Ok people. We're entering a new year, a new decade, and a new mindset. It's time to get out there and see everything there is to see. Lucky for you, here in Fairfax County there are a lot of fun new adventures to be had that weren't around just one short year ago. So get your to-do list out, and see all the new things coming your way in 2020.

Here is a preview of 20 things to look forward to in 2020. For more details, keep reading and use the list below to jump to items you're most interested in.

19th Amendment Centennial Celebration

The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women's constitutional right to vote. The passage marked the largest expansion of democracy in the history of our country. Here in Fairfax County, we have two nationally significant sites that will mark this anniversary in ways no other place can. The Lucy Burns Museum at the Workhouse Arts Center opens its doors in late January to tell the world the story of the suffragists who were imprisoned there for protesting for the right to vote at the White House. And at the adjacent Occoquan Regional Park, the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial will be unveiled in late August and tells the complete story of the women's suffrage movement in America, including African American suffragists who are often less-represented in our history books. 

 

Opening of the National Museum of the United States Army

On June 4, 2020, America will welcome its newest museum - this time dedicated to the oldest and largest branch of the U.S. military. Situated on the grounds of Fort Belvoir, the National Museum of the United States Army will tell the stories of the millions of soldiers that have served in the Army, through exhibits, 306-degree theatrical experiences, and engaging programs. This museum will stand as the crowning achievement of a historical preservation effort nearly as old as the Army itself. Take time to discover this nationwide destination for honor, education, and experience.

 

The VOID

Located in Tysons Corner Center, The VOID is the most immersive virtual reality destination…ever. The VOID allows you to travel into your favorite film (like Jumanji, Avengers, or Star Wars), become your favorite character, and experience the impossible. Guests are encouraged to explore their physical surroundings while interacting with a dynamic, virtual world. You don’t just experience The VOID, you’re in it.

 

Bad Axe Throwing

At Bad Axe, you can embrace your inner backyard Canadian and (with the help of coaches) start slinging axes at targets like a champion. Bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks and make a party of it. You can find their walk-in schedule online, or book your own lane for a party like no other. It's located in the Mosaic District too, which means before and after your axe tossing you can find plenty of other things to do. 

 

Paddywax Candle Bar

Paddywax recently opened its first Virginia location within Reston Town Center and it has been an instant hit. Create your own candle in DIY workshops choosing from over 40 fragrances and over 60 containers. And if you don't want to make your own, they, of course, have pre-made candles for you to browse as well as other accessories. 

 

Silver Line Metro Extension

Sometime in mid-2020, if you need to get to Dulles Airport and don't want to deal with driving, traffic, shuttles, etc., you'll finally have another option. Metrorail. The long-anticipated Silver Line extension will finally make getting to and from Dulles Airport more accessible than ever. 

 

River-Sea Chocolate Factory

Did you know that there was a chocolate factory here in Fairfax County? River-Sea is located in Chantilly - just next door to Ono Brewing Company - and creates their delicious chocolate creations by sourcing the ingredients from small-scale growers that use only sustainable farming methods. They now also have a Liquid Chocolate Cafe, where you can order delectable beverages like Hot Cocoa, Coffee and Cacao Brews, and more. Craft beer is a thing, and now so is craft chocolate.  And speaking of craft beer...

 

Fairfax County's New Brewery Field Guide Program

Visit all our breweries. Get rewarded. It's kind of that simple. Of course, there are a few more details you can find on our breweries page. You can get the paper version of the Field Guide at the breweries or the Fairfax County Visitor Center, or you can download the free Visit Fairfax app and go digital. Totally up to you.

 

Gunston Hall's Garden Restoration Project

The amazing folks at George Mason's Gunston Hall are in the process of finalizing a truly amazing restoration project. After decades of researching and planning, they are set to unveil a historically significant one-acre site overlooking the Potomac River which will be restored to its 18th-century appearance. When finished, its layout and plantings will be a must-see destination for all. You can read more about the project here.

 

Workhouse Arts Center LOVEworks Unveiling

During the summer of 2019, we were involved in a little project that spread some LOVE all over Fairfax County. And in February, the Workhouse Arts Center will unveil Fairfax County's first permanent Virginia "LOVEwork" sign for all to enjoy for all eternity. Stay tuned for updates on this unveiling of the beautifully bedazzled letters. 

 

Cirque du Soleil presents Alegría: In a New Light

Tysons welcomes back Cirque du Soleil in July where our friends will perform Alegría: In a New Light under the big top to adoring audiences. With breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes, and a timeless story - we're sure this performance of Cirque will once again leave fans astounded and amazed.

 

Shipgarten

The people who made a loyal fanbase out of folks for Tysons Biergarten are turning their attention to something more creative. Shipgarten. Shipgarten is going to be Northern Virginia's first roaming outdoor lifestyle experience, which will feature four separate food and drink experiences - each housed in their own 40-foot shipping container. Surrounding the containers will be a traditional biergarten area, a fenced-in dog area, a family zone, and an entertainment venue. Yeah, we can't wait to see this either. Coming this spring/summer to Scott's Run in Tysons. 

 

Autonomous Shuttles

So you keep reading stories about all these self-driving cars, huh? Well, now you can try them out for yourself as autonomous shuttles arrive at the Dunn Loring Metro Station to take you to and from the Mosaic District. Sound futuristic? Well...it is 2020 you know. 

 

Wolf Trap's 2020 Summer Concerts

Each year, Wolf Trap brings the entertainers and the crowds bring the energy. This year will be no different as Wolf Trap has already unveiled some of the artists that will grace the Filene Center Stage.  It's never too early to start planning your summer outing to Northern Virginia - so keep that picnic basket in tip-top shape throughout the winter and get ready for some fun once summer begins. Tell us who you're most excited to see on stage in the comments below!

 

Rolling Thunder 2020

The rumors of Rolling Thunder's demise, as it turns out, were greatly exaggerated. After the organizers of the Memorial Day weekend event stepped down after years of making this event awesome, the folks at AMVETS stepped in to fill the leadership gap. They will continue the tradition under the name of Rolling To Remember. This ensures that one of America's greatest patriotic displays will continue during the annual Washington, DC. event. Check out the tentative schedule here. 

 

Green Spring Gardens Turns 50

One of Fairfax County's outdoor treasures, Green Spring Gardens, turns 50 this year and it has never looked more enchanting. Green Spring continues to have one of the most robust garden activity calendars around and is always beautiful to visit any time of year. Make sure to plan a visit there this year to celebrate this garden's golden anniversary. 

 

The St. James' Super Awesome & Amazing Center

If you're looking for a day of exploration, action, and thrills - look no further than the Super, Awesome & Amazing facility located within The St. James. It’s a great way to try something new and get the family moving. You'll find a 30,000-square-foot venue with a waterpark, virtual reality center, climbing and obstacle course, and top-of-the-line eSports hub. Your kids are thanking you already!

 

The (World Champion) Washington Nationals

Take a quick Metro ride to Nats Park and say thank you to the World Series champs for bringing a baseball title back to Washington, DC. Pitchers and catchers report to spring training in early February so the baseball season isn't that far away. Make plans to stay here during the season at one of our Metro-accessible hotels. 

 

Aslin's Herndon Taproom

Will this finally happen? Oh, pretty, pretty please! Herndon start-up brewery Aslin Beer Co. has stepped up their beer game in a big way the past couple of years and now has a loyal following nationwide. They've been talking about opening a new taproom in Herndon for a bit now, and we have a good feeling that 2020 might be the year it comes to life! (fingers crossed!) 

 

Woodlawn and Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope Leighey House

In 2020, Woodlawn is upping the experiential ante with some new innovative, interpretive, and fun programming in the works, plus an expanding event series, new preservation projects, the 80th Anniversary of Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House, and the creation of an extraordinary trail system within the site's grounds. Both attractions open again this spring and we can't wait to see what they have in store!

 

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Have another exciting event or attraction opening in 2020 that you want to share with us? Let us know in the comments below or via social media by tagging us with #FXVA or @VisitFairfax and we'll help spread the news. Have a great start to the year and we look forward to welcoming you all to Fairfax County this year.