Find your fun this summer with a lineup that brings together live music, outdoor movies, and can't-miss events all in
AND MORE!
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SUMMER FUN @ WOLF TRAP
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Looking for the Flying Circus air show, a spray ground or spray park, Play Palooza, or Wolf Trap’s Children’s Theater-in-the-Woods? You’re in the right place!
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
Join Veterans and their families at this annual event to thank, honor, and celebrate those who served our country — and this year carries extra meaning as the nation marks America’s 250th birthday!
The parade steps off promptly in the late morning, with divisions led by this year’s Grand Marshal. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and plan accordingly due to parking restrictions along the parade route.
Outback’s Joey Menu has plenty of kid-approved picks to choose from.
Dining in? Mention “Free Joey Meal” to your server. Ordering delivery? Use promo code JOEYFREE at checkout. Delivery orders must be placed directly through Outback’s website — the offer is not valid through third-party delivery services like DoorDash, UberEats, or Grubhub.
Receive one free kids’ meal per full-price adult entree purchased. Offer excludes applicable taxes and gratuity, has no cash value, and cannot be combined with other offers. Void where prohibited by law.
Since participation varies by location, always confirm with your local Outback before heading out or placing an order. Click for important details and disclaimers.
Scotto’s Rigatoni Grill is already your family’s go-to restaurant for the best homemade pizza and Italian dishes!
Make your meal even better on Wednesdays when kids eat free from the children’s menu (12 & under) with the purchase of any adult entree or pasta, plus this coupon. Your little one can choose from a slice of pizza, cheese ravioli, spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, and more on the children’s menu.
Like this? Check out more ways for kids to eat free or on the cheap:
Dine-in only. Please mention the coupon when ordering. This offer includes one free meal per transaction, per order, per family; not valid for carryout, delivery, or with any other offer or coupon. One coupon per person, per visit.
You’re invited to see your favorite movies in high definition on the big screen at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center. Even better, the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) will bring the film’s music to life as you watch!
July 9, 2026 Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert
A long time ago, in a concert hall not so far away… the epic finale of the original trilogy comes to life as the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) performs John Williams’ unforgettable, Oscar-nominated score live alongside the full feature film. From the thrilling Battle of Endor to the triumphant return of the Jedi, experience every iconic moment with the power of a full symphony!
July 11, 2026 Disney’s The Little Mermaid in Concert
The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) breathes new life into Disney’s animated classic The Little Mermaid. Featuring a screening of the full film with songs and score by Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman, sing along to symphonic renditions of Ariel’s soaring “Part of Your World” and Ursula’s villainous “Poor Unfortunate Souls.”
Aug 27, 2026 Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert
Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok, and magic mirrors in high definition while the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) performs John Williams’ iconic score. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event as Harry, Ron, Hermione, and all your favorite characters return to the screen and enchant the world all over again.
Sept 5, 2026 Hook in Concert
Follow the second star to the right, and straight on ’til morning! Steven Spielberg’s beloved epic Hook celebrates its 35th anniversary with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), bringing John Williams’ GRAMMY-nominated score to life with the full film on screen.
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
Gaylord National Resort’s signature holiday tradition, ICE, is back with an all-new theme: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas from November 14, 2026-January 3, 2027.
An experience like no other — here’s what it takes to build this frozen wonderland…
2 million pounds of ice — 6,700 massive blocks
Hand-carved by 40 master artisans who travel more than 6,000 miles from Harbin, China
Don’t worry about the cold (it’s a frosty 9° inside)! Upon admission, Gaylord provides its signature oversized blue parkas to keep all ages warm.
The self-guided experience has no time limits, so kids and kids-at-heart can take it all in at their own pace. Once inside, explore…
10 iconic scenes from the beloved story, from the Grinch’s chilly lair to his sleigh full of stolen presents
Favorite characters to spot along the way, including the Grinch, Cindy-Lou Who, and Max
Two-story slides made of pure ice
Keep an eye out for the artisans, too — a few stay on-site all season to preserve the sculptures and perform live carving demonstrations daily.
Make a day of it! Bundle passes pair ICE! with more festive fun, including ice tubing, a scavenger hunt, gingerbread decorating, ice skating, and more. Special ticket offers are available for AAA members, military, teachers, and more, and day visitors can save time with prepaid parking.
Bundle up — the area’s most enchanting holiday tradition under the stars is back!
Reston Association’s Winterfest returns for its fourth year from December 3-5, 2026, transforming Brown’s Chapel Park into a dazzling winter wonderland. This year’s attractions include:
Light Up the Park
Take a magical half-mile stroll through the park, illuminated by thousands of sparkling holiday lights!
Enchanted Forest
Wander among beautifully decorated holiday trees sponsored by local businesses, community organizations, and families. After the event, Friends of Reston donates all trees to Reston families in need.
New! Polar Play Park
Little ones will love this frosty new addition! Explore stunning ice carvings and interactive ice games, plus a DJ and snowmaking throughout the evening (weather permitting).
Santa Experience
Get your lists (& your camera!) ready to share when you visit with the man of the season! Enjoy a complimentary photo opportunity with Santa.
Grinch’s Village
Step into the Grinch’s whimsical village for family-friendly fun, festive activities, and memorable photo ops.
Vendor Village
Browse unique gifts and holiday treasures from local vendors while supporting small businesses in the community.
Fire Pits & Seasonal Treats
Warm up by the fire and roast marshmallows, then refuel with seasonal refreshments and a lineup of local food trucks, including Kay’s Mini Doughnuts, Lupita’s Taqueria, and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee.
Last year’s festival drew more than 10,000 visitors over three nights, so purchase tickets in advance (recommended)!
Jules Hoffman brings joyful, inclusive kids’ music to life with sing-alongs, movement, and playful learning. Joined by Poppy the Puppet, this show sparks creativity, empathy, and fun for the whole family. Learn more.
Ants on a Log teams up with Melissa Smith for an upbeat, interactive concert filled with music, fun facts, and positive messages inspired by her bug-themed book. Learn more.
Soul in Motion delivers an electrifying African drum-and-dance performance with powerful rhythms, dynamic movement, and storytelling that celebrate joy, unity, and connection. Learn more.
Amazing Max brings a high-energy, laugh-filled magic show to Wolf Trap, delighting kids and parents with clever tricks, silly stories, and interactive moments that make every performance feel one of a kind. Learn more.
Meki’s Tamure Arts Group delivers a lively, family-friendly drum-and-dance showcase inspired by Polynesian island life, blending music, storytelling, and cultural traditions from Tahiti, Hawaii, New Zealand, and beyond. Learn more.
Rhythmaya Dance brings a vibrant, interactive Bollywood-inspired performance filled with color, rhythm, and energy, inviting audiences to join the fun and experience Indian dance — no experience needed, just a love for music. Learn more.
In this bilingual musical retelling, audiences follow Ricitos (Goldilocks) exploring the three bears’ home, blending songs, humor, and heartfelt moments that highlight compassion, forgiveness, and friendship. Learn more.
Omnium Circus delivers a high-energy spectacle filled with award-winning artistry, music, and laughter, as its multi-abled cast performs extraordinary feats that inspire and showcase the human spirit’s limitless potential. Learn more.
Mega Ran, a former middle school teacher turned GRAMMY-nominated children’s artist, delivers high-energy hip-hop that’s fun and empowering, and celebrates confidence, creativity, and learning. Learn more.
Swing Makes You Sing brings a lively, family-friendly jazz experience filled with upbeat tunes, playful learning, and plenty of movement — introducing kids to swing, blues, improvisation, and self-expression while celebrating the joy of jazz. Learn more.
Princess Backpack brings a silly, high-energy show as creator Benjamin and his puppet sidekick lead audiences through Backpackia, mixing live-looping funk, playful folk tunes, and laugh-out-loud moments. Learn more.
Riffin’ Griffin delivers a high-energy, kid-friendly rock show that blends upbeat music with playful, educational elements — creating a fun, one-of-a-kind experience the whole family can rock out to. Learn more.
Flor Bromley, a GRAMMY-nominated singer and storyteller, brings a vibrant bilingual concert celebrating her album Herstory, blending Latin culture and global sounds in an interactive, music-filled experience full of rhythm, laughter, and inspiration. Learn more.
Deep in El Yunque National Forest, audiences follow Sofia’s journey to discover the rhythms of Bomba, as Semilla Cultural blends storytelling, dance, and live music with interactive songs and vibrant Puerto Rican traditions. Learn more.
In this wordless puppet performance, a curious squid journeys through Antarctica in search of friendship, encountering penguins, orcas, and jellyfish in a heartwarming tale featuring handcrafted puppets and ocean-inspired scenery. Learn more.
Professor Livingpebble brings a wacky, family-friendly science comedy show filled with laughs, fun facts, and interactive moments, joined by Lizzy the life-sized (and vegan) velociraptor — sparking curiosity about dinosaurs, fossils, and the prehistoric world. Learn more.
Maryland Youth Ballet brings Sleeping Beauty to life in an enchanting, family-friendly performance that introduces kids to the beauty of ballet, blending fairy-tale magic, graceful movement, and a timeless story that audiences love. Learn more.
Joanie Leeds returns to Wolf Trap with a joyful, family-friendly concert celebrating the special bond between kids and grandparents, joined by her daughter Joya for an uplifting mix of music, storytelling, and cross-generational connection. Learn more.
Native Arts Collaborative brings a vibrant showcase of Indigenous dance and culture, blending traditional regalia, storytelling, and movement into a high-energy performance that celebrates history, artistry, and community. Learn more.
River City Puppets brings an enchanting, family-friendly adventure as an inquisitive fisherman uncovers the truth behind a mysterious river monster, blending handmade puppets, humor, and audience participation into a playful tale of friendship. Learn more.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, a musical journey, brings the beloved story to life in a laugh-out-loud, high-energy performance as the mischievous Pigeon steps in to save the day — inviting audiences to clap, dance, and join the fun. Learn more.
Enjoy a magical train ride this season to get into the holiday spirit! From Virginia to Maryland and Pennsylvania, holiday train rides are open for booking (and sell out fast!).
Head down to Old Town for a delightful train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus! This annual round-trip excursion hosted by Whistle Stop Hobbies departs King Street Station and travels to Manassas, VA.
A few weeks before Christmas, families are invited to board a Virginia Railway Express train with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and bask in the holiday spirit! Santa’s helpers also join the ride, handing out candy canes and coloring books and making the day a magical adventure.
MARYLAND
Nov 21-Dec 24, 2026 The Polar Express
Cumberland, MD ∙ Approx 130 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 21-December 24, 2026, wear your pajamas for a 60-minute mountain run from Cumberland to the North Pole on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. A live reading of the story and sing-alongs to songs from the film fill the ride; hot chocolate and a cookie are served on board, and every passenger goes home with a commemorative silver sleigh bell.
Nov 27-Dec 24, 2026 Santa Train
Walkersville, MD ∙ Approx 50 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 27-December 24, 2026, Santa visits with every family for photos and a small gift on this 70-minute round trip aboard the Walkersville Southern Railroad. Trains run rain, snow, or shine, and kids under 2 ride free on a lap.
Nov 28-Dec 22, 2026 The Polar Express
Baltimore, MD ∙ Approx 60 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 28-December 22, 2026, pull on your coziest pajamas for a two-hour ride inspired by the beloved holiday classic, with a live performance of “Hot Chocolate,” hot cocoa and a sugar cookie served by dancing chefs, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa himself. The train pulls into a North Pole winter wonderland at the B&O Railroad Museum, where holiday crafts, s’mores, and a keepsake photo with Santa keep the magic going.
Nov 28-Dec 23, 2026 Holly Trolley Fest
Colesville, MD ∙ Approx 40 miles from Dulles Airport
Make some holiday memories at the National Capital Trolley Museum’s Holly TrolleyFest! On weekends from November 28-December 23, 2026, families are invited to ride a historic streetcar, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, explore a holiday model railroad display, and more!
Dec 4-18, 2026 Christmas Lights Train
Walkersville, MD ∙ Approx 50 miles from Dulles Airport
On Fridays, from December 4-18, 2026, climb aboard a decorated evening train and roll past neighborhoods dressed up for the holidays. Riders vote for their favorite light display to help crown the season’s winner.
WEST VIRGINIA
Nov 14-Dec 31, 2026 North Pole Express
Romney, WV ∙ Approx 95 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 14-December 31, 2026, climb aboard a vintage Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad train for a 75-minute ride north, with storytelling, caroling, and milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies along the way. Santa boards at the North Pole with a gift for every child, and the event barn back at the station adds letters to Santa, coloring stations, and a nativity with live animals.
Nov 20-Dec 31, 2026 Holiday Trough
Romney, WV ∙ Approx 95 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 20-December 31, 2026, the holiday edition of Potomac Eagle’s signature run travels 35 miles south through Trough Canyon and across Sycamore Bridge, with holiday music, decorated cars, and a seasonal meal served on board. Keep an eye out for bald eagles along the river. The full trip runs three hours with no layover.
PENNSYLVANIA
Nov 21-Dec 20, 2026 Santa’s Express
West Chester, PA ∙ Approx 145 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 21-December 20, 2026, Santa greets passengers at Market Street Station, then rides the full 75-minute round trip to Glen Mills and back through the Chester Creek Valley, stopping at every seat with goodies and photos. Live entertainment plays throughout, and you can buy refreshments on board, so send the kids with their wish lists.
Nov 21-Dec 23, 2026 Night Before Christmas
Ronks, PA ∙ Approx 140 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 21-December 23, 2026, settle in for a cozy evening ride that has been a Strasburg Railroad tradition for nearly 15 years. The cast recites the Clement Clarke Moore classic along with other festive stories, carolers sing and dance through a medley of favorites, and milk and cookies come with a possible glimpse of Santa on his busiest night of the year.
On select days, from November 21-December 24, 2026, carolers and brass players perform holiday favorites on this 45-minute ride through the Amish countryside; Santa’s helpers hand each child a gift from the North Pole, and the big man himself pays a visit. Arrive early to catch the live Christmas revue shows on the Town Square Stage.
Nov 27-29, 2026 Christmas Elves Express
New Freedom, PA ∙ Approx 100 miles from Dulles Airport
From November 27-29, 2026, Santa’s elves — Finnigan Frost, Trixie Toymaker, Gabby Gumdrop, and Iceberg Ike — accidentally spill a magical Forgetfulness Potion and lose track of who Santa even is! Passengers spend the 75-minute Northern Central Railway ride helping them remember, with sing-alongs, silly pranks, dancing, and snow along the way.
Nov 29-Dec 13, 2026 Christmas Tree Train
West Chester, PA ∙ Approx 145 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from November 29-December 13, 2026, an 8 am departure from Market Street Station takes families to Wiggins Tree Farm, where hand saws are provided, and everyone picks and cuts their own tree. The tree rides home banded and tagged on the flat car while passengers warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, and fresh donuts from the snack bar. Trees are bought separately from the farm, cash or check only, and Santa does not ride this one.
Dec 2-18, 2026 Santa Claus Limited
Ronks, PA ∙ Approx 140 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from December 2-18, 2026, Strasburg Railroad runs these weekday evening trains as a more sensory-friendly option than its busier weekend departures. The 45-minute ride rolls through the Lancaster countryside and includes a visit from Santa Claus.
Dec 5-23, 2026 Santa Express
New Freedom, PA ∙ Approx 100 miles from Dulles Airport
On select days, from December 5-23, 2026, board at the historic New Freedom Train Station for an hour-long ride to Glen Rock in 1800s coach cars decked out for the season. Every child gets a turn with Kris Kringle, who has a gift on hand for anyone on the nice list. Afterward, head into the NCR Engine House for complimentary hot chocolate and a cookie, a look at the model train room, and a strolling fiddler.
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
