We hope your calendar is wide open because the next few days are jam-packed with Valentine’s Day activities to enjoy with the ones you love. Plus, Disney characters take to the ice at Capital One Arena and George Washington celebrates his 288th birthday with a big ol’ house party. Keep reading for more family-friendly things to do around DC this weekend.
Thursday, February 13
Disney On Ice “Celebrate Memories” with your favorite Disney characters — and make a new one as a family — as Moana, Woody, Buzz, Anna and others take to the ice in this exciting show. Through Feb. 17. 7:30 p.m. at Capital One Arena, Washington, DC. $15+
Blippi Live! Your preschooler’s favorite YouTube character stops in DC as he makes his way across North America singing, dancing and making new friends. Parents, if Blippi looks a little different, it’s because he’s being played by a stage actor rather than the original YouTube star. 6 p.m. at Warner Theatre, Washington, DC. $29.50+
Friday, February 14
Valentine’s Day Skate Your child can ice skate to their heart’s delight and then head into the party rooms to make valentines for friends and family. Children under 6 require parent participation while skating and crafting. 4:45 p.m. at Cabin John Ice Rink, Rockville, MD. $8 per child includes skate rental, public skate admission and crafts.
Hearts and Hugs Memories with Mom Table for three, please! Enjoy a delicious meal with your child and their American Girl doll and make memories as you spend an evening together. Ticket includes a goodie bag with a craft and doll tote. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 5 p.m. at American Girl Store, Tyson’s Corner Center, Washington, DC. $28 per person.
Valentine’s Day Handi-Hour Pop-Up Craft your heart out at this annual event and skip the store-bought valentines! Paper, scissors, stickers, glue and other supplies will be provided, with drinks and snacks available to purchase. Registration recommended. 5 p.m. at Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC. FREE.
Saturday, February 15
“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” Relive the magic of the first Harry Potter movie on the big screen — and don’t worry, it’s definitely not too early in the morning for popcorn! Rated PG. 10 a.m. at Angelika Film Center, Fairfax, VA. $8.50.
Cookie Decorating Class Bakers-in-training will learn how to decorate cookies using a variety of techniques and tools in a workshop led by the hotel’s executive pastry chef. Includes a kid-friendly buffet. Recommended for ages 4-12. 11 a.m. at The Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, DC. $45 for one child and up to two parents.
Teddy Bear Tea Party Bring your favorite teddy bear or plush toy for an afternoon of stories, special crafts and treats. Dress to impress your fuzzy friends in your tea-time best. Registration required. 2 p.m. at Herndon Community Center, Herndon, VA. $18 for one child and one adult. $10 for each additional child.
LGTBQ+ Family Dance & Pizza Party Put on your dancing shoes for this fun-filled inclusive Valentine’s event, hosted by Rainbow Families. Recommended for children ages 2-9. 5:30 p.m. at Chevy Chase UMC, Chevy Chase, MD. $8 for children 3 and up, $17 for adults.
Presidential Family Fun Day Presidents’ Day Weekend kicks off with a party in Kogod Courtyard featuring crafts, music, dancing and games. Don’t miss the Washington Nationals’ Racing Presidents, experts from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and special tours of “America’s Presidents.” 11:30 a.m. at National Portrait Gallery, Washington, DC. FREE.
Check out our events calendar for more family-friendly things to do in and around DC!
Sunday, February 16
NSO Family Concert “Girl Power! Celebrating Women in Music” showcases female artists in honor of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. Children can enjoy hands-on activities and see musical instruments up close starting one hour before each show. The 2 p.m. performance will be sensory-friendly. Ages 5 and up. 2 p.m & 4 p.m. at The Kennedy Center, Washington, DC. $15-$18.
Rumpus Room Valentine’s Day Dance Take a spin around the dance floor with your loved ones at this daytime family dance party. There’ll be disco balls, lights and kid-friendly music at a kid-friendly volume. Recommended for ages 8 and under. 2 p.m. at Black Cat, Washington, DC. $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
Bonus! Monday, February 17
Washington’s Birthday Celebration You’re invited to spend the day at the home of our first president in honor of Presidents’ Day. Ceremonial events include a presidential tribute and wreath laying, military demonstrations and musical performances. 9 a.m. at George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, VA. FREE.
Dr. Seuss Ballet The Metropolitan Ballet Ensemble brings the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life through dance. Stories include classics like “The Cat in the Hat,” “Green Eggs and Ham” and “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.” Ages 4 and up. 12:30 p.m. at Arts on the Green, Gaithersbug, MD. $10 for children 6 and under, $12+
