We reviewed 6,000+ Washington-area events to pick the 16 best things to do in the DC area this weekend (Aug 21–23). Updated daily.
to see a personalized list by location, interest, and age group.
Our best picks: things to do in the DC area this weekend (Aug 21–23)
Friday, August 21
Families. The whole family is invited to join us at the Long Branch or Gulf Branch fire ring for lots of old-fashioned fun. This engaging program will be filled with entertaining activities that may include stories, special animal guests, games, songs and of course, S’mores! (We will provide the marshmallows, chocolate…
Spark!Lab is where museum visitors become inventors. The Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation invites children between the ages of 6 and 12 to create, collaborate, explore, test, experiment and invent. Activities for children and families incorporate traditional science, technology, engineering and…
The Reflex: A Tribute to the 1980s Celebrating Everything Summer! Start your summer weekends with amazing tribute bands playing the hits you know and love. Inclement weather can cause event cancellations; check RCC’s Facebook/X pages or call 703-476-4500 close to the event time. Presented by Reston Community Center and…
Join us as we hike through the woods, meadow, and ponds of Maydale exploring the late summer sights and sounds that surround us! Please meet at the lower parking lot. All those six years and older must register, including adults.
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Saturday, August 22
Come join us for a light walk through the woods to explore the diversity of the fungus kingdom, from the littlest mushrooms to giant shelf fungi, to bizarre lichens. We’ll discuss the secret lives of our fungal friends, including their ecology and identification. Teens ages 12 and up welcome to attend with a registered…
Join two days of fast-paced motorsports set in the backdrop of our nation’s most iconic monuments and historic landmarks. Please check the organizer’s website for event activities, schedules, and things to know before you go.
Make a splash at Mermaid Day! Join us for music with DJ Spyder, creative mermaid crafts, and a magical chance to swim with a real mermaid, Seanna.
Join us for an afternoon of chocolate discovery and tasting with Lindt! Whether you're a chocolate enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, this delicious experience is not to be missed! Enjoy a guided tasting of four LINDOR truffle flavors and learn the story behind Lindt, what makes Lindt chocolate unique, and an…
On August 22, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., gather for an exclusive evening with Saint London at Arlo Hotel Rooftop. Presented in partnership with Saint London Suiting by Fedú, the event features a special performance by October London, bringing together fashion, music, and culture for an unforgettable night above Down…
Meet your neighbors around the campfire! Learn a bit about living with local wildlife, roast a marshmallow, play some games, and take a guided evening hike (optional). Marshmallows and roasting sticks provided, bring other treats if you'd like! All attendees over 3 must register; no registration required under 3.
Sunday, August 23
Slow down and experience the park in a whole new way! In this fun, hands-on activity for kids and adults, participants will create a sound map by using their sense of hearing to explore the natural world. Listen for birds, insects, rustling leaves, flowing water, and other sounds that reveal what's happening around you…
Join our educators at this hands-on activity table where creativity takes flight! Perfect for budding engineers and aviation enthusiasts, this interactive program allows visitors to design and build their own creations. — Join our educators at this hands-on activity table where creativity takes flight! Perfect for budd…
Montgomery Parks is a co-sponsor of this event. For up-to-date information visit MontgomeryCountyMD.gov. Montgomery County “Friendship Picnic” will again bring people of diverse cultures and faiths together to make new friends and discuss ways to build a stronger community. The free picnic will be held from noon-5 p.m.…
Bring a blanket or lawn chair, plus join artist Linda S. Campbell for fun, hands-on art projects! Presented by Reston Community Center and Reston Association. Project Locrea Project Locrea (from LO-ve and CREA-tivity) is a multi-cultural jazz-fusion ensemble dedicated to creating and performing original compositions an…
Join us for a screening of Why Dinosaurs? a documentary from the father-son team behind Pinto Productions, presented by MPT and PBS. From prestigious museums and universities, to blockbuster films and toys--dinosaurs have always fascinated us. But, why? Join dino-obsessed teen James Pinto and his filmmaker father as th…
Sounds of the ‘60s Hits from The Beatles, Neil Diamond & More Shenandoah Conservatory’s class of 2027 musical theatre students celebrate the music of the 1960s with a performance featuring hit songs by The Beatles, Neil Diamond and more. Inclement weather can cause event cancellations; check RCC’s Facebook/X pages or c…