Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

Marsha Goodman-Wood’s newest music video: Why Can’t You Dance on Jupiter?

Marsha Goodman-Wood is a local musician who I’m fortunate to know personally through our children’s school. She’s generous enough to have shared her premiere of The Penguin Song with readers back in January and now she’s back debuting a new music video; Why Can’t You Dance on Jupiter?

Have you ever misplaced a moon? Or maybe just found 10 or 12 new ones lying around? Probably not. But scientists keep finding new moons of the planet Jupiter. 

This is a brand new video for “Why Can’t You Dance on Jupiter?” from Marsha Goodman-Wood’s 2012 Gravity Vacation album. This stop-motion animation video features the artwork of Judith Keller, brought to life by up and coming videographer Emily Bank.

When the song was released in 2012, scientists had discovered “at least 63 moons” of Jupiter, as the lyrics explain. But it turns out that finding and then confirming new moons for the giant planet is an ongoing process, and Marsha said it was “at least” that many moons because scientists knew they might find more.

If you’ve heard Marsha play live lately with her band The Positrons, you’ve heard that number climbing! And in July 2018, an astronomer named Scott S. Sheppard who works at the Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington DC announced the discovery of 12 new moons, for a current total of 79!

This new video for “Why Can’t You Dance on Jupiter?” notes before the song starts that the number keeps going up.  For the kids, it’s a nice example of how science changes over time as we learn new information.

Bambinos will want to dance along with the unique alien characters that Judith created and if you read along with the closed-captioning you’ll find some Easter eggs in the form of dance suggestions!

Marsha’s solo album Gravity Vacation debuted six years ago, but we’re happy to announce that she’s finalizing a new record with the band Marsha and the Positrons. You, dear readers, are the first to know that it will be released on November 16th!

Staying out there in the the solar system, the new record includes a song called “Hey Pluto” which is about Pluto’s change in status from a planet to a dwarf planet (and about not being defined by your labels). It also features several of Marsha’s trademark songs about science and how the world works, like “Positrons,” which explains this lesser-known sub-atomic particle the band is named after!

Save the date: You can see Marsha and the Positrons this weekend at Jammin Java. Get an early listen to these new songs on Saturday at 10:30am. Tickets are $8 (for everyone age 1 & up); or $25 for a family 4-pack. And meticulously updated scientific facts are free of charge!

Family friendly theater & music productions in and around Washington, DC

The DMV area has an abundance of live productions whether it be theater or music, there’s always something going on. Expose your Bambinos early and help develop their appreciation for dramatic arts and rhythm.

Ändring av metadata kräver upphovsmannens tillstånd.

(Photo: Marmalade at Atlas Performing Arts Center)

Discovery Theater is part of the Smithsonian for Young Audiences. Shows are generally on a weekday at 10:15 and 11:30 however there are some shows that will have weekend performances. August and September they do not have shows.

In addition to on going shows at The Puppet Co Main Stage, they also feature a series called Tiny Tot shows. These are geared towards the younger audience (0-4 years old) with a shorter show for $5.  Show titles vary each week. (7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. 20812)

Millennium Stage at The Kennedy Center presents free performances everyday, no tickets required! Shows typically begin at 6:00pm.

Blueberries for Sal at Adventure Theatre: September 21-October 21, 2018
Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! Sal and her mother are picking delicious blueberries to can for the long winter months ahead to make delicious desserts. On the other side of Maine’s Blueberry Hill, a mama bear and baby bear are filling up for the long hibernation. But somehow Sal and a baby bear have a mixed up adventure and lose their mothers!

Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre: November 16, 2018 – January 6, 2019
What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles-and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Oohlala! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous? Recommended for all ages.

Huckleberry Finn’s Big River at Adventure Theatre: February 8 – March 10, 2019
Twain’s timeless classic sweeps us down the mighty Mississippi as the irrepressible Huck Finn helps his friend Jim, a slave, escape to freedom at the mouth of the Ohio River. Touching and timeless, this tale of friendship against all odds is recreated for young audiences as two best friends demonstrate the power of changing the world. Recommended for all ages.

Winnie the Pooh at Adventure Theatre: March 29 – May 26, 2019
Winnie the Pooh would spend every day of life humming tunes and stopping frequently to eat “a little something.” But today, Pooh and Piglet have to find the Heffalump, watch Rabbit scheme to rid the forest of Kanga’s dreaded bathtub, and help Eeyore search for his tail. Pooh’s intentions are always the best, but his passion for honey and condensed milk keeps getting him into trouble. Recommended for all ages.

The Cat in the Hat at Adventure Theatre: June 21 – August 18, 2019
From the moment his tall, red-and-white-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that the cat in the hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he is certainly fun to play with. And he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mom find when she gets home…? Recommended for all ages.

 

Cinderella at Imagination Stage: November 3, 2018-January 6, 2019
This wacky retelling of the beloved fairy tale takes Cinderella on a royal adventure complete with a wisecracking rat, evil stepsisters, and a smitten prince. When Cinderella’s stepmother forbids her from attending the ball, her fairy godmother convinces here that if the shoe fits- wear it! True love may await her if only she can put down her sword. Just the right fit for the holiday season! Recommended for all ages 4+.

Anatole: Mouse Magnifique at Imagination Stage: February 9-March 24, 2019
Meet Anatole- mouse magnifique- the best cheese-taster in all of France! In this whimsical musical adventure, Anatole and his best friend Gaston set out to save the Duval cheese factory, only to discover something much scarier than moldy Brie lurking in the tasting room. Can Anatole outsmart the hungry predator and save the factory? Join Anatole, Gaston, and a chorus of dancing cheeses to find out! Recommended for all ages 4+.

Dicken’s Davy Copperfield at Imagination Stage: February 16-March 31, 2019
Experience the genius of Charles Dickens through the eyes of a young boy! Follow Davy Copperfield on his childhood adventures in 19th C. England. Whether at home with his mother, at boarding school, working in a London bottling factory, or making his epic escape across the English countryside, Davy shows his resilience and determination to find a loving home. Recommended for all ages 6+.

Escape from Peligro Island at Imagination Stage: April 27- June 2, 2019
You create your own adventure! Callaway Brown – an unlikely young hero – has been stranded on a desert island, and it’s up to YOU to decide what happens next! In this interactive production, audience members vote on Callaway’s actions in an energetic romp through time and space. Will Callaway time travel to the Wild West and meet a talking horse? Develop superpowers and fight crime in the future? Or have a crush on a vampire? The choice is yours! Recommended for all ages 5+.

The Ballad of Mu Lan: June 26- August 18, 2019
Courage, honor, and country! When China is forced to war with the invading Xi Xia, each family must send one man into battle. In her quest to protect her baba, our young heroine proves girls can do anything – including saving a nation. Inspired by Peking Opera, this partnership production with the Honolulu Theatre for Youth is full of music, pageantry, and humor. Students from the prestigious O-mei Wushu Center- under the direction of Martial Arts Master Sifu Xiaolin Lu – round out the cast in this girl-powered adventure! Recommended for all ages 6+.

 

My First Imagination Stage: The My First Imagination Stage theatre series offers intimate, interactive theatre performances designed for the very young in our Reeve Studio Theatre. Learn more below about our early childhood classes and weekend workshops for ages 1-5.

Blue: October 6- October 28, 2018
Join Pale Blue and Inky Blue in their blue-tiful garden, where blue flowers sprout in blue pots with the help of some water, a song, and some theatre magic! All is well until one day… a stubborn RED flower blooms in their harmonious blue world! Can Pale and Inky agree how to approach this colorful intruder?

Wake Up, Brother Bear: January 11- February 13, 2019
Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take your little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in this unforgettable live theatre experience. Reimagined for this 10th anniversary performance, this audience favorite is sure to delight and inspire.

Aquarium: March 30–April 14, 2019
Enter a fantastical island world where fish soar through the air, lemons light up the sky, and sheep go parading by. With gentle music, puppets, and props, guides Jack and Calypso lead children and caregivers in an interactive journey to a magical place of play.

 

Balloonacy: July 6–August 4, 2019
Nothing can go right for the character of the old man, whose days are gray and dreary until he is visited by a friendly red balloon. Reminiscent of the silent films of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, the playwright has imagined the man as an older version of the boy in the movie The Red Balloon, now grown up and grown old, having forgotten his youthful adventure. That is until the red balloon returns to the rescue! 

 

Encore Stage & Studio: Encore Stage & Studio’s mission is to build life-long appreciation for live theater by involving young people in all aspects of theater arts — onstage, backstage, in the classroom, and in the audience.


 Ghostchasers: Oct.5-8, 2018 
Things are at their worst at the Asylum for the Extremely Tense, run by the famous Dr. Horace Roy. An earthquake jolt has freed a poltergeist, and it’s creating mischief! The patients have locked up the staff and nobody can tell who’s who! Luckily, Dr. Roy’s cousin Harriet knows just who to call… the Ghostchasers! Honcho and his staff of student ghostchasers are equipped with an array of strange and incredible gadgets, but are they ready for the call? We recommend this production for ages 6 and older.

A Sidewalk Stroll: October 20-November 9, 2018
In its newest play series, Theatre for the Very Young, Encore Stage & Studio presents “A Sidewalk Stroll”–starring professional artists who bring park adventures and friendly animals to life, all the while teaching your little one about navigating through life’s surprises. Recommended for ages 1 and older.

Jingle Arrgh the Way: Nov. 16-18, 2018
A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. Favorite characters, a rollicking story, great songs, and a trip to the North Pole to find “you know who” – makes Jingle ARRGH the Way! a wonderful holiday show for the whole family. Based on a story by Melinda Long, author of How I Became a Pirate. We recommend this musical for ages 4 and older.

The Enchanted Bookshop: January 11-20, 2019
During the day, A Likely Story looks like any other bookshop, but at night the characters inside the books come alive. Classic characters — including Dorothy Gale, Pollyanna, Heidi, Tom Sawyer and more — long to help Margie, the scatterbrained owner, save her struggling store. When a pair of smugglers come looking for a stolen necklace hidden inside one of the books, the characters must find a way to rescue the bookshop without being seen. Join us on this magical mission to celebrate the enchantment and joy of reading. We recommend this production for ages 4 and older. 

RobinHood: February 22-March 3, 2019
Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham are cruel and unfair to their citizens. Robin Hood and his merry men are on a mission to help by taking from the rich and giving back to the poor. To arms! When the Sheriff and Lady Merle hatch a plan to stop him, Robin Hood must save Maid Marian, defeat the awful sheriff, and secure Nottingham for the true king’s return. We recommend this production for ages 6 and older.

The Talented Clementine: May 31-June 9, 2019
Clementine gets nervous when her third grade teacher announces that her class will be putting on a talent show to raise money for the spring trip. She can’t sing or dance or play an instrument like her super talented friend Margaret, and what talents she does have would not work on a stage. Clementine must find an act, any act, to perform before the night of the big show. But with only a few days to do so, can she put it together in time? We recommend this musical for ages 6 and older.

Disney’s Newsies: July 19-28, 2019
Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right!

 

Arts on the Horizon strives to present high-quality theatre for young audiences and their families at an affordable rate. They believe that the arts play an important role in the life of a child. They provide 30-minute, interactive, nonverbal shows performed by professional, adult actors.  Post-show activities, such as a take-home craft projects related to themes in the show and meet-and-greet opportunities with the performers, extend the theater-going experience beyond the actual production.

Sailing on String: Sneak Peek: October 6 and 8, 2018 & The Lab at Convergence: May 2-18, 2019
A simple piece of yarn can become so many things! Follow a curious explorer on a voyage into a world made entirely of string! Yarn birds fly through the air passing crocheted clouds. This gentle, engaging performance features object transformation, dance, live string music, and captivating design. Follow the twists, turns, and eventual tangles of this special immersive performance for our youngest audience members! Best for children ages 0-2 and their families

Adventures with Mr. Bear: The Lab at Convergence: November 30-December 15, 2018 Atlas Performing Arts Center: December 18-22, 2018
The wonder and magic of a child’s imagination are brought to life in this charming production. One cozy winter afternoon, a young girl and her favorite stuffed animal, Mr. Bear, play a game of hide and seek which evolves into a series of exciting adventures. Together, they embark on a journey of endless possibilities – all from the comfort of her playroom! Cuddle up with your favorite stuffed animal friend and join us for a delightful holiday production. Best for children ages 2 – 5 and their families.

Beep Beep!: The Lab at Convergence: March 7-23, 2019
On a warm spring day, the friendly tune of the ice cream truck might be just what you need. But when one particular ice cream truck starts to fall apart, the driver has to fix it before everything starts to melt! Will our friend find a way out of this sticky situation? This highly physical comedy, features live percussion music and plenty of zany shenanigans. Come help us figure out how to fix up this ice cream truck where nothing goes right!  Best for children ages 2 – 5 and their families.

Venues to keep in mind:

Synetic Theater (for 13+)

Strathmore 

Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

Jammin Java (Tot Rock)

Bloombars

Boogie Babes

The National Theatre

Encore Stage and Studio

Black Rock Center for the Arts

Atlas Performing Arts Center

Arts on the Horizon

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Favorite DC musicians and performers (in no particular order) we recommend checking out their schedules as well as considering them for birthday parties:
Mr. Gabe

Mr. Skip

John Henry, The Guitar Playing Man

Baba Ras D

The Uncle Devin Show

Marsha Goodman-Wood

Summer Performances:
Backyard Theater for Children at Strathmore
Bringing families together for concerts that are entertaining, educational and perfect for all ages! Thursdays in July. Bring a blanket and relax under the tent. $8 tickets for kids over 2.

Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods  offers summer-long entertainment to children. Shows are geared towards children in Kindergarten-Grade 6.

Summerfest Family Theatre in Frederick
From clowns and magicians, to Emmy-awarding winning musicians and puppeteers, the Summerfest Family Theatre has brought high-quality entertainment to Frederick youngsters for over seventeen years! All summer long.

Theater & music in and around Washington, DC

The DMV area has an abundance of live productions whether it be theater or music, there’s always something going on. Expose your Bambinos early and help develop their appreciation for dramatic arts, rhythm and sound. This summer you can also see performances involving live music and outdoor movies. We’ve added a list of well-known musicians and venues at the bottom.

Ändring av metadata kräver upphovsmannens tillstånd.

(Photo: Marmalade at Atlas Performing Arts Center)

Discovery Theater is part of the Smithsonian for Young Audiences. Shows are generally on a weekday at 10:15 and 11:30 however there are some shows that will have weekend performances. August and September they do not have shows.

In addition to The Puppet Co Main Stage, Glen Echo also features a series called Tiny Tot shows. These are geared towards the younger audience (0-4 years old) with a shorter show for $6.  Show titles vary each week.

Millennium Stage at The Kennedy Center presents free performances everyday, no tickets required! Shows typically begin at 6:00pm.

[Read more…]

Live outdoor summer music in and around Washington, DC

One of my favorite parts about summer in Washington, DC are the (mostly) free, outdoor concerts you can find. A few summers ago we took a sporadic drive to the Mall, walked around, played some ball by the reflecting pool with our then three year old and walked towards the Capitol where the U.S. Air Force Band was performing a free concert. A huge crowd was gathered on the steps and in chairs taking in the gorgeous evening and patriotic tunes. I had no idea they performed for free and for the public on random evenings. This post will help you take advantage of some great music that will help you relax after a long day and see a bit of our city while doing so. Also, included are family focused shows at some favorite venues. Get out and enjoy the lighter evenings, let your kids stay up a little longer and enjoy the music our city offers. 

The Yards Park 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. Also check out Kids in Canal: Making its second appearance in Capitol Riverfront, Kids in Canal is a 12-week series of kid-friendly entertainment every Wednesday 10:30 am – 11:30 am beginning June 6th!  Bring your little ones to the middle block of Canal Park to enjoy magic shows, kids tunes, science demonstrations, and puppet shows.  Top off your day with a refreshing splash in the Canal Park dancing water fountains.

RecessMonkeyStrathmore’s Backyard Theatre for Children
Enrich your little ones’ summer mornings with sunshine, music, and laughter at Strathmore’s Backyard Theater for Kids. This eclectic program is the perfect summer escape for busy families. Pack a picnic and enjoy live performances by highly esteemed and innovative family-friendly entertainers. From folk and jazz to the amazing sounds of the steelpan, Backyard Theater makes it easy to engage kids at every stage. We promise to keep both kids and parents entertained, so bring your family for a morning of inspiration and celebration!

LITTLE MISS ANN Thu, July 5
JOJO & THE PINECONES Thu, July 12
POSITIVE VIBRATIONS Thu, July 19
LUCKY DIAZ & THE FAMILY JAM BAND Thu, July 26

Also for kids!
ARTS ON THE HORIZON: TO THE CLOUDS Sat, July 28

[Read more…]

Kidville Bethesda keeps Bambinos wanting to go back for more {and more}

Kidville Bethesda offers award-winning gym, art, dance, music, preschool classes and summer camp for children aged newborn – five years old. Their customizable birthday parties are a blast for 1-8 years old and they even offer haircuts for kids of all ages. I brought my first child here for his first few haircuts; it was the perfect environment for an apprehensive first-timer. Kidville also allows you to try a trial class before committing to a series of classes, click here for more info. They are conveniently located in downtown Bethesda, sandwiched in between coffee shops and delicious restaurants at 4825 Bethesda Ave.

My three year old sampled a few classes and has left her wanting to go back at any dull moment we have. She loved the Big Muscle Workout and the Kidville Gymnasts classes. She was able to get acclimated with all of the colorful, fun equipment and meet other classmates before the class started. The classes began with a warm-up, followed by some strength and skills obstacles. She was constantly moving and had a smile on her face the whole time {you can watch your child from various windows} or leave to get that cup of joe if your child is old enough for one of their “drop-off” classes. The teachers are up-beat, get to know your child, professional and energetic.

You can browse their website by age to see the lengthy list of classes appropriate for your Bambinos. When you sign up for classes you also gain entry to the Playspace, which is like open gym time and typically has at least an hour window of time each day of the week if not more. Click here for a schedule of classes.

Zoom A Little Zoom: A Ride Through Science

Did you know yesterday, March 16, marked the anniversary of Robert Goddard’s rocket ship launch? In honor of this celebration, we introduce to you a fun, science, musical journey.

Grammy-winning duo, Cathy Fink & Marcy Marker have made an educational yet catchy and fun CD all about Science called Zoom A Little Zoom: A Ride Through Science. With 10 new interpretations of tunes from Ballads for the Age of Science, a classic 1961 collection of educational science songs on such subjects as space, nature, weather and energy, and an Activity Guide featuring dozens of ideas for hands-on science fun, the album is intended to excite a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.

An added bonus–The new album includes an Activity Guide for each song by Lynn Baum (former head of School Programs at the Museum of Science in Boston), downloadable from the CD. The guide, which features ideas easy to replicate at home or school using household materials, will be available for free download soon which includes vocabulary, facts, questions and activities to complete. In upcoming performances and videos, these activities will come alive – experiments and all and we can’t wait! The activity guide can also serve as a reference for science fair projects and provide answers to some science questions your Bambinos may bring home.

Songs include topics such as Vibration, Gravity, Lightning and Insects. It’s a fun way to build on your child’s knowledge and even more fun to hear your child excitedly say, “I know about this!” while the song plays.

Available March 30!

The Penguin Song will make your Bambinos waddle and shake

Now that winter is upon us, let’s embrace the cold like our black & white feathered friends from Antarctica do! Here’s the World Premiere of “The Penguin Song,” a favorite track from Marsha Goodman-Wood’s 2012 Gravity Vacation album. Marsha was delighted to partner with John Cullimore, fellow kindie musician and frontman of family band, Chibi Kodama, who directed and produced this video.

Marsha reports that she and her band, Marsha and the Positrons, are currently in the studio (finally!) recording a new CD and expect to have their record out by summer!

You can catch Marsha and the Positrons live at:

  • Eastern Market in Capitol Hill, DC for a Boogie Babes show: Thursday, February 1, 2018 at 10:30am
  • The Avalon Theatre in Chevy Chase, DC: Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 10:00am where they will be kicking off the winter family concert series! And who doesn’t love hot coffee and fresh popcorn at 10:00am while cozy in a movie theatre singing and dancing?!
  • Jammin Java in Vienna, VA: Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 10:30am

The Penguin Song video features some adorable kids doing their penguin dances, plus live footage of penguins — and who doesn’t like penguins?! Get some energy out at home tapping your toes and doing your version of the penguin dance. Since this is a lyric video, it’s also a great opportunity for young readers to practice reading (and perhaps singing) along. Enjoy!

Looking ahead…

Upon, writing various posts, I realized there were multiple occasions I’d go to post fun events for you to do and the event was already sold out.{ Enter this blog post } This will be a place for you to look ahead and reserve your spot if you’re interested in attending or save date on your calendar.

May 11, 2018: Pajama Party Movie Night: Knights, Dragons, and Magical Monster at Hillwood Estate & Museum
Enjoy a selection of award-winning, family-friendly short films featuring fanciful creatures. 5:30-8 p.m. 

May 12, 2018: Action Children’s Business Fair
Young entrepreneurs, ages 6-14, will line Connecticut Ave in Cleveland Park and set up shop, literally

May 19, 2018: Gaithersburg Book Festival

Shows-

Keep in mind our local theatre performances

 

Paw Patrol Live!: The Great Pirate Adventure at The Hippodrome
May 12 & 13, 2018

Kingman Island Bluegrass & Folk Festival: June 9

The Nextival: July 13-15

Music-

Strathmore Children’s Art Talk & Tour at the Mansion

SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018, 10:15AM
SATURDAY, JUNE 30, 2018, 10:15AM

Young art lovers can get behind the brushstrokes and into the head, heart, and history of the artists with these kid-friendly Saturday tours. Children take part in an educational guided tour of the current exhibitions followed by a hands-on art activity. Ages 7 & up. Accompanying adults are free. Reservations required.

Night Out at the Museum:
National Museum of Natural History Sleepovers

Sleepover guests will experience the museum through an interactive exploration of exhibit halls consisting of games, puzzles and challenges; exhibit-based craft projects; and sleeping under the museum’s giant North American right whale, Phoenix. Sleepovers at the National Museum of Natural History will be heldMay 18, June 1, June 29, July 6, Aug. 24 and Aug. 31.

National Museum of American History Sleepovers

Participants will solve a mystery of historic proportions during an interactive exploration of exhibit halls. When the devious diva Miss Rose steals six valuable objects from the museum, kids must discover what is missing before the evening’s end. Using their detective skills, they will collect clues to guide them to the crime scene. Along the way, they will take part in games, experiments and craft projects—and even become a presidential candidate. Sleepovers at the National Museum of American History will be held May 11, May 25, June 15 and Aug. 10.

National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center Sleepovers

Kids and their chaperones will explore the whole world of flight, from its pioneering days through the era of commercial aviation to the excitement of today’s space program. After they grab a flight checklist, they will take off for a night that includes plenty of games, art activities and close-up looks at some of the most historic and fascinating craft ever to take to the skies. Udvar-Hazy Center staff will be on hand to offer information and insights about the aviation treasures on view. Sleepovers at the Udvar-Hazy Center will be held July 14, July 28 and Aug. 18.

***Already occurred but will update with new dates as they become available***

February 10, 2018, 10:00am – 4:00pm: Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at National Postal Museum

Love is in the details at the annual Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at the National Postal Museum! Come out and create heart-felt handmade cards and visit the museum’s stamp store to send the cards to your loved ones with a special Postal Museum postmark. Free, no need to RSVP.

Feb. 14-19, 2018: Disney On Ice presents Frozen at Capital One Arena (also in Baltimore Jan. 31-Feb. 4)

February 17, 2018 from 10:00am-4:30pm: Discover Engineering Family Day at The National Building Museum

Celebrate National Engineer’s Week by trying out exciting, hands-on engineering experiences and talking with professional engineers of all kinds. See a complete list of all activities. Free, drop in. All ages.
MIX slime, and learn about different chemical reactions
INVENT a creative way to launch a ping pong ball into the air
EXPLORE like a real surveyor, using map and compass to find your way
DESIGN a motorized bot to walk across a table
SPIN paper helicopters and test the best design

February 17, 2018-February, 19, 2018: Celebrate Washington’s Birthday on President’s Day at Mount Vernon

February 23, 2018-March 10, 2018: Atlas Intersections Festival

The 8th annual INTERSECTIONS Festival will feature more than 100 performances in dance, music, theatre, family programming and youth development, and will be seen by over 7,000 patrons and arts lovers.

Kids in the Kitchen at YMCA Anthony Bowen presented by Junior League of Washington

February 25, 2017 (no time listed yet)

Kids in the Kitchen is an annual spring event that showcases ways kids can eat smart and make healthy lifestyle choices. Targeted to children ages 3-13, local chefs host healthy cooking demonstrations, fitness experts lead high-energy exercise sessions and certified nutritionists are on hand to answer questions. Kids in the Kitchen is a fun-filled day of games, crafts, hands-on learning, and exciting prizes – all to celebrate and promote nutritional literacy.


Magic of Spying: Tradecraft Trickery at The Spy Museum

February 25, 2017 from 11:00am-12:00pm

In the real-life world of espionage, spies often call upon the art of magic and illusion to distract the enemy, make evidence disappear, and escape unnoticed.  Join professional magician, Peter Wood, as he demonstrates the art of misdirection, sleight of hand, and other illusions used by skilled spies. This one of a kind performance, custom-designed for the Spy Museum, is guaranteed to fascinate children and adults alike. The Magic of Spying is for children ages 7 and up. One adult is required for every five KidSpy agents. Space is limited—advance registration required.

Cherry Blossom Festival

Sometime mid-March 2017 (Details to follow)

Blossom Kite Festival

April 1, 2017 from 10:00am-4:30pm

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is kicking off kite season. The seventh annual Blossom Kite Festival showcases the creativity of kite makers and skill of fliers from across the US and other countries through a variety of competitions and demonstrations, Rokkaku Battles and the Hot Tricks Showdown. Bring your own kites or children can make a kite at an activity station (while supplies last) to fly on the Public Field.

Fabergé Egg Family Festival at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

April 8 & 9, 2017 from 10:00am-5:00pm

Celebrate spring’s arrival in Russian style! Admire the exquisite imperial eggs and other fanciful Fabergé creations collected by Marjorie Post. Enjoy festive folk music and dancing. Take part in a centuries-old egg-rolling game. Step into Fabergé’s Workshop to decorate your own Fabergé-inspired egg. $18, $15 Senior, $12 Member, $10 College Student, $5 Child (ages 6-18), free for children under 6. Please note: As with all festival days, members do not receive free admission to Fabergé Egg Family Festival and guest passes are not accepted.

10th Annual Eggstravaganza at Tudor Place

April 8, 14 & 15, 2017 from 10:00am-12:00pm

Rolling green lawns, bright spring blooms, and the elegant mansion on a hill serve as backdrop for the 10th year of this festive annual attraction. Join the Easter Bunny for a special day as children of all ages enjoy games, crafts, an Egg Hunt, and thrilling Egg Roll Contest, down the grand South Lawn. Bring your own basket, spoon, and one hard-boiled egg per child. Member child: $7 | Non-member child: $10 | Accompanying adult: $5

Tudor Place Family Member Presale: January 3–31
Tickets on sale to the general public February 1

Maryland Day :March 24-26, 2017

Sleepover at the National Archives

A night of adventure awaits at the National Archives! Join us for a special sleepover at the National Archives Museum in Washington, DC, and spend the night next to America’s most precious treasures: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. During the event, kids ages 8-12 along with their adults will explore our nation’s treasured records, meet author Kathleen Krull and comic book artist Carolyn Belefski, sleep in the Rotunda near the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, and make memories to last a lifetime. Guests also will be treated to movies in the museum’s William G. McGowan Theater before turning in for the night, and will enjoy breakfast – including pancakes flipped by Archivist of the United States David S. Ferriero! – and more activities the next morning.

Nov. 4, 2017 at 11:00am:  Saturday Family Story Session at Strathmore
Local storytellers teach kids how to weave narrative tales, instilling a love of learning with every word. Music, movement, art, and interactive play: it’s all about understanding other people, enjoying different cultures and boosting imagination and creativity. Recommended for ages 3–8.
Nov. 5, 2017 from 10:30am-12:30pm: Forest Hills Playground Harvest Hoedown
(Rescheduled due to rain)
Nov. 12, 2017 from 2:00pm-8:00pm: Tree Lighting & Fireworks Show at National Harbor
Santa’s Frosty Follies, Holiday Movie, Santa at the Carousel, Tree Lighting & Fireworks
Nov. 24- Dec. 2, 2017:  Tenley WinterFest
Tenley WinterFest is an eight-day celebration of the holiday season designed to showcase local businesses, community groups, and the neighborhood – all with a unique Tenleytown flair and lots of yetis.

Nov. 26, 2017 at 5:30pm: Kids Pajama Jam Party at AMP Strathhmore
Get ready to ring in the holidays with a special festive Pajama Jam! Described as “the best-sounding band in children’s music” (NPR’s All Things Considered), three-time Grammy nominees Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could are here to shake, dance, and groove their way through classic holiday favorites and new holiday jams alike! Their rootsy, accordion-laced take on children’s music is energetic, spirited, and will provide the perfect soundtrack for your holiday.
Dec. 2, 2017 from 1:00pm-4:00pm: Bethesda’s Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the holiday season in Veterans Park in downtown Bethesda with a variety of performances, live ice sculpting, a visit from Santa Claus and more!
Dec. 2 at 4:00pm: Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2017 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area.

Dec. 9 from 10:00am-4:00pm: Annual Holiday Card Workshop at the National Postal Museum
Kick off the holiday season by creating heartfelt, handmade cards at the National Postal Museum’s Annual Holiday Card Workshop! We’ll have pretty papers, vintage stamps from around the world and lots of other supplies to inspire your creativity as you create one-of-a-kind holiday greetings. After making your cards, visit the museum’s stamp store to send your cards to friends and family with a special Postal Museum postmark!

Dec. 9 & 10, 2017: Dollar or Less Day in Baltimore
In the spirit of the Holidays, Baltimore area attractions will open their doors the weekend of December 9 & 10, 2017 and offer free or $1 admission.

Dec. 9 at 3:00pm: Woodshop for Kids at the Building Museum
Use a drill to craft a wood toy you can give as a gift or enjoy yourself.

Dec. 9 at 11:00am: Kids Gingerbread House Workshop at DBGB

December 10 and 17 from 1:00pm-2:30pm: Gift Making workshop for kids at Little Loft Art Studio
Calling all elves! Make your own gifts this season! Our handmade gifts are designed to be practical as well as thoughtful, and they’re a great conversation piece to hear about your child’s creative process and artistic choices. Sign up for one or both. Join in – or drop off and do some holiday shopping in the neighborhood while you wait. Shop small this season – support local businesses! Hot chocolate and holiday music provided. Ages 5-10, $32/day
Sign up for one only or both.

Dec. 17 at 11:00am AND 2:00pm: 1, 2, 3 Andres plays at Bender JCC
Join for a magical holiday story, song and dance benefiting the Greater DC Diaper Bank

Dec. 17 from 1:00pm-4:00pm: Family Afternoon at the Building Museum
Construct paper house lanterns and handmade books to create feelings of home.

Jan. 15 at 11:00am: New Orchestra of Washington (NOW) Family Concert
Bring the whole family to enjoy a special family concert! The colorful program will engage listeners both young, and young at heart. After the concert, you may opt to stay, for the instrument petting zoo and pizza lunch. If you are looking for something to do on a cold holiday, this is it!

February 3, 2018 from 1:30pm-3:30pm: Q, the Witch and the Magical Orb at Maryland Ensemble Theatre

come see a FUN Company play – Q, the Witch and the Magical Orb! Afterwards we’ll have snacks and make art around the themes of the play, and play theatre games–all for free!  Recommended for ages 3-7.

February 3, 2018 from 10:00am-5:00pm: La Chandeleur Day at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

La Chandeleur, also known as Crêpe Day, marks the halfway point between winter and spring.  In France, families celebrate by eating crêpes, which are round and golden like the springtime sun. Snack on a tasty treat of sweet crêpes. Hear classic French tales inspired by scenes from La Fontaine fables that are pictured on tapestries covering chairs from France displayed in the mansion. Explore Hillwood’s French treasures through interactive, docent-led, family-friendly gallery talks and a printed activity guide. Decorate a plate with fanciful designs and flourishes inspired by Hillwood’s French Sèvres porcelain.

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