Smithsonian.com

Flamingo (1932) by Paul Manship. Certainly a step up from the pink plastic front lawn variety of flamingo, yes? Image courtesy of the American Art Museum.

Saturday, March 14: Bird House Interpreters

Well, everybody knows that the bird is the word—but what’s the word on the birds? Come to the National Zoo and chat with the on-staff bird interpreters who will answer your questions and introduce you to the fascinating world of high-flying critters by way of feathers, bones and eggs. Free. National Zoo, 1-4 PM

Sunday, March 15: Zydeco: From an Innocent Past to a Jubilant Future

One thing I remember about road trips with my father is the sound of Beausoleil blasting out of the car speakers. While it wasn’t my favorite music at the time, I’ve since been able to acknowledge that cajun music can be pretty darn fun to listen to, especially if you experience it live. (And I just learned not to care that I don’t know what the heck they’re singing.) Come out to the Anacostia museum to learn how this distinctive style of music came to be through a presentation by Frederick E. Carter (The Zydeco Cowboy) and musical performances by Little Red and the Renegades. Free, but seating is limited. Call 202-633-4866 or send an e-mail tothomasa@si.edu to reserve your seat today. Anacostia Museum, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM.