Fall is here, bringing with it a season full of exciting activities to enjoy! This year promises to create unforgettable memories with events and activities perfect for the whole family. From fall festivals to colorful foliage, there's something for everyone to experience and cherish. We've gathered a list of the top fall events that capture the spirit of the season, ensuring there's no shortage of fun and festivity. Whether you're looking to indulge in seasonal treats, explore local farms, or simply enjoy the crisp autumn air, we encourage everyone to dive into the autumn fun and make the most of this festive time of year.

Lebanon Fall Fest - October 5^th

Historic downtown Lebanon, located just 25 miles from St. Louis, is the perfect destination for a delightful day trip to experience Lebanon’s annual Fall Fest. This charming event boasts over 150 handmade crafts and art booths, offering a unique opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts or add a touch of autumn magic to your home decor. As you stroll through the rustic brick streets, you'll be enchanted by the festive atmosphere, live music, and delicious seasonal treats. Whether you're sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking in the vibrant fall colors, Lebanon’s Fall Fest promises a memorable outing for the entire family. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of the season in this quaint and welcoming town.

Harvest Frolic Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site Lerna IL - Sept 28^th – 29^th

Celebrate the arrival of autumn at the historic Lincoln Log Cabin’s Harvest Frolic. Immerse yourself in the charm of a 19th-century farm and experience life as it was hundreds of years ago. Spanning two days, from September 28th to 29th, this festival offers a unique glimpse into the past with numerous artisans showcasing their skills in spinning, pottery, ropemaking, blacksmithing, and much more. Best of all, this event is free and open to the public, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities without any cost! Don’t miss this opportunity to step back in time and discover the rich heritage and crafts of Illinois’ pioneer history.

Highland’s Sip and Shop - September 29th 

Nestled in downtown Highland, the historic Olde Wicks Factory hosts an incredible fall event featuring up to 90 vendors throughout the venue. This indoor extravaganza offers an array of delights, including delicious food, live music, and bars serving holiday-themed specialty drinks to amplify the seasonal spirit. It's the perfect way to kick off the autumn festivities, providing a cozy and vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy. Don't miss out on this fantastic event and the chance to celebrate the season in style!

Ecktoberfest:  October 5^th – 27^th (every Saturday and Sunday in October)

Wagon rides, live entertainment, festival foods, children's activities, and much more await you at Eckert’s Ecktoberfest. There will be something for the whole family to enjoy, ensuring everyone is entertained for hours. Classic fair food, such as funnel cakes, caramel apples, and more, will tempt your taste buds as you wander through some of the most lovely property in Downstate Illinois. Don't miss out on this wonderful event—get out and enjoy the fall weather and activities with friends and family.

Columbia’s FestiFall - October 6^th

Rejoice in the crispy fall air at Columbia’s Festifall in Metter Park, where you can discover unique merchandise, savor delicious food and drinks, and enjoy specialties like German potato pancakes. This vibrant event also features a rock-climbing wall provided by Upper Limits, a renowned rock-climbing gym, offering an exciting challenge for kids. The fun doesn't stop there—there's a dedicated kid zone filled with inflatables and numerous activities to keep the little ones entertained. Mark your calendar and join us for one of Columbia’s favorite events, where there's something for everyone to enjoy as we welcome the fall season in style.

Maeystown Oktoberfest - October 6^th

 Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn at Oktoberfest in Maeystown, featuring arts, crafts, antiques, and food. More than 60 artisans, crafters, dealers, and numerous food stands will be showcased during the festival. You can also expect demonstrations of blacksmithing, photography, woodworking, and a country store. There will be a variety of food, including popcorn, bratwurst, apple butter, and much more. Village specialty shops will be open throughout the day, so you can check out some of Maeystown’s unique stores while you are there.