Whether you seek events that honor those who have served and sacrificed for our nation, are ready to get your summer started, or just want to enjoy some quality time with the kids over the holiday weekend, these suggestions for family recreation should have you covered. Happy Weekend!
National Memorial Day Concert – Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2011 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday, May 29 from 8 – 9:30pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna are hosting the event, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the U.S. Gates open at 5pm, admission is free. If you’re planning to go, this FAQ page on the concert is worth a read.
National Memorial Day Parade – The annual National Memorial Day Parade celebrates and honors American veterans with a grand procession through the city. On Monday, May 30, the procession of military units and vehicles, marching bands, flag teams, and hundreds of veterans will travel down Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets. The parade begins at 2pm. Watch from the sidewalk for free.
Joys of Summer – Just posted yesterday, this list of activities exclusive to summer will prove useful as soon as, well, now. Jazz in the Garden kicks off this evening, The Yards Park presents Friday music shows along with special activities for kids, and…wait for it…DC public outdoor pools open this weekend! For complete info on all of these summer pursuits and more, click here.
Sunset Celebration at Mount Vernon – Visit Mount Vernon after the daytime crowds have departed this Friday through Sunday from 6-9pm. Guests can take evening tours of the Mansion, relax and enjoy wine and desserts available for purchase, and delight in 18th-century music, dancing, games, and wagon rides. Stroll the lantern-lit grounds and immerse yourself in the 18th century as the sun sets on the plantation and costumed residents like the charming Lady Washington and her granddaughter Nelly interact with visitors. This family-friendly event celebrates the beginning of summer on the plantation. Admission is $18/adults, $12/ages 6-11, free for children 5 and under.
Memorials on the Mall – Tributes to those who have served our country will take place at the many memorials and monuments on the National Mall throughout the weekend. Times vary, but you can look for schedules on the National Park Service website. The Mall is guaranteed to be crowded, so plan accordingly.
Great Country Farm Strawberry Jubilee – The largest U-pick strawberry festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 5pm rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contest, tart toss, strawberry princess, KidzArt, great food, live music, and Strawberry wine-tasting with Bluemont Vineyard. That should be enough to keep the family entertained for the day. Admission is $10.
Delphane Strawberry Festival – Get your summer off to a “berry” good start at the 18th annual festival celebrating the spirit of the region. Head to Sky Meadows State Park on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 5pm rain or shine for hay rides, live music, a petting zoo, pony rides, crafts, field games, and of course, strawberries will make it a fun day for everyone. Admission is $20 per car at the gate.
Reap the Fruits – A recent email from Homestead said their strawberry season is in full swing, and the rest of the area farms are right there with them. You can get in on the pick-your-own action; this post has all the info you need to get started.
The Potomac by Taxi – Make your way from Old Town Alexandria to the National Harbor (or vice versa) on the river. Water taxis ferry between the two destinations several times throughout the day for a mini-adventure on the water and a fun time exploring on land. This post has all the info you need to plan your river crossing.
Show Time – “A Year with Frog and Toad” is delighting audiences at Adventure Theatre—read the recent KFDC review. And for more children’s entertainment in the area, check out this post about what’s on local stages this season.
The Great Outdoors – If you and the kids want to take a hike, explore a garden, or check on new grounds for play, this list has plenty of ideas for enjoying a beautiful day outdoors with the kids.
Thank you! We went to the Mt. Vernon thing tonight and had a fantastic time!