Fun Things To Do With Kids: Washington, DC

Top 5 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Weekend: July 17 - 18, 2010

Get ready for another hot summer weekend! Check out top 5 things to do with kids this weekend in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and Baltimore, Maryland.

FREE: Rocknoceros Concert - Reston, VA
Saturday, July 17: 11 am - 11:45 am

Washington, DC area's award-winning kid band will be performing for free at Reston Town Center. Listen to fun songs that teach even the youngest music fans! The band won the 2009 Washington Area Music Association's "Children's Music Artist of the Year" award. Free admissions.

Reston Town Center is located at 11900 Market St, Reston, Virginia (map it).

The Grandsons, Jr. Concert - Vienna, VA
Saturday, July 17: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

The Grandsons, Jr. is the kids band version of DC-area roots rock superstars The Grandsons. Dance to the upbeat mix of rock, swing, New Orleans R&B, country and latin music. Tickets are $8 per person (12 months and older). Get your tickets online.

The Grandsons, Jr. will be performing at Jammin' Java, located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Bob the Builder at Port Discovery - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, July 17: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, July 18: 12 pm - 5 pm

Check out Bob the Builder exhibit at Port Discovery in Baltimore this weekend. Your kids can participate in kid-smart activities to build up their Can-Do attitudes and encourage them to be active.. Install new parts to sinks in Bob the Builder's mobile home, learn about water conservation, build the vehicle shelter and much more. Admissions are $12.95 for anyone 2 and up. Get your tickets online.

Port Discover Children's Museum is located at 35 Market Place, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Artscape - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, July 17: 12 pm - 10 pm
Sunday, July 18: 12 pm - 8 pm

This art festival in Baltimore has events just for families! At the Target Family Art Park, kids can paint, make crafts, play with instruments, learn to dance and more. Pre-registration to participate in this family event is required since space is limited. You can pre-register your kids at the Kids Art Workshop Tent beginning at 11 am each day of the festival. See map of the festival. Free admissions.

Artscape is held at Mount Royal Avenue and Cathedral Street/Charles Street. Use directions to the Lyric Opera House to get there, located at 140 West Mt. Royal Ave, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

Blackberry Picking at Homestead Farm - Poolesville, MD
Saturday, July 17 - Sunday, July 18: 9 am - 6 pm

Pick your own blackberries at Homestead Farm in Maryland! Call them first before you leave to check on their availabilities (301-977-3761). Say hello to farm animals while you're there and check out their produce market.

Homestead Farm is located at 15604 Sugarland Road  Poolesville, Maryland (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids This Weekend: June 25 - 27, 2010

It doesn't look like we'll be getting a break from the heat in the next few days. So for this weekend's top 10 fun things to do with kids, I've included a few indoor activities so you and your family can stay cool. If you go to some of the street festivals that are going on this weekend, remember to pack your hat and sunblock!

FREE: Friday Night Live! Herndon Rocks - Herndon, VA
Friday, June 24: 6:30 pm

Enjoy live performance by Kristen and The Noise this Friday night in Historic Downtown Herndon, Virginia. Don't forget your blanket or lawn chairs, but leave your pet at home. Get there early since seating is first-come, first-served. Food and beverage vendors are available on site. Free admissions.

Friday Night Live! concert is held at the Town Green, located behind the new Municipal Building at 777 Lynn St, Herndon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Sounds of Summer - Lansdowne, VA
Friday, June 24: 7 pm - 10 pm

Go see rock band JunkFood at Lansdowne Resort in Virginia this Friday night. Bring a blanket for lawn seating (first-come, first-served). You can also purchase picnic basket snacks, special drinks, grilled foods, fresh salads and Loudoun County wines at the concert. Free admissions.

Sounds of Summer concert is held at Lansdowne Resort, located at 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Smithsonian Folklife Festival - Washington, DC
Festival is held daily from Thursday, June 24, to Monday, July 5. Hours this weekend:
Friday, June 25 - Sunday, June 27: 11 am - 5:30 pm with evening concerts from 5:30 pm to 8 pm.

Learn about cultural traditions from around the world at Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, DC. Enjoy live entertainment, check out arts, view cooking demonstrations and try traditional food from around the world. This weekend's special activities for kids include pinball painting, Japanese doll-making, kids' games from Mexico, Burmese ball sport of Chinlone, Thai calligraphy and tortilla making. See the complete schedule of events. Free admissions.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held at the National Mall in Washington, DC. Parking is limited, so it is best to take the Metro to Smithsonian station (Mall exit). Download festival map.

How I Became a Pirate at Imagination Stage - Bethesda, MD
Friday, June 24: 10:30 am
Saturday, June 25: 1:30 pm, 4 pm and 7 pm
Sunday, June 26: 1:30 pm and 4 pm 

Arr! Join the journey of Jeremy Jacob as he becomes a pirate in this spirited musical adventure. Recommended for kids ages 3 and up. Tickets range from $9.25 to $27, depending on seating area. Get your tickets online.

Imagination Stage is located at 4908 Auburn Ave, Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Occoquan River Festival - Occoquan, VA
Saturday, June 26: 12 pm - 7 pm

View craft demonstrations, check out sidewalk sales, enjoy live music and say hello to costumed historical reenactors at Occoquan River Festival. There is also a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids. The festival also includes Taste of Occoquan with nine participating local restaurants.

Occoquan River Festival is held at the historic Town of Occoquan in Virginia (map it).

FREE: Grand Re-Opening Open House of the Story Tellers - Occoquan, VA
Saturday, June 26: 11 am - 5 pm

Join the Story Tellers for the grand re-opening open house of their boutique bokstore before you check out the Occoquan River Festival. Open house starts at 11 am and activities include a scavenger hunt, hourly prize giveaways and face painting. Refreshments are also available. Call 703-494-1994 for more information.

The Story Tellers is located at 304 Mill St, Occoquan, Virginia (map it).

Farmer Jason at Jammin' Java - Vienna, VA
Saturday, June 26: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Dance and sing along to country rock music by Farmer Jason at Jammin' Java in Vienna. Farmer Jason won Parents Choice Gold Award for Rockin' in the Forest with Farmer Jason and an Emmy for It's a Farmer Jason PBS video interstitial program. Tickets are $8 for those who are 12 months and older. Get your tickets online.

Jammin' Java is located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Bob the Builder at Port Discovery Children's Museum - Baltimore, MD
Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, June 27: 12 pm - 5 pm

Join the Bob the Builder and the rest of the Can-Do Crew at Port Discovery Children's Museum. Your kids can experiment with tools in Bob's building workshop, install new parts in Bob the Builder's mobile home, learn about water conservation and participate in other fun activities. Tickets are $12.95 for those 2 years and older, and free for kids under 2. Get your tickets online.

Port Discovery Children's Museum is located at 35 Market Place, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

Glow-in-the-Dark Bowling at Strike Bethesda - Bethesda, MD
Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26: 11 am - 2 am
Sunday, June 27: 11 am - 11 pm
(No admittance for anyone under 21 years old after 9 pm)

Hit the lanes with your kids this weekend at Strike Bethesda. It's not just any bowling alley; your kids will have fun with the bright color bowling balls, glow-in-the-dark lanes, fun music, big screen video walls and yummy food. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up.

Strike Bethesda is located at 5353 Westbard Ave, Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Sunday Fun Skate at Skate-N-Fun Zone - Manassas, VA
Sunday, June 27: 12 pm - 4 pm

Stay active and have fun with your kids at Skate-N-Fun Zone. From 12 to pm on Sunday, they have Sunday Fun Skate for families. Admissions are $6.50 per person and skate rentals are $4.25. You can also get the Fun Pak, which includes 4 admissions, 4 skate rentals and 20 game tokens for $37.99. 

Skate-N-Fun Zone is located at 7878 Sudley Rd, Manassas, Virginia (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Weekend: June 12 - 13, 2010

I hope you and your family are enjoying this summer! I myself can't believe that it's June already - did we skip May? Well, we still have 12 weekends before Labor Day, so let's enjoy this summer. 

Check out top 10 fun things to do with kids in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia this weekend: June 12 - 13, 2010.

Celebrate Fairfax! - Fairfax, VA
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - midnight
Sunday, June 13: 11 am - 7 pm

Carnival rides, vendor exhibits, festival food, family-friendly live entertainment and petting zoo. Admission fees per day are $12 for adults, $5 for kids 3 to 12 and free for kids under 3. Admission fees include free access to concerts, entertainment and exhibits. Tickets for carnival rides are sold separately for $25 per day.

Celebrate Fairfax! Festival is held at the Government Center, located at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, Virginia (map it). Park at one of the designated parking lots for the festival and take a free shuttle bus from the parking lot. More on parking and directions to the festival.

FREE: Celebrate Mama - Washington, DC
Sunday, June 13: 10 am - 4 pm

Check out over 30 vendors that feature products and services for kids and families as well as family-friendly entertainment at Celebrate Mama. Free admissions and the first 300 guests get to be bring home a fun goody bag, also for free. They also have a charity raffle that benefits the March of Dimes. Performers include Little Maestro's at 11:30 am, the Singing Lizard at 12:30 pm and Barely Five Feet at 2 pm.

Celebrate Mama is held at University Yard on the George Washington University campus, located on 20th Street between G and H Streets, NW, Washington, DC (map it). Park on the street or take the Metro to Foggy Bottom Metro station.

FREE: Bethesda Artist Market - Bethesda, MD
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - 5 pm

Enjoy live entertainment and check out 25 local and regional artists showcase their fine arts and crafts and the Bethesda Artist Market. Free admissions. 

Bethesda Artist Market is held at Veterans Park, on Norfolk Avenue between Fairmont and St. Elmo Avenues in Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Cherry Picking at Homestead Farm - Poolesville, MD
Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13: 9 am - 6 pm

Grab a bag and pick tart cherries at Homestead Farm. You can also check out their market, where they have picked produce, various preserves and their own honey. Your kids can also say hello to farm animals at the farm. On the weekends, they have a country kitchen that serves hot dogs and refreshments. Call 301-977-3761 to confirm availability before you go.

Homestead Farm is located at 15604 Sugarland Rd, Poolesville, Maryland (map it).

Giggles: "The girl who made the whole world laugh" - Washington, DC
Saturday, June 12: 10:30 am and 12:30 pm

Enjoy this live performance where you can follow Giggles, a little girl who was born without a voice, but with the ability to giggle. The story will teach your kids that being different is okay and family is what you make it. Call 202-633-3030 for tickets availability.

Giggles is playing at S. Dillon Ripley Center, Discovery Theater, 3rd Sublevel, 1100 Jefferson Drive, SW, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE: Good Vibes Peace Festival - Silver Spring, MD
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - 3 pm

Good Vibes Peace Festival is presented by Meditation Museum in Silver Spring, Maryland. Live music, henna and face painting, cooking for peace and dancing for peace are among the many activities at Good Vibes Peace Festival. Design kites to be sent to Haiti as tokens of remembrance. Free admissions.

The festival is held in the Pyramid Atlantic parking lot, next to Meditation Museum, located at 8236 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland (map it).

Leesburg Animal Park - Leesburg, VA
Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13: 10 am - 5 pm with craft show from 12 pm to 3 pm

Feed camels, nilgai antelopes, llamas, sheep, goat and other animals at Leesburg Animal Park. Say hello to gibbons, zebras, an African serval cat, peacocks and more animals. Your kid can also ride a pony and go on a wagon ride. This weekend, there is a special craft show at the animal park from 12 to 3 pm.

Admission fees are $9.95 for adults, $7.95 for kids ages 2 and older and free for kids under 2. See my review of Leesburg Animal Park.

Leesburg Animal Park is located at 19270 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg, Virginia (map it).

FREE: On Stage Concert Series - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, June 12, 2010: 7 pm

Enjoy a free performance by a local rock band, Big Sur, this Saturday as a part of On Stage Concert Series in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and food for a fun picnic with your family.

Gaithersburg City Hall Concert Pavilion is located at 31 South Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it). 

The Shushybyes - Vienna, VA
Saturday, June 12: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Your preschooler will love dancing to music that combines catchy rock, swing jazz, Latin, R&B and more. Admissions are $8 per person (12 months and older). Get your tickets online.

The Shushybyes' peformance is held at at Jammin' Java, located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Washingtonian Center Summer Concert - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, June 12: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Ride a pedal boat on Washingtonian Lake, grab an early dinner with your family at Washingtonian Center, then head to Lakefront Plaza, between Uncle Julio's and Joe's Crab Shack, to enjoy a free summer concert. This Saturday, DC Motors perform classic rock and oldies at the plaza.

Washingtonian Center is located at 9811 Washingtonian Blvd, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

Fun Family Festival in Northern Virginia: Celebrate Fairfax! on June 11 - 13, 2010

Come join the fun at Celebrate Fairfax! Festival from Friday, June 11th to Sunday, June 13th. There are so many fun activities to keep you and your kids entertained at the festival, from carnival rides to live entertainment.

What?
Celebrate Fairfax! Festival is a large annual festival in a 25-acre site in Fairfax, Virginia. Check out more than 400 exhibitors, food vendors and crafters. Stay late and enjoy fireworks on Friday and Saturday night at 9:15 pm.

They also have five stages for live concerts where more than 60 performances are held during this 3-day festival. Entertainers include Rusted Root, Carolina Liar, Josh Thompson, Jimmy Wayne and KC & the Sunshine Band.

At the children's stage, your kids can enjoy performances by Rocknoceros, Reptiles Alive!, Magic 4 U and other kids entertainers. See a full schedule of performers on the children's stage.

Other activities for your kids include carnival rides, provided by Amusements of America. Ride along on a merry go round, take a ride on a ferris wheel, go on a roller coaster ride and so many more rides.  

 Stop by the petting zoo to say hello to baby farm animals, such as lambs and baby chicks.

Of course, don't forget to grab a bite to eat while you're there! What's a festival without funnel cakes, kettle corn and ice cream? Over 30 vendors are at the festival, so take your pick. You'll find the typical festival food vendors where you can get burgers, fries and pizza, as well as some surprising vendors such as Bonefish Grill and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

When?
Friday, June 11: 6 pm - 12 am
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - 12 am
Sunday, June 13: 11 am - 7 pm

Where?
Celebrate Fairfax! Festival is held at the Government Center, located at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, Virginia (map it).  You can bike, drive or take public transportation there. Free bike valet parking is available.

If you plan to drive, park at one of the designated parking lots for the festival and take a free shuttle bus from the parking lot. More on parking and directions to the festival.

How much?
Admission fees per day are $12 for adults, $5 for kids 3 to 12 and free for kids under 3. Admission fees include free access to concerts, entertainment and exhibits. Tickets for carnival rides are sold separately for $25 per day. You can get combo tickets which include admissions, concerts, entertainment, exhibits and all day carnival rides. Combo tickets per day are $35 for adults and $28 for kids 3 to 12. 

Save time and a few bucks by getting your tickets online instead of at the gate. Admission fees if you purchase online are $9 for adults and $4 for kids 3 to 12, plus $2 service charge per order. Get your tickets online. 

More information
More information about Celebrate Fairfax! Festival can be found on their website or by calling 703-324-3247. Download the Festival Map below.

 

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Memorial Day Weekend: May 29 - 31, 2010

This weekend marks the start of summer for many families as well as a very important reminder to honor the men and women who have served our country. Here are fun activities that you can do with your kids this Memorial Day Weekend.

FREE: Monuments and Memorials - Washington, DC

Take the time to pay tribute to those who have served our country by visiting the various monuments and memorials in Washington, DC. Go early before it gets too hot and so you can find good parking spots if you prefer to drive. Start with Washington Monument, walk to National WWII Memorial, then pass the reflecting pool and keep going to Lincoln Memorial. On your walk back to Washington Monument, stop by Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Washington Monument is located at 2 15st NW, Washington, DC‎ (map it).

FREE: Viva Vienna - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, May 30: 10 am - 10 pm
Monday, May 31: 10 am - 6 pm

Go on fun amusement rides, check out retail vendors and grab a bite to eat from various food vendors at Viva Vienna. They also have a children's stage on Sunday and Monday from 1 pm to 4:45 pm. Admissions are free. See festival schedule.

Viva Vienna is held at 245 Maple Ave W, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Hometown Holidays - Rockville, MD
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, May 30: 1 pm - 10 pm
Monday, May 31: 9 am - 1 pm

Enjoy free live entertainment, arts, crafts and kids activities at Hometown Holidays in Rockville, Maryland. Fun activities for kids include moonbounces, a rock climbing wall, a swing ride, a spin ride and more. Kids activities are available on Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 10 pm.

Also check out kids' stage on Saturday at 2, 4 and 5:30 pm and on Sunday at 2, 4 and 6 pm. Monday's events include a band performance, a ceremony and a parade. Admissions to the event and live entertainment are free, but not all of the kids activities are free.

Hometown Holidays are held at Rockville Town Square in Rockville, Maryland (map it). See map of event.

Newseum - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 28 - Monday, May 31: 9 am - 5 pm

Visit this interactive museum in Washington, DC, where you can see the Berlin Wall Gallery, 9/11 Gallery, an Elvis exhibit, Presidential Pets exhibit and more. Your kids will have fun pretending to be a TV reporter, too.

Admission fees are $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors (65+), $17.95 for military with a valid military ID, $17.95 for students with a valid student ID, $12.95 for kids 7 to 18 and free for kids 6 and younger. Get your tickets online to save 10% or download a coupon to save 25%. The 25% off offer is valid during Memorial Day weekend only.

Newseum is located at 555 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE for Military Personnel: WaterWorks at Kings Dominion - Doswell, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 12 pm

WaterWorks is a 20-acre waterpark at Kings Dominion. Check out tidal waves, rafting, giant waves, tubing, water slides and more. Private cabanas are also available for rent. Admissions are free with Kings Dominion park admission. Stay late and enjoy firework displays at 10 pm at the park.

Admission fees are $33.99 per person if you buy your tickets online. Kids 2 and under are free. Active duty and retired military personnel can get free admissions on Sunday, May 30th and Monday, May 31st. Just show a valid military ID or discharge papers.

Kings Dominion is located at 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia (map it).

Splash Down Waterpark - Manassas, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 11 am - 6 pm

Splash Down Waterpark is Northern's Virginia largest waterpark. At this 13-acre park, you'll find a lazy river, cannon ball slides, 4-story water slides, a lap pool and more. Admission fees are $14.95 for those 48" and taller, $10.95 for those under 48" and free for kids 2 and under. Get your tickets online.

Splash Down Waterpark is located at 7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive, Manassas, Virginia (map it).

Strawberry Festival - Delaplane, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 10 am - 5 pm

Take a drive to Strawberry Festival in Delaplane, Virginia, to enjoy music, crafts, field games for kids, hay rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, puppet shows and plenty of ripe strawberries, of course! Fees for 1 day passes: $20 per car or $10 per motorcycle. Bus with more than 15 passengers is $5 per person.

The Strawberry Festival is held at Sky Meadows State Park, located at 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, Virginia (map it).

Sunset Celebration at Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, VA
Saturday, May 28 - Monday, May 31: 6 pm - 9 pm

Take evening tours and enjoy wine and desserts, 18th-century music, dancing, games and wagon rides. Say hello to Lady Washington and her granddaughter Nelly. Fees: $18 for adults, $12 for kids 6 to 11 and free for kids under 5. Get your tickets online.

George Washington's Mount Vernon is located at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: PBS National Memorial Concert - Washington, DC
Sunday, May 30: 8 pm - 9:30 pm

Free concert to the public on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol - no tickets are needed. Concert starts at 8 pm, but gates open at 5 pm. Taking public transportation is strongly recommended due to limited parking, street closings and high volume of traffic. You can take the Metro to Capitol South, Federal Center SW, or Union Station.

Access to concert is from Southwest area of the Capitol grounds. See map of the Capitol.

FREE: National Memorial Day Parade - Washington, DC
Monday, May 31: 2 pm

The National Memorial Day Parade is brought to you by the American Veterans Center. You can take the Metro to Archives/Navy Memorial, Smithsonian and Federal Triangle.

The parade will start at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, NW. See parade route.

FREE - Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival in Reston, VA: May 15 - 16, 2010

My daughter and I went to the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival at Reston Town Center yesterday. Between people watching and dog watching, we squeezed in some shopping and art making.

We headed down first to the Children's Art Tent, where we started with painting using magnets and finished with making an art with some play-doh like material.

We also checked out the community mural and couldn't resist to contribute.

We then walked around the festival to visit the various artists there. We did a little shopping, but what made it more fun was that my daughter got to see the various forms of arts at the festival, such as digital photography, oil painting, mixed media arts, metal sculptures and ceramic sculptures. I think I lost count on how many times I said,"Just look, no touching."

We checked out the food vendors at the festival, too, but we ended up eating dinner outside at one of the many restaurants at Reston Town Center. What a nice way to end the day!

This street festival is still going on today, Sunday, May 16th, from 10 am to 6 pm. Admissions and parking are free. So check it out with your family - dogs are welcome, too!

Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival is held at Reston Town Center. The Children's Art Tent is at the intersection of St. Francis Street and Town Square Street in Reston, Virginia (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids This Weekend: May 15 - 16, 2010

I'm glad that the storm and hail went away, because we're ready for a sunny weekend! Check out top 10 fun things to do with kids this weekend in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia: May 15 - 16, 2010.

FREE: Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival at Reston Town Center - Reston, VA
Saturday, May 15 and 16: 10 am - 6 pm

Experience art and enjoy live entertainment at the 19th Annual Northern Virginia Fine Art Festival, a street festival that's fun for the entire family. There is a special Children's Art Tent where kids get to discover and create wonderful arts, from contributing to a community mural to learning the science behind paint.

Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival is held at Reston Town Center. The Children's Art Tent is at the intersection of St. Francis Street and Town Square Street in Reston, Virginia (map it).

Mini Golf at Fairfax County Parks - Fairfax County, VA

Take your kids out for some mini golf fun - no $400 putter needed! Here are several Fairfax County parks that offer miniature golf: Oak-Marr Mini Golf, Burke Lake Park Mini Golf, Lucky Duck Miniature Golf Course at Accotink Lake Park and Jefferson Falls Mini Golf at Jefferson District Park. 

Fees vary by location, but they are typically between $4 and $6 per person.

Oak-Marr is located at 3200 Jermantown Rd in Oakton, Virginia (map it)
Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road in Fairfax Station, Virginia (map it)
Accotink Lake Park is located at 7500 Accotink Park Rd in Springfield, Virginia (map it)
Jefferson District Park is located at 7900 Lee Highway in Falls Church, Virginia (map it)

FREE: Gaithersburg Book Festival - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, May 15: 10 am - 6 pm

Meet and greet kids' favorite authors, enjoy a story time and participate in fun workshops and an art project for kids at Gaithersburg Book Festival in Gaithersburg this Saturday. Storytelling is scheduled for 12:30 pm, art project is between 10 am and 1 pm as well as between 2pm and 4:30 pm and workshops are scheduled throughout the day. Free admissions and free parking.

Gaithersburg Book Festival is held at Gaithersburg City Hall Grounds located at 31 S. Summit Ave in Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

The Red Balloon at Adventure Theatre - Glen Echo, MD
Saturday, May 15: 11 am, 1:30 pm and 4 pm
Sunday, May 16: 11 am and 1:30 pm

Based on the 1956 film and book Le Ballon Rouge by Albert Lamorisse, this play is about a young boy who discovers a stray balloon and then wonders through the streets of Paris with the balloon. Both parents and kids will be delighted with this classic story. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for kids ages 12 and under. Get your tickets online.

The Red Balloon is held at the Adventure Theatre in historic Glen Echo Park, located at 7300 MacArthur Blvd in Glen Echo (map it).

FREE: Family Activities & Storytime at National Museum of American Indian - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 15: 1 pm - 3:30 pm

Learn about the culture of American Indians through hands-on activities, such as beading, weaving, twining or creating a paper star quilt pattern from 1 to 3 pm. Storytimes are at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.

National Museum of American Indian is located at Independence Avenue Southwest & 4th St SW in Washington, DC (map it).

The Great Zucchini Magic Show - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 15: 10:30 am

See the Great Zucchini, Washington's magical preschool and kidergarten entertainer, performs a fun magic show at Jammin' Java in Vienna, Virginia. Your kid even gets to learn a magic trick! Tickets are $8 for everyone 12 months and older. Get your tickets online.

Jammin' Java is located at 227 Maple Ave E in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Curious George: Let's Get Curious! at Port Discovery - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, May 15: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, May 16: 12 pm - 5 pm

Your kid will enjoy interactive math, science and engineering in his or her adventure with Curious George at Port Discovery. Tickets are $12.95 for adults, $12.95 for kids ages 2 to 12 and free for kids younger than 2. Get your tickets online.

Port Discovery is located at 35 Market Place in Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Taste of Arlington - Arlington, VA
Sunday, May 16: 12 - 5 pm

Enjoy this lively street festival, where you and your family get to see live entertainment from local artists and fun kids' activities as well as sample delicious food from over 40 restaurants in Ballston area of Arlington, Virginia. Kids' activities include live entertainment and moon bounces. Free admissions, but tickets are required for food and drinks. Get your food tickets online.

Taste of Arlington is held on Wilson Blvd, in front of Ballston Common Mall in Arlington, Virginia (map it.

Open Gym Time at Jumping Jack Sports - Ashburn, VA
Saturday, May 15: 7 pm - 9 pm

Climb on cargo net, go through an inflatable obstacle course, traverse on a rock wall and other activities that will get your kids active through the whole time. Open gym time is for all ages, but kids 6 years and under must be supervised by parents. Fees are $10 for kids 2 years and older, $8 for siblings and $6 for kids ages 18 months to 2 years. Call 703-858-9901 for more information.

Jumping Jack Sports is located at 44710 Cape Court Suite 128 in Ashburn, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Kids Yoga on National Mall (DC Yoga Week) - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 15: 1 pm

Bring your yoga mat, snacks, drinks and your kid for a kids yoga session during DC Yoga Week by the Washington Monument. Free admissions.

Kids Yoga on National Mall takes at place at the northeast corner of the Washington Monument, near the intersection of 15th St. and Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC (map it).

Top 5 Things to Do with Kids in Washington DC This Sunny Weekend: March 5 - 7, 2010

This weekend's forecast is 50 and sunny, woohoo! Here are top 5 things you can do with your kids this sunny weekend. 

1. FREE kids' activities - Chocolate Lovers Festival in Fairfax, Virginia
So fun and delicious! Have chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast, see magic shows, enjoy storytimes, watch the chocolate caper mock trial, make crafts and journey to the jungle at the Chocolate Lovers Festival in the City of Fairfax, Virginia. Oh yeah, taste some chocolate, too! 

The festival is held on Saturday, March 6, and Sunday, March 7, but most of the kids' activities are held on Saturday. See schedule of events and more information.

2. See Justin Roberts perform at Jammin' Java in Vienna, Virginia
Indie singer Justin Roberts will be performing at Jammin' Java this weekend. Listen and dance to high-energy top kids' hits!

Showtimes are at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm at Jammin' Java this Saturday, March 6. The 10:30 am show is sold out, but you still can get tickets for the 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm shows. 

Tickets are $15 per person ($19 if you buy them online with the additional $4 convenience fee). Call 703-255-1566 for more information.

Jammin' Java is located at 227 Maple Ave E. in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

3. See Peter & the Wolf at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Maryland
See a lively theatrical version of this classic story in the Lerner Family Theater at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Maryland. Meet Peter and his friends, the starving Cat and the bickering Duck and Bird. See how they try to capture the Wolf to make the forest a safer place! Enjoy comedy, suspense and great music. Recommended for kids 5 and older. See review on the Washington Post.

Showtimes are at 11 am, 1:30 pm and 4 pm on Saturday, March 6, and 1:30 pm and 4 pm on Sunday, March 7.

Tickets range from $10 to $21 per person, depending on your seating area. Lap tickets are available for kids under 2 who do not take a seat for $5 per child. Get your tickets online or call 301-280-1660.

Imagination Stage is located at 4908 Auburn Ave in Bethesda, Maryland (map it). Free garage parking is available on Saturday and Sunday.

4. FREE - One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure at Albert Einstein Planetarium, National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Follow Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a Muppet from Zhima Jie, the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street. Show lasts 20 minutes.

Get your free tickets at the Planetarium box office. You can also order your tickets in advance by calling 202-633-4629 or 1-877-932-4629, but there is a $2 convenience fee per ticket if you order your tickets on the phone.

The National Air and Space Museum is located on Independence Avenue at 6th Street, NW, in Washington, DC (map it).

5. FREE - Continue celebrating Dr. Seuss's birthday by enjoying a storytime at a local bookstore
Take your pick - there are several local bookstores with free storytimes this weekend.

Friday, March 5:
- 10:30 am: Barnes & Noble in Fairfax, Virginia
- 11:00 am: The Story Tellers in Occoquan, Virginia

Saturday, March 6:
- 10:00 am: Barnes & Noble in Arlington, Virginia
- 11:00 am: Barnes & Noble in Bethesda, Maryland (Dr. Seuss theme)
- 11:00 am: Barnes & Noble in Rockville, Maryland
- 11:15 am: The Story Tellers in Occoquan, Virginia

Have a wonderful weekend, enjoy the sunshine!

5 Free Things To Do With Kids in Washington, DC, Metro Today: President's Day, February 15, 2010

Happy President's Day! Check out 5 free things that you can do with your kids today, February 15, 2010.

1. Visit George Washington at his estate in Mount Vernon, Virginia
Free admissions today to George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. Watch Patriotic Salute on the Bowling Green along with demonstration by U.S. Army Military District of Washington, featuring the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry, the Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps and the Commander-in-Chief's Guard at 10 am. Help surprise General Washington at 1:30 pm! Birthday cheers, a serenade and gifts are in order. This surprise is reminiscent of Washington's birthday in 1778.
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2. Visit historic sites in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Free admissions today to several historic sites in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, in honor of George Washington:
Christ Church, 118 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, Virginia - map it. 703-549-1450. 11 am - 4 pm.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street, Alexandria, Virginia - map it. 703-838-4242. 11 am - 4 pm.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia - map it. 703-838-3852. 11 am - 4 pm.
Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco Street, Alexandria, Virginia - map it. 703-548-1789. 10 am - 3 pm.

3. Take a winter stroll and visit farm animals at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon, Virginia
Free admissions. Take a leisurely stroll and visit farm animals at this historic park in Herndon, Virginia. See sheep, goats, cows, horses, turkeys, a peacock and pigs at this farm. Kids love to walk around and just watch the animals.
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4. Discover fossils and try on costumes at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC
Free admissions. The Discovery Room at the National Museum of Natural History is a hands-on room for families with children and students. Look at fossils, and skulls, try on costumers from around the world and more. Docents are available to assist and answer questions. Room is located on the 1st floor, East Wing, near African Voices.
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5. Enjoy story time at the Story Tellers in Occoquan, Virginia
Free for kids 8 and under. Join the Story Tellers for a few stories and some snacks at 11 am. Call 703-494-1994 for more information.
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President's Day Kids' Activities in Washington, DC, Metro

So you have Monday the 15th off? Take the time to celebrate President's Day with your kids!

President's Day at George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens
Free admissions on February 15th. Among special events on President's Day are breakfast featuring George Washington's favorite breakfast meal, experience an 18th-century military encampment by the Second North Carolina Regiment and surprise George Washington with a serenade and gifts. See schedule of events.

Happy President's Day at Port Discovery Children's Museum
Featuring Uncle Pete with Kids at 1 pm and 2 pm. Money Rubbings with coins from around the world from 1 pm to 3 pm. 35 Market Place, Baltimore, Maryland. Get tickets online.

Open House at Alexandria's Historic Sites
Enjoy free admissions to these historic sites in Alexandria, Virginia:
The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum: 210 S. Washington Street, Alexandria. 11 am to 5 pm. Call 703-838-4994 for more information.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum: 134 N. Royal Street, Alexandria. 11 am to 4 pm (last tour at 3:15). Call 703-838-4242 for more information.
Friendship Firehouse Museum: 107 S. Alfred Street, Alexandria. 10 am to 4 pm. Call 703-838-3891 for more information.
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum: 105-107 South Fairfax Street, Alexandria. 1 pm to 4 pm (last tour at 3:45 pm. Call 703-838-3852 for more information.
Carlyle House: 121 N. Fairfax Street, Alexandria. 11 am to 4 pm. Call 703-549-2997 for more information.
Lee-Fendall House Museum: 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria. 10 am to 4 pm (last tour at 3 pm). Call 703-548-1789 for more information.
Christ Church: 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria. 11 am to 4 pm. Call 703-549-1450 for more information.

George Washington Birthday Parade in Old Town Alexandria
Canceled due to snow emergency, originally scheduled from 1 to 3 pm.