Jackson Browne
Where: Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna
When: July 3, 8 p.m.
Legend has it that the Eagles’ “Take It Easy” would never have come to pass had singer-songwriter Jackson Browne been able to finish the song himself. Thankfully, Eagles frontman Glenn Frey penned the rest, with Browne eventually recording it for his own album. See if the song makes the set list, which is liable to also include “Doctor My Eyes,” “Running on Empty” and “The Pretender.” $45.
Red White and Views
Where: The View of DC, 1201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
When: July 3, 5-9 p.m.
If you just can’t wait to get into Fourth of July mode, head to The View of D.C. on the third of July. Their Independence Day-themed festivities include a hot dog-eating contest, U.S. trivia, live music, games, and food and drink specials. $10
Fourth of July Fireworks
Where: Various Locations
When: July 4
Arlington has multiple prime viewing locations for D.C.’s fireworks, including Long Bridge Park, the U.S. Air Force Memorial, Rosslyn’s Gateway Park, Gravelly Point, the U.S. Marine Corps War (Iwo Jima Memorial) and Key Bridge. You can also spy some local fireworks at Independence Day celebrations in Falls Church and McLean. Free.
Succulent and Cacti Dish Garden Workshop
Where: Botanologica, 817 West Broad Street, Falls Church
When: July 7, 10 a.m.-Noon
Why buy a potted faux succulent from Target when you can design an adorable arrangement yourself? Using tiny live plants, stones, containers and other decorative nick-knacks (we’re told there will be dinosaurs), make some home-decor magic happen. $40
Colbie Caillat featuring Gone West
Where: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
When: July 7, 7:30 p.m.
“Bubbly” singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat formed a folksy foursome with her fiance and another couple last year called Gone West. Hear the two-time Grammy winner behind pop earworm “Realize” tackle a country sound. $55.