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Chincoteague Island Pony Swim

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Chincoteague Island Pony Swim
‹‹ Even More Summer Fun

Chincoteague Island, best known for its wild ponies, is home to one of the most iconic wildlife events on the East Coast — the world-famous Chincoteague Pony Swim. Join them July 25-31, 2026!

Rooted in tradition and local heritage, this breathtaking spectacle features the Saltwater Cowboys guiding a herd of wild ponies and their foals from neighboring Assateague Island across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague. This annual event is vital to managing the size of the wild herd and keeping it healthy and sustainable. When the sun goes down, spectators can head over to the nightly Chincoteague Fireman’s Carnival for rides, games, and famous local seafood!

Check out the 2026 spectator schedule below. Be sure to connect with this event online for important viewing details, parking maps, and shuttle information.

July 25, 2026
Southern Herd Roundup
Watch the famous Saltwater Cowboys begin rounding up the wild ponies that live on the southern end of Assateague Island. Spectators can view the herd as they are guided into the Southern Corral.

July 27, 2026
The Beach Walk
At sunrise, the Saltwater Cowboys will guide the northern ponies along the Atlantic shoreline to join the southern herd. This spectacular beach trek is the public’s first opportunity to see the entire wild herd together.

July 29, 2026
Pony Swim & Parade
This is the day! At slack tide, the Saltwater Cowboys swim the ponies across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. After a short rest, the ponies are paraded down Main Street to the carnival grounds. Arrive early to secure your viewing spot along the channel!

July 30, 2026
Pony Auction
Foals are auctioned at the carnival grounds, with proceeds supporting herd management and the local fire company. It’s an incredibly high-energy event for spectators!

July 31, 2026
Return Swim to Assateague
The adult ponies make their peaceful swim back to Assateague Island. This quieter event is a hidden gem — less crowded and a great chance to watch the ponies as they graze along the shore and gradually make their way back into the wild.

Details:
Website

Dates:
July 25-31, 2026

Location:
Chincoteague Island, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Starlight Cinema

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Starlight Cinema at Sully Historic Site
‹‹ More Summer Movie Fun

The big screen is shining bright this summer at Sully Historic Site! Starlight Cinema delivers a month of outdoor movie magic with family-friendly films! Even better? It’s all free!

Details:
Website

Dates:
Weekly, Aug 1-29, 2026

Important:
Shows are weather-dependent and subject to last-minute changes and cancellations. For updates, call the series hotline one hour before the program start time: 703-324-7469.

Location:
Sully Historic Site ∙ Chantilly, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Updated July 24, 2026

Little Flower Consignment Sale

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‹‹ More Consignment Sales

On September 26, 2026, Little Flower Consignments invites you to shop for the fall!

Hosted at St. Theresa’s Catholic School in Ashburn, VA, the event features a wide variety of baby and children’s clothing, accessories, toys, baby gear, maternity clothing, furniture, and more!

Check out their schedule online for details on their pre-sales, public sale, half-price sale, and Clear the Racks sale!

Details:
Website ∙ Facebook

Date:
Sept 26, 2026

Location:
St. Theresa’s Catholic School ∙ Ashburn, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

20+ Places to Get Presidential in the DMV

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By DullesMoms, September 2026

Explore our country’s past presidents and the men and women who supported them! Check out these 25+ places to get presidential in the DMV:

Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, VA

John F. Kennedy is one of only two US presidents buried at Arlington National Cemetery, the final resting place of more than 400,000 veterans and their families. His gravesite, marked by an eternal flame, is a moving stop for visitors of all ages.

Decatur House
Washington, DC

Just across from the White House in Lafayette Square, Decatur House invites visitors to step into Washington’s historic presidential neighborhood and learn the stories of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the property.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
Washington, DC

Just off the National Mall, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial celebrates the 34th president’s remarkable journey from Kansas boyhood to five-star general to the White House. Families can check the website for operating status before heading out.

Ford’s Theatre Museum
Washington, DC

Ford’s Theatre Museum takes visitors back in time to explore the life and legacy of the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, along with the fateful night of his assassination.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Washington, DC

Waterfalls, sculptures, and stirring quotes from the nation’s 32nd president fill the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, which unfolds across four outdoor “rooms,” one for each of FDR’s terms. Check the website for operating hours before heading out.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial
Alexandria, VA

Perched atop Shooter’s Hill, the George Washington Masonic National Memorial honors President George Washington’s commitment to Freemasonry, and its observation deck offers sweeping views of Alexandria. Curious minds can learn more about the Masons here.

Gunston Hall
Lorton, VA

Just down the Potomac from Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall was home to Founding Father George Mason, a longtime friend and neighbor of George Washington. Mason’s Virginia Declaration of Rights inspired Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence and helped shape the US Bill of Rights, making this historic estate a rewarding stop for young presidential history buffs.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Washington, DC

Named in 1964 as a living memorial to the nation’s 35th president, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts welcomes visitors to tour this special landmark on the banks of the Potomac.

Lady Bird Johnson Park
Arlington, VA

Set on an island in the Potomac River, Lady Bird Johnson Park honors the nation’s 36th First Lady with blooming gardens and stunning views of the DC skyline.

Lincoln Memorial
Washington, DC

Dedicated to the nation’s 16th president, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most visited sites on the National Mall, and the view from its steps across the Reflecting Pool never disappoints!

Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove
Arlington, VA

Tucked along the Potomac, the serene Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove honors the 36th president with shady trees, winding paths, and a granite monolith from his home state of Texas.

Mount Rushmore
Keystone, SD ∙ Virtual

A virtual visit to Mount Rushmore brings Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt right into the living room — no road trip required!

George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA

George Washington’s Mount Vernon invites families to explore the beloved estate of the nation’s first president, from the mansion and gardens to the grounds overlooking the Potomac.

National Archives
Washington, DC

The National Archives Museum offers an inspiring, up-close look at the nation’s original founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

National Museum of American History
Washington, DC ∙ Online

For families looking to rest their feet, the National Museum of American History offers an online presidential exhibit that’s sure to knock their socks off!

National Museum of American History
Washington, DC

From policy advocates to trendsetters and everything in between, the American History Museum’s First Ladies exhibit celebrates their many contributions and is a must-see!

National Portrait Gallery
Washington, DC

Portraits, presidents, and politics, oh my! The National Portrait Gallery’s America’s Presidents exhibit offers a picturesque peek at the nation’s leaders, past and present.

President Lincoln’s Cottage
Washington, DC

At President Lincoln’s Cottage, visitors can step inside the very space where the 16th president made decisions that changed the course of the nation’s history.

President Woodrow Wilson House
Washington, DC

Tucked into DC’s elegant Kalorama neighborhood, this post-presidential residence of the nation’s 28th president is lovingly preserved as a museum by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

President’s Heads
Croaker, VA

After the original outdoor museum closed in 2010, forty 18- to 20-foot presidential busts found a new home on private property in Croaker, near Williamsburg. You can see the President’s Heads only on scheduled, pre-ticketed tours, making for one quirky, unforgettable photo op!

Theodore Roosevelt Island
Arlington, VA

A peaceful escape in the middle of the Potomac, Theodore Roosevelt Island offers wooded walking trails and a memorial plaza featuring a towering statue of the nation’s 26th president, a fitting tribute to a lifelong conservationist.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Washington, DC

An ode to classical architecture, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial features a grand rotunda and a bronze statue of the Founding Father and third president, all framed by picture-perfect Tidal Basin views.

Tudor Place Historic House & Garden
Washington, DC

Nestled in Georgetown, Tudor Place was home to descendants of Martha Washington and holds a treasure trove of George and Martha Washington artifacts, a collection second only to Mount Vernon’s.

US Capitol Grounds
Washington, DC

Beyond the iconic dome, the Capitol campus features monuments honoring presidents Ulysses S. Grant and James A. Garfield, perfect for a presidential scavenger hunt!

Washington Monument
Washington, DC

No visit to DC is complete without a stop at the Washington Monument, the towering obelisk honoring George Washington that anchors the National Mall.

Washington National Cathedral
Washington, DC

Inside the magnificent Washington National Cathedral, visitors can find Wilson Bay, the final resting place of the 28th president, Woodrow Wilson.

White House Visitor Center
Washington, DC

The White House has been the home and workplace of every US president since John Adams, and the nearby Visitor Center brings its story to life with historical exhibits curated by the National Park Service and the White House Historical Association.

Looking for Ford’s Theater, the FDR Memorial, the LBJ Memorial Grove, the Presidents’ Heads at Presidents Park, Mt Vernon, or Mt Rushmore? You’re in the right place!

Updated Sept 21, 2026

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Town Square Park Summer Fun

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‹‹ Even More Summer Fun

Boogie on down to Reston Town Square Park this summer for free children’s entertainment! This beloved summer series at Reston Town Center is great for all ages.

This year’s weekend lineup (with free garage parking) includes:

July 4, 2026
Zack Smith & the Mardi Gras Kings

This special show features a unique blend of zydeco, Cajun, New Orleans jazz, and funk, delivering lively and unforgettable performances.

July 11, 2026
Blue Sky Puppet Theatre: The Three (Not So) Little Pigs

An offbeat twist on a classic tale — the wolf is a vegetarian and the pigs jam on rock and roll guitars! Packed with laughs and a message of cooperation, this one is as much fun for adults as it is for kids.

July 18, 2026
The Unicycle Lady

The Unicycle Lady combines unicycle skills with comedy and juggling in a unique show perfect for families!

July 25, 2026
Paul Belanger: The Balloon Comic

This special show features a unique mix of magic, juggling, and interactive balloon artistry!

Aug 1, 2026
Lohr Family Antics

Enjoy a fast-paced, sidesplitting vaudeville and circus-skills show headlined by new-vaudevillian Mark Lohr.

Aug 8, 2026
Rocknoceros

Rocknoceros is playing all the kid-friendly tunes they’re loved for!

Aug 15, 2026
Magician Ken Caplan

This special show features a side-splitting combo of magic and comedy.

Aug 22, 2026
Guava Jelly

A popular, Annapolis-based acoustic trio, Guava Jelly blends Caribbean-inspired reggae with pop, rock, classic Motown, and country.

Details:
Website

Location:
Reston Town Square Park ∙ Reston, VA

LEARN MORE

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Movies on the Pitch @ Audi Field

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‹‹ More Summer Movie Fun

The big screen meets the soccer field this summer!

Audi Field is turning the pitch into an outdoor theater with free screenings of crowd-favorite movies under the stars. The 2026 lineup includes:

Details:
Website

Location:
Audi Field ∙ Washington, DC

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Otakon Asian Pop Culture Convention

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Step into a world of imagination, fandom, and fun at Otakon 2026 — one of the East Coast’s largest celebrations of Asian pop culture!

From July 31-August 2, 2026, fans of anime, manga, video games, music, fashion, and more are invited to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for a full weekend of unforgettable experiences. With something for every age and interest, this 3-day event blends fandom and culture like no other!

Highlights Include:

  • Ota-Chan: A kid-friendly programming track packed with crafts, project tables, anime movies, and fun designed just for younger attendees.
  • Manga Library: A relaxed reading space stocked with manga, manhwa, and manhua — plus language activities and a brand-new in-library radio experience, Radio HonHon!
  • Idolspace: A dedicated stage for cosplay idols, anisong performers, and indie idol groups bringing live music and fan interaction all weekend.
  • Lyra’s Formal Ball: Friday evening’s formal event for all ages, featuring cosplay, dancing, and live music — dress to impress!
  • Club Ota: An electrifying dance night featuring hardstyle, Jersey Club, and everything electronic for an unforgettable experience.
  • Odottemita Showcase: New for 2026 — a celebration of the global dance cover community, featuring choreography to Vocaloid, anime, and J-pop songs.
  • The Dollhouse: A one-of-a-kind space where dolls of all shapes and sizes are welcome, featuring swap meets, doll meets, photography dioramas, and Otakon’s first-ever ABJD Museum.
  • Hanbok Exhibit: Hosted by the Korea Hanbok Promotion Institute and KOMACON, this exhibit explores the history and cultural significance of Korean hanbok — with the chance to try one on!
  • Makerspace: A hands-on creative space where attendees of all ages can build themed crafts, join Expert Hour sessions, and participate in weekend-long featured projects at their own pace.
  • Cosplay Rescue: Got a cosplay mishap? Stop by for free repairs from the Cosplay Rescue staff — they’ve got you covered all weekend long.

Competitions & Cosplay:

  • Anime Music Video (AMV) Contest: Fan-created anime music videos go head-to-head for top honors in this beloved annual competition.
  • Masquerade: A major cosplay stage show featuring skits, dance routines, and costume awards for competitors of all skill levels.
  • Hall Costume Contest: A craftsmanship-focused contest for youth and adults, judged throughout the convention center all weekend.
  • K-Pop Showtime Competition: A high-energy showcase of K-pop dance routines and performances open to all skill levels.
  • Cosplay Coordination: Organized group photo shoots and themed meetups for cosplayers to connect and showcase their work.

Interactive Spaces & Activities:

  • Mecha Kaikan: An immersive mecha hall featuring panels, video content, model building with Gundam Planet, and guided workshops for beginners and seasoned builders alike.
  • LARP: The world’s largest anime LARP returns, inviting attendees to step into the shoes of their favorite anime characters for hours — or the whole weekend.
  • Workshops & Panels: Interactive sessions led by fans and industry experts covering crafting, drawing, fandom, and everything in between.
  • Fashion District: A style showcase celebrating cosplay fashion, street style, and the full spectrum of anime-inspired looks.

Get your badge today and join thousands of fans in celebrating the stories, styles, and sounds of Asian pop culture!

Details:
Website ∙ Register

Dates:
July 31-Aug 2, 2026

Location:
Walter E. Washington Convention Center ∙ Washington, DC

LEARN MORE

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Game On @ 810 Entertainment

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810 Entertainment
‹‹ More Indoor Play Fun

You’re invited to turn an ordinary day into an entertainment escape packed with strikes, smiles, and nonstop play at 810 Entertainment!

Located in the former Sears space at Dulles Town Center, 810 Entertainment offers a full lineup of fun under one roof. This sprawling entertainment venue (60,000 square feet!) combines date-night activities, teen hangouts, and kid-friendly adventures. A full-service restaurant rounds out the experience with shareable plates, burgers, sandwiches, desserts, and specialty milkshakes.

Whether your crew is competitive or just looking for a fun excuse to hang out, 810 Entertainment offers something for everyone, including:

  • Bowling
    Rec’d Ages 4+
    Enjoy classic bowling fun on 25+ modern lanes designed for family outings, friendly competition, and group gatherings. Reservations are available, but walk-ins are always welcome!
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf
    Enjoy a fun, scaled-down version of golf on a creative indoor course designed for guests of all ages. Perfect for families, friends, and groups, a typical round takes about 30-45 minutes, and all putters and balls are provided.
  • Arcade
    The arcade features a mix of racing simulators, basketball hoops, claw machines, classic favorites, and interactive games for all ages. Guests play using a reloadable game card and can earn tickets on many games to redeem for prizes, making it a popular destination for kids, teens, and adults alike.
  • Laser Tag
    Step into a themed arena and compete in an interactive laser tag game using infrared taggers. Sessions typically last 10-15 minutes; all equipment is provided, and the experience is designed to be safe and enjoyable for a variety of ages.
  • Billiards
    Challenge friends or family to a game of pool in a relaxed, social setting. Equipment is provided, tables may be reserved based on availability, and most games accommodate two to four players at a time.
  • Sports Simulators
    All Skill Levels
    Step into a virtual sports experience powered by advanced simulator technology. Guests can play golf, soccer, baseball, and other interactive sports in a beginner-friendly environment that’s easy to enjoy, whether it’s a first-time visit or a friendly competition. Multiple players can participate depending on the game selected, and sessions typically last 30-60 minutes.
  • Axe Throwing
    Ages 12+
    Try your hand at this unique activity with guidance from trained staff who provide instruction and safety tips for beginners. Sessions typically last about 60 minutes; closed-toe shoes are required, and the experience is generally recommended for guests ages 12 and older, making it a fun option for friendly competition with family and friends.
  • Krazy Dart
    Ages 16+ ∙ 12-15 accompanied by an adult
    Krazy Darts puts a high-tech twist on traditional darts, combining steel-tip dart throwing with interactive projection technology and automatic scoring. With more than 18 game options, players of all skill levels can test their aim, challenge friends, and enjoy a modern social gaming experience unlike that of a standard dartboard.

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

The Arlington Co Fair Turns 50

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‹‹ More County Fairs & Carnivals

One of the largest free-admission events on the East Coast is back this summer, August 12-16, 2026!

At the Arlington County Fair, enjoy all the things you’ve come to love about this annual community event — and this year marks a special milestone as the fair celebrates 50 years of memories! More than exciting midway rides and carnival-style food and games, enjoy live entertainment, a Kids Court, shopping from local vendors, a Sensory Break Tent, and more!

Images courtesy of Arlington County Fair (circa 2025); click to enlarge…

All the fun happens around the Thomas Jefferson Community Center. Admission to the fair is free; ride tickets can be purchased online or at the fair.

See the entertainment schedule and more, like competitions and themed zones, online. See last-minute updates and more on the fair’s Facebook page.

Details:
Website ∙ Facebook

Dates:
Aug 12-16, 2026

Location:
3501 2nd St S ∙ Arlington, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Get to Know Perch Putt

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Perch Putt at Capital One Center
By DullesMoms, June 2026

Did you know that in the heart of Tysons Corner is an elevated sky park? Located 11 stories up, on the roof of the Capital One Center, you’ll find a hidden oasis of entertainment, fun, art, and greenery, including eighteen holes of miniature golf!

With sweeping views of Tysons, this sky-high course features additional amenities, including a converted retro Greyhound bus and a double-decker bus serving up street food, plus cocktails from Rhum Roost, the rooftop tiki bar.

Guests are reminded that Perch Putt normally stays open rain or shine, though play stops for lightning. Make a reservation online, and be sure to check Perch Putt out on social (links below) for up-to-date information.

Details:
Website ∙ Facebook ∙ Instagram

Location:
The Perch ∙ Tysons, VA

LEARN MORE

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.