Top Family-Friendly Activities in the DMV this Weekend (7/31 – 8/2)

young boy watches bowling ball head down the lane towards the pins.
AMF Marlow Heights in MD is looking for kids ages 6-18 to join their upcoming youth bowling league starting in September! Tap the image above for info. Scholarships available.
  • Updated: 7/29/2026

Note: This weekly listing is full of events happening throughout the weekend for kids (ages 3+) – teens. I place a special emphasis on literacy, STEM & other educational based events as well as family fun festivities. Please click the links to review the most up-to-date information prior to heading out!

Coming Up this Weekend

round circle glasses with a lightning bolt like Harry Potter graphic.
It's Harry Potter's Birthday! Check out two events on Friday (7/31) in DC in celebration of Harry.

Friday, July 31, 2026

Washington, DC

  • [Just Added] Friday (7/31) at 9:00 am | Discovery Golf Clinic at Langston Golf Course in NE ♥
    • This beginner-friendly clinic is perfect for children who are new to golf. First Tee instructors will lead interactive activities while teaching golf fundamentals, confidence, sportsmanship, and life skills. All equipment will be provided—just bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a willingness to have fun!
  • Friday (7/31) at 11:00 am | Harry Potter Birthday Marathon at Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library in SE ♣
    • Enjoy an all‑day Harry Potter movie marathon and craft your very own magical wand.
  • Friday (7/31) at 2:00 pm | Harry Potter Week at Capitol View Neighborhood Library in SE (Best for ages 5-19) ♣
    • Includes a Harry Potter Movie Marathon, wand making, Sorting Hat activities, and more.
  • Friday (7/31) at 5:00 pm | After-Hours Ice Cream + PJ Party at National Children’s Museum ($) ♥
    • Enjoy an ice cream treat as you play your way through exhibits and dive into some special programs. Be sure to wear your favorite pjs, because who said learning adventures couldn’t be comfortable? Includes special programming like slime making & secret message doodles.

Maryland

Northern Virginia

  • Friday (7/31) at 10:30 am | Mr. Lilo at Charles E. Beatley Central Library in Alexandria (Best for ages 0-8)
    • Sing in English and Spanish, jump, and dance with Mr. Lilo and his guitar.
  • Friday (7/31) at 10:30 am | Maryland Youth Ballet “Sleeping Beauty” at Wolf Trap in Vienna ($) (Best for ages 2-12) ♥
    • This enchanting performance is the perfect way to introduce children to the art of ballet.
  • Friday (7/31) at 3:30 pm | Meet a Naturalist at Westover Library in Arlington (Best for grades K-5)
    • Talk about the types of animals that can be found right here in Arlington, how they survive and what people should do if they encounter them. They’ll also have of bunch of weird and cool hands-on items too.
  • Friday (7/31) at 4:30 pm | Find Waldo Local Celebration at Old Town Books in Alexandria ♥
    • Includes photo ops with a giant cardboard cut-out of Waldo himself, coloring pages and games, and a chance to shop our selection of Where’s Waldo books. Costumes are encouraged! 
  • Friday (7/31) at 6:00 pm | Movies @ Met: Mary Poppins Returns at Metropolitan Park in Arlington ♣
  • Friday (7/31) at 7:00 pm | Kidz Bop Live at Wolf Trap in Vienna ($) ♥
    • Featuring awesome sets, costumes, choreography, and surprises, families can sing and dance along with KIDZ BOP as they perform today’s biggest hits on stage, including “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters, “APT.,” “Pink Pony Club,” and more.
  • Friday (7/31) at 8:00 pm | Campfire Fridays at Lake Fairfax ($)
    • Explore the wonders of our natural world through nature walks, interactive activities and animal presentations. Includes s’mores.
three young boys hold up their rocket games made at Home Depot stores during the monthly kids workshop.
This Saturday (8/1), there's a Home Depot Kids Workshop in stores starting at 9:00 am. Kids can create their own rocket games for FREE. Register through the link below.
Tap here for Home Depot Kids Workshop Registration
Watermelon Day flyer.
For eighteen years Sankofa Cafe has hosted watermelon day in NW Washington DC. Get together for a celebration of summer, summer times favorite fruit, and everything RED, BLACK and GREEN. This free, family friendly event is meant to ground attendees in community while learning about health and education. Free to attend on Saturday (8/1) from 3pm - 8pm!
Tap here for Watermelon Day Info

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Washington, DC

  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | STEM2Go Monthly Take-home at Anacostia Neighborhood Library in SE ♥
    • Pick up STEM supplies in the children’s section! Each project comes with step-by-step instructions.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | First Saturday at National Gallery of Art
    • Includes face painting, play space, sketching lab, storytime, yoga, art making & more! 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | The Word and Me: Life ON and IN the Water! at the National Museum of Natural History
    • Join these professional mariners to explore the maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay, learn about traditional sailing tools, and try your hand at tying a variety of practical knots.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | The Sky Tonight: Live Planetarium Show at National Air and Space Museum 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | NMAAHC Kids Story Time: Put Your Records On! at National Museum of African American History and Culture (Best for ages 8 & younger) ♥
    • During this story children will sing and celebrate how music empowers, soothes and tells stories! Then, take a closer look at some of our favorite albums as your child learns to use a real record player, explore instruments and albums in the Musical Crossroads exhibit and make their own album art.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Summer Storytime & Face Painting at Politics and Prose on Connecticut Avenue NW ♥
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Apple Camp: Create a Superhero to Help Others on iPad at Apple Georgetown (Best for ages 6-10)
    • In this 90-minute session, kids will work together using iPad to design superheroes and send them on a mission to help others.
  • [Just Added] Saturday (8/1) at 12:00 pm | Roving Leader’s Water World at Marvin Gaye Recreation Center in NE ♥
    • A day filled with giant water attractions, foam fun, music, and more!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:00 pm | Apple Camp: Create a Superhero to Help Others on iPad at Apple Carnegie Library in NW (Best for ages 6-10)
    • In this 90-minute session, kids will work together using iPad to design superheroes and send them on a mission to help others.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 1:00 pm | Double Dutch 4 Fun with DC Retro Jumpers at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens in NE
  • Saturday (8/1) at 2:00 pm | Pop-up Program: Playtime in Colonial America at The Old Stone House at Rock Creek Park
    • It’s game on in colonial America.  Unlike today where child’s play is dominated by factory toys and high-tech gadgets, colonial kids had to make do with what they had. Stop by the pop-up to learn some games. 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 3:00 pm | Watermelon Day at Sankofa Cafe in NW ♥
    • Includes performances from Baba C, the Culture Queen, Iya Bashea & the Kuumba Kids, The CapoieraSpot DC, Dem Raider Boyze step team, Baba Bomani and hosted by Drew Anderson!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 7:00 pm | DPR Outdoor Movie Nights – Bad Guys 2 at Takoma Recreation Center in NW ♣
On Saturday (8/1), head to National Harbor for Black Books Matter Fest 2026 hosted by MahoganyBooks! Meet and greet with 50+ authors & participate in kids storytime + crafts & more. It'll be a great day to support local authors & local books. Free to attend!
Tap here for Black Books Matter Fest 2026 Info

Maryland

Prince George’s County
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Game On: Super Smash Bros. Tournament at Surratts-Clinton Library
    • Get ready for the ultimate showdown in our Super Smash Bros. Tournament! Join fellow gamers in an adrenaline-packed competition with high stakes and fierce battles.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | MahoganyBooks presents Black Books Matter Fest 2026 at National Harbor ♥
    • Meet more than 50+ authors and a host of area vendors! A major focus will include independent authors who have written a variety of works that will appeal to a host of different interests. Includes a kids craft activity & storytime! 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Airmail Tour at College Park Aviation Museum (Best for ages 8+)
    • Step back into 1918 and discover the dawn of airmail at College Park Airport! Explore the pioneering pilots, bold flights, and groundbreaking innovations that revolutionized communication in the United States.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 2:00 pm | Journey to the Center of the Earth at New Carrollton Library ♥
    • Join the Science Guys as we travel from outer space inward, to learn about the conditions that make life on Earth possible! Unearth the story of our planet through interactive experiments that explore planetary motion, the elements, changes over time, and even eruptions! 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 2:00 pm | Mindfulness Nature Hike at Clearwater Nature Center in Clinton ($) (Best for ages 2+)
    • Under the guidance of a certified mindfulness meditation teacher, you will go on a journey that deepens your connection with the natural world.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 8:00 pm | Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. with a Cabaret at Laurel Mill Playhouse ($) ♥
    • Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Maryland

Montgomery County
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Parks Playhouse Junior at Flower Avenue Park in Silver Spring (Best for ages 2-5)
    • Reading Rocks! is a high-energy comedy, bubble, and music show featuring beloved classics and original children’s songs and stories.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | All About Honeybees at Croydon Creek Nature Center in Rockville ($) (Best for ages 5+) ♥
    • Learn about the tools and gear used in beekeeping, explore hive science, and watch a live honey extraction demonstration. Honey samples will be available.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Singing for a Better World with Mr. Lilo at Aspen Hill Library ♥
    • Join Mr. Lilo for a musical adventure through song and dance, in English and Spanish!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Make & Take: Tie-Dye at Brookside Nature Center in Wheaton ($) (Best for ages 8+) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Apple Camp: Create a Superhero to Help Others on iPad at Apple Bethesda Row (Best for ages 6-10)
    • In this 90-minute session, kids will work together using iPad to design superheroes and send them on a mission to help others.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Book Tasting – Summer Reading 2026 at Rockville Memorial Library (Best for ages 3-12)
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm | Adventure Theatre’s Sleeping Beauty: The Time Traveler at Glen Echo Park ($) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:30 am & 2:30 pm | The Puppet Co. presents The Three Billy Goats Gruff at Glen Echo Park ($) (Best for ages 2+) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:45 pm | Kids: Make Your Own Emoji at Apple Montgomery Mall (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Explore using the Procreate app on iPad with Apple Pencil Pro to draw an emoji to take home.
  • [Final Weekend] Saturday (8/1) at 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm | Pete the Cat: A Live Rock Musical at Imagination Stage in Bethesda ($) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 3:00 pm | Luis Garay Percussion at White Oak Library
    • Join Luis Garay for a high energy performance that is fun and interactive – bring the whole family to enjoy together!

More Maryland Events

  • Saturday (8/1) at 9:00 am | Adopt-a-Dino Scavenger Hunt at P.D. Brown Memorial Branch Library in Waldorf (Best for ages 6+)
    • Search for the miniature dinosaur figurines hidden around the branch. When you find one, bring it to the front desk to receive your adoption certificate!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 9:00 am | Constellation Exploration at La Plata Branch Library 
    • Explore the library on a constellation hunt and discover the stories written in the stars!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Reptile World at Potomac Branch Library in Indian Head ♥
    • Meet and learn about all sorts of cool reptiles!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm | Circus Vazquez at Arundel Mills in Hanover ($)
    • Experience high-flying trapeze, incredible acrobatics, juggling, and more under the Big Top.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 3:00 pm | Reptile World at Waldorf West Branch Library in Indian Head ♥
    • Meet and learn about all sorts of cool reptiles!
The Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association (FVFEA) holds its annual Firehouse Festival each year on the first Saturday in August in Alexandria, VA. Head to the 100 block of South Alfred Street in Old Town for fire trucks, live music, local vendors, food and beverages, children's activities, and community exhibits. Admission is free!
Tap here for Friendship Firehouse Festival Info

Northern Virginia

Arlington County
  • Saturday (8/1) at 9:00 am | Dark Star Park Day 2026
    • Saturday, Aug. 1, at approximately 9:32 a.m., Nancy Holt’s Dark Star Park (1979-84) will perform a special effect. Shadows cast by the spheres and poles of this landmark outdoor sculpture align with their permanent forms on the ground, marking the moment of Rosslyn’s founding.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:15 am | I Dig American Sign Language with Kathy MacMillan at Mount Vernon Recreation Center in Alexandria (Best for ages 0-5) ♥
    • Dig deep and learn basic American Sign Language for dinosaurs, diggers, and the things we love through stories, songs, and more! Also, at 11:15 am!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Seed Story & Craft at Shirlington Library
    • Learn about seed vaults, locations in the world where seeds are kept safe for the future. Read a story about one seed vault and make your own mini seed vault to take home with some seeds to get you started.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Apple Camp: Create a Superhero to Help Others on iPad at Apple Clarendon (Best for ages 6-10)
    • In this 90-minute session, kids will work together using iPad to design superheroes and send them on a mission to help others.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Family Brunch Baking Basics: Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage at Cookology ($) (Best for ages 8+) ♥
    • Learn valuable brunch baking basics in this hands-on baking class. Start off your afternoon with flakey, delicious, homemade buttermilk biscuits. Top them off with smooth sausage gravy. Finish off your day with a mix of sweet and savory flavors with small berry hand pies. 

Northern Virginia

City of Alexandria
  • Saturday (8/1) at 9:00 am | Friendship Firehouse Festival at the Friendship Firehouse Museum ♥
    • Learn about fire safety today, and yesterday, and see Alexandria Fire Department equipment up close. There will be booths by the Alexandria Police Department and Sheriff’s Office, music performances, displays by community organizations, local vendors, and food and beverage sales. Join in water play and please-touch artifact activities. Children will receive free toy Friendship firefighting helmets.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:00 pm | Carlyle House Family Fun Day: Friendship Day (Best for ages 5+) ♥
    • Sit in on story time and participate in crafts and other activities that relate to friendship day! 
mom and daughter play with legos at the LEGO Discovery Center.
August is Teacher Appreciation Month at LEGO Discovery Center in Springfield, VA. Teachers will receive FREE entry plus 30% off for their friends and family-up to six (6) guests. Purchase in advance to reserve your time slot.
Tap here for LEGO Discovery Center Info

Arts in the Park in Northern Virginia ♥

  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | 10:00 am | the grandsons, jr. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park in Chantilly
    • The grandsons, jr., is the kids’ band version of DC-area roots rock superstars, The Grandsons. Kids and their parents will dig the upbeat mix of rock, swing, New Orleans R&B, country, and Latin music.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Rocknoceros at Lorton Community Center
    • Infectious melodies, playful humor, and family-friendly rock sound.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Marsha and the Positrons at Wakefield Park/Audrey Moore Rec Center at Annandale
    • Specializing in fun songs about science & how the world works with positive social messages! Sing and dance along to songs that inspire curiosity about science and bring smiles to all ages.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | La Musica – A World of Encanto with JChris at Spring Hill Recreation Center in McLean
    • Kids will sing, play percussion instruments and learn about Latin rhythms with music from Disney films like Coco, Saludos Amigos and Encanto.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Blue Sky Puppet Theatre at The Rooftop Park Space in Springfield
    • Blue Sky Puppet Theatre is proud to present “”Rufus””, a funny and faced paced show with an adorable main character. Families with children of all ages will love this charming story about acceptance and kindness.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | The Great Zucchini at Burke Lake Park in Fairfax
    • The wonder of magic, silliness of comedy, and interactive nature of The Great Zucchini’s show keeps children on the edge of their seats.
Head to Manassas, VA on Saturday (8/1) for the 2026 Manassas African American Heritage Festival happening at Metz Middle School. Over the years this festival has grown to include more than 125 exhibitors, including arts and crafts dealers, retailers of African Wares, youth groups, colleges and school exhibits, Health Fair, Business and Job Expos, Classic Car Show and great food vendors. FREE to attend!
Tap here for Festival Info!

More Northern Virginia Events

  • Saturday (8/1) at 8:00 am | Fishing for Parent and Child at Lake Accotink in Springfield ($) (Best for ages 5+)
    • Learn how to fish alongside your parent or child as you enjoy the scenery around the lake. Gain a better understanding on how to rig and use a fishing rod, how to safely fish, and how we can be environmentally conscious while we fish. Rod and bait will be provided.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Snakes Secret Lives at Lake Accotink in Springfield ($) (Best for ages 5+)
    • Explore the remarkable adaptations and behaviors of these specialized predators through hands-on encounters with non-venomous snake ambassadors. Discover the sophisticated hunting strategies, sensory capabilities and ecological roles that makes this reptiles masters of evolutionary design.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:30 am | Maryland Youth Ballet “Sleeping Beauty” at Wolf Trap in Vienna ($) (Best for ages 2-12) ♥
    • This enchanting performance is the perfect way to introduce children to the art of ballet.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Manassas African American Heritage Festival ♥
    • Admission is free and features music, entertainment, dances, gospel choirs, vendors, exhibits, food, art, crafts, history, classic car show, children’s games, and free school supplies.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 6:30 pm | Tangled at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly ♣
    • Drive-in movie! 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 7:30 pm | Taiwan Cultural Heritage Night ‘Hai Hua Community Center’ at Ossian Hall Park in Annandale
    • Cultural Arts in the Parks: Enjoy the exotic and diverse beauty of Taiwanese culture, dance and music.
Pete the Cat the live rock musical actors pose with a boy and girl.
Last chance weekend to catch Pete the Cat: A Live Rock Musical at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, MD! Tap the image above to read our review & purchase tickets.
Tap here for ticket info!

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Washington, DC 

  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | Story Time with Deanwood Neighborhood Library at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens in NE ♥
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | Free Community Day at National Museum of Women in the Arts 
  • Sunday (8/2) at 11:00 am | Storytime with Jo Pittman for “Sandy Writes Her Story” at Loyalty Books Petworth in NW
    • This adorable children’s book champions self expression and diversity, helping kids learn about different invisible illnesses, and what it is like to share your story with bright illustrations and fun animal companions. 
  • Sunday (8/2) at 6:00 pm | SpyKids Mission Training at Volta Park Pool in NW ($)
    • During SpyKids Mission Training your SpyKid will be guided through Georgetown to learn about the many spies who once traded secrets for cash (and still do). Along the way you will learn about how spies secretly communicate, what motivates a spy to spy, and the role bananas had in overthrowing a government. You will also have to read signals, create concealment devices, decode secret messages, and load a dead drop. 

Maryland

Northern Virginia

  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | SPARK! Not Your Usual Art Market in Shirlington 
    • SPARK! is a fun inclusive outdoor market with handpicked art and food vendors, and programming including poetry, music and art making.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | Mommy/Daddy & Me: Sweetheart Tea Party at Cookology in Arlington ($) (Best for ages 4-7) ♥
    • Little chefs will mix a bubbly Pink Raspberry Fizz, create adorable heart-shaped tea sandwiches, and decorate strawberry shortcake cupcakes. Kids will practice spreading, assembling, mixing, and decorating while enjoying quality time with their grown-up helper.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | Arts in the Park featuring One Mic Many Voices with Uncle Ty-Rone at Strawberry Park at the Mosaic in Fairfax ♥
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:30 am | STEMusic at Lubber Run Amphitheater in Arlington ♥
    • The mission of STEMusic is to inspire the next generation of multicultural STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) professionals through engaging and entertaining music. Roy thoroughly enjoys making this music that teaches students about STEM right where they are.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:30 am | Furry Foxes at Burke Lake Park in Fairfax ($) (Best for ages 3-8)
    • These wild members of the dog family are a common sight in our neighborhoods. Learn about their lives through activities and practice yipping like a fox.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:30 am | Maryland Youth Ballet “Sleeping Beauty” at Wolf Trap in Vienna ($) (Best for ages 2-12) ♥
    • This enchanting performance is the perfect way to introduce children to the art of ballet.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 12:00 pm | Kiddo Rave at Shipgarten in McLean 
  • Sunday (8/2) at 2:00 pm | Summer Engineering Challenge at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale ($) (Best for ages 6-11) ♥
    • Use your critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities to engineer a solution for our secret seasonal challenge. Attack the design problem and work within the criteria and constraints to see if you can come up with the best solution.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 2:30 pm | Kids: Create an Interactive Story of Kindness at Apple Clarendon (Best for ages 6-10)
    • Imagine what kindness means to you and your family by making your own interactive storybook on iPad.

Sensory Friendly & Accessible

  • Friday (7/31) at 9:00 am | Sensory-Friendly Time at Cub Recreation Center Indoor Water Park in Chantilly, VA ($)
  • Friday (7/31) at 10:30 am | Sensory Playtime at Southwest Neighborhood Library in DC 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:15 am | I Dig American Sign Language with Kathy MacMillan at Mount Vernon Recreation Center in Alexandria, VA (Best for ages 0-5)
    • Dig deep and learn basic American Sign Language for dinosaurs, diggers, and the things we love through stories, songs, and more! Also, at 11:15 am!
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:30 am | The Puppet Co. presents The Three Billy Goats Gruff at Glen Echo Park in MD ($) (Best for ages 2+) 
    • ASL interpreted performance! 
  • Sunday (8/2) at 10:00 am | Sensory Sunday at the National Museum of Railroad History and Innovation in Baltimore, MD ($)
    • Features environmental accommodations—such as no music, low lighting, quiet areas, and extra signage for sound effects—along with sensory-friendly activities like train rides and tours. Guests also have access to helpful resources, including sensory kits, social stories, and a community table.

For Tweens & Teens

Washington, DC

  • Friday (7/31) at 1:00 pm | Friday Movie: Michael at Southwest Neighborhood Library ♣
  • Friday (7/31) at 5:00 pm, 6:00 pm & 7:00 pm | Teen Night at the Museum of Illusions in NW ♥
    • Registration required! 
  • Friday (7/31) at 7:00 pm | Late Night Hype at Emery Heights Community Center in NW (Best for ages 13-18)
    • RSVP required! Includes orange‑themed games, resource booths, glow dance battles, and fun challenges.
  • Friday (7/31) – Sunday (8/2) | Otakon 2026 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center ($) ♥
    • Celebrate Asian pop culture (anime, manga, music, movies, video games, etc) and its fandom.  
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:00 am | Kente Weaving Workshop for Kids at Sankofa Cafe in NW (Best for ages 10-15) ♥
    • Young participants will learn the art and history of traditional Kente weaving in a creative and hands on environment.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:00 pm | Project Create at Palisades Neighborhood Library in NW ♥
    • Teaching artists from Project Create come to the library to teach arts and crafts to tweens and teens.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:00 pm | Crochet Kingpin: Wearable Art at Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum
    • Participants will learn the basics of Crocheting and have an opportunity to practice chains, single crochet, and double crochet.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 1:30 pm | Kids: Make a Theme Song at Apple Georgetown (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Create a theme song for a favorite show, book, or game using GarageBand on iPad.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 1:30 pm | Kids: Make Your Own Emoji at Apple Carnegie Library in NW (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Explore using the Procreate app on iPad with Apple Pencil Pro to draw an emoji to take home.

Maryland

  • Friday (7/31) at 2:00 pm | Mario Kart Tournament at Potomac Library (Best for grades 6-12) 
    • Mario Kart 8 tournament for tweens & teens!
  • Friday (7/31) at 4:30 pm | Wizard School: Calling all Harry Potter Fans! at Long Branch Library in Silver Spring (Best for ages 13-18) 
    • A magical Harry Potter Trivia Challenge to see how much you know about spells, magical creatures, Hogwarts houses, unforgettable characters, and more. Come dressed in your favorite wizarding attire if you’d like!
  • Friday (7/31) & Saturday (8/1) | Community Center Teen Nights in PG County 
  • Friday (7/31) – Sunday (8/2) | Toby’s Dinner Theatre presents: Mean Girls in Columbia ($) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Adv. Seekers: Brookside Gardens ($) (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Meets at Mount Rainier Nature Center 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Youth Aviators Air Traffic Control at College Park Aviation Museum (Best for ages 13-18) ♥
    • 4 week series! Participants will learn the phonetic alphabet and real radio lingo, explore essential procedures and protocols, and gain insights from industry professionals who keep our skies safe. 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 12:45 pm | Kids: Make Your Own Emoji at Apple Montgomery Mall (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Explore using the Procreate app on iPad with Apple Pencil Pro to draw an emoji to take home.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 2:00 pm | Book Tasting – Summer Reading 2026 at Rockville Memorial Library (Best for ages 12-18) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 2:00 pm | Game On: Mystery Puzzle at Hillcrest Heights Library in Temple Hills
    • Enjoy a classic mystery with a unique twist. Follow a fun narrated story and use its audible clues to assemble the puzzle and solve the mystery.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 3:00 pm | Kids: Make Your Own Emoji at Apple Bethesda Row (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Explore using the Procreate app on iPad with Apple Pencil Pro to draw an emoji to take home.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 1:00 pm | Kids: Make a Theme Song at Apple Bethesda Row (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Create a theme song for a favorite show, book, or game using GarageBand on iPad.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 1:45 pm | Kids: Make a Theme Song at Apple Montgomery Mall (Best for ages 8-12)
    • Create a theme song for a favorite show, book, or game using GarageBand on iPad.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 2:00 pm | Trivia: Declaration of Independence at Bladensburg Library (Best for teens & adults)
    • Join the fun, compete with others, and discover interesting facts along the way. Will you take the top spot?

Northern Virginia

  • Friday (7/31) at 1:00 pm | Summer at the Rec at Arlington Mill Community Center
    • This free, drop-in summer program provides a daily hot lunch (that’s actually good) and activities chosen by teens like music, games, cooking, art, and sports. Learn new skills at our weekly DJ and Music Production classes, game with friends in our state of the art esports lounge, get some energy out in the gym, or enjoy a space just to chill and be yourself.
  • Friday (7/31) at 2:30 pm | Brick and Chill: Teen LEGO Hangout at Glencarlyn Library (Best for grades 6-12) 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 10:00 am | Intro to Kayaking at Lake Fairfax in Reston ($) (Best for ages 12+)
    • Learn about different kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and safety gear. On the water learn to move the boat in every direction using different strokes and maneuvers.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 11:30 am | The Life of a Book: Creating Seed Paper at Aurora Hills Library (Best for teens & adults) ♥
    • Using paper pulp made from recycled books, make your own paper from start to finish. With a few color options and plenty of wildflower seeds, everyone can personalize their paper page. 
  • Saturday (8/1) at 1:00 pm | Kids: Code Your First App at Apple Pentagon City (Best for ages 10+)
    • Code and create as a family with Swift Playground using iPad.
  • Saturday (8/1) at 3:00 pm | Kids: Learn to Code with Swift Playground at Apple Pentagon City (Best for ages 12+) ♥
    • In this 60-minute session, learn how to get started with coding using Swift Playground.
  • Sunday (8/2) at 9:00 am | Nature Charms at Burke Lake Park in Fairfax ($) (Best for ages 9+) ♥
    • Join a naturalist to learn how to preserve nature by creating resin pendants encapsulating small natural specimens. Discover how to responsibly select natural materials, while also learning how to use resin to make your own natural charm.

This Week's Book Recommendation

I Am Sheriauna - Book 1: We are Beautiful book cover.
Did you know the month of July is Disability Pride Month? It marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was passed in July of 1990! Throughout the month, I'll be spotlighting books that celebrate disability, inclusion, and the unique qualities that make every child who they are. This week's book, "I Am Sheriauna" is a two part series written by Sherylee Honeyghan. "Learn about one little girl's experience with being different and how we can all be kind to each other, while creating a more inclusive world for everybody." Purchase this book on Amazon for $10.95!
Tap here to purchase this book on Amazon [Affiliate]

Related Blogs

More Kid-Friendly Things-to-do...

Check out this list of recurring kid-friendly things-to-do for each day of the week. Most activities are free or low cost! This list is reviewed & updated frequently so make sure to bookmark it for future reference.
Tap to See Daily Events & Activities

Just Updated | DMV Movie Screenings

New, free movie screenings just added to our running list linked below. You'll find outdoor movies that are mostly free in DC, Maryland & Northern Virginia
Tap here to see Summer Movies
Updated

Follow Us on:

Instagram Facebook

Subscribe and be the first to know about our latest deals, new activities, blog posts and more.

at 4DMVKids on Instagram and on Facebook

Work with Us in promoting your next DMV-based kid-friendly event! 

Scroll to Top