When your kids get older, they tend to make their own plans on the weekends, which typically consist of nights out with their friends. This weekend though, it’ll be easy to entice them to spend some time with the family, thanks to these entertaining and unique events happening throughout the region.
Pearls Empowerment Mentoring Program
Saturday, Feb. 2, 9-11 a.m.
Young girls in grades six through 12 are all welcome to join this special event hosted by Pearls Empowerment, Inc., a local organization that strives to encourage, equip and empower girls to pursue their dreams. Throughout the morning, women will participate in a service learning project, creating Valentine’s Day craft items, writing handwritten notes and making toys for those in need. Plus, they’ll have the chance to take part in a forensic science workshop and hear from career experts. Mothers and grandmothers are invited to join in and observe too. // Leesburg Police Department: 65 Plaza St. NE, Leesburg; $0-$250
Old Town Books Fiction Book Club: Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
Saturday, Feb. 1, 10-11 a.m.
Calling all mothers and daughters: Be inspired this weekend through a reading of Girl, Woman, Other, the highly acclaimed novel written by Bernardine Evaristo. The book tells the tale of 12 very different women in Britain who range in age from 19 to 93 and encounter a variety of challenges through the years. Evaristo’s tale is a profound look at the African diaspora, as well as an empowering story for all young women to hear. // Old Town Books: 104 S. Union St., Alexandria; free, registration required
2020 Virginia Polar Dip
Saturday, Feb. 1, noon-4 p.m.
Show your teenagers just how cool you are by diving into the freezing waters of Lake Anne this winter. You and your entire family can join a team or create your own for this polar plunge, raising funds for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. While you’ll be benefiting a good cause, you’ll have fun too, as there will be several vendors, a DJ and entertaining events happening on land. // Reston Community Center Lake Anne: 1609-A Washington Plaza N., Reston; free
Board Gaming Afternoon
Saturday, Feb. 1, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Put the phones down and embrace your competitive side this weekend by playing history-themed board games. Throughout the day, you and the kids can play rare games found on the shelves of the Weems-Botts Museum either against each other or other local families. // The Weems-Botts Museum & Annex: 3944 Cameron St., Dumfries; free, registration required
St. John the Beloved Family Mardi Gras Celebration
Saturday, Feb. 1, 6-10 p.m.
The real Mardi Gras might not start for another few weeks, but here in Northern Virginia the celebration has already begun. All families of McLean are invited to join in on the fun this weekend, where guests can indulge in Louisiana-born food like gumbo, muffuletta and king cake from Arlington-based Bayou Bakery. Plus, there will be live music, masks to wear and plenty of games that both you and the kids will enjoy. // Saint John the Beloved Catholic Church: 6420 Linway Terrace, McLean; $10-$45
Family Yoga
Sunday, Feb. 2, 11 a.m.-noon
Get a little head space with your teen before the week starts back up through this youth-focused yoga class. You and your family will come together to stretch your bodies, clear your heads and enjoy light bites to rejuvenate energy following the class. Plus, the session takes place in a soothing environment surrounded by nature that is sure to help you relax this Sunday. // Yours Truly, Yoga: 10250 Akhtamar Drive, Great Falls; donations encouraged
Mommy and Me Baking
Sunday, Feb. 2, 1 p.m.
Just because your kid might not call you Mommy anymore, doesn’t mean this baking class isn’t a great bonding activity you can both enjoy. Throughout the three-hour session, you’ll learn to create staples of British teatime, like rainbow jam tarts, cinnamon sugar palmiers and English cheddar and ham toasties. // Sur La Table: 1101 S. Joyce St., Suite B-20, Arlington; $59
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