yoga

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

April 27, 2018

The Georgetown French Market, one of the District’s most anticipated shopping weekends, marks the triumphant return of the spring season, this weekend beginning on Friday. Georgetown’s Book Hill neighborhood will transform into an inviting open-air market as the over 40 locally-owned merchants, restaurants, salons and galleries display discounted items and unique finds.

South Mountain Creamery Spring Festival is taking place all weekend long. All year round you welcome us them your home. This weekend, they’re welcoming you to theirs. There will be vendors, music, farmers market, food, games, activities, animals, hay rides and you’ll want to check out the milking parlor and take the production tour!

A few Parent’s Night Out events happening!

Saturday

10:00am-4:00pm: Ring in Spring with KinderCare
Union Stage is being transformed into a blooming spring pasture of overgrown flowers, exaggerated ladybugs and a sunny sky darted with clouds! Bring the entire family to spend a day with us and enjoy complimentary family portraits by Red Tricycle DC’s favorite family photographer, Stacey Vaeth, spring-themed activities for kids (6 weeks to 6 years), story time with Amy Mascott, of the famed teach mama blog, plus live musical entertainment! Before you leave, don’t forget to take home one of our favorite spring themed books, seeds for planting, and even schedule a tour at one of our KinderCare centers. Register above for a time slot.

10:00am-7:00pm: DC Chocolate Festival
The DC Chocolate Festival is a celebration of artisan and fine chocolate from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond! This event brings together over 30 chocolate vendors and thousands of chocolate lovers for a day of tasting, talking and learning. The morning block is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

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. Saturday Night at the Dinosaur Stomp is the featured story.

11:00: Ready, Set, Think at Chevy Chase Library
Walk before you run; think before you code. Calling all 5-to-7-year-olds and their families: Come play some games and learn about computational thinking skills. Computational thinking is not thinking like a computer, but understanding how to organize and interpret information in a way that computers can process. These skills are the foundation for coding and problem solving. Each participant will take home activity sets to keep the fun going. Limited to the first 16 families. Recommended for ages 5-7 with adult.

11:00am-4:00pm: Carousel Day at Glen Echo
The historic Dentzel Carousel will open for its 98th season in Glen Echo Park on Carousel Day! The event also offers a full day (11:00am-4:00pm) of FREE activities for throughout Glen Echo Park, including live music & other performances, face painting, a roving magician, and carousel themed crafts. The carousel operates from 11:00am-5:00pm, $1.25 per ride. See Judy Moody and the Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt at Adventure Theatre while you are there!

Sunday

9:30am: Power Mama Yoga at Little Bit Yogi
Adult yoga class with little ones roaming.

10:00am-5:00pm: KID Museum Spark Behind the Science Day
What sparks someone’s passion for science and technology? Is it a trip to a museum, an inspiring teacher, or simply collecting shells at the beach? At Spark Behind the Science Day, meet STEM experts and find out what drove them to pursue their careers. Then, participate in a variety of hands-on activities to find your own spark! Drop in anytime.

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. Dragons Love Tacos is the featured story.

11:00am-2:00pm: The Rumpus Room: A Family Dance Party
Welcome to the Rumpus Room, a daytime dance party for families, with sounds provided by DC’s top club DJs (who all happen to be parents themselves). Created by DJs who wanted to share the nightclub experience with their kids, the Rumpus Room adapts the club environment (think disco ball, lights, and of course music) into safe family-friendly fun. Get ready for a dance floor filled with little ones, parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. The soundtrack will be a family-friendly mix of dance hits and classics, all at a kid-friendly volume. We provide the shakers, hula-hoops, beach balls and other props. You come to dance.

2:00pm AND 4:00pm: NSO Family Concert at the Kennedy Center
In the spirit of a series of Young People’s Concerts made popular by Leonard Bernstein at Carnegie Hall, Emil de Cou conducts this delightful performance that explores the concepts of melody and rhythm. NSO Principal Second violinist Marissa Regni hosts and Emil de Cou conducts, with guest appearances by Christylez Bacon and Ben Folds. Come early for a Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo” in the Opera House Lobby. Starting one hour before each concert (1 p.m. & 3 p.m.), hands-on activities let children get up close with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage. The 2 p.m. performance is sensory friendly. Most enjoyed by ages 5 & up. Please note: everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Performance Timing: 1 hour, with no intermission.

Plan Ahead for Mother’s Day with some fun events:

Little Loft will have a spring photo shoot that will include be moms and kids. Kids draw portraits of mom at Little Loft, and Red Turtle Photography takes a professional portrait of mom with littles. Book your 15-min shoot for $95, $10 for second child, $5 for third+ for Saturday, May 12, 10:00am-2:00pm. Edited prints and digital files available for purchase — great Mother’s Day gift!

Nothing says love like a handmade gift from your little one. Red Panda Art Studio wants to help your child celebrate his or her wonderful mama by creating a fabulous gift (or gifts)! May 6 at the Little House at Westmoreland Hills Park from 10:00am-11:30am. Each child will have the opportunity to create a framed portrait of his or her mom, an Ikebana-inspired flower arrangement, a homemade herb planter, and more (we don’t want to give away all of the surprises here!). Geared towards ages 3 to 8. $35. Drop-off welcome.

Looking ahead:

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

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

March 9, 2018

Saturday-

10:00am: Blue Sky Puppet Theatre at Avalon Theatre
Blue Sky Puppet Theatre is back at the Avalon this winter! In “If Pigs Could Fly,” three 5th grade students join the school librarian for the 2nd grade story time. One 2nd grader, Rocky, says he doesn’t like books. The 5th graders proceed to show Rocky and his classmates how much fun reading can be by producing puppet shows from 4 world folktales books from the library. Tickets: $8.00 / $6.50 for Avalon members (Children under 2 are free).

11:00am: Saturday Family Jazz Session at AMP by Strathmore
Junior jazz aficionados spend Saturday mornings singing, playing, and preparing for a lifetime of music appreciation. Strathmore’s fun, creative, kid-friendly series features renowned jazz singer Rochelle Rice and multi-instrumentalist Seth Kibel. Recommended for ages 3–8. This weekends show: Jump, Jive & Boogie-Woogie with Daryl Davis
Explore the elements of boogie woogie music, starting from its roots when it was performed by soloists. Then find out how it was incorporated into popular music in swing orchestras, and the birth of rock ‘n roll. Led by pianist and AIR mentor Daryl Davis.

11:00am-12:00pm: Little Red Riding Hood presented by Wheaton Family Theatre at Highland Elementary School
Seymour Barab’s funny and sprightly one-act opera delights youngsters as we follow Little Red Riding Hood’s merry jaunt through the woods to Grandmother’s house. Join us for InterAct Story Theatre and Victorian Lyric Opera Company’s fresh take on this classic children’s opera…and watch out for that sneaky Big Bad Wolf! Best for ages 4 and up for this free event.

1:00pm-2:00pm: All Ages Family Yoga at Washington Yoga Center
Join Rhiannon Landesberg for a fun-filled all-ages family class, where we will move, breathe, dance, stretch and play yoga! We will practice traditional poses with an imaginative flair, as well as partner and group poses to encourage connection and fun for the whole family, while improving strength, flexibility and mindfulness skills for children and adults alike! Workshop is $30.00 for two family members plus $10 for each additional member.

2:00pm-6:00pm: Ireland on the Wharf
The luck of the Irish is headed to the waterfront with an Ireland on The Wharf festival! Celebrate the beauty and tradition of the Emerald Isle with bagpipers, a beer garden, Irish dancers, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities. And, of course, sip a pint of Guinness in honor of St. Patrick’s Day at Kirwan’s Irish Pub. Live music lineup:
2pm – 3pm: Aine O’Doherty Band (Donegal, Ireland)
3:15pm – 4:30pm: The Danny Burns Band
4:45pm – 6pm: The ShamRogues

Sunday-

10:00am, 12:00pm & 2:00pm: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Metropolitan Ballet Theatre
Want to meet the characters from MBT’s upcoming ballet, Alice in Wonderland, before the performance? You are cordially invited to join us at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party! Please call or click for tickets. These will sell out quickly! Each child needs a ticket; parents are admitted free of charge. This event is age-appropriate for children ages 3-7. Meet Alice and other characters from the ballet! Enjoy a mini-performance and a craft. Enjoy a sweet treat.

11:00am-12:00pm: STORYTIME at Hirshhorn
Why am I me? Why are you you? In this storytime, we’ll look closely at the work Five Day Forecast by Lorna Simpson, and examine our unique features through a read-alound of Why am I me? by Paige Britt. Following the story, we’ll play with shapes, lines and colors to create our own self-portraits. STORYTIME explores contemporary art through stories and movement. Museum staff will read aloud a book, introduce children to an artist in the collection, and lead a hands-on activity.

12:00pm: 48th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade of Washington, DC
The parade will proceed down Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets, N.W., in our Nation’s Capital. “Showcasing DC Irish Culture” was chosen as this year’s theme to celebrate local Irish-American leaders who have been instrumental in the promotion Irish culture throughout the DMV area and become leaders in showcasing Washington’s unique Irish heritage beyond the city.

3:30pm: Toddler & Me Yoga at Washington Yoga Center
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 naptime 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).

Many local theatre performances on stage this weekend.

Paw Patrol? Bubble Guppies? Check out some popular shows coming to our area.

Egg hunts and Easter fun!

Spring Break Camps!

Plan ahead for Smithsonian Sleepovers (they sell out quickly!!)

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 held May 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

January 12, 2018

Art Investigators at National Gallery of Art is back! 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.

These free drop-in programs are designed for individual families on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no advance registration and space is limited, so please plan accordingly. We will only accept sign-in for children in the age range for which the program is tailored. Groups cannot be accommodated in the program.

Saturday, January 13th AND Monday, January 15th at 10:30, 11:30 and 12:30 as well as Sunday, January 14th at 11:30, 12:30 and 1:30. Children will study Joan Mitchell this weekend.

Saturday, January 13, 2018

9:30am AND 11:30am: Sound Health: Second Saturdays at Kennedy Center
This new series of free workshops designed for families with children under the age of 8* explores the power of the arts to promote wellness of the mind and body. Every second Saturday of the month, local arts organizations offer two 45-minute workshops in the Kennedy Center Grand Foyer. YoKid: Enjoy a morning of family fun! The sessions will integrate yoga postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness exercises with stories, games, and songs. The YoKid yoga experience empowers participants to become self-aware, resilient youth who mindfully navigate life. Participants will learn and practice strategies to cultivate calm and focus through mindful play. No prior experience necessary. Learn more about YoKid.

10:00am-2:00pm: Michael’s Kids Club
They make, you shop! Kids 3 and up and can enjoy making a Snowman Page Marker. All supplies provided. Parent or guardian must remain on the premises. $2.00

10:30am: Jason Didner and The Jungle Gym Jam at Jammin Java
Jason and Amy’s performance for kids and their grown-ups is more interactive than ever! Act out the parts of a fire engine, shake an egg shaker, twirl a colorful dance ribbon, and catch the rock-n-roll spirit. This is a musical experience for the whole family to cherish together. This is the New Jersey-based duo’s 4th trip to Virginia to perform at Jammin’ Java.

11:30am-3:00pm: Tamayo Family Day at Smithsonian American Art Museum
SAAM celebrates renowned Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo and the exhibition Tamayo: The New York Years! Bring the entire family for a day of Mexican cultural performances, crafts, and art! Take a trip through Tamayo’s New York with a scavenger hunt, make your own cityscapes with vivid colors and geometric shapes, and use your imagination to create animals inspired by Oaxacan woodcarvings.

2:00pm and 5:30pm: Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at Warner Theatre

6:00pm-9:00pm: Kid’s Night at the Museum at Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum
Drop of your children for a night of educational play in our hands-on exhibits. We will provide dinner, dessert, crafts, an educational component and supervised playtime in our interactive gallery. KN@M is scheduled for the second Saturday of every month. Registration and prepayment REQUIRED. Children must be potty trained to attend. (Ages 3 – 10)

Sunday, January 14, 2018

10:00am-11:00am: Nous Bloomons
The Alliance Francaise is very proud to continue its partnership with BloomBars, bringing back a weekly music program for children. Nous Bloomons is a celebration of French language and culture through song and dance, led by Achille Ango. Achille grew up in Cameroon (Central West Africa). After graduating from High School, he went to France where he lived for seven years studying and playing music. He has taught French to children, and played music with various bands in the Washington area for more than 20 years. He now teaches French in an immersion school using music as a vehicle. If you want to have fun, dance, jump and sing “à tue-tête”, join us at BloomBars! $7 suggested donation per child. $3 per adult.

1:30pm AND 4:00pm: Charlotte’s Web at Imagination Stage (FINAL WEEKEND, also showtimes on Saturday)
In this beloved classic (now infused with live music!), Fern, a soft-hearted farm girl, forms an unlikely bond with Wilbur, a charismatic pig. At the Zuckerman Farm, Wilbur meets a silly goose, a moody sheep, a selfish rat, and Charlotte, a clever spider. In an effort to save her friend, Charlotte weaves flattering messages about him into her web that cause a sensation in the small town. Fall in love with your favorite characters all over again as they bring this “radiant” tale from page to stage this holiday season! Recommended ages 5+.

Monday, January 15, 2018

MLK Day Post with many ideas and events

Weekend Picks: December 15-17, 2017

December 15, 2017

Join Nats Winterfest, returning December 16 and 17 to the Washington Convention Center. Winterfest will again feature two days of fun! Activities include:

Clinics with Nationals players and coaches
Watch a Home Run Derby featuring the Nationals mascots
Make a snow fort, participate in the steal home challenge and take batting practice
Hear a winter or baseball-themed story, read by a Nationals player
Participate in the Kids Press Conferences
Sign up for 2018 season Jr. Nats Kids Club memberships at the Jr. Nationals Kids Club kiosk
Ride down The Slider, a giant slide reminiscent of a sledding hill
“Video Pitch,” where fans can give virtual batters their best pitch

Bring your young animal lover to the Zoo this weekend for “Meerkat Mania,” or “Monkey See, Monkey Do,” preschool classes for 2-3 and 3-5 year olds! Friends of the National Zoo preschool classes are designed for children ages 2-3 and 3-5 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. “Meerkat Mania” will run on Saturday, December 16 from 10:00am-11:30am “Monkey See, Monkey Do” will run on Sunday, December 17 from 10:00am-11:30am $28/child for FONZ members. $35/child for non-members. Registration fee covers one child with adult.

This weekend Greenberg’s Train & Toy Show is at the Dulles Expo Center. It is the largest and longest-running model train and collectible toy show in the country. The show is geared towards the general public and towards modelers and hobbyists, featuring hundreds of tables of trains and accessories for sale, huge operating exhibits, activities for kids, and more. All aboard!

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:00am: Bright Star Theatre: Holiday Songs: Music Around the World at National Theatre
Songs and stories come together for a truly magical wintertime show. Audiences will travel from Africa to Mexico and everywhere in between, while hearing a range of songs from “I Have A Little Dreidel” and “Auld Lang Syne” to “Away in a Manger,” “Sankta Lucia” and so much more.

11:00am-1:00 pm: Holiday Edition Art Making at Treehouse Atelier
Bring your school-age kids and take some time off your busy schedules to craft alongside your child during this special time of year. What a better gift than to create some holiday cheer with your children? Projects include: Gingerbread Wintery Mural (art), Make your own Ornament (craft), Create a Candy/Winter Wonderland world (craft) and Create a Nutcracker collage (art). Please note this Open Studio is geared towards school-age kids 4 and older. $25 per child with sibling discounts. Please register here.

1:00pm-4:00pm: From Our Happy Home Holiday Craft Program at National Portrait Gallery
Step into the 19th century world of Louisa May Alcott in this craft program for the entire family. Construct paper house lanterns and handmade books as you explore some of the ways people have created feelings of comfort and warmth in the cold winter months. Join Little Women story time to hear how Alcott’s heroines the March sisters celebrated the holidays, bringing literature and music together to light their home. This drop-in program will take place Saturday, December 16 in the National Portrait Gallery’s Education Center, E151, and Explore! children’s space. Reservations are appreciated but not required. Designed in collaboration with the National Building Museum; a variation of this program will take place on Sunday, December 17 at the National Building Museum. Visit their website for more information.

4:00pm: Family Yoga at LemonTree
Come enjoy an all-levels vinyasa yoga practice with your little one(s). Mamas (and papas) with kiddos are welcome to join us for this fun, interactive flow. Grown-ups and older children will move through poses while littler yogis sleep, play and/or explore in a child-friendly (and safe) environment. No prior experience is required. Please bring your mats and a playful attitude.

Sunday-

1:00pm-4:00pm: Family Afternoon: From Our Happy Home at National Building Museum
Construct paper house lanterns and handmade books as you explore some of the ways people in the past and today create feelings of home in the cold winter months. Investigate objects from the Museum’s House & Home exhibition for examples of interior lighting. Step into the 19^thcentury world of author Louisa May Alcott and discover how music and literature were brought together to light her homes during the winter season. Designed in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery; a variation of this program will take place on Saturday, December 16 at the National Portrait Gallery. Visit their website for more information. Free, drop in. All ages.

3:30-5:00 pm: Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas at Hooray for Books
Come meet Pamela Ehrenberg, author of the new PJ Library® book, Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas. We will have a book reading and signing, followed by crafts and vegetarian Indian snacks from Namaste King Street. You’ll get a signed, hardcover copy of the book!$25 for up to 3 people – includes signed book and Indian snacks; $5 for every additional person. Best for ages 3 and up. Brought to you by PJ Library Greater Washington, Federation’s Jewish Food Experience, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington andHooray For Books.

Holidays in Washington, DC

Weekend Picks: November 17-19, 2017

November 17, 2017

In addition to my baby girl turning 3 this weekend, there is a lot happening in our area. Find time in between prepping for Thanksgiving to get out to some of these once a year events!

Final weekend of The Adventures of Peter Pan at Synetic Theatre. Take flight to Neverland with Peter Pan, his Lost Boys and the Darling children! In this magical place filled with fairies, pirates, and mermaids, Peter Pan and crew will battle the delightfully sinister Captain Hook with acrobatics that will leave you on the edge of your seat! This production is recommended for ages 7+ for moments younger viewers may find frightening.

26th Annual Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show is taking place Saturday & Sunday on the campus of George Mason University. Demonstrations, Exhibits, and Door Prizes. Mini-mines for children to dig in and get free fossils and minerals. Over 20 Dealers with Fossils, Minerals, Crystals and Gems for sale.

The Junior League of Northern Virginia’s 17th Annual The Enchanted Forest will take place November 18-19, 2017, at the Westin Tysons Corner. The event will feature live entertainment, Kids in the Kitchen holiday activities, visits from Santa, a model train display, kids’ crafts, gifts for purchase, premium events for adults and kids, and a silent auction of more than 80 lavishly decorated themed trees and wreaths. The Enchanted Forest is your first opportunity to take photos with Santa, get a head start on your holiday shopping, and kick off your holiday season.

Friday-

6:00pm-8:00pm: Pike & Rose Tree Lighting
(11580 Old Georgetown Rd. Bethesda, MD. 20852)
Light up the Season! Join us for our Annual Neighborhood Tree Lighting. Enjoy: Holiday Music and Entertainment, Tastings & Food Specials, Seasonal Sales & Promotions, Giveaways & Prizes, LIVE! Ice Carving. Shop your favorite stores for the holidays including now open: H&M, Sephora, Sur La Table , L.L. Bean – and so much more! Save the Date for The Menorah Lighting: Dec. 18

Saturday-

9:30am AND 11:00am: Pinot and Augustine at National Theatre
(1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004)
Back by popular demand, family-friendly circus clowns Pinot & Augustine star in a show jam-packed with physical comedy. Bursting with melodic surprises from the ridiculous to the sublime, our clowns perform their own unique compositions with musical saws and an extra-special inflatable cushion!

10:00am-12:00pm: Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
(The parade steps off from Ellsworth Drive and Fenton Street and proceeds south on Georgia Avenue, ending at Silver Spring Avenue)
The streets are being overrun with turkeys, dinosaurs, penguins, and reindeer! No, the zoo hasn’t opened their gates – it is the Annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade! With marching bands, Bolivian dancing groups, floats, giant characters and balloons, and Santa, the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade is the only Thanksgiving Parade in the metro DC area.

11:00am-12:00pm: Wheaton Family Theatre presents Lesole’s Dance Project
(Glenallan Elementary School:12520 Heurich Road, Wheaton, MD 20902)
Dance your way to the tip of the African continent! Experience three different African cultures through dance, from traditional Zulu village dances through modern moves with a South African flair. Founded in 2003 by native South African dancer Lesole Maine, the company has performed to acclaim throughout the U.S. and locally at the Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap, Smithsonian and area schools. All ages and FREE.

12:00pm-4:00pm: Thanksgiving with the Turkeys at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary
(15200 Mt Nebo Rd, Poolesville, MD 20837)
Come celebrate Thanksgiving WITH the turkeys – join our friendly turkeys and all their friends in celebrating a cruelty-free Thanksgiving potluck. Please bring a vegan (no meat, dairy, or eggs) dinner or dessert item to serve 8. $10 suggested donation.

4:00pm: Family Yoga at Lemon Tree Playgroup
(2100 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009)
Grab the kiddos and join other mamas (and Papas!) for an all-levels vinyasa yoga practice. Grown-ups and older children will move through poses while littler yogis sleep, play and/or explore in a child-friendly (and safe) environment. No prior experience is required. Please bring your mats and a playful attitude. Online registration is available here. Please let me know if you have any questions.

5:00pm-6:30pm: CityJews PopUp: Havdalah! at Edlavitch DCJCC
(1529 16^th Street NW)
The traditional Havdalah* ceremony marks the end of Shabbat and can only happen when there are three stars visible in the sky. Explore the stars and our universe with a live planetarium show, cake-pop treats and crafts! We will end with the Havdalah ceremony, a lovely, multi-sensory experience.

7:00pm: Explore the Stars and Sky
(Meet in the field just south of the intersection of Military and Glover Roads NW, near the Nature Center. A parking lot is located immediately next to the field.)
Exploring the Sky is an informal program that for over sixty years has offered monthly opportunities for anyone in the Washington area to see the stars and planets through telescopes from a location within the District of Columbia. Sessions are held in Rock Creek Park once each month on a Saturday night from April through November, starting shortly after sunset. Beginners (including children) and experienced stargazers are all welcome-and it’s free!

Sunday- (Additional options in the introduction)

10:00am-11:30am: Toddler Trailblazers at Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center
(National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Avenue Lobby)
Explore the breathtaking beauty of autumn! We will go on a hunt for autumnal colors by looking both outside on the trees and in paintings in the National Gallery of Art. Ages 13 – 23 months, $43. Workshops offer a variety of hands-on experiences that introduce young children to concepts in engaging ways. Each class includes playful activities that are intentionally chosen to support your child’s development. Our learning extends beyond the classroom and into the museum and community where children and parents are encouraged to wonder and explore together as a family.

Weekend Theatre Performances:

Frosty the Snowman at Adventure Theatre- Nov 17 – Dec 31, 2017
(7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. 20812)

Charlotte’s Web at Imagination Stage- Nov 18, 2017 – Jan 7, 2018
(4908 Auburn Ave. Bethesda, MD. 20814)

Me…Jane: The Dreams & Adventures of Young Jane Goodall at The Kennedy Center- Nov 18, 2017 – Dec 10, 2017
(2700 F St NW)

Yoga with Bambinos

October 23, 2017

“Take my child to yoga with me? Ohm my God!” (See what I did there?! 😉 ) Others like the idea of exposing their little ones early, especially if that means instilling some yoga fundamentals into them. For me, finding a yoga class that I can bring my kids to means I can practice yoga and give my kids an opportunity to see me exercising which is important. Joining a yoga class with your child also gives them a chance to practice yoga and play around you while trying poses (even babies). And perhaps we’ll all go home a little more relaxed and zen. Here are some yoga studios that offer classes to parents and children together.

If you are also shopping around gyms here’s a few that offer childcare while you workout!

As always help us grow our lists; if you know of other great yoga studios and gyms to add to these lists please let us know.

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YoGirl Yoga
(3815 Village Park Dr, Chevy Chase, MD 20815)

Mother/Daughter Yoga as well as yoga for girls that empower them through yoga, meditation and self-awareness.
[Read more…]

Mom Picks this Weekend

May 11, 2017

Happy Mother’s Day to all!! We’ve found some fun things families can do together. And, in case you still need brunch plans for that special Mama here’s a list of some family friendly places.

All Fired Up offers 10% off to all Moms Saturday & Sunday at both locations.

Friday-

3:00pm-7:00pm: Jo Malone London at City Center
(996 I St NW)
Customize a cologne or candle with a beautifully engraved message. RSVP to attend.

Saturday-

8:00am-5:00pm: Mothers Day Weekend at Mount Vernon
(3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121)
Join the “Mother of our Country”, Martha Washington, for Mother’s Day weekend at Mount Vernon! Stroll through Mount Vernon’s magnificent gardens in bloom. Lady Washington will give lavender sachets to all mothers (while supplies last).

10:00am-6:00pm: Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
(Bethesda Woodmont Triangle, Norfolk Ave., between Auburn and Del Ray Aves., Bethesda, Md)
Delight in fine art created by 130 of the nation’s best artists, live entertainment and Bethesda restaurants. Children’s area will be on Auburn Ave.

10:00am-12:00pm AND 1:00pm-3:00pm: Children’s Ball at The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum
(701 21st Street, NW)
Dress in your best for our Children’s Ball during a very special Mother’s Day weekend at the museum. Join us for fun and fancy treats, dancing beats, and a kid-centered visit to the exhibition Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair. $10/museum members and GW students, faculty, and staff; $15/public (entrance for one adult and one child). Advance registration is required; space is limited. Register online or call 202-994-7394.

5:00pm-7:00pm: Adam’s Morgan Summer Concert
(Columbia Rd and 18th St NW)
Join us for the second show in Free Summer Concert Series! We’ll have hula hoops and bubbles for the kids as free wristbands good for discounts at businesses all over Adams Morgan. The Oxymorons take the stage with a mix of the hottest new songs, the best of the old, and their award-winning originals, giving audiences a night of hip-shaking New Orleans funk, soulful blues, Americana roots, and jam-band rock. This seriously-fun eight-piece band has been playing the DC area for more than 25 years, reeling off favorite party tunes spanning four decades and witty, well-crafted originals.

Sunday-

9:00am-12:00pm: La Bella Strada
(Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA)
Del Ray’s main street, Mount Vernon Ave. will come alive with vibrant chalk art. The second annual La Bella Strada Street Painting Festival, modeled after an ancient Italian art form, will bring artists from around the Northern Virginia/Washington D.C. region to create masterpieces up and down the sidewalk. Learn more about the event here. The event raises money for The Del Ray Montessori School, a 501c3 profit, for an outdoor playspace.

9:30am-4:00pm: Mother’s Day Brunch at Pinstripes
(1064 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington DC 20007)
Make this Mother’s Day special by treating mom to an expansive bottomless brunch fit for a queen! Indulge in favorites like made-to-order omelets, carved prime rib and fresh shrimp, bagels with spreads and smoked salmon, flatbreads, waffles ‘her-way’ topped with berries, bananas foster or Nutella, plus a chocolate fountain for dessert. Moms will be especially encouraged to sit back and relax with mimosas and bloody Mary’s as the kids are taken care of at the ‘Kids Corner’ station with pizzas, chicken fingers, Mac and cheese and more. Adults $36, includes bottomless mimosas | Kids 6-12 $15 | Kids 5 & Under: Free | $4 Mimosas & $7 Bloody Marys available all day. Please call to make a brunch reservation: 202-625-6500 Or plan ahead to Father’s Day Brunch.

10:00am-5:00pm: Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
(Bethesda Woodmont Triangle, Norfolk Ave., between Auburn and Del Ray Aves., Bethesda, MD)
Delight in fine art created by 130 of the nation’s best artists, live entertainment and Bethesda restaurants. Children’s area will be on Auburn Ave.

11:00am AND 2:00pm: Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp at Adventure Theatre
(7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
See my review of the play here. Bring your mom to see Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp this Sunday and she will receive a chocolate rose!

1:00pm-4:00pm: Celebrate Mothers Day at United States Botanic Garden
(Conservatory Garden Court)
Looking for a fun way to celebrate Mother’s Day? It is never too early to start planning your vegetable garden. Bring your mother to the USBG and help her design and plant her very own cook’s garden! Join Danielle Cook as she whips up two recipes and savor the bounty your garden will bring. Please note: This is a drop-in program and appropriate for all ages.