Spring is the perfect time for outdoor events, so community festivals are common. These three weekend events all focus on education and creativity, encouraging kids to discover art, reading, science and more through fun, hands-on activities. Even adults might learn something new!
Smithsonian Craft Show
April 24-27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
National Building Museum | 401 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
Take your craft fair shopping game to the next level at this showcase of some of the best craft artists in the country which acts as a fundraiser for the Smithsonian as well as a great place to buy gifts. The 120 vendors selected for this fair are masters of their crafts, which range from clothing to ceramics and everything in between.
$20-$25 | smithsoniancraftshow.org
STAR Fest 2025
April 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library | 901 G St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
STAR Fest encourages kids to develop early skills that will help them become better readers and writers later in life. STAR stands for Sing, Talk and Read, and the activities at this free community festival are dedicated to sharpening those skills through live music, imaginative storytelling games, family story times and more. Families can also sign up for Books from Birth to have free books delivered to their house every month!
Free | dclibrary.libnet.info
Maryland Day 2025
April 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
University of Maryland – College Park Campus | College Park, MD 20742
The University of Maryland holds this free day of fun every year, highlighting offerings from its many schools through family-friendly activities. This year’s lineup includes an ice cream-making workshop, literature-inspired temporary tattoos, an insect petting zoo and photo opportunities with UMD’s mascot, Testudo the Terrapin.
Free | marylandday.umd.edu
