The nation’s capital transforms into a musical paradise during the summer months, with an exciting lineup of outdoor concerts and festivals that showcase everything from local military bands to the world’s biggest pop stars. So, if top-tier entertainment is on your to-do list this summer, check out this guide to the best concerts and Washington DC festivals and get ready to jam to your favorite tunes.
Popular Summer Festivals
Broccoli City Festival: August 8–10
This festival takes place over one epic weekend, kicking off with a Trap Karaoke Party on August 8, followed by a massive Block Party on August 9 featuring food trucks and live DJs. The Breezy Bowl XX with headliner Chris Brown on August 10 is sold out, but you can always try your luck on resale sites or beg your friends who already snagged tickets.
DCBX: August 22–25
Bust out your dancing shoes, because DCBX—considered the best Latin dance festival in the U.S.—is coming to town. Experienced dancers and newbies alike can experience bachata, salsa, and other sexy Latin dances through a series of live concerts, workshops and dance contests.
DC JazzFest: August 27–31
DC JazzFest brings national and local musicians to venues like The Wharf and The Anthem this Labor Day weekend. This year’s headliners include Branford Marsalis, Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter, Lalah Hathaway, the String Queens, the John Scofield Trio, Sun Ra Arkestra, and Matthew Whitaker. Both free and ticketed performances are included.
Outdoor Concerts
Nationals Park
The home of the Washington Nationals transforms into one of the city’s hottest concert destinations over the summer, with three different live music experiences. Full park shows feature major headlines, Plaza Stage shows take place in the Navy Yard, and Post-Game Summer Concerts turn game nights into party nights.
Big names gracing the stage at Nationals Park this year include the Jonas Brothers on August 12; country music star Sam Hunt on August 15; Ja Rule and Ashanti on August 29; Billy Joel and Sting, together for a one-night-show on September 5; and The Lumineers on September 6.
Music fans can also enjoy the CultureFest Block Party at the Plaza Stage on September 7, and Cooper Alan on September 11.
The Bullpen
This Navy Yard venue is the ultimate destination for both Nationals fans and live-music connoisseurs. This summer’s outdoor concerts just steps from Nationals Park include country band Eli Young Band on July 24 and Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band The Springsteen Experience on July 31.
Northwest Stadium
Preseason NFL football starts in August, but before the Washington Commanders take over Northwest Stadium for the season, you can catch The Weeknd here on August 2. The pop/R&B star brings his “After Hours Til Dawn” tour to this venue in Landover, MD, with special guest rapper Playboi Carti.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
This beloved outdoor venue in Vienna, VA, hosts some of the best concerts of the summer, including performances by the National Symphony Orchestra. Also on the calendar this season are concerts by “Weird Al” Yankovic (July 20 & 22), Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue (July 24), Emmylou Harris & Graham Nash (July 31), James Taylor & His All-Star Band (August 21, 23 & 24), and John Legend (September 2 & 3). Broadway fans won’t want to miss the special shows on September 6 and 7, when Wicked star Cynthia Erivo performs Broadway hits supported by the National Symphony Orchestra.
The Anthem
This is technically an indoor music venue, but The Anthem‘s Marquee Bar offers stunning outdoor views of the Washington Channel during shows. This summer, the lineup includes the Pixies (July 25–26), The Fray (August 1), Drive-By Truckers & Deer Tick (August 2), The Struts (August 17), and Jessie Murph (August 27).
R&B On The Water DC: Summer Series 2025
Experience the 4th Annual R&B on the Water Summer Series at the Navy Yard Waterfront (July 27 & September 14, 6–11 PM). This indoor/outdoor venue features live bands, DJs, food, and summer chic vibes with a dress code and cash bar available.
Free Concert Series
U.S. Capitol Summer Concert Series
For a family-friendly music experience this summer, enjoy free military band concerts on the U.S. Capitol West Front through August 29. On Monday evenings, you’ll see the U.S. Navy Band, on Tuesdays, the U.S. Air Force Band. Wednesdays are for the U.S. Marine Band, and on Fridays, the U.S. Army Band takes the stage.
Rock the Dock at The Wharf
Every Wednesday at 7:00 PM on Transit Pier, enjoy free concerts featuring local artists. The lineup is diverse, with funk, big horns, 90s pop, and 2000s hits all represented.
Glen Echo Park Summer Concerts
These free live music concerts take place every Thursday from 7:30-8:30 PM in the Bumper Car Pavilion, through August 21. The lineup includes the U.S. Marine Band Latin Jazz Ensemble (July 24), Halley’s Hot Gumbo Swingtet (July 31), and the James Bazen Big Band (August 21).
Capitol Riverfront Summer Concert Series
These free concerts at the Yards Park boardwalk come with river views, and are great for all ages.
Make the Most of Washington DC Festivals
Summer isn’t here forever, so take advantage of sunny days and balmy nights and get outside to enjoy live music this season. Whether you’re into brass bands, big name pop stars, or beats of an entirely different kind, there’s a Washington DC music festival for you and your family to enjoy. Get on out there and soak up the rhythm.
