As summer gracefully fades into autumn, New York City comes alive with an array of vibrant festivals and events in September, each celebrating the unique culture and creativity of the metropolis. From lively street fairs and food festivals to art showcases and performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The city transforms into a bustling hub of activity, inviting locals and visitors alike to partake in the festive atmosphere that marks the onset of the fall season. Join us as we explore five must-visit events that capture the essence of NYC in September, ensuring a memorable experience filled with fun, flavor, and excitement.
Fall Festivals & Events
Honoring the former Bishop of Benevento, San Gennaro, the Feast of San Gennaro is one of the city’s most beloved celebrations, with a wide variety of food, fun, and entertainment that is fit for the whole family. The Feast of San Gennaro takes place annually in Little Italy. You can find the festival on Mulberry St. between Canal St. and Houston St., Hester St. between Baxter St. and Center St., and Grand St. between Baxter St. and Centre Market Place. The festival runs from September 12-22, 2024.
The 61st New York Film Festival is a much anticipated annual event that features a lineup of critically acclaimed movies. There is something for every film fan to enjoy. There are feature films, a selection of short films, animations, and documentaries shown throughout the festival. Screenings will take place at Manhattan’s Lincoln Center, showcasing works from seasoned filmmakers as well as fresh new talent from around the world. The festival is scheduled to take place from September 27-October 13, 2024.
New York City is known for its significant events that the whole city can enjoy, and OktoberFest is one of the biggest celebrations around. This annual festival takes place at Pier 15 in the Financial District, and you’re always guaranteed to have a good time. Happening now, you can stop by Watermark and get a taste of the best German food the city has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of thick beer, juicy brats or giant pretzels, you’ll find it at this fall staple. from September 14-October 27, 2024. Smaller Oktoberfest celebrations take place around the city as well, like the celebration at Loreley Beer Garden that’s taken place since 2003! The festivities take place from September 12-October 31, 2024 with daily beer specials, Saturday keg tappings, and Sunday pig roasts. 
Experience the enchantment of the New York Botanical Garden at the upcoming event, Wonderland: Curious Nature. Inspired by the classic tale of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this whimsical celebration invites guests to explore a world where nature and fantasy converge. As you stroll through the reimagined gardens, you’ll discover a lively collection of contemporary art and exhibits that challenge your views on reality. Each location along your journey presents delightful surprises, from whimsical tea parties to breathtaking displays of Victorian flowers that spark the imagination. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with beloved characters from the story while viewing the Garden through Alice’s captivating lens. Embrace the adventure and let your senses come alive—there’s no better setting to dive into a realm of curiosity and wonder than at this extraordinary event, running until October 27, 2024.
Nothing says fall more than a farm trip. Luckily, the Queens County Farm Museum has the answer for you. This farm in Queens offers plenty of fall fun, but nothing is more exciting than The Amazing Maize Maze. This three-acre corn maze is filled with clues and puzzles you need to solve in order to make it to the other side. Once you finish, the farm offers different activities for you to enjoy and make your visit last even longer. You can take a hayride, pick pumpkins or buy vegetables from the farmstand. The maze is open Friday through Sunday each week from September 7-October 26, 2024.
