Who doesn’t love fall? The season is especially enjoyable in the Gateway City, and our list of top things to do in St. Louis this October gives you a plethora of ways to enjoy it. And because we couldn’t settle on only 15 upcoming events to highlight this October, we expanded this month’s list to include 18 events. From more hair-raising haunts to light-hearted autumnal activities, there’s something for everyone.
Still in need of fresh ideas? Check out our events calendar for endless inspiration.
Fright Fest
Until November 1
Thrills at Mid-America Adventure – formerly Six Flags St. Louis – are continuing well into the fall with Fright Fest. The spooky event is guaranteed to have you screaming on and off the amusement park’s rollercoasters, as ghosts and ghouls run amok during these fear-filled evenings. As soon as the sun sets, the ghastly creatures that go bump in the night disperse across the park’s chilling haunted attractions and hair-raising scare zones, delivering screams around every corner. Other highlights include live entertainment, seasonal bites and sips, and your favorite rides operating in the dark. If you like your spooky season activities without the scares, head to Boo Fest. This family-friendly daytime event features trick-or-treat trails, fall-themed photo ops, character meet and greets, and kid-friendly entertainment.
2026 Art Hill Film Series
October 2 and 9
Join the St. Louis Art Museum as Art Hill is transformed into the city’s largest cinema during the Art Hill Film Series. A St. Louis tradition, SLAM is hosting two nights of films, food, and music. This year’s featured films are Men in Black (Oct. 2) and Young Frankenstein (Oct. 9). Both screenings are free, open to the public and do not require tickets or prior registration.
Brewed Arts Festival
October 3
Whether you prefer tea, beer or kombucha, all brewed bevs are celebrated at Cherokee Street’s Brewed Arts Festival. Stretching one mile long, Brewed Arts Festival features tastings of locally-made brews, live performances, indoor and outdoor painting, shopping and more.
Canine Carnival
October 3
Join the Animal Protective Association of Missouri for its biggest event of the year! The 34th annual Canine Carnival celebrates four-legged furry companions with an afternoon filled with adoptable animals, games and activities for both kids and dogs, food trucks, drinks, local vendors, raffles, prizes and live entertainment. Kids and dogs attend the carnival for free, while tickets are required for adults.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 6
Get ready to do the Time Warp with the original Rocky Horror Picture Show cast at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. The iconic film, which is the longest-running theatrical release in film history, is ushering in the Halloween season with the help of Barry Bostwick (Brad Majors), Nell Campbell (Columbia) and Patricia Quinn (Magenta). The show will feature a screening of the original unedited movie with a live shadowcast performance by Flustered Mustard, audience participation and a costume contest.
St. Louis Blues Opening Game
October 8
Despite a strong finish to the 2025-2026 season, the St. Louis Blues just barely missed out on a playoff appearance. But the Blues are back and ready to bring the Stanley Cup to St. Louis for the second time in the franchise’s history. The team will take on the San Jose Sharks during its opening game at Enterprise Center, kicking off what St. Louis sports fanatics hope will be a promising run at championship glory.
Jeff Goldblum
October 9
Experience the suave, effortless charm and musical stylings of Jeff Goldblum at St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The Jurassic Park actor and musician will be accompanied by his band, the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, for a spectacular evening celebrating jazz and America Songbook classics. Perfect for longtime jazz lovers and new listeners alike, Goldblum offers a fresh perspective on timeless favorites, combining them with his trademark wit, warmth and style. Goldblum’s SLSO appearance is one of many shows and tours stopping in St. Louis including Bryson Tiller (Oct. 3, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater), Malcolm Todd (Oct. 4, Saint Louis Music Park), Sombr (Oct. 30, Enterprise Center), Cash Money and No Limit (Oct. 23, Enterprise Center), and Jonny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds (Oct. 6, Enterprise Center).
St. Louis Bourbon Festival
October 9
Hosted by the St. Louis Bourbon Society, the St. Louis Bourbon Festival returns to the storied Lemp Mansion and expands its reach across four city blocks of Cherokee Street and Demenil Place. The area’s historic buildings are transformed into eerie tasting lounges and wicked VIP haunts, where brave imbibers can enjoy more than 500 whiskies from around the world. Libations aside, this frighteningly fun festival also features spine-tingling live music, street performers, food trucks and a scotch and cigar patio round out this ghoulishly-good event. Don your finest fall attire and embrace the Halloween vibe at this spooky soirée where bourbon flows and spirits rise.
Soulard Oktoberfest
October 9 & 10
Grab a stein filled to the brim with cold beer and shout, “prost!” during Soulard Oktoberfest at Soulard Market Park. Enjoy German fare including juicy bratwursts, chewy pretzels, and other classic eats before washing it all down with a German brew. The vibrant event also features live music – from polka to brass bands – and the beloved Stein Holding Competition. This family-friendly festival is one of St. Louis’ many Oktoberfest celebrations this month, which also includes the Urban Chestnut Oktoberfest (Oct. 2-4), Oktoberfest at Westport Plaza (Oct. 16-17) and Old Town Oktoberfest in Eureka (Oct. 11).
St. Louis VegFest
October 11
St. Louis VegFest returns to the World’s Fair Pavillion in Forest Park for another celebration of all things plants and animals. The festival, which had its inaugural event in 2018, has grown to include approximately 70 vendors, expert speakers and entertainers and thousands of attendees, all advocating for a way of living that excludes animal cruelty. Enjoy “veganized” versions of non-vegan eats, yoga sessions, kid-friendly activities and learn more about the thriving vegan community in the region. St. Louis VegFest 2026 will happen rain or shine, so dress accordingly!
Witches Walk
October 15
Don your best witch’s garb and prepare to cast spells in the whimsical streets of Kirkwood during the Witches Walk. The enchanting evening starts at the Farmer’s Market, where you’ll sign in and imbibe with a witch’s brew potion to kick the night off right. Then, convene with fellow witches as you saunter through Downtown Kirkwood and explore participating businesses and merchants for a chance to win fabulous prizes. Stop in local restaurants for spooky specials on delicious food and drinks before singing along and dancing to live music at the Farmer’s Market. An evening filled with fun and a hint of magic, the Witches Walk is a delightfully spooky time!
Delish on Delmar
October 16
Combining the best parts of a block party, food festival and makers market, Delish on Delmar celebrates the legacy of Delmar Boulevard. Shop for unique gifts at Craft Alliance and Third Degree Glass Factory, encourage your kiddo’s creative whims at MADE for Kids and stay energized with bites from local staples such as Florentin, Fountain on Delmar and Steve’s Hot Dogs. See you on the street!
Shaken & Storied: History on the Rocks
October 16
On a sunny Sunday in May 1917, socialite Clara Bell Walsh hosted the who’s who of St. Louis at the first recorded cocktail party in the Central West End. Over 100 years later, the Missouri History Museum is honoring this legacy with a new signature event, Shaken & Storied. The spirited evening will vibrantly fuse history and mixology, challenging St. Louis’ leading cocktail bars and mixologists to craft libations inspired by artifacts from the Missouri Historical Society Collections. Guests will be transported through time with each sip, unearthing the stories behind each drink while also enjoying appetizers, entertainment, dinner and a celebratory atmosphere that raises a glass to the enduring spirit and community of St. Louis.
GalaxyCon
October 23 to 25
Get ready to hang out with fellow fans at America’s Center as you celebrate your favorite comic books, anime, video games, TV, movies and more at GalaxyCon. This year’s ultimate three-day festival of fandom features appearances from George Takei, Brian Austin Green and the cast of Twilight.
Saint Louis Dance Theatre Fall Series
October 23 to 25
The Saint Louis Dance Theater opens its 2026-2027 lineup with a dynamic trio of world premiers by esteemed creatives: STLDT Artistic Director Kirven Douthit-Boyd, Princess Grace Award winner (2019) Rena Butler and Princess Grace Award winner (2023) Keerati Jinakunwiphat. This soul-stirring series sets the tone for the remainder of STLDT’s 16th season titled, “Elements of Harmony.” This season’s theme is slated to delight all senses through a diversity of tones, textures and viewpoints, highlighting the richness of our collective experience.
Apple Butter Festival
October 24 and 25
Nothing says fall like a homemade, decadently spiced batch of apple butter. A mutual love for this thick, caramelized applesauce is at the core of the Apple Butter Festival in Kimmswick, which attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year. Throughout the two-day festival, visitors can enjoy the small-town ambiance, live entertainment and between 500 and 600 food, drink and craft vendors, including those selling the deliciously decadent treat. Don’t leave the festival without a jar (or two) of the Kimmswick Historical Society’s homemade apple butter to enjoy smeared on toast, swirled into yogurt, or added to baked goods. After one taste of the apple butter, you’ll want to stock your pantry with the indulgence.
Jack’s Lighted Trail
Until October 30
Don’t let spooky season pass you by without attending Jack’s Lighted Trail at Eckert’s Farm. A delicious dose of everything you love about the fall and Halloween, this nighttime walkable trail transforms the farm into a whimsical wonderland of glowing pumpkin sculptures, thematic photo opportunities and festive surprises around every corner. The festive evening has something for everyone, including deliciously themed cocktails for 21 and older visitors at the Spook-Easy.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller Live
October 31
This Halloween, City Winery is bringing Michael Jackson’s iconic Thriller LP to life during a spine-tingling Soul Brunch. Dance to the infectious groove of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Billie Jean,” “Beat It” and the chilling title track – performed by an all-star band – while you savor a chef-crafted brunch menu and close out spooky season. Come in your spookiest costume – dancing shoes and all – and pay homage to The King of Pop!
