The Yards Park Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back on the Yards Park boardwalk! Every Friday night this summer, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike.

Glen Echo Summer Concert Series
Concerts are free and open to the public and feature a variety of local bands and musical genres. Music in the series typically ranges widely – from Country to Reggae, Swing to Latin Jazz, African to Cajun and Blues. Bench seating is provided in the pavilion, and folding chairs are also allowed. Visitors may also enjoy the music from the picnic tables just outside the pavilion; many families enjoy bringing a picnic dinner to eat while listening. Dancers are welcome as well. Concerts are on Thursday’s at 7:30pm from June 15 – Aug. 24.

Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
DC’s favorite summer concert series returns with a variety of musical performances including jazz, Latin fusion, bluegrass, and more. Join in the Sculpture Garden every Friday from May 19 through August 4. Due to high demand, they have a free lottery system so that anyone interested in attending Jazz in the Garden has an equal chance to participate. Each concert will have its own lottery, which will open the week prior on Monday at 10:00 a.m. and close that Friday at noon. Results of each lottery will be emailed to all entrants the week of the concert on Monday at 10:00 a.m. Registration is required for all ages 2 and above.

Live from the Lawn: Cool Concerts for Kids at Strathmore
Thursday’s at 7pm starting July 13. The shows are 60 minutes, no intermission. Be home before bedtime!

Wolf Trap Children’s Shows
Performances take place in the woods and range from music and dance—interactive, educational, and fun. All shows are about an hour long and are perfect for children ages 4 and up.

Wolf Trap National Park
Offering a variety of shows outdoor. A perfect way to spend a summer evening, if you get lawn tickets don’t forget a picnic.

A Capitol Fourth at the U.S. Capitol
The show is broadcast to millions of viewers on PBS and streaming platforms as well as to our troops watching around the world on the American Forces Network. Details on the website as to how and where to attend in person.

Olney Outdoors
Return outdoors with over 25 summer programs to be held on the newly renovated Root Family Stage at Omi’s Pavilion, this summer from July 7 – September 3, 2023.

Summer in Rockville Square
Every Friday from 6pm-8:30pm (image below)

Live military band concerts are free and no tickets are required unless noted:
U.S. Navy Band– Tuesday’s at the US Navy Memorial at 7:30pm
U.S. Air Force Band– Tuesday’s at the US Capitol West Lawn at 8:00pm, and Saturdays at National Harbor at 7:00pm
U.S. Marine Band
U.S. Army Band

Venues to check out:
The Anthem, The Atlantis, Comet Ping Pong, Nationals Park, The Hamilton, Howard Theatre, The Birchmere, Jammin Java, The Kennedy Center, Pearl Street Warehouse, The Pocket DC, Lincoln Theatre

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The Drive-In at Union Market – Washington, DC
Let’s roll down the windows, feel that warm breeze and turn up the radio because the 11th Annual Drive-In at Union Market is back. A DC “must-do,” the series of eight movies launches April 7, and will continue on the first and third Friday of every month through July 21st. Movie audio will be transmitted through an FM transmitter on the radio and through speakers placed on Neal Place. As always, all movies are shown with open captioning. The movie plays rain or shine! Each movie showing costs $20 per car. “Sold Out” means that all 170 parking spaces have been reserved. All sales are final, no refunds issued.

• July 7: Top Gun Maverick
• July 21: Hairspray

Starlight Cinema – Fairfax, VA
Welcome to another exciting season of Starlight Drive-in Cinema. These movie nights bring the community together and nurture community spirit with features that appeal to both children and adults. The 2023 season provides four movies, free for the public to enjoy. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal so feel free to bring a picnic, blanket and chairs, and enjoy the movies.

• Aug 5: Minions: The Rise of Gru
• Aug 12: Lightyear
• Aug 19: Bad Guys
• Aug 26: DC League of Super Pets

Movies in the Park – Montgomery County, MD
Get outside this summer and get into Rockville’s free outdoor movies in the parks on the big screen. Enjoy four different movies at four different neighborhood parks throughout the city. Movies begin at dusk (approximately 8 p.m.) and are free. Bring your own chairs, blankets, food and non-alcoholic beverages.

• Aug. 2: Boss Baby at Potomac Woods Park
• Aug. 9: The Secret Life of Pets at Woodley Gardens Park
• Aug. 16: Cool Runnings at Montrose Park
• Aug. 23: Raya and the Last Dragon at Maryvale Park

Bengie’s Drive-In – Middle River, MD
The BIGGEST movie theatre screen in the USA! Bengie’s offers TriPPPle features almost every Friday and Saturday night, DouBBle features on Sunday night with non-stop projection. The show always begins with the National Anthem. In between movies, they play intermission clips, classic cartoons, and vintage trailers. On Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, they have Dusk till Dawn, All Nite Shows!

Extraordinary Cinema at The REACH– Washington, DC
Join for FREE film screenings outdoors on the REACH Video Wall. Films start at sundown or around 8:30 p.m.

• June 30: The Iron Giant
• July 7: Jaws
• July 14: True Grit
• July 21: Fantastic Mr. Fox
• July 28: The Princess Bride
• Aug. 4: Moana
• Aug. 11: Close Encounters of the Third Kid
• Aug. 18: A League of Their Own
• Aug. 25: O Brother, Where Art Thou?

DowntownDC Summer Flicks – CAN I KICK IT? – Washington, DC
This movie series is back for its sixth season at Franklin Park! This free event series begins June 1 and will run every Thursday evening through July 13. Join us for action-packed films, live DJs, and more. Seating starts at 7:30 p.m., when guests can enjoy music by an impressive lineup of special guest DJs. All movies are mixed with a LIVE music soundtrack of Hip Hop & Soul by Shaolin Jazz‘s own DJ 2-Tone Jones. Movies start at sunset. Attendees can expect free swag items while supplies last, fun movie trivia with prizes, and so much more! Moviegoers can also enjoy 20% off from Pow Pow using code “canikickit” for online and in store orders (ordering ahead is strongly encouraged).

• June 29: Everything Everywhere All At Once 
• July 6: Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 
• July 13: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade 

Summer Movies on the Lawn– Washington, DC
The Library of Congress will host its annual “Summer Movies on the Lawn” series starting July 6. The series featuring films from the Library’s National Film Registry will be presented Thursday evenings at sundown on the southeast lawn of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building. Music will be presented prior to each film, with live performances on July 6, July 20 and Aug. 3. Music for the evening will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the film at sundown. Located on the corner of 2^nd Street SE and Independence Avenue, the southeast lawn of the Thomas Jefferson Building is a scenic space to enjoy films on Capitol Hill. No tickets are required, but visitors are encouraged to arrive early as space is limited. Visitors must stay with their items on the lawn at all times. 

• July 6: Iron Man (2008)
• July 13: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)
• July 20: Shrek (2001)
• July 27: Groundhog Day (1993)
• Aug. 3: Mary Poppins (1964)
• Aug. 10: Jaws (1975)

The series is a feature of the new Library after hours experience, Live at the Library. From 5 – 8 p.m. on Thursday evenings, visitors are invited to enjoy happy hour drinks and snacks available for purchase in the Great Hall overlooking the Capitol and the Thomas Jefferson Building’s beautiful architecture while immersing themselves in the Library’s exhibits, collections and programs. Free timed-entry passes for entrance to the Thomas Jefferson Building are required and can be reserved here.

Movie Under the Stars – Cabin John, MD
Movies Under the Stars will screen every second Friday on the plaza. Film lovers can watch their favorite flicks on the outdoor screen while sitting picnic-style in Cabin John Village’s plaza. Live music and kids’ activities available from 6:30 pm.

• July 7: Top Gun Maverick, movie starts at 8:30pm
• Aug. 4: Toy Story, movie starts at 8:00pm
• Sept. 1: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, movie starts at 7:30pm
• Oct. 6: Encanto, movie starts at 7:30pm

Family Drive-In – Stephens City, VA
This is a two screen, 65 year old classic, 484 car drive-in theatre. They offer movie sound via the traditional speakers or via stereo sound (through your car radio). There is a concession stand that offers theatre snacks or full meals. The space has a playground and is pet friendly.

Sunset Cinema at the Wharf – Washington, DC
All summer long, come to The Wharf for free movies on Transit Pier presented by Pacifico onThursday evenings starting at 7:00pm. With action movies, rom-coms, blockbusters, and classics, there is something for everyone

• June 29: Top Gun: Maverick
• July 6: Forrest Gump
• July 20: Bend It Like Beckham
• July 27: Where the Crawdads Sing
• August 3: A Dog’s Purpose
• August 10: The Sandlot
• August 17: Ratatouille
• August 24: School of Rock
• August 31: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Bethesda Outdoor Movies – Bethesda, MD
Enjoy three nights of blockbuster hits at downtown Bethesda’s 19th annual outdoor movie series!  Show times begin at 9pm at the corner of Norfolk & Auburn Avenues. A limited number of chairs will be provided – please bring your own lawn chairs. Admission is FREE! Spend an enjoyable evening in Woodmont Triangle and have dinner at one of the neighborhood’s delicious and diverse restaurants before the show!

• July 28: Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody
• Aug. 5: 50 First Dates
• Aug. 11: Top Gun: Maverick

Movie Night in the Park at the UDC Amphitheater – Van Ness, DC
The park will be open one hour before showtime to select your seats and enjoy food and drinks before (or during!) the show. Seating is limited and will be based on capacity limits provided by UDC. Outside food and drink, including alcoholic beverages, are permitted. Please support our local restaurants and eateries during Movie Night!

• June 28: Sister Act
• July 19: 101 Dalmatians (1996)
• July 26: Minions: The Rise of Gru

Mosaic – Strawberry Park, VA
Films in the Park are every Thursday evening at 7pm through August 17. Film lovers can watch their favorite flicks on the larger-than-life outdoor screen while sitting picnic-style in Strawberry Park. All movies are shown rain or shine unless otherwise noted.

• June 29: In & Out
• July 6 Top Gun: Maverick
• July 13 Fast X
• July 20 Puss In Boots: The Last Wish
• July 27 Ticket to Paradise
• Aug. 3: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
• Aug. 10: Moana
• Aug. 17: E.T.

Adam’s Morgan Movie Nights – Adams Morgan, DC

Voted as one of the best outdoor movie series in DC by readers of the Washington City Paper, Adams Morgan Movie Nights is a can’t-miss event!This year’s series focuses on “The Road Less Traveled,” showcasing movies that find our heroes on a quest of one sort or another. Series runs from May-June.

• June 27: Shrek (Family Night)

Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor – National Harbor, MD
Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of the delicious dining establishments, and meet on the Plaza’s big screen for a *FREE* evening of fun for all ages! Family Movie Nights: Sundays at 6pm | Date Night Movies: Thursdays at 7pm

• June 29: King Richard
• July 2: DC League of Super-Pets
• July 6: Black Adam
• July 9: Up
• July 13: Wonder Woman (2017)
• July 16: The Princess Diaries
• July 23: Her Best Move
• July 27: Gracie
• July 30: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
• Aug. 3: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
• Aug. 6: Incredibles
• Aug. 10: A Journal for Jordan
• Aug. 13: Incredibles 2
• Aug. 17: Invictus
• Aug. 20: Air Bud: World Pup
• Aug. 24: Sister Act
• Aug. 27: Space Jam: A New Legacy
• Aug. 31: Cruella
• Sept. 3: Shrek
• Sept. 7: A Man Called Otto
• Sept. 10: Shrek 2
• Sept. 14: Coming 2 America
• Sept. 17: Coco
• Sept. 21: La Bamba
• Sept. 24: Encanto
• Sept. 28: Maid in Manhattan

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Larriland (2415 Woodbine Rd., Woodbine, MD 21797)
Open – November 6
Gaze across the fields dotted with thousands of orange pumpkins, each one waiting to become a jack-o-lantern for your porch. The farm is decorated for Halloween with ghosts and goblins to delight and scare you. The fields are laden with crisp, succulent vegetables. The orchards are bent down with apples. It’s the last harvest to reap before the cold winter sets in. And fall is the perfect time to enjoy a tall glass of freshly squeezed sweet apple cider. Reservations required for pumpkin and evening hayrides. The Straw Maze, built in a confusing pattern with large round bales of straw, is a delightful place to get lost. The Straw Maze is open every day the farm is open in late September and October. The Boo Barn is for children ages 4 – 6. It is a dark passage in the bottom of the Red Barn and is filled with animated, not too scary ghosts and goblins. The Boo Barn is open every day the farm is open in late September and October. Apple fritters and Food trucks on Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Great Country Farms (18780 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont, VA 20135)
September 1 – November 7
Open daily for apple picking and corn maze from Sept 1-30. They also have flashlight family nights through the corn maze September 10, 17, 24, 2022. On Saturdays & Sundays, they add in live music, marshmallow roasting, pig races & cider pressing demonstrations. Check out the Zurschmeide Family’s antique 1865 Cider press. Sample freshly pressed cider and see how it used to be produced! Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival is from October  1-31 & Pumpkin Chunkin taking place November 5-6. Purchase tickets online.

Gaver Farm (5501 Detrick Rd., Mount Airy, MD 21771)
September 2 – October 31
Enjoy fall on the farm by conquering the twists and turns of the corn maze, bouncing on the jumping pillows, petting and feeding the farm animals and cruising down the giant slides. There are over 60 attractions, appropriate for any age including 2 jumping pillows, Chicken Show, farm animals, mini mazes, playgrounds, duck races, ball games, photo centers and so much more! Purchase tickets online.

Clark’s Elioak Farm (10500 State Rte 108 Ellicott City, MD 21042)
Open – November 6
Petting farm animals, hayrides, cow train rides, pony rides, birthday parties, educational tours, enchanted pine tree forest, special weekend events, enchanted forest attractions (from an old theme park) and fall season pumpkin patch. You can purchase tickets when you arrive.  

Homestead Farm (15604 Sugarland Rd., Poolesville, MD 20837)
Open 7 days a week
Pick your own apples and pumpkins, live animals to see and browse market goodies such as apple cider, mums and honey.

Summers Farm (5620 Butterfly Ln. Frederick, MD 21703)
September 17 – October 31
Admission includes 45+ fall fun activities. For a full schedule of special events, visit the Entertainment page. For a complete listing of activities available at Summers Farm, visit the Attractions page.

Leesburg Animal Park (19270 James Monroe Hwy., Leesburg, VA 20175)
September 17 – November 6
Enjoy the giant hill slides, hay wagon rides, pet and feed animals, free apple and cider snack with admission, free mini-pumpkin, kids maze and live entertainment, pedal carts, bounce pillow and live music. Specials on weekends include camel rides and Entertainment.

Cox Farms (15621 Braddock Rd., Centreville, VA 20120)
September 17 – 18 & then the Fall Festival will be open Thursday through Monday from Sept. 24 through Nov. 7, plus Tuesday, Nov. 8.
The Fall Festival is filled with family-friendly entertainment and TONS of attractions including slides, swings, animals, hayrides and more.

Butlers Orchard (22200 Davis Mill Rd., Germantown, MD 20876)
September 24 – October 30
Admission to pick your own pumpkins, hayrides, hilltop hop jump pads, tractor pull, jump in the hayloft, visit barnyard buddies, twisted corn maze, live music on weekends, playground, spiderweb, play in the corn box, straw maze, swoop down the giant slides, corn hole games & pedal tractors. Open Wednesday-Sundays, reservations are highly recommended.

Wayside Farm (5273 Harry Byrd Hwy., Berryville, VA 22611)
September 24 and then open Thursday – Sunday & Columbus Day (Oct 10)
September 24 – October 30, 2022
Watch the pig races, get lost in the maze or sit under the tree, head to the playground or animals and play pumpkin checkers. There is a hay mountain and hayrides too. Get lost in the 10-acre corn maze. This year the maze pays homage to our amazing medical professionals who work to keep us all healthy and safe.  

Loudoun Fall Farm Tour
October 15 and 16
Over two dozen locations are part of this exciting tour through rural Virginia. 

Readers also recommend:
Montpellier Farm
Weber’s Cider Mill
Pumpkin Playground at Burke Nursery

Fall festivals:
Maryland Renaissance Festival: August 27 – October 23
Oktoberfest at The Boro: September 17
H Street Festival: September 17
Oktoberfest at the Wharf: September 30 – October 2
PIKEtoberfest: October 2
Volta Park Fall Festival: October 15
Fall for Fairfax KidFest: TBD
Frederick Oktoberfest: TBD
Barracks Row OctROWberfest: TBD

Adults only:
Markoff’s Haunted Forest
Field of Screams
Ebe Haunts Trail of Terror
Fields of Fear
Six Flags Fright Fest
Shocktober

Food:
Order seasonal treats from Milk Bar. Taking the classic fall favorite,  apple cider doughnuts, and remixing it with a uniquely Milk Bar spin, a brand new cake and truffle combo is meant to transport you to your favorite fall memory.

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Burnside Farms in Nokesville, VA has a field of 8 acres of various varieties of sunflowers that are in bloom.  The Summer of Sunflowers begins late-July and runs through Labor day. You must purchase tickets to attend.

McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area sunflower field in Poolesville, MD is one not to miss. This is a free field to visit.

Gold Petal Farms is in Chaptico, MD and has a living maze you can go through as well as a pick-your-own flower garden during the summer season.

Rocky Point Creamery is located in Tuscarora, MD and has 2 acres of sunflowers + (bonus) homemade ice cream!

Maryland Agriculture and Farm Park in Cockeysville, MD welcomes you to bring a picnic, and leave with a day of memories. Before or after picking and picnicking, explore more of what the Farm has to offer; trails, demonstration gardens, animals, history, and more. Sunflowers typically bloom in mid-late September.

Valley View Acres is in Middletown, MD and is open! They have an Annual Sunflower Festival:
July 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 30 & 31, August 6 & 7, 13 & 14 from 10am-4pm. They are cash only.

Butler’s Orchard in Germantown, MD allows you to pick-your-own flowers and while you are there, pick some fruit. Make a reservation here.

A few further north to consider:
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: Check their website periodically throughout the summer of 2022 for updates on the 2022 sunflowers

Sunflowers in Jarrettsville, Md: Estimated to bloom September 2022, follow their Facebook page for details

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Outdoor ice skating rinks

Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District– Downtown Columbia, MD
The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District is back for the 2021 – 2022 season! There will be plenty of celebrations and themed events throughout the season, as well as music and pop-up food and beverage. You will have a 75-minute skate period beginning when you enter the rink.

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
October 25 – mid-March
Reservations are required to skate. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They also offer skating lessons to children and adults.

Canal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
November – February and open on holidays

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
Skating fees are for two 45-minute sessions. November 19, 2021–March 6, 2022, weather permitting. You can purchase single tickets, seasons passes and they offer skating lessons.

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
October 29 – mid-March
This season reservations are required to skate at the rink. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They offer group and private skating lessons.

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
Mid-October – mid-March
This season reservations are required to skate at the rink. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They offer several options to learn to skate- whether you are an aspiring hockey player, beginning figure skater, an adult wishing to get reacquainted with the ice, or anything in between, they have an option for you.

Wharf Ice Rink– 960 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
November 26 – late February and open on holidays
This year, The Wharf Ice Rink has gone ALL CAPS. Check out the Washington Capitals décor and ice resurfacer, and join fellow hockey fans on the ice for Rock The Rink skate event on January 15. The Rock The Rink skate event features a DJ, Caps gear giveaways, and a visit from Slapshot. During the event, they’ll also broadcast the Capitals’ away game on a jumbotron near the ice and fans wearing Capitals gear receive $5 off admission to The Wharf Ice Rink. Also, join for a free, friendly game of curling every Wednesday evening in January! The Canadian game marries hockey and shuffleboard for a low-pressure evening on the ice—no skates needed! Want to play? Preregister for your desired gametime on Eventbrite. Games begin at 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm every Wednesday through January. 

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007               
Reserve your tickets here.

Gaylord National Ice Rink– 201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745
Tickets must be purchased in advance online. No on-site box office. Unlimited same-day skating and skates.

Indoor ice rinks

Cabin John Ice Rink– 10610 Westlake Dr Rockville, MD 20852
Open year-round with three rinks (NHL, Olympic, and Studio), public skate sessions, lessons provided, camps, three party rooms available to rent, a pro shop with skating equipment, apparel, and skate sharpening and repair services.

Wheaton Ice Arena– 11717 Orebaugh Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902
NHL-size skating rink, public skate sessions, camps, lessons provided, two party rooms to rent, a snack bar /vending machines with refreshments and snacks. Pro Shop with skates, hockey equipment, apparel, skate sharpening, and repair services.

Fort Dupont Ice Arena– 3779 Ely Place SE Washington, DC 20019
They have a program which offers opportunities for kids from 5-18 interested in hockey, figure skating, synchronized skating and speed skating.

MedStar Capitals Iceplex– Ballston, VA
Practice rink of our Washington Capitals! You can public skate, take lessons, adults can take part in a pick-up game of hockey, kids can take hockey lessons, have a birthday party and attend camps.

Indoor roller rinks

Lanham Skate– Lanham, MD
Family fun nights, arcade games, lessons, STEM field trips, birthday parties, school break days and more!

Laurel Roller Skating Center– Laurel, MD
Birthday parties, lessons, family nights and more!

Temple Hills– Temple Hills, MD
Family skate nights, glow nights, arcade, STEM field trips, birthday parties and more!

Skate Zone– Crofton, MD
Lessons, birthday parties, STEM field trips, event calendar and more!

Cavalier Family Skating– Stafford, VA
Birthday parties, speed team, arcade and indoor play zone, lessons and more!

Skate-N-Fun Zone– Mannassass, VA
Laser tag, arcade, indoor play zone, themed nights, STEM field trips and more!

Outdoor roller rink

Anacostia Park– SE, DC
Skate rentals are free at this outdoor rink! And on summer weekends you can dance to DJ music as you enjoy this open air roller rink. This is the one and only roller skating rink in the National Park Service but is only open for a short season. Skate rentals will return Memorial Day to Labor Day 2022. 

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As you’ve gotten out and about in the city more, you may have noticed some new murals throughout each ward. A bit of back story on that– the murals were commissioned by Mayor Muriel Bowser who requested the murals be completed by June 26, 2020 which was the day the U.S. House of Representatives voted on D.C. statehood for the first time in a generation. The summer of 2020 we spent a few days locating most of the murals which provided for a fun scavenger hunt of sorts around DC. My kids loved keeping track of how many we saw as well as discussing what each portrayed and what they meant and choosing favorites. We have put together the addresses of the murals below and won’t spoil it for you completely with a bunch of photos, but know that some locations may have 5 murals while another may only have 1. Enjoy!

The murals can be found at the address below, we grouped them together if they are near another mural to save you time.

620 T Street NW (near Howard University)
201 Bryant Street NW

1351 Wisconsin Avenue NW (Georgetown)
2810 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
2309 Wisconsin Avenue NW (Glover Park)

4608 14th Street NW

1725 West Virginia Avenue NE (Trinidad)
1310 Childress Street NE
640 10th Street NE (H St. Corridor)
1333 H Street NE

801 West Virginia Avenue SE

1350 49th Street NE

2700 South Capitol Street SE

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Your children’s favorite storybooks of knights, castles, and dragons become a reality when you step inside the magical Maryland Renaissance Festival. Back from a cancelled year due to COVID-19, this beloved festival is back and as fun as ever, running every Saturday and Sunday through October 24 in Crownsville, Maryland. There is enchantment and merriment from the moment you enter the castle gates with likely the largest number of adults dressed in costume that your child has ever seen. Forgot your costume? No problem. You can grab a flower wreath, sword, or a full jester ensemble at every turn. There are plenty of games for young kids like “Drench a Wench” (dunk tank), Crossbow (totally safe), and Rat Toss, an enormous ship that serves as a playground. In addition, there is a climbing wall for the older kids, an exciting long and wavy slide, and a variety of shows that can captivate even the most ardent skeptics. The live jousting and bagpipe music are particularly special treats so make sure to plan your schedule to not miss! The festival itself is spread out over a 27 acre village in the forest so you will get your steps in for the day! Strollers are allowed, but keep in mind that the terrain is not the smoothest to navigate and on a nice day, it can feel packed. Come hungry and enjoy the iconic smoked turkey leg, lots of things on a stick (steak, cheesecake, fried mac & cheese), wraps, chicken tenders, and a host of sweet treats. Plenty of mead and beer to go around too! All ticket sales are online only and nice days will sell out so plan ahead!

Adult tickets are $28, and children (7-15) are $13 and (under 7) are free. 

Hours are 10:00am-7:00pm, weekend through October 24, 2021.

Check out all the information here.

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Butlers Orchard (22200 Davis Mill Rd., Germantown, MD 20876)
September 25th – October 31
Admission to pick your own pumpkins (pumpkins are $0.69/lb), hayrides, hilltop hop jump pads, tractor pull (NEW in 2021!), jump in the hayloft, visit barnyard buddies, twisted corn maze, live music on weekends, playground, spiderweb, play in the corn box, straw maze, swoop down the giant slides, corn hole games & pedal tractors. For additional fees and weekends only: Pumpkin Cannon, $4.00/shot, October 16-17, 23-24, 30-31, Pony Rides (10:30 am – 4:30 pm), Face Painting, $4.00 and up & Pick Your Own Pumpkins, $.69/lb.

Winterbrook Farms (13001 Creagerstown Rd., Thurmont, MD 21788)
Weekends September 24 – October 31
There is something fun for all ages at this farm with over 25 activities to enjoy. There are 10 acres of 20+ different varieties and colors of U-Pick Pumpkins , Maryland’s LARGEST Corn Maze with over 5 miles of trails , an interactive farm animal area , a pumpkin jump pillow, mini beeline ziplines, round bale rollers, giant corn box, apple cannons & much more! Stop at the Concessions stand for freshly made apple cider donuts, freshly made kettle corn, freshly squeezed lemonade , and delicious BBQ. Pick up some Winterbrook Farms merch, fall decor, and local products at the Farm Market!

Summers Farm (5620 Butterfly Ln. Frederick, MD 21703)
September 18 – October 31
Admission includes 45+ fall fun activities. For a full schedule of special events, visit the Entertainment page. For a complete listing of activities available at Summers Farm, visit the Attractions page.

Larriland (2415 Woodbine Rd., Woodbine, MD 21797)
Open – November 7
Gaze across the fields dotted with thousands of orange pumpkins, each one waiting to become a jack-o-lantern for your porch. The farm is decorated for Halloween with ghosts and goblins to delight and scare you. The fields are laden with crisp, succulent vegetables. The orchards are bent down with apples. It’s the last harvest to reap before the cold winter sets in. And fall is the perfect time to enjoy a tall glass of freshly squeezed sweet apple cider. Reservations required for pumpkin and evening hayrides. The Straw Maze, built in a confusing pattern with large round bales of straw, is a delightful place to get lost. The Straw Maze is open every day the farm is open in late September and October. The Boo Barn is for children ages 4 – 6. It is a dark passage in the bottom of the Red Barn and is filled with animated, not too scary ghosts and goblins. The Boo Barn is open every day the farm is open in late September and October. Apple fritters and Food trucks on Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Clark’s Elioak Farm (10500 State Rte 108 Ellicott City, MD 21042)
September 18 – October 31
Petting farm animals, hayrides, cow train rides, pony rides, birthday parties, educational tours, enchanted pine tree forest, special weekend events, enchanted forest attractions (from an old theme park) and fall season pumpkin patch. You can purchase tickets when you arrive.  

Gaver Farm (5501 Detrick Rd., Mount Airy, MD 21771)
September 3 – October 31
Enjoy fall on the farm by conquering the twists and turns of the corn maze, bouncing on the jumping pillows, petting and feeding the farm animals and cruising down the giant slides. There are over 60 attractions, appropriate for any age including 2 jumping pillows, Chicken Show, farm animals, mini mazes, playgrounds, duck races, ball games, photo centers and so much more! Purchase tickets online.

Great Country Farms (18780 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont, VA 20135)
September 1 – November 7
Open daily for apple picking and corn maze from Sept 1-30. On Saturdays & Sundays, they add in live music, marshmallow roasting, pig races & cider pressing demonstrations. Check out the Zurschmeide Family’s antique 1865 Cider press. Sample freshly pressed cider and see how it used to be produced! Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival is from October  1-31 & Pumpkin Chunkin taking place November November 1, 2 6 & 7. Purchase tickets online.

Leesburg Animal Park (19270 James Monroe Hwy., Leesburg, VA 20175)
September 18 – November 2
Enjoy the giant hill slides, hay wagon rides, pet and feed animals, free apple and cider snack with admission, free mini-pumpkin, kids maze and live entertainment, pedal carts, bounce pillow and live music. Specials on weekends include camel rides and live entertainment. Halloween costume contest on October 31.

Wayside Farm (5273 Harry Byrd Hwy., Berryville, VA 22611)
September 25 – November 7: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, & Mondays
Watch the pig races, get lost in the maze or sit under the tree, head to the playground or animals and play pumpkin checkers. There is a hay mountain and hayrides too. Get lost in the 10-acre corn maze. This year the maze pays homage to our amazing medical professionals who work to keep us all healthy and safe.  

Ticonderoga Farms (26175 Ticonderoga Rd., Chantilly, VA 20152)
Limited opening September 11 – October 24, Weekends for private reservations only
The activities that will be available are slides, swings and teeter totters, tetherballs,  castle, cat dozer, Noah’s Ark play structures, miners sleuth, tot land and pillow.

Cox Farms (15621 Braddock Rd., Centreville, VA 20120)
September 18 – 19 & September 25 – November 7
The Fall Festival is filled with family-friendly entertainment and TONS of attractions including slides, swings, animals, hayrides and more.

Homestead Farm (15604 Sugarland Rd., Poolesville, MD 20837)
Open 7 days a week
Pick your own apples and pumpkins, live animals to see and browse market goodies such as apple cider, mums and honey.

The 28th Annual Loudoun Fall Farm Tour
October 16 and 17
Over two dozen locations are part of this exciting tour through rural Virginia.  Of these many farms, Hope Flower Farm will be open and inviting guests to wander through the blooming dahlia fields, picnic and take photos on the lovely 25 acre farm.

Readers also recommend:
Montpellier Farm
Weber’s Cider Mill
Pumpkin Playground at Burke Nursery

Festivals:
Maryland Renaissance Festival: Now – October 24
H Street Festival: September 18
Fall for Fairfax KidFest: Cancelled this year
Frederick Oktoberfest: October 1 & 2
Weiner 500 Oktoberfest at the Wharf: October 2
Barracks Row OctROWberfest: October 23
Piketoberfest: TBA

Adults only:
Markoff’s Haunted Forest
Field of Screams
Ebe Haunts Trail of Terror
Fields of Fear
Six Flags Fright Fest
Shocktober

Food:
Order new seasonal treats from Milk Bar. Taking the classic fall favorite,  apple cider doughnuts, and remixing it with a uniquely Milk Bar spin, a brand new cake and truffle combo is meant to transport you to your favorite fall memory.

The post Fall festivals, farms, orchards and events in and around Washington, DC appeared first on Beltway Bambinos.

Wednesday, Jul 21 @ 11 AM
Oran Etkin: Timbalooloo– Finding Friends Far From Home

Saturday, Jul 24 @ 11 AM
Dan + Claudia Zanes with Friends– New Beginnings

Tuesday, Jul 27 @ 11 AM
Joanie Leeds– All the Ladies

Wednesday, Jul 28 @ 11 AM
Elena Moon Park and Friends

Saturday, Jul 31 @ 11 AM
Maryland Youth Ballet– Snow White

Tuesday, Aug 03 @ 10:30 AM
Collision of Rhythm

Wednesday, Aug 04 @ 10:30 AM
Yogapalooza with Bari Koral

Saturday, Aug 07 @ 10:30 AM
Danny Weinkauf and his Red Pants Band– Dinosaurs and Metaphors

Tuesday, Aug 10 @ 10:30 AM
Pierce Freelon

Wednesday, Aug 11 @ 10:30 AM
FLY DANCE COMPANY: The Gentlemen of Hip Hop– The Healthy Hip Hop Show

Saturday, Aug 14 @ 10:30 AM
Sonia De Los Santos and The Okee Dokee Brothers– Somos Amigos: Songs on Common Grou

Tuesday, Aug 17 @ 10:30 AM
123 Andrés– Actívate

Wednesday, Aug 18 @ 10:30 AM
Soul In Motion– Transformation

Saturday, Aug 21 @ 10:30 AM
Falu– Falu’s Bazaar

Learn more about Wolf Trap’s guidelines and policies here.

The post Children’s performances at Wolf Trap appeared first on Beltway Bambinos.

Imagination Stage is bringing a free, outdoor show to the Olney Theatre Center’s (OTC) Root Family Stage. The free outdoor performances of Paper Dreams at “Olney Outdoors” will be on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from July 31 to August 15, 2021. Patrons may reserve free tickets in advance online or by calling 301-924-3400.

This show may sound familiar to some, if you have older children. Paper Dreams was originally produced in 2017 as part of Imagination Stage’s My First Imagination Stage programming for very young audiences – best for ages 1-7. The playful dance theatre piece imagines two friends who live inside a wastepaper basket. Together they discover what ideas might unfold from a crumpled piece of paper. Maybe mistakes are okay – perhaps they can inspire our greatest ideas.

The link for more info and to reserve tickets can be found here.

Paper Dreams is part of My First Imagination Stage, programming which focuses on ages 1+ and recognizes “play” as the “work” of early childhood development. Through live performances, workshops, and classes, My First Imagination Stage creates fun and developmentally exciting experiences for the very young and their caregivers. A national leader in Theatre for the Very Young, Imagination Stage began focusing on the youngest of theatergoers in 2010 with the world premiere of Wake Up, Brother Bear! My First Imagination Stage has welcomed guest artists from Italy, Great Britain, and Germany, and
has developed many acclaimed world premiere productions including Mouse on the Move, Inside Out, and Blue.

LOCATION:
Olney Theatre Center’s Root Family Stage
2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, MD 20832

Imagination Stage will have in-person classes this Fall! They are also planning for live and in-person productions to be coming to their theatre this winter. More to come in August!

Related posts:
Spies at Imagination Stage

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Summer bucket list
Indoor/Outdoor summer toys
Water toys that are a summer must have!
Device free road trips and flights
Outdoor music

The post Imagination Stage produces Paper Dreams; a free production at Olney Outdoors appeared first on Beltway Bambinos.