2012 Fall festivals

Fall is here and as a result there are numerous festivals celebrating the season (Photo Courtesy of Microsoft).

There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of fall than by visiting some of the fall festivals taking place in the Fairfax area. Be sure to visit some of these local festivals this autumn to really get in the spirit of the season.

1. Harvest Moon Café: Stay on campus to enjoy this spooky event. George Mason University’s own literary magazine Volition will be hosting a night of open-mic performances, as well as performances by two local bands. While you’re there, take the opportunity to star gaze in the observatory, and enjoy some free snacks.
   When: Tuesday, Oct. 30 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
   Where: Research I, under the observatory
   Cost: Free!
   More information can be found at WGMU Radio’s website.  
    
2. Fairfax Fall Festival: Take a walk down to Old Town Fairfax this Saturday to enjoy this local fall marketplace. This year the festival will present over 400 vendors of arts, crafts and gourmet food, as well as live entertainment and a carnival.
   When: Saturday, Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
   Where: Historic downtown Fairfax
   Cost: Free!
   More information can be found through the City of Fairfax's website. 
    
3. Cox Farms Fall Festival: Visit Cox Farms this year for some good old country fun! Cox Farm boasts hayrides, cornfield mazes, a farm animal petting zoo, fresh apple cider to enjoy and a seasonal market place. With a weekday ticket costing only nine dollars, you are sure to get your money’s worth.
   When: Now through Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
   Where: 15621 Braddock Road, Centreville, Virginia
   Cost: $9 to $17
    
4. Cox Farms Field of Fears: Revisit Cox Farms at night to see a darker side of the farm! Be prepared to scream when running through the Cornightmare maze, taking a ride on the Dark Side Hayride or participating in the Firegrounds Fear Games. For those who aren’t up to the fright, relax by the giant bonfire and enjoy some of the refreshments at Last Chance Eats. No matter what you choose to do at the Field of Fears, be prepared for a truly frightful night.
   When: Now through Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
   Where: 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA 20120
   Cost: $13 to $19
    
5. St. Charles Oktoberfest: In the heart of the Arlington metro area, come enjoy food, music, entertainment, and activities. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a family friendly environment near Washington D.C.. Coffee and donuts will be available to early shoppers of a yard sale kick off event along with a silent auction and, later, check out the haunted house!
   When: Saturday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
   Where: 3299 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Va 22201
   Cost: Free!