Summer is here, and it’s time to make the most of it. To make sure this summer is one to remember, fill your calendar with these fun concerts, theater productions, art exhibits, and festivals happening around Northern Virginia and DC.
June 2
Paramore
Ain’t it fun? Paramore is back on tour to promote its latest album, This Is Why. The band has recently returned to the stage for the first time in four years. The group will be joined at Capital One Arena by rock band Bloc Party and hip-hop musician Genesis Owusu. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, resale tickets starting at $125
June 2–11
Once Upon a Mattress
Once Upon a Mattress tells the story of swamp princess Winnifred the Woebegone — a hilarious and heartwarming musical spin on The Princess and the Pea. The whole family will enjoy the show’s whimsical songs and rollicking humor. Fauquier Community Theatre: 4225 Aiken Dr., Warrenton, $12–$15
June 3–4
RiverFest and Craft Show
Join over 200 artisans and creators set up in the streets of Occoquan for the town’s annual RiverFest and Craft Show. The jam-packed weekend is filled with festivities, including the Whatever Floats Your Boat Parade, live concerts in the Beer and Wine Garden, and creative vendors. New this year: a Conservation Alley section focused on eco-friendly shopping and presentations. Town of Occoquan, free
June 4
Charlie Puth
Pop singer Charlie Puth returns to the Filene Center in support of his latest album, CHARLIE. You won’t want to miss hit songs like “We Don’t Talk Anymore” and “One Call Away.” Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $49
June 8
Swan Lake
The Ravel Dance Company performs the timeless masterpiece Swan Lake at Capital One Hall. Ballet enthusiasts and newbies alike will enjoy this lavish and spellbinding production. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $55
June 9–10
Mount Vernon Summerfest
Sip local craft beers and explore historic areas after hours at Mount Vernon’s annual Summerfest. Live music by The Fly Birds will set the perfect backdrop to a summer evening of fun. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $40–$48
June 16–April 21, 2024
One Life: Frederick Douglass
A new exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery will illuminate the life and legacy of influential writer, speaker, and abolitionist Frederick Douglass through a series of prints, photographs, and ephemera. National Portrait Gallery: Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, free
June 17
Breaux Vineyards Cajun Fest 2023
Enjoy the finest Cajun food on this side of the Mississippi at Breaux Vineyards’ annual Cajun Fest. Alongside a delicious crawfish boil, the event will feature live jazz, craft vendors, kids’ games, and face painting. 36888 Breaux Vineyards Ln., Purcellville, $20
June 22–July 29
The Lion King
It’s the circle of life — Disney’s The Lion King returns to The Kennedy Center. The Tony Award–winning musical brings to life a story of adventure set against stunning visual backgrounds and some of Broadway’s most recognizable songs. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $39–$195
June 23
Cellphone: Unseen Connections
Through a display of authentic artifacts, immersive and digital experiences, and data visualization, the National Museum of Natural History presents a deeper look at the world of cellphones at the intersection of technology, art, and society. National Museum of Natural History: 10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
June 24
Ceramic Turtle Workshop
Looking to create a gift for a loved one or a fun home décor piece? Join this workshop at Del Ray Artisans Gallery to make a one-of-a-kind keepsake turtle. Participants will use stoneware clay to mold a turtle from head to toe. Select a glaze color or two, and the instructor will dry and fire your turtles, returning them for pickup at the gallery. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $40–$45 plus $10 supply fee
June 26–July 30
Animalia
This new exhibit at the Torpedo Factory Art Center demonstrates the undeniable connections between artists and the animal kingdom. Featuring the Kiln Club, this show will share art that celebrates the wild animal world and reflects the myriad of life forms on our planet. Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, free
June 28
Gable Price and Friends
Alternative rock and roll band Gable Price and Friends will play from the new record, The Consequence of Being Alive, at Jammin Java. The Northern California–based band continues to gain ground with its sentimental lyrics and lively instrumentals. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $20–$50
June 29–July 4; July 6–9
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Every year, the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage hosts a festival to honor the diverse landscape of living cultures and traditions in the United States. This year’s event will feature two primary programs: one about the culture of the Ozarks and one about how religious communities and traditions intertwine throughout the country. The National Mall between 12th and 14th streets, Washington, DC, free
Through July 9
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat
This iconic show, written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, adapts the biblical story of Joseph into an energetic, eccentric, and ultimately heartwarming pop musical. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Pkwy., Fredericksburg, $55–$75
Feature image courtesy Capital One Arena
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
