2024 St. Louis Fall Festivals and Events Guide Tuesday July 30, 2024 Share AttractionsDiningEntertainmentFamily-FriendlyHistoryMusicOutdoorsShoppingSports By Rachel Huffman In St. Louis, fall means mild weather, gorgeous foliage and a slew of things to do. From art to apples and beer to music, our area’s fall festivals and events have it all. So, whether you live here or you’re planning to visit, make sure you add these to your calendar. Jump to: September October November December September Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum Tour | Photo by Mark Hermes Fall History Tours Select dates in September, October and November In September, October and November, Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum will host two-hour walking tours of the grounds against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage. Led by master guides, the tours will cover two miles, spotlighting beautiful features of the Level III Arboretum as well as intriguing historical figures buried among the trees. Spoiler alert: American explorer William Clark, writer and artist William S. Burroughs and co-founder of Anheuser-Busch Adolphus Busch are among the most notable people buried here. Saint Louis Art Fair September 6 to 8 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 – plus, some of St. Louis’ best restaurants that keep everyone energized. 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. Art Outside September 6 to 8 Art, like beer, brings people together, which inspired Schlafly Beer to establish Art Outside in 2004. Hosted at Schlafly Bottleworks in Maplewood, the festival aims to raise awareness and appreciation of art and music created in the St. Louis community. This year’s festival will feature more than 60 artists who specialize in photography, woodwork, textiles, watercolor, mixed media and more. Stop by with your family and friends and get to know art without pretense. Oktoberfest at Grant’s Farm September 6 to 8 and 13 to 15 Oktoberfest returns to Grant’s Farm this September, celebrating the attraction’s German heritage. Included with free general admission, the event will feature cold beer served in commemorative steins, alongside traditional German food, live German music, enthusiastic German dancing and access to the farm’s animals. Grant’s Farm | Photo by McElroy Fine Art Photography Outlaw Music Festival September 8 The Outlaw Music Festival featuring Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan and John Mellencamp comes to Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre – St. Louis on Sept. 8. Million Dollar Drag Race September 10 to 14 World Wide Technology Raceway gives travelers a million reasons to visit the Midwest. From Sept. 10 to 14, the premier racing facility will host the 29th annual Mickey Thompson Million Dollar Drag Race. World Wide Technology Raceway will continue the race’s long-running tradition while elevating the racer experience. Balloon Glowdeo September 13 and 14 Balloons, bulls and barrels come together for Brookdale Farms’ Balloon Glowdeo. Witness an exhilarating rodeo followed by a magical balloon glow at this special event. Before the hot air balloons light up the night, visit with the farm animals, bounce around the inflatable playgrounds, grab a bite to eat and enjoy a live outdoor concert. After the glow, you’ll also be treated to a beautiful firework display. The Taste of Black St. Louis September 13 to 15 As the largest Black-owned food festival in the Midwest, The Taste of Black St. Louis celebrates vibrant Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, marketplaces and nonprofits in the St. Louis region. Experience their delicious dishes and gourmet goods among community members in Memorial Plaza. Fright Fest | Photo courtesy of Six Flags St. Louis Mosaics Fine Art Festival September 13 to 15 Running along historic North Main Street in Saint Charles, the Mosaics Fine Art Festival features diverse artwork from artists across the country, alongside a pet pavilion and a children’s village with a creation station. The festival aims to stimulate the community and educate children and adults in art and its ability to enhance their lives. Greentree Festival September 13 to 15 Located in Kirkwood Park, the Greentree Festival is a time-honored tradition. The first festival was held in 1961 to replace drought-stricken trees in Kirkwood, and today, the family-friendly event features a parade, food, entertainment, arts and crafts and contests. While you’re here, check out the folklife festival, where more than 40 artisans – from blacksmiths to frontierspeople and rope-makers to weavers – demonstrate their crafts and display their wares. Fright Fest September 13 to November 3 With thrills both on and off the rides, Fright Fest at Six Flags St. Louis is one of the spookiest fall festivals and events of the season. During the day, family-friendly attractions abound, but in the evening, all the creatures that go bump in the night haunt the park. Expect rides in the dark, haunted houses and other scare zones. Chuseok Korean Harvest Festival September 14 Held at Half Moon Circle in Tower Grove Park, the Chuseok Korean Harvest Festival centers on traditional Korean performing arts. Highlights of the program include a martial arts demonstration, K-pop dance competition and traditional foods. Attendees can also participate in visual art demonstrations focused on the Korean alphabet, calligraphy and crafts; try on hanbok, a traditional clothing of the Korean people; and learn about the traditional Chuseok charye table setting. Music at the Intersection | Photo by Phillip Hamer Music at the Intersection September 14 and 15 Music and heritage meet at this festival in the Grand Center Arts District. Every rendition of Music at the Intersection, a civic-led effort presented by the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, encompasses multiple stages set up in streets and green spaces throughout the neighborhood. St. Louis-based musicians as well as national acts spanning musical genres, including blues, jazz, soul, R&B, rock ‘n’ roll and hip-hop, come together in this celebration of St. Louis’ musical, cultural and artistic legacy. In 2024, headliners will include psychedelic soul band Black Pumas; 10-time Grammy Award-winning queen of funk Chaka Khan; rapper Big Boi of Outkast; New Orleans trombonist and trumpeter Trombone Shorty; five-time Grammy Award-winning jazz bassist Esperanza Spalding; funk group Lettuce; two-time Grammy Award-winning 24-year-old jazz singer Samara Joy; and St. Louis rapper Chingy. Music at the Intersection will also feature Ferguson-born trumpeter Keyon Harrold, a three-time festival alumnus, in a new role as artist-in-residence. St. Louis Renaissance Festival September 14 to October 27 Armored jousting, aerial acts, lively music, fine foods, vintage wares, friends new and old and plenty of cheer make up the St. Louis Renaissance Festival. Come and find what strikes you merry! The festival will take place on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 14 to Oct. 27, as well as Mon., Oct. 14, and festivities will proceed, rain or shine. St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Forest Park Concert September 19 At this annual concert in Forest Park, you can experience the sounds of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra under the stars. 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. The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race September 20 and 21 One of St. Louis’ most idyllic events, The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race is not to be missed. Event organizers say that it’s the oldest and best-attended hot air balloon race in the world – so you might want to scope out the perfect viewing area for you and your family ahead of time. This September, the event will also feature food trucks, music, wagon rides, a firework show and more free family fun! Forest Park Concert | Photo courtesy of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Brookdale Farms Fall Festival September 20 to October 27 Nestled among the rolling hills of Eureka, Brookdale Farms has everything you need to satisfy your fall cravings. During its fall festival, pick the perfect pumpkins for classic jack-o’-lanterns, navigate the largest corn maze in St. Louis and take a hayride or board the cow train. In between bites of kettle corn, you can also pet furry farm animals, embark on low-ropes courses, play life-size board games and test your skills on a mechanical bull. Yee-haw! Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival September 21 Twenty-two years ago, a small but passionate group of music lovers organized the first Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival simply because they wanted to throw a great party in their historic downtown. Today, the award-winning festival is one of the most family-friendly music festivals in the world. Offering nonstop jazz and blues on two stages, the free event showcases St. Louis’ most talented performers – plus, area restaurants. Street entertainers also amuse spectators with balloons, juggling and face-painting. Join the party as people from one to 100 get on their feet and shake their groove thang in the streets! South Grand Fall and Music Fest September 21 Now in its ninth year, the South Grand Fall and Music Fest includes more than 70 retail vendors and community organizations, along with ongoing entertainment in Ritz Park. During the fall festival, South Grand businesses will offer varying specials, discounts and entertainment, and tucked between the storefronts, you’ll find themed activities, games and crafts. There will also be a face painter and a balloon artist on site. Fall Farm Festival September 21 Let’s get back to the land. The Fall Farm Festival at The Magic House gives kids – and adults – a chance to meet local farmers and learn about where and how their food is grown. The whole family can also sit in a real tractor, participate in agricultural activities and meet real farm animals in the museum’s Play Garden. Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race | Photo by Justin Barr Saint Charles Oktoberfest September 27 to 29 Dust off your lederhosen and join the ultimate celebration of German culture. Returning to Frontier Park from Sept. 27 to 29, Saint Charles Oktoberfest promises to immerse attendees in a Bavarian wonderland filled with traditional cuisine, varied beers and family-friendly activities. The legendary Obenheimer Express Band as well as the original Milwaukee Glockenspiel will perform throughout the weekend, along with other live entertainers, and over-the-top activities include a Sam Adams Stein-Hoisting Competition and a Wiener Dog Derby. This is one of our fall festivals and events that you won’t want to miss! Eureka Days September 27 to 29 Round up your family and friends and head to Eureka for its annual, shall we say, party. Eureka Days features carnival rides, a parade, a beer garden, a firework show and more. Think you’ve got skills? Sign up for the kickball tournament or enter the chicken wing eating contest. Evolution Festival September 28 and 29 In its second year, Evolution Festival will once again shake things up in St. Louis. Held in Forest Park, the genre-bending music festival features live music infused with a bold beverage experience – plus, food that spotlights traditional recipes as well as cutting-edge trends from some of the most recognizable pitmasters in the Show-Me State. In 2024, top musical acts will include The Killers, Beck, Jane’s Addiction, Billy Idol, Nile Rodgers and Elle King. Evolution Festival | Photo by Lexie Alley Tower Grove Pride September 28 and 29 Bringing a rainbow of colors to Tower Grove Park, this community-powered Pride festival features the People’s Joy Parade, outdoor story time, arts and crafts and live music on two separate stages. Tower Grove Pride aims to support and promote social justice for every disadvantaged and undervalued community. Zootoberfest September 28 to 29 and October 5 to 6 On crisp fall days, head to the Saint Louis Zoo for a family-friendly Oktoberfest. Enjoy the animals, exhibits and attractions alongside German-inflected foods and drinks at the local landmark. There will also be special activities for kids such as arts and crafts. Fright at the Museum September 28 to October 26 For those who revel in the extraordinary, Fright at the Museum promises a month of entertainment that will send shivers down your spine. The one-of-a-kind Halloween festival at City Museum features heart-pounding performances that push the boundaries of possibility, alongside carefully curated exhibits with artifacts that defy explanation and specimens that challenge imagination. When you need a break, step into the shadows of the Vampire Bar, where darkness and decadence intertwine. Here, you can sip crimson elixirs that transport imbibers to another realm of intoxicating ambiance and tantalizing flavors. Coven & Cauldron, a dimly lit pub, boasts a different world of magic, mystery and macabre, enticing curious mortals and practicing witches with enchanting brews. Fright at the Museum takes place from Sept. 27 to Oct. 27, giving you ample time to experience all the thrilling and captivating oddities and curiosities that City Museum has to offer this fall. October St. Louis Bourbon Festival | Photo courtesy of St. Louis Bourbon Festival Eureka Scarecrow Festival October 1 to 31 During the month of October, you’ll see some new faces around Eureka. As part of the Scarecrow Festival, artfully designed scarecrows will strike regal poses in front of local businesses, schools, churches and homes. While you’re in town, embark on The Great Scarecrow Hunt for a chance to win cash prizes. Best of Missouri Market October 4 to 6 This fall, the Best of Missouri Market returns to the Missouri Botanical Garden with more than 120 vendors, offering unique handicrafts, locally produced foodstuffs, bespoke jewelry, native plants and more. Kids will also have a blast with fall-inspired activities such as sustainable pumpkin decorating. Grovefest October 5 Dance, eat and party in the streets of The Grove during this annual festival praised for its diversity. Live music, interactive art, street performers, drag shows and a bubble bus set the tone, so you know that you’ll have a good time. Want to immerse yourself in the fun? Enter the pizza eating contest, best mustache and beard contest or Fear Factor competition. Historic Shaw Art Fair October 5 and 6 A stone’s throw from the Missouri Botanical Garden, the Historic Shaw Art Fair takes place at the intersection of Flora Place and Tower Grove Avenue. The fine art fair features 130 artists showcasing their ceramics, paintings, pastels, photography, sculptures, woodwork and more. Food and music will supplement the art. Endangered Wolf Center | Photo by Michelle Steinmeyer St. Louis VegFest October 6 Since the first VegFest in 2018, the St. Louis event has grown to include approximately 70 vendors, expert speakers, entertainment, yoga and kid-friendly activities. This year, St. Louis VegFest will be held at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park, where you can learn more about the thriving vegan community in the region. St. Louis VegFest 2024 will happen rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Oktoberfest in Soulard October 11 and 12 Home to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Biergarten, Soulard is the perfect location for Oktoberfest. The free, family-friendly event honors St. Louis’ German brewing traditions with multiple beer stands serving the best suds around town. Attendees can also enjoy traditional German food, a wine garden and live music. Oktoberfest in The Grove October 11 to 13 Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. will celebrate Oktoberfest at its bierhall in The Grove. Festivities will feature live music on two stages, hearty German food and plenty of beer – plus, a stein-holding competition. Prost! Brew in the Lou October 12 Local, regional and national craft breweries, distilleries and wineries will come together for the 12th annual Brew in the Lou. Hosted by Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA), the festival in Francis Park also boasts food tastings, live music and local vendors. Admission includes unlimited beer, wine, spirits and food (while supplies last), along with a commemorative tasting glass, and proceeds benefit LESA’s 35 member schools, which serve approximately 9,500 students and 500 educators. Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Mural | Photo courtesy of Great Rivers Greenway St. Louis Bourbon Festival October 18 The St. Louis Bourbon Festival returns to the historic Lemp Mansion as part of St. Louis’ lineup of fall festivals and events. This year’s festival footprint doesn’t stop there, though. It has expanded along four city blocks with additional spaces to explore along Cherokee Street and Demenil Place. Imbibers can enjoy more than 500 whiskies from around the world, along with live music, street performers, food trucks and a scotch and cigar patio. Bottoms up! Wolf Fest October 19 Party with the pack at the Endangered Wolf Center! During Wolf Fest, you can embrace the best aspects of the unique attraction. After visiting wild canids such as red wolves, Mexican wolves, painted dogs and fennec foxes during an open house-style tour, you can enjoy food trucks, live music and kids’ activities with the whole family. Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration October 19 Mary Meachum and her husband, Reverend John Berry Meachum, were staunch abolitionists who dedicated their lives to educating and freeing enslaved people. On the night of May 21, 1855, Mary attempted to help a small group of enslaved people cross the Mississippi River, from St. Louis to Illinois, where slavery was outlawed. At least five enslaved people were caught, and Mary was arrested and charged in criminal court for assisting the “fugitives.” In 2001, the National Park Service recognized the site of the escape – which is now included in the Mississippi River Greenway – as part of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Every year, the Great Rivers Greenway celebrates the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing with a reenactment at the site. This year’s theme will explore the confluence of the past and the present as told through the story of a St. Louis family’s resistance to enslavement and the perspectives of young local artists today. The free community event also includes food, drinks, children’s activities, local artists and makers, live music from various eras and skits that showcase historical scenes from Black communities in St. Louis. St. Louis Beer Fest October 19 More than 40 local and national breweries will come together for the St. Louis Beer Fest. There will be 120 beers available, and admission includes unlimited samplings as well as access to all the exhibits at the Saint Louis Science Center. Saint Louis Dance Theatre | Photo by Pratt + Kreidich Fall Colors Expedition October 19 and 20 Join Big Muddy Adventures on a breathtaking journey through the Missouri River Valley via canoe. This overnight expedition will cover 30 miles of the Missouri River, including incredible views of fiery fall foliage – plus, riverside tent camping, meals and snacks. You don’t need paddling experience, but participants must be 18 or older. Saint Louis Dance Theatre Fall Concert October 24 to 27 To open its season, Saint Louis Dance Theatre will present a collection of stunning works by cherished artists of varied generations. Following his 11-year tenure as artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Robert Battle will share his beloved duet Unfold set to “Depuis Le Jour” performed by legendary opera singer Leontyne Price. The program will feature the 1942 solo Chaconne by dance pioneer José Limón, who blends the formal austerity of the traditional Mexican dance with the powerful emotion of the music. And audiences will be among the first to see world premieres by Saint Louis Dance Theatre artistic director Kirven Douthit-Boyd and renowned guest artist Jamar Roberts, described by Dance Magazine as “a choreographic voice of uncommon force and originality.” Apple Butter Festival October 26 and 27 Attracting more than 100,000 visitors every year, the Apple Butter Festival is the largest event in Kimmswick. While participants can enjoy the small-town ambiance, live entertainment and between 500 and 600 food, drink and craft vendors, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes, too. On Friday, the Kimmswick Historical Society gathers to peel and prepare the apples. Then, before dawn on Saturday and Sunday, the apples are cooked in a kettle over a wood-burning fire until the fragrant spread is thick enough to seal in jars. After one taste of the apple butter, you’ll want to stock your pantry with the indulgence. November Laumeier After Dark | Photo courtesy of Laumeier Sculpture Park Cherokee Street Jazz Crawl November 2 The 12th annual Cherokee Street Jazz Crawl will bring music and dance to every corner of the thoroughfare. Featuring blues musicians and swing dancers alongside marching brass bands and racks of vintage clothing, the celebration is free, except for the grand finale at The Golden Record. Laumeier After Dark November 2 For one night only, Laumeier After Dark gives the public a unique opportunity to explore Laumeier Sculpture Park. The annual event features temporary art and light installations from local artists as well as illuminations of the sculpture park’s most iconic sculptures. Laumeier After Dark also includes a night market with local makers, food and beverage vendors and live music. St. Louis International Film Festival November 7 to 17 This year marks the 33rd annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival. The festival showcases cutting-edge features and shorts from around the world, many of which will receive their only exposure in St. Louis. Flyover Comedy Festival November 14 to 16 Three days. Forty events. More than 100 comedians. The Flyover Comedy Festival is an annual comedy invasion of St. Louis featuring stand-up comedy showcases; improvisation workshops and performances; and sketch and storytelling shows. This year, Patton Oswalt and Tig Notaro will headline the festival, performing at Stifel Theatre on Fri., Nov. 15. December Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street Missouri Bridal & Wedding Expo December 1 Signed, sealed, delivered! The Missouri Bridal & Wedding Expo returns to the America’s Center Convention Complex on Dec. 1. The convention features an amazing selection of wedding professionals who can help you find the perfect gown, reception venue, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination and so much more. Admission is free with online registration or $10 at the door. Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street December 7 Do you prefer prints? You’re going to love the Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street. One of the largest print sales in the Midwest, the annual event showcases more than 100 local and regional artists whose work embodies the ever-evolving creative energy of the neighborhood. Expect everything from lithographs to woodcuts and etchings to screen prints. Add a cup of hot coffee or a tasty taco and this might become a new tradition for you. Share
