Tag Archives: DC Indoor Play

April 8, 2016 · 8:32 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 9-10

Play ball!

More Styles On Sale Now at Tea Collection

Don’t let a little spring snow thwart your family fun. There’s plenty happening over the next few days to ensure a good time no matter what the weather. Happy Weekend!

Cherry Blossom Celebration
Where: American Art Museum
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Smithsonian’s American Art Museum welcomes you to a celebration of Japanese culture and the arrival of the cherry blossoms. A taiko drumming performance kicks off the afternoon, followed by other traditional Japanese music and dance, face painting, and cherry-blossom themed crafts. Colleagues from the Freer|Sackler can help you make your own Japanese fan. Create a koinobori windsock at one of our crafting tables or check out the spring book corner with our friends from MLK Jr. Memorial Library.

Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival
Where: Southwest Waterfront, 600 Water Street SW
When: Saturday, 1-9pm
Admission: Free
The annual fireworks show at the Southwest Waterfront is one of the highlights of cherry blossom season. It’s an all-day and part-evening affair with free live music and family-friendly festivities, including water-related activities, cultural experiences, and delicious foods. The grand finale will begin at 8:30pm when the starbursts of fireworks light up the night sky.

The Nats are Back!
Where: Nationals Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Baseball season is in full swing again, and the Nats are home for their first weekend of regular season games. Catch them against the Marlins on Saturday at 4:05 or Sunday at 1:35 — stay after the latter for Kids Run the Bases. For tips on doing Nats game without breaking the bank, see this post. And don’t forget to sign up little fan for the Jr. Nationals Kids Club to get all kinds goodies and discounts.

Buds
Where: Rock Creek Nature Center
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
Join friends from Casey Trees for tree-focused story time interspersed with songs and a craft project. Each family will leave with a list of “scavenger hunt items” while exploring the trails on their own after the program. Recommended for ages 18 months – 4 years.

Run of the Mill
Where: Peirce Mill, Rock Creek Park
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
See the 2,000-lb millstones convert corn to corneal using good old-fashioned renewable energy of water. Miller Jeanne and the Friends of Peirce Mill invite you to discover DC’s only surviving gristmill in action. Be sure to explore the exhibits at Peirce Barn next door and hit the nearby trails, too! Read more about the historic site in this KFDC post about our visit there last fall.

Play in the Zone
Where: ZavaZone
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $19.50
The brand new Indoor Adventure Park dedicated to ages 5-105 calls itself a “gamechanger.” With ninja courses, ropes courses, trampolines, climbing challenges, zip lines, and more under one soaring roof, guests have their pick of active fun. Disclosure: We have yet to check it out ourselves, but it looks and sounds pretty awesome.

Swedish Explorations
Where: Sweden House
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
The Swedish Embassy in Georgetown has focused more on kids this year, and their new exhibition Next Level Craft shows it. Presenting works by more than 40 crafters, artists, and designers from all over Sweden, plus its own soundtrack and music video, it’s a showcase of handiworks and imagination, from traditional to modern. The exhibit will be open every weekend, with guided tours available. Be sure to stop in the library with kids books and toys, and join a story time session on Saturdays at 2pm.

Children’s Walking Tour of Penn Quarter
Where: Starts at District Architecture Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $5/child
Discover buildings! This walking tour for children will take a hands-on approach to learning about architecture in the vibrant Penn Quarter neighborhood during a walking tour led by architect Mary Kay Lanzillotta, FAIA. As we walk along the streets, participants will learn new terms like keystone, cornice, pilaster, pediment, portico, and many more architectural features that make up buildings.

Explore the Universe
Where: Air and Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
This annual event focuses on how different cultures see the sky. Learn about telescopes and do some daytime observations (weather), see a planetarium show, watch The Chromatics out on an AstroCapella performance, enjoy story time, and more!

Enchanted Forest Cherrybration
Where: Clarks Elioak Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: $5 (some activities are extra)
Let little princesses dress up for this visit to the storybook-themed farm (you can read more about it in the list about outdoor outings). Clark’s Elioak will be celebrating Howard County’s “Cherrybration” Days with treats fit for young royalty and plenty of pink pizzazz. Children in a family will get a free hayride if at least one person in the family is dressed as a pink princess. Kids can also dress up in gowns on hand at the farm for a photo opportunity with “Princess Cherrybella.” A Truly Pink Treasure Hunt in the Enchanted Forest Maze will round out the weekend activities.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* See Adventure Theatre’s delightful production of James and the Giant Peach
* Reserve free tickets to see Frog Prince, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National performance
* Marsha and the Positrons are playing the Saturday show at Jammin’ Java
* Catch a performance of Beauty and the Beast at The Puppet Co.
* And Bedtime Bunnies is the featured Tiny Tots show there
* Little ones will love Boxes, Boxes, Boxes at Imagination Stage
* NextStop Theatre’s production of Snow White begins this weekend
* Love That Dog will be on stage at BlackRock Center for the Arts
* Los Dos Burritos, a bilungual show for all ages will be at Wall of Books on Saturday and Colony Club on Sunday at 11am both days.

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. Have lunch with live animals at Huntley Meadows, take a wagon ride at Riverbend, join a princess tea party at Hidden Oaks, star gaze at Burke Lake, and more! Go here to see all of your options, this weekend and beyond, and register for activities.

Kids in the Kitchen
Where: Children’s National Medical Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
The Junior League of Washington is hosting its annual healthy eating and fitness activity fair for children. Designed for ages 3 to 13, the event showcases ways for kids to eat smart and make healthy lifestyle choices. The lineup of activities will include exercise classes like Zumba, CrossFit and yoga, cooking fun with professional chefs, demos from nutrition experts, and more. There will also be crafts, games, goodie bags, and exciting raffle prizes, all to celebrate and promote nutritional literacy. Note that while this is a free event, advance sign-up is required.

DC United vs. Vancouver Whitecaps
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 5:30pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary
Kick it at a soccer game as the DC United host the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday evening. Be sure to stop by the Fan Zone in section 222 for a variety of kids activities. For some extra goodies just for young fans, join the Kids Club!

Full STEAM Ahead: Awesome Astronomy
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Families are invited to visit the Annmarie artLAB for hands-on investigations and challenges. This month’s astronomy-themed session features fun, engaging activities that will help kids explore, observe, ask questions, and make predictions about the world around them as they create and play! Perfect for all ages, and walk-ins welcome. Be sure to extend your visit to explore the rest of Annmarie, including the art-filled grounds and magical Fairy Lolly — more about it here (cost $5/adult, $3/child).

Family Workshop: Paper Trails
Where: Sackler Gallery
When Sunday, 1–4pm
Admission: Free
In celebration of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, explore the importance of paper across Asian artmaking traditions. With educators from the Freer|Sackler and the National Museum of Women in the Arts, use traditional Japanese papers and bookmaking tools and techniques to create your own artist’s book. Recommended for ages 6–12 and accompanying adults.

The Inside Scoop
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
With un-springlike weather on the way, this post with over 70 ideas for indoor adventures around DC will help keep your crew sheltered and entertained all weekend long.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, Art, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Festival, Free, Indoor Play, Library of Congress, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Seasonal, Sports, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Indoor Play, DC Museums for Kids, DC outdoors, Fun Things to do with Kids in Maryland, Fun Things to do with Kids in Northern Virginia, Fun Things to do with Kids in Washington DC, Spring 2016, Weekend April 9-10, Weekend in DC

April 1, 2016 · 7:07 am

The Weekend Round-Up: April 2-3

Go fly a kite at the Washington Monument

Weather may factor in to your picks for activities with the kids this weekend, but there’s fun to be had no matter what the conditions outside. Happy Weekend!

Go Fly a Kite!
Where: Washington Monument Grounds
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm (Rain date: Sunday, 12pm)
Admission: Free
The Blossom Kite Festival is, in my opinion, the best event during cherry 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. 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 intricate works of art actually outnumber your basic diamond. And anyone can go fly their kites, so be sure to bring one. 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.

Marshmallow Harvest & Egg Hunt
Where: Great Country Farms
When: April 2-3, 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. Guests can also join a post-Easter egg hunt (by age – see the schedule) 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.

Kite Fun Day
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park
When: Saturday, 10:30am – 12pm or 1-2:30pm
Admission: $10/child (reservations required)
Make a kite and watch it soar at Frying Pan’s special event on Saturday. All materials will be provided, and advanced registration is required. Plan to hang out and enjoy the may 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. Take a wagon ride at Riverbend, celebrate cherry blossom season at Green Spring Gardens, volunteer for the Watershed Cleanup Day, build a bat house, join a nature play group, and more! Go here to see all of your options and register for activities.

Saturday Family Jazz Session
Where: Strathmore
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: $10
Jumpstart a love for jazz with classes that nurture talent and spark musicality! Junior jazz aficionados can spend Saturday mornings singing, playing, and preparing for a lifetime of jazz appreciation at this fun, creative, kid-friendly series featuring classes with multi-instrumentalist and local jazz legend Seth Kibel and renowned jazz singer Rochelle Rice. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. All attendees, regardless of age, must have a ticket.

The Outwin 2016 Family Day
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm 
Admission: Free
Families are invited to celebrate a day of storytelling while learning about contemporary portraiture. Enjoy portrait workshops led by artists featured in the newly opened exhibition The Outwin 2016. Additionally, Grammy-nominated artist Christylez Bacon will demonstrate how musicians use song as a narrative, and the Bowen McCauley Dance company tells their stories through dance.

Forklift Garden Party
Where: Community Forklift
When: Saturday, 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 pleasureatt heir Annual Garden Party. Even more, along with the sale, the event will feature gardening demonstrations, experts, and vendors; activities for kids; local bands; and a farm-to-fork food truck.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* See Adventure Theatre’s delightful production of James and the Giant Peach
* Reserve free tickets to see the Ballet Theatre of Maryland on Saturday Morning at the National Theatre
* Superman 2050 is on the Family Theater stage at the Kennedy Center Friday through Sunday
* Catch a performance of Beauty and the Beast at The Puppet Co.
* And Bedtime Bunnies is the featured Tiny Tots show there
* Little ones will ove Boxes, Boxes, Boxes at Imagination Stage
* The American Youth Chorus will perform their newest concert Songs of the Earth, Sea, & Sky on Saturday evening
* The U.S. Navy Commodores are kicking off National Jazz Month at Alden Theater on Saturday
* The Washington Ballet presents Hamlet at the Kennedy Center

Light City Baltimore
Where: Baltimore Inner Harbor
When: Through Sunday, 7pm – 12am
Admission: Free
See Baltimore’s Inner Harbor lit up with a temporary light art exhibition, a 1.5-mile light art walk with 28 illuminated artworks. The installations range from 15-foot sculptures to projections on the sides of buildings (and even on roofs!) and explore questions of social justice, sustainability and climate change, and history. This will be accompanied by 100 musical and street theater performances and 50 concerts, all free and open to the public.

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 2016 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).

April Maker’s Market
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
The Annmarie Maker’s Market is THE place to find all things handmade, homemade, or homegrown, including crafts, hanging baskets, organic skincare products, farm fresh produce, cut flowers, baked goods, batik and fleece clothing, handmade soaps and candles, herbal teas, ornaments, folkart, handmade gifts, and more! Delight in the local treasures to be found here! While you’re there, explore the amazing grounds, arts center, and Fairy Lolly, too ($5/adult, $3/child). More about it here.

Symphony for Babes
Where: Downtown Silver Spring Civic Center
When: Saturday, 10am & 11:30am
Admission: $12
Take wee ones to the symphony! The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents this Music Box Interactive Concert especially for babies and toddlers ages six months to three years with the theme Birtdie Melodies. Go early — 30 minutes prior the concert the lobby fills with a range of musical, creative and fun activities for little ones and families.

Family Game Day & Boutique Pop Up
Where: The Escape Lounge
When: Sunday, 11am – 6pm
Admission: Free (Escapes at regular prices)
You have your choice of adventures at The Escape Lounge this Sunday! Shop a special Yummi Yummi Goodness Boutique Pop Up offering up to 40% off children’s couture. There will also be board game competitions and puzzles, raffle drawings for amazing prizes, and beverages and light snacks. Of course, you can also opt for an Escape the Classroom or Escape the Oval Office experience, which I highly recommend (read more about it here)! 10% of proceeds from the event will be donated to the National Children’s Alliance in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Sumo-Sized Sunday
Where: North End Shaw
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
The Shay and Atlantic Plumbing, mixed-use retail and residential projects in North End Shaw, are celebrating cherry blossom season by welcoming three world sumo wrestling champions — Yama, Byamba, and Takeshi — for Sumo-Sized Sunday. Attendees will have the chance to not only watch these world-renowned wrestlers engage in some friendly competition, but also try their hand at taking down one of the classically trained fighters. This will all take place in the lot adjacent to 945 Florida Avenue NW.

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Filed under All ages, Animals, Annual, Art, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Farm, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Park, Seasonal, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Cherry Blossoms 2016, DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Indoor Play, DC Museums for Kids, DC outdoors, Easter Events, Fun Things to do with Kids in Maryland, Fun Things to do with Kids in Northern Virginia, Fun Things to do with Kids in Washington DC, Spring 2016, Weekend April 2-3, Weekend in DC

March 29, 2016 · 7:08 am

Get 20% off Spring Birthday Parties at Gymboree DC!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by DC Kids Play LLC, however, I only promote programs, services, and events that I truly believe in and/or think would appeal to KFDC readers.

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Filed under Babies, Birthday Parties, DC, Discount, Indoor Play, Preschoolers, Sponsored Post, Spring, Toddlers

Tagged as Children's Birthday Party Venues in DC, DC Indoor Play, DC Kids Activities, Gymnboree DC, Gymnboree Discount, Party Places for Babies and Toddlers

March 25, 2016 · 8:33 am

The Weekend Round-Up: March 26-27

Whether you’re kicking off or winding down Spring Break this weekend, you’ll be getting started or finished on a super fun note. Easter, cherry blossoms, and spring are big highlights, and this round-up is stocked with fantastic ways to celebrate and enjoy all of them. Happy Weekend!

DC in Bloom
Where: Several Locations
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The city is at its prettiest this time of year when the cherry trees are in bloom, and they should be at their best this weekend. The National Mall and Tidal Basin are sure to be teeming with blossom oglers, but braving the crowds is worth it, in my opinion. If you’re planning to partake in the blossom experience over the next couple of days (or anytime, for that matter), be sure to check out these tips for viewing the famous flowers before you go.

Cherry Blossom Family Day
Where: National Building Museum
When: Saturday, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The National Building Museum is hosting their annual event to celebrate the cherry blossoms. And they’re doing it with a nod to the National Park Service’s Centennial Anniversary. The day will feature hands-on fun and games focused on parks, planning, landscape design, and architecture. Activities will include folding origami masterpieces, designing a memorial for the National Mall, constructing a tatebanko diorama, meeting DuAro (Kawasaki’s robot), trying on traditional Japanese clothing, and learning more about the National Park Service’s milestone celebration.

Bird Egg-stravaganza
Where: Woodend Nature Sanctuary
When: March 26, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $10/child
Join the Audubon Naturalist Society for a nature-themed egg hunt at their Bethesda headquarters. Children can search for eggs along the Woodend Nature Sanctuary trails. Afterwards, they can cash in their eggs for prizes, participate in crafts, and enjoy other nature themed activities.

Bunnyland
Where: Butler’s Orchard
When: Saturday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: $9/child, $7/adult
One of the more popular spring festivals in the area, Butler’s has all the trappings for seasonal fun: bunnies, eggs, and other Easter-related treats to get young guests in the holiday spirit. Attractions include hayrides down the Bunny Trail, egg hunts, the Rubber Ducky Derby, giant slides, and a small petting zoo. Face painting and pony rides are also usually offered for an extra fee. Concessions are available, and there are also plenty of picnic tables if you prefer to pack a lunch.

Adventure & Easter in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by age
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is now open for the season! Kids as young as 5 years old can experience fun and adventure on the ropes courses and zip lines in the park’s aerial forest, the largest in North America. Children ages 5-6 and an accompanying adult have access to two of the easier courses. Older kids can do even more. A Sunday bonus: They’re hosting an Easter Egg Hunt with eggs hidden all over the park, every one of them with prizes inside, including free climbing tickets. Guests can find up to three colored and one gold egg per paid admission. It’s a pricey venture, but worth it, especially for a special occasion. Read more about Sandy Spring in this post about one of our experiences there.

A Presidential Egg Hunt
Where: Madame Tussauds
When: Saturday, 8am, 8:30am, & 9am
Admission: $25/adult and three children
If your kids are early risers, then keep this event in mind: A fun and educational “eggs-ploration” through American History at the wax museum! Tons of eggs will be hidden throughout the Presidents Gallery, and once children have collected the empty eggs, they can then trade them in at the end of the hunt for an Easter gift bag full of goodies. Guests can also enjoy a meet & greet with the Easter Bunny, an on site petting zoo, plus Easter crafts and face painting! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased online.

Champagne Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt
Where: Mandarin Oriental Washington, DC
When: Sunday
Admission: $74/adult, $35/child
If you want to get fancy for the holiday, celebrate Easter with an extravagant Champagne brunch and a waterfront egg hunt on a beautiful sprawling garden, plus visits from the Easter Bunny at one of the city’s swankiest hotels. Enjoy a lavish buffet-style meal at Muze with multiple live cooking stations spread throughout the restaurant. Children can hunt for eggs hidden throughout the hotel’s stunning garden overlooking the Tidal Basin, accompanied by the Easter Bunny. There will also be fun-filled activities in the hotel’s supervised Little Fans Clubroom.

More Egg-cellent Celebrations
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by event
Many places around the area are hosting egg hunts, Easter bunny visits, and more spring fun to celebrate Easter and the season. Even if you’re not big on the holiday, there are attractions beyond bunnies and candy-filled eggs for the whole fam. See this post for a list of them.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* See Adventure Theatre’s delightful production of James and the Giant Peach
* Catch a performance of Beauty and the Beast at The Puppet Co.
* And Bunny Business is the featured Tiny Tots show there
* Little ones will ove Boxes, Boxes, Boxes at Imagination Stage
* Jammin’ Java is hosting a Spring Fling featuring local kids fave Rocknoceros on Saturday morning
* The Washington Ballet presents Hamlet just opened at the Kennedy Center
* This weekend is your last chance to see Romeo & Juliet at Synetic THeatre, beautiful, wordless production that is perfect for a date night.

Astronaut Academy
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Saturday, 10:30am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free (but parking is $15)
Experience the Air & Space Museum’s new Smithsonian TechQuest: Astronaut Academy. The free alternate reality game challenges you to become an astronaut-in-training for a future trip to Mars. Choose what role you will play on the mission; engage in fun interactive activities; and explore the science, technology, engineering, and math skills you will need as a member of the next generation of space travelers. Along the way, you’ll learn about some of the Museum’s fascinating artifacts. Read more about the adventure on the website. Best for upper elementary and middle school visitors and their families.

Spring Fest
Where: McLean Community Center
When: March 26, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $5, free for 2 and under
Spring Fest is a special event that includes self-guided arts and crafts projects, entertainment and the opportunity for your children to get a professional photo with Bunny. Remember to bring your Easter basket for our parent/child Easter egg hunt. Registration is required for all participants, and sign up soon, as space is limited. Recommended for ages 3-8.

Lolly Palooza
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $5/adult, $3/child
Annmarie has been celebrating the seasonal re-opening of their magical Fairy Lolly playground with extra-special activities all week, and the fun will continue this Saturday. Drop in sometime 11am – 4pm — on Monday for music making fun. Check in at the Murray Arts Building, then head over to the Fairy Lolly for magical play. Afterwards, stop by the artLAB and the Nature Nook for even more activities! Get a glimpse of Annmarie in this post about one of our experiences there.

Environmental Film Fest
Where: Various locations
When: Through Saturday
Admission: Varies by film
Films from across the globe are being screened around the DC-Metro area for the final days of the 24th annual Environmental Film Festival. And there are a couple family-oriented flicks among them on Saturday. Little movie-goers can watch a series of animated shorts at Southwest Library and Oddball will screen at Avalon Theater. There are even more films that kids will likely enjoy (and learn from) and others to consider for a grown-up. View the website for showtimes and details.

All Aboard!
Where: Cabin John & Wheaton Regional Parks
When: Through April 1
Admission: $2
Ride the rails through the woods and grounds of two great local play areas. The miniature trains at Cabin John Regional Park and Wheaton Regional Park are open for the season! During Spring Break, from now through April 1, they’ll be taking passengers everyday 10am – 6pm. After that, they’ll be open weekends only until June 1, when daily rides are offered again.

Get Out!
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
It’s going to be a glorious DC weekend, so get out and take advantage of activities outside. Take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, visit animals, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with tons of ideas for outdoor fun.

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Filed under All ages, Animals, Annual, Art, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Farm, Festival, Free, Holidays, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Movies, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Park, Seasonal, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

March 18, 2016 · 8:16 am

The Weekend Round-Up: March 19-20

She got game

The weather on the way may just redefine March Madness. But with all these great picks, the chance of a little snow won’t upset your family fun. 😉 Happy Weekend!

Eggcellent Events
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by event
Egg hunts, Easter bunny visits, and more spring fun to celebrate Easter and the season have started around the area. Even if you’re not big on the holiday, there are attractions beyond bunnies and candy-filled eggs that will have the whole fam hopping with joy. Find a list of them and plan for upcoming events here.

Okinawa Matsuri Family Days
Where: Textile Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Discover Okinawa at this all-ages celebration! Try your hand at origami, traditional bingata painting, and other art activities. Enjoy children’s stories, dance performances, and karate demonstrations. Learn about the geography and natural environment of the island, sample Okinawan treats, and take home a local souvenir. Check the website for the schedule of events each day.

Annie!
Where: National Theatre
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket price vary
The classic musical is here in DC — and it is fantastic! Sasha and I caught a show earlier this week, and we both adored it. Having only seen the movies previously, it was a treat to see the story brought to life on stage. If you want to do something special with the kids, definitely consider this theatre outing!

Kites of Asia Heritage Family Day
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Get ready for the Blossom Kite Festival as you celebrate spring and Asian Heritage. Talk to kite experts, see pan-Asian kite displays, marvel at indoor kite flying, make your own kite, and maybe even take a dance lesson! This year’s Kites of Asia Heritage Family Day will have a special focus on Nepal and India.

Environmental Film Fest
Where: Various locations
When: Through March 26
Admission: Varies by film
More than 150 films from across the globe are being screened around the DC-Metro area during the 24th annual Environmental Film Festival. And there are several family-oriented flicks among them this weekend. Little movie-goers can watch a series of animated shorts at Deanwood and MLK, Jr. Memorial Libraries. Tiny Giants 3D will play at the AMC Lowes in Georgetown. And there’s a film incorporated into the National Gallery’s monthly program for kids (see below). There are even more films that kids will likely enjoy – and learn from. View the website for showtimes and details.

Maryland Day
Where: Throughout Anne Arundel County
When: Friday – Sunday, times vary by activity
Admission: Activities are free or just $1
Rediscover Maryland’s history with family and friends during a fun-filled festival highlighting the uniqueness of the Four Rivers Heritage Area, as local cultural and heritage sites offer special activities and tours. Stroll through downtown Annapolis or visit Historic London Town and the Annapolis countryside to enjoy educational tours, costumed re-enactors, art exhibits, kids’ activities, and more. The weekend will also include a tour of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s headquarters, a new exhibition at the Mitchell Gallery at St. John’s College, and a fun scavenger hunt for history in the City of Annapolis.

James and the Giant Peach
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $19.50
Catch the latest production at the Glen Echo theater: When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion which results in a tremendous peach – and launches a journey of enormous proportions. Featuring a wickedly tuneful score by the TONY Award-nominated team of Pasek and Paul and a curiously quirky book by Timothy Allen McDonald.

More Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Reserve your free tickets for Upcycled Cinderella, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National show
* Catch a performance of Beauty and the Beast at The Puppet Co.
* And Jellybean Babies is the featured Tiny Tots show there
*Boxes, Boxes, Boxes recently opened at Imagination Stage
* Mr. Jon & Friends is the Saturday morning entertainment at Jammin’ Java
* Enjoy a grown-up night out at Shakespeare Theatre Company’s new production of Othello

Family Workshop: Afghan Fighter Kites
Where: Sackler Gallery
When, Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 1 pm and 2–4 pm
Admission: Free
In the exhibition Turquoise Mountain, venture into an Afghan caravanserai, complete with artisan stalls and architectural elements, and hear stories about the people, places, and heritage of Afghanistan. Then, return to the classroom to work with an Afghan American kite maker to create your own kite. This program is designed for children ages 6–12 and adults to enjoy together. Registration opens February 15 at 12 pm.

Monkey Kingdom on Film
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Saturday, 10:30am & Sunday, 11:30am
Admission: Free
See a movie at the art museum. Set among ancient ruins in the lush jungles of Sri Lanka, Monkey Kingdom documents the life of Maya, a Toque Macaque, and her newborn, Kip. As Maya navigates the social hierarchy of her extended family, she strives to keep Kip healthy and safe. When the troop of monkeys is forced from their home on Castle Rock, Maya unexpectedly takes the lead. Narrated by Tina Fey, this stunning live-action documentary captures the beauty and peril of the macaques’ yearlong journey. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

Animal Close-Ups
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $10/ages 5-12 (find a discount here)
Experience two fascinating exhibits in one outing at the museum downtown. Photo Ark, a gorgeous collection of portraits of the world’s animal species, spotlights conservation through the lens of photographer Joel Sartore. And you can zoom in on CROCS through an exhibit focusing on crocodilians. Components like captivating images, interactive displays, and live creatures are compelling for all ages.

Date Night: Shakespeare Sans Words
Where: Synetic Theater
When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Admission: Tickets start at $20
It’s probably hard to imagine a wordless Shakespeare production, but Synetic Theater’s version of Romeo and Juliet is just that, and it’s phenomenal. Innovative, fluid choreography set against dramatic scenery of gears in a clock, all to a unique soundtrack of ticks, tocks, and chimes makes for a gorgeous, mesmerizing production. Words aren’t necessary when a familiar story is told in such a beautifully expressive way. If you’re a fan of the bard or just appreciate superb theatre, I highly recommend this show. Teens and up could enjoy it, but it makes for a great grown-up night out.

18th Century Farm Spring Clean-Up
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Play a role in getting the Claude Moore Colonial Farm ready for the 2016 season and Opening Day on April 1. On this 18th century working farm, trails and fields need to be cleared, fences rebuilt, and wood split, moved and stacked. There is also work in the greenhouse, cleaning animal pens, and other spruce-up activities. This is a great activity for groups and families, and volunteers get a complimentary picnic hot dog lunch. Bring work gloves and dress for the weather.

JumpIt Pass Open House
Where: Kidville Falls Grove
When: Saturday, 4-6pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the launch of JumpIt Pass as they host an open house along Kidville Falls Grove. The event will feature art, play, fun, and more with Danielle Sara Photography, BabyProofing Montgomery, Crystal Cakes and Kidville. RSVP preferred but not required. Kidville Falls Grove is located at 14925 Shady Grove Road in Rockville.

Beyblade Back Outside
Where: MLK Park, Silver Spring
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 4pm
Admission: Starts at $5
Calling all Bladers! Spring is in the area, so the Beyblade Tourney is returning outside. It will take place beside the pavilion just above the basketball courts. For more details on tourney times and more, see the website.

World Storytelling Day
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Sunday, 1-4
Admission: $5/adult, $3/ages 6-17, free for 5 and under
Visiting artist Ariana Ross will take families on an interactive art and story adventure of the “Wiggling Giggling Bookworm,” with lots of dancing, singing, wiggling, and giggling as she helps everyone find their “inner bookworm.” The program also includes creative writing, drawing, and music-making as guests construct their own stories. If you have a big imagination, love to tell tales, and want to have fun learning, then this is the family program for you. Ariana’s performance begins at 1pm and lasts 45 minutes, with a 45 minute family workshop immediately following. After the event, families are invited to stay for the “Discovering Spring: a Poetry Reading & Open Mic” program, 2:30-4:00pm, or drop in the artLAB, Nature Nook, and Fairy Lolly. Read more about Annmarie here.

Purim Carnival
Where: Agudas Achim Congregation, Alexandria
When: Sunday, 10:30am – 1:30pm
Admission: See details below
Join the Agudas Achim Congregration to celebrate Purim. The carnival will feature all your favorite Purim games, prizes, face painting, arts and crafts, a moon bounce and more! Popcorn, cotton candy, and lunch for purchase. Tickets: All you can play and bounce for $25. Individual game/bounce tickets: $.075 per ticket or 25 tickets for $15. Lunch tickets are $5.

Are You Ready for Some Futbol?
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Sunday, 5pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
College hoops may be getting all the attention, but soccer is on the sports radar, too. The DC United kicks off the new season at home with a match against the Colorado Rapids on Sunday. And if you need to catch up on the local soccer scoop, check out the DC United website for a refresher.

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 — all of them tried and tested by yours truly and crew.