The Annandale Chamber of Commerce organizes several popular community events during the year. In addition, we offer our members periodic networking and other useful events which you can see on our calendar.
Hospital Bed Race and Spring Carnival: May
The Chamber teams with VA Special Olympics and the Mason District Police Station in sponsoring this whacky event. Contestant businesses send a team of 5 who race decorated paediatric hospital beds to promote their business. Many local politicians participate, news agencies, and citizen spectators. The two week Spring Carnival is held in conjunction with the Bed Race. There are games along the midway, carnival rides, food and fun for all ages. This is a family friendly event enjoyed by thousands each year. Business Sponsors are welcome to display their banners on the carnival fencing for the full ten days of the carnival where tens of thousands of commuters will view them.
Awards Ceremony & Luncheon: June
This special ceremony honours chamber members and Annandale citizens alike. Achievement awards are given to three outstanding Annandale Students and Awards of Valour are bestowed on members of the Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept. www.avfd.org and the Mason District Police Dept. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/. Please see the events schedule on this website for details and reservation requirements.
Parade and Fall Festival: Fourth Saturday in October
The annual parade dates back to the 1950’s and attracts an enormous attendance. Together with the Festival, these are the largest attended public events in Greater Annandale attracting upwards of 12,000 people. The Parade commences at the historic Annandale Methodist Church www.annandale-umc.org and progresses down Columbia Pike to the Bowling Alley www.amf.com and Safeway www.safeway.com on Little River Turnpike where the Fall Festival is held. The Festival hosts one hundred vendors selling handmade and manufactured wares, inflatable rides, amazing food from multiple culinary cuisines, games for children of all ages, a climbing wall, bungee jumps, an obstacle course, costumed characters and International Dancers, a treasure hunt, the Lion’s Club vision and hearing screening van, and toe tapping live entertainment.
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and Reception: First Friday in December
Madrigals, choirs, and student carollers entertain the outdoor assembly at Toll House Park while the town tree is lit for the holiday season. Santa also makes an appearance much to the delight of the little ones. Then stroll down the street to a festive reception held at Burke & Herbert Bank (4235 Annandale Road) www.burkeandherbert.com where a string quintet fills the air with musical perfection while guests are invited to enjoy holiday sweets and exchange the greetings of the season. This is an old fashion evening honored and enjoyed by all.