14 May, 2013

Step Up to the KazokuFit Family Obstacle Course Challenge

Kids take on the KazokuFit challenge

Kids take on the KazokuFit challenge



Obstacle courses are all the rage these days. Mud runs and other races that involve physical challenges along the way seem to take place all the time now. In fact, I did one of those mud runs with a group of girlfriends last summer and registered months ago to do it again this July. And I remember when I told Owen exactly what it involved — scaling walls, slogging through mud pits, crawling under gates, navigating webs of rope, whizzing down a slide into a giant puddle, climbing up a lofty net — the first thing out of his mouth was, “Can I do one? That sounds so fun!” He was right, it was so fun, but I had to give him the ol’, “Sorry, kiddo, it’s for grown-ups only.” Because at the time, there wasn’t anything like it for kids around here.

But that’s about to change thanks to KazokuFit, a new company that produces obstacle courses and adventure races with all ages in mind. DC’s first-ever family obstacle course challenge is happening this Saturday, May 18, at American University. KazokuFit founders Polina Gregory and Mark Shafer came up with the idea because they wanted their own kids to experience an obstacle course challenge — and they wanted to be able to join them.

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The race is designed for families to do together, and with “We have no sidelines” as their tagline, families are encouraged to run, jump, crawl, and climb their way through it. The course is a half-mile long with obstacles specifically created to challenge family members of all ages. It can be repeated multiple times, and they actually want to see how many times racers can do it. Kids ages 6-14 can race with or without a parent (they are highly encouraged to join, though), while younger children must have an adult on the course with them.

There will be heats at 10am, 10:45am, 1:45pm, and 2:30pm. Cost is $25 for a single participant, $45/team of 2, $60/team of 3, $70/team of 4. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit the charity Journey 4 a Cure, a pediatric cancer foundation. You can register your family on the website.

And if you can’t make it this weekend, you’ll have another opportunity for a family obstacle course challenge on June 29 at the Brambleton Town Center in Virginia.

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Events take place rain or shine, and there’s a chance of getting wet at the Brambleton event even if the sun is out. Sponsors Honest Tea, Drink More Water, and Whole Foods will provide healthy drinks and snacks, but there will not be other food/drink for purchase. The DC course will be located at the American University field at Massachusetts Avenue and 45th Street NW.

Oh, and they’ve created a pledge, which I really dig (especially the part about whining).

We will be our best selves.
We will embrace challenges.
We will give it our all.
We will forget how to whine.
We will not care if we get dirty, wet or tired.
Most importantly, we will do it as a family and have fun.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by KazokuFit, however, I only promote activities, events, and services that I sincerely enjoy and think would appeal to KFDC readers.


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Filed under Competition, DC, Gradeschoolers, Outdoor, Preschoolers, Preteens, Sports, Spring, Summer, Teens, Weekend

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13 May, 2013

Heads-Up on Local Closings

Due to sequestration, the National Arboretum will be closed Tuesdays, Wednesday, & Thursdays

Due to sequestration, the National Arboretum will be closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays



Within just the last few days, I’ve learned about a couple of closings to keep in mind — both are places among the KFDC compendium for family recreation.

As of this week, the U.S. National Arboretum will be closed to the public every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as a result of the sequester and budget cuts to the federal Agricultural Research Service, a U.S. Agriculture Department bureau that operates the Arboretum. It was being reported that an entrance fee would also be instituted, but admission will remain free. You can read more about the reduced public visitation hours here.

The National Aquarium in DC, located in the lower level of the Department of Commerce, will close its doors for good on September 30, due to renovations in the building. The collection of more than 1,500 animals will be transitioned to new homes at either National Aquarium in Baltimore or other accredited aquariums. And while I realize that some folks aren’t impressed by the relatively small display of marine life, I consider it a loss. The compact space and simple exhibits are perfect for little aquarium-goers, a great introduction to the underwater world. (Hey, my kids get excited about the lobster tanks in seafood restaurants.) If you haven’t yet been, and your babes are fascinated by fish, go check it out while you can. Hours are Sunday – Thursday 9am – 6pm and Friday – Saturday 9am – 7pm. Admission is $9.95/adults, $4.95/ages 3-11, free for under 3.

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Filed under DC, Educational, Exhibit, Free, Nature, Outdoor, Weekdays, Weekend

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12 May, 2013

Where to Play on the Weekdays: May 13-17

Strolling through the Children's Garden at Brookside

Strolling through the Children’s Garden at Brookside



Monday - Wander around the beautiful grounds, play in the cute Children’s Garden, and walk among hundreds of butterflies at the annual Wings of Fancy exhibit at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Md. The park is open sunrise to sunset, the Visitor Center 9am – 5pm, and the exhibit 10am – 4pm. Admission to the park is free, but it’s $6/adults and $4/ages 3-12 for the butterflies.

Tuesday - See an amazing collection of model ships, peer into a real periscope, sit in the gun seats of old fighter planes, view naval artifacts hundreds of years old, and much more at the U.S. Navy Museum. Located on the Navy base in southeast DC, it’s a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits. Hours are 9am – 5pm. Admission is free.

Wednesday - Take a Winnie the Pooh inspired wagon ride through Riverbend Park. Journey through the woods to Poohsticks bridge, listening to Winnie the Pooh’s story on the way. The fun begins at 10am, cost is $5 for Fairfax county residents, $7/non-residents. Register here — space is limited, but if you can’t get a spot on the wagon, explore on foot instead. The park has easy trails, great nature viewing, and there’s never a big crowd. Plus, the Visitor Center is open 9am – 5pm on weekdays.

Thursday - Let the kids to shop at the market, tend to the ranch, bake in the kitchen, decorate cupcakes, and do some art projects — all possibilities in the Playseum’s various themed rooms and crafts areas. Visit the Capitol Hill or Bethesda location and plan on lunch while you’re out; both are convenient to many eateries for a pre- or post-play meal. Admission is $7/person (siblings under 11 months are free) and is good for the whole day.

Friday - Drop in for story time and other activities at your local library, or just go to check out books. See this post from the early KFDC days for a little background and quick links to libraries around the area.


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Filed under All ages, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Nature, Ongoing, Outdoor, Park, Spring, Virginia, Weekdays

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10 May, 2013

The Weekend Round-Up: May 11-12

The Friday Concert Series at Yards Park is a perfect way to kick off the weekend

The Friday Night Concert Series at Yards Park, a perfect way to kick off the weekend



This round-up of events keeps the weekend’s honorees in mind, with picks that moms will, hopefully, enjoy just as much as the kids. (Plus, one that’s just for all the mamas.) Happy Weekend! And a very Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms!

Shortcut to Europe
Where: EU Embassies
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Avoid the airfare and jet lag and explore The Continent from this side of the pond. Passport DC invites you to join European Union embassies and the EU Delegation for a day of international food, dancing, kids entertainment, exhibitions, vacation planning, and more. Get a rare behind-the-scenes look at the embassies, some of which are among Washington’s historic and architectural treasures. Free shuttle bus service will be available throughout the day, and some embassies are convenient to Metro for walking. Admission is free, but bring identification, as some embassies will conduct security checks. Get an idea of what to expect in this post about our experience at the Around the World Embassy Tour last weekend.

National Train Day
Where: Union Station
When: Saturday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
All aboard for National Train Day! Events celebrating the day will take place all around the country, and Union Station’s will feature free kids’ activities sponsored by Chuggington, interactive and educational exhibits, model train displays and giveaways. Visitors will have the chance to tour private luxury railcars, freight and commuter trains, as well as current Amtrak equipment.

Hello Gorgeous!
Where: The Tabula Rasa
When: Saturday, 5-9pm
Admission: $10/person, $15/two people
Hey, Mamas (or Dads who are still looking for a way to treat Mom)! How about treating yourself to some fun and pampering in honor of YOU on Saturday? The Tabula Rasa on Barracks Row is hosting a “Hello Gorgeous” pop-up event. Indulge in hair, make-up, and mini-photo sessions with locally acclaimed photographer Elizabeth Dranitzke of Photopia; do a little (or a lot of) shopping, and enjoy sweet treats and bubbly. This post has all the details. See you there!

Carousel Grand Opening Celebration
Where: National Harbor
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, 12pm
Admission: Free
National Harbor is unveiling the newest addition to its expanding waterfront with a Grand Opening celebration all weekend long. The Carousel at National Harbor is a 36-foot Americana-themed carousel installed at the water’s edge. The area housing it also features a newly-built playground and picnic area for families looking to relax and soak up some sun at the harbor. Throw in the toddler play area and the view and it becomes a waterfront attraction with never-ending appeal! Grand Opening festivities start at 12pm each day and feature:
live entertainment by Rocknocerus and The Great Zucchini; appearances by Slapshot, G-Wiz, Pinch, Peep and Fireball; Radio Disney
hosting; Stella’s PopKern Truck, balloon art, and face painting. Visit the website for the detailed schedule.

Nats vs. Cubs
Where: Nationals Park
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: Ticket prices vary
The Nats are hosting the Cubs this weekend, with an evening game on Friday (7:05pm) and afternoon games on Saturday (4:05pm) on Sunday (1:35pm). Take advantage of the Harris Teeter Family Pack promo and stay after for Kids Run the Bases when children ages 4-12 can loop the in field after the final out. (Cross fingers that my unlucky streak ends tonight! If the Nats lose, I think we can officially say it’s my fault.)

Shag by the River
Where: Yards Park
When: Friday, 6:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
It’s going to be a perfect evening for a Yards Park Friday Concert. The series got off to a great start last weekend, and with the band Shag playing Brit pop tunes tonight, the fun is guaranteed to continue. Concessions will be available from Pepe, Jose Andres’ mobile sandwiches, and the BBQ Bus food truck. You can also BYO food and drinks (adult bevvies okay, too). As I’ve mentioned before, the fountains are not on right now, but there’s plenty of space for kids (and grown-ups) to frolic and dance on the boardwalk.

Maryland Faerie Festival
Where: Darlington,MD
When: Friday 5pm, Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Admission: $5/ages 3-12, $15/ages 12-99
Indulge little faerie dreams at the annual festival inspired by faerie folklore and literature. From what I hear, it’s kind of like Renn Fest on a much smaller scale with facets that will delight children, especially those who believe in the faeries. Treasure hunts, a May pole, craft projects, giant bubbles, and acrobats are some of the activities kids (and adults) will enjoy. Art, craft, and jewelry vendors, plus classes on gardening and cooking will appeal to the bigger faeries in the crowd.

Art & Asparagus Mother’s Day Weekend
Where: Great Country Farms
When: Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $8/child $10/adult
Forget the flowers for Mother’s Day this year and replace them with a unique – and tasty – bouquet of asparagus, fresh from the farm! The veggies will be at their peak, so Great Country Farms is offering them along with other special treat. Let dad take the kids out to the five- acre play area, while Mom enjoys shopping in the Farm Market stocked with jams & jellies, honey, local meats, baked goods and great gift ideas! Or just relax over lunch and a strawberry sundae in our Roosteraunt concession stand. 

Show Time
Where: Local Theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
Here’s the live entertainment on local stages this weekend:
- See a special Friday night concert by Johnny Juarez at Adventure Theatre at 7pm this evening.
- Catch a performance of Big Nate at Adventure Theatre.
- The Amazing & Marvelous Cabinets of Kismet, a special puppet show, will be at Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint.
- The Magic Finger & James and the Giant Peach are still on the Imagination Stage – shows have been extended through June 2!
- See the marionette version of Cinderella or a Tiny Tots show at The Puppet Co.
- Farmer Jason is playing the 10:30am show at Jammin’ Java on Saturday.
-Hello Dolly! is still on stage at Ford’s Theatre production.

Bolivian Festival
Where: National Museum of the American Indian
When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Admission: Free
I’ve found over the years that the American Indian Museum knows how to do a good festival, and it sounds like this one will follow suit. The Bolivian Festival celebrates the International Year of Quinoa with dance performances, storytelling, folk music, art demos, food, and more fun for all ages. The event is on now and running through Sunday. Be sure to stop by the imagiNATIONS family activity center on the third floor for programs especially for kids. Museum hours are 10am -5pm.

International Migratory Bird Day Festival
Where: Rock Creek Park Nature Center
When: Saturday, 9am – 3pm
Admission: Free
Join the Rock Creek Nature Center and the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center for guided bird walks, live raptor programs, children’s activities, performances from local schools as well as Latin American dance groups, a special planetarium program focusing on bird constellations, healthy Latin American food, and more. Get outdoors, learn about migratory birds and how they connect the Americas, and participate in bird conservation.

Super Science Saturday
Where: 10am – 3pm
When: Saturday,
Admission: Free, but parking is $15
It’s Super Science Saturday at the Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center. Through demonstrations and hands-on activities, visitors of all ages will become immersed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics related to aviation and space exploration. This month, learn about Astronomy.

Team America Rocketry Challenge
Where: Great Meadow in the Plains, Va.
When: Saturday, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
The nation’s top 100 finalists in the world’s largest student rocket contest are competing for the national title, along with $60,000 in scholarships and a chance to compete in an international Flyoff in Paris this July. The top one hundred teams represent a diverse cross-section of Americans, with several all-girls and 4-H teams defying typical stereotypes and competing for the top-spot. Bring the family and cheer them on to share with your kids how fun science and rocketry can be! The Great Meadow in the Plains, Va. is located 5089 Old Tavern Road.

Potomac Overlook Open House
Where: Potomac Overlook Park
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
The park’s Open House is a springtime tradition, now in it’s 28th year. Enjoy a day full of fun activities and exhibits for all ages, including music, entertainment, food, community exhibits, games, a maypole dance, and much more.

Contemporary Portraiture Family Day
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Sunday, 2-5pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition 2013 with students from Ivymount Middle School in Rockville, Maryland. This special day includes an exhibition of artwork by Ivymount students, a musical performance by an Ivymount student, a tour of the the related exhibition, musical performances by Sean Lane and Bay Jazz, and hands-on art activities. Borrow a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum.

Farewell Birds of Paradise
Where: National Geographic Museum
When: Through Sunday
Admission: $11/adults, $5 ages 5-11, free for kids under 5
This weekend is your last chance to see Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution at the National Geographic Museum. The fantastic exhibit showcases the work of photographer Tim Laman and Ornithology scientist Edwin Scholes from their years-long partnership documenting the extraordinary avian species of New Guinea. Through the photographs and video and audio recordings from their 18 expeditions, the duo reveals the extravagant plumage, crazy courtship dances and bizarre behaviors of the birds, including 39 previously unknown species. Read more about the exhibit in this KFDC post.

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9 May, 2013

Gymboree is Coming to DC!

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I remember when Owen was a baby and started to achieve real mobility — walking, climbing, rolling, crawling — any means of movement that could take him where he wanted to go. That was when I began to look into play classes for him. And given that it was my first time ever doing that kind of research, my first instinct was to Google “Gymboree,” because even though I’d never been to one (the play space, that is; I’d done plenty of shopping at the store), that was the one name I’d heard of and associated with tumbling sessions for babies and toddlers. Kudos to them on branding.

So, I was surprised to learn there was no Gymboree here in the city. Sure, there were a few in the ‘burbs, in both Maryland and Virginia, but not a single one actually existed in the District. I guess I just figured big company, big city…surely the two had to connect. But, alas, they did not. We ended up finding another place — the only place in the city — for those play classes, and while we enjoyed it, I recall thinking that DC really needed more options.

Several years later, Marisa Flowers thought the same thing. The DC mom of a 2.5 year old wondered why she had to take her daughter out of the city for those kinds of activities and for parties so often. After taking her to Gymboree Play & Music for over a year in Maryland, she decided to explore becoming an owner/operator herself.

Fast forward many months, and she’s on her way to opening the first Gymboree in Washington, DC! With a convenient location right across from the Woodley Park Metro station, it’s slated to open in late June, offering a variety of classes for children from birth to 5 years old, as well as birthday parties.

There will be core Play & Learn classes for children from birth to 3 years old, School Skills classes for 3- and 4-year-olds, and Art and Music for ages 6 months to 5 years. And kids turning 1-4 years will be able to celebrate their birthdays there as well.

The opening date is still over a month away (and tentative) and class dates have not yet been set, but you can join the email list by emailing wdc@gymboreeclasses.com or check the website for updates on the opening date, class schedules, as well as info about grand opening events and specials.

Gymboree of Washington, DC, is located at 2639 Connecticut Avenue NW #113 in Woodley Park. Along with the convenience to Metro, the building also offers parking Monday – Friday (for a fee).

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by DC Kids Play, LLC, however, I only promote activities, events, and services that I sincerely enjoy and think would appeal to KFDC readers.


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Filed under Babies, Class, DC, Music, Preschoolers, Summer, Toddlers, Weekdays, Weekend

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