Kids can go apple picking near NYC at Alstede Farms, where low-to-the-ground trees are perfect for little pickers. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
Apple Picking near NYC: Best Apple Farms and Apple Festivals for Kids
Try your hand at corn husking and more analog entertainment during the Corn Fest at the Queens County Farm Museum. Photo courtesy of the Queens County Farm Museum
Best 2025 Fall Festivals and Fairs in NYC this September and October
The Bronx Zoo celebrates Boo at the Zoo with family activities all October long. Photo by Julie Larsen Maher
Best Halloween Events in NYC 2025 for Kids and Families
GUIDE
NYC Fall Day Trips Guide: Orchards, Farms, Festivals, and Kid-Friendly Getaways 2025
All aboard for a day of fun when vintage transit vehicles take over Brooklyn Bridge Park for the New York Transit Museum's annual bus festival. Photo courtesy of the museum
22 Best Things To Do in NYC with Kids September 2025, According to Mommy Poppins Editors
Italian pride—and tasty eats—are on the menu at the annual Feast of San Gennaro, which takes over Little Italy in September. Photo by Jody Mercier
61 Free Activities in NYC September 2025 for Kids
The 2025-2026 public school year for NYC kids starts on Thursday, September 4.
Here's the NYC Public School Calendar for 2025-2026
Get ready for back to school with all the right supplies, classes, and tips.
GUIDE
Back-to-School Guide 2025-2026
See the skyline from a whole new vantage point on the Roosevelt Island Tram. Photo courtesy of NYCGo
Ultimate New York City Bucket List: 100 Things To Do in NYC with Kids Before They Grow Up
Stranger Things: The First Shadow plays at the Marquis Theatre and gives the popular Neflix show a prequel. Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
Best Broadway Shows for Kids and Families in 2025
Tom's Restaurant is situated on a fairly sleepy corner in Morningside Heights despite its high-profile turn in Seinfeld. Photo by Jody Mercier
Lights, Camera, New York! Where to Find Iconic NYC Movie Sites with Kids
The Ausable Chasm has been described as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks and it's one of our top 100 things to do in New York State with kids. Photo by Anna Fader
Ultimate New York Bucket List: 100 Things To Do with Kids in NY State
Diving into the sprinkle pool at the Museum of Ice Cream is a great way to cure rainy day blues. Photo by Jody Mercier
47 Fun Indoor Activities in NYC for a Rainy Day
Vinland Playground got a fresh upgrade in Bay Ridge. Photo by NYC Parks/Daniel Avila
Jaw-Dropping New Playgrounds in NYC to Explore with Kids Now
Summer camps help kids develop social skills and have fun
GUIDE
NYC Summer Camp Guide
The Peninsula New York rolls out the red carpet for kids—and their grown ups!
Family-Friendly Hotels in New York City with Perks for Kids
Climb on platforms dangling from ropes at Hester Street Playground. Photo by Jody Mercier
NYC's Best Playgrounds: 21 Parks Worthy of a Subway Schlep
There's always a cool new piece of public art to see and interact with in NYC. Photo by Jody Mercier
100 Free Things To Do in NYC with Kids
Brooklyn's Flying Apple offers action-packed fun for kids of all ages.
24 Best Kids' Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in NYC
Discover the NYC-themed play space hidden inside the Toys
27 Free Things To Do Indoors in NYC: Free Places To Play Indoors on Cold and Rainy Days
Photo courtesy of PLAY Greenpoint.
GUIDE
Guide to Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in NYC
Free activities for Kids in NYC include the Children's Museum of the Arts, which has pay-what-you-wish Thursdays from 4-6pm. Photo courtesy of the museum
GUIDE
Free Things To Do in NYC with Kids Guide
Visit the 180 Pool at the Crystal Springs Resort. Photo courtesy of the resort
14 Family-Friendly Weekend Getaways near NYC
Explore modern humanity through all-new world-wandering exhibitions at Mmuseumm.
Weird, Wacky, and Wonderful Under-the-Radar Museums in NYC that Kids Love
Kids' classes like art lessons can help your NYC child grow and develop
GUIDE
Guide to NYC Classes for Kids
For an only-in-NYC experience, head to the Top of the Rock to enjoy the view. Photo by Jody Mercier
Best Attractions and Things To Do near NYC that are Kid-Friendly
Tea Around Town combines a sumptuous meal with a unique view NYC landmarks! Photo by Jody Mercier
25 Best NYC Tours for Families: From Boat Rides to Free Walking Tours and More
The American Museum of Natural History's blue whale is an NYC icon, and the entire museum is one of the best children's museums in NYC. Photo by R. Mickens/courtesy of AMNH
Best Museums for Kids in NYC: Children's Museums and Family-Friendly Museums in NYC
GUIDE
Guide to Kids' Birthday Parties in NYC
Registration is now open for the reasonably priced summer camps at YMCA locations in NYC.
Free and Cheap Summer Camps in NYC for Kids
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has 75 animal exhibits and is home to more than 7,000 animals. Photo courtesy of the aquarium
Best Aquariums to Visit from the NYC Metro Area with Kids
Get a Broadway-caliber serenade during a birthday dinner at Ellen's Stardust Diner.
Best Fun Restaurants for Kids' Birthdays in NYC
Get a birds eye view of the skyline from the Edge observation deck at Hudson Yards. Plan a visit near sundown to watch the city lights come to life. Photo by Jody Mercier
3 Days in NYC with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom
Feed a crowd with extra large, classic, New York-style pizza slices without breaking the bank. Photo by Jody Mercier
NYC on a Budget: Cheap Things To Do and Money Saving Tips for Families
These boredom-busting activities turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.
75 Indoor Activities for Kids on a Rainy Day
The Met offers pay-what-you wish admission at all times to New Yorkers and kids always attend for free. Photo by Jody Mercier
Free Museums and Free Museum Days in NYC for Kids
Kids can while away hours of a day with a set of watercolors and a stack of new paper for painting. Photo by Sara Marentette
Crafts for Kids: 100 Awesome Art Projects
No visit to NYC is complete without an up-close encounter with the Statue of Liberty. Photo by Jess Laird
40 Best NYC Attractions to Do with Kids Right Now
Teach 'em to tie during downtime.
65 Life Skills to Teach Kids at Every Age
GUIDE
NYC Kids Summer Guide: 728 Best Festivals, Deals, Activities & Free Things to Do
Take a hike with your little one on a family day trip from NYC.
GUIDE
Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways for NYC Kids
Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander
67 Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home
Hester Street Playground. Photo by Jody Mercier
GUIDE
Playgrounds & Parks NYC Guide
Suncatcher_Liz Baill @creativishmom
GUIDE
Crafts for Kids Guide: Thousands of Craft Ideas
Harvest Glow is one of two big seasonal events opening at the Bronx Zoo this weekend. Photo by Terria Clay/courtesy of the Bronx Zoo
Harvest Glow, Ragamuffin Parade, and More Things To Do this Weekend in NYC with Kids

DC's Free Concerts and Outdoor Music Festivals for Families Summer 2025

Enjoy a free concert on Transit Pier every Wednesday evening. Photo courtesy of Wharf DC
Enjoy a free concert on Transit Pier every Wednesday evening. Photo courtesy of Wharf DC
6/6/25 - By Stephanie Shipman

Free concerts and outdoor music festivals are a summertime staple for many families, and they're back in full swing all across DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

These free concerts and music festivals welcome families with kids of all ages, and some are even geared specifically towards children. They span all genres of music—from pop and rock to blues and jazz—and take place in gardens, parks, plazas, and even on the waterfront. Grab some chairs or a blanket, pack a picnic, and get ready to enjoy some live music.

Our Washington, DC Kids Summer Guide has even more ideas for fresh-air fun, like free outdoor movies near DC. And, be sure to keep checking our DC events calendar as more outdoor free concerts are announced.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Jazz in the Garden photo courtesy of the National Gallery of Art
Jazz in the Garden photo courtesy of the National Gallery of Art

Free Concerts and Music Festivals in DC

Jazz in the Garden (at National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden)

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Fridays, through July 11
Every Friday evening from late May through mid July, the National Gallery of Art's outdoor Sculpture Garden comes alive with musical performances ranging from jazz to Afro-Cuban and bluegrass. READ MORE

Capitol Riverfront Summer Concert Series

Washington, DC
Fridays, July 11 - August 1
Come to the Yards Park boardwalk to enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, and food and drinks. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike. READ MORE

Rock the Dock Concert Series at The Wharf

District Wharf
Wednesdays, through August 27
District Wharf hosts free concerts on Transit Pier every Wednesday evening from June through August. Genres include pop, R&B, jazz, country, and more. READ MORE

Art Place at Fort Totten Friday Concert Series

Fort Totten
Fridays, through August 29
From July to September, families can enjoy free live music every Friday, from rock and blues to hip-hop and indie. Before the music, families can check out the The Kid’s Maker Space series with hands-on activities and crafts from 4-7pm at the corner of Ingraham St and 4th St NE.  READ MORE
The Tides and Tunes Summer Concert Series takes place on Thursday evenings. Photo courtesy of the Annapolis Maritime Museum
The Tides and Tunes Summer Concert Series takes place on Thursday evenings. Photo courtesy of the Annapolis Maritime Museum

Free Concerts and Music Festivals in Maryland

Summer Twilight Concert Series at Brookside Gardens

Wheaton
Tuesdays, June 3-24
On Tuesdays in June, Brookside Gardens opens its gardens for free in the evening for a series of performances. Families can bring picnics and blankets and enjoy a twilight concert. READ MORE

Gaithersburg Children’s Summer Concert Series

Gaithersburg
Wednesdays, June 4 - July 30
The Children’s Summer Concert Series returns on most Wednesdays in June and July with a variety of fun musical performances. READ MORE

Bethesda Summer Concert Series (at The Streetery)

Bethesda
Fridays, through July 25 (also on September 5)
The Streetery in Bethesda hosts free concerts from a wide variety of musical genres every Friday evening from 6-8pm. READ MORE

Summer Sounds in the Plaza at Wisconsin Place

Chevy Chase
Thursdays, June 5-26
The Shops at Wisconsin Place host a summer music series every Thursday in June.  READ MORE

Tides and Tunes Summer Concert Series (at Annapolis Maritime Museum)

Annapolis
Thursdays, June 12 - August 14
Enjoy free concerts on Thursday evenings at 7pm at the Annapolis Maritime Museum's waterfront McNasby campus. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Bring blankets or chairs. READ MORE

Summer Concert Series at Glen Echo

Glen Echo, MD - Thursdays, June 12 - August 21
Families are invited to enjoy free concerts at Glen Echo Park every Thursday at 7:30pm in the Bumper Car Pavilion. Dancers are welcome and parking is free. READ MORE

Live from the Lawn at Strathmore

North Bethesda
Wednesdays, July 9 - August 20
Live from the Lawn is a free outdoor concert series presented by Strathmore on Wednesday evenings this summer. Don't forget to pack a picnic! READ MORE

Cool Concerts for Kids at Strathmore

North Bethesda
Thursdays, July 10-24
This companion series to Live from the Lawn is geared towards younger audiences, inviting them to engage and interact with music. READ MORE

Salute the Sunset Concert Series at National Harbor

National Harbor
Saturdays, through September 13
Also on July 4 & 17, September 11
On Saturday evenings throughout the summer, enjoy a free US military band concert at National Harbor. Ensembles from a variety of United States military bands perform on the plaza starting at 7pm. READ MORE

Lakefront Live at Rio

Gaithersburg
Fridays, through September 26
Enjoy free live music from local bands every Friday night through September on the Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg. Adults can visit the beer garden tent to purchase food and drinks. READ MORE
Rock out at Vienna's Summer on the Green Concert Series. Photo courtesy of the event
Rock out at Vienna's Summer on the Green Concert Series. Photo courtesy of the event

Free Concerts and Music Festivals in Northern Virginia

Jazz @ Met (at National Landing's Metropolitan Park)

Arlington
Thursdays, through June 12
Enjoy live jazz at Metropolitan Park with a free, weekly concert series brought to you by the DC Jazz Festival and National Landing BID. Grab some bites from on-site vendors Good Company and Toby's Ice Cream, or nearby Met Park restaurants.  While you enjoy the music, participate in a free arts activity hosted by the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington, part of their MoCA on the Move program at Met Park. READ MORE

Summer Concerts at McLean Central Park Pavilion

Mclean
Thursdays, June 19 - July 31
The Summer Concert Series is getting a refresh! Enjoy free concerts at McLean Central Park's brand-new pavilion.  READ MORE

Concerts in the Park at Cherry Hill Park

Falls Church
Thursdays, June 19 - July 31
Bring a blanket and a picnic to Cherry Hill Park's free Thursday-evening concert series, featuring local musicians of various genres. READ MORE

Lubber Run Summer Concert Series

Arlington
Fridays - Sundays, June 6 - August 1 (except July 4)
The Lubber Run Summer Concert Series features free performances from a variety of genres including big band, blues, soul, and orchestral music. Concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings are for all, while Sunday mornings feature children's performers.  READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Mosaic District

Fairfax
Saturdays, July 5 - August 9
A different children's entertainer performs for free on select Saturday evenings at Strawberry Lane in Mosaic District. Performers include musicians, a magician, and a storyteller. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Frying Pan Farm Park

Herndon
Wednesdays, June 18 - August 13 (except July 30)
As part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series, a different children's entertainer performs for free on most Wednesday mornings at the Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center Pavilion. Performers range from puppeteers to magicians to musicians. READ MORE

Providence Presents: Nottoway Nights

Vienna
Thursdays, July 3 - August 14
Families can enjoy free concerts on Thursday evenings at Nottoway Park in Vienna, ranging from bluegrass to Mexicachian to swing. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Chantilly
Saturdays, June 14 - August 16
A different children's entertainer performs for free on Saturday mornings at the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park amphitheater as part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series. Performers range from puppeteers to magicians to musicians. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Burke Lake Park

Fairfax Station
Saturdays, June 14 - August 16
As part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series, a different children's entertainer performs for free every Saturday morning at the Burke Lake Park amphitheater. Performers range from puppeteers to magicians to musicians. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Mason District Park

Annandale
Saturdays, June 14 - August 16
As part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series, a different children's entertainer performs for free every Saturday morning at the Mason District Park amphitheater. Performers range from puppeteers to magicians to musicians. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Wakefield Park

Annandale
Saturdays, June 14 - August 16
A different children's entertainer performs for free on Saturday mornings at Wakefield Park as part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series. Performers range from puppeteers to magicians to musicians. READ MORE

Summer on the Green Concert Series at Vienna Town Green

Vienna
Fridays, June 6- August 22
Also on June 8 & 11 & September 19
The Town of Vienna hosts a special concert series every Friday evening at 6:30pm. Bring chairs or blankets and pack a picnic. READ MORE

Friday Night Live! at Herndon Town Green

Herndon
Fridays, through August 22
This free outdoor concert series on Herndon's Town Green features the most popular local acts from up and down the East Coast. Most of the bands play rock and roll covers from classic to modern rock. READ MORE

Arts in the Parks Children's Entertainment Series - Sully Historic Site

Chantilly
Saturdays, August 2-23
A different children's entertainer performs for free on select Saturday evenings in August at Sully Historic Site as part of the Fairfax Summer Entertainment Series. Performers include musicians, a magician, and a juggler/puppeteer. An outdoor movie follows.  READ MORE

Summer JAMS on the Town Green

Leesburg
Saturdays, June 7 - August 23 (except July 5 and August 9)
Downtown Leesburg’s popular, laid-back summer concert series is held almost every Saturday from June through August. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Picnics are encouraged! READ MORE

Mount Vernon Nights - Grist Mill Park

Alexandria
Fridays, June 6 - August 29
This series of free concerts at Grist Mill Park features a variety of musical performances reflecting Fairfax County’s diversity, culture, and community spirit. Bring a picnic dinner and a blanket. READ MORE

Mount Vernon Nights - Workhouse Arts Center

Lorton
Saturdays, June 7 - August 30 (except June 28)
This series of free concerts at Workhouse Arts Center features a variety of musical performances reflecting Fairfax County’s diversity, culture, and community spirit. Bring a picnic dinner and a blanket. READ MORE

Concerts on the Green (at Village Centre Green)

Great Falls
Sundays, through August 31
Pack up the family, a blanket, lawn chairs, and a picnic dinner (or grab takeout at a local restaurant!), and head to the Village Green gazebo for a laid-back evening of great music and good times with neighbors. READ MORE

Summerbration Fab Fridays Live Music at Reston Station

Reston
Fridays, through September 19
Fridays just got more fabulous at Reston Station with live music. The complete lineup is available online. READ MORE

Fairfax City Rock the Block (at Old Town Square)

Fairfax
Fourth Friday of the month, through October 24
Head to Old Town Square for live music, a beer garden, food vendors, and more. Make sure to bring chairs or blankets to sit on. READ MORE

Summer on the Plaza Concert Series at Tysons Plaza

Tysons
Various Fridays through August
Enjoy free music on the Tysons Corner Plaza. The entertainment ranges from live acoustic performances from a variety of genres to a DJ playing popular hits. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Annapolis Maritime Museum
Metropolitan Park at National Landing
Burke Lake Park Amphitheater