Marine Corps Marathon
When: Now through Nov. 10
Where: Create your own course
This year’s marathon, 10K, 50K and MCM Semper Fun Mile are virtual. The good news is that runners now have a few extra days to get in their runs by Nov. 10. Check the website for details – plus pandemic coping tips from the MCM Psyching Team.
Living in a Mini World
When: Oct. 2-Nov. 1
Where: Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
The pieces in this free exhibit take “attention to detail” to a whole new level. Whether they’re 3D works, paintings or fiber-art creations, all tiny-world depictions must be smaller than 5 by 7 inches. Opening reception is Oct. 2 from 7-9 p.m. Gallery hours Thursday and Friday, noon-6 p.m., and Saturday, noon-4 p.m.
International Edgar Allan Poe Festival
When: Oct. 3-4
Where: Live-streamed on poefestinternational.org, Facebook and YouTube
Poe’s dark and disturbing short stories and poems are especially popular this time of year—so much so, in fact, that Baltimore (where the American writer lived later in life) hosts a two-day festival dedicated to his spooky work. The festival is free, though select events come with a small fee, including a look at how the writer’s wardrobe might offer clues as to what led to his mysterious demise ($12), a virtual tour of his house ($12), and an investigation into his death and notable Poe haunts around town ($20). Purchase special event tickets on Eventbrite.
Outdoor Concerts at Jammin Java
When: Multiple dates and times
Where: 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna (parking lot)
Jammin Java has two outdoor concert series stretching into October. The first, “A Song and a Slice,” aims to raise money for various causes. Among them: The Bail Project on Oct. 8, Bloombars on Oct. 15, and Jill’s House on Oct. 22. The second concert series, “Friends of JJ,” raises funds for the performers, like Grateful Dead tribute band Born Cross Eyed on Oct. 3 and 1Identity on Oct. 24. All guests seated at outdoor tables are asked to respect the venue’s two-item minimum food or beverage purchase.
14th Annual MPAartfest
When: Oct. 4-18
Where: 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, and online
Fitting more than 50 artists, musicians and other community figures into McLean Central Park isn’t an option this year. But thanks to technology and a little ingenuity, the shows will go on. You can still take in a mix of music, studio talks and contemporary art during this free two-week arts festival hosted by McLean Project for the Arts. The event kicks off Oct. 4 with a live, drive-in concert featuring original members of the Drifters, Four Tops, Platters and Temptations–now performing as the group “Voices of Classic Soul.”