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The Weekend Round-Up: April 23-25

Springtime at the National Arboretum

 

Happy Weekend!

Fast links for all kinds of DC fun:
Spring Things to Get Excited About
* Local Hikes with Kids
Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* On the Water
* Bike Rides

Spring Drive-In Movie Series
Where: The Stack at Buzzard Point | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, 8pm
Admission: $20/car

Pile into the family car to catch a flick in the city! This six-week drive-in series from the Capitol Riverfront BID features movies inspired by post-pandemic goals — traveling, concerts, house parties, Met Galas, and more.  Each film session will be a fun, contact-free experience for all ages at an appropriate social distance. Even more, all funds will be donated to local charities. This weekend’s showing is Moana, and proceeds will benefit Van Ness Elementary School.

Drive-In, in NoVa
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car

You can also catch a flick from the comfort of your car in Virginia, an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Mamma Mia will be on the big outdoor screen on Friday night, and Jurassic Park on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Blooming Azaleas
Where: National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Throughout the weekend, 8am – 5pm
Admission: Free

The azalea bloom at the National Arboretum is very well known among flower enthusiasts, attracting visitors from all over every year. And for good reason: It’s absolutely gorgeous! Even more, the Arb is a great place to spend a day with the family; even when there are lots of visitors, there is plenty of space to spread out with something to enjoy in every area.  Go here for scenes from the bloom and info for checking it out. [Update: The Arb is limiting visitors for crowd control — this bloom is a popular one! — so be aware there may be a wait to get in.]

Take a Hike
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale

There’s a link above for a round-up of local hikes, but sometimes specific recs are helpful. A few places to hit the trail that will be nice this weekend: Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA (paddling ops, too!); Turkey Run Park in McLean, VA; Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Northeast DC; Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, MD (with a stop at The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after), and Patapsco Valley State Park near Baltimore, MD.

Glow With It
Where: Georgetown, DC
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free

See Georgetown sparkle with modern light art installations. This free outdoor public art experience showcases eight innovative works around the neighborhood. They are visible during the day, but obviously shine more in the evenings. Take the fam to dinner, then go for a stroll to check them all out! Get a glimpse of a past light show here.

Lincoln’s Bike Ride
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: $50
Join President Lincoln’s Cottage and the DC Cycling Concierge as they recreate Lincoln’s three-mile commute by bike from his Cottage in Petworth to the White House. The day will start with an introduction at President Lincoln’s Cottage (140 Rock Creek Church Road), followed by a guided cycling tour, retracing Lincoln’s commute. The tour will stop at places of note for bits of history and end at the White House. [Note: This sounds like a lot of riding through the city — parents are the best judges of whether their kids are up for it. Also, this will be happening again on May 1.]

Play Ball Drive-Thru
Where: Fletcher’s Field | Riverdale, MD
When: Saturday, 12-2pm
Admission: Free

Catch some Nats swag at this event from the Washington Nationals and Price George’s County Parks & Rec. To help encourage and promote youth baseball and softball participation, the Nats and Screech are giving away free plastic bats, balls, and other Nationals swag to young fans. Open to all children between the ages of 4-18, this socially-distant event will allow participants to remain in their cars and have the items passed through their car windows. Face coverings will be required. Fans should register here.  Fletcher’s Field is located at 5200 Kenilworth Ave. in Riverdale, MD.

Farm Fun
Where: Farms around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

You don’t need a holiday or big festival to enjoy fun on some area farms.  Great Country has a whole play area, farm market, and baby goats to visit. Clark’s Elioak delights with its old storybook park installations and mini rides for kids.  And check out a recent post for ways to Bring the Fun Home… from DC Area Farms!

AdMo Art Walk
Where: Adams Morgan, DC
When: Through May 14
Admission: Free

Where many of us spent our 20s partying it up, is now like an art gallery for a few weeks. Walk the streets of Adams Morgan and admire an impressive selection of artworks displayed in various storefronts on a self-guided walking tour. Go here to see the participating businesses that will be showcasing the art and plan your stroll to see it all.

Saturday Morning Live! At The National
Where: The National Theatre Facebook Page
When: Saturday, 9:30am
Admission: Free

The National Theatre is excited to present Gonzo’s Multiverse episode four: Pepe, Pedro, and The Sun. Gonzo’s Multiverse explores the very small, the very large, and everything in between! Viewers will investigate the natural world through music, poetry, art, and some surprising new friends. This programming is best suited for children ages four through ten, but siblings and friends of other ages are always welcome to join the fun!

Hang Out
Where: Hains Point | Southwest DC
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free

Sometimes it’s nice to go someplace where you can just hang out for a few hours (not to mention, this gives me a chance to highlight an old post and cool place). At Hains Point,  you can play, picnic, and enjoy the surrounding scenery where the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers converge.  At East Potomac Park, head all the way down, almost to the tip of the park, to reach the playgrounds. They’re set amid a large grassy area with picnic tables and restrooms right there, too. The spot offers great views of the rivers and airplanes taking off and landing at DCA. You can make a longer day of it in the area and visit the nearby Tidal Basin to explore the Jefferson, Roosevelt, and MLK Memorials.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* What to Do After the Derek Chauvin Verdict
* Help clean up the Anacostia with Green Boats!
* Washingtonian mapped every place to eat and drink by the water in the DC area.
* Real Simple’s recs for the best new books to read in 2021 (so far).
* Not a new book, but I’ve been reading and enjoying Outline by Rachel Cusk.
* All 56 movies nominated for an Oscar this year, ranked.
* Wow.

 

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Filed under 2021, All ages, Coronavirus, COVID-19, DC, Maryland, Social Distancing, Spring, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: April 16-18

Head to Great Falls for a hike and spectacular scenery — for free!

 

This Weekend Round-Up is somewhat abbreviated as we’re away for Spring Break, but these quick links and listings will lead you to loads of ongoing things to do, seasonal activities, and a few special events.  Happy Weekend!

Find ideas and inspo in these go-to posts:
* Spring Things to Get Excited About
* Local Hikes with Kids
Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Saturday
Admission: Free

National Park Week starts on Saturday, and it’s kicking off with a fee free day, so there’s no entrance fee to national parks that usually charge admission. Take advantage and hit the trail at  Great Falls, ShenandoahPrince William Forest, Harpers Ferry, or head up to Baltimore to explore Fort McHenry. Find even more parks to visit here.

Root for the Home Team
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $14/ticket

Single game tickets are now available to the public to catch a Nats game in person at the ballpark! That includes this weekend’s series against the Diamondbacks. Tickets will be sold in socially distanced pods of 1 to 6 tickets. Safety measures like assigned entrances, mobile food orders, extra signage, and masks required are in placed for Covid. Let’s go, Nats!

Tulips Galore
Where: Burnside Farm | Nokesville, VA
When: Friday (Saturday & Sunday sold out)
Admission: $20.50/adult, $10.50/child

Experience a bit of Holland in Northern Virginia at Burnside Farms’ annual festival as blooming tulips stretch along acres of fields in an array of colors and varieties. Even more, you can pick your own to bring home. Admission for the event has increased this year, but also includes bouncy fun, a play  area, and five tulips to pick. Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance.  And if you find the entry price steep, know that there are more, great (free) flower blooms on the way —  see what else is coming up around the area.

Drive-In Time
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car

Catch a flick from the comfort of your car — an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Trolls will be on the big outdoor screen on Friday night, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Fairy & Gnome Home Festival
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Sunday (timed-entry)
Admission: $7/age 2+
This annual festival at one of the most enchanting places will delight the whole family — and we know from experience. Festivities are scattered throughout the beautiful grounds, creating a charming journey for young (and young at heart) guests. They’ve reconfigured the outdoor event to accommodate social-distancing and low-touch precautions, providing an an experience for families to imagine, create, and explore! Let kiddos dress in their magical finery and bring some chairs or a picnic blanket. Advance, timed-entry tickets are required for admission and “unicorn” rides. Read more about Annmarie Sculpture Garden and get a glimpse in this KFDC post and this one.

NoVa Parking
Where: Several 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. Find things to do by activity, or check out individual parks and see what they have going on.

Go for a Spin
Where: Cabin John (Bethesda) & Wheaton Regional Park, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $2.50

All aboard! Montgomery Park’s Cabin John Train and Wheaton Train and Carousel are open for the season on weekends. Take kiddos for a spin around the parks on replicas of an 1863 steam locomotive. Or go for whirl on the Carousel (Wheaton only). Plan for time on the playgrounds, too — both offer lots of fun for little ones.  Read more about Cabin John here and Wheaton here.

Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks around 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. Join a Campfire Friday at Lake Fairfax Park. Create a bird-themed craft at Sully Historic Site.  Take older kids on a nature kayaking adventure. Details and registration for these and more activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

StoryWalk: Rainbow Weaver
Where: Downtown Kensington, MD
When: Starting Saturday through May 15
Admission: Free
The Noyes Library Foundation presents its newest StoryWalk!  Families are invited to read the book Rainbow Weaver by Linda Elovitz Marshall, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri, on posted signs on a self-guided stroll through Capitol View-Homewood Local Park (2929 Edgewood Road, Kensington, MD).  The book focuses on a young girl who wants to weave like her mother and the women of her Guatemalan village. A QR code to scan at the StoryWalk will take users to the Foundation’s website for crafts and printable coloring pages related to the book.

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Filed under 2021, All ages, Coronavirus, COVID-19, DC, Maryland, Seasonal, Social Distancing, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: April 9-11

Boating season has begun in the DC area

 

Happy Weekend!

Back-pocket posts full of ideas for local recreation:
* Local Hikes with Kids
Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Long Awaited Reopening
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/adult, $7/child, free for members

The National Building Museum reopens on Friday after being closed since even before Covid shut everything down. Visitors will be welcome on weekends, Friday – Sunday, to view the exhibits, browse the gift shop, and marvel at the stunning Great Hall.  Two new exhibitions,  Gun Violence Memorial Project and Justice is Beauty: The Work of MASS Design Group, sound interesting and timely, and a few more ongoing exhibits will be back. A heads-up that the children’s areas — PLAY WORK BUILD and Building Zone — are not yet open.  Also of note:  It’s still free to hang out in the Great Hall; just certain exhibits require tickets.

Victura Park is Popping Back Up
Where: The REACH | Kennedy Center, DC
When: Friday 4-9pm, Saturday & Sunday, 12-9pm
Admission: Free

The weekend wine garden is back at The REACH, the Kennedy Center’s immersive extension. Part of the lovely outdoor area transforms into Victura Park, a family-friendly pop-up wine and beer garden & café, offering snacks and sips that you can enjoy at socially distanced tables or in other areas. Be sure to stroll around the grounds, the large plaza (we’ve seen skates and scooters there), and the sweeping Kennedy Center terrace, where you can also enjoy great Potomac River views.

It’s Glow Time
Where: Around Georgetown, DC
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free

Georgetown Glow, the annual exhibition that usually takes place during the holiday season, was rescheduled for spring. See the neighborhood sparkle with modern light art installations throughout the bustling community. Take the fam to dinner, then go for a stroll to check them all out. Get a glimpse of a past light show here.

Mini Trains & Carousel Opening
Where: Cabin John in Bethesda & Wheaton Regional Park, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $2.50

All aboard! Montgomery Park’s Cabin John Train and Wheaton Train and Carousel are opening for the season. Take kiddos for a spin around the parks on replicas of an 1863 steam locomotive. Or go for whirl on the Carousel (Wheaton only). Plan for time on the playgrounds, too — both offer lots of fun for little ones.  Read more about Cabin John here and Wheaton here.

Fairies in the Garden
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $5 suggested donation

Guaranteed to delight, the annual exhibit of fairy and gnome houses at Annmarie Sculpture Garden begins this weekend.This year more than 100 homes for sprightly creatures will be scattered throughout the grounds. Viewing them as you walk along a trail through the woods is fun for all. Plan for play time in the adorable Fairy Lolly, and stop in the Arts Center for more creative works. Get a glimpse of it all here and here.   PS: The Fairy & Gnome Home Festival is next Sunday, April 18, in case you want to save a visit for then.

Go with the Flow
Where: Waterways around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

Row, row, row your boat or kayak or canoe! Paddle season has started as several places have started offering boat rentals and more open this weekend. Boating in DC has several locations in the District and a few NoVa Parks offer it, too. This post about places to go with the flow has more details.

Bloomaroo
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Through Sunday
Admission: Varies

It’s the last weekend that the Wharf is celebrating the cherry blossoms with Bloomaroo. Enjoy food and drinks specials at many of the restaurants.  Catch Anime Movies, including the newest Sonic the Hedgehog movie. Check out a special mural created by ARTECHOUSE, too. Ride the Wharf Jitney or hop on the Water Taxi to get an up-close look at what’s left of the bloom and more scenic sights of DC. For more about The Wharf, see this KFDC post.

Farm Fun
Where: Farms around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

Easter may be over, but some of the farms that hosted egg hunts are still running and offering lots of fun for families. Great Country has a whole play area, farm market, and baby goats. Clark’s Elioak delights with its old storybook park installations and mini rides for kids. And Butler’s Orchard is even hosting Bunnyland for one more weekend. And check out the recent post for ways to Bring the Fun Home… from DC Area Farms!

Around the World Virtual Family Scavenger Hunt
Where: Watson Adventures | Online
When: Saturday, 4-5:30pm
Admission: $19

Just because you can’t travel widely doesn’t mean your family still can’t go around the world! This global virtual adventure will send you off to explore the world’s best museums and historic locations via links to eye-popping websites. Your challenge: follow our clues, find amazing objects, and answer tricky questions about them. Stops along the way include a 360-degree view of the ancient streets of Pompeii, Italy, prehistoric cave paintings in France, a swim around the Great Barrier Reef and a live panda cam in China, just to name a few.

Shakespeare Family Fest
Where: Shakespeare Theatre Company | Online
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free

Hear ye! Hear ye! Join the fun in a weekend of free virtual events for the whole family. Explore the magic of theatre with virtual performances of A Mini-Summer Night’s Dream and The Tiny Tempest, a stage blood demonstration, interactive workshops, crafting activities, and more. Meet Shakespeare Theatre Company staff and teaching artists and learn more about Classes for Youth and Teens and Camp Shakespeare. Drop in for a session or spend the whole weekend with them. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Pop-Up Street Theater
Where: Locales around Arlington, VA
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free

Catch Synetic Theatre’s final pop-up performances of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. They’ll be clowning around and bringing street theater to Arlington parks, as a pair of improv actors make appearances at the Art Wall in Virginia Highlands Park, the Crystal City Water Park, and the Long Bridge Park Esplanade.  Follow @synetictheater on Instagram to see where they are and how long they’ll be there!

Go Fly A Kite
Where: Alethia Tanner Park | NoMa, DC
When: Sunday, 12-3pm
Admission: Free

Wind down the National Cherry Blossom with this sweet giveaway rom the NoMa BID. Stop by Alethia Tanner Park and pick up a free kite kit — and put it together to fly from the large lawn. Plan for some time on the playground and bring along pups to play in the dog park. You can even bring along a picnic and make a day of it! The park is located at 227 Harry Thomas Way NE.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* A group of local middle middle-schoolers have taken their creative fun to the next level and started Glasswing Tie Dye, selling T-shirts with all kinds of cool tie dye designs.
* Washingtonian highlights five fun food events around DC this weekend.
* Just posted this week: Spring Things to Get Excited About Around the DC Area (some of them in this round-up).
* The Yards and Pacers Running are hosting Brunch On the Go, a guided stretch and run along the riverfront, followed by a curated to-go brunch from Yards restaurants Osteria Morini, Shilling Canning Co., and Chloe. It will be offered April 17, April 24, and May 1.
* Is your child practicing the recorder? 😂

 

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Filed under 2021, All ages, Coronavirus, COVID-19, DC, Maryland, Social Distancing, Spring, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: April 2-4

 

Happy Easter Weekend!

Quick links for go-to posts:
* Local Hikes with Kids
Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Blossoms & Baseball Drive-in
Where: Akridge Lot | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm
Admission: $20/car

The Nats home opening series may be off but Blossoms & Baseball is still on. The Capitol Riverfront BID is welcoming the spring season back to the neighborhood with cherry blossom cheer and baseball-themed drive-in movies.  Catch 42: The True Story of an American Legend on Friday evening and A League of Their Own on Saturday.

Egg Hunt Weekend
Where: Clark’s Elioak Farm | Clarksburg, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $8

Enjoy some spring and holiday fun at a place that looks straight out of a fairytale.  The grounds are charmingly adorned with recovered installations from an old storybook park, making it magical for kids. Little ones (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs throughout the day! 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. 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 Egg Hunt
Where: Potomac Overlook Regional Park | Arlington, VA
When: Through Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $8/child

Join Potomac Overlook Regional Park  to take part in this ongoing event. Pick up your egg hunt sheet at the nature center, explore the park for 8 different “wooden eggs,” then return to the nature center with your completed sheet for a prize!  No reservations required — just hop on over and experience a brand new kind of egg hunt in park that’s great for families to explore. Read more about Potomac Overlook in this KFDC post. And find even more egg-cellent adventures around the area here.

Bunnyland
Where: Butler’s Orchard
When: Saturday (& Monday)
Admission: $10

One of the more popular spring festivals in the area begins this weekend.  Butler’s has all the trappings for seasonal fun: bunnies, eggs, and other Easter-related treats for young guests. More fun includes hayrides down the Bunny Trail, egg hunts, the Rubber Ducky Derby, giant slides, jumping pads, and a small petting zoo.  Concessions are available, and there are also plenty of picnic tables if you prefer to pack a lunch.  See the website for safety measures in place for Covid.

Cosmic Egg Portrait & Art Kit
Where: American Visionary Art Museum | Baltimore, MD
When: April 3
Admission: Free photo, $18/frame kit

Register for an egg-citing, free spring photo with the AVAM’s Cosmic Galaxy Egg sculpture. They’ll take a socially-distanced INSTANT photo of you that you can take home right away. Optional: Add a limited edition Cosmic Egg picture frame kit!  And while you’re there, plan to explore the museum with some of the most wonderful, whimsical art around — read about it here.  Museum admission is $15,95/adult, $9.95/child, free for ages 6 and under. Can’t attend, but want a frame shipped to you? Visit avam.org/shop.

Bunny Train Ride
Where: Walkersville Southern Railroad | Walkersville, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $18/adult, $17/senior, $14/age 1-12

All aboard for a trip back in time with the Easter Bunny! Travel over track that the Pennsylvania Railroad originally built in 1872. See Walkersville Southern’s turn-of-the- century railroad station and tool house, then visit with the Bunny on the train (who will also give each child an Easter gift!). Ride in vintage 1920s passenger cars or on an open flatcar as your rail excursion runs past a 100-year-old lime kiln, and then out into picturesque Maryland farm country. Enjoy juice and Uncle Ralph’s cookies in the museum after your ride. Reservations required!

Big Screen Drive-In
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm
Admission: $40/car

Catch a flick from the comfort of your car — an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Shrek will be shown on Friday, and The Mummy on Saturday, both at 7:30pm. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance.

Outdoor Adventure
Where: Terrapin Adventures | Savage, MD
When: Ongoing
Admission: Starts at $29

With the Sandy Spring Adventure Park sold out all weekend (and most of April), this is an alternative to to try for a unique outdoor adventure. (Note: We haven’t been to this one, so I can’t offer insight based on experience, but the ropes course is much smaller.) Along with ropes courses, there’s also a climbing wall and archery. They also offer tubing, kayak, caving, and mountain biking tours. And you can get a deal on admission through CertifiKID.

Go with the Flow
Where: Parks in Northern Virginia
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by park

Paddling season his starting at a few locations within the NoVA Parks systems. You can rents kayaks, canoes, standup paddle boards, and pedal boats at Pohick Bay, Fountainhead, and Occoquan Regional Parks. There are even some special paddle tours offered that explore the nature of the area.

Petal Porch Parade
Where: At home & around the DC area
When: Through April 11
Admission: Free

Check out local porches decorated for cherry blossom season!  Since we can’t have a big parade this year,folks were encouraged to get creative and show their blossom spirit by decorating their porches, yards, and windows to spread joy and connect communities.  This map shows locations of all registered Petal Porches, so you can plan a walk or drive to see and share in the celebration of spring.  On the weekend of April 10-11, a Petal Procession will drive through select Petal Porch Parade neighborhoods in and around DC.

Bloomaroo
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Through April 11
Admission: Varies

The Wharf is celebrating  spring and the blossoms with Bloomaroo, nearly of month of cherry blossom-themed art installations, food and drink specials and more festivities. Catch Anime Movies, including the newest Sonic the Hedgehog movie. Check out a special mural created by ARTECHOUSE, too. Restaurants at the waterfront destination will have cherry blossom-inspired menus, and keep an eye out for special samplings, beer dinners, and more. Ride the Wharf Jitney or hop on the Water Taxi for an up-close look at DC’s favorite landmarks — the cherry trees. For more about The Wharf, see this KFDC post.

Pop-Up Street Theater
Where: Locales around Arlington, VA
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free

Synetic Theatre will be clowning around with pop-up performances all around Arlington during the Festival. To work with these social distancing times, they are bringing back street theater as a pair of improv actors make appearances at the Art Wall in Virginia Highlands Park, the Crystal City Water Park, and the Long Bridge Park Esplanade.Follow @synetictheater on Instagram to see where they are and how long they’ll be there!

Dino Safari
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Daily through April 19
Admission: $49.95/vehicle (up to 7 people); $59.95/larger vehicle

Running now through April 11, Dino Safari, brings prehistoric times to pandemic times, offering a drive-thru, no-contact yet immersive experience. You may be familiar with these Jurassic Park-inspired attractions, which feature life-size animatronic dinosaurs. This one is unique in its “Passport to Pangea” theme, transporting you through all seven continents — which were formerly one supercontinent, Pangea, in dinosaur times. Read a full review here.

Trail Time
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale

There’s a link to the round-up of hike around the area at the top of this list, but specific recs are often helpful, as some places can get crowded on weekends, especially on a beautiful spring weekend. And some are just great for other reasons. I just posted about the hike to the beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park. Turkey Run Park is a good place to go when Roosevelt Island is overrun. Prince William State Forest is so big, there’s plenty of space for a nice walk in the woods. And Wye Island NMRA on the Eastern Shore is a lovely place to escape the city bustle.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* A local mom has started hosting Pop-Up Art Classes for young artists at spots around Alexandria, and the sessions look and sound so sweet.  Follow her on Instagram to see where and when the classes will be popping up!
* Planet Word reopened this week, and you can still reserve free tickets for later this month. I highly recommend it — the museum dedicated to language is fantastic!
* After a very long wait (remember, it was closed for renovations pre-Covid?), the National Building Museum reopens April 9!
* There’s a new post about Glenstone, the incredible modern art museum that sprawls over 300 gorgeous acres in Potomac.
* The cherry blossom peak may be over, but there are more awesome flower blooms coming up, literally! Read about them here.
* Darcy just shared 10 Happy Things for April, and her list is fabulous as ever.

 

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Filed under 2021, All ages, DC, Maryland, Seasonal, Social Distancing, Spring, Virginia, Weekend

The Weekend Round-Up: March 26-28

Grand marshals of the Petal Porch Parade!

 

Happy Weekend!

Go-to posts for ongoing recreation:
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Best Outdoor Spots
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides

Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Picking
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult, $5/egg hunt

Head to the farm for good ol’ fashioned egg hunts and the first “crop” of the spring — Marshmallow Picking! (Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees?) Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire. The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs filled with treats to enchant the children, and Great Country needs help finding them. There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance ($5 extra). Plan to see the spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and enjoy the sprawling play area, too!

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies

The flowers aren’t quite yet peaking, but events and activities to celebrate DC’s iconic bloom begin are happening.  Seek out blossom-inspired art, join virtual programs, enjoy dining and shopping specials just for the season, and more.  See the beginning of the bloom in at least one place, and bring the fun home with some related activities.

Petal Porch Parade
Where: At home & around the DC area
When: Through April 11
Admission: Free

Check out local porches decorated for cherry blossom season!  Since we can’t have a big parade this year,folks were encouraged to get creative and show their blossom spirit by decorating their porches, yards, and windows to spread joy and connect communities.  This map shows locations of all registered Petal Porches, so you can plan a walk or drive to see and share in the celebration of spring.  On the weekend of April 10-11, a Petal Procession will drive through select Petal Porch Parade neighborhoods in and around DC.

Art in Bloom
Where: Around the DC area
When: Through March 31
Admission: Free
This visual arts exhibition spanning all eight wards of DC, plus a few areas in Maryland and Virginia, radiates the spirit of spring! Go on a Blossom Hunt to find 26 oversized cherry blossom statues painted by local artists and share on Instagram or Twitter with the #artinbloom tag. The NCB will randomly select winners of Festival prize packages.

Blossom Kite Fly
Where: Your backyard or local park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free

The annual Kite Festival on the Mall — one of the best events of the NCBF (& anytime in DC, for that matter) —  is not happening this year. Instead, the Festival encourages all to take part in the kite-flying tradition on their own — but with the help of workshops and demos. Find more information about registering here.

Bloomaroo
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Through April 11
Admission: Varies

The Wharf is celebrating  spring and the blossoms with Bloomaroo, nearly of month of cherry blossom-themed art installations, food and drink specials and more festivities. Catch Anime Movies, including the newest Sonic the Hedgehog movie. Check out a special mural created by ARTECHOUSE, too. Restaurants at the waterfront destination will have cherry blossom-inspired menus, and keep an eye out for special samplings, beer dinners, and more. Ride the Wharf Jitney or hop on the Water Taxi for an up-close look at DC’s favorite landmarks — the cherry trees. For more about The Wharf, see this KFDC post.

Dino Safari
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Daily through April 11
Admission: $49.95/vehicle (up to 7 people); $59.95/larger vehicle

Running now through April 11, Dino Safari, brings prehistoric times to pandemic times, offering a drive-thru, no-contact yet immersive experience. You may be familiar with these Jurassic Park-inspired attractions, which feature life-size animatronic dinosaurs. This one is unique in its “Passport to Pangea” theme, transporting you through all seven continents — which were formerly one supercontinent, Pangea, in dinosaur times. Read a full review here. Use code KIDDC5 to receive $5 off your ticket!

Bunnyland
Where: Butler’s Orchard
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $10

One of the more popular spring festivals in the area begins this weekend.  Butler’s has all the trappings for seasonal fun: bunnies, eggs, and other Easter-related treats for young guests. More fun includes hayrides down the Bunny Trail, egg hunts, the Rubber Ducky Derby, giant slides, jumping pads, and a small petting zoo.  Concessions are available, and there are also plenty of picnic tables if you prefer to pack a lunch.  See the website for safety measures in place for Covid.

Easter Egg Hunt
Where: Potomac Overlook Regional Park | Arlington, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $8/child

Join Potomac Overlook Regional Park any day from Saturday to April 4 to take part in this ongoing event. Pick up your egg hunt sheet at the nature center, explore the park for 8 different “wooden eggs,” then return to the nature center with your completed sheet for a prize!  No reservations required — just hop on over and experience a brand new kind of egg hunt in park that’s great for families to explore. Read more about Potomac Overlook in this KFDC post. And find even more egg-cellent adventures around the area 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, and Meadowlark.

Movie at the Drive-In
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 7:30pm
Admission: $40/car

Catch a flick from the comfort of your car — an ideal way to enjoy some entertainment out of the house and social distance. Remember the Titans will be on the big outdoor screen this weekend. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd! Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Camp Anthem
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Friday/Saturday/Sunday through May
Admission:

The Anthem is bringing back its pop-up restaurant with tables seating up to 6 on the District Pier, each covered by a cabana tent. Enjoy a breezy lunch or dinner by the river at the waterfront destination. Reservations are required, and there is a $150 minimum per table, $50 per 2-top. There is a two-hour max at each table to allow thorough cleaning in between time slots.

Women’s History Month Virtual Festival
Where: National Portrait Gallery | Online
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free

Join the Portrait Gallery in a virtual celebration of women making history!Explore the online exhibition “Where There Is a Woman There Is Magic,” which highlights leaders in sports, arts, science and activism. It’s part of a day-long lineup featuring events and activities for participants of all ages, including workshops, speakers, art activities and more!

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

The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring reopens for the season this weekend! The fun actually starts Saturday, but it’s already sold out, so reserve in advance for Sunday or a future date — reservations are now required due to Covid. Kids as young 5 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.

Pop-Up Street Theater
Where: Locales around Arlington, VA
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free

Synetic Theatre will be clowning around with pop-up performances all around Arlington during the Festival. To work with these social distancing times, they are bringing back street theater as a pair of improv actors make appearances at the Art Wall in Virginia Highlands Park, the Crystal City Water Park, and the Long Bridge Park Esplanade.Follow @synetictheater on Instagram to see where they are and how long they’ll be there!

Disc Golfin’
Where: Courses around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free

Hit the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a nice spring day outdoors with the family. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses, many of them set up in scenic places, are lovely this time of year. This post has info about one in College Park, and there are also great courses at Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, Patapsco Valley State Park near Baltimore, and Burke Lake Park in Burke, VA.

Virtual Artful Conversations: Colored Pencil Techniques
Where: National Gallery of Art | Online
When: Sunday, 10am & 1pm
Admission: Free
Sharpen up your colored pencils and your drawing skills during Artful Conversations. Please join the session with colored pencils, two sheets of paper to draw on, and an eraser. Registration is required for this free program. An adult is required to attend the session alongside the child(ren).

Sakura Sunday
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Sunday
Admission: Free

On Sundays during cherry blossom seaosn,  National Harbor is hosting free cultural activities, including Japanese inspired art creations, culinary classes, in person and virtual, and much more.  See what else will be at the waterfront destination during the season.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* In case you haven’t seen it, there’s a brand new post about Where to Go & What to Do During Spring Break 2021
DC Way now offers weekly Skills Clinics, Strikers School, & Goalkeeping School
* Race for a cause with the 11th Annual Fairfax Run for the Children
* Don’t tell my mom, but this made me laugh. (Happy Passover to all celebrating!)
* More McSweeney’s because this nails it.
* Half-vaxed here and totally feeling this!

 

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Filed under 2021, All ages, Coronavirus, COVID-19, DC, Maryland, Seasonal, Social Distancing, Special Event, Spring, Virginia, Weekend