Jazz ‘n Families Fun Day

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June 18, 2015 · 12:45 pm

Jazzing it up at The Phillips Collection

Jazz in the Music Room

Music and art are a great combo, and we recently got to enjoy the mix during Jazz ‘n Families Fun Days at the The Phillips Collection. Not only is the annual event is a great prelude to the DC Jazz Fest with live performances and special activities for kids, it’s a nice way for young museum-goers to experience the Dupont Circle art gallery.

Drawing portraits at Jazz 'n Families Fun Day

Creating portraits at Jazz ‘n Families Fun Day

The Phillips Collection often isn’t on the radar of parents when it comes to museum outings with the kids. Besides not being located among the popular museums on the Mall, there’s an admission fee for adults (which we Washingtonians aren’t used to), and some of the art probably seems sophisticated for children. But it’s a wonderful museum, showcasing works by many of the masters as well as interesting contemporary artists, that even budding art buffs could appreciate.

Contemplating a Picasso

Van Gogh’s “The Road” gets a thumbs-up

So, while the weekend of free family days is a great time to go with kids for the waived fee and special activities, the Phillips is worth exploring any time. And they help kids connect with the art by providing Discovery Packs, which are available at the admissions desk. The set of cards features select works from the collection with information about the pieces, tips of viewing them, and other ways to engage in the museum experience. (More tips for families are also available here.)

Reading about “Luncheon of the Boating Party”…

…then seeing it up close

And if you want to enjoy the art and music combo, too, Phillips after 5 on the first Thursday of every month includes art, live entertainment, food, and a cash bar. There are also occasional music events at other times.

Going contemporary

Interacting with the art

The Phillips Collection is located at 1600 21st Street NW, a short walk from the Dupont Circle Metro stop on the red line. Hours are Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 12-7pm, and Thursday extended hours 5-8:30pm. Admission is $12/adult, $10/students & seniors, free for ages 18 and under.

Day at the Museum

With a chance of storms in the forecast this weekend, a trip to the museum may be the perfect way to spend a day with the kids. And good timing—there are lots special events taking place at our local galleries, and there’s something going on for just about every interest. Of course, they aren’t just rainy day recommendations. Even if the precipitation passes us by, all of these events are sure to be a good time for the family.

Jazz ‘n Families Fun Days
Listen to live jazz as you tour the Phillips Collection—musicians will be interpreting the art through their music. Especially for kids: an instrument petting zoo, storytelling, and a chance to create souvenir artwork. Even better, admission is free (normally $10 on weekends). The event runs from 10am – 5pm on Saturday 6/5, and 11am – 6pm on Sunday 6/6.

World Ocean Day
World Ocean Day is June 8, but the National Museum of Natural History is celebrating early this Saturday, 6/5. Head to the Sant Ocean Hall for a day full of oceanic activities (nod to Lost intended). Kids can meet scientists who study the sea and learn about our connection to the ocean through a variety of demos and activities. They can also make a special keepsake and take the pledge to be an Ocean Friend. The event runs from 10:30am – 4pm, admission is free as usual.

Celebration of Textiles
This two-day festival at the Textile Museum is a wonderful opportunity for some hands-on textile exploration. Kids can explore the gallery, try some woodblock printing, and watch local artists and craftspeople at their trades—quilting, lace making, embroidery, weaving. The event is part of Museum Walk Weekend and taking place Saturday from 10am – 4pm, Sunday 1pm – 5pm. Admission is free.

Ready Set Glow!
Just in time for firefly season, the National Children’s Museum is hosting Ready Set Glow! to celebrate the launch of their new website game, “Help Flicker Find His Mate.” Kids can make a firefly flashlight, create a special firefly art project, and bask in the glow of a firefly show. The free event is from 11am- 4pm.

Start with the Arts Family Day
From June 6–12, VSA, the international organization on arts and disability, is bringing together artists, educators, researchers, and policymakers from around the world for a multicultural celebration of the arts and arts education. And it all starts this Sunday, 6/6, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. From 11:30am – 5:30pm, the Arts Family Day will have tons of activities for kids, including story quilts, clay projects, drawing, ukelele workshops, hula dancing, and more. Enjoy performances by Iceland’s Perland Theatre Group, Maryland’s Quest Theatre Company, and Tennessee’s Lake Rise Place. Admission is free.