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Apple festivals, wine festivals, kids’ festivals, seafood festivals, BBQ festivals, brunswick stew festivals, Halloween festivals, art festivals, Thanksgiving festivals…..
Richmond and the entire Commonwealth of Virginia love to celebrate fall with festivals galore – and we’ve got the most comprehensive list of area festivals for 2012 right here on Richmondmom.com. Check out our listing and let us know of others to add. Festivals are in date order to make it easy to find when things are happening. Some are a little driving distance like Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Smith Mountain Lake, and Clarksville – but worth the day trip for lots of family fun.
It’s time to really fall into the new season!
NOTE: Please check websites to verify dates, times, and locations as they may change after event posting.
Ongoing
State Fair of Virginia at the Meadow Event Park next to Kings Dominion. Animals, agriculture, rides, food, music, fine arts, crafts, competitions, and more. The State Fair is ON September 28 – October 2.
Pumpkin Family Fun Weekends starting September 22. 9:30 am – 5:30 pm – Chesterfield Berry Farm. Festivals every weekend where you can take a hayride, pick a pumpkin, go through an 8 acre corn maze, visit the Scary Fun Barn, play paintball, corn cannon, pony rides, wagon train ride, barrel train ride or play in the shelled corn play area, hay tunnel jump, gem mining. Visit/feed the animals, enjoy homemade BBQ, coleslaw and lip smacking beans.There is something to do for everyone at any age at Chesterfield Berry Farm where family fun is our specialty.
Ashland Berry Farm – Pick-your-own pumpkins, hayrides; other seasonal crops – 12607 Old Ridge Road, Beaverdam, VA 23015. Phone: (804) 227-3601, FAX (804) 227-3542. A free hayride takes you away into the country for fields of pumpkins. Garden center specializes in water ponds and aquatics. Landscape/pondscape design and installation. Seasonal Christmas shop, greenhouse, and special events.
The Pumpkin Patch at Gallmeyer Farm – pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, child-sized haybale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, Honey from hives on the farm, prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours 4506 Millers Lane, Richmond, VA 23231.
Chiles Peach Orchard and Farm Market – pumpkins, Pick-your-own apples, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, birthday parties, school tours – 1351 Greenwood Road, Crozet, VA 22932. Phone: 434-823-1583. Alternate Phone: 434-977-0619. Fax: 434-823-1593. Email: [email protected]. Open: See our website for current hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates.
Howl-O-Fest at Kings Dominion – October 6 – October 28, 2012: 10/06/12, 10/07/12, 10/13/12, 10/14/12, 10/20/12, 10/21/12, 10/27/12, 10/28/12. More Spooktacular daytime activities for the little ones than ever before! Most activities on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 noon – 5pm.
Fox Farms Fall Festival – Throughout October – Kiddie Zone, live entertainment, hayrides, farm animals, apples, apple cider, food, games, crafts, and lots of fun.
Kings Dominion Halloween Haunt (adults) – 09/28/12, 09/29/12, 10/05/12, 10/06/12, 10/07/12, 10/12/12, 10/13/12, 10/14/12, 10/19/12, 10/20/12, 10/21/12, 10/26/12, 10/27/12, 10/28/12. To view the operating calendar and park hours visit: Kings Dominion Hours & Directions. Screams of pure panic pierce the night. There’s nowhere you’re safe in the most immersive horror experience in the Mid-Atlantic region — Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion. The bloodcurdling horror and nightmarish madness of Halloween Haunt features ghastly creatures emerging from the darkness, highly-intense and bone-chilling attractions and some of the most hair-raising rides on the planet like the Intimidator 305 and Dominator roller coasters. Halloween Haunt is intended for mature audiences. This event is not recommended for children.
Apple Harvest Celebration in October – It’s the biggest celebration of the year! 2012 Apple Harvest Celebration will be held EVERY weekend in October. EXTENDED HOURS – SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS OPEN 8AM – 7PM (1st 3 weekends in October). Join us for music, food, hayrides, wine tastings, pumpkins, apple picking, apple butter, apple cider, apple cider donuts, apple pie, and all things apple!
August 24 – September 1, 2012
Chesterfield County Fair and Festival – Popular entertainers, rides, food, and fun!
September 1
Harvest Wine Festival – The 7th Annual Harvest Wine Festival! Join us and three other guest wineries to celebrate the fall harvest. Listen to live music, taste wine from four different wineries, attend wine 101 seminar and tours, visit with craft vendors and check out our food vendor. Picnics are always welcome at our events. Tickets: $15.00/person – Time: 11 AM – 5 PM – Band: The Taters. Note: Rain or shine Location: James River Cellar Winery
September 3
Labor Day Wine & Cheese Pairing – Gourmet wine and cheese, learn about wines and specialty cheeses. James River Cellars Winery.
September 6-8
Hartwood Days Festival – Don’t Miss the Stafford County Annual Hartwood Days Festival! Free Family Fun, with something for everyone! Rides, Music, Food, History, Agricultural Competitions, Exhibitors & Vendors!
September 8
Bikes, BBQ & Bluegrass is a family-friendly, community festival to benefit Richmond 2015 that will feature local BBQ, live music by East of Afton and local brews from Starr Hill Brewery.
Butt, Beer & Blues Festival – 4:00 p.m. at Southside Vendors Market. JMW Motorsports Inc. Butts, Beer & Blues Festival is a day of cooking, family fun, fabulous food & your favorite cold beverages. Musical entertainment provided by “Blues Flash” & “Eric Davis” – $15.00 adult entry includes your barbecue, roll, coleslaw & baked beans. Butt Beer & Blues Festival gates open at 4:00 p.m., and music begins at 5:00 p.m.
Annual Kirk Celtic Festival – The Gayton Kirk Presbyterian Church, 11421 Gayton Road, Henrico VA 23238, celebrates its Scottish heritage with their Fifth Annual Kirk Festival. Games for all ages including Jonathan Austin the Magician, Celtic Music, Scottish Dancing & Games Demonstration, Va. Scots Guard Bagpipe and Drum Corp, Arts and Crafts vendors, food — including homemade shortbread! There will be a raffle to win an IPad, an Animal Parade at 3:30 followed by a Blessing of the Animals in our Outdoor Sanctuary.
Celebrate the Art of Latin America: Brazil on September 8 – Free family festival at the VMFA kicks off the fall season with samba music, performances, art projects and more. Watch Brazilian martial arts, learn how to samba and join a parade of Richmond marching bands. Kids and parents can make their own elaborate masks or headdresses, Brazilian tambourines (pandeiros), and a one-of-a-kind ceramic vessel inspired by pre-Columbian art. You can even dress up in full Carnaval regalia for a fun picture in the photo booth.
Charles City County Fair – Enjoy good old-fashioned fun for the entire family featuring live entertainment, carnival rides, contests and tournaments, farm and home exhibits, food and craft booths and a car show.
September 7-9
2012 NASCAR Weekend at the Richmond International Speedway.
September 8-9
South African Food & Wine Festival – Join Grayhaven Winery for a celebration of South African culture, food, wine and music at the South African Food and Wine Festival.
Blackstone Chamber of Commerce Arts and Crafts Festival – 42nd Annual Blackstone Arts and Crafts Festival, FREE Admission, food, entertainment, tractor/car show, Kids Zone, petting zoo, Civil War re-enactment, tours of Schwartz Tavern and Carriage Museum. September 8 and 9.
September 15-16
Shockoe on the Half Shell – Delicious food, fun, and music for the family. 11 am – 5 pm.
September 15
Glen Allen Day 2012 – Parade, arts and crafts, car show, live music and lots of kids activities with animal petting zoo, moonwalks, mountain climbing wall and more. Food and refreshments, free admission and free parking. Meadow Farm Museum Crump Park at 3400 Mountain Road.
Virginia Hops & Harvest Fest on 9/15 – Check out the first annual Virginia Hops & Harvest Festival, celebrating Virginia craft brews, food, music and the outdoors. Featuring music from Dallas Wesley, Sweet Justice, Led Zeppelin tribute band Zoso, Paul Plumeri Blues Band, and The Yardbirds. Expect Virginia craft beers like Devil’s Backbone, Hardywood Park, Bold Rock Hard Cider, Bull & Bones and more. Held at Pocahontas State Park. $12.50 advance, $15 at the gate. Beer tastings not included in cost of admission. Gates open at noon; music begins at 1:30 p.m.
43rd Street Festival of the Arts – Food, music and art come to the streets at Forest Hill and 43rd. Always a good time with lots of original artwork, handmade jewelry, crafts and more. With music from Blueline Highway, Susan Greenbaum and Rachel Leyco.
Heart of Virginia Bike Festival in Hanover – It will feature Century 100 Miles, Metric Century 62 Miles, Short 31 Miles and Family Rides 8 Miles.
The ARTisan Cafe Fall 2012 Edition – Join us at the Plant Zero Arts Complex, Saturday, September 15th to experience the Fall 2012 Edition of the ARTisan Café. Featured in the March 2012 issue of Essence Magazine, we are excited to host this nationally acclaimed affair in Richmond, Virginia. The Fall Edition boasts a carefully curated showcase of over 30 artisans from the Richmond, VA community, as well as an exclusive musical showcase courtesy of the Heavy Hitter DJ Lonnie B.
September 16
Classics on the Green Wine Festival & Antique Car Show – The Classics on the Green Wine Festival & Antique Car Show features over 250 classic European automobiles including Rolls Royce, Bentley Motorcars, MGB, vintage race cars and many more. Located at New Kent Winery, this event also offers tastings from 4 Virginia wineries, plus food and shopping vendors. To purchase tickets, visit www.ClassicsontheGreen.com.
September 20-23
54th Armenian Food Festival, St. James Armenian Church September 20-23. This little church at 834 Pepper Avenue puts on a big food festival with plenty of tasty Armenian specialties. Dig into the hye burger, cheese bouregs and oh-so-tempting phyllo pastries. Plus Armenian dancing, music, cultural market and more.
September 21-23
Field Day of the Past in Manakin Sabot (Rockville) September 21-23 with historical displays, exhibits, re-enactments, tractor and truck pulls, small engine displays, dozens of craft vendors, plenty of food vendors, meat smoking, washing clothes, canning, saw milling, meat smoking and plenty of other demonstrations.
St. Benedict Catholic Church Oktoberfest from September 21-23, 2012. St. Benedict Catholic Church will hold its 8th Annual Oktoberfest with breweries, wineries, authentic German food, German music, German dance, children’s activities and entertainment, as well as the Christkindlmarkt — a unique shopping experience, September 21st through 23rd. This free family event* takes place in the Museum District in the parking lot shared by Benedictine High School and St. Benedict Catholic Church at Belmont, Hanover and Stuart Avenues. *Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Culpeper Fiesta – Sample foods, discover new friends, and dance the night away with ORQUESTA CURARE at this free family event promoting Latino cultural awareness and fun. Check out these salsa kings, and queens! Activities and piñatas for the kids. A short drive for a lot of fun!
54th Armenian Food Festival, St. James Armenian Church September 20-23. This little church at 834 Pepper Avenue puts on a big food festival with plenty of tasty Armenian specialties. Dig into the hye burger, cheese bouregs and oh-so-tempting phyllo pastries. Plus Armenian dancing, music, cultural market and more.
September 22, 2012
Children’s Museum of Richmond Family Fun Festival – Join the Children’s Museum of Richmond and HCA Virginia for Family Fun Fest. It’s at HCA VA West Creek Emergency Center – 12720 Tuckahoe Creek Court. Food, fun, Nutzy the Squirrel, arts, and more! The Mighty Marvel Avengers perform live too.
Smokin’ on the Track BBQ Cook-Off and Festival Shenandoah Speedway US 340 2 miles North – Shenandoah, Virginia 22849 -540.742.4110
Dionysus Wine Festival – Nativity of The Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church, 12326 Spotswood Furnace Rd., Fredricksburg, VA. Advance purchase begins August 21, 2012, by calling 540.548.2665 emailing [email protected].
St. Benedict Catholic Church Oktoberfest from September 21-23, 2012. St. Benedict Catholic Church will hold its 8th Annual Oktoberfest with breweries, wineries, authentic German food, German music, German dance, children’s activities and entertainment, as well as the Christkindlmarkt — a unique shopping experience, September 21st through 23rd. This free family event* takes place in the Museum District in the parking lot shared by Benedictine High School and St. Benedict Catholic Church at Belmont, Hanover and Stuart Avenues. *Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon – Mount Vernon re-creates a lively early-American marketplace with demonstrations, crafts and two stages of entertainment! Free boats cruises take place this weekend only. – September 22-23.
Kidgits Fall Festival – In celebration of the first day of autumn, Virginia Center Commons and the Simon Kidgits Club are hosting a Fall Festival on Saturday, September 22 from 11am-5pm in the Sears Court. Join the fun with activities including pumpkin decorating, a bounce house, games, and much more! Feast on fun fall treats and enter to win great prizes throughout the day!
54th Armenian Food Festival, St. James Armenian Church September 20-23. This little church at 834 Pepper Avenue puts on a big food festival with plenty of tasty Armenian specialties. Dig into the hye burger, cheese bouregs and oh-so-tempting phyllo pastries. Plus Armenian dancing, music, cultural market and more.
September 23, 2012
St. Benedict Catholic Church Oktoberfest from September 21-23, 2012. St. Benedict Catholic Church will hold its 8th Annual Oktoberfest with breweries, wineries, authentic German food, German music, German dance, children’s activities and entertainment, as well as the Christkindlmarkt — a unique shopping experience, September 21st through 23rd. This free family event* takes place in the Museum District in the parking lot shared by Benedictine High School and St. Benedict Catholic Church at Belmont, Hanover and Stuart Avenues. *Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon – Mount Vernon re-creates a lively early-American marketplace with demonstrations, crafts and two stages of entertainment! Free boats cruises take place this weekend only. – September 22-23.
54th Armenian Food Festival, St. James Armenian Church September 20-23. This little church at 834 Pepper Avenue puts on a big food festival with plenty of tasty Armenian specialties. Dig into the hye burger, cheese bouregs and oh-so-tempting phyllo pastries. Plus Armenian dancing, music, cultural market and more.
September 26
Gallery First UU at First Unitarian Universalist Church will host its 47th annual juried fine arts and crafts show and sale. It opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 30. Over 180 local and regional artists and craftspeople will exhibit their works. Prices range from twenty dollars to several thousand dollars. There is no admission charge.
September 27
Gallery First UU at First Unitarian Universalist Church will host its 47th annual juried fine arts and crafts show and sale. It opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 30. Over 180 local and regional artists and craftspeople will exhibit their works. Prices range from twenty dollars to several thousand dollars. There is no admission charge.
September 28 – October 26
Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion – Scary shows, mazes, scare zones and thrilling rides and attractions. Friday nights, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 28. Visit site for details.
September 28
X-Country Festival at Maymont – Maymont provides a spectacular setting for one of the premier running festivals in the country. Participants will run in the shadow of the opulent Maymont Mansion, over tree-lined hills and fields and past wildlife areas filled with bison, deer and other native animals. The beautiful estate allows spectators great visibility and easy access to multiple points along the course. Along with the 5k and 8 Miler divisions for participants of all ages, the festival also features shorter distance events for elementary and middle school kids, as well as events for high school teams. The Festival is organized by the Sports Backers, known for their high quality races. A portion of the proceeds benefits Maymont. For information, call the Sports Backers at 804-285-9495 or register online at www.sportsbackers.org.
Gallery First UU at First Unitarian Universalist Church will host its 47th annual juried fine arts and crafts show and sale. It opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 30. Over 180 local and regional artists and craftspeople will exhibit their works. Prices range from twenty dollars to several thousand dollars. There is no admission charge.
APPLE HARVEST AND APPLE BUTTER MAKING FESTIVAL Drumheller’s Orchard September 28-29. Take the family on a hayride and enjoy a wide selection of apples and cider, country music, moonbounce, face painting, pumpkin patch, corn maze, crafts and food. Kids will love trying their luck with the old-fashioned apple slingshot! Drumheller’s Orchard. Directions: 1130 Drumheller Orchard Lane, Lovingston. 9am-5pm. All ages welcome. Email: [email protected]. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 263-5036.
September 28 – October 7
State Fair of Virginia at the Meadow Event Park next to Kings Dominion. Animals, agriculture, rides, food, music, fine arts, crafts, competitions, and more. The State Fair is ON!
September 29-30
Chiles Orchard – We’re starting a new tradition – celebrate the harvest season with games, music, food, apples, and more. Stay tuned for more information
11th Annual Italian People’s Street Festival – See link for times.
Salisbury Fall Festival – Salisbury Presbyterian Church – 13621 West Salisbury Road Join friends and neighbors for the Annual “SPC Fall Fest.” They will have a fabulous array of fun kids games (bouncy houses, face painting, carnival games, and more), a special appearance by Jonathan the Juggler, and your favorite music playing all day. Food service will include hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, homemade fries, and lots of other goodies. For more information, or to donate your time and talents, contact Rev. Elizabeth McGuire at 794-5311 or [email protected].
APPLE HARVEST AND APPLE BUTTER MAKING FESTIVAL Drumheller’s Orchard September 28-29. Take the family on a hayride and enjoy a wide selection of apples and cider, country music, moonbounce, face painting, pumpkin patch, corn maze, crafts and food. Kids will love trying their luck with the old-fashioned apple slingshot! Drumheller’s Orchard. Directions: 1130 Drumheller Orchard Lane, Lovingston. 9am-5pm. All ages welcome. Email: [email protected]. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 263-5036.
VA PrideFest – September 29 – Celebrate gay pride with VA PrideFest 2012. Music, cocktails, dancing, Mr. Virginia and much more at Kanawha Plaza.
Gallery First UU at First Unitarian Universalist Church will host its 47th annual juried fine arts and crafts show and sale. It opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 30. Over 180 local and regional artists and craftspeople will exhibit their works. Prices range from twenty dollars to several thousand dollars. There is no admission charge.
16TH ANNUAL CHARLOTTESVILLE VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL on September 29. Voices for Animals. Fun, food, vendors, demos, cooking classes, music and more! New events include cooking demonstrations in the big commercial kitchen at The Haven, and presentations at the library! Locally Charlottesville is a proud sponsor. Lee Park . Directions: 201 East Market Street, near Central Library. 11am-4pm. All ages welcome. Contact: Jessica Glendinning. Email: [email protected]. For details, please click this link.
Festival of India -Free admission. Enjoy a taste of Indian Culture in RVA. For Virginians, the Festival of India has become an eagerly anticipated annual event, since it began in 1981. People from all over Virginia flock to the Greater Richmond Convention Center for two fun-filled days of music, dance, food, and culture. The Festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and explore India’s diverse culture and traditions, including authentic regional food, arts, crafts, and entertainment. September 29-30.
October 1-2
October 3
Midlothian Food Festival - The Magnificent Midlothian Food Festival (MMFF) is an annual all-you-can-eat fundraiser-block party at Westchester Commons. In 2012, the MMFF is pleased to welcome back the musical talents of Casper. The MMFF offers our standard excellent fare for your culinary delight: Crab cakes, Beef Tenderloin, Hot Dogs, gourmet Cheese cake, ABC Tent, Wine, Beer and much more.
Carter Mountain Apple Harvest Festival – worth the short drive; apple doughnuts, plenty of food, live music, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and more. Pick your own apples, ride a hay wagon, and stop by the country store!
October 5
Maggie Walker’s School Fall Festival - 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Live music, robot races, a moonwalk, delicious food and lots more… all on the front lawn of Maggie Walker Governor’s School. All the money raised goes straight to the school’s clubs. Bring your friends, family… and your spare change! The school is on the corner of W. Leigh and Lombardy Streets in Richmond.
Carnival of 5 Fires, Gallery 5’s explosive fall festivities, has announced its 2012 schedule. The Carnival of 5 Fires is always a big event, drawing huge crowds for its fire performances, DJs, art shows, concerts and more. October 5, 12, 19, and 27.
October 6-7
On October 6, 2012 Hanover Safe Place will host its 14th Annual Pumpkin Run, a race to end domestic and sexual violence. Hanover Safe Place provides services to victims of domestic and sexual violence in Hanover County and the Town of Ashland.
CreationFest – OCTOBER 6 ONLY – Messiah’s fall festival where we celebrate God’s creation and love in our lives through arts and crafts vendors, a bake sale, brunswick stew sale, music, family fun, and a special pet blessing service. The arts and crafts vendors open to the public at 9 am. The Pet Blessing Service is held by our outside cross at 12:30 pm and lasts about thirty minutes. All pets and their human family members are welcome, for God created them all! The Hanover Humane Society, Lutheran Family Services, and Hanover Habitat for Humanity are invited as our special guests to share about their work. This event also helps support local and global food programs as well as Messiah Lutheran’s social outreach. Learn more: [email protected] or 804-746-7134.
Richmond Cathedral International Food Fest – October 6 only: This event will display the cultural and religious diversity of our metropolitan community through food and drink along with culturally rich entertainment. Admission is a minimum ticket purchase of $5 per person and $10 per family. The admission will provide you with an equal amount of tickets to exchange for food and beverage.
Rose Fest at Lewis Ginter – Rose Garden in full bloom with informal tours, live music and more. Artists from Virginia Opera perform on Saturday, Oct. 6 and The Dance Space offers free tango demonstrations and lessons on Sunday, Oct. 7.
5th Annual Arts on the Grove – 10 am – 4:30 pm. Seventh Street Christian Church. Join us for the 5th Annual Arts on the Grove event! Art vendors and demonstrations, dance, live music and classical concerts, juried art, raffle and prizes,food, face painting and moon bounce. Main prize this year is a week time share at Myrtle Beach.
Dragon Boat Festival with Sportsbackers – October 6.
Oystoberfest 2012 – Fried, grilled and raw oysters are the main event, with brats and other grilled options available. Beer and other refreshments will be available. Live music from The Orderlies, Jonathan & Antonia Vassar and the Speckled Bird and the Northside Ramblers. Kids’ Zone will include a moon-bounce, slides and more.
Second Street Festival – Jackson Ward at 10 a.m. with food, music, vendors, and fun. The hands of time are turned back to the past when 2nd Street was the heart & soul of Richmond’s African American community. Come & hear live music on 4 stages, children’s activities, taste delicious food, shop in the marketplace and dance!
Hogtober 2 – For the second year in a row, Hogtober returns to Church Hill’s Libbie Hill Park for BBQ, brews and music. Featuring the best in Richmond barbecue and more.
October 6-7, 13-14 & 20-21, 2012
Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival Syria. Contact: Graves Mountain Lodge, Inc. 540.923.4231; FAX: 540.923.4312 – E-mail: [email protected].
October 7
Carytown Food & Wine Festival – The Carytown Merchants Association is proud to once again host Carytown Food & Wine Festival “A Taste of Carytown”, Sunday, October 7th from 12p-6p. This year’s Food & Wine Festival will prove to be the best yet as renowned Virginia wineries will once again be back to educate and provide samples of their succulent fermentations along with plenty of great food from local restaurants. Tickets to the event are only $15 in advance and $20 at the gate and include a souvenir wine glass and tasting. This year we will also be offering a $10 designated driver ticket. Children 12 & under get in free with a paid adult. Carytown is home to over 300 locally owned and operated businesses, boutiques, restaurants and specialty retailers.
Harvest Days Festival – Clarksville On The Lake celebrates autumn with pumpkin decorating contests, great food, live entertainment, Fall decorations, arts & crafts, and a live auction. Combine two days of free festivities in beautiful, historic downtown Clarksville with the Clarksville Hydroplane Challenge on Buggs Island Lake/John H. Kerr Reservoir, and your visit to Clarksville provides something for everyone.
October 8-9
Carter Mountain Apple Harvest Festival – worth the short drive; apple doughnuts, plenty of food, live music, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and more. Pick your own apples, ride a hay wagon, and stop by the country store.
October 12-14
FREE Richmond Folk Festival – The Richmond Folk Festival continues celebrating the roots, richness and variety of American culture through music, dance, traditional craft and food. The Richmond Folk Festival features more than 30 performing groups on seven live music stages with continuous music and dance performances, along with a Virginia Folklife demonstration area, children’s activities, a folk arts marketplace, regional and ethnic foods and more.
Carnival of 5 Fires, Gallery 5’s explosive fall festivities, has announced its 2012 schedule. The Carnival of 5 Fires is always a big event, drawing huge crowds for its fire performances, DJs, art shows, concerts and more. October 5, 12, 19, and 27.
October 13
The 6th Annual Step UP for Down Syndrome 5K & Family Festival is Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 8:30AM – Noon. It’s a heart-warming 5K run/walk and family festival. The event celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome in the Greater Richmond & Tri-Cities areas. Enjoy lots of FREE family activities, live music by The Groove Motive, DS Superstars Ceremony, pumpkin patch, fashion show featuring individuals with Down syndrome and more! Register to run, walk or volunteer at www.dsagr.com.
Snag-A-Job Pavilion at Innsbrook 11th Annual Fall Bash – Oysters, BBQ, local wines, and music. Must be 21_ to attend. Call 804.377.3430 for tickets or visit website. Tickets are $70 in advance; $80 at the door.
Fall BRAzaar at Southside Speedway. Festival to benefit Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation in Memory of Denys Musselman.Featuring arts/crafts and unique vendors, health/wellness information,food, children’s activities and so much more! Enetertainment provided by The Taters, The Killing Daylights, Midnight Traffic Jam, Circus Charlie and Age of Excess.
Taste of Brunswick Festival & Cook Off – A short drive for a lot of fun! Arts and crafts, kids rides,Barrel train rides, corn crib, wagon rides,stage coach rides,huge car show,Antique tractor show, live Bluegrass bands all day, World Championship Brunswick Stew cook-off w/ $1,500.00 in prizes, Civil War reenactment, museum display, childrens play on the origin of Brunswick Stew, , Karaoke, Kids championship peddle tractor pull, Funnell cakes and many food vendors. Also appearing,Organ grinder Uncle Sam, and Abraham Lincoln.
The Vintage Home Market Festival – October 13-14. Antinques and Vintage Marketplace. The Vintage Home Marketplace is a gathering of some of the finest antiques and vintage dealers, and carefully juried artisans in the central eastern region, showing and selling their incredible collectibles, decorating accessories, and vintage wares for your home and garden.
Fredericksburg Arts & Craft Festival – he annual Fredericksburg Arts & Crafts Festival will feature the hand-crafted work of artists and crafters that will showcase a wide variety of hand crafted products including: baskets, ceramics, fine art, gourmet food, jewelry, music, candles, paintings, photography, pottery, woodworking and much more. October 13-14.
Louisa Wine Festival – The Louisa Wine Festival features live music, arts and crafts, tastings from Virginia’s best wineries, complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides, fabulous food, cooking with wine demonstrations and wine and cheese pairings.
October 17-20
Virginia Literary Festival – (Donate) Bookended by the popular James River Writers Conference and the elegant Library of Virginia Literary Awards Celebration, the Virginia Literary Festival celebrates Virginia’s rich literary resources with a weeklong series of events. Throughout its colorful history, Virginia has produced significant literary figures. Writers such as Edgar Allan Poe, Rita Dove, Tom Wolfe, Ellen Glasgow, William Styron, Virginius Dabney, and Douglas Southall Freeman have enriched American literature with their poetry, fiction, history, biography, and criticism. Today, Virginia is home to a large, diverse, and ever-growing group of accomplished novelists, nonfiction writers, and poets.
Carnival of 5 Fires, Gallery 5’s explosive fall festivities, has announced its 2012 schedule. The Carnival of 5 Fires is always a big event, drawing huge crowds for its fire performances, DJs, art shows, concerts and more. October 5, 12, 19, and 27.
October 19-20
St. John’s United Church of Christ, 503 Stuart Circle German Fest. Richmond’s first German Church, St. John’s U.C.C., offers traditional German foods, music and shopping at its holiday bazaar. Come Friday night October 19 from 5 – 8 p.m. and Saturday, October 20 from Noon – 2 p.m. Enjoy a stein of beer along with bratwurst and the fixings outside in the Courtyard BierGarten. Live music. (oompah band). Saturday night October 20th features a ‘sitdown’ meal of sauerbraten, spaetzel, red cabbage and apfel kuchen (applecake) accompanied by Die Dorfmusikanten (oompah band). Seatings are at 5 and 7 p.m. Beer and wine are also available.Plenty of parking behind the church. For reservations, call 804.358.9291, Extension 14.
German Fest – St. John’s United Church of Christ 5pm – 8 pm – Richmond’s 1st German Church – annual GERMAN FEST. Oct. 19, Friday evening 5-8 pm and Oct. 20 Saturday 12-2 pm. Music, bratwurst, beer & wine. Brats $5. Oct. 20, Saturday evening 5:00 & 7:00 reserved dinner featuring sauerbraten, spaetzel, red cabbage and more. $15 for dinner.
Bazaar Extraordinaire III from 3pm – 9 pm at Chamberlayne Heights United Methodist Church. Vendors, crafts, bake sale, silent auction, children’s events, blood drive, rescue and K9 dogs, chicken parmesan dinner Friday night, Brunswick stew Saturday night.
October 20-21
Powhatan Festival of the Grape – 300 wineries, 100+ artisans and craftsmen, 10+ regional food vendors, and all day live entertainment. Fun for the family!
German Fest – St. John’s United Church of Christ 5pm – 8 pm – Richmond’s 1st German Church – annual GERMAN FEST. Oct. 19, Friday evening 5-8 pm and Oct. 20 Saturday 12-2 pm. Music, bratwurst, beer & wine. Brats $5. Oct. 20, Saturday evening 5:00 & 7:00 reserved dinner featuring sauerbraten, spaetzel, red cabbage and more. $15 for dinner.
Fall Festival at St. Luke’s UMC from 10am – 3 pm – 4101 Fordham Road, Richmond, VA. Brunswick stew, concessions, yard & bake sales, arts & crafts, silent auction, moon bounce, NY Life Insurance to ID children.
Harvest Festival at Meadow Farm Museum/Crump Park from noon-pm. 3400 Mountain Road, Glen Allen, VA. Hands-on activities and demonstrations depicting typical homemaking and farming tasks. Cider making, candle dipping, cornhusk doll making, corn shelling, blacksmithing, woodworking, and more. Children ages 3-12 can pick a pumpkin from the local pumpkin patch. Stonebrook Moon Shine will perform live. For all ages.
30th annual Midlothian Village Day Festival & Craft Fair is fun for the whole community. Games, inflatables, crafts, local entertainment and more! held Annually the third Saturday in October.
2012 Good Shepherd Music Festival at 7:00 p.m. at Church of the Good Shepherd. One-hour concerts in the heart of Richmond’s Southside. Performers include the Atlantic Chamber Ensemble, members of No BS! Brass Band, Brian Jones Quartet, Hot Seats Mini Band, and various classical chamber music groups. Located at Forest Hill Avenue & West 43rd Street. October 19 – 21. Visit goodshepherdrichmond.org for event details.
Harvest Festival at Meadow Farm – Music and dancing, American Indian activities and re-enactors. Free. Meadow Farm at Crump Park. 804.501.5134
Central Virginia Celtic Festival and Highland Games – Richmond Raceway Complex. The 2012 Central Virginia Highland Games and Celtic Festival will take place on October 20-21 at Richmond International Raceway. Two full days of traditional dance, live music, Highland games competition, clan tents and vendors. Buy tickets now!
Town of Mineral 5th Annual Harvest Festival – There will be music, good food, carnival-style games, face painting, balloons, and fun for the whole family. October 20.
St. Edward-Epiphany Catholic School 5K Eagle Challenge and Fall Festival at 8:00 am. St. Edward-Epiphany Catholic School hosts its 6th Annual 5K Eagle Challenge, sponsored by Old Dominion Insulation (ODI) and SERVPRO. USATF-certified course through Woodmont Subdivision with movie-themed water stops! 5K on-site registration: 7 a.m.; 5K Race: 8 a.m.; Kids Fun Run/Walk: 9 a.m. Afterwards join us for our annual Fall Festival at the school with food, kids’ games, health fair, and used book sale.
October 21, 2012
Patterson Ave Baptist Church Fall Festival from 2:00pm – 5:00pm on Sunday, October 21 at Patterson Avenue Baptist Church 4301 Patterson Avenue, Richmond, VA. It’s a a GREAT FAMILY DAY – moon bounce* Games* Prizes*Face Painting* Pumpkin Decorating* Costume Contest* Pumpkin Patch* Cake Walk* BBQ & Hot Dogs* Photos* Petting Zoo & Pony Rides* Music* Lots of Candy* Trunk or Treat* Crafts* Corn Hole Tournament*Local Fire Department* Live Music* Storytelling. For more information call 804.355.6890 or visit the website at pattersonavenuebaptist.com.
Howl-O-Fest – 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Stony Point Fashion Park. Magic show, pumpkin painting, balloon creations, children’s crafts, Radio Disney, and lots of prizes. Bring your dog for the pet costume contest and cutest dog costume.
2012 Good Shepherd Music Festival at 7:00 p.m. at Church of the Good Shepherd. One-hour concerts in the heart of Richmond’s Southside. Performers include the Atlantic Chamber Ensemble, members of No BS! Brass Band, Brian Jones Quartet, Hot Seats Mini Band, and various classical chamber music groups. Located at Forest Hill Avenue & West 43rd Street. October 19 – 21. Visit goodshepherdrichmond.org for event details.
Celtic Festival and Highland Games – Richmond Raceway Complex. Highland games competitions, gathering of clans and vendors. The two-day festival, which will be fun for the whole family to enjoy, benefits three non-profits: the Cullather Brain Tumor & Quality of Life Center, Children’s Hospital Foundation and Richmond International Raceway Cares.
October 25
TCCC Fall Festival – Thursday, October 25, 2012, 5 – 6pm
October 26
Trunk or Treat at River Road Church, Baptist – 8000 River Road – River Road Church, Baptist, will host its annual Trunk or Treat celebration on Friday, October 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The festivities will be held in the Church’s North Parking Lot, located off of Ridge Road, behind the Church. Friends of River Road Church and the community are invited to attend! In addition to Trunk or Treat’s costumes and candy, there will be a bounce slide, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, games, popcorn, apple cider, s’mores, and more! While there is no cost to attend the event, we do ask that families bring a donation for the Virginia Food Bank.
October 26-27
2012 Oktoberfest at the Showplace in Mechanicsville. The Richmond Oktoberfest offers two nights of genuine Bavarian Oktoberfest entertainment including both, traditional and modern dance music, Bavarian Folk Dancing, and many other surprises. For the kids we have our “Kinder Korner”, which offers supervised games for the kids.
Haunting on the Lake at Twin Lakes – Join us for some wicked good fun at our 2012 Haunting on the Lake Halloween Festival. Activities include a haunted hike and a pumpkin patch with pumpkin painting, bouncy castle, and scary stories by Francis Wood on Friday evening. Wear your costumes!! Fee for the program is $5 per person, children 3 and under Free, $2 Pumpkins for painting and taking home. Various snacks will be on sale at the concession building including popcorn, apple cider, hot chocolate, hot dogs and more. Call the park’s Main Office for details.
Goblins and Goodies at Smith Mountain Lake – 2-4 pm – a short drive for lots of fun. Bring the family to the park to enjoy a Halloween Costume Contest, pumpkin painting, crafts, candy and more. Hayrides are offered throughout the day. Make a bat to take home using a live one as a model. Wear your favorite Halloween costume. Prizes for the most creative and for the best use of recycled material will be awarded for those under six and those six and older. Judging is from 2:30 to 3 p.m., and prizes are awarded at 3:30 p.m. This event is free, but regular parking fees apply. Twin Lakes State Park is near Farmville, about an hour southwest of Richmond. To get there, take U.S. 360 West of Burkeville to Route 613. Then go east on Route 629.
October 26-28
Craftsmen’s Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival – Richmond Raceway Complex with more than 450 talented artistis and craftsmen. Food, fun, prizes, and more.
October 27
Frog Level Fire Department
It’s the Great Pumpkin Palooza! Join us at the Innsbrook Pavilion Saturday, October 27th from 9am-6pm for Halloween fun for the whole family to benefit The Faison School For Autism! The Great Pumpkin 5k Race starts at 9am at The Innsbrook Picnic Area. And admission is free! Want to be a part of it? Register Now!
Frog Level Volunteer Fire Department Fall Festival and Parade – Nothing says Fall like a parade! The parade is filled with fire trucks, horses, community groups, and much more! At the end of the parade there are lots of children’s games, craft vendors, and food including the hometown favorite Brunswick Stew! Activities start at 10 a.m. Parade starts at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the intersection of Rt. 30 & Rt. 301, and ends at the Frog Level Fire Department. (804.994.5559 for questions).
Carnival of 5 Fires, Gallery 5’s explosive fall festivities, has announced its 2012 schedule. The Carnival of 5 Fires is always a big event, drawing huge crowds for its fire performances, DJs, art shows, concerts and more. October 5, 12, 19, and 27.
Virginia Center Commons is hosting its annual Halloween event on Saturday, October 27 from 5:00-8:00 p.m., offering a variety of fun and frightening seasonal festivities for families. The event will be presented by The Hub TV Network, a destination for kids and their families. The Hub will provide fun activities for attendees, giveaways and trick-or-treat bags (while supplies last). Additionally, during the event, little ones can view some of the network’s fun, kid-friendly, spooky-themed episodes of shows including “My Little Pony Friendship is Magic” and “Transformers Rescue Bots.” For more information about the Simon Kidgits Club, visit the website.
Fall Harvest Family Days at Mount Vernon – Enjoy wagon rides, wheat treading, a straw bale maze, and early-American games and music. Kids can make a cornhusk doll and cook over an open fire. October 27-28.
Goochland County Fall Festival – FREE – This annual family event is on Saturday, October 27 in the heart of Goochland. Free Concert by local Michelle Nixon & Drive. Crafts, Halloween Costume Contest, Petting Zoo, Food, Pony Rides, Carnival Games, and much more for the entire family. For more information, please visit www.co.goochland.va.us. At Goochland Sports Complex – (804) 556-5854.
Dia de Los Muertos – October 27th – Family Festival – at The Cultural Arts center at Glen Allen.- – Celebrate Halloween with us a Hispanic way. Saturday from 12 noon to 4 PM
Scare-O-Thon – October 27 @ North Park
Children’s Halloween Fair – October 27 @ Tuckahoe
Spooktacular Halloween Festival – Westchester Commons at Village Green from 1-3 p.m. First 200 kids receive a free pumpkin. Pumpkin decorating, hayrides, games, crafts, treats, and more.
Spooky Saturday on October 27. It is held from 3-7 at Mary Munford Elementary School (211 Westmoreland Avenue, Richmond VA 23226). Spooky Saturday is Mary Munford’s largest community-oriented fundraiser. With Spooky Saturday in it’s 20th year, there will be food and fun for all ages including the hay maze, moon bounce and obstacle course, carnival games, and some new surprises this year. Everyone is welcome to join the fun!
ZooBoo – Virginia Zoo in Norfolk – a short drive for a lot of fun with family fun day 10-3 p.m. and family fun night from 6-9 p.m. Animal pumpkin smashing, costume contests, trick or treat, candy stations, train of terror, haunted hay ride, and costumes and candy.
October 28
Goblins and Gourds Festival at Lewis Ginter – Harvest celebration with music, pumpkin decorating, good green fun, live concert.
Graze on Grace – Occupies two blocks on Grace from 4th to 7th Streets. The public can taste signature dishes from over 25 of Richmond’s finest sustainable restaurants.for only $3 a sample. The event will also offer fresh Virginia produce, meats, cheeses, herbs, artisan breads and confections straight from local organic farms and specialty food providers. Beverages will be provided by several of Virginia’s finest wineries and all local brews provided by Taste the Local program from Brown Distributing.
Spooktacular Organ Concert at Grace & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 8 N. Laurel Street. Members of the American Guild of Organists including Allen Bean, Elizabeth Melcher Davis, David Sinden,and Cheryl Van Ornam present a Spooktacular Organ Concert!
Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 11220 Nuckols Road – Harvest Festival, 3-5:30 p.m. Food, Games, Trunk or Treat, Cake Walk, Vendors & More Bountiful harvest: Bring non-perishable food items & basic home necessities to donate to our Food Pantry to help those less fortunate within our community.
October 29
Fall Festival – October 29 @ Gayton
October 30
Gayton Baptist Church, 13501 North Gayton Road Fall Festival, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Make plans to attend this fun event with your family and friends. Experience a walk through the 10 Plagues to carnival games and bounce houses.
November 2-4
Equine Extravaganza: 3-day horse expo and equine event featuring three full days of clinics, demonstrations, shopping and equestrian fun, including a line up of top trainers in dressage, eventing, jumping, reining, western pleasure, general training, driving and more. Enjoy great family entertainment, educational seminars, breed demonstrations, vendors, shopping, a BLM mustang adoption, wine tasting, an Equestrian College Fair, and more.
Holiday Shopper’s Fair at Science Museum of Virginia. Mark your calendars and come out to the 18th Annual Museum Stores of Richmond Holiday Shopper’s Fair Nov 2nd & 3rd – it’s one stop shopping with fourteen Richmond museums in one location.November 3
13th Annual Brunswick Stew Festival – 11 am to 4 pm at Shockoe Bottom. Visit link for details.
Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili & Craft Festival – The best of everything with plenty of activity, great chili for tasting, musical entertainment, craft vendors, awards and a beautiful lakeside setting. Cooking begins at 10 a.m., tasting at noon, judging at 3 p.m., awards at 3:30 p.m. It’s a short drive but this festival is fabulously fun!
Battery Park Christian Church – 4201 Brook Rd Holiday Bazaar, Craft Show and Bake Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Unique hand crafted items and delicious treats for sale. Finish your holiday buying in one convenient location. Jams & jellies, homemade soups, baked goods. Handcrafted home and fashion accessories including jewelry, knits, handbags, baby items. Pincushions, pressed flowers, pottery, decorations and more!
November 3-4
Harvest Wine Trail Festival – Tour Central Virginia’s Premier Wineries: Cooper, Grayhaven, James River Cellars and Lake Anna! Buy a passport ticket from (www.HOVAwinetrail.com). You will get a souvenir wineglass, tasting at the four Heart of Virginia Wineries and a chance to win amazing prizes upon completing the trail. During this weekend you will get to graze on munchies at each winery, visit with craft vendors, check out special promotions and possibly squeeze in a Barrel Tasting or two. Please note that Heart of Virginia Wine Trail can be completed anytime during normal hours of operation. www.HOVAwinetrail.com.
November apple butter making at Chiles Orchard. Join us for old fashioned apple butter making! As you can see, there are lots of great reasons to visit often over the next few months.
November 4
Virginia Thanksgiving Festival at Berkeley Plantation - Celebrate the 1619 landing of the original colonists at Berkeley Plantation. Join us at the site of the First Official Thanksgiving in America, for a day dedicated to history, food and fun with tours of the 1726 manor house, walks in the colorful autumn gardens and a formal living history program.
Virginia Thanksgiving Festival at Berkeley Plantation, Charles City.
2nd Annual Autumn Bottom Brews & Art Show – Sunday, November 4 from 11 am to 4 pm
November 9-11
American Indian Pow-Wow – The best in American Indian Arts, Crafts, Food, Dance and Entertainment.
November 10-11
Anthem Richmond Marathon on Nov. 10 ONLY – The Suntrust Richmond Marathon is now the Anthem Richmond Marathon – and it’s still the “friendliest” marathon in America. Whether you’re running or cheering, the Richmond Marathon is a party for the whole city.
Chili and Wine Weekend – Wine tasting, chili music and more. 11 am – 5 pm at James River Cellar Winery. November 10-11.
November 16-18
Richmond Tattoo Arts Festival – Flaco Productions, LLC is proud to carry on the tradition of producing one of America’s finest tattoo conventions. We will continue the hard work that Crazy Ace Daniels & Billy Eason started. The Richmond Tattoo Arts Festival will feature a select group of world-class tattoo artists. November 16-18 at Greater Richmond Convention Center.
ASHLAND VINTAGE HOLIDAY MARKET AND BARN SALE at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center located at 500 S. Center St., Ashland, VA, 23005. (November 16th 4pm-8pm and November 17th 10am-6pm.) Holiday show featuring an amazing group of local artists and vintage items. Items to include holiday and home decor, clothing, handbags, jewelry, bath products, specialty gifts and much more! Event website: VintageHolidayMarket.com and BarnYardJunkies.com
November 29 – December 2
The Bizarre Bazaar at the Richmond Raceway Complex. Vendors, exhibits, crafts, food, music, and more.
December 8
Parade of Lights and Colonial Christmas from 6-8 pm – Enjoy the 20th Annual James River Parade of Lights, sponsored by the regional James River Advisory Council. A treasured Richmond tradition, thousands of residents look forward to viewing the procession of boats decorated with holiday lights each year. Spectators will be able to enjoy the parade and experience a colonial Christmas presented by historical interpreters at Henricus Historical Park free-of-charge. Colonial Christmas activities begin at 6:00 p.m. with viewing of boat parade from 7:30-8 p.m.
