The autumn season is in full swing, and Northern Virginia is buzzing with things to do. Whether you’re looking to grab a ticket to a local film screening, meet the author of a newly released novel, or get your Christmas shopping done early, there is a weekend event for you. Check out these film festivals, food festivals, art exhibits, vintage markets, dance parties, and more from November 6 to 9.
Jim Brickman
November 6, 8 p.m.
Ring in the holiday season with Grammy-nominated Brickman’s distinctive piano style at the Barns. The Vienna stop is a part of the pianist’s The Gift of Christmas Tour, which features special guest performers Anne Cochran, Luke McMaster, and John Trones. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $60
Alexandria Film Festival
November 6–9
The second weekend of this annual film festival includes over 20 screenings of indie films across several Alexandria locations. Local films like The Other You and 500 Fireflies will be featured throughout the weekend, and some screenings are followed by Q&As with filmmakers and directors. Multiple area locations, individual screenings starting at $15
The Nightmare Before Christmas: Live in Concert
November 7, 7:30 p.m.
Experience Tim Burton’s classic Disney stop-motion film with live music performed by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra and conductor Jason Seber will perform Danny Elfman’s score while the film is projected on a HD big screen behind them. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $51.75
GoGo & Glow
November 7, 9 p.m.–3 a.m.
Party with a purpose at this glow party hosted by the Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The neon party will feature live music from The Experience Band, DJ Aladdin DaPrince, and themed giveaways throughout the night. Proceeds from the party support local scholarships and public service programs. Air Restaurant and Lounge: 2473 18th St. NW Washington, DC, starting at $30.23
Northern Virginia Christmas Market
November 7–9
Browse over 300 vendors from more than 30 states at the 32nd annual regional Christmas market. Shop for holiday decorations for your home or pick out a unique gift for friends or family from artisans creating pottery, jewelry, stained glass, and more. The event will also host a food drive benefiting the Capital Area Food Bank, so bring some non-perishable foods along to donate. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, $9
The Mini World: Small Works of Art Exhibit
November 7–30
Celebrate the little things at the opening reception of this mini art exhibit on Friday where guests can meet the curators. The exhibit showcases tiny art like paintings and sculptures created by Del Ray Artisans members. 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Opening Day at Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion
November 7–March 8, 2026
This winter tradition is kicking off this Friday. Bring your friends and family along for music and snacks before renting some skates and getting on the ice at open skate times, or set up a private event perfect for birthday or holiday parties. 1818 Discovery St., Reston, admission $9–$11, skate rental $7
Pickle and Grilled Cheese Festival
November 8, noon to 5 p.m.
For the pickle fanatics across the region, Fredericksburg is hosting its second annual festival with vendors offering tastings of pickle flavored food and drink items. Take a sip of a pickle beer or soda while grazing unlimited pickle samples and browsing food trucks offering grilled cheese menus. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $30
Mark Z. Danielewski
November 8, 5 p.m.
Meet the author behind the bestselling novel House of Leaves and get a signed copy of his latest 1,200-page fantasy-western, Tom’s Crossing. The story follows two friends on a pursuit to save a pair of horses set for slaughter, featuring spooky elements like ghost hauntings. Politics and Prose: 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
North Mississippi Allstars
November 8, 8 p.m.
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this blues-rock band’s debut album, Shake Hands with Shorty, with their latest release, Still Shakin’. Brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson started the band in 1996, originally performing traditional Mississippi music before evolving and blending several genres. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $60
That’s So Vintage Market
November 8–9, noon–4 p.m.
Browse curated vintage apparel and home goods from over 50 vendors at this DC market. All items are 20 years or older, with some specialty and luxury items dating back to the 1920s. Local vendors include Elephant In My Room, Nico Plaza, Twin Flame Vintage, and more. Union Market District: 1309 Fifth St. NE, Washington, DC, $6
Noochie’s Live from the Front Porch
November 9, 8 p.m.
This DC rapper and musician is taking his groundbreaking series to the Kennedy Center for one night only with surprise special guests. The series began on the front porch of his family home and eventually evolved into a viral performance that attracted special guests like GoldLink, Raheem DeVaughn, and Backyard Band, and recognition of Snoop Dogg and Kevin Durant. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $44.85
Feature image of That’s So Vintage courtesy Mariah Miranda
