From goats in costumes to cookie decorating, from wine class to river cleanups to dog-friendly Halloween festivities, October is teeming with events for foodies. Here are some of the month’s top picks.
Cookie Decorating at Sweet Relief, Oct. 2
Get into the autumnal spirit with some freshly decorated cookies. Your registration guarantees you five Braegs signature sugar cookies, icing, coffee to keep you on task, a discount on additional in-shop purchases and – most importantly – two hours of instruction. 1506 Mount Vernon Ave. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $65.
River Cleanup and Clean Water Act 50th Anniversary Celebration at Port City Brewing, Oct. 16
Spend the morning cleaning up our local waterways – then enjoy an afternoon of live music and cold beer to celebrate your achievement. From 10 a.m to noon, join the folks from Potomac Riverkeeper and Port City at Ben Brenman Park to freshen up Holmes Run. Wear close-toed shoes and some clothes you don’t mind getting dirty in – Potomac Riverkeeper’s volunteers will have your cleanup supplies. After noon, head back to Port City to enjoy music, a raffle and plenty of refreshments. Pro tip: Cleanup participants also get a discount on beer. 3950 Wheeler Ave.
Virginia Wine Class at Sonoma Cellars, Oct. 19
Drink locally with a class focusing on Virginia wines. Walk through six different wines with Sonoma Cellars’ sommeliers and learn more than you thought possible about varietals coming from our own fair Commonwealth. Light bites will also be provided. 207 King St. 7-9:30 p.m. $50.
Halloween Goat Social Hour at Lost Boy Cider, Oct. 22
Cider. Goats. Goats in Halloween costumes? Even better. The goats from Walnut Creek Farm are making a visit to Lost Boy for an adults-only social hour as well as the farm’s owner, Dr. Maureen Roberts. Come ready to visit with the friendly farm animals and lift a glass of cider as a toast. 317 Hooffs Run Drive. 10-11 a.m. $45.
Sleepy Howllow at Barkhaus, Oct. 27
In the face of Halloween, dog-friendly Barkhaus becomes a haunted forest for one night only. Bring your pup (one dog per person) to join the festivities – costumes are required! – and get into the spirit of Sleepy Howllow. Your entry fee includes five complimentary drinks, a selection candy and other snacks, a donation to the ASPCA and – of course! – puppuccinos for your favorite four-legged friends. 529 E. Howell Ave. 7:30-10 p.m. $55.