As summer officially kicks off this weekend with the summer solstice, Northern Virginia is set to host a variety of events that celebrate the longest day of the year alongside Juneteenth activities.
From family-friendly activities at historic sites to lively festivals, there are plenty of options for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season.
One of the highlights is the ‘Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth’ taking place at Mount Vernon from June 19 to 21.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the history of Juneteenth and what emancipation meant during the 18th century in Virginia.
This three-day event features music performances, character reenactments, and specialty tours focused on the lives of enslaved people.
Furthermore, a new exhibit titled ‘Lives Bound Together: Slavery at Mount Vernon’ will be unveiled on June 19, offering deeper insights into the history of slavery at the estate.
Ticket prices are $26 for adults and $15 for children aged 6 to 11, while kids under five can enter for free.
Another event to mark on your calendar is ‘Play All Day VA’ on June 20, celebrating the summer solstice across Virginia.
Counties including Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, and Fairfax are inviting families to participate in a variety of activities filled with good food, art exhibits, and live music.
Registration for these fun-filled events is recommended and admission is free.
If you’re looking to get moving, head over to The Winery at Bull Run on June 20 for an evening of line dancing from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
With no experience necessary, it promises to be a fun night of dance to country, hip-hop, and pop music in the main tasting room.
The event is free and encourages attendees to don their favorite cowboy boots.
For those who enjoy music, the Seán Heely Summer Solstice Concert will take place on June 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Creative Cauldron in Falls Church.
The award-winning Gaelic singer and fiddler will treat guests to a special performance celebrating the solstice, with tickets starting at $30.
On June 21, the Manassas Bee Festival offers a unique way to enjoy the summer with a day full of activities at a historic property near downtown Manassas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This buzzworthy event will feature a costume parade, performances by a bluegrass band, a mead and beer garden highlighting local honey, food trucks, and plenty of farm animals for viewers of all ages to enjoy.
Admission is free, making it an excellent family outing.
Also on June 21, Smithsonian’s Solstice Saturday will provide opportunities for extended exploration of museums at the National Mall throughout the day and night.
Visitors can take part in various activities such as Asia After Dark and Sally’s Night at select museums, and these festivities are also free to attend.
The evening will ramp up with the ‘Damn Right Encore Tour’ featuring renowned blues guitarist Buddy Guy at Wolf Trap.
Starting at 7:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy an electrifying performance with tickets beginning at $51.50.
For a family-oriented option, the Family Fun Entertainment Series will present Groovy Nate on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in Reston.
This high-energy event is designed for children, featuring clowns, magicians, live music, and interactive games that promise an engaging start to the summer.
Also on June 21, the Village at Shirlington will host a Yacht Party from 5 to 7 p.m., inviting attendees to wear their best summer attire for an evening of live music, food specials, and shopping opportunities at local retailers.
This free event is a wonderful way to enjoy the summer atmosphere with friends and family.
Additionally, food enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 33rd Annual Barbecue Battle taking place from June 21 to 22 on Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, DC.
This signature summer event will showcase over 100 food samples, music performances across three stages, and even Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest.
Admission ranges from $20 to $60, offering a tasty weekend outing for attendees.
The Philippine Independence Festival will be hosted on June 21 and 22 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Mosaic District, celebrating Philippine Independence Day with two stages of entertainment, delicious Filipino food, arts and crafts, and karaoke options.
Entry is free for those wanting to embrace the vibrant Filipino culture.
Sports fans can catch the Washington Mystics as they face off against the Dallas Wings on June 22 at 3 p.m. at the CareFirst Arena in Washington, DC.
The Mystics are currently in fourth place in the Eastern Conference and tickets start at $88 for this exciting WNBA match.
Dog owners can also join the fun at Caboose Commons on June 22 from 3 to 7 p.m. for the ‘Dog Days of Summer’ event, which will feature dog treats, mobile grooming services, and local vendors.
This free ‘paw-ty’ is sure to be a hit with pets and their owners.
To cap off the weekend, sports enthusiasts can watch a thrilling soccer matchup on June 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Audi Field.
Red Bull Salzburg from Austria will take on Al Hilal from Saudi Arabia in a game tied to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with tickets starting at $48.90 for spectators looking to witness intense competition.
There are plenty of enticing events happening in Northern Virginia this weekend, making it a prime time to get out and celebrate the start of summer.
Whether attending music concerts, festivals, or engaging with local history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive weekend.
image source from：northernvirginiamag
