12 Can’t Miss Fall Festivals & Markets
Celebrate the season and explore these fall festivals and markets full of local flavor and festive fun.
Savor seasonal treats, shop local crafts, and enjoy live entertainment amidst stunning autumn scenery.
Dubuque Oktoberfest – Sept. 14
Don't miss the 15th annual Dubuque Oktoberfest! Find it at the Q Casino Back Waters Stage for a day of food, drinks, music, and fun—featuring the famous stein-holding contest and Wiener Dog Races! Family-friendly and free to attend with a suggested donation to support Camp Albrecht Acres.
Bloktoberfest – Sept. 14
Catch this event in the Historic Millwork District for an epic day of contests, races, shows, and more! From BMX and skateboarding to a sustainable fashion show and dance exhibition, there’s something for everyone. Plus, enjoy food trucks, local brews, and family fun! All proceeds benefit local foundations.
Mid-Week Market - Wednesdays through Sept. 25
Enjoy live music every Wednesday evening through September 25th, 5-8PM. Explore a variety of local vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats right outside Jubeck New World Brewing. It's the perfect way to support local and unwind with great tunes and delicious, farm-fresh products!
Mac & Cheese Fest – Sept. 26
Foodies and Craft Beer Lovers unite to taste more than 20 varieties of Mac & Cheese paired with over 50 craft beers. Find this event at the Five Flags Center.
Dyersville Downtown Harvest Market – Sept. 28
The Harvest Market will offer fun for the whole family. Children can enjoy free activities like a petting zoo with baby animals, pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, and a Fall family photo booth. Families can also take a complimentary hayride around town. With over 75 vendors selling Fall decor, caramel apples, pumpkins, and unique gifts, there's something for everyone. Don't forget live music to complete the festive atmosphere.
Czipar’s Apple Festival – Sept. 28 & 29
Czipar’s Apple Festival is back on Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, from 9 AM to 5 PM at Czipar’s Orchard, just south of Dubuque. This family-friendly event offers homemade caramel apples, pies, fresh cider, and cider donuts. Kids will enjoy games, and a caricature artist will be on-site for fun sketches. Plus, pick up pumpkins and more for your fall décor, and enjoy delicious lunch options and kettle corn.
Dubuque Latinx Fiesta – Sept. 28
Celebrate the diversity of Latin cultures at Dubuque’s Latin American Festival! Experience a vibrant Latinx celebration with vendors, cuisine, art, live music, and dance. Explore over 20 vendors offering Latin American food, desserts, imported products, clothing, handcrafted items, and art. Enjoy live performances featuring a Spanish rock band, a salsa band, and a showcase of 20 Peruvian dancers. View original Latinx artwork displayed across two floors inside the Smokestack.
Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island – Oct. 6
Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island is a free family event designed to spotlight the island's current offerings while generating enthusiasm for its potential. Through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and fun activities, attendees will discover existing attractions and local businesses. The event also unveils plans for future amenities, fostering a sense of community pride and shared vision for Schmitt Island's growth.
Millwork Night Market – Oct. 10
This independent farmers’ market features local food, foods, original artists, live entertainment, and craft beer. Their goal is to connect shoppers with the amazing farmers, producers, artists, and artisans that we have in the Tri-State area, while also providing a unique nightlife experience.
Fall Festival at the Field of Dreams – Oct. 11 & 12
This fall, the iconic Field of Dreams Movie Site will host a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating the beauty of the season. Whether baseball fans or those simply looking to enjoy the crisp fall air, this festival promises fun for all ages. More exciting details will be announced soon.
Monks Makers Market – Oct. 13
Hosted by Dubuque's eclectic bar & coffee shop, Monk's, this outdoor market features local handmade art and crafts, vintage goods, live music, food trucks, and of course delicious drinks. Just steps from the Fenelon Place Elevator on Bluff St.
Dubuque Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday through Oct. 31
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians.