Labor Day, a date we Americans equivocate with the traditional end of summer, is fast approaching. Squeeze out as much enjoyment as possible and take part in the wide variety of area events and activities taking place on or near the Labor Day holiday weekend. Many events are family friendly, suitable for couples, or perfect for a girl’s day out.

Head to the Market

Stock up on fresh produce while it’s still in season at the Freshfarm Dupont Circle Market on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Bring an appetite and savor the variety of samples from wood-fired pizza to freshly baked pastries.

Bike, Boat, or Both?

There’s nothing like a beautiful day spent along the Potomac in the historic Georgetown area. Several vendors rent paddleboards and kayaks by the day or the hour. Want to stay dry instead? Enjoy the C&O bike path bike with your own wheels or a rented bike.


Catch up on Your Summer Reading

Once again, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center hosts this celebration of books on September 2, 2017. A wide range of authors will speak on a variety of topics and will be happy to answer questions about their writing too. This free festival features writers suited to parents and children, so bring along the whole family.

Let’s go to the Fair

The Maryland State Fair 2017 will take place this year from August 24 to September 4. Old fashion fun for everyone, the state far continues to be the end-of-summer one-stop entertainment mecca. From rides, animals, home and garden exhibits, to a wide array of food, it’s easy to see why the state fair organizers call the event “unFairgettable.”

Get Festive

On weekends from August 26 to October 22, 2017 you can tap into your inner Lord and Lady and visit the land of ye olden days. Now in its 41st year the Maryland Renaissance Festival is a truly unique experience takes place in Crownsville close to Annapolis.

Celebrate the Mighty Crab

If you haven’t been to the National Hard Crab Derby & Fair, mark your calendar for August 31 to September 3, 2017 and make plans to attend! All things crab will be on display like crab races, crab picking, and crab cooking. Not to mention, games, rides, and fireworks.

Hot Rods and Cool Fun

Enjoy all the vroom-vroom action you can handle at The Western Maryland Street Rod Roundup on September 1 to 3, 2017. Drive out to the Allegany County Fairgrounds for food, dancing, and a variety of vintage vehicles.

Head to the Island

Deal Island Skipjack Races & Island Festival is chock full of activities for the whole family. Take part in 5k walk/run or a fun bike race and then enjoy a parade or arts and crafts while feasting on a variety of local food. Mark your calendar for September 2 to 4, 2017.

Tap into Humor

Who doesn’t need a good laugh? Check out the Baltimore Comedy Festival on September 1 to 5, 2017. This first annual event will offer a variety of comedy showcases, art, discussions and more.

Play Outside

Drag your kids away from the TV and smart phones and take part in the Get Into Nature Weekend on September 2 to 4, 2017. Go alone and explore the scenic side of Fort Frederick State Park or join in on the staff-led outdoor nature and recreation activities.