Family events in Waynesboro, VA

Little Explorers Play Time creates a welcoming, nature-rich setting where young children build gross motor, fine motor, and language skills through playful discovery. Caregivers and children move between hands-on centers that spark the senses, from obstacle challenges and building to digging and exploring natural textures. Activities are flexible and inclusive so children with a wide range of abilities, languages, and learning styles can participate at their own pace. Experiences take place inside a new facility, with the option to enjoy a natural playground outside. Entry is included with daily admission or membership, and the program is designed for ages up to 5.

Farmers in the Park brings together local growers, food makers, and artisans in a lively marketplace where all sellers are the producers themselves. Pick up peak-season fruits and vegetables, enjoy ready-to-eat dishes, and find handmade items while supporting the local community. Turn a quick shopping stop into a full afternoon in the park, with a playground, batting cage, and tennis courts nearby, plus a chance to work on your swing at the Meadowcreek Golf Course driving range. Whether stocking up on groceries, grabbing dinner, or taking in the atmosphere, this market offers a relaxed midweek outing.

Explore Staunton on a guided walking tour that spans about 90 minutes and covers roughly 12 blocks through the Beverley and Newtown districts. Hear stories of early settlers, the Civil War, and the city’s renewal while taking in Victorian architecture. Visit landmarks including the Smith Center for History and Art, the National Valley Bank, and Trinity Church, which features Tiffany windows. The route also passes local art galleries, antique shops, and the Farmers Market. Depending on availability, the tour may be conducted on the Staunton Downtown Trolley. Pricing is $23 for the full tour and $18 for a shorter option, with children under 12 at half price. Please meet at the Visitors Center.

Downtown Waynesboro hosts a community trick-or-treat with local merchants. The Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro presents a costume contest organized by age, with categories for families, infants to age 2, ages 3 to 5, and students in grades K through 1, 2 through 3, and 4 through 5. This event is free and is supported by the Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro and Waynesboro Downtown Merchants.

The fourth annual Halloween Hustle features a 10K run alongside a 2 mile family walk, offering a festive way to get moving together. People of all ages can participate, and costumes are welcome. The experience highlights fitness, community spirit, and Halloween fun, then wraps up with a celebration after the finish line. Early bird registration is available at the lowest rates, and registering early helps secure a spot.

At Constitution Park in Waynesboro, the Waynesboro Farmers Market offers a lively mix of farm-fresh shopping and community fun. Browse stands as live music sets the tone, kids enjoy activities, and food trucks serve a variety of bites. Meet the farmers behind fresh produce, cheeses, meats, eggs, and a range of prepared foods. Enjoy a coffee while you explore vendors with candles, flowers, and more, all gathered in one convenient place.

Enjoy a weekly storytime at New Dominion Bookshop featuring a mix of newer titles and classic storybooks. The shop’s Storytime Leader leads each session and reads from a variety of books, so late arrivals can still enjoy plenty of stories. The event takes place rain or shine. Open to all ages, and friends are welcome.

Explore Staunton’s past on a guided walking tour that covers roughly a dozen blocks through the Beverley and Newtown districts. Hear stories of early settlement, the Civil War, and the city’s later revival while taking in Victorian-era architecture. The route features notable stops such as the Smith Center for History and Art, the National Valley Bank, and Trinity Church with its Tiffany windows. Along the way, there are chances to check out local art galleries, antique shops, and the farmers market. A full route or a shorter option is available, with prices of $23 for the full tour and $18 for the short tour, and children under 12 at half price. Depending on availability, the experience may be conducted on the Staunton Downtown Trolley. The tour meets at the Visitors Center.

A Halloween costume party filled with creative fun awaits. Costumes are encouraged, and a dress-up area will be available. Participants can make autumn crafts and take part in nature-inspired fall activities. Weather permitting, expect outdoor games hosted by the Office on Youth along with a visit from the Waynesboro Public Library Book Bike. Indoors, explore interactive exhibits that include a camping and farmers market setup, a sensory bin, LEGO and other building kits, a toddler room, STEM challenges, a light table with magnatiles, climbing features, and more. A costume parade is planned during the event. The celebration happens rain or shine. Admission is free for members, with a $5 suggested donation for nonmembers. RSVP is requested through a Google Form.

This gathering gives kids who love Pokémon, whether new or experienced, a dedicated place to play, trade, and make friends. The area is reserved for children and their parents or guardians during the event. Beginners can browse a box of bulk Pokémon to help them get started.

Envision Studios & Co. hosts a family-friendly Trunk or Treat featuring themed car trunks stocked with candy and treats, festive Halloween fun, photo opportunities, and food trucks. This first annual gathering is free and open to everyone. Costumes are encouraged and children can bring treat buckets for collecting goodies.

Costumed kids and their families head to the University of Virginia for the long-running Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn, a tradition that began with students in the late 1980s. Local families can walk the Lawn and the Range, where residents and members of student organizations will be at all 54 Lawn rooms and throughout the Range handing out candy. Treats are donated and distributed by about 70 student groups and other organizations, creating a festive stroll for the community. Free parking for families is available at the John Paul Jones Arena garage, JPJ South Lot, JPJ West Lot, and Culbreth Garage, and hourly paid parking may be available at the Central Grounds Parking Garage. Residents anticipate hundreds of children and families taking part, and University students are encouraged to attend as well.