It might not be summer yet, but the region is gearing up with plenty of summer-like fun around Northern Virginia this May. From food and beer festivals to events showcasing local artists, here are the best May events to add to your calendar.
May 2–4
National Harbor Boat Show
Kick off boating season with a varied lineup of more than 250 marine vessels, from sailboats to motor-powered. Explore and even test boats while enjoying live entertainment, vendor tents with boating gear, food trucks, samples from local wineries, curated cocktails, and more. 165 Waterfront St., National Harbor, Maryland, starting at $47
May 3
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
Enjoy the great outdoors with as much barbecue, bourbon, and beer as you can imagine. There will be a “Shrine of Swine” featuring whole hogs, bluegrass music, all-you-can-taste beer and bourbon samplings, and games like cornhole and giant Jenga. Prince William County Fairgrounds: 10624 Dumfries Rd., Manassas, starting at $45
May 3–4
Alexandria Old Town Springtime Art Festival
Embrace spring in a beautiful park setting surrounded by art at this popular festival. Mingle with local artists showcasing fine arts and crafts including sculptures, ceramics, and paintings. John Carlyle Square: 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, free
May 9–18
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Fans of the young adult book and movie series will love this live musical adaptation of the fantasy adventure story. Watch as Percy Jackson adventures to find Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt and restores order between the Greek gods in an electrifying evening of action, comedy, and catchy melodies. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, $25
May 10
Art in the Burg
Celebrate local artists at this outdoor event, featuring handcrafted works of pottery, paintings, jewelry, photography, and candles. Expect delectable street food, craft beer, live music and dance, improv, and storytelling. South Madison and Federal streets, Middleburg, free
May 10
Tacos & Beer Festival
Get your tastebuds ready to sample delicious tacos and beers from area vendors and breweries. Savor the flavors while listening to great music and enjoying friendly competitions. A VIP ticket adds tequila and margarita samplings. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $45–$75
May 17
2025 Walk Like MADD
Slip on your walking shoes and raise funds and awareness for an important cause in this charitable walk that raised more than $3 million last year. Help continue the fight to keep our communities safe from drunk and drugged driving. Algonkian Regional Park: 47001 Fairway Dr., Sterling, free
May 17–18
Tephra ICA Arts Festival
More than 200 artisans from across the country showcase original artwork at this annual outdoor event now in its 34th year. It’s a must for art enthusiasts of all levels. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston, free
May 18
Asian Festival on Main
Immerse yourself in Asian culture at this event featuring more than 10 food trucks and 60 food vendors, over 70 non-food vendors and exhibits, live performances and music, karaoke, cosplay contests, and a beer garden. 10398 Main St., Fairfax, free
May 20
Five for Fighting with String Quartet
Platinum-selling, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Five for Fighting brings his passionate storytelling to NoVA. Get ready for an evening of memorable hits songs such as “Superman” and “100 Years.” The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, starting at $45
May 23
Napoleon Dynamite 20th Anniversary Celebration
Two decades after its release, relive the adored indie comedy with members of the original cast. A full screening of the cult classic will begin the evening, followed by an immersive discussion with actors Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, and Jon Gries. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $34
May 26
Falls Church Memorial Day Parade & Festival
Honor fallen U.S. military personnel by celebrating their memory with a community festival. Start the day with a 3K Fun Run, followed by a Memorial Day ceremony and a community parade. There will also be live entertainment, inflatables, and food vendors. Falls Church City Hall: 300 Park Ave., Falls Church, free
May 30 and 31
The Avett Brothers
The three-time Grammy nominees return to Wolf Trap with a blend of American folk, rock, and bluegrass that made them internationally known. Brimming with heartfelt lyrics and dynamic energy, catch one of their two performances. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, wolftrap.org, starting at $49
May 31
A Fest Less Ordinary
Bring your chairs and blankets for a fun-filled day in the heart of western Loudoun County. The event benefits A Farm Less Ordinary, a nonprofit offering employment to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Celebrate good veggies and vibes with local craft beers and wines, along with diverse American music, food trucks, and artisan vendors. 17281 Simmons Rd., Purcellville, $40–$50, kids 13 and under free
Feature image courtesy Asian Festival on Main
This story originally ran in our May Issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
