Beltway Bambinos

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

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

Maryland Renaissance Festival takes place on weekends from August 26-October21, 2018. The Ren Fest will be full of jousting while serving up lots of turkey legs! Take a time machine back to medieval times where you’ll see wizards, knights and wenches. With plenty of entertainment, including music, jousting, mazes, puppetry, pony rides, a huge pirate playground and so much more. Your children will see people dressed up in 16th century outfits and will be begging to participate while staring in awe. Dress like a knight and come participate or just watch! 

Be sure and check out all of the programs DC Library has to offer.

Saturday

10:00am-5:00pm: Celebrations of Textile: Turkey at George Washington University Textile Museum
The museum’s 39th-annual family festival celebrates the textile arts and cultures of Turkey. Watch local artists weave, spin, embroider, and more; enjoy traditional dance performances; and explore spectacular rugs woven by nomadic women through family-friendly tours of A Nomad’s Art: Kilims of Anatolia. Free; no reservations required. A note about the weather: Celebration of Textiles will be held indoors at the museum. If there is any change to the university’s operating status due to Hurricane Florence, information will be posted here. 

10:15am & 11:30am: Saturday Morning Story Sessions at Strathmore: Spellbound Theatre Under the Tree
This fall, families gather once a week for fun and creativity, enjoying diverse and dynamic programs with the very best storytellers in the area who engage young audiences and instill a love of learning with every word. Recommended for ages 3–8. The 10:15am performances are sensory-friendly for children with autism or other disabilities that create sensory sensitivities. “A young girl escapes her noisy life and takes us on an immersive exploration of a magical world in her own backyard. Told through puppetry, multimedia, and interactive storytelling, this unique performance brings the outdoor world to life in the Mansion.”

10:30am: Rainbow Rock Band at Jammin Java
Join the Rainbow Rock Band for the CD release show for their new album, “Total Eclipse of the Rainbow.” Rooted in education and movement, the Rainbow Rock Band uses music to assist in comprehension of academic skills like, colors, numbers, weather and more, and their latest CD release is no different. “Total Eclipse of the Rainbow is a super fun educational trip around the sun!

11:00am-5:00pm: Glover Park Day is ON! at Guy Mason Rec Center 
Glover Park Day is GPCA’s annual outdoor festival that celebrates the Glover Park neighborhood in Washington, DC. It is co-with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. Glover Park Day is usually held on the first Saturday in June. Glover Park Day was started 29 years ago and it has grown over the years to offer the neighborhood a chance to enjoy the outdoors together, spend time with family and friends, listen to good music and enjoy our local businesses and restaurants. This year we hope to have the best Glover Park Day ever, bringing the community, local businesses and friends together to celebrate.

1:00pm-3:00pm: Creek Critters Day at Little Falls Creek
Hunt for Macro Invertebrates and Discover Who Lives in the Little Falls Creek! It looks like the rain will be over, so we invite you to join Little Falls Watershed Alliance for a fun family activity identifying critters in the creek. We have all the tools you need to capture and ID the macro-invertebrates that live in the water. Bring your smart phone as we will be using the Creek Critters app created by the Audubon Naturalist Society for this activity. We have smart phone covers so don’t worry about it getting wet. And if you don’t have a smart phone, we can pair you someone who does. We also have a few boots to lend! RAIN PLANS:  Please check our website to see if the event is cancelled due to rain.  We will decide Saturday by 11:00 am.

Sunday

10:00am-Closing: Monkey Joe’s Birthday
All locations will offer $5 admission all day as well as birthday cake and prize giveaways throughout the celebration. Guests can also join in singing happy birthday to the children’s favorite mascot, Monkey Joe, and a dance party. Prizes and giveaways will vary by location. Locations will be open at 10:00 a.m. for the birthday celebration and will close as each location’s standard closing time.

11:00am-4:00pm: Children’s Day at Brookside Gardens
Join Brookside Gardens as they celebrate the magnificent state of Maryland and the opening of the newly themed Children’s Garden, “Explore Maryland”. Enjoy crafts and activities that interpret the western MD Appalachian Mountains, the central agricultural basin and the eastern shore of Maryland. Try a climbing wall, pot up a black-eyed Susan (the Maryland state flower), learn how to save the Bay and dance to live music by students from the Tree House School of Rock, and more. Intended for All Ages

12:30pm & 1:30pm: Art Jamz Graffiti Party
It is time to get messy like a street artist at our $10 Kidz Graffiti Party and get 1 hour of studio time to paint the wall. The lounge will be open for accompanying parents and we’ll be playing jamming tunes to inspire all the little artist. Afterwards, your family can purchase additional studio time and canvas and let your vision come to life off the wall. 

Need more options for the weekend? 
Additional Indoor Fun 

Indoor Fun Guide

BloomBars

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

Maryland Renaissance Festival takes place on weekends from August 26-October21, 2018. The Rent Fest will be full of jousting while serving up lots of turkey legs! Take a time machine back to medieval times where you’ll see wizards, knights and wenches. With plenty of entertainment, including music, jousting, mazes, puppetry, pony rides, a huge pirate playground and so much more. Your children will see people dressed up in 16th century outfits and will be begging to participate while staring in awe. Dress like a knight and come participate or just watch! This weekend is the only time they offer kids entry as FREE.

Be sure and check out all of the programs DC Library has to offer.

WashingCon will be at Georgetown Hotel and Convention Center at Georgetown University. Before you read further, see this event page— looks amazing!! The doors open at 10am on Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday the Main Hall and the Game Library close at 11pm but the West Lobby and the South Gallery stay open until the wee hours of the night so feel free to come hang out until late (especially if you are staying at the hotel!) 

Friday

5:30pm-7:30pm: Ice Cream Social & DJ Dance Party at Turtle Park/Friendship
FREE ice cream & FREE family dance with Deejay! First come, first serve for ice cream while it lasts…School’s back in session and we’re all in town! Brought to you by Friends of Friendship Park*FOFP is the 501(c)3 non-profit that supports, beautifies and holds special events at Turtle Park roughly monthly.

6:00pm-9:00pm: Friday Night Live Concert Series
Kick off your weekend with live entertainment, great company, and fantastic food, wine and beer from the restaurants at Rockville Town Square 
on The Square in Rockville Town Square. Music ranges from 80’s and 90’s cover bands, funk and soul, roots rock blues and southern rock.

Lot opens 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 7:30, Film begins 8:00, Film ends at 9:30: Union Market Drive-In: The Lion King
$10 parking fee per car. Advance purchase is highly recommended. Free for walk-ups. Excited for the drive-in but don’t have a car? A Lion cub crown prince is tricked by a treacherous uncle into thinking he caused his father’s death and flees into exile in despair, only to learn in adulthood his identity and his responsibilities. 1h 28 min, rated G

7:00pm-9:00pm: 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.

Saturday

10:00am-2:00pm: Hirshhorn Library + Pop-Up
Check it out! Find our cart in the gallery and check out a kit to use inside the Museum. Kits include a children’s book, suggested artworks for viewing, and hands-on materials.

10:00am-1:00pm:  Glen Echo: Saturday Art Explorers 
Drop in for an art activity and play in the Candy Corner Studio for $5, no need to pre-register. Play on the playground afterwards, look around the Glen Echo Park Aquarium or catch a show at Adventure Theatre or the Puppet Co.

11:00am-5:00pm:The Kensington Train Show
A Benefit for Noyes Children’s Library Foundation and The Kensington Historical Society. Admission:  $7 for adults/$2 for children/$15 for a family

12:30pm-3:00pm: 1, 2, 3 Andres at MLK, Jr Library
Sing, Talk and Read = STAR
Singing, talking and reading with your baby or young child now can help them later in school. It’s never too early to give your kids a smart start.
Come to DC Public Library’s STAR Family Festival featuring:

  • Workshops for parents to support your child’s early learning
  • Fun activities, crafts and games for children
  • Free children’s books
  • Music!

Sunday

11:00am-5:00pm:The Kensington Train Show
A Benefit for Noyes Children’s Library Foundation and The Kensington Historical Society. Admission:  $7 for adults/$2 for children/$15 for a family

12:00pm-5:00pm: Dinomite Dinosaur Day at Port Discovery
Visit us on Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9 for Dinomite Dinosaur Days and the closing of the temporary Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice exhibit. Enjoy a Paleo-Expedition as you are guided through a dino-themed story time; participate in a Tiny Dino Dig while engaging in creative, interactive play; and learn how to dance like a dinosaur in Dino-cize! Practice your game show skills and test your dinosaur knowledge in our I Know Dino Game Show! and tap into your inner creative as your make-and-take DinosART paper dinosaurs home! Many activities taking place Saturday & Sunday.

Make a day out of being in Baltimore!

12:00pm-6:00pm: Adams Morgan Day
Celebrating its 40th year this year, Adams Morgan Day is Washington’s longest running neighborhood festival. Adams Morgan Day is a family-friendly celebration with music, art and activities for all ages. We welcome residents and visitors alike to meet our neighborhood businesses, artists and service organizations. Attendance and entertainment is free, and most businesses and restaurants offer deals for the day.

Rainy day indoor options:

Indoor Fun

BloomBars

Madame Tussauds

 

Make sure you LIKE us on Facebook for updates and fun articles.

We are also on Instagram! 

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

The Montgomery County Fair began Aug. 10 and lasts through Aug. 18. Tickets are $10.00 for adults & children 11 & under are free. See event calendar for Monster Truck and Demolition Derby dates! Click for more info on kidzone activities, free entertainment and ride info.  

The Arlington County Fair takes place Aug. 15-19. In addition to the normal fair food, rides and entertainment, there is a Kids Court full of family friendly fun!

Join your kiddo and have a Smithsonian Sleepover at Udvar-Hazy Center Saturday-Sunday. There’s no more perfect setting for dreams of flight than the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. Sleepover guests are on a mission to explore the whole world of flight, from its pioneering days through the era of commercial aviation to the excitement of today’s space program. Grab your flight checklist and 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 are on hand to offer lots of great information and insights about the aviation treasures on view. Start the countdown to a one-of-a-kind adventure!

Friday

5:30pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
The Jazz in the Garden Series begins its 18th season in May. The free concert series features jazz artists performing a wide variety of styles—Traditional New Orleans jazz, blues, swing, Ska, Funk, Pan-Caribbean salsa, boogaloo, Go-go, and more—every Friday evenings in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. You can purchase food and adult beverages or bring your own picnic (but no adult bevs are allowed in).

6:00pm-9:00pm: Friday Night Live Concert Series
Kick off your weekend with live entertainment, great company, and fantastic food, wine and beer from the restaurants at Rockville Town Square 
on The Square in Rockville Town Square. Music ranges from 80’s and 90’s cover bands, funk and soul, roots rock blues and southern rock.

7:00pm-9:00pm: 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.

Saturday

10:00am-11:00am: 123 Andrés at Mason District Park
He is one of the most exciting new voices on the children’s music scene – his music makes everyone sing, dance and learn – in Spanish and English. A native of Colombia, both his debut CD and his live performances are infused with south of the border sensibilities. 123 Andrés has deep roots in the Latin music world, with over a decade of experience playing Latin Jazz, Salsa, Norteño and Latin folkloric music. He has been hailed by Billboard as a “rock star for little language learners.”

11:00am-7:00pm: Around the World Cultural Food Festival at Freedom Plaza
The event is ADMISSION FREE, with plenty of food and beverages available for purchase. Come enjoy delicious foods from around the world while watching a diverse folk show with singers and dancers from different countries, as well as a fashion show with traditional outfits from some of our participating countries. Around The World Cultural Food Festival creates a Cultural and Educational Experience like no other in the DMV. Our restaurants do not only sell food; they showcase, educate and teach their culture through food. With only one (1) restaurant per country ~ we are carefully selecting the best of the best for our attendees! The festival delivers a once in a year experience in which our vendors are encouraged to present The Best of The Best from their countries.

2:00pm: Palindrome Party at Chevy Chase DC Library
Celebrate palindromes on this palindromic date (8-18-18).  Palindromes are words, phrases or other sequences that read the same forwards and backwards. Play palindrome games, listen to palindromic music and learn fun trivia about palindromes. Enjoy palindrome-themed art and books. Whether you know a “Hannah” or “Bob,” or have a “mom” or “dad” or “pup” or “sis,” or were born in “2002,” or have traveled in “a Toyota” or “kayak,” or just want to enjoy some zany palindrome fun, please join us. We guarantee you’ll leave knowing some fabulous palindromes you didn’t know before. All ages are welcome. Children ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday

10:00am-12:00pm: Red Panda Art Studio Feathered Friends
Workshops will include open art exploration, sensory stations, a related story, and a guided project. Each workshop is $30/child.

3:30pm-4:15pm: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
You and your child (ages 1-5) are invited to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. Featured story: Pete the Cat. Get your tickets!

Ongoing activities:
Fun House at National Building Museum
Wings of Fancy at Brookside Gardens
Tinkerbell at Adventure Theatre
You’re a good man, Charlie Brown at Imagination Stage

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

Celebrate nature, culture and community at the annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens this weekend from 10:00am-5:00pm. The TWO-DAY festival features performances from cultures around the world, family fun games, arts and crafts and the amazingly beautiful lotuses and water lilies in full bloom! Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a one-of-a-kind experience within Anacostia Park. Celebrate the Centennial of Anacostia Park at one of D.C.’s hidden gems during the Year of the Anacostia.

Friday

10:00am-3:00pm: Mars Day! 2018
The National Air and Space Museum’s annual Mars Day! celebrates the Red Planet with educational and fun activities for all ages that expose visitors to the latest developments in planetary science. Talk to scientists active in Mars research and mission planning, learn about current and future missions, and see a real meteorite from Mars.

5:30pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
The Jazz in the Garden Series begins its 18th season in May. The free concert series features jazz artists performing a wide variety of styles—Traditional New Orleans jazz, blues, swing, Ska, Funk, Pan-Caribbean salsa, boogaloo, Go-go, and more—every Friday evening from 5:00pm to 8:30pm in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. You can purchase food and adult beverages or bring your own picnic (but no adult bevs are allowed in).

6:00pm-9:00pm: Friday Night Live Concert Series
Kick off your weekend with live entertainment, great company, and fantastic food, wine and beer from the restaurants at Rockville Town Square from 6:00pm-9:00pm 
on The Square in Rockville Town Square. Music ranges from 80’s and 90’s cover bands, funk and soul, roots rock blues and southern rock.

7:00pm-9:00pm: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.

Saturday

10:00am: First Studio at The Kreeger Museum
Children are invited to use their imaginations as they explore the paintings, sculpture, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each First Studio includes a gallery tour, a story, and a hands-on art-making experience. An adult companion is required and art-making attire is recommended. Read about our wonderful experience here.

10:00am-5:00pm: Dinomite Dinosaur Day and Power Plant Live! & Port Discovery Family Fun Day!
Enjoy a Paleo-Expedition as you are guided through a dino-themed story time; participate in a Tiny Dino Dig while engaging in creative, interactive play; and work up a sweat as you explore body movement through physical activity in Dino-cize! Practice your game show skills and test your dinosaur knowledge in our I Know Dino Game Show! and tap into your inner creative as your make-and-take DinosART paper dinosaurs home! Plus, as part of the PowerPlant Live! and Port Discovery Family Fun Day Series, enjoy access to indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family! All-Access wristbands that include admission to PowerPlant Live’s outdoor family events plus Port Discovery will be on sale for just $15. Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

10:00am-3:00pm: Day of Archaeology Festival
(See picture below)

10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm:  Art Investigators: Mary Cassatt
How do you investigate a work of art? This program helps children make careful observations, analyze artists’ choices, ask questions, and use their imagination while exploring works of art. Led by museum educators, each program includes reading a children’s book, exploring one work of art in the galleries, and completing a simple hands-on activity. Each program is approximately 60 min.

11:00am: Story Time with Washington Nationals Player at Cleveland Park Library
Meet Washington Nationals Pitcher Sean Doolittle at this special story time event for families. He will share stories and answer questions.

1:00pm-2:00pm: “Magic & Music & Stuff!” at Davis Library
a show of impossible magic tricks and off the wall comedy all themed around music, sound and noises. Come prepared to join in the show. This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Davis Chapter. This is a summertime program for children of all ages and their families. Tickets will be given out one half hour before program. Best for ages five and up.

6:00pm-8:45pm: Friends of Friendship “Turtle” Park presents: The Turtle Park Jazz Project! 
Variety of food and ice cream trucks on hand! Bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy a summer evening at the park for adults and kids of all ages!

Sunday

11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm: Art Investigators: Mary Cassatt
How do you investigate a work of art? This program helps children make careful observations, analyze artists’ choices, ask questions, and use their imagination while exploring works of art. Led by museum educators, each program includes reading a children’s book, exploring one work of art in the galleries, and completing a simple hands-on activity. Each program is approximately 60 minutes.

3:30pm-4:15pm: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
You and your child (ages 1-5) are invited to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. Featured story: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. Get your tickets!

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Holes
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! They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm.

 

See a fabulous kid-friendly show this weekend!

Posts you may like:
All Aboard!
Kids Eat Free

Plan ahead:
Loudoun County Fair: July 23-28
Tanabata: The Japanese Star Festival at Hillwood Museum: July 28
Yoga in the Sculpture Garden at Kreeger Museum: July 28

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

MLB All Star Week in Washington, DC begins Friday!! In addition to Home Run Derby and the All Star Game, Play Ball Park will be located at The Yards, Parcel A, Lot 854 Square, located at the Intersection of First and M Streets SE, Washington, D.C. It is a 56,000 square feet interactive area that MLB and its programming partners will provide fun, engaging, and educational activities for youth baseball and softball players and their families – all in the backdrop of the Midsummer Classic.

See a fabulous kid-friendly show this weekend!

Junior Food Festival at Mt. Airy Carnival Grounds welcomes Michael C. Platt from season 4 of Kids Baking Championship on Food Network. Grab your friends and family for a fun, food-filled weekend out! At the Junior Food Festival, there is something for everyone all weekend long.

Comcast Film Festival is pleased to announce the film fest 2018 dates for this summer! Bring your low beach chair, blanket, family and friends to this fun annual event and watch family favorite Coco on July 13 and the blockbuster Wonder Woman on July 14 with the stars above and the Potomac River as the backdrop. Comcast and the City of Alexandria welcome you back to scenic Waterfront Park for the 16th Annual Comcast Outdoor Film Festival. Located just one block from King Street on the Potomac River, we are offering two nights of FREE Outdoor Movies on our four story high movie screen in full HD.

The Nextival was created by Billy Zero in 2016 to give the local community and place to come together to share in community, art, culture, food, drink, music & entertainment. July 13 (5-10pm) // July 14 (11-10pm) // July 15th (11-5pm)

Friday

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.

Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
The Jazz in the Garden Series begins its 18th season in May. The free concert series features jazz artists performing a wide variety of styles—Traditional New Orleans jazz, blues, swing, Ska, Funk, Pan-Caribbean salsa, boogaloo, Go-go, and more—every Friday evening from 5:00pm to 8:30pm in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. You can purchase food and adult beverages or bring your own picnic (but no adult bevs are allowed in).

Friday Night Live Concert Series
Kick off your weekend with live entertainment, great company, and fantastic food, wine and beer from the restaurants at Rockville Town Square from 6:00pm-9:00pm 
on The Square in Rockville Town Square. Music ranges from 80’s and 90’s cover bands, funk and soul, roots rock blues and southern rock.

Saturday

(Various times) Art Investigators: Vincent van Gogh
How do you investigate a work of art? This program helps children make careful observations, analyze artists’ choices, ask questions, and use their imagination while exploring works of art. Led by museum educators, each program includes reading a children’s book, exploring one work of art in the galleries, and completing a simple hands-on activity. Each program is approximately 60 minutes. Friday, July 13 & Saturday, July 14 10:30, 11:30, 12:30

8:00pm: DC United
Cheer on the home team in the NEW stadium!!

Sunday


11:30, 12:30, 1:30: Art Investigators: Vincent van Gogh
How do you investigate a work of art? This program helps children make careful observations, analyze artists’ choices, ask questions, and use their imagination while exploring works of art. Led by museum educators, each program includes reading a children’s book, exploring one work of art in the galleries, and completing a simple hands-on activity. Each program is approximately 60 minutes.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Alice Through the Looking Glass
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! . They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm

 

Related Posts:
Madame Tussauds
Outdoor Movies
Cool Off
Ice Cream!

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

Smithsonian Folklife Festival established in 1967, honors contemporary living cultural traditions and celebrates those who practice and sustain them. Produced annually by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the Festival has featured participants from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. The free Festival takes place for two weeks every summer and ends this weekend, overlapping the Fourth of July holiday. It is an educational, research-based presentation that features master artisans and other tradition bearers.Visitors are invited to sing and dance along, try craft and game workshops, learn traditional recipes, ask questions, and take part in this unique cultural exchange.

The Washington Nationals take on the Florida Marlins all weekend.

See a fabulous kid-friendly show this weekend!

  • Paper Dreams is at Imagination Stage which brings to life their first DANCE performance based show, perfect for ages 1-5 that explores the many facets of creativity. A fun, interactive production that tells the story of two delightful creatures who live inside a wastepaper basket. Can our greatest mistake actually turn out to be the next greatest innovative idea?
  • Imagination Stage also has You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown for the older audience. You don’t want to miss your chance to see the comic strip characters of the lovable “Peanuts” gang comic brought to life! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally, and Schroeder as they sing and dance their way through the timeless struggles of childhood. This show features catchy songs, including “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”, and is the perfect family outing for the young and young at heart!
  • Adventure Theatre has everyone believing in fairies with Tinkerbell. Everyone knows the story of Peter Pan. Or, at least, everyone thinks they do. But unless you have heard it from Tinker Bell’s point of view, you really have not heard it at all. A new twinkling light shines on all the characters you love including, Wendy, the Lost Boys, Peter Pan, Smee, and the nefarious Hook from a feisty fairy’s point of view.
  • Glen Echo Puppet Co has Old MacDonald’s Farm and Snow White and the 7 Dwarves for a variety of audiences.
  • The Pop-Ups take on Wolf Trap Theatre-in-the-Woods. Described as “Flaming Lips for kids” (NPR), The Pop Ups will be sure to bring the house down with their rock ‘n’ roll puppet musical.

Saturday

9:00am-12:00pm: Home Depot Kids Workshop: Fishing Game
Reel in the summer fun in our hands-on workshop where you and your child can build a fishing game while tackling educational and developmental skills. Once your fishing game is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. Recommended Ages: 5-12. All Kids Workshop attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron, and pin.

10:00am-11:30am: Twos Travelers at The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center: Monkeying Around
Are you ready for some monkey business? We’ll begin by learning about monkeys and some of their unique characteristics, and end our morning visiting Xu Bing’s Monkeys Grasp for the Moon that spans the three floors of the Sackler Gallery. The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center opens its doors on the weekends to local families. Their unique programs combine playful classroom activities with visits to nearby museums. Each program is developed especially for the age group and with a unique theme.

10:00am-1:00pm: Art Explorers at Glen Echo
Activities change weekly. Drop in for a 1/2 hour art project. No pre-registration; $5 per parent/child pair, or $8 for two children with adult. Parent/Child Drop-in Art Activities.  (Most activities take approximately 30 minutes). Best for kids under age 10.

10:30am: Reel Fun at National Gallery of Art
Join us for fourteen short films from around the world—Mexico, Russia, Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, France, Lithuania, and the USA! With visually innovative animation, the program features the best from the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Approximately 60 minutes. For families with children ages 4 and up

Sunday

10:00am-11:30am: Twos Travelers at The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center: Monkeying Around
Are you ready for some monkey business? We’ll begin by learning about monkeys and some of their unique characteristics, and end our morning visiting Xu Bing’s Monkeys Grasp for the Moon that spans the three floors of the Sackler Gallery. The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center opens its doors on the weekends to local families. Their unique programs combine playful classroom activities with visits to nearby museums. Each program is developed especially for the age group and with a unique theme.

11:00am: Rocnoceros at Lubber Run Amphitheater
These three bandmates of Rocknoceros “grew up” (if they ever did) in Northern Virginia, and have been making award-winning music for the whole family since 2005. They have gained significant national recognition performing at the Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap. Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits and perform regularly at Jammin’ Java.

11:30am: Reel Fun at National Gallery of Art
Join us for fourteen short films from around the world—Mexico, Russia, Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, France, Lithuania, and the USA! With visually innovative animation, the program features the best from the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Approximately 60 minutes. For families with children ages 4 and up.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Little Rascals
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! . They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm

 

Plan Ahead:
Open play in Little Loft‘s Sensory Room for 2-5 year olds and their caregivers. Sand table, rice table, light table, and a new interactive art project each week. No preregistration necessary. $8/visit, half price for siblings. Summer Hours: 
June 18-August 24 (closed July 2-6) Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, 4:00-6:00pm.

July 10: Shakespeare in the Parks

Related Posts:
Outdoor Movies

Cool Off

Ice Cream!

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

Friday & Saturday evening, Mount Vernon is celebrating Independence Day. Enjoy a patriotic evening filled with dazzling fireworks, Mansion tours, musical performances, and games on George Washington’s beloved estate! Fireworks begin at approximately 9:30pm.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival established in 1967, honors contemporary living cultural traditions and celebrates those who practice and sustain them. Produced annually by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the Festival has featured participants from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. The free Festival takes place for two weeks every summer, overlapping the Fourth of July holiday. It is an educational, research-based presentation that features master artisans and other tradition bearers.Visitors are invited to sing and dance along, try craft and game workshops, learn traditional recipes, ask questions, and take part in this unique cultural exchange.

Breakfast with the Bears at the National Zoo will run on Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, July 1 from 9-10:30am. This is a class you can surely sink your teeth into. Learn about the favorite foods of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s three species of bears, and then join us for outdoor snack time outside one of the bear exhibits! 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.

Friday

5:00pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
The free concert series features jazz artists performing a wide variety of styles—Traditional New Orleans jazz, blues, swing, Ska, Funk, Blues, Pan-Caribbean salsa, boogaloo, Go-go, and more. During jazz concerts, the Pavilion Café offers a special menu of creative American cuisine and refreshments. Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into the Sculpture Garden but may be purchased at the café. (Picture above)

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

8:00am-1:00pm: 11th Annual City-Wide Truck Touch
This event will feature a variety of free activities for kids and adults. A host of DC government agencies will present and demonstrate nearly 30 vehicles used to clean and repair streets, change traffic lights, collect refuse, clear snow, provide emergency services, administer mobile healthcare, and more. Free boxed lunches will be provided to kids age 18 and under.

10:15am: Children’s Art Talk & Tour at Strathmore
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.

10:30am: The Wizard of Oz at Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
Rediscover the joy of following the yellow brick road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion as they travel through a reimagined world of Oz!

11:00am:  A Day at the Beach at Little Falls Library
Meet some animals that leave at the seashore! Under the Sea presents “A Day at the Beach,” a virtual tour of a beach on the Atlantic coast. You’ll learn about beach features like sand, waves, tides, dunes, and jetties. Children will meet some of the animals that call beaches home and learn about beach food chains during this lively and educational presentation by a marine scientist. This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County Inc and is appropriate for the entire family, but especially ages four and up. Space is limited; free tickets will be handed out 30 minutes before the program begins.

Sunday

(Photo: Red Panda Art Studio)

10:00am-5:00pm: KID Museum
KID Museum is an innovative learning space unlike any other in the DC region. The museum provides hands-on learning that incorporates STEM, art, and culture with 21st century skills like creativity and critical thinking. Click above link for the day’s events.

3:30pm-4:15pm: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
You and your child (ages 1-5) are invited to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. Featured story: Elephant & Piggie. Get your tickets!

4:00pm-5:30pm: Red Panda Art Studio Pop-in Drop-in
Red Panda Art Studio will be opening a Summer Pop-Up location to fulfill all of your creative needs during the month of July at the WAS Gallery in the Westwood II Shopping Center in Bethesda. Come check out the new studio space and celebrate their opening with a selection of their favorite sensory activities and projects, geared towards ages 3 to 8. Drop-off welcome. $25/child.

Other articles you may be interested in: 

Kids Eat Free in DC

Summer Camp Guide

Local Theatre Performances

Plum Print: Children’s artwork turned into a beautiful book

Anyone like me and save every piece of art work your child creates until you have an overflowing pile sitting on tables and covering the refrigerator? For five years, I divided my sons masterpieces to send to grandparents while guiltily slipping some in the trashcan and hanging several in the playroom while the remaining are collecting dust in the attic. That was until I stumbled upon an amazing service that solves the issue of keeping every drawing around and I want EVERYONE to know about it- Plum Print.

PlumPrint1

It is so simple! They will take piles of your child’s artwork and transform them into elegant coffee-table books. It is so simple and such a genius idea!! Simply put a $39.99 deposit down (which later is applied to the cost of your book), they will send you a large box to pile your child’s artwork, report cards, photos (anything!) in along with a prepaid shipping sticker for the box to be picked up from your doorstep. If you want, you can organize the art work and include captions or you can simply throw everything into the box and be done with it. A few days later you will receive an email indicating they have your art, you will approve a digital proof before it is completed and sent out to you. You can choose between different sized books as well as turning artwork into pillows, calendars, posters, shower curtains and more.

PlumPrint5

Sign up here to get the empty box sent to you this week and get the clutter off of your table and bring happiness to your child as they will flip through their very own book of masterpieces that will be treasured forever. You will be amazed by the final product and will be eager each June to order your box as the school year ends and get the artwork made into the book.

logo design courtesy of New Leaf Design