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TodayFriday, October 16
7:30 to 11pm, through Oct 17$25
About 10 min drive10 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 Dec 31Free
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VAFree community-led morning Tai Chi at Hunters Woods Plaza, a daily drop-in session open to all.
All day, through Jan 31Free
About 20 min drive20 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 Nov 8
About 25 min drive25 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.
All day, through Oct 18
About 25 min drive25 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 7
About 35 min drive35 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 35 min drive35 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 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.
All day, through Jan 24
About 40 min drive40 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 40 min drive40 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.
13 more, 45 min or fartherAlexandria, Bluemont, Brentwood
All day, through Oct 17
About 45 min drive45 minGreat Country Farms, Bluemont, VAAdults-only (21+) corn maze nights at Great Country Farms with Henway Hard cider, a bonfire, and live music.
All day, through Dec 31Free
About 45 min drive45 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 16Free
About 45 min drive45 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.
10pm
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 18$35
About 50 min drive50 minSmithsonian National Zoo, Washington, DCEvening Halloween trick-or-treating and after-hours animal viewing at the National Zoo. Costumes welcome; tickets typically around $35.
All day, through Oct 31Free
About 50 min drive50 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.
All day, through Oct 17$40
About 50 min drive50 minCongressional Cemetery, Washington, DCCongressional Cemetery's annual lantern-lit twilight tours return with the 2026 theme Becoming America, marking the nation's 250th anniversary. Costumed interpreters bring the cemetery's residents to life in immersive performances as you walk the grounds after dark. Food truck, live music and drinks on the grounds; costumes encouraged. Rain or shine; times vary by tour date.
All day, through Oct 17$61
About 50 min drive50 minDock 5 at Union Market, Washington, DCMulti-session wine tasting at Dock 5 at Union Market with wineries pouring samples; early admission available. 21 and over. Session times not listed on the organizer site.
All day, through Oct 31
About 55 min drive55 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.
All day, through Oct 31
About 55 min drive55 minBrentwood Arts Exchange, Brentwood, MDSolo exhibition by Wayson R. Jones of paintings built from pumice gel and Flashe on wood panel. Color-driven abstract work by the DC-area artist, on view at the Brentwood Arts Exchange in the Gateway Arts District through October 31.
All day, through Oct 18
About 60 min drive60 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 18$50
About 80 min drive80 minMarkoff's Haunted Forest at Calleva Farm, Dickerson, MDA mile-long haunted trail plus a haunted town on Calleva Farm, with a bonfire midway and DJ. Try the low-scare Lights On Night on Oct 28; proceeds fund outdoor education.
TomorrowSaturday, October 17
10am to 6pm, through Nov 8
About 10 min drive10 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.
9am to 4pm
About 10 min drive10 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.
11am to 9pm, through Oct 18
About 15 min drive15 minHerndon, VAWeekend fall harvest celebration at Frying Pan Farm Park with hands-on farm activities, demonstrations, livestock, rides, and a carnival.
11am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 15 min drive15 minHerndon, VAFarm harvest festival and carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park.
10am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 15 min drive15 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.
All day, every SaturdayFree
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VAWalk in for coffee, a breakfast bite, and fellowship Saturday mornings at RCC Hunters Woods; all are welcome.
9:30am, one of 2 dates
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VACommunity dog walk meetup at Reston Town Center.
10am to 5pmFree
About 20 min drive20 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.
11 to 11:30am
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VAPop-up storytime in the children's department.
11am, every SaturdayFree
About 20 min drive20 minBarnes & Noble Reston, Reston, VAWeekly in-store storytime for little ones at 11 AM on Saturdays.
8am to 12pm, every SaturdayFree
About 25 min drive25 minReston, VAWeekly Saturday farmers market at Lake Anne Village Center with local produce, vendors, and occasional live music.
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.
7 to 10:30pm, through Oct 17$25
About 30 min drive30 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.
11am to 7pm, through Oct 18
About 30 min drive30 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.
All dayFree
About 30 min drive30 minGreat Falls, VASpecial 250 Celebration in Great Falls village with Hello Cleveland and Radio Vinyl on the big stage behind the Post Office.
8am to 12pm, every SaturdayFree
About 30 min drive30 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 30 min drive30 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.
6 to 9pm$192.60
About 30 min drive30 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 30 min drive30 minShipgarten, McLean, VAOktoberfest with a Renaissance theme at Shipgarten's beer garden: German beers, food, live entertainment, and themed activities. Free entry.
10:30 to 11am, every Saturday
About 30 min drive30 minFalls Church, VAWeekly Saturday family storytime for children birth to 5.
1 to 2pm
About 30 min drive30 minFalls Church, VAKids brain-health and wellness workshop at Tysons-Pimmit Library.
10am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 12 mi away12 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.
11:30am to 4pm, through Oct 17
About 13 mi away13 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 5pm, through Oct 18Free
About 35 min drive35 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.
10am to 1:30pm, every SaturdayFree
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAYear-round Saturday farmers market with local produce, meats, baked goods, and plants in the heart of Great Falls village.
11am to 12pm
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAFamily-friendly string quartet performance at Great Falls Library.
3:30 to 5pm
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAQuiet teen study session with free supplies and snacks.
2 to 10:15pm, through Oct 18$18
About 35 min drive35 minMcLean, VAA laugh-out-loud musical comedy about Wednesday Addams falling for a perfectly normal young man.
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.
8am and 9am, every SaturdayFree
About 35 min drive35 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 35 min drive35 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.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 18
About 15 mi away15 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.
10 to 11am, through Oct 18$10
About 40 min drive40 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 40 min drive40 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.
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.
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.
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.
3pm, through Oct 18$13
About 40 min drive40 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 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCGeorgetown Cupcake is serving Halloween-themed cupcakes daily through October 31 for spooky season.
11am to 4:30pm, through Oct 18Free
About 40 min drive40 minWashington, DCWeekend hands-on art-making at the REACH celebrating creativity and the artist in everyone.
10am to 3pm, through Oct 18
About 17 mi away17 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.
81 more, 45 min or fartherAlexandria, Berryville, Bethesda
9am to 5pm, through Oct 31
About 45 min drive45 minGreat Country Farms, Bluemont, VAFall festival at Great Country Farms with pick-your-own pumpkins, the corn maze, the Oinkintucky Derby pig races, cider pressing demos, pumpkin cannons, and cider donuts.
9 to 11am, every Saturday
About 45 min drive45 minLorton Community Center, Lorton, VASaturday morning open gym play for families with toddlers; registered center members only.
10am to 2pm, through Oct 18$16
About 45 min drive45 minBethesda, MDChicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical is a joy-filled celebration of letters, words, and imagination with puppets, lively dancing, and audience interaction.
12 to 5pmFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
1 to 1:45pm, through Oct 18Free
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCFree 15-minute Spotlight Talks by a Phillips educator on a work from the permanent collection or a special exhibition; no reservations required.
12 to 3pm, every Saturday
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCOutdoor fall concert series in Dupont Circle park.
11am to 1pm, every Saturday
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCHands-on science playtime at Because Science designed for children ages 2 to 5.
3 to 6pm
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCOpen family afternoon at the J with activities for all ages.
10pm
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCFree costumed demonstration meeting an 1890s cyclist to learn how the safety bicycle brought women greater mobility and independence.
2 to 3pmFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
11 to 11:30am, every SaturdayFree
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCThemed Saturday sketching tour of portraits with educator-led artmaking in the Education Center afterward.
11:30am and 1pm, through Oct 18Free
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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.
10am to 2pm, every SaturdayFree
About 45 min drive45 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 5:30pm, through Dec 24Free
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCGuided tours of the National Gallery Sculpture Garden.
2:30 to 4:30pm, every SaturdayFree
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCFree drop-in art-making for teens ages 13-19 painting portraits in pairs inspired by Aliza Nisenbaum.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCSaturday morning neighborhood market next to Milian Park with produce, orchard fruit, grass-fed meats, baked goods, coffee, and prepared foods.
10am and 10:30am, one of 5 datesFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
10am to 5pmFree
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCLibrary outreach at the National Building Museum's Big Build festival.
10am to 2pm
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCFeatured building festival at the National Building Museum.
11:15am to 12:15pm, every SaturdayFree
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCWizard-school themed scavenger hunt at the National Gallery of Art.
8am to 1pm
About 18 mi away18 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.
2pm$110
About 50 min drive50 minBarrel Oak Winery & Brewery, Delaplane, VAIntimate guided tasting at Barrel Oak Winery exploring the distinctive wines of Northern Italy. Led by the estate sommelier and a representative from wine importer Massanois, featuring small-production wines rarely found on retail shelves, with first access to purchase the featured bottles.
11am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 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.
11am to 4pm$45
About 50 min drive50 minBear Chase Brewing Company, Bluemont, VABear Chase Brewing Company hosts its sixth annual beer festival with tastings from local craft breweries in one place. Ticket includes a souvenir tasting glass and 10 tasting tickets for pours of fall and seasonal beers, plus live music. 21 and over; the brewery stays open for regular business during the event.
1 to 6pm, through Oct 18
About 50 min drive50 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.
10am to 4pm
About 50 min drive50 minWoodbridge, VAAll-day family Renaissance Faire at Potomac Library.
12:30 to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCFree Saturday carillon recital on the Cathedral grounds.
6 to 8pmFree
About 50 min drive50 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.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCBustling Saturday neighborhood market with local produce, meats, prepared foods, and on-site compost collection.
9:30am to 1:30pm, one of 37 datesFree
About 50 min drive50 minSmithsonian's National Zoo, Washington, DCFree drop-in nature play at the Bird House Classroom: sand, seeds, and water play with rotating nature themes for kids 0-8 and caregivers.
6 to 8:30pm, through Oct 18$35
About 50 min drive50 minSmithsonian's National Zoo, Washington, DCThe National Zoo's beloved family Halloween celebration opens the zoo after hours for three evenings of trick-or-treating at more than 25 treat stations. Costumed kids get a souvenir goodie bag, a kids dance party, a pumpkin patch photo op, and after-hours access to the Small Mammal House, Elephant Community Center and Reptile Discovery Center. Usually sells out.
12 to 4pm, through Oct 18$400
About 50 min drive50 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.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCSaturday market on the Columbia Heights Civic Plaza with a diverse vendor roster selling produce, baked goods, cheese, dairy, and authentic Mexican food.
10am to 12pm$6
About 50 min drive50 minAlexandria, VADress-up dance party for ages 1–5 with kiddie tunes, lunch, and activities; child must attend with a parent/guardian. $6.
8am to 1pm
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCJoin the Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction at The Wharf to raise awareness and support for people and families impacted by addiction.
9am to 1pm, every Saturday
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCA weekly Saturday farmers market near Nationals Park with 30-plus local produce and food vendors, running May through December.
10:30am to 3:30pmFree
About 50 min drive50 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.
11am to 1pm, one of 4 dates
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCA guided walking tour of the murals and public art across the Union Market District.
9am, every Saturday
About 50 min drive50 minBreathing Space Studio, Washington, DCSaturday morning yoga and play for crawlers up to 24 months with a caregiver at the Breathing Space studio on Capitol Hill. October dates from the Breathing Space calendar; registration required.
10:30 to 11am, through Oct 18
About 50 min drive50 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.
9am to 4pm, through Oct 18Free
About 50 min drive50 minEastern Market, Washington, DCOver 40 years on Capitol Hill: the Flea Market at Eastern Market runs every Saturday and Sunday year-round, 9am-4pm. Antiques, vintage, locally-made arts and crafts, and ethically imported goods. Free admission.
9:30 to 10am, every Saturday
About 50 min drive50 minHill Center DC, Washington, DCSaturday baby ballet for ages 2.5 to 3.5 years at Hill Center on Capitol Hill. A gentle first ballet class, 30 minutes with a caregiver nearby.
10:10 to 10:50am, one of 3 dates
About 50 min drive50 minHill Center DC, Washington, DCA caregiver-and-me dance class for children ages 18 months to 3 years at Hill Center on Capitol Hill. Short 40-minute sessions built for first dancers.
9am to 12:30pm, every SaturdayFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCYear-round Saturday market on 13th Street NE between H and I Streets with produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, coffee, flowers, and community seating.
All day
About 50 min drive50 minNational Harbor, MDThe PFF Walk at National Harbor raises funds and awareness for the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation along Spirit Park and the Harbor Trail.
9am to 4pm$5
About 55 min drive55 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.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSaturday market in the family-centric Uptown neighborhood connecting local producers of fruits, vegetables, meats, and breads.
3 to 4pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minPetworth Neighborhood Library, Washington, DCMusical play time with drums and rhythm instruments for babies and toddlers. Free; registration required on the DCPL calendar. Saturdays; the Nov 7 session runs 11am to noon.
10:30 to 11:30amFree
About 55 min drive55 minRockville, MDSaturday family storytime followed by stay and play.
3 to 6pm
About 55 min drive55 minCreeMos Gallery, Takoma, MDOne-evening event at CreeMos Gallery in Takoma Park pairing The Next Chapter: Art from Vietnam, an exhibition of Vietnamese art and culture, with a meditative sound bath and a Vietnamese dinner. Saturday, October 17, 3 to 6 pm. Ages 18 and up.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSaturday market in Brookland's Arts Walk Plaza near the CUA metro stop with local farmers, specialty food producers, and nearby artist studios.
8am to 2pmFree
About 55 min drive55 minMt. Vernon Masonic Lodge #219, Alexandria, VAThird-Saturday community market hosted by Mt. Vernon Lodge #219, inside and outside the lodge. Up to 45 vendors: antiques, vintage, collectibles, coins, stamps, glassware, clothes, and handmade goods. A Sotheby's-trained appraiser offers $15 verbal appraisals. Free browsing; proceeds fund college scholarships.
10am to 3pmFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSixth annual free family day on Kingman and Heritage Islands celebrating the Anacostia River with boat tours, crafts, a scavenger hunt, and an all-ages clothing swap.
10am to 2pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSaturday farm stand at the Anacostia Community Museum bringing fresh local produce to Ward 8 in partnership with the Smithsonian.
10am to 2pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCFree-to-attend Saturday farm stand on the Anacostia Community Museum's outdoor plaza with local produce sold direct to consumers.
10am to 2pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSaturday farm stand at THEARC offering fresh local produce from Mid-Atlantic farmers, also a Market Share pickup site.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCSaturday farm stand outside Cesar Chavez High School in the Parkside neighborhood with fresh local produce.
10:30am to 12:30pmFree
About 60 min drive60 minWashington, DCPlay, reading, and resources for families of kids with disabilities.
10:30 to 11am, every SaturdayFree
About 60 min drive60 minHyattsville, MDStories, songs, and fingerplays for preschoolers.
9am to 1pm, every SaturdayFree
About 60 min drive60 minWashington, DCSaturday farm stand at Kenilworth Recreation Center with fresh local produce.
10am to 6pm, through Oct 18
About 60 min drive60 minPyramid Atlantic Art Center, Hyattsville, MDExhibition by the Outlaw Printmakers collective, opening during Print-O-Rama weekend (reception Friday, October 16, 7 to 9 pm). Print work on view in Pyramid Atlantic's Helen C. Frederick Gallery in Hyattsville. Gallery open Wednesdays and Thursdays 10 to 8, Fridays through Sundays 10 to 6.
12 to 5pm, through Oct 18
About 60 min drive60 minPyramid Atlantic Art Center, Hyattsville, MDFour-day printmaking festival at Pyramid Atlantic in Hyattsville: screenprinting and woodcut demos, the Outlaw Printmakers MMXXVI exhibition opening with live rock and roll, a free Saturday print fair with 15 printmakers, and hands-on printmaking demos. Thursday evening workshops are ticketed; the Friday reception and Saturday fair are free.
10:30 to 11amFree
About 60 min drive60 minBladensburg, MDPreschool storytime with stories, songs, and fingerplays.
10am to 2pm, through Oct 18
About 23 mi away23 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.
9am to 6pm, through Oct 18$12
About 65 min drive65 minButler's Orchard, Germantown, MDButler's Orchard's 46th Pumpkin Festival brings hayrides, giant slides, a corn maze, barnyard animals, a pumpkin cannon and pick-your-own pumpkins. Book ahead: weekend dates sell out.
10:30am to 2pmFree
About 65 min drive65 minRiversdale Historic Site & Museum, Riverdale Park, MDA free community fall day at the Riversdale Historic Site and Museum with seed-saving lessons from the site gardener, story time, and a family scavenger hunt with small prizes. Registration requested through the county parks site.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 18$20
About 65 min drive65 minClarke County Ruritan Fairgrounds, Berryville, VA28th annual fall market at the Clarke County Fairgrounds: 200+ vintage vendors and ~10,000 visitors. Early-buyer Friday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM (advance pass); general admission Friday 12:30-5 PM, Saturday and Sunday 10 AM-5 PM. Kids 12 and under free; no pets; rain or shine.
10:30 to 11:30am, every SaturdayFree
About 65 min drive65 minLandover, MDFree outdoor family Zumba class with easy-to-follow dance moves to upbeat music, open to ages 6 and up at Columbia Park Community Center.
11 to 11:30am, every SaturdayFree
About 65 min drive65 minNew Carrollton, MDStories, songs, and fingerplays for preschoolers.
2 to 6pm
About 70 min drive70 minWhalen Commons, Poolesville, MDPoolesville's annual fall festival at Whalen Commons with live music, local breweries, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment on the town's central green. Community event hosted by the Town of Poolesville.
10am to 6pm, through Nov 1$14.50
About 75 min drive75 minGaver Farm, Mt. Airy, MDGaver Farm's Fall Fun Fest packs 60-plus attractions into the season: a 7-acre corn maze, pumpkin and apple picking, gem mining, hayrides and a petting zoo. Walk-ups welcome.
SundayOctober 18
11am to 6pm, one of 2 dates$10
About 15 min drive15 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 15 min drive15 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.
8am to 12pm
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VACharity walk benefiting the Alzheimer's Association.
7pm$45
About 30 min drive30 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.
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.
5 to 10pm
About 35 min drive35 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.
8 to 11am, every SundayFree
About 40 min drive40 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 40 min drive40 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).
11am to 5pm$20
About 40 min drive40 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.
2:30 to 3:30pm
About 40 min drive40 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.
34 more, 45 min or fartherBethesda, Brookeville, College Park
7:30pm
About 45 min drive45 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.
8am to 4pm, every SundayFree
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCYear-round Sunday farmers market with 50+ local farmers plus prepared foods, flowers, and artisan goods in Dupont Circle.
8:30am to 1:30pm, every SundayFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
10am to 3pm, every SundayFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
10am to 12pm
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCFall harvest family program at the National Museum of American History.
12 to 4pmFree
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCCelebrate six years of Planet Word with signature exhibit experiences.
8pm$63.50
About 45 min drive45 minWarner Theatre, Washington, DCWelch and Rawlings play an acoustic Grateful Dead program at the Warner Theatre. JamBase lists tickets from $63.50.
11am to 7pmFree
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCSensory early-childhood program at the National Museum of Natural History.
10:30 to 11am, one of 3 dates
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCSesame Street planetarium show for young children.
10:30 to 10:55am, one of 25 datesFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
11am to 6:30pmFree
About 45 min drive45 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.
10:30 to 11amFree
About 50 min drive50 minRockville, MDNot-so-spooky Halloween stories; costume optional.
11am to 1:30pm$25
About 50 min drive50 minBethesda, MDFamily workshop building an Operation-style game (two sessions merged).
2:30 to 4pm, one of 2 dates$25
About 50 min drive50 minBethesda, MDOpen electronics studio session for 4th grade and up.
1 to 3:30pm
About 50 min drive50 minPurcellville, VAPaint a portrait of your pet at 868 Estate Vineyards in Purcellville. Ticket includes a glass of wine or soda, and $10 of each ticket is donated to Margaret Saving Grace Bully Rescue.
12 to 5pm
About 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCThe Southwest DC Community Center hosts Fall Family Fest 2026, a family community event in Waterfront Park at The Wharf.
11 to 11:30amFree
About 50 min drive50 minSilver Spring, MDBilingual English/French storytime.
12pm
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCFall Family Fest 2026, a daytime family festival on the Southwest waterfront.
10am to 2pm, every SundayFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCSunday market adjacent to Union Market with produce, pastured meats, artisan baked goods, roasted coffee, prepared foods, and local flowers.
11:30am, every Sunday
About 50 min drive50 minBreathing Space Studio, Washington, DCSunday baby yoga and play for newborns to pre-crawlers with a caregiver at the Breathing Space studio on Pennsylvania Avenue SE. October dates from the Breathing Space calendar; registration required.
10 to 10:45am, one of 8 dates
About 50 min drive50 minHill Center DC, Washington, DCSunday family yoga and creative movement for ages 21 months to 4 years with a caregiver, a Breathing Space series at Hill Center. Registration through Breathing Space; price shown at checkout.
4:30 to 6:30pmFree
About 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCFree Cajun concert in the American Roots series; family-friendly.
12pm$45
About 50 min drive50 minThe Roost, Washington, DCWine festival at The Roost food hall pouring wines from ancient wine regions, with food vendors on site. $45 per person, starts at noon.
2pm
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DC54th annual BSF/LSF school fair at the University of the District of Columbia Student Center, connecting families with local schools.
11am to 12pmFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCFree story hour where drag storyteller Tiffany D. Carter reads books to kids; RSVP is requested and, for safety, adults must be accompanied by a child.
11am to 12pm, every SundayFree
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCFree monthly drag story hour with special guest readers at Loyalty's Petworth shop.
3pm
About 60 min drive60 minGildenhorn Recital Hall, College Park, MDThe Grammy-winning Takács Quartet plays Haydn, Carlos Simon, and Schubert in the Clarice's Dekelboum Concert Hall. A Sunday afternoon of top-tier chamber music. Student tickets available for $15.
12 to 4pm, through Oct 19
About 65 min drive65 minSandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring, MDTenth annual outdoor sculpture exhibition on Sandy Spring Museum's seven acres, organized with the Washington Sculptors Group. Seventeen sculptors place work in dialogue with the landscape, juried by curator Maria Gabriela Mizes.
12 to 4pm, through Oct 19
About 65 min drive65 minSandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring, MDTextile works by artist Kianga Jinaki, from dolls and quilts to layered collages with beads, buttons and cowrie shells, tracing her lifelong conversation with cloth. Reception Sunday, October 11, 2 to 4 pm, opening with a percussion performance by MORE THAN A DRUM. At Sandy Spring Museum.
12 to 4pm, through Oct 19
About 65 min drive65 minSandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring, MDExhibition by the Weavers Guild of Greater Baltimore tracing weaving's role in American life, from early domestic craft to contemporary art. Historical coverlets and overshot patterns meet modern fibers and experimental techniques, timed to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. At Sandy Spring Museum.
All day$24
About 70 min drive70 minBrookeville Beer Farm, Brookeville, MDThe Baltimore DC Clemson Club gathers for a fall afternoon at Brookeville Beer Farm with a flight tasting led by the brewmaster (a $16 value), a cornhole tournament with prizes, brick oven pizza, pumpkins, apples, and jams, plus 10% off group purchases. Tickets are $9 for club members and $24 for non-members; kids 12 and under are free and dogs are welcome.
Next week
MondayOctober 19
10am to 6pm, every Monday
About 20 min drive20 minHerndon, VAHalloween-themed scavenger hunt at the Herndon Fortnightly Library info desk.
4:30 to 6pm
About 20 min drive20 minHerndon, VAMonday LEGO building club in the Herndon Maker Lab.
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.
10 to 10:30am, every MondayFree
About 25 min drive25 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 25 min drive25 minOakton, VASensory-friendly storytime at Oakton Library.
10 to 11:30am
About 30 min drive30 minDouglass Community Center, Leesburg, VAOne-time morning session for ages 1 to 3 at the Douglass Community Center in Leesburg.
10am to 12pm, every MondayFree
About 30 min drive30 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.
10:30 to 11:15am, every MondayFree
About 30 min drive30 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.
5 to 5:45pm
About 30 min drive30 minFalls Church, VARead-to-a-therapy-dog sessions with Molly (three slots merged).
10:30 to 11am, one of 16 dates
About 35 min drive35 minMary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VASongs, stories and rhymes with early-literacy playtime until noon for ages 18 months to 4 years.
20 more, 45 min or fartherAlexandria, Greenbelt, Lovettsville
10:30am to 12pm, every Monday
About 45 min drive45 minDel Pepper Community Center, Alexandria, VAFree weekly parent-child playgroup for ages 0 to 5 at Del Pepper Community Center; application required.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 45 min drive45 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Guy Mason Recreation Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 45 min drive45 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 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 18 months to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Chevy Chase Community Center.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Monday
About 50 min drive50 minJames M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, Alexandria, VAMorning baby session with rhymes and movement for ages 0 to 14 months; free tickets required.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 50 min drive50 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 50 min drive50 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Columbia Heights Community Center.
10am to 12pm, every Monday
About 50 min drive50 minLovettsville, VAWeekly Monday messy art play for young children.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 50 min drive50 minRaymond 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.
10:30 to 11:30am, every MondayFree
About 55 min drive55 minRockville, MDStorytime for preschool-age children and caregivers, followed by stay and play.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 55 min drive55 minTurkey Thicket 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.
10:15 to 10:45amFree
About 55 min drive55 minMount Rainier, MDPreschool storytime with stories, songs, and fingerplays.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 55 min drive55 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 18 months to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at Ridge Road Community Center.
9am to 12pm, through Oct 23
About 60 min drive60 minWashington, DCCooperative play program for ages 2.5 to 4 years, Monday through Friday 9am to 12pm, at North Michigan Park Recreation Center.
10:30 to 11:15amFree
About 65 min drive65 minGreenbelt, MDStories, songs, and a short film with Greenbelt Cinema.
TuesdayOctober 20
10 to 10:30am, one of 4 datesFree
About 5 min drive5 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.
11am, one of 6 datesFree
About 15 min drive15 minChantilly, VAWeekly Tuesday and Thursday space-themed story time at the Udvar-Hazy Center.
10:30 to 11am, every Tuesday
About 25 min drive25 minHaymarket Gainesville Library, Haymarket, VAWeekly Tuesday storytime for toddlers 18 to 36 months at the Haymarket Gainesville branch.
10:30 to 11:15am, every TuesdayFree
About 30 min drive30 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 30 min drive30 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 Tuesday
About 30 min drive30 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 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 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Tuesday early-morning baby lapsit storytime.
10:45 to 11:45am, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Tuesday late-morning baby lapsit storytime.
4 to 5pm, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly read-to-a-therapy-dog session for children ages 4-12.
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.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Tuesday
About 35 min drive35 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 35 min drive35 minCentral Library, Arlington, VASecond Tuesday morning storytime with stories, songs, rhymes and fingerplays for children 0 to 5.
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.
9:15 to 10:45am, one of 9 dates
About 40 min drive40 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, one of 14 datesFree
About 40 min drive40 minArlington, VAFree story time every Tuesday and Thursday at the toy store.
2 to 2:30pm, every Tuesday
About 40 min drive40 minCourthouse Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies, plus time to meet other caregivers; no registration needed.
WednesdayOctober 21
11am to 12pm, every WednesdayFree
About 5 min drive5 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.
10:15 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 to 10:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 20 min drive20 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.
10:30 to 11:30am, every Wednesday
About 20 min drive20 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 20 min drive20 minReston Regional Library, Reston, VAAfternoon lapsit storytime with stories, rhymes and songs for babies up to 18 months.
11am, every WednesdayFree
About 20 min drive20 minBarnes & Noble Reston, Reston, VAWeekly in-store storytime for little ones at 11 AM on Wednesdays.
10:30 to 11:15am, every Wednesday
About 25 min drive25 minHaymarket Gainesville Library, Haymarket, VAWeekly storytime with songs and playtime for babies and caregivers; registration required each week.
10 to 10:30am, every WednesdayFree
About 25 min drive25 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 WednesdayFree
About 25 min drive25 minOakton Library, Oakton, VAA storytime for toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years, followed by a playdate with toddler toys. No registration required.
10:30 to 11am, every Wednesday
About 25 min drive25 minBurke Centre Library, Burke, VASongs, lap bounces and stories for babies from birth to 18 months, followed by playtime. Free.
10 to 11am
About 30 min drive30 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 Wednesday
About 30 min drive30 minTysons-Pimmit Regional Library, Falls Church, VASongs, bounces and stories for babies; entrance tickets available 30 minutes before the session.
10:30 to 11am, every Wednesday
About 30 min drive30 minPohick Regional Library, Burke, VAStories, songs and rhymes geared to two-year-olds at the Pohick branch in Burke.
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 11:15am, every Wednesday
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Wednesday sensory-friendly storytime for preschoolers and toddlers.
4 to 5pm, every Wednesday
About 40 min drive40 minCherrydale Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies 0 to 12 months in the Cherrydale branch Loft; space is limited.
ThursdayOctober 22
11am to 12pm, every Thursday
About 10 min drive10 minBrambleton Library, Ashburn, VAWeekly baby storytime: 30 minutes of stories and songs, then 30 minutes of playtime, ages 0 to 18 months.
10:30 to 11am, every ThursdayFree
About 20 min drive20 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.
5:30 to 6:30pm, one of 2 datesFree
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VAFree community mat Pilates class in Window Plaza.
10:30 to 11:15am, every ThursdayFree
About 25 min drive25 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 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.
11 to 11:30am, every ThursdayFree
About 30 min drive30 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.
10:30 to 11am, every Thursday
About 30 min drive30 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 35 min drive35 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.
10:15 to 10:45am, every Thursday
About 35 min drive35 minCentral Library, Arlington, VASongs, rhymes and games for babies 0 to 12 months; free tickets at the Youth Services desk.
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.
FridayOctober 23
5 to 8pm, through Oct 24
About 15 min drive15 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.
10am to 12pm, one of 11 dates
About 20 min drive20 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.
10:30 to 11:30am, every Friday
About 20 min drive20 minHerndon Fortnightly Meeting Room, Herndon, VAOpen playdate with toys for little ones plus social time for caregivers. Drop in Friday mornings.
10:30am to 12pm, every Friday
About 25 min drive25 minHaymarket, VAPre-K early literacy skill-building sessions.
6 to 10pm$161.90
About 25 min drive25 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 30 min drive30 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.
10:30 to 11:30am, every Friday
About 35 min drive35 minGreat Falls, VAWeekly Friday free-play social hour for children ages 0-6.
8am to 12pm, every FridayFree
About 35 min drive35 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 35 min drive35 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.
11:30am to 12pm, every FridayFree
About 35 min drive35 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 35 min drive35 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.
5:30 to 8:30pm
About 40 min drive40 minThe Big Tent at Great Meadow, The Plains, VAA Friday-evening fundraiser the night before the Gold Cup, pairing hunt-country restaurants and caterers with cocktails, dancing and live music. All proceeds go to the Fauquier Free Clinic.
10:30 to 11amFree
About 40 min drive40 minBethesda, MDBilingual storytime for the whole family.
SaturdayOctober 24
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 to 1pm, one of 2 datesFree
About 15 min drive15 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.
3 to 8pm$10
About 20 min drive20 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 20 min drive20 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.
5 to 9pm
About 20 min drive20 minReston, VAOutdoor DJ dance party at Reston Town Center.
7 to 10pm$20
About 25 min drive25 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.
11am to 5pm
About 25 min drive25 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 25 min drive25 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 5pm, through Oct 25$20
About 25 min drive25 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.
All day
About 30 min drive30 minManassas, VAYoung makers sell their creations at the Kids Markets hosted by the Historic Manassas Farmers Market.
11am
About 30 min drive30 minVienna, VAAuthor Patricia Tanumihardja hosts a story time at Bards Alley Bookshop in Vienna on Saturday, October 24 at 11am.
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.
10am to 5pm, through Oct 25
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAA two-day workshop with Teresa Oaxaca on painting a child's portrait in oils, 10am to 5pm each day.
All day
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAGo Fish brings high-energy Christian music and fun to Ballston Quarter in a live event made for kids.
All day
About 35 min drive35 minArlington, VAKids get hands-on baking fun at Cookology Culinary School in Ballston Quarter.
10 to 11am$9
About 40 min drive40 minGreat Falls, VAHike through fall foliage, identify trees, and make a leaf craft (2026 edition).
10am
About 40 min drive40 minGreat Meadow, The Plains, VAThe 89th International Gold Cup brings steeplechase racing to Great Meadow in The Plains: gates at 10, first race at noon. Between races expect tailgate contests, hat contests and dachshund races in peak foliage.
SundayOctober 25
12 to 3pmFree
About 20 min drive20 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 25 min drive25 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 35 min drive35 minAnnandale, VAPreschool pumpkin hunt with miniature pumpkins to take home (slots at 2:30 or 4 pm).
1:30 to 3:30pmFree
About 40 min drive40 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.
Drive times are from the center of South Riding without traffic; where none is computed yet, the distance is a straight line.Only the soonest 300 events are shown.Events come from Fall events in DC, Northern Virginia family events, Art events in the DMV, Northern Virginia local events, Live music in the DMV, Crypto and blockchain meetups in the DMV, Washington DC family events, Wine and beer events in the DMV, DMV Collectible Shows, Northern Virginia garage sales and estate sales, NoVA infant activities, DMV cultural events, NoMa infant events, DC Antique, Vintage & Flea Markets, NoVA Antique, Vintage & Flea Markets and Washington DC estate and garage sales, 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.