Enjoy jazz shows, new festivals & a Nat Geo Kids “Greeking Out” event at The Parks at Walter Reed

The Parks at Walter Reed are always putting on great community events, and have recently announced new ones coming up. Their popular jazz series gets two new dates, along with new somatic movement and zumba classes. And they’re doing a cool live podcast event featuring National Geographic Kids “Greeking Out” podcast! 

NEW on the Great Lawn (1301 Main Drive NW)

Their final Jazz in The Parks concerts have new dates. Bring a picnic, enjoy local food trucks, and experience the region's award-winning musicians: 

  • Saturday, Sept. 20, 5-8 pm: Featuring singer-songwriter Rochelle Rice of the acclaimed groups Sweet Honey in the Rock and bēheld, along with beloved kids opener Mr. Rob. 

  • Saturday, Oct. 4, 4-7 pm: Featuring the Blues Alley Youth Quartet and Herm Hopkins — don’t miss this unique partnership.

Nat Geo Kids Greeking Out: Join your favorite Greeking Out team Kenny and Jillian for a live podcast event! Meet the podcasters and attend a 45-minute live session with Kenny and the Oracle of Wifi. Come dressed as your favorite character from Greek mythology. Expect yummy vendors on the gorgeous Great Lawn. Plus, you can pick up a copy of their new book, Tales From the Underworld, after the show.

Upcoming Events: 

Somatic Movement (New): Join Coach Kay for a Somatic Movement class on Tuesday evenings this fall. Coach Kay uses basic dance movements, stretching and restorative yoga poses to release the stress and tension in the body. Adaptable for all body types (and bring a chair if you have mobility issues).

  • Tuesdays through Oct. 10, $10 per class, 6:30-7:30 pm, NEW location at the Marketplace Plaza, 7175 12th Street NW

Zumba Saturday Classes (New): Join One Rule Dance on the Plaza on Saturday mornings at 9 am for an easy-to-follow dance routine that gets your blood pumping. These 45 minute classes are designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, so dance your heart out (and bring your water bottle).

  • Every Saturday in September (13, 20, 27), 9 am – 9:45 am, $10 per class, Marketplace Plaza, 7175 12th Street NW

Yoga through Sept. 28: Yoga Heights presents $10 biweekly yoga on Sunday mornings and Thursdays evenings on the gorgeous, green Great Lawn.

Through Sept. 28: DJ Rick G hand dancing events at The Parks have been packed all summer. Don't miss this last opportunity for an all-ages, all-abilities hand dancing event while Rick plays Motown classics, soul and R&B from the '60s, '70s, and '80s. Come early and Rick will walk you through the steps!

  • Sept. 28, 3-7 pm, Marketplace Plaza at 7175 12th Street NW

Festivals & Happy Hours

October 10th: Our final Happy Hour of the season is a great opportunity to listen to your favorite local DC tunes, from the unmistakable bounce of GoGo legends like Chuck Brown and Rare Essence to the smooth soul of Marvin Gaye and the edgy punk of the 9:30 Club era. This event pays tribute to the rich and diverse musical heritage of DC

  • Oct. 10, 5:30-7:30pm, Marketplace Plaza, 7175 12th Street NW.

October 19, 12-5 pm: Mark your calendars for Vintage & Vinyl festival at the Marketplace Plaza.

November 15, 12-5 pm: the Holiday Market at the Marketplace Plaza.

Want to know more? Visit theparksdc.com for full details on each event or follow us on Instagram @TheParksDC and Facebook @TheParksDC.