It’s time to have some fun with the kiddos! Here, find five events happening this weekend that will keep them entertained and happy.
Put it on Ice
The Fairfax County Parks Authority has reopened its ice rink at the Mount Vernon RECenter and is hosting timed skating sessions for those who want to beat the summer heat. Skaters can register for two-hour time blocks during afternoon and evening sessions, and pre-pay online. Health precautions will be in place, including a temperature check and health screening prior to entry. Masks/face coverings are required for all. Lockers will not be available. // Multiple dates; 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria
Rock the Park
Kids 4 and up are invited to learn all about geology while crafting with a NoVA Parks naturalist. Participants will meet at Potomac Overlook Regional Park and hike to the stream, where they’ll find a rock and paint it. Participants will also look for more painted rocks that have been hidden during a fun scavenger hunt. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Social-distancing protocols will be in place and all are encouraged to wear a mask. All participants must pre-register. // Sunday, July 26; 2845 Marcey Road, Arlington; $7 per participant
Roar for More
After an extended closure due to COVID-19, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in DC opens this Friday, July 24. Head over with the family to visit with the pandas, lions and all the other animals that you’ve been missing. All guests must obtain free, timed-entry passes in advance and all guests over 6 years old are required to wear masks, among other new safety protocols. // 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Look Up at Udvar-Hazy
The only other Smithsonian that has the honor of reopening is the one in our own backyard. The Steven. F. Udvar-Hazy Museum also reopens this Friday, July 24. Guests can look at the museum’s array of air and space memorabilia in its socially distant-friendly hangar. Note that guests must obtain a free, timed-entry pass and guests must wear face coverings. // 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly
Take a (Virtual) Field Trip
While Wolf Trap remains closed for the time being, the beloved performing arts venue continues to offer online programming for adults and kids alike. Field Trip Fridays offer family-friendly performances from Wolf Trap Teaching Artists in an effort to give children an opportunity to experience the arts. This Friday, July 24, learn from Wolf Trap Master Teaching Artist Melissa Richardson with her presentation of Pernilla’s Amazing Inventions, a story about Pernilla Gorilla and her love of inventing in the jungle. Each Field Trip Friday includes an accompanying educational handout, which can be found on the Wolf Trap website.
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