Spring is settling in across the DC area, making it one of the best times to explore family-friendly events, outdoor festivals, and hands-on activities with kids. This weekend, April 24–26, brings a mix of seasonal experiences—from spring fairs and live performances to interactive exhibits, nature outings, and creative workshops designed for all ages. Whether you’re searching for things to do with kids in Washington, DC, planning a day trip in Maryland, or looking for family events in Northern Virginia, there’s something happening nearby to fill your weekend with fresh ideas and memorable moments.
Want even more ideas — plus exclusive giveaways and family deals? Join the Washington Parent newsletter and get the best events delivered straight to your inbox each week.
Location: Waugh Chapel Towne Centre, 1417 South Main Chapel Way, Gambrills, MD
Enjoy a relaxing evening under the spring sky with a community movie night at Waugh Chapel Towne Centre. This event invites guests to unwind, watch a featured film, and take in a fun, social atmosphere. Tickets are required for entry.
Location: Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (MCAAD), 1503 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC
This free gallery showcases award-winning student artwork from around the world, featuring a variety of media and styles. Centered on the theme of “Unsung Heroes,” the gallery explores stories of courage, innovation, and impact through visual displays.
Families can step into an interactive experience celebrating iconic treats from The Hershey Company. Featuring hands-on games, multi-sensory activities, and playful challenges, the event offers a fun-filled environment that sparks creativity for all ages. Tickets are required.
Location: Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC
Enjoy a powerful dance performance by the Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company celebrates Asian American heritage through expressive storytelling and movement. Featuring selections from the company’s acclaimed repertoire along with a world premiere piece, the program highlights diverse perspectives and the emotional depth of the experience. Tickets are required.
Browse a wide selection of gently used books, CDs, and DVDs at this seasonal sale. Items are organized by category, making it easy for visitors to discover new reads, music, and films.
Enjoy a lively stage production that brings classic tales like The Tortoise and the Hare and The Boy Who Cried Wolf to life through humor and imagination. A troupe of traveling storytellers guides audiences through timeless lessons on honesty, kindness and perseverance in this engaging performance for young audiences. Tickets are required.
Location: Faith Lutheran Church, 3313 Arlington Boulevard, Arlington, VA
Experience a twist on bingo with the arrival of adorable baby goats at this lively spring event. Guests can enjoy a fun and interactive game while spending time with the animals in a cheerful, family-friendly setting. Tickets are required.
Location: The Kreeger Museum, 2401 Foxhall Road NW, Washington, DC
This hands-on watercolor workshop invites participants to explore color mixing techniques while painting in the museum’s gardens. Open to all skill levels, the session encourages creativity and inspiration drawn from the surrounding spring landscape.
Location: Old Firehouse Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA
This inclusive sensory event allows guests to explore a variety of hands-on experiences that engages taste, smell, sound, sight, and touch. Designed to support Autism Awareness Month, the program is free and open to all ages.
Location: The Boro Tysons, 8350 Broad Street, Tysons, VA
Have fun at a dog-friendly spring celebration that brings the community together for a festive morning planned for pets and their owners! Participants can enjoy games, treats, crafts, and photo opportunities in a lively outdoor setting. The event is free and open to all.
This annual community festival showcases local music, art, and live performances. Visitors can enjoy a variety of creative activities and entertainment, with special 250th anniversary events highlighted during the celebration.
This spring fair features food, music, crafts, games, raffles, and a silent auction in support of the WLCN co-op preschool. The community event offers family-friendly activities while raising funds for the nonprofit nursery school.
Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day! During this event, participants are able to visit local independent bookstores across the DC area. Guests who visit six or more stores can earn prizes, enter raffles, and enjoy special programs and promotions at participating locations.
Location: Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 Marcey Road, Arlington, VA
Explore the park after dark with a guided look at nocturnal wildlife, followed by a relaxed campfire gathering. Visitors can learn about local nighttime ecology in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Location: Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, 10431 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD
This free outdoor concert features the Maryland Winds performing a patriotic program inspired by composer John Williams in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Guests can enjoy iconic works and American compositions in a relaxed park setting in Downtown Columbia.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
