For families who want to save money while enjoying time together this summer, here are free July events and things to do. They include block parties, live music from the U.S. Army, family-friendly theater, and even a bubble dance party at the library.
Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Enjoy a free storytime session at the Barnes & Noble at Clarendon Market Common before doing some shopping in store or at the other retail options in the area, including Crate & Barrel, Sephora, Lululemon, and others. 2800 Clarendon Blvd., Ste. 500, Clarendon
Find Waldo in Leesburg
Through July 31
The puzzles from Where’s Waldo are coming to life this summer. Thirty Leesburg businesses are joining in on the month-long scavenger hunt. All you need to do is pick up your playing card at one of the participating businesses and start looking for Waldo to collect stamps. Once you’ve found them, turn in your card for a special prize. Various businesses in Leesburg
Family-Friendly Theatre
July 5–August 1, times vary
Tysons Corner hosts the Traveling Players, a theater company for family-friendly shows throughout the summer. See A Midsummer Night’s Dream on July 11 and Hamlet on July 31. There are multiple shows on different dates. In case of inclement weather, performances move inside the Traveling Players Studio, located inside Tysons Corner on the first floor. The Plaza, Tysons Corner Center, Level 1, Tysons
Doggy 4th of July Festival
July 13, 1–6 p.m.
Enjoy a party especially for furry friends at Shipgarten. There will be specially designated dog parks for big and small dogs, canine competitions, a photo booth, and lots of food and drinks for both humans and dogs. The doggy competitions start at 3p.m. 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons
Second Saturday Sungazing
July 13, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
While parking is $15, this event at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center allows all ages to become an astronomer and observe the sun with a filtered telescope. Staff will be on hand to answer questions and help guide you through what you are seeing. In case of clouds, visitors are welcome inside to the Space Hangar to view images of the sun taken by satellite. 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy., Chantilly, $15 for parking
2024 Twilight Tattoo: U.S. Army Live Military Experience
July 17, 7–8 p.m.
This event features the U.S. Army Military District of Washington ceremonial units, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), and the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” Twilight Tattoo is great for the whole family, from school-aged children to parents and grandparents. Meet soldiers and pick up swag before the show. Register online. Fort Myer’s Summerall Field, 247 Sheridan Ave., Arlington
Chillin’ on Church at the Vienna Town Green
July 19, 6:30–9:30 p.m., with additional dates in August and September
This fun block party is held every third Friday through September along Church Street in Vienna. There are family-friendly activities, live music, and food, beer, and wine. July’s food truck lineup includes both savory and sweet options like Brunched Around the World, Pakos Takos Grill, Kaye’s Mini Doughnuts, Capitol Snow shaved iced, and others. Ocho De Bastos plays on July 19. Church Street, Vienna
Bubble Dance Party
July 26, 11 a.m.–noon
The Patrick Henry Library in Vienna hosts a morning of bubbles and dancing for the little ones. Kid-friendly music and an hour of never-ending bubbles await in the meeting Room. The event is for ages 2 and up, with an accompanying adult. Patrick Henry Library: 101 Maple Ave. E., Vienna
Groovy Nate at Wakefield Park
July 27, 10–10:45 a.m.
Children’s entertainer Groovy Nate appears at Wakefield Park in Annandale for an entertaining morning. Expect a Sesame Street meets funk morning with lots of grooves, musical instruments, and comedy. Plan to sing along. Wakefield Park: 8100 Braddock Rd., Annandale
Feature image courtesy Tysons Corner Center
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