Beltway Bambinos

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

Family friendly performances at the Kennedy Center

NSO Family Concert: Because (World Premiere)

March 5-6, 2022: NSO Music for Young Audiences: I Dream of the Moon & Xavier’s New Friends
I Dream of the Moon (A Young Boy’s Adventure Through Space) by Keeghan Fountain tells the story of a young boy’s journey from his own backyard to the furthest reaches of the moon in a non-verbal performance on the vibraphone with projected images of original artwork by Nehemiah Russell. Xavier’s New Friends by Peter Gilbert introduces the main percussion family instruments through Xavier the Xylophone as he searches for percussion friends to join his band. Student musicians from the University of Maryland will join Scott to tell this story and highlight the rhythmic and melodic facets of the percussion section. Sunday, March 5 at 4pm is a sensory friendly performance. Most enjoyed by 5+.

March 11-12, 2022: “Sweet” Cherie Mitchell-Agurs
Experience the rhythm and funk of Go-go music. “SWEET” CHERIE MITCHELL-AGURS presents a performance for young people and families combining high-energy concert style presentation and dynamic musicianship. Mitchell-Agurs is Music Director of Washington D.C.’s own exciting all-female Go-go group, the Be’la Dona Band, and a six-time “Instrumentalist of the Year” for the Washington Area Music Association. Most enjoyed by 8+.

March 18-20, 2022: Pierce Freelon
Listen to the past blend with the present in a cosmic journey. Grammy-nominated producer and accomplished musician PIERCE FREELON brings two projects to the Kennedy Center displaying his inventiveness and creativity. Following his critically acclaimed debut children’s album D.a.D. in 2020, Pierce’s Grammy-nominated 2021 Black to the Future (ages 5+) features elements of Afrofuturism, Black history, and archival voices to touch on imagination, arts, science, and technology through a Black lens. Pierce is joined by his mother, jazz singer and six-time Grammy Award® nominee NNENNA FREELON for one performance. Most enjoyed by 5+.

March 20, 2022: NSO Family Concert: Because (World Premiere)
Little things can have a big effect. Because Kennedy Center Education Artist-in-Residence MO WILLEMS wrote a powerful story of how chance, discovery, and persistence changed the life of a young girl, he needed an illustrator to bring it to life. Because illustrator AMBER REN related to the hero of the story, she created magical illustrations. Because the book moved them, the NSO wanted to turn it into an orchestral piece. Because acclaimed composer and violinist JESSIE MONTGOM­­­­­ERY was also changed by music as a young person, she composed the score. Because is a world premiere symphonic exploration that you and your loved ones want to see and hear to become part of the story. Sunday, March 20 at 2pm is a sensory friendly performance. Most enjoyed by 5+.

April 9-10, 2022: NSO Music for Young Audiences: Super Cello! (World Premiere)
Music to the rescue! The city is safe with the help of a unique cellist: professional musician by day, superhero by night. SCOTTIE ROWELL of Atlanta’s TELLER PRODUCTIONS and NSO cellist DAVID TEIE unite to tell a fantastic story using puppets, props, and plenty of music to help a very super musician save the day. Sunday, April 10 at 4pm is a sensory friendly performance. Most enjoyed by 3+.

May 15, 2022: NSO Family Concert: Philharmonia Fantastique: The Making of an Orchestra
Join a concerto for orchestra and animation. Dynamic concerto meets animated film! Through a mesmerizing hybrid of animated and live action filming, follow a magical Sprite as it embarks on a musical journey through the inner workings of an orchestra. Violin strings vibrate, brass valves slice air, and drum heads resonate like you’ve never seen before—all set to live music from members of the NSO. By the film’s end, the orchestra comes together in a spectacular finale! Philharmonia Fantastique was written by Kennedy Composer-in-Residence MASON BATES, and co-created with Academy Award-nominated director/writer GARY RYDSTROM, and Academy Award nominated animator JIM CAPOBIANCO. Sunday, May 15 at 2pm is a sensory friendly performance. Enjoyed by all ages.

2021 guide to holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC


NSO at the Anthem: Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert

Winterfest at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 19, 2021- Jan. 2, 2022
Get three winter-themed shows for the price of one! Adventure brings favorites from the digital Jingle in July festival to the live stage.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at The National: Nov. 23, 2021–Dec. 5, 2021
DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL broke box office records for two consecutive years on Broadway during its holiday engagements at the St. James and Hilton theatres in New York. Since then, more than 2.1 million theatregoers across America have been delighted by this heart-warming holiday musical, which The New York Times praised as “100 times better than any bedtime story” and the Gannett papers hailed as “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults.”  

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 24-Dec. 27, 2021
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Experience Charles Dickens’ beloved Yuletide story of transformation and redemption at Ford’s Theatre. Director of Artistic Programming José Carrasquillo directs a reimagined production based on Michael Wilson’s beloved Radio Play adaptation, featuring traditional caroling and new staging throughout. Craig Wallace returns as the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge who encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future on a memorable journey. Length: 75 minutes. No intermission.. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

A Christmas Carol at Olney Theatre: Nov. 26-Dec. 26, 2021
It wouldn’t be the holidays without Olney’s favorite Christmas tradition. Paul Morella’s captivating solo performance of the Dickens classic keeps audiences coming back season after season. They come for the masterful storytelling and come back for the way Paul keeps this tale fresh, year-after-year. Experience the unforgettable characters and vivid imagery as Charles Dickens originally intended  – in his own words – and rediscover this timeless classic presented in a masterful solo performance. Adapted from Dickens’ original novella and reading tour, Morella’s solo version will transport you back to Victorian England and into the heart of this classic morality tale. This critically acclaimed production has become a holiday must-see. 

The Nutcracker on Strings at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo: Nov. 26, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
Join the Puppet Co. for our 33rd annual The Nutcracker! This time honored seasonal celebration includes Tchaikovsky’s familiar story of Clara and her prince, with some Puppet Co. nursery rhyme spin.

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 27-Dec. 26, 2021
Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical score, this celebrated classic comes to life with intricate, stunning set designs, Experience the magic of The Washington Ballet’s charmingly-DC The Nutcracker! This celebrated production is set in historic 1882 Georgetown with George Washington, King George III, and other historical figures. Join us again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical score, this celebrated classic comes to life with intricate, stunning set designs, original period costumes, and over 100 dancers including students and trainees from The Washington School of Ballet. It has become the signature Nutcracker of the nation’s capital. With 30 scheduled performances, The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker will transport audiences of all ages into a winter wonderland that has become a lasting holiday tradition not to be missed.

Christmas with Cantus Lessons and Carols for Our Time at Wolf Trap: Dec. 3, 2021
The ethereal vocal ensemble Cantus returns to The Barns for an evening of holiday favorites. From Latin hymnody to Spanish folksong, from Sacred Harp to Irving Berlin, this is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season.

Encore Stage & Studio present- Enchanted Bookshop Christmas: Dec. 3-5, 2021
It’s four days before Christmas and Miss Margie, the scatterbrained owner of the shop, is thrilled to have two very special guests — her serious-minded sister Ellen and book-loving niece Annabelle. Ellen was recently laid off from her position as an astronomy professor, and she’s certain she’ll never find a job again. Her luck changes, however, when high-tech billionaire Philip Brantley stops in at the shop and Margie convinces him to hire Ellen for his new space project. With Ellen out shopping, Margie has a brainstorm to wrap the bookmark that Philip wrote his phone number on and give it to Ellen as a Christmas present. After all, what could possibly go wrong?

Messiah- G. F. Handel at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 4-5, 2021
Join Washington National Cathedral for Handel’s beloved “Messiah,” and experience this Christmas classic in a space as Handel would have intended. The Cathedral’s soaring architecture and Gothic splendor offers a space unlike any other in Washington to experience Handel’s masterpiece. There is a family show at 12:00pm on December 4 is an abbreviated performance of “Messiah” highlights, perfect for busy families with young children. Experience the best of “Messiah” with the whole family.

Holiday Sing-A-Long (from home) at Wolf Trap: Dec. 4 &18, 2021
Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is pleased to continue the longstanding community tradition of the Holiday Sing-A-Long, this year with a virtual twist! Traditionally, this event combined a festive instrumental performance by the United States Marine Band and a sing-a-long of traditional holiday carols led by more than 500 local singers. This year’s event will be presented in a digital format and we hope that you will participate from the comfort of your home. The program will feature performances by some of The Barns at Wolf Trap’s favorite artists and will commence with a program of festive songs pre-recorded by the USMB at the Barns at Wolf Trap and conclude with a festive at-home sing-a-long. Join for the virtual performances on December 4 and 18, 2021, gathered safely with family, cocoa, and cookies.

Manheim Steamroller Christmas at Strathmore: Dec. 4, 2021
Do you remember the first time you heard Mannheim Steamroller Christmas? This classic album has become synonymous with the season and become a treasured holiday tradition for millions over the past 35 years. For this special 35th anniversary performance, Mannheim Steamroller will perform the album that started it all, Christmas, live, in its entirety. Experience the magic as the spirit of the holiday season comes alive with dazzling multimedia effects and the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller.  

NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas featuring Gerald Clayton, Patrice Rushen, and Eric Reed. at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 4, 2021
Your favorite holiday classics as you’ve never heard them! The Kennedy Center and NPR present A Jazz Piano Christmas, the annual sell-out event featuring today’s best jazz pianists performing the most loved seasonal music.

NSO at the Anthem: Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert: Dec. 8, 2021
Join the NSO in an exciting new atmosphere as the musicians ditch traditional tuxedos and evening gowns—deconstructing the concert experience without deconstructing the music. Don your favorite holiday sweater (ugly or not) and join us for an evening filled with holiday spirit (and holiday spirits). This performance takes place at The Anthem.

Notes of Honor: NSO Salutes the Military A Holiday Pops with Ingrid Michaelson at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 9-11, 2021
Notes of Honor: NSO Salutes the Military invites all current, retired, veteran, and prior service members to a special FREE performance of A Holiday Pops with Ingrid Michaelson!

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 9-19, 2021
As the world’s first holiday show highlighting the African American tradition of stepping, the Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is a feast for the eyes and ears. Fabulous and furry friends from the Arctic Kingdom – Popper the Penguin along with polar bear twins, Pinky and Polo-ensure a fun and exciting experience for the entire family! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is the most vibrant holiday celebration in town! This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika!

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 10-12 & 17-19, 2021
Magic is just around the corner in a rustic village in Europe! As the Winter days grow short, three wandering performers from far-off lands weave music, dance and stories from their cultures into an enchanting and dramatic tale of the Winter Solstice. But when the sun finally sets on the longest night — and darkness seems to stretch on without end — these “Celestial Fools” lead us on a journey into the heavens to reclaim the light and restore its warmth to the world. The cast of over 100, ages 9-90, invites you to join tradition bearers Karim Nagi, Shizumi Shigeto Manale and Mark Novak for this timeless fable. Sing along and dance through the aisles to eclectic instrumentals by Seth Kibel, Vladimir Fridman and Bob Abbott, with the glorious tones of the Washington Revels Brass. And as we prepare to call back the Sun, let’s light a candle, deck the hall, and revel in this exuberant blend of seasonal celebrations from around the world and across the centuries. Welcome Yule!

An Irish Carol at Keegan Theatre: Dec. 10-31, 2021
An original work by Keegan company member Matthew J. Keenan, AN IRISH CAROL is an homage to Dickens’ classic – told as only the Irish can. This comic and touching play, set in a modern Dublin pub, follows one evening in the life of David, a wealthy pub owner who has lost touch with his own humanity in the interest of self-protection and material success. But on this Christmas Eve – challenged by a voice from the past, provoked by those in the present, and faced with the reality of a lonely future – David’s life may change forever.

A Celtic Christmas with Seán Heely Celtic Band at Strathmore: Dec. 11, 2021
Join award-winning Irish fiddler Seán Heely and a cast of nationally-acclaimed Celtic performers on a magical journey through Scotland and Ireland during the holidays. The fiddle and bagpipes will sweep you away to Christmas time and Winter Solstice celebrations along with featured dancers from Scottish and Irish traditions that are sure to lift your holiday spirits and warm your heart. Kilts and tartan abound as the show travels through ancient Gaelic carols and songs, tucked in perfectly with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies with a Celtic twist.

Joy of Christmas at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 11-12, 2021
From all corners of Washington National Cathedral, voices rise, filling the arches with echoes of holidays past and the wonder of things to come. It’s time to surround yourself with feelings of comfort and warmth that come when the weather is cold and the music is bright. It’s time to restart the tradition of singing together in a space of beauty and community. Washington, D.C.’s holiday tradition since 1976 is back. Seraph Brass and Cathedral organist George Fergus join Maestro Steven Fox and the Cathedral Choral Society for an unforgettable return to choral music.

Holiday Cheer at The Performing Arts Factory: Dec. 11 & 12, 2021
A Cabaret of Holiday Songs from some of your favorite Other Voices Theatre performers!

The Mini-Nut at Montgomery College

The Mini-Nut at Montgomery College: Dec. 11 & 12, 2021
The Mini-Nut is MYB’s abbreviated version of The Nutcracker geared towards younger audiences. This one hour version is a great introduction to ballet for our youngest theatre goers. The performance is approximately one hour long with no intermission. A perfect holiday mini-treat!

Corduroy at Imagination Stage: Dec. 11, 2021-Jan. 24, 2022
We all need a friend, and Lisa is instantly drawn to the perfectly imperfect teddy bear on display at the department store. If only she can convince her stressed-out mother to buy Corduroy for her! Meanwhile, Corduroy is determined to find his missing button and become worthy of going to a real home. After the store has closed, he goes on a hilariously destructive search–with the Night Watchman in comical pursuit. Full of mischief and clowning, this story of unconditional love captures both the humanity and the merriment of the holiday season. ASL-Interpreted performance: January 2 at 1:30 p.m. Sensory-Friendly performance: January 16 at 11:00 a.m.

Noseda conducts Handel’s Messiah (Part I) & Bach’s Magnificat at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 16-19, 2021
Don’t miss the glorious return of Washington, D.C.’s favorite holiday tradition! For the very first time, Gianandrea Noseda conducts the NSO in selections from the quintessential musical crown of the season: Handel’s Messiah. Experience the beauty of “Rejoice,” “For unto us a Child is born,” “Comfort Ye,” and more iconic music of Messiah’s Part I—coupled with Bach’s celebratory showpiece Magnificat.

The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas at Strathmore: Dec. 16-17, 2021
Jingle all the way! Join two-time Grammy winners—the DC region’s dynamic Washington Chorus—for a festival family holiday concert like nothing else. “A Candlelight Christmas” features The Washington Chorus (Eugene Rogers, Artistic Director) with brass, organ, and special guests in this spirited holiday music experience. Delight in our signature candlelight processional; raise your voice in our audience carol sing-along; and leave humming with a candy cane and a heart filled with holiday cheer. “A Candlelight Christmas” is among the DC region’s most treasured holiday traditions—join The Washington Chorus in community and song for this unforgettable holiday experience. This event is not presented by Strathmore. 

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at MGM National Harbor: Dec. 16-19, 2021
Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the stage in this popular and dazzling family holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family.

The Nutcracker at Montgomery College: Dec.17–27, 2021
Magical dolls, life-sized mice, dancing snowflakes, and an enchanting kingdom of sweets return to stage this holiday season for Maryland Youth Ballet’s LIVE production of The Nutcracker. Set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the incredible dancing and dazzling costumes bring to life the story of Marie and her Nutcracker Prince. Join us back at the theater for the full-length classic choreographed by Artistic Director, Olivier Muñoz.

Christmas with the King’s Singers at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 17, 2021
Celebrate the magic of the Christmas season with one of Britain’s most beloved vocal ensembles, The King’s Singers, in their only Washington-area appearance. With Christmas favorites to lesser-known gems to some brand-new surprises, there’s no better way to embrace the warmth of the season than with these six talented singers. Featuring songs from their albums “Finding Harmony,” “Christmas” and “The King’s Singers Christmas Songbook.” You are invited to come home to the Cathedral this Christmas to embrace everything that Christmas and the Cathedral have to offer.

A Family Christmas at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 18 & 25, 2021
Bring the kids for an unforgettable holiday experience as the Choral Arts Chorus fills the concert hall with holiday classics just for them!

A Candlelight Christmas at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 19-22, 2021
Jingle all the way! Join two-time Grammy winners – the DC region’s dynamic Washington Chorus for a festive family holiday concert like nothing else!

The Hip Hop Nutcracker at Strathmore: Dec. 20-22, 2021
A holiday mash-up for the whole family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker returns to Strathmore. This contemporary dance spectacle is a remixed and reimagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event. The Hip Hop Nutcracker is brought to life by a powerhouse cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set. Grab your family and friends and let the dynamic performers of The Hip Hop Nutcracker take you on a journey that celebrates love, community and the magic of the holiday season.

Christmas Music at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 20 & 24, 2021
Awaken your holiday spirit with a concert of festive musical treats performed by the Choral Arts Symphonic Chorus and Youth Choir accompanied by a full orchestra in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall.

Film: Elf (Part of December Traditions) at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 22, 2021
Join for FREE film screenings in the Justice Forum every Wednesday at 6 p.m. and FREE performances in the Grand Foyer Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 6 p.m. A limited number of advance reservations are available, but most seats will be be available for walk-ups on the day of the performance. 

Christmas Day Organ Recital at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 25, 2021
Cathedral organists Thomas Sheehan and George Fergus present a program of festive Christmas music on the Cathedral’s Great Organ. Make a cup of cocoa, wear your holiday-appropriate ugly sweaters and socks, and celebrate Christmas with us! If you’re planning to attend the recital in person, the concert is free and is not ticketed.

Related posts:
Winter bucket list
Gift guide
Hanukkah celebrations
Holiday light displays
Ice skating
Holiday gift guide and stocking stuffers
Toys & games that are educational
Indoor & outdoor must-haves
Subscription boxes for children
Holiday tea

Live outdoor music in and around Washington, DC this summer

One of my favorite parts about summer in Washington, DC are the free outdoor concerts and movies. What seems like an eternity ago (please time slow down) we took a sporadic drive to the Mall with our then three year old where we walked around, played some ball by the reflecting pool and headed towards the Capitol where the U.S. Air Force Band was performing a free concert. A huge crowd was gathered on the steps and in chairs taking in the gorgeous evening and patriotic tunes. This post will help you take advantage of some great music that will allow you to relax after a long day (and year) and see a bit of our city while doing so. Get out and enjoy the lighter evenings, let your kids stay up a little longer and enjoy the music our city offers.

The Yards Park Friday Night Concert Series
The free Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series is back for its 11th Season! Every Friday night this summer, head to Yards Park around 7pm to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes walk from the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike.

Glen Echo Summer Concert Series
Concerts are free and open to the public and feature a variety of local bands and musical genres. Music in the series typically ranges widely – from Country to Reggae, Swing to Latin Jazz, African to Cajun and Blues. Bench seating is provided in the pavilion, and folding chairs are also allowed. A coloring table to help keep small children busy during the concerts is also provided. Visitors may also enjoy the music from the picnic tables just outside the pavilion; many families enjoy bringing a picnic dinner to eat while listening. Dancers are welcome as well. For those who are still not comfortable with in-person events, the concerts will also be live streamed on YouTube and also available to watch later. Concerts are on Thursday’s starting July 1 – Sept. 9.

The Patio Stage at Strathmore
Designed to provide a spacious yet intimate experience, The Patio Stage features socially distanced tables that seat up to 4 people. This allows plenty of space for you and your pod in a venue that seats just 124. The Patio Stage’s lineup highlights what Strathmore does best—you’ll find music’s brightest names, like Wynton Marsalis, The Lone Bellow, Sophia Rei, and Oliver Wood of The Wood Brothers; revel in contemporary and chamber music; soak in international sounds; and be introduced to your new favorite musician from our Artists in Residence program.

Wolf Trap Children’s Shows
Performances range from music and dance—interactive, educational, and fun. All shows are about an hour long and are perfect for children ages 4 and up. A list of rescheduled and postponed events impacted by the pandemic can be viewed here. August and September 2021 performances are subject to change depending on COVID-related conditions and artist availability. View Summer 2021 policies and guidelines.

Wolf Trap National Park
Offering a variety of shows outdoor. A perfect way to spend a summer evening, if you get lawn tickets don’t forget a picnic.

Jammin Java Outdoor Concert Series
Returning for our second year of outdoor concerts. This year they celebrate Jammin Java’s 20th anniversary with a jam-packed calendar. All outdoor shows are free, and donations-only shows. You can enjoy food and drinks in the outdoor seating and limited-capacity indoor seating. Limited capacity, first come first served, weather permitting.

A Capitol Fourth at the U.S. Capitol
In 2021, America’s Independence Day celebration, A Capitol Fourth, will mark 41 years on the air. The show is broadcast to millions of viewers on PBS and streaming platforms as well as to our troops watching around the world on the American Forces Network. Details on the website as to how and where to attend in person.

Olney Outdoors
The Root Family Stage is an open-air home for the summer with physically-distanced seating on blankets or in chairs. Or if you’re ready for it, the raised bleacher seats are available at full capacity. You can reserve a “pod” of seats for parties of 4, 3, 2 or even a solo. Masks are encouraged, but not required for vaccinated patrons, except indoors for use of the restrooms or in case of rain. Expect a variety of shows through September.

Live military band concerts are free and no tickets are required unless noted:
U.S. Navy Band
U.S. Air Force Band– Fridays at the Air Force Memorial at 7:30 p.m., and Saturdays at National Harbor at 7 p.m. 
U.S. Marine Band– Every third Wednesday of the month from June to August at Yard’s Park
U.S. Army Band

Looking for a music festival?
M3 Music Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion will take you back to the 80’s
Distrito Music Fest is a one-day Latin American music festival at Union Stage in Washington, D.C.
Darn Good Music Festival in Centreville, Virginia feature 14 live bands in 2 days

Venues reopening:
The Anthem, Comet Ping Pong, Nationals Park, The Hamilton, Howard Theatre The Birchmere, Jammin Java, The Kennedy Center, Pearl Street Warehouse, The Pocket DC and the big outdoor venues.

Build your library with Bookroo

No details for this season yet:
Jazz in the Sculpture Garden
Kids in Canal
Strathmore’s Backyard Theatre for Children
Strathmore Kids
Friday Night Live Concert Series at Rockville Town Square
Rock at the Row

A frozen concert that appeals to children AND adults alike + giveaway

This post is written by Sam Sessa. You may have caught wind earlier this week of the upcoming concert he is bringing to the Miracle Theatre. Sessa is a former stay at home dad to 2 boys and lives in Baltimore. He works at NPR music station 89.7 WTMD as the station’s Baltimore music and community engagement manager. A couple years ago, he started producing a series of concerts for kids called Saturday Morning Tunes. The idea is to put on concerts that adults want to see, at times when they can bring their kids. He is debuting a “Frozen” live show, featuring classically trained opera singers The Outcalls in Washington, DC on February 22 at the Miracle Theatre. They normally perform with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra but Sam somehow convinced them to dress up like Princesses Anna and Elsa and learn these songs! Sam is going to be sharing some music-related posts with us over the next few months and hopefully he will bring DC more of his shows this year!

When we were kids, children’s music was pretty bad. Not that we knew it back then — at the time, Barney and Raffi seemed just fine.

Now that we’re adults, we know better, and want better for our own little ones. That’s why, in the past 10 years, a whole new genre of cool music for kids has appeared. It’s called “kindie” (a mash-up of “kid-friendly” and “indie”), and there are tons of bands making children’s music that parents can not only tolerate but enjoy.

You might recognize some of the more popular kindie artists, because they’re bands we loved in the ’90s who are now writing songs for their own kids: Barenaked Ladies, Presidents of the United States of America (remember “Lump” and “Peaches?”) and Lisa Loeb. That’s not to mention the dozens of talented bilingual kindie artists, with  albums in Spanish, Portuguese, Hindi and other languages.

Here are five of the top kindie albums from the past few years. 

“Arriba Abajo” by 123 Andres (2016)

One of the best kindie artists is right here in our backyard: D.C.-based 123 Andres won a Latin Grammy for this album, which has several songs in Spanish, followed by many of the same songs in English. The songs are bright and sunny, and it’s a fun way to teach your kids a new language.

“Foreverywhere” by STEVENSTEVEN (2017)

What do you get when you a member of the experimental indie rock band the Flaming Lips teams up with the host of Nickelodeon’s “Blues Clues” to make a children’s album? The answer: “Foreverywhere,” a gorgeous psychedelic record with tunes like “A Fact is a Gift That You Give Your Brain.” Imagine Pink Floyd if they wrote songs about unicorns.

“Falu’s Bazaar” by Falu (2018)

A native of Bombay, India, Falu has collaborated with a who’s-who of the music industry, including Yo-Yo Ma, Wyclef Jean and Ricky Martin. After having her own son, Falu set out to create “Falu’s Bazaar,” a musical journey through South Asian culture. The songs weave in and out of English and Hindi, and “Falu’s Bazaar” is a great starting point for exploring the world of Hindi music with your children.

“I’m From the Sun” by Gustafer Yellowgold (2019)

The New York Times has called Gustafer Yellowgold “a cross between ‘Yellow Submarine’ and Dr. Seuss,” and for good reason. The project of singer/songwriter Morgan Taylor, Gustafer Yellowgold reaches back to the golden harmonies and power pop of the 1960s and 1970s and comes up with an irresistible mix of melodies on this new album.

“We Dream in 3d” by SaulPaul (2017)

Family friendly rapper SaulPaul was named Austinite of the Year in 2017, and his song “Rise (Remix)” — from this album — became one of the top songs on SiriusXM radio. SaulPaul enlists a cast of children singers to help with the lyrics, and the result is a mix of charming and tasteful rap tunes.

GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a family-four pack of tickets to the Frozen concert on February 22 at the Miracle Theatre. Make sure you are following Saturday Morning Tunes and then comment on our Instagram telling us you’d like to attend the concert. Winner will be announced on Friday.

Our favorite family-friendly summer activities in and around Washington, DC

Summer is my all-time favorite time in Washington, DC, despite the hot temperatures, there is something always going on. An outdoor festival, fountains to splash around in, an outdoor sports game to watch or live music are a few of our go-to’s. We want to help you kick off your summer the right way so you don’t miss out on some of the great summer events in Washington, DC.

Photo courtesy of DC Mosquito Squad
  • Jazz in the Sculpture Garden: The Jazz in the Garden Series begins its 19th season in May. The free concert series features jazz artists performing a wide variety of styles—Brazilian Folk Jazz, Alternative Modern, Blues, Reggae, World Steam Punk, Afro Funk, African Fusion Jazz, Cuban Charanga, Django Guitar, New Orleans Jazz, and more—every Friday evening from 5:00 to 8:30 in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Bring a picnic, buy a beverage, relax and enjoy the atmosphere, sculptures and music.
  • Local splash parks
  • Wolf Trap children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods: June 18- Aug 3, 2019- Across the meadow from the Filene Center, literally tucked in the woods at Wolf Trap National Park, the Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods has been a summer tradition for generations of children and families. Performances range from music and dance to puppetry and storytelling—interactive, educational, and fun. All shows are about an hour long and are perfect for children ages 4 and up. Event calendar can be found here.
  • Play in your own yard! Our family loves good old fashioned chalk and bubbles on our front walkway but we also play tons of catch, water play and scootering. This wouldn’t be possible if we didn’t have our yard sprayed by Mosquito Squad. The first year we lived in our house we weren’t able to sit on our front porch for more than a minute without being bitten by mosquitos. Mosquito Squad has made an amazing difference and after our treatment the mosquitos are gone! What I love most is that their spray techniques allow for kids and pets to return to playing just 30 minutes after service.
  • Pirate Adventure on the Chesapeake: Boat + Annapolis + Pirate Adventure = Outdoor Perfection
  • Smithsonian Folklife Festival: The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is June 29 & 30, 2019 and you will experience living traditions from around the world. The goal is to work with communities to strengthen and preserve their cultures and share them with you on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
  • Strathmore Backyard Theatre: Enrich your little ones’ summer Thursday mornings in July with sunshine, music, and laughter at Strathmore’s Backyard Theater for Kids. This eclectic program is the perfect summer escape for busy families. Pack a picnic and enjoy live performances by highly esteemed and innovative family-friendly entertainers.
  • Montgomery County Agriculture Fair: The Fair will be August 9-17, 2019 and has animals, rides, entertainment, food, commercial, home arts, arts and crafts exhibits, and many others for the whole family to enjoy!
  • 11th Annual Ukulele Festival at Strathmore: It’s a celebration of the marvelous musicality of the ukulele on August 21, 2019. UkeFest features ukulele superstars Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer, Daniel Ho, and Peter Luongo along with a mass strum-along. This fantastically fun concert is the culmination of the 11th annual UkeFest intensive workshop and a highlight of summer at Strathmore!
  • Kayak, canoe and paddle boating: Ballpark Boathouse, Fletcher’s Boathouse, Mariner Sailing School, The Wharf

Mosquito Squad of Greater Washington DC is our communities’ leading choice for mosquito, tick, and flea control, as well as other forms of backyard pest control. Their work has made it possible for customers to enjoy their backyards for the first time without fear of bug bites or vector-borne diseases. Their work is backed by a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. If you don’t like the results, they promise to spray your yard again for free or refund your money. Schedule your mosquito control treatment by calling (571) 364-6956 and find a service that is right for your family here.

This post was written in partnership with D.C. Mosquito Squad who is providing standard barrier treatment for our yard this summer.

Ultimate Guide to Halloween in and around Washington, DC

Saturdays and Sundays only– 10:00am-6:00pm-: Eye Spy Train at Wheaton
All aboard the Wheaton Eye Spy Halloween Train! NO LONGER HAUNTED! This “not so scary” train ride is fun for the whole family – it’s all about fun, not fright! Each child will receive an Eye Spy card before boarding the train. As you ride through the woods of Wheaton Regional Park, look all around to find Halloween friends hiding, and mark them off the Eye Spy card. They’ll have fun Halloween activities in the Train Station Party Room, where snacks will also be available for purchase. Costumes are encouraged! Please bring a canned food donation for your neighbors in need – they’ll donate them to Mid-County United Ministries in Wheaton. [Read more…]

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