Get Out and Stay Out in DC Metro: October 24th – 28th

 

 

The week leading up to Halloween is always fun in the DC Metro area, so get out and play!

Monday, October 24th    Forest Fledglings 

9:45am @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

New topic each week for parent and child (quiet siblings welcome.) Stories, crafts and nature activities leading to outdoor exploration. Dress for weather. Call nature center for weekly topic.

 

Tuesday, October 25th    Kids Read to Dogs (Paws to Read)

5:30pm @ Westover Branch Library, Arlington

Children grades K – 5 are invited to read to therapy dogs. Each “Paws to Read” child is given a 15-minute session where they will be paired with a canine listener. Volunteers (both owners and dogs) are part of PAL (People. Animals. Love.), an animal therapy organization. All participating dogs are trained and certified. Studies have shown that reading to a dog (or other non-judgmental audience) can help improve a child’s reading level and increase their enjoyment of reading. Please register for a slot by calling (703) 228-5260.

 

Tuesday, October 25th    Whoo’s About 

10:30am – 11:30am & 1:30pm – 2:30pm @ Long Branch Nature Center, Arlington

Wondering who’s out at night, lurking just out of sight. Don’t let these creatures give a you a fright, come and learn they do not bite! For ages 3 – 5 years.  Registration is required.  Activity #: 612911

Wednesday, October 26th  Halloween at Whole Foods

5pm – 7pm @ Old Town Whole Foods, Alexandria

Start your night off by experiencing the mystery boxes and then continue to experience Halloween by Trick-or-Treating around the store. A night full of costumes, snacks, and fun! Trick-or-treating starts at 5 pm and goes until 7 pm.

 

Thursday, October 27th    Harvest Halloween  

10:15am & 11:30am @ Ripley Center, Smithsonian, Washington, DC

Join Oran Sandel at the Discovery Theater pumpkin patch for songs, games, and more. He’ll spin an American Indian harvest story; you will look inside Mr. Jack O’ Lantern (what really makes him tick?); and you will create a pumpkin face for Discovery Theater. Bring in YOUR design, and they will post it on their Facebook page.  For ages 3 – 8.  Also on Friday, 10/28.

 

Friday, October 28th    OctoberFest @ Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center

4pm – 8pm @ Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center, Alexandria

This is an opportunity for the entire family to dress up in their best costume for Halloween Fun! Families will be able to particpate in Halloween Arts & Crafts, Spooky Musical Chairs, Face Painting, Scary Movies, Haunted House Tours and much more!!!

 

 

Friday, October 28th    Pippi in America with Sarah Riedel  Swedish Children’s Songs in Playful Jazz Versions  
10am & 12pm @ Dome Theatre, Artishere, Arlington 

Pippi in America is an acoustic performance where the musicians combine well known Swedish children’s songs with beloved characters such as Pippi Longstocking and jazz. Sweden’s Sarah Riedel is a thought-provoking, elegant, and emotional jazz vocalist who was nominated in 2010 and 2011 for the Swedish Radio Corporation’s prestigious Jazzkatten Award.  This event is free!

 

NSO at Wolf Trap

Courtesy of Wolf Trap

Wolf Trap is offering some great discounts for their final three National Symphony Orchestra performances at Wolf Trap this summer- Disney in Concert, Tan Dun: Martial Arts Trilogy, and Arlo Guthrie & Time For Three.

Disney in Concert- Thursday August 4, 2011 at 8:30 pm

Have a magical experience as you enjoy The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and more come to life with video clips and songs from your favorite Disney movies on giant screens in-house and on the lawn. To receive a 10% discount off in-house seats use the code MAGICAL when you purchase tickets online here.

Tan Dun: Martial Arts Trilogy- Friday, August 5, 2011 at 8:30 pm

Experience scenes from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and other critically acclaimed martial arts films tell tales of love, betrayal, death, revenge, and resurrection on huge screens in-house and on the lawn. To receive a 50% discount off in-house seats use the codePOINTS when you purchase you tickets online here.

Arlo Guthrie & Time for Three- Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 8:15 pm

Folk music legend Arlo Guthrie joins Time for Three—a charismatic ensemble with a reputation for limitless enthusiasm and no musical boundaries. Get your 10% discount off in-house seats by using the code ARLO when you purchase your tickets online here.

 

Get Out and Stay Out with Kids in DC Metro: July 25th – 29th

 

Monday, July 25th    Nature Center at Libraries: A Tale of Tails
1:30pm – 2:15pm @ Glencarlyn Library, Arlington & 4:30pm – 5:15pm @
Cherrydale Library, Arlington
Long Branch Nature Center takes its show on the road for the Arlington County Libraries’ Summer Reading Quest. This year’s theme is “One World, Many Stories”. They will concentrate on the many tales around the world about animal’s tails.  Naturalist Alonso Abugattas from Long Branch Nature Center for stories of foresty friends.  Hear some of these stories and even get a chance to meet some animals with some interesting tails to be told about!  Get Caught Reading summer performances are designed for children entering kindergarten through 5th grade.  Tickets are required for all participants and will be distributed only to age appropriate children and one accompanying adult per child.  FREE TICKETS will be available at each location on the day before the performance on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.

 

 

Tuesday, July 26th    The Wonder of Whales 

10:30am – 11:30am & 3:30pm – 4:30pm @ Long Branch Nature Center, Arlington

Preschoolers will learn about these amazing mammals of the ocean.  Parents are invited to stay and observe, or those with younger siblings may visit the rest of the building during the program. Parents must remain on-site.  There is a $5 fee due upon registration.  Ages: 3 – 5 years.

 

Tuesday, July 26th    Kofi Dennis Djembe Storytelling

1:30pm @ Shirlington Library, Arlington & 7pm @ Central Library, Arlington

Wolf Trap Institute artist, Kofi Dennis, brings creative dramatics, movement, and storytelling through Djembe drumming.  Get Caught Reading summer performances are designed for children entering kindergarten through 5th grade.  Tickets are required for all participants and will be distributed only to age appropriate children and one accompanying adult per child.  FREE TICKETS will be available at each location on the day before the performance on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.

 

 

Tuesday, July 26th    Singalong Party 

11am @ Barrett Branch Library, Alexandria

Music with Barbara Effron & Lisa Springer.   All programs at Barrett Branch are recommended for kids ages 2 & up

 

Wednesday, July 27th    Tiny Tot

10am – 10:45am @ Long Branch Nature Center, Arlington

Tiny Tot programs provide a wonderful opportunity to interact one-on-one with your child while discovering the wonders of nature. Each fun and educational program will engage your child with hands-on learning, and may include a variety of activities like songs, crafts, finger plays and mini-hikes. Tiny Tot programs are offered throughout the year at both Gulf Branch and Long Branch Nature Centers. Each program has a theme, but themes are not published ahead of time so that we have flexibility in exploring and incorporating all of the amazing and changeable aspects of the park and its wildlife into our programs. The theme for each program is repeated during the month, so please register for only one program at each nature center per month. Adults must remain during the entire program. $5 fee due upon registration.  Ages: 18 – 35 months with adult.

Wednesday, July 27th    The Three Not-So-Little Pigs  

3:30am @ Duncan Branch Library, Alexandria

Blue Sky Puppet Theatre performs.

 

Wednesday, July 27th    4-Day Family Fest: Owney

11am – 3pm @ Postal Museum, Washington, DC

All aboard for a rail-riding good time with Owney the dog! This celebration includes fun, hands-on activities the kids will love.  Owney and the U.S. Postal Service invite you to celebrate the issuance of a Forever stamp celebrating this lovable dog. Enjoy remarks by special guests and the opportunity to purchase Owney stamps and first day covers. After the ceremony, enjoy Owney Fest hands-on activities for families including:

• Design a tag for Owney
• Race to sort mail in the Railway Post Office
• Make a topical stamp collection to take home
• Do a scavenger hunt and win a prize

Schedule:

• 11 a.m. – Noon: First Day of Issue Ceremony and Remarks
• Noon – 3 p.m.: Owney Festival (hands-on activities and family fun)
• 1 p.m. – Book reading by Mona Kerby, author of Owney, The Mail-Pouch Pooch
• 2 p.m. – Book talk by Dirk Wales, author of A Lucky Dog: Owney, U.S. Rail Mail Mascot

Thursday, July 28th    Stories at the Park

10:30am @ Under the shade trees, Walter Reed Community Center, Arlington  Get caught listening with drop-in stories for preschoolers–”Stories in the Park” at the Walter Reed Community Center.  Bring a blanket and your picnic if you like!All ages welcome.  No reservations needed.

 

Thursday, July 28th    Dance Party!

11am @ Barrett Branch Library, Alexandria

“DanceParty” w/scarves, shakers & more!  All programs at Barrett Branch are recommended for kids ages 2 & up

 

Friday, July 29th    Tales from the Deep Dark Woods
7:30pm – 8:30pm @ Long Branch Nature Center Amphitheater, Arlington
The whole family is invited to the Long Branch amphitheater for lots of old-fashioned fun.  Margaret Chatham tells stories from forests in Africa, Sweden, and Japan.  Eclectic teller of ethnic tales, Margaret Chatham is a founding member of Voices in the Glen, the Washington-area storytelling guild. Winner (with her husband) of the 2003 National Storytelling Network Oracle Award, has she got some stories to tell you!!  For information: 703-228-6535. Families. Register children and adults; children must register with an accompanying adult.
Free event!

 

 

Get Out and Stay Out with Kids in DC Metro: July 18th – 22nd

It’s going to be a hot one this week, so here are plenty of activities to keep you cool inside.  Sorry for the delay in getting this posted- baby #2 is due any day, and I am sloooowing down.  Stay cool!

Tuesday, July 19th    Summer Movie Express- Marmaduke & Yogi Bear

10am @ Kingstowne Stadium 16, Alexandria and Ballston Common Stadium 12, Arlington

Want to see recent kids movies for only a dollar this summer?  Head to Kingstowne Stadium 16 or Ballston Common Stadium 12 for Summer Movie Express 2011.  They will offer two G or PG rated movies for only $1 every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am until August 24th.  This week’s movies are Marmaduke & Yogi Bear.  Click here for more info.

http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx?zip=22204

Wednesday, July 20th    Magic Around the Globe

3:30pm @ Duncan Branch Library, Alexandria

The Shazam Magic Company returns with new and amazing magic tricks and other magical wonders with plenty audience participation.

http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us/pdf_docs/sqsystem11.pdf

Thursday, July 21st    Didgeridoo Down Under

2pm @ Mary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church

An Australian themed musical experience, especially fun for school aged kids.  This is a high-energy, Australia-themed show combining music, character building (includes anti-bullying), education, motivation, and entertainment.

http://www.fallschurchva.gov/Content/Government/Departments/Library/default.aspx

Thursday, July 21    Reptiles Alive!

7pm @ Burke Branch, Alexandria

An exciting and educational introduction to all kinds of reptiles from many places. You will meet live animals from Africa, Asia, Australia and North America while you learn snake secrets and laugh at our lizard stories and turtle tales. Featuring a giant python, alligator, tortoise, monitor lizard, and other amazing reptiles.   Recommended ages: 6to 12

http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us/pdf_docs/sqsystem11.pdf

Friday, July 22nd    Mars Day
10am – 3pm @ National Air and Space Museum, Washington, DC

Kids can explore the Mars using 3D glasses, see a meteorite that came from Mars, and find out what geological features Earth has in common with Mars. Finally, kids can learn about upcoming and future exploration of the red planet.

http://www.nasm.si.edu/marsday/

 

This Weekend with Kids in DC Metro: July 9th & 10th

 

 

 

Lots going on this weekend!  What are you planning to get into?

Saturday, July 9th

Children’s and Maternity Clothing Consignment Sale

9:30am – 1:30pm @ Mystique Jewelers in Old Town, Alexandria

Shop for your kids from designer brands.  In addition, Tara Bandes an Old Town photographer is going to be offering mini photo sessions at the event.  They will also have an Alex’s Lemonade Stand set-up with proceeds going to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to help fight childhood cancer.  On the waterfront in Old Town, Alexandria- 211 The Strand (next to Chadwicks Restaurant).  Shop for your kids from designer brands: Baby Gap, Gymboree, Hannah Andersson, Janie and Jack, Lilly Pulitzer, Mini Boden, and more.  Tara Bandes Photography will offer 20 minute sessions for $95 and include the session sitting fee, a private online viewing portfolio for your proofs, 1 5×7 print and 8 wallets.  To reserve your session for the day of the event check out: www.tarabandes.com or call 571.332.2627.  Complimentary parking is available, and dogs are welcome.

http://529kidsconsign.com/

Sahelo-Sahara Day 

10am – 2pm @ National Zoo, Washington, DC

Come discover how antelopes and other animals make their home in the heat of the Sahara desert. This family-friendly event offers educational and fun activities for children, keeper talks and animal demonstrations.  No tickets are required. Featured Creature Days are free and open to the public.

http://nationalzoo.si.edu/ActivitiesAndEvents/Celebrations/AnimalDays/default.cfm

Rocknoceros- Arts in the Parks

10am – 11am @ Mason District Park Amphitheater, Annandale

A fun, free show featuring great kids music.

http://www.rocknoceros.com/shows

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/downloads/11ArtsintheParksWeb.pdf

Beading FUN for ALL

10am – 12pm @ Fairlington Community Center, Arlington

This is a family style beading workshop that is great for parent/caregiver and child to learn the basics of beading through simple techniques.  Make and take necklace and bracelet.  All supplies are included.  Please only register the child.  Fairlington Center.  For ages 7-12. Cost is $31.

http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/parksrecreation/documents/file80214.pdf

Insects

10:30am – 12pm @ Dora Kelley Nature Park, Alexandria

Join volunteer Naturalist and local insect enthusiast Peter Edelman on a hike through Dora Kelley Nature Park to get “up close and personal” with local insect life. Catch and release session featured (nets and equipment provided). In lieu of a program fee, participants may donate to the Ford Nature Center via “The Living Landscape Fund”. Call the Naturalist staff at 703-746-5559 for more information.  This is a free event.  Ages 12 & up.

http://alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/services/NatureClasses.pdf

Cherrydale Library 50th Anniversary

11am @ Cherrydale Library, Arlington

There will be a short ceremony at 11am., followed by a celebration including cake donated by Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe, the greatest hits and notable books of 1961, a giant birthday card, and a display of vintage photos of the Cherrydale Library.  There will also have balloons, face painting and an exhibit of art created by Taylor School students.  At 2pm, elementary school students can attend Kofi Dennis Djembe Storytelling, part of the summer Get Caught Reading performance series.  Free tickets for this performance will be available on first come, first serve basis, beginning Friday, July 8.

http://arlingtonvalib.blogspot.com/2011/06/cherrydale-branchcjerr-celebrates-50.html

Nationals Baseball Family Day

11:30am – 2pm @ American Art Museum, Portrait Gallery, Washington, DC

Take me out to the museum! The American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery are pleased to welcome all to our fifth annual Baseball Family Day with the Washington Nationals Baseball Club. Come take your picture with ball players from noon to 1pm and enjoy lots of fun activities, crafts, and musical performances.  This is a free event.

http://npg.si.edu/event/currentevents.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D94458932

The Foo Fah Show 

12pm @ Universalist National Memorial Church, Washington, DC

Storyteller Marc Spiegel (www.marcspiegel.com) leads the audience through rhythmic, rhyming stories from his magical land of Foo Fah, assigning sound effects and words to various sections of the audience so that the ultimate pace of the story is created by the group.  Marc will lead you into a time before video games and virtual reality, when “interactive” meant being in the same room and speaking face to face, when people entertained each other with stories and rhymes, and the whole community joined in to make a joyful noise.  You will meet wacky, wild, and wonderful characters like Gorgon Corpuscle, who has broken out of the confines of Marc Speigel’s imagination and arrived in our world via his Urban Dictionary definition of “foo fah.”  The show is fun, interactive, and entertaining.  It is also great fun for “grown-ups” with or without the kids.

http://www.foofahshow.com

Venomous Snakes & Poisonous Plants

1pm @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Learn what you need to watch out for in the fields and forests of Fairfax County. See a live copperhead snake, learn to identify poison ivy and a black widow spider. Find out what is easily confused with our noxious neighbors.

http://parktakes.fairfaxcounty.gov/rev1_coursedetail.asp?category2=STEW%2DN&subject=&facility2=M308&day=9999&Submit2=Search&offset=0&LOC=M308&TRM=11SU&CDE=3082887301

Alexandria Birthday Celebration

4pm – 10pm @ Oronoco Bay Park, Alexandria

The City of Alexandria will celebrate its 262nd birthday at Oronoco Bay Park. The celebration includes fun for the entire family, including children’s activities, community exhibits, a music performances, and birthday cake. The highlight of the event is a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra. Fireworks close out the celebration at dusk.  Oronoco Bay Park has lawn seating, so bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food, such as ice cream, hot dogs, hamburgers, shaved ice and kettle corn will be available for purchase, but you are welcome to pack a picnic supper.

http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=751

Goodnight Walk: Abounding Bats

8pm @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Search the skies during our night time stroll for bats. Enjoy a story and fun facts about these curious, misunderstood creatures. Learn how to encourage these natural mosquito-zappers to visit your backyard.

http://parktakes.fairfaxcounty.gov/rev1_coursedetail.asp?category2=STEW%2DN&subject=&facility2=M308&day=9999&Submit2=Search&offset=0&LOC=M308&TRM=11SU&CDE=3083868201

Sunday, July 10th

Venomous Snakes & Poisonous Plants

1pm @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Learn what you need to watch out for in the fields and forests of Fairfax County. See a live copperhead snake, learn to identify poison ivy and a black widow spider. Find out what is easily confused with our noxious neighbors.

http://parktakes.fairfaxcounty.gov/rev1_coursedetail.asp?category2=STEW%2DN&subject=&facility2=M308&day=9999&Submit2=Search&offset=0&LOC=M308&TRM=11SU&CDE=3082887301

Meet me on a Sunday at Potomac Overlook

1:30pm and 3:30pm @ Potomac OverlookRegional Park, Arlington

Almost everyone needs more time in the great outdoors – time to take a walk, enjoy each others’ company, or to just sit and do nothing! So, come make a “natural connection” at Potomac Overlook Regional Park. Every Sunday afternoon the park provides refreshments, games and hands-on nature exhibits, and a fun place to meet and enjoy the outdoors. There’s always something for families, groups, scouts, friends, couples, seniors . . . anyone!

http://www.arlingtonva.us/calendar/#EventDetails_12818

Mongol Naadam’

2pm – 5pm @ Barcroft Park, Arlington

Annual DC-Arlington Mongolian Community summer “Naadam” – a sports and music celebration featuring Mongolian wrestling competition, children’s foot races, traditional songs and dances, and a basketball competition.  This is a free event!

http://www.friendsofmongolia.org/updates/juneandjuly2011-eventsinthedcarea#TOC-July-10-2011:-Mongol-Naadam-in-Arli 

Old Town Waterfront Fun Days!

2pm – 5pm @ Alexandria City Marina, Alexandria

Many local organizations will provide family fun activities including the Torpedo Factory Artists with children’s crafts, the Alexandria Archaeology showcasing unique artifacts, the Alexandria Seaport Foundation with children’s miniature boat building and the Alexandria Art League hosting some fantastic artists. Pamela Cressey, the City’s Director of Archaeology, will host this week’s Waterfront Walk beginning at 3pm in front of the Waterfront Gazebo, City Marina. Don’t miss out on this special day of art, history and family fun activities!  This is a free event- call (703) 684-0580 for more info. Located at Alexandria City Marina, behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

http://visitalexandriava.com/attractions-activites/calendar-of-events/index.cfm?show=eventDetail&eventID=3264&rtnURl=

The 3rd Annual Firefly Festival
7:30pm – 9:30pm @ Fort C.F. Smith Park, Arlington
Celebrate summer’s natural night lights with us at Fort C.F. Smith.  Events include; bug hunts, games, crafts, walks, and talks about fireflies. Bring your picnic blanket and dinner to enjoy and wait for the sun to go down and the lights to come out.  Cancelled if Raining. For information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Fort C.F. Smith Park.  There is a $5 fee per person, $20 max per family, payable at the festival.  Call 703-228-6535 to register.

http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/nature/TheSnag.aspx

 

Shirlington Jazz Festival

The Shirlington Jazz Festival is back for another year!  It starts July 7th and runs every Thursday through August 25th from 6:30 – 8:30pm.  Enjoy live music and yummy food with your family.

Festival Lineup:
July 7th – The Oscillators
July 14th – Donato Soviero and Friends
July 21st – Dan Haas with Unified Jazz
July 28th – JMM
August 4th – Mistruada
August 11th – The Lovejoy Group
August 18th – Felicia Carter & Amy Shook
August 25th – Kevin Pace Trio

There is also wine tasting- for $5, you can taste 4 wines (2 whites, 2 reds). Wine tasting proceeds benefit the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC).

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=218459578177954

 

Get Out and Stay Out in DC Metro with Kids: July 5th – 8th

 

 

Tuesday, July 5th    Family Gaming

4pm @ Westover Library, Arlington

Stop in the Westover Meeting Room to play board games, card games and Wii with your family. All ages welcome. No registration required.

http://library.arlingtonva.us/Departments/Libraries/LibrariesMain.aspx

 

Wednesday, July 6th    Wednesday Lunchtime Concert Series

11:45am – 1:30pm @ CentralSpace, Arlington

Every Wednesday until August 31st, local musicians will perform a variety of music genres including jazz, blues, funk, pop, folk and more.  This Wednesday is the Levi Stephens Duo.

http://www.rosslynva.org/play/calendar/event/wednesday-lunchtime-concert-series5

 

Wednesday, July 6th    The Princess and the Frog

4pm @ Westover Library, Arlington

Get Caught Reading 2011 presents the family friendly tale of Tiana, who in a Jazz Age-era New Orleans setting, kisses a frog prince who would rather be human again. A Disney film, rated G, 97 minutes.  No tickets or reservations required.

http://library.arlingtonva.us/Departments/Libraries/LibrariesMain.aspx

 

Thursday, July 7th    Drop-In Stories in the Park

10:30am @ Walter Reed Community Center (under the shade trees), Arlington

Join the special drop-in storytimes on Thursdays from July 7 to August 11 outside under the shade trees at the Walter Reed Community Center.  Bring a blanket and picnic (if you like). Call 703-228-5710 for more information.

http://library.arlingtonva.us/Departments/Libraries/LibrariesMain.aspx

 

Friday, July 8th    Animals Underground

10am & 2pm @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Dig down deep and investigate who lives in the dark, damp world under the forest floor as we learn about moles, earthworms, termites and the many other creatures of the soil.  For more information call the park at 703-941-1065.

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks/public.htm

 

Friday, July 8th    Turtle-Time Campfire

7pm – 8:15pm @ Gulf Branch Nature Center, Arlington

The whole family is invited to Gulf Branch fire ring for lots of old-fashioned fun. This program will be filled with entertaining activities, to include stories, special animal guests, games, songs and of course, treats like s’mores.  There is a $5 fee per person due at registration- $20 max per family. Register at https://registration.arlingtonva.us.  Program #: 642851-H  For more info, call 703-228-3403.

http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/nature/TheSnag.aspx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get Out and Stay Out with Kids in DC Metro: June 27th – July 1st

 

Monday, June 27th    Kids Read to Dogs

5:30pm – 6:30pm @ Central Library, Youth Services “Rabbit Hole” Room, Arlington

Children ages 6-12 are invited to read to therapy dogs. Each “Paws to Read” child is given a 15-minute session where they will be paired with a canine listener. Volunteers (both owners and dogs) are part of PAL (People. Animals. Love.), an animal therapy organization. All participating dogs are trained and certified. Studies have shown that reading to a dog (or other non-judgmental audience) can help improve a child’s reading level and increase their enjoyment of reading. Please register for a slot by calling (703) 228-5946.

http://arlingtonvalib.blogspot.com/2011/03/paws-to-read.html

 

Tuesday, June 28th    Summer Movie Express- Astro Boy & Megamind

10am @ Kingstowne Stadium 16, Alexandria and Ballston Common Stadium 12, Arlington

Want to see recent kids movies for only a dollar this summer?  Head to Kingstowne Stadium 16 or Ballston Common Stadium 12 for Summer Movie Express 2011.  They will offer two G or PG rated movies for only $1 every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am from June 28th – August 24th.  This week’s movies are Astro Boy and Megamind.

http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx?zip=22204

 

Wednesday, June 29th    A Tale of Tails

4pm – 4:45pm @ Westover Library, Arlington

7pm- 7:45pm @ Columbia Pike Library, Arlington

Long Branch once again takes its show on the road for the Arlington County Libraries’ Summer Reading Quest. This year’s theme is “One World, Many Stories”.  They will concentrate on the many tales around the world about animal’s tails.  Hear some of these stories and even get a chance to meet some animals with some interesting tails to be told about.  For families with children ages 4 and up.   This event is free.  Call Westover Library (703-228-5260) or Columbia Pike (703-228-5710) to register.

http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/nature/TheSnag.aspx

 

Thursday, June 30th    Rock at the Row

6pm – 8pm @ Pentagon Row, Arlington

Head to Pentagon Row in Arlington for a family friendly Rock at the Row Summer Concert Series.  This Thursday is Dan Haas a Lounge Pop band.  Go to this post for more info.

http://www.pentagonrow.com/events/

 

Friday, July 1st    City Dance and Milkshake

10am @ Wolf Trap, Vienna, VA

Wolf Trap Foundation and the National Park Service are presenting Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods performances from late June through early August.  This week is City Dance and Milkshake!  City Dance is at 10am, and the mystical world of the Amazon will unfold before your eyes through Brazilian music and modern dance as dolphins, monkeys, and jaguars come to life around the Dreaming Tree.  Dance to the music with Milkshake at 11am.  Sing along with Grammy-nominated songs in the style of the White Stripes, the Beatles, and more.  Tickets for both performances are only $8.

http://www.wolftrap.org/Education/Childrens_Theatre-in-the-Woods.aspx

 

 

 

This Weekend with Kids in DC Metro: June 4th & 5th

Cooler weather is forecasted for this weekend- looks to be in the mid-80s.  Now if only Sunday’s rain could slip to Sunday night….

Saturday, June 4th

Backyard Fun Fest

10am – 2pm @ Franconia UMC, Alexandria

Come for some old-fashioned fun for a “back yard funfest” to benefit Koinonia, the community mission which is located on the grounds of Franconia UMC.  There will be games & prizes, a moon bounce, crafts, food, live music, and more!

http://franconiaumc.org/koinoniafunfest.html

Oh, What a Beautiful Day: Sing Books with Emily

11am @ Tuckahoe Elementary School, Arlington

This cabaret show is for families, created for children and adults to enjoy together.  It is loaded with funny, delightful and inspiring songs, encompassing music from Broadway to pop, written by songwriters like Rodgers and Hammerstein, Billy Joel, and Steve Martin!  All the songs come from the Singable Picture Book catalogue.  Tickets for the performance at Tuckahoe will be $5 per person or “pay what you can” per family.

http://singbookswithemily.wordpress.com/sing-books-with-emily-the-cabaret/

Saint Clement Family Fun Fair 

11am – 3pm @ Church of Saint Clement, Alexandria

This Fun Fair is open to the public and will include activities like a cake walk, moon bounce, free cartoon shows spin art, carnival games, and a wine wall.  Carnival snacks and lunch will also be available.

http://saintclement.org/Visitors/Fair.html

Under the Sea Puppet Show.

11am – 3pm @ Lakeshore Learning Store, Alexandria

Kids will be able to create everything from the puppets to the stage, and then put on an actual performance.

http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/general_content/store_locations/storeCrafts.jsp

Armenian Festival

12pm – 5pm @ Market Square in front of Alexandria City Hall, Alexandria
The free festival will feature entertainment, food, and displays showcasing and celebrating Armenian culture. Beef, lamb and pork kabobs, lahmajun (a Middle Eastern style gourmet pizza), dolma (stuffed vegetable dishes), pitas, baklava, and other food and beverages will be available for purchase.

http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=752

http://www.armenianfestivals.com/

Carlin Hall Preschool Fun Fair 

12pm – 3pm @ Carlin Hall, Arlington

Entry to the fair is free, and you can purchase tickets to participate in the games and events.  There will be games, a bake sale, a cake walk, moonbounce, and prizes.  There will also be a silent auction- items include theater tickets, ballet lessons, dinner at a local fire station, crafts & jewelry, entertainment tickets, sports packages, restaurant gift cards, and much more.  There will also be gently used toys, puzzles, and games for sale.

http://www.carlinhall.org/FunFair.aspx

Discover the Marsh

2pm – 3:30pm @ Dora Kelley Nature Park, Alexandria

Journey to the freshwater marsh in Dora Kelley Nature Park and learn about its many inhabitants, big and small. Participate in a critter catch and release. Also, create a cool field guide to take home.  For ages 6-12.

http://alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/services/NatureClasses.pdf

Family Fun: Solstice Celebration 

2pm @ Green Springs Gardens Park, Alexandria

Family-friendly workshop to celebrate the coming summer solstice. Learn how to build a sundial of your own and how to tell time by the shadows.  For ages 5 and older.

Click here for more info.

Hidden Oaks’ Treasures Hunt

2pm @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Prepare for an adventure as kids follow their treasure map to collect clues finding treasures along 1/2 miles of woodland and stream trails.  Some of the treasures include meeting live woodland creatures, others are fun facts about native plants and rocks and some include feats of daring.  For more information call the park at 703-941-1065.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, June 5th

9th Annual Green Home and Garden Tour 

1pm – 5pm @ Arlington

You will be able to tour local green homes and environmentally-friendly gardens.  The tour will include houses, a condo, and a nature center.  It will highlight green renovations, composting, rain barrels, wildlife habitats, rain gardens and more.  Check out the online map for more info.

http://arlingtonenvironment.org/gardentour.htm

Family Tour Day

1pm – 4pm @ Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Alexandria
Families are invited to tour the historic tavern as Junior Docents (volunteers from grades 3 – 6), share their enthusiasm for history.  Let your kids be inspired by their peers as they tour the tavern where George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and others made history! Call 703-746-4242 for more info.  No reservations are necessary.

http://visitalexandriava.com/attractions-activites/calendar-of-events/index.cfm?show=eventDetail&eventID=2898&rtnURl=showday%3D1%26cdate%3D06%2D05%2D2011

Rocknoceros Performance

4pm @ Agudas Achim Preschool, Alexandria

Bring your family to sing and dance with this fun local musical trio.
Tickets- $12 at the door (under 12 months free).  For more information please contact preschoolevents@gmail.com

http://www.agudasachim-va.org/

Saturday, June 4th & Sunday, June 5th

Bear Awareness Days
10am – 2pm @ National Zoo, Washington, DC

Bear Awareness Days will be two days of fun, family programming all about bears! Join us for special keeper talks and animal demos, learn about the bears of the world, and find out how to stay safe around local bears. Kids can help bear-proof a campsite, share what they love about bears, and even bring their own teddy bear in for a check-up.

http://nationalzoo.si.edu/ActivitiesAndEvents/Celebrations/AnimalDays/BearAwareness.cfm

Jack and the Bean-Stalk

Saturday at 12pm & 6pm, Sunday at 12pm @ 1st Stage Theater, Tysons Corner, McLean

Come enjoy a brand-new adaptation of the classic fairy tale, “Jack and the Bean-Stalk.”  This play is a fun-for-the-whole-family, funny show.  Aimed at younger audiences, but with lots of laughs built in for adults, it’s a perfect fit for families who want to share the joy of live-performance theater.

On June 4th and June 18th are the only two evening performance.  These Family Night Out Performances are scheduled especially for families looking for an evening activity that the whole family can enjoy.  All tickets are discounted $3 off when the word POSTCARD or DISCOUNT is mentioned at the box office.

http://www.1ststagetysons.org/jack

 

Get Out and Stay Out with Kids in DC Metro: April 11th – 15th

It is warming up, so I have included some fun outdoor activities!  Hope that you have a great week.

Monday, April 11th    Visit Beverley Park (AKA the Pit)

Anytime @ Beverley Park, 620 North Overlook Dr, Alexandria

Monday is going to be beautiful, so head to the park!  A local favorite in Alexandria, “The Pit” is a great place to go with all ages of kids.  There is an updated playground equipment with swings, slides, a big sand pit, a picnic shelter, and leftover playground toys (bikes, scooters, ride-on toys, etc).  There is also a hard court play area, and a wooded nature area.  There is a lot of room to run and play!  It is a huge park.  According to Alexandria’s government site, Beverley Park was once used as a staging area and gravel pit when the homes in the Beverly Hills neighborhood were being built. After the new home construction was completed, the site was cleaned up and a playground was installed.

http://alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=12284#Beverley

 

Monday, April 11th    Little Acorns

11am @ Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale

Come to an interactive class for preschoolers, where kids learn about a weekly topic through finger plays, stories, activities and, weather permitting, and outdoor exploration.

Click here for more info.

 

 

Tuesday, April 12th    Spectacular Snakes

10:30am @ Gulf Branch Nature Center, Arlington

Preschoolers can learn about snakes in a fun interactive program that will include stories, a craft, and a short hike.  For ages 3 – 5 years.  Registration is required.

http://www.arlingtonva.us/calendar/#EventDetails_12710

 

Wednesday, April 13th    Rocknoceros

10:30am @ Jammin’ Java, Vienna, VA

If you haven’t seen Rocknoceros yet, you should definitely get to one of their shows.  Rochnoceros is a three-man children’s show that features original children’s songs as well as other well known songs.  The show caters to children from ages 1 – 9, but will entertain all ages.  The cost is $5 for everyone a year and older.

http://www.jamminjava.com/rocknoceros.html

 

Thursday, April 14th    Visit Kidwell Farm

9am – 5pm @ Frying Pan Farm Park , Herndon, VA

Come join us as we explore the farm!  There are cows, sheep, goats and pigs as well as a chickens, bunnies, peacocks, horses and many farm buildings to check out.  There is a lot of room for kids to run/walk around and check out the farm, and a fun playground to see as well.  There is also a country store and equestrian facilities.  This is a great time of year to go- there are so many baby animals to see!  Check out this Our Kids review for more info!

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/

 

Friday, April 15th    See the Animals at Reston Zoo

9am – 5pm @ Reston Zoo, Vienna, VA

Reston Zoo, which has been closed for the winter, is open again!  This is a great hands on zoo for children of all ages.  The zoo is a thirty-acre park right in the middle of Vienna.  There are exhibits of monkeys, kangaroos, alligator, tortoises, servals, a wide variety of birds.  There is a free-Flight Aviary and a Reptile House.  There is also a Petting Barn, where you can pet and feed (baby bottles and food are available for purchase) sheep, lambs, goats, llamas, rabbits, and pot-belly pigs.  In addition to these animals, you can take a Zoofari wagon rides (included in admission fee) to see zebras, antelope, bison, crazy ostrich, and lots more.  Cost is $12 for adults, and $9 for kids ages 2–12.  Kids under 2 are free.

http://www.restonzoo.com/