Tag Archives: March 2018

The Weekend Round-Up: March 30 – April 1

Pop culture overload (in the best way possible) at Awesome Con!



It’s going to be an awesome weekend, and not just because a certain annual convention is in town (though that is reason enough). Easter celebrations, cherry blossom-inspired fun, live entertainment, art adventures, and outdoor pursuits are some of the other awesome ways to enjoy the next few days. Happy Weekend!

Awesome Con
Where: Washington Convention Center | Mount Vernon Square, DC
Whne: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Starts at $40/day, $10/10 & under (*discount below)

The mid-Atlantic’s premier pop culture convention brings a three-day celebration of television, movies, comic books, science, technology and more to DC. With hundreds of hours of programming, an impressive lineup of special guests, and exciting activities for fans of all ages, this is one fun event. We went last year and had a blast checking out games, toys, comics, art, tv and movie memorabilia, and more. And the cosplay is fantastic. Costumes encouraged. *Groupon has kids tickets for $3.75, and Certifikid is offering family admission for $55!

Go Fly a Kite!
Where: Washington Monument Grounds | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free

The Blossom Kite Festival is a favorite of the blossom season. The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument is truly a sight to behold. The sails you see flying at the Festival 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. 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.

Think Outside
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

It’s supposed to feel like spring for at least one day this weekend. Get out and enjoy the first flowers on a hike, in a garden, exploring a park or historical site, or playing a sport. This post has tons of recommendations for great places to hang outside.

Dinosaur Egg Hunt
Where: Hidden Oaks Nature Center | Annandale, VA
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $7-9/child

Stomp over to Hidden Oaks, where children ages 2-8 can enjoy a dinosaur-themed program and outdoor egg hunt while visiting dinoland in Nature Playce and make a dino craft. Pre-registration is required. Programs run several times throughout the day for 45-minute sessions. Canceled if there is rain.

Egg Hunt Weekend
Where: Clark’s Elioak Farm | Clarkesville, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $6

Little ones (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs throughout the day at this Maryland Farm that looks like something out of a story book! After hunting, they get to turn the eggs in for a goodie bag. The petting farm, rides, and play areas will be open for all to enjoy, too, along with gem mining and geode cracking. Be sure to take a look at the website for a heads-up on how the egg hunts will run, so you can make the most of your day there. Read more about Clarks Elioak in the KFDC post about the best outdoor places in the area.

Easter Treasure Hunt
Where: Mansion on O Street | Dupont Circle, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $28

Don your favorite Easter bonnet and celebrate spring with a fun filled treasure hunt at The Mansion on O! Search for special Easter & spring themed items found only at The Mansion. Prizes for best Easter bonnet and decorated egg contest — bring your decorated egg with you to enter. Hurry! This hunt hops away after Easter Sunday. Read more about this wonderfully unique place and get a glimpse in this KFDC post.

More Egg-Cellent Celebrations
Where: Around the DMV
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 your whole gang. Enjoy loads of festivities at Ticonderoga Farm or Butler’s Orchard. Find a great nature-themed activity at NoVa Parks. Take a special Bunny Train Ride. Fill a basket at an Eggstravagnza. Or find another egg-cellent event where you can celebrate here.

Burning Man Comes to DC
Where: Renwick Gallery | Downtown DC
When: Opens Friday
Admission: Free

If, like us, you’ve tried to go to the Renwick recently only to find it closed for renovations, this is why. The museum was preparing for No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man, an exhibit that is taking over the entire Renwick Gallery building, “bringing alive the maker culture of Burning Man through artworks, immersive installations, jewelry, costumes, and more.” And it doesn’t end there — an outdoor extension of the exhibition, No Spectators: Beyond the Renwick, will showcase sculptures from Burning Man throughout the surrounding neighborhood, too. (Anyone else thinking the next Wonder?!)

Growing Community
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free

All ages can drop in to explore how nature can be intentionally integrated into and around built spaces to help promote community and encourage civic engagement. Work with friends and family to design and build a large scale model of your own green space inspired by a park in your neighborhood or one you would like to see added to your community. Find out more about the importance of green space in urban areas during Ten (minute) Talks and a spring-inspired story time.

Dueling Pianos, Family-Style
Where: Bobby McKeys | National Harbor, MD
When: Saturday, 12:30-2pm
Admission: $20

The whole family can enjoy an afternoon of fun at one of Bobby McKey’s dueling piano shows. It’s two hours of all-request live music paired with a lunch buffet, that’s sure to make everyone happy. And this is a performance where kids are encouraged to wiggle in their seats and dance in the aisles! Plan on more fun at National Harbor while you’re there.

Show Time
Where: Theatres around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue

* Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is still on stage at Adventure Theatre
* The Big Apple Circus is in town for one final weekend
* The Kennedy Center presents Waves, all that Glows Sees
* Ease on down the road to Ford’s Theatre for The Wiz
* Little ones will love Balloonacy at Imagination Stage
* Catch a fairytale classic as The Puppet Co. presents Little Red Riding Hood & the 3 Little Pigs
* And Bunny Business is the Tiny Tots performance for littles there on Saturday

DC by Foot
Where: Various locations around DC & VA
When: Ongoing
Admission: Name your own price!

The tour company is celebrating the season (and the warm weather on Saturday) by adding some extra offerings this weekend. DC by Foot has a variety of walking tour options throughout the area, the National Mall tour said to be most appealing for kids. Along with learning about the history of the sites, guests can also enjoy scavenger hunts and trivia. And tours are name-your-own-price, so you pay at the end what you think the tour was worth.

Cherry Blossom Day at the Lab
Where: Children’s Science Center Lab | Fairfax, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $13

Fuse science and cherry blossoms and fun at the Lab! Visitors will create their own unique representation of a cherry blossom. Learn and grow crystals, explore the world of chemical reactions, solubility, and become chemists. Design your own cherry blossom petal, flower, or tree to take home and celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival. Read more about the Children’s Science Center Lab in this KFDC post.

Paints, Pigments, Brushes: All about Japanese Painting
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free

Enter the world of traditional Japanese painting, or nihonga, in this drop-in Open Studio workshop celebrating the National Cherry Blossom Festival. View a display of colorful pigments and brushes, and try making your own painting alongside visiting Japanese artists Ideguchi Yuki and Iwaizumi Kei. All ages welcome with adult companions.

Complimentary Community Day
Where: National Museum of Women in the Arts | Downtown, DC
When: Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free

The first Sunday of every month is a great opportunity explore the National Museum of Women in the Arts when admission is free! Works span the centuries, from the 16th to the present in a variety of mediums, highlighting women artists all over the world. Currently on view is Women House, which recasts conventional ideas about the home through provocative photographs, videos, sculptures, and room-like installations.

Isle of Dogs
Where: Movie theaters around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by theater

If you’re looking for a family flick to see this weekend, this apparently is the one. I haven’t seen it yet, but my kids have and both looooved it, Sasha claiming it to be her favorite movie ever. The film tells the story of a 12-year-old boy and an army of banished dogs who help him find his pet on a garbage dump island. Just the fact that it’s from Wes Anderson makes it a must-see (imo, anyway).

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***
* Dr. Derek Blank from DC Pediatric Smiles contributed a very informative post about children’s dental care (there’s also a GIVEAWAY for a $100 Whole Foods gift card!).
* Starting this Wednesday, April 4, the National Museum of African American History & Culture will have the first of four no-pass-required days (Wednesdays during April).
* It’s almost time paddling time! Get details on the many places where you can go with the flow around DC.
* A friend of mine recapped the March for Our Lives in this brilliant essay that perfectly describes what the movement ignited by the Parkland kids is all about.

Leave a Comment

Filed under 2018, All ages, Annual, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Festival, Free, Holidays, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Outdoor, Seasonal, Special Event, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: March 23-25

Marching for these two and ALL kids this weekend



Get ready for a big weekend in DC! And, as always, Happy Weekend!

March For Our Lives
Where: Pennsylvania Ave, 3rd-12th St NW | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, 12pm
Admission: Free

On Saturday, kids, families, and supporters of the movement to end gun violence will take to the streets in communities across the country to demand that their lives and safety become a priority. The March For Our Lives here in DC is the main event — student speakers, musical performers, guest speakers, and video tributes are part of the day’s schedule. This is an important event — it’s about our kids, and their future — and I encourage all to attend! This post has information to help plan for it, and there have been updates since I first posted it, so be sure to see what’s new.

Trapeze School Staff Showcase
Where: Trapeze School of New York (DC) | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, 8pm
Admission: $7

Start off the weekend with some high flying thrills! Trapeze School of New York (DC) is having their student and staff showcase on Friday evening. All ages will love seeing the flying trapeze, aerial silks, Spanish web, and more! Tickets are available here — select March 23 from the dropdown menu and ‘IFW Show’ from the options. Doors open at 7:30pm, and the show is approximately 1.5 hours long.

Bloomia Field of Tulips
Where: The Park at CityCenterDC | Downtown DC
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free

Spring into the season with DC’s very own Tulip Festival! For two days only, The Park at CityCenter will be filled with more than 40,000 tulips per day. Entry into the garden is free, and you can take a piece of spring home with you for $1/stem. Every purchase made supports DC Central Kitchen.

Cherry Blossom Festival
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free

Get Cherry Blossom season started at this celebration of Japanese culture. A taiko drumming performance will kick off the day, followed by Japanese music and a US premiere of Okinawa’s NS Ryukyu Ballet Company — their adventurous style interweaves classical dance with modern ballet and martial arts, highlighting cultural traditions of the region. Also enjoy face painting, make cherry blossom crafts, and go on a spring-themed scavenger hunt. Meet the 2018 Official Festival Artist Maggie O’Neill, local DC artist, designer, and creative entrepreneur, and join her for a hands-on workshop in our Luce Foundation Center.

Egg-Cellent Celebrations
Where: Around the DMV
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 your whole gang. Enjoy loads of festivities at Ticonderoga Farm or Butler’s Orchard. Find a great nature-themed activity at NoVa Parks. Take a special Bunny Train Ride. Fill a basket at an Eggstravagnza. Or find another egg-cellent event where you can celebrate here.

DC Baby Show
Where: Washington Convention Center | Mount Vernon, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $20/person, $30/family (see discount below)

Explore all of your favorite baby and children’s brands all in one place; connect with beloved influencers from the world of parenting and pregnancy; see, touch and feel the very products you’ve read about on blogs, liked on Instagram, or pinned on Pinterest. Planned with you in mind, the DC Baby Show is a family-friendly, mega-event featuring everything to do with maternity, baby, and toddler from over 200 top brands, to trusted parenting and pregnancy influencers, to exceptional fun, bonding and support. Register using promo code KIDFRIENDLY50 and save 50% on tickets!

Spirit Riding Free Launch Party
Where: Woodland Horse Center | Silver Spring, MD
When: Saturday, 12-2pm
Admission: Free

Giddy Up! Join a party to celebrate the Season 4 launch of Spirit Riding Free which started March 16. Enjoy an afternoon full of complimentary horseback riding lessons, barn tours, face painting, treats, giveaways, and more.
Guests must be at least ages 5 and up for the horseback riding lessons. Rain or shine!

Refuge System Birthday Bash
Where: National Wildlife Visitors Center | Laurel, MD
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.

Friendship Between Nations Family Day
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: March 24, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free

Join the National Archives for a fun, activity filled day exploring the many ways countries show their friendship, such as the gift of the cherry blossoms from Japan to the US. Investigate treaties, learn about some of the crazy gifts countries have given, and participate in interactive activities designed for the entire family to enjoy.

Show Time
Where: Theatres around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue

* Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is still on stage at Adventure Theatre
* Reserve free tickets for Bright Star Theatre’s The Velveteen Rabbit, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National performance
* The Kennedy Center presents Waves, all that Glows Sees
* Ease on down the road to Ford’s Theatre for The Wiz
* Little ones will love Balloonacy at Imagination Stage
* Catch a fairytale classic as The Puppet Co. presents Beauty and the Beast
* And Mother Goose Caboose is the Tiny Tots performance for littles there on Saturday

Peter and the Wolf
Where: THEARC | Anacostia, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $30+

The children’s orchestral classic comes to life in an engaging artistic collaboration with The Washington Ballet Studio Company and the DC Youth Orchestra Program. Best known as a children’s introduction to music and instruments, the addition of dance enriches the story as the tale of Peter comes to life in a tantalizing visual and musical tale that will inspire and enchant those of all ages. The program will also include a performance by The Washington Ballet @THEARC Performance Ensemble.

Big Apple Circus
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Through April 1
Tickets: $25-59 (look for a discount)

The Big Apple Circus is in town and celebrating its 40th Anniversary Season, featuring stunts never before seen under the big top. Known for its one-ring, artistic, European-style, no seat is more than 50 feet from the performers. That’s perfect for viewing some first-ever feats for the Circus along with fan favorites. Hire wire acts, contortionists, bicycle acrobatics, hilarious clowns, and doggie dances are some of thrills and fun you can expect. Read a review of one of our past experiences at a Big Apple Circus show.

Celebrate La Francophonie
Where: Bonjour Mama | Kensington, MD
When: Saturday, 10:30-11:30am
Admission: $9

March is the month of the Francophonie! Join Bonjour Mama for a celebration as teacher and musician Achille Ango plays and sings songs and stories in French from his native Cameroon. Music will be followed by a light snack and theme-related craft/activity. Ideal for children ages 1-6.  Advance purchase of tickets is required.

Muppet Babies Play Date
Where: Arundel Mills | Hanover, MD
When: Saturday, 12pm
Admission: Free

Arundel Mills invites the community to a “Muppet Babies”-themed Disney Junior Play Date event to celebrate the premiere of Disney Junior’s reimagined “Muppet Babies” on March 23. Families can enjoy a variety of activities including a Color Bingo Game, craft projects and face painting. The fun starts at noon in the Center Court at Neighborhood 4. This event does not include live character appearances.

Blacks in Wax
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Saturday, 6pm
Admission: Free

Iconic figures will be brought to life through performances by the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (SETLC) tennis youth scholars for the 12th Annual Blacks in Wax. This creative production of vignettes educates and entertains all ages through dance, music, and drama. Each year young performers breathe new life into American heroes from the worlds of sports, entertainment, activism, politics and literature. This year’s theme, “The Power of One,” shines a spotlight on individuals who spoke truth to power and ignited a movement; a celebration of those who with their words and actions took a stand for others.

Make Room for Matzah
Where: Edlavitch DCJCC | Downtown DC
When: 10:30 am – 12pm
Admission: $10/family by 3/23, $15/family at door

Join DCJCC for hands-on Passover activities including crafts, cooking, stories, and doing a mitzvah (good deed) project. It’s a perfect morning for Jewish and interfaith families with children ages 3 and older. Sign up by March 23, and it’s just $10 for your family. All registrations after March 23 will be $15/family and can be paid at the door.

John Wilmerding Community Celebration of American Art
Where: National Galery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Sunday, 11am to 6pm
Admission: Free

What’s your American story? Join the National Gallery of Art on Sunday for a celebration of American art and storytelling. Highlights include an original “Story Chorus” performance designed and lead by DC artist Holly Bass, a collaborative “sidewalk” project that asks participants to draw and write together, and engaging pop-up experiences with local educators and artists.

DIY Zone Workshop
Where: Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center | Hyattsville, MD
When: Sunday, 1-3pm
Admission: Free

Anyone can make a zine: all you need is some paper, a writing utensil, copy machine, and a desire to create. Meet the artists from not too high, not too low and learn how to get started designing your very own self-published, no rules art piece. Join DC’s long tradition of DIY, counterculture art at this free, walk-in workshop open to all ages.

Happy Nappy Storytelling & Kids Yoga
Where: Sankofa Video & Books | Shaw, DC
Whne: Sunday, 2-4
Admission: Free

Sankofa Video & Books invites children to strengthen their minds, bodies, and imaginations at Happy Nappy Storytelling! Kids can unwind with an age-appropriate yoga class sponsored by Twist and Turns Body Fitness, followed by an engaging story hour that features characters from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Yoga mats are provided. Yoga begins at 2 p.m. and storytelling starts at 3.  Recommended for ages 4-6.

Cool Hikes
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

If you want to get out of the crowded city and get a dose of nature, hit the trail! See spring buds getting ready to bloom, 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.

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***
* Sakura Yume // Cherry Blossom Dream, the newest installation at ARETCHOUSE is sold out this weekend, a good indication that you should reserve tickets for future dates!
* A Kickstarter just launched for This & That Lunch Kit by Lunch Squares, a product that will invite and excite kids to actively participate in preparing their school lunch and making it healthy and fun. And it was started by a local mom!
* Looking for a tween read for your middle schooler? Owen (6th grade) recently read this book for school and really enjoyed it.
* The RBG documentary coming out in May looks like a must-see.
* So does the one about Mr. Rogers opening in June. (Warning: Even the trailer requires tissues.)

Leave a Comment

Filed under 2018, All ages, Annual, Art, Cause, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Nature, Outdoor, Seasonal, Special Event, Spring, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Save 50% on Tickets to the DC Baby Show!

Get ready for a family-friendly mega-event! The DC Baby Show, a JPMA and Family Media event, is coming to Washington, DC, on Saturday, March 24:

• Explore all of your favorite baby and children’s brands all in one place
• Connect with beloved influencers from the world of parenting and pregnancy
• See, touch and feel the very products you’ve read about on blogs, liked on Instagram, or pinned on Pinterest

Planned with you in mind, the DC Baby Show is a family-friendly, mega-event featuring everything to do with maternity, baby, and toddler from over 200 top brands, to trusted parenting and pregnancy influencers, to exceptional fun, bonding and support.

Register using promo code KIDFRIENDLY50 and save 50% on tickets!

This post is sponsored by the JPMA Baby Show, however, I only promote programs, events, and services that I genuinely believe in and think would appeal to KFDC readers.

Leave a Comment

Filed under 2018, All ages, DC, Exhibit, Moms, Parents, Shop, Special Event, Spring, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: March 16-18

Dumbarton Oaks’ magical gardens are open again after many months of renovations



We’re on the brink of spring, even though it might not feel like it. Luckily, this round-up is full of great ways to get you through this last weekend of winter. But if you want a taste of activities for the new season, there are some recs to do that, too. And the posts listing indoor and outdoor ideas are always worth checking out as well. Happy Weekend!

Cherry Blossom Dream
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through May 6
Admission: $15/adult, $8/child

The newest exhibit at ARTECHOUSE is celebrating spring with one of DC’s seasonal favorites: Cherry Blossoms! Sakura Yume // Cherry Blossom Dream offers a new way to experience our city’s famous flowers. And with stunning imagery and fun interactives, all ages will find it delightful. Even if you don’t plan to go this weekend, I recommended snagging tickets while you can — the exhibits at this gallery always sell out.

Target $2 Family Night
Where: Port Discovery | Baltimore, MD
When: Friday, 4-8pm
Admission: $2

It’s a special Target $2 Family Fun Night at the children’s museum in Baltimore! Enjoy three floors of interactive exhibits along with fun and engaging programs for just a couple of bucks per person. You can also join in Circle Time, take part in Create and Read! activities, and learn about animals with the Maryland SPCA.

Welcome Back to the Garden
Where: Dumbarton Oaks | Georgetown
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/adult, $8/senior, $5/ages 2-12

After being closed since July for renovations, one of my very favorite places in DC is welcoming visitors again… Dumbarton Oaks has reopened its garden gates for the public to explore and enjoy its gorgeous grounds. I can’t yet tell you what’s new, but you can read about some of our past experiences at the urban oasis here and here.

Kids in the Castle
Where: Heurich House Museum | Dupont Circle, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free

Heurich House Museum will open its doors for free, kid-friendly, self-guided tours. Kids in the Castle gives families the chance to explore the ornate details of the Heurich. A suit of armor, woodcarvings of animals and magical beasts, and towering ceilings are just some of the features that make the mansion a magical castle to explore. Children and parents are invited to wander through the house at their own pace and complete a photo scavenger hunt to win prizes. Register for free tickets; only a limited number will be available at the door.

NoVa Maker Faire
Where: George Mason University | Fairfax, VA
When: Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: $15/adult, $5/children

It’s a gathering of tech enthusiasts, engineers, woodworkers, metal workers, auto hackers, artists, teachers, craftspeople, and curious minds at the 5th annual NoVa Maker Faire. The event inspires, informs, connects, and entertains thousands of attendees in a family-friendly environment. Makers from Northern Virginia,DC, and beyond will share their knowledge through hands-on projects for adults and kids in areas from primitive tools and blacksmithing to drones and 3D printers. It’s an event recommended for ages 4-94!

Cherry Blossom Entertainment
Where: Tidal Basin | National Mall Area, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free

We have a couple of weeks to go before the cherry blossom peak, but the National Cherry Blossom Festival officially begins this weekend. The big events come later, but starting Saturday there will be a variety of performances at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area. See what’s coming up over the next few weeks in this post about the best cherry blossom events for families.

Environmental Film Fest
Where: Several locations around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by film

Films from across the globe are being screened around the DC-Metro area for the the 26th annual Environmental Film Festival. And there are a few family-oriented flicks among them. Backyard Wilderness at the Air & Space Museum, March of the Penguins 2 at National Geographic, and Love and Bananas at the Naval Heritage Center are a few of them. 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 for more details.

A Gem of an Event
Where: Montgomery County Fairgrounds | Gaithersburg, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 6pm & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $6/age 12+ free/11 & under

Kids (and adults!) who like fossils, rocks, and/or gems are in for a treat. The 54th Annual Show of the Gem, Lapidary, and Mineral Society of Montgomery County, MD will have all that and then some. There will be dealers selling collectibles, demonstrations, exhibits, door prizes, free workshops, free specimens for kids, mini mines, and more

Show Time
Where: Theatres around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue

* Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is on stage at Adventure Theatre
* Reserve free tickets for Shakespeare For The Young: The Tiniest Tempest, this week’s Saturday Morning at the National performance
* Ease on down the road to Ford’s Theatre for The Wiz
* The Prince and the Pauper – A Bollywood Tale is on the Imagination Stage for its final weekend
* And little ones will love Balloonacy at the Bethesda Theatre
* Catch a fairytale classic as The Puppet Co. presents Beauty and the Beast
* And Mother Goose Caboose is the Tiny Tots performance for littles there on Saturday
* The Alden Theatre presents The Snow White Variety Show at The Old Firehouse in McLean

Track & Field Championships
Where: PG Sports and Learning Complex | Landover, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 8am – 6pm
Admission: Free

The 2018 Masters Indoor Championships is taking place in the DC area and promises to be an exciting showcase of indoor track and field events including racewalking, relays, and the men’s and women’s indoor Pentathlon. The competition will feature athletes from 30 to 100+! Among the entrants are reigning world champions, former Olympians, recent world record setters, defending national champions, and many Washington Metro Area stars. Spectators are welcomed, and admission is free!

Big Apple Circus
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Through April 1
Admission: $25-59

The Big Apple Circus is in town and celebrating its 40th Anniversary Season, featuring stunts never before seen under the big top. Known for its one-ring, artistic, European-style, no seat is more than 50 feet from the performers. That’s perfect for viewing some first-ever feats for the Circus along with fan favorites. Hire wire acts, contortionists, bicycle acrobatics, hilarious clowns, and doggie dances are some of thrills and fun you can expect. Read a review of one of our past experiences at a Big Apple Circus show.

Willy Wonka Fundraiser
Where: Mellow Mushroom | Adams Morgan, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Donations encouraged

Want to support education, celebrate community activism, and eat pizza — all while watching the classic film, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory? Join Mellow Mushroom for a SCRUMPDIDDLYUMPTOUS time on Saturday for a family friendly afternoon filled with fizzy lifting drinks, photo booths, invention stations, special guests and a screening of the beloved film. The event is the brainchild of Amelia, a Marie Reed Elementary School 2nd grader! Proceeds will benefit the school’s PTA and donations for Golden Ticket admission will be accepted at the door.

Harlem Globetrotters
Where: Capital One & Eagle Bank Arenas | Penn Quarter, DC & Fairfax, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $25 and up

The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to DC with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. With incredible ball handling wizardry, amazing rim-rattling dunks and trick shots, side-splitting comedy, and unequaled on-court fan interaction, this event is guaranteed to entertain the whole family.

The Littlest Viking Story Time
Where: Solid State Books | H Street NE, DC
When: Sunday, 10:30-11:30am
Admission: Free

Join illustrator Isabel Roxas for a creative story time, live drawing demo, and signing of her newest book at the new bookstore on H Street! The Littlest Viking tells the tale of Sven… he might be the littlest Viking, but he has no trouble making himself known. He has the loudest warrior cry and the fiercest set of teeth. He loves to pillage and plunder. But there’s a new kid in town—a warrior princess, who is smaller than Sven and even louder. What’s a little Viking to do?

Protectors of the Wild
Where: National Geographic | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: $15/adult, $10/age 7-12, free/6 & under

At this month’s Adventures in Exploration for families watch a screening of the thrilling film Mission Critical: Orangutans, play Kahoot!, and meet daring and innovative National Geographic Explorers Topher White and Juliana Machado Ferreira, who are using cell phones to stop illegal activity in the rain forest and working to save the world one stolen bird at a time.

Adventure in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by age

The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring reopens for the season this weekend! 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.

Burpees and Beer
Where: Capitol Quarter Community Center | Southeast DC
When: Saturday, 9:30-11:30am
Admission: Free

FIT4MOM® Capitol Hill is hosting a special family fitness class to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This FREE all ages workout will be structured like a typical FIT4MOM Stroller Strides® class, a stroller-based fitness program designed for moms (and dads) with little ones. The 60-minute, total body workout incorporates cardio, strength, core, songs and activities. The instructor will offer modifications for all fitness levels. Families are also invited to join FIT4MOM® Capitol Hill at Bluejacket Brewery after class for brunch and beers — participating adults are eligible for one complimentary beer!

Kids Corner – Make March Matter
Where: The Plaza | CityCenter, DC
When: Saturday
Admission: Free

Join CityCenter and DC Public Library for Kids Corner – Make March better edition! From 11am – 12pm, librarians from DCPL will lead a story time full of books, songs, rhymes, and fingerplays. This story time is a great way to introduce your child to language skills in a positive and fun outdoor environment. There will be even more kids activities going on throughout the day — see the website for details. *Weather permitting!

Spring Clean-Up
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm | McLean, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free

Help Claude Moore, a local National Park and working colonial farm, get ready for the 2018 season! There will be a variety of chores and tasks available for all ages. Dress for the weather and bring work gloves. Enjoy a complimentary hot dog picnic lunch for your work. RSVP to volunteers@1771.org.

Are You Ready for Some Fútbol?
Where: Maryland SoccerPlex | Boyds, MD
When: Saturday, 1:30pm
Admission: $25

DC United kicks off their first home (away from home) match of the season at the Maryland SoccerPlex. This is were they will be playing until the new Audi Field opens in an anticipated four months. And if you need to catch up more on this and the local pro soccer scoop, check out the DC United website.

Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Depot | Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free

Visit the historical Vienna Stain station 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). Locomotive, rail car, and towns industry in this layout is modeled after those places and things as they looked in that era. Thomas the Tank Engine (and a few of his friends) are chugging around among the bigger steam and diesel locomotives. The Vienna Depot is located at 231 Dominion Road NE in Vienna, Virginia just down the street from the red caboose. Check out the virtual tour here.

Brain Awareness Day
Where: National Museum of Health & Medicine | Silver Spring,MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free

Explore the exciting world of neuroscience! Join brain scientists, researchers, clinicians, and museum educators to enjoy interactive demonstrations and exhibits about the brain. Learn about prevention and treatment of traumatic brain injury Discover how your brain works! Hold a REAL brain! (Note: This is museum is incredibly fascinating but maybe not for the faint of heart. Read more about why here.)

DC Way Soccer Festival
Where: Tyler Elementary School | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Sunday, 12-2pm
Admission: Free

DC Way welcomes parents and kids to gather, play soccer, socialize, and have fun! This festival program consists of fun soccer related games, relays, and contests to win prizes. Activities include soccer tennis, a kids vs. parents game, sharpshooters game, 2v2 tournament, penalty and accuracy contests, obstacle courses, and more.  It’s great way to for kids to practice their skills in an interactive and engaging setting, and an opportunity for parents to join in on the fun as well! There will also be prizes, such as drawstring bags, water bottles, and t-shirts.

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***
* Tech Savvy Mama has a great post about how to help our kids advocate for gun control after the National School Walkout.
* Looking for a fun, active way for your kid to spend Spring Break? DC Way has room available in their spring soccer camp. (Sign up is open for summer, too!)
* Just put this book on my “want to read” list. Have you read it yet?
* The first official post for the new T(w)een Scene section went up last weekend.
* Earlier this week, 7,000 pairs of empty shoes, representing children killed by guns since Sandy Hook, were lined up on the U.S. Capitol lawn to make a statement about gun control. If you didn’t get to witness it in person, see photos and get more info about the Monument to Our Kids.

2 Comments

Filed under 2018, All ages, Annual, Art, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Movies, Museums, Outdoor, Seasonal, Sports, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend, Winter

It’s a Cherry Blossom Dream this Spring at ARTECHOUSE



ARTECHOUSE, the Southwest DC gallery specializing in creative works that merge art and technology, has been celebrating the seasons through large-scale installations that reflect the time of year with stunning visuals and neat interactives. And it probably comes as no surprise that the newest one, the spring exhibit, features one of DC’s seasonal favorites: Cherry Blossoms.

Sakura Yume // Cherry Blossom Dream offers a new way to experience our city’s famous flowers. They might not be real in this digital environment, but they’re beautiful as they float along the lofty walls of the gallery’s main space along with colorful clouds of light created by your movements. Like past installations there, sensors are carefully placed to let you manipulate the art by waving your arms or walking along the wall where the images are projected.

More activations invite guests to interact with the art. You can virtually feed koi fish and make cherry blossoms bloom on an interactive table. There is a hall with paper lanterns hanging above that light up as you walk under them. Orange dots on a wall can be rearranged as you “move” them.

My favorite element — and the one I think will be a fave of most guests — is an interactive table that projects beautiful blossom and Japanese-inspired images and lets you play with light and color. Hands and fingers become paint brushes as you create big swaths of color or make butterflies appear out of gray backgrounds. It’s mesmerizing and therapeutic and just really delightful to see.

All ages, children and adults, will appreciate this Cherry Blossom Dream. Kids are welcome during daytime hours 10am – 5pm, but evenings 5:30-11pm are for adults only. The bar is open during these hours, serving tasty and gorgeous exhibit-inspired cocktails. And on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 5:30-7pm the Bloom Food Immersive Experience, a bento box style meal will also be available.

Sakura Yume // Cherry Blossom Dream
Where: ARTECHOUSE | 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, WDC
When: Daily through May 6, 2018
Hours: 10am – 5pm (all ages) | 5:30-11pm (21+)
Admission: $15/adult, $8/child | $85/Bloom Food Experience












Leave a Comment

Filed under 2018, All ages, Art, Date Night, DC, Eats, Exhibit, Seasonal, Spring, Weekdays, Weekend