Found 5 blog entries tagged as family activities.

If you've ever driven past the National Botanic Garden in Chantilly and wondered what's behind those gates, here's your chance to find out — in costume.

On October 25-26, the garden is hosting Cosplay Enchantment in the Gardens, and honestly? It's about time. This is the first cosplay event at the 250-acre property, which sits tucked away on Peter and Baela Knop's private family farm. The Knops have spent years designing this place with an ambitious goal: fulfilling George Washington's dream of a National Botanic Garden — something largely unrealized on the National Mall due to development, but now possible here in the Virginia suburbs.

Here's the thing — the garden only opens once a month from April to November for special events, so access is…

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Hey NoVA!

Mark your calendars—October 9–13, Reston Town Center transforms into Northern Virginia's premier film destination for the 14th Annual Washington West Film Festival. And folks, this year's lineup is incredible.

We're talking 38 films across LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, Reston Town Center Pavilion, and Reston Community Center. Documentaries. Shorts. Features. Anniversary screenings. Something for everyone.

The Can't-Miss Highlights:

Olympic legend Edwin Moses presenting Moses 13 – Steps on October 11th. The gripping documentary In Waves and War that same night. Then buckle up for the 30th anniversary screening of Apollo 13 on October 12th with a panel featuring Senator Bill Nelson—yes, the astronaut himself!

Bringing the family? There's a…

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Three Hidden Fall Gems: Your Northern Virginia Escape Routes

There's something magical about October mornings when the mist rises from the Potomac and every maple seems to be showing off. You know that feeling—when you're scrolling through social media, seeing those perfect fall photos, and thinking "I need to get out there before all the leaves are gone"?

Here's the secret I've learned after two decades of exploring every back road from Fairfax to Frederick: the most enchanting fall destinations aren't always the ones everyone talks about. Sometimes the best escapes are the ones hiding right under our noses.

Leesburg: Wine Country Meets Colonial Charm

I'll be honest—most people drive right through Leesburg on their way to Harpers Ferry…

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Fall Magic at Great Country Farms: Your NoVA Pumpkin Paradise

Northern Virginia families, Chris Colgan here with one of my absolute favorite fall traditions happening right now through October 31st at Great Country Farms.

This 400-acre working farm in Bluemont hosts their popular fall festival daily from September 19-October 31, 2025. Nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this place is pure autumn gold, folks.

What Makes This Special

 

What sets this place apart? You'll find wagon rides, a 2,800 sq. foot Jumping Pillow, challenging mazes, giant slides, friendly farm animals, catch and release fishing, and rope swings. The kids go absolutely crazy for the classic corn bin and antique tractors, while parents can actually relax…

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Fall is coming up fast in Northern Virginia, and with it, a lot of fun festivities and places to see. There are events all over the region, making it difficult to decide what’s really worth checking out. It’s still early in September, so many of these events start now and continue into the true spooky season of October, or begin then and are events worth keeping in the back of your mind. This is a list of autumn must-visits that tackle everything from festivals, haunted houses, to natural beauties and everything in between. 

 

 

Attend the Cox Farms Fall Festival 

"Cox Farm Bridge" by rittyrats is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Hayrides, waterslides, petting zoos— this festival is perfect for family weekend outings. There’s a variety of…

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