DC readers…What are you doing this weekend? There’s always so much to choose from in our area that the problem is selecting the things that are just right for your family! Here are some of the free things in Washington, D.C. that we’re looking forward to doing this weekend and before the month ends!
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What: The Library of Congress National Book Festival
Where: The National Mall
When: Saturday and Sunday
The scoop: We’re regulars and have our eye on hearing favorite authors, such as Jeff Kinney (Diary of a Wimpy Kid), Mary Pope Osborne (Magic Tree House), Patricia Polacco, R.L. Stine, Maggie Stiefvater, and so many more read from their books. We’ll be bringing along our personal copies of the books we love and waiting in line for author autographs.
Best way to get there: Metro: Smithsonian and Federal Center SW on the Blue and Orange lines or L’Enfant Plaza and Archives/Navy Memorial on the Yellow and Green lines
Best for ages: The whole family. There’s something for all ages and every kind of reader since many different genres are highlighted at the Book Fest. Younger kids will love the activities in the PBS tent and a chance to get their photos taken with characters from their favorite shows.
Bring: Snacks, water, camera, and favorite copies of your books
What: The Art of Video Games
Where: American Art Museum, 3rd Floor
When: Until September 30
The scoop: If you haven’t been yet or would like to return before the exhibit ends on at the end of the month, this hands on interactive exhibit is all about the history of video gaming and is fun for kids and adults alike. From classics like Pac Man to consoles of today, this exhibit allows adults to relive their childhood by playing games from their youth while waxing nostalgic about strategy. Kids who are patient enough to wait in line get a couple of minutes to play games like Super Mario Brothers, The Secret of Monkey Island, Myst, and PacMan. Old school and history making all at the same time!
Best way to get there: Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown on the Red Line
Best for ages: 6+
Bring: Patience. Those lines for the games can be long. And some allowance money for souveniers in the gift shop. Since the exhibit ends at the end of the month, many exhibit related items have been marked down.
Image courtesy of NationalZoo via Flickr
What: Cheetah Cubs
Where: The National Zoo
When: 11 am and 1 pm, for about an hour
The scoop: Awww cheetahs! These two cubs are growing up fast! Born on April 23, it’s fun to wander by during viewing hours to catch them frolicking or even sleeping. If you’re hoping to see the new panda born on September 17, the best way to see it is via webcam as Mei Xiang gets used to being a new mother.
Best way to get there: Metro: Woodley Park on the Red Line. Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) members get free parking with zoo membership.
Bring: FONZ membership zoo card for free parking and free Zookies (zoo cookies) available at the information desks by Asia Trail and the other by the ice cream vending machines across from the entrance to Kids’ Farm.
What are your plans for the weekend? Whatever you do, have a great one!
No compensation was received for this post. We always visited the PBS tent at the National Book Fest even before I became a PBS VIP ambassador! FONZ membership is personally paid for every year.
