Spring has sprung, the flowers are out, farm fields have turned luminous green and Loudoun’s towns, parks, public gardens and horse racing tracks are set for a busy season. So, what’s on the calendar in Loudoun that can keep you and your family entertained in the pre-summer sun? Here we highlight some of the most exciting upcoming spring events.
April 12, Scrape for the Grape
Grapes are part of the lifeblood of Loudoun, but the invasive spotted lanternfly threatens that. On April 12 join hundreds of fellow Loudoun volunteers at various locations throughout the county to scrape lanternfly eggs off trees, plants and vines. Created by Visit Loudoun in partnership with the Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance (LIRA), Loudoun County Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Loudoun Wineries & Winegrowers Association, the community-wide campaign protects Loudoun's vineyards and other crops. Kids who participate are rewarded with free cookies from Mom’s Apple Pie while adults qualify for discounts on tastings, bottles and other purchases at some 19 Loudoun wineries. Register here to Scrape for the Grape!
April 12-13, LoCo Wine Fest, Old Farm Winery at Hartland, Aldie
Old Farm Winery at Hartland staged the inaugural LoCo Wine Fest in September 2024. The event was such a success that instead of waiting a year to host the next one they are rolling it out again on April 12-13. Twelve Loudoun wineries will serve tastings in a refurbished timber barn on the grounds, live bands perform on the front porch of historic Longfield Manor outside and a dozen food trucks and craft vendors are on site selling tasty treats and handmade products. Among wineries serving this year are Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg, Williams Gap Vineyard and 8 Chains North, all fresh from Gold Medal wins at the Virginia Governor’s Cup in Richmond. Lost Rhino Brewing Company will be on hand to serve local ale for beer fans.
April 19, Middleburg Spring Races, Glenwood Park, Middleburg
Glenwood Park in Middleburg hosts what some consider to be the social event of the calendar, as synonymous with the season as dogwoods and daffodils. Join race aficionados and designer-clad fans from Loudoun, DC, Baltimore and beyond as they picnic around the famous Alfred Hunt Steeplechase track, tailgate and cheer on some of the fastest hurdle horses in the world.
April 20, Loudoun Hunt Point to Point, Morven Park, Leesburg
Morven Park Equestrian Center will host the 58th Loudoun Hunt Point to Point April 20. The event features eight flat and hurdle races including the wildly popular Mrs. George C. Everhart Memorial Side Saddle exhibition race. Riders from across the country come to take part, and fans in glamorous spring country attire set up tables and garden tents to enjoy picnics and local craft beverages while cheering on the horses.
April 26-27, 35th Annual Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival
The 35th annual Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival features floral designers, landscapers, garden suppliers and vendors, the latter selling everything from bluebells and cherry blossoms to potted palms and geraniums. While you grab your wagon and stroll through the displays, there’s live music, food stands and fun entertainment for kids.
April 26: Music and Arts Festival, Purcellville
Head to Dillon’s Woods behind Fireman’s Field for this family event with live entertainment on two stages and an art show with face painting and performances in the adjacent Bush Tabernacle roller rink. There are multiple food and drink vendors on site and you can shop for artisan products while soaking in the sun and listening to the live bands.
Save the date: Loudoun’s Spring Farm Tour May 17-18
This annual event gives visitors an opportunity to connect with the farmers, farm animals and makers behind Loudoun’s craft beverage scene.