Festivals are a fun way to get the entire family together. We’ve assembled this handy list of the most popular annual events you’re going to want to attend near Port Potomac, Virginia. From food to handmade arts and crafts, there’s something that will appeal to kids of all ages.

Annual Manassas International Food Festival

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Image via Flickr by miguel.discart 

Held each year in September, the Annual Manassas International Food Festival has delighted attendees since 2003. Thanks to its enthusiastic host, it’s the best place to sample cuisine from various international flavors, including Greek, Mexican, Romanian, Ethiopian, Slavic, and American fare.

This church fundraiser caters to not just the area’s immigrants, but to everyone who loves a good culinary adventure. The various vendor menus of this festival reflect Virginia’s ethnic diversity. Sample the delicious Polish pierogi or a glass of spicy Greek wine with your gyro wrap. If you love chicken stew, you’ve got to get a bowl of the Ethiopian doro wat. There are even American staples, like hot dogs and hamburgers.

This event is held at the Harris Pavilion, located in old town Manassas at 9201 Center St. This park features a seasonal, outdoor ice skating rink. You can also catch a variety of live performances from the U.S. Naval Band to local acoustic musicians. This annual festival offers free admission and is kid-friendly.

Bumps, Babies, and Beyond Expo

A pregnant mother holding an infant onesies for her new child.

Image via Flickr by Javcon117* 

Get ready for the chicest baby event in the area. Held each fall at the Potomac Mills in Woodbridge, the Babies, Bumps, and Beyond Expo celebrates everything parenthood and pregnancy. You’ll find babies, shopping, education, children’s activities, demonstrations, dance performances, a fashion show, and entertainment. Enter the Diaper Derby and the cutest baby photo contest and win prizes.

Past exhibitors include About Women OB/GYN, buybuy Baby, Brenda Amaya Photography, British Swim School, Sit Means Sit Dog Training, and Family Magazine. Hosted by Potomac Mills, this event takes place at the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in the area. Head to the Grand Court near TJMaxx and the family play area.

Gar?Field High School Holiday Craft Show

A girl in a purple dress standing beside a decorated Christmas tree.

Image via Flickr by Glen Bledsoe 

If your holiday gift-giving list needs some inspiration this year, head to the annual Gar?Field High School Holiday Craft Show. This extravaganza is held on the second Saturday in December. It’s free to get in, and there is plenty of free parking.

With around 150 juried exhibitors, you’ll discover items by Riveting Crafts, such as Harry Potter-, Star Wars-, and Fortnight-themed gifts. Stop by German Roasted Nuts‘ table and give the gift of delicious pecans, hazelnuts, almonds, or cashews in a beautifully decorated round tin. Funds raised from the event typically support the students’ music programs. At this handcrafted holiday show, you’ll find a variety of terrific, last-minute presents at 14000 Smoketown Road in Woodbridge.

Taste Of Woodbridge At Stonebridge Town Center

A woman participating in a group workout sessions at a local fitness expo.

Image via Flickr by USAG-Humphreys

Keep your mid-June calendar open for the Taste Of Woodbridge “Feast-ival” at Stonebridge Town Center. Located at 15201 Potomac Town Place in Woodbridge, this community event is now in its sixth year and touts plenty of family fun, entertainment for the kids, and live musical performances.

There will be tastings, food, fashion, and fun at this annual event. It’s one of Prince William County’s premier occasions with interactive activities and exhibits that focus on fitness, finances, and family. Head to this popular seasonal celebration and stroll through the beautiful town center while you munch on scrumptious offerings by local chefs and restaurants. Admission is free, and tastings are just a buck.

Stonebridge Fall Fest and Chili Cook-Off

A vendor handing out samples at a local chili cook-off.

Image via Flickr by JefferyTurner

Also held at Stonebridge Town Center, this exciting autumn event and world-class chili cook-off promise to be a fun-filled day of spicy eats, entertainment, exciting activities, and family fun. Held annually just after Labor Day in mid-September, expect to see over 150 vendors, including food and non-food items. There’s a little something for everyone, and you’re going to want to stop by early and sample the chili. 

Don’t forget to vote for your favorite, or better yet, enter your best chili recipe in the contest and win generous cash prizes. The contest is free to enter, and prizes are awarded in four categories, including Best Overall Chili, Most Unique Chili, Best Decorated Booth, and the coveted People’s Choice award. There will be two stages with musical performances, demonstrations, and community outreach programs. This event is always free to attend.

The Bodacious Bazaar

A selection of bottles on a shelf at a local wine expo.

Image via Flickr by tfbpereira 

This exciting three-day shopping spectacular and wine festival is an ideal destination for a day trip from Port Potomac. Travel 2 1/2 hours south to the Hampton Roads Convention Center twice a year, just before Thanksgiving and again in the spring. 

This show promotes talented local artisans, small businesses, and wonderful Virginia wineries. Last year’s show drew over 300 vendors, making this event well worth the drive. The fall production is a terrific time to stock up on unique holiday gifts in a beautiful indoor setting, while the spring show is ideal for finding new, one-of-a-kind home decor items and fresh fashion pieces to spruce up your summer wardrobe.

Grab a tasty snack from State Fair Popcorn and consider pairing it with a glass of bubbly from Vintner’s Cellar Winery of Yorktown. Browse booths by Origami Owl, Kresta’s Bling, Chic Flag Fashions, and Shining Light Stained Glass. A portion of the show’s net profits is donated to a few lucky nonprofits every year. This extraordinary venue is located at 1610 Coliseum Drive in Hampton. Admission is $7 for adults and $4 for children. Buy a two-day adult pass for just 10 bucks. Toddlers in strollers get in free.

Well, that’s a wrap! Our daycare in Woodbridge, Virginia, put together this awesome list of must-attend annual festivals in the area. Mark your calendars for these kid-friendly excursions all year round. What are your family’s favorite events? Let us know if we missed one or two, and we’ll add them to our list.