Get Out: Weekend Picks for Sept. 16-18

1. Culture Kids - The Big Build: A Hands-On Family Festival

Where: National Building Museum, 401 F St., NW, Washington, D.C.

When: Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

What: The National Building Museum presents The Big Build 2011. The event allows participants to explore tools, trucks, and building arts at the museum. Activities and demonstrations are best suited for kids ages 4-12, and the youngest are encouraged to join in a sing along with Bob the Builder, live and on stage.

Price: Free

2. Happy Birthday Montgomery County!

Where: Beall-Dawson Historical Park, 103 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville, MD. 

When: Sunday, Sept. 18, from 2-5 p.m.

What: Celebrate the 235th birthday of Montgomery County, MD. Join community members for a family-friendly event including free tours of the Beall-Dawson house, historical displays, a 19th century photo station, and children’s activities, and more. The event will conclude with free birthday cake for everyone.

Price: Free

3. Friday Night Concerts on the Square

Where: Rockville Town Square

When: Friday, Sept. 16, from 6-9 p.m. (Friday Night Concerts on the Square continue on Sept. 23 before concluding on Sept. 30.)

What: Sons of Pirates will be playing acoustic rock live from Rockville Town Square Friday night. Take your family out for dinner and enjoy some music before, during or after! Vendors will be selling food and beverages to those at the concert as well.

Price: Free

4. 21st Annual Poolesville Day Festival and Celebration

Where: Along Fisher Avenue, Poolesville, MD.

When: Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a free screening of TRON: Legacy (PG) at 7:15 p.m. in Whalen Commons.

What: Join the town of Poolesville for its 21st annual festival and celebration. Following a 5k race at 8 a.m., the day’s events start with a parade at 10 a.m. and is filled with activities for people of all ages including local bands, pony rides, an art show, and the 6th Annual Class Rod, Car, Truck, and Motorcycle show.

Price: Free

5. Maryland Renaissance Festival 

Where: Crownsville Road in Annapolis, MD.

When: Saturday, Sept. 17, and Sunday, Sept. 18, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Continues on weekends through the end of October.

What: This outdoor festival presents a full-day outdoor theatrical reproduction of medieval England, complete with sword fights, pompous royalty, dirty serfs, games, jugglers, and turkey legs. There are roving shows, period merchants  and a lot of fun for families.

Price: $9 for ages 7-15; $19 for adults; $16 for seniors. Coupons and group rates are available on the website.