Tag Archives: Washington DC Events

February 6, 2020 · 5:43 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: February 7-9

Happy Weekend!

Wizards vs. Mavericks
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets start at $20 (find deal)
The Wizards are playing at home on Friday night — watch them work some on-court magic against the Dallas Mavericks. Plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Pi Pizzeria.

DIY Valentines
Where: National Postal Museum | Union Station Area, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Homemade love is in the air at the National Postal Museum’s annual Valentine’s Day Card Workshop. We’ve attended this event several times, so I can tell you firsthand it’s love-ly. They’ll have pretty papers and neat Valentine-themed supplies, all you need to bring is your creativity and eagerness for fun! For more about the museum, see this KFDC post.

Family Concert: Symphonic Dancing
Where: Anacostia Playhouse | Anacostia, DC
When: Saturday 10:30-11:30am
Admission: $15/adult, free for kids
This fun, interactive concert will have every family member on their feet! The program explores the expressive, dance-like melodies of William Grant Still’s Danzas de Panama, and Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer and Maple Leaf Rag. Come enjoy this energetic concert for all ages! And stick around after the performance for the Instrument Petting Zoo to meet the musicians and see the instruments up close! The show lasts approximately 40 minutes and is especially recommended for ages 3-7.

African American Pioneers in Aviation and Space
Where: Steve F. Udvar-Hazy Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
Each February, the museum celebrates the significant contributions African Americans have made to flight and space exploration despite the overwhelming obstacles they had to overcome. Head to the Chantilly arm of Air & Space to enjoy presentations, hands-on activities, and stories. Learn about African American astronauts, pilots, and scientists of the past and present and their accomplishments.

Family Day Celebration
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Bring the whole gang to the National Gallery of Art for a Family Day Celebration full of creative adventures. It’s a great winter outing with activities for all ages — sketching, storytelling, art-making, and more. Enjoy them at special stations in front of works of art throughout the museum’s East Building.

Love Note Holder Workshop
Where: Lowe’s locations around the DMV
When: February 8, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
This monthly DIY workshop for kids has a focus on love… love notes, anyway. The project is perfect for holding all your child’s Valentine’s cards and treats. Workshops take 15-30 minutes, and children must be accompanied by parent/guardian. Check-in by 11am. Space is limited, so sign up in advance!

Open Studio: Love in Every Language
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12–4 pm
Admission: Free
Head to the ImaginAsia Studio in the Sackler Gallery for an afternoon all about love and art. Enjoy a digital slideshow of images of love in Asian art, create Valentine’s Day cards using woodblock prints that say “love” in more than a dozen Asian languages, and fold heart-shaped origami. For all ages and adult companions.

Cards & Cookies
Where: Guy Mason Playground | Glover Park, DC
When: Saturday, 1-3pm
Admission: Free
Join Stork Childbirth Education at Guy Mason Playground for a Valentine-making, cookie-decorating extravaganza! Unleash your creativity and bring home Valentines and cookies for your friends and family.

More Events to Love
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Love is in the air — and at places all around DC this weekend! Events and activities to celebrate Valentine’s Day range from arts activities to nature programs to story time. And they’re sure to be especially sweet. This post has the scoop on all of them.

Show Time
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by show
* Zomo the Rabbit: A Hip-Hop Creation Myth opens at Imagination Stage on Saturday
* Watch Rapunzel let down her hair at The Puppet Co. (find discount)
* And really little ones will enjoy Snow Show this Saturday’s Tiny Tots performance there
* See The Big Meow at Theatre on the Run on Saturday
* Make it a date night for Synetic Theatre’s production of Phantom of the Opera

Black History Month: Family Day
Where: Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park | 16501 Norwood Road | Sandy Spring | MD 20860
When: Saturday, 12-3pm
Admission: $5 Children, $7 Adults 
Bring the entire family out to celebrate African American Culture. The event will feature presentations and hands-on activities for children. The event is a family-friendly and takes place inside Woodlawn Manor. Limited tickets sold day of program at the Visitor Center, so online registration is recommended.

More Black History Celebrations
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout February (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are many great events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs (including an entire museum), special events, tours and exhibits, live entertainment, story time sessions, and more will be enlightening and fun for all ages. This post has details on where many are happening this weekend and over the next few weeks.

Gnomes and Fairies Tea Parties
Where: Brookside Gardens | Wheaton, MD
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: $22 
Parent and child can enjoy a sit-down tea, a brief history of tea, delectable treats, and afterwards a fun hands-on craft planting a mini Gnome or Fairy garden in your teacup! Recommended for ages 6+. Please register each participant (adult and child).

Astronomy Festival
Where: Turner Farm Park | Great Falls, VA
When: Saturday, 5:30-7:30pm
Admission: $10
Go on your own journey through the stars at the “Astronomy Festival” at Turner Farm Park. There will be guided stargazing and opportunities to get a close-up look at the stars through a telescope at the roll-top observatory. Join in games and warm yourself by the campfire as you listen to ancient stories about the constellations. Hot chocolate and snacks will be available for purchase.This event is designed for stargazers age three to adult. Weather permitting.

Japan Day
Where: KID Museum | Bethesda, MD
When: Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $12/child + 2 adults (free for members)
In partnership with the Japan Information & Culture Center, the Embassy of Japan, and Table for Two, KID Museum presents Japan Day. Bring your family and enjoy hands-on, maker activities all day long. Build a a communal Zen garden, create a Kendama toy, take part in interactive performances, make your own Japanese rice balls, and much more. Arrive hungry and taste an array selection of Japanese food sold by the popular Fuji Japan food truck!

STORYTIME: We March
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Sunday, 11am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Bring your littlest art lover for an introduction to an artist on view, interactive read aloud, and a hands-on activity. This STORYTIME session explores rights. Look at artworks in Manifesto: Art x Agency and hear the story We March by Shane W. Evans. Then stay, play, and make your own art!

Tu B’Shvat Painting and Planting
Where: Home Depot | Northeast DC
When: Sunday, 1-2pm
Admission: Free
Join Chabad Washington DC at the Home Depot to celebrate Tu B’Shvat, the birthday of the trees, with fun for the whole family. Paint clay planters and fill them with seeds and soil. If you have a favorite vegetable or flower you’d like to plant, Let them know. There will also be Tu B’Shvat activities and foods! Be sure to register in advance to reserve your spot!

Recreation on Ice
Where: Ice rinks around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
Get outside, be active, and have fun ice skating! Enjoy art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; skim over the meandering paths at Canal Park; circle the rink at Washington Harbour; glide over the Potomac at The Wharf, or do some shopping then skate at Pentagon Row, Tyson’s Corner, Veteran’s Plaza, Rockville Town Square, or Reston Town Center. This post has details on alfresco (and indoor) ice skating options in the area.

Take a Hike
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
It looks like mild weather for this weekend — a great time to hit the trail for a hike! Enjoy the beauty of nature in winter, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and savor a sunny day outdoors. This post has a a bunch of recommendations for places to walk in the woods with the kids (and it’s recently been enhanced with photos from some of our walks in the woods).

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Books from Birth, the wonderful program started by DC Councilmember Charles Allen and part of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, that sends District children up to age 5 a free book per month, just celebrated its 4th anniversary.
* Capitol Cider house is hosting 2020 Family Gras, a family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration, in a couple of weeks.
* A really good read about one guy’s experience with therapy.
* And speaking of, this book written by a therapist about her time in therapy was one of the best I read last year.
* The Morning Show on Apple TV got mixed reviews… I fall on the loved it side.
* 43 and 50. Wow.

The Weekend Round-Up: January 31 – February 2

Checking out Mustang Alley at last year’s Washington Auto Show

Happy Weekend!

Celebrate Black History
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout February (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
February is Black History Month, and there are many great events and activities throughout the DC area to celebrate it. Museum programs (including an entire museum), special events, tours and exhibits, live entertainment, story time sessions, and more will be enlightening and fun for all ages. This brand new post has details on where many are happening this weekend and over the next few weeks.

The REACH Winter Lanterns
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Thursday through Sunday evenings
Admission: Free
This special display of Winter Lanterns in recognition of the first winter season at the REACH and the Chinese New Year is wonderful! Around 100 beautiful illuminations include the Chinese Four Symbols and 12 Zodiac Signs, a Panda Grove, Mushroom Garden, Floral Garden, and Jellyfish Lagoon — all crafted by Chinese artisans and made up of 10,000 colored LED lights. Along with the lanterns outside, there are more activities to enjoy indoors — a Beijing Opera make-up demo, panda photo ops, traditional costumes to try on, a calligraphy station, and a paper lantern making workshop are among the hands-on fun for all ages. It starts at 5:30pm every evening, except for Sunday when it begins at 4pm.

Auto Focus
Where: Washington Convention Center | Mt. Vernon Square, DC
When: Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12/adults, $5/ages 6-12, free for 5 and under
The 2020 Washington Auto Show is in its second and final weekend. If there’s any “grown-up” event that is equally fun for all ages, this is it. More than 600 cars and trucks are on display for guests to check out. And especially for kids will be appearances by some of their favorite characters along with the auto-fun. See this post from a couple of years ago and this one from earlier KFDC days years ago for more about the event.

Spy Fest
Where: International Spy Mueum | L’Enfant Plaza, DC
When: Friday, 6-9pm
Admission: $16
Could you be a spy? Now’s your chance to find out! Do you have the savvy to beat a lie-detector? The smarts to break a top secret coded message? The wits to create secret writing? The moves of a Ninja? Families are invited to find out how they measure up at the Museum’s annual Spy Fest. Mini-missions, tradecraft demonstrations by the experts, and the chance to try spy skill challenges will give KidSpy agents and their handlers an insider’s peek into the shadow world of spying—and who knows, there just may be a spy or two in your midst. For ages 5 and up, with one adult required for every five KidSpy agents. Ages 3+ must have a ticket to attend. (PS: We’ve been to this, and it’s super fun!) Read more about the new Spy Museum here.

Mola Family Social
Where: Mola | Mount Pleasant, DC
When: Friday – 4-8pm
Admission: $30/adult, $15/child
Mola, the Mt. Pleasant-based, Michelin Bib Gourmand recognized tapas restaurant will be hosting monthly Family Socials on the last Friday of every month starting this weekend. These events will allow parents to enjoy Mola’s critically-acclaimed culinary offerings, while providing entertainment for the whole family. Attendees will be treated to a tapas buffet, cupcake station, kids’ activities and happy hour drink specials. There are no event fees, and reservations can be made on Resy. Tax and gratuity is extra.

Saturday Morning Music at the National
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, 9:30am & 11am
Tickets: Free
This Saturday’s installment of the National Theatre’s free weekly live entertainment series features Mr. Jon & Carrie Rock & Rhyme — they makes music for kids and their families that inspire fun, laughter, and dancing. Reserve free tickets online or get them day-of, but note they are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis there, and everyone must be in line to receive a ticket.

Chinese New Year Family Celebration
Where: American Art Museum | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Help ring in the Year of the Rat with Chinese ribbon dancing, acrobatic yo-yo performances, and an interactive magic show. Artists from the city of Shenzhen demonstrate ink finger-printing, wood printing, shadow puppets and dough figurines. Check out calligraphy demonstrations by the Confucius Institute at George Washington University, and Chinese paper cuts and good luck envelopes from the Confucius Institute at George Mason University.  Go on an art scavenger hunt, create your own New Year craft, and enjoy delicious treats available for purchase at the Courtyard Café.

The Land of Chocolate
Where: Several locations in the City of Fairfax, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Varies by activity
Leading up to Valentine’s Day, the City of Fairfax presents its annual festival centered around one of the most wonderful things in the world: Chocolate! There will be all kinds of activities for all ages throughout the weekend, both chocolate and non-chocolate themed — tastings, story time, magic & juggling, Valentine making, chocolate challenges, a chocolate caper mock trial, and much more. See the schedule of events for details.

Heart String Art DIY Project
Where: Home Depot locations around the DMV
When: Saturday, 9am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Create a loving memory with your child at this Heart String Art Workshop. As you help your child piece together the symbol of Valentine’s Day, they will develop hands-on skills by sanding, nailing, painting and more. Celebrate the moment as your child makes a unique keepsake. All kids’ workshop attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Register in advance — visit the website to find a store near you offering the class. (And for more Valentine’s Day-inspired events and activities coming up, see this KFDC post.)

Kids Handmade Valentines Workshop
Where: The Paper Source | Various stores in the DMV
When: Saturday, 1-3pm
Admission: $30
Grab your BFF for a workshop that will give you heart eyes! Make 5-6 Valentines for your classmates, friends, and family using your favorite stickers, stamps, washi and more. Buy two seats at the same time and save 10% off each seat. For kids ages 6 and up. Area Paper Source locations are in Georgetown, Bethesda, Alexandria, and Reston. (Note: This also takes place February 5, 2-4pm.)

Maple Sugaring Days
 Where: Brookside Nature Center | Wheaton, MD
 When: Saturday & Sunday 
Admission: $7
 Be a part of the maple sugaring process and help collect the sap from trees, watch as its boiled down into sweet maple syrup, and enjoy a taste! This program takes place every Saturday and Sunday in February at select times. Sessions fill up, so register now!

The United States of Shakespeare
Where: President Lincoln’s Cottage | Petworth, DC
When: Saturday , 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Shake up your Saturday at a workshop with the Folger Shakespeare Library! These programs occurring on the first Saturday of every month encourage families to experience Shakespeare’s language together. This session, act your way through American history using Shakespeare at President Lincoln’s home — the program is on the road as the Folger undergoes some renovations. Register in advance: 10-11am is recommended for ages 4-7, and 11am – 12pm is recommended for ages 7-11.

Kids Room Pop-Up
Where: Willow | Petworth, DC
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
Loyalty Bookstores and Willow are partnering on this Kid’s Room Pop-Up that will open on Saturday. A currently unused space in the back of Willow’s shop in Petworth will become an area especially for children and families, featuring toys, books, and games for sale; space for youth to read and play while parents shop; and ongoing children’s programming — including Loyalty Bookstores’ ever-popular Storytime and Singalong with Bearsong. In addition to the Kid’s Room Pop-Up, Loyalty Bookstores will have books for adults in the front of Willow.

Maker Morning: Color of Love
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Color your February with love. Try out Valentine’s Day activities including writing a love letter inspired by artist Marcel Duchamp’s word play, painting with light, and making a valentine to give to a loved one. Join us for a special kid-led tour of the Hirshhorn’s most loved artworks. Kids and adults of all ages are welcome. Stroller parking is available in the Lobby and on the Lower Level of the Museum.

Creativity Workshop
Where: The Phillips Collection | Dupont Circle, DC
When: Saturday, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Admission: $18/adult & child, $15/members ($5/add person)
Let your creativity soar at the Phillips’ art-making stations geared toward families with children ages 2 to 8. Each station has a different project with art materials, instructions, and artistic inspiration from The Phillips Collection. An art educator is on site to support families who would like guidance. Be sure to sign up in advance as this program often sells out! Read a KFDC write-ups about the art museum here and here.

Crêpe Day: Celebrate La Chandeleur
Where: Hillwood Museum | Upper Northwest, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $18/adult, $12/member, $5/child, free/ under 3
We’re just about midway through winter, and Hillwood is celebrating with their annual  La Chandeleur, also known as Crêpe Day, marking the halfway point between winter and spring. In France, families celebrate by eating crêpes, which are round and golden, like the springtime sun. Hillwood and Alliance Française de Washington invite families to celebrate the holiday in festive French fashion amidst Hillwood’s spectacular gardens, magnificent mansion, and exquisite French treasures. There will also be activities for all ages, with story times and crafts especially for children.

Read Africa Festival
Where: Francis Gregory Library | Anacostia, DC
When: Saturday, 2pm
Admission: Free
Join the library to celebrate 2020’s Read Africa Week, a literary initiative to showcase young people’s literature with realistic depictions of African life. There will be storytelling, crafts, African food, book giveaways, and more. All ages are welcome, but the program is designed with families and young children in mind.

Shows on Strings (and Hands)
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $6-12 (find discount)
Rapunzel is the Main Stage performance at the puppet theater in Glen Echo Park, recommended for children in pre-K and up. And really little ones will enjoy Snow Show, this week’s featured Tiny Tots show, on Sunday at 10am.

Mouse on the Move
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $12
Nellie and Amelia are two adventurous mice ready to explore the world beyond their little mouse-hole. They decide to go to the moon, since it is cat-free and made entirely of delicious, mouth-watering cheese (so they have heard). In this interactive play, the audience becomes part of the story through multi-sensory activities. Join us as we all try to reach beyond the stars. Recommended for ages 1-5.

Lunar New Year & Fashion
Where: Fashion Center at Pentagon City, VA
When: Saturday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
Rng in the year of the rat during the mall’s annual Lunar New Year Celebration. Immerse in traditional Asian history with live entertainment and hands-on activities. Enjoy lion and dragon dances, a Hanfu fashion show, musical performances, and more! In addition, there are more than 170 stores where you can find new fashions for the new year.

Watch the Wizards
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 8pm
Admission: Tickets start at $18
The Wizards are playing at home on Saturday night — watch them work some on-court magic against the Brooklyn Nets. Plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Carmine’s, Jaleo, Pi Pizzeria, Cava Grill, and Shake Shack.

Groundhog Day Celebration
Where: The Fountain in Dupont Circle, DC
When: Sunday, 8:30am
Admission: Free
Potomac Phil, DC’s most famous marmot, will offer weather and political predictions, letting us know whether to expect six more weeks of winter or an early spring. There will be live accordion music, polka dancers, a puppet show, VIP celebrities and more. Meet up in Dupont Circle at the fountain.

Complimentary Community Day
Where: National Museum of Women in the Arts | Downtown, DC
When: Sunday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
The first Sunday of every month is a great opportunity explore the National Museum of Women in the Arts when admission is FREE! Works span the centuries, from the 16th to the present in a variety of mediums, highlighting women artists all over the world. It’s a fantastic mix of art that will appeal all ages — the collection includes bold and quirky designs that little museum-goers will love along with more profound works that big art enthusiasts will appreciate. Plan for a Fierce Women tour, offered 1-2pm or explore the museum on your own.

Cap It
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Sunday, 12:30pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Washington Capitals will be taking over Capital One Arena on Sunday afternoon when they host the Pittsburgh Penguins. If you want to plan on a pre-match brunch in Penn Quarteo, there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. (Same recs as the Wizards game: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Pi Pizzeria.)

Groundhog Day Screening
Where: American History Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Sunday, 3:30pm
Admission: $8.50/child, $10/adult
Celebrate the holiday at a showing of the classic Bill Murray film (one of my al-time favorites!): A cynical TV weatherman finds himself reliving the same day over and over again when he goes on location to the small town of Punxsutawney to film a report about their annual Groundhog Day. His predicament drives him to distraction, until he sees a way of turning the situation to his advantage. Common Sense Media recommends it for ages 11+. My kids have both seen it, and I’d say it even a little younger would be okay, but parents are the best judges of what’s appropriate for their own kids.

The Ins and Outs of DC
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by adventure
Looks like mild weather this weekend, so you may want to get out. Of course, there are always great indoor activities to enjoy, too. These posts that are chock full of evergreen pursuits for either preference:
The Great Indoors
The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

**PLAN AHEAD**
Free Film Screening: Like
Where: Green Hedges School | Vienna, VA
When: February 6
Admission: Free
Green Hedges School in Vienna, VA, will host a free screening of the documentary film Like on Thursday, February 6, at 6pm on the School’s campus. Like is an IndieFlix Original documentary that explores the impact of social media on our lives. The goal of this film is to inspire people of all ages, especially kids, to self-regulate. Open to the public. Children are welcome, although the film is intended for students in grades 4-8. Please RSVP here.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* There’s still time to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a pair of tickets to The King’s Speech at National Theatre.
* Birth Club, founded by two local moms in Old Town, is a space for women who are trying to conceive, are currently pregnant, or who are postpartum (newly or beyond). While it’s geared towards the mental and physical health of women, they offer some family and toddler activities, too.
* I admittedly had to Google “esports” when I learned about this, but The Washington Justice and Overwatch League will play their first DC-based matches this season at The Anthem.
* Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is coming to National Theatre this spring, and ticket discounts are currently available on select seats.
* My favorite part of the Grammy’s. Anyone else remember this from Fame? (Also, Cyndi Lauper 🙌❤️)

The Weekend Round-Up:
January 24-26

The REACH Winter Lanterns are part of the Kennedy Center’s Lunar New Year celebration

Washington Auto Show
Where: Washington Convention Center, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $12/age 13+, $5/age 6-12, free/5 & under
The annual Washington Auto Show revs up this weekend! And if there’s any “grown-up” event that is equally fun for all ages, this is it. The Auto Show is like a Truck Touch, but with automobiles — hundreds of them — on display for guests to check out. Other activities like Ride ‘n Drives and celeb appearances give guests even more to do and see. There will also be fun especially for kids, including a Family Fun Zone and photo ops with some of their favorite characters along with the sweet rides. The show will be in town through February 2. Get a glimpse and an idea of what to expect in KFDC posts about it here and here.

Jurassic Quest
Where: Dulles Expo Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $22-36
Walk through the Cretaceous period, Jurassic Period, and Triassic Period at America’s largest and most realistic dinosaur event and experience fwhat it was like to be among dinosaurs of all kinds. Jurassic Quest has over 80 true-to-life size dinosaurs, from the very small to the gigantic, sky-scraping dinosaurs, each painstakingly replicated in every detail in collaboration with leading paleontologists. There are also attractions and activities of all kinds of dino fans — dig up fossils, do some crafts, explore science stations, ride on the back of a prehistoric beast, and enjoy more dino-themed rides. Guests, big and little, are in for a dino-mite time!

Author Meet & Greet
Where: Loyalty Bookstore | Adams Morgan, DC
When: Friday, 5:30-7:30pm
Admission: Free
Author Thomas Taylor will be at Loyalty Bookstore (827 Upshur St NW) for an event to featuring his book Malamander. The middle grade novel is a quirky, creepy fantasy set in Eerie-on-Sea with a colorful cast of characters in hot pursuit of a sea monster thought to convey a surprising gift. RSVP for this free event!

Chinese New Year Family Day
Where: The Reach | Kennedy Center, DC
When: Saturday, 1:30-4:30pm
Admission: Free
The Kennedy Center’s popular event returns, this time at it’s new extension, The REACH. Help celebrate the lunar new year and ring in the Year of the Rat with free activities for all ages, including arts and crafts, a traditional costume photo booth, zodiac stickers, demonstrations of sugar painting and wood block printing, magic shows, and more. Stay for the evening for the special display of Winter Lanterns in recognition of the first winter season at the REACH — it’s wonderful! And it’s on view through February 2 in case you can’t make it this weekend!

Monster Jam
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $29-110
The world’s largest and most famous monster truck tour featuring the biggest names in monster trucks will thunder its way into DC. Alien Invasion, El Toro Loco, Grave Digger, Max-D, Megalodon, Monster Mutt, Soldier Fortune, and Zombie are among the vehicular beasts you’ll see tearing up the indoor terrain this year.

Kids Pizza Party
Where: Matchbox | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: $32/child (includes round of mimosas for adults!)
Kids can become a real pizza makers at this hands-on pizza making class! Along with making a customized personal pie with Matchbox’s Chef Felipe, participants will get a tour of the kitchen and pizza oven; a chef’s hat, crayons, and coloring page; plus a round of mimosas for the adults. Recommended for ages 5-12. Sign up in advance here.

Sensory Friendly Screening: Doolittle
Where: Regal Rockville Center Stadium | Rockville, MD
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $6.50
Catch a Sensory-Friendly Screening of Doolittle 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.

Art Investigators: Yayoi Kusama
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: Free
The NGA’s wonderful Art Investigators is back with winter sessions. The drop-in program for kids ages 4-7 will explore works by Yahoo Kusama with a a book reading, a look at her work, then an art project that directly relates to it. Sign-in takes place in the East Building Atrium, starting at 10am on Saturday and 11am on Sunday. Be aware that you may not get an early time slot and will have time to fill before your session, so plan accordingly. Read a KFDC review of the series back when it was called Stories in Art (it’s an older post, but still relevant, as the program is very much the same).

Lunar New Year Celebration
Where: Port Discovery | Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm & Sunday, 12-5pm 
Admission: $17.95, free for members
Celebrate the Lunar New Year, one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, with an exciting celebration at Port Discovery Children’s Museum! Visitors of all backgrounds will learn, experience, and participate in traditions surrounding the Lunar New Year celebration. You’ll be mesmerized by the Chinese Lion Dancers of Tai Yim Kung Fu School, who perform the traditional lion dance throughout Port Discovery using a paper mache lion, instruments, and dance that will captivate you! Learn the art of calligraphy and chopsticks with the Xiamen Chinese Sister City, and share your gifts by partaking in the traditional exchange of red envelopes between one generation and the next. Other art projects and programs will take place throughout the weekend. Read a brand new KFDC write-up about Port Discovery!

Winter Blast: A Family Day of Native Games
Where: American Indian Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday,10:30am – 5pm
Admission: Free
This free family-friendly event celebrates Indigenous games from the Arctic to Argentina. Visitors can meet Talibah Begay (Navajo) as she shares a traditional Navajo shoe guessing game. Leihua Stewart (Native Hawaiian) teaches traditional Hawaiian games. Participants can learn to play Bolivian games with Julia Garcia (Aymara). The day features hands-on activities and “make-and-takes.”

Multilingual Education Fair of DC
Where: Roosevelt High School |
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Explore resources by 150 exhibitors covering 18+ languages for learners of all ages, including language classes, apps, books, tutors, assessments, travel abroad programs, university programs, dual language programs, after school programs, daycares, language and culture organizations, embassies and multilingual recruiters. Bonus: Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Fellow rapper and poet Omar Offendum will be performing! See the full program here and book your FREE tickets here. Roosevelt High School is located at 4301 13th Street NW.

Rapunzel
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Tickets: $12 (find discount)
A “bewitching” tale by Duane T. Bowers, adapted from the Brothers Grimm fairytale. Witch Wartsmith wants a baby, and after bargaining for little Rapunzel, must go to great lengths to keep her out of the hands of a handsome prince. The Puppet Co. uses “coloring- book” charm and the simplicity of hand puppets in a production designed to delight its younger audiences. Recommended for ages 3.5-9.

Happy Theater: Five Spoons
Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts | Gaithersburg, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Tickets: $20
Interactive community building theater piece for adults and children alike. Five miniature stories are creatively told and woven together into a greater story about our personal connection to the world and to each other. Through physical theater, storytelling, audience interaction and object-based theater we meet five people who live next to us – people who may be living without vision, or hearing, who have movement limitations, or are lonely, angry, sad… How do they see, hear or feel the world, and how do we see, hear or feel them? Recommended for ages 10+.

Capital City Symphony’s Symphonic Dancing
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center | H Street NE, DC
When: Sunday, 3:30pm & 5:30
Tickets: $15-20
This fun, interactive family concert will have every family member on their feet! The program explores the expressive, dance-like melodies of William Grant Still’s Danzas de Panama, and Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer and Maple Leaf Rag. Come enjoy this energetic concert for all ages! Join 30 minutes before the performance for an Instrument Petting Zoo!

Moco Camp & Summer Fun Expo
Where: Hilton DC/Rockville Hotel | Rockville, MD
When: Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
At Washington Parent magazine’s Annual Camp and Summer Fun Expo, attendees can gather details about camp options and learn about summer activities for the entire family. Learn all about various kinds of camps — general, sports, residential, special needs, arts, STEM, special focus, and summer programs. You can also explore summer fun destinations like theme parks, vacation spots, and general summer happenings. There will be plenty for kids to do while parents focus on the programs for their children, including face painting, balloon arts, giveaways, and more.

McLean Chocolate Festival
Where: McLean Community Center | McLean, VA
When: 11am – 5pm
Admission: $2, free/under 3
If you love chocolate, check out this sweet event: McLean Rotary is hosting its 9th Annual Chocolate Festival on Sunday. Vendors include Dave’s Candy Kitchen, Seasons 52, Fluffy Thoughts, Capital Candy Jar, and many more. Patrons can buy treats to eat on site or to stock up for Valentine’s Day, and there will be a chocolate-related games for kids and live entertainment throughout the day. And American Heritage, a Mars company, will demonstrate how chocolate was made in colonial America. Proceeds go to fund local charitable organizations.

Lunar New Year Celebration
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Join the museum dedicated to Asian Art for the sixth annual Lunar New Year celebration to ring in the Year of the Rat. Enjoy food, performances, and art representing the richness of New Year celebrations in China, Korea, and Mongolia. Experience interactive art demonstrations, live magic and musical performances, and delicious food for sale. Plus, enjoy two special Sackler exhibitions—Resound: Ancient Bells of China and Sacred Dedication: A Korean Buddhist Masterpiece—and the permanent collection of Asian art in the Freer.

CUENTA-CUENTOS: STORYTIME in Spanish
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Sunday, 11am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy story time en Español at the Hirhshorn! Join for a read aloud of The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. Following the story, stay and play with Snowy Day-inspired materials.Explore contemporary art through stories and movement. All audiences are welcome to join this Spanish-language program, led by a multilingual educator.

Chinese New Year Parade
Where: Throughout Chinatown, DC
When: Sunday, 2pm
Admission: Free
Welcome, Year of the Rat! On Sunday, the annual Chinese New Year Parade brings vibrant tradition to Downtown DC. Festivities kick off at 6th & I Streets NW at 2pm and will wind through the streets of Chinatown celebrating Chinese culture in a brilliant procession of traditional dance, music, and, of course, the iconic lions and dragons. Kids always love seeing the show and having trinkets and treats given to them by parade participants passing by (mine really dig this!). The parade lasts about two hours, and spectating is free. Get there a little early to stake out your curbside spot — lots of folks come out for this one, especially if it’s a nice day.

Winter Wonderland Ball
Where: Kensington Town Hall | Kensington, MD
When: Sunday, 3-5pm
Admission: $7/person or $25/family
The Noyes Children’s Library Foundation is hosting The Winter Wonderland Ball, a family dance party celebrating imagination, fun and, of course, books. Kensington Town Hall will be transformed into a fairy tale palace, with children invited to march in a Royal Procession before joining the A-Squad DJ on the dance floor. There will be crafts, photo-ops and a special Royal Reading Room with stories and songs. Costumes (of any kind) are encouraged for children and parents. Space is limited, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. The Winter Wonderland Ball is open to children of all ages, but the activities are geared to kids from 2 to 8 years old.

Chill Out(side)
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
I’m a big proponent of getting outdoors, no matter what the weather. And this weekend should actually be decent at least one day, so get out and take advantage. Roam free at Dumbarton Oaks (no admission fee this time of year), the National Arboretum, or Brookside Gardens. Go for a hike at Great Falls, Prince William Forest Park, or even farther out at Harper’s Ferry. Hit the playground at Watkins, Cabin John, or Clemyjontri Parks. Find even more ideas in this post about great outdoor pursuits with kids — there are tons of great al fresco adventures around the area.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* There are a couple of giveaways currently running — for tickets to The King’s Speech at National Theatre and a session of February Break camp or Spring Break camp (when DCPS students are off) with RDUTennis!
* The Spy Museum’s annual Spy Fest is next Friday night. And I can tell you from experience that it’s a really fun time!
* The 6th Annual Comfort Cases Gala to benefit their mission to help youth in foster will take place on Saturday, April 25.
* Who else is excited about American Ninja Warrior coming to DC?
* Just started this book thanks to this post.
* Faves of the latest IG meme: This, this, and of course the original.

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Filed under 2020, All ages, Annual, Art, DC

Tagged as Best Activities with Kids in DC this Weekend, Chinese New Year 2020, DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Activities, DC Kids Museums, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Family Activities DC, Fun Things to do in the Washington DC Area, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Kids Activities in Maryland, Kids Activities in Northern Virginia, Kids Entertainment in DC, Lunar Nw Year Celebrations in DC, Washington DC Events, Weekend in DC, What to do in DC this Weekend January 18-19 2020, Winter 2020

January 16, 2020 · 5:12 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: January 17-20

Our weekend honoree: This cool kid who we all love so much (even Sash). Happy Birthday, O!

Happy Long Weekend!

Celebrate MLK
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
MLK Day may be on Monday, but there are events and activities that pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. throughout the whole weekend. Volunteer opportunities, library activities, the annual Peace Walk & Parade, sports, art adventures, and live entertainment are some of the ways you can celebrate the day. This post has details on all of them.

$2 Family Fun Night
Where: Port Discovery | Baltimore, MD
When: Friday, 4 – 8pm
Admission: $2/ages 1+
Explore Port Discovery’s BIG new exhibits, The SkyClimber and The Port, and three floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits for just $2 per person — presented by Maryland 529. Tickets for this event must be purchased in person at the event; they are not available in advance.

Fortnight Nerf Night
Where: Badlands Play Space | Rockville, MD
When: Friday, 5:50-8pm
Admission:$30/child includes dinner buffet
Badlands invites kids ages 7+ to join them for an evening of team based challenges with a Fortnight theme. Participants are encouraged to bring the blaster of their choosing and protective eye wear. Badlands will provide the foam darts, a complimentary dinner for the kids, and FUN! Read more about Badlands in this KFDC post.

Health & Fitness Expo
Where: Washington Convention Center | Mount Vernon Square, DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 5pm & Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
NBC’s annual expo celebrates healthy living at the Washington Convention Center this weekend. Check out hundreds of exhibitors, plus there will be free health screenings, exercise and dance demos, opportunities to try new sports, giveaways, and activities especially for kids. The Convention Center is located at 901 Mount Vernon Place, NW. Metered street parking and garages are nearby, and you can take the Metro’s yellow/green line to the Mount Vernon stop.

Art Investigators: Yayoi Kusama
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10:30am & 11:30am | Sunday, 11:30 & 12:30pm
Admission: Free
The NGA’s wonderful Art Investigators is back with winter sessions. The drop-in program for kids ages 4-7 will explore works by Yayoi Kusama with a a book reading, a look at her work, then an art project that directly relates to it. Sign-in takes place in the East Building Atrium, starting at 10am on Saturday and 11am on Sunday. Be aware that you may not get an early time slot and will have time to fill before your session, so plan accordingly. Read a KFDC review of the series back when it was called Stories in Art (it’s an older post, but still relevant, as the program is very much the same).

Origami & Bonsai Workshop
Where: US National Arboretum | Northeast DC
When: Saturday, 10-11:30am
Admission: $15 (plus service fee)
Learn how to create four origami animals from experienced origami teacher and artist, Jeff Raab. At the start of class, be inspired by the peace and calm of the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s treasured trees on your private group tour lead by Museum Curator, Micahel James. Then get cozy for a folding session inside with Jeff. This is the perfect hobby to learn in time for the brisk winter months so you can stay inside and keep those creative juices flowing. Beginners and accompanied children (ages 6 and up) welcome! Plan to spend more time at the wonderfull Arboetum after the workshop — read (and see) more about it here and here.

City of Stories: A Community Book Art Project
Where: Freer|Sackler Gallery | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
Drop in to contribute to the community project City of Stories with artist Sushmita Mazumdar. Inspired by photographs in the exhibit My Iran: Six Women Photographers, explore how artists share their stories and perspectives on a self-guided tour. Then return to the studio to create a house-shaped book and add it to a collaborative installation. For all ages and adult companions.

Future Sketches
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $16-20/adult, $13-15/senior, $8-10/child (find discount)
A new exhibit opens at ARTECHOUSE this weekend. In Future Sketches, artist Zach Lieberman “creates digital poetry through code, technology and theory. He writes his own software to create his artwork, and is a co-creator of openFrameworks, an open source C++ toolkit for creative coding.” The exhibits at the gallery specializing in digital art always include large scale installations and interactives that all ages can enjoy.

It’s All Downhill…
Where: Around the region
When: Through winter
Admission: Varies
Between the long weekend and snow in the forecast, it’s a good time to get in some skiing! There are a bunch of resorts within a few hours’ drive that are great for young, newbie skiers (and experienced swooshers, too). SkiPA is a good resource for finding slopes to suit your crew, and if you have a 4th or 5th grader, be sure to sign up for the SnowPass that offers free skiing opportunities. Some resorts to check out, both with or without the pass: Liberty, Whitetail, Seven Springs, Hidden Valley, Bryce, Snowshoe, and Wisp.

Inside Action
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
If you want to let the kids burn some energy, but aren’t so keen on cold, take them to an indoor playground. There are lots of places around the area where they can run, jump, slide, roll, and literally bounce off the walls in some cases — all within warm spaces. And many of them have areas for you to stay comfy while they do. This post has info on where to go.

Ginger Beard Mania
Where: Supreme Core Cider | Northeast DC
When: Saturday, 12-4pm
Admission: $20
Supreme Core Cider is throwing this second annual party to celebrate their Ginger Beard Man spiced winter cider — and the whole family is invited! A ticket gets you entrance, a free pint, signature cider cocktail from Green Hat, and a 4-pack to take with you. Awesome BBQ will be provided by the Smoke & Ember BBQ Truck. There will also be a Ginger Beard Competition — whether yours is natural or embellished (you know, fake), you are free to enter. Kids and pets welcome.

The Pied Piper
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: January 18, 11am & 2pm
Tickets: $32/adult, $17/child (find discount)
American Pop Orchestra’s The Pied Piper will add a musical element to the classic story by placing the Piper in a town where music and dancing aren’t allowed. Piper, reimagined as a woman in this production, will have a tricky time convincing the locals that music can solve their rat problem, but if they keep their promise of a hefty reward, things just might work out!

Rapunzel
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo, MD
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Tickets: $12
See a puppet version of the “bewitching” tale by Duane T. Bowers, adapted from the Brothers Grimm fairytale. Witch Wartsmith wants a baby, and after bargaining for little Rapunzel, must go to great lengths to keep her out of the hands of a handsome prince. The Puppet Co. uses “coloring- book” charm and the simplicity of hand puppets in a production designed to delight its younger audiences. Recommended for ages 3.5 to 9.

Narnia
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre | Arlington, VA
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $15/adult, $12/child (find discount)
Encore Stage & Studio presents its signature theatre By Kids For Kids… When the four Pevensie children stumble upon an old wardrobe, little do they know they will discover the magical world of Narnia. Full of mystical creatures, talking animals, and great escapes, this action-packed story by C.S. Lewis depicts the triumph of Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia, over the White Witch. Join the adventure as four brave kids, one great lion, and an entire kingdom fight for what is right. Recommended for ages 4+.

Mouse on the Move
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $12
Recommended for ages 1-5, this show is about Nellie and Amelia, two adventurous mice ready to explore the world beyond their little mouse-hole. They decide to go to the moon, since it is cat-free and made entirely of delicious, mouth-watering cheese (so they have heard). In this interactive play, the audience becomes part of the story through multi-sensory activities. Join as we all try to reach beyond the stars.

Opera Starts with Oh!
Where: Hill Center | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 3-5pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy a free afternoon of artistic playtime with your family and immerse yourselves the art of all arts — opera! Unravel the many elements of opera through play and immersive activities à la Opera Lafayette. The second Opera starts with Oh! atelier of the season explores Leonore, a story of bravery, through play-acting and design with OL designers and artists. Led by internationally trained director, choreographer, and teaching artist, Emma Jaster, and featuring musicians, a singer, and a designer, the program Opera starts with Oh! is perfect for families with children aged 3 & up. Sign up here.

NCAA B-Ball
Where: Colleges around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Catch some college hoops action! With so many universities in the area, there’s always exciting play on area courts. Here where yo can watch it this weekend:
* Maryland men vs Purdue on Saturday at 2pm (Go, Terps!)
* Georgetown men vs. Marquette on Saturday at 2pm
* American men vs. Holy Cross on Saturday at 2pm
* George Mason men vs. Richmond on Saturday at 2:30pm
* Howard men vs. Yale on Monday at 1pm
* Maryland women vs. Indiana on Monday at 8pm (Go, Terps!)

Playbank for Elizabeth Warren
Where: CentroNía | Columbia Heights, DC
When: Saturday, 10-11:30am
Admission: Free
Supporters of Elizabeth Warren are hosting a “Playbank,” a phonebank and playdate rolled into one! From the hosts: “Elizabeth Warren knows from her years as a single mother how hard it is to raise kids, and her campaign office and policy positions reflect it! We’ll have a dedicated room with tables, toys, and books to call and play together with our small children. Laura and I (your neighbors and hosts) will bring snacks, provide phonebank training, and help entertain the kiddos. We’ll be calling critical Iowa voters ahead of the caucuses to ensure that Warren resurges and is positioned well to become our next President Playbanking may not be the most efficient way to phonebank, but it’ll surely be the most fun!” Bring your mobile phone and headphones with microphone. Beginners are welcome and encouraged to join. Please RSVP here, and feel free to join even if you don’t RSVP; and come late rather than not at all. CentroNía is located at 1420 Columbia Rd NW, 4th Floor.

2020 Women’s March
Where: Starts at Freedom Plaza | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
As it says on the website: “Three years of marching, training, organizing, and building power – it’s all been leading up to this. In 2020, we have the chance to strengthen the movement we started three years, and to unite together in the face of continued attacks on our bodies, our rights, our immigrant communities, and our planet. This year, we aren’t just marching. We’re putting our bodies on the line hand in hand with other mass movements. With your help, we can make this the largest day of action the country has ever seen, and demand that our leaders be held accountable, protect our planet, and fight for our rights.”

Complimentary Community Weekend
Where: National Museum of Women in the Arts | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: Free
On the weekend of the Women’s March, take this opportunity to join the museum as they celebrate the creative contributions of women and champion women through the arts! Works span the centuries, from the 16th to the present in a variety of mediums, highlighting women artists all over the world. Currently on view is Judy Chicago—The End: A Meditation on Death and Extinction, Live Dangerously, Delita Martin: Calling Down the Spirits, and Betsabeé Romero: Signals of a Long Road Together, plus many more great works in the permanent collection.

Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: Monday
Admission: Free!
It’s the first fee free day of the year for national parks, which means there’s no cost for entry where they usually charge to get in. Take advantage of complimentary admission and the day off from school. Some ideas: Hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, explore Prince William Forest Park, go to Fort McHenry, or visit Harpers Ferry.

Family Concert
Where: Temple Emmanuel | Kensington, MD
When: Monday, 11am
Admission: $10/age 12+, free/11& under
Bring the whole family to enjoy a special family concert by the New Orchestra of Washington, a chamber orchestra based in the District. The colorful program will engage listeners both young and young at heart with Eine Kleine Nacht Musik by Mozart for string instruments (2 violins, viola, cello), Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev, arranged for woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, and percussion), and a newly written piece Labrinto (Labyrinth) by the NOW Artistic Director, Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez, for all instruments listed above plus piano. After the concert, stay to enjoy an instrument petting zoo!

Wizards Matinee
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Monday, 2pm
Admission: Tickets start $10
The Wizards are playing at home on Monday when many have the day off work. See the on-court action against the Detroit Pistons. Plan on a pre-game lunch in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Carmine’s, Jaleo, Pi Pizzeria, Cava Grill, and Shake Shack.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
*Local nonprofit Eliana’s Light has a wonderful way for families to give back together: Valentine’s Day Cards for Kids & Cookies for Caregivers.
* There’s a Young Learner Tour coming up at the National Museum of Women in the Arts on February 15 — a perfect way to introduce little ones to a museum you might usually consider too sophisticated for their ages.
* This book about DC is especially for little ones, and you can get a free shipping on it by emailing the code kid friendly booksbyblakesmom@gmail.com.
* Have you heard of a Blessing Box? There is now one in our neighborhood, and I think it’s a lovely idea.
* The docuseries Cheer on Netflix is one of the best shows I’ve watched in awhile. WOW. Not only was I was blown away by the sheer athleticism and grit required for the sport (yes, it IS a sport), but I was also incredibly moved and inspired by the cheerleaders, their stories, and the leadership, compassion, and open heart of their coach. Strongly recommend!
* And a movie rec: Parasite. Whoa. So deserving of all the awards and nominations. (It’s now streaming on Amazon.)
* If you’ve already watched Cheer (or after you do), you’ll appreciate this.

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Filed under 2020, All ages, Annual, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Free, Holidays, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Outdoor, Seasonal, Sports, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend, Winter

Tagged as Best Activities with Kids in DC this Weekend, DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Activities, DC Kids Museums, DC outdoors, DC with kids, Family Activities DC, Fun Things to do in the Washington DC Area, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Kids Activities in Maryland, Kids Activities in Northern Virginia, Kids Entertainment in DC, MLK Jr. Day, MLK Weekend 2020, Washington DC Events, Weekend in DC, What to do in DC this Weekend January 18-19 2020, Winter 2020

January 9, 2020 · 4:04 pm

The Weekend Round-Up: January 10-12

Have a ball at the Wizards Kids Day and a game on Sunday!

Happy Weekend!

Family Happy Hour
Where: Hill Center | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday, 5-7pm
Admission: $10/child, $5/adult
Kick off the weekend with a casual happy hour for parents and tots! Local fave band, King Bullfrog, will bring the entertainment with high-energy original folk and blues songs carefully tailored to get children dancing and delight grownups. Meet new friends and gather with old. Complimentary pizza and a water dispenser there, too (but consider donating to the pizza fund!).

Sound Health: Second Saturday
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Saturday, 9:30am & 11:30am
Admission: Free
CityDance POP! will be teaching a Creative Movement class for ages 3-5 at this Second Saturday event. Get ready to explore balance, coordination, and imagination through dance. Parents are welcome to join in on the fun! This is part of Sound Health: Second Saturdays, a series of free workshops designed for families with children under the age of 8 that explore the power of the arts to promote wellness of the mind and body. It occurs every second Saturday of the month. Sign up in advance!

Nationals Winterfest
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-4pm
Admission: $20+/child, $30+/adult (find discount)
The World Series Champion Washington Nationals will return to Nationals Park this weekend for the annual Winterfest! Nats players, coaches, and front office staff will make appearances throughout the weekend, participating in Q&A sessions and signing autographs for fans. Other activities include photo ops with the World Series Trophy and WGL Energy Bullpen Cart, a snow angel photo station, and the return of the curling station! Single-day and two-day passes are available.

Camp Arena Stage Open House
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Get a preview of Camp Arena Stage at an Open House this weekend! Children ages 8-15 are welcome to participate in sample workshops and classes focusing on theater, musical theater, visual art, singing, and dance — all taught by Camp staff. It’s also a great opportunity to have all of your camp questions answered. (PS: We can tell you from firsthand experience that this camp is great!)

Sensory Friendly Screening: Frozen II
Where: Regal Rockville Center Stadium | Rockville, MD
When: Saturday, 10:30am
Admission: $6.50
Catch a Sensory-Friendly Screening of Frozen II 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.

Think Outside
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
When temps reach the high 60’s in January, it kind of feels obligatory to take advantage, even if there is rain. (Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. 😉 ) Take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, visit animals, or see what else there is to do in the fresh air in this round-up with all kinds of ideas for outdoor fun. (But if you are seeking fun inside, check out The Great Indoors list with over 100 recommendations.)

Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks throughout Fairfax County, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Fairfax County Park Authority hosts all kinds of events on weekends for guests of all ages. Join for a campfire, s’mores, and animals at Hidden Oaks Nature Center on Friday evening. Learn how animals stay safe and snug at Riverbend Park. Build your own time capsule at Eleanor C. Lawrence Park. Details and registration for these and more activities this weekend and beyond are available here.

Park it in MoCo
Where: MoCo Parks | Montgomery County, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Montgomery Parks also presents loads of special activities for visitors of all ages. Explore Art in the Park at Black Hill Nature Center, join at gnome and fairy tea party at Brookside, enjoy s’mores and more at Clarksburg Neighborhood Park. See the online calendar for details and even more events coming up.

Literacy Fiesta
Where: Wheaton Library | Wheaton, MD
When: Saturday, 11am – 12pm
Admission: Free
In this Literacy Fiesta program, kids and adults are part of the story as you celebrate books and stories through drama, music, movement and dance! Join the fun and leave the winter blues behind! Register online, by calling the library at 240.777.0678, or by visiting in person! Spots will be available up to the program’s start time while spaces remain.

Pete the Cat
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admissions: $20
See a show recommended for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade: For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out.

Peter Pan and Wendy
Where: Sidney Harman Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $35-120/adult, $35/14 & under (find discounts)
It’s the final weekend for Shakespeare Theatre Company’s version of a classic. It’s a fantastic production with one of the most magical sets ever — audiences of all ages will be enchanted! Bold, budding scientist Wendy Darling dreams of earning a Nobel Prize. When Peter Pan arrives at her bedroom window, she takes a leap and leaves finishing school behind, chasing adventure among the stars. Facing down fairies, mermaids, and the dastardly Captain Hook, Wendy, Peter, and their friends discover the power of standing up together for what’s right. J.M. Barrie’s classic Peter Pan is reimagined for a new generation of theatregoers. Recommended for ages 5+.

Portrait Stories & Discoveries
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday & Sunday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Drop in at the National Portrait Gallery to listen to a story about Albert Einstein and complete a hands-on activity. When you’re done there, pick up a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum. For more about the program and the museum, see this post and this one.

Drop in at THE REACH
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
The Moonshot Studio at The REACH, the Kennedy Center’s expansion offering more ways to experience the arts, welcomes weekend drop-ins. Offering activities especially for families, you can learn to draw like Mo Willems; use hand made technology called a zoetrope to make characters squawk, jump, and dance; have fun at the Mixmaster Station to creating mixes using sounds, rhythms, and beats. The Studio is open every Saturday and Sunday, and you can see what other offerings are coming up on the schedule here.

Story Time
Where: Book shops around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Several local bookstores around the area host free story times for children on weekends that often include more than just a reading. At Kramerbooks in Dupont Circle, they’ll watch your kiddos while you grab a coffee on Sundays at 11am. Head to Hooray for Books in Old Town Alexandria on Friday or Saturday for story time from 10:30-11am. Solid State Books hosts readings on Saturday and Sunday at 10:30am. You can also join sessions at DC Public Libraries — see where and when they take place this weekend.

Harbor Point Ice Festival
Where: Harbor Point | Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, 12-6pm
Admission: Free
Central Plaza in Harbor Point will come alive for the Harbor Point Ice Festival with fun for all ages! The plaza will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, live ice sculptures lining the walkways, live music, food trucks, drinks, kids’ crafts and more! Watch the excitement as award-winning ice sculptors use chainsaws and chisels to create spectacular mega ice sculptures. (Heads up! The Baltimore Ravens playoff game is Saturday evening, so traffic could be messy in downtown. Something to consider if you’re planning to go there. Thanks to KFDC reader Ali for cluing me in on that!)

More Charm City Fun, Hon!
Where: Various venues in Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Whether you pair something with the Ice Festival or pick just one activity, a visit to our sister city just up I-95 makes for a great family outing. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art around at the American Visionary Art Museum. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Tour the historic ships moored at the Inner Harbor. Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry. (PS: See above listing for note about the Saturday evening Ravens game.)

Teen Night at the USBG
Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 6:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Kids between the ages of 13 & 17, are invited to the US Botanic Garden for an evening of art and science. Spend the time wandering through the Conservatory, exploring the USBG plant collection, and encountering hands-on art and science stations. Pre-registration is required!

Cap It
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Washington Capitals will be taking over Capital One Arena on Saturday night. Watch the action on the ice as the host the New Jersey Devils. If you want to plan on a pre-match dinner in Penn Quarteo, there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Pi Pizzeria.

Washington Wizards Kids Day
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Sunday, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Admission: Free
Bring the kids to a day full of Wizards fun! This year it’s LEGO-themed, and the first 200 kids in the arena receive a pretty awesome gift. As a bonus, special paid Kids Club Members will be chosen to hit the court to join the Wizard players during the National Anthem or for a postgame autograph session. They’re also very excited for the Cradle Club baby race during halftime when the tiniest fans crawl-race to the finish line — they’re looking for a few contestants for that, too. Stick around for the game against the Utah Jazz at 3:30pm!

Step Afrika! Step Xplosion
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: Sunday, 5pm
Admission: $35-75
Enjoy a showcase of the region’s finest step squads featuring lightning-fast footwork, percussive chants, and incredible synchronicity. In addition to Step Xplosion, Step Afrika! showcases a portion of their new work, Drumfolk, commissioned by Strathmore. Drumfolk honors the heritage of step and places the evolution of this vibrant art form in its historical context. Tracing step’s roots to the African American percussive traditions of patting juba, hambone, ring shout, and tap, Drumfolk reflects on the harsh realities of the American South and celebrates the fortitude of enslaved Africans who practiced these transcendent musical forms.

Ice It
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
If the high temps don’t cause melty conditions, ice skating outdoors will be a great way spend some time. Take in art as you skate at the Sculpture Garden; glide over the Potomac on The Wharf’s cool rink; circle around Washington Harbour as you enjoy river views; meander along the Figure 8 path at Canal Park; or do some 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.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* How you can help Australia.
* 10 awesome things families can look forward to in 2020.
* Kids can sign up for an origami & bonsai workshop at the National Arborteum on January 18 — use code CHILDREN10 for 10% off.
* Acorns is a neat, easy way to invest and save money — we’ve been signed up for a couple of years now. (Full disclosure: Sharing via my referral link, but it really is a great app!)
* Humans of NY changes lives… maybe it’ll help this one, too.
* If, like me, you’re trying to make eco-conscious changes, I recommended these.
* A heartwarming story that will also make you LOL.
* Amy Schumer wins Instagram this week 😂