There’s something magical about October at the Northern Virginia 4-H Center. The air turns crisp, the leaves paint the mountains in vibrant color, and laughter echoes across camp once again as families gather for one of our most beloved programs — Special Love’s Octoberfest Family Weekend.

From October 10–12, 2025, Special Love families came together for a weekend of connection, creativity, and comfort. For many, it was a joyful reunion with camp friends; for others, it was the beginning of new friendships that feel like family.

Friday: Welcome Home

The weekend kicked off with Halloween-themed crafts, and plenty of time to reconnect. Families shared stories of summer adventures, children dove into creative projects, and new families were welcomed with open arms. As the sun set, Dave and James led everyone to the campfire for songs, laughter, and the kind of togetherness that defines Special Love. Afterward, families returned to their cabins, to get ready for a full day ahead.

Saturday: Fall Fun at the Farm

Saturday morning began with a hearty breakfast before everyone boarded buses bound for Wayside Farm in Berryville, Virginia. There, families spent the day celebrating autumn — from carnival games and hayrides to pumpkin-chucking, pig races, and a challenging corn maze! Between petting farm animals and sharing pizza from Fox’s, there were smiles all around.

Back at the 4-H Center, the afternoon offered something for everyone. Families could join a cooking class to make Oreo spiders or graham cracker haunted houses, a craft session for witches’ hats and pumpkin carving, sports activities, fishing, or a parents discussion group facilitated by a board member and former camp parent. Each session reflected Special Love’s mission support every family member — from the youngest campers to the parents — with care and compassion.

Saturday Night: Spooky Fun and Sweet Memories

As evening fell, families gathered for dinner before venturing down the haunted trail, where surprises and laughter awaited around every corner. The night ended at the campfire with more songs and reflection before DJ Malcolm — a former camper and longtime camp favorite — transformed the night into a dance party to remember! Parents enjoyed a relaxing coffeehouse while kids cozied up for movie night — a perfect close to a full and joyful day.

Sunday: Friendship and Farewell

The weekend wrapped up with one final breakfast, a Friendship Circle, and heartfelt goodbyes. Under a canopy of autumn leaves and sunshine, families departed filled with renewed strength, connection, and hope — until we meet again.

From Our Families: The Heart of Special Love

We were deeply touched to receive this reflection from one of our attending families:

“Beyond the fun, purposeful, and well-planned activities, it’s the staff and volunteers who make Special Love what it is. Even with so many families, they know us by name and show us they care. They create an environment where you feel safe both physically and emotionally, supported, seen, heard, valued, and most of all…understood. It’s space to pause, breathe, experience joy, and be your genuine self amongst others who share your journey. It is evident how much effort and thought goes into each event and program offered. Special Love’s unique and targeted approach to meet the individual needs of the attendees (patients, siblings, parents, and families) is what makes Special Love “special.” ❤️”

Every Moment Matters

Octoberfest Family Weekend reminded us once again why every moment matters — whether it’s a campfire song, a pumpkin patch laugh, or a simple conversation between parents who understand. Each connection, each smile, and each act of care helps families heal together — and that’s what makes Special Love truly special.