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Family Fun Awaits in Baltimore: Your Guide to the Best Kid-Friendly Activities

August 7, 2024

Baltimore, Maryland, is a vibrant city bursting with history, culture, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Charm City offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure. From interactive museums to outdoor explorations, here’s your guide to the best family fun in Baltimore.

Explore the Inner Harbor: A Waterfront Wonderland

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the heart of the city and a hub of activity for families. Start your adventure with a visit to the National Aquarium, where you can journey from the depths of the ocean to the tropical rainforests. Kids will love seeing sharks, dolphins, and the famous puffins, as well as exploring the interactive exhibits.

After the aquarium, take a short walk to the Maryland Science Center, where hands-on exhibits make learning fun. From exploring the stars in the planetarium to conducting experiments in the science labs, there’s something for curious minds of all ages.

Get views of a sunset over Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on the most popular evening sunset cruise. Snap photos of your loved ones against the backdrop of the sun sinking below the horizon and relax on board the boat. Listen to relaxing music and feel free to bring along your favorite bottle of wine, with corkscrew and glasses provided.

Don’t forget to stop by the Historic Ships in Baltimore—a floating museum featuring historic vessels like the USS Constellation and the USS Torsk submarine. Kids will love exploring the decks and imagining life at sea.

Finally, take a leisurely ride on a paddleboat or water taxi to get a unique view of the harbor. It’s a fun way to see the city from the water and a relaxing end to your Inner Harbor adventure.

Discover the Charm of Fells Point

Just a short walk from the Inner Harbor is the historic neighborhood of Fells Point. Known for its cobblestone streets and waterfront views, this area is perfect for a family stroll.

Baltimore’s Fell’s Point neighborhood is filled with great places to eat. But, if you are new in town, it can be difficult to find the best spots. Fell’s Point Food Tour is a guide that will take you through the historic district, visiting family-run restaurants along the way to sample specially made dishes including Polish, Baltimore-style pit beef, and Spanish tapas.

Fells Point is also home to the Urban Pirates, a pirate-themed cruise that’s a hit with kids. Dress up as a pirate, learn to talk like one, and set sail on an adventure full of games and treasure hunts.

Step Back in Time

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and visit Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner. Kids will love exploring the historic fort, watching reenactments, and participating in the Junior Ranger program. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor while learning about a pivotal moment in American history.

Baltimore is a city of diverse neighborhoods but, for visitors, it can be tricky to know which to visit. The Baltimore Historical Sightings Tour is a small-group guided tour takes the guesswork out of your trip. Your guide will take you to see several different neighborhoods and fill you in on Baltimore’s rich history and culture so that you have a fuller understanding of the city

For an unforgettable family experience, head to Medieval Times in nearby Hanover, where you can step back in time to a world of knights, jousting, and royal feasts. Enjoy a four-course meal while cheering on your knight in a thrilling tournament that includes jousting, sword fights, and displays of horsemanship. It’s an action-packed evening that kids and adults alike will love.

For a journey through history, visit the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum, home to one of the most significant collections of railroad artifacts in the world. Kids will love exploring the historic locomotives and train cars, and the museum offers interactive exhibits that bring the history of railroading to life. During certain times of the year, families can also enjoy themed train rides, such as the popular “Day Out with Thomas” event.

Get Hands-On at Port Discovery Children’s Museum

A must-visit for families with young children, the Port Discovery Children’s Museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits designed to inspire creativity and learning. Climb, crawl, and slide through the giant indoor playground, take part in imaginative play in the KidWorks exhibit, or explore the new “SkyClimber” for an adventure that will tire out even the most energetic kids.

Fire Up Your Curiosity at The Fire Museum of Maryland

Located just outside Baltimore, the Fire Museum of Maryland is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating look at the history of firefighting. The museum features an impressive collection of historic fire engines, equipment, and memorabilia. Kids can even try on firefighter gear and learn about fire safety through interactive exhibits. The museum also hosts special events, such as antique fire engine parades and family activity days.

Feel the Thrill at Six Flags America

Just a short drive from Baltimore, Six Flags America offers a day of adrenaline-pumping fun for the whole family. With a wide range of rides, from gentle kiddie attractions to thrilling roller coasters, there’s something for everyone. The park also features a water park, Hurricane Harbor, which is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. Be sure to check out the live shows and character meet-and-greets for added family entertainment.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Patterson Park

For some outdoor fun, head to Patterson Park, one of Baltimore’s largest and most beloved green spaces. The park features playgrounds, a swimming pool, and plenty of open space for picnics and playing. Be sure to visit the iconic Patterson Park Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the city from the top.

The park is also home to the Patterson Park Audubon Center, where kids can learn about local wildlife and participate in nature programs and birdwatching activities.

Unleash Creativity at the American Visionary Art Museum

The American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) is unlike any other museum you’ve visited. Filled with whimsical and thought-provoking art created by self-taught artists, AVAM is a place where creativity knows no bounds. The exhibits are vibrant and engaging, capturing the attention of visitors young and old. The museum also offers hands-on art workshops, making it a perfect spot for a creative family outing.

Catch a Game or See a Show

Sports-loving families should not miss a visit to Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Catching an Orioles baseball game is a quintessential Baltimore experience, and the stadium’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great outing for all ages.

For sports-loving families, attending a Baltimore Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium is a must-do experience. The energy and excitement of the crowd make for a thrilling day out, whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just looking for a fun family outing. The stadium offers a family-friendly atmosphere, and kids will enjoy the interactive fan zones and opportunities to see their favorite players up close. Be sure to wear your purple and black to show your Ravens pride!

If theater is more your speed, check out what’s playing at the Hippodrome Theatre or the Baltimore Center Stage. Both venues offer family-friendly performances throughout the year, from musicals to plays that will entertain kids and adults alike.

Washington Nationals offer deals, giveaways and themed nights for families

June 13, 2019

Schools across the D.C. area are closing for summer, but the month of June is packed full of fun events, giveaways, and theme nights at Nationals Park! The Nationals invite families to spend their next family night watching the boys of summer and enjoying one of the many family-fun activities at Nationals Park during the upcoming homestand, including STAR WARS™ Day, Friday Night Fireworks, and even a pair of memorable Father’s Day gift ideas. The Nationals are excited to share with you two special offers for families to choose from on their next trip to Nationals Park!

According to a survey, one of the largest obstacles for families attending Nats games is parking availability. So, for ALL JUNE games they offering FREE PARKING with the purchase of at least four tickets through a special ticket offer found here.

Coupon code 19NATSKIDS gives fans a 20% discount on select tickets available here with a $10 food and beverage credit preloaded to each ticket that can be redeemed at any concessions stand in the ballpark. This coupon code is valid for the Saturday, June 22 game or the Sunday, June 23 game against the Atlanta Braves, which features the Screech Hooded Towel giveaway.

Fireworks Friday: June 14
BANG! ZOOM! Fireworks Fridays return to Nationals Park for another installment!
All fans are invited to stay after the game to enjoy the fireworks spectacular.

STAR WARS™ Day: June 15
The Nationals will host the fifth annual STAR WARS™ Day at Nationals Park, featuring special scoreboard elements, unique food items, and more.
STAR WARS™ characters will pose for photos with fans, stage live combats, and participate in the GEICO Presidents Race.
Specialty food items will include a Wookie Cookie, Dark Side Nachos (with red tortilla chips), a Lightsaber Skewer (buffalo chicken street skewer), and more.
Fans are encouraged to join the fun by dressing up as their favorite STAR WARS™ character.
As part of STAR WARS™ Day, the first 10,000 fans to enter through ALL GATES will receive an Obi “Sean” Kenobi Bobblehead.

Father’s Day Catch on the Field: June 16
June 16 is Father’s Day and Nationals fans will have a special opportunity to create the memory of a lifetime by playing catch on the field with Dad after the game!
A ticket package purchased through this special offer includes a 20-minute session of catch on the field, a photo opportunity in the visitor’s dugout, a $30 concession credit, and one official MLB baseball.

Youth Baseball & Softball Day: June 16
The Nationals welcome all area teams and leagues to Youth Baseball & Softball Day presented by Inova Children’s Hospital.
Fans who purchase a special ticket to Youth Baseball & Softball Day will be invited to participate in a pregame parade around the warning track.

PLAY BALL Weekend: June 15 & 16
The Nationals will join all of Major League Baseball in promoting the Play Ball initiative designed by MLB to celebrate youth baseball and softball participation in communities throughout the U.S. and Canada.
As part of Play Ball Weekend, fans ages 12 and younger will receive a Nationals Arm Sleeve upon exit of the ballpark after both the Saturday and Sunday games.

A family-friendly Labor Day in Washington, DC

August 29, 2018

64th Annual Greenbelt Parade and Festival takes place Aug. 31 – Sept. 3

The Washington Nats are hosting the Brewers Labor Day weekend and have fun promotions happening.

Labor Day Art Show at Glen Echo

Saturday

Lake Ann Jazz Festival

Sunday

National Symphony Orchestra: Labor Day Capitol Concert

Monday

Herndon Labor Day Festival

Kensington, Maryland 51st Annual Parade and Festival

Old Towne Gaithersburg Parade

Don’t miss:
The National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party Series, Fun House which closes September 3
18th Library of Congress National Book Festival at the Washington Convention Center on September 1
Splashing around

Day & overnight trips:

Day or overnight trips to the beach or a state park

In Shenandoah National Park, hike from waterfall to waterfall, climb the rocky Old Rag Mountain, go biking or take a guided horseback ride. If you need to cool off, head over to Shenandoah River Outfitters and go rafting, tubing or kayaking on the shady river. 75 miles from downtown D.C. at its northernmost point; see all park entrances here.

Take a step back in time in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Although West Virginia is a small state, it’s packed with history and beautiful scenery. Kids will have fun visiting this National Historical Park. Visit Harpers Ferry for the Civil War history and re-enactors. Hike one of the many trails in the area for a spectacular view of three states—West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland—at once. Amtrak provides one train from Union Station to Harpers Ferry per day but it’s a short at about 67 miles from D.C. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center can get your hooked up with kayaks, tubes and more if you’re feeling adventurous.

July 4th in and around Washington, DC

July 2, 2018

(Photo: National Archives)

Have a safe and fun July 4th celebrating in the most perfect place; the nation’s capital! Be sure to check our Instagram for last minute parades and celebrations.

Grab some Washington Nationals tickets and cheer for the home as they are playing at home July 2-8, 2018.
July 3: 6:05pm: Nationals will play the Red Sox with postgame Freedom Fireworks!
July 4: 11:05am: Nationals will play the Red Sox. No fireworks but a nice way to spend the holiday and is part of the Patriotic Series.

10:00am-11:00am: Declaration of Independence Reading at the National Archives
Greetings from Allison Seymour, Fox 5 News Anchor. Presentation of colors by the Continental Color Guard. National Anthem by Caleb Green. Performance by the 3rd U.S. Infantry “The Old Guard” Fife and Drum Corps. Remarks by David S. Ferriero, Archivist of the United States. Keynote remarks by Laura Murphy, descendant of Signer Philip Livingston of New York. Dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by special guests including Abigail Adams, John Adams, John Dunlap, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. “America the Beautiful” by Caleb Green.

10:00am-4:00pm: Inside the National Archives Building
Come celebrate like it it’s 1776! Enjoy hands-on family activities, including story time, crafts and more! Meet John and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. Collect autographs, Declaring Independence scavenger hunt, Listen to stories of our patriotic past (noon, 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m.), Make colonial-style wigs and dress in period clothing, Sign the Declaration of Independence, Write with a quill pen & Set your name in type. Watch the National Independence Day Parade go by outside the National Archives at 11:45am.

11:45am-2:00pm: National Independence Day Parade
Get your spot along Constitution Ave where the parade will travel from 7th St to 17th St. Show your kiddos the balloons, floats, military units, bands and much more. Be prepared for a large crowd.

Noon-4:00pm: 4th of July Summer Party at District Wharf
Happy July 4th! We’re ringing in 242 years of American independence with a kid-friendly party on Transit Pier. The celebration starts at 12pm with live music from Rocknoceros, a local kids’ music band that’ll have your little ones rolling with laughter. Listen and watch, or queue up for face painting, games and a waterslide on the pier. For the adults in the crowd, the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden opens at 1pm for drinks and snacks, and Thongband will play live, patriotic music at 2pm!

All Day: National Mall Independence Day Celebration
It’s the biggest holiday in the Nation’s Capital! In addition to events on the National Mall, visitors can celebrate with special activities at Frederick Douglass’s Cedar Hill estate in Anacostia, or enjoy the fireworks from a number of national parks in and around the city. See schedule of events above.

8:00pm-9:30pm: A Capitol Fourth Concert
Gates open at 3:00pm and the concert begins at 8:00pm and airs on PBS and can be heard on NPR. Admission is free. They typically have a dress rehearsal on July 3 if you want to skip the larger crowd. Broadcast live on PBS from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, this time-honored 38 year-tradition puts viewers front and center for America’s biggest birthday party with the greatest display of fireworks anywhere in the nation lighting up the iconic D.C. skyline.

9:00pm: Fireworks
Fireworks will be launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool area, and will be visible from many locations in D.C. and Virginia.

Other viewing areas for the Mall fireworks:
Washington DC: U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, The White House Ellipse, West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park, Anacostia Park

Virginia: U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the George Washington Memorial Parkway

A few other fun celebrations happening:

July 4: 8:00am-5:00pm: An American Celebration at Mount Vernon

July 4: Noon-Dusk: Frederick’s 4th

July 4: 3:00pm-10:00pm: Historic Manassas Celebrates America

July 4: 6:00pm: Annapolis Fourth of July

July 4: 6:00pm: Falls Church Music & Fireworks

Posts you may be interested in:

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Weekend Picks: July 28-30, 2017

July 28, 2017

McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area is located on River Road in Western Montgomery County, and is a 2,000-acre tract in a mixture of woodlands, fields, wooded bottomland and managed wetland impoundments with many trails to hike and explore. As of July 24, 2017 the sunflowers are in full bloom. They will remain in full bloom for approximately 2 weeks. There are 30 acres planted in 9 fields. Reminder: Picking of sunflowers is prohibited.

Final weekend for Art Investigators at National Gallery of Art. How do you investigate a work of art? This program helps children make careful observations, analyze artists’ choices, ask questions, and use their imagination while exploring works of art. Led by museum educators, each program includes reading a children’s book, exploring one work of art in the galleries, and completing a simple hands-on activity. Children will receive a notebook to accompany the program. Each program is approximately 60 minutes. See dates and topics below. These free drop-in programs are designed for individual families on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no advance registration and space is limited, so please plan accordingly.
This weekend: Investigate: Sam Gilliam on the following days–
Friday, July 28 at 10:30am and 12:00pm, Saturday, July 29 at 10:30am and 12:00pm, Sunday, July 30 at 11:30am and 1:00pm or Monday, July 31 at 10:30am and 12:00pm

Theatre for this weekend:
Alice’s Rock and Roll Adventure at Imagination Stage has shows on Saturday and Sunday.
Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook at Adventure Theatre has shows on Saturday and Sunday.
Circus! at Puppet Co. has shows on Saturday and Sunday with a Tiny Tots:Penguins Playground show on Sunday
The Music Man presented by Encore Stage & Studio wraps up this weekend.
By the Seashore ends on Saturday by Arts on the Horizon

Saturday–

8:30am-9:30am: Capoeira for Kids Ages 3.5-7 at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Capoeira provides physical fitness for children, ages 4 and up. It is intended to be a no- to low-contact martial art that helps children with gross motor planning and gross motor skills. Children will also learn maculele (a dance done hitting sticks against your partner’s sticks), samba, capoeira instruments, and Portuguese through this fun, interactive class. Classes are $15 each or $120 for a series of ten classes.

9:30am AND 10:30am: Harambe with Baba Ras D at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Think of it as your little one’s first opportunity to express his or her voice (into a microphone), dance, play a drum or percussion instrument, shout, or sing-along to songs that build character, confidence and community.With more than 10 years of experience in youth development, education and conflict resolution, program instructor Baba Ras D’s “Harambe” is a morning jolt of inspiration for parents, caregivers and children. Recommended for ages 0 to 7 years. $7 per child $3 per adult suggested donation.

10:00am-3:00pm: Dog Days of Summer at National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave., N.E. Washington, DC 20002)
Come join the Dog Days of Summer Family Festival to get to know Owney the Dog, and understand the role animals play in our postal system to help transport and protect mail. In honor of Owney’s story, they’ve teamed up with local animal rescue groups and the Amtrak Police K-9 Unit. Demonstrations will showcase the work of K-9 dogs and other fun and hands-on activities inside the museum. Story time begins every half hour in the Museum Atrium.Compete with your friends or family members to see which one of you can deliver mail the fastest to the bottom of the canyon! In the outdoor terrace space, there will be an adoption fair.

11:00am-2:00pm: Hands-on Science: Health & the Human Body at Koshland Science Museum
(525 E St NW)
Explore how the human body works through hands-on science this July at Koshland. Each session investigates a different aspect of the body – everything from DNA to why our skin burns after too much sun exposure. Visitors can compare DNA and amino acids, experiment with biomedical engineering, discover the different lobes of the human brain, and much more! Registration is recommended but not required. Appropriate for ages 10+.

2:00pm: National Dance Day at the Kennedy Center
(2700 F St NW)
Watch, learn, and dance at this FREE community celebration of National Dance Day, culminating in a night of Dancing Under the Stars. Activities starting at 2:00pm and then at 6:00pm – A special Millennium Stage performance in the Grand Foyer and at 7:30 pm – Dancing Under the Stars. The return of our popular summer night social kicks off with a beginner-level swing dance lesson by Gottaswing, followed by two hours of dancing with The Tom Cunningham Orchestra.

Sunday-

10:00am-1:00pm: Family Day at Citi Open Tennis Tournament
(16th and Kennedy St NW)
Clinics will be available for children to participate in, face painting, a zumba class, PetConnect will have puppies on hand, balloon animals and a DJ. The best part: If you’re under 10 years old, you get in for free and get a FREE ticket to the Citi Open. And if you’re older than 10, it’s only $10 for a ticket into the tournament! We’ve been to this a few years in a row and our kids have a blast each time. The entire tournament runs July 29- August 6, 2017 and is at Carter Barron. There are free shuttles across town and on-site parking. See website for more details.

10:00am-11:00am: Nous Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
The Alliance Francaise is very proud to continue its partnership with BloomBars, bringing back a weekly music program for children. Nous Bloomons is a celebration of French language and culture through song and dance, led by Achille Ango. Achille grew up in Cameroon (Central West Africa). After graduating from High School, he went to France where he lived for seven years studying and playing music. He has taught French to children, and played music with various bands in the Washington area for more than 20 years. He now teaches French in an immersion school using music as a vehicle. If you want to have fun, dance, jump and sing “à tue-tête”, join us at BloomBars! $7 suggested donation per child. $3 per adult.

1:35pm: Washington Nationals take on Colorado Rockies
(1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003) jumbotron1 Weather should be clear of rain so a good excuse to get out and cheer on the home team. First 10, 000 fans receive a coloring book. Take the family to splash around at Yards Park before or after.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor
(165 Waterfront St National Harbor, MD 20745)
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor. Pack your picnic blankets, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages! Movie: Monsters, Inc.

Independence Day in and near Washington, DC with kids

June 22, 2017

Have a safe and fun July 4th celebrating in the most perfect place; the nation’s capitol! To kick off the weekend grab some Washington Nationals tickets and cheer for the home team.

July 3: 6:05pm: Nationals will play the Mets. Postgame Freedom Fireworks
July 4: 11:05am: Nationals will play the Mets. No fireworks but a nice way to spend the holiday and is part of the Patriotic Series.
July 5: 7:05pm: Nationals will play the Mets.

July 4: 10:00am-11:00am: Declaration of Independence Reading at the National Archives
(National Archives Building on the Constitution Avenue steps between 7th and 9th St
Greetings from Allison Seymour, Fox 5 News Anchor. Presentation of colors by the Continental Color Guard. National Anthem by Caleb Green. Performance by the 3rd U.S. Infantry “The Old Guard” Fife and Drum Corps. Remarks by David S. Ferriero, Archivist of the United States. Keynote remarks by Laura Murphy, descendant of Signer Philip Livingston of New York. Dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by special guests including Abigail Adams, John Adams, John Dunlap, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. “America the Beautiful” by Caleb Green.

July 4: 10:00am-4:00pm: Inside the National Archives Building
(National Archives Building- Boeing Learning Center)
Come celebrate like it it’s 1776! Enjoy hands-on family activities, including story time, crafts and more! Meet John and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. Collect autographs, Declaring Independence scavenger hunt, Listen to stories of our patriotic past (noon, 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m.), Make colonial-style wigs and dress in period clothing, Sign the Declaration of Independence, Write with a quill pen & Set your name in type. Watch the National Independence Day Parade go by outside the National Archives at 11:45am.

July 4: 11:45am-2:00pm: National Independence Day Parade
(Constitution Ave and 7th St)
Get your spot along Constitution Ave where the parade will travel from 7th St to 17th St. Show your kiddos the balloons, floats, military units, bands and much more. Be prepared for a large crowd.

July 4: All Day: National Mall Independence Day Celebration
(On the National Mall)
There’s no better place to be on Independence Day than the National Mall, the nation’s most important civic space and home to some of the most iconic monuments and memorials in our country. Fireworks will begin at 9:09pm.

July 4: 8:00pm-9:30pm: A Capitol Fourth Concert
(West Lawn of the Capitol)
Gates open at 3:00pm and the concert begins at 8:00pm and airs on PBS and can be heard on NPR. Admission is free. They typically have a dress rehearsal on July 3 if you want to skip the larger crowd.

July 4: 9:00pm: Fireworks
Fireworks will be launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool area, and will be visible from many locations in D.C. and Virginia.

Other viewing areas of the Mall fireworks:
Washington DC: U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, The White House Ellipse, West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park, Anacostia Park

Virginia: U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the George Washington Memorial Parkway

Celebrate someplace other than the National Mall-

July 1: 10:00am-12:00pm: Happy Birthday, America & Tudor Place

July 4: 9:00am-5:00pm: An American Celebration at Mount Vernon

July 4: 12:00pm-Dusk: Frederick’s 4th

July 4: 4:00pm-10:00pm: Historic Manassas Celebrates America

July 4: 6:30pm: Annapolis Fourth of July

July 4: 6:00pm: Falls Church Music & Fireworks

Fathers Day Picks

June 16, 2017

DC JazzFest at The Yards will be entertaining folks Friday-Sunday.

Awesome Con is Washington DC’s Comic Con, taking place Friday-Sunday at The Walter E. Washington Convention Center. It is a place for fans of popular culture. At its heart, Awesome Con is a comic-con that embraces all aspects of geekdom and pop culture, with a wide assortment of comic books, collectibles, toys, games, original art, cosplay, and more. Special events include discussion panels, costume contests, trivia contests, gaming tournaments, and tons of activities for kids.

Awesome Con is proud to work with GeekDad to present exciting Father’s Day activities on Sunday, June 18 in a show of appreciation for the awesome dads in attendance. The first 500 dads to attend Awesome Con on June 18 will receive a free, limited edition T-Shirt, and will have the chance to win giveaway prizes including Awesome Con swag and Washington Nationals tickets. See below for more information. Geek dads of all ages will enjoy events including a Q&A with Stan Lee, the father of Marvel Comics; a classic arcade of nostalgic games; a panel hosted by GeekDad teaching parents how to encourage curiosity in the next generation; and more. Bring your dad to the ultimate Father’s Day event — and kids 10 and under attend Awesome Con for free with code: AWESOMEJR

Around The World Cultural Food Festival comes to the Washington Monument Grounds Saturday & Sunday. In 2016, Around Cultural Food Festival, the largest cultural food festival in the DMV, had a record attendance of over 15,000 people for a first year event. Around the World Cultural Food Festival brings together diverse, authentic, living traditions from different countries around the world. Our mission is to preserve and strengthen the culture of each country while presenting it to the public throughout the course of this event and give all the participants a chance to learn from one another and understand the cultural differences and similarities. The event is free of charge and the public will have the opportunity to learn, to eat, to dance, to shop, to witness these vibrantly connected cultures and create their own connections with each and every single country presented in the event.

Junie B. Jones is making her appearance at Adventure Theatre this weekend. Based on the book series by Barbara Park. When Junie B. Jones, with her two bestest friends in the world, loses her new furry mittens to some “stealers,” she has to investigate. But Junie B. might have something she forgot to return, too.

Saturday-

10:00am-3:00pm: Innovations in Flight at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
(14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151)
Explore the engineering and design innovations that have taken place during the last century of flight. Talk with pilots of over 50 vintage and modern aircraft, on display outside the Museum for one day only. Discover the science behind flight through hands-on, STEM-based activities. Learn about the 70-year history of the U.S. Air Force, meet Air Force pilots, and see several of their planes. Free event, parking is $15.

11:00am-6:00pm: Columbia Heights Day Festival
(11th Street between Park Road and Irving Street)
The best local DC street party is back and you’re invited!! Join us in celebration of diversity and community with the neighborhood’s finest food, drink, and entertainment. Discover artisans, entrepreneurs, and area businesses in the heart of Columbia Heights. The fun is everywhere and for everyone! We have three stages of live music, dance, and free fitness classes. Kids can play at the carnival on the Harriet Tubman field while adults make their own fun at the Meridian Pint beer garden.

1:00pm-5:00pm: Creative Spark at National Building Museum
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
Experience innovation and creative expression, visible and hidden, in the world we build for ourselves through activities designed and facilitated by the Museum’s Teen Council. Investigate creativity within the Museum’s building and exhibitions with a digital scavenger hunt and get creative with an art project inspired by imaginative prompts. Activities are for all ages, but workshops for teens and a teens-only hangout space will be available. High school students receive free admission with a valid school I.D. Free, drop in. All ages.

Sunday^_

10:00am to 12:00pm: 4th Annual “Fit Father’s Day” at Silver Spring Civic Center, At Veterans Plaza
(8525 Fenton St Silver Spring, MD 20910)
On Father’s Day join us for a FREE “fun-for-all” group exercise with trainers Michelangelo Bance, Tiffani Jenkins, Styves Exantus and the Ravens’ Kyle Arrington. Also enjoy fitness games, Zumba by Z Sweat Dance and Fitness and Ray & Roze Zumba, healthy snacks, yoga led by 5 Sense Wellness, an interactive playground and music from DJ Blinks and PanLara steel drum. Attendees can compete for over $2,500 in prizes from Nike, Bose, Road Runner Sports, Modell’s, Soul Cycle, Strider Bikes, Thule, Live Nation, Yokohama Tires and Vibram in the Mr Fit Fathers, Fit Mom, Fit 50+ and Fit Kid contests. Also the reigning 2-time Mr. Fit Father, James Paul Swink, will be back to defend his Gym Source title against any takers of the grand prize.

12:00pm-4:00pm: Brunch on the Baseline at Nationals Stadium
(1500 S Capitol St. S.E., Washington, DC)
Enjoy an all-inclusive brunch from the field while the Nationals take on the Mets in New York! Tickets are $75 for an all-inclusive meal.

5:30pm: Hot Peas ‘N Butter Kids Pajama Jam Party at AMP Strathmore
Hot Peas ’N Butter moseys into AMP for a Pajama Jam that’s sure to have kids and parents alike on their feet. With delightful tunes full of flavors from reggaetón, hip-hop, and dance hall, these Parents’ Choice Award-winning musical maestros put on a unique show full of tasty beats and catchy melodies that is as irresistible as it is creative. Their interactive and invigorating music has charmed audiences across the nation and on Nick Jr. and Noggin. Don’t miss your chance to boogie with them live at AMP! Snacks, drinks, and sweets will be available for kids. Don’t worry dads, we’ll also have a beer for you! Doors open 60 minutes prior to the show. Seating will be available in the back of the house, but we plan to leave plenty of floor space for dance and play!

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Jungle 2 Jungle
(165 Waterfront St National Harbor, MD 20745)
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor. Pack your picnic blankets, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages! Please note that movies will begin at 6:00pm and will be shown once, so end times may vary with each movie.

Weekend Picks Aug 12-14

August 12, 2016

Didn’t get enough carnival rides and fried twinkles on the boardwalk this summer? Head over to the Montgomery County Fair. It is happening through Saturday, August 12-20. Fair and carnival hours vary as do animal exhibits in Old MacDonald’s Barn. Children 11 and under are FREE while adults cost $10. Check the schedule for daily events.

Prince William County Fair is also happening through Saturday, August 12-20.

The Nationals are in town and have some fun promotions and events happening, including Freedom Fireworks on Friday and Star Wars Day on Saturday.

Jumanji and The Little Mermaid are showing this weekend.

Get splish splashin in this hot weather.

Saturday-

Saturday and Sunday Alexandria Sidewalk Sale
(City of Alexandria is offering free parking at all City meters on Saturday and Sunday)
Alexandria’s summertime deal-grabbing tradition returns as over 50 boutiques throughout Old Town and Del Ray offer deeply-discounted summer merchandise.

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