ViVa! Vienna!

ViVa! Vienna! Memorial Day Weekend Festival

ViVa! Vienna! is basically the Northern Virginia version of a county fair dropped into a small downtown. Three days of carnival rides, food booths, crafts vendors, and live music, all running along Church Street in the middle of Vienna. Admission is free, you just pay for rides and food. There are about two dozen rides ranging from tiny kiddie ones (carousel, Jolly Choo Choo) up through bigger thrill rides for older kids and adults.

The food situation is the other draw. We're talking funnel cakes, turkey legs, kettle corn, lemonade, the full festival circuit. The Rotary Club runs the whole thing, so proceeds go to local charities. It gets crowded, especially Saturday afternoon, but the vibe is relaxed and family-oriented. If you live anywhere in Fairfax County, this is probably already on your radar. If you don't, it's worth the trip, especially on Sunday or Monday morning before the crowds peak.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Sunday or Monday morning is less crowded: Saturday afternoon is peak crush. If you have younger kids or want shorter ride lines, go Sunday before noon or Monday morning.
• ✓Bring cash for rides: Ride tickets are sold at booths on-site. Some vendors are cash-only for food too. An ATM will be there but lines get long.
• ✓Kiddie rides are grouped together: Look for the toddler/preschool ride area, carousel, Willie the Whale, Jolly Choo Choo, and others are sized for little ones. You don't have to walk the whole festival to find age-appropriate rides.
• ✓Set a ride budget beforehand: Tickets add up quickly. Decide on a number of rides per kid before you arrive. Wristband deals may be available, check the website closer to the event.
• ✓Bring a stroller you don't mind in crowds: The festival grounds get packed. An umbrella stroller navigates better than a full-size one. Or bring a wagon for younger kids who'll need a break.
• ✓Sunscreen and layers: Late May can be hot during the day but cools off at night. If you're staying into the evening for music, a light jacket for kids is smart.