Tag Archives: Thanksgiving Weekend

November 24, 2022 · 7:55 am

The Weekend Round-Up:
November 25-27

The beloved holiday season train display is back at the Botanic Garden

At this time of giving thanks, I have to say a huge THANK YOU to the KFDC community. Whether you’re a longtime reader or just discovered my blog, follow regularly or just stop by from time to time, I am so grateful for all of you — your interest and support. I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for your curiosity, desire for quality family time, and enthusiasm for new adventures around our beloved city. Happy Thanksgiving! And, as always…

Happy Weekend!

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

Thanksgiving Day Play
Where: Around the Dc area
When: Thursday (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
How about a side of recreation to go with your Thanksgiving meal? If you’re looking for pre- or post-feast activities, this post suggests some ways to complement the main event of the day.

#OptOutside
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This initiative started by REI a few years ago was so good it became one of the most popular hashtags… Skip the Black Friday shopping (or do it off-hours online) and get out to enjoy some family QT outdoors. You’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for adventures in the fresh air. Take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with loads of inspiration for fun in the sun.

Season’s Greenings
Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
What is easily DC’s most popular holiday attraction is back inside the the Botanic Garden this year! The conservatory exhibit features Washington landmarks constructed from plant materials and one of the city’s largest Christmas trees. But the highlight is the garden railway, which never fails to impress and enchant with intricate, imaginative designs. This year it has a farming theme with agricultural scenes fro around the US. Even better (imo), it’s back outdoors in the National Garden! For even more holiday magic at the USBG, see it all twinkle as it stays open until 8pm on Tuesday evenings. Get a glimpse of a past exhibit in this post with scenes from the exhibit. For more on the seasonal favorite, see this post and this one about some of our Season’s Greenings experiences.

Animation Fest
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Friday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Experience the wonderful world of animation in a daylong program for all ages. Pop into a wide variety of films, make animations of your own, and explore the many connections between animation and artistic expression in a special performance with artist Eric Dyer. No registration required, but all events are first come, first served.

Skate Under the Sky — on the National Mall
Where: National Gallery of Art Ice Rink | National Mall, DC
When: Opens Friday (through Mid-March)
Admission: $10/age 13+ , $9/under 13 & seniors
It’s opening weekend for the NGA ice rink. And if there is one quintessential DC ice skating experience, this is it (imo). I mean, you’re gliding at a locale right on the National Mall surrounded by big, fantastic art installations with iconic sights and places nearby. How cool is that? Make a day of it with time on the ice, visit a museum (or two…or more), and stop by the US Botanic Garden to see the delightful Season’s Greenings. And for more area places to skate the day (and night) away, see this post with all the details you need to get gliding.

World Cup Pizza Specials
Where: Pizza Paradiso | Georgetown, DC
When: Friday, 1:30
Admission: The cost of your meal
Pizzeria Paradiso is hosting “Games in the Game Room” for the opening US World Cup games. For $20 get a nine-inch pizza and a draft beer, or take advantage of the $35 “All You Can Eat Pizza” deal that include limitless pizza plus up to 4 select drafts. You can also compete in arcade games, pinball, and more while teams compete. The game room will open 30 minutes before kick-off at 1:30pm as the US vs England game starts at 2pm.

Canstruction
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Friday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $10/adult, $7/child, free/members
See the results of Canstruction, the creative design-build competition that benefits the Capital Area Food Bank as teams from DC architecture and design firms use their skills to build sculptures out of cans of food; this year, it’s based on the theme “Sports: Score One Against Hunger.” The sculptures are all complete, and you can vote for your favorite with the donation of a canned good. Of course, plan to view the exhibits while you’re there!

Small Business Saturday
Where: Around the DC area
When: Saturday
Admission: Free, but plan to buy & support local
If you’re planning to do some holiday shopping this weekend, make a point of going to local, independent stores, both to score great, unique gifts and to support people and places that help make our communities thrive. The KFDC Holiday Gift Guide has all kinds of suggestions for gifts from many local businesses.

Train Ornament Workshop
Where: Home Depot locations around DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Head to Home Depot for their free monthly workshop that welcomes kids to complete a hands-on project, this weekend a train ornament to hang on your holiday tree. All attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. All supplies are provided, including a little apron, and kids get to keep their craft along with a certificate of achievement and collectible pin (while supplies last). Register in advance!

Enchant
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Through January 1
Admission: $29-39/adult, $29/child, free 2 & under
The bedazzling holiday attraction is back at Nationals Park starting this weekend! There was a ton of buzz about it during its inaugural run in 2019, and I thought it was deserving. The sprawling Christmas light maze and market is dazzling and delightful and really captures the spirit of the holidays. Read a KFDC review of it from back then, including tips for visiting (that still apply this year). Purchase tickets here, and note there are some discounts for seniors, military, and EMS.

The Day You Begin
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $20-25
This new musical is based on the bestselling children’s book by author Jacqueline Woodson. The plot: the first day at a new school with diverse new people; the setting: a familiar, yet more vividly modern elementary school classroom. The message? The day you truly “begin” is when you discover what makes you unique, but also the same as people who may seem so different. Read a full review of the show by KFDC Contributor Emily Moise.

Holiday Magic at Gaylord National
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free, though some activities cost extra
The Gaylord National Hotel at National Harbor goes all out during the holidays. The atrium of the resort is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with a spectacular glass Christmas tree, nightly tree lightings, the Potomac Express train offering rides for guests, photo ops with Santa, indoor snowfalls, fountain shows, and more. This year there will also be Ice Bumper Cars, a Snow Factory “Snowball Build & Blast,” The Greatest Story Stage Show, Ice Slides, and of course, the popular ICE! exhibition of A Christmas Story themed ice sculptures.

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through January 8
Admission: $25-39
It’s a new, high-energy musical to rock the holiday season! When clothing suddenly falls from the sky, Wilbur J. Mole Rat stuns the colony with his decision to get dressed! In a community where baring is caring and skin is in, can Wilbur find the courage to rock to the rhythm of his own electric guitar? Based on Mo Willem’s beloved picture book, the show explores what can happen when we have the courage to be ourselves.

Holidays on the Stage
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment to get into the spirit, it’s starting! The Nutcracker at the Warner Theatre is a classic that will enchant audiences of all ages. Or take littles to see a version on strings at The Puppet Co. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre. Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2022 Guide to the Holiday Season.

Holiday Tree Lighting
Where: The Park | CityCenter, DC
When: Saturday, 6pm
Admission: Free
Kick off the holiday season with CityCenter’s annual tree lighting celebration. The 75-foot tree, one of the largest in the city, is decorated with more than 150,000 lights and 4,500 ornaments that will be a brilliant sight when its lit. More festivities face painting and balloon art, sweet and savory treats from CityCenter favorites, and a few surprises will have everyone dreaming of a whimsical snow-filled holiday.

The Queen’s Cartoonists Holiday Hurrah!
Where: George Mason University Center for the Arts
When: Sunday, 4-6 PM
Admission: Tickets
The Queen’s Cartoonists perform music from cartoons! Pulling from over 100 years of animation, TQC’s performances are perfectly synchronized to the films projected on stage. The band matches the energy of the cartoons, leading the audience through a world of virtuosic musicianship, multi-instrumental mayhem, and comedy. The Holiday Hurrah will feature a vocalist and plenty of silliness.

Fallin’
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
There’s still some autumn splendor left to enjoy. With pleasant temps and foliage still brightening the landscape, this weekend will be a good time to relish in the season. This post has recommendations for where to savor it around the area.

Night Lights
Where: Around the DMV
When: Evenings throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. Several parks and gardens in the area have transformed into sparkling wonderlands. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. If you opt for the latter, dress the kids in PJ’s, turn up the holiday tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate — it doesn’t get much cozier than that.

ZooLights
Where: National Zoo | Woodley Park, DC
When: Friday – Sunday, 5-9pm
Admission: Free, but passes are required
Highlighting this beloved light display because it’s back for the first time since Covid. Thousands of environmentally-friendly lights and animal lanterns transform the Zoo into a holiday wonderland in the evenings. There are also live music performances, tasty winter treats. and lots of opportunities for holiday shopping. Note that you must have passes to visit, and whl eit looks like they might be sold out for this weekend, I’m still including this here in case they release more.

Downtown Holiday Market
Where: 8th & F Streets NW | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through December 23, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
The DC holiday market (to me, anyway) begins today. It’s a bit different this year as new safety measures are implemented, but the few blocks in the middle of Penn Quarter will still transform into a charming open air market with a great variety of art and wares for sale, treats to savor, and entertainment — though that last part will be presented on video screens instead of live on stage.

The Inside Scoop
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
If you’re specifically seeking indoor fun or just want ideas for extra activities, there are plenty of options for things to do inside. This post has over 100 suggestions. Some specific recs for this weekend: Explore the STEAM inspired exhibits at the National Children’s Museum, wander among the works at the National Gallery of Art, scale the colorful walls at ClimbZone, go bowling and enjoy a family meal at Pinstripes.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Now that we’ve hit Thanksgiving, the holiday season is really in full swing, so be sure to keep the KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season handy to help make the time merry and bright.
* Chess, anyone? Magnus Chess Academy, which runs chess programs for kids, has a special Cyber Monday offer going on now through November 29!
* There’s going to be a new immersive light display here…learn more about the area’s first Winter Lantern Festival!
* A great (long) list of holiday movies to watch with kids.
* NPR’s 2022 Books We Love.
* Anthro’s Black Friday Sale is so good: 30% off regular priced items, 50% off sale. (Just bought and wore this… it’s so pretty and comfy, but still a little bit sexy with that neckline, and will work for lots of occasions and seasons.)
* At Hanna Andersson, get 50% off sitewide + extra 20% off clearance + free shipping!
* J. Crew is offering a whopping 50% off purchases. (FYI, the kids crewcuts section is adorable.)
* Nordstrom has tons of great deals, too.
* Ha, I remember this phase.
* How awesome is this?
* Happy Thanksgiving! 🙂

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Filed under 2022, DC, Fall, Holidays, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as Activities with kids in Maryland, Best Activities with Kids in DC, DC Area Outdoor Activities, DC Kids Activities, DC Spring Break, DC Weekend Activities, DC Weekend November 25-26, DC with kids, Fall 2022, Family Friendly Things to Do in DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Kid Friendly Activities in DC, Kid Friendly Things to do Northern Virginia, November 2022, Thanksgiving Weekend, Things to do this Saturday & Sunday, Things to Do with Kids This Weekend, Weekend Fun in DC, What to Do in DC with Kids this Weekend

November 23, 2018 · 8:09 am

The Weekend Round-Up: November 23-25

‘Tis officially the season in DC!

Happy Weekend!

Season’s Greenings
Where: U.S. Botanic Garden | National Mall area, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Easily one of DC’s most popular holiday attractions, Season’s Greenings is an annual delight for all ages. The conservatory exhibit features Washington landmarks constructed from plant materials, including a new botanical inspired National Museum of African American History & Culture. But the highlight, hands-down, is the garden railway, which never fails to impress and enchant with intricate, imaginative designs. This year’s Roadside Attractions-themed exhibit is as pretty and whimsical as it is impressive. Get a glimpse of it before you go in this new post!

Native American Heritage Day: Family Fun & Giving Thanks
Where: American Indian Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Friday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
This celebration of Native American Heritage Day features hands-on activities, “make-and-takes,” and music and interactive dance presentations. See the website for the day’s schedule. Most will take place in the Potomac Atrium, and the ImagiNATIONS activities center on the 3rd level is always fulls of interactive fun and learning for kids.

CANstruction
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Friday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $10/adult, $7/child, free/members
View the results of CANstruction, a creative design-build competition that benefits the Capital Area Food Bank as teams from DC architecture and design firms use their skills to build sculptures out of cans of food. You can vote for your favorite with the donation of a canned good. Museum hours are 10am – 5pm. PS: It’s “buy one get one free” admission for the day with the canned good donation! Of course, while you’re there, tour the rest of the exhibits, especially PLAY WORK BUILD for kids!

#OptOutside
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission:Varies by Locale
I love this initiative started by REI. Skip the shopping (or do it off hours online) and get out to enjoy some family QT outdoors. You’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for adventures in the fresh air. Take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, visit animals, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with tons of inspiration for fun in the sun. Be sure to bundle up — it’s going to be cooold.

Thankszipping
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $29-56
After all of that turkey, what’s better than a climb in the trees? Bring out-of-town relatives or just the fam to the Adventure Park for a day of navigating the ropes courses. There are 13 trails, 29 zip lines, 6 difficulty levels, and almost 200 challenge bridges — something for everyone! Thankszipping is officially Friday, but they’re open Saturday and Sunday, too. Read about one of our past experiences at the Adventure Park.

Light Up Old Town
Where: Market Square | Old Town Alexandria, VA
When: Friday, 6-8pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Alexandria’s official start to the holiday season in Old Town’s Market Square this evening. Along with the tree lighting, entertainment will include a visit from Santa, musical performances, plus caroling and a community sing-a-long.

Light Up Downtown DC
Where: CityCenterDC | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, 6pm
Admission: Free
CityCenterDC will kick off the holiday season with an exciting evening of celebrations! You’ll be treated to a joyful music performance by The Washington Chorus and an official lighting ceremony and countdown emceed by NBC4’s Eun Yang. Families will be entertained with balloon artists, face painters, holiday activities, and more. Enjoy the dazzling 75 foot holiday tree, two resident 25-foot reindeer, and the return of our Palmer Alley overhead holiday display!

Night Lights
Where: Around the DMV
When: Evenings throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. The popular and free ZooLights begins this weekend (FYI: the DC Circulator is offering special weekend shuttle service to ZooLights from the Woodley Park Metro for just $1/ride! Several parks and gardens in the area have also transformed into a sparkling wonderlands. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. If you opt for the latter, dress the kids in PJ’s, turn up the holiday tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate — it doesn’t get much cozier than that. Find out where to see the lights in the holiday guide.

Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Where: Mount Vernon Estate, VA
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: $25/age 12+, $17/ages 6-11, free/5 & under
Enjoy a festive evening at George Washington’s old digs. Take a guided, lantern-lit tour of the historic estate. Inside the Mansion, Martha Washington and other Mount Vernon residents will welcome you into their home and share stories of past Christmases. After the tour, there will be 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel.

Small Business Saturday
Where: Around the DMV
When: Saturday!
Admission: Free, but plan to buy & support local
If you’re planning to do some holiday shopping this weekend, make a point of going to local, independent stores, both to score great, unique gifts and to support people and places that help make our communities thrive.

Show Time
Where: Venues around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Get the holiday fun started with Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre
*Little ones can find out How to Catch a Star at the Kennedy Center
* See a fairytale come to life with Cinderella at Imagination Stage
* The Nutcracker opens at The Puppet Co., and Nutcracker Fantasy is the featured Tiny Tots show all weekend
* Spend Saturday morning with The Great Zucchini at Jammin Java
* Enjoy a performance of Billy Elliot: The Musical at Signature Theatre
* Anything Goes is on the Arena Stage
* Anastasia is enchanting audiences at the Kennedy Center

Sensory Friendly Screening
Where: Regal Rockville Center Stadium | Rockville, MD
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $6.50
Catch a Sensory-Friendly Screening of Ralph Breaks the Internet on Saturday morning. The newest My Way Matinee from Regal gives everyone the opportunity to experience a movie once a month with the sound turned down and the lights turned up. Watch the trailer for the movie here.

Portrait Stories & Discoveries
Where: National Portrait Gallery | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Drop in at the Portrait Gallery to listen to a story and create art inspired by someone in the collection — this weekend features Chief Joseph. When you’re done there, pick up a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum (and the American Art Museum housed in the same building). For more about the program and gallery, see this post about a past experience and this one with scenes from a more recent visit.

Weekend Walk-In: Crazy Crown
Where: American Visionary At Museum | Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: $5
Join the museum for this month’s Weekend Walk-in, a hands-on, drop-in, art-making workshop in the AVAM classroom! During this session, create a custom royal headpiece just for YOU using shiny tape, faux flowers & more — because everyone needs a crown. Supplies & boundless inspiration provided. Read more about the wonderful American Visionary Art Museum here.

Watch the Wizards
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 8pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Wizards are playing on home court on Saturday evening. See them work their magic on the New Orleans Pelicans. Plan on dinner in Penn Quarter before — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Camine’s, Oyamel, Shake Shack, and Pi Pizzeria.

Holidays on the Stage
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment to get into the spirit, it’s starting! Several productions of The Nutcracker will enchant audiences of all ages this weekend. Have some holiday fun at Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre or Elf the Musical at Olney Theatre. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre. Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2018 Guide to the Holiday Season.

More Holiday Happenings
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This weekend is the start of even more big holiday events around DC and the continuation of others. If you hope to hit ‘em all during the season, you should get going now. For the complete rundown on all the area’s holiday happenings, see the 2018 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season in DC.

Downtown Holiday Market
Where: 8th & F Streets NW | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through December 23, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
This, to me, is the holiday market in DC, and it opens for the season on Friday. It’s not even so much about the merchandise for sale (though there’s always a great variety of gift items — I never leave empty handed). There’s something about the usually bustling block in the middle of Penn Quarter transforming into an open air market for a few weeks that is so charming and kind of magical, making our big city feel like a small town. A bonus is the free live entertainment along with treats and coffee drinks available for purchase. And after you’ve done your shopping and enjoyed a snack and music, you can pop into the National Portrait Gallery/American Art Museum that are literally right next to the market.

Get Your Skate On
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
It’s ice skating season, and just about all outdoor rinks (and indoor, too) around the area are welcoming folks to glide the day — and night — away! Enjoy art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; circle the rink with costumed characters at Washington Harbor on Saturday morning or Rock n Skate at night; glide over the Anacostia at The Wharf; or do some holiday shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Veteran’s Plaza, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on alfresco (and indoor) ice skating options in the area.

Insider Info
Where: Around the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by locale
If you’d prefer to spend the day indoors because of weather, or you just want more options for activities around town, this list has over 100 suggestions for things to do!

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***
* This New York Times article has good suggestions for helping victims of the California wildfires.
* Elena Ferrante’s novel, My Brilliant Friend, has been made into a series on HBO, and the first episode did not disappoint. (The rest is getting rave reviews, too!)
* Milk Bar makes the best birthday cake.
* Stitch Fix now serves kids! And would make a great gift idea for little fashionistas. (Disclosure: That’s my referral link.)
* Perhaps, like me, this will help with your reading list for 2019.

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Filed under 2018, All ages, DC, Fall, Free, Maryland, Seasonal, Special Event, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as Autumn in DC 2018, Best Ideas for Activities with Kids in Washington DC, DC Adventures, DC Kids Activities, DC outdoors, DC Summer Activities, DC Weekday Activities with Kids, DC with kids, DMV Children, Fall 2018, Family Fun, Family fun in DC, Free Things to do in Washington DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Fun with Kids in Maryland, Fun with Kids in Northern Virginia, Kid Friendly Adventures in DC, Kid Friendly DC, November 2018, Thanksgiving Weekend, Veterans Day Weekend, Weekend November 24-25

November 23, 2017 · 3:37 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: November 24-26

With the big feast behind you, it’s time to get out and take advantage of the long weekend. Embrace the holiday spirit at a seasonal event. Enjoy an outdoor adventure. Have some CANned fun. Skate under the sun or stars. Keep the kids entertained at the theatre. And much more. Happy Weekend!

#OptOutside
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission:Varies by Locale
I love this initiative started by REI. Skip the shopping (or do it off hours online) and get out to enjoy the sublime autumn weather and some family QT outdoors! You’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for adventures in the fresh air. Bundle up and take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, visit animals, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with tons of inspiration for fun in the sun.

Post-Thanksgiving Puppets
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Library of Congress to for their 5th Annual Puppet Show post-Thanksgiving. Inspired by the stories of Ashley Bryan, shows will take place at 11am and 1:15pm in the Whittall Pavilion, with puppet-making crafts following them in the Young Readers Center. Read more about the Library of Congress in this KFDC post.

Thankszipping
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission:
After all of that turkey, what’s better than a climb? Bring out-of-town relatives or just the fam to the Park for a day in the trees. And on Friday, you can avoid the crowds in the shops and get 20% off of merchandise from their store!. Read about past KFDC experiences at the Adventure Park.

Night Lights
Where: Around the DMV
When: Evenings
Admission: Varies by locale
Twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. Visit one of several parks or gardens (or the Zoo!) in the area that has transformed into a sparkling wonderland. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. If you opt for the latter, dress the kids in PJ’s, turn up the holiday tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate — it doesn’t get much cozier than that.

Small Business Saturday
Where: Around the DMV
When: Saturday!
Admission: Free, but plan to buy & support local!
If you’re planning to do some holiday shopping this weekend, make a point of going to local, independent stores, both to score great, unique gifts and to support people and places that help make our communities thrive. Here are some local recs from Washingtonian, and a few of my neighborhood faves for gifts: East City Bookshop, Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, Hill’s Kitchen, and the many local vendors at Eastern Market.

Show Time
Where: Theatres around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
* Enjoy a magical evening with the NSO Pops at the Kennedy Center as they perform the score of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets while they film plays on a giant screen
* Get Gobsmacked! by a capella superstars at the Kennedy Center
* Me… Jane: The Dreams & Adventures of Young Jane Goodall is also at the Kennedy Center
* Charlotte’s Web is on the Imagination Stage
* Little ones will enjoy Cajes! Cajes! Cajes! at the Bestheda theatre
* Kids’ fave Annie is at Olney Theatre
* Make it a grown-up night for Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Twelfth Night

Nina Simone: Four Women
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through December 24
Admission: Ticket prices vary
This exceptional show gets a stand out listing here. Powerful and incredibly moving, this portrait of songstress Nina Simone takes place during the aftermath of the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. With Simone’s songs of protest woven into the stories of four women fighting for social change, the show strikes a heavy, emotional chord in these times. I’d recommend it for teens (or mature tweens) and up.

Holidays on the Stage
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment to get into the spirit, it’s starting! Several productions of The Nutcracker will enchant audiences of all ages this weekend. Have some holiday fun with Frosty the Snowman at Adventure Theatre. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre. Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2017 Holiday Guide.

Can You CANstruct?
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Complementing AIA DC’s CANstruction event which runs through November 26 in the Great Hall, this Family Afternoon welcomes all to engineer ycan-tastic creations! Design a plan for an original CANstruction piece using paper mosaics. Explore the engineering challenges on display in the Great Hall as you try your hand at building your own 3-dimensional structure. Don’t forget to bring a canned good to vote for your favorite CANstruction!

Family Fun Day
Where: National Museum of the American Indian | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: Free
This unique family celebration of Native American Heritage Day showcases different ways that Native people give thanks. Interactive programs include dancing, games, short children’s films, and storytelling. PS: The signpost from the Standing Rock protest is now on display at the Museum, and it’s pretty cool — you can see it on the 4th floor.

Downtown Holiday Market
Where: 8th & F Strets NW | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through December 23, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
This, to me, is the holiday market in DC. It’s not even so much about the merchandise for sale (though there’s always a great variety of gift items — I never leave empty handed). There’s something about the usually bustling block in the middle of Penn Quarter transforming into an open air market for a few weeks that is so charming and kind of magical, making our big city feel like a small town. A bonus is the free live entertainment along with treats and coffee drinks available for purchase. And after you’ve done your shopping and enjoyed a snack and music, you can pop into the National Portrait Gallery/American Art Museum that are literally right next to the market.

Dueling Pianos, Kiddie-Style
Where: Bobby McKeys | National Harbor, MD
When: Saturday, 1pm
Admission: Starts at $18
The whole family can enjoy an afternoon of fun at one of Bobby McKey’s dueling piano shows. It’s two hours of all-request live music paired with a lunch buffet, that’s sure to make everyone happy. And this is a performance where kids are encouraged to wiggle in their seats and dance in the aisles! Plan on more holiday fun at National Harbor while you’re there.

Drag Story Hour
Where: Edlavitch DCJCC | Downtown DC
When: Sunday, 10:30-11:30am
Admission: Free
Bring kids to the library at the Edlavitch DCJCC when Mrs. Kasha Davis of Rupaul’s Drag Race shows up for a reading of children’s stories that focus on diversity, inclusion, love, and acceptance. Drag storytime fun for kids of all ages!

Get Your Skate On
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
It’s ice skating season, and just about all outdoor rinks (and indoor, too) around the area are welcoming folks to glide the day — and night — away! Enjoy art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; circle the rink with costumed characters at Washington Harbour on Saturday morning or Rock n Skate at night; meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park; or do some holiday shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Veteran’s Plaza, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on alfresco (and indoor) ice skating options in the area. And note Washington Harbor is hosting Cartoon Skate on Saturday morning!

Insider Info
Where: Around the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by locale
If you’d prefer to spend the day indoors, or just want more options for activities around town, this post lists more than 90 suggestions for things to do!

**PLAN AHEAD**
Around the World in 80 days
Where: Arena Stage – Kogod Theater | Southwest DC
When: January 6, 2018, 2pm & 5pm
Tickets: $15-30
No one thinks Phileas Fogg can do it.
He believes he can achieve the unthinkable, setting out on a hilarious race against time!
Told through songs from the American songbook, this world premiere from The American Pops revisits Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days — a musical adventure for all ages.

***MORE GOOD STUFF TO KNOW***
* DC Way is kicking off a new futsal program in December and will have evem more indoor soccer prorgams for kids all winter!
* There are many great volunteer opportunities with kids around DC during holiday season — and any time of year, for that matter.
* This photo took my breath away…and led me to check out Global Guardian Project, which is launching a digital magazine subscription especially for kids!
* DC Diaper Bank is hosting a Baby Gear Drive on December 2 in Arlington. If you have gently used or new items to pass on, consider donating them to this wonderful organization!

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Filed under 2017, All ages, Annual, Art, Date Night, DC, Eats, Educational, Exhibit, Fall, Free, Holidays, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Seasonal, Shop, Story Time, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as 2017 Holiday Season, Best Kids Activities in DC, Children's Activities in DC, DC Children's Theatre, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Fall 2017, Family Activities DC, Family Friendly DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Fun with Kids in Maryland, Fun with Kids in Northern Virginia, Kid Friendly Activities, Kids Entertainment in DC, Thanksgiving Weekend, Things to do with Kids in DC, Washington DC Events, Weekend November 25-26

November 25, 2016 · 10:32 am

The Weekend Round-Up: November 25-27

See model trains zip around National Parks and Historic Sites at the U.S. Botanic Garden

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! With the big feast behind you, it’s time to get out and take advantage of the long weekend. Embrace the holiday spirit at a seasonal event. Keep the brood entertained at a theatre — there are several live shows on local stages. Enjoy extended hours at the museums. Enjoy an outdoor adventure. Or find a place to hang in the great indoors. I, for one, am thankful for all these great options the DC-Metro has to offer. Happy Weekend!

#OptOutside
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission:Varies by Locale
Take a cue from REI and get outside! You’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for adventures in the fresh air. Bundle up and take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, visit animals, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with tons of ideas for outdoor fun.

Post-Thanksgiving Puppets
Where: Library of Congress
When: Friday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Library of Congress to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Beatrix Potter at their annual day-after-Thanksgiving Puppet Show. The 40-minute performance will be an original production based on three of her famous stories, “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” “The Tale of Benjamin Bunny,” and “the Tailor of Gloucester.” Showtimes are at 10:30am and 1:30pm with puppet-making crafts all day. This will take place in the Young Readers Center Room G-29.

Nights at the Museums
Where: American History and Air & Space Museums
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free
If you’re making the rounds at the museums on the National Mall, save Natural History, American History, and Air & Space for last. The three Smithsonian favorites will have extended hours this weekend, open until 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday. (And FYI: The American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery in Penn Quarter are always open until 7pm.)

Season’s Greenings
Where: US Botanic Garden
When: Through the weekend
Admission: Free
Easily one of DC’s most popular holiday attractions, Season’s Greenings is an annual delight for all ages. The conservatory exhibit features Washington landmarks constructed from plant materials, and the West Gallery boasts one of the city’s largest Christmas trees. But the highlight, hands-down, is the garden railway, which never fails to impress and enchant with intricate, imaginative designs. This year’s National Parks and Historic Places-themed exhibit is a gorgeous as it is impressive. Get a better idea and a glimpse of what to expect in this post and this one about some of our past Season’s Greenings experiences.

Northwest Coast Dance Celebration
Where: National Museum of American Indian
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free
Performances at the at the NMAI are always festive and engaging, and this one is sure to follow suit. Experience a dance celebration with internationally renowned West Coast First Nations mask-dancing group Git Hayetsk (People of the Copper Shield) from Vancouver B.C. and the award-winning multi-generational Tsimshian dancers Lepquinm Gumilgit Gagoadim (Our Own Dance in Our Hearts) from Southeast Alaska. The program will include humor and theatrical dance to teach about Indigenous lifeways of the Northwest Coast.

CANstruction
Where: National Building Museum
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
Check out sculptures built entirely with cans of food! The works are the results of a creativedesign-build competition that benefits the Capital Area Food Bank. Teams from architecture and design firms from Washington, DC used their skills to construct the sculptures, which are on display for all to view through the weekend. After the de-canstruction, the nutritious shelf-stable food will be donated to for distribution to those in need after the event.

Must-See Modern Art
Where: Hirshhorn Museum
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The Ragnar Kjartansson exhibit at the Hirshhorn is a must-see for modern art fans. The mix of performance art, video installations, paintings, dioramas, and more inspired works is intriguing and moving and unlike anything I’ve seen before. Kids will be just as captivated as adults (though if that’s not the case for you, there’s always the carousel right outside on the Mall).

Christmas on the Potomac
Where: National Harbor
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Gaylord National Resort’s annual holiday extravaganza has festivities galore that capture the spirit of the season. And the best part is that there are activities for all ages at varying price points (even free!), from dancing fountains and indoor snowfalls to a tour of amazing “Christmas Around the World”-themed ice sculptures.

Light Up Old Town
Where: Market Square in Old Town Alexandria
When: Friday, 6-8pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Alexandria’s official start to the holiday season in Old Town’s Market Square this evening. Along with the tree lighting, entertainment will include a visit from Santa, musical performances, plus caroling and a community sing-a-long.

More Holiday Happenings
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This weekend is the start of even more big holiday events around DC and the continuation of others. If you hope to hit ‘em all during the season, you should get going now. For the complete rundown on all the area’s holiday happenings, see the 2016 KFDC Holiday Guide.

A Spin on the Carousel
Where: Arena Stage
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Tickets start at $64
The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, Carousel, recently opened at Arena Stage, and it is wonderful! Owen and I saw the musical last week, and we were both completely captivated and moved by the show. Brilliant performances by the talented cast, a simple yet beautiful theatre-in-the-round-setting, and a story that is emotional and hopeful make for a an excellent theatre experience. I recommend it for ages 10 and up, or make it a date night.

The Secret Garden
Where: Sidney Harman Hall
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Tickets start at $44
Shakespeare Theatre Company brings the beloved children’s story to life on stage in a beautiful, enchanting production. When orphaned, 10-year-old Mary Lennox moves to England to stay with her uncle, she seeks refuge in her late aunt’s mysterious walled garden and discovers amazing secrets. It’s a show that kids and adults can enjoy, though the long running time (2.5 hours with intermission) and serious tone could make some some children antsy.

Holidays on the Stage
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment, there’s plenty of that, too. Enjoy the ultimate holiday classic The Nutcracker performed by the Washington Ballet at THEARC or catch a tot-friendly version at The Puppet Co. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre or see Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at Imagination Stage. Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up in the 2016 Holiday Guide.

Downtown Holiday Market
Where: 8th & F Strets, NW
When: Through December 23, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
This, to me, is the holiday market in DC. It’s not even so much about the merchandise for sale (though there’s always a great variety of gift items — I never leave empty handed). There’s something about the usually bustling block in the middle of Penn Quarter transforming into an open air market for a few weeks that is so charming and kind of magical, making our big city feel like a small town. A bonus is the free live entertainment along with treats and coffee drinks available for purchase. And after you’ve done your shopping and enjoyed a snack and music, you can pop into the National Portrait Gallery/American Art Museum that are literally right next to the market.

Night Lights
Where: Around the area
When: Evenings
Admission: Varies by locale
Twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. Visit one of several parks or gardens (or the Zoo!) in the area that has transformed into a sparkling wonderland. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. If you opt for the latter, dress the kids in PJ’s, turn up the holiday tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate — it doesn’t get much cozier than that

Winter Festival
Where: Ticonderoga Farms
When: Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $9.95/person, free for children under 2
The annual festival includes hayrides to the white pine fields with access to all of the farm attractions — swings, forts, slides, tunnels, and more. Fire pits are inviting to keep you warm and make some s’mores or roast hot dogs. Cut down your Christmas tree while you’re there or buy one from the lot. Read more about the Festival in this post about one of our experiences there.

Kids Day at Bobby McKeys
Where: Bobby McKeys at National Harbor
When: Saturday, 1pm
Admission: Starts at $18
The whole family can enjoy an afternoon of fun at one of Bobby McKey’s dueling piano shows. It’s two hours of all-request live music paired with a lunch buffet, that’s sure to make everyone happy. And this is a performance where kids are encouraged to wiggle in their seats and dance in the aisles!

The Inside Scoop
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by locale
If you’d prefer to spend the day indoors, or just want more options for activities around town, this post list more than 80 suggestions for things to do.