Washington, DC Brings the Fun Outdoors with Music, Brews, and Movies

During the summer, everything is more fun outside. Maybe it’s the extended daylight hours or the leafy green scenery, but we make every effort to spend as much time outdoors as we can. Sure, it’s hot, but if you’ve got a beer in your hand and some music in your ears, the temperature doesn’t matter. Washington, DC has a lineup of concerts and festivals throughout the summer months that will have you headed south with sunscreen and lawn chair in hand.

July

Taylor Swift

One night in the capital city isn’t enough for this blond bombshell. When Taylor Swift’s July 13^th date sold out, she added another show on July 14^th. Both take place at Nationals Park located in the revitalized Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Vance Joy and Haim open for Swift, who then takes the stage with hit after hit from her 1989 World Tour.

Brew at the Zoo

The National Zoological Park is a popular attraction on its on, but when you add more than 70 craft breweries pouring beer on July 23, it’s a don’t-miss destination. Plus, proceeds from the day benefit animal care and conservation science at the zoo. Presented by Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ), the event includes local band The Bachelor Boys, lawn games, and animal demonstrations. Purchase a VIP ticket for early admission, access to the VIP area, food tastings by local restaurants, and a takeaway gift.

August

Zac Brown Band and The Avett Brothers

Music fills the field at Nationals Park on August 14. The Avett Brothers bring a mix of country, bluegrass, and folk rock. The Zac Brown Band is known for signature good-time country hits about “toes in the sand” and “cold beer on a Friday night.” Together, these groups promise a high-energy show that spans musical genres and generations.

Comcast Outdoor Film Festival

Just north of Washington, DC, and accessible by train, Rockville, Maryland, is home to the Comcast Outdoor Film Festival. The event takes place over three evenings, August 21-23. It celebrates the simple, timeless pleasure of a drive-in movie. The family-friendly event has music and food starting at 5:30 p.m.; the movies start at dusk. This year’s lineup includes How To Train Your Dragon 2, Interstellar, and Guardians of the Galaxy.

September

Labor Day Capitol Concert

The National Symphony Orchestra sends summer out in style on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on Sunday, September 6. The event is free and doesn’t require tickets. But the lawn will fill up quickly. Gates open at 3 p.m., and open rehearsal begins at 3:30 p.m. The main show starts at 8 p.m. Food is permitted, so pack a picnic, arrive early to claim your spot, and enjoy the afternoon. Although the Labor Day holiday marks the end of summer, the concert celebrates the beginning of the performing-arts season. The annual event promises patriotic favorites.

For more details about these concerts and festivals, click here. Once you select your favorite event, click here to reserve your hotel, find a restaurant, and explore everything Washington, DC, has to offer.