Best Oktoberfests, Festivals, Block Parties & Halloween Events to Celebrate Fall in Philly

Photo via Brauhaus Schmitz on Facebook

Crisp weather and shorter days bring a variety of autumn events to Philadelphia. From yacht parties to haunted beer gardens and festivals galore, this fall season has plenty to see and do throughout the city.

Photo by Drink Philly

Open Streets West Walnut - Every Sunday in September
Head down to Rittenhouse Square on Sundays in September and stroll the streets car-free. Bars will be extending their seating for al fresco dining and drinks, and the streets will be filled with music, activities, and performances for the whole family. Don’t forget to get in a little bit a retail therapy–shops will be offering up specials and sales!

Photo by Drink Philly

Mexican Independence Day - September 15
Celebrate Mexican Independence–sponsored by Don Julio! Enjoy traditional Mexican food and patronize local vendors and artisans at this free celebration at the Blue Cross RiverRink. The Grito de Independencia ceremony will be taking place on stage and celebrations with mariachi music, family-friendly activities, and cultural dances will go on into the evening. Don’t miss the fireworks finale!

Photo by Stephen Lyford

USA vs. The World: An Oktoberfest Celebration - September 21
Human Robot is hosting their annual USA vs The World Oktoberfest celebration. Food trucks and food vendors will accompany the giant beer festival accompanied by live polka bands and DJs. Compete in stein hoisting, yodeling, and a Milk Tube Race. 21+ only. 1700 Block of Germantown Ave, 12 PM - 5:30 PM.

Photo via Brauhaus Schmitz

Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest on South Street - September 21
Grab a bierstein and get into the swing of fall with Brauhaus! This annual Oktoberfest event will take over the 700 block of South Street with a smorgasbord of German food, live dancing and music, and beer flowing all day long. Grab a VIP ticket for extra swag, or pay as you go.

Photo by Aaron Raysor

Drink Philly's Black Attire Boat Party - September 27
The time has come again for Drink Philly’s swankiest booze cruise of the year! Join us for a three-hour soiree in your sleekest all-black attire and enjoy a dinner buffet and open bar with beer, wine, and a specialty vodka cocktail. Dance the night away to beats by a live DJ while you enjoy the skyline view and fresh fall air with your faves. Tickets available now!

Photo by Drink Philly

Fishtown Feastivale - September 28
Returning for its third year, Fishtown Feastivale will fill Frankford Avenue with some of the city’s greatest eats. From fresh Bavarian pretzels to succulent barbecue–not to mention craft beers and cocktails–there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This year’s festival also includes over 50 retail vendors, as well as a variety of carnival games for a true summer send-off.

Photo by Drink Philly

Oktoberfest at Yards - October 5
Yards Brewing will transform into a Munich beirgarten with German-inspired beers brewed specially for the event. Tickets include a one liter stein to fill with the beer of your choice, plus a full day of events and entertainment. Play traditional German games or even compete in a stein holding competition. Come in your finest lederhosen for a chance to win best dressed!
 

Photo by WitchCraft Beer Festival

WitchCraft Beer Festival - October 11 & 12
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, the spirits at WitchCraft may be calling your name. Located at the Paradise Lake Campground in Hammonton, NJ, this enchanting festival consists of a tent village filled with brewmasters, cocktail maestros, fortune tellers, and so much more.

Photo via Brauhaus Schmitz

Armory Oktoberfest by Brauhaus Schmitz - October 11 & 12
Celebrate Oktoberfest in style as the 23rd Street Armory is transformed into an authentic German beer and brat bash. The hall will be adorned with traditional decor including tables and benched imported right from Germany. In addition to German food and liters of beer, you’ll enjoy live music, dancing, and entertainment.

Photos via Eastern State Penitentiary on Facebook

Halloween Nights Beer Garden at Eastern State Penitentiary - September 20 - November 9
Take a break from the frights of Eastern State’s haunted houses at the Fairchance Beer Garden. This slightly spooky drink destination is located on the remains of the penitentiary’s baseball field and offers snacks and suds with a side of history. Enjoy a drink while learning more about Eastern State with museum programming that includes audio tours and exhibits.

Photo by Drink Philly

Philly Cider Week - October 19 - 27
Back for its 6th year, Philly Cider Week aims to celebrate orchard-driven ciders with a special focus on Pennsylvania-grown apples and cideries. Learn about the history of cider as well as its agricultural importance while you sample crisp, refreshing brews from across the region.
 

Photo by Aaron Raysor

Drink Philly's Halloween Boat Party - October 25
Take a spooky cruise down the Delaware at our annual Halloween boat party! Dance the night away to jams from a live DJ, and enjoy a three-hour open bar and dinner buffet in your Hallow’s Eve best.

Photo by Drink Philly

Philly Magazine Whiskey Festival - November 7
Philly Mag takes over Lincoln Financial Field for a spirited festival of epic proportions! The even will be stocked with over 250 spirits including whiskey, rum, vodka, cordials and craft cocktails to enjoy. Enjoy live entertainment, kick back in the lounge, and nosh on delicious eats from some of Philly’s finest restaurants.

Photo via Flickr user jetalone

Beaujolais Nouveau Day - November 21
Treat yourself to one of Burgandy’s most celebrated red wines! Released annually on the third Thursday in November, this seasonal red will be in the spotlight at several bars in Philly.
McGillian’s: $6 glasses of beaujolais nouveau and ½ price french onion soup.

Event Date: 09/15, 09/21, 09/27, 09/28, 10/05, 10/11, 10/12, 10/25, 11/07, 11/21
Event Time: Various Times
Location: Various Locations
Price: PAYG or Ticketed
Type: Beer, Block Party, Breweries, Drink Philly Signature Events, Festival, Holiday, Neighborhoods, Oktoberfest, Parties