Families searching for things to do in DC this weekend with kids will find plenty of standout events across the region from Feb. 27 through March 1. From summer camp planning and live theater to high-energy circus performances, this weekend offers memorable experiences for all ages.
The final Camp & Family Fitness Fair of 2026 at Fair Oaks Mall gives families a chance to meet summer camps in person, compare sports, arts and STEM programs, and take part in interactive fitness activities. It’s the last opportunity this season to connect directly with camp directors and walk away with real summer plans in place.
Beyond the fair, the weekend from Feb. 13–22 is packed with theater, art, cultural celebrations and creative programs across the DC metro area, giving families even more ways to get out and make the most of February. As you plan your weekend, don’t miss the February digital magazine of Washington Parent, now free to read, featuring winter family guides, Black History Month events and more ideas to keep your calendar full.
For a full list of upcoming events, visit our DC Kids Events calendar
February 27th
HRC Foundation’s Welcoming Schools National Day of Reading
- Time: 12:30–1:00 p.m.
- Location: Fairfax Regional Library, 10360 North St., Fairfax, Va.
Families are invited to a special inclusive storytime sponsored by Fairfax County Public Library and FCPS Pride. Fairfax Mayor Catherine Read will serve as the guest reader. Children ages 3–8 can enjoy stories including Marley’s Pride and Chloe and the Fireflies, along with make-and-take crafts celebrating empathy, representation and belonging.
Pickleball Family — All Ages (Drop-In)
- Time: 1:00–3:15 p.m.
- Location: Germantown Community Recreation Center, Germantown, Md.
Families can hit the courts for an afternoon of pickleball fun. A valid membership is required, and an adult must accompany children under age 12. Schedule subject to change.
90-Minute Weekday Recess at Funbox Bowie
- Time: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
- Location: Funbox Bowie, 3861 Evergreen Parkway, Bowie, Md.
A relaxed weekday play session invites families, friends, and learning communities to enjoy flexible daytime fun in an inclusive setting. Weekday Recess at Funbox Bowie is geared toward homeschool groups, microschools, learning pods, little ones not yet in school, and families simply looking for a weekday outing together.
Jump sessions begin every 15 minutes and include a 90-minute play window in the inflatable park. The final session ends at 4:30 p.m., giving families multiple options to choose a start time that fits their schedule.
The first 90-minute session of the day is sensory-friendly, offering reduced noise and a calmer pace while maintaining full access to the space. The event also provides an opportunity for caregivers to connect while kids jump and play.
February 27th to 28th
Freckleface Strawberry
- Time: 11:00 a.m. (weekday daytime show)
- Location: Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md.
Based on the beloved New York Times best-selling book by actress Julianne Moore, Freckleface Strawberry The Musical is a fun and touching family production about learning to love what makes you unique. Freckleface Strawberry tries everything to get rid of her freckles — from scrubbing them with soap to wearing a ski mask to school. With help from her lovable classmates and a totally kooky teacher, she discovers that being different is what makes everyone special. Additional performances run through Feb. 28.
ARTEFFECT Gallery at the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream
- Time: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
- Location: Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, 1503 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.
The permanent “Visualizing Impact” exhibition showcases award-winning ARTEFFECT artwork created by students in grades 6–12 from the United States and around the world. The exhibit spans painting, drawing, sculpture and collage, alongside text panels and short films exploring the stories of Unsung Heroes. Themed sections include Freedom, Justice, Remembering the Holocaust, Women in STEAM, Innovation and Medical Breakthroughs.
February 27th to March 1st
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
- Time: 7:30 p.m. (Feb. 25–28) and 2:00 p.m. (March 1)
- Location: Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, 51 Mannakee St., Rockville, Md.
Percy Jackson’s world turns upside down in this action-packed stage adaptation of The Lightning Thief. When Zeus’s master lightning bolt is stolen, Percy becomes the prime suspect and must set out on a quest to clear his name and prevent a war among the gods. Along the way, he faces mythological monsters, deciphers a troubling prophecy, and journeys to the Underworld — all while grappling with newly discovered powers and the challenges of being a demigod.
February 28
Camp & Family Fitness Fair
- Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Location: Fair Oaks Mall, 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, Va.
Kick off summer planning with camp ideas, giveaways and family fitness activities kids can jump into right away. This high-energy event combines everything families love about camp fairs with a fresh focus on movement, wellness and healthy fun. Meet camp staff in person and explore programs in sports, arts, STEM and overnight camps. Families can also take part in fitness-focused activities designed to get kids moving and energized. With hands-on experiences, giveaways and lively interactions, the fair feels like a preview of an active, engaging summer ahead.
LEGO in the Library
- Time: 10:30–11:30 a.m.
- Location: Great Falls Library, Great Falls, Va.
Ages 4–18. Calling all LEGO lovers! The library provides the bricks and kids bring the imagination. Creations must stay at the library, so bring a camera to capture masterpieces. Please leave personal LEGO pieces at home. Caregivers must stay with children 7 and younger; children ages 8–11 must have a caregiver in the library. Space is limited to 20 participants. First-come, first-served. Registration provides updates and reminders but does not guarantee a spot.
Celebrate the Year of the Horse
- Time: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Location: Westfield Montgomery, 7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, Md.
Westfield Montgomery, in partnership with the Chinese Culture and Community Service Center, hosts a free, family-friendly Lunar New Year celebration at Macy’s Court. The festival features traditional performances, hands-on workshops, community service activities and interactive experiences honoring the cultural heritage of the Asian American community.
Movement and The North Face Free Climbing Day
- Time: 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Location: Movement Rockville, 725 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Md.
Movement Rockville teams up with The North Face for a nationwide Free Climbing Day, offering complimentary gym access and free gear rentals throughout the day. Climbers of all levels are invited to try indoor climbing, challenge themselves on new routes and experience the sport in a welcoming environment.
Hill Family Biking: Building Museum Ride
- Time: 1:30–4 p.m.
- Location: Ride starts at Watkins Elementary School, 420 12th St. SE, Washington, DC
Hill Family Biking hosts a 3.5-mile slow ride to the National Building Museum, traveling along protected bike lanes through Washington, DC. Families are invited to join this relaxed group ride owntown, designed to be comfortable and accessible for riders of all ages.
The Princess and The Pea: An Actors Theatre for Young Audiences Production
- Time: 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 2:00–4:30 p.m.
- Location: ARTfactory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas, Va.
Prince John must find a princess to marry in order to claim the throne. A masked ball seems like the perfect solution, but his stepmother, the Queen, and her mischievous jester have other plans. Will the true princess pass every test? Enjoy this lively, family-friendly production filled with humor and heart.
Black History & Culture Fest
- Time: 1–5 p.m.
- Location: Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling, Va.
The third annual Black History & Culture Fest celebrates Black excellence, culture and history with an afternoon of local vendors, live performances, artists, speakers and educational exhibits. The free community event honors the past, highlights the present and encourages future generations through engaging programs for all ages.
Capital Irish Film Festival – Family Friendly Short Films
- Time: 11:00–11:30 a.m.
- Location: AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, Md.
Part of the Capital Irish Film Festival, this family-friendly shorts program features three engaging films celebrating Irish storytelling and culture. Follow Éiru, a determined young girl on a mythic quest; experience the poetic, multi-generational journey of “Wildkind”; and join Sophia the squirrel in “One Track Mind,” a touching story about friendship and healing.
Paws to Read with Lucy
- Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m.
- Location: Fairfax Library, Fairfax, Va.
Children are invited to read aloud to Lucy, a trained therapy dog. Bring a favorite book or choose one from the library. Walk-ins are welcome.
March 1st
Omnium Circus: I’m Possible II
- Time: 3:00–5:00 p.m.
- Location: Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, Washington, DC
The Visionary Omnium Circus returns to the Warner Theatre with a brand-new cast and never-before-seen artists performing daring feats, live music and a message centered on hope and inclusion. This high-energy production celebrates diversity and reminds audiences that everybody belongs. Babes in arms do not require tickets.
Youth Art Month Exhibit
- Time: See venue for hours
- Location: RCC Lake Anne, 1609-A Washington Plz. N, Reston, Va.
View artwork created by students from Reston elementary schools as part of Youth Art Month. Families can explore a variety of creative pieces highlighting young local talent in this community exhibit.
Tiny Art Show Make & Take
- Time: See library for pickup hours
- Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, Alexandria, Va.
Event Format: Virtual with take-home materials. Create tiny art inspired by the All Alexandria Reads theme of America 250. Pick up a kit to design and craft a miniature masterpiece at home while supplies last.
Storytime for Young Readers
- Time: 9:30–10:00 a.m.
- Location: People’s Book, 7014-A Westmoreland Ave., Takoma Park, Md.
Join People’s Book every Sunday for a free children’s storytime followed by an activity or craft. Authors and illustrators visit each week, giving families a chance to hear stories and get books signed. Make a morning of it by visiting the Takoma Park Farmer’s Market or enjoying brunch nearby.
