If you thought a St. Louis summer was buzzing, just wait until the fall. As the cozy vibes start to settle in, St. Louis’ diverse neighborhoods and organizations continue to create spaces that foster community and joy. From intimate theater experiences and concert tours to beloved festivals and high-energy sporting events, St. Louis' rich culture continues to shine.
Delight in the rhythms of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra at Forest Park. Step back in time at the Renaissance Fair. Experience the thrill of NASCAR. And immerse yourself in the powerful stories told at The Black Rep.
With these events and more, September in St. Louis isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience.
Gateway Cup
September 4 to September 7
Get ready for a weekend of full-throttle racing as the best professional and amateur cyclists in the U.S. smoke the circuit across four race days in four of St. Louis’ most beloved neighborhoods. Each day of the 40th annual Gateway Cup features a slate of races including amateur and kids races before the main event – the men’s and women’s professional races. Each “criterium format” race features a one-mile circuit with multiple laps, sharp tactical turns and intense pack riding as riders battle for position in the peloton. Gripping and endlessly entertaining, spectators can watch who clinches the top spot during riveting races in Lafayette Square, Francis Park, The Hill and Old Town Florissant.
Japanese Festival
September 5 to 6
One of the largest and longest-running festivals of its kind in the United States, the Japanese Festival returns to the Missouri Botanical Gardens for another celebration of Japan’s rich culture. Taiko drumming, Bon Odori festival dancing, martial arts, and candlelight walks in the Japanese Garden are just a few of the festival’s highlights. Perfect for an outing with family or friends, the Japanese Festival is one of the city’s staple fall events.
Pints & Pages
September 7
Grab your current or favorite read and head over to Schlafly Bottleworks for Pints & Pages. This casual event, held on the first Monday of every month, is like a book club without the pressure of deadlines, assigned readings or required discussions. Tuck into whatever you’re reading at the moment – poetry, novels, magazines, e-books, or even audiobooks – and enjoy an hour of quiet reading time. Afterward, stick around for an optional social hour where you can mix and mingle with other avid readers. A chill way to usher in the week, make progress on your annual reading goal at Schlafly with a brew in hand!
AC/DC: Power Up Tour 2026
September 8
One of the greatest rock bands of all time is bringing their electrifying energy to St. Louis. The Dome at America’s Center is set to roar this September as AC/DC takes the stage for their Power Up World Tour, in promotion of their seventeenth album of the same name. The legendary band will set the stadium stage ablaze with a setlist featuring iconic hits spanning their five-decades-long career. Taking the stage in St. Louis are Angus Young on lead guitar, Brian Johnson on vocals, Stevie Young on rhythm guitar, Matt Laug on drums and Chris Chaney on bass.
The Color Purple
September 9 to 27
Since its inception in 1976, The Black Rep has been committed to producing and reimagining work br Black playwrights, while also creating opportunities for Black voices and increasing representation on stage. The “Theatre of Soul” will continue to fulfill this mission during its 50th season, which debuts with a production of The Color Purple (The Musical) at Edison Theatre at Washington University. The acclaimed stage adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the story of Celie as she discovers her power and voice while navigating life, love and identity in the face of adversity. A powerful celebration of hope, love and community, The Color Purple sets the stage for a milestone year at The Black Rep, which features productions of The Colored Museum (January 6-24), Purpose (February 3-21), For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf (March 3-28), and Gem of the Ocean (May 12-30).
NASCAR Cup Series
September 13
The NASCAR Cup Series is roaring into St. Louis with the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway. St. Louis NASCAR fanatics will have the unique opportunity to experience the heart-pounding excitement and high-octane action of this thrilling race as the best stock car racers battle it out on the 1.25-mile oval track for first place. The entire weekend is a can’t-miss event, starting Sept. 11 with Ballpark Village’s NASCAR Fan Fest in the Together Credit Union Plaza, complete with live music, exclusive giveaways and interactive activations. Then, ahead of the main event, the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (Sept. 12) takes over the raceway. Finally, Confluence Music Festival (Sept. 11-13) rounds out the dynamic weekend with performances from Busta Rhymes, Ying Yang Twins, Tim Dugger and The Blues Brothers.
Bluey's Big Play
September 12 to 13
Back by popular demand, Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad return to The Fabulous Fox for another two days of giggles, games and adventures! Bluey’s Big Play is a stage adaptation of the acclaimed Australian children’s program, featuring beautifully crafted puppets that bring the Emmy Award-winning animated series to life! For even more kid-friendly fun, check out Disney on Ice’s Find Your Hero shows at Chaifetz Arena (Sept. 25-27).
2026 St. Louis Renaissance Festival
September 12 to October 25
Travel back in time to the 1520s and the village of Petite Lyon for the St. Louis Renaissance Festival’s 28th season. Come and find what strikes you merry, as armored jousting, aerial acts, lively music, fine foods and vintage wares invite unbridled joy, imagination and whimsy! The festival will take place on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 12 to Oct. 25, as well as Mon., Oct. 12, and festivities will proceed, rain or shine.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Forest Park Concert
September 16
Ring in the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s 26/27 season with family and friends at the annual Forest Park Concert on Art Hill. A beloved tradition for STL music lovers, this free concert sets the tone for an exciting concert season at Powell Hall. Find a spot on Art Hill, sit back and enjoy the music, from classical tunes to modern scores. The event also includes fare from local food trucks for purchase and a stunning firework show. If you like what you hear, join the celebration during Opening Weekend at Powell Hall on Sept. 26 and 27.
Tennessee Williams Festival
September 17 to 27
One of the greatest American playwrights of the 20th century, the life and timeless work of Tennessee Williams is the inspiration for the aptly named Tennessee William Festival at the Berges Theatre. For the first time in the festival’s history, the landmark production will expand beyond the artistic scope of Williams’ work to explore “The Tennessee Williams Effect.” A phrase coined by festival organizers, this year’s event aims to highlight the influence and legacy of Williams’ work on the generations of playwrights that came after him. This year's headlining production is The Appropriate by two-time Tony Award-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Regarded as one of America's most important contemporary playwrights, Jacobs-Jenkins is a leading voice in modern theater. As part of the festival, Jacobs-Jenkins will present "A Conversation with Branden Jacobs-Jenkins" on Sept. 19 at the St. Louis County Library's Clark Family Branch. Driven by the goal to enrich the cultural life of St. Louis by celebrating the work and influence of Tennesee Williams through art and education, the Tennessee William Festival is a rich expression of St. Louis’ prevailing love of the theater.
The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race
September 18 and 19
A hallmark event of a St. Louis fall, the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race is not to be missed. The Balloon Glow at Emerson Field kicks off the event on Friday, featuring music at the Main Stage, food trucks, concessions, games and activities. As the sun sets, the giant balloons light up the night sky, glowing like fireflies in a scene that is nothing short of magical. On Saturday, the balloons are launched and the race officially begins! Event organizers say that it’s the oldest and best-attended hot air balloon race in the world. Our advice? You might want to scope out the perfect viewing area for you and your family ahead of time.
Saint Louis Art Fair
September 18 to 20
An explosion of color in the streets of Clayton, the Saint Louis Art Fair attracts a variety of high-quality artists and enthusiastic art lovers. Peruse work from nearly 200 visual artists from across the country, eat delicious food from some of St. Louis’ best restaurants, and enjoy live performances from local artists.Whether you’re looking for a piece of fine art to fill your home or a fun-filled day in the sun, you should stop by this three-day event.
Romeo & Zooliet
September 24 to October 11
The family-friendly, animal-centered rendition of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet returns to Forest Park’s Shakespeare Glen this fall! In Romeo & Zooliet, the Montagues are herbivores and the Capulets are carnivores. The story follows Romeo, a prairie dog, and Juliet, a grizzly bear, as they navigate biological differences in an effort to become best friends. This vibrant production features stunning puppetry by world-renowned Michael Curry Design, known for its work on Broadway’s The Lion King and Frozen. St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s production of Romeo & Zooliet is the last of the 2026 season, which also includes Shakespeare in the Park’s production of The Tempest and the TourCo production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which concludes on Sept. 6 in Lafayette Park.
May’s Night Market
September 25
Expertly curate your closet, jewelry box and home at May’s Night Market! A celebration of creativity, sustainability and community, this beloved vendor fair is back at City Foundry STL for the second time this year. Shop one-of-a-kind finds including art, jewelry, clothing, skincare, home goods from more than 50 local and regional vendors. A local DJ will provide the tunes for the night, while hungry patrons can grab a bite at the Foundry’s food hall.
Tower Grove Pride
September 26 and 27
For Tower Grove, Pride isn’t only celebrated in June. The neighborhood’s annual Pride festival returns to Tower Grove Park for another year of community-powered festivities, including the People’s Joy Parade, outdoor story time, arts and crafts and live entertainment on three separate stages. Tower Grove Pride aims to support and promote social justice for every disadvantaged and undervalued community.
