Summer Fun in the DMV

School’s out and summer is officially ON! If you’re looking for fun things to do with your kids, you’re in luck – we’ve compiled a list of some of the best family friendly activities to check out this summer.

Outdoor Movies All Summer Long

Grab your picnic blanket and your kiddos for a night of family fun and entertainment! 

• Family Movie Nights at Tyson’s Corner: The last Friday of each month, starting at 7pm, enjoy family classics Karate Kid, Cruella, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and Raya and the Last Dragon at Tyson’s Corner. Admission is free and complimentary popcorn and soda is available while supplies last.
• Rockville Movies in the Parks: Check out Rockville’s beautiful parks and enjoy The Parent Trap, Boss Baby, The Secret Life of Pets, and Shrek, for free, beginning at dusk around 8pm on Wednesday nights in August. 

• The Drive-In at Union Market: There’s something special about watching a movie on the big screen from the comfort of your car! Add the best concessions via Union Market’s many food and beverage vendors and you have a great night all but guaranteed. Friday evenings from May through October, enjoy films like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Encanto. Walk up audiences also welcome at Neal Place. 

Capitol Riverfront Park Friday Night Concert Series, June and July

Enjoy the views and the tunes on Friday nights in June and July at The Yards Park boardwalk! Featuring bands of every genre from Irish Latin Rock to Jazz and RnB, and a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, there’s something for everyone. 

Smithsonian Folklife Festival, June 22nd – July 4th

Since 1967, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival has been collaborating with cultural practitioners, communities, and heritage professionals to spark curiosity, catalyze intercultural exchange, and create participatory experiences that nurture human connection. Check out the festival on the National Mall June 22nd – 27th and June 30th – July 4th for live music, crafts, artistry, food, and more! 

Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Summer Fair, July 10th

Celebrate summer at the Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Summer Fair on July 10. With more than 80 artisans and small businesses, enjoy music, dance, performances, and more! 

Georgia Peach Truck, July

Craving some juicy Georgia peaches? Check out the Georgia Peach Truck, which will be touring the DMV this July with fresh fruit and shelled pecans! Find your stop here. 

Smithsonian Nighttime Adventures, July and August

Have you ever wondered what happens after hours at the museum? Now is your chance to find out! Take a (self-guided) tour through the Museum of Natural History after hours when the crowds have cleared out, and participate in the Adaptation Game with fun-filled activities and treasures to collect. For kids aged 8-14 accompanied by at least one adult chaperone, multiple dates throughout July and August. 

Frying Pan Farm Park 4-H Fair and Carnival, August 4th – 7th

Frying Pan Farm Park is fun all year round with a wide variety of historic and recreational features, but you can’t miss the 4-H Fair and Carnival August 4th – 7th, when the park comes even more alive with rides, games, food vendors, and animal exhibitions.

These are just a few of the many events and activities offered throughout the DMV for adults and kids of all ages, so get outside and enjoy the warm, sunny weather and make wonderful memories you’ll cherish for years to come!