Tag Archives: DC Spring

May 27, 2016 · 8:05 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 27-30

A memorial tour is a great way to observe this weekend’s holiday and enjoy a day in DC

Whether you seek events that observe the holiday, are ready to get the summer fun started, or just want to enjoy some quality time with the kids over the long weekend, this round-up of recreation has you covered. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
It may not be official on the calendar, but summer fun is underway Outdoor concerts, water fun, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun or are about to begin in DC. Start the weekend with free music this evening at Jazz in the Garden or Rockin’ on the Riverfront, cool off at a public pool or a sprayground during the warm days, see a family flick outdoors at National Harbor on Sunday night… and so much more. The KFDC 2016 Guide to Summer in DC has the scoop on where and when you can experience the joys of summer.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The largest U-pick strawberry festival takes place this weekend and next, rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the jumping pillow, slides, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, and animal encounters. Whew!

Soak City
Where: Kings Dominion
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $45
Soak up the fun this holiday weekend at King’s Dominion! Soak City is the park’s 20-acre splash-tacular paradise with water activities for guests of all ages, opens this weekend. Zip down water slides, play in the wave pools, ride a raft with the whole fam, take a thrilling inner tube ride or keep it chill as you meander along the Lazy Rider. There’s even a whole area just for little ones (under 54”). And you can simply relax in the comfort of a private cabana. (Tip: You can often find ticket discounts by doing a simple Google search.)

Memorials on the Mall
Where: National Mall
When: All Weekend
Admission: Free
Tributes to those who have served our country will take place at the many memorials and monuments on the National Mall throughout the weekend. Times vary, but you can look for schedules on the National Park Service website. The Mall will likely be crowded, so plan accordingly.

Art to Save the Sea
Where: National Zoo
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Get a close-up view of a 12-foot shark, 16-foot parrot fish, an 8-foot octopus, and a 20-foot-lcoral reef — all made completely of plastic debris collected from beaches. “Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea,” a collection of colorful and dramatic sculptures of marine animals, represents more than 315 billion pounds of plastic in oceans today, underscoring the need for wildlife conservation. It opens today, May 27, and will be on view at the Zoo through September 5.

Nats vs. Cards
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are playing at home for the holiday weekend, and you can catch games against the Cardinals on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoon. Be sure to check out KFDC tips on how to do a Nats game without breaking the bank. And if you go on Sunday, plan to stay after for Kids Run the Bases when children can loop the infield after the last out.

Root for the Baysox
Where: Prince George’s Stadium
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
If you want to see baseball on a smaller scale, check out a Minor League game. The Bowie Baysox are hosting the Altoona Curve all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy, too — giveaways, post-game fireworks, a helicopter candy drop(!), and more. Read more about Baysox games in this recent KFDC post.

Take the Wheel with Superheroes
Where: National Harbor
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $15/adult, $11.25/child
If you haven’t taken a spin on the Capital Wheel, the Ferris wheel at National Harbor, this weekend is a good time to go while some special guests are there. Captain America and Spider Man will be at the attraction for superhero greetings along with a whirl on the ride. And there’s plenty more to do at National Harbor while you’re there – this KFDC post has details about one of our experiences there.

Beast Coast
Where: Gateway Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Starts at $10 for spectators
See some of the world’s best parkour athletes execute their amazing tricks and skills and get in on the action, too! There will be contests, demos, and courses for all levels, plus seminars for those serious about their parkour training. A DJ, giveaways, and other activities will add to the festival fun.

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

The Emperor’s Nightingale
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: Throughout the weekend
Tickets: $19.50
The sweet song of a Nightingale saves an Empire. Adventure Theatre’s adaptation set in eighteenth century China, brings to light the younger days of Emperor Qianlong, who would become one of the greatest rulers of the Middle Kingdom. It takes a magical bird to help the headstrong and aimless Prince to become a King. Recommended for all ages.

Shows on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10 & $6
It’s the last chance to see Sleeping Beauty at the puppet theatre in Glen Echo. Told with rod puppets and wonderful special effects, the show is a real treat for princesses and princes, big and small. And little ones will love Sing-a-Long, this weekend’s featured Tiny Tots show — the lights stay on, doors remain open, and performances are short for newbie theatre-goers.

Open Studio: Symbolism in Stories
Where: Sackler Gallery
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Learn how photographs can tell stories about a place during this afternoon of free family-friendly activities. Discover Saudi Arabia through tours of the special exhibition Symbolic Cities: The Work of Ahmed Mater. Experiment with art materials, solve creative challenges, and collaborate with friends and family. All ages are welcome with adult companions.

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

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

Jump In with Next Reflex Dance Collective
Where: Workhouse Arts Center
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: $18/adult, $10/child
Take in an evening of fun, family friendly and diverse dance work at Jump In presented by Next Reflex Dance Collective. The one-night dance event at the W-3 Theatre on the campus of the Work House Arts Center in Lorton, VA, features an exciting program of dance works geared towards audience members of all ages.

IRELAND 100
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free (some performances require paid tickets)
The Kennedy Center is celebrating Irish culture and arts through June 5. View exhibits in the Hall of Nations and Hall of States, catch performances by some of Ireland’s best contemporary musicians, dancers, and theater companies, enjoy concerts and concessions on the special outdoor green space, and more. See the website for the schedule of festivities.

National Memorial Day Concert
Where: West lawn of the Capitol
When: Sunday, 8-9:30pm, gates open at 5pm
(or Saturday for the dress rehearsal)
Admission: Free
Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2016 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday from 8 – 9:30pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna are hosting the event once again, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our country. If you’re planning to go, the FAQ page on the concert website is worth a read. KFDC Tip: If you can’t make Sunday’s show or don’t want to deal with the crowds, Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public — gates open at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm.

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

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

The Ins & Outs of DC
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
For even more ideas for things to do, depending on the weather or simply your preference, these posts are chock full of evergreen pursuits:
The Great Indoors
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

2 Comments

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

Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Activities, DC Museums for Kids, DC outdoors, DC Sports, DC Spring, DC Summer 2016, DC with kids, 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, Memorial Day 2016, Strawberry Picking, Washington DC Events, Weekend May 28-29

June 12, 2015 · 7:32 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 12-14

Flinging Frisbees at Seneca Creek State Park

From chill to thrills, this weekend has it all. Keep it mellow with some evening fishing, disc golfing, museum hopping, yoga, and easy seasonal pursuits. Go big at the Capital Pride extravaganza, Jazz Fest, Star Wars themed baseball, a faerie festival, or a spectacular race of wacky and whimsical vehicles through the streets of Baltimore. Or try something in between — Shakespeare in the park, National Maker Faire, a kids cycling race, children’s theatre, ongoing Everyday Play around the area. The one thing they all have in common: Fun. Happy Weekend!

Seize the Season
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Enjoy “summer” with a host of activities that only occur this time of year. Enjoy an open-air concert at one of several series in the area. Go berry picking. Stay cool under the sun at an outdoor pool, sprayground, or water park. Ride mini-trains and carousels at local parks. And much, much more. Check the Summer 2015 guide for details on tons of seasonal pursuits.

Friday Night Fishing
Where: Diamond Teague Park
When: Friday, 5-8pm
Admission: Free
Join Anacostia Riverkeeper at the dock at Diamond Teague Park for catch and release fishing – a wonderful parent/child experience with the Anacostia River. This evening is the first in the series that will take place every Friday through September 4. Diamond Teague Park is located at 100 Potomac Avenue SE, between Nationals Park and Yards Park.

Jazzfest at the Yards
Where: Yards Park
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free on Friday, $45 on Saturday
This two-day blowout of music at Yards Park is part of the DC Jazz Festival. While great jazz performances will be the highlight, there will also be a marketplace, food and drink tastings, and other activities. And don’t forget the fountains and wading pool are always a hit with the kiddos.

Shakespeare In-the-Ruins
Where: Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $15-38/adult, free for kids
Take the whole fam to see Shakespeare in the park. Chesapeake Shakespeare Company presents The Comedy of Errors, a play appropriate for all ages, with music, slapstick, and physical humor. The production is part of their In-The-Ruins summer series that runs June 12-July 19 (Thursday – Sunday). Even better, kids are free (two for every adult) and picnics are encouraged, as are sturdy shoes for park playtime. FYI: Sunday is Family Fun Day, when gates open 4:30pm, and the performance starts at 6pm. Advance reservation are recommended to ensure seats for everyone.

Capital Pride
Where: Northwest DC & Pennsylvania Ave.
When: Saturday, 4:30-7:30pm & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate gay pride in our nation’s capitol at the 40th annual Capital Pride Parade and Festival that are expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people. The procession on Saturday kicks off at 4:30pm at 22nd & P Streets NW and will wind its way through Dupont, Logan, and other areas of NW. It’s sure to be a spectacular extravaganza of ornate floats, street performers, music and dancing, glitter and beads, and plenty of reveling. Sunday’s family-friendly festival will feature three stages of live entertainment and will host 300 exhibitors, including local and community groups, national sponsors, local businesses, food vendors, restaurants, and businesses looking to promote their services. It’s all a fun and fabulous opportunity to show support for the LGBTA community and join the celebration.

Air Force Cycling Classic
Where: Clarendon & Crystal City
When: Saturday, 11:30am & Sunday, 11:15am
Admission: Free
The official race is for adults, but kids ages 9 and under can get in on the cycling, too – there are special races just for them along with the main event. The Ethan Klancnik Memorial Kids Race to support the Tay-Sachs Awareness and Prevention Organization will be raced in honor of Ethan Klancnik, who lost his battle with the disease. The Saturday kids races will take place in Clarendon at 11:30am, and Sunday’s will be held in Crystal City around 12:25pm. Multiple heats for different age groups will vary in distance; the older the kids, the further they ride. Participants must bring their own helmets and bikes, and trikes are welcome, too. For details and to register online, visit the Air Force Cycling Classic website.

National Maker Faire
Where: University of the District of Columbia
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
Inventors, tinkerers, tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, hobbyists, engineers, students and Makers of all ages will come together in the nation’s capital for the inaugural National Maker Faire. Part science fair and part county fair, the event is an all-ages gathering of curious, inventive people (ie, Makers) to show what they have made and to share what they have learned. It’s also a chance for attendees to interact with technologies, STEM projects, textiles, crafting activities, homemade robots, and more.

Maryland Faerie Festival
Where: Darlington, MD
When: Friday 5pm, Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $5/ages 3-12, $15/ages 12-99
Indulge little faerie dreams at the annual festival inspired by faerie folklore and literature. Apparently, it’s kind of like Renn Fest on a much smaller scale with facets that will delight children, especially those who believe in faeries. Treasure hunts, craft projects, nature walks, and acrobats are some of the activities kids (and adults) will enjoy. Art, crafts, musical performances, and jewelry vendors will appeal to the bigger faeries in the crowd.

Juneteenth
Where: Watkins Regional Park
When: Saturday, 1 – 5pm
Admission: Free, but some activities require a small fee
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The celebration at Watkins offers a great lineup of culturally inspired dance and musical performances, plus family activities. Face painting, the interactive playground, the animals at the Old Maryland Farm, miniature train and Carousel rides, and mini-golf will all be available, those requiring a fee at discounted prices. There will also be several vendors selling a variety of food.

Tinker Away
Where: National Building Museum
When: Saturday, 1-3pm
Admission: $5 suggested donation
Picture the city of the future — then build it, make it, shape it, and share it! In this unique urban planning project in our historic Great Hall, join fellow makers of all ages and experience levels and create a collective model of an imaginative metropolis. Use unusual and creative materials to solve real urban planning challenges in miniature, or make something original that improves the cityscape. Throughout the program, the city will change as new people add, subtract and build — just like a real city.

May the Force be with Baysox
Where: Prince George’s Stadium
When: Saturday, 6:35pm
Admission: Tickets start at $7
Baseball goes galactic on Saturday as the Bowie Baysox host Star Wars Night on Saturday, as the Baysox take on the Portland Sea Dogs. Enjoy light saber battles and meet your favorite Star Wars heroes & villains in move quality costumes — see Storm Troopers, Darth Vader, Star Wars collectibles and more. Fans are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Star Wars character, too. A fireworks extravaganza will light up the sky after the game. (FYI: There are games on Friday and Sunday, too!)

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Potted Potter, a hilarious act condensing all seven Harry Potter books, is at the Lansburgh Theatre (look for a ticket deal)
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Baby Bear’s Birthday and Panda-Monium are the featured Tiny Tots shows at the puppet theatre
* Enjoy theatre by kids for kids as Encore Stage & Studio presents Alice in Wonderland
* See Newsies at the National Theatre, on stage through next weekend
* Creative Cauldron presents The Little Prince through June 21
* Tom Chapin is playing a family show Saturday morning at Jammin’ Java

Root for A Fun Festival
Where: U.S. Botanic Garden
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Get to the root of things at the U.S. Botanic Garden, where they’re celebrating the beauty and importance of roots. An offshoot of the Exposed: The Secret Life of Roots exhibit, the Festival of Roots welcomes all ages to explore the wonders of plant parts usually found belowground. Sample vegetable dishes, try out some hands-on root-related activities, and chat an agricultural ecologist and the man behind the preserved plants on display in the East Gallery.

Shawnee Festival
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Friday & Saturday, 10:30am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
Join the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma and the Shawnee Tribe to learn more about the culture, history and contemporary lives of these tribal entities through dance performances, artist demonstrations, music, hands-on activities for families and more.

George Mason Day
Where: Gunston Hall
When: Saturday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
Join Gunston Hall for a historic event and celebrate the ratification of the Virginia Declaration of Rights! Enjoy a parade on the grounds, sample food from the hearth kitchen, and converse with historic characters about life in the 18th century. Food vendors will be available and activities for children will be offered throughout the day.

Kinetic Sculpture Race
Where: American Visionary Art Museum
When: Sunday, 11am
Admission: Free
You might see giant pink poodles and other outrageous works of art “race” down Charm City streets at the American Visionary Art Museum’s 17th annual Kinetic Sculpture Race. Kinetinauts (the pilots of the moving sculptures) will compete for the Grand East Coast National Mediocre Champion, awarded to the competitor who finishes exactly in the middle (that is the BEST). Vehicles are wacky and whimsical, straight from a lunatic genius imagination and constructed out of all kinds of materials. They may be a small one-person machine or a 50-foot feat of engineering piloted by many. This is one of those spectacles you just have to see for yourself. And for more about the American Visionary Art Museum, see this KFDC post.

Disc Golfin’
Where: Calvert Road or Seneca Creek State Parks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Hit the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors with the family. I wrote about the golf-Frisbee combo and my kids’ first venture with it last fall. They’ve played a few times since then, mostly recently at Seneca Creek. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty parks with opportunities for more recreation at both.

Celebration of Textiles
Where: Textile Museum
When: Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum will host its annual “Celebration of Textiles” festival to immerse visitors of all ages in the world of textiles. The event features art and dress-up activities, live demonstrations by local guilds—including spinning, lace-making and sheep-shearing—international dance and music performances and self-guided tours of textiles on display in the museum.

Love Your Body Yoga Festival
Where: Reston Town Center
When: Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
The 7th annual festival will feature activities for the whole family, including live music, complimentary massages, energy healing demonstrations, healthy food samples, plus opportunities to learn about alternative therapies in addition to yoga such as Reiki, chiropractic, and massage. A Kids Tent will offer fun especially for little ones, including storytelling and laughter yoga. There will also be giveaways and drawings for free yoga classes, massages, and other services.

Ancient Chinese Secret
Where: Panda Gourmet
When: All weekend long
Admission: Depends on how much you order
Take the fam out to eat at a DC “secret” in northeast. Grab a bite after an outing to the National Arboretum, as it’s just minutes down the street. Or go out of your way to make a trip there — the delicious, authentic meal you’ll get is worth it.

The Weekend Round-Up: June 5-7

Strawberry picking, a seasonal fave

There’s a lot to celebrate this first weekend of June, with big annual events showcasing everything from local communities to children and the arts to trucks to trails to jazz to green living. Or, just revel in the days off from the grind with a seasonal activity or one of many possibilities for family fun. Happy Weekend!

Summer Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Free concerts al fresco, outdoor swimming, movies under the stars, sprayground fun, and much more! Activities exclusive to the season can be enjoyed all around the area, several taking place on Friday evening – a perfect way to kick off the weekend. The Summer 2015 guide has the whole scoop on all of them.

Celebrate Fairfax
Where: Fairfax County Government Center
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Admission: $12/adult, $5/youth, free for 2 and under
The annual Celebrate Fairfax! Festival has something for everyone — live music (Kongos, Three Doors Down, and The Outlaws among the performers), carnival rides, children’s activities, art, food vendors, and much more to keep guests entertained throughout the weekend. For more details, along with the full musical line-up, see the Celebrate Fairfax website.

Friday Night Drive-In
Where: Union Market
When: Friday 8-10pm
Admission: $10/car
Union Market is bringing back their Drive-In series through the month of June, with a “Flashback Fridays” theme that salutes the ‘80s and ‘90s decades. Jurassic Park is on the big screen tonight — your brood can view it from the comfort of your car in the UM parking lot. Get there as early as 6pm, and the film starts at 8pm.

Keep on Truckin’
Where: RFK Lot 7
When: Saturday, 8am – 1pm
Admission: Free
The Truck Touch event that easily takes the title as Mac Daddy of them all is happening this Saturday for its 8th year. The DC Department of Public Works welcomes guests to climb aboard and explore all kinds of cool vehicles that are used to clean and repair streets, change traffic lights, collect refuse, clear snow, provide emergency services, administer mobile health care, and more. There will also be opportunities to test ride Segways, test drive hybrid and electric cars, spec out a helicopter, and sit atop police horses. Read more about it and see images from a past Truck Touch in here (and be sure to note that it was posted a couple of years ago, so the dates don’t confuse you).

Imagination Bethesda
Where: Auburn & Norfolk Avenues
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Bethesda Urban Partnership to celebrate children, art, and all things fun at the 21st annual Imagination Bethesda. Where Woodmont Avenue meets Elm Street, activity tents will line the streets, face painters will bring butterflies and pirates to life, and a stage of live entertainment will have the whole street dancing. Activity details and the entertainment line-up are available on the Imagination Bethesda website.

Nats vs. Cubs
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
It’s a chance to try out the just-posted tips on how to save on a Nats game! Our home team is hosting the Cubs this weekend with an evening game tonight (7:05pm) and afternoon match-ups on Saturday (12:05pm) and Sunday (4:05pm). Stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases when children ages 4-12 can loop the infield after the final out.

It’s Easy Being Green
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Starts at $12/adult, free for 16 and under
The nation’s premier sustainability event is where you will see the best in green. Enjoy loads of exhibits and activities — renowned authors, leaders and educators; great how-to workshops; cutting-edge films; fun activities for kids; organic beer and wine; a green marketplace; and delicious vegetarian cuisine and diverse live music. A Family Fun Pavilion sponsored by DC Department of Parks and Recreation and Savers will feature entertaining and enriching activities, including eco-crafts, yoga, story time, trivia and more (Saturday & Sunday only)! And if you bike there, show your helmet to the box office attendants and receive FREE admission.

Walk the Museum Walk
Where: Throughout Dupont-Kalorama
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Get off the Mall and explore the many museums in the Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood during its 32nd annual Museum Walk Weekend. See the exhibits and enjoy special programs for free at seven diverse museums, including The Phillips Collection, Dumbarton House, Heurich House, and Woodrow Wilson House. If you don’t want to use the shoe leather express, there will be a free shuttle running between sites.

Jazz ‘n’ Families Fun Days
Where: The Phillips Collection
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: Free
Leading up to the DC Jazz Festival starting next week and part of The Phillips Collection’s Museum Walk events, there will be special performances and activities for guests, especially young ones. There will be live jazz throughout the museum, including musicians improvising to paintings in the galleries. Kids can join a scavenger hunt, visit an instrument petting zoo, create their own masterpieces to take home, and enjoy the permanent collection, too.

Celebrate Petworth
Where: 800 block of Upshur Street NW
When: Saturday, 10am – 7pm
Admission: Free
This festival in the heart of the Petworth neighborhood will celebrate creativity, diversity, culture, people, and quality of life, the core components of what make Petworth a vibrant and wonderful place to live. Anchored around four main themes — Art, Music, Food and Healthy Living, and Kids/Family — Celebrate Petworth will bring residents of the community together, not just for the day of the event, but through the creation of new opportunities for collaboration, partnership and engagement amongst residents, businesses, and non-profit organizations. See the schedule of activities here.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Potted Potter, a hilarious show condensing all seven Harry Potter books, is at the Lansburgh Theatre (look for a ticket deal)
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Merlin’s Magic is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* DC-area “kindie” band Here Comes Trouble is celebrating their “Goo on My Shoe” CD release with a show at FNDTN Gallery & Liveroom on Saturday
* Creative Cauldron presents The Little Prince for it’s first weekend of performances
* Spend Saturday morning withThe Great Zucchini at Jammin’ Java

Happy Trails
Where: Around the area
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Saturday is National Trails Day, and you can celebrate by taking part in one of many special events around the area. Take a hike, do some volunteer trail maintenance, go bird watching, and more. Find an event for your family on the National Trails Day website.

Active-Kidz Family Fun Day
Where: Leesburg Premium Outlets
When: Saturday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the beginning of summer with a day of activities for the whole family at the outlets! Shoppers of all ages can enjoy complimentary glitter tattoos and balloon animals, and there will also be a showcase of groups from around the community such as TopKick Martial Arts, Renewal by Andersen, Ha’Penny Montessori School, Sportrock Climbing Center, c3 cyberclub, Loudon Soccer and Patrick Henry College Teen Camps. Plan to stock up on summer wear, too — retailers like Claire’s, Banana Republic, and Under Armour will be offering special discounts all day!

Savage Fest
Where: Historic Savage, Md
When: Saturday, 10am – 6:30pn
Admission: Free
The annual Savage Fest has fostered a sense of community by bringing together over 2,000 Howard County residents each June for a daylong celebration. This 28th year will feature live music from local bands, pony rides, a petting zoo, jugglers, magic shows, local history reenactments and tours, dancing, demonstrations and other entertainment throughout the day. It will also be bigger than ever with over 50 food, craft, retail and information vendors! The event will be held in Historic Savage, MD on Baldwin Common (9035 Baltimore Street, Savage, MD 20763).

Colors of the Caribbean
Where: Strathmore
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
You don’t have to go to the islands to experience the culture of the Caribbean. On Sunday, Strathmore presents a day of free music and dance performances, workshops, artistic presentations, food demonstrations, and hands-on art activities celebrating the vibrant diversity and rich cultural heritage of the 42 countries that comprise the Caribbean Basin. Families are invited to explore the campus and join in the celebration by visiting each staging area for unique experiences and kid-friendly activities that will ignite all the senses with the sounds, sights, and tastes of the Caribbean.

Tenleytown Block Party
Where: Tenley Gastropub Parking Lot
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Friendship Hospital for Animals is celebrating the unveiling of its new 16,345-square -foot renovation with a community block party and special pet adoption event. The Washington Humane Society’s Adopt Force One mobile adoption center will be on-site for pet-lovers looking to bring home a new furry friend. Guests at the family-friendly event will be treated to complimentary carnival-like entertainment including cotton candy and popcorn, a moon bounce and photo booth. And Tenley Sport & Health will offer free Zumba classes throughout the event. Light fare and refreshments will be available for purchase from Tenley Gastropub, the area’s brand-new sports bar. Friendship Hospital for Animals will provide pet treats for all four-legged family members in attendance.

Storytime & Dinner
Where: Temple Shalom, Chevy Chase
When: Sunday, 4:30-6pm
Admission: $5
Embark on an interactive storybook adventure on June 7 at Temple Shalom in Chevy Chase, MD, as we travel across Israel with Hare and Tortoise! This unique event is especially for children ages 0-6 and their families. Hear author Laura Gehl read her book Hare and Tortoise Race Across Israel, then recreate Hare and Tortoise’s journey. Make art in a Tel Aviv museum! Visit the desert! Relax at the Dead Sea! Play soccer in Independence Park in Jerusalem! Buy delicious Israeli foods at the shuk! We recommend a tortoise’s pace for this storybook adventure—you won’t want to miss a thing along the way. Pre-registration is $5 per person (with a max of $20 per family) and includes dinner and a copy of the book for your family.

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

2 Comments

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

Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Activities, DC Spring, DC Summer 2015, DC with kids, Fun with Kids in Washington DC, Strawberry Picking DC, Things to do with Kids in Maryland, Things to do with kids in Northern Virginia, Washington DC Events, Weekend June 6-7

May 29, 2015 · 8:15 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 29-31

Getting the hoola on at last year’s Tour de Fat

A wacky (& wonderful) celebration of bikes, folk music, summer fun, a wine fest, a pop culture convention, live entertainment, and even more awesome activities are among your options for family fun this weekend. And you can find even more in the big list of Everyday Play. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Outdoor concerts, water fun, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun in DC. Start the weekend with free music this evening at Jazz in the Garden or Rockin’ on the Riverfront, cool off at a public pool or a sprayground during the steamy days, see a family flick outdoors at National Harbor on Sunday night… and so much more. The KFDC 2015 Guide to Summer in DC has the scoop on where and when you can experience the joys of summer.

Tour de Fat
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free
The celebration of all things bicycle is zany in the best way possible. There’s a bicycle parade, bicycle art, reconfigured bicycles to ride, a dance contest to win a bicycle, a car-for-bike swap, a bike-themed kids area, and bikes just…everywhere. There’s also beer! Registration for the parade starts at 10am, then the rest of the festivities kick off at 11am. Costumes encouraged.

Washington Folk Festival
Where: Glen Echo Park
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: Free
Get folksy at Glen Echo Park this weekend, as the Washington Folk Festival showcases the diversity of traditional music in Washington. All of the artists hail from the DC area, but cultures from around the nation, as well as the world, will be represented through music, dance, crafts, and stories.

Awesome Con
Where: Washington Convention Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 7pm & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $15/1-day pass, $25/2-day pass, free for kids 10 and under
This celebration of popular culture is DC’s comic-con, embracing all aspects of geekdom and pop culture. Expect a wide assortment of comic books, collectibles, toys, games, original art, cosplay, a Kids Zone, and appearance from more than fifty movie and television celebrity guests throughout the weekend. Kids will love the chance to draw along with noted comic book artists, attend Superhero University and make Superhero symbols and capes, see a wizard magic show, and participate in a kid’s costume contest and puppetry class.

Vintage Virginia Wine & Food Festival
Where: Bull Run Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $35/adults, $10/kids
A wine fest might sound like a grown-ups-only event, but this one offers plenty of fun for kids, too. Chef demos, food truck fare, live music, and a whole Family Tent with activities especially for children are among the festivities. Of course, there will be plenty of opportunity for wine tasting, too!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Follow the yellow brick road to Adventure Theatre, where The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is in its final weekend
* Take little ones and their stuffed toys to the NSO Teddy Bear Concert, Violins and Trombones and Bears, Oh My! at the Kennedy Center
* The curtains are also about to close on Creative Cauldron’s Once on this Island
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Old MacDonald’s Farm is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* Potted Potter, a hilarious show condensing all seven Harry Potter books, opens at the Lansburgh Theatre this weekend (look for a ticket deal)
* Rainbow Rock is playing a CD-Release show at Jammin’ Java on Saturday morning

The Capital Wheel Turns 1!
Where: National Harbor
When: Saturday, 10am – 10pm
Admission: Rides are $15/ages 12 and up, $11.25/child
It’s been one year since The Capital Wheel started spinning, and National Harbor is marking the occasion with a birthday party! Join the celebration that will include a DJ on the plaza, Buzz Bakery cupcakes for the first 500 riders, fun props in the Wheel’s gondolas for photo opps, and Golden Ticket giveaways all day.

DC United vs. Philadelphia Union
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 7pm (parking lot opens at 4pm)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Kick it at a soccer game as the DC United host the Philadelphia Union on Saturday evening. Get there early for activities at the Lot 8 Tailgate, and be sure to stop by section 222 for a variety of kids activities. For some extra goodies just for young fans, join the Kids Club!

Behind-the-Scenes at the Ballpark
Where: Nationals Park
When: Sunday
Admission: $15/adults, $12/children
The Nats might not be playing at home, but you can still have a great day at Nationals Park on a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium. That’s right, you can get access to areas that aren’t open to just anyone at any time. AND you get to go down to the field, sit in the dugouts, and hang out in the Nationals bullpen. Tours are available on most non-game days throughout the season, and when I last checked, tickets were still available for this Sunday! This KFDC post has the full scoop on this treat for any Nats fan.

Sample Spanish Immersion
Where: Creative Acts Learning Center
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Take a fun and interactive class designed to have your child using Spanish immediately. A new series of Spanish classes for kids is starting up on Capitol Hill, and you’re invited to sample one on Saturday. Before and after class interact with like minded parents over refreshments, tour the space, and talk to the instructor about the class. Sessions are introductory and 30 minutes long starting at 9:30am and 10:15am for 3-5 year olds, and 11am and 11:45am for 6-9 year olds. Secure your child’s spot by registering for the class on the website. The Center is located 631-B Pennsylvania Avenue SE on Capitol Hill.

Play with Zip
Where: Beauvoir Outdoors
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
I’m not recommending this because I just wrote about it. The National Cathedral Elementary School’s playground makes this round-up because it’s a fantastic place to take the kids to play. With lots of climbing and sliding structures and spaces for all ages, plus a super fun zipline(!), your whole crew will have a blast there.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The area’s largest U-pick strawberry festival is on for the second and final weekend – rain or shine. Get ready for loads of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the Pumpkin Jumpin’ Pillow, slides, a pedal cart track, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, Cow Train ($2), and animal encounters. Whew!

5 Comments

Filed under All ages, Annual, Class, DC, Educational, Farm, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Movies, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Play, Seasonal, Sports, Spring, Summer, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

May 22, 2015 · 7:18 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 22-25

It’s spray time!

Whether you seek events that honor those who have served and sacrificed for our nation, are ready to get the summer fun started, or just want to enjoy some quality time with the kids over the holiday weekend, this round-up of family recreation should have you covered. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” in the City
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with an activity exclusive to this time of year. Outdoor public pools, spraygrounds, and water parks open Saturday; music and movies are playing under the stars; the strawberry picking season is underway; and blue crabs are making many a feaster very happy. The KFDC guide to summer in DC has specifics on all of the special events and series that come with the warm months — and a select few are also mentioned below.

Jazz in the Garden
Where: National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
When: Friday, 5-8:30pm
Admission: Free
The popular summer series is kicking off its new season with jazz guitar by Tom Lagana. Enjoy the music along with big, bold works of art in the NGA Sculpture Garden on the Mall. Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner or buy a bite there. Note: Adult drinks are available from the pavilion; BYO alcohol is not permitted.

Rock by the River
Where: The Yards Park
When: Friday, 6:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Kick off the long weekend with free music in the fresh air. Still Surfin’, a Beach Boys tribute, is tonight’s performance. Catch the show along with great views of the Anacostia River from the comfort of a blanket spread out on the grass. Pack a picnic or purchase food there from one of many food trucks or nearby eateries.

Nats vs. Phillies
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are hosting the Phillies this weekend with an evening game tonight (7:05pm) and afternoon match-ups on Saturday (4:05pm) and Sunday (1:35pm). Stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases when children ages 4-12 can loop the infield after the final out.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The area’s largest U-pick strawberry festival is this weekend – and next – rain or shine. Get ready for loads of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the Pumpkin Jumpin’ Pillow, slides, a pedal cart track, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, Cow Train ($2), and animal encounters. Whew!

Smithsonian Big Screens
Where: Natural History Museum, & Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Two new IMAX films just opened at the Natural History Museum and National Air & Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. Dinosaurs Alive! will thrill anyone fascinated by the prehistoric beasts, and Tomorrowland will take viewers on a sci-fi adventure with George Clooney. Be sure to make time to tour the exhibits, too – both museums are Smithsonian favorites!

Archaeological Adventures, Indy Style
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $10/ages 5-12, free for 4 and under (look for a ticket deal)
If you opt to check out Indiana Jones & the Adventure of Archaeology at Nat Geo, then you have chosen wisely. Interesting and entertaining, the new exhibit showcases props, video, and fun facts from Indy’s cinematic adventures along with fascinating artifacts and details about real-life archaeological studies and discoveries. Nat Geo recommends it for ages 8-80. If you’ve got really little ones, the Monster Fish exhibit is more their speed and also super fun.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $19.50
Adventure Theatre’s latest production has been getting such rave reviews, they’ve extended its run to May 31. Journey with Dorothy and friends to meet the Wizard and experience some entertaining adventures along the way. Tickets are available online, or you can still try to win a 4-pack through this KFDC giveaway!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* It’s your last chance to catch a performance of Sinbad: The Untold Tale at Imagination Stage
* The Creative Cauldron brings Once on this Island to the stage again this weekend
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Clowning Around is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre on Saturday

Land of the Free Music
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 6pm
Admission: Free
Every day, the Kennedy Center presents a free performance at 6pm on the Millennium Stage. This weekend, see winners of the VSA International Young Soloists Competition (all musicians ages 14-25 with disabilties), Slovenian accordionist Marko Hatlak, bluegrass band Bud’s Collective, and The Greek Chamber Music Project.

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

Memorial Day at Abe’s Place
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage
When: Monday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: $15/adult, $5/ages 6-15 for cottage tours; other tours are free
President Lincoln’s Cottage will host an array of activities on Memorial Day to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Family-friendly activities will include guided tours of the first National Cemetery, commemorative ceremonies honoring veterans at multiple locations, picnicking opportunities on the grounds of the Soldiers’ Home, and tours of the Cottage, the seasonal residence of the Lincoln family during the Civil War. Registration is requested. See the website for more information and a schedule of tours and activities.

National Memorial Day Concert
Where: West lawn of the Capitol
When: Sunday, 8-9:30pm, gates open at 5pm (or Saturday for the dress rehearsal)
Admission: Free
Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2015 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday from 8 – 9:30pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna are hosting the event once again, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the U.S. If you’re planning to go, this FAQ page on the concert website is worth a read. If you can’t make Sunday’s show or don’t want to deal with the crowds, Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public — gates open at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm.

Memorial Day Tour
Where: National Museum of Health & Medicine
When: Monday, 1pm
Admission: Free
The museum dedicated to the history of health and medicine is commemorating Memorial Day with a special program. A free, docent-led tour will offer an overview of the museum’s exhibits, with a special emphasis on advances in military medicine from the Civil War to the present. I should warn: Some exhibits at the museum may not be appropriate for very young children or the faint of heart, as this post about one of our experiences there describes (but for many, it is a very fascinating museum).

Strawberry Fields
Where: Area farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
The PYO season is well underway! Many local farms have opened their strawberry patches to the public, so you can get out there and reap the fruits. See this post for a list of area farms where you can gather your own strawberries, several offering much more than just picking.

Find even more ideas for family fun in these popular KFDC posts:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy A Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors