See the Notre Dame Marching Band on Friday, November 11

Notre Dame is traveling to Maryland to take on the Terps on Saturday, November 12, at FedEx Field. Their redound marching band, Band of the Fighting Irish, is making the trek as well and they'll be practicing at Bishop McNamara High School's Tyoka Jackson Field on Friday, November 11th from 10:15 AM to 11:45 AM. This is an open, full dress rehearsal and it is free and open to the public!

This is a great opportunity for Notre Dame fans, musicians or burgeoning musicians to see one of the best college marching bands in the nation* perform up close and personal!

Bishop McNamara High School
6800 Marlboro Pike
Forestville, MD 20747


*Not to be confused with the best college marching bands in the nation, OSU's The Best Damn Band In The Land and Penn State's The Blue Band. (Ugh. I wrote this prior to the scandal coming to light and can't even stomach promoting the school's band right now.)

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Jump Off! this weekend

Regular readers of this blog won't be surprised to know that my two absolute most favorite places for children in Prince George's County are Watkins Park and the National Children's Museum Launch Zone.


So can you imagine my excitement that the Launch Zone is hosting an event at Watkins Park?! It doesn't get any better than that, my friends!

Here is the scoop!

                  

The National Children's Museum will present the fourth annual Jump Off! at Watkins Regional Park on October 22, from noon until 4pm. This event is designed to inspire children to be physically active while having fun.

The afternoon will feature free, outdoor exhibition performances by nationally renowned Double Dutch jump rope teams along with numerous family friendly activities. Highlights include:

·         Stellar performances and workshops by Jump Off! veterans the Greenbelt S.I.T.Y. (Sensational, Inspiring, Talented, Youthful) Stars, Kangaroo Kids, and Youth Sports Jump Rope FX;
·         Special guest appearances by The Washington Mystics representatives, with an inflatable basketball challenge, and the WPGC 95.5 street team (1-2 p.m.) who will provide music and live entertainment, as well as giveaways and promos;
·         Frisbee decorating (while supplies last) and parachute play with NCM staff.

In addition, the Museum is welcoming six community exhibitors to Jump Off! Community exhibitors include:

• The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, bringing coloring books and handouts;
• RJ Smiles Inc., providing arts and crafts activities;
• Echoes of Nature, with animal artifacts and pelts, and a finger puppet craft;
• Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, giving away pens, pencils, and bookmarks;
• X-Treme Teens, in their Tahoe truck with handouts and interactive fun;
• M.O.M.I.E.’s TLC, hosting hands-on activities.

This year, Jump Off! turns into a festival with food vendors, hula-hooping, face painting, and all-day music, in addition to the community exhibitors and performances on the main stage. Also, don’t miss out on Watkins Regional Park’s Fall into Fun event from 1 to 4 p.m! Take a train ride around the park as you enjoy the fall foliage, or get into the seasonal spirit with a hayride and a trip to the Nature Center for fall-themed arts and crafts. 

Where:                
Watkins Regional Park
301 Watkins Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD


Details:

Free parking is available at Watkins Regional Park. All Jump Off! events are free of charge. There is a $5 admission fee for the Watkins Regional Park Fall into Fun event. For additional information or for a schedule of upcoming NCM programs, visit www.ncm.museum.

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Free Admission to Museums on Saturday!

This Saturday, September 24, is the annual Smithsonian magazine museum day! Of course we all know that the Smithsonian museums are free every day of the year, but on this particular day, many other museums are also offering free admission. You simply have to request a free ticket (limit 2 per household) here and then use that ticket on Saturday.

Here are several of the wonderful local museums that are participating but you can find the entire list here.

Prince George's County: 

College Park Aviation Museum
Montpelier Mansion
Radio & Television Museum 

Riversdale House Museum

Baltimore: 

American Visionary Art Museum

B&O Railroad Museum 

Baltimore Museum of Art 

Baltimore Museum of Industry 

Baltimore Streetcar Museum

Solomons: 

Calvert Marine Museum

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Port Towns Day, Saturday, September 17

It's the 15th Annual Port Towns Day this Saturday, September 17, from noon until 8pm at Bladensburg Waterfront Park!

We love the Bladensburg Waterfront Park and Port Towns Day is always a lot of fun. This year there are TONS of great activities throughout the day.

There will be great music, Anacostia boat rides very 30 minutes, crafts, games, face painting and even a free mobile roller skate van -- with youth and adult sizes!

Find all the details here.


 
Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

The Big Build on Saturday, September 17

A festival attendee learns how to lay brick.

Photo by Museum staff.

We love the free family events at the National Building Museum! Usually they are totally packed, but they are so full of awesomeness that it is definitely worth it.

The Big Build: A Hands-on Family Festival of Tools, Trucks and Building Arts sounds amazing!

It will take place THIS Saturday, September 17 from 10am until 4:30pm at the National Building Museum.



 Here are all the details:

• Do it!
  Activities for visitors of all ages: drywall finishing, bricklaying, roof thatching, woodworking, surveying, nail driving, and more.
• Kids build!
  Young architects and builders let their imaginations soar as they design and construct miniature houses of sticks.
• Create!
  Budding artists and designers can try gilding and stone carving, or create their own mosaics to take home.
• Learn!
  Talk with plumbers, roofers, architects, landscape designers, conservationists, and other experts in many fields to learn about both traditional and new building techniques and materials.
• Play!
  Bob the Builder™ will be live and on stage at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm.  The youngest builders and construction workers explore the tools of the trade as they sing and dance their way through building projects with Bob the Builder. 
• Bring your cameras!
  Shake hands and take pictures with Bob the Builder at special meet and greet sessions at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm.
• Much, much more!

FREE. $5 donation suggested. Most appropriate for ages 4–12. Drop-In. Individual registration is not required. Formerly called the Festival of the Building Arts.



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Creating a Family Emergency Plan

This isn't a cheery post about family activities this weekend, rather it's a reminder that we all need to have good, solid family emergency plans in place. I'm writing about it over at The DC Moms. Please go check it out for great ideas and tips.


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Make a kite for the windy days ahead!

So in case you haven't heard, we're expecting a few gusts of wind this weekend.

Oh, you've heard? Yeah, her name is Irene.

I'm obviously not recommending you take your kid on a kite flying adventure during the middle of a hurricane, but maybe you can take advantage of some lingering wind next week to take your new kite out for a spin.

Oh, you don't have a new kite? Well, then, my friend, head on over to the College Park Aviation Museum on Saturday at 1pm to build and decorate your own kite!

The workshop is $8 per participant but that also includes museum admission.

You do need to pre-register so call them today: 301-864-6029.

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Ahhhh...SHARKS!

Whale shark compared to the size of an average human. Image from Wikipedia

One of Lucas's favorite beach activities is hunting for shark teeth. And while I'm sad to say that due to an extremely tight budget we aren't going to the beach this year, he can still hunt for shark teeth thanks to the National Children's Museum Launch Zone!

Monday, August 8, kicks off their "Ahhh...SHARKS!" program where they will celebrate all things shark! Kids can hunt for shark teeth on a "beach," see and touch real shark jaws and other artifacts and make a craft.

The FREE event (no registration required!) takes place August 8, 9 and 10 from 11am-4pm and Saturday, August 13, from 11am-6pm.

National Children's Museum Launch Zone
112 Waterfront St.
National Harbor, MD 20745

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Summer Outdoor Movies at the College Park Aviation Museum

The College Park Aviation Museum is hosting free (with museum admission) summer outdoor movies this year. How fun!

They kick-off this Friday, July 29 at 9pm with Despicable Me. The museum doors re-open at 7pm when there will be fun, hands-on activities, sno cones and popcorn. Then, the movie begins promptly at 9pm (when, hopefully, it will be a tad bit cooler!).

The series continues on August 19 with How to Train Your Dragon.

Museum admission is (as usual) $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for kids and free for those under 2.

College Park Aviation Museum
1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive
College Park 20740


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Dive-In Movie @ Ellen Linson Swimming Pool

Cool off on a hot summer night and watch a movie at the same time! How fun!

This Saturday, July 30 from 8-11pm you and your family can watch "Life's a Picnic with Yogi Bear!" while splashing or floating in the Ellen Linson Pool!

Here are the details:

Ellen Linson Swimming Pool
5211 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park

$4 for ages 17 and under, $5 ages 18 and up


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Get Up & Go at the National Children's Museum

It seems like my major focus of these dog days of summer is wearing my boys out! They are both high energy and if I don't keep them active then they'll keep themselves active by (literally!) jumping on the furniture and up the walls!

I can't wait to take them to Get Up & Go at the National Children's Museum Launch Zone. This free event (and no registration required--woohoo!) will feature all kinds of activities to keep your kids moving--from spoon and "egg" (curious to find out why they have that in quotes!) relays to dancing, Simon Says and jumping jack contests throughout the day. Really, is there anything cuter than a group of kids doing jumping jacks?

There will also be plenty of tips on healthy living.

Get Up & Go will take place July 25, 27 and 27, and August 1, 3 and 5 from 11am-4pm and on July 30 and August 6 from 11am-6pm.

National Children's Museum
112 Waterfront St.
National Harbor, MD 20745



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Operation Firefly

Some of my fondest childhood memories include catching fireflies in the evenings.  Now that Lucas's summer bed time is a little later, observing and catching fireflies has become an almost-nightly ritual for him, too. Although my little lover-of-creatues-great-and-small was horrified to learn that when I was a little girl, I often pulled off the glowing part to make myself a diamond ring!

I imagine that the scientists behind Operation Firefly would be horrified as well. They are studying an important question: Are fireflies disappearing?

And they need your kids to become citizen scientists to help find the answer!

Head over to the site to learn more then register and start observing. And for my future grandkids' sake...I really hope the answer is NO!

Yeah, and it's probably a good idea, um, not to mention the, er, "diamond" ring idea to your kids. And let's not discuss the idea of "diamond" earrings either!


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Kids Bowl Free All Summer!

AMF Bowling Centers across the country are offering free bowling for kids all summer long! Sounds like a great way to enjoy a too-steamy-to-go-outside or rainy summer day! I signed up and am getting my coupons via e-mail every Sunday!

Click here to find your closest AMF bowling center and register your kids. You'll receive your first coupons via e-mail within 24 hours and additional weekly coupons every Sunday.

Lots of Prince George's County locations are participating, including: Hyattsville, College Park, Temple Hills and Laurel.



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Backyard Campout at the National Children's Museum

Photo via REI

Lucas and Abel, along with a friend, enjoyed their first back-yard campout last week and loved it. I expect lots more camping (both of the backyard and actual forest variety!) in our future.

I can't wait to take Lucas and Nathaniel to the National Children's Museum Launch Zone's latest hands-on experience for kids: Backyard Campout! They've teamed up with REI to help kids learn all about camping--from checking out camping equipment, crawling into and through tents to exploring deer and bear tracks thanks to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

This FREE event takes place July 11, 13, 15, 18, 20 and 22 from 11am-4pm and on July 16 and 23 from 11am-6pm.

No registration is necessary.

Are you going on your own outdoor adventure? Head over to REI and download a free Kids' Adventure Journal for some sneaky learning!


National Chlidren's Museum Launch Zone
112 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745
Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens - Another great reason to visit!

Thanks to Our-Kids and Hiking Along for giving us another great reason to visit the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens this summer: The River Trail!

Outside of the National Arboretum, the Aquatic Gardens are definitely the least-known gem of Northeast DC! I highly recommend a visit!

Click here to get all the details on the River Trail, which Hiking Along says is perfect for toddlers, kids and strollers (with larger wheels!).


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Free Concerts at Strathmore

Longtime readers know that I love, love, love the plethora of free outdoor summer concerts in the DC-area. Last summer (or was it the year before?) I found a free outdoor concert for my readers nearly every. single. night. all. summer. long.

Can I do it again this year? So far, you know about Sunday night concerts and Thursday night concerts. Now I'm excited to tell you about free Wednesday night concerts!

Yes, these are outside of Prince George's County, but not too far, and at such a lovely venue it will be worth the beltway. (Bonus if you already work in MoCo, head over straight from work and completely miss rush hour traffic to get home!)

It's the Strathmore Free Summer Outdoor Concert Series! And it takes place every Wednesday evening through August 24.

Concerts start at 7pm and take place in front of the Gudelsky Concert Gazebo, in front of the mansion (bring your blankets and lawn chairs!). But here's the totally cool part--roving street performers and special (surprise!) guests will be there starting at 5:30pm to entertain you! Here's what the Strathmore folks say, "Jesters Nicolo Whimsey and Michael Rosman will delight visitors with plate spinning, uncicles, juggling and accordion, while Elena Day, Sabrina Mandell and Mark Jaster engage audience with their mimery and interactive merriment. Mischevious shrubbery from Ambush Theater will sneak, snoop and surprise unsuspecting audience members at the free outdoor concerts."

How fun is that? Even better, they'll have very, very yummy-sounding food and drink (regular 'ole American burgers, etc. plus international fare inspired by the performers!) plus soda, water, beer and wine (date night anyone?!) for sale.

So, here's my recommendation: leave early, arrive by 5:30pm and purchase dinner (or pre-pack it yourself!) and beat the traffic (well, try to anyway!) and crowds to enjoy the pre-show and concert. Lovely!

You can find more info and details at http://www.strathmore.org/

Here's the remaining schedule:

Wednesday, July 6, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

CHOPTEETH AFROFUNK BIG BAND
This 14-piece orchestra based in D.C. combines West African music styles with American pop beats - hear modern jazz, Yoruba tribal music and Afrobeat all in one movement.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

ARMAND NTEP
A native of Cameroon, Armand Ntep adds African beats and traditional Lihongo dance from his native country to jazz, salsa and hip-hop for an eclectic performance.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

ANDES MANTA
Four brothers comprise Andes Manta: Fernando, Luis, Bolivar and Jorge Lopez. These natives of Ecuador perform true South American music, drawing on more than 35 instruments and centuries of tradition.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

OLI BROWN BAND
Nineteen year old guitar phenom Oli Brown, the 2010 British Blues Awards Male Vocalist of the Year and Young Artist of the Year, “brings a freshness and excitement to every performance and is at the forefront of the UK's New Blues movement" (Planet Rock Radio).

Wednesday, August 3, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

EDWIN ORTIZ AND ORQUESTA LA ROMANA
After 20 years experience in the D.C. salsa scene, Edwin Ortiz and his Orquesta La Romana know how to get a crowd dancing to an addictive beat. The salsa dura offers hard-charging percussive rhythms and vibrant musical energy.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

RED BARAAT
Baraat is Hindi for a marriage procession and the joyous dancing and singing that ensues. Hear the infectious North Indian rhythm Bhangra meet the sound of a funky brass band, complete with a dhol, drumset, percussion, sousaphone and horns in a tantalizing mix of fresh originals and Bollywood favorites.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011
7 p.m., Gudelsky Concert Gazebo

UKEFEST 2011: Put Up Your Ukes
Strathmore has a passion for the uke - and has made the UkeFest an annual occasion. Grammy winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer highlight the festival, bringing with them a merry assortment of uke soloists and uke bands including Gerald Ross, Victoria Vox and the Sweater Set, plus The Riders, The Piney Branch Kids Ukulele Ensemble and the Washington Ukulele Orchestra.


Disclosure: The Strathmore provided my family with free tickets to two Backyard Children's Theater performances and sent along info about the free summer concerts. But, I was under no obligation to write about them. I just really love FREE summer concerts!!

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Dive-In Movie at the Glenn Dale Splash Park

Cool off on a hot summer evening by relaxing in the Glenn Dale Splash Park and watching "Rango" on a big screen!

It's a Dive-In Movie!

Friday, July 8, at 7pm
Glenn Dale Splash Park
11901 Glenn Dale Blvd.
Glenn Dale, MD

$5 per adult, $4 per child


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Happy Independence Day!

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

$1 Movies at Regal Cinemas

Select Regal Cinemas are offering $1 G and PG films on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10am this summer. The best part of these shows (other than only costing $1!) is that the theater is full of kids so you don't have to worry if yours is a little noisy.

The only participating theatre in Prince George's County this summer is Bowie Stadium 14, 15200 Major Landsdowne Blvd., Bowie, MD.

Click here for the full list of patricipating theatres.

Here's the schedule at Bowie:

7/5 & 7/6
BARNYARD

CHRONICLES OF NARNIA

7/12 &7/13

MARMADUKE

YOGI BEAR

7/19 & 7/20

RAMONA & BEEZUS

SHREK FOREVER AFTER

 

7/26 & 7/27

ALPHA AND OMEGA

KARATE KID

 

8/2 & 8/3

NANNY MCPHEE RETURNS

TALE OF DESPEREAUX

 

8/9 & 8/10

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID

OPEN SEASON 3

 

8/16 & 8/17

CLOUDY W/ MEATBALLS

PIRATES WHO DON'T DO ANYTHING

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Backyard Theater for Children at Strathmore

Last Summer, courtesy of Strathmore, we attended the very last Backyard Theater for Children performance of the season. It was wonderful! Our only regret is that we didn't discover this gem of a series until it was over.

That's why I'm thrilled to know that it's back again this year!

And better than ever, in my opinion, as this year the series has an international focus. Throughout July you and your family can travel around the world without leaving the backyard of the Strathmore! Abel and I think it is so important to expose our kids to as much culture as possible and we love to do it like this, in ways that they'll really enjoy.

The venue (a large tent over grass) and low ticket price (only $8! and free for 2 and under) make for a casual morning. I can guarantee your rambunctious toddler, preschooler or elementary-aged child won't be the only one clapping or dancing or cheering (or all of the above!) throughout the show. In fact, for the first performance, Sin Miedo, you're even encouraged to bring your own maracas. But I must say that after listening to their YouTube clip, I'm pretty sure my Latin husband is going to have me up and dancing during this show!

We can't wait to pack up our blanket and head back over to the Strathmore's backyard for a show this year. Maybe we'll see you there!

Here's the full schedule:

Thursday, July 7, 2011

9:30 and 11:30 a.m.
SIN MIEDO
“Sin Miedo is a truly international group that makes the Afro Cuban rhythms of Salsa jump into your blood stream and move your hips around” (Washington Flyer). Music-loving tikes will want to bring maracas and shake to the infectious beat of this D.C.-based salsa band.

Thursday, July 14, 2011
9:30 and 11:30 a.m.
TAIKOZA
Taikoza combines traditional costumes, dynamic motion and the colossal sounds of the magnificent Japanese taiko drums.

Thursday, July 21, 2011
9:30 and 11:30 a.m.
CITYDANCE IN THE WARRIOR PRINCESS OF MANIPUR
Balinese, Manipuri, and Bollywood dance come together in a pan-Indian celebration of life, love and transformation. Noopur Singha and Vishal Kanoi, CityDance’s international dance artists, are joined by young dancers from CityDance Conservatory/Select to re-imagine a Tagore tale of an Indian princess from Manipur.

Thursday, July 28, 2011
9:30 and 11:30 a.m.
BARYNYA
This internationally-acclaimed Russian dance ensemble brings the whimsy and wonder of Russian folk and fairytales straight to Strathmore's backyard.

Check out the Strathmore's full schedule and buy tickets here.


Disclosure: The Strathmore provided our family free tickets last summer and again this summer. But I was not required to blog about it and all opinions are my own.


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Free Thursday Concerts at Watkins Regional Park

There are so many reasons to visit Watkins Park this summer! On Thursday evenings, go for the free summer concerts! All performances take place on the "Green" -- bring your own blanket! -- from 7pm-8:30pm.

Here's the schedule:

June 30 - STORM Reggae Band

July 7 - Comfort Zone

July 14 - Shakespeare in the Park - "As You Like It"

July 21 - 8 Ohms Band

July 28 - Teri S

August 4 - Junkyard Saints

On the Green
Watkins Regional Park
301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Free Sunday Concerts at Bladensburg Waterfront Park

Again this summer there are FREE concerts and performances every Sunday at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. Shows are from 6pm-7:30pm. Here's the schedule:

June 26 - Blue Sky Puppet Theatre & Mr. D's Magic Show

July 10 - Kukuwa African Dance Company

July 17 - Electro Koustic (modern & jazz)

July 24 - Mambo Combo (Latin)

July 31 - Mr. Marcus Young (Jazz & R&B)

August 7 - Heda Rose (Hip=Hop, Reggae & Go Go)

August 14 - Oasis/Island Sounds (Steel Drum, Reggae, Calypso, Soca & African Music)


Bladensburg Waterfront Park
4601 Annapolis Road
Bladensburg

View a full schedule of free summer concerts and performances in Prince George's County here.


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Come Out and Play by M-NCPPC

Have you heard? M-NCPPS has been sponsoring a new "mobile recreation" initiative this summer called "Come Out and Play." They've been bringing a DJ, skating, games and more to parks across the County throughout June.

Love it!

Here are the remaining dates:

June 22 – Westphalia Neighborhood Playground: 3201 Squire Road, Upper Marlboro 20772


June 24 – Accokeek East Community Park: 3606 Accokeek Road, Accokeek 20601

June 27 – Kentland Neighborhood Park: 2727 Firehouse Drive, Landover 20785

The fun lasts from 6-8:30pm on the nights listed.



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Big Bubba's Fishing Rodeo, Saturday, May 14

Teach your son or daughter how to cast their line (or let the professionals teach you both!) at Big Bubba's Fishing Rodeo in Bowie this Saturday. They'll even provide the rods and reels!

It's only $5 for ages 5-10 (and all kids must be accompanied by an adult) but you have to pre-register via SMARTlink #457914.

The fishing rodeo takes place at the Governor Bridge Natural Area in Bowie (near the Baysox Stadium) and lasts from 9am-12 noon.

Additional Details:

Governor Bridge Natural Area
7600 Governor Bridge Road
Bowie, MD 20716


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Cheverly Day, Saturday, May 14

The grandest day of the year in Cheverly is Cheverly Day and it's coming up this Saturday, May 14. The wonderful hamlet of Cheverly turns 80 this year and big celebrations are in store.

Stake our your spot on Cheverly Avenue between Kilmer and Forest to see the parade which begins at 10am. Although, quite frankly, it seems everyone in town is in at least one participating group so I don't know who will actually be on hand to view it!

Then, head over to Town Park for a great line-up of musicians and performers on the Main Stage, games at the Midway, tables hosted by town organizations, food vendors, the infamous St. Ambrose Beer Garden, the East v West Softball game (East side rules!), and much, much more.

Make sure to head back to Town Park or another good viewing area (the parking lot of the Methodist Church is good for kiddos who don't like the noise) for the fireworks at 9:15. It's the best show in the area--a trial run for the 4th of July show on the National Mall--you don't want to miss it.

All kinds of details can be found at http://www.cheverlyday.org/.


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Cheverly Truck Touch Thunders into Town on Saturday, May 7

There is one -- and only one -- MUST DO event this weekend: The 14th Annual Cheverly Truck Touch! Here are all the details!

On Saturday, May 7, at the 14th Annual Cheverly Truck Touch, children can sit in the driver's seat of a cement truck, honk the horn of a dump truck, run around inside the trailer of an 18 wheeler, check out a race car, stand on the back of a garbage truck, get up close and personal with a bucket truck, turn on the siren of a police car, put on a fire hat and "drive" a fire truck, and SO MUCH MORE! More than 20 vehicles will be at the Cheverly Truck Touch this year and children can get inside and hands on with every single one of them!

There will also be a small ride-on train, games geared just for little ones, face painting, and yummy hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, drinks, baked goods, balloons and adorable t-shirts for sale.

Admission is just $5 for ages 1-12 (under 1 and over 12 are free!) and includes 4 game tickets (additional game tickets are for sale at just $5 for 20!).

The Cheverly Truck Touch is a fundraiser for the non-profit Cheverly Nursery Schools.

Here are all the details:

14th Annual Cheverly Truck Touch -- www.cheverlynurseryschools.com/trucktouch
Saturday, May 7, 2011
10am-2pm
Cheverly United Methodist Church Parking Lot
2801 Cheverly Avenue, Cheverly, MD 20785

The trucks will fill up the parking lot, but plenty of street parking will be available.

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Maryland Day

There are so many great events to choose from on Saturday, April 30, including Maryland Day, which takes place from 10am until 4pm at the University of Maryland College Park. There is SO MUCH going on at Maryland Day that I can't even begin to scratch the surface on this little 'ole blog. So, instead, I urge you to go direcly to the Maryland Day website at http://www.marylandday.umd.edu/ to get all the details and plan your day.

Have fun!

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Help the National Children's Museum Launch Zone Celebrate its 2nd Birthday!

On Saturday, April 30, the National Children's Museum Launch Zone will celebrate its 2nd Birthday and they're inviting you to the party! The fun begins at 11am and lasts until 4pm.

Enjoy a magician, decorate party hats, make a rain stick, get your face painted, and more! (Well, maybe you should just let the kids enjoy all that!)

They are jumping on the party favor trend by offering mini-Frisbees and popcorn (not to mention all those great crafts your kids can take home!).

Wayne Alan of Child Time Magic will perform at noon and 2pm (shows last approx. 45 minutes).

Many of the Launch Zone neighbors are joining in the fun, too, by giving away small treats and coupons! Stop by The Peeps Store, CakeLove and Ben & Jerry's. Other stores will give away coupons and goodies at the par-tay.

Additional details:

National Children's Museum Launch Zone
2nd Birthday Party
Saturday, April 30, 11am-4pm
112 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

South Mountain Creamery Spring Festival on Saturday, April 30

We've been getting all our eggs, milk, meat and other farm-fresh goodies from South Mountain Creamery in Middleton, MD for more than four years and just adore SMC! Every Thursday morning the cooler on our stoop is filled to the brim with glass bottles of milk, eggs and meat. It is delicious!

If you, too, enjoy deliveries from South Mountain Creamery (or, even if you don't), I highly recommend a trip to the SMC Spring Festival on Saturday, April 30. It's a great way to help your kids understand where their food comes from. In our case, those very cows will have provided the milk they drank that very morning. (And one of the chickens may just be their dinner next week, ahem!)

Admission is free (though there are costs for other things such as yummy food!) to enjoy music, kids' games, hay rides, calf feedings and tours.

Additional Details:

South Mountain Creamery Spring Fesitval
Saturday, April 30 from 10am-5pm
8305 Bolivar Road, Middleton, MD 21769
http://www.southmountaincreamery.com/


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Activities for Easter Monday

Didn't win tickets to the White House Easter Egg Roll lottery? Yeah, me either. But, there are still plenty of family-friendly events to check out on Easter Monday. Here are just a few.

Easter Monday at the National Zoo
A Washington-area tradition going back 100 years, Easter Monday is traditionally known as African American Family Day at the National Zoo in Washington, DC. (But of course all families are welcome!). The event takes place on Monday, April 25, from 10am-4pm. Admission is free, as usual, but there also dozens of free family events--an Easter egg hunt, organized field games, crafts, activities, demonstrations and fabulous music. And last, but certainly not least, the Easter Panda will be on hand throughout the day!! Of course fantastic food and more will be on sale. Click here for a full schedule of events and entertainment.

Additional Details:

National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20008
http://www.nationalzoo.si.edu/


Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Extravaganza
Also on Monday, April 25, from 11am-Noon, Snow Hill Manor in Laurel is hosting their annual outdoor egg hunt with entertainment on the manor grounds. Note: pre-registration is required by calling 301-725-6037 but the cost is only $1 per person.

Additional Details:

Snow Hill Manor
13301 Laurel-Bowie Road
Laurel, MD 20780


Easter Monday Fun Day
Oxon Hill Manor in Oxon Hill, MD is hosting a fun day with games, prizes, face painting and an egg hunt on Easter Monday from 1pm-3pm. Admission is $2 per person.

Additional Details:

Oxon Hill Manor
6901 Oxon Hill Road
Oxon Hill, MD 20744



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Easter and Spring Events this Weekend

There are some really fun and unique Easter and Spring events planned for this Saturday, April 23. Here are the details.

It's Sheep Shearing Day at the Old Maryland Farm at Watkins Park! From 10am-1pm you and your kids can see sheep and llama shearing demonstrations and displays of products made from wool and hair and more. Hayrides are only $1 and you can visit all the other animals as usual. Not to mention that the Old Maryland Farm is right next door to a fantastic playground and the amazing Watkins Nature Center.

Additional Details:

Old Maryland Farm @ Watkins Park
301 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

www.pgparks.com/Things_To_Do/Nature/Old_Maryland_Farm.htm

If you want to do something with eggs but don't need any more candy, Natural Egg Dying at the Mt. Rainier Nature Center may be the thing for you! This Saturday, April 23, from Noon until 3pm you can enjoy the folk art of natural egg dying--be sure to bring your own eggs! It's only $2 for children ages 3-16 but all ages are welcome!

Additional Details:

Mt. Rainier Nature Center
4701 31st Street
Mt. Rainier, MD
www.pgparks.com/places/nature/rainier.html



And if you're looking for a good old Easter Egg Hunt featuring candy, the big bunny himself and more, then be sure to head to one of these events....

Cheverly Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 23, 11am
Photos with the Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Hunt -- bring your own basket
Cheverly Town Park, 6401 Forest Road, Cheverly
Free!

Capitol Hill Easter Eggstravaganza
Sponsored by National Community Church
Saturday, April 23, 10am-2pm
HUGE Easter event for the kids including an egg hunt and tons of activities
Lincoln Park, East Capitol Street, SE, between 11th and 13th Streets, SE
Free!



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Paper Airplane Day, Friday, April 22

Looking for a fun activity when your kids are off school on Friday? The College Park Aviation Museum has come to the rescue! They're hosting a Paper Airplane Day on Friday, April 22 from Noon-4pm. On a regular day, the Aviation Museum has exhibits and activities for all ages, but on Friday, you do all that AND build your own paper airplane and then compete in the annual Paper Airplane Derby at 3pm.

Admission is always $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for ages 2-18, and free for children under 2.

Additional Details:

College Park Aviation Museum
1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive
College Park, MD 20740
http://www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com/



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Washington Nationals: $1 Kids' Tickets and FREE Clinics

Starting with their first season at RFK, we loved sharing Nationals' season tickets with a group of friends. But, after the kids came along, it was hard to justify the price of a seat for kids who had little or no interest in sitting through an entire game. I'm so excited about the Washington Nationals $1 kids' tickets this year!

Starting with this Saturday's 1:05pm game v. the Brewers and for three additional games throughout the season, you can purchase up to four kids' tickets for just $1 each with the purchase of one full-price ticket. You can purchase them on-line in advance or at the Box Office the day of the game. Full list of games and additional info can be found here.

So, take your kids to a game for $1, then on Saturday, April 23, from 9am-noon, take your aspiring Ryan Zimmerman to the first Washington Nationals and M-NCPPC baseball clinic of the season at the Riverdale Park field in Riverdale, MD. It's FREE!

The once-per-month clinics continue through August and are led by former major league players and local high school coaches. They are for boys and girls ages 7-15 and current Nationals players will show up for autographs. Be sure to bring all your gear and pre-register at 301-446-6800 because the first 100 kids registered will receive 2 free tickets to a future Nationals game! Click here for all the details and full schedule.

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

March Through Time this Weekend

The 19th annual multi-period living history encampment in Prince George's County, Marching Through Time, takes place this Saturday and Sunday, April 16 and 17 on the grounds of the Marietta House Museum. We stumbled on this event last year and really enjoyed it!

Originally from Pennsylvania (and near Gettysburg), I'm used to seeing Civil War reenactors, but I didn't realize that there are reenactors from pretty much every war out there! Last year at Marching Through Time, we saw soldiers from the Roman Legion, the Irish Republican Army, the Revolutionary War, WWI, WWII and many others! Lucas also loved the long bow and cannon demonstrations.

The entire event is free (even parking--go to the lot at the Glen Dale Community Center and take the free shuttle, it's much easier than trying to park along the busy road) but there are several vendors selling food and other wares. It would be the perfect place to find princess or knight gear for your little dress up artist.

Additional Details:

Marching Through Time
Saturday, April 16 and Sunday, April 17
11am-5pm
Marietta House Museum
5626 Bell Station Road, Glen Dale, MD
(Free parking and shuttle at the Glen Dale Community Center, look for the signs)
Free admission; food and wares for sale

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Easter Events this Weekend

Easter is right around the corner and the area's many Easter events are starting! Two fun events are happening this weekend, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex and Magic Eggsravaganza, both on Saturday, April 16.

Admission is $3 per person at the Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex Annual Easter Egg Hunt, which takes place from 12:30-3pm. Bring your own basket to hunt for eggs then enjoy arts and crafts, games and more. The Easter Bunny is available for photos (nominal charge).

Additional Details:
Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex
8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785

Another great option on Saturday is Magic Eggsravaganza from 12-2pm at the Langley Park Community Center in Hyattsville. Admission is $2 for Prince George's County Residents and $3 for others. There will be a magic show, the chance to meet the Easter Bunny (whew, he's a busy guy!) and games. Bring your own basket for the egg hunt!

Additional Details:
Langley Park Community Center
1500 Merrimac Drive
Hyattsville, MD 20783

I don't know about you, but we're going to have a hard time deciding which to check out!

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Cherry Blossom Parade and Sakura Matsura Japanese Street Festival

The blooms are beginning to turn to leaves but the Cherry Blossom Festival continues this weekend with the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade and the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival, both on Saturday, April 9.

The parade takes place from 10am-noon along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets. Seating is free along the parade route, but plan to arrive early as there are sure to be big crowds. This year's event will include grand floats, marching bands, performers and giant helium balloons.

Sakura Matsuri, the annual Japanese street festival, is making two changes this year. First, they are charging  admission: $5 per person ages 13 and up. Second, their theme is "Stand with Japan" this year and part of the proceeds will benefit Japanese recovery efforts. In addition, numerous vendors will be making donations and volunteers will be collecting donations for the Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Fund. The Bezos Family Foundation will be making a $2 donation for every paper crane made at the children's corner.

The festival features more than 20 hours of live performances, art and cultural demonstrations, food and a wonderful Children's Corner and stretches more than six city blocks, from 9th to 14th Streets, NW on Pennsylvania Avenue. (That's approximately from the FBI building to just before the White House.)

Additional details:

http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/
http://www.sakuramatsuri.org/



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Day of the Dinosaur at Watkins Nature Center

Loyal readers already know that Watkins Nature Center is one of our favorite places. Abel took the boys there today and discovered that tomorrow, Saturday, April 2, is Day of the Dinosaur at the Watkins Nature Center!

In addition to getting a neat coloring book all about Maryland's dinosaurs, kids can enjoy a prehistoric puppet show, "living links" animal show, activities & crafts, and fossil displays.

Kids: wear a dinosaur costume and you'll get a prize!

Here are the specifics:

Day of the Dinosaur at Watkins Nature Center
Saturday, April 2 from 12-3pm
301 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

$3 per person, ages 2 and up.


Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Children's Events during the National Cherry Blossom Festival March 26 - April 10

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most exciting times be in Washington, DC. Tourists by the thousands flock to the city to see the beautiful blossoms, sometimes causing natives (or transplants!) to stay away. Sure, the Tidal Basin is PACKED, but there is so much more to the National Cherry Blossom Festival than a shoulder to shoulder stroll under Jefferson's watch.

Check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival website for a ton of wonderful activities for children!

(And my insider hint: if you really want to enjoy the blossoms, head over to the National Arboretum! They have the same trees, the same beautiful blossoms and a fraction of the crowds!)

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Free: Baysox Free Family FunFest

The Bowie Baysox will host their 12th Annual Free Family FunFest on Saturday, March 26 from 10am until 2pm rain or shine.

Highlights include free rides, games, inflatables, music, games and face painting. Louie, the Oriole Bird, and Dora will join in the fun as will the Prince George's County Fire/EMS department with vehicles on display.

Details:

Bowie Baysox Free Family FunFest
Saturday, March 26
10am-3pm
Prince George's Stadium
4101 Crain Highway
Bowie, MD 20716



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Don't Miss the Pachyderm Parade on Tuesday, March 22 @ 2pm

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is on its way to DC and that can mean only one thing...The Elephant Walk is coming to Captitol Hill!

KidFriendly DC has the scoop on the route and details. Find all the info you'll need to enjoy this free parade here.


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Dress as Kings and Queens to Celebrate Purim at the National Children's Museum Launch Zone

I am sorry to admit that I don't know much about the Jewish holiday of Purim but I did write a paper (an exegesis for any nerds out there!) on a passage in the Book of Esther in college, the book in which the story of Purim is told. I've always loved the gumption of Esther!

The National Children's Museum has been celebrating holidays around the world and this weekend's celebration is Purim. It sounds like a wonderful celebration and a great way for your child to learn more about their own religion or to explore another one.

Children are encouraged to come dressed as kings or queens, you know your little princesses out there will love that! The story of Purim will be read at 11:30am (Saturday only), 1pm and 2pm (both days). Children can make noise makers and enjoy other activities. In honor of the Jewish tradition of mishloach manot, or sending portions, all are encouraged to bring a canned good to donate to the Capitol Area Food Bank.

Here are all the details:

Celebrate Holidays Around the World: Purim
National Children's Museum Launch Zone
112 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD
Saturday, March 19, 11am-4pm
Sunday, March 20, 12:00-4pm
Free! No registration required



Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!

Refuge System Birthday Bash, Saturday, March 12

Take your family to the Patuxent Research Refuge this Saturday, March 12 to celebrate the birthday of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

It's impolite to ask what birthday, but I'll tell you that the National Wildlife Refuge has now been around for 108 years! Here are some fun facts:

*President Theodore Roosevelt designated Florida's Pelican Island as the first wildlife refuge in 1903.

*The system now inclues more than 150 milion acres, 553 national wildlife refuges (and other units) and 38 wetland management districts.

*Almost 41 million people visit national wildlife refuges each year, generating almost $1.7 billion for regional economies.

(Those fun facts and more can be found at www.fws.gov/refuges)

Maryland has five National Wildlife Refuges and Prince Georgian's are lucky to have one in our backyard: The Patuxent National Wildlife Refuge.

They'll be ringing in 108 years young with activites, crafts and live animals (performances by Reptile World!)--all free. Bring some money to enjoy the first guided tram tours of the seaon and, of course, food.

Details:

Refuge System Birthday Bash
Saturday, March 12, 2011
10am-3pm
Patuxent National Wildlife Refuge

10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop
Laurel, MD 20708

Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!