This Weekend: Vienna Oktoberfest, Paws for a Cause 3k, NatureFest and More

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NatureFest: The beloved nature-themed gathering is back this year, by popular demand. Bring the whole family to appreciate the beauty of Runnymede Park in Herndon in the cooler, breezy fall weather, while also learning a bit about nature and science. There will be booths and activities of all kinds, from composting to a live skit, to seeing and touching wild animals up-close. The festival is free and open to all ages. Runnymede Park, 397 Herndon Pkwy., Herndon. Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Come at 12:45 to see the ribbon-cutting for the park's new Chimney Swift tower for birds as well.

Vienna Oktoberfest: Beer and wine tastings and judging; food vendors serving up tasty treats like crab, burgers, pizza, and barbecue; and...well, need we say more? It all takes place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. along historic Church Street in Vienna.

Music at The Barns: Performances shift to The Barns this week at Wolf Trap, with three shows. Former member of the band Traffic, Dave Mason, performs a second night at The Barns on Thursday. Traditional Scottish music and modern pub songs are expected from Battlefield Band on Friday. AndKris Delmhorst and Jeffrey Foucault take the stage Saturday. Times and ticket costs vary. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna.

Friday Night at Jammin' Java: Soulful folk music is on tap at Jammin' Java. Mindy Smith headlines a night of music with Sarah Clanton Schaffer. Smith is best known for her breakout single, “Come to Jesus,” and a haunting rendition of “Jolene.” $20. 7:30 p.m. Friday. 227 Maple Avenue E., Vienna.

Chillin' With the Villains: Broadway’s villains get the spotlight at the Workhouse Arts Center this weekend. Saturday’sCabaret Series performance shines a light on the wicked characters of classic musicals. Shows have previously sold out, so buy tickets in advance to better your chances. $25. 8 p.m. Saturday at the W-3 Theatre, 9601 Ox Road, Lorton.

Paws for a Cause 3k: Time to take your dog for a walk — for a good cause. The Paws for a Cause 3k Walk supports Fairfax Pets on Wheels, which provides pet visitation to residents of nursing homes and hospitals. $25. Weber’s Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Highway, Fairfax. Sunday, 12 p.m.

and nearby…

Fair and Auction: More than 80 rides and games? We’re there. The Joe Gibbs Youth for Tomorrow County Fair and Auction returns with a rock climbing wall, mechanical rides, moon bounce, pony rides and a zip line! Parking is free. $10 for adults, $5 for children, free admission for ages 3 and under. 10 a.m. 11835 Hazel Circle Drive, Bristow.

Anything important going on this weekend that we missed? Tell us about it in the comments below.