Looking for the creativity and excitement of learning new things without homework and school day routines? We the Kids Day combines everything that kids love into one place. Visit James Madison’s Montpelier on Saturday, April 5th, for We The Kids Day! Take advantage of this day during spring break to participate in activities specially created for children and families. This year Montpelier has partnered with community organizations and historic sites to showcase their offerings.
At James Madison’s Montpelier, engaging and inspiring audiences of all ages is a core part of our mission. We the Kids Day is dedicated to introducing our youngest visitors to the power of this site. Children have taught us that they see Montpelier differently than our adult visitors, and our programming on April 5 reflects the diverse ways in which people of all ages connect to Montpelier.
We will have traditional elements, such as opening the House for self-guided walk-throughs. But there is much more to explore outside. Learn about historic cooking with renowned foodways teacher and historian Leni Sorensen, photography demonstrations with 19th century photographer Greg Farley. At 1 PM, Lindsay Cormack (Associate Professor of Political Science at Stevens Institute of Technology and author of How to Raise a Citizen (and Why It’s Up to You to Do It)), will host an interactive workshop for parents and kids on citizenship.
Many visitors may not realize that James Madison – in addition to being the fourth President of the United States, “Father” of the U.S. Constitution, and “Architect” of the Bill of Rights – was a scientist and naturalist! On We the Kids Day come and explore science in the 19th century with hands-on activities. Get messy and plant seeds to start a garden. Have a shockingly good time with our static electricity machine. Get up close and personal with some of the wildest residents of the Wildlife Center of Virginia. Harness the power of the elements with Culpeper Water and Soil Conservation District educators. Ever wondered about your family’s roots? The Montpelier Descendants Committee has an activity just for you. Don’t forget to stop and have a conversation with James Madison!
Montpelier’s 8+ miles of well-marked walking trails are one of Virginia Piedmont’s best-kept secrets. Winding through horse pastures, wildflower meadows, and forests, including the Old-Growth Landmark Forest, the trails offer spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and intimate encounters with native plants and wildlife. So bring your walking shoes!
If you like visiting historic sites and places, come to Montpelier and learn about four more historic sites in one location with our community superpartners: Historic Germanna, the Museum of Culpeper History, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, and James Monroe’s Highland.
On April 5 from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, explore the entire site, grab a bite from the Twisted Provisions food truck, or bring your own picnic. We the Kids Day: Hands-On is hands-down the most fun you will have this Spring Break! To learn more and register, visit https://www.montpelier.org/events/we-the-kids-day/.
