August is here, which means that summer will soon be winding down — but that doesn’t mean the fun is over. Whether you’re looking to rock out at a concert or immerse yourself in an art exhibit at one of DC’s museums, these 15 events will help you make the most of the last weeks of summer.
August 2–September 24
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Glitz and glamour galore are on display at the Kennedy Center’s Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The romantic drama takes on a new theatrical life with electrifying music and choreography that make for a spectacular experience. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $45–$169
August 3
Karen Jonas and Bryan Elijah Smith
Virginia country singer Karen Jonas ventures on tour for her latest album, The Restless, which showcases her signature alt-country style. Jonas, a three-time Washington Area Music Award–winner for Best Country/Americana Artist, is best known for her emotional vocals and story-telling lyrics. Joined by Virginia-based artist Bryan Elijah Smith, Jonas will light up the Jammin Java stage. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $15
August 3
Oak Ridge Boys
Join the Oak Ridge Boys at Capital One Hall for an evening of country tunes. The Country Music Hall of Famers embark on their Front Porch Singin’ Tour to perform their decades-long, award-winning discography. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $45
August 4–6
Middleburg Sidewalk Sale
Journey to this charming, historic town for an afternoon of outdoor shopping. Browse collections of Middleburg shops’ ceramics, clothing, accessories, and home gifts. This is the perfect opportunity to complete your summer shopping and support small Virginia businesses. Town of Middleburg, free
August 8–September 17
The Bridges of Madison County
The captivating romance of The Bridges of Madison County comes alive in this musical adaptation of the bestselling novel. It is a story of love and passion, set to a Tony Award–winning score. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, ticket prices TBD
August 13
The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA
Turn into a dancing queen and enjoy a night of iconic tracks performed by an ABBA tribute group. Sing along to hits like “Mamma Mia” and “Waterloo” as the Filene Center transforms into a 1970s dance floor. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $39
August 13
Bebel Gilberto
American-Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto takes the stage to promote her latest album, João, an ode to her late father, the Grammy Award–winning João Gilberto. Bebel, a four-time Grammy nominee, is known for her bossa nova style, which blends Brazilian rhythms with American jazz influences. With a personal collection of songs, Bebel is sure to bring an evening of memorable music. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $49.50
August 14–19
Ali Wong
Comedian, writer, and actress Ali Wong travels to the Kennedy Center for one week only. Recently named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2023, Wong’s hilarious, deadpan comedy show is intended for mature audiences. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $59
August 15
Crystal Bowersox
Singer-songwriter Crystal Bowersox performs her eclectic discography, drawing influences from folk-pop, classic rock, soul, blues, and country. The American Idol finalist is certain to bring Jammin Java to life with her powerful vocals and style that transcends musical genres. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $22–$25
August 16–20
Arlington County Fair
Come one, come all to the Arlington County Fair. This family-friendly event offers something for everyone, from carnival rides to shopping to live musical performances. Enjoy a delectable selection of carnival fare, including funnel cake, deep-fried Oreos, and caramel apples. Thomas Jefferson Community Center: 301 Second St. S., Arlington, free
August 18
Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire
World-renowned pop artist Lionel Richie heads to Capital One Arena for his Sing a Song All Night Long Tour. You won’t want to miss the chance to watch this five-time Grammy winner take the stage as he teams up with Earth, Wind & Fire for an iconic performance. Capitol One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $29
August 26
Nickelback
Unleash your inner rock star at Nickelback’s Get Rollin’ Tour. The popular band is set to perform classics like “How You Remind Me” and “Far Away,” plus songs from its most recent album, Get Rollin’. Country artists Brantley Gilbert and Josh Ross open for Nickelback. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, starting at $46
August 26
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
Visit Alexandria’s waterfront for an afternoon of global tastes and festivities. One restaurant per country will be represented, and the festival also features international musical and dance performances as well a global fashion show. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, chiceventsdc.com, free
Through August 27
Philip Guston Now
Explore the 50-year career of modern artist Philip Guston at the National Gallery of Art’s Philip Guston Now exhibit. Through more than 150 paintings and drawings, learn about Guston’s various artistic styles, which range from muralism to abstract expressionism to figuration. National Gallery of Art, East Building: Fourth St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
Through January 14, 2024
Many Wests: Artists Shape an American Idea
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. Smithsonian American Art Museum: Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC, free
Feature image courtesy Arlington County Fair
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