Tag Archives: Indoor Playgrounds

April 13, 2017 · 10:05 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: April 14-16

Tulips a bloomin’ at Burnside Farm

It may be Easter weekend, but there’s way more going on than egg hunts and bunnies (though there are plenty of them, too). Have fun at Nationals Park — and in national parks. Go to a flower filled festival. Join a bird walk or bike ride. See a show. Enjoy some recreation on the water. Fling some discs on a course…. These are just some of many ways to enjoy the next few days — and some QT with the kids. Happy Weekend!

Tiptoe Through the Tulips
Where: Burnside Farm
When: Friday 10am – 6pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am – 6pm
Admission: $6/Friday $8/Weekend
Experience Holland in Haymarket, VA! The bloom has begun at Burnside Farm, where their annual Festival of Spring showcases the season’s flowers. Stroll through the giant fields that contain over 50 different varieties of flowers in a rainbow of colors and pick your own to enjoy at home: $1 for 2 daffodils, $1 per tulip.) Be sure to have your camera handy. Along with the flowers, there are bouncy features, a playhouse area, cornhole games, and authentic Dutch wooden shoes to try on, concessions for sale, and a picnic area.

Egg-cellent Celebrations
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by event
Egg hunts, bunny visits, and more spring fun to celebrate Easter and the season are happening all around the area. Even if you’re not big on the holiday, there are attractions beyond bunnies and candy-filled eggs for the whole fam. Join a Bird Egg-stravaganza at Woodend, hunt amid storybook installations at Clark’s Elioak, enjoy loads of spring fun at Ticonderoga Farm, hop on a Bunny Train, fill a basket at an Eggstravagnza, feast at Pinstripes, or find another event where you can celebrate here.

Nats vs. Phillies
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats host the Phillies all weekend with games Friday evening and Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Sunday’s game is going to be extra egg-citing. Not only is it Kids Day, Screech’s Birthday, and Kids Run the Bases, after the game young fans can join the first-ever egg hunt in the outfield at Nationals Park! This requires purchase of a special ticket, and adults must buy it, too (though the hunt is just for kids). Be sure to check out these KFDC tips for doing a Nats game without breaking the bank. And consider signing up for the Jr. Nationals Kids Club, too.

Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival
Where: Southwest Waterfront
When: April 15, 2-9:30pm
Admission: Free
The final event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place on the Southwest Waterfront at the District Wharf and the Titanic Memorial. It’s an afternoon and part-evening affair with free live music and family-friendly festivities, including water-related activities, cultural experiences, and delicious foods. The grand finale will begin at 8:30pm when the National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show lights up the night sky.

Bluebells at the Bend
Where: Riverbend Park
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: $7
Celebrate the Virginia Bluebells as they blanket the banks of the Potomac River at Riverbend Park. Bring the whole family for fun including games, music, wildflower walks, wagon rides, live animals, and more. Read more about Riverbend in this KFDC post. And to see what else is going on at other Fairfax County Parks, go here.

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: FREE!
It’s National Parks Week through April 23, so there will be no entrance fee at national parks where they usually charge to get in this weekend and next. Take advantage of complimentary admission and celebrate our parks by visiting a local natural treasure. Hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, take a ride on Skyline Drive, explore Fort McHenry, or visit Harpers Ferry. For more ideas of places to visit, see the National Park Service website.

Breakin’
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Spring Break is winding down for some kids, but just kicking off for others (incuding mine!), and there are a bunch of great ways to take advantage of the time off from school. See a special exhibit, hit the beach, take a cool day trip or overnight, and more. Check out the guide with ideas for where to go and what to do around DC during Spring Break 2017.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Your wish for all-ages entertainment has been granted: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp is at Adventure Theatre
* The Three Billy Goats Gruff is on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Bunny Business is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* Ragtime is running at Ford’s Theatre, a historic DC etertainment venue
* The Broadway hit Chicago is at the Kennedy Center for one more weekend
* A Raisin in the Sun at Arena Stage is a great option with older kids or for a date night

Spring Bird Walk
Where: Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
When: Sunday, 8-10am
Admission: Free
Bird nerds and those who enjoy a nature walk in a lovely place can join the National Park Service every Sunday in April and May from 8-10am to explore Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and Marsh to find resident birds and arriving spring migrants from the tropics. Binoculars and gird guides provided. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Ride with Recess Outings
Where: Capitol Hill
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10-11:30am
Admission: $30-40
Join Recess Outings on a bike ride! If you’ve just starting to cycle with little ones in tow, the Precious Cargo ride on Saturday is an introduction to biking with toddlers. On Sunday, To Market, To Market is designed for anyone up for a leisurely exploration of DC, with world-class markets serving as the bookends along the route as you meander from Eastern Market to Union Market and back again. Get more details about both rides here.

Furnished with a Firelock
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: $5/adult, $3/child, free for 2 and under
Learn about the militia in Colonial Virginia right before the American Revolution at this new educational and fun event. Witness the sights and sounds of an 18th century militia encampment and help the soldiers with their camp duties – then fall in to learn the manual of arms.

Go with the Flow
Where: Potomac, Anacostia, South, & Patuxent Rivers
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by boathouse
Enjoy the weekend on the water, where you can paddle and explore! A bunch of places around the area that rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pontoons have opened for the season! Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go, and you can also row from Key Bridge Boathouse, which just opened for the season. Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis has paddling options. And if you’re up for a bigger excursion, you can rent your own pontoon at Solomons Island.

Disc Golf
Where: Local parks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Hit the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors with the family. Read about one of our outings playing the Frisbee-Golf combo. We’ve also enjoyed it at Seneca Creek State Park and Burke Lake Park. Not only is disc golf fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty places with lots of opportunities for more active recreation.

Out and About
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Between the glorious weather and the blooming everything (it seems, right?), it’s a great time to be outdoors. Plan for some al fresco adventures — the round-up of The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids has ideas galore!

***Good Stuff to Know***
* There’s an awesome giveaway going on right now to celebrate Mother’s Day coming up. Enter here for a chance to win a $200 gift card to Bliss Spa and $100 in babysitting credit from Chime by Sittercity (note: it doesn’t have to be used on Mother’s Day)!
* Thomas the Tank Engine & friends are rolling into Baltimore for Day Out With Thomas at the B&O Railroad Museum April 28-30 and May 5-7. (Note: The giveaway has ended, but find ticket links in the post).
* There are lots of great shows coming to local stages this season — save your seats in advance!
* We dig the The Brig! The family-friendly beer garden near Barracks Row has a nice selection of brews, good food, live music on Saturdays, and a 25-foot screen for viewing sports games. Yay.

The Weekend Round-Up: March 31 – April 2

Go fly your kite at the Washington Monument this weekend

This round-up is coming to you a little earlier than usual, and you’re going to need that extra time to figure out your plans because there are so many cool things going on this weekend. Watch the sky fill with kites around the Washington Monument. See Baltimore in a whole new light — literally. Get your Easter fun started. Cheer on local sports teams. Catch live entertainment on local stages. Take a time trip to the 18th century at a colonial farm. And there’s way more…read on for details on all of it. Happy Weekend!

Go Fly a Kite!
Where: Washington Monument Grounds
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
The annual Blossom Kite Festival is probably my favorite event of the cherry blossom season. The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument is truly one to behold. It’s magical for kids (and even for me as a jaded adult)! The sails you see flying there each spring range from simple to pretty darn creative. Dragons, sharks, butterflies, giant soccer balls, even some that look like big, beautiful origami works way outnumber your basic diamond. And anyone can go fly their kites, so BYO or make one there at an activity station (available while supplies last). There’s a competition aspect to the event, too; expert kite enthusiasts will wow crowds with cool stunts, and prizes will be awarded to winners of various categories such as most beautiful, funniest, and aerodynamics.

Light City
Where: Baltimore’s Waterfront
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free
Head up to Baltimore for what sounds like a uniqu e, amazing experience! See the waterfront transformed with large-scale light installations, performances, music, and innovation. Central to Light City is the BGE Light Art Walk along Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, featuring more than 50 attractions including illuminated sculptures, projections, interactive technologies, performances, concerts, food vendors and a children’s area. Light City’s innovation programming generates an ecosystem of ideas and learning during the day – while lights, performances, and live music re-imagine Baltimore at night. Be sure to check out the family-friendly features of the festival.

Nats Are Back!
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, 4:05pm & Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The official baseball season hasn’t begun, but you can start getting into the swing of it at exhibition games this weekend as the Nats host the Red Sox. Tickets are still available for the Friday match, though sold out on Saturday, but you can try scoring seats through a secondary ticket outlet. And before you go, be sure to check out these KFDC tips for doing a Nats game without breaking the bank.

Cherokee Days
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the fourth annual Cherokee Days Festival with the NMAI Representatives from all three federally recognized Cherokee tribes — the Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are taking part. The event showcases the shared history and cultural lifeways of the Cherokee through interactive exhibits, storytelling, traditional flute playing, weaponry, woodcarving, beadwork, traditional games, basket weaving, and pottery demonstrations, along with music and dance performances. FYI: The NMAI always throws a good festival — the dance performances in the atrium are particularly great!

Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult at the gate
Head to Great Country for the first “crop” of the spring: Marshmallow Picking! Do marshmallow peeps grow on trees? Be sure to check it out and harvest a few to roast on the bonfire with Farmer Bob. You can even purchase a s’mores kit to melt away that chocolate craving. Kids can also help find Easter Bunny eggs during egg hunts (by age – see schedule on website) with over 18,000 treat-filled eggs. Plan to visit spring chicks and baby animals, check out the spring plantings in the greenhouse, take a hayride and rejoice in the new season. Don’t forget to bring your camera for photo ops with the Easter Bunny. Buy advance tickets online for only $10/adult — visit the website to purchase, and look for the schedule of events there, too.

Artomatic Children’s Day
Where: Vornado/Charles E. Smith in Crystal City
When: Sunday
Admission: Free
This six-week art event featuring work by more than 600 artists, performers, musicians, and creatives of all kinds is hosting special activities and workshops especially for kids this Sunday. Young art-goers can help create a mural, catch a roaming magician performing tricks, join a community weaving project, work on an origami installation, and more! Visit the website for details and the schedule of activities.

Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
Where: Bethesda Row
When: Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Admission: Free, but treats range in price
Take the kiddies to a mobile vehicle of cuteness that offers a delicious array of Hello Kitty sweets and special goodies to fans of all ages. The yummy treats on board the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck will include a 3-piece Hello Kitty cookie set, a rainbow macaron box set that includes a surprise Sanrio character design, a 4-pack of mini cakes, and bow-shaped bottles of water. In addition to the goodies, a Hello Kitty Cafe mug, a supercute pink Hello Kitty Cafe t-shirt and the pop icon’s signature bow headband will also be available to purchase.

Kids Capitol Hill Walking Tour
Where: Start & end at Southeast Library
When: Saturday, 1-3:30pm
Admission: $15/members, $20/non-members
Kids ages 8-12 can join this District Architect Center DACkids program! Whether your family lives on Capitol Hill, or you’ve visited the US Capitol and Supreme Court buildings, there’s plenty to discover about the history and architecture of this neighborhood where people have lived, worked, and shopped for many years. This kids’ tour will explore why buildings look the way they do and the stories of the people who shaped the neighborhood. Learn new terms and identify the architectural features of libraries, churches, the Marine Barracks, as well as row houses and buildings that have been adapted to new uses. Parents are welcome to join the tour and be part of the learning experience.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Reserve free tickets to see Peabody Opera’s Papageno!, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National show
* The Three Billy Goats Gruff just opened on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Mother Goose Caboose is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* Watch virtuoso juggling gone wild with Water on Mars at Black Rock Performing Arts Center
* Paper Dreams at Imagination Stage will delight young audiences
* Ragtime is running at Ford’s Theatre, a historic DC etertainment venue
* Laura Doherty & The Heartbeats is playing the Saturday morning show at Jammin Java
* A Raisin in the Sun opening at Arena Stage is a good option with older kids or for a date night
* Go KidFree at a performance of The Select (The Sun Also Rises) at the Lansburgh Theatre — this weekend is your last chance to see it!

Saturday Family Jazz Session
Where: Strathmore
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: $10
Jumpstart a love for jazz with classes that nurture talent and spark musicality! Music, history, and fun come together this weekend when kids learn about blues superstar Gertrude “Ma” Pridgett Rainey, plus the foundations of singing, vocabulary, and form essential to the blues. Recommended for ages 3-8. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. All attendees, regardless of age, must have a ticket.

Kite Day
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $10-12
Children ages 3-10 are invited to make and decorate a kite, then watch it soar during kite flying activities. Pre-reservations required! Plan to hang out and enjoy the many other attractions at the park after (or before) your session. Animal visits, wagon rides, and playgrounds are just a few of them!

More Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Several Fairfax parks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Fairfax County Park Authority hosts all kinds of events on weekends for guests of all ages to enjoy. Enjoy a nature session for tiny tots at Huntley Meadows Park, join an April Fool’s campfire at Hidden Oaks Nature Center, let kids be animal scientists at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, celebrate National Poetry Month at Green Spring Gardens. Go here to see all of your options and register for activities.

Nat Geo Kids Club
Where: Bloomingdale’s Court, Tysons Corner Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Explore with National Geographic at their monthly Kids Club! Enjoy free fun, educational games and activities — it’s a great opportunity for children to learn with activities and games that focus on discovery through play. It’s all complimentary and also includes snacks provided by California Pizza Kitchen, music, balloon animals, and face painting.

DC United vs. Philadelphia Union
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets start at $20
Kick it at a soccer game on Saturday. The DC United are hosting the Philadelphia Union for an evening match. Be sure to stop by the Fan Zone in section 222 for extra activities that kids and adults can enjoy.

Annual Garden Party
Where: Community Forklift
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Throughout the winter, Community Forklift collects gently-used and surplus lawn & garden supplies as well as outdoor décor and furniture. Come spring, they put it all out for your shopping pleasure at their Annual Garden Party. Even more, along with the sale, the event will feature gardening demonstrations, experts, and vendors; activities for kids; and local bands and food. It’s become so popular, they extended it to two day this year!

Spring Egg Hunt & Farm Fun
Where: Ticonderoga Farm
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $14.95 ages 2 and up
With giant slides, awesome jumping pillows, playgrounds, animals, mazes, and more, the farm in Chantilly is a blast everyday (it’s open daily), but they take the fun up a notch on weekends in early spring. Along with the permanent amusement, there are egg hunts ( and visits from the Easter Bunny. Be sure to check the website for timing of specific activities. For an idea of what’s there, see this post about their Winter Festival, which is much of the same, but with Easter instead of Christmas festivities. And this post about a class field trip has info and pics, too.

Go Colonial
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: $3/adults, $2/ages 3 and up, free for 2 and under
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm opens for the first weekend of its 2017 season, welcoming visitors to explore family life on a pre-Revolutionary War working farm! There is a tobacco barn, farm house, garden, orchard, and animals. Guests can also interact with a family portraying life as it was back then. Read more about it in this post (ignore the “autumn” part; it’s a great outing in the spring, too) and this one.

Everyday Play
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Want even more options for local activities with the kids? The Everyday Play page is loaded with ideas for ongoing fun — every single one of them tried and tested by yours truly and crew. And if you’re looking specifically for things to do outside, check out The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids. And for inside pursuits, The Great Indoors post has you covered.

***PLAN AHEAD!***
* Secure parking before you come into the city with Parking Panda, a free, handy app that lets you reserve a space in a garage, so you don’t have to waste time searching for a spot.
* Plan for more Cherry Blossom Festival events with this round-up of the best ones for families
* There are egg hunts, Bunny visits, and spring fun galore over the next few weeks that will have your whole fam hopping with joy. This annual round-up of ’em has details.
* If you haven’t seen Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors at the Hirshorn, there is still a chance to score tickets (Mondays at noon!). This post lets you know what to expect and has tips on going with kids.
* Thomas the Tank Engine & friends are rolling into Baltimore for Day Out with Thomas at the B&O Railroad Museum. There’s a KFDC giveaway to win a family 4-Pack of tickets!

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Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Kids Activities, DC Kids Museums, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Family Activities DC, Family Friendly DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Indoor Activities, Indoor Playgrounds, Kid Friendly Activities, Kids Activities in Maryland, Kids Activities in Northern Virginia, Kids Entertainment in DC, National Cherry Blossom Festival, Spring 2017, Things to do with Kids in DC, Washington DC Events, Weekend April 1-2

March 24, 2017 · 7:24 am

The Weekend Round-Up: March 24-26

The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is open for the season!

This first weekend of spring is full of seasonal fun and then some! Enjoy a cherry blossom-inspired event, celebrate Maryland’s birthday, zip through the treetops, catch a live show, have fun on the farm, learn to make slime….plus, the blossoms should be in full bloom anytime now, so plan get out and see the DC in peak mode. Happy Weekend!

Cherry Blossom Celebration
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join SAAM and the National Cherry Blossom Festival for a celebration of Japanese culture! A taiko drumming performance kicks off the day, followed by Japanese music and dance performances, face painting, and cherry blossom themed crafts. Make your own tatebanko (a Japanese paper diorama) with our friends from the Smithsonian’s Freer Sackler Asian art museums. Go on a scavenger hunt to find spring-themed artworks and more!

Maryland Day
Where: Annapolis and Southern Anne Arundel County
When: Friday – Sunday, times vary by activity
Admission: Activities are free or just $1
Celebrate Maryland’s birthday and rediscover the state’s history during fun-filled annual festival highlighting the uniqueness of the Four Rivers Heritage Area, as local cultural and heritage sites offer special activities and tours. Stroll through downtown Annapolis or visit Historic London Town and the Annapolis countryside to enjoy educational tours, costumed re-enactors, art exhibits, kids’ activities, and more. Visit the website for more details ad schedule of events.

Kites of Asia Family Day
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: March 25, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Get ready for the Blossom Kite Festival and celebrate spring and Asian heritage! At the Air & Space Museum’s annual event, you can talk to kite experts, see pan-Asian kite displays, marvel at indoor kite flying, make your own kite, and maybe even take a dance lesson!

Japanese Culture Day
Where: Library of Congress Young Readers Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Learn about Japanese culture as you create origami artwork creation, try on kimonos, and enjoy more other activities. Cherry Blossom princesses from the last few years will instruct children in the art of tiara-making. At 11am and 1:30pm, the Japan-America Society of Washington, DC, will present “Japan-In-A-Suitcase,” a program about Japanese life and culture. Following each of these presentations, there will be a karate demonstration along with other attractions. Children can also explore the Library’s Young Readers Center, which is full of current and classic children’s literature – read more about it here.

Friendship Between Nations Family Day
Where: National Archives
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Join the National Archives for a fun, activity filled day exploring the many ways countries show their friendship. Investigate treaties, learn about some of the crazy gifts countries have given, and participate in interactive activities designed for the entire family to enjoy.

Blossom Viewing
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The kick of warmth starting today should give the cherry blossoms the final nudge needed to get to full bloom, so get out and view the splendor of it all. The Tidal Basin is the most iconic spot to see them, but other places in the area also showcase the famous flowers. This post suggests some spots and offers tips on making the most of your viewing experience.

Adventure in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by age
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring recently opened for the season! Kids as young as 5-years-old can experience thrills on the ropes courses and ziplines in the park’s aerial adventure forest, the largest in North America. Children ages 5-6 and an accompanying adult have access to two of the easier courses. Older kids can do much more. It may seem like a pricey venture, but it’s so worth it. Trust me. Read more about the park in this KFDC post.

Composting Workshop
Where: National Arboretum
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $10
Join Washington Youth Garden for a family-friendly Urban Composting workshop lead by Compost Cab. Join them at the demonstration garden to learn about indoor and outdoor home composting and leave with the knowledge to make your own soil for your garden. Wear clothing that can get dirty — compost can get messy!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Reserve free tickets to see Bilbo’s Journey presented by Traveling Lantern Theatre Company, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National show
* Jack and the Beanstalk in on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Magic Toyshop is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* Paper Dreams at Imagination Stage will delight young audiences
* Older youth audiences will enjoy The Manhattan Project’s production of Alice in Wonderland at the Bethesda theatre
* From the Mouths of Monsters is a Frankenstein-inspired show at the Kennedy Center
* Justin Roberts is playing the Saturday morning show at Jammin Java
* See To Sail Around the Sun at the Kennedy Center
* Go KidFree at a performance of The Select (The Sun Also Rises) at the Lansburgh Theatre

Spring Farm Fun
Where: Ticonderoga Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $14.95 ages 2 and up
Start celebrating Easter as soon as this weekend at Ticonderoga’s annual spring festival! With giant slides, awesome jumping pillows, playgrounds, animals, mazes, and more, the farm in Chantilly is a blast everyday (it’s open daily), but they take the fun up a notch on weekends in early spring. Along with the permanent amusement, there are egg hunts and visits from the Easter Bunny. Be sure to check the website for timing of specific activities. For an idea of what’s there, see this post about their Winter Festival, which is much of the same, but with Easter instead of Christmas festivities.

Going Wild Weekend
Where: Port Discovery
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $$14.95/ages 2 and up
Spring is finally here – and it’s time to “Go Wild” at Port Discovery! Join Wildlife Adventures and programs all about wildlife: Interact with live animals, learn about wildlife with fun programs like Living WILD, Wild Tales, and UnWrap, UnRoll and UnWind, and enjoy animal-themed art projects where you can create Fire Breathing Dragons and Going Wild Masks. Plus, take part in interactive plays and theater performances, yoga for kids, and enjoy roaming music throughout the day!

Environmental Film Fest
Where: Several locations around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by film
Films from across the globe are being screened around the DC-Metro area for the the 25th annual Environmental Film Festival. And there are a few family-oriented flicks among them. This weekend, Naledi: A Baby Elephant’s Tale is the one family-friendly film showing on Sunday. There are even more films that older kids will likely enjoy and learn from and others to consider for a grown-up outing. View the website to watch trailers and get showtimes and details.

Cántale a Tu Bebé (Sing To Your Baby)
Where: The Mansion at Strathmore
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: $10
Join a bilingual music party celebrating the release of Cántale a Tu Bebé, the Spanish-language version of the award-winning book/CD Sing To Your Baby by Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer. Sonia De Los Santos (solo musician and Dan Zanes Band) and Jorge Anaya (Dc-area Latino vocalist) join Cathy & Marcy for this intimate event. Learn how to use music for fun, skill development and as an ongoing expression of love in both Spanish and English. It’s never too early (or too late!) to sing with family!

DC Youth Orchestra SpringFest
Where: Easter High School
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
The DC Youth orchestra Program is celebrating Spring with the community! It’ll begin with a prelude concert featuring DCYOP chamber groups and faculty. The Orchestra Idol competition concert will follow — think Battle of the Bands meets DC youth! Over 200 students from 80 different schools will be assigned to one of three hybrid orchestras. Each orchestra will have one hour to prepare a piece which will then be performed in front of a panel of celebrity judges and community audience. The winner will be determined by the combined votes of the celebrity panel and audience texts score. Join to enjoy the music and chip in with your vote!

Museum Movie: The Eagle Huntress
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Sunday, 11:30am
Admission: Free
Among the isolated Kazakh tribe in the mountains of northwest Mongolia, the long tradition of eagle hunting has only been practiced by men. This documentary follows Aisholpan, a 13-year-old girl, as she trains to become the first female in 12 generations of her family to become an eagle hunter. Her decision causes controversy amongst older members of the community, but Aisholpan boldly embarks on a strict program of training. This inspiring film captures her courage. English narration, and Kazakh with English subtitles. Recommended for ages 11 and up.

Make Slime to Fight Cancer
Where: Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax
When: Sunday, 2-3pm
Admission: $20
Local 9-year-old, Hannah, has been making slime since last summer, and with the recent with slime craze many kids have asked to buy it as well as how to make their own. So, her mom thought it would be fun have her teach a class for kids in the area — and this Sunday Hannah will be doing just that. (How cool is that?!) Even better, part of the proceeds will go to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, which helps fight childhood cancer. All supplies are included in the fee, and you can use the code HANNAH to get a $5 discount.

Make Room for Matzah
Where: Edlavitch DCJCC
When: Sunday, 10:30am -12pm
Admission: $10/family by 3/24, $15/family after
Join for hands-on Passover workshop to get ready for Passover and learn more about this tradition for your interfaith or Jewish family. Your child will make a beautiful Miriam’s Cup to enhance your seder and do a mitzvah for seniors celebrating Passover. Then we will have a Seder Plate Taste Test, as you delve into why we have the things on the Seder plate that we do. Best for ages 3 and up.

Walks in the Woods
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Enjoy the season and some active fun. See flowers that are popping up with warmer temps, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and savor the time outdoors. This post has a a bunch of recommendations for places to walk in the woods with the kids.

The Ins and Outs of DC
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
If you’re looking for things to do outdoors or inside, depending on the weather or simply your preference, these posts are chock full of evergreen pursuits:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors

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Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Events, DC Kids Activities, DC Kids Museums, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Family Activities DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Indoor Activities, Indoor Playgrounds, Kids Activities in Maryland, Kids Activities in Northern Virginia, Kids Entertainment in DC, Spring 2017, Things to do with Kids in DC, Washington DC Events, Weekend March 25-26

March 17, 2017 · 8:58 am

The Weekend Round-Up: March 17-19

All eyes on the Tidal Basin… come on, cherry blossoms!

There might be some questions about the fate of the cherry blossoms — will they or won’t they bloom? — but when it comes to cool pursuits around DC, there’s never any doubt, and this weekend is no exception. See basketball action that brings more laughs than madness, go green at an environmental film fest, celebrate Women’s History Month at a special museum program, let older kids have their day in “court,” shop a wacky and wonderful museum sale, take in some live entertainment, enjoy activities at local parks, have some KidFree fun, and wind it all down Sunday evening at an anniversary bash for a DC institution. Details on these and many more area happenings are all right here. Happy Weekend!

Cherry Blossom Festivities
Where: Tidal Basin
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
How our famous flowers fare after the recent blast of winter remains to be seen, but the National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off this weekend regardless. Tickets are long gone for the Opening Ceremony event, but there will be a variety of performances at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area. Hopefully, there will be pretty blooms to enjoy along with them. And for tips on viewing the cherry blossoms, be sure to check out this KFDC post.

Harlem Globetrotters
Where: Verizon Center & Eagle Bank Arena
When: Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $25 and up
The Ambassadors of Goodwill are bringing their A-game — an exciting combo of basketball, entertainment, and comedy — to the DC area with three shows, at the Patriot Center Friday evening, then two at the Verizon Center on Saturday, and back at the Patriot Center on Sunday. Tickets are still available for all of them.

Women’s History Month Family Day
Where: National Postal Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Explore the various roles women had at the Post Office throughout its long history. Watch a historic printing press demonstrations, play the “Dead Letter Office” game and learn about the first female Post Master, Mary Katherine Goddard. Meet a female Postal Inspector and learn about her exciting job “Behind the Badge.” Enjoy story time and scavenger hunt and take home an NPM airplane as a souvenir! “Amelia Earhart” will make several appearances and engage visitors by speaking about her love of stamps and her airborne adventures.

Refuge System Birthday Bash
Where: National Wildlife Visitors Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the work of 566 wildlife refuges across the US and its territories at the annual Refuge System Birthday Bash. This year’s theme is Awareness & Action, and the Refuge will be sharing ways to help wildlife through crafts, games, educational activities, and Environmental Film Festival. The National Wildlife Visitor Center is located at 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop in Laurel, MD.

White Elephant Barn Sale
Where: American Visionary Art Museum
When: Saturday, 7am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Help AVAM clear out their hoard! And if you’re familiar with the museum, then you know you this is an opportunity to score something great. Get your hands on amazing artwork, books, cards & publications, electronics, office supplies & furniture, vintage Macs, retro AVAM & Kinetic memorabilia, plenty of art fixins, and loads more… it’s a picker’s paradise! All proceeds benefit AVAM. And while you’re there, take a tour of the museum, too (admission $15.95/adult, $9.95/child). Read more about AVAM here.

Room for Children
Where: House of Sweden
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
It’s opening weekend in the space for family fun at the Swedish Embassy on Georgetown’s waterfront. This library and arts studio for the young is designed to stimulate children’s interest in books, music, storytelling, and self-expression — Room for Children pushes the boundaries of what a library can be. Parents are encouraged to engage in it all with kids and share the experience! This will be open on weekends through December, and every Saturday, there is a storytime session at 2pm.

Mock Trial for Kids
Where: Trinity Washington University
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: $50/child
Kids ages 8-12 can have their day in “court” as they join this one of a kind legal educational program from Juris Prudence Academy. The 90-minute workshop will teach academy students basic legal principles in a collaborative setting. Guided by a lawyer, students will participate in a mock trial, applying the principles they have learned in the workshop.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Go prehistoric at Strathmore for Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live Friday night
* See a special performance of Aladdin by The Washington Ballet at THEARC
* Reserve free tickets to see Christylez Bacon, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National show
* The Kennedy Center presents puppetry for children with Grug and the Rainbow
* Jack and the Beanstalk in on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Magic Toyshop is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* Little ones will love Art on the Horizon’s Nutt and Bolt (sold out online, so call about tickets)
* From the Mouths of Monsters is a Frankenstein-inspired show at the Kennedy Center
* Saturday is the last chance to see The Freshest Snow Whyte at Imagination Stage
* Catch a whiff of The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales at Alden Theatre
* Enjoy funky folk msic for the whole family at a Billy Jonas concert hosted at Tikvat Israel Congregation on Sunday

Women in Aviation and Space
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
Throughout the history of aviation and space exploration, women have fought to be on equal terms with their male counterparts. At this family day, learn about the significant contributions women have made despite the many challenges they faced. The day will feature presentations by women in the field, hands-on activities, and stories.

Movie at the Museum: Long Way North
Where: National Gallery of Art
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am
Admission: Free
Set in 1892, this animated adventure, part of the Environmental Film Fest, follows 15-year-old Russian aristocrat Sacha as she leaves behind her comfortable Saint Petersburg life in the hopes of tracking down and saving her beloved grandfather, Oloukine, a famous explorer who has gone missing near the North Pole. Sacha has always been fascinated by the exciting life of her grandfather and dreams of becoming an explorer, too. But Sacha’s parents strongly disapprove of her ambitions and, in fact, have already made arrangements for her marriage. Defying her destiny, Sacha flees her home and launches a daring quest toward the Great North in search of Oloukine and his ship. Recommended for ages 11 and up.

Environmental Film Fest
Where: Several locations around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by film
Films from across the globe are being screened around the DC-Metro area for the the 25th annual Environmental Film Festival. And there are a few family-oriented flicks among them. Born in China follows three animal families into the wilds of China. Conquest of the Skies highlights the power of flight in nature. Little film-goers will be enthralled by Light on Earth about creatures that glow. Cat people will enjoy Kedi about the felines that have roamed the streets of Istanbul for thousands of years. There are even more films that older kids will likely enjoy and learn from and others to consider for a grown-up outing. View the websites watch trailers and get showtimes and details.

Spring Batiks Workshops
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Saturday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: $27/member, $32/non-member
Kids in grades 3-6 can learn how to create a vibrant springtime batik artwork on fabric with with instructor, Dollie Karolewski. Using melted crayons and fabric paints, each child will come away with their own unique 12×12″ artwork.

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.

Park it in Fairfax
Where: Several Fairfax parks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Fairfax County Park Authority hosts all kinds of events on weekends for guests of all ages. Search for birds and mammals at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by “going green” at Hidden Oaks Nature Center. Learn about the moon during a family astronomy session at Observatory Park at Turner Farm. Details and registration for these and even more activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

Park it in MoCo
Where: Montgomery County Parks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Montgomery Parks also presents loads of special activities for visitors of all ages. Go on a Family Green Hour walk at Locust Grove Nature Center, watch a raptor feeding at Nature Center, experiment with Awesome Acts of Science at Black Hill Visitors Center, and more. See the online calendar for details and even more events happening this weekend.

Clean-Up at the Colonial Farm
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Play a valuable role in preparing the Claude Moore Colonial Farm for its 2017 season and Opening Day on April 1. On this 18th century working farm and National Park trails and fields need to be cleared, fences rebuilt, and wood split, moved and stacked. There is also work in the greenhouse, cleaning animal pens, and a variety of other spruce up activities for all ages. It’s a great activity for families and groups, and you get picnic hot dog lunch! Bring work gloves and dress for the weather.

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 Eleanor Roosevelt and complete a hands-on activity. 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.

NOVA Mini Maker Faire
Where: South Lakes High & Langston Highs Middle Schools
When: Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: $15/adult, $5/children
It’s a gathering of inventors, entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and curious minds at the 4th annual NoVa Mini Maker Faire. The event inspires, informs, connects, and entertains thousands of attendees in a family-friendly environment. More than 100 makers will share their knowledge through hands-on projects for adults and kids in areas from primitive tools and blacksmithing to drones and 3D printers. Experience it all at South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School in Reston, VA.

Happy 20th, Millennium Stage!
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Sunday, 5pm
Admission: Free
The Kennedy Center celebrates a major milestone this month – the 20th anniversary of Millennium Stage, the only U.S. institution that offers a free performance every day of the year, (6 p.m. daily on the Millennium Stage). The celebration will feature performances by Celtic rock band, Scythian, and New Orleans funk band, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, in a massive party overtaking the Center’s Grand Foyer. Go early! The first 1,000 fans get a free T-shirt, and ticket giveaways will be open for entry until 8pm! A special MS20 happy hour from 5-6 p.m. features all beer and wine 50% off at the Grand Foyer Bars.

Go KidFree!
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Need ideas for things to do sans kids? Here are a few suggestions of some places and activities for KidFree fun this weekend:
*Get your green on for St. Pat’s Day at one (or more) of these 17 places
*Watch March Madness out at a local spot
*Enjoy some Hemingway on stage at a performance of The Select (The Sun Also Rises) at the Lansburgh Theatre
*Grab an Instagram-worthy drink and bite at the Pop-Up Cherry Blossom Bar
*Savor tapas and sangria at Joselito, a new(ish) Spanish restaurant on Capitol Hill

The Weekend Round-Up: March 10-12

A feast for the eyes at Infinity Mirrors

Between the winter temps on the way and all the great options for fun things to do, this weekend will be extra cool. Check out an exhibit or special program at a museum, shoot for some college hoops action, catch a live show, start your celebrations early for St. Pats and Pi Day, get in one last skate outdoors, find a new place to play indoors. These pursuits and more will have you and your crew ready to spring forward (don’t forget to change your clocks — Daylight Saving Time starts Sunday)! Happy Weekend!
Update: Be aware of street closings on Saturday due to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon!

The Inside Scoop
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Winter is finally coming, so you might need extra ideas for indoor outings. Burn some energy at an indoor playground, visit a museum, explore a historic place, bring the outdoors in at a nature center…this post has 90 suggestions for activities and places inside, most them mainstays around DC, and just about all of them tried and tested by the Team KFDC.

Prelude to Madness
Where: Verizon Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The best part of the college hoops season is beginning, and there will be live action in DC as the Big Ten Tournament is hosted at the Verizon Center. You can still get tickets for the games, though you’ll have to go through resale outlets. With so many strong teams in the conference, it promises to be an exciting tourney! (Go, Terps!)

Family Owl-tings
Where: Huntley Meadows Park
When: Friday, 5:45 – 7pm & Saturday, 12-2pm
Admission: $7/Friday, $9/Saturday
On Friday evening, discover the secret world of owls on a family owl outing. Find out what makes these raptors excellent predators of the night, then venture out on a trail hike as guides try to hear or spot one of Huntley’s resident owls. Recommended for participants ages 6 and up. On Saturday, join the Festival of Owls as special guests from the Raptor Conservancy will there with feathered friends. Meet local owls up close and personal. Learn how the raptors live, hunt and survive. Touch real owl feathers and bones, dissect owl pellets, make an owl craft, and learn how you can help protect these elusive birds of the night. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Register in advance here!

Have A Ball with American Pops
Where: First Congregational UCC
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: $15-32
Cinderella has never sounded sweeter! This heartwarming and comedic retelling of the fairy tale classic is one part storybook and four parts Great American Songbook. Four lovable and dynamic singer-actors bring a huge cast of characters to life with the use of colorful costumes and playful props, as they join forces with the American Pops Orchestra to introduce the next generation of music lovers to some of the best-loved American songs of the Twentieth Century. This show is interactive and immersive, with plenty of audience participation and fun for all ages. First Congregational UCC is located at 945 G Street NW.

Kids in the Castle
Where: Heurich House Museum
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
The Heurich House Museum is opening its doors for free, self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the gilded details of the Heurich family home at their own pace. The first floor, second floor, and basement, and the museum garden will also welcome guests to play and relax after going through the house. Children and their parents are invited to wander through it all and complete a scavenger hunt to win prizes.

Later, Skaters
Where: Local ice rinks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
This weekend is your last chance to hit the ice al fresco. Local outdoor ice skating rinks (the ones that are still open, anyway) are shutting down their Zambonis after Sunday. See this post listing them all for details on where you can glide ‘neathe the sky one last time this winter (and be sure to note that Canal Park is already closed).

The Tuskegee Experience
Where: National Museum of African American History & Culture
When: Saturday, 11am – 3:30pm
Admission: Free, but tickets required
At this NMAAHC Community Day, guests can learn about and possibly meet Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen, who overcame segregation and prejudice to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of World War II. Experience historical tap dance (and take a tap lesson!), see a puppet show, take a self-directed tour in Double Victory: the African American Military Experience, and do hands-on activities. Register for the event here!

Weaving Winter Trees Workshop
Where: Anne Marie Sculpture Garden
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $15/member, $20/non-member
Kids in grades 3rd – 6th can get ready to say farewell to winter with a special art project. Students will learn the basic fundamentals of weaving with instructor, Dollie Karolewski. They’ll also paint a winter scene and then weave a fiber tree into the scene. Register in advance here.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Ella Enchanted is on stage at Adventure Theatre
* PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” will be at the National Theatre this weekend
* InterAct Story Theatre kicks of Season 2 of their Wheaton Family Theatre Series with a performance by Tom Teasley
* Little ones will love Art on the Horizon’s Nutt and Bolt (sold out online, so call about tickets)
* Jack and the Beanstalk in on the Main Stage at The Puppet Co.
* And Tiny Tots Sing-a-Long is this week’s featured Tiny Tots show
* From the Mouths of Monsters is a Frankenstein-inspired show at the Kennedy Center
* Catch The Freshest Snow Whyte at Imagination Stage

KidFree Entertainment
Where: Lanburgh Theatre, Sidney Harman Hall, & Arena Stage
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Shakespeare Theatre Company presents two productions to applaud right now! The Select (The Sun Also Rises) brings a Hemingway classic to the Lansburgh Theatre stage with a cleverly directed and superbly acted show. And King Charles III is a thought-provoking drama that pits the monarchy against parliament, putting England in a national conflict that is, coincidentally, timely and familiar. And at Arena Stage, Intelligence is a political thriller running through April 9. All best for KidFree outings, but older tweens and teens could enjoy them, too.

Objects of Wonder
Where: National Museum of Natural History
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Catch the debut of a new exhibition at the museum that’s always a kid fave. More than 145 million artifacts and specimens, including many exceptional objects rarely seen by the public, will be on view for guests. Explore the scope and splendor of the world’s most extensive natural history research collection.

Earth Explorers
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $15/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.

See Stars
Where: Arlington Planetarium
When: Friday/Saturday, 7:30pm & Sunday 1:30pm/3pm
Admission: $5/adult, $3/children 12 and under (cash only)
Get a close look at the night sky at a planetarium show. Open for public multimedia programs on weekends throughout the school year, the Arlington Planetarium presents “Undiscovered Worlds” on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm. “One World One Sky,” a Sesame Street adventure featuring Big Bird plays on Sunday at 1pm, and “Magic Tree House: Space Mission” will be shown at 3pm. Doors open 15 minutes prior to show time and are closed and locked once the program begins. Sky theater has a 58 seat capacity. Once full capacity is reached, the doors will be closed.

Gaithersburg St. Patty’s Parade
Where: Washingtonian Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
The city’s 17th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will include both traditional Irish performances and classic parade pageantry. Celtic dancers, bagpipes, marching bands, clowns, firetrucks, and more will make their way through town.

District of Love March
Where: Emery Rec Center
When: Saturday, 10:30am – 2:30pm
Admission: Free
March to support diversity and inclusion in our community. Celebrate with local artists, musicians, and community members, and enjoy featured musical acts Elena y Los Fulanos, Lilo, Ethiopian Dance and more! The March will go right through some of DC’s most diverse neighborhoods along Georgia Ave. NW starting at Georgia and Madison St. NW at the Emery Rec. Center and marching down to U St ending at the African-American Civil War Memorial Site.

Dr. Seuss on the Loose Dance Party!
Where: Kensington Town Hall
When: Saturday, 3-5pm
Admission: $5 person, $20/family
Join the Noyes Children’s Library Foundation for the Dr. Seuss on the Loose Dance Party! Dance, wiggle and giggle with Aaron Anderson of A-Squad Entertainment. Create crafty masterpieces, enjoy the Dr. Seuss Read-a-Thon Room, and don’t miss the Seuss-themed raffle. All ages welcome (recommended for ages 18 months – 6 years). Please bring a book for our book drive for Crossway Community in Kensington. RSVP at facebook.com/MakeMoreNoyes. Kensington Town Hall is located at 3710 Mitchell Street in Kensington, MD.

DC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Where: Constitution Ave. from 7th to 17th Streets NW
When: Sunday, 12pm
Admission: Free
Find a spot on the curb along Constitution Avenue to watch the 46th annual St. Patrick’s parade roll through the city. Floats, marching bands, Irish dancers, bag pipers, members of the police and fire departments, and other entertainment will be part of the celebratory spectacle.

Purim Carnival
Where: Congregation Adat Reyim
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
This fun holiday event is open to everyone of all ages! Come in costume and enjoy games, food, face painting, balloons, a lego zone, caricaturist, and much more. Enter to win exciting raffle and silent auction prizes including Disney World passes, gift cards to restaurants, local businesses and birthday parties! Admission is free, but game tickets are $0.50 each, raffle tickets are $1 each, and food will be for sale.

Science Talent Search Project Exhibition
Where: National Geographic
When: Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Science enthusiasts of all ages will love the Regeneron Science Talent Search Public Exhibition of Projects! Meet the top 40 young scientists in the nation (all high school seniors competing for $1.8 million in awards) as they share their original research projects.

Purim Carnival
Where: Edlavitch DCJCC
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission:
When was the last time you dressed up like a queen or king? Now is your chance – the EDCJCC’s Purim Carnival is the perfect time for children and adults to dress up and celebrate this festive annual holiday! Enjoy carnival games, arts & crafts, hamantaschen (yummy Purim treats), music and a Purim play. And don’t forget your costume! Teen Jewish a cappella group from Congregation Beth El in Bethesda, Marak HaYom (which means “soup of the day” in Hebrew) will perform. Register here.

A Day of Flying in the Great Hall
Where: National Building Musem
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Partake in some super fly activities at the Building Museum. All ages can drop in on Sunday to watch as the DC Maxecuters demo all kinds of model planes in and across the Great Hall. Of course, you can enjoy all the other NBM offerings the rest of the weekend (admission fee required for some).

Full STEAM Ahead: Baffling Biomimicry
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Preschool-aged children and their caretakers are invited to visit the artLAB for hands-on investigations and challenges! This program is designed to help children explore, observe, ask questions, and make predictions as they create and play! Activities themed around money are planned for this fun and imaginative session.

Family Dance
Where: Glen Echo Park Ballroom Annex
When: Sunday, 3pm
Admission: $5/ages 4 and up
Join the Family Dance session that takes place the second Sunday of each month. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the joy of dance with your children and the community. No experience is necessary, just and dance — a family dance leader will show you everything you need to know right then and there, with a focus on having fun! Recommended for families with kids ages 4-12, but all ages welcome!

Games + Pi
Where: Labyrinth Game Shop
When: Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Pi Day is Tuesday, but Labyrinth is celebrating a couple of days early. Stop in for some of their favorite math-themed games as well as free pie. They’ll have a variety of games to play, so drop by and get in a play or two!

**PLAN AHEAD**
Get KFDC insight to prep for some of DC’s most popular outings and events:
* Read a review of the Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors exhibit at the Hirshhorn to get an idea of what to expect and tips for visiting with kids
* March 19-22 are the new predicted cherry blossoms peak dates, and KFDC has tips to help you plan for and make the most of your bloom viewing experience
* The KFDC Guide to the National Museum of African American History & Culture will help you navigate one of the city’s most remarkable new attractions with children