The Kennedy Center is hosting a family-friendly block party on April 13, 2024, featuring activities and performances inspired by award-winning author and Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s book “The Year We Learned to Fly.” The event, free to the public, will run from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Kennedy Center’s REACH Plaza.

Families can enjoy various activities, including classic games like jump rope and hopscotch, Double Dutch lessons with DC Retro Jumpers, sidewalk chalk art with Chalk R!ot, fort building with Arts on the Horizon, roller skating, and displays by graffiti artists. The event also celebrates the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Special features include a book reading by Woodson with accompaniment from composer and storyteller Be Steadwell and music provided by DJ Beauty and the Beatz. The Eastern Sr. High School “Blue and White Marching Machine” is scheduled to perform, among other yet-to-be-announced acts. Virginia Ali of Ben’s Chili Bowl will attend and sign copies of her book “Breaking Barriers with Chili” for the first 100 guests.

Local food trucks will provide food and refreshments, and the event is designed for attendees of all ages. Reservations are not required, but they are encouraged. Those who pre-register by March 8 will be entered into a lottery for a discounted parking voucher for the Kennedy Center garage, which will be distributed to 500 random pre-registrants.

In the event of inclement weather, the block party will be rescheduled for April 14, 2024, at the same time. Visitors can check the Kennedy Center website for event updates and reservation information.

The Kennedy Center is accessible to people with disabilities, and the Moonshot Studio will offer a quiet space with sensory tools for guests who need a break from the day’s activities.