Events in MARCH

Wednesday, March 1

BOOK DISCUSSION: Voodoo Queen: The Spirited Lives of Marie Laveau, by Martha Ward. A look into free Black culture in New Orleans. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road. Free. Info: 301-565-7505.

CRAFTS: Knitting and Crochet Classes at Now & Then. "Finishing workshop," Bring all of your questions and unfinished projects and receive help from our expert knitter. 7-9 PM, Now & Then, 6927 Laurel Ave., TP. COST: $25. INFO: 301-270-2210

MUSIC: The Shack Breakers. 8:00PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

WORSHIP - Ash Wednesday Peace Vigil, including imposition of ashes. 7-8 pm, in the chapel, Takoma Park Presbyterian Church, 310 Tulip Avenue, Takoma Park. Info: 301-270-5550.

Thursday, March 2

CONCERT: Esther Lamneck on clarinet. 8 PM. Gildenhorn Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. Free. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

MUSIC: Squeeze Bayou, First Thursday Cajun Dance and Concert Series. 7:30-10:30 PM. Los Arrieros; 7926 Georgia Avenue in Silver Spring (between Metro and DC line) $10. Info: 301-585-8813 or www.squeezebayou.com

Friday, March 3

THEATRE: Blair Players Present Crazy About You. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, University at Colesville. $8/$4. Info: mbhs.edu or 301-649-2800

Saturday March 4

COMMUNITY MEETING: WMATA Planning session. Be part of the solution. Working meeting to develop a site plan for the Takoma Metro station. 10 AM to 4 PM, Trinity Episcopal Church, 7005 Piney Branch Road, NW, in Washington, DC.  Lunch and refreshments will be served.  If you plan to attend, RSVP to Scott Kubly at WMATA at 202-962-2677 or skubly@wmata.com. WMATA's detailed announcement about the meeting can be found at www.wmata.com/about/community/takoma.pdf.

DANCE: BosmaDance. 8 PM. Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $7-28. Info: 202-269-1600 or www.danceplace.org or www.bosmadance.com.

FAMILY ART: Paper Bag Puppets, a free art class from Create Arts Center, Feathers, sequins, glitter, yarn, fabric provided. 10:30 AM, food court at City Place, 8661 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free ongoing series offered 1st Saturday of every month. Info: www.createartscenter.org or 301-588-ARTS (2787).

HISTORY: James Swanson author of Manhunt: the Chase for Lincoln's Killer describes the search for Booth. Followed by book signing. 1 PM. National Museum of Health and Medicine, campus of Walter Reed Army Medical Center, enter from Georgia at Elder Street NW, DC; photo ID required. Free. Info: 202-781-2200 or www.nlm.nih.gov/hmd/medtour/nmhm.html

LECTURE: Lori Lipman Brown, of Secular Coalition for America will address her work on church-state separation and humanist causes. 2 PM. Chevy Chase Library, 8005 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase. Free. Info: 301-474-2896

MUSIC: Karen Collins & Backroads Band play early country and honky tonk. 9 PM-12:30 AM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. $7. Info: www.halfmoonbbq.com or www.squeezebayou.com

OPERA: Yanqui. Spirits of two slaves search for each other, meeting Harriet Tubman, Nat Turner, Frederick Douglass and John Brown on the journey. 8 PM (with pre-concert discussion at 7 PM). Concert Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. $30/$7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

PERFORMANCE: Deja Nous. French cabaret music hall as part of Arts Alive. 6 PM, repeats 8 PM. Black Box Theater, Philadelphia at Chicago on TP/SS Montgomery College Campus. $15; $10/children 8 and up. Info: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org

THEATRE: Blair Players Present Crazy About You. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, University at Colesville. $8/$4. Info: mbhs.edu or 301-649-2800

VOTER REGISTRATION: 11 AM-2 PM, Long Branch Library, 8800 Garland Ave., Silver Spring. Info: 240-777-0910

Sunday, March 5

CONCERT: Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras Spring Concert. 2 PM and 8 PM, repeated March 12. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $15; students $5 with ID. Info: www.strathmore.org or 301-581-5100.

CONCERT: Karen Collins & Backroads Trio, acoustic early country music. TIME Westside Cafe. 1A W. Second Street, Frederick. 8:00 PM $7 Info: www.westside-cafe.com

DANCE: BosmaDance. Original works include "Shelter" and "Violet in my Winter" (for Emily Dickinson) 7 PM. Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $7-28. Info: 202-269-1600 or www.danceplace.org or www.bosmadance.com.

THEATRE: Blair Players Present Crazy About You. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, University at Colesville. $8/$4. Info: mbhs.edu or 301-649-2800

Monday, March 6

CONCERT: Grace Griffith, "My Life" CD Release along with Al Petteway, Lenny Williams, Chris Biondo, Jody Marshall, Carey Creed, Paul Nahay. Institute of Musical Traditions. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14/advance; $17/door. Info: www.imtfolk.org.

FAMILY: Arianna Ross tells "Classically Different Adventures," folk tales from a new perspective. 7:30 PM. Takoma Park Library, 101 Philadelphia Avenue. Free. Call to pre-register 301-891-7259.

PUPPETS: East Meets West. Chinese puppet theatre as part of Arts Alive. 6 PM, repeats 8 PM. Black Box Theater, Philadelphia at Chicago on TP/SS Montgomery College Campus. $15; $10/children 8 and up. Info: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org

SLIDE PRESENATION: "Following Lewis and Clark." Montogmery College Profession Michael Petty has spent two summers retracing Lew and Clark's trail. 9:30 AM. Montgomery College Commons Building, Bliss Room, 7600 Takoma Avenue, Takoma Park, Free. Info & RSVP (required): francine.jamin@montgomerycollege.edu or phone (301) 650-1385.

Tuesday, March 7

CONCERT: Our Sinatra! A Big Band Musical Celebration with Ronny Whyte, Jayne Paterson and Brian Villegas. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $18-48. Info: www.strathmore.org or 301-581-5100.

POETRY: Takoma DC Library Spring Series. Readings by local poets Rod Jellema and Marie Pavlicek-Wehrli. 7:30 PM, Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar NW, DC. Free. Info: 202-576-7252.

SEMINAR: "Cafe for Socrates" - Philosophy for children and adults with author Chris Phillips, 7:30 PM. Takoma Park Library, 101 Philadelphia Avenue. Call to preregister: 301-891-7259.

TRANSIT: Forum on Beltway Widening and Transit. State Highways and Maryland Transit studies on Beltway and on Bi-county transit ("Purple Line") with Q&A. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School Student Activities Center, 51 University Blvd East, Silver Spring (Park on University Ave. lot). Info: League of Women Voters of Montgomery County, 301-984-9585 or www.lwvmd.org/mont.

Wednesday, March 8

BUSINESS: Networking Breakfast sponsored by Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. 7:30-9:15 AM. Riderwood Village, 3120 Gracefield Road, Silver Spring. Members: $20 advance/$25 door; non-members $30 advance/$35 door. RSVP: 301-565-3777 or www.gsscc.org.

CONCERT: Turtle Island String Quartet. 7 PM, repeated 9 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda.$26. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CONCERT: University and Community Bands joint concert. 8 PM. Concert Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. Free. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

FILM SCREENING: King Kong, followed by discussion of the film led by Montgomery College instructor. Open to the public. 5:30 PM, AFI Silver Theater, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Tickets are $5. INFO: 301-495-6720.

MUSIC: The Shack Breakers. 8:00PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq or (301) 585-1290

Thursday, March 9

BENEFIT: Food and Friends. Dining Out for Life. A portion of Mark's proceeds all day will go toward AIDS relief. INFO: www.markskitchen.com

MUSIC: Eddie Becker Blues Band. 8:00PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

MUSIC: Chopteeth, local Afro-funk band. 8 PM. Arrieros Restaurant and Nightclub. $8/adults; $5/students. Info: www.chopteeth.com

PERFORMANCE: Flying Karamazov Brothers —Life: A Guide for the Perplexed. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $15-40. Info: www.strathmore.org or 301-581-5100.

Friday, March 10

ART SHOW: Opening reception for "Photography is Alive and Well in Takoma Park," showcasing the work of seven local photographers: O. Dasent, Shelley Jones, T.J.Mathews, Don Olson, Rob Rudick, Nicholas Sechler, and Ken Wyner. First in continuing series of art shows in Community Center, sponsored by Takoma Park Arts and Humanities Commission. 6-8 PM. Exhibit runs through end of March. Takoma Park Community Center, 7600 Maple Avenue. Info: 301-474-2041 or www.takomagov.org

BENEFIT: TPMS Books and Basketball Night.  Used books on sale (5 PM), food on sale (6 PM), staff-student basketball game, sponsored by TPMS PTA.   7 PM. Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road. Info:   301-588-7977 .

CONCERT: Black Virtuosos Tradition with Anthony de Mare and Steven Mayer, part of American Piano Festival. 8 PM. Gildenhorn Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. $30/$7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

MUSIC: Mary Shaver and the Smokin' Polecats. 9:30PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

THEATRE: Blair Players Present Crazy About You. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, University at Colesville. $8/$4. Info: mbhs.edu or 301-649-2800

THEATRE: Michael Frayn's Noises Off, follows the antics of an inept acting troupe. Fri & Sat (8 PM), Sun (2 PM), March 10-25. Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Road (intersection of Landover and Annapolis Roads), Cheverly. $15 ($10/seniors & students). Box Office: 301-277-1710 or visit www.pgparks.com/places/artsfac/publick for directions.

Saturday, March 11

ART: A Salon Second Saturday Open Studio. 5-8 PM, 6924 Willow Street, Takoma DC. Info: www.washingtonart.net or 202-882-0740.

BOOK SALE. Used books, CDs, videos, tapes, etc. Sales fund library programs. 10:30 AM-2:30 PM. Long Branch Community Library, 8800 Garland Avenue. Info: 240-777-0910.

COMMUNITY: Spring Soccer Kick-off. Join in celebrating our community sports leagues and recognizing Howard Kohn, Neighborhood Youth Soccer League, and Gary Weinstein, Babe Ruth League. Free ice cream for kids. Sponsored by Friends of Joy Austin-Lane. 2-4 PM, Moorenko's Ice Cream Cafe, 8030-B Georgia Ave, SS. (Next to Mayorga.)

CONCERT: Classical Saturdays: BSO plays Prokofiev & Strauss. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

CONCERT: Pioneers, Mavericks and Entertainers. Part of American Piano Festival. 3 PM. Gildenhorn Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. $30/$7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

CONCERT: The Homespun Ceilidh Band, 9-piece Celtic big dance band. 8 PM. Greenbelt Arts Center, 123 Centerway, Greenbelt. $12; $10/students. Info: 301-441-8770 or www.greenbeltartscenter.org.

DANCE: Dance Place presents Laura Schandelmeier & Stephen Clapp in Dragons Project: Power Play. 1 PM. Politics & Prose, 5015 Connecticut Avenue. NW, DC. Free. Info: www.danceplace.org.

DANCE: Tappers With Attitutde Open Mic Night. 7:30 pm, Montgomery County Theater, 4010 Randolph Rd., Silver Spring. INFO: www.knockonwood.org

KIDS: Children Talk and Tour of Strathmore Artist Exhibition. 10:15 AM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $10/family. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

HISTORY: Civil War re-enactors demonstrate drills, weapons and tactics. 10 AM-3 PM. Marietta Mansion, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale, near intersection of Route 450 and Route 193W (also shuttle from Glenn Dale Community Center). Free. Info: 301-464-5291 or www.pgparks.com

PERFORMANCE: Hip Hop Festival featuring nationally-known artsits from NY, Miami, DC. 8 PM. DancePlace, 8th Street NE. $20 ($7 age 17 and under) Info: www.danceplace.org

GARDENING: Camellia Show and Sale. Noon-5 PM, also Sunday. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

MUSIC: J.P. McDermott & Western Bop. 9:30PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

THEATRE: Blair Players Present Crazy About You. 7:30 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, University at Colesville. $8/$4. Info: mbhs.edu or 301-649-2800

VOTER REGISTRATION: Sponsored by Montgomery County Board of Elections. 11 AM-2 PM, White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring. Info: 301-622-2492

VOTER REGISTRATION: Sponsored by Montgomery County Board of Elections. 11 AM-2 PM, Takoma Park Library, 101 Philadelphia Avenue, Takoma Park . Info: 301-891-7259

Sunday, March 12

BOOK SIGNING: The Great Society subway: A History of the Washington Metro. By Zachary M. Schrag. 5 PM. Politics and Prose Bookstore, 5015 Connecticut Avenue, NW at Nebraska, DC. Free. Info: 202-364-1919 or www.politics-prose.com

CONCERT: A Collaborative Context: The New England Connection. Part of American Piano Festival. 3 PM. Gildenhorn Hall, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. $25/$7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

CONCERT: Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras Spring Concert.2 PM and 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda.. $15; students $5 with ID. Info: www.strathmore.org or 301-581-5100.

DRAWING: Botanical Art demonstrations of how to draw and paint plants. 1:30-4 PM. Brookside Gardens Visitor Center, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Info: 301-962-1470 or www.brooksidegardens.org

GARDENING: Camellia Show and Sale. 9 AM-4 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: 301-962-1400. or www.brooksidegardens.org.

KIDS: Exploring Musical Instruments. Hands-on activities for ages 3-8 sponsored by College Park Arts Exchange. 3 PM. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road at corner of Dartmouth Avenue in College Park. Free. Registration appreciated: 301-927-3013 or email info@cpae.org.

KIDS: Live Music with Miss Lucy Lion. 4 PM. Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland Avenue. Free. Info: 202-544-1786.

LECTURE: Courageous Women of the NASA. 2 PM. College Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive, College Park. Free with museum admission ($4/adults, $2/children). RSVP: 301-864-6029 or www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.org

PARADE: The Nation's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Floats, marching bands, pipe bands, military, police and fire department brigades. NOON-3 PM. Parade route is along Constitution Ave., 7th - 17th Sts., NW. Attendees advised to take Metro to Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stops on orange/blue lines, or Archives/Navy Memorial stop on the Yellow/Green lines. INFO: www.saintpatricksdayparade.com/washington_dc/

PERFORMANCE: Hip Hop Festival featuring nationally-known artsis from NY Miami, DC. 7 PM. DancePlace, 8th Street NE. $20 ($7 age 17 and under) Info: www.danceplace.org

RELIGION: Purim Carnival hosted by Interfaith Families Project of Greater Washington. 10 AM - NOON, Sligo Middle School, 1401 Dennis Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-270-6337 or www.IFFP.net.

Monday, March 13

BOOK GROUP: "My Soul Looks Back in Wonder" by Juan Williams, sponsored by African American Book Group. 7 PM. White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-622-2492.

BOOK GROUP: "House Made of Dawn" by N. Scott Momaday. 7:30 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 240-773-9420.

CONCERT: The McDades, five very eclectic Canadians. Institute of Musical Traditions. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14/advance; $17/door. Info: www.imtfolk.org.

KIDS: Flower Buds, monthly series features gardening, stories, crafts and garden walks (ages 3-5 with parent). 10:30-11:30 AM. Visitors Center Classroom, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. $2/child, must register in advance using ParkPASS (www.ParkPASS.org or call 301-495-2580). Info: 301-962-1400 or www.brooksidegardens.org.

LECTURE: "Cultural Connections: Frida Kahlo's World Split Open." A Lecture/slide presentation sponsored by College Park Arts Exchange. 7 PM, at Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road at corner of Dartmouth Avenue in College Park. Free. Registration appreciated: 301-927-3013 or email info@cpae.org.

Tuesday, March 14

BOOK SIGNING: Washington Post Writer Lonnae O'Neal Parker's I'm Every Woman: Remixed Stories of Marriage, Motherhood and Work. 7 PM, Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar Street, NW. Free. Info: 202-576-7252

CONCERT: Taj Mahal and Mavis Staples. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $29-55. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CRAFTS: Knitting and Crochet Classes at Now & Then. (3 classes meet Tuesdays from 3/14- 3/28) "Beginning Knitting," Learn all the basics while making a scarf. 7-9 PM, Now & Then, 6927 Laurel Ave., TP. COST: $70, for all 3 classes. INFO: 301-270-2210

NATURE: Full Moon Hikes. Five mile hike through moonlit arboretum gardens and collections. 7-9 PM. National Arboretum, Enter through R Street gate, 24th & R Streets, NE, off Bladensburg Road. $15. Reservations required: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

Wednesday, March 15

NATURE: Full Moon Hikes. Five mile hike through moonlit arboretum gardens and collections. Not recommended for children. 7-9 PM. National Arboretum, Enter through R Street gate. $15. Reservations required: www.usna.usda.gov

Thursday, March 16

AWARDS DINNER: Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce Benefit. Cocktails, dinner, awards program. 6-9 PM. Crowne Plaza DC/Silver Spring. $60. RSVP by March 9 required: 301-565-3777 or www.gsscc.org.

COLLEGE: Montgomery College Info for High School Students with Disabilities. 7-9 PM. Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee Street, Room 136, Rockville. Info: call 301-279-5058 (TTY 301-294-9672) or www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/lcpr>www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/lcpr.

PERFORMANCE: Peru Negro showcases Afro-Peruvian rhythms. 8 PM. Kay Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. $30 ($7 student). Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-ARTS.

POETRY: Brian Gilmore and Kathleen O'Toole, Takoma Park Series. 7 PM, Takoma Park Community Center, Philadelphia & Maple Aves., TP. Free. INFO: 301-891-7224 or www.takomagov.org

Friday, March 17

CONCERT: Kurt Elling and Stacey Kent. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-50. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

FAMILY: Fun hike in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM. Children are invited to hunt for Lively the Leprechaun, who will reveal his treasure when captured. Bubbles the Klown will entertain, too. Crafts and scavenger hunt. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallen Avenue, Wheaton. Registration required: 240-777-6821.

MUSIC: Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer at Smithsonian Jazz Café, singing and playing Django and swing. 6-10 PM. Family friendly, $10 cover includes 1 beverage (ages 12 and under free). National Museum of Natural Nistory, Constitution and 10th Street. Info: 202-633-1000 or www.nmh.si.edu/jazz.

MUSIC: Mary Sue Twohy in Weil Sing House Concert Series, with Tim Harrison. 7:30-10 PM. $12 suggested donation. RSVP and directions: 301-587-8839 or email RWEIL4488@aol.com

MUSIC WORKSHOP: Peru Negro offers free dance and percussion workshop, sponsored by Latin American Folk Institute. 11 AM; details of Thurs performance above. Kay Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of Route 193 and Campus Drive. Free. RSVP: 301-887-9331.

SOBERRIDE: Free taxi rides on St. Patrick's Day provided thanks to Washington Regional Alcohol Program(WRAP) to those revelers unable to drive safely because they've been drinking. From 4 PM to 4 AM, throughout DC Metropolitan area. Participants must be 21 or older to use the SoberRide service. (NOTE: Only calls received from cell phones and landlines with a DC, VA or MD area code will be accepted. Cab ride free up to a $50 fare. Any additional fare will be responsibility of the patron.) 800-200-8294 (TAXI) or #8294 from any Cingular cellphone. INFO: www.wrap.org/programs_adult1.html

Saturday, March 18

BOOK SIGNING: Elizabeth Gilbert explores the competing urges of earthly delights and divine transcendence in her travelogue, Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia. 7 PM, Borders Books, 8518 Fenton Street, Silver Spring. Free Info: www.bordersstores.com or 301-585-0550.

CONCERT: Famous Opera Choruses. National Philharmonic with Classic Concerts International Chorus.8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-50, 17 and under free. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

FAMILY: St. Patrick's Day Green Party. Explore Nature Center and make crafts. 2 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road, NW, DC. Free. Info: 202-895-6070 or www.nps.gov/rocr

GARDENING: Orchid Festival, regional vendors display and sale, also Sunday. 10 AM-4 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

KIDS: Romp in the Swamp with Billy B for ages 3-6 as part of Jump Start with the Arts, sponsored by Class Acts Arts. 10:30 AM. NOAA Auditorium, 1301 East West Highway, Silver Spring. $6. Limited space; advance tickets: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org or by mail (send SASE and check payable to Class Acts Arts, PO Box 3580, Silver Spring, MD 20918).

MUSIC: The Big Sky. 9:00PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. $6 cover or 2 friends get in for $10. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

TALK: "Positively Skeptical: A Way of Knowing" by University of Maryland Professor Marvin Zelkowitz, Ph.D. Hosted by National Capital Area Skeptics. 2 PM. Silver Spring Branch Library, 8901 Colesville Road. Info: 301 587-3827 or www.ncas.org.

TAX CLINIC: Congressman Chris Van Hollen hosts a tax information session on electronic filing and the multitude of tax credits available. Bring your questions. 9:30-11:00 AM. Sligo Middle School, 1401 Dennis Avenue. Free. Info: 301-424-3501.

Sunday, March 19

AUTHOR TALK: Mike Tidwell discusses his book Bayou Farewell: the rich life and tragic death of Louisiana's Cajun Coast, focusing on the moral implications surrounding Hurricane Katrina and our rapidly changing climate. 9:30 AM. Takoma Park Presbyterian Church, 310 Tulip Avenue. Free. Info: 301-270-5550.

CONCERT: DC Youth Chamber Orchestra. 4 PM. Smithsonian National Zoological Park Auditorium, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, DC. Info: 202-723-1612.

GARDENING: Orchid Festival, regional vendors display and sale. 10 AM-3 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

BOOK SIGNING: Allen St. John discusses and signs Clapton's Guitar: Watching Wayne Henderson Build the Perfect Guitar. Craftsman Henderson also present. 3 PM. Borders Books and Café, 8518 Fenton Street, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-585-0550.

Monday, March 20

ASTRONOMY: The Rites of Spring, the Vernal Equinox. 7 PM Montgomery College Planetarium. Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Free. Info: www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/planet.

CONCERT: Wayne Henderson, featuring his new CD: Made and Played. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Rd., Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org.

Tuesday, March 21

CRAFTS: Knitting and Crochet Classes at Now & Then. (3 classes meet Tuesdays from 3/14- 3/28) "Beginning Knitting," Learn all the basics while making a scarf. 7-9 PM, Now & Then, 6927 Laurel Ave., TP. COST: $70, for all 3 classes. INFO: 301-270-2210

Wednesday, March 22

BUSINESS: After Hours Business Networking sponsored by Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. 5:30-7 PM. Office of Dr. Robert Manconi, 8757 Georgia Avenue, Suite 530, Silver Spring. Members free/others $10. RSVP: 301-565-3777 or www.gsscc.org.

CONCERT: John & Michelle Law, Canadian singer-songwriters with special guest Karen Collins. 8 PM. O'Brien's BBQ, 387 East Gude Drive, Rockville, MD. $15 general. Info: www.focusmusic.org

CONCERT: SFJAZZ Collective, featuring Joshua Redman, Bobby Hutcherson, and Nicholas Payton. 8 PM Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $18-55. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CRAFTS: Parent-Teen Pottery Workshop. Create unique pieces. 6:30-9 PM. Langley Park Community Center, 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville. $18 (non-PG resident). RSVP by March 13: 301-445-4508.

GARDENING: "Water Issues in Gardening" presentation by Jenny Reed and Lauren Wheeler of Natural Resources, Inc., a Takoma Park-based garden design firm. 7:30 PM. Heffner Park (Oswego Avenue near the Department of Public Works). Free. Info: Takoma Park Hort Club, email harristakoma@erols.com.

KIDS: Bear and Chipmunk, Native American Stories by Dovie Thomason. Sioux and Apache stories for 3-6 year olds as part of Jump Start with the Arts, sponsored by Class Acts Arts. 10:30 AM. Silver Spring Nursery School, 10309 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring (3 blocks north of beltway exit 28A, right on Oaklawn Drive). $6. Limited space; advance tickets: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org or by mail (send SASE and check payable to Class Acts Arts, PO Box 3580, Silver Spring, MD 20918).

MEETING: Takoma Park Folk Festival holds first planning meeting for this year's Festival st for September 15 at Takoma Park Middle School. Newcomers welcome. 7:30-9:30. Azalea Room, Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Info: www.tpff.com or 301-589-0202.

PARENTING: "You Can Dress Them up But you Can't Take Them Out."YMCA sponsors workshop on how to handle disrespectful kids. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. RSVP: 301-229-1347 or parenting@ymcada.org.

Thursday, March 23

CONCERT: Music in the Mansion: Pedja Muzijevic (piano), Tanya Tomkins (cello) 8 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $26. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

CONCERT: Classical Thursdays, All Mozart program. 8 PM Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

MUSIC: Junkyard Saints, New Orleans-style party music. 8-11 PM. Arrieros Restaurant and Nightclub, 7926 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. $8/adults; $5/students. Info: 301-495-9459 or www.junkyardsaints.com.

Friday, March 24

CONCERT: The Marian McPartland Trio, jazz sponsored by Washington Performing Arts Society. 8 PM Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-45. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

TEENS: Ice Skating. Teens only (bring ID). 8-10 PM Wheaton Ice Arena, 11717 Orebaugh, Wheaton Regional Park. $6 (with ID, includes skates). Info: 301-649-3640

Saturday, March 25

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL: Family Day explores Japanese arts, including origami pop-up art, and miniature gardens. 10 AM-5:30 PM. Opening Ceremony, 4-5:30 PM. Cherry Blossom Festival runs through April 1. National Building Museum, 401 F Street, NW, DC (entrance to Judiciary Square Metro). Free ($5 donation suggested). INFO: www.nbm.org

CONCERT: National Philharmonic Choral Masterworks: Brahms German Requiem. 8 PM.sMusic Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-80, 17 and under free. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

KIDS BOOK SIGNING: Jabari Asim (Post Book World) reads from his new children's book "Daddy Goes to Work" (ages 4-8). 4 PM. Borders Books, 8518 Fenton Street, Silver Spring. Free Info: www.bordersstores.com or 301-585-0550.

FILMS: Animated Environmental Film Festival, sponsored by National Geographic offers 5 Emmy nominated animated shorts. 1 PM. Grosvenor Auditorium, National Geographic Society, 1600 M Street NW. $8/adults $6/12 and under. Info: 202-857-7700 or www.nationalgeographic.com/nglive/washingtondc

MEETING: Pot Luck dinner at World Fellowship Center. Learn about World Fellowship, a progressive, beautiful, and affordable vacation, educational, and retreat center in New Hampshire's White Mountains. 6-9 PM. Call for directions and RSVP: Wally Malakoff, 301-587-5559.

MUSIC: The U-Liners plus special guests. 9:30PM. Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or (301) 585-1290

VOTER REGISTRATION: Sponsored by Montgomery County Board of Elections. 11AM-2PM. Takoma Park Library, 101 Philadelphia Avenue, Takoma Park . Info: 301-891-7259.

WORKSHOP: Arts for Teens and Adults, sponsored by College Park Arts Exchange. Use felting to create bowls and pouches. 1-4 PM. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, College Park. Fee: $15. Advance RSVP and payment: Mail to College Park Arts Exchange, PO Box 784, College Park, MD 20740, by March 15. Info: 301-474-2041.

WORKSHOP: Flannelboard stories. Caregivers learn techniques for telling flannelboard stories. (Repeat of November, 2005 workshop.) 10:30 AM. Silver Spring Library, Colesville Road. Free (but bring 18 x 18" piece of felt. Pre-register: 240-773-9420 beginning March 10.

Sunday, March 26

AUTHOR TALK: Mike Tidwell discusses his book "Bayou Farewell: the rich life and tragic death of Louisiana's Cajun Coast," focusing on the moral implications surrounding Hurricane Katrina and our rapidly changing climate. 9:30 AM. Takoma Park Presbyterian Church, 310 Tulip Avenue. Free. Info: 301-270-5550.

CONCERT: DC Youth Camber Orchestra Does Dvorak. 4 PM. Gala Theater (formerly the Tivoli Theater), at 3333 14th Street, NW, DC. Info: 202-723-1612 or www.dcyop.org

DANCE: "Under Southern Skies," by North Carolina Dance Theatre. 7 PM (free pre-concert talk at 5:30 PM). Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-45. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

FAMILIES: Arts Drop-In. Free-form arts afternoon for ages 3-8 with parent sponsored by College Park Arts Exchange. 2-4 PM, Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road at corner of Dartmouth Avenue in College Park. Free. Registration appreciated: 301-927-3013 or email info@cpae.org.

NATURE: Volunteer Day. Help spruce up Rock Creek trail. 2 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road, NW, DC. Free. Info: 202-895-6070 or www.nps.gov/rocr

Monday, March 27

CONCERT: John McCutcheon with special guest. Institute of Musical Traditions series. Songwriter extraordinare backed by John Jennings, Rani Arbo, Scott Kessell, Julie Wolf and J.T. Brown. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org.

Tuesday, March 28

CRAFTS: Knitting and Crochet Classes at Now & Then. (3 classes meet Tuesdays from 3/14- 3/28) "Beginning Knitting," Learn all the basics while making a scarf. 7-9 PM, Now & Then, 6927 Laurel Ave., TP. COST: $70, for all 3 classes. INFO: 301-270-2210

CRAFTS - Knit & Crochet at Savory, informal gathering, all experience levels welcome. 7 PM, Savory Café, 7071 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. FREE. Info: Jennifer at 301-587-7174 or Genia at geniaknits@gmail.com

FILM SHOWING. The Freedom You Will Take: A Century of African American Arts, by Denise A. Greene. Part of the Silver Spring African American Film Series. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, Info: 240-773-9420

FREE SEMINAR: "Emotional Intelligence" by Dr. Norman Rosenthal. Part of Montgomery County Continuing Education Seminars. 9:30 AM-12:30 PM. Universities at Shady Grove, 9630 Gudelsky Drive, Building II. Rockville. Free. Register by March 20 at www.montgomerycounty.gov

ICE CREAM SOCIAL: Review Takoma Park Cultural Arts Plan and network with local Arts & Humanities Commission. 7-9 PM, Takoma Park Community Center, Philadelphia & Maple Aves., TP. INFO: 301-891-7224 or www.takomagov.org

MEDIA FESTIVAL: Showcase for Student Media Festival includes photography, graphic design, video, animation, multimedia and website design. Awards given. 10 AM-4 PM. AFI Silver Theatre, Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-670-2214 or www.afi.edu/silver

Wednesday, March 29

CONCERT: Murray Perahia (piano), sponsored by Washington Performing Arts Society. 8 PM.sMusic Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-85. INFO: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

FASHION SHOW AND BOOK SIGNING: Rosemary Reed Miller, local fashion designer, profiles African American dressmakers and designers from 1850-present, via her book Threads of Time, the Fabric of History plus a fashion show. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-565-7505.

PERFORMANCE: Laura Burhenn, singer-songwriter Artist in Residence. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $10. INFO: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

Thursday, March 30

COLLEGE: Montgomery College "CAP" Info. College Access Program for students with learning disabilities, designed for current high school juniors or seniors. 7-9 PM. Free. Info: call 301-279-5058 (TTY 301-294-9672) or www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/lcpr.

DANCE: Eiko & Koma, Cambodian Stories. 8 PM, repeated Friday & Saturday. Kogod Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $20. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

DEMOCRACY: Monthly meeting of the Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club. This month, hosting Congressman Al Wynn. 7:30 PM, at the Christ Congressional Church (basement meeting room) 9525 Colesville Rd., SS. No RSVP required. INFO: raltex@aol.com.

Friday, March 31

KIDS: Banjo Man Frank Cassel, an interactive banjo-pickin' good time., for ages 2-7. 10 AM, repeated 11:30 Am., Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW, DC, next to Smithsonian Castle. $6/adult, $4/child. Info: 202-357-3030.

MUSIC: Rhodes Tavern Troubadours. Come celebrate with this fun roots rock band for its recently awarded WAMMIES-- winning best rock band for its 4th time and 2006 rock musician of the year for guitarist Dave Chappell. 9:30 PM, Half Moon BBQ, 8235 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD. INFO: halfmoonbbq.com or www.rttkids.com

Scroll below to sneak preview local events
scheduled in April and Beyond.
Be sure to check back on April 1st for
a complete listing of that month's happenings.

Saturday, April 1

CONCERT: Yundi Li (piano) plays Mozart, Schumann, Chopin, Liszt. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-35. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CONCERT: Balkan Brothers. Silk Road melodies and Balkan rhythms. Institute of Musical Traditions series. Workshops earlier in day(see below; performance at 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org. or www.raks-n-rhythsm.com

DANCE: Eiko & Koma, Cambodian Stories. 8 PM, repeated Friday & Saturday. Kogod Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $20. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

FAMILY: Salvadoran Fiesta. Food, music and stories to benefit International Partners' annual trip to El Salvador. Washington Ethical Society, 7750 16th Street, NW near Lamia and 16th. For details call 301-674-9976.

VOLUNTEER: Brookside Open House to recruit volunteers. 10 AM-2 PM. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: 301-962-1400 or www.brooksidegardens.org.

VOTER REGISTRATION: 11 AM-2 PM, Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring. Info: 240-773-9420

WORKSHOP: Balkan Brothers offer percussion classes for beginners (11 AM-noon), advanced (noon-3 PM) and intermediate accordian (12-3 PM). Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. Fees from $15-40/Adv or $20-50/Door depending on class Includes 7:30 performance. Info: www.raks-n-rhythms.com

Sunday, April 2

Monday, April 3

CONCERT: La Vent du Nord, folksingers from Canada. Institute of Musical Traditions series. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Rd., Rockville. $14/Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org.

Tuesday, April 4

ICE CREAM SOCIAL: Review Takoma Park Cultural Arts Plan and network with local Arts & Humanities Commission. 7-9 PM, Takoma Park Community Center, Philadelphia & Maple Aves., TP. INFO: 301-891-7224 or www.takomagov.org

POETRY: Michael Glaser, Poet Laureate of Maryland with Don Berger, Poet Laureate of Takoma Park. 1 PM the TP/SS Campus: RSVP required: francine.jamin@montgomerycollege.edu or phone (301) 650-1385.

POETRY: Takoma DC Library Spring Series. Readings by local poets Sarah Browning, Camille Dungy and Piotr Gwiazda. 7:30 PM, Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar NW, DC. Free. Info: 202-576-7252.

DANCE: Phoenix Dance Theatre, repertory. 8 PM, repeated Wednesday, April 5. 8 PM. Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $30. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

Wednesday, April 5

BOOK GROUP: Marilynne Robinson's Housekeeping looks at the price of loss and survival as it follows the story of Ruth and Lucille growing up in the far West. 7:30 PM. Takoma Park Library, Philadelphia Avenue at Maple, Takoma Park. Info: 301-891-7259 or www.ftpml.org.

BOOK GROUP: The House on Childress Street: A Memoirby Kenjii Jasper. Africa-American Book Series. 7:30 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Rd., SS. Info: 301-565-7505.

DANCE: Phoenix Dance Theatre, repertory. 8 PM, repeated Wednesday, April 5. 8 PM. Dance Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $30. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

KIDS: "Get Excited About Trees," celebrates Arbor Day. Ages 4-7 watch Dr. Seuss' Lorax and make puppet. 4-5 PM. Visitors Center Classroom, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. $5/child, must register in advance using ParkPASS (www.ParkPASS.org or call 301-495-2580). Info: 301-962-1400 or www.brooksidegardens.org.

WORSHIP: Trinity Episcopal Preaching Mission and Revival. First of three days, Great preaching, music and fellowship. 7-8:30 PM. 7005 Piney Branch Road, NW, DC Free. Info: 202-726-7036.

Thursday, April 6

CONCERT: BSO at Strathmore: Monet and the Impressionists. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $21-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

LECTURE: What's New? Recent Advances in the Treatment of Language Disorders, 7-9 PM. The Barrie School, 13500 Layhill Road, Silver Spring. $25. RSVP: 301-576-2866 or mfrankel@barrie.org.

WORSHIP: Trinity Episcopal Preaching Mission and Revival. Second of three days, Great preaching, music and fellowship! 7-8:30 PM. 7005 Piney Branch Road, NW, DC Free. Info: 202-726-7036.

Friday, April 7

DANCE: Phoenix Dance Theatre, Planted Seeds.8 PM, repeated Sat, April 8. 8 PM. Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $30. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

GALLERY TALK: Photographer Barbara Tyroler discusses Beijing Impressions, a collage of her visit to China. 6:30-7:30 PM. Exhibit runs through June 2. Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel. Free. Info: 301-953-1993.

WORSHIP: Trinity Episcopal Preaching Mission and Revival. Final of three days. Great preaching, music and fellowship! 7-8:30 PM. 7005 Piney Branch Road, NW, DC Free. Info: 202-726-7036.

Saturday, April 8

CONCERT: National Philharmonic Symphonic Blockbusters, "Pictures." 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-80, 17 and under free. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

DANCE: Phoenix Dance Theatre, Planted Seeds.8 PM, repeated Sat, April 8. 8 PM. Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Maryland, intersection of University Blvd. and Stadium Drive. $30. Info: 301-405-ARTS or www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

KIDS: Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by City of Takoma Park. Ages 8 and under, groups divided by age. 11 AM, sharp! Ed Wilhelm Field, 7510 Maple Avenue, behind Piney Branch Elementary School. Free; see also Arbor Day Celebration at Library. Info: 301-891-7290.

KIDS: Arbor Day and Free Tree Giveaway, sponsored by City of Takoma Park. Annual giveaway of seedling trees. 10 AM-2 PM. Front Lawn of Library, Philadelphia at Maple Avenues. Free. Info: 301-891-7612.

NATURE: Arbor Day Celebration and Free Tree Giveaway, sponsored by City of Takoma Park. TIME: TBA, Lawn of Takoma Park Library, Philadelphia at Carroll Avenues. Free. Info: www.cityofTakomaPark.org/pw/arborist

Sunday, April 9

FESTIVAL: 6th Annual Tastes of Takoma. International Food, local bands, Latin dancers, and children's activities. Noon-6 PM, Columbia Union College grounds, 7600 Flower Avenue, Takoma Park. Info: 301-891-4516.

KIDS: Flower Buds offers gardening, stories, crafts and garden walks (ages 3-5 with parent). 10:30-11:30 AM. Visitors Center Classroom, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. $2/child, must register in advance using ParkPASS (www.ParkPASS.org or call 301-495-2580). Info: 301-962-1400 or www.brooksidegardens.org.

Monday, April 10

CONCERT: Zoe Mulford CD Release. Institute of Musical Traditions Series. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org.

Tuesday, April 11

Wednesday, April 12

Thursday, April 13

CONCERT: Lang Lang (piano), sponsored by Washington Performing Arts Society. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-75. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

NATURE: Full Moon Hikes. Five mile hike through moonlit arboretum gardens and collections. 7-9 PM. National Arboretum, Enter through R Street gate, 24th & R Streets NE, off Bladensburg Road. $15. Reservations required: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

Friday, April 14

CONCERT: "Mozart's "Requiem" and "Seven Last Words from the Cross." Choral Arts Society of Washington. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $17-59. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

NATURE: Full Moon Hikes. Five mile hike through moonlit arboretum gardens and collections. 7-9 PM. National Arboretum, Enter through R Street gate Enter through R Street gate, 24th & R Streets, NE, off Bladensburg Road. $15. Reservations required: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

Saturday, April 15

GARDENING: Daffodil Show, one of largest and oldest on East Coast. 2-5 PM, also Sunday. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

MUSIC: Mary Sue Twohy with Ina May Wool, Dawson House Concert Series, 8 PM. $15. RSVP and directions: 301-949-1888 or email dawsonconcerts@aol.com.

Sunday, April 16

GARDENING: Daffodil Show, one of largest and oldest on East Coast. 9 AM-5 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

Monday, April 17

Tuesday, April 18

Wednesday, April 19

KIDS: Goombay. Caribbean Calypso for ages 3-6, as part of Jump Start with the Arts, sponsored by Class Acts Arts. 10:30 AM. Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, 6601 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda. $6. Limited space; advance tickets: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org or by mail (send SASE and check payable to Class Acts Arts, PO Box 3580, Silver Spring, MD 20918).

Thursday, April 20

CONCERT: Garth Newel Piano Quartet. 7:30 PM Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $26. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CONCERT: Elvis Costello and the BSO. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. 42-95. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

Friday, April 21

NATURE: Morning Azalea Tours offered by curator Barbara Bullock. This tour highlights the early-blooming varieties; also April 26 tour during peak bloom period. 10:30 AM-noon. National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue, NE, DC. $7. Limited space; registration required: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

PERFORMANCE: Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood from "Whose Line is it Anyway?" 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $32-65. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

Saturday, April 22

CONCERT: National Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra: Haydn, Salieri, Mozart. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-80, 17 and under free. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

GARDENING: Spring Plant Exchange. Open to members of Takoma Horticulture Club. New members can join at the event for only $12. 2 PM. Heffner Park, 31 Oswego Avenue, off Ritchie, Takoma Park. Info: www.takomagarden.net or 301-270-5481.

HISTORY: Marching Through Time. Re-enactors from first century Romans through 20th century WWII encampments, camp life, crafts, drills; also merchants. 11 AM-5 PM. Marietta Mansion, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale, near intersection of Route 450 and Route 193W (also shuttle from Glenn Dale Community Center). $8/adults; $3/ages 4-18. Info: 301-464-5291 or www.pgparks.com

KIDS: Art Talk and Tour. "Baltimore Watercolor Society Exhibit. 10:15 AM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $10/family. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

Sunday, April 23

CONCERT: AGA-BOOM, circus theatre. 2 PM, repeated 7 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $12-50. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

HISTORY: Marching Through Time. Re-enactors from first century Romans through 20th century WWII encampments, camp life, crafts, drills; also merchants. 11 AM-5 PM. Marietta Mansion, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale, near intersection of Route 450 and Route 193W (also shuttle from Glenn Dale Community Center). $8/adults; $3/ages 4-18. Info: 301-464-5291 or www.pgparks.com

HISTORY: Walk Takoma's Dinky Line Trolley Route. Historic Takoma's Clair Garmen traces the route of trolley that linked Old Takoma to the short-lived Wildwood Resort on the banks of Sligo Creek. 1-3 PM. Meet at Takoma Silver Spring Co-op, Ethan Allen at Carroll Avenue. Free, part of weekend long series of WalkingtownDC.

Monday, April 24

Tuesday, April 25

Wednesday, April 26

LECTURE: "Fort Stevens and the Invasion of DC" by Dr. Cooling, Army War College. 7:30 PM. Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Ave, Rockville. Free. Info: 301-240-2974 or www.montgomeryhistory.org.

NATURE: Morning Azalea Tours offered by curator Barbara Bullock. This tour highlights the early-blooming varieties; April 26 tour occurs during peak bloom period. 10:30 AM-noon. National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue, NE, DC. $7. Limited space; registration required: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

PERFORMANCE: Keith Killgo, jazz percussion, Artist in Residence. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $10. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

Thursday, April 27

CONCERT: Lila Downs, vocalist of Mixtec and Scottish-American heritage. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $18-34. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

DEMOCRACY: Monthly meeting of the Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club. This month, hosting all candidates running for delegate and state senator of MD's District 20. Bring your questions and get informed. 7:30 PM, at the Christ Congressional Church (basement meeting room) 9525 Colesville Rd., SS. No RSVP required. INFO: raltex@aol.com.

Friday, April 28

CONCERT: Yolanda Adams, BET's Best Gospel Artist 4 years running. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $33-65. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org.

FAIR: Blair Fair and Silent Auction. Diversity of Blair's student body on display from academic programs, art and photography exhibit, and after school clubs plus Mr. Blazer contest. The PTA also holds a silent auction as fundraiser. 4-8 PM. Montgomery Blair High School, 55 University West at Colesville Ave. Info: www.mbhs.edu.

Saturday, April 29

CRAFTS - Knit & Crochet at Savory, informal gathering, all experience levels welcome. 7 PM, Savory Café, 7071 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. FREE. Info: Jennifer at 301-587-7174 or Genia at geniaknits@gmail.com

DANCE: Spring Fling. Come dance to the hot tunes of the award-winning Montgomery Blair High School Jazz Bands. Swing, tango, waltz and cha cha the night away. Great dance music for beginning and experienced dancers. Win prizes, bid on gift baskets and support your local high school musicians. 7:30-11PM, Blazer SAC at MBHS, 51 University Blvd., SS. Tickets: $8/adv or $10/door. INFO or advance ticket purchase: 301-649-2839.

GALA: Evening with Lily Tomlin. 5 PM. Benefit for Strathmore. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $100-1000. Info: 301-581-5133 or www.strathmore.org.

GARDENING: Azalea Show, regional vendors display and sale. 1-5 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org. or 301-962-1400.

GARDENING: Bonsai Exhibit and Demonstration. 9 AM-5 PM. Rose Garden, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

GARDENING: 15th Annual Garden Fair and Plant Sale. Sale of thousands of plants including annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs. Free lectures, kids' activities, and food vendors. Supports National Arboretum. 9 AM-4 PM. ("Leftover sale", Sunday April 30, 10 AM-1 PM). New York Avenue Parking Lot, National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue, NE, DC. Free admission and parking. Info: 202-245-5898 or www.usna.usda.gov.

WALKING TOUR: Town of Glen Echo, led by Carlotta Anderson, author of recently published "Walking Tour." 10 AM-12:30 PM. Starting from Glen Echo Town Hall, 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo. $6. RSVP required: 301-340-2825 or www.montgomeryhistory.org.

Sunday, April 30

GARDENING: Azalea Show, regional vendors display and sale. 1-5 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

Monday, May 1

Tuesday, May 2

Wednesday, May 3

Thursday, May 4

Friday, May 5

Saturday, May 6

Sunday, May 7

Monday, May 8

Tuesday, May 9

Wednesday, May 10

Thursday, May 11

Friday, May 12

Saturday, May 13

Sunday, May 14

Monday, May 15

Tuesday, May 16

Wednesday, May 17

Thursday, May 18

Friday, May 19

TEENS: Ice Skating, teens only. 8-10 PM Wheaton Ice Arena, 11717 Orebaugh, Wheaton Regional Park. $6 (with ID, includes skates). Info: 301-649-3640

Saturday, May 20

Sunday, May 21

Monday, May 22

Tuesday, May 23

Wednesday, May 24

Thursday, May 25

Friday, May 26

Saturday, May 27

Sunday, May 28

Monday, May 29

Tuesday, May 30

Wednesday, May 31

Thursday, June 1

Friday, June 2

Saturday, June 3

Sunday, June 4

Monday, June 5

Tuesday, June 6

Wednesday, June 7

Thursday, June 8

Friday, June 9

Saturday, June 10

PERFORMANCE: Tappers With Attitude 15 Year Anniversary Gala. 7:30 PM, Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the Univ of MD. Tickets: 301-405-ARTS or visit claricesmithcenter.umd.edu