Discover the Best Free Family Fun in Northern Virginia This June
As the school year winds down and summer kicks into high gear, families in Northern Virginia are on the hunt for exciting and affordable activities to keep the little ones entertained. Luckily, our region is brimming with fantastic free events and attractions perfect for creating cherished memories without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top picks for free family fun in NOVA this June:
Fairfax City Juneteenth Celebration
On Saturday June 15th (ahead of the official June 19th holiday), Fairfax City celebrates Juneteenth National Independence Day, signifying the day in 1865 when enslaved people near Galveston, Texas first learned they were free. In Old Town Hall Fairfax, from 10 am to 4:30 pm, this free event will feature a number of renowned speakers and exceptional musical talents. The family fun event will also offer cookie decorating, children’s crafts, face painting, temporary tattoos, a balloon artist and selfie station!
Frying Pan Farm Park’s Juneteenth Historic Tour
Located in Herndon, Frying Pan Farm Park invites everyone to explore their historic meeting house and grounds in honor of Junteenth. On June 15th at 11 am, this free celebration honors the legacy of freedom by exploring the history of the free and enslaved African American members of the Frying Pan Baptist Meeting House. Ongoing tours will take you through the church, the surrounding grounds and will talk about the former location of the Lee house, home of an African American family who lived on the property and worshiped at the church after the Civil War. The tour is free but registration is recommended.
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center invites you and your family to their biggest aviation event of the year on on June 15th, from 10 am to 3 pm. Explore inventions that have shaped the last 100 years of flight and innovations that are changing the future! While the free outdoor fly-in is sold out, indoor activities are not ticketed.
On June 15th from 1 to 8:30 pm, the Columbia Pike Blues Festival honors women in blues in 2024. Now in its 27th year, this amazing event features live performances of blues, R&B, funk, and soul music. Expect to hear the tunes of The Honey Larks, Mama Moon & The Rump Shakers, and headliner Bette Smith. This family-friendly celebration also offers craft beer and wine, along with activities for all ages. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs.
Celebrate Dad with an Outdoor Adventure
Show your dad some love this Father’s Day (and every day, of course) by enjoying the great outdoors in one of NOVA’s beautiful parks and trails:
- Mason Neck State Park in Lorton invites you to hike along scenic trails, spot diverse wildlife, and soak in stunning views of the Potomac River – all without an entry fee.
- The Bull Run-Occoquan Trail in Centreville stretches for miles, allowing you to hike, bike, or simply bask in the tranquility of this natural oasis.
- Riverbend Park in Great Falls provides free access to the breathtaking Great Falls and numerous hiking trails along the Potomac River.
Farmers Market Fun Days in Herndon
Discover the perfect blend of fresh local goods and summer entertainment at the Herndon Farmers Market Fun Days! Fun days are happening every Thursday from 10:30 am to 11:15 am and offer family-friendly entertainment. Little ones can groove to the tunes of Rainbow Rock (July 18), Mr. Lilo (July 25), Ms. Niki’s Music Class (August 1), and Drew Blue Shoes (August 15), with one more act to be announced (August 8). Enjoy these free summer mini-concerts on the Town Hall Green, adjacent to the Farmer’s Market
Portside in Old Town Summer Festival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Portside in Old Town Summer Festival, a free family-friendly celebration along the Alexandria waterfront. On June 21 from 6 to 9 pm and June 22 from 1 to 8 pm, enjoy live music performances by Tasisha Estrada, the Feedel Band, The Walkways, and more, while indulging in delicious food and drinks. Engage in hands-on art and history-related activities, and don’t miss the chance to savor Port City Brewing Company’s special ALX275 hoppy India Pale Ale, brewed with 275 pounds of hops to commemorate Alexandria’s 275th anniversary.
4th Annual Manassas Bee Festival
Mark your calendar for the Manassas Bee Festival on June 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm! This unique event celebrates the importance of bees and pollinators with a whimsical costume parade, delicious food trucks, live bluegrass music, and up-close encounters with farm animals. Learn about native plants and how to support bee conservation efforts as Manassas, the first Bee City USA designated city in Northern Virginia, raises awareness to protect our precious bee population.
Founders Row Young Explorers Kids Club
On June 22nd at 11 am, the Founders Row Young Explorers Club kicks off its summer series with a STEAM-themed event, focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. This exciting gathering promises a day brimming with interactive games, hands-on activities, and opportunities for children to explore the wonders of nature, science, and history through an engaging and educational lens. Mark your calendars, as additional dates with unique themes will follow later this summer, offering more chances for young minds to embark on exciting adventures of discovery.
Jennifer Young Homes Wishes You a Wonderful June!
Northern Virginia truly comes alive during the summer months, offering an abundance of free and kid-friendly activities that cater to every interest. At Jennifer Young Homes, we hope you take advantage of these outstanding family events in our amazing area! Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourselves in local history and culture, or simply enjoying lively community festivals, we hope you make the most of this special time of year. If you’re on the lookout for a new home, our team can assist you in finding the perfect place to call your own, where endless opportunities for adventure await. Contact us today at 703-651-5655!
