Earth Day is April 22, but the fun begins this weekend. Enjoy eco-friendly festivals, celebrate the start of National Park Week, or experience Culpeper’s finest at Culpeperpalooza. Here’s what to expect from April 19–21.
Gold on Ice
April 19, 8 p.m.
The best figure skaters in the world are taking the ice at Leesburg’s Ion International Training Center. The stacked lineup includes Vienna’s own Ilia Malinin and gold medalists Madison Chock and Evan Bates. Ion International Training Center: 19201 Compass Creek Pkwy. SE, Leesburg, $39–$99
The Rakim and DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ravi Coltrane Project
April 19, 8 p.m.
A fusion of rap and jazz awaits as hip-hop icon Rakim, Grammy Award–winner DJ Jazzy Jeff, and saxophone virtuoso Ravi Coltrane join forces to deliver rhythmic beats. Backed by a live band, their performance will keep your head bobbing even after you leave. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $59–$189
Culpeperpalooza
April 19–21
Culpeper’s finest music and food unite in a celebration for the whole family. Craft vendors will be on hand, and there will be lots of kid-focused activities. Plus, adults get to sample wines from area vineyards. Proceeds will bolster Culpeper’s music education programs, ensuring affordable access for the community’s youth. 10753 Mountain Run Lake Rd., Culpeper, $35 for a weekend pass, $20 at the gate, free for children under age 18
National Park Week
April 20
Celebrate the start of National Park Week with waived entrances fees this Saturday. Seize the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park and Great Falls Park. Shenandoah National Park: 3655 U.S. Hwy. 211 E., Luray; Great Falls Park: 9200 Old Dominion Dr., McLean, free
Record Store Day
April 20
Saturday is for buying vinyl and supporting NoVA’s independent record shops. Wake up early and visit one of these shops to find exclusive pressings, classic albums, and great deals. Various record shops throughout NoVA
Earth Day Fairfax
April 20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Experience Earth Day with a mix of hands-on activities and games. Savor craft beers and local cuisine and meet farm animals. Compete in an obstacle course and learn about wildlife through interactive exhibits. 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, free, $10 parking
Sours and Gummies Festival
April 20, 1–6 p.m.
Delight in a tangy tasting event featuring sour beers paired with gummies. Participate in lively games for a chance to win exciting prizes, all while sampling from over 50 local beers and ciders. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., Mclean, free
King of the Wings and King of the Cheesesteaks Victory Party
April 20, 2–5 p.m.
Toast to Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern’s success as winner of Northern Virginia Magazine’s NoVA Wars: Wings Edition and NoVA Wars: Cheesesteak Edition at its victory party. Sample the celebrated buffalo wings for free, enjoy some live music, and dance the night away in your chicken-dancing shoes. 697 Spring St., Herndon, free
Animal Family Day
April 20–21, 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Visit Mount Vernon to see sheep, oxen, and horses up close. Discover the roles these animals played in the 18th century and hear the stories about the enslaved people who cared for them. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $26–$28, $13–$15 for ages 6 to 11, free for children ages 5 and below
Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival
April 20–21, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Downtown Leesburg transforms into a floral paradise for this annual festival. With landscaping displays, live bands, a beer garden, and activities for kids, it’s a must-visit for garden enthusiasts and families alike. Historic Downtown, Leesburg, free
57th Annual Loudoun Hunt Point-To-Point
April 21, 10:30 a.m.
Join the excitement at one of Loudoun County’s oldest steeplechase traditions. This event provides a full day of thrilling races and exceptional entertainment. Morven Park: 17195 Southern Planter Ln., Leesburg, $35 presale, $40 at the gate
Earth Day Festival
April 21, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Join the global movement to protect the planet. This Arlington street fair includes eco-friendly art, music, food, and activities designed to educate and inspire action toward environmental conservation. Lee Heights Shops: 4500 Cherry Hill Rd., Arlington, free
Women’s Market at Caboose Commons
April 21, 3–6 p.m.
Explore quality offerings from over 20 women-led businesses at Caboose Commons. Shop everything from baby products to custom cards and pottery, all while enjoying refreshing beer. 2918 Eskridge Rd., Fairfax, free
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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