1. Have you heard about the new Candytopia that just opened at Tysons Corner? The immersive, pop-up “museum” features candy sculptures, interactive exhibits, and of course, sweet treats to enjoy. Think Willy Wonka meets Kusama meets ICE!, and get your imaginations, cameras, and social media poses ready. The experience takes an hour or less, depending on your children’s ages, interest, and amount of time spent diving in the pit of faux marshmallows. Tickets are $30/adult, $23/age 4-12, free for kids 3 and under. (Thanks to KFDC Contributor Emily Moise for sharing this one!) And PS: If you’ve heard of CAMP stores, you’ll be excited to see one coming soon across from Candytopia!
2. This Thursday, March 30, is MLB Opening Day, and the Nats are swinging into the season with a home-opener against the Atlanta Braves — good timing for families with kids on Spring Break this week! The game begins at 1:05pm, and there will be extra activities to enjoy before it starts. The World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales will take a tour of the Navy Yard neighborhood before finishing up at Nationals Park. There will also be live entertainment by several DJs in the ballpark. And caricature artists, face painters, and balloon twisters will bring more fun to the Family Picnic Area. Tickets are still available and start at $35. If you can’t make it Thursday, plan for a game another time this season, and be sure to check out special promos. And for a chance to see some Nats stars even sooner, fans are invited to attend the red carpet arrivals prior to the 2023 Nationals Homecoming Gala that is being held this evening at The Anthem located at The Wharf. Arrivals are scheduled from approximately 5-7pm outside The Brighton, host of the official Red Carpet Watch Party.
3. We recently had a chance to try Spicebird, a new takeout/delivery food option that specializes in Southeast Asian roast chicken. It was delicious, and perfect for feeding our family of four! The spice-rubbed chicken was so flavorful, and the sides were tasty and interesting — we especially enjoyed the Thai basil fried rice, tumeric cabbage, and berempah potatoes, but everything was so good. A whole chicken with two sides is just $33, and you can order more a la cart. (Full disclosure: Our meal was complimentary, but sharing my honest opinion!)
‘Tis the Cherry Blossom Season
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
The cherry blossoms just hit their peak at the Tidal Basin, so you can see them in all their glory. You can also seek out other places to view them — these cherry blossom viewing tips includes suggestions for where to go. Even more, events and activities to celebrate the iconic bloom are getting into full swing. Some are listed below, and you can find even more happening this weekend in this post as well as plan for the rest of the season.
Blossom Kite Festival
Where: Washington Monument Grounds | National Mall, DC
When: SUNDAY, 10am – 4:30pm (new date due to rain)
Admission: Free
The sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument truly is a sight to behold. The sails you see flying at the Kite 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 — you can BYO, purchase on there, and pick up a kit to make your own.
Free Family FunFest
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 1:30pm
Admission: Free
This free festival from the Bowie Baysox annual is loaded with fun for the whole family. Enjoy carnival-style rides and games, lots of activities from Baysox sponsors and partners, opportunities to hang out with mascots Louie and Rocko, raffles, and more. Fans can also tour the field and walk the warning track. Even more, the Bowie Police Department will be there with police cars, horses from the Maryland National Capital Park Police Mounted Unit, and fire apparatus from PG Fire & EMS.
Cherry Blossom Family Celebration
Where: American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join SAAM for their annual celebration of spring and the blooming trees of DC. Enjoy taiko drumming and traditional Japanese dance performances, and break out your best Japanese pop dance moves with Les the DJ. Craft your own cherry blossom trees to take home, make a kinobori kite to fly at the kite festival, or try your hand at an origami Sakura. And a scavenger hunt will add some extra fun to explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt and enjoy festive. Register in advance. See more about the museum in this KFDC post.
RiverRun Festival
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through April 22
Admission: Varies by event (some free)
This international festival celebrating the world’s rivers fittingly started on World Water Day and runs through Earth Day. The festival is presenting all kinds of performances and events by talent from across the globe. Performing and visual artists, authors, chefs, filmmakers, climate experts, and more fascinating people will bring world-class performances, exhibitions, films, talks, workshops, and more events to the Kennedy Center. This weekend, you can view art installations and exhibits inside the Kennedy Center and on the grounds of The REACH and do some of your own art projects inspired by the world’s rivers in the Moonshot Studio.
Meet the Author & Hear a Reading
Where: SAY DC Studio | Rhode Island Ave NW, DC
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: Free
Join Say, the stuttering association for the young, for this special event with acclaimed author C.C. Harrington. Hear her read a passage from her book, Wildoak. Attendees will also have a chance to ask questions, learn about the process of writing stories, get copies of the book signed, and do a nature-inspired craft project. Register in advance here!
Beauty and the Beast
Where: Synetic Theater | Rosslyn, VA
When: Through April 3
Admission: $35-65
This fresh adaptation is a sparkling and inspiring Gothic romance full of wonder, mystery and redemption expressed through Synetic’s unique stage effects, expressionistic design, puppetry and movement. No sing-alongs or talking teacups from Disney’s animated film in this piece of theater art. Though just as magnificent, this show’s got bite. Note that this production of Beauty and the Beast contains fantasy violence and may be scary to younger children.
The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Admission: $12-39
Kameeka is confident that today she will finally beat her rival, Jamara, and become the Hula-Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street in Harlem. But she has to prepare for Miz Adeline’s birthday party, and almost ruins the day. Until Miz Adeline confesses that she’s also got the itch–the hula-hoopin’ itch! Her fingers start snappin’. Her hips start swingin’. Soon everyone’s hips are swinging as the party spills out onto the street.
The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon Where: George Mason Center for the Arts | Fairfax, VA When: Saturday, 1pm & 4pm Admission: $15
Catch a show based on the beloved book… The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon follows the zany adventures of an inventive young boy. Resourceful and brave, Harold creates the world he wants to explore, using nothing more than a big purple crayon and his sky’s-the-limit imagination. Enchantment Theatre Company’s production takes you on a wild ride as Harold jets to Mars, joins a circus (he tames a lion!), and rescues a princess in an enchanted castle. Combining life-size puppets, pantomime, dance, magic, and original music, The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon will delight and amaze its audiences, from children to grandparents—anyone, in fact, whose heart is young and adventurous. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
Fitting In
Where: Theatre on the Run | Alexandria, VA
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $10
Arts on the Horizon presents this show for littles… Three siblings find themselves in a room full of possibilities and one not so simple task- to put things in their proper place. However, they soon discover that throwing this and that into a box is not the same as finding where it fits in. Through clowning, movement, and original music, three performers will transform everyday objects into something extraordinary. Is a blanket a blanket? Or is it the sail of a boat setting off on an epic voyage? Together, we can find the magic buried in the bottom of every box, and hidden inside the world around us! Recommended for ages 2-5.
Wake Up, Brother Bear
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Admission: $12-39
Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in an unforgettable theatre experience. Recommended for ages 1-5.
Fun on the Farm + Egg Hunts
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $12/adult, $10/child
Great Country Farms has opened for the season! The five-acre area contains all kinds of fun that little ones love — rope swings, tractor tires, giant tube slides and more! See animals in the barnyard, get lost in a maze, and test agility skills on the farm ninja course. you can also get the Easter celebration started early — egg hunts are starting this weekend, too. Reserve timed tickets in advance.
Wizards vs Spurs
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary (check for discount)
The Wizards are playing at home on Saturday evening — watch them work some on-court magic against the San Antonio Spurs. Get there early to get in on the Caron Butler bobblehead giveaway for the first 10,000 fans. And plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Hill Country BBQ.
DC United vs. New England Revolution
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 7:30pm
Admission: Tickets start at $25 (look for discount tix)
Check out some soccer action on Saturday evening. DC United is hosting New England Revolution at home on Saturday. As always, I recommend taking public transportation or parking in the Navy Yard neighborhood and walking to Audi Field from there. Plan for a pre-match bite — El Bebe, All Purpose Pizza, The Salt Line, and Dacha are conveniently located and my top recs for family-friendly spots to eat there.
Family Funday with King Bullfrog
Where: Hook Hall | Petworth, DC
When: Sunday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $5
Bring the kiddos for some dancing and singing with King Bullfrog at Hoook Hall on Sunday. Coffee and frozen drinks will be available for purchase for parents, and crafts for the kids to enjoy! Proceeds from the show benefit DC Action!
Get in the Spirit of Women’s Soccer
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 4pm
Admission: Tickets start at $20
The Washington Spirit, our local women’s pro soccer team, kicks off their season at Audi field this weekend, as they take on Seattle’s OL Reign. Enjoy some amazing soccer play while supporting our home team and women in sports, plus see a few stars of women’s soccer (including the amazing Megan Rapinoe!) in action. Get BOGO tickets for $20 here or purchase other seats here.
NoVa Parking
Where: Various parks in Northern Virginia
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only are many of the locales within the NoVa Parks system great places to go for outdoor recreation, other activities within some of them are now available. Batting cages, mini golf, kayak and canoe rentals, and disc golf are some of them. And some are just beautiful to roam around. Find things to do by activity, or check out individual parks and see what they have going on. A couple of specific recs: Fountainhead, Pohick Bay, Potomac Overlook, and Meadowlark.
Petal Porches
Where: Around the DC area
When: Through April 16
Admission: Free
Check out local porches decorated for cherry blossom season! This newish tradition encouraged residents and businesses around the area to get creative and show their blossom spirit by decorating their porches, yards, and windows to spread joy and connect communities. Find a map here showing locations of all registered Petal Porches, so you can plan a walk or drive to see and share in the celebration of spring.
Celebrate Women’s History Where: Around DC When: Throughout the weekend Admission: Varies by activity
March is Women’s History Month, and there are so many great ways to celebrate it around DC, with something for all ages. See some exhibits, tour local landmarks, enjoy live entertainment… all of it showcasing women and their accomplishments. This post has details on where you can do that this month — and beyond!
Blooms at the Fort Where: Fort McHenry | Baltimore, MD When: Throughout the weekend Admission: $15 (some of the grounds are free)
DC isn’t the only city with cherry blossoms in bloom. You can see them in Baltimore, too, and Fort McHenry should be very near peak this weekend. It also makes for any interesting, informative, and enjoyable outing for all ages. Engaging exhibits range from historical objects and structures to multimedia displays and interactives. And the grounds located right on the Chesapeake are lovely to stroll on a nice day. Make a longer day of it in Baltimore (or even a weekend) — the KFDC Guide to Exploring Baltimore with Kids has ideas and info for all kinds of things to do.
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 flowers beginning 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*** * I was asked a lot about our family’s summer vacation in Greece, and I finally wrote about it!😊 * The Capital Weather Gang’s five best spots to see DC’s cherry blossoms besides the Tidal Basin. * Van Leeuwen Ice Cream just opened its first DC scoop shop in the Union Market neighborhood (418 Morse St. NE). * Soccer fans likely know already that Arsenal FC will be playing MLS All Stars at Audi Field this summer. * You should be able to get one of these in time for the festival tomorrow on Sunday if you order today. (If not, you can still use it later!) * Parent night out? Give a Hoot Comedy Club is presenting a lineup of DMV comedy all stars on Sunday evening.
Rhino sculptures for RiverRun at the Kennedy Center
1. RiverRun, an international festival celebrating the world’s rivers, begins today at the Kennedy Center! Fittingly starting on World Water Day and running through Earth Day, April 22, the festival will present all kinds of performances and events by talent from across the globe. Performing and visual artists, authors, chefs, filmmakers, climate experts, and more fascinating people will help carve an artistic path throughout the Kennedy Center — from the concerts halls and theaters to the Hall of States to The REACH to the outdoor grounds — with world-class performances, exhibitions, films, talks, workshops, and more events. View more details and the full schedule here.
2. Cherry Blossom Update: The iconic Tidal Basin trees are realllly close to peaking (see some pics here), but not quite there yet. My completely non-expert prediction is that they will be in full bloom in the next couple of days, which means it will be packed this weekend. Once again, I strongly recommend reading my Tips for Families Viewing the Cherry Blossoms if you plan to see them, and I can’t stress enough to avoid driving if you can. Not only is parking a pain, traffic getting to and nearby the blossoms can be a total cluster during bloom time, especially when big blossom events are happening like the annual Kite Festival on Saturday. And, generally, Metro is great way to get around anytime — and a DC thing to do!
Cherry Blossom Season
Where: Welcome Area | Tidal Basin, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: Free
With the cherry blossom peak apparently occurring earlier than predicted, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is starting earlier now, too. The Tidal Basin Welcome Area will open on Saturday, and a variety of entertainment will be presented on the ANA stage. Kids can also enjoy National Park Service activities and earn their Bloomin’ Junior Ranger badge. Note that even though the trees aren’t quite at their peak, they’re already starting to draw lots of people to see them. So be sure to read my Tips for Families Viewing the Cherry Blossoms if you plan to go.
Family Happy Hour with King Bullfrog
Where: Hill Center | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday, 5-7pm
Admission: $5/adult, $10/child, free/under 2
Bring the family out to enjoy a Friday evening filled with live music perfect for all ages! This concert will be indoors on the 2nd floor (if we get unseasonably warm weather, they might move it outdoors), perfect for little ones to run, dance, laugh, and play to the beat of their favorite songs! Beer, wine, and cheese & pepperoni pizza will be for sale.
Caps vs. Blues
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, 7pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Watch some sports action on ice. The Caps are hosting the St. Louis Blues at home on Friday evening. Plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Hill Country BBQ.
Adventure in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Varies by age
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring reopens for the season on Saturday and tickets are still available for many time slots! 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. See more about the park in this KFDC post.
A Gem of an Event
Where: Montgomery County Fairgrounds | Gaithersburg, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 6pm & Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: $6/age 12+, free/11 & under
Kids (and adults!) who like fossils, rocks, and/or gems are in for a treat. The 56th 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
Ireland at the Wharf
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
The Wharf and Kirwan’s Irish Pub are bringing the luck of the Irish to the waterfront with a free festival! Enjoy all the fun of a true Irish festival with Guinness beer, Irish coffee, whiskey, Irish dancing, rugby on the big screen, bands, and bagpipers. All ages welcome. Slainte!
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 annual DC Environmental Film Festival. And there are a few flicks among them that kids will likely enjoy. Fashion Reimagined, The Plastic Bag Store, Blueback, and Hollow Tree are a few of them (be sure to read descriptions to determine best ages). There are even more films to consider for a grown-up outing. View the website for more details and to view trailers.
Family Game Day
Where: Grace Covenant Church | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Join Grace Covenant Church for their Family Game Day! The community is invited to this special open house and day of fun that includes face painting, a balloon artist, games, an egg hunt, and more entertainment. The church is located at 417 9th St SE.
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, and discover how your brain works! (Note: This is museum is incredibly fascinating, but maybe not for young children or the faint of heart. Read more about why here.)
Harlem Globetrotters Where: Capitol One Arena | Downtown DC When: Saturday, 1pm Tickets: $25+
The Harlem Globetrotters 2023 World Tour is coming with game like never before! Your favorite Globetrotter stars are bringing out their amazing basketball skill, outrageous athleticism, and a non-stop LOL good time. Join the Globetrotters as they go head-to-head against the Washington Generals who will stop at nothing to try and defeat the world’s winningest team!
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.
Rapping about Reptiles
Where: Meadowlark Botanical Garden | Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, 2-3pm
Admission: $5
Do you love reptiles? Join this program to meet a box turtle, a painted turtle, and a few snakes. Naturalist Matt Felperin will share fascinating information on these natives of Virginia. All ages welcome. And plan to tour the rest of Meadowlark’s gorgeous grounds while you’re there — read more about it in this KFDC post.
The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Admission: $12-39
On the Imagination Stage this weekend… Kameeka is confident that today she will finally beat her rival, Jamara, and become the Hula-Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street in Harlem. But she has to prepare for Miz Adeline’s birthday party, and almost ruins the day. Until Miz Adeline confesses that she’s also got the itch–the hula-hoopin’ itch! Her fingers start snappin’. Her hips start swingin’. Soon everyone’s hips are swinging as the party spills out onto the street.
Beauty and the Beast
Where: Synetic Theater | Rosslyn, VA
When: Through April 3
Admission: $35-65
This fresh adaptation is a sparkling and inspiring Gothic romance full of wonder, mystery and redemption expressed through Synetic’s unique stage effects, expressionistic design, puppetry and movement. No sing-alongs or talking teacups from Disney’s animated film in this piece of theater art. Though just as magnificent, this show’s got bite. Note that this production of Beauty and the Beast contains fantasy violence and may be scary to younger children.
Sleeping Beauty on Strings Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD When: Friday, 10:30am | Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am & 1pm Admission: $15
In the Puppet Co.’s version of Sleeping Beauty, a funny frog storyteller ribbits the tale of offended fairies, silly royalty, and magic spells. Relive this classic fairy tale in this lovely Legacy rod-puppet show. Directed by Elizabeth Dapo. Recommended ages 4+. Run time approximately 45 minutes.
Fitting In
Where: Theatre on the Run | Alexandria, VA
When: Through March 26
Admission: $10
Arts on the Horizon presents this show for littles… Three siblings find themselves in a room full of possibilities and one not so simple task- to put things in their proper place. However, they soon discover that throwing this and that into a box is not the same as finding where it fits in. Through clowning, movement, and original music, three performers will transform everyday objects into something extraordinary. Is a blanket a blanket? Or is it the sail of a boat setting off on an epic voyage? Together, we can find the magic buried in the bottom of every box, and hidden inside the world around us! Recommended for ages 2-5.
The Mortification of Fovea Munson
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $20
Mary Winn Heider brings her uproarious book to musical life in this world premiere Kennedy Center commission. Fovea Munson is stuck working at her parents’ cadaver lab, but she is by no means Dr. Frankenstein’s snuffling assistant, Igor! That is, until three disembodied heads start talking. To her. Out loud. And they need a favor. March 18 at 11am is a sensory-friendly performance. Recommended for ages 10+.
Into the Woods
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $35-159 (look for discount)
Here’s a reason to be happy ever after… Into the Woods just opened at the Kennedy Center, and this production is recommended for ages 4 and up. Bring the whole family for a show that got rave reviews on Broadway! And FYI: $35 Rush tickets will be available for every performance beginning each performance day at 5pm at the Kennedy Center Box Office, except matinee performances when Rush tickets will go on-sale at 12pm. Tickets are subject to availability and have no guaranteed location. Two tickets max per person.
Jagged Little Pill
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: Through March 26
Tickets: $55-105
Joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE — everything we’ve been waiting to see in a Broadway show — is here in the exhilarating, fearless new musical based on Alanis Morissette’s world-changing music. Recommended for ages 14+.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Where: The Madeira School | McLean, VA
When: Saturday, 1pm & 5pm
Tickets: $22-25
Take an adventure with Alice as she falls down the rabbit hole and embarks on a colorful and whimsical journey through Wonderland. Presented by Festival Ballet Virginia, this ballet is appropriate for audience members of all ages — runtime is approximately 1 hour with no intermission. Lap-sitters under age 2 may attend for free. Concessions and boutique items will be available before and after the show in the lobby.
PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through June 5
Admission: $20-25/adult, $17/age 4-15, $72/family of 4
The newest exhibition at ARTECHOUSE is a delightful and mesmerizing celebration of spring! Features vivid projections of flowers and the flitting insects on the walls and floors of the main gallery room, you can sit on a bench (or right on the floor) and immerse in the dazzling scenery. Or roam around and play — interactive elements, including beautiful displays that swirl, grow, even chime with your movement are in other areas. There are also neat augmented reality ops. Both kids and adults will be enchanted. Get more of a glimpse of it here.
Weekend Workshops
Where: National Portrait Gallery | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Drop in at the National Portrait Gallery to do some art making! All ages are welcome to get creative at Weekend Workshops. Learn about artists and changemakers, then create art inspired by their stories. Of course, explore the whole museum while you’re there. See more about the National Portrait Gallery here.
Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks throughout Fairfax County, VA
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. Discover the forest “underworld” at Lake Accotink Park. Have some wildlife encounters at Hidden Pond Nature Center. Check out animal poop at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Join a free Spring Equinox Celebration at Turner Farm Park Observatory. Details and registration for these plus more activities this weekend and beyond are available here.
Celebrate Women’s History Where: Around DC When: Throughout the weekend Admission: Varies by activity
March is Women’s History Month, and there are so many great ways to celebrate it around DC, with something for all ages. See some exhibits, tour local landmarks, enjoy live entertainment, attend a festival… all of it showcasing women and their accomplishments. This post has details on where you can do that over the next month — and beyond!
Wizards vs Kings
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 8pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary (check for discount)
The Wizards are playing at home on Saturday evening — watch them work some on-court magic against the Sacramento Kings. Get there early to get in on the Caron Butler bobblehead giveaway for the first 10,000 fans. And plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Hill Country BBQ.
St. Patrick’s Family Festival
Where: Shipgarten | Tysons, VA
When: Sunday, 1-6pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a little late at this family festival hosted by Merida, Darth Vader, & Princess Tiana. There will be lots of fun for kids — they can look for a pot ofgold to win prizes, go on a scavenger hunt, do crafts and make Irish art, and have a four leaf clover painted on their faces.Merida will perform a bow demonstration for the kids, and they can even release a suction cup, ended arrow into the sky. The venue is also dog friendly with a fenced in dog park, so bring pups along, too!
We’re about to hit one of the best times of the year in DC: Cherry Blossom Season! Not only is the city at its prettiest when the famous flowers are in bloom, there are also loads of special events and activities to celebrate it. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, running March 18 – April 16 this year, presents all kinds of fun and enriching opportunities over several weeks, plus there are some blossom-inspired happenings that aren’t part of the official festivities. Here are the best of them for families to help plan for a peak experience. Happy Blossom Season!
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Late March
Admission: Free
Viewing the cherry blossoms may just be the top thing to do during the season — and lots of people agree. The scenery really can’t get more iconic DC than the flowering trees around the Tidal Basin at their peak pink and white brilliance with our grand memorials in the background. However, viewing the famous blooms can be a bit challenging without being aware of a few things, so be sure to check out these KFDC tips before you go to see them. And view scenes from blooms past here, here and here.
PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Through June 5
Admission: $20-25/adult, $17/age 4-15, $72/family of 4
The exhibits at ARTECHOUSE often reflect the season in some way, and for the sixth year, they are highlighting spring by celebrating the cherry blossoms with a gorgeous digital exhibit that immerses you in blooms and butterflies. Floor to ceiling projections, plus interactive elements make this one beautiful, engaging, and delightful to experience! Get more of a glimpse of it here.
Help a Wishing Tree Grow
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: March 20 – April 16
Admission: Free, but passes required
During the cherry blossom season, Planet Word invites guests to help build a Wishing Tree. They can select a poem from a collection of poetry, write it on a slip of paper, and place it inside an origami paper petal ‘pocket’ that is adhered to the branches of the museum’s cherry blossom tree. At the end of the festival, the petals will be passed on to visitors in the museum as a symbol of friendship. Note that (free) passes are required for admission to the museum. Read more about Planet Word in this KFDC post.
Petal Porches
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Through April 16
Admission: Free
This newer tradition invites residents in DC and surrounding communities in MD and VA to decorate their front yards, porches, and windows to show their cherry blossom spirit during the Festival’s run. A digital map with the locations of all registered Petal Porches will be made available, so we can all get in on the fun and do some Petal Porch viewing!
A past petal “porch” on Capitol Hill
Art in Bloom
Where: Around DC
When: Through April 16
Admission: Free
View blossom inspired art all around the city! The Giant Cherry Blossom sculptures scattered in all eight wards last year will be back in permanent locations. Find a map of them here and make it a mission to see all of them during the season!
Cherry Blossom Programming for Children
Where: National Children’s Museum | Downtown DC
When: Select dates in March (see below)
Admission: $15
This spring, curiosity is in full bloom at National Children’s Museum. In celebration of the season and peak bloom, families can join the museum for the some STEAM programs inspired by the natural world. March 23 & 30: Blossom-themed STEAM Story Times. March 24: Baby Jam. March 26: Helicopter seeds launcher design and build challenge using recycled materials to learn about the aerodynamics of seed dispersal under the Museum’s main entrance awnings (free) + Haiku exploration and experimentation pop-up (included in Museum admission). Read more about the museum in this KFDC post.
Cultural Performances
Where: Tidal Basin Welcome Area
When: Select dates during peak bloom
Admission: Free
Catch live entertainment as you take in views of the blossoms! During the cherry blossom peak, there will be music and dance performances on a special stage set up at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area at a new location on West Basin Drive SW (between the Martin Luther King, Jr., and Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorials and near the Japanese Pagoda). The National Park Service will offer Ranger talks, Bloomin’ Junior Ranger activities, and more. The daily live performances on the ANA stage presented by All Nippon Airways will take place 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. and showcase a cross-cultural mix of American, Japanese and other performing arts celebrating 110 years since the gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC. A full list of performers and performance schedules can be viewed here.
Cherry Blossom Family Celebration
Where: American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 25, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free Join SAAM for their annual celebration of spring and the blooming trees of DC. Enjoy taiko drumming and traditional Japanese dance performances, and break out your best Japanese pop dance moves with Les the DJ. Craft your own cherry blossom trees to take home, make a kinobori kite to fly at the kite festival, or try your hand at an origami Sakura. And ascavenger hunt will add some extra fun to explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt and enjoy festive. Register in advance. See more about the museum in this KFDC post. Read more about the museum in this KFDC post.
Wizards Cherry Blossom Night
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 24, 7pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Whoop it up at a special cherry blossom-themed basketball game! See the Wizards take on the Spurs as part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Purchase tickets through this link to get a cherry blossom bucket hat.
Go with the Flow
Where: Local waterways
When: Starting mid-March
Admission: Rates vary
Get a new perspective of the blossoms and enjoy some outdoor recreation on a paddling excursion. Several boathouses will open during cherry blossom season, offering canoe, kayak, and other rentals to take you out on the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers and Tidal Basin, where you can see the blooming cherry trees from the water. This KFDC post has more information on where to go with the flow around DC.
Go fly a kite on the National Mall!
Blossom Kite Festival
Where: Washington Monument Grounds | National Mall, DC
When: March 26, 10am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
The annual Blossom Kite Festival, a favorite for many during the blossom season, will be back! And the sight of thousands of kites in all colors, shapes, and sizes soaring around the Washington Monument truly is 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 plan to BYO. 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. Note the date change from March 25 to March 26!
First Saturday
Where: National Gallery of Art | NationalMall, DC
When: April 1
Admission:
The NGA’s monthly series has a cherry blossom theme this time. In this installment, join the museum for kid’s films, create a floral collage, and make a custom-designed cherry blossom screenprint with local printmakers Soul and Ink. Then, enjoy pop-up musical performances and venture over to the Sculpture Garden for a tour of outdoor art installations.
Bloomaroo
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: April 1, 2-9pm
Admission: Free
Join The Wharf for Bloomaroo, a free spring extravaganza featuring a full day of cherry-blossom themed art, music, fireworks, and family-friendly fun along the waterfront! Enjoy beer gardens on District pier, s’mores at the firepit, and live music. It’ll all be capped it all off with a blossom fireworks finale.
Pink in the Pool
Where: Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness | Arlington, VA
When: April 1, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate cherry blossom season at National Landing with morning activities for families. Starting with Pink in the Pool, jump into a splash of pink at the Long Bridge Park Aquatics and Fitness Center. Families are invited to take a free swim and toss around pink beach balls. After a dip in the pool, continue the fun with kite and origami making, face painting, giveaways, sweet treats from Kona Ice, and tons of pink. Free pool passes are required — reserve them here.
Into the Woods
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park | Centreville, VA
When: April 2 | 1pm, 1:30pm, & 2pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival with this free event at Frying Pan Farm Park. Trek on their nature trail to experience the changes of spring. Along the way, visit stations that are peppered throughout the trail to build a fairy house, discuss woodland creatures, and search for critters in the soil and water. Plan to enjoy Japanese teas at the historic Frying Pan Meeting House, too! Recommended for ages 5+.
Art Blooms at Mosaic
Where: Mosaic District | McLean, VA
When: April 1-2, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Welcome spring at the Mosaic District with a celebratory weekend featuring fun for all ages. Shop at the market, catch live entertainment and art exhibits, do some kids activities, sip on a cocktail while you stroll, and more!
Japanese Culture Day
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: April 1, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
The Library of Congress is hosting a day of fun especially for kids to celebrate cherry blossom season. All ages can learn about Japanese culture through reading, writing, and craft-making with Japanese cultural and linguistic professionals. Books related to Japan and Japanese culture will also be on display.Other activities include Kamishibai (Japanese storytelling), hands-on origami lessons, Japanese calligraphy, decorative Koinobori and Japanese woodblock print coloring, tiara making with cherry blossom princesses, Kimono trial, and more.Register here! And read more about the Library of Congress in his KFDC post.
Sakura Sunday
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Run, MD
When: April 2, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
Join National Harbor for their annual Sakura Sunday Festival. The celebration will feature cultural activities, including a Japanese market, art, music and dance performances, culinary delights, and much more! Read more about all there is to do at National Harbor here.
Petalpalooza
Where: The Yards | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: April 8, 1-9pm
Admission: Free
Join the Capitol Riverfront community for Petalpalooza! This day-long signature event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival will be a blast, with live music, art installations, a beer garden, and lots of family-friendly activities. Go for awhile or just stop by for a bit. The evening will cap off with a fireworks show over the Anacostia River.
Racing Presidents sightings at the Cherry Blossom Parade
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue, 7th – 17th St NW | Downtown DC
When: April 15, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
The pinnacle of cherry blossom festivities just might be the parade. Thousands of people line Constitution Avenue to watch the procession of lavish floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and a variety of performers roll through the city. Tickets for grandstand seats are available for $25-40, but you can stake out a spot along the curb for free. Plan to arrive early to get a good view — the crowds come out for this one, especially if it’s a pretty spring day.
Sakura Matsuri
Where: Pennsylvania Ave, 3rd-7th St NW | Downtown DC
When: April 15-16, 10:30am – 6pm
Admission: $10-15/ages 13+, $50/family package, free/12 & under
Following the Cherry Blossom parade, head over to Sakura Matsuri, the Japanese Street Festival that is America’s largest exhibition of Japanese culture. The 61st annual event will feature live music and dance performances, all kinds of Asian and Western foods, martial arts demos, Japanese art, and more. And once again, it will be held over two days! PS: Note that the family package for $50 includes 2 one-day entry tickets (kids 12 & under are free), 2 kids T-shirts , 2 Omen masks for kids, and 2 Japanese Snacks .
Which events are you looking forward to this cherry blossom season?
