Events around the World in September 2025: Can’t-miss festivals, concerts, and cultural events

Marshelle Sanders
Sep 19
3 min read

September marks a vibrant transitional period worldwide—summer’s warmth giving way to autumn’s crisp embrace in the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere moves toward spring.

It’s a month rich with cultural celebrations, music festivals, and unique events that bring communities together to honor tradition, creativity, and the changing seasons.

For travelers, music lovers, and culture enthusiasts, September offers an exciting calendar of can’t-miss happenings across continents.

Whether you’re planning a trip or simply seeking inspiration, here’s a global guide to some of the most dynamic festivals, concerts, and cultural events happening this September.

1. Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany

Though Oktoberfest technically begins in late September and runs through early October, its opening days fall squarely in September, making it one of the most iconic festivals of the month. This world-famous beer festival celebrates Bavarian culture with traditional music, hearty foods, and, of course, a wide variety of beers served in lively beer tents.

Visitors can experience authentic folk dances, brass bands, and parades featuring participants dressed in lederhosen and dirndls. Beyond beer, Oktoberfest is a showcase of German craftsmanship, culinary heritage, and conviviality—a must-visit for festival-goers seeking a blend of tradition and fun.

2. Mid-Autumn Festival – East Asia

Celebrated across China, Vietnam, Korea, and other parts of East Asia, the Mid-Autumn Festival (also known as the Moon Festival) usually falls in September, depending on the lunar calendar. This harvest celebration honors the full moon and is steeped in folklore, lantern displays, and family gatherings.

In cities like Beijing, Hanoi, and Seoul, public parks and streets are adorned with vibrant lanterns, and mooncakes—sweet pastries filled with lotus seed or red bean paste—are shared among loved ones. Traditional performances, dragon dances, and moon-viewing parties make this festival a magical experience.

3. JazzFest – New Orleans, USA

September in New Orleans means one of the city’s premier music events—the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, often called JazzFest. Though primarily held in late April and early May, the city hosts related smaller concerts and cultural events in September to celebrate the spirit of jazz, blues, and Creole culture.

Venues across the French Quarter offer live music, food fairs with iconic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, and craft markets. JazzFest is a soulful homage to New Orleans’ musical roots, perfect for visitors eager to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

4. Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival – Harbin, China

While the full Harbin Ice and Snow Festival takes place in winter, September often features preview events showcasing the preparation of the festival’s massive ice sculptures. These early events offer visitors a glimpse into the artistry and scale of one of the world’s most impressive winter festivals.

Visitors can witness sculptors shaping colossal blocks of ice, attend workshops, and enjoy cultural exhibitions that highlight northeastern China’s unique winter traditions.

5. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – Toronto, Canada

Film lovers flock to Toronto every September for TIFF, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious film festivals. Showcasing hundreds of new films from across the globe—ranging from blockbuster premieres to indie gems—TIFF is a major event on the cinematic calendar.

Panels, red carpet events, and celebrity sightings add to the excitement, while screenings across the city’s theaters bring stories from diverse cultures and perspectives to eager audiences. For cinephiles, TIFF is a September highlight not to be missed.

Why September is a Global Celebration Month

September’s timing—straddling seasons and cultural cycles—makes it a natural month for reflection, gratitude, and renewal. Many festivals are tied to harvests or lunar calendars, linking modern celebrations to ancient rhythms.

In addition to these major events, countless local fairs, art shows, and music gatherings take place worldwide, each adding to the month’s cultural mosaic. Whether you attend in person or follow virtually, September invites us all to celebrate diversity and creativity.

How to Experience These Events Responsibly

Plan ahead: Many popular events require advance tickets or reservations.
Respect local customs: Understanding the cultural significance enhances appreciation and shows respect.
Support local vendors and artists: Engaging with community businesses helps sustain cultural traditions.
Stay sustainable: Opt for eco-friendly travel and mindful consumption to protect the places and cultures you visit.

From the festive beer tents of Munich to the moonlit lanterns of East Asia, September offers a rich tapestry of global events that highlight cultural heritage, artistic expression, and communal joy.

Whether you seek music, food, film, or spiritual celebration, this month’s calendar is packed with experiences that inspire connection and celebration.

As the world comes alive with festivals and concerts this September, there’s never been a better time to explore and embrace the diversity that unites us all.