On the lookout for fun, outdoor activities that won’t break the bank? You might want to look right at home. Many neighborhoods in NoVA host special events like block parties and free concerts throughout the spring and summer. Mark your calendar for these exciting hometown events.
Reston Town Center Concerts on the Town
Saturdays May 16–August 22, 7:30–10 p.m.
Reston Town Center’s Concerts on the Town series returns for its 33rd season. Every Saturday, enjoy a free concert at the Pavilion. The series will kick off this season as part of the Tephra ICA Arts Festival on May 16. Kids and dogs are welcome. Reston Town Center: 1818 Discovery St., Reston
Herndon Friday Night Live
Fridays May 22–September 4, 6:30–10 p.m.
Herndon’s popular live music series is back, with free concerts on the Herndon Town Green every Friday. It kicks off May 22 with a performance by Lost in Paris, followed by Under the Covers on May 29. Beer and wine are for sale, as well as concessions from local restaurants like Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern and Toriz Tacos. Herndon Town Green: 777 Lynn St., Herndon
Fairfax City Rock the Block
Fourth Friday of the month June–October, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Every fourth Friday of the month, May to October, you can find live music, a beer garden, and food vendors in Fairfax’s Old Town Square. Remember to bring a chair or blanket, and leave the pets at home. The Reflex plays May 22 and Perfekt Blend plays June 26. Old Town Square: 10415 North St., Fairfax
Summer JAMS
Every Saturday June–August, except July 4 and August 8, 7 p.m.
Downtown Leesburg will hold a weekly summer concert series on Saturdays. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. This year, guests over age 21 are permitted to bring their own beer and wine. Shows will be cancelled in the case of inclement weather. Leesburg Town Green: 25 W. Market St., Leesburg
Chillin’ on Church
Third Fridays, June–September, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Vienna’s summertime block parties rock. Expect a lineup of six to 10 food trucks, wine and beer, and live music. Church Street, Vienna
Fort Hunt Concerts
Sundays June 7–August 30, 7 p.m.
Everyone is welcome at the weekly community concerts in Alexandria’s Fort Hunt Park. This summer’s lineup includes the National Concert Band on June 7 and the Mandoleers on June 14. Concerts take place at Pavilion A. There will be some picnic tables available, but visitors should plan to bring their own chair or blanket. Concerts are free and do not require tickets or reservations. Fort Hunt Park: 8999 Fort Hunt Rd., Alexandria
Fridays at the Fountain
Fridays July 17–August 21, 5:30–8 p.m.
On Fridays, the Water Park at National landing transitions from an outdoor food hall to a community gathering space. The weekly event features a different performer, across a variety of genres, each week. Before you settle in for the show, grab a bite or drink from the eight options in the park. Water Park: 1601 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Manassas First Fridays
First Friday of every month, 6–9 p.m.
Once a month, Historic Downtown Manassas shuts down Center Street to make space for a lively night of fun. Restaurants offer specialty food and drinks, which you can enjoy while you stroll the block. Historic Downtown Manassas
Leesburg First Fridays
First Friday of every month except January, times vary
On the first Friday of every month, downtown Leesburg is full of live music, art exhibits, wine tastings, and more. Plus, some of the restaurants and boutiques stay open late and often offer special deals. Downtown Leesburg
FXBG First Fridays
First Friday of every month, 5–9 p.m.
Fredericksburg’s First Friday events celebrate the city’s downtown community with extended business hours, street performances, and art activities. Visitors can purchase drinks at participating restaurants and enjoy them while walking around within the marked areas. A free trolley shuttles guests around the arts and business district until 8:30 p.m. Downtown Fredericksburg
Feature image of Reston Concerts on the Town courtesy IRL Agency/Hawkeye Johnson
