Presidents’ Day Fun in Northern Virginia

By Patricia Hall, FairfaxFamilyFun.com

President’s Day is coming up soon! Monday, February 19, is a federal holiday and a day off from school. Make it a day of family fun AND still keep the kids learning by attending some of these events that celebrate the life of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and generally all United States presidents and American history. Best of all, just about all of these events are free! Our list also includes some regular day-off fun. Scroll below to see details, and check back often as the date gets closer and we add more events!

Presidents’ Day weekend events 2018

Sat.-Mon., Feb. 17-19:  George Washington’s Birthday at Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon celebrates what would be George Washington’s 286th birthday with a weekend full of special events, featuring costumed characters, crafts, storytelling, dance demonstrations, and birthday cake, included with regular admission. And on Monday, February 19,  gates open early at 8 a.m. for an all-day birthday celebration with free admission.

Sun., Feb 18: Revolutionary War Reenactment at Fort Ward Park
Historic camp and tactical demonstrations throughout the day (10 am to 3 pm), including a Revolutionary War skirmish (at 2 pm) between the Redcoats and the Colonial Army.  The free event is part of the City of Alexandria George Washington Birthday celebration.

Sun., Feb. 18:  Presidents’ Day Celebration in Clarendon
Celebrate Presidents’ Day with a few of them:  The Washington Nationals Presidents take over Market Common Clarendon! Take a selfie with George, Tom, Abe, and Teddy from the Washington Nationals, and then watch them race around The Loop at 3 p.m. There will be a photo booth with presidential props, complimentary hot cocoa from Nicecream, and kids under 13 can spin our prize wheel to win a paper Lincoln ($5 bill).  The free event takes place on Sunday, February 18, from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

Monday, Feb. 19, events (Presidents’ Day holiday)
George Washington’s Birthday at Mount Vernon 
Special activities and free admission for all TODAY only. Mingle with costumed characters, meet General Washington himself, and enjoy special activities such as storytimes, a wreathlaying ceremony, and more. Gates open early today at 8 am. Note:  This is one of the most popular days to visit Mount Vernon; the estate will probably be at capacity, so arrive early!

George Washington Birthday Parade and Celebration
The annual parade through Old Town Alexandria, one of the biggest events in the City of Alexandria, is part of a larger celebration that includes George Washington and veterans’ memorial ceremonies, free open houses of historic homes, and more. The parade itself is 1-3 pm.

Rocknoceros show in Herndon 
Enjoy the school day off with the fun sounds of Rocknoceros!  Coach, Willie Bob, and Boogie Woogie Bennie perform all your favorite songs at the Herndon Community Center. This show is best for kids ages 1-10. Tickets are $4 in advance or $5 at the door.  Register online for activity code 348000.

Presidents’ Day at Kid Junction 
On any day, young kids can enjoy the play rooms, climbing structures, music room, and arcade that Kid Junction offers. On Presidents’ Day, this large indoor playground celebrates with additional fun including raffles, giveaways, ice cream, and popcorn. The fun takes place 10 am to 6 pm; regular admission fees apply.

Presidents’ Day at Monkey Joe’s Dulles
Have a presidentially good time in the jungle on Monday, February 19th! This fun indoor playground has a fun variety of huge inflatables (with mazes and slides), a separate tot area, a small arcade, and a cafe. On Presidents’ Day, there will be prizes and giveaways throughout the day.  Monkey Joe’s will be open 10 am to 7 pm.

 

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