Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Washington, DC

Lyle the Crocodile at Imagination Stage

by Leticia

July 10, 2009

Looking for something to do this weekend?  Head to Bethesda for Imagination Stage’s production of Lyle the Crocodile.  Based on the classic tale of Lyle, Lyle Crocodile by Bernard Waber, Lyle is as lovable on stage as he is in the book. 

The production follows the story closely but includes wonderful musical numbers and dance routines that will thrill young readers who are familiar with the story.  Lyle’s house in the play looks exactly like the house on East 88^th Street in New York City that Primms inhabit in the book and even includes cranky neighbor, Mr. Grump and his cat, Loretta.

Lyle the Crocodile is a well done theater production by Imagination Stage and a fabulous way to introduce young children to the performing arts.  Every seat boasts a stellar view and children will feel grown up in their plush velvet seat even if they do have to sit on a provided booster.  A 15 minute intermission is just enough time to head to the bathroom and have time for a snacks brought from home or available for purchase at the theater’s café. 

Lyle the Crocodile at Imagination Stage

4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814

Shows are Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 and 3:30 pm, Saturday at 7 pm, and Tuesdays-Fridays at 10:30 am.  Final day of performances is on August 9, 2009.

Single tickets range in price from $10-21 and are available by clicking here or by calling the box office at 301-280-1660

A Family Happy Hour Featuring Rocknoceros and The Great Zucchini

by Leticia

June 26, 2009

In honor of planning ahead for the month of July, check your calendar and get your tickets for A Family Happy Hour at the 9:30 Club featuring Rocknoceros and The Great Zucchini.  The show will be on Sunday, July 19 with doors opening at 2:30 pm.  Advance tickets are available for $15 by clicking here. 

As you know, we are huge Rocknoceros fans and I’ve been wanting to catch The Great Zucchini ever since I read about him in The Washington Post Magazine last year.  Due to the popularity of both performers, I am sure that this show will sell out! 

Bugs Bunny and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

by Leticia

June 22, 2009

Yes, you read that correctly!  On Saturday, July 11 the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will perform Bugs Bunny on Broadway at Merriweather Post Pavillion.  The concert will feature Warner Brother’s Studio cartoons on big screens while their original film scores are performed live by the BSO.   “Bugs Bunny on Broadway” is the perfect way to introduce your child to classical music through classic Warner Brothers cartoons and favorite characters like Bugs Bunny, Elmer Fudd, Daffy Duck, Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote, and Porky Pig.

This unique concert will feature musical masterpieces of Wagner, Rossini, Strauss, Tchaikovsky, and others, as interpreted through the “hare-raising” cartoon scores of legendary Warner Bros. Studios composers Carl Stalling and Milt Franklyn, in such iconic Looney Tunes as “What's Opera, Doc?,” “The Rabbit of Seville,” “Corny Concerto,” “Baton Bunny,” “Long-Haired Hare,” “High Note,” and many more.

Bugs Bunny on Broadway made its debut at The Gershwin Theatre in New York City in 1990.  Now almost two million people worldwide have seen this concert in performances with the world’s greatest orchestras. It has been called “hilarious” by The New York Times and “spectacular" by The New York Post.

Click here to get your tickets to Bugs Bunny on Broadway through TicketMaster.  It isn’t too early to get your tickets.  The performances have often sold out in other venues around the country and world!

Details: Bugs Bunny on Broadway

Saturday, July 11 at 8:30 pm

Merriweather Post Pavillion

10475 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD 21044

Directions

Saturday Fun: PBS Super Why Play Day at Area Toys R Us Stores

by Leticia

June 12, 2009

Are you a fan of the PBS show SuperWhy like we are?  If so, Super Why is launching a great new line of educational toys and is hosting events at Toys R Us stores around the country tomorrow!  Tomorrow you can head to your local Toys“R”Us for an in-store super duper Super Why! play day that is sure to be tons of fun for your Super Reader!

Kids ages 3 and up are invited to play a Super Why Bingo Game, complete a Super Why coloring activity and listen to a Super Why story. You’ll also be treated to a hands-on Super Why toy demonstration and receive special Super Why premiums, coupons, a free mask, coloring fun sheet, and more (while supplies last)!

We usually shun character-based products in our home but have welcomed the Super Why products because of their educational value.  Our two Super Why fans received some of the new Super Why products a couple of weeks ago and they have been a huge hit ever since they arrived.  They love donning their special capes and transforming into Super Why and Princess Presto to act out scenes from their favorite episodes while holding the included Why Writer and Magic Spelling Wand.  They also like taking their Super Duper Computer into their play house and pretending they are going to the Book Club. I love watching what they have learned through the episodes through their imaginative play and like that their touch screen Super Duper Computer is filled with games that help them practice different literacy skills such as learning the alphabet, problem solving, spelling, word families, word comprehension, rhyming, and reading. 

For more details about the Super Why events in your area, click here for a listing of special events just for Super Readers in the DC Metro area and around the country.

Super Readers...to the rescue!

Super Why Play Date

• JUNE 13, 2009
• 12:00pm to 2:00pm
• Nationwide Toys"R"Us In-Store Event

Click here for more details!

The National Zoo's Guppy Gala!

by Leticia

June 08, 2009

Who doesn’t love the National Zoo?  With plenty of room to run, the excitement of visiting favorite animals, and free admission, this treasure is one of our go-to places any time of the year.  We also love their special events like Boo at the Zoo, the winter light display known as Zoo Lights, and look forward to the upcoming Guppy Gala. 

This year’s Guppy Gala is being held on Friday, June 12 from 6:00-8:30 pm and is going to be 2 ½ hours of pure fun.  This annual family event is a fundraiser that supports animal care, conservation science, education and sustainability at the National Zoo.  It features animal encounters, tasty food, and a variety of spectacular activities such as a mock construction site, rock climbing walls, obstacle courses, mazes, jugglers, gymnasts, musicians, and other live entertainment.

This year ticket prices have been discounted to make them more affordable for families to attend and since you are supporting the National Zoo, all but $5 for each ticket you buy is tax deductible!

I can’t think of a better way to support one of our favorite family places than to buy a ticket to the Guppy Gala!  The whole family will have a fabulous time and come next tax season, you will have a nice deduction thanks to your ticket purchase.

See you at the Guppy Gala!

Visit the Guppy Gala site for more information and to access the link to purchase tickets.

Guppy Gala event details:

• Friday, June 12, 6:00-8:30 pm
• Tickets: Tickets are needed for everyone over the age of 2.  Cost for FONZ members- $15, nonmembers- $25
• Parking: Passes can be requested with your ticket purchase.  1 pass can be requested if 1-5 tickets are purchased and 2 passes can be requested if 6+ tickets are purchased.

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

May 28, 2009

Ah, Spring has sprung and the mosquitoes have not.  I think that makes this the perfect weekend to get outside.  Check out the following local events:

Friday Night Live! Summer Concert Series - Every Friday until August 28th from 6:30 to 10:00 at the Herndon Town Green (777 Lynn Street).  This Friday features Black Sheep and next week is Burnt Sienna.  Food and drinks are for sale during the shows.

How Plants Work, A Guide to Being Green - This ongoing exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden.  It is hands-on and targeted for kids, but I think the moms and dads will enjoy it as well.

Walking Town DC - This Saturday and Sunday, Cultural Tourism DC is sponsoring 120 free walking tours around the city.  Check out their website for full details and the schedule.

Night at Mount Vernon - May 29-31 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.  Watch the sunset from the lantern lit grounds and interact with historical re-enactors.  Tickets are required, see the website for more information.

Artomatic 2009 - The 10th anniversary of this event opens May 29th and last until July 5 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) at 55 M St. SE.  This month-long art festival is free to the public.  Read more...

Herndon Festival 2009

by Beth Hoffman

May 21, 2009

The Herndon Festival is coming!  Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 28 - Sunday, May 31.  This year, the festival will feature:

• Live Entertainment on Three Stages
• Carnival Rides and Games
• Fireworks Displays on Thursday and Saturday
• Arts & Crafts Show including a Fine Arts Division
• Children's Entertainment
• Children's Hands-On Art Activities
• Business Exposition
• 10k & 5k Races (at the Herndon Community Center)
• K9 2-K & Doggie Expo (at the Herndon Community Center)
• Model Railway Exhibit
• International Foods

Thursday -The Legwarmers, Ruthie Foster, and Eric Scott

Friday - Lenka, Luke Brindley, and Leaving Texas

Saturday Night - Glen Burtnik and Gandalf Murphy & the Slambovian Circus of Dreams

Sunday - Fat Ammons Band and Still Surfin'

and on Saturday & Sunday family-friendly entertainers during the day.

Now, the first time I went to the Herndon Festival was many years ago by pure accident, when we ordered a pizza to pick up from the middle of Herndon and didn't realize the festival would make getting there and back almostimpossible.  In the hours it took us to retrieve dinner, I got a good look at all the goings-on.  Lots fun for the whole family , even the littlest ones.  Be sure to park and take advantage of the shuttles so you don't repeat my pizza debacle.  Shuttles stop at Worldgate Shopping Center and Herndon High School.

Free Saturday Activities at National Harbor's American Market

by Leticia

May 08, 2009

The National Children's Museum will once again present free outdoor family friendly programs at National Harbor’s American Market, a farmer’s market featuring regional vendors showcasing produce, pastries, crafts, artwork, fashion, and more.

Every Saturday, the Museum offers a variety of fun, hands-on activities for kids and families at American Market, hosted at the site of the Museum’s future location at National Harbor.  The activities correspond with programs taking place at the new National Children’s Museum Launch Zone at National Harbor, a space where kids can prototype exhibit components and programs and share their ideas about what should be included in the new Museum.

American Market activities will be held at 150 American Way, National Harbor, MD 20745 every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the last one being on September 5, 2009.

The upcoming event schedule is as follows:

May 9 – Join a journey into the future at the Launch Zone! Become a part of the story and help a slightly mad scientist travel in time to learn about the future of our planet. After the show, create your very own fashion masterpiece using recycled water bottles and funky vinyl stickers, then enjoy more fun recycling activities outdoors at American Market.

May 16 – Design your own personal seal at American Market to finalize your “scroll” created at the Launch Zone’s Let’s Make Rules and Kids’ Congress program.

May 23 – Do you know how to be sun-wise when going to the beach? Learn cool ways to enjoy the sun and protect yourself before experiencing the sun’s rays at the Launch Zone, then find some shade under the trees on American Way and continue to be sun-wise.

May 30 – Enjoy the original children’s theater performance “The Truth About Bunny and Puppet Studio” at the Launch Zone, then explore more puppets at American Market.

June 6 – Learn about making better food choices and increasing your physical activity with fun activities for the “Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition” program also known as We Can! ™ at American Market.

June 13 – Make your own easy birdfeeder so you can help feed birds and learn about what different birds eat during Feed the Birds at American Market.

June 20 – People in our community do many unique things. Recognize your special hero by designing and decorating a badge for him or her during Hero Badges.

June 27 – Make a firefly glow-in-the-dark night landscape to celebrate the launch of our website, “Ready, Set, Glow!” during Fireflies in the Night Sky.

To visit the NCM Launch Zone, head to 112 Waterfront St., National Harbor, MD 20745

Tuesday List: Ways to Celebrate Trains

by Leticia

May 05, 2009

Did you know that this Saturday, May 9 is National Train Day?  On Saturday, Amtrak will be celebrating America’s love for rail travel and 140 years of train travel throughout the country at the 2nd Annual National Train Day event at Union Station from 10 am to 3 pm.  All activities are free and include an appearance by American Idol Judge, Randy Jackson, who will be there to help celebrate.  Other festivities include Radio Disney, magicians, face painters, and train exhibits.  Trains, such as The Georgia 300, President Obama’s historic inaugural private train car, and The Dover Harbor will be on display for all to see. If you are train lovers like we are, this free event will make your day! 

If you aren’t able to make it but love all things trains, there are many other ways you can celebrate a love of trains throughout the year:

• Take a day trip to the B&O Railroad Museum and ride the first mile of track that was laid in the United States.
• Pick up a copy of Rocknoceros’ new CD, PINK! and rock out to The Train Song while pretending to be Diamond Stone.
• Visit the National Museum of American History to visit an electric streetcar, railroad track signal, and steam locomotives like the John Bull or Southern Railway 1401.  You can also hop aboard an El. 
• Learn about the trains online.  Get to know the lingo with this glossary of terms and view business cars, coaches, lounges, sleepers, and sleeper/lounge cars here.
• Why not ride the rails.  In honor of National Train Day, Amtrak riders will earn double Amtrak Guest Rewards® points on each of the first four Amtrak train trips and triple points for the fifth trip and beyond, from March 16 through May 8, 2009.  Plus, earn quadruple points for any trip taken on National Train Day, Saturday, May 9, 2009. 

For additional suggestions of things you can do with your children, please visit my Being Savvy post about Trains and Other Modes of Transportation on Rails for train-related activities in the immediate DC Metro Area and beyond, along with my reading list of books about trains.

Weekend Picks: Fun, Free Family Fun!

by Leticia

April 23, 2009

Nothing to do this weekend?  Other than getting outside and enjoying the beautiful spring weather we are supposed to have after the last few rainy days, here are my weekend picks for some great free family fun.

Maryland Day

Saturday 10-4 pm
University of Maryland, College Park

This popular free family friendly event is UMD’s open house that is filled with learning, exploration, and fun.  Choose activities among the various themes:  Science & Tech Way, Arts Alley, Sports & Rec Row, Biz & Society Hill, Terp Town Center, Ag Day Avenue, and Global Village.  UMD will have over 400 hands on activities, workshops, events, and performances so there will be something to please everyone in your family.  Click here for a list of events especially designed for kids. 

Celebrate Earth Day with the Montgomery County Division of Solid Waste Services

Saturday 11-3 pm
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD  20850

Catch a bus every 15 minutes to tour the county’s recycling center, get a free Leafgro and compost bin, make Earth Friendly crafts, bring your jeans and other denim clothing to repurpose into home insulation, bring your personal documents for on site shredding, and learn more about environmentall friendly homes, recycling and waste reduction, and purchasing recycled products.

Grand Opening of National Children’s Museum Launch Zone

Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, 2009, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m
NCM Launch Zone, 112 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745

Open to the public seven days a week, the Launch Zone is a place where children can prototype exhibit components and programs, share their ideas about what should be included in the new Museum, and participate in fun and educational programs related to the Museum’s core content areas.  On Saturday festivities will feature recycled art activities, face painting, chalk art, food, and an original, interactive performance by the Museum, The Adventures of Wally the Water Bottle. Performances will take place at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.  On Sunday, April 26, the celebration continues with recycled and chalk art activities, face painting, balloon creations, treats, and a special performance – Sea Revels – by cultural performance organization, the Washington Revels. Performances will take place at the Main Stage at National Harbor at 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Saturday- Rocknoceros' CD Release Party Celebrates New PINK! Album

by Leticia

April 17, 2009

We were introduced to Rocknoceros over three years during their performance at a local coffee house and became hooked.  Ever since then we’ve been checking their online calendar and following them around the DC Metro Area like groupies.  We own both their debut CD and Dark Side of the Moonbounce and are now proud owners of their third album, PINK!  (Click here for my review of PINK!)

Ever since our PINK! CD arrived in the mail, our entire family has been looking forward to joining the band at Jammin’ Java in Vienna tomorrow to celebrate the release of PINK!  We can’t wait to rock out with the band!  There will be three shows to celebrate the release of PINK and tickets for the 11 am, 2 pm, or 7 pm pajama show are available by clicking here.

 If you can’t make it to tomorrow’s CD release party, don’t worry!  Rocknoceros has a regular Wednesday morning gig at Jammin’ Java and a full schedule where you can catch them at any of the following venues:

• April 26 - Arlington Cinema Drafthouse, Arlington VA
• May 2  - Celebrate Mama!, Bethesda MD
• May 3 - B’nai Shalom Family Fun Day, Olney MD
• May 4 - Clifton Town Hall Meeting 
• May 5 -  Chesterfield Town Center “Club Mom”, Richmond VA
• May 9 – Avalon Theatre, Washington DC      
• May 17 - Party in the Park, Annandale VA
• May 18 - Austin Grill, Centreville VA (2 Shows)
• May 23 – Ram’s Head Tavern, Annapolis, MD - 11am
• May 23 - Hometown Holidays, Rockville MD
• May 30 -  Herndon Festival, Herndon VA

Seeing Rocknoceros perform is a total treat and we hope to see you at Jammin’ Java tomorrow!  I’ll be the mom rockin’ the purple Rocknoceros shirt with the two kids clutching their train whistles and shakers who know the words to all the songs! 

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

April 09, 2009

Here are a few kid-friendly events coming up this weekend.

Easter Egg-stravaganza at Woodrow Wilson House - Saturday, April 11 from 1-3 PM.  It seems President Wilson used to enjoy standing at the South Portico of the White House and watching the Easter egg-roll on the White House lawn.  To honor that tradition, the Wilson House is holding their first annual egg-roll in the garden.  Admission is pricey, $25 for adults and $10 for children over 2, but if you missed the ticket for the White House egg-roll (like most of us did), it might be a good substitute.  The Wilson House is located at 2340 S Street, NW.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show - Saturday, April 11 from 8:30-9:00 PM.  The last hurrah of this year's Cherry Blossom Festival starts with a three hour festival (stating at 5:00 PM), includes musical performances, kid craft activities, and food from local restaurants.  Rain or Shine at the Southwest Waterfront, 7th Street and Maine Ave, SW.

Washington Nationals Home Opener - Monday, April 13 at 3:05 PM, Tuesday, April 14 and Wednesday, April 15 at 7:05 PM.  Take them out to the ballpark before the heat and humidity of summer arrive.  The Nats are playing the Phillies in a three-game home stand to open the season.  For the little ones, check out the Kids Page of the Nationals website for kid-friendly information about the mascot, baseball, and chances for kids to get out and run the bases after select Sunday games.  Nationals Park is located at 1500 S. Capital Street, SE.  Green Line to Navy Yard or park at RFK and take the shuttle.  Read more...

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

April 02, 2009

Here are some of the kid-friendly goings-on about town this weekend.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade:  Saturday starting at 10 AM.  It happens every year, it is a madhouse every year, and you will spend the day begging your children not to touch the cherry trees (it is bad for them, remind the tourists, would you?), but it is also the most beautiful time of year to be downtown and a heck of a lot of fun for the kids.  Alex Trebek is the Grand Marshall this year, there are musical guests that I have never heard of but who will surely delight the tween set, the DC Roller Derby Skaters, performances from two Broadway shows, and, of course, Elmo.  Take Metro, pack snacks, the kids will love it.

Rainforest Alive! at Discovery Theater:  Special family performance at noon Saturday.  Got a critter lover?  This live animal show features a boa constrictor, caiman crocodile, iguana, and other rainforest animals.  The Saturday show is followed by a reception with "Earth-friendly treats."

Our Ocean Planet at National Aquarium in Baltimore:  Saturday and Sunday 11 AM to 3:30 PM.  The Baltimore Aquarium introduces a new dolphin show this weekend with special events including games, face painting, and a "build a dolphin" activity.

Polar Weekend at the Maryland Science Center:  Saturday and Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.  Tired of the warmer weather?  Missing the winter chill?  Check out the cold weather tents, displays of cold weather animals and a polar science fair at the Maryland Science Center.  Anyone else think they should have saved this for August?  Read more...

Free Family Activities at the Cherry Blossom Festival

by Leticia

March 27, 2009

It is that time of year when we become blossom watchers, anxiously awaiting the peak of the cherry blossoms.  The beautiful pink blossoms are always a sight to behold whether you are admiring the blooms in your neighborhood or around the Jefferson Memorial. 

As in past years, the National Children’s Museum (NCM) will be presenting free family activities at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Family Day with the National Building Museum on March 28. Families are invited to celebrate the fourth annual opening of Washington, DC’s cherry blossom season during this celebration that will feature hands-on activities, martial arts demonstrations, and captivating indoor and outdoor performances exploring Japanese art and design.  Activities will be from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

For additional information, visit the National Children's Museum or the National Cherry Blossom official website. 

2009 White House Easter Egg Roll

by Beth Hoffman

March 26, 2009

So, are you spending all day today refreshing the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll ticketing website, or is that just me?  No luck, so far for me.  They are releasing tickets in blocks throughout the day, but the times are not published so you just have to guess and get lucky.  I suppose this is more convenient for most of us than thronging the Ellipse for tickets, but at least then you can see how many people are ahead of you and what your chances aire.  Anyway, since I am dedicating so much time to running over to my laptop to hit F5, I thought I would share some fun facts about the White House Easter Egg Roll, for anyone else out there who is spending far too much time on this today.

From the White House's Easter Egg Roll website:

• The White House Easter Egg Roll will be held on Monday, April 13, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the South Lawn of the White House.
• The theme for this year's egg hunt is "Let's Go Play."  Do you think that means President Obama will be on hand to play "Wizard of Oz" with my three year old for nine straight hours?
• The first White House Easter Egg Roll was in 1878.
• This is the first time that tickets have been distributed online.

(Refresh.  Refresh.  Refresh.)

 Good luck if you are trying for tickets!

Elephants on Parade as the Circus Arrives in DC!

by Leticia

March 13, 2009

Every year when Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® heads into DC, everyone eagerly anticipates information about the Elephant Walk. The famed walk happens as the elephants exit the train at Union Station and walk around Capitol Hill, making for an outstanding parade as they meander over to the Verizon Center.

This year the pachyderm parade will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as the animals walk to the beat of a bagpiper.  The walk will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. but due to unpredictable train schedules, the starting time and route are subject to change.  The best way to get up to the latest information is to call the Animal Walk Hotline (866-683-3640 or 866-683-3650) for continuous updates.

The walk celebrates the arrival of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Over The Top show which is coming to DC for five weeks of wacky and whimsical circus spectaculars.  Over the Top’s biggest stars will also march on Capitol Hill in their St. Patty’s Day best.  Showing their true green spirit, the Pachyderms will parade behind the Capitol to the sound of bagpipes.

Want to watch the pachyderm parade?  The route for the animal walk is as follows:

• East on Virginia Ave SE (By Garfield Park)
• North on 4th Street, SE to East Capitol Street
• Continue north on 4th Street, NE to Stanton Park
• Continue west on Massachusetts Ave, NE to Columbus Circle, NW in front
• of Union Station. 
• Columbus Circle, NW to E Street, NW. 
• 3rd Street, NW to G Street, NW to the Verizon Center

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® OVER THE TOP show will be at these DC area venues on the following dates:

• March 19 – 22, Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.
• March 25 – April 5, 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore, Md.
• April 8 – 19, Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA

If you are excited about going to the circus and haven't gotten your tickets yet, I'll hook you up with 4 tickets for $44! Click here to read my previous post about the circus that contains information about how the discount and treat your family to a special circus outing without breaking the bank.

Coming Attractions

by Beth Hoffman

March 12, 2009

Here are a few options if you are looking for things to do with the kids this weekend.

NSO Community Music & Arts Festival at THEARC.  This event takes place from 10AM to 2 PM and all ages are welcome.  There's a concert at 10AM targeted to 3-6 years olds, who are invited to bring their teddy bears.  At 11, there's a musical instrument "petting zoo," an appearance by Maestro Mouse, face painting, balloon artists, and more, and finally a full orchestra family concert at 1 PM.  Admission is free, but you do need tickets, so hit the website for more info.

Pi Day at the Maryland Science Center.  Planning to be near the Inner Harbor?  Check out Pi Day at the Maryland Science Center from noon to four.  Entrance is free with paid admission and they are offering pie, a Pi memorization contest and a hula hoop contest.  (Let's see.... 3.14159.... I'm out.  Who can beat me?)  It's Einstein's birthday too, so you can take a shot at explaining relativity to your preschooler.  I wish you luck on that one.

Elephant Walk through D.C.  The circus is coming!  The circus is coming!  And at 10AM Tuesday (weather permitting), the elephants are coming to take a stroll through the streets of D.C. from Garfield Place to the Verizon Center.  They're even bringing a bagpiper in honor of St. Patrick's Day.  I'm definitely heading downtown for this one, I think the sight of elephants walking down city streets will blow my three-year-old's mind.  Read more...

Coming Attractions

by Beth Hoffman

March 05, 2009

Looking for things to do with the kids this weekend?  Here are a few of the events and activities happening around town.\

Smuckers Stars on Ice at the Verizon Center (District)
Ok, so I'm cutting this one a bit close since the show is Friday night (3/6 at 6:30 PM), but I mention it for two reasons.  First, it features Michael Weiss, who I went to high school with.  Well, who attended my high school at the same time I did, not that I ever clapped eyes on him.  Second, when I first read the press release I thought it said the show featured Michael Phelps, and I had such fun trying to envision how that would work that I just had to share.  Also, ice skating is strangely captivating for many of the preschoolers I know, maybe yours feels the same way.

Majestic Eagles at Mason Neck State Park (Lorton, VA)
If you want to head to the park this weekend (the weather is supposed to be fabulous), they are running an educational program about bald eagles and will loan you binoculars and a spotting scope so you can try to sneak a peak of one in the wild.  Good excuse to get outside and enjoy our early Spring.

Shushan Street Festival, a Purim Party (District)
The District of Columbia Jewish Community Center is holding a Purim Party this Sunday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Wear costumes, catch a puppet parade and puppet show, and join the dance party.  $15 per family, tickets available at the door.

Zomo at the Zoo (district)
Have you heard about "Zomo the Rabbit: A Hip-Hop Creation Myth" at Imagination Stage?  Well the zoo is hosting a bunch of activities based on the show at the Kid's Farm this weekend.  Admission is free, and be sure to take advantage of a less-crowded winter time trip to visit the animals while you are there.

99 Things To Do in DC

by Leticia

February 24, 2009

In no particular order, here’s a list of 99 things to do in the DC Metro Area with a child before they grow up:

1. Head out the night before and brave the elements to obtain coveted tickets to the White House Easter Egg Roll
2. Witness the beauty of the cherry blossoms at the Jefferson Memorial at their peak 
3. Go kayaking at Mason Neck State Park in Virginia since it is a great place to spot a bald eagle 
4. Step back in time and go on a canal boat ride in Great Falls or Georgetown 
5. After dinner and a bath, take your PJ-clad child on a tour of the Monuments at night
6. Appreciate the grandeur of the interior space of the National Building Museum then head to the Building Zone to satisfy your child’s inner Bob the Builder 
7. Play at Turtle Park and don’t miss Turtle Park Day  
8. Attend a performance at Glen Echo Puppet Theater 
9. Catch a show at Glen Echo Adventure Theater, DC’s longest running children’s theater 
10. Take a spin on the Glen Echo Carousel and witness the amazing Wurlitzer band organ 
11. Witness air acrobatics at Bealeton Airport Flying Circus 
12. Choose a local farm, bring your own containers, and an appetite to spend a couple hours berry picking
13. Introduce your child to the wonders of live performances at Wolf Trap Theater in the Woods 
14. Attend afternoon high tea at Strathmore Mansion 
15. Witness the power of water at Great Falls
16. Take a seat at the end of the runway at National Airport’s Gravelly Point and watch airplanes zoom overhead 
17. Explore all areas of the National Zoo, including the naked mole rats
18. Feed the koi at the National Arboretum
19. Ponder what George Washington used to think about while sitting on his back porch on Mount Vernon high above the Potomac River 
20. Ride the train and feed the trash pig (a trash can that talks when you throw garbage in it) at Cabin John Park 
21. Throw rocks in Rock Creek
22. Hike part of the Billy Goat Trail 
23. Spend time in the woods just exploring
24. Go camping at a local campground for the weekend
25. Bike the Monuments and the sights of The Mall
26. Go to Sky Meadows State Park for Astronomy Day or a Saturday Star Party
27. Let a butterfly land on you at the Wings of Fancy exhibit at Brookside Gardens 
28. Attend the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival to witness sheep shearing, partake in the fabulous lamb sold at the concession stands, and be dazzled by all the beautiful hand knit items for sale by vendors 
29. Experience the plethora of fried goods, carnival rides, and animals at a County fair
30. Have a hands on learning day at Port Discovery 
31. Go train crazy at the B&O Railroad Museum 
32. Go plane crazy at the College Park Aviation Museum 
33. Have a cultural experience at an Embassy
34. Ride a restored DC trolley car at the National Capital Trolley Museum 
35. Hunt for shark teeth at Calvert Cliffs State Park 
36. Hum The Star Spangled Banner while paying tribute to the inspiration for our National Anthem during a visit to Fort McHenry 
37. Step back in time to 1771 at Claude Moore Historical Farm 
38. Attend Claude Moore Historical Farm’s Market Fair offered three weekends a year 
39. Engage in hands on science at Discovery Creek Children’s Museum 
40. Enjoy more hands on science fun at the Maryland Science Center 
41. Stare in awe at the most amazing stained glass rosettes at the National Cathedral 
42. Stare in awe at sheets of uncut money at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing 
43. Stare in awe as you take in the scenery from the top of the Washington Monument 
44. Explore every corner of the 2 acre Clemyjontri Park 
45. Procure tickets to an afternoon performance of Cirque du Soleil and witness acrobatics like you’ve never seen before 
46. Cruise the Potomac
47. Attend Art-o-Matic, the free art festival featuring paintings, sculpture, photography, music, theater, poetry, dance and workshops 
48. Visit Cunningham Falls
49. Attend the lighting of the National Christmas Tree
50. Visit the bonfire on the Ellipse during the holidays
51. Catch Vienna based kid rock band, Rocknoceros, in concert for music the whole family will enjoy
52. Join up with Stroller Strides for a great workout and fun scenery and songs for your kiddo
53. Attend the Smithsonian Folklife Festival
54. Marvel at Jim Henson’s creations, First Ladies gowns, and the ruby slippers at the Museum of American History
55. Give your child unrestricted access to the hose one hot humid summer afternoon
56. Go swimming at an indoor pool in the middle of winter
57. Cool off at an ice skating rink during the summer
58. Be a pirate for a day 
59. Visit Meadowlark Gardens 
60. Begin to culture a love of art with a visit to the National Portrait Gallery or National Gallery 
61. Catch a summer movie outside under the stars at the Strathmore Film Fest or Screen on the Green
62. Practice using chop sticks at dim sum 
63. Go fishing 
64. Root for the home team at an O’s or Nat’s game
65. Pretend to be a rocket scientist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center 
66. Go apple picking
67. Take advantage of Free for All Fridays classes at the Roundhouse Theater 
68. See the sights in the snow
69. Visit rescued owls and experience the cave slide at Meadowside Nature Center
70. Enjoy the spectacle of a Chinese New Year’s parade
71. Root for the Ravens or the Redskins either live or on TV
72. Have a SmartTrip card and know how to swipe it to ride the Metro
73. Know which Metro station is closest to home
74. Marvel at the sculptures in the National Gallery Sculpture Garden
75. Seen the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner at the Museum of American History
76. Witnessed the grandeur of the space shuttle at Udvar Hazy
77. Indulge in a hot dog at Ben’s Chili Bowl
78. Visit all the monuments on the National Mall
79. Write a letter and mail it from the National Postal Museum
80. Visit Roosevelt Island 
81. Walk among the dinosaurs or visit the butterflies at the National Museum of Natural History
82. Visit the butterflies at the National Museum of Natural History
83. Have an ice cream themed birthday party and create your own flavor of ice cream at Moorenko’s
84. Go spelunking at Luray Caverns 
85. Rock out with your kids while sipping coffee at Jammin’ Java 
86. Go on a tour of the White House with tickets from your local Member of Congress
87. Visit an aquarium- either in Baltimore or the one right here in DC!
88. Cool off at Deep Creek Lake
89. Test furniture at IKEA until you get a craving for meatballs and lingonberry sauce
90. Visit a lighthouse
91. Practice espionage at the International Spy Museum
92. Go fly a kite at the Smithsonian Kite Festival on the Washington Monument grounds 
93. Gaze at the stars at the Rock Creek Planetarium 
94. Enjoy a free summer concert at Carter Barron Amphitheater 
95. Watch the tennis pros practice for free before competing in the Legg Mason Tennis Classic
96. Become one with nature at the Audobon Nature Fair 
97. Ogle at sailboats at the United States Sailboat and Powerboat Shows in Annapolis
98. Walk in the Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure 
99. Watch 4th of July fireworks on the National Mall
100. Spend a whole day doing what your child wants to do!

Five for Tuesday - Local Holiday Traditions

by Leticia

December 02, 2008

One of the fun things about having kids is the chance to start new traditions for your family. So far, most of our have been home-based because the kids are little and it is just easier, so we make gingerbread men on Thanksgiving morning and Christmas-themed sugar cookies on Christmas Eve. But I expect to be hauling the kids all over town before much longer, the same way my parents hauled  Read more...

Tuesday List: Local Light Up Traditions

by Leticia

December 02, 2008

December has arrived and nothing says holidays like lights. Lots and lots of lights. If your neighbors are just starting to deck their halls, roofs, and yards with decorations and your family is in need of a light fix, here are some great places where you can go to see beautiful light displays beginning now. Festival of Lights at the Washington Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter  Read more...

Kids Hate Shopping - Better Ideas for Black Friday

by Beth Hoffman

November 27, 2008

Still in town? Need to get out of the house or burn off that dinner? Check out some local events (that don't involve hitting the malls with the rest of your neighbors) for the long weekend. Reston Town Center - Get started early tomorrow with a 8:30 AM race for kids. Registration starts at 7:30 and kids race free. The parade starts at 11:00 and Santa arrives at 12:30. If you really  Read more...

Five for Tuesday - Election Resources for Kids

by Beth Hoffman

November 04, 2008

Did you vote yet? Did you take the kids? Mine were unimpressed. Well, the baby enjoyed watching the people, but the three-year-old found the process much less exciting than the last event she saw at the high school, a football game. Maybe they should have gotten the marching band going out front to help pass the time? Anyway, we'll be spending tonight glued to the returns, and in looking  Read more...

Kennedy Center's Multicultural Children's Book Festival

by Leticia

November 01, 2008

Since our November Being Savvy theme is all about books so it is fitting that the Kennedy Center's Thirteenth Annual Multicultural Children's Book Festival kicks off our month of literacy related posts. Children, parents, and educators are invited to the Kennedy Center today from Noon-6 pm to celebrate Family Literacy Day at the Multicultural Children's Book Festival. Books come to life in this  Read more...

Save the Date: January 20, 2009

by Leticia

October 30, 2008

I am supposed to be talking about Halloween now, right? But instead, I want to talk politics. No! Don't leave! I know we are all drowning in politics right now, but I need to talk to you about it anyway. Because I think that right now, the day before Halloween, before we vote, before we know who wins, before we find out how divided or unified we are as a country or a region or a state,  Read more...

Adventure Theatre's Harold and the Purple Crayon will tickle you purple

by Leticia

October 23, 2008

Today's Being Savvy Washington DC post is by guest contributor Linda Kerr. Linda lives in Fairfax County with her two children and together they venture out to find cheap fun and excitement close to home. Linda is currently writing a book on having kids less than two years apart (aka Baby Bunching). Where can you find a singing crayon, a friendly dragon, a few dancing lost pirates, a  Read more...

Fire Prevention Week

by Beth Hoffman

September 30, 2008

When I hear Fire Prevention Week , I don't immediately start packing up the kids to join in the fun, but it seems that I should. To commemorate Fire Prevention Week (October 5 - October 11), all Fairfax County fire and rescue stations are holding open houses on Saturday, October 11 from 10-4. The press release promises displays and activities on fire safety, including preventing fires and fire  Read more...

Its County Fair Time!

by Leticia

August 13, 2008

Where can you find live animals, all kinds of fried food, demolition derbies, carnival rides, live entertainment, arts and crafts exhibits, more food, and fun for all ages? The county fair! It is fair season and for your fair-going pleasure, here's a roundup of this year's Maryland and Virginia county fairs: Virginia Fairs Arlington County Fair Dates: August 6 - 10, 2008 Location: Thomas  Read more...

Jim Henson's Muppets on the Silver Screen & Smithsonian International Gallery

by Leticia

July 13, 2008

The very first movie Little Miss Techie ever saw in a theater wasn't a big name animated DreamWorks or Pixar blockbuster in a theater with digital surround sound and stadium seating. It was The Muppet Movie. Seeing such American cultural icons on the silver screen at the AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center in Silver Spring two years ago was as much as a treat for her as it was for me and my  Read more...

Being Savvy DC's Weekend Picks

by Leticia

June 27, 2008

Lacking plans for the beautiful weekend that is ahead of us? Well look no further! Here are my Being Savvy Washington DC picks for this weekend: Saturday- Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair On Saturday, the Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair will be held in Silver Spring, Maryland (just north of the DC line) for the very first time! Hosted by Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center, Crafty  Read more...

Smithsonian Folklife Festival Children's Activities- NASA

by Leticia

June 20, 2008

Today is the second of three days that I'm devoting Being Savvy DC to the ways the Smithsonian Folklife Festival can be enjoyed by the whole family. I covered Bhutan yesterday , am writing about NASA today, and will be highlighting Texas on Monday. My goal is to provide you with a kid-friendly guide to enjoying each part of the Folklife Festival when it opens this Wednesday. Little Miss  Read more...

Downtown Silver Spring's Little Tots Summer Fun Series

by Leticia

June 11, 2008

Happy Wednesday! If you are reading this with nothing on the agenda this morning and happen to be close to Downtown Silver Spring , today is the start of Little Tots Summer Fun Series . Beginning at 10:30 am every other Wednesday there will be children's performances, in-store activities, specials at the stores, arts and crafts, and more! Here's the summer lineup: June 11- Flumpa and Friends  Read more...