Spring is on the horizon, and with it brings plenty of outdoor activities for your family, plus fun activities in-person and virtually from around Maryland.
Monthlong
Annapolis Oyster Fest
March 1–21 The Annapolis Oyster Fest is featuring the Maryland Oyster, a Maryland Seafood delicacy that goes perfectly with a craft beer. We will feature our area’s local restaurants that will serve oyster and Eastern Shore Brewing beer specials for both dine-in and carry-out. downtownannapolispartnership.org
Spy Academy & The Lost Treasure of Atlantis
Through May 23. Calling all spy cadets: our madcap team of expert spies needs you to help save the day and find the lost treasure of Atlantis! Full of surprises, fun, and memorable characters, each performance of Spy Academy takes a small number of families through a series of puzzles, codes, and challenges on a quest to recover the stolen Heart of the Dragon. Part online escape room, part interactive game, this creative and immersive theatrical experience is a live virtual event perfect for ages 5–10. $25 per household. imaginationstage.org
What Happened This week: News Quiz for Kids
Mondays. Join the Enoch Pratt Free Library on Mondays at 3:30 p.m. for a video quiz! There will be 5 multiple choice questions about current events, and kids can learn about good news, real news, even fake news, as well as cool online resources for knowledge and activities. Register to receive login details This program will be streamed on the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s Facebook page and recordings will be saved for on demand viewing.
Art in the Garden
Join us for this FREE art exhibition at Brookside Gardens’ Visitor Center from March 1 to 28, 10 am to 2 pm, featuring photography by Howard Clark; watercolors by Gloria T. Fischer, Linda Greigg, and Susan Shand; and oils by Rebecca Jackson. Brookside Gardens, Wheaton.
Storytime with the Chesapeake Children’s Museum
Join the CCM every Friday at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook, where they’ll introduce a new children’s book each week, occasionally incorporating songs or crafts to do at home.
FREE Admission to the Maryland Science Center for Maryland Pre—K – 12 Students
Through Winter, all Maryland students will be admitted free of charge on any day they are open. Must show proof of residency such as school ID or report card. Students can visit with friends or family, they do not have to be part of a school group. To receive free admission pick a date and sign up on the Maryland Science Center website.
Half–Price Friday Nights
Enjoy access to the National Aquarium’s award–winning exhibits for half the price of general admission during Half–Price Friday Nights. The program runs year–round, allowing you to spend Friday evening after 5 p.m. with the sharks, fish, puffins and other amazing creatures that call the Aquarium home. Tickets are available online or Friday evenings on–site. National Aquarium, Baltimore. aqua.org
BMA – Free Family Sundays at Home
Get craft ideas and downloadable art projects for free art–making workshops. Headed to the Museum? Grab a free art–making kit complete with step–by–step guides and art supplies on Sundays 2–5 p.m., and at the BMA’s branch location, BMA Lexington Market, on Fridays 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center Girls Who Code Club
Thursdays. Girls Who Code Club is a free extracurricular program for 6th–12th grade girls that teaches students about computer science in a fun and safe environment! Led by instructor Farin Wilson, this new club meets in the CAC Computer Lab on Thursdays, 1/21–6/10/21, 4–5 p.m. Please contact the CAC office at 410-636-6597 to apply.
Try It! Classes at CAC
These classes are designed to expose students to all facets of the arts without any commitment! Students ages 7–12 can try dance, ceramics, visual art and more, one week at a time. Classes are 4–5 p.m. Schedule is as follows: Mondays Steam Lab, Tuesdays Visual Arts, Wednesdays Dance, Thursdays Ceramics, and Steam Lab. Each workshop is $10. Students must pre–register and follow all Covid-19 safety protocols. Please email tyler@chesapeakearts.org to register. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
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National Cherry Blossom Festival
March 20–April 11. This year the festival will be presented in an innovative format that honors the tradition of the Festival, while prioritizing the health and safety of participants amidst the coronavirus pandemic.Check website for the full schedule. and prices. Various venues, Washington, D.C.
Yoga for Children, Teens and Adults with Autism
Saturdays. Enjoy weekly FREE Yoga from 3:30–4:30 p.m. every Saturday. Classes are led by instructors from the Yoga Center of Columbia. Participants and parents/guardians to pre-register with HCAS. This is a one-time registration. Once registered, you will be added to the list to receive, by email, the videoconference login and password for any future yoga classes. You will receive this information directly from the yoga instructors before each Saturday class. New registrants — register by Friday for your first Saturday class.
Monday, March 1
Frederick Restaurant Week
Visit downtown Frederick for some unique and fine dining options. Participating restaurants will offer diners multi-course meals at appetizing prices. Visit an old favorite or try something new, Frederick is full of delicious dining options! Reservations recommended.
Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers FREE online class
March 1—14. The class focuses on developing an awareness of the risks of drowning and how to minimize those risks, especially for young children. Parents and caregivers learn about the concepts of the circle of drowning prevention, water competency and the chain of drowning survival. It also provides guidance for applying water safety to common environments and situations where children are most at risk for drowning. Class is approximately 30 minutes. pre-register by emailing your name and email address to bayareacprllc@gmail.com for link. You will have a 2 week window to complete the class.
Wednesday, March 3
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World Wildlife Day
A virtual workshop celebrating World Wildlife Day! Discover & Play in an interactive workshop learning about wildlife from across the world, along with the ones that live at the Chesapeake Children’s Museum. $15. Ages 6—10 years. 3—4 p.m. Pre—registration required.
150 Years and Counting: Studying fish, fisheries, and more at the NOAA Fisheries Woods Hole Laboratory and Aquarium
March 3; 4-5 p.m. ET. The village of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, is home to an amazing collection of marine science institutions. We’ll introduce you to the NOAA Fisheries Woods Hole Lab, “walk” down main street, explore a NOAA research vessel, examine fish ear bones in our lab, and go behind the scenes at the Woods Hole Aquarium. Registration is free, but space is limited.
Behind the Curtain of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra
Hosted by the Anne Arundel County Public Library, ages 6 and up can virtually Join Music Director José—Luis Novo and members of the ASO via Zoom to learn how they have made the pivot to virtual performances during the pandemic. The show must go on! 2—2:45 p.m. Attendees will be able to ask questions through zoom chat in this virtual program.
Thursday, March 4
Simple Machines: Incline Planes
Chances are you use simple machines every day without even thinking about it. Explore what simple machines are, learn about their history, and examine some common uses.This week, join the Maryland Science Center in exploring incline planes by learning their history, discovering examples and making an inclined plane of your own! If you’d like to follow along, you’ll need a suitcase/backpack, preferably without wheels, and something heavy to put inside it (books or something) and also a board/folding table/something sturdy and flat. Follow along on Facebook Live at 1 p.m.
Ladies Night
Get creative and get your pottery on! Ages 16 and up. No cover! Bring the beverages of your choice and receive 25% off your pottery project, no glass fusing at this time. 5—10 p.m. Reservations recommended. The Claybakers, Annapolis.
Sea Squirts
This program invites children 18 months to 3 years, with an adult, to discover the museum together through music, stories, and special activities. Theme of the month: All About Boats. There will be story time and a carryout craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 15—20 minutes. Capacity is limited to 10 people per session. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Toddler Time
B&O’s award—winning Toddler Time program celebrates the excitement of learning through various sensory exploration activities. “How Kate Warne Saved President Lincoln” by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk Free with admission. 10:30 a.m. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore.
Ocean City Film Festival
March 4—11.Now virtual! Watch more than 80 independent films from 15 states and 11 countries, all from the comfort of your own home. Tickets range from $10 to $149.
Friday, March 5
Family Friday Planetarium Show: We are Aliens
Treat your family to a unique astronomy show with hands—on astronomy activities and a full-dome movie preceded by a family-friendly planetarium presentation in the new, upgraded planetarium. $8, ages 5 and up. 6:30–7:30 p.m. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
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Ramen Bowls with Taste Buds Kitchen
Ages 18 and up are welcome to this BYOB event where you will learn how to roast, chop, season and simmer our way to the perfect Ramen Bowl, complete with gently roasted chicken, fresh veggies, lots of noodles and a soft boiled egg! Complemented by traditional steamed buns and tangy pickled veggies, it’s the perfect umami experience! Bring your friends, your favorite wine, and come ready to learn something new! 6—8 p.m. Pricing starts at $120 for two participants. Taste Buds Kitchen, Chester.
Virtual ZOOmobile LIVE: ABC Mystery
Join The Maryland Zoo for a live, Virtual ZOOmobile Program! During this 30-minute presentation which begins at 11 a.m., Zoo Educators will lead an interactive activity designed for preschool-age children. Children will then have a chance to meet three of the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors! Register with an email address to receive an immediate registration confirmation with a link to join the class/event. If the Maryland Zoo closes due to inclement weather, the class will be cancelled and rescheduled for a later date.
Saturday, March 6
Virtual Teacher Workshop: Confederate Monuments and Memorialization
In recent years, monuments, songs, and other efforts to commemorate the Confederacy have come under intense scrutiny. Perspectives vary about the meaning of these symbols and their role in public spaces. During this free workshop open to all educators, the MCHC’s Education Department will highlight instructional resources and primary source material to support discussions on this topic. Noon—1 p.m.Registration is required. After registering for the program, attendees will receive an automated confirmation email with connection instructions. Hosted by the Maryland Center for History and Culture.
BMI Bull & Oyster Roast
Join emcee Tom Hall, host of WYPR’s Midday, for an evening of all things oyster as the BMI presents the annual Bull & Oyster Roast on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 7 p.m. This year, attending the BMI’s virtual Bull & Oyster Roast is free, but participants must register to receive the weblink for the online event. During the evening, Kate Livie will be speaking on the Chesapeake Bay oyster wars; Orchard Point Oyster Company will offer a virtual tour of a working oyster farm; and learn how to make an Oyster Pan Roast with Chef Dylan Salmon of Dylan’s Oyster Cellar. Auction items include pearl necklace, tickets to this summer’s BMW Championship at Caves Valley Golf Club, a ½ carat diamond, and a wagon chock full of cheer!
Register here—space is limited.
Slime Lab!
A wonderful, messy, slimy workshop for kids. Students will learn alternative techniques for making slime using household products to creatively design a hand—held manipulative. Experiment with the assorted ingredients to observe their chemical reactions. Fun science you can stretch! Ages 6 and up. 10:30 a.m. — 12 p.m. $30. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
Paws to Read
Children practice their emerging literacy skills by reading to Pipsqueak the dog and his handler Michelle. Open to ages 6 to 10. 10 a.m. — Noon. Call the Odenton Library at 410-222-6277 to register for a 15 minute appointment.
Sunday, March 7
Sensory Friendly Sunday at Chuck E Cheese
Hosted by Pathfinders for Autism, events include a trained and caring staff that work to ensure each guest has a fun—filled visit. We realize that the Chuck E. experience can be very stimulating for any child, so our mission is to create an event that allows ALL kids to be a kid. 8—9 a.m. Chuck E. Cheese, Glen Burnie.
FREE Admission in the National of Women in the Arts
This museum is dedicated to art by women and is located just three blocks from the White House. It is a stage for all kinds of arts and creations of women, empowering the artists, their works and achievements. The mission is to bring better representation and recognition for women artists, from different ages, nationalities, and fields of creation. Free admission is offered the first Sunday of every month from noon—5 p.m. Must pre-register for timed entry. National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, March 9
Parenting Workshop: Why Do Children Misbehave?— Looking at Needs
Join Dr. Debbie Wood for this informative zoom workshop about why children misbehave. 1:30—3 p.m. Pre—registration required.
Wednesday, March 10
School’s Out Canvas Workshop
Drop off your little Picasso’s for a morning of art! Children will learn step by step instruction on how to paint these whimsical clovers just in time for St. Patty’s Day, and enjoy a morning snack! 10 a.m. — 12 p.m. Due to limited studio space, seating is limited to 8, while social distancing. Masks are required to be worn while attending workshop. Children are welcome to bring their own snack. The Claybakers, Annapolis.
From eyes in the sky to action on the ground at NOAA’s Satellite Operations Facility
4–5 p.m. Get a rare chance to come inside “mission control” at NOAA’s state-of-the-art Satellite Operations Facility in Suitland, Maryland, where we command NOAA’s environmental satellites and collect the bulk of the data from Earth and space observations. Learn what it takes to receive massive amounts of information in this round-the-clock operation and see how NOAA satellites help search and rescue teams save lives and meteorologists forecast weather. Registration is free, but space is limited.
Thursday, March 11
Sea Squirts
This program invites children 18 months— 3 years, with an adult, to discover the museum together through music, stories, and special activities. March theme is All About Boats. There will be story time and a carryout craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 15—20 minutes. Capacity is limited to 10 people per session. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Parent & Me, Morning Spring Session
Hosted by the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. Enjoy time in nature and explore plants and animals in springtime: flowers, birds, frogs, planting seeds, and more. Lots of hands—on activities and fun! Dress for the weather as class is held outside. 10:30 a.m. Children ages 3—5 with parent. $30 per child. Registration required. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, Catonsville.
Virtual Charity Wine Dinner
Join Luna Blu for a virtual charity wine dinner from the safety of home. Pick up between 4 and 5 p.m. The zoom will begin at 6 p.m. Our speaker Bobby Stuckey, partner in Scarpetta Wines ran the wine program at The French Laundry, is a James Beard award winner & master sommelier. 10% of each dinner and 100% of our cash wine raffle will be donated to Annapolis Musicians Fund. $85 for dinner for one person, $140 for two.
Friday, March 12
Chocolate Lovers Baking Championship Camp
Campers will make chocolate recipes from A to Z in this tasty camp where we’ll put your culinary creativity to the test. There will be a mix of savory and sweet recipes – think Chocolate BBQ Sauce and Chocolate Bark — so everyone leaves happy as can be! All recipes are vegetarian. This camp is drop—off. Ages 4—8. 1 p.m. $45. Pre-registration required. Taste Buds Kitchen, Chester.
LEGO Engineering Challenge (Online)
Calling all LEGO fans! Each week watch a brief video to receive new challenges, then create and engineer designs with LEGO™ blocks. Register with an email address to receive a link to join the online class. Designed for ages 9 and up. Any age may register. This class has been pre recorded. 4 p.m. Hosted by Howard County Public Library.
Annapolis Greek Festival, Take-Out Festival
March 12–13. Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Head over to Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church on Riva Rd. in Annapolis to pick up lunch and dinner both days. And don’t forget your pastries!
Saturday, March 13
Breakfast with the Chimps at the Maryland Zoo
Buy tickets early as this events sells out! This VIP experience lets guests get up close and personal with their favorite animals and the keepers who care for them. The series includes a one-of-a-kind al fresco dining experience next to Zoo animals, special keeper chats, unlimited photo opportunities, and great takeaway gifts to remember the early morning experience. $60—$70 per person, under age 2 free. Includes Zoo admission. 8:30 — 10 a.m. Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
Family Makerspace Workshop: Kaleidoscopes
Family MakerSpace Workshops are back with even more opportunities to get creative as a family! These workshops will be held indoors in our STEAM Lab on the third floor of our main building. All ages are welcome, but caregivers must be present. Pre-registration through the CAC website is required and space is limited. Registration opens approximately 4 weeks prior to each workshop. Register for time slots between 10:15 and 11:45 a.m. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
Anacostia River Trail Tours
Sat. Mar. 13, 1-2 pm; $5/$7; Bike around Lake Artemesia and surrounding trails.
Bike or hike locations within the Anacostia River watershed and enjoy its natural resources. These fun and educational Naturalist-led tours will meet at the various starting locations above. Bikes and helmets provided for bike tours. Feel free to bring your own. Must be able to efficiently cycle 2 miles.
St. Patrick Day Flower Workshop
Includes arrangement and design instruction by Willow Oak Farm’s resident designer Linda, using flowers native to Ireland and inspired by a St, Paddy’s day theme. 11 a.m. Floral, instruction, and a rustic green container included in the $65 fee. Willow Oak Farm, Severn.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Virtually with the O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance
Enjoy watching and learning about numerous traditional and contemporary Irish Dances. Teachers will be available for a Q&A session at the end. Dancers of all ages and levels will perform throughout this fun virtual session. The Maryland location of the O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance is located in Owings, MD and offers classes to children (ages 4+) and adults. 11 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Hosted by the Anne Arundel County Public Library. pre-register for link.
Sunday, March 14
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Pi Day Celebration!
Celebrate the most mathematically delicious day of the year at the Maryland Science Center! Pi(e) Day is a celebration of the mathematical constant Pi (∏), a number used to calculate the circumference of a circle, and also a celebration of the sweet, circular baked dessert! Circle up for a well rounded day of endless hands-on fun. Plus, take a free slice of pie from Dangerously Delicious Pies for the road! Can’t make it to the Science Center for Pi(e) Day this year? Join the celebration online! 12—4 p.m. Event included with paid admission. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore.
Ales on the Rails: St. Patrick’s Day at the B&O
May the luck of the Irish be with you! Join us at the B&O on Sun, Mar. 14 for delicious festive food, an assortment of Irish beers, and live music from Irish guitarist Brendan Pelan. Event is free with Museum admission! BORail.events/StPatricksDay
Tuesday, March 16
Chesapeake Family Life Camp Fair
Join us online for our annual Camp Fair! This year you can chat personally with representatives from camps in their virtual booths, listen to speakers, and get special deals on camp registrations! More information on page 7 and at ChesapeakeFamily.com/campfair
History Time Virtual Story & Activity
Wednesdays March 17 & 24, 11–11:30 a.m. Sit back, relax, and let the Riversdale House Museum bring history to life in your very own living room. Designed for our littlest historians and their caregivers, log in each week for an interactive story about life in the past. Then, participate in an interactive activity or craft. De-stress and bond with others, virtually, as young learners build literacy skills through exposure to stories. Cost includes kit to be picked up in advance. Must have a device with the capabilities to use Microsoft Teams with video camera and microphone to engage. Ages 2–6 & caregivers, $6. Residents of Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties $8. Non-residents Advance registration required by March 11.
Wednesday, March 17
Dive into Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary at the Sanctuary Exploration Center
March 17; 4-5 p.m. ET. Dive into kelp forests, explore the deep sea, come face to face with a leatherback sea turtle and listen to the sounds of animals underwater, all while virtually touring the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz, California. Geared toward students in grades 2 through 8. Registration is free, but space is limited.
Thursday, March 18
Sea Squirts
This program invites children 18 months — 3 years, with an adult, to discover the museum together through music, stories, and special activities. Theme of the month: All About Boats. There will be story time and a carryout craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 15—20 minutes. Capacity is limited to 10 people per session. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Urban Birds and Bourbon Stirred: Creative Communities Making Baltimore Birdy
Virtual program hosted by the Irvine Nature Center. Discover the clever stories that reveal how Baltimore is becoming more “birdy!” From patio gardens and Audubon’s Habitat Canoe to pocket parks and public spaces, communities are growing our city for the birds. While people have long been the source of environmental problems, they are also full of creative solutions. Susie Creamer, director of Patterson Park Audubon Center, will discuss the surprising diversity of avian species and ground-level answers to keeping the birds in “Bird Town.” $20. Pre-registration required.
Toddler Time
B&O’s award-winning Toddler Time program celebrates the excitement of learning through various sensory exploration activities.”Pete the Cat’s Train Trip” by James Dean. Free with admission. 10:30 a.m. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore.
Friday, March 19
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Pride of Baltimore II
March 1921. In honor of Maryland Day, Maryland’s renowned tall ship, Pride of Baltimore ll will be docked at City Dock Susan Campbell Park for the weekend! Learn about the history of Baltimore Clippers and Pride ll, or hear what it’s like to sail a tall ship today. You’ll also learn about the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail and what is planned for Pride II, as a Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail ambassador.
Maryland Day Weekend
March 19–21. This year’s Maryland Day Celebration features new experiences, both in-person and virtual. The Celebration is a three-day weekend full of great family activities surrounding this year’s “Better Together” theme. There will be events throughout Annapolis at some 20 area locations. all Maryland Day events in Anne Arundel County are free or $1 admission.
You can tour downtown Annapolis virtually with Rise Up! – an African American tour by Janice Hayes-Williams, attend a virtual Gourd to Gavel event by Watermark Tours which explores local African American life from 1700 to the present, or participate in a virtual workshop led by historian Elinor Thompson about Brewer Hill Cemetery.Historic home and garden tours will also be a popular option this year at London Town and Gardens, Charles Carroll House, Hammond-Harwood House, and the Paca House and Gardens. . marylandday.org
Maryland Day Hike at Bacon Ridge
Celebrate Maryland Day Weekend outside in your local woods! Scenic Rivers’ staff are once again creating materials to help you explore for landscape clues on a self-guided hike of history-rich Bacon Ridge Natural Area in Crownsville. Following the trail guide and posted signs, you’ll learn how humans and nature have interacted to make the landscape we see today, all while enjoying the beautiful 1,000+ acre protected forest. All ages welcome, but be advised it is an unpaved trail through the woods. Dogs on leashes welcome. Length: 2-4 miles. Trail guides will be posted online for download by March 18, 2021. Trail signs will be posted by March 19, 2021.
Saturday, March 20
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St. Michaels ChocolateFest
The 3rd Annual St. Michaels ChocolateFest Chocolate Crawl will take place on the first day of Spring on Saturday March 20, 2021. The Chocolate Crawl will be slightly different this year. Venues will provide “to-go” tasting samples to enjoy outside (if the venue is located inside). Masks must be worn indoors and in town due to Town of St. Michaels mandates. Chocolate Crawl tickets are available for PRE-PURCHASE ONLY, NO DAY OF EVENT SALES! LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE! SALES END MARCH 15th. $10. Choose from thousands of amazing chocolate concoctions, desserts and candies at participating venues.
Anacostia River Trail Tours
Sat. Mar. 20; 1-2 pm; $3/$4; Hike the natural trails of Fairland Regional Park. Discovery tools available. These fun and educational Naturalist-led tours will meet at the various starting locations above. Bikes and helmets provided for bike tours. Feel free to bring your own. Must be able to efficiently cycle 2 miles.
Jr. Naturalist — Signs of Spring
During this drop-off program, kids learn from Robinson Nature Center staff through experiments, demos and fun activities. Signs of Spring: Learn about the natural phenomena – including budding plants and emerging baby animals that make spring special in Maryland! Take-home a badge at the end of each program. 3—4 p.m. $10, ages 6—10 years. Pre-registration required. Robinson Nature Center, Ellicott City.
Annapolis Restaurant Week
March 20–28. Participating Annapolis restaurants offer prix fixe menus for you to enjoy. You can indulge in a two-course breakfast, two-course lunch or three-course dinner. Some restaurants even have bonus specials! Reservations are recommended as this is a popular week to dine out.
Sunday, March 21
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ArtFest
ArtFest is a celebration of the arts at Maryland hall. Enjoy outdoor activities with inspiring Teaching Artists, an ArtReach Film Festival celebrating the diverse stories of our community created by our talented youth and art exhibitions. 1—4 p.m. Free. Maryland Hall, Annapolis.
$2 Community Day at Port Discovery
Explore Port Discovery for just $2 per person on Sunday, March 21! Plan ahead – capacity is limited. Guests are limited to a total of 4 adults, 4 children per reservation on $2 Community Day. Look forward to unique activities including Shadow Puppet Theater (where you can make your own shadow puppet play), Shadow Puppet Play Pals (where you can create paper dolls and puppets), and Slinky Zone (where you can show off your Slinky™ skills using stairs, ramps, and a built-in Slinky racing wall!)
Nature Walk of the Underground Railroad
Join the staff of the Chesapeake Children’s Museum to learn how nature aided in escapes from slavery in Maryland’s history. 1 p.m. $1 per person. Pre-registration requested. Chesapeake Children’s Museum, Annapolis.
Discovery Stage Series featuring Silly Goose & Val
The Discovery Stage Series at Port Discovery will take place via Zoom in 2021! Children and adults alike will get in on the fun and learning in this humorous, fast-paced musical adventure featuring puppets, ventriloquism, dancing, and singing! Free. Pre-registration is required.
Tuesday, March 23
Shrek the Musical
March 23—June 13. Let your freak flag fly with everyone’s favorite Ogre! In a far away kingdom an unlikely hero finds himself on a life—changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short—tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a hero…and his name is SHREK. $49.50—$65. Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia.
Wednesday, March 24
Create Your Own Puppets for Family Storytime
Teaching and Performing Artist Penny Russell will show older kids and adults how to create simple puppets and teach you how to use them over Zoom or FaceTime to delight your faraway younger relatives. Register for this virtual program to reserve a spot in this one—hour class and pick up a DIY puppet kit at Glen Burnie Library with all the materials you’ll need to create fun puppets and make family storytime even more fun! pre-register for link. Hosted by the Anne Arundel County Public Library.
NOAA’s Nose Knows: A day in the life of a Seafood Inspector
March 24; 4–5 p.m. ET
What does fresh, high-quality, safe-to-eat fish smell like? How does fish make its way from the ocean to your dinner plate? Come with us as we follow some of your favorite seafood off a fishing boat, into a processing facility and through the hands of a NOAA Seafood Inspector. Help us inspect seafood live from NOAA’s inspection laboratory in Long Beach, California, and learn some tips and tricks for inspecting your dinner, too!
Thursday, March 25
Sea Squirts
This program invites children 18 months to 3 years, with an adult, to discover the museum together through music, stories, and special activities. Theme of the month: All About Boats. There will be story time and a carryout craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 15—20 minutes. Capacity is limited to 10 people per session. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Parent & Me, Morning Spring Session
Hosted by the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. Enjoy time in nature and explore plants and animals in springtime: flowers, birds, frogs, planting seeds, and more. Lots of hands-on activities and fun! Dress for the weather as class is held outside. 10:30 a.m. Children ages 3—5 with parent. $30 per child. Registration required. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, Catonsville.
Friday, March 26
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PEEPshow
March 26–April 5.
Check out hundreds of wacky marshmallow masterpieces created by local artists, families, businesses, and community groups. This year’s PEEPshow will be on display at the TownMall of Westminster. Admission is FREE! Don’t forget that while at the PEEPshow you can purchase vote chips to vote for your favorite Peeps creation or vote online during the event. Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday, March 27
All Aboard the Bunny Train
March 27–28. Visit with the Bunny on the Walkersville Southern Railroad train this weekend! The bunny will give each child an Easter surprise and the kids will enjoy a cool train ride through Western Maryland. Adults $18, Seniors $17, Children 2 -12 $14. Rain or Shine! Reservations Required.
Anacostia River Trail Tours
Sat. Mar. 27; 1–2 pm; $5/$7; Bike from Bladensburg Waterfront to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.Bike or hike locations within the Anacostia River watershed and enjoy its natural resources. These fun and educational Naturalist-led tours will meet at the various starting locations above. Bikes and helmets provided for bike tours. Feel free to bring your own. Must be able to efficiently cycle 2 miles.
Family Makerspace Workshop: Bug Hotels
Family MakerSpace Workshops are back with even more opportunities to get creative as a family! These workshops will be held indoors in our STEAM Lab on the third floor of our main building. All ages are welcome, but caregivers must be present. Pre-registration through the CAC website is required and space is limited. Registration opens approximately 4 weeks prior to each workshop. Register for time slots between 10:15 and 11:45 a.m. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
Breakfast with the Penguins at the Maryland Zoo
Buy tickets early as this event sells out! This VIP experience lets guests get up close and personal with their favorite animals and the keepers who care for them. The series includes al fresco dining experience next to Zoo animals, special keeper chats, unlimited photo opportunities, and great takeaway gifts to remember the early morning experience. $60—$70 per person, under age 2 free. Includes Zoo admission. 8:30 — 10 a.m. Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
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OtterMania!
Join the Calvert Marine Museum to celebrate this mischievous and inquisitive mammal! Dance “the Swim” with our otter mascots, and learn otterly terrific facts. All day. Museum admission required. If you cannot make it, be sure to check out the museum’s OtterCam for a live-stream of these playful critters, not just during OtterMania, but anytime! Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Virtual Pet Show and Tell
Do you have a pet that has special talents? Showcase your pet at our first virtual Pet Show & Tell. This event is open to all ages – kids, teens and adults. 10:30 — 11:30 a.m. pre-register for link. Hosted by the Edgewater Library.
Sunday, March 28
Spring Has Sprung Trail Adventure and Egg Hunt
Enjoy spring—themed activities, games or fun, nature interpretation stations. End your adventure with an egg hunt in our Nature Place. All participants must register in advance for a time slot, times will be between 9 a.m and 2:30 pm. $7—$10. Ages 4 and up. No online registration, call 410-313-0400 to reserve your spots. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
Monday, March 29
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Egg Hunt Week
March 29—April 2. The week leading up to Easter Sunday, families will have the opportunity to book a private Easter Egg Hunt at the Hammond—Harwood House! This experience will include a hunt for wooden Easter eggs in the garden of the mansion. Families will have the opportunity to paint and keep the wooden eggs using pictures of collection items with animal designs for inspiration. Pre-registration required for a timed entry. Price $10 per child includes the cost of supplies. Hammond Harwood House, Annapolis.
Tuesday, March 30
A Dive Into Daily Life at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center’s Kodiak Lab
March 30; 3-4 p.m. ET. Come along for a virtual tour of the NOAA Fisheries Alaska Fisheries Science Center’s lab in Kodiak, Alaska! Visit our touch tank and meet our resident critters. Dive into Alaska waters with our dive operations research team! We’ll take a look at juvenile red king crab as we investigate the impacts of ocean acidification. Geared toward students in grades 2 through 8, and they’re perfect for classrooms and families. Registration is free, but space is limited.
Wednesday, March 31
Animal Show—All About Raptors
Meet and learn about the center’s live birds of prey. Learn about their behavior, habitat, what they eat and how they hunt. See these creatures up close and personal. This program will take place at the Watkins Nature Center’s outdoor amphitheater. Dress appropriately for the weather. 10—11 a.m. $3-$4. Ages 2 and up. pre-register by March 29 by calling 301-699-2255. Watkins Nature Center, Upper Marlboro.
Science in the Sky: How NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center supports research from 500 to 45,000 feet
March 31; 4-5 p.m. ET. Want to fly with NOAA? NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center in Lakeland, Florida, operates and maintains 10 specialized aircraft to support NOAA research. Come learn about our team of NOAA Corps officers and staff who fly, instrument, repair, and support our crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Walk along the hangar floor, visit our calibration lab and metal shop, and see our aircraft up close! Geared toward students in grades 2 through 8, and they’re perfect for classrooms and families. Registration is free, but space is limited.