As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on that crisp autumn edge, breweries across the Mid-South and Central Plains are preparing to celebrate the season with festivals that go far beyond the pint glass. From pumpkin patches to live music and local markets, these six individual breweries are hosting fall events that reflect the unique character of their communities. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a scenic road trip with seasonal flair, this list offers a perfect blend of local culture, fall flavors, and regional charm.
Let’s Visit These 6 Breweries This Fall
1. Spoetzl Brewery – Shiner, Texas
Event: Pumpkin Patch & Market Day
Date: September 27, 2025
Located in the heart of Shiner, Texas, Spoetzl Brewery is steeped in over a century of brewing tradition. Their annual Pumpkin Patch & Market Day is a beloved local celebration that transforms the brewery grounds into a festive autumn market. Visitors can browse handmade goods from regional artisans, enjoy live music, and take photos among the pumpkins and hay bales. Shiner’s seasonal lineup includes their popular Oktoberfest and the subtly spiced Shiner Bock Autumn Ale, perfect for sipping while strolling the market. Shiner is my beer of choice, and Spoetzl is one of the most community-driven breweries. The event is family-friendly and a true reflection of small-town Texas hospitality.
2. Dead Armadillo Brewery – Tulsa, Oklahoma
Event: Fall Bash
Date: October 2025 (Exact date TBD)
Tulsa’s Dead Armadillo Brewery brings a laid-back, community-driven vibe to its annual Fall Bash. Held in their outdoor beer garden, the event features local food trucks, live music from Oklahoma artists, and a rotating tap list of fall-inspired brews like their Pumpkin Porter and Autumn IPA. The brewery’s location near downtown Tulsa makes it a convenient stop for locals and travelers alike. With fire pits, cornhole tournaments, and as with most breweries, a welcoming crowd, Dead Armadillo’s celebration is a cozy way to enjoy the season.
3. Lost Forty Brewing – Little Rock, Arkansas
Event: Forest Fest
Date: October 19, 2025
Lost Forty Brewing, named after a legendary untouched forest in Arkansas, hosts Forest Fest each fall to honor the natural beauty of the region. The event includes a backyard-style cookout with Arkansas-style barbecue, live Americana music, and a showcase of their seasonal beers like the Forest King Imperial Stout and Rockhound Red Ale. Guests can tour the brewery, meet local artists, and enjoy the rustic charm of Little Rock’s creative community. Forest Fest is a celebration of Arkansas heritage and the changing season, all wrapped up in a pint glass.
4. Free State Brewing Co. – Lawrence, Kansas
Event: Autumn Ale Release Party
Date: September 28, 2025
Free State Brewing Co. in Lawrence is Kansas’s first legal brewery since Prohibition, and their Autumn Ale Release Party is a nod to both history and harvest. The event features brewery tours, local food pairings, and the debut of their seasonal brews like the Ad Astra Amber and the limited-release Harvest Rye. Set in the vibrant college town of Lawrence, the party draws a mix of students, locals, and beer lovers from across the state. With its historic downtown and tree-lined streets, Lawrence offers a picturesque backdrop for fall festivities.
5. Great Raft Brewing – Shreveport, Louisiana
Event: Lager Jogger Fall Edition
Date: October 12, 2025
Great Raft Brewing combines fitness and festivity with its Lager Jogger Fall Edition, a fun run followed by a full-blown Oktoberfest celebration. Participants jog through scenic Shreveport before returning to the brewery for German-style lagers, bratwurst, and live music. Their fall beer lineup includes the Southern Drawl Pilsner and the seasonal Festbier, both brewed with precision and Southern flair. The event is a favorite among locals for its energetic atmosphere and community spirit, making it a unique way to welcome autumn in Louisiana.
6. Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. – Fort Worth, Texas
Event: Oktoberfest Celebration
Date: September 21, 2025
Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. brings Bavarian tradition to Fort Worth with its annual Oktoberfest Celebration. The brewery transforms into a lively beer garden complete with stein-holding contests, polka bands, and authentic German fare. Their seasonal offerings include the Rahr Oktoberfest Märzen and the Texas Red Amber Lager, both perfect companions to a bratwurst and pretzel. Located in the historic Near Southside district, Rahr’s event is a blend of old-world charm and Texas pride, drawing crowds that appreciate great breweries.
Final Thoughts
This list of fall brewery festivals in the Mid-South and Central Plains offers more than just great beer—it’s an invitation to explore the culture, scenery, and community spirit of five states during one of the most beautiful times of year. As you travel from the pine forests of Arkansas to the rolling plains of Kansas and the small towns of Texas, you’ll witness the changing leaves, meet the passion behind these breweries, and experience the warmth of regional hospitality.
If you’re planning to visit more than one of these unique breweries, consider making it a weekend road trip. Always remember while the beer will be flowing, it’s important to plan ahead: bring a designated driver, use rideshare services, and stay overnight nearby. Enjoy the season responsibly so the memories—and the flavors—last.
Disclaimer
Please drink responsibly. This article is for informational purposes only and does not endorse excessive alcohol consumption. Event dates and details are subject to change; check with each brewery for the most current information.
