Home Rule Music Festival: Fall Edition

DC Music, a Kids Zone and a Park in NoMa

The Home Rule Music Festival is back this Saturday for a fall edition at Alethia Tanner Park in NoMa, running noon to 9pm. It's a free celebration of DC music, and the day opens with a Youth Showcase on the main stage before the local bands take over.

For families, the draw is the Kids Zone, which gives the little ones something to do while you catch a set. Entry is free. The organizers ask people to register on Eventbrite, but it's optional, and there's a small number of paid VIP tickets if you want them. Bring chairs or a blanket. It's rain or shine, pets stay home, and outside alcohol isn't allowed.

With little kids I'd plan on the afternoon and head out before it gets late, since the music runs all the way to 9. Bring ear protection for anyone small, because a main stage is a main stage. And if you went to the June edition up at Walter Reed, this one is closer in and easy to reach by Metro.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Register anyway. It's optional and free, and it helps the organizers plan.
• ✓Bring your own seats. Chairs and blankets are allowed, and grass fills up.
• ✓Come for the afternoon. That's the easy window with kids. The music runs to 9.
• ✓Pack ear protection. Little ears near a main stage need it.
• ✓Leave the dog home. No pets at this one.