By Kelly Maue
This summer has been a scorcher. Do we all agree it’s time to show it the door? Let’s usher in fall with some cool, crisp air and all the festivities that come with it.
The Fall Equinox will make the season official on September 22. That’s the day when the sun crosses directly above Earth’s equator from north to south, and day and night are nearly equal in length. This marks the start of the period when daylight starts to shorten and nights grow longer. Earth’s Northern Hemisphere begins to tilt away from the Sun, resulting in less direct sunlight and shorter days.
Many traditions celebrate the changing of the seasons. We give thanks for the harvests by cooking seasonal feasts and bring the outdoors inside by switching springtime décor to an autumn theme (think pinecones, gourds, and wreaths). Firepits and bonfires are another way to enjoy fall, adding a little extra light to evenings as days grow shorter.
As the weather changes, autumn is an ideal time to get out and about. From fairs to festivals, here are some options in the St. Louis area:
The Best of Missouri Market returns October 9-11. Head to Missouri Botanical Garden (MOBOT) in the city of St. Louis, where tents and food trucks will showcase 150 vendors with locally handcrafted items, jewelry, food, wine, spirits, native plants, herbs, and more! Plus, enjoy a great atmosphere with live music and family fun, including the popular Kids’ Corner. Shop and support local at The Best of Missouri Market, a beloved fall bucket list activity for over 30 years. Watch our video about the market here.
Just east of MOBOT (across the street), the Historic Shaw Art Fair takes place the same weekend, October 10th & 11th. Wowing art lovers since 1993, this fine art fair returns with 120 artists and their works. Stroll down the tree-lined Flora Place at Tower Grove Avenue and enjoy ceramics, digital art, drawing/pastels, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and wood/metal work. Watch our video on the Historic Shaw Art Fair here.
Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest operating public market west of the Mississippi and is open year-round. Over 100 vendors gather at 730 Carroll Street to sell everything from meat and produce to fresh flowers, spices, baked goods, and unique local crafts. The tradition dates back to 1779, when traders and farmers first came to sell their goods.
For a more traditional autumn vibe, Brookdale Farms in Eureka hosts its Fall Festival that continues through November 8th. Wagon rides, a pumpkin patch ripe for picking, and the largest corn maze in St. Louis will keep families busy for hours.
Or if mayhem or marauding are more your style, all scallywags and maidens can make their way to the St. Louis Renaissance Festival in Wentzville’s Rotary Park. Adventure awaits – including jousts, axe throwing and more. Now through October 25!
And couldn’t we all use a laugh right about now? Check out the Flyover Comedy Festival November 11-15. Primarily in the Delmar Loop, nearly 50 events will feature approximately 150 comedians. From national headliners to the rising stars, this event puts the funny in “flyover country.”
Don’t miss that sweet spot before winter rolls around. Celebrate the fall season and enjoy the fair or festival that’s right for you.
