The first weekend in September brings a beautiful weather forecast and a plethora of fun weekend events to fill your time. From literary happenings to some highly anticipated concerts and festivals, here’s what’s happening in Northern Virginia and DC from September 5 to 7.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Concert
September 5, 8 p.m.
The final movie in the Harry Potter franchise will come to life on Wolf Trap’s stage with this screening accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $50
Ethel Cain
September 5, 8 p.m.
This American singer-songwriter is known for her alternative, gothic-rock sound in songs like “American Teenager.” She’s heading to The Anthem to perform songs from her new album Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You, a prequel to Preacher’s Daughter. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, $75
National Book Festival
September 6, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
Literary enthusiasts can hear from dozens of respected authors at this free annual festival, now in its 25th year. This year’s lineup includes big names like Geena Davis, Geraldine Brooks, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Allen Y. Lew Pl. NW, Washington, DC, free
DC State Fair
September 6, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
This is the District’s 16th annual state fair, where the community comes together to celebrate its “agricultural, culinary, and artistic talents.” There will be live music, demonstrations, and workshops, plus contests for produce, art, baked goods, and more. Byrant Street NE, Washington, DC, free
Rosslyn Jazz Fest
September 6, 1–7 p.m.
Get ready for a full day of music, food trucks, and other family-friendly fun at this free festival hosted by the Rosslyn Business Improvement District. Grammy-nominated group Southern Avenue will headline, and three additional bands will join them. Gateway Park: 1300 Langston Blvd., Arlington, free
The Lumineers
September 6, 6:30 p.m.
The indie-folk band The Lumineers will perform at Nationals Park on its Automatic World Tour, featuring songs from its most recent album, Automatic. Vance Joy and Chance Peña are supporting acts. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St., SE, Washington, DC, starting at $70
Fall Maker’s Market
September 6, noon–5 p.m.
The Made in ALX store will host a fall makers’ market at Port City Brewing Company, displaying more than 25 vendors of handcrafted local art. There will also be hands-on activities, like make-your-own charm bracelets. Port City Brewing: 3950 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria, free
U.S. Asian Fest
September 6
Stop by this festival for cultural performances, cosplay contests, a silent disco, a karaoke stage, and six main-stage performances. Plus, enjoy more than 100 food vendors from a wide range of cultures. Dulles Town Center: 21100 Dulles Town Cir., Sterling, 2 for $25, free for kids 12 and under
Cynthia Erivo with National Symphony Orchestra
September 6 & 7
Accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra, the Academy Award–nominated star of the hit movie Wicked lends her soaring vocals to Broadway standards. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $77
Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA
September 6–October 19
Bright lights, vibrant colors, and breathtaking acrobatics are in store under the big top tent in Tysons, where Cirque du Soleil will put on its new show, LUZIA. This performance depicts “a surreal escape to an imaginary Mexico — a sumptuously vibrant world suspended between dreams and reality.” Tysons Galleria: 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, starting at $60
Vietnamerica
September 7, 1 p.m.
This musical marks 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War by following the stories of three characters during the war. The musical was adapted from the award-winning documentary of the same name. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $72
Sierra Ferrell
September 7, 8 p.m.
Head to the Anthem to hear from Sierra Ferrell, a roots musician who hails from West Virginia. Nikki Lane — who appears on Ferrell’s 2024 album, Trail of Flowers — is the supporting act. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $53
Feature image courtesy The Library of Congress
