KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter
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Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
It's often said that parenting is a "thankless" job. In one sense, that's undeniably true, because it will likely be many years before the young humans you're raising—the ones who actually have a stake in the outcome of the excellent job you're doing—are in a position to thank you. So you don't hear that phrase often during the first couple of decades of parenthood.
My fervent wish
for the future is to live in a world filled with engaged, culturally literate, productive, happy people. This means that what I said above isn't precisely accurate: It's not only your kids who have a stake in your parenting success, we ALL do, because the path to that future starts NOW for the young people in your orbit. So I'm grateful that you care about getting them "out and about" to the wide variety of experiences available in your community: It will make all
the difference.
Our job here at KidsOutAndAbout.com is to help you do that as easily as possible. In 2001, I created the original version of this web platform that now connects 15 million people each year with their area's activities and resources. My team gets to see it all up-close and personal as local businesses post to KidsOutAndAbout through their free listings, and then we get to turn around and shout about them to y'all, bringing your community closer to you.
So I want to
step in for the rest of the world that's not (yet) thanking you, and say it to you today: Thank you so much for what you're doing. Raising kids is hard in any era, but no one could have anticipated all the roadblocks that a pandemic would toss onto our path.
As anyone who knows me knows, I'm endlessly looking for reasons to celebrate. So today, I'm celebrating YOU with my digital megaphone and pom-poms. You're doing a great job. Future Deb sends her thanks,
too.
—Debra Ross, publisher
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KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
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KidsOutAndAbout.com is conducting a short survey to better understand how families are navigating the fast-changing world of AI. We're asking all parents, grandparents, and caregivers—whether you're tech-savvy or not—to weigh in. Your input will directly shape upcoming national resources designed to help families guide kids wisely and safely. The survey closes soon, so please take 60–90 seconds to be part of this important effort.
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Families, get ready to jingle all the way to Pinstripes for the most festive brunch of the season! Santa's making his list and checking it twice, and your family's invited to join him for our spectacular Santa Brunch. Every Saturday & Sunday from 11/29 - 12/21, the big man himself is trading his sleigh for a seat at our table. Join us for a holiday buffet packed with action stations, classic breakfast selections, and an amazing chocolate fountain that's sure to delight! Plus, kids 5 & under eat FREE! Gather your merry little band and make this season unforgettable. Spots fill faster than Santa's sleigh, so book today!
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Make this holiday season one to remember. Starting November 29 and running through the entire month of December, The Nutcracker returns to the historic Warner Theatre. Whether you are surprising loved ones with an evening out or planning a family celebration, The Nutcracker offers the kind of magic that brings generations together. Premium seating includes extra-wide plush chairs, in-seat wait service, early lounge access, and complimentary parking, a gift that everyone will appreciate. Our concierge team ensures your evening feels seamless from start to finish, so you can focus on what matters most, spending time with the people you love. Gather your family and friends, select your night out, and share the joy of The Nutcracker at the Warner Theatre. The best seats in the house are filling quickly. Learn more and view dates here. Questions? You can reach Maryclaire Griffin at 202-626-8255 or maryclairegriffin@livenation.com.
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The private schools in the DC Metro area cater to every educational need and parent philosophy. This is KidsOutAndAbout's education highlight page, containing specially featured schools and also our master list of local schools.
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Whether you’re starting a family tradition, planning a festive date night, or celebrating with friends, climb aboard for a magical, two-hour experience inspired by the beloved holiday classic! Slip into your coziest pajamas and climb aboard this enchanted train bound for the North Pole. Your adventure begins with a joyful live performance of “Hot Chocolate,” followed by a special moment with Santa himself—who presents each guest with the First Gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell. When you arrive at our winter wonderland, the magic continues with holiday crafts, cozy s’mores, festive shopping, and a keepsake photo with Santa. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride brings the spirit of Christmas to life—for all who believe.
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Williamsburg’s Biggest and Brightest Christmas Event! Holiday cheer returns to Busch Gardens® Williamsburg for our annual Christmas Town™ celebration on select dates between November 14 and January 4, 2026. The World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park is once again transformed with more than ten million twinkling lights, creating one of the largest light displays in North America.
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Experience So Much Christmas with dazzling displays, tempting treats, holiday shows, and festive activities. ICE! features beloved scenes from The Polar Express™ brought to life through colorful, colossal ice sculptures. Whether you're staying overnight or visiting for the day, it's the ultimate way to create lasting holiday memories together! ICE! is presented by PEPSI®.
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Bark, woof, and howl—a paws-itively fun time awaits! Come along with these delightful dogs as they drive, swim, play baseball, and make their way to the big dog party—all in a lively blend of English and Spanish. Like a pop-up book that comes to life, Go, Dog. Go! • Ve Perro ¡Ve! is a heartwarming spectacle of delightful accordion tunes, colorful costumes, and charming movement.
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Get into the holiday spirit at the Old Town Manassas Christmas Fair & Holiday Craft Show! This festive event is filled with the perfect mix of holiday cheer, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. It’s the ideal way to kick off your holiday shopping and enjoy a cozy, community-focused day with family and friends.
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- Free mini photo session with Shoott! - Shoott - Broadway, New York, NY, USA, November 28, 2025, see link for times
- Old Town Manassas Christmas Fair and Holiday Craft Show @ Manassas Museum - 9101 Prince William St, Manassas, VA 20110, November 29, 2025, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- NOVEMBER 29 - 30 National
Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show - 150 National Plz, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, November 29 - 30, 2025, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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The Washington, D.C. metro area offers a delightful selection of Christmas tree farms that bring the magic of the holiday season to life. Families can enjoy the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect tree while exploring picturesque landscapes and
engaging in festive activities.
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KidsOutAndAbout is the DMV's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families! The activities we've listed here are confirmed for this year, but many require reserving ahead of time, and
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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Dallas area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
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2025's Top 20 Places to Take Kids in the Detroit Metro Area, as voted by thousands of parents! Our Top 20 results page includes a list of your top picks, including winners in special categories like Top Arts Educator, Top Sports Educator, and Top STEM
Educator!
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Here's to seizing opportunities to learn wherever they appear!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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