The holiday season is beginning to sparkle across NOVA! From festive tree lightings and handmade holiday markets to family-friendly festivals, live music, and delicious food experiences, November 13-15 brings a weekend filled with memorable moments. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, planning a family outing, or looking for something different to do, these 15 local events offer plenty of reasons to explore NOVA.
Virginia Sourdough
@ BDHS Holiday Craft Fair

November 14, Saturday ยท 9:00 AM โ 2:00 PM
Brentsville District High School
12113 Aden Road, Nokesville, VA 20181
๐๏ธ Public Event
The holiday shopping season gets a delicious homemade twist at Brentsville District High School! Join Virginia Sourdough for a festive craft fair featuring freshly baked sourdough favorites and thoughtful gifts for baking enthusiasts. Discover organic sourdough pancake mixes, dehydrated starters, baking kits, and creative sourdough science kits for kids. It’s a wonderful opportunity to find something special, support local makers, and bring a little homemade goodness into your holiday celebrations.
Fall Festival at The Learning Experience – Gainesville

November 14, Saturday ยท 10:00 AM โ 12:00 PM
The Learning Experience – Gainesville
7541 Virginia Oaks Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155
๐๏ธ Free Public Event RSVP via Eventbrite
Colorful autumn fun awaits little explorers at The Learning Experience in Gainesville! This cheerful morning celebration brings families together for hands-on fall crafts, playful games, seasonal refreshments, and plenty of festive excitement. Children can enjoy creative activities designed just for them while parents connect with the welcoming school community. With autumn-inspired surprises and activities for young learners, it’s a sweet way to make new family memories before the season slips away. Space is limited, so advance RSVP is encouraged.
Art in the Yard at Eavesdrop!

November 14, Saturday ยท 12:00 PM โ 5:00 PM
Eavesdrop Brewery
7223 Centreville Road, Suite 115, Manassas, VA 20111
๐๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Public Event
An afternoon of artistic discovery takes over Eavesdrop Brewery as Art in the Yard returns with an inviting celebration of local creativity. Wander through displays of original artwork, explore handmade treasures from talented makers, and discover unique pieces you won’t find in an ordinary store. With craft beer, delicious food, and a relaxed family- and pet-friendly atmosphere, this open-air market brings together the best of artistic expression and community connection.
Empanada Festival in Manassas
by Latin City

November 15, Sunday ยท 11:00 AM โ 4:00 PM
Eavesdrop Brewery
7223 Centreville Road, Suite 115, Manassas, VA 20111
๐๏ธ Free Admission Free Tickets via Eventbrite
Follow the irresistible aroma of freshly prepared empanadas to one of Manassas’s most flavorful weekend celebrations! Hosted by Latin City, this outdoor festival showcases an exciting variety of empanadas inspired by culinary traditions across Latin America. From savory classics to creative sweet variations, every bite offers something new to discover. Add live music, refreshing drinks, and a lively family-friendly atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a delicious Sunday gathering.
2026 DV Rides Auto Show

November 14, Saturday ยท 11:00 AM โ 2:00 PM
Battlefield High School
15000 Graduation Drive, Haymarket, VA 20169
๐๏ธ Free Spectator Admission $20 Online Vehicle Registration at dvrides.com/register
Engines, polished chrome, and automotive passion take center stage at the 2026 DV Rides Auto Show! From carefully restored classics to customized modern favorites, this gathering invites car enthusiasts of every generation to celebrate their love of automobiles. Explore impressive vehicle displays, enjoy live DJ entertainment, browse food vendors, and take part in the excitement of judged contests, raffles, and People’s Choice voting. With cash prizes, trophies, and a welcoming community atmosphere, it’s a standout Saturday for anyone who appreciates a remarkable ride.
The Robinson Marketplace

November 15, Sunday ยท 9:00 AM โ 3:00 PM
The Robinson Marketplace
5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax, VA 22032
๐๏ธ Free Public Event
Step into a bustling marketplace filled with handcrafted treasures and festive shopping discoveries! The Robinson Marketplace returns with its annual craft fair, bringing together more than 70 handmade and small-business vendors for a day dedicated to creativity and community. Browse unique gifts, discover locally crafted pieces, and find thoughtful holiday surprises while supporting independent sellers. A silent auction adds another layer of excitement, making this a delightful stop for shoppers hoping to uncover something truly special.
Pups and Pour Overs

November 14, Saturday ยท 7:30 AM โ 9:00 AM
Mudhouse Coffee Roasters
1119 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
๐๏ธ RSVP at dominiondogwalking.com/events
Start your Saturday with fresh coffee, wagging tails, and a beautiful stroll through Old Town Alexandria! Hosted by Dominion Dog Walking and Mudhouse Coffee Roasters, Pups and Pour Overs brings together dog lovers for a relaxing morning adventure toward the waterfront. Enjoy special Mudhouse coffee offerings, treat your furry companion to a pup cup, and connect with fellow pet owners along the way. With charming historic streets as the backdrop, this friendly gathering offers a refreshing way to begin the weekend. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome.
Hiroshima Live at The Birchmere

November 15, Sunday ยท 7:30 PM
The Birchmere
3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305
๐๏ธ Tickets via Ticketmaster
Prepare for an extraordinary evening of musical artistry as legendary jazz fusion group Hiroshima takes the stage at The Birchmere. Celebrated for its distinctive blend of contemporary jazz, soulful rhythms, and East-meets-West influences, Hiroshima creates an atmosphere unlike any ordinary concert. From expressive melodies to captivating instrumental performances, the band’s rich musical identity promises a sophisticated and deeply engaging live experience. Music lovers can look forward to a memorable night of timeless sound and remarkable musicianship.
Eyes of the Nile:
The Ultimate Iron Maiden Tribute

November 14, Saturday ยท Doors 7:00 PM | Show 8:00 PM
Tally Ho Theater
20 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176
๐๏ธ Tickets at tallyhotheater.com
Heavy metal thunder takes over Leesburg as Eyes of the Nile delivers an electrifying tribute to the legendary Iron Maiden! Expect soaring vocals, blistering guitar riffs, and the unmistakable energy of classic heavy metal brought to life onstage. From iconic anthems to fan-favorite deep cuts, the band recreates the intensity and musical precision that made Iron Maiden a worldwide phenomenon. Special guests Penntera, a Pantera tribute band, add another explosive dimension to this high-powered evening. Get ready for a night built for true rock and metal fans.
2026 Tree Lighting at Village
at Leesburg

November 14, Saturday ยท 5:00 PM โ 7:00 PM
Village at Leesburg
1602 Village Market Boulevard SE, Leesburg, VA 20175
๐๏ธ Free Public Event
The magic of the holiday season comes alive as Village at Leesburg prepares for its annual Christmas tree lighting celebration! Gather with family and friends for an enchanting evening featuring local performances, face painting, festive entertainment, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. As twilight settles over the Village, anticipation builds for the official tree lighting ceremony beginning at 6:00 PM, followed by the sparkling countdown. It’s a heartwarming celebration that brings the community together to welcome the most wonderful time of the year.
GASP: Great Art, Small Prices Exhibit

November 14, Saturday ยท 1:00 PM โ 3:00 PM (Opening Reception) | Exhibit Runs November 14 โ January 3, 2027
Artists in Middleburg (AIM Gallery)
102 West Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
๐๏ธ Free Public Event
Art becomes a meaningful holiday gift at GASP: Great Art, Small Prices, a special exhibition celebrating the talent and creativity of local artists. Wander through an inspiring collection of original artwork, each priced at $500 or less, and discover beautiful pieces that offer a personal alternative to traditional holiday shopping. Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful present or simply appreciate the beauty of original art, this seasonal exhibition makes creativity more accessible while supporting the artists who enrich Middleburg’s cultural community.
Brentsville District vs. Culpeper County Football Playoff

November 13, Friday ยท 7:00 PM
Culpeper County High School
14240 Achievement Drive, Culpeper, VA 22701
๐๏ธ Tickets via GoFan
Friday night lights shine brighter as the Brentsville District Tigers face the Culpeper County Blue Devils in a thrilling regional playoff showdown! With postseason stakes on the line, every drive, defensive stand, and touchdown carries extra intensity. Fans can expect a spirited evening filled with school pride, competitive football, and the unmistakable atmosphere of high school playoff action. Come support the players as both teams battle for the chance to advance one step closer to championship glory.
TOUCH-A-TRACTOR 2026!

November 14, Saturday ยท 9:00 AM โ 2:00 PM
Greenline Service Corporation
11417 Tidewater Trail, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
๐๏ธ Free Public Event
Big wheels, powerful machines, and hands-on adventures await at TOUCH-A-TRACTOR 2026! This family-friendly celebration invites curious children and grown-ups to explore the exciting world of tractors, agricultural equipment, and outdoor machinery. Climb aboard impressive vehicles, enjoy tractor and UTV rides, and discover attractions including hay wagon rides, farm animals, bounce houses, face painting, and giveaways. With food trucks, local vendors, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos, it’s an energetic community outing for families who love discovering something new.
Fredericksburg Tree Lighting

November 14, Saturday ยท 4:00 PM โ 7:00 PM
Riverfront Park
701 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
๐๏ธ Free Public Event
Downtown Fredericksburg begins its holiday celebrations with an unforgettable evening beside the Rappahannock River! The annual Fredericksburg Tree Lighting transforms Riverfront Park into a festive gathering place filled with live music, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and cheerful children’s activities. Families can enjoy a special visit from Santa before gathering for the highly anticipated tree lighting around 6:45 PM. As the lights illuminate the evening, the celebration captures the warmth, excitement, and togetherness that make the holiday season so special.
True Honey Teas Festival โ Fredericksburg, VA

November 14, Saturday ยท 9:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
Fredericksburg Convention Center
2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
๐๏ธ Tickets Required teafestivaltickets.com
Discover a world of comforting aromas, vibrant flavors, and creative experiences at the True Honey Teas Festival! This immersive celebration invites tea lovers to explore an extraordinary selection of honey-infused tea blends through unlimited tastings, interactive tea-making activities, and thoughtful pairings with chocolate. Enjoy informative seminars, browse a marketplace of local businesses, and soak in the atmosphere of live entertainment and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re a longtime tea enthusiast or simply curious about new flavors, this flavorful festival offers a delightful experience worth savoring.
KATIE WEDGE
Get in Touch! Connect with Katie
