Ah, September. The month when not only the calendar (and leaves) start to transition from summer into fall, but so do the festivals. While the end-of-summer carnivals were a whirl, it’s time to welcome in the region’s best fall festivities. Here are 14 amazing fairs and festivals coming to NoVA this month.
LoCo Music Festival
Sept. 4, 2–9 p.m.
It’s a backyard hangout for a great cause. This all-day jam fest raises money for talented musicians in Loudoun County to purchase equipment that’ll help them further their careers. More than 25 musicians are scheduled to appear. Enjoy local wine from host 868 Estate Vineyards, along with beer and food. Tickets are $20. Kids under 16 get free entry but still need a ticket. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Rd., Hillsboro
Chili Cook-Off and Fall Festival
Sept. 10, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
This year’s event has a little something for everyone, with more than 150 vendors, but the star of the show is the chili cook-off. Arrive early to taste as many chili recipes as you can stomach, then vote for your favorite. Or consider entering the competition yourself. (There’s no cost to enter.) The festival is free and will also have two stages with music and entertainment, along with activities for the family. Stonebridge Town Center, 15201 Potomac Town Pl., Woodbridge
Bands, Brews & Barbecue
Sept. 10—11
Bands, Brews & Barbecue will return to Historic Manassas for its 11th year. The event will feature live music from area bands, beverages from local breweries and distilleries, and plenty of mouthwatering barbecue. Talented pitmasters will also face off in a heated barbecue competition — so come hungry. Manassas Museum Lawn, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas
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
Falls Church Festival
Sept. 17
If you don’t want summer to end, don’t miss the 46th annual Falls Church Festival. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, head to this family-friendly event featuring a beer garden, live music, booths from local crafters and businesses, and lots more. 300 Park Ave., Falls Church
Colonial Market and Fair
Sept. 17–18
Step back in time for the annual Colonial Market and Fair at Mount Vernon. The 12-acre marketplace on Mount Vernon’s field will include colonial artisans selling traditional handcrafted food and wares. Don’t miss period crafting demonstrations and live music from the colonial era. Of course, Gen. Washington himself will be the consummate host, roaming around his property, welcoming guests, and spending time in the General’s Tent. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon
The Bluemont Fair
Sept. 17–18
The 52nd Bluemont Fair is a traditional country fair in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Offerings include local wine, beer, and music; a petting zoo; and an archaeology demonstration. Games in the Children’s Fair section are free, and kids ages 9 and under get in free. 33846 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont
Lovettsville Oktoberfest
Sept. 23–24
Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest has been an annual delight since 1994, although the town saw celebrations of Oktoberfest as early as 1976. Today, the festival spans two days and includes food trucks serving authentic German food, a ceremonial keg tapping, a 5K race and kids’ fun run followed by a pancake breakfast, and a “Biergarten on the Green,” a Munich-style outdoor beer garden. 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville
State Fair of Virginia
Sept. 23–Oct. 2
Make the trip to Doswell for the annual State Fair of Virginia. Learn how to make butter, take in a youth cattle show, or see a trapeze act. There will of course be lots of food, rides, and music. 13191 Dawn Blvd., Doswell
Old Town Warrenton Fall Festival
Sept. 24, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
The Old Town Warrenton Fall Festival is an arts and crafts fair featuring more than 150 displays. The event is visited by about 20,000 attendees annually. Warrenton’s historic Main Street becomes a vibrant hub of artisans, crafters, food vendors, and entertainers, who come from all over to be a part of this town’s autumn tradition. 21 Main Street, Warrenton
DogFest Washington DC
Sept. 24, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
They say a dog is a man’s (or woman’s) best friend and this special festival was created to celebrate that special bond. With a fitness challenge, fundraising opportunities to support Canine Champions, and local vendors, it’s bound to be a great time for you and your pooch. Mention if you’re bringing a dog when registering so you don’t miss out on your free DogFest bandana. Reston Town Center
Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show
Sept. 24–25, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
The charming riverfront town of Occoquan knows how to draw a crowd. Save the date and plan to take a stroll through the historic district as you shop local vendors, try yummy street food, and listen to some live music. And don’t forget to check out the beer garden. Occoquan Historic District
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
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
