By Laura Wingfield
Now we aren’t suggesting that you do away with bedtime—we know that would result in utter chaos. But as the sun begins to sink a little later each night and the temptation to enjoy the warm evenings becomes a little stronger, you may find yourself searching for something to do after hours.
Look no further. These are our top picks for late-night outdoor events this summer.
NSLM Open Late
If you’ve seen any of the “Night at the Museum” films, you probably have at least a small desire to witness what goes on at museums after closing. The National Sporting Library & Museum invites you to see for yourself. This summer the museum will host monthly concerts on the lawn accompanied by beverages from local wineries and breweries such as Otium Cellars and Mad Fox. This Friday will feature music by the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra and drinks by Forge Brew Works and Stone Tower Winery. Pack a picnic dinner and bring the family because there are plenty of activities for children as well.
National Sporting Library & Museum
102 The Plains Road, Middleburg
June 26, July 24, Aug. 28, Sept. 25, 5 p.m.
Free
Rockin’ the River
After a day of floating with Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, kick back and listen to some live tunes on the riverfront from bands like Clearspring Bluegrass and King Street Kats at Rockin’ the River, new to the Potomac this year. Can’t get enough of the fresh air and good company? Feel free to pitch your tent and stay the night. Sunset tubing is for ages 12 and up; tubing for all ages is available during regular hours. Concerts are BYOB.
Harpers Ferry Adventure Center
37410 Adventure Center Lane, Purcellville
June 27, July 25, Aug. 29, 5 p.m. tubing, 7 p.m. concert
$5 for concert, $15 for concert and camping, $40 for floating, concert and camping
Twilight Polo
See more than pastel colors and floppy hats at these equestrian games. Each Twilight Polo match hosted by the Great Meadow Foundation has a theme, like Disco, Roaring ’20s or Yacht Rock Night, and attendees are invited to dress the parts. Guests can compete for free passes at the Chili Cook Off on Aug. 8 or show off their antique cars on Sept. 5. In addition to the various themes, the timeless allure of the games is sampling wine from Greenhill Winery & Vineyards while watching the much-loved sport.
Great Meadow Foundation, Gate #2
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains
Saturdays June 27-Sept. 19, 7 p.m., doors open 6:30 p.m.
$30 per vehicle
Moonlight Zip Tours
Breeze through the treetops on zip lines or challenge your fear of heights on suspension bridges at Salamander Resort with only the light of the moon to guide you (well, along with some headlamps and the friendly Empower Adventures staff). The moonlight zip tours occur only during full moons for the ultimate celestial views. Use the code ‘MOON15’ at registration to save 40 percent on your adventure.
Salamander Resort
500 N. Pendleton St., Middleburg
July 1-4, July 31-Aug. 1, 8:30 and 9:15 p.m.
$119 with discount code
Sunset and Moonlight Kayak Tours
You can enjoy a scenic journey down the Potomac with Pohick Bay Regional Park at one of their sunset tours, or you could up the adventure and paddle by moonlight. Whichever you choose, your experienced river guide will be glad to share facts about the river’s beautiful ecology. Tours are for ages 8 and up. Ages 8 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Register online at least one day prior to event.
Pohick Bay Regional Park, Shelter #3
6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton
Sunset: July 11, Aug. 1, 6:30 p.m.; Moonlight: July 3, Aug. 1, Aug. 29, 7 p.m.
$30
