Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier.
Photo:
Rattlhed / Wikimedia Commons
September brings the best of both worlds to Seattle. With summer weather still holding strong and early fall arriving, September is perfect for outdoor festivals, neighborhood events, theater productions and enjoying those long, warm evenings before the Pacific Northwest rainy season arrives.
Whether you’re visiting Seattle for the first time, relocating to the area or simply looking for something fun to do this weekend, there are plenty of ways to experience the city. From festivals and live performances to fairs, parks, gardens and family activities, there is always something new to discover.
I’ve put together some of the best things to do in Seattle and around the Puget Sound this month. Think of this as less of a tourist checklist and more of a local guide to finding events, seasonal favorites and fun reasons to get out and explore.
Things to Do in Seattle: September 2026
This guide is updated throughout the month with upcoming Seattle events, festivals and seasonal activities. Event schedules can change, so check the official event website before heading out.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Things to Do in Seattle This September?
Seattle’s September calendar is packed with festivals, performances, fairs and outdoor events. If you’re wondering where to start, here are a few of this month’s highlights:
Join Us!
September in Seattle is where summer and fall meet. The days are still pleasantly warm, but there’s a crispness beginning to creep into the mornings and evenings. Summer crowds start to thin, the first hints of fall color appear, and the city settles into a slightly slower rhythm while there’s still plenty of sunshine left to enjoy.
Mornings are perfect for grabbing coffee and heading to a farmers market, walking along the waterfront, or squeezing in a hike before the weather begins to change. Afternoons can still feel like summer, with plenty of opportunities for boating, exploring a neighborhood, or catching a Mariners game. As evening arrives a little earlier, patios are still lively, but cozy restaurants and neighborhood gathering spots start becoming more inviting again.
September is one of Seattle’s underrated months. You get a little bit of everything: lingering summer weather, the beginning of fall, fewer crowds, and plenty happening around the city. It’s the perfect time to enjoy those last warm days while welcoming the changing season and everything that makes early fall in the Pacific Northwest so special.
September 30–October 6
SAM Gallery Presents: Autumnal
Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle (museum hours)
A new gallery exhibition opens this week at the Seattle Art Museum. Make time to explore the seasonal show alongside the museum’s permanent collection. The exhibition is scheduled to run through November 1, so you can visit any day during this week’s date range.
See Museum Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Thursday, October 1 (10 a.m.–8 p.m.)
Free First Thursday at the Seattle Art Museum
Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle
Enjoy free admission to the Seattle Art Museum on the first Thursday of the month. Browse current exhibitions, join a public tour, or plan a longer visit downtown. Check the museum’s visitor information for reservation guidance and any exhibition-specific details before you go.
Plan Your Visit
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday & Saturday, October 2–3
The Percussion: Sounds from Home
Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle
Seattle Symphony’s bite-sized concerts introduce children ages 0–5 to rhythm and orchestral instruments using familiar everyday objects. It’s a lively first concert experience for young children and their grown-ups. Check the Seattle Symphony’s event page for showtimes and ticket availability.
Event Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday–Sunday, October 2–4
Oktoberfest at Ounces in West Seattle
Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden, 3809 Delridge Way SW, Seattle
This free, all-ages neighborhood Oktoberfest features local beer, food, live oompah music, contests, and family activities. Sunday is Kids’ Day, with activities including face painting and pretzel necklace making. Dogs are welcome; check the organizer’s schedule for daily hours and entertainment.
See the Schedule
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday, October 2 (7 p.m.)
Seattle Reign FC vs. North Carolina Courage
Lumen Field, Seattle
Catch Seattle Reign FC at home for a National Women’s Soccer League match against the North Carolina Courage. Make an evening of it with the stadium atmosphere and Seattle soccer fans. Check the team’s match page for ticket details, entry information, and any schedule updates.
Get Match Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday–Sunday, October 2–4
Ennio Morricone: The Official Symphonic Experience
Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle
Hear the music of Oscar-winning composer Ennio Morricone performed live with the Seattle Symphony. Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon. It’s a chance to experience celebrated film scores in the concert hall; check the venue for ticket availability and final details.
View Concert Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Sunday, October 4 (12–6 p.m.)
CroatiaFest at Seattle Center
Armory Food & Event Hall and Fisher Rooftop, Seattle Center
This free, family-friendly festival celebrates Croatian culture through live music, traditional dance, food, cultural exhibits, and craft vendors. Seattle Center’s annual Festál program brings community traditions to the public, making this a welcoming way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Festival Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Tuesday, October 6 (opening night)
Water for Elephants at the Paramount Theatre
Paramount Theatre, Downtown Seattle (various showtimes)
The touring musical based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel opens in Seattle on October 6. Follow a young man who joins a traveling circus and discovers a new home, unexpected love, and a life-changing adventure. The production is recommended for ages 8 and up; check opening-night showtime and ticket availability before planning.
Showtimes & Tickets
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Fall Is Just Around the Corner
Find the Best Pumpkin Patches in Seattle
Plan a fall outing for pumpkin picking, hayrides, seasonal treats, and family photos. I’ve put together a guide to Seattle-area pumpkin patches to help you find a spot that fits your plans.
Explore Pumpkin Patches in Seattle
Thursday, October 8 (8 p.m.)
Carín León at Climate Pledge Arena
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Spend Thursday evening with regional Mexican music star Carín León on his De Sonora Para El Mundo Tour. The show is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. Check the arena’s event page for ticket and venue information before you go.
Event Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Thursday–Sunday, October 8–11
Early Music Seattle: Crossroads of Time
Multiple venues in Seattle
Explore music and cultural traditions shaped by centuries of exchange at Early Music Seattle’s fall festival. The schedule includes concerts, workshops, conversations, and other events at venues around the city. Check the festival calendar for individual event times, locations, and registration or ticket details.
View Festival Schedule
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday–Sunday, October 9–11
Oktoberfest Northwest
Washington State Fair Event Center, Puyallup
Enjoy three days of German-inspired food, music, dancing, and family activities at this annual fall festival. Sunday is Family Day, and children 12 and under are admitted free. Friday has free admission from noon to 3 p.m.; check the organizer’s site for hours, tickets, and event details.
Plan Your Visit
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday–Sunday, October 9–11
Old Growth Oldtime Music Gathering
Latvian Community Center, Northeast Seattle
Spend a weekend with old-time music, community jams, hands-on workshops, concerts, and a square dance. The gathering wraps up Sunday with a potluck brunch and music. Admission follows a pay-what-you-want model, with donations accepted at the door; check the schedule for locations and times.
See the Festival Schedule
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday, October 10 (7 a.m.)
Puget Sound Heart and Stroke Walk
Fisher Pavilion Block, Seattle Center
Join the community for a morning walk supporting heart and brain health. The walk is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. at Seattle Center. Check the event page for registration, entry information, and updates from the organizers.
Walk Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday–Sunday, October 10–11
Turkfest at Seattle Center
Armory Food & Event Hall, Seattle Center
Explore Turkish and Turkic cultures through food, music, dance, workshops, and a lively marketplace. Turkfest is part of Seattle Center’s Festál series and is free and open to the public. Check the festival page for the latest program details.
Festival Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday, October 10 & Monday, October 12 (7:30 p.m.)
RUSH: Fifty Something Tour
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
See RUSH live at Climate Pledge Arena on two dates during this week’s activity window. Both shows are scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Check the arena’s event page for ticket availability and venue information.
Concert Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Monday, October 12 (4–7 p.m.)
Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Daybreak Star
Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, Discovery Park
Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with an evening of Indigenous art, music, culture, and community connection hosted by United Indians of All Tribes Foundation. The event is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. A free shuttle from the bus stop is planned from 4 to 7:30 p.m.; check the event page for the schedule and updates.
Event Information
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Stay in the Know with My Weekly Seattle Newsletter
If you love staying connected to what’s happening around Seattle, I share my favorite local events, seasonal activities, and insider tips in my weekly newsletter. It’s where I highlight the best things to do, new spots to check out, and can’t miss experiences happening across the region.
Watch the video below to learn more, and subscribe to get my hand picked Seattle recommendations delivered straight to your inbox each week. It’s an easy way to stay inspired, plan ahead, and never miss out on what’s happening around the city.
Get insider tips from a trusted real estate expert with over 20 years of experience—start your homebuying journey today!
Thursday, October 15 (7:30 p.m.)
Doja Cat: Tour Ma Vie World Tour
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Spend Thursday evening at Doja Cat’s Tour Ma Vie World Tour, stopping at Climate Pledge Arena. The concert is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. Check the arena’s event page for tickets, entry details, and visitor information.
Concert Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Thursday, October 15 (4–8 p.m.)
The Studio at SAM: Entertaining Evenings
Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle
Visit the Seattle Art Museum for an evening of music, artist talks, family activities, and hands-on artmaking. You can also relax in the lounge and explore the museum. Check the event page for admission and program details.
Plan Your Visit
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Thursday–Sunday, October 15–18
Fall Harvest at Remlinger Farms
Remlinger Farms, Carnation
Enjoy a fall day at the farm with pumpkin picking, a corn maze, seasonal treats, and family attractions. The regular Fall Harvest Festival runs Friday through Sunday, October 16–18. Thursday, October 15 is a quieter self-guided tour day and requires an advance reservation. Check the farm’s site for tickets, hours, and activity availability.
See Fall Festival Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Friday, October 16 (7:30 p.m. opening)
नेहा & NEEL (Neha and Neel)
Seattle Public Theater at the Green Lake Bathhouse
See the opening performance of this road-trip comedy about a mother and teenage son navigating family, identity, and a college-visiting trip. The production is scheduled to run October 16 through November 8. Check Seattle Public Theater’s calendar for additional performance dates and tickets.
Show Information
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Thursday, October 15 & Friday–Sunday, October 16–18
Haunted Woods at Maris Farms
Maris Farms, Buckley
For a spooky fall outing, Maris Farms’ Haunted Woods is scheduled for October 16–18. On Thursday, October 15, the farm offers “Behind the Screams,” a walk through the haunted sets without the actors on duty. The Haunted Woods experience is recommended for ages 12 and up, and separate tickets are required. Check the farm’s page for times and availability.
Haunted Woods Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday, October 17 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Diwali Community Celebration
Seattle Asian Art Museum, Volunteer Park
Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with artmaking, performances, galleries, a youth art exhibition, and Indian food available for purchase. The celebration is free, but timed activities require reserved tickets. Check the museum’s event page to plan ahead.
Celebration Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday–Sunday, October 17–18 (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Oxtober Fall Festival at Oxbow Farm
Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center, Carnation
Explore farm fields and forest trails, make nature crafts, play lawn games, shop for pumpkins, and enjoy live music and food trucks. The family-friendly festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Check Oxbow’s event page for admission and activity information.
Festival Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Saturday, October 17 (8:30 p.m.)
MANÁ: Vivir Sin Aire Tour
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Catch the Mexican rock band MANÁ on its Vivir Sin Aire Tour at Climate Pledge Arena. The concert is scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m., with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Visit the arena’s event page for tickets and venue information.
Concert Details
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Sunday, October 18 (10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.)
Benaroya Hall Open House
Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle
Explore Benaroya Hall during a free, day-long festival celebrating its refreshed spaces. The schedule includes performances and activities throughout the building, ending with a 4 p.m. concert featuring the Seattle Symphony and members of The Head and The Heart. Check the hall’s page for the full schedule and entry details.
Open House Schedule
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Illustrative photo: Pexels
Celebrate the Season in Seattle
Find Thanksgiving Activities in Seattle
From turkey trots and holiday dining to community gatherings and volunteer opportunities, there are plenty of ways to make Thanksgiving meaningful.
Explore local traditions and find ideas for celebrating with family, friends, and your community.
Explore Thanksgiving Activities →
Plan Ahead
Seattle Activities: October 24–November 24
From fall farm fun to cultural festivals and the first holiday market of the season, here are a few events to look forward to around Seattle.
Maris Farms, Buckley
Illustrative photo: Pexels
01 • Fall Farm Fun
Fall Fun at Maris Farms
October 24–25
Maris Farms, Buckley
Make a fall day of the pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm activities, and seasonal treats. Maris Farms notes that October 24 and 25 are among its busiest fall dates, so check ticket availability and hours before heading out.
Plan Your Visit
This free Seattle Center Festál festival honors Día de Muertos with performances, community altars, visual art, face painting, and sugar skull workshops.
October 31–November 1
Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall
Check the festival page for current program details
03
Seattle Center Festál
Diwali: Lights of India
November 7
Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a free day of music, dance, visual art, martial arts, food, and cultural activities. Seattle Center’s event listing currently shows a noon start; visit the festival page for updates.
Festival Details
04 • Seattle Center Festál
Seattle Hmong New Year
November 14
Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall
Welcome the new year and the end of the harvest season at this free cultural festival featuring traditional clothing, dance, food, and more. Check Seattle Center’s page for event updates and program information.
Festival Details
05 • Seattle Center
Seattle Christmas Market
November 20–24
Seattle Center
Quick Answers for Seattle Families
Seattle Fun Things to Do: Questions Families Ask
Planning an outing around Seattle? These quick answers can help you find activities that fit your family, your schedule, and the weather.
What are some fun things to do in Seattle with kids?
Seattle has options for different ages and interests, from parks and waterfront outings to museums, markets, and seasonal events. I like to choose one main activity and leave a little room in the day for a snack, a walk, or an unexpected stop along the way.
What can we do in Seattle when it rains?
Keep an indoor option in mind, such as a museum, aquarium, market, or other covered attraction. Check the venue’s current hours, admission details, and any special event schedule before you go.
Are there free or low-cost things to do around Seattle?
Yes. Parks, neighborhood walks, public spaces, and some community events can make for an enjoyable outing without a major ticket expense. Check event details ahead of time, since admission and activity costs can vary.
Do Seattle activities usually require reservations?
Some popular attractions and special events use timed tickets or require advance reservations, while others welcome walk-ins. Check the organizer’s website for the latest ticket, parking, and arrival information before making the trip.
How can I find seasonal events and things to do this weekend?
Look for current listings from the event organizer or venue, especially when you need to confirm dates, hours, and admission details. I also share seasonal ideas and local events in my Seattle newsletter.
Choose an Outing That Fits Your Family
You don’t have to plan a packed day to make a good memory. Choose something that fits your family’s interests, energy, and schedule.
Check the current details before you leave, and keep a backup idea in mind in case the weather or your plans change.
More Seattle Ideas
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I share local events, seasonal things to do, real estate updates, and useful Seattle-area information throughout the year.
About Emily
Emily Cressey
I’m a lifelong Seattle-area resident and real estate broker with HomePro Associates at Keller Williams Greater Seattle. Along with helping people buy and sell homes, I enjoy putting together practical local guides for families who want to get out and enjoy the Seattle area.