School’s out for summer, and the DMV has much to offer locals and visitors alike. You can get outdoors and soak up the sun or cool off on the hottest days in world-class museums. Check out our list of area events this month, and we hope you find something to enjoy with family and friends.
FESTIVALS, FOOD & FUN
Photo courtesy of The Town of Front Royal
Front Royal Fireman’s Carnival | July 3 – 13
725 Crosby Rd, Front Royal, VA
Open daily, except Sundays, the Carnival at Front Royal with food and rides starts on Wednesday, July 3rd, and runs through July 13th. The parade down East Stonewall Drive kicks off at 6 PM on Wednesday, July 10th. Thursday, July 11th, weather permitting, fireworks will light up the sky near the carnival grounds after dark and following the conclusion of the Front Royal Cardinals game.
Washington, DC, Fourth of July Celebration | July 4
DC area National Parks
Our nation’s capital is an exciting place to celebrate Independence Day. Join the many patriotic festivities in honor of America’s birthday, visit the nation’s memorials dedicated to those who served our country, or enjoy recreational opportunities in one of the many DC area national parks. Highlights include:
- National Independence Day Parade | 11:45 AM–2 PM on Constitution Avenue
- A Capitol Fourth Concert | 8–9:30 PM, West Lawn of the United States Capitol
- Fireworks on the National Mall | 9:09 PM
An Introduction to American Indians | July 5, 10:30AM
Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap, Vienna, VA
Join dancers and singers on a journey through the diverse cultures of Native America. This fast-paced, interactive performance features Indigenous songs, dances, and stories from across the continent. At the end of the performance, audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet the Native American performers.
Alexandria’s Birthday | July 13, 6-9:45PM
Oronoco Bay Park, Alexandria, VA
The City of Alexandria celebrates its 275th birthday and the USA’s 247th birthday on Saturday, July 13, with a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and a grand finale fireworks display at 9:30 PM. Enjoy the big birthday experience including cupcakes, local vendors, and live music.
Photo courtesy of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Lotus & Water Lily Festival | July 19-21
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, Washington, DC
The summer lotus and lily blossoms are a “must-see” during their peak blooming period in July, not unlike viewing the cherry blossoms in the spring. We hope you will take a chance to visit this DC gem.
Loudon County Fair | July 23-27
17558 Dry Mill Rd, Leesburg VA
Summertime is county fair season with live music, great food, fun rides, and of course cute farm animals! You can even enter your home-grown produce or pie in a competition. The 2024 Loudoun County Fair is a great place to gather with friends and family.
Fly in Festival | July 25 -27
Robert Newlon Airport, Huntington, WV
The annual Fly In Festival features live music, skydiving, airplane tours, kayaking, camping, a pot-luck dinner, and other activities at the Robert Newlon Airpark in Huntington, West Virginia. Festival proceeds benefit the Barboursville Police K-9 Unit.
Photo Courtesy of Mubadala Citi DC Open
Mubadala Citi DC Open – Tennis Tournament | July 27 – August 4
Fitzgerald Tennis Center, Washington, DC
Falling between Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, this tournament brings some of the world’s best men’s and women’s tennis players to DC. It’s also a great chance to see future Grand Slam Champions.
SUMMER CONCERTS
For many of us, there are few things as enjoyable as listening to live music and we are fortunate that the DMV has a variety of venues that attract artists and audiences of all sizes and musical tastes.
A July 4th Musical Celebration | July 4
Washington National Cathedral, Washington, DC
You’re invited to the Cathedral on July 4th for a free performance featuring the US Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Brass Quintet and Timpani and Cathedral Organist Thomas Sheehan. This Independence Day concert includes the world premiere of the commissioned work Radiant Revolutions by Carson Cooman.
Free Admission
Patty Griffin with Lucy Wainwright Roche | July 12
Patty Griffin is among the most consequential singer-songwriters of her generation, a quintessentially American artist whose wide-ranging canon explores the intimate moments and universal emotions that bind us together.
Photo Courtesy of Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band | July 13
The Dave Matthews Band (DMB) is known for their eclectic musical style blending elements of rock, jazz, funk, and world music. Formed in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 1991, they continue to have a devoted following.
Outdoor Concert Series
There are also great opportunities to enjoy FREE outdoor concerts in beautiful surroundings. Check out schedules for these summer concert series below that are sure to please:
- Concert on the Avenue | The United States Navy Band (DC)
- Jazz in the Garden | National Gallery of Art (DC)
- Happy Hour at The Parks: Line Dancing | Marketplace Plaza at The Parks (DC)
- Rock the Dock | Transit Pier at the Wharf (DC)
- Glen Echo Park Summer Concerts | Glen Echo (MD)
- Live From the Lawn | Strathmore, North Bethesda (MD)
- La Plata Summer Concert Series | La Plata (MD)
- Lubber Run Summer Concert Series | Lubber Run Park, Arlington (VA)
- Concerts in the Park | Cherry Hill Park, Falls Church City (VA)
- Summer Concerts in the Park | McLean (VA)
- Rock the Block | Old Town Square, Fairfax City (VA)
- Summer Jams | Town Green, Leesburg (VA)
- Open Late Concert Series | National Sporting Library Museum, Middleburg (VA)
- Concert on the Hills Series | Middleburg Community Center (VA)
Don’t miss a post! Get the latest local guides and neighborhood news straight to your inbox!