August is here! Before you begin your back-to-school plans, enjoy the last few weeks of summer with some weekend fun. With fairs, outdoor markets and sales, concerts, festivals, and more, here are the best ways to keep making the most of your summer this weekend in and around Northern Virginia from July 31 to August 2.
Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair
July 24–August 2
Make your way to Fredericksburg for this long-standing agricultural fair. See livestock shows, life-sized dinosaurs, magic shows, live alligators, and more. Guests can also enjoy live music, food, games, and rides all week long. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds, Fredericksburg, $15 for adults, $10 for ages 60+
Fairfax County Carnival and Fair
July 30–August 2
Bring the entire family for some old-fashioned fun with rides, games, tractor demos, farm animals, and classic fair snacks. Regular and unlimited ride wristbands are available online and day-of. Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, free
A Novel Find Book Sale
July 30, 11 a.m.– 6 p.m.
Book worms can find their next best read at this outdoor pop-up offering used books, vinyl, CDs, and DVDs for $7 or less. The sale is donation based, and all proceeds go towards Turning the Page, in support of local public school student success. Plus, you’ll get discounts at nearby businesses including Bar Chinois, Toastique, and Daydrift Books and Cafe with proof of purchase. National Landing, Arlington, free
Otakon
July 31–August 2
Anime fans, gamers, and pop culture enthusiasts can head to this annual convention dedicated to Asian media, entertainment, and fandom. Attendees can enjoy three days of manga, music, movies, and video games. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC, $45+
Middleburg Summer Sidewalk Sale
July 31– August 2
Find the best bargains, deals, and discounts at Middleburg’s annual outdoor sale. Find clothing, home décor, artwork, and more from local specialty shops, boutiques, and businesses. Multiple area locations, Middleburg, free
Maryland Youth Ballet
July 31– August 2, 10:30 a.m.
The story of a princess, a spindle, and true love comes to life with a performance of Sleeping Beauty. See the young dancers of the Maryland Youth Ballet as they retell this classic fairytale. Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, Vienna, $14
Prince William County Fair
July 31–August 8
This nine-day event has countless family-friendly activities, making it a venue for all occasions. From motorsport races and demolition derbies to petting zoos and live music, there’s something for everybody to enjoy. The fair will also include its annual PWC Fair Pageant. Prince William County Fairground, Manassas, prices vary
Kidz Bop Live
July 31, 7 p.m.
Kidz Bop brings their kid-friendly renditions of today’s popular hits to Wolf Trap as part of their Kidz Bop Live! tour. Kids can sing along to hits like Chappel Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” and tracks by K-Pop Demon Hunters. Wolf Trap, Vienna, $49+
Friendship Firehouse Festival
August 1, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Celebrate Alexandria’s firefighting heritage and public service at this firehouse festival. Visitors can find live music, local vendors, food and drinks, and community exhibits. Kids can explore fire trucks, meet safety officials, partake in fire-hose activities, and get a free Friendship fire hat, while supplies last. S. Alfred St., Alexandria, free
Arlington Midsummer Flea Market
August 1, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Fans of all things vintage won’t want to miss this midsummer flea market filled with antiques, collectables, and retro treasures. Peruse a selection of furniture, clothing, jewelry, household goods, books, toys, and more. Washington-Liberty High School, North Arlington, free
Beats, Bites, and Brews
August 1, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Spend a summer evening in Alexandria with live music, food, and craft beverages. This outdoor event brings together local flavors, artisans, and entertainment. John Carlyle Square Park, Old Town Alexandria, free
Manassas African American Heritage Festival
August 1, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
This annual heritage festival returns with arts and crafts dealers, school exhibits, job expos, car shows, and food vendors. See performances by local step teams, R&B bands, and dance academies to spotlight African American heritage. Metz Middle School, Manassas, free
Chance the Rapper (10 Year Anniversary Tour)
August 1, 8 p.m.
Grammy Award winner Chance the Rapper is making his Wolf Trap debut ahead of the 10-year anniversary of his album Coloring Book. Catch some of his greatest hits live, including “Cocoa Butter Kisses” and “No Problem.” Wolf Trap, Vienna, $69.50+
Peach Fuzztival
August 1–2
Get your fill of all things peaches at Great Country Farms’ peach festival. The event includes activities like a pie-eating contest and water games, as well as food and drinks such as peach slushies and peach ice cream. Although the orchards will be closed for peach picking this year, peaches will be available for purchase at the Farm Market. Great Country Farms, Bluemont, $12–$14 in advance, $16 day-of
Hilary Duff feat. La Roux & Jade LeMac
August 2, 7 p.m.
Actress, singer-songwriter, and author Hilary Duff is taking her Lucky Me tour to Jiffy Lube Live. Hear songs from the Disney Channel star’s suprise album, luck… or something. Artists La Roux and Jade LeMac will open the night. Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, $114+
Lord Huron
August 2, 8 p.m.
American indie rock band Lord Huron is heading to DC for one night only. Known for their folk and surf rock melodies, fans can listen to tunes from their Strange Trails and Vide Noir albums, including their hit “They Night We Met.” The Anthem, Washington, DC, $69.30
Feature image courtesy Prince William County Fair
