Autumn Festivals in Prince William

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By Haley Huchler

Fall is festival season, or so it seems in Northern Virginia. Although the summer is too hot and the winter too cold, autumn is the perfect time of year with mild weather for an outdoor celebration. The fresh, crisp air is the ideal backdrop for events filled with warm, cozy drinks and tasty snacks, where communities can come together and bond over fun events and gatherings. It’s no wonder why the region is buzzing with activity at this time of year. Our story is proof that there’s no shortage of exciting fall events and traditions to participate in, but here’s a deeper dive into some of the top fall festivals our community can savor this season.

Prince William County Hot Air Balloon Festival

It’s not a bird, it’s not a plane. It’s a hot air balloon. The Prince William County Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to the Prince William County Fairgrounds this October. On October 15th and 16th, the gates will open at 3pm for visitors to have the chance to ride in a balloon-driven basket in the sky. It’s an event you can’t miss.

Hot air balloons will not be the only delight of the festival for visitors. The children’s area will feature games and attractions, including trains, bounce houses, rock walls and a zip line. A DJ and live music performances from various artists will provide the soundtrack for the day. Craft vendor booths and retailers are the perfect way to shop and support local businesses. And of course there will be tons of food vendors with many different cuisine options. But the hot air balloons are the clear stars of the show, so be sure to sign up for a trip you’ll remember forever.

Stay for the Grand Finale after 8pm and enjoy the hot air balloon light and laser show, where visitors will witness all the balloons lit up in unison and accompanied by music. Bring your blankets and chairs to claim your own viewing spot!

The Prince William County Fairgrounds is located at 10624 Dumfries Road in Manassas. Tickets are available at freshtix.com/events/princeballoons.

Haymarket Day

It’s Haymarket town’s biggest event of the year, don’t miss it! The Haymarket Day Parade is the epitome of small town parade perfection and this year will feature a spooky theme. Take to the streets to see local schools, marching bands, fire trucks, cars, entertainers of all kinds and law enforcement pass by, all led by this year’s Grand Marshal.

But that’s not all the day has in store for visitors. Haymarket Day features dozens of vendors and entertainers, as well as plenty of culinary options. Enjoy performances on two stages with beer gardens located near each.

Now in its 33rd year, this event is a well-oiled machine ready to deliver a great time for everyone. More than 25,000 spectators and 200 vendors will be there for this day of joyful community celebration. To be one of them, arrive at the start of the parade at 10 a.m. along Washington Street. Parking is available in the VDOT Commuter Lot at Heathcote and 15 and at Tyler Elementary. Both locations will have a free shuttle service until 5 p.m.

Ghosts and Spirits Halloween Celebration

Occoquan hosts the annual Arts and Crafts Show that attracts 10,000 visitors annually, so it’s no surprise that the town also knows how to throw a great Halloween celebration. It’s the place to be from October 28 to 30.

Spirits and Spirits, which promises a “creepy and scary” time, includes a range of activities including a trivia night, a haunted maze, a costume parade and more. Adults can enjoy the dive bar serving dance music, bonfires and specialty spirits.

Come for a screening of Halloween themed movies (PG-13) and a chance to vote for the best decorations, lanterns and costumes at businesses in town. Top it all off with a ghost tour that’s sure to knock your socks off, as Occoquan claims that almost every house, pub and business in town is home to at least one undead resident. Occoquan is a town that really knows how to get into the holiday spirit.

Barktober Fall Pet Festival

Looking for a fun way to celebrate the season with your pet? Join A Pup’s Valley for their fourth Barktober Fall Pet Festival, a festival for their two- and four-legged friends. This costume party will include photo ops for you and your favorite furry friends, prizes for the best pet costumes, and prizes for the best dressed humans too! Attendees will be eligible for giveaways, browse various pet vendors and enjoy some apple cider and seasonal treats.

RSVP on their website and enter to win a free spa package from A Pup’s Valley. visit apupsvalley.com.

Haley Huchler is a regular writer for Prince William Living.

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