Category Archives: Monuments & Memorials

March 14, 2018 · 10:16 am

The Best Family Events to Celebrate the 2018 Cherry Blossom Season in DC

Peak time around the National Mall

We’re about to hit one of the best times of the year in DC: Cherry Blossom Season! Not only is the city at its prettiest when the famous flowers are in bloom, there are also loads of special events and activities to celebrate it. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, running March 17 – April 15 this year, presents all kinds of fun and enriching opportunities over several weeks, plus there are even more blossom-inspired happenings that aren’t part of the official festivities. Here are the best of them for families to help plan for a peak experience. And for tips on viewing the blossoms, check out this post. Happy Spring!

Sakura Dream
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: March 15 – May 6
Admission: $15/adult
ARTECHOUSE is celebrating spring, renewal, and the cherry blossom season with a new immersive and interactive digital experience. And if past installations there are any indication, this one is going to be amazing — and popular! In Sakura Dream, step into a moonlit, floating environment where larger than life koi fish and colorful cherry blossom petals react to your presence. Contemplate the beautiful and ephemeral nature of life over an interactive 3D sculpture of a koi pond and walk narrow lantern lit “street” that respond to your footsteps.

Cultural Performances
Where: Tidal Basin Welcome Area
When: March 17 – April 1
Admission: Free
Catch live entertainment as you take in views of the blossoms! During the bloom season and most of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, there will be music and dance performances on a special stage set up at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area. Enjoy them daily starting March 15 from 12-6pm.

Bloomia Field of Tulips
Where: The Park at CityCenterDC | Downtown DC
When: March 23-24
Admission: Free
Spring into the season with DC’s very own Tulip Festival! For two days only, The Park at CityCenter will be filled with more than 40,000 tulips per day. Entry into the garden is free, and you can take a piece of spring home with you for $1/stem. Every purchase made supports DC Central Kitchen.

Cherry Blossom Celebration
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 24, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join a celebration of Japanese culture! A taiko drumming performance kicks off the day, followed by Japanese music and dance performances, face painting, and cherry-blossom themed crafts. Make your own tatebanko (a Japanese paper diorama) with friends from the Smithsonian’s Freer|Sackler Asian art museums, take a scavenger hunt to find spring themed artworks, and more! The event takes place in the Museum’s beautiful, glass covered Kogod Courtyard.

Friendship Between Nations Family Day
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: March 24, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Join the National Archives for a fun, activity filled day exploring the many ways countries show their friendship, such as the gift of the cherry blossoms from Japan to the US. Investigate treaties, learn about some of the crazy gifts countries have given, and participate in interactive activities designed for the entire family to enjoy.

Go fly a kite at the Washington Monument!

Blossom Kite Festival
Where: Washington Monument Grounds | National Mall, DC
When: March 31, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
Go fly a kite! Seriously. The Kite Festival is probably my favorite event of the blossom season. The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument is truly a sight to behold. It’s magical for kids — and even for me as a jaded adult! The sails you see flying at the 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, so BYO or make one there at an activity station. There’s a competition aspect to the event, too; expert kite enthusiasts will wow crowds with cool stunts, and prizes will be awarded to winners of various categories such as most beautiful, funniest, and aerodynamics.

Growing Community
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: March 31, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
All ages can drop in to explore how nature can be intentionally integrated into and around built spaces to help promote community and encourage civic engagement. Work with friends and family to design and build a large scale model of your own green space inspired by a park in your neighborhood or one you would like to see added to your community. Find out more about the importance of green space in urban areas during Ten (minute) Talks and a spring-inspired story time.

Cherry Blossom Day at the Lab
Where: Children’s Science Center Lab | Fairfax, VA
When: March 31, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $13
Fuse science and cherry blossoms and fun at the Lab! Visitors will create their own unique representation of a cherry blossom. Learn and grow crystals, explore the world of chemical reactions, solubility, and become chemists. Design your own cherry blossom petal, flower, or tree to take home and celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival. Read more about the Children’s Science Center Lab in this KFDC post.

Paints, Pigments, Brushes: All about Japanese Painting
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: March 31, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Enter the world of traditional Japanese painting, or nihonga, in this drop-in Open Studio workshop celebrating the National Cherry Blossom Festival. View a display of colorful pigments and brushes, and try making your own painting alongside visiting Japanese artists Ideguchi Yuki and Iwaizumi Kei. All ages welcome with adult companions.

Japanese Culture Day
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: April 7
Admission: Free
Learn Japanese culture through reading, writing, and craft making with Japanese cultural and linguistic professionals. Cherry Blossom princesses from the last few years will instruct children in the art of tiara-making. And the Japan-America Society of Washington, DC, will present “Japan-In-A-Suitcase,” a program about Japanese life and culture. Tad Hills, an American children’s book author and illustrator, will be joining the Japanese Culture Day for a book reading/signing. He plans to read “How Rocket Learned to Read.” Children can also explore the Library’s Young Readers Center, which is full of current and classic children’s literature – read more about it here.

Open Studio: Celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: April 7, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival with the Freer|Sackler! Take a family-friendly tour and learn about nature in Japanese art (10:30 am). Then, continue to explore the Freer for pop-up art-making activities and artist demonstrations inspired by the spring season. All ages welcome with adult companions.

Family Fun: Japanese Brush Painting
Where: Green Spring Gardens | Alexandria, VA
When: April 7, 1-2:30pm
Admission: $10
Celebrate the blooming of the cherry trees and Japanese culture with Asian sumi-e brush painting at Green Spring Gardens for kids (5 years and up) and their parents. Learn about the materials and brush strokes used in this beautiful art style and take home your own brush painting masterpiece. Art materials provided. Plan for time before or after to explore the beautiful ground. Read more about Green Spring Gardens in this KFDC post.

Cherry Blossom Fun
Where: Room and Board | 14th Street NW
When: April 7, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Join Room and Board for a morning of creative activities celebrating the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Japanese culture. Kids of all ages can make candy sushi, listen to story time, and have an anime caricature drawn of them. Parents are invited to enjoy beverages from a special tea station.

Petalpalooza
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: April 7, 2-9:30pm
Admission: Free
Formerly known as the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival, Petalpalooza will include interactive art installations, larger-than-life games and activities, live music on three outdoor stages, a roller rink, a beer garden, a spectacular fireworks show by Pyrotecnico, and much more along the piers of the Southwest Waterfront, the “home of the cherry blossoms.”

Lantern Lighting & Cherry Blossom Princesses
Where: Tidal Basin | Southwest, DC
When: April 8, 3pm
Admission: Free
Children will be inspired by the beauty of the Cherry Blossom Princesses dressed in their pink kimonos. The Cherry Blossom Princess Program is an educational and cultural program for women aged 19-24 from across the United States, including leadership workshops, building public speaking skills, and creating connections that can help with college applications and future employment. The princesses light the 8.5-foot-tall Japanese stone lantern at the Tidal Basin as part of a truly spectacular celebration of the festival and the enduring friendship between Japan and the United States.

Catch Racing Presidents sightings at the Cherry Blossom Parade!

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue, 7th – 17th St NW | Downtown DC
When: April 14, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
The pinnacle of cherry blossom festivities is easily the parade. Thousands of people line Constitution Avenue every year to watch the spectacle of lavish floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and a variety of performers travel down Constitution Avenue. Tickets for grandstand seats are available for $20, but you can stake out a spot along the curb for free. Plan to arrive early to get a good view — the crowds come out for this one, especially if it’s a pretty spring day.

Sakura Matsuri
Where: Pennsylvania Ave, 3rd-7th St NW | Downtown DC
When: April 14, 10:30am – 6pm
Admission: $10/ages 13+, free/12 & under
Following the Cherry Blossom parade, many folks head over to Sakura Matsuri, the Japanese Street Festival that is America’s largest one-day exhibition of Japanese culture. There will be live music and dance performances, all kinds of Asian and Western foods, martial arts demos, Japanese art, and more. All at a new location in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Be prepared for a crowd.

Ikebana
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: April 15, 1-2pm
Admission: $10
Children can learn the centuries-old tradition of Japanese flower arranging at an ikebana workshop at the National Arboretum. The hour-long workshop is for children ages 10-13. You can also visit an ikebana demonstration and see the Ikebana International exhibit at the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum Exhibits Gallery. Registration required.

Anacostia River Festival
Where: Anacostia Park | Southeast DC
When: April 15, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
The National Park Service and the 11th Street Bridge Park present the 4th annual Anacostia River Festival, also a premier event of the 2018 National Cherry Blossom Festival! Celebrate the Anacostia River with some fun outdoor recreation! Explore the river by canoe, ride in a bike parade, play lawn games with your family, and experience Southeast DC’s local arts scene. This year’s festival will also celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Anacostia Park and the Year of the Anacostia — a year-long invitation to honor its history.

J-POP
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom
When: April 18
Admission: Free
At the daily Millennium Stage show, New York-based pop singer Kana Uemura will perform “J-Pop”, Japanese pop music and American pop music at a free concert suitable for children. Her play list includes her hit song “Goddess of the Toilet,” a whimsical ballad dedicated to her late grandmother who told her there was a god of beauty living in the toilet and if she cleaned the toilet carefully, she would grow up to be beautiful. Her song inspired both tears and laughter across Japan and was a #1 hit.

Where to Celebrate Independence Day Around DC

Fireworks in the neighborhood park last year

What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in our nation’s capital? This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks on the National Mall and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on July 4th and the days leading up to it. Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!

Family Independence Day Funfest
Where: Tudor Place | Georgetown, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $7-10/child $5/adult, free/veterans & military families
Celebrate Independence Day with the family at the home of Martha Washington’s granddaughter and five generations that followed. Salute our nation’s service members! Also play traditional American outdoor games, tour verdant garden “rooms,” make patriotic crafts like a traditional whirligig toy, and of course, savor patriotic sweets. All ages welcome.

National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th-17th Streets | DC
When: July 4, 11:45am
Admission: Free
Many national holidays get a parade in DC, and July 4th is no exception. Scores of spectators are expected to line the Constitution Avenue sidewalks to watch the procession celebrating Independence Day make its way from 7th to 17th Streets. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, equestrian groups, drill teams, and military units will be among the pageantry. Stake out your spot along the route early, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers every year.

Independence Day Celebration on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: July 4, all day (and evening)
Admission: Free
After the parade (even earlier for some), the National Mall will begin filling up for a day of July 4th festivities — the Smithsonian Folklife Festival from 7th to 12th Streets, Junior Ranger activities, concerts, and more. And the grand finale of it all: At 9:09pm, the sky above will explode with color when the amazing iconic fireworks display. Fireworks will be launched from the Reflecting Pool area, so plan accordingly. *If you want to view the fireworks without having to head to the Mall, see these suggestions from WTOP in other vantage points to view the display.

A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 8pm; gates open at 3pm
Admission: Free
Down past the other end of the Mall, A Capitol Fourth, the annual Independence Day concert that airs live on PBS, will feature even more musical pageantry. This year’s show, hosted by John Stamps, will include performances by The Beach Boys, The Four Tops, Kellie Pickler, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Choral Arts Society of Washington, the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, and many more exciting acts. (KFDC tip: Enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on July 3 – same time and place!)

An American Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA
When: July 4, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $20/adults, $10/ages 6-11, free for ages 5 and under.
The home of George Washington salutes the first commander-in-chief with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, and a visit from the “first” first couple, “General and Mrs. Washington.” See the full schedule of events here.

Fourth of July at the National Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 8am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate July 4th at the National Archives Building with a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. There will also be historical guests, patriotic music, and family activities from 11am – 4pm. The full schedule of events is available on the National Archives website.

America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 3, 6:05pm & July 4, 11:05am
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. Kick off Independence Day on July 3rd, when the Nats play the Mets and enjoy a freedom fireworks show after. The July 4th game against the Mets will also include an aerial appearance by the Golden Knights Parachute Team and a performance by The Rockettes! Before you go, be sure to check this post for tips to save on a Nats game.

Neighborhood Parades
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: Most on July 4, times vary
Admission: Free
Keep it close to home at a community celebration. You likely are aware of July 4th events taking place in your neighborhood or nearby, but if you’re still looking for a hyperlocal fête, check out this list of parades around town. (Note that the list is from 2016, but the information is largely the same, and all of the links lead to this year’s events.)

July 4th Climb & Celebration
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: July 4
Admission: $42-55
Spend the holiday in the tree and enjoy a day of climbing, zip lining, and American spirit From 10am – 2pm, they’ll have an All-American playlist to keep you in the patriotic mood. Don’t forget to wear your red, white and blue!

Falls Church 4th of July Celebration
Where: George Mason High School | Fairfax, VA
When: July 4, 7pm
Admission: Free
The City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department will present its annual free July 4th Celebration at George Mason High School (7124 Leesburg Pike). Musical entertainment begins at 7pm with a live performance, with fireworks following at 9:20pm. Blankets and flat-based chairs are allowed for seating on the field. Food and drinks will be sold on site.

Star-Spangled Spectacular
Where: Oregon Ridge State Park | Cockeysville, MD
When: July 3
Admission: $9-20
For something a little different than the usual DC July 4th festivities, head north to Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville, MD, on Monday. You can spread out a blanket or set up chairs on the sloping green lawn amidst a gorgeous setting as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra performs their Star-Spangled Spectacular, culminating with a magnificent fireworks display. The starbursts in the sky as a live symphony plays is truly magical. The park opens at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm both days. Be sure to note these parking instructions, as on–site parking is $15, but you can park off site and take a shuttle for free.

July 4th @ Long Bridge Park
Where: Long Bridge Park | Arlington, VA
When: July 4, 5-10pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Independence Day at Arlington’s sixth annual July 4th Celebration @ Long Bridge Park! Join in the patriotic spirit with food trucks, live music featuring Jeff From Accounting, sports and games for all ages, moon bounces (weather permitting), face painting, and great views of the DC fireworks display. Free shuttles from Pentagon City and Crystal City metro stations.

McLean 4th of July Fireworks
Where: Churchill Road Elementary School | McLean, VA
When: July 4
Admission: Free
McLean’s annual Independence Day Celebration returns to Churchill Road Elementary School. The fireworks show begins at sunset, approximately 9:15pm. In addition to the large fireworks display, patrons can come early to enjoy musical entertainment by a local disc jockey, as well as food trucks selling a variety of entrees and snacks.

Picnic Baskets to Celebrate
Where: Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken | DC & VA
When: Pick Up July 4
Cost: $50
More like a how to celebrate than a where, Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken is offering a special summer picnic basket at their DC and Virginia locations. The basket includes 8 pieces of their signature fried chicken, 4 biscuits, 1 large cole slaw, and a half dozen doughnuts, and feeds up to four people. It will be available for pick up on July 4 from 7:30am – 5:30pm at G Street and from 7:30am -8pm at Falls Church. Pre-orders must be placed by end of day July 3 at 202.809.5565 or info@astrodoughnuts.com. Limited quantities of baskets will be available for walk-ins.

The Weekend Round-Up: May 26-29

High five, it's a 3-day weekend! (Okay, so they're comparing hand sizes, but yay for the weekend, anyway!)

High five, it’s a 3-day weekend! (Okay, they’re comparing hand sizes, but, still, yay for the weekend!)

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer, when some of the season’s best activities begin — swimming under the sky, splashing around in spray parks, catching music and movies in the open air. Along with these staples of the warm months, there are many special events going on over the next few days — holiday tributes and observances, a celebration of JFK, a strawberry fest among them. And, of course, there are ongoing activities galore to help enjoy some quality time with the kids. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
It may not be official on the calendar, but “summer” is underway! Water fun, outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun or are about to begin in DC. Start the weekend with free music at the Yards Park’s first concert of season or Jazz in the Garden on the National Mall. Make a splash at a public pool or a sprayground, see a family flick outdoors at National Harbor on Sunday night, and so much more. The KFDC 2017 Guide to Summer in DC has the scoop on where and when you can experience all the joys of summer.

Celebrate JFK at 100
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Saturday, 12–10pm
Admission: Free
The Kennedy Center welcomes the public to a free Open House in celebration of John F. Kennedy’s 100th birthday. Explore and experience the performing arts in the halls, theaters, and plazas of the Kennedy Center through more than 30 free performances, activities, and events for all ages and tastes, featuring artists from the DC region, across the U.S., and abroad.

Memorials Tour
Where: National Mall, DC
When: All Weekend
Admission: Free
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 will likely be crowded, so plan accordingly.

May the Force be with Nationals
Where: Nationals Park | Navy Yard, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are playing at home for the holiday weekend, and you can catch games against the Padres on Friday (7:05pm), Saturday (4:05pm), and Sunday (1:35pm). Saturday is Star Wars Day when there will be costumed characters and special nods to the Force. Be sure to check out KFDC tips on how to do a Nats game without breaking the bank. And if you go on Sunday, plan to stay after for Kids Run the Bases when children can loop the infield after the last out.

El Galeón Ship Tour
Where: City Marina | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 10am – 7pm
Admission: $10/adult, $5/child, free for under 5
El Galeón, a full-size reconstructed Spanish sailing vessel used in early Colonial times, will be docked at the City Marina in Old Town Alexandria as she makes a stop there on a journey up and down the East Coast. Visitors are welcome to tour five of the six decks of the 16th century Spanish galleon replica. Advance tickets are available online.

Delaplane Strawberry Festival
Where: Sky Meadows State Park | Delaplane, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $25/car
Spend Memorial Day weekend at the 24th Annual Delaplane Strawberry Festival! In addition to having delicious, gourmet-sized strawberries for sale, the festival features live music, a corn hole tournament, children’s games, hayrides, pony rides, a 4-H petting zoo, crafts, strolling entertainers, a 5k trail run, and much more.

Hometown Holidays
Where: Rockville Town Square | Rockville, MD
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: Free
A music festival, the Taste of Rockville, and Memorial Day events make up most of the festivities at the Rockville Town Center this weekend. Kids activities, food, and more fun will also be part of the lineup. View the website for the complete schedule of events.

Homefront Street Cars
Where: National Capital Trolley Museum | Silver Spring, MD
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: $5/child, $7/adult
Recall the role of the transit industry during wartime in observance of Memorial Day. Enjoy Tilley the Trolley and Billy the Bus, a wartime production of the Capital Transit Company, and Ten Seconds to Go, a wartime production of Kansas City Public Service. The special exhibit, Homefront Street Cars, will also be on view.

Blast Off!
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
Join the Air & Space Museum in Chantilly for Making STEM Magic, a weekly program that introduces young visitors to engineering in a fun and creative way. On Saturdays this month Blast Off!: Propulsion is the theme, and guests will earn about rockets and propulsion in the May design challenge.

The Jungle Book
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through Sunday
Tickets: $15-30
This weekend is the last chance to see the show about Mowgli, a human child brought up in the jungles of India by a family of wolves. Recommended for ages 4 and up, there are performances both Saturday and Sunday at 1:30pm and 4pm.

Shows on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12/Cinderella, $6/Tiny Tots
Cinderella is the Main Stage production at the Glen Echo puppet theatre with performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Old McDonald’s Farm is the featured Tiny Tots show on Saturday at 10am

Market Days
Where: Central Farm Markets | Rockville & Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 1:30pm
Admission: Free
Visit these farmers markets that help support local communities with activities, events, and programming that help to educate, give back, and fight hunger. Shop for seasonal produce and more, and don’t miss the Kids Club with activities for children ages 4 and up from 10am – 12pm — this week they can enjoy a rainbow craft project while supplies lasts. The Pike Central Farm Market is on Saturday in the REI parking lot, and the Bethesda Central Farm Market is on Sunday in Downtown Bethesda.

All Aboard for a Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Depot of the W&OD Railroad | Vienna, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Chug on down to Vienna to watch model train and trolley activities that realistically depict an actual railroad that existed in North Carolina in the 1950′s, the Western North Carolina (WNC). Every hill, town, building, locomotive, rail car, and industry in this layout is modeled after those places and things as they looked in that era. Well, almost everything. To satisfy popular demand, expect an occasional sighting of Thomas the Tank Engine (and a few of his friends) chugging around among the bigger steam and diesel locomotives. The Vienna Depot is located at 231 Dominion Road NE in Vienna, VA.

Fool For All
Where: Gallaudet University Theatre | Northeast DC
When: Sunday, 1-2pm
Admission: Free
Join the Faction of Fools Theatre Company for the 8th Annual “Fool For All” One-Day Fest: Tales of Chaos & Cannoli. Among the festivities that celebrate Commedia is a kid’s workshop offering a primer on the theatre tradition. Participants will learn about stock characters, how the plays are made, and even get to make a mask they can take home!

Take Your Pick
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Strawberries are ripe and ready for harvest, and many area farms welcome guests to come PYO. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. Sunscreen and hat also recommended.

Go with the Flow
Where: Waterways around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by boathouse
Enjoy the weekend on the water, where you can paddle and explore. A bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, rowboats, and pontoons. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go, and you can also paddle from nearby Thompson Boathouse and Ballpark Boathouse next to Yards Park. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also has vessels for rent along with free pontoon boat tours on weekends from 5-5:45. If you’re up for a bigger excursion, you can rent your own pontoon at Solomons Island. And you can see where else you can explore by water in this round-up of great places to row.

National Memorial Day Concert
Where: West lawn of the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Sunday, 8-9:30pm, gates open at 5pm
(or Saturday for the dress rehearsal)
Admission: Free
Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2017 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday from 8 – 9:30pm. Laurence Fishburn is hosting the event this year, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our country. If you’re planning to go, the FAQ page on the concert website is worth a read. KFDC Tip: If you can’t make Sunday’s show or don’t want to deal with the crowds, Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public — gates open at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm.

Memorial Day Weekend Fun
Where: Port Discovery | Baltimore, MD
When: Sunday, 10am – 5pm & Monday, 9:30am – 5pm
Admission: $14.95/ages 2 and up
Bring the whole family to the children’s museum in Baltimore for a fun-filled Memorial Day Weekend. On Sunday, enjoy lively music from Mr. Norman, enjoy the signature story time, and learn about rhythm at an interactive Jingle Jangle Music Time! On Monday, the Museum is OPEN, and you can kick off the unofficial start to summer with with Mr. Daveed at the interactive Percussion Garden, create a shrinky dink dog tag in honor of those who’ve served, enjoy the lively Jingle Jangle Music Time, and much more.

Memorial Day Observance
Where: Arlington National Cemetery | Arlington, VA
When: Monday, 10:30am
Admission: Free
Observe the holiday at one of the most iconic spots to honor those who have served. A prelude concert by the United States Navy Band will begin in the amphitheater at 10:30am, and a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at 11am followed by an observance program in the amphitheater. Space is limited to standing room only for the wreath-laying ceremony, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the amphitheater. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure access to these events and should plan to be seated no later than 9:30am. Read more about Arlington National Cemetery here.

National Memorial Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th to 17th Streets | Downtown DC
When: Monday, 2pm
Admission: Free
The annual National Memorial Day Parade celebrates and honors American veterans with a grand procession through the city. Get a curbside view of military units and vehicles, marching bands, flag teams, and hundreds of veterans as they travel up Constitution Avenue.

We Remember
Where: National Museum of the American Indian | National Mall, DC
When: Monday, 2pm
Admission: Free
On Memorial Day, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian will teach people how to preserve veterans’ keepsakes. In the program “We Remember,” experts from the museum and the Library of Congress will advise visitors on how to care for letters, photographs, medals, uniforms and other memorabilia from family members. Informal information sessions will be held throughout the event, which will take place in the Potomac Atrium. Visitors are invited to bring their objects to the museum for caretaking advice.

***More Good Stuff to Know***
* Plan ahead for the Occoquan Arts & Crafts Show taking place next weekend, June 3-4!
* Check out Lunch Squares, a brand new blog by a local mom, with kid-friendly lunch box recipes and more based on seasonal fruits and veggies.
* Read about and get a glimpse of Luray Caverns, one of the region’s most spectacular natural landmarks.
* Did you know May is Bike Month? It is — and Public Bikes is celebrating with a great sale!
* No Monsters in My Bed recently posted a round-up of cute tops for summer!

The Weekend Round-Up: March 31 – April 2

Go fly your kite at the Washington Monument this weekend

This round-up is coming to you a little earlier than usual, and you’re going to need that extra time to figure out your plans because there are so many cool things going on this weekend. Watch the sky fill with kites around the Washington Monument. See Baltimore in a whole new light — literally. Get your Easter fun started. Cheer on local sports teams. Catch live entertainment on local stages. Take a time trip to the 18th century at a colonial farm. And there’s way more…read on for details on all of it. Happy Weekend!

Go Fly a Kite!
Where: Washington Monument Grounds
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
The annual Blossom Kite Festival is probably my favorite event of the cherry blossom season. The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument is truly one to behold. It’s magical for kids (and even for me as a jaded adult)! The sails you see flying there 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, so BYO or make one there at an activity station (available while supplies last). There’s a competition aspect to the event, too; expert kite enthusiasts will wow crowds with cool stunts, and prizes will be awarded to winners of various categories such as most beautiful, funniest, and aerodynamics.

Light City
Where: Baltimore’s Waterfront
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free
Head up to Baltimore for what sounds like a uniqu e, amazing experience! See the waterfront transformed with large-scale light installations, performances, music, and innovation. Central to Light City is the BGE Light Art Walk along Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, featuring more than 50 attractions including illuminated sculptures, projections, interactive technologies, performances, concerts, food vendors and a children’s area. Light City’s innovation programming generates an ecosystem of ideas and learning during the day – while lights, performances, and live music re-imagine Baltimore at night. Be sure to check out the family-friendly features of the festival.

Nats Are Back!
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, 4:05pm & Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The official baseball season hasn’t begun, but you can start getting into the swing of it at exhibition games this weekend as the Nats host the Red Sox. Tickets are still available for the Friday match, though sold out on Saturday, but you can try scoring seats through a secondary ticket outlet. And before you go, be sure to check out these KFDC tips for doing a Nats game without breaking the bank.

Cherokee Days
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the fourth annual Cherokee Days Festival with the NMAI Representatives from all three federally recognized Cherokee tribes — the Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are taking part. The event showcases the shared history and cultural lifeways of the Cherokee through interactive exhibits, storytelling, traditional flute playing, weaponry, woodcarving, beadwork, traditional games, basket weaving, and pottery demonstrations, along with music and dance performances. FYI: The NMAI always throws a good festival — the dance performances in the atrium are particularly great!

Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult at the gate
Head to Great Country for the first “crop” of the spring: Marshmallow Picking! Do marshmallow peeps grow on trees? Be sure to check it out and harvest a few to roast on the bonfire with Farmer Bob. You can even purchase a s’mores kit to melt away that chocolate craving. Kids can also help find Easter Bunny eggs during egg hunts (by age – see schedule on website) with over 18,000 treat-filled eggs. Plan to visit spring chicks and baby animals, check out the spring plantings in the greenhouse, take a hayride and rejoice in the new season. Don’t forget to bring your camera for photo ops with the Easter Bunny. Buy advance tickets online for only $10/adult — visit the website to purchase, and look for the schedule of events there, too.

Artomatic Children’s Day
Where: Vornado/Charles E. Smith in Crystal City
When: Sunday
Admission: Free
This six-week art event featuring work by more than 600 artists, performers, musicians, and creatives of all kinds is hosting special activities and workshops especially for kids this Sunday. Young art-goers can help create a mural, catch a roaming magician performing tricks, join a community weaving project, work on an origami installation, and more! Visit the website for details and the schedule of activities.

Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
Where: Bethesda Row
When: Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Admission: Free, but treats range in price
Take the kiddies to a mobile vehicle of cuteness that offers a delicious array of Hello Kitty sweets and special goodies to fans of all ages. The yummy treats on board the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck will include a 3-piece Hello Kitty cookie set, a rainbow macaron box set that includes a surprise Sanrio character design, a 4-pack of mini cakes, and bow-shaped bottles of water. In addition to the goodies, a Hello Kitty Cafe mug, a supercute pink Hello Kitty Cafe t-shirt and the pop icon’s signature bow headband will also be available to purchase.

Kids Capitol Hill Walking Tour
Where: Start & end at Southeast Library
When: Saturday, 1-3:30pm
Admission: $15/members, $20/non-members
Kids ages 8-12 can join this District Architect Center DACkids program! Whether your family lives on Capitol Hill, or you’ve visited the US Capitol and Supreme Court buildings, there’s plenty to discover about the history and architecture of this neighborhood where people have lived, worked, and shopped for many years. This kids’ tour will explore why buildings look the way they do and the stories of the people who shaped the neighborhood. Learn new terms and identify the architectural features of libraries, churches, the Marine Barracks, as well as row houses and buildings that have been adapted to new uses. Parents are welcome to join the tour and be part of the learning experience.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Reserve free tickets to see Peabody Opera’s Papageno!, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National show
* The Three Billy Goats Gruff just opened on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Mother Goose Caboose is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* Watch virtuoso juggling gone wild with Water on Mars at Black Rock Performing Arts Center
* Paper Dreams at Imagination Stage will delight young audiences
* Ragtime is running at Ford’s Theatre, a historic DC etertainment venue
* Laura Doherty & The Heartbeats is playing the Saturday morning show at Jammin Java
* A Raisin in the Sun opening at Arena Stage is a good option with older kids or for a date night
* Go KidFree at a performance of The Select (The Sun Also Rises) at the Lansburgh Theatre — this weekend is your last chance to see it!

Saturday Family Jazz Session
Where: Strathmore
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: $10
Jumpstart a love for jazz with classes that nurture talent and spark musicality! Music, history, and fun come together this weekend when kids learn about blues superstar Gertrude “Ma” Pridgett Rainey, plus the foundations of singing, vocabulary, and form essential to the blues. Recommended for ages 3-8. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. All attendees, regardless of age, must have a ticket.

Kite Day
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $10-12
Children ages 3-10 are invited to make and decorate a kite, then watch it soar during kite flying activities. Pre-reservations required! Plan to hang out and enjoy the many other attractions at the park after (or before) your session. Animal visits, wagon rides, and playgrounds are just a few of them!

More Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Several Fairfax parks
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 to enjoy. Enjoy a nature session for tiny tots at Huntley Meadows Park, join an April Fool’s campfire at Hidden Oaks Nature Center, let kids be animal scientists at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, celebrate National Poetry Month at Green Spring Gardens. Go here to see all of your options and register for activities.

Nat Geo Kids Club
Where: Bloomingdale’s Court, Tysons Corner Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Explore with National Geographic at their monthly Kids Club! Enjoy free fun, educational games and activities — it’s a great opportunity for children to learn with activities and games that focus on discovery through play. It’s all complimentary and also includes snacks provided by California Pizza Kitchen, music, balloon animals, and face painting.

DC United vs. Philadelphia Union
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets start at $20
Kick it at a soccer game on Saturday. The DC United are hosting the Philadelphia Union for an evening match. Be sure to stop by the Fan Zone in section 222 for extra activities that kids and adults can enjoy.

Annual Garden Party
Where: Community Forklift
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Throughout the winter, Community Forklift collects gently-used and surplus lawn & garden supplies as well as outdoor décor and furniture. Come spring, they put it all out for your shopping pleasure at their Annual Garden Party. Even more, along with the sale, the event will feature gardening demonstrations, experts, and vendors; activities for kids; and local bands and food. It’s become so popular, they extended it to two day this year!

Spring Egg Hunt & Farm Fun
Where: Ticonderoga Farm
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $14.95 ages 2 and up
With giant slides, awesome jumping pillows, playgrounds, animals, mazes, and more, the farm in Chantilly is a blast everyday (it’s open daily), but they take the fun up a notch on weekends in early spring. Along with the permanent amusement, there are egg hunts ( and visits from the Easter Bunny. Be sure to check the website for timing of specific activities. For an idea of what’s there, see this post about their Winter Festival, which is much of the same, but with Easter instead of Christmas festivities. And this post about a class field trip has info and pics, too.

Go Colonial
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: $3/adults, $2/ages 3 and up, free for 2 and under
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm opens for the first weekend of its 2017 season, welcoming visitors to explore family life on a pre-Revolutionary War working farm! There is a tobacco barn, farm house, garden, orchard, and animals. Guests can also interact with a family portraying life as it was back then. Read more about it in this post (ignore the “autumn” part; it’s a great outing in the spring, too) and this one.

Everyday Play
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Want even more options for local activities with the kids? The Everyday Play page is loaded with ideas for ongoing fun — every single one of them tried and tested by yours truly and crew. And if you’re looking specifically for things to do outside, check out The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids. And for inside pursuits, The Great Indoors post has you covered.

***PLAN AHEAD!***
* Secure parking before you come into the city with Parking Panda, a free, handy app that lets you reserve a space in a garage, so you don’t have to waste time searching for a spot.
* Plan for more Cherry Blossom Festival events with this round-up of the best ones for families
* There are egg hunts, Bunny visits, and spring fun galore over the next few weeks that will have your whole fam hopping with joy. This annual round-up of ’em has details.
* If you haven’t seen Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors at the Hirshorn, there is still a chance to score tickets (Mondays at noon!). This post lets you know what to expect and has tips on going with kids.
* Thomas the Tank Engine & friends are rolling into Baltimore for Day Out with Thomas at the B&O Railroad Museum. There’s a KFDC giveaway to win a family 4-Pack of tickets!

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Filed under 2017, All ages, Annual, Art, Date Night, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Farm, Festival, Free, Holidays, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Monuments & Memorials, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Park, School Event, Seasonal, Special Event, Sports, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Kids Activities, DC Kids Museums, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Family Activities DC, Family Friendly DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Indoor Activities, Indoor Playgrounds, Kid Friendly Activities, Kids Activities in Maryland, Kids Activities in Northern Virginia, Kids Entertainment in DC, National Cherry Blossom Festival, Spring 2017, Things to do with Kids in DC, Washington DC Events, Weekend April 1-2

January 13, 2017 · 9:31 am

The Weekend Round-Up: January 14-16

The holiday weekend means extra time for fun with the kids, and there are so many great ways to take advantage. Join an MLK inspired event, get artsy with DCPS creatives, discover travel & adventure options, check out a new museum exhibit, enjoy live entertainment, explore a national park for free, and much more. This round-up has all the details you need to plan. Happy Weekend!

Celebrate MLK
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
MLK Day may be on Monday, but there are events and activities that pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. throughout the weekend. Volunteer opportunities, library activities, the annual Peace Walk & Parade, art adventures, and live entertainment are some of the ways you can celebrate the day. This post has details on all of them.

Create DC!
Where: Union Market
When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Get creative with the DCPS Arts Team! Families are invited to a day of creative play alongside some of DC’s amazing artists, educators, and arts organizations. Create shadow puppets, enjoy the DC Youth Orchestra petting zoo, join a drum circle, watch Shakespeare Theatre Company perform a mini “A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream,” check out wearable art, and much more!

Travel & Adventure Show
Where: Washington Convention Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $16/adults, free for 16 and under
Get travel inspiration, experience culture, and have fun! A big expo like this might sound like a grown-up affair, but a bunch of cool pursuits will thrill the kids, too. Besides the hundreds of travel providers and destinations featured, there will be cultural performances, Segway rides, camel rides (!), a rock climbing wall, “worldly” photo ops, and kids games.

More Live Entertainment
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is on the Imagination Stage for its final weekend
* Encore Stage & Studio presents The Little Princess — by kids for kids
* Tweens can enjoy Bud, Not Buddy at the Kennedy Center
* The Alden Theatre presents both The Ugly Duckling and The Giver on Saturday
* Titanic is still afloat at Signature Theatre, and it’s getting great reviews
* Little ones will be delighted by Blue at Imagination Stage
* Rocknoceros is playing a special MLK Day show at Jammin Java
* Plan for a KidFree night out to see ROE, which just opened at Arena Stage

Bilingual Education Fair
Where: Francis Gregory Library
When: Saturday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: Free
DC’s first Bilingual Education Fair is poised to be a fun and educational Saturday morning! Thirty exhibitors, including 13 bilingual public schools, foreign cultural institutes, language app developers, and more organizations will take part. There will be both grown-ups and kids programs. Children can enjoy story time and activities in 7 different languages, while adults can listen to three mini-talks by a student, an American University professor, and a parent about why, how, and where in DC to raise a bilingual child, followed by 20 minutes of questions and answer.

Children’s Theater Festival
Where: Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre
When: Saturday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: $15/adult, $10/ages 5-13, free for 4 and under
Enjoy a full day of theater and so much more. Teatro de la Luna presents six hours of all kinds of artistic activities to delight the entire family. Coloring, reading, drawing, ballet, music, and dance performances will be part of the day’s festivities. And all of it is presented Bilingual.

Wee Ones Storytime
Where: Hooray for Books
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
Head to the book store in Old Town Alexandria for a reading just for little ones. At the weekly program, story time experts will read children board and picture books, sing songs, and perform and teach some fingerplays. Recommended for ages 0-3.

Rock On
Where: Newseum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $24.95/adult, $14.95/ages 7-18, free for 6 and under
One of my very favorite DC museums debuts a new exhibit on Friday. “Louder Than Words: Rock, Power and Politics” explore the ways music has influenced issues ranging from political campaigns to civil rights. See John Lennon’s bed-in guitar, Jimi Hendrix Woodstock Stratocaster guitar, stage costumes worn by the Village People, original handwritten lyrics by Bob Dylan, Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” jewelry from the VMA’s, video with some of rocks most influential musicians, plus artifacts related to the Vietnam War, Kent State University, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the Black Lives Matter movement. The Newseum is best for older children, and this KFDC post has a bit more about it.

Recreation on Ice
Where: Local ice rinks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
Warm up with a quintessential cold weather activity! Lace up the ice skates and get gliding at one of many outdoor rinks in the area. Enjoy art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; circle the rink at Washington Harbour; meander the paths at Canal Park; or do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Tyson’s Corner, Veteran’s Plaza, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on both alfresco and indoor ice skating options in the area.

All Aboard for a Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Depot of the W&OD Railroad
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Chug on down to Vienna to watch model train and trolley activities that realistically depict an actual railroad that existed in North Carolina in the 1950′s, the Western North Carolina (WNC). As described in Model Railroader magazine, every hill, town, building, locomotive, rail car, and industry in this layout is modeled after those places and things as they looked in that era. Well, almost everything. To satisfy popular demand, expect an occasional sighting of Thomas the Tank Engine (and a few of his friends) chugging around among the bigger steam and diesel locomotives. The Vienna Depot is located at 231 Dominion Road NE in Vienna, VA.

Open Studio: Dazzling Designs of the Qur’an
Where: Sackler Gallery
When: Saturday, 12 – 4 pm
Admission: Free
Discover The Art of the Qur’an at this free Open Studio for families, as you explore illuminated designs in manuscripts of the Qur’an. Take a family-friendly tour of the exhibition (offered at 12:30pm and 2:30 pm), then head to the ImaginAsia classroom to get creative. Tea and refreshments provided. All ages welcome with adult companions.

hiSTORYtime
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
Early learners ages 0-6 and their caregivers will have the chance to hear a story and participate in hands-on activities and crafts inspired by objects from the museum’s collection at this weekly program. Saturdays in January are all about clothes! Hear a reading that makes us think about the clothes we wear and how they can change over time. Then check out some clothes that are housed at the museum collection and enjoy fun, clothing-related crafts.

Wizard School Scavenger Hunt
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: $17.50/ages10-17, $19.50/adult
Join Watson Adventures on a unique Harry Potter-themed scavenger hunt for kids 10 & up! Follow in the footsteps of young wizards on a field trip to the National Gallery in search of art that echoes characters, places and enchanted objects in the famed Harry Potter books and movies. Wizards and muggles alike can play and enjoy this hunt. It’s not an addition to or variation on Harry’s adventures, but instead references to the books will provide a surprising bridge to many strange and wonderful works of art. It’s a great way to discover — or rediscover — the museum. Designed for kids and adults to do together, and kids must be accompanied by an adult. Advance purchase is required.

Watch the Wizards
Where: Verizon Center
When: Saturday, 8pm & Monday, 2pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Wizards will be hosting at home this weekend with games Saturday night and Monday afternoon. Catch them at the Verizon Center against the 76ers on Saturday, or watch some on-court action on MLK Day when they play Portland.

An Afternoon with Winnie the Pooh
Where: Northeast Library
When: Sunday, 3pm
Admission: Free
Join Northeast Library for an Afternoon with Winnie the Pooh, one of the world’s most lovable characters! Guests can enjoy a story reading, watch a short movie, and make a Pooh and friends craft to take home. Best for kids ages 5 and up. Snacks provided, too!

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Monday
Admission: Free!
It’s the first fee free day of the year for national parks, which means there’s no entrance fee where they usually charge to get in. Take advantage of complimentary admission and the day off from school; explore the just posted about Prince William Forest Park, go to Fort McHenry, hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, or visit Harpers Ferry.

DC, Inside & Out
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Looking for ways to stay active and entertained without a chill in the air? Then The Great Indoors post, a list of over 80 ideas for places to go inside, should have you covered. And if you prefer the outdoors no matter the weather, The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids, has a bunch of recommendations, too.