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Here’s the 2026 Peak Fall Foliage Prediction for Northern Virginia

Current forecasts show a peak fall foliage window that's later than normal.

fall foliage along the lake
© pabrady63/stock.adobe.com

Now that September is here, autumn is on our minds. And one of the best parts about the season is the vibrant foliage that covers the region.

If you’re trying to plan your fall activities around the changing scenery, Northern Virginia can expect to hit peak fall foliage starting October 30, according to Explore Fall’s prediction.

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Peak conditions are forecasted to begin in western Loudoun County starting October 30 and will spread throughout the region through November 6. 

Purcellville and The Plains are expected to see peak conditions around November 1. By November 3, Leesburg, Manassas, and various Fairfax County should reach peak color. Then, by November 6, Arlington, Alexandria, and Fredericksburg should be covered in vibrant foliage.

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2026 peak fall foliage map of virginia
Courtesy Explore Fall

The Explore Fall map considers temperature, precipitation, and daylight data to estimate peak foliage dates across the country. The site says the model is estimated to be “accurate within three days 80% of the time.”

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In addition to the live map, Explore Fall also provides location-specific forecasts. The map is predicting that “the late summer temperature pattern is pushing peak color later, but other contributing factors are partially offsetting that timing effect.” Drought conditions may also affect fall foliage color quality in select areas in the region.

Feature image, pabrady63/stock.adobe.com

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