Star Wars Weekend at Barracks Row

Star Wars Weekend at Barracks Row

Barracks Row on Capitol Hill goes full Star Wars for three days around May the 4th. Saturday is the big one for families — there's a costume contest at Eastern Market Metro Park at 3pm, lightsaber battles with music and lights, and Jedi meet-and-greets along 8th Street. Kids show up in full costume (some parents too), and the vibe is laid-back and nerdy in the best way. The whole strip of restaurants and shops along Barracks Row gets in on the theme.

Friday kicks things off with a Star Wars pop-up bar at Lola's (more for the parents), and Sunday wraps up with a Star Wars Galactic Musical Show. There's also a screening of A New Hope at the Miracle Theater over the weekend. Most outdoor activities are free — the movie screening and some indoor events may have a small fee. Check the Barracks Row website for the full schedule closer to the date.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Saturday is the must-do day: The costume contest and lightsaber battles are Saturday afternoon. If you can only make one day, pick this one.
• ✓Costumes are encouraged, not required: Your kid doesn't need a $200 Mandalorian outfit. A Jedi robe or a Star Wars t-shirt is plenty. That said, some families go all out, and kids love seeing the elaborate costumes.
• ✓Bring a lightsaber toy: Kids with lightsabers have more fun at the lightsaber battle. Dollar store ones work fine.
• ✓Eat on Barracks Row: The restaurants along 8th Street are solid — lots of family-friendly options. Some do Star Wars specials for the weekend.
• ✓Eastern Market is open Saturday morning: If you arrive early, browse the weekend market before the Star Wars activities start. Fresh produce, crafts, and food stalls.
• ✓The lightsaber battle gets crowded: Arrive 15-20 minutes early for a good viewing spot. Shorter kids may need a lift to see over the crowd.