Seasonal Fun: What to Do in NOVA This Weekend
Northern Virginia transforms with the seasons, offering something special for everyone. Whether you’re into pumpkin patches, outdoor concerts, or cozy indoor activities, NOVA is packed with ways to enjoy your weekend. From rolling hills to charming towns, you’re never far from your next adventure. Explore this week’s top picks and see why NOVA is such a great place to call home!
Live Comedy _CakeIsMyFriend Comedy at Giuseppes Haymarket
Friday, September 5 · 8 – 9:30pm EDT. Doors at 7:30pm
Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant
15120 Washington Street Haymarket, VA 20169 United States
From $28.52
About the Event
Get ready for an unforgettable night of laughter at Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant with CakeIsMyFriend’s live comedy spectacular! Join us for an evening packed with gut-busting jokes and incredible energy as four of the DMV’s hottest comedic talents take the stage. Watch Jamal Russell, winner of Comedy Kumite 32 and festival veteran from Ice House LA to Caroline’s on Broadway, deliver his championship-level humor. Catch Jemar Harris bringing his engaging Charlottesville charm, while Sean Savoy—one of the region’s most dynamic voices—keeps you hooked with high-energy storytelling and fearless takes you’ll be quoting for weeks. Plus, don’t miss Trey Solo mixing charm, wit, and just the right touch of mischief with his smooth delivery and clever punchlines that turn everyday moments into laugh-out-loud gold. With doors opening 30 minutes before showtime, shared seating that creates an intimate community vibe, and a few exclusive four-person tables available, this is your chance to experience comedy magic up close—but remember, this show features adult themes and all sales are final, so grab your tickets now!
National Symphony Orchestra w/ Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows In Concert
Friday, Sep 5 at 8:00PM
Wolf Trap Filene Center
Vienna 22181
About the Event
Experience the magic like never before as the National Symphony Orchestra brings Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to life in an unforgettable cinematic concert experience! Watch the epic finale of the beloved series unfold on the big screen while a full orchestra performs John Williams’ breathtaking score live, creating an immersive adventure that will send chills down your spine. From heart-pounding battle scenes to tender moments of triumph, every note will transport you straight into the wizarding world for a night of pure enchantment that fans and music lovers alike won’t want to miss.
Every Brilliant Thing presented by Actors Theatre at the Artfactory
Friday, Sep 5 at 7:30PM – 10:00PM
ARTfactory
9419 Battle Street Manassas 20110
About the Event
Don’t miss Duncan Macmillan’s Every Brilliant Thing at the Actors Theatre – a heart-wrenching, hilarious masterpiece that will have you laughing through tears and cherishing life’s small wonders. This deeply moving one-person show, performed brilliantly by David Johnson, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the eyes of a resilient protagonist who reminds us that hope and human connection can triumph even in our darkest moments. Experience this extraordinary theatrical celebration of life at the Wind River Theatre (ARTfactory) on Friday and Saturday, September 5-6 at 7:30 pm, or Sunday, September 7 at 2 pm – tickets are just $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors, but the memories will be priceless.
Reggae on the Lake 2025
Saturday, September 6 · 9am – 9pm EDT
1609 Washington Plaza North Reston, VA 20190 United States
About the Event
Get ready to feel the rhythm at the 4th annual “Reggae on the Lake” festival on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston, VA! This FREE community celebration features legendary headliner Mykal Rose of BLACK UHURU, one of reggae’s most enduring voices, alongside an incredible lineup including Eclipse International Band, I & I Riddim, Ras Lidj & the Regg’go Band, and Proverbs Reggae Band. Dance to authentic Jamaican beats while enjoying traditional food, kids’ activities with face painting and games, local vendors, and arts and crafts—all while supporting CORNERSTONES, our community partner dedicated to helping families achieve self-sufficiency. Don’t miss your chance to win a FREE all-inclusive weekend trip for two to Negril, Jamaica through our raffle (tickets limited, approximately 1-in-500 odds), with all proceeds benefiting this vital cause. Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable day of reggae music, delicious food, community spirit, and pure Caribbean vibes right here in Reston—reserve your free tickets today at our website and join us for this awesome celebration!
Falling for Art
Saturday, September 6 · 6:30 – 8:30pm EDT
La Madeleine
1833 Fountain Drive Reston, VA 20190 United States
$49.87
About the Event
Ready to unleash your inner artist? Come down to La Madeleine Cafe for Falling for Art, a cozy and festive evening of creativity and fun! No experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm. Sip on a complimentary glass of wine, savor delicious French food, and let our talented instructor guide you step-by-step as you create your own masterpiece. We’ll provide all the supplies, so all you need to do is relax, socialize, and get creative. Book your spot now for a fantastic night out. We can’t wait to see you there!
US Asian Fest – Dulles Town Center’s Largest Festival
Saturday, September 6 · 2 – 9pm EDT. Doors at 1:30pm
Dulles Town Center
21100 Dulles Town Circle Sterling, VA 20166 United States
$12.50 – $35
About the Event
that will transport you straight into the heart of vibrant Asian culture. From captivating traditional dances and soul-stirring music to stunning art displays, this festival is your gateway to celebrating the beautiful diversity and unity that makes our community so special—and you won’t want to miss a single moment of this incredible celebration!
4th Annual Mad Jazz & Wine Festival
Saturday, Sep 6 at 11:00AM – 5:00PM
Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery
154 Winery Lane Leon 22725
About the Event
Get ready for an unforgettable day of world-class jazz, award-winning Virginia wine, and meaningful community impact at the 4th Annual Mad Jazz & Wine Festival on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the breathtaking Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery in Leon, Virginia! This isn’t just another music festival—it’s where Grammy-winning artists like The Baylor Project (8X Grammy nominee) and Carmen Bradford (2024 Grammy winner) take the stage alongside rising stars like Charlottesville’s own Jen Tal, all while you sip on exclusive wines including “Shuffle,” crafted in partnership with jazz legend Bernard “Pretty” Purdie himself. Whether you choose VIP access with premium seating, complimentary wine, and exclusive performances, or general admission lawn seating with your blanket and friends, every ticket helps fight food insecurity through our partnership with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank—so you’ll be grooving to incredible music, savoring delicious local food and wine, and making a real difference in Central Virginia all at the same time. Rain or shine, this sell-out event promises a perfect blend of soul-stirring music, vineyard views, community spirit, and purpose-driven fun that you absolutely won’t want to miss!
Pleasant Valley 5K Run/Walk, Aquathlon Challenge, and Dog Swim
Saturday, Sep 6 at 7:00AM – 7:00PM
4347 Cub Run Road
Chantilly 20151
About the Event
Dive into summer fun at Pleasant Valley Pool’s amazing Swim/5K Aquathlon and community celebration! Whether you’re ready to splash through a refreshing 125m pool swim followed by a scenic 5K run through Cub Run’s beautiful neighborhood trails, or prefer to keep your feet dry with just the 5K fun run, we’ve got the perfect summer adventure waiting for you. And here’s the best part—your furry friends can join the party too with our special afternoon dog swim where the entire pool becomes a canine paradise! Every registration comes with an awesome event shirt, post-event snacks, and the satisfaction of knowing your participation directly supports Pleasant Valley Pool while also helping two incredible local charities: Western Fairfax Christian Ministries Food Pantry (fighting hunger and homelessness since 1987) and the Major Lucas Legacy Foundation (providing educational scholarships to strengthen our community). Choose from our in-person aquathlon, 5K run, virtual 5K option, or bring your dog for the ultimate pool party—whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable day of fitness, fun, and community spirit that makes a real difference!
Fig Orchard and Gardens Self Guided Walking Tours
Saturday, Sep 6 at 12:00PM – Sep 7 at 5:00PM
National Botanic Gardens
26320 Ticonderoga Road
Chantilly 20152
About the Event
Step into a world of wonder where upcycled artistry meets natural beauty! Discover our enchanting sculpture gardens, stroll through serene bamboo groves and past cascading Kyoto waterfalls, and capture magical moments at our whimsical Hobbit Town and castle folly. Pack a picnic to enjoy by our peaceful lakeside, explore the ripening fig orchard, and if you’re feeling adventurous, climb Knop Mountain—the highest point between the Atlantic and Blue Ridge foothills—where on crystal-clear days you can spot the Washington Monument through binoculars! With garden tours starting at $35 and mountain access for just $45, this breathtaking seasonal experience opens at noon and promises an unforgettable day of exploration, photography, and pure magic that will leave you and your loved ones absolutely spellbound. Don’t forget your camera, comfortable shoes, and sense of adventure—this one-of-a-kind destination is waiting to take your breath away!
Healthy Kids Running Series Fall 2025 – Stafford, VA
Sunday, Sep 7 at 4:00PM – Oct 19 at 5:00PM
Colonial Forge High School
550 Courthouse Rd Stafford 22554
About the Event
Get ready for an exciting season of fun and fitness with the Healthy Kids Running Series! This five-week program, held in the spring and fall, is perfect for kids from Pre-K through 8th grade. Each week, runners can dash, sprint, and race in age-appropriate events, from the 50-yard dash to the 1-mile run. We’re proud to offer our Challenger Division, an adaptive 75-yard race for children with disabilities, where support from family and friends is always welcome. Every participant will receive a runner shirt and race bibs, and at the end of the series, a shiny finisher’s medal to celebrate their achievement! Trophies will also be awarded to the top finishers in each division. Whether you join for the full five weeks or just a single race day, it’s all about having fun, staying active, and making new friends. Let’s get running!
Autumn Sugar Cookie Decorating!
Sunday, September 7 · 2:30 – 4:30pm EDT
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
10927 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
$113.89
About the Event
Get ready to create edible masterpieces at our beginner-friendly cookie decorating class with expert instructor Stephanie H from Fran’s! You’ll dive hands-first into the delicious world of royal icing as you transform 8 pre-baked cookies into works of art using professional outlining, flooding, and wet-on-wet techniques—plus you’ll get those coveted pumpkin spice recipes everyone’s talking about! With step-by-step guidance from Stephanie, who’s been winning decorating awards for over 15 years, you’ll master the skills needed to impress family and friends while enjoying exclusive 5% savings on supplies. Whether you’re 13+ (or 10+ with a ticketed adult), this 2-hour hands-on adventure includes everything you need—tools, supplies, and a take-home box for your creations—so just bring an apron and prepare for a delightfully messy, absolutely rewarding experience that’ll have you decorating like a pro!
Fully Bloomed Festival
Sunday, September 7 · 12 – 6:30pm EDT
Hilltop Farms
6761 Bull Run Post Office Road Centreville, VA 20120 United States
About the Event
Get ready for the ultimate end-of-summer self-care celebration that’s designed to help you bloom into your fullest self! This incredible soiree brings together everything you need for a day of pure rejuvenation—from your exclusive Fully Bloomed Journal and luxury swag bag worth over $150, to nourishing meals, refreshing beverages, and exciting giveaways throughout the day. Dive deep into transformative experiences like our expert-led panel discussion with a licensed therapist, hands-on journaling workshop, calming breathwork meditation, and healing sound bath that will reset your entire energy. Create lasting memories as you blend your own personalized herbal tea, connect with amazing like-minded souls through our guided friendship activities, and lounge in our picture-perfect luxury picnic setup while soaking up the sunshine. With experiential wellness activations, endless photo opportunities, meaningful community conversations, and so many more surprises we haven’t even revealed yet, this is your chance to reconnect with yourself, meet your new favorite people, and indulge in activities that truly nourish your mind, body, and soul—all in one unforgettable day!
Puerto Rican Bomba Percussion Classes: Fredericksburg
Sunday, September 7・4:00pm EDT
Virtuous Dance Center
31 Utah Place #101 Fredericksburg, VA 22405 United States
About the Event
Get ready to feel the infectious rhythms of Puerto Rico! Join us for an exciting Puerto Rican Bomba Percussion workshop in Fredericksburg where you’ll master the fundamentals of this vibrant musical tradition using authentic barriles, maracas, and cuas. Whether you’re 5 or 95, a complete beginner or seasoned musician, everyone is welcome to dive into these captivating rhythms that will have you moving and grooving from the very first beat. For just $20 per teen/adult/senior or $10 for children, you’ll learn new rhythms each class and experience the joy of this incredible cultural art form. We have bomba drums available (limited quantity), but if you own a djembe, timba, conga, or barril and classes are full, shoot us an email—we’ll make room for passionate drummers ready to embrace the spirit of bomba!
NOVA is full of unique activities waiting for you—whether that’s picking apples, strolling through historic streets, or exploring local parks. No matter your interests, there’s always something new to enjoy nearby.
So why not get out and explore this weekend? Share your favorite spots or adventures in the comments below, and tag your photos with #NOVAWeekendFun. Let’s make the most of what our amazing region has to offer!
KATIE WEDGE
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