Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to. If you’re searching for exciting ways to fill your entertainment calendar after Labor Day, check out these 15 concerts, festivals, art exhibits, and more that are happening throughout the Northern Virginia area this September.
September 6
Corinne Bailey Rae
This Grammy winner from across the pond is known for global hits such as “Put Your Records On” from her self-titled 2006 debut album. The R&B artist’s Lincoln Theatre concert will feature an exclusive performance of her upcoming album Black Rainbows. Lincoln Theatre: 1215 U St. NW, Washington, DC, thelincolndc.com, $45
September 11
Greta Van Fleet
The Michigan rock band that’s been compared to Led Zeppelin comes to Capital One Arena on its Starcatcher World Tour. Made up of three Kiszka brothers (twins Jake and Josh, plus younger brother Sam) and drummer Danny Wagner, the close-knit crew is best known for songs like “Highway Tune” and “Black Smoke Rising.” Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, capitalonearena.com, starting at $49.50
September 12–November 4
David Amoroso: Belleza Brutal
Floral motifs meet fierce masculinity in David Amoroso’s latest exhibition. Amoroso’s pop art challenges the stereotypes and binaries associated with masculinity, aiming to alter the viewer’s perception of the subjects of his art. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, free
September 13
Duran Duran, Nile Rodgers, and Bastille
Duran Duran solidified its icon status with a 2022 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Next up, the “Hungry Like the Wolf” hitmakers visit Capital One Arena on tour to promote the album Future Past. Touring with the band are Nile Rodgers, who has collaborated with Duran Duran, and British pop rock band Bastille. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, capitalonearena.com, starting at $32
September 14
Tove Lo
Is there a more cathartic combination than crying and dancing at the same time? That’s what Swedish singer-songwriter Tove Lo wants you to do at her show. The artist, best known for dark pop hits such as “Habits (Stay High),” will be in DC for her Dirt Femme Tour. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, theanthemdc.com, starting at $45
September 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, & 30
Family Flashlight Corn Maze Night
Do your kids crave a little extra challenge from their corn maze? At Great Country Farms, your family can take on the quintessential fall task in the dark. Finish off the night with cider and s’mores by the fire. 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, greatcountryfarms.com, $14–$16
September 16
Bobby Bones Comedy Show
Radio host and television personality Bobby Bones is known for his iHeart Radio show The Bobby Bones Show and his former role as a mentor on American Idol. On his Comedically Inspirational on Tour show at Warner Theatre, he’ll share funny and uplifting personal stories with the audience. Warner Theatre: 513 13th St. NW, Washington, DC, livenation.com, starting at $46
September 16
Virginia Cider Festival
Sample hard cider from over 25 brands at Fredericksburg’s Virginia Cider Festival. Live music will accompany the sips, and food will be available for purchase from local food trucks. General admission comes with a complimentary tasting glass. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, cheersfestivals.com, $15–$30
September 19
Macklemore
Macklemore, born Benjamin Haggerty, may be best known for collaborations with Ryan Lewis in songs like “Thrift Shop,” but he’s recently reclaimed his solo star power with a new self-titled album. Check out The BEN Tour at The Anthem, where $1 from each ticket sale will go to a charitable organization supporting substance abuse recovery. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, theanthemdc.com, starting at $40.50
September 22 and 23
Lovettsville Oktoberfest
Celebrate Erntedank, or “Harvest Thanks,” at Lovettsville’s signature event. Traditional German flavor and fresh traditions shine through at the two-day festival, which boasts activities like wiener dog races, stein hoisting competitions, and a parade through town. 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville, lovettsvilleoktoberfest.com, price varies by activity
September 23
The Jonas Brothers
The Disney Channel–born pop rock sensation made up of brothers Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas will showcase five albums in one night. Cross your fingers for crowd favorites like “Year 3000” and “Sucker” to appear on the setlist. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, capitalonearena.com, starting at $89.95
September 29
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band
What better way to relive the “Glory Days” of music? See rock-and-roll icon Bruce Springsteen in the flesh at Nats Park. They don’t call him “The Boss” for nothing. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capital St. SE, Washington, DC, mlb.com/nationals, starting at $126
September 30
Renée Elise Goldsberry in Concert
“Satisfied” is an understatement for how you’ll feel after watching Renée Elise Goldsberry take center stage with Broadway hits and American classics. The Tony-, Emmy-, and Grammy-award winner, best known for her portrayal of Angelica Schuyler in the original Hamilton cast, headlines this dazzling show. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, cfa.gmu.edu, $50–$100
September 30
19th Annual Apple Festival
Celebrate the sweet, crisp fruit at this annual festival, where cider pressing, apple games, and a moon bounce will be featured entertainment. Live music will accompany, along with food trucks and a cider, wine, and beer garden. Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum: 21668 Heritage Farm Ln., Sterling, heritagefarmmuseum.org, $8–$10
September 30 and October 1
21st Annual Alexandria Art Festival
Add some color to your calendar (and hopefully, your home) at Old Town Alexandria’s annual outdoor art event. Browse booths filled with high-quality pieces from a wide range of artists. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, artfestival.com, free
Feature image of Renee Elise Goldsberry courtesy George Mason University’s Center for the Arts
This story originally ran in our September issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
