By Chris Colgan | Colgan Team | Real Nova Network
November in Northern Virginia hits differently.
The leaves are still glowing, the nights are cool but not freezing, and every weekend offers something to explore — from food festivals and light shows to historic parades and early holiday markets.
If you’re looking to make the most of the season, here are eight can’t-miss November events across NoVA — all hand-picked by someone who’s been living (and loving) this region his entire life.
1. Northern Virginia Holiday Market
Dulles Expo Center, Chantilly
November 7 – 9 | $9 Admission
Website: https://www.emgshows.com/anvcm
Kick off your holiday shopping early at one of the biggest markets on the East Coast. More than 300 artists and specialty vendors take over the Dulles Expo Center, selling handcrafted décor, art, jewelry, and gourmet treats.
If you love local craft fairs but hate the cold, this indoor market is the move.
Pro tip: Hit it early Friday morning to avoid crowds, then grab lunch at Ono Brew Co. or Sweetwater Tavern just down Route 28.
2. Fairfax County Kimchi Festival
Fairfax County Government Center
November 8 | Free Admission
Website: https://kkimchiwashingtondc.org/
One of Fairfax’s most energetic and flavorful events. Expect sizzling BBQ stands, traditional drum performances, and K-pop music echoing across the plaza. It’s part food festival, part cultural celebration, and completely worth your Saturday.
Pro tip: Bring cash — small food booths move faster that way, and you’ll want to try everything.
3. Barrel Oak Winery Harvest Festival
Delaplane | Fauquier County
November 9 – 10 | $15 Tasting Fee
Website: https://barreloak.com
Few places do fall like Fauquier County. Barrel Oak’s harvest weekend is two days of live music, food trucks, and local wine with unbeatable Blue Ridge views.
It’s that laid-back country vibe only 45 minutes from the city.
Pro tip: Go Sunday for smaller crowds and a quieter atmosphere.
4. Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
November 11 | Free for Active & Retired Military
Website: https://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/events/mount-vernon-salutes-veterans
Every Veterans Day, Mount Vernon hosts a ceremony with patriotic music, honor guards, and a floral tribute at Washington’s tomb. It’s powerful, meaningful, and open to the public.
Pro tip: Arrive early for parking and stick around for lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn — their colonial-style turkey sandwich is a local favorite.
5. City of Fairfax Holiday Craft Show
Fairfax High School
November 15 – 16 | $5 Admission
Website: https://www.fairfaxva.gov/Events-directory/Parks-and-Recreation/Special-Events/Holiday-Craft-Show
This 39-year Fairfax tradition brings together 200+ local and national artisans offering handmade gifts, pottery, and décor. It’s the perfect mix of holiday shopping and hometown charm.
Pro tip: Go Saturday morning before the rush and grab breakfast at Epi’s Greek Diner — trust me on the pancakes.
6. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Winter Walk of Lights
Vienna, VA
Opens November 15 (Nightly through Early January) | Timed Entry Required
Website: https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights
This is the definition of Northern Virginia holiday magic. Wander through more than half a million twinkling lights woven through wooded trails and reflective ponds.
I’ve been coming here since I was a kid — it’s one of those places that never loses its magic.
Pro tip: Book ahead online and go right after sunset for the best colors and photos.
7. Leesburg Colonial Christmas at Morven Park
Leesburg, VA
November 30 – December 1 | $15 Adults | $10 Kids
Website: https://www.morvenpark.org/
Step back in time with candlelit mansion tours, 19th-century music, and carriage rides through Morven Park’s historic grounds.
If you’re into history or old-world holiday vibes, this one feels like a movie set.
Pro tip: Buy tickets early — it’s small, intimate, and fills fast.
8. Reston Town Center Tree Lighting & Sing-Along
Reston Town Center Pavilion
November 29 | Free
Website: https://www.restontowncenter.com/events/
Reston closes out the month with one of the best community traditions in NoVA — a massive tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, and a town-wide sing-along that feels straight out of a Hallmark film.
Pro tip: Skip the parking headache and take the Silver Line Metro to Reston Station, then stroll over to the Pavilion.
Final Thoughts
November is that underrated month when Northern Virginia really shines. The crowds thin out, the air turns crisp, and everywhere you go — from Fairfax to Leesburg — feels alive with community and color. Whether you’re out wine tasting in Fauquier, chasing lights in Vienna, or grabbing a snack at the Kimchi Festival, every corner of NoVA has a story to tell.
This is the best time to explore where you live — or where you want to live. You’ll see why so many people fall in love with Northern Virginia this time of year.
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Posted by Chris Colgan on
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