Prepare for summertime fun across Northern Virginia and Washington, DC. Whether it’s tasting 18th-century spirits at George Washington’s Distillery, jamming to concerts by legends like Patti LaBelle and Lita Ford, or watching theater performances at the Kennedy Center, you will have a number of June events from which to choose.
George Washington Whiskey Tasting
June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29
Discover the flavors of the 18th century at this reconstructed distillery every Saturday in June. Taste three distilled spirits made exactly as they were during the first president’s era. George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill: 5313 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $60
17th Annual Western Loudoun Art and Studio Tour
June 7–9
Explore local art with a self-guided tour of 29 studios and two arts centers in western Loudoun County. The tour features 48 juried artists showcasing paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and more. Various locations, free
Patti Labelle and Gladys Knight
June 8
Experience an unforgettable evening with two soul icons. These Grammy Award–winning legends will enchant you with their powerful vocals and timeless hits, such as “Lady Marmalade” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $49
Lita Ford
June 8
Rock out with Lita Ford, the iconic “Queen of Metal” and former Runaways lead guitarist. Audiences can look forward to the powerful guitar riffs and the vocals that fueled hits like “Cherry Bomb” and “Close My Eyes Forever.” Tally Ho Theater: 19 W. Market St., Leesburg, starting at $49.50
Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now
June 8
Revisit Hairspray, the feisty Broadway musical about 1962 Baltimore. It’s celebrating its 22nd anniversary this year. Original stars Marissa Jaret Winokur, Kerry Butler, and Laura Bell Bundy, who played Tracy, Penny, and Amber, reunite for a spectacular night of music and laughs. The Alden Theatre: 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org, $75; $60 for seniors
Sleeping Beauty
June 9
Revel in the classic fairy tale of Princess Aurora, dramatized through ballet. Watch as fairies battle evil and be enchanted by a dazzling wedding scene that will feature childhood favorites Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $49
Capital Pride Festival
June 9
Celebrate Pride Month at the biggest annual LGBTQ+ event in the region. This year’s theme is “totally radical,” a nod to ’80s and ’90s activism. Pennsylvania Avenue will come alive with over 300 exhibitors, performances on three stages, and a rich selection of food and beverages. Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC, free
Columbia Pike Blues Festival
June 15
Head to South Arlington’s favorite summer fest, headlined by soul star Bette Smith and featuring an all-female lineup. Enjoy the sounds of blues, jazz, and bluegrass, plus food, wine and beer, and family activities at this 27th annual event. 922 S. Walter Reed Dr., Arlington, free
Santana and Counting Crows: Oneness Tour 2024
June 20
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Carlos Santana and pop-rock band Counting Crows are set to electrify fans with classic hits, including a special 25th anniversary celebration of Santana’s Grammy-winning album, Supernatural, and Counting Crows’ most recent album, Butter Miracle, Suite One. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Dr., Bristow, starting at $44
Editor’s note: Saturday’s festivities for Portside in Old Town Summer Festival have been cancelled due to extreme heat.
Portside in Old Town Summer Festival
June 21–22
Relish the summer season with live jazz music, Port City Brewing Company beers, poetry readings, and family entertainment. In honor of Alexandria’s 275th anniversary, Port City is serving an India Pale Ale called ALX275, brewed with 275 pounds of hops. Waterfront Park: 1A Prince St., Alexandria, free
Ben Platt
June 23
Don’t miss the Dear Evan Hansen star for a night of soaring vocals. He’s just released his album Honeymind. Alongside him, recent Grammy Award–winner Brandy Clark will captivate with
her Americana tunes. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $45
The Wallflowers
June 24–25
Known for hits like “6th Avenue Heartache” and “One Headlight,” this two-time Grammy Award–winning band, led by the charismatic Jakob Dylan, promises an evening of roots rock that is sure to captivate fans old and new. Opening for the band is Justin Trawick, who has been performing in the area since 2006. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $75
The Kite Runner
June 25–30
See the stage adaptation of The Kite Runner, a profound story about an immigrant confronting his past in war-torn Afghanistan. This play addresses sensitive social issues and is recommended for those who are ages 13 and above. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, kennedy-center.org, $39–$149
Funny Girl
June 25–July 14
This classic musical returns to the stage with its beloved score and a modern look at Fanny Brice’s rise from obscurity to stardom. Experience show-stopping numbers like “Don’t Rain On My Parade” and “I’m The Greatest Star.” The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49–$189
Flycatcher
June 27
Catch this Canadian band for one night as its members play a mix of pop-punk and alt-rock. Feel the energy of the band’s viral hit “Games” and the cutting guitar licks on “Always Selfish.” Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, jamminjava.com, $15–$25
Feature image of Gladys Knight courtesy Wolf Trap
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
