free

PJ Library invites families for a LIVE interactive tour of Jerusalem to unlock the mysteries of the Holy City

July 12, 2020

Fun for the whole family, admission is free to “You Be the Detective: A Family Tour of Jerusalem,” a unique webinar, which runs from 1:30pm-2:30pm ET on Monday, July 13, 2020.

Though the coronavirus has upended summer travel plans for many, this July, PJ Library wants to send families to the holy city of Jerusalem for a unique and interactive trip. On Monday join engaging tour guide Jonty Blackman for the LIVE hour-long webinar “You Be the Detective: A Family Tour of Jerusalem.” Though bags don’t need to be packed and admission is free, space is limited and registration is required here. With Israel also suffering from coronavirus fall-out, tourism in the land of milk & honey has all but stopped. But that’s not stopping PJ Library from inviting interested “tourists” to unlock the mysteries of Jerusalem with a unique, interactive webinar.

Along with veteran Israel tour guide Blackman, families are invited to explore both the old and new city including stops at Jaffa Gate, the Knesset, the City of David and the world-famous Machane Yehudah outdoor market. And, along the way, PJ Library tourists will be invited to uncover the mysteries of Jerusalem, find the yummiest food in the market and discover ancient secrets hidden in archaeological discoveries. Don’t miss out on the most exciting trip of the summer – without leaving your home – with “You Be the Detective: A Family Tour of Jerusalem.”

Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at the National Postal Museum

February 5, 2020

The Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at the National Postal Museum is one of the very first events I included in a blog post back in 2014 when I was just staring out. I remember running into an acquaintance that Saturday afternoon, after the card workshop at the National Postal Museum had taken place. She told me she took her kids to the card workshop because she read about it on my blog and thought the event was the perfect way to get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day. She mentioned how crazy her kids went for all of the creative supplies the museum provided and how much fun they all had. Because this workshop is free and no registration is required, pop in when you can and create some cute DIY cards for those you love. More details about the program below…

Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 10:00am – 4:00pm
Sunday, February 9, 2020 from 10:00am – 4:00pm

Homemade love is in the air at the annual Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at the National Postal Museum on February 8th and 9th! Create handmade heartfelt cards to send to your loved ones.

The museum provides a bountiful spread of patterned papers, rubber stamps and postage stamps for decoration, gems and other 3-D embellishments, special cut-out scissors, washi tape, stickers, markers of every color (with a surplus of red and pink of course!) and more. Following their own creative instincts, kids and adults can choose whichever supplies they would like to design one-of-a-kind Valentine greetings.

Once finished, cards can then be placed in envelopes, addressed and adorned with a distinctive National Postal Museum postmark at the museum’s stamp store! How cool is this?! You may want to bring some addresses of those who you will make a card for because in keeping with educating children about the postal service and how mail works, kids can pop their own cards in an official USPS mailbox that is decorated to exactly resemble – none other than – SpongeBob SquarePants!

You will find the event at the National Postal Museum in the lower-level Atrium. For those new to the National Postal Museum, the Atrium is full of various postal transports from over the years, including a real train car, semi-truck (yes, kids can climb in and pretend to drive!), a horse-drawn carriage and airplanes hanging from the ceiling. The layout of the card-making stations and supply tables fosters sharing, friendliness and a sense of community. And the museum’s pleasant staff and volunteers are always available to answer questions, provide examples of completed cards, or help in any other way!

Visit the museum’s event calendar for information on the many fun and educational programs available at the National Postal Museum.

Address of the National Postal Museum:
2 Massachusetts Ave. NE. Washington, D.C. 20002

Tax Day Steals and Deals

April 16, 2018

Tax Day is tomorrow…. With the help of Forbes we have rounded up some Tax Day Deals and Freebies in our area to help celebrate Tax Day being behind us. Take advantage of these deals whether it be a discounted before school breakfast for the kiddos, a treat or a discounted hotel stay.

Food

Thanks to Great American Cookie Company, Tax Day will once again be pretty sweet. The national gourmet cookie shop will continue its annual Tax Day tradition by offering a free Cookies & Cream cookie to customers who stop by participating stores on April 17. Limit one per customer, while supplies last. According to the company’s Executive Vice President, David Kaiser, “Tax Day can be a bit of a bummer so our annual cookie freebie is our way of ‘sharing the fun of cookies’ and helping everyone take a delicious bite out of Tax Day stress.”
On Tuesday, April 17, any guest who dines in-restaurant at Boston Market can get a $10.40 Tax Day Meal Special, which includes a Half Chicken Individual Meal with 2 sides, cornbread, a regular fountain beverage and a cookie.
Bruegger’s Bagels brings back its annual Tax Day deal for a whole week, April 11-17, to match the extended tax filing season and lighten taxpayers’ load. Starting April 11, participating bakeries will offer Bruegger’s famous Big Bagel Bundle for just $10.40 with a downloadable coupon from the company’s website– a significant $3.50 “deduction” from the standard price.
Firehouse Subs is inviting guests to stop by to receive a free medium sub when they purchase a full price medium or large sub, chips and a drink (valid Tuesday, April 17 through Thursday, April 19, 2018). Please click here for a link to the offer.
California Tortilla.Get a free order of small chips and queso with any purchase Tuesday. You have to say “chipping in.”
Chuck E Cheese. This tax season, families can enjoy a guaranteed return at Chuck E. Cheese. The Tax Day (Tue, 4/17 – Thurs, 4/19) offer: Buy any large pizza, get one large cheese pizza free. U.S. only.
The Hamilton Hotel Washington D.C. Located in the heart of D.C., The Hamilton Hotel is offering a special “$1.4 Trillion Dollar Cocktail” – a delicious respite from the steadily rising national deficit – made with “conservative” amounts of Absolut Elyx, Blood Oranges, Elderflower Liquor and Passion Fruit Juice at the hotel’s restaurant and bar, 14k Restaurant. Appropriately priced at $14, the Hamilton Hotel encourages patrons to write this boozy cocktail off and de-stress this Tax Day.
Corner Bakery Café: Tuesday through Thursday you can mix and match two breakfast, lunch or dinner items for $10.40 at participating locations.
P.F. Chang’s On April 17, this popular Asian-themed chain is giving a 15% discount to diners at every location across the country. Discount not valid on drinks or Happy Hour food.
Tax Day is here and Potbelly Sandwich Shop is offering deals that will put some ease on your wallet. Customers who sign up for Potbelly Perks by downloading the Potbelly app (iPhone/Android) or online will receive a free sandwich (the free sandwich offer ends when 75,000 sandwiches have been given away). Those already enrolled in Potbelly Perks can enjoy a BOGO Sandwich that will automatically load into the app for redemption on Tax Day (April 17).

Traveling and Services

Marriott International in DC. Marriott International’s hotels in Washington, DC are encouraging travelers to enjoy their “returns” and do more by saving more with the Tax Day Deal. For two weeks only, April 11 through April 25, 2018, travelers can save up to 25% off best available weekend rates for stays June 29 – September 3, 2018. Rates are per room and exclude tax and gratuities. Offer valid Friday through Sunday. Terms and conditions apply. To book your reservation at participating hotels click here , and refer to promotional code SPU.
The Omni Homestead Resort. The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA, is offering a special: Book one night and the second night is just $25. You must book by 4/20/2018; valid for stays between 4/17/2018 – 12/22/2018.
Thinking of spending your tax refund in Europe? Rail Europe is offering travelers $25 off for $400 bookings made through April 24. Use code: TAXDAYRE18.

Weekend Picks: September 22-24, 2017

September 22, 2017

Fall Festivals have commenced!!! Let the apple and pumpkin picking start. Pictured above is a fabulous fall display the The National Harbor had set-up two years ago by the Wheel.

The Great Frederick Fair with rides, agriculture, fair food, animals and more will be happening through Saturday!

Maryland Renaissance Festival will be jousting and serving up lots of turkey legs for opening weekend! The festival is free to children 15 and under this weekend only. Take a time machine back to medieval times. 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. Dress like a knight and come participate or just watch! The Festival ends October 22 and is open weekends only.

****Follow our Instagram page to learn about more events, not included on the Weekend Picks!!!

Saturday- Museum Day Live! thanks to Smithsonian Magazine. Museums who typically charge admission, are free today.

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: Reptile World at The National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004)
Exotic creatures star in this amazing show! Michael Schwedick and his extraordinary animal friends not only teach kids invaluable lessons about the ecology, but also thrill them with up close reptile encounters. Adults will be awed by Michael’s ability to present alligators, snakes, and other sometimes scary creatures without frightening even the youngest children.

10:00am-5:00pm: Can you believe the National Museum of African American History & Culture is celebrating one-year of being open?! They are having an outdoor celebration that is free. See schedule for details.

10:30am: Here Comes Trouble at Jammin Java
(227 Maple Ave E Vienna, VA 22180)
Metro DC based kindie rock heroes HERE COMES TROUBLE is a band that is all about being silly, having fun, and finding the adventure in everything. Conservatory trained duo (and husband/wife team) Jon Babu and Kelly Donohue collaborate with their wacky band of friends to create irresistibly catchy lyrics and toe-tapping, genre-bending tunes that will keep you smiling all day long! $8

10:30am-11:15am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Ave 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. 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. Featured book: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

11:00am-5:00pm: Barrack’s Row Fall Festival
(Barracks Row)
A petting zoo, live music, beer garden, Star Wars characters dressed up, trapeze performers and the festival wraps up with a donkey procession.

11:00am-6:00pm: Reston Multicultural Festival
(2310 Colts Neck Rd Reston, VA 20191)
The Reston Multicultural Festival is a celebration of the diversity and community spirit that is found in Reston. This annual event brings together the people of Reston to celebrate our rich medley of cultures. Family, friends and neighbors are treated to music, entertainment, dress, food, and cultural treasures from all over the world that are all right here. This signature Reston event honors the diversity that is one of our greatest strengths. Everyone is encouraged to dress in attire from their own cultural roots and share the stories that we gather on the pathways of our lives. The Multicultural Festival features a Naturalization Ceremony, International Book Fair, National Heritage Award Fellows, arts & crafts, exciting entertainment, Art Mirrors Culture 2D and 3D exhibits, delicious food, and family activities from around the world.

7:00pm: Opera in the Outfield
(Nationals Park)
Celebrate the tenth season of free live opera simulcasts by joining Washington National Opera at Nationals Park for Aida. Gates open at 5 p.m. for pre-opera activities.

Sunday-

11:00am-4:00pm: ZooFiesta
(Smithsonian National Zoo)
Visitors can kick off the Smithsonian-wide Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at “ZooFiesta: Un día de diversión animal para toda la familia,”. There will be a variety of fun-filled family activities, including live music and educational activities about conservation in Central and South America. Animal keepers will host talks, feedings and demonstrations highlighting a variety of animals native to the region, including Andean bears, sloths, golden lion tamarins, Panamanian golden frogs and more. Visitors have an opportunity to meet Zoo scientists who are working to save native species and learn about their research.

11:00am-7:00pm: Turkish Festival
(Pennsylvania Avenue between 12th and 14th Streets NW)
With a 52 years legacy, ATA-DC’s mission has been cultivating the diversity in our city through its cultural, social and educational programs. In addition to the Turkish Festival, ATA-DC will take Washingtonians on a magical tour of Turkey with a variety of events showcasing Turkish culture, traditional arts, cuisine and movies during the 5th Annual Turkish Heritage Month. This cultural celebration will also highlight one of the regions of Turkey: the Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the most ancient cities of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors will have a chance to get a glimpse of Ephesus at the Annual DC Turkish Festival. Dancing, singing, lots of delicious food, shopping and more!

11:00am-8:00pm: DC State Fair
(Waterfront Station in Southwest DC- 375 and 425 M St. SW)
The DC State Fair is a free showcase of the District’s agricultural and creative talents and a daylong celebration of all things homegrown. While the DC State Fair is inspired by time-honored state fair traditions—growing and gardening, animal husbandry, and deep-fried foods—it also honors the things that make the District of Columbia unique. This means the DC State Fair holds competitions to find the best pupusas, mumbo sauce, and Double Dutch jumpers in the city, puts on a Pet Parade instead of a pig race, and works with local businesses and organizations that are committed to helping our community thrive.

12:00pm-4:00pm: Garden Day at Washington National Cathedral
(3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
Bring your picnic blanket and join us in the Bishop’s Garden and Lawn as we celebrate All Hallows Guild’s 101st birthday. Garden docents to answer your questions, free lawn games for children and adults, food available for purchase from Rocklands Barbeque and A&B Ice Cream, free All Hallows Guild carousel coloring books. A coloring and craft table for kids, live music in the All Hallows Amphitheater, Herb Cottage Gift Sales, artists in the Garden and scavenger hunt. No admission charge. Free parking is available on Sunday along Pilgrim Road

12:00pm-5:00pm: KidFest
(Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring, MD)
The DC Region’s largest annual family festival celebrating making, creativity, and innovation. Part of KID Museum’s ongoing effort to expose children and adults alike to the power of hands-on maker learning, KIDfest inspires them to find their own “spark.” Experience hands-on electronics, art, engineering, science, and crafts activities – along with awe-inspiring demos, engaging “KIDtalks,” and two stages of live musical performances and entertainment. Free parking and admission.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor
(165 Waterfront St National Harbor, MD 20745)
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:Beauty & the Beast

Tapping into the (often free!) Resources in Washington, DC for Early Intervention: Max’s Inspiring Story

September 6, 2016

This guest post is a touching story with helpful resources for parents brought to you by Jen Dryer, a mother to two sweet and energetic boys, is a parent advocate for parents of young children with developmental issues. She works to support families with children aged 0-5 who have any developmental delays navigate the process, both logistically and emotionally, of getting their children the early intervention services they need. Prior to her work as a parent advocate, Jen was a teacher and literacy staff developer for 13 years in NYC public schools, and 5 years in DC area public, charter and private schools, and is currently a yoga teacher for kids and adults.

Jen Dryer
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Live music this summer in Washington, DC

May 16, 2016

One of my favorite parts about summer in Washington, DC are the (mostly) free, outdoor concerts you can find. A few summers ago we took a sporadic drive to the Mall, walked around, played some ball by the reflecting pool with our then three year old and walked towards the Capitol where the U.S. Air Force Band was performing a free concert. A huge crowd was gathered on the steps and in chairs taking in the gorgeous evening and patriotic tunes. I had no idea they performed for free and for the public on random evenings. This post will help you take advantage of some great music that will help you relax after a long day and see a bit of our city while doing so. Also, included are family focused shows at some favorite venues. Get out and enjoy the lighter evenings, let your kids stay up a little longer and enjoy the music our city offers.

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.

Strathmore’s Backyard Theatre for Children
Enrich your little ones’ summer mornings with sunshine, music, and laughter at Strathmore’s Backyard Theater for Kids. This eclectic program is the perfect summer escape for busy families. Pack a picnic and enjoy live performances by highly esteemed and innovative family-friendly entertainers. From folk and jazz to the amazing sounds of the steelpan, Backyard Theater makes it easy to engage kids at every stage. We promise to keep both kids and parents entertained, so bring your family for a morning of inspiration and celebration!

LITTLE MISS ANN Thu, July 5

JOJO & THE PINECONES Thu, July 12

POSITIVE VIBRATIONS Thu, July 19

LUCKY DIAZ & THE FAMILY JAM BAND Thu, July 26

Also for kids!
ARTS ON THE HORIZON: TO THE CLOUDS Sat, July 28

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Free places to take kids in Washington, DC

July 6, 2015

Most people think of the Smithsonian Museums, Galleries and Zoo as being the only free places to take kids or offer to visitors who are in town. While those are definitely worth the trip and are family go-to’s when escaping bad weather, the city has many other free options.

Park your car (off the northbound George Washington Parkway in Virginia) at Gravelly Point Park and head to a picnic table, the grass or sit on the dock and watch airplanes take off from Reagan National Airport. There are walking and bike paths that run through the park as well.

Your family can explore the exhibits and then create an art project through Freer and Sackler Gallery ImaginAsia Family Programming.

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