Downtown Festivals

Chocolate Lovers Festival

This event features two days of chocolate celebration. Among the events planned are the Taste of Chocolate, where vendors sell their wares to purchase; the Chocolate Challenge, an arts extravaganza where the medium is chocolate; historic re-enactments and historic building open houses; children's activities; a craft show and bake sale; a pancake breakfast and more. Visit www.chocolatefestival.net or call 703.385.1661.

Spotlight on the Arts

This event features three weeks of music, dance, theater, art and choral concerts. Sponsored by the city in cooperation with George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College and City of Fairfax Schools, Spotlight on the Arts events take place at venues throughout the city, university and college locations. For information, visit www.fairfaxspotlight.org or call 703.352.ARTS.

Historic Homes Tour, Blenheim Civil War Encampment

The Historic Homes Tour and the Blenheim Civil War Encampment are held on alternate years in the city. The encampment, is a Civil War-related event featuring period music, military muster, drill and firing demonstrations throughout the day. For schedule and further information visit fairfaxva.gov.

Trails Day

A celebration of the City of Fairfax's trails and open spaces. Starting at Van Dyck Park, take a circular family walk through the trails, returning via Daniels Run Trail. Information on many aspects of city parks, family entertainment, Scouting activities, a Geocache in the Park and refreshments will be at Van Dyck Park. For information, call 702.352.2787. www.fairfaxtrailsday.org

4th July Parade and Evening Show, Old Town Fairfax

City of Fairfax's Independence Day Celebration Parade and Evening Show offers Northern Virginia citizens the largest "hometown" parade and celebration in the entire metropolitan region. Co-sponsored by the City of Fairfax and the Independence Day Celebration Committee (IDCC), the day's events begin at 10:00 A.M. with a colorful parade through the historic streets of Old Town Fairfax. Following the Parade the Old Fashioned Fireman’s competition creates a fun atmosphere through University Drive—and involves lots of welcome water to cool off parade watchers! Concluding the day’s celebrations is an evening program of family entertainment and a magnificent firework display at Fairfax High School.

September Irish Festival

This free day-long festival held at Van Dyck Park celebrates Irish and Celtic, song, dance and music. Performers from around the region present the best of their events—and encourage audience participation. For information, call 703.352.ARTS.

Fall for the Book Festival

Celebrating literature, learning and all types of books and storytelling — fiction, mystery, folk tales, poetry, plays and children's books, and across a diverse range of nonfiction: history, memoir, politics and more. The program includes local and nationally recognized writers and professionals participating in readings, discussions, lectures and exhibits and encompasses "All Fairfax Reads"—a school wide reading event/project. Events take place at venues throughout the university campus and Old Town Fairfax venues. All events are free and open to the public, except where noted. For information, visit www.fallforthebook.org or call 703.993.3986.

Fall Festival

Held in Downtown Fairfax on the second Saturday in October. This popular event begins at 10 a.m. and includes arts and crafts, ethnic foods, children's corner, rides and musical entertainment. Hundreds of arts, crafts and food vendors participate in this festival. Also, entertainment and children's activities are provided. For information, call 703.385.7858.

Holiday Craft Show, Fairfax High School, Old Lee Highway

This popular Holiday Craft Show fills the bustling halls with nearly 300 crafters for two days. Juried crafters from around the region will sell high quality handcrafted goods, such as quilts, jewelry, glass, woodcrafts, artwork, dolls and toys, needlework and more. Booths and displays will fill the halls of the High School and will have something for everyone – even the most discerning shopper!