WASHINGTON — The 4th of July might steal the show every year, but really, the fun is just getting started. Events to help everyone celebrate summer are just beginning and exciting activities continue throughout the days to come. Here are a few ideas for creating memories on the second weekend of the month!
Every week, WUSA9 is giving you the details on at least nine local activities to check out in your off time. We'll give you three ideas (and, sometimes, a bonus item or two) every week each in D.C., Maryland and Virginia and it's up to you to decide what you'll head out to! Have any more events you think your neighbors should know about? Email the time, place and description to bashford1@wusa9.com.
DC
- Saturday, July 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Dupont Circle
- Admission: Free
Listen to beautiful sounds Saturday evening at Dupont Circle BID's 2022 See You at the Circle Concert Series.
"This week, we'll have a DJ for the first hour, followed by an opening performance by the Washington Bach Consort," according to organizers. "For the headline show, Michael Bowie will present 'DC Jazz All-Stars.' Pack a picnic or order a picnic to-go from one of Dupont's many restaurants; and, grab a blanket and head to the park for a free musical performance that will be sure to impress!"
Event series at the Wharf
The waterfront neighborhood in Southwest is hosting multiple events this weekend. Check out the series below.
- Saturday, July 9 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, July 10 from 2 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- District Pier of The Wharf (735 Water St. SW Washington, DC 20024, United States)
- Admission: Free
Get to know a new culture and enjoy a Romanian weekend! The Embassy of Romania, along with the Romanian Cultural Institute in New York and others are coming together to host this unique event on the District Pier.
The event involves a "two-day extravaganza for all senses featuring live music, traditional dances, craft shows, exhibitions, and wine & food sampling," the description reads.
The weekend celebrates Romanian-American friendship and the 25th anniversary of the launch of the Strategic Partnership for the 21st Century between Romania and the USA.
- Recurring; Friday, July 8 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
- Admission: Free
Learn to dance with the pros as Transit Pier turns into a dance floor! Each month on the second Friday, the Wharf invites all to enjoy different music and dance styles. The night will start with a free lesson, then you can put your new skills to the test during a live music dance party. The event this Friday will feature swing dance with GottaSwing and music from Nighthawks.
- Recurring; Saturday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday, July 10 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
- Admission: Free, but BYO skates if you're an adult. $10 rentals available for kids' skates (size 12 junior - 6).
Check out The Wharf Roller Rink for a classic old-school summer favorite.
" The Wharf Roller Rink will become the hottest party on eight wheels," orgniazer said. "Skate outdoors for free, vibe out to great music, and watch incredible skate performances by the professionals."
The Wharf Roller Rink will also be open on August 13 & 14, so if you can't make it, put the next weekend in your cal now!
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- Recurring; Sunday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Dumbarton House, 2715 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20007
- Admission: Free, $5 donation suggested
Correction: This description previously stated incorrectly that yoga was at Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown - it is at Dumbarton House, which is a separate entity.
Venture to the beautiful Dumbarton House and enjoy a tranquil Sunday morning doing yoga, with Georgetown restaurants just minutes away if the exercise works up an appetite.
"Enjoy our serene outdoor space for this 60-minute all-levels class that should be fun and challenging for both experienced yogis and yoga skeptics alike!" organizers shared, along with the advisement that attendees should bring their own mat and complete a waiver to participate.
In 1932, after the structure was restored to its early 1800s splendor, Dumbarton House opened to the public as a museum of Federal period decorative arts, according to the website.
Note: Class will be canceled if rain is in the forecast at or after 8 a.m. the morning of class. Rain cancellations can be confirmed Dumbarton House’s Social Media Pages (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) @DumbartonHouse.
Here's what the forecast is looking like: https://www.wusa9.com/weather
MARYLAND
- Saturday, July 9 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Montgomery County Agricultural Fairgrounds, 501 Perry Parkway, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
- Admission: Passes start at $45
It's the first Maryland Beer, Wine, & Spirits Festival at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds!
Stroll the fairgrounds while exploring and sampling local beer, wine and spirits from dozens of local makers. "Be sure to check out the featured cider and mead producers showcasing their innovative and unique products. Live music and an assortment of awesome food trucks round out this fun, all-local festival," organizers said, adding that admission to the event includes sampling to find just the right bottle to purchase and take home.
- Recurring; Saturday, July 9 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- Seneca Creek State Park, Boat Center 11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20841
- Admission: $4 per person
If you're looking for an affordable option for some time out on the water and you want to explore the natural wonders of Maryland, check out a pontoon tour this weekend! "Take a relaxing 45-minute boat ride on the 'Blue Heron.' Learn about history of the area and search for wildlife who call Clopper Lake home," the event description reads.
Recurring; Saturday, July 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
19120 Martinsburg Rd, Dickerson MD 20842 – follow the signs to the Farm Cafe once on the farm
Admission: Free, with all food available for purchase
Get out of the city for a bit and bring along the family for this fun night on the farm.
Fresh pizza pies, local beers and wines, farm-fresh salads, ice cream and an opportunity to wander the farm will all be on tap. Organizers ask that those interested be sure to reserve their spot in advance as they sell out fast.
- Sunday, July 10 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
- Admission: Free
Silver Spring is welcoming summer at Veterans Plaza with an array of arts and crafts, good music, dance, performances and a ton of activities for both adults and kids alike.
"Over 80 artisans and crafters, independent consultants and small businesses are coming together to the annual Silver Spring Arts and Crafts Summer Festival!" organizers said.
VIRGINIA
- POSTPONED to Sunday, July 10 from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
- 100 Madison St, Alexandria, VA 22314
- Admission: Free
Maybe your 4th of July plans didn't quite pan out - don't worry about it! A re-do is on the horizon. Celebrate the city of Alexandria and the country at their big, joint b-day bash.
Listen to the sweet sounds of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and then stick around to catch the grand finale of fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
"Enjoy the return of the big birthday experience of years past with cupcakes, local vendors, live music and an extended runtime."
- Recurring; Friday, July 8 at 8 p.m.
- 3720 Old Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22030
- Admission: Free
Perhaps you're in need of a movie night, or a good cry. Either way, this cool Fairfax event has you covered with their showing of Pixar's "Up" on Friday night at Van Dyck Park!
You're free to bring blankets or low chairs for seating as the movie kicks off.
- Friday, July 8 through Sunday, Jul 10
- Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202
- Badges start at $40 depending on the day, with Sunday being the cheapest.
Kids 12 and under are free
"Blerdcon is an event that highlights and celebrates Blerd culture and creates a marketplace of ideas where sharing that culture can take place with proper context, attribution and positivity in an inclusive environment," organizers shared about this unique event that celebrates "Blerds" - a combo of the word Black and nerd.
The convention highlights those who love video gaming, anime or things like comic book culture and will feature a plethora of activities and guests, from celebrity guests, cosplay contests, a comedy show and a maid café.
"Blerdcon celebrates our connection with LGBTQ, the disabled, POCs and the international community! All are welcome to partake in the experience as we are an open community who love all the same nerddom."
- Recurring; Friday, June 8; Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10
- Multiple times are available depending on the day from noon to 5 p.m.
- 4300 Chantilly Shopping Center Suite #1H, Chantilly, VA 20151
- Admission: $25-$45 with cake being the most expensive. Cupcakes and cookies are also available for decorating.
There's always something in life worth celebrating - even if it's simply getting through one more week! And what's a celebration without some cake?
Decorate your own (or cupcakes!) during these open studio sessions. Visitors are welcome to choose from a large assortment of decorations, including fondant, buttercream, sprinkles and candy to create your very own edible work of art!
"Not feeling creative? Start from one of our pre-designed kits, which include written instructions. This is a fun and unique activity for ALL ages!" organizers shared. "Boxes provided so you can show off your masterpiece to all your friends & family."
Keep in mind, reservations are strongly encouraged and all guests must wear a face mask.