We reviewed 6,000+ Washington-area events to pick the 16 best things to do in Washington, DC this weekend (Aug 21–23). Updated daily.
to see a personalized list by location, interest, and age group.
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…
Enjoy some end‑of‑summer fun at Northwest One Library by exploring the branch and spotting beach‑ and ocean‑themed pictures hidden throughout the space! Kids ages 0–13 can look for seashells, waves, sea creatures, and other summery images at their own pace during library open hours. Find all the pictures and bring your…
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…
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.
Saturday, August 22
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.
DC Public Library and DC Puzzle Swap are teaming up this summer to finish the build on a donated Ravensburger puzzle—first activated at Awesome Con 2026! From now until the end of August, you’re invited to help us finish the build, one Disney scene at a time. Stop by a participating location to pitch in and then join u…
Phillips Educators will lead participants in an exploration of Jacob Lawrence’s The Migration Series, as well as a hands-on art activity inspired by the artworks. Participants will have the chance to experiment, create, and connect with artwork in a new way. This program is designed for learners ages 8 and up and requi…
District Vibes / American Pride: How D.C. Changed American Culture tells the story of D.C. through striking images, artifacts, compelling history, and dynamic programming. Washington, D.C. is more than a federal city—it’s a mosaic of neighborhoods and communities that have nurtured creativity, learning, music, cuisine,…
Join us this month for a showing of Bugonia . The film will be shown with ASL and closed captions right on the screen. *Audio Description is available upon request. Running time:1 hour, 58 minutes Rated: R Sensory Notes: loud sounds For reasonable accommodations, please contact DCPLaccess@dc.gov or 202-727-2142.
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…
Enjoy some end‑of‑summer fun at Northwest One Library by exploring the branch and spotting beach‑ and ocean‑themed pictures hidden throughout the space! Kids ages 0–13 can look for seashells, waves, sea creatures, and other summery images at their own pace during library open hours. Find all the pictures and bring your…
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…
Festivities include: Bilingual Story Time (1:30pm, English and Spanish) Zumba (2:15 -3:00pm) Children's Craft Corner Teen Gaming Lounge Children's Scavenger Hunt Sidewalk Chalk Art See you there!
Calling all tiny fashionistas! Now's your chance to strut your stuff. Join us for our first ever Northeast Library Toddler Runway Show. You bring your child dressed to impress, and we bring the lights, camera and "press". Children who are able to move independently ages 4 and under are welcome to participate. Slots are…