September in Abilene: Family Fun, Food, and Festivals
Fall in Abilene, Kansas, is full of adventure, entertainment, and small-town charm. From live theatre to train rides, Oktoberfest to gravel bike racing, September is the perfect month to plan a getaway to America’s Best Small Town. Mark your calendar for these can’t-miss events:
Disney Pixar’s Finding Nemo Jr. at Great Plains Theatre
September 19–28
Take a dive under the sea with Finding Nemo Jr. at Great Plains Theatre. Follow the heartwarming journey of Marlin, Nemo, and friends like Dory and Crush in this vibrant musical featuring songs like “Just Keep Swimming” and “Go With the Flow.” Rated G, this performance is perfect for the entire family.
Showtimes:
Fridays at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
8th Annual Abilene Oktoberfest
September 19–20 | Downtown Abilene
Celebrate German heritage in the heart of Abilene! The 8th Annual Oktoberfest brings authentic German food, traditional dancers from Kansas City, and, of course, plenty of German beer. Kids will love the bounce houses, barrel train, and face painting, making this a festival for all ages. Gather your friends and family for two days of festive fun.
Wild West Gravel Fest
September 20
Cyclists from across the Midwest will roll into Abilene for the Wild West Gravel Fest. Riders can choose from a fun 50k ride, a competitive 100k, or a challenging 200k endurance course. More than a race, it’s a celebration of community, grit, and the wide-open Kansas landscape. Whether you’re pedaling or cheering, this event captures the adventurous spirit of Abilene.
Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Excursions
Saturday, September 13 – Dinner Train: Broadway Station Murder Mystery (6 p.m.)
Romance, pasta, and a whodunit! Enjoy a delicious Italian-inspired menu while solving “The Case of Love in the Ozarks” aboard the Eveland Creek car.
Saturday, September 20 – Flint Hills Express & Wheat State Family Diner (1 p.m.)
All aboard for a two-hour family excursion with a stop at Hoffman Mill. Boxed lunches from Brookville Hotel make this trip extra special.
Saturday, September 20 – Dinner Train: Brookville Hotel (6 p.m.)
Savor a Kansas tradition—Brookville Hotel’s famous fried chicken—on a relaxing evening ride through the Smoky Hill River Valley.
Saturday, September 27 – Dinner Train: Oktoberfest Celebration (6 p.m.)
Raise a toast with Schatzi’s Schnitzel Haus specialties, spaetzle, and German beer while celebrating Oktoberfest on the rails.
Plan Your September Visit to Abilene
From Broadway-style productions and lively festivals to pedal-powered adventures and train rides, September is brimming with experiences you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re bringing the family, a group of friends, or looking for a romantic weekend, Abilene is ready to welcome you with small-town hospitality and big-time fun.