Looking for tasty ways to spend late summer with kids? We’ve rounded up six family‑friendly food festivals in August and September 2025 around Washington, DC, including regional favorites in Maryland and Virginia. Our info comes from parents‑favorite guides like DC Moms, MommyPoppins and Visit Alexandria, ensuring reliable dates, times and details. In this article, you’ll find lively festivals featuring everything from global bites to carnival eats, magic and live performances. Each listing includes highlights, reasons to go and all the essential information. Ready to feast and play? Let’s dive in!
Howard County Fair
Howard County Fairgrounds delivers classic fair food plus carnival rides, games, pony rides, pig races and more, all budget‑friendly for families. Kids can eat cotton candy and sample funnel cakes, and parents can enjoy local fare, all in a lively, small‑town fair atmosphere. With free admission for kids 12 and under, it’s a cost‑effective day out with endless fun.
Date: Aug. 2-9
Location: 2210 Fairgrounds Road, West Friendship, MD
Hours: Check website for times of events.
Contact: (410) 442-1022
Website: https://howardcountyfairmd.com/
Shipgarten Kids and Family Festivals
Every Sunday in August, Shipgarten transforms into a family playground with themed entertainment and delicious food in a laid-back, outdoor beer garden setting. Located in McLean just minutes from Tysons Corner, Shipgarten is a casual open-air venue known for its rotating food stalls, kid- and dog-friendly atmosphere, and spacious outdoor seating. Each Sunday features a new kid-centric theme, like Smurfs & Wicked, Spider-Man & Frozen, or Renaissance Day. Activities include face-painting, moon bounces, arts and crafts, interactive photo booths and a petting zoo. Families can enjoy full menus from on-site restaurants offering burgers, brats, tacos and more while kids play. With shaded seating, parking nearby, and open green space, it’s a convenient and fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Date: Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31
Location: Shipgarten, 7581 Colshire Drive, McLean, VA
Hours: Restaurant opens 11 a.m.; festival is 12‑6 p.m.
Contact: (703) 712-7481
Website: https://shipgarten.com/events/
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
Gaithersburg fairgrounds feature carnival rides, game booths and plenty of food, everything from corn dogs to fried Oreos. Families flock for Grandstand events like monster trucks, demolition derby and pig races, along with kids’ activities. Admission is free for ages 11 and under, so it’s great value. Whether your child’s ready for thrill rides or sweet treats, there’s something to please every appetite and age.
Date: Aug. 8-16
Location: 501 Perry Parkway, Gaithersburg, MD
Hours: Check website for times of events.
Contact: (301) 963-3247
Website: https://mcagfair.com/
Prince William County Fair
The Prince William County fair includes mechanical bull rides, camel and pony rides, livestock shows and classic carnival food. The fair is ideal for families wanting a rural fair experience close to DC. Expect funnel cakes, corn dogs and fun fair rides. Discount days make it affordable, and the laid‑back atmosphere is perfect for younger children. A true country‑fair vibe with plenty of kid‑appealing food.
Date: Aug. 8‑16
Location: 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas, VA
Hours: Check website for time of events.
Contact: (703) 368-0173
Website: https://www.princewilliamcountyfairgrounds.com/
2025 Around the World Cultural Food Festival
Get ready to globe hop without leaving Alexandria! This free celebration offers kid‑friendly moon bounces, live cultural performances, and arts and crafts, alongside food stalls representing global cuisines. With two beer gardens for parents and a food carnival vibe, this event blends fun, flavor and family time. It’s stroller‑friendly and pet‑friendly, too, making it a win for everyone. It’s a great chance for kids to experience new tastes and cultures in a relaxed outdoors setting.
Date: Aug. 23
Location: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., Alexandria, VA
Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Contact: (703) 889-0202
Website: https://aroundtheworldfestival.com/
Greenbelt Labor Day Festival
Roosevelt Center in Greenbelt offers free carnival games, craft fair, musical performances and a corn‑dog-filled fair-food lineup. Family-friendly contests include pie‑eating and cornhole. With parades, live music and arts, kids are entertained all weekend. It’s a community‑oriented event with creative booths and tasty eats, and a strong local tradition that’s easy and fun for families.
Date: Aug. 29-Sept. 1
Location: Historical Roosevelt Center, 101 Centerway Greenbelt, MD
Hours: Check website for time of events.
Contact: greenbeltlaborday@gmail.com
Website: https://greenbeltlaborday.com/
These festivals offer tasty fun, entertainment and culture, all within reach for families this late summer. Be sure to check official sites before heading out, and enjoy the flavors of the season!
