Published 8/31/24

September in Ferndale is a truly special time of year. The Victorian Village is at its most charming, with the perfect mix of warm weather, outdoor adventures, and community events. (Did you hear we were just named one of the 10 most charming small towns in America?)

So whether you’re here to enjoy a quiet escape or dive into local happenings, you’ll find plenty to do in this picturesque corner of Northern California. Here’s your guide to making the most of your visit in September 2024.

Stay in Ferndale and visit the redwoods. Ferndale makes an ideal home base for exploring the wonders of Northern California's redwood forests. Nestled between two iconic parks, the town is perfectly positioned for day trips to the majestic Avenue of the Giants to the south or Redwood National and State Parks to the north. After a day spent gazing up at the towering trees, return to Ferndale to relax in one of our cozy inns, motels, or vacation rentals. Enjoy the peace and quiet of a small town while staying close to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Beat the heat. September is typically Ferndale’s warmest month, but with average high temperatures around 73°F, you’ll still find our weather refreshingly mild. Enjoy sunny days and cool coastal breezes—perfect for exploring, outdoor activities, or attending a community event. The moderate climate makes Ferndale a wonderful place to escape from the hotter inland temperatures while still enjoying all the best that a California summer has to offer.

Enjoy our county fair. This year, the Humboldt County Fair continues through Labor Day (September 2), featuring carnival rides, livestock, entertainment, and exhibits ranging from art and flowers to quilts and dressed potatoes. September 2 will also offer free admission for veterans. Plus, an additional weekend of horse racing is scheduled for September 7-8, so come place your bets, cheer on your favorites, and soak up the festive atmosphere of one of Ferndale’s longstanding traditions.

Catch a comedy classic. Experience the magic of live theater at the Ferndale Repertory Theatre’s production of “Blithe Spirit,” running on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from September 13 through October 6. Known for its sharp wit and ghostly mischief, “Blithe Spirit” is sure to provide a night of laughs.

Show off your bocce skills. September is the perfect month to enjoy Firemen’s Park in Ferndale, with its bocce courts, basketball hoops, and playground. Feeling competitive? Gather up a team for Ferndale Rotary’s bocce tournament on September 14 and take part in a day of friendly competition and fun in a beautiful setting.

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Relax with live music. The Jimmy Dale Surf Trio returns to The Old Steeple, a popular church-turned-concert venue, on September 14. Known for their electrifying performances, the trio will bring classic surf rock vibes to the stage, continuing the legacy of Jimmy’s father, the legendary Dick Dale. For more live music, check out the schedules at local favorites The Boardroom and Tuyas Cantina, where you can hear talented local musicians while enjoying great food and atmosphere.

Admire automotive excellence. Ferndale Concours on Main returns for its seventh year on September 15! Car enthusiasts will flock to Ferndale for the North Coast’s most prestigious auto show, strolling down Main Street and admiring a dazzling array of vintage and classic cars, each meticulously restored and maintained. It’s a day of elegance and history set against the backdrop of Ferndale’s Victorian architecture. You can learn much more about the Ferndale Concours here on our blog.

Shop ‘til you drop. Ferndale’s famous Bargain Lovers’ Weekend kicks off on September 20. This town-wide yard sale event is a treasure hunter’s dream, with dozens of garage, barn, and sidewalk sales offering everything from antiques and collectibles to home goods and art. Whether you’re searching for a specific item or just browsing, this is the place to find a great deal and enjoy a fun, community-wide event. Need some tips? Read our interview with a local Bargain Lovers expert. And remember, Ferndale’s historic Main Street also offers year-round shopping you won’t find anywhere else.

Experience cycling thrills. Cycling enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Tour of the Unknown Coast, billed as California’s toughest century ride, on September 21. This grueling ride takes cyclists through some of the most stunning and challenging landscapes in Northern California, from the rugged coastline to the majestic redwoods. Registration for the 100-mile ride and the Avenue of the Giants 100k closes on September 18. Is spectating more your speed? (🙋🏻‍♀️) Spend the day in Ferndale and cheer on the riders as they come off Mattole Road and pedal to the finish line at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds.

Step back in time. On September 28, head to the Ferndale Museum’s “Fall Back” fundraiser to enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, cider pressing, and hay baling, as well as farm equipment displays and live and silent auctions. It’s a wonderful way to experience Ferndale’s rich agricultural history, enjoy a barbecue lunch, and support the local museum.

Sample locally grown produce and dairy products. September is a great time to savor the flavors of Ferndale, a real working farm town. Visit our farmstands and Main Street shops to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce, along with cheese, milk, and ice cream made by our very own cows!

Get outside. With its mild September weather, Ferndale is perfect for outdoor activities. Take a hike through Russ Park, a 110-acre nature preserve filled with mature Sitka spruce and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic for a day at Centerville Beach or the Lost Coast Headlands. Or walk over to our downtown Hadley Gardens and prepare to be charmed.

Are you a veteran looking for support? The Humboldt County Fairgrounds will host the annual North Coast Stand Down from September 26-28. Offering a wide range of services from healthcare to job assistance, the Stand Down is a valuable opportunity for veterans, their families, and their pets to connect with resources. Daily shuttles run throughout Humboldt County during this event. Visit the Stand Down website for more ways to get involved. Thank you, veterans, and thanks to all those who make this event possible.

With so much to see and do, September is the perfect time to visit Ferndale. From outdoor adventures to community events and local shopping, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Victorian Village. Plan your trip today and experience the best of what Ferndale has to offer!