As the DMV welcomes the month of August, get ready for a weekend full of laughs, excitement and enjoyment for the whole family — including pets!
Check out a handful of the many events happening and dive into the Washington Informer Calendar for more.
Thursday, July 30
Fairfax County Carnival and Fair
10 a.m. – 7 p.m. | $10
Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA 20171
Enjoy old-fashioned family fun, carnival games and rides, tractor demos, exhibits and shows, fair food, live entertainment and live animals at this year’s Fairfax County Carnival and Fair.
Noon – 1 p.m. | Free
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304
Want to improve on line dancing skills, pick up new tricks or find community in fellow dancers? Join the Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library in their intermediate level class to improve flexibility and enhance memory. Work the dance floors!
This class is not intended for beginners.
Friday, July 31
5 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. | Free
The U.S. National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
Purchase food from local food trucks to fuel an evening adventure at the United States National Arboretum! Vendors rotate weekly.
Food Truck Fridays are hosted by the Friends of the National Arboretum and are held all summer long during summer evening hours.
ASL Open Mic | 450 K | Last Fridays | hosted by Wade Green
9 p.m. – 11 p.m. | $5 online & $8 at the door
Busboys and Poets 450 K St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
On this night, American Sign Language (ASL) users and viewers from all corners of life will come together to recite a poem, song, short skit or jokes. Come out and enjoy the wonderful environment while dining, drinking and socializing.
The host, Wade Green is a deaf dancer, choreographer and interpretive artist known for his passionate delivery and soulful approach to his craft. With a body of work stretching more than 20 years, he has performed professionally coast to coast. He now resides in the DMV area, juggling a career and pursuing degrees at Gallaudet University and Howard University.
All are welcome to this engaging event and it’s a great opportunity for those learning ASL to practice their skills.
Saturday, Aug. 1
4 p.m – 7 p.m| $25 to $50
Key Bridge Boathouse 3500 Water Street Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20007
Paddle for a Purpose is a fundraiser for Lucky Dog Animal Rescue with the goal of raising critical funds to help save homeless and at-risk dogs and cats. Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of kayaking, paddleboarding, and community spirit with breathtaking views of the Potomac River and Georgetown.
Guests can expect paddleboard and kayak rentals included with their donation, refreshments, a Wine Pull Raffle, and adoptable dogs on-site. Whether a seasoned paddler or just looking for a good time for a great cause, this is the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon with friends, family, and fellow animal lovers.
50% of proceeds support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue’s lifesaving mission.
Sunday, Aug. 2
The Black Gay Flea Market: Summer Kickback
Noon to 4 p.m.| $8
Wunder Garten 1101 1st Street Northeast Washington, D.C., 20002
Hosted by QueerTalk DC, this is a space created to celebrate Black LGBTQ+ creatives, artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and the community that shows up for them. Come spend the afternoon shopping with local vendors, discovering new brands, supporting small businesses, and connecting with people from across the DMV.
Beyond the market, this event is bringing the vibes all day, with cards for Spades games, a dunk tank, food and drinks from Wundergarten, and sets from DJ Jam2x and DJ Lauren Jay!
Whether coming to shop, hang out, meet new people, or just be in community, the Black Gay Flea Market is about making space for Black queer joy, creativity, and connection.
Please note the venue is 21+.
