Music is a magical thing. The harmonic sounds of a melody or the dramatic beat drop of the bass somehow have the power to bring people together no matter your story, background or personal views. This summer, relax and enjoy the music with help from these local festivals coming to the region.
DC Jazz Fest
Through June 16, times vary
If you’re a jazz fan, then you’re in luck. This weekend, there will be musical performances by over 100 artists happening across Washington, DC. From venues on The Wharf to the classic stage of The Anthem, guests can choose their desired atmosphere for grooving out to some of the best soul music around. As this year marks the 15th anniversary of the nonprofit organization’s celebration of all things jazz, the final night of the festival will feature a special evening in the Kennedy Center. The event will honor the great masters of jazz, Quincy Jones, Roy Hargrove, Nancy Wilson and more, through a night of musical performances that are sure to inspire the crowd. // Locations vary, Washington, DC; prices vary
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
June 29, noon-8:30 p.m. & June 30, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Embrace everything music has to offer through the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and this year’s chosen theme, “the social power of music.” While the festival has been a staple in DC since 1967, this year’s festivities will look a little different. Instead of the usual two-week-long celebration of all things art, this summer’s event will span across two days and feature over 12 musical performances, local food trucks, instrument workshops and presentations about the area’s music scene. So this June, head to the Nation’s capital for a weekend of shared understanding, social cohesion and love, due to the simple power of music. // The Smithsonian: 600 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC; free
Washington DC’s Immigrant & Refugee Music Festival
July 6, 4 p.m.-midnight
Honor Independence Day through this unique celebration of music that will feature solely artists of immigrant-descent. This year’s lineup features eight producers, mixers and DJs who have lineages that trace across the world, ranging from West Africa to Greece. Plus, 5% of every purchased ticket will be donated to the International Rescue Committee’s DC office, a group who works with refugees to transform and rebuild their lives. // Echostage: 2135 Queens Chapel Road NE, Washington, DC; $29.99-$69.99
Rockstar Energy Drink DISRUPT Festival
July 9, 1:30 p.m.
For the very first time, Rockstar Energy Drink is hosting its very own music festival that will span across 25 cities in both the United States and Canada, starting at the end of June. While most festivals feature several performances at one time, this event will give the audience the opportunity to engage with one band at a time, via one stage. The inaugural lineup heading to Bristow in July features some of rock’s biggest names, as well as newer artists who are set on making it to the big time. A few artists to note are The Used, Sleeping with Sirens and Trophy Eyes, to name just a few of the total 11 performers who will take the stage throughout the day. // Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Drive, Bristow; $12-$171
Moonrise Festival
Aug. 10 & 11, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Grab your dancing shoes, because the annual Moonrise Festival is back in Baltimore for the sixth time since its inception. With four stages, two fully packed days of music and high-tech equipment, this weekend is sure to be a hit for the thousands of individuals who attend. Guests will have the opportunity to hear from some of the music industry’s best electronic artists, including Tiesto, Alan Walker, Slushii and so much more. // Pimlico Race Course: 5201 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore; $105-$280
Rosslyn Jazz Fest
Saturday, Sept. 7, 1-7 p.m.
For the 29th year in a row, the free Rosslyn Jazz Fest returns. This year’s lineup features a unique blend of sounds, including everything from jazz and blues to funk and soul. Each headliner will bring their own flare to the stage, whether that be through brass instruments or a rare voice that can sing songs in French, Haitian Creole and English. While the timeline has yet to be announced, guests can expect performances by Houston-based band The Suffers, New Orleans brass band Cha Wa, singer and cellist Leyla McCalla and the District’s funky jazz ensemble JoHo Project. // Gateway Park: 1300 Lee Highway, Rosslyn; free
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