Solstice Saturday in DC 2025: Free Family Fun to Celebrate Summer & Juneteenth

If you’re in or near Washington, DC this weekend, you won’t want to miss Solstice Saturday—a citywide celebration packed with music, creativity, culture, and sunshine! Best part? It’s completely free and full of kid-friendly activities that make it a dream day out for families. Whether you're looking for something hands-on, educational, or just want to soak in good vibes with your little ones, there’s something for everyone.

Here are my top picks for this Saturday, June 21st, that you’ll want to add to your family calendar:

NMAAHC Kids Juneteenth Celebration

10:30 AM–1:30 PM | Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)Free with Registration – Register Here

Looking for a meaningful way to honor Juneteenth with your children? The NMAAHC is hosting a special drop-in style event on the 4th floor overlook—perfect for ages 4 to 8. Kiddos can craft Caribbean-inspired instruments, join a guided drum circle, and learn about how music has historically been used to celebrate freedom and resistance.

Drum Circle Times:

• 11:15 AM

• 12:15 PM

• 1:15 PM

You don’t need to stay the whole time—come when it works best for your family and enjoy the creative, cultural vibes.

Solstice Festival for Kids at the Sculpture Garden

11:00 AM–2:00 PM | National Gallery of Art Sculpture GardenFree – No Registration Needed – More Info Here

Pack a picnic blanket and your favorite snacks because this one is giving storybook summer energy! In partnership with the National Museum of Natural History, this solstice celebration features storytime in the garden, nature-inspired art activities, live acoustic music, and even a tour led by an ecologist.

Don’t forget to check out the whimsical “Little Beasts” exhibit in the National Gallery’s West Building, and for extra adventure, pop over to the Natural History Museum to visit the mammals, bone hall, and insect zoo! This is a great way to connect your kids with nature, art, and science—all in one day.

Rain Plan: In case of inclement weather, everything moves indoors to the National Gallery’s West Building.

Live Hawaiian Music with Isaac Jesse Waipulani Ho’opi’i

4:30 PM | Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art (NMAA)Free – No Registration Needed – Explore Full Schedule

Cap off your Solstice Saturday with laid-back island vibes. Isaac Ho’opi’i brings the sounds of Hawai’i with a family-friendly ukulele performance full of warmth and heart. Kids can dance or relax on a blanket while adults enjoy some soothing music in the evening sun.

Bonus: This museum is staying open late with activities scheduled until 10 PM, so feel free to stay and explore more after the performance!

Tips for Mamas Heading Out:

• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks.

• Baby carriers or lightweight strollers are perfect for navigating museum grounds.

• Consider arriving early for parking or opt for public transit.

• Don’t forget your camera—there will be lots of sweet moments worth capturing!

We’re planning to make a full day of it, and I love how it blends celebration, learning, and play. Let me know if you plan to go too—maybe we’ll see you there!