Our region is home to some of the most unique varietals of wine and flavors of beer in the country, which is why it’s no surprise that beverage-inspired festivals are a commonality here in NoVA.
As summer winds down and fall officially begins on Sept. 23, local organizations are celebrating the end of long, warmer days by indulging in some of the best beer and wine Northern Virginia has to offer. Here, we share where to get your end-of-summer fix with these seven festivals.
2019 Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival
Saturday, Aug. 24, 4-9 p.m.
It’s time to get classy at this year’s Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival. Whether you want to check out cigars from Hogshead Cigar Lounge, sip on bourbon offerings from around the world or try out brew samples from local Fredericksburg breweries, there’s something for everyone. Plus, live music will be streaming in throughout the night, too. // Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg; $10-$50
Labor Day Weekend Belgium Beer Fest
Friday, Aug. 30-Sunday, Sept. 1, 7 p.m.
For those who decided to stay local this holiday weekend, you have the chance to celebrate Labor Day at Delirium Cafe’s inaugural beer-inspired festival. The event will feature live music, special giveaways, discounts on local brewery merchandise and a wide variety of beers, including 30 Belgian beers on tap and well-known sips like Stella Artois and Pilsner in a pint. // Delirium Cafe Leesburg: 101 S. King St., Leesburg; free entry
2019 Virginia Cider Festival
Saturday, Sept. 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Not a fan of beer or wine? No problem, as the 2019 Virginia Cider Festival is sure to have something for everyone. This one-of-a-kind event will feature hard ciders from across the country, as well as local favorites like Bold Rock Hard Cider, crafted in Nellysford, Virginia. As you sip on a flavorful cider, be sure to indulge on bites served from Fredericksburg-based restaurants and take in live music that will continue all day long. // Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $10-$30
Fourth Annual Food Wine & Arts Festival
Saturday, Sept. 14, noon-4 p.m.
For the fourth year in a row, local nonprofit Shelter House, Inc. is hosting its end-of-summer festival that is entertaining for youngsters and adults alike. The organization, which provides shelter and support services to homeless families and victims of domestic violence, is known as a safe haven for many community members in Reston. This annual event will include food offerings, live music, pop-up art exhibits, free activities for kids and wine tastings, all benefiting a good cause. // Halstead Square Dunn Loring Metro: 2729 Merrilee Drive, Fairfax; $0-$12
RhinO’fest 2019
Saturday, Sept. 14, noon-6 p.m.
In honor of its new, award-winning RhinoFest Märzen Lager and several other seasonal releases, Lost Rhino Brewing Company is hosting RhinO’fest 2019. From authentic German fare—think bratwurst, pork roast, giant pretzels and more—to beer tastings, the celebration will be one to remember. // Lost Rhino Retreat: 22885 Brambleton Plaza, Suite 100; Ashburn; free
Fairfax County Brewfest 2019
Saturday, Sept. 21, noon-6 p.m.
Featuring 11 breweries from Fairfax County, this annual festival is all about the surrounding community. Whether you choose to bring the kiddos or share a couple rounds with some friends, the live music, fall-themed food and brewery tours will keep everyone entertained throughout the afternoon. // Mustang Sally Brewing Company: 14140 Parke Long Court, Suite A-C, Chantilly; $10-$20
FXBG Wine Fest XXIX
Saturday, Sept. 21-Sunday, Sept. 22, times vary
A few days before summer officially ends, take in the views of the Rappahannock River while sipping on several varietals of wine, listening to local bands play their tunes and purchasing art and retail from local vendors. Plus, children under the age of 12 can get in for free and participate in outdoor games while you party alongside them. // Old Mill Park: 2201 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; $10-$30
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