There’s no season that shows off the DMV quite like fall. The leaves turn, the farm stands fill up with pumpkins, and whole neighborhoods transform into something out of a movie set. Whether you’re wrangling little ones toward a pumpkin patch, hunting down the scariest haunt in the region, or just looking for a reason to be outside on a crisp October afternoon, we’ve pulled together the best of the season, plus a look at the local streets that go absolutely all-out for Halloween.
Before you go: Dates and hours below are accurate as of publication, but farms and events do adjust their schedules (and weekend timed-entry tickets sell out). Always confirm on each event’s official page before you head out.
Family-Friendly Fall Fun
Cox Farms Fall Festival — Centreville, VA
When: September 19 – November 8, 2026 · daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA 20120
Cost: Ticketed (timed-entry; buy online in advance)
A Northern Virginia rite of passage — giant slides, hayrides, farm animals, apple cider, and acres of fall fun that delight toddlers and grade-schoolers alike. It’s a full-day outing and weekends draw crowds, so arrive early. Click here to learn more →
Butler’s Orchard Pumpkin Festival — Germantown, MD
When: Weekends (plus Columbus Day, Oct. 12) through November 1, 2026 · Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–6 p.m., weekdays Wed–Fri 1–6 p.m.
Where: 22222 Davis Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20876
Cost: From $12–$25/person; reserve ahead (weekends sell out)
Now in its 46th year, Butler’s is the quintessential Maryland pumpkin-patch day: pick-your-own pumpkins, a hay maze, farm animals, pony rides, and a market stocked with cider and pie. Reserve a weekend slot in advance. Click here to learn more →
Boo at the Zoo — Smithsonian’s National Zoo, DC
When: October 16–18, 2026 · 6–8:30 p.m. (members enter at 5)
Where: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
Cost: Ticketed (~$35 general; members less)
A beloved DC tradition and a gentle, not-too-scary option for younger kids: costumed trick-or-treating along a lantern-lit zoo path, animal encounters, and treat stations throughout the grounds. Tickets are timed and sell out, so grab them early. Click here to learn more →
After Dark: For the Brave
Fields of Fear at Cox Farms — Centreville, VA
When: Fridays & Saturdays, Sept. 25 – Nov. 7, 2026 (plus Sun. Oct. 11) · 7:30–11 p.m.
Where: 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA 20120
Cost: Ticketed online (limited; best for teens and adults)
When the sun goes down, Cox Farms becomes something else entirely. Fields of Fear spreads more than 20 acres of scares across four attractions — the Cornightmare, the Dark Side Hayride, the Firegrounds, and the Forest. This one earns its reputation, so leave the little ones at home. Click here to learn more →
Night of the Living Zoo — National Zoo, DC (21+)
When: October 23, 2026 · 7–11 p.m.
Where: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
Cost: Ticketed, 21+ only (ID required)
The grown-ups’ answer to Boo at the Zoo: a 21-and-over evening with themed cocktails, DJs and entertainment, and the zoo after hours. A fun, low-effort costume night out with friends. Click here to learn more →
Ghost & Graveyard Tours — Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Evenings throughout October (times vary by operator)
Where: Old Town Alexandria (most tours depart near King Street)
Cost: Ticketed; reservations recommended
For atmospheric chills rather than chainsaws, a lantern-lit walking tour through one of the country’s most historic (and reportedly most haunted) old towns is hard to beat. A great date-night or out-of-town-guests outing. Click here to learn more →
A DMV Original: The 17th Street High Heel Race
When: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 · race around 9 p.m. (crowds gather from ~6)
Where: 17th Street NW between P & R Streets (Dupont Circle), DC
Cost: Free to watch
An only-in-DC institution for nearly four decades: drag queens in extravagant costumes sprint down 17th Street in sky-high heels while thousands cheer them on. Arrive early for a spot along the barricades — it’s equal parts spectacle, block party, and neighborhood tradition. Click here to learn more →
