Charles County Events This Weekend | November 5–8, 2026

Your Southside Happenings Guide to Local Festivals, Craft Fairs, Family Activities & More

Charles County events this weekend offer a wonderful mix of community celebrations, seasonal shopping, Viking history, recreation, and opportunities to connect with local organizations throughout Southern Maryland.

From Thursday, November 5, through Sunday, November 8, 2026, residents and visitors can discover activities in La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, and surrounding Charles County communities.

Whether you're searching for things to do near me, planning a weekend outing, looking for local craft fairs, or simply hoping to explore something different, this week's Southside Happenings guide is a great place to start.

The highlights include VikingsCon 2026 at the Charles County Fairgrounds, two community craft fairs, a volunteer fire department shrimp dinner, and additional recreational and community events.

Grab your calendar and explore what's happening!

Featured Charles County Events This Weekend

VikingsCon 2026 — La Plata

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7 / Sunday  November 8, 2026

📍 Location: Charles County Fairgrounds, 8440 Fairground Road, La Plata, MD 20646

🕒 Time: Saturday, November 7, 2026: 10am - 6pm / Sunday, November 8, 2026: 10am - 5pm

Step into the world of Viking history, Norse culture, and fantasy at VikingsCon 2026!

This immersive festival brings Viking-themed experiences to the Charles County Fairgrounds, with opportunities to meet artists and creators, explore historical and fantasy traditions, enjoy themed programming, and discover distinctive vendors.

It's an especially interesting choice for anyone who enjoys history, costumes, storytelling, and interactive cultural experiences. Families can also find activities for younger visitors, although some programming may be better suited to older attendees.

Admission is ticketed, and attendees should review the organizer's schedule, admission policies, and registration deadlines before arriving.

👉 Event Link: https://vikingscon.com/

Craft Fair — Our Lady Help of Christians, Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 100 Village Street, Waldorf, MD 20602

🕒 Time: 8 AM–2 PM

Get a head start on seasonal gift shopping at this community craft fair in Waldorf.

Browse vendor tables featuring jewelry, household items, gifts, and other unique finds. The fair also includes an Attic Treasures section, a silent auction, and a snack bar.

It's a relaxed way to discover locally offered goods, find thoughtful gifts, and support a community organization.

Whether you're looking for something handmade, a small seasonal decoration, or an unexpected bargain, this Waldorf craft fair deserves a spot on your Saturday list.

👉 Event Link: https://olhoc.com/craftfair26

Tenth District Volunteer Fire Department Craft & Vendor Fair — Indian Head

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: 7035 Poorhouse Road, Indian Head, MD

🕒 Time: 9 AM–2 PM

Support a local volunteer fire department while exploring a community craft and vendor fair.

This event offers an opportunity to shop from small businesses and independent vendors, browse seasonal merchandise, and discover gift ideas ahead of the holidays.

Community fairs like this bring local organizations, shoppers, and vendors together in a welcoming setting.

Consider adding this stop to your Saturday shopping plans, especially if you're exploring things to do near Indian Head.

👉 Event Link: https://www.tdvfd8.com/news/335/Mark-Your-Calendars-For-Our-Craft-and-Vendor-Fair-November-7th-

Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department Shrimp Dinner — Indian Head

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department, 73 Glymont Road, Indian Head, MD

🕒 Time: 3:30 PM –7 PM

Looking for a casual community gathering on Saturday evening?

The Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department shrimp dinner offers an opportunity to enjoy a meal while supporting a local volunteer organization.

It's the kind of neighborhood event that brings people together over food, conversation, and a shared appreciation for community service.

Check the organizer's event page for menu details, pricing, and any advance-ticket requirements before attending.

👉 Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/potomac-heights-volunteer-fire-dept-rescue-squad/shrimp-dinner/29167248132864180/

Don't Miss This Week in Charles County

There's something special about discovering local activities close to home.

This November weekend brings a variety of experiences to Charles County, whether you're exploring La Plata, spending time in Waldorf, visiting Indian Head, or traveling from another Southern Maryland community.

You might spend Saturday morning browsing a craft fair, visit VikingsCon for a completely different cultural experience, or gather with neighbors for a community dinner.

Living in Charles County means having access to a combination of small-town traditions, community organizations, parks, recreational programs, and regional events throughout the year.

And you don't need to travel far to discover something interesting.

For even more local activities, visit Southside Happenings: Southern Maryland Community Events & Local Activities.

It's your community-focused resource for discovering local festivals, entertainment, seasonal events, and activities throughout Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's counties.

More Charles County Events This Week

Looking for additional things to do in Charles County from November 5–8?

These eight activities offer a combination of seasonal shopping, community involvement, fitness, recreation, and enrichment. Some require advance registration, and schedules should be checked with the organizer before attending.

Craft and Apple Dumpling Fair — Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 305 East Smallwood Drive, Waldorf, MD 20602

🕒 Time: 9 AM–2 PM

Enjoy another seasonal shopping opportunity in Waldorf, featuring craft vendors and food. This community fair is a convenient addition to a Saturday itinerary centered on local makers and holiday gift ideas.

👉 Event Link: https://gsumc.com/event/862cx87/annual-apple-dumpling-craft-festival

Maryland Diaper Bank Heart & Home Anniversary Open House — Waldorf

📅 Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026

📍 Location: Maryland Diaper Bank warehouse, Waldorf, MD; address provided to ticket holders

🕒 Time: 1–4 PM

Celebrate eight years of community service with music, light refreshments, games, face painting, and opportunities to learn about the organization's work. Admission is free, but advance tickets are required.

👉 Event Link: https://www.marylanddiaperbank.org/new-events/open-house2026

Beginner Hand Dance — Waldorf

📅 Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 6–7:15 PM

Interested in trying a social dance activity? This beginner-level hand dance session appears on the Charles County Recreation, Parks & Tourism facility schedule. Check eligibility and registration requirements before visiting.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31185

Intermediate Hand Dance — Waldorf

📅 Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 7:15–8:30 PM

For participants with previous hand dance experience, this intermediate session offers another evening recreation option. Contact the recreation center to confirm enrollment availability and participation requirements.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31185#157135

RhyDem Fitness — Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 9:15–10:15 AM

Start Saturday with a scheduled fitness activity at the Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center. Check the program listing for its format, eligibility, and registration details before making plans.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31402

The Write Spot: Where Young Voices Grow into Bold Leaders — Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 10 AM–12 PM

This youth-focused program is listed on the county recreation schedule. Its title highlights writing, expression, and leadership; families should consult the organizer for the intended age group and program requirements.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31836#157820

Basics of Basketball — Ages 5–6, Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 10:00AM – 10:55 AM

A scheduled introductory basketball session for children ages five and six offers a structured recreational option this weekend. Review enrollment requirements and available spaces with Charles County Recreation, Parks & Tourism.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31806#157627

Elite Basketball Skills Academy — Ball Handling & Shooting, Waldorf

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

📍 Location: Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD 20601

🕒 Time: 1–2 PM

This scheduled basketball skills session focuses on ball handling and shooting. It's another option for participants interested in structured sports development, subject to the program's age and registration requirements.

👉 Event Link: https://charlescountymd.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=31808#157650

Want Your Charles County Event Featured?

Are you organizing a community festival, craft fair, concert, fundraiser, workshop, or seasonal celebration?

We'd love to help more Southern Maryland residents discover what's happening!

Southside Happenings welcomes event submissions and Community Spotlight inquiries from organizations, event hosts, community groups, and local businesses.

Whether your event is in Waldorf, La Plata, Indian Head, White Plains, or another Charles County community, sharing your details helps make local information easier to find.

Submit Your Event or Apply for a Community Spotlight

Include the event name, date, time, venue, a short description, and an official link so readers can find accurate information.

Stay Connected with Local Events in Southern Maryland

Charles County has something to explore in every season, from indoor workshops and community gatherings to outdoor festivals and cultural celebrations.

Southside Happenings helps you discover:

✔ Local festivals — Seasonal celebrations, heritage events, and community fairs

✔ Family-friendly activities — Recreation programs, educational opportunities, and outings

✔ Live music & entertainment — Performances, cultural events, and local entertainment

✔ Community gatherings — Fundraisers, volunteer activities, and neighborhood events

✔ Seasonal events across Southern Maryland — Craft markets, holiday activities, and weekend traditions

A few tips for planning your weekend:

Check event websites before leaving home, especially for ticket availability, age requirements, weather-related changes, and parking information.

If you're attending multiple events, group nearby activities together. For example, the Waldorf craft fairs can make a convenient Saturday shopping itinerary, while the Indian Head community events offer another way to explore the county.

For VikingsCon, allow extra time for admission and review the event's registration deadlines.

And remember: some scheduled recreation activities are classes rather than drop-in public events, so advance enrollment may be necessary.

Discover More Things to Do in Southern Maryland

Your weekend plans don't have to end here!

Explore additional events, community guides, seasonal activities, and local happenings throughout Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's counties.

Discover More Things to Do in Southern Maryland

Looking for the central hub for local festivals, entertainment, and community activities?

Visit Southside Happenings: Southern Maryland Community Events & Local Activities

For useful ideas beyond weekend events, explore:

Home Tips, Home Hacks, Decorating & Maintenance Guides

From seasonal organization and decorating inspiration to everyday maintenance ideas, these guides offer practical information throughout the year.

Know about an upcoming event that deserves attention?

Submit Your Event or Get Featured in Community Spotlight

Keep exploring, support local organizations, and follow Southside Happenings for more weekly community updates.

See you around Southern Maryland!