Not sure how to spend your free time this October? Don’t worry — there are plenty of thrilling concerts and theatrical performances, fall festivals, and holiday celebrations happening in the Northern Virginia area that will guarantee there’s not a dull moment left on your schedule.
October 2
Jake Shimabukuro
This ukulele virtuoso showcases his talents in Alexandria. The Hawaii native will perform his newest album, Grateful, an ode to his home and musical inspirations. The album features 22 collaborations with Hawaii-based artists. He’s previously worked with Bette Midler, Jimmy Buffett, and Kenny Loggins. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $49.50
October 6–28
Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery
Sharpen your perception of swords, sorcery, and fantasy with a visit to this multimedia exhibit. To further immerse yourself in this world of mystical art, there will be papier-mâché, box making, and beadwork classes. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free for exhibit, classes extra
October 6
Chelsea Handler: The LBB Tour
This veteran comedian needs no introduction. Handler’s performance centers around her childhood. A television host, bestselling author, and Grammy nominee, Handler is no stranger to the spotlight. Make sure to grab your tickets soon, since she has already sold out her first of two Kennedy Center performances. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $59–$125
October 7
Mark Normand: Ya Don’t Say Tour!
This rising comic is bringing a night of laughs to Tysons. Normand, whom Jerry Seinfeld called the “best young up-and-coming comic,” has taken the comedy scene by storm. He has a Netflix special that is routinely streaming in the top 10 and has made several appearances on Conan, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $35
October 7
Vienna Oktoberfest
Put on your best lederhosen for a day of food, music, and festivities. Check out live entertainment and activities for the kids. Stroll along Church Street and peruse the artisan vendors. Food vendors will have ice cream, empanadas, barbecue, and, of course, beer. Church Street, Vienna, free
October 7–8
DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival
With regional coffee roasters, chocolatiers, and gourmet food shops in attendance, it will be nearly impossible to leave this festival with an empty stomach. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $16
October 13
Curtis Stigers
This soul singer, songwriter, saxophonist, and guitarist shows off his versatility in Vienna. Stigers recorded 14 albums, including nine award-winning jazz albums, and wrote the Emmy-nominated theme song for the series Sons of Anarchy. Most recently, Stigers released his album The Life, which reflects on his 30-year career. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $30–$35
October 13
The Pirates of Penzance
Set sail for a coming-of-age pirate tale. This musical theater performance is sure to transport you to a galley in the high seas. The first act is full of songs and elaborate costumes. The second act is performed in a cabaret format full of favorite songs from the repertory and audience requests. The Alden Theatre: 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, $15–$20
October 13–14
Gothic Ghosts at Rising Sun Tavern
Prepare for a frightful evening at Fredericksburg’s Rising Sun Tavern, which was built in 1760 by George Washington’s youngest brother, Charles. Live readings of early American Gothic tales and ghost stories will get you in the spooky spirit. Rising Sun Tavern Museum: 1304 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, $30
October 13–14
Haunted Hallows Ghost Tour
There will be ghosts and ghouls galore in downtown Manassas. A ghost host will bring you up close to the spirits that haunt this historic district. It’s the perfect way to kick-start the Halloween season. To refuel after your tour, stop by one of the on-site food trucks. ARTfactory: 9419 Battle St., Manassas, $25
October 14
Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, and Ricky Martin
Catch the opening night performance by these worldwide superstars. Each artist has a headlining set influenced by reggaeton, salsa pop, dance, and electronic music. You won’t want to miss the chance to see these musical powerhouses join forces. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $139.95
October 13–15
Fall Capital Art and Craft Festival
Pick up holiday gifts at this three-day artisan craft fair. The event features more than 250 artists and their handmade items that range from jewelry to ceramics to alpaca fur products. Vendors will sell toffee, popcorn, and baked goods. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $12 for adults, free for ages 12 and under
October 21–22
Mount Vernon Fall Harvest Festival
Celebrate the season and learn all about life on an 18th-century farm. Watch live demonstrations of cooking, candle-making, laundry washing, horseshoeing, and textiles. Buy farm-fresh foods. Kids can explore the straw-bale maze, and you can meet George Washington. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Alexandria, $26 for ages 12 and up, $13 for ages 6–11, free for ages 5 and under
Through October 22
King of the Yees
Head over to Signature Theatre for the DC-area premiere of this semi-autobiographical comedy. The show dives into the playwright Lauren Yee’s relationship with her father and connection to her heritage. Set in San Francisco’s Chinatown, this lively performance is recommended for mature audiences. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, $40–$67
October 28
Día de los Muertos Family Day
Join the Smithsonian American Art Museum for an afternoon of music, dance, crafts, and cultural activities. Watch a traditional Mexican folk dance and a mariachi performance. Different music genres and dances will be performed. There will be face painting, and a Día de los Muertos scavenger hunt in the museum. Smithsonian American Art Museum: Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, americanart.si.edu, free
Feature image, Eve Orea/stock.adobe.com
This story originally ran in our October issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
