It might be cold and gloomy outside, but sunnier days and outdoor concerts are on the way. While we wait out the last few weeks of winter, here are some of 2025’s upcoming concerts and music festivals that are on our minds. Grab your tickets soon — they’ll be here sooner than you think.
Mary J. Blige
March 26
The “Queen of Hip-Hop and Soul” will appear at Capital One Arena with supporting artists Ne-Yo and Mario. A Grammy– and Emmy Award–winner, Blige is well-known for her hit songs like “Family Affair.” She also recently released a new album, Gratitude. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $79.50
World Pride Music Festival
June 6-7
The 2025 WorldPride celebrations in Washington, DC include this two-day music festival, headlined by Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan. Other artists on the lineup include Paris Hilton, Kim Petras, and Grimes, for a full weekend of Pride fun. RFK Festival Grounds: 2500 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $209
Paul Simon
June 6-7
This renowned musician, known for both his solo career and his work in duo Simon & Garfunkel, will play two nights of “unforgettable performance under the stars” at Wolf Trap. Crowds will hear selections from his recent album Seven Psalms, plus other musical highlights from his career. This tour was something of a surprise, as Simon was set to retire in 2018 and, in 2023, shared his experience with hearing loss in his left ear. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $54
James Taylor & His All-Star Band
August 21
Don’t miss this performance from James Taylor, known for hit songs like “Fire and Rain,” “How Sweet It Is,” “Carolina in My Mind,” and more. He’ll play at Wolf Trap with opener Tiny Habits. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $66
Billy Joel and Sting
September 5
Not one but two legendary artists will perform at Nats Park this September for a one-night show. Joel is known for hit songs like “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl,” while Sting is known for his work with the band The Police before he launched his solo career. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capital St. SE, Washington, DC, starting at $232
The Lumineers
September 6
The Lumineers are going on tour for the new album, Automatic. This Grammy-nominated alternative folk band is well-known for songs like “Ho Hey” and “Ophelia,” and you have the chance to see them live from Nationals Park. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capital St. SE, Washington, DC, starting at $79
Outlaw Music Festival
September 14
Make the trip to Merriweather Post Pavilion to see this touring music festival with legendary country and folk music artists. You’ll get the chance to hear songs from Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Sheryl Crow, and Madeline Edwards all in the same show. This year marks the festival’s 10th anniversary. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland, starting at $62.25
Oceans Calling Festival
September 26–28
Looking for an early-autumn weekend away? This three-day lineup is worth the trip. Spread across three stages on the Ocean City Boardwalk, you’ll hear Green Day and Lenny Kravitz on Friday; Noah Kahan and Vampire Weekend on Saturday; and Fall Out Boy and Weezer on Sunday, plus plenty more artists throughout the weekend. Ocean City, Maryland, one-day tickets starting at $175
Feature image courtesy Wolf Trap
