It’s hard to believe August is already upon us. If you’ve maxed out on spending for camps, pools and summer treats, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids engaged and entertained through summer’s remaining weeks without spending a dime. Give your wallet a break and check out these free activities for youngsters in and around Arlington.
Bounce in the Parks
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 County. Just show up and register on site. Now through Aug. 14, you’ll find inflatables at Alcova Heights Park, Quincy Park, Chestnut Hill Park and Virginia Highland. Check the website before you go to find out which parks are participating each week.
Lubber Run Back to School Event
Want to get them excited for the new school year? Stop by Lubber Run Community Center for music, food, face painting and Icees Aug. 15, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can also try their hand at some basketball skills challenges, and the first 50 attendees will receive free school supplies. RSVP in advance for this event, sponsored by the I Matter Youth Center. 300 N. Park Drive, Arlington
Shipgarten Kids Field Day
Lace up those sneakers and get ready for a day of friendly competition and classic field day activities for kids on Aug. 16 from noon to 6 p.m. Those with extra energy to burn can check out Shipgarten’s playgrounds, too. The field day events are free, but parents may wish to grab some food and check out the beer garden while small competitors are occupied. 7581 Colshire Drive, Tysons
Summer at The Rec
Grab a Teen Pass (also free) and send your teen over to Arlington Mill Community Center for a free hot lunch and activities chosen by participants, including games, art project or cooking lessons. Teems can listen to music, pick up some new skills at the weekly DJ and Music Production class, game with friends in the e-sports lounge or get some energy out in the gym. The weekday drop-in program runs from 1 to 7 p.m. through Aug. 21. 909 S. Dinwiddie St., ArlingtonÂ
Thursdays at Tyrol Hill Park
Teens with a free Teen Pass can also stop by Tyrol Hill Park on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. for a free summer cookout and activities such as soccer, flag football and music provided by a live DJ. On Aug. 6, the group will play ultimate frisbee and capture the flag. Aug. 13 is handball and soccer, and Aug. 20 promises an end-of-summer celebration complete with water balloon fight. 5101 7th Road S., Arlington (Forest Glen)
MoCA Young Explorers
Youngsters can express their creativity, develop motor skills and explore new art materials at this drop-in program for young children. The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington offers new activities at its Innovation Studio and Store Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, introducing a range of techniques and media. After expending all that creative energy, participants can hit the playground at Met Park. 525 14th St. S., Arlington (National Landing)
Met Park Movie Nights
Families can catch free outdoor flicks every other Friday, 6-8 p.m., through Oct. 16, in National Landing’s Met Park. Upcoming movies include Hairspray (Aug. 7), Shrek (Aug. 21) and Back to the Future (Sep. 4). Neighborhood retailer pop ups throughout the season add treats and fun to each showing. For additional outdoor summer movies near you, click here. 1330 S. Fair St., Arlington (National Landing)
