What to Do in NoVA and DC This Weekend: 9 Events for Sept 25–27

From Oktoberfest celebrations and outdoor art shows to an airshow, cultural festivals, wine tasting, and a major Smithsonian anniversary, there is something happening in almost every corner of Northern Virginia and Washington, DC.

If you are looking for things to do in Northern Virginia this weekend, here are nine events worth adding to your September 25–27 plans.

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1. Lovettsville Oktoberfest

Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Downtown Lovettsville, VA

Northern Virginia is getting a little taste of Bavaria this weekend.

The 30th annual Lovettsville Oktoberfest returns with German-inspired food, live entertainment, local vendors, family activities, and plenty of fall energy, all centered around the town’s downtown streets.

It is a one-day celebration this year, making Saturday the day to kick off the first official weekend of fall with food, music, and a lively community atmosphere.

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2. Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show

September 26–27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Historic Occoquan, VA

Historic Occoquan turns into one big outdoor creative district this weekend.

The Fall Arts & Crafts Show brings hundreds of makers into town, giving visitors a chance to shop handmade art, jewelry, pottery, clothing, specialty foods, and other unique finds.

It is a great choice if your ideal fall weekend includes walking around a charming town, browsing local vendors, grabbing something to eat, and spending a few hours outside.

Free admission   |   Rain or shine

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3. Leesburg Airshow

Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Leesburg Executive Airport

Looking for something a little different from the typical fall festival? Head to Leesburg and look up.

The annual Leesburg Airshow returns with aerial performances, aviation displays, activities, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Admission is free, making it an easy option for families looking for something exciting to do in Loudoun County this weekend.

Free admission   |   Family-friendly

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4. Clarendon Day

Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Clarendon Metro Park, Arlington, VA

If you want a little bit of everything in one place, Clarendon Day is a great pick.

Several blocks surrounding Clarendon Metro Park will be filled with live music, food, local businesses, vendors, and activities for children.

The location also makes it easy to spend some extra time exploring Arlington before or after the festival.

Free   |   Rain or shine   |   Metro accessible

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5. Bull Run Wine Festival

September 26–27, noon–5 p.m.
The Winery at Bull Run, Centreville, VA

Fall weather and Virginia wine are a pretty good combination.

The Bull Run Wine Festival brings together wineries, live music, food trucks, vendors, and scenic views for two afternoons at The Winery at Bull Run.

General admission is currently listed at $48, and the event is for guests ages 21 and older.

If you are looking for an adults-only fall outing or a relaxed date idea, this is one to consider.

Ages 21+   |   $48 general admission

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6. Alexandria Fall Art Festival

September 26–27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
John Carlyle Square Park, Alexandria, VA

Art lovers can spend the weekend exploring work from artists from around the country at the Alexandria Fall Art Festival.

Visitors can browse paintings, sculpture, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and other pieces throughout John Carlyle Square Park.

Admission is free, so you can make the festival your main stop for the day or pair it with brunch, coffee, shopping, or a walk around Alexandria.

Free admission

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7. Moon Festival at Eden Center

Saturday, September 26, 4–7 p.m.
Eden Center, Falls Church, VA

Spend Saturday evening celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival at Eden Center in Falls Church.

The Moon Festival, also known as Tết Trung Thu, celebrates Vietnamese culture and traditions with performances, activities, food, and a festive community atmosphere.

While you are there, leave some extra time to explore Eden Center’s restaurants, shops, bakeries, and businesses.

Evening event   |   Family-friendly

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8. Manassas Latino Festival

Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Harris Pavilion, Manassas, VA

Historic Downtown Manassas will be filled with music, dance, food, and culture during the annual Manassas Latino Festival.

The free community event celebrates Latin American heritage with live performances, vendors, food, local organizations, artisans, and family-friendly activities.

Since the festival takes place in the heart of downtown Manassas, it is also easy to explore nearby shops and restaurants while you are there.

Free   |   Family-friendly

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9. The Reunion: National Museum of African American History and Culture 10th Anniversary Celebration

September 24–27
Washington, DC

This weekend also marks a major milestone for one of Washington, DC’s Smithsonian museums.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is celebrating its 10th anniversary with The Reunion, a multi-day series of special programs and celebrations running from September 24 through September 27.

Events throughout the weekend include conversations, community celebrations, evening programming, and anniversary activities.

Some events are free, while others may require tickets or advance registration, so it is a good idea to check the museum’s current schedule before heading into DC.

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Make the Most of the First Weekend of Fall

This is one of those weekends when staying home might actually be the harder choice.

You can spend Saturday shopping local art in Occoquan, watching planes over Leesburg, celebrating Oktoberfest in Loudoun County, tasting Virginia wines in Centreville, or enjoying cultural celebrations in Falls Church and Manassas.

If you are heading into Washington, DC, the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s anniversary weekend gives you another reason to make the trip.

Whether you are looking for family-friendly events in Northern Virginia, a fall date idea, free things to do, or simply somewhere new to explore, September 25 through 27 has plenty to choose from.

Event schedules, ticket availability, and weather-related plans can change, so check directly with the organizer before heading out.