What’s on your child’s summer bucket list? Whether your little ones are interested in children’s theater, or perhaps want to burn off some energy at an outdoor sports park, we have some ideas to add to your summer plans.
Brush Up on Your Science Skills at Children’s Science Center Lab Summer Camps
June 17–August 16
The Children’s Science Center Lab in Fairfax offers children an opportunity to explore STEM concepts at week-long summer camps (most have spaces still available). Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for campers entering grades 1 through 5. Noteworthy options include Engineering Expedition, which explores the blueprints and prototyping, and Dig It, for future geologists. 11948 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax
Visit Children’s Theatre in the Woods at Wolf Trap
June 20–August 3
This kid-friendly summer tradition at Wolf Trap includes interactive concerts, puppet shows, and live performances. The one-hour shows are nestled in the woods at Wolf Trap National Park. 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna
Go to Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular
June 29, 4–10 p.m.
Enjoy musical entertainment, food, craft vendors, and plenty of children’s activities. There will be activities at the Spotsylvania Courthouse, Spotsylvania Elementary School, and the Spotsylvania Courthouse Village. Spotsylvania, free
Meet Spiderman, Elsa, and Anna
July 7, noon–6 p.m.
Shipgarten in Tysons welcomes Spiderman and Frozen characters. There will be free face painting, as well as live music, moon bounces, a full outdoor playground, and superhero training with Spidey himself. Plus, Frozen sisters Elsa and Anna will perform. Dogs are welcome too! 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean
Celebrate Alexandria Turning 275
July 13, 6–9:30 p.m.
Take the whole family to celebrate the city’s 275th birthday and America’s 248th birthday at Oronoco Bay Park. There will be live music by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, birthday cupcakes, and a fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m. 100 Madison St., Alexandria
Interact with Alpacas Before It Gets Too Hot
Through mid-to-late July
Ever After Alpaca Farm in Broad Run books alpaca encounters for $20 for one hour. The owners encourage guests to take lots of photos or even a selfie or two with their fluffy friends. They also have a store with multiple alpaca items like warm fleeces for colder months. 6155 Georgetown Rd., Broad Run
Head to 74th Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival
August 1–4
Nothing says summer more than a fair or carnival, and this event at Frying Pan Farm Park doesn’t disappoint. Come for the carnival games and rides, tractor demos (big truck night is August 2), live entertainment, and farm animals. Expect lots of 4-H exhibits and shows too. 2739 West Ox Rd., Herndon, parking $10, prices for rides vary, depending on whether you buy them individually or get a wristband
Cool Off at Volcano Island Waterpark
Through Labor Day weekend, but closed August 19–30; August 7, 10–11 a.m.: Sensory friendly time
Volcano Island is a great place to cool off during notoriously hot Virginia summers. There are dozens of waterslides, splash pools and play structures to enjoy. There is a fee to enter, but children under two are free. Annual waterpark passes are available. 20015 Volcano Island Dr., Sterling
Visit Swader’s Sports Park
Through Labor Day, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. daily
This family-friendly outdoor sports park in Prince George offers mini-golf, laser tag, batting cages, go-karts, and more. For younger children ages 2 to 12, the KidZone on the grounds features an obstacle course, slides, and a trolley. 4725 Whitehill Blvd., Prince George
Feature image of Children’s Theatre in the Woods at Wolf Trap by Shannon Flack
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