For the first time ever, the Taste of Annandale will have a petting zoo.
Squeals on Wheels, a family-owned business based in Maryland, is bringing two alpacas, a miniature goat, and a variety of smaller animals.
The Taste of Annandale, a community festival, is happening Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space, 7200 Columbia Pike, in Annandale. The petting zoo will be available 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Another new feature is an eating contest. Participants will test their eating skills by seeing who can wolf down a bahn mi sandwich the fastest.
Also new this year, the 5K race will be held entirely in Mason District Park, just before the start of the festival.
As in past years, the Taste of Annandale will have multiple food vendors, all-day live entertainment, children’s programming, a pet parade and costume contest, a police vs. firefighters chili cook-off, and many booths hosted by businesses, nonprofits, and crafters.
Taste of Annandale - September 20, 2025 