Jul 15, 2025

July Joyride: DMV Summer Adventures

Summer is in full swing in the DMV. From mid-July to the last week of the month, the region offers something for everyone: lively festivals, scenic outdoor delights, and relaxing staycation escapes. Whether you’re planning a fun family day, a romantic date, or a friends’ outing, here are some top picks to enjoy the season together!

1. Words Beats & Life’s DMV Made Festival

A vibrant, free celebration of local arts, music, poetry, crafts, and wellness. Hosted on the National Mall, this one-day festival brings together performances, interactive zones, and a festive atmosphere. Perfect for families, couples and friends!

 📅 July 26 • 1–7:30 pm
💵 Free, no tickets needed
🌐 Website: https://www.thecounterbalance.org/dmvmade
📸 IG: @wordsbeatsandlife

2. Romanian Weekend at The Wharf 

Grab your family or make it a date with your special someone and dive into Romanian culture with traditional music, dance, folk crafts, and delicious food at The Wharf. Fun, immersive, and great for all ages!

📅 July 18–20 • Fri–Sun
💵 Free admission
🌐 Website: https://www.romanianfestivaldc.com/
📸 IG: @romania.in.us

3. Anacostia River Explorer Boat Tours 

Enjoy a peaceful evening with family and friends on boat tour up the Anacostia River. Learn about its ecosystem, history, and conservation—perfect for curious minds.

 📅 July 15 • 6–7 pm
💵 Free, but RSVP required
📍 1492 4th St SE, DC
🌐 Website: https://www.anacostiariverkeeper.org/anacostia-river-explorers/
📸 IG: @anacostiariverkeeper

4. Outdoor Shakespeare: The Comedy of Errors 

Experience Shakespeare under the stars at Brookside Gardens. Bring a picnic and enjoy this comedic gem in a beautiful garden setting. Perfect for friends and family or a special date night! 

📅 July 20 • 7–8:45 pm
💵 Free admission
📍 Glenmont, MD
🌐 Website: https://americanshakespearecenter.com/events/the-comedy-of-errors-2025/
📸 IG: @americanshakespearecenter

5. Reston Concerts on the Town

Head to Reston Town Center with your family and friends for free Saturday evening concerts—great music, chill ambiance, and fun for all ages.

 📅 July 5, 12, 19, 26 • 7:30–10 pm
💵 Free
📍 Reston, VA
🌐 Website: https://restontc.org/live-work-enjoy/enjoy/sip-stroll-rules/reston-concerts-on-the-town/ 

6. Friday Night Live! Concert Series 

Kick off the weekend at Herndon Town Green with live music every Friday. Genres rotate weekly—perfect for date nights or a night out.

📅 July 11, 18, 25 • 6–8 pm
💵 Free entry
📍 Herndon, VA
🌐 Website: https://www.fxva.com/event/friday-night-live!-concert-series/35834/
📸 IG: @visitfairfax

7. Lubber Run Summer Concert Series 

Catch live music in a relaxed Arlington park setting. Friday/Saturday evenings at 8 pm and Sunday mornings at 11 am—ideal for both families and couples.

 📅 Through Aug 1 • Fri/Sat 8 pm, Sun 11 am
💵 Free concerts
📍 Arlington, VA
🌐 Website: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Arts/Programs/Lubber-Run
📸 IG: @arl_artscene

8. Children’s Theater‑in‑the‑Woods at Wolf Trap 

Enchanting outdoor performances—from puppetry to dance—perfect for young audiences at Wolf Trap’s scenic forest stage.

 📅 Through Aug 9 • schedule varies
💵 Ticketed (check site)
📍 Vienna, VA
🌐 Website: https://www.wolftrap.org/about/venues/theatre-in-the-woods.aspx
📸 IG: @wolf_trap

9. Great Country Farms: Sunflowers & Peaches 

Escape to Bluemont, VA for a rustic “sunflower season” outing. Pick your own blooms, enjoy fresh peaches, live music, farm games—and take home summer memories.

 📅 July 26–Aug 15 (visit Jul 26–31 window!)
💵 $1/stem; peaches extra
📍 Bluemont, VA
🌐 Website: https://greatcountryfarms.com/pick_your_own_sunflower_festival/
📸 IG: @greatcountryfarms

10. Staycation Getaway: The Wharf Weekend Escape 

Book a hotel at The Wharf for a waterfront retreat: live music, fire pits, paddleboarding, and delicious dining within a short walk. A mini-vacation in the city!

 📅 Any weekend Jul 18–31
💵 Hotel rates vary (~$200‑$400/night)
🌐 Website: https://www.wharfdc.com/
📸 IG: @thewharfdc

Happy July from Jennifer Young Homes

Whether it’s splashing in farm fields, singing under the stars, or escaping to the city’s waterfront, July 14–31 in the DMV is packed with unforgettable moments. From free outdoor concerts and family-friendly theater to cultural festivals and cozy city retreats, there’s something here for everyone. Enjoy the long days, make lasting memories, and here’s to the magic of summer—with you every step of the way!

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