Things to Do in Northern Virginia July 2026 — Your Complete Summer Guide

July in Northern Virginia is one of those months where you genuinely run out of weekend before you run out of things to do. County fairs, food festivals, outdoor concerts, winery events, family adventures, and arts experiences are happening all month long — and that's before you factor in the day trip options just a short drive away. Here's everything worth knowing about things to do in Northern Virginia this July 2026.

Things To Do In Northern Virginia July 2026: Summer Festivals

July is festival season in NoVA and the lineup this month does not disappoint.

Summer of Sunflowers at Great Country Farms — July 11 through August 14

Bluemont, VA | 9am–5pm

Wander through vibrant sunflower fields, pick your own bouquet, and enjoy family-friendly farm activities all summer long at Great Country Farms in Bluemont. This annual favorite runs through mid-August so you have plenty of time to plan a visit.

greatcountryfarms.com

Christmas in July: Handmade Market at Bear Chase Brewing — July 11

Bluemont, VA | 11am–5pm

Get a head start on holiday shopping while browsing handcrafted goods from local artisans, enjoying craft beverages, and taking in scenic Blue Ridge Mountain views at Bear Chase Brewing Company.

Purcellville Wine and Food Festival — July 18

Purcellville, VA | 2pm–8pm

Award-winning wines, local craft beer, delicious cuisine, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Loudoun wine country. This one is worth putting on the calendar early.

Loudoun County Fair — July 21 through 25

Leesburg, VA | Times vary

One of Loudoun County's most beloved summer traditions returns with carnival rides, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and classic fair food. On July 25th, catch a special bluegrass performance by The Brothers Young from 5pm to 8pm.

Food and Drink

Northern Virginia's food and drink scene is particularly active this July — here are the highlights worth planning around.

Leesburg Restaurant Week — July 10 through 19

Historic Downtown Leesburg

Prix fixe menus, chef specials, and exclusive offerings from many of downtown Leesburg's favorite restaurants. If you've been wanting to try somewhere new in Leesburg, this is your week to do it.

Spend an Italian Evening at La Farmette — July 10

Lovettsville, VA | 6pm–8pm

Handmade pasta, tiramisù, generous aperitivo, and authentic Italian hospitality in a beautiful farm setting. This immersive culinary experience sells out quickly — reserve your spot early.

Whiskey Wednesday Guided Tasting at Vault and Cellar — Every Wednesday

Middletown, VA | 6pm–8pm

Join Bourbon Steward Dan for a guided tasting featuring rotating whiskey selections and educational insights every Wednesday evening. A recurring gem worth knowing about.

Family Fun

Labrador Retriever Pup Meet-Up at Henway Cider Barn — July 11

Bluemont, VA | 12pm–4pm

Calling all Lab lovers — spend an afternoon with fellow dog owners while your furry friends socialize on the farm and enjoy the relaxed cider barn atmosphere.

Chalk Daze at Claude Moore Recreation Center — July 16

Sterling, VA | 10am–11am

Kids can unleash their creativity with sidewalk chalk art, games, and outdoor fun at this colorful summer activity. Registration is required.

Moonlit Movie Series: Zootopia 2 — July 24

Stephens City, VA | 8:30pm

Bring blankets and lawn chairs for a free family movie night under the stars. Sweet treats available for purchase.

Live Music and Entertainment

A Laugh and a Lark at Lark Brewing Co. — July 10

Aldie, VA | 7pm

Grab a craft beer and settle in for an evening of stand-up comedy featuring headliner Sterling Scott at one of Aldie's favorite local spots.

Gardens at Night: Soul Expressions — July 10

Winchester, VA | 6pm–9pm

Dance beneath the stars while Soul Expressions performs Motown classics, funk favorites, and today's biggest hits in the beautiful museum gardens.

Arts and Culture

Paint Pouring with Caitlin Keefe at Ashburn Library — July 13

Ashburn, VA | 6:30pm–8pm

Learn the colorful art of paint pouring while creating your own unique abstract masterpiece. Supplies are limited and available on a first-come basis.

Disney's The Little Mermaid at Old Opera House Theatre — July 24 through 31

Charles Town, WV

Journey under the sea with Ariel and friends during this beloved Broadway musical. A perfect family outing for the last weekend of July — just across the Virginia border in Charles Town.

Day Trips Worth the Drive

Sometimes the best summer days are the ones that take you just a little further afield. Here are two worth adding to your July calendar.

Crab Fest — July 11

Baltimore, MD | 5:30pm–9:30pm

Maryland crab season plus live music, craft beer, and artisan vendors. About an hour and fifteen minutes from most of NoVA — an easy and delicious summer evening.

Dumpling Fest DC — July 15

Washington, DC | 5pm–9pm

A self-guided culinary tour featuring dumplings from around the world — soup dumplings, momos, tamales, mandu, and more. DC is practically in your backyard and this one is genuinely fun.

Closing

July in Northern Virginia is genuinely one of the best months of the year to be here. Whatever you're into — farm days, live music, food festivals, family adventures, or a quick day trip — there's something on this list for you. Save this post, share it with your family, and make the most of summer while it's here.

Janelle Brevard | Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty | janellebrevardrealestate.com