This spring and summer, take advantage of the countless outdoor arts opportunities in and around town. Here are just six of the many options to enjoy performances, outdoor movies, outdoor art exhibits and more.
1551 Trap Rd.
Vienna, VA 22182
Wolf Trap is gearing up for a jam-packed season. Enjoy a show – and a picnic — under the stars from big names like The Avett Brothers, John Fogerty, Brandi Carlile, James Taylor and more.
Constitution Ave. NW and 7th St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20408
The popular summer concert series is back with musical performances including jazz, Latin fusion, bluegrass and more. New this year: a lottery system (free) so that anyone interested in attending has an equal chance. Each concert will have its own lottery, which opens one week before on Monday at 10 a.m. and will close the following Friday at noon. Results will be emailed to all entrants of the concert Monday at 10 a.m. Registration is required for those ages 2+.
Summer at Strathmore: Live from the Lawn
5301 Tuckerman Lane
North Bethesda, MD 20852
The Strathmore’s popular “Live from the Lawn” concert series is back this summer, beginning July 5. This year, the venue added a new companion concert series just for kids called “Cool Concerts for Kids.” Shows begin at 7 p.m.
2700 F St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20566
Don’t miss The Kennedy Center’s outdoor film screenings on the REACH Video Wall. A highlight is May 26 with “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Films start at sundown (or around 8 p.m.) The film screenings are free and first come, first served.
Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens
4155 Linnean Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20008
Don’t miss Hillwood’s Divas Outdoors event Thursday June 22. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with the opportunity to explore Hillwood, followed by a picnic spread contest, then at 8:45 p.m., enjoy the classic movie “Moonstruck.” Guests are encouraged to dress in 1980s style costumes from the movie and have themed picnic spreads that coincide with the film.
Summer Block Party at The National Building Museum
401 F St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
The National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party installations have been delighting since 2015. This summer, Suchi Reddy, founder and principal of Reddymade Design Studio, will be transforming the museum with a new installation titled “Look Here.” Reddy is the first BIPOC woman to partner with the museum on this annual exhibit. A special outdoor display will be unveiled later this month — stay tuned!