movies Archives - Beltway Bambinos

Movie passes to see God Bless the Broken Road & Peppermint

August 27, 2018

Wednesday, August 29 at 7:00 pm at Regal Gallery Place
Get your passes here. 25 admit 2 first-come, first-served passes.

Synopsis | God Bless the Broken Road tells the inspirational story of a young mother who loses her husband in Afghanistan and struggles to raise their young daughter in his absence. The film focuses on the importance of family, friends, and faith, while paying tribute to those who serve in the United States Military.

Cast | Lindsay Pulsipher, Makenzie Moss, Andrew Walker, Kim Delaney, Robin Givens, Gary Grubbs, Arthur Cartwright, LaDainian “LT” Tomlinson, Madeline Carroll, Jordin Sparks
Directed by | Harold Cronk
Produced by | Edgar Struble, Dustin Solomon, Andy Fraser, Jeremy Page, Stephen Afendoulis, Gary Lewis, Troy Duhon, Tracy Thomas
Rating | PG for thematic elements and some combat action
Run Time | 105 minutes

Peppermint

Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at 7:00pm at Regal Majestic
Get your passes here. 25 admit 2 first-come, first-served passes.

Synopsis | Peppermintis a high impact, Jennifer Garner led, action thriller which tells the story of young mother who awakens from a coma after her husband and daughter are killed in a brutal attack on the family. When the system frustratingly shields the murderers from justice, Riley sets out to transform herself from citizen to urban guerilla. Channeling her frustration into personal motivation, she spends years in hiding honing her mind, body and spirit to become an unstoppable force – eluding the underworld, the LAPD and the FBI- as she methodically delivers her personal brand of justice.

Cast | Jennifer Garner, John Ortiz, John Gallagher Jr., Juan Pablo Raba
Directed by | Pierre Morel
Produced by | Tom Rosenberg, Gary Lucchesi, Eric Reid, Richard Wright
Rating | R for strong violence and language throughout
Run Time | 102 minutes
Release Date | September 7, 2018 by STXfilms

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

July 7, 2018

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 and ends this weekend, 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.

The Washington Nationals take on the Florida Marlins all weekend.

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 Old MacDonald’s Farm and Snow White and the 7 Dwarves for a variety of audiences.
The Pop-Ups take on Wolf Trap Theatre-in-the-Woods. Described as “Flaming Lips for kids” (NPR), The Pop Ups will be sure to bring the house down with their rock ‘n’ roll puppet musical.

Saturday

9:00am-12:00pm: Home Depot Kids Workshop: Fishing Game
Reel in the summer fun in our hands-on workshop where you and your child can build a fishing game while tackling educational and developmental skills. Once your fishing game is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. Recommended Ages: 5-12. All Kids Workshop attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. 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-11:30am: Twos Travelers at The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center: Monkeying Around
Are you ready for some monkey business? We’ll begin by learning about monkeys and some of their unique characteristics, and end our morning visiting Xu Bing’s Monkeys Grasp for the Moon that spans the three floors of the Sackler Gallery. The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center opens its doors on the weekends to local families. Their unique programs combine playful classroom activities with visits to nearby museums. Each program is developed especially for the age group and with a unique theme.

10:00am-1:00pm: Art Explorers at Glen Echo
Activities change weekly. Drop in for a 1/2 hour art project. No pre-registration; $5 per parent/child pair, or $8 for two children with adult. Parent/Child Drop-in Art Activities. (Most activities take approximately 30 minutes). Best for kids under age 10.

10:30am: Reel Fun at National Gallery of Art
Join us for fourteen short films from around the world—Mexico, Russia, Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, France, Lithuania, and the USA! With visually innovative animation, the program features the best from the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Approximately 60 minutes. For families with children ages 4 and up

Sunday

11:00am: Rocnoceros at Lubber Run Amphitheater
These three bandmates of Rocknoceros “grew up” (if they ever did) in Northern Virginia, and have been making award-winning music for the whole family since 2005. They have gained significant national recognition performing at the Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap. Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits and perform regularly at Jammin’ Java.

11:30am: Reel Fun at National Gallery of Art
Join us for fourteen short films from around the world—Mexico, Russia, Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, France, Lithuania, and the USA! With visually innovative animation, the program features the best from the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Approximately 60 minutes. For families with children ages 4 and up.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor: Little Rascals
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

Plan Ahead:
Open play in Little Loft‘s Sensory Room for 2-5 year olds and their caregivers. Sand table, rice table, light table, and a new interactive art project each week. No preregistration necessary. $8/visit, half price for siblings. Summer Hours:
June 18-August 24 (closed July 2-6) Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, 4:00-6:00pm.

July 10: Shakespeare in the Parks

Related Posts:
Outdoor Movies

Cool Off

Ice Cream!

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.

Memorial Day Weekend in and around Washington, DC 2018

May 25, 2018

With the holiday weekend among us, we’ve chosen a few well-known picks that pay tribute to Memorial Day in addition to some familiar events. We’ve also put together a short list of suggested day trips that won’t keep you and your family in the car too long but will get you “away”. An obvious and free pick is to visit the various memorials along the Mall. Many events at Arlington National Cemetery can be found here. Info on Rolling Thunder can be found here.

Have you entered our current giveaways? A free month of classes at MOCO Movement? Tickets to see In the Clouds at Arts on the Horizon? Movie passes to see Adrift?

The Big Bounce America is taking over Washington, DC this weekend; 10,000 square feet of bounce fun.

And of course the kids haven’t let you forget the pools open this weekend. Here is a list of Washington, DC pools with hours and addresses. All outdoor pools and splash pads will open Memorial Day weekend and will operate on a weekend schedule through June 17.

Not a pool person? Let your child run around and splash in the spray parks or hit a waterpark (see the bottom of the list). A few sprays in DC are The Yards Park and Georgetown Waterfront Park and a list of spraygrounds in Arlington.

Friday

5:00pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
National Gallery of Art’s 2018 Jazz in the Garden lineup features acclaimed musicians presenting a wide variety of jazz styles—swing, funk, hip-hop, Latin, go-go, ska, Dixieland, blues, and more. Every Friday evening from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. through August 24, 2018, the Gallery will invite visitors to find a seat among the monumental works of art in the Sculpture Garden and enjoy one of the city’s favorite summertime activities. To date, more than 1,735,000 visitors have started their weekend off with the long-standing concert series. Pack a picnic or purchase food there.

6:30pm: Four Mile Summer Movie Festival at Four Mile Conservatory Building-Featured movie: Coco
Bring your friends, family and neighbors for games, giveaways, popcorn, picnicking, and of course, great films under the stars. Movies start at dusk and are screened with Spanish subtitles. We encourage moviegoers to bring chairs, because this year’s location will be on asphalt. Bring blankets, outdoor games, and picnic coolers when the fun starts at 6:30 pm.

Saturday

10:00am: Kids Can Cook at Frying Pan Park
Programs at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Create a healthy snack with food straight from Kidwell Farm. Participants get to harvest tasty treats from the garden and learn fun ways to put them together to make kid-friendly dishes. Children must be accompanied by an adult registered in the program.

11:00am-3:00pm: DC Duck Race
The 3rd annual D.C. Duck Race is at The Yards Park along the Anacostia River. This fun event and festival brings the community together in support of local non-profits and organizations and is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Washington, D.C. through a collaboration with the Capitol Riverfront BID. The race will begin at 2 PM!

9:00am-5:00pm: Strawberry Jubilee Festival at Great Country Farms is the longest running strawberry festival in Loudoun County. To celebrate the royal strawberry, our Jubilee is packed with live music, farm contests, wagon rides, a visit from the Strawberry Princess, great food and fun games for the whole family! (Taking place on Sunday also).

10:00am-5:00pm: Delaplane Strawberry Festival allow you to enjoy hayrides, old fashioned field games, dancing, music, magic, storytelling, crafts, a petting farm, bake sale, hikes in the shadow of the Appalachian Trail, face painting, cake-walking, Corn Hole, a monkey and much more! (Taking place on Sunday also).

Sunday

2:00pm: National Memorial Day Parade
The National Memorial Day Parade, held annually along Constitution Avenue in our nation’s capital – Washington, DC – shares the story of American honor and sacrifice from across the generations. The parade, commemorating its fourteenth year, is our nation’s largest Memorial Day event, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators to the National Mall to pay tribute to those who have served, are serving, and most importantly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in service to our country.

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor- Featured movie: The Lego Batman Movie
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. A schedule of movies to be shown can be viewed below. (They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm.)

8:00pm-9:30pm: National Memorial Day Concert
Saturday’s dress rehearsal is also always open to the public. The gates open at 5:00pm and the concert begins at 8:00pm.

Day (or overnight) trips-

Shenandoah National Park

North Shore Beach

Harpers Ferry

Luray Caverns

Outdoor movies this summer in Washington, DC

May 21, 2018

Bring your blankets or chairs (check websites for what they prefer), some snacks and cozy up to a summer movie outside. Disclaimer: This is a list of child friendly and a few adult friendly movies. As you will see some of these don’t begin until sunset so perhaps it’s a late summer evening for some kids or a date night for parents. Have fun watching some free movies this summer.

Bethesda Outdoor Movies
(Woodmont Triangle, Corner of Norfolk & Auburn Avenues)

Enjoy five nights of blockbuster hits at downtown Bethesda’s 14^th annual outdoor movie series! Show times begin at 9pm at the corner of Norfolk and Auburn Avenues.A limited number of chairs will be provided and attendees are invited to bring their own lawn chairs. Admission is FREE! Spend an enjoyable evening in Woodmont Triangle and have dinner at one of the neighborhood’s delicious and diverse restaurants before the show!

July 24: Remember the Titans
July 25: Casablanca
July 26: The Big Sick
July 27: Mean Girls
July 28: The Post

Union Market Drive-In
(1309 5th Street NE Washington, District of Columbia 20002)

$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?

June 1: Clueless
A rich high school student tries to boost a new pupil’s popularity, but reckons without affairs of the heart getting in the way. 1h 37 min, rated PG-13
Lot opens at 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 8:30, Film begins 8:45; Film ends at 10:20

July 6: Like Water for Chocolate
When tradition prevents her from marrying the man she loves, a young woman discovers she has a unique talent for cooking. In Spanish with English subtitles. 1 h 45min, rated R
Lot opens at 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 8:30, Film begins 8:55; Film ends at 10:20

August 3: Black Panther
T’Challa, the King of Wakanda, rises to the throne in the isolated, technologically advanced African nation, but his claim is challenged by a vengeful outsider who was a childhood victim of T’Challa’s father’s mistake.
2h 15 min, rated PG-13
Lot opens 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 8:15, Film begins 8:45, Film ends at 11:00

September 7: The Lion King
A Lion cub crown prince is tricked by a treacherous uncle into thinking he caused his father’s death and flees into exile in despair, only to learn in adulthood his identity and his responsibilities. 1h 28 min, rated G
Lot opens 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 7:30, Film begins 8:00, Film ends at 9:30

October 5: Cool Runnings
When a Jamaican sprinter is disqualified from the Olympic Games, he enlists the help of a dishonored coach to start the first Jamaican Bobsled Team. 1h 38 min, rated PG
Lot opens 5:30, Lot closes promptly at 7:45, Film begins 8:15, Film ends at 9:55

November 2: 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

NoMa Family Film Night 
(The Lot @ 1st & Pierce 1005 First Street, NE)

Bring your friends, family and neighbors for music, giveaways, food trucks, picnicking, and of course, great films under the stars. Movies start at sunset and are screened with subtitles. We encourage moviegoers to bring chairs, because the site is covered in asphalt. Bring blankets, frisbees, dogs on leases and picnic coolers when the doors open at 7:00 PM. Every movie is subtitled. NoMa Summer Screen has been ranked one of the Top 10 Best Outdoor Movie Theatres in America by Travel and Leisure Magazine and one of the top five outdoor movie series in the country by Travel Pulse.

June 6: Ten Things I Hate About You (PG-13) | 8:40 p.m.
June 13: Mulan (G) | 8:44 p.m.
June 20: Chicago (PG-13) | 8:46 p.m.
June 27: Mad Max: Fury Road (R) | 8:47 p.m.
July 4: no movie on account of Independence Day!
July 11: Matilda (PG) | 8:44 p.m.
July 18: A League of Their Own (PG) | 8:40 p.m.
July 25: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (PG-13) | 8:35 p.m.
Aug 1: Pitch Perfect (PG-13) | 8:29 p.m.
Aug 8: Moana (PG) | 8:21 p.m.
Aug 15:Thelma & Louise (R) | 8:12 p.m.
Aug 22: Ghostbusters (2016) (PG-13) | 8:03 p.m.
Aug 29:Wonder Woman (PG-13) | 7:52 p.m.
Sept 5: rain date | 7:42 p.m.

Adam’s Morgan Movie Nights
(Walter Pierce Park is located at 2630 Adams Mill Rd. with an alternate entrance adjacent to Mama Ayesha’s near the foot of the Duke Ellington Bridge on Calvert Street)

Movies begin approximately 30 minutes after sunset. Kids are welcome, but please no pets or alcohol. Please check the Movie Nights Facebook Page for cancellation information in the event of bad weather. Important: No glass bottles, no alcohol, no smoking, and no pets.

May 22: The Big Lebowski
May 29: Hairspray
June 5: Jackie
June 12: Hidden Figures
June 19: Pixar Shorts

Four Mile Summer Movie Festival at Four Mile Conservatory Building
(4109 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305)

Bring your friends, family and neighbors for games, giveaways, popcorn, picnicking, and of course, great films under the stars. Movies start at dusk and are screened with Spanish subtitles. We encourage moviegoers to bring chairs, because this year’s location will be on asphalt. Bring blankets, outdoor games, and picnic coolers when the fun starts at 6:30 pm.

May 25: Coco
June 29: Mary Poppins
July 27: Wonder
August 31: Space Jam

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! Please note that movies will begin at 6:00pm and will be shown once, so end times may vary with each movie. A schedule of movies to be shown can be viewed below. They also feature Date Night Movies on Thursdays at 7:00pm.

May 20: Cars 3
May 27: The Lego Batman Movie
June 3: Matilda
June 10: Bolt (National Harbor 10 Year Anniversary Commemorative Giveaway for the first 100 people!)
June 17: Zookeeper
June 24: Charlotte’s Web (2006)
July 1: Enchanted
July 8: The Little Rascals
July 15: Alice Through the Looking Glass
July 22: Holes
July 29: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Aug 5: Maleficent
Aug 12: The Little Mermaid
Aug 19: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
Aug 26: Annie (2014)
Sept 2: A Wrinkle in Time
Sept 9: The Wizard of Oz
Sept 16: The Wiz (1978)
Sept 23: Moana
Sept 30: The Lion King

Cinema Del Ray
(Mount Vernon Rec Center: 2017 Belle View Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22307)

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)

May 19: The Lion Kind
June 16: The Lego Batman Movie
July 21: Toy Story 3
Aug 18: Cars 3
Sept 15: Coco

Comcast Xfinity Outdoor Film Festival
(10701 Rockville Pike N. Bethesda, MD 20852)

Outdoor movies return to Strathmore this summer! Join us on the lawn for 4 nights of free flicks benefiting the National Institutes of Health Children’s Charities. Come early to stake out your spot, enjoy pre-show activities, and grab dinner from Ridgewells’ summer grill. Films begin at dusk. Activities begin at 7:30pm. No tickets needed.

Aug 23 :Coco
Aug 24: Black Panther
Aug 25: The Lion King
Aug 26: Wonder Woman

Canal Park
(Canal Park, at 2nd and M St., SE- Navy Yard Metro)

See the stars beneath our stars! The Capitol Riverfront Outdoor Movie Series returns to Canal Park this year from June through August. Each movie in this year’s lineup, selected and inspired by public demand, will begin at sundown. We invite movie-goers to arrive at Canal Park as early as 7:00 pm, bring a picnic, and enjoy the show! Please note that all movies are captioned.

Weekend Picks: August 25-27, 2017

August 24, 2017

Cirque du Soleil OVO is in Baltimore through Sunday at Royal Farms Arena. OVO is teeming with life. Insects work, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy in motion. Their home is filled with biodiversity, beauty, action and moments of quiet emotion. The awestruck insects are intensely curious when a mysterious egg appears, representing the enigma and cycles of their lives. Tickets start at $48 and the show is family-friendly and full of colorful costumes and magnificent moves including juggling, acrobatics and trampolines!

Comcast Outdoor Film Festival returns to Strathmore this summer! Join on the lawn for free family favorite flicks benefiting the NIH Children’s Charities. Fri. August 25 – Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (PG-13). Sat. August 26 – The Lego Batman Movie (PG). Gates open to public at 7:30pm and the movie will begin at dusk. Event is FREE! Popcorn and other summer favorites from Ridgewells available for purchase. Picnics are also welcome.

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.

Friday-

5:00pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Garden
(Constitution Avenue and Madison Drive entrances at 9th Street, NW Washington, DC)
Jazz In The Garden at Pavilion Café in the National Gallery of Art features an eclectic mix of jazz is performed by top Washington-area artists. During jazz concerts, the Pavilion Café offers a special menu of creative American cuisine and refreshments, including a beer and wine menu.

6:30pm-8:30pm: Friday Night Concert Series at Capitol Riverfront
(355 Water St SE)
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 7th Season, this year back on the Yards Park boardwalk! 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-

8:30am-5:00pm: 4th Annual Capital Dragon Boat Regatta
(600 Water St SW)
The Capital Dragon Boat Regatta returns to the Washington DC SW Waterfront for its 4th year. The regatta aims to provide an excellent dragon boating experience to both athletes and spectators alike. This one day event will feature premier and festival racing in the heart of Washington DC. Stop by and check out the action. Parking is available in various surface lots around the area in addition to metered parking along M St.

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.

11:30am-3:00pm: Military Appreciation Day at the Portrait Gallery
(8th St NW & F St NW)
Join us in recognizing and honoring our armed forces veterans with a program for the whole family. Create art, learn about American heroes, design your own exhibition, have your photo taken and tap your toes to live music in the courtyard.

12:00pm-6:00pm: 17th Street Festival
(17th Street NW from P Street to R Street, NW)
Since 2010, the 17th Street Festival celebrates 17th Street and its diversity of restaurants and retailers. The festival features an entertainment stage, including djs, dance troupes, bands, and drag performances throughout the day. There are 100 vendors, with more than 50 artists displaying everything from fine art to jewelry, ceramics to crafts, and every creative item in between. Other vendors include area nonprofit organizations, politicians, entrepreneurs, and local businesses.The kids zone has activities for children, including a moon bounce, ball crawl, face painting, and games throughout the day. The pet zone brings together pooches, and other four legged creatures, from around the neighborhood to shop or adopt a pet.

12:00pm-6:00pm: Arena Stage Community Day
(1101 Sixth Street, SW)
Arena Stage invites you to celebrate the American Voices that have shaped our country and our 2017/18 Season for a free event! Showcasing America’s cultural past, Arena Stage’s artistic present and Southwest D.C.’s culinary future, Community Day is fun for the entire family. Scheduled activities include: Live music • Aerialists • Dance performances • Face painting • Photobooth and Costume Trunk, Historic and cultural presentations • Storytelling • Poetry readings • Jugglers • Hand Balancers. Moving Stories Workshops, Arena Stage’s interactive literacy program for young students. Using song, movement, sign language and storytelling, we will explore “Zomo the Rabbit” through creative drama. Great food from restaurants on the Wharf and in Southwest including Mike Isabella’s Requin, Del Mar, Masala Art, Richard’s Place and Station 4.

Sunday-

10:00am-11:00am: Nous Bloombars
(3222 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001)
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
(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: Remember the Titans (PG)

(Photo: Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook at Adventure Theatre)

Theatre for this weekend:

Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook at Adventure Theatre has shows on Saturday and Sunday. The show was so popular they extended until August 27!

Circus! at Puppet Co. has shows on Saturday and Sunday with a Tiny Tots: Dragon Babies show on Sunday morning

Weekend Picks: July 7-9, 2017

July 6, 2017

Highlight: Art Investigators at National Gallery of Art
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. Children will receive a notebook to accompany the program. Each program is approximately 60 minutes. See dates and topics below. These free drop-in programs are designed for individual families on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no advance registration and space is limited, so please plan accordingly. This weekend: Investigate: Helen Frankenthaler Friday, July 7 at 10:30 and 12:00, Saturday, July 8 at 10:30 and 12:00, Sunday, July 9 at 11:30 and 1:00 & Monday, July 10 at 10:30 and 12:00

Wrapping up: The 2017 Smithsonian Folklife Festival is on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between Seventh and Twelfth streets and in the Arts and Industries Building. The free festival wraps up on Sunday. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with evening dance parties at 5:30 and circus performances most nights at 7 p.m.

Friday-

6:30pm-8:30pm: Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert at Yards Park
(355 Water St SE)
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 7th Season, this year back on the Yards Park boardwalk! 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-

(Photo:Sound Scene X at Hirshorn Museum by Carpe Diem!)

10:00am-5:00pm: Sound Scene X at Hirshorn Museum
(700 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20560)
The sounds of our politically-driven town are often dissonant. Underneath the political noise, the audio culture of DC is rich and varied. Sound Scene X: “Dissonance” will showcase the sounds of our creative city through – interactive audio installations – headphone listening – live music and more. Audio features will be accessible to deaf as well as hearing audiences through full-body listening installations and new works to feature multi-sensory tools to enhance the listening experience for all guests. ASL interpreters will be on-site.

10:00am: Story time with Washington Nationals Player
Join DC Public Library for a special story time with Washington Nationals outfielder Adam Eaton at Tenleytown Library and pitcher, Matt Albers at Woodridge Library. Click here to learn more about Summer Reading or stop by your neighborhood library to sign up today.

10:00am-4:00pm: The “Write” Stuff Family Research & Literacy Day at National Archives
(Boeing Learning Center & William G. McGowan Theater Washington, DC)
Do you love reading, learning new things and writing? Do you want to learn more about what it is like to do research and write stories? This is the program for you! Bring the whole family and enjoy hands-on activities and engage with authors and illustrators Marty Rhodes Figley, Syl Sobel, John Hendrix, Janet Macreery, Diane Kidd & Dr. Margaret A. Weitekamp, Tim Grove, and Tonya Bolden. You will also get to watch a live recording of the “Book Club for Kids” podcast with host Kitty Felde; celebrity guest reader, NPR special correspondent Susan Stamberg; and students from the Girlfriends Book Club Baltimore. Discover literacy and research organizations and their available resources, view DC National History Day project finalists, and more!

10:30am: Silk Road Dance Company: Shahnameh: Adventures from the Persian Book of Kings at Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
(1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA. 22182)
A magical bird, an evil dragon, a clever princess, and a valiant hero bring to life the Shahnameh, an ancient masterpiece written over a thousand years ago. With vivid choreography and ornate costumes, Silk Road Dance Company presents a fantastical tale from ancient Persia.

11:00am-10:00pm: Nextival
(Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds: 1450 Generals Hwy Crownsville, MD 21032)
The Nextival is a family Friendly Food Truck Music Festival with FAMILY, FOOD & FUN at the heart of our experience. We have 50 food trucks and vendors, 25 bands and performers, 10 Moon Bounces, 2 stages, 2 Helicopters for helicopter rides to downtown Annapolis and Back and 400 pounds of legos and duplos plus arts and crafts for the kids and fun outdoor games like Cornhole. Kids 12 and under are free, adults $15.

12:00pm: Silk Road Dance Company Workshop: Fly with the Simurgh! Dance with a Dragon! at Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
(1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA. 22182)
Two of the most memorable characters from the Shahnameh are the dragon and the Simurgh bird. Children will learn fun and “flighty” dances with scarves and veils, that are sure to conjure up the magical Simurgh! (Show tickets sold separately)

Sunday-

6:00pm: Annie (2014): 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! Please note that movies will begin at 6:00pm and will be shown once, so end times may vary with each movie.

Theatre:

(Photo: Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook at Adventure Theatre by Bruce Douglas)

Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure at Imagination Stage
Shows on Saturday & Sunday. Use code: GUITAR5 to receive $5 off tickets to this weekends show. Code expires at 11:59pm on July 7.

Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook at Adventure Theatre
Shows on Saturday & Sunday

Weekend Picks: June 2-4, 2017

June 2, 2017

Join us for the 37th annual Washington Folk Festival at Glen Echo Park, (pictured above) Saturday and Sunday, June 3 & 4, 2017 from 12pm – 7pm. One of the most popular events of the year at Glen Echo Park, the Festival attracts close to 10,000 visitors. Free to the public and held rain or shine, the Festival features over 450 musicians, storytellers, dancers, and crafters from the greater Washington area. Produced by the Folklore Society of Greater Washington in collaboration with the Glen Echo Park Partnership, the Washington Folk Festival is a celebration of this region’s rich cultural diversity. International performers share the music, dance, and cultural traditions they brought from their original homes while American performers showcase a variety of musical traditions that developed in this country.

At Jazz ‘n Families Fun Days in partnership with The Phillips Collection, DC JazzFest celebrates the synergy between jazz and the visual arts with performances by more than a dozen regional artists and rising star ensembles. This free, family-friendly weekend event will feature storytelling, unique meet-the-artist opportunities, an instrument petting zoo, art workshops, and more! Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-7pm.

Friday-

5:00pm-8:30pm: Jazz in the Garden in the Sculpture Garden
(7th St SW & Independence Ave SW)
It’s back and I couldn’t be more excited! Pack a picnic and head to the garden for an eclectic mix of jazz is performed by top Washington-area artists. Alcohol can be purchased at the garden but you can not bring it in yourself.

Gates open at 5:30pm, Movie starts at 9:00pm: Movie Nights in the Heights
(Harriet Tubman Elementary School- Irving Street near 11th St)
The movie will start when it gets dark. Set up a blanket and enjoy a picnic! In case of rain, wind, or a wet field, the movie will be moved to the Salvation Army at 3335 Sherman Ave. Movie: Space Jam

Lot opens 6:00, Lot closes promptly at 8:15, Film begins 8:45, Film ends at 10:20: Union Market Drive-In
(1309 5th Street NE Washington, District of Columbia 20002)
$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. Movie: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

Saturday-

9:30am-10:30am: Imagination at Noyes Storybook Parade

(10237 Carroll Place, Kensington, MD)
Children and adults are encouraged to dress as their favorite storybook character and bring musical instruments (including drums, triangles and cymbals) to march in the parade. Classic characters, such as The Cat in the Hat, Winnie the Pooh, and Dorothy and Scarecrow from The Wizard of Oz, will also be participating. The free event begins with the parade at 9:30 a.m. Lemonade and cookies will follow the parade, and the event ends at 10:30 a.m. The rain date is June 4. The parade will follow a short route that starts at Noyes Children’s Library.

10:00am-5:00pm: Strawberry Festival at Sandy Spring Museum
(17901 Bentley Rd Sandy Spring, MD 20860)
Sandy Spring Museum is gearing up for the 36^th Annual Strawberry Festival! This event has grown to over 6,000 attendees and is something you won’t want to miss! Taking place throughout the museum’s 7 acres along Route 108, the event features live music and entertainment, food trucks, a beer garden, and activities for children of all ages. Over the years the Strawberry Festival has featured a rock climbing wall, pony rides, a petting zoo, and much more! Purchase a wristband for unlimited kids activities. $10 ahead of time (place your order before 5 pm June 3) or $15 on the day of the event Click here to save money

10:00am-3:00pm: Imagination Bethesda
(Woodmont Avenue and Elm Street in downtown Bethesda)
Celebrate children, art, and all things fun at the 23nd annual Imagination Bethesda. Activity tents line the streets, face painters bring butterflies and pirates to life, a stage of live entertainment will have the whole street dancing, and more! Enjoy this FREE family fun day!

11:00am-3:30pm: Kalorama Park Community Day

(1875 Columbia Rd. NW)
Join us for the 2nd Annual Kalorama Park Community Day celebration! We are aiming to build on the success of last year’s event, this year with even more fun activities, entertainers, and local businesses and organizations. Meet your neighbors, try a new form of exercise, discover a local band, spend time with your family, and more. See you at the park!

Sunday-

12:00pm-7:00pm: Jazz ‘n Families Fun Days

(See above)

12:00pm-7:00pm: Washington Folk Festival at Glen Echo Park

(See above)