There was plenty to enjoy and experience this summer in Batavia, IL, and while the seasons may be changing the City of Energy still has a lot more in store! Fall is a magical time of year here in Batavia. Between Oktoberfest celebrations, fun events like BatFest, and the stunning beauty that comes with the season, there’s a lot to see and do here before winter arrives. Let’s take a look at what’s happening this fall, starting with our Oktoberfest celebrations!
A few local favorites have put together Oktoberfest celebrations here in Batavia. First are our lovely friends at Sturdy Shelter Brewing, who just had their Oktoberfest this past weekend from the 12th through the 14th. If you missed out don’t worry. Not only is there another Oktoberfest gathering later this month in Batavia, but Sturdy Shelter makes this a yearly tradition, so you’ll have something to look forward to in 2026!
Also hosting their own Oktoberfest in Batavia, IL this year is none other than Sidecar Supper Club & Beer Garden! Starting at 4pm on September 27th at 12 N. River Street, Sidecar’s Oktoberfest will feature German themed eats, Oktoberfest brews, live music from Hoss (8pm-11pm), games, and more. Head to historic Downtown Batavia Saturday the 27th for a fantastic fall get together!
Every year we put together the Lantern Walk here in Batavia, a night where lanterns light the streets giving our already beautiful town a magical glow. It’s the perfect excuse to get out and shop the small businesses that call Batavia home. This years Lantern Walk has a fun twist though, as it also lines up with the release of Taylor Swift’s next album, Life of a Showgirl! Stroll the streets of Batavia from 5pm-8pm and enjoy Taylor themed treats, surprises from our local small businesses, and an unforgettable lantern lit evening with the community!
Grab your broomstick (and your best witchy hat) for a fun-filled evening in downtown Batavia! Hosted at the Batavia Boardwalk Shops, Witches Night Out is the perfect excuse for a girls’ night out with a spooky twist. Featuring tarot reader Annie Hex, exclusive raffles, as well as a Best Witch Costume Contest, Witches Night Out is one of the most fun events of the fall in Batavia. Every shop will be open late, and many will feature limited-time offerings created just for the occasion!
BatFest is Batavia’s Halloween event, and is SUCH a fun time for the whole family. Running from 10am to 2pm on the 25th, BatFest features downtown trick-or-treating, music and dance performances, costume contests for both humans and pets, activities by local businesses, and a community parade! Join as thousands of ghosts and ghouls take to the streets for a Halloween celebration in the City of Energy.
Finally, there’s the 3rd annual Homemade Horror Show at Sturdy Shelter Brewing. Taking place on 10/26 at the brewery, the Homemade Horror Show will showcase kitschy and campy PG13 films made by locals to get into the Halloween spirit. Head to Sturdy Shelter for an evening of kitschy films, great beers, and surprises from the Batavia Paranormal Investigation Squad!
There’s so much to see, do, and enjoy this fall in Batavia, Illinois. Mark your calendars and start planning your next visit today. Be sure to also keep an eye out for future events here in town through our events page!
