As we approach the country’s 250th birthday, anticipation is building across the nation. From the Great American State Fair on the National Mall to the cherished traditions of our neighborhood parades, communities everywhere are gearing up to mark this momentous occasion. Our local area is particularly rich with opportunities to connect with history and celebrate our shared heritage. This week, we are spotlighting a curated selection of fun and educational events happening throughout June and July, perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to honor America’s journey.
USA at 250 Art Exhibit | June 5-28
Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA
Del Ray Artisans is celebrating the country’s 250th birthday with its "USA at 250" art exhibition, which showcases local artwork capturing the nation's past, present, and future through themes of landscape, history, and resilience. The gallery is also hosting a diverse lineup of creative workshops and programs, including hands-on sessions in junk journaling, mosaic art, social media for artists, bead and wire jewelry making, Persian sweets crafting, LEGO car building, resin art, life drawing, and both urban and nature journaling. The exhibit is free, but you must register in advance online for the workshops.
Solstice Celebration: Smithsonian after Dark | June 18-21
Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall, Washington, DC
The Smithsonian is celebrating the start of summer and America’s 250th birthday with a massive Solstice weekend featuring extended hours, special programs, and live performances across multiple locations on the National Mall, including the Air and Space, American History, and Natural History museums, and the National Museum of African Ar. The celebration also spreads to off-Mall locations, featuring late hours at the American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, a late-night guided hike at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, neighborhood programming at the Anacostia Community Museum, and a "Science Solstice Sunday" event at the National Zoo. Some Museums require advance registration or free timed passes for entry.
While you are at the Smithsonian museums, check out the exhibits of Our Shared Future: 250 that help tell the American story.
Colonial Fun and Games | June 23, 3-4 PM
In this engaging program, Public Historian Audrey DeAngelis and Education Associate Donna Bohanon from Oatlands explore the rich history of the toys and games that colonial children loved. Then it's your turn to give them a try, including the classic ball-and-cup challenge and other hands-on activities straight from the 18th century.
FREE
Gaithersburg SummerFest | June 27, 6-11 PM
Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm, Gaithersburg, MD
Start your Independence Day early at this family-friendly celebration filled with live music, food trucks, and local breweries. The evening's main highlight is a spectacular fireworks display launching 500 feet into the air at approximately 9:20 p.m., with the park grounds serving as the primary viewing location. To help guests avoid the post-show traffic, the event wraps up with a high-energy "SummerGlo After Party" featuring a live musical encore alongside LED hoopers, stilt walkers, jugglers, a fully illuminated playground, and glow-in-the-dark merchandise.
FREE
The Situation Room Experience: Washington’s Cabinet | June 30, 10 AM-12 PM
George Washington Presidential Library, Mount Vernon, VA
The George Washington Presidential Library, in partnership with Made By Us, is hosting a fast-paced, immersive roleplaying game set in 1790s Philadelphia during Washington's second term. Designed for high school students and adults, this interactive 75-minute experience challenges participants to step into the roles of the presidential Cabinet, senators, foreign diplomats, press members, and Native American leaders, collectively managing real-time domestic and international crises that shape the young nation.
An American Celebration at Mount Vernon | July 4, 9 AM-5 PM
George Washington’s Estate | Mount Vernon, VA
This full-day, family-friendly event features a series of highly patriotic programs, including 18th-century historic demonstrations, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a review of Continental Army troops, and live musical performances. Guests can also enjoy an active military encampment, a vintage hot-air balloon display, a moving naturalization ceremony welcoming new U.S. citizens, and a unique daytime fireworks show launched directly over the Potomac River.
Fairfax 250 | June & July
Sites throughout Fairfax County, VA
Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by walking the grounds of historic sites, exploring nature parks and trails, and stepping into the stories that shaped our nation. Take part in living history events, join hands-on programs, hike with guides, and engage in community celebrations that honor the past, highlight the present, and shape the future. Purchase tickets online.
- Lake Fairfax Park Independence Day Celebration | June 27, Noon-10 PM
- 250th Discovery Map
- Mill in Motion at Colvin Run Mill | July 5 & 19
- The Declaration of Independence in 1776 and Today | July 11, 10-11 AM
History on Tap at Honor Brewing | July 9, 4:30 - 8 PM
Honor Brewing Company, Sterling, VA
Raise a glass to 250 years of American military history at Honor Brewing Company! The Army Historical Foundation is hosting an evening of food, drinks, mini history lectures, trivia, and raffle drawings benefiting the National Army Museum. Share your Army story or record a message of thanks for a Soldier or Veteran on camera. Can't make it that day? Honor Brewing will donate 10% of Classic Lager proceeds to the Foundation all month long through their Charity Tap Line program, so every pint counts.
