Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year here in Fairfax County. Between crisper weather (prime for exploring local trails) and looking forward to the holiday season (up first: Halloween!), this area knows how to kick off the festival season.
Here's a sneak peek at some of the best fall festivals and events in Northern Virginia for the whole family in 2024. Bookmark these for the best festivals this autumn, and check out the full list of all fall festivals here. More are being added every day!
September
Mount Vernon Colonial Market and Fair
September 14-15
Image courtesy Mount Vernon
Colonial-attired artisans demonstrate 18th-century crafts and sell traditional wares on the grounds of George Washington's estate. The Colonial Market and Fair also features lively 18th-century entertainment including music, fire-eating, sword-swallowing, puppet and magic shows, plus hearty specialty food for sale onsite. Need additional reasons to attend Mount Vernon? Check here.
Cox Farms Fall Festival
Opening weekend September 14-15; runs through November 5
Cox Farms Fall Festival has been a family tradition for thousands of Fairfax County families for more than 40 years. The most popular Fall Festival attractions are the famous hayride (around the pond, through the woods, and ending in the Enchanted Barn), five giant slides, the Cornundrum cornfield adventure, rope swings, hay tunnels and more. Don't miss Foamhenge, an accurate life-size replica of Stonehenge made of Styrofoam plus the scary Fields of Fear hayride and haunted adventure in the evenings.
Fall Festival at Tysons Corner Center
September 14
The 3rd annual Fall Festival will take place on the Plaza September 14! Guests can enjoy a day of live music, Giving Garden guided tours, vendor market (featuring over 10 local makers), face painting for the kiddos or adults, photobooth, and so much more. Admission is completely free, but visitors have the option to purchase a VIP ticket to enjoy tasting from 10 Virginia wineries, lounge seating, and tasty delights.
Perchfest Fall: Music & Mini Golf Festival
September 20-21
Have you ever attended a festival 11 stories high? Make sure to add PerchFest to your fall festival list because this is one event you won't want to miss! Before or after catching the incredible Shrek the Musical, head up to Perch Putt for a special Shrek-themed surprise. Guests can enjoy Shrek-inspired activities, food trucks, Instagrammable moments, and FREE pop-up massages!
Mosaic District's Annual Fall Festival
September 28-29
Enjoy live entertainment and music, a FRESHFARM Farmers Market with 50+ vendors, Beer Garden from Caboose Brewing Company and Wine Garden, and more at Mosaic District's Annual Fall Festival on September 28 and 29!
Fall Fun Fest at Reston Farm Garden Market
September 28 - October 27
All aboard the Reston Farm Garden Market Express Train! The beloved Fall Fun Fest is back in Reston and better than ever. They are coming back to surprise families with their full array of family-friendly activities. Passengers can enjoy multiple moon bounces, visit the petting zoo, and take home some of the best that fall offers (rumor has it there will be pumpkins, seasonal decor, and Apple Cider Donuts on-site)
October
Fall Festival
October 4
Nothing says fall more than mulled wine and fire pits, but why not add a Spanish twist with Paella and Tapas at The Winery at Bull Run's Fall Festival? Sing along to the tunes of the On Tap Band as you sip their seasonal specialty and don't forget to snap a photo at their special fall-themed photo wall.
Vienna Oktoberfest
October 5
Image courtesy Vienna Business Association
Come to historic Church Street in downtown Vienna and enjoy beer, wine, German and other international foods, live music, vendors, kids' activities, and free admission at the annual Vienna Oktoberfest!
City of Fairfax Fall Festival
October 12
Image courtesy City of Fairfax
Enjoy over 400 arts, crafts, food & gourmet food vendors, children’s activities, and three stages of music and entertainment for all ages at this classic fall festival held in and hosted by the nearby City of Fairfax.
Clifton Day Festival
October 13
On October 13, attend the beloved Clifton Day Festival. The 2024 festival will feature a marketplace with hundreds of artisans, live music, pony rides and other children's activities, a beer and wine garden, and more. Pro tip: Clifton Day is also the only day of the year that the Virginia Railway Express train stops in the town, so be sure to grab a ride into Clifton!
DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival
October 16-17
The top coffee shops and roasters are meeting up with the best chocolatiers, gourmet food purveyors, and artisans at an event so delicious you won't even be able to stand it! Head to the Dulles Expo Center on October 16-17 to taste, sip, and get a head start on your holiday shopping at this family-friendly DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival in Chantilly.
November
Bull Run Festival of Lights and Holiday Village
Mid-November - early January
Every year from Thanksgiving until just after New Year’s Day, you can experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles of illuminated holiday light displays. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus (holiday village open select nights). Want more light shows? Check here.
Meadowlark Gardens Winter Walk of Lights
Mid-November - early January
Every year from mid-November until just after New Year’s Day, the garden is transformed into a winter wonderland. The half-mile enchanting walk features lighted nature themes and animated displays to get you in the holiday mood. This trail is paved for wheelchairs and strollers!
Bonus:
The holiday season is fast approaching! Keep tabs on our winter guide for updated events, travel ideas, and more.
Want more festival fun for 2024? Check out the full list of fall festivals here and keep tabs on our growing event calendar for the latest and greatest. Share your favorite festival pics with us on social media using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.
