Get out and enjoy the weekend of August 2–4 with live music performances, an oyster festival, and more across NoVA. Here are some of your options.
Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago
August 2, 7:30 p.m.
These two bands stop in Bristow for their co-headlining Heart & Soul 2024 Tour to perform iconic R&B and soul music. Here’s your chance to belt out classic hits like “Boogie Wonderland” and “If You Leave Me Now.” Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $28
Fairfax County 4-H Fair & Carnival
August 2–4, multiple times
Bring the whole family for carnival games and rides, live entertainment, tractor demos, fair food, and exhibits. This is the 74th year for this fun event. Carnival ride tickets can be purchased online. Frying Pan Farm Park: 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, $10 parking fee
International Food Fest and Kids Rodeo
August 2, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Try a variety of cuisines at this food fest hosted by the Christian Fellowship Church. Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Jamaican, and Mediterranean will be available. Sip on lemonade from Lemon Face Shakers or Mocktails from Bar Therapy. For a sweet treat, try Frost Softy, Toimoi Bakery, or Yume Asian Fusion. There will be live music, cornhole, a “horse” race, and water games. CFC Parking Lot: 44505 Atwater Dr., Ashburn, free
A. Smith Bowman Summer Fest
August 3, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Fredericksburg Roller Derby and A. Smith Bowman Distillery invite you to explore vendors at this 2nd annual summer festival. Try frozen daiquiris, beer, and cocktails while jamming out to live music and perusing food trucks. Activities include a roller derby tournament and axe throwing. A. Smith Bowman Distillery: 1 Bowman Dr., Fredericksburg, free
Dan and Shay, Jake Owen & Dylan Marlowe
August 3, 7 p.m.
For an unforgettable night of country music, experience the award-winning duo Dan and Shay as they perform some of their greatest hits. Sing along to “Tequila,” “All to Myself,” “10,000 House,” and the newest album, Bigger Houses. The concert features special performances by Jake Owen and Dylan Marlowe. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $30
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
August 3, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck makes its yearly return, now with exclusive 50th anniversary merch. Stop by Westpost retail center to shop for items and treats featuring this iconic Japanese character. Limited-edition collectibles include tote bags, plush toys, hoodies, key chains, and iced sugar cookies. Payment is accepted by credit or debit card only. The truck will be near the DSW. Westpost at National Landing: 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington
Lauren Daigle
August 3, 8 p.m.
This Grammy Award–winning Christian-pop artist sings a variety of hits from her four studio albums. Lauren Daigle expresses positive themes and soulful Southern melodies in her music. Expect to hear “Thank God I Do,” “You Say,” “Look Up Child,” and more. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $39
The Science of Our Surroundings Art Exhibit
Through August 31
Explore the wonders of the natural world during this science-themed art exhibit. Curators Aaron and Amanda Fletchersmith present photography, experiments, paintings, sculptures, and media that depict The Science of Our Surroundings, on display until August 31. Del Ray Artisans launches a free program of interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, including paleolithic archaeology on August 3, satellites in outer space on August 18, and cells to biomes on August 31. Registration required for the STEAM activities, but not the exhibit. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Som’ Peach Ale Beer Release and Nomini Bay Oyster Fest
August 3–4, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Celebrate peach season with a new brew made with hand-picked peaches grown on Great Country Farms. Pair this beer with raw or charbroiled oysters from Nomini Bay Oyster Ranch. There will be live music and additional food. Dirt Farm Brewing: 18701 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont, free
Virginia Artisan Craft Fair Night Market
August 3, 5–9 p.m.
Enjoy tasty food, craft beer, and a plethora of artisan goods at this craft fair showcasing local talents. Vendors include Our Waffle Creations, Matamis Cookies, Bobbie Daryn Vintage, Love Petals, and more. From sweet treats to intricate jewelry, there’s something for everyone. Mustang Sally Brewing Company: 14140 Parke Long Ct., A-C, Chantilly, free
BBQ Block Party
August 4, 3–8 p.m.
King & Rye hosts a barbeque celebration with BBQ from the restaurant’s chef and 2fifty BBQ. Try brisket, smash burgers, BBQ chicken mac & cheese, and more. Beer, seltzers, and cocktails are available from Port City Brewing, High Noon, Larceny Bourbon, and Deep Eddy Vodka. Plus, the party will have music and carnival games. King & Rye: 480 King St., Alexandria, $5; free for 11 and under
American Family Day Festival
August 4, noon–6 p.m.
See an impersonator of popular American YouTuber Ms. Rachel host an exciting family festival at Shipgarten. The event includes face painting, arts and crafts, moon bounces, playgrounds, and a live magic performance by Jake the Great. The live impersonation begins at 3:15 p.m. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean, free
Free Entry to National Parks
August 4
In celebration of the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, entrance fees will be waived at all national parks this Sunday, including Shenandoah and Great Falls. Take the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors for free. It’s the third of six fee-free days scheduled for 2024. Multiple locations, free
Feature image courtesy Dirt Farm Brewing
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to clarify that the performer at Shipgarten is an imperator, not the actual YouTube star.
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