Family events in Rockville, MD

Learn how the U.S. Botanic Garden keeps its plants healthy by detecting and managing pests and pathogens in an informal, on-site Expert Is In program. Visit the Conservatory Garden Court to speak with Chelsea McKinley, the USBG Plant Health Specialist, about the approaches used in the Garden. Questions are welcome for a direct conversation with a USBG plant science professional. This program is free and does not require registration.

The Mystics face the Connecticut Sun at CareFirst Arena. The first 1,500 attendees will receive a windbreaker. Capital One cardholder offers are available. Bags are not permitted. For VIP, hospitality, or group tickets, call 1-877-DC-HOOP1.

Give your dog a fun day of play with a lunch that is packed with protein. Bring your pup in and let them enjoy a protein bowl at lunchtime.

Open gaming at Labyrinth welcomes players of all experience levels. Try something new or revisit modern favorites like Catan, Splendor, and Ticket to Ride, with access to a library of more than 800 games to explore. Seating is limited and available on a first come basis, and no registration is required. Staff and regular attendees are on hand to teach rules and offer guidance. The event is primarily geared toward adults and provides a relaxed setting to learn, play, and connect with others who enjoy board games.

A lively, kid-centered evening with a playful theme, this event packs in active fun from start to finish. Children will stay moving with a mix of games, relays, tumbling, obstacle courses, and other fitness-focused activities. Pizza will be served.

At Rocktobierfest in Rockville Town Center, School of Rock Rockville will be on site with a hands-on experience. Visitors can meet the team, try instruments, pick up giveaways, and take advantage of special discounts on programs.

A Civic Center Park Puppet Show brings the world of Blue Sky Puppets to life with Rufus, a shy pup separated from his owner. Caught in the rain and feeling hungry, Rufus turns to the audience for help, then crosses paths with Dr. Tooth, a walrus who practices dentistry. Their encounter becomes a gentle lesson about embracing differences, as Dr. Tooth comes to see that Rufus’s uniqueness makes him special, and the story wraps with a happy ending. Recommended for children ages 3 to 10, with a hands-on craft included. Two performances are planned. General admission is $4 for Rockville residents and $6 for nonresidents. Presented as a City of Rockville program. No exchanges.

UCLA visits the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium in College Park, bringing added intrigue with UCLA’s move into the Big Ten. Contrasting approaches and unfamiliar matchups raise the significance early in the season, turning this contest into a useful benchmark for both programs. A lively campus scene and an energized student section are anticipated, setting the stage for a charged game-day atmosphere.

Audi Field sets the stage for a National Women’s Soccer League clash as the Washington Spirit face Angel City FC. These two ambitious sides arrive with contrasting styles, so details like set pieces, quick transitions, and late tactical tweaks could decide the outcome. Expect elite women’s soccer in an energetic stadium atmosphere.

Experience a historical tour of Glenview Mansion and its formal gardens that honors the estate’s 100th year with the City of Rockville. Registration is available online with timeslot selection, and course number 40375 applies. For questions, call 240-314-8692 or email civiccenterprograms@rockvillemd.gov.

Purple Heart Homes hosts a public build that will showcase the creation of an accessible modular home over seven days, with every step visible to visitors. Watch the house rise from start to finish, underscoring the importance of safe, accessible housing for veterans. The schedule includes an opening ceremony to launch the effort, multiple days of on-site construction, and a closing celebration once the home is complete. Admission is free. This effort serves as a national example of communities, volunteers, and partners working together to ensure veterans have a secure place to live. Partnership opportunities are available for mission-driven companies and organizations, including options for national recognition, volunteer involvement, VIP experiences, and year-round visibility through the 2027 Annual Event Series.

This free, family friendly music showcase at Penn Social DC celebrates the end of the summer season with live sets by students from School of Rock DC/Cleveland Park in a professional concert setting. Expect energetic performances that highlight months of practice, teamwork, and musical growth. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Set times will be shared closer to the event.

At Nationals Park, the New York Mets meet the Washington Nationals in a pivotal National League clash late in the season. With divisional stakes and a potential impact on the playoff picture, the intensity runs high. This matchup offers a clear look at how both clubs respond under pressure when every inning matters.