Summer is officially in full swing, and July has a full slate of fun lined up for Fairfax County! Between big holidays and momentous anniversaries, there is a myriad of ways to spend your summer days and nights in the nation’s capital region. Here's our roundup of July events and what to do in July.
Here are 7 things you should check out this July in Fairfax County, in no particular order, when you visit Northern Virginia this summer.
1. Celebrate Independence
Through July 4
Go big, or go home. Nobody does Independence Day like the National Capital Region! Enjoy fireworks shows, concerts, parades, hometown celebrations, and more. Be sure to check out our Independence Day Fireworks Guide to find out where to see dazzling displays this Fourth of July weekend. And if you want more than just fireworks, bookmark this Fourth of July resource for a list of events and activities for this year's spectacle.
2. Concerts Galore!
Image courtesy Wolf Trap
There's nothing quite like the electricity of a live concert performance. The energy elevates the crowd as the sweet melody of a song flows effortlessly from a talented musician. There's no shortage of both indoor and outdoor concerts this July to indulge in some live music. This summer, Wolf Trap is once again bringing legendary musicians, acclaimed singer-songwriters, and internationally recognized symphony orchestras to the Filene Center stage for their summer 2025 season. And don't miss Todo Sonido, a two-day music festival on July 12 & 13. Enjoy major Latin touring artists across two stages, picnic-style vibes (yes, you can BYO food and drinks), plus food trucks, cash bars, and free parking. Get 10% off when you purchase both days with code TS2DAY.
Need ideas to entertain the kiddos this summer? Be sure to also check out their shows at the Children's Theatre-In-The-Woods, including a special show with Sonia De Los Santos (separate ticket required)
Plus, the Fairfax County Park Authority is bringing back its Summer Entertainment Series with a variety of entertainers - from funk bands to tango musicians to Bolivian and West African cultural dancers. If you're looking for a full list of the free and low-cost outdoor performances this summer, be sure to check out our guide, Where to Find Outdoor Live Music in Fairfax County. To stay up to date on newly announced performances, bookmark our events calendar.
The Mosaic Live series at Mosaic District brings everything from Latin Pop to 90s-themed parties to Strawberry Lane. With so many amazing restaurants just a couple of steps away, it's the perfect way to grab dinner and enjoy the musical stylings of local artists.
Bonus: Taylor Swift Tribute Concert
Swifties, this one's for you! If you weren't able to snag your ticket for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, enjoy the next best thing for free at Reston Station. Performing songs from every Taylor Swift album - yes, even her newest album - Ada LeAnn will put on a show you won't want to miss. Come dressed as your favorite Era, bring your friendship bracelets, and shake it off!!
3. Shark Month
Here's another fin-tastic adventure for the kids! Get ready for an oceanic adventure like no other at the Children's Science Center Lab located in Fair Oaks Mall. It's that time of the year again to take a bite out of life and celebrate Shark Month! Dive into a world of fascinating creatures with special shark-themed activities designed to entertain and educate young minds. Discover the wonders of the deep blue sea, learn about different shark species, and unravel the secrets of these magnificent predators. Want to dive a little deeper? Come on July 26 to learn all about sharks with the help of a guest scientist and do not miss the chance to witness a special shark tooth excavation! The perfect way to wrap up Shark Month.
4. Celebrate Bastille Day
While America's Independence Day on July 4 signifies freedom from British rule, the French also celebrate their Independence Day just ten days later! On July 14, they commemorate the storming of the Bastille and the end of monarchy rule. To remember this iconic day, the famous Bastille Key represents liberation and can surprisingly be found in Fairfax County at George Washington's Mount Vernon. The key has been displayed in the mansion's passage since 1824, remaining in the same spot through three generations of Washingtons. [Please note: From 2023-2026, Mount Vernon is embarking on a landmark preservation project to safeguard the Mansion’s original building fabric and ensure its structural integrity for generations to come. To see the latest on the revitalization project, including what parts of the estate are not accessible to the public, click here. The Bastille Key is off view at this moment in time, but you can learn all about its history and arrival to Fairfax County in our Bastille Day article.]
5. Water You Waiting For?
When the temps rise, it's time to make a splash! From little ones to teens, there's something water-filled for every kiddo (and grown-up!) in Fairfax County. Cool off at splash pads like Our Special Harbor, one of the top-ranked in the nation, or run wild through the fountains at Mosaic District and the Reston Town Center. Want to go bigger? Waterparks like Pirate's Cove, Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole, and Atlantis Waterpark bring the thrills with slides, lazy rivers, giant dumping buckets, and soaking play zones. Even better, many are surrounded by picnic spots, trails, and mini golf courses to keep the adventure going all day long.
After a day in the sun, unwind with bites the whole crew will love. Fairfax County is home to amazing waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy great food and a view. Sip craft beer at Lake Anne Brew House, share a family meal at Kalypso's Sports Tavern, or catch the sunset over the Occoquan River at Brickmakers Cafe. Whether you're cooling off after some splash pad fun or just looking to relax by the water, these spots serve up great views and even better bites.
6. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth for National Ice Cream Month
Who doesn't love the familiar, sweet scent of freshly made waffle cones and churned ice cream? Fun Fact: In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day! With summer heating up, now's the perfect time to indulge in Fairfax County's local ice cream shops for a serving (or two... maybe three) of your favorite flavors.
7. Summer Family Fun
Let the summer family fun commence! There are so many activities to get kids of all ages up and moving to spend some quality time together. Strike up some friendly competition at our mini golf courses - with a variety of themes, lengths, and difficulties for everyone. Even head to our local zoofari at NOVA Wild to get up close and personal with the animals.
If these events and activities aren't enough for you, be sure to keep up with our main Events Calendar for an assortment of fun events happening all month long. Share what fun you end up having in Fairfax County on social media using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax. Did we miss anything above? Tell us in the comments below.
