Cabin John Kids Run
Oct. 3, 9-10 a.m. | Bethesda, MD
Want your kids to get some exercise? This youth fitness event is for ages 17 and younger gives them the opportunity to run quarter-mile races through Cabin John Regional Park.
Free | mcrrc.org
Art on the Avenue 2026
Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Alexandria, VA
Explore Northern Virginia’s vibrant art community at this outdoor art festival by Del Ray Artisans with the gallery’s “Carnival of Curiosities” exhibit and STEAM activities for kids.
Free | delrayartisans.org
College Park Day
Oct. 3, Noon-6 p.m. | College Park, MD
College Park’s biggest annual event is held at the College Park Aviation Museum and features fun attractions like a helicopter and historic plane fly-in, a tricycle race, family-friendly entertainment and more!
Free | collegeparkday.org
Fall for the Book’s Meet an Author Day
Oct. 10, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Fairfax, VA
The annual Fall for the Book Festival’s event for young audiences lets kids meet and enjoy live readings and workshops from children’s book authors at Paradise Games & Gifts.
Free | fallforthebook.org/october10
Hispanic Heritage Fiesta
Oct. 10, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Alexandria, VA
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, with live performances of traditional folk music, crafts, face painting, food and more.
Free | alexlibraryva.org
Paws in the Park 2026
Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Alexandria, VA
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is celebrating its 80th anniversary at this annual event at Oronoco Bay Park, which features a dog costume contest, adoptable animals, a family fun tent and other fun attractions. All dogs must be leashed.
Free | pawsintheparkva.com
Boo-Fest
Oct. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Alexandria, VA
This Halloween festival at Charles Houston Recreation Center is a scary good time for the whole family, with a costume parade, carnival games, scary stories and more.
Free | apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar
