Is your family on a budget this summer but still in the mood for fun? That’s where this list of free events comes into play. Local families in DC, Maryland or Virginia, can find enjoyable, kid-friendly events and things to do for free this August.
This list comes from events posted on Google, Eventbrite, city calendars and social media platforms like Facebook.
Daytime Solar Observing
The National Air and Space Museum invites future astronomers and space enthusiasts to safely observe the sun through a filtered telescope on Fridays and Saturdays. Staff will be there to guide and answer questions.
Location: 6th Street and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
When: 12-3 p.m. Fri-Sat Aug. 1-30
Movies on the Green
Families are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs to the Cabin John Village Green for an evening show of “Frozen 2.”
Location: 11325 Seven Locks Road, Montgomery County, MD
When: 7-10 p.m. Aug. 1
Bethesda Outdoor Movie
Catch a free outdoor showing of great movies like “Akeelah and the Bee” and “500 Days of Summer.” Some chairs will be provided but guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
Location: 4650 Willow Lane, Chevy Chase, MD
When: 8:45 p.m. Aug. 1-8
American Landscapes in Watercolor from the Corcoran Collection
Visit the National Gallery of Art and view 30 watercolor works dating as far back as the nation’s early years, when watercolor was used for mapping and documenting the landscape. Features range from the ocean waters of New England to the Grand Canyon.
Location: 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Aug. 2-31
Carlyle House Family Fun Day – Pet Fête
The Carlyle House Magnolia Terrace is hosting Family Fun Day. Visit for story time and participate in the following crafts and activities.
Location: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA
When: 12-3 p.m., Aug. 2
Majic Wednesdays
The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment is hosting a free concert series on Wednesday evenings at Sycamore and Oak in DC.
Location: 1110 Oak Drive SE, Washington, DC
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 6-13
Summer Serenades
There are three Live from the Lawn concerts on Wednesdays in August. These are all family-friendly shows and guests are encouraged to bring a blanket. Upcoming shows include Cabo Verdean singer Elida Almeida and folk-pop group Juliet Lloyd Band.
Location: 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD
When: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6-20
Pups in the Pavilion
Families are welcome to bring their furry friends to the Pavilion at Reston Town Square Park. The Pavilion will temporarily become a pop-up dog park with local vendors and pet-friendly giveaways.
Location: 11900 Market St., Reston, VA
When: 5-7:30 p.m. Aug. 6
Movies Under the Moon
Catch “Mulan II” at Van Dyck Park in Fairfax. Families are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs, along with snacks.
Location: 3720 Blenheim Blvd., Fairfax, VA
When: 8-10 p.m. Aug. 8
Open Barn at Old Maryland Farm
Old Maryland Farm is inviting you to meet their friendly livestock and horses. Attendance is free, no registration required.
Location: 351 Watkins Park Drive, Kettering, MD
When: 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Aug. 9
Movies in the Park
Stead Park is hosting a movie night with “The Greatest Showman.” Families can bring along a blanket for a viewing experience under the stars.
Location: 1625 P St. NW, Washington, DC
When: 8:30 p.m. Aug. 9
STAR Fest 2025
STAR Fest, which stands for Sing, Talk and Read, is a free family-friendly festival that celebrates early learning. There will be live music performances, imaginative play, family story time, soft play activities and more.
Location: 901 G. St. NW, Washington, DC
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 16
ACS Kids Zone in DC
This free public event near the Children’s Museum is intended for all ages, in an effort to make science fun and accessible. Learn about spices and scents, make long-lasting bubbles, take memorable photos and enjoy giveaways and prizes.
Location: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 16
Related
Last-Minute Weekend Getaways Before School Starts for Families in DC
Seth Hagler is a freelance writer and an intern with Washington Parent. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is currently pursuing an M.A. in Writing from Johns Hopkins University.
Seth Hagler is a freelance writer and an intern with Washington Parent. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is currently pursuing an M.A. in Writing from Johns Hopkins University.
