The dog days of summer have arrived! These August events in Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, can help you get outside and beat the late summer slump. Here are the best concerts, festivals, and performances to add to your calendar this month.
Otakon
July 31–August 2
Anime fans, gamers, and pop culture enthusiasts can head to this annual convention dedicated to Asian media, entertainment, and fandom. Attendees can enjoy three days of manga, music, movies, and video games. Washington Convention Center, DC, $45+
Beats, Bites, and Brews
August 1
Spend a summer evening in Alexandria with live music, food, and craft beverages. This outdoor event brings together local flavors, artisans, and entertainment. Josh Carlyle Square Park, Old Town Alexandria, free
Graham Nash
August 3–4
This two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee brings his Live on Tour show to The Birchmere. The singer-songwriter is known for his work with Crosby, Stills, & Nash and The Hollies. The Birchmere, Alexandria, $107+
WWE
August 6
WWE fans can prepare for an evening of wrestling action at EagleBank Arena. Catch your favorite wrestler superstars as they perform a mix of in-ring competition and ongoing storylines. EagleBank Arena, Fairfax, $56+
EleFest
August 7-9
Celebrate elephants, culture, and conservation at this Smithsonian National Zoo festival. Visitors can see the newest elephant calf, Linh Mai, and participate in a happy hour and yoga with the elephants. There will also be tradition dances, story times, and more. Smithsonian National Zoo, Washington DC, prices vary
2026 Cardboard Boat Regatta
August 8
Head over to Lake Anne and see which cardboard boats will float at this annual regatta. Teams will race their decked-out homemade vessels for an afternoon of sea-buckling excitement. Reston Museum, Reston, free
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
August 14
Listen to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony performed by The National Symphony Orchestra and The Washington Chorus at Wolf Trap. The program includes the rarely performed “Elegiac Song” and culminates with the composer’s famous “Ode to Joy.” Wolf Trap, Vienna, $57+
Alexandria Sidewalk Sale
August 14–16
Old Town’s boutiques and shops spill outdoors during this seasonal event. Shoppers can browse special deals and discounts while exploring one of the region’s most walkable districts. Old Town Alexandria, free
Foo Fighters and Queens of the Stone Age
August 17
Rock takes over Nationals Park when the Foo Fighters — headed by NoVA native Dave Grohl — headline a concert with special guests Queens of the Stone Age. Nationals Park, Washington DC, $125+
Diana Ross
August 19
Music icon Diana Ross heads to Wolf Trap for a night filled with songs from her legendary career. Hear crowd favorite tunes, from “I’m Coming Out” to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.” Wolf Trap, Vienna, $65+
Leesburg Festival of Kites & Crafts
August 22
Colorful kites and handmade creations take to the sky at this Leesburg festival. This event combines artisan vendors with arts and crafts. It’s fun for the whole family. Ida Lee Park, Leesburg, free
Freedom250 Grand Prix
August 22–23
IndyCar racing comes to the nation’s capital with the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. The event celebrates America’s 250th anniversary and marks a new race weekend for the series. Washington, DC, free
Gregory Alan Isakov
August 26
Singer-songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov is joined by the National Symphony Orchestra for a night to remember. Get carried away by Isakov’s folk-inspired sound, accompanied by orchestral arrangements. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $61+
PlayPalooza
August 29
Families can enjoy games, activities, and entertainment during PlayPalooza featuring bounce houses, obstacle courses, foam parties, a Truck Touch Zone, meet-and-greets with popular kids’ characters. Springfield Plaza, Springfield, free
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
August 29
Take your taste buds on a global journey at the Around the World Cultural Food Festival. The waterfront celebration features international cuisine, cultural performances, and family-friendly entertainment. Oronoco Bay Park, Alexandria, free
James Taylor
August 30; September 1–2
James Taylor returns to Wolf Trap for three performances with his All-Star Band. Fans can hear classics like “Fire and Rain,” “How Sweet It Is,” and “Carolina in My Mind” during these late summer concerts. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $71+
Feature image courtesy Lake Anne Cardboard Regatta
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
