Parents, you’re halfway there. It’s hard to believe August is just around the corner. If you’re already maxed out on spending for camps, pools and summer treats, there are plenty of ways to have fun with the kids without spending a dime. Give your wallet a break and join in on these free activities to keep the kiddos entertained.
Bounce in the Park
Kids ages 3 to 9 can bounce to their hearts’ delight Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at parks throughout Arlington. Just show up and register on site. Now through Aug. 8, you’ll find inflatables at Lacey Woods Park, Alcova Heights Park, Quincy Park and Virginia Highland. Be sure to check the website before you go as some events have been canceled due to extreme heat.
Kids World 2025
This event is across the river in D.C., but with two, 6-hour days filled with kiddie fun, it might be worth the trek. On July 26-27 from noon to 6 p.m., Franklin Park transforms into a high-energy, imagination-fueled kid paradise with live performances, a Mommy and Me Yoga class, a Grand Safari animal encounter featuring live reptiles, and a Mad Science demo bringing foamy, fizzy, color-changing chemical reactions to life. Two enormous stuffed bears, Francis and Francesca, will provide cute photo ops at this third-annual even presented by Events DC and sponsored by the DC Public Library Foundation and Amazon. Franklin Park, 1332 I Street NW, Washington, D.C.
Ballin’ at the Mill Late Night
This teens-only party takes place at Arlington Mill Community Center every Friday night from 9 p.m. to midnight with drop-in basketball, food, music and a game room. The county requests that participants register in advance, but walk-ins are also welcome. Attendees must have a high school ID to enter. 909 S. Dinwiddie St., Arlington
Summer Teen Nights
Bored teens can connect with classmates or make new friends on select Saturdays from 7 to 10 p.m. at these teens-only shindigs. On July 26, the theme is Game On, with basketball tournaments, a game truck, DJ, snacks and moon bounces. On August 9, Long Bridge Aquatics and Fitness center will host a late-night teen pool party. The summer fun wraps up on August 23 with a Foam Fest Summer Sendoff at Arlington Mill Community Center. RSVP here. Various locations.
Kids Renaissance Festival
Step into ye olde world of Renaissance fun at Shipgarten in Tysons on August 17 when kids can try archery (with toy bows and arrows), jousting and toy axe throwing. Doors open at 11 a.m. and the fun kicks off at noon with a live magic show by Jake the Great. Littles can also enjoy free face painting, moon bounces and arts and crafts. While the kids burn off some energy, parents can kick back and catch the game on one of the biergarten’s two 155-inch TV walls and grab a drink and a bite to eat. 7581 Colshire Drive, Tysons
Spellbinders Stories and Animal Friends
The Arlington Spellbinders specialize in the magic of oral storytelling, bringing favorite tales from around the world to life in vivid and captivating detail. It’s a tradition that, since ancient times in all cultures, has passed on wisdom, connected elders to youth and engaged the imagination. The next storytelling session in the classroom of the Long Branch Nature Center, Saturday, August 9 at 11:30 a.m. will include a visit from a live animal friend, and participants can choose a well-loved book to take home. Sign up free online at the Arlington County registration page. 625 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington
Met Park Movie Nights
Families can catch free outdoor flicks every other Friday, 6-8 p.m., through Sept. 12, in National Landing’s Met Park. Upcoming movies include Matilda (July 25), Lilo and Stitch (Aug. 8) and The Parent Trap (Aug. 22). For additional outdoor summer movies near you, click here. 1330 S. Fair St., Arlington (National Landing)
Gardening at the Fort for Families
You can tour the garden at Fort C.F. Smith Park and do a little bit of tending with the kids, including harvesting your own veggies to take home. You’ll be outside the whole time, so dress for the weather and in clothes that can get dirty. The next session with openings is Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. Register here. Fort CF Smith Park, 2411 24th St. N., Arlington