April is here and the National Cherry Blossom Festival is underway, which means there’s no shortage of things to do in the NoVA area this weekend. From festivals catered to man’s best friend to musical performances, add these events to your to-do list this weekend.
Quantico 15th Annual International Wine & Food Festival
April 4, 4–8 p.m.
Start your weekend off by indulging in delicious wines and foods from around the world, including crispy chicken stir fry, fine cheeses, shrimp tempura, and grilled steak flank. There will be door prizes, a cigar tent, a live DJ, and a free swag bag for the first 150 people. The Clubs at Quantico: 3017 Russel Rd., Quantico, $50–$55
Girlfriend In A Coma: A Tribute to Morrissey and The Smiths
April 4, 7 p.m.
Nearly three decades after The Smiths’ breakup, this cover band will relive classic renditions from the band and from Morrissey’s solo catalog such as “This Charming Man,” “Suedehead,” and “Girlfriend In A Coma.” The Vault at Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower, Tysons, tickets start at $19
Awesome Con 2025
April 4–6
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 obsessions. 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
CSA Shows
April 4–6
You won’t want to miss this sports collectibles event this weekend, with over 200 vendors with varying memorabilia and valuables, pro-athlete appearances and signings, rare photo opportunities, and other things to do. Dulles Expo Center: 4368 Chantilly Ctr., Chantilly, $15-20
Cirque Mechanics
April 5
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
Bluebells at the Bend
April 5, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Celebrate peak bloom of the Virginia Bluebells with a relaxing morning and afternoon of engaging activities including live animal exhibitors, wildlife walks, live music, kid’s arts and crafts, and more. Riverbend Park: 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great Falls, $10–$15
Mac & Cheese Festival
April 5, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
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
Petalpalooza
April 5, 1–9 p.m.
Enjoy this celebration for all ages, filled with live and roaming entertainment, hands-on art installations, interactive activities, and more things to do. Cap off the amazing evening with a great view of the Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks show. Capitol Riverfront Navy Yard Metro: 200 M St., Washington DC, free
Watercolor Workshop
April 5, 11a.m.–1 p.m.
Head to Hope Flower Farm & Winery for an afternoon of painting tulips, picking flowers, and sipping wine. The family-run farm is a picturesque working farm and event space in Loudoun County. Hope Flower Farm: 40905 Stumptown Rd., Waterford, $75
Art Blooms at Mosaic
April 5–6
Explore this two-day festival with over 170 vendors ranging from handmade and vintage goods to fresh produce and delicious snacks. There will be live music from local bands and musicians, a fun obstacle course with a mascot, and even a same-day puppy adoption booth. Mosaic District: 2905 District Ave., Fairfax, free
Spring Arts & Crafts Show
April 5–6
Dive into the world of creativity and inspiration with hundreds of other art enthusiasts at this weekend’s art event. More than 150 vendors will be in attendance, with merchandise including handmade and unique jewelry, home décor, and artwork. Fredericksburg Convention Center: 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy., Fredericksburg, $7–$8
Del Ray Dog Fest 2025
April 6, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
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
SOLAS 30th Anniversary Tour
April 6, 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate 30 years of music from this American-born band that performs Irish traditional music. Get ready for a night of timeless tunes spanning the group’s twelve studio albums. The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $35
Featured image courtesy Del Ray Dog Fest
