Pride Month continues to thrive across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, with an array of community events filled with celebration and diversity.
This weekend marks a time to honor fathers as we recognize Father’s Day and anticipate Juneteenth celebrations in various locations including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, Vienna, and Fairfax, before the official holiday next week.
One of the most significant events is the Army 250th Anniversary Military Parade and Festival happening on Saturday at the National Mall. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the Army’s milestone with a series of festivities.
The day is packed with activities starting from the early morning, including an Army Fitness Competition and Awards from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the National Mall. For those wanting to join the celebrations, the Army Birthday Festival will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The parade kicks off at 6:30 p.m. along Constitution Avenue, followed by a concert and fireworks display that will light up the National Mall around 7:30 or 8 p.m., concluding the evening’s celebrations.
For those planning to attend, guest entry for the fitness competition and festival opens at 8 a.m., while parade entry is expected to start at 2 p.m. Participants are encouraged to register in advance, as there are no tickets available for this open event.
Be mindful of potential road closures and travel disruptions, especially around Reagan National Airport, as the city gears up for large crowds.
If you prefer a quieter celebration, the National Army Museum in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, is hosting a free event as an alternative.
On Sunday, music lovers can enjoy ‘Go-Go on the Rooftop’ from 1-5 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Events are set to bring the vibrant sounds of go-go to the roof of the library, with performances from Proper Utensils featuring James Thomas, a noted musician from the renowned Rare Essence.
The MLK Library’s rooftop will showcase live music every Sunday this month, with exciting appearances by various bands scheduled through the end of June. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks, making for an enjoyable afternoon atmosphere.
Also this weekend, fans of alternative music will want to check out the Vans Warped Tour taking place at RFK Festival Grounds on Saturday and Sunday. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this iconic festival features an impressive lineup of artists including 3OH!3, All Time Low, and Avril Lavigne, among many others. For those unable to attend in person, there will be a livestream of the event.
Food lovers and music fans can look forward to the Columbia Pike Blues Festival on Saturday from 1 to 8:30 p.m. in Arlington, where local and outside talent, including Everyday Everybody and Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark, will rock the stage. The festival, in its 28th year, also features a variety of local vendors offering food and drinks.
Meanwhile, the 47th Annual ALX Jazz Fest at Waterfront Park in Alexandria will offer a robust lineup starting at 3 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a mix of musical performances, hands-on art projects, lawn games, and food options in a family-friendly environment.
Families will also want to check out the new ‘Masterpiece Mini-Golf’ opening at Workhouse Art Center in Lorton on Friday. This mini-golf course integrates art history into each hole, inviting players to learn about artists and their works while enjoying a fun day of golf. Pricing is $8 for 9 holes and $15 for the full 18 holes.
For weekend explorers, Mudfest in Dickerson on Saturday will be a dream for kids who thrive in muddy play. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., children can enjoy giant man-made mud pits, slides, and castles for a parking fee of $20 per car. Participants should come prepared to get messy and enjoy a day of fun!
Those who love community events can partake in ‘Trolley Trail Day’ on Saturday along the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail. Activities span from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., featuring live music, crafts, fitness classes, and fun activities in various locations including Hyattsville, Riverdale Park, and College Park. Local eateries are also offering deals throughout the day, adding to the festive atmosphere.
For theater enthusiasts, the ‘Shakespeare In the Parks’ presents ‘The Comedy of Errors’ on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at Greenbelt Park. This enchanting production will bring the classic to life under the stars. No registration is required, making it a perfect family outing.
As part of the Home Rule Music Festival that celebrates D.C. music and culture, Friday evening will feature a showcase for young local artists at Woolly Mammoth Theater Company. Tickets range from $15 to $25, with the main festival happening the following Saturday.
More live music events are happening throughout the weekend, including The Heavy Heavy at The Atlantis and Karate at Black Cat, showcasing a mix of indie and experimental rock genres.
In Virginia, numerous events complement the festivities of Pride Month, including activities at the Torpedo Factory on Friday celebrating diversity, and Juneteenth celebrations at First Baptist Church in Vienna.
On Saturday, attendees can expect the Columbia Pike Blues Festival and the 47th Annual ALX Jazz Fest in Alexandria, among other events celebrating local music styles.
Looking for family-friendly activities? The MoCA on the Move series will offer free family fun on Sunday at Metropolitan Park, along with several free events that encompass music, art, and cultural experiences.
For those seeking a peaceful and artistic experience, the Milk Tree pop-up art installation is available for visitation this weekend in Friendship Heights without an entry fee.
With a wealth of options for celebrating Pride Month, Father’s Day, and the upcoming Juneteenth, this weekend promises a vibrant array of events for everyone to enjoy in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
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