Don’t let the heat keep you home! These July events in Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, are the perfect excuse to get outside. Whether you’re looking to soak in the sun or seeking solace from the heat, here are some of the best festivals, performances, and concerts to fill up your month.
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Exhibitions Reimagined
Opening July 1
Discover five new exhibits just in time for the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum’s 50th anniversary. Visitors can explore space, technology, and World War II history with interactive galleries and artifacts. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, DC, free
Fourth of July Fireworks on The National Mall
July 4
Head to the heart of the nation’s capital for a night filled with illuminating fireworks honoring America’s 250th birthday. Visitors can watch the display with the monuments and memorials in the background. The National Mall, Washington, DC, free
An American Celebration at Mount Vernon
July 4
Celebrate our nation’s milestone at the home of its first commander in chief. Enjoy hot air balloon demonstrations, musical performances, magic and puppet shows, and more. Be sure to catch the daytime fireworks over the Potomac. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon, $30
Sarah McLachlan
July 5
Listen to some of the Canadian singer-songwriter’s hits live, including “Possession” and “I Will Remember You,” along with tracks from her latest album, Better Broken. Allison Russell, a founding member of Our Native Daughters, will open the night. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $66+
Louis Tomlinson
July 7
The former One Direction member brings his How Did We Get Here? world tour to DC. Expect a night packed with fan-favorite solo tracks and plenty of energy from one of pop’s most devoted fandoms. The Anthem, Washington, DC, $95+
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
July 10–19
Step into Willy Wonka’s chocolate world with this theatrical performance. The story is set to an original score featuring songs like “Pure Imagination” from the 1971 film. Hylton Performing Arts Center, Manassas, $25+
Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration
July 11
Find live music, food and drink vendors, and a firework display at this Alexandria birthday party with jaw-dropping views. Oronoco Bay Park, Alexandria, free
Ne-Yo & Akon
July 17
Spend the night grooving to Grammy Award winners Ne-Yo and Akon at their Nights Like This tour. Expect a night packed with early-2000s hits to sing along to, plus newer songs. Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, $47+
Lyfe Jennings
July 16
R&B singer Lyfe Jennings is heading to The Birchmere for a soulful evening of soothing vocals and heartfelt hits. The Birchmere, Alexandria, $75+
Purcellville Wine & Food Festival
July 18
Indulge in great food and wine at this annual festival. Visitors can enjoy face painting, meet local artists, listen to live music, and browse a selection of vendors. A souvenir glass comes with the purchase of a drink ticket. Fireman’s Field Park, Purcellville, $12+
Chicago & Styx
July 20
Take a trip down rock and roll memory lane with legendary bands Chicago and Styx. Sing along to hits like “Renegade,” “Babe,” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” for an incredible evening of classic rock. Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, $47+
Loudoun County Fair
July 21–25
Head to Loudoun County for this annual fair featuring live music, a demolition derby, a magic show, a carnival, and more. The fair also features a blue-ribbon showcase, Miss Loudoun pageant, pie and watermelon eating contests, and pig scramble. Loudoun County Fairground, Leesburg, $16.50+
Mubadala Citi DC Open
July 25–August 2
Catch one of the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournaments held at a public park. Spectators can watch the men’s or women’s tournament while enjoying a variety of food and drinks. Single session, full tournament, and VIP tickets are available for purchase. Rock Creek Park Tennis Center, Washington, DC, prices vary
Fairfax County Carnival and Fair
July 30–August 2
Bring the entire family for some old-fashioned fun with rides, games, tractor demos, farm animals, and classic fair snacks. Regular and unlimited ride wristbands are available online and day-of. Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, free
Feature image courtesy U.S. National Park Service
This story originally ran in our July issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
