Fall into fun this autumn with a playbook for the best family-friendly ways to spend it. Here are Ryan’s top 10 September 2026 events in Auburn and Opelika, full of hometown tradition, Friday-night energy and plenty to do before and after the big games. From community festivals and outdoor activities to markets, music and can’t-miss campus happenings, September is when our towns hit their stride.
6-Week Tuesday Night Spin at Still Point Clay Atelier, Sept. 1-Oct. 6
- What: Unleash your creativity at the Pottery Wheel Workshop at Still Point Clay Atelier, where beginners and seasoned potters can enjoy the art of clay crafting. Join a welcoming environment filled with guided practice and peer coaching to help you hone your skills. You’ll have the opportunity to create, glaze and fire up to 12 unique pieces. If Tuesdays don’t fit your schedule, explore other weekly options to embark on your artistic adventure.
- Where: 1775 Opelika Road, Suites 3 & 4, Auburn
- When: 6 to 8 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Open Mic Night in Opelika at The Dublin Loft at Irish Bred Pub, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
- What: Experience the local music scene every Wednesday with Open Mic Night at The Dublin Loft, hosted by The Irish Bred Pub. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a budding artist, the stage is yours to showcase your talent through solo acts, duos or acoustic sets. Enjoy a pint in hand as you listen to an amazing array of local artists. No cover charge, just an evening of music and community!
- Where: 833 South Railroad Ave., Opelika
- When: 7 to 10 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Lunar Lemonade Evening Hike at Chewacla, Sept. 4
- What: Experience the magic of Chewacla State Park under the moonlit sky with the Lunar Lemonade Evening Hike! This beginner-friendly adventure invites you to explore the tranquil trails while sipping on refreshing lemonade. As the sun sets, enjoy the symphony of nocturnal wildlife and discover nature’s glow-in-the-dark wonders. Perfect for adventurers of all ages.
- Where: Nature Center, 124 Shell Toomer Parkway, Auburn
- When: 6:30 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Kickoff on The Plains: AU Football vs. Southern Miss, Sept. 12
- What: Prepare for a high-energy day full of War Eagle pride! The much-anticipated “Kickoff on The Plains” is set to take over Jordan-Hare Stadium, marking the Auburn Tigers’ first home game in a new era against Southern Miss. Fans are encouraged to wear white!
- Where: 251 South Donahue Drive, Auburn University
- When: 6:30 p.m.
- Visit the website.
“Taste of Seoul” Tea on Thach at 1856 – Culinary Residence, Sept. 13 & 27
- What: Experience an elevated version of afternoon tea that celebrates the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Korea at the 1856 Culinary Residence’s next Tea on Thach event, “Taste of Seoul.” Sample a blend of Korean delicacies and traditional tea that brings to life Korea’s warm spirit of gathering.
- Where: 205 South College St., Auburn
- When: 2 to 3 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Free Wine Tasting at Pepper Tree, Sept. 17
- What: Cheers! Join fellow wine enthusiasts at Pepper Tree Steaks & Wine, where you’ll sample a curated selection of wines with delicious food pairings in a relaxed environment. Come find new favorites and mingle with new friends!
- Where: 2459 East Glenn Ave., Auburn
- When: 5 to 7 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Food Truck Friday, Sept. 18
- What: Savor the flavors in historic Downtown Opelika at the award-winning Food Truck Friday to kick off the fall season! Dine, stroll and sip your way through the streets, enjoying a varied lineup of food trucks, vendors, shops and live music.
- Where: South Railroad Avenue, Opelika
- When: 5 to 9 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Books Over Drinks with Kristy Woodson Harvey at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, Sept. 22
- What: Fall for reading this upcoming season! Start with an engaging evening featuring New York Times bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey, as she introduces her latest novel, Falling for Peachtree Bluff. Presented by Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, tickets include an author meet-and-greet, a signed copy of the book and a glass of wine. Can’t make it? Catch Kristy the following day at Lucy’s for a special lunch and lit!
- Where: 136 East Magnolia Ave., Auburn
- When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Sept. 25
- What: Bill and Carol Ham Amphitheatre at the Gogue Center presents Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit performing songs from their latest album, Foxes in the Snow. Experience Isbell’s first acoustic album in more than a decade, featuring deeply personal songs about transformation and truths. Don’t miss your chance to connect with some soul-stirring melodies!
- Where: 910 South College St., Auburn
- When: 7 p.m.
- Visit the website.
Fall Family Weekend and AU Homecoming, Sept. 25-27
- What: Celebrate the spirit of Auburn at the Fall Family Weekend, where tradition meets excitement! Enjoy activities like the largest tailgate on The Plains, with a mouthwatering barbecue and more. Cheer on the Tigers as they take on Vanderbilt in the Homecoming football game, and immerse yourself in the Auburn community with favorites like the homecoming parade and pep rally. Don’t forget to wear your favorite orange and blue attire for a memorable day at Jordan-Hare Stadium!
- Where: 277 Thach Concourse, Auburn University
- When: 11 a.m.
- Visit the website.
Summary
That’s the September rundown—cooler evenings, packed calendars and the kind of local buzz that feels like Auburn football season. Whether you’re catching open mic nights, trying your hand at spinning pottery or tailgating with friends, these September 2026 events in Auburn and Opelika are built for making memories close to home. Keep reading our blogs for more local event updates and community news.