16 Must-See August Events Around Northern Virginia and Washington, DC
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August is bringing plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy the final stretch of summer. From live concerts and cultural celebrations to family-friendly festivals and unique community events, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, have something happening almost every weekend.
Whether you’re looking for music, food, entertainment, shopping, or activities for the whole family, these August events are worth adding to your calendar.
EleFest
August 7–9 | Smithsonian National Zoo, Washington, DC | Prices vary
Celebrate elephants, culture, and conservation at EleFest. Visitors can see the newest elephant calf, Linh Mai, while enjoying activities such as happy hour and yoga with the elephants, traditional dances, story times, and more.
2026 Cardboard Boat Regatta
August 8 | Reston Museum, Reston | Free
Head to Lake Anne for this creative annual tradition where teams compete with homemade cardboard boats. Watch decorated vessels take on the challenge and see which creations can successfully stay afloat.
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
August 14 | Wolf Trap, Vienna | $57+
Experience Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony performed by The National Symphony Orchestra and The Washington Chorus at Wolf Trap. The program includes the rarely performed “Elegiac Song” and concludes with the famous “Ode to Joy.”
Alexandria Sidewalk Sale
August 14–16 | Old Town Alexandria | Free
Old Town Alexandria’s boutiques and shops bring their offerings outdoors for this seasonal shopping event. Visitors can explore the district while browsing special deals and discounts throughout the weekend.
Foo Fighters and Queens of the Stone Age
August 17 | Nationals Park, Washington, DC | $125+
Rock music takes over Nationals Park as the Foo Fighters headline a concert featuring special guests Queens of the Stone Age. Led by NoVA native Dave Grohl, the band brings a major summer performance to the capital region.
Diana Ross
August 19 | Wolf Trap, Vienna | $65+
Legendary performer Diana Ross comes to Wolf Trap for an evening celebrating her iconic music career. Fans can enjoy some of her well-known hits, including “I’m Coming Out,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.”
Leesburg Festival of Kites & Crafts
August 22 | Ida Lee Park, Leesburg | Free
Families can enjoy a colorful day at the Leesburg Festival of Kites & Crafts. The event combines flying kites, handmade creations, artisan vendors, and arts and crafts activities for visitors of all ages.
Freedom250 Grand Prix
August 22–23 | Washington, DC | Free
The nation’s capital welcomes the Freedom250 Grand Prix, featuring IndyCar racing in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The event introduces a new race weekend for the series.
Gregory Alan Isakov
August 26 | Wolf Trap, Vienna | $61+
Singer-songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov joins the National Symphony Orchestra for a special performance at Wolf Trap. His folk-inspired sound blends with orchestral arrangements for a memorable late-summer concert experience.
PlayPalooza
August 29 | Springfield Plaza, Springfield | Free
Families can enjoy a day full of games, activities, and entertainment at PlayPalooza. The event features bounce houses, obstacle courses, foam parties, a Truck Touch Zone, and meet-and-greets with popular kids’ characters.
Around the World Cultural Food Festival
August 29 | Oronoco Bay Park, Alexandria | Free
Take a trip around the world through food and culture at this waterfront celebration. Guests can enjoy international cuisine, cultural performances, and family-friendly entertainment along the Alexandria waterfront.
James Taylor
August 30; September 1–2 | Wolf Trap, Vienna | $71+
James Taylor returns to Wolf Trap for three performances with his All-Star Band. Fans can enjoy classic songs from his career, including “Fire and Rain,” “How Sweet It Is,” and “Carolina in My Mind.”m
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