Weekend Fun: The Best Family Events Around D.C. (July 17-20)

Family events around D.C. this weekend include National Ice Cream Month celebrations
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Celebrate Summer’s Favorite Treat

Summer’s already the optimal time for ice cream, but Ice Cream Month makes it even more necessary to enjoy your favorite dairy treat. Ice Cream Jubilee and the D.C. waterfront neighborhood The Yards are hosting various events throughout the weekend to celebrate, including a free Instagram Live ice cream cake class on Friday and ice cream party box giveaways on Sunday. Friday, July 17, at 4:30 p.m. & Sunday, July 19, from noon-10 p.m.

Dine Amongst the Dead

A dinner and a movie? Why not. In a cemetery? Unexpected, but we’re in. Show up for a picnic at Historic Congressional Cemetery and stay for a screening of “10 Things I Hate About You.” The movie will be introduced by Folger Shakespeare Library staff, who will share some fun facts about Shakespeare play the film is based on. An adult ticket includes dinner and two beverages, and discounted family rates are also available. Friday, July 17, 6:30-10:30 p.m. $30-$50 per dinner. Registration required.

Chow Down with a Cartoon Favorite

If there’s one thing the world needs more of, it’s cartoon character-themed food trucks. The triumphant return of the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck at the Columbia Mall is sure to delight any fans of the feline icon. Come pick up some treats and merch, all while abiding by social distancing guidelines, of course. Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Prices vary.

Game and Grub

Have you been missing your beloved trio of bowling, beverages and bruschetta? So have we. This Friday, Pinstripes is re-opening at all locations, including in D.C. and Bethesda, so you can eat, drink and game as much as your heart desires. But never fear, they’re implementing a bevy of safety precautions, including reduced capacity, stricter cleaning measures and expanded patio space. Any time. Prices vary.

Take a (Virtual) Trip

While many planned vacations have panned out this summer, the Smithsonian has a fun COVID-safe alternative for your family. Their virtual summer road trip at-home guide includes 40 pages of activities, games and educational tidbits on history, STEM and the arts. Several activities are also available in Spanish. Any time. Free.

Take a (Real) Day Trip

The Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons reopens this weekend. Reserve your admission window ahead of time. Then ready the kids to learn about boats, biology, lighthouses and all things Chesapeake Bay. And, there are otters! Any time. $4-$9. Reservations required.


For more family fun, check out Washington FAMILY’s full event calendar. And if you have an event coming up that you’d like to share with our readership, be sure to add it to our calendar.

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