By Micaela Williamson
Fairfax County 4H Fair and Carnival
July 30-Aug. 2, 2014
Herndon
The grounds of Fairfax County’s favorite farm becomes filled with contests, farm animals, carnival rides, and more. Families will love the free admission and so many interactive educational exhibits. Friday night at the fair is Big Truck Night, and kids can climb all over the biggest and coolest vehicles Fairfax County has to offer.
Friendship Firehouse Festival
Aug. 2, 2014
Alexandria
This popular family event includes outdoor exhibits, museum admission, antique fire apparatus, craft booths, entertainment and more. All children receive free helmets and The Alexandria Fire Department invites them aboard for a supervised visit inside the trucks.
Brick Fair
Aug. 2-3, 2014
Chantilly
LEGO fans and master builders take over the Dulles Expo Center with mind-boggling displays, models, trains, vendors, LEGO paraphernalia and plenty of hands-on activities for kids and adults alike. We recommend skipping the line by getting advance tickets online.
Arlington County Fair
Aug. 6-10, 2014
Arlington
Amongst the urban sprawl, this fun-filled event has competitive exhibits, farm animals, community vendors, carnival rides, and lots of live entertainment. Additional events include a family-friendly 5K race and a nightly line up of outdoor movies featuring the fan favorites Frozen and The Lego Movie.
Prince William County Fair
Aug. 8-16, 2014
Manassas
This highly regarded county fair is always a hit and includes attractions such as midway rides, vendors, interactive community booths, animals, and lots of live entertainment. Have some old-fashioned country fun by watching a tractor pull or rodeo, or the adrenaline pumping monster trucks and demolition derby. Check the website for daily schedules, coupons, and discount days.
The Lucketts Fair
Aug. 17-18, 2014
Lucketts
The Lucketts Fair caters to families and kids. There is true country fun with over 100 artisans and crafters, giant produce, homemade food and wholesome live entertainment. Children will be pleased to pet animals, ride ponies, and participate in a-day-on-the-farm activities. This fair is a must for any aspiring little farmer.
National Book Festival
Aug. 30, 2014
Washington, D.C.
For the first time ever, the annual National Book Festival is moving indoors to the Washington Convention Center. The event is bursting with famous authors, live readings, book signings, and hands-on family activities. Before you go, download the special festival guide for kids and teachers online.
- Courtesy of Tiffany Brown, Mamaratzy Photography
Micaela Williamson is a co-author of local travel guide, Kid Trips Northern Virginia, an extraordinary resource that provides descriptions, useful information and insider tips for hundreds of local destinations. Micaela is also an award winning blogger who enjoys supporting area businesses and scouting out family-friendly venues with her two young sons.
