Summer isn’t over yet! The Parks at Walter Reed has a full lineup of family-friendly neighborhood events coming up from August and into November, including free concerts, outdoor fitness classes, dancing, flea markets, community festivals and a massive used book sale.

Jazz in The Parks — August 22 & September 26
One of the neighborhood’s most popular summer traditions returns on Friday, August 22nd, when Jazz in The Parks welcomes Gracie Jay to the Great Lawn.

The free concert begins at 5pm with a children’s performance by Marsha of Marsha and the Positrons, followed by Gracie Jay at 6pm. Bring blankets, lawn chairs and food for a picnic — or pick up food and beverages from on-site vendors.

The final concert of the season takes place September 26th, featuring Langston Hughes II, with family entertainer The Great Zucchini opening the evening.

Browse Thousands of Used Books — August 22
Earlier in the day on August 22nd, nonprofit Turning the Page will host a Carpe Librum Bookstore Pop-Up on the Marketplace Plaza from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy browsing thousands of gently used books, CDs, DVDs and vinyl records, with every item priced at $7 or less. Proceeds support Turning the Page’s literacy and family engagement programs for DC Public Schools.

Happy Hour Gets a Do-Over — August 28
After being postponed because of wildfire smoke, the popular Happy Hour: ’80s + Motown Hits has been rescheduled for Friday, August 28th, from 5:30-7:30pm. Enjoy classic Motown, ’80s favorites, dancing, drinks and plenty of food options from nearby businesses including Whole Foods Market, Cantina Paraíso, The Charmery and Starbucks.

Fun Finds at the Flea Market — August 30
The Parks Flea Market continues August 30th (and the last Sunday of each month through November). Stop by the Marketplace Plaza from 11am to 4pm for dozens of creative vendors selling all-gender clothing, accessories, furniture, rugs and home goods. It’s time for treasure hunting!

Art All Night Comes to Walter Reed — September 12
On Saturday, September 12th, Upper Georgia Avenue Main Street brings Art All Night to The Parks with activities from 12 to 5pm, featuring family-friendly activities, local artists, live music, dancing and other entertainment as part of DC’s citywide arts celebration.

Explore Walter Reed’s History — September 12
Also on September 12th, Washington Walks will bring one of its popular WalkingTown DC tours to The Parks at Walter Reed. The two-hour guided walk explores the site’s transformation from the historic Walter Reed Army Medical Center into today’s mixed-use neighborhood. A discounted registration rate is available for neighborhood residents.

Dance the Afternoons Away — August 16 & 30, September 13 & 27, October 11
Hand dancing returns throughout the fall with DJ Rick G, who has been teaching and hosting dance events in the Washington area for years. Dates include August 16th and 30th, September 13th and 27th and October 11th, 2–6 pm. Beginners are welcome, and early arrivals can learn the basic steps before the music gets underway.

Bike Across DC with WABA — September 26
Cyclists can make plans for Saturday, September 26th, when The Parks serves as an official pit stop for the Washington Area Bicyclist Association’s (WABA) 50 States Ride. This annual event takes riders through every corner of the District, with route options ranging from shorter neighborhood rides to the signature 54-mile challenge. Hundreds of cyclists are expected to stop at The Parks during the day before continuing on to the ride’s after-party.

Get Your Fit On! Outdoor Fitness Continues
The Parks’ outdoor fitness series also continues through the season:

Yoga with Yoga Heights takes place Thursdays from 6–7pm and Sundays from 9–10am through late September.
Qigong classes are offered on Saturday mornings through August 22nd on a donation basis.
Zumba with One Rule Dance returns beginning September 13th, bringing Latin-inspired workouts to the Marketplace Plaza on Sunday mornings.

Most classes are beginner-friendly and open to all ages.

Most of these events are free and open to the public. The Great Lawn is located at 1301 Main Drive NW, while the Marketplace Plaza is located at 7175 12th Street NW. Parking is available in the Marketplace Garage on Dahlia Street, 1155 Dahlia Street NW.

Visit the The Parks at Walter Reed website for even more details!

Live music, dancing, fitness, and a giant book sale: The Parks at Walter Reed

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