Fall has arrived in the Chicago suburbs, and with it comes a lineup of festivals perfect for getting outside before the weather turns. From parades and polka to scarecrow contests and pumpkin-spiced everything, here are five events worth marking on your calendar this September and October — most of them free to attend.
Key takeaways
- The bigger picture: The Chicago suburbs have five fall festivals worth adding to the calendar this September and October, with most offering free admission.
- Highlights include Oktoberfest celebrations in Elk Grove Village and Mount Prospect, the parade-anchored Autumn in the Park Festival in Palos Park, and the St. Charles Scarecrow Festival, featuring over 85 handmade scarecrows to vote on.
- Why this helps: With most events free to attend and only extras like food or drinks costing money, families can plan a full weekend of fall fun without spending much.
Autumn in the Park Festival at Palos Park Village Green
Sept. 18-19, 2026
- Address: 8901 W. 123rd St., Palos Park
- Cost: Free admission
This fall event includes a parade at 1 p.m. Saturday, music, artisan and food vendors, kids crafts, face painting and more.
Elk Grove Village Oktoberfest
Sept. 18-19, 2026
- Address: 164 Lions Drive, Elk Grove Village
- Cost: Free; purchase tickets for food and drinks
Enjoy traditional German food, games and activities, live music and so much more at the annual Elk Grove Village Oktoberfest Celebration.
Fall Festival/Oktoberfest
Sept. 18-19, 2026
- Address: Intersection of Emerson Street and Busse Avenue, Mount Prospect
- Cost: Free, fees for food
Oktoberfest features live entertainment with authentic German food and drinks. Plus, a kids spot on Saturday.
Family Fall Fest at The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace
Oct. 3, 2026
- Address: 511 S. York St., Elmhurst
- Cost: Free admission
Bring the family out to The Depot for Safety Town trick-or-treating plus fall festivities, games and food trucks.
St. Charles Scarecrow Festival
…