Outdoor Play – Page 4

Glen Echo Park Carousel 100th Anniversary Launch Event

February 16, 2021

Join virtually on February 18 at 12:30 pm for a LIVE launch event to kick off the Carousel 100th Anniversary Celebration! You can join in the fun on Glen Echo’s website, YouTube, and on Facebook to tell you about the exciting activities and events planned for the months-long Carousel 100th Anniversary celebration.

They will be live from the carousel building with Emcee Liz Dapo from the Puppet Co. and her sidekick (you’ll see when you tune in!), as well as Glen Echo Park Partnership Executive Director Katey Boerner and Partnership Board President Bonnie Casper. There will also be special messages from Senator Chris Van Hollen, Congressman Jamie Raskin, Maryland Delegate Marc Korman, Montgomery County Council member Andrew Friedson, and other special guests!

Glen Echo has so many options for families– Adventure Theatre, the Puppet Co, a playground, aquarium, drop-in art workshops and seasonal events!

Ktown StoryWalk allows for families to explore a free, outdoor walking adventure in Kensington

January 25, 2021

A stroll through historic Kensington, Maryland, will offer families a self-guided, socially distanced outing to read the book The Mitten by Jan Brett in store windows. The Ktown StoryWalk® by the Noyes Children’s Library Foundation starts at Frankly…Pizza! which is located at 10417 Armory Avenue, Kensington, MD. 20895 and features pages from the wintry children’s book spread out over 15 storefronts. The StoryWalk® will be available through January 31, 2021.

A free craft kit tied into The Mitten will be available for pick up in a box outside the Noyes Library for Young Children which is located at 10237 Carroll Place, Kensington, MD. 20895 on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 4pm for the duration of the StoryWalk®.

Families are encouraged to share a photo of the walk, a selfie at Noyes, and/or a photo of the completed craft on the Noyes Children’s Library Foundation Facebook page, post to Facebook and tag the Noyes Children’s Library Foundation, or post to Instagram and tag @makemorenoyes.

Families can also tune into free weekly storytimes on Tuesdays presented by the Foundation on Facebook Live. The weekly storytimes are continuing (you can also watch past storytimes) through their Facebook page.

Covid-era gift guide: ideas for crafts, technology, home and outdoors

November 30, 2020

We hope you find this gift guide helpful as we have highlighted items that will entertain your children through the winter as we prepare to spend more time indoors as well as some gifts for your home (or others). Check out these stocking stuffers, all under $10!

For your home:

This steam mop is my favorite purchase during quarantine. Easy to use, I have now put my kids in charge of cleaning the floors! It eliminates 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria with the natural power of steam. I add essential oils to bring an inviting smell in, a bit of olive oil and sometimes a light cleaning product from Branch Basics into my water.

Solo Stove has allowed us to be outside on cool nights! It comes in various sizes and is smokeless (if you have dry firewood). Don’t forget marshmallow and hot dog skewers for the bonfire.

A lot of our friends have stepped up their outdoor spaces with a projector and screen so they can show movies outside alongside their bonfire and/or heat lamp. Whatever allows us to get out of our house in 2020, right?

Seriously don’t know why I didn’t get this sooner. The iRobot Roomba is a vacuum that intelligently maps & cleans an entire level of your home- set it and go! A cheaper option is the Eufy which also cleans hardwood and carpet.

Instant Pot is worth the hype and comes in various sizes. I just wish I had a cabinet it could be stored in.

Our air purifier is a 3-part filtration system that captures 99% of common airborne pm 2.5 pollutants such as allergens, odors, smoke, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander.

Add some green to your home and add a snake plant or palm. We have gifted this succulent subscription box to a friend and they delivered gorgeous succulents.

Get active and outside:

My kids are begging for rollerblades or rollerskates and I’m not opposed.

Socker boppers are another fun way for kids to get out some energy with theses inflatable boppers which can used in a variety of ways.

Another item on my kids list this year is a hoverboard. Perhaps it’s due to the marathon we just had watching Back to the Future.

Micro scooters are great– they come in a variety of sizes and styles and my kids have loved each one they’ve had. The mini-deluxe is perfect for ages 2-5 and the maxi deluxe is the next scooter for ages 5-12 while this micro is great for the older kids who have better balance.

If you have space outside a ninja obstacle course is a great way to get your kids outdoors and burning energy.

Balance stepping stones are great for smaller kids to set up in the yard while developing balance, collaboration and concentration skills

Dueling stomp rocket allows two friends to stomp rockets as high as they can into the sky.

Arts and crafts:

This playhouse allows kids to doodle & decorate a cardboard castle and other designs. A perfect indoor activity that will provide plenty of fun for winter.

Don’t let the word painting steer you away from this. My six year old received this for her birthday and in one day created all of the 12 designs– she LOVED it and it is an activity that allowed her to be completely independent while creating. Grab this big gem diamond painting!

3-D printing pen is the first in a 3D printing device!

Light-up tracing pad is a favorite in our house. It has a variety of designs featuring 1 graphite pencil, 12 short colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets, 10 blank sheets, and 1 graphite pencil.

The art case that comes with everything your budding artist needs and you can keep it all in the carrying case.

Grow n glow terrarium is another favorite in our house. It is an indoor activity for kids that allows them to craft, plant, water and grow your own mini ecosystem. Just add water for a unique science experience!

Aquabeads give your child a chance to place the beads following the template and spray with water to complete! Flip the tray to remove the design, wipe dry and continue creating with Aquabeads!

Build and paint a wooden car (or rescue vehicles) with 42 pre-cut & sanded wooden pieces to make 3 cars, sand paper.

Tech:

Oculus Quest 2 transports your movements directly into VR with intuitive controls. Get the best seat in the house to live concerts, games, groundbreaking films, exclusive events and more.

Echo Dot for kids lets kids ask Alexa to play music, read stories, and call approved friends and family. The included year of Amazon Kids+ (FreeTime Unlimited) gives them access to thousands of hours of kid-friendly Audible books, interactive games, and educational skills.

Fuji film instax mini camera + accessories is an awesome gift for kids who enjoy snapping photos. Photos immediately are printed and can be added to the photo albums.

VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch is great for kids 4+. They can take photos, learn to tell time and play games on this watch. It comes in a variety of colors.

Powerbeats wireless earphones: Up to 9 hours of listening time with secure ear fit. Apple Airpods Pro are another good option in fact these are my favorite as they are noise reducing and I can pop them in while my kids are doing virtual school if I need to cancel out the noise.

Wireless karaoke microphone is a handheld karaoke microphone which is small in size and easy to hold. Kids can practice and share favorite songs using music apps (YouTube , Pandora, Spotify..)

Osmo starter kit: Children interact with actual hand held pieces & an iPad, bringing a child’s game pieces & actions to life (No WiFi necessary for game play).

A bluetooth speaker is great to have when you go outdoors as it is bluetooth compatible. We brought this one along on our beach trips this summer and it worked great. A cheaper option is this Bose one.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Cut-your-own tree farms in Virginia and Maryland

November 27, 2020

Maryland

Gaver Tree Farm: Mt. Airy, MD
November 27 from 9am – 5pm daily for cut your own and fresh-cut Christmas trees, Wreath Shop and Farm Market! Beautifully sheared Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, Canaan Fir, Fraser Fir and White Pine trees. They provide hand carts to pull your tree from the field, saws, shaking, baling and drilling. Fresh wreaths, pine roping and swags PLUS apples, cider, donuts, pies, fudge, jams, jellies and more in the Farm Market. Hayrides will be available to the back fields on weekends only (weather and guidelines permitting). No pets allowed.

Mayne’s Tree Farm: Frederick, MD
Christmas trees at Mayne’s Tree Farm in Frederick, MD are available from the November 26 – Christmas! Mayne’s allows you to cut your own trees or choose from their pre-cut selection. Hayrides are available on weekends. No pets allowed.

Naughty Pine Nursery: Dickerson, MD
Open November 27th and every Saturday & Sunday that follow through 12/20. Hours are from 10am – 4pm. Naughty Pine Nursery grows a large selection of Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce and Norway Spruce Christmas trees offering cut-your-own trees for the holiday season! They also sell firewood.

Triadelphia Lake View Farm (TLV): Glenelg, MD
Open on November 27th from 9am – 5pm. Santa will be there 10am to 4pm. Pets are allowed on leash. Masks required, social distancing required. Wreaths, roping, cut your own, and precuts available.

Otterdale View: Union Bridge, MD
Open November 27 – December 20, Thursday- Sunday from 9am-5pm. Come and cut your own Christmas tree! They have hundreds to choose from in various varieties and sizes up to about 7′ tall. Bring your own saw this year. A limited supply of disinfected hand saws will also be available. No baling/wrapping – Please be prepared to secure your tree or tie it down yourself. They will provide twine- you may use it to tie your tree down or even bale it by hand. No restrooms available this year.

Butler’s Orchard: Germantown, MD
Holiday Harvest Days & locally grown pre-cut trees will begin November 27^th and then open Tuesday-Sunday 9:00am- 6:00pm. Pre-cut trees will be arranged in the Farm Park this year to allow to safely social distance and shop for Christmas trees! Stop by the Farmer’s Porch for a hot beverage, visit the animals and stroll through Christmas Trees. $5.00/car entrance. Does Santa drive a tractor or a sleigh? Santa will be at the Farm from 11:00am- 3:00pm on December 6, 13 & 20! Cut your own trees are by RESERVATION ONLY.

Homestead Farm: Poolesville, MD
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Linden Hill Farm: Upper Marlboro, MD
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Virginia

Clouse’s Pine Hill Farm: Winchester, VA
Opening November 27 and open Thursday-Sunday from 9am – 5pm. Bring your gloves and tie down straps with a tarp and you will be set to wander this farm looking for your perfect tree or choose from a pre-cut tree. This farm offers a variety of events for families. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm: Berryville VA
Starting Friday November 27 they will be open for customers to come, pick out a tree, and cut it the same day, Pre-taggers and customers who want pre-cut Frasers or pre-cut Concolors will also be able come. They will be CLOSED Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s after Thanksgiving and open the other days 9am-4pm.

Country Loving Christmas Tree Farm: Leesburg, VA
Open 9am – 5pm Saturdays & Sundays beginning November 27. Appointments for Monday-Thursday visits by calling (703)-398-7018. They also deliver, install, maintain, remove, and store outside holiday lights, garland and other decorations.

Hartland Farm: Markham, VA
No updated information for 2020 yet.

Joe’s Trees: Chantilly, VA
Open 7 days a week through December 20 from 9am-5pm. Offering trees ranging from 6-15 feet. They have a seasonal store, festive food & hayrides (weather permitting). Santa makes appearances on weekends in early December too!

Krop’s Crops: Great Falls, VA
Opened on Nov. 14 and open from 9am-5pm daily. Cut your own is closed his year but they offer pre-cut trees.

Snickers Gap: Bluemont, VA
A family owned choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm is located near Bluemont, Virginia, situated on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For 40 years they have been growing beautiful fir and spruce trees that we shape exclusively with hand tools. They also offer exquisite farm made mixed green wreaths. While searching for your tree, enjoy a view of the Loudoun Valley. It is appreciated if customers bringing their own straps to secure trees onto cars.

Middleburg Christmas Tree Farm: Round Hill, VA
Beautiful views and scenery! The farm was voted most attractive farm in Loudoun County in a poll conducted by Leesburg Today. Cut your own tree! Saws provided (plenty of them). Tree carts to carry the trees from the fields provided. Free twine to tie your tree down and baling is available. No pets allowed.

Day Star Farm: Leesburg, VA
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Outdoor ice rinks in and around Washington, DC

November 24, 2020

In the past you could typically show up at local outdoor ice rinks. Of course, this year things will be different- most require a reservation so be sure to check each rinks protocols before heading out.

Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District– Downtown Columbia, MD
The new Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District is opening for the 2020 – 2021 season until January 31! The rink welcomes you with festive décor – the perfect place for date nights and family outings. There will be plenty of Holiday celebrations and themed events throughout the season, as well as music, food trucks, and the nearby Symphony of Lights at Merriweather Post Pavilion. For the safety and convenience of all guests, a limited number of visitors will be admitted to the ice rink every 30-minutes. All visits must be reserved in advance by purchasing a timed ticket(s) online.

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
Reservations required this season

Canal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
Typically open November – February and open on holidays

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
No information yet, typically open November 15 and continues through March 7, weather permitting.

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Reservations required this season

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
Typically open mid-October – mid-March

Wharf Ice Rink– 960 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Will not be opening this season due to the COVID 19 pandemic

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Postponing the opening due to the COVID 19 pandemic

Holiday light displays, outdoor markets and celebrations

November 20, 2020

Bull Run Festival of Lights- Nov. 6 – Jan. 10
Experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus.

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– Nov. 11 – Jan. 3
Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights in Vienna, Virginia. The garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated walk of lights. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Purchase tickets online.

Downtown Holiday Market- Nov. 20 – Dec. 23
The 16th Annual Downtown Holiday Market, Washington D.C.’s outdoor shopping village is a beloved outdoor market which continues to support small businesses and entrepreneurs across the region, welcoming shoppers for a safe, secure and enhanced shopping experience in the heart of the District this year. This year’s retail lineup will feature more than 70 exhibitors including Black-owned and minority-owned businesses from the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development’s (DSLBD) Made in DC program and this season’s trending styles from the BID’s District of Fashion Show local designer collections.

Ride the Reindeer Railway at B&O Railroad Museum– Nov. 20 – Jan. 3
The B&O celebrates the wonder and joy of the holiday season with family-friendly festivities. Our famous train is no exception! This year, the Mile One Express transforms into the Reindeer Railway offering a festive train ride on the nation’s first mile. The train ride includes child-size reindeer antlers for all child tickets. You can also reserve tickets to have breakfast with Santa.

Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens– Nov. 23 – Jan. 10
The United States Botanic Garden will have expanded online programming and limited holiday decorations this year. Festive adornments, winterberries, lights, and greenery will be placed in the Terrace Gardens and Bartholdi Park from Nov. 23, 2020, through Jan. 10, 2021. There will not be a train display this year, and the Conservatory and gated outdoor gardens remain closed at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Merriweather Symphony of Lights– Nov. 25 – Jan. 2
The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion. Made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. With the addition of new lights and a refreshed course, your time through the twinkling, winding path will surely be a night to remember! You can even celebrate New Year’s Eve with the entire family at the Symphony of Lights + a final walk through the light displays!

Winter Glow at Mount Vernon– Nov. 27 – 29, Dec. 11 – 13 & 26 – 28
Join for an enchanting evening of winter lights at Mount Vernon. See the estate illuminated with soft lights and holiday patterns as you listen to Christmas carolers and visit an 18th-century winter encampment.

Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park– Nov. 27 – Jan. 1
Bring a little twinkle to your holidays. Don’t miss this spectacular holiday drive-through event featuring more than 2.5 million twinkling lights! This year’s Festival features fun new displays.You won’t want to miss the giant, 54-foot LED musical tree! Purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Santa at B&O Railroad Museum and Northeast Maglev– Nov. 27
The holiday season is officially here when Santa comes to town, and we hope you’ll join us in greeting him when he arrives back in Baltimore aboard the B&O No. 6944! Santa’s locomotive will pull into the B&O Railroad Museum’s spacious Roundhouse, creating the perfect opportunity to take the first safe, socially distanced festive photos of the season. Once Santa enters the B&O to celebrate the Holiday Festival of Trains with you, additional seated photos will be available for purchase. Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks and the photo area is expanded to incorporate safe physical distancing. All activities and events are designed for a safe and fun visit so families can focus on the joy of the season. Tickets include full access to the B&O Holiday Festival of Trains offering a holiday wonderland of lights, Santa’s Winter Village shops and spectacular model train layouts to explore.

The Grinch’s Grotto at Tyson’s Corner– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31
This 2020 Holiday Season belongs to the Grinch. From the creators of The Dr. Seuss Experience, step into the Grinch’s Grotto, and commemorate the Grinchiest of years with our favorite green resident just north of Whoville. When you reserve your spot, you and your loved ones will get a rare opportunity to visit the Grinch in his special cave and strike a pose (or two) with him. Plus, you won’t leave empty-handed. Each group will emerge with not just a photo taken by a professional photographer, but also with a few extra special Grinchy surprises. Space will be very limited to ensure social distancing, so make sure and reserve your spot early! Now doesn’t all of this sound like a wonderful, awful idea?

Tenley WinterFest– Nov. 27 – Dec. 5
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.

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31 (closed on Dec. 25)
The wondrous themed display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park is a 3.5 mile drive through the enchanted setting taking you past more than 450 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that light up the night. Purchase tickets ahead of time.

Festival of Trees– Nov. 27 – Nov. 29
The festivities you love will be online. Tree and wreath sales, gift boutiques, games, auction and raffle will happen 24 hours a day. Plus, family entertainment each day! All to support the kids of Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Lighting of the Wharf Tree– Nov. 27 at 6:00pm
Kick off the holiday season at The Wharf as we officially light our Christmas tree and transform the waterfront into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. Bring your family to The Wharf for photos next to the 45-foot pine tree, then enjoy dinner together at one of our many restaurants. End your evening by roasting s’mores around the firepit at Camp Wharf!

Movies at the Wharf– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31
The holidays are the perfect time to cozy up by a firepit with hot drinks and a classic holiday movie on the big screen. Head to The Wharf throughout this holiday season for a pop-up outdoor movie theatre on Transit Pier where you can enjoy all the Christmas classics from your private firepit in front of a 20′ LED screen.

Home Alone: Fri. Nov. 27, 6pm | Sat. Nov. 28, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Nov. 29, 2pm
Elf: Fri. Dec. 4, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 5, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 6, 2pm
How the Grinch Stole Christmas:Fri. Dec. 11, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 12, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 13, 2pm
A Christmas Story: Fri. Dec. 18, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 19 , 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 20, 2pm
Miracle on 34th Street: Thu. Dec. 24, 2pm
Die Hard: Sat. Dec. 26, 2pm & 6pm
Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas: Sun. Dec. 27, 2pm & 6pm
The Polar Express: Mon. Dec. 28, 2pm & 6pm
The Santa Clause: Tue. Dec. 29, 2pm & 6pm
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Wed. Dec. 30, 2pm & 6pm
Gremlins: Thu. Dec. 31, 2pm

Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights– Dec. 1 – 31
Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting for a few days—stop by Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights to explore, shop, and play this holiday season. The businesses along Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street and the 800 Block of Upshur Street will be decked out with holiday lights. Wander the corridor with neighbors and visitors to enjoy amazing holiday events, activities, and promotions throughout the month. And don’t forget to VOTE for your favorite light displays between December 1st and 14th. Learn more about the competition and award categories.

National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse– Dec. 3 – Jan. 1
The show will be available to stream on-demand throughout the holiday season. Due to COVID-19-related public health concerns, the National Park Service (NPS) and National Park Foundation (NPF) will not host a live audience at the 2020 National Christmas Tree Lighting. The National Christmas Tree will be lit every evening throughout December. Visitors are invited to President’s Park to view the National Christmas Tree and 56 trees representing every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia, decorated with ornaments designed by students from across the country.

Christmas Village at Leesburg Animal Park– December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 22, & 23
Photos with Santa Claus from 6:30-8:30pm, Christmas arts & crafts room, live animal encounters, holiday photos with live animals, kid’s indoor play zone and more, bonfire & marshmallow roasting, thousands of outdoor holiday lights, nativity scene, animal petting & feeding, Christmas tree & wreath sales from local farms.

Merry & Bright at Tudor Place– Dec. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19
This holiday season, the Tudor Place garden will be illuminated with an array of lights. Explore sparkling garden rooms, twinkling lawns and shimmering tunnels of light. Stroll through the 5 ½ acre garden and celebrate the season at Tudor Place. Enjoy hot chocolate or hot cider on the South Lawn. Hourly tickets are available for purchase at 4:30pm, 5:30pm and 6:30pm.

Georgetown Glow– Dec. 4 – Jan. 10
Experience the sparkle of the season at Georgetown GLOW, the region’s only curated exhibition of outdoor public light art installations. Set against the historic backdrop of DC’s oldest neighborhood, it’s a whole new way to shine.

Holiday Market- Dec. 5, 12, & 19 from 10am – 2pm
Park View Farmers Market at Hook Hall this December for the Park View Holiday Market! The market will feature local artisans, makers, and food vendors. You will find hand-crafted gifts and holiday cheer. COVID-19 safety precautions will be strictly followed.

Lighting of the Menorah at the Wharf– Dec. 6 at 5:00pm
Come to The Wharf to celebrate the Festival of Lights. We’re continuing the annual tradition of lighting the menorah in District Square for each night of Hanukkah.

Light Yards– Dec. 7 – Jan. 10 from 6:00pm-10:00pm
The Yards is bringing back Light Yards for its fifth year at The Yards Park! Light Yards will continue its tradition as an opportunity to safely celebrate the holidays in a fun and socially-distant way during a time when many holiday traditions and events are not possible. The annual holiday installation will feature the premiere of the installation “Stars” by Australian-based immersive light design sculptors Amigo & Amigo. The larger-than-life stars constructed from metallic mesh feature dancing lights and play festive music, making for a perfect socially-distanced stroll for guests of all ages who want to safely experience some holiday cheer. This free-to-all installation will begin on December 7th and be illuminated nightly from 6-10pm at The Yards.

National Menorah Lighting on the Ellipse– Dec. 10 at 4:00pm
Grab tickets in advance!

Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple– December 11- December 28
The annual Festival of Lights is one of Washington, DC area’s great community traditions. The tradition continues for the 2020 Christmas season in a modified way, putting safety and health first. Beginning December 11th, the Festival of Lights will open as a drive-through experience.

Chanukah Experience– Dec. 12 & 13
The Chanukah Story comes to life with an epic audio-visual presentation in a Covid-safe manner. From the safety of their cars, families will literally drive-thru the Chanukah story as multiple illustrations, props and actors bring the 2500-year-old Chanukah story to life. Guided by a professionally created soundtrack, they will experience the Chanukah events as it would be happening in real-time. Participants will meet [at a distance] the Chanukah characters and pick up souvenirs and treats as they move through the Chanukah story.

Laurie Berkner’s ‘holiday party’– 12:00pm & 5:00pm
“Get out your holiday lights, dreidels, nutcrackers, candy canes, Hanukkah gelt, wreaths, and stockings!” says Laurie Berkner. “Maybe your Christmas tree or menorah is already out. You could make a gingerbread house, an ornament, or some hot cocoa, and bring them to the show. Let’s build a winter wonderland together!”

Holiday Market at Victura Park (Kennedy Center)- Through December 20
Trim the trees and light the candles, this winter season, Victura Park is transforming into a festive holiday market! Every weekend our weekend outdoor market will feature an amazing line up of local artists, craftspersons, and other specialized vendors.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo–
EFFECTIVE MONDAY, NOV. 23: As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, all Smithsonian museums will temporarily close. They are not announcing a reopening date at this time and will provide updates on websites and social media.

The District’s Holiday Boat Parade–
Cancelled this year

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens–
Will not open this season

Holidays on the Harbor–
Events are cancelled as of now

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights–
Cancelled this year

Holly Trolley Fest at National Capital Trolley Museum–
Currently closed

Breweries that have outdoor space for families in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC

October 23, 2020

Last year we published a blog post on family-friendly breweries which is a favorite of mine. We have not been going inside restaurants or bars however, so we bring you a list of breweries that have outdoor space large enough to social distance. Be sure to check the websites for protocols and hours as many breweries are closed a few days of the week. An alternative to taking the entire family to enjoy a brew– you can plan a great day date or overnight with adults and check out this Countryside Bike Tour published by Edible DC where you bike, drink and eat along the Washington and Old Dominion Trail (W&OD) and the Rock Creek Trail. Note: not all have outdoor space necessarily.

Maryland:

Lone Oak Farm– Olney, MD
Tons and tons of outdoor space. Bring a blanket incase the many picnic tables are occupied. They even have a small playground.

7 Locks Brewing– Rockville, MD
Pretty small outdoor space but there are picnic tables nonetheless. Perhaps a better place to go with adults.

The Brookeville Beer Farm– Brookeville, MD
A perfect brewery to bring a blanket and relax on the lawn, grab a brew and a pizza.

Denizens– Silver Spring, MD
They accept reservations in their beer garden for parties up to 6 people. The beer garden seating is weather dependent. They have some fire pits, but as the weather chills, they recommend you bring your own blanket!

Waredaca Brewing Company– Laytonsville, MD
Reservations are for two hours and a maximum of six people. Walk ins, dogs and families are welcome!

Virginia:

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery– Leesburg, VA
Another great place to spread out a blanket and play games. They have corn hole and other outdoor games to play along with a playground. A reader recommends to visit Temple Hall Farm while you are out that way; a working farm open free to the public.

Solace Brewing Company– Dulles, VA
Not much of an outdoor area for families– better for a date.

Dirt Farm Brewing– Bluemont, VA
Right up the hill from Great Country Farm with the most AMAZING views. Hang with the kids picking fruit at GCF and then head up the mountain to relax on the great lawn and play some games while you imbibe. They are open to outdoor seating only with plenty of space.

Port City Brewing– Alexandria, VA
Port City Brewing is thrilled to be open and accepting limited reservations for outdoor seating.

Caboose Brewery Company– Vienna, VA & Fairfax, VA
Both locations are incredibly family friendly. The Fairfax location seems to have a larger outdoor space.

Washington, DC:

Wunder Garten Beer Garden– NE, DC
Lawn games, a children’s play area and many outdoor tables.

Right Proper Brewing Company– Shaw & Brookland
With a small outdoor area, kids can keep themselves busy for a bit but take some games for more entertainment. They now take resvervations.

Bluejacket– SE, DC
The patio is open and you order online once you are seated.

Bardo Beer– SE, DC
The strangest setup but one of the most inventive. Situated between Nats Park and the water. You can enter from Riverwalk or Potomac Ave/S Capitol St SE. Perfect for pre-game or post-game hangout. TONS of seating and fun outdoor games, right next to the river! Also, dog friendly.

Ultimate guide to Halloween and fall in and around Washington, DC

October 7, 2020

There are many orchards and fall festivals that are adhering to social distancing guidelines for those of you who want to pick a pumpkin or sip warm apple cider this fall. We have been crossing off items from our fall bucket list and hope you are starting to enjoy the fun that comes with fall too. Here are the guidelines DC recommends in regards to Halloween and Día de los Muertos.

Outdoor and drive-in Halloween themed movies:
Park Up DC: child and adult movies
DC Party Box: spooktacular drive-in movies October 9-25
Capitol Riverfront movie series: movies through October 30
Halloween drive-up movie night: October 30

Halloween and fall events:
DC Party Box is aiming to save Halloween 2020 with a contactless drive thru trick or treating Halloween experience in Rockville and drive-in movies, complete with trick-or-treating (get candy and give-aways for the whole family) and interactive exhibits (LED screens, live actors, etc).

Creepy Climb at Summit Ropes: October 10, 17, 24 & 31
Creepy Climb starts this Saturday, October 10th at 6:45pm. Our once a year event will be held every Saturday evening thru October 31st. This is truly a unique experience that combines the ultimate indoor adventure with a low-level light display featuring all of your favorite Halloween haunts! There are only 40 passes available each Saturday, and they are selling out fast! This is an event you don’t want to miss, so click the button below to book your reservation. Your reservation is 75 minutes, which includes training, harnessing and 60 minutes of ropes adventure time. This is only held once a year so Book NOW!

Soul Strolls at Congressional Cemetery: October 16-17 & 23-24
Trespass into the past and discover the secrets of some of Congressional Cemetery’s “residents.” Soul Strolls, the Cemetery’s annual twilight tours, explore the stories of individuals buried here through guided tours and costumed interpreters. Experience the history of this hallowed ground exactly the way it should be experienced in October – in twilight and darkness, happening upon vignettes and individuals under the guidance of one of our “Dozen Decent Docents.” Hour-long tours depart every 15 minutes between 6 and 10 pm. Adult tickets are $35; children 12 and under are $15.

Glow in the Park: October 16, 24, 30 & 31
Glow in the Park at the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is available on select dates but some are sold out. 2 hours of climbing & ziplining, additional 40 minutes for the intial orientation. Tickets available every 10 minutes starting at 6pm until 8:20pm.

Halloween Toddler Time at B&O Railroad: October 22 at 10:00am
During this special Halloween Toddler Time, all participants enjoy a socially-distant craft at 10 AM and Halloween story time at 10:30 AM in our Roundhouse, followed by a costume parade, with pre-filled goodie bags available for pick-up at the end! Costumes recommended but not required. Event included with admission. Free for B&O Members.Story: Little Blue Truck’s Halloween by Alice Schertle

Drive thru at the Zoo: October 24 & 25 SOLD OUT
Start your engines and prepare for some spooky fun during Boo Drive Thru, sponsored by Mars Wrigley, a special edition of the beloved children’s trick-or-treating event. Pack your car full of ghouls, ghosts, princesses and superheroes and cruise down the Zoo’s North Road, all in support of Friends of the National Zoo. Supernatural sights await along your drive—and so do treat bags stuffed with M&Ms, Twix and more!

Fall Harvest Festival at Mount Vernon: October 24 & 25
Celebrate the crisp autumn season with 18th-century activities & demonstrations at the Farm at Mount Vernon.

Halloween in the Garden: October 24
Join Anne Marie Sculpture Garden for a socially-distanced, low-touch/no-touch day of Halloween fun and games! Working with local health department, they have reconfigured the beloved Halloween event into a family-group based celebration of the fall season. Activities will be spread out across 30 acres, giving families plenty of room to social distance! Dress up, put on your masks, and come enjoy an awesome day of socially-distanced trick-or-treating, low-touch/no-touch games, great photo opps, music, and yummy food and drinks!

Fall Frolic at Lee-Fendall House: October 24
Enjoy some safe and seasonal fun with the family in the garden of the Lee-Fendall House during our Fall Frolic! Put on your Halloween costumes and join for crafts, a ghost hunt, a Trick or Treat walk, and more! Sessions are at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance. Only 10 participating children per session, plus accompanying family members, face masks are required.

My Gym Halloween Party: October 24, 30 & 31
Dress up in your favorite costume (and mask!) and join for a 45 minute Halloween-themed circle time, games, a costume parade, and not so spooky fun! They’ve decorated and planned for both In Gym and Outdoor entertainment to make it fun and exciting for the kids as well as safe and comfortable for parents. Every child will leave with a My Gym Halloween Treat! My Gym Potomac – In Gym Events (Up to 9 children/adults) on Oct. 24th 10am and 11am & Oct. 31st 10am and 11am. Outdoor Events: Inverness Recreation Club field: Oct. 24th 3pm and 4pm & Oct. 30th 4pm and 5pm

Virtual Halloween Concert: October 30 at 6:30pm
What do Sharon and Randi and their family do for Halloween during a pandemic? They dress up in costumes and make music together, of course! Fans of all ages are invited to dress up in their Halloween attire and join Sharon and Randi for a very special LIVE virtual show, SKINNAMARINK with Sharon and Randi, Back by Popular Demand!

Trackside Trivia: Halloween Edition at B&O Railroad: October 30
from 6:00-10:00pm
Trackside Trivia returns for a frightfully fun night of spooky trivia, drinks, food, and laughs! Whether you want to scare the competition stiff or just distract them with laughter, costumes are encouraged. We’re even holding a special Halloween themed scavenger hunt to keep you on your toes! Pre-ordered tickets include one free drink.

Hill-O-Ween: October 30 from 5:30-7:30pm
Capitol Hill celebrates Halloween as a community each year in front of Eastern Market on 7th St. Count on moon bounces, hay rides, treats, face painting and many, many costumes.

“Halloween Party” LIVE Virtual Family Concerts: October 31 at 12:00pm and 5:00pm
Double the fun, a family ticket grants admission to one or both livestreams! To join in the fun, fans of all ages should plan to grab their superhero capes, their instruments (or noisemakers), their dancin’ shoes, and a stuffed animal (for their heads)! Halloweeny stuffed animals like cats, bats, or even friendly monsters would be great for kids to bring to this show.

The Station at Riverdale Park’s: October 31, from 1:00pm-4:00pm
Join this FREE, family-friendly Halloween event. The Station will be hosting socially-distanced outdoor activities including mini golf, a self-guided photo scavenger hunt, prize raffle, and more! Guests can also enjoy food and drinks from The Station’s retailers including Denizens, District Taco, and more as well as a food truck on-site, and of course, candy.

Rockville Sweet Treat Drive Thru & Car Costume Contest: October 31 from 1:00pm-5:00pm
Join a fun and safe way to Trick-or-Treat in your car while maintaining social distancing. Celebrate this Halloween in style, get the family together and decorate your car in the Halloween spirit and you could win a prize! Children will also be able to take home a goodie bag with Halloween cookie (gluten free), crafts and candy. So, grab your keys, dress up in your favorite costumes, and make your way to the park to collect sweet treats and crafts at fun Halloween stations throughout the parking lot.

Mister G Help Save Halloween virtual concert: October 31 at 4:00pm and 7:00pm
There will be two worldwide virtual concerts from the historic Academy of Music Theatre. Tickets are FREE, but space is limited so sign up here to claim a front row seat in your living room. Each family that reserves their free spot to our Help Save Halloween costume party will also receive a printable activity pack.

Halloween Spooktacular: October 31
Enjoy trick-or-treating, socially-distanced fun and activities, a family-friendly movie, pizza, popcorn and more at The St. James. Halloween Spooktacular is a great way to enjoy a fun-filled, safe Halloween evening. Bring your own blanket for socially-distanced family movie night in The St. James Field House. Your ticket includes the following: Trick-or-treating (pre-wrapped candy only), Halloween activities and fun (masks required), 1 slice of pizza, 1 bag of popcorn, Spot in the Field House to watch Hotel Transylvania.

Corn mazes:
Liberty Mills Farm– Virginia’s largest corn maze
Winterbrook Farm– Maryland’s largest corn maze
Summers Farm
Montpelier Farm
Wayside Farm

Date nights:
Halloween Hayride & Haunted Bonfire
Enjoy a tractor driven hayride in the darkness with demons and devils. We will then gather around a HAUNTED bonfire where we can enjoy roasting hotdogs, marshmallows and making s’mores (all will be provided and included in the ticket)!

Grief & Ghost Tours at Lee-Fendall House: October 23 & 24, 30 & 31
Celebrate Halloween with a look at Victorian mourning traditions coupled with stories of tragic deaths and mysterious occurrences at the Lee-Fendall House. Customs such as draping the mirrors after a death, funeral practices, hair jewelry, mourning clothing, and séances will be explored. These tours offer a rare opportunity to see the house after dark. Tickets are $10 and must be reserved in advance due to limited space. Face masks are required.

Markoff’s Haunted Forest
Field of Screams
Ebe Haunts Trail of Terror
Fields of Fear
Shocktober
Six Flags Fright Fest