The iconic Gateway Arch may serve as a portal to the American West, but it also presides over a rich cultural landscape. Once again, fall's return brings these exciting events and activities to the communities around St. Louis homes for sale.

Top Fall Events and Activities Around St. Louis

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert on Art Hill - St. Louis, MO

Address: Art Hill, 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

Did you know that our city's distinguished orchestra is second only to the New York Philharmonic as the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States? Be there when they kick off a new season with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert on Art Hill. 

Showtime is 7 p.m. on Wednesday, 9/16, and admission is free.

Great Forest Park Balloon Race & Glow - St. Louis, MO

Address: Emerson Central Fields, 5265 Wells Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

History and entertainment meet at the 54th annual Great Forest Park Balloon Race & Glow. In 2000, the event was inducted into the permanent collection of the Library of Congress due to its status as a Local Legacy and "meaningful and significant American community tradition." 

The two-day event includes additional activities such as:

• DJ and dance party
• Kids' area
• Midway with games, concessions, and food trucks

Mark your calendar for Friday, 9/18 and Saturday, 9/19. Admission is free.

Saint Louis Art Fair - Clayton, MO

Address: Downtown Clayton, Clayton, MO 63105

After more than 30 years, the Saint Louis Art Fair continues to promote the full spectrum of creative endeavors in a convenient location near Clayton homes for sale. In addition to visual arts, the fair spotlights performing arts, including music, dance, and theater.

This year's performers include:

• Clarkson School of Irish Dance
• Katie Hubbard Band
• Dp the Magician

The fair runs Friday, 9/18 through Sunday, 9/20. Admission is free.

Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis - University City, MO

Address: COCA, 6880 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63130

While his name is taken from a neighboring state, the namesake of the Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis spent many of his formative years in Missouri. The 11-day event, taking place not far from University City homes for sale, celebrates and explores Williams's enduring legacy and influence.

Here are some intriguing highlights of this year's festival:

• St. Louis debut of the stage play Appropriate
• Scholar panels
• Pop-up collaboration with the Provincetown Tennessee Williams Festival

TWStL runs from Thursday, 9/17 through Sunday, 9/27. Visit the website for full schedule and ticket prices.

St. Charles Oktoberfest - St. Charles, MO

Address: Frontier Park, 500 S. Riverside Drive, St. Charles, MO 63301 

Need another reason to view St. Charles homes for sale? Plan your trip around the free 2026 St. Charles Oktoberfest, being held Friday, 9/25 through Sunday, 9/27.

This festival is packed with more than just beer and brats:

• Antique car show
• Wurst Race Ever 5K/10K
• Wiener Dog Derby

Soulard Oktoberfest - St. Louis, MO

Address: Soulard Market Park, 730 Carroll St.,  St. Louis, MO 63104

Just minutes from the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the Soulard Oktoberfest serves as an appropriate tribute to the proud German heritage surrounding Soulard homes for sale. The free event features two days of live music and authentic German food, plus a wine garden and beer stands.

Don your lederhosen and dirndls on Friday, 10/9, and Saturday, 10/10.

Planning Your St. Louis Fall Outings

Are the fall events around St. Louis family-friendly?

Many are. The Great Forest Park Balloon Race, Saint Louis Art Fair, St. Charles Oktoberfest, and Soulard Oktoberfest all offer activities or entertainment suitable for families, although some individual areas or activities may have age restrictions.

Which St. Louis fall events are free?

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert on Art Hill, Great Forest Park Balloon Race & Glow, Saint Louis Art Fair, and general admission areas at both St. Charles Oktoberfest and Soulard Oktoberfest are free to attend.

When do fall events around St. Louis usually begin?

Major fall events start in September and continue into October. This year's calendar includes the Concert on Art Hill on September 16, the Great Forest Park Balloon Race September 18–19, and Soulard Oktoberfest October 9–10.

St. Louis: A Home for All Seasons

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