Do you have a talent you want to show off? Or maybe you’re looking for a casual night out that also supports singers, comedians, and poets in your community? If so, open mic nights are the perfect fit.
These community-driven events allow artists of all experience levels to perform in front of a crowd. Check out these six Northern Virginia establishments that regularly offer open mic nights.
Alexandria Bier Garden
Looking for a laugh? Head to Alexandria Bier Garden’s Monday night comedy open mic night. From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., new and experienced comics take the stage for a free show. Walk-ins are welcome and comedians can sign up day-of. The bar serves a full selection of German beers and craft brews, plus German-inspired bites like brats and pretzels. 710 King St., Alexandria
Busboys and Poets
This combination restaurant/bar/bookstore — with eight DMV locations — is a go-to spot for artists, poets, and musicians in the area. Open mics are a regular occurrence, like the Monday night session at the Shirlington location. Events are often hosted by local poets, and audiences can expect a mix of spoken-word performances and music. Multiple area locations
Caffè Amouri
Vienna’s neighborhood coffee shop hosts weekly open mic nights every Saturday, from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. An emcee hosts the event and serves as the main performer. Performers can sign up to play music, recite poetry, or do comedy. 107 Church St. NE, Vienna
Crooked Run Fermentation
Crooked Run, a brewery with locations in Leesburg and Sterling, has a full slate of events at each location nearly every day of the week. There are open mic nights Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Sterling and Monday nights at 6 p.m. in Leesburg. Also head here for karaoke, trivia, and live music. 22455 Davis Dr., Sterling; 205 Harrison St. SE, Leesburg
JVs Restaurant
JVs in Falls Church is known for its daily live music and homestyle cooking. Check the schedule online to attend one of its regular open mic events, where members of the community are invited to perform on stage. Or, stop in to hear local musicians any day of the week. 6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church
Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
Jimmy’s is known as a go-to neighborhood spot in Herndon for live music and regular community events. Stop by on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. for an open mic with no cover — full bands are welcome, and walk-ins are accepted based on availability. The bar also hosts trivia Tuesdays, live music on Thursdays, and weekend poker tournaments. 697 Spring St., Herndon
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
