Fall Happenings
In Williamsburg, there’s plenty of fun to fall for
Fall is one of the best times to visit Williamsburg. From art and music to culinary delights, and Halloween to history, there’s so many ways to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Get your thrill on
Busch Gardens® Howl-O-Scream® alone is worth planning a trip to Williamsburg around, and this year those who love all things Halloween can delight in an even spookier experience than ever before. From September 9-October 31, the park will be transformed with haunted houses, macabre shows, and dark music that’s just as heart-pounding as a ride on some of the world’s most thrilling roller coasters. New for 2022, Howl-O-Scream® amplifies the terror factor after 6 p.m. with party zones and scares for those past their trick-or-treating days.
Now you see it
The Wagsters Magic Theatre is fun for all ages, and with shows at 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. many days a week, there’s plenty of fun in spades (including card tricks!). Whether it’s mind-reading, storytelling, illusions, or daring escapes, the spell-binding experience is the ultimate escapist entertainment from award-winning husband and wife duo Brandon and Hannah Lynn Wagster.
Enjoy the season’s bounty
Few things are as synonymous with autumn as pumpkins and apples, but there’s far more than that at Yorktown Market Days, held every Saturday morning in September and October. Set amidst the stunning backdrop of the York River, there’s ample opportunity to stroll, sip, and savor. Beyond seasonal produce, locally sourced, sustainable fresh meats and seafood abound, while fresh-cut flowers, artwork, and live music at most of the Market Days offer up a feast for the eyes and ears. This is the perfect stop for souvenirs, with a cornucopia of soaps and candles, honey, and even gourmet dog treats for sale. While the dog days of summer may be gone, the fun heats up on October 29 during the annual Paws at the River Market. The pet parade celebrates man’s best friend, local rescue efforts, and Halloween. The free event is open to all that’s fluffy and furry with a free professional photographer for owners and their canine companions.
The ABCs of immersion
There are history books … and then there’s experiencing the sights, sounds, and emotions of those who lived it. Colonial Williamsburg Homeschool Experiences makes back-to-school season immersive and fun, with discounted rates September 10-25 at the sites where some of our country’s most impactful events took place. Kids can meet and interact with War for Independence re-enactors including Revolutionists and tradespeople before supplementing their learnings with virtual tours, educational videos, activity sheets, and behind-the-scenes blogs. (Colonial Williamsburg also offers special year-round values for homeschool groups of all sizes in addition to a wide variety of books, DVDs, and teaching resources.)
Delight your senses
Those who enjoy live music and performances, and art like paintings, sculptures, or textiles won’t want to miss the 54th An Occasion for the Arts from September 30 through October 2. This is the first year the festival will be spread over three days, a testament to its breadth and following in Williamsburg — and far beyond. Artisans from 22 states will create a lively weekend filled with colors, tunes, and textures on Duke of Gloucester Street and the surrounding area. Make a whole weekend of it with the new Friday night event, An Evening for the Arts.
Nights at the museum
Family Frights at Jamestown Settlement returns this year for Halloween-themed evenings at the home of the first successful English settlement on the mainland of North America. The indoor and outdoor areas – and ships – are transformed into a ghoul’s playground, with haunted houses, princesses and pirates, carnival acrobats, and kids’ favorite movie monsters. Children are encouraged to come in costume to trick-or-treat in the museum’s themed outdoor areas. There are two sessions on two consecutive nights: 6-7:30 p.m. and 8-9:30 p.m. on October 21 and 22.
