Beltway Bambinos

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

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    • 15 family friendly hikes
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    • Outdoor fun
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    • 20 classic outdoor games
    • Trains and carousels
  • Beltway Bambinos Concierge
    • Customized itineraries
    • Introducing Beltway Bambinos Concierge
  • About
  • Beltway Travel
    • Introducing Beltway Travel
    • Family Summer Getaways
    • Traveling with Little Ones?
    • Why Now is the Time to Plan
    • Travel Advisors Save You More Than Money
    • Why You Should Work with Me
    • How Do You Make Sure the Trip Has Something for Everyone?
    • DC Hotels with Indoor Pools
  • Itineraries
    • 5 Days in Costa Rica
    • {Winter} Staycation
  • Home
  • Indoor Fun
    • Theater & musical productions
    • Guide to Indoor Fun for Kids
  • Fall
    • Halloween guide
    • Fall festivals, farms, orchards
    • Fall Foliage Spots and Drives
    • Fall events
    • Fall classes
    • Fall bucket list
    • Survive Daylight Savings
  • Winter
    • Holiday gift guide
    • Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
    • Hanukkah Celebrations
    • Holiday Tea
    • Christmas Trees, Lights & Markets
    • Ski and snowboard
    • Cut-your-own tree
    • Ice rinks and roller rinks
  • Spring
    • Cherry blossoms
    • Easter egg hunts
    • Easter basket & spring gift ideas
    • Spring bucket list
    • Mother’s Day
    • Memorial Day weekend
    • Tax day steals and deals
  • Summer
    • Summer Camps
    • July 4th
    • Ice cream
    • Sunflower Fields
    • Summer bucket list
    • Live outdoor music
    • Outdoor movies
    • Outdoor swimming pools
    • Splash parks
    • Trains!
  • Camps and Classes
    • Fall classes
    • Spring classes
    • Summer camps
    • Mid-winter break camps
    • Winter camps and classes
    • November 2, 4, 5, 11
    • DCPS spring break camps
    • Schools out, camps are in
    • Year-round classes
    • Gymnastics and dance classes
  • Neighborhood Guides
    • Annapolis, MD
    • AU Park, DC
    • Baltimore, MD
    • Bethany Beach, DE
    • Breweries in the DC area
    • Brookland, DC
    • Chevy Chase, DC
    • Georgetown, DC
    • Philadelphia, PA
    • Lancaster County, PA
    • Madison, VA
    • Frederick, MD
    • St. Louis, MO
  • Outdoor Play
    • 15 family friendly hikes
    • Pick your own fruit and vegetables
    • Beaches and state parks
    • Outdoor fun
    • Trails, marshes and gardens
    • 20 classic outdoor games
    • Trains and carousels
  • Beltway Bambinos Concierge
    • Customized itineraries
    • Introducing Beltway Bambinos Concierge
  • About
  • Beltway Travel
    • Introducing Beltway Travel
    • Family Summer Getaways
    • Traveling with Little Ones?
    • Why Now is the Time to Plan
    • Travel Advisors Save You More Than Money
    • Why You Should Work with Me
    • How Do You Make Sure the Trip Has Something for Everyone?
    • DC Hotels with Indoor Pools
  • Itineraries
    • 5 Days in Costa Rica
    • {Winter} Staycation

Looking ahead…

October 31, 2017

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. 4, 2017 from 12:30pm-2:00pm:  Color’s Garden Interactive Performance at National Gallery of Art
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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Filed Under: Holiday Options, Indoor Play, Music, Outdoor Play Tagged: arts, Festivals, music, plan ahead, rsvp, upcoming

Mom Picks this Weekend

May 11, 2017

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

All Fired Up offers 10% off to all Moms Saturday & Sunday at both locations.

Friday-

3:00pm-7:00pm: Jo Malone London at City Center
(996 I St NW)
Customize a cologne or candle with a beautifully engraved message. RSVP to attend.

Saturday- 

8:00am-5:00pm: Mothers Day Weekend at Mount Vernon
(3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121)
Join the “Mother of our Country”, Martha Washington, for Mother’s Day weekend at Mount Vernon! Stroll through Mount Vernon’s magnificent gardens in bloom. Lady Washington will give lavender sachets to all mothers (while supplies last).

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

10:00am-12:00pm AND 1:00pm-3:00pm: Children’s Ball at The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum
(701 21st Street, NW)
Dress in your best for our Children’s Ball during a very special Mother’s Day weekend at the museum. Join us for fun and fancy treats, dancing beats, and a kid-centered visit to the exhibition Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair.  $10/museum members and GW students, faculty, and staff; $15/public (entrance for one adult and one child). Advance registration is required; space is limited. Register online or call 202-994-7394.

5:00pm-7:00pm: Adam’s Morgan Summer Concert
(Columbia Rd and 18th St NW)
Join us for the second show in Free Summer Concert Series! We’ll have hula hoops and bubbles for the kids as free wristbands good for discounts at businesses all over Adams Morgan. The Oxymorons take the stage with a mix of the hottest new songs, the best of the old, and their award-winning originals, giving audiences a night of hip-shaking New Orleans funk, soulful blues, Americana roots, and jam-band rock. This seriously-fun eight-piece band has been playing the DC area for more than 25 years, reeling off favorite party tunes spanning four decades and witty, well-crafted originals.

Sunday- 

8:00am-5:00pm: Mothers Day Weekend at Mount Vernon
(3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121)
Join the “Mother of our Country”, Martha Washington, for Mother’s Day weekend at Mount Vernon! Stroll through Mount Vernon’s magnificent gardens in bloom. Lady Washington will give lavender sachets to all mothers (while supplies last).

9:00am-12:00pm: La Bella Strada
(Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA)
Del Ray’s main street, Mount Vernon Ave. will come alive with vibrant chalk art. The second annual La Bella Strada Street Painting Festival, modeled after an ancient Italian art form, will bring artists from around the Northern Virginia/Washington D.C. region to create masterpieces up and down the sidewalk. Learn more about the event here.  The event raises money for The Del Ray Montessori School, a 501c3 profit, for an outdoor playspace.

9:30am-4:00pm: Mother’s Day Brunch at Pinstripes
(1064 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington DC 20007)
Make this Mother’s Day special by treating mom to an expansive bottomless brunch fit for a queen!  Indulge in favorites like made-to-order omelets, carved prime rib and fresh shrimp, bagels with spreads and smoked salmon, flatbreads, waffles ‘her-way’ topped with berries, bananas foster or Nutella, plus a chocolate fountain for dessert. Moms will be especially encouraged to sit back and relax with mimosas and bloody Mary’s as the kids are taken care of at the ‘Kids Corner’ station with pizzas, chicken fingers, Mac and cheese and more. Adults $36, includes bottomless mimosas |  Kids 6-12 $15  |  Kids 5 & Under: Free  | $4 Mimosas & $7 Bloody Marys available all day. Please call to make a brunch reservation: 202-625-6500 Or plan ahead to Father’s Day Brunch.

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

11:00am AND 2:00pm: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
See my review of the play here. Bring your mom to see Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp this Sunday and she will receive a chocolate rose!

th1:00pm-4:00pm: Celebrate Mothers Day at United States Botanic Garden
(Conservatory Garden Court)
Looking for a fun way to celebrate Mother’s Day? It is never too early to start planning your vegetable garden. Bring your mother to the USBG and help her design and plant her very own cook’s garden! Join Danielle Cook as she whips up two recipes and savor the bounty your garden will bring. Please note: This is a drop-in program and appropriate for all ages.

 

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Filed Under: Holiday Options, Weekend Picks Tagged: arts, bethesda, botanic garden, family, festival, Mothers Day, mount vernon, train, yoga, zoo

Weekend Picks March 3-5

March 3, 2017

The Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival 2017 brings the best of DC arts and artists to the stage and H Street with performances, experiences and happenings in theatre, dance, music, vocal, choral, opera, visual arts, video, film, writing, sculpture, photography, circus, spoken word, public art, community art, and art space activation and ends this weekend. Discover how art, culture and connection happen on H Street.

Friday

6:00pm-8:00pm: First Friday DuPont
March is coming in with a roar, and galleries, retailers, embassies, and historic houses will be for the First Friday art walk around Dupont Circle – a fun and social way to explore the arts.

Saturday

8:30am-9:30am: Capoeira for Kids Ages 3.5-7 at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Capoeira provides physical fitness for children, ages 4 and up. It is intended to be a no- to low-contact martial art that helps children with gross motor planning and gross motor skills. Children will also learn maculele (a dance done hitting sticks against your partner’s sticks), samba, capoeira instruments, and Portuguese through this fun, interactive class. Classes are $15 each or $120 for a series of ten classes.

9:30am AND 10:30am: Harambe with Baba Ras D at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Think of it as your little one’s first opportunity to express his or her voice (into a microphone), dance, play a drum or percussion instrument, shout, or sing-along to songs that build character, confidence and community.With more than 10 years of experience in youth development, education and conflict resolution, program instructor Baba Ras D’s “Harambe” is a morning jolt of inspiration for parents, caregivers and children. Recommended for ages 0 to 7 years.  $7 per child $3 per adult suggested donation.

9:30am AND 11:00am: Mister G at National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004)
Mister G’s interactive and high-energy concert will be sure to get you and your kids on your feet! He’ll be singing songs from all of his six award-winning albums for children, including three bilingual albums. Free tickets.

10:00am: Marsha and the Positrons at Avalon Theatre
(5612 Connecticut Ave NW)
Marsha and the Positrons is led by singer/songwriter Marsha Goodman-Wood with  skilled, smooth bassist Wardell Howell and guest drummer Devin Walker. Their concerts are fun, playful, and educational — and entertaining for adults as well as kids!  Tickets: $8.00 / $6.50 for Avalon members (Children under 2 are free)

Molly Shakespeare cropped

10:00am and 12:00pm (depending on age): Courtly Greetings & Country Meetings at Folger Shakespeare Theatre
(201 East Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC 20003)
Imagine yourself in the two worlds of As You Like It, the court of Duke Frederick and the Forest of Arden.Folger offers programs for all ages and encourages families to experience Shakespeare’s language together. 10:00am-11:00am: Recommended Ages 5-7 and 11:00am-12:00pm: Recommended Ages 8-14. Register to attend.

10:00am (Doors open at 9:15am): Dan Zanes “Song Gusto Hour” with Claudia Eliaza at Jammin Java
(227 Maple Ave E Vienna, VA 22180)
Grammy Award Winner Dan Zanes and special guest Claudia Eliaza will be playing Dan’s hits from Sesame Street, Playhouse Disney, and Nickelodeon! Songs you know and love: Catch that Train! Wonder Wheel! Jump Up! All Around The Kitchen! This is a show for family singing and dancing. All are welcome and encouraged to bring instruments! ***This Sensory Friendly show is designed to create an accepting and comfortable environment for all children and their families. Much care and thoughtful consideration go into planning in order to support those with special needs as they connect to the music. There is a manageable degree of stimuli in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. All who attend are encouraged to express themselves freely and openly.*** Tickets $15

10:00am: First Studio at The Kreeger Museum
(2401 Foxhall Road, NW Washington D.C. 20007)
Children are invited to use their imagination as they explore the paintings, sculpture, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each program includes a gallery tour, a story and a hands-on art-making experience. Adult companion required and art-making attire recommended. $10 register online. To get a glimpse into the program see my review here.

10:30am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20814)
You and your child are invited to a fun, interactive musical experience! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist explores a popular children’s book with your family through song and musical instruments, and you will receive a list of all the songs to practice at home. Featured story: Barnyard Dance. Activities in Saturday Song Circle are best for 1-3 year-olds but 4-5 year-old siblings and friends are also welcome to join in the fun.
Register online

Sunday

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11:00am-5:00pm: Nowruz: A Persian New Year Celebration at Sackler & Ripley Center
(1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024)
Ring in the Persian New Year at our ninth annual Nowruz celebration! With free attractions for all ages, this year’s festival is held in the Sackler and adjacent Ripley Center as the Freer undergoes renovation. Activities include: Haft sin table display, Storytelling by Xanthe Gresham (with ASL interpretation at 2 pm), Calligraphy, Hands-on art activities, Live music, Film screenings, Food and Featured exhibition Turquoise Mountain: Artists…

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20814)
We invite you and your child to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, movement, music, 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: Not a Box. Activities in Sunday Fun-Day are most appropriate to 3-5 year-olds but 1-2 year-old siblings and friends are also welcome! Register online.

1:00pm-4:00pm: Open Studio at New Community ArtSpace
(614 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Open Studio 1st Sundays is open to all ages.  We will have all kinds of supplies available for your art making. $5 fee + supply donation welcomed.

4:00pm-5:00pm: Family Yoga for all ages at Lighthouse Yoga Center
(4203 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20011)
Join us in the studio once a month for Family Style yoga. Designed with our tots/preschooler yogis in mind, this class welcomes younger and older sibling and one or more caregiver for an afternoon of family yoga fun. Together we will learn songs, games, and poses the encourage body awareness, increase attention span, nurture creativity, and generally support development across a range of ages and abilities … but mostly we’re in it for the fun. Caregivers are expected to fully participate in class, but no prior yoga experience is required for adults or children. Come play yoga with us! $20 for one adult and one child. $5 each additional adult (payable when you arrive). (Additional participants are free for members). Register online to reserve your spot. Registration for additional family members can be paid at the studio.

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: arts, french, music, new year, theatre, yoga

Anna Banana brings meaningful arts and crafts to Georgetown

September 21, 2016

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Anne Freeman, Owner of Anna Banana Art and Crafts opened her art studio for kids ages 2-8  in January of 2013.  Building on her Art History background, 20 years as an art dealer in D.C., teaching art privately and in preschools, Anna Banana Arts and Crafts is dedicated to teaching and encouraging the artistic process.  Children learn about The Masters such as Picasso, Matisse, van Gogh and Lichtenstein.  Art mediums such as painting, print making, sculpture and photography are presented in a child-friendly manner.  Children explore materials such as charcoal, graphite, pastels, watercolors, paint and markers to encourage creative art making.   Classes are for 2-8 year olds and Summer Camp for 4-8 year olds.

We were lucky enough to attend to a class in which the students were learning about Andy Warhol and creating a painting based on his work. Anne was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, engaging and just plain ole fun! The class began with kids free drawing and coloring, then followed the lesson and project. Once everyone finished at their own pace and cleaned their paintbrushes, Anne was eager to use her glow-in-the-dark paint she had just purchased hours earlier. Based on one little girls comment that she had a glow-in-the-dark rock at home, Anne excitedly found rocks and allowed them to paint their own on a whim. I love that she was so open to a last minute creation.

Classes fill up quickly, especially in the winter and summer camps. There are still spots available in the newest session (and she will prorate them), so check out the options and sign up today! Another perk: easy parking and for the older classes you can drop off at the doorstep! Anna Banana is also nominated for Red Tricycle’s Totally Awesome Award (in case you needed more convincing)!

Address: 3270 S Street, NW in Georgetown

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                                                                                                                            (Painting the rock with glow-in-the-dark paint)

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Filed Under: Sponsored Post Tagged: anna banana, artists, arts, crafts, Georgetown

Weekend Picks: Magic Tree House, MusiKids and Engineers for a day

February 27, 2015

Arts on the Horizon will be featuring Sunny and Licorice at Atlas Performing Arts Intersections Festival this weekend. Check here for the Family Schedule of Events.

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Friday & Saturday-

Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark, Kids! at Adventure Theatre featuring ATMTC Academy Students in Grades 2 – 5 Feb. 27 & 28
(7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812)
While exploring one afternoon, Jack and Annie discover a tree house full of books: Jack looks through a book about dinosaurs and wishes he could see a real one. Suddenly the wind begins to blow and the tree house starts to spin wildly. When it finally stops, Jack and Annie open their eyes to find they have been transported back to the time of the dinosaurs! Tickets are $5.

Saturday-

10:00am: MusiKids at Avalon Theatre
(5612 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC. 20015)
Come join musiKids in a brand new Adventure Day – “Down on the Bayou”! This interactive musical show will have children singing and moving to songs inspired by the colorful creatures from the bayous of Louisiana. Learn how to snap like an alligator or jump like a rabbit! musiKids Adventure Days encourage kids to sing and move along with each and every song. Recommended for children ages 18 months to 6 years old.

10:00am-4:30pm:Engineering Family Day at National Building Museum
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 2000)
Every February, the National Building Museum and the National Engineers Week Foundation invite you to debunk the myths of engineering and discover how professional engineers turn ideas into reality. Celebrate Engineers Week by participating in this free, hands-on, and fun-filled festival. Explore thermodynamics, electricity, aerodynamics, and more with engineers at more than 25 activity tables and demonstrations made especially for kids. Discover Engineering Family Day is a FREE, drop-in program. $5 donation suggested. Program and activities are most appropriate for children ages 6 to 12 with adult supervision. Registration is not required.

10:30am: Saturday Fun-Day at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814)
You and your child are invited to a fun, interactive musical experience! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist (playing a ukulele!) explores a popular children’s book with your family through song and musical instruments, and you will receive a list of all the songs to practice at home. Best for ages 1 month-3 years. Featured story: The Wheels on the Bus

11:00am and 1:00pm: Human Rights Campaign features “Dancin’ in the Kitchen” concert
(640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20036)
Join HRC for a special family concert featuring the Grammy winning duo, Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer and songs from their forthcoming CD, “Dancin’ in the Kitchen,” featuring songs that celebrate all kinds of families!  Each family will receive an advance copy of “Dancin’ in the Kitchen,” a chance to meet the musicians, and snacks during the show. Seating will be limited, so get your tickets early! Adult General Admission: $10 and Children General Admission: $5

Sunday-

th10:00am: Sunday Fun Day at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814)
We invite you and your child to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, movement, music, and visual art. Each session you leave with a completed craft, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Best for ages 1-3. Featured story: Where the Wild Things Are

2:00pm: The Wacky & Whimsical Tea for THEARC
(1150 22nd Street, NW Washington, DC 20037-The Ritz-Carlton of Washington)
Enjoy a fun-filled Sunday afternoon that will include high tea, a silent auction and creative games for kids of all ages and their families, including a treasure trove, special entertainment and other surprises.  All of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC).

 

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: arts, Avalon Theatre, building museum, concert, engineer, Imagination Stage, intersections, music, theatre

Weekend Picks: Then and Wow, Figment DC and Festivals

September 25, 2014

Pumpkin patches and apple orchards are among the must-do Fall activities. Here is your guide to a few!

FIGMENT DC, is this Saturday and Sunday in Anacostia Park. Megan Fowler gives great insight into the event– FIGMENT is a free, inclusive, participatory arts event held in multiple cities. FIGMENT’s mission is to offer free, family-friendly and participatory art to entire communities. The event blurs the lines between those who create and those who enjoy art — turning an urban park into a magical playground. Ever wanted to insert yourself into a live foosball table? Make a wish and watch it grow into a flower? Join your child in making matching tutus? All of these opportunities plus music, workshops, art, crafts, etc. will be at FIGMENT DC. It is also a unique opportunity to dress up, play, and bring your own imagination to life. Bring your costumes, tutus, hoops, kites, games, and readiness to be silly. And don’t forget your roller skates! The skating pavilion is a great place to show off your skills. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch & water. There will be very limited concessions sold at the event.

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Maryland Renaissance Festival  is still in town. Take a time machine back to medieval times. With plenty of entertainment, including music, joisting, puppetry, pony rides and so much more. Your children will see people dressed up in 16th century outfits. Dress like a knight and come any weekend through October 17.

[Read more…]

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: arts, Barracks Row, Family Fun, festival, figment dc, Glen Echo, music, Oktoberfest, outdoors, PIerce Mill, pumpkins, renaissance, Rock Creek Park, theatre

Your 2014 guide to summer camps around Washington, DC

February 5, 2014

2016 Summer Camp Guide is available!

2015 Summer Camp Guide is available!

Yes, it’s still freezing outside, but most summer camps are currently accepting registrations. And knowing this area, the best ones will be out of space before spring even hits. To get you prepared, we’ve put together a guide to give you the scoop on Washington, DC area camps for summer 2014. We’ve highlighted a few that are worth a look and included links to others at the bottom of the post.  As always, add to this post by commenting with your own suggestion– first or second hand. Here’s to a fun summer!

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Steve and Kates Camp
(Grace Episcopal School- 3601 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA 22305)
(Georgetown Day School- 4530 MacArthur Blvd, Washington, DC 20007)
If we could go to camp, this may be our first choice. Inflatable slip n slide, carnival on the last day and kid sized inflatable stadium for sports. This camp gives campers a choice where they step into a world packed with possibilities. One camper dives deep into stop-motion animation. Another discovers a passion for dance. Or chess. A camper becomes engrossed in making the perfect bread. Or developing Leo Messi-like touch on the soccer pitch. K thru 7th grade in the fall.

Levine Summer Music & Arts Day Camp at Katzen Arts Center at American University
(4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
 This year’s theme: “A Musical Road Trip – Hear America Sing”. From the mountains, to the prairies, to the oceans white with foam, your child will visit the major centers of music in America. Summer camp offers top-notch instruction within a fun and collaborative environment for campers aged 3.5 – 12. Now in it’s 27th year, Levine’s camp offers kids an incredible musical education during each of its two, three-week sessions. 

Lowell School Camp
(1640 Kalmia Rd NW., Washington, DC. 20012)
Their respectful and caring atmosphere encourages campers, ages 3 to 14, to grow in self-awareness and confidence, while strengthening their cooperation and consideration for others. They have an expansive campus with fields, surrounded by towering trees, provides generous space for games, sports, exercise, and water play. Campers explore and investigate plant and animal life in a spring-fed stream, a tributary of nearby Rock Creek. The four-lane indoor pool, fully equipped technology center, three art workshops, library, and large gymnasium are also available to campers.  [Read more…]

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Filed Under: Camp Tagged: arts, camp, DC, explore, language, music, outdoor, sports, spy, summer, swim, theatre, zoo

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