Weekend Fun: The Best Family Events Around D.C. (July 9-12)

Family events around DC this weekend include the reopening of "Beyond the Blooms" at ARTECHOUSE DC
“Hanami: Beyond the Blooms” digital instillation reopens at ARTECHOUSE DC | Courtesy photo

Revisit Spring

Visitors had only two days in March to experience “Hanami: Beyond the Blooms” at ARTECHOUSE DC before the art space was closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. But the awe-inspiring digital installation is once again open the public this weekend—with new safety protocols in place, of course. It’s like cherry blossom season all over again! Thursday, 12-8 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; $45 for two adults and two kids; Reservations required.

Prep for the Future

The National Museum of African American History and Culture kicks off a new summer series for middle and high school students that explores careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). African American STEM professionals will discuss the education and career decisions that led them to their current roles and take questions from teens watching on Zoom. Friday, July 10, from 2-3 p.m. Free. Registration required.

Create Outdoor Art

Ever wonder how the outdoor sculptures at the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) continue to look good despite being exposed to all the elements? In this hands-on virtual family workshop, children ages three to five will learn about “art doctors,” or conservationists, and their preservation techniques before experimenting with some artmaking. Saturday, July 11, from 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Registration required.

Have a Laugh

Montgomery County Public Library brings Blue Sky Puppet Theater’s virtual puppet show about acceptance and inclusion to the under 10 crowd via Zoom. “Rufus” is a fast-paced, funny story about shy, lost dog who finds friendship and learns about individuality along the way. Saturday, July 11, 2-3 p.m. Free. 

Listen to a Podcast

The Boston Children’s Museum has a new podcast for parents called Big & Little Podcast that covers topics from creativity, health, play and more. Episodes are around 20 minutes in length, and one recent one includes advice on parenting in a pandemic. Any time.

Color These Books

The National Ocean Service offers regional activity books with coloring pages and fun facts about puffins, crabs or loggerhead turtles. Kids can use these books to explore the Chesapeake Bay, coastal North Carolina, the Arctic and Hawaii, among other places. We suggest keeping them on hand for a rainy afternoon. Any time.

Talk About Peace

Some of your little one’s favorite musicians, including Sharon & Bram, Josh Lovelace and Slash’N Boots, have joined up to record a new music video, “Talk About Peace.” The song isn’t new—it was written more than 50 years ago by Joe Hampson of the folk group The Travelers—but its message of love, peace and a world full of happiness endures. Any time.


For more family fun, check out Washington FAMILY’s full event calendar. And if you have an event coming up that you’d like to share with our readership, be sure to add it to our calendar.

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