Tag Archives: Kid Friendly Events in DC

July 1, 2026 · 3:12 pm

Independence Day Celebrations Around the DC Area

The 4th of July is always a big holiday in the nation’s capital, and on this 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it’s even bigger. This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks over the city and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on and around July 4th. Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!

A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 3, 8pm; gates open at 5pm
Admission: Free
The annual Independence Day concert at the Capitol airs live on PBS, but you can see the musical pageantry in person. Alfonso Rabiro will once again be hosting this year’s show, which will include performances by Patti LaBelle, Chicago, Kool and the Gang, the National Symphony Orchestra, the U.S. Army Band, the Joint Armed Forces Chorus, and many more exciting acts. (KFDC Tip: Enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on Thursday, July 2 – same time and place!)

Celebrate with Soccer!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: July 3 8pm
Admission: Tickets start at $28
THe Washington Spirit are celebrating Independence Day weekend with “In Spirit of Service Night” at their game against the Houston Dash. For every ticket purchased, a ticket will be donated to a veteran for this match through Vet Tix. Join for a night dedicated to honoring service, community, and those who sacrifice so much for our country.

Fourth of July at the Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 8:30am – 10pm
Admission: Free
Catch the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the National Archives. It starts at 10am, but family fun on Constitution Ave begins at 8:30am with live music, face painting, balloon art, airbruch tattoos Uncle Sam on stilts, arts & crafts and appearances by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Ben Franklin. That will go on until 12pm, ut you can go into the Archives and see the Declaration of Independence and more exhibits until 10pm as they museum wil have extended hours through the weekend.

4th of July Programming
Where: National Children’s Museum | Dopwntown DC
When: July 1-4
Admission: $18.95
With the holiday and a heatwave, the National Children’s Museum is offering special 4th of July programming for kids. Through July 4, they’re celebrating our country’s 250th anniversary through the lens of the Museum’s own history, with hands-on programs inspired by moments and exhibits from the institution’s past. American thinkers, scientists, and changemakers will also be highlighted at each program. See a schedule and deatails of what’s happening each day here. And see more about the museum in this KFDC post.

An American Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA
When: July 4, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $28/adult, $15/age 6-11, free/5 & under
The home of George Washington will celebrate America’s 250th with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. There will also be historic demonstrations, family activities, and a moving naturalization ceremony. See the full schedule of events here and read more about Mount Vernon here.

America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 4, 11:05am (and July 3 & 5)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. The July 4th game against the Pirates is part of the Patriotic Series, when the Nats wear their red, white, and blue. And, FYI, the evening of July 3, and there will be post-game Freedom Fireworks, plus more promos for the rest of the games.

July Family Day: Declaration of Independence
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 10:30am – 3:30pm
Admission: Free with timed tickets
Celebrate America’s birthday with activities highlighting the Declaration of Independence and its legacy. View collections displays featuring the Library’s holdings related to the document and its history. Explore the Constitution with Library staff, and write thank you letters to veterans with the National Veterans Memorial Museum. At 11am and 12 pm, enjoy performances by members of the St. Paul VI Catholic High School Fife and Drum Corps.

National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 3rd-12th Streets | DC
When: July 4, 10:30am
Admission: Free
Many national holidays get a parade in DC, and July 4th is no exception. Scores of spectators always line the Constitution Avenue sidewalks to watch the procession celebrating Independence Day as it make its way from 3rd to 12th Street. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, equestrian groups, drill teams, and military units will be among the pageantry. Stake out your spot along the route early, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers every year.

We Sing America
Where: Franklin Park: Downtown DC
When: July 4, 1-2:30pm
Admission: Free
Planet Word presents this event that features DC’s own Nolan Williams Jr., who will lead the crowd in a celebration of the songs and voices that have shaped America, from beloved folk songs to American classics to Civil Rights anthems. BYO blanket and a picnic… andmaybe even a portable fan. And plan to stop in Planet Word, both to cool off and see the fantastic exhibits!

Celebrate America 250
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hil, MD
When: July 3-5
Admission: Free
Though there won”t be a fireworks show at National Harbor over the Fourth of July weekend, there will a lot of other festivities if you want to get out of the DC hoopla for the 4th. Live music, patriotic entertainment, family-friendly activities, outdoor movies, and Americana-inspired experiences designed for all ages will be part of the fun, not to mention the Capiutal Wheel, carousel, paddling ops, and more!

Fourth at the Wharf
Where: The District Wharf | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 5-11:30pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate America 250 with free live country music on the Fourth of July on multiple outdoor stages. Don’t miss out on the music, games, specialty drinks, and spectacular views of the National Park Service fireworks launched from the National Mall. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.

Neighborhood Parades & Celebrations
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: Most on July 4, times vary
Admission: Free
Keep it close to home at a community celebration. You likely are aware of July 4th events taking place in your neighborhood or nearby, but if you’re still looking for a hyperlocal fête, here are some that are known to be good ones: Capitol Hill (we can vouch it’s great from many years attending), Palisades, Takoma Park, Great Falls.

Great Meadow Presents The Big Boom
Where: Great Meadow | The Plains, VA
When: July 4, 5pm
Admission: $60+/car
Great Meadow, a 74-acre park and home of the Virginia Gold Cup races, is bringing back its famous fireworks show and activities for the 36th year. Join for family games like cornhole toss, sack races, face painting, tug-of war, and more. Bring a picnic or purchase food on site — there will be food trucks and a beer garden. A spectacular fireworks display gets underway at dusk. BYO blankets and chairs for comfortable viewing (no umbrellas or tents, unless in reserved tailgate spaces.)

Great American State Fair
Where: National Mall, DC
When: Through July 10
Admission: Free
I will be completely honest: I found the fair to be”meh” and don’t really recommend it. BUT, it’s taking up a huge portion of the Mall, and I know some people will want to come in for the fireworks and possibly check this out for themselves. There is a Ferris Wheel, a small “rodeo” area where there’s entertainment like lumberjack shows, a stage with performers (that haven’t had much of audience), and small showrooms for every state that make it feel more like a trade show than a fair. There’s also an “America Innovates” pavilion with displays by several companies including SpaceX, Northrop Grummon, Meta, and TikTok.

Fireworks on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 11pm
Admission: Free
The grand finale of the day: At 11pm (yes, it’s late this year), the sky above the National Mall will explode with color when the amazing iconic fireworks display begins. Fireworks will be launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool area, but you can find a place on or off the Mall to watch them (see tips below for a list of places to view them).

More July 4th Tips!
* A few recs to make the day more festive: Hand fans, stellar head wear, fun cocktail picks, popsicles!
* Find off-the-Mall suggestions for viewing fireworks around the area.
* If you’re headed into DC, take public transportation! Cannot stress enough what a bad idea it would be to drive.
* For more activities during the long weekend see the KFDC Summer Guide.

Independence Day Celebrations Around DC

Capitol Hill’s festive parade on Barracks Row

What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in our nation’s capital? This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks over the city and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on and around July 4th. Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!

Fourth of July at the Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 8am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Catch the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the National Archives. It starts at 10am, but the shopping tent opens at 8am and performances begin at 9am. Get there early to get a good seat and enjoy entertainment by the Crossroads Brass Band and Quantico Marine Band. After that, celebrate like it’s 1776! There will be lots of fun family activities,…meet historic figures, do some arts & crafts, and sign the Declaration of Independence yourself!

An American Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA
When: July 4, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $28/adult, $15/age 6-11, free/5 & under
The home of George Washington salutes the first commander-in-chief with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, a performance by the National concert band and more live entertainment, and a chance to meet General Washington himself. See the full schedule of events here and read more about Mount Vernon here.

America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 4, 11:05am (and July 3)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. The July 4th game against the Red Sox is part of the Patriotic Series, when the Nats wear their red, white, and blue. And, FYI, the evening of July 3, and there will be post-game Freedom Fireworks, plus more promos for the rest of the games.

Root for the Baysox (& Fireworks)
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: July 4, 6:35pm
Admission: Starts at $10
For baseball on a smaller scale, the Bowie Baysox are hosting an Independence Day Celebration at their July 4th game against the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Enjoy the action on the field and fire works afterwards.

National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th-17th Streets | DC
When: July 4, 11:45am
Admission: Free
Many national holidays get a parade in DC, and July 4th is no exception. Scores of spectators always line the Constitution Avenue sidewalks to watch the procession celebrating Independence Day as it make its way from 7th to 17th Street. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, equestrian groups, drill teams, and military units will be among the pageantry. Stake out your spot along the route early, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers every year.

4th of July in the District
Where: 13th & Pennsylvania Ave. NW | Downtown DC
When: July 4, 5-10:30pm
Admission: Free
Join Mayor Muriel Bowser for the third annual 4th of July in the District Concert featuring performances by the United States Air Force Band plus more live actas and DJs. There will also be family friendly activities, food trucks, and more. The concert is free and seating is first come, first serve.

A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 8pm; gates open at 3pm
Admission: Free
The annual Independence Day concert at the Capitol airs live on PBS, but you can see the musical pageantry in person. Alfonso Rabiro will once again be hosting this year’s show, which will include performances by Alfonso Ribiero, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, Trombone Shorty, Lauren Daigle, Yolanda Adams, the National Symphony Orchestra, the U.S. Army Band, the Joint Armed Forces Chorus, and many more exciting acts. (KFDC Tip: Enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on July 3 – same time and place!)

Fireworks on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 9pm
Admission: Free
The grand finale of the day: Shortly after 9pm, the sky above the National Mall will explode with color when the amazing iconic fireworks display begins. Fireworks will be launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool area, but you can find a place on or off the Mall to watch them (see tips below for a list of places to view them).

Fourth at the Wharf
Where: The District Wharf | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 5-10pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy the Fourth of July at The Wharf with a free celebration. Enjoy country music on multiple stages from 5pm-9pm, games and the Cantina bar on Transit Pier, and spectacular views of the National Park Service fireworks launched from the National Mall. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.

Beyonce!
Where: Northwest Stadium | Landover, MD
When: July 4
Admission: Varies – look for deal
Queen B is going to be in DC on July 4th! The Cowboy Carter tour is making a stop at Northwest Stadium in Landover. Check resale tickets here, some still surprisingly reasonable (compared to The Eras Tour, anyway). She’s also performing on July 7 — look for tickets for that show here.

4th of July Picnic
Where: Greenbelt Baptist Church | Greenbelt, MD
When: July 4, 4-7pm
Admission: Free
All are invited to join the Greenbelt Baptist Church for their annual 4th of July celebration. There will be food, games, music face painting, moon bouncing, and more. Stop by on the way to Greenbelt Lake where there will be fireworks in the evening.

Great Meadow Presents The Big Boom
Where: Great Meadow | The Plains, VA
When: July 4, 5pm
Admission: $50/car
Great Meadow, a 74-acre park and home of the Virginia Gold Cup races, is bringing back its famous fireworks show and activities for the 36th year. Join for family games like cornhole toss, sack races, face painting, tug-of war, and more. Bring a picnic or purchase food on site — there will be food trucks and a beer garden. A spectacular fireworks display gets underway at dusk. BYO blankets and chairs for comfortable viewing (no umbrellas or tents, unless in reserved tailgate spaces.)

More July 4th Tips!
* A few recs to make the day more festive: Hand fans, stellar head wear, fun cocktail picks, popsicles!
* Find off-the-Mall suggestions for viewing the fireworks.
* If you’re headed into DC, take public transportation! Cannot stress enough what a bad idea it would be to drive.
* For more activities during the long weekend following the 4th, see the KFDC Summer Guide.

Spring Things to Get Excited About Around DC (2025)

Spring is always a much anticipated time of year. The emergence from cold weather, the return of color to the landscape, and the end of bulky clothes and extra layers are some of the reasons why. It’s also when many of DC’s best events and activities occur or restart for the warm months. From big blooms and their celebrations to new exhibits to live entertainment to local sports to warm weather recreation, there are so many things to get excited about around DC during the season. Here’s a round-up of them to help you plan for it all. Happy Spring!

🌷🌷🌷

Signature scene of cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin

Cherry Blossom Time
Where: Around the DC Area
When: March 20 – April 13
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only is DC at its prettiest during this time of year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival, running March 20 – April 13, presents all kinds of fun and enriching activities over a few weeks every spring. Signature events include the Blossom Kite Festival, National Cherry Blossom Parade, Sakura Matsuri, Bloomaroo, and Petalpalooza, and there are many more blossom inspired happenings around the area. See this round-up of the best ones for families. And, of course, the cherry blossom peak is an iconic DC attraction. If you’re planning to see them, I very strongly recommended reading these tips for viewing them. (While they were originally geared toward families with young children, most of the tips are helpful for anyone!)

Wisteria and more blooms at Dumbarton Oaks Garden

Bloom Town
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Varies by locale
Admission: Varies by locale
We all know about the cherry blossoms that brighten up the land and cityscape during the season. But there are even more big blooms to enjoy around the DC area, and they’re literally coming up soon. Magnolias, wisteria, bluebells, azaleas, tulips, and roses are what you can stop, smell, see, and relish in the loveliness of during spring. This post has details on where and when to enjoy them at their best.

Cheer on the black and red!

Vamos United!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Throughout spring (and summer)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
So, the MLS season actually kicked off during winter in February, but spring is a great time to see some soccer action as the weather warms up. The DC United matches are always fun to experience, and tickets are available for just about all of them (but check for deals here). While there are good concessions at the stadium, you can also make a longer outing of it, and grab a bite to eat before or after matches. There are a lot good dining options in the Capitol Riverfront area just a short walk away.

Get in the spirit of women’s soccer

We’ve Got Spirit, Yes We Do!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Starts March 22
Admission: Tickets start at $25
Even more exciting soccer is starting as the Washington Spirit, our local women’s pro soccer team, also kicks off their season in early spring. Audi Field is also their home pitch, so all matches will take place right in the city. They are so fun to watch — the team made it to the finals last season and are sure to be strong again. You’ll get to see some amazing play and support women in sports!

Traversing the aerial fort at Sandy Spring

Adventure in the Trees
Where: Around the DC area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by place
Many of the local climbing and ropes courses open for the season this time of year. You can see a round-up of them here — and while it mentions fall climbing, they are all open in spring (and summer), too! The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is a KFDC fave, offering a thrilling aerial forest adventure. If you want to do something special, active, challenging, and super fun, I highly recommend it. See more about some of our experiences at the park here and here.

See the Caps & Ovie in action!

Ovechkin Goal Watch
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Several dates this spring
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Hockey has been happening for awhile, but it’s getting exciting this spring as Alex Ovechkin gets close to breaking the all-time goal scoring record. Washington Capitals games will be popular events as fans will want to be there when he hits 895. Tickets are available for most games, and you can check for deals here.

See Kimberly Akimbo at National Theatre this spring [Photo courtesy of National Theatre]

Show Time
Where: Theaters Around DC
When: Various dates
Admission: Varies by show
The new season brings new live entertainment to local stages, and there are some great shows coming to town. A few to check out:
* Sister Act at Ford’s Theater
* Annie at National Theatre
* Sleepova at Olney Theatre
* Charlotte’s Web at Adventure Theatre
* Kimberly Akimbo at National Theatre
* Frankenstein at Klein Theatre
* See all the spring shows here

Go back in the galleries at Glenstone

Back Inside Glenstone
Where: Glenstone Museum | Potomac, MD
When: Starting March 20
Admission: Free
Glenstone, the fantastic modern art museum that showcases works both inside and outdoors on its sprawling 300 acres, is reopening its indoor galleries after a year of renovations. And FYI: They have a Guaranteed Entry program, which admits students and one accompanying adult without having to reserve tickets. Be sure to note that they don’t allow children under 12 at all, but it’s a wonderful place to visit with tweens and teens! Read more about Glenstone in this KFDC post.

Catch a Nats game this spring

Play Ball!
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Starting March 27
Admission: Varies
MLB Opening Day is March 27, and the Nats are playing a game at home against the Phillies. If you’ve followed KFDC for awhile, then you know I recommend catching a Nats game as great way to spend a family day out. I discussed it in the very early KFDC days, include ballgames in Weekend Round-Ups whenever they play at home, have endorsed the Jr. Nationals Kids Club for years, and know it all well enough to have plenty of tips for spending less on a day at the ballpark. This is all to say, check your Natitude — and the useful promo schedule — and get ready for spring ball!

Go from Earth to Space [Photo courtesy of The Kennedy Center]

Earth to Space Festival
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: March 28 – April 20
Admission: Varies by activity
For three weeks this spring, Earth to Space: Arts Breaking the Sky will fill the Kennedy Center with musicians and astronauts, poets and researchers, visual artists and engineers, actors and environmentalists, architects and astronomers, dancers and scientists, filmmakers and space designers. This will include performances and events especially for families, like an NSO Family Concert and To the Moon & Back, and three family weekends March 29-30, April 5-6, and April 12-13.

Hike & Hangs
Where: Around the DC area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by place
Sometimes it’s just as fun to plan a hike around the après hike destination, places where you can relax and enjoy food and drinks, the kids can play, and the scenery adds to the enjoyment. And spring is the perfect time for it! There are a bunch of great combos for that detailed here. And a couple more here.

Egg-Cellent Adventures
Where: Around the DC area
When: Through April 21
Admission: Varies by place
Egg hunts, bunny visits, and more seasonal activities will be happening all around the area leading up to Easter. There are also attractions beyond bunnies and candy-filled eggs for your whole gang. This post has a round-up of all the Easter fun happening around the area over the coming weeks.

There’s no place like a fairy & gnome home

Fairies in the Garden
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: April 4 – September 1
Admission: $5 suggested donation
The annual magicalicious exhibit of fairy and gnome houses at Annmarie begins in spring. As if the sculpture garden in Calvert County wasn’t already wonderful, this annual display adds extra delight to a visit there with a collection of handmade fairy and gnome homes scattered throughout the grounds. It’s fantastic to see anytime, but the annual festival to celebrate them takes place April 27 this year. This is a place kids of all ages — and even the kid in us adults — will love. Read more about Annmarie Sculpture Garden in this KFDC post and this one.

Take an artsy stroll around Adam’s Morgan

AdMo Art Walk
Where: Around Adams Morgan, DC
When: April 4-30
Admission: Free
Think of Adams Morgan as your own personal art gallery, thanks to this free way to experience art brought to you by the Adams Morgan Partnership BID, the DC Arts Center, local artists, and neighborhood businesses! Walk the streets of Adams Morgan and admire an impressive selection of artworks displayed in various storefronts in a self-guided tour or join the DC Arts Center for a guided tour — they’ll be offered on select weekends in April.

The Jacqueline Kennedy Garden at the White House

White House Spring Garden Tours
Where: White House Grounds | Downtown DC
When: April 5-6
Admission: Free with tickets
Here’s a chance to see the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Rose Garden, Kitchen Garden, and South Lawn at the White House. The annual Spring Garden and Grounds Tours are a tradition that dates back to 1972 when Pat Nixon first opened the gardens to the public. It’s a very“DC” activity and a lovely way to enjoy the emerging spring color — and gaining admission to the event is as easy as picking up tickets day-of. They will be distributed at a National Park Service tent located near the White House Visitor Center (1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW) each day starting at 8:30am. (That means you could be getting entry times for later in the day, so plan accordingly as best you can.) See more details and info on how to get tickets.

All aboard for a mini trian ride!

Go for a Train or Carousel Spin
Where: Cabin John & Wheaton Regional Parks, MD
When: Starting April 5
Admission: $4
All aboard! Montgomery Park’s Cabin John Train and Wheaton Train and Carousel are opening for the season. Go for a spin around the parks on replicas of the 1863 C.P. Huntington, a 4-2-4T steam locomotive. Or enjoy a whirl on a brand new carousel at Wheaton! Read more about Cabin John Regional Park in Bethesda here and Wheaton Regional Park here.

Butterflies will be back at Brookside

The Butterfly Experience
Where: Brookside Gardens | Wheaton, MD
When: April 10 – September 21
Admission: $14/age 13+, $9/age 3-13, free/2 & under
Butterflies are coming back to Brookside Gardens! Formerly called Wings of Fancy, the exhibbition will be returning to the park’s conservatory starting this spring. Numerous species of live butterflies and caterpillars from North America, Costa Rica, Africa, and Asia will not just be on display, but flitting about the space filled with plants and flowers — and it’s such a delight! Get a glimpse at what to expect in this KFDC post and this one about a couple of our past visits there. And see more about the wonderful Brookside Gardens here.

See a printing press demo at the Folger

Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebration
Where: Folger Shakespeare Library | Capitol Hill, DC
When: April 19, 11am
Admission: Free
‘Tis Shakespeare’s 461st birthday, and the Folger Shakespeare Library is hosting its signature Open House to celebrate, back for the first time after several years. In true Renaissance fashion, there will be song and dance, Elizabethan crafts, sword fighting demos, printing press demos, a chance to write sonnets, and a giant birthday cake. The celebration will begin when the Folger opens its doors at 11am. Activities on the front lawn will run from 1-3pm.

See some sports action at UMD or another local college

College Sports
Where: Universities around the DC area
When: Throughout spring
Admission: Varies by event
All of the March Madness games are taking place elsewhere, but there are plenty of other college sports to watch this season, and there are some really good local teams. Lacrosse, softball, tennis, and gymnastics are some where you can spectate. Check schedules for nearby schools:
* University of Maryland (Go, Terps!)
* Georgetown University
* George Washington University
* American University
* Howard University
* Catholic University
* George Mason University

Bonjour, Georgetown!

Georgetown French Market
Where: Book Hill Neighborhood | Georgetown, DC
When: April 25-27
Admission: Free
The Georgetown French Market returns to the Book Hill neighborhood bringing the signature European open air market back for its 22nd year. More than 40 Georgetown boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, galleries, and more will be featured. But it’s not all about the shopping! Strolling mimes, hands-on activities, live music, and French cuisine from Georgetown cafes and restaurants offer something for all ages to enjoy. Visit the website to see the schedule of events and list of participating shops.

Spring is strawberry season…go PYO!

Strawberry Season
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Starting late April
Admission: Varies by place
The pick-your-own season around the area always begins in spring with strawberries. A few area farms open their strawberry fields to the public around late April/early May, so you can get out there and gather your own. More places start welcoming guests later in May, and a few more crops will become available towards the end of spring. This KFDC round-up has details on where you can enjoy a PYO outing.

Flowers & fun at the National Cathedral

Flower Mart
Where: National Cathedral | Northwest DC
When: May 2-3
Admission: Free
This festival ran for 80 years until its two-year hiatus due to Covid. But it’s back on track — and a fun, fab way to spend a spring day! Plant sales, floral and horticultural displays, and boutique booths are great to browse and shop. There’s also music and entertainment, games and carnival rides, tasty foods, the All Hallows Guild antique carousel, and many more fun activities to delight Mart-goers of all ages. If you go with kids, be sure to visit the Beauvoir Playground, too! Read more about Flower Mart and the National Cathedral here.

Run, doggies, run! Photo courtesy of The Wharf]

Running of the Chihuahuas
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: May 3, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
The Wharf’s annual event includes live music, family fun, a Pacifico Beer Garden for adults, and of course, the highlight of the afternoon: Chihuahuas racing for fame and fun! It’s a family and pet-friendly event — all dogs are welcome, though only chihuahuas can race. If you don’t have a dog yet, keep an eye out for your forever furry friend during the Adoptable Dog Parade that takes place between the Chihuahua races. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.

Peruvian dancing at an Around the World Embassy Tour

Around the World Embassy Tour
Where: Local Embassies | Dupont Circle, DC
When: May 3
Admission: Free
The wonderful Around the World Embassy Tour is like a local passport to countries around the world as embassies from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania open their doors to the public. It’s a free showcase of art, music, traditional dress, and culinary delights from nations across the globe. (It’s also your chance to check out the interiors of those mansions along Mass Ave & International Drive that you usually just admire from the street.) Read about one of our past globetrotting-in-DC experiences and get a glimpse of what to expect. And note that the EU Open House is on May 10 and FiestaAsia on May 17.

Play and plants in the Children’s Garden

Children’s Garden Opens
Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Hill, DC
When: May – October
Admission: Free
The outdoor play area at the Botanic Garden reopens every spring, the exact date still TBA. The sweet area welcomes young visitors to explore the plant world and exercise their green thumbs. There’s a terraced climbing structure to play on, plus an area where they can dig, water, plant, and see what’s in bloom.

Head to Lincoln’s old digs for music and fun [Photo courtesy of Lincoln’s Cottage]

Bourbon & Bluegrass
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: May 17 & 18, 1-5pm
Admission: $50-70/adult, $35/age 7-20, free/6 & under
Admission: $65/adult, $35/age 7-17, free/6 & under
It’s a little more of an adult event, but kids are very welcome… Lounge on Lincoln’s lawn, sip bourbon, and enjoy live bluegrass music at the 10th Annual Bourbon & Bluegrass event! Admission includes an afternoon of live bluegrass music from local musicians, bourbon and beer tasting, an exterior preservation tour of Lincoln’s Cottage. There will also be activities such as beard grooming, square dancing, lawn games by DCFray, and more! All proceeds from the event go towards preservation efforts at President Lincoln’s Cottage to help keep the historic gem open and available to share Lincoln’s untold stories.

Go with the Flow
Where: Waterways around the DC area
When: Varies by place
Admission: Varies by place
With warmer weather comes opportunities to enjoy time on the water, and you can rent kayaks, canoes, and other vessels to paddle at a bunch of places around the area. Boating in DC runs many of the boathouses in the District and nearby. Some locations begin operating in early April, others open in May, so be sure to check the website for opening dates. A few places within the NoVA Parks system offer boat rentals even sooner. And if you don’t want to do the work of paddling (though I highly recommend it), enjoy a Water Taxi ride — there are several options for places to catch it! This KidFriendly DC post has a round-up of places to go with the flow.