Fun Things To Do With Kids: Washington, DC

Top 10 Free Things to Do This 4th of July Weekend in Washington DC Metro and Baltimore

Happy Independence Day! There are so many fireworks shows in Washington, DC and Baltimore metro areas this weekend, all you have to do is take your pick. 

Here are 10 free and fun activities that you can do with your family this weekend. Yes, many of them are fireworks show, but many places also hold free concerts and/or street festivals during the day. Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

FREE: A Signature Event at the White House Visitor Center - Washington, DC
Sunday, July 4: 9 am - 3 pm

Stop by the White House Visitor Center on 4th of July to experience what it would be like to be a signer of the Declaration of Independence for a day. Events for the day (9 am to 3 pm) include games, crafts and activities for kids. At 11 am and 2 pm, you can play a role as a delegate to the Continental Congress and represent your colony. Sign a giant sized copy of the Declaration of Independence with your quill pen, ring a Liberty Bell and receive a copy of the Declaration of Independence as a keepsake.

The White House Visitor Center at 1450 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, is between 14th and 15th Streets, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE: Concerts at Reston Town Center - Reston, VA
Saturday, July 3: 11 am - 11:45 am and 7:30 pm - 10 pm
Monday, July 5: 10:30 am - 11:15 am

Check out several free outdoor concerts going on at Reston Town Center this weekend. Sing along with award-winning children's musician Mister Don on Saturday at 11 am as a part of Reston Town Center's Family Fun Series. Enjoy motion songs, sing alongs and rhythm instruments at this fun event for your entire family. On Saturday evening starting at 7:30 pm, bring your lawn chair to the town center's pavilion and enjoy performance by swing/big band jazz Upper East Side Big Band. On Monday at 10:30 am, enjoy performance by Mr. Knick Knack.

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

FREE: Smithsonian Folklife Festival - Washington, DC
Friday, July 2: 11 am - 9 pm
Saturday, July 3: 11 am - 8 pm
Sunday, July 4: 11 am - 5:30 pm
Monday, July 5: 11 am - 5:30 pm

Live entertainment, arts and crafts, festival food and more at this street festival. Learn about cultures from various parts of the world and taste food from Asia and Mexico. Free admissions.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held on the National Mall between the Smithsonian museums in Washington, DC (map it). Download festival map.

FREE: National Mall Independence Day Celebration - Washington, DC
Sunday, July 4: 9:10 pm - 9:27 pm

Enjoy fireworks at the National Mall in Washington, DC. Free admissions. Take public transportation because traffic will be jammed after the fireworks. It is best to view the fireworks at a distance from the launch site (Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool), such as Lincoln Memorial, National Mall between 14th Street and 3rd Street, U.S. Marine Corp War Memorial/Iwo Jima and Thomas Jefferson Memorial. More on directions to National Mall.

FREE: Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration - Baltimore, MD
Sunday, July 4: 2 pm - 10 pm

Enjoy live performances at Baltimore Inner Harbor by jazz band Lovecraft at 2 pm and the Naval Academy's Electric Brigade band at 4 pm. Fireworks show starts at 9:30 pm. See the show from Harbor East, Federal Hill, Fell's Point, Canton and beyond.

Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration is held at Baltimore Inner Harbor, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Frederick's 4th - Frederick, MD
Sunday, July 4: 12 - 9 pm

Live entertainment, chili cook-off competition, festival food, kids activities and fireworks display. Activities at Kids Zones start at 12:30 and end at 7:30 pm, and they include inflatable amusements, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, remote control cars, mural painting and scavenger hunt. Live entertainment starts at 12:45. Free admissions. Many of the Kids Zones activities are also free; activities that require fees are inflatable amusements ($10 unlimited play), pony rides ($4 per ride) and face painting ($5 to $10). 

Frederick's 4th is held at Baker Park, Frederick, Maryland (map it). Free parking decks are available on Church St, Court St, W. Patrick St and Carroll Creek. Parking is also available at Frederick High School for $4 to benefit Frederick High School Sports Boosters. More on parking and directions.

FREE: July 4th Celebration and Fireworks Show - Vienna, VA
Sunday, July 4: 11 am - 4:30 pm with fireworks at 9:15 pm

Check out classic cars, grab a bite to eat at chili cook-off, participate in arts and crafts, have fun with family games and enjoy live music performances. Fireworks start at 9:15 pm at Southside Park in Vienna, Virginia. Free admissions.

Celebration is held on Vienna Community Center grounds, located at 20 Cherry St, SE, Vienna, Virginia (map it). Download map of the festival.

FREE: Herndon 4th of July Celebration - Herndon, VA
Sunday, July 4: 5 pm - 10 pm

Games, relay races, arts and crafts, bounce houses, small rides, bingo, festival food and more. Fireworks start at 9:30 pm. Free admissions; small rides and bounce houses have a charge per use. Parking is available at Herndon Middle School and Herndon Community Center. 

Festival takes place at Herndon Community Center, located at 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Independence Day Celebration - Rockville, MD
Sunday, July 4: 7 pm - 10 pm

Enjoy band performances starting at 7 pm at Montgomery College - Rockville campus. Fireworks show starts at 9:30 pm.

Montgomery College - Rockville campus is located at 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Fourth of July Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony - Annapolis, MD
Sunday, July 4: 9:30 am - 2 pm

Celebrate Independence Day at the home of Declaration of Independence signer William Paca. Naturalization ceremony starts at 9:30 am, then family events start at 10 am. Activities include tours of the Pacas' home, live musical performances, a Revolutionary War encampment, patriotic crafts for kids and signing the Declaration of Independence with a quill pen. Free admissions.

Fourth of July Celebration is held at William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George St, Annapolis, Maryland (map it).

Rainy Day Activities in Washington, DC Metro Today, June 9, 2010

Where did the sun go this morning? No worries! You can still have fun with the kids on this rainy day. Here are several open play times in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland that you can go to today.

At Play Cafe - Reston, VA
Open play time at At Play Cafe today is from 9:30 am to 7 pm. Fees: $8 for the first child and $6 for each additional sibling. Babies under 8 months are free. Read my review of At Play Cafe.

At Play Cafe is located at 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza, Reston, Virginia (map it).

The Family Room - Washington, DC
Open play time at the Family Room today is from 9 am to 6 pm. Fees: $10 for the first child and $5 for each additional sibling. If you stop by after 3 pm, fee is $5 per child. Call 202-640-1865 for more information.

The Family Room is located at 411 8th St SE, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC (map it).

FunFit Family Fitness - Rockville, MD
Open play time at FunFit Family Fitness today is from 10 am to 2 pm. Fees for members: $7 per child, $6 for each additional sibling and $15 per family maximum. Fees for non-members: $9 per child, $8 for each additional sibling and $20 per family maximum.

FunFit Family Fitness is located at 17511 Redland Rd , Rockville, Maryland (map it).

JW Tumbles - Arlington, VA
Open play time at JW Tumbles of Arlington today is from 9 am to 1 pm. Fees: $6 for members enrolled in a class, $8 for members not enrolled in a class and $10 for non-members. Call 703-531-1471 for more information.

JW Tumbles of Arlington is located at 2499 N. Harrison St, Arlington, Virginia (map it).

MoBu Kids - Falls Church, VA
Open play time at MoBu Kids today is from 12:30 pm to 5 pm. Call 703-241-PLAY for more information.

MoBu Kids is located at 442 South Washington St, Falls Church, Virginia (map it).

Pump It Up - Leesburg, VA
Pop in play time at Pump It Up today is from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. Fees: $10 per child. For kids ages 2 to 12. Call 703-443-1400 for more information.

Pump It Up is located at 73 Lawson Road SE, Leesburg, Virginia (map it).

Sport Bounce of Loudoun - Ashburn, VA
There are two open gym times at Sport Bounce of Loudoun today: from 10 am to 11:30 am (for kids 18 months to 6 years) and from 12 pm to 1:30 pm (for kids 18 months and older). Fees: $10 for the first child (2 and older), $8 for each additional sibling (2 and older), $6 for kids ages 18 to 24 months. Call 703-729-9522 for more information.

Sport Bounce of Loudoun is located at 44710 Cape Ct., Suite #116, Ashburn, Virginia (map it).

Hometown Holidays in Rockville, Maryland

We had a chance to stop by Hometown Holidays yesterday, a street festival in Rockville Town Square, Rockville, Maryland. It was so hot, but we cooled down with some yummy milkshake! The cutest thing there was a kiddie ferris wheel, check out the picture below. You can see some more pictures on my Facebook page as well.

The festival is still going on today, Monday, May 31st. There are no kids activities today, but you can check out a Memorial Day parade and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants at Rockville Town Square.

 

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.

Easter Egg Hunts & Celebrations in Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia

My daughter has been hopping a lot more these days, probably because we've been talking about the Easter bunny! We unfortunately did not win a lottery for the White House Easter Egg Roll, but grandma and grandpa came to the rescue with another Easter Egg Hunt event for her.

Here are some things you can do with your kids to celebrate Easter in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia.

Bunnyland at Butler's Orchard, Germantown, MD
March 27 - April 3, April 5, 10 and 11, 9 am - 3 pm

Besides Easter Egg Hunt, enjoy a hayride down the bunny trail, try your skill at rubber ducky derby, ride the pedal tractor, swoosh down giant slides, get your face painted, do crafts and visit bunnies, lambs and chicks. Pony ride is available for a small extra fee. Food vendors will be offering hot dogs, veggie pitas, soup, popcorn, cookies and more. $8 for kids and $6 for adults. Call 301-972-3299 for more information.

The Butler's Orchard is located at 22222 Davis Mill Road in Germantown, Maryland (map it).

Bunny Business for Tiny Tots at the Puppet Company, Glen Echo, MD
Wednesday, March 24 and Saturday, March 27, 10 am - 10:30 am

Celebrate spring with bunnies, birds, flowers, a frog and a turtle. This puppet show is designed for kids up to 4 years old. Lights stay on, doors stay open and the show only lasts for 30 minutes. $5 per person, including babies. Get your tickets online or call 301-634-5380 for more information.

The Puppet Company is located at 7300 MacArthur Boulevard in Glen Echo, Maryland (map it).

FREE - Easter Bunny at Cox Farms, Centreville, VA
Saturday, April 3, 10 am - 2 pm

Come see the Easter Bunny at Cox Farms in Centreville, Virginia. Have fun with bunny games and egg coloring. Say hello to spring farm animals, including goats, chickens and bunnies. This event is held at the Centreville Market (corner of Braddock Road and Pleasant Valley Road), not at the Fall Festival grounds.

Cox Farms is located at in Centreville, Virginia (map it).

Easter Egg Hunt at Ida Lee Park, Leesburg, VA
Saturday, March 27, 12 pm - 4 pm

Easter Egg Hunt includes candy filled eggs, prizes, entertainment and more. Rain or shine. In addition to Easter Egg Hunt, there will be unlimited rides on a jumbo slide, rock climbing wall, obstacle courses and face painting. Food vendors will be on site, but you are also welcome to bring lunches and have a picnic at the park. $10 for kids in advance or $12 for kids at the gate. Free for parents and kids over the age of 7 who are not participating in Easter Egg Hunt. Register online or call 703-777-1368 for more information.

Ida Lee Park is located at 60 Ida Lee Dr NW in Leesburg, Virginia (map it). Parking is available in the front fields located off Rt. 15/North King Street. 

Easter Egg Hunt at Meadowland Park, Rockville, MD
Friday, April 2, 10 am - 2:30 pm

Hunt for eggs through the meadows, then dye and decorate the eggs that you find. $7 for kids ages 2 to 12. Register online or call 301-924-4141 for more information.

Meadowland Park is located at 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rock Creek Regional Park, Rockville, Maryland (map it).

Easter Egg Hunt at the Reston Zoo, Reston, VA
Saturday, April 3 and Sunday, April 4, 11:15 am, 1:15 pm and 3:15 pm

Find the golden egg and win an Easter basket prize! Free face painting, pictures with Easter Bunny and friends (chicks, lambs and bunnies). Bring your own Easter egg basket. There are three Egg Hunts available: 11:15 am, 1:15 pm and 3:15 pm. Limited one egg hunt per person per day. Free with general admissions: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors (65+), $9 for kids ages 2 to 12 and free for kids under 2 years old. Call 703-757-6222 for more information.

The Reston Zoo is located at 1228 Hunter Mill Road in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Easter Egg Hunt at Turtle Park, Washington, DC
Monday, April 5, 3:30 pm

Have fun hunting for Easter eggs at Turtle Park in Washington, DC.

Turtle Park is located at 45th & Van Ness, NW, Washington DC (map it).

Easter Egg Hunt & Live Petting Zoo at Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro, Reston, VA
Sunday, April 4, 11 am - 3 pm

Enjoy a bountiful Easter brunch for the whole family. Entertainment for kids include a visit from the Easter Bunny, an Easter Egg Hunt and a live petting zoo, including bunnies and chicks, courtesy of Leesburg Animal Park. $40 for adults and $18 for kids under 12. Call 703-234-3550 for reservations.

Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro is located at the Westin at Reston Heights, 11750 Sunrise Valley Drive in Reston, Virginia (map it).

Easter Egg Roll at the White House
Monday, April 5, 7:45 am - 5:45 pm 

Besides Easter Egg Roll, enjoy other activities and entertainment that include live music, sports courts, cooking stations and storytelling. It's too late now to enter the lottery, so remember to enter next year's online lottery. More details.

Easter Lunch at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse in Tyson's Corner
Sunday, April 4, 12 - 5 pm

Family-friendly Easter celebration includes free face painting, balloon sculptures and ice cream for kids. Lunch is from 12 to 3 pm and dinner is from 4 to 9 pm. Kids entertainment is from 1 to 5 pm. Call 954-712-0580 to make your reservation.

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse is located at 8010 Towers Crescent Drive in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Easter Messy Art at At Play Cafe, Reston, VA
Friday, April 2, 4:30 pm and Saturday, April 3, 11 am

Get messy with fun Easter art at At Play Cafe in Reston, Virginia. Grab some coffee and snacks in the cafe while your kids are having a fun time at the supervised play area right next to the cafe. Admissions: $8 for kids, $6 for siblings, free for babies under 8 months old.

At Play Cafe is located at 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza in Reston, Virginia (map it).

FREE - Easter Monday: Celebrating the African American Family at the National Zoo
Monday, April 5, 10 am - 4 pm

A Washington DC multicultural tradition for many years, Easter Monday features a variety of special family activities and entertainment at the National Zoo in Washington, DC. There will be special opportunities to learn more about the animals at the zoo and an array of delicious food. Free admissions. Rain or shine. 

The National Zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW in Washington, DC (map it and more details on parking/Metro)

FREE - Eggstravaganza at the Story Tellers, Occoquan, VA
Saturday, April 3, at 12 pm

Enjoy a special story time, participate in an Egg Hunt, a spring craft and other spring games at the Story Tellers in Occoquan, Virginia. Free for kids ages 8 and under.

Other Easter celebrations at the Story Tellers include Easter Egg Decorating on Monday, March 29, at 10:30 am and Egg Hunt and Spring Craft on Friday, April 2, at 10:30 am. Both events are free for kids ages 6 and under. Call 703-494-1994 for more information.

The Story Tellers is located at 308-D Poplar Alley in Occoquan, Virginia (map it).

Eggstraordinary Easter Brunch at Lansdowne Resort, Lansdowne, VA
Sunday, April 4, 11 am - 3 pm

Enjoy a wonderful Easter brunch with your family at Lansdowne Resort in Lansdowne, Virginia. Kids' activities include Easter egg hunts, balloon artists and arts and crafts. $65 for adults, $15 for kids 6 to 12 and free for kids under 6. Call 703-729-8400 for reservations.

Lansdowne Resort is located at 44050 Woodridge Parkway in Lansdowne, Virginia (map it).

Eggstravaganza at the Tudor Place, Georgetown, Washington, DC
Saturday, April 3, 10 am - 12 pm

A popular Egg Hunt in Washington, DC, and a thrilling Egg Roll Contest. After the games, decorate festive eggs and build a spring basket. Easter Bunny is available for pictures all morning. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Tudor Place's 5.5 acres of glorious gardens. The Egg Hunt starts at 10:30 am and the Egg Roll follows at 10:45 am. Bring your own Easter Egg basket, spoon and one hard-boiled egg per child. $10 for kids, $7 for kids who are members and $3 for adults. Register online or call 202-965-0400 for more information.

The Tudor Place is located at 1644 31st Street, NW, in Washington, DC (map it).

PS: We're giving away an Easter dress or an Easter suit! See more details about this fun giveaway. Last day to enter for a chance to win is Wednesday, March 17.

2010 Spring Break Camps in Maryland

Still need to find Spring Break camps for your kids? Here are some day camps in Maryland. Also see Spring Break camps in Fairfax County, Virginia, Loudoun County, Virginia and Washington, DC.

Acting and Dance Camps at Imagination Stage, Bethesda, MD
What? Kids get to explore the worlds of theatre, film and dance. Programs include creative drama, theatre, jazz, hip-hop and fundamentals of acting. 

When? Three sessions are available: March 29 - April 1, 9 am to 3:30 pm for kids in grades 2 to 4. March 29 - April 1, 9 am to 3:30 pm for kids in grades 5 - 8.

Where? Imagination Stage is located at 4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20814 (map it)

How much? $180 for a full week of either morning or afternoon and $330 for a full week of both morning and afternoon sessions ($320 for members). $70 extra for after care. Register online or call 301-280-1660 for more information.

Club Holiday Camp, Potomac and Germantown, MD
What? Age appropriate sports, games, arts and crafts, directed by a Cruise Director. The cruise will feature organized activities and special events. For kids ages 3 to 12.

When? March 29 to April 2, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (kids ages 3 to 5) or from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm (kids ages 6 to 12).

Where? Camp will be held at two locations: Potomac Community Center at 11315 Falls Road, Potomac, Maryland (map it) and Germantown Recreation Center at 18905 Kingsview Road, Germantown, Maryland (map it).

How much? $106 for Montgomery County residents, $1116 for non-residents (9:30 am - 12:30 pm). $169 for Montgomery County residents, $179 for non-residents (9:30 am - 3:30 pm). Register online or call 301-983-2690 for more information.

Foreign Language Camp at Lango, Silver Spring, MD
What? Learn Spanish, Mandarin and French. For kids ages 4 to 10.

When? March 29 to April 2, from 9 am to 12 pm.

Where? Camp will be held at 925 Wayne Avenue in Silver Spring, Maryland (map it).

How much? $249 for the week. $40 material fees for first-time students. Register online or call 1-888-445-2646 for more information.

Multi-Sport Camp by Headfirst, Bethesda, MD
What? Your kids will enjoy playing baseball, street hockey, flag football, basketball, European team handball, soccer and lacrosse. On rainy days, sports will be played indoors except for lacrosse and baseball. For kids ages 5 to 12. Five-year-old campers will play t-ball instead of baseball and will not participate in lacrosse.

When? March 29 to April 2, from 9 am to 3 pm. Extended care available from 7:30 am until 6 pm.

Where? Camp will be held at Mater Dei School, located at 9600 Seven Locks Road in Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

How much? $375. Register online or call for more information.

Riding Camp at Columbia Horse Center, Laurel, MD
What? Your kids will ride horses twice a day and help with barn duties, such as feeding, turnout, treatments and grooming. They'll also play games, go on a trail ride, participate in a costume contest, play with the ponies and more. For kids ages 5 to 15.

When? April 5 to 9, from 9 am to 4 pm. Extended care is available from 8 am to 6 pm.

Where? Columbia Horse Center is located at Laurel, Maryland (map it).

How much? $395 for the full week or $85 per day. Before and after care is $55 for the week or $15 per day.

Sports Camp at Rockville SportsPlex, Rockville, MD
What? Learn and play various sports, such as flag football, soccer, wiffleball, volleyball, basketball, kickball, team handball and more. Subway lunch and a t-shirt included. For kids ages 6 to 12.

When? March 29 to April 2, half day is from 9 am to 2 pm and full day is from 8 am to 6 pm.

Where? Rockville SportsPlex is located at 60 Southlawn Court in Rockville, Maryland (map it).

How much? $195 for the week (9 am - 2 pm), $295 for the week (8 am - 6 pm, $45 per half day (9 am - 2 pm) and $65 per full day (8 am - 6 pm). Register online or call 301-838-4455 for more information.

Springtime Story Ballets at Ballet Petite, Bethesda, MD
What? Learn ballet with different themes based on favorite stories each day, such as Guess How Much I Love You, the Golden Egg and A Tale for Easter. Snacks, customized craft activities, costumes and props are included. For kids ages 3 to 4.

When? March 29 to April 2, from 9:30 am to 12 pm.

Where? Ballet Petite is located at 4701 Sangamore Road in Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

How much? $225 for the full week or $50 per day. Download registration form or call 301-229-6882 for more information.

Springtime Story Ballets at Ballet Petite, Gaithersburg, MD
What? Learn ballet with different themes based on favorite stories each day, such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Magic Hill. Lively music, colorful tutus and props. Enjoy a te party snack and fun crafts. For kids ages 3 to 7.

When? March 22 to 26 and March 29 to April 2, from 9 am to 12 pm and 12 pm to 3 pm. 

Where? Ballet Petite is located at the Kentlands, 367 Main Street, Suite 100, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

How much? $150 for the full week or $30 per day. Download registration form or call 301-229-6882 for more information.

More spring break camps in Maryland:
Montgomery County Recreation Department
Our Kids
Washington Parents 

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!

National Pancake Day = Free Pancakes!

Who doesn't like pancakes? Who doesn't like FREE pancakes? Yep, I said free.

Just swing by a participating IHOP restaurant between 7 am and 10 pm today, February 23rd, and you'll get a free short stack (three) of their buttermilk pancakes. As you're enjoying your delicious pancakes, consider making a donation to support local children's hospitals through Children's Miracle Network or other local charities.

Before you go to your nearest IHOP, call them first to see if they participate in this fun day. If you don't know where the nearest IHOP is, check out their restaurant locator. Note that this is for dine-in only and there's a limit of one free short stack per guest.

Happy pancake day!

Chinese New Year Celebrations in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia

Did you know that Valentine's Day this year is the same day as Chinese New Year? The year of the tiger starts on February 14th this year. Check out several places where you can celebrate this Chinese holiday with your kids in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Chinese New Year Parade and Lunar Year Festival in Chinatown, Washington, DC
At the parade, watch a traditional lion dance, enjoy live music, watch kung fu demonstrations and see a giant firecracker set off. At the festival, enjoy live martial art performances, watch art performances and participate in hands-on crafts projects.

When: February 21st. Lunar Year Festival is from 12 pm to 5 pm and parade is from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Where: Parade will start on H Street, NW, between 6th and 8th Streets, Washington, DC. Festival will be held at Chinatown Community Cultural Center on 616 H Street, Washington, DC.

How much: Free admissions.

Chinese New Year Festival in Falls Church, Virginia
This festival is sponsored by Asian Community Service Center. Watch cultural performances, including dragon and lion dances, enjoy Asian foods, participate in Chinese cooking and language workshops and enjoy kids' activities. See their schedule of events for more information.

When: February 13th, from 10 am to 7 pm, and February 14th, from 11 am to 7 pm. 

Where: Festival will be held at Luther Jackson Middle School, 3020 Gallows Road,  Falls Church, Virginia.

How much: Free admissions.

Celebrate the Lunar Year in Fairfax, Virginia
See live performances, such as music, dance, kung fu demonstrations, a lantern festival and more. 

When: February 13th and 14th, from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Where: Fair Oaks Mall, 11570 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, Virginia. Festival will be held in Grand Court.

How much: Free admissions.

Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration in Gaithersburg, Maryland
See a special exhibit "The Great Teacher & Philosopher: Confucius," see displays of Chinese art and culture, watch martial arts demonstrations and more. Opening ceremony is on the 13th, featuring a traditional lion dance at noon. Call 301-840-5840 for more information.

When: Saturdays and Sundays from February 13th to 21st, from 12 pm to 5 pm.

Where: Lake Forest Mall, 701 Russell Avenue Gaithersburg, Maryland. Celebration will be held at the Center Court.

How much: Free admissions.

Celebrate the Lunar Year in Rockville, Maryland
Watch demonstrations and performances, practice Chinese character writing and enjoy delicious Asian foods supplied by local restaurants. Call 240-314-8316 for more information.

When: February 20th, from 12 pm to 2:30 pm.

Where: F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre and Social Hall at Rockville Civic Center Park, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, Maryland.

How much: Free admissions.

Snowmageddon Day 3 - What's Open in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland?

The federal government is closed today, which means many companies and schools are also closed. Public schools in Fairfax County, Montgomery County, Loudoun County, Prince George's County and Washington, DC are all closed.

This also means that many museums, attractions and restaurants in the area are also closed. Don't fret! Here are several family-friendly attractions and restaurants in Washington, DC, metro that are open today, Monday, February 8th. Call them first in case they change their operating hours today.

Museums & Attractions
At Play Cafe
Open today from 11 am to 7 pm. 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza, Reston, Virginia. 703-391-6131.

International Spy Museum
Open today from 10 am to 6 pm. 800 F St, NW, Washington, DC. 202-393-7798.

National Geographic Museum
Open today from 9 am to 5 pm. 17th & M Streets NW, Washington, DC. 202-857-7588

The Newseum
Open today from 9 am to 5 pm. 555 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC. 1-888-639-7386.

Sport Bounce of Loudoun
Open bounce time today from 2:30 to 4 pm. 44710 Cape Ct, Suite #116, Ashburn, Virginia. 703-729-9522.

Restaurants
Austin Grill
Most locations are open until 9:30 or 10:30 pm:
801 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia. 703-684-8969.
7278 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, Maryland. 301-656-1366.
36 Maryland Avenue, Unit A, Rockville, Maryland. 301-838-4281.
919 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland. 240-247-8969.
750 E Street, NW, Washington, DC. 202-393-3776.
8430-A Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, Virginia. 703-644-3111.

Chinatown Coffee Co
Open today until 6 pm. 475 H Street, NW, Washington, DC. Just 2 blocks from the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro Station, at the corner of 5th and H. 202-559-7656.

Clyde's
All locations are open today. Here are a few of their locations listed, see their website for a full list of locations:
Clyde's of Chevy Chase, 5441 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, Maryland. 301-951-9600. Open from 11 am to 10:30 pm. 
Clyde's of Georgetown, 3236 M Street, NW, Washington, DC. 202-333-9180. Open from 11 am to 10:30 pm.
Clydes of Reston, 11905 Market Street, Reston, Virginia (Reston Town Center). 703-787-6601. Open from 11 am to 10 pm.
Clyde's of Tysons Corner, 8332 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, Virginia. 703-734-1901. Open from 11 am to 10 pm.

HomeMade Pizza Co.
All locations are open today from 3 to 7 pm:
5632 Connecticut NW, Washington, DC (Chevy Chase neighborhood). 202-806-8888.
4514 Lee Hwy, Arlington, Virginia (Lee Heights Shops). 703-527-6556.
13300 Franklin Farm Rd, Herndon, Virginia (Franklin Farm Village Center). 571-203-9898.

Peregrine Espresso
Open today from 7 am to 9 pm. 660 Pennsylvania Ave, SE, Washington DC. 202-629-4381.

Know more places that are open today? Tweet us @kidsthingstodo or post on our Facebook page!