Tag Archives: DMV Reopening

The Weekend Round-Up: January 21-23

A fusion of art, technology, and music at ARTECHOUSE’s new exhibit

 

Link up to loads of ideas for ongoing and seasonal activities:
* Ice Skating
Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Indoor Outings
* Little Kid Play
Baltimore with Kids
* Stunning Spaces
* Peaceful Places

Washington Auto Show
Where: Washington Convention Center, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12-15/age 13+, $6/age 6-12, free/5 & under

The annual Washington Auto Show revs up this weekend! And if there’s any “grown-up” event that is equally fun for kids and adults, this is it. The Auto Show is like a Truck Touch, but with automobiles — hundreds of them — on display for guests to check out. Other activities like Ride ‘n Drives with Jeep, an Art of Motion exhibit, exotic car display, and Subaru Love Pets area with dogs from local animal shelters will give guests even more to do and see. The show will be in town and running every day through January 30. Get a glimpse and an idea of what to expect in KFDC posts about it here and here.

All Aboard for Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails!
Where: National Children’s Museum | Downtown DC
When: Saturday & Sunday (runs through May 15)
Admission: $15.95/age 1+

The world’s most beloved #1 blue engine will roll into National Children’s Museum this winter for exciting fun and adventure starting this weekend. Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails!, an interactive exhibit inspired by the popular children’s series, includes all kinds of fun activities for kiddos. They can climb into the cab and see the inner workings, fix Percy’s wobbly wheel, explore the Island of Sodor, load coal onto cars, play conductor, and view a Thomas & Friends retrospective featuring model engines, drawings, manuscripts, and other collectibles. Of course there’s even more at the museum to enjoy — read more about it here.

Transient: Impermanent Paintings
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through March 6
Admission: $20-30/adult, $17/age 5-17, free/4 & under

The new digital exhibit at ARTTECHOUSE is a wonderful, vibrant escape from the cold. The fantastic fusion of art, music, and technology includes beautiful floor-to-ceiling projections on walls and floors along with music from a motorized piano that syncs up with the art. Watching the colors and patterns “dance” all around you is delightful, mesmerizing, and relaxing, too. Get a glimpse here.

Seasonal (Covid-Safe) Fun
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place

Don’t let these omicron cold months keep you from getting out around the area. If you’re seeking recs for activities that are outdoors and Covid safe, this round-up is full of suggestions. From hikes to art experiences to seasonal sports to garden explorations to all-season fun, there are all kinds of things to do that keep social distancing and safety in mind. All you really need are good layers and maybe a little extra outdoor gear.

Corduroy
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through January 24
Tickets: $28

How about some family friendly live entertainment?  Based on the books, here’s the description of Imagination Stages current show:  We all need a friend, and Lisa is instantly drawn to the perfectly imperfect teddy bear on display at the department store. If only she can convince her stressed-out mother to buy Corduroy for her! Meanwhile, Corduroy is determined to find his missing button and become worthy of going to a real home. After the store has closed, he goes on a hilariously destructive search–with the Night Watchman in comical pursuit. Full of mischief and clowning, this story of unconditional love captures both the humanity and the merriment of the holiday season. Recommended for ages 3-9.  Proof of vaccination required for patrons 12+.

Ice Skating 
Where: Ice skating rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink

Glide under the sky and stars — or indoors if that’s your preference.  Get your skate on and and art at the Sculpture Garden.  Glide over the Potomac on The Wharf’s awesome rink. Circle around Washington Harbour as you enjoy river views. Meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park. Do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. Or head to an ice arena for some skating out of the elements.  This post has details on alfresco and indoor ice skating options in the area.

Jason Reynolds Book Talk
Where: Busboys and Poets | Columbia, MD
When: Sturday, 4pm
Admission: Free with registration

Author Jason Reynolds will be at Busboys and Poets in Columbia, MD, on Saturday afternoon to discuss and sign his two new books. STUNTBOY, an action packed illustrated novel “about the greatest young superhero you’ve never heard of” (recommended ages 7-12) and AIN’T BURNED ALL THE BRIGHT, a “smash up of art and text for teens that viscerally captures what it is to be Black. In America. Right Now.” (recommended ages 12-99). Reynolds will be joined by a local children’s author, Jessica Hebron aka Culture Queen. After the conversation there will be a quick Q&A, followed by book purchases and signing. Proof of vaccination required for ages 12+. The event will also be livestreamed.

Two-Wheel Time
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free

It will be cold but sunny, so wear some layers and get out for a bike ride — you’ve got your pick of them around the area. Take in the winter scenery, get some exercise, and have fun — all while easily social distancing. This post has a bunch of pedal-worthy recs, with something for riders of all levels.  This one is a particularly great stretch with young kids. And I just wrote about another fun family ride in this week’s Five Things.

The In Crowd
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place

Cold temps may have you seeking indoor fun this weekend.  This post has quick info for places to go, including open days and times, which you should be sure to note, as some venues have temporarily changed them. There are guidelines in place for Covid everywhere, masks are required in DC and some MD counties, and you can/should opt to wear one even without a mandate. Be sure to have proof of vaccination for everyone age 12+ in DC.

Exhibit A… and B, C, & D
Where: Museums around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
There are several great exhibits to experience right now at our local museum. The whole family will be fascinated by FUTURES at the Arts & Industries Building.  Laurie Anderson: The Weather at the Hirshhorn is a great one for tween ages and up.  The Gun Violence Memorial Project at the National Building Museum is powerful and ever-timely. The Fossil Hall at the National Museum of Natural History is always an interesting one to explore.  And, of course, the rest of our Smithsonians have permanent collections that we never get tired of seeing.

Fooduary
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free, but plan to spend on meals, etc.

Fooduary National Harbor is kicking off 2022 with a celebration of food and entertainment! Enjoy prix fixe menus, cooking demonstrations from chefs and bartenders, kits to make meals and more at home, and elevated entertainment that includes The Capital Wheel. Enjoy it all during Fooduary, which runs through January 30. Read more about National Harbor here (note that it’s about a summer visit a few years ago, but many features are still relevant now).

Art & Me Preservation Family Workshop
Where: Online
When: Saturday, 10-10:45am
Admission: Free

Join the Smithsonian’s team of art conservators for a virtual workshop to learn about how temperature affects artworks. From stone sculptures to photographs, discover how Smithsonian conservators preserve and protect these artworks from the elements. Then create your own sculpture and see what happens to it when it freezes. Cohosted by the American Art Museum and National Museum of Asian Art, this hands-on, art-making preservation workshop is designed for children ages three to eight and their caretakers. Sign up here.

Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks around Fairfax County, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity

There are new events from the Fairfax County Park Authority all the time, and this weekend has a fresh batch of nature-inspired activities for guests of all ages. Join an evening campfire at Lake Accotink.  Squirrel around at Lake Fairfax Park. Go on a woodpecker hike at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Details and registration for these and many more nature activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

Watch the Wizards – Kids Day, Too!
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm & Sunday, 3:30pm

Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Wizards have a couple of home games this weekend. See the on court action against the Toronto Raptors at 8pm on Friday and the Boston Celtics on Sunday at 3:30pm. The Sunday game is also a Kids Day, with exciting activities on the 100-level concourse, including caricature and balloon artists, poster coloring, and a photo booth.Plan on a pre-game dinner or lunch in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Oyamel, and Shake Shack.

All Caps
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary

For sports action on ice, catch the Capitals on Saturday afternoon as they host the Ottawa Senators. See the above restaurant recs for a fam-friendly bite before the match.

Hoops U
Where: Colleges around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by game
With so many universities in the area, there’s always some good college hoops action going on during the season — and it’s always a fun time for families. Here are some games to catch this weekend:
* Maryland men vs Illinois on Friday at 7pm (Go, Terps!)
* George Mason women vs La Salle on Friday at 7pm
* American women vs Loyola on Saturday at 2pm
* GWU women vs UMass on Saturday at 2pm
* George Mason men vs Dayton on Saturday at 7pm
* Maryland women vs Northwestern on Sunday at 1pm (Go, Terps!)

Fun, Hon!
Where: Inner Harbor Area | Baltimore, MD
When: All Weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

Head up I-95 for a change of city scenery. Explore the exhibits at Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art ever at the American Visionary Art Museum. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Go to the Baltimore Aquarium. Or view history in the works at the Baltimore Museum of Industry. This KFDC guide has info for all of it, plus even more recommendations for exploring Charm City.

Chill Out(side)
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

I’m a big proponent of getting outdoors, no matter what the weather. And  while this weekend will be cold, it’ll be sunny, so layer up and take advantage. Roam free at Dumbarton Oaks (no admission fee this time of year), the National Arboretum, or Brookside Gardens. Go for a hike at Great Falls, Patapsco Valley State Park, Turkey Run, or another place to hit he trail. Romp on the playground at Watkins, Cabin John, or Clemyjontri Parks. Find even more ideas in this post about great outdoor pursuits with kids — there are tons of al fresco adventures around the area.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* In case you weren’t aware, proof of vaccination is required for entry to many indoor facilities in DC for everyone ages 12+.  (And I read that starting March 1, it will be for ages 5+.)
* There’s lots of good live entertainment coming to local stages over the next couple of months. This post has info so you can save your seats!
* Alexandria Restaurant Week begins this weekend, and Metro Washington Restaurant Week wraps up.
* A great reading challenge from Politics & Prose.
* Just made this — super easy and delish!
* If you’re looking for winter gear for kids, Backcountry has some good deals.
* Proof that everyone is now doing it.

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Filed under 2022, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend, Winter

The Weekend Round-Up: January 14-17

Explore the MLK Memorial in honor of the holiday

 

Quick links to loads of ideas for ongoing activities:
* Ice Skating
Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
Baltimore with Kids
* Indoor Outings
* Little Kid Play
* Stunning Spaces
* Peaceful Places

Celebrate MLK
Where: Around the DMV & Online
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

MLK Day may be on Monday, but there are events and activities that pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. throughout the whole weekend, Volunteer opportunities, art adventures, self-guided tours of local sights, and a few special events are some of the ways you can celebrate the day. This post has details on all of them.

Winter Inspo
Where: Around the DMV
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale

Don’t let this cold, Omicron time keep you from getting out of the house. This post is full of recs for activities that will appeal to your Covid comfort zone. From hikes to art experiences to seasonal sports to garden explorations to all-season fun, there are all kinds of things to do that keep safety in mind. All you really need are good layers and maybe a little extra outdoor gear.

Transient: Impermanent Paintings
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through March 6
Admission: $20-30/adult, $17/age 5-17, free/4 & under

ARTECHOUSE debuts its newest exhibit on Monday.  Their description of  Transient: Impermanent Paintings: “A duet of motorized piano and hyperreal projections combines human and technological elements through a system of unconventional generative algorithms.” Like all of the gallery’s exhibits, this one immerses you in digital art, on floor-to-ceiling walls, the floors, and in side rooms, along with music that syncs up with the works around you.  I just got a sneak peek and really enjoyed it — watching the art “dance” all around you is quite delightful and relaxing.

Ice It
Where: Ice skating rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink

Glide under the sky and stars — or indoors if that’s your preference.  Get your skate on and and art at the Sculpture Garden.  Glide over the Potomac on The Wharf’s awesome rink. Circle around Washington Harbour as you enjoy river views. Meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park. Do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. Or head to an ice arena for some skating out of the elements.  This post has details on alfresco and indoor ice skating options in the area.

It’s All Downhill…
Where: Ski resorts around the region
When: Through winter
Admission: Varies by resort

With winter weather in the forecast this weekend, consider hitting the slopes! Skiing is a fun and active way to take advantage of the season, and there are a bunch of ski resorts within a few hours’ drive that are great for young, newbie skiers (and veteran swooshers, too). This post has info about Whitetail and one of our day trips there last winter. And other relatively close resorts for day trips are Liberty and Bryce.  Farther away, but good to check out for longer trips are Roundtop,  Massanutten,  Wintergreen,  Seven Springs,  Hidden Valley,  Snowshoe,  Timberline, and Wisp.

Serenity Now
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

Sometimes you just want to go someplace that’s pretty and quiet, where you can chill out and think (or not) — especially during this Covidy time. This post has a round-up of of those very places, where you can find peace and calm, all of them right here in the city.

Inside Out(ings)
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place

Weather might have you seeking indoor options at some point this weekend. This post has quick info for places to go, including open days and times, which you should be sure to note, as some venues have temporarily changed them. There are guidelines in place for Covid everywhere, masks are required in DC and some MD counties, and you can/should opt to wear one even without a mandate.

See Some Wizardry
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm & Monday, 2pm

Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Wizards have a couple of home games this weekend — on Saturday evening and Monday afternoon, when kids are off school and many parents have the day off work. See the on court action against the Portland Trail Blazers at 7pm on Saturday and the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday at 2pm. Plan on a pre-game dinner or lunch in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Oyamel, and Shake Shack.

All Caps
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Sunday, 2pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary

For sports action on ice, catch the Capitals on Sunday afternoon as they host the Vancouver Canuckss. See the above restaurant recs for a fam-friendly bite before the match.

College Hoops
Where: Colleges around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by game
With so many universities in the area, there’s always some good college hoops action going on during the season — and it’s always a good time for families. Here are a few games to catch this weekend:
* Howard men vs Norfolk State o Saturday at 4pm
* American men vs Bucknell o Satrday at 2pm
* Maryland women vs Michigan on Sunday at 5pm (Go, Terps!)
* Howard men vs Notre Dame on Monday at 2:30pm

Corduroy
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through January 24
Tickets: $28

How about some family friendly live entertainment?  Based on the books, here’s the description of Imagination Stages current show:  We all need a friend, and Lisa is instantly drawn to the perfectly imperfect teddy bear on display at the department store. If only she can convince her stressed-out mother to buy Corduroy for her! Meanwhile, Corduroy is determined to find his missing button and become worthy of going to a real home. After the store has closed, he goes on a hilariously destructive search–with the Night Watchman in comical pursuit. Full of mischief and clowning, this story of unconditional love captures both the humanity and the merriment of the holiday season. Recommended for ages 3-9.  Proof of vaccination required for patrons 12+.

The Prom
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through January 16
Tickets: $49-139 | Find Discount
Everyone’s invited to the joyous Broadway musical that inspired the hit Netflix adaptation. New York Magazine calls it “smart and big-hearted” and The New York Times says the show “makes you believe in musical comedy again!” The Prom is a new musical comedy about big Broadway stars on a mission to change the world and the love they discover that unites them all. You belong at The Prom! Recommended for ages 10+.

Baltimore, Hon!
Where: All Around Charm City | Baltimore, MD
When: All Weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

The long weekend is a great time for a day trip (or even overnight) to Baltimore — there are so many great family-friendly attraction there, you may want an extra day to enjoy a few. Explore the exhibits at Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art ever at the American Visionary Art Museum. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. View history in the works at the Baltimore Museum of Industry. And even more! This KFDC guide has the scoop.

Go Underground
Where: Luray Caverns | Luray, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $30/adults, $15/ages 6-12, free/5 & under 

Behold the spectacular underground world of stalagmites, stalactites, and other amazing limestone formations in the massive cave system at Luray. Afterward, make your way through the Garden Maze or check out vintage rides in the Carriage and Caravan Museum. Admission does not include attractions beyond the cavern. KFDC Tip: Be sure to make a pit stop before going into the caverns, because it can be a long walk out to a restroom, and once you’re out, you may not be able to go back in.

Art & Maritime Explorations
Where: Calvert County, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

Make a day of it in Calvert County, where you can visit a couple of places for fun, fascinating, hands-on adventures. Annmarie Sculpture Garden is hosting a special art project in honor of MLK. you can also tour beautiful works around the grounds and indoors, and play in the delightful Fairy Lolly.  Also out that way is the Calvert Marine Museum, where you can see interesting exhibits, including display cases full of fossils and artifacts, plus live fish and other creatures. There’s also a play area and a real lighthouse to tour. Hours are 10am – 5pm with two -hours sessions 10am – 12pm, 12:30-2:30pm, and 3-5pm, and admission is $9/adult, $4/ages 5-12, free/4 & under.

African American History & Culture
Where: NMAAHC | National Mall, DC
When: Monday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free, but timed entry passes required

Tickets to the National Museum of African American History & Culture can be some of toughest to get in DC. But this weekend, the museum, which is usually closed on Mondays, will be open an extra day in honor of MLK Day. Currently, there are lots of tickets available for many time slots, but they’ll likely go quickly.

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Monday
Admission: Free!

In honor of MLK Day, it’s the first fee free day of the year for national parks, which means there’s no cost for entry where they usually charge to get in. Take advantage of complimentary admission and the day off from school. Some ideas: Hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, explore Prince William Forest Park, go to Fort McHenry in Baltimore, or enjoy hiking and history at Harpers Ferry. Find even more national parks around the area and beyond.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Get in a visit to the National Gallery of Art East Building soon — it will be closed for renovations (again) after February.
* Ice Cream Jubilee is offering its Lunar New Year Ice Tasting Flight, which inclues six mini scoops and a pint to take home through February 13.
* If you’re comfortable doing it, this weekend is a good time to see a movie.
* Movie for adults: I just saw this, and it was as wonderful as all the reviews say.
* These episodes of The Daily are a good listen: This and this.
Needed a new one, so just ordered this — might come in handy this weekend!
* Symptoms of the new variant may include…

 

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. This helps me continue to bring you KFDC. Thanks so much for the support!

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Filed under 2022, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend, Winter

The Weekend Round-Up: January 7-9

 

Go-to posts for all kinds of ongoing and seasonal local activities:
* Ice Skating
Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
Baltimore with Kids
* Indoor Outings
* Little Kid Play
* Stunning Spaces
* Peaceful Places

Winter Inspo
Where: Around the DMV
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale

Don’t let the Covid cold months keep you from getting out around the area. This round-up is full of recs for  activities,  from hikes to art experiences to seasonal sports to garden explorations to all-season fun, all of them taking place outdoors if that is your preference right now.  There are even suggestions for the snow. All you really need are good layers and maybe a little extra outdoor gear.

Recreation on Ice
Where: Ice skating rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink

Glide under the sky and stars — or indoors if that’s your preference.  Take in art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden.  Glide over the Potomac on The Wharf’s awesome rink. Circle around Washington Harbour as you enjoy river views. Meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park. Do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. Or head to an ice arena for some skating out of the elements.  This post has details on alfresco and indoor ice skating options in the area.

Hit the Slopes
Where: Ski resorts around the region
When: Through winter
Admission: Varies by resort

With this winter weather, it’s a good time to hit the slopes! Skiing is always fun and active way to take advantage of the season. And there are a bunch of ski resorts within a few hours’ drive that are great for young, newbie skiers (and veteran swooshers, too). This post has info about Whitetail and one of our day trips there last winter. And other relatively close resorts for day trips are Liberty and Bryce.  Farther away, but good to check out for longer trips are Roundtop,  Massanutten,  Wintergreen,  Seven Springs,  Hidden Valley,  Snowshoe,  Timberline, and Wisp.

Inside Info
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place

With a lot of snow on the ground, you may be looking for indoor options (if you’re comfortable with that right now).  There are guidelines in place for Covid everywhere, masks are required in DC and some MD counties, and  you can opt to wear one even without a mandate.  Something to note:  The Smithsonian has temporarily reduced hours and days at some museums — this post indicates where and when along with info for other places to go.

Word Up
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free

Tickets are available for this weekend to the museum all about language.  Full of fun and interesting exhibits, most of them interactive, I highly recommend a visit. There are elements that all ages will love, though tweens and older will get the most out of it, having more grammar lessons under their belts and generally better comprehension. Our whole family loves it! Admission is free, but you need to reserve timed-entry passes ahead.

Corduroy
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through January 24
Tickets: $28

How about some family friendly live entertainment?  Based on the books, here’s the description of Imagination Stages current show:  We all need a friend, and Lisa is instantly drawn to the perfectly imperfect teddy bear on display at the department store. If only she can convince her stressed-out mother to buy Corduroy for her! Meanwhile, Corduroy is determined to find his missing button and become worthy of going to a real home. After the store has closed, he goes on a hilariously destructive search–with the Night Watchman in comical pursuit. Full of mischief and clowning, this story of unconditional love captures both the humanity and the merriment of the holiday season. Recommended for ages 3-9.  Proof of vaccination required for patrons 12+.

Nature Calling
Where: Nature centers around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free

If you want to get a dose of the outside world in the comfort of the indoors head to a nature center. There are several great ones around the area that offer engaging exhibits, including live creatures. Buddie Ford Nature Center in Alexandria, Watkins in Upper Marlboro, Potomac Overlook in Arlington, Long Branch in Falls Church, and Brookside in Silver Spring all make for a great outing. (Be sure to confirm they are open before you go during inclement weather.)

Saturday Morning Live
Where: Online, YouTube, and Facebook

When: Saturday 9:30 – 10:00 AM EST
Admission: Free

The National Theatre’s Saturday Morning Live! program presents Happy Soup. From the coziness of your home, you are invited to gather with Natasha and Tia (a pair of very silly humans) to cook up a Happy Soup! They have the recipe, but they need YOUR creativity to bring all of these special and surprising ingredients together for the world. There will be antics, there will be teamwork, there will be HAPPY SOUP!

(W)Hoop it Up!
Where: Colleges around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary

With so many universities in the area, there’s always some good college hoops action going on during the season — and it’s always a good time for families. Here are a few games to catch this weekend:
* Georgetown men vs Maquette on Friday at 6:30pm
* George Mason men vs. St. Joseph’s on Saturday at 4pm
* Maryland men vs Wisconsin on Sunday at 7:30pm

The Prom
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through January 16
Tickets: $49-139 | Find Discount
Everyone’s invited to the joyous Broadway musical that inspired the hit Netflix adaptation. New York Magazine calls it “smart and big-hearted” and The New York Times says the show “makes you believe in musical comedy again!” The Prom is a new musical comedy about big Broadway stars on a mission to change the world and the love they discover that unites them all. You belong at The Prom! Recommended for ages 10+.

Dinosaur World Live
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: Sunday, 4pm
Tickets: $24-58

Take a t. rex for a walk or groom a microraptor! Dinosaur World Live takes your family on an adventure across unchartered territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favorite flesh-eating giant, the tyrannosaurus rex! Plus, special appearances by triceratops, giraffatitan, segnosaurus, and more. Stick around after the show for the dino meet and greet!

Charm City, Hon!
Where: Inner Harbor Area | Baltimore, MD
When: All Weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

Head up I-95 for a change of scenery and some fantastic family attractions in Baltimore! Explore the exhibits at Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art ever at the American Visionary Art Museum. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. View history in the works at the Baltimore Museum of Industry . And much more!

Serenity Now
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

Sometimes you just want to go someplace that’s pretty and quiet, where you can chill out and think (or not) — especially during this Covidy time. This post has a round-up of of those very places, where you can find peace and calm, all of them right here in the city.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* This post about local volunteer opportunities with kids can help you plan for the MLK Day of Service coming up on January 17.
* If you want to catch some live entertainment this winter, check out this round-up of what’s coming to local stages.
* The 30 Best Movies for Kids on Netflix, according to Vulture.
* And a good one for grown ups that we just watched.
* This twenty twenty stew sounds yummy and easy to make.
* A great, convenient service for parents to keep in mind.
* Newest part of my morning routine. Who else?
* Has the painter seen a baby? 😂
* A note of reassurance from your school district regarding our updated omicron policies. 😉
* Proof that time flies when you’re having fun ❤️

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Filed under 2022, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend, Winter

The Weekend: December 31 – January 2

Kick off 2022 with a nice hike! (Turkey Run Park pictured here)

 

Once again, I’m taking a little break and keeping it simple as we wind down 2021. Not to mention, with Omicron spreading like wildfire, there aren’t many special events and activities happening this weekend.  The links below will still lead you to info and inspo to fill the next few days with as much (or little) activity as you want, including holiday happenings and ongoing and seasonal fun. You can also check KFDC on Instagram and Facebook for any updates or extra ideas that might arise.

Happy Weekend! And a very Happy New Year to all!

The 2021 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season in DC

Chill Time: Activities Around DC During the Covid Winter

Where to Go and What to Do Around DC During Winter Break 2021

Ice Skating Around the DC Area

Walks in the Woods

Serenity Now: 10 Places to Find Peace and Calm in DC

Ride On: Bike Routes for Everyone Around the DC Area

The Best Places in the DC Area to Spend A Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

Live Entertainment Around the DC Area in Late Fall & Winter (Some show may be cancelled.)

Baltimore with Kids

Indoor Outings

 

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***

The Noon Yards Eve event at Yards Park has been cancelled.

The Washington Post’s annual list of what’s in and what’s out for the year ahead.

New Year’s Eve finger foods, many that sound perfect for an at-home celebration with the fam.

Toast-worthy cocktails to ring in the new year.

New Year’s traditions around the world.

20 best places to travel in 2022, according to Travel + Leisure.

Ten noteworthy books for January.

Some great sales going on right now:  Anthro, Nordstrom, Gap, Everlane.

A fantastic movie available to rent this weekend.

For the whole fam: Best kids’ movies of 2021 that parents will also love.

Omicron is the Beginning of the End (we hope!).

McSweeney’s most read articles of 2021.  (#15 had me in lol tears.)

22 things to look forward to in 2022 🙂

 

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Filed under 2021, 2022, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend: December 24-26

 

This is the time of year I give myself a little break with weekend posts.  So, just like the modified title, I’m keeping this round-up simple — but definitely not leaving you hanging. The links below will still lead you to info and inspo galore to fill the next few days with as much (or little) activity as you want, including holiday happenings and ongoing and seasonal fun. You can also check KFDC on Instagram and Facebook for any updates or extra ideas that might arise.

Merry Christmas to all… and to all a Happy Weekend!

 

The 2021 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season in DC

Chill Time: Activities Around DC During the Covid Winter

Where to Go and What to Do Around DC During Winter Break 2021

Ice Skating Around the DC Area

Walks in the Woods

Serenity Now: 10 Places to Find Peace and Calm in DC

Ride On: Bike Routes for Everyone Around the DC Area

The Best Places in the DC Area to Spend A Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

Live Entertainment Around the DC Area in Late Fall & Winter

Indoor Outings

 

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***

I can’t say enough… go get vaccinated or boosted if you haven’t yet.  As mentioned earlier this week, walk-up vaccinations for ages 5+ and boosters for ages 16+ are available nearly every day in DC at select libraries and rec centers (not on Christmas Day). You can also go here to search for other locations near you.

Two of our recent orders from Amazon that I recommend for everyone: These and these.

Need some very last minute gift ideas?  The KFDC Holiday Gift Guide has loads of suggestions for local experiences or subscriptions you get in just a few clicks!

Inspiring people:  2021 Washingtonians of the Year.

A very yummy  looking/sounding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Menu.

Sasha gives two big thumbs-up to Spider-Man: No Way Home.

The year in sound, from The Daily.

The 22 best podcasts to help you process the end of 2021.

A beautiful tribute to one of the best at the Kennedy Center Honors.

Love the pure joy of this moment.

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Filed under 2021, DC, Holidays, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend