Things to Do This Fall in Chicago’s Southwest Suburbs: 2026 Guide

Updated September 28, 2026. Some September festivals in the original version of this guide have already passed, so this refreshed list focuses on outings you can still plan. Event schedules, admission and weather policies can change; follow each organizer’s link before you leave.

Choose a fall outing that fits your day

• Lemont Scarecrow Trail: Take a self-guided walk by the Lemont Township Community Center. The Village of Lemont’s event listing describes the 2026 trail running from September 26 into October. Check the current listing for any changes.
• Homer Glen pumpkin-farm day: Bengtson’s Fall Fest lists a season through November 8, 2026, with rides and family attractions. Konow’s Corn Maze also opened for its 2026 season. Compare admission, hours and weather rules before choosing one.
• Palos Heights nature visit: Lake Katherine’s special-events calendar lists October programs, while the grounds offer a quieter option for a walk. Its September monarch celebration has passed; do not plan around that earlier date.
• Evergreen Park weekday market: The village lists its 2026 farmers market on Thursdays through October 29 at Yukich Fields. Vendor participation can vary.
• Palos-area woodland walk: Swallow Cliff Woods offers trails and fitness stairs. Review Forest Preserves alerts and stay on official trails; the north parking area may open late on some maintenance Thursdays.

Check the calendar for a last-minute plan

If you want music or a community event rather than a farm or hike, use Visit Tinley Park’s live events calendar and the Oak Lawn Park District calendar. The September Oak Lawn music festival and Tinley Park Oktoberfest from our earlier guide are past as of this update, so a current calendar is more useful than an outdated recommendation.

Free printable fall 2026 planner

Use your browser’s Print command (Ctrl+P on Windows or Command+P on Mac) to print this page or save it as a PDF. Check the organizer’s page again on the day you travel.

• ☐ Pick an outing and check the official date and hours.
• ☐ Confirm tickets, payment options and cancellation rules.
• ☐ Check weather and accessibility details for your group.
• ☐ Plan travel, parking and a backup indoor option.
• ☐ Save the organizer’s link for a day-of update.

Exploring these communities as a possible place to live? Start with our Oak Lawn homes and community guide, then ask Cucci Realty about the neighborhoods you want to compare.