Although summer is nearing its end, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the last few weeks of August. With festivals, carnivals, concerts, parties, and more, here are the best weekend events during August 21 to 23 in and around Northern Virginia.
One Loudoun Summer Carnival
August 12–23
Take a spin on the rides, try your luck at carnival games, and go on thrilling rides at the One Loudoun Summer Carnival. Enjoy classic carnival foods including pizza, ice cream, hot dogs, and funnel cake. One Loudoun, Ashburn, $29+
Jon Batiste
August 21, 8 p.m.
Eight-time Grammy Award winner Jon Batiste joins the National Symphony Orchestra at Wolf Trap. Hear renditions of legendary song from genres including jazz, classical, blues, R&B, and more. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $68+
Freedom 250 Grand Prix
August 22–23
IndyCar racing comes to the nation’s capital with the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. The event celebrates America’s 250th anniversary and marks a new race weekend for the series. Washington, DC, free
Top Gun Construction Rodeo
August 22–23, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Watch skilled heavy-equipment operators compete in timed challenges that test their precision, speed, and skill at Great Country Farms. The two-day event will also feature hands-on equipment activities, fundraising opportunities, and an equipment competition final. Great Country Farms, Bluemont, $13+
Northern Virginia Reptile Expo
August 22, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Reptile enthusiasts can get up close and personal with a large selection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds, Fredericksburg, $10
National Book Festival
August 22, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Meet more than 80 authors, storytellers, poets, illustrators, and other literary figures at the 2026 National Book Festival. Guests can attend talks and panel discussions, take part in Q&As, explore book signings, and browse and purchase titles from the official bookseller, Politics and Prose. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington DC, free
Leesburg Festival of Crafts & Kites
August 22, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Colorful kites and handmade creations take to the sky at this Leesburg festival. This event combines artisan vendors with arts and crafts. It’s fun for the whole family. Ida Lee Park, Leesburg, free
ALX South Block Party
August 22, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Spend the afternoon at this neighborhood block party featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, and activities for all ages. The family fun zone includes face painting, a Fairfax County Fire Department Touch-a-Truck event, and kids’ crafts. Attendees can also enter raffles and giveaways, including a chance to win a free iPad. Bryant High School, Alexandria, free
Winchester Greek Festival
August 22, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and August 23, noon to 4 p.m.
Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church is hosting this festival filled with Greek food like gyros and moussaka, plus Greek music and dancing. The event will take place rain or shine. 1700 Amherst St., Winchester, free admission
Josh Groban
August 22, 8 p.m.
Hear Josh Groban’s instantly recognizable baritone when he joins the National Symphony Orchestra at Wolf Trap. The five-time Grammy-nominated artist will perform career-spanning covers and original songs, such as “You Raise Me Up” and “Believe.” Wolf Trap, Vienna, $61+
Gipsy Kings
August 23, 8 p.m.
Feel the rhythm of the music with Gipsy Kings’ signature mix of flamenco, rumba, salsa, and pop at Wolf Trap. The Grammy-nominated ensemble will revisit fan favorites like “Bamboléo” and “Djobi Djoba,” joined by special guest Reyes Heritage. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $55+
Feature image courtesy Leesburg Crafts & Kites Festival
