Families across the DC area can make the most of the long weekend with a lineup that blends creativity, culture and meaningful moments together. From Jan. 16–19, the region comes alive with immersive art experiences, hands-on museum programs, outdoor adventures and community gatherings designed for all ages. Whether you’re stepping inside an iconic landmark transformed by light and sound, heading outdoors for a winter hike or settling in for storytime, there are plenty of ways to spend time together and try something new.
As you plan your weekend, don’t miss the January digital edition of Washington Parent, now available and free to read. The issue features winter family guides, local stories and ideas to help families make the most of January. Looking ahead, we’re also excited to share details about four Washington Parent Camp & Family Fitness Fairs happening in February, where families can explore summer camps, enrichment programs and fitness options all in one place.
For a full list of upcoming events, visit our DC Kids Events calendar
January 16
Campfire Fridays
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Location: Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Blvd., Springfield, Va.
Families are invited to gather around the campfire for an evening of outdoor fun and learning. The program includes nature walks, hands-on activities and live animal presentations that explore different themes, which vary by date. S’mores are included. Children must attend with a registered adult. Cost is $12 per person. Registration required.
Storytime National Postal Museum
- Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.
- Location: National Postal Museum, Meet in the Historic Lobby, Washington, D.C.
Stamp your calendar for Storytime at the Postal Museum. Families are invited to drop in for a weekly program featuring a fresh story, a short stroll through the museum, hands-on postal play and more. Children will explore mail and the many ways it connects people, places and big ideas. Stop by anytime—whether families stay for one activity or the full session, the program is designed to delight young visitors.
January 16-17
I Have a Dream Tree
- Location: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library – Central Library, 901 G St. NW, Washington, D.C.
- Time: All Day
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, families are invited to take part in the “I Have a Dream” Tree, an interactive community display rooted in hope, justice and collective imagination. Children and caregivers can reflect on Dr. King’s message and contribute their own dreams for a better future as part of this meaningful, hands-on experience.
January 16-18
Time by Luxmuralis
- Time: 6:00–8:15 p.m.
- Location: Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.
Step into Time, an immersive light and sound experience by UK-based art collective Luxmuralis, making its Washington, D.C., debut inside Washington National Cathedral. Through large-scale projections, original music and narrative storytelling, families can explore humanity’s relationship with time — from the dawn of the universe to the birth of Earth — all within one of the city’s most iconic spaces. Additional dates run January 16–18, with extended times on the weekend. General admission and VIP tickets available.
January 17
Pop-up Storytime
- Time: 11:00–11:30 a.m.
- Location: Reston Regional Library, Children’s Department, Reston, Va.
Families are invited to enjoy a Saturday morning at the library with stories and songs led by Reston Youth Services staff. The program is open to all ages, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Potomac Cleanup for MLK Jr. Day
- Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
- Location: Busboys and Poets–Anacostia, 2004 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE, Washington, D.C.
- Price: Free
Join Potomac Conservancy and Black Girl Environmentalist for a Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service trash cleanup at Anacostia Park. Families are invited to give back to the community while helping protect the Potomac River and local waterways. Volunteers will work together to remove trash and learn how to create a safer, healthier outdoor environment, honoring Dr. King’s legacy through service. Free admission.
Hill Family Biking – Ride to Ice Skating
- Time: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
- Location: Ride starts at Maury Elementary, 12th Place NE, Washington, D.C.
Families are invited to bundle up and join Hill Family Biking for a 3.5-mile winter bike ride to Canal Park for ice skating. The ride begins at Maury Elementary at 11 a.m. and is open to all ages looking to enjoy a seasonal outdoor adventure. Before the 12 p.m. skate session, participants can warm up with free hot chocolate and treats from Le Dinette DC. A nonprofit group rate of $13 per skater includes skating and skate rental. No advance purchase required. Free to participate in the ride.
January 17-18
Cub Corner
- Time: 10:30–11:30 a.m.
- Location: College Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Corporal Frank Scott Drive, College Park, Md.
Recommended for ages 5–8. Join the museum for a special reading of Almost Underwear by local teacher and author Jonathan Roth, who will appear in person. After the story, kids can create their own canvas or fabric pals inspired by the book. Families can stay after to meet the author and have books signed. Free with museum admission. Register in advance via pgparksdirect.com (Activity Code: 20658-115H). Walk-in spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis.
January 18
SARAU DE SAMBA / BRAZILIAN SAMBA GATHERING
- Time: 2:00–5:00 p.m.
- Location: Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md.
Set in historic Glen Echo Park and co-presented by EducArte and the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts & Culture, Sarau de Samba features a lively ensemble of musicians and dancers performing a wide range of samba styles, from Golden Age classics and choro to modern pagode and high-energy carnival rhythms.
More than a performance, the event invites the audience to join in — dancing, singing and even playing instruments alongside the professionals. Short beginner dance lessons are included during each session. No partner or instruments are required. Open to all skill levels and all ages.
“Vem Pra Perto da Gente Sambar!” (“Come Samba With Us!”) — Luiz Carlos Da Vila
Girl Scouts- Build Your Story
- Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Location: National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW, Washington, D.C.
Junior Girl Scouts and Cadettes are invited to create their own books and original stories inspired by the exhibition Building Stories. Participants will explore the creative process behind book design during a guided look at the exhibit, then bind, design and write their own books. Juniors will complete the requirements for the Scribe badge, and Cadettes will complete the Book Artist badge requirements by the end of the program.
January 19
Remember the Dream: A Day Honoring Dr. King
- Time: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Location: National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.
Families are invited to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with free drop-in activities throughout the museum. Highlights include hands-on crafts, a service project, balloon art, and a sing-along celebration marking Dr. King’s birthday. Visitors can explore the museum’s new exhibition on HBCUs, receive a personalized poem from the Typewriter Poets, and enjoy live musical performances in Heritage Hall celebrating Dr. King’s life and impact.
2026 MLK Day of Service
- Time: 9 a.m.–noon
- Location: Northern Virginia Community College, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, Va.
Families, youth and community members are invited to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through hands-on service. Hosted by Volunteer Fairfax, this event brings participants together to work on projects that support local nonprofits and neighbors across Northern Virginia. It’s a meaningful way for kids and adults to give back while learning the value of community service.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day March for Unity and Freedom
- Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Location: Tinner Hill Civil Rights Monument, 455 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church, Va.
Community members of all ages are invited to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy during this annual march and program focused on unity, justice and nonviolent action. The day begins with sign-making at 10 a.m., followed by the Unity March at 11 a.m., which departs from the Tinner Hill Civil Rights Monument and concludes at The Falls Church. A community program featuring speakers, performances and reflections will take place from noon to 3 p.m., highlighting civil rights and community building.
