Holiday Options – Page 18

Day off camps and activities in and around Washington, DC

September 18, 2018

Is your child off from school and you don’t know how to keep their mind active, stay sane or be able to go to work? With a few school off-days and holidays approaching, check these places out before calling a babysitter or taking the day off. Consider asking your child’s friends to join them so they are less likely to complain at the idea. We’ll keep adding to the list as we build it– so please add your suggestions in the comments below! Most of these also host holiday and summer camps.

Mini Camp at Hoop ED
(Various locations)
Sports overload for girls and boys from 9:00am-3:00pm for $60. After care available. Many locations and dates!

Red Panda Art Studio
(Bethesda, MD)
Extended Workshops for School Days off! 9:00am-12:30pm, option to extend until 2:00pm. Ages 3 to 8. Join us for a full morning of sensory play and art activities related to the day’s theme. Please bring along a nut-free snack and lunch— and something to drink!

The St. James Ultimate Sports Camp
(Springfield, VA)
Campers will get to experience all the St. James has to offer, from basketball and rock climbing to ice skating and splashing at their Waterpark. Camp is from 9:00am-4:00pm.

The Children’s Art Studio:
(NW Washington)
Workshops meet from 9:00am-2:00pm. Workshops are for children 5 years old an up.

Little Loft Art
(Takoma Park, MD)
Come to Little Loft on school days off! Full day camps for children in grades K-3, 9:00-3:30. Aftercare available until 6:00 where noted.

Capitol Language Services
(Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church: 4900 Connecticut Ave NW, Wahington, DC 20008)
Camps during DC Public School Closing, Holidays and Federal Holidays – Sign up for the whole year and pay a non-refundable fee of $870 instead of $960. – Or sign up only for the camps you need.

DC Way Soccer
(Tyler Elementary School: 1001 G St SE, Washington, DC 20003)
At DC Way camps, the philosophy is that players learn best when they are having fun. They use simple and engaging games to challenge players and teach them essential skills. The program is for anyone at any level. Even without ever playing before, they guarantee your child will enjoy our camp. They create a soccer-related environment with lots of exciting and challenging activities to ensure falling in love with soccer and sports in general. Focusing on speed, footwork, 1v1 moves, creativity, vision, confidence.

Meet the Instrument No School Day Camp at National Conservancy of Arts
(NW & SW Locations)
Give your child a full day of fun on their out of school day! This camp is active and full of challenges with music lessons, music classes, music games, and art class. This camp will welcome a guest musician, who will introduce the cello. Hands-on experiences and opportunities to sing familiar songs with each instrument are a part of the curriculum, and children begin to develop an awareness of the distinctions among instrument families. Music exploration focus on repertoire that highlights each instrument’s unique qualities, supported by group singing, movement activities and, when developmentally appropriate, an introduction to notation. Camp starts at 9 am with watercolor painting, and then musical yoga. At noon we have cheese pizza or hot dogs for lunch and recess at 12:30 pm. Morning and afternoon snacks included. 9am – 3:30pm– before and after care available

Dulles Sportsplex
(21610 Atlantic Blvd., Sterling, VA 20166)
Bring your child to the Dulles Sportsplex for a day of fun when kids have off from school. If your child is between 6-12 and enjoys sports or wants to try new sports, this is the place for them. Your child will have fun, learning and playing sports. A few sports they may try are flag football, soccer, wiffleball, volleyball, basketball, kickball, team handball and others. Costs include lunch- $45 (Full day: 9am-2pm) and $65 (Extended day: 8am-6pm)

The Player Progression Academy Camps
(Location depends on type of camp)
PPA Soccer and Hoops camps offer a great opportunity for players to continue their development and enjoy the quality coaching and environment during the summer and other school holidays that PPA offers throughout the year.

Arlington Parks and Rec Camp
(Location depends on type of camp)
Kids in grades K-5th will enjoy a variety of engaging activities including cooperative games, sports, nature fun & creative arts! Participants will choose from structured leisure activities during extended hours. Participants must bring a lunch and snacks. Various camps to choose from.

Valley Mill
(15101 Seneca Rd, Darnestown, MD 20874)
Weather permitting, we’ll do our usual fun activities at camp: kayaking and canoeing, archery & air rifle, rock climbing, group games, playing in the creek, and hikes. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll check out some indoor adventures. Tuition per day for Holiday Camp including transportation: $100 for ages 5-14. Transportation will be from pick up points in nearby Montgomery County and DC.

Calleva
(13015 Riley’s Lock Rd. Poolesville, MD. 20837)
Calleva’s Maryland camps are all of your old favorites including, Cubs, Explorers, EXPX, Adventure camp, Leaders In Training, and High Adventures. All of these camps are based out of our Riley’s Lock campus on the Potomac River. Transportation is provided for free, and buses pick up from many Maryland and D.C. locations, as well as one stop in Mclean, VA.

Urban Adventure Squad (UAS)
(Location depends on day)
Each adventure day has a unique curriculum that is aimed at engaging Squad members at their own levels. UAS researches and plans their programs very carefully to make sure that Squad members stay physically active, intellectually stimulated, and engaged with community. Squad members hike in snowy woods, meet people with amazing jobs (folk singers, chefs, environmental educators, local composers), harvest lunch from urban gardens, visit former presidents’ homes, go on scavenger hunts, create art and music masterpieces, lead service projects, and so much more!The programs run 8:45am-4:00pm each day and offer easy, drive-up pickup and drop-off. The cost is $70 per day, and all siblings are $50 per day. Cost includes snacks and transportation (Bus/Metro).

DC Department of Parks and Recreation offer Fun Day
(Various locations)
A single-day program offering fun and enriching activities (such as sports activities, arts & crafts, and more) for children ages 6 – 12 years old from 9:00am-5:00pm. DPR strives to meet the needs of District families when the District’s public schools have planned closures. 12 DPR sites will hold Fun Day. Online pre-registration is required however there is no fee or application.

Round House Theatre
(925 Wayne Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910)
A full day of theatrical fun for grades K – 5 at the Round House Theatre Education Center when Montgomery County Public Schools are closed. Round House Education invites students to collaborate with their peers to create an original play in just one day! Each “Day Off!” features a new and exciting story genre to explore as well as a unique specialty skill. Specialties will include dance, music, puppetry, movement, or unique disciplines in the performing arts. 9:00am-5:30pm for $75.

Silver Stars Gymnastics
(2701 Pittman Drive Silver Spring, Maryland 20910)
(Also locations in Bowie, MD)
Gymnastics camp is appropriate for the beginner, intermediate and advanced gymnast. Your child will be able to build an athletic foundation for all sports through the strength, flexibility and coordination that only the challenge of gymnastics can offer. Full Day: 8:30am-4:30pm, $65.00; Half Day: 9:00am-12:00pm, $50.00; Before and after care available.

Adventure Theatre School’s Out Day Camp
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC and put your hours in at the office worry free – your kids will thank you (and so will your boss)! Kids in Grades K-5 are invited to come play from 8:50am-4:00pm. A full day of theatrical activities including a showing of a performance on their main stage.

A family-friendly Labor Day in Washington, DC

August 29, 2018

64th Annual Greenbelt Parade and Festival takes place Aug. 31 – Sept. 3

The Washington Nats are hosting the Brewers Labor Day weekend and have fun promotions happening.

Labor Day Art Show at Glen Echo

Saturday

Lake Ann Jazz Festival

Sunday

National Symphony Orchestra: Labor Day Capitol Concert

Monday

Herndon Labor Day Festival

Kensington, Maryland 51st Annual Parade and Festival

Old Towne Gaithersburg Parade

Don’t miss:
The National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party Series, Fun House which closes September 3
18th Library of Congress National Book Festival at the Washington Convention Center on September 1
Splashing around

Day & overnight trips:

Day or overnight trips to the beach or a state park

In Shenandoah National Park, hike from waterfall to waterfall, climb the rocky Old Rag Mountain, go biking or take a guided horseback ride. If you need to cool off, head over to Shenandoah River Outfitters and go rafting, tubing or kayaking on the shady river. 75 miles from downtown D.C. at its northernmost point; see all park entrances here.

Take a step back in time in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Although West Virginia is a small state, it’s packed with history and beautiful scenery. Kids will have fun visiting this National Historical Park. Visit Harpers Ferry for the Civil War history and re-enactors. Hike one of the many trails in the area for a spectacular view of three states—West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland—at once. Amtrak provides one train from Union Station to Harpers Ferry per day but it’s a short at about 67 miles from D.C. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center can get your hooked up with kayaks, tubes and more if you’re feeling adventurous.

July 4th in and around Washington, DC

July 2, 2018

(Photo: National Archives)

Have a safe and fun July 4th celebrating in the most perfect place; the nation’s capital! Be sure to check our Instagram for last minute parades and celebrations.

Grab some Washington Nationals tickets and cheer for the home as they are playing at home July 2-8, 2018.
July 3: 6:05pm: Nationals will play the Red Sox with postgame Freedom Fireworks!
July 4: 11:05am: Nationals will play the Red Sox. No fireworks but a nice way to spend the holiday and is part of the Patriotic Series.

10:00am-11:00am: Declaration of Independence Reading at the National Archives
Greetings from Allison Seymour, Fox 5 News Anchor. Presentation of colors by the Continental Color Guard. National Anthem by Caleb Green. Performance by the 3rd U.S. Infantry “The Old Guard” Fife and Drum Corps. Remarks by David S. Ferriero, Archivist of the United States. Keynote remarks by Laura Murphy, descendant of Signer Philip Livingston of New York. Dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by special guests including Abigail Adams, John Adams, John Dunlap, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. “America the Beautiful” by Caleb Green.

10:00am-4:00pm: Inside the National Archives Building
Come celebrate like it it’s 1776! Enjoy hands-on family activities, including story time, crafts and more! Meet John and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. Collect autographs, Declaring Independence scavenger hunt, Listen to stories of our patriotic past (noon, 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m.), Make colonial-style wigs and dress in period clothing, Sign the Declaration of Independence, Write with a quill pen & Set your name in type. Watch the National Independence Day Parade go by outside the National Archives at 11:45am.

11:45am-2:00pm: National Independence Day Parade
Get your spot along Constitution Ave where the parade will travel from 7th St to 17th St. Show your kiddos the balloons, floats, military units, bands and much more. Be prepared for a large crowd.

Noon-4:00pm: 4th of July Summer Party at District Wharf
Happy July 4th! We’re ringing in 242 years of American independence with a kid-friendly party on Transit Pier. The celebration starts at 12pm with live music from Rocknoceros, a local kids’ music band that’ll have your little ones rolling with laughter. Listen and watch, or queue up for face painting, games and a waterslide on the pier. For the adults in the crowd, the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden opens at 1pm for drinks and snacks, and Thongband will play live, patriotic music at 2pm!

All Day: National Mall Independence Day Celebration
It’s the biggest holiday in the Nation’s Capital! In addition to events on the National Mall, visitors can celebrate with special activities at Frederick Douglass’s Cedar Hill estate in Anacostia, or enjoy the fireworks from a number of national parks in and around the city. See schedule of events above.

8:00pm-9:30pm: A Capitol Fourth Concert
Gates open at 3:00pm and the concert begins at 8:00pm and airs on PBS and can be heard on NPR. Admission is free. They typically have a dress rehearsal on July 3 if you want to skip the larger crowd. Broadcast live on PBS from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, this time-honored 38 year-tradition puts viewers front and center for America’s biggest birthday party with the greatest display of fireworks anywhere in the nation lighting up the iconic D.C. skyline.

9:00pm: Fireworks
Fireworks will be launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool area, and will be visible from many locations in D.C. and Virginia.

Other viewing areas for the Mall fireworks:
Washington DC: U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, The White House Ellipse, West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park, Anacostia Park

Virginia: U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the George Washington Memorial Parkway

A few other fun celebrations happening:

July 4: 8:00am-5:00pm: An American Celebration at Mount Vernon

July 4: Noon-Dusk: Frederick’s 4th

July 4: 3:00pm-10:00pm: Historic Manassas Celebrates America

July 4: 6:00pm: Annapolis Fourth of July

July 4: 6:00pm: Falls Church Music & Fireworks

Posts you may be interested in:

Best Ice Cream in DC

Where Kids Eat Free

Memorial Day Weekend in and around Washington, DC 2018

May 25, 2018

With the holiday weekend among us, we’ve chosen a few well-known picks that pay tribute to Memorial Day in addition to some familiar events. We’ve also put together a short list of suggested day trips that won’t keep you and your family in the car too long but will get you “away”. An obvious and free pick is to visit the various memorials along the Mall. Many events at Arlington National Cemetery can be found here. Info on Rolling Thunder can be found here.

Have you entered our current giveaways? A free month of classes at MOCO Movement? Tickets to see In the Clouds at Arts on the Horizon? Movie passes to see Adrift?

The Big Bounce America is taking over Washington, DC this weekend; 10,000 square feet of bounce fun.

And of course the kids haven’t let you forget the pools open this weekend. Here is a list of Washington, DC pools with hours and addresses. All outdoor pools and splash pads will open Memorial Day weekend and will operate on a weekend schedule through June 17.

Not a pool person? Let your child run around and splash in the spray parks or hit a waterpark (see the bottom of the list). A few sprays in DC are The Yards Park and Georgetown Waterfront Park and a list of spraygrounds in Arlington.

Friday

5:00pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
National Gallery of Art’s 2018 Jazz in the Garden lineup features acclaimed musicians presenting a wide variety of jazz styles—swing, funk, hip-hop, Latin, go-go, ska, Dixieland, blues, and more. Every Friday evening from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. through August 24, 2018, the Gallery will invite visitors to find a seat among the monumental works of art in the Sculpture Garden and enjoy one of the city’s favorite summertime activities. To date, more than 1,735,000 visitors have started their weekend off with the long-standing concert series. Pack a picnic or purchase food there.

6:30pm: Four Mile Summer Movie Festival at Four Mile Conservatory Building-Featured movie: Coco
Bring your friends, family and neighbors for games, giveaways, popcorn, picnicking, and of course, great films under the stars. Movies start at dusk and are screened with Spanish subtitles. We encourage moviegoers to bring chairs, because this year’s location will be on asphalt. Bring blankets, outdoor games, and picnic coolers when the fun starts at 6:30 pm.

7:00pm-9:00pm: Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 8th Season. Every Friday night this summer, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike.

Saturday

10:00am: Kids Can Cook at Frying Pan Park
Programs at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Create a healthy snack with food straight from Kidwell Farm. Participants get to harvest tasty treats from the garden and learn fun ways to put them together to make kid-friendly dishes. Children must be accompanied by an adult registered in the program.

11:00am-3:00pm: DC Duck Race
The 3rd annual D.C. Duck Race is at The Yards Park along the Anacostia River. This fun event and festival brings the community together in support of local non-profits and organizations and is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Washington, D.C. through a collaboration with the Capitol Riverfront BID. The race will begin at 2 PM!

9:00am-5:00pm: Strawberry Jubilee Festival at Great Country Farms is the longest running strawberry festival in Loudoun County. To celebrate the royal strawberry, our Jubilee is packed with live music, farm contests, wagon rides, a visit from the Strawberry Princess, great food and fun games for the whole family! (Taking place on Sunday also).

10:00am-5:00pm: Delaplane Strawberry Festival allow you to enjoy hayrides, old fashioned field games, dancing, music, magic, storytelling, crafts, a petting farm, bake sale, hikes in the shadow of the Appalachian Trail, face painting, cake-walking, Corn Hole, a monkey and much more! (Taking place on Sunday also).

Sunday

2:00pm: National Memorial Day Parade
The National Memorial Day Parade, held annually along Constitution Avenue in our nation’s capital – Washington, DC – shares the story of American honor and sacrifice from across the generations. The parade, commemorating its fourteenth year, is our nation’s largest Memorial Day event, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators to the National Mall to pay tribute to those who have served, are serving, and most importantly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in service to our country.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor- Featured movie: The Lego Batman Movie
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor. Pack your picnic blankets, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages! Please note that movies will begin at 6:00pm and will be shown once, so end times may vary with each movie. A schedule of movies to be shown can be viewed below. (They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm.)

8:00pm-9:30pm: National Memorial Day Concert
Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public. The gates open at 5:00pm and the concert begins at 8:00pm.

Day (or overnight) trips-

Shenandoah National Park

North Shore Beach

Harpers Ferry

Luray Caverns

Mom picks this weekend in and around Washington, DC

May 11, 2018

Happy Mother’s Day to all!! We’ve found some fun things families can do together. And, in case you still need brunch plans for that special Mama, here’s a list of some family friendly places. Find more ideas on our Instagram & Facebook pages!

The Kennedy Center is hosting Artes de Cuba through May 20.

Friday-

5:30pm-8:00pm: Pajama Party at Hillwood Estate & Museum
Embark on a magical adventure as you enjoy short films featuring all sorts of fanciful creatures from friendly dragons to the monster under the bed. Before the movie begins, relax in the gardens and enjoy a picnic on the lawn. Sandwiches, drinks and snacks, including popcorn and other movie treats, will be available for purchase from the Cafe’s express menu. Hunt for knights and dragons in artwork displayed in the mansion and make your own work of art: decorative medals to celebrate your bravery, inspired by honorary knight’s badges in Hillwood’s collection. Bring pajamas, pillows, blankets, and cushions from home to get cozy as you head indoors and settle in for the film screening. Enjoy a selection of award-winning, family-friendly short films.

6:00pm-10:00pm: Drive-in at Union Market: Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark
The Drive-In at Union Market is back for a new season — from May through November — our biggest season yet! $10 parking fee per car. Advance purchase is highly recommended. Free for walk-ups. (Synopsis: Archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis. 1h 55 min, rated PG) Lot opens at 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 8:15, Film begins 8:30; Film ends at 10:25

Saturday-

9:00am-5:00pm: Mothers Day Weekend at Mount Vernon
Join the “Mother of our Country”, Martha Washington, for Mother’s Day weekend at Mount Vernon! Stroll through Mount Vernon’s magnificent gardens in bloom. Lady Washington will give lavender sachets to all mothers (while supplies last).

10:00am-3:00pm: Frying Pan Farm Park Spring Farm Day
Watch sheep shearing and antique farm equipment demonstrations. Participate in hands-on farm activities such as cow and goat milking. Enjoy crafts, games, and get an up-close introduction to the baby farm animals. Walk-ins welcome $8 at the door.

10:00am-1:00pm: Acton Children’s Business Festival
Outdoor market with over 100 young entrepreneurs ages 6 to 14. Shop original board games, Star-Wars-themed noodles, tooth fairy monsters, hand-dyed jump ropes, race car crayons, and more! (Rain date is Saturday, May 19, 10am to 1pm)

10:00am-6:00pm: Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
Delight in fine art created by 130 of the nation’s best artists, live entertainment and Bethesda restaurants. Children’s area will be on Auburn Ave. Festival takes up space from Bethesda Woodmont Triangle, Norfolk Ave., between Auburn and Del Ray Aves.

11:00am-12:00pm: InterAct KidStory Theatre Festival
It’s that time of year again! Join InterAct Story Theatre as we present the second annual KidStory Theatre Festival: A celebration of stories for kids, by kids! Throughout the year, InterAct’s artists help students craft unique stories and share some of them on stage. We take a handful of these stories and transform them into short plays, musical numbers or theatrical vignettes, all so we can share the creativity of kids at this wonderful FREE event. This year’s selections come from Prince George’s County Public Schools, Montgomery County Public Schools, Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS), DC Public Schools and more!

11:00am-1:00pm: Nibble+Squeak Mother’s Day Lunch at Plume
Nibble+squeak will be hosting a very special, Mother’s Day Weekend lunch at Plume. Nibble+Squeak is a community of “parents with pipsqueaks” who love to eat! A family-friendly resource for restaurant dining, we host private events that allow everyone to relax and enjoy the meal, in a welcoming and worry-free environment. As the recent recipient of one star from the prestigious Michelin Guide and the only Forbes five star rated restaurant in Washington, DC, Plume at The Jefferson serves as a discreet and elegant backdrop to the artistry of an award-winning culinary team. Savor classic dishes crafted using traditional techniques and a seasonal menu inspired by the harvest from Thomas Jefferson’s kitchen gardens at Monticello.

1:00pm-12:00am: Funk Parade
Funk Parade is a one-of-a-kind day fair, parade and music festival, celebrating Washington DC’s vibrant music, culture, and arts, the U Street neighborhood, and the Spirit of Funk that brings us all together. Day Fair 1-7pm, Parade is 5-6pm, Music Fest 7pm-12am and the Showcase is at 8pm.

6:00pm-8:00pm: Mother’s Day Wine Tasting at Firehook Cleveland Park Garden
Join us in celebrating all the wonderful moms in our community! Wine tasting will begin at 6 PM, and feature 3 tastings, $5 glasses, complementary small bites and a new pop-up menu! Come enjoy beautiful weather, fine wine, and delicious, local food in our neighborhood garden! All ages are welcome ( Must be 21 to purchase/consume alcohol).

Sunday-

9:00am-10:30am: Littlest Critters class at National Zoo
Celebrate Mother’s Day with some of our favorite new moms and babies at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo! Bring your little critter and get to know some of our favorite Zoo babies, including our juvenile orangutan Redd and baby gorilla Moke. Friends of the National Zoo preschool classes are designed for children ages 2-3 to discover a whole new view of the National Zoo. “Adult-and-me” format classes use interactive learning stations, hands-on activities and crafts, Nature Play, and exciting Zoo Walks to engage your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity about wildlife and the natural world. Pre-registration is required. “Littlest Critters” will run on Sunday, May 13 from 9-10:30a.m. $28/child for FONZ members. $35/child for non-members. Registration fee covers one child with adult.

10:00am-4:00pm: Mother’s Day Brunch at Pinstripes
Treat mom to an expansive bottomless brunch this Mother’s Day and then a game of bowling or bocce! Indulge in favorites like made-to-order omelets, carved prime rib and fresh shrimp, bagels with spreads and smoked salmon, flatbreads, waffles ‘her-way’ topped with berries, bananas foster or Nutella, plus a chocolate fountain for dessert. Moms will be especially encouraged to sit back and relax with mimosas and bloody Mary’s as the kids are taken care of at the ‘Kids Corner’ station with pizzas, chicken fingers, Mac and cheese and more. Adults $40, includes bottomless mimosas or $34 without Mimosas | Kids 6-12 $15 | Kids 5 & Under: Free | $4 Mimosas & $7 Bloody Marys available all day. Please call to make a reservation!

10:00am-5:00pm: Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
Delight in fine art created by 130 of the nation’s best artists, live entertainment and Bethesda restaurants. Children’s area will be on Auburn Ave. Festival takes up space from Bethesda Woodmont Triangle, Norfolk Ave., between Auburn and Del Ray Aves.

11:00am-2:00pm: Mother’s Day Tour of the Rose Garden
Is your Mom breathtakingly beautiful, cuddly or–oh my goodness–ferociously thorny? Does she flit like a butterfly or prefer walks in sensible shoes? We have just the right rose and rose story for her. Bring your Mom to stroll the paths, hear the rose’s stories, and enjoy our beautiful rose garden. Please note: This tour is held outdoors. We suggest wearing sunscreen and protective clothing and bringing water. The tour is canceled if it rains or during times of extreme heat (head index of 95 degrees or higher/Code Red weather alert).

12:00pm-2:00pm: Fluffness at The Plaza at CityCenter
They will be passing out free cotton candy to celebrate Mother’s Day. After taking mom on a stroll through Palmer Alley or after enjoying brunch at one of our restaurants, make sure to stop by the Fluffness cotton candy cart to make her special day even sweeter!

1:00pm-4:00pm: Celebrate Mothers Day at United States Botanic Garden
Looking for a fun way to celebrate Mother’s Day? Join Lee and Danielle to explore the Wall Flowers exhibit as you make your own oversized flower to take home. Afterwards, learn how to make (and taste) several healthy recipes you can make for your mom. Please note: This is a drop-in program and appropriate for ages 7 and up.

1:00pm: Free movie screening of Book Club + Pampering at Mazza
The screening begins at 2:00pm, but beforehand there will be a Mother’s Day tea in a private room at the movie theater. The pre-party tea will include snacks, tea, complimentary massages, a photobooth, and makeup touchups by the Glam Squad! There are also some prize packs to give away at the screening.

6:00pm: Despicable Me 3 at National Harbor
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than movie nights at National Harbor. Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza screen for a free evening of fun!

Shows:
Judy Moody at Adventure Theatre plays all weekend long with some extra treasures! Saturday & Sunday at 11am & 2pm.

Robin Hood at Imagination Stage plays at 1:30pm & 4pm on Saturday & Sunday.

Make a donation to DC Diaper Bank and support other Mom’s.

We Care For Moms; Mother’s Day Initiative for Eliana’s Light

April 17, 2018

We are teaming up with Eliana’s Light again after such an extremely successful Valentine’s Day Initiative, thanks to YOU! Help us celebrate all of the Mama’s and Caregivers for the 2nd Annual We Care For Moms Initiative! Eliana‘s Light, a local non-profit organization, is organizing caring members of our community to collaborate with us to develop gift bags for moms who will be spending Mother’s Day in the hospital to care for their child/ren who has/have a complex medical condition. There are various ways you can show your support for these moms! Below are some ideas but you are more than welcome to come up with your own. All gifts, donations and contributions are needed by May 8, 2018. We thank you in advance for your interest.

1. Organize a group of friends to make lavender sachets, aromatherapy putty, or a baked good at your house. Eliana’s Light can provide the supplies and recipes if necessary.

2. Make an in-kind donation of supplies for others to make crafts or baked goods for moms who will be at local hospitals over Mother’s Day. We have various options on our Amazon Wish List.

3. Donate a small self-care item from your business, or ask a local business you know to make a donation. We welcome lotions, gift certificates, and other self-care items you think would be appropriate for these moms.

4. Give a financial donation to enable Eliana’s Light to purchase ingredients and supplies.

5. Introduce Eliana’s Light to a corporation that could provide items you think moms would love.

6. Coordinate a used book drive to donate gently read books to Mom’s.

The options are endless! Let’s make these Mama’s feel extra special. If you are interested please email Whitney
or BeltwayBambinos.

Tax Day Steals and Deals

April 16, 2018

Tax Day is tomorrow…. With the help of Forbes we have rounded up some Tax Day Deals and Freebies in our area to help celebrate Tax Day being behind us. Take advantage of these deals whether it be a discounted before school breakfast for the kiddos, a treat or a discounted hotel stay.

Food

Thanks to Great American Cookie Company, Tax Day will once again be pretty sweet. The national gourmet cookie shop will continue its annual Tax Day tradition by offering a free Cookies & Cream cookie to customers who stop by participating stores on April 17. Limit one per customer, while supplies last. According to the company’s Executive Vice President, David Kaiser, “Tax Day can be a bit of a bummer so our annual cookie freebie is our way of ‘sharing the fun of cookies’ and helping everyone take a delicious bite out of Tax Day stress.”
On Tuesday, April 17, any guest who dines in-restaurant at Boston Market can get a $10.40 Tax Day Meal Special, which includes a Half Chicken Individual Meal with 2 sides, cornbread, a regular fountain beverage and a cookie.
Bruegger’s Bagels brings back its annual Tax Day deal for a whole week, April 11-17, to match the extended tax filing season and lighten taxpayers’ load. Starting April 11, participating bakeries will offer Bruegger’s famous Big Bagel Bundle for just $10.40 with a downloadable coupon from the company’s website– a significant $3.50 “deduction” from the standard price.
Firehouse Subs is inviting guests to stop by to receive a free medium sub when they purchase a full price medium or large sub, chips and a drink (valid Tuesday, April 17 through Thursday, April 19, 2018). Please click here for a link to the offer.
California Tortilla.Get a free order of small chips and queso with any purchase Tuesday. You have to say “chipping in.”
Chuck E Cheese. This tax season, families can enjoy a guaranteed return at Chuck E. Cheese. The Tax Day (Tue, 4/17 – Thurs, 4/19) offer: Buy any large pizza, get one large cheese pizza free. U.S. only.
The Hamilton Hotel Washington D.C. Located in the heart of D.C., The Hamilton Hotel is offering a special “$1.4 Trillion Dollar Cocktail” – a delicious respite from the steadily rising national deficit – made with “conservative” amounts of Absolut Elyx, Blood Oranges, Elderflower Liquor and Passion Fruit Juice at the hotel’s restaurant and bar, 14k Restaurant. Appropriately priced at $14, the Hamilton Hotel encourages patrons to write this boozy cocktail off and de-stress this Tax Day.
Corner Bakery Café: Tuesday through Thursday you can mix and match two breakfast, lunch or dinner items for $10.40 at participating locations.
P.F. Chang’s On April 17, this popular Asian-themed chain is giving a 15% discount to diners at every location across the country. Discount not valid on drinks or Happy Hour food.
Tax Day is here and Potbelly Sandwich Shop is offering deals that will put some ease on your wallet. Customers who sign up for Potbelly Perks by downloading the Potbelly app (iPhone/Android) or online will receive a free sandwich (the free sandwich offer ends when 75,000 sandwiches have been given away). Those already enrolled in Potbelly Perks can enjoy a BOGO Sandwich that will automatically load into the app for redemption on Tax Day (April 17).

Traveling and Services

Marriott International in DC. Marriott International’s hotels in Washington, DC are encouraging travelers to enjoy their “returns” and do more by saving more with the Tax Day Deal. For two weeks only, April 11 through April 25, 2018, travelers can save up to 25% off best available weekend rates for stays June 29 – September 3, 2018. Rates are per room and exclude tax and gratuities. Offer valid Friday through Sunday. Terms and conditions apply. To book your reservation at participating hotels click here , and refer to promotional code SPU.
The Omni Homestead Resort. The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA, is offering a special: Book one night and the second night is just $25. You must book by 4/20/2018; valid for stays between 4/17/2018 – 12/22/2018.
Thinking of spending your tax refund in Europe? Rail Europe is offering travelers $25 off for $400 bookings made through April 24. Use code: TAXDAYRE18.

Emancipation Day camps and activities

April 12, 2018

Emancipation Day is on April 16, 2018 which means some schools are cancelled. Below are a few camps and activities to keep your Bambinos entertained!

DC Emancipation Stoddert Day Camp

DC Emancipation Day, April 16th, is approaching quickly, and with DC Public Schools out we’re excited for a full day of soccer at Deal Middle School! This day will be a fun-filled soccer experience led by DC Stoddert Soccer’s Professional Coaching Staff. Players will sharpen their soccer skills through fun games and activities.

Players will be grouped with friends, classmates and players of relative skill level. Full day players bring a lunch, half day players bring a snack. Every player should bring a soccer ball and wear appropriate soccer attire and shoes.

Home Run Baseball Camp at Friendship Recreation Center

Camp staff will lead a high energy workout for ages 4-12. Players can expect two games and long rounds of batting practice, ground balls and fly balls. Half day and full day options.

Hoop ED Day Camp at Stoddert Elementary

Sports overload for girls and boys. After care available.

DC Way Soccer at Tyler Elementary

At DC Way camps, the philosophy is that players learn best when they are having fun. They use simple and engaging games to challenge players and teach them essential skills. The program is for anyone at any level. Even without ever playing before, they guarantee your child will enjoy our camp. They create a soccer-related environment with lots of exciting and challenging activities to ensure falling in love with soccer and sports in general. Focusing on speed, footwork, 1v1 moves, creativity, vision, confidence.

Capitol Language Services

Students will have indoor time with crafts and friends as well as a lot of outdoor time with language class included. 8:00am-5:00pm

The Children’s Art Studio

Have your child spend the day making art! They meet from 9am-2pm. They also have half-day camp.

Silver Stars Gymnastics

Gymnastics camp is appropriate for the beginner, intermediate and advanced gymnast. Your child will be able to build an athletic foundation for all sports through the strength, flexibility and coordination that only the challenge of gymnastics can offer. Full day: 8:30am-4:30pm, half day: 9:00am-12:00pm, before and after care available.

Park Pick-Up with PJ

When Fairfax County Public Schools and DC Public Schools are closed on April 16, families are invited to spend the morning doing a rewarding social action project! Join PJ Library, Federation’s Young Leadership and the JCCNV to pick up trash at a site in Tysons and practice the Jewish value of shomrei adamah (caring for the environment). Register by April 13

Art Preview Day at Gymboree Bethesda from 10:00am-10:45am

Come get creative in our Art Class!
Color, draw, create and explore with our activities designed to encouraged creativity. Your kid makes the mess, and we do all the cleanup! You MUST RSVP in advance: 301.654.8988. FREE to enrolled and non-enrolled guests.