June 26, 2026
Dear Washingtonians,
Summer is in full swing. Thousands of kids started at DPR summer camps this week; in fact, I was joined by some of our participants in the journalism camp at the groundbreaking for the new Crummell Community Center. The camps have been such a hit that DPR added two more camps for tweens this week, and the lottery is still open for Horsepower: horses, riding, and leadership and All That: art, science, journalism, and more.
The Roving Leaders summer movie nights are underway. If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly evening activities, there is a movie happening every Thursday in Yards Park, and outdoor movies happening at rec centers across the city almost every evening.
 Spray parks are now open daily across the city — a great way to help your kids beat the heat in the coming days.
 And on Monday, thousands of teens and young adults will report to their Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program workplaces. If you're welcoming an SYEP participant on Monday, thank you for stepping up to create opportunity for our young people. If you're starting a job on Monday, remember to bring your best every day, work hard and be curious, and make the most of your summer experience!
Have a safe, fun weekend.
Sincerely,
 With all the local and national events happening in DC over the next two weeks, residents and visitors are encouraged to text DC250 to 888-777 to receive real-time updates and alerts from DC Government to your phone.
Back to Top
 This week, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) opened applications for the 2026 Rec for All: Play it Forward Scholarships. DPR will provide up to 40 scholarships, up to $5,000 each, for qualified young adults. This scholarship is open to those who meet the following requirements:
- DC resident
- Attained a high school diploma or equivalent
- Participated in a DPR program
- Enrolled in post-secondary education
Recipients will be selected based on their application strength, career goals, demonstrated financial need, and letters of reference. Applications are due by Friday, July 10, 2026.
Find more details and the application link at RecForAll.com.
Back to Top
 Join DPR for Jazz in the Park, a summer concert series happening every Tuesday and Thursday in July and August at parks around the District. Next week, the series kicks off with a performance at the Deanwood Recreation Center.
Back to Top
 In addition to all the local and national Fourth of July celebrations happening next week, there's also another big attraction coming to Downtown DC: THE PLAYGROUND.
Following the success of The BEACH and FUNHOUSE, the National Building Museum is getting ready to open their latest interactive summer installation. THE PLAYGROUND will transform the historic Great Hall into a monumental, sculptural landscape that reimagines the familiar experience of parks and playgrounds with a delightful twist.
THE PLAYGROUND will be a fun new addition to the #1 park system in the country!
- When: July 3 through August 30
- Where: National Building Museum
- Learn more about the exhibit and get tickets here.
Back to Top |
