UPDATED: There is always something going on in Vienna during the summer… so don’t be surprised if you have two choices on the same day and have to make a tough decision.
Personally, I just realized that my annual neighborhood block party is the same day as The Beatles – White Album show at Wolf Trap. This show really sounded amazing and well produced. Ugh, I was really excited to experience a little Beatlemania.
What is Wolf Trap? Keep reading.
There are plenty of free events that the Town of Vienna sponsors too that will keep you busy.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
Wolf Trap is a year-round venue, but during the summer the Filene Center opens and a wide range of performances takes place almost nightly. The 2021 summer schedule has been published and it is worth looking at since some shows sell out quickly, even the lawn seats.
The Filene Center is an outdoor, covered amphitheater with a Broadway stage. Although it is a National Park, shows are booked by the Wolf Trap Foundation since you can’t get competitive bids when you book Tony Bennett or Ziggy Marley.
There are plenty of seating options inside, and most days you can drive to the box office or buy online.
And most days you can walk inside for a quick look.
If you live in Vienna and haven’t been in a while, then you should check out the performance list because you might be impressed with the new acts. About five years ago they brought in a new leader from L.A. with a bit of Hollywood Bowl experience, and the variety of shows has been updated… you’ll be impressed.
Parking is free.
Vienna Town Green
The Green is located just off the W&OD Trail and Freeman House, or the corner of Mill and Church Streets. A few years ago, the stage was rebuilt with a curved barrel roof to cover the stage which provides the performers far better acoustics.
Plan to sit on the lawn to watch performances. Alcohol is not permitted.
Starting on Friday, June 25, 2021, the Concerts on the Green season kicks off with the Vienna Idol at 6:30.
The Fat Chance band is scheduled for July 30th!
Special kids events include The Great Zucchini magic show on Wednesday, June 27th at 10:00 am.
Chillin’ on Church Street- every 3rd Friday
Chillin’ on Church Street is a monthly block party of fun for the whole Town. In 2021, they will be held from 6:30-9:30 pm every third Friday in August and September on historic Church Street, the event includes food, local beer and wine, music, and family-friendly activities. Admission is free. See Chillin’ on Church for details.
Viva! Vienna! and other events on Church Street
Only after chili-cheese dogs at the Vienna Inn, people remember Vienna for the Memorial Day weekend festival. Over that three day weekend starting May 26th, carnival rides and food trucks roll in and set up along Church Street and the W&OD Trail for Viva Vienna!
There are rides and games for everyone, and the party rolls into the evening with musical acts, dancing, and a little romantic magic.
Vienna Farmers’ Market
Saturday mornings, head over to the Vienna Community Center at Cherry and Park Streets to pick up locally grown vegetables and other craft foods. Current location for the Vienna Farmers’ Market.
On Sunday’s, the NOVA Central Farmers’ Market is in the back parking lot at Holy Comforter Church at 543 Beulah Road NE in Vienna. Open 8:30 – 1:00
And there’s more going on…
I hope this gives you a quick idea of what is going on here in Vienna.
But remember that this is just the tip of the things to do since there are fireworks in Town and in Washington, D.C., and D.C. has it’s own long list of activities to enjoy.
Have a great summer!
