music – Page 4

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Live outdoor summer music in and around Washington, DC

June 7, 2018

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

The Yards Park Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 8th Season. Every Friday night this summer, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike. Also check out Kids in Canal: Making its second appearance in Capitol Riverfront, Kids in Canal is a 12-week series of kid-friendly entertainment every Wednesday 10:30 am – 11:30 am beginning June 6th! Bring your little ones to the middle block of Canal Park to enjoy magic shows, kids tunes, science demonstrations, and puppet shows. Top off your day with a refreshing splash in the Canal Park dancing water fountains.

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

LITTLE MISS ANN Thu, July 5
JOJO & THE PINECONES Thu, July 12
POSITIVE VIBRATIONS Thu, July 19
LUCKY DIAZ & THE FAMILY JAM BAND Thu, July 26

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

[Read more…]

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

May 18, 2018

Art + Play: A Community Weekend at the National Gallery of Art on May 19 and 20 from 11:00am to 5:00pm. Kick off summer with a festive weekend at the Gallery! Dance to Heart Stück Bernie, Batalá Washington, and DJ 2-Tones Jones. Create with local artist Rose Jaffe. Strike a pose in a GIF photo booth. Play classic board and parlor games with an artistic twist.

Dragons Love Tacos and other stories at Olney Theatre May 19 & 20. Dragons love all sorts of tacos – except spicy ones! When a boy throws his new dragon friends a spicy salsa taco party, red-hot trouble ensues. Best for Kindergarten-Grade 5.

Serbian Food Festival is back all weekend long. The 8th Annual Spring Food Festival is also dishing out delicious food this weekend at The St. Mary Armenian Church.

A few Parent’s Night Out events happening this weekend.

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?

Saturday

10:00am-6:00pm: Gaithersburg Book Festival
The Gaithersburg Book Festival is a celebration of the written word and its power to enrich the human experience. Our mission is to foster an interest in reading, writing and literary conversation. Complete with a Children’s Village. In the GBF Children’s Village, you will also find a literary sea of activities, workshops and performances brought to us by multiple sponsors. They are designed to engage and stimulate your child’s book curiosity and interest in reading and writing.

10:30am and 1:00pm: NSO Music for Young Audiences: Brass of Peace
Comprised of 13 D.C.-area high school students, one of the city’s finest young brass ensembles joins retired NSO hornist Sylvia Alimena to teach audiences all about how this family of instruments makes music out of metal and wind. Age 3+. Brass instruments make a BIG sound! But when Brass of Peace takes the stage, children might be surprised to see that these musicians behind this powerful playing aren’t much bigger than they are. Comprised of 13 D.C.-area high school students, this ensemble plays a selection of pieces that just might blow the roof off the Kennedy Center. Retired NSO hornist Sylvia Alimena conducts these concerts that bring together the city’s finest young brass musicians to teach audiences all about how this family of instruments makes music out of metal and wind. Come early for a Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo”- Starting one hour before the concert, hands-on activities let children get up close with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage.

11:00am-5:00pm: Powell Elementary School Carnival
We are excited to announce the Powell Padres 4th annual Spring Carnival! We’re looking forward to a Saturday filled with fun activities for kids and adults. Come out for music, food, and fun! All proceeds go toward supporting Powell Bilingual Elementary student activities.

Sunday

9:00am-10:30am: Breakfast with Bears at the National Zoo
Bring your young animal lover to the Zoo during the break in the rain this Sunday for “Breakfast with the Bears,” a preschool classes for 2-3 year olds and their adult buddy! 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! Please note that this class does not include any behind-the-scenes access or animal contact. Pre-registration is required. $28/child for FONZ members. $35/child for non-members. Registration fee covers one child with adult.

9:30am-10:30am: American Girl Tyson’s Corner Book Club
Calling all bookworms! If she likes to read, she’ll love our book club. We’ll discuss the second book of our 2018 Girl of the Year™, Luciana: Braving the Deep. Then we’ll talk about other American Girl books she is interested in. Afterward, girls will participate in a fun craft. Each girl will receive a goody bag, book, and magazine. This event is free but space is limited. Reservations required, For girls ages 8 and up.

10:00am-2:00pm: May Fair at Friendship “Turtle” Park
An amazing day of fun for the whole family, featuring giant inflatables, a racetrack, ponies, face painting, balloons, carnival games, cotton candy, snow cones, food trucks and more!

11:00am-5:00pm: Feria de Sevilla at Strathmore
The Centro Español de Washington, DC, is bringing a taste of Spain to Strathmore. Join for this free flamenco festival where you will feel like you’re at the fairgrounds of Sevilla. Listen to live flamenco beats, watch the intricate foot and arm work of passionate flamenco dancers, and taste a variety of Spanish tapas.Thanks to the event’s amazing sponsors, there will be performers on stage throughout the day and a variety of food tents. Outdoor Backyard Theater Stage and Mansion Parking Lot.

12:00pm-6:00pm: Ballston Give’s 31st Annual Taste of Arlington
The largest food+beer+music+kids+dog festival showcasing the diversity of Arlington’s food scene and attracting nearly 25,000 people.The exciting and highly anticipated festival transforms downtown Ballston into a family-friendly street festival with dining, music and entertainment for all ages. Taste of Arlington is located along Wilson Boulevard from N. Randolph Street to N. Lincoln Street.

5:00pm-7:00pm: Laser Tag at Rosedale Conservancy
Laser Tag is an exciting combination of tag and hide & seek. Players compete in teams to find and tag their opponents using high-tech laser blasters. Participants will have the chance to play in two or more 15-minute games. This event is perfect for adults and kids 8 years old and up. The game is best enjoyed by those who understand the concept and can play along. Pizza will be served.

Looking ahead:

Discounted rate on below sleepovers through May 25

Night Out at the Museum:
National Museum of Natural History Sleepovers

Sleepover guests will experience the museum through an interactive exploration of exhibit halls consisting of games, puzzles and challenges; exhibit-based craft projects; and sleeping under the museum’s giant North American right whale, Phoenix. Sleepovers at the National Museum of Natural History will be heldMay 18, June 1, June 29, July 6, Aug. 24 and Aug. 31.

National Museum of American History Sleepovers

Participants will solve a mystery of historic proportions during an interactive exploration of exhibit halls. When the devious diva Miss Rose steals six valuable objects from the museum, kids must discover what is missing before the evening’s end. Using their detective skills, they will collect clues to guide them to the crime scene. Along the way, they will take part in games, experiments and craft projects—and even become a presidential candidate. Sleepovers at the National Museum of American History will be held May 11, May 25, June 15 and Aug. 10.

National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center Sleepovers

Kids and their chaperones will explore the whole world of flight, from its pioneering days through the era of commercial aviation to the excitement of today’s space program. After they grab a flight checklist, they will take off for a night that includes plenty of games, art activities and close-up looks at some of the most historic and fascinating craft ever to take to the skies. Udvar-Hazy Center staff will be on hand to offer information and insights about the aviation treasures on view. Sleepovers at the Udvar-Hazy Center will be held July 14, July 28 and Aug. 18.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

May 4, 2018

Landon Azalea Fest lasts Friday-Sunday, 10am-5pm! Shopping, entertainment, auction, flowers, fun-land and more!

The National Cathedral’s Flower Mart is Friday & Saturday from 10am-6pm. An irresistible array of festival foods, children’s rides, artisanal and boutique gifts and, of course, herbs and flowers, once again fills the nave and grounds of the Cathedral at this year’s Flower Mart. Drawing locals and tourists alike since 1939, this festival of flowers and fun celebrates All Hallows’ Guild’s antique carousel—a fixture at Flower Mart for decades.

Saturday Song Circle & Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage can be found here.

Saturday:

10:00am-1:00pm: Truck Touch at Silver Spring Nursery School
This was my sons first ever truck touch (see above photo). The parking lot will be filled with vehicles of every kind that kids of all ages can explore, including: Police Cruiser, Rescue Vehicle, School Bus, Fire Truck and Ambulance, Animal Rescue Van, Moving Van, Dump Truck and more. Live music from Mr. Gabe & Rock Starts, food for purchase and silent auction. $5 per person, kids under age 2 free.

10:00am-4:00pm: Around the World Embassy Tour
Embassies will open their doors to DC visitors and residents Saturday, May 5, 2018. 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-11:00am: 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.

4:05pm: May the Force Be With You at Nationals Stadium.
First 10,000 fans receive a Star Wars themed pair of socks. Dress in your favorite Star Wars gear. Take a look at my guys last year (see photo).

Sunday:

10:00am-7:00pm: Monkey Joe’s Customer Appreciation Day
Monkey Joe’s locations nationwide will celebrate Customer Appreciation Day by offering $7 admission. Monkey Joe’s is a children’s entertainment center filled with indoor jumps, slides and obstacle courses. A destination that caters to both children and parents, Monkey Joe’s provides wall-to-wall inflatables, including a main play center and separate Mini MonkeyZone for toddlers.

Shows:
Judy Moody at Adventure Theatre plays all weekend long with some extra treasures! Saturday & Sunday at 11am & 2pm. During our Sunday performances this weekend, enjoy a stunning display of silver crochet jewelry – a treasure of one’s own. Take a necklace or set of earrings home in a specialty bag for Mother’s Day!
Free Event at 1pm on Sunday; an exclusive reading of the first chapter of Judy Moody & Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt.
Enjoy a Talkback with the playwright, Allison Gregory after the 2pm Sunday show.

Robin Hood at Imagination Stage plays at 1:30pm & 4pm on Saturday & Sunday.

Looking Ahead

Parent’s Night Out

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

April 13, 2018

Saturday

9:00am-11:30am: The Children’s House of Washington Open House!
Learn about the benefits of Montessori & see if CHOW is a good fit for your Bambinos.

9:30am AND 11:00am: The Town That Cried Avalanche at National Theatre
In preparation for Earth Day, The National Theatre is thrilled to host the World Premier of “The Town That Cried Avalanche”, an interactive play that asks: how do you balance progress and the needs of the people with taking care of our environment? Controversy rocks the tiny mountain town of Avalanche as the progress everyone craves threatens to shake up their lives and reduce their mountain to rubble. What should the town do – and how can anyone make decisions when everyone disagrees with each other? The play is performed by three actors onstage with help from everyone in the audience, who become part of the action as citizens locked in passionate debate at the Avalanche Town Hall Meeting. What will the town decide? What will happen? It’s all in the hands of the audience…and so’s the fate of Avalanche!

10:00am-12:00pm: National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
One of DC’s largest spectator events, the energy-filled National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC runs for 10 blocks along iconic Constitution Avenue. Giant colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers burst down the Parade route in a grand spectacle of music and showmanship seen only once a year during the Festival. From the National Archives to the Washington Monument, spectators are wow-ed by the pageantry and excitement that is the nation’s premier springtime parade. Standing along the Parade route from Constitution Avenue between 9th and 15th streets, NW is FREE and open to the public. Arrive early for the best views. $20 for grandstand seating.

10:30am: Matt Heaton at Jammin Java
Matt Heaton believes music for kids can be entertaining for both children AND parents. His songs are a mix of rockabilly, surf, american roots and Irish traditional music, delivered with a wry sense of humor and a sincere sense of fun. Children and adults respond to his musicianship and variety. The adults in the room particularly appreciate the Muppet-esque touches of humor and observations of kid behavior. Whether you call it children’s music, family music, kindie or toddlerbilly it’s sure to please listeners of all ages

10:30am-6:00pm: 58th Annual Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival
The Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is the largest one-day celebration of Japanese culture in the United States and is proud to be the grand finale of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Performers and vendors travel from all over the country and the world to Washington, DC to share their love of Japanese culture and traditions with the Festival attendees. The Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is excited to return to Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets, NW – anchored at the corner of 7th and Pennsylvania, Ave, NW.

12:00pm-3:00pm: Open House at My Gym Potomac and My Gym Bethesda
Join us for FREE fun and games at My Gym! Lots of fun play time plus great discounts on Spring classes and Summer camps and parties! Featuring: From 12-1pm – Ninja Warrior obstacle courses and free pizza – best for ages 3-10yrs. From 1-3pm – Free Face Painter and Fun – best for all ages.

2:00pm-3:00pm: DC Emancipation Day Parade
Parade along Pennsylvania between 10th St NW & 14th St NW

3:00pm-8:00pm: DC Emancipation Day Concert & Fireworks

Sunday

10:30am-12:00pm: A Family Celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut
Join us as we celebrate Israel’s 70th birthday by recognizing the range and diversity of its people and landscape. Through reading and activities, we’ll bring to life the charming and colorful world created by author Leslie Kimmelman in her book, Everybody Says Shalom. This program is best for ages 3-7, but the whole family is welcome! Cost is $15/family. This program is a collaboration of Literary Programming at the EDCJCC and Jewish Life and Learning in Partnership with PJ Library.

11:00am-2:00pm: Spring in the Valley
Car seat safety check with Safe Kids DC, Spring Valley Pediatrics, Stork Childbirth Education, moon-bounces, face paint and so much more (rain date: April 22).

1:00pm-4:00pm: National Symphony Orchestra Concert at the Zoo
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is thrilled to host members of the National Symphony Orchestra for a free, engaging musical performance for all ages. The National Symphony Orchestra will be performing two concerts held at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the Zoo’s Visitor Center auditorium, followed by Musical Instrument “Petting Zoos” at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Featured musicians include Jae-Yeon Kim (violin), Ko Sugiyama (violin), Tiffany Richardson (viola) and Sean Neidlinger (cello), Charles Nilles (bass) and Joel Ayau (piano). See details by following link for more details on how to get free passes.

Saturday Song Circle & Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage can be found here.

Parent’s Night Out THIS WEEKEND!

Mom’s Night Out to see I Feel Pretty on April 16 & April 18! FREE passes here!

Disney on Ice, Follow Your Heart is at Eagle Bank Arena through Sunday.

Robin Hood debuts on Saturday at Imagination Stage.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

April 6, 2018

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

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

Helpful information on the Cherry Blossoms can be found here.

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

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

Saturday-

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

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

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

10:30am-11:15am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
You and your child are invited to a fun, interactive musical experience! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist explores a popular children’s book with your family through song and musical instruments, and you will receive a list of all the songs to practice at home. The Little Engine That Could is the featured story.

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

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

Sunday-

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Fun-Day at Imagination Stage
We invite you and your child to bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. From Head to Toe is the featured story.

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