7 things to do in the capital region during a sweltering Fourth of July weekend

It’s going to be a hot one this July Fourth weekend. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.

With temperatures expected to surpass 100 degrees and extreme heat warnings in effect in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area, officials are advising people to use caution outdoors.

Although there are plenty of fireworks events planned in and around Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, you don’t have to — and perhaps should not — spend the whole weekend outside.

For those looking to spend more time in the AC, here’s what to do this weekend in the capital region.

A family ‘Zootopia 2’ screening

Thursday, 2-3:30 p.m.

The Gaithersburg Library is hosting families for an afternoon of snacks, movie bingo and a viewing of Disney’s 2025 animated hit.

Entry is free; parents or caregivers must accompany children under 8.

A Tony Award-winning musical

Thursday, 7:30 p.m., running through Aug. 23

The Olney Theatre Center is opening its next musical: “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.” The show, which won four Tonys, including Best Musical, in 2014, is a satirical comedy about a man who discovers his late mother was related to an extremely wealthy aristocratic family. But, as eighth in line to the title of Earl of Highhurst, he must set out on a murder spree in hopes of inheriting the family fortune.

Tickets range from $37-$106.

Story time for preschoolers

Friday, 10:15-10:45 a.m.

The Bowie Library invites preschoolers and their parents or caretakers to a morning of stories, songs and creative play.

Registration is free.

A free movie screening

Friday, 11:45 a.m.

As part of AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center’s tribute series to the late Rob Reiner, the Silver Spring movie theater is hosting a free community screening of the 1995 political romantic comedy “The American President.” The film follows Michael Douglas as a widowed president who falls in love with a D.C. lobbyist (Annette Bening).

Tickets are free but don’t guarantee admission. AFI suggests arriving early to secure seating.

A new art exhibit’s opening reception

Friday, 6 p.m.

Artist Joy Nutt debuts “Common Thread,” a new exhibit at Glen Echo Park’s Park View Gallery that showcases paintings designed to look like quilts, inspired by Trinidadian quilt and West African textile patterns. An opening reception will be held during Glen Echo’s weekly Art Walk in the Park on Friday night, and the exhibit will run through Aug. 1.

Free; registration is preferred but not required.

DeRay Davis comedy show

Friday, 8 p.m.

Hot off an appearance at the BET Awards this week, comedian and actor DeRay Davis is heading to MGM National Harbor for an evening of standup comedy. “It’s Fourth of July weekend: I’m the fireworks, baby,” Davis said in a teaser video.

Tickets run from $56-$119.

An exhibit all about freedom

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

The Laurel Historical Society and Museum invites locals to an exhibit that looks back on how the area has marked America’s independence milestones in years past and reflects on other ways the community celebrates freedom and liberty. This includes Emancipation Day, Juneteenth, Laurel Pride and Hispanic Heritage Month.

Entry is free.