Fall is just about a week away, which means it’s officially time for seasonal celebrations, like Oktoberfest, autumn fairs and for the seafood lovers out there, crab and oyster festivals.
This year, businesses and organizations throughout Northern Virginia are bringing sea to land with weekend festivals geared toward the whole family. Below, we share where you can check out shucking demonstrations, try your hand at cracking a Maryland blue crab, sip locally brewed beers and more in the coming months.
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Stratford Hall Wine and Oyster Fest
Sept. 21-22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
With on-site food trucks, coastal oysters shucked right in front of you and local artisan booths, how could you not spend your weekend at historic Stratford Hall for its annual festival? Whether you choose to have a girls’ day or bring the whole family along, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, with tours of the grounds, demonstrations from oyster shucking experts and courses that show you how to make your own feast at home. // Stafford Hall: 483 Great House Road, Stratford; $5-$30
Annual Crab Feast 2019
Sept. 21, noon-4 p.m.
Grab your mallet and Old Bay; it’s time for the annual Crab Feast hosted by Creek’s Edge Winery. At this special event, you’ll find an all-you-can-eat crab bar, as well as corn, sausage and potatoes to complement the main course. As you walk, indulge and take in the sites of the winery, and don’t forget to grab your complimentary glass of wine. // Creek’s Edge Winery: 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville; $40-$55
Crabs & Cornhole
Sept. 21, 1-4 p.m.
How does one make indulging in all-you-can-eat crabs and side fare even better? Add a good cause to the mix. This September, come out to Fair Winds for a day of food, drinks and games, all while benefiting the Key Center School, which brings aid and support to students with disabilities in Fairfax County. // Fair Winds Brewing Company: 7000 Newington Road, Lorton; $20-$55
Second Annual Oysterfest at CIRCA
Sept. 21, 1-5 p.m.
While the annual Clarendon Day Street Festival takes place, local businesses will be hosting special events and offerings to get people in the celebratory spirit. For the second year in a row, restaurant CIRCA will host its Oysterfest, featuring unlimited oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, two glasses of Champagne and complimentary tastings of beer and scotch. While this event takes place on the patio, all are welcome to indulge from the regular menu indoors. // CIRCA at Clarendon: 3010 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington; $75
Northside 10 Crabtoberfest
Sept. 29, 1-5 p.m.
Crab season is officially nearing its end, which means Northern Virginians are ready to celebrate. For one day only, switch up your weekend routine by taking football Sunday off the couch and into Northside 10 in Alexandria. This annual event will include steamed crabs, live music, beer tents featuring German fare and, of course, NFL games streamed on the outdoor patio. // Northside 10 Parking Lot: 10 E. Glebe Road, Alexandria; $50
Fall Oysterfest
Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Each season, the staff at Mussel Bar & Grill in Arlington puts together an all-day celebration of oysters found from the Chesapeake Bay and nearby waters. This year, be sure to reserve your table early to indulge in an oysters-only package, or a full spread of oysters, Oktoberfest-themed beer and complimentary bubbly. // Mussel Bar & Grille Arlington: 800 N. Glebe Road, Arlington; $38-$58
OysterFest 12 at Hank’s Oyster Bar, Old Town!
Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
This season marks the 12th annual OysterFest for Alexandria’s well-known Hank’s Oyster Bar. When you purchase a ticket, you’ll be treated to all-you-can-eat oysters on the half shell prepared in a variety of ways, plus a surplus of other underwater delectables, such as popcorn shrimp and calamari. As you indulge, be sure to quench your thirst with premium craft beers, wine and the specialty OysterFest punch. // Hank’s Oyster Bar: 1026 King St., Alexandria; $95
Second Annual Shucktoberfest Beer & Oyster Festival
Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
This October, in the heart of downtown Shirlington Village, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind festival that is sure to attract kids and adults alike. At this year’s event, there will be over 40 craft beer vendors, a surplus of oyster tents (giving you the chance to find a favorite region), local food and a sectioned-off kid zone, full of face paint, balloon art, games and more. // Village at Shirlington: 2700 S. Quincy St., Arlington; $25-$300
Second Annual Ratchet’s Crabaganza
Oct. 26, noon-4 p.m.
For the second year in a row, nonprofit Strength & Honor Motorcycle Club of Virginia will host its Crabaganza in an effort to raise money for families of fallen public safety personnel and veterans. Once you purchase a ticket online, you’ll have access to all-you-can-eat crabs, pairings like cornbread, coleslaw and mac and cheese, outdoor games and live music that will be playing all afternoon. Plus, beer from 6 Bears & A Goat will be available for purchase. // Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg; $50
Third Annual Oyster Fest
Nov. 2, noon-3 p.m.
Whether you’re a fan of raw, fried or Rockefeller oysters, this event has you covered. Over the course of three hours at the winery, you and your family will be able to enjoy the ocean’s tasty crustaceans alongside clam chowder, hushpuppies and mac and cheese. In addition, those 21 or older will receive a complimentary glass of wine to enjoy while listening to the day’s live musical performances. // Creek’s Edge Winery: 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville; $40-$55