Washington D.C. may seem like a place for stuffy politicians and museum-loving adults, but it isn't always the case. There are many wonderful and great activities available in D.C. for kids and teens. Depending on the time of year you go to visit Washington DC, you can always find something to do. All year round, there is a great calendar of events that offers so many superb activities for kids throughout the entire year.

In January, you can give kids a little education while still being part of a very fun event. The Inauguration Day is held on January 20. Even though this event only happens once every four years, but it is a very special event. After the inaugural speech, there is a colorful parade that follows the ceremony from the Capitol to the White House along Pennsylvania Avenue. Being part of this special occasion is, of course, free and its great for all kids, but would be especially interesting for those youngsters who have any interest in government or politics.

In February, there is another interesting parade takes place for the Chinese New Year. This very festive parade is fun for everyone, but if you have very small children or even those that are easily frightened, you should be warned that there will be several loud firecrackers and costumes that could be slightly scary. However, if the kids can handle the loud noises, they will see a cultural parade full of lions, dancers, dragons, and music makers. After the parade, you can fill up on the great Chinese cuisine.

If you are big on the Easter holidays in your house, nothing gets bigger than the White House Easter Egg Roll. This event takes place on Easter Monday on the South Lawn of the White House. Although it can be very crowded, most kids find it to be a pretty exciting event. The event is open to kids eight and under. However, it is necessary to call and check the event before planning to attend. Because of heightened security following September 11, the event sometimes has limited admission.

No one does Independence Day better than our nation's capital. To start the Independence Day celebration, the day begins with a parade along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets. The Sylvan Theater on the Washington Monument grounds offers entertainment all day. Then, at 8:00pm, the National Symphony plays on the Capitol's West Lawn and a giant fireworks display starts about 9:30pm.

In the fall, one great day to attend is called the D.C. Open House. The first Saturday and Sunday of October is the day when about 50 sites in 12 of the cities neighborhoods offer free walking tours and free admission to museums and performances. If you are on a budget or just simply happen to be in the area at this time of year, this a great day to take advantage of. For more information, check out www.culturaltourismdc.org.

December is a great time to be in D.C. Several festivals and events involving the lighting of trees, a festival of lights, or walking tours of holiday events are offered during the month of December. One of the best to attend is the People's Christmas Tree Lighting. The People's Christmas Tree is a giant tree that towers some sixty feet and is located on the west side of the Capitol. The annual lighting is accompanied by wonderful holiday music.

When traveling to D.C., still keep in mind that besides annual festivals and events that can be exciting and fun, other times that I didn't mention in this hub that are fun are the Cherry Blossom Festival, where cherry trees blossom with beautiful buds. This festival only lasts a week long, but is something no one can forget. And, of course, when traveling to Washington D.C., there are, also, museums, monuments, among other things that are just as exciting as the festivals.