The options for family fun this weekend span the activity spectrum. Here’s a round-up of what’s going on, from Earth Day and the bard’s birthday to dancing with a giant mouse and catching small fish.
Earth Day
If I had to pick a headlining event for the weekend, it would easily be Earth Day. The 40th anniversary of the planet’s big day is being celebrated with several events in the area, The Climate Rally at the National Mall on Sunday being the main one. On Saturday morning, the National Zoo welcomes volunteers to help clean up the grounds. Later on, the city of Alexandria is throwing its own Earth Day celebration at Ben Brenman Park. I posted about all of these events earlier this week—check it out for times and details.
Shakespeare’s Birthday Open House
If Shakespeare were alive he’d be pretty darn old. The Folger Shakespeare Library is celebrating the bard’s 446th birthday with an Open House on Sunday afternoon. In true Renaissance fashion, there will be song and dance, jesters and jugglers, and stage combat (workshops, methinks). Especially for children will be fortune telling, quill writing, arts & crafts, and a giant birthday cake. The event is free and will take place rain or shine. The Library is located at 201 East Capitol Street SE.
Angelina Ballerina Open House
The American Dance Institue is celebrating National Dance Week with an Open House themed around the storybook mouse heroine, Angelina Ballerina. Young dancers are invited to an afternoon of dance performances, crafts, a ballet “petting zoo,” and a chance to meet Angelina Ballerina. Yesterday’s post has full details about the event.
2010 Family and Youth Casting Call
Head to Fletcher’s Boathouse for a day of fishing in the C&O Canal. The American Fly Fishing Trade Association and the National Park Service are hosting a day of fishing and outdoor fun. Instruction and gear will be provided for kids young and old to catch a fish. Activities aren’t limited to casting a line—guests can learn to test water quality, do some fish art, jin a scavenger hunt, and go for their Junior Ranger Badge.
Oceans
If your kids like to watch Discovery Channel shows like “Life” and “Planet Earth,” they will likely enjoy “Oceans,” opening in theaters today. The nature documentary journeys into the depths of the oceans and explores the fascinating marine life that inhabit it. Reviews thus far are mixed, but keep in mind they are coming from adults who expect a decent storyline along with amazing cinematography. Kids will probably be captivated on the imagery alone.
