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  • 6 family-friendly outdoor activities to join this weekend
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6 family-friendly outdoor activities to join this weekend

Fill your weekend with cicadas, frogs, owls, and more.

By Michele Kettner April 28, 2021 at 12:20 pm

With these warm temps staying around this weeknd, you’re probably looking to get out of the house and break your cabin fever. From a Mother’s Day picnic to a Revolutionary War weekend, ring in the first weekend in May with these family-friendly outdoor activities.

Park Pop-Ups! – Bluemont Park

Friday, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Once the school and work day is over, bring the family over to the park. Everyone will have fun learning about the park’s history through different activities, artifacts, and hands-on learning.  // Bluemont Park: 601 N. Manchester St., Arlington; free

Cicada Hunt

Saturday through June 30
With the cicadas coming out of their slumber, make a game of summer bugs’ return. Wander the over 1,000 acres of Morven Park and search for those creepy-crawlies. Follow the parks’ Facebook page for fun facts and updates on cicada season at the park. // Morven Park: 17195 Southern Planter Ln., Leesburg

Revolutionary War Weekend

Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Transport yourself back to the 18th century for a weekend of battles. Join General Washington and the colonists as they fight the British for freedom. The two-day event will include everything from cavalry demonstrations to 18th-century music to a meet and greet with Lady Washington and much more. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon; included with admission

Mommy & Me Picnic and Cookie Shop

Saturday, noon-3 p.m.
Celebrate Mother’s Day a week early with your little one. Join your favorite princesses for a special picnic in the park. After your delicious meal, pick up some fresh cookies to top off a day with Mom. // Sherwood Forest Park: Twin Leaf Dr., Bristow; $12

Owl Prowl

Saturday, 8:30-10 p.m.
Break out the flashlights and join the quest to find these beloved owls. On your adventure to find the Barred Owl, your group will be able to learn about its behavior and role in the ecosystem. And don’t worry if you don’t find one in the forest, because everyone will still be able to meet Smoke, the resident Eastern Screen-owl. // Potomac Overlook Regional Park: 2845 N. Marcey Rd., Arlington; $8

Frog Karaoke Campfire

Sunday, 7:30 p.m.
While everyone is focused on the return of the cicadas, the frogs are also making their way back as the weather warms. Before the summer season, join this campfire event to learn about the native frogs and hear their chorus along the streams. // Ellanor C. Lawrence Park: 5040 Walney Rd., Chantilly; $8

For more family-friendly events, subscribe to our Family newsletter.

Michele Kettner

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.

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