This weekend near Herndon
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TodayFriday, October 16
All day, through Jan 31Free
About 5 min drive5 minTephra Institute of Contemporary Art, Reston, VAMid-career retrospective of sculptor Janet Echelman spanning four decades, from early drawings and maquettes to full-scale net sculptures. The show presents softness as both material and philosophy, with works shaped by wind, light, and engineered fiber. Free admission.
All day, through Dec 31Free
About 10 min drive10 minReston, VAFree community-led morning Tai Chi at Hunters Woods Plaza, a daily drop-in session open to all.
5 to 10:30pm$5
About 20 min drive20 minHilton Fairfax, Fairfax, VAEvening card show at the Hilton Fairfax: 80+ vendors with sports cards, TCGs and collectibles to buy, sell and trade. Presented by The Trading Ground. $5 entry, 5 PM to 10:30 PM.
7:30 to 11pm, through Oct 17$25
About 25 min drive25 minCox Farms, Centreville, VACox Farms turns scary after dark. More than 20 acres of haunted attractions: the Cornightmare haunted corn maze, the Dark Side Hayride, and The Forest, a half-mile woodland walk. Between scares, the Firegrounds has bonfires, a dance party, karaoke, a six-lane slide, and the Fear Market. Separate ticket from the daytime festival; online only. Not recommended for kids under 12.
All day, through Nov 7
About 25 min drive25 minMcLean Community Center, McLean, VAThe 15th iteration of MPA's juried biennial celebrating painting and works related to painting, featuring dozens of mid-Atlantic artists across media. On view in the Emerson and Atrium Galleries at the McLean Community Center, with a Tea and Talk on October 21.
9pm$18
About 25 min drive25 minFalls Church, VASaved By The 90's returns to the State Theatre with the Bayside Tigers for a full-throttle 90s dance party, playing the decade's biggest hits live. Tickets from about $18. 9 PM.
All day, through Jan 24
About 30 min drive30 minMuseum of Contemporary Art Arlington, Arlington, VAFive artists with deep ties to Maine's Penobscot Bay coast work across sculpture, textiles, video, and photography. The show traces environmental change and creative resourcefulness along the rugged shoreline. Part of MoCA Arlington's Assembly 2026 biennial.
All day, through Jan 24
About 30 min drive30 minMuseum of Contemporary Art Arlington, Arlington, VAFour Atlanta-based artists (Sheila Pree Bright, Michi Meko, Paul Stephen Benjamin, Shanequa Gay) examine the Southern landscape as a site of memory, power, and unresolved history. Part of MoCA Arlington's Assembly 2026 biennial marking the nation's 250th anniversary.
7 to 10:30pm, through Oct 17$25
About 35 min drive35 minARTfactory, Manassas, VAARTfactory's fifth annual haunt turns four floors of the historic Manassas building into Outbreak, a walk-through of infection and quarantine with live actors. Proceeds support arts programming; not for kids under 14.
All day, through Oct 16Free
About 35 min drive35 minWorld Bank, Washington, DCFour-day fintech and policy conference. Opens Oct 13 with full-day programming at the World Bank in DC, moves to Amazon HQ2 in Arlington on Oct 14, then runs salon-style sessions at the Milken Institute and FINRA headquarters in DC on Oct 15 and 16. The 2026 program covers stablecoins and programmable finance, real-world asset tokenization, smart contracts, digital identity, and crypto market structure. Free with registration; 2,300+ in-person attendees expected.
All day, through Dec 31Free
About 40 min drive40 minThe Kreeger Museum, Washington, DCSeven Hamiltonian Artists alumni show painting, photography, sculpture, video, and installation at the Kreeger Museum, alongside boundary-pushing works from the museum's permanent collection by Sam Gilliam, Frank Stella, Simmie Knox, and William Christenberry. Curated by Anisa Olufemi and presented under The Collaborative, the Kreeger's program supporting Washington-area artists.
All day, through Oct 18
About 40 min drive40 minMiddleburg, VAAward-season film festival in Middleburg, October 15–18, 2026. Screenings are ticketed; the festival page did not list a dollar price.
All day, through Nov 8
About 40 min drive40 minThe Artists in Middleburg, Middleburg, VAJuried group exhibition at The Artists in Middleburg gallery celebrating the seasons of Virginia's Piedmont region. Opening reception on October 3.
10pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCGrammy-winning singer-songwriter Allison Russell headlines a late show at 9:30 Club, touring her forthcoming third album after Outside Child and The Returner. Folk and Americana with her Rainbow Coalition ensemble; Autumn Nicholas opens. $1 per ticket supports the ACLU. Doors 10 PM.
All day, through Jan 17
About 40 min drive40 minNational Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, DCThe East Coast debut of a touring exhibition of twentieth-century African American quilts made in California, tracing how migration west shaped a distinct quilting tradition. An NMWA presentation that opened September 18 and runs into the new year.
All day, through Oct 31Free
About 40 min drive40 minDel Ray Artisans Gallery, Alexandria, VACarnival and circus themed group exhibition at Del Ray Artisans, from fun foods and games to haunted oddities. Opens with a reception on October 2 and closes with a masquerade party and People's Choice award on October 30. Free, donations appreciated.
7 to 10pm, through Oct 17$39
About 40 min drive40 minWorkhouse Arts Center, Lorton, VAThe Workhouse Haunt's 13th-year trail Dark Encounters winds through dark woods on the old Lorton Prison grounds with professional scare actors. Built for adults, ages 13-plus; a sensory-friendly session runs Oct 17, 6 to 7.
All day, through Nov 8
About 40 min drive40 minArches Gallery, Lorton, VASolo exhibition of mythical creatures and magical places by Donnalynne Lefever at the Arches Gallery in the Workhouse. Layered paintings inspired by mythology and dreams, with an artist reception on October 10.
All day, through Nov 7Free
About 40 min drive40 minWorkhouse Arts Center, Lorton, VADocumentary photographs by Lloyd Wolf record a pioneering drug rehabilitation program inside the Lorton Reformatory from 1989 to 1991. Shown where the events took place, the images trace recovery and resilience among incarcerated men. On view in the McGuireWoods Gallery with an artist reception on October 3.
2 more, 45 min or fartherBrentwood, Germantown
All day, through Oct 18
About 50 min drive50 minBlackRock Center for the Arts, Germantown, MDFinal stop of the first survey of women visual artists from the DC metro region, curated by Florencio Lennox Campello. A greatest-hits selection of more than 20 artists closes a year-long run that spanned 20 art spaces. On view at BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown through October 18.
All day, through Oct 31
About 50 min drive50 minBrentwood Arts Exchange, Brentwood, MDAnniversary exhibition celebrating 25 years of the Washington Glass School: founders, resident artists, instructors and alumni showing sculpture, installation, public art and architectural glass. On view at the Brentwood Arts Exchange in the Gateway Arts District through October 31.
TomorrowSaturday, October 17
11 to 11:30am
About 5 min drive5 minReston, VAPop-up storytime in the children's department.
11am, every SaturdayFree
About 5 min drive5 minBarnes & Noble Reston, Reston, VAWeekly in-store storytime for little ones at 11 AM on Saturdays.
9:30am, one of 2 dates
About 5 min drive5 minReston, VACommunity dog walk meetup at Reston Town Center.
10am to 5pmFree
About 5 min drive5 minReston Town Center, Reston, VAStreet chalk art, live music, and family activities at Reston Town Center on October 17. Attending is free; the art contest needs registration.
8am to 12pm, every SaturdayFree
About 10 min drive10 minReston, VAWeekly Saturday farmers market at Lake Anne Village Center with local produce, vendors, and occasional live music.
11am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 10 min drive10 minHerndon, VAFarm harvest festival and carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park.
11am to 9pm, through Oct 18
About 10 min drive10 minHerndon, VAWeekend fall harvest celebration at Frying Pan Farm Park with hands-on farm activities, demonstrations, livestock, rides, and a carnival.
All day, every SaturdayFree
About 10 min drive10 minReston, VAWalk in for coffee, a breakfast bite, and fellowship Saturday mornings at RCC Hunters Woods; all are welcome.
All dayFree
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VASpecial 250 Celebration in Great Falls village with Hello Cleveland and Radio Vinyl on the big stage behind the Post Office.
10am to 1:30pm, every SaturdayFree
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAYear-round Saturday farmers market with local produce, meats, baked goods, and plants in the heart of Great Falls village.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 18Free
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAAnnual self-guided driving tour of private artist studios across Great Falls. Visit painters, potters, photographers, jewelers, and sculptors in their own workspaces, from converted barns to home studios. Free and open to the public.
11am to 12pm
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAFamily-friendly string quartet performance at Great Falls Library.
3:30 to 5pm
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAQuiet teen study session with free supplies and snacks.
10am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 7 mi away7 miVienna, VAFour-day estate sale at 2210 Loch Lomond Drive in Vienna, running Friday October 16 through Sunday October 18 this weekend, 10am to 3pm each day, with clothing, collectibles and household goods.
9am to 4pm
About 20 min drive20 minAshburn, VACard fest in Ashburn: 100+ vendors with sports cards, TCGs and collectibles to buy, sell and trade. Presented by Starlight Cards & Co. 9 AM to 4 PM.
10am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 20 min drive20 minLoudoun County farms, Loudoun County, VASelf-guided visits to Loudoun County farms on October 17–18, about 10am–4pm. Free with no tickets; some stops charge for food or activities.
6 to 9pm$192.60
About 20 min drive20 minThe Palm - Tysons, Tysons, VAFive-course anniversary dinner at The Palm pairing Italian and Napa wines (Marchese Antinori, Stag's Leap) with signature dishes. $192.60 including tax and gratuity.
1 to 6pmFree
About 20 min drive20 minShipgarten, McLean, VAOktoberfest with a Renaissance theme at Shipgarten's beer garden: German beers, food, live entertainment, and themed activities. Free entry.
11:30am to 4pm, through Oct 17
About 8 mi away8 miVienna, VAEstate sale at 386 Maple Avenue East in Vienna on Friday October 16 and Saturday October 17, 11:30am to 4pm, with gold coins, antiques, jewelry and collectibles at an offsite warehouse.
10am to 6pm, through Nov 8
About 25 min drive25 minCentreville, VANorthern Virginia's largest fall festival spans 90+ acres with hayrides, giant slides, the Cornundrum corn maze, farm animals, and live entertainment on select days through Nov 8.
8am to 12pm, every SaturdayFree
About 25 min drive25 minVienna, VAProducer-only Saturday farmers market with weekly live musicians and free dog-sitting at the manager's tent; market fees fund Optimist Club kids' programs in Vienna and Oakton.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 18Free
About 25 min drive25 minVienna Community Center, Vienna, VAFree admission coin and stamp show at the Vienna Community Center, with coins and currency, stamps, tokens, and collectibles. Young numismatists program Saturday 11 AM to noon, door prizes, snack bar. Contact Lorne Lavertu, 703-559-1111.
10:30 to 11am, every Saturday
About 25 min drive25 minFalls Church, VAWeekly Saturday family storytime for children birth to 5.
1 to 2pm
About 25 min drive25 minFalls Church, VAKids brain-health and wellness workshop at Tysons-Pimmit Library.
2 to 10:15pm, through Oct 18$18
About 25 min drive25 minMcLean, VAA laugh-out-loud musical comedy about Wednesday Addams falling for a perfectly normal young man.
8am and 9am, every SaturdayFree
About 25 min drive25 minCity Hall parking lot, Falls Church, VAAward-winning year-round Saturday farmers market in the City Hall parking lot in Falls Church, with 50+ vendors plus a monthly Chef Series; no ZIP listed on the event page.
8pm$17
About 25 min drive25 minState Theatre, Falls Church, VAUrgent recreates the arena-rock anthems of Foreigner, from Cold as Ice to I Want to Know What Love Is, at the State Theatre. Tickets from about $17. 8 PM.
9:30am to 6pm, through Nov 8$15.95
About 25 min drive25 minLeesburg Animal Park, Leesburg, VAFall festival with wagon rides, giant hill slides, moon bounces, pedal carts, corn bin, animal encounters and weekend live entertainment; online tickets required on weekends.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 18
About 11 mi away11 miFairfax, VAFurniture liquidation sale at 8300 Merrifield Avenue Suite 2 in Fairfax, Friday October 16 through Sunday October 18, 10am to 5pm, with designer and mid-range furniture, decor and lighting.
10am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 11 mi away11 miMcLean, VAEstate sale at 7218 Evans Mill Road in McLean, Friday October 16 through Sunday October 18, 10am to 3pm each day, with pottery, furniture, art and home goods.
10 to 11am, through Oct 18$10
About 30 min drive30 minGlen Echo, MDSweet puppet shows designed for the youngest theater patrons, with the lights on and doors open.
11:30am to 1:45pm, through Oct 18
About 30 min drive30 minGlen Echo, MDThe Puppet Co. presents Jennie the Cat: A Halloween Adventure, a Helen Hayes-nominated puppet show with cuddly puppets, audience interaction, and original music.
8am to 1pm
About 12 mi away12 miMcLean, VAKids yard sale at 6600 Mulroy Street in McLean on Saturday October 17, 8am to 1pm, with childrens clothing, books, toys and toy storage.
10am to 3pmFree
About 35 min drive35 minAnnandale, VASecond annual community art festival in downtown Annandale with more than 50 local and regional artists, hands-on artmaking booths, and a performance stage with music, dance, comedy, and theater. Free, rain or shine.
11am to 7pm, through Oct 18
About 35 min drive35 minClifton, VAParadise Springs Winery celebrates harvest season October 16 to 18, 11am to 7pm daily, with special tastings, harvest tours, lawn games, and artisan food trucks. Kids are welcome on the lawn.
10am to 2pm, through Oct 18$16
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDChicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical is a joy-filled celebration of letters, words, and imagination with puppets, lively dancing, and audience interaction.
3pm, through Oct 18$13
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAEncore Stage & Studio opens its 2026/27 season with Hansel & Gretel, a magical family adventure performed by young actors at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre.
10am to 9pm, through Oct 23
About 35 min drive35 minWashington, DCGeorgetown Cupcake is serving Halloween-themed cupcakes daily through October 31 for spooky season.
11am to 4:30pm, through Oct 18Free
About 35 min drive35 minWashington, DCWeekend hands-on art-making at the REACH celebrating creativity and the artist in everyone.
12 to 5pmFree
About 35 min drive35 minJerusalem FundDay of Palestinian music, exhibits, performances, and children's activities at The Jerusalem Fund, 2425 Virginia Avenue NW: a choir singing traditional Palestinian folk songs, children's storytime, a souq market, a dabke performance, poetry, an exhibit on the festival the Fund has hosted since 1977, and traditional olive harvest activities. Free.
9am to 4pm$5
About 40 min drive40 minGaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center, Gaithersburg, MDCard show at the Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center: 100+ vendors with sports cards, TCGs and collectibles to buy, sell and trade. Presented by MINTD Card Show. $5 entry, 9 AM to 4 PM.
1 to 6pm, through Oct 18
About 40 min drive40 minWaverly Street Gallery, Bethesda, MDSolo paintings by Pat Silbert celebrating the Potomac River and the sacred value of the natural world. The work responds to Robert Macfarlane's book Is a River Alive with an emphatic yes. At the member-run Waverly Street Gallery in downtown Bethesda; reception Friday, October 2. Gallery open Thursday through Sunday, 1 to 6 pm.
6 to 8pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minCroydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville, MDRockville's nature center Halloween night with games, treats, crafts, a magician, balloon twisters, and a campfire. Kids 5-12 can add a ticketed 30-minute non-spooky guided forest hike to meet friendly woodland creatures and collect goodies. Free; hike tickets $10 residents, $12 nonresidents. Costumes encouraged.
11am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minAmerican University Museum at the Katzen Arts CenterMajor exhibition of Korean contemporary artist Ahn Chang-Hong at the American University Museum in the Katzen Arts Center, Sep 5 through Dec 6. Museum open Tue-Sun 11 AM to 4 PM; free admission.
11am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minAmerican University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, Washington, DCSolo exhibition of Islamic calligraphy by Ayesha Kamal, part of the museum's fall 2026 season on life, beauty, faith, and sorrow. Runs alongside shows by Ahn Chang-Hong, Norman S. Carr, and Mary Garrard. Free admission.
2 to 3pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minAmerican University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, Washington, DCOne-time gallery talk on Norman S. Carr's fall exhibition of urban street photographs, part of the AU Museum's fall 2026 season. Free; galleries open 11am-4pm.
12:30 to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree Saturday carillon recital on the Cathedral grounds.
1 to 1:45pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree 15-minute Spotlight Talks by a Phillips educator on a work from the permanent collection or a special exhibition; no reservations required.
11am to 1pm, every Saturday
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCHands-on science playtime at Because Science designed for children ages 2 to 5.
12 to 3pm, every Saturday
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCOutdoor fall concert series in Dupont Circle park.
5 to 8pm
About 40 min drive40 minLeesburg, VAFavorite Child blends soulful indie rock with rich three-part harmonies at Vanish on Saturday, October 17 from 5 to 8pm.
12 to 4pm, through Oct 18$400
About 40 min drive40 minMexican Cultural Institute DCArtist Ana Elisa Romo leads an eight-session, hands-on workshop in Mexican cartoneria (papier-mache folk art) at the Mexican Cultural Institute. Two tracks: Tue/Thu evenings or Sat/Sun afternoons. Finished Catrinas join the Institute's Day of the Dead Open House exhibition. $400 for all eight sessions.
3 to 6pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCOpen family afternoon at the J with activities for all ages.
10pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCAvant-garde art rock collective The Residents perform their Eskimo Live show, a staging of their 1979 concept album, as a late-night 9:30 Club set. Expect costumes, surreal visuals, and the group's trademark anonymous theatricality. Doors 10 PM.
11am to 2pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree NMAAHC Kids Book Day celebrating the children's book 123 I Like You and Me with activities, games, and hands-on explorations for ages 4 to 8.
10am to 5pm, through Dec 31$10
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCVirtual reality experience stepping back to 1776 to discover how Patriots worked together to thwart a British invasion.
12:30 to 3pm, through Dec 31Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree costumed demonstration meeting an 1890s cyclist to learn how the safety bicycle brought women greater mobility and independence.
11am to 6pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWorkhouse Arts Center, Lorton, VAFamily festival on the Workhouse campus with live music, food trucks, local small business and craft vendors, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, glassblowing demos, and field games. Free admission, raising funds for the Lorton Community Action Center.
11 to 11:30am, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCThemed Saturday sketching tour of portraits with educator-led artmaking in the Education Center afterward.
11:30am and 1pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree weekend drop-in art program exploring a different artistic medium inspired by the Portrait Gallery's collections.
11:30am to 6pm, through Dec 31Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCHands-on family discovery space for ages 18 months to 8 with portrait-themed play activities like tracing silhouettes and building faces; all children must be accompanied by an adult.
2 to 3pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minMeyer AuditoriumFireside conversation on Korean culture and cultural diplomacy with former US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns and Ambassador of Korea to the US Kang Kyung-wha, moderated by NMAA director Chase Robinson. In person in the Meyer Auditorium and online. Free with registration.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCSaturday morning neighborhood market next to Milian Park with produce, orchard fruit, grass-fed meats, baked goods, coffee, and prepared foods.
10am to 5:30pm, through Dec 24Free
About 40 min drive40 minHirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, DCA long-overdue survey of American abstract photographer Carlotta Corpron (1901-1988), whose experiments with light, form, and photographic technology helped establish photography as fine art. The show traces six bodies of work made in Texas from the late 1930s to the early 1950s, from nature studies to light drawings, anchored by 48 recent gifts from collector Herbert Lust.
2 to 3pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCGuided tours of the National Gallery Sculpture Garden.
8am to 1pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCJoin the Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction at The Wharf to raise awareness and support for people and families impacted by addiction.
10am to 5pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCLibrary outreach at the National Building Museum's Big Build festival.
10am to 2pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree October Saturday art-making sessions inspired by artists such as Aliza Nisenbaum, Picasso, and Joan Mitchell, with live music from Inspired Child.
10am to 2pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFeatured building festival at the National Building Museum.
10am and 10:30am, one of 5 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minSmithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, DCFree 25-minute live guided planetarium tour of the current night sky, generally on the first and third Saturdays of each month; timed-entry passes required.
2:30 to 4:30pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree drop-in art-making for teens ages 13-19 painting portraits in pairs inspired by Aliza Nisenbaum.
11:15am to 12:15pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree interactive story time with a children's book by a Native author or illustrator, plus hands-on objects and a craft for ages 3-9.
1:15 to 2:15pm, every SaturdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree family-friendly tour of the Water's Edge exhibition with guided discussion and a take-home water-inspired art activity for ages 4-10.
2 to 4pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWizard-school themed scavenger hunt at the National Gallery of Art.
10:30am to 3:30pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree Library of Congress Family Day honoring Ben Franklin as part of the America 250 commemoration, with hands-on activities and a visit from Franklin himself.
10:30 to 11am, through Oct 18
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWeekly in-store story time at Solid State Books; Thursdays for babies and toddlers, Saturdays for ages 0-5, Sundays for ages 4 and up.
10am to 2pm, through Oct 18
About 17 mi away17 miWashington, DCChevy Chase estate sale with a large selection of top-tier designer clothing, plus furniture, cookware, stemware, jewelry, shoes and books throughout the home.
SundayOctober 18
8am to 12pm
About 5 min drive5 minReston, VACharity walk benefiting the Alzheimer's Association.
11am to 6pm, one of 2 dates$10
About 10 min drive10 minFrying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VAThree-day fall celebration with carnival rides, Big Truck Night, farm animals and harvest activities; admission free, parking $10 per vehicle, ride wristbands extra.
9am to 4pm
About 20 min drive20 minFairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks, Fairfax, VATCG show at the Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks, presented by NoVA PokeShow (formerly NoVA PokeShow, rebranding to GOD PACK). Pokemon, Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh, Lorcana and more to buy, sell and trade. 9 AM to 4 PM.
8 to 11am, every SundayFree
About 25 min drive25 minMcLean, VAVolunteer-guided Sunday morning bird walk meeting in the main parking lot; all levels welcome, minors with an adult.
10 to 11:30am$12
About 25 min drive25 minGreat Falls, VALearn about prehistoric sharks, fish, and reptiles at Riverbend Park (page shows 10:00 am to 11:30 pm, likely a typo for am).
5 to 10pm
About 25 min drive25 minMcLean Community Center, McLean, VACommunity celebration of the McLean Community Center's 50th anniversary with music through the decades, food, a signature drink and interactive attractions.
11am to 5pm$20
About 25 min drive25 minClemyjontri Park, McLean, VACalm Halloween day at Clemyjontri Park with treat stations, carousel and train rides, and crafts; reduced noise and sensory supports. $20/person.
9am to 2pm, every SundayFree
About 30 min drive30 minFairfax, VAYear-round family-friendly Sunday farmers market in the Mosaic District with produce, baked goods, coffee, prepared foods, and dog treats.
2:30 to 3:30pm
About 30 min drive30 minGlen Echo, MDMarsha and the Positrons bring playful, educational kindie rock songs mixing science facts with messages about kindness and friendship to The Puppet Co.
11am to 1:30pm$25
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDFamily workshop building an Operation-style game (two sessions merged).
2:30 to 4pm, one of 2 dates$25
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDOpen electronics studio session for 4th grade and up.
7:30pm
About 35 min drive35 minNorth Bethesda, MDThe Cuban jazz piano legend marks his 85th birthday with guests Joe Lovano and Etienne Charles at the Music Center. Expect an evening of Afro-Cuban jazz and Latin big-band energy from one of the genre's most decorated living masters.
7pm$45
About 35 min drive35 minMerchant Hall, Manassas, VAGrammy winner Kathy Mattea hosts a live on-the-road taping of NPR's Mountain Stage in Merchant Hall, with featured artists Mary Gauthier, Ruthie Foster, and Scythian spanning roots, folk, blues, and country. Tickets from about $45. 7 PM.
10:30 to 11amFree
About 40 min drive40 minRockville, MDNot-so-spooky Halloween stories; costume optional.
2pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DC54th annual BSF/LSF school fair at the University of the District of Columbia Student Center, connecting families with local schools.
8am to 4pm, every SundayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCIconic weekly Sunday flea market in Georgetown (est. 1972): antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds. Every Sunday, 8am-4pm, rain or shine. Free admission for shoppers.
8:30am to 1:30pm, every SundayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCDC's flagship year-round Sunday farmers market with 80-plus local farmers and producers selling produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and flowers along 20th Street NW.
8:30am to 1:30pm, every SundayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCYear-round Sunday farmers market with 50+ local farmers plus prepared foods, flowers, and artisan goods in Dupont Circle.
10am to 3pm, every SundayFree
About 40 min drive40 minDupont Circle, Washington, DCFestive weekly marketplace for vintage and antique housewares, art, jewelry, clothing, LPs, and micro-local art. Every Sunday, 10am-3pm in Dupont Circle.
11 to 11:30amFree
About 40 min drive40 minSilver Spring, MDBilingual English/French storytime.
12 to 4pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCelebrate six years of Planet Word with signature exhibit experiences.
8pm$63.50
About 40 min drive40 minWarner Theatre, Washington, DCWelch and Rawlings play an acoustic Grateful Dead program at the Warner Theatre. JamBase lists tickets from $63.50.
10am to 12pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFall harvest family program at the National Museum of American History.
11am to 7pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree family-friendly celebration of Turkish Heritage Month with live music, folk dancing, fortune telling, kids activities, and Turkish cuisine on Pennsylvania Avenue NW.
10:15 to 11am
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCSensory early-childhood program at the National Museum of Natural History.
10:30 to 11am, one of 3 dates
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCSesame Street planetarium show for young children.
10:30 to 10:55am, one of 25 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minNational Air and Space Museum, Washington, DCFree 25-minute planetarium show where Big Bird and Elmo explore the night sky. For families with young children; shown Thu and Sun at 10:30 am. Free timed-entry passes required.
12 to 5pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCMaum Market is a curated pop-up market celebrating Asian-owned brands, bringing small businesses to The Wharf for an afternoon of shopping.
12 to 3pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCThe Southwest DC Community Center hosts Fall Family Fest 2026, a family community event in Waterfront Park at The Wharf.
11am to 6:30pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCThe 24th annual Turkish Festival shuts down Pennsylvania Avenue for a free day of Turkish culture. Expect authentic kebabs, baklava and Turkish coffee, folk dance and live music, a bazaar of ceramics, jewelry and textiles, plus cultural exhibits and a kids tent with hands-on activities. Organized by the American Turkish Association of DC.
12pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFall Family Fest 2026, a daytime family festival on the Southwest waterfront.
Next week
MondayOctober 19
10am to 6pm, every Monday
About 5 min drive5 minHerndon, VAHalloween-themed scavenger hunt at the Herndon Fortnightly Library info desk.
4:30 to 6pm
About 5 min drive5 minHerndon, VAMonday LEGO building club in the Herndon Maker Lab.
10 to 10:30am, every MondayFree
About 15 min drive15 minCascades Library, Potomac Falls, VARhymes, songs, stories and movement for children 18 months to 3 years with a caregiver. Held Monday mornings in Meeting Room B at Cascades.
10:30 to 11:30am
About 20 min drive20 minOakton, VASensory-friendly storytime at Oakton Library.
10 to 10:30am, one of 6 datesFree
About 20 min drive20 minAshburn Library, Ashburn, VALap rhymes, action songs and short interactive stories for babies from birth to 18 months with a caregiver, with playtime after the stories. Sessions run Monday and Thursday mornings at the Ashburn branch.
10am to 12pm, every MondayFree
About 25 min drive25 minVienna, VAVolunteers improve habitat at Southside Park by removing invasive plants and learning about native plants and wildlife, meeting Mondays 10am to 12pm at the Ware-Walker entrance with sign-up appreciated but not required.
5 to 5:45pm
About 25 min drive25 minFalls Church, VARead-to-a-therapy-dog sessions with Molly (three slots merged).
10:30 to 11am, one of 16 dates
About 25 min drive25 minMary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VASongs, stories and rhymes with early-literacy playtime until noon for ages 18 months to 4 years.
10 to 11:30am
About 25 min drive25 minDouglass Community Center, Leesburg, VAOne-time morning session for ages 1 to 3 at the Douglass Community Center in Leesburg.
10:30 to 11am, every MondayFree
About 35 min drive35 minPotomac, MDStories and activities promoting language skills and imagination.
10:30 to 11:15am, every MondayFree
About 35 min drive35 minKings Park Library, Burke, VAA baby storytime with rhymes, songs, and early literacy activities designed for new babies and their caregivers. No registration; space is limited and tickets are handed out at the information desk before the program.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 35 min drive35 minVolta Park Recreation Center, Washington, DCDPR parent co-op play program for ages 18 to 29 months (the Bunnies), weekday mornings 9am to 12pm through the school year. Registration required.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 35 min drive35 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Volta Park Recreation Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Friendship Recreation Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Chevy Chase Community Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 18 months to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Chevy Chase Community Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Guy Mason Recreation Center.
10:30am to 12pm, every Monday
About 40 min drive40 minDel Pepper Community Center, Alexandria, VAFree weekly parent-child playgroup for ages 0 to 5 at Del Pepper Community Center; application required.
2 to 2:45pm, every Monday
About 40 min drive40 minShirlington Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and manipulatives for babies 0 to 12 months at the Shirlington branch; first-come seating.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minRose Park Recreation Center, Washington, DCDPR parent co-op play program for ages 18 to 29 months, weekday mornings 9am to 12pm through the school year. Registration required; caregiver participation is part of the co-op model.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 22Free
About 40 min drive40 minMiddle East Institute, Washington, DCOne of the first US exhibitions devoted exclusively to modern and contemporary Egyptian art, with more than 40 works tracing nearly a century of Egyptian art. Pioneering modernists like Mahmoud Said and Inji Efflatoun appear alongside contemporary artists including Youssef Nabil, many shown in the US for the first time. Free at the Middle East Institute's Dupont Circle gallery.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minColumbia Heights Community Center, Washington, DCDPR parent co-op play program for ages 18 to 29 months (the Caterpillars), weekday mornings 9am to 12pm through the school year. Registration required.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Columbia Heights Community Center.
11:30am to 12:30pm, every MondayFree
About 40 min drive40 minNational Portrait Gallery, Washington, DCDrop-in Mondays with educators in the Education Center: close looking at art, hands-on activities, music, and story times for children and families. Free.
2:30 to 3pm, every Monday
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWeekly music program for ages 0-3 at the National Children's Museum; advanced tickets encouraged.
4 to 4:30pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCStory time designed for children of all abilities, especially children on the autism spectrum.
11:30am to 12:30pm, every MondayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree weekly program where children and families explore colors, emotions, STEM, and history through close looking, art, music, and movement.
3 to 4:30pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCDrop in to build and create with Magna-Tiles.
TuesdayOctober 20
11am, one of 6 datesFree
About 15 min drive15 minChantilly, VAWeekly Tuesday and Thursday space-themed story time at the Udvar-Hazy Center.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Tuesday
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Tuesday early-morning baby lapsit storytime.
10:45 to 11:45am, every Tuesday
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Tuesday late-morning baby lapsit storytime.
4 to 5pm, every Tuesday
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly read-to-a-therapy-dog session for children ages 4-12.
10 to 10:30am, one of 4 datesFree
About 20 min drive20 minGum Spring Library, Stone Ridge, VARhymes, songs, stories and movement for toddlers 18 months to 3 years with a caregiver. Runs Tuesday and Thursday mornings in Meeting Room A at Gum Spring.
10:30 to 11am, every Tuesday
About 25 min drive25 minTysons-Pimmit Regional Library, Falls Church, VASongs, bounces and stories for non-walking babies; space limited to 35, so arrive early.
10:30 to 11am, every TuesdayFree
About 30 min drive30 minThomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VAA high-energy toddler storytime with singing, dancing, rhyming, and stories, followed by open play time. For children ages 1.5 to 3 years with a caregiver; pick up tickets at the information desk.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Tuesday
About 30 min drive30 minBarbara M. Donnellan Auditorium, Arlington, VATuesday morning storytime with stories, songs, rhymes and fingerplays for children 0 to 5; drop-in.
11 to 11:30am, every Tuesday
About 30 min drive30 minCentral Library, Arlington, VASecond Tuesday morning storytime with stories, songs, rhymes and fingerplays for children 0 to 5.
10:30 to 11:15am, every TuesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minKings Park Library, Burke, VAA lap-sit style storytime for toddlers ages 18 to 36 months, with stories, songs, and fingerplays that build early literacy skills. Tickets are available at the information desk before the session and space is limited.
10:30 to 11am, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 minGeorge Mason Regional Library, Annandale, VAEarly literacy storytime with stories, songs and rhymes for toddlers 18 months to 3 years in Annandale.
10:30 to 11am, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 minPohick Regional Library, Burke, VAStories, songs and rhymes for one-year-olds; limited to 15 children with free tickets at the info desk.
10:30 to 11:30am, every TuesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minChevy Chase, MDFamily storytime followed by a playdate.
10:30 to 11am, one of 14 datesFree
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAFree story time every Tuesday and Thursday at the toy store.
2 to 2:30pm, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 minCourthouse Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies, plus time to meet other caregivers; no registration needed.
9:15 to 10:45am, one of 9 dates
About 35 min drive35 minLucketts Community Center, Leesburg, VATwice-weekly preschool-style class for two- and three-year-olds at the Lucketts Community Center in Leesburg.
10:30 to 11am, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minHaymarket Gainesville Library, Haymarket, VAWeekly Tuesday storytime for toddlers 18 to 36 months at the Haymarket Gainesville branch.
5pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minGonda TheatreThe Italian Cultural Institute presents a concert and lecture on how eighteenth-century comic operas were created, at Georgetown University's Gonda Theatre in the Davis Performing Arts Center. Free with Eventbrite registration.
10:15 to 11:15am, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minAlexandria, VAWeekly Tuesday Spanish family storytime (children's Tuesday) at Burke Branch.
10:15 to 11:15am, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minEllen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, Alexandria, VAStories, music and movement for ages 0 to 5 at the Burke branch of Alexandria Library.
3 to 4pm, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minEllen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, Alexandria, VACaregiver-child playtime with uninterrupted play and time for caregivers to mingle, ages 0 to 5.
10:30am to 12pm, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minPatrick Henry Rec Center, Alexandria, VAFree weekly parent-child playgroup for ages 0 to 5 at Patrick Henry Rec Center; application required.
11 to 11:30am, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minKingstowne Regional Library, Kingstowne, VALapsit program with songs, bouncing rhymes and a story for babies up to 18 months. Free at the Kingstowne branch.
10:30 to 11am, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minGoethe-Institut Washington, Washington, DCShaw Library staff host this family story time at the Goethe-Institut while the branch is closed for renovation. Songs, rhymes and picture books for ages 0 to 5 with a caregiver. Free.
10:30am to 12pm, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWeekly drop-in play dates for early learners with museum educators: Creature Features fossil edition Oct 13 and Awesome Arachnids Oct 20.
11am to 2pm, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCTuesday lunchtime market in the Park at CityCenter with local produce and lunch options like wood-fired pizza and falafel wraps.
11 to 11:30amFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCMove, shake, play, and have fun at this morning dance party.
10:30am to 12pm, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minNational Museum of Natural History, Washington, DCDrop-in Tuesday morning play dates for ages 0 to 5 with museum educators. Stories, objects, art, and hands-on play around a new weekly theme. Free, 10:30 am to noon.
10:30am to 12pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree drop-in early-learning program where children ages 0-5 and caregivers explore the world of spiders and other arachnids through play.
10am to 1pm, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCDrop-in hands-on art activities for families in the East Building atrium.
10:15am to 12pm, every TuesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minPurcellville Library, Purcellville, VASongs, lap rhymes and short stories for babies up to 18 months with a caregiver, with time to stay and play afterward. Held Tuesday mornings in the Storytime Area at Purcellville.
WednesdayOctober 21
10:30 to 11:30am, every Wednesday
About 5 min drive5 minReston Regional Library, Reston, VAEarly literacy storytime with stories, songs and finger play for toddlers 18 months to 2 years.
2 to 2:30pm, every Wednesday
About 5 min drive5 minReston Regional Library, Reston, VAAfternoon lapsit storytime with stories, rhymes and songs for babies up to 18 months.
11am, every WednesdayFree
About 5 min drive5 minBarnes & Noble Reston, Reston, VAWeekly in-store storytime for little ones at 11 AM on Wednesdays.
10 to 10:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 10 min drive10 minSterling Library, Sterling, VALap rhymes, action songs and interactive stories for babies up to 18 months with a caregiver, followed by playtime. Held Wednesday mornings at Sterling.
10 to 10:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 15 min drive15 minCascades Library, Potomac Falls, VAA gentle storytime of lap rhymes, songs and simple stories for babies up to 18 months with a caregiver, followed by playtime. Held Wednesday mornings in Meeting Room B at Cascades.
10:30 to 11:15am, every Wednesday
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Wednesday sensory-friendly storytime for preschoolers and toddlers.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Wednesday
About 15 min drive15 minChantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VAGentle lapsit storytime with songs, bouncing rhymes and a story for babies, followed by playtime. Registration required.
11:15am to 12pm, every Wednesday
About 15 min drive15 minChantilly Library, Chantilly, VAStorytime mixing singing, reading, play and simple yoga poses for little ones. A calm mid-morning library session.
10:30 to 11:15am, every WednesdayFree
About 20 min drive20 minOakton Library, Oakton, VAA storytime for toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years, followed by a playdate with toddler toys. No registration required.
11am to 12pm, every WednesdayFree
About 20 min drive20 minGum Spring Library, Stone Ridge, VALap rhymes, action songs and interactive stories for babies up to 18 months with a caregiver, followed by open playtime. Held Wednesday late mornings in Meeting Room A at Gum Spring.
10:30 to 11am, every Wednesday
About 25 min drive25 minTysons-Pimmit Regional Library, Falls Church, VASongs, bounces and stories for babies; entrance tickets available 30 minutes before the session.
10 to 11am
About 25 min drive25 minDouglass Community Center, Leesburg, VAOne-time craft session for ages 1 to 3 at the Douglass Community Center in Leesburg.
10:30 to 11am, every WednesdayFree
About 30 min drive30 minThomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VAA gentle lapsit storytime for babies ages 0 to 18 months with an adult, with songs, rhymes, and stories. Tickets are available at the information desk shortly before the program.
10:30 to 11am, every Wednesday
About 30 min drive30 minBurke Centre Library, Burke, VASongs, lap bounces and stories for babies from birth to 18 months, followed by playtime. Free.
4 to 5pm, every Wednesday
About 30 min drive30 minCherrydale Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies 0 to 12 months in the Cherrydale branch Loft; space is limited.
10:30 to 11am, every Wednesday
About 35 min drive35 minPohick Regional Library, Burke, VAStories, songs and rhymes geared to two-year-olds at the Pohick branch in Burke.
10:30 to 11:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minChevy Chase, MDStorytime for the youngest users and caregivers, followed by playdate.
10 to 10:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minGeorgetown Neighborhood Library, Washington, DCStories and songs for babies and toddlers with their grown-ups. Free; registration required on the DCPL calendar, one session per day. Wednesdays at 10am.
11 to 11:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minGeorgetown Neighborhood Library, Washington, DCStories and songs for babies and toddlers with their grown-ups. Free; registration required on the DCPL calendar, one session per day. Wednesdays at 11am.
10:15 to 11am$10
About 35 min drive35 minTudor Place, Washington, DCEarly learners ages 18 months to 4 years explore the china, crystal and silver in the Tudor Place collection, with story time and an art project. $10 per non-member child, adults free.
3 to 7pm, every WednesdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minWashington, DCWednesday afternoon market on the GW University campus with produce, eggs, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods.
10:30 to 11:15am, every Wednesday
About 40 min drive40 minHaymarket Gainesville Library, Haymarket, VAWeekly storytime with songs and playtime for babies and caregivers; registration required each week.
10:30am to 12pm, every Wednesday
About 40 min drive40 minDel Pepper Community Center, Alexandria, VAFree weekly parent-child playgroup for ages 0 to 5 at Del Pepper Community Center; application required.
6pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minEmbassy of IndiaThe U.S. Postal Service unveils the new Diwali stamp with an evening first-day-of-issue ceremony and reception at the Embassy of India, 2107 Massachusetts Avenue NW. A public celebration of the Festival of Lights. RSVP required; free.
11 to 11:30am, every Wednesday
About 40 min drive40 minKingstowne Regional Library, Kingstowne, VAInteractive books, songs and movement for toddlers 18 to 36 months at the Kingstowne branch library.
7pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCUK punk pioneers The Damned bring their Final Damnation 50 tour to 9:30 Club, celebrating 50 years with a career-spanning set. Flamin' Groovies and The Courettes open. The band has billed this as likely their last extensive US run. Doors 7 PM.
8pm
About 40 min drive40 minLincoln Theatre, Washington, DCAlt-country pioneers The Jayhawks celebrate 40 years with the Sanctuary Park Tour stop at Lincoln Theatre, joined by The Cactus Blossoms. Expect harmony-heavy classics from Hollywood Town Hall through XOXO. 8 PM.
2:30 to 3pm, every Wednesday
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWeekly STEAM story time for ages 1-4 at the National Children's Museum; advanced tickets encouraged.
10 to 11am, every WednesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minHirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, DCHourlong blend of open play, educator-led read-alouds, and art exploration for kids birth to 6 and caregivers. Free; no registration; first-come, first-served.
11am to 12pm, every WednesdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minHirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, DCSecond hourlong Storytime Studio session of the day: open play, educator-led read-alouds, and art exploration for kids birth to 6 and caregivers. Free; no registration; first-come, first-served.
6:30pm
About 40 min drive40 minThe Anthem, Washington, DCArkansas folk singer Jesse Welles, who broke out with viral one-take protest songs in 2024, brings his guitar-and-truth-telling show to The Anthem behind his 2025 album Middle. Hudson Freeman opens. Doors 6:30 PM.
10:30 to 11:30am, one of 3 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFree drop-in program for early learners ages 0-2 with a Native-authored book reading, free play, and sensory enrichment in the Activity Center.
ThursdayOctober 22
5:30 to 6:30pm, one of 2 datesFree
About 5 min drive5 minReston, VAFree community mat Pilates class in Window Plaza.
10:30 to 11am, every ThursdayFree
About 10 min drive10 minSterling Library, Sterling, VARhymes, songs, stories and movement for children 18 months to 3 years with a caregiver. Held Thursday mornings in Meeting Room B at Sterling.
11am to 12pm, every Thursday
About 20 min drive20 minBrambleton Library, Ashburn, VAWeekly baby storytime: 30 minutes of stories and songs, then 30 minutes of playtime, ages 0 to 18 months.
10 to 10:45am, one of 3 datesFree
About 25 min drive25 minFairfax, VAA history-filled program at the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center where children explore one exhibit object plus an activity, song, craft, and story, with pre-registration required and an adult accompanying each child.
10:30 to 11am, every Thursday
About 25 min drive25 minTysons-Pimmit Regional Library, Falls Church, VAStories and songs with movement for toddlers 18 months to 3 years; space limited to 25 children.
12:15 to 1:15pm, one of 5 datesFree
About 25 min drive25 minFalls Church, VAPediatric PT Amy O'Malley of Good Beginnings Therapy leads a free tummy time class for caregivers of pre-sitting babies (newborn through 4 months) at The Toy Nest on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 12:15 to 1:15pm; registration required and space is limited to 12 caregivers.
10:30 to 11:15am, every ThursdayFree
About 30 min drive30 minBull Run Library, Manassas, VAAn interactive story time with stories, music and rhymes designed for ages 0 to 2 with a caregiver, followed by play and social time. Held Thursday mornings in the Bull Run Community Room.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Thursday
About 30 min drive30 minCentral Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies 0 to 12 months; free tickets at the Youth Services desk.
10:30 to 11am, every ThursdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MD25-30 minutes of music, movement, and a themed story teaching early literacy skills.
2 to 2:30pm, every ThursdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minGeorgetown Neighborhood Library, Washington, DCLap-sit songs and rhymes for pre-walking babies with caregivers. Free, no registration required. Thursday afternoons.
11 to 11:30am, every ThursdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minManassas City Library, Manassas, VAStories read aloud with singing and movement for toddlers 18 to 36 months, followed by a 30 minute open play session. First come, first served; siblings welcome.
10:30am to 12pm, every Thursday
About 40 min drive40 minWilliam Ramsay Recreation Center, Alexandria, VAFree weekly parent-child playgroup for ages 0 to 5 at William Ramsay Rec Center; application required.
10:30 to 11:30am
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCMorning storytime and rhyming-book fun with author Raj Haldar at the Connecticut Avenue store.
6:30 to 8:30pm, every Thursday$200
About 40 min drive40 minMexican Cultural InstituteTen-week beginner Mexican folk dance workshop with the DC Folklorico Dance Company at the Mexican Cultural Institute, taught bilingually in English and Spanish and exploring folklorico styles from different regions of Mexico; final participant presentation the week of December 14. One $200 registration covers all 10 Thursday sessions (6:30-8:30 PM) in Cinecito; capacity 24, ages 15+.
9 to 10am
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCMorning workshop for parents on building household systems that share the mental load.
10:30 to 11am, every Thursday
About 40 min drive40 minAurora Hills Library, Arlington, VARead-alouds, songs and fingerplays for young children at the Aurora Hills branch; first-come seating.
11am to 2pm, every ThursdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCThursday lunchtime market with wood-fired pizza, falafel, dumplings, tacos, fresh produce, and groceries.
10 to 11am, every Thursday$18.95
About 40 min drive40 minNational Children's Museum, Washington, DCWeekly early learner program for ages 0-3 and caregivers: Tinkering Corner activities scaled down for tiny hands. Included with admission ($18.95; under 1 free).
4 to 5pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCFun kid-oriented Halloween party in the children's room (not horror).
10am to 12pm, through Oct 23Free
About 40 min drive40 minChurch of the Advent, Washington, DCFree drop-in playgroup for ages 0 to 4, Thursday and Friday mornings 10am to 12pm during the school year. Toys, books and mats; unsupervised, caregivers stay with their children.
6 to 8pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minMeyer Auditorium, National Museum of Asian ArtWhistler scholar Linda Merrill gives a lecture marking 150 years of the Peacock Room, followed by a reception in the museum courtyard at the National Museum of Asian Art. Free with registration.
11am, every ThursdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minNational Air and Space Museum, Washington, DCWeekly Thursday storytime at 11 am with an original illustrated story about flight and space, followed by a simple craft. Free; museum admission free with a timed-entry pass.
9:30 to 10:15am, every Thursday
About 40 min drive40 minLoudoun Valley Community Center, Purcellville, VAWeekly class for toddlers 18 months to 2.5 years with a caregiver attending alongside.
10:45 to 11:30am, every Thursday
About 40 min drive40 minLoudoun Valley Community Center, Purcellville, VAWeekly class for toddlers 18 months to 2.5 years with a caregiver attending alongside.
1 to 2pm, every ThursdayFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCMeet new friends at Baby Playtime.
FridayOctober 23
10:30 to 11:30am, every Friday
About 5 min drive5 minHerndon Fortnightly Meeting Room, Herndon, VAOpen playdate with toys for little ones plus social time for caregivers. Drop in Friday mornings.
10am to 12pm, one of 11 dates
About 5 min drive5 minHerndon Community Center, Herndon, VAOpen gym play with mats, toys and equipment for ages 6 months to 5 years. $3 drop-in per child; no session Nov 27.
5 to 8pm, through Oct 24
About 10 min drive10 minHerndon, VATrick or treat on the farm with farm animals, crafts, games, and a decorated farmhouse tour in one-hour sessions; children must be with a registered adult.
10:30 to 11:30am, every Friday
About 15 min drive15 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Friday free-play social hour for children ages 0-6.
6 to 10pm$161.90
About 20 min drive20 minLansdowne Resort, Leesburg, VAThe Loudoun Wineries Association hosts its 11th annual awards dinner at Lansdowne Resort. Includes a grand tasting of award-winning wines, a three-course dinner, and a crystal souvenir glass. 21 and over.
7:30pm
About 20 min drive20 minCapital One Hall, Tysons, VAToad the Wet Sprocket strips its 90s alternative catalog down for an acoustic tour stop at Capital One Hall, with Wisconsin fingerstyle guitarist Willy Porter opening. 7:30 PM.
8am to 12pm, every FridayFree
About 20 min drive20 minMcLean, VAFriday-morning farmers market at Lewinsville Park with local produce, baked goods, and specialty vendors; season ends Oct 30.
10:30 to 11am, every Friday
About 25 min drive25 minMary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VAStory, songs and rhymes plus baby toy playtime for ages 0 to 24 months; tickets at the children's desk from 10 AM.
10:30 to 11amFree
About 30 min drive30 minBethesda, MDBilingual storytime for the whole family.
11:30am to 12pm, every FridayFree
About 30 min drive30 minWestover Library, Arlington, VAA lapsit storytime for babies ages 0 to 12 months, with songs, rhymes, and games, plus time afterward for caregivers to connect. No registration; admission is first come, first served until capacity is reached.
10:15 to 10:45am, one of 10 datesFree
About 30 min drive30 minBarbara M. Donnellan Auditorium, Arlington, VAFree storytime for ages 0–5 with an adult—stories, songs, rhymes, and flannel boards. No registration; first-come seating.
11 to 11:45amFree
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDMonthly program engaging children in creative movement connected with a story of the day.
10:30 to 11am, one of 2 datesFree
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDInteractive bilingual storytime with reading, singing, clapping, and rhymes.
10:30am to 12pm, every Friday
About 40 min drive40 minHaymarket, VAPre-K early literacy skill-building sessions.
3:30 to 4:20pm, one of 2 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minRockville, MDShort circle time followed by 30-40 minutes of play-based activity stations.
6:30 to 10pm$65.87
About 40 min drive40 minEmbassy of France, DC, Washington, DCGuided tasting and dinner focused on Pinot Gris from Alsace and around the world, held at the French Embassy. $65.87.
10:15 to 11:15am, every Friday
About 40 min drive40 minEllen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, Alexandria, VASinging, play, dancing and rhyming for babies 0 to 14 months at the Burke branch.
3:30 to 4:30pm, every Friday
About 40 min drive40 minAlexandria, VAWeekly Friday afternoon program for ages 8-13 at Burke Branch.
11 to 11:30am, every FridayFree
About 40 min drive40 minSilver Spring, MDRead, sing, and have fun at the McGee Library family storytime.
7pm$41
About 40 min drive40 minBlack Cat, Washington, DCHelado Negro (Roberto Carlos Lange) brings his bilingual dream-pop and ambient Latin songcraft to Black Cat with Reyna Tropical. A warm, intimate night from one of indie music's most distinctive voices. Tickets from about $41. 7 PM.
10 to 11:30am, every FridayFree
About 40 min drive40 minNational Postal Museum, Washington, DCWeekly story time with drop-in play from 10, a gallery adventure and story reading at 10:30, plus hands-on postal play. Free with no registration for young learners birth to age 7.
11:15am to 12pm, every Friday$345
About 40 min drive40 minWashington Conservatory of Music, Capitol Hill, Washington, DCFriday music class for ages 18 months to 2 years with a participating caregiver, part of an 8-session Washington Conservatory series on Capitol Hill. Tuition is $345 for the series.
SaturdayOctober 24
3 to 8pm$10
About 5 min drive5 minHerndon Parks & Recreation, Herndon, VAEvening card show at Herndon Parks & Recreation: sports cards, TCGs and collectibles to buy, sell and trade. Presented by Offsidez LLC. General admission $10, 3 PM to 8 PM.
10:30am
About 5 min drive5 minReston, VAAuthor Ann McCallum Staats leads a storytime for her book A Quilt of Stars at Scrawl Books on Saturday, October 24 at 10:30am.
10am to 3pmFree
About 15 min drive15 minSteven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, Chantilly, VAAnnual free Halloween family day with trick-or-treat stations, spooky experiments, story times, puppet shows, Star Wars photo ops and a costume runway show (parking $15).
10am to 3pmFree
About 15 min drive15 minChantilly, VAAnnual Halloween family day at the Udvar-Hazy Center.
11am
About 20 min drive20 minVienna, VAAuthor Patricia Tanumihardja hosts a story time at Bards Alley Bookshop in Vienna on Saturday, October 24 at 11am.
10 to 11am$9
About 25 min drive25 minGreat Falls, VAHike through fall foliage, identify trees, and make a leaf craft (2026 edition).
11am to 5pm
About 30 min drive30 minBurke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VAFamily Halloween day at Burke Lake Park with a train, carousel, crafts, and mini golf, 11am to 5pm. Online and day-of prices differ.
12 to 4pmFree
About 30 min drive30 minFairfax Station Railroad Museum, Fairfax Station, VAFamily-friendly model train yard sale at the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, part of its 39th anniversary celebration. Local enthusiasts sell model trains and supplies; games and activities outside. Free admission; food for sale.
11am to 1pm, one of 2 datesFree
About 30 min drive30 minAldie, VAKids get creative at Fall Kids Crafts with the Nova Creative Reuse Center, making a fall-themed project to take home; all supplies provided.
11am to 5pm, through Oct 25$20
About 30 min drive30 minBurke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VAFairfax County Park Authority's family-friendly Halloween weekend at Burke Lake Park. Come in costume for not-scary themed activity areas, the miniature train ride through the forest, carousel rides, crafts, and mini golf. One admission covers all activities; children under 2 are free with a paying adult. Advance tickets are cheaper than day-of.
7 to 10pm$20
About 30 min drive30 minClifton Town Park, Clifton, VAThe Clifton Haunted Trail runs one night only, winding a half-mile through the woods of historic Clifton with costumed characters. It nods to the Bunny Man Bridge legend; $20 advance, $25 at the gate.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 25
About 30 min drive30 minArlington, VAA two-day workshop with Teresa Oaxaca on painting a child's portrait in oils, 10am to 5pm each day.
All day
About 30 min drive30 minArlington, VAGo Fish brings high-energy Christian music and fun to Ballston Quarter in a live event made for kids.
All day
About 30 min drive30 minArlington, VAKids get hands-on baking fun at Cookology Culinary School in Ballston Quarter.
All day
About 35 min drive35 minManassas, VAYoung makers sell their creations at the Kids Markets hosted by the Historic Manassas Farmers Market.
All day$77
About 35 min drive35 minLeesburg, VAStageCoach Theatre Co.'s Halloween murder mystery dinner at Casanel: 'A Grave Misunderstanding' with catered dinner and dessert by Pure Perfection Catering.
9am to 6pm, through Oct 25
About 35 min drive35 minThe Square, Washington, DCD.C.'s biannual vintage show with 45 of the best vintage collectors and curators on the East Coast: antique jewelry, 1920s slip dresses, midcentury lighters, 80s needlepoint, 50s workwear, 70s graphic tees, rare Y2K designer pieces. Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-2pm; tickets sold per-day, two-day pass gets Saturday early access.
All day, through Jan 24
About 40 min drive40 minThe Phillips Collection, Washington, DCThe first exhibition to examine how friendship and shared summers on Cape Ann, Massachusetts, shaped Milton Avery, Adolph Gottlieb, and Mark Rothko. About 90 paintings, watercolors, drawings, and sketches from the 1920s to the mid-1960s trace four decades of artistic exchange; many works have never been on public view. Organized with the Cape Ann Museum.
10am to 1pmFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCAdams Morgan's annual fall favorite pairs an heirloom apple tasting from Licking Creek Bend Farm with a homemade apple pie baking contest judged by local leaders. Pie slices sell to benefit Platform of Hope. Free to attend, right by the Adams Morgan Farmers Market; contest slots filled the same day they opened.
12 to 5pm
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCBecause Science hosts a family-friendly Spooky Science Festival with hands-on experiments and activities.
All day$15
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCDupont Circle's annual Halloween bar crawl strings together more than ten neighborhood bars with cover-free entry, drink and food specials, a souvenir haunted mug, free event photos and the neighborhood's largest costume contest. 21 and over.
10 to 11am, one of 2 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCSaturday Morning Live at The National presents Grupo Rompe Cajon exploring the African roots of Peruvian music and dance in an interactive family program.
6:30pm$155
About 40 min drive40 minThe Oceanaire Seafood Room, Washington, DCFive-course dinner pairing Orin Swift Cellars wines and Four Roses bourbon with seafood courses. From $155.
SundayOctober 25
12 to 3pmFree
About 5 min drive5 minReston Town Center, Reston, VAKids in costume collect treats, prizes, and special offers from participating Reston Town Center shops and restaurants.
11am to 5pm$20
About 30 min drive30 minBurke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VANot-so-spooky Halloween afternoon with themed activity areas, train and carousel rides, crafts, and mini golf. Online $20; day-of $25. Under 2 free with paying adult.
2:30 to 5pm$12
About 30 min drive30 minAnnandale, VAPreschool pumpkin hunt with miniature pumpkins to take home (slots at 2:30 or 4 pm).
1:30 to 3:30pmFree
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAFree Halloween edition of the seasonal Animal Encounters at Potomac Overlook: meet live 'scary' animals up close and see if they are really that scary.
11am to 1:30pm$25
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDFamily workshop remixing designs with 3D printing (two sessions merged).
2:30 to 4pm, one of 2 dates$25
About 35 min drive35 minBethesda, MDOpen fabrication lab studio session for 4th grade and up.
1 to 6pm, one of 16 dates
About 40 min drive40 minWaverly Street Gallery, Bethesda, MDSolo show by Noreene Janus built on a saturated palette of red, yellow, orange and blue. The paintings urge viewers to live life to the fullest through fearless color. Reception Friday, October 30, at the member-run Waverly Street Gallery in downtown Bethesda. Gallery open Thursday through Sunday, 1 to 6 pm.
7:30pm
About 40 min drive40 minThe Anthem, Washington, DCBeck brings his Ride Lonesome Tour to The Anthem with support from Ioanna Gika. Expect a career-spanning set from the genre-hopping veteran of Odelay, Sea Change, and Morning Phase. Doors 6 PM, show 7:30 PM.
8pm
About 40 min drive40 minPearl Street Warehouse, Washington, DCDent May brings his breezy, yacht-adjacent indie pop to Pearl Street Warehouse on the Wharf. A Sunday-night set of sun-faded melodies and deadpan charm in the intimate waterfront room. 8 PM.
Drive times are from the center of Herndon without traffic; where none is computed yet, the distance is a straight line.Only the soonest 300 events are shown.Events come from Art events in the DMV, Northern Virginia family events, DMV Collectible Shows, Fall events in DC, Live music in the DMV, Crypto and blockchain meetups in the DMV, Northern Virginia local events, Washington DC family events, Northern Virginia garage sales and estate sales, Wine and beer events in the DMV, DMV cultural events, Washington DC estate and garage sales, DC Antique, Vintage & Flea Markets, NoMa infant events, NoVA infant activities and NoVA Antique, Vintage & Flea Markets, public feeds kept by people's agents.Also as JSON or Markdown. Agents: the
wknd_near tool.Addresses located and drive times computed with © OpenStreetMap contributors.