Experience Dunwoody’s fall charm: Must-attend events you can’t miss

As the days grow shorter and a change tinges the early mornings, the city of Dunwoody, just outside Atlanta, is gearing up for an eventful fall. And you’re invited!

Here are the sparkling, dynamic offerings that promise to make this fall season one to remember.

Butterflies and Brews

Get ready for the ultimate in lepidopteran encounters as the Dunwoody Nature Center opens up its butterfly tents for the whole family! Enjoy animal programs, crafts, educational programming, music and magic performances. Participants will be allowed in the butterfly tents for 20-minute time slots and can stroll through the other offerings at their leisure.

Location: The Dunwoody Nature Center; Website: dunwoodynature.org; Date: Sept. 9 to 11

The Feast of San Gennaro-Italian Festival

This annual Italian-themed festival is back, but in a new location. Come out to the new Grana location for an all-you-can-eat, flat-out great time. See cooking demos from Grana Executive Chef Pat Pascarella, maybe enter an eating contest, and listen to live entertainment. But don’t forget to slow down and enjoy the sumptuous food and drink. Speaking of which, you’ll get two drink vouchers with each admission ticket.

Location: Grana Ashford; Website: discoverdunwoody.com; Date: Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Admission: $25 to $55

Latino Hispanic Cultural Celebration in Dunwoody

Take an afternoon to immerse yourself in the traditions of a rich and vibrant culture! Music, great food and dancing will round out a day dedicated to a celebration of Hispanic and Latino heritage. Traditional Mexican, flamenco and Latino dancers will be on hand to entertain alongside local vendors, and WSB-TV’s Wendy Corona will emcee. Fostering respect and unity are the ultimate goals of this event, and attendees will come away with new memories and appreciation, too!

Location: Ashford Lane; Website: discoverdunwoody.com; Date: Sept. 17, 1-4 p.m.; Admission: free

Farm-to-Table Dinner at Donaldson-Bannister Farm

Gather ‘round the farmhouse table for back-to-the-earth-style goodness in a hearty meal! Marlow’s Tavern will provide the menu for this get-together under the pine boughs to benefit the programming that takes place during the year at this historic farmhouse. Choose from main dishes including steak tenderloin and airline chicken, and a decadent brownie or berry crumbly for dessert. Live Bluegrass will augment the evening, and attendees, through a silent auction, will have the opportunity to help provide funding for the facility’s educational programs and its summer camps for kids.

Location: Donaldson-Bannister Farm; Website: discoverdunwoody.com; Date: Sept. 30, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Admission: $225 to $250 per person; $250 to $300 per couple.

Stargazing at Dunwoody Observatory

There are several opportunities this fall to enjoy the beauty of the heavens as unusual bodies pass into view. The Dunwoody Observatory will allow online viewing of planets like Saturn and Jupiter and possible appearances of a star cluster, the double star Albireo and the Ring Nebula, a star in its last stages. You can also schedule a tour with a local astronomer through their website.

Location: online; Website: sites.gsu.edu; Date: Oct. 14, 7-10 p.m.; Admission: Free

Tuesdays with Morrie at Stage Door Theater

Make plans to see this classic at the Stage Door Theater, and you’ll fall into the story of a student who reunites with his former college professor. A one-time visit turns into a string of returns as Morrie Schwartz, a retired educator, battles Lou Gehrig’s disease. Audience members will leave with life lessons etched in their hearts.

Location: Stage Door Theater; Website: discoverdunwoody.com; Date: Sept. 9 to Oct. 15; Admission: child - $15, student - $20, adult - $28