The first weekend of October 2023 in Northern Virginia offers a wealth of engaging activities perfect for all interests, making it an ideal time to explore the vibrant local scene.
From cultural celebrations to music festivals and family-friendly events, there is no shortage of things to do.
One highlight is the **Mid-Autumn Night Market**, taking place on October 2 from 5 to 11 p.m. at Union Market.
This open-air, Hong Kong-style night market features cultural performances, local artisans, food stalls, pop-up shops, and late-night DJs, all organized by the Michelin-honored Cantonese restaurant Tiger Fork and its sister bar Hi-Lawn.
With tickets priced at $7.56, it’s a great opportunity to experience the dynamic atmosphere of this unique market.
The following weekend, from October 3 to 5, the **Waterford Fair** celebrates over 80 years of tradition, showcasing local history and arts.
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, attendees can enjoy live music, sample local food, and watch artists demonstrate wood carving, soap making, and textile weaving.
Tours of historic homes are also available, with proceeds benefiting the Waterford Foundation, which works to preserve the town’s rich history.
Entry starts at $21.58, while children aged 12 and under can attend for free.
Another unmissable event on October 3 is the **Festival Latinoamericano**, running from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Arlington Mill Community Center.
This annual festival highlights the diverse Latin American cultures within the Arlington community.
Guests can savor local cuisine, enjoy live music from acts such as Cubano Groove, and support local businesses like Pakos Fresh Mex and Portal Maya.
Best of all, entry is free, making it accessible for all who wish to celebrate Latin culture.
Later that evening at 8 p.m., the **Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chambers Ensemble** will perform at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts.
Classical music enthusiasts can look forward to hearing famed works including Franz Schubert’s “Octet in F Major,” alongside a special commission created for the ensemble.
Tickets for this special concert start at $41, promising an unforgettable evening of music.
On October 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the **Art on the Avenue** festival celebrates multicultural arts and music in Del Ray.
This 30th annual event features over 300 artists, with crafts ranging from jewelry to pottery on display.
Along with live music and more than 30 food vendors, there is also a pie baking competition, with proceeds benefiting the Alexandria Women’s Domestic Abuse Shelter.
Entry to Art on the Avenue is free, making it a wonderful way to support artists and engage with the local community.
From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the same day, the **Vienna Oktoberfest** invites visitors to relish a day of German folk festivities.
Enjoy live entertainment from three different stages, a variety of beers and wines, traditional German cuisine, and artisan crafts at this family-friendly festival, which is free to attend.
Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the **37th Annual Leesburg Car Show**, happening on October 4 from 12 to 4 p.m.
Featuring more than 150 classic, muscle, and custom cars, this event takes place in the parking lot of the Loudoun County Public Schools administrative building.
All proceeds from the show will go toward supporting local students, particularly in the form of scholarships.
The **Rosslyn Fall Fest** follows on October 4 from 1 to 6 p.m., offering a delightful mix of seasonal treats, local beers, and live music performances.
The festival schedule includes a pie-eating contest, pumpkin decorating, and various lawn games, all set within the community atmosphere of NOW Pop-Up Park.
Like many other events that weekend, the Rosslyn Fall Fest is free, welcoming all ages to enjoy the festivities.
For those interested in astronomy, the **Moongaze on International Observe the Moon Night** on October 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. offers an exciting opportunity.
Guests at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum will have access to telescopes and expertise from museum staff and members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club, enhancing the experience of observing the night sky.
Finally, wrapping up the exciting packed weekend, **Twenty One Pilots** will perform on October 5 at 8 p.m. at Jiffy Lube Live.
The duo’s concert will feature their popular hits, including songs from their latest album, Breach, which was released on September 12.
With tickets starting at $67, fans won’t want to miss this chance to see the genre-blending artists live.
Additionally, the **Cox Farms Fall Festival** runs through November 9, open Thursdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Enjoy an array of family-friendly activities including hayrides, slides, a corn maze, and animal interactions at the goat petting zoo.
With a delicious selection of fall foods available, this festival is perfect for families looking to enjoy the rustic charm of autumn.
With such a wide variety of activities taking place across Northern Virginia this weekend, residents and visitors alike are sure to find something memorable to enjoy.
image source from：northernvirginiamag
