Updated: June 2018
By Kelly Hwu, updated by Matthew Reichenbach
For some, being on stage is a nightmarish scenario of endless terror second only to singing restaurant waiters. For others, it’s a chance to shine. If you fall into the second category (or just like seeing amateurs sweat), check out these open mic nights scattered across NoVA:
Cafés
Café Montmartre
This quaint French café serves traditional cuisines like quiches and calamari but has contemporary influences as well, such as popular Vietnamese foods. Spend a summer afternoon in the Lake Anne Plaza, then head to Totally Tuesdays Open Mic Night from 8 p.m.-closing. Musical acts are more common at this café, but comedy is always welcome. // 1625 Washington Plaza, Reston; (703) 904-8080
Epicure Café
Any form of art is appreciated at Epicure Café, whether from musical acts to local art exhibitions to storytelling. Comedy and music open mics are every Monday and Thursday evening. If you’re looking to perform, sign-up is on-site only and begins at 7 p.m. If you’re a viewer, expect 15-30 comics and PG-13 material. // 11104 Lee Highway, Fairfax; (703) 352-9193
Busboys and Poets
Poetry may be the main form of entertainment here, but seeing a budding comic take the stage isn’t uncommon. Open mic nights occur Monday through Friday at varying times depending on location. Check the website for specific details. // Multiple locations
Jirani Coffeehouse
Support charity all the while enjoying a great night of entertainment and laughs every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Admission is a donated item that will go to help families throughout the area including toiletries and feminine products. // 9425 West St. Manassas; (571) 535-2442
Caffe Amouri
Every Saturday, Caffe Amouri sponsors local artists through The Beat, an open mic program. Enjoy artisan coffee, local performances and a great sense of community all in one place. Programming starts at 7 p.m. // 107 Church St. NE, Vienna; (703) 938-1623
Restaurants & Bars
King’s Tavern and Wine Bar
Dancy, upbeat and great for singles, King’s Tavern and Wine Bar opens the mic for live music and comedy every Friday at 9 p.m. // 19 S. King St. SW, Leesburg; (703) 777-7747
Brittany’s
Every Monday is open mic night at 8:00 p.m., along with other daily events such as Thursday karaoke at 9:00 p.m. and Texas Holdem Poker at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Saturdays. // 12449 Dillingham Square, Woodbridge; (703) 730-0728
Falls Church Distiller’s
At Virginia’s only full bar and restaurant located within a distillery, take the stage every Sunday from 7-10 p.m. for their weekly open mic night. Local comedians serve as guest emcees so there are plenty of chances to laugh. // 442 S Washington St., Ste A, Falls Church; 703-858-9186
Philadelphia Tavern
Bring instruments, bring jokes and most importantly, bring an appetite to enjoy an open mic night on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 7:30-10 p.m at a classic Philadelphia-style bar. // 9413 Main St., Manassas; 703-393-1775
JV’s Restaurant
This Falls Church gem has been operated by the same family since 1947. On top of a wide selection of live music, comedians and local performers, come out on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. for an open mic night with special guest emcees. // 6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church; 703-241-9504
Sully’s Pour House
Located in the heart of downtown Herndon, spend time with great company at open mic nights every Tuesday at 8 p.m. Feeling antsy? Get there early for happy hour from 3-8 p.m. // 754 Elden St. #102, Herndon; 703-464-0522
Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
All range of musicians and performers are welcome to open mic nights every Wednesday from 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Acoustic artists play first, followed by bands, with an open jam session finishing off the evening. // 697 Spring St., Herndon; 703-435-5467
The Black Squirrel
With food specials, surprise featured artists and no cover charge, there’s no excuse to not show up for open mic nights every Tuesday from 8-11 p.m. // 2670 Avenir Place, Fairfax; 703-876-0500
Mariachis Tequileria & Restaurant
Every Tuesday from 8-11 p.m. is the Taco Jam, a celebration of local talent with taco and drink specials. Grab your fellow music lovers and listen to new tunes with great food and even better company. // 9428 Battle St., Manassas; 703-369-6022
Rhodeside Grill
Head down the “Rhode” to enjoy open mic nights every Wednesday at 8 p.m. While enjoying the performance, look for vintage pictures of the NoVA region around the restaurant. // 1836 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-243-0145
Hard Times Cafe
At Hard Times very first location in the region, come hear local talent that spans from music to comedy and even poetry at open mic nights on Tuesdays from 9-11 p.m. No prior experience necessary; in fact, it’s welcomed. // 1401 King St., Alexandria; 703-837-0050
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