One of the best parts of summer are the many festivals that pop up just in time for the warm, sunny weather. If you’re a music lover, want to try a new local winery, or may be looking for the perfect family-friendly afternoon out, here are six NoVA festivals happening in July.
Todo Sonido Musical Festival
July 12 and 13
A two-day festival celebrating Latin American music comes to Wolf Trap the weekend of July 12 and 13. Expect to see artists like Juanes and Carlos Vives, and there will also be a Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods performance featuring Sonia De Los Santos (which requires a separate ticket). 1645 Trap Rd., Vienna
Midsummer Opera Dream
July 16–August 2
This all-ages opera festival at Dreamscape Performing Arts Center, Community Lutheran Church’s new venue, promises to bring local musicians, world-renowned performers, and more to the stage. There are a few family-friendly events happening during the festival, like Who’s Afraid of Opera?! a performance created specifically for young audiences and families to introduce them to the art form. 21014 Whitfield Pl., Sterling
Purcellville Wine & Food Festival
July 19, 2–8 p.m.
The 12th annual Purcellville Wine & Food Festival typically draws thousands. Enjoy live music, dozens of vendors showcasing their best wines, food, and more. The festival takes place in Fireman’s Field Park. 250 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville
FXBG Summer Wine Festival
July 19, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Spotsylvania Town Centre will be hosting this wine festival. Local vineyards will be featured, and local stores and restaurants will be open for shopping and dining. The event is part of Cheers Festivals, which puts on craft beverage and foodie events. 137 Spotsylvania Mall Dr., Fredericksburg
Third Anniversary Petting Zoo
July 20, noon–6 p.m.
Shipgarten in Tysons Corner is hosting a kids and family festival featuring a petting zoo. In addition to adorable animals, there will also be moon bounces, live music, an outdoor playground, and a performance by magician Jake the Great. The petting zoo will be two minutes per round, with unlimited turns. 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons
Beats, Bites, and Brews
July 26, 11 a.m.
Dubbed “the perfect summer picnic,” Alexandria’s Beats, Bites, and Brews promises just that: lots of live music, good food and refreshing beer. There will also be local arts and crafts vendors selling their wares. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria
Feature image courtesy Purcellville Wine & Food Festival