Fall Festival Fever!-Monroeville

As Autumn approaches, let the fall fun begin! Pumpkins, corn mazes, hayrides, applefests and more await.

Down on the Farm

Gearhard Farms Annual Corn Maze

When: Labor Day weekend through Halloween

Where: 5909 Saltsburg Road, Murrysville

For more info: gearhardfarms.com

Get lost in fall fun at Gearhard Farms! For more than 25 years, the 4-acre corn mazes have been designed with all ages in mind and an aerial “mystery message” that’s revealed at the end. Additional activities include hayrides, campfires, horse cart rides and more.

Fall Fairs and Festivals

A Taste of Serbia

When: October 3 & 4

Where: St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 901 Hartman Street, McKeesport

For more info: stsavapa.org/atasteofserbia

This festival brings patrons the opportunity to experience Serbian foods and flavors as well as Serbian hospitality and culture.

Delmont Apple ’n Arts Festival

When: October 4 & 5

Where: Shields Farm, 326 East Pittsburgh Street, Delmont

For more info: delmontapplenarts.com

Take a bite out of fall fun at the Apple ’n Arts Festival! This event features more than 100 arts, crafts, and food vendors. You will find handmade items from local crafters, antique farm equipment, delicious food, and apple cider that you can see pressed right before your eyes. The festival proceeds benefit the community.

Edgewood Foundation’s Oktoberfest

When: October 4

Where: Koenig Field, 401 Greendale Avenue, Edgewood

For more info: edgewoodfoundation.org

The foundation’s Oktoberfest is a time for residents to share in brats, beer, and fun. Don’t forget the pig roast!

Fort Ligonier Days

When: October 10-12

Where: Downtown Ligonier

For more info: fortligonierdays.com

This premier fall festival commemorates a key battle of the French and Indian War that occurred on Oct. 12, 1758. It draws many visitors each year to the quaint, picturesque town of Ligonier. The three-day event features historical battle reenactments, top-rated juried crafts, delicious foods, delightful musical entertainment, a grand parade, and a 5K walk/run.

Labor United Celebration

When: August 31 & September 1

Where: Northmoreland Park, 280 Markle Road, Apollo

For more info: westmorelandcountypa.gov

A giant two-day festival celebrating the proud tradition of labor in Western Pennsylvania. This event includes live musical performances, family entertainment, a one-ring circus, carnival rides, Bingo, an arts & crafts marketplace, and a large flea market.

Ligonier Highland Games

When: September 13

Where: Idlewild Park, 2580 US‑30, Ligonier

For more info: ligonierhighlandgames.org

Experience the Scottish Highlands right here in Pennsylvania at the Ligonier Highland Games! Enjoy all the sights and sounds, including massed bands on the field filling the air with the skirl of bagpipes. Witness athletic events such as tossing the caber and the Scottish hammer throw, watch some Highland and country dancing, and shop for Scottish wares, clothing and food.

Mt. Pleasant Glass & Ethnic Festival

When: September 26-28

Where: Diamond Street and Washington Street, Mount Pleasant

For more info: golaurelhighlands.com

The Glass & Ethnic Festival celebrates the area’s glass making history and ethnic diversity. Crowds will enjoy ethnic foods, arts, crafts, contests, and free entertainment on two stages.

Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Labor Day Festival

When: August 29 through September 1

Where: Westmoreland Fairgrounds, 123 Blue Ribbon Lane, Greensburg

For more info: familyfestivals.com

With more than 200 exhibits situated on the Westmoreland Fairgrounds, there is truly something for everyone. The festival is a mix of exhibitors and vendors from 14 states ready to greet you at the annual shopping marketplace where many unique treasures and food await.

Plum Fall Fest

When: September 27

Where: Plum Creek Park, 4540 New Texas Road, Plum

For more info: plumboro.com

Fall Fest includes food trucks and craft beer along with a farmers market. Children can enjoy free pony rides, games, and activities along with a pumpkin patch.

Scottdale Fall Festival

When: September 19-21

Where: The Gazebo, corner of Pittsburgh Street and Spring Street, Scottdale

For more info: scottdalefallfestival.org

This is a three-day annual celebration featuring a wide variety of handmade crafts, local and ethnic foods to suit all palates, a highly anticipated parade that is a crowd pleaser for the kid in all of us, a full schedule of live entertainment, children’s area and much more. Admission is free.

Fall Activities and Events

Bushy Run Battlefield Fall Nature Walk

When: October 18

Where: 1253 Bushy Run Road, Jeannette

For more info: bushyrunbattlefield.com

Join certified herbalist Lindsey Praksti and learn more about the various flora and fauna of Western Pennsylvania. Participants will gain detailed knowledge of Bushy Run’s grounds and learn both historical and modern uses for the various plant life that will be visible throughout the walk.

The Great Pumpkin Race

When: October 26

Where: Monroeville Community Park West, 2399 Tilbrook Road, Monroeville

For more info: monroevillefoundation.org

This Halloween-themed event is a run and walk that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together for some fun exercise.

Hobgoblin Hikes

When: October 18 (Twin Lakes) and October 25 (Cedar Creek)

Where: Twin Lakes Park, 219 Twin Lakes Road, Latrobe; Cedar Creek Park, 453 Evergreen Drive, Belle Vernon

For more info: westmorelandcountypa.gov

Recommended for those age 8 and older, the Hobgoblin Hikes are half-mile outdoor guided walks through the haunted woods of county parks. Visitors can expect to be led through mazes and cemeteries, and past more than 100 ghouls, goblins and monsters. The events are free and will be held regardless of weather conditions. The hikes are offered to provide a safe, family-friendly alternative to conventional trick-or-treating. Visitors are welcome to dress in costume, and parents are encouraged to attend with their children.

Idlewild’s HallowBoo!

When: September 13 through October 26 (Saturdays and Sundays)

Where: Idlewild Park, 2580 US‑30, Ligonier

For more info: idlewild.com

It’s the Idlewild you know and love, with a fun, family-oriented, Happy-Halloween twist! Trick-or-treat through Story Book Forest, hop on favorite rides, and enjoy special entertainment perfect for the season.

McKeesport’s Annual Halloween Parade

When: October 25

Where: Andrew J. Jakomas Blue Top Pavilion, 1635 Arboretum Drive, McKeesport

For more info: mckeesport-pa.gov

Dress as your favorite character and bring a bag or bucket with you to collect candy! Families meet at the Blue Top Pavilion for seasonal activities before trick-or-treating.

Sleepover in the Park

When: September 6 & 7

Where: Koenig Field, 401 Greendale Avenue, Edgewood

For more info: edgewoodfoundation.org

Most participants in the Sleepover in the Park are children ages 10 and under with their parents. They pitch tents and sleep under the stars. The event also includes a movie shown on a big screen, marshmallow roasting, flashlight tag, and a bonfire.

Sunday Fun Day: Hispanic Heritage Celebration

When: September 21

Where: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 North Main Street, Greensburg

For more info: thewestmoreland.org/event

The Westmoreland will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant day of performances and art activities for all ages. Rich traditions, diverse cultures, and creative expressions will be honored.

Trick-or-Treat on the Trail

When: October 25

Where: Murrysville Community Park, 4056 Wiestertown Road, Export

For more info: murrysvilleparecreation.com

Trick-or-Treat on the Trail is a free event for ages 10 and under but pre-registration is required. Dress up in your best costume and collect treats provided by local businesses and organizations.

Trunk-or-Treat and a Halloween Movie

When: October 22

Where: Plum Borough Municipal Building, 2000 Mike Thomas Way, Plum

For more info: plumboro.com

Take the kiddos to the municipal building in their costumes ready for trunk-or-treating! Stay a while after for more Halloween-themed fun.

Fundraisers and Live Entertainment

Greensburg Music Fest

When: September 13

Where: Downtown Greensburg

For more info: westmorelandculturaltrust.org

Presented by Westmoreland Cultural Trust, this outdoor festival will highlight local music, art, organizations and food.

The Monroeville Foundation Jazz Festival

When: August 30

Where: Tall Trees Amphitheater, Monroeville Community Park West, 2399 Tilbrook Road, Monroeville

For more info: monroevillefoundation.org

Over the years, this festival has been proud to continue to promote awareness and appreciation for all forms of jazz through an annual one-day live concert. The mission is to showcase and celebrate Pittsburgh’s jazz legends and up-and-coming jazz greats alongside national talent, to encourage and educate an audience of all ages.

‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ 50th Anniversary Spectacular Tour

When: October 10

Where: The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg

For more info: thepalacetheatre.org

Join one of the movie’s stars for a screening of the original unedited movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation.

Tijuana Brass Presented by River City Brass

When: October 2 (Linton Middle School) and October 7 (Palace Theatre)

Where: Linton Middle School, 250 Aster Street, Penn Hills; The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg

For more info: rivercitybrass.org

The popular brass band will perform a tribute to Herb Alpert and his Tijuana Brass, featuring hits such as “Tijuana Taxi,” “A Taste of Honey,” and “Zorba the Greek.”

Wine & Chocolate

When: November 15

Where: The Edgewood Club, 1 Pennwood Avenue, Edgewood

For more info: edgewoodfoundation.org

Enjoy wine pairings with gourmet chocolate along with savory appetizers while catching up with neighbors and participating in a silent auction and basket raffle.

Autumn in the Burgh

Festival of Combustion

When: October 4

Where: Carrie Blast Furnaces, 801 Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin

For more info: riversofsteel.com

This festival is a celebration of the industrial arts and American crafts. Hands-on activities for adults and kids with demonstrations and experiences throughout the day will add to the fun.

Handmade Arcade

When: December 5 & 6

Where: David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Downtown Pittsburgh

For more info: handmadearcade.org

This holiday market is Handmade Arcade’s longest-running and largest event, hosting up to 275 makers and artists and more than 10,000 enthusiastic shoppers.

Phantom Fall Fest

When: Select dates in September and October

Where: Kennywood Park, 4800 Kennywood Boulevard, West Mifflin

For more info: kennywood.com

Phantom Fall Fest lets you do Halloween your way. Family-friendly fun starts early, including rides, festive food, and a unique autumn atmosphere. When the sun goes down, the Phantom takes screams to the extreme with haunted houses and scare zones.

Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival

When: September 13

Where: Mellon Park, 6518 Fifth Avenue, Point Breeze

For more info: pghccc.org

This all-day festival offers tons of Asian cuisine, musical and dance performances, exhibits and games.

Pittsburgh Empower Walk & 5K Run

When: September 25

Where: Acrisure Stadium, 100 Art Rooney Avenue, Pittsburgh’s North Side

For more info: act.autismspeaks.org

Participation in this event directly supports crucial programs and services for the autism community.

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival

When: September 18-21

Where: Highmark Stadium, 510 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh’s South Side

For more info: pittsburghjazzfest.org

The Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival features world-renowned musicians, local jazz pros, and new artists, taking the stage to create a sound experience like no other. This annual event is presented by the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

Pittsburgh Irish Festival

When: September 5-7

Where: Carrie Blast Furnaces, 801 Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin

For more info: pghirishfest.org

This event is one of the area’s largest celebrations of Celtic music, dance, lore and food.

Pittsburgh Lebanese Food Festival

When: September 5-7

Where: Our Lady of Victory Maronite Church, 1000 Tropical Avenue, Beechview

For more info: visitpittsburgh.com

Authentic Lebanese food, music and culture are all part of this annual festival.

Pittsburgh Monster Pumpkins Festival

When: October 18 & 19

Where: 3 Crossings Campus (between 28th and 29th Streets), Pittsburgh’s Strip District

For more info: monsterpumpkins.com

This event features pumpkins so big, so heavy, and so fascinating-to-behold you’ll be doing double takes all day long!

Schenley Plaza Kids Day

When: October 13

Where: 4100 Forbes Avenue, Oakland

For more info: pittsburghparks.org

Kids Day includes free carousel rides, interactive activities, unique live performances and more!

We love to inform our readers about fun events happening in our local communities. Send an email message to d.mountain@icmags.com if you have details about a future event in the area.

We kindly ask that before attending an event, please check the website provided. We do our utmost to make certain the information we provide in this section is accurate; however, events are subject to change.