Say goodbye to summer’s long beach days and summer vacations, and say hello to the first glimpses of fall: changing leaves, crisp air, and plenty of exciting events. This September, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in NoVA and DC, whether you’re looking for an outdoor festival or a rock concert.
An Evening with The Washington Ballet
September 5
Witness an enchanting blend of classical and contemporary dance embodying tradition and innovation. It features George Balanchine’s Stravinsky Violin Concerto, and choreographer Jennifer Archibald makes a groundbreaking world premiere. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $34
The Collection — Little Deaths Album Release Tour
September 6
This six-member indie-pop band performs songs its frontman wrote about personal growth and vulnerability. Special guests include Kate Yeager and LJR. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $18–$30
100th Anniversary Firefighters Parade
September 7
Celebrate the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Company’s century of service. After the parade, enjoy food trucks, raffles, and children’s activities. Main Street to Fauquier High School, Warrenton, free
Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper: Freaks on Parade 2024
September 10
Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper take the stage with their blends of horror-filled hard rock. Ministry and Filter also perform. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $38
Scenes from Behind the Wall: Images of East Germany, 1989/1990
September 10
Offering a pivotal glimpse into Cold War history, this exhibition showcases photographs of East Germany as it reopened to the West and the Berlin Wall was torn down. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, free
AJ Lee & Blue Summit
September 12
Based in Santa Cruz, California, this bluegrass band creates a distinct sound through country blues and string band tunes. The show features City of Glass, the band’s third studio album. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $20
Torpedo Factory Art Center’s 50th Anniversary
September 13–15
Celebrate the center’s 50th anniversary with a weekend full of festivities. The events include a Friday 1970s-themed celebration with a DJ, a Saturday gala, and family-friendly activities on Sunday. Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, free
Colonial Market & Fair
September 14–15
Travel back in time at this 18th century marketplace, where visiting artisans from around the country display their trades and creations. Hear live colonial-era music and play games on the bowling green. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, free with admission, $13 for kids ages 6–11, $26 for adults
Meghan Trainor
September 17
Touring across North America, the Grammy Award–winning superstar performs songs from her sixth studio album, Timeless. Chris Olsen and Paul Russell open the show. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $41.30
Amy Grant
September 19
With a career spanning four decades, this Grammy Award–winning contemporary Christian artist stops in Alexandria during her 33-show tour. Listen to hits including “Lucky One,” “Takes a Little Time,” and “What You Heard.” The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $95
The Atlantic Festival
September 19–20
Meet elected officials, bestselling authors, climate scientists, and CEOs during panel discussions, book talks, and happy hours. Speakers include House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, The Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg, CNN anchor Jake Tapper, and more. The Wharf: 760 Maine Ave. SW, Washington, DC, $225; free for virtual pass
Taste of Annandale
September 21
Experience diverse cultures through food, entertainment, and crafts. You can take part in a 5K, watch traditional dances, visit food vendors, and enjoy a beer garden. Eileen Garnett Civic Space: 7200 Columbia Pk., Annandale, free
Sara Bareilles
September 24–25
Spend an unforgettable night with this two-time Grammy Award–winning artist. Career highlights include her 2007 hit “Love Song” and her 2016 Broadway debut with Waitress. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $171
Tim Meadows
September 26–28
As one of the longest-running cast members of Saturday Night Live, Tim Meadows has acted in countless shows and movies, most notably Mean Girls, Grown Ups, and The Goldbergs. Admission to this comedy event is 21 and over. Arlington Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pk., Arlington, $30
An Evening with Lea Salonga
September 28
Tony- and Olivier Award–winning singer and actress Lea Salonga performs songs from throughout her four-decade Broadway career. She’s known as the singing voice of Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan. Center for the Arts at George Mason University: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, $50–$100
Feature image courtesy Taste of Annandale
This story originally ran in our September issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
