Tag Archives: September 2016

September 23, 2016 · 9:16 am

The Weekend Round-Up: September 24-25

Celebrate the grand opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Freedom Sounds Festival

I would call this a big weekend for DC, as we welcome a new museum to the National Mall, host one of the most anticipated annual festivals for book lovers, celebrate the city’s theatre scene, and kick off the official start of fall with a bevy of seasonal fun. But big things always happen here, so it’s really just another (awesome) weekend in Washington. The great variety of fantastic, enriching events in this round-up is proof. Happy Weekend!

Freedom Sounds Festival
Where: Washington Monument Grounds
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
The National Museum of African American History and Culture opens this weekend, and while you can’t yet visit if you don’t have tickets, you can celebrate the Smithsonian’s newest addition at a big festival right outside the museum. There will be all kinds of festivities throughout the days — music and dance performances, storytelling, art activities, a drum circle, concessions, and more — and the official dedication ceremony will be on Saturday at 10am. Want some evening entertainment? There will be concerts both Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm. The Roots, Public Enemy, and Living Colour are among the performers.

National Book Festival
Where: Washington Convention Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 10pm
Admission: Free
Bookworms, take note! One of DC’s biggest annual events is on Saturday. The Library of Congress National Book Festival will feature more than 120 authors, poets, and illustrators from every literary genre. Even better, they will all be there presenting book readings, talks, Q&A’s, book signings, and more. These will take place along with lots of other reading-related activities for all ages. For an idea of what to expect, see this post about one of our past experiences there.

Take the Fall
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Autumn has arrived, and there are tons of ways to celebrate the season, from city streets to country farms. The annual Barracks Row Fall Festival is back on 8th Street SE on Saturday. Ren Fest gets medieval every weekend through October. Cox, Great Country, Montpelier, Clark’s Elioak, and many more farms around the area are welcoming visitors for all kinds of autumn-inspired fun. Get details on all of these events in KFDC guide to Fall Festivals.

Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show
Where: Mill Street in Occoquan, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Plan for a day of family fun as the streets of Occoquan come to life with beautiful art, live music, and great food! For the 47th year, the historic town will close its streets and host over 300 contemporary and country crafters and artisans from across the US. Find one-of-a-kind, hand crafted items galore. Located just 20 minutes south of Washington DC, but far from the hustle and bustle of a big city, exhibitors and shoppers alike will enjoy the small town oasis nestled along the Occoquan River.

Volunteer for Public Lands
Where: Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
When: Saturday, 9am
Admission: Free
Celebrate and serve with Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on National Public Lands Day. Volunteer for the morning to help remove cut lotus from the ponds, clear invasive species from the forest, pick up litter, and complete other tasks around the park. After, stay for a free lunch in the picnic area. Individuals, groups, families, friends welcome — there is something for everyone! SSL credit can be earned. Sign up online here. And if you can’t make it this weekend, you can sign up for October 22 or November 12.

Museum Day Live
Where: Various museums
When: Saturday
Admission: FREE
There are some museums in the DC area that actually charge admission. But on Saturday, Smithsonian Magazine is hosting its annual Museum Day Live!, when those that require us to open our wallets to visit are free. Take advantage at the Newseum, National Museum of Women in the Arts, Koshland Science Museum, National Building Museum, Kreeger Museum, Dumbarton Oaks, and many more fantastic museums in the area. You do have to register and bring a ticket (that is good for admission for two people), but it’s all complimentary!

theatreWeek
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15-35
The theatre world’s version of Restaurant week celebrates the fun of going to the theatre by offering patrons tickets for less. Through October 2, you can see any of the participating shows for $15-35, giving you some kind of discount on the regular price — and several of this week’s Show Time recommendations (see below) are among them!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* It’s opening weekend for Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale at Adventure Theatre
* See (and smell?) Flowers Stink, a collaboration between the U.S. Botanic Garden and the Kennedy Center
* Watch Rapunzel let down her hair as The Puppet Co. presents the marionette version of the classic fairytale.
* And Teddy Bear’s Picnic is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* Catch the Shakepeare Theatre Company’s fantastic production of Romeo & Juliet (recommended for older children or make it a date night)
* Jungle Gym Jam & Friends featuring Marsha Goodman-Wood are playing the Saturday morning show at Jammin’ Java
* The Olney Theatre presents The Diary of Anne Frank
* The Little Foxes is coming to the Arena Stage (recommended for teens and up)
* Enjoy Pinkalicous the Musical at BlackRock Center for the Arts

Shop Local & Support a School
Where: Maury Elementary School
When: Saturday, 9am – 2pm
Admission: Free, but be ready to spend on awesome finds!
Bargain hunters take note: This is one Yard Sale you don’t want to miss — it’s always huge and excellent. Clothes, toys, bikes, books, baby gear, housewares, furniture, and much more fantastic stuff will be on sale for super cheap. Even better, all proceeds help support a DC public school. Maury Elementary is located at 1250 Constitution Ave. NE.

Teddy Bear Clinic
Where: National Museum of Health & Medicine
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Bring your favorite stuffed friend and explore the Teddy Bear Clinic with activities and crafts designed to highlight the body, physical fitness, and healthy habits. This program is recommended for children in PreK-2nd grade.

Fancy This
Where: Brookside Gardens
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $8/ages 13 and up, $5/3-12, free ages 0-2
It’s your last chance to walk amid the garden of butterflies at Brookside Garden’s amazing Wings of Fancy exhibit. The display featuring live butterflies and caterpillars from all over the world is sure to delight! Read about a KFDC experience at the exhibit. Plan to tour the rest of Brookside’s lovely grounds while you’re there and see if there are any other special kids’ programs to enjoy.

STEM Magic | Core Concept: OSIRIS-REx
Where: Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
Join the Air & Space Museum for Making STEM Magic, a program that introduces young visitors to engineering in a fun and creative way. During this session, learn about NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission to land on an asteroid, take a sample, and bring it back home, then design your own sampling device!

Opera in the Outfield
Where: Nationals Park
When: Saturday, 5pm
Admission: Free
How about opera where there’s usually baseball? The Washington National Opera presents Opera in the Outfield for the 8th year with a simulcast performance of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro on Saturday evening. The show starts at 7pm, but gates open at 5pm for “pregame” activities for the entire family, including a costume dress-up station, fun photo ops, arts & crafts, face painting, chances to win prizes, and more. Get there early for a seat on the field, otherwise there will be plenty of seating in the stands.

Veg Out
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 11am – 6pm
Admission: Free
Bring the kids to the largest celebration of vegetarian and vegan living in the area. Now in its 9th year, DC VegFest is a full day of delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine, cooking demos, music, and more. A Kid’s Area will feature entertainment by Teatro de la Luna and Norm Hogeland, storytelling, an Ask-A-Vegan Parent Panel, kid-friendly cooking demos, and a child nutritionist. Attendees will enjoy free food samples along with tasty vegan cuisine from food vendors.

Leesburg Airshow
Where: Leesburg Executive Airport
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
The 7th annual Leesburg Airshow will take to the skies with thrilling aerobatic demonstrations, sky divers, and more! Witness a showcase of impressive aircraft, classic cars, and a variety of exhibitors on the tarmac, food vendors, flight schools, and aviation clubs among them. Go here for directions and parking instructions.

Yoga on the Mall
Where: National Mall Sylvan Theatre
When: Sunday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Yogis of all ages are welcome to get on the mat for downward dogs and tree poses on the National Mall. Well known instructors will be leading a variety of classes, including meditation, a family fun session, and an acro-yoga demo. While admission is free, you should RSVP.

Then & Wow!
Where: Glen Echo Park
When: Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
This family festival is the Glen Echo Park Partnership’s annual celebration of the Park’s revitalization and recalling of its history. The event features kiddie rides and arcade games, as well as videos and an exhibition on the Park’s past. Take a ride on the historic Dentzel Carousel, get little faces painted, see vintage cars, and be wowed magic shows, too. Admission to the park is free, but rides and some activities require tickets.

Turkish Festival
Where: Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 12th-14th St.
When: Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
You’ll be whirling like a dervish from all there is to enjoy at the Annual Turkish Festival on Sunday. Watch Turkish dance and stage performances, enjoy a Turkish coffee and tea and have and find out your destiny from the ever-popular Turkish fortune-tellers who read fortunes from coffee grinds, and sample Turkish cuisine from local restaurants. Shop an authentic Turkish bazaar featuring 25 vendors showcasing everything from Turkish jewelry to clothing to home accessories. And a “Kid’s Tent” will provide an interactive introduction to Turkey with hands-on activities for children of all ages.

Curse of the Boggin Book Reading
Where: Barnes & Noble Tysons
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Free
Bring young readers to Barnes & Noble in Tysons Corner Center for a reading by acclaimed children’s author D.J. MacHake. He will read and sign copies of his newest book The Curse of the Boggin, the first in The Library Series about a mysterious library between dimensions and the incredible adventures of 13-year-old Marcus O’Mara and his friends. Mr. MacHale has also written several popular series including Pendragon, Morpheus Road and The SYLO Chronicles. Recommended for ages 8-12.

The Ins and Outs of DC
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
If you’re looking for activities outdoors or inside, depending on the weather or simply your preference, these posts are chock full of evergreen pursuits:
The Great Indoors
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

The Weekend Round-Up: September 16-18

How will you enjoy the last official weekend of summer?

You can eke out the last bit of summer or start focusing on fall (or both!) with this round-up of special events and activities. Taking place indoors and out, in the heart of the city to farms miles beyond, there’s fun to indulge all interests — and seasons. Happy Weekend!

Celebrate from City Streets Country Farms
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by event
Fall may not have officially started, but seasonal festivals have begun at several area farms, on H Street (see below), and in locales that recall historic times (huzzah!). And they’re welcoming visitors for all kinds of fun. Get details on all of them in this guide to autumn celebrations around the area.

Truckaroo
Where: The Bullpen at Half Street Fairgrounds
When: Friday, 11am – 11pm
Admission: Free
Go for lunch, an after school snack, or al fresco dinner and stay awhile for entertainment and fun! Truckeroo, the food truck festival showcasing local eats on wheels, features tons of food options along with live music, games for all ages, and tasty beverages (for adults). Kids and canines are always welcome to enjoy it all, too!

Colonial Market Fair
Where: Mount Vernon
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $17/adult, $9/child, free for ages 5 and under
At George Washington’s old digs, they re-create a lively early-American marketplace with demonstrations, crafts, and entertainment for all. Artisans from across the nation show off their trades and sell their wares, while family entertainment delights audiences with 18th-century amusements. Try your hand at 18th century cricket — demonstrations and cricket games will be played throughout the weekend. General Washington will preside many festivities. And concession will be available from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant stands. (Note: Admission prices listed above are online only; they are slightly higher there.)

The National Garden 10th Anniversary
Where: U.S. Botanic Garden
When: Saturday,
Admission: Free
Help the USBG celebrate the 10th Anniversary of their very own National Garden! Highlighting the three-acres of garden space adjacent to the Conservatory, the day-long festival showcases the amazing diversity of American plants through the Mid-Atlantic Regional Garden, Rose Garden, and Butterfly Garden with special activities and programs. Highlights will include tasty treats with native plants, rose garden tours, hands-on activities for all ages, and much more! Read a little more about the National Garden in this KFDC post.

Gimme an H!
Where: H Street NE
When: Saturday, 1-6pm
Admission: Free
The annual festival on northeast DC’s thriving corridor is always a big one. If you don’t mind crowds, there is a lot to see and do. The event features loads of live entertainment, including a kids stage; art exhibits; food trucks; crafts for sale by local vendors; fashion shows; dancin’ in the street; and kids’ activities, including face painting, story telling, and moon bounces. I recommend taking public transportation there — parking is guaranteed to be difficult.

Fiesta DC
Where: Constitution Ave. & Pennsylvania Ave. NW
When: Saturday, 1-5:30pm & Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Latino culture all weekend long! on Saturday, catch the parade along Constitution Avenue from the at the 45th Annual Fiesta DC. It all starts with the Parade of Nations along Constitution Ave. NW from 7th to 14th Streets. On Sunday, head to the festival on Pennsylvania Ave. NW from 3rd to 7th Streets to enjoy live performances, children’s activities, international cuisine, vendors, and much more!

King Street Art Festival
Where: Old Town Alexandria, King & Union Streets
When: Saturday 10am – 7pm & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The King Street Art Festival returns for its 14th year with live music, special programming, and more than 200 artists’ work available for purchase at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Shop and learn about the works, try some art activities for all ages, and enjoy live entertainment, too. And the annual Ice Cream Bowl Fundraiser will be back! Purchase one of 1,000+ hand-made bowls created by the talented and prolific artists of The Art League’s Ceramics Department and enjoy local artisan ice cream from Artfully Chocolate in Alexandria – all for only $15 per bowl. Proceeds go to benefit The Art League’s Ceramics department.

ARTSFest
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $6/adult, free for ages 11 and under
Head out to Solomons, MD, for an art-filled experience at a magical place! Browse and shop more than 165 artist booths throughout gardens and in the arts building. Enjoy entertainment from more than 30 performers on two stages. Kids will love activities in the Discovery Tent and Zany Zone, plus creative free-play in the gorgeous Fairy Lolly, the Studio School, and the Children’s Garden. Street performers — stilt walkers, mimes, live statues, and more — will entertain and mesmerize. There’s something for everyone at this anniversary celebration of the visual, performing, and creative arts. For more about Annmarie Sculpture Garden, see this KFDC post.

One Gold Coin–una moneda del oro
Where: Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission:$12.50/adult, $10/ages 4-11, free for 3 and under
Catch a performance of this favorite for young audiences from InterAct Story Theatre! One Gold Coin–una moneda de oro is a fun and engaging play for kids and families about the power of giving. Performed in English and Spanish with lots of audience participation, it’s a show that all ages can enjoy.

Lego Family Day
Where: Smithsonian American Art Museum
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Bring your budding architects to the Kogod Courtyard for a day of LEGOs, where they can use problem-solving skills and imagination to make works of art and architecture at LEGO building stations. Recreate some of the museum’s famous sculptures on display in the galleries or build your own new designs! Get inspired by the USPTO’s LEGO model of the museum’s historic building, which was home to the U.S. Patent Office in the 19th century.

Women in Aviation & Space
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Throughout the history of aviation and space exploration, women have fought to be on equal terms with their male counterparts. At this family day, enjoy learning about the significant contributions women have made despite the many challenges they faced. The day will feature presentations by women in the field, hands-on activities, and stories.

Honey Harvest Festival
Where: Brookside Gardens & Nature Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Brookside will be buzzing with fun on Saturday! Join them and the Maryland State Beekeepers Association to celebrate honeybees and pollinators. Talk to beekeepers, watch honey being harvested, buy local honey and bee products, plus enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, and crafts.

Monarch Fiesta
Where: Black Hill Visitors Center
When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the monarch butterfly’s amazing and inspiring metamorphosis and incredible journey to Mexico. Join us for music, food, dance, hands-on art, native plant sales, and plenty of opportunities to get up close with monarch butterflies. Participate in monarch tagging and learn about their habitats, and what you can do to make a difference.

Dulles Plane PullWhere: Dulles Airport
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Airplane tug o’ war, anyone? This annual event is Special Olympics Virginia’s “heaviest” fundraiser, pitting teams of 25 against one another to see who can pull a 164,000+ pound Airbus 12 feet the fastest. And the public is invited to watch it all go down. Along with the tug o’ airplane, there will be live music, a car show, military and civilian aircraft displays, business exhibits, and children’s games and entertainment. Gates open at 10:30am. Go here for directions and parking information.

Georgetown Community Day
Where: Georgetown University, 37th & O Streets NW
When: Saturday,
Admission: Free
Join the Georgetown community for a day of fun and family-friendly activities! Enjoy the celebration where there will be free food, face painting, moonbounces, and so much more. The community fair will include tables from local schools, community organizations, and University departments with information, giveaways, and more.

All Aboard for a Model Train Open House
Where: Historic Vienna Depot of the W&OD Railroad
When: Saturday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Chug on down to Vienna 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). Every hill, town, building, locomotive, rail car, and industry in this layout is modeled after those places and things as they looked in that era. Well, almost everything. To satisfy popular demand, expect an occasional sighting of Thomas the Tank Engine (and a few of his friends) 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.

Ren Fest
Where: Revel’s Grove in Crownsville, Md
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: $22/ages 16 and up, $10/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under
Enjoy the bounty of merriment at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. The annual faire recalls medieval times with a village full of fun and entertainment for the whole family. This is one of my very favorite events in the DC area, and it could very well become one of yours, too. Huzzah!

A Rainbow Rockin’ Morning
Where: Jammin Java
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $8/person, $25/4-pack
Get ready to rock the rainbow at a concert especially for kids! The talented Rainbow Rock tunesters will entertain the kiddie crowd with a combination of classic and original children’s songs from their CD “Meet the Rainbow.”

Let Down Your Hair!
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am & 1pm
Admission: $10
It’s opening weekend for Rapunzel at the puppet theater in Glen Echo Park. Recommended for ages 3.5-9 years old, the show uses “coloring-book” charm and the simplicity of hand puppets in this production designed to delight its younger audiences. And really little ones can enjoy Old MacDonald’s Farm, the featured Tiny Tots show on Saturday morning.

18th Century I Do’s
Where: Claude Moore Colonial Farm
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: $3/adult, $2/ages 3-12, free for 2 & under
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm family and their neighbors cordially invite you to celebrate with them on this joyous occasion. Witness an 18th century-style outdoor wedding ceremony. You can even dance with the bride and groom afterward and taste an authentic 18th century wedding cake! It’s an outing as fun as is it educational.

Family Workshop: Afghan Fighter Kites
Where: Sackler Gallery
When: Saturday and Sunday, 11am – 1pm & 2-4pm
Admission: Free
Children ages 6-12 and adults are invited to visit the exhibit Turquoise Mountain with teaching artist Mukhtar Ziarmal and learn about kite fighting, a popular activity for kids in Afghanistan. Then return to the classroom to collaborate with family and friends on constructing and decorating your own kite. Register in advance.

Mid-Autumn Festival
Where: Leesburg Premium Outlets
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: Free
Moon madness! Area trendsetters can look forward to a festive afternoon in honor of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrating the moon at its brightest and roundest point. Shoppers of all ages are invited to the Food Court to enjoy savory mooncake samples, construct one-of-a-kind lotus lanterns, and take advantage of extra-holiday savings on festive fall fashions!

Lantern Walk
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 6:30-9:3pm
Admission: Free
Inspired by the story of African American families who built their homes in historic neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River by candlelight after returning home from a long day’s work, this Lantern Walk is hosted by 1th Street Bridge Park and Washington Performing Arts. Create a lantern and join for an evening of performances celebrating the community!

ZooFiesta
Where: National Zoo
When: Sunday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
¡Celebramos! Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month at ZooFiesta! See animal demonstrations and learn about animals native to Latin America, such as golden lion tamarins, sloths, Andean bears, and anteaters. Meet Zoo experts and learn how they are working to save these species and more. Family activities include animal feedings, arts and crafts, musical entertainment, educational activities highlighting conservation research in Central and South America, and authentic gourmet cuisine at a Latin American inspired food bazaar. Bring the whole familia!

Cavalcade of Streetcars
Where: National Capital Trolley Museum
When: Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: $7/ages 18 and up, $5/ages 2-17
Hop on for a day of fun! Along with the museum’s array of exhibits, enjoy trolley rides on several of the cars from the museum’s collection. This event only happens a few times a year so take advantage while you can!

Spin through Glen Echo History
Where: Glen Echo Park
When: Sunday,
Admission: $25/adult, free for ages 9 and under
Join Oscura Society DC as they go for a spin and learn about the Dentzel Carousel of Glen Echo Park. Field agent Julie Seigel will lead a tour the grounds, and National Park Service Ranger Janet Greene will illuminate the remnants of the amusement park and share how the carousel itself served as a site of protest during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s. Historian and co-founder of the National Carousel Association Barbara Fahs Charles will discuss the creation and twenty-year long restoration of the Dentzel Carousel. Afterward, guests will be treated to a group ride and a small picnic!

Pirates & Princesses, Sea & Tea
Where: Pirate Adventures, Annapolis
When: Sunday
Admission: $27, $12/ages 2 and under
Ahoy, your little majesties! Pirate Adventures is teaming up with Party Time Princesses for an event to please both young buccaneers and royalty. Ariel and Tinkerbell will be visiting the Pirate Adventures party room on Sunday, giving patrons a chance to mingle them after an excursion on the Chesapeake. The Meet and Greet, including a Princess Tea Party, will be available after the 9:30am cruise and before the 12:30pm cruise. Enjoy photo ops, singing songs, and tea and treats as part of the special fun!

Walks in the Woods
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Hit the trail with the fam to enjoy the nice weather and some quality time. See very beginnings of autumn hues, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and enjoy a day of active fun. This post, started in the early KFDC days and updated several times since, has a a bunch of recommendations for good walks in the woods with the kids.

The Weekend Round-Up: September 9-11

Catch a sunset this evening at Yards Park’s final Friday Night Concert of the summer

This summer is kind of like those last lingering party guests. You know, great to have around while the bash is in full swing, but now that it’s winding down, you’re ready for them to go. But don’t let summer’s overstayed welcome (i.e., heat) curb your family fun. Opt for indoor activities or seek out shade. And keep in mind that fall is just around the corner, so enjoy the last bits of this season while you can. Because when those guests do finally leave, you often long for their company again. Happy Weekend!

Final Concert by the River
Where: Yards Park
When: Friday, 6:30pm
Admission: Free
Tonight is your last chance to catch live music in the fresh air at The Yards. Party Like It’s, the DC party band, will be playing a mix of covers and original tunes on the boardwalk to close out the Capitol Riverfront Summer Concert Series. Go early, so the kids can play in the fountains before the music starts or listen to it as they splash around. Bring along a picnic dinner or buy food there (and note that you can’t BYOB).

Family Day at Abe’s
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy the grounds of President Lincoln’s Cottage and Armed Forces Retirement Home as the Lincoln family did! There will be live entertainment and activities inspired by the Lincoln family and their life at the Soldiers’ Home. A Civil War encampment, petting zoo, pony rides, arts & crafts (including a top hat station and card making for veterans), live music, and food vendors will be part of the day’s festivities. RSVP to the free event!

Step Xplosion
Where: Raymond Recreation Center
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Free
Step right up for the culminating performance of Step Xplosion, the Step Africa! tour through all 8 DC Wards to kick off the new season. Featuring step teams from the DC area and DC’s own DJ Beauty & the Beatz, this is sure to be one thrilling show! Reserve your free tickets here.

Short Film Family Showcase
Where: DC Public Libraries
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
The 13th Annual DC Shorts Film Festival is back through September 18, presenting 131 films from 33 countries, countless parties, special screenings, and free events throughout the 10-day event. Among them is a FREE Family Showcase presented by RCN in partnership with DC Public Libraries – and you’re invited! For more about the films, the screenings, and the festival and to reserve your spot, visit the DC Shorts website.

Savor the Bay
Where: Sandy Point State Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $10, free for ages 12 and under
How about a day filled with delicious seafood, live entertainment, kids activities, food demos and competitions, loads of shopping options, vendors, exhibits, contests? You can enjoy all that and more at the 49th annual Maryland Seafood Festival. Even better, it all takes place on the beautiful shores of the Chesapeake Bay.

You Say Tomato…
Where: North Bestheda Market
When: Saturday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
You don’t have to travel all the way to Spain for a tomato-centric festival. And at Tomato Fest 2016, North Bethesda Market’s celebration of the fruit (or veggie, depending on how you categorize), you won’t get pelted by them either. Instead, you can enjoy live music, food & drink offerings, art, kids activities, contests, prizes, and a bushel of fun for the whole family!

Arts & Ales
Where: Hyattsville Gateway Arts District
When: Saturday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
The arts and brewing are coming together for a festival the whole family can enjoy. Over 100 exhibiting artists and artisans, Maryland craft breweries, food vendors, as well a variety of music and dance performances, and activities especially for kids, will be part of the all-ages fun.

Family Fit and Fun Open House
Where: My Gym Potomac & My Gym Bethesda
When: Saturday, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Take part in a specially designed and fun-filled day of fitness, including award-winning programs and Zumba, for kids of all ages. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about My Gym classes and offerings for children and families, and take advantage of enrollment specials and discounts offered at the event! Note that this is taking place at both the Potomac and Bethesda locations.

Pawpaw Festival
Where: Meadowside Nature Center
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: $5
Get your paws on this delightful native fruit and celebrate it with Meadowside Nature Center. They’ll have music, crafts, games, face painting, and advice on growing pawpaws. You can also get a taste of the fruit and purchase pawpaw trees, so you grow your own at home.

Fall into Fun Fair
Where: Washington Episcopal School
When: Saturday, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free, but tickets are required
Got kids ages 3-11? Don’t miss the Fall Into Fun Fair presented by our friends at Activity Rocket! Try sports, dance, STEM, yoga, Instrument Petting Zoos & more FREE. Washington Episcopal School is located at 5600 Little Falls Parkway in Bethesda). Get your free tickets here.

Fall Class Sampler
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Saturday, 9:45am – 12:45pm
Admission: Free
Sample Imagination Stage’s line-up of fall classes – on them. Sample classes are about 20 minutes in length, and give students and families a taste of the theatre’s classroom setting. They have exciting offerings for ages 12 months to grade 5. This is not a drop-off event; children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Online registration ends at noon on Friday, September 9. You can still register by phone on September 9 and in-person on September 9 and 10.

A Musical Journey into Space
Where: Jammin Java
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $8
Can kids go into space? Find out at Jammin Java on Saturday morning as Dr. Jim Thorne, a real space scientist and singer/songwriter, takes you and the kids on a musical journey from the historic Apollo moon program all the way to the stars. The full dinner and drinks menu will be available, so plan on lunch there, too.

Fall Family Festival
Where: Anacostia Community Museum
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the turn of the seasons with the Anacostia Community Museum at their annual event. Enjoy live entertainment, face painting, mask making, storytelling, art activities for the kids, and more. There will be all kinds of fun demos, vendors, and exhibitors outside, and even indoors – plenty of fun for the whole fam!

WashingCon
Where: Georgetown University Hotel and Conference Center
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $40
If you’re serious about board games, this tabletop gaming convention is an event you’ll want to check out. There will be opportunities to demo new games, enter tourneys to test your gaming skills against some of the best players, meet people who make and sell games, and more. Kids 10 and under can enter a fantasy themed costume contest in the Family Area. And word has it there will be lots of good swag to score.

Merriment for All
Where: Revel Grove in Crownsville, Md
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 7pm
Admission: $19/adults, $16/seniors, $8/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under
Take a glorious day trip back to medieval times at the Maryland Renaissance Festival — it’s a faire that appeals to all ages and sensibilities. Enjoy jousting matches, kids shows, cheeky comedy, tight rope walkers, jugglers, puppetry, Celtic music… and that’s just some of the live entertainment. There are also pony rides, a pirate playground, a giant slide, and all kinds of fun, fascinating things to see. Walk among knights, maidens, pirates, and villagers in Ren wear in a 16th-century village as you chomp on turkey legs and down cups of “mead.” It runs every weekend through October 23 — and admission prices go up after this Sunday — so put it on your fall must-go list. Huzzah!

Virginia Indian Festival
Where: Riverbend Park
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $7
Members of several Native American tribes will gather on the banks of the Potomac to share and celebrate their culture. See dance performances and dug-out canoe demos. Try throwing a spear, shooting a bow, and building a canoe. Shop for pottery, jewelry, and dreamcatchers. All in the beautiful Riverbend setting along the river!

Nats vs. Phillies
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
It’s one of the last weekends at home for the Nats as they host the Phillies. There are games tonight and tomorrow night 7:05pm, and on Sunday at 1:35pm. Stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases, and check these KFDC tips for doing a Nats game without breaking the bank.

PG County Fair
Where: Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $6/ages 12 and up, $5/ages 6-11, free for 5 and under
The county fair season continues! Enjoy a variety of entertainment and attractions for all ages at PG County’s annual event — 4-H exhibits, magic and dance shows, pig and duck races, a horse pull competition, a chain saw artist, a K-9 show, and much more carnival-style fun.

Rosslyn Jazz Festival
Where: Gateway Park
When: Saturday, 1-7pm
Admission: Free
Head across the Key Bridge from the city for this free annual music festival. Enjoy six hours of performances, fun, and drinks, plus a Kids’ Jazz Zone where children can create their own instrument by the Sandboxand play lawn games. See the website for the line-up of bands and details on parking.

Sing, Talk, and Read Family Festival
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
When: Saturday, 11am – 3pm
Admission Free
Join DC Public Library for a day of literacy fun and learn how singing, talking and reading with your baby or young child now can help them later in school. There will be workshops for, crafts and games for kids, live entertainment, door prizes, face painting, complimentary lunch, and more!

Apple Gala & Cider Festival
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $12/adult, $10/child
September may mean back to school for many, but at Great Country it means back to the farm for freshly pressed cider and freshly picked apples. Celebrate the start of the apple picking and cider pressing season with tastings of Rinkers freshly pressed cider — touted as the best in the Valley! — demos, picking, donuts, and more. Of course, the farm’s five-acre play area will be open for fun and amusement, too. Enjoy it all every weekend through September.

Adams Morgan Day
Where: Along 18th Street & Columbia Ave NW
When: Sunday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate one of the city’s most diverse communities at the 38th Annual Adams Morgan Day, offering a day full of music, art, culture, dancing, and more. The family-friendly celebration will have activities for all ages, including free crafts for kids and adults, the Make Fix Anything Project, bike demos, live entertainment, and tons more. More details and the schedule of performances are available on the website.

Rainbow Families Picnic
Where: Hillwood Estate
When: Sunday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: $5/adult, free for under 18
Connect with LGBT families and enjoy Hillwood’s urban oasis at this family celebration. Pack a picnic or purchase food from the café’s express menu, play lawn games, get faces painted, try on costumes, make a craft, explore the exhibitions, and more!

Falls Church Feeds the World
Where: Christ Crossman UMC
When: Sunday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Honor the memory of those impacted by the events of 9/11 through service at Christ Crossman’s Falls Church Feeds the World event. Volunteers (ages 4+) are needed to assist in assembling 30,000 healthy meals that will be packed and shipped around the world through Stop Hunger Now. During the meal packaging event, there will be a children’s festival outside, which includes games teaching children about food insecurity, and opportunities for service projects (ages 3+).

September 11: Reflections from the Smithsonian
Where: National Museum of American History
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
To observe the 15th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the American History Museum will display 35 objects from New York, the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA, including airplane fragments, a World Trade Center stairwell sign and a Pentagon clock that stopped upon impact. Visitors can meet Robin Murphy, the inventor of a rescue robot used at Ground Zero and see a screening of the Smithsonian Channel’s award-winning documentary, “9/11: Stories in Fragments,” based on the museum collections and featuring the perspectives of victims, witnesses, ordinary people and heroes from that fateful day.