The Autumn months are a wonderful time to visit Philadelphia with the colour changes of nature evident in the tree lined streets and urban parks, many fantastic fall and harvest events, the party atmosphere of the city’s many Octoberfest events and of course Halloween, which Philadelphia goes all out for.
Oktoberfests
Philadelphia has been at the heart of German American culture since the first immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, and the beer is certainly flowing in the many authentic Oktoberfest celebrations that take place throughout the city.
The 15th annual South Street Oktoberfest takes place on September 16th on the 700 block of South Street. With a covered seating for over 1,000 people, live Oompah music all day, German dancers, the litre lift competition, a dozen German beers, signature Bavarian dishes and much more.
23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest which takes place on 13th and 14th October claims to be the most Authentic Oktoberfest experience outside of Munich. Taking place in a 16,000 foot tented venue which can fit up to 1,400 people and features live German Oompah music, cultural German dance performances, original festival food, and of course, plenty of German beer.
Philadelphia has a thriving craft beer scene, and during Oktoberfest, many breweries create special beers inspired by German traditions. This is a chance to explore the local craft beer offerings with an Oktoberfest twist.
Above: Photo courtesy of Brauhaus Schmitz
Fall and Harvest Events
As the air grows crisp the smells of autumn and spectacular foliage of red, yellow, and orange signal a season of incredible events in Philadelphia.
To experience the stunning fall foliage head to city’s parks, such as Fairmount Park, one of the largest city-owned urban park systems in the world and Wissahickon Valley Park which has 1800 acres and 50-plus miles of trail
Take a trip to The Countryside of Philadelphia – just a short drive from the Centre City – for more scenes of vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves which make for great photo opportunities.
Philadelphia hosts a variety of seasonal events. At Fall Fest, which takes place at Morgan’s Pier, you can sip cider and carve pumpkins whilst enjoying stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Northern Liberties Night Market allows visitors to sample the vibrant neighbourhood’s best food trucks, shop from local vendors, and enjoy live music and street performances.
Philadelphia has a variety of farmers’ markets that come alive with the colours and flavours of the harvest season. You can find fresh produce and seasonal goodies to enjoy or take home with you.
Above: Morgan’s Pier Fall Fest. Image courtesy of Morgan’s Pier
Halloween
There is a flurry of Spooktacular Halloween events in Philadelphia, from family-friendly activities to more intense haunted experiences, you’ll find something for everyone.
Eastern State Penitentiary’s Halloween Nights takes place on select nights from 22nd September to 11th November is an immersive experience featuring five thrilling haunted houses, museum exhibits, themed lounges, live performances, and more, all inside
Philadelphia is home to America’s first zoo, which hosts Philadelphia Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo during the three weekends leading up to Halloween. Visitors of all ages can explore the zoo’s grounds for special treats, photo opportunities, and a not-so-scary extinction graveyard.
If you’re more interested in unexpected experiences, tour reportedly haunted sites and attractions during a Ghost Tour of Philadelphia when costumed guides will lead you to some of the city’s most historic sites, including Independence Hall and Washington Square.
To read more about fall activities in Philadelphia click here.
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About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organization has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.