After weeks of summer break, it can be a struggle to find ways to keep kids from getting bored inside the house. And while you could always shell out some cash to go to a movie theater or an amusement park, those activities can get a little pricey. To save some money without compromising fun, check out these seven free family-friendly events happening this month in NoVA.
Wild Summer at Loudoun Station
Every Sunday, 6:30 p.m.
Bring the weekend movie nights outside with this weekly kids’ movie series at Loudoun Station District Park. Every week there’s a different family-friendly film, including The Jungle Book, Zookeeper, and Moana. Some films have a special event before the start time, like a meet-and-greet with Moana at 6 p.m. on August 27. 43751 Central Station Dr., Ashburn
Kids and Family Petting Zoo Festival
August 6, noon.–6 p.m.
A full day of family fun awaits at Shipgarten’s Petting Zoo Festival. Kids can spend time getting to know some friendly critters before heading over to the bounce houses and playgrounds. There will be live music from noon to 3 p.m., with a special activity at 3:15 p.m. 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean
6th Annual Fairfax Family Festival
August 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
You’ll find lots of fun family-friendly activities at this free festival. Kids can play on inflatables, bounce houses, and slides, plus get free balloon animals and a glitter tattoo. Food trucks will be on-site to purchase food. 11230 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax
Second Saturday Sungazing at the Udvar-Hazy Center
August 12, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Raising a budding astronomer? Head to the Chantilly location of the National Air and Space Museum to safely examine the sun through a filtered telescope. Staff will be there to guide observation and answer any questions. Once you’re finished sungazing, head into the museum to check out the exhibits of planes and spaceships. 1430 Air and Space Museum Pkwy., Chantilly
Children’s Summer Reading Festival
August 13, noon–3 p.m.
Have your little ones spent this summer with books? Celebrate the fun of reading with this festival at the Chantilly Regional Library. The event is intended to encourage kids to keep reading even when school is out. There will be games and crafts, a bounce house, a mini zoo, and face painting. 4000 Stringfellow Rd., Chantilly
Kids on the Green
Tuesdays through August 15, 10 a.m.
Enjoy free, interactive kids programs every Tuesday this summer on the Vienna Town Green. August 8 will feature Blue Sky Puppets presenting Three Not So Little Pigs, and August 15 will feature the magician Drew Blue Shoes. 144 Maple Ave. E., Vienna
Leesburg Festival of Crafts & Kites
August 19, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Kids and grown-ups will find this festival at Ida Lee Park fun. Watch kites soar at the kite competition and spend time in the kids’ zone for activities, games, and inflatables, then peruse the 60 vendors. You’ll find jewelry, ceramics, and fine art from these artisans, crafters, and small businesses. 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg
Feature image by Monkey Business/stock.adobe.com
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