School’s Out! Discover Free and Low-Cost Summer Activities Across DC
Thursday, June 18, 2026
(Washington, DC) – With today marking the last day of school for students in DC Public Schools (DCPS), Mayor Muriel Bowser is highlighting the full range of summer programming, resources and support available to DC youth and families this summer. From sports and camps to free meals and library programs, the District is ready to make Summer 2026 the best one yet. Throughout the summer, families can visit summer.dc.gov to learn more about programming and opportunities for children and teens.
“Summer in DC is special. We have the number one park system in the country, which includes our playgrounds and pools. We have free world-class museums and modern libraries. We have the best youth jobs program in the country. And we want to make sure our families have the information they need to make the most of it,” said Mayor Bowser. “We’re asking adults in the community to make sure our kids and teens know about what’s available, that they know how to access free meals and register for events like Late Night Hype and that together, we have a great summer.”
DPR Events and Programs
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has a packed summer calendar of free and low-cost events across the city, including the return of Late Night Hype—the District’s carnival-inspired Friday night program giving teens and young adults safe, high-energy spaces to dance, play and connect at recreation centers across the District.
DPR X Washington Wizards Community Basketball Clinic
This Saturday, join us for an exciting day of basketball, community engagement and skill-building at refurbished DPR courts. These free community clinics are designed to bring residents of all ages to enjoy the game of basketball, learn new techniques and foster a sense of community. There will be themed clinics featured such as parent and child sessions, to encourage family participation and bonding.
Where: Barry Farm Recreation Center, 1230 Sumner Road SE
When: Saturday, June 20, 12 pm to 2 pm
Late Night Hype
Come out to Late Night Hype for free, themed teen night events featuring music, dancing, video games, food and a wide range of interactive activities hosted at neighborhood recreation centers. Happening on most Fridays from 7 pm to 11 pm at multiple locations around the city, Late Night Hype is a fun, safe space for District teens to gather and have a great time. Learn more, register, or sign up to become a Late Night Hype volunteer at latenightdrip.splashthat.com.
July 25 – Banneker Pool, 2500 Georgia Avenue NW
Movies on Deck
Movies on Deck allows residents to enjoy a family-friendly movie and a swim in one of DPR’s outdoor pools.
Saturday, July 25 from 7 pm to 10 pm | Banneker Pool, 2500 Georgia Avenue NW