Looking to make your autumn more eventful? Race through tunnels of colorful trees and crunching leaves, cheer on a pack of sled dogs as they eagerly prepare for winter's anticipated UP200 races, get into the Halloween spirit with a paranormal lighthouse tour or binge-watch inspirational flicks between your pick of epic outdoor tours—whatever you're U.P. for, October in Marquette is filled with fall foliage and festivities.
U.P. Fall Beer Festival
Saturday, September 7
Held at the scenic Mattson Lower Harbor Park overlooking Lake Superior, the 15th annual U.P. Fall Beer Fest is a beloved event featuring over 500 craft beers from more than 85 Michigan breweries. Attendees can savor unique brews, enjoy live music and sample delicious food from local vendors. The festival’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning autumn setting make it an ideal way to celebrate the season.
Marquette Fall Enduro
Saturday, October 4-6
The Marquette Fall Enduro presents the ultimate mountain biking challenge, combining endurance with technical skill. Riders will tackle multiple timed downhill stages set against the fall scenery along Marquette’s South Trails. With a casual climb to start and stages of varying difficulty, this event promises an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for all participants.
Fall Phantasm: Journey through the Underworld
Saturday, October 5
Experience the enchantment of the Fall Phantasm at Lakenenland Sculpture Park. This day-long festival features fantastic sculpture creatures, live music and captivating theatrical performances. Attendees can enjoy dances, music, interactive activities and vendor booths, promising a creative celebration of theater, art and community.
Lake Superior Performance Rally
Friday-Saturday, October 11-12
Feel the rush at the historic Lake Superior Performance Rally, where speed, skill and stunning fall scenery collide. Watch cars race through colorful foliage and tackle the slopes of Marquette Mountain Resort's ski hill. The rally concludes with a lively party for competitors, volunteers and spectators, perfect for celebrating the season.
UP200 Dryland Dash
Saturday-Sunday, October 11-13
Experience the thrill of sled dog racing without the snow at the UP 200 Dryland Dash. Held at Negaunee Township Hall Park, this event features teams racing across scenic trails framed by Marquette’s stunning fall colors. Instead of traditional sleds, mushers use bicycles, scooters, wheeled rigs, or run alongside their dogs in canicross. With food trucks, vendor booths and family-friendly activities, this event offers a festive way to embrace the season while cheering on the incredible canine athletes.
Fresh Coast Film Festival
Thursday-Sunday, October 17-20
For a leisurely fall experience, the Fresh Coast Film Festival invites guests to celebrate the outdoor lifestyle, environment and spirit of the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest through documentary films. Attendees can enjoy inspiring films and premieres, meet film directors and documentary stars and sign up for outdoor tours exploring the Marquette area. This event provides a unique blend of cultural enrichment and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit for those passionate about the Great Lakes and their stories.
Queen City Trick or Trot
Saturday, October 26
For a fun-filled, seasonal experience the whole family will enjoy, sign up for the Queen City Trick or Trot 10K/5K Run/Walk and Kids Monster Mile on Saturday, October 26. Participants can savor Marquette’s autumn beauty along the race course while dressing up in their favorite spooky costumes for a chance to win exciting prizes at the costume contest. After the race, the celebration continues at the post-race party and awards ceremony at Ore Dock Brewing Company, where Halloween is celebrated in true Marquette style.
Downtown Marquette Fall Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 9 AM - 1 PM until mid-Dec.
Crisp autumn air and cooler weather paired with a hot coffee or cider—a fall morning really doesn't get any better than with a quick trip to the Farmers Market. From picking out the perfect U.P. pumpkin for your porch to selecting the best fresh produce for your favorite autumn recipe, the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market feels just a little more magical in the fall.
