(Image source: MMKrealty.com)
Written by Lindsey Hollaar, Mama's Cuppa
In Virginia, we’re lucky to see the beauty of all four seasons in their fullest forms. One season stands out the most to me - fall. It signals the start of a new school year and a time to welcome cooler weather (especially after the scorching summer we had). If you’re like me, nothing feels more like fall than spending time outdoors. For families with little ones, it can be tricky to find activities the whole family can enjoy.
I’ve searched for the best activities, events, and festivals that families can enjoy from September - November. So, grab a caramel apple and let’s jump into some harvest celebrations!
- Cox Farms Fall Festival: The kick-off weekend is September 16 - 17, then the farm is open Thursdays - Mondays beginning September 23 - November 6, plus Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Tickets for their fall festivals book up quickly, especially Saturdays and Sundays, so plan ahead!
- The Falls Church Festival celebrates its 47th annual event in The Little City on Saturday, September 23rd from 10-4. Bring the whole family to enjoy local food, live music, children’s entertainment, local artisans, a beer garden, and much more! This is a free event, but be sure to plan out where you’ll park as many streets will be closed to accommodate the event.
- Oktoberfest at The Boro | Saturday, September 23rd from 2-5. What’s fall without a traditional Oktoberfest celebration? This event will have your mouth watering by the smell of traditional German food and beer. The stein holding competition is sure to be a can’t miss for all beer lovers! Listen to a traditional polka band to really put you in the Oktoberfest spirit! All ages can enjoy this free event!
- Vienna Oktoberfest | Saturday, October 7th from 11am - 7pm. Sip on some libations from local breweries while you shop through the vendor and artisan marketplace in the small town of Vienna, Va. Live entertainment and free kids activities will be sure to be a crowd pleaser. Admission is free and volunteer opportunities are available. babycito will be there with free activities in the Kids Zone located on the Towne Green!
- Butler’s Orchard | Starting Saturday, September 23rd in Germantown, MD. I had to include one of my personal favorites in this list! We’ve been going to Butler’s Orchard for the past few years for our family’s annual pumpkin picking. What I love about Butler’s is they have activities for all ages! For the “big kids” including my husband, there’s a pumpkin cannon, corn hole, a corn maze, alcoholic cider, and live music. For the little kids, there is hay bale climbing, giant slides, a petting zoo, a corn pool, pedal tractors, face painting, and much more! The hayride to the pumpkin patch is my favorite activity at Butler’s! Hang on to your hats, because it’s a bumpy ride!
Is your family looking for a road trip? These fall events are out of the DMV area, but definitely worth the drive!
- Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens | Williamsburg, VA through October 31st. I’d recommend this event for families with children that are 10 or older. In the past, Busch Gardens has listed a scare guide for each attraction, but this year is a bit different. You’re guaranteed a frightful night with five haunted houses, four shows, and much more. Not all theme park rides are operating during Howl-O-Scream, refer to their map to see what is open. I’ve always enjoyed going to Howl-O-Scream for the delicious fall food and the spooky atmosphere.
- Hersheypark Halloween | Hershey, PA through October 29th. Only a short (2-ish hour) trip from Northern Virginia is Hersheypark! This season, experience Hersheypark Halloween like never before. Trick or treat your way through Treatville until 8 PM each night. Get your groove on with your friends during the Hershey Character Glow Dance Parties. Discover wild nocturnal animals in the dark at Creatures Of The Night®. Feel the rushing thrill of iconic coasters, and even ride some in the dark. And dare to face the frightening terrors of Dark Nights (not recommended for children under 13) that lurk in the shadows. Read more here in the Family Friendly Guide to Hersheypark Halloween 2023.
Wishing you a happy harvest season filled with wonderful memories, good weather, and beautiful scenery!