The forecast calls for a break in the high temperatures, so now is the perfect time to enjoy some sun without the unbearable heat. Stop by and check out these 12 weekend events in Northern Virginia and DC, ranging from fairs and art exhibits to concerts and starlight.
Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival
July 31–August 3
For four days only, the Fairfax Fair will be hosting carnival rides and games, tractor demos, and old-fashioned family fun. The fair will also include multiple food vendors, live entertainment, and the chance to visit farm animals. Frying Pan Farm Park: 2709 W. Ox Rd., unlimited wristbands starting at $21.25
Lovely As a Tree
August 1–30, 7–9 p.m.
Step into a world inspired by the beauty, symbolism, and strength of trees at this exhibit by Del Ray Artisans. The month-long showcase features works from local artists in a variety of expressive mediums that explore our connection to nature through botanical themes. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Totally Trucks
August 1, 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Step right up and bring the kids for a look at the big trucks with the Reston Association. Wander around and see the trucks used in Reston including police and fire trucks. Each child will receive a Totally Trucks construction helmet. Reston Association’s Central Services Facility: 12250 Sunset Hills Rd., Reston, free
Sutton Foster & Kelli O’Hara
August 1, 8 p.m.
Sutton Foster and Kelli O’Hara, two prominent Tony Award–winning Broadway stars, are collaborating in their “One Night Only” concert with the National Symphony Orchestra. Sutton Foster is known for her role as Millie Dillmount in Thoroughly Modern Millie. Kelli O’Hara is known for her role as Anna Leonowens in The King and I. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $39
Wine and Fondue Festival
August 2, 1–6 p.m.
Wine and cheese lovers, come out to Shipgarten and enjoy the Wine and Fondue Festival. Enjoy sampling a wide variety of drinks and food with live music in the background. Compete in festival events for prizes or take pictures in a photo booth. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons, free
Starlight Cinema
August 2, 7 p.m.
Enjoy a movie under the stars as Starlight Cinema kicks off its summer outdoor movie theater series. This weekend, Fairfax County will be showing “Harold and the Purple Crayon” with kid-friendly band Rocknoceros performing beforehand. Sully Historic Site: 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, free
Bronco
August 2, 8 p.m.
Catch the legendary Mexican band Bronco in concert at EagleBank Arena. Known for its fusion of norteño, cumbia, and pop, Bronco brings decades of hits and high-energy performances on the stage. EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir, Fairfax, starting at $93
Stargazing at the Udvar-Hazy Center
August 2, 8:30–10:30 p.m.
Gaze into the stars with staff of the National Air and Space Museum for a view of the night sky through their telescopes. Staff will help you use the different telescopes to observe planets, stars, and the moon. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy., Chantilly, free
Virginia Vitesse
August 3, 4 p.m.
Watch the Virginia Vitesse, Loudoun County’s semi-professional women’s basketball team, compete against Greensboro Kaos this weekend. Join as the team defends its home court with speed, intensity, and heart. Virginia Academy Gymnasium: 19790 Ashburn Rd., Ashburn, $17.85, free for kids under 16
Swiss National Day
August 3, 11–3 p.m.
Celebrate Swiss National Day at The Swiss Bakery where there will be food, live entertainment, souvenirs, beer, and wine. Some Swiss food specialties include Zweifel paprika chips, Olma bratwurst, raclette, Swiss national bread, nussgipfel, fondant cookies, and Swiss drinks. The Swiss Bakery: 5224 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, free
Drive-By Truckers
August 3, 7 p.m.
The Anthem will be alive with the sound of this Southern band’s alternative-influenced rock and country tunes. The band will be joined by alternative folk-rock band Deer Tick, with Thelma and the Sleaze as a supporting act. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $57.75
Snakehead Roundup
August 3, 8–11 p.m.
Grab your fishing gear and go to Occoquan to fish exclusively for northern snakehead fish in River Mill Park. Fish the invasive species to help the Occoquan community. No registration is required, but you must have a valid fishing license. 407 Mill St., Occoquan, free
Feature image courtesy Jenny Anderson
