Amidst a fading summer and the crisp promise of fall lies none other than the bittersweet month of September. This seasonal limbo can be difficult to navigate, but don’t fret! There are plenty of exciting events still happening throughout the city to beat the mid-September slump, bid summer a proper adieu and leap into fall.

Here are four ways to embrace the changing of seasons and find the perfect medium between water, ice and pumpkin spice with concerts, festivals and more!

New York Burlesque Festival

Swap bikinis for boas at the 20th annual New York Burlesque festival showcasing glitter, tights and lots (and lots) of skin. From Sept. 29 to Oct. 2, Burlesque stars from around the world will be strutting their stilettos across four incredible venues and nights–with two shows in Brooklyn and two in Manhattan. Tickets for each night are available for purchase online, so be sure to reserve your seat for the glamorous eruption of all that is burlesque and an unforgettable night.

Pier 17 Concert Series

Spend a night at The Rooftop Pier 17 listening to some live music whilst taking in the view of the shimmering skyline. This series will run from Sept. 30 to Oct. 29, with tickets available for purchase online or at the box office. You can even sip on a premium drink or order a gourmet snack from the concession stand to enjoy mid-concert, so be sure to snag your ticket soon and take advantage of the last warm nights of the season. 

Oktoberfest

What began over 200 years ago as a royal wedding celebration in Munich, Germany has transformed into the world’s largest folk festival. Today, Oktoberfest is embraced across the globe as a celebration of Bavarian culture featuring traditional cuisine and entertainment. There are a wide variety of locations to choose from throughout the city, so students can enjoy a big pretzel without having to leave the Big Apple. The Oktoberfest festivities nearest the University will be taking place until Oct. 31 at The Waterfront Bar at Pier 15. This event is free to attend; just be sure to RSVP via their website beforehand. Throw on lederhosen and head on down for some bratwurst and (for students 21+ ) a frosted mug of authentic German beer. 

Brooklyn Folk Festival

Tune into the nostalgia of fall with the rhythmic banjo strumming and narrative lyricism of folk music. From Oct. 10 to 23, the Brooklyn Folk Festival will feature live performances of folk, traditional and vernacular music within the beautiful stained glass, acoustic walls of the historic St. Anne’s Church. You can even take part in square dancing, film screenings, workshops and a banjo toss competition! Tickets may be purchased online prior to arrival or at the door for just $5. But who knows, maybe you can barter a harmonica serenade for free entry; it’s worth a shot!