November is here, and with it comes a mashup of events that promise to make your month unforgettable. Whether you’re craving pickles and grilled cheese or looking to dance along to the beats of Grammy winners, grab your friends and family for fun that’ll keep you entertained until the holiday season kicks into high gear.
Editor’s note: After press time, Shakira’s concert on November 24 and 25 were canceled. The DC show has since been rescheduled to May 31, 2025 at Nationals Park.
Dino Fest
November 1–24
Over 20 life-size dinosaurs take over Great Country Farms! Watch the dinos roam the fields, enjoy live shows, take pictures with a T-Rex and triceratops, and explore the farm’s 15 acres. Great Country Farms: 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, $25–$32
DMV Winter Lantern Festival
November 1–January 12
Back for its fourth year, this traditional Chinese lantern festival features more than 1,000 enchanting, handcrafted lanterns. 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, $16.99–$26.99
NOVA’s Largest Pickle & Grilled Cheese Festival
November 2–3
Arrive hungry: This indulgent festival features 12 pickle vendors, seven grilled cheese food trucks, and special pickle beer releases. Mustang Sally Brewing Company: 14140 Parke Long Ct., Ste. A–C, Chantilly, fxva.com, $5 on Saturday, free on Sunday
Jess Williamson
November 7
The heartfelt lyrics of this indie country musician will bring out the romantic in you. Known as part of the duo Plains with Waxahatchee’s Katie Crutchfield, her fifth solo album, Time Ain’t Accidental, explores love and self-discovery. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $28
The Beatles A Hard Day’s Night Celebration!
November 8
Celebrate the 60th anniversary of A Hard Day’s Night with an evening of nostalgia. Classical Mystery Tour and the Fairfax Symphony will perform iconic hits from the album and classics from every Beatles era. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $40
Northern Virginia Christmas Market
November 8–10
Stock up on gifts at this award-winning festive market with over 300 artisans and gourmet food vendors from all across the country. Plus, don’t miss the annual food drive supporting the Capital Area Food Bank. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $9
André 3000: New Blue Sun LIVE in Concert
November 9
Grammy Award–winner André 3000 makes his Kennedy Center debut with an evening of daring jazz and spiritual discovery from his first album in 17 years. He’ll be joined by R&B artist serpentwithfeet. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $90
Six: The Musical
November 12–December 1
Back for just three weeks at The National, this Tony Award–winning musical reimagines Henry VIII’s wives as modern pop icons, combining history and contemporary music. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $69
The Shawshank Redemption
November 14–December 8
NextStop Theatre Company brings Stephen King’s novella to the stage. Utilizing his survival skills, Andy Dufresne navigates his life in Shawshank prison. NextStop Theatre Company: 269 Sunset Park Dr., Herndon, $50
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi, and Miné Okubo
November 15–August 17
This exhibit explores the art of three prominent Japanese American artists before, during, and after World War II. Smithsonian American Art Museum: Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, free
Pentatonix
November 21
Pentatonix, the renowned a capella group, is riding its sleigh to 25 cities this winter for a Christmas tour. Be ready for some holiday cheer! EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, starting at $39
The Nutcracker
November 29
The Virginia National Ballet’s performance of this classic is a smash hit every year. Look for new sets, costumes, and choreography this year. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, starting at $35
Elf in Concert
November 29–December 1
Love the heartwarming holiday classic where Buddy, a human raised by elves, travels to New York City to find his real father? Now you can experience the movie on the big screen while John Debney’s score is performed live by the National Symphony Orchestra. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $39
Woodlawn: People and Perspectives
Through December 31
Learn about the important individuals who shaped Woodlawn’s history, and about its preservation, in this exhibit that incorporates artifacts around the property. Access is included with regular tour admission. Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House: 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria, $12–$15
Feature image of Dino Fest courtesy Great Country Farms
This story originally ran in our November issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
