Northern Virginia boasts a range of festivals that reflect its culinary diversity. With summer in full swing, this year promises a panoply of local flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some of this summer’s food and drink festival highlights.
Strawberry Jubilee Festival
June 1–2, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
It wouldn’t be early summer without fresh-picked strawberries. Whether you enjoy picking them yourself or buying them by the quart, the Strawberry Jubilee Festival at Great Country Farms has more than enough berries to go around. The festival also will feature live music, farm games, and wagon ridges. Fresh baked goods, concessions, and even hard cider (for adults) will be for sale. Great Country Farms: 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, $15 for adults, $13 for kids
Taste of Peru
June 2, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
This Latin American festival combines top chefs, street food, and fine dining, all into one experience. Over 25 local vendors are slated to be cooking up authentic Peruvian cuisine, from ceviche (the national dish of Peru) to Ají de Gallina, a creamy and spicy chicken stew. University of the District of Columbia: 4200 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, general admission $17, free for kids under 10
Taste of Springfield
June 8, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Celebrating its seventh year, Taste of Springfield promises fun and flavor for the whole family. Food vendors from throughout the region will be there along with live music, DJ performances, and family-friendly games and prizes. Springfield Town Center: 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield
Tiny Beer Fest
June 9, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
Looking for a one-block beer and food festival that packs a punch? Look no further than the Tiny Beer Fest at High Side. It will feature over 45 beers and ciders to taste, a live DJ performance, a Dad Jokes contest, and delectable Asian street food in the heart of Old Town Fairfax. For those not drinking, designated driver tickets are available for $5, with proceeds going to charity. 4009 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax, starts at $45 in advance, $55 at the door
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle
June 22–23, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
At one of the largest food events of the summer, eat the day away just steps from the US Capitol. Guests can taste over 150 different samples from local and national vendors at this 32nd annual event Live music and entertainment will be provided by more than 20 bands, not to mention the BBQ contests, games, and the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $20
Purcellville Wine & Food Festival
July 20, 2 p.m.–8 p.m.
Enjoy the historic beauty of Purcellville while sampling some of Virginia’s finest wines and brews at this food and drink event. Vendors have yet to be announced, but previous years have drawn the likes of 8 Chains North Winery, Fabbioli Cellars, Loudoun Brewing Company, and Winchester Ciderworks. Past food vendors have included Bilstad’s Beignets, Jamrock Grill, Doughboy Creamery, and 3 Fires Oven. 250 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville
Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival
August 17, 4 p.m.–9 p.m.
Calling all bourbon and beer connoisseurs! You won’t want to miss this festival focused on Virginia bourbon and small-batch craft brews. This summer’s lineup of breweries and distilleries has yet to be announced, but last year, brands like Chesapeake Bay Distillery, Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, and Springfield Distillery made an appearance. A tasting glass and samples are included with the ticket price.. 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, starting at $40
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
August 24, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Take a global trip at this food and cultural festival with over 30 different food vendors (one from each country) and over 50 different crafts and curiosities vendors. There will be a diverse folk show and plenty of opportunities for cultural education. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, free
Feature image of Around the World Cultural Food Festival
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