September 2026 is one of the best months to explore Virginia. The Commonwealth begins transitioning from summer to fall, bringing comfortable outdoor weather, live music, food festivals, cultural celebrations, sporting events, county fairs and some of the first major fall festivals of the season.
From the beaches of Virginia Beach and the historic streets of Williamsburg to the music venues of Richmond, the mountains of Southwest Virginia and the wineries of the Shenandoah Valley, September offers events across almost every corner of the state.
Some of the month’s biggest highlights include the Super Girl Surf Festival, DC-area and Northern Virginia concerts, Virginia State Fair, Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend, Farm Aid 2026, Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, local county fairs and numerous cultural and outdoor events.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family road trip or simply looking for things to do in Virginia this September, here’s a detailed guide to the best Virginia events in September 2026.
Also Read:
Washington DC Events in September 2026: Best Things to Do, Festivals, Concerts & More
NYC Events in September 2026: The Best Things to Do in New York City This Fall
Virginia Events in September 2026 at a Glance
| Event | Date | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highland County Fair | September 4–6 | Monterey | Families & local culture |
| Super Girl Surf Festival | September 5–7 | Virginia Beach | Surfing & sports |
| DC-area / Northern Virginia Concerts | Throughout September | Northern Virginia | Music lovers |
| Rockbridge Regional Fair & Expo | September 10–13 | Lexington area | Families |
| Rosslyn Jazz Fest | September 12 | Arlington | Music |
| Virginia Pridefest | September 12 | Richmond | Culture & community |
| Isle of Wight County Fair | September 17–20 | Windsor | Families & agriculture |
| St. Benedict Oktoberfest | September 18–20 | Richmond | Food & culture |
| Cox Farms Fall Festival | September 19–November 8 | Centreville | Families |
| H Street / DC events nearby | September | Northern Virginia region | Local events |
| State Fair of Virginia | September 25–October 4 | Doswell | Families |
| Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend | September 25–27 | Virginia Beach | Beach & entertainment |
| Farm Aid 2026 | September 26 | Virginia Beach | Music |
| Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival | September 26–27 | Smith Mountain Lake | Wine & scenic getaway |
| Alexandria Old Town Art Festival | September 26–27 | Alexandria | Art & shopping |
| Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | September | Bristol | Music |
Dates and individual schedules can change, so confirm details with the event organizer before traveling.
1. Super Girl Surf Festival
When: September 5–7, 2026
Where: Virginia Beach Oceanfront
One of the biggest new sporting events on Virginia’s September calendar is the Super Girl Surf Festival, making its Virginia Beach debut over Labor Day weekend.
The 2026 event celebrates its 20th anniversary and brings more than 4,000 female athletes across multiple sports to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The event includes surfing competitions, fitness activities, live concerts, celebrity speakers and other programming.
The festival is free and open to the public, making it one of the strongest choices for visitors looking for a major September event without a large admission cost.
The combination of competitive surfing and a beach setting makes this especially appealing for visitors who want something different from Virginia’s traditional historical attractions.
Why attend?
You can spend the morning watching surfing, explore the Virginia Beach Oceanfront during the afternoon and finish the day with music and entertainment.
Best for: Sports fans, families, beach lovers, photographers and active travelers.
2. Labor Day Weekend in Virginia
When: September 4–7, 2026
Labor Day weekend is traditionally the final major summer weekend, and Virginia makes the most of it.
The state offers a mixture of beach activities, outdoor adventures, concerts, county fairs and community celebrations.
Virginia Beach is particularly attractive in 2026 because of the Super Girl Surf Festival, while travelers looking for a quieter weekend can head toward the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley or Virginia’s wine country.
For families, Labor Day weekend is also an excellent opportunity for a final summer road trip before the school year gets fully underway.
3. Highland County Fair
When: September 4–6, 2026
Where: Monterey
If you want to experience a more traditional side of Virginia, the Highland County Fair is an interesting September option.
County fairs offer an opportunity to experience local agriculture, food, livestock, crafts and community traditions.
The event appears on Virginia’s official State and County Fair calendar for September 4.
It can also be combined with a scenic drive through the western Virginia mountains.
Best for: Families, photographers, food lovers and travelers interested in rural Virginia.
4. Virginia’s September Concert Season
September is an excellent month for live music throughout Virginia.
Virginia’s official tourism organization currently lists a large number of concerts scheduled throughout the Commonwealth, covering Richmond, Charlottesville, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Northern Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley and Southwest Virginia.
Richmond
Richmond has one of the state’s busiest September concert calendars.
The National, Broadberry, Dominion Energy Center and Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront all have performances scheduled throughout the month.
Among the September lineup are performances by Goo Goo Dolls, Empire of the Sun, Billy Currington, Kip Moore, Jon Pardi, Brad Paisley, Ziggy Marley, Gov’t Mule, The Doobie Brothers and Mt. Joy.
Charlottesville
Charlottesville also has a strong September schedule, with concerts at John Paul Jones Arena, Ting Pavilion, Jefferson Theater and the Paramount Theater.
The September lineup includes Mumford & Sons, Willie Nelson & Family, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, Ann Wilson and other performers.
Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia offers one of the state’s largest concentrations of major touring acts.
At Wolf Trap, September performances include James Taylor, Squeeze, Shreya Ghoshal, Wynton Marsalis with the National Symphony Orchestra, Ray LaMontagne, John Fogerty, Steve Winwood, The Avett Brothers and Erykah Badu.
Jiffy Lube Live and EagleBank Arena also have major September concerts.
Best for: Concert lovers and travelers planning a Virginia weekend around live music.
5. Rosslyn Jazz Fest
When: September 12, 2026
Where: Gateway Park, Arlington
Northern Virginia’s Rosslyn Jazz Fest is another excellent September music option.
The event takes place at Gateway Park in Arlington and combines live jazz with food trucks, yard games and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. Virginia’s official tourism calendar lists the 2026 event for September 12.
Because Arlington is directly across the Potomac from Washington, DC, visitors can easily combine the festival with a weekend exploring both Northern Virginia and Washington.
Best for: Jazz fans, couples, families and visitors staying in the DC area.
6. Virginia Pridefest
When: September 12, 2026
Where: Midtown Green, Richmond
Richmond hosts Virginia Pridefest in September, bringing live music, food and community programming to Midtown Green.
The event celebrates Virginia’s LGBTQ+ community and welcomes visitors and allies.
Virginia’s official tourism resources currently list the 2026 festival for September 12.
Richmond’s restaurants, museums and historic neighborhoods make it easy to turn the event into a full weekend trip.
7. Isle of Wight County Fair
When: September 17–20, 2026
Where: Windsor
The Isle of Wight County Fair is another traditional Virginia fair appearing on the state’s 2026 event calendar.
County fairs are particularly good for travelers looking for local food, agriculture, entertainment and family activities rather than large commercial festivals.
Virginia’s official event listings place the 2026 fair in September.
Best for: Families, children and visitors exploring Hampton Roads and southeastern Virginia.
8. St. Benedict Oktoberfest
When: September 18–20, 2026
Where: Richmond
Virginia’s fall festival season starts early with events such as St. Benedict Oktoberfest in Richmond.
The festival runs September 18–20 and combines music, dancing, food and a Christkindlmarkt-style shopping experience.
Although Oktoberfest is traditionally associated with Germany, events such as this have become a popular part of Virginia’s autumn social calendar.
Best for: Food lovers, adults, families and visitors interested in international culture.
9. Cox Farms Fall Festival
When: September 19–November 8, 2026
Where: Centreville, Northern Virginia
For families, the Cox Farms Fall Festival is one of the longest-running fall attractions to begin in September.
The 2026 festival starts September 19 and continues into November.
Visitors can expect activities such as slides, rope swings, hay-bale mazes, animals, food and apple cider spread across the farm’s property.
It is an especially good choice for families with young children who want an early taste of fall.
Best for: Families, children and autumn enthusiasts.
10. State Fair of Virginia
When: September 25–October 4, 2026
Where: Meadow Event Park, Doswell
The State Fair of Virginia is arguably the biggest family event on the September calendar.
The 2026 fair begins September 25 and continues through October 4 at Meadow Event Park in Doswell.
The fair combines agriculture, amusement rides, carnival games, animals, competitions, food and live entertainment.
Expect classic fair favorites such as fried foods, sweets and other indulgent treats alongside agricultural exhibits and family activities.
Why visit?
The State Fair is a great choice for families because different age groups can find something to enjoy.
Children can focus on rides and animals, while adults can explore food, agriculture, music and exhibits.
Best for: Families, children, food lovers and anyone looking for a classic American state-fair experience.
11. Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend
When: September 25–27, 2026
Where: Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Virginia Beach becomes one of the state’s biggest entertainment destinations during Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend.
The 2026 event runs September 25–27 and includes surfing competitions, concerts, a parade and elaborate sand sculptures along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
The festival combines the city’s beach atmosphere with large-scale entertainment, making it ideal for a late-September weekend.
What makes it special?
Few Virginia events combine a major beach destination, live entertainment, art and sporting events in the same weekend.
Best for: Families, beach lovers, photographers, couples and visitors looking for a weekend getaway.
12. Farm Aid 2026
When: September 26, 2026
Where: Virginia Beach
One of the biggest music events coming to Virginia in 2026 is Farm Aid, which arrives in Virginia Beach for the first time on September 26.
The all-day benefit concert features major performers including Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Margo Price and Nathaniel Rateliff, among others.
The event also puts a strong focus on American farmers and locally grown food.
For music fans, the lineup alone makes this one of Virginia’s major September 2026 events.
Best for: Music fans, Americana enthusiasts and visitors planning a Virginia Beach trip.
13. Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
When: September 26–27, 2026
Where: Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia’s wine country becomes particularly attractive in late September.
The Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival is scheduled for September 26–27 and brings together Virginia wineries, live music and a scenic lake setting.
Smith Mountain Lake is already a popular destination for boating, outdoor recreation and weekend getaways, so the festival provides another reason to visit.
Best for: Couples, wine enthusiasts, food lovers and weekend travelers.
14. Alexandria Old Town Art Festival
When: September 26–27, 2026
Where: Old Town Alexandria
Although Alexandria is technically in Virginia rather than Washington, DC, its proximity to the nation’s capital makes it an important part of the wider DC-area events calendar.
The Alexandria Old Town Art Festival takes place September 26–27, transforming King Street into an outdoor art gallery.
Visitors can browse paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and other artwork while exploring Old Town’s historic streets.
Best for: Art lovers, shoppers, photographers and couples.
15. Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
When: September 2026
Where: Bristol, Virginia
Southwest Virginia is deeply connected to Appalachian music, and Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion is one of the region’s signature music events.
The festival celebrates Bristol’s musical heritage with performances representing Appalachian roots, Americana, country, bluegrass and related genres. Virginia tourism describes it as a major three-day festival centered around State Street.
A trip to Bristol can therefore become much more than a concert weekend. Visitors can explore the city’s musical history and the distinctive culture of Southwest Virginia.
Best for: Country, bluegrass and Americana fans.
16. Virginia Spirits Month
When: September 2026
Where: Throughout Virginia
September is also Virginia Spirits Month, giving travelers another reason to explore the state’s distilleries, restaurants and cultural attractions.
Events celebrating Virginia’s distilling tradition take place in different communities.
One example is Virginia Distilled at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond, which brings together spirits from Virginia distilleries.
For adults interested in Virginia’s craft beverage scene, September can be a particularly interesting time to explore.
17. September Events in Richmond
Richmond deserves its own mention because the state capital has one of the most diverse event calendars in Virginia.
September brings:
- Major concerts
- Virginia Pridefest
- Virginia Spirits Month events
- Theater
- Museum exhibitions
- Food events
- Fall festivals
- Outdoor recreation
- Sporting events
The city’s music calendar alone includes performances throughout the month at venues such as The National, The Broadberry, Dominion Energy Center and Allianz Amphitheater.
Richmond also offers attractions such as the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Science Museum of Virginia, Belle Isle, Maymont and the James River.
18. September Events in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is another major September destination.
The month starts with the Super Girl Surf Festival and ends with Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend and Farm Aid.
That makes late summer particularly attractive for a Virginia Beach weekend.
Visitors can combine an event with:
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- Oceanfront beaches
- First Landing State Park
- Virginia Aquarium
- Cape Henry
- Local seafood restaurants
- Water activities
The combination of beach weather and major events makes Virginia Beach one of the strongest September destinations in the state.
19. September Events in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia benefits from its location next to Washington, DC.
September events include major concerts at Wolf Trap, Jiffy Lube Live and EagleBank Arena, along with community events and outdoor festivals.
The region also provides easy access to Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg and other communities.
For travelers staying in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia can therefore provide additional entertainment options without requiring a separate vacation.
20. September Events in the Shenandoah Valley
September is also an excellent time to explore Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.
Winchester, Lexington, Berryville and surrounding communities offer live music, local festivals and outdoor activities.
Virginia’s September concert listings include performances at venues such as Bright Box Theater, Lime Kiln Theater and the Barns of Rose Hill.
The biggest advantage is the scenery.
A September road trip through the Shenandoah Valley allows visitors to combine events with hiking, scenic drives, small towns and historic attractions.
Best Virginia Events by Weekend
September 4–7: Labor Day Weekend
The month begins with the Highland County Fair and the Super Girl Surf Festival in Virginia Beach.
If you want beaches and sports, choose Virginia Beach.
For mountains and rural Virginia, head west.
September 10–13: Music & Community
This weekend brings numerous concerts, the Rosslyn Jazz Fest, Virginia Pridefest and other regional events.
Richmond, Arlington and Northern Virginia are particularly attractive.
September 17–20: Fairs & Fall Festivals
The Isle of Wight County Fair and St. Benedict Oktoberfest give the weekend a strong combination of traditional fairs, food and cultural events.
September 25–27: Virginia’s Biggest Event Weekend
The final weekend of September is arguably the most exciting.
You can choose among:
- State Fair of Virginia
- Neptune Festival
- Farm Aid
- Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
- Alexandria Old Town Art Festival
- Major concerts across the Commonwealth
If you’re planning a September Virginia trip specifically around events, this weekend offers the greatest variety.
Best Virginia Events for Families
Families have plenty of options during September.
State Fair of Virginia
Probably the best all-around family event, with rides, animals, food and entertainment.
Super Girl Surf Festival
Free and packed with sports and activities.
Cox Farms Fall Festival
Excellent for younger children and an early introduction to fall activities.
County Fairs
Virginia’s local fairs offer a more traditional family experience.
Neptune Festival
The Virginia Beach location adds beaches and outdoor activities to the festival experience.
Best Virginia Events for Music Lovers
Music is one of Virginia’s strongest September attractions.
Some of the biggest choices include:
Farm Aid 2026 — Virginia Beach
Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion — Bristol
DC-area and Northern Virginia concerts — Arlington, Vienna, Fairfax and Bristow
Richmond concerts — Multiple downtown venues
Charlottesville concerts — Ting Pavilion, Paramount Theater and other venues
Rosslyn Jazz Fest — Arlington
Virginia’s official tourism organization lists dozens of September concerts throughout the state.
Best Virginia Events for Couples
September is a particularly good month for romantic weekend trips.
Consider combining:
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival + lake getaway
Richmond concerts + restaurants
Shenandoah Valley music + scenic drive
Virginia Beach + Neptune Festival
Alexandria Art Festival + Old Town weekend
These combinations allow you to build an entire weekend rather than attending a single event.
Best Free Events in Virginia in September 2026
If you’re traveling on a budget, several September options can be particularly appealing.
The Super Girl Surf Festival is free and open to the public.
Many community festivals also offer free general admission, although food, activities and special attractions may cost extra.
Outdoor concerts, local cultural events and community programming can also provide inexpensive entertainment.
Always check individual event websites before visiting because admission policies can change.
Tips for Visiting Virginia in September 2026
1. Plan by region
Virginia is a large state.
Don’t try to attend events in Virginia Beach, Richmond and Bristol on the same weekend unless you’re specifically planning a long road trip.
Choose a region and build your itinerary around it.
2. Book accommodation early
Major events such as Farm Aid, Neptune Festival and the State Fair can increase demand for nearby hotels.
3. Expect warm weather early in the month
September can still feel like summer, particularly in Virginia Beach and southeastern Virginia.
Bring lightweight clothing but also prepare for cooler evenings.
4. Check outdoor-event conditions
Many of Virginia’s September events take place outdoors.
Weather can affect schedules, performances and activities.
5. Combine events with attractions
Don’t make your trip only about the festival.
For example, pair the State Fair with Richmond, Farm Aid with Virginia Beach, or a Shenandoah Valley concert with a scenic drive.
What Is the Best Event to Attend in Virginia in September 2026?
The answer depends on your interests.
For families: State Fair of Virginia
For music lovers: Farm Aid 2026
For beach lovers: Neptune Festival
For sports fans: Super Girl Surf Festival
For wine lovers: Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
For art lovers: Alexandria Old Town Art Festival
For Appalachian music: Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
For live concerts: Richmond, Charlottesville or Northern Virginia
For fall activities: Cox Farms Fall Festival
For a weekend getaway: Smith Mountain Lake or Virginia Beach
Final Thoughts
September 2026 is one of the best times of year to explore Virginia.
The state’s event calendar captures almost everything that makes Virginia appealing: beaches, mountains, music, history, agriculture, food, art and outdoor recreation.
You can start the month watching elite female athletes compete at Virginia Beach, spend a weekend listening to live music in Richmond, explore a traditional county fair, visit a vineyard around Smith Mountain Lake and finish the month at the State Fair or Neptune Festival.
The arrival of Farm Aid in Virginia Beach on September 26 makes 2026 particularly notable for music fans, while the 20th anniversary Super Girl Surf Festival adds another major attraction to the Virginia Beach calendar.
For travelers who want fall scenery, September is also the beginning of Virginia’s long autumn festival season, with events continuing into October and November.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, couples’ getaway, music weekend or Virginia road trip, there are plenty of Virginia events in September 2026 worth putting on your calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Events in September 2026
What are the biggest events in Virginia in September 2026?
Major September events include the Super Girl Surf Festival, State Fair of Virginia, Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend, Farm Aid 2026, Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival and numerous concerts and regional festivals.
What is happening in Virginia over Labor Day weekend 2026?
The Super Girl Surf Festival takes place in Virginia Beach from September 5–7, while the Highland County Fair is also scheduled for the Labor Day weekend period.
What is the biggest family event in Virginia in September?
The State Fair of Virginia is one of the biggest family attractions, running September 25 through October 4 at Meadow Event Park in Doswell.
What music festivals are happening in Virginia in September 2026?
Music events include Farm Aid in Virginia Beach, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, Rosslyn Jazz Fest and numerous concerts throughout Richmond, Charlottesville, Northern Virginia and other regions.
What is happening in Virginia Beach in September 2026?
Virginia Beach hosts the Super Girl Surf Festival September 5–7, followed later in the month by Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend September 25–27 and Farm Aid on September 26.
Is September a good time to visit Virginia?
Yes. September offers a combination of late-summer outdoor activities, live music, festivals and the beginning of Virginia’s fall event season. It is particularly good for road trips because visitors can combine events with beaches, mountains, historic towns and wineries.
