Macaroni Kid
Rockville - Gaithersburg
Macaroni Kid   Editions

Great things to do with your family this week!


How has everyone's week been?  This past week was a hard one for my family, but this coming week should be amazing!  I am get to go see the How To Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular! at the Verizon Center on Thursday night, and then head off to New York City Friday afternoon to be pampered by Macaroni Kid National.  I am so honored to be able to say our site is among the largest out of all of the Mac Kid sites which is why I get to ...

A FABULOUS New Hourly Childcare Option!


This week I would like to introduce you to one of my favorite new local businesses!  Adventure Kids Playcare is now open near White Flint and it fills a huge void.  Before AKP opened, if you needed to run some errands, go on a date, clean the house, have emergency back-up childcare, etc. you had to hope you could find a reliable and trustworthy babysitter who happened to be available (sometimes on very short notice).  Now, you don't have to give any of these situations a second thought...you ...

How To Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular Review


This has been my son's FAVORITE live event/show we've been to and that is saying a lot.  Usually, no matter how great the show, he is ready to leave after the first 30-40 minutes if not sooner.  Instead, even since leaving, he keeps asking when we can go back and talking about the next time we will see the dragon show. 

My little man is almost five, but not a fan of the dark.  For the first 10 minutes or so he sat covering his eyes, a ...

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL Dralion in Baltimore


Your Chance to WIN tickets!!!

Cirque du Soleil is pleased to announce that the critically-acclaimed touring production Dralion will perform in Baltimore at 1st Mariner Arena from August 22 - 26 for seven performances only.

Thrilling more than 8 million people worldwide since the show premiered in 1999, Dralion is the fusion of ancient Chinese circus traditions and the avant-garde style of Cirque du Soleil. The name Dralion (pronounced “Drah-lee-on”) is drawn from its two main symbols: the dragon, representing the East, and the lion, representing the West. Dralion derives much of its inspiration from Eastern ...


THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN Advanced Screening!


Your chance to win free passes before the movie opens to the public

Academy Award®–nominated director/writer Peter Hedges (“Dan in Real Life,” What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?”) brings enchantment to the screen with “The Odd Life of Timothy Green,” an inspiring, magical story about a happily married couple, Cindy and Jim Green (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton), who can’t wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, Cindy and Jim—and their small town of Stanleyville—learn that sometimes ...

artventureUS Review


A fun, new local business to check out!

A few weeks ago, my son and I spent a few hours trying out an awesome new class in the Kentlands.  We were invited to check out artventureUS!, a local painting studio that offers painting classes for kids and adults.  They really offer something for everyone, from very basic classes for kids and families called Simple Strokes, to adult sessions where you can enjoy a glass of wine while you socialize and paint.  They also offer date nights, fundraisers, corporate events and even birthday parties.

The classes are 2-3 hours ...

How To Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular!


Firebreathing Dragons Soar Through Arena Skies at Verizon Center July 19-22!

FUN FACTS:

THE MOST TECHNICALLY ADVANCED TOUR INTEGRATING ANIMATRONICS, PROJECTIONS, LIVE CAST AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES.

• Global Creatures & DreamWorks have partnered to bring the Academy-Award® nominated film to life with real flying, fire-breathing dragons.

• The production is four years in the making.

• The production has the largest number of animatronics ever to tour the globe.

• The Red Death Dragon is the largest animatronic ever built by Creature Technology Company at over 40 feet high and 60 feet wide.

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON LIVE SPECTACULAR IS THE LARGEST FAMILY TOUR EVER ...


Macaroni Made


Summer Color Wreath

It is simple to create this colorful, festive wreath.  I could not help that it reminds me of summer, sitting on the beach drinking a fruity adult beverage!

What you need:
  • cocktail umbrellas (check party supply stores)
  • Styrofoam wreath

What you do: 

Easily poke the toothpick umbrellas into your wreath form. MORE is better in this case! Use a variety of sizes for interest!

HAVE fun! : )

Is Your Child is Suffering From Hearing Loss?


A parent’s responsibility while raising children is a never-ending task. From their health to their education from their social skills to providing a nurturing and safe environment, there is so much to do!

One issue that is so often overlooked is how our children hear. Our hearing connects us to the world around us and it is only through the ears of a child that they learn how to speak and how to listen, develop social skills, and build relationships. At school, what they hear and what they listen ...


Macaroni Menus


Easy Lasagna Recipes

My mom used to make this when I was a kid – her recipe came from a Campbell’s recipe book she’d had for years.  I have altered and changed it to be kid-friendly (no chunks or onions), but with great
flavor and ease! I don’t even use a recipe, just go with what seems right… I also cook for a family of six and plan for leftovers. So the recipe below makes one very large pan or two medium pans (cover one and stick in the freezer for ...

My Medifast Journey


Plus a coupon code!!

Weekly update: No huge news to report but check back in a few days for a super secret announcement about some amazing new Medifast products I will be sampling this week! 

There are over 70 food choices on Medifast, and then you add in your own favorite lean & green meal each day.  For me, I have found this to truly be a life-changing plan as I am over 60lbs lighter now then I was when I started last August.

_________________________________
As I mentioned a few weeks ago, with my crazy ...

This Week's Picks:


Thursday, July 19 through Sunday, July 22 - How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular!

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON LIVE SPECTACULAR show breaks every rule of theatrical entertainment to fully immerse audiences into the show in ways that have not been attempted before. Barely contained within the arena; utilizes the full venue, maximizing every dimension of the performance space to transport audiences into a mythical world of fire-breathing dragons who soar overhead at great speeds. The state-of-the-art animatronic technology and large-scale cinematic projections interact seamlessly with the live actors, who bring DreamWorks Animation’s heart-warming story to life through theatrical storytelling, martial arts and acrobatics.
Where: Verizon Center
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Buy your tickets through Ticketmaster.
Cost: Regular Ticket prices range from a low of $29.50 to a high of $69.50 (excluding fees).  SAVE 25% on weekday performances (including Friday nights) by entering the code MOM in the promo box which says "MOMMY BLOG"  Get great seats for a big discount!
For more info: See our article to find out how you can WIN 4 tickets to the show!!

This Week's Calendar:


July 16th through July 22nd

Monday, July 16 - The Billy Finch Americana Stage Show Featuring the Lovely and Talented Minerva

Bring the whole family to sing and swing along with a couple of characters who bring American Folk songs alive!
Where: Pump House Park, 401 S. Horners Lane, Rockville
When: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: Visit the website.

Tuesday, July 17 through Saturday, July 21 - RTS Fifth Anniversary Celebration

7/17: 10am-1pm Mommy & Me Extravaganza
5-7pm: Live performance by Milkshake
9:30pm Fireworks show

7/18: 8pm Free cotton candy & popcorn
8:45pm Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol

7/19: 2pm Groovy Nate at the Rockville Library (ages 3+)
3pm Free ice cream social & fountain fun

7/21: 11am-4pm: Paint our paper bag contest, Lego building contest, chalk on the Square, summertime crayon & water color painting, clay medallion & bead activity, wooden mask decorating, strolling entertainers, jugglers, face painting and more!
Where: Rockville Town Square, East Middle Ln, Maryland Ave, Gibbs St.
When: 10:00 AM (Times vary by activity and date)
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: Supplies are limited and are available first come, first serve.  For a full list of activities, visit rockvilletownsquare.com.

Tuesday, July 17 - Family Geocaching Adventures

Modern-day treasure hunting happens right here in our parks! Geocaches are hidden containers filled with interesting stuff that you track down using GPS units. Learn how to use a GPS unit, and spend the day on a geocaching adventure in search of local caches. Bring a snack, water, and be prepared to hike (long pants and sturdy shoes strongly recommended). If you don’t have a GPS unit, we'll lend you one.
Where: Meet at the Lake Needwood Boat House (15700 Needwood Lake Circle, Rockville, 20855).
When: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Who: Ages 8+
How: Registration: 301-924-4141 or click here. Please register and pay for all participants.
Cost: $10

Tuesday, July 17 - Mommy & Me and Daddies Too!

Mommy & Me and Daddies Too! meets for a special morning out with active learning and creative play at all your favorite stores!  There are lunch specials, story time, arts & crafts, sing-a-longs, prizes, and a whole lot more!
Where: Rockville Town Square Plaza
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Every 3rd Tuesday of the month)
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: You can just show up, or register online to be added to their newsletter for updates.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Visit the website.

Tuesday, July 17 - Splish-Splash, Drip, Plop

Wade in the water to see what’s swimming, diving, and living in the stream. Please wear shoes that you don't mind getting wet.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-10.
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $5.

Tuesday, July 17 - Square Kids Night

Join us every Tuesday this summer for two live stage shows.  And, if you come early, kids can eat FREE at participating restaurants.

7/17: Milkshake (family band)
7/24: Caplan (comedy, magic & illusions show)
7/31: Peter McCory (one man band)
8/7: Evidence of a Misspent Youth (juggling, magic & amazing feats show)
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM (Live Stage Shows: 6:30 & 7:30pm)
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: 8/14: Silly Bus (family band)
8/21: Mutts Gone Nuts (variety dog show)

Wednesday, July 18 - AM Little Tots @ Rio

The Little Tots series at Washingtonian Center features different children's entertainers, merchant specials, arts & crafts, raffles and more.
  • 7/18: Mad Science
  • 8/1: Kidsinger Jim
  • 8/15: Blue Sky Puppet Theatre
  • 8/29: Beowulf T. Wonderbunny
 
Where: At the Washingtonian Center in the atrium of the RIO Center.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: visit the website  

Wednesday, July 18 - Tyke Hike

Come explore the bustling world around the Nature Center. Take a nature mini-hike, and make a craft.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM (Also on 8/8)
Who: Ages 2-3.
How: Register online.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, July 18 - Little Tots in Silver Spring

7/18: Kidsinger Jim
8/1: Mr. Knick-Knack
8/15: John Henry England
8/29: Peter McCory
Where: Fountain Plaza Stage, Downtown Silver Spring, Ellsworth Drive
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome, but aimed at preschool age
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE!
For more info: May be canceled due to weather.  Visit the website.

Wednesday, July 18 - Fireflies Campfire

Have you ever wondered how or why a firefly glows? Gather around the campfire for stories, marshmallows, and the glittering jewels of the summer meadow! We'll supply the marshmallows and graham crackers, you bring your favorite chocolate, and we'll make s’mores!
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Ages 3+
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.  Please register for all participants; fee is for children only.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, July 18 - Movies on the Square

One of your favorite Summer on the Square events is back by popular demand!  Bring your own blankets/lawnchairs; no additional seating is provided.  Sorry, no coolers or outside food.

7/18: Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol
7/25: Miracle
Where: Rockville Town Square
When: 8:45 PM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE!
For more info: 8/1: Transformers: Dark of the Moon
8/8: Cars 2
8/15: The Last Lions
8/22: Moneyball

* Movies are subject to change without notice based on availability.  Weather permitting.

Thursday, July 19 - Polliwog Adventures

Each week explore a new topic in naturalis history through stories, short hikes, games and activities. Little ones will learn about nature in a hands-on environment. Adult participation required. Spaces are limited.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville, MD
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Also on 7/26 (different topics))
Who: Ages 2-5.
How: To register, call 240-314-8770.
Cost: Residents $7, non-residents $8.

Thursday, July 19 - On Stage Series

Enjoy an exciting lineup of entertainment for the whole family when you experience Gaithersburg outdoors. Don't forget your blanket or lawn chair.

7/19: Kidsinger Jim
7/26: Uncle Pete
8/2: Beowulf T. Wonderbunny
8/9: Blue Sky Puppet Theatre
Where: City Hall Concert Pavillion, 31 S Summit Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877
When: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!!
For more info: Visit the website.  Events may be cancelled or rescheduled due to weather or other circumstances. Call or visit the City's website to confirm.

Thursday, July 19 - Storytime on Lake Needwood

Join us for a short cruise on the Needwood Queen pontoon boat around Lake Needwood. Each month we’ll read a different story and look for what’s swimming, soaring, and standing nearby
Where: Meet at the Lake Needwood Boathouse, 15700 Needwood Lake Circle, Rockville, MD 20855.
When: 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM ()
Who: Ages 3+
How: Please register and pay for all participants.  Register online.
Cost: $2/adult, $6 for kids

Friday, July 20 - Cabin John Mall Kids Day

A great new children's entertainer at each event!  Plus great discounts throughout Cabin John Mall.

Fun
Where: Located in the Atrium of Cabin John Mall, Potomac, MD
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (1st & 3rd Friday each month)
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: All activities subject to change without notice. When Montgomery County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, Cabin John Kids activities will be canceled.

Friday, July 20 - My Gym Kentlands Pizza Play Night

2 hours of open play and dinner at My Gym!
Where: My Gym Kentlands, 620 Center Point Way, Gaithersburg
When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome! (members and non-members)
How: RSVP to My Gym at 301-926-5969 or e-mail [email protected]
Cost: $10 per child (cash only, pls) $5 for parents who are eating, otherwise parents are free.
For more info: Parents must stay to supervise their children.

Saturday, July 21 - Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

  • 7/21: Chris Davis, The Renaissance Man
Where: The National Theatre in Washington, DC
When: 9:30 AM (Second show at 11am)
Who: All families welcome
How: Seating is limited!! Tickets are Required, and are distributed without charge one half-hour prior to performance, on a first-come first-served basis, one ticket only, to each person standing in line. Children must be accompanied by an adult who remains present for the entire performance.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Saturday Morning at the National has been sponsored exclusively since its inception by
Marriott International, Inc. and The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, Inc. Visit the website.

Saturday, July 21 - Sensory Friendly: Ice Age: Continental Drift

In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®” policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned.
Where: AMC Rio Cinemas 18
9811 Washingtonian Blvd., Gaithersburg, Md. 20878
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Purchase at the box office on the day of the show.
Cost: $4-$6
For more info: Visit the website

Saturday, July 21 - Owls, Hawks & Eagle Lunchtime and Talk

Observe Meadowside's hawk, owl, vulture, and bald eagle during their feeding time and ask questions! Speak with a Naturalist about birds of prey, and learn some of the stories about the raptors on exhibit. These talks begin at the Raptor Walkway behind the Nature Center
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Who: Ages 2+.
How: No registration required
Cost: Free!

Sunday, July 22 - Junior Detective Day

Attention Junior Detectives.  Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to participate in training sessions to receive your Junior Detective Badge.  Put your skills to the test when you visit a variety of stations.
 
Gaithersburg Police Officers will be on hand to help participants make I.D. badges and get fingerprinted, to learn about neighborhood safety, to witness K9 demonstrations, and to explore an actual police car and motorcycle to see all the high tech equipment police officers use.  After completing all training sessions, new recruits will be sworn in as “Junior Detectives” by Gaithersburg Police Chief Mark Sroka.
Where: Kentlands Mansion is located at 320 Kent Square Road in Gaithersburg.
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: This program is best suited for 5 to 12-year-olds and parental guidance is required.
How: Reservations are required, and may be made with cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card.  For reservations please call 301-258-6425.
Cost: Admission is $10 per person.

Plan Ahead:


July 25th through July 31st

Wednesday, July 25 - Little Tots in Silver Spring

7/25: Mister G.
8/8: Mr. Gabe
8/22: Mad Science
Where: Downtown Silver Spring, Ellsworth Dr. between Georgia St and Fenton St.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone welcome, but aimed at pre-schoolers.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: Visit the website.

Wednesday, July 25 - WFamily Fun Day

Join us for themed activities, stories, songs, crafts and more!
Where: In front of Macy's, lower level 7101 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda
When: 10:30 AM (Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday)
Who: Best for ages 6 and under.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free

Wednesday, July 25 - Evening Little Tots @ The Washingtonian Center

Washingtonian Center presents Little Tots!  Join us for fun and lively family entertainment every Wednesday all summer long! 
  • 7/25: Mister G.
  • 8/8: Oh Susannah!
  • 8/22: John Henry England
Where: Washingtonian Center - On the Lakefront Plaza between Uncle Julio's and Joe's Crab Shack, Gaithersburg
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: Visit the website.

Saturday, July 28 - Saturday Story and Hike

Stop by on Saturday morning for story-time and a hike, 10-11 a.m. A naturalist will read a story for children ages 2-5 and then lead a hike based on the theme of the story. Dress for the weather. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Also on 8/25)
Who: Everyone welcome.
How: Registration required - call 240-314-8770.
Cost: $3 residents, $5 non-residents

Tuesday, July 31 - Family Geocaching Adventure on the Farm

Modern-day treasure hunting happens right here in our parks! Geocaches are hidden containers that you track using GPS units. Learn how to use a GPS unit and spend the day on a geocaching adventure around the Agricultural History Farm Park. We'll be hiking, so long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended. If you don't have a GPS unit, one will be provided.
Where: Agricultural History Farm Park 18400 Muncaster Rd. Derwood, MD 20855
When: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Who: Ages 8+
How: Please register and pay for all participants.  To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $10

Local Children's Theater Productions


Imagination Stage:
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe
June 20 - August 12
Ages 5+

The Puppet Co.:
Goldilocks
June 8 - July 15

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
July 21 - September 2

Adventure Theatre:
If You Give a Moose a Muffin
June 22 - September 2
All ages





Kids Eat Free or For Less!


(Some deals are for discounted kids meals, or activity nights at local restaurants)

Be sure to call and confirm before heading to the restaurant - offers can change at any time!!  Most of these deals are not valid with any other promotion or discount.

Mondays:

  • Mama Lucia's Pasta Night - Order one pasta entree regular price and get a second for $4 Dine In or Carryout 5-10pm (Rockville, Bethesda, Olney, Frederick & Silver Spring locations)
  • Ambrosia Grill - Buy 2 entrees and get 1 kids meal free 5-9pm 
  • Eggspectations - 1 free kids meal with purchase of adult entree (Silver Spring)The Stained Glass Pub (Silver Spring ...

Thanks to some of our fabulous Site Sponsors!


SPONSORS:

 


Special Birthday Party Pricing for Mac Kid Readers


From our FABULOUS Sponsor MarVaTots'n Teens!!

Have you all seen the AMAZING deal MarVaTots'n Teens is offering Mac Kid Rockville subscribers??!!

Book a birthday party for 7/28, 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, or 8/25 at 12:30, 1:30 or 2:30pm and SAVE 50%!!! Only $125 gets you a birthday party for 16 kids plus the birthday kid!!!

You must mention Mac Kid Rockville to get this deal and it is only available while these time slots are still open so book your party soon!  Call 301-468-9181 and ask for ...

Weekly Open Gyms & Storytimes


A great, free or low cost way to keep your kids entertained!

Do you need to get the kids out of the house? Too hot, or cold, or rainy to go outside to play? Here is a list of local businesses that offer free or low cost weekly story times or open gyms.  I suggest arriving early as these events are very popular and fill up quickly.  If you find any of these need updating, please let me know right away at [email protected].  Also, since we're heading into summer, you may want to call and confirm these as several ...


Macaroni Kid Saves


Please share your favorites with us!

Special Promotion Codes:

*Mabel's Labels - save 5% using code "macaronikid5"

Daily Deals:

Mamapedia

Eversave

Socially Ideal

Groupon

Gazette Daily Deal

Living Social

Certifikid

Online Coupon Sites:

http://www.retailmenot.com

http://www.6pm.com

If you own a local business and would like to offer our readers a discount, please e-mail me at [email protected] with the details.  If you are a subscriber, please add your discount codes in the comments section.

*We try our best to make sure these codes are current, but cannot take responsibility since ...


Subscribe to newsletter

Subscribe Now and Enter to Win an iPad Mini!



Contest Ends 6/15/2013