Things to Do With Kids in the DMV This Weekend (July 24-26)

Looking for the best things to do with kids in the DMV this weekend? Summer is in full swing, and the region is packed with ways to fill July 31-Aug. 2 without breaking the bank. From free live music and bilingual story time to hands-on art at the Kennedy Center, a beloved heritage festival, sunflower fields and a glow-in-the-dark treetop adventure, we’ve rounded up our favorite things to do with kids across the District, Maryland and Northern Virginia, leading with the free options in each area. Confirm details with each organizer before you head out, and pack water and sunscreen for the summer heat.

This page is updated every week, so bookmark it for future planning. Check our DC Kids Events calendar for new events added throughout the week. Looking to keep the budget light? Check out free family activities in the DMV this month, updated regularly with the best no-cost options in the area.

Here are our favorite free things to do with kids in DC this weekend.

America 250 July Music Performances

• Date: Friday, July 31, 5 to 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Eastern Market Metro Plaza Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
• Cost: Free

Wind down the week with live outdoor music on Capitol Hill as the DMV Music Academy Brass Ensemble performs in this summer series celebrating local talent and the nation’s 250th birthday. Spread out a blanket, let the kids move to the beat and enjoy an easygoing evening close to home. It’s a simple, feel-good way to soak up a summer night in the city.

Observe the Sun

• Date: Friday and Saturday, July 31-Aug. 1, noon to 3 p.m.
• Location: Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Seventh Street and Independence Avenue SW
• Cost: Free

Step up to a safe, filtered telescope for a rare close-up look at our nearest star, including sunspots and solar flares. Museum educators are on hand to answer kids’ questions and explain what they’re seeing, making this an easy, awe-inspiring stop for curious young scientists. No reservations are required, though the program is weather-dependent, so check the forecast before you go.

Moonshot Studio at the REACH

• Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Location: The REACH at the Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW
• Cost: Free

Drop in for hands-on artmaking at the Kennedy Center’s creative studio. No reservations are required; it’s first come, first served, and most projects take 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Recommended for ages 5 and older, it’s an easy, free stop you can pair with a stroll along the REACH grounds and riverfront.

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious!

• Date: Friday-Sunday, July 31-Aug. 2, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Location: National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
• Cost: Included with museum admission

Curious George is back at the National Children’s Museum with a hands-on exhibit made for young explorers. Kids can dig into science, math and engineering through building, sorting, problem-solving and plenty of creative play. It’s included with museum admission, so you can pair it with a full day of interactive fun under one roof, especially if the weather turns.

In Maryland, these are the things to do with kids close to home.

Spanish Story Circle

• Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, noon to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Third Space for Kids, 7801 Norfolk Ave., No. 200, Bethesda
• Cost: Free

Little language learners will love this 30-minute session of interactive bilingual Spanish read-alouds, songs and playful activities. The stories spark imagination while gently building vocabulary in Spanish and English. Story Circle is free for all, and members can stay for open play afterward, making it an easy outing in downtown Bethesda.

Bethesda Outdoor Movies: “La La Land”

• Date: Friday, July 31, 8:45 p.m.
• Location: County Parking Lot 24, 4650 Willow Lane, Bethesda
• Cost: Free

Downtown Bethesda’s beloved summer movie series returns to the big inflatable screen with a free outdoor showing of “La La Land.” Pack blankets and low chairs, grab a treat from the on-site vendors and settle in for a family movie night under the stars. Arrive early to claim a good spot; the PG-13 pick is best suited to tweens and up.

Glow in the Park: Family Night Climbing and Ziplining

• Date: Friday and Saturday, July 31-Aug. 1, 6 to 11 p.m.
• Location: The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, 16701 Norwood Road, Sandy Spring
• Cost: Ticketed

As the sun sets, the forest transforms into a glowing outdoor playground of illuminated climbing trails and ziplines set to energetic music. Families can take on two hours of climbing and ziplining in the treetops for a one-of-a-kind nighttime adventure. It’s a memorable, active pick for older kids and teens; book tickets in advance and dress for the woods.

Sleeping Beauty: The Time Traveler

• Date: Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1-2, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Adventure Theatre, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo
• Cost: Ticketed

Adventure Theatre puts a clever spin on a classic with this time-traveling tale, following a young traveler back through history to team up with a brave Princess Aurora. The imaginative production is full of humor, music and heart, with a quest built on friendship and courage. Set in charming Glen Echo Park, it’s a welcoming introduction to live theater for younger audiences.

Over in Northern Virginia, add these things to do with kids to your list

33rd Annual Manassas African American Heritage Festival

• Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Location: Grace E. Metz Middle School, 9950 Wellington Road, Manassas
• Cost: Free

Celebrate community at this free festival featuring live music and dance, a classic car show, a health fair and vendors offering African art and handmade goods. Local bands take the stage throughout the afternoon, and families can connect with schools, youth organizations and area resources. It’s a lively, welcoming way to spend a summer Saturday and honor the region’s rich heritage.

Sunday Art in the Park: Two Bass Hit

• Date: Sunday, Aug. 2, 7 to 8 p.m.
• Location: Reston Town Square Park, 11900 Market St., Reston
• Cost: Free

Cap off the weekend with an evening of live music at Reston Town Square Park as part of the Sunday Art in the Park series, featuring Two Bass Hit’s electro-acoustic jazz and folk from around the world. Families can spread out a blanket, share a picnic and unwind in a relaxed outdoor setting. It’s a warm, free way to send everyone into the new week on a high note.

Carlyle House Family Fun Day

• Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, noon to 3 p.m.
• Location: Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria
• Cost: See listing

This first-Saturday tradition pairs story time at the top of each hour with themed crafts and hands-on activities inside a historic Old Town landmark. Kids get a creative, screen-free afternoon while families explore one of Alexandria’s most storied homes. Check the listing for the month’s theme and admission details before you go.

The Summer of Sunflowers

• Date: Friday-Sunday, July 31-Aug. 2, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Location: Burnside Farms, 11008 Kettle Run Road, Nokesville
• Cost: Ticketed

Wander through acres of vibrant sunflower fields and enjoy a pick-your-own experience at this seasonal favorite. With dozens of sunflower varieties and scenic farm views, it’s a relaxing, photo-worthy outing that kids and grown-ups both love. Aim for the early hours for cooler temperatures, softer light and a more comfortable way to explore the blooms.

Prince William County Fair

• Date: Friday, July 31, starting at 5 p.m.; fair continues into August
• Location: Prince William County Fairground, 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas
• Cost: Ticketed

Experience a true country fair complete with carnival rides, games, live entertainment and classic fair food. This well-loved summer tradition packs in entertainment for every age in a festive, family-friendly setting. Check the schedule for daily hours and ticket prices before you head out.