10 TRENDS | Fall-Inspired Saturdays in September
- Glancer Magazine
- Aug 31
- 3 min read
Here’s What’s Trending–
Saturdays in September are made for exploring! All month long, the suburbs come alive with festivals, markets, music, art, food, and family fun. From charming small-town celebrations to lively street fairs, every Saturday offers a chance to discover something new, taste something delicious, and connect with the community.
#1 | Glen Ellyn Wine Festival
SEPTEMBER 20
GLEN ELLYN–Raise a glass at the 5th Annual Glen Ellyn Wine Festival by kō-zē, happening September 20th at the Lake Ellyn Boathouse. This lakeside gathering features a wide selection of wines to sample, delicious bites, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for an afternoon with friends. Enjoy the charm of Glen Ellyn while discovering new favorites at this beloved community event.
#2 | Geneva Festival of the Vine
SEPTEMBER 5-7
GENEVA–September 6th transforms downtown Geneva into a culinary and vinous playground at Festival of the Vine. Local restaurants serve small plates under a festive “Flavor Fare” tent, complemented by live music, arts & crafts, and complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. It’s the 43rd year of this beloved celebration of food, wine, and fall charm.
#3 | Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival
SEPTEMBER 7
DOWNERS GROVE–The Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival celebrates 47 years this year! The festival is held in the middle of award winning, historic downtown. Enjoy the boutiques, cafes and a children’s art area that will complement the high caliber of art that will be present at the show. The show is open from 10am-5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
#4 | The Rustic Fox Fall Open House
SEPTEMBER 6 (Carol Stream) & 13 (North Aurora)
CAROL STREAM/NORTH AURORA–With hundreds of indoor boutiques and 100+ pop-up ovendors, you’ll find everything from Halloween decor to cozy fall fashion. Get ahead of the game and score unique goodies for everyone on your list! Enjoy live music, tasty food trucks, wine, coffee, and even some mocktails to sip while you shop. Plus, it's all FREE—entry and parking included!
#5 | Hispanic Heritage Festival
SEPTEMBER 13
NAPERVILLE–On Saturday, September 13 at Central Park, the Naperville Sister Cities Foundation presents its 5th annual Hispanic Heritage Festival. Celebrate culture with lively music, cuisine, performances, and community spirit in a family-friendly downtown setting.
#6 | Pioneer Days in Glen Ellyn
SEPTEMBER 28
GLEN ELLYN–Travel back in time during the 40th Annual Pioneer Day at Stacy’s Tavern Museum in Glen Ellyn on September 28th. This free, family-friendly event runs September 28 from 1 to 4:30 PM and brings history to life with costumed interpreters, hands-on activities, and demonstrations of early settler life. It’s an afternoon of discovery, community, and fun for all ages.
#7 | Cantigny Fall Fest in Wheaton
SEPTEMBER 27
WHEATON–September 27h, Cantigny Park hosts its annual Fall Fest at this 500-acre gardens estate. Expect vibrant flower displays, seasonal décor, workshops, and fall-themed strolling in one of Wheaton’s most scenic settings.
#8 | Autumn Fair at Peck Farm Park
SEPTEMBER 20
GENEVA–Celebrate Saturday, September 20th at Geneva’s Peck Farm Park with the Autumn Fair. Expect pony rides, a petting zoo, pumpkin picking, food tents, and fall-themed family fun from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Most activities are free or low-cost—perfect for a crisp, happy autumn outing.
#9 | Glen Ellyn Backyard BBQ
SEPTEMBER 6
GLEN ELLYN–Savor smoky flavors and toe-tapping tunes at the Glen Ellyn Backyard BBQ, downtown on September 6. Illinois’s largest amateur BBQ contest pairs mouthwatering ribs with live music, craft vendors, and a kid-friendly Piglet Playland. The event supports Bridge Communities, helping local families in need. Grab your friends and vote for your favorite barbecue while enjoying this family-friendly street festival.
#10 | Kane County End of Summer Flea Market
SEPTEMBER 6
ST. CHARLES–Held the first weekend of each month, celebrate the season at the Kane County Fairground End of Summer Flea Market. Browse hundreds of vendors offering art, crafts, food, collectibles, and more. It’s the perfect way to welcome fall with unique finds and local flavor.
