Virginia’s Autumn Celebration: 19 Must‑Visit Fall Festivals in 2026

When the leaves start to turn golden and the air carries a hint of spice, Virginia comes alive with a parade of festivals that prove fall is more than just a season – it’s an experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor eager to sample the state’s harvest vibes, the 2026 lineup offers something for every taste.

Basset Hound Rescue Fall Festival – Herndon (Sept. 12) – Frying Pan Farm Park opens its fields from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a pet‑friendly day of games, raffles and, of course, adorable basset hounds looking for forever homes.

Reston Multicultural Festival – Reston (Sept. 19) – Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this vibrant showcase fills Reston Town Center with music, dance, art and cuisine from around the globe. It’s a reminder that Virginia’s communities are as diverse as the colors of autumn.

50th Annual Falls Church Festival & Taste of Falls Church – Falls Church (Sept. 19) – Free admission, a beer garden, local restaurant samples and over 90 vendors make this a staple for families and foodies alike.

Mount Vernon Colonial Market & Fair – Mount Vernon (Sept. 19‑20) – Step back in time as artisans in colonial garb demonstrate 18th‑century crafts. Music, magic tricks and historic merchandise turn the historic estate into a living museum.

Cox Farms Fall Festival – Centreville (Sept. 19‑Nov. 8) – Spanning more than 90 acres, the festival’s opening weekend features hayrides, slides, rope swings, corn mazes, fresh apples and cider. It runs on select days through early November, so you can pace yourself.

Capital One Center Celebration of the Arts – Tysons (Sept. 19‑20) – The streets surrounding the skyscraper become an interactive art playground, offering workshops, live music and tasty bites from noon to 5 p.m.

Clarendon Day – Arlington (Sept. 26) – This bustling street festival stretches across Clarendon Metro Park and eight adjacent blocks, delivering live tunes, global eats and a lively kids’ zone.

Saint Ann Fall Festival – Arlington (Sept. 26) – Held at Saint Ann Catholic Church, the free event starts at 10 a.m. with rides, inflatables, a 1.5‑mile fun run, bingo and a beer garden for the grown‑ups.

Burke Centre Festival – Burke (Sept. 26) – Expect arts and crafts, midway games, police and fire demonstrations, plus an evening wine and beer garden that attracts a relaxed crowd.

Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show – Occoquan (Sept. 26‑27) – More than 200 artisans line the historic town’s streets, offering handmade goods and hands‑on demos that delight both kids and collectors.

Alexandria Old Town Art Festival – Alexandria (Sept. 26‑27) – The 24th edition fills John Carlyle Square Park with local talent, live music and family‑friendly activities, making it a favorite on the city’s event calendar.

Mosaic Fall Festival – Fairfax (Sept. 26‑27) – The Mosaic District transforms into a autumnal playground with seasonal food trucks, live entertainment and plenty of artisan stalls.

Fall Fun Fest – Reston (Weekends through Oct. 31) – Hosted by Reston Farm Garden Market, this recurring weekend celebration serves up pumpkins, apple‑cider doughnuts and gardening tips right up to Halloween.

Vienna Oktoberfest – Vienna (Oct. 3) – Church Street turns into a Bavarian haven from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., featuring bratwurst, pretzels, craft beer and kid‑friendly games.

Historic Downtown Manassas Fall Jubilee – Manassas (Oct. 3) – Highlighted by the state tourism office, the Jubilee mixes live music, food stalls and a festive atmosphere in the heart of downtown.

50th Annual Fairfax Fall Festival – Fairfax City (Oct. 10) – Over 400 vendors line downtown streets, offering crafts, food, multiple entertainment stages and a rain‑or‑shine beer garden.

Quacktoberfest – Fredericksburg (Oct. 17) – A brand‑new tradition at Riverfront Park includes a quirky Rubber Ducky Derby, carnival rides, live music and a twilight screening of “Hocus Pocus.”

Centreville Day – Centreville (Oct. 17) – The 34th edition kicks off at Historic Centreville Park, delivering classic fair rides, local food and community spirit.

Art & Craft Fair and Fall Festival – Reston (Oct. 24) – United Christian Parish hosts a free family day with face painting, games, a juried art show and more than 30 creators displaying their work.

All told, Virginia’s autumn calendar reads like a love letter to the season. So grab a sweater, round up the family, and let the festivals guide your fall adventure.