The largest culinary festival in the Mid-Atlantic is on October 5 and 6 this year. Expect to see tastes from the region’s greatest restaurants, live entertainment, tasty drinks and more. Local foodies flock to enjoy dozens of the area’s best dishes.
The elegant masquerade ball at the Italian embassy gives guests the chance to take a deep dive into all things Italian. Expect to see an open bar with Italian beer and wine, Italian desserts including cannoli and pizzelles, a ballroom dance presentation, opera presentation, and masquerade contest for best mask on October 6. 3000 Whitehaven St. NW, 202-612-4400
There’s nothing like checking out George Washington’s former home at sunset. Adding wine to the mix makes the evening extra special. Sip your favorite blend while taking in views of the Potomac River from October 5 through the 7. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia, 703-780-2000
The ultra-trendy Union Market is hosting a fall festival on October 6 through the 7, featuring music from Carly Rae Jepsen and Billie Eilish. Expect food from local hot spots such as Rocklands Barbecue, Shake Shack and handmade bun shop Bun’d Up. In addition to music and food, entertainment including slow motion photo booths, virtual reality lounges, and spray paint walls will be offered for guests. 1309 5th St. NE, 888-512-7469
Every fall, the streets of D.C. close for the Army Ten-Miler, the second largest 10-mile race in the U.S. Washingtonians (on October 7) come out to celebrate friends and family participating in the race, which is celebrating 33 years this year. All race proceeds benefit Soldier MWR programs. The Pentagon, 202-685-3361
The Meridian House is home to Meridian's annual ball.
This ultra-exclusive, ultra-luxe event (on October 12) is attended by ambassadors, Cabinet members, members of Congress, local and international VIPs, and more. The black-tie affair begins with dinners hosted by ambassadors. There are also sponsorship opportunities to support Meridian’s global leadership exchanges, programs and various cultural activities. Sponsorships start at $5,000. 1630 Crescent Place NW, 202-939-5892
For those up for some serious laughs this fall (October 25 through the 28), the Bentzen Ball Comedy Festival is a collaboration between D.C.’s Brightest Young Things and comedian Tig Notaro. The four-day festival begins with comedian Phoebe Robinson, author of the book Everything’s Trash, But It’s Okay. Later, expect to see comedians like Michelle Buteau, Jordan Carlos and Jessica McKenna. Don’t miss the late-night Saturday show, “Handmaid’s Tale: The Musical” at the Kennedy Center Terrace Theater either. Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW; The Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW