8 Early Fall Events Worth Putting on Your Calendar Near St. Louis (2026)

There's something about early fall in St. Louis that makes us want to spend as much time outside as possible.

The mornings start getting cooler, pumpkin-flavored everything makes its return, festival season kicks into high gear, and weekends suddenly fill up with family traditions.

Whether you're looking for a fun date night, a family outing, or an excuse to enjoy the beautiful weather, here are a few early fall events and activities worth adding to your calendar.

1. Apple Picking at Eckert's Farms

Nothing says "welcome to fall" quite like a trip to Eckert's.

Apple picking season typically begins in late summer and continues through early fall, making it one of the area's favorite family traditions. While you're there, don't skip the bakery, country store, or a fresh apple cider donut before heading home.

It's the kind of outing that turns into an annual tradition before you even realize it.

2. Stuckmeyer's Farm Fall Festival

As summer winds down, Stuckmeyer's Farm transforms into one of the best family destinations in South County.

Depending on when you visit, you'll find pumpkins, corn mazes, wagon rides, farm animals, seasonal treats, and plenty of activities for kids of all ages.

It's an easy way to spend an afternoon making memories close to home.

3. Shaw Nature Reserve

Early fall is one of the prettiest times to explore Shaw Nature Reserve.

The temperatures are more comfortable, the trails are beautiful, and the first hints of fall color begin appearing throughout the gardens and woodlands.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning walk or a place to enjoy nature with the family, it's always worth the drive.

4. Grant's Farm

Before the weather gets chilly, take advantage of a late-summer visit to Grant's Farm.

The animal encounters, tram ride, and beautiful grounds make it a favorite for families with young children, and early fall often means slightly smaller crowds than the peak summer season.

It's one of those St. Louis attractions that's fun no matter how many times you've been.

5. Fenton Community & Farmers' Market

If your Thursdays are free, don't overlook the Fenton Community & Farmers' Market.

Held on Thursday evenings through the growing season, it's a wonderful place to grab fresh produce, browse local vendors, enjoy live music, and soak up one of those perfect late-summer evenings before autumn officially arrives.

6. Missouri Botanical Garden

As the weather cools, the Missouri Botanical Garden becomes even more enjoyable.

Late summer flowers give way to the first signs of fall, making it a beautiful place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Whether you're walking through the Japanese Garden, exploring the Climatron, or simply enjoying the scenery, it's one of those places that's worth visiting in every season.

7. Sazón Latin Food Festival (September 27)

If you love trying new foods, this one belongs on your calendar.

Held at 4 Hands Brewing Company on Sunday, September 27, the Sazón Latin Food Festival celebrates the incredible flavors of Latin America with food vendors serving dishes from the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Add in live music, family-friendly activities, and a festive atmosphere, and you've got a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Come hungry—you'll probably leave wishing you had room for one more empanada.

8. Greentree Festival in Kirkwood (September 18–20)

For more than six decades, Kirkwood's Greentree Festival has been one of the region's favorite fall traditions.

Held in Kirkwood Park, this free, family-friendly festival features live music, local artisans, delicious food, a hometown parade, kids' activities, demonstrations, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful September weather. Whether you're visiting for the first time or it's an annual tradition, there's something for every age to enjoy.

Bring a lawn chair, wear comfortable shoes, and plan to stay awhile.

Don't Forget the Simple Things

Some of our favorite fall traditions don't require tickets at all.

• Grab coffee and take a walk through your favorite park.
  
  
• Visit a local farmers market one last time before the season winds down.
  
  
• Decorate the front porch with mums and pumpkins.
  
  
• Open the windows and enjoy the cooler air.
  
  
• Spend an evening around a backyard fire pit.
  
  
• Take a scenic drive through Jefferson County or along the Great River Road.
  
  

Sometimes the best memories are the simplest ones.

Fall Goes Fast—Enjoy Every Weekend

One of the reasons we love living in the St. Louis area is that there's always something happening.

From apple picking and farm festivals to cultural events and quiet afternoons outdoors, early fall offers so many opportunities to enjoy the season before the busy holiday months arrive.

So grab your calendar, pick a few favorites, and make the most of these beautiful weekends while they're here.

And if you have a favorite annual fall tradition that we should add to our list, we'd love to hear about it. Some of the best local recommendations come from our clients, friends, and neighbors.