From jazz festivals and car shows to museums, magic shows and baseball games, here's how to make the most of Labor Day weekend with the whole family in the DC area.

A long weekend in the DC area is a great opportunity to enjoy family time. The best family-friendly experiences for Labor Day include everything from outdoor music festivals and car shows to a family meal after a live concert on the Capital lawn. DC offers some great options for your family to enjoy Labor Day weekend this year.

Before the weekend ends, go hear live music at DC JazzFest located in the heart of the nation's capital or see one of the most talked-about magic shows in the area. The whole family can enjoy Labor Day at the Gaithersburg's 87th Annual Labor Day Parade.

In this guide we've rounded up the best things for families to do for Labor Day this year. Whether it's an outdoor adventure or family meal, the DC area offers a great variety of activities to enjoy Labor Day weekend.

Experience DC JazzFest

Blending heritage, history, culture and music, DC JazzFest is the place to be this Labor Day weekend in the heart of the nation's capital. Taking place Aug. 27–31, this beloved festival has been a cultural cornerstone in the DC community for more than two decades, celebrating all things jazz with performances from Grammy-winning legends and rising stars alike. The family-friendly event features lively shows across music venues in all four quadrants of the city.

The primary event — DC JazzFest at The Wharf — offers an animated urban experience at the Wharf and offers an exclusive location for a full festival experience. Tickets start at as little as $25. Featuring a scenic outdoor stage, the Wharf is the festival's central hub. This year's unique theme features a tribute to Jazz icons such as Duke Ellington and John Coltrane, Women in Jazz and Global Jazz Fusion showcasing artists who blend jazz with world music. Special programs will be held including masterclasses and workshops led by top jazz musicians, youth and family events featuring interactive jazz performances for all ages and late-night jam sessions showcasing unscripted performances where musicians improvise together.

  • Date: Aug. 27-31, 2025
  • Location: 1001 7th St. SW, Washington DC
  • Phone: (855) 332-7767

Know before you go

  • Admission & Tickets
    You do not need a ticket to listen to performances from the Wharf Street promenade. To access the performances on District Pier or Transit Pier, Union Stage or Arena Stage, a ticket is required. Three ticket options are offered including general admission, VIP passes and multi-day passes. Tickets start from $25 and can be purchased on their website.

  • Parking Info
    Plan for lots of vehicular traffic and limited parking at The Wharf. Instead of driving, ride the Metro to Waterfront Station and walk one block to The Wharf, or ride Metro to L'Enfant Plaza and connect to The Wharf on the free Southwest Shuttle or consider taking Bikeshare.

    If you can't avoid driving, plan to park in one of their three underground parking garages that are open around the clock. Or, utilize one of the nearby off-site parking garages (view PDF map), including Ace Parking at L'Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW), L'Enfant East Parking Garage (840 D St SW), or the 1100 4th St SW Garage.

    Music at DC JazzFest® at The Wharf starts at noon Aug. 30 and Aug. 31. The Wharf is open early and you are encouraged to arrive earlier and experience the shops, restaurants, local vendors and entertainment at The District Wharf, DC's premier waterfront destination. Be sure to include Arena Stage on the list just steps away with performances in the Kogod and Meet the Artist conversations in the Grand Lobby.

87th Annual Gaithersburg Labor Day Parade

Celebrate the unofficial end of summer at Gaithersburg's 87th Annual Labor Day Parade for a festive, rain-or-shine tradition. Expect marching bands, dancers, antique cars, fire trucks, equestrian units, clowns, costumed characters and community groups parading down East Diamond and Russell Avenues.

Grab delicious bites from local vendors at Olde Towne Plaza and the fire station parking lot. With free shuttles, accessible parking and plenty of shaded viewing spots, it's a fun, family-friendly event you won't want to miss. Pack water and sunscreen, especially if you're planning to be out in the sun for the full parade.

  • Date: 10 a.m. Sept. 1
  • Location: Olde Towne Gaithersburg, 1 S. Summit Ave., Gaithersburg, MD
  • Phone: (301) 258-6350

Know before you go

  • Admission & Tickets
    Admission is free. Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot—Russell Avenue has great shaded areas for comfort. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating along the parade route.
  • Parking Info
    Free shuttle service runs from Lakeforest Mall starting at 9 a.m.—take advantage to avoid parking hassles.

National Symphony Orchestra Labor Day Concert

The annual National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) Labor Day concert is a free, star-studded event held on the West Front lawn of the U.S. Capitol, continuing a tradition that spans over 130 years. Presented by Congress and the Secretary of the Interior, the NSO performs three signature Patriotic Concerts each summer — Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day — with the Labor Day performance marking the close of the holiday weekend.

The concert typically begins at 8 p.m., weather permitting, with guests welcomed to bring lawn chairs and picnic across the West Front terrace and lawn — just note that food is allowed but no alcohol or glass bottles are permitted. It's a brilliant, family-friendly finale to the holiday weekend: enjoy orchestral classics under the Capitol's grandeur, free to all, and set against the iconic skyline of the National Mall.

  • Date: 8 p.m. Aug. 31
  • Phone: (202) 416-8000
  • Location: 2 E Capitol St., Washington, DC

Know before you go

  • Admission & Tickets
    Admission is free. Arrive early for the best lawn spots — space fills up quickly on the West Front. Pack a blanket or lawn chair to stay comfortable during the concert.
  • Bring snacks or a picnic, but remember: no alcohol, glass bottles or large coolers are allowed.
  • Security screening is required, so give yourself extra time to enter.
  • Parking Info
    Public transportation is highly recommended. Parking is limited near the Capitol.

Experience a Carshow

Car enthusiasts of all ages are welcome at the annual Labor Day car show produced by the City of Fairfax and the Clifton Lions Club. The family-friendly show is free of charge and showcases everything including antiques, classics, foreign, customs, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, motorcycles and more.

The mission of the show is to raise money for local charitable service organizations. It's an open event with vehicles of any type welcome to participate. Over 250 show cars from 24 different manufacturers participated in last year's event and over 5,000 spectators enjoyed all the sights, sounds and food.

  • Date: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 1
  • Location: The show is held in the heart of Fairfax City along University Drive between Sager and Armstrong Streets and the adjacent parking lots, adjacent to Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive.

Enjoy a Family Meal

A long weekend is the perfect time to enjoy a family meal at one of DC's many great restaurants. Whether it's an excellent brunch at Founding Farmers or Ted's Bulletin or an affordable dinner at Joia, DC has plenty of options to make it a great Labor Day weekend.

Founding Farmers: From breakfast to brunch, lunch to dinner, their patios are open and ready to welcome you. Whether you're soaking up sunshine or sipping under the stars, they have the perfect outdoor spot for your next meal.

  • Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
  • Location: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
  • Phone: (202) 822-8783

Ted's Bulletin: Your local neighborhood spot with something for everyone where you can savor "The Every Day." Ted's features a diverse menu of reimagined American classics with all-day breakfast and satisfying portions in an inviting atmosphere. Enjoy made-from-scratch favorites like french toast, chicken and waffles, steaks, burgers and indulgent desserts.

  • Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
  • Location: 1005 First St. NE, Suite 3, Washington, DC
  • Phone: (202) 793-6700

Joia: One of Washington Post's Food Critic's favorite spots right now is serving up a minimalist, affordable menu of delicious smash burgers, fries and purple ube soft-serve ice cream.

  • Hours: 11 a.m.-9 pm. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday
  • Location: 3213 Mount Pleasant St. NW, Washington, DC
  • Phone: (202) 999-8195

Experience the DC Festival of Magic

The fifth annual Festival of Magic is bringing together the finest magicians from around the world for an electrifying showcase of mind-blowing illusions, jaw-dropping sleight of hand and side-splitting comedy. Whether you're a lifelong magic fan or a curious newcomer, the DC Festival of Magic promises a weekend of astonishment, laughter and pure entertainment for the whole family — all in the heart of the nation's capital.

A collaboration between the historic Capital Hilton and renowned mentalist and magician Brian Curry, this festival transforms Labor Day weekend into a celebration of wonder, illusion and unforgettable performances. Booking a stay in the heart of magic at the Capital Hilton will also provide luxury accommodations, exclusive festival perks and the convenience of being right where the magic happens.

  • Date: Aug. 29-31
  • Location: 1001 16th St. NW Washington, DC
  • Phone: (800) 445-8667

Know before you go

  • Admission & Tickets
    Scheduling for each performance can be found online along with individual ticket purchase. Once you arrive, follow signs to the show and you'll see the host standing outside the performance area. If you purchased tickets online, the name you used to buy the tickets will be on the host's guest list. Tickets are limited so early purchase is recommended.
  • Parking Info
    Valet is available at the hotel. Parking garages and street parking are limited, but available.

The closest Metro Stations are McPherson Square Station (Orange, Silver Blue) and Farragut North (Red)

Explore DC with an Old Town Trolley

Whether you're a local or just visiting, an Old Town Trolley Tour is the perfect way to visit all the Washington, DC, attractions and historic sites in one weekend. You can hop on and off at your leisure so you can experience the activities and sights that interest you and your family the most. Whether you're just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, they've got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in DC.

The finest, most highly-trained and knowledgeable guides will lead you and your family on an adventure like none other. Offering exclusive authorization to historic sites like the Arlington National Cemetery will make it an unique, unforgettable experience. Their easy-to-use interactive map will help you maximize your Washington, DC, Tour experience with helpful information on the best shopping, entertainment and restaurants in the area.

  • Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
  • Location: You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of their convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of their stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.
  • Phone: (844) 356-2603

Know before you go

  • Admission & tickets
    Old Town Trolley tours offer a variety of tour options with prices starting as low as $19.50 for the Arlington National Cemetery Tour. Tickets can be purchased online through their website or at on-site sales depots.

  • Tour route and times
    In total, the day tour route is approximately one hour and 30 minutes long. Old Town Trolley Tours of DC operates the city's largest fleet of sightseeing vehicles and this allows them to pick up and drop off more frequently than any other trolley company. The frequency of the trolleys depends on the time of the year, as well as traffic and weather conditions.

    You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of their convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of their stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.