October typically brings spectacular autumn weather in and around Boston, and also coincides with peak fall foliage. Make the most of this gorgeous season by taking part in one of the many festivals planned around town this month. One of my favorite events of the year takes place in October, too: The Boston Book Festival -- don't miss it!

ArtWeek

Through October 5, 2014, various locations, Admission varies by event

Sponsored by the Highland Street Foundation, ArtWeek runs through October 5 and celebrates all forms of the arts, from fine art exhibits to dance performances, concerts to dinner theater. Participating organizations include the Boston Conservatory, the Huntington Theater Company, and the Institute of Contemporary Art, among many other arts groups. Get the full schedule of events, venues, and admission prices (where applicable) at the ArtWeek website.

Roxbury Open Studios

October 2-5, 2014, various locations, FREE

Explore the artists of Roxbury or take a workshop at the annual Roxbury Open Studios, held at various studios, homes, churches, and community organizations around the neighborhood. Highlights include the New Art Love's Roxbury Art Crawl, works from artist Lolita Parker Jr. and panel discussions at the Haley House Bakery Cafe, and tours of the historic Shirley Eustis House. Admission is free, and many works will be available for purchase.

Harpoon Octoberfest

October 3-4, 2014, Harpoon Brewery, $20 admission (cash only)

Harpoon celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Octoberfest celebration this year. Admission includes a souvenir pint cup and one drink ticket; sample beers for 2014 range from the Harpoon UFO Pumpkin to the Hard Craft Cider, as well as Boston Irish Stout and Pumpkin Cider, among several other brews. German food, live music, and dancing are also on the docket. Tickets are not sold in advance, so be sure to get there early if you want to guarantee entry. 

Boston Fashion Week

October 5-11, 2014, various locations, admission varies by event

Boston may not be world-renowned for fashion, but both our city's up-and-coming and established designers still have a lot to show off. Fashion Week events in early October include a Taste of Beacon Hill (featuring curated attire from the neighborhood's most fashionable boutiques), the Copley Catwalk back-to-back fashion shows at Copley Place, and lots of networking events, trunk shows, and cocktail parties.

Oktoberfest

October 12, 2014, Harvard Square, FREE

How many festivities can Harvard Square cram into a day? Visit for the 36th annual Oktoberfest festival and see for yourself: There's a beer garden, craft vendors, food booths, the HONK! parade of activist bands, kids activities, and street performers. Bring your appetite and join the crowds for a day of food, drink, and merriment.

Head of the Charles Regatta

October 18-19, 2014, Charles Riverbank outside Harvard Square, FREE

This most classic of New England fall events returns to Harvard Square, where rowers from around the country compete in the annual regatta. Follow the crowds to the banks of the Charles River, and arrive early if you want to snag a prime spot between the Anderson and Weeks bridges. In addition to the races, there will be food trucks and concession stands, a rowing and fitness expo, and sponsor booths offering swag and samples.

The Boston Book Festival

October 23-25, 2014, various Back Bay locations, FREE

Seminars, lectures, workshops, kids' activities -- if it’s literary in nature, you can find it at the Boston Book Festival. This year features three days of events celebrating the written word, held in and around Copley Square; scheduled presenters include Steve Almond, Jennifer Finney Boylan, and Ann M. Martin, among many other authors, educators, journalists, and poets. If you’re planning to attend any of the ticketed events (e.g., Herbie Hancock's keynote speech on October 23) or take a workshop, book or register early to ensure you’ll get a seat. The same goes for day-of events featuring top authors: As many venues have seat-capacity limits, the earlier you arrive, the better chance you have to get in.

Is there a Boston festival or other October event you'd like me to cover? Send me an email and I'll consider it for a future story!