With summer break around the corner, WCHS students are anxiously awaiting their much needed break after a year of hard work. They are ready to swap their notes, tests and homework for a nice pair of shades and some sunscreen. However, after about a week or two of freedom, students begin to get bored and wonder what to do with this time. Students do not need to look any further because there are loads of events and activities taking place right here in the community. With everything from live music, to festivals and farmers markets, every student is bound to find something they love.
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair: Aug. 9-17
The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair is an absolute staple to locals. This fair has it all, thrilling rides and fair games, farm animals at Old MacDonald’s Barn, competitions, live entertainment and local vendors. There is an abundance of activities to take part in at the fair and it is an exciting way to spend a summer day with friends.
SummerFest: June 29
Students can spend a day at Bohrer Park listening to live music, trying the foods from many different food trucks, participating in family friendly activities as well as viewing an extravagant firework show. After the firework display and a day of fun activities, students can crack some glow sticks and stay for the SummerGlo After Party. The festival celebrates America’s independence and admission is free.
Silver Spring International Food & Craft Festival: July 14
For those who enjoy learning about new cultures and trying new foods is of interest, this event is an excellent choice. Students will enjoy listening to international music while visiting the booths of various cultures. The festival features artisans, small businesses and cooks from all over the world. The festival will also host many cultural performers. This exciting but educational festival held at Veterans Plaza is sure to be a fun way to spend a boring Sunday in mid July.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day Gala: Sept. 8
Students can come meet dozens of animals, tour the beautiful farm of Dream Catcher Meadows and participate in a meet and greet with county and state executives all while learning about an important issue in society. The gala is hosted by successful child psychiatrist and author Dr. Susan Rich. Rich is the founder of her nonprofit, 7th Generation Foundation and the owner of Dream Catch Meadows. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a big issue in America and is one of the main causes of neurodevelopmental disorders. The extent of FAS is not known by most people and Rich plans to change this. For students interested in this issue, Dream Catcher Meadows has volunteer and intern opportunities all summer long to help out around the animal sanctuary as well as participate in community outreach.
Caribbean-American Heritage Food, Music and Arts Festival: June 9
Students will have the opportunity to learn about and experience Caribbean culture at Veterans Plaza this summer. The festival includes an international food court, dancing, crafting booths, performances that highlight various aspects of Caribbean culture and a DJ. The DJ will be playing a variety of music popular in Caribbean islands like Soca, Reggae, AfroBeats and Merengue. This free event is a fun opportunity for students to branch out from their own cultures and into the cultures of the Caribbean islands.
Holi DC and Food Festival: June 15
Celebrate the Hindu holiday, Holi, in Potomac this summer. Holi is the festival of color and is celebrated by throwing bright powders. The powder is available to purchase at the event so that everyone can participate in the throwing of the colorful powders. Attendees can also try traditional Indian foods. The festival gives people a chance to have fun with friends and family while learning a little bit about Hindu culture.
Cabin John Village Outdoor Summer Movie Series: June 7, July 5, Aug. 2, Sept. 6, Oct. 4
This free event features five popular movies scattered throughout the summer including “The Little Mermaid,” “Top Gun Maverick,” “Ratatouille,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” The movies start at sunset but students should arrive early for fun activities and live music. This is a great way to spend a Friday evening with friends and family.
While many students believe that Montgomery County is boring and lacks activities for teens in the area, this is certainly not the case. There are tons of activities and events going on every month if students have the correct resources.. These events give a great opportunity for students to have fun and proves that there are fun ways to spend a summer in Montgomery County.
