1. Enjoy an evening Under the Stars at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial this Friday! The Trust for the National Mall along with several local astronomical organizations are hosting cosmic-related activities, including guided telescopic observations and star gazing, in celebration of the advances in space exploration made under Eisenhower’s presidential administration. The event takes place 7:30-9:30pm, and admission is free — RSVP here. The Memorial is located at 540 Independence Ave SW, across Indie Ave from the National Mall.
2. Pickleball is returning to the National Mall! For the second time, pickleball courts will be constructed on the JFK Hockey Fields, adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, for a three-day event to showcase how the sport fosters healthy living and intergenerational play. From September 27-29, there will be exhibition matches and local league tourneys as well as opportunities for the public to play (you can also just go to spectate). Registration will open September 18 at 12pm, and you can sign up here now to learn more about court reservations, the events schedule, and special guests.
3. In last week’s Five Things, I mentioned a great “hike & hang” we did at Manassas National Battlefield Park and The Winery at LaGrange. I just shared more details about it along with another fantastic hike/hang combo, including a “secret spot,” over on District Mix. (And in case you’re not aware, that’s another blog I started a year and a half ago that covers more general content, not just things to do with kids in DC — you can read about the why & what behind it here.)
4. Groupon has some good deals on climbing sessions at ClimbZone in Laurel. Snag them quickly, because there’s an extra promo that ends tomorrow! Read about the indoor climbing spot in this KFDC post. And find even more deals on family fun around the DC area here.
5. A round-up of DC area places to watch the debate tonight from Washingtonian. And if you’re watching at home, add some fun and games to your viewing.









