The summer fun continues as we roll into August. This weekend brings a fun mix of creative things to do, from flying in old warbirds to cranking ice cream by hand. Check out these standouts.
Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival
Thursday, August 3–Sunday, August 6, times vary
Frying Pan Farm Park hosts this annual 4-H fair and carnival. Kids and adults alike can have a blast with classic carnival games and rides, 4-H exhibits and shows, and tractor demos. There will be fair food and live music to complete the lively county fair experience. 2709 W. Ox Rd., Herndon, $1.25 per ride ticket, $20–$25 unlimited ride wristband for Thursday or Friday, $10 parking fee Saturday and Sunday
Middleburg Sidewalk Sale
Friday, August 4–Saturday, August 6
Journey to this charming, historic town for an afternoon of outdoor shopping. Browse collections of Middleburg shops’ ceramics, clothing, accessories, and home gifts. This is the perfect opportunity to complete your summer shopping and support small Virginia businesses. Town of Middleburg, free
The World’s Largest Rubber Duck
Friday, August 4–Sunday, August 6, times vary
If you’re up for a day trip this weekend, consider making the two-hour drive to Maryland’s Leonardtown Wharf Park. For its 15th anniversary celebration, it’s bringing in a special guest: the world’s largest rubber duck. See the big yellow duck with your own eyes and enjoy games, water activities, food, and fun by the Breton Bay. 22500 Washington St., Leonardtown, Maryland, free
Banksyland Exhibition Tour
Friday, August 4–Sunday, August 6, noon–8 p.m.
The international touring exhibition Banksyland is almost as elusive as the artist it honors. The exhibition at National Harbor features over 80 pieces and installations of Banksy, the mysterious world-renowned street artist, including salvaged street art. Guests must purchase tickets ahead of time for a one-hour time slot. 151 St. George Blvd., Oxon Hill, Maryland, $29 general admission, $59 VIP, $22 for students and military, free for 6 and under
Dog Life Popup Exhibit
Friday, August 4, 5–7 p.m.
Have you heard about 19th century dog taxes? Learn about the history of pets in Leesburg at this pop-up in conjunction with the town’s First Friday celebration. Thomas Blach Library’s archival collection will be on exhibit at the Donaldson Log Cabin. 14 Loudoun St. SW., Leesburg, free
Dairy Days: Ice Cream and Butter Making
Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
Channel your inner dairy farmer at Sully Historic Site’s Dairy Days. This hands-on event provides educational fun for ages 5 and up. Visitors can churn butter, crank ice cream, play 18th century games, and milk a fake cow. Sign up for a slot at the 11 a.m., 1 p.m., or 3 p.m. sessions. 3650 Historic Sully Wy., Chantilly, $8
Peach Fuzztival
August 5–6, and August 12–13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Celebrate peak peach season at Great Country Farms. Start off the day with a pastry breakfast at Knead It Bakery before peach-picking. Other activities include a peach pie-eating contest, peach pit-spitting contest, water balloon toss, and live music. For peachy refreshments enjoy Bluemont Vineyard’s peach wine slushies, peach wine, and peachy food specials, as well as Dirt Farm Brewing’s Som’ Peach Golden Ale, brewed with 800 pounds of peaches. 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, $14 for adults, $12 for children, free for kids two and under and Fan of the Farm Club Members
Health and Wellness Expo
Saturday, August 5, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Health is more fun than just eating your vegetables. For I-Care’s 30th anniversary celebration, it will host its first annual Health and Wellness Expo. Explore various health screenings and demos, fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, and maybe even treat yourself to a massage. To keep the children entertained, there will be kid-friendly activities from face painting to a moon bounce. The event’s live jazz music, DJ, and healthy foods are sure to make the event fun. 19955 Highland Vista Dr., Ste. 140, Ashburn, free with registration
Wings and Wheels
Saturday, August 5, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Fly to new heights with this event at Stafford Regional Airport. Breakfast for a $10 donation kicks off the event before visitors can browse the various automobile and aircraft displays and attractions. Four vintage aircraft, including a Waco UPF-7, will offer rides. Flights also will be available on Sunday, August 6. 95 Aviation Wy., Fredericksburg, free admissions but price varies by activity
Maker’s Market at Westpost
Sunday, August 6, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Looking for a sip-and-stroll to enjoy? Maker’s Market at Westpost returns the first Sunday of each month with new and returning vendors. Twenty creators and artists star in this outdoor shopping event at National Landing. A live DJ will provide tunes for the afternoon. 201 S. Joyce St., Arlington, free
American Indian Youth Powwow
Sunday, August 6, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
This powwow at Waterfront Park in Alexandria aims to create a space for Native American communities to connect and celebrate culture. The public is invited to this free event, where intertribal dancers, drum groups, activities, and community resources will be showcased. 1 Prince St., Alexandria, free
Jason Mraz and His Superband
Sunday, August 6, 8 p.m.
Even Jason Mraz himself is excited for his first show at Wolf Trap. The singer-songwriter behind hits such as “I’m Yours” and “I Won’t Give Up” is touring in support of his latest album The Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride. Singer-songwriter Monica Martin will open the show. Snag a ticket while you can. 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, $89–$253
Lego Sculptures
Through September 4
Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with Lego Bricks is at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester. The outdoor exhibit includes 14 sculptures, including polar bears. 901 Amherst St., Winchester, $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $10 for ages 13–18, $5 for ages 5–12, free for 4 and under and MSV members
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Through September 24
Glitz and glamour galore are on display at the Kennedy Center’s Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The romantic drama takes on a new theatrical life with electrifying music and choreography that make for a spectacular experience. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $45–$169
Feature image by Shervin Lainez courtesy Ashley White PR
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