The leaves are starting to pop in a kaleidoscopic array of colors, and soon the brisk chill of autumn will force you to dig out your favorite cozy sweaters. Sure, this is the season of leaf peepers, corn mazes and all things pumpkin spice, but it's also the season to enjoy a bevy of fall festivals up and down the Sound region. So take a break from firing up your wood stoves and check out some of these autumnal events.
Tacoma Greek Festival
Opa! Tacoma's Greek Festival is back for another year celebrating Tacoma's vibrant Greek community and culture. Envelop yourself with delightful Greek cuisine, traditional dance performances and the chance to tour St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (the event's venue). This is the 55th year of Tacoma's Greek Festival, which practically makes it an annual tradition for lovers of everything Greek. If a fun and culturally didactic time is on the menu, definitely check out Tacoma's Greek Festival.
Tacoma Greek Festival, Sept. 30 and Oct 1, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Oct. 2, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 1523 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma, stnicholastacoma.org
Piketoberfest Seattle
There is seemingly no limit on how Oktoberfest can be re-imagined or remixed. Well, all aboard Piketoberfest! This beerfest takes place at Seattle's Pike Brewing Co. Oct. 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. So, don your Lederhosen and belly up for a stein of locally brewed goodies. This is the perfect excuse to sample from a host of craft beers from area microbreweries like Diamond Knot Brewing, Hellbent Brewing and Two Beers Brewing. This and many German liqueurs and spirits will be on-hand to make Piketoberfest the best. This is an event for the 21 and older crowd. Schunkeln is optional.
Piketoberfest Seattle, Oct. 1, 1 to 4 p.m., Pike Brewing Co., 1415 1st Ave. (between Pike & Union), Seattle, Tickets: $40, pikebrewing.com
The Tacoma Film Festival
Put that dusty film degree to good use and discuss the medium of motion pictures at the 11th annual Tacoma Film Festival. From Oct. 6 to 13, enjoy a range of independent films that tackle a host of contemporary issues and oftentimes celebrate the works of filmmakers from the Pacific Northwest. Many of the screenings will include Q&A sessions with the creators of the works. This is a fantastic way to experience the meta of moviemaking. Awards will be given to the artists at the conclusion of the festival. The Tacoma Film Festival is hosted by The Grand Cinema.
The Tacoma Film Festival, Oct. 6 to 13, Various showtimes, The Grand Cinema, 606 South Fawcett Ave., Tacoma. Tickets: $75 to $150, 253.593.4474, grandcinema.com
Oktoberfest Northwest Puyallup
Just because the Washington State Fair is over doesn't mean the fun has to end. Come to the fairgrounds in Puyallup and pretend you're a Bavarian at Oktoberfest Northwest. Cut a rug to live traditional German music or load up your plate with delicious food. There will be plenty of beer and cider to swill to your heart's content. Oktoberfest Northwest is all-ages friendly until 7 p.m. - after that point, all attendees must be 21 or older. Head over to Puyallup and discover your inner German.
Oktoberfest Northwest, Oct. 7 and 8, 11 a.m. to midnight.; Oct. 9, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Washington State Fairgrounds, 110 Ave. SW, Puyallup, Tickets: $12, thefair.com
Fall Arts Walk Olympia
Held in downtown Olympia, the Fall Arts Walk highlights the unique spectrum of art our capital city has to offer. From conventional to completely abstract, the Fall Arts Walk takes you on a journey spanning genres and artistic media. Find a lovely painting for your pool room accompanied by live music from talented musicians. Several downtown businesses are collaborating to make the Fall Arts Walk memorable and fun.
Fall Arts Walk Olympia, Oct. 7, 5 to 10 p.m.; Oct. 8, noon to 5 p.m., Downtown Olympia, Free. For more information, contact Olympia Center 222 Columbia St. NW, Olympia
Lattin's Country Cider Mill and Farm Apple Festival Olympia
Although Lattin's Country Cider Mill is open year-round, September and October celebrates apple harvesting time. Join the fun during this exciting and active season at its Apple Festival. The festival includes a wide assortment of apple varieties to take home for pies or just plain snacking. Of course, there's a cider press on the property to allow you to experience all sorts of tasty ciders. There will also be plenty of other autumn activities during the Apple Festival. While you're at it, check out their amazing farm as well!
Lattin's Apple Festival, last weekend of September and every weekend in October, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lattin's Country Cider Mill and Farm, 9402 Rich Road SE, Olympia, Tickets: Free, $5 per car for parking, 360.491.7328, lattinscider.com
Troll-O-Ween Fremont Seattle
Seeking a completely unique way to celebrate Halloween? Consider going to Troll-O-Ween in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood. Not only is this street festival, but it's also celebrating the Freemont Troll's birthday. This trick-or-treat fair has been an annual event since its inception in 1990. There will be several troll-themed performances that you surely won't want to miss. Dress appropriately - it is Halloween after all, and there will be a costume contest!
Troll-O-Ween, Oct. 31, 7 p.m. to midnight, Fremont Doric Hall, 619 N. 36th St., Seattle, Tickets: $5, fremontartscouncil.org