10 Fall Festivals and Events to Check Out in Northern Virginia This October
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October is packed with plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the season. From film festivals and fall celebrations to horse races, apple treats, and family-friendly activities, Northern Virginia has something happening almost every weekend.
If you’re still filling up your October calendar, here are 10 upcoming events worth checking out.
Morven Park International & US Equestrian Open
October 8–11 | Morven Park, Leesburg | Free
Spend a day at Morven Park watching accomplished equestrian athletes take on dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The internationally recognized event brings together several disciplines for four days of competition.
Washington West Film Festival
October 8–12 | Multiple locations in Reston | Ticket prices vary
Movie lovers can catch a range of screenings around Reston during the Washington West Film Festival. Along with films, the annual event includes discussions with filmmakers while supporting local nonprofit organizations.
Parktober Fest
October 10 | Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly | Free
Celebrate fall outdoors with live music, local craft beer, food vendors, and artisan shopping. Families can also enjoy nature-focused activities designed for kids throughout the event.
The Virginia Fall Races
October 10 | Glenwood Park, Middleburg | $50 per vehicle
Pack a picnic and settle in for a day of steeplechase racing at Glenwood Park. The venue is recognized as the oldest continuous race course in Virginia, making the event a seasonal tradition with plenty of history behind it.
Fairfax Fall Festival
October 10 | Downtown Fairfax | Free
The Fairfax Fall Festival marks its 50th anniversary this year with a full day of activities in Old Town Fairfax. Expect live entertainment, family activities, and more than 400 local craft and food vendors throughout the celebration.
Apple Harvest Festival
October 10–11 | Marker-Miller Orchards Farm Market, Winchester | Free
If apple season is your favorite part of fall, this festival puts the fruit front and center. Visitors can enjoy apple cobbler, cider, pies, ice cream, doughnuts, and other seasonal favorites, along with live music, crafts, and activities for the family.
Fall Arts & Crafts Show
October 10–11 | Fredericksburg Convention Center, Fredericksburg | $9
Looking for something handmade or seasonal? More than 175 local artisans and makers will gather for this fall show featuring jewelry, artwork, home décor, gifts, and other handcrafted finds.
Middleburg Film Festival
October 15–18 | Multiple locations in Middleburg | $125+
The Middleburg Film Festival returns with screenings, filmmaker conversations, and special events. Its lineup includes award-season films, giving movie enthusiasts several days to explore new releases and hear directly from people behind the productions.
Celebrate Purcellville Festival
October 17 | Dillon’s Woods, Purcellville | Free
Purcellville’s signature fall celebration brings together live music, carnival games, food, children’s activities, and community entertainment. It’s an easy option for families looking for a relaxed seasonal outing.
Fall Harvest Family Days
October 24–25 | George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon | $16 ages 6–11; $30 ages 12+
Step into the harvest season with activities inspired by the 18th century at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. The weekend includes farm activities, music, and demonstrations that highlight historic harvest traditions.
Make the Most of October
Whether you’re in the mood for a day at the races, a film-filled weekend, handmade finds, or classic fall food and festivities, there are still plenty of events ahead this month. Pick a few favorites, gather your friends or family, and make the most of October in and around Northern Virginia.
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