Grab & Go Kids Planner: March 16 through March 23

It's Wednesday, and that means it's time to check out our Grab & Go Kids Planner to see what the Takoma Park area has to offer kids and families this week. As always, we'd love to hear from you if there are any local, family-friendly events that we missed. Let us know, and we'll be sure to keep an eye out for them in the future.

As the weather warms up, you're going to want to get out more. Although it's not quite outdoor weather, there's still plenty to do in the area. Cultural events abound this week. There's a festival celebrating the culture of Japan, a Purim Party, French story time and more. Enjoy the diversity and talent the area has to offer.

Take a look at your options:

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Where/When: Send the kids over to on Wednesday at 4 p.m.
Why Go: If your child loves to read comics or just wants to get to know them better, they'll want to check out Comics Jam. They can read their favorite comics and interact with others who love comics as much as they do.
Pricing: FREE

• PETIT CHANSONS -
Where/When: hosts this fun bilingual story time at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday
Why Go: Madame Marie will take you and your little ones on a quick journey to France through stories and songs read and sung in French. Bon voyage!
Pricing: FREE

• ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL
Where/When: The Environmental Film Festival in the Nation's Capital kicked off on Tuesday. Films will be playing at AFI Theatre and Cultural Center from March 18 to March 26. Check out the website for details on films and show times.
Why Go: Film festivals aren't just for grown-ups. There are a wide variety of movies at this film festival, including films like "White Lion," which kids and parents will enjoy and learn from.
Pricing: Prices vary. Please see website for information on pricing for each film.

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Where/When: The party takes place in the Kemp Mill area on Sunday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Why Go: This is an interactive Purim celebration! Parents and kids can play roles of important people in Purim story. The kids can make hamentaschen and everyone can enjoy a great potluck dinner after.
Pricing: There's no cost for this event, but all are asked to bring a dish for the potluck dinner.

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Where/When: Head over to the Bauer Drive Community Center in Rockville on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Why Go: In the aftermath of the terrible earthquake in Japan, what better way to honor and celebrate the culture of this great country? There will be plenty of activities for the whole family.
Pricing: FREE