Spring has finally sprung throughout the region. As we all start to pack away those winter layers, make sure to enjoy the new season with a handful of amazing festivals and out-of-this-world performances throughout the region.
April 4–6
Awesome Con 2025
Calling comics, anime, movie, and video game enthusiasts: As DC’s biggest celebration of geek culture, Awesome Con has tons of exhibits, fairs, guest panels, after-parties, and other activities dedicated to your nerdy obsession. Dress up as your favorite fictional character and find your subgroup of fellow fans and cosplayers. Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Allen Y. Lew Pl. NW, Washington, DC, prices vary
April 5
Cirque Mechanics
This modern circus presents its steampunk-themed new show, Pedal Punk. Taking place atop a 22-foot pedal-powered performance platform, the show features jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics, mesmerizing cycling stunts, eccentric characters, and riveting storytelling. Center for the Arts at George Mason University: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, $33–$55, half-priced for youth through grade 12
April 5
Mac & Cheese Festival
It will be a deliciously cheesy day in Fredericksburg when this festival rolls in. With more than 10 different variations of mac and cheese to try, plus breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries on site, there’s no other place to be if you consider yourself a mac and cheese connoisseur. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $20–$45
April 6
Del Ray Dog Fest 2025
Give your furry friend an amazing day at this festival hosted by the Del Ray Business Association. There will be a “Pups n’ Poses” yoga class, a dog fashion show, an off-leash puppy playground, live music, dog races, and much more. This year’s festival benefits Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats, a nonprofit that employs adults with disabilities. George Washington Middle School: 1005 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $15–$25
April 12
DC Beer Fest
The district’s biggest day for beer is on the horizon, and you’re not going to want to miss it. Explore the park and choose from more than 80 breweries and food trucks. There will also be dueling pianos, live DJs, and cover bands. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC, $55–$90
April 12
Thrift World
This event includes more than 100 vendors selling vintage clothing, jewelry, and vinyl records. Some vendors will also offer body piercing and tattooing services, plus there’s food and a full bar. Fredericksburg Convention Center: 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy., Fredericksburg, $5, kids 12 and under free
April 12–13
LoCo Wine Festival
Grab a friend for a grand wine-tasting experience from some of Loudoun County’s top vineyards. You’ll get to savor local wines, meet some of the area’s experienced winemakers, shop from local artisans and other vendors, and dance to live music. Old Farm Winery at Hartland: 23583 Fleetwood Rd., Aldie, $45
April 23
John Lloyd Young
Known for his award-winning performance as Frankie Valli in the Broadway sensation Jersey Boys, Young is taking viewers back in time with classic hits from legendary musicians like Paul McCartney and Elvis Presley, plus performing songs from his debut album. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $40
April 24–27
ALICE (In Wonderland)
Take a whimsical adventure down the rabbit hole as The Washington Ballet performs Edwaard Liang’s ALICE (In Wonderland). The classic fairy tale comes to life with vibrant costumes and eccentric choreography. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $44
April 25–May 4
98th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Celebrate the end of April showers and the beginning of May flowers at this 10-day festival with more than 50 fun-filled events. Embrace the lively atmosphere with friends and family by participating in one of the sports tournaments, shopping from different small businesses, watching comedy shows, grooving to live music, and reveling in the beautiful community of the Shenandoah Valley. 135 N. Cameron St., Winchester, ticket prices vary
April 26
Festival of Colors 2025
Get ready for a day filled with great entertainment and good vibes at this celebration of Holi, the festival of colors. Dance with friends to live music from celebrity DJs, try different cuisines, congregate at the full bar or hookah lounge, participate in kid-friendly activities, and paint yourself and others in celebration. Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, starting at $15
April 26–27
Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival
Revel in the spring season at this award-winning festival in the streets of historic downtown Leesburg. Once you’re done smelling the roses, enjoy a rooftop beer and wine garden, three entertainment stages, landscape display contests, and tons of other fun activities. Historic Downtown Leesburg, free
April 27
Earth Day Every Day Festival
Make this Earth Day a memorable one at this eco-friendly festival. Celebrate the Earth with sustainable, kid-friendly activities, live music, delicious foods and drinks, informative environmental booths, raffles, art vendors, and more. Lee Heights Shops: 4500 Cherry Hill Rd., Arlington, free
Feature image of Cirque Mechanics by Zach Mahone
This story originally ran in our April Issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
