Tag Archives: February 2022

February 25, 2022 · 8:27 am

The Weekend Round-Up:
February 25-27

 

How to support the people in Ukraine.
This was originally included in the “More Good Stuff” section, but the lead rec in this round-up seems like a better, more appropriate spot.

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

Off the Beaten Museum Path
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by museum
There’s a brand new post about great museums for kids off the well trodden path of the National Mall. If you don’t veer from it now and then, you could miss out on some other amazing exhibits and experiences that aren’t as well known. Check out this round-up of some museums in DC that may not be on your museum radar — but should be.

Seasonal Al Fresco
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Don’t let the cold months keep you from getting out around the area. This round-up is full of recs for activities that are outside and accessible. From cool hikes to art experiences to seasonal sports to garden explorations to year-round fun, there are all kinds of things to in the fresh air. All you really need is the right apparel and maybe a little extra outdoor gear.

Virtual Open House
Where: Silver Oaks Cooperative School Online
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
Are you interested in learning about a unique elementary school option in Montgomery County? On Saturday, Silver Oaks Cooperative School is hosting a Virtual Open House to share information about its K-5 programs for the 2022-23 school year! Find out more and register here.

P.Nokio: A Hip-Hop Musical 
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $28
Imagination Stage’s newest show opens this weekend! G.Petto is an ingenious computer games designer who one day discovers that his newest game character, P.Nokio, can live outside the computer! G.Petto is thrilled at the prospect of having a “son,” and with the help of the Graffiti Fairy, he teaches P.Nokio how to become a real boy. But, P.Nokio falls in with con artists and finds himself in a web of lies that endangers his father. To save G.Petto, P.Nokio must wise up, keep it real, and learn that words and truth are the mightiest weapons of all. It’s a completely contemporary, high-energy musical update of the beloved classic Pinocchio!

Mardi Gars at the Wharf
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 3-7pm
Admission: Free
Laissez les bons temps rouler! The Wharf is bringing a taste of New Orleans to DC with its annual Mardi Gras celebration. A spirited parade with fanciful floats and musical groups will roll down Wharf Street, followed by a dance party with live music on District Pier, and a special fireworks finale. Bring the kiddos — it’s a family-friendly event — and make sure to get there early to secure the best spot to view the parade.

Black History Activities
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout February (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
There are many great events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate Black History Month — during this last weekend of February and beyond. Museum programs, guided and self-guided tours, visits to significant sites, and more are enlightening and entertaining for all ages.

Vamos United!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 6pm
Admission: Tickets start at $30
Soccer season begins this weekend as the DC United play their first match at home against Charlotte Football Club. Tickets are still available to cheer on the black and red! I recommend taking public transportation since parking can be difficult. Or park in the Navy Yard neighborhood (Audi Field is a short walk from there) and plan on a bite before or after the game — El Bebe, The Salt Line, and All Purpose are very convenient and my top recs for family-friendly spots to eat there.

(Geo)Cache in on Fun
Where: Around the Area
When: Anytime
Admission: Free
Take kids on a “treasure” hunt and have a little adventure along the way. Geocaching is a perfect way to be active and enjoy a day outdoors. Whether you search in the city or seek out a destination that requires a hike in the woods, locating the hidden cache will be a thrill for everyone. See this post about our first foray into the pursuit awhile back.

Take a Hike
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
The recommendation to hit the trail is a staple in these round-ups.  And this weekend will be a great time to do it. Enjoy the sunshine, take in pretty scenery, maybe explore local history or spy some wildlife. You can even work in some geocaching!  This post has a a bunch of recommendations for places to tramp with kids. Some specific recs for right now:  The National Arboretum in Northeast DC has lots of little trails and beautiful plant collections; head out to Harpers Ferry for hiking and history; include some Black History in your outing on the  Underground Railroad Experience Trail; walk in the woods at Pohick Bay Regional Park.

The Icing on the Skate
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
There are only a couple of weeks left to skate under the sky, so take advantage while you can — especially over what should be a nice, sunny weekend! Take in art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; circle around Washington Harbour as you enjoy river views; meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park; or do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Veteran’s Plaza, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on alfresco (and indoor) ice skating options in the area.

Make Way for Ducklings 
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Eco Park, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $25
Catch a show at children’s theatre in Glen Echo Park.  Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are exhausted from their search for a starter home when they land in the Boston Public Garden as a potential home. Surprised by a few conditions in the Garden, the Mallards move on to continue their search until their baby ducklings are born. When the ducklings begin to explore the world around them. The challenges of parenthood in the busy Boston environment create a fun bit of family drama. A classic story for all ages, this world premiere musical celebrates family, Boston, children, and the beings who make an unfamiliar place a home. Recommended for all ages.

Rapunzel on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15
Rapunzel is still letting down her hair in this puppet version of the fairy tale at The Puppet Co., a charming retelling performed by just one person! Princesses can be named after vegetables, witches can have good intentions, and sometimes you need a little song to help you get you through your day. Recommended for ages 4+. Run time is approximately 40 minutes.

Intersect with the Performing Arts
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center | H Street NE, DC
When: Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Varies – see the website
The Atlas’ annual INTERSECTIONS festival is back after a two-year hiatus due to Covid. The event presents an array tons of performances in music, theatre, dance, film, and spoken word. While previous years have included several events especially for families and kids, they aren’t including those focused activities this time around. However, there are performances that kids could certainly enjoy along with parents. See the schedule of them here.

Omnium Circus: I’mPossible
where: Capital One Hall, Tysons, VA
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Tickets start at $35 (look for a deal!)
I’m Possible” is the story of young boy who has a dream to join the circus. He confronts a world full of challenges and through a death defying, awe inspiring, madcap circus adventure discovers the strength, courage and perseverance that changes his life forever. Omnium means of all and belonging to all- presenting the best in family circus entertainment—inclusive of all and accessible to all at every performance.

Goodnight Moon Room
Where: Torpedo Factory | Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Through March 13
Admission: Free
In the great green room (in a gallery at the Torpedo Factory), there was a telephone, and a red balloon, and a picture of — the cow jumping over the moon! The Goodnight Moon Room , an immersive storybook installation on view at the art center in Old Town Alexandria, is only on view through March 13.  The re-creation of the room from the beloved children’s book is a delight to see brought to life in the little gallery space. Be sure to explore the rest of the Torpedo Factory while you’re there — the many galleries welcome visitors to view and shop the art. There are all kinds of works in a variety of mediums with something that all ages will dig. Get a glimpse of it all here.

Go East
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
This weekend is your last chance to go National Gallery of Art East Building before it closes for renovations for a few months. The wing housing the museum’s modern and contemporary collections is often most appealing to kids, with colorful paintings and works that are interesting, even whimsical and fun to view (think the giant blue cockerel on the roof and Calder’s mobiles).  Of course, the West Building is wonderful, too, and will remain open.

The Ins & Outs of DC
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
Want even more options for fun things to do with the kids around the area? If you’re looking for activities outdoors or inside, depending on the weather or simply your preference, these posts are chock full of ongoing pursuits:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Another good cause to support.
* How you might be affected by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
* Images from Ukraine.
* Mo Willems will be back with LUNCH DOODLES Variant Edition this Tuesday, March 1, at 1pm.
* From the Washington Post, 10 restaurants where it’s fun to eat outdoors with kids.
* Right?

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February 18, 2022 · 9:30 am

The Weekend Round-Up: February 18-21

 

 

Happy Presidents Day Weekend!

Quick links to posts full of ideas for ongoing & seasonal activities:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Covid Winter Activities
* Indoor Outings
* Ice Skating
* Little Kid Play
* Baltimore with Kids
* Bike Rides
* Stunning Spaces
* Peaceful Places

Hang Out at George’s Place
Where: Mount Vernon Estate | Mount Vernon, VA
When: Throughout the Weekend
Admission: $28/adult, $15/age 6-11, free/5 & under 
What better place to visit over Presidents Day weekend than our first POTUS’ former home?  While Mount Vernon is neat to explore anytime, George’s 290th birthday is a good occasion to go.  Tour the expansive grounds with original buildings,  the mansion where he lived, and the Education Center full of interesting exhibits about Washington’s life and colonial times.  Enjoy the sunny weather outside as you take in views of the Potomac River from the backyard.  Note that Monday (when admission is free) is already sold out, BUT there is also free admission on Tuesday, if you can swing a weekday visit.

Stop by Abe’s Old Digs
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 9:30am – 4:30pm
Admission: $15/adult, $5/ages 6-12, free for 5 and under
A great way to honor our 16th prez is with a visit to his “summer” house.  Located on the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) campus in Petworth, the cottage was Abraham Lincoln’s country home and workplace, where he spent one quarter of his presidency. Admission includes the Cottage tour, an innovative small group tour in which a professional guide uses “historical voices” and images through multimedia technology to bring the stories of Abraham Lincoln and his family to life.

Great Backyard Bird Count
Where: Outdoors around the DC Area (or anywhere)
When: Through Monday
Admission: Depends on where you go
Each February, for four days, the world comes together for the love of birds. Over these days, people are invited to spend time in their favorite places watching and counting as many birds as they can find and report them to the Great Backyard Bird Count. The observations help scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations. Participating is easy — learn more about it here.

A Monumental Experience
Where: Washington Monument | National Mall, DC
When: Daily, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Free
For a “presidential” pursuit this holiday weekend, the Washington Monument is super fun to tour.  You can go up inside to check out interesting exhibits and take in DC views. Advance reservation tickets for the next day are available online for a nominal processing fee. Same-day, free tickets are also be available on a first-come, first-served basis daily starting at 8:30am at the Washington Monument Lodge, located on 15th Street NW, between Madison Drive NW.  Get a glimpse from the inside here.

Celebrate Black History
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout February (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are many great events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs, guided and self-guided tours, visits to significant sites, story time sessions, special exhibits, and more will be enlightening, enriching, and entertaining for all.

Learn about Lincoln’s Last Days
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Daily, 9am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free – $3
Ford’s Theatre isn’t just a place to catch live entertainment. The site of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination highlights its historic significance through exhibits about the president, the circumstances surrounding his assassination, and that fateful night at the theatre. The National Historic Site features a museum, theatre walk-throughs and a presentation, and guests are welcome to explore it all. Best for about ages 8 and up. Reserve tickets online in advance for $3 or get them at the Box Office for free.

Goodnight Moon Room
Where: Torpedo Factory | Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 6pm
Admission: Free
In the great green room (in a gallery at the Torpedo Factory), there was a telephone, and a red balloon, and a picture of — the cow jumping over the moon! The Goodnight Moon Room , an immersive storybook installation on view at the art center in Old Town Alexandria, is only on view through March 13.  The re-creation of the room from the beloved children’s book is a delight to see brought to life in the little gallery space. Be sure to explore the rest of the Torpedo Factory while you’re there — the many galleries welcome visitors to view and shop the art. There are all kinds of works in a variety of mediums with something that all ages will dig. Get a glimpse of it all here.

Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through Monday
Tickets: Prices start at $20
Don’t just watch ice dancing in the Olympics on TV; get a rink side seat to see it in person!  Mickey and 50 of your favorite Disney friends come to life through world-class ice skating. Get ready for show-stopping stunts and non-stop fun — all on ice.

Make Way for Ducklings 
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Eco Park, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $25
It’s opening weekend for this show at Adventure Theatre!  Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are exhausted from their search for a starter home when they land in the Boston Public Garden as a potential home. Surprised by a few conditions in the Garden, the Mallards move on to continue their search until their baby ducklings are born. When the ducklings begin to explore the world around them. The challenges of parenthood in the busy Boston environment create a fun bit of family drama. A classic story for all ages, this world premiere musical celebrates family, Boston, children, and the beings who make an unfamiliar place a home. Recommended for all ages.

Rapunzel on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15
Rapunzel is still letting down her hair in this puppet version of the fairy tale at The Puppet Co., a charming retelling performed by just one person! Princesses can be named after vegetables, witches can have good intentions, and sometimes you need a little song to help you get you through your day. Recommended for ages 4+. Run time is approximately 40 minutes.

Cool Hikes
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Sunny days are in the forecast, so make a plan to hit the trail.  This post has a bunch of recommendations for good places to go with kids. Some specific recs for this weekend: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve in Mclean, VA; Roosevelt Island within the Potomac River in DC; Fountain Regional Park in Fairfax Station, VA; Sugarloaf Mountain (plus a great après hike spot) in Dickerson, MD.

Word Up
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
I saw that some passes are still available for Friday and Monday to visit Planet Word, the outstanding museum all about language.  It’s full of fun and interesting exhibits, most of them interactive, with something for all ages to enjoy — including wonderful bits of magic. Our whole family loves it! Admission is free, but you need to reserve timed-entry passes

FUTURES
Where: Arts & Industries Building | National Mall, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The Smithsonian Arts & Industries Building reopened last fall — with a fascinating exhibition, to boot!  FUTURES spans 32,000 square feet inside, and it’s full of large-scale installations, displays, and interactives that are exciting, powerful, and thought-provoking as they offer a glimpse of future possibilities — and prompt us to wonder how we can contribute. It’s an exhibition for everyone and all ages, and one to put on your must-visit list! Get a glimpse of it here.

Orchids Galore
Where: Kogod Courtyard | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 11:30am – 7pm
Admission: Free
See several hundred varieties of orchids making the already stunning Kogod Courtyard, at the center of the National Portrait Gallery and American Art, even more so.  Orchids: Hidden Stories of Groundbreaking Women is the annual orchid exhibit presented by the U.S. Botanic Garden and Smithsonian Gardens. View the flowers alongside stories of women with notable connections to orchids — horticulturalists, scientists, painters, and more. Bring along some pencils and paper for sketching.  And, of course, plan to tour the museums, too — see more about both here and here.

Transient: Impermanent Paintings
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through March 6
Admission: $20-30/adult, $17/age 5-17, free/4 & under (Get a deal!)
The current digital exhibit at ARTECHOUSE is a fantastic, vibrant escape from the winter world outside. 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.

George Washington Birthday Parade
Where: Old Town Alexandria, Kind & Royal Streets
When: Monday, 1-3pm
Admission: Free
Alexandria hosts the largest parade in the country celebrating George Washington’s birthday with marching bands, historic re-enactment troops, and more. Watch the procession as it travel through Old Town Alexandria. See the website for more info and route details. KFDC Tip:  Plan to visit the Goodnight Moon Room (listed above) at the Torpedo Factory while you’re in the area!

Alif Ba, Thomas & Friends, & Special Hours
Where: National Children’s Museum | Downtown DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15.95/age 1+
It’s your last chance to experience the Arabic alphabet brought to life through touch and sound as the Alif Ba Exhibition is about to close. Also check out the new Thomas & Friends exhibit, a can’t-miss for kiddos who adore the tank engine. And, of course, explore all of the other STEAM inspired fun while you’re there. And FYI: The Museum will be open with special hours on Monday, 2/21; Tuesday, 2/22; and Wednesday, 2/23.

Hoops, NCAA-Style
Where: Universities around the DC Area
When: Throughout the break
Admission: Ticket prices vary
With so many universities in the area, there’s always some good college hoops action going on. Here’s where you can check out schedules and look for tickets:
* American men vs Army on Saturday at 2pm
* GMU women vs VCU on Saturday at 3pm
* Howard women vs Morgan State on Saturday at 4pm
* GWU men vs Rhode Island on Saturday at 6pm
* Maryland men vs Penn State on Monday at 7pm – Get a deal! (Go, Terps!)

Ice It 
Where: Ice skating rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
Enjoy some quintessential seasonal fun: Ice skating! Get your skate and art on 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. Check out this post with info for ice rinks — outdoors and in — around the area.

Member Story Time in the Great Hall
Where: National Building Museum | Juidiciary Square, DC
When: Monday, 11:30am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Members of the NationalBuilding Museum are invited to the Great Hall for a reading of Brick: Who Found Herself in Architecture by Joshua David Stein. Young readers will be sure to love this story about a young brick and her adventure around the world. After the reading, members can head to the Museum Shop to purchase their own copy of the book for 25% off. [Note: If you’re not a member of the NBM, it’s a good time to look into it. Totally worth it if you visit the museum exhibits (including Play Work Build for kids!) more than a couple of times a year.]

The Great Indoors
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
I haven’t highlighted this list of over 100 activities and places to go around DC that are inside since probably pre-Covid. Programming has changed at many, and some are even temporarily closed, so I’ve been redirecting here. BUT, the post apparently got some attention recently, so here it is highlighted again — with updates to reflect current statuses. Something to note about this list: We have been to nearly every single place on it (and if we haven’t been to an actual place, like one of the roller skating rinks or indoor tennis courts, we have at least done the activity at one of the others). This is all to say the recommendations come from real experience!

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* In case you missed it earlier this week, there’s a new post about the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, one of the coolest museums in DC that most people don’t even know exists.
* DC Way is offering February Break soccer camp this coming week, and registration is also open for summer camp.
* New shows are coming to local stages in late winter — see a round-up of them with links to reserve your seats!
* Some good sales this holiday weekend: J.Crew, Hanna Andersson, Backcountry, Target.
* Somebody, Somewhere on HBO Max is kind of my new Ted Lasso — so funny, moving, and heartwarming.
* The recent Armchair Expert episode featuring Kristen Bell is a great listen. (PS: It promotes her new show The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window,  a fun, suspenseful watch (every time she pours a glass of wine makes me LOL.)
* Love the new Scrollworthy series from Upworthy.

 

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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February 16, 2022 · 10:01 am

Five Things for Today: February 16, 2022

 

1. Get your Petal Porches ready for the National Cherry Blossom Festival!  For the second year, residents in DC and surrounding communities in Maryland and Virginia are invited to decorate their front yards, porches, and windows to show their cherry blossom spirit during the Festival’s run, March 20-April 17.  This event started last year as a pivot when some of the Festival’s annual events were canceled due to Covid. This year, there will also be awards for Best Blossom Block (for a block of participating porches), Prime Petal Porches (for 10 porches in the DMV) and the People’s Petal Porch (voted by Instagram poll and awarded to one porch). A digital map with the locations of all registered Petal Porches will be made available, so we can all get in on the fun and do some Petal Porch viewing.  We loved seeing all of the decorations around our neighborhood last year!  More info and registration available here.

 

2. A fun activity for Black History Month:  Mt. Pleasant Library is hosting a collective art project that all are welcome to join.  Lend your creativity to the Alma Thomas Interactive Mural by adding strips of colored paper to a wall-sized mosaic inspired by Thomas’ art.  And plan to hang out after and explore books and more activities — our local libraries are great places to spend time with kids (as discussed in that linked post from the very early KFDC days)!   Mt. Pleasant Library is located at 3160 16th Street Northwest.  It’s open daily, but check the website for hours as they vary by day.   Admission is free.  PS:  There are always events and activities for all ages at all of the DC Public Libraries — view the full calendar or search for specific types here.

 

3. Thrillist’s most beautiful places to visit in Virginia.

 

4. Just finished reading Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead – and it was fantastic (and long)!  Deciding among these for my next read: Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout, Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Patrick Radden Keefe, and Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted by Suleika Jaouad.  Have you read any of them?  Input or other recommendations?

 

5. Best part of the Super Bowl!😂 (Warning: turn volume down.)

 

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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February 11, 2022 · 8:59 am

The Weekend Round-Up: February 11-13

Goodnight Room!

 

Happy Weekend!

Quick links to posts full of ideas for ongoing & seasonal activities:

* Covid Winter Activities
* Indoor Outings
* Little Kid Play
* Ice Skating
* Baltimore with Kids
* Stunning Spaces
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Peaceful Places

Feel the Love
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Love is in the air — and at places all around DC this weekend!  Events and activities to celebrate Valentine’s Day range from card making to nature programs to a cooking class to walking tours. And they’re sure to be especially sweet. A few are listed below and this post has details on all of them.

Goodnight Moon Room
Where: Torpedo Factory | Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 6pm
Admission: Free
In the great green room (in a gallery at the Torpedo Factory), there was a telephone, and a red balloon, and a picture of — the cow jumping over the moon! The Goodnight Moon Room is an immersive storybook installation on view at the art center in Old Town Alexandria, a gallery recreating the room in the beloved children’s book. Any kid or adult who’s heard or read the book 5,372 times (because we all have, right??) will be delighted to see it brought to life in the little space. And be sure to explore the rest of the Torpedo Factory while you’re there — the many galleries welcome visitors to view and shop the art. There are all kinds of works in a variety of mediums with something that all ages will dig. Get a glimpse of it all here.

Acoustics and Ales
Where: Germantown Town Center Urban Park | Germantown, VA
When: Friday, 5-7:30pm
Admission: Free, but pay for food & drinks 
Adults and children are welcome to warm up and have fun at Montgomery Parks’ Acoustic and Ales winter happy hour series! Enjoy an evening of live music, lawn games, locally crafted beer, and food. Food, beer, and non alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. This will be held at four different park over the next few weeks, so plan for another time if you can’t make it this weekend.

Opt Outside
Where: Around the DMZ
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
On 60-degree days in February, getting outside is practically required.  And there are loads of ways to enjoy the outdoors around the area. See The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids for ideas on where to have al fresco adventures.

Celebrate Black History
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout February (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are many great events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs, guided and self-guided tours, visits to significant sites, story time sessions, special exhibits, and more will be enlightening, enriching, and entertaining for all.

Valentine Maker’s Market
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Saturday, 9am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Find thoughtful and handmade gifts for all the sweeties in your life at this Valentine Maker’s Market. Shop a variety of options, including small batch chocolates, jewelry, leather goods, pottery, clothing, and much more! You will find vendors offering a wide selection of homemade, handmade or homegrown products, and every vendor is from the DEL-MAR-VA region. Be sue to tour the grounds, check out the Arts Center inside, and take kids to play in the Fairy Lolly while you’re there — it’s all fantastic. Read more about Annmarie Sculpture garden here and here.

Moonshot Studio
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The Moonshot Studio within The REACH is once again welcoming visitors to enjoy hands-on activities. From beat making to abstract portraiture and more, all ages can explore and create. Each weekend features one activity; this one you can try your hand at one making shadow puppets! Reserve a table for a group of 2-4 people!

Sir Rulean’s Valentine’s Day Card Soiree
Where: The Station at Riverdale | Riverdale, MD
When: Saturday, 1-3pm
Admission: Free
Join The Station for this family friendly Valentine’s Day Card Soiree in Bear Square. Decorate and design your own cards with glitter pens, gems, and The Station branded Sir Rulean stickers for someone you love. After participating in the event, redeem a coupon for complimentary hot cocoa made with love by Starbucks at The Station.

Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Train Station | Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free (donations accepted)
Is it time to get out and see something fun past “Zoom” sessions?  Stop by the Vienna Train Station for great family fun and activity for the young and young at heart. Visit the museum full of train memorabilia at this open house hosted by the Northern Virginia Model Railroaders.  The Station is located at 231 Dominion Road NE, along the W&OD trail just past the Caboose.

Unshrink My Heart – Shrinky Dinks Workshop
Where: Gateway Arts Center | Brentwood, MD
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Free
The DIY arts and crafts icon from the 80’s is back! And nothing says “love” like a hand-made pre-shrunk Valentine. Families are invited to create beautiful jewelry, key chains, and other Valentine’s Day gifts for their loved ones. Children will receive their first 2 sheets of blank Shrinky Dinks free, additional sheets will be available to purchase for 50 cents each.

StoryWalk: Mae Among the Stars
Where: Downtown Kensington, MD
When: Starting Saturday through March 13
Admission: Free
The Noyes Library for Young Children invites families to read the picture book Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmedon posted signs as they stroll through Warner Circle Park (adjacent to the library at 10237 Carroll Place) in Kensington. The story is about Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space, and the book was selected for its STEM focus and in recognition of Black History Month. Relatedcrafts can also be found on the Noyes Children’s Library Foundation website.

Wharf Winter Games
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
Missed your Olympic qualifier? Need a good laugh? Join the fun at the second annual Wharf Winter Games! Compete in multiple disciplines, from pin the tail on the Husky to ice corn hole and curling, and sign up for the one-of-a-kind Wharfarod sled races. (Don’t worry, no actual dogs take part in this event, just you and your friends racing to collect the most gold and trying to win great prizes from the restaurants at The Wharf.) If you’d rather cheer on the Wharfletes from the sidelines, enjoy s’mores at the fire pit with the kiddos. All ages are welcome.

Alif Ba & Thomas & Friends
Where: National Children’s Museum | Downtown DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15.95/age 1+
Enjoy the exhibits and a special activity at the National Children’s Museum this weekend. Get in the groove with an Arab music demonstration in the Alif Ba Exhibition, then hear a special Arabic story time in Little Dreamers. Check out the new Thomas & Friends exhibit, too. And, of course, explore all of the other STEAM inspired fun while you’re there!

Family Bike Ride
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
With at least one warmer weather day in the forecast, plan for a family two-wheel outing — you’ve got your pick of them around the area. Enjoy the scenery, get some exercise, and have fun cruising around the area. This post has a bunch of pedal-worthy recs, with something for riders of all levels, and this route is particularly ideal with kids.

Happy Trails
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Warmer temps also make it a perfect time to hit the trail with the fam! Savor the time in nature, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and enjoy a day of active fun. This post has a bunch of recommendations for great places to go with kids.  A few specific suggestions for this weekend: Riverbend to Great Falls is always a fave,  Patapsco Valley State Park has a lot of great hiking options, hit the trail right in the city at Rock Creek Park, or enjoy the glorious nature of Prince William Forest Park.

Balloonacy
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $12
Written by the same person who adapted Corduroy for the stage, Balloonacy returns to the Imagination Stage for a limited 3-weekend run and is filled with physical humor. The beautiful, movement-based show revisits the classic film The Red Balloon. Nothing can go right for the character of the old man, whose days are gray and dreary–until he is visited by a friendly red balloon. In the playful physical style of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, the old man–an adult version of the boy in the film–regains his youthful spirit, with the help of the red balloon! Best for ages 1-11

Rapunzel on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15
Rapunzel will be letting down her hair as a puppet version of the fairy tale classic opens takes The Puppet Co. stage. This charming retelling is performed by just one person! Princesses can be named after vegetables, witches can have good intentions, and sometimes you need a little song to help you get you through your day. Recommended for ages 4+. Run time is approximately 40 minutes.

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.  Play Work Build at the National Building Museum includes a display of the museums’s Architectural Toy Collection and a whole soft block play area. 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 — see links to them and loads of other museums and indoor places here.

Valentine Window Shops
Where: Storefronts around Adams Morgan, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Take a walk around Adams Morgan to see all storefront decorated especially for Valentine’s Day! The Adams Morgan Partnership BID is sponsoring a window decorating contest for all businesses facing the street. Enjoy a family outing to the neighborhood to walk around and see them all, then grab at bite at one of the many eateries there. You can also vote on your favorites through an online poll on our website from Friday, February 11, through Sunday, February 13!

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. Learn about winter flowers at Green Spring Gardens.  Sip (hot cocoa) & sketch animals at Huntley Meadows Park. Details and registration for these and many more nature activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Some of the best events of cherry blossom season are returning this year! The Blossom Kite Festival and Cherry Blossom Parade will be back for the first time since 2019.
* Another beloved spring event coming back: Eggstravaganza, the annual Easter tradition at Tudor House — and tickets always sell out quickly.
* A couple of cool sounding experiences will be in the DC area soon: The Friends Experience starts March 17, and The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience begins March 30.
* Eater has a round-up of places with Super Bowl specials.
* Or make your own game day food — lots of yummy ideas here.
* With Wordle all the rage right now, here are some related old school games to introduce to kids: Boggle, Scrabble, Mastermond. And a newer one to try.
* These candy hearts for teens would be perfect!
* Big Olympics moments — so far.

 

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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February 9, 2022 · 9:12 am

Five Things for Today: February 9, 2022

A bird’s eye view of DC from the National Gallery of Art rooftop

 

1. The National Gallery of Art East Building will shut down for renovations starting February 28 until June 2022, so make a plan to go in the next couple of weeks.  The wing housing the museum’s modern and contemporary collections is often most appealing to kids, with colorful paintings and works that are interesting, even whimsical and fun to view (think the giant blue cockerel on the roof and Calder’s mobiles).  Of course, the West Building is wonderful, too, and will remain open.  The National Gallery of Art is open daily 10am – 5pm.  Admission is free, and passes are not required.

 

2. While one museum is (partially) closing, another is opening!  The National Geographic Museum will once again welcome visitors starting February 16 for the first time since March 2020 when it closed for Covid.  Timed entry tickets are required, and while they have already sold out through February, there are plenty of dates and times available beyond that.  If you’re a longtime reader of KFDC, then you probably know I often touted Nat Geo as one of our favorite DC museums.  We’ve been to many exhibits there over the years that have been intriguing and engaging for visitors of all ages, full-on experiences that utilize multimedia and a variety of interactive installations to educate, enrich, amuse, and wow guests.  (Get a glimpse of some, from the fascinating Titanic exhibition to Real Pirates  to Spinosaurus to  Birds of Paradise and the Golden Age of Muslim Civilization to Monster Fish to Photo Arc and CROCS to Earth Explorers.)

Three exhibits will be on view when it reopens next week:  Exploration Starts Here, The Greatest Wildlife Photographs, and Once Upon a Climb: Stories from Mount Everest.  While photography will be the main highlights of the first two, the Mount Everest exhibit will also features objects, film footage, and immersive media to tell stories from the famous peak. Tickets are $15/adult, $10/ages 5-12, $12/student, military, & senior, free/under 5.  Museum hours are 10am – 5pm, Wednesday – Sunday.

 

3. Want to hike Old Rag, the popular Shenandoah mountain?  Starting March 1, you’ll need a ticket to do so, on top of a park entrance pass.  There are 800 tickets available per day, 400 released 30 days out, 400 released 5 days out.  Cost is $1/ticket — purchase here.

 

4. Just in time for Valentine’s Day…  a neighbor recently launched a floral business, and the designs are so beautiful.  (And speaking of the holiday, in case you missed it yesterday, there’s a new round-up of activities and events around DC to celebrate.)

 

5. Darcy’s monthly newsletter is a little different for February.  Instead of 10 happy things, she shares three moving stories about the passage of time in the context of her experience photographing families.

 

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