Celebrate summer in all of its glory this weekend. Welcome county fair season with Fredericksburg’s Agricultural Fair or opt for an elegant night of art and music with a performance at Wolf Trap. Either way, there are plenty of events happening in Northern Virginia the weekend of July 28 to 30 that will help you make the most of the season.
Colin Quinn: Small Talk
Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29, 8 p.m.
This Saturday Night Live alum is an expert in the art of the one-man show. His “latest attempt at humor” (as he refers to the show) explores the ins and outs of a dreaded social convention: small talk. Or, more specifically, how to avoid it at all costs. 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $39
Giselle
Friday, July 28, at 8:30 p.m.
For an evening of moving elegance, American Ballet Theatre returns to Wolf Trap for a performance at the Filene Center. Its rendition of the romantic tragedy Giselle promises drama conveyed through the beautiful and technically impressive art. 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, $28–$98
Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair
July 28–August 6, times vary
America’s oldest agricultural fair is none other than Fredericksburg’s own. The annual staple features classic fair food and rides, farm animals, and a fun lineup of live music and motor sports. Catch the opening night on Friday for the demolition derby or watch ATV drag races on Sunday. 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $12, $8 for 60 and over, free for 3 and under
Commanders Training Camp Practice
Saturday, July 29, 9 a.m.
The Washington Commanders training camp holds “Back Together Saturday,” a special day for families. It will feature an area for kids, meet and greets, a live DJ, and performances by Command Force and the Marching Band Drumline. Fans will get a Commanders Fan Pack that has sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, a fan, and an autograph book so you can get signatures. Take shuttle buses, starting at 7:30 a.m. from Dulles Town Center. 21100 Dulles Town Cir., free
DC Big Flea
Saturday, July 29, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Sunday, July 30, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Calling all collectors: The Mid-Atlantic’s largest indoor flea market is coming to the Dulles Expo Center this weekend. There will be an extensive variety of merchandise, from vintage clothing to fine antiques, so you’ll be able to hunt for the treasures of your choice. 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $10
Peach Fuzztival
July 29–30, August 5–6, August 12–13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Celebrate everyone’s favorite sweet and juicy summer fruit at Great Country Farms’ Peach Fuzztival. At this fruit-inspired event, you’ll be able to pick your own peaches and take part in competitions like peach pie–eating and peach pit–spitting. The live music lineup and concession stand with hard cider are sure to keep it lively. 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont, $14 for adults, $12 for children, peaches sold separately
Beats, Bites, and Brews
Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Enjoy an upbeat afternoon of outdoor entertainment while roaming Old Town Alexandria at its latest festival. Beats, Bites, and Brews will be providing everything its name suggests, locally sourced. Lost Boy Cider and Woodlawn Press Winery are just two of the drink vendors on the lineup. Tasting tickets can be purchased from vendors on-site. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, free
Barbie Brunch & Shopping Extravaganza
Saturday, July 29, noon–3 p.m.
If you have Kenergy to spare after watching the movie, stop by Haven Arts in Manassas for some Barbie-inspired fun. The event will serve delicious food at the brunch buffet, chic looks at the fashion show, and shopping from small businesses. KayCee Candle Company and Kerbobble Toys are just two of the vendors that will be present. 9108 Church St., Manassas, $25
Loudoun County Fair
Through July 29, 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
The week-long event wraps up this weekend, so don’t miss out on the games, carnival rides, animals, music at more at the Loudoun County Fair. Entertainment for this weekend includes performances by Carolyn Eyerly, Ian Vest, and The Mullins Sisters. 17558 Dry Mill Rd., Leesburg, $15 for adults, $5 for children, tickets for rides and games are extra
Many Wests: Artists Shape an American Idea
Through January 14, 2024
Visit this exhibit at the Smithsonian American Art Museum to learn the many historical narratives that have shaped American culture. Through a variety of mediums, 48 modern and contemporary artists reveal their perspectives of the U.S., including Black, Indigenous, Asian American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ voices that are often underrepresented in American history. Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, free
Feature image of Colin Quinn by Monique Carboni, courtesy The Kennedy Center
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