Here's a chance to see some of the most magnificent creatures on earth in their natural habitat! Whale watchers will search for humpback and fin whales off the coast of Virginia Beach. Each excursion is narrated by a trained Aquarium educator while experienced volunteers show whale artifacts and answer questions. A unique, exciting opportunity for entire families to experience.

George and Martha Washington welcomed thousands of guests to Mount Vernon.  How did Martha manage to feed so many in a world without refrigerators, microwaves or running water?

Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the Washingtons’ kitchen through the new exhibition.  This temporary exhibition explores how foods were prepared and presented at 18th-century Mount Vernon. Before appearing in dining rooms, crispy hoecakes, smokes hams, frozen ice creams, and other foods required the work of gardeners, housekeepers, cooks, butlers and waiters – all under Martha Washington’s careful supervision.  Follow food from the estate's field to the table.

Celebrate the life of American hero Harriet Tubman, the famous conductor of the Underground Railroad, abolitionist, humanitarian and Civil War hero. Her rescues of slaves inspired even greater numbers of escapes, assisted by her knowledge and connections with the vast network known as the Underground Railroad. Explore where she lived, worked and escaped to freedom on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

From the basement to the attic of Sotterley's 1703 Plantation House there are numerous nooks and crannies rarely seen by most people. Presented by Sotterley's Restoration Manager, this exclusive tour will reveal how the structure was built and what the various spaces tell us about the over 300 year history. Limited to 16 people per tour.

Learn about the process of making sap into syrup! The Maple Syrup event will be held in the William Houck (Lake) Area and feature continuous working demonstrations of the traditional maple syrup-making process. Kids can enjoy free games, stories, crafts, and live music in large heated tents. For an additional charge (cash only) a delicious hot pancake and sausage breakfast will be served from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm (or until sold out).
 

En guarde! Experience this unique living history program as you learn a skill all 18th-century gentleman must know - swordplay. The program includes reenactment of 18th-century swordplay and a display of 18th-century weapons. This popular family event is suitable for all ages and will include some audience participation as you practice your new-found talents. Price is $6 per person, ages 5 and up.

Hundreds of re-enactors join with the Virginia Army National Guard to present centuries of military history. A children’s parade will be held at noon Saturday, followed by a comparative artillery demonstration at noon Sunday and military pass-in-review at 3 p.m.

Learn about the process of making sap into syrup! The Maple Syrup event will be held in the William Houck (Lake) Area and feature continuous working demonstrations of the traditional maple syrup-making process. Kids can enjoy free games, stories, crafts, and live music in large heated tents. For an additional charge (cash only) a delicious hot pancake and sausage breakfast will be served from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm (or until sold out).

Visit the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary and discover curious objects, from poison bottles to dragon’s blood, and find out how they were used – and if they worked! During these hour-long tours, Project Enlightenment, McLean High School’s historical-reenactment society, will conduct 18th century scientific demonstrations which are certain to expand visitors’ knowledge about science in the 1700s.

Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates spring in Washington, DC, the gift of the cherry blossom trees, and the enduring friendship between the people of the United States and Japan. The Festival produces and coordinates daily events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Events are primarily free and open to the public. Paint the town pink!

Whether you like historic sites, cultural activities, natural resources and conservation, or  world-class dining and shopping, Maryland Day is for you! There is something for every member of the family to enjoy during this annual celebration of all things "Maryland".

Family Friendly House Tours, Audio Grounds tours, Special Children and Family interactive presentations at Sotterley Plantation, the only remaining Tidewater Plantation in Maryland,  built in 1703.

The Blossom Kite Festival, previously named the Smithsonian Kite Festival, is an annual event that is traditionally a part of the festivities at the National Cherry Blossom Festival on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Kite enthusiasts show off their stunt skills and compete for awards in over 36 categories including aerodynamics, beauty, box, and funniest.