Tag Archives: Strawberry Picking DC

June 5, 2015 · 7:23 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 5-7

Strawberry picking, a seasonal fave

There’s a lot to celebrate this first weekend of June, with big annual events showcasing everything from local communities to children and the arts to trucks to trails to jazz to green living. Or, just revel in the days off from the grind with a seasonal activity or one of many possibilities for family fun. Happy Weekend!

Summer Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Free concerts al fresco, outdoor swimming, movies under the stars, sprayground fun, and much more! Activities exclusive to the season can be enjoyed all around the area, several taking place on Friday evening – a perfect way to kick off the weekend. The Summer 2015 guide has the whole scoop on all of them.

Celebrate Fairfax
Where: Fairfax County Government Center
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Admission: $12/adult, $5/youth, free for 2 and under
The annual Celebrate Fairfax! Festival has something for everyone — live music (Kongos, Three Doors Down, and The Outlaws among the performers), carnival rides, children’s activities, art, food vendors, and much more to keep guests entertained throughout the weekend. For more details, along with the full musical line-up, see the Celebrate Fairfax website.

Friday Night Drive-In
Where: Union Market
When: Friday 8-10pm
Admission: $10/car
Union Market is bringing back their Drive-In series through the month of June, with a “Flashback Fridays” theme that salutes the ‘80s and ‘90s decades. Jurassic Park is on the big screen tonight — your brood can view it from the comfort of your car in the UM parking lot. Get there as early as 6pm, and the film starts at 8pm.

Keep on Truckin’
Where: RFK Lot 7
When: Saturday, 8am – 1pm
Admission: Free
The Truck Touch event that easily takes the title as Mac Daddy of them all is happening this Saturday for its 8th year. The DC Department of Public Works welcomes guests to climb aboard and explore all kinds of cool vehicles that are used to clean and repair streets, change traffic lights, collect refuse, clear snow, provide emergency services, administer mobile health care, and more. There will also be opportunities to test ride Segways, test drive hybrid and electric cars, spec out a helicopter, and sit atop police horses. Read more about it and see images from a past Truck Touch in here (and be sure to note that it was posted a couple of years ago, so the dates don’t confuse you).

Imagination Bethesda
Where: Auburn & Norfolk Avenues
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Bethesda Urban Partnership to celebrate children, art, and all things fun at the 21st annual Imagination Bethesda. Where Woodmont Avenue meets Elm Street, activity tents will line the streets, face painters will bring butterflies and pirates to life, and a stage of live entertainment will have the whole street dancing. Activity details and the entertainment line-up are available on the Imagination Bethesda website.

Nats vs. Cubs
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
It’s a chance to try out the just-posted tips on how to save on a Nats game! Our home team is hosting the Cubs this weekend with an evening game tonight (7:05pm) and afternoon match-ups on Saturday (12:05pm) and Sunday (4:05pm). Stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases when children ages 4-12 can loop the infield after the final out.

It’s Easy Being Green
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Starts at $12/adult, free for 16 and under
The nation’s premier sustainability event is where you will see the best in green. Enjoy loads of exhibits and activities — renowned authors, leaders and educators; great how-to workshops; cutting-edge films; fun activities for kids; organic beer and wine; a green marketplace; and delicious vegetarian cuisine and diverse live music. A Family Fun Pavilion sponsored by DC Department of Parks and Recreation and Savers will feature entertaining and enriching activities, including eco-crafts, yoga, story time, trivia and more (Saturday & Sunday only)! And if you bike there, show your helmet to the box office attendants and receive FREE admission.

Walk the Museum Walk
Where: Throughout Dupont-Kalorama
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Get off the Mall and explore the many museums in the Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood during its 32nd annual Museum Walk Weekend. See the exhibits and enjoy special programs for free at seven diverse museums, including The Phillips Collection, Dumbarton House, Heurich House, and Woodrow Wilson House. If you don’t want to use the shoe leather express, there will be a free shuttle running between sites.

Jazz ‘n’ Families Fun Days
Where: The Phillips Collection
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: Free
Leading up to the DC Jazz Festival starting next week and part of The Phillips Collection’s Museum Walk events, there will be special performances and activities for guests, especially young ones. There will be live jazz throughout the museum, including musicians improvising to paintings in the galleries. Kids can join a scavenger hunt, visit an instrument petting zoo, create their own masterpieces to take home, and enjoy the permanent collection, too.

Celebrate Petworth
Where: 800 block of Upshur Street NW
When: Saturday, 10am – 7pm
Admission: Free
This festival in the heart of the Petworth neighborhood will celebrate creativity, diversity, culture, people, and quality of life, the core components of what make Petworth a vibrant and wonderful place to live. Anchored around four main themes — Art, Music, Food and Healthy Living, and Kids/Family — Celebrate Petworth will bring residents of the community together, not just for the day of the event, but through the creation of new opportunities for collaboration, partnership and engagement amongst residents, businesses, and non-profit organizations. See the schedule of activities here.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Potted Potter, a hilarious show condensing all seven Harry Potter books, is at the Lansburgh Theatre (look for a ticket deal)
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Merlin’s Magic is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* DC-area “kindie” band Here Comes Trouble is celebrating their “Goo on My Shoe” CD release with a show at FNDTN Gallery & Liveroom on Saturday
* Creative Cauldron presents The Little Prince for it’s first weekend of performances
* Spend Saturday morning withThe Great Zucchini at Jammin’ Java

Happy Trails
Where: Around the area
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Saturday is National Trails Day, and you can celebrate by taking part in one of many special events around the area. Take a hike, do some volunteer trail maintenance, go bird watching, and more. Find an event for your family on the National Trails Day website.

Active-Kidz Family Fun Day
Where: Leesburg Premium Outlets
When: Saturday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the beginning of summer with a day of activities for the whole family at the outlets! Shoppers of all ages can enjoy complimentary glitter tattoos and balloon animals, and there will also be a showcase of groups from around the community such as TopKick Martial Arts, Renewal by Andersen, Ha’Penny Montessori School, Sportrock Climbing Center, c3 cyberclub, Loudon Soccer and Patrick Henry College Teen Camps. Plan to stock up on summer wear, too — retailers like Claire’s, Banana Republic, and Under Armour will be offering special discounts all day!

Savage Fest
Where: Historic Savage, Md
When: Saturday, 10am – 6:30pn
Admission: Free
The annual Savage Fest has fostered a sense of community by bringing together over 2,000 Howard County residents each June for a daylong celebration. This 28th year will feature live music from local bands, pony rides, a petting zoo, jugglers, magic shows, local history reenactments and tours, dancing, demonstrations and other entertainment throughout the day. It will also be bigger than ever with over 50 food, craft, retail and information vendors! The event will be held in Historic Savage, MD on Baldwin Common (9035 Baltimore Street, Savage, MD 20763).

Colors of the Caribbean
Where: Strathmore
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
You don’t have to go to the islands to experience the culture of the Caribbean. On Sunday, Strathmore presents a day of free music and dance performances, workshops, artistic presentations, food demonstrations, and hands-on art activities celebrating the vibrant diversity and rich cultural heritage of the 42 countries that comprise the Caribbean Basin. Families are invited to explore the campus and join in the celebration by visiting each staging area for unique experiences and kid-friendly activities that will ignite all the senses with the sounds, sights, and tastes of the Caribbean.

Tenleytown Block Party
Where: Tenley Gastropub Parking Lot
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Friendship Hospital for Animals is celebrating the unveiling of its new 16,345-square -foot renovation with a community block party and special pet adoption event. The Washington Humane Society’s Adopt Force One mobile adoption center will be on-site for pet-lovers looking to bring home a new furry friend. Guests at the family-friendly event will be treated to complimentary carnival-like entertainment including cotton candy and popcorn, a moon bounce and photo booth. And Tenley Sport & Health will offer free Zumba classes throughout the event. Light fare and refreshments will be available for purchase from Tenley Gastropub, the area’s brand-new sports bar. Friendship Hospital for Animals will provide pet treats for all four-legged family members in attendance.

Storytime & Dinner
Where: Temple Shalom, Chevy Chase
When: Sunday, 4:30-6pm
Admission: $5
Embark on an interactive storybook adventure on June 7 at Temple Shalom in Chevy Chase, MD, as we travel across Israel with Hare and Tortoise! This unique event is especially for children ages 0-6 and their families. Hear author Laura Gehl read her book Hare and Tortoise Race Across Israel, then recreate Hare and Tortoise’s journey. Make art in a Tel Aviv museum! Visit the desert! Relax at the Dead Sea! Play soccer in Independence Park in Jerusalem! Buy delicious Israeli foods at the shuk! We recommend a tortoise’s pace for this storybook adventure—you won’t want to miss a thing along the way. Pre-registration is $5 per person (with a max of $20 per family) and includes dinner and a copy of the book for your family.

Take Your Pick
Where: Area Farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Strawberries are ripe and ready for harvest, and many area farms welcome guests to come PYO. However, it’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. Sunscreen and hat also recommended.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Farm, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Park, Seasonal, Sports, Spring, Summer, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Activities, DC Spring, DC Summer 2015, DC with kids, Fun with Kids in Washington DC, Strawberry Picking DC, Things to do with Kids in Maryland, Things to do with kids in Northern Virginia, Washington DC Events, Weekend June 6-7

May 29, 2015 · 8:15 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 29-31

Getting the hoola on at last year’s Tour de Fat

A wacky (& wonderful) celebration of bikes, folk music, summer fun, a wine fest, a pop culture convention, live entertainment, and even more awesome activities are among your options for family fun this weekend. And you can find even more in the big list of Everyday Play. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Outdoor concerts, water fun, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun in DC. Start the weekend with free music this evening at Jazz in the Garden or Rockin’ on the Riverfront, cool off at a public pool or a sprayground during the steamy days, see a family flick outdoors at National Harbor on Sunday night… and so much more. The KFDC 2015 Guide to Summer in DC has the scoop on where and when you can experience the joys of summer.

Tour de Fat
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free
The celebration of all things bicycle is zany in the best way possible. There’s a bicycle parade, bicycle art, reconfigured bicycles to ride, a dance contest to win a bicycle, a car-for-bike swap, a bike-themed kids area, and bikes just…everywhere. There’s also beer! Registration for the parade starts at 10am, then the rest of the festivities kick off at 11am. Costumes encouraged.

Washington Folk Festival
Where: Glen Echo Park
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-7pm
Admission: Free
Get folksy at Glen Echo Park this weekend, as the Washington Folk Festival showcases the diversity of traditional music in Washington. All of the artists hail from the DC area, but cultures from around the nation, as well as the world, will be represented through music, dance, crafts, and stories.

Awesome Con
Where: Washington Convention Center
When: Saturday, 10am – 7pm & Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $15/1-day pass, $25/2-day pass, free for kids 10 and under
This celebration of popular culture is DC’s comic-con, embracing all aspects of geekdom and pop culture. Expect a wide assortment of comic books, collectibles, toys, games, original art, cosplay, a Kids Zone, and appearance from more than fifty movie and television celebrity guests throughout the weekend. Kids will love the chance to draw along with noted comic book artists, attend Superhero University and make Superhero symbols and capes, see a wizard magic show, and participate in a kid’s costume contest and puppetry class.

Vintage Virginia Wine & Food Festival
Where: Bull Run Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $35/adults, $10/kids
A wine fest might sound like a grown-ups-only event, but this one offers plenty of fun for kids, too. Chef demos, food truck fare, live music, and a whole Family Tent with activities especially for children are among the festivities. Of course, there will be plenty of opportunity for wine tasting, too!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Follow the yellow brick road to Adventure Theatre, where The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is in its final weekend
* Take little ones and their stuffed toys to the NSO Teddy Bear Concert, Violins and Trombones and Bears, Oh My! at the Kennedy Center
* The curtains are also about to close on Creative Cauldron’s Once on this Island
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Old MacDonald’s Farm is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre
* Potted Potter, a hilarious show condensing all seven Harry Potter books, opens at the Lansburgh Theatre this weekend (look for a ticket deal)
* Rainbow Rock is playing a CD-Release show at Jammin’ Java on Saturday morning

The Capital Wheel Turns 1!
Where: National Harbor
When: Saturday, 10am – 10pm
Admission: Rides are $15/ages 12 and up, $11.25/child
It’s been one year since The Capital Wheel started spinning, and National Harbor is marking the occasion with a birthday party! Join the celebration that will include a DJ on the plaza, Buzz Bakery cupcakes for the first 500 riders, fun props in the Wheel’s gondolas for photo opps, and Golden Ticket giveaways all day.

DC United vs. Philadelphia Union
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 7pm (parking lot opens at 4pm)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Kick it at a soccer game as the DC United host the Philadelphia Union on Saturday evening. Get there early for activities at the Lot 8 Tailgate, and be sure to stop by section 222 for a variety of kids activities. For some extra goodies just for young fans, join the Kids Club!

Behind-the-Scenes at the Ballpark
Where: Nationals Park
When: Sunday
Admission: $15/adults, $12/children
The Nats might not be playing at home, but you can still have a great day at Nationals Park on a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium. That’s right, you can get access to areas that aren’t open to just anyone at any time. AND you get to go down to the field, sit in the dugouts, and hang out in the Nationals bullpen. Tours are available on most non-game days throughout the season, and when I last checked, tickets were still available for this Sunday! This KFDC post has the full scoop on this treat for any Nats fan.

Sample Spanish Immersion
Where: Creative Acts Learning Center
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Take a fun and interactive class designed to have your child using Spanish immediately. A new series of Spanish classes for kids is starting up on Capitol Hill, and you’re invited to sample one on Saturday. Before and after class interact with like minded parents over refreshments, tour the space, and talk to the instructor about the class. Sessions are introductory and 30 minutes long starting at 9:30am and 10:15am for 3-5 year olds, and 11am and 11:45am for 6-9 year olds. Secure your child’s spot by registering for the class on the website. The Center is located 631-B Pennsylvania Avenue SE on Capitol Hill.

Play with Zip
Where: Beauvoir Outdoors
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
I’m not recommending this because I just wrote about it. The National Cathedral Elementary School’s playground makes this round-up because it’s a fantastic place to take the kids to play. With lots of climbing and sliding structures and spaces for all ages, plus a super fun zipline(!), your whole crew will have a blast there.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The area’s largest U-pick strawberry festival is on for the second and final weekend – rain or shine. Get ready for loads of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the Pumpkin Jumpin’ Pillow, slides, a pedal cart track, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, Cow Train ($2), and animal encounters. Whew!

Go with the Flow
Where: Potomac, Anacostia, & Patuxent Rivers
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by boathouse
Enjoy the weekend on the water, where you can paddle and explore. A bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pontoons. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go, and you can also row from the Ballpark Boathouse next to Yards Park. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also has vessels for rent along with free pontoon boat tours on weekends from 5-5:45. And if you’re up for a bigger excursion, you can rent your own pontoon at Solomons Island.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, Class, DC, Educational, Farm, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Movies, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Play, Seasonal, Sports, Spring, Summer, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

May 22, 2015 · 7:18 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 22-25

It’s spray time!

Whether you seek events that honor those who have served and sacrificed for our nation, are ready to get the summer fun started, or just want to enjoy some quality time with the kids over the holiday weekend, this round-up of family recreation should have you covered. Happy Weekend!

“Summer” in the City
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with an activity exclusive to this time of year. Outdoor public pools, spraygrounds, and water parks open Saturday; music and movies are playing under the stars; the strawberry picking season is underway; and blue crabs are making many a feaster very happy. The KFDC guide to summer in DC has specifics on all of the special events and series that come with the warm months — and a select few are also mentioned below.

Jazz in the Garden
Where: National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
When: Friday, 5-8:30pm
Admission: Free
The popular summer series is kicking off its new season with jazz guitar by Tom Lagana. Enjoy the music along with big, bold works of art in the NGA Sculpture Garden on the Mall. Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner or buy a bite there. Note: Adult drinks are available from the pavilion; BYO alcohol is not permitted.

Rock by the River
Where: The Yards Park
When: Friday, 6:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Kick off the long weekend with free music in the fresh air. Still Surfin’, a Beach Boys tribute, is tonight’s performance. Catch the show along with great views of the Anacostia River from the comfort of a blanket spread out on the grass. Pack a picnic or purchase food there from one of many food trucks or nearby eateries.

Nats vs. Phillies
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are hosting the Phillies this weekend with an evening game tonight (7:05pm) and afternoon match-ups on Saturday (4:05pm) and Sunday (1:35pm). Stay after on Sunday for Kids Run the Bases when children ages 4-12 can loop the infield after the final out.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The area’s largest U-pick strawberry festival is this weekend – and next – rain or shine. Get ready for loads of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the Pumpkin Jumpin’ Pillow, slides, a pedal cart track, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, Cow Train ($2), and animal encounters. Whew!

Smithsonian Big Screens
Where: Natural History Museum, & Udvar-Hazy Center
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Two new IMAX films just opened at the Natural History Museum and National Air & Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. Dinosaurs Alive! will thrill anyone fascinated by the prehistoric beasts, and Tomorrowland will take viewers on a sci-fi adventure with George Clooney. Be sure to make time to tour the exhibits, too – both museums are Smithsonian favorites!

Archaeological Adventures, Indy Style
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $15/adult, $10/ages 5-12, free for 4 and under (look for a ticket deal)
If you opt to check out Indiana Jones & the Adventure of Archaeology at Nat Geo, then you have chosen wisely. Interesting and entertaining, the new exhibit showcases props, video, and fun facts from Indy’s cinematic adventures along with fascinating artifacts and details about real-life archaeological studies and discoveries. Nat Geo recommends it for ages 8-80. If you’ve got really little ones, the Monster Fish exhibit is more their speed and also super fun.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $19.50
Adventure Theatre’s latest production has been getting such rave reviews, they’ve extended its run to May 31. Journey with Dorothy and friends to meet the Wizard and experience some entertaining adventures along the way. Tickets are available online, or you can still try to win a 4-pack through this KFDC giveaway!

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* It’s your last chance to catch a performance of Sinbad: The Untold Tale at Imagination Stage
* The Creative Cauldron brings Once on this Island to the stage again this weekend
* See a show on strings at The Puppet Co. where Cinderella is the current main stage production
* And Clowning Around is the featured Tiny Tots show at the puppet theatre on Saturday

Land of the Free Music
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 6pm
Admission: Free
Every day, the Kennedy Center presents a free performance at 6pm on the Millennium Stage. This weekend, see winners of the VSA International Young Soloists Competition (all musicians ages 14-25 with disabilties), Slovenian accordionist Marko Hatlak, bluegrass band Bud’s Collective, and The Greek Chamber Music Project.

Street Car Show
Where: National Capital Trolley Museum
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: $5/child, $7/adult
Enjoy special programs that recall the role of the transit industry during wartime in observance of Memorial Day. See Tilley the Trolley and Billy the Bus, a wartime production of the Capital Transit Company, and Ten Seconds to Go, a wartime production by Kansas City Public Service. The special exhibit, Homefront Street Cars, will also be on display.

Memorial Day at Abe’s Place
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage
When: Monday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: $15/adult, $5/ages 6-15 for cottage tours; other tours are free
President Lincoln’s Cottage will host an array of activities on Memorial Day to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Family-friendly activities will include guided tours of the first National Cemetery, commemorative ceremonies honoring veterans at multiple locations, picnicking opportunities on the grounds of the Soldiers’ Home, and tours of the Cottage, the seasonal residence of the Lincoln family during the Civil War. Registration is requested. See the website for more information and a schedule of tours and activities.

National Memorial Day Concert
Where: West lawn of the Capitol
When: Sunday, 8-9:30pm, gates open at 5pm (or Saturday for the dress rehearsal)
Admission: Free
Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2015 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday from 8 – 9:30pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna are hosting the event once again, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the U.S. If you’re planning to go, this FAQ page on the concert website is worth a read. If you can’t make Sunday’s show or don’t want to deal with the crowds, Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public — gates open at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm.

Memorials on the Mall
Where: National Mall
When: All Weekend
Admission: Free
Tributes to those who have served our country will take place at the many memorials and monuments on the National Mall throughout the weekend. Times vary, but you can look for schedules on the National Park Service website. The Mall is guaranteed to be crowded, so plan accordingly.

Memorial Day Observance
Where: Arlington National Cemetery
When: Monday, 10:30am
Admission: Free
Observe the holiday at one of the most iconic spots to honor those who have served. A prelude concert by the United States Navy Band will begin in the amphitheater at 10:30am, and a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at 11am followed by an observance program in the amphitheater. Space is limited to standing room only for the wreath-laying ceremony, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the amphitheater. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure access to these events and should plan to be seated no later than 9:30am. Read more about Arlington National Cemetery in this KFDC post.

National Memorial Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th to 17th Streets
When: Monday, 2pm
Admission: Free
The annual National Memorial Day Parade celebrates and honors American veterans with a grand procession through the city. Get a curbside view of military units and vehicles, marching bands, flag teams, and hundreds of veterans as they travel up Constitution Avenue.

Memorial Day Tour
Where: National Museum of Health & Medicine
When: Monday, 1pm
Admission: Free
The museum dedicated to the history of health and medicine is commemorating Memorial Day with a special program. A free, docent-led tour will offer an overview of the museum’s exhibits, with a special emphasis on advances in military medicine from the Civil War to the present. I should warn: Some exhibits at the museum may not be appropriate for very young children or the faint of heart, as this post about one of our experiences there describes (but for many, it is a very fascinating museum).

Strawberry Fields
Where: Area farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
The PYO season is well underway! Many local farms have opened their strawberry patches to the public, so you can get out there and reap the fruits. See this post for a list of area farms where you can gather your own strawberries, several offering much more than just picking.

Find even more ideas for family fun in these popular KFDC posts:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy A Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors

The Weekend Round-Up: May 23-26

The Korean War Memorial on the National Mall

Whether you seek events to observe Memorial Day, are ready to get your summer started, or just want to enjoy some extra quality time with the kids over the long weekend, these ideas for family recreation should have you covered. Happy Weekend! And a sincere thank you to those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Summer in the City
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with an activity exclusive to this time of year. Outdoor public pools, spraygrounds, and water parks open Saturday; music and movies are playing under the stars; the strawberry picking season is underway; and blue crabs are making many a feaster very happy. The new guide to summer in DC has specifics on all of the special events and series that come with the warm months (and a select few are also mentioned below).

Jazz in the Garden
Where: National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
When: Friday, 5:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
The popular summer series is back for its second week this evening. Enjoy blues harmonica by Bruce Ewan along with big, bold works of art in the NGA Sculpture Garden on the Mall. Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner or buy a bite there. Note: Adult drinks are available from the pavilion; BYO alcohol is not permitted.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Admission: $10/child, $12/adult
The largest U-pick strawberry festival is this weekend, rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the Pumpkin Jumpin’ Pillow, slides, a pedal cart track, rope swings mazes, a tractor tire mountain, Cow Train ($2), and animal encounters. Whew!

Sunset Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
When: Saturday & Sunday, 6-9pm
Admission: $18/adults, $12/ages 6-11, free for children 5 and under
Visit Mount Vernon after the daytime crowds have departed for a special Memorial Day weekend celebration. Guests can take evening tours of the Mansion, relax and enjoy wine and desserts available for purchase, and delight in 18th-century music, dancing, games, and wagon rides. Stroll the lantern-lit grounds and immerse yourself in the 18th century as the sun sets on the plantation and costumed residents like the charming Lady Washington and her granddaughter Nelly interact with visitors. This family-friendly event celebrates the beginning of summer on the plantation.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Its the final weekend of The Jungle Book at Adventure Theatre. A special for KFDC readers: use the code “MOWGLI” when you buy your tickets for $2 off!
* It’s also your last chance to catch Cinderella: The Remix at Imagination Stage
* See theatre on strings at The Puppet Co., where Pinocchio is on the main stage and Penguin’s Playground and Teddy Bear’s Picnic are the featured Tiny Tots show.
* Enjoy the NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Two Divas and a Bear! at the Kennedy Center.

Memorial Day at Abe’s Place
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage
When: Monday,
Admission: Tours are $15/adult, $5/child
President Lincoln’s Cottage will host an array of activities on Memorial Day to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Family-friendly activities will include guided tours of the first National Cemetery, commemorative ceremonies honoring veterans at multiple locations, picnicking opportunities on the grounds of the Soldiers’ Home, and tours of the Cottage, the seasonal residence of the Lincoln family during the Civil War. See the website for more information and a schedule of tours and activities.

National Memorial Day Concert
Where: West lawn of the Capitol
When: Sunday, 8-9:30pm, gates open at 5pm (or Saturday for the dress rehearsal)
Admission: Free
Why watch on TV when you can be there in person? The 2013 National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the Capitol on Sunday from 8 – 9:30pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna are hosting the event once again, and an all-star line-up of artists will join the National Symphony Orchestra in honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the U.S. If you’re planning to go, this FAQ page on the concert website is worth a read. If you can’t make Sunday’s show or don’t want to deal with the crowds, Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public — gates open at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm.

Homefront Street Cars
Where: National Capital Trolley Museum
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: $5/child, $7/adult
Recall the role of the transit industry during wartime in observance of Memporial Day. Enjoy Tilley the Trolley and Billy the Bus, a wartime production of the Capital Transit Company, and Ten Seconds to Go, a wartime production of Kansas City Public Service. See the special exhibit, Homefront Street Cars.

Strawberry Fields
Where: Area farms
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
The pick-your-own season is well underway! Many local farms have opened their strawberry patches to the public, so you can get out there and reap the fruits. See this post for a list of area farms where you can gather your own strawberries, several offering much more than just picking.

Find even more ideas for family fun in these popular KFDC posts:
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy A Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids
The Great Indoors

The Weekend Round-Up: June 1-2

Cooling off in the Columbia Heights fountain last summer

If last weekend didn’t feel like the (unofficial) start of summer, this weekend should do the trick. But don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying the special events happening, many of them outdoors. They celebrate everything from music and art to food and wine to local ‘hoods and fun, funky bike culture. There are also museum programs and loads of summer activities to help you keep your cool (water play!) and embrace the season. Happy Weekend!

Walk the Museum Walk
Where: Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood
When: Saturday 10am – 4pm, Sunday 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Get off the Mall and explore the many museums in the Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood during its annual Museum Walk Weekend. See the exhibits and enjoy special programs for free at nine diverse museums, including the Textile Museum, Phillips Collection, Dumbarton House, and Woodrow Wilson House. If you don’t want to use the shoe leather express, there will be a free shuttle running between sites. And note that not all museums will be open both days – see the schedule here.

Imagination Bethesda
Where: Auburn & Norfolk Avenues
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Join the Bethesda Urban Partnership to celebrate children, art, and all things fun at the 18th annual Imagination Bethesda. Where Woodmont Avenue meets Elm Street, activity tents will line the streets, face painters will bring butterflies and pirates to life, and a stage of live entertainment will have the whole street dancing. Activity details, the entertainment line-up, and a video about the event are available on the Imagination Bethesda website.

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the area
When: All Weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Outdoor concerts, water fun, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal fun has begun in DC. From Jazz in the Garden on Friday evenings to Sunday night family movies at the National Harbor to open swim at local pools, this post has the scoop on where and when you can experience the joys of summer.

Explore the Universe Family Day
Where: National Air & Space Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Discover the wonders of space with a day full of activities at the Air & Space Museum. Guests can see shows in the Albert Einstein Planetarium, hear stories about space, discuss telescopes with a Galileo re-enactor, and chat with expert and amateur astronomers. Other hands-on activities around the museum include astronomical art projects and a chance to build tools to help explore the universe. Go here for the complete schedule of activities.

Tour de Fat
Where: Yards Park
When: Saturday, 11am – 7pm
Admission: Free
This big, whimsical bike festival starts with a parade to Yards Park, where attendees can expect a festival jam-packed with entertainment, local vendors, and New Belgium beer (sponsor of the event). Costumes are heartily encouraged. Check-in for the parade is at 10am, and it starts rolling at 11am. The party at Yards Park runs from 12 -5pm. Tour de Fat is said to be family-friendly and welcomes kids. Games, live entertainment, and a dance contest will be part of the fun.

International Friendly
Where: RFK Stadium
When: Saturday, 11:30am & 3pm (Training Sessions) & Sunday, 2:30pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary
The U.S. Mens National team is playing Germany for an international friendly on Sunday at 2:30pm. And not only can you watch the match then, both teams are hosting free public training sessions on Saturday, with Germany at 11:30am and the U.S. at 3pm.

Vintage Virginia Wine & Food Festival
Where: Bull Run Park
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $30/adults, $7/kids
It sounds like a grown-ups-only event, but the Festival offers plenty of family fun, too. Chef demos, food truck fare, live music, and a whole Family Tent with activities especially for kids are among the festivities. Oh, and there will be plenty of opportunity for wine tasting, too.

Beltway BBQ Showdown
Where: Tucker Road Athletic Complex
When: Friday 6-10pm & Saturday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
Cooks from up and down the East Coast will compete in this annual contest. Along with the BBQ fare, there will be lots of fun for the family, including a children’s play area, food vendors, BBQ goods, a great car show, exhibits, and food demos. Tucker Road Athletic Complex is located at 1770 Tucker Road in Fort Washington, Md.

Fiber Arts Festival
Where: Glover Park-Burleith Farmers’ Market
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
The Glover Park-Burleith Farmers’ Market will be hosting the Fiber Arts Festival. This is one of the most popular events of the season and features beautifully hand-crafted yarn and knitted goods. Bring the kids to see live animals (baby goats, chickens, and rabbits). Check out the new tapestry-weaving demonstration. Face painting, hula hooping, live music, and a local food truck are some of the other highlights at the family-friendly market located at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and 34th Street, NW in the parking lot of Hardy Middle School. A complete listing of the event and vendor offerings can be found here.

35th Annual Celebration of Textiles
Where: Textile Museum
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm & Sunday, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
This free, annual two-day festival celebrates all things textile. Enjoy the festival’s offerings in the beautiful S Street gardens. Live sheep shearing (weather permitting), demonstrations by textile guilds from across the region, hands-on art activities for visitors of all ages, and performances of traditional Southeast Asian music and dance are some of the activities available to guests.

May Fair
Where: Turtle Park
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
So, they might have missed May by a day, but the fun at Friendship ‘Turtle’ Park’s annual spring carnival will still be just as hearty. Pony rides, games, face painting, food, and live entertainment are always among kids’ favorite festivities. For more info, see the Turtle Park website.

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
A few children’s show will be at local theatres this weekend: Catch a performance of Big Nate at Adventure Theatre. The Magic Finger & James and the Giant Peach are on the Imagination Stage for the final weekend. See the marionette version of Cinderella or a Tiny Tots show at The Puppet Co. At Jammin’ Java, ¡Uno, Dos, Tres con Andrés! is the 10:30am performance on Saturday and Young Musicians Giving Back is at 2pm.

Taste of Georgetown
Where: Wisconsin & M Streets NW
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Varies
Sample the fare of one of DC’s most popular dining neighborhoods this weekend. Over 25 restaurants will be offering food to taste, featuring nearly fifty delectable dishes, craft beer pairings, live music and an Iron Chef-style competition. Admission is free, and tickets are $5 for one tasting, $20 for five tastings.

Jazz ‘n Family Fun Days
Where: The Phillips Collection
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Leading up to the DC Jazz Festival starting next week and part of The Phillips Collection’s Museum Walk events, there will be special performances and activities for guests, especially young ones. There will be live jazz throughout the museum, including musicians improvising to paintings in the galleries. Kids can create jazz-inspired art to take home, visit the instrument petting zoo, and enjoy the permanent collection, too.

Strawberry Fields
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend
Admission: Varies by farm
Strawberry fields may not be forever on DC-area farms, but they’re still yielding fruit for now. Go harvest your own — this list includes farms with pick-your-own opportunities. And many of the locales offer farm fun beyond that.

Frederick Festival of the Arts
Where: Downtown Frederick
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
The 20th annual Frederick Festival of the Arts is a juried, two-day fine arts festival held the first weekend every June along Carroll Creek Linear Park in downtown Frederick. The event will feature over 110 artists from across the country, two stages of live entertainment, artist demos, children’s activities, food, and much more. Get details on the festival website.

Savage Festival
Where: Historic Savage, Md
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
This 26th annual community festival features a parade at 9am, followed by live music from local bands, pony rides, petting zoo, jugglers, magic shows, local history reenactments and tours, and other entertainment throughout the day until 6 pm. It will also be bigger than ever with over 50 vendors, including jewelry, stained glass, painted gourds, food, and more. The event will be held in Historic Savage, MD on Baldwin Common (9035 Baltimore Street, Savage, MD 20763).