As summer winds down and September ushers in that crisp, autumnal charm, it's the perfect time to cozy up, explore, and reset. Below, find your fall bucket list packed with local events and experiences to enjoy in and around the DMV. Let your space - and your spirit - gather some seasonal inspiration.
1. Stroll Through DC’s Hidden Stories with WalkingTown
From September 13 to 20, explore Washington, DC, in a whole new way with Events DC’s WalkingTown DC. Over eight days, more than 50 guided walking and biking tours will take you through each of the city’s eight wards, uncovering art, history, food, and hidden gems throughout the District.
2. Marvel at Murals at NoMA in Color Festival
From September 8–15, the NoMA neighborhood transforms into a vibrant live gallery with artists painting murals in real time! NoMA in Color is a captivating, street-level celebration of creativity - perfect for a quick inspiration stroll or a leisurely weekend outing.
3. Celebrate Creativity at the DC State Fair
On September 6, join the urban celebration of talent, culture, and community at the DC State Fair. It’s a day-long showcase of the District’s culinary, crafting, and creative spirit - think homegrown art, baking contests, and community good vibes.
4. Fuel Your Imagination at the National Book Festival
Book lovers, mark your calendar! On September 6, the 2025 National Book Festival returns to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. From early morning to evening, meet authors, attend interviews, pick up signed copies, and immerse yourself in literature - for free!
5. Live Music Magic at All Things Go Festival – Columbia, MD
From September 26–28, head north to Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia for the All Things Go Music Festival. With a star-studded lineup - including Noah Kahan, Clairo, Kesha, and members of Boygenius - it’s the indie-meets-pop proof that MD is part of the region's cultural heartbeat.
6. Harvest the Flavors at the Frederick, MD Pawpaw Festival
Celebrate fall and nature at the Maryland Pawpaw Fest, hosted at Long Creek Permaculture Haven in Frederick. September 2025 brings tastings of North America’s largest native fruit, plus homemade pawpaw ice cream, jam workshops, music, and eco-friendly vendors - a charming, delicious countryside escape.
From Sept 12–20, check out agricultural exhibits, the carnival, and concerts. This fair brings nostalgia, community vibes, and excellent fodder for photo ops - or maybe a pumpkin spice snack hunt.
8. Fredericksburg Dog Mart — A Throwback Tradition
Spotsylvania County and Fredericksburg have a piece of living history: the Fredericksburg Dog Mart. Dating back to 1698, this pet-friendly festival will be held on Saturday, September 27th. It’s part dog show, part street fair, part community staple - an unusual and delightful autumn tradition.
9. Oktoberfest Celebrations Across the Region
The spirit of Oktoberfest is alive and well with several local events blending German charm, seasonal fun, and community connection:
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Middleburg Oktoberfest (VA) - Saturday, September 20
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Expect two biergartens, traditional German food, live music, and festival games. Regional artisans will also be present throughout the day with exhibits of fine art, pottery, jewelry, wearable art, and more — a spirited small-town event with big fall vibes.
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Rocktobierfest - Rockville, MD Saturday, September 27th
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Located in the Rockville Town Center, this free festival includes two stages of live music, food, beer sales by local breweries, an artisan shopping area, and activities for kids.
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Frederick Oktober Fest - Friday, September 26 and Saturday, September 27, 2025
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Enjoy German food, beer, wine, music, dancing, and fun! Come together with friends and neighbors for a weekend full of good food and drink while raising money to support the community’s many causes and charities.
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Oktoberfest Bar Crawl (DC - Dupont Circle) - Saturday, September 27
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Wander between Dupont Circle venues for a festive bar crawl, a spirited spin on Oktoberfest for adventurous locals and social butterflies alike.
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Fredtoberfest - Fredericksburg, VA - September 13th
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Get ready for live music, German dancers, authentic eats, games, contests, and of course ... tons of beer!
Your Fall, Your Way
Fall is all about slowing down, soaking in seasonal charm, exploring with curiosity, and (perhaps quietly) reminding clients or neighbors that home is where all this goodness lives. Whether you're wandering mural-lined streets, dancing under festival lights, writing in a cozy café, or cheering for your favorite book-to-film panel - this September bucket list is your key to making the season feel rich and shared.
