The beginning of spring brings with it ample opportunity for entertainment around Northern Virginia, whether you’re looking to attend a concert, attend an art gallery, or celebrate the season with arts, music, and food festivals. Check out these 15 April events happening in NoVA and Washington, DC, to fill the month with fun.
Nicki Minaj
April 1
Bow down to hip-hop royalty at Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday 2 World Tour. Her album of the same name is her first since 2018. The rapper continues to redefine the genre with her pop-infused beats and lyrical flair. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $97
Colin Hay
April 4
This Scottish-Australian musician, once part of Men at Work, embraces life’s silver linings in his newest album, Now and the Evermore. The music of Hay, who has toured with Ringo Starr & His All-Star Band, sparkles with hopeful messages and vintage pop charm. Check it out for yourself on his solo tour. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $54
Emily: A Musical Portrait
April 5
Immerse yourself in Emily Dickinson’s world with a theatrical performance that delves into the poet’s personal reflections on love, pain, and loss. It’s an opportunity for young audiences to discover Dickinson’s legacy in a musically rich, operatic setting. An artist Q&A and dessert reception are included. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, wolftrap.org, starting at $46
Peter Pan
April 9–21
Fly away to Neverland with this revitalized production of Peter Pan, featuring beloved songs and magical choreography that will captivate the young and the young at heart. This classic tale of adventure promises a visually spectacular experience for the whole family. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $59
Tulip Days
April 13–14
Welcome spring at Hope Flower Farm, where stunning blooms set the stage for a beautiful day. With live music, lawn games, scavenger hunts, hard cider, and spring-inspired wines, this daytime weekend celebration is perfect for families and friends. Hope Flower Farm: 40905 Stumptown Rd., Waterford, free
Washington DC International Music Festival
April 15
Discover emerging musical talent at the Kennedy Center with performances from high school and college ensembles. Exemplary groups from Michigan, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts will be represented. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, kennedy-center.org, $40
Raye Zaragoza
April 15
Experience this Los Angeles–based singer-songwriter’s empowering album, Hold That Spirit, a blend of indie pop and folk that challenges societal norms and celebrates self-reliance. Enjoy songs about personal growth and feminist strength, such as “Strong Woman” and “Sweetheart.” Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $18–$20
Norman Brown
April 18
Guitarist and singer Norman Brown brings his soulful sound to the stage, blending jazz, R&B, and pop into a musical force for positivity. Expect an evening of serene grooves and relaxing vibes from this Grammy Award–winner. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $59.50
The Rakim and DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ravi Coltrane Project
April 19
A fusion of rap and jazz awaits as hip-hop icon Rakim, Grammy Award–winner DJ Jazzy Jeff, and saxophone virtuoso Ravi Coltrane join forces to deliver rhythmic beats. Backed by a live band, their performance will keep your head bobbing even after you leave. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $59–$189
Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival
April 20–21
Downtown Leesburg transforms into a floral paradise for this annual festival. With landscaping displays, a beer garden, and activities for kids, it’s a must-visit for garden enthusiasts and families alike. Historic Downtown, Leesburg, free
Earth Day Festival
April 21
Join the global movement to protect the planet. This Arlington street fair includes eco-friendly art, music, food, and activities designed to educate and inspire action toward environmental conservation. Lee Heights Shops: 4500 Cherry Hill Rd., Arlington, free
Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900–1939
April 26–February 23, 2025
Discover how American women shaped and were shaped by Parisian culture in the early 20th century. With portraits of cultural pioneers like Josephine Baker and Gertrude Stein, the exhibition highlights the groundbreaking contributions of 60 women to art, literature, and history. National Portrait Gallery: Eighth and G Streets, NW, Washington, DC, free
Purcellville Music and Arts Festival
April 27
Celebrate community and creativity at this family-friendly event featuring live music, art shows, and activities for all ages, such as T-shirt painting, glitter tattoos, and carnival games. Enjoy a day of fun with local food and beverage vendors, crafts, and entertainment, including Irish dancers and comedy acts, in the heart of Purcellville. Dillon’s Woods: 250 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville, free
Taste of Vienna
April 27
Try out local food at the Taste of Vienna, benefitting the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department. This culinary extravaganza features a variety of restaurants and food trucks, live performances, and activities for kids. It’s a delicious way to support community heroes. Vienna Volunteer Fire Department: 400 Center St. S., Vienna, free
The Black Crowes: Happiness Bastards Tour 24
April 30
Rock out with The Black Crowes as they return with a highly anticipated 10th album, Happiness Bastards, the band’s first album in 15 years. The tour marks a new chapter for the band, promising raw, unfiltered rock and roll that showcases the enduring power of brotherly collaboration. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, $75–$125
Feature image of Raye Zaragoza courtesy Jammin Java
This story originally ran in our April issue For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
