We’re heading into this weekend with heavy hearts, but as one reader commented on yesterday’s post, “Many of us want more than ever to cherish the time with our kids…” This round-up is full of ideas to help with that. Happy long weekend 💛
First, some (hopefully) helpful and informative links: *What to say to kids when the news is scary. * Reflections on the Uvalde school shooting and suggestions on how to take action. (Be sure to read the comments, too.) * PBS NewsHour asked every senator what action should be taken on guns…here are the responses. * How to Prevent Gun Violence? Look Around the World. * There will be another March for Our Lives in DC and more cities around the country on Saturday, June 11.
“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
It may not be official on the calendar, but “summer” is underway! Water fun, outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun or are about to begin around DC. Start the weekend with free music at Jazz in the Garden on the National Mall. Make a splash at an outdoor public pool or a sprayground. See a family flick outdoors. Go paddling, see a special exhibit, or just plan ahead for seasonal fun. The 2022 KFDC Guide to Summer Around the DC Area has the scoop on where and when you can experience all the joys of summer that start Memorial Day weekend.
Bilingual Baseball Story Time Where: National Postal Museum | Union Station Area, DC When: Friday, 11am Admission: Free
Join National Postal Museum educators for a bilingual story time program highlighting themes from the exhibit Baseball: America’s Home Run. Sessions will be interactive and last about 45 minutes. The program is targeted for ages 3-6, but all are welcome. Of course, stay to explore the rest of the museum, which is full of interactive exhibits that appeal kids and adults. Read more about the museum in this KFDC post.
FUTURES Field Day
Where: Arts & Industries Building & National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 10pm
Admission: Free The Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building invites play enthusiasts of all skill levels, ages, and body types to get moving and find joy in play! In partnership with the NFL and NFL Players Association, FUTURES Field Day will feature fun activities to get bodies moving while exploring an inclusive, uplifting, and intentional future of sports. Enjoy interactive talks with experts, skill-building with pro athletes, a wacky obstacle course, hands-on crafts, and more. Advanced and on-site registration will be required for some activities. All activities will be located within AIB or on the National Mall between 7th and 12th St. NW.
Black Birders Week Family STEM Day
Where: National Museum of Natural History | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10:30am –
Admission: Free
Celebrate Black Birders Week at this special event, part of a series at the Smithsonian to raise awareness of birding and the birding community. Together, families will learn about birds and birding through various hands-on and collections-based activities that will encourage families to start their own birding adventures after the program. Registration is required to secure your family’s spot, and make sure to include how many people will be attending with you. (PS: There are even more events during Black Birders Week — view them here.)
Flowers of Remembrance
Where: Arlington National Cemetery | Arlington, VA
When: Saturday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
On Memorial Day Weekend, the public is welcome to pay homage to those who have sacrificed at this inaugural event at Arlington National Cemetery. Flowers will be provided or you can bring your own long-stemmed flower to place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. (Do not bring vases, wreaths, or flowers with any packaging or plastic containers.) Plan to tour the rest of the Cemetery while you’re there — read more about it in this KFDC post.
Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $12/child, $14/adult
The longest running strawberry festival in Loudoun County takes place this weekend and next, rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the jumping pillow, slides, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, and animal encounters.
Take Your Pick
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
There’s even more strawberries activity to enjoy as the fruits are are ripe and ready for harvest, and many area farms welcome guests to come PYO. Check out this post for some of the best places to go. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. Sunscreen and hat also recommended.
Take a Dip
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
With “summer” starting and hotter temps though the weekend, it’ll be a great time to go for a swim. This round-up has details on where to do that. Find beaches on the Bay (and even Atlantic), lakes and rivers, and swimming holes and creeks — all that welcome the public to take a dip.
Maker Morning RevelArte Celebration
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10-11am
Admission: Free
In Spanish, RevelArte means to reveal. Reveal your inner artist in this special celebration and bonus Maker Morning program! Explore hands-on maker stations, join zine and map making workshops, enjoy performances, check out books in the DC Public Library nook, and do some salsa dancing! Materials will be available in both English and Spanish. Meet in the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden!
Design Zone Where: National Children’s Museum | Downtown DC When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday Admission: $15.95
A new exhibit opens at the National Children’s Museum this weekend! At Design Zone, step into the shoes of video game developers, music producers, roller coaster designers, and more to discover how STEM is used everyday to solve design challenges. Throughout three interactive areas, put your creative problem solving skills to the test to see, hear, and watch STEM principles in action: Use patterns to build 3D towers, apply math to create the rhythms of your own hit song, and tweak the slopes of a roller coaster to construct the most thrilling ride! The exhibit will run through September 5, 2022 and is recommended for Dreamers ages 5-12. And for more, off-the-beaten-National Mall-path museums, see this KFDC post.
Feeling Crabby?
Where: Eastern Shore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Depends on how much you order!
Kick off summer is with one of the area’s best offerings: Blue crabs! Enjoying the seasonal treat at a waterfront crab house is a bonus. Cantler’s in Annapolis is an institution, and Mike’s Crab House in Riva is popular with delicious crabs, gorgeous scenery, and a great outdoor waiting area if tables aren’t immediately available. Kentmorr on Kent Island has a great beach scene. And you can find even more recommendations for getting crabby in the Summer Guide.
Nats vs. Rockies
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are hosting the Marlins part of the long weekend, and there are a bunch of special activities and promos to enjoy along with the baseball action on the field. Thursday is a value Day when you can save 30% on tickets, concessions, and more. Friday is a Juan “Soto Shuffle” bobblehead giveaway. Saturday is Pups in the Park, and kids can run the bases after the game on Sunday. Before you plan your ballpark outing, check out these KFDC tips on how to do a Nats game without breaking the bank.
Summer Reading Sunday Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC When: Sunday, 12:15-1:15pm Admission: Free with game admission
A neat bonus for kids at the Nats’ Sunday game… This season, the Nats have expanded their annual Summer Reading program to include four events at the ballpark, all of which are free to attend with a ticket to that day’s game — read-along with a Nationals player, plus other fun activities! This Sunday, Sean Doolittle(!) will be reading to the group, and among the featured games is Mad-Libs. Even more, each child who attends will receive up to three free books to take home. This Sunday’s event takes place in the Kennedy Room located on the Club Level down the third-base line. (PS: Other Reading Sunday events are scheduled for June 12, July 17, and August 14.
Root for the Baysox
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Landover, MD
When: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats aren’t the only baseball team in town. The Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Erie Seawolves part of the weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy, too — happy hour on Thursday, Top Gun Night on Friday, post-game fireworks on Saturday, a cat-themed Caturday on Sunday, and more. Plus, there are always fun and games especially for kids. Read more about Baysox games in this KFDC post.
Day Trippin’
Where: Around the DC area (and a bit beyond)
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
The long weekend is a great time to head a little further out and enjoy a day trip. Some ideas for where to go: *Zip up to Baltimore, where there are so many great attractions for families * See the spectacular underground world of Luray Caverns. * Enjoy hiking and history at Harpers Ferry. * Go to Calvert County for art adventures at Annmarie Sculpture Garden, a beach day at Calvert Cliffs State Park, maritime explorations at the Calvert Marine Museum, or even a pontoon boat excursion from Solomons Island.
A Museum for this Weekend
Where: National Museum of the U.S. Navy | Navy Yard, DC
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free
In honor of the holiday this weekend, visit a museum that highlights a military branch that also happens to be one of the coolest museums in DC that most people don’t even know exists. Located on the Navy base in Southeast DC, the National Museum of the U.S. Navy is a trove of fascinating artifacts, stories, and art that illustrate the history and impact of the Navy over hundreds of years. If you plan to go, be sure to read this post, which includes must-know information about visiting.
ViVa! Vienna!
Where: Historic Downtown Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: Free
Join the family and community oriented celebration of Memorial Day and the greater Vienna Community spirit. Amusement rides, food, crafts, vendors, and entertainment will be part of the all-ages fun. Even better, 100% of proceeds go to charitable, community, and humanitarian organizations.
Art, Flowers, & Flavors Festival
Where: Ticonderoga Farms | Chantilly, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $25
After a long pandemic pause, Ticonderoga Farms (which was always one of our favorites for seasonal festivals) is reopening with a festival to celebrate their new botanic garden! The Art, Flowers & Flavors Festival will feature the work of fine artists, wine and beer tasting, gourmet food, live music, and more in or one-of-a-kind, spectacular natural setting that has never been open to the public before now.
A Monster Calls
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 8pm
Tickets: $45-139
A play for kids age 10+… Patrick Ness’s piercing novel A Monster Calls is brought to the stage in a powerful new adaptation by visionary director Sally Cookson. Thirteen-year-old Conor and his mum have managed just fine since his dad moved to America. But now his mum’s very sick and she’s not getting any better. His grandmother won’t stop interfering and the kids at school won’t look him in the eye. Then, one night, at seven minutes past midnight, Conor is woken by something at his window. A monster has come walking. It’s come to tell Conor tales from when it walked before. And when it’s finished, Conor must tell his own story and face his deepest fears.
Show Way the Musical
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, 7pm | Saturday & Sunday, 1:30pm & 4pm
Tickets: $20 (get discount)
A show for kids age 7+… Soonie’s great-grandma was just seven years old when she was sold to a big plantation without her ma and pa, with only some fabric and needles to call her own. She began to stitch a Show Way, a quilt with secret meanings to show enslaved people the way to freedom. As each generation passes, the Show Way shines a light on the past and paves a road to the future, stitching together possibility and promise. Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s book of history, love, and resilience becomes a world premiere stage adaptation. This moving, lyrical account based on Woodson’s own family pays tribute to women whose strength and knowledge illuminate their daughters’ lives—from enslavement to freedom, through segregation, freedom marches, and the fight for literacy.
Main Reading Room Holiday Opening
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Monday, 10a – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
Where you can usually only look from a window above, you can visit on the rare occasion that it’s open to the public! The beautiful Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress is holding a special holiday open house. And being in the grand space really is a treat. There’s even more to explore at the LOC — read about it here. And note that visitors must reserve timed-entry passes.
National Memorial Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th to 17th Streets | Downtown DC
When: Monday, 2pm
Admission: Free
A great way to wind down the long weekend, the annual National Memorial Day Parade is returning, celebrating and honoring American veterans with a grand procession through the city. Get a curbside view of military units and vehicles, marching bands, flag teams, and hundreds of veterans as they travel up Constitution Avenue.
Tour Memorials on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
On Memorial Day Weekend, pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our country by visiting the memorials on the National Mall that honor them. A loop of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial and WWII Memorial make for a good walk. On Monday 9-10am, there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the WWII Memorial — the public is invited, but register in advance.
#OptOutside
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
It looks like a mix of weather this weekend, including some nice days, so plan on some adventures outside! The round-up of The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids is loaded with ideas for doing just that — all of them written about from firsthand experience. But if forecasted storms roll in (or you just want shelter and AC), The Great Indoors lists over 100 suggestions for outings that take place inside.
Jazz it Up
Where: NGA Sculpture Garden | National Mall, DC
When: Friday, 6–8:30pm
Admission: Free
Start the weekend with live jazz in the fresh air! The National Gallery of Art’s free, outdoor summer music series is back for the first time in a few years, kicking off this weekend with a performance by jazz violinist Nataly Merezhuk. Spread out a blanket, pack a picnic dinner or purchase food and drinks there, and enjoy the tunes amid the sculptures. Note: BYO alcohol is not permitted, but adult drinks (and food) are available from the pavilion. (And if tickets are all gone, snag them for next week’s show!)
Open Swim
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale This round-up of places to swim around the area will come in handy sooner than expected over the hot weekend. Find beaches on the Bay (and even Atlantic), lakes and rivers, and swimming holes and creeks — all that welcome the public to take a dip.
Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $12/child, $14/adult
The longest running strawberry festival in Loudoun County takes place this weekend and next, rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including live music, farm contests, wagon rides, great food, and fun games for the whole fam. As if that’s not enough to keep the everyone entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the jumping pillow, slides, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, and animal encounters. Get tickets in advance!
Artsplosion Street Party
Where: The Plaza | Downtown Silver Spring, MD
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
The Artsplosion Street Party will have all kinds of fun for the whole fam. A Drag Queen Story Hour, interactive and uplifting art, a pop up biergarten, music from a DJ and a live performance, free kids crafts, and spin bikes are just some of the festivities to enjoy!
Dragon Boat Festival
Where: Thompson Boat House | Georgetown, DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The annual DC Dragon Boat Festival is back after a few years — now in its 19th year. It’s an experience for athletes and spectators alike. The family-friendly event features the best premier and local dragon boat teams from along the east coast racing in multiple distances over the course of the day. The public is welcome to watch this unique event for free, and there are cultural activities to enjoy, too.
Bourbon & Bluegrass
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $80/adult, $35/age 7-17, free/6 & under
The rollicking fundraiser is back in person this year! Featuring an extraordinary line up of music, bourbon and beer tastings, and fun activities for the whole family, this is an event you don’t want to miss. More details coming soon! Get tickets here.
Lucketts Spring Market
Where: Clarke County Fairgrounds | Berryville, VA
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $15/adult, free/12 & under
The weekend long event features all things vintage, farmhouse, industrial, garden, architectural, textiles. If you are looking for a unique one-of-a-kind piece, this is the weekend to find the perfect treasure. Food trucks with yummy fare, live music, and fun workshops are to the festivities.
Baseball at the Postal Museum
Where: National Postal Museum | Union Station Area, DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy some baseball outside of the ballpark at the National Postal Museum! Baseball: America’s Home Run opened a few weeks ago and explores our national pastime through a unique, postal lens, including fan letters, post office baseball teams, the worlds of stamp and baseball memorabilia collecting, and more. Read more about the wonderful Postal Museum, which is great to explore with little ones, here and here.
Open Streets DC
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Ave| Southeast DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
No cars, just people. Open Streets in Your Neighborhood is kicking off with Ward 8’s Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE! The event will close 0.3 miles of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE to cars and open them to people to ride, bike, walk, socialize, and participate in exciting programming! The main stage will feature music, entertainment, and demonstrations, with one activation zone along the Open Streets route providing opportunities to join a fitness class. Other activities include Double Dutch jump rope, a traffic garden, rollerblading, bike demonstrations, a photo booth, a protected bike lane that connects the route to the Anacostia Park trail, and much more!
The Boro’s Gambit
Where: The Boro | Tysons, VA
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: Free to spectate, $30 to play
Join The Boro as they welcome chess enthusiasts of all levels and watch them face chess grandmaster Rashad Babaev in The Boro’s Gambit. Up to 50 players of all levels will go head to head against the only grandmaster in the area. The top three players will take home prizes! Aren’t ready to face the grandmaster yet? Join us as a spectator and watch all the action go down! Kids can even enjoy activities in Boro Park. Bring the whole family out for this not-to-miss event!
Art Outside: Indonesian Batik
Where: National Museum of Asian Art | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Experience the art of Indonesian batik in the museum’s Moongate Garden at this drop-in demonstration — batik is a method of resist textile dyeing that is achieved by adding alternate layers of wax and dye to a fabric to produce elaborate designs. Artists will demonstrate aspects of the process and give visitors the opportunity to try out materials and experience the process firsthand. They will also share examples of traditional Javanese batik and discuss their creative process and the range of artworks created in their studio.
ConstructionFest
Where: Cleveland Park, DC
When: Starting Saturday through June 16
Admission: Free
Cleveland Park Main Street is undergoing a major streetscape project for the next 20+ months — but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! To help counter the impact of the construction on Cleveland Park’s small businesses, CPMS is organizing ConstructionFest, a 4-week fun and wacky celebration featuring unique window displays withlocally-created artwork & illustrations, food & drink specials, Friday night music series (live music on June 3, 10, and 17), a ConstructionFest mascot scavenger hunt, and more!
Gaithersburg Book Festival
Where: Bohrer Park | Gaithersburg, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: Free
The City of Gaithersburg welcomes you to their annual literary event! Festivities will include the chance to see and meet some of the world’s best writers, from best-sellers to acclaimed up-and-comers; join in literary workshops; and a full day of fun at the Children’s Village. Bohrer Park is located at 506 S. Frederick Avenue.
2022 Teen Twelfth Night
Where: Synetic Theatre | Crystal City, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm | Sunday, 2pm
Tickets: $20-60 (get discount)
If music be the food of love, play on! The brilliant young artists of the Teen Company present Synetic Theatre’s celebrated 1920s take on Shakespeare’s whirlwind of romance and slapstick.
Show Way the Musical
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, 7pm | Saturday & Sunday, 1:30pm & 4pm
Tickets: $20 (get discount)
A show for kids… Soonie’s great-grandma was just seven years old when she was sold to a big plantation without her ma and pa, with only some fabric and needles to call her own. She began to stitch a Show Way, a quilt with secret meanings to show enslaved people the way to freedom. As each generation passes, the Show Way shines a light on the past and paves a road to the future, stitching together possibility and promise. Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s book of history, love, and resilience becomes a world premiere stage adaptation. This moving, lyrical account based on Woodson’s own family pays tribute to women whose strength and knowledge illuminate their daughters’ lives—from enslavement to freedom, through segregation, freedom marches, and the fight for literacy. Recommended for ages 7+.
Into the Woods
Where: Creative Cauldron | Falls Church, VA
When: Friday & Saturday 7:30pm | Sunday, 2pm & 7pm
Tickets: $40/adult, $25/child
Catch a performance… With an imaginative book by James Lapine that skillfully intertwines the stories and characters from Grimm fairy tales, and a luscious score by Stephen Sondheim, this Tony Award-winning musical has become a timeless masterpiece. A baker and his wife wish for a child, Cinderella wishes to go to the King’s Festival and Jack wishes to sell his cow, so into the woods they must go in search of their prize. Happily ever after eludes them, however, as they soon learn the tangled consequences of getting exactly what you wished for.
The Fantastic Tale of Rumpelstiltskin
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Friday, 10:30am | Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am & 1pm
Tickets: $15
In this production, the Puppet Co. gives you the full story of what happens after the gold has been spun and the day has been saved. This hilarious and smart comedy will be a great romp for adults and kids alike. Can you guess Rumpelstiltskin’s new name?! Recommended ages 4+, and run time approximately 50 minutes. Sunday’s show is a sensory friendly performance.
Row Your Boat Where: Fletcher’s Boathouse | Foxhall, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Rentals start at $/hour
On the water pursuits are linked at the top, but one of our favorites is paddling the Potomac from Fletcher’s Boathouse. That area of the river is particularly pretty, verdant with trees flanking the shoreline. Wildlife sightings are likely — we always see turtles, egrets, and ducks, and have spotted hawks and herons, too. And if you paddle east toward Georgetown, you’ll catch views of the Washington Monument. Read about our first Fletcher’s paddling adventure here. And find more places for recreation on the water here.
Ride On
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
There’s a quick link to bike routes above, but this is a stronger recommendation to get out for a family ride — and you’ve got your pick of good rides around the area! Take in the spring scenery, get some exercise, and have fun enjoying an activity with the fam. This post has a bunch of pedal-worthy recs, with something for riders of all levels, and this route is particularly ideal with little kids.
Vamos United!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 4pm
Admission: Tickets start at $40
DC United is home this weekend, and there’s a match against Toronto FC on Saturday afternoon. I recommend taking public transportation as parking can be difficult. Or park in the Navy Yard neighborhood and plan to walk from there (and maybe grab dinner after the match — El Bebe, All Purpose Pizza, The Salt Line, and Dacha are very convenient and my top recs for family-friendly spots to eat there).
Old Town Festival of Speed & Style
Where: King Street | Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
View dozens of rare and exotic cars up close, made famous by their speed, performance and elegance. This will be enhanced by a presentation of style, fashion and live music provided by over 40 local merchants. The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style highlights the unique offerings of the Old Town community – history, architecture, great food, fabulous people, art, style, energy. All proceeds benefit ALIVE! and Campagna Center.
Japan Spring Fair
Where: First Presbyterian Church | Arlington, VA
When: Sunday, 2-4:30pm
Admission: Free
May 5 was Children’s Day in Japan. To celebrate it ( a couple of weeks later), Study Japanese in Arlington is hosting a festival with lots of children’s activities, a flea market, “Boroichi” with Japanese and kid’s items, martial arts demos, youth performances, origami, and more! All are welcome to join, and participation is free!
Festa All’Aperto
Where: La Collina | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Sunday, 5-7pm
Admission: The cost of your meal
One of our favorite neighborhood restaurants is having a patio party to celebrate the (almost) return of summer! Bring kiddos—and the young at heart—for dinner delights on the patio. They’ll be featuring a fun film for little ones, along with all their favorites from the bambini menu — think chicken parmies, pasta & meatballs, plus complimentary ice cream sandwiches! Cocktails, carafes of vino, and new spring dishes at the ready for all the grown-ups! Reserve your table here.
Pick Your Own
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Strawberries and a few veggies are ripe and ready for harvest, and several area farms are now welcoming guests to pick their own. This post has a round-up of where to go. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. Sunscreen and hat also recommended.
Get Crabby
Where: Annapolis area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Depends on how much you order!
We just enjoyed this last weekend, so it’s on my mind to recommend now. Feasting on steamed Old Bay-spiced blue crabs is a local treat, and doing so at a waterfront crab house by the water is a bonus. Cantler’s in Annapolis is an institution, and another family fave is Mike’s Crab House in Riva with delicious crabs, gorgeous scenery, and a great outdoor waiting area if tables aren’t immediately available. After your feast, head into downtown Annapolis for ice cream at Kilwin’s and a stroll around town.
It’s time to bring back the annual guide to summer around the DC area! I’ve mentioned before that this has always been one of my favorite posts to put together for a couple of reasons: It reflects that wonderful shift from structured days to carefree time. And it’s a reminder of all the summer fun to be had around the area, some of it back this year for the first time since the pandemic (and a few things still TBA so be sure to check back for updates). Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer, so bookmark this post and start making plans. The 2022 KFDC Guide to the Best of Summer Around the DC Area has details and inspiration to help you get going. Happy Summer!
PLAY IN THE SPRAYS
Kids can run through fountains and splash around at many of them around the area. Several are within the DC, MD, & VA Departments of Parks and Recreation, but some of the best are built right into the urban landscape, making the concrete jungle a cool place to hang out during the hottest months. Dates are TBD at some, but look for updates soon!
DC DPR Spray Parks will be open for the season daily starting Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 28, through September 5, 10am – 8pm. Find locations — there are a bunch of them around the city — and see them all on a map on the DPR website.
Yards Park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood is a favorite for water play in the city with two levels featuring Dancing Fountains up top and the Canal Basin and Waterfall below, plus a great scenic location on the Anacostia River in the Navy Yard. Grassy areas for hanging out and lots of nearby eateries make it a perfect place to spend a summer day. Read more about the water features at The Yards here. [Note: The water features are currently closed due to mechanical issues.]
Canal Park in the Navy Yard is great for kids of varying ages with both a gentle, shallow fountain that is ideal for really little ones to enjoy, plus a bigger fountain with lots of sprays for more enthusiastic play where the ice rink is in the winter.
The Wharf in Southwest DC re-opened its in-ground fountain for the first time since the pandemic. Kids can run through water shooting up from jets, play in mist spraying up in the center, and ride on waterproof rocking horses within all of it, all with the beautiful waterfront area as a backdrop.
Georgetown Waterfront Park, right next to the Washington Harbour, has a fountain with arcing sprays that makes for a fun, refreshing way to cool off on a hot, summer day. The rest of the park’s pretty green space along the Potomac is a nice, relaxing place to hang out, too.
Our Special Harbor at Lee District Recreation Area in Alexandria gets raves for its Chesapeake-Bay themed sprayground complete with a spraying osprey nest, Chessie the sea serpent, misting sunflowers, and a lighthouse. Open weekends Memorial Day – June 12, then daily June 13 – August 21, then only weekends again through September 5.
Potomac Yard Park, among the many city of Alexandria parks, has an interactive in-ground fountain that kids can play in — along th a couple of playgrounds and many other recreational features. Even better, you can plan to do some shopping at he nearby Target while you’re out that way.
There’s an in-ground fountain on Capitol Hill at the C Street Plaza right across from Eastern Market. On most weekday afternoons during summer, there’s a small crowd of little ones playing in the gentle sprays.
That first jump into summer fun
OUTDOOR POOL SEASON
Nothing says summer like swimming under the sun, and there are plenty of public pools in the area where you can jump in for free or a small admission fee.
DC outdoor public pools will open on Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 28. They’ll operate on a weekend-only schedule (Saturday & Sunday) through June 26. Starting Monday, June 27, all outdoor pools will operate on individual summer schedules, six days a week. Days and hours vary from pool to pool so be sure to check schedules before you go.
For outdoor swimming outside of the city, Montgomery County outdoor public pools will open May 28 through Labor Day — the Department of Recreation website has locations and hours.
In Northern Virginia, Arlington’s Upton Hill has a whole water park for guests to enjoy, and Alexandria has several places where the public is welcome to swim — check the City of Alexandria website for hours, as they vary by pool. But note that all outdoor public pools will open June 26.
Swimply, an online service that started last year, lets you search for private pools to rent. You can find pools at residences all over and pay to use them by the hour.
Sand, swimming, and fossil hunting at the Purse Area in Charles County, MD
BEACHES
Summer and beach trips go hand-in-hand, so why not hit one with the kids? There are a bunch of places where you can get a nice dose of sand and surf that are within day trip distance from DC.
Calvert Cliffs State Park in Calvert County is known as a fossil hunting locale — as its cliffs erode, prehistoric remains of marine life are revealed — but it’s even better for beach fun, swimming, and hiking. To access the beach, you have to hike a couple of miles through woods (and there are even more trails if you’re up for it), but the walk is worth it for a dose of quintessential summer fun. Open daily sunrise – sunset, and admission is $8/vehicle.
Flag Ponds Nature Park, also in Calvert County, has a large sandy beach for playing and nice mellow waters for swimming. It’s also a great spot for fossil hunting — look for shark teeth and other prehistoric remnants along the shores while you’re there, too. Hours are 9am – 6pm on weekdays and 9am – 8pm weekends from Memorial to Labor Day (days/hours are reduced the rest of the year). Admission is $8/car. Be sure to read more about Flag Ponds for tips and get a glimpse here and here
Sandy Point State Park inAnnapolis offers striking views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge along with loads of beach fun. At nearly 800 acres, it’s a big park with lots of recreational opportunities — swimming, picnicking, fishing, crabbing, hiking, and more. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are lifeguards on duty. And snack food and beach and picnic supplies are available. Hours are 6am – sunset. From May 1 through September, admission is $5/Maryland resident, $7/non-resident on weekend, and $4/ Maryland resident, $6/non-resident on weekdays.
The Purse Area within the Nanjemoy Wildlife Management Area in Charles County, MD, is best if your main purpose is fossil hunting — it’s a great place to go for it — and you want to get in some “beach” time, too. The beach is narrow, and you’re on a river, but you still get to enjoy sand and water. Wear swimsuits, bring a picnic, and be sure to check the tide table so you can make the most of your time there. Open sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
Mayo Beach Park in Anne Arundel County is open for swimming in summer to enjoy some sand and surf. Passes to access the beach park must be reserved in advance. Be aware of other beach rules like no grills or dogs allowed. Open Memorial Day – Labor Day on Friday 4-7pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am – 7pm.
Cape Henlopen State Park is a little over two hours from DC in Lewes, DE, but definitely doable as a day trip if you leave early, especially on a weekday when there is less traffic. We’ve done this and have had a fantastic day at the beach — packed up the car with a cooler and beach gear, got on the road early, and we were on the beach by 10:30am. Enjoyed dinner outdoors and ice cream in town before heading back, arrived home at 9:15pm. Totally worth the time in the car. Open daily, 8am – sunset, and admission is $8-10/vehicle. Get a glimpse here.
Dirty Dave’s Tiki Bar on Kent Island has a great beach area., where you can reserve spots on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.. Don’t let the name fool ya, it’s family-friendly and very fun. The beach is right behind Kentmorr, the excellent crab house, so if you plan well, you can make a day of it there with some beach time and a crab feast! You can hang and enjoy fare from Dave’s. Be sure to read details — pricing, hours, rules, etc. — on the website.
They may not all be beaches, but this round-up of swim spots has a bunch more recommendations for places to take a dip around DC within day trip distance.
Make a splash at Soak City in Kings Dominion
WATERPARKS
Giant water slides, wave pools, waterfalls, sprays and splash pads…this is the stuff kids’ summer dreams are made of. There are some great water parks around the area offering many of these attractions, just about all of them opening Memorial Day weekend for limited hours, until they open daily a few weeks later. Here’s a quick list — visit the websites for more details.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a film outdoors at the Union Market Drive-in
BIG SCREEN UNDER THE STARS
Outdoor movies have become a DC summer tradition in the last few years with films al fresco in several neighborhoods. Even better, many of them are FREE! (*Before you make plans to enjoy any of the series, be sure to check schedules, as some movies may not be appropriate for children.)
Catch a flick on the big screen from the comfort of your car at the Union Market Drive-In Series, occurring monthly on Fridays throughout the summer, with several family-friendly films in the mix. This year, they are are skipping the dramas in favor of action, comedy and cult classics. Get there as early as 6pm and have a bite to eat in the Market or bring food back to your car. The film starts at 8:30pm. Admission is $20/car, free for walk-ins. Advance purchase is recommended. Runs through October.
National Harbor’s Movies on the Potomac series is back through the September 30.Every Sunday (family night) at 6pm and Thursday (date night) at 7pm, guests can see a free film on the big outdoor Plaza Screen right on the waterfront. . Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of the many eateries, and meet at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun and entertainment.
Adams Morgan Movie Nights is back with free mnovies on Tuesday evenings from May 24 – June 21 with “The Road Less Traveled” theme, showing movies that find the heroes on a quest. The program runs 8-11pm at Marie Reed Recreation Center’s soccer field (18th & California St, NW). Restaurants in the neighborhood will be offering special takeout meals that attendees can bring to the field.
Family Movies Nights take place on The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center monthly from May 27 – September 30. They are free, and programming runs from 7-10pm.
Audi Field will transform into an outdoor cinema as Movies on the Pitch shows four films on the stadium’s jumbotron screen — June 2, June 30, July 28, and August 25 — all of them family-friendly.
At the Navy Memorial Plaza (7th & Pennsylvania Ave NW) catch Movies on the Memorialon Thursday evenings June 2 – September 1. The series of Navy-themed films pay tribute to our rich maritime heritage.
Golden Triangle BID will host GLDN+ CINEMA on Thursdays in Farragut Square (17th & K, NW), June 2-23. The family-friendly films begin at sunset.
Join the Rosslyn BID this summer for the Rosslyn Cinema Series to enjoy your favorite movies on the lawn in Gateway Parkon Fridays in June!
Cinematerywill take place monthly at Congressional Cemetery on Capitol Hill, on June 3, July 1, August 5, and September 2.
The Library of Congress will host its fifth annual Summer Movies on the Lawn on Thursday evenings in July and August 4. Films will begin at sundown on the southeast lawn of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building.
Films at the Stone hosts monthly screenings (June 16, July 21, & August 250 at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.
Georgetown Sunset Cinema is back with movies on Tuesdays from August 2 – September 6 starting at 8:30-8:45 in the lovely Georgetown Waterfront Park, with the panoramic backdrop of the sunset, Potomac River, Kennedy Center, and Key Bridge. Free and open to all.
Friday Night Concerts return to the Yards Park boardwalk this summer
SUMMER CONCERTS
Free music in the fresh air has become a staple of the season, and there are opportunities to enjoy just about every genre regularly at outdoor venues all around the DC-Metro.
Jazz in the Garden, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden’s free concert series, is back. Experience live music amid art at every Friday from 6–8:30pm starting May 20, and there will be weekly shows through July22. Spread out a blanket, pack a picnic dinner or purchase food and drinks there, and enjoy the sounds of a variety of jazz artists. Note: Adult drinks are available from the pavilion; BYO alcohol is not permitted.
At theBear Square Summer Concert Seriesat The Station at Riverdale, dance the night away and welcome the warmer season every Friday from 5-7pm from May 27 – June 24.
The U.S. Navy Band returns for its summer Concert on the Avenue Series at the Navy Memorialon Tuesdays, May 31 – August 16 at 7:30pm. All performances are free and open to the public.
Wednesday at The Wharf will feature free weekly concerts on Transit Pier every Wednesday evening at 7pm. R&B, Americana, Motown, Jazz, Reggae, Go-go, Country, and your favorite pop covers will be among the sounds you can hear June 1 – August 31.
Friday Night Concerts at Yards Park will be back for its 12th season from June 10 – July 29! The series will feature performances by popular local artists with cold beverages and food available for purchase, lots of grassy space for hanging out, and the water features for kids to play in nearby to make it a bigger family evening out.
NaLa Fridays at the Park will bring live music and food trucks to Long Bridge Park at National Landing (formerly Crystal City, VA). Catch a concert every Friday from June 10 – October 5, 5-8pm.
On weekends, head to Tysons Corner Center for Live at the Plaza, where you can enjoy music Fridays & Saturdays, 6-8pm, and Sundays, 5-7pm, featuring acoustic music spanning a variety of genres or a DJ playing popular hits.
Enjoy music Live from the Lawn at Strathmore on Wednesday evenings from July 13 – August 24. (They also have Cool Concerts for Kids on select Thursdays!)
Glen Echo Park’s 2022 Summer Concerts Series presents free live music in the historic Bumper Car Pavilion, featuring a variety of local bands and musical genres, from country to reggae, swing to Latin jazz, African to Cajun and blues. Dates/times TBA!
Enjoy music in Northern Virginia parks! The Fairfax County Park Authority presents their Summer Entertainment Series, a summer-long calendar of family-friendly shows, and concerts in local parks. Bring a picnic dinner, blankets, and lawn chairs to enjoy the best local and regional entertainers. There are many shows throughout the summer, so view the schedule here.
The Kennedy’s Center’s Millennium Stage continues to present free live performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 6pm, occasionally outside on The REACH plaza. While you’re there, plan for time to hang out at Victura Park and food and drinks, too.
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival will be back in person on the National Mall!
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Several stand-out events are anticipated around the area this time of year, celebrating everything from music to art & culture to neighborhoods to food. There are also a few smaller happenings to plan for in advance.
Awesome Con, the Mid-Atlantic’s premier pop culture convention, takes place June 3-5 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, celebrating all aspects of geekdom and pop culture with a wide assortment of engaging events, comic books, collectibles, toys, games, original art, cosplay and more.
The 40th Annual Washington Folk Festival at Glen Echo Park June 4-5 showcases the diversity of traditional music in Washington. All of the artists hail from the DC area, but cultures from around the nation, as well as the world, will be represented through music, dance, crafts, and stories. The free festival that is renowned in the folk community and the public is welcome to enjoy it.
Celebrate Capital Pride during the month of June, especially June 11-12 at the annual parade and festival that culminates a week of gay pride events around the city. The Saturday parade is always a spectacular extravaganza of ornate floats, street performers, music and dancing, glitter and beads, and plenty of reveling. Sunday’s family-friendly festival, on Pennsylvania Avenue from 3rd to 7th Streets NW, features several stages of live entertainment, hundreds of exhibitors, and activities for all ages. It’s all a fun and fabulous opportunity to show support for the LGBTAQ community and join the celebration.
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival will be back in person this year (hurrah!) June 22-27 and June 30 – July 4. Every summer (well, except for the past two), the National Mall becomes stomping grounds of folks from around the globe to celebrate living cultural heritage and community traditions at the annual event. Celebrating the United Arab Emirates and Earth Optimism this year, get ready for all kinds exhibits, demonstrations, live performances, talks, food, markets, and much more!
Attend one of the biggest summer barbeques around June 25-26 as the National Capital Barbeque Battle returns to pit some of the nation’s best barbequers against each other as they compete for big prizes. The reward for attendees: Samples from all the entrants (plus, more food), live music, cooking demos, kids’ fun, and more.
Independence Day in DC is a pretty big deal, the city being the nation’s capital and all, so the annual July 4th celebrations are pretty big. It starts with the National Independence Day Paradedown Constitution Avenue — back for the first time in two years! Then, this year more festivities will take place at the Salute to America event by the Lincoln Memorial, the A Capitol Fourth concert at the U.S. Capitol, and fireworks at West Potomac Park.
The lotus and water lilies in full bloom at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are such a ravishing sight it calls for a celebration. Along with the spectacular display of flowers, the annual Lotus & Water Lily Festival features traditional Asian and African dancing and drumming, gardening workshops, park tours, arts & crafts, and other family-friendly pursuits. This year the festival will take place over several weekends in July to better manage a return to in-person (follow previous link for activities on each date). View scenes from a previous bloom here.
It might run into fall, but it starts August 27, so the Maryland Renaissance Festival counts among the summer fun. Plus, if you’ve been reading KFDC while then you know it’s one of my very, very favorite annual events. (More confirmation on that here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.) I take a lot of pride in the number of people I have turned into Ren Fest believers. So, go! I promise, it is the absolute best.
Make a wish at the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden
SEASONAL EXHIBITS
Extraordinary installations, lovely annual exhibits, and kids’ programs during the school break are some of the special experiences at our museums and galleries to take take advantage of over the summer.
While it’s not exclusively a summer exhibit, One with Eternity: Yayoi Kusama in the Hirshhorn Collection is a good one to catch during the season as kids are out of school, so there are more opportunities to take them. Two infinity rooms, the yellow and black polka dot Pumpkin, and more artwork and elements about Kusama’s life are interesting, beautiful, and kinda trippy to experience.
In the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree for Washington, DC, has returned once again. Through the summer, the public is welcome to write wishes on small cards and tie them to the tree’s branches. They’re collected regularly, then sent to Ono’s “Imagine Peace Tower” in Reykjavik, Iceland. Get a glimpse of past one here.
National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party started with indoor mini-golf, after that it was a giant maze, then came the super awesome Beach, followed by Icebergs, then Hive buzzed in, a couple of years ago we played in the Fun House, and in 2019 we hung out on the LAWN. This year, Shakespeare joins the mix at The Playhouse. Presented in partnership with the Folger Shakespeare Library, it will feature an Elizabethan-inspired festival stage in the cool comfort of the museum’s Great Hall. From July 1 – September 5, guests will be able to enjoy Shakespearean activities like stage combat demos and hands-on fun during the day, and in the evenings, there will be performances of the enchanting A Midsummer Night’s Dream. (PS: If you think Shakespeare and kids don’t mix, think again! Read about some of our experiences with it here and here.)
Annmarie Sculpture Garden is enchanting any time of year, but it’s especially so in the summer when the fairy and gnome houses are on display. The adorable collection of little whimsical abodes for spritely creatures are just fantastic to view and find throughout the grounds. Created by all ages, individuals and groups, each one has a different theme, but together they are a brilliant showcase of imagination and craftiness. Read more about it and view scenes from a past exhibit here and here.
ARTECHOUSE, the destination in southwest known for fusing art and technology, invites you to “walk alongside African kings and queens as you explore timeless questions of identity, power, and belonging” at Aṣẹ: Afro Frequencies. Experience it June 11 – September 6. Admission is $16-20/adult, $8-10/12 & under.
Immersive cinematic exhibition at the National Geographic Museum’sBeyond King Tut, which takes visitors on a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. The exhibition celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. It runs June 17, 2022 – February 6, 2023. Tickets are $20/adult, $12/age 2-12, $16/student, military, senior, & educator.
During the warm months, little ones can flex their green thumbs in the outdoor Children’s Garden at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Renovated a few years long ago, the adorable outdoor area features dirt to dig in, plants to tend to, and a cute play structure to romp in. The rest of the USBG is great to explore, too!
Entertainment especially for kids at Wolf Trap’s Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
Special Entertainment
From super cheap movies in local theaters to stay cool on hot days to live theatre at fun places, there are some great ways to keep kiddos entertained all season long.
The Regal Summer Movie Express presents flicks for kids on many Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10am from May 24 – September 7. Admission is just $2! Be sure to check the website for the film schedule and theater locations, as it doesn’t run at all theaters every week.
From late June through early August, Wolf Trap presents the fantastic Children’s Theater-in-the-Woods, over 70 family-friendly performances at 10am Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All of the productions are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade, though I think kids even younger can enjoy them, too (mine did!). Read a KFDC review of the series from a past summer (it’s an old one, but still relevant!)
Starting June 18, Arts in the Parks, a free children’s entertainment series from Fairfax County Park Authority on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10am. Catch shows at Burke Lake Park, Frying Pan Farm Park, EC Lawrence Amphitheater, Mason District, and Waterfield Park.
Tysons Corner Center will get little ones grooving on The Plaza at the Kids Summer Concert Series on the second Wednesday of the month. These take place mid-mornings onJune 8, July 13, Aug 10, and Sept 14.
The Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back and offering fun $1 films for kids every Wednesday from June 15 – August 3. Check the schedule to see what’s playing at a theater near you!
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (now in NoMa as well as Loudoun and Woodbridge!) welcomes families to Kids Camp, a movie series that is inexpensive ($5) and benefits local charities, to boot.
Shakespeare Theater Company is bringing back the brilliant Potted Potter – The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff, that condenses all seven Harry Potter books into one hilarious and clever show. It runs June 29 – July 17 at Sidney Harman Hall. Tickets are $49.75-99.75. Read a KFDC review of the show!
UniverSoul Circus, the world-class, live entertainment attraction is coming back to National Harbor June 30 – July 24. The production celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of global cultures and ethnicities, blending circus arts, theater, and music — a fresh, cool, and hip approach to live family entertainment! Tickets start at $27.50.
Strathmore is hosting Cool Concerts for Kids on Thursdays July 14, July 28 August 11 at 7pm.
See a Shakespeare play in the park! The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company is bringing back its annual Shakespeare in the Ruins at the picturesque Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park in Ellicott City, MD. Much Ado About Nothing will run June 17 – July 24. Tickets are $54/adult, $27/age 19-25, and one kid is free with every adult. Bring along a picnic to enjoy as you watch the play — there are no food vendors, but you can BYO fare, beer, and wine.
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s annual Free For All will, hopefully, return this summer. The Washington tradition offers free performances of a Shakespearean classic to the public, with tickets available through an online lottery or a limited number given out day-of. Look for more info about it soon!
Give the National Harbor carousel an unlimited whirl!
MINI TRAINS, MINI GOLF, CAROUSELS, & A FERRIS WHEEL!
These extra delights bring even more fun to several parks around the area that are already great outdoor places to hang with the kids.
Watkins Regional Park opened its Antique Carousel and Miniature Train on a limited schedule in early May, but come Memorial Day weekend, they can be enjoyed for extended hours almost every day of the week. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10am – 7pm; Sundays 12–5 pm, closed Mondays except May 30 (Memorial Day), July 4 (closes at 4pm) & September (Labor Day). This along with all of the other fun features — Nature Center, Old Maryland Farm, and Wizard of Oz Playground!
Cabin John Regional Park opened its Miniature Train on weekends only back in April, and will run on weekends through September 10am – 6pm. Rides are $2.50. Plan to spend time at the wonderful Cabin John playground, too — read more about it here.
The Miniature Train and Ovid Hazen Wells Carousel at Wheaton Regional Park started taking guests for spins in early April on weekends and will be open through the summer. After Memorial Day, it’s open Thursday – Sunday, but hours vary, so be sure to check the website.. Rides are $2.50. Plan to stay and play at the super fun Wheaton playground — read more about it here.
The beautiful historic Dentzel Carousel is celebrating its 101st season at Glen Echo Park. Plan to go for a spin before or after a show at Adventure Theatre or The Puppet Co. From May through August, it’s open Wednesday – Friday 10am – 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday 11am – 5pm. Tickets are $2/ride, $5/all-day pass.
The Clemyjontri carousel in McLean, VA, will be offering rides daily starting May 31 on weekdays 9:30am – 1pm and weekends 9:30am – 6:30pm. Cost is $3/weekdays, $4/weekends & holidays. Read more about Clemyjontri here.
National Harbor offers a couple of ways to go for a spin. Kind of like a London Eye of the U.S., The Capital Wheel is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of DC. The 42-gondola ride (all closed and climate-controlled with room for 8) soars 180 feet above the Potomac River waterfront, offering vistas of the White House and Capitol, the National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and more amazing sites. Ticket prices start at $15. For an on-ground whirl, The Carouselfeatures a herd of whimsical creatures and the sparkling Potomac as a backdrop. It’s $7/ rider, and they can ride an unlimited number of times. Read about both rides and more National Harbor fun here.
Burke Lake Park’s Mini Train, Carousel, and Mini Golf are open daily from Memorial Day – Labor Day. The train 11:20am – 5:40pm, the carousel 11:25am -5:25pm, and mini golf 11am – 8pm (last play 7pm). The park is free to access for Fairfax county residents. For non-county residents, the park is free on weekdays and has a $10 entrance fee on weekends/holidays for a car or large capacity van. Carousel rides are $3-4, train rides are $4-5, mini golf is $7-9.
Play Mini Golf in the District at East Potomac Park. (Fun fact: It’s on the National Register of Historic Places listed as the oldest continually operating miniature golf course in the country!) Open Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 8pm. Admission is $6/kids and seniors, $7/adults. Read more about hanging out at East Potomac Park’s Hains Point.
Tee up at several NoVa Parks that have mini golf courses.Cameron Run, Upton Hill, Pohick Bay, and Algonkian Regional Parks all welcome guests to putt around. Cost is $5/age 12 & under, $6/13+. Check websites for hours a each park.
Ride the Chesapeake Bay-themed carousel at Lee District Family Rec Area in Alexandria. Open daily through August 29 — hours are 11am – 6pm Monday/Tuesday/Thursday, 11am – 5pm Wednesday, and 9am – 6pm Saturday/Sunday. Cost is $3 per ride on Fridays, $4 per ride weekends & holidays.
Show your Spirit for women’s soccer!
SUMMER SPORTS
Some of the season’s best action takes place in ballparks, stadiums, and arenas thanks to our local sports teams. Here’s where you can join the fan clubs.
A day at Nationals Park is all it takes to understand why baseball is America’s favorite pastime. Our family always enjoys catching a Nats game on a nice summer (or spring) day (or evening), anyway. The excitement extends well beyond the diamond with games and activities in the park, a playground for kids, the Racing Presidents, fun in the stands, and more. Before you go, check out these tips on doing a Nats game without breaking the bank. And I highly recommend the Jr. Nationals Kids Club for children 12 and under. Just $20 gets them membership, which includes Nats swag, plus a coupon book with all kinds of offers and discounts.
Whether or not you’ve got a little soccer fan in your fam, DC United matches are fun experiences for all ages, and Audi Field is a great venue for watching them. Plus, since games only last 90 minutes, they’re not too long if young spectators get antsy.
Women’s pro soccer team, Washington Spirit, will have several matches at Audi Field this season — and they are always very exciting to watch!
Can’t stand the heat? Head to the Entertainment & Sports Arena in southeast DC to see the Washington Mystics (w)hoop it up on the basketball court. Tickets start at $14.
Every summer, the Citi Open Tennis Tournament serves up exciting competition along with other fun activities for fans of all ages. See some of the sport’s top players in action and enjoy the thrills on and off the court at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center July 30 – August 7.
Swing up to Charm City to see the Baltimore Orioles play. Camden Yards is a beautiful ballpark, and you can head to the Inner Harbor before or after to make a day of it up north.
If the Nats or O’s aren’t in town, or you want to see baseball on a smaller but still fun scale, you’ve got several great options around the area. Take ’em out to the minors to see the Bowie Baysox, Potomac Nationals, or Aberdeen Ironbirds play. Summer collegiate team Bethesda Big Train is also very popular for non-majors baseball action.
The Breeze, DC’s Ultimate Frisbee pro team, plays at Catholic University’s Carlini Field. It’s fast-paced, fun to watch, and there’s a welcoming family vibe — plus, kids 8 and under get in free!
Maryland’s finest
CRAB FEASTS
Easily one of the best activities during summer in Maryland and neighboring areas (this is where I get non-DC-centric because I have to give credit where it’s due). Here are some suggestions for places to get ’em, though the “best” is always a subject for debate.
*Cantler’s is an Annapolis institution for many. *Mike’s Crab House in Riva has a great tiki area if there’s a table wait. * Enjoy great crabs and an awesome beach area at Kentmorr. *The Jetty on Kent Narrows has crabs, scenic views, and a fun beachy vibe. * In Baltimore, Bo Brooks on the Canton Waterfront is popular. * Enjoy a feast in the District at Ivy City Smokehouse. * Stay close to the city at Quarterdeck in Arlington. * Eat crabs in the ‘burbs at Bethesda Crab House. * Make it a day trip to Waterman’s in Rock Hall, MD. * Pick up your own at The Fish Market at The Wharf. Buy them already steamed or get them while they’re still alive to cook at home.
Take to the high Chesapeake seas for a pirate adventure!
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES
Some particularly cool activities and offerings are only possible this time of year. Sure, you can say that’s most of this guide, but these experiences that fall into the “other” category shouldn’t be missed.
On Thursday evenings and some Saturdays during late spring and summer, the Anacostia Watershed Society hosts their free Discovery Series, which include boat tours, paddle tours, and wetland walks at a few local parks. Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Anacostia Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and 11th Street Bridge Park are locations for these jaunts.
Public boat rides along the C&O in Georgetown recently returned. They are available throughout the day, Wednesday – Sunday at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm through October, offering one-hour guided historical tours along the first mile of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. Cost is $15/adult, $10/senior, $8/child.
For other adventures on the water, a bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and stand up paddleboards. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go and has a great riverside area to hang out and picnic when you’re off the water. You can also row from Ballpark Boathouse near Yards Park. Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis has paddling options along with lots of other outdoor recreation. This post has a whole round-up of even more places to go with the flow on local waterways.
Pick your own produce at local farms. While it starts in the spring with strawberries, it carries on through summer with even more delicious fruits — blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, plus veggies and more produce you can gather yourself. Find out where you can PYO around the DC area.
Join Anacostia Riverkeeper and Earth Conservation Corps on Friday evenings From July 9 – August 27 for Friday Night Fishing, their catch and release fishing program at the dock at Diamond Teague Park (located next to Yards Park). Rods, reels, bait, and instruction are free. No sign up is required. Dates still to come — will keep you posted!
Aaaaaar, mateys! As the weather warms up and cruising conditions become more comfortable, pirate voyagesare offered on local waters. In DC, take a Family Treasure Hunt Cruise on the Boomerang Pirate Ship. Head out to Annapolis for Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake. Or go for a jaunt with Urban Pirates in Baltimore.
Get rolling in Southeast! The Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion, the only skating pavilion within a national park will officially welcome skaters daily from 9am – 5pm starting Memorial Day through Labor Day. Even better, both admission and skate rentals are FREE! (You can still BYO skates and roll around the rest of the year.) And along with skating, Anacostia Park offers all kinds of recreation, including large fields for sports and running around, tennis, fishing, basketball, biking, running, and three playgrounds. Read more about the park in this KFDC post.
Have I left out anything really good? If you think so, let me know in the comments below!
Annapolis Up Rigging Maritime Festival
Where: City Dock, Downtown Annapolis, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free (fee for sunset sails)
Check out tall ships in Annapolis! Five ships will be moored at City Dock downtown next to Susan Campbell Park. Several of the boats will be available for free deck tours, and a couple of them, the Pride of Baltimore II and the Lynx, will be offering sunset sails ($55). If you can’t get on one of those, several other local tour boats will also be doing cruises over the weekend. Free concerts in the park will be part of the festival as well — BYO lawn chair or blanket and enjoy live music on the waterfront.
Drive-In Movie Time
Where: Union Market | NoMa, DC
When: Friday, 8:40pm
Admission: $20/car, walk-ups are free
Union Market’s annual Drive-in Movie Series begins this weekend, kicking off with Space Jam on the big outdoor screen. Watch the classic flick from the comfort of your car (or walk up and sit in the fresh air) in the UM parking lot. Get there as early to enjoy delicious foods from market vendors and fun pre-show activities for movie-lovers of every age! The lot opens at 7:30pm and the film begins at 8:40pm. Advance purchase is recommended.
The Outdoors Inside Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Area, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Going to the US Botanic Garden on a rainy day is like pulling a fast one on the weather gods — you can experience the outdoors without getting wet. Explore the different plant collections as you walk amid woodland flora, desert areas, and tropical rainforest (one of the the most stunning spaces in DC). The current Cultivate: Growing Food in a Changing World exhibit has interesting interactive elements that all ages will enjoy. Be sure to bring kiddos to the Children’s Garden, where they can play and use some gardening tools (note that this area is outside and will be inaccessible if it’s raining). And plan on a stroll through the lovely National Garden, too, if weather permits. Read more about the USBG here and here.
This Present Moment: Crafting a Better World
Where: Renwick Gallery | Downtown DC
When: Opens Friday
Admission: Free
After being closed for many months, the Renwick Gallery reopens this weekend with the debut of This Present Moment: Crafting a Better World. The exhibition, including more than 170 artworks on two floors of gallery space, highlights the role that artists play in our world to spark essential conversations, stories of resilience, and methods of activism — showing us a more relational and empathetic world. Works are from the museum’s permanent collection in a range of craft mediums from fiber and ceramics to glass and mixed media. And if past big Renwick exhibits (see here, here, and here) are any indication, this one is sure to be a must-see.
EU Open House
Where: EU Embassies | Dupont Circle, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Avoid the hefty airfare and jet lag and explore the Continent from this side of the pond. Join European Union embassies and the EU Delegation for a day of international culture. Get a rare behind-the-scenes look at the embassies, some of which are among Washington’s historic and architectural treasures. While each embassy will offer something different for people to enjoy, guests visiting the Delegation will get a look at art installations and engage with local diplomats to learn how the EU is fighting for a sustainable future and the preservation of global democracy. Children can design buttons to show their support for Ukraine and everyone can sample European cuisine from a local food truck. Get an idea of what to expect in this post about one of our experiences at an Around the World Embassy Tour.
Day Out with Thomas
Where: B&O Railroad Museum | Baltimore, MD
When: Friday – Sunday
Admission: $26-30
All aboard, little engineers! Thomas the Tank Engine is rolling into town with the Party Train Tour! Take a train ride behind him, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy a full day of activities and family fun!
More Charm City Fun, Hon!
Where: Around Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only is it nice to get a change of metro area scenery sometimes, Baltimore, our sister city just a 45-minute drive away, is full of fantastic, family-friendly things to do. This post has info about all of them, including big attractions, suggestions for places to eat, and neighborhoods to explore.
Acton Children’s Business Fair of Washington, DC Where: 3411 Connecticut Ave | Cleveland Park, DC When: Saturday, 10am – 12:30pm (rain or shine) Admission: Free
Head to the Acton Children’s Business Fair of Washington, DC, on Saturday, where children ages 6 to 14 who have created a product or service are selling to customers — like an outdoor craft market run by kids! Shop, have fun, and celebrate children’s entrepreneurial spirit! Entry is free and open to the public.
Strawberry Fields…this Weekend (Maybe)
Where: Farms around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Strawberries are ripe and ready for harvest — a few area farms are now welcoming guests to pick their own. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. And this one is obviously weather dependent, but even if rain washes the idea out, go ahead and check the list of PYO places, so y9u can plan for another time.
Happy 150, DC Fire & EMS! Where: Constitution & Pennsylvania Ave NW | Downtown DC When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm Admission: Free
The DC Fire and EMS Department is celebrating their 150th Year of Service with a parade and apparatus muster, a display of antique and current fire apparatus. The parade begins at 11am, and will proceed down Constitution Ave. NW from 7th to 14th Streets. The apparatus muster will take place Pennsylvania Ave, from 12th to 14th Streets NW.
Brownies: Outdoor Adventures Where: Tudor Place | Georgetown, DC When: Saturday, 10-11:30am Admission: $10
This session for kids will help them identify bugs, birds and other wildlife at Tudor Place while on an outdoor adventure. Practice knot-tying skills and plant seeds to take home. This program fulfills all requirements to earn the Brownie Bugs Badge and the Brownie Outdoor Adventurer badge. Individuals and troops invited to participate.
Lattes with Lambs Where: National Colonial Farm | Accokeek, MD When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm Admission: $15/adult, $5/age 10 & under
Help welcome the new additions to the Piscataway Park barnyard at the Lattes with Lambs festival! There are brand new lambs and calves on the farm that are looking forward to hanging out. The event will also feature farm-themed activities for the whole family, local food and coffee trucks, sheep-shearing demonstrations.
Arches & Trusses: The Tension Builds Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC When: Saturday, 11:30am – 12:30pm Admission: $7/member, $15/non-member
Sign up for this program, part of a weekly May series! What keeps a building standing up? Investigate how materials, invisible forces and building structures work together in the historic home of the museum and begin to understand how these forces affect all the buildings that make up our neighborhoods and communities. Admission includes access to all of the exhibits, too.
KidStory Theatre Festival Where: Highland Elementary | Wheaton, MD When: Saturday, 11am & Sunday, 2pm Admission: Free
Season 7 of InterAct Story Theatre’s Wheaton Family Theatre comes to a close this month with free plays and stories written by their favorite authors–kids! All year long, theatre artists create stories with kids, inviting them to share their epic stories. They’re choosing some of their favorite stories written by kids over the years to be performed by our InterActors and shared with the community this weekend! Best for ages 4 and up. Highland Elementary School is located at 3100 Medway Street in Wheaton, MD.
Disney Singalong
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: Saturday, 12pm |Sunday, 10am & 12pm
Tickets: $15
Bring kiddos to sing along! Three of Olney Theatre’s favorite performers, Patricia Hurley Carpenter (Mary Poppins herself!), Ashleigh King (Elf the Musical), and Matt Schleigh (Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors) will lead kids of all ages in their favorite Disney songs from stage and screen.
Show Way the Musical
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, 7pm | Saturday & Sunday, 1:30pm & 4pm
Tickets: $20
Opening this weekend at the Kennedy Center… Soonie’s great-grandma was just seven years old when she was sold to a big plantation without her ma and pa, with only some fabric and needles to call her own. She began to stitch a Show Way, a quilt with secret meanings to show enslaved people the way to freedom. As each generation passes, the Show Way shines a light on the past and paves a road to the future, stitching together possibility and promise. Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s book of history, love, and resilience becomes a world premiere stage adaptation. This moving, lyrical account based on Woodson’s own family pays tribute to women whose strength and knowledge illuminate their daughters’ lives—from enslavement to freedom, through segregation, freedom marches, and the fight for literacy. Recommended for ages 7+.
Into the Woods
Where: Creative Cauldron | Falls Church, VA
When: Friday & Saturday 7:30pm | Sunday, 2pm & 7pm
Tickets: $40/adult, $25/child
Catch a performance of this just -opened show: With an imaginative book by James Lapine that skillfully intertwines the stories and characters from Grimm fairy tales, and a luscious score by Stephen Sondheim, this Tony Award-winning musical has become a timeless masterpiece. A baker and his wife wish for a child, Cinderella wishes to go to the King’s Festival and Jack wishes to sell his cow, so into the woods they must go in search of their prize. Happily ever after eludes them, however, as they soon learn the tangled consequences of getting exactly what you wished for.
The Fantastic Tale of Rumpelstiltskin
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Friday, 10:30am | Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am & 1pm
Tickets: $15
In this production, the Puppet Co. gives you the full story of what happens after the gold has been spun and the day has been saved. This hilarious and smart comedy will be a great romp for adults and kids alike. Can you guess Rumpelstiltskin’s new name?! Recommended ages 4+, and run time approximately 50 minutes. Sunday’s show is a sensory friendly performance.
NSO Family Concert: Philharmonia Fantastique
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Sunday, 2pm & 4pm
Tickets: $18-20
Dynamic concerto meets animated film! Through a mesmerizing hybrid of animated and live action filming, follow a magical Sprite as it embarks on a musical journey through the inner workings of an orchestra. Violin strings vibrate, brass valves slice air, and drum heads resonate like you’ve never seen before — all set to live music from members of the NSO. By the film’s end, the orchestra comes together in a spectacular finale! Recommended for all ages.
Word Up
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
I saw that some passes are still available for this weekend to visit Planet Word, the outstanding museum all about language. It’s full of fun and interesting exhibits, most of them interactive, with something for all ages to enjoy — including wonderful bits of magic. Our whole family loves it! Admission is free, but you need to reserve timed-entry passes. Be sure to read a KFDC write-up about it before you go!
Asian Festival on Main Where: Main Street | Old Town Fairfax, VA When: Sunday, 12-6pm Admission: Free
The Asian Festival on Main was created to bring people together and highlight cultural diversity through food and entertainment. Highlights of the fun, free, family-friendly event include more than 30 Asian food vendors serving culinary delights; performances like Filipino hiphop, Chinese lion dance, K-pop, Indian dance, Japanese dance, Chinese ribbon dance; and a cosplay costume contest.
Rumpus Room Where: Rooftop at Union Market | Northeast DC When: Sunday, 10am – 12pm Admission: $10
The Rumpus Room, DC’s only daytime dance party for families, returns for a spring fling on the rooftop of Union Market! Is there a better want to celebrate spring than showing off your dance moves, with your children, under the sun? We don’t think so!
Relive your night-life glory days with your little ones in tow. The soundtrack for the day will be a family-friendly mix of dance floor classics, current hits and guilty pleasures, all at a child-friendly volume. Hi-Lawn will be open for food and beverages at 11am. Tickets must be purchased in advance!
Spring Mini Fair (DC State Fair) Where: Brookland Arts Walk | Brookland, DC When: Sunday, 10am – 2pm Admission: Free
The first ever DC State Fair: Spring Mini-Fair is this weekend at the Brookland Arts Walk (716 Monroe St NE) and will serve as preview day of the annual fall DC State Fair held in September — a free showcase of the District’s agricultural and creative talents and a celebration of all things homegrown. Kids activities on Sunday will include an origami session and dance-off. At 10:30 am, join Taro’s Origami Certified Artists Yoshimi Muto and Michiko Okuma for a workshop on creating origami models such as dogs, cats, and rabbits. At noon, kids of all ages are invited to come strut their stuff to multiple music genres and earn a ribbon for best dancer.
Books in Bloom Festival Where: Color Burst Park | Columbia, MD When: Sunday, 11am – 5pm Admission: Free
The regions most progressive literary festival is on Sundayt. Headlined by Carl Bernstein, Pulitzer Prize-winning The Washington Post reporter who famously broke the Watergate story, this year’s festival will focus on activism through literature. More festivities for the whole family include a pop-up bookstore with dedicated banned books section, a children’s corner with activities including a bookmark-making section, exclusive food and beverage offerings from local favorites, a photo booth, and more.
Running of the Chihuahuas
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
It’s DC’s cutest and funniest Cinco de Mayo celebration as The Wharf hosts the 10th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas! The day will include live music, family fun, cold Pacifico beer, and of course, the highlight of the afternoon, chihuahuas racing for fame and fun! The event benefits Rural Dog Rescue, a non-profit dedicated to saving the lives of dogs in shelters who are often overlooked for adoption or rescue. Go here for information and to sign your chihuahua up to race visit. And read more about The Wharf here.
Nats vs. Astros
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary (look for discount) It’s like World Series all over again (but with a bunch of different players) as the Nats host the Astros this weekend. There are games Friday and Saturday evenings (7:05pm) and Sunday afternoon (1:35pm). Check for special promos here, and plan to stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases. And before you go, get some KFDC tips on doing Nats game without breaking the bank.
Soccer Spirit!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 5pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Cheer on our local women’s pro soccer team, Washington Spirit, as they host Angel City FC at Audi Field on Sunday. Enjoy some amazing soccer play while supporting women in sports! Purchase tickets here.
Charm City Fun, Hon!
Where: Around Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only is it nice to get a change of metro area scenery sometimes, Baltimore, our sister city just a 45-minute drive away, is full of fantastic, family-friendly things to do. This post has info about all of them, including big attractions, suggestions for places to eat, and neighborhoods to explore.
The Great Indoors
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Looks like rain again this weekend, so this list of over 100 activities and places to go around DC that are inside will come in handy. Some offerings at places mentioned may have changed a bit, but there are updates to reflect the current statuses. And something to note about the list: We have been to nearly every single place on it (and if we haven’t been to an actual place, like one of the roller skating rinks or indoor tennis courts, we have at least done the activity at one of the others). This is all to say the recommendations come from tried and true experience!
Exhibits to Experience Where: Museums around DC When: Throughout the weekend Admission: Free
Wet weather is a particularly great time to check out an exhibit, and there are a bunch of great ones to experience at our local museums right now, with something for all ages. One with Eternity: Yayoi Kusama in the Hirshhorn Collection is a fantastic delight! Afro-Atlantic Histories at the National Gallery of Art is educational . Kiddos can hang with Thomas and Friends at the National Children’s Museum. Laurie Anderson: The Weather at the Hirshhorn is a really cool one, best for tween ages and up. Enjoy spring flowers indoors as you immerse in Pixelbloom at ARTECHOUSE (get a glimpse here). And, of course, the rest of our Smithsonians have permanent collections that we never get tired of seeing — see links to them and loads of other museums and indoor places here.
This post is paid for by Acton Academy of Washington, DC, however, I only promote programs and places that I genuinely believe in and think will appeal to KFDC readers.