The fun never stops this summer with dazzling performances and activities for everyone to enjoy. Experience unforgettable concerts, timeless musicals and plays, and family-friendly festivals across Northern Virginia this August.
Frédéric Yonnet
August 1
Experience an enchanting and modern harmonica performance by this French-born urban jazz artist. The harmonicist combines elements of gospel, blues, jazz, rock, and hip-hop in his music. Two performances will be offered, at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $35–$49
Fairfax County 4-H Fair & Carnival
August 1–4
Bring the whole family for carnival games and rides, live entertainment, tractor demos, fair food, and exhibits at this 74th annual weekend event. Carnival ride tickets can be purchased online. Frying Pan Farm Park: 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, $10 parking fee
Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago
August 2
These two iconic bands stop in Bristow for their co-headlining Heart & Soul 2024 Tour to perform iconic R&B and soul music. Here’s your chance to belt out classic hits like “Boogie Wonderland” and “If You Leave Me Now.” Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $38
Soft Power
August 6–September 15
Tony Award winners David Henry Hwang and Jeanine Tesori join forces for a political musical satire featuring “a faceoff between Chinese and American exceptionalism.” Bring your friend who works in politics. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, starting at $40
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
August 9–10
In a tribute to one of the most famous rock bands of all time, this show will highlight Fleetwood Mac’s classic discography and has been personally endorsed by Mick Fleetwood. Broadway at The National: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $55
Turn Turn Turn
August 12
Combining country, folk, and pop with a ’60s and ’70s influence, this harmonious trio from Minnesota creates an original Americana sound. Members Adam Levy and Savannah Smith play guitar, Barb Brynstad plays bass, and all three sing. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $20–$25
Mamma Mia!
August 13–September 1
This timeless Broadway musical featuring ABBA hits takes the stage as part of its 25th anniversary tour. Enjoy this feel-good show set on a Greek island. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49–$199
Murder on the Orient Express
August 14–September 8
Adapted for the stage by Ken Ludwig, this murder mystery tale is based on English author Agatha Christie’s 1934 detective fiction book. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Pkwy., Fredericksburg, $60–$92
Keke Wyatt
August 15
From television personality to American singer-songwriter, former girl band member Keke Wyatt performs tunes from her album Rated Love, featuring R&B, country, techno-pop, and acoustic soft rock styles. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $65
Boyz II Men
August 17–18
For soulful harmonies and killer dance moves, check out Boyz II Men’s musical swagger alongside fellow ’90s ensemble Bell Biv DeVoe. Sing along to “Motownphilly,” “On Bended Knee,” and more infectious hits. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $45
Fauquier Education Farm Watermelon Festival
August 17
From games and vendors to free watermelon samples, this festival has something for everyone. Funds raised support the farm’s education programs. If you sign up for the 5K and Fun Run kickoff events, admission to the festival is free. Fauquier Education Farm: 8428 Meetze Rd., Warrenton, $10; $2 under 18
Leesburg Festival of Kites and Crafts
August 17
Spend a Saturday making fun crafts and flying kites at Ida Lee Park. With more than 60 food and shop vendors and moon bounces for the kids, the entire family will love it. The event happens rain or shine. Ida Lee Park: 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg, free
2024 Around the World Cultural Food Festival
August 24
Stroll through this celebration of cultures and try food from every corner of the world. Enjoy cultural performances, a global marketplace, and an ethnic gastronomy extravaganza. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, free
Voting by Mail: Civil War to COVID-19
August 24–February 23, 2025
Learn about the history of voting by mail in this Smithsonian exhibition. Artifacts include a mailed tally sheet from 1864 and a 5-cent postage stamp. National Postal Museum: 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC, free
Avril Lavigne: Greatest Hits Tour
August 31
This pop-punk superstar performs some of her greatest hits, including “Complicated” and “Girlfriend.” Simple Plan and Girlfriends open for her. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $63
Feature image of Rumours of Fleetwood Mac courtesy Broadway at The National
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
