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Summer isn’t over yet. With back-to-school season approaching, August packs in a final burst of outdoor entertainment across Northern Virginia and the surrounding region, from agricultural fairs showcasing livestock and tractor demos to festivals celebrating oysters, bourbon, and watermelons.
County Fairs Take Center Stage
The Fairfax County Summer Carnival and Fair kicks off July 30 through August 2 at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon. Families can expect carnival rides, farm animals, tractor demonstrations, and fair food. Big Truck Night runs Friday, July 31, from 5 to 7 p.m. Parking costs $10 Friday through Sunday.
The Prince William County Fair runs July 31 through August 8 at the fairgrounds in Manassas, promising rides, sights, and classic Americana entertainment.
The Clarke County Fair celebrates its 71st year August 9-15 in Berryville, featuring animal shows and barbecue chicken.
The Arlington County Fair, running August 12-16 at Thomas Jefferson Community Center, draws over 150,000 visitors annually. Admission is free, though some activities carry fees. The nearly 50-year-old event ranks among the largest free fairs on the East Coast.
The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair takes over 62 acres in Gaithersburg August 14-22, with more than 5,000 animals filling over 50 buildings.
The Page Valley Fair runs August 23-29 in Luray against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, while the Shenandoah County Fair closes out the season August 28 through September 5 in Woodstock.
Food and Drink Festivals
Nomini Bay Oyster Festival arrives at Dirt Farm Brewing in Bluemont August 1-2, serving Virginia-grown oysters raw and grilled.
BBQ & Bluegrass pairs American cooking with live music at Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville on August 8.
The Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival hits Fredericksburg Fairgrounds on August 8 from 4 to 9 p.m.
TASTE Leesburg fills downtown with local restaurants, food trucks, wine, and beer on August 8 from 5 to 10 p.m.
The Around The World Cultural Food Festival brings international cuisine, folk performances, and ethnic artisans to Oronoco Bay Park in Alexandria on August 29.
The Watermelon Bash at Great Country Farms in Bluemont runs August 29-30, featuring watermelon-themed games, farm attractions, and a new watermelon carving competition.
Unique Events Round Out the Month
The Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta on August 8 in Reston draws thousands of spectators to watch teams paddle homemade cardboard vessels around the plaza.
One Loudoun Carnival at Uptown brings rides, games, and carnival food to Ashburn August 12-23.
The Leesburg Festival of Kites & Crafts fills Ida Lee Park with flying kites and artisan vendors on August 22.
KidsFest closes out August 29 at Reston Town Center with live music, interactive games, and family entertainment.