Virginia Scottish Games & Festival – The Plains (Loudoun County)

A two-day celebration of Scottish heritage with high‑energy competitions (think caber toss and hammer throw), live bagpipes, dancing, sheep‑herding demos, a car show, and kids’ activities. Leashed dogs welcome. Admission: ~$20/day or $30 for both; free or low-cost for younger children. (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Appaloosa Music Festival – Front Royal

Held over Labor Day weekend at Skyline Ranch, Appaloosa mixes roots, bluegrass, Irish folk, and local music in a laid-back, family‑friendly atmosphere. (Wikipedia)

Labor Day Car Show – City of Fairfax

Showcases over 300 vehicles—from vintage classics to muscle cars. Free admission with optional donations benefiting local charities. Features live music, raffles, and food trucks. (Fun in Fairfax VA)

NOVA Labor Day Picnic – Alexandria (Fort Hunt Park)

A warm, community event with great food, music, bounce castles, face painting, soccer, speeches—and plenty of space to relax. (va-aflcio.org)

Seasonal Adventures & Day Trips

Great Country Farms Corn Maze & Apple Harvest – Bluemont (Sep 1–30)

The whole family can enjoy apple picking, a 12‑acre corn maze, wagon rides, cider pressing, marshmallow roasting, and live music. A full day of autumn fun! (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Auburn Farms Sunflower Festival – Brandy Station

Wander sunflower fields, navigate a 4‑acre maze, sample local crafts and food, and enjoy open‑air activities. Dogs welcome; small admission fee applies. (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Outdoors & Leisure

• Last Dip of the Season: Pool and waterpark season ends over Labor Day—enjoy one final swim at Atlantis, Great Waves, Signal Bay, or local pool parks before they close. (Fun in Fairfax VA, novaparks.com)
• Boating & Kayaking: Burke Lake and NOVA Parks rentals offer a gentle way to cool off and enjoy nature. Many facilities are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible. (Fun in Fairfax VA)
• Stroller-Friendly Hikes & Walks: Burke Lake pathways, Occoquan River trails, and regional parks offer scenic, accessible walks—great for celebrating the end of summer. (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Community Events & Music

• Mykle Lyons Jazz Festival – Reston, Lake Anne Plaza
  A free, outdoor afternoon of jazz, crafts, and food featuring local bands and vendors. Ideal for families. (Fun in Fairfax VA)
• LoCo Musicians Festival – Hillsboro, 868 Estate Winery
  Local music, wine, and food in a beautiful vineyard setting. Tickets ~$35 (kids under 16 free with advance ticket). (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Planning Tips for Families

1. Book ahead: Some events (like farms or festivals) require timed or advance tickets—especially for large groups.
2. Pack smart: Weather can shift quickly—layers, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle go a long way.
3. Spread the fun: Combine a morning festival or farm visit with an afternoon at the pool or casual dinner at a scenic patio.
4. Local markets & patios: Many Fairfax and Reston restaurants open patios and breweries host live music over Labor Day weekend—perfect for unwinding. (Fun in Fairfax VA)

Labor Day weekend in Northern Virginia is a blend of tradition, seasonal spirit, and community energy. Whether you’re tossing horseshoes at the Scottish Games, chasing sunflowers in Brandy Station, floating the lazy river, or soaking up live music by the lake—there’s something for every family to enjoy.

Enjoy this long weekend—and here’s to a smooth, happy return to routine come Tuesday!

Also, check out other fall events happening in our local area!
www.orangehuntliving.com/upcoming-events