Category Archives: DC

Live Entertainment on Local Stages this Spring

So much entertainment coming to the Kennedy Center and more venues around DC!

 

With the new season comes a whole new line-up of shows for young audiences.  Here’s where you can catch live entertainment around the DC area throughout spring. Tickets are available for just about all of them now, so go save your seats!

Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 1-2
Admission: $20

Ten-year-old Belinda loves to tell stories, but when she’s in the basement preparing for a party upstairs, she’ll have to get creative. Using everyday objects like a teapot and doily, Belinda recreates the classic tale of Cinderella. Glass Half Full Theatre from Austin, Texas, presents its award-winning “story within a story” using puppetry, Spanish, and English. Recommended for ages 5+.

This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 2, 2pm & 4pm
Admission: $18

Jacqueline Woodson’s book, This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration, has been set to music by young Black composer Quinn Mason, and will be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra with the author herself as narrator. The story follows three generations of a Black family who moves from the South to Harlem, New York seeking better opportunities and equality, as more than six million African American families did during the Great Migration in the early 1900s through the 70s. As the family moves and grows, they take with them a piece of rope that helps them in normal aspects of life, but really symbolizes their cultural bonds, progress, and hope. Recommended for ages 7+.

The Jungle
Where: Harman Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through April 16
Tickets: $59-135

Welcome to The Jungle where cultures collide and thousands dream of crossing the English Channel to the possibility of freedom. Laughter, tears, allegiances, and prayers are shared by this extraordinary community of refugees caught up in a global crisis beyond their control. Recommended for ages 12+.

Shout Sister Shout
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through May 13
Tickets: (look for discount)

Based on Gayle F. Wald’s book Shout, Sister, Shout!, this new musical tells the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe—one of America’s most influential rock, R&B and gospel crossover singers and guitarists. Ambitious, courageous and uncompromisingly public, Tharpe became a pioneer of the women’s movement for racial and sexual equality and musical legend who redefined the national and international music scene in the 1930s and 40s and beyond. Dive into Cheryl L. West’s spirited, authentic and emotionally charged story about a charismatic music forerunner and the authentic roots of rock-and-roll. Recommended for ages 12+.

The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Tickets: $12-39 

Kameeka is confident that today she will finally beat her rival, Jamara, and become the Hula-Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street in Harlem. But she has to prepare for Miz Adeline’s birthday party, and almost ruins the day. Until Miz Adeline confesses that she’s also got the itch–the hula-hoopin’ itch! Her fingers start snappin’. Her hips start swingin’. Soon everyone’s hips are swinging as the party spills out onto the street.

Sleeping Beauty on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Through April 9
Admission: $15
In the Puppet Co.’s version of Sleeping Beauty, a funny frog storyteller ribbits the tale of offended fairies, silly royalty, and magic spells. Relive this classic fairy tale in this lovely Legacy rod-puppet show. Directed by Elizabeth Dapo. Recommended ages 4+. Run time approximately 45 minutes.

RiverRun Festival
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through April 22
Admission: Varies by event (some free)

This international festival celebrating the world’s rivers is bringing all kinds of performances and events from across the globe to the Kennedy Center. Live entertainment includes concerts, dance performances, a youth orchestra, a play for kids and families, and more.  See the website for the full schedule.

Wake Up, Brother Bear
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Tickets: $12-39

Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in an unforgettable theatre experience. Recommended for ages 1-5.

Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through April 23
Tickets: $76-95

Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning drama Angels in America is one of the great epic American plays of this past century. We meet Louis and Prior and Harper and Joe, two couples whose relationships are on the rocks; the former because of Prior’s AIDS diagnosis and Louis’ inability to cope with illness, and the latter because of Joe’s closeted homosexuality and Harper’s incessant fears and hallucinations. Recommended for teens and older.

Millennium Stage
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Wednesday – Sunday, 6pm
Tickets: Free

The Kennedy Center presents these free performances Wednesday – Sunday at 6pm, and the public is welcome to enjoy them. The acts span the genres — you can see everything from contemporary dance to folk music to film screenings to comedy shows to opera scenes. This is a great series to keep in mind for whenever you’re looking for some free, easy entertainment. Just be sure to reserve tickets in advance!

King Lear
Where: Klein Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 30 – April 16
Tickets: $55-135 (look for discount)

Caught in a carousel of memory, the head of a dysfunctional royal family grapples with power-hungry children and the threat of losing the empire he created. Real and imagined worlds coalesce, creating a political and personal horror that threatens to swallow the mind of the monarch. The incomparable Patrick Page (Hadestown, The Gilded Age) returns to STC as the once-revered king caught in an emotional hurricane ravaging his home, head, and heart.

Jennifer Who is Leaving
Where: Roundhouse Theatre | Bethesda, MD
When: March 30 – May 7
Tickets: $39-81

Nan is working the night shift, fielding periodic calls from her retired husband with questions about reheating dinner and where his car keys are. Jennifer is trying to tune out Joey, her elderly patient who is relishing getting on her last nerve. And Lili is stressing out about her upcoming SATs. Set in a Dunkin Donuts on the side of a Massachusetts highway, Jennifer Who Is Leaving is a familiar and hilarious exploration of the expectations placed on women; the physical, mental, and emotional labor of being a caregiver; and what happens when we reach our breaking point. Recommended for teens and older.

My Fair Lady
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 6-9
Tickets: $45-115 (look for discount)

The Broadway hit My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?

The Washington Ballet: Aurora’s Wedding
Where: Capital One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: April 7-9
Tickets: $48+

Join The Washington Ballet for a 90-minute, family-friendly performance featuring Act III of The Sleeping Beauty. Fans of Puss-in-Boots, Red Riding Hood, Princess Florine, and all the classic characters will be delighted. Plus, TWB will perform Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, the iconic classic ballet for new & seasoned fans alike. Go early for the matinee performances for Family Fun Events that feature photo opportunities with dancers, coloring stations, and more. Use code BEAUTY at purchase for 30% off your tickets.

Once Upon a Moon
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: April 12-14
Tickets: $3-9

Let’s go to the moon! Celebrate the spirit of the Apollo landing in this exciting, interactive show for our youngest audiences. Performers and exquisite puppets spin new and old stories about the moon’s magic, create a “living exhibit” of its phases, and introduce the amazing science that brought us to its surface. You might even get the chance to be a moonwalking astronaut. Recommended for ages 4-7.

Rocknoceros Concert
Where: Jammin Java | Vienna, VA
When: April 15, 11am (doors open at 10am)
Tickets: $10

Rocknoceros is returning to Jammin Java with a new show called “All About the Sprout.” The concert will include classic Rocknoceros songs and new music about seeds, sprouts, and spring. Seating is first some, first served. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Disney’s Aladdin
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 19-30
Tickets: $29-155 (look for discount)

Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical.From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of ALADDIN, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.

Jack and the Beanstalk
Where: The Puppet Company | Glen Echo, MD
When: April 20 – May 21
Tickets: $15

Enjoy this multimedia Legacy production that tells the story of a lazy lad whose life changes because of some magic beans! Using rod puppets and full masks and costumes, TPC fans may recognize The Giant from our annual Nutcracker show. Directed by Danny Pushkin. Recommended for ages 4+.

Sense and Sensibility
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: April 21-23
Tickets: $12

A student production from Imagination. Stage… A playful new adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel follows the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters When Elinor and Marianne Dashwood’s lives are turned upside down by the sudden death of their father, they must navigate financial challenge, romance, and the talk of the town while using good sense or risk their chance at love and happiness. Set in gossipy late 18th-century England, with a fresh female voice, the play is full of humor, emotional depth, and bold theatricality. Recommended for ages 11+.

The Taming of the Shrew
Where: Synetic Theater | Crystal City, VA
When: April 21-30
Tickets: $35-50 (look for discount)

Glam! Glitteratzi! Fashionistas! High art! In a world surrounded by the rich and fabulous, two unlikely suitors — her a rebel, him steampunk — find themselves embroiled in a passionate battle of wills. This electrifying “Silent Shakespeare” adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew follows Katherina and Petruchio as they discover the journey to love isn’t always the easiest of roads. This is a Synetic Teen Company production.

Les Misérables
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 22-23
Admission: $69-225

In 1986, the Kennedy Center hosted the pre-Broadway run of what has become, undisputedly, one of the world’s most popular musicals. Now, they are bringing her home. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption—a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Recommended for ages 12 +.

The Ice Cream Truck Is Broken! & Other Emotional Arias
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 22-23
Admission: $25

Join hosts Kennedy Center Artistic Advisor Renée Fleming and inaugural Education Artist-in-Residence Mo Willems for a family-friendly event exploring our strongest emotions through one of the world’s most dramatic genre…opera! Together with the Washington National Opera Cafritz Young Artists, Mo and Renée present famous arias as you’ve never heard them before, bursting with Mo-ified lyrics to explore the range of human emotions in a way audiences new and old can appreciate and enjoy. Recommended for ages 5+.

Gravity & Other Myths: a Simple Space
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: April 26-27
Tickets: $34-54

Bring the whole family to see Gravity & Other Myths, an Australian circus company pushing the boundaries of contemporary circus. In A Simple Space, you’ll witness seven acrobats pushed to their physical limits in an intimate setting. This poignant performance is simultaneously frantic and delicate. Propelled by the driving sound of live percussion and without the need for contrived theatrical overlay, A Simple Space evokes a visceral response, as the performers are encouraged to let down their guard and share the reality of failure and weakness. With nothing left to hide behind, the personal narratives come through naturally.

Each Kindness
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 28-29
Admission: $20 (look for discount)

This world premiere concert features Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson reading the book, Each Kindness, onstage to music composed, arranged, and performed by six members of celebrated string production company Rootstock Republic, along with projections of E.B. Lewis’ striking artwork. About the book: Every time the new girl Maya tries to join Chloe and her friends, they reject her. Eventually Maya stops coming to school. When Chloe’s teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship, and thinks about how much better it could have been if she’d shown a little kindness toward Maya. Recommended for ages 7+.

Fyütch
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 2, 11am
Admission: $20

Discover community, Black history, and culture through a blend of hip hop, soul, R&B, pop, and reggae! Fyütch’s live shows are filled with spirited songs, spoken word, and visual storytelling to educate, entertain, and empower the next generation.

Monty Python’s Spamalot
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 12-21
Admission: $69-325

Telling the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and the quest for the Holy Grail in song, Monty Python’s Spamalot features a chorus line of knights, men in tights, killer rabbits, and sexy dancing divas. The score will be performed onstage by the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra. Recommended for ages 13+.

Beetlejuice
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 16-28
Tickets: $60-140 (look for discount)

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

New Squid on the Block
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: June 1-2
Tickets: $3-9

This brand new show from Barefoot Puppets celebrates creative thinking, problem-solving, friendship, and fun! Featuring penguins, a submarine, MORE PENGUINS, orcas, and a curious squid, this show takes the audience on an epic journey to Antarctica, encountering unusual creatures in the depths of the ocean on the way. Featuring beautifully handcrafted puppets, a magical set, and an original score by Ned Haskins, this comedic, wordless performance celebrates the ability to create connections despite our differences. Recommended for ages 4-8.

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Five Things: March 28, 2023

 

1. Have you heard about the new Candytopia that just opened at Tysons Corner? The immersive, pop-up “museum” features candy sculptures, interactive exhibits, and of course, sweet treats to enjoy. Think Willy Wonka meets Kusama meets ICE!, and get your imaginations, cameras, and social media poses ready. The experience takes an hour or less, depending on your children’s ages, interest, and amount of time spent diving in the pit of faux marshmallows. Tickets are $30/adult, $23/age 4-12, free for kids 3 and under. (Thanks to KFDC Contributor Emily Moise for sharing this one!) And PS: If you’ve heard of CAMP stores, you’ll be excited to see one coming soon across from Candytopia!

2. This Thursday, March 30, is MLB Opening Day, and the Nats are swinging into the season with a home-opener against the Atlanta Braves — good timing for families with kids on Spring Break this week!  The game begins at 1:05pm, and there will be extra activities to enjoy before it starts. The World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales will take a tour of the Navy Yard neighborhood before finishing up at Nationals Park.  There will also be live entertainment by several DJs in the ballpark. And caricature artists, face painters, and balloon twisters will bring more fun to the Family Picnic Area.  Tickets are still available and start at $35.  If you can’t make it Thursday, plan for a game another time this season, and be sure to check out special promos.  And for a chance to see some Nats stars even sooner, fans are invited to attend the red carpet arrivals prior to the 2023 Nationals Homecoming Gala that is being held this evening at The Anthem located at The Wharf. Arrivals are scheduled from approximately 5-7pm outside The Brighton, host of the official Red Carpet Watch Party.

 

3. We recently had a chance to try Spicebird, a new takeout/delivery food option that specializes in Southeast Asian roast chicken.  It was delicious, and perfect for feeding our family of four!  The spice-rubbed chicken was so flavorful, and the sides were tasty and interesting — we especially enjoyed the Thai basil fried rice, tumeric cabbage, and berempah potatoes, but everything was so good.  A whole chicken with two sides is just $33, and you can order more a la cart. (Full disclosure: Our meal was complimentary, but sharing my honest opinion!)

 

4. Spring things to get excited about! (This was kind of shared in the Weekend Round-Up, but under a veiled link to this.) 🙂

 

5. I wish I didn’t feel a need to share posts like this.

 

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Filed under 2023, DC, Five Things, Spring

The Weekend Round-Up:
March 24-26

 

Happy Weekend!

Quick links to an array of ideas for local activities:
Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* The Great Indoors
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Baltimore with Kids
* Bike Rides
* Stunning Spaces
* Peaceful Places

‘Tis the Cherry Blossom Season
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

The cherry blossoms just hit their peak at the Tidal Basin, so you can see them in all their glory. You can also seek out other places to view them — these cherry blossom viewing tips includes suggestions for where to go. Even more, events and activities to celebrate the iconic bloom are getting into full swing. Some are listed below, and you can find even more happening this weekend in this post as well as plan for the rest of the season.

Blossom Kite Festival
Where: Washington Monument Grounds | National Mall, DC
When: SUNDAY, 10am – 4:30pm (new date due to rain)
Admission: Free

The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument truly is a sight to behold. The sails you see flying at the Kite Festival each spring range from simple to pretty darn creative. Dragons, sharks, butterflies, giant soccer balls, even some that look like big, beautiful origami works way outnumber your basic diamond. And anyone can go fly their kites — you can BYO, purchase on there, and pick up a kit to make your own.

Free Family FunFest
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 1:30pm
Admission: Free

This free festival from the Bowie Baysox annual is loaded with fun for the whole family. Enjoy carnival-style rides and games, lots of activities from Baysox sponsors and partners, opportunities to hang out with mascots Louie and Rocko, raffles, and more. Fans can also tour the field and walk the warning track. Even more, the Bowie Police Department will be there with police cars, horses from the Maryland National Capital Park Police Mounted Unit, and fire apparatus from PG Fire & EMS.

Cherry Blossom Family Celebration
Where: American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free

Join SAAM for their annual celebration of spring and the blooming trees of DC. Enjoy taiko drumming and traditional Japanese dance performances, and break out your best Japanese pop dance moves with Les the DJ. Craft your own cherry blossom trees to take home, make a kinobori kite to fly at the kite festival, or try your hand at an origami Sakura. And a scavenger hunt will add some extra fun to explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt and enjoy festive. Register in advance. See more about the museum in this KFDC post.

RiverRun Festival
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through April 22
Admission: Varies by event (some free)

This international festival celebrating the world’s rivers fittingly started on World Water Day and runs through Earth Day. The festival is presenting all kinds of performances and events by talent from across the globe. Performing and visual artists, authors, chefs, filmmakers, climate experts, and more fascinating people will bring world-class performances, exhibitions, films, talks, workshops, and more events to the Kennedy Center. This weekend, you can view art installations and exhibits inside the Kennedy Center and on the grounds of The REACH and do some of your own art projects inspired by the world’s rivers in the Moonshot Studio.

Meet the Author & Hear a Reading
Where: SAY DC Studio | Rhode Island Ave NW, DC
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: Free

Join Say, the stuttering association for the young, for this special event with acclaimed author C.C. Harrington. Hear her read a passage from her book, Wildoak. Attendees will also have a chance to ask questions, learn about the process of writing stories, get copies of the book signed, and do a nature-inspired craft project. Register in advance here!

Beauty and the Beast
Where: Synetic Theater | Rosslyn, VA
When: Through April 3
Admission: $35-65

This fresh adaptation is a sparkling and inspiring Gothic romance full of wonder, mystery and redemption expressed through Synetic’s unique stage effects, expressionistic design, puppetry and movement. No sing-alongs or talking teacups from Disney’s animated film in this piece of theater art. Though just as magnificent, this show’s got bite. Note that this production of Beauty and the Beast contains fantasy violence and may be scary to younger children.

The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Admission: $12-39

Kameeka is confident that today she will finally beat her rival, Jamara, and become the Hula-Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street in Harlem. But she has to prepare for Miz Adeline’s birthday party, and almost ruins the day. Until Miz Adeline confesses that she’s also got the itch–the hula-hoopin’ itch! Her fingers start snappin’. Her hips start swingin’. Soon everyone’s hips are swinging as the party spills out onto the street.

The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon
Where: George Mason Center for the Arts | Fairfax, VA
When: Saturday, 1pm & 4pm
Admission: $15
Catch a show based on the beloved book… The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon follows the zany adventures of an inventive young boy. Resourceful and brave, Harold creates the world he wants to explore, using nothing more than a big purple crayon and his sky’s-the-limit imagination. Enchantment Theatre Company’s production takes you on a wild ride as Harold jets to Mars, joins a circus (he tames a lion!), and rescues a princess in an enchanted castle. Combining life-size puppets, pantomime, dance, magic, and original music, The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon will delight and amaze its audiences, from children to grandparents—anyone, in fact, whose heart is young and adventurous. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Fitting In
Where: Theatre on the Run | Alexandria, VA
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $10

Arts on the Horizon presents this show for littles… Three siblings find themselves in a room full of possibilities and one not so simple task- to put things in their proper place. However, they soon discover that throwing this and that into a box is not the same as finding where it fits in. Through clowning, movement, and original music, three performers will transform everyday objects into something extraordinary. Is a blanket a blanket? Or is it the sail of a boat setting off on an epic voyage? Together, we can find the magic buried in the bottom of every box, and hidden inside the world around us! Recommended for ages 2-5.

Wake Up, Brother Bear
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Admission: $12-39

Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in an unforgettable theatre experience. Recommended for ages 1-5.

Fun on the Farm + Egg Hunts
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $12/adult, $10/child

Great Country Farms has opened for the season!  The five-acre area contains all kinds of fun that little ones love — rope swings, tractor tires, giant tube slides and more! See animals in the barnyard, get lost in a maze, and test agility skills on the farm ninja course. you can also get the Easter celebration started early — egg hunts are starting this weekend, too. Reserve timed tickets in advance.

Wizards vs Spurs
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary (check for discount)

The Wizards are playing at home on Saturday evening — watch them work some on-court magic against the San Antonio Spurs. Get there early to get in on the Caron Butler bobblehead giveaway for the first 10,000 fans.  And plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Hill Country BBQ.

DC United vs. New England Revolution
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 7:30pm
Admission: Tickets start at $25 (look for discount tix)

Check out some soccer action on Saturday evening. DC United is hosting New England Revolution at home on Saturday. As always, I recommend taking public transportation or parking in the Navy Yard neighborhood and walking to Audi Field from there. Plan for a pre-match bite — El Bebe, All Purpose Pizza, The Salt Line, and Dacha are conveniently located and my top recs for family-friendly spots to eat there.

Family Funday with King Bullfrog
Where: Hook Hall | Petworth, DC
When: Sunday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $5

Bring the kiddos for some dancing and singing with King Bullfrog at Hoook Hall on Sunday. Coffee and frozen drinks will be available for purchase for parents, and crafts for the kids to enjoy! Proceeds from the show benefit DC Action!

Get in the Spirit of Women’s Soccer
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 4pm
Admission: Tickets start at $20

The Washington Spirit, our local women’s pro soccer team, kicks off their season at Audi field this weekend, as they take on Seattle’s OL Reign. Enjoy some amazing soccer play while supporting our home team and women in sports, plus see a few stars of women’s soccer (including the amazing Megan Rapinoe!) in action. Get BOGO tickets for $20 here or purchase other seats here.

NoVa Parking
Where: Various 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. And some are just beautiful to roam around.  Find things to do by activity, or check out individual parks and see what they have going on. A couple of specific recs:  FountainheadPohick BayPotomac Overlook, and Meadowlark.

Petal Porches
Where: Around the DC area
When: Through April 16
Admission: Free

Check out local porches decorated for cherry blossom season!  This newish tradition encouraged residents and businesses around the area to get creative and show their blossom spirit by decorating their porches, yards, and windows to spread joy and connect communities. Find a map here showing locations of all registered Petal Porches, so you can plan a walk or drive to see and share in the celebration of spring.

Celebrate Women’s History
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
March is Women’s History Month, and there are so many great ways to celebrate it around DC, with something for all ages. See some exhibits, tour local landmarks, enjoy live entertainment… all of it showcasing women and their accomplishments. This post has details on where you can do that this month — and beyond!

Blooms at the Fort
Where: Fort McHenry | Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15 (some of the grounds are free)
DC isn’t the only city with cherry blossoms in bloom. You can see them in Baltimore, too, and Fort McHenry should be very near peak this weekend.  It also makes for any interesting, informative, and enjoyable outing for all ages. Engaging exhibits range from historical objects and structures to multimedia displays and interactives. And the grounds located right on the Chesapeake are lovely to stroll on a nice day.  Make a longer day of it in Baltimore (or even a weekend)  — the KFDC Guide to Exploring Baltimore with Kids has ideas and info for all kinds of things to do.

Cool Hikes
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

If you want to get out of the crowded city and get a dose of nature, hit the trail! See flowers beginning to bloom, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and savor the time outdoors. This post has a a bunch of recommendations for places to walk in the woods with the kids.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* I was asked a lot about our family’s summer vacation in Greece, and I finally wrote about it!😊
* The Capital Weather Gang’s five best spots to see DC’s cherry blossoms besides the Tidal Basin.
* Van Leeuwen Ice Cream just opened its first DC scoop shop in the Union Market neighborhood (418 Morse St. NE).
* Soccer fans likely know already that Arsenal FC will be playing MLS All Stars at Audi Field this summer.
* You should be able to get one of these in time for the festival tomorrow on Sunday if you order today. (If not, you can still use it later!)
* Parent night out? Give a Hoot Comedy Club is presenting a lineup of DMV comedy all stars on Sunday evening.

 

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Filed under 2023, DC, Maryland, Spring, Virginia, Weekend

Five Things: March 22, 2023

Rhino sculptures for RiverRun at the Kennedy Center

 

1. RiverRun, an international festival celebrating the world’s rivers, begins today at the Kennedy Center! Fittingly starting on World Water Day and running through Earth Day, April 22, the festival will present all kinds of performances and events by talent from across the globe. Performing and visual artists, authors, chefs, filmmakers, climate experts, and more fascinating people will help carve an artistic path throughout the Kennedy Center — from the concerts halls and theaters to the Hall of States to The REACH to the outdoor grounds — with world-class performances, exhibitions, films, talks, workshops, and more events. View more details and the full schedule here.

 

2. Cherry Blossom Update:  The iconic Tidal Basin trees are realllly close to peaking (see some pics here), but not quite there yet.  My completely non-expert prediction is that they will be in full bloom in the next couple of days, which means it will be packed this weekend. Once again, I strongly recommend reading my Tips for Families Viewing the Cherry Blossoms if you plan to see them, and I can’t stress enough to avoid driving if you can. Not only is parking a pain, traffic getting to and nearby the blossoms can be a total cluster during bloom time, especially when big blossom events are happening like the annual Kite Festival on Saturday.  And, generally, Metro is great way to get around anytime — and a DC thing to do!

 

3. Highly recommended patios for outdoor dining around DC.

 

4. I just watched an interview with Ari Shapiro discussing his new book, The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening — and immediately bought it, sounds that good.

 

5. If you like dance competition shows (I love them!), watch this one.

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Filed under 2023, DC, Five Things, Spring

Host Your Next Party or Event at the National Children’s Museum!

 

This post is paid for by the National Children’s Museum, however, I only promote places, programs, services that I genuinely believe in and think would appeal to KFDC readers.

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Filed under Birthday Parties, DC, Museums, Party, Professional Service