There’s something about summer that lures the best acts to the region. Whether you’re in the mood to catch a Broadway hit in the District or rock out to your favorite band from the turn of the millennium, these are performers and events to catch in July.
Through July 24
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
If you haven’t read or seen Shakespeare’s popular comedy since high school, don’t miss out on this classic adaptation. Featuring a playful game of love, mistaken identity, and the supernatural, the timeless play is definitely a must-see performance on the Synetic stage. Synetic Theater: 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, $20-$60
July 1
Black Girls Rock! Fest with India.Arie
Black Girls Rock! Fest is back by popular demand. Headlined by Grammy Award-winning artist India.Arie, and in conjunction with the National Symphony Orchestra, the event is set to empower and celebrate Black women across the region through inspiration and music. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49-$139
July 1, 2022–May 18, 2025
Powerful Partnerships: Civil War-Era Couples
Our history books are full of some of the greatest couples of all time. From Ulysses and Julia Grant to Mr. and Mrs. Tom Thumb (Charles and Lavinia Stratton), these couples helped shape the country as the North and South fought during these uncertain times. National Portrait Gallery: 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC, free
July 2
Donnell Rawlings
You’ve seen him on Chappelle’s Show and The Wire; now catch him live on the Birchmere stage. Whether he’s touring the country or cracking jokes on his podcast, the former resident of the DMV is always making his fans laugh. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $29.50
July 4
Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence
While Independence Day is now full of backyard barbecues and fireworks, it’s important to remember the real reason for the joyous festivities. Head to the steps of the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop to hear a live reading of the historic document that kicked off the country. Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop: 1300 Charles St., Fredericksburg, free
July 4
An American Celebration
Celebrate the Fourth of July like it’s 1776. Join General George Washington at his estate for an authentic 18th century party. From military music and drills to daytime fireworks, there’s no better place to celebrate the nation’s independence. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, included with admission
July 5–September 4
Six
History is way more fun when it’s in musical form. While the spotlight is always on Henry VIII, this performance turns the table and brings the story of his six wives to light. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, $90-$115
July 5–17
The Band’s Visit
The Tony Award-winner for Best Musical is going from Broadway to the District. After arriving in Israel, the members of the Alexandria Ceremonial Police Orchestra end up on a bus to the wrong city. During that one night visit, the band is able to bring the town to life in ways that are truly unexpected. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49-$155
July 8
Pink Martini and the National Symphony Orchestra
These two iconic orchestras are joining forces for a performance like no other. With influences from across the globe, this night of live music will feature jazz, classical, and vintage pop songs across 25 different languages. Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, $37-$77
July 12
Backstreet Boys: DNA World Tour
Backstreet’s back, alright! With the ’90s and early 2000s all the rage with the younger generations, it’s no wonder this iconic boy band is hitting the stage once again. With songs like “I Want It That Way,” “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart),” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” join the boys to celebrate 26 years of music. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, $39-$566
July 13
Jack Hess—2022 Tour
The Fairfax native is bringing his tour to NoVA. With previous stints opening for Soulja Boy, Austin Mahone, and others, Hess has quickly gone from creating covers in his basement to headlining sold-out shows around the country. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $25-$40
July 14
The Currys
Paying their dues by playing in listening and oyster bars during their early years, the Americana band is now coming off their third studio album, This Side of the Glass. As you hype yourself up for the concert, make sure to add their latest singles “Man on the Side” and “American Heartache” to your playlist. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave E., Vienna, $15-$20
July 16
Leesburg Jazz Festival
You won’t want to miss the inaugural Leesburg Jazz Festival. The outdoor festival already has an all-star line-up in place, including saxophonist Rob Maletick, international recording artist Art Sherwood Jr., and more. While the melodies fill the park, browse local food and shopping vendors for a one-of-a-kind experience. Ida Lee Park: 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg
July 16
OneRepublic: Never Ending Summer Tour
There are few bands as influential as OneRepublic. With over 5 billion streams on Spotify, the rock band has produced hit after hit throughout their 15-year career. As you make your way to the Bristow amphitheater, take a walk down memory lane as you stream “Counting Stars,” “Secrets,” and “Apologize” to get ready for the performance of a lifetime. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, $30.50-$484.75
July 24
Paris Sashay and Friends
This DC native is coming back to the region to give the hometown crowd a gut-busting performance. When you’re an audience member at Sashay’s shows, you are along for the ride as her storytelling skills make you feel like you’re a part of every hilarious adventure. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, $20-$35
July 25
Gordon Lightfoot
With over 50 years of writing hit songs under his belt, you are sure to hear the best of the best at his latest tour. From “Sundown” and “Carefree Highway” to “If You Could Read My Mind” and “Rainy Day People,” the legend will be performing his greatest hits with some behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes sprinkled throughout the performance. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, $39-$208
July 27
Shawn Mendes
The Canadian heartthrob is back in the capital. With the pandemic delaying the accompanying tour for his fourth studio album, Wonder, the wait for fans to pack the stadium is over. Before you take the Metro into the District, brush up on the lyrics for “Monster,” “Summer of Love,” and his latest single “When You’re Gone.” Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $35.50
July 28
The Congressional Baseball Game
Play ball! The bipartisan tradition is one of the most anticipated and historic baseball games of the year. With both sides of the aisle coming together on the field, don your red and blue to cheer on your U.S. representatives. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC
July 29–September 25
Cirque du Soleil Presents “Kurios: A Cabinet of Curiosities”
This is not your average circus. Step into the world of curiosities as the performers of Cirque du Soleil amaze the crowd. Join Mr. Microcosmos, Nico, Klara, and The Kurios as they venture into the Upside Down World, where the impossible becomes a reality. Lerner Town Square at Tysons II: 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, $60-$350
July 29
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert
Watch your favorite franchise come to life with the help of the National Symphony Orchestra. Get comfy on the lawn with your blanket and favorite snacks as you tune in to the Star Wars sequel. The experience will be heightened when you hear John Williams’ score reverberate live throughout the park. Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, $42-$87
Feature image courtesy Synetic Theatre
This story originally ran in our July issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
