Take a break from city life and spend this long weekend skiing (we list our favorite slopes here) or get cozy at one of these winter wineries for a family-friendly day trip. In celebration of MLK Day on Mon., carve out some time to reflect on the great civil rights leader with these DC library events or step into history by standing on the very step Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech from. Scroll down for more ways to fill your holiday weekend with at-home and virtual events.
photo: iStock
Beethoven Symphonies Abstracted
To accompany the National Symphony Orchestra’s Beethoven & American Masters concert series, author and illustrator Mo Willems presents Beethoven Symphonies Abstracted, an exhibition of nine large-scale, painted abstractions inspired by the music and genius of Beethoven. The nine works will be on display from January 8–March 20 in the Hall of Nations during the Center’s public operating hours. The works can also be viewed online here. Fri.-Sun. Event details.
Maple Sugaring
Ever wonder how maple syrup is made? From steel buckets and oxen-drawn wagons to the advanced technology used today, maple syrup production has changed considerably over time. But one thing has remained constant – maple trees and their sweet sap. Join Steve to learn about the history, production, and biology of maple sugaring. He’ll also discuss the maples found in the collections of the U.S. Botanic Garden and the U.S. National Arboretum. Fri. Event details.
Advocate Speech Contest
Take a moment to listen (or read) MLK’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech here. After soaking in the power of this great orator’s words, consider issues that move you to write your own speech in hopes of moving others. In celebration of MLK Day, Takoma Park Library is challenging all kids 5-19 to create a speech where you highlight an issue or cause that is important to you. Activity details.
Collaborative Poster Project
This self-directed project shows the power of coming together! Head to Shepherd Park Library to get a small “puzzle piece” of a portrait to color at home. Decorate your section of this collaborative poster as you see fit and return your segment to the library by the end of Jan. These pieces will be glued together to create one giant portrait of Martin Luther King Jr. Your small piece is needed for the greater work! Activity details.
Letters to Community Helpers
Pen a letter of appreciate to your favorite local hero. Share your heartfelt thanks with your favorite teacher, a local emergency worker or your neighborhood bus driver. These letters are being collected by Northeast Library in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s commitment to service. Drop your letter off at the designated mailbox by Jan. 16 to share words of kindness with community helpers. These letters (artwork is also welcome!) will be on display before being delivered. Activity details.
“I Have a Dream” Poetry Contest
In honor of MLK Day, Petworth Library is hosting a poetry and essay contest where kids can wax poetic about their vision for a better world. Kids 5-19 are invited to participate in this contest, simply drop your entry off by Jan. 20 (or email it to the library). Activity details.
—Meghan Yudes Meyers
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