Shipgarten welcomes kiddos to join the St. Patrick’s Day excitement, at a festival hosted by storybook characters Merida and Peter Pan. Children can get their faces painted, play on the playground, jump around in a moon bounce, and participate in a magic show featuring Jake the Great; dogs are welcome, too (free).

St. Patrick’s Day falls on Monday this year, which means the Irish and Irish at heart get to enjoy a whole weekend of celebrations in addition to the day itself. There are festivals, traditional music and dancing, as well as pubs filled with cheer.

Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken: The Shirlington outpost of this doughnut shop hosts a festive mini doughnut decorating event ($15) on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 4005 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, Virginia