We have officially made it halfway through 2025! From star-studded concerts to Fourth of July fireworks, the second half of the year is set to be a memorable one. Here are 14 events you should consider attending in July.
July 2–7
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Immerse yourself in the Smithsonian’s annual Folklife Festival. This year’s theme is Youth and the Future of Culture and spotlights projects led, created, and presented by teens. It will include music, films and discussions, young craftsmanship, a presentation from the Museum of Contemporary American Teenagers, and different forms of youth expression. National Mall between Seventh and 12th streets, Washington, DC, free
July 4 & 7
Cowboy Carter Tour
Grammy Award–winning artist Beyoncé will hit the stage for her Cowboy Carter tour at Northwest Stadium. The star is known for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence. Northwest Stadium: 1600 Ring Rd., Landover, Maryland, starting at $547
July 4
Great Meadow’s July 4 Celebration 2025
Great Meadow’s Fourth of July Celebration marks its 40th anniversary. This event features a variety of activities, including family-friendly games, an air show, polo exhibitions, and fireworks. Great Meadows: 5089 Old Tavern Rd., The Plains, starting at $62 per car
July 5
West African Cultural Heritage Night
Celebrate 40 years of Soul In Motion, an African dance and drumming group, at Ossian Hall Park. Learn about the history of West African culture while dancing to drumbeats. Ossian Hall Park: 7900 Heritage Dr., Annandale, free
Through July 6
Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist
Elizabeth Catlett was known as an artist and lifelong activist who believed the power of art promoted social change. The National Gallery of Art’s current exhibit features more than 150 of Catlett’s creations, including rarely seen paintings and drawings. National Gallery of Art: Sixth Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC, free
July 10
Vince Gill
Vince Gill, a Grammy Award–winning country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist, is coming to the stage at Capital One Hall. He’s known for his No. 1 hits “I Still Believe in You” and “Don’t Let Our Love Start Slippin’ Away.” Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $102
July 10 & 31
Servant of Two Masters
Student performers will bring a new twist to this classic play. Join them as they tell the story of Truffaldino, a servant who tries to win financial success by tricking two masters. Tysons Corner Center Plaza: 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons, free
July 12
Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration
This year, Alexandria will celebrate its 276th birthday (and the United States’ 249th) at Oronoco Bay Park. The evening includes live music, food and drink vendors, and a grand finale of fireworks over the Potomac River at 9:30 p.m. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, free
July 12
Brotherhood of Rock Tour
The Brotherhood of Rock Tour features Styx and Kevin Cronin, the former singer of REO Speedwagon. This tour celebrates 25 years of musical friendship with special guest Don Felder, the former Eagles guitarist. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $30
July 17
National Symphony Orchestra Performs Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
Star Wars fans, gear up for a musical rendition of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. The National Symphony Orchestra is taking a musical approach to the classic movie, adding another level of suspense to important scenes. Watch the Oscar-nominated film come to life. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $57
July 22–26
Loudoun County Fair
Get ready for carnival rides, rodeos, magic shows, live music, and more county fair fun. The Loudoun County Fair is offering two new spin rides this year: Zeus and Flash Dance, both made for adrenaline junkies. 17558 Dry Mill Rd., Leesburg, starting at $16.50 for adults, $5.75 for kids
July 23
Chicago
Chicago will take the stage at Wolf Trap this summer and bring an energetic performance filled with hits from the band’s 55-year career. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $78
July 26
Beats, Bites, and Brews
This laid-back summer event features food vendors and a beer garden, plus live music and local arts and crafts vendors. 847 Pickett St., Alexandria, free
July 31
Keshi
American singer, songwriter, and producer Keshi is bringing his Requiem tour to Fairfax. You may recognize songs like “LIMBO” and “2 Soon” from the lo-fi hip-hop artist. EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, starting at $31
Feature image of Great Meadow’s July 4 Celebration courtesy Great Meadow
This story originally ran in our July Issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
