We may be biased, but fall in Virginia is pretty magical. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, when the leaves start changing, it’s hard to stay indoors. Luckily, there are many activities that are best enjoyed in the crisp Virginia air.
Apple Picking
Apples always taste better when you pick them yourself. With local orchards like Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville, Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Dickie Brothers Orchard in Roseland and Drumheller’s Orchard in Lovingston, you can pick your own peck … and bake a delicious apple pie when you’re done. Many orchards are asking for advance reservations so please call ahead.
Annual Virginia Festivals
Besides the impending holiday season, there is much to celebrate in the fall. Check out the virtual Virginia Film Festival in Charlottesville or the Middleburg Film Fest (virtual and in-person), attend one of the several Oyster Festivals across the state, or enjoy a beer at any Oktoberfest celebration.
Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall
With its abundance of delicious eateries and plenty of outdoor seating, the Downtown Mall, one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon and enjoy the fresh fall air while you dine. Plus, you can enjoy shopping at unique boutiques or visiting art galleries.
Outdoor Excursions
In between summer vacations and the holidays, it can be nice to steal a quick weekend excursion with friends and family, and Virginia offers plenty of outdoor fun. Go for a trip on the James River or visit a vineyard for a horseback ride through the fields with a tour company like the Indian Summer Guide Service.
Harvest Dinners & Seasonal Feasts
Why wait until Thanksgiving to share a delicious meal with loved ones? Harvest season means bountiful, savory meals featuring locally sourced food. One regional favorite is Barboursville Vineyard’s’ Truffle Feast!
Virginia Horse Racing Events
Virginia’s horse races offer something exciting for all ages. This year you can tailgate at home and cheer on the horses while watching the virtual stream of The Foxfield Races, The International Gold Cup or the Montpelier Hunt Races.
Leaf Peeping
Capture the most beautiful part of the season as the leaves change colors. According to the Virginia Department of Forestry’s fall foliage reports, we are in peak leaf-peeping season. Go for a bike ride through the mountains, or coast down Skyline Drive to stop at an overlook and take in the scenery. The Shenandoah National Park offers plenty of local hikes and trails for all skill levels to soak in the rich colors.
Local Markets
Score some fun fall finds at a local market. Enjoy the brisk morning air at markets like the Old Town Farmers Market in Alexandria (the oldest farmers market in the country) and Charlottesville City Market (voted the top farmers market in the Southeast in the American Farmland Trust’s 2019 Farmers Market Celebration), and pick up some seasonal produce, artisan jewelry or some warm freshly made food from local vendors.
UVA Football Games
Fall means tailgating season. Take your corn hole set to the backyard as you stream the game and cheer on the Cavaliers. There are plenty of local restaurants, breweries and boutiques that offer all your tailgating essentials this season with to-go boxes, such as the Wine & Country Shop. Just don’t forget your orange and blue!
Virginia Vineyard Outings & Picnics
With harvest season upon us, it’s a great time to visit local vineyards. The weather is nice and the wine is fresh! Make a day of it and pack a picnic for lunch. You can catch a stunning sunset at one of the picturesque locations in Virginia’s wine country.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, fall is the perfect season to explore our beautiful state. From apples to oysters and horses to ‘Hoos, autumn in Virginia has something for everyone. ~
