Here is our roundup of February family fun in Maryland, with a few date night ideas for the adults thrown in to celebrate Valentine’s Day all month long!
Ongoing Events
Maryland Hall/BLM Exhibit Opening: The Art of Activism
Through February 27. Wednesdays and Fridays 3:30pm – 6:30pm. See the work of Maryland–based Black artists who created Black Lives Matter banners that encapsulate activism and social justice. The banners can be seen on the steps of Maryland Hall the exterior of Banneker–Douglass Museum. Maryland Hall, Annapolis.
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.
Storytime Saturday
A new story and craft each Saturday morning in February to celebrate African– American History Month at the Benjamin Banneker Museum. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ages 3–7. $3/per child; accompanying adult(s) – free. Register by email: [email protected]. Benjamin Banneker Museum, Catonsville.
Snow Queen at Home
Through Feb. 28, 2021. In the Imagination Stage adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s famous winter fairy tale, a powerful friendship is put to the test as four narrators bring to life the story of Gerda and Kai, life–long best friends whose relationship is broken by the unfeeling Snow Queen. Imagination abounds in this magical story of courage, wit, and unshakable resilience! Best for ages 5+. Ticket purchase includes a special 25–minute live interactive prequel story, where kids will be able to join characters from the story of The Snow Queen on Zoom on a pre–show journey.
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.
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 [email protected] to register. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park. chesapeakearts.org
2021 Winter Lecture Series
The lecture series will be held virtually on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. from January 7 to February 25. Each will feature engaging speakers on eight diverse topics including maritime history, local history, science and maritime art. Pre-registration required. $10. First Mate members and above will receive complimentary coupon code. Annapolis Maritime Museum, Annapolis.
Friday STEM Workshops at the Maryland Science Center
Finish up the school week with the best from our Workshop Wednesday Programs, now on Fridays! Children will work together during in-person STEM workshops and learn with other students in a hands-on classroom setting with educators here at MSC. Our engaging workshops are for students ages 5-7. Friday Workshops are $19.95 per participant and include admission to the science center’s exhibit halls.
Monday, February 1
School’s Out Canvas Workshop- Loves “truck”
A canvas workshop for ages 6+! Anne Arundel County Public School has the day off so drop off your little Picasso’s for a morning of art! Children will enjoy this step by step instruction on how to paint this Valentine’s Canvas and enjoy a morning snack! Due to limited studio space, seating is limited to 8, while social distancing. Masks are required to be worn while attending the workshop. 10 a.m.–noon. $30. The Clay Bakers, Annapolis.
Wednesday, February 3
Virtual Read–Aloud: Kate’s Light by Elizabeth Spires
Tune in at 11 a.m. when Elizabeth Spires will read and answer your questions about her picture book, Kate’s Light, sharing the true story of Katherine Walker, who lived at Robbins Reef for 33 years. She was one of the first women on the Eastern Seaboard to be put in charge of an offshore lighthouse. Kate saved more than 50 lives during her years at Robbins Reef. By the time she reified in 1919 at the age of 71, Kate had become a legend to the ships and sailors passing by. Free. Hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Email [email protected] to register.
Thursday, February 4
Black Hill Nature Program Loosey Goosey Virtual Trivia
Are you a whiz at waterfowl, or do you just like a nice competitive game of trivia? Then join the fun and put your waterfowl know–how to the test! One family of lucky ducks will be crowned the winner and receive a prize! Even if you don’t win, you’ll learn some fun facts and get to know some of our local ducks and geese. So, brush up on the buffleheads and review those ring–necks and join us for a family–friendly evening of fun! 7–8 p.m. Free. Register one adult per family.
Ladies Night at The Clay Bakers
Get together with your besties and let your creative side shine! From 5-10 p.m. it’s Ladies Night for 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 . Reservations recommended. The Clay Bakers, 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. 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 month’s theme is Jellyfish. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Friday, February 5
Friday Late Night Planetarium Show: Passport to the Universe
Grab a friend or your significant other for an out–of–this–world Friday night experience of top–notch astronomy and entertainment at the Robinson Nature Center. This program is held in the center’s state–of–the–art digital planetarium and features a full–dome movie preceded by an adult–level planetarium presentation about current happenings in our night sky and space science. $8 per person. Call 410–313–0400 to reverse your tickets, limited capacity so reserve early!
The Secrets of Water
Discover organisms that live in different water habitats. Experiment to find out how water organisms obtain oxygen and how to improve water quality. Children ages 5 to 7 will work together during this in–person STEM workshop and learn with other students in a hands–on classroom setting with educators at the Maryland Science Center. The 45 minute session begins at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $19.95 per participant and includes admission to the science center’s exhibit halls. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore.
Sci–Fi Friday: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
Fun for the big kids (adults!) Each Friday the Maryland Science Center picks a sci–fi movie you can stream and pair it with a drink and an activity! How to participate: Select Going on the event Facebook page. You’ll start receiving notifications about posts when we share them—trivia, quizzes, fun facts and more. On Friday at 7 pm, the science center will share a video explaining a science activity inspired by the film and a recipe for a themed cocktail here on the event page. After that, it’s time to grab the popcorn, fix yourself a drink, and enjoy the movie! Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back is available on Disney + or rent on Amazon Prime.
Saturday, February 6
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. Odenton Library, Odenton.
Virtual Wine Pairing for Haiti
Join Mortel High Hopes for Haiti Foundation virtually on Zoom on Saturday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. as Certified Sommelier, Carrie Elliott Reese guides you through an evening of delicious wine pairings from the comfort of your own home, all to benefit the children of Haiti! Tickets are $50/person and include a box with individual portions of each of the 4 wines with its cheese or chocolate pairing. The day–of the event, you will pick up your box from one of their convenient distribution locations around PA & MD and the Zoom link will be sent the week of the event.
STEAM Team: Playing with Natural Forces
Bring your little mariner to CBMM to join their STEAM Team! Each week, STEAM Team participants will join an experienced educator in a hands–on exploration that incorporates STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) with the arts. $15 per class, discount for signing up for all four sessions. Two sessions each day: 10 a.m.–noon for ages 4–6; 1–3 p.m. for ages 7–9. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels.
Oatmeal Cream Pies
Get ready for the perfect combination of fruity and sweet with our delicious Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies! With fresh apple, a burst of cinnamon, and ooey gooey cream cheese icing filling, these delicious cookie sandwiches are great any time of day! Bring your sweet tooth to this cooking class designed for children ages 2 to 8. $30. 11 a.m. – noon. This class is designed for kids and parents to cook together. Register for the number of children, a spot for the caregiver is included in the price. TasteBuds Kitchen, Chester.
Monday, February 8
Queen Anne County Library Take Home Kit: Lavender Bath Salts
Using a few simple ingredients, learn how to make homemade lavender bath salts to pamper yourself at home. Supplies will be provided by the library. For adults and interested teens. When registering for this event please indicate which library branch, Centreville or Kent Island, you prefer to pick your kit up from. You will be notified when your kit is ready for pickup at your requested branch. All kits will be ready for pickup by the program date. Video tutorials will be posted to the Queen Anne’s County Library Facebook and YouTube channels the morning of the program event. Each kit will also contain a printed instruction sheet with directions on finding the video tutorials.
Tuesday, February 9
Black Hill Nature Program Virtual Just Ducky Crafty Hour
Celebrate waterfowl this month by getting crafty together from home. A list of items needed, and templates will be provided in an email prior to the event date. This craft will be for older kids and adults, as sharp scissors are needed. Free. 6–7 p.m.
Wednesday, February 10
Mini Bow-Making Workshop
Ever want to make a bow but don’t know where to start? Join Jefferson Patterson Park for a mini bow build, where you will learn the basics of bow building and create a bow that can shoot arrows over 150 ft! Appropriate for ages 13 and up. $10. 7–8 p.m.
From Slavery to Civil Rights Tour
The B&O Railroad Museum is honoring African American History Month with our “From Slavery to Civil Rights” tour. Discover the rich and enduring legacy of African American railroaders, from the dark days of slavery and the Civil War, through segregation, and into the Civil Rights movement. The kid-friendly version (Feb. 24) of our “From Slavery to Civil Rights” tour is designed to engage kids’ in their understanding of the history of African Americans on the railroad, and includes an activity to reflect on what they have learned. 1 p.m. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore. Kid-Friendly Tour: Wed, Feb. 24
Thursday, February 11
Look Up! What Do You See?
The new moon, when there is no moonlight, is the best time to view the night sky. Take advantage of the new moon and join us as we explore the starry wonders of the February night. Enjoy the sky lore that has fascinated generations of people throughout history. Adults & children 6 and older. $3/person or $10/family. 8 –9 p.m. Register by email: [email protected].
Virtual Zoomobile Program
Join The Maryland Zoo for a live, virtual Sensory Safari! During this 30-minute, interactive preschool presentation, the Zoo will teach children how animals use their senses just like we do. Children will meet the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors and learn how they use their senses too! This program is made possible thanks to generous support from PNC Grow Up Great. Register for this program to receive the Zoom link for the event. 1:30 –2 p.m.
February Virtual Charity Wine Dinner
Luna Blu of Annapolis invites you to eat and drink for a great cause! 10% of each 5 course dinner and 100% of the cash wine raffle will be donated to The Spa Creek Conservancy. $140 for 2 ( $85.00 for 1) You will receive 4- 750 ml bottles of wine. Pick up will be between 4 and 5 p.m. The virtual call will begin at 6 p.m. Luna Blu, 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. 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 month’s theme is Jellyfish. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Kids Writers Live! With Kwame Alexander
Join award-winning children’s and young adult author Kwame Alexander as he discusses his books during a moderated Q&A conversation. Presented in partnership with the Enoch Pratt Free Library and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. 6–6:30 p.m. Preregister to ask questions and receive link to the virtual program.
Friday, February 12
Bug Bytes
Join a virtual bug hunt while you discover pollinators, decomposers, and arachnids. Learn what characteristics make a bug an insect, explore the stages of metamorphosis, and observe live specimens. Children ages 5 to 7 will work together during this in–person STEM workshop and learn with other students in a hands–on classroom setting with educators at the Maryland Science Center. The 45 minute session begins at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $19.95 per participant and includes admission to the science center’s exhibit halls. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore.
Blossomed for Purpose Mom-Me Time Brunch
Calling all single moms! Come enjoy a Valentine’s Brunch and an afternoon of fun and gifts with women just like you! 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $15 per person. Eggspectation, Ellicott City.
Great Backyard Bird Count at the Hyatt in Cambridge
12–15. The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina will provide a family-friendly getaway for the President’s Day holiday. The resort will participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) and provide socially-distanced outdoor activities throughout the weekend. It is also offering the “Getaway” promotion for discounted room rates throughout the season.
Jewelry Trunk Show
Feb. 12–14. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Some beautiful jewelry awaits at the annual Jewelry Trunk Show! Featured are collections from Michelle Pressler, Mickey Lynn, and VIELÄ. Treat yourself to a new look for the warmer weather ahead. Plus, enjoy a FREE box of sea salt caramels with any jewelry purchase of $50 or more! Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Saturday, February 13
Cupid’s Drive-In at Annapolis Town Center
Experience a new kind of date night this Valentine’s Day at Cupid’s Drive-In at Annapolis Town Center. On February 13, the property is welcoming guests to their drive-in movie lot for a special event featuring two showings. Purchase tickets for a 5:30 p.m. showing of Casablanca or an 8:30 p.m. showing of La La Land. For just $75, guests will receive access to the big screen, a gift certificate to a Town Center restaurant of their choice, two mini bottles of champagne, and a rose. Purchase your tickets early at www.visitATC.com.
Valentine’s Chocolate–Dipping and Wine–Sipping at home
Learn the art of making chocolate ganache from the comfort of home while sipping local wine from Linganore Winery! Pick up your kit and place your wine orders (wines shipped separately). Learn about the cocoa bean from a Robinson Nature Center staff member while coating and decorating treats with your handmade ganache. Receive tasting notes on your selected wines and enjoy pairing recommendations. Material pick up: 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Last day to pre–register Feb. 6. $25 per kit, does not include the cost of wine. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
Playing with Fire for Women
Women and young women ages 13 and up learn the art of fire building in a supportive environment. Discover where to find dry wood and tinder even in winter, which woods burn best and how to build and start a fire. Try using a bow drill kit, fire sticks and much more. 1–3 p.m. $10 per person. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills.
Love Birds Tea Party–in–a–Box
Enjoy a bird–themed tea party at home. The Robinson Nature Center will provide the materials and prerecorded activity videos for your experience. Decorate a birdhouse; make treats for birds; and learn how to identify birds visiting your yard. Sweet Simplici–tea provides a delicious scone and cookie along with decorations you can add, and a pot’s–worth of tea leaves for you to steep. Must register by Feb. 6. Pick up your kit at Robinson Nature Center. $55 kit for one child and one adult. To register an additional adult or child please call 410–313–0400 (additional child $25, additional adult $15) as discounted prices not available through online registration. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
Engineering 101: Parachutes
Falling can hurt but a parachute can help. Design and build your own parachute to safely land in the drop zone! $2. Participants will be e–mailed a link after registrations along with instructions to pick up the activity kit from the museum. College Park Aviation Museum, College Park.
Valentine’s Day with ClubSciKidz
Join Club SciKidz MD for a special Valentine’s Day virtual event! We’ll be making hearts dance and learning about density by making our very own LOVE-A lamp! We’ll finish by reading a Valentine’s book and making a craft. The class will also incorporate movement & children’s literature. Materials are included and will be mailed to the participant. $15 per student. Preschool-Kindergarten (ages 3-6): 10–10:45 a.m.
Elementary (grades 1-5): 11–11:45 a.m.
Celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Ox!
Join the Busch Annapolis staff for Lunar New Year stories, songs and more for children ages three to five! Swing by for Curbside Pick–up of a Lunar New Year craft the week before the program. Call 410–222–1750 to register. Michael E. Busch Library, Annapolis.
STEAM Team: Running with the Watershed
Bring your little mariner to CBMM to join their STEAM Team! Each week, STEAM Team participants will join an experienced educator in a hands–on exploration that incorporates STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) with the arts. $15 per class, discount for signing up for all four sessions. Two sessions each day: 10 a.m.–noon for ages 4–6; 1–3 p.m. for ages 7–9. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels.
Free Family MakerSpace Workshop: Cardboard Animals
Time to get creative and make some cardboard animal friends! Workshop will be held indoors in the Chesapeake Arts Center STEAM Lab on the third floor of the main building. All ages are welcome, but caregivers must be present. Pre–registration for a time slot through the CAC website is required and space is limited. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
President’s Day Fun at Port Discovery
13–15. Enjoy President’s Day Weekend fun at Port Discovery with all kinds of fun! Celebrate Valentine’s Day by taking part in our collaborative art display, learn about Lunar New Year as you create Hóngbāo – Lucky Red Envelopes, and more! Port Discovery is open on Saturdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m.–4 p.m. and Monday, February 15 (President’s Day) from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Sunday, February 14
Valentine’s Date Night: A Taste of Italy
Grab your significant other for a tasty trip to enjoy a delicious tour of homemade Italian favorites. Grab a friend and your favorite wine as we learn that you don’t have to fly across the globe to get the fresh taste of homemade Italian cuisine! Class is for couples ages 18 and up, and is BYOB. $130. 6 – 8 p.m. TasteBuds Kitchen, Chester.
COLD OUT: Family Sundays Planetarium Show: Zula Patrol – Under the Weather
Enjoy the stars on a Sunday afternoon! We provide a second opportunity to catch our monthly planetarium program for families. Each program features a full–dome movie preceded by the same live, family–friendly planetarium presentation given on Friday evening where you discover what’s in the night sky that month. Portions of the program may be held outside of the planetarium. Age 4 and up. $5 per person. Call 410–313–0400 to reverse your tickets; no online registration available. Tickets will be released 5 minutes prior to the program for “no–shows.” If still available, tickets will be sold at the front desk on the day of the program. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
Valentine’s Day Virtual Wine Dinner with Italian Winemaker Bibi Graetz (pre recorded)
What’s better than a romantic evening at home? Luna Blu will be offering 5 courses paired with 4- 750 ml bottles of wine for $150 for two. Pick up between 4 and 5 p.m. With your meal, there will be a tasting mat to guide you through the pairings along with a link to the pre-recorded video from Bibi Graetz, Italian artist and winemaker. He’ll take you on a tour of his beautiful property in Italy! Luna Blu, Annapolis.
Monday, February 15
Great Backyard Bird Count hosted by Discoveries Library
Learn how you can participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count right from your own window. Wondering what birds visit your yard? Learn about local birds and how you can learn to identify them by their color, beak shape and song. 11 a.m. Hosted by Discoveries Library Staff on the Discoveries Facebook page.
Valentine’s Day: Battle Cupcake Camp
Kids ages 4 to 8 can learn the techniques to create melt-in-your-mouth cupcakes, delicious frosting and also how to decorate like a pro. Their culinary creativity will be put to the test as they invent their own version of this sweet treat using a tasty array of flavors and mix-ins, frosting and fondant. This is a drop-off camp which begins at 1 p.m. $45. TasteBuds Kitchen, Chester.
Tuesday, February 16
You Otter Know
Learn about river otters in the Chesapeake Bay, in a two-part event for kids and adults! Once you sign up online, you’ll be able to enter the webinar any time after it starts. You can participate in the drawing event at 6pm, the lecture at 7pm, or both!
Tuesday Tunes: Rufus Roundtree & Da B’More Brass Factory
Extraordinary musicians Rufus Roundtree and Da B’More Brass Factory infuse the essence of the New Orleans brass band sound that defines the mardi gras experience with a hometown contemporary flare; recreating versions of R&B and hip-hop songs with funk, neo-soul and jazz elements. It promises to be an invigorating, B’more Gras experience on Fat Tuesday. With the Enoch Pratt Free Library, 2–3 p.m.
Thursday, February 18
The Future of the Black Family
Join the Banneker–Douglass Museum via Zoom for a panel discussion on the evolution of the Black family. A diverse group of panelists will explore the uniqueness of the Black family structure, past and present and future. Zoom 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Make a Soap Duck
Decoy carving is an iconic folk art that is practiced throughout Maryland, particularly on the eastern shore. Learning the basics of carving can be done cheaply and safely with a bar of soap. Join the Black Hill Nature Program for a virtual class and make your own soap duck. 6 p.m. Pre–register for link.
Little Minnows
For preschoolers ages 3 – 5, with an adult. This program focuses on one of the museum’s three themes. 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 month’s theme is Jellyfish. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Friday, February 19
Up in the Air???
Fight gravity by launching rockets and flying like a bird. After spending some time in the clouds, we’ll engineer parachutes to land safely back on Earth. Children ages 5 to 7 will work together during this in–person STEM workshops and learn with other students in a hands–on classroom setting with educators at the Maryland Science Center. The 45 minute session begins at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $19.95 per participant and includes admission to the science center’s exhibit halls. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore.
Saturday, February 20
Black Representation Matters (Virtual)
Are you looking for ways to celebrate Black authors and their books during Black History Month and year–round? This virtual session, a combined effort of the Anne Arundel County Public Library and the Banneker–Douglas Museum will explore why Black representation in books matters, share tips for having courageous conversations about race with young children, and offer recommendations of board books, picture books, and early chapter books. 2 p.m.– 3 p.m. Pre–registration required.
Maple Magic at Ladew
Feb. 20 and 21. Take a hike along Ladew’s Nature Walk to identify trees in winter, observe tapped maple trees, and collect sap, which is boiled down into delicious, amber syrup on an open fire. Tour ends with a tasty treat. Maple Magic takes place exclusively outdoors in groups of 10 people with assigned time spots. Face coverings are required for ages 3 and older. Space is limited. $12 per person. Ages 2 and under free. Advance registration is required as Maple Magic sells out each year. Ladew Gardens, Monkton.
Focus: Feeder Feast
Winter is the harshest time in nature’s calendar. Berries and nuts from the previous year are mostly depleted, and nights are long and bitter cold. Winter bird residents could really use a handout to push through ‘til spring arrives. Join an Irvine naturalist to observe, up close, the hardy feathered friends who frequent the center’s bird feeding stations. Help collect data for a continent–wide citizen science project that tracks when and where winter birds are feeding and look for a few of the ‘irruptive’ species that have trekked down from Canada. Adults and children ages 8 and up. $10 per person. 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills.
Campfire Fun
Does your family like just hanging around the campfire and enjoying the warm glow? Ever take a winter hike and wish there was a cozy fire at the end? Join the staff from Irvine Nature Center around the campfire; you’ll warm back up and even make a delicious campfire snack. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Event is free, but pre–register for a timed–entry ticket. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills.
Sunday, February 21
Blast Off with NASA and JMM!
Go on an out-of-this-world journey with NASA and the Jewish Museum of Maryland! This combined virtual visit explores both NASA Goddard Visitor Center and JMM’s Jews in Space: Members of the Tribe in Orbit exhibit. This kid-friendly program will explore how and why people look to space as a source for information and inspiration. 3:30–4:30 p.m. Free.
Physically–Distanced Creature Features
Enjoy a visit to the Nature Center and meet a new, live animal friend. These half–hour programs will introduce you to a member of Maryland’s wildlife community through a presentation of one of the Nature Center’s animal ambassadors along with a craft, game or activity. Seating is limited to ensure social distancing. $5. Ages 3 and up. 3 p.m. Call 410–313–0400 to reserve your spot, no online registration. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia.
Rooted in Rainbow with Muse Paintbar
Paint along live from the comfort of your own home. Sign up and Muse will send you a link to join their virtual instructor in real time from 12–1:30 p.m. and they’ll lead you step by step to create your masterpiece. Supplies available to purchase after booking. $20. Muse Paintbar, Annapolis.
A Late Winter Walk in the Woods
Mark the changing of the seasons with a walk in the woods at Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. We will look for the first leaf buds preparing to burst and resident birds defending their breeding territories. Learn about winter foods in the woods. Adults & children 10 & older $3/person or $10/family. Register here: bit.ly/BBHPMregister<http://bit.ly/BBHPMregister
Wednesday, February 24
From Slavery to Civil Rights Tour
The B&O Railroad Museum is honoring African American History Month with our “From Slavery to Civil Rights” tour. Discover the rich and enduring legacy of African American railroaders, from the dark days of slavery and the Civil War, through segregation, and into the Civil Rights movement. The kid-friendly version (Feb. 24) of our “From Slavery to Civil Rights” tour is designed to engage kids’ in their understanding of the history of African Americans on the railroad, and includes an activity to reflect on what they have learned. 1 p.m. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore.
Thursday, February 25
Little Minnows
For preschoolers ages 3 – 5, with an adult. This program focuses on one of the museum’s three themes. 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 month’s theme is Jellyfish. This program is now offered at various times throughout the day, to accommodate guests during all sessions. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.
Friday, February 26
Beaks and Feathers
With over 9,000 species of birds around the globe, discover the similarities and differences between them. Take a look at their habitats while weaving a bird’s nest. Children ages 5 to 7 will work together during this in–person STEM workshops and learn with other students in a hands–on classroom setting with educators at the Maryland Science Center. The 45 minute session begins at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $19.95 per participant and includes admission to the science center’s exhibit halls. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore.
Julia’s Kitchen
Grab a friend or two and learn some of Julia Child’s classic and comforting dishes. Featuring Beef Bourguignon as the star of the show with slow-cooked and savory seared beef, fork-tender vegetables and a rich full-flavored sauce and concluding with melt-in-your-mouth chocolate truffles. Together you will perfect the delicious flavors that make her food so memorable to create a hearty and comforting menu, Ages 18 and up. 6–8 p.m. $120 and up, depending on your group size (accommodating from 2 to 6 per table.) TasteBuds Kitchen, Chester.
Saturday, February 27
The Little Mermaid Live!
Go Under the Sea with the Ballet Theatre of Maryland, who has partnered with the Westin in Annapolis to bring ballet back to life. Join BTM for the revival of The Little Mermaid, in which a mischievous young mermaid takes us on the adventure of a lifetime when she willingly gives up her freedom of life in the sea to become human, gain an immortal soul, and win the heart of a handsome, young Prince.
Watch Live Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. or 6:30 p.m.
or Feb. 28 at 2 p.m.
Virtual tickets available for the same performances. Click here to purchase tickets.
Spring Has Sprung Trail Adventure and Egg Hunt
Feb. 27 –28. Delight in an outdoor, guided adventure on the grounds of the Robinson Nature Center! At each stop, 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. Sign up for a time slot with friends to enjoy the fun together. Please arrive promptly as your group will stay together during this experience. 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $7–10. Pre–register for a time slot by calling 410–313–0400. Robinson Nature Center, Owings Mills.
STEAM Team: Blasting Off Like NASA
Bring your little mariner to CBMM to join their STEAM Team! Each week, STEAM Team participants will join an experienced educator in a hands–on exploration that incorporates STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) with the arts. $15 per class, discount for signing up for all four sessions. Two sessions each day: 10 a.m.–noon for ages 4–6; 1–3 p.m. for ages 7–9. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels.
Campfire Fun
Does your family like just hanging around the campfire and enjoying the warm glow? Ever take a winter hike and wish there was a cozy fire at the end? Join the staff from Irvine Nature Center around the campfire; you’ll warm back up and even make a delicious campfire snack. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Event is free, but pre–register for a timed–entry ticket. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills.
Free Family MakerSpace Workshop: Seed Bombs
Workshop will be held indoors in the Chesapeake Arts Center STEAM Lab on the third floor of the main building. All ages are welcome, but caregivers must be present. Pre–registration for a time slot through the CAC website is required and space is limited. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park.
Northern Lights with Muse Paintbar
Paint along live from the comfort of your own home. Sign up and Muse will send you a link to join their virtual instructor in real time from 8–9:30 p.m. and they’ll lead you step by step to create your masterpiece. Supplies available to purchase after booking. $20. Muse Paintbar, Annapolis.
Sunday, February 28
February Virtual Charity Wine Dinner
Eat and drink for a great cause while staying safe at home. 10% of each 5 course Luna Blu dinner and 100% of the cash wine raffle will be donated to Center of Help. $140 for 2 ( $85.00 for 1) You will receive 4- 750 ml bottles of wine. Pick up will be between 4 and 5 p.m. Bill Bourque is returning for another amazing evening featuring some great wines and side by side comparison of two very different Pinot Noirs from Oregon. Luna Blu, Annapolis.
