family fun in Washington DC

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

April 12, 2024

If your kids go to a DCPS school, I congratulate you, we have made it to the country’s latest spring break holiday. Several of you have reached out asking about options for staying in DC for this break. Below you will find a few ideas–

16 ways to spend spring break in DC
Beach and state park trips
Overnight trips from DC

All weekend
Sakura Matsuri
Over two days, Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival brings Japan into the heart of the Nation’s Capitol. Stretching from 3rd to 7th streets NW on Pennsylvania Ave at the base of Capitol Hill, the festival features over 24 hours of Japanese cultural performances, authentic Japanese food and beverages, handmade Japanese crafts, and so much more.

Peter Pan at The National Theatre
This high-flying musical has been thrilling audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price and choreography by Lorin Latarro. The adventure begins when PETER PAN and his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the bedroom of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of fairy dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.” PETER PANembraces the child in us all so go on a journey from the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning – your entire family will be Hooked!

Love & Information at Imagination Stage- Student Show
Someone shares a forbidden secret, someone confronts their best friend, someone admires a snail. In this kaleidoscopic play, over fifty unrelated scenes flash by faster than a doomscroll as over a hundred characters strive to connect with each other, learn from one another, and look for love. Love and Information, written to be transformed into it’s own unique vision by every company that performs it, makes this production a once in a lifetime theatrical experience.

Friday
8:00pm-10:00pm: Star Gaze at Udar-Hazy Center
Do you ever look up at the night sky and wonder what you’re seeing? Come stargaze outside the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. Join Museum staff and members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club for a view of the night sky. Experienced people will help you to observe a variety of things, including planets, stars, and the Moon. Telescopes will be provided by Smithsonian and pre-approved members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club. No other personal telescopes are permitted at the event.

Saturday
10:00am-12:00pm: The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
The Nation’s Springtime Parade is an amazing sight on Constitution Avenue! Grand colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers burst down the Parade route in a spectacle of music and showmanship celebrating spring in Washington, DC.

10:00am-3:00pm: Horse Expo at Frying Pan Farm
This event is for experienced riders as well as people who are new to the world of horses. There will be food trucks, speakers, demonstrations, and businesses that sell horse-related products and services. Immerse yourself in the equestrian world. Experienced riders and new horse enthusiasts welcome. Indulge in delectable treats from food trucks. Gain insights from expert speakers. Witness captivating demonstrations. Explore a variety of businesses offering horse-related products and services.

10:30am-12:30pm: April Family Day: National Library Month at The Library of Congress
Families are invited to learn about America’s national library, explore the significance of libraries in their own lives, and try their hand at organizing their own mini collection.
The April Family Day will also feature work by Library of Congress literary ambassadors, conversations with Library staff, and a take-home pamphlet with resources related to the history of the Library of Congress, and the depth of its digital collections. Activities will be held on the mezzanine level (second floor) of the Jefferson Building from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event is free, but passes are required for the Jefferson Building. Register for free timed-entry tickets.

1:00pm: Jacqueline Woodson’s Block Party! at the Kennedy Center
Music! Food! Fun! Join us for another Kennedy Center Block Party hosted by Education Artist-in-Residence and award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson! Free performances, fun-filled games, and various activities will be programmed on the REACH grounds all afternoon, featuring artists with roots in the Washington, D.C. area.

Sunday
2:00pm: DC Emancipation Day Celebration
Parade begins at 2pm, followed by a 3pm concert and 8:30pm fireworks at Freedom Plaza. This year is the 162nd Anniversary of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862, the only act that stands as an example of compensation by the federal government to slave owners in the District of Columbia for the loss of their human property. On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill ending slavery in the District of Columbia. Passage of this act came nearly nine months before President Lincoln issued his Emancipation Proclamation. The law ended slavery in Washington, DC which freed approximately 3,100 individuals, reimbursed those who had legally owned these individuals, and offered the newly freed women and men money to emigrate. It is this legislation, and the courage and struggle of those who fought to make it a reality, that we commemorate every April 16th as DC Emancipation Day.

Plan Ahead:
April 27: Carousel Day at Glen Echo Park

Recent Posts:
Family-friendly features of Capital One Arena
Summer Camp Guide

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

April 5, 2024

NSO Music for Young Audiences: *String Thing*

Friday
7:30pm: Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert at The Strathmore
Thirty years after the defeat of the Empire, Luke Skywalker has vanished and a new threat has risen: The First Order, led by the mysterious Supreme Leader Snoke and his dark side enforcer, Kylo Ren. General Leia Organa’s military force, the Resistance—and unlikely heroes brought together by fate—are the galaxy’s only hope at thwarting a new reign of evil. From visionary director J.J. Abrams, the film features a new score composed by five-time Academy Award®-winning composer John Williams. Experience the film on the big screen as the BSO performs the score live on stage.

Saturday
9:00am-12:00pm: Pink in the Pool at the Long Bridge Aquatic Center
Bring your kids and join us for a splash of fun and culture at Pink in the Pool! Enjoy complimentary entry to the aquatics center, now playfully decked with pink pool toys. Discover the elegance of Japanese customs with our origami workshops and tea-tasting sessions offered by the Study Japanese in Arlington Initiative. Treat yourself to freshly spun cotton candy and cherry blossom-inspired sweets, and gather around for storytime sessions surrounded by delightful cherry blossom-themed decor.

10:00am-2:00pm: Get Ready for the Solar Eclipse Family Day
Soar Together at Air and Space is a monthly family-focused program from the National Air and Space Museum. A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday April 8, 2024—are you ready for it? Click here to find places in DC to get solar eclipse glasses.

10:00am-11:15am & 11:30am-12:45pm: Spring Crafting Workshop at Creative Youth (Ages 4-6)
Welcome spring, with floral & pollinator themed crafting in our NEW little makers studio! Participants will choose from our assortment of art and crating materials to create a unique and colorful project. Taught by experienced early education staff, our workshops are designed to develop and promote fine motor skills, critical thinking, concentration, cognitive development and social emotional skills.

11:00am & 1:30pm: NSO Music for Young Audiences: String Thing
This daring double act of classical fun is BACK for more music and mayhem. National Symphony Orchestra musicians—bassist Paul DeNola and violinist Heather LeDoux Green—introduce young audiences to some of the greatest music ever written.

12:00pm-4:00pm: Japanese Game Day
Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season with the crew from Katsucon as they host a free Japanese Game Day at National Harbor! Japanese tabletop games will be available for all ages to learn and play. Games include: Riichi Mahjong; Karuta card game, flashcards to help teach Japanese to children (5+); Hanabi, a collaborative game where players have to give each other hints on the cards in their hands in order to make a firework display together (ages 10-15). Be sure to stick around and join for a free Cherry Blossom Film Series on the Plaza Screen at 4pm with a screening of “Belle” (A Studio Ghibli Film) presented by Plus Ultra Entertainment.

1:00pm-9:00pm: Petalpalooza
Celebrate spring at Petalpalooza, for a full day of live music and engaging activities! This day-long all-ages celebration brings art, music, and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations, a cashless beverage garden, family-friendly hands-on activities, roaming entertainers, and more, all along the banks of the Anacostia River. The evening is capped by the dazzling choreographed Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show set to music starting at 8:30 PM. This event is FREE and fun for all ages.

1:30pm-3:00pm: Art & Me | Preservation Family Workshop: Cherry Blossoms
Get creative while learning how conservators preserve art. Designed for ages 3-8. Celebrate spring and DC’s beloved cherry blossoms with a festive family workshop. The delicate sakura, or cherry blossoms, have been depicted in landscapes, figure paintings, and prints for centuries. Discover how Smithsonian art conservators preserve these beautiful yet fragile artworks. Then create and preserve your own cherry blossom–inspired art. This hands-on preservation workshop is designed for children ages three to eight and their caretakers. The program is cohosted by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This program is presented in partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival. There are two sessions, each lasting about 1.5 hours. Please register for the session that would work best with your schedule.

Sunday
11:00am-1:00pm: Rumpus Room Family Dance Party
Rumpus Room is a family-friendly daytime dance party created by DJs Marc Meistro & Steven Faith for children 0 – 10 and their guardians. The Rumpus Room, DC’s only daytime dance party for families, returns to Hi-Lawn on the rooftop of Union Market! It’s our first event of 2024 and we’re anxious to provide your Spring soundtrack. Relive your night-life glory days with your little ones in tow. Dance to a family-friendly mix of dance floor classics, current hits and guilty pleasures, all at a child-friendly volume. Hi-Lawn will be open for food and beverages at 11:00 am!

1:30 & 4:00pm: NSO Music for Young Audiences: String Thing
This daring double act of classical fun is BACK for more music and mayhem. National Symphony Orchestra musicians—bassist Paul DeNola and violinist Heather LeDoux Green—introduce young audiences to some of the greatest music ever written.

3:00pm-4:30pm: “Heart of Gold” book event with Betsy Fenzel at Red Panda Art Studio
Join for a special book event with local author Betsy Fenzel! You can learn more about the book here. Participants will take home a signed copy of the book! Betsy will guide participants through a reading, a short meditation, and a question and answer! We’ll then create our own hearts of gold using paint and 3D materials inspired by the characters in the book. Betsy will guide participants through a reading, a short meditation, and a question and answer! We’ll then create our own hearts of gold using paint and 3D materials inspired by the characters in the book.

Monday
12:00pm-4:00pm: Solar Eclipse Festival on the National Mall
Celebrate and observe the solar eclipse that will be visible all across North America! The National Air and Space Museum, in collaboration with other Smithsonian museums, NASA, NOAA, the U.S. National Science Foundation, and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory presents an outdoor festival with activities for all ages. The event will run from 12 to 4 pm along the National Mall between 4th and 12th Streets. Browse the many activity stations to view the Sun in a variety of safe telescopes, and explore the different educational offerings. Click here to find places in DC to get solar eclipse glasses.

Plan Ahead:
April 7: STEM EXPO
April 9-21: Peter Pan at National Theatre
April 11: Flowers After Hours at National Gallery
April 27: Carousel Day at Glen Echo Park

Recent Posts:
Family-friendly features of Capital One Arena
Summer Camp Guide

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

March 29, 2024

Jurassic World Live is taking over Fairfax this weekend. See Blue, T. rex and more of your favorite dinosaurs come to life at Jurassic World Live Tour! Your trip to Isla Nublar takes a terrifying turn after the Indominus rex escapes and causes chaos in the park! Join forces with a team of scientists to unravel a corrupt plan and save Jeanie, a Troodon dinosaur, from a terrible fate. Along the way, experience some of Jurassic World’s most iconic dinosaurs including Blue the Raptor, the mighty T. rex and more!

Inside Out & Backwards is for the youngest audience at Imagination Stage. It’s bedtime, and two children use their imaginations to turn their room inside out, into a wonderland of mess! While playing dress-up, a glove becomes a dancing fish, a shirt becomes a fantastical creature, and a sock dance rocks the closet! On stages through Sunday.

Cinderella A Salsa Fairy Tale is playing at Imagination Stage through April 7. What will happen to Cinderella at the ball … game? That’s the surprising question in this contemporary Latin-American Cinderella musical that weaves subtle lessons on empathy, sportsmanship, and respect into an exciting, high-stakes story. An Imagination Stage original that broke new ground in bilingual children’s theatre.

Junie B. Jones is wrapping up this weekend at Adventure Theatre. It is Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, does not want to be her best pal anymore and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring a tremendously loveable character and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your audience members’ hearts just as the books captivated an entire generation of students.

Saturday
10:00am-12:00pm: Free the Trees with Little Falls Watershed Alliance
Volunteers will be removing non-native vines and shrubs which are killing our native trees. There will be gloves and tools to borrow. The entrance to the Capital Crescent Trail is via a path at the end of the cul-de-sac of Brookeway Drive. There is parking on the street. Walk up the path to the first bench; we will meet there.

10:00am–1:00pm: Art Cart- Lines and Layers at Hirshhorn
Artists choose particular materials to tell their stories. Join us to explore the lines and layers (and layers upon layers) of Mark Bradford’s Pickett’s Charge (2017), and to tell your own stories with art. Found on the third level.

10:00am-4:30pm: Blossom Kite Festival
Join at the Washington Monument Grounds with activities, music, competitions, and performances. Kite enthusiasts, beginners, families, and friends are all welcome. This year, the theme of the kite making competition is ‘Colors of the Wind’.

2:00pm-9:00pm: Bloomaroo at The Wharf
Bloomaroo at The Wharf is FREE to attend; no tickets are needed. Drinks are available for purchase at designated event bars and at all Wharf bars and restaurants.
2pm-9pm — Listen to live music on multiple stages.
2pm-6pm — Activities throughout The Wharf include koi kite decorating, a haiku creation station, karaoke stage, face painting, live art demonstration, ikebana flower arranging, tea ceremony, Kikuyuki dancing, Nen Daiko drumming, Blossom Beauty Bar, Blossom Martini Beach Bar, and more!
~8:30pm — A stunning blossoms fireworks finale.

Sunday– Happy Easter for those who celebrate. Easter events can be found just below Monday’s events.

Monday–
Opening Day for the Washington Nationals
The Nationals return to Washington, D.C., for the team’s 20th season of baseball in our nation’s capital. First pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates is scheduled for 4:05pm, and gates open at 2:00pm

Easter Events:
Friday-Sunday: Easter Egg Hunt at Green Meadows Petting Farm
(10102 Fingerboard Rd. Ijamsville, MD 21754)
Hunts will be happening all day, between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. In the past, we had hunts at set hours but now will have them all day! We will have candy-filled eggs to hunt for.

Friday-Sunday : Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
(18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, VA 20135)
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire. The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission. Also taking place April 1.

Friday-Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm: Eggstravaganza at Tudor Place
Join us for Eggstravaganza!, a favorite spring tradition. Children of all ages can take part in a lively Easter egg hunt and egg roll on the South Lawn. Afterwards, make crafts and take a picture with the Easter Bunny. The egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m. and the egg roll begins at 10:45 a.m.

Friday-Saturday from 9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
(22200 Davis Mill Road Germantown MD 20876)
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony. Also taking place April 1, 6, 7.

Friday-Sunday (Various times): Egg Hunt at Clark’s Elioak Farm
(10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042)
Children of different ages (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs all day (10 AM, 10:30, 11 AM, 11:30, 12 noon, 12:30, 1 PM, 1:30, 2 PM, 2:30, 3 PM, 3:30, 4 PM, 4:30 and 5 PM) on both both Saturday and Sunday March 23-24 and March 30-31. On weekdays (March 25-29) the hunts will be at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 2:30 and 3:30. Our $8 per person admission fee for the farm applies, but there is no extra charge for the egg hunt. The petting farm, rides and play areas are open for you to enjoy.

Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm: Spring Fest at McLean Community Center
Join your neighbors to celebrate the changing of seasons with self-guided arts and crafts, entertainment and the opportunity for your children to get a photo with Bunny. Bring your camera and smartphone for photos! An MCC staff member will be on hand to take a photo of you and your family.

Saturday from 11:00am-1:00pm: Easter Celebration at the Collective
There will be snacks and an Easter egg hunt. Red Panda Art Studio will provide a special Easter craft.

Saturday from 11:00am-3:00pm: Spring Eggstravaganza at The St. James
Join for an eggstraordinary good time filled with an Easter Egg Hunt, Springtime activities, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and more!

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

March 22, 2024

Hopefully you have been able to walk around and see the amazing cherry blossoms and other flowers blooming in our area! We have a post with details on where to view them and many places on the list are not on the National Mall.

Matchboxcon is taking over Montgomery County Fairgrounds this weekend. MatchboxCon is a public gathering of die-cast enthusiasts, a fun convention of collectors and buyers.

Friday
6:00pm-8:00pm: Family Flashlight Egg Hunt
Enjoy games and music before the egg hunt begins and don’t forget to bring your camera to take pictures with the bunny and friends. The cost is $5 per family member, children under 12 months free. Children under the age of 5 can arrive early for an egg hunt event at 6 p.m. and the flashlight egg hunt event will begin at 8 p.m. All kids are encouraged to bring a basket to collect eggs, kids attending the 8 p.m. event should also bring a flashlight.

Saturday
9:00am-3:30pm: Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire. The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission.

9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony.

10:00am-4:00pm: Family Day: Japanese Fashion
Celebrate cherry-blossom season at the museum with a family day featuring Japanese kimono, “happi” coats and crafts for all ages. Performances of traditional Okinawan dance will showcase the colorful costume of the islands, and guests can enjoy the beautiful melodies of Japan’s national instrument, the “koto.” Design your own kimono bookmark, make a cherry blossom pendant or join us for a family-friendly tour of the galleries, including Japanese textiles on display in Irresistible: The Global Patterns of Ikat.

11:30am-3:00pm: Cherry Blossom Family Celebration
Celebrate the season of cherry blossoms with SAAM! Begin the day on the F Street Plaza (weather permitting) with a taiko drumming performance by drumming group Nen Daiko. Then head inside to the Kogod Courtyard for Japanese pop, boogie, and more with Les The DJ. Enjoy other performances while children (12 and under) make cherry-blossom themed crafts. Face painting is available for attendees ages 12 and younger. Treat yourself with tasty offerings for purchase from the Courtyard Café. Lastly, a spring-themed scavenger hunt takes you through the galleries for more cherry blossom fun.

1:00pm: Harlem Globetrotters
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters global tour as they take the court with moments of extreme basketball innovation and unparalleled fan FUN! See the Globetrotter stars LIVE as they DRIBBLE, SPIN, SLAM, and DUNK their way past their relentless rivals, the Washington Generals! You’ll be amazed by new levels of mind-blowing trick shots, expert ball-handling skills, and BIG LAUGHS with unrivaled opportunities for pre-game, post-game and in-game fan engagement!

7:30pm: Washington Spirit Homeopener
The Washington Spirit plays its first home match of the 2024 season this Saturday, March 23 at Audi Field against Bay FC.

Sunday
9:00am-6:00pm: Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
Enjoy a hayride down the Bunny Trail, race the Rubber Duck Derby, hunt for colorful eggs, exchange eggs for a goodie basket to take home, visit with the farm’s very own Country Bunny, ride pedal tractors, play in Hayromp and Playground, hop in inflatables, ride the giant slides, see bunnies, lambs and chicks, get your face painted and ride a pony.

9:00am-3:30pm: Great Country Farms Egg Hunt & Marshmallow Harvest
After a long cold winter, nothing chases away the chill like a visit to the farm! Your family won’t want to miss the first “crop” of the spring– Marshmallow Picking!! Do marshmallow peeps really grow on trees? Your children will be amazed to harvest a few marshmallows to roast on the bonfire. The Easter Bunny also hid some eggs filled with treats to enchant the children, and we need you to help us find them! There will be multiple egg hunts with timed ticket entrance. Come see spring chicks and baby animals, take a wagon ride, and rejoice that it is spring! The annual Easter Egg Hunt is a $7.99 add-on per child with your paid farm admission.

10:00am-12:00pm: Eggstravaganza at Tudor Place
Join us for Eggstravaganza!, a favorite spring tradition. Children of all ages can take part in a lively Easter egg hunt and egg roll on the South Lawn. Afterwards, make crafts and take a picture with the Easter Bunny. The egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m. and the egg roll begins at 10:45 a.m.

11:00am-6:00pm: Sakura Sunday
The wait is over and the springtime celebration of the season is here! Come to National Harbor’s official participating event of the 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival, Sakura Sunday. Join for a wide array of free cultural activities including an artisanal Japanese marketplace, cultural performances, culinary delights, a Sakura Spirits Garden and more!

2:00pm-5:00pm: Purim Family Day
Join Washington Revels and the Seth Kibel Trio for an afternoon of Klezmer music, a Purim spiel (Purim comedy), costumes, and crafts. Make a grogger (noise maker) or a golden crown and celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim at this free, family-friendly event! And, while you are here, spend some time exploring the exhibitions. Crafts and activities start at 2pm. Performances start at 3pm.

3:45pm-5:30pm: Hill Family Biking – Books and Blossoms Ride
Hill Family Biking is teaming up with DC Public Library for a ride to the stunning, new SW Library for a special story time and a librarian-guided tour of the facility with Cherry Blossom peeping opportunities all along the route. They’ll start at Eastern Market Metro and weave down 3.7 miles of some of the most bikable streets in the District to SW Library. They’ll have a scheduled exit from SW Library for anyone that wants to ride back to Eastern Market as a group.

5:00pm-6:30pm: Opening Ceremony of Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s signature Opening Ceremony is an artistic celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, and an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the United States. This unique, one-time-only performance will feature special performances from acclaimed artists with ties to both countries.

NSO in your Neighborhood has tons of events this weekend. The National Symphony Orchestra will collaborate with various communities in Wards 6 & 8 to amplify joy, unity, and shared humanity through music and the arts. Partnering with local schools, museums, and organizations, we will honor the history of these neighborhoods, while also building new connections and relationships. Events are open to the public with first-come, first-served seating, unless otherwise noted. Below is the schedule:

Friday
BOOMBOX Boxing Club
7:00 p.m., 1221 Van St SE, Suite 140, Washington, DC 20003
This concert will take place in the boxing ring of this black-owned boutique Boxing Gym.

Saturday
Culture House DC
11:30 a.m., 700 Delaware Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Housed in a former African American church, this community arts space will host a concert centered around its cherry blossom exhibits.

National Museum of the US Navy
1:00 p.m., 736 Sicard St SE, Washington, DC 20374
Established in 1961, this museum displays and preserves significant artifacts that tell the story of US naval history. The Navy Yard itself was one of the first places to employ African Americans in the city.

The Anthem
Full Orchestra Concert
7:00 p.m., 901 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
FREE full orchestra concert at this Southwest Waterfront music arena featuring local DC artists.

Sunday
Rubell Museum
11:30 a.m., 65 I St SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Rubell Museum contains an extensive collection of American and international contemporary art. The building that now houses the museum was formerly Randall Junior High School, which closed in 1978 and was a historically Black public school attended by Marvin Gaye.

Covenant Baptist UCC Church
3:00 p.m., 3845 S Capitol St SW, Washington, DC 20032
This African American congregation in Bellevue has survived racial discrimination, changing city demographics, and now gentrification. The concert will take place on Palm Sunday.

Bald Eagle Recreation Center
Full Orchestra Concert
7:00 p.m. 100 Joliet St, Washington, DC 20032
This free performance will feature mezzo-soprano, Marquita Raley-Cooper, DC artist and native.

Plan Ahead
Peter Pan at the National Theatre: April 9-21
Bourbon & Bluegrass at President Lincoln’s Cottage: May 18-19

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

February 9, 2024

It’s a busy weekend and special week ahead with the Super Bowl (Go Chiefs) & Valentine’s Day! Speaking of, have you gotten your loved ones (or yourself) some delicious chocolate yet?

All weekend
Junie B. Jones, The Musical at Adventure Theatre
It is Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, does not want to be her best pal anymore and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring a tremendously loveable character and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your audience members’ hearts just as the books captivated an entire generation of students.

Friday
6:00pm-8:00pm: Kid’s Night Out at Red Panda Art Studio: Pop Art Hearts
It’s almost Valentine’s Day! Get into the holiday spirit with a pop art-inspired Valentine’s heart project.

Saturday
9:30am & 11:00am: Saturday Morning Live! at the National Theatre
The Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) Ensemble will perform a children’s story, I Don’t Want to Be Me, by Patricia Lee Davis and Jocelyn Mack. This story is about a young African-American girl named Michelle struggling to accept her natural beauty. In the end nature and animals remind her that she is beautiful the way she is and to embrace herself. This story is about self-acceptance and embracing imperfections. Children will participate in an interactive drama about the story

10:30am: The Great Zucchini at Avalon Theatre
The Great Zucchini and Abracadabra Alex are teaming up for one unforgettable belly laughing show. Start the day laughing and clapping with your family! Two of the DC area’s favorite children’s entertainers are teaming up for a not-to-be-missed show at the historic Avalon Theatre! We anticipate this show to sell out so grab your tickets today!

10:30am-3:30pm: Family Day: Make a Magazine at The Library of Congress
In honor of Black History Month, explore the Library’s collections during a magazine-making activity for families inspired by W.E.B. DuBois’ “The Brownies’ Book,” the first magazine for African American children. Join on the mezzanine level of the Thomas Jefferson building with special appearance from honored guest Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden at 1 pm.

11:00am-4:00pm: Lunar New Year Family Festival at the National Postal Museum
The Lunar New Year is right around the corner, so come celebrate the upcoming Year of the Dragon at the National Postal Museum! Join for FREE crafts, activities, live dance performances and more! Folks from the Smithsonian’s Asian Pacific American Center (APAC) will be leading a trivia game about the Chinese zodiac and our friends from the District of Columbia Public Library are bringing their book bike stocked full of wonderful reading materials about the Lunar New Year and dragons. An interactive Lion Dance—a traditional dance often staged at Lunar New Year celebrations—will be performed throughout the day.

11:00am-3:00pm: Black History Month Family Day at Woodlawn Manor
Part of a quarterly Family Day series: Kids and families of all ages are welcome to drop-in to the Black History Month Family Day. Enjoy story times and hands-on activities celebrating African American heritage and accomplishments as told through this year’s theme: The Arts. Contribute to the “I Have a Dream Canvas”, create your own compass, and follow the path of Harriet Tubman.
The event takes place inside Woodlawn Manor.

11:15am: Storytime at National Museum of the American Indian
Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author and in consultation with Native communities. Visitors will engage with objects and photographs that deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story.

12:30pm-2:00pm: Lunar New Year Celebration with Chia Chinese Learning at Red Panda Art Studio
Join in celebrating the Lunar New Year with Chia Chinese Learning! There will be Lunar New Year themed crafts and Chinese language practice.

1:00pm-3:00pm: STEAM Saturday at National Building Museum
The second Saturday of each month, families are invited to join the National Building Museum for STEAM activities related to our new Brick City exhibition. Each activity challenges children to think creatively and experimentally using principles of design thinking and engineering.
NOTE: The beloved area, PLAY, WORK, BUILD area is being taken down on Feb. 19.

3:00pm-7:00pm: Mardi Gras at the Wharf
Watch the parade on Wharf Street, dance to live music, grab a hurricane from the District Pier Bar, and party on!

5:30pm-7:30pm: Kid’s Night Out at Red Panda Art Studio: Beaded Hearts
Drop your child(ren) off for an evening of Valentine’s themed sculpture making! We’ll use wire, beads, and paint to make our own 3D crafty hearts.

Sunday
1:45pm: DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade
The 2024 Annual Chinese Lunar New Year parade is organized by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, DC (CCBA) in partnership with the DC Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA). In the lunar calendar, it will be the year 4722! The streets of DC Chinatown will fill will revelers and spectators as we celebrate the Year of the Dragon. We will host a dynamic community-based parade that will include a range of cultural and community performers. The finale will feature a firecracker show in the middle of H Street. Come early for a bite to eat at one of the many local eateries and restaurants and then grab your curb-side vantage point to witness the colorful pageantry to come!

Recent posts:
Summer camp guide
Ski and snowboard near DC
Ice skating

Plan ahead:
Peter Pan at National Theatre

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

January 19, 2024

Hopefully your Bambinos are enjoying these beautiful snow days! It’s been so nice having a house full of kids, wet gear and hot cocoa on demand. Below are some quick links for things happening this weekend.

All weekend:
Ice skating

Washington, DC Auto Show

Frozen at The Kennedy Center

Disney Encanto X Camp

Washington Wizards

Hansel & Gretel at The Puppet Co.

Shaun the Sheep at The National Children’s Museum

Saturday:
11:00am & 1:30pm: Elena Moon Park and Friends at The Kennedy Center

1:00pm-3:00pm: Mongolian Mask Making at National Museum of Asian Art

Sunday:
10:00am-4:00pm: Building Stories at The National Building Museum

Plan Ahead:
Annie at The National begins on Tuesday

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

January 5, 2024

Happy New Year! We may have a winter mix tomorrow so check the links before heading out as the the weather may delay or cancel activities. Below are activities happening indoors as well as light displays you still have time to marvel at.

Indoor-
Hot Wheels Champion Experience
Using the latest 3D multimedia projection technology and personalization Hot Wheels Champion Experience combines exhilarating digital and hands-on play for fans of all ages in a 16,000 sq ft immersive environment. Collect exclusive digital badges, video, and other digital memorabilia across 10 exciting challenges.

The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe at Adventure Theatre
In a two-person version of the classic tale, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy discover a secret portal to a magical world called Narnia. With an evil White Witch ruling the kingdom, can Lucy, her new friend Mr. Tumnus, and her family band together to save this land from the eternal winter?

A Year With Frog & Toad at Imagination Stage
Inspired by the acclaimed children’s books, this Broadway musical favorite follows two best friends with opposite personalities as they wake up from hibernation and enjoy hilarious adventures through the seasons. Join cheerful Frog and grumpy Toad as they eat too many cookies, fly a faulty kite, and celebrate the holidays together, learning valuable life lessons along the way. Don’t miss out on this light-hearted, musical celebration of friendship, sprinkled with nostalgia and holiday fun.

Jungle Discovery at Imagination Stage
Jungle Discovery is an engaging and immersive interactive experience for children ages 3-6 and their adults. Participants enter a fantastical jungle world where they may dress up as exotic creatures and explore the beautiful flora and fauna. Led by Jungle Guides, participants may choose to play in the jungle leaves, add flowers, play with sound using a rain stick, draw on the Mirror Mural, and make a warm nest to hide in. There will be plenty of fun surprises in this multi-sensory environment.

Encanto X Camp
La Familia Madrigal are opening their doors and your family is invited! It’s the world’s first immersive Disney Encanto experience: a real-life Casita, complete with secret passages, interactive magic, live music, and surprises behind every magic door.

Disney’s Frozen at The Kennedy Center
From the producer of The Lion King and Aladdin, Frozen, the Tony® Award–nominated Best Musical, is now on tour across North America. The critics rave, “It’s simply magical!” (LA Daily News). Featuring the songs you love from the Oscar®-winning film, plus an expanded score by the film’s songwriters, Oscar winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez and EGOT winner Robert Lopez.

Moonshot Theatre at The Kennedy Center
The Moonshot Studio at the REACH celebrates creativity and the artist in everyone through hands-on art-making. The recommended age is 5 years old and above. Stop by anytime from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on (most) Saturdays & Sundays to explore our projects.

Lights-
Georgetown Glow– Through January 7
The 9th Edition of Georgetown GLOW invites visitors to experience a new season of light through outdoor public art. GLOW features five works and artists. Artworks are lit nightly from 5 to 10 p.m

Light Yards– Through January 7
Yards Park will be merry and bright with the eighth-annual return of Light Yards, an interactive light installation free to the public. This year’s installation, Swinging Bells, is a community favorite allowing guests to become a part of the artwork. The five, 13-foot tall bells play a jingle as you swing and are the perfect stop for friends and family to play and take photos!

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– Through January 7
Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights in Vienna, Virginia. The garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated walk of lights. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Purchase tickets online.

Bull Run Festival of Lights- Through January 7
Experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow.

Saturday–
10:00am-3:00pm: First Saturday at The National Gallery of Art
Kick off the new year with a day of mindfulness and art! Experience a guided meditation surrounded by the transcendental color field paintings of Mark Rothko. Plus, watch kid-friendly short films, experiment with color at Drop-In Art Making, dive into books in the library, and more! All activities are free, and most are first come, first served.

12:00pm: Pierce Mill Tour
Stop in anytime between 12pm and 4pm to learn about the mill.

Sunday-
10:00am: King Bullfrog Concert at Hook Hall
Sundays at Hook Hall is all about FAMILY FUN! Bring the kiddos for some dancing and singing with different musical guests joining us each week! There will be coffee and drinks available for purchase for the parents plus kid-friendly breakfast and snacks available for everyone while you enjoy the entertainment.

Plan ahead-
Annie at The National: January 23-28
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most. Annie runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes including one intermission.

February 3-4: Sleepover at the National Archives
Have you ever wondered what happens in a museum after the building closes and the lights go out? Now’s your chance!

Recent post-
12 resorts with skiing and winter activities

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

December 1, 2023

It’s that time of year when holiday events take over the town! See the posts below for all of the details:
Holiday lights, Christmas trees and holiday markets
Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
Hanukkah celebrations

**Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights**

All weekend

The Polar Express at B&O Railroad Museum
Climb aboard The Polar Express to create a Christmas memory that you and your family will cherish forever! Come in your pajamas as a family to watch the live performance of The Polar Express. Once on the train, the classic Christmas tale will be performed and little ones will have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive their first gift of Christmas! Santa’s helpers will greet you upon arrival to the North Pole, where you can take pictures with Santa and have lots of holiday fun.

Annual MERRI & Bright Holiday Market at Merriweather District
Have yourself a MERRI little holiday season with a visit to the annual Merriweather District Holiday Market. Support unique small businesses as you venture through a variety of holiday pop-ups from regional vendors. Warm up with hot cocoa from The Charmery, sip some wine in the outdoor wine chalet and enjoy carolers while checking off your holiday shopping list. ‘Tis the season to celebrate with Merriweather District!

Holly Trolley Fest at The National Capital Trolley Museum
Visit with Santa down a mile-long woodland railroad, featuring a holiday ride on historic street cars. In addition, enjoy a holiday model railroad display in collaboration with the Washington, Virginia & Maryland Garden Railway Society, crafts for children, photo opportunities, and more. Come join for this special holiday event!

Arts on the Horizon: Winter Festival
Celebrate the season with Arts on the Horizon! They’re hosting a weekend of winter wonderland fun for the whole family. Come meet and greet some of your favorite AOTH characters, make winter wonderland crafts, participate in one of the interactive storytimes, share the holiday cheer in a winter-themed sing-a-long, and more!

A Year With Frog & Toad at Imagination Stage
Inspired by the acclaimed children’s books, this Broadway musical favorite follows two best friends with opposite personalities as they wake up from hibernation and enjoy hilarious adventures through the seasons. Join cheerful Frog and grumpy Toad as they eat too many cookies, fly a faulty kite, and celebrate the holidays together, learning valuable life lessons along the way. Don’t miss out on this light-hearted, musical celebration of friendship, sprinkled with nostalgia and holiday fun.

Saturday

9:00am: Holidays at the Tavern
For generations, the Great Falls Tavern at C&O Canal hosted gatherings and festivities. Join us in kicking off the winter season by exploring holiday traditions and sharing in the spirit of community, both past and present. Come enjoy a day of holiday music, crafts, and a celebration of community!

10:00am-2:00pm: Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center 20th Anniversary Celebration
Twenty years ago this December, our Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center opened to the public on December 15, 2003. Since then we have welcomed over 24 million people through the Udvar-Hazy Center’s doors. Join us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Udvar-Hazy Center with a day packed full of everything you know and love about the museum. From a behind-the-scenes look at the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar to talks with curators about your favorite artifacts to hands-on activities your family will love, this event will highlight why the Udvar-Hazy Center is a must-visit destination and look forward to what’s next.

10:00am-4:00pm: Winter Festival at the US Arboretum
Join the Friends of the National Arboretum for the 3rd annual Winter Festival at the National Arboretum! Shop from local vendors at the Holiday Market and enjoy free holiday-themed family activities hosted by DC Child Care Connections. Have a hassle-free holidays and get all your shopping done in one place.

11:00am-1:00pm: 52nd Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants and was named after Scotsman John Alexander who owned the land that became Alexandria. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands, as well as terriers and hounds, community groups and more.

1:00pm-4:00pm: Bethesda’s Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the holiday season on Norfolk and Cordell Avenues in downtown Bethesda with Santa Claus, live ice sculpting, live music, face painting, games and more! Please bring a new toy for Toys for Tots.

3:00pm-8:00pm: City Ridge Tree Lighting and URBN Market
City Ridge is celebrating the holiday season by hosting fun, seasonal activities all weekend long with URBNmarket. On Saturday, the celebration will culminate in a tree lighting ceremony featuring a performance and sing-along with Children’s Chorus of Washington.

5:30pm: Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront will shine for the 23rd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon as dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, activities and more.

Sunday

11:00am-4:00pm: City Ridge Tree Lighting and URBN Market
City Ridge is celebrating the holiday season by hosting fun, seasonal activities all weekend long with URBNmarket. On Saturday, the celebration will culminate in a tree lighting ceremony featuring a performance and sing-along with Children’s Chorus of Washington.

1:30pm-2:30pm: Dreidel Workshop at Home Depot
Do you already have a menorah for Chanukah and looking for something new?! Join us at the Home Depot for a dreidel workshop! Driedel games! Chocolate gelt coins! And your very own dreidel game to bring home!