The seeds of Loudoun’s agricultural heritage provide a bounty of experiences that really make a visit here memorable. Whether you love craft beer and corn mazes or artisan fairs and autumnal foliage, Loudoun has something for everyone to enjoy this fall. Since these perfect conditions last just a few short months, we like to take advantage of every autumnal activity possible.
Fall Harvest and Pick-Your-Own in Loudoun
Apple Harvest at Great Country Farms
Great Country Farms' apple orchard is open for apple picking and freshly pressed apple cider tasting. Hop on the wagon to the orchard to pick ripe, delectable apples every day until the end of September. Arrive by 9:00 a.m. any day of the week, last wagon ride sets off at 4:00 p.m. On weekends, starting at 11 a.m., apple picking is accompanied by live music, marshmallow roasting, pig racing and cider pressing demos. It’s everything apple and if apples are not your choice of harvest, the pumpkin patch will open October 1. New to the pumpkin patch this year is the Dino Fest where you can witness live dino shows and encounter a variety of dino species October 31 through November 24. Be sure to catch a quick photo-op before they go extinct. Make your fall adventure your own!
Leesburg Animal Park Pumpkin Village and Fall Festival
Leesburg Animal Park has its annual Pumpkin Village and Fall Festival starting September 21 until November 5. This exciting festival happens at the beautiful animal park facility in Leesburg and features giant hill slides, wagon rides, pedal carts, moon bounces, petting zoos, pony rides and so much more! Come on the weekends for live music entertainment, face painting and fresh harvest treats. After filling them up with sweet stuff, take the kids on an adventure on the kiddie zipline.
Temple Hall Farm Pumpkin Patch
Celebrate harvest season at Temple Hall Farms' pumpkin patch and sunflower fields starting at the end of September though the month of October. Bring the whole family to ride the wagon through this 286-acre farm, pick out the best pumpkin you can find and pick flowers to accompany your holiday decor. Kids will be able to bounce on the giant jumping pillows, participate in the farm animal scavenger hunt and play around in the corn box – filled with corn, not sand. A portion of the proceeds of pick-your-own sunflowers benefits apprenticeship programs for neurodivergent individuals at Legacy Farms, which is also on site.
Fall Fairs & Festivals in Loudoun
LoCo Wine Festival
Get ready to raise a glass! Old Farm Winery at Hartland is bringing the community together to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Loudoun's wine region on September 14 and 15. Immerse yourself in a wine lover's paradise with tastings from a variety of local wineries and the opportunity to learn from expert winemakers who make Virginia's wine scene so exceptional. Although not included with admission, food trucks and artisan vendors will be there to add even more flavor to your day. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics of Loudoun County; tickets are only valid for one day.
Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials
Spectators are welcome to the worldwide equestrian event of the year at Morven Park this October. People who attend this event will witness a show like no other at this internationally recognized horse competition. Watch horses show off in sophisticated dressage, jump over obstacles and complete cross-country courses in this triathlon-style race coined "eventing." To get up close and personal, reserve a tailgate spot in the middle of the cross-country field for prime viewing.
80th Annual Waterford Fair
The Waterford Fair is truly a fair like no other, celebrating its fine heritage, this historic festival in Loudoun brings thousands every year to get a glimpse into what the Village of Waterford is really like. Starting October 4 until October 6, take advantage of the opportunity to tour historic properties, watch artisans demonstrate traditional craftsmanship, witness the history of vintage barns that have been transformed over the years into galleries for paintings and other vendors. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s fair with live entertainment, children’s activities and more.
SterlingFest 2024
Melt into the crowds at the Sterling Community Center on October 12 for Sterling Fest 2024 and explore the streets lined with booths featuring local businesses and artisans. Sample fine foods from a variety of local restaurants and visit the Beer Garden for a pint of locally brewed beer or a lovely glass of Virginia’s finest wine. While you relax, the kids will be able to enjoy games, obstacle courses and crafts.
Loudoun Fall Farm Tour 2024
The Loudoun Fall Farm Tour is back this year with more than 30 participating farms showcasing what it means to be Loudoun made, Loudoun grown. The tour takes place October 19 and October 20 and features a diverse array of farms that produce the finest Loudoun product, including honey, mushrooms, traditional veggies, craft beverage and dairy products. Attendees will also encounter cuddly animals, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, apple presses and other seasonal activities.
