TOTS
Rocknoceros
Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
For anyone with children in the area, Rocknoceros is a fan favorite. Join the band of three every Friday morning to jam out to catchy tunes in lively performances. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna; jamminjava.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Apple Gala & Fresh Cider Festival
Saturday & Sundays in September
Celebrate apple picking season by learning how to make fresh apple cider with fresh picked apples. In the mood for more fall fun? Navigate a corn maze, browse a local farmers market and get lost in 5 acres of farm filled fun. // Great Country Farms: 18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont; greatcountryfarms.com
ART EXHIBITS
Building Worlds
Through Sept. 15
While usually abstract in meaning, science fiction, scientific fact and fantasy can play a role in changing the nature of human fears, ideals and deep questions on what it means to be human. Through their own mediums, the artists in this exhibit hope to create their own worlds to question the naturally accepted assumptions around history and truth. // Greater Reston Arts Center: 12001 Market St., Suite 103, Reston; restonarts.org
PERFORMING ARTS
A Chorus Line
Through Sept. 16
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the Tony Award for Best Musical, this 1975 show follows Broadway gypsies as they give it their all to audition for an unnamed musical. // Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg; riversidedt.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Passion
Through Sept. 23
Described as “exultantly dramatic, this is the most thrilling piece of theatre on Broadway” by The New York Times, Passion follows an army captain that gets involved in a scandalous love triangle once transferred to a military outpost in Italy. // Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; sigtheatre.org
ART EXHIBITS
A Breath of Korea
Through Sept. 29
Born in Korea, artist Mook Jae has been familiar with Asian art traditions ever since she was a little girl. Now, she seeks to blend her Korean heritage with Western influencers in her calligraphy, frequently incorporating English words into beautifully detailed ink prints. // ArtSpace Herndon: 750 Center St., Herndon; artspaceherndon.org
ART EXHIBITS
2018 Visiting Artists Group Exhibition
Through Sept. 30
Designed as a means of professional development for rising artists, the Visiting Artist Program invites artists from around the country to come and showcase their work to the NoVA region. Exhibits range in content from sculpture and watercolor to fine art and photography. // Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; torpedofactory.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
History Has Its Eyes on You: George Washington & Alexander Hamilton
Through Oct. 1
George Washington and Alexander Hamilton were close friends. As two of the nation’s founding fathers, their partnership was vital in forming the country we know today. Learn more about their unique friendship through a display of artifacts, from handwritten letters from Hamilton himself and an engraving of Hamilton standing beside Washington at Yorktown. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Hamilton BFF & Frenemies
Sept. 1, 10-11 a.m.
Watch Hamilton’s world come to life as his BFFs and frenemies tell their stories and share how they dealt with the realities of early America and strived to create a new nation. Hear from Washington, Lafayette, Jefferson, Madison and Burr along with others that worked at the tavern. // Gadsby’s Tavern Museum: 134 N. Royal St., Alexandria; apps.alexandriava.gov
MUSEUM EVENTS
Mysteries of the Murals Walking Tour
Sept. 1, 12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Even for those familiar with the town of Warrenton, there is more than meets the eye. Walking alongside author David Goetz, learn more about three distinct murals throughout the city and what they mean and how they’ve left their mark on the city. // The Fauquier History Museum at The Old Jail: 10 Ashby St., Warrenton; visitfauquier.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
Freedom House Museum Open
Sept. 1, 1-5 p.m.
Once part of a large complex that was used for slave trading, hear first-person accounts of enslaved men and women in the basement of the Freedom House. Learn how the brutal institution was implemented in the city of Alexandria and its role on trade in the region. // Freedom House Museum: 1315 Duke St., Alexandria; apps.alexandriava.gov
MUSIC
Ziggy Marley & Steel Pulse with Tribal Seeds
Sept. 1, 7 p.m.
As a Grammy winner, Emmy winner, humanitarian, singer, songwriter and producer, Ziggy Marley is one of the most esteemed reggae artists in the world. Joined by his father’s, Bob Marley, favorite band, Steel Pulse, Marley will put on a performance that echoes themes of love, peace and justice for everyone. // Filene Center: 1551 Trap Road, Vienna; wolftrap.org
MUSIC
Ustad Shafaat Khan
Sept. 1, 7:30-9 p.m.
The musical stylings of the Eastern and Western hemisphere are very different to the normal ear. However, blended by Ustad Shafaat Khan, the two create a diverse array of sounds that bridge gaps between cultures and people. You have never heard American Folk music sound this way before. // Franklin Park Performing & Visual Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville; franklinparkartscenter.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Blacksmithing Demonstrations at Colvin Run Mill
Sept. 2, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
In the early 1800s, blacksmiths were instrumental in crafting weapons and fine tools for townships and villages. Now, travel back in time and see a blacksmith ignite his forge and craft iron tools and utensils. // Colvin Run Mill: 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls;
fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvin-run-mill
TOTS
Labor Day Farm Fun Day
Sept. 3, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
For all animal lovers, use Labor Day to spend the day interacting with a variety of farm animals from goats to llamas. Not a fan of animals? Tour the greenhouse, explore nearby trails or fish along Lake Manassas. // Little Goat Farm at the Lake: 8954 Burwell Road, Nokesville; littlegoatfarmatthelake.com
PETS
Yappy Hour
Sept. 3, 5-7 p.m.
Delicious craft beers from Germany and adorable dogs? Who could pass that up? Enjoy over 100 craft beers while hanging out with the Ambassador Pit Bull Alliance canine volunteer team. Doggie treats are also available. // Tysons Biergarten: 8346 Leesburg Pike, Tysons; tysonsbiergarten.com
MUSIC
5 Seconds of Summer: Meet You There Tour
Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Heralded as the “biggest new rock act in the world” by Rolling Stone, 5 Seconds of Summer is the only band in history to see its first two full-length studio albums enter the Billboard Top 200 at No. 1. With hits like “Want You Back,” “Amnesia” and “She’s Kinda Hot,” 5SOS is ready to get fans singing along to their favorite jams. // Filene Center: 1551 Trap Road, Vienna; wolftrap.org
MUSIC
John Craigie
Sept. 6, 8 p.m.
Embodying Americana style with rustic flare, John Craigie is known for his moving performances and gifted songwriting abilities. Named “the love child of John Prine and Mitch Hedberg” from band The Strangers, Craigie is a one-of-a-kind artist with a unique musical soul. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna; jamminjava.com
MUSIC
Alanis Morissette
Sept. 6, 8-11 p.m.
With 60 million album sales worldwide, Alanis Morissette has skyrocketed to one of the most influential singer-songwriters in contemporary music. From performing with fellow pop artist Demi Lovato at the 2015 American Music Awards to winning seven Grammy awards, Morissette proves that she can belt as high as the bar she sets for herself. // Filene Center: 1551 Trap Road, Vienna; wolftrap.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Beth Stelling Live
Sept. 7-8, Times vary
Named the best stand-up comedian in Chicago by the Chicago Reader in 2010, Stelling has proved she can make people laugh. She performed stand-up on Jimmy Kimmel Live, appeared on Comedy Central’s @midnight, Chelsea Lately and The Pete Holmes Show, and is featured in episode five of Netflix’s The Standups. // Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington; acdh.arlingtondrafthouse.com
ART EXHIBITS
Inspired By
Sept. 7-8, 8 p.m.
A dazzling cabaret featuring Stephen Gregory Smith paired with the music of Matt Conner, Inspired By weaves together a narrative that details the inspirations of shows that Smith and Conner have accomplished together. Watch as their life moments become precursors to some of the best theatrical numbers in recent memory. // Creative Cauldron: 410 S. Maple Ave., Suite 116, Falls Church; creativecauldron.org
MUSIC
Dierks Bentley: Mountain High Tour 2018
Sept. 7, 7 p.m.
Coming off the success of his ninth studio album, The Mountain, Dierks Bentley is ready to bring his own brand of country music flare to the DMV. Entertainment Weekly calls this album “one of the most joyful, brazen and cohesive collections of his career.” // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow; livenation.com
MUSIC
The Stranger: A Tribute to Billy Joel
Sept. 7, 9 p.m.
Billy Joel is one of the world’s most impactful musicians, with over 150 million record sales worldwide. With almost identical vocals, an electrifying stage presence and impressive musicality, The Stranger will pay tribute to Joel by performing all his hits and more. // The State Theatre: 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church; thestatetheatre.com
PERFORMING ARTS
August: Osage County
Sept. 8-23
Winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best New Play, this play explores the dark inner workings behind the Weston family, who return to rural Oklahoma to care for their mother, Violet, after the family patriarch disappears. // The Little Theatre of Alexandria: 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria; thelittletheatre.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
In the Footsteps of Washington and Rochambeau Bus Tour
Sept. 8, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Trace George Washington’s history along one of America’s oldest roads, the King’s Highway. Starting as a Native American hunting path, follow the road throughout Prince William County while stopping at sites related to Washington’s life. // Rippon Lodge Historic Site: 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge; pwcgov.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Stonebridge Fall Fest and Chili Cook-Off
Sept. 8, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Think you can make the best chili in Prince William County? Prove it. Celebrate the love for fall and delicious, homemade chili by competing against other chili fanatics while browsing local vendors and exhibitors from the area. // Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center: 14900 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge; stonebridgeptc.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Rosslyn Jazz Fest 2018
Sept. 8, 1-7 p.m.
Attracting more than 10,000 fans last year, the Jazz Fest is back and ready to take over Gateway Park yet again. This year’s performers include Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Orquesta Akokan, True Loves and Aztec Sun. // Gateway Park: 1300 Lee Highway, Rosslyn; rosslynva.org
ART EXHIBITS
Second Saturday Art Walk
Sept. 8, 6-9 p.m.
Meet nearly 100 artists, stroll through 12 galleries, enjoy musical performances of various genres and savor cuisine and drink from around the world. // Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton; workhousearts.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Irish Country Dancing
Sept. 8, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Irish country dancing, a practice that links back to ancient Celtic dancing during ceremonious services, has been prevalent throughout history. These dances were commonly used to celebrate happy occasions or mourn the dead. Join the Ancient Order of Hibernians and witness a tradition that dates back hundreds of years. // Green Acres Center: 4401 Sideburn Road, Fairfax; fairfaxva.gov
MUSIC
Gary Allan
Sept. 8, 7 p.m.
Described by Entertainment Weekly as “dark and dreamy” and by Rolling Stone as a “maverick,” Gary Allan’s combination of soulful vocals and meaningful lyrics make him synonymous with a present-day outlaw. // Marks & Harrison Amphitheatre: 5030 Gordon W. Shelton Blvd., Fredericksburg; celebratevirginiaafterhours.com
MUSIC
Music Under the Stars: Miguel Aubertin
Sept. 8, 7-9 p.m.
Nothing pairs better with wine and an end-of-summer night than the smooth sounds of reggae. From the island of St. Lucia, Aubertin brings island vibes wherever he goes. For extra tropical flare, try the Jamaican curried chicken skewers over mango rice. Who said the islands have to be so far? // 868 Estate Vineyards: 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Purcellville; 868estatevineyards.com
MUSIC
4U: A Symphonic Celebration of Prince
Sept. 8, 8-11 p.m.
Prince’s passing was a devastating loss to the music industry. As one of the most heralded showmen of all time, Prince’s music had a direct impact on all aspects of life. 4U, the only estate-approved celebration, will make sure Prince’s music carries on to the next generation. Hear his greatest hits as well as some of his hidden gems. // Filene Center: 1551 Trap Road, Vienna; wolftrap.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Eighth Annual Polo Classic
Sept. 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
With central Asian origins, polo has existed since the sixth century B.C. Once used as a training game for cavalry units, polo is now considered one of the most unique sports in the U.S. Enjoy a day of high-stakes polo, all supporting the National Sporting Library & Museum. // Great Meadow: 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains; nationalsporting.org
TOTS
Zig Zag the Magic Man at Lubber Run
Sept. 9, 11 a.m.
Rated as the most popular and entertaining magician in the DMV by locals, Zig Zag the Magic Man is bringing his wildly fun, engaging show to Arlington. With interactive acts and engaging content material, Zig Zag puts on a memorable performance for the entire family. // Lubber Run Amphitheatre: 200 N. Columbus St., Arlington; arts.arlingtonva.us/lubber-run
MUSIC
The Choir
Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m.
Grammy-nominated band The Choir has always been one to stretch the imagination when it comes to the sounds they produce. Here to celebrate the release of their new album, Bloodshot, and remix previous classics from Kisses and Killers, The Choir is sure to leave both old and new fans surprised with what they come up with. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna; jamminjava.com
TOTS
Reptiles Alive
Sept. 12, 10:30 a.m.
Featuring over 40 species of reptiles, from snakes and frogs to crocodilians and lizards, Reptiles Alive allows kids the chance to interact with these animals hands-on in a safe learning environment. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit as the interactive fountain will be open to play in following the event. // Fairfax Corner: 4100 Monument Corner Drive, Fairfax; reptilesalive.com
MUSEUM EVENTS
Ford Evening Book Talk: Creating Capitol Hill
Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
Capitol Hill is one of the most powerful places in the country. Recount its unique history with authors Charles Carter, William diGiacomantonio, Pamela Scott and Don Hawkins and leave with a new understanding of what really gives the Hill its power. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
ART EXHIBITS
The 2018 Athenaeum Invitational: The Cabinet of Curiosities
Sept. 13-Nov. 11
Originally made popular during the Renaissance in Europe, cabinets of curiosities are collections of objects that vary in theme from nature and science to religious relics and the arts. Before the advent of public museums, these cabinets were often symbols of prestige and wealth. Immerse yourself in a diverse array of artifacts and celebrate the immense diversity of the collection. // Athenaeum: 201 Prince St., Alexandria; nvfaa.org
MUSIC
Ozzy Osbourne: No More Tours 2
Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m.
“I’ve been blessed with an amazing life,” says Ozzy Osbourne as he prepares for his final tour. “I’m looking at this final tour as being a huge celebration for my fans and anyone who has enjoyed my music over the past five decades.” Whether you’re an avid Ozzy fan or an appreciator of classic rock music, wish one of the most famous rock stars in the world farewell. // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow; livenation.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Nick Di Paolo Live
Sept. 14-15, Times vary
Di Paolo’s career credits include performances on The Tonight Show, Late Night with David Letterman and Conan, and acting roles on Inside Amy Schumer, The Sopranos and Louie; he’s also a two-time Emmy nominee for writing on The Chris Rock Show. His painfully honest humor reminds audiences that it still pays to be a little reckless in the modern world. // Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington; acdh.arlingtondrafthouse.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Chalkfest at Reston Town Center
Sept. 14-15, times vary
Chalk is so much more than an example of childhood nostalgia. Sponsored by Public Art Reston and the Reston Town Center, create chalk masterpieces along Market Street and participate in contests based on skill level. // Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston; restontowncenter.com
ART EXHIBITS
Spring and Love, Loss and Dreams
September 14-15, 8 p.m.
Harking back to his debut in Jacques Brel, Alan Naylor returns to the Cauldron to channel the drama and experience of a poet-lover. Along with Barbara Wilkinson, this performance filled with highs and lows will leave any audience member wanting more. // Creative Cauldron: 410 S. Maple Ave., Suite 116, Falls Church; creativecauldron.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Dulles Day 5K/10K on the Runway
Sept. 15, 7:30 a.m.
There are very few times in life where you can run on an airport runway. Here’s one of those times. As one of the most unique racing experiences in the area, look around the airport grounds, run by planes and feel what it’s like to race along the landing strip at Dulles International Airport. // Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly; potomac.enmotive.com/events/register/2018-dulles-day-5k-10k-on-the-runway
MUSEUM EVENTS
Colonial Market & Fair
Sept. 15-16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Travel back in time to the colonial era and stroll along the grounds at Mount Vernon, visiting colonial artisans that demonstrate and sell their wares. Watch 18th century shows like a fire-eating act and a balloon launch. For chocolate fanatics, experience 18th century chocolate making from an authentic colonial recipe. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; mountvernon.org
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Bluemont Fair
Sept. 15-16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
For almost 50 years, the Bluemont Fair has provided an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Nestled in the heart of Bluemont in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, explore the fairgrounds and find new local, handmade wares. Want a new perspective? Check out the historic slide show and the pre-Civil War country store. // Bluemont Fairgrounds: 33846 Snickersville Turnpike, Bluemont; bluemontfair.org
TOTS
Rainbow Rock
Sept. 15, 10:30 a.m.
Winner of a Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award for their debut album, Meet the Rainbow, Rainbow Rock brings an eclectic mix of songs from different genres that are both catchy and educational. Whether your child wants to jam out in their seat or on stage behind the microphone, Rainbow Rock supports it. // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna; jamminjava.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Heritage Festival
Sept. 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Heritage is different for everyone, and for that reason this festival has something for everyone. Craft at the sawmill, enjoy music under tree canopies, shop for new trinkets at the Eastern National Bookstore or savor food from local food trucks. // Cabin Camp 4: 16675 Pleasant Road, Dumfries; nps.gov
FOOD & DRINK
Virginia Cider Festival
Sept. 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Virginia is known for its hard ciders. Now is your chance to try them all. Featuring over 60 ciders from around the country and within Virginia, hard cider fanatics will be right at home. // Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg; vaciderfest.com
PETS
Canine Cruise
Sept. 15 & 29, 11 a.m.
Considered a barking good time by locals, bring your furry friends on a boat ride around Alexandria’s seaport. Anyone is invited, with or without pets. // Alexandria City Marina: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; potomacriverboatco.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Twilight Polo—Grand Finale
Sept. 15, 5:30 p.m.
Ever since 1993, Twilight Polo has brought the horse community together to celebrate and honor the thrill of polo. Ring in the end of the season with local food and a wine bar. There will be three matches and games to play at halftime. After the matches, the pavilion will open to allow for dancing and continued celebration. // Great Meadow: 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains; greatmeadow.org
MUSIC
Music on Mill Summer Concert: James Drakes and the Chris Taylor Trio
Sept. 15, 6-8 p.m.
Based out of Pittsburgh, James Drakes and the Chris Taylor Trio have opened for some of the best up-and-coming acts coming out of the Steel City. Currently touring around the mid-Atlantic region, don’t miss JDCT3’s blend of catchy lyrics and explosive bass lines as a blended acoustic/indie rock band. // Historic Occoquan: 458 Mill St., Occoquan; occoquanva.gov/summer-concerts
MUSIC
Chemlab with C-Tec and HellBent
Sept. 15, 9 p.m.
For Chemlab, chemistry is a lot more than volatile reactions—it’s about explosive beats, rhythms and electrifying vocals. Joined by C-Tec and HellBent, metal and rock music enthusiasts will be right at home in this unique, one-of-a-kind performance. // The State Theatre: 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church; thestatetheatre.com
PETS
2018 Bichon Bash
Sept. 16, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Who can resist their large, dark eyes and droopy ears? The 2018 Annual Bichon Bash is back again. Support local dog charities all while learning more about this unique breed. Looking to treat your bichon? Personalize a bandana that’s sure to turn heads. // Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville; bichonbash.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
History in Your Hands
Sept. 16, 1-3 p.m.
Those who are blind or have limited vision shouldn’t be restricted to learn. Through a tactile exploration of specifically curated objects and verbal descriptions for objects that can’t be touched, learn more about the history and background of the Marine Corp. // National Museum of the Marine Corps: 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, Triangle; usmcmuseum.com
MUSIC
Van Morrison
Sept. 16, 7 p.m.
Member of The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and six-time Grammy winner, Van Morrison is coming to perform his quintessential blend of jazz and R&B. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his famous Astral Weeks album that originally debuted in 1968, join Morrison as he performs his classics, both new and old. // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow; livenation.com
MUSIC
Coco Montoya
Sept. 16, 8 p.m.
“Montoya’s voice is as expressive as his guitar,” says The Washington Post about this renowned blues singer. Combining beautiful guitar melodies with impressive vocals, Montoya has amassed eight solo albums and has played all over the world. Now, it’s his turn to woo the DMV region. // The State Theatre: 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church;
thestatetheatre.com
MUSIC
Michael Nesmith & The First National Band
Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m.
Most notably known as a member of the Monkees, Michael Nesmith returns to the stage with a reincarnation of The First National Band, the country rock band he formed in the early 1970s. Nesmith’s extensive musical portfolio will bring something for all fans to enjoy. // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; birchmere.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Heisenberg
Sept. 18–Nov. 11
One chance encounter at a London train station will change the lives of two people forever. The Associated Press calls Heisenberg, “quirky, lovely, funny and powerful.” // Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; sigtheatre.org
MUSIC
Andre Rieu and His Johann Strauss Orchestra
Sept. 20, 8 p.m.
Attracting more than 600,000 people to his concerts each year, Rieu has rivaled and even outsold major artists like Rihanna and Bruno Mars. After a remarkable 2017 U.S. tour, Rieu is back to present his special waltzes, folk songs, marches and spirituals. // EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax; eaglebankarena.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Chillin’ on Church
Sept. 21, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Celebrate the town of Vienna with food trucks, local music and family friendly games and activities at this iconic block party. // Freeman Store and Museum: 131 Church St., Vienna;
viennava.gov
PERFORMING ARTS
Third Friday Improv
Sept. 21, 7:30-9 p.m.
The most unique aspect of improv is that no two shows will ever be the same. StageCoach Theatre Company has a reputation for bringing the laughs, so join the StageCoach Bandits as they take audience suggestions to create a performance that you will never forget. // StageCoach Theatre Company: 20937 Ashburn Road, Loudoun; stagecoachtc.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Art Attack Fredericksburg 2018
Sept. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
For any artist, finding inspiration can be difficult. Well, not anymore. Join other local artists in creating art on the sidewalks of downtown Fredericksburg. // Ponshop Studio: 712 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; artattackproject.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Clarendon Day 2018
Sept. 22, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Being one of the most popular street festivals in the Arlington area, this year’s festival is expected to draw over 20,000 people. Experience live music, local food and beverage options and local business exhibits. // Clarendon Station: 3100 Wilson Blvd., Arlington;
clarendon.org/clarendon-day
FOOD & DRINK
Annual Crab Feast 2018
Sept. 22, noon-4 p.m.
Located along the Catoctin Creek, feast on all you can eat crab, corn, sausage and potatoes while enjoying your favorite Creek’s Edge wine. Crab, breathtaking views and great company; what could be better? // Creek’s Edge Winery: 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville; creeksedgewinery.com
FOOD & DRINK
Fairfax County Brewfest 2018
Sept. 22, noon–6 p.m.
Celebrating local drafts and brews, all Fairfax County breweries will be featuring samples of their beers along with the option to tour the Mustang Sally Brewing Company. Want more then beer? Grab some delicious fall food all while listening to live music from local artists. // Mustang Sally Brewing Company: 14140 Parke Long Court, Chantilly; msbrewing.com/ffxbrewfest
FOOD & DRINK
Bourbon & Boxwood
Sept. 22, 7-10 p.m.
Make yourself at home in the gardens of the Mary Washington house as you sample hors d’oeuvres, enjoy an open bar and try a variety of bourbon provided by A. Smith Bowman Distillery. Live music will also be provided courtesy of The Harry Wilson Trio, Ask Fred and The Bruce Middle Trio. // Mary Washington House: 1200 Charles St., Fredericksburg; washingtonheritagemuseums.org
MUSEUM EVENTS
Archeology Workshop: Ceramics at Shuter’s Hill
Sept. 22, 1:30 p.m.
For the normal eye, there’s nothing special about broken pottery. However, for archeologists, broken pottery can tell incredible stories. Examine broken pottery and sift through excavated soil to find out more about the people who lived there in the past and what life was like back then. // Shuter’s Hill Site at the Masonic Memorial: 101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria; apps.alexandriava.gov
PERFORMING ARTS
The Capitol Steps
Sept. 22, 8-10 p.m.
“When it comes to satire, you haven’t seen the real thing until you have been to the Capitol Steps,” says The Washington Post. In this political climate, some laughs can do the body good. Enjoy this distinct brand of political satire just in time for Election Day. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10900 University Blvd., Manassas; hylton.calendar.gmu.edu
MUSIC
The Calidore Quartet
Sept. 23, 4-6 p.m.
Described by The New York Times as having “deep reserves of virtuosity and irrepressible dramatic instinct,” this quartet has won numerous international prizes and has performed in the most prestigious venues in North America, Asia and Europe. Don’t miss the passion that this quartet brings to every performance. // Waterford Old School: 4022 Fairfax St., Waterford; waterfordconcertseries.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Beauty and the Beast
Sept. 26-Nov. 25
See the classic Disney story come to life as it’s adapted to the stage. Relive Belle’s journey to help the Beast become more human as the two fall in love. // Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg; riversidedt.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Temple Hall Fall Festival & Corn Maze
Sept. 28–Nov. 5
Meant to celebrate the harvest season, partake in fall adventures on Temple Hall Farm’s sprawling farmland. Watch pigs race, blast pumpkins and corn out of cannons, explore a 24-acre corn maze and reach new heights on two massive jumping pillows. Start the fall season out the right way. // Temple Hall Farm Regional Park: 15855 Limestone School Road, Leesburg; novaparks.com/events/temple-hall-fall-festival
PERFORMING ARTS
Fortune Feimster Live
Sept. 28-29, Times vary
Named one of the “10 Comics to Watch” by Variety, Fortune Feimster lives up to that title well. She’s a series regular on The Mindy Project, has appeared on a variety of shows from Glee to Two Broke Girls, and she’s performed on Conan and Late Night with Seth Meyers. For anyone looking to see the next era of comedy, Feimster can’t be missed. // Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse: 2903 Colombia Pike, Arlington; acdh.arlingtondrafthouse.com
MUSIC
Leftover Salmon
Sept. 28, 9 p.m.
Much like their namesake, there’s something better about this band the second time around. Constantly evolving and pushing their musicality to new limits, Leftover Salmon combines a variety of genres to create catchy melodies with addicting rhythms. With an already staggering number of fans and several sold-out shows under their belt, they’re ready to bring a new kind of energy to the DMV that you don’t want to miss. // The State Theatre: 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church; thestatetheatre.com
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Lovettsville Oktoberfest
Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
Originally created by a group of German immigrants in 1732, Lovettsville has deep historical ties to German culture. In fact, the town was first known as the “German Settlement.” To celebrate its unique heritage, join in the fun at the town’s annual Oktoberfest, first started in 1994. Enjoy brews in the beer tent and try classic German foods like pretzels and bratwurst. // Town of Lovettsville: 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville; lovettsvilleoktoberfest.com
PERFORMING ARTS
Aga-Boom
Sept. 29, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Heralded as “a hugely entertaining experience … a frenzy of scenes that build toward an unforgettable chaotic finale, the show culminates in sheer glee …” by the Backstage West “Critics Choice,” Aga-Boom’s theatricality combined with Cirque de Solei influences make for an impressive, standout show for all ages. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10900 University Blvd., Manassas; hylton.calendar.gmu.edu
PERFORMING ARTS
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffery Siegel: Bernstein Birthday Bash
Sept. 29, 8 p.m.
Leonard Bernstein was one of the largest influencers in the theater industry. Just in time to celebrate Bernstein’s 100th birthday, Jeffrey Siegel will perform excerpts from West Side Story as well as some pieces that inspired Bernstein’s most famous works. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10900 University Blvd., Manassas; hylton.calendar.gmu.edu