ART EXHIBITS
Workhouse Clay International Ceramics Exhibition 2018
Through Oct. 14
Juror Eva Kwong has selected a vast and impressive collection of pieces that fully explore just how versatile the medium of clay can be. Chosen artists present their visions through sculptures, bowls and forms that expand the imagination. // Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton; workhousearts.org
ART EXHIBITS
Visual Magic: The Art of Four Picture Book Illustrators
Through Oct. 26
To be a children’s book illustrator is to deliver crisp, clean artistry that can practically leap off the page—something Jennifer O’Connell, Susan Roth, Carol Schwartz and Janet Stoeke understand quite well. Their works have been made with different forms of media, like gouache, Photoshop and collage. // The Candy Factory: 9419 Battle St., Manassas; center-for-the-arts.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Fall Opening of St. James House
Oct. 1-6, 1-4 p.m.
Originally owned by attorney James Mercer, the St. James House is one of the few 18th-century houses left standing in the area and contains an impressive collection of antique furniture and decor. Be sure to visit during this week-long opening to public tours—it won’t reopen again until spring. // St. James’ House: 1300 Charles St., Fredericksburg; washingtonheritagemuseums.org
ART EXHIBITS
Beginnings & Endings
Oct. 1-28
Potters, sculptors and ceramists’ works embody ideas of or relating to the home: whether it’s the beginnings of life seen in maternity sculptures, or the conclusion of the perfect meal with a delicate dessert plate. // Scope Gallery: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; torpedofactory.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival
Oct. 1-31 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Celebrate fall all month long with seasonal activities and foods—how do pumpkin picking and cider donuts sound? Try out the “Virginia is for Lovers” corn maze, watch pumpkins get launched to harrowing heights or meet the fabulous Pumpkin Princess. // Great Country Farms: 18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont; greatcountryfarms.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Madhaunter’s Madhouse
Oct. 1-Nov. 3
FrightFind.com dubbed this mind-bending maze one of Virginia’s top haunts in 2016. Since then, it’s only gotten creepier and more horrifying for those who dare to venture in. The 55-acre workhouse’s historic past as a correctional facility only adds to the ghostly spectacle. // Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton; workhousearts.org
ART EXHIBITS
Hats Off to Autumn
Oct. 1-Nov. 4
Fashion and art become one at this appropriately-themed exhibit. Salute fall with a series of hats that capture the beauty of the season in Alexandria. // Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; potomacfiberartsgallery.com
ART EXHIBITS
Averill Shepps
Oct. 2-Nov. 4
Enamelist Averill Shepps has been in the industry for 50 years, and is known for using her own unique techniques in her art. Shepps’ degree in geology shines through in the intricate, innovative structures and methods visible in the bowls, plates and decorative pieces she makes. // Enamelists Gallery: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; torpedofactory.org
MUSIC
Matinee Idylls: Gourmet Symphony
Oct. 2, 12:30 p.m.
Prepare for a multisensory experience like no other: The Gourmet Symphony’s concerts are inspired by culinary creations. And if the mere idea makes you hungry, then all the better; lunch will also be served at the start of the concert. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas; hyltoncenter.org
MUSIC
Chicks with Hits featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss
Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m.
Three women, each with formidable and prolific careers in country music, come together for one unforgettable show. Clark, Tillis and Bogguss are touring the U.S. to perform their greatest hits and give new meaning to the term “girl power.” // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; birchmere.com
TOTS
Mickey’s Search Party
Oct. 3-7, Times vary
Mickey Mouse is joined by his newest friends in this Disney on Ice extravaganza, including beloved characters from Coco and Moana, as they embark on a fantastical journey to find their friend Tinker Bell. // EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax; eaglebankarena.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Tape
Oct. 4-6, Times vary
Three high school classmates reconnect not at the average reunion, but in a dingy motel room in Lansing, Michigan. What follows is the revelation of dark secrets and true colors, and the struggle to determine if a shared past means anything in the present. // Gunston Theater Two: 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington; dominionstage.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Nevermore
Oct. 4-28, Times vary
Commemorate October with the godfather of eerie, macabre mystery himself. The life of Edgar Allan Poe is told in musical form, with his own gothic prose and poetry weaved into the lyrics. This show brought the Creative Cauldron Theater its first Helen Hayes Award nomination in 2011. // Creative Cauldron: 410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church; creativecauldron.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Shocktober
Oct. 5-Nov. 4
Nothing says Halloween like a spooky and frightful haunted house. Every weekend throughout October, patrons can experience the haunted legend of Paxton Manor in Leesburg. These attractions, including the new Escape Paxton escape room, are not for the faint of heart, as they are described as PG-13 scary. // Paxton Manor: 601 Catoctin Circle NE, Leesburg; shocktober.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Fireside Ghost Stories at Ben Lomond
Oct. 5, 7-8 p.m.
The Civil War made its grim mark in American history, and Ben Lomond was left very much affected. In fact, some residents claim to see lingering spirits and specters on the grounds, restless or still suffering from battle. Hear more about these eerie and exciting stories by campfire light. // Ben Lomond Historic Site: 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas; pwcgov.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Waterford Fair
Oct. 5-7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Now in its 74th year, this annual fair exhibits the finest wares of over 100 artisans, artists and crafters from across the country. View and touch the creations and talk with the people who made them. Take the time to tour the historic community in Waterford—all funds from this festival support the National Landmark village. // Waterford Foundation: 40222 Fairfax St., Waterford; waterfordfairva.org
FOOD & DRINK
Flavors of Fall
Oct. 5-7, noon-11 p.m.
Reston’s annual fall favorite returns with seasonally-appropriate food to try, like pumpkin cappuccino soup, paired with beers and wines. Jam to live music, sign up for the 5K or play some cornhole. // Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston; restonflavors.com
PERFORMING ARTS
A Tuna Christmas
Oct. 5-13, Times vary
The second in this series of comedic plays is set in the “third-smallest” town in Texas called Tuna, which manages to be both an ode to and a satire of Southern, tiny town living. And in an ambitious twist, the cast of over 20 different characters is played by just two actors. // Vinson Hall Theatre: 1735 Kirby Road, McLean; mcleanplayers.org
ART EXHIBITS
Symmetry
Oct. 5-28
There is a harmonious balance that exists among all things, and can be found in the most minute of details—this is the idea photographers aim to convey in this exhibit. Unique displays with varying dynamics and textures show that symmetry can be found anywhere. // Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; delrayartisans.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Lovers and Executioners
Oct. 5-20, Times vary
Bernard abandons his unwitting wife Julie on a deserted island, and it’s three years until she returns home to find out why—while artfully disguised as his male rival. Romance, betrayal and revenge combine for a humorous adaptation of this 17th-century comedy. // The James Lee Community Center Theater: 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church; providenceplayers.org
ART EXHIBITS
Gossips
Oct. 5-Dec. 2
The painting by heralded American artist Gari Melchers will be on display for the first time in the studio bearing his name. This 1925 masterpiece captures the quiet and quaint life inspired by the small town of Falmouth. // Gari Melchers Home and Studio: 224 Washington St., Falmouth; garimelchers.umw.edu
FOOD & DRINK
Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
Oct. 5-7, 6-9 p.m.
Get a Washingtonian perspective into the 18th-century world of wine, complete with cellar tours, wine tastings and delectable food samples. Then spring forward a few centuries in the company of live blues music along the scenic Potomac River. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
I Want the Wide American Earth: An Asian American Pacific Story
Oct. 6-Dec. 30
Asian American history is often silently interwoven into the country’s timeline. Take an in-depth look at the complex history of Asian Pacific Americans, from their first immigration into the United States to present day. // Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center: 10209 Main St., Fairfax; historicfairfax.org
PETS
Barktoberfest
Oct. 6, 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Friends of Homeless Animals and NOVADog have lined up a catalog of events for pets and their humans. They promise 12 straight hours of fun, including pet-friendly vendors and games. Stick around later in the evening for Yappy Hour and the walk/race GlowDOGGlow. // Loudoun 4H Fairgrounds: 17558 Dry Mill Road, Leesburg; barktoberfest.org
FOOD & DRINK
Spotsylvania Courthouse Village Food Truck Rodeo
Oct. 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Come hungry to feast on the delightful offerings from an entire lot of food trucks, including Beach Fries, Juan More Tacos, Funnel Cake Cafe and many, many more. For the first time ever, this year’s Rodeo will also feature a beer garden from Maltese Brewing Company. // Spotsylvania Courthouse Village: 9019 Old Battlefield Blvd., Spotsylvania; visitspotsy.com
FOOD & DRINK
Vienna Oktoberfest
Oct. 6, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
The traditional German festival goes local for the 11th year in a row. In addition to the staples (beer, wine and delicious food) there is a craft market, children’s activities and a German car show. // Freeman Store and Museum: 131 Church St. NE, Vienna; viennaoktoberfest.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Annual Fall Fest
Oct. 6, noon-6 p.m.
Games, rides, live music: all the essentials for the perfect festival will be there, with even more to boast. Other highlights from this community’s largest event are the fourth annual chili cook-off and a vendor marketplace. // Brambleton Town Center: 42395 Ryan Road, Brambleton; brambleton.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
League of Extraordinary Gentlemen
Oct. 6, 7 p.m.
On Mary Shelley’s 200th birthday, longtime local science educator Dean Howarth will bring Frankenstein to life—or at least the bizarre experiments on which the iconic monster is based. Howarth will be using his own collection of instruments to authenticate the haunting experience. // Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop: 1020 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; washingtonheritagemuseums.org
MUSIC
Lady Antebellum, Darius Rucker & Russell Dickerson
Oct. 6, 7 p.m.
Not one, not two, but three country hit-makers have joined forces for an unforgettable evening. What happens when award-winning acts Lady Antebellum and Darius Rucker hit the road with rapidly-rising star Russell Dickerson? Secure a ticket to this concert to find out. // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow; livenation.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Street Scene
Oct. 6, 8 p.m.; Oct. 7, 2 p.m.
This history-making opera is considered the first American opera, and was also the winner of the first Tony Award for Best Original Score. The story centers on a New York tenement in the middle of a sweltering summer, and the ordinary people who gradually find themselves in not-so-ordinary situations. // George Mason University Center for the Arts Concert Hall: 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax; cfa.gmu.edu
PERFORMING ARTS
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Oct. 6-21, Times vary
Kindhearted but lonely bell ringer, Quasimodo, ventures into the outside world and discovers his own self-worth. The moving tale by Victor Hugo is set to the music of Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. // Thomas Jefferson Community Theater: 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington; thearlingtonplayers.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Clifton Day Festival
Oct. 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
This annual event benefits several local organizations—think artists, artisans, musicians—and the community itself with fun activities and exhibits. The Virginia Railway Express will be adding a special stop into Clifton for this day only. // Historic Town of Clifton; cliftonday.com
PETS
Culpeper Downtown Restaurant Week
Oct. 8-14, 5-9 p.m.
Perfect for date night, family night or maybe even dinner for one, all the fine dining options in downtown Culpeper will have special deals for the week. Establishments involved include The Copper Fish, Flavor on Main and Natraj Indian Cuisine. // Downtown Culpeper: Davis St., Culpeper; culpeperdowntown.com
MUSIC
Noah Kahan
Oct. 8, 7:30 p.m.
When Kahan was just in high school, his songwriting talent earned the attention of songwriters including Adele and Shawn Mendes. His folk-infused pop songs have earned millions of streams on Spotify and led him to an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna; jamminjava.com
ART EXHIBITS
Self-Portrait
Oct. 9-Nov. 4
In this open-submission exhibit, various artists display portraits they feel convey (or challenge) their own identities. // The Art League: 105 N. Union St. Alexandria; theartleague.org
ART EXHIBITS
Julia Dzikiewicz: Pink Hat Protest Paintings
Oct. 10-Nov. 4
Dzikiewicz’s works are unapologetically political, and have focused on topics like global warming and war. This series bravely condemns the racism, misogyny and violence that pervades the U.S. while exalting the female figures who are at the forefront in the fight for a better world. // The Art League: 105 N. Union St. Alexandria; theartleague.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Rooms: A Rock Romance
Oct. 11-Nov. 11, Times vary
DCTheatreScene.com dubs this rock musical a perfect blend of Rent and Spring Awakening. Two rockers fall in love in the backdrop of the 1970s New York City, Glasgow and London punk scenes. // MetroStage: 1201 N. Royal St., Alexandria; metrostage.org
MUSIC
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra
Oct. 12, 8 p.m.
Master clarinetist Eddie Daniels joins the beloved local orchestra in paying homage to “The King of Swing” himself, Benny Goodman. The evening will be led by the orchestra’s artistic director and alto sax Jim Carroll, who has also performed with Maynard Ferguson, Nancy Wilson and Michael Jackson. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas; hyltoncenter.org
MUSIC
ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
Oct. 12, 9 p.m.
ZOSO seeks to capture the electric talent and power of the legendary English rock band in one spectacular show. They are one of the longest-running Led Zeppelin tribute bands, with each member carefully selected to emulate the style and personality of the original group. // The State Theatre: 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church; thestatetheatre.com
PERFORMING ARTS
9 to 5: The Musical
Oct. 12-21, Times vary
This musical adaptation of the 1980 film features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. Three women from different walks of life join forces to punish their sexist, troublesome boss and learn that sometimes revenge can be the perfect foundation for friendship. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas; pwlt.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Culpeper Air Fest
Oct. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aviators-at-heart will love the views of vintage warbirds, aerobatic aircraft, a privately-owned Harrier and more breathtaking planes, some of which will take to the skies. Make sure to bring earplugs, because the event could get noisy. // Culpeper Regional Airport: 12517 Beverly Ford Road, Brandy Station; culpeperairfest.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
City of Fairfax Fall Festival
Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
What began as a small gathering of artisans has grown into a day-long event with over 400 vendors that extend far beyond crafts and artwork. Rest from touring the extensive grounds with offered refreshments and three stages of performers and entertainment from which to choose. // Old Town Historic Fairfax: 3999 University Drive, Fairfax; fairfax.gov
HALLOWEEN
Halloween on the Green
Oct. 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
See what Halloween looks like through the eyes of your 2 to 10 year-old. There’ll be spooky fun for everyone with crafts, storytelling and plenty of treats. DePaul’s Urban Farm will be providing pumpkins for the most creative of carvers and painters. // Town Green: 144 Maple Ave. E, Vienna; viennava.gov
PETS
2018 PetOberfest
Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Now your pet can join in on the Halloween fun. With a guaranteed adorable pet parade and costume contest, photo booths and a touch tank, pets and owners alike can find something to do at PetOberfest. // Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center: 15201 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge; sptcpetoberfest.com
FOOD & DRINK
Fredericksburg Brewfest
Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Get the chance to sample favorite, award-winning beers, as well as a few new drinks to come in 2019. No festival would be complete without good food and music, plus, for the hopeful DIY brewer, The Brew Shop, Fredericksburg Brewing Insiders and the Stafford Brewers Club will offer demonstrations on homebrewing beer. // Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg; fredbrewfest.com
PETS
DogFest DC – Walk n’ Roll
Oct. 13, noon-3 p.m.
Spend the afternoon with friends (both furry and human) for good music, games, food, dog demonstrations and more. Donations benefit the nonprofit Canine Companions for Independence. // Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston; restontowncenter.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Dracula
Oct. 13-Nov. 3, Times vary
The month of Halloween wouldn’t be complete without telling the tale of the world’s most famous vampire. Written by Steven Dietz, the adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic tale blends horror and humor to take the audience from Transylvania straight into the height of Victorian London. // The Little Theatre of Alexandria: 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria; thelittletheatre.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
Revolutionary War Day
Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Witness Colonel George Mason himself prepare for battle against the British empire on his home turf. As the Virginia Militia arm and uniform themselves, learn from on-site historians about what it was like at this moment in American history. // Gunston Hall: 10709 Gunston Road, Mason Neck; gunstonhall.org
MUSIC
Chris Stapleton
Oct. 13, 7 p.m.
Winner of three Grammy Awards this year alone, musician Chris Stapleton takes his distinct country/bluegrass sound on the road. Joining him will be fellow country singer-songwriters Marty Stuart and Brent Cobb. // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow; livenation.com
PETS
Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue 5K: Paws for the Cause
Oct. 14, 8:30 a.m.-noon
SRS is a volunteer organization that rescues shepherd dog breeds to help them find forever homes. Adults and children can register to race. There is also a virtual race option, but you just might want to go and meet the furry friends available for adoption and foster parenting. Of course, all four-legged friends are welcome to come, too. // Barrel Oak Winery: 3623 Grove Lane, Delaplane; 5kforssrdogs.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Northern Virginia CureSearch SuperHeroes Unite!
Oct. 14, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Be a superhero for a day and join the fight against children’s cancer. Win prizes, listen to music, eat delicious food and take part in fun activities before participating in a 1 to 3-mile walk. Donations go towards the nonprofit CureSearch for Children’s Cancer. // The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center: 7924 Tysons Corner Center, Tysons; curesearchevents.org
TOTS
Homeschool Day at Mount Vernon
Oct. 15
Homeschooled students are exclusively invited to this special, day-long event. Visit the many exhibits that children of all learning levels will enjoy, from the magnificent mansion to the animal farm. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
MUSIC
Wynonna & The Big Noise
Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m.
Country superstar Wynonna Judd debuted her band, The Big Noise, in 2011 and with them released an eponymous album, her first in over four years. Expect songs with a personal touch, reflective of the struggles Judd and her family endured in 2012. // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; birchmere.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Middleburg Film Festival
Oct. 18-21
In its five years thus far, Middleburg Film Festival has welcomed high-profile films and celebrities to the Northern Virginia countryside. This year’s sixth edition of the fest will continue to offer Academy Award contenders, foreign films and world premieres to NoVA film fans right in their back yard. // middleburgfilm.org
TOTS
All Things S.T.E.A.M.
Oct. 18, 4:45-5:45 p.m.
This is for all kids who can’t get enough of S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics). Children between kindergarten and fifth grade will participate in fun and educational hands-on activities pertaining to a specific theme each month. // Herndon Fortnightly Library: 768 Center St., Herndon; fairfaxcounty.gov
FOOD & DRINK
Great Pumpkin Beer Dinner
Oct. 18, 7 p.m.
Trade that pumpkin spice latte for a smooth pumpkin beer. Taste fall in a glass with a selection of eight pumpkin beers from around the country, served alongside a five-course dinner packed with autumnal flavors. // Magnolias at the Mill: 198 N. 21st St., Purcellville;
magnoliasmill.com
MUSIC
Stephanie Mills
Oct. 19-20, 7:30 p.m.
Mills skyrocketed to fame when she originated the role of Dorothy in Broadway’s The Wiz, and even made an appearance in NBC’s 2015 live musical adaptation. Since then, she has become an R&B sensation and released 16 studio albums. // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; birchmere.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Eerie Evenings in the Park
Oct. 19-20, 8 p.m.; Oct. 21, 2 p.m.
Director Gregg W. Carter has selected the spookiest of stories, including tales from Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelly, to bring to life in an outdoor performance space. // Sterling Community Center: 120 Enterprise St., Sterling; sterlingplaymakers.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Emilie La Marquise du Chatelet Defends Her Life Tonight
Oct. 19-Nov. 4, Times vary
The 18th-century philosopher, mathematician and physicist far beyond her time resurrects to address the most pressing dichotomy, the one between head and heart. Lauren Gunderson’s play has been shown from Seattle to Oxford in the U.K. // Vienna Theatre Company: 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna; viennatheatrecompany.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Hairspray
Oct. 19-Nov. 10, Times vary
Set in Baltimore in the throes of the Civil Rights movement, plus-sized teen Tracy Turnblad longs to fulfill her lifelong dream of being on The Corny Collins Show. When she gets that chance, big changes are in store for the show, its cast members and the divided society in which she lives. // Reston Community Center: 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston; restonplayers.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Fall Harvest Family Days
Oct. 20-21, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Celebrate fall with the residents of Mount Vernon. Play games and listen to music of the Colonial period, ride in a horse-drawn wagon, weave through a straw bale maze or even take a sightseeing cruise to take in the autumn landscape. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
HALLOWEEN
Superhero Saturday!
Oct. 20, noon-3 p.m.
Learn what it takes to be a full-fledged superhero before you put together your Halloween costume. Design a mask, train at the Superhero Training Station and show off your best pose in the photo booth. // Springfield Town Center: 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield; springfieldtowncenter.com
PETS
Third Annual Howl-O-Ween Paw-ty
Oct. 20, noon-5 p.m.
The name alone already promises fun in store for both you and your cleverly-costumed pooch. Curious canines can meet the county’s K9 unit, while families will enjoy the magic show, obstacle course, face painters and ice cream stall. You may even be tempted to venture into the dog adoption stalls and look for a new family member to take home. // Northern Fauquier Community Park: 4155 Monroe Parkway, Marshall; fauquiercounty.gov
MUSIC
Mae
Oct. 20, 8 p.m.
The Norfolk-born rock band has performed as far as Japan and seen a cast of members, including current E-Street Band saxophonist Jacob Clemons. They are expected to release a new album in 2018—and if you’re curious, “Mae” stands for “Multi-sensory Aesthetic Experience,” the name of a course drummer Jacob Marshall took when he was in college. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna; jamminjava.com
MUSIC
American Roots Revival
Oct. 21, 4-8 p.m.
This concert series is a celebration of the rich history of American music traditions. Capturing the genre of alt-country will be Janet Emma & Seven West with Sally Mae Foster. // Buchanan Hall: 8549 John S. Mosby Highway, Upperville; americanrootsrevival.com
MUSIC
J Balvin
Oct. 21, 8 p.m.
The Colombian reggaeton singer is behind some of the year’s greatest hits, including “Mi Gente” and Cardi B’s “I Like It.” He sings almost entirely in Spanish to introduce more Spanish-language music to a worldwide audience. // EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax; eaglebankarena.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Oct. 25-28, Times vary
Mark Twain’s timeless classic is retold in a musical form. Young and headstrong Huckleberry Finn rescues his enslaved friend Jim, making for a harrowing, humorous and heartwarming tall tale of a voyage. // George Mason University Center for the Arts Concert Hall: 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax; cfa.gmu.edu
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Washington West Film Festival
Oct. 25-29
Founded in 2011, Washington West brings some of the best and brightest new filmmakers to the D.C. area. It has grown exponentially since then, with films produced by Tom Hanks and Martin Scorsese under its belt and welcoming celebrity guests like Robert Duvall and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. // Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston; wwfilmfest.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Shrek the Musical
Oct. 26-Nov. 4, Times vary
Main Street Theater presents their take on the DreamWorks film-turned-musical about surly ogre Shrek, who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime and comes to learn about the value of friendship and love. // Franklin Park Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville; mainstreettheaterproductions.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Zombie Escape
Oct. 26, 6:30-9 p.m.
It’s a zombie apocalypse, and Alexandria has fallen. You and your friends have volunteered to go on a supply run to keep your group alive, but at high risk. Solve mind-bending obstacles and race against time to save everyone’s lives, and your own. // Carlyle House Historic Park: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria; novaparks.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
The Annandale Parade
Oct. 27, 10 a.m.-noon
This 68-year-old tradition has all the charm of a small-town parade. From clowns to book characters, marching bands to international dancers, take in the sights and sounds of the Annandale community. Kids are more than welcome to come in their Halloween costumes, too. // 7000 Columbia Pike, Annandale; annandalechamber.com
HALLOWEEN
Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon
Oct. 27, 3:30-6:30 p.m.
Halloween at Mount Vernon is filled with spooky, historical fun. Special scavenger hunts, wagon rides and holiday crafts are just some of the activities little ones will enjoy. Children in costume can also participate in a parade around the mansion. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Brambleton’s Zombie Run
Oct. 27, 5:30-9 p.m.
Have a frightfully good time getting your exercise in while also running from brain-hungry zombies. Or, if you prefer, sign up to be one of the undead yourself. Proceeds from this event will go towards the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia. // Brambleton Town Center: 42395 Ryan Road #100, Brambleton; brambleton.com
FOOD & DRINK
Diwali Celebration
Oct. 27, 5-8 p.m.
Diwali is a harvest festival in India also known as a festival of lights, both literal and the metaphorical “inner light” in all of us. Traditional Indian meals will be served, as well as antipasto and cheese platters. A bonfire and fireworks show will cap off the illuminating night. // Narmada Winery: 43 Narmada Lane, Amissville; narmadawinery.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
Spirits of Liberia
Oct. 27, 6 p.m., 7 p.m., & 8 p.m.
Spirits both benign and belligerent are bound to dwell within the walls of so historic a landmark. Come for an evening of stories ranging from silly to spooky at the plantation sometimes referred to as the “Death House.” // Liberia Plantation: 8601 Portner Ave., Manassas; visitmanassas.org
HALLOWEEN
Halloween Carnival
Oct. 27, 6-8:30 p.m.
With carnival games, a moon bounce, a haunted house and loads of candy, what takes this carnival a level above? How about a live reptile show, featuring some of the creepiest and spookiest creatures found in nature? // Falls Church Community Center: 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church; fallschurchva.gov
HALLOWEEN
Town Center Trick-or-Treat
Oct. 28, noon-2 p.m.
Take your trick-or-treating excursions out of the neighborhood and into a shopping center, where there will also be crafts, balloon art and hay rides. Hurry over before all the candy runs out. // Brambleton Town Center: 42395 Ryan Road, Brambleton; brambleton.com
HALLOWEEN
Trick-or-Treating
Oct. 31, 5-7 p.m.
Kids will love the abundance of candy, games and crafts—you’ll love that it’s all free. Spend All Hallow’s Eve at one of Alexandria’s most haunted dwellings, which is also hosting a number of other Halloween-themed events. // Carlyle House Historic Park: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria; novaparks.com