Capitol City Carnival Faire & Brew — Sept 21–23, 2007
This event is not specifically geared towards kids, but it does a good job of making sure that both parents and kids get a chance to indulge.
For parents… if you like good beer there is an amazing selection of beers to taste, and where better to enjoy good beer than outside on a beautiful day.
For kids… a moon bounce obstacle course, a ferris wheel, and the option to run barefoot in the grass with live music were all that was needed to convince our kids that it wasn’t just mommy and daddy’s day out. They were also in awe of the Yard Dogs Road Show, as were some other little ones 
The downside.… $$$.… we were frugal — packed a lunch and didn’t buy any souvenirs (except a pint glass), but still dropped $96 today. Breakdown: $30/ each for two adult tickets (saved $ by buying ahead online), $10 sober up food, $15 pint glass and extra taste tokens, $11 ride tickets.
Also, in northern Virginia, where there is alcohol there will be smokers. There was a smoker’s lounge set up, but we still came across a lot of smoke and cigarette butts, so if you are especially sensitive in that department it may not be the place for you.
This was the first year of what promises to become an annual event, and we plan to attend again (and maybe even to volunteer to pour if there’s a Bear Republic table again…) next year. Hope to catch some of you there!
Tips for your trip: an off-road or jogging stroller will be easier on everyone involved. Also, there is limited shade so come prepared with hats and sunscreen. And finally PLEASE drive carefully… we left behind a mini-van that had no business being on the road. Don’t be that guy!!!!!
