Published September 25, 2025
5 Can’t-Miss October Events on the Main Line
Fall on the Main Line is pure magic—cool mornings, blazing maples, and weekend calendars packed with community traditions. If you’re looking for ways to get outside, meet neighbors, and make some memories, here are five standout events to circle on your October calendar.
1) St. David’s Church Country Fair (Wayne) — Sat, Oct 4, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
“America’s longest-running church fair” isn’t just a tagline—it’s 174 years of tradition in one bustling day on the fairgrounds at St. David’s. Expect a lively mix of white-elephant treasures, book and plant sales, kids’ games, live auctions, food, and plenty of small-town charm. Proceeds support outreach, and the vibe is equal parts family picnic and community reunion. Come early for the best picks at the tents; stay for lunch and the afternoon auction. It’s rain or shine, so dress in layers and bring a tote for finds.
Insider tip: Parking fills fast. If you’re nearby, consider walking or biking. Pro tip for families—set a small “treasure budget” for kids before you hit the resale tents.
2) Narberth Oktoberfest (Narberth Park) — Sat, Oct 11, 5–11 p.m. (21+)
Narberth’s beloved Oktoberfest returns to the park under twinkling lights with German-style pours, music, and a crowd that feels like half the town showed up. It’s a ticketed, 21+ evening that supports local community events (including the Memorial Day Parade), so you can toast fall and do some good at the same time. Expect steins, snacks, and a friendly, festival-in-a-village atmosphere that makes Narberth…Narberth. If you love a fall night outdoors in a walkable downtown, this is your move.
Insider tip: This event typically sells briskly. Grab tickets in advance, plan your ride, and bring a light jacket—you’ll want to linger once the music starts.
3) The Great Halloween Festival (Upper Main Line YMCA, Berwyn) — Sat, Oct 18, 5–8 p.m.
Think “Main Line Halloween,” but bigger: treat trails, a haunted experience, carnival games, seasonal cottages, and plenty of costumed photo ops. The Upper Main Line Y transforms its campus into a kid-friendly wonderland that’s as fun for parents as it is for little goblins. It’s one of the region’s signature fall evenings and a great option for families looking for a safe, festive night that won’t run too late. Costumes encouraged; smiles guaranteed.
Insider tip: Consider arriving right at 5 p.m. to beat the biggest crowds, and bring a small bag for treats. Volunteers make this night run—if you have a teen who needs service hours, check the Y’s volunteer listing.
4) Wayne Trick-or-Treat (Downtown Wayne) — Sat, Oct 25, 1–3 p.m.
Downtown Wayne opens its doors to costumed kiddos for a cheerful daytime trick-or-treat through participating shops and restaurants. It’s easy, walkable, and the perfect way to get more mileage out of those costumes before Halloween night. Expect crafts, friendly merchants, and photo-worthy moments on North Wayne Avenue. Keep an eye out for the Wayne Business Association tent and community partners along the way.
Insider tip: Street parking can be tight—use the lots and give yourself a little buffer to explore the side streets. Strollers are totally doable; just pack a small water bottle and a snack.
5) Shipley Fall Fest (Bryn Mawr) — Sat, Oct 25, 7–10 p.m.
Close out your October with an evening gathering on Shipley’s Upper Campus: live music, BBQ, seasonal drinks, raffles, and plenty of community connection, with proceeds supporting school programs. The setting feels quintessentially Main Line—string lights, crisp air, and the warm hum of neighbors catching up. It’s a fantastic option if your daytime is kid-centric and you’re looking for an adult-friendly fall night out. Registration opens mid-September; mark your calendar and bring friends.
Insider tip: This is an outdoor evening event—think boots, layers, and maybe a blanket or hand warmers if the forecast runs chilly. If you’re new to the area, Fall Fest doubles as a low-pressure way to meet people.
How to Make the Most of October on the Main Line
- Plan your Saturdays now. This year, the fall weekends stack up perfectly, with marquee happenings on Oct 4, 11, 18, and a double-header on Oct 25. Pop each one on your calendar and decide which fit your crew: fairs and family time earlier in the day; grown-up nights later.
- Layer up and lean into “outdoor casual.” With rain-or-shine policies common across these events, a light jacket and comfortable shoes are your best friends. If you plan to shop the St. David’s tents or stroll Wayne with kids, totes and small backpacks keep hands free.
- Buy ahead when you can. Ticketed events like Narberth Oktoberfest often sell quickly and may not offer refunds, so purchase early and set a reminder. If you’re attending with a group, aim to arrive together—entry is 21+ and IDs are checked.
- Think “community first.” One of the best parts of Main Line living is how these gatherings give back—St. David’s raises funds for outreach, Narberth supports local traditions, and Shipley’s evening benefits student programs. Your night out helps keep these traditions strong.
- Involve the kids (and teens!). From UMLY’s festival to downtown Wayne’s daytime trick-or-treat, there’s plenty for littles. Older kids can pitch in as volunteers at UMLY or help younger siblings navigate crafts and candy routes—excellent practice in community stewardship.
Whether you’ve just moved in or you’ve been here for years, these five events capture what makes the Main Line special in October: neighbors showing up, volunteers pitching in, and plenty of chances to celebrate the season together. See you out there—happy fall!