Tag Archives: What to Do With Kids During Coronavirus

June 25, 2021 · 9:56 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 25-27

Sand, surf, and fossilized treasures at the Purse Area in Charles County

 

Happy Weekend!

Go-to posts for ongoing and seasonal activities:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Swim Spots
* Local Hikes with Kids
* On the Water
* Indoor Outings
* Bike Rides
* Peaceful Places
* Baltimore with Kids

Lovin’ Summer 

Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity

Get your summer on this weekend with a host of activities exclusive to this time of year. Catch an outdoor concert or movie under the stars. Enjoy some water fun at an outdoor pool, sprayground, or water park. Check out a special seasonal exhibit. Do some crabbing (the feasting kind). Take a spin on a carousel or mini train, and so much more. See the 2021 KFDC Guide to Summer Around the DC Area for the full scoop on these and even more summer favorites.

Drive-In, in NoVa
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
Catch a flick from the comfort of your car!  See The Greatest Showman on Friday night and Trolls on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd. Purchase movie tickets in advance! And for more movies under the stars, the KFDC Summer Guide has details on what’s playing where.

Summer Block Party: Inside Out
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Starting Saturday through Labor Day
Admission:
It’s not quite as big as previous years, but the National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party is back for the season!  This year’s exhibition is very family-friendly, featuring a handful of smaller projects and programs both in the museum and on the West Lawn that are better for the early post-pandemic era of smaller gatherings and social distancing aptly titled Inside Out, the Block Party includes Maze of Knowledge, a wooden maze filled with books; a hand-built cathedral truss; interactive art; outdoor films; and more! And for memories’ sake, have a look at some of the past Summer Block Parties: The Big Maze, The Beach, Icebergs, Hive, Fun House, Lawn. (Whew! I’ve been at this a long time.)

Adventure in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by age
There are a few spots still open at the Adventure Park this weekend. Kids as young  five years old can experience thrills on the ropes courses and zip lines in the park’s aerial adventure forest, the largest in North America. Children ages 5-6 with an adult have access to two of the easier courses. Older kids can do much more. It may seem like a pricey venture, but it’s so worth it. Trust me. Read more about the park in this new post and  this ones from several years back.  And if you can’t  get in this weekend, reserve ahead for another time.

Take a Dip
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
As temps rise over the weekend, this round-up of non-pool places to swim around the area will be useful. Find beaches on the Bay (and even Atlantic), lakes and rivers, and swimming holes and creeks — all that welcome the public to take a dip!

Millennium Stage: Jalsa (Remixed)
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, 5:30pm & Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
This weekend’s Millennium Stage os presented in partnership with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. Register in advance and enjoy celebratory sounds, storytelling, and dance affirming the creativity, joy, and resilience of Global South diaspora and BIPOC communities in the DMV. Plan to visit Victura Park while you’re there. The pop-up wine garden and cafe on the grounds of The REACH is a great place to hang out and enjoy a nice day.

Community Pride
Where: Arlington Arts Center | Arlington, VA
When: Saturday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
Join a family-friendly day of celebrating LGBTIA+ community, artists, and contemporary art at Arlington Arts Center. Outdoors, they’ll host art-making activities all day, music by DJ Natty Boom 12-3pm, and readings by Citrine from Drag Queen Story Hour at 3pm and 4pm. Summer exhibitions will be on view inside for guests to explore througout eight galleries.

Good Kid-izens: Global Passport
Where: Color Burst Park | Columbia, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Admission: Free
Calling all Good Kid-izens! You’re invited to a summer long series of fun and learning at Color Burst Park. Join every other Saturday to celebrate inclusion, diversity and education. This weekend, travel the globe with reading, crafts, games and more. Good Kid-izens will go on a journey around the world to explore new and diverse cultures. Register in advance.

Beachy Keen
Where: Several destinations in Maryland
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Do something quintessentially summer and hit the beach! You don’t have to go all the way to the ocean — there is sand and surf (and shark tooth hunting, in some places) within day trip distance from DC! Head a bit past Annapolis to Sandy Point, go to one of several spots in Calvert County, or make fossil hunting your main focus at the Purse Area in Charles, County. See the 2021 Guide to Summer in DC for details and links on all of these beaches.

Fossil Hunters
Where: Calvert and Charles Counties, MD
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by place
Mentioned above, there are several spots that are a day trip-distance drive away from DC, where you can search for shark teeth and other remnants from the Miocene and Paleocene eras. Play paleontologist and spend a day at one of them… I can assure you from lots of experience it’s a fun and fascinating (those fossils are millions of years old!) activity. Beware that you might encounter crowds — this post is one of the most popular on KFDC if that’s any indication — so have a Plan B just in case.

Walks in the Woods
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
It’s always a good time to get out for a hike. Rambling along a trail  is great for some family bonding and enjoy active time outdoors. On a warmer weekend, places with shade will be good to seek out. Some specific recs: Turkey Run Park in McLean, VA; Prince William Forest in Triangle, VA; Rock Creek Park in DC (note: post is about Peirce Mill, but includes info on a nice hike from there); and Scott’s Run Nature Preserve in McLean, VA.

Hey All You Cool Cats & Kittens
Where: Crumbs & Whiskers | Georgetown, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 8pm
Admission: Starts at $20/30 minutes
Crumbs & Whiskers’ cafe in Georgetown is officially reopening from the pandemic on Saturday. For the first time in more than a year, cat and kitten lovers will be able to cuddle, Instagram, and, if they choose, even adopt the purrfect pet. Plus, there’s coffee and snacks too! Up to 25 kittens — all of them previously at risk of euthanasia — will once again happily frolic with their human guests in Crumbs & Whiskers’ comfy lounge at 3109 M Street NW. It will be open from 11am – 7:30pm on weekdays (closed on Tuesdays) and 11am – 8pm Friday – Sunday with a post-COVID max capacity of 16 people. Masks are required.

Fun at Fairfax Parks
Where: Parks in Fairfax, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The Fairfax County Park Authority hosts all kinds of events on weekends for guests of all ages. Join a Campfire Friday at Lake Accotink Park. Explore Nature in the Animated World at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Visit historic Colvin Run Mill to learn about the milling process. Get more details on these activities and see what else is going on here.

Sensory Sunday
Where: Agricultural History Farm Park | Derwood, MD
When: Sunday, 12-2pm
Admission: Free
All ages are welcome to join Montgomery Parks for a special time on the Farm that will engage- but not overstimulate- all of the senses! Meet resident livestock, explore the gardens, and revel in the tranquility of a morning on the farm.

Out & About
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
The round-up of the Best Places in the DC Ares to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids is a very bookmark-worthy post, highlighting a variety of spots to hang and be active outside.  Even more, every single listing includes a description based on our actual experiences at them!

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* There’s a new round-up of 10 Outdoor “Lawn” Games for Extra Summer Fun!
* And this one with summertime must-haves for little ones has some excellent recs.
* Wolf Trap is presenting Children’s Performances at the Filene Center this summer — reserve tickets for July shows now!
* The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which is virtual again this year, begins this weekend.
* Bobby McKee’s, the dueling piano venue at National Harbor, has a family day show coming up on July 17. Tickets go fast, so reserve yours soon.
* Tea Collection currently has a big summer sale going on.
* Washington Post recommends 20 Books to Read this Summer (Would love to get reader recommendations, too!)
* Such a moving Humans of New York post — and an awesome follow-up.

 

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June 18, 2021 · 10:05 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 18-20

 

Happy Weekend! Happy Juneteenth! And Happy Father’s Day to all the dads!

Go-to posts full of ideas for activities around the area:
* Swim Spots
* On the Water
* Indoor Outings
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Peaceful Places
* Bike Rides

Father’s Day Weekend Fun
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
It’s a special day for the dads this weekend, and there are a bunch of great ways for the whole fam to celebrate if you’re still looking for ideas, from ballgames to brunches to outdoor recreation. See a whole round-up of them in this post, some of which are included below.

Joys of Summer
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Summer officially begins on Sunday, and there are activities galore to ring it in! Water fun, outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and more seasonal fun. Make a splash at an outdoor public pool or a spray ground, enjoy a special exhibit, and so much more. The 2021 KFDC Guide to Summer Around the DC Area has the scoop on where and when you can experience all the joys of season.

Juneteenth Lighting for Freedom and Justice
Where: Washington National Cathedral | Woodley Park, DC
When: Friday & Saturday, 9pm
Admission: Free
In honor and celebration of Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States, the Washington National Cathedral will light its west façade. Join as they celebrate the joyous day of liberation and work towards a just and equitable world for all. When visiting the grounds, wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines.

Glow With It
Where: Around Georgetown
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free
A great evening activity with the fam: Dinner in Georgetown, then a stroll around the neighborhood to see Georgetown Glow, the free outdoor public art experience featuring modern light art installations. Find a map of them here and plan your walking route. A few restaurant recs: Pizzeria Paradiso, Farmers Fishers Bakers, Pinstripes, and Peacock Cafe.

Al Fresco Films
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
Several movies series and drive-ins are screening films on weekend evenings. Catch a flick at the Alexandria Drive-in, PG Stadium, and in Greenbelt. The KFDC Summer Guide has details on what’s playing where. And be sure to check that they aren’t cancelled due to weather.

Millennium Stage
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday & Saturday
Admission: Free
For World Refugee Day, the Kennedy Center is presenting fun and inspiration to celebrate the courage and resilience of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution and violence. Music and dance performances, an arts market, DJ sets, and more will be on the plaza. Plan to visit Victura Park while you’re there. The pop-up wine garden and cafe on the grounds of The REACH is a great place to hang out and enjoy a nice day.

Juneteeth Celebration
Where: Brookland Arts Walk | Brookland, DC
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Swing through Brookland Arts Walk on Saturday to shop Black owned creative businesses. All of the artist studios will be hosting a Black owned business pop up, so there will be lots of activity, handmade goods, music, art, and good vibes all around!

Make a Splash
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
This weekend is going to be a hot one.  Luckily, spray parks, outdoor pools, and waterparks  around the area have started welcoming guests to splash around and cool off.  The 2021 KFDC Summer Guide has details on where to go for water play — see info for sprays here, outdoor pools here, and waterparks here.

Swim in Nature
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This round-up of places to swim around the area will also come in handy in rising temps. Find beaches on the Bay (and even Atlantic), lakes and rivers, and swimming holes and creeks — all that welcome the public to take a dip!

Nats vs. Mets
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are hosting the Mets all weekend, with games Friday at 7:05pm, Saturday at 1:05pm and and 6:05pm (make-up game), and Sunday at 1:05pm. Celebrate Father’s Day at the ballpark , and kids can get a t-shirt giveaway, too!

Root for the Baysox
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Father’s Day Weekend
Admission: Starts at $10
The Nats aren’t the only team in town. If you want to enjoy baseball on a smaller scale, the Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Akron Rubber Ducks all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy — post-game fireworks, Witch & Wizardry Night on Saturday, and giveaways among them. On Sunday, the first 500 dads will get a #1 Dad Baysox T-shirt, plus kids and dads can run the bases and play catch on the field post-game.  Read about one of our past Baysox experiences here.

Kids, Eggs & Kegs
Where: City-State Brewing Company | Northeast DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10am
Admission: Free, but plan to purchase food and drinks
City-State Brewing’s new family-focused event begins this weekend and will be held every Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy food trucks, games, and toys, plus non-alcoholic beverages. While City-State is always family-friendly, this event is specifically tailored to families with young children. Options for kids include: board games, arcade games, sidewalk chalk, toys for toddlers, DC-themed coloring pages, free Goldfish snacks, and tasty kid-friendly drinks. City-State has changing tables in the restrooms. The fun starts at 10am at the brewery located at 705 Edgewood St NE.

Charm City Fun, Hon!
Where: Around Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only is it nice to get a change of metro area scenery sometimes, Baltimore, our sister city just a 45-minute drive away is full of fantastic, family-friendly things to do. Find a whole post about all of them, including big attractions, suggestions for places to eat, and neighborhoods to explore.

Over the Rainbow & Beyond
Where: Watkins Regional Park
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Here’s an old KFDC fave that’s finally (almost) fully back in action and a great place to spend a day enjoying loads of free, fun activities: Watkins Regional Park!  Kiddos will love frolicking on the adorable Wizard of Oz themed playground. Old Maryland Farm, with animals to visit, is open (though capacity is limited, so there could be a wait). The Nature Center is also welcoming visitors by reservation (go here to book yours), and you can also hike some short trails nearby. Park hours are dawn to dusk, 11am – 4pm at the Nature Center and Old Maryland Farm. Admission to all of it is free.

StoryWalk: The Power of Everyday Heroes
Where: Downtown Kensington, MD
When: Starting Saturday through July 18
Admission: Free
The Noyes Library for Young Children invites families are invited to read 10 Hidden Heroes by Mark Shriver on posted signs as they stroll through Warner Circle Park (adjacent to the library at 10237 Carroll Place) in Kensington. In this fun-filled and inspiring seek-and-find book, Shriver highlights the various ways children and adults can be real-life heroes in their everyday lives.  A free craft kit related to the book will be available for pick up in a box outside the Noyes Library on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 4pm.

Wizard School Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Where: Watson Adventures Online
When: Sunday, 3-4:30 pm
Admission: $19
Grab your magic wands for a wizarding adventure that takes you to museums across America in search of art that echoes characters, places, and magical objects in the famed Harry Potter books and movies, all without leaving your home. You’ll track down slithering serpents, Hagrid-like giants and eerie figures as scary as any Dementor. This hunt references the books and provides a surprising bridge to many strange and wonderful works of art. For ages 10 and up. This game can be played either together or remotely with up to six players per team. Each team must have one adult. Advance booking is required.

***More Good Stuff***
* More Juneteenth celebrations around the area.
* Posted a couple of days ago: Summertime Must-Haves for Little Ones.
* Get ready for Amazon Prime Day, when you can score fantastic deals on all kinds of goods — June 20-21!
* Plan for July 4th fireworks on the National Mall!
* Dad jokes 😄

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June 11, 2021 · 8:59 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 11-13

Sure to be on the Pridemobile Parade route… Happy Pride Month!

 


VRBO
 

Happy Weekend!

Find ongoing and seasonal activities for all ages and interests in these posts:
* Swim Spots
* On the Water
* Indoor Outings
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Peaceful Places
* Bike Rides

Seasonal Treats
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
It still may not be official on the calendar, but when it comes to local recreation, summer has arrived. Free concerts in the open air, outdoor swimming, movies under the stars, sprayground fun, and SO much more! Activities exclusive to the season can be enjoyed all around the area this weekend. Some are listed in this round-up, and the 2021 KFDC Guide to the Best of Summer in DC has the scoop on the rest.

Charm City Fun, Hon!
Where: Around Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Not only is it nice to get a change of metro area scenery sometimes, Baltimore, our sister city just a 45-minute drive away is full of fantastic, family-friendly things to do. I’ve shared recommendations for them before, and now they are all listed together in a brand new post that includes big attractions, suggestions for places to eat, and neighborhoods to explore.

Colorful Pridemobile Parade
Where: Various locations around the DC area
When: Saturday, 3-6pm
Admission: Free
June is Pride Month, and while the annual, much loved big parade isn’t happening in quite the same way, there still will be fabulous and colorful procession of sorts. This unique mobile parade will feature the official Pridemobile trolly, followed by a colorful array of automobiles decorated by registered organizations and businesses, all on display for enthusiastic onlookers to enjoy. The route will be shared with the general public prior to the event and will pass through some of the city’s most lively areas for optimum visibility, including Dupont and Logan Circles, and iconic landmarks such as the Capitol Building.

The Colors of Our Year
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, 5:30pm & Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
This weekend’s Millennium Stage will be led by the KC’s youth council. Spoken word, music, visual art, movement, and film will be among the entertainment presented on the outdoor plaza. Plan to visit Victura Park while you’re there. The pop-up wine garden and cafe on the grounds of The REACH is a great place to hang out and enjoy a nice day.

Splash & Swim
Where: Around the DC area
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
‘Tis the season for water!  And you can enjoy it at a bunch of places, in a bunch of  ways around the area.  Spray parks, outdoor pools, and waterparks are open and welcoming guests to splash around and cool off.  The 2021 KFDC Summer Guide has details on where to go for water play — see info for sprays here, outdoor pools here, and waterparks here.

Beachy Keen: Sand, Surf, & Fossils
Where: Around the area
When: Daily
Admission: Varies by beach
The rain should let up by Saturday, so enoy a quintessential summer activity and hit the beach!  There are several places within day trip-distance from DC that are nice for sand and surf, where you can also picnic, play, maybe fossil hunt, and enjoy beachy vibes.  Head out to Calvert Cliffs State Park or Flag Ponds Nature Park. Or go east to Sandy Point State Park. You can also play paleontologist and look for prehistoric fragments along the Potomac at the Purse Area in Charles County, MD (one of our very favorite outings in the area).  Find a few more beach recs in this round-up of swim spots around the area.

Al Fresco Films
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by location
Several movies serie and drive-ins will be screening films on weekend evenings. Catch a flick at the Alexandria Drive-in, PG Stadium, and in Greenbelt. The KFDC Summer Guide has details on what’s playing where. And be sure to check that they aren’t cancelled due to weather.

Indoor Flicks
Where: Movie theaters around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by theater
If you’re vaxed and ready to watch a movie inside at a theater, they are open. A few PG & PG-13 showing this weekend: In the Heights, Peter Rabbit 2, Cruella, Spirit Untamed (2021), A Quiet Place Part II,

Hike & Then Some
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
We often like a little (or bigger) post-hike reward (ie, fun place to enjoy food and drinks after). Not only does activity work up appetites, it’s nice to extend the day at another fun place. A few great places to enjoy that: Sky Meadows State Park and Barrel Oak Winery. Sugarloaf Mountain and The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. Great Falls (MD side) and The Old Angler’s Inn. Patapsco Valley State Park and the Guinness Brewery.

100% Nats
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Tickets start at $13
The Nats are hosting the Giants at home this weekend, and you can cheer them on with 40,000-plus other fans as the ballpark returns to 100% capacity! There are games Friday at 7:05pm, Saturday at 4:05pm, and Sunday at 1:05pm, with promo giveaways on Friday (radio lanyards) and Sunday (kids sunglasses). And good news for little one and their parents: The playground will once again be open!

Tee Up
Where: Top Golf | National Harbor & Gaithersburg, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $27/bay
Practice your swing, enjoy a bite, and have some indoor/outdoor” fun.  At Top Golf, you can stay dry if it rains, but still enjoy the outdoors if it doesn’t.   Plus, there ’s a full service restaurant and bar (for parents, obvi) to make a full experience of it.  And for some golf on a smaller scale, you can play mini-golf at several places around the area.

Arts in Foggy Bottom
Where: Around Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Walk around Foggy Bottom to see the outdoor sculpture biennial “HUMAN/NATURE” featuring works by 12 artists installed throughout the neighborhood. Take a self-guided tour and scan QR codes located at each piece for more information the works. Pair it with a meal in the area — some family-friendly recs: Duke’s Grocery, Founding Farmers, Tonic, and Beefsteak.

Glow with Pride
Where: Georgetown, DC
When: Saturday, 7-9
Admission: Free
The artist is in at Georgetown Glow on Saturday evening. At the free outdoor public art experience featuring modern light art installations, artist Stephanie Mercedes will be at her work entitled “Weight of a Rainbow,” located next to the old Dean & Deluca, to talk about it. Her installation features a canopy of colorful lights dangling over the walkway with a collective a cappella choir of eight LGBTQ+ voices telling their stories through accompanied song.

DC Way Clean-Up
Where: Around Tyler Elementary | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Admission: Free
A great family volunteering opportunity! Join DC Way for a clean-up of the area surrounding some of the fields they use. The soccer club’s two-year environmental project, will be able to play a role in keeping DC clean, safe, and healthy. Volunteers of all ages welcome!

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Starting Friday, June 11, DC Covid restrictions are lifted!
* A reminder that many reopened museums and other places require timed-entry tickets, even when they’re free, and you often need to reserve them well in advance. Find a list and links to tickets here.
* CertifiKID has a new ZavaZone offer worth checking out.
* Many DC Libraries have reopened!
* PTA/PTO parents should check out Enrichment Matters, a provider of after school programs, for next fall!
* Join a virtual Juneteenth celebration through June 19.
* Arena Stage recently announced the 2021-22 season!
* President Lincoln Cottage just launched Lincoln’s Letters, subscription-based puzzle game played through mailed letters, that sounds pretty neat.
* Acorns is a neat, easy way to invest and save money — we’ve been signed up for a couple of years now! (Sharing my referral link that offers a little starter gift.)
* Excited about this space saving purchase!
* Currently obsessed with the Mexican thriller Who Killed Sara? on Netflix. Anyone else?
* Places I’m Excited to Go to Again

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June 4, 2021 · 8:38 am

The Weekend Round-Up: June 4-6

Stay cool and splash around at Yards Park

 

 

Happy Weekend!

Quick links for all kinds of ongoing fun:
* Best Outdoor Spots in the DC Area
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Peaceful Places
* Indoor Outings
* On the Water
* Bike Rides

Seize the Season
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
Catch an open-air concert at one of several series in the area. Stay cool at an outdoor pool, sprayground, or water park. See a movie under the stars. Check out a seasonal exhibit. Go berry picking. Ride mini-trains and carousels at local parks. And much, much more!  See the Summer 2019 Guide for details on all of these great pursuits.

Splash Around
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
This weekend is going to be a hot one.  Luckily, spray parks, outdoor pools, and waterparks  around the area have started welcoming guests to splash around and cool off.  The 2021 KFDC Summer Guide has details on where to go for water play — see info for sprays here, outdoor pools here, and waterparks here.

Open Swim
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This round-up of places to swim around the area will also come in handy as temps rise. Find beaches on the Bay (and even Atlantic), lakes and rivers, and swimming holes and creeks — all that welcome the public to take a dip!

Play Work Build
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $10/adult, $7/child
The much missed exhibition/play space at the recently reopened National Building Museum will once again welcome guests starting this weekend! Play Work Build first opened back in 2012 as a temporary exhibit, but everyone loved it so much, it became permanent. With old building toys on display (and some to play with), plus big foam blocks for constructing all kinds of configurations, it’s a fun place to bring the kids within the museum.  Capacity will be limited in the exhibit, and masks and hand sanitizing required.  Timed-entry passes to PWB are included with admission.  Plan to tour the rest of the exhibits and, of course, hang out in the Great Hall, one of the most stunning spaces in DC. Also, look out for the colorful front lawn in celebration of Pride Month!

Inside Info
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
If you’d rather stay cool indoors, there are plenty of options.  Smithsonians and other venues have started to open, but timed-entry tickets are required, so make sure to reserve in advance. All are taking extra precautions to ensure COVID safety, which includes limited capacity.

Capital Harvest on the Plaza
Where: Woodrow Wilson Plaza | Downtown DC
When: Friday, 11am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Browse produce from local farms and artisan producers right downtown at Capital Harvest on the Plaza (CHoP). The farmer’s market is opening for its 13th season and will continue weekly through the fall. The convenient location at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (13th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW) is fun to stop by after visiting museums or for people working in the area. with a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce and a range of delicious prepared foods.

KC Entertaiment
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
There may not be shows on Kennedy Center stages just yet, but you can enjoy all kinds of fun and entertainment at The REACH on weekends.  In celebration of Pride Month, Millennium Stage will present The Wig Party: A Capital Drag Festival on Friday and Saturday. Plus there will be dance lessons, yoga sessions, an arts market on the plaza, and the Victura Park pop-up offering snacks and sips in the beautiful outdoor area.

PG Drive-In
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Friday, 8:30
Admission: $30/vehicle
The Bowie Baysox and Prince George County organizations are presenting Drive-In Movies at Prince George’s Stadium on Friday evenings in June. This weekend, see Avengers: End Game. Lot opens at 7:30pm, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

Movies in the Park
Where: Virginia Highlands Park | National Landing, VA
When: Friday, 8pm
Admission: Free – pre-registration required
See a movie under the stars at the weekly series in National Landing. Moana will be on the big outdoor screen this time. Bring chairs and blanket, pack a picnic or grab food from Sweet Frog and Capital Chicken & Waffles food trucks…and sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Drive-In, in NoVa
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
You can also catch a flick from the comfort of your car in Virginia. See Guardians of the Galaxy on Friday night and Jurassic World on Saturday. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd. Purchase movie tickets in advance!

US Air Force Band Summer Concerts
Where: Air Force Memorial, VA & National Harbor, MD
When:Friday, 7:30-9pm & Saturday, 7-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Join The United States Air Force Band’s Concert Band for an evening of chamber music. Bring a chair and enjoy DC’s finest musicians playing some of the world’s finest music! Concerts are at the Air Force Memorial on Friday (1 Air Force Memorial Drive, Arlington VA) and at National Harbor’s waterfront on Saturday (Oxon Hill, MD). Parking info here and here.

Reap the Fruits (& Veggies)
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Strawberries, cherries, even spinach are ripe and ready for harvest, and many area farms welcome guests to come PYO. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm availability the day you plan to go. Sunscreen and hat also recommended.

Walk the Museum Walk
Where: Dupont-Kalorama Neighborhoods, DC
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free

Get off the Mall and explore the many interesting sights and museums in the Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood during the 38th annual Museum Walk Weekend.  Usually offering free admission and special programming at museums, this year is a bit different.  Five diverse museums — the Phillips Collection, Dumbarton House, the National Museum of American Jewish Military History, Anderson House, and the Woodrow Wilson House — have created a self-guided walking tour around the area.  Of course, you can still visit the museums, but be sure to check out guidelines and make sure tickets are available.

Virtual Pride Story Time
Where: American Art Museum Online
When: Saturday, 10am
Admission: Free
The Smithsonian American Art Museum’s annual Pride Month program celebrates inclusivity and love for all. Enjoy a lively virtual story time performance with legendary DC drag queen Ruth Allen Ginsburg. Ruth brings fun for the whole family as she reads classic nursery rhymes and tales for children.

Haunted Tales Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Where: Watson Adventures Online
When: Saturday, 7-8:30pm
Admission: $19
Are you prepared to Zoom with ghosts? Kids and adults team up to explore real places that are said to be haunted, and you’ll learn the tales of the ghosts who linger there. You’ll follow a trail of clues across eerie websites, in search of answers to tricky questions. Ghost-plagued places include the Hollywood Hotel where Marilyn Monroe and other celeb ghosts haven’t checked out; the White House in search of presidential ghosts, and the Salem Witch Trial Memorial where you’ll learn the chilling fate of Giles Corey, just to name a few.  For ages 10 and up. No previous knowledge is required. Teams of up to six can play together or remotely. Each team must have one adult. Advance booking is required.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* Tees for Pride Month
* Two giveaways going on: Enter for a chance to win a round-trip airport assistance experience with SkySquad and a free music lesson for your child with the International School of Music!
* There will be some road closures in Arlington this weekend for the Armed Forces Cycling Classic.
* This story about a herd of elephants roaming 300 miles in China is wild.
* If you haven’t tried Instacart yet, you can get free delivery on your first order of $35+ June 7-13.
* Honest Reasons Why Women Don’t Want to Go Back to Work in Person 😏
* Good one.
* Who else loved Solid Gold? ✨

 

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May 28, 2021 · 9:24 am

The Weekend Round-Up: May 28-31

 

Happy Long Weekend!

* Indoor Outings
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Bike Rides
* Swim Spots
* On the Water
* Peaceful Places
* Best Outdoor Spots in the DC Area
* Spring Things to Get Excited About (technically, it still is spring)

“Summer” Fun
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies by activity
It may not be official on the calendar, but “summer” is underway! Water fun, outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and more ongoing seasonal treats have begun or are about to begin in DC. Start the weekend with free entertainment and more fun at The REACH. Make a splash at an outdoor public pool or a spray ground, enjoy a special exhibit, and so much more. The 2021 KFDC Guide to Summer Around the DC Area has the scoop on where and when you can experience all the joys of season.

Cruise with Martha
Where: The Wharf, DC to Mount Vernon, VA
When: Friday, 9am – 3:15pm
Admission: $50/adult, $45/senior $29/age 2-11
Catch a water taxi from The Wharf in Southwest DC to Mount Vernon with a very special guide: Martha Washington! To launch the cruise season, the first First Lady will join guests on the boat ride. Of course, your ticket includes admission to the Mount Vernon grounds, though entry to the Mansion requires a tour ticket. And if you can’t make it on the cruise, a visit to Mount Vernon is great any day!

Nats vs. Brewers
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nets host the Brewers this weekend with an evening games on Friday and SAturday, and an afternoon match-up on Sunday. Single game tickets are now available to everyone, sold in socially distanced pods of one to six seats. Be sure to take a look at the Welcome Home page, so you know what to expect. We’ve been to a couple of games and can vouch for good safety measures — and a really good time for Nats fans.  I recommend bringing kiddos only if they’re truly into the game. The playground isn’t open for antsy kids to play, and getting ballpark treats is a little less fun and convenient with the new mobile ordering system. But those who are into the game will love being back at the ballpark!

The REACH Reopens
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Free
The Kennedy Center’s extension for arts immersion reopens this weekend  — and it’s bringing Millennium Stage, the long beloved and much missed free entertainment program, with it. On the REACH plaza from Thursdays to Saturday through October 2, there will be films, live shows, arts vendors, dance and yoga lessons, plus food and drinks for sale at Victura Park!  You need to register for tickets in advance.  (Note: Looks like it’s sold out this weekend, but you can register for next weekend starting at 10am on Friday.  And Victura Park, the family-friendly pop-up wine garden, will be open and you can pop in!]

Inside Outings
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
With rain in the forecast, you may be seeking out places to play indoors. There are plenty of options for them, especially as Smithsonians and other venues have started to open. All are taking extra precautions to ensure COVID safety, which includes limited capacity and reserving tickets in advance.

Spring Drive-In Movie Series
Where: The Stacks at Buzzard Point | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Friday & Saturday, 8pm
Admission: $20/car
It’s the final weekend of the Capitol Riverfront BID’s drive-in movie series, a fun, contact-free experience for all ages at an appropriate social distance. Not the most family-friendly, but very hilarious, Bridesmaids will be screened on Friday, Get on Up will be shown on Saturday, and Ocean’s Eight on Sunday. Even more, all funds are donated to local charities — this weekend proceeds benefit Capital Area Food Bank, Anacostia Riverkeeper, and DC Central Kitchen.

Drive-In, in NoVa
Where: Alexandria Drive-In Movie Theater | Alexandria, VA
When: Friday, 8pm
Admission: $40/car
You can also catch a flick from the comfort of your car in Virginia. See everyone’s favorite ogre Shrek on Friday night. Food trucks will be there both nights offering savory and sweet concessions with online ordering through Goodfynd. Purchase movie tickets in advance!

Water, Water Everywhere
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
Two of the most popular places for water play, Yards Park and Canal Park reopen on Friday!  Spray parks and outdoor pools within the DC Department of Parks and Rec system reopen to the public starting Saturday!  And some area waterparks will start welcoming guests to the slides and wave pools, too. The weather this weekend may not be the most conducive to splashing around (unless it’s in the rain), but given that these places are finally accessible again after nearly two years, inclusion here seems mandatory. And, who knows, maybe the forecast will surprise us! The 2021 KFDC Summer Guide has details on even more places for water play — see where to play in sprays here and swim in outdoor pools here.

ViVa! Vienna!
Where: Historic Downtown Vienna, VA
When: Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Admission: Free
Vienna’s community celebration is back. The family-friendly Memorial Day weekend includes lots of all ages fun — amusement rides, food, crafts, vendors, and entertainment. Even better, 100% of proceeds go to charitable, community, and humanitarian organizations. Safety measures are in places for Covid — see them on the website.

Charm City Fun, Hon
Where: Baltimore, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
There are a bunch of great places to visit with the fam in our sister city, Baltimore, just 45 minutes up I-95. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. Play the day away at Port Discovery. 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 historic ships at the Inner Harbor.  Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry.  All of these places require advance reservations, so be sure to book ahead.

Glow With It
Where: Around Georgetown
When: Through June 27
Admission: Free
A great evening activity with the fam: Dinner in Georgetown, then a stroll around the neighborhood to see Georgetown Glow, the free outdoor public art experience featuring modern light art installations. Find a map of them here and plan your walking route. A few restaurant recs: Pizzeria Paradiso, Farmers Fishers Bakers, Pinstripes, and Peacock Cafe.

Strawberry Jubilee
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $12/child, $14/adult
The longest running strawberry festival in Loudoun County takes place this weekend and next, rain or shine. Get ready for lots of fun activities for all ages, including the popular diaper derby, pie-eating contests, tart toss, strawberry princess, great food, and live music. As if that’s not enough to keep the family entertained for the day, there’s also the five-acre play area, complete with the jumping pillow, slides, rope swings, mazes, a tractor tire mountain, and animal encounters. Get tickets in advance!

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

Salute the Sunset Summer Concert
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: Saturday & Monday, 7-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Saturday May 29 and Monday May 31, 7:00 – 8:30
Join The United States Air Force Band’s Airmen of Note for the first concert of the annual “Salute the Sunset” series at National Harbor. Enjoy jazz favorites and beautiful views under the open sky! Free concert, no tickets required. Garage and street parking available.

Wizard School Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Watson Adventures Online
When: Saturday, 4-5:30pm
Admission: $19
Grab your wizarding wands for an adventure that takes you to museums across America in search of art that echoes characters, places, and magical objects in the famed Harry Potter books and movies. No, you won’t need the Weasleys’ flying car: You’ll sit at your home computer, join your teammates via Zoom, and use the Watson Adventures online app to get clues, pop onto museum websites, and search for answers to fun, tricky questions on this virtual scavenger hunt. For about ages 8 and up. We’ve done the IRL version of this, and it’s super fun! We’ve also joined a virtual program with Watson Adventures and had a blast!

Tour Memorials on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
On Memorial Day Weekend, pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our country by visiting the memorials on the National Mall that honor them.  A loop of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial and WWII Memorial make for a good walk.  On Monday 9-10am, there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the WWII Memorial — the public is invited, but register in advance. There will also be a ceremony at the Vietnam Memorial on Monday 1-2pm with limited access (so plan to visit the Memorial another time that day or even Saturday or Sunday).

Reopening | Pay Respects
Where: Arlington National Cemetery | Arlington, VA
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
Observe the holiday at one of the most iconic spots to honor those who have served… Arlington National Cemetery is once again open to the public.  However, the reopening plus the holiday weekend could bring the crowds.  Be sure to see these tips and info for visiting before you go.  The traditional wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is NOT open to the public this year.  But the Cemetery is still a fitting place for a visit on this holiday weekend. Read more about Arlington National Cemetery in this KFDC post.

Virtual Memorial Day Observances
Where: Televised
When: Monday
Admission: Free
Both the annual National Memorial Day Parade and Memorial Day Concert are happening, however, the public is not invited to be part of the in-person audience. Instead, both events will be televised, the parade on WJLA and the concert on PBS.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* There’s a new giveaway going on for a chance to win a free music lesson for your child with the International School of Music!
* The Classes & Camps page on the blog has quick links to info about all kinds of, well, classes and camps around the area that have been promoted here on KFDC.
* The Shakespeare Theatre Company just announced its 2021-22 season, and subscriptions are available! (I am so intrigued by and admittedly excited about this one!)
* Memorial Day sale round-ups:  Clothes & Home.
* Memorial Day menu ideas (refreshments start at #26 😉).
* In case you haven’t seen it over the past week, this totally rocks. (And not just because of their name.😁)
* #OptOutside 💚

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