Tag Archives: DC Outoors

November 4, 2016 · 9:40 am

The Weekend Round-Up: November 5-6

A beautiful dose of nature for these city kids at Prince William Forest Park

Autumn is is hitting a sweet spot this weekend with a combo of vibrant fall hues and gorgeous weather — a perfect backdrop for all of the fun, enriching events and activities happening around the DMV. Here are details on all of them, and I highly recommend some time outdoors, too. Happy Weekend!

Leaf Peep on the Trail
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Take in the brilliant color spectrum of autumn and get a little exercise to boot on a family hike. From right here in the city to country locales, you’ve got your pick of places where you can enjoy the fall foliage and some time outdoors. This post about good area hikes with kids started in the early KFDC days, and with many new recommendations added since — Prince William Forest Park, the most recent — there are lots of great recommendations for happy trampers.

Back, East
Where: National Gallery of Art – East Building
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
After a long renovation, the galleries in the East Building of the National Gallery of Art recently reopened! Enjoy it all at this Community Celebration, a special fun and art-filled weekend featuring sketching, performances, face painting, and a photo booth. Activities are for all ages, unless noted otherwise. Auditorium programs are on a first-come, first-seated basis. And it’s all free!

Kids Euro Festival
Where: Around the DC-Metro
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
This weekend is the last to enjoy free artistic adventures of the European variety, thanks to the annual Kids Euro Festival. Musicians, storytellers, dancers, and puppeteers are just a few of the many, many exciting acts that are performing at a variety of venues through November 6. See what’s on the schedule over the next few days.

Ikea Cook and Eat Your Way
Where: Ikea Stores
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Cook and eat your way Ikea! This event taking place at stores across the country welcomes all for a day of fun, food, and family. There will be all kinds of giveaways, special offers, workshops — enjoy a Swedish American breakfast for just $1.50, sample Swedish treats, get kitchen design tips, and more!

Dia Day los Muertos Family Day
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the Day of the Dead with the American Art Museum! Enjoy traditional Mexican folk dance performances throughout the day, add your own artwork to their mural, and leave your handmade ofrendas (offerings), including paper marigolds, calaveras (skull masks), and paper monarch butterflies on the Day of the Dead altar.

DC Author Festival
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Meet your favorite local author, snag a signed book, and hear authors speak on variety of topics at this festival that showcases the talents of area writers! And a KFDC tip: Go at 3pm to hear Rebecca Green of Not-So-SAHM speak and sign her fabulous book Banish Boredom!

hiSTORYtime
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Saturday, 11am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Drop by the American History to listen to delicious stories about food! Then, children can participate in food games and crafts, and touch cookware from the collection. This new program aims to boost early literacy, while introducing young visitors ages 0-6 to objects in the museum’s collection. It will also take place on November 12 and 19.

Rocking Romeo and Juliet
Where: Folger Shakespeare Library
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Shake up your Saturday with a workshop at the Folger! These programs occurring on the first Saturday of every month, encourage families to experience Shakespeare’s language together. This session, dive into the Bard’s most famous love story of bitter feuds, banishment, betrayal, and doomed lovers. Ages 5-7 go 10-11am, and 8-14 from 11am – 12pm. Register here.

Children’s Flea Market
Where: McLean Community Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Scope out the bargain prices at this annual flea market! Children’s toys, clothes, games, and other items will be sold by those who know them best…the kids! Whether you plan to get your holiday shopping done early or want to fill the toy chest with goods, get some good deals and help support this entrepreneurial venture by local youths.

Wizard School Scavenger Hunt for Harry Potter Fans
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: $17.50/ages 10-17, $19.50/18 and up
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. The hunt is 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. This hunt is designed for kids and adults to do together, but all-adult teams will be allowed to compete separately. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Advance purchase is required. Questions? Call 877-9GO-HUNT.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Reserve free tickets for Jon Sands’ Slam Poetry for Kids, this week’s Saturday at the National show
* Join InterAct Story Theatre for African drumming and dancing at Highland Elementary School on Saturday!
* Peter and the Wolf is at Arts Barn for one show only
* Catch Looking for Roberto Clemente at the Atlas Performing Arts Center
* Where Words Once Were opens at the Kennedy Center (get discount tickets)
* The Olney Theatre presents Mary Poppins
* Hansel & Gretel are the current stars on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Animal Crackers is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theater
* This weekend if your last chance to catch the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* See Miss Nina’s Rap, Rock, and Read Show at Jammin Java on Saturday morning
* The Okee Dokee Brothers are playing a Sunday show at Alden Theatre
* ANNIE Jr. opens at Summit Church today for a two weekend run
* It’s opening weekend for Oliver Twist at Creative Cauldron
* See the superbly acted The Little Foxes at Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)

Dog Pool Dip
Where: Washington Hilton
When: Saturday, 12-3pm
Admission: $5 suggested donation
Four-legged friends and their people are welcome for the Washington Hilton’s annual dog pool dip, when the community is invited to bring their dogs for a swim after the pol closes for the season and before it’s drained and winterized. This event benefitting the Humane Rescue Alliance has seen upwards of 150 dogs splash in the large outdoor 75-80 degree heated, saline-treated pool. There is also a children’s wading pool for smaller dogs who want to join the fun as well! The current forecast for this Saturday is 63 and SUNNY! Are you interested in joining the pawrty?

Side Yards
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 6-10pm
Admission: Free
The third annual sideshow extravaganza, Side Yards, is back at The Yards Park! An evening of all-ages quirky amusement and wonder beckons DC to let loose while taking in the sights and sounds of the East Coast’s top sideshow performers. Stages of entertainment will showcase the unusual talents of contortionists, magicians, jugglers, escape artists, snake handlers, fire breathers, sword swallowers and more attention-grabbing acts.

Shanghai Nights
Where: George Mason Center for the Arts
When: Friday, 8pm & Saturday, 2pm & 8pm
Admission: $30-50
The Shanghai Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China will delight the whole family with this thrilling exhibition! Trampoline artists and aerial acrobats fly through the air with the greatest of ease, while jugglers, contortionists, and martial artists demonstrate the exacting precision of their skills. Through jaw-dropping feats of acrobatics, impeccably timed stunts, and beautiful costumes, performers merge the hustle and bustle of contemporary Shanghai with China’s rich cultural heritage to produce this celebration of their native land.

Maryland Emancipation Day
Where: Montgomery County Parks
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Celebrate Maryland Emancipation Day, which commemorates the adoption of the 1864 Maryland Constitution that abolished slavery in the state of Maryland. join Montgomery Parks for free activities take place all weekend long, such as hikes on the Underground Railroad Experience Trail, living history demonstrations, live musical performances, and tours of historic sites.

Fall Back to Bethesda
Where: Rock Creek Mansion
When: Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: $10
Celebrate fall with fun for the whole family while raising critical funds for NIH Charities, Bethesda Fire Department and MetroBethesda Rotary Foundation. Kids pre-K – 8th grade can enjoy unlimited inflatables, face painting, and interactive FUN from Activity Rocket, an dall can enjoy food, music, games, and the beautiful Rock Creek Mansion setting.

Dancing with My Baby
Where: NOVA Natural Birth Center
When: Sunday, 10:30-11am
Admission: Pay what you can
This program allows families the opportunity to connect through movement, dance, yoga, and the expressive arts through simple dance steps and routines set to music. Families can enjoy a fun way to support the parent-child bond while making memories together. Classes are offered on a “Pay What You Can” basis. Register online here.

Disc Golf
Where: Calvert Road Park
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Hit the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a nice fall day outdoors with the family. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses, many of them set up in scenic places, are lovely this time of year. This post has info about one in College Park, and there are also great courses at Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg and Burke Lake Park in Burke.

Farm Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Just because you don’t need to pick out a potential Jack o’ lantern, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun on the farm. Many locales have way more to enjoy than just pumpkin patches. Whiz down slides, bounce on giant jumping pillows, visit farm animals, and loads more. This list of fall fests has details to get started — Ticonderoga, Cox, Clark’s Elioak, and Great Country Farms are all good bets.

Hiking & History
Where: Harper’s Ferry
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free ($10 if you park in lot)
Get some fresh air and exercise as you take in autumn hues and historic sites. Harpers Ferry is an easy day trip or weekend destination from DC, and fall is a great time to go. For more about a visit there, see this KFDC post.

O Say Can You See
Where: Fort McHenry
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/adult
Venture up to Baltimore to explore the birthplace of our National Anthem! Fort McHenry makes for a very interesting, informative, and enjoyable outing for all ages. Engaging exhibits range from historical objects and structures to multimedia displays and interactives. And the grounds located right on the Chesapeake are lovely to stroll on a nice day. Read about our recent experience there.

The Weekend Round-Up: October 28-30

A traditional Día de los Muertos performance at the American Indian Museum

Halloween events, autumn celebrations, Euro-style entertainment, a day of horsing around, art adventures, plus great fall weather that offers loads of possibilities for family outings…. all options for fun over the next few days. Happy Weekend!

Wicked Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Break in the costumes and prep for Halloween on Monday all weekend long. There are so many events and activities that celebrate the spooky spirit. Some are detailed below, and this post has details on even more events where the tricks and treats are happening.

Día de los Muertos
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free
I always say this museum hosts great festivals, and Día de los Muertos doesn’t disappoint. The celebration of the dead is one of the most lively you’ll experience this Halloween. The performances alone are fantastic with traditional dances, stirring music, and dramatic costumes — you might even get some ideas for your own get-up. The event also includes hands-on activities, artist demos, and more Day of the Dead fun.

All Aboard for Halloween
Where: Cabin John & Wheaton Regional Parks
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $6
Take a Halloween-themed train ride through the woods. Opt for the not-so-scary mini-train at Cabin John (recommended for kids under 8) or go for a spookier journey at Wheaton (recommended for 8 and up). Enjoy more activities while you’re there – see details on the event pages.

Halloween-Themed Storytime
Where: Tivoli’s Astounding Magic Supply
When: October 29, 11am
Admission: Free
Join 826DC at Tivoli’s Astounding Magic Supply Company for a scary (but not too scary) storytime. Join for age-appropriate readings of Poe’s “Tell Tale Heart” or one of their favorites, “The Hairy Toe,” while you shop for last minute Halloween costumes at the store full of magically fun items. Recommended for ages 6-12.

Fall-O-Ween Country Fair
Where: Port Discovery
When: Saturday, 10am – 3:30pm
Admission: $13.95/ages 2 and up
Dress up the little ones in their favorite costumes and join Port Discovery’s annual festival. Enjoy not-so-scary, family friendly programs and performances including science-themed activities, crafts, live entertainment, arts & crafts, face painting by Landres SFX and more!

Kids Euro Festival
Where: Around the DC-Metro
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Consider this your passport to two weeks of artistic adventures, as the 9th Annual Kids Euro Festival brings continental entertainment right to DC. This is the first weekend of the event that will present more than 125 free performances all around the metro area. Musicians, storytellers, dancers, and puppeteers are just a few of the exciting acts that will perform at a variety of venues through November 8. See what’s on the schedule over the next few days.

Annmarie After Hours
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Friday, 6-9pm
Admission: $5/adult, $3/child,free for members
The Arts Center in Calvert County is hosting a special family-friendly after-hours event on Friday in celebration of the opening of the Games: From marbles to Minecraft exhibit. Start your weekend with an evening of game-inspired art, a great variety of board games, and appetizers by Mission BBQ. It’s a gathering where great art and great food come together for a relaxing and fun evening out! Read more about Annmarie Sculpture Gardens in this KFDC post.

Kids’ Day at the Washington International Horse Show
Where: Verizon Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy a meet and greet both ponies and horses at a Washington International Horse Show event especially for children and families to share the joy of horses with the DC community and teach kids and their families about horses and equestrian sport. Participate in more than a dozen hands-on educational and fun activities, including pony rides, the Animal Planet Horseless Horse Show, the Horse Stars Hall of Fame interactive exhibit, horseshoe painting, face painting, pony brushing lessons, plus giveaways from Paisley Pony magazine and Georgetown Cupcake. Klinger, the famous horse from the U.S. Army Caisson Platoon, often attends as a special guest to greet the children. There’s even a pony kissing booth with Leo The Magnificient, the mini pony!

Food History Festival
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Head to the museum on the Mall for free day of hands-on learning, live demonstrations, talks, and stories exploring the past, present and future of food and community in America. Talented chefs, local organizations, experts, museum curators, students, and more will be on hand to spark conversation, lead activities, and dig into food history with museum visitors of all ages. TNote: events in the Warner Bros. Theater require free registration.

Glen Echo Fall Frolic
Where: Glen Echo Park
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free, but small cost for some activities
It’s a safe and fun Halloween event with something for everyone! Daytime activities for families will include pumpkin decorating, arts & crafts, face painting, trick-or-treating, and a costume parade around the Park.

Pottery on Wheels
Where: Hill Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The Hill Center is hosting their annual Pottery on the Hill show featuring some of the country’s top potters. And this year, they’re also welcoming the Pottery on Wheels! truck, where kids — and their parents — can participate in the Make a Cup, Take a Cup program. Work with a potter to make a cup on the wheel, then trade it in for one that’s already been glazed and fired — all for free!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Saturday is your last chance to see Flowers Stink, a adorable show about appreciating nature at the U.S. Botanic Garden
* Reserve free tickets for Traveling Lantern’s Ben Franklin, this week’s Saturday at the National performance
* Catch a Halloween SPOOKtacular concert at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop
* The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is on the Imagination Stage
* Join Mr. Jon and Friends for a Halloween party at Jammin Java
* Catch the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* Little ones will love Aquarium at the Atlas
* Hansel & Gretel are the current stars on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Imaginary Friends is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theater
* The Olney Theatre presents The Diary of Anne Frank
* See the superbly acted The Little Foxes at Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)
* Ruthless, The Musical is running at Creative Cauldron

Fall Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the season at one of many area festivals. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities galore to help folks relish in the fun autumn brings. This post has details on autumn fun happening around the region.

Movie at the Museum: The Little Prince
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: Free
In this animated update inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s beloved novella, an overscheduled girl befriends an eccentric aviator. He regales her with tales about the adventures of an unusual boy who lives on an asteroid. English–language version. Recommended for ages 7 and up.

Science & Engineering Showcase
Where: National Geographic
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Science enthusiasts of all ages will love the 2016 Broadcom MASTERS Science and Engineering Project Showcase, the premier science fair competition for middle school students! Join the Top 30 sixth, seventh and eighth grade scientists and engineers at the National Geographic Society as they share their original projects with students, teachers, parents, and members of the public.

Harry Potter Marathon
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $13.50/youth, $50/8-movie pass
Have you missed a Harry Potter movie or just want to go on a wizard watching binge? Head to the Chantilly arm of the Air & Space Museum, where for the first time ever, you can experience all eight Harry Potter movies in IMAX! Plus, you can also catch an IMAX exclusive peek of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which hits IMAX theaters this November. Everyone is invited…even muggles.

Parents Paint, Kids Create
Where: Arris at Yards Park
When: Sunday,
Admission: $30/adult, $15/child
Parents, bring your kids for an afternoon of watercolor painting, cocktails for adults, and mocktails for kids! The class will include fun fall-themed line art and watercolor instruction by artist and illustrator Marcella Kriebel and beverages by mixologist Gina Chersevani. Adults must be 21+ and must accompany their child.

Out and About
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Looks like it’s going to be one of those weekends that beckons you outdoors. Take a hike, hit a playground, do some fossil hunting, explore a garden…The Best Places to Spend a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids has lots of suggestions to make the most of a nice day outside.

The Weekend Round-Up: October 21-23

Toddler Owen stakes his claim on a past fall visit to Homestead Farms

With the leaves beginning to turn colors, seasonal celebrations in full swing, Halloween creeping up, and crisp, cool weather in the forecast, this weekend practically screams autumn. Immerse in it all at one of many events that embrace fall or just enjoy the season as a backdrop to another fun activity — you’ve got your pick of ’em. Happy Weekend!

Boo at the Zoo
Where: National Zoo
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 5:30-8:30pm
Admission: $20/members, $30/non-members
The National Zoo’s annual not-so-spooky haunt is one of DC’s most popular Halloween events for the kiddie crowd. With more than 40 treat stations, animal demonstrations, keeper chats, live entertainment, and decorated trails, this frightfully fun evening is a treat for the whole family. Costumes encouraged!

Air and Scare
Where: Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15 until 6pm
See the spooky side of air and space at the Udvar-Hazy Center’s 11th Annual Air & Scare! Arrive in costume for safe indoor trick-or-treating. Participate in creepy crafts, spooky science experiments, and other Halloween-themed activities. Bring the tiniest visitors by the Tot Zone to play dress-up and hear a story. Fun for the whole family!

More Wicked Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
This time of year is always a scream with loads of ways to get the Halloween party started early. From mini train rides through the woods to haunted tours to festivals inspired by the holiday, details on where the tricks and treats are happening can be found in this annual post.

Fall Fun on the Farm
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the season at one of many area festivals on the farm. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities galore to help folks relish in the fun autumn brings. This post has details on many fall festivals happening around the region.

Welcome, REI!
Where: DC REI, 201 M Street NE
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free
Join REI for 3-day Block Party to celebrate the Grand Opening of the DC Flagship store! Doors open Friday at 10am with some big band fanfare (hint, hint) and the party will continue all day. Saturday and Sunday they’ll expand the bash to a main stage with tons of live entertainment, Outdoor School classes, s’mores, screen printing, a climbing wall, beer gardens, and more. All three days the first 500 people in line receive a custom DC Camelbak bottle with a gift card, plus there will be free breakfast and coffee each morning. Everybody who attends all weekend can help REI decide how to split up $100,000 among 5 regionally focused outdoor non-profits.

National Trademark Expo
Where: U.S. Patent & Trademark Office
When: Friday, 10am – 5pm & Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
This free, family-friendly event is designed to educate children, small business owners, and the general public about trademarks and their importance in the global marketplace. The Expo features children’s workshops, an kids’ area with arts & crafts and other hands-on activities, costumed characters, a scavenger hunt. Outside, a Ford Model T, UPS Truck, the The Oscar Meyer Weinermobile, and Mr. Peanut Nutmobile will be on display. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is located at 600 Dulany Street in Alexandria.

East of the River Book Festival
Where: Rocketship – DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Readers of al ages can enjoy a literary event that highlights the work of self-published authors and small presses — the perfect place for diverse books. The day will be full of dramatic presentations from readers, storytellers, poets and word-artists. Attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favorite book character or author, so get your costume ready (it is the week before Halloween)! Rocketship – DC is located at 2335 Raynolds Place, SE.

Under the Big Top Family Day
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
The circus is in town, right in the Kogod Courtyard! Smithsonian American Art Museum takes you under the Big Top for an afternoon of dazzling feats with performers from Acrobatic Conundrum (hope you’re not afraid of heights!), plus carnival games, bag of popcorns, circus animal-inspired mask making for guests.

Hirshhorn Fall Fest
Where: Hirshhorn Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 6pm
Admisson: Free
Gather with friends and family for a museum-wide festival celebrating the return of fall, DC’s rocking music scene, and Hirshhorn’s immersive new exhibition, Ragnar Kjartansson. Bands will play throughout the day, unique tours of the exhibit will be offered, and a bier garden will welcome the 21+ crowd.

Fall Harvest Family Days 
Where: Mount Vernon
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $17/adults, $8/kids 6-11, children 5 and under are free
Celebrate the autumn season at George Washington’s old digs! Watch as a replica of one of Washington’s boats launches into the Potomac River with a costumed crew. Enjoy autumn activities, including wagon rides, wheat treading in the 16-sided barn, 18th-century dancing demonstrations, a straw bale maze, farrier (blacksmithing), corn husk dolls demonstrations and early-American games and music. And Potomac River sightseeing cruises are half-price this weekend only!

Outdoor Movie Night
Where: Hemlock Overlook Regional Park
When: Friday, 7:30pm
Admission: Free
Join Adventure Links for their October Halloween Movie Night series under the stars. Every Friday night in October they’ll be showing a Halloween movie on an outdoor movie screen — this week it’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Bring a blanket and enjoy a free movie! You can see their site, meet the staff, and even sign your kids up for summer camp.

Sweden Festival
Where: House of Sweden
When: Saturday, 12-4:30pm
Admission: Free
House of Sweden welcomes the public to help them celebrate 10 years as the flagship of Sweden’s public diplomacy in the United States – it was in 2006 that they opened their doors as the flagship of Sweden’s public diplomacy in the United States . The festival will feature concerts, interactive family fun, Swedish food, artist talks, games and more. And it all takes place at the beautiful Georgetown Waterfront, where house of Sweden is located.

Pint-Sized Pumpkins
Where: Brookland Pint
When: Saturday, 9am
Admission: $5
It’s breakfast designed with little ones in mind! This event features a free Pint Sized Breakfast for the kids, storytime with Barnes & Noble, an interactive performance by Only Make Believe, and Pint Sized Pumpkin Painting. Seating is first come, first serve. Your $5 ticket purchases your child’s Pint Sized Pumpkin; the rest of the morning’s activities are included with it. Limited quantity is available, so get yours pumpkin today!

Game on, Greater Washington
Where: FedEx Field
When: Saturday
Admission: Free (but some activities are extra)
The American Diabetes Association is teaming up with the Washington Redskins for this one-of-a-kind festival featuring activities for the entire community, from rappelling and zip lining, to biking and fun runs, and everything in between. Including a ton of family and kid friendly events (kids’ zone with glitter tattoos, inflatable bounce and slide and so much more), the adventure-filled day is designed to raise funds for diabetes education, programs, research and advocacy. Registration fees vary depending on activity but the Kids’ Zone and entrance is free, and it’s an awesome opportunity to check out the Redskins stadium like never before, all while having fun for a good cause.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* This weekend is your last chance find Knuffle Bunny at Adventure Theatre
* Catch the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* Reserve free tickets for Discovery Theater’s Fabluous Fairytales, this week’s Saturday at the National performance
* The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is on the Imagination Stage
* See (and smell?) Flowers Stink, a collaboration between the U.S. Botanic Garden and the Kennedy Center
* Hansel & Gretel are the new stars on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Imaginary Friends is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theater
* The Olney Theatre presents The Diary of Anne Frank
* See the superbly acted The Little Foxes at Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)
* Enjoy The Best Haunted House Ever, Encore Stage & Studio’s theatre by kids for kids
* Make it a date night to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at the Kennedy Center
* Ruthless, The Musical is running at Creative Cauldron

Last Call for Merriment
Where: Revel Grove in Crownsville, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 7pm
Admission: $22/ages 16 and up, $10/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under
It’s the final weekend of the Maryland Renaissance Festival, the annual faire that recalls medieval times with an English Tudor village full of fun and entertainment for the whole family. I highly, highly recommend going if you haven’t been yet. And I recommend getting tickets online in advance — they sold out last weekend and had to turn folks away. Huzzah!

Disney on Ice Presents Follow Your Heart
Where: EagleBank Arena
When: Through Sunday
Tickets: $15-80 (look for a discount)
Follow your heart straight to adventure at Disney On Ice! Characters from many of the beloved films make appearances — and perform lots of thrilling feats — on ice. Inside Out‘s emotions, Dory and friends, Elsa and Anna, are just some of the fan faves who will delight and wow.

Fibre Arts Festival
Where: Glover Park-Burleith Farmers Market
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Local fiber farms and yarn spinners will be attending the Glover Park-Burleith farmers’ market with hand spun yarn from Maryland! Plus the opportunity to use an antique loom and purchase hand knitted hats, scarves, pet toys and more! There will also be 2 sheep for a mini petting zoo! Perfect for people of all ages – there will be live music, tons of fresh local produce, sustainably raised meat and eggs, fresh cut flowers, baked goods, plus breakfast and lunch options. Additionally, there will be bike repairs and sales and free yoga from 10am to 11am!

Earth Celebration and Re-Use It Sale
Where: Woodend Nature Sanctuary
When: Saturday, 8-11am
Admission: Free
The Audubon Nature Preschool brings the gift of wonder to children and you can help support it at their annual Earth Celebration and ReUse It Sale. Go on family nature walks, shop for gently used children’s items, enjoy naturally delicious homemade treats and a morning cup of coffee, and make connections with Nature Preschool staff and families. Read more about Woodend in this KFDC post.

River Park Yard Sale
Where: Eastern Market in front of Rumsey Pool
When: Saturday, 8am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Score some deals (and treats!) at the annual River Park Nursery School’s Yard Sale and Bake. Find great bargains on kids items, including baby gear, clothes, sports gear, puzzles, games, toys and delicious baked goods while supporting a Capitol Hill nursery school! Proceeds support River Park Nursery School, which has a 50-year tradition of providing quality instruction that encourages individual growth and development. Rumsey Pool is located at at 635 North Carolina Ave. SE.

Dance for the Floor
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: $25
Dance the night away with Joe’s Movement Emporium! Dance for the Floor: A Joe’s Movement Emporium Fundraiser, with a goal of raising money to install a new hardwood dance floor in the theater.The evening will feature three studios worth of Hand Dance, salsa and swing dancing with a “floor-raising” program in the theater featuring Joe’s dancers of all ages. Admission includes dance lessons, open dancing, and light fare Purchase tickets online or at the door.

Ride with Recess Outings
Where: Capitol Hill
When: Sunday, 10am & 4pm –
Admission: $40/On a Recess bike, $30/BYOBike
Join Recess outings on a bike ride! Opt for To Market, To Market at 10am, designed for anyone up for a leisurely exploration of DC, with world-class markets serving as the bookends along the route as you meander from Eastern Market to Union Market and back again. You can also try Underrated Anacostia, an 8-mile ride from Capitol Hill then along the river highlighting the beautiful Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Get more details about both rides here.

Celebrating French Animation
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Sunday, 11:30am
Admission: Free
Let little imaginations soar with a selection of animated shorts by French filmmakers. Kids can discover the surrealist poetry of Robert Desnos creatively visualized in a series of nine films, including The Sun of Bagnolet Street, Once Upon a Leaf, and Paris. Recommended for ages 7 and up, all films are in French with English subtitles. The program lasts approximately 55 minutes.

Friends Community School Fall Fair
Where: Sunday, 12-4pm
When: Friends Community School
Admission: Free
Friends Community School welcomes the public to enjoy a day of fun activities at their annual Fall Fair. The event will include student-run old-fashioned games, a moon bounce, a toy and book sale, entertainment, and plenty of good food prepared by local restaurants and school families. The fair will take place rain or shine. The school is located at 5901 Westchester Park Drive in College Park, MD.

Yummy Yummie Pop-Up
Where: The Escape Lounge
When: Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
Score some adorable kids clothes this Sunday! The Escape Lounge on H Street is hosting a Yummy Yummy Goodness Pop-Up Shop, featuring lots of fall and winter specials. Stop in to browse & buy and, perhaps, stay for an Escape the Classroom challenge — Sunday only, get a FREE escape game for children with a $50 purchase from the pop-up! Read more about the Escape Lounge in this KFDC post.

Get Out
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by locale
Looks like we have a beautiful fall weekend ahead! Take advantage of the crisp, sunny weather with some time outdoors — go on a hike, explore a garden, play in the trees, find a new playground, go fossil hunting, tour a historic site. This post has an extensive list of places and ideas for al fresco fun.

Seedling - Design your own Halloween costume

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Filed under All ages, Animals, Annual, Art, Date Night, DC, Discount, Eats, Educational, Exhibit, Fall, Farm, Festival, Free, Fundraiser, Halloween, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, School Event, Seasonal, Shop, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as Autumn in DC, Best Activities in DC with Kids, DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Fall Festivals, DC Family Activities, DC Museums for Kids, DC Outoors, Fall 2016, Fall Festivals, 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, Halloween 2016, October 2016, Things to do Indoors in DC, Weekend in DC, Weekend October 22-23

October 14, 2016 · 9:25 am

The Weekend Round-Up: October 15-16

The forest lights up for evening climbs at the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring

Wowza, this weekend is jam-packed with fun things to do! Awesome museum programs, loads of live entertainment, opportunities to check out cool vehicles, fall festivals, nature celebrations, a Harry Potter movie binge, early Halloween fun, and so much more. No matter what you do, be sure to throw some outdoor time in the mix, because the forecast practically demands it. Happy Weekend!

The Big Build
Where: National Building Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Any kid (or adult, for that matter) with an interest in building and construction will dig the National Building Museum’s big annual event celebrating all things, well, building. The Great Hall will be full of different stations where guests of all ages aren’t just welcome, but encouraged, to try their hand at all kinds of construction and design techniques alongside experts demonstrating their craft. There will opportunities to build a brick wall, carve stone, and hammer nails, as well as build a LEGO skyscraper, do some virtual reality welding, and create an architectural masterpiece. It’s all totally free and, as we know from several years’ experience, totally fun!

Truck Touch
Where: Suburban Nursery School
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: $5, free for under 2
It’s scary how much kids love big vehicles—and Halloween! Combine the two at Suburban Nursery School’s 9th Annual Truck Touch for a chance to get up close and personal with fire trucks, police cars, off-road vehicles, construction rigs, delivery trucks, emergency vehicles, busses, and other cool things that GO! Additional activities include pumpkin decorating, bake & snack sale, bouncy fun, truck crafts, and face painting. Enjoy *spooktacular* eats from local food trucks, too.

Outdoor Movie Night
Where: Hemlock Overlook Regional Park
When: Friday, 7:30pm
Admission: Free
Join Adventure Links for their October Halloween Movie Night series under the stars. Every Friday night in October they’ll be showing a Halloween movie on an outdoor movie screen — this week it’s Hocus Pocus. Bring a blanket and enjoy a free movie! You can see their site, meet the staff, and even sign your kids up for summer camp.

18th Century Autumn Market Fair
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $8/adults, $3/ages 3-12, free for 2 and under
Enjoy the splendor of autumn at the Claude Moore Colonial Farm’s Autumn Market Fair. Watch colonial Virginia tradesman such as the blacksmith and try crafts such as spinning and dyeing. Learn to dip candles or turn a piece of wood on the carpenter’s lathe. See heritage breed animals including turkeys, pigs and chickens. Enjoy music, games, and dancing as well as interacting with colonial family members in costume and character. Savor spit roasted chicken, sausages, hearty breads and cheeses, roasted olives, pies and other desserts. Colonial Tavern offers cask ale, beers, wine and mulled wine as well as authentic ginger ale. Period food, beverages, and wares available for purchase. It’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family!

Bonsai & Beyond
Where: U.S. National Arboretum
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm & 6-9pm
Admission: Free (fee for evening)
It’s the 40th anniversary of the the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum at the National Arboretum, and they’re celebrating with the Aki Matsuri Autumn Festival: Bonsai & Beyond and a traditional Japanese moon viewing. Festivities will include tram tours of the Asian Collections, fun family activities, a kimono fashion show, bonsai book signings, Asian food trucks, and a demonstration by Japanese bonsai master Tohru Suzuki. The evening moon viewing (otsukimi) will include haiku readings, origami, music by Japanese koto players and moon-shaped dumplings. Register for the evening event, which has a fee, and order a obento dinner, here.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Find Knuffle Bunny at Adventure Theatre
* Catch the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* Reserve free tickets for Valerie Branch’s The People We Meet and the Friends We Keep!, this week’s Saturday at the National performance
* Join InterAct Story Theatre for ‭The Legend of Pufferfish Pat: A Tall Tale for Mad Times‭, their first performance in Season 2 of the Wheaton Family Theatre‬‬‬‬
* The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is on the Imagination Stage
* See (and smell?) Flowers Stink, a collaboration between the U.S. Botanic Garden and the Kennedy Center
* Hansel & Gretel are the new stars on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Merlin’s Magic is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theater
* The Olney Theatre presents The Diary of Anne Frank
* See the superbly acted The Little Foxes at Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)
* Enjoy The Best Haunted House Ever, Encore Stage & Studio’s theatre by kids for kids
* Make it a date night to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at the Kennedy Center
* The Man Who Planted Trees is playing at Alden Theatre
* Ruthless, The Musical is running at Creative Cauldron
* Take the whole fam to The Miraculous, Magic Balloon at Synetic Theatre
* Building Better People Productions brings We Got It! to the Den at Anacostia Arts Center
* Get into All the Way Live!, an interactive Hip Hop show at the Kennedy Center
* Hear Ghoulishly Good Music at the Atlas Performing Arts Center

Wildlife Festival
Where: Patuxent Wildlife Refuge
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Discover groundbreaking research conducted at Patuxent! Activities include live animal displays, children’s crafts, tram tours, research exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours of the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center to see endangered whooping cranes and much more!

Bull Run River Cleanup
Where: Hemlock Overlook Regional Park
When: Saturday, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Join Adventure Links for a Bull Run River cleanup day to help keep the waterway free of trash and to keep Fairfax County’s watershed healthy. The whole family can participate and enjoy a morning outdoors helping to better the environment!

Fall Fun on the Farm
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the season at one of many area festivals on the farm. Enjoy Fall Harvest Days and Carnival Fun at Frying Pan Farm Park. Play all day at Great Country Farms’ Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival. Get into Fall Adventures at Summers Farm. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities galore to help relish in the fun autumn brings. This post has details on many of the fall festivals happening around the region.

Zip through the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: Friday, 3-10pm & Saturday/Sunday, 8am – 10pm
Admission: Varies by age
Get the best vantage point for leaf peeping — up in the trees — and have a total blast! At the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, kids as young as 5 years old can experience fun on the ropes courses and ziplines in the park’s aerial adventure park 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. It may seem like a pricey venture, but it’s so worth it. Trust me. Read more about this KFDC fave here and here.

Make STEM Magic
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
Join the Air & Space Museum for Making STEM Magic, a new program that introduces young visitors to engineering in a fun and creative way. This month, learn more about electricity as you design circuits and get a charge out of their October design challenge!

American Girl Day
Where: National Museum of the U.S. Navy
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Learn about how women have influenced naval history and enjoy some American Girl-inspired fun. With a Great War theme as the WWI Centennial approaches, there will be activities featuring that era. There will also be American Girl products — dolls, books, clothing, games, even furniture — to browse and buy. And AG book author Valerie Tripp will be on hand to sign autographs and talk with visitors about the American Girls. Note that non-military must check in at the Washington Navy Yard’s Visitor Center (11th and O Street) and present a government-issued photo ID.

Hispanic Heritage Month Family Day
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage in the United States, from South American folk traditions to the fusion of contemporary Latino and North American art and music. Dance to live music from across Latin America, enjoy original works of art from local artists experimenting with portraiture, and create your own works of art inspired by Hispanic artists and sitters featured in the National Portrait Gallery.

World of Wheels
Where: Dematha High School
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Prince George’s County is hosting its 5th annual World of Wheels for CASA, a touch-a-truck event and family festival. All kinds of cool vehicles will be on site and open for guests to explore. Adding to the excitement will be food, music, and an assortment of activities for kids of all ages, including moon bounces, games, crafts, face painting. And Game Truck mobile gaming will be there from 10am-12:30pm! Proceeds from the event will help to raise funds to recruit and train more volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. Dematha High School is located at 4313 Madison St. in Hyattsville, MD.

Raise a Flag for Your Next President!
Where: Textile Museum
When: Saturday,
Admission: Free
How do you show your support for your favorite presidential candidate? Join the Textile Museum at the height of today’s historic presidential election for an all-ages family day that explores how people have demonstrated their allegiance to candidates past. Enjoy presidential storytelling, play campaign games, and create your own campaign flag inspired by the rare nineteenth-century flags and patriotic textiles on view in the exhibition. It’s a perfect time for kids (and adults) to discover this wonderful off-the-beaten-Mall-path museum.

STEM Career Fair
Where: University of the District of Columbia
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Kids can check out careers in STEM! Science, Engineering and Mathematics Link Inc. (SEM Link) is hosting its 1st Annual DMV Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Career Fair and Exhibition at UDC. The fun, family event gives K-12 students an opportunity to explore STEM careers and meet and interact with professionals in the fields. UDC’s Student Center is located at 4200 Connecticut Avenue, NW. While free and open to the public, pre-registration is strongly suggested.

Harry Potter Marathon
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $13.50/youth, $50/8-movie pass
Have you missed a Harry Potter movie or just want to go on a wizard watching binge? Head to the Chantilly arm of the Air & Space Museum, where for the first time ever, you can experience all eight Harry Potter movies in IMAX! Plus, you can also catch an IMAX exclusive peek of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which hits IMAX theaters this November. Everyone is invited… even muggles.

Air Show Baltimore
Where: Inner Harbor & Martin State Airport
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Nearly two dozen aviators including the Navy’s famed Blue Angels flight demonstration team will take to the skies over Charm City this weekend, as part of Maryland Fleet Week and Air Show Baltimore October. There’s more on the ground, too — an open house free festival, including meet-and-greets with pilots, will take place at Martin State Airport in Baltimore County. Approximate airshow hours are 1-4pm over the Middle Branch of Baltimore’s Harbor adjacent to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Key viewing areas for the air show include Fort McHenry and areas in and around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.

World of Montgomery Festival
Where: Montgomery College, Rockville
When: Sunday, 12- 4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the rich cultural heritages of the DC area at the 8th annual World of Montgomery Festival with multicultural music, food, dance, exhibits and hands-on activities. Indonesia, Germany, Korea, the Caribbean, India, Ukraine, El Salvador, Ethiopia, China, and more nations will represent their cultural traditions in the International Village organized by KID Museum. Two entertainment stages, ethnic food vendors, and festivities for all ages ensure a fun, enriching day for the whole family.

Aidan Montessori Book Fair
Where Politics & Prose/Comet Ping Pong
When: Saturday, 9am – 10pm & Sunday, 9am – 8pm
Admission: Free
Buy books and eat pizza to benefit a local school! Aidan Montessori School is holding its annual book fair event at Politics & Prose Bookshop and Comet Ping Pong on Saturday and Sunday. Twenty percent of book sales at Politics & Prose will go to the school if you mention “Aidan” at the register, and 15% of sales at Comet Ping Pong & Pizza will go to help the school if you write “Aidan” on your check. You can also purchase books to donate to Aidan classrooms and to Bright Beginnings, a local organization serving under-housed families. Multiple opportunities to give back!

Merriment and More
Where: Revel Grove in Crownesville, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $24/ages 16 and up, $10/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under
There are only a couple of weekends left to enjoy the bounty of merriment at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. The annual faire recalls medieval times with a village full of fun and entertainment for the whole family. This is one of my very favorite events in the DC area, and it could very well become one of yours, too. Huzzah!

Leaf Peep on the Trail
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
The leaves are just beginning to turn, plus it’s going to be a gorgeous autumn weekend, so get out and enjoy on a family hike. From right here in the city to country locales, you’ve got your pick of places where you can enjoy the foliage, the lovely weather, and some time on the trail. This post about good area hikes with kids will help make for some happy trampers.

Soul Stroll
Where: Congressional Cemetery
When: Sunday, 6-9pm
Admission: $20/adult, $10/child
Get into the Halloween spirit on Capitol Hill as you explore Congressional Cemetery and the stories of those laid to rest there on these special guided after-hours tours. Congressman, carpenters, suffragists, and bootleggers are among the graveyard residents, and they all have a unique tale to tell.

More Wicked Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Get the Halloween party started with activities and events that celebrate the spooky spirit. This post has details on where the tricks and treats are happening.

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Filed under All ages, Animals, Annual, Date Night, DC, Eats, Educational, Exhibit, Fall, Farm, Festival, Free, Fundraiser, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Park, School Event, Seasonal, Theatre, Virginia, Volunteer, Weekend

Tagged as Autumn in DC, Best Activities in DC with Kids, DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Fall Festivals, DC Family Activities, DC Museums for Kids, DC Outoors, Fall 2016, Fall Festivals, 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, October 2016, Things to do Indoors in DC, Weekend in DC, Weekend October 15-16

October 7, 2016 · 9:38 am

The Weekend Round-Up: October 8-10

Even superheroes love Ren Fest

Most of us have an extra day to fill with fun this weekend, and that won’t be a problem with so many awesome events and activities happening around the DC-Metro. Autumn festivals, post season baseball, loads of live entertainment, cool museum programs, even a chance to hang out in the Obama’s backyard are among your options. This round-up has the scoop you need to get your family’s good time started. And with both rain and sunny weather in the forecast, keep both the list of The Best Places in the DC Area to Spend a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids and The Great Indoors post handy, too. Happy Weekend!

Playoffs Pep Rally
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 3-5:30pm
Admission: Free
Get your weekend started early and Ignite Your Natitude! The Capitol Riverfront Pep Rally is celebrating the Nats in the playoffs with live music, local food vendors and food trucks, face painting, lawn games, giveaways, and Bluejacket brews starting two hours before the first pitch.

#OnePursuit
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, 5:30pm & Saturday, 4pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The postseason begins for the Nats this weekend as they host the Dodgers. Catch games Friday and Saturday — tickets are still available for both, though they won’t be the cheap seats at this point. If you can’t make it to the game, check out this Washington Post article with suggestions for watching the playoffs elsewhere with other Nats fans.

Taste of DC
Where: Pennsylvania Ave., 3rd-7th Streets NW
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: $20, $10/ages 6-12, free for 5 and under
Celebrate the food, wine, and culture of our city during Columbus Day weekend. Along with the obvious — tastings from more than 50 area restaurants — there will be cooking demos, live entertainment, a beer garden, and an area with activities — dancing, games, storytelling, arts & crafts, and more — especially for kids.

White House Fall Garden Tours
Where: White House
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm & Sunday, 10am – 2:30pm
Admission: Free
It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy autumn at the White House! The annual Fall Garden and Grounds Tours are being held this weekend. The Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Rose Garden, Kitchen Garden, and South Lawn will be on view to guests. The public is invited, but every visitor, small children included, needs a ticket to tour. Starting at 9am on both days, tickets will be distributed at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion at 15th & E Streets NW on a first-come, first-served basis. Tour times are indicated on each ticket, so keep your day open if you hope to go.

VelocityDC Dance Festival
Where: Sidney Harmon Hall
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Tickets start at $18
If you like dance, you’ll love this festival featuring performances by some of the city’s best-known ensembles, undiscovered gems, and everyone in between. Returning for its 8th season, the VelocityDC Dance Festival will showcase styles ranging from ballet to hip hop, tap to flamenco, demonstrating why it’s a highlight of Washington’s dance season.

Merriment for All!
Where: Revel’s Grove in Crownesville, Md
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $24/ages 16 and up, $10/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under
Enjoy a day of merriment at the Maryland Renaissance Festival! The annual faire recalls medieval times with a village full of fun and entertainment for the whole family. This is one of my very favorite annual events in the DC area, and it could very well become one of yours, too. Huzzah!

Fallin’
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by locale
Enjoy autumn fun and then some at a number of farms and other locales around the area. Pick pumpkins, whiz down slides, visit animals, jump on giant inflatables, take pony rides, indulge in caramel apples, and much more. The KFDC guide to fall festivals has details on all of them.

Peirce Mill Heritage Day
Where: Peirce Mill, Rock Creek Park
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Step back in time to 1820 with the National Park Service and Friends of Peirce Mill for Peirce Mill Heritage Day! At center stage is the last remaining water mill in DC — visitors can witness the intricate workings of this four-story machine as it grinds corn into meal, powered by a giant water wheel (milling demos take place about every 15 minutes from 11am – 2pm). There will be arts and crafts activities, including water mill toys, corn husk doll making, cornmeal play dough, flour sacks, and Peirce Mill stamps. Watch the hand-assembly of a dry stone wall, see logs hewn with an ax, and crank an old-fashioned cider press. And for your musical entertainment, a local musician Orrin Star will play bluegrass throughout the day. A new addition this year will be a presentation on Latino bread-making culture, with on-site preparation of tortillas using cornmeal. Read more about Peirce Mill in this KFDC post.

Art Safari
Where: The Torpedo Factory
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Alexandria’s wonderful tradition for families, Art Safari returns for its 21st year with a full day of hands-on activities for kids and families. Artists will lead young visitors in creative projects across a variety of media, including clay, papier-mâché, fiber, and printmaking. All activities are free, with most appropriate for children ages 5 – 11 and some requiring parental assistance. Children should wear clothing that can get a little dirty.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Find Knuffle Bunny at Adventure Theatre
* Synetic Theatre presents The Music Box, a collection of comedic vignettes set to music, for families
* Catch the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane opens on the Imagination Stage
* See (and smell?) Flowers Stink, a collaboration between the U.S. Botanic Garden and the Kennedy Center
* It’s the final weekend to watch Rapunzel let down her hair at The Puppet Co.
* And Tiny Tots can enjoy a Tots Sing-a-Long at the puppet theater
* The Olney Theatre presents The Diary of Anne Frank
* See the superbly acted The Little Foxes at Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)
* Make it a date night to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at the Kennedy Center
* Ruthless, The Musical just opened at Creative Cauldron

hiSTORYtime
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Saturday 11am – 12pm
Admission: Free
This new program is aimed at boosting early literacy while introducing young visitors (ages 0 to 6) to objects in the museum’s collection. Drop by to listen to stories about music, then kiddos can participate in music making and craft their own instruments.

Wicked Fun
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Get the Halloween party started with activities and events that celebrate the spooky spirit. Creep through the woods in a mini-train ride. This post has details on where the tricks and treats are happening.

Maryland Pumpkin Festival
Where: Summers Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $13.95, 2 and under are free
Along with Summers Farm’s regular offerings, such as the corn maze, hay slides, farm animals, hay rides, pumpkin patch, pig races and jumping pillow, their annual Maryland Pumpkin Festival celebrates all things pumpkin with bonus activities: Enjoy pumpkin hunts, pumpkin sculpting demonstration, face painting, an appearance by Mr. Brown the Clown, live music, and more!

An Apple a Day…
Where: Area orchards
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Take advantage of apple season! Several area orchards and farms welcome guests to gather their own. Many on this list with pick-your-own opportunities have apples among their PYO offerings. We also just visited Waters Orchard in Germantown last weekend, and it was fantastic — a great variety of apples in a beautiful setting! And I always recommend calling ahead to be sure the pickings are good the day you plan to go.

Story Time with Bear Song
Where: Walls of Books
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
Bring little ones to the bookstore in Shaw for story time with Bear Song. Go early, grab your seat, and settle in to sing great songs, hear great stories, and see great smiles on all the little faces. During Story Time – and, of course, a little bit after, all kid’s books are 10% off!

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Where: Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the contributions of Latinos to aviation and space exploration. Hear about Latin American aviators, meet Hispanic scientists and engineers, and enjoy hands-on activities. Many of the activities and presentations are available in English and Spanish.

SerbFest
Where: Saint Luke Serbian Orthodox Church of Potomac
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free
Celebrate Serbian culture an enjoy family activities at this three-day festival. There‘s something for everyone, including traditional Serbian cuisine (authentic split roasted pig, lamb , and grilled meats), beverages, dance and music performances, gifts and boutique items, and lots of family-friendly activities.  Saint Luke’s is located at 10660 River Road in Potomac, MD.

National Chess Day
Where: Bowie Town Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: $15
Ready, set, checkmate! A chess tournament hosted by Prince George’s County Home School Chess Club will be held in celebration of “National Chess Day” at Bowie Town Center. Chess enthusiasts are invited to participate in this spectacle with dozens of chess boards arranged in a giant square in the food court at Bowie Town Center. Activities will include a chess 101 basics workshop, monster chess, chess team trivia quiz, blitz chess rounds and live simultaneous play.

Hands-On History Hats Off Program
Where: National Museum of the U.S. Navy
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Head to this hidden gem of a museum for a hands-on opportunity to learn about the history of the U.S. Navy through its ever-changing headgear. Located behind the fighting top, families will be able to pick up and wear hats of the Navy from different eras. There will also be a hat designing station! Read more about the US Navy Museum in this KFDC post.

Movie Time: Abulele
Where: Edlavitch DCJCC
When: Saturday, 3pm & Sunday, 12:30pm
Admission: $13.50/adult, $6.75/14 and under
In this heartfelt family film, Adam, a young boy grieving from the loss of his brother, discovers a mythical furry beast (an Abulele) living in his building. When Adam realizes that it’s not the Abulele but the humans who are the real monsters, he risks everything to save his friendly giant. Catch this film at the DC JCC located at 1529 16th Street NW.

Light the Way – Walk for Independence
Where: National Mall
When: Sunday
Admission: $25/adult, $10/child
The 6th Annual Light the Way – Walk for Independence encourages people of all ages, particularly people who are blind or visually impaired, to maintain active and productive lifestyles. This year’s event will provide participants with a morning of fun-filled exercise, camaraderie, and entertainment. Join CLB and walk the scenic, historic, and accessible route between the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Warm up and wind down with a hip hop dance instructor from Yala Fitness. There will also be a “Kids Zone” tent with a Bubbleologist, face painter, and glitter tattoo artist.

Walks in the Woods
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Fall is a perfect time to hit the trail, when you can enjoy the foliage just as much as the activity itself. This go-to KFDC post has a bunch of recommendations for good places to hike with kids.

Hiking & History
Where: Harpers Ferry
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free ($10 if you park in lot)
Get some fresh air and exercise as you take in the start of autumn hues and historic sites. Harpers Ferry is an easy day trip or weekend destination from DC, and fall is a great time to go. For more about a visit there, see this recent post.