By Patricia Hall, Fairfax Family Fun It was one small step for a man, a giant leap for mankind. Fifty years later, it is still an awe-inspiring image: a human walking on the moon. On July 20, 1969, humans walked on the moon for the first time, an event that transfixed not just the United States, but the whole world. It's time to celebrate this tremendous achievement, and there are fun opportunities to do that in Washington, DC. When Neil Continue Reading...
Smithsonian Folklife Festival brings the circus to the Mall!
The circus is coming to town! But this time, it’s not like anything you’ve seen: this “circus” actually is an exhibit of the annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which honors contemporary living cultural traditions and celebrates those who practice and sustain them. Produced annually by the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage in partnership with the National Park Service, the Festival has featured participants from all 50 Continue Reading...
Stargazing: Local planetariums and astronomy programs
Calling all stargazers! In honor of International Astronomy Day, here is a list of local and nearby places where you can enjoy all things “out of this world.” The following planetariums, observatories, museums, and organizations offer ongoing shows and exhibits plus special programs and events for astronomy fans of all ages. Check the individual, official websites for details and upcoming events (and also visit our Science and Technology Fun page Continue Reading...
International Space Station visible from Northern Virginia this week
By Patricia Hall, FairfaxFamilyFun.com The International Space Station (ISS) will be visible in the night sky over Northern Virginia this week, so this could be a great opportunity for everyone to see it and for your kids to learn more about this literally out-of-this-world facility. NASA has an online tool that lists when and where the ISS will be visible from any given area. On the same page, the site provides tips on how to spot the space Continue Reading...
Smithsonian conservation center celebrates Autumn Festival
By Patricia Hall, FairfaxFamilyFun.comDid you know that the Smithsonian Institution has a conservation center not too far from us here in Northern Virginia? The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal works to protect and promote little-known or endangered animals at the facility previously known as the National Zoo’s Conservation and Research Center. Because this is a research facility, usually it’s Continue Reading...
