Lake Anne

📍Reston

Charlotte Geary for Visit Fairfax

Cox Farms

📍Centreville

April Greer for Visit Fairfax

Fall Events & Activities in Northern Virginia 2026

 

For most of the world, people think summer is the ideal time to tour the National Capital Region. However, ask a local, and they'll tell you it's fall. The crowds of summer die down at popular attractions. The air is crisp and clear and perfect for outdoor fall activities before the cold winter months. Whether you are looking for fall festivals to go to this weekend or want to take the family for some fun in the fall, Fairfax County has it all!

And, oh my, the colors! Each autumn, Fairfax County dons a jaw-dropping cloak of sunset-colored hues. Seen against the backdrop of sites like George Washington's Mount Vernon, Great Falls Park and The Winery at Bull Run, the effect is all the more profound. Maybe even consider planning a colorful hike or a scenic drive to experience the beautiful autumn foliage Northern Virginia has to offer. 

Use our fall bucket list and bring yourself, your family, or your friends to witness this spectacle of nature for yourselves in Fairfax County, Virginia!

AB Variation:

Browse our Seasonal Calendar of Events Below

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5 Favorite Fall Things To Do

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    Places like Great Falls Park, George Mason's Gunston Hall, and George Washington's Mount Vernon are showstoppers when it comes to places to visit in fall with beautiful foliage and plenty of room to roam. 

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    Hiking and biking are definitely at the top of the list when it comes to fall activities in the area. Of course you can always go to a fall festival or pumpkin patch like Basset Hound Farm Festival at Frying Pan Farm or Cox Farms Festival Read our blog on the 10 best fall hiking spots in Northern Virginia for more info.

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    When the air starts getting a bit chilly on crisp autumn evenings, most people like to head inside for some live music and entertainment. If you’re feeling ambitious, check out one of our favorite spots for a cozy outdoor fall date. Check out our updated calendar of live performances for inspiration.

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    There's always fall themed events and festivals throughout the area during autumn. Plus if you’re visiting Fairfax County in September or October, there’s endless things you can do leading up to Halloween. Check out the listings on this page to see upcoming fall events.

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    If it's a spooky time or family fun you're after then look no further than our seemingly endless list of Halloween events in the area. Northern Virginia has tons of themed events for Halloween every year, like Fields of Fear, Halloween parades in our neighborhoods, and more.