Looking for exciting family events this weekend near me in the Washington, DC area? You’ve come to the right place! The weekend of February 28th to March 2nd, 2025, is packed with fantastic activities for families of all ages. From vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations to enriching museum visits and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into the best family-friendly events happening near you this weekend.
Celebrate Mardi Gras with the Family
Embrace the festive spirit of Mardi Gras without leaving the DC area! Several locations are hosting family-oriented celebrations that bring the energy and fun of New Orleans closer to home.
Mardi Gras Celebration at The Wharf
Where: The Wharf, Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 3-7pm
Admission: Free
Experience the Big Easy right here in DC at The Wharf’s Mardi Gras Celebration. This all-ages event is bursting with excitement, featuring colorful floats, towering stilt walkers, and even appearances by the famous Racing Presidents. Enjoy live music that will get you dancing, creative craft stations perfect for kids, and delicious New Orleans-inspired treats to tantalize your taste buds. The celebration culminates in a spectacular fireworks finale, making it a memorable evening for the whole family.
Mardi Gras parade at The Wharf with vibrant floats and stilt walkers
Mardi Gras on the Hill
Where: Barracks Row, Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 2pm onwards
Admission: Free – $10 (for evening concert)
Capitol Hill gets a taste of New Orleans flair with Mardi Gras on Barracks Row. The festivities kick off with two lively sidewalk parades: the Capitol Hill Community Second-line Parade at 2pm, featuring the energetic Potomac Drum Warriors, and an LED Parade showcasing dazzling glowing characters and music later in the evening. Restaurants and shops along Barracks Row will offer special Mardi Gras-themed food and activities throughout the day. For those wanting to extend the celebration, a concert featuring Taoti Creative and The 507 starts at 7pm (ticketed event for ages 13+).
Family Fun Day: Mardi Gras Party at metrobar
Where: metrobar, Eckington, DC
When: Saturday, 12pm onwards
Admission: Free
For a dedicated family-friendly Mardi Gras experience, head to metrobar in Eckington. Arrive early to catch a special appearance and sing-along with Princess Tiana! Plus, enjoy the classic treat of Girl Scout cookies for sale. Nola-inspired food and drinks will be available to complete the festive atmosphere. As the day transitions into evening, a live brass band and DJ will keep the Mardi Gras spirit alive for the adults.
Enriching Museum Adventures for Families
DC is renowned for its incredible museums, and this weekend offers fantastic opportunities for family-friendly museum visits.
First Saturday at the National Gallery of Art
Where: National Gallery of Art, National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Immerse yourselves in art and culture at the National Gallery of Art’s First Saturday event. This month’s series focuses on Haitian art, exploring the “Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti” exhibit. The day is filled with engaging activities, including a captivating performance by Haitian dance ensemble Troupe Zetwal, a hands-on collage art activity for children, and a chance to see fashion designs by Project Runway’s Prajjé O. Jean Baptiste. Adding to the experience, bestselling author Edwidge Danticat will give a talk.
Open Studio: Focus on the Negative at the Hirshhorn Museum
Where: Hirshhorn Museum, National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Spark creativity at the Hirshhorn Museum’s weekly Open Studio program. This Saturday, the theme is “Focus on the Negative,” inspired by sculptor Barbara Hepworth. Families can sculpt their own creations from clay, exploring the concept of negative space and how it interacts with sculpture. This hands-on workshop is a fantastic way for kids to engage with art in a tactile and imaginative way.
WILD Nature Play Club at Anacostia Community Museum
Where: Anacostia Community Museum, Anacostia, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 12:30pm
Admission: Free
Combine music, nature, and learning at the Anacostia Community Museum’s WILD Nature Play Club. This special session features a live family concert with “Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian” friends Nick the Music Man and Pinky Jackalope. After the concert, enjoy a child-directed hike along the George Washington Carver Nature Trail, followed by story time and a nature-themed activity. Remember to bring extra clothes, closed-toe shoes, water, and snacks for a comfortable and engaging outdoor experience. Advance registration is recommended.
Engaging Performances: Theater and Music for Kids
This weekend presents several opportunities to introduce children to the magic of live performances, from musical theater to family-friendly plays.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood at Imagination Stage
Where: Imagination Stage, Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday, 1pm & 4pm
Tickets: $12-39 (discount options available)
Catch the final weekend of “Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood” at Imagination Stage. This delightful Cajun twist on the classic fairytale features Petite Rouge, a red-robed little duck, and her feline friend Te Jean on an adventure through the bayou. They encounter a Big Bad Gator in this Zydeco-infused musical that culminates in a Mardi Gras chase through New Orleans. Recommended for ages 5+, this production promises foot-stomping fun for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Film: Fidil Ghorm [Blue Fiddle] at AFI Silver Theatre
Where: AFI Silver Theatre, Silver Spring, MD
When: Sunday, 1:10pm
Admission: $15
Experience international cinema at the AFI Silver Theatre with “Fidil Ghorm [Blue Fiddle]”, part of the Capital Irish Film Festival. This family-friendly film tells the story of 10-year-old Molly, who believes learning to play the fiddle will awaken her comatose father. Introduce your children to Irish culture and storytelling through this heartwarming film.
Sporting Fun: Hockey and College Basketball
For sports enthusiasts, this weekend offers exciting options, from professional hockey to collegiate basketball games.
Caps Kids Day
Where: Capitol One Arena, Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 12:30pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Cheer on the Washington Capitals as they face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Caps Kids Day! This game is packed with extra fun for young fans, including a special giveaway for the first 5,000 kids to arrive. Enjoy the high-energy hockey action and explore the Penn Quarter neighborhood before or after the game, with plenty of family-friendly dining options and museums nearby.
March to Madness: College Basketball Games
Where: Colleges around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by game
Experience the excitement of college basketball as March Madness approaches. Several local colleges are hosting home games this weekend, offering a variety of matchups to choose from. Options include games from Catholic University, American University, George Washington University, George Mason University, Georgetown University, and University of Maryland. Check the schedules and ticket availability for specific game times and locations to enjoy some local hoops action.
Outdoor Adventures and Play
Take advantage of the late February weather and enjoy the outdoors with these family-friendly activities near me.
Play with Extra Zip at Beauvoir Outdoors
Where: Beauvoir Outdoors, National Cathedral, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Let the kids burn off energy at Beauvoir Outdoors, the playground at the National Cathedral Elementary School. Widely considered one of the best playgrounds in the city, it features climbing structures, slides, and a thrilling zipline that will entertain children of all ages.
Model Rocket Launch at Goddard Space Flight Center
Where: Goddard Space Flight Center
When: Saturday, 1-2pm
Admission: Free
For a unique and educational outdoor experience, attend the monthly Model Rocket Launch at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Witness the excitement of model rockets soaring into the sky. Anyone is welcome, and if you have your own model rocket, you can bring it to launch (subject to restrictions – check the event details).
Hit the Trail: Hiking Around the DMV
Where: Various locations around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery with a family hike this weekend. The DC, Maryland, and Virginia area offers numerous trails suitable for families. Consider exploring Calvert Cliffs State Park for hiking and fossil hunting, Patapsco Valley State Park for diverse hiking options, Rock Creek Park for trails within the city, or Prince William Forest Park for a nature escape.
Ice Skating Wind Down
Where: Ice rinks around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
The outdoor ice skating season is drawing to a close, so this weekend might be your last chance to glide on the ice under the open sky. Several rinks around the DC area are still open, including the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden rink (closing after Sunday). Check local rink schedules for final operating dates and times.
More Weekend Fun Ideas
Looking for even more inspiration? Here are some additional ideas for family events this weekend:
- Celebrate Women’s History Month: March is Women’s History Month, and there are many events and activities around DC to celebrate women’s achievements. Check local listings for exhibits, tours, and performances highlighting women’s contributions.
- Middle School Maker Night at KID Museum: On Friday evening, middle schoolers can enjoy maker activities, pizza, and drinks at the KID Museum in Bethesda.
This weekend in the DC area is brimming with family events to suit every interest. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or festive celebrations, you’ll find plenty of options to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Remember to check event websites for the most up-to-date information and enjoy your weekend!
