Tag Archives: DC Culture

October 13, 2026 · 12:00 pm

Five Things: October 13, 2026

Yosemite trip inspired by our then-4th grader’s National Parks Pass

1. Did you know that 4th graders can get a FREE National Parks Pass that opens the door to a year of outdoor adventures? Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, all 4th grade students and family members can enjoy free admission to national parks and other federal recreation sites across the country. Whether it inspires a big trip to some of our major national parks or gets you to visit more local spots, it’s an awesome way to discover places and see some of America’s best natural beauty. It’s good to use through August 31. If you have a 4th grader, learn more and get your pass here.

2. Along the same lines… 4th and 5th graders are eligible for the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass, which unlocks a full year of outdoor activities across Pennsylvania. This one is not free — it costs $69 per year — but it gets one included experience at each location participating in the program. This includes lift tickets at ski resorts, white water rafting, zip lining and aerial parks, train excursions, cave tours, mini golf, and more. Note that offers vary by location, so adults (and siblings) will often have to pay admission. But if you’re an adventurous family, already like to hit the nearby PA slopes, or want a little incentive to discover new places, this is a great opportunity if you have a 4th or 5th grader! Learn more about the program here.

3. Next Thursday, October 22, Politics and Prose is hosting a book event especially for young readers, dreamers, and families seeking an unforgettable literary experience. An Evening of Sparkle & Magic will be a world of wonder, imagination, and bedtime adventure. Featuring three children’s book authors, two of them local, and stories for kids ages 4-8, the family-friendly celebration will have live interactive story readings, Q&A sessions with the creators, opportunities to get personalized book sign-offs directly from the authors, and more. This will take place 6-8pm at the Chevy Chase location (5015 Connecticut Ave NW). Admission is $23.18, and proceeds will benefit several charities, including Big Fluffy Dog Rescue, Cat Tails of Prince William, and the Hikmat Foundation, which supports girls’ education in rural India.

4. NY Times’ updated list of The Best Books of the Year (So Far). I’m currently reading this one.

5. Tale as old as time… lol

PS: Don’t forget there’s a giveaway going on for a chance to win tickets to see Beatrice Likes the Dark at Adventure Theatre!

Five Things: October 6, 2026

1. Did you know there’s now a museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial? The Lincoln Memorial Undercroft opened over the summer and offers a new, fascinating perspective of the iconic landmark, taking you underground to explore the history, construction, and stories behind it. You can actually see the massive concrete columns and excavated space beneath the memorial along with interactive exhibits and displays about the design, build and backdrop to important moments in history. It’s open daily 9am – 9pm March – October, and 9am – 8pm November – February. Timed-entry tickets are required to visit. You can reserve them in advance for a $1 service free. Same-day tickets are free and available first-come, first-served beginning at 8:45am at a kiosk between the Korean War Veterans Memorial and Lincoln Memorial.

2. The Capitals‘ Home Opener is tomorrow, October 7, and all are welcome to attend a special open practice at MedStar Capitals Iceplex in the morning ahead of the game. (A little last minute, and most kids are in school, but if you happen to be free, take advantage!) Fans can watch the team’s morning skate, soak in the excitement of the Home Opener, and enjoy giveaways from 9am – 12pm. Stay updated on practice start times here. And if you’re hoping to see the game, there are still tickets available. You can try to find a deal on resale seats, too.

3. The National Building Museum is hosting a School’s Out Workshop next Monday, October 12, on the day off from school. From 10:30am – 12pm, kids ages 6-10 can investigate how Indigenous Peoples in North America create and interact with the built environment using natural resources, cultural knowledge, and environmental awareness in both the past and present day. Cost is $20/child, $10/accompanying adult. Register in advance.

4. Save your spot for this event that captures the Halloween spirit: On Thursday, October 22, the Czech Embassy is hosting its 4th annual Strašidla – Czech Legends and Mythical Creatures, a special evening introducing children to characters and traditions from Czech folklore. They’ll learn about mythical creatures such as the Water Goblin, Noonday Witch, Headless Knight, and Forest Demon before venturing on a fun, slightly spooky walk through the Embassy’s “haunted forest.” The evening will also feature hands-on, bubbling experiments presented by the Science Guys. The event is intended for ages 5 to 10, and there are sessions at 6pm and 8pm. Admission is FREE! RSVP required: czechembassypr@gmail.com.

5. The little treat-lover’s guide to Georgetown that you definitely want to keep in your back pocket for when you’re in the neighborhood (or want to get a yummy little treat).

Five Things: September 30, 2026

1. Have you heard about Mott’s Market on Capitol Hill? If you’re in the neighborhood (living or visiting) and looking for a spot to get an easy bite, coffee, cocktails, or an essential grocery item, this is a spot to keep in mind. The newly reopened shop is the result of neighbors (our family included!) coming together to buy and preserve a beloved convenience store. It has quickly become a community favorite, offering dry groceries, meats, and produce, plus freshly made food and snacks that can be enjoyed at tables out front or on the nice breezy patio out back. (It’s also going to be one of the Porch Fest hosts on October 10!)

2. Right across the street from Mott’s is the Pastry Pedaler, a sweet little stop for freshly baked treats every other Saturday. Sandi, the baker (and mom of two little girls), offers a variety of traditional German pastries that you can order in advance and pick up from a stand in her front yard. The next pick-up is this Saturday, October 3, and while it’s mostly sold out and the order window closes soon, you can follow her and get in on the next batch. Do it soon — it’s become quite popular with the line snaking around the corner!

3. And since I’ve highlighted two Capitol Hill spots to get a bite to eat, here are more awesome things to do to make a day of it in the neighborhood with kids:
* Eastern Market Flea Market on weekends
* Library of Congress (don’t miss The Source)
* Folger Shakespeare Library
* U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
* Labyrinth Game and Puzzles
* East City Bookshop
* Many parks and playgrounds
* Lots of family-friendly places to eat

4. Sasha, a looongtime Harry Styles fan, and I saw his show in NYC this past weekend — and it was pretty incredible! If you’ve got a Harry fan (or you are one), and want to splurge on a treat/enjoy a little fall getaway, resale tickets are available for the rest of his residency at Madison Square Garden (and they aren’t crazy outrageous). Not to mention, autumn in New York is splendid! This post has a couple hotel recs and some other things to do there.

5. Can’t stop watching this performance — it’s even better than the original video.