festival Archives - Beltway Bambinos

Weekend picks in and around Washington, DC

February 21, 2020

This weekend kicks off Atlas Performing Arts INTERSECTIONS Festival. The Festival showcases performances in music, theatre, dance, film, spoken word and performance art that offer new ways to see ourselves and to celebrate our community and our world. The festival begins February 19-March 1. There are many family events (too many to choose for our picks), so please check out the schedule.

National Symphony Orchestra Music for Young Audiences presents a Mozart Mash-Up. Share the magic and music of Mozart in a special family concert when members of the National Symphony Orchestra play favorites from the prolific composer. Best for ages 7+.

It is the inaugural Washington Justice weekend at the Anthem! They play on both Saturday & Sunday. You can expect a packed arena full of dedicated fans, performances by local favorites including DJ Kool and more.

Friday

5:30pm-8:00pm: Nerf Night at Badlands
Kids ages 7+ are invited to join for Nerf Night by Badlands! Come enjoy a fun new theme each Nerf Night.

Saturday

9:00am-4:00pm: George Washington’s 288th Birthday at Mount Vernon
Celebrate with General Washington in honor of his 288th birthday! Admission is free and no advanced tickets are required.

9:15am: Building Better People Productions: Friendlier Fables
This show is part of the INTERSECTIONS Festival. Here are some of your favorite kid stories, told with kinder twists. Cheer on friends like our not-so-ugly duckling and a boy who cries wolf for reasons you might not expect, as they learn to respect themselves and others in a funny, touching, engaging show for all ages! Best for ages 0-8.

9:30am AND 10:30am: Harambe at Bloombars
Ten years and more than 1,600 shows later, Harambe at BloomBars has become a Washington DC institution and a cultural/moral compass for thousands of parents and youth. In Swahili, Harambe means “All pull together.” At BloomBars, Harambe is the practice of hope, possibility and compassion – basically, all the things that happen when we all come together. 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.

10:00am: Saturday Morning Tunes “Frozen” live in concert at Miracle Theater
All your favorite “Frozen” songs, performed live by classically trained opera singers, with a few inside jokes for us parents too. Kids can meet and greet the princesses afterwards. Doors open at 9:30am.

10:00am: Imagination Stage: Down by the Station
Take an imaginary train adventure in this interactive musical experience with Imagination Stage at Avalon Theatre! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist accompanied by a live percussionist guides you through a musical exploration of the classic children’s tale.

1:00pm-2:30pm: Mr. Jon & Friends Concert
Mr. Jon performs energetic music for the entire family that is all about fun, dancing, and laughter! He has won a Parents’ Choice Award for his music and attracted loyal audiences across the D.C. area. The concert is free with a $10 suggested donation for adults and $5 for kids. No tickets or reservations are required.

4:00pm-7:00pm: Mardi Gras at the Wharf
New Orleans is coming to DC! Celebrate Mardi Gras with a free community-wide extravaganza featuring a lively parade down Wharf Street, a dance party with live music on District Pier, and a special fireworks finale.

6:00pm-9:00pm: Dynamite 2 Gym Parents Night Out
Drop off the kids for an evening of free play, fun, friends, and a movie, too! One hour of open gym followed by popcorn and a movie in the gym.

Sunday

10:00am-12:00pm and 12:00pm-2:30pm: Family Gras at Capitol Cider House
Join the 2nd annual Family Gras, a family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration!!!! Kids will enjoy complimentary face painting, balloon animals, festive crafts and beads (gently) thrown from a cider house float.

11:00am-12:00pm: CUENTA-CUENTOS: STORYTIME at Hirshhorn
Your voice is powerful! Join for a close look at artworks on view in Manifesto: Art x Agency and a reading of Mi Voz by Jose Fragoso. Stay to create an artwork that amplifies your own voice! CUENTA-CUENTOS: STORYTIME in Spanish explores contemporary art through stories and movement. Each week STORYTIME features a fresh and fun theme. Bring your littlest art lover for an introduction to an artist on view, interactive read aloud, and a hands-on activity.

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
You and your child will 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. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books.

Weekend Theatre:
The Snowy Day and Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats at Adventure Theatre through April 5
Zomo the Rabbit: A Hip-Hop Creation Myth at Imagination Stage through March 22
Thumbelina at Imagination Stage through April 5
Hear Me Say My Name at Discovery Theater
Beauty & The Beast at The Puppet Co through March 29
Baby Bear’s Birthday at The Puppet Co Tiny Tots

ARTECHOUSE: Future Sketches
Imagine different possible futures – for the intersection of computation and design, for the interaction between humans and computers, and for an expressive augmented reality. Future Sketches is a collaboration with one of the most dynamic pioneers in the field of coding and interactive media. Zach Lieberman creates digital poetry through code, technology and theory. He writes his own software to create his artwork, and is a co-creator of openFrameworks, an open source C++ toolkit for creative coding.

Taste the Philippines: D.C. Filipino Food Festival

June 22, 2019

Join a fun, family-friendly foodie fest on District Pier for Taste the Philippines: D.C. Filipino Food Festival. Sample delectable Filipino cuisine from celebrated chefs including:

Cathal Armstrong, Paolo Dungca, Josh Jarvis -Kaliwa
Steve Chu – Ekiben
Javier Fernandez – Kuya Ja’s
Jojo Valenzuela- The Game
Timothy Flores – former chef de cuisine – Oriole
Katsuya Fukushima – Daikaya
Nathan Beauchamp – Tiger Fork

The bar will feature specialty cocktails and beer for the adults.

Enjoy Filipino cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, music, giveaways, prizes, and activities for kids. Admission is FREE, tasting tickets are $4.50 per ticket in advance, $5.50 day of the event. Get advance tickets here.

Saturday, June 22, 2019
(Rain or Shine)
2:00pm – 6:00pm

District Pier at The Wharf
101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024

Weekend Picks for Families in and around Washington, DC

November 2, 2018

It is the final weekend for this year’s Kids Euro Festival which is one of the largest performing arts festivals for children in America, bringing Europe’s most talented children’s entertainers to the DC metro area each fall for two weeks of free performances, concerts, workshops, movies, storytelling, puppetry, dance, magic, and cinema.

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

Friday

Union Market Drive-In: Hocus Pocus
After three centuries, three witch sisters are resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts on Halloween night, and it is up to two teenagers, a young girl, and an immortal cat to put an end to their reign of terror once and for all. 1 h 36 min, rated PG
Lot opens 5:30, Lot closes promptly at 7:45, Film begins 8:00, Film ends at 9:50

Saturday

9:00am-12:00pm: Kids Workshop at Home Depot
Celebrate and honor all who have served our country in our hands-on Veteran’s Day focused workshop. You and your child can build a custom model military helicopter to spark a conversation with a Veteran about fighting large fires, moving troops, getting supplies to ships and transporting patients. Once the “helo” build is complete, your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. 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-5:30pm: Smithsonian Food History Festival
The Food History Festival is a free day of hands-on learning, live demonstrations, talks, and stories exploring the past, present, and future of regional food cultures in America. Talented chefs, local organizations, experts, museum curators, students, and more will be on hand to spark conversation, lead activities, and dig into food history with museum visitors of all ages. All activities are free.

10:00am-12:00pm: The Forest Hills Playground’s annual Halloween Spooktacular
Come see our favorite magician, Abracadabra Alex, who also excels at balloon-making! There will also be a bake sale, face painting, spooky music, and the annual costume parade. This is Friends of Forest Hills Playground’s biggest fundraiser of the
year. 100% of bake sale proceeds and donations support playground improvements and programming like the popular summer concert series. Costumes encouraged for kids and grown-ups (but not required)!

10:00am: Native American Stories Family Day at National Archives
As NASA celebrates its 60th anniversary, this new documentary from Discovery presents a moving portrait of the agency’s many accomplishments in space: taking us to the Moon, to the surface of Mars, to the outer edge of our solar system, and beyond. Above and Beyondalso sheds light on the vital role NASA has played in measuring the health of our planet. Directed, produced, and narrated by Academy Award–nominated and Emmy-winning Rory Kennedy (Last Days of Vietnam). Save the Date: Story Time in the ReSource Room for Pre-Schoolers and Adults on Tuesday, November 20, at 10:00am.

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.

10:00am-12:00pm: Michael’s Kids Club
They craft, you shop! Kids 3 and up can enjoy making a Christmas tree. Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event.

10:30am-12:30pm: Creativity Workshop at The Phillips Collection
Let your creativity fly in our art-making stations—it’s an art materials “petting zoo” for the whole family! Comes with Artful Wellness Kit for parents and caregivers. Geared for families with children ages 2 to 8.

10:30am-11:15am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
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. Ages 1-5. Featured story: The Pout-Pout Fish

Sunday

9:30am: Fit4Mom is partnering with FRESHFARM farmer’s market
Join Stroller Strides on Sunday November 4 and November 11 at the TD Bank Dupont Circle. Bring the whole family for a workout and then shop the market goodies after class! The market is held on 20th St NW, right next to the class, and features fresh produce, smoothies, and ready-to-eat foods from local vendors! Bonus: The first class is always free.

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
Your child’s favorite stories will come 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. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Featured story: Mouse Paint

12:00pm-2:00pm: Pumpkin Hill at Nalls Produce
SPIRIT: RIDING FREE and TROLLS: THE BEAT GOES ON! will both be onsite to promote their new seasons streaming on Netflix. There will be free face painting, complimentary cotton candy, and fun SPIRIT and TROLLS promotional items, such as bubbles, bouncy balls, chap stick, hair ties, luggage tags, pencils, bookmarks, stickers, tattoos, and more, all while supplies last. Pumpkin Hill is a FREE fall playground event.

Have you entered to win a spot at Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) weekend workshop?

Related Links:
Holiday Tea for Families

Yoga with Bambinos

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

August 31, 2018

Have a family-friendly Labor Day by checking out this post we created for you.

Anacostia Park Centennial Celebration is Friday and Saturday. Help kickstart the next 100 years with incredible experiences in the park. The centennial birthday bash will become a part of park history, don’t miss your chance to be a part of it. Enjoy family fun activities in the park including painting murals, live raptors, catch and release fishing lessons with a competition for biggest fish caught, photobooth stations, arts and crafts, bike repair pop up shop, photo exhibits, roller skating performances and much more! Reminisce on Summer in the Parks during its 50th anniversary with an evening concert on Friday, on the lawn featuring Go Go stars and headliner Chuck Brown Band. Enjoy music from opening acts Trouble Funk and Reminisce All Stars as the night is hosted by DJ EZ Street.

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.

Friday

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

9:00am-7:30pm: 18th Library of Congress National Book Festival at the Washington Convention Center
All presentations and public activities at the festival are free and do not require tickets. Author talks, book signings, characters and so much more. Spread the love of reading to your child.

10:00am-2:00pm: Zoo Bop at the Maryland Zoo
Kids, get your dancing shoes on and singing voice ready! Zoo Bop is a children’s outdoor music festival at the Zoo. 1,2,3, Andres will make an appearance at 1:00pm! Families will enjoy two live performances from kid-approved rockstars! Plus, bop around to kids vendors, food trucks, and fun activity tables. You won’t want to forget to explore the Zoo, too.

10:00am-12:00pm: Shake up your Saturday at Folger Shakespeare Library: Thunder, Lightning or in Rain
Explore the sun and storms of Shakespeare’s worlds. Shake Up Your Saturdays is a free program that takes place on the first Saturday of every month. Family members of all ages are welcome to join the fun! 10:00am-11:00am: Recommended Ages 4-7 & 11:00-12:00pm: Recommended Ages 7-11. Register here.

An exciting program we’ve been to a few times that occurs each Saturday is at Glen Echo: Saturday Art Explorers. This Saturday it will be from 10:00am-1:00pm. 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.

Don’t miss:
The National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party Series, Fun House which closes September 3

Splashing around

More activities for the weekend can be found here. a

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Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

August 24, 2018

August 23-26 Comcast Outdoor Film Festival returns to Strathmore this summer! Join us on the lawn for FOUR nights of free family favorite flicks benefiting the NIH Children’s Charities. August 24: Black Panther, August 25: The Lion King, August 26: Wonder Woman. Concessions begin at 7:30pm. Movie will begin at dusk (approximately 8:30pm). Event is FREE!

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: Parents Night Out at My Gym Bethesda:Mr. Nick’s Birthday Celebration
Drop your kids off for three hours of nonstop action at My Gym including fitness games, active play, pizza and fun! Kids have their own party here at My Gym while grown-ups enjoy 3 hours to themselves. My Gym is the best babysitting around! Space is limited-Reserve your spot here! Reservations required. Potty independent please. $40 Members, $45 Non-members, Sibling Discount

6:00pm-9:00pm: Parents Night Out at Busy Bees Falls Church
So you want to have some uninterrupted conversations over dinner, or go to the movies, or just bee, but don’t have a sitter? Now you have our A-Team! We are not a sit down and watch a video kinda place! Rest assured: Your little one will be Active and walk away feeling Funtastic after moving, spinning, running and jumping with our A-Team! Pssst… a solid night sleep? Yes please! Reservations are required and spots are limited! $35 first child and $30 siblings. Pizza meals will be provided for the kids. Consider bringing them in their PJs, and they’ll be ready for bed when you come and get them!

Saturday

11:30am-3:00pm: Summer in the City Family Day at Smithsonian American Art Museum
Escape the heat and still play in the sun! Come and enjoy all your favorite summertime games, a museum scavenger hunt, and crafts. If you are looking for something more low-key, put on a lei and listen to relaxing island music. Enjoy refreshing summer treats from the Courtyard Café.

12:00pm-6:00pm: 17th Street Festival
The festival includes a wide variety of street vendors, including artists, makers, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, kids’ activities and entertainment – rain or shine. The festival will include more than 60 artists and makers selling everything from oil paintings to pottery, jewelry to cigars, and every creative item in between. Other vendors include area nonprofit organizations, local entrepreneurs, and the Kids Zone will have an inflatable slide and vendors. Unique to the 17th Street Festival will be an all day “traveling” entertainment on the street, including a funk band, flamenco dancers with guitar, mariachi band, a Chinese lion dancer, and a New Orleans jazz band. Taking place in the 1500-1600 blocks of 17th Street, NW.

12:00pm-6:00pm: Community Day at Arena Stage
Celebrate Arena’s 2018/19 season with a great day full of activities including live music, face painting, dance performances, storytelling, delicious cuisine from Southwest restaurants and much, much more! Enjoy a pony ride with Ponies Unlimited. Meet, adopt and go home with your new best friend! The Humane Rescue Alliance’s mobile adoption vehicle will be onsite with adoptable cats and dogs. This event is completely FREE to the public and great for all ages!

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

6:00pm: KIDZ BOP Live at Wolf Trap
KIDZ BOP Live 2018 is the ultimate family concert experience, “sung by kids for kids.” The KIDZ BOP Kids headline this new show, performing some of today’s biggest hit songs that have also kept them at the top of the US Kids charts for over 15 years.

Sunday

10:00am-11:00am: Nous Bloombars
The Alliance Francaise is very proud to continue its partnership with BloomBars, bringing back a weekly music program for children. Nous Bloomons is a celebration of French language and culture through song and dance, led by Achille Ango. Achille grew up in Cameroon (Central West Africa). After graduating from High School, he went to France where he lived for seven years studying and playing music. He has taught French to children, and played music with various bands in the Washington area for more than 20 years. He now teaches French in an immersion school using music as a vehicle. If you want to have fun, dance, jump and sing “à tue-tête”, join us at BloomBars! $7 suggested donation per child. $3 per adult.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor
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! Movie: Annie 2014

Ongoing activities:
Fun House at National Building Museum
Wings of Fancy at Brookside Gardens
Tinkerbell at Adventure Theatre

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

June 15, 2018

Take a break from watching the World Cup and get out this weekend.

Washington, DC Boat Festival is happening Saturday & Sunday which is a family favorite. The Boat Festival, now celebrating it’s 17th year, is a two day festival held along the Potomac River complete with cultural exhibitions, craft demonstrations, and of course… dragon boat racing. The event is sponsored by the Taiwan-U.S. Cultural Association (TUSCA) and serves to promote Taiwanese culture to the Washington DC area through the sport of dragon boat racing.

Saturday & Sunday from 9:00am-10:30am you can register for the 2-3 year old class: Lion Lessons Class at the Zoo. Do they have what it takes to be part of the pride? Learn what it’s like to be a lion and test your skills with us and our wild role models! “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. $28/child for FONZ members. $35/child for non-members. Registration fee covers one child with adult.

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.

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

10:00am-3:00pm: Innovations in Flight Family Day and Outdoor Aviation Display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Explore the engineering and design innovations that have taken place during the last century of flight. Talk with pilots of over 50 vintage and modern aircraft, on display outside the Museum for one day only. Discover the science behind flight through hands-on, STEM-based activities. Free but parking is $15.

10:30am: Ribbon cutting ceremony at Cleveland Park Library
The new Cleveland Park Library at 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW, will open on Saturday!! Join Mayor Bowser, Councilmember Mary Cheh, Councilmember David Grosso and DC Public Library Executive Director Richard Reyes-Gavilan for a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. followed by a day of family friendly festivities. The new library offers welcoming spaces for children, teens and adults.

11:00am-6:00pm: Columbia Heights Day Festival
The best local DC street party is back and you’re invited!! Join us in celebration of diversity and community with the neighborhood’s finest food, drink, and entertainment. Discover artisans, entrepreneurs, and area businesses in the heart of Columbia Heights. The fun is everywhere and for everyone! We have three stages of live music, dance, and free fitness classes. Kids can play at the carnival on the Harriet Tubman field while adults make their own fun at the Meridian Pint beer garden. 11th Street between Park Road and Irving Street. FREE (Donations welcome!)

2:00pm: Now & Then: Takoma Park Folk Festival 40th Year Celebration
“Now & Then” celebrates the 40th anniversary of the renowned Takoma Park Folk Festival, including its music, mission, and history. Several festival musicians will perform at the event, and festival organizers will present a multi-media program about one of Takoma Park’s most cherished cultural institutions.

6:00pm: Cinema Del Ray: The Lego Batman Movie
The fun begins at 7:00pm. Free open air movie showings sponsored by Jen Walker. Snacks are even available for purchase, bring blankets and cozy up. (No 4 legged friends)

Sunday

5:30pm: Kids Pajama Jam Party at AMP
Grammy-winning funk and hip-hop artist Secret Agent 23 Skidoo brings the excitement and energy of hip-hop to children’s music in this special Father’s Day performance. With sophisticated instrumental funk and witty wordplay, his live shows are alive with call-and-response anthems and unique and heartwarming party music that will fill the whole family with delight. In this special performance, 23 Skidoo will be joined by students from the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras for a performance of Mozartistic. Originally commissioned by the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, Mozartistic is an unforgettable blend of original hip-hop and classical pieces by Mozart. Find out why NPR said, “Nobody is making better ‘kid-hop’ than Secret Agent 23 Skidoo.” Everyone needs a ticket!

11:00am-12:00pm: Storytime at HIrshhorn
It’s Father’s Day! Join us for a special program in celebration of dad. We’ll look at sculptor Kenneth Snelson’s Needle Tower, then imagine we can climb to the moon with a read-aloud of Papa Please Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle. Following the story, we’ll create a special take-home artwork.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Zookeeper
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! Please note that movies will begin at 6:00pm and will be shown once, so end times may vary with each movie.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

April 27, 2018

The Georgetown French Market, one of the District’s most anticipated shopping weekends, marks the triumphant return of the spring season, this weekend beginning on Friday. Georgetown’s Book Hill neighborhood will transform into an inviting open-air market as the over 40 locally-owned merchants, restaurants, salons and galleries display discounted items and unique finds.

South Mountain Creamery Spring Festival is taking place all weekend long. All year round you welcome us them your home. This weekend, they’re welcoming you to theirs. There will be vendors, music, farmers market, food, games, activities, animals, hay rides and you’ll want to check out the milking parlor and take the production tour!

A few Parent’s Night Out events happening!

Saturday

10:00am-4:00pm: Ring in Spring with KinderCare
Union Stage is being transformed into a blooming spring pasture of overgrown flowers, exaggerated ladybugs and a sunny sky darted with clouds! Bring the entire family to spend a day with us and enjoy complimentary family portraits by Red Tricycle DC’s favorite family photographer, Stacey Vaeth, spring-themed activities for kids (6 weeks to 6 years), story time with Amy Mascott, of the famed teach mama blog, plus live musical entertainment! Before you leave, don’t forget to take home one of our favorite spring themed books, seeds for planting, and even schedule a tour at one of our KinderCare centers. Register above for a time slot.

10:00am-7:00pm: DC Chocolate Festival
The DC Chocolate Festival is a celebration of artisan and fine chocolate from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond! This event brings together over 30 chocolate vendors and thousands of chocolate lovers for a day of tasting, talking and learning. The morning block is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

11:00: Ready, Set, Think at Chevy Chase Library
Walk before you run; think before you code. Calling all 5-to-7-year-olds and their families: Come play some games and learn about computational thinking skills. Computational thinking is not thinking like a computer, but understanding how to organize and interpret information in a way that computers can process. These skills are the foundation for coding and problem solving. Each participant will take home activity sets to keep the fun going. Limited to the first 16 families. Recommended for ages 5-7 with adult.

11:00am-4:00pm: Carousel Day at Glen Echo
The historic Dentzel Carousel will open for its 98th season in Glen Echo Park on Carousel Day! The event also offers a full day (11:00am-4:00pm) of FREE activities for throughout Glen Echo Park, including live music & other performances, face painting, a roving magician, and carousel themed crafts. The carousel operates from 11:00am-5:00pm, $1.25 per ride. See Judy Moody and the Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt at Adventure Theatre while you are there!

Sunday

9:30am: Power Mama Yoga at Little Bit Yogi
Adult yoga class with little ones roaming.

10:00am-5:00pm: KID Museum Spark Behind the Science Day
What sparks someone’s passion for science and technology? Is it a trip to a museum, an inspiring teacher, or simply collecting shells at the beach? At Spark Behind the Science Day, meet STEM experts and find out what drove them to pursue their careers. Then, participate in a variety of hands-on activities to find your own spark! Drop in anytime.

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
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. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Dragons Love Tacos is the featured story.

11:00am-2:00pm: The Rumpus Room: A Family Dance Party
Welcome to the Rumpus Room, a daytime dance party for families, with sounds provided by DC’s top club DJs (who all happen to be parents themselves). Created by DJs who wanted to share the nightclub experience with their kids, the Rumpus Room adapts the club environment (think disco ball, lights, and of course music) into safe family-friendly fun. Get ready for a dance floor filled with little ones, parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. The soundtrack will be a family-friendly mix of dance hits and classics, all at a kid-friendly volume. We provide the shakers, hula-hoops, beach balls and other props. You come to dance.

2:00pm AND 4:00pm: NSO Family Concert at the Kennedy Center
In the spirit of a series of Young People’s Concerts made popular by Leonard Bernstein at Carnegie Hall, Emil de Cou conducts this delightful performance that explores the concepts of melody and rhythm. NSO Principal Second violinist Marissa Regni hosts and Emil de Cou conducts, with guest appearances by Christylez Bacon and Ben Folds. Come early for a Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo” in the Opera House Lobby. Starting one hour before each concert (1 p.m. & 3 p.m.), hands-on activities let children get up close with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage. The 2 p.m. performance is sensory friendly. Most enjoyed by ages 5 & up. Please note: everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Performance Timing: 1 hour, with no intermission.

Plan Ahead for Mother’s Day with some fun events:

Little Loft will have a spring photo shoot that will include be moms and kids. Kids draw portraits of mom at Little Loft, and Red Turtle Photography takes a professional portrait of mom with littles. Book your 15-min shoot for $95, $10 for second child, $5 for third+ for Saturday, May 12, 10:00am-2:00pm. Edited prints and digital files available for purchase — great Mother’s Day gift!

Nothing says love like a handmade gift from your little one. Red Panda Art Studio wants to help your child celebrate his or her wonderful mama by creating a fabulous gift (or gifts)! May 6 at the Little House at Westmoreland Hills Park from 10:00am-11:30am. Each child will have the opportunity to create a framed portrait of his or her mom, an Ikebana-inspired flower arrangement, a homemade herb planter, and more (we don’t want to give away all of the surprises here!). Geared towards ages 3 to 8. $35. Drop-off welcome.

Looking ahead:

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.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

April 6, 2018

The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum is hosting a Garden Party from 11am-4pm both Saturday & Sunday to celebrate the warmer weather, and to highlight one of our exhibitions, Beautiful Blooms: Flowering Plants on Stamps. The exhibition’s focus is on stamp art that features flowers and diverse elements of a garden, such as birds and flowering trees. The artwork on display represents some of the most attractive pieces in the renowned Postmaster General’s Collection, and we are excited to feature the exhibition as part of this educational, fun and inviting program.

Balloonacy at Imagination Stage is on it’s final weekend of performances. Shows are Saturday & Sunday.

Helpful information on the Cherry Blossoms can be found here.

Royal Adventure Days at B&O Railroad Museum allows you to spend the day with some of your favorite princesses and fairy tale characters. Explore 5 royal kingdoms where you interact or make crafts with royalty. Saturday, April 7, 10am – 3pm, Sunday, April 8, 11am – 3pm. Train Ride: Saturday at 11:30am, 12:30pm & 2pm. Sunday at 12pm & 2:30pm.

USA Science & Engineering Festival will be at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Saturday 10 am- 6 pm and Sunday 10 am- 4 pm. This is the Nation’s largest celebration of STEM. With over 3,000 hands-on exhibits, stage shows & scientists. Free 2-day expo!

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:15am: Theatreworks USA: Dragons Love Tacos and Other Stories
The National Theatre is thrilled to welcome Theatreworks USA’s newest musical revue of beloved contemporary children’s books! Dragons love all sorts of tacos – except spicy ones! When a boy throws his new dragon friends a spicy salsa taco party, red-hot trouble ensues. FREE

10:00am-12:00pm: Open Studio: Celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival! at Freer|Sackler
Celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival with the Freer|Sackler! Take a family-friendly tour and learn about nature in Japanese art (10:30 am). Then, continue to explore the Freer for pop-up art-making activities and artist demonstrations inspired by the spring season. All ages welcome with adult companions.

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

11:30am-3:00pm: Jazz Family Day at SAAM
Come and jam at SAAM during Jazz Appreciation Month! SAAM celebrates jazz’s influence on artists with activities and performances. Improvise with your own jazz-themed crafts, complete a swinging scavenger hunt, and bop to jazz performances throughout the day.

1:00pm-9:30pm: Petalpalooza
Join us for live music, games, fireworks, free product giveaways, and more. There are also lots of great restaurants along The Wharf where you can pop inside and grab a bite to eat. We’re looking forward to a fun-filled Saturday and can’t wait to see you there! To remain aware of updates, check back here or follow us on Facebook: CherryBlossomFestival and Twitter: @CherryBlossFest.

Sunday-

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Fun-Day at Imagination Stage
We invite you and your child 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. From Head to Toe is the featured story.

2:00pm AND 6:00pm: Bubble Guppies Live at National Theatre
Get the ultimate fan experience with the Meet and Greet Package. Package features premium show seating and a pre-show Meet and Greet with two Bubble Guppies Live friends – Gil and Molly! Meet and Greet packages will include a separate Meet and Greet ticket, which you’ll receive with your show tickets. Each adult and child (age 1 and up) in a group must purchase a Meet and Greet Package. All Meet and Greets start one hour before show time and last 20 minutes.**Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket.

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