Updated on July 22, 2023 by Julie McCool
2023 July events in Northern Virginia include fun festivals and celebrations with fireworks, parades, music, wine, food, history, and more. Happily, most of our favorite July events are back and in person in 2023. In addition, we've suggested ongoing summer activities where you can create your own ways to celebrate the season in the Washington DC region.
2023 July Events in Northern Virginia
Kick off July 2023 with 4th of July weekend fireworks, parades, and patriotic fun. Then keep summer fun going with July events that feature fantastic local entertainment, wine, food trucks, historic sites, and more. The month ends with the first County Fair of the summer.
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Looking for fun things to do this weekend in Northern VA? Our list of Northern Virginia events includes things to do in Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Alexandria, Arlington, and other area towns. Festivals and events are listed in order of start date, with multi-day events generally listed first.
Summer storms can lead to cancellations. Always check inclement weather policies and updates before heading out.
4th of July Fireworks and Parades, Multiple Dates + Locations
Independence Day fireworks and parades are back in 2023 beginning in late June! Our complete guide to July 4th weekend fireworks in Northern Virginia includes a host of family-friendly events throughout the region. Plan ahead so you don't miss the fun!
Cut Your Own Sunflower Festival, Bluemont, July 1 – 31
One of the most kid-friendly farms in Northern VA, Great Country Farms, is hosting a Cut Your Own Sunflower Festival in 2023. The festival includes u-pick sunflowers and a fun photo contest. Enter your perfect sunflower pics in one of three categories and you may win a stay for up to 6 people at the farm's Blue Door Cottage.
Check out more Great Sunflower Fields in Northern Virginia.
World War II Weekend, Rippon Lodge, July 8 – 9
Learn about the daily life of World War II soldiers from living historians portraying Axis and Allied soldiers. Also learn about Admiral Black, the last owner of Rippon Lodge, a WWII veteran, and survivor of Pearl Harbor. Enjoy historic house tours, crafts, weapon and tactical demonstrations, and more. Free (donations welcome); 11:00 – 4:00 daily.
Alexandria and USA Birthday Celebration, Alexandria, July 8
Celebrate America’s 247th birthday and Alexandria’s 274th in beautiful and historic Alexandria. Enjoy a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra followed by a dazzling fireworks display. Free; 6:00 – 9:45.
2nd Saturday Art Walk, Workhouse Arts, Lorton, July 8
Head to the Workhouse Arts Center for a fun evening featuring art and music. View artists creating art in the studios or exhibiting in 12 campus galleries. Free; 6:00 – 9:00 pm.
Freedom in Nature at the Gardens, Chantilly, July 12 – 16
Explore the new National Botanic Garden in Chantilly VA on a self-guided tour (pack a picnic!). See a unique collection of art, nature, and unique spaces walk including Hobbit Town, the Kyoto Bamboo Garden, and more. Admission is $20/$25 for Early Bird/regular tickets. Noon – 5:00
Fauquier County Fair, Warrenton, July 12 – 15
Join in 4 days of fun at the annual Fauquier County Fair. Enjoy farm animals, arts, crafts, carnival rides, live entertainment, classic fair food, and more. Tickets are $10/$5 for adults/children, seniors, and active military. Follow the link for full schedule.
Summer of Sunflowers, Burnside Farms, July 13 – ?
The biggest u-pick sunflower farm in Northern Virginia opens for another season of awesome photos and flowers. Explore 50 acres of sunflower fields and more than 30 varieties of cutting flowers. In 2023, the farm will have 3 sunflower mazes with at least one in bloom throughout the season. Tickets are $19/$21/$23-$25 for weekday/weekend/early + sunset admission.
Key West Fest, Breaux Vineyards, Hillsboro, July 15
Enjoy a “Vineyard in Paradise” at the 18th Annual Key West Fest at Breaux Vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings, craft vendors, and island-inspired food, plus live music. Reservations required for patio and indoor seating and groups over 10. 11:00 – 6:00.
Chillin on Church, Vienna, July 21
Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer and wine, and a time to chill with friends and neighbors in Vienna. The block party is held on Church Street between Dominion and Mill roads on the third Friday, from June through September. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged, but pets are not. Free admission; 6:30 – 9:30.
Purcellville Wine & Food Festival, Purcellville, July 22
The Annual Wine & Food Festival in Purcellville combines live music from a variety of local musicians, wineries, craft breweries, gourmet foods, and wine-related art and accessories. General admission tickets begin at $5 with more options available. 2:00 – 8:00.
Anniversary of First Manassas, Manassas National Battlefield, July 21
Visit Manassas Battlefield to commemorate the anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas (Bull Run). Rangers and volunteers lead tours of the battlefield and the weekend may include additional performances and activities. You can also take a self-guided hike on the First Manassas Loop Trail.
Ben Lomond Civil War Hospital Weekend, July 22
Learn more about the First Battle of Manassas at Ben Lomond, which operated as a hospital for wounded soldiers. The event includes demonstrations, tours, children's activities, and more. Free (donations welcome); 10:00 – 4:00 daily.
Free Fishing at Lake Fairfax, July 22
Join the park's bilingual staff for a morning of fishing at Lake Fairfax. Poles and other equipment will be provided. The event is free and no registration is required but ages 16 and over need a valid VA fishing license. 8:00 – noon.
Loudoun County Fair, Leesburg, July 25 – 29
Experience a true country fair featuring 4-H animals, crafts, carnival rides, entertainment, food, livestock auctions, professional bull riding, and a mini demolition derby. Take a ride at the carnival, enjoy children’s activities and a pet show, enter the kiss-a-pig contest, and indulge in county fair favorites. Ticket prices and festival hours vary by day; follow the link for all the details.
Ongoing Summer Fun in Northern Virginia
Check out our round-up of outdoor summer activities with links to outdoor movies, hiking trails, free concerts, outdoor dining, and area getaways perfect for a summer escape. Summer is the perfect time to take a Virginia day trip and discover a new NoVA hidden gem.
Celebrate National Ice Cream Month
July is National Ice Cream Month and there are plenty of places to celebrate nearby. We rounded up more than 17 Local Northern Virginia Ice Cream Shops where you can cool off with a tasty treat. We also suggest day trips and getaway destinations where local ice cream is part of the fun.
Enjoy Sunrise and Sunset in Northern VA
Take advantage of long summer days and check out our guide to the Best Places to Watch Sunrise and Sunset in Northern Virginia. Pack a picnic, start with a hike, or just enjoy the peace of colorful summer skies.
Shop at Summer Farmers Markets
Everyone loves a summer picnic and the chance to grill at home. Stock up your kitchen with fresh, delicious produce, meats, and other goodies from local farms. There are markets throughout Northern VA and you’ll find them all in our guide to Northern Virginia Farmer’s Markets.
Waterparks and Pools in Northern VA
Beat the summer heat with our big round-up of waterparks and pools in Northern Virginia. Why not visit them all this year?
Outdoor Performances in Northern Virginia
Check our round-up of Northern Virginia summer concert series for outdoor music throughout the summer. Many concerts begin in June, and most are family-friendly and free to attend. Keep the summer fun going with a flick under the stars at Outdoor Movie Series in Northern VA.
Plan a Summer Getaway in and Near Northern Virginia
Find beautiful and unique places to stay in and near Northern Virginia with our guides:
- 17 Amazing Northern Virginia Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
- 17 Fantastic Northern Virginia Wine Country Vacation Rentals
- 23 Fantastic Weekend Getaways In and Near Northern Virginia
- 22 Fabulous Romantic Getaways from Washington DC
Here are more fun ways to celebrate July in Northern VA:
- Go for a hike on one of the many beautiful Northern Virginia trails.
- Take a scenic drive with fun and interesting stops along the way.
- Tackle a paved or off-road bike trail.
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