An early start to maple sugaring season, Chinese New Year celebrations and adrenaline-packed monster truck racing are just a few of the family-friendly activities taking place around DC this weekend that we think look like a blast. For more fun things to do with your kids, check out our event calendar.
Thursday, January 23
Tip-Tapping Maple Trees Using drills, spiles and metal buckets, children ages 5 and up will learn the old-fashioned way of tapping a maple tree. Brookside Nature Center, Wheaton, MD, 3 p.m. $3
Friday, January 24
Strong Start DC Community Playgroup Learn about early childhood development, developmental screenings and the Strong Start DC Early Intervention Program referral process while engaging in age-appropriate play with your 2–3 year old. Registration required. Northeast Library, Washington, DC, 10 a.m. FREE
Book Signing Meet children’s author Thomas Taylor and get a signed copy of his new middle grade novel, “Malamander.” This quirky fantasy follows a colorful cast of characters in hot pursuit of a sea monster thought to convey a surprising gift. RSVP required. Loyalty Bookstore, Washington, DC, 5:30 p.m. FREE.
Saturday, January 25
Pokémon Day Bring your Pokémon cards and Nintendo DS games for a morning of playing and trading as your kids try to catch them all! Ages 5 and up. Dale City Library, Dale City, VA, 10:30 a.m. FREE
Winter Blast: A Family Day of Native Games Visitors of all ages are invited to learn traditional Navajo, Hawaiian and Bolivian games and participate in hands-on activities and “make-and-take” projects. The National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, DC, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. FREE
KC Chinese New Year Family Day This annual event features arts and crafts, a traditional costume photo booth, zodiac stickers, calligraphy demonstrations, a magic show and more. Don’t miss the celebratory dinner menu for the Lunar New Year at the KC Cafe and the new Winter Lanterns installation at The REACH. The Kennedy Center, Washington, DC, 1:30-4:30 p.m. FREE
Sunday, January 26
Monster Jam Triple Threat “The hottest show on wheels” is back in town! Young fans can meet the massive trucks in person and get autographs and photos with drivers and crews at the post-show Pit Party! Also January 25th. Capital One Arena, Washington, DC, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20+
“Matilda” Based on Roald Dahl’s popular children’s book, the Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of a special little girl with an extraordinary imagination. Presented by Levine Music Theatre. Arena Stage, Washington, DC, 2 p.m. $15-$25
DC Chinese New Year Parade Ring in the Year of the Rat with a parade through Chinatown! Starting at 6th and Eye St. NW, catch traditional lion and dragon dances, Kung Fu demos, live music and marching bands, firecrackers and more. Chinatown, Washington, DC, 2 p.m. FREE
Bonus! Monday, January 27
ArtStream’s Cabaret Company Presents: Brave Adult actors with special needs work with volunteer mentors and theatre professionals to put on a cabaret-style performance that includes music, dancing, comedy and original scenes. Individuals with disabilities ages 16-26 may receive two free tickets by calling 301-565-4567 three days in advance. Amp by Strathmore, North Bethesda, MD, 7:30 p.m. $10-$15
