Are you looking for the best summer festivals for families in DMV? Summer has arrived, and for families in the DMV area, that means one thing—festival season is here! From cultural celebrations to mouthwatering food-centric events, there are so many summer festivals for families in the DMV, making it easy to enjoy the warm weather, explore local communities, and make unforgettable memories.
As a mama myself and a family photographer in the DMV area, I know how important it is to find ways to spend time together as a family.
Whether your family loves art, music, food, or outdoor fun, there’s an event on this summer’s calendar for everyone. Here’s your guide to some of the most exciting family-friendly festivals and events in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia this summer.
June Festivals to Kick Off the Summer
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle
Date: June 21–22, 2025
Location: Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
Calling all foodies! The Giant Barbecue Battle is a celebration of summer eats brought to life by pitmasters, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Your kids will love the energy of the bustling street festival while you savor mouthwatering barbecue tastings. Beyond the food, there are family-friendly activities like backyard games and BMX stunt shows, making it one of the best summer festivals for families in DMV.
Manassas Bee Festival
Date: June 21, 2025
Location: Liberia House and Grounds, Manassas, VA
Perfect for nature-loving families, the Manassas Bee Festival highlights the importance of pollinators in our ecosystems. Enjoy honey tastings, interactive crafts, and fun activities like dressing up as bees or butterflies. There’s also an apiary on-site so kids can safely watch busy bees in action. This unique event is as educational as it is entertaining.
July Festivals for Mid-Summer Fun
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Date: July 2–7, 2025
Location: National Mall, Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is a quintessential D.C. experience for families. Celebrating cultures from around the globe, this free event on the National Mall features live music, storytelling, hands-on workshops, and, of course, delicious international food. This year’s theme, Youth and the Future of Culture, focuses on the role of the younger generation in preserving traditions. Pro tip for parents? Arrive early to beat the crowds and give your kids front-row seats to fascinating cultural performances.
July 4th Fireworks Display
Date: July 4, 2025
Location: National Mall and Various Locations, Washington, D.C.
Independence Day in the nation’s capital is a magical experience. Gather the family and find a spot on the National Mall to watch one of the country’s most awe-inspiring fireworks displays. For a quieter viewing experience, consider heading to rooftop terraces or nearby parks. Don’t forget sparklers for the kids to keep their excitement glowing all evening!
Loudoun County Fair
Date: July 22–26, 2025
Location: Leesburg, VA
The Loudoun County Fair is everything you imagine a summer fair should be. Kids will love carnival rides, games, and a petting zoo, while parents can enjoy live music and good, old-fashioned fair food. For a dash of adrenaline, don’t miss the demolition derby and tractor pulls. It’s the perfect environment for families to reconnect with simple pleasures, making it another one of the best summer festivals for families in DMV.
August Festivals to Savor the Season
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
Date: August 8–16, 2025
Location: Gaithersburg, MD
The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair is Maryland’s largest farm celebration and a hit among local families. Spread across 62 acres, it boasts carnival rides, arts and crafts, and tons of animals to meet, from cows to rabbits. Make sure to swing by the food stands for funnel cakes and other classic fair snacks. With daily events and contests, there’s always a reason to return more than once!
DC JazzFest
Date: August 27–31, 2025
Location: Various Venues, Washington, D.C.
Live music is a summer staple, and the DC JazzFest offers a mix of free and ticketed concerts across the city. Enjoy performances by world-class artists in iconic venues like The Wharf, where the waterfront setting is just as dazzling as the music. Don’t worry about your kids sitting still for too long; there are plenty of lively acts and family-friendly performances to keep them tapping their toes.
Summers Farm Sunflower Festival
Date: August 23–September 7, 2025 (Weekends)
Location: Frederick, MD
One of the best summer festivals for families in DMV is the Summers Farm Sunflower Festival. Acres of sunny blooms set the stage for family pictures, while the farm offers tons of hands-on activities for kids, including corn hole, farm golf, and visiting farm animals. Pack a picnic and make a day out of it!
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Date: August 23–October 19, 2025 (Weekends)
Location: Annapolis, MD
Stepping into the Maryland Renaissance Festival feels like traveling back in time. Costumed characters, jousting tournaments, and hearty medieval food transform the grounds into a fantasy world that kids will adore. Encourage your little ones to wear costumes for an extra layer of fun!
Virginia Scottish Games & Festival
Date: August 30–31, 2025
Location: The Plains, VA
Wrap up the summer with this vibrant celebration of Scottish culture. The Virginia Scottish Games feature traditional music, dancing, and athletic events, like caber tossing. Your family can also learn about Scottish heritage through interactive workshops and enjoy the sounds of bagpipes echoing across the festival grounds.
September Festivals to Close Out the Summer
Library of Congress National Book Festival
Date: September 6, 2025
Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C.
For families who love to read together, the Library of Congress National Book Festival is one of the best summer festivals for families in DMV. Meet authors, attend panel discussions, and explore activities tailored for young readers. With its engaging book-themed games and diverse author lineup, the festival makes reading feel like an adventure.
Wrapping It Up: Best Summer Festivals for Families in the DMV
With so many summer festivals for families in DMV, summer 2025 promises to deliver unforgettable moments for you and your loved ones. Why not take it a step further and preserve those precious memories with professional photos? I specialize in capturing the magic of family experiences—all within the comfort of your home or my studio space.
Book a summer photography session today, and I’ll help you turn this summer’s adventures into keepsakes you’ll treasure forever. The best moments deserve to be remembered beautifully!
Want even more resources? Check out some of my other posts below
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Stephanie Honikel is a distinguished DC & Northern Virginia newborn photographer, specializing in maternity, baby, and family photography. With a keen eye for capturing timeless moments, she has been recognized as one of the Best Maternity Photographers in DC for 2024 and Best Newborn Photographers in Alexandria, VA in 2024. Stephanie’s work emphasizes safety and emotional connection, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed session experience. She offers a full-service approach, including professional hair and makeup, wardrobe options, and custom artwork. Reach out today to book your session!
