The “official” first day of fall may not be for several more weeks, but let’s all get real with ourselves and admit that summer is over. School is back in session, nights are getting cooler, and Starbuck’s Pumpkin Spice Latte is back in the rotation.
There’s no need to despair, though. There’s still plenty of fun to be had as we head into autumn! From free festivals to fireworks to local competitions and beyond, STL is bursting with fall activities. If you’re a local – or you’re planning a stay at the best boutique hotel in St. Louis this season – we have a wide variety of local events for you to look forward to…
Saint Louis Art Fair | September 6 – 8
Blast over to Clayton for the annual St. Louis Art Fair to enjoy beautiful fall weather and fabulous art! The three-day exhibition of visual and performing arts features work from over 180 nationally recognized artists.
St. Louis Symphony Free Concert in Forest Park | September 12
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra will be performing classical favorites at the base of Art Hill in Forest Park at this free live concert! The concert kicks off at 7pm on September 12 and closes with a dazzling firework display. Grab your best picnic blankets and get ready for a magical evening in the park.
Great Forest Park Balloon Race and Glow | September 20 – 21
This 50+ year tradition is a city-wide favorite. Organizers even claim that it’s the oldest, best-attended hot air balloon race in the world. Catch the Balloon Glow (and a fireworks finale) at Central Fields in Forest Park on the evening of September 20th and return to the park for the race on the 21st. This is a St. Louis tradition you don’t want to miss!
(Pro tip: If you’d rather avoid the crowds and enjoy the spectacles from afar, the Moonrise rooftop terrace bar offers a fantastic view of the fireworks on the evening of September 20, and of the balloons in flight during September 21’s race.)
South Grand Fall Fest | September 21
The sixth annual Fall Festival will take place in the South Grand Business District on September 21. Come to enjoy local goods, live music and fun family activities. This event has something for everyone to enjoy – and it’s free!
Q in the Lou | September 27 – 29
For BBQ lovers, this is the best way to celebrate fall! Q in the Lou is a three-day festival featuring top BBQ chefs from all over the country, who will be cooking up the best barbecue in America, and live music. Come to Kiener Plaza in downtown STL to get saucy.
Strange Folk Festival | September 27 – 29
The 13th annual Strange Folk Festival is bringing local indie crafters together during the weekend of September 27 – 29. Peruse the offerings of over 100 arts-and-crafts vendors, participate in DIY activities, and enjoy live music and delicious local food.
Life Outside Festival | September 21
The annual Life Outside festival from Great Rivers Greenway offers a wide array of outdoor activities for all ages. Come learn about different ways to spend more time outside and participate in activities like tree climbing, kayaking lessons, birdwatching, rock climbing, nature crafts and activities for kids, walks and bike rides throughout the day and more.
Oktoberfest 2019 | September 27 – 29
Just as good as the one in Germany! Urban Chestnut Brewing and other local brewers team up every year for this classic fall fest featuring live music, German food, authentic bier, and lots of games and activities. This annual St. Louis Oktoberfest is held at Urban Chestnut’s Midtown Brewery & Biergarten.
The Best of Missouri Market | October 4 – 6
Head to the Missouri Botanical Garden for the annual Best of the Missouri Market, where you can enjoy live music and a kids’ corner with crafts and fall activities. Adults will enjoy perusing over 120 food producers and crafters offering baked goods, handcrafted items, custom jewelry and more
Grove Fest | October 5
This is another STL tradition and favorite for fall! The Grove neighborhood is one of the city’s most fun and funky areas, and this festival is returning for its 12th year to showcase all the amazing offerings from local Grove businesses. This event is family friendly and will feature a kids zone, street performers, live music, food and drinks, crafts, fashion, and art for purchase from local vendors.
The 5th Annual Brew in The Lou | October 12
Brew in the Lou showcases St. Louis’ best beer, wine, spirits, coffee and good eats. Best of all, proceeds benefit 35 local schools. Come for live entertainment, art vendors, the “People’s Choice” Home Brew, Bratwurst and Chili Contest, special food exhibits, and much more.
Prost! | October 12
What’s better than a beer on a fine fall day? On October 12, guests of this festival can enjoy a self-guided tour through the streets of Historic Downtown Maplewood to sample the best of St. Louis’ regionally produced beers. In addition to tastings, the festival’s participants offer food pairings and chats with local brewers.
Believe it or not, these are just SOME of the awesome events going down in the city as fall kicks off. Almost everyday, you can find festivals, parties, activities or events happening all over St. Louis!
Of course, we at The Moonrise like to offer our own ways for our guests to take advantage of the season. Sip a handcrafted cocktail in the autumn air at our rooftop garden bar, or bring your four-legged friends with you for a weekend getaway at our pet-friendly hotel. If you’re planning a party of your own, take it to new heights by hosting in one of our unique event spaces! No matter what way you choose to enjoy fall with us, you’re guaranteed to have a stellar season.
Plan your trip today! Mark those calendars, make an Eclipse Restaurant reservation, or book a stay with us!