Tag Archives: October 2022

October 27, 2022 · 6:55 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: October 28-30

 

Happy Halloweekend!

Bookmark-able posts for this weekend and beyond:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* The Great Indoors
* Autumn Off the Farm
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Bike Rides
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Peaceful Places
* Baltimore with Kids

Wicked Fun!
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Celebrate Halloween all weekend long leading up to the big day! A scary amount of events and activities that embrace the spooky spirit are happening over the next few days. A bunch are detailed in this round-up, and this post has info on even more where you can find all the tricks and treats.

Hill-O-Ween
Where: Eastern Market | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday, 5:30-7:30pm
Admission: Free
Capitol Hill’s annual neighborhood event is legendary for little ones!  The block of 7th Street SE next to Eastern Market is closed to traffic for one of the best community Halloween celebrations in the city. Enjoy live pumpkin carving, a DJ spinning tunes for a spooky dance party, face painting, photo booths, and more Halloween themed fun. The best part is seeing the masses of jubilant kids in all kinds of costumes indulging in the extravaganza.

Mystery Mansion & Bonfire Bash
Where: Woman’s Club of Chevy Chase | Chevy Chase, MD
When: Friday, 6-9pm
Admission: $10-20
This Halloween experience for the entire family has a few offerings — a Haunted House, Bonfire Bash, and Crypt. The Bonfire Bash will feature music, food sales, outdoor Halloween movies, and fire pits. The Mystery Mansion is a “haunted house” tour for ages 5 and up.
And the Crypt offers added thrills and chills best for ages 10 and up. All of it includes a $3 food credit. The Women’s Club of Chevy Chase is locate at 7931 Connecticut Ave.

Halloween Scenes
Where: Around Capitol Hill, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
One of my favorite things about Halloween on Capitol Hill is the many houses decked out in decor for the holiday. And strolling (or biking or scooting) around to see them makes for a wicked fun family activity.  The Hill is Home makes that easier with their 2022 Spooky Hill Map.  Even if you don’t live here, it’s worth coming to the area to experience, especially since you can make a longer day of it and plan for a visit to the Library of Congress or the U.S. Capitol, some browsing at Eastern Market, or play time at one of the many parks or playgrounds.

Ichabod: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Where: Creative Cauldron | Falls Church, VA
When: Fri & Sat, 7:30pm, Sun, 2pm & 7pm
Tickets: $20-45
It’s the final performances for the show that’s perfect for this weekend…  Journey back in time to a quiet glen called Sleepy Hollow, where the denizens of the town are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their new school master, Ichabod Crane. An adaptation of Washington Irving’s Classic tale of lore, love and the legendary Headless Horseman, this World Premier Musical by the critically acclaimed creative team Conner and Smith arrives just in time for autumn leaves, pumpkins, and ghost tales around the campfire.

Air & Scare 
Where: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
The annual Air & Scare event at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is back with loads of activities! Enjoy spooky discoveries along with science fun, like an obstacle course through space, a toddler puppet show, story time ad photo ops with Star Wars characters, a Halloween scavenger hunt through the collection, opportunities to create.   Dress in costume , and note that tickets for outside activities are sold out — but there’s plenty to enjoy indoors!

Pumpkins in the Park
Where: Canal Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
The middle block of Canal Park will be transformed into the neighborhood’s very own pumpkin patch! Enjoy all kinds of seasonal festivities — pumpkin decorating (while supplies last), a giant moon bounce, festive photo booth, live music, magic show, and seasonal beverages (for 21+). All ages are invited to join. Pumpkins will be available on a first come, first served basis throughout the event, so go early to get yours.

Women’s Championship Soccer!
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 8pm (Fan Fest 5:30pm)
Admission: Tickets start at $30
The KC Current face the Portland Thorns in the National Women’s Soccer League championship match at Audi Field on Saturday evening.  It’s a big deal because 1) It’s a big match!  2) It’s the first time the NWSL final game is being played in the evening, getting the prime time broadcast coverage the women athletes deserve.  There will also be a pre-game Fan Fest starting at 5:30pm with autograph sessions, face painting, skills competitions, food, and more fun. Purchase tickets here.

Watch the Wizards
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, 7:30pm
Admission: Tickets start at $16
Catch some hoops actions on Friday night, as the Wizards host the Indian Pacers at home. 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, Shake Shack, and Oyamel.

Adams Morgan Apple Festival
Where: Unity Park | Adams Morgan, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: Free
The 9th Annual Adams Morgan Apple Pie Baking Contest and the 14th Annual Licking Creek Bend Farm Heirloom Apple Tasting returns to Adams Morgan on Saturday! Event highlights include an apple tasting and a homemade apple pie baking contest from restaurants and residents in the neighborhood. Area bakers compete for the title of Best Apple Pie, and attendees can purchase pie slices for $5 each to support Miriam’s Kitchen.

Victura Park Fall Fest
Where: The REACH | Kennedy Center, DC
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
our annual Fall Festival! From 12pm – 4pm, we have an afternoon of fun planned with face painters, games, s’mores, chili, hot cider and more. Free admission. No reservations or tickets required. Bring the family (including the fluffy ones) and come by!

S.P.I.E.S. 2: Flight of the Hawk
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday through November 20
Tickets: $25
Join S.P.I.E.S. in person, where it is more interactive than ever! This follow-up to the online hit S.P.I.E.S. & the Lost Treasure of Atlantis combines live theatre and taped adventure scenes to create a collaborative and exciting experience where each audience gets to be the hero and solve the puzzles–and no two performances are alike. Recommended for ages 5-11.

Finding Rhythm: Go-Go Music
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Saturday, 11am & 1:30pm
Tickets: $20
Take a journey through the musical brain with Mother Dance, Father Rhythm, and the Curious Scientist! D.C.’s own Go-go music and brain science come together for this lively show that’ll have kids singing and dancing to the beat. Learn the origins of human rhythm, how rhythm grows the brain, and where children find the source of their own power AND connection. Music neuroscientist and show creator Dr. Jessica Phillips-Silver draws together a team of master musicians and teaching artists to tell this powerful, unifying story. Recommended for ages 5+.

More Live Entertainment
Where: Theatres around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Witch Wartsmith’s Halloween Spooktacular at The Puppet Co.
* Tiny Tots at The Puppet Co. (littlest ones)
* Dracula at Synetic Theater (teens & older)
* Once on this Island at Source Theatre (age 10+)
* The Ballad of Emmet Till at the Atlas Performing Arts Center  (teens & older)
* Dance Nation at Olney Theatre (Rated R)

All the Fall Fests
Where: Around the DC region
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Fall festivals are in full swing at locales all around the area to celebrate the season From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities GALORE to help folks embrace the autumn spirit.

Autumn off the Farm
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Farm festivals may be the go-to autumn outing, but there are lots of other fantastic ways to enjoy the season around the area. This KFDC post lists 10 great places to check out for fall adventures.

Halloween Party & Storytime
Where: Commonwealth Baptist Church | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 10:30-11:30am
Admission: $5/child, free for adults
JoinArts on the Horizon for a fun and festive Halloween party and interactive storytime! Explore the wonders of the fall season and all things Halloween using music and creative movement to experience new and exciting stories. After the storytime, stick around to create some fun Halloween and fall themed crafts. Wear your Halloween costumes (adults, too!) and get ready to move and groove with stories, music, and movement. Commonwealth Baptist Church is located at 700 Commonwealth Ave. in Alexandria. Register in advance!

Lil’ Pumpkins Festival
Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts | Gaithersburg, MD
When: Saturday, 2-6pm
Admission:
The 3rd Annual Lil’ Pumpkin Fest at BlackRock Center for the Arts offers the Upcounty community a fun, free, and safe way to enjoy all the Fall and spooky festivities. Activities include trick-or-treating, photo booth, lil’ pumpkin painting, free pumpkins for children under the age of 11, beer garden, and a costume parade. Later that evening, adults can enjoy a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with live cast on the MainStage at 6pm & 9pm.

Halloween on the Farm
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park | Clifton, VA
When: Saturday, 5-8pm
Admission: $10
Trick or treat on the farm! Visit with farm animals, create crafts, play games, tour the decorated farmhouse, and enjoy the fall on the farm. The program runs in three one-hour time slots. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advance!

Día de los Muertos Family Day
Where: American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Smithsonian American Art Museum in celebrating Día de los Muertos! Bring the whole family to see exciting live performances from Ballet Folklorico Mi Herencia Mexicana, Mariachi Aguila DC, and Sol y Rumba. Enjoy face painting and our featured Día de los Muertos-themed crafts for all ages. If you are unable to make it in person or want to continue the celebration online, visit our Family Zone for more crafts, coloring pages, and performance videos.

PJ Party
Where: Past Tense Yoga | Mount Pleasant, DC
When: Saturday, 5pm
Admission: $40
Ready for a night out? Pat Tense is throwing a pajama party for your kids (5 and up). Drop them off at 5pm with dinner in hand, and they’ll eat, play games, watch a movie, and even do some yoga. Pick ‘em up at 8pm – or they might turn into pumpkins.

Autumn Bonsai Exhibit: The Colors of Nature
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
The little trees in the bonsai exhibit at the National Arboretum change with the seasons, too!  Ripe fruit and fall foliage hang from the miniature branches of bonsai and penjing before falling away to reveal their bare winter silhouettes. See selections of red maples, golden ginkgo, and fruited trees from the museum’s permanent collections.  Of course, plan to tour the rest of the Arboretum, which is brilliant with fall color right now.

Halloween at the Harbor
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Sunday, 12:30-3pm
Admission: Free
National Harbor is hosting an afternoon full of spooktacular fun for the whole family, including Trick-or-Treating at select restaurants and retailers, a Halloween Movie, a Chef Pumpkin Carving Contest, and a Pet Pawrade. Visit the website for the full schedule of the day’s events.

Pumpin Rock ‘n Roll
Where: Warner Circle Park | Kensington, MD
When: Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
The Pumpkin Rock ‘n Roll is back!  Warner Circle Park in Kensington will be transformed into a full-blown Halloween extravaganza.  Enjoy lots of family-friendly attractions, including live musical performances, pumpkin derby race, food trucks, and a hay maze.

Family Day Piano Show
Where: Bobby McKey’s | National Harbor, MD
When: Sunday, 3:30-6pm
Admission: $27.50-32.50
Tack this on to your Halloween fun at National Harbor!  It’s a Family Show at Bobby McKey’s on Halloween weekend, so it’s likely to celebrate the spooky season, too (ie, go ahead and dress up!) Enjoy two hours of all request live piano music, plus food and drinks, and of course encouragement of singing along and wiggling in your seats! Bar is open for non-driving parents.

The Ins & Outs of DC
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
Want even more options for fun things to do with the kids around the area? If you’re looking for activities outdoors or inside, depending on the weather or simply your preference, these posts are loaded with ideas for ongoing pursuits:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* A new museum is opening in DC on Saturday!  Read more about the Rubell Museum DC.
* If you’re looking for fun with little ones on Friday, there are a couple of festivals going on in the morning into the afternoon.
* Don’t forget to enter the lottery for tickets to the National Christmas Tree Lighting on November 30!
*  Speaking of holiday events, tickets for Step Afrika’s Holiday Step Show are now on sale. (It’s so good!)
* One of DC’s all-time best moments happened three years ago Sunday! (I still get chills watching it.)
* 11 of the scariest places to travel.
* My mom just sent me this cookbook, and I can’t wait to try some of the recipes!
* I’ve been loving this light, heartwarming TV series, and enjoyed this love story binge.
* Also so excited for this new season to begin on Sunday!
* Halloween costumes for couples… who are going through something. 😉

 

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October 25, 2022 · 9:13 am

Five Things: October 25, 2022

The National Tree from a Christmas past.

 

1. The lottery for tickets to the 100th National Christmas Tree Lighting opens today!  Starting at 10am through November 1 at 10am, you can submit your entry for a chance to win tickets. This year’s National Christmas Tree Lighting will take place on November 30 at 5pm.  And in case you’re unfamiliar with this DC holiday tradition, here’s the scoop: Every year, the National Christmas Tree is illuminated at President’s Park on the Ellipse in a big ceremony  presented by the National Park Service and National Park Foundation. The President of the United States delivers a message of peace, big-name entertainers perform, and the whole event is televised (and webcast) for the world to witness. And every year, tickets to the ceremony are issued to the public via an online lottery. To enter the lottery, go to Recreation.gov, scroll down, and click Lotteries.  Be sure to apply for enough tickets, as every attendee, including children, must have one. You’ll find out whether or not you are successful in scoring tickets on  November 8.

 

2. A couple of fun, FREE ways to entertain kiddos this Friday, October 28…

* Join the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center for a Fall Festival on Wilson Plaza from 10am – 1pm. Activities will include a hay bale maze, face painting, a petting zoo, balloon twisting, a “Baby Jam” music class with the National Children’s Museum, strolling characters, and more.

* Go to the USDA Farmers Market for their annual Harvest Festival, an event celebrating the end of the market season.  Along with the weekly offerings, there will be exhibitors, charities, and family-friendly activities, including a face painter, petting zoo, pumpkin picking and decorating, trick-or-treating, and pumpkin themed recipe demonstrations at the VegU tent.  Enjoy it all from 9am – 2pm.

 

3.  With Halloween happening next Monday, this coming weekend (and even this week) is jam-packed with events that celebrate it.  Get a jump start on planning for it with the round-up of wicked fun ways to celebrate.

 

4. The Washington Post recently published an enlightening article about kids clothing waste and how to cut down on it.

 

5. “Ye’s recent comments and actions have been unacceptable, hateful and dangerous…” 👏👏👏

 

 

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October 21, 2022 · 8:36 am

The Weekend Round-Up: October 21-23

Planet Word’s magical library

 

Happy Weekend!

Go-to posts full of ideas for local recreation:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* The Great Indoors
* Autumn Off the Farm
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Bike Rides
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Peaceful Places
* Baltimore with Kids

Art Safari
Where: Torpedo Factory | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
The Torpedo Factory’s annual Art Safari is back! The Alexandria tradition for more than a quarter-century offers a day of fun art adventures for kids and families. Dozens of resident artists will lead budding art enthusiasts through exciting and creative projects on all three floors of the Art Center. Guests can learn about printmaking and the pottery wheel through demonstrations, paint at an easel with brushes, create collages, experiment with clay, get faces painted and temporary tattoos, even learn about the historic Alexandria waterfront. Register here for the day creative fun!

Bat Week Celebration with MISTER G!
Where: Natural History Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
The Natural History Museum is celebrating Bat Week with special activities, including a concert by Latin Grammy Award-winning musician MISTER G! Starting at 10am, spend the morning celebrating bats and making observations of bats with interactive activities, then at 11am enjoy the show. Families can join at any time during the duration of the event and stay as long as they want. Feel free to wear your favorite bat attire!

Community Day
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: SUNDAY, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Planet Word is turning two, and they’re hosting a special day full of the joy and wonder of words and language to celebrate! There will be crosswords and crafts, blind dates with books on the Rooftop Terrace, and behind-the-scenes tours of the historic Franklin School building that houses the museum. You can also check out the engineering of the giant LED globe, and take home a personalized haiku. If tickets are sold out, you might have luck getting walk-up tickets — a limited number will be available. Read more about this extraordinary museum in this KFDC post.

Halloween Family Day
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Head to the Library of Congress for a very exciting, non-spooky Halloween event! Enjoy a day family-friendly activities, including a very special program at 2pm with beloved authors R.L. Stine, author of the “Goosebumps” series, and Mary Pope Osborne, author of the “Magic Tree House” series. Free timed-entry passes are required, so be sure to reserve them in advance! There will also be “spooky” art activities, stories available in a reading corner, creepy music, and fantastical images from the Library’s collections. Halloween costumes welcome. And note that the program with Stine and Osborne will feature spooky elements, including eerie lights, frightening characters, and surprises for the audience. The event will be livestreamed on the Library’s YouTube page. (PS: Check out this sweet video of Owen interviewing Mary Pope Osborne at the National Book Festival when he was 6!)

Peirce Mill Heritage Day
Where: Peirce Mill | Rock Creek Park, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Back for the first time since pre-Covid, Peirce Mill’s annual Heritage Day celebrates the historic Rock Creek site with a day of free festivities. See a blacksmithing demonstration, and enjoy a visit from Dr. Stonestreet, who will show how milling injuries were treated in the 19th century. Hands-on activities include rope making and children’s crafts. And a traditional four-piece band will add some lively music to the day. Read more about Peirce Mill in this KFDC post.

Tyler Fall Fest
Where: Tyler Elementary School | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3:30pm
Admission: Free (fee for food & some activities)
Support a local school’s PTA while having fun at Tyler Elementary’s Fall Fest! Activities will include games, art, yummy bites and treats, and a petting zoo. Tyler is located at 1001 G Street SE, and the event will take place on the school’s field.

A Fairytale of a Farm
Where: Clark’s Elioak Farm | Ellicott City, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $8
Enjoy Clark’s Elioak’s many seasonal delights, like pumpkins, cider, and Halloween fun along with all of the fantastic, permanent fun.  The sprawling grounds are adorned with installations practically straight out of a storybook (they were actually salvaged from The Enchanted Forest, an old Ellicott City amusement park). See Humpty Dumpty on the wall, peek in the Three Bears’ windows, check out Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, explore the Old Woman’s shoe. If that’s not enough, there are hayrides, cow train rides, slides, farm animals to pet, a pumpkin patch, the pine tree maze, and even more!

The Largest Fall Festival Around
Where: Cox Farm | Centreville, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/Fri, $25/Sat & Sun
This festival is enormous! So big I recommend giving the website a good look to help prepare and navigate your way around the sprawling grounds that contain multiple slides, swings, games, mazes, pumpkins, picnics, live entertainment, farm animals, and much more. Expect some lines, especially for the giant slides that take you swooping down several humps over a hillside. There is also a Kiddie Zone just for little ones aged 5 and under. Be prepared for a crowd.

Alllll the Fall Fests
Where: Around the DC Metro
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the season — fall festivals are in full swing at locales all around the area! From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities GALORE to help folks embrace the autumn spirit. galore that let you relish in the fun autumn brings. This post has details on where all the fall funn is happening.

Halloween in the Garden
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Solomons, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $5
Dress the whole family and enjoy a day of trick-or-treating, art activities, and more!  Over 50 local businesses and organizations will be handing out treats for the kids, plus there will be fun and games, a DJ dance party, food trucks, and lots of other festivities.  Read more about Annmarie here and here.

Spooky Science
Where: Maryland Science Center | Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: $26.95/adult, $20.95/ages 3-12
Take your Halloween costume out for a trial run and visit the Maryland Science Center, if you dare, for an afternoon filled with spooktacular science fun! Experiment with ghoulishly glowing lights. Creatively cast a spine-tingling shadow. Use leverage and elasticity to launch creepy catapults, and more!  Read all about the Maryland Science Center in this KFDC post. And plan for even more Charm City fun with this guide to exploring Baltimore with kids.

Halloween Pumpkin Carving Bash
Where: Potomac Overlook Park | Arlington, VA
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: $20
Get in the Halloween spirit by carving or painting a pumpkin with your friends at Potomac Overlook! We’ll provide tools, paint and of course a pumpkin for some holiday fun. You’ll also enjoy some candy, a Halloween craft, and visits from several of our spooky nocturnal critters from the nature center!  See more about Potomac Overlook Park here.

More Halloween Fun
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
This time of year is always a scream around the area, with loads of ways to get the Halloween party started before the actual day. From mini train rides through the woods to haunted tours to festivals inspired by the holiday, details on where the tricks and treats are happening can be found in this annual post.

Maryland STEM Festival: Navigating the Night Sky
Where: College Park Aviation Museum | College Park, MD
When: Saturday, 6-8pm
Admission: Free
Soar into the stratosphere at the College Park Aviation Museum’s evening program, Navigating the Night Sky! Participants will have the opportunity to do each activity from Space Week — Outer Space Activity, Space Slime, and Starry Night Geoboards. Once the sun goes down, the night culminates in a special night sky observation activity.

In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday, 1:30pm & 4pm
Tickets: $25-39
Saturday is the last to chance to see this show at Imagination Satge.. Adapted from the award-winning novel, this play tells the touching story of a young Chinese American girl and her family moving from China to the United States in 1947. Using humor and a rich multimedia staging, the play celebrates the bravery and sacrifice of those who bring new perspectives to our country. Recommended for ages 7+.

Disney Junior Live on Tour: Costume Palooza
Where: Warner Theatre | Downtown De
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $36-59 (look for discount)
This show brings beloved Disney Junior characters and favorite Marvel Super Heroes live on stage for a jam-packed, concert-style show with singing, dancing, acrobatics, and more. It will feature favorite songs from hit Disney Junior series, as well as new original music. Mickey, Minnie, and their pals are getting ready to throw a huge costume party but mysterious green weather keeps interrupting the fun. Can Spidey and his Amazing Friends help save the Costume Palooza? Come join the party! Find ticket links here.

Ichabod: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Where: Creative Cauldron | Falls Church, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Tickets: $20-45
See a show to get  you in the spooky spirit… Journey back in time to a quiet glen called Sleepy Hollow, where the denizens of the town are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their new school master, Ichabod Crane. An adaptation of Washington Irving’s Classic tale of lore, love and the legendary Headless Horseman, this World Premier Musical by the critically acclaimed creative team Conner and Smith arrives just in time for autumn leaves, pumpkins, and ghost tales around the campfire. Recommended for ages 8+.

More Live Entertainment
Where: Theatres around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Witch Wartsmith’s Halloween Spooktacular at The Puppet Co.
* Tiny Tots at The Puppet Co. (littlest ones)
* Dracula at Synetic Theater (teens & older)
* Once on this Island at Source Theatre (age 10+)
* TINA – The Tina Turner Musical at National Theatre (age 14+)
* The Ballad of Emmet Till at the Atlas Performing Arts Center  (teens & older)
* Dance Nation at Olney Theatre (Rated R)

Takoma Park Street Festival
Where: Carroll Ave. to Carroll St. | Takoma Park, MD
When: Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Rescheduled from earlier this month… The streets of Takoma Park will be filled with music, artisans, community groups, kids activities, food vendors and a variety of green companies at the city’s 41st annual festival. Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping — over 150 vendors will be selling all kinds of artistic wares. Music lovers will enjoy three stages hosting 18 bands playing all day.

Family Funday: King Bullfrog
Where: Hook Hall | Park View, DC
When: Sunday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $5
Sundays at Hook Hall is all about FAMILY FUN! Bring the kiddos for some dancing and singing with different musical guests joining each week. King Bullfrog is kicking off the new series this Sunday. Along with the music, they’ll have coffee and frozen drinks available for purchase for parents, and crafts for the kids to enjoy. Hook Hall is located at 3400 Georgia Avenue Northwest.

Pedestrian Zone
Where: 18th btwn Kalorama & Columbia NW | Adams Morgan, DC
When: Sunday, 12-10pm
Admission: Free
Walk your way through the streets of Adams Morgan — one street, anyway! The 18th Street Pedestrian Zone is on again this Sunday, keeping the street free of vehicular traffic, so more pedestrians, bicyclists, and people on scooters have mroe safe space to walk to their favorite cafe, shop for a unique gift, bike to dinner with friends, scooter to a hair or nail appointment, or just wander the tree-lined streets of Adams Morgan and enjoy the architecture. Take the fam down for a stroll, have lunch or dinner, stop for ice cream, and hit an area playground!

Día de los Muertos
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the Day of the Dead at The Wharf. They’re bringing live music, street food, a beer garden, face painting, sugar skull decorating, and more to District Pier in partnership. Dress for the day — they’re giving out prizes for most authentic outfit!

YogArt: Spooky Silhouettes
Where: Past Tense Yoga | Mount Pleasant, DC
When: Sunday, 3pm
Admission: $35
Kids 5 and up can express their creativity though art and movement! In this Halloween-themed class, join Patrycja Dzierzanowska on a mindful journey into the world of shadows. Little ones will get to create and cast their very own silhouettes, then turn them into dancing skeletons and have a party! Admission includes all supplies.

Leaf Peep on the Trail
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Take in the brilliant color spectrum of autumn and get a little exercise, to boot, on a family hike. From right here in the city to country locales, you’ve got your pick of places where you can enjoy the fall foliage and some time outdoors. This post about good area hikes has info about a bunch of them, but some recs for right now: The National Arboretum in Northeast DC, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve in McLean, Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria, Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park in Montgomery County, and  Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis.

Family Bike Ride
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Family bike rides are an excellent activity for right now. You can enjoy the  fall weather and foliage and get some exercise, to boot. The DC area has plenty of good routes to ride, with something for every age and rider level. This post has a bunch of pedal-worthy recommendations, and this ride is a perfect one for the whole crew.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Plan ahead for FREE Halloween fun at National Harbor!
* There’s a brand new post about The Alamo Drafthouse where you can enjoy “table” service dinner (or lunch) and a movie.
* This new kids’ Urban Adventure Kit produced by the Anacostia Community Museum with Jose Andrés would make for a great holiday gift. Described as “part-scavenger hunt/ part-podcast/part-food crawl,” the experience aims to connect kids with unique places in DC through the eyes of Andrés.
* Washingtonian has a round-up of local historical ghost tours.
* Fall-ready recipes for the whole family.
* I included these workout tights in my Prime Early Access sale picks and am happy to report they are pretty great, especially for under $20!
* Next I want to try one of these cashmere sweaters — can’t beat the prices.
* For all the Elena Ferrante fans. 🙂
* This made me LOL.😻

 

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October 17, 2022 · 5:46 pm

Five Things: October 17, 2022

 

1. One of my favorite things about Halloween in our neighborhood, Capitol Hill, is the many houses decked out in decor for the holiday. And strolling (or biking or scooting) around to see them makes for a wicked fun family activity.  The Hill is Home makes that easier with their 2022 Spooky Hill Map.  Even if you don’t live here, it’s worth coming to the area to experience, especially since you can make a longer day of it and plan for a visit to the Library of Congress or the U.S. Capitol, some browsing at Eastern Market, or play time at one of the many parks or playgrounds.

 

2. A great time to plan for a day on the Hill would be this Saturday, October 22, when the Library of Congress is hosting a Halloween Family Day.  From 10am – 4pm, guests can enjoy family-friendly festivities, including a very special program with beloved authors R.L. Stine, author of the “Goosebumps” series, and Mary Pope Osborne, author of the “Magic Tree House” series! There will also be“spooky” art activities, stories available in a reading corner, creepy music, and fantastical images from the Library’s collections. Halloween costumes welcome. And note that the program with Stine and Osborne will feature spooky elements, including eerie lights, frightening characters, and surprises for the audience. The Family Day runs from 10am – 4:30pm, but note that the program with the authors is at 2pm. Free timed-entry passes are required, so be sure to reserve them in advance — a lot are already hone, and I can guarantee they’ll go fast once word gets out more.  (PS: Check out this sweet video of Owen interviewing Mary Pope Osborne at the National Book Festival when he was 6! I shared it back then here.)

 

3. Also, speaking of wicked fun… the smash Broadway hit, Wicked, is coming to the Kennedy Center from December 8 to January 22! And right now you can find discounts on select seats through Goldstar.

 

4. Have you heard about Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience coming to the area in a couple of weeks?  The outdoor light trail will immerse guests of all ages into the magical wizarding world from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series. Throughout the journey, guests will experience their favorite moments from the Forbidden Forest, encounter mystical creatures such as Hippogriffs, centaurs, unicorns, and Nifflers, and even have the opportunity to cast their own spells.  The adventure will take place at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia from October 29 – January 29.  Ticket prices start from $25 for children and $36 for adults.  It’s selling out quickly — there are some remaining dates/times for November and December, but still plenty for January.  This has holiday gift written all over it!

 

5. Have you been yet? 😉

 

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October 14, 2022 · 9:18 am

The Weekend Round-Up: October 14-16

Hit the trail on two wheels on a mountain biking outing

 

Happy Weekend!

Link up to loads of activity ideas in these KFDC posts:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Autumn Off the Farm
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Peaceful Places
* Baltimore with Kids

Family Happy Hour with King Bullfrog
Where: Hill Center | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday, October 14, 5-7pm
Admission: $5/adult, $10/child
Bring the family to enjoy a Friday evening filled with live music perfect for all ages! This King Bullfrog concert will be outdoors, where little can run, dance, laugh, and play to the beat of their favorite songs.  Featuring Mr. Jeremiah and Mr. Steve — both Capitol Hill-based dads and music teachers — the duo’s roots-and-blues tunes are carefully tailored to get children dancing while delighting grownups, an approach that successfully hooks audiences young and old. Beer, wine, and cheese and pepperoni pizza will be for sale. BYO picnics are welcome, too. Update: This event has been cancelled due to a positive Covid case.

Movie Night: Ghostbusters
Where: Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Friday, 7pm
Admission: Free
Head to the President Lincoln’s summer residence for their free monthly outdoor movie series. Bring a picnic, spread out blanket on the lawn, and enjoy an evening with the family watching Ghostbusters. Register in advance to reserve your space!

Fall for Festival Season
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Pick some pumpkins, whiz down giant slides, get lost in corn mazes, go on hayrides, bounce around on jumping pillows, and so much more. There are activities galore to help you embrace the autumn spirit, and the KFDC guide to fall festivals has details on all of them.

Bike in the Woods
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Add some extra adventure to a bike ride and go mountain biking! It’s also a fun, active way to immerse in the beauty of the season.  There are several MTB trails to ride around the area, a few miles even right here in the District at Fort Dupont Park in Anacostia — a good place for newer mountain bikers. Cosca Regional Park in PG County and Schaffer Farms in Gaithersburg are also great for those just starting. And for even more recs, the post about biking around the DC area includes a list of places to hit the mountain biking trails (scroll down).  [Note: This activity is better for older kids with more experience riding.]

Kids Workshop
Where: Lowes locations around the DC Area
When: Saturday, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Lowes stores are once again offering their monthly in-person workshops for kids. This Saturday, bring in mini DIYers to you build a Fire Rescuer Kit together. You’ll leave with a hand-made toy that’s as fun to play with as it is to create. Be sure to register in advance before Saturday!

Tregaron Unplugged
Where: Tregaron Conservatory | Cleveland Park, DC
When: Saturday, 3-5:30
Admission: Free
Immerse in nature and acoustic music at this free, family-friendly event on Saturday afternoon. Artists from all music genres will be performing at four locations around the lovely grounds of Tregaron. For kids there will be rhythm and song-making activities, a show-and-tell of instruments made from natural objects, and special guest puppets. And all ages can enjoy a short yoga session. Read a little more about Tregaron Conservancy in this KFDC post about peaceful places around DC (though it won’t be so peaceful on Saturday).

College Park Day
Where: College Park Aviation Museum | College Park, MD
When: Saturday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
Join friends, neighbors, and the entire City of College Park community at the Annual College Park Day Festival. This free event is fun for the whole family with live music and bands, a whole kids zone with activities just for them, food and drinks, jugglers and mimes and other performers, and much more.

Virtual Open House
Where: Silver Oaks Cooperative School | Online on Zoom
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
Want to learn all about Silver Oaks Cooperative School? Join them for a virtual open house! Just email admissions@silveroakscooperative.org for the zoom link. After October 15, in-person tours of SOCS will be available by appointment, weekly on Tuesdays. There will be additional, virtual open houses at SOCS on November 12 and January 7. RSVP to admissions@silveroakscooperative.org to join a future virtual or in-person event and learn more about SOCS!

Fall Fest & Bulb Sale
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Saturday,
Admission: Free
There may be no more inspiring place to plan your own garden and shop for flower bulbs, both favorites and unusual varieties, than the Arb.  Friends of the National Arboretum are hosting their annual bulb sale that also has family-friendly activities, including planting and falconry demonstrations, nature-based crafts, and book giveaways. Plan for time to roam around some of the gorgeous plant collection, too. See more about the National Arboretum here.

Fall Harvest and Carnival Fun
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park | Herndon, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free, but some activities cost a fee
Bring the family to Frying Pan Farm Park for all kinds of farm fun at their annual Fall Harvest and Carnival. Watch the cider press in action, milk a cow, shell corn, peel apples, meet farm animals, play old-fashioned games, watch farm demos, and much more!

Adams Morgan PorchFest
Where: Adams Morgan, DC
When: Saturday, 2-6pm (rescheduled from Oct 1)
Admission: Free
Get the best seats in the house (or on the sidewalk) as the front porches of homes and store fronts of local businesses are transformed into intimate performance spaces to be enjoyed by anyone who happens to stroll by. Enjoy a variety of music styles from about 70 bands playing on porches, patios, and stoops in the neighborhood.  At the corner of Adams Mill and Columbia Road NW on Porchfest Day, pick up a music map and free wristband that will get you discount at over 30 Adams Morgan businesses.

Loudoun County Fall Farm Tour
Where: Farms around Loudoun County, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
The 29th annual Loudoun Fall Farm Tour showcases more than two dozen locations that offer everything from pumpkin patches to alpacas to flowers to vineyards to farmers markets. All of the locations provide an educational component for visitors as well.  Visit the website for a map of the locations and more info on each one.

Fall Hikes
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Autumn in a supreme time to get out on the trail, when you can leaf peep and enjoy some active fun with the fam. Some recs for places that are especially great right now: Dumbarton Oaks Park in Georgetown; Potomac Overlook Park in Arlington, VA; Patapsco Valley State Park near Columbia, MD; and Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA. Find even more walks in the woods here.

In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday, 4pm & Sunday, 1:30pm & 4pm
Tickets: $25-39
Adapted from the award-winning novel, this play tells the touching story of a young Chinese American girl and her family moving from China to the United States in 1947. Using humor and a rich multimedia staging, the play celebrates the bravery and sacrifice of those who bring new perspectives to our country. Recommended for ages 7+.

Dracula
Where: Synetic Theatre | Crystal City, VA
When: Through November 6
Tickets: $20-60 (look for discount)
The sensuous and terrifying thriller arrives just in time for Halloween. With blood-sucking temptresses and creeping mists sure to send a chill up your spine, Stoker’s classic 1897 tale rises again. Dracula, the legend that inspired an entire genre of literature and film, explores the universal theme of good versus evil. As a bloodthirsty vampire terrorizes the countryside, an unlikely group fights to defend their home. Director Paata Tsikurishvili’s vision comes to life in this dark and menacing piece. Recommended for teens and older.

More Live Entertainment
Where: Theatres around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Witch Wartsmith’s Halloween Spooktacular at The Puppet Co.
* Tiny Tots at The Puppet Co. (littlest ones)
* The Trip to Bountiful at Ford’s Theatre (age 13+)
* Dance Nation at Olney Theatre (Rated R)
* Once on this Island at Source Theatre
* TINA – The Tina Turner Musical at National Theatre (age 14+)
* The Ballad of Emmet Tillat the Atlas Performing Arts Center  (teens & older)
* Ichabod: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at Creative Cauldron
* Guys and Dolls at the Kennedy Center (age 9+)

Model Trains + Thomas
Where: Historic Vienna Train Station | Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free (donations accepted)
Fall is coming and it is time to go to the Historic Vienna Train Station and Museum where you can see and hear HO scale model trolleys and trains, including Thomas and some of his friends, on display and in operation. It’s a great family fun and activity for the young and young at heart. The Station is at 231 Dominion Road NE, Vienna, VA along the W&OD trail just past the Caboose.

“Eye Spy” Halloween Trains
Where: Cabin John & Wheaton Parks | Bethesda & Wheaton, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 6pm
Admission: $8/Wheaton, $6/Cabin John
For some “locomotives” you can ride on, hop on board the Halloween Trains! All ages can take a ride through “Trainslyvania” on Montgomery Parks’ Cabin John Miniature Train and the Wheaton Miniature Train. Purchase tickets in advance online to guarantee a ride, as only a limited amount are available onsite. Plan on more play at the parks — see more about Cabin John here and Wheaton here.

More Wicked Fun
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Halloween may not be for a few more weeks, but you can get the party started with activities and events that celebrate the spooky spirit. This post has details on where the tricks and treats are happening.

Baysox Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Landover, MD
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $15
Join the Bowie Baysox at Prince George’s Stadium for a Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch. Select a pumpkin from the patch on the outfield at the ballpark and enjoy more activities. Kids can ride on the carousel, jump in the bounce house, play carnival-style, and more. Halloween costumes are encouraged for all!

Jacqueline & Jason’s Block Party
Where: The REACH Plaza | Kennedy Center, DC
When: Sunday, 1pm
Admission: Free
Join a free, outdoor family event inspired by Jacqueline Woodson’s book The World Belonged to Us. Enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and fun, including a jazz performance with Jacqueline Woodson, Jason Moran and the Bandwagon; more live entertainment, double dutch demos and lessons, a roller skating demo, hopscotch and hula hoops, sidewalk chalk, fort building, and more! Advance registration is recommended., and attendees can access an $11 parking voucher for the Kennedy Center parking garage for the day of the event here.

Oktoberfest
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Sunday, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
It’s that time of year… put on your dirndl or lederhosen, grab your Dachshund, and head to The Wharf for  free Oktoberfest festivities. The highlight:  Cheer on the dogs competing in the 10th Annual Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash to benefit Rural Dog Rescue. Throughout the weekend, enjoy German fare, Bavarian decor and costumes, and Sam Adam Octoberfest beer for adults.

Turkish Festival
Where: Pennsylvania Ave, 3rd-7th St NW | Downtown DC
When:Sunday 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Turkish heritage and culture on the streets of DC!  The free event will include live music, folk dancing performances, kids games, arts & crafts, cultural events, and more. Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisines and shop Turkish ceramic bowls, carpets, and other cultural items from local vendors.

Hot Air Balloon Festival
Where: Prince William County Fairgrounds | Manassas, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 5-10pm
Admission: $20/adult, $8/child (rides are extra)
Hot air balloons are the main attraction at this annual festival, but there are more activities for all ages. A Kids Zone has games, train, bouncy fun, rock walls, and a zip line. A DJ and live music add some entertainment, while you browse booths selling crafts and more wares. Food and drinks available for purchase, too. The grand finale of it all is a Hot Air Balloon Glow & Laser show!

Have a Wild Time
Where: National Zoo | Woodley Park, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
I posted about a recent visit to the Zoo a few weeks ago, and how it’s a place you’re never too old to visit. The animal viewing is always interesting and fun — they’re all so cute! And the grounds are nice to stroll, especially this time of year when the weather is nice and the foliage is is beginning to turn.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Learn about Bright Horizons’ early education programs and enter for a chance to win a set of Magna-Tiles for your child!
* The National Children’s Chorus is holding auditions for new students ages 5-17 on October 29.
* From Eater, Kid-Friendly Restaurants Around D.C. That Adults Actually Enjoy
* How fun are these Halloween cookies?
* If you still need, Target is having a sale on Halloween costumes.
* This looks like the perfect creepy show (for adults) for the season.
* Happy Friday!

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