After the close of the beloved Summertime Chicago season, the fun continues with a hearty lineup of activities that celebrate the flavors, scents and visions of fall. As the red and gold foliage reflects off the lake, the city vibrates with autumn fests, apple-picking events, Oktoberfest and artisan … [Read more...] about Chicago Free and Cheap Fall Events
Chicago festivals
Reeling International Film Fest
The second-oldest LBTGQ+ film festival in the country kicks off with an exciting line-up of international features, documentaries and shorts with the 44th annual Reeling International Film Festival on September 17-27, 2026. The rich diversity of the queer community is showcased during the … [Read more...] about Reeling International Film Fest
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up
Wander through pumpkin patches and corn mazes while you enjoy the season at Chicago's largest fall festival, Jack's Pumpkin Pop Up, located near Goose Island, from September 19 to November 1, 2026. The large number of all-ages festivities make Jack's one of the most popular fall excursions. … [Read more...] about Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up
Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest
Enjoy Fall fun with apple-inspired food, drinks and artisan goods at the beloved Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest, October 2-4, 2026. Celebrate the new season with a bounty of edible goodness. Midwest farms will be serving up fresh apples and related dishes and local restaurants and … [Read more...] about Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest
Chicago Live! at Navy Pier
Witness the excitement of Chicago's extensive performing arts scene during the sixth annual Chicago Live! festival on September 19-20, 2026. Navy Pier will host free, non-stop performances featuring Chicago dance, theater, music and more during the two-day event. The breadth of Chicago's … [Read more...] about Chicago Live! at Navy Pier
St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest Chicago
It's that time of year when Chicagoans welcome the autumn season with polka, lederhosen and lots and lots of beer. St. Alphonsus Church celebrates its 24th annual Oktoberfest Chicago in the West Lakeview neighborhood with Bavarian food, live music and craft beer tasting on September 25-27, … [Read more...] about St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest Chicago
Destinos Chicago Latino Theater Festival
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month along with Latino theater and dramatic creativity at the ninth annual Destinos: Chicago International Latino Theater Festival for three weeks from September 14 to October 11, 2026, at theaters across the city. The Chicago Latino Theater Alliance … [Read more...] about Destinos Chicago Latino Theater Festival
Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Venues across the Hyde Park, Kenwood and Washington Park neighborhoods will come alive with live jazz during the 20th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival on September 26-27, 2026. Music lovers will enjoy 34 free performances of local, national and international artists at a varied assortment of … [Read more...] about Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Riverwalk Fall Fest
Experience the beauty of the fall season with the Chicago River as the backdrop at the Island Party Hut Fall Fest on the Chicago Riverwalk on Saturdays, September 19- October 31, 2026. Enjoy autumn festivities like hay rides on the river, pumpkin patches and eating apple cider donuts along … [Read more...] about Riverwalk Fall Fest
Ravenswood ArtWalk
The Ravenswood Corridor community celebrates 24 years of the annual Ravenswood ArtWalk on September 12-13, 2026. The area's artists, manufacturers and brewers will welcome visitors during the ArtWalk with a host of fun and interactive activities. Unfolding from Lawrence to Irving Park St.. … [Read more...] about Ravenswood ArtWalk
Free Printers Row Lit Fest
The Midwest's largest literary festival returns to Chicago's historic Printer's Row neighborhood in the South Loop with the Printer's Row Lit Fest on September 12 and 13, 2026. Stretching out over five blocks, the Printers Row Lit Fest features more than 100 booksellers, interactive … [Read more...] about Free Printers Row Lit Fest
German-American Oktoberfest
Celebrate German heritage in all its forms, including dance, music, and food at the annual German-American Oktoberfest on September 11- 13, 2026, in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. The opening ceremony kicks off at 8 pm on September 11. Commemorating 100 years of German traditions, the … [Read more...] about German-American Oktoberfest
