Ready to send September out on a good note? There are lots of things to do in NoVA the weekend of September 29 to October 1, from vibrant cultural festivals to peaceful nature walks.
World Culture Festival
Friday, September 29–Sunday, October 1
Celebrate the diverse cultures of the world with this weekend-long festival right on the National Mall. There will be live music in an array of genres from hip hop to world music, dance performances, and food trucks serving international cuisine. There will be a grand total of 17,000 artists present. Passes are free, but preregistration is required. National Mall, Washington, DC, free
Fall Full Moon Hike
Friday, September 29, 7:30–9 p.m.
Bask in this month’s full moon — it’s a harvest moon and a supermoon — with an evening hike through Lake Accotink Park. It’s a rare opportunity to explore the park at night, and you’ll get to look and listen to the wildlife that lives there. 7500 Lake Accotink Park Rd., Springfield, $9
DC Art All Night
Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30, 7 p.m.–3 a.m.
Stay out late to explore this all-night event. Throughout all eight of DC’s wards, neighborhoods will light up with vibrant performances and celebrations designed to highlight music, art, performance, and literature. Check the event maps to find participating neighborhoods, live music, and family-friendly activities. Washington, DC, free
Manhattan Short Film Festival
Friday, September 29, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.; and Saturday, September 30, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Participate in this global film festival with a viewing in Purcellville. Cinephiles across the country will watch the lineup of short films (the run times range from eight to 17 minutes), chosen out of over 900 submissions, then vote for their favorite at the end. It should be noted that the films are not rated and may contain mature themes. Franklin Park Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville, $8
Renée Elise Goldsberry in Concert
Saturday, September 30, 8:30 p.m.
“Satisfied” is an understatement for how you’ll feel after watching Renée Elise Goldsberry take center stage with Broadway hits and American classics. The Tony-, Emmy-, and Grammy-award winner, best known for her portrayal of Angelica Schuyler in the original Hamilton cast, headlines this dazzling show. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, $50–$100
Mosaic Fall Festival
Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Get outside and enjoy the crisp fall air with a family-friendly fall festival at Mosaic District. Over 90 vendors will sell handmade and vintage items alongside the regular Sunday farmers market. Look for live entertainment from Izis Le Enfermera de la Salsa and Kristen and the Noise, as well as kids’ activities hosted by Bloomie’s. Mosaic District Ave., Fairfax, free
Rosslyn Reads Book Festival
Saturday, September 30, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Stock up for a fall full of reading at Rosslyn’s annual book sale. You’ll find thousands of gently used books, as well as CDs, DVDs, and records. There will be a story time for little ones, and the Arlington Library Truck will make an appearance. Have extras on your bookshelf? Bring in used books as donations for nonprofit Turning the Page. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N. Lynn St., Arlington, free
Sips & Secrets: A Speakeasy Night
Saturday, September 30, 7–10 p.m.
Learn the history of the Lee-Fendall House’s role as a Prohibition-era liquor wholesaler and suspected bootlegger. The event features live jazz and ragtime music, a flapper or mobster costume contest, and themed cocktails. The event takes place in the garden of the Lee-Fendall House Museum. 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria, $75–$300
2023 Manassas Latino Festival
Saturday, September 30, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Manassas comes alive with a day of live music and dancing, family fun, and foods to celebrate Latino culture and heritage. Vendors include Pollo Loco and Cactus Grill. Harris Pavilion: 9201 Center St., Manassas, free
Mega Fresh Fest in the Woods
Saturday, September 30, 1–5 p.m.
Juicy Brewing Company is throwing its first-ever beer festival. Over 20 breweries will participate, including Aslin, Crooked Run, and Adroit. General admission gets you a tasting glass so you can sip on as many beers as you want. There will be a DJ, a cigar bar, and a special VIP area. 42245 Black Hops Ln., Lucketts, $80–$150, $5 for designated drivers
19th Annual Apple Festival
Saturday, September 30, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Celebrate the sweet, crisp fruit at this annual festival, where cider pressing, apple games, and a moon bounce will be featured entertainment. Live music will accompany, along with food trucks and a cider, wine, and beer garden. Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum: 21668 Heritage Farm Ln., Sterling, $8–$10
21st Annual Alexandria Art Festival
Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Add some color to your calendar (and hopefully, your home) at Old Town Alexandria’s annual outdoor art event. Browse booths filled with high-quality pieces from a wide range of artists. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, free
Panda Palooza: A Giant Farewell
Through October 1, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Bid the Smithsonian Zoo’s giant pandas farewell with this panda-themed bash. Once you’ve spent some time watching the three pandas eat, play, and sleep, you can participate in a morning yoga class, catch a panda-themed film, like The Miracle Panda or Kung Fu Panda, and enjoy live music. National Zoo: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
Bomba in the Square
Sunday, October 1, 4–5:30 p.m.
Looking to try your hand at a new skill? Learn the art of bomba, a traditional Afro–Puerto Rican dance and music style, with this free program celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. There will be a 30-minute percussion and song class followed by a 40 minute live-music dance class. Finally, have fun with your new moves with a 20-minute jam session. 907 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg, free
Feature image of World Culture Festival courtesy Art of Living
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