Category Archives: Coronavirus

April 30, 2021 · 8:34 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 30 – May 2

The Nats are back home this weekend

 

Happy Weekend!

Back pocket posts loaded with ideas for ongoing DC fun:
* Spring Things to Get Excited About
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* On the Water
* Bike Rides

Nats vs. Marlins
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday – Sunday
Admission: Tickets start at $14
Single game tickets are now available to everyone, so you can return to the ballpark to root for the home team! (And you can do it safely — we know from experience at a recent game.) The Nats are hosting the Marlins all weekend, with an evening game on Friday and afternoon match-ups on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are sold in socially distance pods of one to six tickets.  Be sure to take a look at the Welcome Home page, so you know what to expect. I recommend bringing kiddos only if they’re truly baseballs fans. There is no playground for antsy kids, and getting ballpark treats is a little less fun and convenient with the new mobile ordering system. But for those who are into the game, it sure is great to be there again!

Dentzel Carousel Opening Day
Where: Glen Echo Park | Glen Echo, MD
When: Saturday, 12-6pm & Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $5 for a 4-hour time slot
The beloved Denzel Carousel at Glen Echo Park reopens on Saturday! Go for a spin on this local treasure that was installed at the park in 1921. You can reserve tickets in advance or purchase there (I recommend getting them ahead as they are limited). The $5 fee gets you unlimited rides during your time slot. Plan for some time on the playground, too, and bring along a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables in the . Read more about what to expect on the website.

Revisit the 80s at the Drive-In
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
Catch a classic 80s flick from the comfort of your car.  The Breakfast Club is the featured film on the big outdoor screen at the Alexandria Drive-In this week — probably one for tweens and older.  Enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Lincoln’s Bike Ride
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: $50
Join President Lincoln’s Cottage and the DC Cycling Concierge as they recreate Lincoln’s three-mile commute by bike from his Cottage in Petworth to the White House. The day will start with an introduction at President Lincoln’s Cottage (140 Rock Creek Church Road), followed by a guided cycling tour, retracing Lincoln’s commute. The tour will stop at places of note for bits of history and end at the White House. [Note: This sounds like a lot of riding through the city — parents are the best judges of whether their kids are up for it.]

Arlington Scavenger Hunt, By Bike
Where: Around Arlington, VA
When: Friday – Monday
Admission: $35/adult, $15/age 8-17, free/7 & under
Join Phoenix Bikes for a unique way to explore Arlington and sample some community treasures. This socially distanced bike ride will take you on a delightful adventure as you stop at locally owned eateries. Using an online event site, you will be guided to each restaurant location to gather clues to win prizes, learn little-known facts about local shops, and taste delicious treats along the way. The ride is flexible and social-distance-friendly, and it can be done alone or with family, over an afternoon or throughout the weekend.

Blooming Azaleas
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 8am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The azalea bloom at the National Arboretum is very well known among flower enthusiasts, attracting visitors from all over every year. And for good reason: It’s absolutely gorgeous! Even more, the Arb is a great place to spend a day with the family, with plenty of space to spread out with something to enjoy in every area.  Go here for scenes from the bloom, info for checking it out, and more link to tips for exploring the whole place. And FYI:  The Arb has been limiting vehicle traffic for crowd control, so be aware there could be a wait to get in.

Gardening for Wildlife
Where: Locust Grove Nature Center | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
The Nature Center reopens with this event that will be both in-person and virtual. Through demonstrations, workshops, and tours of native plant gardens, learn how to be a better neighbor to birds, butterflies, and bees with what you plant in your own garden.

Pop-Up Consignment Shop
Where: 2456 Tunlaw Road NW | Glover Park, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
PicklesDC is hosting a patio pop-up consignment shop on Saturday. Shop quality brands in excellent condition — children’s clothing, shoes, and toys (size newborn – 12 years). It’s a good chance to get your kids set up with warm weather wear and gear!

May Day Urban Market
Where: The Loop | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the start of May with a one-day urban market and street fest. The Loop, a coworking community and wellness hub, is gathering local artisans for a collective pop-up shop and more festivities in their courtyardat 215 N Payne St. Music, food, and drinks will be on deck all day. Stroll through the vendor offerings and enjoy fare from food trucks and other eateries.

Over the Rainbow & Beyond
Where: Watkins Regional Park
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Here’s an old KFDC fave that’s finally (almost) fully back in action and a great place to spend a day enjoying loads of free, fun activities: Watkins Regional Park!  Kiddos will love frolicking on the adorable Wizard of Oz themed playground. Old Maryland Farm, with animals to visit, is open (though capacity is limited, so there could be a wait). The Nature Center is also welcoming visitors by reservation (go here to book yours), and you can also hike some short trails nearby. Park hours are dawn to dusk, 11am – 4pm at the Nature Center and Old Maryland Farm. Admission to all of it is free.

(Geo)Cache in on Fun
Where: Around the Area
When: Anytime
Admission: Free
Take kids on a “treasure” hunt and have a little adventure along the way. Geocaching is a perfect way to be active and enjoy a day outdoors. Whether you search in the city or seek out a destination that requires a hike in the woods, locating the hidden cache will be a thrill for everyone. See this post about our first foray into the pursuit a few years back.

Go Disc Golfin’
Where: Courses around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Hit the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a nice family day outdoors. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses, many of them set up in scenic places, are lovely this time of year. This post has info about one in College Park, and there are also great courses at Patapsco Valey State Park in MD,  Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA,  Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, MD, Burke Lake Park in Burke, VA.

Around the World Virtual Family Scavenger Hunt
Where: Watson Adventures Online
When: Saturday, 4-5:30pm
Admission: $19
Just because you can’t travel widely doesn’t mean your family still can’t go around the world! This global virtual adventure will send you off to explore the world’s best museums and historic locations via links to eye-popping websites. Your challenge: follow our clues, find amazing objects, and answer tricky questions about them. Stops along the way include a 360-degree view of the ancient streets of Pompeii, Italy, prehistoric cave paintings in France, a swim around the Great Barrier Reef and a live panda cam in China, just to name a few.

City Nature Challenge
Where: Around DC
When: Through May 3 (Part 2 May 4-9)
Admission: Free
The DC Department of Parks & Rec has teamed up with Capital Nature and the Nature Conservancy in Maryland/DC to document the biodiversity of the District — and residents of all ages are invited to join them. Nature and animal enthusiasts young and old can help them look for signs of urban wildlife in local parks, waterways, backyards, and even front stoops. All you need is to participate is a smart phone and a sharp eye. Sign up by downloading the iNaturalist app. Once you have it, follow a simple three step process to Find, Photograph, and Share your results!

Ahoy, Matey!
Where: Inner Harbor | Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $13/teen, $7/youth
Historic Ships of Baltimore just started welcoming visitors again on the USS Constellation and USS Torsk. Touring the vessels moored at the Inner Harbor is a fascinating experience for all ages. Be sure to check the safety guidelines before you go, and read about one of our past visits there in this post.

More Charm City Fun, Hon
Where: Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Enjoy even more fun in our sister city, just 45 minutes up I-95. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. Play the day away at Port Discovery. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art around at the American Visionary Art Museum. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry.  All of these places require advance reservations., so be sure to book ahead!

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* A bunch of beloved places are reopening around DC in May, and there’s a new KFDC guide with details on visiting and recs for what to see and do.
* Great news: DC DPR announced that pools and splash parks will reopen Memorial Day weekend! (PS: The annual KFDC Summer Guide with more info will also be back again soon after a 2020 hiatus!)
* If you’re vaxed/comfortable doing things indoors and want to plan a fun date night, The Hamilton is presenting live shows once again as well as dinner and a movie nights.
* Levi and I just celebrated out 20th(!) anni with an incredible dinner last weekend at Sushi Nakazawa — I highly recommend for a very special occasion, one of our best meals ever. (We also celebrated on the actual day with our two favorite peops who weren’t yet around for the wedding.)
* Animals taking selfies
* Vaccine Side Effects, or…? 😂

 

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Filed under 2021, All ages, Coronavirus, COVID-19, DC, Maryland, Spring, Virginia, Weekend

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April 28, 2021 · 11:36 am

The KFDC Guide to Reopenings Around DC this May

Lay back, look up, and enjoy Renwick 1.8

 

Spring is always a time of renewal, and May is about to bring even more of it with a bunch of reopenings around DC.  Several Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, and a few more beloved places will be welcoming visitors again.  All of them will have extra safety measures, including required advance timed-entry tickets.  Here’s a quick guide to where you can look forward to going, with both logistics for visiting and some recommendations for what to see and do while you’re there.  Happy Returns!

 

Get a close look at Discovery (photo credit: KFDC Contributor Emily Moise)

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Air & Space)
Where: 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway | Chantilly, VA
When: Starting May 5, Daily, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free timed-entry passes (parking is $15)
Covid Safety
The Chantilly arm of the National Air & Space Museum showcases two hangars full of fascinating artifacts of flight. You can see all kinds of air and space crafts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, a Concorde jet, and even a new Star Wars X-Wing Starfighter. For safety reasons, flight simulators, the IMAX theater, and Observation Tower will not be accessible. But as noted in this post about places to play indoors, the museum is a relatively low-risk space in Covid times with its spacious facility and timed-entry passes. Little kids should be well-attended, but have the flexibility to roam and, on a slow day, maybe even run circles around the massive installations.
KFDC Tip:  The museum is a hike from DC, so make the most of your time out that way and plan on a meal, too.  Check out Yelp’s list of nearby restaurants, several of them offering outdoor dining.

 

The box where Lincoln was shot as he watch a performance of ‘My American Cousin’

Ford’s Theatre
Where: 511 10th Street NW | Downtown DC
When: Starting May 12, Wednesday – Sunday
Admission: $3 timed-entry tickets
The historic theatre and its museum are opening again for self-guided visits with a modified schedule. The site of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination is a fascinating site to explore — both seeing where it took place and learning more about Lincoln’s presidency and events of that time through museum exhibits. Visitors will be able to walk through the theatre’s balcony level and Presidential Box as well as tour the museum. And National Park Service rangers will be on hand to answer questions and explain the events surrounding Lincoln’s assassination. As I noted in this KFDC write-up, kids of all ages can go, but about ages 8 and up would get the most out of it. Tickets will be available each Friday for the following Wednesday – Sunday, and timed entry will be on the hour 10am – 12pm, and from 2-4pm (closed during the 1pm hour for cleaning).
KFDC Tip: The theatre isn’t staging performances again yet, but you can watch/listen to virtual play readings on the website.

A Statue of the famous 1968 Olympics Black Power salute at the NMAAHC

National Museum of African American History & Culture
Where: 1400 Constitution Avenue NW | WDC
When: Starting May 14, Wednesday-Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free with timed-entry passes
Covid Safety
The NMAAHC is easily one of the most remarkable, important, and powerful attractions to open in DC in recent years. The museum is huge and obviously covers some heavy subject matter, so be sure to the read the KFDC Guide to Visiting the National Museum of African American History & Culture with Kids before you go. There are some interactive elements that I assume will not be accessible, but the museum has three levels full of hands-off exhibits, too.  While I think it’s best for kids in about 3rd grade and up, there are a few elements for younger ages, too.
KFDC Tips: The museum has some great online resources for talking about race.  When you visit, plan for some time to explore the National Mall, too — the NMAAHC is located right across the street from the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial , Tidal Basin, and Constitution Gardens are also close by.

 

See some old friends at the National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum
Where: 8th and G Streets, NW | WDC
When: Starting May 14, Wednesday-Sunday, 11:30am – 7pm
Admission: Free with timed-entry passes
Covid Safety
Since the National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum are physically connected, a pass for one gets you into both.  All of the sections in both museums are great to explore, but I’ve found kids’ favorites in the Portrait Gallery are America’s Presidents (especially Obama) and the Hall of Champions on the third floor featuring famous athletes. Every Eye Is Upon Me: First Ladies of the United States opened right before the museum shut down in November and is only running through May 23, so get tickets to go soon if you hope to see it.  In the American Art Museum, we often head up to the third floor where there are large contemporary paintings in bold colors and interesting, even quirky sculptures and installations. Read more about the National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museums here and here, but note that programming and special events are not happening right now.
KFDC Tips: The Alexander von Humboldt exhibit, on view until July 11, includes a mastodon skeleton, a little something to tide over dino loving kids until they can visit the Natural History Museum again!  And the Kogod Courtyard connecting the museums will also be accessible, and the stunning space is a must-stop on any visit to the museums.

 

Ai No Keshiki – Indigo Views, part of Forces of Nature at the Renwick

Renwick Gallery
Where: 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., NW | WDC
When: Starting May 14, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free with timed-entry passes
Covid Safety
Part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Renwick showcases contemporary American craft, often through exhibitions featuring awesome large-scale works. Maybe you saw the fantastic Wonder and No Spectators: The Art Burning Man in recent years. We caught the current Forces of Nature right before the gallery closed last fall, and it’s reminiscent of those with art installations that are interesting, beautiful, even a bit whimsical. It’s on view until August 15, and I recommend going to see it.
KFDC Tip: While you’re in the area, visit Black Live Matters Plaza located just across Lafayette Square from the Renwick on 16th Street between I & K Streets.

 

(TikTok) dancing amid the Degas sculptures at the National Gallery of Art

National Gallery of Art
Where: 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., NW | WDC
When: Starting May 14, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free with timed-entry passes
Covid Safety 
It’s not a Smithsonian, but the National Gallery of Art is welcoming visitors again along with the rest of the museums on the National Mall. Only the West Building known for housing works by European masters will be open, and most galleries on both floors will be accessible, with limited exceptions for galleries that do not allow for social distancing. We enjoyed the Degas exhibit back in the fall, and while it’s no longer there, the gallery featuring the artist’s sculptures is great to tour. The wonderful gift shop will be open, so plan on some browsing there, too. And PS: The East Building is coming soon!
KFDC Tip: View even more art outdoors at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (enter on the north side of the National Mall at 7th Street) and grab a snack at the cafe to enjoy a bite al fresco.

 

The Dumbarton Oaks Garden is easily one of the most enchanting places in the city

Dumbarton Oaks Garden
Where: 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., NW | WDC
When: Starting May 15, Tuesday – Sunday, 3-6pm
Admission: $10/adult, $5/child
Tickets: Timed entry passes available soon
Covid Safety
One of the prettiest places in DC (imo…as well as one of my favorite places in general), Dumbarton Oaks is finally reopening its gardens for the first time since its Covid closing last spring. The grounds of the historic estate are so enchanting, with winding brick and stone paths leading to the many areas of the terraced garden, all of them showcasing different, lovely landscapes and hardscapes. Tickets are actually available now for season pass holders (starting at $75 for one person), and timed-entry tickets will be released soon.  Currently, the grounds are only open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday 3-6pm, with a limited number of tickets available every hour.  After May 15, grounds will be open Tuesday – Sunday, 3-6pm.  See more about Dumbarton Oaks  here, here, and here.
KFDC Tip: Before your visit, take kids to play at Montrose Park right next to the gardens, and plan for a snack or meal after.  You have your pick of places to go in Georgetown — we especially like Jaco Juice & Taco Bar on Wisconsin Ave., an easy walk from Dumbarton Oaks.

 

National Archives
Where: 701 Constitution Avenue NW | WDC
When: Starting May 15, SAturday & Sunday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free with timed-entry tickets
Covid Safety
The National Archives Museum will begin to welcome back visitors on weekends. The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom will be available for public viewing. This includes the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and Bill of Rights. The Faulker murals are also notable. All other exhibits and research facilities will be closed.
KFDC Tip: The Archives are just across Pennsylvania Ave. from the Penn Quarter neighborhood, where there are a bevy of family-friendly restaurants.
 

Looking for pandas in trees at the Zoo

National Zoo
Where: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW | WDC
When: Starting May 21, Daily, 8am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Tickets: Timed entry passes available soon
Covid Safety
Because it is outdoors and it houses some of DC’s cutest residents, the Zoo reopening may be the most anticipated one. As in summer and fall of 2020, a limited number of timed entry tickets will be available for each day, and you must reserve them in advance — up to six per person.  If you want to see the new panda cub (which we all do!), free, timed Asia Trail/Panda Passes are required and can be reserved on-site on the day of your visit. Paid parking passes are also available for $30, and must also be purchased in advance. (Note that even FONZ Members still need to reserve timed-entry tickets and purchase parking passes.) You can try looking for metered parking on nearby streets, and the Woodley Park Metro stop on the red line is an easy few blocks walk away. Concessions will be available at some Zoo restaurants and food trucks.
KFDC Tip: The National Zoo is big and requires a lot of walking. If you’re bringing little ones, 1) bring a stroller and 2) check the map ahead of your visit and make a plan of what to see. You may want to save some parts for another outing there.

 

America on the Move is a fun exhibit to view at the American History Museum

National Museum of American History
Where: 1300 Constitution Avenue NW | WDC
When: Starting May 21, Friday-Tuesday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Tickets: Timed entry passes available soon
Covid Safety
When I recommended the American History Museum pre-Covid, I often suggested taking children to America on the Move which features all kinds of modes of transport, galleries with toys and games from our childhoods, First Lady dresses, the Star-Spangled Banner, and more relics from the nation’s past. Girlhood (It’s complicated) opened last fall and is fun and interesting to explore. On the lower level, exhibitions like American Democracy that includes a history of voting in the U.S. and Many Voices, One Nation that highlights how our voices shape our country will be interesting for older kids. Spark!Lab and Wegman’s Wonderplace likely won’t be open, but I’ll update if/when it is.
KFDC Tip: The Enid A. Haupt Garden right across the National Mall behind the Smithsonian Castle is a lovely place to enjoy some outdoor time before or after your visit.

 

A peek at the powerful Americans exhibit at the NMAI

National Museum of the American Indian
Where: 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW | WDC
When: Starting May 21, Wed-Sun, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Tickets: Timed entry passes available soon
Covid Safety
When the museum reopened in the fall, the imagiNATIONS Activity Center, a fantastic space for hands-on explorations of American Indian culture, was not accessible, and that’s likely to be the case this time, too. (Of course, I will keep you updated.). But there is plenty more to enjoy at the NMAI. The Americans exhibit, in particular, illuminates how American Indians are part of the nation’s identity through powerful imagery and compelling displays that illustrate their history. A few more galleries will also be open for touring.  And the museum’s design and architecture alone are worth a visit to see, both inside and out.
KFDC Tip: Something fun for kids (and you): While you’re in the Potomac Atrium, have them look for rainbows of light cast on the walls and floor as sun shines through deliberately placed prisms.

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April 23, 2021 · 7:15 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 23-25

Springtime at the National Arboretum

 

Happy Weekend!

Fast links for all kinds of DC fun:
* Spring Things to Get Excited About
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* On the Water
* Bike Rides

Spring Drive-In Movie Series
Where: The Stack at Buzzard Point | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, 8pm
Admission: $20/car
Pile into the family car to catch a flick in the city! This six-week drive-in series from the Capitol Riverfront BID features movies inspired by post-pandemic goals — traveling, concerts, house parties, Met Galas, and more.  Each film session will be a fun, contact-free experience for all ages at an appropriate social distance. Even more, all funds will be donated to local charities. This weekend’s showing is Moana, and proceeds will benefit Van Ness Elementary School.

Drive-In, in NoVa
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
You can also catch a flick from the comfort of your car in Virginia, an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Mamma Mia will be on the big outdoor screen on Friday night, and Jurassic Park on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Blooming Azaleas
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 8am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The azalea bloom at the National Arboretum is very well known among flower enthusiasts, attracting visitors from all over every year. And for good reason: It’s absolutely gorgeous! Even more, the Arb is a great place to spend a day with the family; even when there are lots of visitors, there is plenty of space to spread out with something to enjoy in every area.  Go here for scenes from the bloom and info for checking it out. [Update: The Arb is limiting visitors for crowd control — this bloom is a popular one! — so be aware there may be a wait to get in.]

Take a Hike
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale
There’s a link above for a round-up of local hikes, but sometimes specific recs are helpful. A few places to hit the trail that will be nice this weekend: Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA (paddling ops, too!); Turkey Run Park in McLean, VA; Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Northeast DC; Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, MD (with a stop at The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after), and Patapsco Valley State Park near Baltimore, MD.

Glow With It
Where: Georgetown, DC
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free
See Georgetown sparkle with modern light art installations. This free outdoor public art experience showcases eight innovative works around the neighborhood. They are visible during the day, but obviously shine more in the evenings. Take the fam to dinner, then go for a stroll to check them all out! Get a glimpse of a past light show here.

Lincoln’s Bike Ride
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: $50
Join President Lincoln’s Cottage and the DC Cycling Concierge as they recreate Lincoln’s three-mile commute by bike from his Cottage in Petworth to the White House. The day will start with an introduction at President Lincoln’s Cottage (140 Rock Creek Church Road), followed by a guided cycling tour, retracing Lincoln’s commute. The tour will stop at places of note for bits of history and end at the White House. [Note: This sounds like a lot of riding through the city — parents are the best judges of whether their kids are up for it. Also, this will be happening again on May 1.]

Play Ball Drive-Thru
Where: Fletcher’s Field | Riverdale, MD
When: Saturday, 12-2pm
Admission: Free
Catch some Nats swag at this event from the Washington Nationals and Price George’s County Parks & Rec. To help encourage and promote youth baseball and softball participation, the Nats and Screech are giving away free plastic bats, balls, and other Nationals swag to young fans. Open to all children between the ages of 4-18, this socially-distant event will allow participants to remain in their cars and have the items passed through their car windows. Face coverings will be required. Fans should register here.  Fletcher’s Field is located at 5200 Kenilworth Ave. in Riverdale, MD.

Farm Fun
Where: Farms around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
You don’t need a holiday or big festival to enjoy fun on some area farms.  Great Country has a whole play area, farm market, and baby goats to visit. Clark’s Elioak delights with its old storybook park installations and mini rides for kids.  And check out a recent post for ways to Bring the Fun Home… from DC Area Farms!

AdMo Art Walk
Where: Adams Morgan, DC
When: Through May 14
Admission: Free
Where many of us spent our 20s partying it up, is now like an art gallery for a few weeks. Walk the streets of Adams Morgan and admire an impressive selection of artworks displayed in various storefronts on a self-guided walking tour. Go here to see the participating businesses that will be showcasing the art and plan your stroll to see it all.

Saturday Morning Live! At The National
Where: The National Theatre Facebook Page
When: Saturday, 9:30am
Admission: Free
The National Theatre is excited to present Gonzo’s Multiverse episode four: Pepe, Pedro, and The Sun. Gonzo’s Multiverse explores the very small, the very large, and everything in between! Viewers will investigate the natural world through music, poetry, art, and some surprising new friends. This programming is best suited for children ages four through ten, but siblings and friends of other ages are always welcome to join the fun!

Hang Out
Where: Hains Point | Southwest DC
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free
Sometimes it’s nice to go someplace where you can just hang out for a few hours (not to mention, this gives me a chance to highlight an old post and cool place). At Hains Point,  you can play, picnic, and enjoy the surrounding scenery where the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers converge.  At East Potomac Park, head all the way down, almost to the tip of the park, to reach the playgrounds. They’re set amid a large grassy area with picnic tables and restrooms right there, too. The spot offers great views of the rivers and airplanes taking off and landing at DCA. You can make a longer day of it in the area and visit the nearby Tidal Basin to explore the Jefferson, Roosevelt, and MLK Memorials.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* What to Do After the Derek Chauvin Verdict
* Help clean up the Anacostia with Green Boats!
* Washingtonian mapped every place to eat and drink by the water in the DC area.
* Real Simple’s recs for the best new books to read in 2021 (so far).
* Not a new book, but I’ve been reading and enjoying Outline by Rachel Cusk.
* All 56 movies nominated for an Oscar this year, ranked.
* Wow.

 

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April 16, 2021 · 7:15 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 16-18

Head to Great Falls for a hike and spectacular scenery — for free!

 

This Weekend Round-Up is somewhat abbreviated as we’re away for Spring Break, but these quick links and listings will lead you to loads of ongoing things to do, seasonal activities, and a few special events.  Happy Weekend!

Find ideas and inspo in these go-to posts:
* Spring Things to Get Excited About
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
National Park Week starts on Saturday, and it’s kicking off with a fee free day, so there’s no entrance fee to national parks that usually charge admission. Take advantage and hit the trail at  Great Falls, Shenandoah, Prince William Forest, Harpers Ferry, or head up to Baltimore to explore Fort McHenry. Find even more parks to visit here.

Root for the Home Team
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $14/ticket
Single game tickets are now available to the public to catch a Nats game in person at the ballpark! That includes this weekend’s series against the Diamondbacks. Tickets will be sold in socially distanced pods of 1 to 6 tickets. Safety measures like assigned entrances, mobile food orders, extra signage, and masks required are in placed for Covid. Let’s go, Nats!

Tulips Galore
Where: Burnside Farm | Nokesville, VA
When: Friday (Saturday & Sunday sold out)
Admission: $20.50/adult, $10.50/child
Experience a bit of Holland in Northern Virginia at Burnside Farms’ annual festival as blooming tulips stretch along acres of fields in an array of colors and varieties. Even more, you can pick your own to bring home. Admission for the event has increased this year, but also includes bouncy fun, a play  area, and five tulips to pick. Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance.  And if you find the entry price steep, know that there are more, great (free) flower blooms on the way —  see what else is coming up around the area.

Drive-In Time
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
Catch a flick from the comfort of your car — an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Trolls will be on the big outdoor screen on Friday night, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Fairy & Gnome Home Festival
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Sunday (timed-entry)
Admission: $7/age 2+
This annual festival at one of the most enchanting places will delight the whole family — and we know from experience. Festivities are scattered throughout the beautiful grounds, creating a charming journey for young (and young at heart) guests. They’ve reconfigured the outdoor event to accommodate social-distancing and low-touch precautions, providing an an experience for families to imagine, create, and explore! Let kiddos dress in their magical finery and bring some chairs or a picnic blanket. Advance, timed-entry tickets are required for admission and “unicorn” rides. Read more about Annmarie Sculpture Garden and get a glimpse in this KFDC post and this one.

NoVa Parking
Where: Several parks in Northern Virginia
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only are many of the locales within the NoVa Parks system great places to go for outdoor recreation, other activities within some of them are now available. Batting cages, mini golf, kayak and canoe rentals, and disc golf are some of them. Find things to do by activity, or check out individual parks and see what they have going on.

Go for a Spin
Where: Cabin John (Bethesda) & Wheaton Regional Park, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $2.50
All aboard! Montgomery Park’s Cabin John Train and Wheaton Train and Carousel are open for the season on weekends. Take kiddos for a spin around the parks on replicas of an 1863 steam locomotive. Or go for whirl on the Carousel (Wheaton only). Plan for time on the playgrounds, too — both offer lots of fun for little ones.  Read more about Cabin John here and Wheaton here.

Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks around Fairfax County, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Fairfax County Park Authority hosts all kinds of events on weekends for guests of all ages. Join a Campfire Friday at Lake Fairfax Park. Create a bird-themed craft at Sully Historic Site.  Take older kids on a nature kayaking adventure. Details and registration for these and more activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

StoryWalk: Rainbow Weaver
Where: Downtown Kensington, MD
When: Starting Saturday through May 15
Admission: Free
The Noyes Library Foundation presents its newest StoryWalk!  Families are invited to read the book Rainbow Weaver by Linda Elovitz Marshall, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri, on posted signs on a self-guided stroll through Capitol View-Homewood Local Park (2929 Edgewood Road, Kensington, MD).  The book focuses on a young girl who wants to weave like her mother and the women of her Guatemalan village. A QR code to scan at the StoryWalk will take users to the Foundation’s website for crafts and printable coloring pages related to the book.

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April 9, 2021 · 7:10 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 9-11

Boating season has begun in the DC area

 

Happy Weekend!

Back-pocket posts full of ideas for local recreation:
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Long Awaited Reopening
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/adult, $7/child, free for members
The National Building Museum reopens on Friday after being closed since even before Covid shut everything down. Visitors will be welcome on weekends, Friday – Sunday, to view the exhibits, browse the gift shop, and marvel at the stunning Great Hall.  Two new exhibitions,  Gun Violence Memorial Project and Justice is Beauty: The Work of MASS Design Group, sound interesting and timely, and a few more ongoing exhibits will be back. A heads-up that the children’s areas — PLAY WORK BUILD and Building Zone — are not yet open.  Also of note:  It’s still free to hang out in the Great Hall; just certain exhibits require tickets.

Victura Park is Popping Back Up
Where: The REACH | Kennedy Center, DC
When: Friday 4-9pm, Saturday & Sunday, 12-9pm
Admission: Free
The weekend wine garden is back at The REACH, the Kennedy Center’s immersive extension. Part of the lovely outdoor area transforms into Victura Park, a family-friendly pop-up wine and beer garden & café, offering snacks and sips that you can enjoy at socially distanced tables or in other areas. Be sure to stroll around the grounds, the large plaza (we’ve seen skates and scooters there), and the sweeping Kennedy Center terrace, where you can also enjoy great Potomac River views.

It’s Glow Time
Where: Around Georgetown, DC
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free
Georgetown Glow, the annual exhibition that usually takes place during the holiday season, was rescheduled for spring. See the neighborhood sparkle with modern light art installations throughout the bustling community. Take the fam to dinner, then go for a stroll to check them all out. Get a glimpse of a past light show here.

Mini Trains & Carousel Opening
Where: Cabin John in Bethesda & Wheaton Regional Park, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $2.50
All aboard! Montgomery Park’s Cabin John Train and Wheaton Train and Carousel are opening for the season. Take kiddos for a spin around the parks on replicas of an 1863 steam locomotive. Or go for whirl on the Carousel (Wheaton only). Plan for time on the playgrounds, too — both offer lots of fun for little ones.  Read more about Cabin John here and Wheaton here.

Fairies in the Garden
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $5 suggested donation
Guaranteed to delight, the annual exhibit of fairy and gnome houses at Annmarie Sculpture Garden begins this weekend.This year more than 100 homes for sprightly creatures will be scattered throughout the grounds. Viewing them as you walk along a trail through the woods is fun for all. Plan for play time in the adorable Fairy Lolly, and stop in the Arts Center for more creative works. Get a glimpse of it all here and here.   PS: The Fairy & Gnome Home Festival is next Sunday, April 18, in case you want to save a visit for then.

Go with the Flow
Where: Waterways around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
Row, row, row your boat or kayak or canoe! Paddle season has started as several places have started offering boat rentals and more open this weekend. Boating in DC has several locations in the District and a few NoVa Parks offer it, too. This post about places to go with the flow has more details.

Bloomaroo
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Through Sunday
Admission: Varies
It’s the last weekend that the Wharf is celebrating the cherry blossoms with Bloomaroo. Enjoy food and drinks specials at many of the restaurants.  Catch Anime Movies, including the newest Sonic the Hedgehog movie. Check out a special mural created by ARTECHOUSE, too. Ride the Wharf Jitney or hop on the Water Taxi to get an up-close look at what’s left of the bloom and more scenic sights of DC. For more about The Wharf, see this KFDC post.

Farm Fun
Where: Farms around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
Easter may be over, but some of the farms that hosted egg hunts are still running and offering lots of fun for families. Great Country has a whole play area, farm market, and baby goats. Clark’s Elioak delights with its old storybook park installations and mini rides for kids. And Butler’s Orchard is even hosting Bunnyland for one more weekend. And check out the recent post for ways to Bring the Fun Home… from DC Area Farms!

Around the World Virtual Family Scavenger Hunt
Where: Watson Adventures | Online
When: Saturday, 4-5:30pm
Admission: $19
Just because you can’t travel widely doesn’t mean your family still can’t go around the world! This global virtual adventure will send you off to explore the world’s best museums and historic locations via links to eye-popping websites. Your challenge: follow our clues, find amazing objects, and answer tricky questions about them. Stops along the way include a 360-degree view of the ancient streets of Pompeii, Italy, prehistoric cave paintings in France, a swim around the Great Barrier Reef and a live panda cam in China, just to name a few.

Shakespeare Family Fest
Where: Shakespeare Theatre Company | Online
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Hear ye! Hear ye! Join the fun in a weekend of free virtual events for the whole family. Explore the magic of theatre with virtual performances of A Mini-Summer Night’s Dream and The Tiny Tempest, a stage blood demonstration, interactive workshops, crafting activities, and more. Meet Shakespeare Theatre Company staff and teaching artists and learn more about Classes for Youth and Teens and Camp Shakespeare. Drop in for a session or spend the whole weekend with them. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Pop-Up Street Theater
Where: Locales around Arlington, VA
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Catch Synetic Theatre’s final pop-up performances of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. They’ll be clowning around and bringing street theater to Arlington parks, as a pair of improv actors make appearances at the Art Wall in Virginia Highlands Park, the Crystal City Water Park, and the Long Bridge Park Esplanade.  Follow @synetictheater on Instagram to see where they are and how long they’ll be there!

Go Fly A Kite
Where: Alethia Tanner Park | NoMa, DC
When: Sunday, 12-3pm
Admission: Free
Wind down the National Cherry Blossom with this sweet giveaway rom the NoMa BID. Stop by Alethia Tanner Park and pick up a free kite kit — and put it together to fly from the large lawn. Plan for some time on the playground and bring along pups to play in the dog park. You can even bring along a picnic and make a day of it! The park is located at 227 Harry Thomas Way NE.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* A group of local middle middle-schoolers have taken their creative fun to the next level and started Glasswing Tie Dye, selling T-shirts with all kinds of cool tie dye designs.
* Washingtonian highlights five fun food events around DC this weekend.
* Just posted this week: Spring Things to Get Excited About Around the DC Area (some of them in this round-up).
* The Yards and Pacers Running are hosting Brunch On the Go, a guided stretch and run along the riverfront, followed by a curated to-go brunch from Yards restaurants Osteria Morini, Shilling Canning Co., and Chloe. It will be offered April 17, April 24, and May 1.
* Is your child practicing the recorder? 😂

 

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