Home » Updated: The Way to Early Fall Events List from Oktoberfest to Halloween

Updated: The Way to Early Fall Events List from Oktoberfest to Halloween

by CC News
Events

Here is a way to early look at fall events and Oktoberfest fun around Contra Costa County and beyond. Plenty of community events which include 5k Runs, Art and Wine, to music, and much more. Be sure to check back as this list will continue to grow as more events are announced.

Updated Sept. 4, at 8:00 am


August 31

159th Scottish Highland Gathering & Games (Pleasanton): Experience the thrill of California’s largest and longest-running Scottish Games—a beloved Bay Area tradition since 1866! Witness world-class competitions, from the awe-inspiring feats of Scottish heavy athletes to the electrifying energy of Scottish dancing, piping, and musical performances. Share the excitement as elite competitors showcase their strength and technique in the legendary caber toss, hammer throw and other ancient events. Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich culture with traditional music, delicious food, and breathtaking performances that bring the spirit of the Scottish Highlands to life! — more info


September. 6

Brentwood Chamber Hosts La Gran Fiesta: Held at Brentwood City Park from 2PM to 8PM for our vibrant Hispanic Heritage Celebration — La Gran Fiesta! This incldues food and dancing, a car show by 925 customs along with a kids zone.  This is more than an event — it’s a cultural celebration full of passion, flavor, rhythm, and pride! Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, the rides, or the vibes, this is a day you won’t want to miss! — More Info

Pour Up Wine Bar: Boots on the Bay:  The riverfront will come alive with wine, delicious food, line dancing, bingo, breathtaking sunsets, and a whole lot of fun. This isn’t just an event—it’s a full evening of summer vibes, laughter, and community energy you won’t want to miss. Dance the night away, try your luck at bingo, sip your favorite wines, enjoy a delicious buffet, and soak in the beauty of the riverfront sunset. Whether you’re coming with friends, a date, or just ready to make new memories, Boots on the Bay is the place to be this September 6. — more info


September. 7

Delta Harvest Run: Organized by the Delta Association of Realtors Community Service Foundation, this annual race is more than just a run—it’s a powerful way to give back. Every step you take supports East Contra Costa County food banks, shelters, and college scholarships for local high school students. Together, we can fuel hope, provide essential resources, and create brighter futures for those in need. With flat and fast courses designed for all skill levels, the Delta Harvest Run offers something for everyone! Choose from a Half marathon, 10K, 5K, and and bonus Family Fun Runsign up!


Sept. 12 -15

Stand Down on the Delta: The Delta Veterans Group will host Stand Down on the Delta 2025 from September 12–15 at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch. This four-day event provides homeless and at-risk veterans with essential services, including medical and dental care, housing and job placement assistance, mental health support, and more.

Since its inception, Stand Down on the Delta has served thousands of veterans and their families, offering everything from meals and clothing to permanent housing resources and even fishing trips on the Delta. Over 70 organizations partner to make this event possible, and volunteers are needed to help continue this important work. For details or to sign up as a volunteer, visit Delta Veterans Group.


September. 13

Rivertown Peddlers Fair (Antioch): his is a Fun-Filled Day with Music, Food, Wine & Beer and Great  Shopping! The Rivertown Peddlers Faire offers a Little Something for Everyone! Featuring Repurposed, Handmade, New & Used and Great Vintage Finds! We Look Forward to Seeing You at The Rivertown Peddlers Faire! The event is on Sept. 13 from 9;00 am to 3:00 pm at G St & 2nd Street — more info

Side Gate Brewery Oktoberfest (Concord): The steins are shining & the German beers are flowing—it can only mean one thing: Oktoberfest is back!  Side Gate Brewery’s Oktoberfest returns on Saturday, September 13, from 12pm – 9pm. This year’s festivities include: NEW BEERS: We’re brewing 4 German beers specifically for Oktoberfest, plusGERMAN FOOD: La Kura Food Truck will have German-inspired dishes—everything from Bratwurst & Schnitzel Sandwiches to Chicken Doner & Pretzels (served with beer cheese!), activities + Stein Holding Contest, Craft Fair, Live Music by Audio Mynde & Vinly Countdown. For tickets & more: Click Here

Pleasant Hill World Fusion Festival: Experience a world of flavors, music, and artistry at the World Fusion Festival! This FREE event in Pleasant Hill Park brings together food trucks, live performances, and a marketplace of handcrafted goods from around the globe. Don’t miss this lively celebration of culture and community! World Fusion Festival is brought to you by Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District — more info


September. 14

Oktoberfest at Del Cielo (Livermore): Join Del Cielo for an Oktoberfest Celebration which includes Food Specials // Festbier Release // Live Music from Polkalicious — more info


September. 18

Contra Costa Business Conference

Contra Costa Business Conference: This September, join Red Box Business Solutions at the Contra Costa Business Conference in Brentwood and network with some of the best in the business. At the conference, you will learn about: How to GROW your company significantly in this unique business climate. Best practices for PROTECTING your company from legal and technical compliance pitfalls. Remarkable strategies to efficiently harness AI in business. How to maximize your return with legal and technical teams — more info + tickets

Antioch Big Truck Day: the City of Antioch Recreation Department will host its sixth annual Big Truck Day– a day that gives families and kids of all ages an opportunity to learn more about local companies and the large vehicles they use to keep our community safe and green. Enjoy food truck options brought to you by Foodie Crew, while you explore fire engines, school buses, tractors, and many more vehicles that help our city function. Truck/Vehicle Registration Forms will open Monday, July 28, 2025 and close Friday, September 12, 2025 — more info.


September 19

Oakley Rotary Club Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament: Rotary Club of Oakley presents its second annual Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament Fundraiser to benefit its signature community project, the Annual Christmas Food and Toy program.  Formerly provided by the Friends of Oakley, the program serves some 250 Oakley families in need around the holidays. Come join us for a fun night benefiting a good cause. Each ticket includes buffet dinner, one drink ticket and tournament play — tickets & more info


September. 20

Heart of Oakley: Heart of Oakley Festival is an annual open-air market that brings local makers, families, and community members together. Join us as we highlight local businesses and community members during this exciting event from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Civic Center Plaza! Visit the Heart of Oakley Festival Website.

Benicia Oktoberfest & Marketplace: Join us for a day of German culture, food, music, and fun in the heart of downtown Benicia!
Raise your steins and celebrate the spirit of Oktoberfest at First Street Green. Whether you’re a fan of bratwurst and beer or simply love a good time with family and friends, this community celebration has something for everyone — more info + tickets

Antioch Coastal Cleanup: Do you wish to see less litter around our marine? On Saturday, September 20th join California’s more than 35,000 volunteers in cleaning up local areas and waterways for Coastal Cleanup Day. Register now and be part of our group of volunteers at the Antioch Water Park and the Antioch Marina. Let’s keep trash out of our waterways! — More Info

California Coastal Cleanup: California Coastal Cleanup Day is the country’s largest annual volunteer event. Each September volunteers remove hundreds of thousands of pounds of trash from the state’s beaches, lakes, and waterways — more info

Pittsburg: Day on the Green Car Show: Join the City of Pittsburg for a its annual Day on the Green Car Show at Buchanan park from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm – customs, classics, rods, imports along with live music and food (Buchanan Park, 4150 Harbor Street, Pittsburg) – more info

2025 Youth Summit: Hosted by Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston, the 2025 Youth Summit is your launchpad to the future! This full-day, high-energy event is designed for students in grades 6–12 to unlock their potential, discover new passions, and build the confidence to lead in a rapidly changing world. Get ready for powerful keynote speakers, interactive workshops, career and college exploration, and meaningful conversations around tech, climate action, leadership, wellness, and more. Whether you’re dreaming big, building your path, or finding your voice—this is the place to be inspired and take the next step forward — more info & register


September 20-21

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Lafayette Art & Wine Festival: The 2025 Lafayette Art & Wine Festival will be held September 20-21, 10 am-6 pm in Downtown Lafayette, CA. Featuring 4 stages with 20+ bands, 300 artist / craft booths, 4 kid zones, a wide selection of California varietals and craft beers, local dining + shopping! Free admission. Take BART to the Festival! It’s BARTable! Beautiful downtown Lafayette is a short walk from BART (Lafayette Station), just off the Central Lafayette exit of Highway 24, and convenient to local bike trails. Insider tip: park at any BART station and take BART to the Lafayette Station! Free Festival parking is available in the BART Lafayette Station parking lots with an easy walk or free shuttle ride to the Festival. Complimentary bike valet is located at 81 Lafayette Circle. View music schedule, map and learn more at https://lafayettefestival.com.


September 21

Downtown Brentwood Coalition Harvest Table at City Park: join the the Downtown Brentwood Coalition for an unforgettable evening with a 6 course dinner as they celebrate the bounty of Brentwood’s rich agricultural heritage! This is a dinner curated by some of our favorite local restaurants, all set under the stars in beautiful City Park. — tickets


September 25 

Hops for Hospice (Danville): Please join us for a fun-filled evening of community, games, beer, food, auctions and more! Let’s celebrate the many programs and services that make Hospice East Bay so unique. Your general admission ticket includes event entry, beverages, amazing food, and most importantly, friendship and fun! We will be outside on the patio enjoying music, playing some trivia games and checking out the amazing auction items — more info + tickets.


September 26-27

Walnut Creek Oktoberfest: It’s time to clink glasses and lift your spirits with Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit — a toast to cheers and good times — in honor of the upcoming fall season and popular Oktoberfest celebration. Join us in the biergarten or on the dance floor for another epic Oktoberfest in Walnut Creek. It’s a great place to show off your dirndl dress or don the lederhosen (not mandatory!). This 2-day-long, family-friendly event recreates the beloved German fall celebration. Oktoberfest will include live entertainment, music, dancing, gourmet food and dozens of artisan vendors, arts & crafts, biergarten with dozens of craft beers, wine, international music, Kinder Platz Kids Zone. — more info

September 27 

Tomato Day at Smith Family Farms (Brentwood): Tomato Day is our most anticipated day of the year—a celebration of peak-season produce, delicious food, and family-friendly fun on the farm. Unlimited food samples and one pumpkin from the patch included with admission. Ticketed event — click here for tickets.

Stroll For Gold Fun Run and Walk: Come join our annual Stroll For Gold Fun Run and Walk and help raise money to assist families and children affected by childhood cancer. We will have a 5k fun run/walk, snacks, water, informational booths, as well as medals for the top 3 runners.  Registration and bib pick up will happen morning of run/walk starting at 8am. — sign up!

Corgi Con (Alameda County Fairgrounds): Ready fur the largest Corgi event in Northern Corgifornia?! Come spend a day with your fluffy stumpers and celebrate all things Corgi! We will have all our derptastic events and some new surprises up our sleeves! More info!

September 28

Martinez Run For Education: The Run for Education is the signature fundraiser for the Martinez Education Foundation. The race began in 2002 as a 5K race with 200 participants and has grown into an event that regularly hosts more than 500 runners, walkers, and rollers. In 2024, the leadership of the Martinez Refining Company created a Golf Tournament for the Monday of Run for Education week. Between the Golf Tournament, Family Fun Night, and the Run itself, over $250,000 was raised during our MRC-MEF Run for Education Week!  Proceeds from race entries, sponsorships, and Family Fun Night impact our students directly by being awarded to the Martinez Unified School District schools in the form of grants from MEF. — More info + sign up!

October 1

Livermore Witches Night Out: Dining and Cocktails at Participating Restaurants and Shopping at Retail Shops


October 4

Antioch Rhythms by the River: Join us for a celebration of music, food, and fun at the Rhythms by the River Fall Festival! Set against the beautiful backdrop of the river, this event promises a day full of entertainment and excitement for all ages. Highlights include a music stage, a beer and wine garden, a cornhole tournament, food trucks, vendors and even a special zone for kids games and activities. Mark your calendars! You wont want to miss this! More info

CBCA Clayton Oktoberfest: On October 4th and 5th, join us beneath the stunning Mt. Diablo in downtown Clayton for Northern California’s most authentic Oktoberfest celebration! Experience the best of Bavarian tradition with lively music, delicious food, a authentic biergarten, a full size carnival with amusement rides—all in a breathtaking setting. — More Info

Rotary Club of the Delta 5th Annual Corn Hole Tournament: The Rotary Club of the Delta invites you to register for our 5th Annual Cornhole Tournament. Come out and have some good, old-fashioned fun with friends. This year we are very excited to have our tournament in conjunction with Celebrate Antioch Foundation’s Rhythms by the River Fall Festival in downtown Antioch’s Rivertown District with Great Live Music, Kids Zone, Craft Vendors, Great Local Wine & Beer, Geat BBQ and Food. This is a Fun, Family Friendly Event with Free Entry and Parking.  More Info

6th Annual Benicia Family Fall Fest: Come join us at City Park for a day filled with fun activities for the whole family. Get ready for live music, delicious food, exciting games, and more! Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones at this year’s event. Mark your calendars and get ready for a day of laughter and joy! See you at the 6th Annual Family Fall Fest Benicia! — more info


October 11

Downtown Brentwood Coalition Oktoberfest: The Downtown Brentwood Coalition’s Annual Oktoberfest is coming back on Saturday, October 11th from 1pm-7pm in Downtown Brentwood.  This years event features , The Sierra Nevada Biergarten, live bands, Fun Zone including craft stations by Created by You, local performers & demonstrations, Richie Bee One-Man-Circus and more. Fun for all ages including teens, Lockeford Sausage plus a variety of delicious food choices from local vendors to downtown restaurants, Beer Stein Games, Weiner Dog Costume Parade, Local Wine from Contra Costa Wine Growers, An Oktoberfest Market sponsored by The Makers Boulevard on First & Oak Streets,  and much more! — more info.

Free Fishing Day (Waldie Plaza & Antioch Public Fishing Pier): Sign up to be part of the 37th annual free Kids Fishing Derby taking place this October 11th from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Held in the memory of Antioch resident “Compy” Compomizzo who inspired the mission statement: “Get kids hooked on fishing, not drugs or gangs.”, the fishing derby provides the opportunity to teach kids fifteen and younger conservation and the basics of fishing competition that may spur an interest in future events. Register the day of the event to join in on this exciting afternoon filled with great catches! **If you have your own fishing poles, please bring them. For those that do not have fishing equipment, there will be poles for you to borrow.  This event is made possible through the great partnership between the California Striped Bass Association, West Delta Chapter and the City of Antioch Recreation Department. — sign up!

10th Annual Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk (Oakley): This year marks a decade of hope, healing, and community support. Together, we’ve walked to raise awareness, fight stigma, and save lives. Your participation in the 10th Annual Out of the Darkness Walk will not only honor the memory of those we’ve lost but also strengthen our shared mission to prevent suicide and support mental health. This event offers a variety of activities for all ages, plus a meaningful Honor Bead Ceremony to recognize and honor those who’ve touched our hearts. This family-friendly, pet-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity to come together in a spirit of compassion and solidarity.  For more details, updates, and to register, please visit our website or email us at [email protected].

Livermore Bikes & Brew: We are excited to bring our community, local breweries, businesses and schools together for a 1-day, multi-brewery bicycle tour and after-party. This event raises funds from ticket sales, an online auction and in-person raffle to purchase bikes, helmets and locks for local children who need them. — more info.

Lumpy’s Diner Car Show & Pineup Contest: Contra Costa County’s HOTTEST Car Show & Pin Up Contest of the year at Lumpy’s Diner! Hosted by Pastimez CC. Gear up for chrome, horsepower, and style. From vintage beauties to souped-up customs. Pin-Up Contest – Channel your inner retro queen and strut your stuff for a chance to win $500! To register email [email protected] – spots are limited!. Live music by DJ Lisa Lisa, Raffles, Local Vendors, Family fun and the best diner eats in town! Shine up your ride, grab the family, and let’s pack the lot for a night of horsepower and hometown pride! Located at 891 Lone Tree Way, Antioch, CA

Martinez Zombie Crawl: Zombie Brew Crawl in Downtown Martinez, where the undead are on a mission to sample over 30 craft beers from local breweries!  Join the fun in your best zombie costume for a chance to win prizes.  Whether you’re a craft beer lover or just looking for a spooky good time.  This hauntingly hoppy event promises a day of undead fun, so grab your tasting pass & get ready to shuffle through downtown! More info!

Diwali – Festival at Lights at Alameda County Fairgrounds: Come join us for a spectacular celebration of lights, laughter, and love at Diwali Dhamaka Dhamaka! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of this joyous festival!! Enjoy the Spectacular Fireworks show that will light up the sky and Effigy burning of Raavan! Indulge in a feast of delicious Indian cuisine at the Great Indian Food Festival featuring many vendors serving Cuisine from across India. Dance to the rhythmic beats of traditional music. — more info.


October 12

San Ramon Run for Education: Join the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation’s 42nd Run for Education on Sunday, October 12th. Walk or run with friends, family, neighbors, teammates, and colleagues in support of the schools. Come for The Run and stay for the fun: enjoy the kids’ zone, inflatable games, face painter, exhibitor booths, and more! The Run for Education is a community tradition in the San Ramon Valley spanning more than 40 years. By participating, you are helping fund STEAM grants and innovative programs across our 35 San Ramon Valley Unified School District public schools representing the communities of Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon — more info


October 16-19

TASTE:  Livermore Valley’s premier food and wine affair spans four delectable days from Thursday, October 16th through Sunday, October 19th, 2025. The event kicks off on Thursday evening at a new location, Wente Family Vineyards with “Taste Our Terroir,” Livermore Valley Wine Country’s Signature Food and Wine Pairing Competition. Here, twenty wineries and local chefs craft perfect culinary fusions, judged by experts and guests, culminating in a celebration with indulgent desserts and winning teams.   The weekend continues with unique and intimate events, including scenic vineyard hikes, hands-on cooking classes, sommelier-led tastings, signature varietal celebrations like Cluck, Cluck Cab Franc and the Ocean & Vine Sauvignon Blanc Social, an elegant winemaker dinner, and a glamorous masquerade under the stars, showcasing our award-winning wines and winemakers. More info + tickets


October 18

Brentwood Rotary Hosts Digs & Rigs:  a fun, family-friendly event taking place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Cornerstone Church (back parking lot) in Brentwood. This hands-on experience invites kids and families to climb on and explore a variety of construction equipment, utility trucks, emergency vehicles, and more. The event also features educational demonstrations, a kid zone, food trucks, and interactive exhibits highlighting careers in public service, construction, and transportation. General admission is just $5, with all proceeds supporting local Rotary projects. No pets, alcohol, or tobacco are allowed. Digs and Rigs is a sensory-friendly—meaning no horns, sirens, or flashing lights. Vehicle exhibitors are welcome to participate. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to support this community-focused event. — More info + tickets

Pittsburg Chamber Halloween Spooktacular: Get ready for a family-friendly day of Halloween fun at the Century Plaza Shopping Center! Join us on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for games, music, and spooky surprises. Event will include games, live DJ & costume contest with free jumpies for the kid. There is also a free pumpkin giveaway (1 free pumpkin to the first 250 families) + goodie bags.  Bonus Treat: The first 300 guests will receive a ticket for a FREE Halloween movie, courtesy of Maya Cinemas. The movie begins at 1:30 PM right after the event!

Witching Wine Walk (Benicia): Witches descend upon downtown to sample wine at participating businesses—dare to join them? Costumes are welcome.


October 19

Antioch Fall-O-Ween: Join the City of Antioch for its annual Fall-O-Ween celebration at the Antioch Water Park! The event will last from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy trunk or treating outside of the park, before entering the park to play games, join costume and pumpkin carving contests, get your face painted and so much more! — more info.

Pawstoberfest 2025 – Brentwood: Come join us at City Park for a fun-filled day celebrating our furry friends! This in-person event will feature exciting activities, delicious treats, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with fellow pet lovers. Don’t miss out on the chance to make unforgettable memories with your pets! — more info

October 25

Antioch Rivertown Trunk or Treat – Car and Bike Show: Located in the Historic Downtown Antioch, there is a Pet Costume Contest @ 11:30am, a Kids Costume Contest @ 12:00pm, Store-to-Store Trick or Treating begins at 12:00pm. There will be Monster Truck rides a kids zone, Music and Vendors and it is FREE TO THE PUBLIC — more info

Brentwood Hometown Halloween: Join the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce for Hometown Halloween with a Wizards, Wands & Wonders themed event from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm in downtown Brentwood (Oak St & First Street. This is a youth friendly, free event, for a night of trick or treating.  — More Info

8th Annual Bedford Block Party (Antioch)Join us for our 8th Annual Bedford Block Party on Saturday, October 25 from 2-5 PM! The private, VIP party will take place at the historic Beede Manor in Antioch. Festivities will include a delicious Mexican feast, refreshments, music by DJ Chuck Waterhouse, and of course, our annual bocce ball tournament! Proceeds will help fund scholarships, meals, program activities, art, music, physical and occupational therapies; any and all items that will bring smiles and joy to the lives of our beloved participants at The Bedford Center for Adult Day Health Care. For decades, The Bedford Center has provided community-based services for older adults and people with disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other chronic conditions. Our focus is to keep our vulnerable friends out of institutions while giving their caregivers much-needed and deserved respite, education, and support.  — More info

Downtown Martinez Annual Halloween Spooktacular – A Boo-tiful Celebration for the Whole Family! Downtown Martinez & Co. is thrilled to invite you to our spooktacular Halloween celebration! Join us for an afternoon of ghoulishly delightful activities at the downtown annual Halloween Spooktacular presented by Martinez Refining Company in collaboration with local businesses. Explore creatively themed and decorated car trunks lined up for a spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat experience. Local businesses and community members will be handing out candies and treats to little goblins and ghosts. Engage your little ones with a variety of kid-friendly crafts and games! From creative crafts to exciting games, there’s something for every young trick-or-treater. The event will take place downtown inside participating businesses, on the street and at the Plaza on Main Street. Event is Free to public. Don’t forget to bring a bag for all the goodies! If you are a local business and would like to participate in Trick or Treat Spooktacular please sign up. — click here

Fall Fun Day Serendipity Cellars 2025: celebrate Fall at Serendipity Cellars on Saturday October 25th 2025!  Enjoy our regular hours from Noon – 5:00pm, with seating available on a first-come basis. For those who book a tasting flight online, a table will be reserved for you and the # of guests tasting in your party. We’ll have vendors to shop from, food trucks, and activities for the kids (ages 10 and under). A trick-or-treat bag to fill with goodies from our vendors, along with a coloring book and crayons. (While supplies last). Plus, fun craft activities (While supplies last) — more info

Sugar Barge Halloween Bash: Join Sugar Barge on Bethel Island for its Halloween bash from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm for music and dancing. This is a 21+ event. Open to the public w/costume contest, raffles, no host bar, $20 PP and more — more info.

Benicia Halloween Costume Contest & Sidewalk Stroll: Benicia Main Street offers a great time for kids of all ages during the popular Halloween costume contest and sidewalk stroll. The local merchants on First Street get into the spirit of the holiday for all to shop and enjoy. At noon there will be a Canine & Critter Costume Contest on the First Street Green with awards and treats.


October 26

Pleasant Hill Chalk Festival and Halloween Spooktacular: Come watch talented local artists create life-sized chalk murals! Kids can create their own masterpieces at the Kids Chalk Zone and enjoy face painting, balloon art, a photo booth, free cotton candy, and a goodie bag (while supplies last) — more info!


For other upcoming events, visit our events calendar.

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