Beltway Bambinos

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

Search Results for: adventure theatre

Weekend Picks

An exciting program we’ve been to a few times that occurs each Saturday is at Glen Echo: Saturday Art Explorers. This Saturday it will be from 11:15am-1:00pm (slightly different time than usual). Drop in for an art activity and play in the Candy Corner Studio for $10, no need to pre-register. Play on the playground afterwards, look around the Glen Echo Park Aquarium or catch a show at Adventure Theatre or the Puppet Co.

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Saturday-

10:00am-3:00pm: African American Pioneers in Aviation and Space at National Air & Space Museum
(Independence Ave at 6th St)
Each February, the Museum celebrates the significant contributions African Americans have made to flight and space exploration despite the overwhelming obstacles they had to overcome. Visitors enjoy presentations, hands-on activities, and stories, and may have the opportunity to meet astronauts, fighter pilots, and others who will share stories of their challenges and accomplishments. They also learn about inspiring historic figures like Bessie Coleman through reenactments or story times.
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Family friendly theater & music productions in and around Washington, DC

The DMV area has an abundance of live productions whether it be theater or music, there’s always something going on. Expose your Bambinos early and help develop their appreciation for dramatic arts and rhythm. This summer you can also see performances involving live music and outdoor movies. We’ve added a list of well-known musicians and venues at the bottom.

Ändring av metadata kräver upphovsmannens tillstånd.

(Photo: Marmalade at Atlas Performing Arts Center)

Discovery Theater is part of the Smithsonian for Young Audiences. Shows are generally on a weekday at 10:15 and 11:30 however there are some shows that will have weekend performances. August and September they do not have shows.

In addition to on going shows at The Puppet Co Main Stage, they also feature a series called Tiny Tot shows. These are geared towards the younger audience (0-4 years old) with a shorter show for $5.  Show titles vary each week. (7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. 20812)

Millennium Stage at The Kennedy Center presents free performances everyday, no tickets required! Shows typically begin at 6:00pm.

Blueberries for Sal at Adventure Theatre: September 21-October 21, 2018
Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! Sal and her mother are picking delicious blueberries to can for the long winter months ahead to make delicious desserts. On the other side of Maine’s Blueberry Hill, a mama bear and baby bear are filling up for the long hibernation. But somehow Sal and a baby bear have a mixed up adventure and lose their mothers!

Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre: November 16, 2018 – January 6, 2019
What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles-and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Oohlala! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous? Recommended for all ages.

Huckleberry Finn’s Big River at Adventure Theatre: February 8 – March 10, 2019
Twain’s timeless classic sweeps us down the mighty Mississippi as the irrepressible Huck Finn helps his friend Jim, a slave, escape to freedom at the mouth of the Ohio River. Touching and timeless, this tale of friendship against all odds is recreated for young audiences as two best friends demonstrate the power of changing the world. Recommended for all ages.

Winnie the Pooh at Adventure Theatre: March 29 – May 26, 2019
Winnie the Pooh would spend every day of life humming tunes and stopping frequently to eat “a little something.” But today, Pooh and Piglet have to find the Heffalump, watch Rabbit scheme to rid the forest of Kanga’s dreaded bathtub, and help Eeyore search for his tail. Pooh’s intentions are always the best, but his passion for honey and condensed milk keeps getting him into trouble. Recommended for all ages.

The Cat in the Hat at Adventure Theatre: June 21 – August 18, 2019
From the moment his tall, red-and-white-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that the cat in the hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he is certainly fun to play with. And he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mom find when she gets home…? Recommended for all ages.

Cinderella at Imagination Stage: November 3, 2018-January 6, 2019
This wacky retelling of the beloved fairy tale takes Cinderella on a royal adventure complete with a wisecracking rat, evil stepsisters, and a smitten prince. When Cinderella’s stepmother forbids her from attending the ball, her fairy godmother convinces here that if the shoe fits- wear it! True love may await her if only she can put down her sword. Just the right fit for the holiday season! Recommended for all ages 4+.

Anatole: Mouse Magnifique at Imagination Stage: February 9-March 24, 2019
Meet Anatole- mouse magnifique- the best cheese-taster in all of France! In this whimsical musical adventure, Anatole and his best friend Gaston set out to save the Duval cheese factory, only to discover something much scarier than moldy Brie lurking in the tasting room. Can Anatole outsmart the hungry predator and save the factory? Join Anatole, Gaston, and a chorus of dancing cheeses to find out! Recommended for all ages 4+.

Dicken’s Davy Copperfield at Imagination Stage: February 16-March 31, 2019
Experience the genius of Charles Dickens through the eyes of a young boy! Follow Davy Copperfield on his childhood adventures in 19th C. England. Whether at home with his mother, at boarding school, working in a London bottling factory, or making his epic escape across the English countryside, Davy shows his resilience and determination to find a loving home. Recommended for all ages 6+.

Escape from Peligro Island at Imagination Stage: April 27- June 2, 2019
You create your own adventure! Callaway Brown – an unlikely young hero – has been stranded on a desert island, and it’s up to YOU to decide what happens next! In this interactive production, audience members vote on Callaway’s actions in an energetic romp through time and space. Will Callaway time travel to the Wild West and meet a talking horse? Develop superpowers and fight crime in the future? Or have a crush on a vampire? The choice is yours! Recommended for all ages 5+.

The Ballad of Mu Lan: June 26- August 18, 2019
Courage, honor, and country! When China is forced to war with the invading Xi Xia, each family must send one man into battle. In her quest to protect her baba, our young heroine proves girls can do anything – including saving a nation. Inspired by Peking Opera, this partnership production with the Honolulu Theatre for Youth is full of music, pageantry, and humor. Students from the prestigious O-mei Wushu Center- under the direction of Martial Arts Master Sifu Xiaolin Lu – round out the cast in this girl-powered adventure! Recommended for all ages 6+.

My First Imagination Stage: The My First Imagination Stage theatre series offers intimate, interactive theatre performances designed for the very young in our Reeve Studio Theatre. Learn more below about our early childhood classes and weekend workshops for ages 1-5.

Blue: October 6- October 28, 2018
Join Pale Blue and Inky Blue in their blue-tiful garden, where blue flowers sprout in blue pots with the help of some water, a song, and some theatre magic! All is well until one day… a stubborn RED flower blooms in their harmonious blue world! Can Pale and Inky agree how to approach this colorful intruder?

Wake Up, Brother Bear: January 11- February 13, 2019
Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take your little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in this unforgettable live theatre experience. Reimagined for this 10th anniversary performance, this audience favorite is sure to delight and inspire.

Aquarium: March 30–April 14, 2019
Enter a fantastical island world where fish soar through the air, lemons light up the sky, and sheep go parading by. With gentle music, puppets, and props, guides Jack and Calypso lead children and caregivers in an interactive journey to a magical place of play.

Balloonacy: July 6–August 4, 2019
Nothing can go right for the character of the old man, whose days are gray and dreary until he is visited by a friendly red balloon. 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. That is until the red balloon returns to the rescue! 

Encore Stage & Studio: Encore Stage & Studio’s mission is to build life-long appreciation for live theater by involving young people in all aspects of theater arts — onstage, backstage, in the classroom, and in the audience.


 Ghostchasers: Oct.5-8, 2018 
Things are at their worst at the Asylum for the Extremely Tense, run by the famous Dr. Horace Roy. An earthquake jolt has freed a poltergeist, and it’s creating mischief! The patients have locked up the staff and nobody can tell who’s who! Luckily, Dr. Roy’s cousin Harriet knows just who to call… the Ghostchasers! Honcho and his staff of student ghostchasers are equipped with an array of strange and incredible gadgets, but are they ready for the call? We recommend this production for ages 6 and older.

A Sidewalk Stroll: October 20-November 9, 2018
In its newest play series, Theatre for the Very Young, Encore Stage & Studio presents “A Sidewalk Stroll”–starring professional artists who bring park adventures and friendly animals to life, all the while teaching your little one about navigating through life’s surprises. Recommended for ages 1 and older.

Jingle Arrgh the Way: Nov. 16-18, 2018
A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. Favorite characters, a rollicking story, great songs, and a trip to the North Pole to find “you know who” – makes Jingle ARRGH the Way! a wonderful holiday show for the whole family. Based on a story by Melinda Long, author of How I Became a Pirate. We recommend this musical for ages 4 and older.

The Enchanted Bookshop: January 11-20, 2019
During the day, A Likely Story looks like any other bookshop, but at night the characters inside the books come alive. Classic characters — including Dorothy Gale, Pollyanna, Heidi, Tom Sawyer and more — long to help Margie, the scatterbrained owner, save her struggling store. When a pair of smugglers come looking for a stolen necklace hidden inside one of the books, the characters must find a way to rescue the bookshop without being seen. Join us on this magical mission to celebrate the enchantment and joy of reading. We recommend this production for ages 4 and older. 

RobinHood: February 22-March 3, 2019
Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham are cruel and unfair to their citizens. Robin Hood and his merry men are on a mission to help by taking from the rich and giving back to the poor. To arms! When the Sheriff and Lady Merle hatch a plan to stop him, Robin Hood must save Maid Marian, defeat the awful sheriff, and secure Nottingham for the true king’s return. We recommend this production for ages 6 and older.

The Talented Clementine: May 31-June 9, 2019
Clementine gets nervous when her third grade teacher announces that her class will be putting on a talent show to raise money for the spring trip. She can’t sing or dance or play an instrument like her super talented friend Margaret, and what talents she does have would not work on a stage. Clementine must find an act, any act, to perform before the night of the big show. But with only a few days to do so, can she put it together in time? We recommend this musical for ages 6 and older.

Disney’s Newsies: July 19-28, 2019
Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right!

Arts on the Horizon strives to present high-quality theatre for young audiences and their families at an affordable rate. They believe that the arts play an important role in the life of a child. They provide 30-minute, interactive, nonverbal shows performed by professional, adult actors.  Post-show activities, such as a take-home craft projects related to themes in the show and meet-and-greet opportunities with the performers, extend the theater-going experience beyond the actual production.

Sailing on String at The Lab at Convergence: May 2-18, 2019
​A simple piece of yarn can become so many things! Follow a curious explorer on a voyage into a world made entirely of string! Yarn birds fly through the air passing crocheted clouds. This gentle, engaging performance features object transformation, dance, live string music, and captivating design. Follow the twists, turns, and eventual tangles of this special immersive performance for our youngest audience members! Best for children ages 0-2 and their families

Beep Beep at The Lab at Convergence: March 7-23, 2019 
Beep Beep at Atlas Performing Arts Center: March 27-31, 2019
Monkeying around can be so much fun! But when an actual monkey starts tinkering in a car, so many things go wrong that the owner can’t seem to fix! With their car falling apart, will our friend solve this mystery in time? This highly physical comedy, features live percussion music and plenty of zany shenanigans. Come help us figure out how to fix up this car where nothing goes right! Best for children ages 2 – 5 and their families.

Venues to keep in mind:

Synetic Theater (for 13+)

Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

Jammin Java (Tot Rock)

Bloombars

Boogie Babes

The National Theatre

Encore Stage and Studio

Black Rock Center for the Arts

Atlas Performing Arts Center

Arts on the Horizon

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Favorite DC musicians and performers (in no particular order) we recommend checking out their schedules as well as considering them for birthday parties:
Mr. Gabe

Mr. Skip

John Henry, The Guitar Playing Man

Baba Ras D

The Uncle Devin Show

Marsha Goodman-Wood

Summer Performances:
Backyard Theater for Children at Strathmore (10701 Rockville Pike North Bethesda, MD 20852-3224)
Bringing families together for concerts that are entertaining, educational and perfect for all ages! Thursdays in July. Bring a blanket and relax under the tent. $8 tickets for kids over 2.

Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods  offers summer-long entertainment to children. Shows are geared towards children in Kindergarten-Grade 6.

Summerfest Family Theatre in Frederick
From clowns and magicians, to Emmy-awarding winning musicians and puppeteers, the Summerfest Family Theatre has brought high-quality entertainment to Frederick youngsters for over seventeen years! All summer long.

Fall 2015 classes in and around Washington, DC

Summer is ending {sigh} so we’ve highlighted some places offering Fall Classes. There are so many possibilities so please contact us and let us know if you have a favorite that is not on our list. Here’s to Pumpkin Spice Lattes and the turning of leaves. Happy Fall!

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Adventure Theatre: Fall Academy Classes for children ages 12 months-Grade 12 can be found here.

Curiosity Zone: Hands-on science classes in a science lab for children ages 3-Grade 5. Classes can be found here.

Hillwood Estate: Various themes and sessions for the preschool classes. Classes can be found here.

Imagination Stage: Theme-based Fall Class Schedule for children ages 12 months-age 21 can be found here.

Little Loft: A neighborhood art studio which has two locations, Capitol Hill and Takoma Park. Offering classes for preschool kids, open studio time and off school classes. Click here and choose the location to find all class options.

Meadowlark Music: Classes include parachute, scarves, instruments, drums, puppets, balls, guitar, flute, dancing, singing, giggling, clapping, movement and more! They are designed to engage caregivers and little ones in an organic way…which leads to us all enjoying our little ones’ musical discoveries in a remarkably positive and friendly environment. More information can be found here for children 0-3 years old.

Montgomery County Recreation Department: You can find The Guide which is full of classes here or you can pick one up at a Montgomery County Library or Recreation Center.

Round House Theatre: Fall classes consist of 8-week sessions on Saturdays. Classes for children ages 2-Grade 8 can be found here.

Silver Stars Gymnastics: Fall classes for children ages 18 months and up can be found here.

Smithsonian National Zoo: Preschool classes throughout the year can be found here. After school classes for children ages 6-10 can be found here. Unique, HomeSchool Classes are also available, find more info here.

The Children’s Art Studio: A 10-week Fall session for children ages PK-Teenagers. Classes can be found here.

The Creative Difference: After school enrichment classes for children ages PK-Grade 5 can be found here.

Quick Feet: Soccer for 2-5 year olds in DC, MD and VA. Classes can be found here.

Washington DC JCC: Fall Classes for children ages newborn to age 4 can be found here. After school enrichment classes for children Pre-K- Grade 6 can be found here.

 

Indoor Gym Spaces: th

BusyBees

Gymboree

Kidville

My Gym

 

Family-Friendly Yoga Studios:

Tranquil Space

Lil Omm

Weekend Picks: Magic Tree House, MusiKids and Engineers for a day

Arts on the Horizon will be featuring Sunny and Licorice at Atlas Performing Arts Intersections Festival this weekend. Check here for the Family Schedule of Events.

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Friday & Saturday-

Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark, Kids! at Adventure Theatre featuring ATMTC Academy Students in Grades 2 – 5 Feb. 27 & 28
(7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812)
While exploring one afternoon, Jack and Annie discover a tree house full of books: Jack looks through a book about dinosaurs and wishes he could see a real one. Suddenly the wind begins to blow and the tree house starts to spin wildly. When it finally stops, Jack and Annie open their eyes to find they have been transported back to the time of the dinosaurs! Tickets are $5.

Saturday-

10:00am: MusiKids at Avalon Theatre
(5612 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC. 20015)
Come join musiKids in a brand new Adventure Day – “Down on the Bayou”! This interactive musical show will have children singing and moving to songs inspired by the colorful creatures from the bayous of Louisiana. Learn how to snap like an alligator or jump like a rabbit! musiKids Adventure Days encourage kids to sing and move along with each and every song. Recommended for children ages 18 months to 6 years old.

10:00am-4:30pm:Engineering Family Day at National Building Museum
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 2000)
Every February, the National Building Museum and the National Engineers Week Foundation invite you to debunk the myths of engineering and discover how professional engineers turn ideas into reality. Celebrate Engineers Week by participating in this free, hands-on, and fun-filled festival. Explore thermodynamics, electricity, aerodynamics, and more with engineers at more than 25 activity tables and demonstrations made especially for kids. Discover Engineering Family Day is a FREE, drop-in program. $5 donation suggested. Program and activities are most appropriate for children ages 6 to 12 with adult supervision. Registration is not required.

10:30am: Saturday Fun-Day at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814)
You and your child are invited to a fun, interactive musical experience! An Early Childhood Teaching Artist (playing a ukulele!) 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. Best for ages 1 month-3 years. Featured story: The Wheels on the Bus

11:00am and 1:00pm: Human Rights Campaign features “Dancin’ in the Kitchen” concert
(640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20036)
Join HRC for a special family concert featuring the Grammy winning duo, Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer and songs from their forthcoming CD, “Dancin’ in the Kitchen,” featuring songs that celebrate all kinds of families!  Each family will receive an advance copy of “Dancin’ in the Kitchen,” a chance to meet the musicians, and snacks during the show. Seating will be limited, so get your tickets early! Adult General Admission: $10 and Children General Admission: $5

Sunday-

th10:00am: Sunday Fun Day at Imagination Stage
(4908 Auburn Avenue, 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 completed craft, as well as a Parent Pack to extend the experience at home. These popular workshops are themed around beloved children’s books. Best for ages 1-3. Featured story: Where the Wild Things Are

2:00pm: The Wacky & Whimsical Tea for THEARC
(1150 22nd Street, NW Washington, DC 20037-The Ritz-Carlton of Washington)
Enjoy a fun-filled Sunday afternoon that will include high tea, a silent auction and creative games for kids of all ages and their families, including a treasure trove, special entertainment and other surprises.  All of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC).

 

A Guide to Spring Break Camps- 2015 Edition

Spring Break Camps? Yes, please if it means this arctic weather will soon be gone. We’ve found an assortment of camps for your child if you are staying in town this Spring Break. Registration has already opened for most so don’t delay find a good fit for your child and sign up today. And it’s not too early to start checking out our Summer Camp Guide. Have a favorite camp that isn’t listed? Please let us know so we can add it to our list for readers.

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Maryland:

Imagination Stage- April 6-10, 2015
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20814)
Mornings, afternoons or full day camps in Drama, Dance, Filmmaking,or a combination. Make it an awesome Spring Break, and get your child’s creative juices flowing. It’s way more fun than hanging out at home. Ages 3.5-Grade 8.

MSA- April 6-10, 2015th
(Hoover MS, 8810 Postoak Rd, Potomac, MD 20854)
Spring break multi-sport and enrichment camp is designed by sports champions to help young athletes realize their optimal performance in their favorite sports. MSA offers a spectacular multi-sport & enrichment camp providing a well-rounded experience combining learning and fun, to build fond memories that will last a lifetime. Baseball, Basketball,Bocce Ball, Dance and fitness, Flag Football, Golf, Kickball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Street Hockey, and  Tennis. are offered. Camp is from 8:30am-4:00pm and is offered for girls and boys ages 4-14.

Silver Stars Gymnastics- April 6-10, 2015
(2701 Pittman Dr. Silver Spring, Md 20910)
(14201 Woodcliff Ct. Bowie, Md 20720)
Choose one day or all week, half day or full day. They offer three camps for kids 3.5-15 at both locations.

Adventure Theatre– April 6-10, 2015
(7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC where they will have a full day of theatrical activities, afternoon snack. For those that attend a Wednesday camp day, an 11am performance of their main show Three Little Birds is included. You can choose one day or the full week.  Grads K-5.

 

Virginia:

Arts on the Horizon – March 30-April 3, 2015
(1100 Wythe Street Alexandria, VA  22313 )
Calling all time travelers! Your child will take a voyage through the vortex to explore the past, present, and future. Jumping into history, climbing the pyramids in Ancient Egypt and then head further back to meet a T-Rex and use their imaginations to explore futuristic worlds on distant stars! Half day camp for children ages 3-5.

Arlington County Parks and Recreation – March 30-April 3, 201529730
(Various locations in Arlington)
Many options from arts, sports and theatre are some of the camps offered through the Recreation Department. Extended hours are available. Ages 5-15.

Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre – March 30-April 3, 2015
(Heritage Presbyterian Church- 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, Va. 22308)
Your child will explore their creative side. All campers will rehearse and perform a show at a the end of camp. This is one of the longer camps running from 9:00am-5:00pm. Grades Kindergarten-14 years old.

SkateQuest – March 30-April 3, 2015
(1800 Michael Faraday Ct., Reston, Va. 20190)
For the child who can’t get enough of the ice. Camp includes ice skating lessons, ice painting, broom ball and an end of camp show. Ages 4.5-12.

Spring Break Camp at Dulles SportsPlex – March 30-April 3, 2015
(21610 Atlantic Blvd. Sterling, Va. 20166)
Your child will have fun learning and playing sports. Some are soccer, kickball, flag football and basketball. They offer full or half day & full or half day options for children ages 6-12.

 

Washington, DC:

th-2The Children’s Art Studio- April 13 – 17, 2015
(Location TBD)
Campers will touch upon the fundamentals of drawing, painting, sculpture and printing with fun-filled exercises.  Time will be devoted to longer-term multi-day projects which will be structured as a direct response to the interests and curiosities of the particular group of children. Camp will meet from 9-2. Camps are for children 5 years old and up!

DC United Camp– March 30-April 3, 2015 and April 6-10, 2015
(RFK Training Center- 2400 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC 20003)
(Patriot Park- 12111 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA 22030)
Join D.C. United as they host their annual Spring Break soccer camp series. The 5-day curriculum designed by our full time Academy and Pre-Academy coaches suits players ages 5-17. These camps will help develop the players’ technical and tactical understanding of the game while maintaining a fun and exciting environment. Camp includes soccer ball, t-shirt, DC United ticket and DC United player appearances.

Spring Break Camp at The Children’s Art Studio– April 13-April 17, 2015
(Location may vary)
Each camp session will touch upon the fundamentals of drawing, painting, sculpture and printing with fun-filled exercises and will devote time to longer-term multi-day projects. They go to Fort Reno Park for lunch and play.  Class will take place from 9:00am-2:00pm. Camps are for children five years old and up.

Spring Safari Day Camp at The National Zoo- March 30 – April 3; April 7 – 10 (no camp on Monday, April 6 SpringSafariLogo– Easter Monday); and April 13 – 17, 2015
(3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008)
The Zoo always delivers fun and engaging camps. Themes include Zoo-uess and Where the Wild Things Are. Spring Safari campers will explore the lives and habitats of animals around the world and learn about ongoing conservation efforts to protect them. Camp includes exciting hands-on activities, craft projects, science experiments, and walks through the Zoo. Grades K-5.

Hopper Heroes Camp at Georgetown Day School (GDS)- March 23-27, 2015
(Held at the Lower School- 4530 MacArthur Blvd, Washington, DC 20007)
Have you ever wanted to be just like one of your favorite superheroes, learn the skills that they use, and how they apply those skills to helping the world become a better place!? If so, this camp is for you. You’ll build strength and skills, test your superhero brain power and learn what it takes to live everyday like a superhero. (Sign up by day.) Break Camp runs from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and After-Camp Care from 3:00-6:00 p.m. There is not before-camp care. Geared towards campers age 5-Grade 5 and are open to GDS and non-GDS students.

The Theatre Lab- April 13-17, 2015
(733 8th Street NW. Washington DC 20001)
School’s Out camps, modeled on The Theatre Lab’s award-winning Summer Acting Camps for Kids, are perfect for children age 6-12, who enjoy being creative and making new friends, and are designed to be fun for novices as well as kids who have already been bitten by the drama bug. Drama activities are scheduled from 9:00am-3:00pm, and kids can come for just one day or the whole week. Families can extend a child’s day from 8:30am-5:00pm by choosing our extended-day recreational activities option.

Summer Camp Guide for 2015

2016 Summer Camp Guide is available!

Yes, there is snow on the ground, but most summer camps are currently accepting registrations. And knowing this area, the best ones will be out of space before spring even hits. To get you prepared, we’ve put together a guide to give you the scoop on Washington, DC area camps for summer 2015. We’ve highlighted a few that are worth a look and included links to others at the bottom of the post.  As always, add to this post by commenting with your own suggestion– first or second hand. Here’s to a fun summer!

imagesBike Camp
(Drop off and Pick up at Saint Stephen and the Incarnation Episcopal Church: 1525 Newton Street NW)
Bike Camp is a summer program for kids aged 7 to 14. It’s an inclusive day camp that teaches safe bicycling and mechanical skills. We’re also teaming up with Gearin’ Up Bicycles so that students can build their own bikes to take home! The program is packed with lots of outdoor education activities, but it’s also a lot of fun! During camp, students will: Bike between one and 15 miles each day. Rides will increase in duration as the camp progresses, fix and earn their own bike, learn how to take care of their bike and make basic repairs, volunteer at a local organization, map their own rides, practice team-building activities, explore the neighborhood on their own two wheels and play games, learn about DC, and have fun outdoors. Camp hours are 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday – Friday, July 13 – July 24 (10 days) and the price is $525.

Steve and Kates Camp
(Grace Episcopal School- 3601 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA 22305)
(Georgetown Day School- 4530 MacArthur Blvd, Washington, DC 20007)
If we could go to camp, this may be our first choice. Inflatable slip n slide, carnival on the last day and kid sized inflatable stadium for sports. This camp gives campers a choice where they step into a world packed with possibilities. One camper dives deep into stop-motion animation. Another discovers a passion for dance. Or chess. A camper becomes engrossed in making the perfect bread. Or developing Leo Messi-like touch on the soccer pitch. K thru 7th grade in the fall.
Wilson Video Production Summer Camp at Woodrow Wilson High School
(3950 Chesapeake Street NW, Washington, DC 20016)
This is a full day camp for incoming 6-9th graders who are looking for a creative and fun outlet. Campers will learn to shoot and edit a creative short film. Every Friday, we will host the “Woody” Awards and screen each of the films shot and edited during the week. This is a high energy, fast paced camp that your child will enjoy being at.

Continental Army Camp at The American Revolutionary Institute serve
(2118 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008: Anderson House)
 Camp is July 27, 2015 – July 31, 2015 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Levine Summer Music & Arts Day Camp at Katzen Arts Center at American University
(4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
 This year’s theme: “A Musical Road Trip – Hear America Sing”. From the mountains, to the prairies, to the oceans white with foam, your child will visit the major centers of music in America. Summer camp offers top-notch instruction within a fun and collaborative environment for campers aged 3.5 – 12. Now in it’s 27th year, Levine’s camp offers kids an incredible musical education during each of its two, three-week sessions.

Lowell School Camp
(1640 Kalmia Rd NW., Washington, DC. 20012)
Their respectful and caring atmosphere encourages campers, ages 3 to 14, to grow in self-awareness and confidence, while strengthening their cooperation and consideration for others. They have an expansive campus with fields, surrounded by towering trees, provides generous space for games, sports, exercise, and water play. Campers explore and investigate plant and animal life in a spring-fed stream, a tributary of nearby Rock Creek. The four-lane indoor pool, fully equipped technology center, three art workshops, library, and large gymnasium are also available to campers. 

National Building Museum Summer Camp
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
Two-week sessions for campers ages 8–10, entering 3–5 grade in fall 2014. Experience the world we build for ourselves in new ways and with hands-on activities and projects in one of our favorite buildings in DC! Attend one, two, or three unique sessions of two week, full-day summer camp at the National Building Museum. Campers will enjoy design challenges, exploring the Museum, and more!

Wonders Summer Camp at The Edmund Burke School
(4101 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Washington, DC)
The best and brightest from Wonders Child Care’s elementary school extended-day programs join as counselors at Wonders Summer Camp. The small camp offers lots of individual attention for campers and weeks of opportunities to explore, create and grow. Week-long themed sessions full of fun classes and adventure for rising K-6 grade. June 16-August 15: full-day or extended day options with shuttle bus service from Tenleytown, Bethesda and Chevy Chase.

Sidwell Summerjunior-explorers-00
(3825 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
(5100 Edgemoor Lane Bethesda, MD 20814)
With an array of programs for campers and students Age 3 – Grade 12 throughout June,  July, and August, they have something for everyone. This camp has two locations to choose from with a variety of camps; day camp, sports camp and academic camp.

Smithsonian Summer Camps
(S. Dillon Ripley Center at 1100 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, D.C.)
Where else can campers blast into space or take center stage, create a masterpiece, invent a fantasy world, relive history or learn to shape the future of the planet? The rich and exciting world of the Smithsonian Summer Camp program, now in its 45th year, is all theirs to discover in these one-of-a-kind learning experiences that spark the imagination—and offers plenty of great fun! Grades K-9.

Bricks4Kidz
(1130 6th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Camp kicks off the morning session by grouping up the kiddos by age (two age groups: 4-6 year olds and 7-12 year olds) then the fun begins. “Campers” work in pairs and build projects through Bricks 4 Kidz lesson plans and make creations of their own during super fun free play periods. The afternoon gets “challenging” as the campers enter “Challenge Island”, that provides unique challenge-based programs designed to foster critical and creative thinking skills, problem solving methodology, and core STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) principles in children.

Snapology
(9150 Rumsey Rd, Suite A4, Columbia, MD 21045)
Lego themed classes, Robotcs classes, Animation classes and much more! The Ashburn summer camps schedule is listed here along with a brief description. Camps are limited to 12 campers with a 6:1 kids to staff ratio. They don’t just put out a bunch of Lego bricks for camper to play with. They have lessons plans for all of our camps. Their goal is for kids to learn something, be inspired and have a blast.

***Snapology of Ashburn, VA has changed its name to Serious Bricks.

creativeThe Creative Difference
(St. Michael’s Episcopal Church – 1132 N Ivanhoe St Arlington, VA 22205)
The Creative Difference offers weeklong summer camps in LEGO, Drama, Robotics, STEaM, and Art.  The camp is imaginative and activities are minds-on, hands-on, and child-driven.  Depending on the camp, ages range from 3-12.

Summer Safari Zoo Camp at The National Zoo
(3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008)
The National Zoo offers a wide variety of week long sessions for children in Grades K-5. Campers will explore the lives, habitats, and conservation of animals around the world. Sessions include exciting hands-on activities, craft projects, science experiments, and walks through the Zoo.

Spy Camp at the Spy Museum
(800 F Street, NW Washington, DC  20004)
Another sneaky camp that sounds like so much fun and full of thrills! Somewhere deep inside the Museum an elite group of recruits is lurking in the shadows preparing to take on top secret missions. No one really knows who they are, or for that matter, what they’re really up to. Now it’s your children’s turn to join their ranks. Each day is filled with top secret briefings and activities that will put spy skills and street smarts to the test. Aspiring Spy recruits will hone their tradecraft, learn from real spies, and hit the streets to run training missions. Develop a disguise for cover, make and break codes, discover escape and evasion techniques, create and use spy gadgets, uncover the science behind spying—all of this and more awaits young recruits! Ages 10-13.

Arts on the Horizon Summer Camps
(1100 Wythe Street, #26093  Alexandria, VA)
From superhero to construction, this arts inspired camp has a session that is sure to appeal to your child. They offer one week, half day sessions. Ages 3-6.

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Theatre & Arts Camps:

Adventure Theatre Camps
(7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
Your child will work alongside accomplished D.C. area theater professionals and teaching artists during daily rehearsals in dancing, singing, and acting. With props and costumes, singing and scene-work, your child’s experience will culminate in a performance of a full-scale, youth-appropriate main stage show for friends and family. Grades 1-12.

The Keegan Theatre’s Bright Stars Summer Camp
(1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036)
 This summer, we are introducing two weeks at our newly renovated theatre on Church Street in Northwest Washington- one week for rising 6th-12th graders and a week for our budding stars- rising 1st-5th graders.  Budding Stars is a week-long adventure designed for our younger stars.  Campers bring their favorite stories to life through creative movement, games, and improvisation.  Camp designed for rising grades 1-5.  (Students will be grouped by age level.) 
Week #2: August 3-7, 2015- 9:30 am – 3:30 pm for ages:  Rising Grades 6-12
Week #3: August 10-14, 2015- 9:30 am – 3:30 pm for ages:  Rising Grades 1-5

Fillmore Arts Camp
(1819 35th St NW, Washington, DC. 20007)
Ceramics, guitar, fabric art and musical improvisation are some of the classes your budding artist could take. Swimming is also included in each campers experience in the two, three-week sessions.  Ages 6-15.

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Little Loft
(511 11th Street SE Washington DC 20003)
Two-week sessions of art-based activities, with outside play, quiet reading time, and choice time built into the day. A haven for kids who like to draw, build, tinker, and create. Ages 4-10.

The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts
(733 8th Street NWWashington, DC 20001)
The Theatre Lab’s summer camps are fun, high-energy programs that allow young people to fully engage their imaginations as they experience the thrill of creating live theatre. Acting Camp for children ages 6-10 and Summer Acting and Musical Theatre for children ages 11-13. Campers participate in a wide variety of theatre activities—including improvisation, scene study, storytelling, creative writing, group singing, and mime.

Round House Theatre 

Encore Stage and Studio

Imagination Stage

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Language Camps:

CommuniKids This language camp lets children ages 2.5-6 enjoy traditional summer fun in a language-immersion setting. They have two  locations that offer full- and half-day programs in Spanish (DC & VA), French, Chinese and Arabic (VA only). They also have extended care.

Language Stars This language camp offers play-based summer immersion programs in Spanish, French, Mandarin and German. Taught by native-speaking teachers from around the world, your child will be immersed in language, culture and summer fun. 7 DC Area Locations: Alexandria, Bethesda, Fairfax, Falls Church, Gaithersburg, N. Arlington/McLean, Reston. Ages 3 -10. They also offer a parent/child tots camp for children ages 1-3.

 

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Other camps around the Washington, DC area:

Weekend Picks: Flowers, festivals and funk FTW

It’s May AND Friday!!! Not sure which I’m more excited about the prospect of warmer (and drier) weather upon us or having Daddy home all weekend to help and play with the toddler. Note the first 2 picks start today (Friday). With the arrival of May comes Azalea Festivals and Flower Marts you’re sure to bring something home to brighten up the yard or a nauseous child that’s been on one too many rides. Either way this weekend is one we love because it offers so many choices. Get out and enjoy a few of them.

May 2-3 (10:00am-5:00pm): National Cathedral Flower Mart
(Washington National Cathedral, Wisconsin & Massachusetts Aves., NW., Washington, DC)
Attend the 75th year for the Flower Mart which benefits the Cathedral’s gardens and grounds. You can admire many flowers and there will also be garden tours, musical performances and delicious food. And for your kids, well there is enough to keep them busy too; rock wall, moon bounce, ferris wheel and a carousel.

May 2-4 from 10:00am-5:00pm: Landon School Azalea Garden Festival Main_Page
(6101 Wilson Lane, Bethesda, MD 20817)
Enjoy this wonderful azalea festival while strolling the gorgeous land Landon sits on. Bearly Used is an enormous tag sale during the Azalea Garden Festival that offers deals on gently used treasures. There is a huge FunLand that will entertain your child for hours, live music including a Jazz Festival and food vendors. All proceeds from the festival support student financial assistance and faculty enrichment. General admission and parking are free. Schedule of events found here.

May 2-4 (various times): A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Adventure Theatre P3Kj957kteYW9MR2bDQFQ5fjy2nAIcByVcuLdYxMuQD-9QDQwii_sU1gN29KYAW6rVxDvYnHgWYTs0JBoRU_ZWFVYpe7vKoZfACkaTN0m9pnILgrh42P7L2-80A=s0-d-e1-ft
(7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812)
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, William Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, was written around 1594 or 95. It portrays the adventures of four young lovers and a group of amateur actors, their interactions with woodland fairies and a duke and duchess. Taking place in a mythical Athens and an enchanted forest, there is a handsome fairy king, a misguided parent, star-crossed lovers, a weaver who’s transformed into a half-donkey, wood sprites and elves. This work is widely performed around the world, and no wonder – it’s about the world’s most popular pastime, falling in love. But as Puck knows, falling in love can make fools of us all. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. Find tickets here. [Read more…]

Weekend Picks: NPR, Persian New Year and a teddy bear concert

The weekend we’ve been looking forward to for months: Daylight Savings! Also, known as a time parents dread because they have to get their child back on a sleep schedule, adapting to the time change. The weather should be warm and sunny on Saturday. A perfect time to take advantage of the free admission to Dumbarton Oaks 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007. Between 2:00pm-5:00pm (Sunday as well) you can roam the gardens and run the long lawns. MehQcBs5qeckHhfNPKw6YwO1okpH7U9HCWzgTA3lCjKAybpB-oz_WYRgMOwtlfZTlVDoTQ=s114
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Saturday:

9:30am-4:00pm- Explore, Invent and Experiment with STEMosphere at George Washington University
(Charles E. Smith Center at GWU 600 22nd St NW, Washington, DC. 20052)
STEMosphere is a FREE one-day event where students, parents, educators and lifelong learners of all ages can join us for a public exhibition of fun, interactive, STEM-inspired activities. Learn anatomy by layering clay on realistic models. Experiment with the world’s first interactive projector. Get your hands dirty with an environmental service-learning project.

10:00am-3:00pm- Family Day: The Great Escape at The Corcoran Gallery of Art
(500 17th St., NW, Washington, D.C.)
Escape to Paris, New York, and the Wild West without leaving DC! Families will experience these destinations through live performances, in-gallery activities, and hands on art workshops. Featuring special performances of My Grandfather’s Circuis by Zany Umbrella Circrus and a masquarde salon by Project Enlightenment, this celebration will higlight some of the D.C. area’s best art, dance, and music. This FREE, amazing adventure is inspired by the exhibition American Journeys: Visions of Place. All ages are welcome.

[Read more…]

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