Summer

Ultimate Guide to Kids Summer Camps in Washington, DC

January 6, 2025

We are grateful to our 2025 summer camp sponsor; Camp Arena Stage and our partners; Steve & Kate’s Camp, Adventure Theatre and Imagination Stage. This guide is packed with unforgettable adventures, creative activities, and enriching experiences to make this summer the best one yet! Registrations have started at most camps so enjoy finding the one best for your Bambinos and register soon.

Camp Arena Stage
Hosted on the beautiful grounds of Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, Camp Arena Stage is a multi-arts full-day summer camp for ages 8 to 15. A place to explore, discover, and create.

Campers choose their own schedules from activities in theater, music, visual arts, dance, filmmaking, writing and more, such as acting for the camera, hip-hop dance, musical theater, publishing the Camp Arena Stage newspaper, filming movie trailers and painting — all taught by professional artists and educators. It’s the perfect place to try something for the first time or take current skills to the next level. The skilled staff at Camp Arena Stage is dedicated to seeing, recognizing, and appreciating each individual for who they are and the art only they can make.

Campers and staff alike enjoy Camp Arena Stage because it brings together a diverse group of people who share a love of the arts to create a joyful community — hear what they have to say. Visit the Camp Arena Stage website to learn more and register today.

Camp Arena Stage has 2 sessions of camp this summer. The sessions are; 3-week session: July 7 – July 25 and 2-week session: July 28 – August 8.

Steve and Kate’s Camp
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s Camp has put kids in charge. Campers choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, stop-motion, coding, sports & recreation, maker crafts, and more. And there’s plenty of perks for grown-ups too. Families can attend for a day, the entire summer, or anything in between. There’s no weekly sessions or reservations required. Any unused Passes are automatically refunded at summer’s end. Lunch, snacks, & all hours (8am–6pm) included. Camps are in DC, Maryland for children ages 4–12 and in Virginia for children ages 5–12.

Adventure Theatre
Watch your child take the stage with their friends in a two-week, full day, in-person camp that culminates in a delightful ensemble performance for rising grades 1–6! Located in Glen Echo Park. Experience theater in a fun, full-day camp for grades 1–6. Your child will work alongside accomplished D.C. area theatre professionals and teaching artists during daily rehearsals in dancing, singing, and acting. With props and costumes, music, movement, and scene-work, your child’s experience will culminate in a performance of a full, youth-appropriate show for friends and family. Please note that students are grouped with their peers, and casting is at the discretion of the director. Please Note: Campers will need to attend the full session in order to best participate. They are offering a second early bird promotion; register by January 31 and receive $50 off.

Imagination Stage
Imagination Stage camps provide fun, accessible, and immersive summer experiences in acting, musical theatre, dance, and filmmaking for young artists ages 4 through 18. Camps range from full scale productions and the making of short films, to classroom settings that explore specialty themes. Younger campers can pick from titles such as Treasure Trunk Theatre or Musical Theatre Magic. Older campers can explore theatrical subjects like Stand-Up Comedy, Playwriting, Improvisation, and Dance. Older campers can be part of our Intensives at American University. This year’s production titles for campers spanning grades 2-9 include Annie KIDS, 101 Dalmatians, Once Upon a Mattress, and Footloose. We’ve even got some Taylor Swift themes this summer! Spend a week with us, or your whole summer – each week brings something new to add to your theatrical toolkit.

Imagination Stage provides equitable access to all summer programming with financial aid options as well as added inclusion supports in order to provide the most successful experience for each camper. When registering, please share with us how we can make your child’s experience as accessible as possible. They want your child’s summer with Imagination Stage to be a great one!

Theater, movement & creativity camps:
Adventure Theatre Camps: Glen Echo, MD
Arts on the Horizon: Alexandria, VA
Bach 2 Rock: Locations throughout DMV
Camp Arena Stage: NW, DC
Camp Levine: NW, DC, SE, DC, Bethesda, MD & Falls Church, VA
Camp Shakespeare: NW, DC
Dance & Gymnastics camps
Encore Stage: Arlington, VA
Girls Rock!: NPR Headquarters
Imagination Stage: Bethesda, MD
Keegan Theatre: NW, DC
The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts: NW, DC
Theater J Summer Musical Theater Camp: NW, DC
Traveling Players Ensemble: Tysons, VA
Young Artists of America: Bethesda, MD

Sports camps:
Bethesda Big Train Baseball: Bethesda, MD
Boating is Fun Camp: Key Bridge Boathouse
Breathing Space Kids Yoga: Capitol Hill, DC
Brit-Am Soccer: Bethesda, MD
Capitol City Circus School: SE, DC
Camp Olympia: Rockville, MD
Circle Yoga: NW, DC
CP Basketball Academy: Olney & Colesville, MD
Dance & Gymnastics camps
DC Fencers Club: Silver Spring, MD
DC Way: SE & NE, DC
Flag Star Football: Locations throughout DMV
Home Run Baseball Camp: NW, DC
HoopEd: Locations throughout DMV
Kids Elite Sports Camp: NW, DC
Koa: Bethesda, MD
My Gym (Camp starts at age 3): Potomac, MD
Nationals Baseball/Softball Day & Overnight Camp: Locations throughout DMV
Next Level Lacrosse: Bethesda, MD
Nike Tennis Camp: GW University
Pedalheads: Alexandria, VA, Bethesda, MD & DC
PPA: NW, DC & Bethesda, MD
Summer at Sienna (Basketball): Silver Spring, MD
Squash on Fire: NW, DC
The St. James: Northern, VA
TopGolf: National Harbor, MD & Gaithersburg, MD
Top Rank Soccer Academy: Potomac, MD
Trapeze School: SE, DC
Urban Evolution: Alexandria, VA
Virginia Outside/Fishing Adventures: Northern VA

Building, coding, educational, STEM & technology camps:
Apple Camp: Locations throughout DMV
ASDEC for Children: Silver Spring, MD & Herndon, VA
ClubSciKidz: Montgomery County
Code Ninjas: Alexandria, VA
Code WizardsHQ: Virtual
iCode Camp: The St. James
idTech: American University, Marymount University & University of Baltimore
KID Museum: Bethesda, MD
Lavner Camp: George Washington University Foxhall & Mount Vernon Campus
Mad Science Summer Camp: Locations throughout DMV
Summer at Sienna: Silver Spring, MD
Summer Discovery: Georgetown University
The Lab School Summer: NW, DC

Art camps:
All Fired Up: Bethesda, MD & NW, DC
Anna Banana Arts & Crafts: NW, DC
Creative Youth Sewing: Bethesda, MD
Red Panda Art Studio: Bethesda, MD
Strathmore Art Camp: Bethesda, MD
The Loft Collective: Takoma Park, MD

Multi-interest camps:
Adventure Links Day & Overnight Camp: Northern VA
Adventures on the Hill: Capitol Hill, DC & Takoma Park, DC
Aiden’s Village of Choice Summer: NW, DC
Audubon Naturalist Society: Chevy Chase, MD
Beauvoir Summer: NW, DC
Calleva Outdoor Adventure Camp: Poolesville, MD & Great Falls, VA
Camp Aristotle at The Auburn School: Silver Spring, MD & Chantilly, VA
Camp Sonshine: Silver Spring & Germantown, MD
CCBC (Camp starting at age 2): NW, DC
Clara Barton Center for Children (Camp for ages 2-5): Cabin John, MD
Cleveland Park Club: NW, DC
CommuniKids Language Immersion (Camp starting at age 2.5): NW, DC & Falls Church, VA
Concord Hill School Preschool Camp: Chevy Chase, MD
Congressional Camp: Falls Church, VA
Creative Summer at Holtan Arms: Bethesda, MD
Edlavitch DCJCC Camp: NW, DC
Headfirst Summer Camp: NW & NE, DC, Bethesda, MD, & VA
Henry’s Sweet Retreat: Bethesda, MD
Landon Summer: Bethesda, MD
Little Burgundy Farm Horse Camp: Alexandria, VA
Lowell School Camp: NW, DC
Meadowbrook Stables: Chevy Chase, MD
Potomac School: McLean, VA
Rock Creek Park Horse Center: NW, DC
Sidwell Summer: NW, DC & Bethesda, MD
Smithsonian Summer Camp: Washington, DC
Steve and Kates Camp: NW DC, Alexandria, VA & Potomac, MD
Stone Ridge Camp (Includes middle school enrichment also): Bethesda, MD
Summer at Burke (6th-12th grade): NW, DC
Summer at Georgetown Day School: NW DC
Summer at Norwood: Bethesda, MD
Summer at Sandy Spring: Sandy Spring, MD
Summer Horizons Day Camp at NPS: NW, DC
Summertimes: Alexandria, VA
Urban Adventure Squad: NW, DC
Valley Mill Camp: Germantown, MD
Washington Episcopal School: Bethesda, MD
Woodland Horse Center: Silver Spring, MD
YMCA Camps Day camp and overnight options: Locations throughout DMV

County camps:
Arlington County Summer Camps
Fairfax County Park Authority Summer Camps
Montgomery County Parks & Recreation Summer Camps
Washington, DC Parks & Recreation Summer Camps

Sunflower Fields to Visit Near Washington, DC

July 27, 2024

Summer in Washington, DC, brings an array of outdoor activities, but one of the most stunning ways to soak up the season’s beauty is by visiting sunflower fields. Sunflower fields around Washington, DC, offer a perfect summer outing for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to bask in the beauty of these cheerful blooms. Each spot provides its own unique experience, from expansive fields to interactive farm fun. So grab your camera, pack a picnic, and head out to enjoy the sunflower magic this summer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s your guide to the best sunflower spots around Washington, DC this summer.

1. McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area

Located just about 30 miles west of DC, the McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville, Maryland, is a must-visit for sunflower enthusiasts. Each summer, the fields are transformed into a sea of bright yellow sunflowers, stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is known for its expansive sunflower fields, which are a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. The sunflowers typically bloom from mid-July through early August, so plan your visit accordingly to catch them at their peak.

2. Butler’s Orchard

A bit closer to the city, Butler’s Orchard in Germantown, Maryland, offers a charming sunflower experience. This family-owned farm has been growing sunflowers for several years and opens its fields to the public during peak bloom. In addition to sunflowers, Butler’s Orchard hosts various family-friendly activities throughout the summer, including farm tours and pick-your-own produce events. The sunflower fields are usually open from late July through August, making it a great spot for a summer day trip.

3. The Sunflower Farm at Great Country Farms

For a more interactive experience, head to Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia. Known for its agricultural adventures, this farm features a beautiful sunflower field that typically opens in late July. The farm offers various activities like hayrides, a petting zoo, and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, making it a fun destination for the whole family.

4. Fields of Sunflowers at Burnside Farms

Located in Nokesville, Virginia, Burnside Farms is renowned for its impressive sunflower displays. Their sunflower festival, usually held in late July through August, is a highlight of the season. The farm hosts a variety of sunflowers, including different colors and sizes, providing a diverse and picturesque experience. With additional activities like a maze and food vendors, it’s a great spot for a day out with the family.

5. Historic Whitehall Farm

A bit of a hidden gem, Historic Whitehall Farm in Clinton, Maryland, offers a more tranquil sunflower experience. This smaller farm opens its fields to visitors during peak bloom, typically in late July. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle.

Tips:

Check their website or social media for visiting hours and sunflower bloom updates.
Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
It’s a good idea to bring cash or check for entrance fees, as some smaller farms don’t accept cards.
Bring your camera for some memorable family photos.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there’s a lot of ground to cover.
Pack some snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
Arrive early to make the most of your visit and enjoy a less crowded experience.
Bring sun protection and stay hydrated as you explore the fields.

A Few Farms Further Away to Consider:
Gold Petal Farms: A picture-perfect flower field season opens with 100% pick-your-own flower fields! 7 acres of flowers to explore and select from with beautiful flower vistas to take unique and beautiful portraits along with a wealth of nature photography opportunities.
The Sunflower Garden
Misty Meadow Farm Creamery: Reader recommended with animals, ice cream and activities!
Emily’s Produce: You-pick fields, ice cream, market and more, happens to be on the way to the beach!
Clear Meadow Farms
Rocky Point Creamery: Ice cream + sunflowers. The even better part is 100% of proceeds from the sunflowers go to St. Jude.

Fourth of July Celebrations in Washington, DC

July 2, 2024

Have a safe and fun Independence Day celebrating in the most perfect place; the Nation’s Capital if you are in town!

Washington Nationals are in town Tuesday-Monday. There will be Freedom Fireworks on Wednesday & the Patriotic Series on Thursday.

9:00am-5:00pm: An American Celebration at Mount Vernon
Celebrate our nation’s independence at the home of the father of our country. During this patriotic event: Watch made-for-daytime fireworks and observe a moving ceremony in which people from across the world become U.S. citizens. Concessions will be available all day from: Mount Vernon Inn Food Truck on 12-acre Field and Half Crown Bakehouse on 12-acre Field.

9:30am-1:00pm: Family Day: Summer Party at the Capital Jewish Museum
Join us at CJM before the fireworks for specialty crafts, music, food, and fun. Learn about Jewish Revolutionary War history from our friends at National Museum of American Jewish Military History. Connect and celebrate a tradition for your home with mezuzah activities brought to you by MyZuzah. We’ll also have themed crafts and activities in the Community Action Lab, and classic outdoor games and music on our newly opened 3rd floor terrace. Plus, build a goodie bag to enjoy during the fireworks!

9:45am-11:00am: Kensington’s 29th Annual Bike Parade
Decorate your bikes, scooters, wagons, anything & join the parade or watch it go by.

10:00am-7:00pm: National Archives Family Event
The National Archives will hold its annual Fourth of July program featuring prominent speakers, musical performances, and family activities to celebrate the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. This family event is free and open to the public. Seating on the Constitution Avenue steps is available on a first-come, first-seated basis.Ceremony: 10 a.m.–11 a.m. Family activities: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. & Exhibits (including the original Declaration of Independence): 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

10:00am: The 21st annual Capitol Hill Community 4th of July Parade
This is a local tradition that is considered one of Washington, DC’s best events. We are pleased to announce that we’ll be able to hold our traditional parade on Capitol Hill’s Barracks Row this year. Get your groups together and join in on the fun!

10:00am: Takoma Park July 4th Parade
Head to Takoma Park for another parade that has become a tradition. The parade will begin at Ethan Allen & Carroll Aves, travel down Carroll Ave (becoming Carroll St NW), turn right at Maple St NW (becoming Maple Ave), and travel down Maple Ave to end at Ritchie Ave.

11:00am: 58th Annual Palisades Parade
Your kids will bring home tons of candy, bring a bag! The parade starts at the intersection of Whitehaven Pkwy and MacArthur Blvd at 11:00am sharp. The parade turns right onto MacArthur, continues past Dana Place, then takes a left on Edmunds, a left on Sherier, and ends at the Palisades Rec Center.

11:45am: The National Independence Day Parade
Held annually in Washington, DC. Invited bands and participants come together every year for this patriotic, flag-waving, red white and blue celebration of America’s birthday! Along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street before a street audience of hundreds of thousands of spectators. The Parade consists of invited bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military and specialty units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams, VIP’s, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants. The Parade is a major national event which seeks to draw the attention of Americans to the real meaning for the holiday. It is a patriotic, flag-waving, red white and blue celebration of America’s birthday!

12:00pm-Dusk: Frederick’s 4th
Celebrate the largest Independence Day celebration in Frederick County with two stages of entertainment alongside family-friendly rides, activities, food, and fireworks from noon to dusk.

3:00pm-10:00pm: Historic Manassas Celebrates America
Ring in the 4th of July with a vibrant celebration in the heart of Historic Downtown Manassas. Enjoy family-friendly activities and the best firework display in Northern Virginia! It’s an all-American party celebrating the spirit of our nation in this charming city. Starting at 3 p.m., there will be games and rides for kids, face painting, 4th of July memorabilia, plus food and craft vendors. Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty will be visiting as well. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to get your best seats on the Manassas Museum Lawn and beyond! Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

4:00pm-9:30pm: Celebration at the Armed Forces Retirement Home
In it’s thirteenth year, the annual gathering hosts food trucks, children’s games, and a perfect view from the golf course to watch the National Mall fireworks display. FOSH provides a bounce house and obstacle course for children, and a contest for most patriotic outfit at the Bike Parade. Adults mingle and enjoy food and drink while listening to the Home’s resident DJ, Billy White, spin top tunes. Best of all, a record number of residents of the Soldiers Home join in the celebration!

5:00pm-10:00pm: Fourth at the Wharf
The Wharf is going country for the Fourth of July! Celebrate the Fourth at The Wharf with free live country music from 5-9pm throughout our outdoor stages. Grab food to-go from a Wharf restaurant then head to District Pier where you can play games, sip on ice cold drinks from the bar and enjoy spectacular views of the National Park Service fireworks launched from the Lincoln Memorial.

5:00pm-10:30pm: Fourth of July in the District Concert
Join Mayor Muriel Bowser, the United States Air Force Band, Events DC, and the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment for the second annual 4th of July in the District Concert featuring performances by the United States Air Force Band with Gavin Degraw and more acts to follow with live broadcast nationally on CNN. There will be family friendly activites , food trucks and more. The concert is free and seating is first come, first serve.

6:00pm-9:00pm: Takoma Park Evening Street Party
Join your friends and neighbors for an evening of Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer & Wine Garden (Takoma Bev Co.), Kids’ Activities with Let’s Play America and more!

8:00pm-9:30: A Capital Fourth Concert
This star-studded salute to Independence Day is broadcast live from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol and is free and open to the public. Gates open at 3 p.m.

9:09pm-9:27pm: Fireworks on the National Mall
The National Park Service will once again host the annual Independence Day fireworks celebration on the National Mall, the nation’s most important civic space and home to more than a dozen memorials that commemorate great Americans and significant events in our nation’s history. The display will be held on Thursday, July 4, starting at 9:09 p.m. and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

Other viewing areas for the Mall fireworks–
U.S. Capitol
Lincoln Memorial
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
The White House Ellipse
West Potomac Park
East Potomac Park
Anacostia Park
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
George Washington Memorial Parkway
Watch from the water on a cruise: Embark DC Boat Tours, City Cruises and Monumental Boat Tours
Grab a rooftop reservation at The Pendry Wharf, VUE Rooftop at the W Hotel or at Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel are a few!
Hop on a bike and head to Mt. Vernon Trail, Hains Point or Cardoza High School.

Recent posts–
Water toys that are a summer must have!
Device free road trips and flights
Pick your own fruits and vegetables
Ice Cream Shops in the DMV

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

June 7, 2024

Celebrate Pride this month and every month. Click this link to discover all of the events happening in our area. This weekend is the Pride Parade and Block Party & Sunday is the Pride Festival and Concert. Summer is here and we’ve got the posts to keep your sweet tooth satisfied, your Bambinos active, a cure for hot afternoons, and much more!

**Pride Poster Making at The Loft Collective**

All weekend
31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest is coming June 7-9, 2024! Held each year during Black Music Month since 1993, the Capital Jazz Fest is one of the longest running festivals in the DMV and one of the premier black music events in the country, featuring over 30 acts over three days. In-between musical sets, enjoy the juried craft vendors at the Festival Marketplace, culinary treats at the food courts, and interactive Q&A sessions with the artists.

The Big Bounce America is the largest touring inflatable event in the world and it’s in our area until Sunday! They’ve created an action-packed day out suitable for all ages and featuring some of the most unique and exciting custom-built inflatable attractions ever made.

Saturday
10:00am-6:00pm: Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair
The fair features local and regional artisans who showcase their pieces across various mediums including pottery, stationary, fabrics, paintings, jewelry, photography and more. Over 80+ vendors along with food and drink for purchase.

11:00am-3:00pm: Wisconsin Avenue Baptist Church’s third annual Community Day
There will be a bounce house, face painting, and outdoor games for kids. Live music will be performed under a large tent, featuring Brazilian music and other musical styles favored by WABC’s music team and friends. There will also be food served fresh off the grill as well as ethnic dishes made by people in our congregation. Located at 3920 Alton Pl NW, Washington, DC 20016

11:00am-1:00pm: Grow the Garden Party at the US Arboretum
Join for a picnic party! Come celebrate the expansion of FONA’s Washington Youth Garden. The Washington Youth Garden has a beautiful new honeycomb fence around it that expands our growing space and makes our garden more inviting, visible, and accessible.

11:30am-3:00pm: Workshop and Resource Fair for DMV Area Youth at The Kennedy Center
Tailored specifically for high school-aged youth (14-18 years old) in the DMV area, this workshop and resource fair aims to create a safe and engaging environment for young individuals to learn and develop as they approach adulthood. Onsite vendors from the DMV area will be available to assist and answer any questions from students in various fields, helping them prepare for their next steps after high school. Exciting activities such as a 5th grade DJ, video game truck, rock climbing wall, and a selection of summer-themed snacks including popcorn, cotton candy, and icees will be provided. Additionally, the KC Youth Council will be leading self-led workshops focused on dance, music, and poetry, and an anti-bullying presentation will take place in the afternoon.

1:00pm-3:00pm: Pride Poster Making at The Loft Collective
Create posters for the Pride Parade. Art supplies & posters will be provided, first come first serve

2:00pm-10:00pm: Pride on the Pier
The Washington Blade in partnership with LURe DC and The Wharf are excited to announce the 5th Annual Pride on the Pier celebration during DC Pride in June 2024. Pride on the Pier extends the city’s annual celebration of LGBTQ visibility to the bustling Southwest waterfront with an exciting array of activities and entertainment. The District Pier will offer a DJ, dancing and other entertainment. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase for those 21 and older. The Dockmasters Building will be home to a VIP experience with complimentary drinks and food during the duration of the event. Family fun for all ages.

Sunday
10:00am-2:00pm: Takoma Pride Day
Celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Takoma Pride Day with a Kids’ Pride Parade and Street Fair on Laurel Avenue.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream in and around Washington, DC!

May 29, 2024

We love to make popsicles and homemade ice cream in the summer but we also welcome a scoop (or two) at an ice cream shop when it’s hot! In fact on my daughter’s summer bucket list she added, “go to as many ice cream shops” last summer. Challenge was accepted. There’s nothing like a good scoop of ice cream or an ice cold popsicle in summertime.

The Charmery– Chevy Chase, MD & Walter Reed in addition to other locations

Through personalized hospitality and super premium, highly original, insanely delicious ice cream, The Charmery aims to bring together local and global communities to help every person achieve happiness through ice cream. They use the best possible ingredients, supporting local farmers and producers whenever possible. Featuring ever changing seasonal ice cream flavors, specialty sundaes, hand-spun milkshakes, and floats. The Charmery loves to collaborate with our local community including artists, musicians, and community figures.

VanLeeuwen Ice Cream– 3 locations in Washington, DC

What could be happier than that magic combination of milk, cream, eggs, and cane sugar (or coconuts, cashews and oats for our vegan friends)? Peanut butter brownie honeycomb is 10/10!

Sarah’s Handmade -2 Locations in Bethesda, MD

Handmade ice cream that stays true to Sarah’s commitment to the highest quality ice cream that she would “feel proud feeding my family,” Sarah uses only the best, local-whenever-possible ingredients and sticks to her small-batch, all-natural recipes. The flavors are endless and always a hit!

Malai– T St NW, DC

Malai, figuratively meaning cream of the crop, draws inspiration from South Asian ingredients, aromatic spices, and our founder’s upbringing. The ice cream is all eggless, handcrafted, and churned with very little air, resulting in purer, more robust flavors, as well as the creamiest textures you can find.

Southwest Soda Pop Shop -SW, DC

Southwest Soda Pop Shop is a family owned ice cream parlor and restaurant that serves up the best lunch at Washington, DC’s District Wharf. Southwest Soda Pop Shop has been serving sweet treats, like soft serve ice cream, and refreshing drinks with a smile to guests at the District Wharf since 2018, and is proud to be one of the only black owned restaurants in DC’s District Wharf.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – Bethesda, MD & NW, DC

Always a line, definitely worth waiting in, enough said, go and get some scoops, many scoops and report back.

The Baked Bear – Bethesda, MD

Homemade cookies from original recipes and hand-scooped on site, cookies are made with the highest quality ingredients and baked fresh from scratch every day, so you can imagine the aroma flowing from Baked Bear! You can choose your base (brownie, doughnut and/or cookies), then your ice cream flavor followed by toppings and sauces. Don’t forget to ask to have it pressed if you want a warm end result. Recipe uses an all-natural mix made only with rBGH-free cream, pure cane sugar and natural stabilizers.

State Fair at The Roost – SE, DC

State Fair features playful riffs on composed sundaes using homemade frozen custard, replete with all of the delicious sauces and toppings you’d expect, and several more you won’t. Pastry Chef Allie Cheppa is at the helm of the nostalgic spot, serving up composed sundaes and floats, or build-your-own by mixing and matching custard bases + toppings.

Italian Bar– Chevy Chase, DC

Kids order gelato, parents order drinks!

The Creamery at Union Market – NE, DC

A family-owned and operated dairy shop sourcing local milk and ice cream located in Union Market. This is spot for all things dairy inside Union Market should also be the go-to for all your ice cream needs. The shop sells milk, butter, cheese, and other dairy products from local farmers, and has a killer selection of hard-serve ice cream. Classic flavors like cookies and cream, chocolate, and coffee come in scoops or pints packed to go, plus soft serve, homemade waffle cones, and other sweets.

Ice Cream Jubilee – SE & NW DC

I found out about ICJ because of the mouth-watering Instagram photos everyone posts and then I realized you can order from UberEats! The best flavors come from the best ingredients. They use only all-natural cream and milk from a local creamery, just 50 miles from our scoop shop in Washington, DC. and are proud about the small-batch technique – just a few gallons at a time; allowing to create the highest-quality product and the freshest flavors.

Millie’s – NW, DC

Brought to you by the owners of Surfside & Jetties. Walk up to an outdoor ice-cream stand (attached to the take-out hut) and grab delicious scoops and toppings.

Honeys & Friends – NW, DC

In the old Sugar Fox location with the same concept. Flavors change weekly if not daily. They also offer cookies and other delicious treats.

Nicecream Factory – Arlington, Virginia

Handcrafted ice cream is their passion. They start the process by combining fresh milk and local ingredients from nearby farms. Using a freezing agent, liquid nitrogen, then freeze the ice cream on the spot in front of guests, creating the freshest handcrafted cup of ice cream you can get. Flavors are typical with some fun ones worth trying; white chocolate peanut butter and bananas foster are on my list!

Thomas Sweet – NW, DC

A Georgetown staple. This extensive sweets shop is complete with homemade fudge and chocolates—in addition to ice cream. The specialty here is the one-of-a-kind ‘blend ins’ with homemade ice cream. It’s not a place for the indecisive as they have a chalkboard full of flavors like peanut butter chip, vanilla cherry and our favorite, coffee oreo. Keep in mind that the kiddie-sized cup is very large—about 2 scoops of ice cream.

The Dairy Godmother – Alexandria, VA

This summer, you’ll find some exciting new additions at this custard shop. Stick with what you know and get Wisconsin-style frozen custard in vanilla or chocolate every day, or try the flavor of the day. Tollhouse cookie and toasted almond are both on the schedule; see all the upcoming flavors of the day here. They’ll also be offering homemade marshmallows and sorbet this summer along with puppy pops—a treat for your dog!

Goodies Frozen Custard – Alexandria, VA

You may have seen Goodie’s cater an event as they started as a food truck of sorts. Now the Wisconsin style frozen custard has a permanent home in Alexandria.

Moorenko’s Ice Cream – Scoop shop in Silver Spring, MD & pints found in markets through DMV

This ice cream brand, which is sold throughout the DMV in markets and deli’s, is made right here in D.C.! They even have a small shop where you can go for freshly made, hand-crafted ice cream. They’ve got the classic flavors as well as some unique flavors like Cinnamon Cappuccino & Blackberry Chocolate Chip.

Mount Desert Island – Mt. Pleasant, DC

Serving premium homemade ice cream in small batches.

Captain Cookie and the Milkman – 3 trucks & 4 locations

What started as a food truck serving milk and cookies and ice cream sandwiches, now has 3 food trucks you can hunt down in the city or hire for an event. For those of us who can’t make it to a truck stop, there are 2 actual locations you can visit. They also deliver!

Jarabe – Farmer’s Markets

Jarabe Gourmet Pops is a Latin American specialty pop-up based found at various farmers markets that specialize in Mexican-style gourmet pops.

Sfoglina – NW, DC & Rosslyn, VA

Italian soft serve gelato: your choice of Vanilla Gelato or Blueberry Balsamic Sorbetto. I promise you will want to go back the next day for another!

Maracas Pops – Georgetown

Originally from Mexico, the owner, Julia has been inspired by tropical flavors and refreshing treats. She fell in love with paletas, also known as Mexican ice pops, and was inspired to share her love for their unique flavors by starting her own company, Maracas Ice Pops.

Did you know Maryland has 11 dairy farms that offer fresh, delicious on-farm ice cream? Together, they make up the “Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail.” Visit each creamery and get a trail passport stamped to be named Maryland’s Ice Cream Trail Blazer! Sounds like a delicious summer bucket-list item. Now in its ninth year, the Ice Cream Trail is designed to promote the state’s dairy industry and has become increasingly popular, drawing participants from across the state and the region.

Reader recommended:
Everyday Sundae
Tipsy Scoop
Carmen’s Italian Ice
Class 520
Nathan’s Dairy Bar

Oldies but Goodies:
Broad Branch Market
Dolcezza Gelato
Jetties
Milk Bar
Dolci Gelati
Pitango Gelato
Godiva
Ben & Jerry’s
YogiBerry

Summer posts:
Indoor/Outdoor summer toys
Water toys that are a summer must have!
Summer bucket list
Device free road trips and flights
Pick your own fruits and vegetables

Guide to 2024 summer camps in the Washington, DC Metro Area

February 2, 2024

We are grateful to our 2024 summer camp sponsor; Camp KidJam and our partners; Camp Arena Stage, Steve & Kate’s Camp, and Imagination Stage. Registrations have started at most camps so enjoy finding the one best for your Bambinos and register soon.

Camp KidJam is for rising 1st – 6th graders created to encourage growth for kids in their relationship with God and one another. Camp KidJam is excited to partner with National Community Church for a unique Day Camp Experience. We’re bringing all of the creative, engaging elements of CKJ to DC in July!

There will be compelling Bible stories, impactful small groups, fun track activities, crazy team cheers, and of course, unforgettable games. Camp takes place July 22-26, 2024 from 9:00am – 4:00pm at the National Community Church, 700 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003. Camp costs $300 per person and include programming, activities, supplies, and t-shirt.

Music & theatre camps:

Campers choose their own schedules from activities in theater, music, visual arts, dance, filmmaking, writing and more, such as acting for the camera, hip-hop dance, musical theater, publishing the Camp Arena Stage newspaper, filming movie trailers and painting — all taught by professional artists and educators. It’s the perfect place to try something for the first time or take current skills to the next level. The skilled staff at Camp Arena Stage is dedicated to seeing, recognizing, and appreciating each individual for who they are and the art only they can make.

Campers and staff alike enjoy Camp Arena Stage because it brings together a diverse group of people who share a love of the arts to create a joyful community — hear what they have to say. Visit the Camp Arena Stage website to learn more and register today.

Camp Arena Stage will have a 3 week and a 2 week session in 2024!
3-week session: July 1 – July 19
2-week session: July 22 – August 2

Imagination Stage
Embrace your creativity, explore the arts, and make new friends and great memories with one (or more) of many exciting camp options. Imagination Stage offers 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-week long Summer Camps for ages 4 – 18 at locations in Bethesda, Rockville and Northwest DC from June 10-Aug 23. Imagination Stage provides equitable access to all programming, from added inclusion supports to peer-group access classes in order to provide the most successful experience for each student. Financial aid and payment plans are available. Imagination Stage offers 20% discounts for military, first responders, and school employees.

Adventure Theatre Camps: Glen Echo, MD
Arts on the Horizon: Alexandria, VA
Bach 2 Rock: Locations throughout DMV
Camp Arena Stage: NW, DC
Camp Levine: NW, DC, SE, DC, Bethesda, MD & Falls Church, VA
Camp Shakespeare: NW, DC
Dance & Gymnastics camps
Encore Stage: Arlington, VA
Girls Rock!: NPR Headquarters
Imagination Stage: Bethesda, MD
Keegan Theatre: NW, DC
The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts: NW, DC
Theater J Summer Musical Theater Camp: NW, DC
Traveling Players Ensemble: Tysons, VA
Young Artists of America: Bethesda, MD

Building, coding, educational, STEM & technology camps:
Apple Camp: Locations throughout DMV
ASDEC for Children: Silver Spring, MD & Herndon, VA
ClubSciKidz: Montgomery County
Code Ninjas: Alexandria, VA
Code WizardsHQ: Virtual
iCode Camp: The St. James
idTech: American University
KID Museum: Bethesda, MD
Lavern Camp: George Washington University Foxhall Campus
Mad Science Summer Camp: Locations throughout DMV
Summer at Sienna: Silver Spring, MD
Summer Discovery: Georgetown University
The Lab School Summer: NW, DC
The Lane at Ivy City (Camp starts at age 3.5): NE, DC

Art camps:
All Fired Up: Bethesda, MD & NW, DC
Anna Banana Arts & Crafts: NW, DC
Creative Youth Sewing: Bethesda, MD
District Architecture Kids Camp: TBD
Red Panda Art Studio: Bethesda, MD
Strathmore Art Camp: Bethesda, MD
The Loft Collective: Takoma Park, MD

Multi-interest camps:

Steve and Kate’s Camp
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s has put kids in charge of their own learning experience. Kids choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, maker crafts, baking, sports, and more! As kids try, fail, and learn on their own, they learn to trust their own judgment, and tackle the challenges of the world with creativity and confidence.

Families can buy any number of days, to use at any time–no weekly reservations required. Or, buy a Summer Pass, which covers the whole season. Either way, any unused Passes are automatically refunded at summer’s end. Camp is for kids ages 4–12. Lunch, snacks & all hours (8am–6pm) included in camp. 4 locations include DC Northwest, Chevy Chase, Potomac, MD and Alexandria, VA.

Adventure Links Day & Overnight Camp: Northern VA
Adventures on the Hill: Capitol Hill, DC & Takoma Park, DC
Aiden’s Village of Choice Summer: NW, DC
Audubon Naturalist Society: Chevy Chase, MD
Beauvoir Summer: NW, DC
Calleva Outdoor Adventure Camp: Poolesville, MD & Great Falls, VA
Camp Aristotle at The Auburn School: Silver Spring, MD & Chantilly, VA
Camp KidJam: SE, DC
Camp Sonshine: Silver Spring & Germantown, MD
CASA at Sheridan School: NW, DC
CCBC (Camp starting at age 2): NW, DC
Clara Barton Center for Children (Camp for ages 2-5): Cabin John, MD
Cleveland Park Club: NW, DC
CommuniKids Language Immersion (Camp starting at age 2.5): NW, DC & Falls Church, VA
Concord Hill School Preschool Camp: Chevy Chase, MD
Congressional Camp: Falls Church, VA
Creative Summer at Holtan Arms: Bethesda, MD
Edlavitch DCJCC Camp: NW, DC
Headfirst Summer Camp: NW & NE, DC, Bethesda, MD, & VA
Henry’s Sweet Retreat: Bethesda, MD
Landon Summer: Bethesda, MD
Little Burgundy Farm Horse Camp: Alexandria, VA
Lowell School Camp: NW, DC
Meadowbrook Stables: Chevy Chase, MD
Potomac School: McLean, VA
Rock Creek Park Horse Center: NW, DC
Sidwell Summer: NW, DC & Bethesda, MD
Smithsonian Summer Camp: Washington, DC
Steve and Kates Camp: NW DC, Alexandria, VA & Potomac, MD
Stone Ridge Camp (Includes middle school enrichment also): Bethesda, MD
Summer at Burke (6th-12th grade): NW, DC
Summer at Georgetown Day School: NW DC
Summer at Norwood: Bethesda, MD
Summer at Sandy Spring: Sandy Spring, MD
Summer Horizons Day Camp at NPS: NW, DC
Summertimes: Alexandria, VA
Urban Adventure Squad: NW, DC
Valley Mill Camp: Germantown, MD
Washington Episcopal School: Bethesda, MD
Woodland Horse Center: Silver Spring, MD
YMCA Camps Day camp and overnight options: Locations throughout DMV

Cool off with the best ice cream in Washington, DC, Virginia & Maryland

July 11, 2023

We love to make popsicles and homemade ice cream in the summer but we also welcome a scoop (or two) at an ice cream shop! In fact on my daughter’s summer bucket list she added, “go to as many ice cream shops” this summer. Game on. There’s nothing like a good scoop of ice cream or an ice cold popsicle when it’s hot.

Sarah’s Handmade -2 Locations in Bethesda, MD

Southwest Soda Pop Shop -SW, DC

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – Bethesda, MD & NW, DC

THE. BEST. (#notanad) Always a line, definitely worth waiting in, enough said, go and get some scoops, many scoops and report back.

The Baked Bear – Bethesda, MD

State Fair at The Roost – SE, DC

The Creamery at Union Market – NE, DC

A family-owned and operated dairy shop sourcing local milk and ice cream located in Union Market.

Ice Cream Jubilee – SE, NW DC & Ballston, VA

Millie’s – NW, DC

Brought to you by the owners of Surfside & Jetties. Walk up to an outdoor ice-cream stand (attached to the take-out hut) and grab delicious scoops and toppings.

Honey Bee Goods – NW, DC

In the old Sugar Fox location with the same concept. Flavors that change weekly if not daily. They also offer cookies and other delicious treats.

Broad Branch Market – NW, DC

A market that has most everything you need at a higher price but you feel like you live in Mayfield when you walk in. They have a freezer of about 8 flavors to order scoops from and milkshakes are available also as well as a freezer of novelties and handcrafted treats in the back.

Nicecream Factory – NW, DC & Virginia

Thomas Sweet – NW, DC

The Dairy Godmother – Alexandria, VA

Goodies Frozen Custard – Alexandra, VA

You may have seen Goodie’s cater an event as they started as a food truck of sorts. Now the Wisconsin style frozen custard has a permanent home in Alexandria.

Moorenko’s Ice Cream – Scoop shop in Silver Spring, MD & pints found in markets through DMV

Mount Desert Island – Mt. Pleasant, DC

Serving premium homemade ice cream in small batches.

Captain Cookie and the Milkman – 3 trucks & 4 locations

Jarabe – A variety of locations in DMV

Jarabe Gourmet Pops is a Latin American specialty pop-up based found at various farmers markets that specialize in Mexican-style gourmet pops.

Jetties – A variety of locations in DC & Bethesda, MD

Serving Gifford’s ice cream, Jetties is not just an ice cream shop, but also well-known for delicious sandwiches and salads. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch followed by a scoop for dessert, with the option of adding toppings like sprinkles and crushed oreos to your cone.

Sfoglina – NW, DC & Rosslyn, VA

Italian soft serve gelato: your choice of Vanilla Gelato or Blueberry Balsamic Sorbetto. I promise you will want to go back the next day for another!

Maracas Pops – Georgetown

Did you know Maryland has 9 dairy farms that offer fresh, delicious on-farm ice cream? Together, they make up the “Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail.” Visit each creamery and get a trail passport stamped to be named Maryland’s Ice Cream Trail Blazer! Sounds like a delicious summer bucket-list item. Now in its ninth year, the Ice Cream Trail is designed to promote the state’s dairy industry and has become increasingly popular, drawing participants from across the state and the region.

Reader recommended:
Everyday Sundae
Carmen’s Italian Ice
Class 520
Nathan’s Dairy Bar

Oldies but Goodies:
Dolcezza Gelato
Milk Bar
Dolci Gelati
Pitango Gelato
Godiva
Ben & Jerry’s
YogiBerry

Recent posts:
Indoor/Outdoor summer toys
Water toys that are a summer must have!
Summer bucket list
Device free road trips and flights
Pick your own fruits and vegetables