Kid-Friendly Things to Do in DC This Weekend
Friday, October 9 - Monday, October 12
Movie Nights in the Park at Color Burst Park
Columbia, MD - FREE
Friday, October 9
Wrap up summer and kick off fall with FREE outdoor movie nights in Merriweather District’s Color Burst Park, hosted by Howard Hughes Communities in partnership with Merriweather Arts and Culture Center. The fun begins before the film starts rolling. From 6:30-7pm, moviegoers can enjoy lawn games, trivia, music, and candy. The film begins at 7:15pm. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in under the stars for a fun evening of family-friendly entertainment. Website
Union Market Drive-in
Washington, DC
Friday, October 9
The drive-in at Union Market screens a different movie on the second Friday of each month from May to September and the first Friday of October. Picnicking is allowed, and food from local vendors is available for purchase. Website
Cabin John Village Movies on the Green
Cabin John, MD - FREE
Friday, October 9
Movies Under the Stars shows a family-friendly film on the big screen the second Friday of each month through September. Live music and kids' activities begin at 6:30pm, and the movies start at sunset. Website
McLean Community Players Presents "The Addams Family"
McLean, VA
Fridays - Sundays, October 9-18
They're creepy, they're kooky, and they're perfect for the whole family. The Addams Family, presented by McLean Community Players, is a laugh-out-loud musical comedy that celebrates love, loyalty, and embracing what makes each of us unique. When Wednesday Addams falls for a perfectly "normal" young man, chaos—and heart—ensue. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of humor for all ages, this delightfully offbeat show is a fun, family-friendly night at the Alden Theatre! Website
Family Day at House of Sweden
Washington, DC - FREE
Saturday, October 10
Bring your children, grandparents, friends, and neighbors for a joyful day of play, learning, and discovery. Explore Swedish traditions, get creative together, and be inspired by the remarkable story of a pioneering Swedish heroine. Website
Savannah Bananas Inaugural Banana Bowl
Washington, DC
Saturday, October 10
All six Banana Ball teams—the Savannah Bananas, Party Animals, Firefighters, Texas Tailgaters, Loco Beach Coconuts, and Indianapolis Clowns – will descend upon Nats Park for the Banana Bowl! Website
Farm Day in Cherry Hill Park
Falls Church, VA - FREE
Saturday, October 10
Farm Day in Cherry Hill Park has fall-themed family activities including a petting farm, pony rides, pumpkin painting, scarecrow making (bring your own long pants and a sleeved shirt), live music, tours of the Cherry Hill Farmhouse and barn, blacksmith demonstrations, and more. Website
City of Fairfax Fall Festival
Fairfax, VA - FREE
Saturday, October 10
Fairfax's fall festival features more than 400 arts, crafts, and food vendors, as well as children's activities and three stages with music and entertainment. Website
Lake Buddies at Chevy Chase Lake
Chevy Chase Lake
8525 Chevy Chase Lake Terrace Chevy Chase, MD 20815
FREE
Saturday, October 10
10:00 am - 12:00 pm ET
Ages: 0-6
Calling all babies and buddies! This series is for every parent and child to enjoy for a morning once a month from June through September. Enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts, face painting, glitter tattoos, and more family fun with your little ones.
Georgetown Canal Day
Washington, DC - FREE
Saturday, October 10
Head to Georgetown for a day of family fun to celebrate the beloved C&O Canal at the first annual Georgetown Canal Day. Enjoy mules, music, games, and hands-on fun for kids. Website
Loudoun Fall Festival
Sterling, VA - FREE
Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11
We’re excited to bring the Loudoun Fall Festival to Dulles Town Center this October! 🍂 This event is all about supporting local makers, small businesses, artists, nonprofits, and the Loudoun community. Website
Kollywood Nights at Hylton Performing Arts Center
Manassas, VA
Sunday, October 11
Following the tremendous success of previous years (2017– 2019; 2022– 2025), KC Dance has consistently won the hearts of audiences through vibrant Nepalese dances, songs, comedy, and cultural performances. This year promises to be even more exciting and entertaining! Website
Ethiopian Fall Festival 2026 (at Chinquapin Park)
Alexandria, VA
Sunday, October 11
Join the 6th annual Ethiopian Fall Festival, a joyful, family-friendly celebration of culture, community, and connection. Enjoy live music, traditional dance, delicious food, local vendors, kids’ activities, and access to vital resources. Everyone is welcome! Website
Touch-a-Truck at McLean Community Center
McLean, VA - FREE
Monday, October 12
If your children love vehicles, visit Touch-a-Truck! This free event allows kids to touch, sit in, and explore some of their favorite cars and trucks. Website
MCPL's 75th Anniversary Drive-In (at Germantown Library)
Germantown, MD - FREE
Monday, October 12
Celebrate 75 years of MCPL by stepping back 75 years in time with a ’50s-style drive-in movie night. Kids ages 3–8 can decorate cardboard boxes to become their own “cars,” then settle in for a screening of a classic 1951 animated adventure fans of Lewis Carroll are certain to enjoy. Popcorn will be served during the program. Website