As the summer vacations come to an end and kids get ready to go back to school, it’s time to make the most of the final days of summer. From big-name performers to food and craft festivals, here are 16 events to add to your calendar this August.
August 1–30
Lovely As a Tree
Step into a world inspired by the beauty, symbolism, and strength of trees at this art 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
August 1
Sutton Foster & Kelli O’Hara
Sutton Foster and Kelli O’Hara, two Tony Award–winning Broadway stars, are collaborating in a one-night-only concert with the National Symphony Orchestra. Foster is known for her role as Millie Dillmount in Thoroughly Modern Millie while O’Hara is known for her role as Anna Leonowens in The King and I. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $39
August 2
Bronco
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 to the stage. EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, starting at $93
August 7
Luke Bryan
Country superstar Luke Bryan brings his chart-topping songs to Merriweather Post Pavilion. With hits like “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)” and “Play It Again,” Bryan’s dynamic performances and crowd-pleasing anthems have made him a staple of modern country music. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland, starting at $69
August 9
Taste Leesburg
Sample the best of Loudoun County at Taste Leesburg, an evening filled with local food, drinks, artisans, vendors, and live entertainment. This annual event transforms the downtown area into a lively street festival. Market and King streets, Leesburg, free
August 9
Cardboard Boat Regatta
Watch as creative teams race handmade boats built entirely from cardboard across Lake Anne. Hosted by the Reston Museum, this event features music and lakeside fun. Lake Anne Plaza: 1639 Washington Plz. N., Reston, free
August 12
Jonas Brothers
Rock out at Jiffy Lube with the Jonas Brothers, known for pop-rock hits and popular Disney Channel shows and movies. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $30
August 14
Carmen
Experience the passion and unforgettable music of Carmen under the stars at Wolf Trap. The new production of Bizet’s classic opera brings drama and romance to the stage. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $39
August 14
The Road to the Ramble
Get a taste of the upcoming Ramble Festival (set for October in Maryland) at this special preview concert featuring a lineup of Americana, bluegrass, and jam-band favorites. Expect soulful harmonies, rich instruments, and a lively crowd. The Vault at Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, $28.50
August 16
Leesburg Festival of Crafts & Kites
Enjoy family-friendly outdoor fun with handmade goods from local artisans, food vendors, and colorful kites flying through the sky. Ida Lee Park: 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg, free
August 19–September 7
PARADE
Don’t miss the Tony Award–winning revival of Parade, the powerful musical by Jason Robert Brown and Alfred Uhry. Set in early 20th-century Georgia, the show tells a true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager accused of a crime, and explores themes of justice, prejudice, and resilience. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49–$159
August 20
Train
Hit-making pop-rock band Train brings its energy to the stage with songs like “Drops of Jupiter,” “Hey, Soul Sister,” and “Drive By.” Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $62.50
August 22–September 7
State Fairs: Growing American Craft
Step into the colorful world of American craftsmanship with this new exhibit. Featuring more than 100 works spanning textiles, woodwork, and ceramics, the exhibit celebrates the artistry, heritage, and community spirit nurtured by state fair traditions across the country. Renwick Gallery: 1661 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
August 23
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
Take your taste buds on a global journey with international cuisine from more than 40 different countries, along with cultural performances, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities — all against the scenic backdrop of the Potomac River. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, free
August 27–31
DC JazzFest
Celebrate the soulful music of jazz at this five-day festival. The event features a lineup of legendary artists, emerging talent, and outdoor concerts along the waterfront. The Wharf: 1001 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC, prices vary by event
August 28
The Black Keys
Rock duo The Black Keys takes the stage in Columbia for a night of bluesy riffs and garage-rock anthems. The Grammy-winning band is known for electric live performances.
Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland, starting at $51.15
Feature image of PARADE by Joan Marcus
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
