This weekend is the perfect time to fill up your calendar. Whether you’re looking for fall festivities, holiday markets, or a fun activity for the family, here are 12 activities to attend during the weekend of November 3–5.
FredVends Holiday Market at Hurkamp Park
November 3, 4–9 p.m.
It’s never too early to start your holiday shopping. Part of the Fredericksburg’s First Friday celebration, this market features food, drinks, local artisans, and live music throughout the night. Hurkamp Park: 500 William St., Fredericksburg, free
Monster Truckz
November 3–5, times vary
Things are set to get crazy at the weekend-long monster truck rally. These massive trucks will smash cars and complete crazy jumps. Plus watch the motocross team fly high. Each adult ticket qualifies for one free kid’s ticket. Prince William County Fairgrounds: 10624 Dumfries Rd., Manassas, $40 for adults, $26 for military, $20 for students ages 13–17, $15 for children ages 3–13, parking $15
The Adventures of Pinocchio
November 3–19, times vary
This classic children’s tale is getting a theatrical twist. The family-friendly performance will feature kid actors and Spanish language elements for a puppet-filled, magical adventure. The Creative Cauldron: 410 S. Maple Ave., Ste. 116, Falls Church, $18–$20
Housemates Art Exhibit
Thursdays through Sundays from November 3–26, times vary
Housemates of all shapes, sizes, and species will be featured in this new exhibit. Members of the gallery will showcase their pets and human housemates, bringing them to life through paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and other mediums. An opening night reception will be held on Friday from 7–9 p.m. Del Ray Artisans: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
The DC Big Flea Antiques Market
November 4–5, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
The Mid-Atlantic’s largest antique flea market is back for its final market of 2023. The two-day event will feel like a treasure hunt as you search for fine antiques, vintage clothing, and stunning jewelry. Tickets are valid for both days of the event. Dulles Expo & Conference Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, $10 for adults, free for children 12 and under
Animal Rescue Festival
November 4, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Come out and support the Fredericksburg SPCA at its annual festival. Start the morning off with the 1-mile Walk for the Animals. Then, enjoy the rest of the day at the beer and wine garden, listening to music, chatting with vendors, and petting the adoptable dogs. Hurkamp Park: 500 William St., Fredericksburg, free
Pope-Leighey Fall Open House
November 4, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Explore the beautiful designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. Throughout the day, guests will be able to take self-guided tours of the Usonian home, play games, and enjoy other family-friendly activities. Registration is encouraged. 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria, free
Pumpkin Chunkin’
November 4–5 , 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
The best way to use leftover jack-o’-lanterns? Dropping them from a 40-foot lift, of course. Throw your pumpkins into the drop zone, send them on a zip line, and hurl them at the pumpkin “Wall of Death.” Don’t worry, your smashed pumpkin bits won’t go to waste; they’ll go to the farm’s pigs and cows. Great Country Farms: 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, $16 for adults, $14 for children
DC Beer Fest
November 4, noon–3 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.
Nationals Park becomes a brew lover’s heaven for this festival featuring over 50 breweries, as well as live music and food trucks. VIP admission gets you access to the ballpark’s dugouts, warning track, and batting cages. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC, $50 for general admission, $90 for VIP admission
Chocolate Binge at the Chocolate Factory
November 4, noon–5 p.m.
If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to make your way to this chocolate-filled celebration. Visit the chocolate factory to sample hot chocolate, craft s’mores, and wine and chocolate pairings. Guests can also make their own chocolate bar for $10. River-Sea Chocolates: 4520 Daly Dr., Ste. 100, Chantilly, $8
Dog O’ Ween
November 4, 1–6 p.m.
This Halloween celebration has gone to the dogs. Start the day off with trick or treating with the kids and pups. After that, enter the owner and pet competition to see if you and your pooch can win the best kisser (dog), best handshake, biggest dog, and best dressed competitions. There will also be over 100 beer and cider samples, a dog-friendly menu, and other outdoor games and activities. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean, free
Heart of the Mummy: A Magpie Sisters Radio Play Mystery
November 4, 6:30 p.m.
Mummies, mystery, murder, and a meal! What more could you want from a play? At this dinner theater performance, watch two sleuthing sisters solve the case of their favorite playwright’s death. Before the show starts, enjoy a dinner buffet, along with beer, wine, and iced tea. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens: 20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln., Leesburg, $70
Feature image by Paul Burk courtesy of the National Trust for Historic Preservation
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