Your Guide to the Long Weekend in Northern Virginia and DC
September 4 - 7, 2026
September is here, and while fall is not official just yet, Labor Day weekend has always felt like summer's warm goodbye.
The good news for us? You do not have to go far to make the most of the long weekend. From jazz on the waterfront to Highland games in the countryside, here are twelve ways to fill the days close to home - all within an easy drive of Northern Virginia.
All Weekend Long
DC JazzFest
Sept 2 - 6 | The Wharf, Washington, DC | Waterfront finale Sept 5 - 6, noon to 10 p.m. | From about $29
Five days of world-class jazz spread across the District, wrapping up with a two-day celebration along the Potomac at The Wharf. Expect a rich mix of established names and rising talent, with sounds that stretch from classic jazz into funk, Latin, gospel and the blues.
DC Festival of Magic
Sept 4 - 6 | Capital Hilton, Washington, DC | Single shows from about $15; all-access passes available
Now in its sixth year, this three-day showcase gathers some of the finest magicians around for a weekend of illusions, sleight of hand, mentalism and plenty of comedy. With five headline performances plus family-friendly options, there is a little wonder here for every age.
Virginia Scottish Games
Sept 5 - 6 | Great Meadow, The Plains, VA | From about $25
The 52nd running of this beloved heritage festival brings the spirit of Scotland to Hunt Country. Watch piping and drumming, heavy athletics, Highland dance and fiddling competitions, then wander through clan gatherings, sheepherding demos, Scottish fare and a marketplace full of finds.
Middle Eastern Food Festival
Sept 5 - 6 | Holy Transfiguration Church, McLean | Free admission and parking | Sat 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun 12:30 to 5 p.m.
For its 33rd year, this McLean tradition turns a church community into a two-day feast of shawarma, kebabs, handmade pastries and sweets, with live music, vendors and a dabke dance demonstration. Everything is made from scratch by parish volunteers, and proceeds support the church and its charitable work.
Friday, September 4
Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration
8 p.m. | Wolf Trap, Vienna | From about $51
The National Symphony Orchestra reimagines the music of Grateful Dead co-founder Jerry Garcia, joined by an all-star lineup of guests including The Jerry Garcia Band's Melvin Seals and Jacklyn LaBranch. A perfect excuse to pack a picnic for the lawn.
Suicideboys and Destroy Lonely
6:30 p.m. | Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow | From about $33
The New Orleans duo brings its Grey Day Tour to Bristow for a night of dark, atmospheric hip-hop, with Destroy Lonely, Shakewell, DRAIN and Black Kray rounding out the bill.
Saturday, September 5
Hook in Concert
7:30 p.m. | Wolf Trap, Vienna | From about $54
Celebrate the film's 35th anniversary with a big-screen showing while the National Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams' score live. Robin Williams stars as a grown-up Peter Pan returning to Neverland - a wonderful pick for a family movie night under the stars.
Blackberry Smoke
6:30 p.m. | Capital One Hall, Tysons | Around $54
The Georgia band marks 25 years with a show at Capital One Hall alongside The Steepwater Band. Their sound blends Southern rock, blues-leaning classic rock and rootsy country, with plenty from their latest album in the mix.
Sunday, September 6
DC State Fair
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Anthem Row, Washington, DC | Free
The 17th annual fair is a free, all-day celebration of everything homegrown and handmade in the District. Enjoy live music, hands-on demonstrations, a kids' zone and more than 50 agricultural, culinary and artistic competitions.
LoCo Fest
Noon to 9 p.m. | 868 Estate Vineyards, Hillsboro | From about $45
Now in its ninth year, this all-day community fundraiser puts 15 Loudoun County bands on stage against a gorgeous vineyard backdrop. Bring a chair, sip local wine and beer, graze from the food trucks, and know your ticket helps fund music equipment for local schools and musicians.
Shreya Ghoshal
7:30 p.m. | Wolf Trap, Vienna | From about $76
Bollywood megastar Shreya Ghoshal brings her Unstoppable Tour to Vienna for an evening of live music. Known for hits like "Dola re Dola" and collaborations with composers such as A.R. Rahman, she is a treat for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Catch It Before It Closes
Hershey Super Sweet Adventure
Through Monday, Sept 7 | Tysons Corner Center, Tysons | From about $20
This is your last chance to catch the interactive experience inspired by Hershey's classic treats. The family-friendly attraction mixes hands-on challenges with playful, immersive rooms - a sweet way to send off the summer with the kids.
Live music, local festivals, food and family - all within an easy drive. It is a good reminder of how much there is to enjoy about calling Northern Virginia home.
If you have ever thought about putting down roots here, or finding a home that puts you closer to the things you love, I would be glad to help. Reach out anytime - no pressure, just a friendly conversation about what is possible.
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Get Your ReportHi, I'm Ritu Desai!
A dedicated DMV Realtor with 20+ years of experience helping buyers and sellers navigate the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. real estate market. I have lived here most of my life, and I LOVE what I do.
Moving to or selling in the DMV area? Whether you are buying, selling, or just exploring, I am here to make the process smooth, stress-free, and successful.
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Buying, selling, or simply curious what your options look like this fall.
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Office 14291 Park Meadow Drive, Ste 500Chantilly, VA 20151 |
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