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Device free road trip activities and games for families

May 24, 2021

Memorial Day and summer typically mean people hit the road for vacation and this year is no exception as families may not be comfortable flying and many more will be on the road. We were eager to find some ways to occupy our kids in the car {as we plan our longest road trip yet} that invites them to put down a device for part of the trip.

Travel games: Scavenger hunt, License plate BINGO, Road trip BINGO, Guess in 10, STEM cube, 20 Q electronic game, fidgets and sensory toys

Crafts: Dry erase travel board, Wiki sticks, Vacation activity kit, No-mess glitter dot , Travel pad with a variety of games, Mess-free coloring and a Travel journal

Listen to family-friendly Podcasts and books on tape through Audible. I like to pop in my AirPods and listen to a book on tape on car rides– a bit of silence!

No need for anything–play old school games: I-Spy, 20 questions, Play the license plate game aloud, “I’m going on a trip/picnic and bringing…”, The alphabet game, Who am I? & Round-robin story telling are a few. Just google the names of them to get a refresher on the rules.

Rest stop games: Bring a ball to kick around, throw a jump rope in the car, play Simon Says and try to challenge Simon to be active

Create a playlist and have a sing-along. You can print some lyrics for kids who can read and they can sing the words.

Give your kids a camera to document their trip. Be sure to stock up on film. This also comes with a photo album they can just put the pictures right into.

Helpful to have: Car seat lap activity tray, Fill up this container with snacks, Kids travel pillow, Kids headphones that connect to each other, Travel Jane disposable urinal, Portable potty, Wet wipes, Organizer, Cooler & Tray in 1, UV Window shade

Related posts:
8 games to play in the pool + water play must haves!

Disclaimer: This road trip list full of essentials and games and contains affiliate links, which means that should you click any of the links and make a purchase I may get a small commission at absolutely no cost to you.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

March 16, 2018

Weekend Shows-

Ballonacy at Imagination Stage debuted last weekend and is showing through April 8 for ages 1-5. The story of a lonely man who is revived by a visit from a red balloon is reminiscent of the silent films of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. The playwright has imagined the man as an older version of the boy in the movie The Red Balloon, now grown up and grown old, having forgotten his youthful adventure. The red balloon returns to rescue its boy!

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day at Adventure Theatre

The Princess & The Pauper: A Bollywood Tale at Imagination Stage

Circulo/Circle at Encore Stage and Theatre

Big Apple Circus at National Harbor

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:00am: Saturday Morning at National Theatre: Shakespeare For The Young: The Tiniest Tempest
Shakespeare For The Young’s The Tiniest Tempest is an interactive puppet show for families. Four puppeteers bring the characters of Miranda and Prospero, Antonio and Alonso, as well as Caliban and Ariel to life with their story of hurt, love, revenge, and forgiveness. Large-bodied puppets, shadow puppets, and actors bring this story to life. FREE

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.

10:00 – 11:30 am: Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center: Family Workshop Two’s Travelers
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. Spaces Available, Two’s Travelers: Riding in My Car. Buckle your seatbelts, it’s time to go for a ride! Through experimentation, our engineers will discover why wheels are circle shapes, and how they makes cars go. We’ll end the class looking at some classic cars at the National Museum of American History.

11:00am-2:00pm: Kids in the Castle at Heurich House
A suit of of armor, woodcarvings of animals & magical beasts, towering ceilings. For children, the Heurich mansion is a magical castle to explore. Held every few months, Kids in the Castle is a free event that encourages kids and their families to wander through the house at their own pace, complete photo scavenger hunts to win prizes, and take a more detailed self-guided tour if they desire. During the warmer months, families can also relax and play games in the Castle Garden. (A limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Guests may arrive at the museum anytime between 11am and 2pm. Touring through the house will take between 30 minutes and 1 hour.)

12:00pm AND 4:00pm: Alice in Wonderland presented by Metropolitan Ballet Theatre shown at Robert Parilla Performing Arts Center
You’ll watch curious young Alice’s adventures through Wonderland with mischievous and comical characters such as the White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, and the Queen of Hearts. A family-friendly event for all ages!

3:00pm: GALita: Volcanoes- Cuentos de El Salvador at GALA Hispanic Theatre
Treat your children to this joyful bilingual play with music, songs, dance, and poetry. Written and directed by Cornelia Cody, VolcanO – Tales of El Salvador is a fun journey that navigates the immigrant experience through the legend of the cadejos, the magic dogs of the volcanoes that protect Salvadorans from danger at home and abroad. $10 children/$12 adults

4:00pm-6:00pm: Community Festival at THEARC
Levine Music is proud to present Community Festival at THEARC – a series of 3 events with free music, food, and fun for the entire family! Come enjoy a festival to celebrate the community around our DC Campus: THEARC! Each event is free and will feature an incredible music performance by local DC artists. The Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra began in April 2010 at the historic Bohemian Caverns. Each week until the club’s closing in March 2016, the 17-piece big band held its Monday night residency featuring some of the finest talent in Washington DC. Classic music from the likes of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Stan Kenton and Gil Evans was augmented by collaborations with Miho Hazama, Oliver Lake, Elliott Hughes, Nathan Parker Smith, and a large book of arrangements by band members Leigh Pilzer and Dan Roberts.

(Photo: Levine Music)

Sunday-

10:30am-11:30am: Meet the Illustrator at Solid State Books
Join illustrator Isabel Roxas, The Littlest Viking for a creative story time, live drawing demo, and signing of her newest book. This event is FREE. RSVP on Facebook.

11:00am-4:00pm: Maker Faire NoVa at George Mason Univeristy
Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects. They call it the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth – a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. Glimpse the future and get inspired!

1:30pm: St. Patrick’s Day Parade (+ Fun Dog Show) in Alexandria
Visitors and residents are invited to don their green and line King Street in Old Town Alexandria. Participants will include Irish dancers, bands, community groups and more. Parade-goers come early for the Fun Dog Show on Market Square. This year’s fun dog show benefits the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria and features costumed dogs competing in a range of categories, including Best Human/Canine Look-Alike, Most Talented and Most St. Paddy’s Spirit. Each of the winners will receive a 2018 “Pet” Troy Award Trophy, in honor of this year’s Grand Marshalls, Pat and Bernadette Troy. The dogs will then kick off the parade.

3:30pm-4:30pm: Toddler & Me Yoga at Yoga District (Columbia Heights Location)
Designed for crawlers to walkers up to around 24 months; come move, sing, and play with your tot to boost social and physical development, meet others families, and get out of the house between nap time and dinnertime. Grown-ups can expect lots of participation, some gentle adult yoga movement, an opportunity to bond, and a chance to learn from your natural little yogis; all loving adults are welcome (parents, grandparents, other caregivers). NOTE: SPACE IS LIMITED – PREREGISTRATION STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. MATS PROVIDED.

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

February 23, 2018

It’s the weekend of Parents Night Out at various kid places. See our blog post from earlier this week on where your child can be entertained while you are out for the evening. A win/win for all!

The Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival is back– February 22 – March 11, 2018 and is about presenting excellent art in all its forms that inspires a community to connect and create a vibrant neighborhood, city, and world. Now in its 9th season, INTERSECTIONS is a key layer in DC’s dynamic arts scene. New this year, a workshop series and an expanded Youth Summit – a full day of performances by young people followed by a youth-led summit. Here are a few free family fun days to check out.

The beloved garden gnomes from GNOMEO AND JULIET are back for a whole new adventure in London. When Gnomeo and Juliet first arrive in the city with their friends and family, their biggest concern is getting their new garden ready for spring. However, they soon discover that someone is kidnapping garden gnomes all over London. When Gnomeo and Juliet return home to find that everyone in their garden is missing – there’s only one gnome to call… SHERLOCK GNOMES. The famous detective and sworn protector of London’s garden gnomes arrives with his sidekick Watson to investigate the case. The mystery will lead our gnomes on a rollicking adventure where they will meet all new ornaments and explore an undiscovered side of the city. A few events taking place to get audiences excited for the event are on Friday, February 23^rd at Alexandria Public Library for a Scavenger Hunt 11:00am-11:40am and Saturday, February 24^that Hooray for Books from 1:00-2:00pm. The SHERLOCK GNOMES costume character will be making his way around DC

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:00am: Stephen Christoff at National Theatre
In celebration of President’s Day, come sing songs from the Colonial period with Mr. Christoff. This musical history program brings to life the ballads and song lyrics that helped build American independence and define a nation. He will captivate families with the jaws harp, banjo, guitar, mandolin, hand whistle, the musical saw, and even the bottles. The Colonial times were filled with music and Mr. Christoff explores the fun.

10:00am-2:00pm: Hirshhorn: Art Pop-Up + Library Program
Check it out! Find our cart in the galleries and check out a fun kit full of our favorite finds for kids. Each kit is an art meets reading adventure, with a special theme, children’s book, suggested artworks for viewing, and hands-on art making materials.

10:00am-4:00pm: Family Day: Chinese Lunar New Year at GW Museum & Textile Museum
Celebrate the year of the dog at the museum! Enjoy music performances by GW’s Chinese Music Club, create colorful zodiac animals from paper, and design your own jewelry inspired by the traditions of China’s Guizhou Province. Visit the galleries to see the exhibition Vanishing Traditions: Textiles and Treasures from Southwest China during its opening weekend. Visitors can also explore our new hands-on learning center, Textiles 101, which introduces the basics of textile making through fiber, color, and structure. All ages welcome.

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. Toot Toot Beep Beep is the featured story.

11:00am-12:00pm: The Magic of Spying: Tradecraft Trickery
In the real-life world of espionage, spies often call upon the art of magic and illusion to distract the enemy, make evidence disappear, and escape unnoticed. Join professional magician, Peter Wood, as he demonstrates the art of misdirection, sleight of hand, and other illusions used by skilled spies. This one of a kind performance, custom-designed for the Spy Museum, is guaranteed to fascinate children and adults alike. $10

(Photo: Hirshhorn: Art Pop-Up + Library Program)

Sunday-

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
Bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Caps For Sale is the featured story.

1:00pm-2:30pm: Preschool Pioneers at Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center
You don’t have to be an expert to expertly look at a painting. This class will engage your child by encouraging them to look, respond, and ask questions through multiple careful looking techniques. We will even get to sketch in the galleries! Do You See What I See? is the theme for this 3-5 year old class. Read our review of this amazing program here.

1:00pm: Disney Live at Eagle Bank Arena
Open the door to reveal unforgettable Disney moments and grand illusions with Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box; and the dazzling stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know who might join in the fun.

2:30pm-3:30pm: Family Literacy Fiesta: Dancing Our Way Through Books at Wheaton Interim Library
In our FREE Literacy Fiesta programs, kids and adults join together in a celebration of books and stories! In our February Fiesta, we’ll explore a kid-friendly folk tale through creative movement and dance. Kids get to practice reading skills while moving, dancing, and sharing stories with our families and friends. What a fun way to dance away the winter blues! 45 minutes, best for ages 3 and up.

Weekend Theatre:

Encore Stage & Studio—Theatre by Kids, for Kids! presents Disney’s The Lion King Jr.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day at Adventure Theatre

The Princess & The Pauper: A Bollywood Tale at Imagination Stage

Giveaway to Discovery Theater Tot Rock show!

Don’t mind a drive to Baltimore? Head to Port Discovery Children’s Museum. We went a few weekends a go and had a blast! A few events happening there this weekend:

Chinese New Year: Year of the Dog | Saturday, February 24 | 10AM – 5PM
Celebrate the Year of the Dog as Port Discovery celebrates the Chinese New Year! Visitors of all backgrounds will learn, experience, and participate in traditions surrounding the Chinese New Year celebration. You’ll be mesmerized by the Chinese Lion Dancers of Tai Yim Kung Fu School, who perform the lion dance throughout the center of the Museum using a paper mache lion, instruments, and dance that will captivate you. Watch amazing performances of traditional and modern Chinese Dance by children, teens and adults from the Gina Ling Chinese Dance Chamber. Learn the art of calligraphy and chopsticks with the Xiamen Chinese Sister City. Plus, learn about animals with a live petting zoo from Wildlife Adventures, enjoy music and dance from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute Staff, and make festive art projects including Chinese New Year Lucky Charms, Festive Dragons, and more! Featuring a number of new art projects to enjoy while learning about Chinese cultures and traditions!

Super Sundays | Sunday, February 25 | 12 – 5 PM
Make it a true Sunday FUN-day when you spend the whole day learning through play! Explore movement and music together as you bop along to our lively Jingle Jangle Music Time. Join in interactive story times, and work together to create art or science projects that you can take home. Be sure to make music with us in the Percussion Garden, explore early literacy learning during Mother Goose on the Loose, and check out Kamishibai Story Time!

Weekend Picks: November 3-5, 2017

November 3, 2017

Color’s Garden: An Adventure with the Elements of Art at National Gallery of Art is inspired by the art of Henri Matisse, Color’s Garden is a play that celebrates the joys and discoveries of making a new kind of art. Come see for yourself: Saturday, November 4 at 10:30 and 12:30 and Sunday, November 5 at 11:30. Color, who dreams of making something new all on her own, leads her friends Line and Shape on an imaginative adventure. By working and playing together in new ways, the friends discover that art can capture so much more than what we see with our eyes. Featuring projections, playful animations, and a lively jazz score, this theatrical fantasy brings the elements of art to life and offers new understandings about their expressive power. Following each performance, families will be invited to make collages in our hands-on artmaking space and will be provided with self-guiding resources to explore the elements of art in the Gallery’s collection. For families with children ages 4 and up and approximately 45 minutes in length.

Kids Euro Festival wraps up this weekend and is bringing Europe’s most talented children’s entertainers to the DC metro area each fall. Full of free performances, concerts, workshops, movies, storytelling, puppetry, dance, magic, and cinema. With programs both for the general public and for school groups, more than 10,000 DC-area children and their families enjoy Kids Euro Festival programs each year. Schedule of events found here.

Fall Festivals can be found here, most are ending soon.

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 11:00am: Rainbow Puppets: The Really Big Dinosaur Show at National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004)
Imagine that rare dinosaur fossils could talk . . . what amazing stories they could tell! Well there’s no need to imagine as Rainbow Puppets presents a musical romp through prehistoric times including a dinosaur beauty pageant, a dancing T-Rex and a long-necked dinosaur who measures sixteen feet from the tip of his nose to the end of his tail. It’s not called “The Really Big Dinosaur Show” for nothing.

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-3:00pm: Family Day at The Embassy of Sweden (part of Kids Euro Festival)
(2900 K Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20007)
The Embassy of Sweden invites the whole family to participate in a day of creativity, imagination, and fun. Enjoy theatre, workshops, crafts and film screenings, swap toys with new friends and partake in a Swedish fika. Whether you join us for a few hours or for the whole day, come to play, perform, or take in a performance designed to engage kids and parents alike. Read more about our activities below.

10:00am-11:00am: First Studio: Story + Workshop at The Kreeger
(2401 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007)
Children are invited to use their imagination as they explore the paintings, sculpture, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each program includes a gallery tour, a story and a hands-on art-making experience. Adult companion required and art-making attire recommended. $10 register online. To get a glimpse into the program see my review here.

10:30am-11:15am: 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 the songs to practice at home. Giraffes Can’t Dance is the story.

11:00am: Saturday Family Story Session at Strathmore
(The Mansion)
Local storytellers teach kids how to weave narrative tales, instilling a love of learning with every word. Music, movement, art, and interactive play: it’s all about understanding other people, enjoying different cultures and boosting imagination and creativity. Recommended for ages 3–8.

11:00am-4:00pm: Write Now! at the National Postal Museum
(2 Massachusetts Ave., N.E. Washington, DC 20002)
In anticipation of Veterans Day, please join us in honoring past and present military personnel by celebrating the history and art of correspondence at the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum. This rich history is on display in our exhibition: My Fellow Soldiers: Letters from World War I, which brings back to life the powerful and heartfelt letters between family, friends and service members during the war. In addition, we have many wonderful activities for children and have set up activities for Girl Scout troops to get their “Celebrating Community” badge.

Sunday-

10:30am-12:30pm: Harvest Hoedown at Forest Hills Playground
(3200 Chesapeake St NW)
Abracadabra Alex will be the featured entertainer, doing his balloon animals and a highly-entertaining magic show for kids. Jackie from Cleveland Park Library will attend for story time, a fire truck visit and a dance party!! Costumes encouraged (kids and adults) for the annual parade around the playground. Kids get one more use before they grow out of it! Or wear your Harvest Hoedown best (perhaps some cowboy boots, flannel and a hat).

11:00am-11:45am: Sunday Funday at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Ave Bethesda, MD 20814)
Bring your favorite stories to life through dramatic play activities, music, movement, and visual art. Each session you leave with a special take-home item we used or created that day, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Featured story: The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig.

12:00pm-5:00pm: DC Art Book Fair at The National Museum of Women
(1250 New York Ave NW)
40+ tablers will be selling their books/zines/comics/prints/art/other cool things. Admission is free and this event is kid-friendly. This is also a Free Community Day and admission to the museum is free.

Extra, Extra!!

Caravan is giving away a gift card worth $20.00 – good for anything on their website to one lucky Beltway Bambinos reader. Tag a friend on Beltway Bambinos Facebook page for your chance to win! Winner will be announced November 10, 2017 so you have plenty of time to choose some holiday decor.

Movie ticket giveaway, to a PG rated movie, The Star ⭐️Comment on Facebook or Instagram with what activity you’re most excited about doing this winter with your Bambinos. 15 winners announced November 5, 2017 and will be given 2 passes.

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Weekend Picks: September 22-24, 2017

September 22, 2017

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

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

Maryland Renaissance Festival will be jousting and serving up lots of turkey legs for opening weekend! The festival is free to children 15 and under this weekend only. Take a time machine back to medieval times. With plenty of entertainment, including music, jousting, mazes, puppetry, pony rides, a huge pirate playground and so much more. Your children will see people dressed up in 16th century outfits. Dress like a knight and come participate or just watch! The Festival ends October 22 and is open weekends only.

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

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

9:30am AND 11:00am: Reptile World at The National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004)
Exotic creatures star in this amazing show! Michael Schwedick and his extraordinary animal friends not only teach kids invaluable lessons about the ecology, but also thrill them with up close reptile encounters. Adults will be awed by Michael’s ability to present alligators, snakes, and other sometimes scary creatures without frightening even the youngest children.

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

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

10:30am-11:15am: Saturday Song Circle at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Ave Bethesda, Maryland 20814)
You and your child are invited to a fun, interactive musical experience! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist explores a popular children’s book with your family through song and musical instruments, and you will receive a list of all the songs to practice at home. Activities in Saturday Song Circle are best for 1-3 year-olds but 4-5 year-old siblings and friends are also welcome to join in the fun. Featured book: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

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

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

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

Sunday-

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

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

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

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

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

6:00pm: Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor
(165 Waterfront St National Harbor, MD 20745)
Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor. Pack your picnic blankets, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages! Movie:Beauty & the Beast

Weekend Picks: May 5-7, 2017

May 4, 2017

Landon School invites you, your family and your friends to the 64^th 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-

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

Weekend Picks April 28-30

April 28, 2017

I love this time of year with all of the flower marts and pick-your-own farms opening. This weekend you can visit the Garden Fair & Plant Sale at The National Arboretum. The annual Garden Fair & Plant Sale features new, rare, and hard-to-find plants, garden supply vendors, books, children’s activities, refreshments, entertainment, and more. Bring your garden questions to National Arboretum staff members for expert advice. Sponsored by the Friends of the National Arboretum.
April 28, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm; Friends of the National Arboretum members only
April 28, 1:00 – 4:00 pm; Open to the public
April 29, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; Open to the public

This weekend (and next) is the long-awaited Day Out with Thomas at B&O Railroad. Little Engineers won’t believe their eyes–or their ears! Thomas the Tank Engine will be able to talk to his fans when he returns to the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore! Take a 25 minute train ride behind Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy a full day of live entertainment, activities, and family fun! Tickets are needed for ages 2 and up available.

Saturday-

10:00am-11:30am: Rock City Art Workshop at New Community ArtSpace
(614 S Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 (basement))
We are going to have fun recreating and decorating a city using broken sidewalk and other rock from construction sites in the neighborhood. Children are welcome to bring things they find in nature to help accompany their mini city. Paula Lantz paints using the energy of intense color and collage combined, the abstracted figures reflect mysteries in our personal, emotional and spiritual life. Ann Gordon‘s work reflects strains of classical American Realism through her passions of water, light, shadow, reflections, transparency, and translucence. She works in watercolor, oil paints, stained glass.Workshops for children ages 4-8. Caregivers are welcome to stay or drop off. Siblings of all ages are welcome (caregivers are asked to stay if child is younger than 4). Just inform us of their ages so we can tailor the project. Each workshop is $10/child. Consider signing up for all workshops for just $20/child.

11:00am-4:00pm: Carousel Day at Glen Echo
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
Our fun-filled annual event gets a new name this year. As many of you know, this festival used to be called Family Day, but Carousel Day better represents what the day is all about — celebrating our beautifully-renovated, historic Dentzel carousel and all the wonderful arts programs in the Park. The carousel will open for its 97th season in Glen Echo Park on Carousel Day! The event also offers a full day (11:00 am to 4:00 pm) of FREE activities for throughout Glen Echo Park, including live music & other performances, face painting, storytelling, and carousel themed crafts. The carousel operates from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., $1.25 per ride. Free performances from Storyteller Arianna Ross, Artivate’s Karim Nagi & Mark H Rooney, Culkin School of Irish Dancing, Ballet Petite and Columbia Big Band.

11:30am-1:00pm: Nibble + Squeak Brunch at Joselito
(660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE)
Proprietor (and Dad), Javier Candon, debuted Joselito to Capitol Hill this January as a homage to his parents who showed him that some of the best memories in life are created with family and friends over leisurely meals. We’re bringing the whole family to the table on April 29th for a Spanish style brunch to be remembered. Thanks to MommyNearest, kids eat from the same menu for free! Nibbles for the littles provided by Plum Organics!

1:00pm-4:00pm: Taste of 8th
Each Taste is a small sample size, similar to a tapas portion. Most people purchase a pack of 5 tasting tickets so they can sample their favorite 8th Street restaurants. Buy now to purchase at our advance purchase price of $20 for 5 tasting tickets. Day-of tickets will be $25 for 5 tasting tickets. Barracks Row restaurants will serve appetizer sized samples of their best-known or newest dishes. Watch over the coming weeks as we announce the participants in the 2017 Taste of 8th! This year’s participants include Ambar, Banana Cafe, Betsy, The Brig, Capital Teas, Cava, Cafe Kimchi, Chat’s Liquor, DCanter, District Donut, EatBar, Las Placitas, Lavagna, Matchbox, Medium Rare, Nooshi, Springmill Bread, Souk, The Sweet Lobby, The Ugly Mug, Trattoria Alberto, and Yes! Organic.

Sunday-

Plan ahead—

Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp has several shows this weekend at Adventure Theatre

The Jungle Book is now playing at Imagination Stage

Does your child have a business she already runs? Or an idea for a business he wants to start? We’d love to include your child in this year’s Acton Children’s Business Fair of Washington, DC, where children become entrepreneurs for a day. Young entrepreneurs, ages 6-14, may APPLY NOW to join us Saturday, May 13 on Connecticut Avenue in Cleveland Park. Spark your child’s creativity and see where it leads!

Paw Patrol Live!: Race to the Rescue at Hippodrome May 6, 2017, 10:00am & 2:00pm AND May 7, 2017, 10:00am & 2:00pm

Peppa Pig Live at Strathmore May, 2, 2017 7:00pm

Weekend Picks March 10-12

March 10, 2017

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:00am: Christylez Bacon – Human Beatbox at National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
Human Beatbox – Christylez Bacon, GRAMMY nominated Progressive Hip-Hop artist combines rhyming, storytelling and interactive call and response choruses with diverse instrumentation to deliver a message of cultural acceptance & unification blending traditional elements of musical styles from jazz to hip-hop. Tickets are free.

10:00am-2:00pm: Concord-St.Andrew’s Cooperative Nursery School Spring Fair
(5910 Goldsboro Rd. Bethesda, MD 20817)
Join the Concord-St. Andrew’s Cooperative Nursery School Community (CSA) for the first annual CSA Spring Fair! This family-focused event will feature fun activities for all ages. Rolling Brick pizza will be baking personalized pies on site and sweet treats can be purchased from the CSA Bakery. In addition, vendors from our favorite local sports, camps, and arts program will be on to showcase their offerings. Cost: $5/person and free for children under 2 -Performances by The Great Zucchini (11am) and Groovy Nate (1pm), Two bounce houses, Construction Zone” and “Bang and Clang” play areas, Face painting, Games and more.

10:00am: You & Me Song Circle with Imagination Stage at Avalon Theatre
(5612 Connecticut Ave NW)
You and your child are invited to shake, whistle, giggle, and wiggle in this fun, interactive musical experience with Imagination Stage! In this workshop, an Early Childhood Teaching Artist accompanied by a live percussionist explores a popular children’s book with your family through song, movement, and instrument play. Best for ages 1-5, but all are welcome! Tickets: $8 / $6.50 members.

11:00am-2:00pm: Kids in the Castle at the Heurich House Museum
(1307 New Hampshire Avenue NW Washington, DC 20036)
This family-friendly event allows visitors to explore the gilded details of the Heurich family home at their own pace. The first floor, second floor, and basement will be open for guests. The museum garden will also be open to play and relax in, after going through the house. Children and their parents are invited to wander through the house and complete a scavenger hunt to win prizes. No reservations are required for this event. Since opening its doors, the Heurich House Museum has had restricted access for children. This event, the first in a series of Kids in the Castle events throughout the year, allows children to experience the Heurich House Museum in a way they have not been able to before. Let their imaginations wander as they experience this unique piece of local history.

11:00am-12:00pm: Tom Teasley: A Journey Around the World Through Music at Glenallan Elementary School
(12520 Heurich Road, Wheaton, MD 20902)
Celebrate Music in Our Schools Month with Tom Teasley, award-winning percussionist, world musician and composer. Tom returns to Wheaton after dazzling Season One audiences with an inspiring cross-cultural musical journey around the world, weaving ancient musical traditions with modern technology. A unique performance not to be missed! Great for all ages and free.

3:00pm-5:00pm: Dr. Seuss on the Loose Dance Party at Kensington Town Hall
(3710 Mitchell St., Kensington MD 20895)
Dance, wiggle and giggle with Aaron Anderson of A-Squad Entertainment. Create crafty masterpieces and enjoy the Dr. Seuss Read-a-Thon Room. Don’t miss the Seuss-themed raffle. $5 per person, $20 max per family. All ages welcome (recommended for ages 18 months – 6 years). Please bring a book for our book drive for Crossway Community in Kensington. RSVP here.

Sunday-

9:30am-11:00am AND 2:30pm-4:00pm: Model Airplane Workshop at National Building Museum
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
Workshop details: Are you an aspiring aviator or a pilot with potential? Want to learn what keeps a plane in the air? Construct your own rubber-band-propelled model airplane and learn about aeronautics with the D.C. Maxecuters, then try a test flight in the National Building Museum’s Great Hall. Cost per plane/child: $15 Member | $20 Non-member. Ages 8 and up, adult assistance required. Adults do not need to purchase a separate ticket, unless they would like to make their own plane.

11:00am-4:00pm: Flying in the Great Hall at National Building Museum
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
Witness death-defying feats of aeronautics – well, model aeronautics, anyway – when the D.C. Maxecuters return to fly their model airplanes in the Museum’s Great Hall. The D.C. Maxecuters have been sharing their love of model aviation with the District of Columbia for over sixty years. Once again, the Maxecuters take-off in the Museum’s Great Hall, sending both rubber band- and electric-powered model planes soaring overhead. FREE, drop-in program. All ages.

PJ Library’s Sensory-Friendly Purim Celebrations

This event is being held in three locations on March 12–pick the one that is most convenient for you:
DC: Washington Hebrew Congregation (10:30 am)
MD: Congregation B’nai Tzedek Potomac (1:30 pm)
VA: Congregation Olam Tikvah (1:30 pm)

Does your child cover their ears in a crowd? Do they avoid loud noises? Do you dread the chaos of a large Purim story reading? Then this may be the perfect, authentic Purim experience for your family. Join PJ Library on for crafts, an interactive reading of the Purim story (megillah), with quiet areas to take a break, a mitzvah (good deed) project and treats to take home. Costumes encouraged but not required. Best for grades K-4. Fun for the whole family! $5 per family, plus bring a canned good to donate.

A few shows to catch this weekend include Nutt & Bolt and A Night at the Wax Museum and many more!

Keep in mind these upcoming events you may need to reserve a spot to attend.