The DMV is brimming with ways to make the most of your weekend. Whether you’re looking for live music, county fairs, or a dance festival, these 12 weekend events offer something for everyone.
Carmen
August 15, 8 p.m.
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
Nationals Postgame Summer Concert featuring Sam Hunt
August 15, game at 6:45 p.m.
What’s a better way to kick off the weekend than with an evening summertime baseball game and a concert afterwards? The Washington Nationals will play the Philadelphia Phillies. Then, Sam Hunt will perform as one of the last Nationals Postgame Summer Concert series. The concert is free with a ticket to the game. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC, starting at $25
Summer Habitat Detectives
August 16, 11 a.m.
Two Virginia master naturalists will lead a summer exploration walk for children along this short, gentle trail, showing kids how to find plants and animals using their five senses. The trail is also open for self-guided walks. Sky Meadows State Park: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, free
Flower Fairy Festival
August 16, 11 a.m.
Step into a whimsical world at the Flower Fairy Festival, where families can enjoy fairy-themed crafts, games, and storytelling. Dress up in your favorite wings or floral attire and explore the library’s magical themed decorations. This event is designed for children and families to celebrate imagination and nature. Montclair Library: 5049 Waterway Dr., Dumfries, free
Leesburg Festival of Crafts & Kites
August 16, 11 a.m.
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
Mary Chapin Carpenter
August 16, 8 p.m.
Enjoy an evening under the stars as five-time Grammy Award winner Mary Chapin Carpenter takes the stage at Wolf Trap. Known for her heartfelt lyrics and folk-country sound, Carpenter will perform favorites from her decades-long career.. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $54.50
Port to Port Beer Festival
August 16, 12–4 p.m.
Port City Brewing Company will host 19 visiting breweries at its second annual Port to Port Beer Festival. Stop by for unlimited samples of craft beer, plus two new brews from Port City. Port City Brewing Company: 3950 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria, starting at $50, $10 for designated driver tickets
Prince William County Fair
Through August 16
This weekend is your last chance to visit this large county fair. From motocross races and demolition derbies to craft shows and live music, there’s always something for everybody to enjoy. The fair will also include its annual PWC Fair Pageant. Prince William County Fairgrounds: 10624 Dumfries Rd., Manassas, adult day pass $20, child day pass $10, senior day pass $10
The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA
August 17, 8 p.m.
You can dance, you can jive, and you can have the time of your life at this ABBA tribute at Wolf Trap. Sing along to iconic ABBA hits like “Mamma Mia,” “Money, Money, Money,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $55.50
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi, and Miné Okubo
Through August 17
Go to the Smithsonian American Art Museum to see the works of three American artists of Japanese descent. Visit to trace their artistic development before, during, and after the mass incarceration and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II. Smithsonian American Art Museum: Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, free
Arlington County Fair
Through August 17
Stop by and enjoy the Arlington County Fair for classic carnival rides, stage performances, obstacle courses, and games. Feel free to also enjoy the fair foods like arepas, barbecue, and fried Oreos. The fair will also include a shopping adventure stroll through local vendor aisles to engage small business owners, sample honeys, and help support local artists. Thomas Jefferson Community Center: 3501 Second St. S., Arlington, free
DCBX 17 Festival
Through August 18
Dance all weekend at this Latin dance festival, featuring workshops in bachata, salsa, and kizomba, along with social dances that keep the music going late into the night. The festival also includes live music, DJ sets, and showcases from international artists. Crystal Gateway Mariott: 1700 Richmond Hwy., Arlington, prices vary
Feature image of Port to Port Beer Festival courtesy Port City Brewing Co.
