September in West Michigan is filled with festivals that celebrate food, culture, art, and community. Whether you’re looking for authentic Mexican cuisine, live music, dumplings from around the world, or a classic Oktoberfest celebration, the month is packed with events worth marking on your calendar.
Fiesta Mexicana 2025
September 12–14 | Calder Plaza, Grand Rapids
Fiesta Mexicana returns for its 56th year at Calder Plaza. This three-day celebration highlights Mexican culture, history, and traditions through music, dance, food, and carnival fun. As one of the city’s oldest ethnic festivals, it shines a spotlight on the contributions of the Mexican-American community in West Michigan.
Tech Week 2025
September 15–20 | Grand Rapids
Tech Week is back with a week of speakers, showcases, and hands-on workshops. Designed as a participant-driven “unconference,” the event brings together innovators and leaders from across the country to exchange ideas and highlight Grand Rapids’ growing role in technology and innovation.
Michigan Apple Fest
September 19–20 | Sparta
Sparta hosts Michigan Apple Fest, a two-day event filled with contests, vendors, music, and family activities. Highlights include apple pie eating contests, trivia, Native American cultural presentations, hayrides, artisan markets, and plenty of live music. It’s a true small-town celebration of Michigan’s apple harvest.
Dumpling Fest 2025
September 20 | 555 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids
Dumpling Fest brings flavors from around the world to downtown Grand Rapids for one day only. Visitors can enjoy dumplings from a wide range of cultures in a riverside setting, along with family-friendly activities and a community atmosphere. The event is presented by the Grand Rapids Asian Pacific Foundation in partnership with ArtPrize.
Donut & Beer Fest
September 20 | LMCU Ballpark, Comstock Park
With over 200 donuts and 150 craft beverages, the Donut & Beer Fest is the largest festival of its kind in the country. Held at LMCU Ballpark, the event features donut eating contests, yard games, live music, and more. Tickets include samples, a souvenir cup, and access to a full day of sweet and savory indulgence.
Fallasburg Arts Festival
September 20–21 | Fallasburg Park, Lowell
The Fallasburg Arts Festival celebrates its 57th year with more than 100 fine art and craft booths, demonstrations, food vendors, children’s activities, and live music. This free event takes place in the scenic setting of Fallasburg Park and has become a staple of the local arts calendar.
Oktoberfest GR 2025
September 26–27 | Riverside Park, Grand Rapids
Oktoberfest GR brings Bavarian traditions to Riverside Park with authentic beers, wines, food, and music. Highlights include the keg toss, the Dachshund Dash, and plenty of activities for kids. Admission is free, though tickets are required for alcohol purchases.
Wrap-Up
From international flavors to local traditions, September offers something for everyone in West Michigan. These festivals highlight the cultural diversity and community spirit that make the region stand out. Plan ahead, bring your friends and family, and enjoy a month filled with music, food, and celebration.