Things to Do this October in Fairfax County

October is one of the most fun-filled months in Fairfax County, filled to the brim with special events, fall festivals and harvest days, month-long celebrations, spooky Halloween activities, and absolutely stunning fall foliage drive tours and viewpoints. We don’t blame you if your calendar fills up quicker than a seven-year-old can fill his trick-or-treat bag! 🍬 🎃

Here’s a guide to some of the best events, festivals, and activities happening in Fairfax County this October.

Festival Central

Image courtesy Mount Vernon

In September, we told you about a few fun fall festivals in the area. October keeps the fun going with not just seasonal fun, but several annual events that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few to keep in mind.

Oktoberfests and Harvest Days

Autumn is known for harvest time, and many of our wineries and breweries are hard at work collecting the fruits of their labor. In addition to the natural-grown harvests, you can also find good old-fashioned fun at these special Oktoberfest celebrations and Family Harvest Days.

Halloween Town

Image courtesy Jack's Pumpkin Glow

Whether you are a fearless Halloween warrior or prefer to leave the frights to someone else, you can bet there is a Halloween activity that will get you in the spirit in Fairfax County. There are some great trick-or-treating events at attractions like the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and George Washington’s Mount Vernon and there are some classic haunted trails, houses, and fields that may be fun for the older kids. Want to explore fields of pumpkin patches or glowing jack o’lantern sanctuaries? Or finally get your selfie with the Iron Throne? Find all the Halloween fun you can muster right here. Bookmark it for later as we’re always adding more events.

Seasonal Kick-Offs and Special Events

Image courtesy Town of Clifton

Just when you thought Wolf Trap shows were a thing of summer past, they hit you with a stellar lineup at their intimate Fall and Spring venue, The Barns. The shows kick off on October 10 with Lucy Kaplansky. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the shows slated for this year, but you can always find the full schedule at wolftrap.org.

George Mason University’s Center for the Arts is also kicking off a slate of fresh shows for the year, starting with LADAMA on October 4.

Plus, October is filled with special events including these gems:

Fall Foliage Touring

Image courtesy John Cozen, taken at Burke Lake Park

October is usually when the colors start to peak, and Virginia is known for some breathtaking scenic splendor. Here are several places where you can enjoy nature’s showcase from the ground and a few nearby scenic drives you can take to enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle.

In addition, don’t miss the Fall Color Kayak Tour at Occoquan Regional Park on October 19 to see the scenery from the water. Limited spaces available!

Did we miss something that you absolutely love to do each October in Fairfax County? Tell us in the comments below and share your favorite fall fun with us on social using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.