The Barns at Wolf Trap / Photo courtesy of Wolf Trap
A lot of restaurants in Northern Virginia offer live music any given night, but there are over a handful where the focus is on the riffs and jams that you have to get to to truly listen to music the way it should be experienced: in intimate settings or out under the stars. We’ve even got an indoor arena.
Jammin Java
Small, dark and moody depending on the act, this Vienna spot focuses on musical acts of all genres and geography. And they are the venue that promotes local artists through an annual Battle of the Bands showcase.
The Birchmere
Just having celebrated 50 years in the business, there is no doubt that The Birchmere is an established name. The range of acts that come through spotlight the traditions of the industry. Recent acts have included David Crosby, Ray Charles, The Smithereens and many more.
The State Theatre
The name? It used to be a movie theater until 1998. Now it’s a Falls Church nightclub featuring tribute bands and bands known nationally in their own right.
Tally Ho Theatre
Leesburg got its own music venue just a few years ago when Tally Ho Theatre opened (another movie theater-turned-music venue). This space hosts indie, throwback and tribute bands along with hosting other events.
Jiffy Lube Live
Jiffy Lube Live is the venue for major headliners in the summer. The amphitheater seats 25,000—10,000 in reserved seats and 15,000 on the lawn. Annual events include Jimmy Buffett and WMZQ Fest, and each summer brings in many Billboard artists.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
One hundred and seventeen acres make up this national park that hosts today’s musical acts, shows and performances. Bring a picnic and a bottle of wine to enjoy on the lawn at Filene Center, or look into their Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods programs specifically geared toward younger audiences in the summertime.
EagleBank Arena
On the campus of George Mason University in Fairfax City is this 10,000-seat arena that is your best bet for big winter performances in the area as it’s an indoor venue. This is also the location for The Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus when it comes to town.
Who to follow on social media
AllThingsGoMusic.com: A D.C. blog for emerging indie acts that also hosts concerts throughout the District and the annual All Things Go Fall Classic.