Is that a chill in the air? Autumn is just around the corner, and the September edition of “Your Month IRL,” Bustle’s monthly roundup of in-person events, includes plenty of seasonal activities to get you in the cozy spirit, from harvest celebrations to football games.
But summer isn’t totally over yet. The finale of the season’s most talked-about series is still coming up — and this one definitely calls for a watch party. Plus, there are still plenty of concerts and music festivals to keep the good times rolling well into the fall. Here, check out our ideas to start the new season off right.
— Megan LaCreta, Editorial Associate
Some dates and details to keep in mind, regardless of which city you call home.
Depending on where you live, September may still feel like beach season, but a surefire way to get into the autumnal spirit is to pick your own apples. Apple picking season typically lasts into the beginning of October, so don’t miss your window! Be sure to grab a warm apple cider donut, too.
It’s time to break out your slow cooker. On Sept. 4, football season officially begins, with the Dallas Cowboys facing off against the defending Super Bowl champs, the Philadelphia Eagles, on their home turf. Grab some friends and put together a watch party potluck, or root for your fave team whilst keeping your nachos all to yourself.
It’s harvest season in Napa Valley, and wine country’s highlight is the Calistoga Harvest Table. The 1000-foot-long communal table features food from 12 local restaurants, and various wines from Calistoga’s own vineyards. Tickets go for $175 — get yours before they sell out.
The biggest week in fashion is right around the corner. Style enthusiasts everywhere can hop on the trend, whether you’re hoping to snag some tickets to a runway show, catch an open-to-the-public panel of industry experts, or critique every look from the comfort of your couch with Miranda Priestly-like intensity.
Team Conrad, rise. The highly anticipated final episode of TSITP premieres on Wednesday, Sept. 17, on Amazon Prime. Make your final predictions for what Taylor Swift song (or two) will be featured, pour up some pomegranate margaritas, and don’t forget the tissues.
Grab your dearest friends (the ones who really get “Ribs”) and see Lorde live on tour. The inaugural concert for the singer’s latest album, Virgin, takes place in Texas, but there are still tickets available to shows across the country.
Calling all theater nerds! The 2025 Philadelphia Fringe Festival runs from Sept. 4 - 28 and will feature over 300 unique performances. Think dance, stand-up, film screenings, improv, and even circus acts at venues across the city, including Sawubona Creativity Project and The Drake. Check out the full lineup and get tickets here.
— Carolyn Steber, Staff Writer
Not that you’d know it by the Miami weather, but fall is almost here! From Sept. 20, Pinto’s Farm is embracing the autumnal vibes with a pumpkin patch, boat rides, and seasonal flavors that will help you welcome the coziest time of year. More information here.
— Grace Wehniainen, Staff Writer
From Sept. 19 - 21, Chicago’s most bad*ss music festival is taking over Douglass Park. With headliners like Green Day, Blink-182, and Weezer, Riot Fest is celebrating its 20th anniversary, so many special surprises are likely in store. Purchase tickets here.
— Gabrielle Bondi, Entertainment Editor
You may not have heard of Damariscotta, Maine, before, but this tiny town is known as the oyster capital of New England. At the Pemaquid Oyster Festival on Sept. 28, spend a day tasting wares from 10 farms, trying your hand at a shucking contest, and listening to live music, all right on a scenic pier. Nobody does fall foliage like Maine, and late September is an especially magical time.
— Hannah Orenstein, Deputy Lifestyle & Wellness Editor
Have an event for our monthly roundup? Send it to bustlecalendar@bustle.com.
