What’s Happening on the South Shore This Weekend: October 2–4, 2026
October is officially here, and the South Shore is kicking off the month with fall festivals, live music, great food, Oktoberfest celebrations and plenty of family-friendly activities. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, here are a few events worth adding to your plans.
Quincy Food Truck & Music Festival
Come hungry! Quincy’s Food Truck & Music Festival takes over Coddington Street on Saturday, October 3, from noon to 6 p.m. More than 25 food and dessert trucks are expected, with everything from barbecue and lobster to tacos, Greek food, cannoli and whoopie pies.
There will also be live music throughout the afternoon, including the Mark Femino Band, Midtown Horns and an ABBA tribute band, plus kids’ entertainment and axe throwing. Admission is free. Discover Quincy
Rockland Fall Festival
Downtown Rockland is getting into the fall spirit Saturday with the 6th Annual Rockland Fall Festival. The celebration runs from 1–5 p.m. on Union Street and brings together local businesses, entertainment and community activities—including the festival’s popular Candy Drop. South Shore Home, Life & Style
It’s a great excuse to spend an afternoon downtown, support local businesses and enjoy one of the first big fall weekends of the season.
Fall Fest at Wildlands Trust in Plymouth
For something a little more laid-back, head to Wildlands Trust’s Davis-Douglas Farm in Plymouth on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
The free, rain-or-shine Fall Fest features live Irish music, local beer from Independent Fermentations, food, raffles and plenty of room to relax outside. Musicians are even encouraged to bring an instrument and join the Irish music session. Wildlands Trust
Oktoberfest at Stellwagen Beer Company
Oktoberfest continues Saturday at Stellwagen Beer Company in Marshfield.
Expect keg tossing, stein-holding competitions and plenty of Oktoberfest food, with Outer Isles serving sourdough pretzels with beer cheese, sausages, apple hand pies and a raw bar later in the afternoon. Stellwagen Beer Company
Abington Celebrates Oktoberfest Weekend
Abington is making an entire weekend out of the arrival of fall. Abington Celebrates Oktoberfest Weekend runs October 2–4, with a mix of markets, food, music, kids’ activities, a flea market and other community festivities. Abington Celebrates
If you’re looking for an easy local outing without traveling far, this is one to check out throughout the weekend.
Spend a Day at King Richard’s Faire
Want to trade the South Shore for the 16th century for a few hours? King Richard’s Faire continues Saturday and Sunday, October 3–4, with gates opening at 10:30 a.m.
The long-running Renaissance festival features performers, knights, artisans, food and entertainment spread throughout its sprawling festival grounds. The 2026 season marks the Faire’s 45th anniversary, and it continues on weekends through October 25. King Richard's Faire
Enjoy Fall on the South Shore
One of the best things about living on the South Shore is how much there is to do when fall arrives. You can spend Saturday eating your way through Quincy, celebrate Oktoberfest in Marshfield or Abington, enjoy an afternoon outdoors in Plymouth, or make a full family day out of King Richard’s Faire.
And if weekends like this have you thinking about making a move on the South Shore, Depend on Dakota is here to help you find the right place to call home.
Event details can change, so check with organizers before heading out.
