Friday Fives #7 - It's Almost Autumn in NOVA

It's currently summer, but with all the rain it really doesn't feel like it.  As a matter of fact, I mentioned to my husband earlier this week, it seems like fall.  The leaves on the trees are starting to change colors and drop to the ground.  With all the rain and the low temperatures, I believe the trees are confused; because we can't be this close to having cold temperatures and snow.   

Thoughts of warm cookies, hot chocolate, pumpkins, apples, apple cider and so much more.  This got me to thinking, what are my top things to do this upcoming fall season in Northern Virginia with my family.  You know it's also a popular time for baking.  I'm also sharing my family's recipe for these quick chocolate chip cookies. 

Living in Woodbridge, VA, we are within close proximity to so many different fun things that our entire family will enjoy.  That it will be hard to narrow down our top five, but here is my list of the things we will do this autumn:

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1.  Pumpkin and Apple Picking
There are so many great farms in the area.  However, I adore Great Country Farms located in Loudoun County, Virginia.  I'm able to do both pumpkin and apple picking at one farm, in addition, they have great warm Apple Cider Doughnuts.  They also offer wagon rides, a classic corn bin, and an antique tractor.  Admission is $8 for children and $10 for adults.  Admission is free military members and their family.  

If you decide to make the drive to Great Country Farms definitely visit Bluemont General Store and Bluemont Vineyard.  They're both less than a mile away from Great Country Farms.
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2.  Culpeper Fiesta (Fall Festival)
This is a FREE event for the entire family on Friday September 14 from 6-9pm.  If you like hispanic/Mexican food, this looks like the place to be.  For more information, visit http://culpe​perfiesta.org/.
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3.  Shenandoah National Park
The Shenandoah National Park is such a marvelous sight to see.  The drive there is beautiful as well.  But did you know they have an annual Apple Butter celebration?  Neither did I.  This year's celebration is on September 15 (10am-5pm).  They'll have apples cooking in copper kettles.  This sounds like fun just watching.  For more information, visit https://www.goshenandoah.com/activities-events/festivals/apple-butter-celebration.
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4.  Scenic Drives
​Northern Virginia has lots of beautiful scenic roads you and your family drive and fall in love.  In addition to taking the drive, there are several stops you can make along the way.  To view my scenic drive recommendations, visit here.

5. Corn Maze
Liberty Mills Farms in Somerset VA has the largest Corn Maze in Virginia; yes the entire state.  The corn maze is 32 acres and has 4 different trails.  From looking at their website they have a different style maze each year.
2014 - Fort McHenry
2015 - Alice in Wonderland
​2017 - Aim High (see picture below)

The maze ticket is $12 for children 5-12 years of age and $14 for 13 and up.  The Corn Maze will open Saturday, September 8.  

Liberty Mills Farm - 2017 Corn Maze

So, as you can see, i'm super excited about what fall has to offer and visiting all of these places with my family.  If you're visiting any of these locations, I would love to hear what you're excited to do with your family.  Don't forget to bring your camera and take pictures of your family enjoying the adventures.

BONUS:  Are you looking for something unique to do this Thanksgiving? Check out Cooper's Landing Inn Decadent Thanksgiving Fest in Clarksville.  A two-night, 2-bedroom stay are as low as $695 plus taxes.  

The package includes:  

• Homemade Pumpkin Bread & Warm Apple Cider Upon Arrival
• Two Nights Accommodation in a private Cottage
• Two Candlelight Breakfasts
• Bottle of Wine
• Complementary Snacks, Bottled Water, & Soda in Butler’s Pantry
• Table for Two at our Annual Thanksgiving Feast
• Harvest Wine in Room

To book your Thanksgiving getaway, visit here.  

Thanksgiving at Cooper's Landing Inn in Clarksville, VA

Do you need a professional family photographer to photograph your family this fall?  I would love to speak with you about photographing your family.  You may call me at (571) 250-5073 or send an email to [email protected].

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