Fall Fun Awaits in South Seattle

Witches Tea at Marina Mercantile

Seattle Southside offers some of the region’s most underrated fall color—without the crowds. From the golden coastal views of Saltwater State Park to the tree-lined Des Moines Beach Park & Des Moines Creek Trail, autumn is in full display. Stroll the serene Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden and its Japanese Seike Garden, which is especially vibrant in the fall. Families can soak in the season at Fort Dent Park and Angle Lake Park, both dotted with fiery fall foliage. For the perfect seasonal cap, stop by Zenith Holland Nursery to pick out pumpkins and fall décor before heading home. This is far more than a plant store—the Halloween section is perfect for festive photo opps, and the large, well-curated gift shop features everything from upscale candles and home goods to cozy, globally sourced apparel to baby and pet gifts. 

Mark the calendar, fall fun is on the way!

Glow Ball at Foster Golf Links – September 26, 2025

As the days get shorter, golfers enjoy a unique nighttime round at Glow Ball, playing 9 holes using glow-in-the-dark balls and illuminated gear under the stars at Foster Golf Links. Teams of two compete in an alternate-shot format, with entry set at $60 per person—including glowing swag and a $10 gift card to Billy Baroo’s bar & grill. Pro golf shop registration is required (call 206-242-4221).

The Haunted Escape Room Experience at Seattle Chocolate Factory - Thursdays–Saturdays, October 2–25, 2025

Step aboard Greg Glitter’s glitter-soaked spaceship for a 50-minute escape room adventure to a haunted planet in search of the fabled cosmic cacao. Solve puzzles, navigate a ghostly garden, and you might just take home a chocolate treasure. Hosted at the Seattle Chocolate Factory, this sweet and spooky challenge is $30 per person.

Witches Tea at Marina Mercantile – Offered throughout October 2025

The beloved Witches Tea returns this October to Marina Mercantile, offering a whimsical afternoon of spooky treats, savory bites, and mystical table décor in a charming waterfront setting. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their witchiest attire—cloaks, hats, and familiars welcome—and enjoy a bewitching experience complete with cauldrons, crystal balls, and broom parking. This enchanting fall tradition books up quickly, so grab your coven and make a reservation before it vanishes into the mist.

Burien’s Brat Trot & Oktoberfest – October 4, 2025

This festive event starts with a 5K race for adults and a 1K fun run for kids, followed by an Oktoberfest celebration at Town Square Park with live music, local brews, bratwurst, pretzels, root beer gardens, and family games. Held in partnership with the Highline Schools Foundation, it’s a vibrant community fundraiser with both race registration and Oktoberfest ticket options. Kids’ activities and brew-tasting tokens create a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

The Museum of Fright – October 26, 2025

During The Museum of Fright, the Museum of Flight transforms for a family-friendly Halloween experience featuring spooky storytelling, Día de Muertos craft tables, and themed science workshops. Children in costume (17 and under) often enjoy free or discounted admission, along with music performances, face painting, and gallery installations with a creepy twist. It’s an interactive blend of history, aviation exhibits, and festive fun.

Sloth Festival, October 18, 2025

Join the Highline Heritage Museum for International Sloth Day to celebrate the region’s own giant ground sloth, or megalonyx, discovered under SeaTac Airport—now the museum’s sloth mascot! The event blends local history, family-friendly exhibits, and hands-on activities centered around sloth lore and conservation.

Fall Foliage Festival & Plant Sale – November 8–9, 2025

The Fall Foliage Festival at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden features scenic seasonal color displays and a plant sale with nursery-grade specimens offered to visitors. Additional offerings include garden tours, a kids’ scavenger hunt, and food truck service (Saturday only), often with free admission or member discounts. It’s a serene way to immerse in the best of the Pacific Northwest’s autumn beauty while exploring rare rhododendron varieties.