Last year my husband and I attended Escape Velocity for the first time. We were impressed by Escape Velocity and can’t wait to return again this year with our boys. If you aren’t familiar with Escape Velocity or the Museum of Science Fiction (the host of the convention) than I’m sure you are curious as to what this is all about. Escape Velocity is a 3-day event featuring over-the-horizon technology and panels on hard science and pop culture. This is such a great event for kids to attend because of all the Hands-on STEAM activities available. I’m excited to release this guide in time to help families start planing for Escape Velocity 2018 which will be at National Harbor May 25-27, 2018. The museum of Science Fiction is prepared to provide hours of fun with entertaining and educational programs designed especially for kids, here is what to expect:

TOP TEN THINGS YOU WONT WANT TO MISS AT ESCAPE VELOCITY

  1. Take a Robot for a spin- Drive around a robot, learn all about how they move and operate!
  2. Stop by the NASA booth- Try on a virtual reality headset to see the vastness of space! 
  3. Explore the exhibitors hall-  Many booths offer hands on experiments. My favorite was playing around with the Van Der Graph generator and Tesla Sphere.92AFDB8D-8594-4913-BDB7-6E0CD94A4B8E.jpeg
  4. Attend a panel- Check out the schedule, there are tons of family fun workshops to attend! I’m excited about the educational and S.T.E.A.M. related workshops available. 
  5. Have some fun in the open game zone- in addition to the board game library, The Playful Parent will Be hosting a family board game library, where families can test out a variety of board games perfect for kids of all ages.
  6. Connect with your inner nerd- There were tons of organizations and clubs that focus on bringing to life your favorite movies and icons. You can get information on joining your local Ghost Busters, Rebel Legion or Imperial Regiment or  just check out their cool props. 
  7. Meet a princess- These princesses have beauty and brains. Each Princess is paired with a discipline of science. This organization was created to motivate girls to explore the science and technology field. 
  8. Don’t miss the Discovery Dome- Last year they were showing what it was like to experience a total solar eclipse. 
  9. Explore the escape room- Enter into a room where you have to put the clues together to escape.
  10. Make time to see the Museum of Science Fiction exhibit- Enjoy browsing through artwork, props and costumes from your favorite science fiction films. 

TIPS

  • Go in with a goal: This is my biggest tip!  When taking your kids you should consider what you want the experience to be about.  Check out the map and schedule of events to pick a few things you hope to do. It’s impossible to do everything, especially with little ones in tow.  Having a plan before going will make your trip less stressful and more enjoyable.
  • Consider Cos-Play Costumes- Let your kids pick what they would like to go as. Cosplay is a huge part of the experience, going in costume really makes the trip special and more fun. You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money on them, simple homemade or store-bought costumes are fine.
  • Capture moments on camera: Taking photos is one of the best parts.  I love watching everyone in costume and I’ve noticed kids and even adults too get very excited about having their picture taken with favorite characters. You will find that there is a huge sense of community and many fans dressed in costume are happy to pose for a shot.
  • Pack Snacks & Drinks: The food at the convention hall is insanely expensive and lines for food can be very long. I suggest throwing some water bottles or juice boxes and some easy snacks like granola bars, string cheese and fruit for snacks. Be sure to eat a good meal before going; while there eat what you’ve packed than head out to a nearby restaurant for dinner. I recommend Red Stone Grill.
  • Lost Plan: Before entering the hall, have a pre-designated meeting space in case you get separated and write your name and phone number on the back of the pass.
  • Set a Spending Limit: Conventions are like a glorified shopping excursion. Remember to set a budget and limit to spending.
  • Avoid becoming overwhelmed: conventions are huge.  It is very crowded so be sure to pay attention to your little ones needs. If you notice they are becoming overwhlemed take a break or call it a day.
  • Purchase tickets ahead of time: Be on the look out for coupon codes that make it free for kids ages 10 and under to attend the convention with an accompanying adult.

ESCAPE VELOCITY INFORMATION

DATE
May 25 – 27, 2018
LOCATION
Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center
201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745
TICKETS
Day Passes start at $25 per person. Children 10 and under are FREE!!! Ticket Link
PROGRAMS
Check out there awesome schedule here: Program Guide

GIVEAWAY DETAILS

The giveaway is open now through Monday April 9, 2018. One lucky family will be randomly drawn to win four weekend passes to Escape Velocity.

  • There are two ways to enter 1) Attend the Summer Camp Fair to enter your name in the drawing or 2) Enter via Facebook entry…
  • LIKE the post and COMMENT your favorite science genre (Earth Science, Astronomy, Technology, Chemistry etc.)
  • SHARE the love with friends by tagging and posting this on your page (NOT Mandatory.)
  • In order to win contestants MUST be a Playful Parent fan.
  • This giveaway is open to residents in the DMV area who are 18 years and older. Don’t have to have young kids in the house to win. You can be parents, grandparents or even aunties and uncles to win.

***This contest was brought to you by the Museum of Science Fiction and The Playful Parent; Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway.***