Tag Archives: Fun things to do in Baltimore

February 17, 2017 · 9:01 am

The Weekend Round-Up: February 17-20

A view of the Washington Monument from the African American Museum, a nod to President’s Day and Black History Month in one shot

It’s probably no surprise that there are scores of fun ways to celebrate President’s Day around DC. But there’s much more going on over the long weekend, too. Enjoy a Black History Month activity, go to the theatre, check out a new, cool exhibit, have a laugh at kids improv, savor the great weather with some outdoor recreation… Read on for details and even more ideas for making most of the extra time off. Happy Weekend!

Get Out
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
When it’s high 60’s and sunny in February, a recommendation to get out and seize the nice day is going to top the round-up. Stroll the gardens at Dumbarton Oaks, day trip and hike at Harpers Ferry, romp on the playground and visit the animals at Watkins Regional Park, take a walk in the woods, go fossil hunting. There are so many ways to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather — read about them all in this post about the best outdoor places around the area.

Party at George’s Place!
Where: Mount Vernon
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: $17/adult, $9/ages 6-11, free for 5 and under
Celebrate George Washington’s 285th birthday with special festivities at his former digs. Sample his favorite breakfast, mingle with costumed characters from the old days, and enjoy some dancing with the 18th-century. On Monday, there will be syrup-making and dance demos along with ceremonial wreathlayings to honor Washington. Bonus: Admission is free on Monday, but I can tell you from experience that a lot of folks show up to take advantage of the complimentary entry.

Stop by Abe’s, Too
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $6/ages 6-12, free for 5 and under
There’s no special event, but this seems like a good way to honor our 16th POTUS for President’s Day. Located on the Armed Forces Retirement Home campus in northwest DC, 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. It’s recommended for ages 6 and up.

Presidential Family Fun Day
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate America’s presidents with games, music, crafts, and a stovepipe-hat workshops led by staff from President Lincoln’s Cottage and a guided tour in the iconic “America’s Presidents” exhibition with Senior Historian David C. Ward. The Nationals’ Racing Presidents from MLB’s Washington Nationals will also attend from 11:30am – 12:30pm.

Discover Engineering Family Day
Where: National Building Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free ($5 suggested donation)
The Building Museum always hosts great family events, and this annual festival is no exception. Celebrate National Engineers Week as you discover how professional engineers turn ideas into reality and do some engineering and problem solving of your own. Hands-on activities allow kids to explore forces behind roller coasters, build a structure that withstands a tsunami, discover what makes popcorn pop, launch a rocket, and more! We’ve gone several years and have always had a great time. It gets crowded, but there are so many activities available, kids can always be involved in the fun. Recommended for children ages 4-12 with adult supervision.

Happy Birthday, Frederick Douglass!
Where: Frederick Douglass Historic Site
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free ($1.50/house tour)
George and Abe aren’t the only ones with birthdays; Freddy was born in February, too! Celebrate the 199th anniversary of Frederick Douglass’ birth with the National Park Service and its community partners as we hear about him more and more. The estate in Anacostia where Douglass lived for nearly the last 20 years of his life is now a historic site that welcomes the public to tour, and every year they host a birthday event in his honor. This year’s programs and activities explore the significance of the visual, performing, and culinary arts in Frederick Douglass’s life.

Black History Month Celebrations
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs (including an entire museum!), special tours and exhibits, story time sessions, and more will be enlightening and fun for all ages. See where they’re happening this weekend.

President’s Day Weekend Spectacular
Where: Port Discovery
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm/Sunday, 12-5pm/Monday, 9:30am – 5pm
Admission: $14.95/ages two and up
Enjoy President’s Day Weekend with fun, indoor family-friendly activities that will educate and entertain. On Saturday, there will be lots of train related fun, interactive engineering demos and experiments, and live music from roaming musician, Mr. Norman, and an interactive play of The Little Engine that Could. On Sunday, join in for art projects, Mother Goose on the Loose, Jingle Jangle Music Time, and programs like Kamishibai and The Adventure to the Imagination that will help your imagination go wild! On Monday, Celebrate President’s Day with tunes from DJ Holly, take part in an interactive story time featuring singing, dancing and finger plays, get musical during Jingle Jangle Music Time and in the hands-on Percussion Garden.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Ella Enchanted is on stage at Adventure Theatre
* Join a Saturday Family Jazz Session at Strathmore
* Follow that Fiddle with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center
* The Freshest Snow Whyte just opensed at Imagination Stage
* This weekend is your last chance to seeGoldilocks at The Puppet Co.
* And Snow Show is the featured Tiny Tots performance on Sunday
* Jason Didner & the Jungle Gym are playing the Saturday morning show at Jammin Java
* The Folger Theatre presents As You Like It
* See the American Boychoir perform in Bethesda

DREAM BIG IMAX3D
Where: Air & Space Museum & Udzar-Hazy Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $9/adult, $8/senior, $7.50/ages 2-12
The latest film to grace the giant screens at local museums promotes the E in STEM. From the world’s tallest buildings to underwater robots to footbridges in Haiti to a solar car race across Australia, DREAM BIG celebrates the human ingenuity behind engineering marvels big and small and highlights how engineers push the limits of innovation in unexpected and amazing ways. View the trailer here.

All Aboard for a Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Depot of the W&OD Railroad
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Chug on down to Vienna to watch model train and trolley activities that realistically depict an actual railroad that existed in North Carolina in the 1950′s, the Western North Carolina (WNC). As described in Model Railroader magazine, every hill, town, building, locomotive, rail car, and industry in this layout is modeled after those places and things as they looked in that era. Well, almost everything. To satisfy popular demand, expect an occasional sighting of Thomas the Tank Engine (and a few of his friends) chugging around among the bigger steam and diesel locomotives. The Vienna Depot is located at 231 Dominion Road NE in Vienna, VA.

ComedySportz for Kids
Where: DC Improv
When: Saturday, 2:30pm (doors open at 2pm)
Admission: $10
Kids as young as first grade can enjoy this afternoon improv show with ComedySportz, a comedy troupe that specializes in short-form improv games. This show features child-sized versions of those games, hosted by a Kids Coach. Guests will love being able to shout out during a show and some of the older kids will enjoy a chance to go crazy onstage.

Washington Dollar Days
Where: Tudor Place
When: Friday/Saturday/Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: $1
Don’t miss your chance to practice the frugality our founding father approved of: George Washington was born in February, and Tudor Place is celebrating him all month through artifacts, furnishings, and stories, all for just one “Washington dollar!” Tours begin hourly, and it’s recommended you book ahead.

KidFree: King Charles III
Where: Sidney Harman Hall
When: Through March 18
Admission: $64-123 (look for a discount)
Make it a date night at this play that imagines a not too far away future when the Queen is dead and Prince Charles prepares to take the throne. It’s an interesting drama that pits the monarchy against parliament, putting England in a national conflict that is, coincidentally, timely and familiar. For more about the show, Washington City Paper has a good review.

Frozen Day of Play
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
When: Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: $4, free for ages 4 and under
Families are invited to a day of play and creativity as we explore the wonders of winter and ice through a variety of art projects, pretend play, investigations, and more! From frosty face painting, to a frozen treasure hunt, to guided winter walks, kids of all ages will delight in this sensory seasonal experience. Drop in and escape the winter blues with lots of fun for all! Read a KFDC write-up about Annmarie.

Earth Explorers
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $12/adult, $10/ages 5-12, under 5 are free (look for a discount)
Witness animal migrations from a hot air balloon, submerse into the deep sea to study marine life, discover new species in the rain forest, gear up for a polar expedition. These are all adventures — simulated ones, anyway — to be experienced at the Nat Geo Museum’s newest exhibition that offers a glimpse into the work and passion of explorers in the field. Full of hands-on displays and interactive installations, it’s informative and inspiring. Best for elementary school ages and up, but younger children can enjoy it, too.

Mommy and Me
Where: Congress Heights Arts & Cultural Center
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission:
Join Buffy and Breezy of A. Lauren Design at their first ‘Mommy and Me’ event on Sunday. Enjoy brunch catered by Florida Avenue Grill, along with fun activities to do together — a DIY tulle skirt, face painting, pictures, and more! Contact alaurendesign@gmail.com with any questions and follow @alaurendesign. Tickets can be purchased through EventBrite.

A Local & National Treasure
Where: Library of Congress
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Explore the largest library in the world and one of DC’s most iconic attractions. Not only does the Library of Congress have a whole great space dedicated to kids, it’s is a trove of knowledge, art, history, and culture – and the public is welcome to enjoy it all. The Young Readers Center only has hours Monday through Saturday, but the rest is open daily. Read more in this very recent KFDC post.

Eco-Explorations
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
When: Monday, 10-11:00am
Admission: $5/adult, $4/military, $3/youth; free ages 5 & under
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, Solomons, Maryland, invites families to come along on an eco-exploration. Staff naturalist, Hester Burch, will lead youngsters and their caregivers on a hands-on exploration of the natural world of Annmarie Garden. This session is all about House cats vs Bobcats: What are the differences and similarities of domesticated and wild felines. As part of Eco-Explorations, kids will make a cat toy to take home. Families are also invited to bring in their own natural treasures to share for show & tell.

Family Fun Lego Day
Where: Bender JCC of Greater Washington
When: Monday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: $8/members,| $10/general public, parents free
Imagine what you’ll create at this fun-filled day with everyone’s favorite childhood building toys. Create and build with Legos and Duplos, play in the Family Gym, enjoy a screening of Trolls, and purchase a pizza lunch!

George Washington Birthday Parade
Where: Old Town Alexandria
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. Bundle up to watch the procession as it travels through Old Town. See the website for more info and route details.

Free Park-ing
Where: National Parks
When: Monday
Admission: Free!
It’s a fee free day at national parks, which means there’s no entrance price where they usually charge to get in. Take advantage of complimentary admission and the day off from school. Explore Prince William Forest Park, go to Fort McHenry, hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, or visit Harpers Ferry.

The Inside Scoop
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
If you’re looking for fun indoors, or just want more options for activities around town, this post lists more than 80 suggestions for things to do, just about all of them KFDC tried and tested.

***PLAN AHEAD***
Mock Trial for Kids!
Where: Trinity Washington University
When: March 18, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: $50/child
The Juris Prudence Academy is a one of a kind legal educational program for kids ages 8-12, which will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at Trinity University in Washington, DC. The 90-minute workshop will teach academy students basic legal principles in a collaborative setting. The academy will be guided by a lawyer, and students will participate in a mock trial, applying the principles they have learned in the workshop. Mock trial topics are ones that will be interesting to children, such as the following:
– Should Kids Have the Right to Vote?
– Should Kids be Allowed to Drive at a Younger Age?
– Should School Recess Be Longer?
– Should Kids Have School on Saturdays?
For more information about the Academy, review the FAQs on the event registration page. Scholarship tuition waiver nomination forms are available by emailing academy@jurispprudence.com.

The Weekend Round-Up: February 11-12

A close look at a Ganesha statue at the Sackler Gallery, where families can enjoy a special art workshop this weekend

So much to love about this weekend’s happenings! Opt for a Valentine’s Day-themed activity, celebrate Black History Month, immerse in adventure at a brand new exhibit, enjoy live entertainment, join a nature program… These are just some highlights among many options for fun with your kiddos. Happy Weekend!

DIY Valentines
Where: National Postal Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Love is in the details at the Postal Museum’s annual Valentine’s Day Card Workshop. We’ve attended this event several times, so I can tell you firsthand it’s love-ly. They’ll have pretty papers and neat valentine-themed stamps, all you need to bring is your creativity to decorate your card. Visit the museum’s stamp store and send the cards to your loved ones with a special Postal Museum postmark. And for more about the museum, see this KFDC post.

The Power of Chocolate
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10:30am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
The story of chocolate begins with a small tree that has its roots deep in the world of Mesoamerican culture. Join us for a celebration of one of the world’s most beloved foods. Explore the rich history and ongoing story of chocolate by grinding chocolate, creating a vase with Maya glyphs and learning more about the science, art and culture of chocolate.

More Activities to Love
Where: Around the 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 story time and crafts to skate dates to nature programs to tea time. And all of them are sure to be especially sweet. This post has the scoop on all of them.

Earth Explorers
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $12/adult, $10/ages 5-12, under 5 are free
Witness animal migrations from a hot air balloon, submerse into the deep sea to study marine life, discover new species in the rain forest, gear up for a polar expedition. These are all adventures — simulated ones, anyway — to be experienced at the Nat Geo Museum’s newest exhibition that offers a glimpse into the work and passion of explorers in the field. Full of hands-on displays and interactive installations, it’s informative and inspiring. Best for elementary school ages and up, but younger children can enjoy it, too.

NOAA Open House
Where: NOAA Silver Spring Campus
When: Saturday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Explore your world and learn how NOAA—the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—takes the pulse of the planet every day and protects and manages ocean and coastal resources. Join NOAA at the Silver Spring campus for a series of free activities, including engaging talks by NOAA experts, interactive exhibits, special tours, and hands-on activities for ages 5 and up. Meet and talk with scientists, weather forecasters, hurricane hunters, and others who work to understand our environment, protect life and property, and conserve and protect natural resources. Note: A government-issued photo ID is required for adults. Check the website for a list of acceptable forms of ID.

African American Pioneers in Aviation and Space
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Each February, the museum celebrates the significant contributions African Americans have made to flight and space exploration despite the overwhelming obstacles they had to overcome. Enjoy presentations, hands-on activities, and stories. Learn about African American astronauts, pilots, and scientists of the past and present and their accomplishments.

Carnival Family Day
Where: Anacostia Community Museum
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
In celebration of the exhibition Gateways, the public is invited to enjoy live entertainment, face painting, mask making, storytelling, and other activities for the kids at this popular annual museum event. See the schedule of the day’s events here.

African-Americans at Walney Walking Tour
Where: Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: $6
In this interactive walking tour, learn the names and stories of the many African-American families who lived here in slavery and in freedom. The one-hour program is recommended for ages 6 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

More Black History Month Celebrations
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs (including an entire museum!), special tours and exhibits, story time sessions, and are be enlightening and fun for all ages. See where they’re happening this weekend.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Ella Enchanted is on stage at Adventure Theatre
* Reserve free tickets to see Skher Brown and the Dancing Warriors Ensemble, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National performer
* Hamlette puts a twist on the Shakespearean classic at The Keegan Theatre
* The Freshest Snow Whyte just opensed at Imagination Stage
* Goldilocks is the latest Main Stage show at The Puppet Co.
* And Snow Show is the featured Tiny Tots performance on Sunday
* Steve Songs is playing two shows at Jammin Java on Saturday
* Watch The Great Zucchini with Barry the Magician perform at the Avalon Theatre in Alexandria
* Little ones will enjoy Kitchen Adventures with Encore Stage & Studio
* The Folger Theatre presents As You Like It
* Make it a KidFree night as Shakespeare Theatre Company presents King Charles III at Sidney Harman Hall

DC National Girls and Women in Sports Day Expo
Where:Deanwood Recreation and Aquatic Center
When: Saturday, 10:30am – 4pm
Admission: Free
“Expanding Opportunity” is the theme of this expo and will be one of more than 1,000 events taking place across the country for National Girls and Women in Sports Day. Decades of research show that girls who play sports have better health, higher self-esteem, greater academic achievement, stronger leadership skills, and greater economic opportunity. All District young women and their parents are invited to this event that will showcase up to 40 local vendors, organizations, and programs dedicated to sports and activity opportunities for girls and young women.

Baltimore, Hon!
Where: Baltimore attractions
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Zip up I-95 for some fun in our sister city, where there are several great places to spend a day off. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art around at the American Visionary Art Museum. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry.

Fables Rule!
Where: Silver Spring Library
When: Saturday, 2:30pm
Admission: Free
Diane Macklin returns to the library, presenting “Fables Rule,” with interactive storytelling and a new twist to classic tales that illustrate valuable lessons. This will take place on the third floor, and the Silver Spring Library is located at 900 Wayne Avenue in Silver Spring.

Books Alive!
Where: Wheaton Library Interim Branch
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Free, but tickets required
InterAct Story Theatre kicks off a monthly series of fun family safaris through books! Executive and Artistic Director Ali Oliver-Krueger will lead these interactive workshop for kids and parents, exploring a different age-appropriate children’s book through creative drama, then bringing them to life by acting them out in their own words. Stick around after the workshop to explore Wheaton Library’s children’s library and embark on a new reading adventure with your kids! The program is best for ages 4 and up. Tickets are limited, and you have to register through the Wheaton Library Interim Branch to get your them — visit in-person or by calling 240.777.0678 to sign up.

Light The Way At The Pearl
Where: The Pearl in Silver Spring
When: Saturday, 4:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
This event that celebrates the opening of The Pearl, luxury apartments in Silver Spring, also welcomes the public to check out some imaginative art! Light the Way is illuminating Silver Spring with a wholly original art installation. Designed by DC artist Kelly Towles, this inflatable light sculpture 45 feet in diameter playfully reinterprets the concept of a meditation labyrinth. Step inside, explore and contemplate, surrounded by trees and light, and then reemerge with a renewed sense of happiness, harmony and peace. There will also be music and cooking demos and food, and cocktails for purchase. The Pearl is located at 180 High Park Lane in Silver Spring.

4th Annual Waterfowl Festival
Where: Black Hill Visitors Center
When: Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Bring the whole family for a day filled with activities, demonstrations and exhibits to celebrate the wondrous water birds that call Little Seneca Lake home. Enjoy an original DUCKumentary, lectures on bird conservation, gorgeous carved wood decoys made right before your eyes and make-and-create opportunities for even the littlest birders. Join guided birding excursions to catch a glimpse of marine ducks, swans and maybe even the Black Hill bald eagles!

Mid-Winter Play Day
Where: Takoma Park Community Center
When: Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Put some play in your Sunday afternoon with Let’s Play Takoma and the Takoma Park Recreation Department. The variety of indoor entertainment will include Bach 2 Rock bands, local band Outer Body Llama, Zumbini, cookie decorating, board games and crafts, dress-up, puzzles, and more. All ages are welcome to enjoy it all.

Opt Outside
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
It looks like this weekend’s weather — temps in 60’s! — could lend itself to some activity outside. And you’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for outdoor adventures. Visit the Zoo, take a hike, explore a historic site, hit a playground, or see what else there is to do alfresco in this post with tons of ideas recreation in the fresh air. But if there’s rain or you prefer your fun under shelter, The Great Indoors list has you covered.

The Weekend Round-Up: February 7-8

Ready for a winter hike at Roosevelt Island

You’ve got some tough decisions here. With so many great events going on this weekend, it’ll be hard to choose which to do. Pick from museum programs that feature everything from black history to handmade Valentine to drones to local teen poets. LOL at a comedy show geared to kids. Celebrate something sweet at a chocolate festival or Crepe Day. See some live entertainment — a play, puppet show, or concert. And with warmer days in the forecast, get out for some fun al fresco — who knows how long it will last? Whatever you opt for, have a Happy Weekend!

DIY Valentines
Where: National Postal Museum
When: February 7, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Love is in the details at the Postal Museum’s annual Valentine’s Day Card Workshop. We’ve attended this event several times, so I can tell you firsthand it’s love-ly. They’ll have pretty papers and neat valentine-themed stamps, all you need to bring is your creativity to decorate your card. Visit the museum’s stamp store and send the cards to your loved ones with a special Postal Museum postmark. And for more about the museum, see this KFDC post.

Eye in the Sky: Game of Drones Family Day
Where National Building Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Drones have been in the news quite a bit lately, but few people really know how they are designed, built, and operated. You’ll be able to count yourself among that group after Saturday’s event. Join the National Building Museum and International Spy Museum and the DC Drone User Group to discover the secrets of drones. Local drone makers will demonstrate their wares and show families the inner workings of their drones as well as their special spy skills. A spy mission challenge will take place in which drone makers will guide their drones through a series of secret spy missions to see whose drone is the stealthiest.

Black History Month Family Day: Rising Up
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Bring the whole family to the Smithsonian’s kickoff celebration of Black History! The full day of activities is inspired by the exhibition Rising Up: Hale Woodruff’s Murals at Talladega College which features murals by prominent African American artist Hale Woodruff that portray significant events in the journey of African Americans from slavery to freedom. The festival includes hands-on activities, family gallery tours, musical performances and a genealogy workshop led by Karen Bennett Harmon, the artist’s grand-niece and a genealogist for the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The Land of Chocolate
Where: City of Fairfax
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Depends on activities
The City of Fairfax presents its annual festival centered around one of the most wonderful things in the world: Chocolate. There will be all kinds of activities for all ages throughout the weekend, both chocolate and non-chocolate themed — tastings, story time, puppet shows, face painting, chocolate challenges, a chocolate caper mock trial, and much more. The events list on the website has details.

Family Nature Walk
Where: Woodend Nature Sanctuary
When: Saturday, 9am
Admission: Free
Take a hike – and advantage of the Audubon Naturalist Society’s free monthly family program. On the first Saturday of each month from 9-10am, join Master Naturalists for a nature hike around Woodend Sanctuary. Each outing will have a unique and exciting natural history theme that’s appropriate for family members of all ages. Be prepared to hike in sneakers and don’t forget your water bottle. Meet at the amphitheater by the main house.

Celebrate La Chandeleur!
Where: Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $12/members, $18/non-members, $5/ages 2-18, free under 2
In France, La Chandeleur, also known as “Crêpe Day,” is celebrated with food and games. Alliance Francaise de Washington and Hillwood invite families to join in the tradition in festive French fashion by eating crêpes, listening to classic tales inspired by scenes from La Fontaine fables that are pictured on tapestries covering French chairs on display in the mansion, and experiencing the exciting culture of Brittany, where crêpes originated. Embark on a quest to discover French treasures in Hillwood’s mansion and decorate a plate in fanciful designs and flourishes inspired by the estate’s French Sèvres porcelain.

ComedySportz for Kids
Where: DC Improv
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: $10
Have a laugh with your kids as ComedySportz makes them the stars of the show! The comedy troupe specializes in short-form improv games, and this show features child-sized versions of them, hosted by a ComedySportz Kidz Coach. We caught one of these shows when it was hosted in Arlington a couple of years ago, and the kids couldn’t stop cackling at the off-the-cuff performance and loved the chance to be part of it, too (so much that Owen had one of his birthday parties there). Doors open at 1:30pm, the show starts at 2pm, and it lasts about an hour. DC Improv is located at 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Catch a performance of Petit Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood at Adventure Theatre
* Join the Circus! at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Park
* Mother Goose Caboose is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* Blue Sky Puppet Theatre is performing at Avalon Theatre Saturday morning
* Enjoy the NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Two Divas and a Bear! at the Kennedy Center
* Mockingbird is still running there, too
* Synetic Theatre’s Music Box is this week’s free Saturday Morning at the National performance
* Kindiemusicdc presents Junior Jams: Marsha Goodman-Wood at the Foundation Gallery and Liveroom in Kensington
* Black Violin will rock the house at BlackRock Center for the Arts on Sunday

Family Valentine Crafts
Where: Michael’s
When: February 7, 10am – 12pm & 1-4pm
Admission: $2/string art, $10/Valentine box
Head to a Michael’s location for some Valentine’s crafting. In the morning, drop in with little makers for string art valentines with yarn (for ages 3 and up). Later on, bring the whole family to create something special for next weekend’s holiday: Decorate a Valentine’s Day mailbox to hold cards from classmates, friends, and sweethearts. Cost for both activities includes supplies.

Hometown Hoops
Where: Area colleges
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Varies
With so many universities in the area, there’s always some college hoops action to enjoy on the weekends. Both the GWU men’s and women’s teams host Dayton this weekend, the men tonight (tickets here). The lady Terps host Nebraska on Sunday (tickets here) and the women on Sunday (tickets here). The Hoya women play Villanova on Sunday (tickets here). And the George Mason Patriots women are playing the Davidson Wildcats on Sunday (tickets here).

Winterfest Children’s Carnival
Where: Learning Center for Young Children
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Help support an area preschool and enjoy a fun day with the fam! Learning Center for Young Children, a non-profit cooperative preschool, is hosting a huge, fun, family-friendly event on Saturday. The Banjo Man Frank Cassel will provide live entertainment ($3 tickets for his three performances will be sold at the door). Festivities for kids include a moon bounce, face painting, crafts, and carnival games. A family photo booth will capture the memories and a silent auction will offer a chance to sample some of the area’s best restaurants, entertainment, and services. Lunch by Armand’s Pizza and gourmet desserts will be for sale. (Note: The snow date is February 21.) The Preschool is located inside the Warner Memorial Presbyterian Church at 10123 Connecticut Avenue in Kensington, MD.

Skate Under the Sky
Where: Local ice rinks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
With warmer temps in the forecast, it’ll be a great time to get gliding at local outdoor rinks. Skate amid art at the Sculpture Garden; join Canal Park’s Cartoon Skate on Saturday from 10am – 12pm; skate by the Potomac at Washington Harbour; or shop then skate at Pentagon Row, Veteran’s Plaza, Tyson’s Corner, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on both alfresco and indoor ice skating options in the area.

Portrait Story Days & Discoveries
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 1-4pm & Sunday, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
Drop in at the Portrait Gallery to listen to a story about poet, writer, and art collector George Washington Carver and complete a hands-on activity. The story will be read at 1, 2 and 3pm on Saturday and at 2, 3 and 4pm on Sunday. When you’re done there, pick up a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum. For more about the program, see this post about one of our experiences there.

DC Teen Poetry Slam
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 4-6pm
Admission: Free
Listen to twenty of the area’s most talented teenaged poets perform their original poetry in the Kogod Courtyard in this elimination-style performance poetry competition. The top scoring youth poets, as determined by judges from the audience, will earn a spot in the Grand Slam Finals and a chance to become members of the 2015 DC Youth Slam Team. All performing poets qualified earlier in the year; this is not an open mic event.

Takoma Mid-Winter Play Day
Where: Takoma Park Community Center
When: Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Put some play in your Sunday afternoon with Let’s Play Takoma and the Takoma Park Recreation Department. The variety of indoor entertainment will include a Bach to Rock band, a yoga “join in” demo, fun activities from the Girl Scouts, board games, dress-up, face painting, table tennis and pool, and much more. All ages are welcome to enjoy it all.

Magic Show
Where: Olive Branch Way at Oseh Shalom
When: Sunday, 2-3:30
Admission: $8
Derek Jasper, an accomplished magician and expert in deception that is perfect for any performance setting. Derek began studying magic at a young age and since then, he has spent well over a decade enchanting audiences of all sizes. His expertise lies in sleight of hand magic and Derek has been recognized by some of the top magicians and performers in the business. Derek’s repertoire is guaranteed to amaze the audience whether he is on stage, sitting at a table, or strolling through a crowd. Derek continues to travel and perform to bring magic to audiences across the United States. Olive Branch Way at Oseh Shalom is located at 7515 Olive Branch Way in Laurel, MD.

Go OUTSIDE & Play!
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
When the mercury “soars” into the 50’s after some of the biting, wind chilled days we’ve had lately, I’d be remiss not to encourage you to get out for some activity outside. Take a hike at Great Falls, Huntley Meadows, Rock Creek, Turkey Run, or Roosevelt Island. Get a winter perspective of the National Arboretum or Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Watch airplanes take off or land at Gravelly point. Visit the animals at the National Zoo or Oxon Hill Farm. See history on the Potomac at Fort Washington Park. Stroll the gardens at Dumbarton Oaks, Meadowlark, or Green Spring Gardens. Find details about all of these ideas in the post about The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids.

The Weekend Round-Up: January 30 – February 1

Take advantage of the season — go skiing!

Don’t let the cold deflate your enthusiasm for weekend fun! Kick off the good times with a special event at the Spy Museum, then run with it at one of many activity picks: ballet at the museum, a car or boat show, an ice carving fest, a day on the slopes, live entertainment, a nature center visit, indoor play, a Charm City jaunt, and more. Take a time out to browse the The Great Indoors post with over 70 ideas for outings inside. With the help of KFDC, you’re sure to score big with the kids. Happy Weekend!

Spy Fest
Where: International Spy Museum
When: Friday, 6-10pm
Admission: $14
Is your child the next 007? Find out at the Spy Museum’s annual event! Kids ages 5 and up can get an inside glimpse of the secret world of espionage at the Spy Museum’s annual event. Special spy-related activities, SPY snacks, a scavenger hunt, and prize competitions will make it an especially thrilling evening. (Note: One adult required for every five KidSpy agents.)

Washington Ballet & American Art
Where: Kogod Courtyard
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Bring your little ballerinas to the American Art Museum on Saturday for a special treat! That’s when the The Washington Ballet will be in the Kogod Courtyard to perform excerpts from the upcoming Sleepy Hollow. Septime Weber will also be there to discuss the production, plus there will be a scavenger hunt and a tour of the art that inspired the ballet.

Winter Ice Fest
Where: Village at Leesburg
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
The kids will think Elsa has left Frozen for Leesburg at this 2nd annual ice carving celebration. This action packed day of fun with the family will feature some of the best ice sculptors in the US competing for 1st place. Watch as they transform blocks of ice into lifelike sculptures. While you’re there,, enjoy s’mores from local scout troops, warm up with hot , pose for pics with Washington Capitals cheerleaders and mascot Slapshot, and shop and dine at more than 55 boutiques, stores, and restaurants. Sculptures will be illuminated at 5pm.

Washington Auto Show
Where: Washington Convention Center
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12/adults, $5/ages 6-12, free for 5 and under
The annual Washington Auto Show has zoomed back into town. And if there’s any “grown-up” event that is equally fun for all ages, this is it. The Auto Show is like a Truck Touch, but with automobiles — more than 700 of them! — on display for guests to check out. Other activities, like Ride ‘n Drives and celeb appearances, give guests even more to do and see. And especially for kids is a Family Activity Zone and pop-ins by some of their favorite characters along with the auto-fun. This post about one of our experiences at a past show has more about what to expect.

Hit the Slopes
Where: Liberty Mountain
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
Take advantage of winter and enjoy a quintessential seasonal activity — skiing! Liberty Mountain is one of the more convenient places to go with the kids, especially if they are newbies. Just over an hour from DC in PA, it’s easy to get to for a one-day venture on the slopes, the runs aren’t too difficult, and kids can do a couple of hours of ski school (be sure to sign up in advance). Get the scoop on their children’s programs here.

Baltimore, Hon!
Where: Charm City attractions
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Zip up I-95 for some fun in our sister city, where there are several great places for kids to play and discover — all indoors. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the 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. Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Be among the first audiences to see Petit Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood at Adventure Theatre
* It’s the last chance for little ones to enjoy interactive theatre with Inside Out at Imagination Stage
* Join the Circus! at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Park
* Mother Goose Caboose is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* See Mockingbird at the Kennedy Center
* Marsha Goodman-Wood will be entertaining kiddos with her originial tunes at Avalon Theatre on Saturday morning

A Boatload of Fun
Where: Baltimore Convention Center
When: Friday Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12/adults, free for kids 15 and under
The annual Baltimore Boat Show drops anchor at the Baltimore Convention Center his weekend, featuring more boats than ever to check out, plus fun for all ages. There will be hundreds of new boats, from luxury cruisers and fishing boats to family runabouts and pontoons along with dozens of booths boasting the latest in marine accessories and electronics. For some activity, the Progressive Boat School led by the Annapolis School of Seamanship will offer free interactive boating education, and in another area visitors can try Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). And the smallest of sailors and boaters will enjoy activities in the Kids’ Zone.

Back to Nature
Where: Local nature centers
When: Through out the weekend:
Admission: Free
If you’re jones-ing for a nature fix, but aren’t keen on tolerating the weather to get it, head to a nature center. Rock Creek Nature Center, Watkins Nature Center, and Potomac Overlook Nature Center are a few of our faves. Or find one near you with the help of The Natural Capital blog.

Indoor Play
Where: Local indoor play areas
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Various by venue
Go out — or make that in — and play! Even on the most dreary days there are places to go and run, bounce, climb, swing, flip, and slide — all in the warmth and comfort of the indoors. This post has a bunch of recommendations for playground-style fun out of the cold.