Updated on July 25, 2024 by Julie McCool
2024 July events in Northern Virginia include fun festivals and celebrations with fireworks, parades, music, wine, food, history, and more. In addition, we've highlighted summer activities where you can create your own ways to celebrate the season in the Washington DC region.
Kick off July 2024 with 4th of July weekend fireworks, parades, and patriotic fun. Then keep summer fun going with July events that feature fantastic local entertainment, wine, historic sites, and more. Close out the month with the family-friendly Loudoun County Fair.
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2024 July Events in Northern Virginia
Our list of fun things to do this weekend in Northern VA includes 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 in 2024 begin 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!
A Magical Apothecary, Alexandria, July 7
Learn about the botanical science behind Harry Potter and make your own potion on a special tour of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary. The “frozen in time” pharmacy is one of our favorite things to do in Alexandria. 11:00, $15 for non-members 8 and up.
World War II Weekend, Rippon Lodge, July 13 – 14
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 13
Celebrate America’s 248th birthday and Alexandria’s 275th in beautiful and historic Alexandria. Enjoy a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra followed by a dazzling fireworks display. Free; 6:00 – 9:45.
Fauquier County Fair, Warrenton, July 17 – 20
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 19 – Aug 4
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 2024, the farm will have 3 sunflower mazes with at least one in bloom throughout the season. 2023 tickets were $19/$21/$23-$25 for weekday/weekend/early + sunset admission.
Chillin on Church, Vienna, July 19
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.
Cut Your Own Sunflower Festival, Bluemont, July 20 – Aug 11
One of the most kid-friendly farms in Northern VA, Great Country Farms, hosts a Cut Your Own Sunflower Festival. 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 farm pass or a stay at the Brewer's Cottage ar Dirt Farm.
Check out more Great Sunflower Fields in Northern Virginia.
Key West Fest, Breaux Vineyards, Hillsboro, July 20
Enjoy a “Vineyard in Paradise” at the 19th 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.
Anniversary of First Manassas, Manassas National Battlefield, July 20
Visit Manassas Battlefield to commemorate the 163rd 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 Hospital Lantern Tour, July 20
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. $10; 8:00 – 9:30 pm.
Purcellville Wine & Food Festival, Purcellville, July 20
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.
Loudoun County Fair, Leesburg, July 23 – 27
Experience a true country fair featuring 4-H animals, crafts, carnival rides, entertainment, food, livestock auctions, professional bull riding, and a mini demolition derby. Enjoy a carnival, children’s activities, and shows, contests, and county fair favorites. Ticket prices and festival hours vary by day.
Coming in August
Celebrate August at fairs, festivals, carnivals, and more. Plan ahead with our big guide to August Events in Northern Virginia.
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.
Plan a Perfect Picnic
Speaking of picnics, summer is a great time to pick up some takeout or prep your own meal and head to these beautiful and fun picnic spots in Northern VA. Local green spaces and urban plazas offer extra amenities and activities on the side.
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, pools, and splash pads 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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