Labor Day Weekend in Northern Virginia: Things to Do in 2026

Labor Day weekend may mark the unofficial end of summer, but around Northern Virginia, there’s no reason to let the season slip away quietly.

If you’re looking for things to do Labor Day Weekend in Northern Virginia, you have plenty of options — from live music and local wine to Highland games, classic cars, art festivals and a few events worth making the drive into DC or Maryland for.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, meeting friends or just looking for an excuse to enjoy one more summer afternoon outside, here are some events to put on your Labor Day weekend calendar.

Labor Day Weekend in Northern Virginia: Loudoun & Nearby

Labor Day Weekend Jamz | Ashburn

September 5 | 6–9 PM | Lost Rhino Brewery

Keep the holiday weekend going with craft beer and live music from The Odder Boys at Lost Rhino Brewery in Ashburn. This is an easy option if you want something close to home without committing to an all-day festival.

Virginia Scottish Games | The Plains

September 5–6 | 8 AM–2 PM | The Plains

Looking for something a little different? The Virginia Scottish Games bring Highland athletics, piping and drumming, traditional dancing, live music, food and artisan vendors to The Plains.

This one would be high on my list if you want an event that feels like an actual Labor Day weekend experience rather than simply somewhere to grab a drink or dinner.

Open on Labor Day at 868 Estate Vineyards | Purcellville

September 7 | Noon–5 PM | Purcellville

For a slower ending to the holiday weekend, head west to 868 Estate Vineyards. Grab a bottle of wine, find a spot in the shaded picnic area and enjoy one last long summer afternoon in Loudoun wine country.

Labor Day at Shipgarten | McLean

September 5 | 1 PM | McLean

Shipgarten is closing out summer with a Labor Day grill-out featuring cookout favorites, cold drinks, craft cocktails and games. This could be a fun option for a casual afternoon with a group.

Labor Day Car Show | Fairfax

September 7 | 8 AM–2 PM | Historic Fairfax City

Car lovers can spend Labor Day checking out hundreds of classic, exotic, domestic and imported cars, trucks and motorcycles in Historic Fairfax City. The longstanding event is family-friendly and gives you a reason to get out early before settling in for the rest of the holiday.

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More Labor Day Weekend Events Near Northern Virginia

Don't mind venturing a little farther? There are several Labor Day weekend events around the DMV that may be worth the drive.

DC JazzFest | Washington, DC

September 2–6 | Various Venues

DC JazzFest takes over venues around Washington with performances from internationally known musicians, emerging artists and local talent. The multi-day festival culminates with waterfront performances at The Wharf.

National Symphony Orchestra Labor Day Concert | Washington, DC

September 6 | 8 PM | Washington, DC

There aren't many better ways to say goodbye to summer than with live music outside. The National Symphony Orchestra's annual free Labor Day concert features a program of American favorites and makes for a memorable night in the city.

DC State Fair | Washington, DC

September 6 | 11 AM–6 PM | Washington, DC

Think state fair — DC style. Expect local food, contests, entertainment, vendors, crafts and activities during this celebration of the District's creativity and community.

Labor Day Art Show | Glen Echo, Maryland

September 5–7 | Noon–6 PM | Glen Echo Park

If art is more your speed, the annual Labor Day Art Show at Glen Echo Park features original works from more than 500 Mid-Atlantic artists. Visitors can browse and purchase paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, fiber arts and more.

Summer Sounds | National Harbor, Maryland

Friday | 5–7 PM | National Harbor

Ease into the holiday weekend with live waterfront music at National Harbor. Pair it with dinner, drinks or a walk along the waterfront for a low-key start to Labor Day weekend.

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My Picks for Labor Day Weekend in Northern Virginia

If the number of choices is making it harder rather than easier to decide, I'd narrow it down this way.

For something uniquely local: The Virginia Scottish Games in The Plains. It's different, there's plenty happening, and it works for adults and families.

For a relaxed Loudoun day: 868 Estate Vineyards in Purcellville. Sometimes the best holiday plans are the ones that don't involve much of a plan at all.

For live music: Stay close to home with Lost Rhino in Ashburn, or make an evening of it and head into DC for the National Symphony Orchestra's free concert.

For the car lover in your house: The Labor Day Car Show in Fairfax is an easy choice.

Make the Most of Labor Day Weekend in Northern Virginia

One of my favorite things about living in this part of Virginia is how many different kinds of weekends you can have without going particularly far. You can spend Saturday at a festival in The Plains, Sunday enjoying live music and Monday afternoon overlooking a Loudoun County vineyard — or head into DC for an entirely different experience.

And Labor Day may be the unofficial end of summer, but September around Loudoun is just getting started. Fall festivals, pumpkin farms, live music, local markets and community events are filling the calendar for the rest of the month.

Looking for more local ideas? Check out my guide to things to do in Loudoun County this September.

Event details can change, so be sure to confirm dates, times, ticket requirements and availability with the event organizer before heading out.