Summer mornings just got a lot more exciting at National Harbor. National Harbor Kids Day returns this summer, bringing free family activities, story times, live performances and PBS Kids experiences to the waterfront every Tuesday.
Returning for the summer, Kids Day transforms the National Harbor Plaza into a lively family-friendly destination every Tuesday morning from June through August. The weekly series combines entertainment, educational activities and interactive experiences designed to keep little ones engaged while giving parents an easy (and free) summer outing option.
With waterfront views, rotating themes and activities for a wide range of ages, it’s the kind of event families can visit more than once without feeling repetitive.
Key takeaways
- The bigger picture: Kids Day takes place every Tuesday morning from June through August at National Harbor.
- The details: Events are free and family-friendly. Activities include story times, live performances, PBS Kids experiences and hands-on workshops.
- The more you know: The waterfront location makes it easy to turn the event into a full family outing. Arriving early is recommended for shaded seating and easier parking.
What is Kids Day?
Kids Day is National Harbor’s recurring summer event series focused entirely on family fun. Families can gather at the Plaza for different themed activities ranging from performances and story times to educational workshops and interactive entertainment at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday.
One week might feature dancing and PBS Kids characters, while another could include wildlife-themed art activities, musical theater performances or opportunities to meet local firefighters and police officers.
The rotating schedule keeps the experience fresh throughout the summer and makes it easy for families to pick dates based on their children’s interests.
What families can expect
One of the biggest highlights this year is the return of WHUT, Howard University Television’s interactive PBS Kids programming. The 2026 theme, “Retro PBS Kids,” blends nostalgic favorites with newer characters and activities designed to spark cross-generational fun for both kids and parents.
Families can also look forward to:
- Interactive story times with the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System
- Meet-and-greets with police and fire departments
- Hands-on wildlife and art workshops
- Historical activities with George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- More fun events
The event series mixes education with entertainment in a way that feels playful rather than overly structured, ideal for younger children who learn best through movement, music and hands-on activities.
Standout summer events
Retro PBS Kids Experiences
WHUT’s PBS Kids programming will appear multiple times throughout the summer and is expected to be one of the season’s biggest draws. Families can participate in activities inspired by beloved PBS Kids shows while exploring creativity, storytelling and interactive learning.
Wildlife Wonder Boat Activities
Several events this summer tie into National Harbor’s newest public artwork, Wildlife Wonder Boat. Children can participate in coloring activities, learn about endangered species and even earn certificates while exploring themes centered around wildlife conservation.
Teen Performance Ensemble Musical
On July 28, families can catch a special performance of “The Case of the Vanishing Vase,” a kid-friendly musical mystery presented by the Teen Performance Ensemble. The interactive storyline and live theater format make it especially fun for elementary-aged children.
Australian Didgeridoo Workshop
One of the most unique events of the summer arrives Aug. 11 when families can learn about the didgeridoo from Australian artist Cameron McCarthy. Kids will get an introduction to the instrument’s history, sound and storytelling traditions.
Why parents love it
For DMV parents, Kids Day checks several important boxes:
- It’s free
- It happens during daytime hours
- It’s stroller-friendly
- It offers built-in variety
- It’s educational
- There are restaurants, bathrooms and shaded areas nearby
The waterfront location also makes it easy to turn the event into a full day outing. Families can grab lunch, ride the Capital Wheel, walk along the harbor or cool off with ice cream afterward.
Because activities begin in the morning, it’s also a great option before peak summer heat kicks in later in the day.
Good to know before you go
Kids Day at National Harbor
- Time: 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, June-August
- Location: 165 Waterfront St., National Harbor
- Cost: Free
- Phone: (877) 628-5427
Best for:
- Toddlers and elementary-aged children
- Families looking for free weekday activities
- Summer playdates
- Educational entertainment
- Waterfront family outings
Parent tips:
- Arrive early for shaded seating areas.
- Bring water, sunscreen and strollers for younger kids.
- Parking garages nearby can fill quickly on busy summer mornings.
- Pair the event with lunch or dessert around the Harbor afterward.
