With the weekend approaching, Montgomery County offers a variety of events and activities for every interest and age group. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live outdoor music, attend cultural festivals, or get the kids ready for the upcoming school year, this weekend has something special for you. From family-friendly games and crafts at the local library to unique outdoor experiences like Zumba classes and a sunflower festival, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your time. Immerse yourself in the weekend with these nine exciting events from August 16-18.
Friday, August 16
Summer afternoon in the library
Bring the whole family to the Connie Morella Library in Bethesda for an afternoon of games, puzzles and crafts. Activities include board and card games such as checkers, chess, Candy Land and Connect Four, as well as puzzles and crafts. The event runs from 3-5 p.m. Friday. The library is located at 7400 Arlington Road, Bethesda. For more information, click here.
Sligo Creek Summer Music Series
Enjoy live outdoor music every Friday from 6-8 p.m. through October 18th at Sligo Creek Golf Course. This Friday, the Melonheads, a rock and roll band, will perform. Barbecue food and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Admission is free. The golf course is located at 9701 Sligo Creek Parkway in Silver Spring. Click here for more information and to reserve a free ticket.
Zumba in the Park
Join us for outdoor Zumba classes every Friday through September 6th at the City of Gaithersburg’s Concert Pavilion. Classes begin at 7 p.m. and are free for all ages and experience levels. The Concert Pavilion is located at 31 South Summit Avenue. Click here for more information.
Note: Zumba in the Park is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. For updated information, check the city’s Facebook page, Twitter feed, or call the inclement weather hotline at 240-805-1148.
Saturday, August 17
Bands and Blooms Sunflower Festival at Whitetails Farm
Enjoy a family-friendly event set in a sunflower field with live music from local bands on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and tents to enjoy performances by Road Trip Poets and Potecasi Slade. Food is available for purchase at Catalyst Hot Dogs, and beer and wine are also available. Tickets are $20 for adults in advance and $25 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Free parking is available. Whitetails Farm is located at 11511 Piedmont Road in Clarksburg. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Here is a view of last year’s sunflower field:
Pictures in the park
Come to Montgomery Parks for a unique photo opportunity at the Black Hill Discovery Center on Saturday from 2-5 p.m. A staff member will take your photo on instant film. Free, no registration required. The Black Hill Discovery Center is located at 20926 Lake Ridge Drive in Boyds. Click here for more information.
Immersive film
The Upper County Outdoor Pool will be showing “Migration” at 7:30 p.m. Clear tubes will be provided; private rafts are not allowed. Cost is $5 per person. Beach chairs will be provided, but you can also bring your own. All youth under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Space is limited and registration is required through ActiveMONTGOMERY. The pool is located at 8211 Emory Grove Road in Gaithersburg.
Sunday, August 18
Back to School Fair
Get ready for the new school year by stopping by the Recreation Department’s Back to School Fair on Sunday at the Upper County Community Recreation Center. Free backpacks and school supplies will be distributed, plus there will be games and a bounce house. Hairdressers and beauticians will be on site. The community center is located at 8201 Emory Grove Road in Gaithersburg. Registration is required through ActiveMONTGOMERY.
Jamaica Festival
Enjoy a day of reggae music, delicious food and vibrant culture at Veterans Plaza on Sunday from 12pm to 9pm. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Jamaica with authentic cuisine, reggae beats and unique crafts. Admission is free. Find out more here.
Art exhibition by Alexander D’Agostino
Discover Alexander D’Agostino’s solo exhibition, “Of Light and Shade,” at VisArts’ Common Ground Gallery, on view through October 6. The exhibition offers a unique, multi-layered exploration of queer history and mythology through chloroprints. A free opening reception is scheduled for September 6 from 7-9 p.m. The gallery is open Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. VisArts is located at 155 Gibbs Street, a short walk from the Rockville Metro station. For more information, click here.
Photo courtesy of the City of Gaithersburg.
