Northern Virginia is a true melting pot, where people from different cultures and backgrounds are intertwined in day-to-day life. That also means the region is host to some exciting cultural celebrations. Make sure pop into these heritage festivals for international celebrations of food, music, and entertainment.
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
Aug. 27, 11 a.m.– 7 p.m.
Gather on the waterfront at the 4.5-acre Oronoco Bay Park in Alexandria to sample national dishes and drinks that show off each country’s identity. 100 Madison St., Alexandria
Virginia Scottish Games
Sept. 3–4
There aren’t many festivals where you can watch an athlete toss a tree end of end, don a kilt for a Highland dance, do a whiskey tasting, and watch herding and hunting dogs complete. Now in its 48th year, the Virginia Scottish Games draws about 10,000 people each year. Tickets are $20 per day or $30 for the weekend. Tickets for kids ages 5 to 12 are $5 on Saturday and they’re free on Sunday. 5089 Old Tavern Rd., The Plains
Rosslyn Jazz Fest
Sept. 10, 1–7 p.m.
Led by Cuba’s Cimafunk, the 30th annual Rosslyn Jazz Fest will also feature performers Mwenso & The Shakes, Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, and Groove Orchestra. With an emphasis on international influences, the event blends African, Afro-American, and Latino traditions, rhythm, and movement with conventional jazz. Gateway Park, 1300 Lee Hwy., Rosslyn
Reston Multicultural Festival
Sept. 17, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Show off your own roots by wearing clothing that represents your heritage at the Reston Multicultural Festival. Highlighting the diversity of the community, this event showcases music, entertainment, and dress from around the world that is represented in Reston. Reston Town Square Park, Reston
Manassas Latino Festival
Sept. 24, noon–7 p.m.
This annual event features live music, dance performances, Latino foods, and activities for the family to celebrate the Latin American community. 9201 Center St., Manassas
Heritage India Festival
Oct. 8–9
An annual Diwali festival, this South Asian event celebrates music, dancing, arts, and foods like samosas, curries, and kebabs from some of the area’s best restaurants. Plus, you can kick off your holiday shopping at more than 300 booths featuring handicrafts, decorations, jewelry, and more. Dulles Expo Center, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly
Feature image courtesy Virginia Schottish Games
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
