(Updated at 11:30 a.m. on 9/14/2021) The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Sept. 14)

• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Joined by alternative folk band Waxahatchee, the country band led by Isbell, a former Drive-By Truckers guitarist and four-time Grammy Award winner, returns to Wolf Trap. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required. Tickets start at $47. Gates open at 6 p.m.

Thursday (Sept. 16)

• Bo-Nita — 8-9:30 p.m. at Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — Tysons theater company 1st Stage hosts an opening night for its latest play, which runs through Sept. 26. “Bo-Nita” follows the story of a 13-year-old girl and her mother trying to survive. Tickets start at $20, with discounts for military members and students.

Friday (Sept. 17)

• Chillin’ on Church — 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Church Street — The Town of Vienna holds its second and last block party featuring food trucks and alcohol. Bring your own lawn chairs and listen to Déja Grüv Band, a 14-piece ensemble that performs music genres from Motown and jazz to pop, rhythm and blues, country, and more.
• Shaed at The Plaza — 6:30 p.m. at Tysons Corner Center Plaza (1961 Chain Bridge Road) — Tysons Corner Center is closing out the summer with a September concert series at the mall plaza. Doors open at 5 p.m. for this week’s performer, indie pop trio Shaed.
• Sunset Cinema — 7:45-10 p.m. at Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave.) — Falls Church City’s fall outdoor movie series kicks off with Disney’s “Raya and the Last Dragon.” Visitors are encouraged to grab blankets, bring picnics, and/or enjoy snacks, drinks, and popcorn for sale.

Saturday (Sept. 18)

• Korus Festival — all day at the Bloomingdale’s parking lot (8100 Tysons Corner Center) — With hourly entertainment, kids’ activities, food, and more, celebrate Korean culture this weekend. The free festival begins at 10 a.m. both days and has hourly events throughout the day, ending at 9 p.m. on Saturday and 8 p.m. Sunday.
• Hop Harvest Beer Festival — 12-7 p.m. at Caboose Commons (2918 Eskridge Road) — Caboose Brewing Co. hosts several local breweries and cideries in Merrifield for the second annual Hop Harvest Festival. There will be a barbecue, an outdoor bar, and games.
• OFC Block Party — 1-4 p.m. at The Old Firehouse Center (1440 Chain Bridge Road) in McLean — McLean Community Center’s Old Firehouse celebrates 31 years of serving local youth with food, games, entertainment, crafts, giveaways, and more.
• Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show — 5 p.m. at McLean Central Park (1468 Dolley Madison Blvd.) —  The comedy-music duo will perform a free 90-minute kids-focused show, featuring ridiculous songs, tap dancing, and more.

Sunday (Sept. 19)

• Perchfest— 12-3 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. at Capital One Center (Capital One Drive North and South) — The sky park on top of Capital One Hall ends its three-day grand opening festival, which starts on Friday. Tickets for the first two days have already sold out, but registration is still open for the finale. Paid parking is available at the building on the Capital One Drive South side as well as surrounding lots.

Photo via USAsiaPacific/Twitter

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Sept. 7)

• Weird History for Kids — 4:30-5:15 p.m. at Dolley Madison Library (1244 Oak Ridge Avenue) — Learn about mummies through art, games, stories, and skill-building exercises in this month’s entry in the McLean-based library’s history series. Space is limited for the in-person event, which is geared toward kids aged 6-12.

Thursday (Sept. 9)

• Lake Street Dive with Valerie June at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Joined by alternative singer Valerie June, the long-running band blends pop, jazz, soul, disco, and rock to create a sound all its own. Proof of a vaccination or negative test for COVID-19 is required. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets start at $47.

Friday (Sept. 10)

• “Aspirations” Opening Night — 5-7 p.m. at Pars Place (2236-C Gallows Road) — Meet the local artists in an opening reception for their new art exhibit hosted by the Iranian-American Community Center in Dunn Loring. Face coverings or masks are required, and advanced registration is recommended.

Saturday (Sept. 11)

• Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony — 9 a.m. at the Freeman Store and Museum (131 Church St. NE) — The American Legion Dyer-Gunnell Post 180 in Vienna is hosting a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, marking 20 years since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
• 45th Annual Falls Church Festival — 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at City Hall (300 Park Ave.) — From children’s entertainment to a beer garden and booths for local crafters and others, the free admission festival will feature food, amusement rides, and entertainment. Visitors are encouraged to wear a mask while not eating or drinking and must wear one when entering the Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St.).
• Truck and Toss — 4 p.m. at Grace Christian Academy (3233 Annandale Road) — The food truck, craft beer, and cornhole festival benefits a tuition assistance program for the West Falls Church-based private school, which serves students up to eighth grade. General admission is $40.

Sunday (Sept. 12)

• Congenital Heart Walk — 9:45 a.m. at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — The walk supports The Children’s Heart Foundation mission to fund congenital heart defect  research. In-person activities are being held throughout the day, before and after the walk, and there’s also a virtual option. Register online.
• Tysons 5K — 9 a.m. race start at Tysons Corner Center (1961 Chain Bridge Road) — Through a partnership with Tysons Corner Center and Food for Others, the 3.1-mile race and fun run will raise money to provide rice and beans for dozens of families in need. Pre-registration is $35 for running in person or virtually, and walking is encouraged, too.

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Monday (Aug. 30)

• Blood Drive — 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Boro Station Conference Room (1775 Greenboro Station Place) — The Boro is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive. Sign-up slots are going fast so make sure to register ahead of time to donate blood to save lives.

Wednesday (Sept. 1)

• Classic Albums Live: Led Zeppelin IV at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — The cover band Classic Albums Live will perform the album “Led Zeppelin IV” in its entirety, including “Stairway to Heaven” and “Rock and Roll.” Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets start at $27.

Thursday (Sept. 2)

• Summer Live Music Series: David Thong Band — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the David Thong Band. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: La La Land — 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s movie series continues with “La La Land.” The film is rated PG-13 and will run for two hours and eight minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!

Friday (Sept. 3)

• Broadway in the Park at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Celebrating the return of live theater, Broadway stars Renée Elise Goldsberry and Brian Stokes Mitchell, along with Signature Theater cast members, will perform show-tune favorites like “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “The Schuyler Sisters.” Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets start at $32.
• Plaza Live! featuring Matthew West — 6:30 p.m. at The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center (1961 Chain Bridge Road) — The WGTS 91.9 Summer Concert on the Plaza is back with a free outdoor concert. Four-time Grammy nominee Matthew West is a Christian pop singer with more than 130 songwriting credits. The concert will start at 6:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and enjoy the concert.

Saturday (Sept. 4)

• Darius Rucker at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Former Hootie & the Blowfish lead singer and guitarist Darius Rucker is coming to Wolf Trap for a solo act. His solo career started in 2008, and he has since had four number one songs on the Billboard Country chart. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets start at $47.

Monday (Sept. 6)

• Labor Day Car Show — 8 a.m.-3 p.m. in the City of Fairfax — The annual Labor Day Car Show hosted by Fairfax City and the Clifton Lions Club is back for its 22nd year after turning into a “Wave Parade” for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There will be more show cars, food options, entertainment, and spectators than ever, and all proceeds go to local charities.

Photo via Classic Albums Live/Facebook

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Aug. 24)

• Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Michael Franti & Spearhead at Wolf Trap — 7 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — A funky jazz vibe is coming to Wolf Trap with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, while rapper/musician Michael Franti & Spearhead bring the high energy. Tickets start at $42, and the gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday (Aug. 25)

• Tysons Summer Soiree — 6-8:30 p.m. at Tysons Plaza (1420 Spring Hill Road) — The Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce invites both members and non-members to its annual summer soiree, which celebrates local businesses and nonprofits making a difference in the community. There will be food, drinks, entertainment, an auction, and an AirStream tasting bar from Lost Whiskey. Tickets cost $40 for chamber members and $55 for non-members.

Thursday (Aug. 26)

• The Princess Bride in Concert at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — The Academy Award-nominated movie “The Princess Bride” will screen at Wolf Trap with the National Symphony Orchestra playing the score. Wolf Trap says “missing this cinematic concert experience would be inconceivable!” Tickets start at $42, and gates will open at 6:30 p.m.
• Summer Live Music Series: Rock Creek Revival — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the band Rock Creek Revival. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: Step Up — 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s movie series continues with “Step Up.” The film is rated PG-13 and will run for one hour and 44 minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!
• Crafty Happy Hour — 5 – 6 p.m. at The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center — AR Workshop Alexandria and Barrel & Bushel are teaming up to host a happy hour and craft activity. AR Workshop will be there showing guests how to paint eco-friendly reusable tote bags or coaster sets. The crafts are complimentary for the first 50 guests to register, so sign up early to get your free craft!

Friday (Aug 27)

• Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Episode four of the Star Wars Series, A New Hope, is ready for the Wolf Trap audience with the National Symphony Orchestra playing the score to the movie. Tickets start at $40 and gates open at 6:30 p.m.
• Charmed Life — 8-9 p.m. at Boro Park (8350 Broad Street) — This autobiographical story written and performed by Lori Brown Mirabal is the next show in 1st Stage Theater’s Logan Festival of Solo Performance. It pays homage to famous opera singers, specifically Black women. Buy tickets online ahead of time to guarantee your seat.

Saturday (Aug 28)

• Brandi Carlile at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Six-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile comes to Wolf Trap. Carlile will perform with Amythyst Kiah, who fuses folk, blues and rock music in her latest album “Wary + Strange.” Tickets start at $47, and gates open at 6:30 p.m.
• Over the Edge — 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at The Hyatt Regency (7901 Tysons One Place) — The Hyatt Regency teams up with the company Over the Edge to host an urban rappelling fundraiser that will benefit Helping Haitian Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting orphaned and abandoned children in Haiti. Nearly 50 participants have already signed up to rappel down 14 stories of the hotel. No prior experience is required to register.
• VietFest— 10 a.m.-10 p.m. in Bloomingdale’s Parking Lot (1961 Chain Bridge Road) — Enjoy Vietnamese culture, music, food, and activities at the annual VietFest. There is food, fun, and entertainment for all on Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-8 p.m.) Check the website for more details on the event.

Photo via Steve Klamkin/Facebook

(Updated at 5 p.m.) Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts will reopen its indoor theater at The Barns this fall for the first live performances there since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020.

Kicking off on Oct. 1 with folk/country singer-songwriter Sean McConnell, the 2021-2022 season will mark the 40th anniversary of the 382-seat venue’s opening in 1981. It comes on the heels of the 50th anniversary of the park’s distinctive open-air amphitheater, the Filene Center.

Announced today (Tuesday) by the Wolf Trap Foundation, which manages and operates the venue, the initial lineup features a variety of genres, from pop-soul group The 5th Dimension and jazz legend Branford Marsalis to Broadway actress and singer Laura Benanti and comedy improv group The Second City.

“We are greatly looking forward to welcoming audiences and performers back to The Barns at Wolf Trap in a safe and responsible manner,” Wolf Trap Foundation President and CEO Arvind Manocha said in a press release. “Almost 18 months since the last performance, we will celebrate The Barns 40th anniversary with a wide range of performances to welcome fans back to this intimate and acoustically excellent setting.”

However, with COVID-19 still a concern, Wolf Trap performances have not entirely returned to normal.

While the Filene Center returned to full-capacity shows this month, Wolf Trap advises patrons in its 2021 policies to bring a face mask to wear in restrooms and other enclosed spaces, since the White House reimposed a mask requirement for all workers and visitors in federal buildings in late July.

Because The Barns are enclosed, face masks will be required for everyone regardless of vaccination status during all performances, except when in the act of eating or drinking. Masks will be given to individuals who don’t bring one or have one that doesn’t meet the park’s rule that it fully cover the nose, mouth, and chin.

To enter the venue, attendees must also present verification that they are either fully vaccinated or have tested negative for COVID-19 within the past 48 hours. Proof of vaccination can include the card itself, a photo, or a print-out from a medical provider or a state registry.

The Virginia Department of Health has a portal where residents can find a record of their vaccination in the Virginia Immunization Information System.

Tickets for the 2021-2022 season will go on sale at 10 a.m. this Friday (Aug. 20) and can be purchased online.

From the press release, the full list of announced performers at The Barns is below: Read More

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Aug 17)

• 123 Andrés at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — Latin Grammy winners 123 Andrés brings a full band, high energy show recommended for children ages four to eight. Listen to the songs in both English and Spanish about family and community. Audience members are welcomed to sing and dance along!

Wednesday (Aug 18)

• Soul In Motion at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — Soul in Motion features dances, rhythms and folklore songs from the traditional cultures in Senegal, Guinea, Brazil, and Cuba. Unique percussion instruments like djembes, djundjun, and shekeres will be introduced to the audience in this trip around the world.

Thursday (Aug 19)

• American Red Cross Blood Drive — 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave.) — The American Red Cross and McLean Community Center are seeking donors of all ethnicities for this blood drive. All donors will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card via email. Sign up for an appointment online and enter the sponsor word “HEARTOFGOLD” or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
• Train at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — The pop band Train has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide and has won four Grammys. They will be joined by Vertical Horizon with tickets starting at $47.
• Summer Live Music Series: November Morning — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the band November Morning. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: Clueless— 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s movie series continues with “Clueless.” The film is rated PG-13 and will run for one hour and 37 minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!
• U.S. Army Band Swamp Romp — 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park (2709 West Ox Road) – The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” will perform traditional jazz and folk at the U.S. Army Blues Swamp Romp, which has been active for almost 20 years in support of recruiting and community outreach.

Friday (Aug 20)

• Harry Connick Jr. and his Band at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Pop/jazz singer Harry Connick Jr. is coming to Wolf Trap with his seven-piece band. He has won Grammys, Emmys, and Tonys for his work in music, film, television, and Broadway. Tickets start at $44.
• Chillin’ on Church — 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Church Street — The Town of Vienna hosts the “hottest” block party around, featuring food trucks, drinks, and music from Ocho De Bastos. Parking will available.

Saturday (Aug 21)

• Falu at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — Grammy-nominated Falu and her band will take the Wolf Trap audience on a musical journey through South Asia and around the world. Falu teaches South Asian culture through song in three languages: English, Hindi, and Gujarati.
• Zakir Hussain and Red Baraat at Wolf Trap — 7:30 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Percussionist Zakir Hussain and party band Red Baraat team up with Falu’s Bollywood Orchestra for an evening of “high-energy Indian fusion with the timeless elegance of Bollywood’s musical golden age.”
• Making Opera Soup — 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 3-4:30 p.m. at Boro Park (8350 Broad Street) — This show written by and starring award-winning opera singer Lori Brown Mirabal will kick off 1st Stage Theater’s Logan Festival of Solo Performance on Saturday and Sunday. See the 1st Stage website for times and more details.
• Tinner Hill Music Festival — 11 a.m.-9 p.m. at Cherry Park (312 Park Ave.) — The 27th Tinner Hill Music Festival will celebrate local African American culture with a day-long concert, food, face painting, petting zoos, yoga and more. The full lineup of musicians, food vendors, and activities can be found on the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation’s website. Buy tickets online.

Sunday (Aug 22)

• Yacht Rock Revue at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — A Yacht Rock Revue performance is the late 70s/early 80s in a nutshell: soft rock hits, tight bell-bottom jeans, sunglasses at night, breezy dancing, and sax. Tickets start at $27.

Photo via Town of Vienna/Twitter

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Aug 10)

• Kids on the Green: Mr. Jon — 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on the Vienna Town Green (144 Maple Ave. E) — Vienna’s annual kids’ summer program presents Mr. Jon, a musician who plays music and tells stories for children. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on for the show. The performance will last 30-45 minutes, weather permitting.
• Pierce Freelon at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — Pierce Freelon and his hip-hop, electronic, jazz, and soulful beats are coming to Wolf Trap to share his journey as a millennial father with kids and adults. Local COVID-19 guidelines will be followed.

Wednesday (Aug 11)

• FLY Dance Company: The Gentlemen of Hip Hop at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — The FLY dance company is performing a fast-action and educational show for ages four and up. The show combines classical music and street dance to deliver an important social message.
• Pink Martini feat. China Forbes at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — The self-described “little orchestra,” Pink Martini will be performing a worldwide music selection at Wolf Trap. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday (Aug 12)

• Summer Live Music Series: Moose Jaw Bluegrass — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the band Moose Jaw Bluegrass. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: Pitch Perfect— 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s movie series continues with “Pitch Perfect.” The film is rated PG-13 and will run for one hour and 52 minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!
• Big Screen on the Green: Onward — 8-10 p.m. at Vienna Town Green (144 Maple Ave. E) — The Town of Vienna is hosting a movie night on the Town Green. This week’s movie is “Onward.” The film is a Disney movie, rated PG, and will run for one hour and 42 minutes.
• Joan Jett and the Blackhearts at Wolf Trap — 7:30 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Joan Jett and the Blackhearts make their Wolf Trap debut with pure rock jams, including “I Love Rock ‘N Roll,” “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” and “Bad Reputation.”

Friday (Aug 13)

• Summer on the Green: US Navy Band Commodores — 6:30-8 p.m. at Vienna Town Green (144 Maple Ave. E) — The Town of Vienna’s free Summer on the Green concert will conclude this week with a performance from the US Navy Band Commodores. The concert will last roughly one and a half hours.

Saturday (Aug 14)

• Sonia De Los Santos and The Okee Dokee Brothers at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Road) — Mexican songstress Sonia De Los Santos and American folk duo The Okee Dokee Brothers team up for this bilingual performance. Playing songs from across North America, this performance captures the importance of learning and understanding one another. Music fans of all ages are welcome.
• Lorenzo the Great Magic Show (Online) — 11-11:30 a.m. — The Mary Riley Styles Public Library presents a virtual magic show from local favorite magician Lorenzo the Great. Recommended for kids ages 3 and up, the show will stream on the library’s Facebook page, where the video will remain available through Aug. 21.
• Raheem DeVaughn and Friends at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s album “What’s Going On,” D.C. legend Raheem DeVaughn and a collection of other musicians will pay tribute to Gaye and his music. See the Wolf Trap event listing for the full lineup of musicians.

Sunday (Aug 15)

• ABBA The Concert at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — After their sold-out Wolf Trap performance in 2019, Sweden’s ABBA The Concert return as the top ABBA tribute group in the world. Join other fans of the Swedish pop group in hearing their iconic hits at the Filene Center.

Photo via The Visitor/Facebook

Renovations for the first phase of improvements at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts have been completed.

The renovations include the introduction of permanent, roofed wooden pavilions that replace temporary tents that covered the park’s Ovations restaurant, Encore Circle Lounge, and associates and terrace decks. The old temporary vinyl tents had to be erected each spring and taken down in fall.

Each of the new structures were constructed out of Douglas fir and designed to match the Filene Center, a 7,000-seat outdoor amphitheater.

The finished renovations were revealed Thursday (July 29) during a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, the nonprofit that partners with the National Park Service to provide concerts and other programming at the park.

“This day has been five years in the making,” Wolf Trap Foundation President and CEO Arvind Manocha said. “Five years ago, we convened a group of leadership of the foundation and our partners at the National Park Service to consider this park’s needs and reflect carefully on how to bring Wolf Trap into the next half century as a national beacon for the performing arts.”

Each of the renovated pavilions retained the open-air concepts that distinguish Wolf Trap, and they are intended to enhance the park experience for the performance season and encourage a greater year-round use of the park than what was possible with the tents.

Additional announced enhancements include a replacement of the Filene Center’s over 20-year-old audio systems and the renovation of the backstage artist areas.

Funded with money that the foundation raised from private donors, the renovation project coincides with Wolf Trap’s 50th anniversary, which it celebrated on July 1.

“These projects were funded by members of our board, led by a group of visionary donors who stepped forward to ensure that we could move quickly and decisively,” Manocha said.

The renovations fall in conjunction with upgrades being performed by the National Park Service. Those upgrades include security upgrades, the installation of new fencing, and electrical infrastructure improvements.

The park service is also looking at some more substantial updates, such as a new pedestrian tunnel, as part of a proposed amendment to Wolf Trap’s master plan. The NPS detailed its plans in a virtual meeting on May 25 and closed a public comment period for a required environmental assessment on June 25.

Wolf Trap National Park Acting Superintendent Ken Bigley says finished and planned upgrades illustrate the National Park Service and Wolf Trap Foundation’s shared commitment to ensuring that visitors “have a memorable, amazing experience” at the park.

“We are in this business for the long term,” Bigley said. “We wanted to build advocacy for a love of the performing arts, for a love of the importance of live music and dance, a love of public lands.”

Dan D’Aniello, who chairs the Wolf Trap Foundation board of directors, closed out the ribbon-cutting event by challenging everyone in attendance to continue to “embrace what needs to be done to ensure that this asset remains viable and dear to not only us, but all people.”

“We are deeply, deeply proud of our friendship and partnership with the National Park Service, both from cultural perspective in artistic programming and from a financial perspective in our role as philanthropic partner,” D’Aniello said. “We are and we will continue making good on our promises to advance the potential of Wolf Trap.”

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (Aug 3)

• Collision of Rhythm at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods (1551 Trap Road) — For August and September, Wolf Trap is returning to full-capacity shows. Collision of Rhythm is a non-stop performance of percussions, marimba, singing, juggling and more that is sure to get your toe-tapping. Tickets can be purchased online, and questions can be directed to Wolf Trap’s patron services at 703-255-1868 or [email protected].
• Kids on the Green: Blue Sky Puppets — 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Vienna Town Green (144 Maple Ave. E) — Vienna’s annual kids’ summer program presents Blue Sky Puppets, a professional touring children’s puppet show. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on for the show. The performance will last 30-45 minutes, weather permitting.

Wednesday (Aug 4)

• Yogapalooza with Bari Koral at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods (1551 Trap Road) — Popular Youtuber Bari Koral will lead an interactive concert that “blends imaginative songs, yoga poses, and dance breaks that families can enjoy together.” Tickets can be purchased online.
• Straight No Chaser at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Straight No Chaser is an a-cappella group with over 100 million YouTube views along with collaborations with Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Dolly Parton. Tickets can be purchased online.

Thursday (Aug 5)

• Lindsey Stirling at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling is coming to Wolf Trap for a concert and meet and greet. Ticket bundles for the meet and greet and limited edition merchandise are available online.
• Summer Live Music Series: Desert Shade — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the band Desert Shade. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: Hairspray— 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s movie series continues with “Hairspray.” The film is rated PG and will run for one hour and 57 minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!

Friday (Aug 6)

• Renée Fleming at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Known for her “sumptuous voice, consummate artistry, and compelling stage presence,” award-winning singer Renée Fleming will be coming to Wolf Trap for the first time in 15 years to celebrate Wolf Trap’s 50th anniversary with the National Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are available online.

Saturday (Aug 7)

• Town Clean Up Day — 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Vienna Town Green — For the Town of Vienna’s annual August clean up day, volunteers will be assigned a location around town that could use some sprucing up. The event is being coordinated by the parks and recreation department, which will provide supplies and assistance. Participants can pre-register by emailing [email protected], but it is not required.
• Danny Weinkauf and his Red Pants Band at Wolf Trap — 10:30 a.m. at Theatre-in-the-Woods (1551 Trap Road) — Bassist Danny Weinkauf and his Red Pants Band are bringing some family-friendly jams to Wolf Trap. Fan favorites on their new album include “Dinosaurs on Roller Skates” and “Your Love is a Metaphor.” Don’t miss out on the fun by reserving your tickets online ahead of time.

Photo via Danny Weinkauf/Facebook

The Weekly Planner is a roundup of interesting events coming up over the next week in the Tysons area.

We’ve searched the web for events of note in Tysons, Vienna, Merrifield, McLean, and Falls Church. Know of any we’ve missed? Tell us!

Tuesday (July 27)

• Joanie Leeds at Wolf Trap — 11 a.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Grammy Award-winner Joanie Leeds uses her music to celebrate influential women to inspire people of all ages and gender indentieis. Tickets will be sold in socially distanced pods for two to eight people with no single tickets available. Questions can be directed to Wolf Trap’s patron services at 703-255-1868 or [email protected].

Wednesday (July 28)

• Elena Moon Park and Friends at Wolf Trap — 11 a.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Korean-American musician Elena Moon Park and her friends lead the audience around the globe through song. The show is aimed at children, playing music from East and Southeast Asia. Patrons are invited to dance and sing-along on this musical journey.
• Aoife O’Donovan at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Grammy Award-winner Aoife O’Donovan comes to Wolf Trap to share her songwriting talents. She has three solo albums and performs with the supergroup I’m With Her.

Thursday (July 29)

• The War and Treaty at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — The War and Treaty comes to Wolf Trap to perform “a bluesy but joyful fusion of Southern soul, gospel, country, and rock ‘n’ roll.” The husband-and-wife team of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Blount-Trotter look to “create an endlessly exhilarating exchange of energy with their audience.”
• Summer Live Music Series: Practically Einstein — 5:30-8 p.m. on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park (8350 Broad St.) — This week’s live music performance at The Boro features the band Practically Einstein. RSVP for more information.
• Films in the Park: Miracle— 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Park (2910 District Ave.) — The Mosaic District’s drive-in movie series continues with “Miracle.” The Disney film about the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team is rated PG and will run for two hours and 15 minutes. Grab your picnic blanket and join your neighbors at Strawberry Park for a movie night!
• Concerts in the Park: Big Tow — 7-9 p.m. at Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave.) — Local cover band Big Tow will provide the final show of Falls Church’s Concert in the Park series. Email [email protected] with questions or concerns.

Friday (July 30)

• Tysons Block Party — 4-8 p.m. at 8505 Leesburg Pike — Celebrate Fairfax kicks off its 40th celebration event series in Tysons with food, drinks, lawn games, and live entertainment courtesy of musician Shane Gamble. The event is free to the public and will take place rain or shine. There is limited on-site parking, but it is within a half-mile of the Spring Hill Metro station.
• Norm Lewis at Wolf Trap — 8 p.m. at the Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) — Tony-nominated Norm Lewis will perform a collection of Broadway classics with the National Symphony Orchestra. He will also perform on Saturday. A full list of songs being performed is available on the Wolf Trap website.

Sunday (Aug 1)

• Chamber Music at The Alden: Pianist Thomas Pandolfi — 2 p.m. at The Alden (1234 Ingleside Ave.) — The McLean Community Center and The Alden is hosting Pianist Thomas Pandolfi on Sunday. Since beginning his career at The Julliard School, he has sold out Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center among others. Buy tickets online and masks are required.

Photo via The War and Treaty/Facebook