#FlyWashington Magazine Summer 2018 | Page 65

Rolling Thunder® XXXI FAIRFAX county Summer in the National Capital Region is filled with fun outdoor activities, patriotic displays, and historical celebrations — the likes of which you’ll only find here. In Fairfax County, Virginia — located just west of Washington, D.C. and in the heart of Northern Virginia — visitors can embrace all that summer has to offer at an array of premier historic attractions, world-class arts performances, lush outdoor parks and gardens, and countless exciting special events. Here are three ways you can have an unforgettable visit to Fairfax County this summer. Attend Wolf Trap’s 2018 Summer Concert Series Beloved by concert-goers for its tranquil natural setting and diverse performances, Wolf Trap is truly a one-of- a-kind destination, as it is the only National Park in the country dedicated solely to the performing arts. Performances are ongoing throughout the year, but Wolf Trap is best known for its summer lineup at the Filene Center — a beautiful and majestic outdoor amphitheater that holds more than 80 shows from May through September. The Filene Center, and the lawns that surround it, form a 7,000-seat venue that affords attendees one of the most distinctive performance experiences found anywhere in America. Amenities found on-site include a full restaurant, concessions, and many other hospitality services. Pricing and ticket availability varies by performance and seat location. Get full summer schedule online at www.wolftrap.org. Witness Rolling Thunder® XXXI Each May, over 400,000 motorcycle riders from around the nation rally in the National Capital Region to meet old and new friends, to pay respect at the memorials, and participate in various Memorial Day events. On the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend, they make their way to the Pentagon, and ultimately into D.C. for a patriotic demonstration like no other. This display is an unforgettable site, for riders and spectators alike, and is intended to honor our veterans and remember the lost or missing soldiers from our nation’s conflicts. The heroes who ride into town for this annual event represent all types of their fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, coast guardsmen, firefighters, rescue personnel and law enforcement officers. Rolling Thunder® XXXI will take place on Sunday May 27, 2018 during Memorial Day Weekend. Join the American Celebration at George Washington’s Mount Vernon What better way to celebrate America on July 4th than to salute America’s first commander-in-chief during Mount Vernon’s annual Independence Day event? Observe an inspirational naturalization ceremony for new citizens with a special keynote address, dazzling daytime fireworks, military re-enactments complete with cannon fire, and participate in a wreath laying ceremony. Enjoy free birthday cake (while supplies last), a visit from General and Mrs. Washington, and a performance by the National Concert Band during its “Red, White and Blue” concert. Spend a truly inspiring day at a truly inspiring place. An American Celebration takes place rain or shine. Find more events and travel ideas at www.fxva.com. SUMMER 2018 63 FLYWASHINGTON.COM