Beltway Bambinos

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

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

Summer Reading Sundays with the Washington Nationals

May 25, 2022

The Nationals are proud to be the Team that Reads, promoting reading and literacy in the community. This summer, the Nationals invite you to join us on the Team that Reads through a number of different initiatives! These include joining your local library’s Summer Reading program (launching June 1), Major League Baseball’s Summer Slugger program, or Nationals Summer Reading Ambassadors Sean Doolittle and Josh Bell for Summer Reading Sundays. 

This baseball season, The Washington Nationals have expanded the annual Summer Reading program to include four events at the ballpark – Summer Reading Sundays. All of these, which are FREE to attend with a ticket to that day’s game, feature a read-along with a Nationals player plus other fun activities. This Sunday, Sean Doolittle will be reading to the group, and among the featured games is one of my personal favorites, Mad-Libs. Additionally, each child who attends will receive up to THREE FREE BOOKS to take home.

This Sunday’s event takes place from 12:15-1:15 p.m. in the Kennedy Room, which is located on the Club Level at Nationals Park down the third-base line. First pitch of Sunday’s game vs. the Colorado Rockies is at 1:35 p.m., and gates open at 12:00 p.m.

Additional Summer Reading Sunday events are scheduled for June 12, July 17 and August 14. For more information, including locations for each event, which may change week-to-week, visit here.

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Filed Under: Education, Summer Tagged: library, reading, summer, washington nationals

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

July 20, 2018

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

Friday

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

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

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

7:00pm-9:00pm:The Yards Park Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 8th Season. Every Friday night this summer, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike.

Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday

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

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

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Holes
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor. Pack your picnic blankets, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages! They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm.

 

See a fabulous kid-friendly show this weekend!

  • Paper Dreams is at Imagination Stage which brings to life their first DANCE performance based show, perfect for ages 1-5 that explores the many facets of creativity. A fun, interactive production that tells the story of two delightful creatures who live inside a wastepaper basket. Can our greatest mistake actually turn out to be the next greatest innovative idea?
  • Imagination Stage also has You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown for the older audience. You don’t want to miss your chance to see the comic strip characters of the lovable “Peanuts” gang comic brought to life! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally, and Schroeder as they sing and dance their way through the timeless struggles of childhood. This show features catchy songs, including “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”, and is the perfect family outing for the young and young at heart!
  • Adventure Theatre has everyone believing in fairies with Tinkerbell. Everyone knows the story of Peter Pan. Or, at least, everyone thinks they do. But unless you have heard it from Tinker Bell’s point of view, you really have not heard it at all. A new twinkling light shines on all the characters you love including, Wendy, the Lost Boys, Peter Pan, Smee, and the nefarious Hook from a feisty fairy’s point of view.
  • Glen Echo Puppet Co has Winter Wonderland and Snow White and the 7 Dwarves for a variety of audiences.
  • Wolf Trap Kids Opera – Listen, Wilhelmina! | Terry Leonino & Greg Artzner – Deep Earth/Deep Ocean 
  • Wizard of Oz at Synetic Theater at Georgetown University through August 12. A wizard stuck in a land far away from home—A Scarecrow tied to a pole–A Tinman rusted in a forest–A Lion afraid of his own shadow…their world turned upside down when Dorothy arrives in Oz.

Posts you may like:
All Aboard!
Kids Eat Free

Plan ahead:
Loudoun County Fair: July 23-28
Tanabata: The Japanese Star Festival at Hillwood Museum: July 28

Yoga in the Sculpture Garden at Kreeger Museum: July 28

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: Archaeology, art, dinosaurs, jazz, library, lotus and lily festival, mars, movie, music, theatre, washington nationals player

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

June 29, 2018

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

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

Breakfast with the Bears at the National Zoo will run on Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, July 1 from 9-10:30am. This is a class you can surely sink your teeth into. Learn about the favorite foods of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s three species of bears, and then join us for outdoor snack time outside one of the bear exhibits! Friends of the National Zoo preschool classes are designed for children ages 2-3 to discover a whole new view of the National Zoo. “Adult-and-me” format classes use interactive learning stations, hands-on activities and crafts, Nature Play, and exciting Zoo Walks to engage your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity about wildlife and the natural world. Pre-registration is required.

Friday

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

7:00pm-9:00pm: Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 8th Season. Every Friday night this summer, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike.

Saturday

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

10:15am: Children’s Art Talk & Tour at Strathmore
Young art lovers can get behind the brushstrokes and into the head, heart, and history of the artists with these kid-friendly Saturday tours. Children take part in an educational guided tour of the current exhibitions followed by a hands-on art activity. Ages 7 & up. Accompanying adults are free. Reservations required.

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

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

Sunday

(Photo: Red Panda Art Studio)

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

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

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

Other articles you may be interested in: 

Kids Eat Free in DC

Summer Camp Guide

Local Theatre Performances

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: art, library, literature, music, smithsonian, smithsonian folklife festival, stem, Strathmore, truck touch, wolf trap childrens theatre in the woods

Weekend Picks: May 5-7, 2017

May 4, 2017

Landon School invites you, your family and your friends to the 64th annual Azalea Garden Festival, which will be held Friday, May 5, through Sunday, May 7, 10 am–5 pm daily, on Landon’s campus located at 6101 Wilson Lane in Bethesda, MD. The Azalea Garden Festival features carnival rides, fantastic boutiques, upscale resale, plant sales, delicious food, live music and more! Admission and parking are free. Please join us!

Come stroll the gorgeous grounds 10am-6:00pm Friday and 10am-5pm on Saturday at the  78th Annual Flower Mart at Washington National Cathedral on the grounds at 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016. Entertainment and Special Events occur both days – most are free of charge. Small fees for puppet shows, carousel rides and children’s rides and games.

Funk Parade is a one-of-a-kind day fair, parade and music festival, celebrating Washington DC’s vibrant music and arts, the U Street neighborhood, and the Spirit of Funk that brings us all together. It will feature over 150 hours of live music and dance programming, art installations, large-scale activations and more. The Day Fair is from 12:00pm-7:00pm, parade is from 3:00pm-4:00pm and music festival is 7:00pm-10:00pm.

(Pictures: 3 years ago at Landon’s Azalea Garden Festival)

Friday- Cinco De Mayo!

7:00pm: Union Market Drive-In
(1309 5th St NE Washington, DC 20002)
Star Wars: The Force Awakens (136 minutes, rated PG-13) is the movie this weekend. Lot opens 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 7:50, Film begins 8:15 , Film ends at 10:30. $10 parking fee per car. Advance purchase is highly recommended.Free for walk-ups. Excited for the drive-in but don’t have a car? Rent one on Getaround for the night and get $25 off your first rental. For more information and tickets click here.

Saturday-

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

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

10:00am-4:00pm: Around the World Embassy Tour
More than 40 embassies will open their doors to DC visitors and residents for this free event. Participants can travel the world as they experience the food, art, dance, fashion, and music of different countries. In the past, visitors have been treated to karate demonstrations, dance performances, sari wrapping lessons, and henna demonstrations.

10:00am-1:00pm: Truck Touch at Silver Spring Nursery School
(10501 New Hampshire Ave Silver Spring, MD 20903)
Our parking lot will be filled with vehicles of every kind that kids of all ages can explore, rain or shine. Live Entertainment with local favorites: RockStarts! at 10:45 am and Mr. Gabe at 11:45 am. Plus: Bake Sale, Snow Cones, Food & Drinks, Arts & Crafts and Face Painting. $5 per person and free for kids under age 2.

10:30am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Ave Bethesda, MD 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 of the songs to practice at home for ages 1-5. Register online. Featured: Cha Cha Chimps

11:00am-4:00pm: Train Day at National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave., N.E. Washington, DC 20002)
Every year, we celebrate the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad (May 10, 1869) at the Postal Museum. Finally there were train tracks connecting East and West, allowing the Post Office to quickly move mail by trains across the entire country. On Train Day, come and experience the Railway Post Office by checking out the inside of the train car, learn how train conductors use whistle signals to communicate, and get to know some jargon used by Postal Clerks who worked on the Railway Post Offices. We will also have model trains running through our Museum Atrium. Enjoy a special Story Time and “meet” Owney the Dog, a mascot of the Railway Post Office too! Free admission.

1:00pm-3:00pm: Family Capoeira at Guy Mason Recreation Center
(3600 Calvert Street NW Washington, DC 20007)
Family Capoeira is an integrative fitness program for families and individuals that combines capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art, with strength, flexibility, and endurance exercises. Accessible for all ages, this fun class engages everyone in the music, cultural history, and physical play of capoeira. Participants will learn the foundational movements of capoeira and practice applying them in a real roda, or game, with a partner. Specially customized to be a dynamic, intergenerational experience for all, Family Capoeira will get the whole family moving their bodies and feeling great too! All ages welcome. Free and open to the public. This program is facilitated by The Family Dances.

DC Public Library is hosting so many fabulous kid-friendly performances and activities at Harrison
Recreation Center at 1330 V Street NW between 12pm – 4pm on Saturday. Schedule: 12:00 pm: Sticks+Bars Youth Marimba Ensemble 12:45 pm: PanLara Youth Steel Orchestra 1:30 pm: “In the Pocket”: a go-go conga Masterclass 2:15 pm: Rhythm Prep for Kid’s Funk Parade with 7DrumCity 2:30 pm: Kid’s Funk Parade (led by 7DrumCity to join the Funk Parade) 4:00 pm: Funk Parade HS Marching Band Battle *Other Activities will be planned between 12:00pm – 3:00pm:  7DrumCity Tent – make your own percussive instruments from household items or bring your own drum and learn some basic drumming skills. Costume Corner – Build your own costume and instruments with the DC Public Library. Efron the Wizard’s Yo-Yo Workshop. Soka Tribe Caribbean Dance Workshop. The Dailey Method Yoga Class at Noon on the Field. DCPL Children’s Librarians on-hand with funky musical picture books to checkout.

 

Sunday-

10:00am-1:00pm: Infant/Child CPR at Edlavitch DCJCC
(1529 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20036)
Make your family safer by learning life-saving skills from American Heart Association Jay Gruber. $62/per person.

11:00am: Sunday Fun-Day at Imagination Stage(4908 Auburn Ave Bethesda, MD 20814)
We invite you and your child to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, movement, music, and visual art. Each session, you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home for ages 1-5. Register online. Featured: Where the Wild Things Are

11:00am-12:00pm: hiSTORYtime at National Museum of American History
(12th St and Constitution Ave NW)
Join us for hiSTORYtime, a program for children ages 0 to 6. Early learners and their caregivers may drop by to listen to a story and participate in hands-on activities and crafts inspired by objects and themes from the museum collection. Come by every first and third Saturday of the month for new themes, stories and activities! Theme today: ANIMALS

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: azaela festival, capoeira, CPR, Drive-in, embassy, flower mart, funk, history, library, literature, songs, trains, truck touch

Weekday Adventures: May 1-5, 2017

April 30, 2017

DC Library has so many wonderful family-friendly events from story times, lego build afternoons to movie nights.

Busy Bees is celebrating mom all month long with a HUGE sale!​ During the whole month of May, it’s  TWO for ONE Tuesday AND Thursdays!! So grab your besties for a Funtastic playdate on Tuesdays with us! **Discount only applies with 1 regular price admission: Buzzy Pass and Military discount are excluded from the offer**All guests must come together for discount to apply** Chevy Chase location coming soon.

Come spend an hour playing in our specially designed open gym area at Silver Stars Gymnastics. This is an opportunity for you and your child to have fun in a safe environment. Class participation is not required to enjoy Open Gym. 8 years old & under: $9 per child/visit or buy a pass: 10 visits for $70. Monday-Friday 12:00pm-1:00pm at Silver Spring location.

Toddler Time at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park is a great shared experience for child and parent. A time for your little ones to discover the joy of being active, bouncing under the supervision of their parents, and without interference from the big kids. Toddler times are Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: (9:30AM – 11:00AM), Sunday: (8:30AM – 10:00AM) for $7.00.

Monday-

9:30am-11:00am- Rise and Rhyme at Busboys and Poets
(234 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012)
(5531 Baltimore Ave., Hyattsville, Md. 20781)
Rise + Rhyme is a weekly Busboys and Poets series for early rising families of all kinds. Featuring performances and stories for children ages 5 and under.

9:30am: Harambe at Bloombars
(3222 11th St NW, Washington, DC. 20010)
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-11:30am: Toddler Art Time at New Community ArtSpace + Story time
(614 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Valentine making and story time! We will be closed next week.  $5/child + supply donations are welcome. Special music time at 11:00am with Mr. Gabe.

10:30am AND 11:00am: Storytime at The National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum invites adults and young children (ages 2-3) to discover the world around them together at our monthly StoryTime. Children will build important developmental and social skills through books, activities, songs and self-guided gallery exploration. Explore themes, such as shapes, colors, and sizes, in a relaxed setting at your neighborhood museum. Feel free to bring snacks and enjoy the space after the program! Free- no reservation required.

10:30am-11:00am: Songs and stories at Politics and Prose
(5015 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008)
Come sing-along to your favorite songs. Grab a treat in the cafe afterwards or hang out reading books.

Tuesday-

10:00am: Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Pavilion
(10th St. and Constitution Ave., NW)
Every Tuesday at 10:00am you can get into the magnificent butterfly pavilion for free! Make sure and get a free ticket by the entrance. We visited this last month and were amazed by how many butterflies were flying around, some even landing on a shoulder. Look closely and you could spot a frog under some trees.

10:00am AND 11:30am: Shadow Puppets at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
This shadow puppet stage show will feature a variety of characters and menagerie of traditional and original songs. It explores themes that center around the seasons, the environment, as well as learning components of music.

12:00pm: Strolling Thunder
(Upper Senate Park)
We’re pushing strollers to put babies in the spotlight. Join babies and parents from across the country for a stroll on Capitol Hill. Be part of the team that’s fighting for their future. On May 2, ZERO TO THREE will bring babies and parents from all 50 states to meet their members of Congress during Strolling Thunder. We’re coming to tell Congress to Think Babies—for stronger families, vibrant communities, and a prosperous country. RSVP here

12:30pm: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
This is Aladdin as you’ve never seen it before. Aladdin and his love, the princess Adora, must outsmart an evil Magician who wants to use the genie in Aladdin’s lamp for his nefarious schemes! Will he get away with it? Get ready for love, magic, and mystery in this production for all ages.

Wednesday-

10:00am: Tiny Tots- Baby Bear’s Birthday at Puppet Co
(7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812)
You are invited to a BIG birthday bash! Please join Baby Bear as all of his special Teddy Bear friends perform their very best circus tricks as a great, big birthday surprise! Tickets are $6, everyone needs a ticket.

10:00am-4:00pm: Wings of Fancy Live Butterfly and Caterpillar Exhibit at Brookside Gardens
(1800 Glenallan Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902)
The seasonal display features hundreds of live butterflies from all over the world. Families, students, nature lovers, and everyone in between can get an up close experience of these brilliant butterflies from North America, Costa Rica, Africa and Asia as they soar among colorful flowers. Visitors can learn about their amazing metamorphosis, the important role butterflies play in having healthy ecosystems, and how to ensure these beautiful insects thrive in our own gardens. $8 ages 13+, $5 ages 3-12 and Free ages 0-2.

10:00am-11:00am: Little Treasures at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Artist in Bloom Resident Tamika Love Jones presents Little Treasures, an educational and interactive journey for babies and children (under age 3) that explores a special box of little treasures. Each treasure that is picked from the box will lead tots and parents to sing their favorite songs, read fun stories and explore their bodies through exciting movement. The theme of Little treasures is self-love and teaching the tots that they, too, are little treasures!

5:30pm-6:30pm: Samba Kids
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Join Zezeh Brazil (Sao Paolo), former carnaval queen, radio personality and dance instructor extraordinaire for child & family samba dance lessons. It’s never too early to learn the infectious dance of the world’s 5th largest country. Samba Kids is the perfect introduction to movement and rhythm, not to mention Portuguese. The classes starts with yoga followed by a dance class to the sound of Brazilian carnival music for kids.

7:00pm: Family Craft Night at Chevy Chase Library
(5625 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington,  D.C.  20015)
Arts and crafts for children of all ages.

Thursday (May the Fourth Be With you!)-

10:30am: Boogie Babes at Eastern Market
(225 7th Street SE- North Hall)
The Boogie Babes program brings interactive musical performances for young children and their caregivers each week to area neighborhoods. The events, typically 45 minutes in length, provide a wonderful way to expose children to different musical instruments and styles while also raising funds for and awareness of DC Diaper Bank’s work and mission. $6 per child (siblings under 6 months free!)

12:30pm: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
This is Aladdin as you’ve never seen it before. Aladdin and his love, the princess Adora, must outsmart an evil Magician who wants to use the genie in Aladdin’s lamp for his nefarious schemes! Will he get away with it? Get ready for love, magic, and mystery in this production for all ages.

Friday-

10:00am: 78th Annual Flower Mart at Washington National Cathedral
(3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
Entertainment and Special Events Occur Both Days – Most are Free of Charge. Small fees for puppet shows, carousel rides and children’s rides and games. The 78th annual Flower Mart, May 5th and 6th, 2017 will be a celebration of the beginning of the All Hallows Guild’s 2nd Century as stewards to the gardens and grounds of the Washington National Cathedral.

10:30am: The Young Readers Center Story Time
(Jefferson Building, Room G29)
Story time for infants and toddlers. Due to an occupancy review of the Center by the Library of Congress Safety Services Office, we are required to limit the number of participating children and adults to 50. Free admission stickers will be distributed on a first-come, first- served basis beginning at 10 a.m. Please check this website or call the YRC at 202-707-1950 for any changes to this schedule.

4:00pm-6:00pm: BINGO at Guy Mason Recreation Center
(3600 Calvert Street, NW)
If you like meeting people, playing games, having fun and winning prizes! Mix and mingle with neighbors and friends while playing BINGO! Win nice prizes, and have fun without having to travel far… So come on out and join us in BINGO at Guy Mason! For more information, please contact Ms. Bell at (202) 727-7703

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Filed Under: Weekday Adventures Tagged: butterfly, flower mart, gymnastics, library, music, story time, theatre

Weekday Adventures: April 24-28, 2017

April 23, 2017

DC Library has so many wonderful family-friendly events from story times, lego build afternoons to movie nights.

Toddler Time at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park is a great shared experience for child and parent. A time for your little ones to discover the joy of being active, bouncing under the supervision of their parents, and without interference from the big kids. Toddler times are Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: (9:30AM – 11:00AM), Sunday: (8:30AM – 10:00AM) for $7.00.

Monday-

9:30am-11:00am- Rise and Rhyme at Busboys and Poets
(234 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012)
(5531 Baltimore Ave., Hyattsville, Md. 20781)
Rise + Rhyme is a weekly Busboys and Poets series for early rising families of all kinds. Featuring performances and stories for children ages 5 and under.

9:30am: Harambe at Bloombars
(3222 11th St NW, Washington, DC. 20010)
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-11:30am: Toddler Art Time at New Community ArtSpace + Story time
(614 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Valentine making and story time! We will be closed next week.  $5/child + supply donations are welcome. Special story time at 11:00am. with Ms. Julie from DC Library.

10:30am AND 11:00am: Storytime at The National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum invites adults and young children (ages 2-3) to discover the world around them together at our monthly StoryTime. Children will build important developmental and social skills through books, activities, songs and self-guided gallery exploration. Explore themes, such as shapes, colors, and sizes, in a relaxed setting at your neighborhood museum. Feel free to bring snacks and enjoy the space after the program! Free- no reservation required.

10:30am-11:00am: Songs and stories at Politics and Prose
(5015 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008)
Come sing-along to your favorite songs. Grab a treat in the cafe afterwards or hang out reading books.

Tuesday-

10:00am AND 11:30am: Shadow Puppets at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
This shadow puppet stage show will feature a variety of characters and menagerie of traditional and original songs. It explores themes that center around the seasons, the environment, as well as learning components of music.

12:30pm: 10:30am: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
This is Aladdin as you’ve never seen it before. Aladdin and his love, the princess Adora, must outsmart an evil Magician who wants to use the genie in Aladdin’s lamp for his nefarious schemes! Will he get away with it? Get ready for love, magic, and mystery in this production for all ages.

Wednesday-

10:00am-4:00pm: Wings of Fancy Live Butterfly and Caterpillar Exhibit at Brookside Gardens
(1800 Glenallan Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902)
The seasonal display features hundreds of live butterflies from all over the world OPENS TODAY. Families, students, nature lovers, and everyone in between can get an up close experience of these brilliant butterflies from North America, Costa Rica, Africa and Asia as they soar among colorful flowers. Visitors can learn about their amazing metamorphosis, the important role butterflies play in having healthy ecosystems, and how to ensure these beautiful insects thrive in our own gardens. $8 ages 13+, $5 ages 3-12 and Free ages 0-2.

10:00am-11:00am: Little Treasures at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Artist in Bloom Resident Tamika Love Jones presents Little Treasures, an educational and interactive journey for babies and children (under age 3) that explores a special box of little treasures. Each treasure that is picked from the box will lead tots and parents to sing their favorite songs, read fun stories and explore their bodies through exciting movement. The theme of Little treasures is self-love and teaching the tots that they, too, are little treasures!

5:30pm-6:30pm: Samba Kids
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Join Zezeh Brazil (Sao Paolo), former carnaval queen, radio personality and dance instructor extraordinaire for child & family samba dance lessons. It’s never too early to learn the infectious dance of the world’s 5th largest country. Samba Kids is the perfect introduction to movement and rhythm, not to mention Portuguese. The classes starts with yoga followed by a dance class to the sound of Brazilian carnival music for kids.

7:00pm: Family Craft Night at Chevy Chase Library
(5625 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington,  D.C.  20015)
Arts and crafts for children of all ages.

Thursday-

10:30am: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
This is Aladdin as you’ve never seen it before. Aladdin and his love, the princess Adora, must outsmart an evil Magician who wants to use the genie in Aladdin’s lamp for his nefarious schemes! Will he get away with it? Get ready for love, magic, and mystery in this production for all ages.

10:30am: Guava Jelly at Eastern Market with Boogie Babes
(225 7th Street SE- North Hall)
The Boogie Babes program brings interactive musical performances for young children and their caregivers each week to area neighborhoods. The events, typically 45 minutes in length, provide a wonderful way to expose children to different musical instruments and styles while also raising funds for and awareness of DC Diaper Bank’s work and mission. $6 per child (siblings under 6 months free!)

Friday-

10:00am-11:30am: Nature Explorers Together at Locust Grove Nature Center
(7777 Democracy Boulevard Bethesda, Maryland 20817)
Parents and caregivers will have the chance to play, create, and learn right alongside their little nature explorers. Classes will include hands-on, nature based activities that encourage imaginative play, curiosity, and cooperation. The majority of the class will be outdoors, barring extreme weather, so be sure to dress for the weather. $10

4:00pm-6:00pm: BINGO at Guy Mason Recreation Center
(3600 Calvert Street, NW)
If you like meeting people, playing games, having fun and winning prizes! Mix and mingle with neighbors and friends while playing BINGO! Win nice prizes, and have fun without having to travel far… So come on out and join us in BINGO at Guy Mason! For more information, please contact Ms. Bell at (202) 727-7703

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Filed Under: Weekday Adventures Tagged: butterflies, crafts, dance, library, nature, theatre, trampol

Weekday Adventures February 13-17

February 12, 2017

In case you missed this weekends post, “Like and Comment” on Beltway Bambino’s Facebook page to enter to win a $50 gift card for your Valentine’s Day shopping from Whole Foods Market! Read all about how I made a low-maintenance, delicious Valentine’s Day dinner from Whole Foods Market. And while you’re there make sure you like our Facebook page for articles, event postings and more.

DC Library has so many wonderful family-friendly events from story times, lego build afternoons to movie nights.

Screenshot2012-02-14at80246AM

Monday-

9:30am-11:00am- Rise and Rhyme at Busboys and Poets
(234 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012)
(5531 Baltimore Ave., Hyattsville, Md. 20781)
Rise + Rhyme is a weekly Busboys and Poets series for local stay-at-home parents and early rising families of all kinds. Featuring performances and stories for children ages 5 and under.

9:30am: Harambe at Bloombars
(3222 11th St NW, Washington, DC. 20010)
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-11:30am: Toddler Art Time at New Community ArtSpace
(614 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Valentine making and story time! We will be closed next week.  $5/child + supply donations are welcome

10:30am: Storytime at The National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum invites adults and young children (ages 2-3) to discover the world around them together at our monthly StoryTime. Children will build important developmental and social skills through books, activities, songs and self-guided gallery exploration. Explore themes, such as shapes, colors, and sizes, in a relaxed setting at your neighborhood museum. Feel free to bring snacks and enjoy the space after the program! Free- no reservation required.

10:30am-11:00am: Songs and stories at Politics and Prose
(5015 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008)
Come sing-along to your favorite songs. Grab a treat in the cafe afterwards or hang out reading books.

Tuesday-

10:00am AND 11:30am: Shadow Puppets at Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
This shadow puppet stage show will feature a variety of characters and menagerie of traditional and original songs. It explores themes that center around the seasons, the environment, as well as learning components of music.

11:00am AND 1:00pm: Museum ABC’s at The National Museum of American History for Museum
(12th St & Constitution Ave NW 1st Floor, West Wing)
ABCs, a new program for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions! Museum ABCs introduces early learners to the museum collection through a new letter, new object, and new interactive experience every month.

lego2_14:00pm: Lego Playtime and Engineering Challenge at Georgetown Library
(3260 R St. NW Washington,  D.C.  20007)
Do you like to build with Legos and solve puzzles? Join us to work through engineering challenges like, “who can build a paper airplane that carries the most cargo over 10 feet,” or just come to build with Legos and r elax after school. We’ll have a different short challenge each week and Legos all the time. This program is recommended for ages 4 and up.

4:00pm-6:00pm: Two for One at Capitol Riverfront
(200 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003)
Get two ice rink admissions for the price of one at Capitol Riverfront ! Skate rental sold separately.

Wednesday-

10:30am: Mr. Skip at The Miracle Theatre on Barracks Row with Boogie Babes
(535 8th Street SE)
The Boogie Babes program brings interactive musical performances for young children and their caregivers each week to area neighborhoods. The events, typically 45 minutes in length, provide a wonderful way to expose children to different musical instruments and styles while also raising funds for and awareness of DC Diaper Bank’s work and mission. $6 per child (siblings under 6 months free!)

7:00pm: Family Craft Night at Chevy Chase Library
(5625 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington,  D.C.  20015)
Arts and crafts for children of all ages.

Thursday-

10:00am: Story time at Foundry United Methodist Church
(16th St NW and P St NW)
Come and join us for a new 6-week, story time class. Children ages 1-4 years old (although younger babies welcome) and their caretakers are invited to come and sing, hear stories, and play. This is not a drop-off class, caretakers must stay with the children. Sign-up soon – class size is limited. The cost is $30 ($5 per class). Fee waivers available.

10:30am: Uno, Dos, Tres Con Andres at Eastern Market with Boogie Babes
(225 7th Street SE- North Hall)
The Boogie Babes program brings interactive musical performances for young children and their caregivers each week to area neighborhoods. The events, typically 45 minutes in length, provide a wonderful way to expose children to different musical instruments and styles while also raising funds for and awareness of DC Diaper Bank’s work and mission. $6 per child (siblings under 6 months free!)

7:30pm: Dinner in 30: Quick, Easy, and Healthy Dinner Solutions at Edlavitch DCJCC
(529 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20036)
In this workshop, health coach and busy mom Jessica Braider will focus on tricks and tips for getting a healthy dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less.  We will discuss the roadblocks to making dinner (kids underfoot, prepping ingredients, clean-up, etc.) and how we can overcome them.  Participants will learn how to make a weekly meal plan and will leave with recipes and approaches that are easy, fun, and healthy. $15 register now.

Friday-

-1

10:30am AND 11:45am: Kitchen Adventures at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church with Encore Stage & Studio
(4000 Lorcom Ln Arlington, VA 22207)
Something’s sizzling at Encore! In its newest play series for preschoolers, Encore Stage & Studio presents Kitchen Adventures. Actors bring nutrition balancing acts and colorful foods to life, all the while teaching your little one about healthy choices. With more than a tablespoon of fun, Encore has the recipe for an exciting theatre-going experience for you and your child! $10 tickets

10:30am: Ella Enchanted at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
Based on the Newberry Honor book by Gail Carson Levine. Baby Ella of Frell is given the “gift” of obedience by Lucinda, a misguided fairy, and thus cannot disobey any direct order. Then when tragedy strikes, Ella is reduced to an obedient servant in her new home with Dame Olga. Can Ella find a way to rid herself of the troublesome curse?

4:00pm-6:00pm: BINGO at Guy Mason Recreation Center
(3600 Calvert Street, NW)
If you like meeting people, playing games, having fun and winning prizes! Mix and mingle with neighbors and friends while playing BINGO! Win nice prizes, and have fun without having to travel far… So come on out and join us in BINGO at Guy Mason! For more information, please contact Ms. Bell at (202) 727-7703

Leave a Comment
Filed Under: Weekday Adventures Tagged: art, bingo, ice skating, library, music, puppets, songs, story time, theatre, Valentine's Day

Weekend Picks January 13-15

January 13, 2017

img4328.jpg

(Photo: Create DC Arts Festival)

Saturday- 

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

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

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Filed Under: Weekend Picks Tagged: art, language, library, theatre, woodshop

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