Beltway Bambinos

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

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

Jurassic World Live is taking over Fairfax this weekend. See Blue, T. rex and more of your favorite dinosaurs come to life at Jurassic World Live Tour! Your trip to Isla Nublar takes a terrifying turn after the Indominus rex escapes and causes chaos in the park! Join forces with a team of scientists to unravel a corrupt plan and save Jeanie, a Troodon dinosaur, from a terrible fate. Along the way, experience some of Jurassic World’s most iconic dinosaurs including Blue the Raptor, the mighty T. rex and more!

Inside Out & Backwards is for the youngest audience at Imagination Stage. It’s bedtime, and two children use their imaginations to turn their room inside out, into a wonderland of mess! While playing dress-up, a glove becomes a dancing fish, a shirt becomes a fantastical creature, and a sock dance rocks the closet! On stages through Sunday.

Cinderella A Salsa Fairy Tale is playing at Imagination Stage through April 7. What will happen to Cinderella at the ball … game? That’s the surprising question in this contemporary Latin-American Cinderella musical that weaves subtle lessons on empathy, sportsmanship, and respect into an exciting, high-stakes story. An Imagination Stage original that broke new ground in bilingual children’s theatre.

Junie B. Jones is wrapping up this weekend at Adventure Theatre. It is Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, does not want to be her best pal anymore and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring a tremendously loveable character and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your audience members’ hearts just as the books captivated an entire generation of students. 

Saturday
10:00am-12:00pm: Free the Trees with Little Falls Watershed Alliance
Volunteers will be removing non-native vines and shrubs which are killing our native trees.  There will be gloves and tools to borrow.  The entrance to the Capital Crescent Trail is via a path at the end of the cul-de-sac of Brookeway Drive. There is parking on the street.  Walk up the path to the first bench; we will meet there.

10:00am–1:00pm: Art Cart- Lines and Layers at Hirshhorn
Artists choose particular materials to tell their stories. Join us to explore the lines and layers (and layers upon layers) of Mark Bradford’s Pickett’s Charge (2017), and to tell your own stories with art. Found on the third level.

10:00am-4:30pm: Blossom Kite Festival
Join at the Washington Monument Grounds with activities, music, competitions, and performances. Kite enthusiasts, beginners, families, and friends are all welcome.  This year, the theme of the kite making competition is ‘Colors of the Wind’.

2:00pm-9:00pm: Bloomaroo at The Wharf
Bloomaroo at The Wharf is FREE to attend; no tickets are needed. Drinks are available for purchase at designated event bars and at all Wharf bars and restaurants. 
2pm-9pm — Listen to live music on multiple stages.
2pm-6pm — Activities throughout The Wharf include koi kite decorating, a haiku creation station, karaoke stage, face painting, live art demonstration, ikebana flower arranging, tea ceremony, Kikuyuki dancing, Nen Daiko drumming, Blossom Beauty Bar, Blossom Martini Beach Bar, and more!
~8:30pm — A stunning blossoms fireworks finale.

Sunday– Happy Easter for those who celebrate. Easter events can be found just below Monday’s events.

Monday–
Opening Day for the Washington Nationals
The Nationals return to Washington, D.C., for the team’s 20th season of baseball in our nation’s capital. First pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates is scheduled for 4:05pm, and gates open at 2:00pm

Easter Events:
Friday-Sunday: Easter Egg Hunt at Green Meadows Petting Farm
(10102 Fingerboard Rd. Ijamsville, MD 21754)
Hunts will be happening all day, between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.  In the past, we had hunts at set hours but now will have them all day!  We will have candy-filled eggs to hunt for.

Friday-Sunday : Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
(18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, VA 20135)
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire.  The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs  filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission. Also taking place April 1.

Friday-Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm: Eggstravaganza at Tudor Place
Join us for Eggstravaganza!, a favorite spring tradition. Children of all ages can take part in a lively Easter egg hunt and egg roll on the South Lawn. Afterwards, make crafts and take a picture with the Easter Bunny. The egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m. and the egg roll begins at 10:45 a.m.

Friday-Saturday from 9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
(22200 Davis Mill Road Germantown MD 20876)
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony. Also taking place April 1, 6, 7.

Friday-Sunday (Various times): Egg Hunt at Clark’s Elioak Farm
(10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042)
Children of different ages (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs all day (10 AM, 10:30, 11 AM, 11:30, 12 noon, 12:30, 1 PM, 1:30, 2 PM, 2:30, 3 PM, 3:30, 4 PM, 4:30 and 5 PM) on both both Saturday and Sunday March 23-24 and March 30-31. On weekdays (March 25-29) the hunts will be at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 2:30 and 3:30. Our $8 per person admission fee for the farm applies, but there is no extra charge for the egg hunt. The petting farm, rides and play areas are open for you to enjoy.

Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm: Spring Fest at McLean Community Center
Join your neighbors to celebrate the changing of seasons with self-guided arts and crafts, entertainment and the opportunity for your children to get a photo with Bunny. Bring your camera and smartphone for photos! An MCC staff member will be on hand to take a photo of you and your family.

Saturday from 11:00am-1:00pm: Easter Celebration at the Collective
There will be snacks and an Easter egg hunt. Red Panda Art Studio will provide a special Easter craft.

Saturday from 11:00am-3:00pm: Spring Eggstravaganza at The St. James
Join for an eggstraordinary good time filled with an Easter Egg Hunt, Springtime activities, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and more!

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

Hopefully you have been able to walk around and see the amazing cherry blossoms and other flowers blooming in our area! We have a post with details on where to view them and many places on the list are not on the National Mall.

Matchboxcon is taking over Montgomery County Fairgrounds this weekend. MatchboxCon is a public gathering of die-cast enthusiasts, a fun convention of collectors and buyers.

Friday
6:00pm-8:00pm: Family Flashlight Egg Hunt
Enjoy games and music before the egg hunt begins and don’t forget to bring your camera to take pictures with the bunny and friends.  The cost is $5 per family member, children under 12 months free.  Children under the age of 5 can arrive early for an egg hunt event at 6 p.m. and the flashlight egg hunt event will begin at 8 p.m.  All kids are encouraged to bring a basket to collect eggs, kids attending the 8 p.m. event should also bring a flashlight.

Saturday
9:00am-3:30pm: Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire.  The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs  filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission.

9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony.

10:00am-4:00pm: Family Day: Japanese Fashion
Celebrate cherry-blossom season at the museum with a family day featuring Japanese kimono, “happi” coats and crafts for all ages. Performances of traditional Okinawan dance will showcase the colorful costume of the islands, and guests can enjoy the beautiful melodies of Japan’s national instrument, the “koto.” Design your own kimono bookmark, make a cherry blossom pendant or join us for a family-friendly tour of the galleries, including Japanese textiles on display in Irresistible: The Global Patterns of Ikat. 

11:30am-3:00pm: Cherry Blossom Family Celebration
Celebrate the season of cherry blossoms with SAAM! Begin the day on the F Street Plaza (weather permitting) with a taiko drumming performance by drumming group Nen Daiko. Then head inside to the Kogod Courtyard for Japanese pop, boogie, and more with Les The DJ. Enjoy other performances while children (12 and under) make cherry-blossom themed crafts. Face painting is available for attendees ages 12 and younger. Treat yourself with tasty offerings for purchase from the Courtyard Café. Lastly, a spring-themed scavenger hunt takes you through the galleries for more cherry blossom fun.

1:00pm: Harlem Globetrotters
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters global tour as they take the court with moments of extreme basketball innovation and unparalleled fan FUN! See the Globetrotter stars LIVE as they DRIBBLE, SPIN, SLAM, and DUNK their way past their relentless rivals, the Washington Generals! You’ll be amazed by new levels of mind-blowing trick shots, expert ball-handling skills, and BIG LAUGHS with unrivaled opportunities for pre-game, post-game and in-game fan engagement!

7:30pm: Washington Spirit Homeopener
The Washington Spirit plays its first home match of the 2024 season this Saturday, March 23 at Audi Field against Bay FC. 

Sunday
9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony.

9:00am-3:30pm: Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire.  The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs  filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission.

10:00am-12:00pm: Eggstravaganza at Tudor Place
Join us for Eggstravaganza!, a favorite spring tradition. Children of all ages can take part in a lively Easter egg hunt and egg roll on the South Lawn. Afterwards, make crafts and take a picture with the Easter Bunny. The egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m. and the egg roll begins at 10:45 a.m.

11:00am-6:00pm: Sakura Sunday
The wait is over and the springtime celebration of the season is here! Come to National Harbor’s official participating event of the 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival, Sakura Sunday. Join for a wide array of free cultural activities including an artisanal Japanese marketplace, cultural performances, culinary delights, a Sakura Spirits Garden and more!

2:00pm-5:00pm: Purim Family Day
Join Washington Revels and the Seth Kibel Trio for an afternoon of Klezmer music, a Purim spiel (Purim comedy), costumes, and crafts. Make a grogger (noise maker) or a golden crown and celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim at this free, family-friendly event! And, while you are here, spend some time exploring the exhibitions. Crafts and activities start at 2pm. Performances start at 3pm.

3:45pm-5:30pm: Hill Family Biking – Books and Blossoms Ride
Hill Family Biking is teaming up with DC Public Library for a ride to the stunning, new SW Library for a special story time and a librarian-guided tour of the facility with Cherry Blossom peeping opportunities all along the route. They’ll start at Eastern Market Metro and weave down 3.7 miles of some of the most bikable streets in the District to SW Library. They’ll have a scheduled exit from SW Library for anyone that wants to ride back to Eastern Market as a group.

5:00pm-6:30pm: Opening Ceremony of Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s signature Opening Ceremony is an artistic celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, and an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the United States. This unique, one-time-only performance will feature special performances from acclaimed artists with ties to both countries.

NSO in your Neighborhood has tons of events this weekend. The National Symphony Orchestra will collaborate with various communities in Wards 6 & 8 to amplify joy, unity, and shared humanity through music and the arts. Partnering with local schools, museums, and organizations, we will honor the history of these neighborhoods, while also building new connections and relationships. Events are open to the public with first-come, first-served seating, unless otherwise noted. Below is the schedule:

Friday
BOOMBOX Boxing Club
7:00 p.m., 1221 Van St SE, Suite 140, Washington, DC 20003
This concert will take place in the boxing ring of this black-owned boutique Boxing Gym.

Saturday
Culture House DC
11:30 a.m., 700 Delaware Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Housed in a former African American church, this community arts space will host a concert centered around its cherry blossom exhibits.

National Museum of the US Navy
1:00 p.m., 736 Sicard St SE, Washington, DC 20374
Established in 1961, this museum displays and preserves significant artifacts that tell the story of US naval history. The Navy Yard itself was one of the first places to employ African Americans in the city.

The Anthem
Full Orchestra Concert
7:00 p.m., 901 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
FREE full orchestra concert at this Southwest Waterfront music arena featuring local DC artists.

Sunday
Rubell Museum
11:30 a.m., 65 I St SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Rubell Museum contains an extensive collection of American and international contemporary art. The building that now houses the museum was formerly Randall Junior High School, which closed in 1978 and was a historically Black public school attended by Marvin Gaye.

Covenant Baptist UCC Church
3:00 p.m., 3845 S Capitol St SW, Washington, DC 20032
This African American congregation in Bellevue has survived racial discrimination, changing city demographics, and now gentrification. The concert will take place on Palm Sunday.

Bald Eagle Recreation Center
Full Orchestra Concert
7:00 p.m. 100 Joliet St, Washington, DC 20032
This free performance will feature ­­­­­­­­mezzo-soprano, Marquita Raley-Cooper, DC artist and native.

Plan Ahead
Peter Pan at the National Theatre: April 9-21
Bourbon & Bluegrass at President Lincoln’s Cottage: May 18-19

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

We’ve got a great list of 16+ ways to spend Spring Break. If you are staying local and need some ideas check out this post.

All weekend
Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival

The Dr. Seuss Experience

RiverRun Festival

Washington Nationals

Friday
4:30pm-8:00pm: Geoff the Magician at The Lane
What better way to spend a Friday night then having the kiddos watch a great magician and get tired on the bounce house, while you enjoy one of the last nice weekends before winter with an adult beverage.

Saturday
10:00am-12:00pm: Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
The Nation’s Springtime Parade is returning to Constitution Avenue. Grand colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers burst down the Parade route in a spectacle of music and showmanship celebrating spring in Washington, DC.

10:00am-2:00pm: Soar Together at Air and Space On Site Family Day: All About Rockets
How do rockets work? What are they used for? Why are they designed the way they are? Get the answer to all of these questions as we explore rockets and the important role they play in spaceflight and exploration. Join a hands-on day of fun for all ages during this Family Day at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

10:00am-3:00pm: Horse Expo at Frying Pan Farm Park
Come to the first-ever horse expo at Frying Pan Farm Park! This event is for experienced riders as well as people who are new to the world of horses. There will be food trucks, speakers, demonstrations, and businesses that sell horse-related products and services.

11:00am-2:00pm: Herring Heroes Obstacle Course at Pierce Mill
The herring are back, and so is this fun family event! Each spring, these mighty fish travel upstream from the Chesapeake Bay to Rock Creek, where they lay their eggs. Come learn about the spring herring migration, and see if you’re as strong as a fish! Can you swim up imaginary rapids and find your way on a Rock Creek balance beam? Go up the fish ladder, and carry an egg on a spoon? After you’ve completed the obstacle course, look for herring swimming past Peirce Mill! This outdoor event is FREE, no registration required. Rain date: April 16

1:00pm-3:00pm: Georgetown Scavenger Hunt
Explore some of Georgetown’s most cherished wonders and overlooked gems by solving clever clues during a fun scavenger hunt adventure!

2:00pm-9:00pm: Celebrate 2023 DC Emancipation Day
Join Mayor Bowser for a celebration of DC Emancipation Day with a parade, a DC Statehood Foodtruck-palooza, a concert, and fireworks!

Sunday
9:30am-11:00am: Earth-day inspired workshop at Red Panda Art Studio
Join for a special weekend workshop designed specifically for ages 18 months to 5! Class includes sensory stations, a group story, and a guided project inspired by our wonderful Planet, Earth! There will be a focus on using natural and recyclable materials. Please feel free to bring along any extra bottle caps or paper towel roll tubes you may have around. Drop-off optional for ages 3.5+. Caregivers welcome to stay!

11:30am-1:30pm: Open studio at Red Panda Art Studio
Join for an open studio experience! There will be a few selected inspiration idea stations set-up and you can use your imagination to fill in the rest! Workshop is designed for ages 5+. Drop-off recommended. Workshop includes a pizza lunch.

Plan ahead:
Aladdin Family Night at The National : April 26 only
Your wish is granted with special activities including Aladdin’s Wall of Wishes and coloring take home fun packs. The theatre will be opening one hour earlier than other performances for special activities exclusive to April 26 beginning at 5:30.

 
 

Where to view cherry blossoms in and around Washington, DC with families

Rediscover Spring throughout Washington, DC and be a part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 18 – April 16, for four weeks of celebration filled with food, fun, and culture! Stay at partner hotels, dine at Cherry Picks restaurants, and check out Petal Porches and Art in Bloom installations across the city and surrounding areas.

A few tips to remember when you visit the National Mall:

  • Don’t drive! If you do, be sure to find parking before heading down on a parking app such as Spot Hero. The closest Metro is the Smithsonian.
  • Weekends are the busiest. If you can go after school during the week do it or go at sunrise.
  • Public restrooms can be found at the Martin Luther King Memorial as well as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and at the Washington National Monument.

If you want to avoid the crowds at the National Mall but still go to that area, a few fun options include DC Blossoms Bike Tour, Big Bus Tour & Boomerang Boat Tour.

Places to view cherry blossoms that are not on the National Mall:

  • The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
  • Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
  • US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
  • Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
  • Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
  • The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
  • Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
  • Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
  • Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
  • Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
  • Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.

Where to view cherry blossoms in and around Washington, DC with families

As of now these are the current 2022 cherry blossom peak predictions-

  • National Park Service: March 22-25
  • Washington Post: March 22-26

You can find the most recent updates here.

Rediscover Spring throughout Washington, DC and be a part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival March 20 – April 17, for four weeks of celebration filled with food, fun, and culture! Stay at partner hotels, dine at Cherry Picks restaurants, and check out Petal Porches and Art in Bloom installations across the city and surrounding areas.

A few tips to remember when you visit the National Mall:

  • Don’t drive! If you do, be sure to find parking before heading down on a parking app such as Spot Hero. The closest Metro is the Smithsonian.
  • Weekends are the busiest. If you can go after school during the week do it or go at sunrise.
  • Public restrooms can be found at the Martin Luther King Memorial as well as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and at the Washington National Monument.

If you want to avoid the crowds at the National Mall but still go to that area, a few fun options include DC Blossoms Bike Tour, Big Bus Tour & Boomerang Boat Tour.

Places to view cherry blossoms that are not on the National Mall:

  • The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
  • Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
  • US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
  • Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
  • Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
  • The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
  • Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
  • Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
  • Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
  • Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
  • Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.

Best places to view cherry blossoms that are NOT on the National Mall

As in true pandemic fashion we try to continue to provide you with content that is responsible and thus avoiding crowds. We thought a post on where to view cherry blossoms without the crowds the Tidal Basin draws, may be useful. Yesterday, while driving through DC, the crowds were in full force on the Mall as the blossoms were in full bloom! The National Cherry Blossom Festival will be held from March 20 – April 11 and again has pivoted from their typical celebrations and gotten creative so check out their programs.

  • The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
  • Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
  • US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
  • Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
  • Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
  • The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
  • Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
  • Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
  • Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
  • Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
  • Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.

Best places to view cherry blossoms that are NOT on the National Mall

Clearly a lot of families are looking to get outdoors because this post was very well received. We thought a post on where to view cherry blossoms without the crowds the Tidal Basin has may be useful. Cherry Blossom Watch is on and as of now the peak time will be March 20-24, 2020! However, if you are hoping to make it to the Cherry Blossom Festival be sure to visit the link for updated information before heading downtown as some events have been cancelled.

  • The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
  • Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
  • US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
  • Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
  • Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
  • The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
  • Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
  • Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
  • Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
  • Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
  • Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.

Weekend Picks March 24-26

With the gorgeous weather headed here on Saturday, I’m guessing the Mall will be packed with those trying to get a look at cherry blossoms. Here is the event page and the opening ceremony is on Saturday from 11:30am-3:00pm which is child-friendly with performances, face painting, and cherry-blossom themed crafts. For those who don’t wish to be in a large crowd head to Kenwood in Bethesda, Maryland and walk the streets at your leisure.

(Photo: The National cherry blossom festival parade that ends the festival’s celebrations)

Weekend Easter Egg Hunts  & Activities begin this weekend at Ticonderoga! Admission Ages 2 & Up $14.95 per. Hunts will take place promptly at 11:00am and 2:00pm on Saturdays and Sundays, during Spring Festival dates. Meet and Greet with the Easter Bunny and find the Golden Goose Egg for an extra special prize! There are many other activities included with your admission to enjoy, including: giant slide hills, huge jumping pillows, hayrides, animal feeding areas, pedal kart track, swinging bridge, and much more! There will be 3 different age groups in separate areas for each Egg Hunt: Ages 0-3, 4-6, and 7+. Food vendors will be on-site for Full Plate items, tasty treats and snacks from 11 am-4 pm. Entrance gate will close at 4:00 PM daily.

Saturday-

9:00am-3:00pm: K-12 STEM Symposium at The Nysmith School
(13625 EDS Dr. Herndon, Virginia 20171)
The K-12 STEM Symposium is a free and exciting all-day forum that equally engages children, parents, and teachers, coupled with corporate, government, academia and non-profit executives alike from the STEM fields. Kids can get first-hand experience with drones, coding, 3D printing, space and more!!

9:30am AND 11:00am: Bilbo’s Journey at National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20004)
Everyone loves the cherished tale of a home loving little Hobbit who finds himself on an adventure he could never have imagined! On his perilous trip he meets elves, trolls, a wizard, a dragon…and ssssomething ssstrange called a Gollum. Travel with this brave little Hobbit through dangerous and wondrous terrain, and then, happily, back home again. Tickets are free.

10:00am-3:00pm: Japanese Culture Day at Young Readers Center
(Thomas Jefferson Building, Room # LJ-G29 (Ground Floor) Library of Congress 10 First Street, SE, Washington, DC 20540)
The (FREE) Japanese Culture Day introduces children and adults to Japanese culture through hands-on origami artwork creation, trying on kimonos and other activities. Cherry Blossom princesses from the last few years will instruct children in the art of tiara-making. At 11:00am and 1:30pm, the Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C., will present “Japan-In-A-Suitcase,” a program about Japanese life and culture. Following each of these presentations, Tsuyoshi Takemori of DC Yamato-juku Karate Club will demonstrate karate. Additional attractions for children are being planned. Children may also explore the Library’s Young Readers Center, which contains current and classic children’s literature.

10:00am: Cántale a Tu Bebé (Sing To Your Baby) Concert at The Mansion at Strathmore
(10701 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD. 20852)
A bilingual music party celebrating the release of Cántale a Tu Bebé, the Spanish-language version of the award-winning book/CD Sing To Your Baby by Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer. Sonia De Los Santos (solo musician and Dan Zanes Band) and Jorge Anaya (DC-area Latino vocalist) join Cathy & Marcy for this intimate event! Learn how to use music for fun, skill development and as an ongoing expression of love in both Spanish and English. It’s never too early (or too late!) to sing with family.

10:00am-3:00pm: Kites of Asia at National Air and Space Museum
(Independence at 6th St)
Celebrate Spring at the National Air and Space Museum’s Kites of Asia Heritage Family Day which is FREE!  Talk to kite experts, see pan-Asian kite displays, marvel at indoor kite flying, make your own kite— and maybe even take a dance lesson!

11:30am: The Eagle Huntress film at National Gallery of Art
(6th & Constitution)
Among the isolated Kazakh tribe in the mountains of northwest Mongolia, the long tradition of eagle hunting has only been practiced by men. This documentary follows Aisholpan, a 13-year-old girl, as she trains to become the first female in 12 generations of her family to become an eagle hunter. Her decision causes controversy amongst older members of the community, but Aisholpan boldly embarks on a strict program of training. This inspiring film captures her courage. (Otto Bell, US, 2016, 87 minutes) English narration, and Kazakh with English subtitles. Recommended for ages 11 and up. Shown in collaboration with the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital.

3:00pm: The Lessons of Seneca at GALA Hispanic Theatre
(3333 14th Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20010)
In this lively bilingual musical, Séneca, a bookish library mouse, sets out on some adventures with a trio of street-wise barrio mice, a cunning cat, and a good-natured dog. On their outing, these unlikely companions learn valuable lessons about friendship, respect, tolerance and the value of books. The duration of this family show is approximately 55 minutes and is appropriate for ages 4 through 10.

Sunday-

10:30am-12:00pm: Make Room for Matzah at Edlavitch DCJCC
(1529 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036)
Join for a hands-on Passover workshop to get ready for Passover and learn more about this tradition for your interfaith or Jewish family. Your child will make a beautiful Miriam’s Cup to enhance your seder and do a mitzvah for seniors celebrating Passover. Then we will have a Seder Plate Taste Test, as we delve into why we have the things on the Seder plate that we do. Best for ages 3 and up. $15/family and can be paid at the door.

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. Activities in Sunday Fun-Day are most appropriate to 3-5 year-olds but 1-2 year-old siblings and friends are also welcome! Featured story: Cock a Doodle Doo, Barnyard Hullabaloo

1:00pm-2:15pm: Missing Glove Monster Crafternoon at Little Loft
(7007 Carroll Ave Takoma Park, MD 20912)
Bring in those random mittens or gloves (knit ones work best) and turn them into cuddly pocket-sized stuffed animals! (We’ll have some extras on hand if you’ve lost BOTH by now 😉 $28, ages 6-1

 

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