October in the DMV: Your Ultimate Fall Fun Guide
There’s something magical about October in the DC metro area — crisp air, changing leaves, and weekends packed with festivals, food, and fall adventures. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a cozy date night, or a friends’ weekend, the DMV is bursting with ways to celebrate the season. Here are some of our favorite things to do this October across DC, Maryland, and Virginia!
🍻 Wunder Garten / DC Oktoberfest Celebrations — Washington, DC
From mid-September into October, DC comes alive with Oktoberfest celebrations! Head to Wunder Garten in NoMa for stein hoisting contests, live music, bratwurst, pretzels, and festive decor—or stop by The Wharf for waterfront brews and the adorable Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash. It’s one of DC’s happiest fall traditions and perfect for friends or couples looking for lively weekend fun.
When: Various weekends through October
Tickets: Varies by location (some free, others ticketed)
Website: Wunder Garten
🍺 Snallygaster Beer & Cider Festival — Washington, DC
One of DC’s signature fall events, Snallygaster transforms Pennsylvania Avenue into a lively beer and cider festival with hundreds of breweries, cideries, live music, and gourmet food trucks. It’s the ultimate outdoor tasting party with a perfect fall vibe.
When: Typically one weekend in October (check site for current date)
Tickets: Starting around $75 (VIP passes available)
Website: snallygaster.com
🍂 Cox Farms Fall Festival — Centreville, VA
Northern Virginia’s favorite fall tradition! Cox Farms offers hayrides, slides, pumpkin picking, and a “Cornundrum” maze packed with fun surprises. It’s a must for families or anyone ready for classic autumn fun.
When: September 20 – November 9, 2025 (weekends + select weekdays)
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tickets: Available online at coxfarmsva.com
🍷 Mount Vernon Fall Harvest Festival + Bull Run Wine Festival — Northern Virginia
Make a weekend of it! Mount Vernon’s Fall Harvest Festival celebrates colonial-era traditions with 18th-century farm demos and family activities. Meanwhile, nearby Bull Run Wine Fest brings local vineyards, food, and music together for a relaxing countryside experience.
When: October 18–19, 2025
Tickets & Info: Visit fxva.com for both festivals
🌾 Loudoun Fall Farm Tour — Loudoun County, VA
Spend a day in the countryside visiting open farms across Loudoun County. You’ll find fresh produce, handmade goods, animal meet-and-greets, and scenic autumn views—perfect for families, photographers, and foodies alike.
When: October 18–19, 2025
Tickets: Free entry (check farms for specific activities)
Website: visitloudoun.org
🌽 Blue Ridge Mountain Maze — Lovingston, VA
Lose yourself (literally!) in Virginia’s most scenic corn maze. With daytime adventures, nighttime maze challenges, live music, and cozy fire pits, the Blue Ridge Mountain Maze is the perfect fall weekend escape.
When: Weekends through November 9, 2025
Hours: Fri 12–6 PM | Sat 10 AM–10 PM | Sun 10 AM–6 PM
Tickets: blueridgemountainmaze.com
🍎 Great Country Farms Fall Pumpkin Harvest — Bluemont, VA
This classic pumpkin patch offers everything from pig races and bonfires to cider donuts and wagon rides. Great Country Farms is a beloved local spot that truly captures the spirit of fall.
When: September 19 – October 31, 2025
Tickets: greatcountryfarms.com
⛵ Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race — MD & VA
For something unique, catch the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race, a 127-nautical-mile sailing event from Annapolis to Portsmouth. Watch majestic schooners glide across the bay and enjoy the pre- and post-race dockside festivities in both Maryland and Virginia.
When: October (dates vary yearly)
Website: schoonerrace.org
🍂 More Fall Adventures Around the DMV
- Haunted ghost tours in historic Maryland towns — spooky storytelling, candlelit streets, and haunted landmarks. (Visit marylandghosttours.com)
- Theatre Week in DC — discounted tickets to performances across local theaters. (See theatreweek.org)
- Scenic foliage drives through Great Falls, Shenandoah, and Sugarloaf Mountain — pack cider and a camera!
🎃 Happy October From Jennifer Young Homes
At Jennifer Young Homes, we love this time of year — it’s when our region shines with color, community, and endless ways to enjoy where you live. Whether you’re cheering at a festival, sipping cider at a winery, or exploring new neighborhoods, we hope you make the most of October in the DMV.
If you’re thinking about making a move before the holidays or just want to explore new communities, our team is always here to help you fall in love with your next home. 🍁
Contact Us to learn more about buying or selling this season!
