September has arrived, and around here that means festival season. The air turns crisp, downtown streets fill up, and every town seems to have a tradition worth putting on the calendar. Whether you are a longtime local or you are thinking about making the move, here is where I would head over the next several weeks. As always, double-check details locally before you go, since dates can shift.
Chicago South Suburbs
Frankfort Fall Festival
September 5 through 7 on Kansas and White Streets in downtown Frankfort. This is one of the most recognized arts and crafts festivals in the region,with more than 300 artisans, carnival rides, live entertainment, food,and a great sense of community. Admission is free with a $10 donation for parking. It is a wonderful way to spend Labor Day weekend.
Tinley Park Oktoberfest
September 18 through 20 at Harmony Square in downtown Tinley Park. After a year away,the Chamber of Commerce brings this tradition back with Oktoberfest food, live entertainment,and family fun. A lively way to welcome fall.
Tinley Park Park District Fall Fest
Typically the first weekend of October,which this year lands on October 3 and 4,at McCarthy Park in Tinley Park. The Park District hosts this family favorite each fall,with fall-themed activities for all ages. Check its calendar for exact times before you head over.
Orland Park Great Pumpkin Party
Sunday, October 4,hosted by the Village of Orland Park. Expect pony rides, hayrides, marshmallow roasting,trunk-or-treat,games,and pumpkin fun for the kids. A perfect family afternoon to welcome October.
Frankfort Park District autumn programming
The district typically hosts seasonal favorites like Thriller at Main Park in mid-October. If you have kids who love a bit of Halloween spirit, keep an eye on the district calendar for exact dates.
Northwest Indiana
Crown Point Wine Fest
Saturday, September 12 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Bulldog Park. Wines from Northwest Indiana, Southwest Michigan,and Chicagoland, paired with food from local restaurants. A lovely evening out in one of the area's most popparks.
Lofs Lions End of Summer Bash
Also on Saturday, September 12 in Crown Point. A community gathering that wraps up the season with family-friendly fun. Check local listings for the exact location,and hours.
Apple Fest at Garwood Orchards
September 12 and 13,in the Region area. A classic orchard weekend: apple picking, crisp cider,and fall flavors that make you appreciate the season.
Dyer Fall Family Fest
Saturday, September 19. A family-friendly celebration that marks the change of season,and a nice chance to wander Dyer with the community.
World Cultural Fest
Sunday, September 20,in the Northwest Indiana area. A celebration of the region's diversity with music, food,and crafts. Check local event listings for the exact venue.
Valpo Brewfest
Saturday, September 26 at Central Park Plaza in Valparaiso. A craft beer sampling event that draws a great crowd,and a fun evening out along the way.
Fair Oaks Farms Oktoberfest
September 26 and 27,in the Region area. Family-friendly fall fun: harvest activities,farm favorites,and Oktoberfest flavor at one of Northwest Indiana's favorite destinations.
Grand Masters Reception at Meyer's Castle
Saturday, September 26 at Meyer's Castle in Dyer. An elegant evening event with local flavor. Check the organizer's page for tickets,and details.
Dyer Halloween Parade
Sunday, October 18. A small-town traditionthat brings the whole community out. Check local listings for the route,and start time.
Make the most of the season
One of the things I love most about this area is how each community marks the seasons with its own traditions. Whether you are wandering the artisans at the Frankfort Fall Festival, sampling cider at Garwood Orchards, or catching a hayride at the Great Pumpkin Party in Orland Park, these small experiences are what make a place feel like home.
If you are thinking about moving to one of these communities, I encourage you to visit during one of these events. Walk the streets. Talk to the vendors. Sit on a bench,and watch the neighborhood go by. That is when you will know if it feels right. And when you are ready, I am here to help you make that next move confidently. You Can With Joanne!™