We reviewed 6,000+ Washington-area events to pick the 18 best free things to do in Washington, DC between August 17 and August 23. Updated daily.
to see a personalized list by location, interest, and age group.
Tuesday, August 18
Come explore the rainforest! Join us for creative, drop-in play at the Zoo as we explore the different plants and animals that live in the Amazon rainforest. Little Critters: Nature Play is designed for ages 0-5 and their caregivers and families. Activities are designed with early learners in mind, but all ages are wel…
Wednesday, August 19
This learning space designed especially for children ages six and under combines age appropriate activities with museum collections and touchable objects to provide a gateway to history and a place to exercise curiosity for the youngest historians. Admission to Wonderplace is on a first come, first-served basis. At bus…
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…
Thursday, August 20
Do you want to connect with nature but you’re not sure how to get started? Do you want to be more present outside and escape the distractions of the modern era? Take a junior naturalist hike with a ranger and learn how to observe and study the natural world around you as you hike between ½ - 1 ½ miles through the Rock…
Come explore the rainforest! Join us for creative, drop-in play at the Zoo as we explore the different plants and animals that live in the Amazon rainforest. Little Critters: Nature Play is designed for ages 0-5 and their caregivers and families. Activities are designed with early learners in mind, but all ages are wel…
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…
This learning space designed especially for children ages six and under combines age appropriate activities with museum collections and touchable objects to provide a gateway to history and a place to exercise curiosity for the youngest historians. Admission to Wonderplace is on a first come, first-served basis. At bus…
Friday, August 21
If you have a little one to take care of and are looking for something fun to do, come read and sing all about nature with a park ranger! This program includes nature books, animal puppets, body movements, and songs. Due to high summer temperatures, we will only be doing this program at Peirce Mill Barn for the month o…
Experience the art of basket weaving in a welcoming community setting with Valencia Wilson. This hands-on workshop blends simple weaving techniques with mindful movement and meaningful connection. No experience is needed, all materials are provided.
Join us for a docent-led experience and get a fresh look at the Museum's featured object. At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object. About this program: Visitors learn about the African art that inspired the design of the Museum and explore the building’s unique archi…
Saturday, August 22
11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. ET Gardening with native plants can be very rewarding. Author Stephen Allten Brown will talk about how he and his wife metamorphosed their suburban yard into an inspiring nature preserve for wildlife and pollinators. He will guide participants, so they too can create a charming home panorama with nat…
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.
This learning space designed especially for children ages six and under combines age appropriate activities with museum collections and touchable objects to provide a gateway to history and a place to exercise curiosity for the youngest historians. Admission to Wonderplace is on a first come, first-served basis. At bus…
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…
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…
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…
This learning space designed especially for children ages six and under combines age appropriate activities with museum collections and touchable objects to provide a gateway to history and a place to exercise curiosity for the youngest historians. Admission to Wonderplace is on a first come, first-served basis. At bus…
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…