Memorial Day weekend in the D.C. region serves as both a solemn occasion to honor those who served and a nice opportunity for families to gather and celebrate the beginning of summer.
With schools closed and a three-day weekend ahead, families in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia can take advantage of a wide range of local Memorial Day events.
From parades and historical observances to outdoor festivals, museum exhibits, and kid-friendly entertainment, there are countless ways to honor the holiday while enjoying time together.
Whether you’re searching for family-friendly Memorial Day activities in D.C., Maryland or Northern Virginia, this guide features the top events and attractions happening throughout the weekend.
To create this guide, we conducted thorough research and reviewed feedback from parents and local sources across platforms like Google and Yelp. Every place mentioned was carefully vetted to ensure it offers a fun, family-friendly experience and includes up-to-date details that help parents plan with confidence.
DC family-friendly events
National Children’s Museum
Why It’s Great: The National Children’s Museum at Woodrow Wilson Plaza in DC will have extended hours during the Memorial Day weekend. This means extra time to explore the many exhibits which offer opportunities for learning and play.
Date: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., May 24-26
Location: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Why It’s Great: The Georgetown Waterfront is a great summer visit with its large water fountain, biking trails, picnic spots and music performances.
Date: May 24-26
Location: 3303 Water St. NW, Washington, DC
Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Why It’s Great: Smithsonian’s National Zoo is home to over 2,200 animals, including lions, otters and komodo dragons. With the sheer amount of available species, there’s an animal for everyone. The Kid’s Farm exhibit allows kids to get up close to cows, chickens, alpacas, goats, fish and more.
Date: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., May 24-26
Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Maryland family-friendly events
Hometown Holidays
Why It’s Great: Hometown Holidays at Rockville Town Center is a great choice for music lovers. There will be a variety of musical genres available to cater to different tastes. Food and drink are also available, as well as activities specifically for kids, like games and crafts.
Date: 12-6 p.m., May 24-25
Location: 14500 Avery Rd., Rockville, Md.
City of Bowie Memorial Day Parade
Why It’s Great: This parade in Prince George’s County will offer marching bands and performing groups. Vendors will offer food and merchandise, as well as other entertainment following the parade.
Date: 11 a.m., May 24
Location: Belair Dr., Bowie, Md.
Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
Why It’s Great: The Adventure Park offers family-friendly outdoor fun with an aerial forest and a labyrinth to explore. They accommodate different skill levels and provide robust safety equipment and demonstrations.
Date: 9 a.m.-11 p.m., May 24, 9 a.m.-10 p.m., May 25 and 9 a.m.-7 p.m., May 26
Location: 16701 Norwood Rd., Sandy Spring, Md.
Maryland Plant Fest
Why It’s Great: The Maryland Plant Fest is returning for the Memorial Day weekend. Families with nature lovers will be able to see rare and tropical plants. The fest also fosters a sense of community by showcasing local brands and businesses.
Date: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 24-26
Location: 15710 Layhill Rd., Silver Spring, Md.
Virginia family-friendly events
ViVa! Vienna!
Why It’s Great: ViVa! Vienna! is a celebratory festival for Memorial Day. There’s something for everyone here, from crafts and music to amusement rides and food.
Date: 10 a.m.-10 p.m., May 24-25 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m., May 26
Location: 124 Church St. NE, Vienna, Va.
Round Hill Hometown Festival
Why It’s Great: The 21st annual Round Hill Hometown Festival takes place in Loudoun County on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It includes a 5k and children’s run, parade, cornhole tournament, downhill derby and evening concert. Lunch and dinner will be available, with the help of a number of food trucks.
Date: 8 a.m.-10 p.m., May 24
Location: 23 Main St., Round Hill, Va.
Memorial Day Kids and Family Festival
Why It’s Great: This festival hosted by Shipgarten includes a number of outdoor activities like moon bounces and playgrounds. Families can take photos in the provided booths, or participate in face painting. Dogs are also welcome so feel free to bring your furry friends!
Date: 12-6 p.m., May 26
Location: 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons, Va.
Waterworks Waterpark
Why It’s Great: Kick off the unofficial start of summer at Waterworks Waterpark, located at the Andrew Leitch Park in Northern Virginia. In addition to a number of slides and pools, there’s a shaded lounge cabana area as well as a full-service snack bar.
Date: 12-6 p.m., May 24-26
Location: 5301 Dale Blvd., Dale City, Va.
For more events, please click here to check out our calendar.
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.
