Need something to distract you from all those April showers? These 16 events going on around NoVA and DC this month are sure to do the trick. Check out parades, concerts, food festivals, and more April events.
April 1–4
2026 Occoquan Peeps Show
This springtime favorite transforms storefronts into colorful displays built entirely from marshmallow Peeps. From pop-culture scenes to local landmarks, vote for your favorites or create and enter your own diorama. Occoquan Town Hall, Occoquan, free
April 5
All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
The story of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg comes to life in this one-woman play. The production traces RBG’s career, resilience, and lasting impact on gender equality and the Supreme Court. Capital One Hall, Tysons, $55+
April 8
Cardi B
Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B is hitting the stage with her signature high-energy performance and chart-topping hits. Capital One Arena, Washington, DC, resale $290+
April 10–11
37th Annual Evening of Comedy
Get ready to laugh with Wolf Trap’s long-running comedy showcase. The event includes Jeff Stilson, producer of The Late Show with David Letterman and The Daily Show; Bobby Collin, former host of VH1’s Stand-Up Spotlight; and Monique Marvez, known for her viral Dry Bar Comedy special. The Barns at Wolf Trap, Vienna, $43+
April 11
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
DC’s most colorful spring tradition returns with giant balloons, elaborate floats, and marching bands along 10 blocks of Constitution Avenue. 16th and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
April 11–12
Nomini Bay Oyster Festival
Sip, slurp, and soak in the views at Dirt Farm Brewing. This event brings fresh Nomini Bay oysters and live music to the Bluemont brewery, pairing briny bites and craft beer with mountain scenery. Dirt Farm Brewing, Bluemont, free
April 12
Circa: Humans 2.0
Circus company Circa brings its internationally acclaimed Humans 2.0 to the stage in a jaw-dropping display of acrobatics. This performance weaves bodies, sound, and light into a tightly choreographed spectacle. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts, Fairfax, $38+
April 14
Paul Anka
The legendary crooner behind “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” and “My Way” brings decades of hits to the Warner Theatre. Warner Theatre, Washington, DC, $75+
April 16–26
Filmfest DC
The Washington DC International Film Festival showcases a global lineup of features, documentaries, and short films. Screenings and special events throughout the city spotlight emerging filmmakers and international cinema. Various locations, Washington, DC, $14
April 18–25
Historic Garden Week
Step inside some of Virginia’s most beautiful private gardens during the Garden Club of Virginia’s annual spring tour. There are self-guided tours in Old Town Alexandria, Leesburg, Fairfax County, and beyond. Locations vary, $43+
April 18–19
The DC Big Flea
Treasure hunters can browse antiques, vintage finds, and collectables from hundreds of vendors at this long-running market. From midcentury furniture to clothing and accessories, there’s plenty to discover. Manassas Mall, Manassas, $15
April 18–19
Pickle & International Food Festival
At this festival at Crooked Run Fermentation, sample pickle-inspired food, international cuisine, and craft beer while enjoying live entertainment. Crooked Run Fermentation, Sterling, $5+
April 18
Florence + The Machine
Florence + The Machine brings ethereal vocals and a theatrical stage presence to DC. The Grammy-nominated band blends indie rock anthems with sweeping visuals. Capital One Arena, Washington, DC, resale $350+
April 22–26
Smithsonian Craft Show
This showcase highlights the nation’s top contemporary craft artists. Browse fine jewelry, ceramics, glass, and textiles, and see work by ceramic artist Wayne Higby, the recipient of the 2026 Smithsonian Visionary Award. National Building Museum, Washington, DC, $25+
April 25
Purcellville Music and Arts Festival
Enjoy live bands, artisan vendors, food trucks, and family activities in downtown Purcellville, including performances by Sidetracked, Rowdy Ace Band, and Loudoun Valley High School. Fireman’s Field Park, Purcellville, free
April 28–May 3
The Book of Mormon
The Tony Award–winning Broadway smash heads to The National Theatre. The irreverent musical follows two missionaries on a wildly unexpected adventure. The National Theatre, Washington, DC, $90+
Feature image of Circa by Yaya Stempler
This story originally ran in our April 2026 issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
