10/23/2026
ENRG Realty Virginia | October 23–25, 2026
VIRGINIA WEEKEND HAPPENINGS | OCTOBER 23–25
Fall is putting on quite a show across Central Virginia!
From historic fall festivals and Halloween fun to live entertainment, local art, and mountain traditions, there's plenty happening this weekend.
Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a date night, or a reason to explore somewhere new, here are 10 events worth checking out!
1. JAY LENO LIVE — LYNCHBURG
Friday, October 23 | 7:30 PM
Comedy legend Jay Leno takes the stage at the Historic Academy Theatre for an evening of stand-up comedy and storytelling.
2. APPOMATTOX FALL FESTIVAL — APPOMATTOX
Saturday, October 24 | 10 AM–3 PM
Enjoy live music, local vendors, historical demonstrations, train rides, pumpkin painting, and family activities at the American Civil War Museum.
3. SEDALIA CHILI COOKOFF — BIG ISLAND
Saturday, October 24 | 11 AM–6 PM
Come hungry! Sample chili, enjoy live music, browse local vendors, and spend the afternoon at the Sedalia Center.
4. SPIRITS OF THE REVOLUTION GHOST WALK — AMHERST
Saturday, October 24 | Tours depart 5:30–8 PM
Discover a different side of Amherst's history during a guided ghost walk through downtown.
Reservations are recommended.
5. SMITH MOUNTAIN ARTS COUNCIL ART SHOW — HARDY
October 23–25 | Friday and Saturday Noon–5 PM; Sunday Noon–2 PM
Explore original artwork by talented regional artists at Kaleidoscope Gathering Place near Smith Mountain Lake.
6. BLUE RIDGE FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL — FERRUM
Saturday, October 24 | 10 AM–5 PM
Experience traditional mountain music, handmade crafts, historic demonstrations, local food, and family activities at Ferrum College.
Admission is free! Parking fees apply.
7. DR PEPPER DAY FESTIVAL — ROANOKE
Saturday, October 24 | 11 AM–5 PM
Celebrate a unique piece of Roanoke history with live music, food trucks, vendors, children's activities, and giveaways.
Free admission!
8. LAYMAN FAMILY FARMS — MONTVALE
October 24–25 | Saturday 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday 11 AM–6 PM
Enjoy a classic fall outing with a giant corn maze, pumpkins, farm animals, and seasonal activities.
Event details and tickets
9. TRUNK OR TREAT AT APOCALYPSE ALE WORKS — FOREST
Sunday, October 25 | 4:30–6:30 PM
Bring the kids in costume for candy, decorated cars, a bounce zone, and Halloween fun!
10. VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL — CHARLOTTESVILLE
October 23–25 | Screening times vary
Explore independent films, documentaries, special screenings, and filmmaker conversations at one of Virginia's premier film festivals.
GREAT COMMUNITIES. GREAT EXPERIENCES. A GREAT PLACE TO CALL HOME.
One of the best things about living in Virginia is the variety of experiences right outside our doors.
From the historic streets of Appomattox and Amherst to the beautiful countryside surrounding Bedford and Smith Mountain Lake, our communities have so much to offer.
At ENRG Realty Virginia, we believe loving where you live is about more than finding the right house. It's about the people, businesses, traditions, and experiences that make a community feel like home.
What's your favorite fall activity in Central Virginia?
Have an event happening in your community that we missed? Share it in the comments!