2016 Summer Festival Guide

ARTS, CULTURE & FUN

SUNDAY, MAY 1
Fiesta Asia Silver Spring
DOWNTOWN SILVER SPRING, MD. Fiesta Asia Silver Spring is branded as our kickoff event for May. Happenings include live performances, open market exhibitors, interactive displays, AsiaMoves dance lessons and many more. Join us on the first day of May, and get a taste of Fiesta Asia. Our Maryland fair will enchant and entertain you all day long! 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.fiestaasia.org

FRIDAY, MAY 6 – FRIDAY, AUGUST 12
Farragut Fridays
GOLDEN TRIANGLE, DC. Farragut Fridays are a full day of getting outside in the Golden Triangle.  Starting at 9 a.m. drop in for an outdoor “office” that includes free Wi-Fi, tables and chairs and games to get your creative juices flowing. At noon the picnic in the park begins. Grab a bite to eat, play lawn games (corn hole, foosball and table tennis) play with puppies and listen to live music. Then, head back after work for the Golden Cinema movie series.  Pre-show fun starts at 7:30 p.m., movies are at dusk from May 20 to July 22. This year’s movie theme is “Hail to the Chief” and features Mr. Smith goes to Washington, the Manchurian Candidate, Dave and more. The day is free. Get the complete schedule at www.goldentriangledc.com.  

SATURDAY, MAY 7 – SUNDAY, JUNE 5
Virginia Renaissance Faire
SPOTSYLVANIA, VA. The Virginia Renaissance Faire opens for its 15th year on Saturday, May 7 for five weekends of historical fun and merriment. Set on the grounds of Lake Anna Winery, the Faire is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is $10 and free for children five and under. The Faire features live music and shows and over 70 merchants with food, crafts, games, clothing and art. A blacksmith offers custom work and demonstrations. Plus, don’t miss the Tavern with live entertainment or the wine tasting and sales kiosk with local Lake Anna Winery wines. www.varf.org

SATURDAY, MAY 14 – SUNDAY, MAY 15
Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
BETHESDA, MD. Live rock, jazz and reggae music! Walk through the festival and enjoy looking at unique jewelry, clothing and furniture that’ll be on display. Then stop by the restaurants to enjoy pizza, sandwiches and ice cream. Free. www.bethesda.org  

SATURDAY, MAY 21 – SUNDAY, MAY 22
Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival
RESTON TOWN CENTER, VA. Join us in celebrating the 25 ^th Annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival. Since 1991, the nonprofit Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) has produced the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, rated one of the best outdoor art festivals in the country. The festival is free and open to the public, although $5 donations per adult in support of GRACE are encouraged and appreciated. Festival attendees will enjoy viewing inspiring and innovative art in a wide variety of media and styles; interacting directly with artists from around the country; and exploring their own creativity in the Family Art Park, featuring free face painting and balloon animals. The festival will also include the performing arts, with innovative dance performances sponsored by the Reston Community Center and other musical entertainment presented throughout the weekend. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday. www.restonarts.org/fineartsfestival2016

SUNDAY, MAY 22
Fiesta Asia Street Fair
NW, DC. The 11th annual National Asian Heritage Festival’s signature event, the Fiesta Asia Street Fair, features more than 1,000 performers on five stages representing more than 20 cultures for nine consecutive hours. Live performances by musicians, vocalists, dancer, martial artists; Pan-Asian cuisine; a shopping bazaar; kid-friendly interactive activities; talent competition, cultural parade, Bollywood street dancing, exhibits of traditional and contemporary Asian crafts and beer from around Asia. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.  www.fiestaasia.org  

FRIDAY, JUNE 10 – SUNDAY, JUNE 12
Celebrate Fairfax!
FAIRFAX, VA. This festival features concerts on nine different stages, with performances by Plain White T’s, the B-52s and Living Colour. There’s also a petting zoo, carnival rides and plenty of great food. Each night of the festival ends with a fireworks show. Fairfax Government Center. $10-$15. www.celebratefairfax.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 12
Capital Pride Festival
NW, DC. Drag performances, beer gardens and headliners Meghan Trainor and Charlie Puth at DC’s largest annual one-day event! Celebrate the LGBT communities of DC with your favorite cocktails, beers and wines. Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets NW, DC. Free. www.capitalpride.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29 – MONDAY, JULY 4
THURSDAY, JULY 7 – SUNDAY, JULY 10
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
NATIONAL MALL, DC. The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held outdoors on the National Mall in Washington, Dc during the last week of June and first week of July. This year, the festival will take place between Fourth and Seventh streets, north of the National Air and Space Museum, from June 29 to July 4 and July 7 to 10. The festival is free of charge. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special events taking place most evenings beginning at 6:30 p.m. www.festival.si.edu

THURSDAY, JULY 7 – SUNDAY, JULY 31
Capital Fringe Festival
VARIOUS LOCATIONS, DC. Unique poetry, puppetry and wild dance performances! With countless performing groups, there’s bound to be something for everybody including risk-taking art and non-traditional acts. www.capfringe.org

FRIDAY, JULY 15 – SUNDAY, JULY 17
Artscape
BALTIMORE, MD. Fashion designers, outdoor sculpture and art cars! America’s largest free arts festival will also feature the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and other incredible live music. Free. www.artscape.org

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 – MONDAY, AUGUST 22
Comcast Outdoor Film Festival
ROCKVILLE, MD. It’s for charity! Free outdoor movies on the largest screens in the country! Experience the old-school feel of a drive-in theater while helping to raise funds for a great cause. Free. MCPS Board of Education parking lot.www.filmfestnih.org  

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 – SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
Virginia Scottish Games
THE PLAINS, VA. You can wear a kilt! One of the few places outside the Commonwealth where you can experience authentic Scottish culture and traditions, including spectacular highland dancers, bagpipes, adorable Scottish dogs, cool British cars and sheep herding. $20 – $30. Great Meadow – The Plains, VA. www.vascottishgames.org  

CONCERT SERIES

WEDNESDAYS
Rockin’ the Block Concert Series
June 1 to August 31
CAPITOL RIVERFRONT, DC. Canal Park presents a new take on the front porch concert. Concerts take place at the Canal Park middle block stage Wednesdays of each summer month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will feature great bands, food and beverages from neighborhood restaurants, games and more. Find more details atwww.captiolriverfront.org.  

THURSDAYS
Bethesda Summer Concert Series
May 5 to July 28
BETHESDA, MD. Bask in the sweet melodies and the summer air as you catch the music in Veterans Park. Featuring local favorites Cathy Ponton King, Chugalug, Blue Sky 5 and more.  6 p.m.-8 p.m. Free. www.bethesda.org

Rock the Row at Pentagon Row
July 14 to August 25
ARLINGTON, VA. Hot bands and cold beer return to Pentagon Row for the annual Rock the Row series.  Each week a different band takes the stage and a different craft brewery is featured in the VIP lounge.  Bands include Kristin and the Noise, Gonzo’s Nose, The Rockets and White Ford Bronco.  The VIP lounge will host Virginia craft brewers Devils Backbone, South Street, Mad Fox and others, plus a rotating restaurant partner.  Admission to the concerts is free, admission to the VIP lounge is $10 and all proceeds are donated to SCAN – Stop Child Abuse Now of Northern Virginia. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Go to www.pentagonrow.com for lineup, and purchase lounge tickets in advance at www.tickets.ontaponline.com.

FRIDAYS
Herndon Friday Night Live!
May 6 to August 26
HERNDON, VA. It’s the 22 ^nd year of hooking folks up with cold beer, hot tunes and fantastic food! Featuring party favorites Go Go Gadget, Burnt Sienna, The Reflex and more, Herndon rocks you through the summer with the best local and regional talent from the East Coast. No concert on June 3, but be sure to check out Herndon Festival instead. Free. www.herndonrocks.com  

Rockville Town Square Friday Night Live
May 6 to September 30
ROCKVILLE, MD. Live music lights up the Rockville Town Square when local favorites like Lloyd Dobler Effect, Junkyard Saints, Billy Coulter Band and more take to the Dawson’s Market Stage. Plus, enjoy food and drinks from guest restaurants American Tap Room, Mellow Mushroom, Bar Louie and others. 6:30-9 p.m. Free.www.rockvilletownsquare.com

Budweiser Music Series at Nats Park
May 13 to September 30
NATIONALS PARK, DC. Every Friday home game, the best place to pre-game is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark.  Enjoy cold Bud and Bud Light and hot tunes from the city’s best cover bands.  White Ford Bronco, Party Like Its, Jeff from Accounting and Dr. FU. Enter to win tickets and check out the lineup atwww.ontaponline.com/baseball.

Friday Night Concert Series in Yards Park
May 27 to September 2
CAPITOL RIVERFRONT, DC. The summer comes alive at Yards Park on Friday nights. Blankets are spread, picnics unpacked and the crowd settles in for a great night of live music on the waterfront. Each season’s lineup brings a diverse mix of music ranging from classic Motown (Jimi Smooth) to roots Americana (19th Street Band.) The concerts are free and run from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. Music is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. but arrive early to get a good spot, the shows are popular. New this year, the stage will be on the Great Lawn portion of the park, and outside alcohol is no longer allowed. Fear not, a beer and wine bar is located onsite. For information on the shows, visit www.capitolriverfront.org.

Rock The Block #TGIFairfax
May 27 to October 28
FAIRFAX, VA. Rock the Block at Old Town Square in Fairfax is back this summer.  Each fourth Friday of the month from June through October, walk, run, ride your bike or drive because you don’t want to miss out on Stereo A, The Reagan Years, Rockets, Hackens Boys and more. Food is available for sale. Bring chairs and or blankets to sit on and kids wear swim suits and bring towels for our new spray pad! No pets allowed except service animals. 6:30-9:30 p.m. www.fairfaxva.gov/RockTheBlock

Park Potomac Concert Series
June 3rd to July 15
POTOMAC, MD. Welcome to the inaugural Park Potomac Concert Series. Don’t miss great live music and a craft beer garden each week.  Bands include Darcy Dawn, 19th Street Band, Lloyd Dobler Effect, Practically Einstein, Sly 45, 7 Deadlines and Justin Trawick. Participating breweries include Olivers, Flying Dog, Heavy Seas, Du Claw, 7 Locks, Milkhouse and Jailbreak.  All proceeds from the beer garden go to the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. Concert is free, beer garden admission is $10.  For more information and to purchase tasting tickets in advance, go towww.parkpotomacmusic.com.

Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series
June 17 to September 18
ARLINGTON, VA. Featuring a diverse lineup melding internationally renowned musicians and regional favorites, Nigerian Afro-Pop pioneer Orlando Julius, regional roots rocker Mary Ann Redmond; Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre, and the Congolese fusion band Mbongwana Star are among those featured in the 2016 Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series. Saturday and Sunday concerts are at 8 p.m., Sundays at 6 p.m. Free. www.arlingtonarts.org

Rio Center Concerts
May 6 to September 24
GAITHERSBURG, MD. Every Friday and Saturday night the party is lakeside at the Rio Center. Just outside Union Jack’s enjoy live music from Route 66, Diamond Alley, Mason Dixon, Four Star Combo and more. Free. 6-9 p.m. Get the complete lineup atwww.riowashingtonian.com.

SATURDAYS
Adams Morgan Summer Concert Series
May 7 to June 25
NW, DC. Live concerts featuring the best local musical talent! Check out the mixture of musical styles including Brazilian jazz, bluegrass, swing, country and rock ‘n roll in an intimate outdoor setting. Corner of 18th St. and Columbia Rd in the BB&T Bank Plaza Free. Find more information on Facebook!

Downtown Silver Spring Concerts
May 14 to September 24
SILVER SPRING, MD. The Fountain Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring rocks on Saturday nights.  Enjoy free concerts featuring acts like Jeremy Little, Stone Age Rhapsody, Loose Ends, Bliss and Friends, Distant Thunder and more. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free.www.downtownsilverspring.com  

Tarara Winery Summer Concert Series
June 4 to September 24
LEESBURG, VA. Dance under the stars with good food and wine, and great friends at this summer-long series of musical soirées including Bruce in the USA and Kanye Twitty. $16. www.tarara.com

FOOD & DRINK 

SATURDAY, MAY 7
The Bloody Mary Festival
SW, DC. Enjoy the craftiest and most delicious Bloody Marys from the 14th Street corridor to Georgetown at Blind Whino. You won’t find any plain tomato juice or horseradish concoctions at this event. Enjoy three hours of the DC area’s most creative and innovative Bloody Marys, created by the finest restaurants and bars in the area. Includes Bloody Marys, bagel bar, cheese tables, tastes of local artisanal food and drinks, music and more. Participating bars include Hank’s Oyster Bar, Bar Pilar, Range, The Heights, Buffalo & Bergen, Barrel, Due South and Old Engine 12 Firehouse Restaurant. 1-4 p.m. $60-$90. www.thebloodymaryfest.com

Of Ale and History Beer Fest
MIDDLETOWN, VA. This is the longest running beer festival in Virginia, celebrating its 21st year. There will be more than 70 beers available for tasting including European imports, American craft brews, hard ciders and specialty beers. There will also be live music all day. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $20 advanced tasting tickets are on sale atwww.bellegrove.org. Admission includes a commemorative tasting glass, eight beer tastings, access to all vendors, performances and tours of Belle Grove’s 1797 Manor House. At the gate, tasting tickets will be $25. Designated drivers or guests under-21 may purchase admission tickets for $10 and it includes two non-alcoholic beverages.www.bellegrove.org/calendar/beer_festival

VinoFest: Third Annual Wine & Music Festival
SE, DC. Calling all wine lovers! On May 7, savor wines from more than 20 unique local and global vineyards, craft beers and specialty cocktails while enjoying live music by Jon Batiste & Stay Human, The Original Wailers and more at Yards Park. VinoFest, the premier wine and music festival, is the ideal spring day, featuring a curated selection of DC’s best bites from Buredo to Milk Bar. VIP and general admission tickets are on sale now at www.vinofest.com. 3-10 p.m.  

FRIDAY, MAY 13 – SUNDAY, MAY 15
Mount Vernon Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
MOUNT VERNON, VA. You might see George Washington? Ok, so you meet him in costume! Celebrate the history of wine in Virginia with exclusive evening tours of the Mansion and cellar, and live jazz overlooking the Potomac River. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. $36-40. $1,100-$1,200 VIP tables and bottle service.www.mountvernon.org

SATURDAY, MAY 14
DC HOPFEST
NE, DC. Hellbender Brewing Company presents the only DC beer festival by and for local brewers. Seventeen local breweries will pour over 20 local craft beers to raise funds for the DC Brewers Guild. Guests will be treated to a complimentary tasting glass, unlimited pours and award-winning fare from Arepa Zone’s food truck. $53.74. 1-4 p.m. Go to www.eventbrite.com/e/dc-hopfest-2016-tickets-24820976208 for details about participating breweries.

Mad Fox’s Spring Bock Festival
FALLS CHURCH, VA. Kick off the beer festival season with us outdoors in the market square! Sample a wide variety of award-winning Spring Bock and other seasonal beers from our brewery and others around region. Enjoy live music and great food as you sip and celebrate spring! Noon to 7 p.m. As always admission is free, and we will feature activities for kids. Get your tickets in advance and don’t wait in line when you arrive! www.madfoxbrewing.com

Maryland Craft Beer Festival
FREDERICK, MD. Celebrate your favorite Maryland breweries at the Maryland Craft Beer Festival! Over 30 brewing companies will present 175+ unique, finely crafted ales and lagers. This festival features live music, exhibitors and a variety of food offerings prepared to partner perfectly with these craft beers. At Carroll Creek Linear Park. Noon to 5 p.m. www.mdcraftbeerfestival.com

SUNDAY, MAY 15
Taste of Arlington
ARLINGTON, VA. The 29th annual Taste of Arlington transforms Wilson Boulevard and neighboring streets into a family-friendly street festival with dining, music and entertainment for all ages. This annual festival features the cuisine of more than 50 Arlington restaurants, two concert stages, an expanded Beer and Wine Garden with Deschutes Brewery’s Street Pub, a 5K race benefiting Girls on the Run, a BarkPark and a KidZone. Noon to 6 p.m. Tickets are now on sale and you can buy discounted tickets on the BallstonConnect Mobile app. www.tasteofarlington.com  

Taste The World in Fenton Village
SILVER SPRING, MD. The 6th Annual Taste the World in Fenton Village is the DC area’s largest restaurant crawl featuring over 30 different restaurants representing food from around the world. Free, attendees come explore the eclectic neighborhood of Silver Spring while purchasing tastes at restaurants for $2-$5. Passports are picked up at any of the three entry points, and are awarded a stamp with a taste at any participating restaurant. Three stamps earn the attendee an entry into the raffle for prizes announced at the end of the day. 1-5 p.m. www.tastetheworld.fentonvillage.org

SATURDAY, MAY 21  
Tour de Fat
SE, DC. Tour de Fat is New Belgium Brewing’s traveling celebration of all things bicycle, honoring mankind’s greatest invention. Born in Colorado to increase awareness and participation in cycling as a sustainable form of transportation, Tour de Fat has grown into a national rite of passage for cycling advocates and bon vivants alike. The day-long event is free, yet all donations and proceeds from beer and merchandise sales go to DC area non-profits. Everyone 21 and older can sample new and classic favorites from New Belgium, including the brewery’s flagship brew, Fat Tire, New Belgium’s latest year-round offering, Citradelic Tangerine IPA, and selections from the acclaimed Lips of Faith series. At Yards Park. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.bit.ly/NBBDC  

Park Potomac Festival
POTOMAC, MD. Come enjoy free fun for the whole family!! Live music from Lovely Rita.  Bring the kids for the petting zoo, face painting and balloon twisting. Beer Garden featuring 7 different local craft breweries and wine. Local breweries include: Flying Dog, Du Claw, Heavy Seas, Jailbreak, 7 Locks, Milkhouse, Olivers. Participating Food trucks include: Peruvian Brothers, Carmen’s Italian Ice, Stella’s Popcorn, Mesob on Wheels, Captain Cookie, Java Crusier, featuring the Big Cheese. Sample food from Founding Farmers, Zoe’s Kitchen, Sugo and Elevation Burger. For more info go towww.parkpotomac.com. All proceeds from the beer garden go to the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. www.parkpotomac.com.  

Virginia Wine & Craft Festival
FRONT ROYAL, VA. Grab a drink and hit the caves! Relax and enjoy shopping for handmade crafts, live music, games and lots of wine from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free entry; $25-$30 wine tasting. www.wineandcraftfestival.com

SATURDAY, MAY 21 – SUNDAY, MAY 22
Wine in the Woods
COLUMBIA, MD. To learn! Sharpen your palate by attending wine education seminars, while enjoying exceptional food and works offered by invited chefs, artists and craft artisans. Symphony Woods Park. $20-$40. www.wineinthewoods.com

SATURDAY, MAY 28 – SUNDAY, MAY 29
Caribbean Wine Festival
MT. AIRY, MD. Island life without the trip! Open your palate to different wines with your souvenir wine glass or take a guided winery tour. Linganore Wine Cellars. $22.50-$30. www.linganore-wine.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 4 – SUNDAY, JUNE 5  
Great Grapes! Wine, Arts & Food Festival
COCKEYSVILLE, MD. Great Grapes! has grown to be Baltimore’s premier casual Maryland wine festival with hundreds of wines available for tasting at Oregon Ridge Park. Hundreds of thousands of guests have enjoyed the Festival as an escape from the urban jungle. Noon to 6 p.m. www.uncorkthefun.com

Vintage Virginia
CENTREVILLE, VA. Since 1982, Vintage Virginia has offered an opportunity to taste from nearly half of Virginia’s homegrown wineries, from the oldest and the largest to the smallest boutiques and exciting new players, at Bull Run Special Event Complex. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.vintagevirginia.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 11
Americana Beer Fest
LEESBURG, VA. Good beer. Great cause. Enjoy an ideal summer day celebrating craft beer and music at Americana Beer Fest, the newest craft beer and arts festival taking place at the scenic Morven Park in Leesburg, Va. Support our veterans while sampling more than 180 styles of craft beer from 60+ local, regional and national breweries. Enjoy live music from Trampled by Turtles, Wild Child, Possessed by Paul James, and Roosterfoot. The festival will also include a food truck rally, an artisan market, life-sized lawn games, as well as a series of culinary and beer-centric panels, demos and workshops, making Americana Beer Fest the ultimate day for the ultimate beer lover. VIP and general admission tickets are on sale now at www.americanabeerfest.org. 2-7 p.m.

Breaux Vineyards Cajun Festival
PURCELLVILLE, VA. Taste Louisiana fare without traveling the distance! Delicious Cajun food with enjoyable wine-a-ritas and rockin’ live music is featured at this annual celebration of our Cajun heritage. $12-$20. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.breauxvineyards.com 

Brew & Bourbon Classic
BALTIMORE, MD. The Brew and Bourbon Classic is a fun-filled afternoon of beer tasting, bourbon sipping and, of course, pulse-pounding Thoroughbred racing at Pimlico Race Course. Over 60 different beers and bourbons will be poured as the races unfold. Great food and music will round out the day. 1-6 p.m.www.brewandbourbonclassic.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 17 – SATURDAY, JUNE 18
Taste of Reston
RESTON, VA. Taste of Reston, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, is the largest outdoor food festival in the area and was voted “Northern Virginia’s Best Food Festival” in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 by Virginia Living magazine. Join us this June at the Reston Town Center for two days of restaurants and community vendors, live entertainment on three stages, the Family Fun Zone and our Wine ‘n’ Dine area. Friday from 3-11 p.m. and Saturday noon-11 p.m. www.restontaste.com

Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ
NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. Unlimited beer and bourbon tastings and the new shrine of swine! Admission buys you a souvenir glass so you can enjoy an all-you-care-to-taste sampling of the 60 beers and 40 bourbons on tap. There is BBQ galore as this festival contains some of the best vendors onsite. The amazing BBQ selection includes pulled pork from whole hogs, ribs, brisket, chicken sausages and more. You can also enjoy seminars in the tasting theater, special hot sauces, cool exhibits and a cigar tent for all guests. There’s also live rock and blues music all day and great bluegrass on the Main Stage. Come and see what the excitement is all about! $35-$90 for general admission; $29 for designated drivers. If you can’t make the festival, don’t worry! The fun comes to Leesburg on Saturday, September 17. www.beerandbourbon.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 – SUNDAY, JUNE 19  
Northern Virginia Summer BrewFest
CENTREVILLE, VA. The 9th annual Northern Virginia BrewFest, presented by Mad Fox Brewing Company, returns to the Special Events Center at Bull Run Regional Park. The two-day event will feature seasonal beers, meads and ciders from more than 45 regional breweries, educational programs, live music, corn hole, and more. Noon to 7 p.m. General admission and VIP tickets are available online at www.novabrewfest.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25
Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival
BALTIMORE, MD. This is the 3 ^rd annual Maryland tradition! The festival is an all-you-can-taste extravaganza complete with over 30,000 crabs, lots of beer, arts and crafts, live music, family fun and so much more! Find out what over 22,000 people have come to enjoy. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Rash Field. www.mdcrabfest.com

Red, White & Brew Festival
SE, DC. Raise a toast to the red, white and brew at this annual all-you-care-to-taste beer and wine event. 1-9 p.m. For tickets and more information, visitwww.drinkthedistrict.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25 – SUNDAY, JUNE 26
24^th Annual Giant National Capital BBQ Battle
NW, DC. Kick off summer at America’s BBQ Party, the 24th Annual Giant Barbecue Battle. Pennsylvania Avenue will be smokin’ with rock, reggae, jazz and blues from 30 bands on three stages. Enjoy free BBQ and grilled food samples in the Taste of Giant sampling pavilion while witnessing America’s best eaters onstage at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog-Eating Contest. Other activities include free wine samples at Barefoot Beach, the military chef cook-off, celebrity chefs, lots of interactive exhibits and America’s national BBQ championship contest. The battle has received numerous awards like “One of America’s most prestigious and entertaining BBQ competitions” by USA Today. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pennsylvania Avenue between 9th and 14th Streets.www.bbqdc.com

FRIDAY, JULY 15 – SATURDAY, JULY 16
2016 Capital Ale House National Beer Expo
RICHMOND, VA. The 3rd annual Capital Ale House National Beer Expo is a national destination craft beer and food experience featuring premium craft beer from Virginia and around the U.S. and highlighting Richmond, Virginia’s (RVA) culinary excellence. Please join us from July 15-16 in RVA for 15+ amazing craft beer and food events. Noon – 10 p.m. Tickets and more information at www.nationalbeerexpo.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20
Kegs and Corks Festival
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD. Head to the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds for a beer and wine festival with great music, good food and fun, plus unlimited samples of craft beers and Maryland wines. Noon to 6 p.m. www.kegsandcorksfest.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
Arts & Ales: Downtown Hyattsville Arts Festival
HYATTSVILLE, MD. Check out 100+ exhibiting artists, Maryland breweries, food trucks and vendors, and live entertainment at Arts & Ales. Noon to 6 p.m.www.hyattsvillearts.com

MOVIE NIGHTS

MONDAYS
Crystal Screen
August 15 to September 26
CRYSTAL CITY, VA. This year’s Crystal Screen is devoted solely to Star Wars, with plans to show episodes one through seven of the epic series. Plaza at 1850 S. Bell St. Free.www.crystalcity.org  

TUESDAYS
Adams Morgan Movie Nights
May 17 to June 14
NW, DC. Adams Morgan Movie Nights showcase a broad range of films from classics to award-winning contemporary and animated features. This year’s lineup includes Inside Out, Rebel Without a Cause and Pretty in Pink. The series is held at one of the best outdoor movie watching venues in the city – the plush new soccer field at Marie Reed School in Adams Morgan, where terraced seating is built into the hillside overlooking the screen. Best of all: the movie nights are free! 8-10:30 p.m.www.facebook.com/adamsmorganmovienights

WEDNESDAYS
NoMa Summer Screen
June 1 to August 17
NW, DC. Enjoy a picnic and a flick under the stars, just blocks from the NoMa Metro station. Princess Bride, Life of Pi and Jurassic Park are among this year’s picks. Loree Grand Field at 2nd and L Streets.Free. www.nomasummerscreen.com

Screen on the Green
July 20 to August 10
NATIONAL MALL, DC. There’s no better way to enjoy film than outdoors, surrounded by friends and beautiful sunsets. This year’s lineup includes North by Northwest andBack to the Future. National Mall, between 7th and 12th Streets. Free.www.hbo.com/screenonthegreen

THURSDAYS
Canal Park Movies
June 2 to August 11
SE, DC. From classics to the latest Academy Award winners, the people spoke and the movies will be shown! Join the Riverfront community for free movies at Canal Park on Thursday evenings, from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Mean Girls to The Martian andCreed. Free. www.capitolriverfront.org

FRIDAYS
Rosslyn Cinema: Incredible Journeys
June 3 to August 26
ROSSYLN, VA. Head to Gateway Park for this year’s Rosslyn Cinema Outdoor Movie Festival on Friday nights, featuring fare from food trucks and local restaurants, plus a glass of beer or wine at the mobile bar prior to show time. Eat, Pray, Love, Casablanca and Up are part of this year’s “Incredible Journeys” theme. Free. www.rosslynva.org

MUSIC FESTIVALS
(Please note, festivals taking place at Merriweather Post Pavilion or Jiffy Lube Live are not listed here, but instead appear in our regular music calendar.) 

SATURDAY, MAY 21
Preakness InfieldFest
BALTIMORE, MD. Get ready for the running of the Preakness Stakes with this year’s festival featuring two stages, the MUG club and unique attractions all day. Headliners include The Chainsmokers and Fetty Wap. Pimlico Race Course. $105.www.preakness.com

WMZQ Fest
BRISTOW, VA. Country fans, unite! Get country with Miranda Lambert, Kip Moore, Brothers Osborne and more. Jiffy Lube Live. Tickets start at $30.25.www.livenation.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26 – SUNDAY, MAY 29
Delfest
CUMBERLAND, MD. With acts like the Del McCoury Band and Tedeschi Trucks Band, you’re sure to find yourself in bluegrass bliss. Also, learn from the some of the best musicians in the business at Delfest Academy! The four-day adult pass starts at $185.50. www.delfest.com

SATURDAY, MAY 28 – MONDAY, MAY 30
Rockville Hometown Holidays
ROCKVILLE, MD. Enjoy several dozen live performances from rock ‘n’ roll and reggae artists, plus marching bands, floats and more at the Memorial Day Parade. Rockville Town Center. Free. www.rockvillemd.gov

THURSDAY, JUNE 2 – SATURDAY, JUNE 4
Mountain Music Festival
NEW RIVER GORGE, WV. Mountain Music Festival is an annual celebration of the best outdoor adventures West Virginia offers with live music to match. Situated on a 1,500 acre outdoor adventure resort in the New River Gorge, WV, Mountain Music Festival brings the spirit of Appalachia to life through its two greatest exports – music and wilderness. This year MMFest welcomes Louts, Galactic, Trampled by Turtles, The Infamous Stringdusters, Dumpstaphunk, Big Something and more to the stage atop Wonderland Mountain. ACE Adventure Resort. www.mountainmusicfestwv.com  

FRIDAY, JUNE 3 – SUNDAY, JUNE 5
The Capital Jazz Fest
COLUMBIA, MD. Come see New Edition, En Vogue and King, plus up-and-coming jazz and soul music artists, at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Ticket prices vary.www.merriweathermusic.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 10 – SUNDAY, JUNE 19
DC Jazz Festival
A citywide festival presenting 90+ bands, 300+ artists, 60+ venues including Yards Park, The Kennedy Center, The Hamilton Live, area clubs and restaurants, and National Parks venues, the festival presents a selection of the jazz genre’s most acclaimed and emerging artists, and provides enhanced exposure for the rich treasure trove of musicians from the Washington, DC area. Artists featured in this year’s festival include: Grrls Rule, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Eddie Plmieri, Igmar Thomas & Revive Big Band with Talib Kewli, Maceo Parker and many more. A highlight of the festival is the three day Jazz in the Yards weekend at Yards Park June 17 to 19. www.dcjazzfest.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 11
Heavy Seas Blunderbuss Music Fest
Heavy Seas is proud to present Baltimore harbor’s largest summer music festival: Blunderbuss Music Festival! Featuring Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Boom Box, Big Something, Cris Jacobs, Sweet Leda and more. www.hsblunderbuss.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 16  – SUNDAY, JUNE 19
Firefly
DOVER, DE:  Your favorite summer weekend is around the corner!! Artists include Mumford & Sons, Kings of Leon, Florence and the Machine, Deadlaus, Ellie Goulding, Disclosure, Blink 182, Death Cab for Cutie, Tame Impala, M83, A$AP Rocky, Major Lazer, The 1975, Of Monsters and Men, Chvrches, Two Door Cinema Club, Ludacris, The Neighbourhood, Earth, Wind and Fire, Group Love, Porter Robinson, Fitz & the Tantrums, Fetty Wap, Flogging Molly, Vince Staple and many more. Camping passes available. fireflyfestival.com.  

SATURDAY, JUNE 18
Silver Spring Blues Festival
SILVER SPRING, MD. An all-day blues block party with two stages, a fountain to cool off in, and plenty of places to eat and shop at the music-filled celebration. Downtown Silver Spring. Free. www.silverspringblues.com  

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 – SUNDAY, JUNE 19
Vine Rewind Festival
MT. AIRY, MD. Linganore Wine Cellars and Red Shedman Brewery are opening the gates to a weekend of fun. If you love music of the 70s, 80s and 90s, beer and wine, this is the festival for you. There’ll be plenty of vendors with crafts and food, and a relaxing outdoor atmosphere. Performances from The Reflex, Guys with Thin Ties and more.  11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Special pricing for Dads and Vets. Get all ticket info atwww.linganorewines.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 25
Starr Hill IPA JAMBEEREE
CROZET, VA. Starr Hill Brewery’s IPA JAMBEEREE is a festival celebrating India Pale Ales and live music in Virginia. The event will be held at the Hangar Park, across from Starr Hill Brewery & Tap Room. Attendees will sample over 50 different IPAs from more than 15 Virginia breweries, featuring rare and exclusive offerings from Starr Hill, as well as partake in interactive exhibits with local hop growers. A show-stopping lineup of live music performances complete the ultimate Starr Hill experience alongside food trucks, games, and proceeds to benefit a local non-profit organization. www.jambeeree.com.  

FRIDAY, JULY 15 – MONDAY, JULY 18
DOAH FEST
LURAY, VA. Doah Fest is a four-day celebration held on a private farm between the banks of the Shenandoah River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Doah is more than just a music festival. It is a chance to unplug and connect, to share positivity and happiness with a community of beautiful and optimistic people. Starting Friday afternoon the bands kick off and begin to fill the farm with great music. Jam, reggae, rock, bluegrass, indie and more on two stages by the river. Unlike any other festival, Doah allows you direct access to the Shenandoah River. Jump in cool off and relax. www.doahfest.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 27 – SUNDAY, JULY 31
FloydFest
FLOYD, VA.  It’s a Dreamweavin’ week at FloydFest 2016.  This world music festival set in the scenic Virginia Blue Ridge features Greg Allman, Warren Haynes, Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers and many, many more. Single, multi and camping passes available. www.floydfest.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20
Hot August Festival
COCKEYSVILLE, MD. Leftover Salmon and Railroad Earth are festival favorites, but added to this lineup are local sensations Thievery Corporation.  Gates open at 11 a.m., tickets are currently at $59. www.hotaugustfestival.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 28  – SUNDAY, AUGUST 29
Lockn’ Festival
ARRINGTON, VA.  Jam band fans, it may not get better than this.  Two nights and four sets of Phish, two nights of Ween, My Morning Jacket, Tedeschi Trucks Band and more, the stellar lineup is only matched by the stellar setting in the mountains of Virginia.  Tickets for both GA and camping passes are available. www.locknfestival.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3  – SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
Appaloosa Festival
FRONT ROYAL, VA. The Appaloosa Festival, DC’s annual roots music and camping festival, is Labor Day Weekend, in Front Royal, VA! Headliners include Scythian, The Black Lillies, Mipso, Marie Miller, Humming House, Socks in the Frying Pan, Six-String Soldiers, The Accidentals, and Lowland Hum. Scythian, festival hosts, was named Best DC Band by Washington City Paper. The Black Lillies dominate Americana radio, while Mipso’s latest debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Bluegrass. Humming House was a Huffington Post Top 15 of 2015 Festival Act, and Socks in the Frying Pan was #1 New Band in Ireland. The Accidentals are a Billboard Top 7 Breakout Act at SXSW, and Lowland Hum played NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series. Six-String Soldiers played Conan, and Marie Miller performed alongside Aretha Franklin, and Andrea Bocelli. The Appaloosa Festival, family-friendly, is at Skyline Ranch Resort, in the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Military discounts, children under 13 free:www.AppaloosaFestival.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 – SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Sonic Circuits Festival
NE, DC. Washington DC’s annual festival of cutting edge contemporary music that defies genres – experimental music that you won’t experience elsewhere. www.dc-soniccircuits.org