Family events in Alexandria, VA

Puppy Playgroup offers a guided social and exercise session for dogs younger than two years. The drop-in fee is $15, no booking is required, and you can stay as long as you wish. Staff are present to support safe, positive interactions and to coach you on working your pup over low agility obstacles. The space is climate controlled, making it a comfortable place to practice obedience skills with helpful distractions. Friends can attend, and new pups are welcome at Frolick. Puppies must have completed all vaccinations, including the rabies series, which typically means they are at least four to five months old.

Returning for another visit, the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck offers supercute treats and merchandise, available while supplies last.

Celebrate the first birthday of Inkandescent Kids magazine at Elaine's Literary Salon with a kid-focused celebration that encourages children to think critically like reporters. The event runs for four hours and includes in-person activities such as meeting children’s book authors, student artists and musicians, plus a cooking demonstration with a chef from Elaine’s restaurant, and more.

The DC Road Runners Club and the Potomac Valley Track Club are hosting Family Night at the Track and Meet of Miles at Yorktown High School in Arlington, Virginia. The evening offers kid-friendly 400 meter and 800 meter fun runs, several heats of the mile to accommodate different paces, and a 3000 meter race for those interested in a longer effort. Race director Paul Ryan will oversee the meet for a smooth and welcoming experience for runners of all ages.

Beginners ages 7 to 12 can step into the spotlight at a rock band camp that teaches through play. No prior experience is needed. Campers explore different instruments and build skills through musical games and hands on activities in a supportive setting for new musicians. Throughout the week, participants rehearse songs Monday through Friday to get ready to perform with a band on stage. The experience wraps up with a concert for family and friends at the end of the week.

Little Theatre of Alexandria offers a Summer Camp program with 48 weeklong options designed for young creatives from toddlers through teens. Participants can explore acting, improv, musical theatre, Broadway-style song and dance, teen-focused improv, filmmaking, fantasy roleplay adventures, backstage and technical skills, and story-centered activities for the youngest learners. Each course runs for one week and is available in full day, half day, or extended day formats, with selections organized by age and experience. Instruction combines professional guidance with a lively, supportive atmosphere that helps students grow skills and confidence. Advance registration is required, space is limited, and a limited number of partial scholarships are available.

JR Game Coding at Code Ninjas Alexandria turns a love of technology into an engaging, hands-on learning experience. Guided by Code Senseis, kids build valuable tech skills and make new friends while developing leadership, creativity, and computational thinking. Activities draw on themes children enjoy, including robotics, Roblox, Minecraft, YouTube, and more. It is a memorable way for young learners to grow their confidence and look toward the future.

Explore the key landmarks of Arlington National Cemetery on a guided walk led by historian and criminologist Madeline Feierstein, who previously worked at the cemetery. The route blends well-known memorials with quieter gravesites connected to people who helped shape the nation, paired with context that brings lesser known history to light. The pace adjusts to the group, whether you prefer to linger or move quickly, and questions are encouraged throughout. The guide is experienced with both historical background and practical logistics at the cemetery. This experience suits families, couples, and devoted history fans, and is offered on Thursdays and some Saturdays.

Walk-in crafting is offered during Craft Bar hours, with no registration needed. Participants can choose a mini wood or canvas project from the Craft Bar and use the workshop studio space and art supplies to bring it to life. Another option is to pour a scented candle, creating a custom fragrance at the Scent Bar. Candles cannot be taken home right away because they need time to solidify. They can be picked up during regular business hours, and should cure for about a week before lighting. A custom beaded bracelet can also be made at the Bracelet bAR.