3 things to do in Cleveland in September

Fall semester at Case Western Reserve University is always a busy time, as the football season kicks off, homecoming plans are established and students navigate a new year of courses. 

In between these commitments and celebrations, students, faculty and staff have plenty of opportunities to get out and explore Cleveland in September. Consider marking these three events on your calendar for the month ahead.

Take a look at the Destination Cleveland website to find more.

College Fest 2026

Sept. 9

Case Western Reserve University students have the opportunity to gather with other college students in the area for a free evening at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. College Fest 2026 will be held Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 6 to 9 p.m. 

In addition to exclusive after-hours access to the museum, the event will feature an evening of networking, career exploration and opportunities to connect with representatives from more than 80 regional employers. 

The Greater Cleveland Partnership will host the event with the support of Cleveland Talent Alliance.

Register to reserve your spot.

Waterloo Arts Fest

Sept. 12

Explore one of the most creative neighborhoods in Cleveland—the Waterloo Arts District—at the annual Waterloo Arts Fest Saturday, Sept. 12, from noon to 7 p.m. This east side-neighborhood along the lake is known for its vibrancy and arts galleries, music venues and more.

During the Waterloo Arts Fest, over 90 vendors will share their work, more than 40 bands and musicians will perform on eight stages, and activities will be hosted throughout the neighborhood for all ages.

Attendees are asked to reserve tickets in advance. A $10 donation is suggested, but not required. 

View the full vendor and artist lineup and get a ticket.

Farm Harvest Festival

Sept. 26

Spend a Saturday at the University Farm in Hunting Valley. The annual Farm Harvest Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the farm (37125 Fairmount Blvd.). 

Open to students, faculty, staff, postdocs, alumni and their families, the Farm Harvest Festival features entertainment, hay rides, a field maze, a pumpkin trebuchet, self-guided hikes, yard games and more. It also provides an opportunity for members of the CWRU community to learn more about the Farm Food Program. 

Attendees will be able to pet alpacas, taste apple cider, assemble s’mores, check out the Department of Biology’s research field station and more. 

A shuttle will run to and from campus.

Learn more about the event and keep an eye out for shuttle information on CampusGroups.