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• Free: An Evening With Chasten Buttigieg

  • When
    06/01/2023
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    MLK, Jr. Library - 901 G Street NW
  • Spaces left
    0

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  Rainbow Families DC is delighted to be a part of an incredible evening.  

  We hope you will join us!  Limited seats available!

  

  
  

  About the Event:

  Join us for a live, in-person event with Chasten Buttigieg and NPR's Ari Shapiro. To celebrate the release of the young adult adaptation of his memoir— I Have Something to Tell You (For Young Adults)—adults of all ages, parents, and kids are welcome at this event where Chasten will speak with NPR's Ari Shapiro about his experience coming out and his journey to finding acceptance and self-love; and how to support younger generations. Chasten’s ultimate goal is to show young people that they are not alone and to inspire them to forge their own path to acceptance.

  
  

  Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event.  A limited number will be given away courtesy of the DC Public Library Foundation.

  
  

  About the Book:

  Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen. So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all. Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it’s never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.

  Please limit each order to a maximum of 4 seats
  

  
  

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• Visit us at Reston Pride!

  • When
    06/03/2023
  •  
    12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Lake Anne Plaza, 11402 Washington Plaza W, Reston, VA 20190

  
  

  
  

   Be sure to visit the Rainbow Families booth and say hello!

  It's FREE, Family-Friendly, and a Beautiful Location

  
  

  
  

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• DSRF: Divorced & Separated Rainbow Families

  • When
    06/03/2023
  •  
    6:00 PM - 7:15 PM
  • Location
    zoom
  • Spaces left
    17

  Register

  

  
  

  note:  time change for june 3 - now 6pm ET

  LGTQ+ Divorced & Separated Rainbow Families Parents

    DSRF is a peer-based, informal support group for divorced or separated LGBTQ+ parents going through divorce or separation (or who already are divorced).    Non-parents are welcome to participate, with the understanding that discussions will include topics of parenthood & divorce/separation.

  This is an excellent  opportunity to come together as a community to discuss and share resources, laugh and learn about commonalities and differences, as well as dig deeper into the experiences that unite us.    Meetings held virtually.

  Available to participants nationally.  Rainbow Families membership not required
  April 1   |  May 6  | June 3, 2023
  NO COST for Rainbow Familes members

   

  
  

  
  

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• Rainbow Families Trans Parents Group

  • Start
    06/07/2023
  •  
  • End
    09/06/2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual
  • Spaces left
    8

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  Our community asked, and Rainbow Families delivered!  Our newest group is designed to allow participants to share concerns, triumphs, experiences and more, related to being a Trans/GNC parent (or prospective parent).  

  
  

  • Sessions are Virtual - Available Nationwide - Rainbow Families Membership Not Required
  • No registration fee for Rainbow Families Members
  • For participants in the greater Washington DC region, we may also consider outings or other in-person gatherings for our families.  Details will not be shared publicly.

  
  

  It is hoped registrants will attend all  sessions to receive the most benefit and engagement from this type of group.   Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy and safety to interact.
  

  If you would like a fee waiver, reach out in confidence at support@rainbowfamilies.org
  No refunds. Dates/times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.

  
  

  
   

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• RFDC Capital Pride Parade

  • When
    06/10/2023
  •  
    2:30 PM
  • Location
    15th Street NW
  • Spaces left
    66

  It's a tradition!  Rainbow Families DC has walked in the Capital Pride parade since 1998!  It's great for our families to experience - the cheering, support and outpouring of love from the onlookers is truly special. 

  More info to follow as we learn more.  This is what we know so far!

  We will gather/stage on 15th Street NW, between 1:00pm and 2:30 pm.  Look for the Rainbow Families Banner, plus we will send out more information about our exact location to all registrants.

  The official step off is 14th Street at T Street NW, at 3:00 pm.  The route will finish on P Street at 21st Street NW - approx. 90 minutes after the parade begins.

  
  

  
  

  Here's one from our archives!  Were YOU there? 

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• No Fee - Family Pride Picnic at the Park

  • When
    06/17/2023
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    Museum of Contemporary Art - Arlington 3550 Wilson Blvd

  
  

  Bring a blanket, some sunscreen, a picnic lunch and join the fun! We're hosting an afternoon of incredible activities to delight the whole family.

  We are grateful to the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington in partnering with Rainbow Families DC putting together this fantastic picnic.  It's for all to join together in celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community.    Happy Pride!

  Registration not required, we look forward to seeing all our incredible Rainbow Families there!

  What to Expect? 

  - Art Making Activities

  - Live DJ

  - Performances

  -Reading from Local Children's Author, Vicki Johnson, "Molly's Tuxedo" based on her experiences growing up as a "non-traditional" person.

  Location

  -Directly across from the Virginia Square Metro - MOCA Arlington is the building with large columns

  -Free parking available at the Museum - first come, first served (Metro is recommended!)

  
  

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• QPOC Virtual Juneteenth Community Discussion

  • When
    06/19/2023
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Zoom Link

  Register

  
  

  Join us for a virtual Juneteenth Community Discussion including navigating academic, professional, and social spaces as Queer Families of Color.   When and how to have conversations with our children to prepare them for the many facets of their identity.

  Let's exchange stories, resources, and support.

  

  
  

  
  

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• Single Parent by Choice Support Group

  • When
    06/20/2023
  •  
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Virtual
  • Spaces left
    12

  Register

  
  

  
  Rainbow Families is pleased to continue this very well-received support group for Spring 2023.   This VIRTUAL support group is for current LGBTQ+ single parents, and for prospective parents considering single parenting.   In these meetings, we'll discuss the joys, concerns, questions, even frustrations of being a single LGBTQ+ parent, PLUS choosing to do so without a partner.  This group is facilitated by a highly regarded Psychologist, for two years running. These peer-based groups are not to be considered a replacement for therapy or counseling, however.

  
  

  2023 Spring  Dates:    May 16  |  June 20      We will take the summer off and resume in September.

  
  

  Sessions are Virtual - Available Nationwide - Rainbow Families Membership Not Required

  No Charge for Rainbow Families members

  
  

  It is hoped registrants will attend all 3 sessions to receive the most benefit from this type of support group.   Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy and safety to interact.

  If registration fee is prohibitive, reach out in confidence at support@rainbowfamilies.org
  No refunds. Dates/times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.

  
  

  
  

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• RFDC TransParents Gathering

  • When
    06/24/2023
  •  
    10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

  Rainbow Families' TransParents and their families will gather for a "picnic brunch" in DC for some community building and opportunities to further engage on shared experiences.   But mostly?  To have some family fun!

  The location is not being shared publicly, however this page will soon have an RSVP form.   RSVP's will be reviewed, and we'll send more details or reach out if we have any questions.

  Thank you!  See you soon!

  

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• Expecting & New Parent Support Group

  • Start
    06/25/2023
  •  
  • End
    07/30/2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Zoom
  • Spaces left
    20

  Register

  

  
  

  Rainbow Families is delighted to continue our Support Group for LGBTQ+ people who are currently expecting a child (via adoption, surrogacy, pregnancy, foster, pregnancy), or new to parenthood with a child under 9 months.  

  
  

  This program is facilitated by a licensed psychologist who specializes in reproductive health.  These are peer-based groups and not to be considered a replacement for therapy or counseling.

  Dates:    June 25  |  July 30,  2023
  Registration closes once series begins.  

  Sessions are virtual and open to participants nationwide

  No Charge for Rainbow Families members

  
  

  Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy and safety to interact.

  If you would like a fee waiver, reach out in confidence at support@rainbowfamilies.org
  No refunds. Dates/times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.

  
  

  
  Facilitated by:  Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington

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• Pre-Conception Support Group

  • Start
    06/25/2023
  •  
  • End
    07/30/2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Zoom
  • Spaces left
    19

  Register

  
  

  Rainbow Families is pleased to continue our Support Group for LGBTQ+ people seriously considering or going through Assisted Reproductive Technology as part of their family planning journey.

  This program is facilitated by a licensed psychologist who specializes in reproductive health.  These are peer-based groups and not to be considered a replacement for therapy or counseling.

  Dates:      June 25  |  July  30
  Registration Closes once Series Begins 

  Sessions are Virtual - Available Nationwide - Rainbow Families Membership Not Required
  No Charge for Rainbow Families Members

  If you would like a fee waiver, reach out in confidence at support@rainbowfamilies.org
  No refunds. Dates/times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.

  
  

  
  

  
  Facilitated by:  Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington

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• QPOC Bowling Playdate

  • When
    07/08/2023
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Eleanor Bowling Lounge, Bar & Grill - Silver Spring MD

  Save the Date!  More info to follow!

  
  

  
  

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• FREE: Family Movie Night Under the Stars

  • When
    07/08/2023
  •  
    6:45 PM
  • Location
    Burgundy Farm Country School, 3700 Burgundy Road, Alexandria VA

  Register

  Summer time is the perfect time for a Rainbow Families
  Family Movie Night Under the Stars!

  

  In what we hope will become an annual summer tradition, let's all gather at Burgundy Farm Country School for a Family Outdoor Movie.  Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, a picnic dinner/snacks.  We'll gather about 6:45, and the movie will begin about 8pm.

  We are offering the event at no cost, but are seeking a donation when you register, as part of our Summer Fundraising effort.  Thank you.

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• Howard County Family Gathering & Picnic

  • When
    07/23/2023
  •  
    11:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    6105 Rockburn Branch Park Rd, Elkridge, MD 21075
  • Spaces left
    68
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  Yes!  We're excited to continue this popular event with our families.  Not only is this a great summer event for us, it's falling on Parents Day!  Join us at the gorgeous Rockburn Branch Pavillion  in Elkridge, MD

  Stonewall Kickball's The Real Housegays of Washington will be with us again for some fun on the field for the kids (and grown-ups)!  We had so much fun with them last year (and with our special guest Tara Hoot).

  

  Great weather, lawn games, families hanging out in the shade under the Pavillion, and new friendships formed.  Bring your lunch, snacks, sunscreen, perhaps some toys to share!

   
  

  
  

  Registration fee is per-family  (not per person)  which makes it more affordable, yet still helps us with the Pavillion rental and other expenses.  If the fee is cost prohibitive, please email us  in confidence for a waiver.    No refunds, this is a rain or shine gathering.

  
  

  MAP OF PARK AND WHERE TO MEET
  

  
  

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• QPOC Virtual Resource Fair

  • When
    08/13/2023
  •  
    7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  SAVE THE DATE!  MORE DETAILS COMING SOON

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Family Camp Weekend 2023

  • Start
    09/02/2023
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • End
    09/04/2023
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • Location
    Camp Tockwogh, 24370 Still Pond Neck Rd, Worton, MD 21678

  
  

  Family Camp Weekend 2023
  We had an incredible Camping Weekend in 2022 -  Swimming, Dance Party, Toddler Zone, Story Times, S'mores, Boat Rides, Archery and so much more!
  

  We're ready for a repeat in 2023

  As always, this will sell out shortly once registration opens (Mar '23)

  

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• Annual Family Picnic at Hillwood Estate

  • When
    09/24/2023
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

  
  

       
  

  One of Rainbow Families Most Treasured Events For 15 Years

  Connect with other LGBTQ+ families at the historic Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens'  gorgeous urban oasis. This event is open to all - members, families, allies.
  

  
  

  Registration Info to follow soon!

  
  

         Festivities scheduled to include:

  • Pack a picnic from home or purchase food from Merriweather To Go to enjoy outdoors  on Hillwood's spacious Lunar Lawn
  • Play games on the lawn, such as hula hoop, ring toss, and jump rope
  • Practice your putt on the Putting Green
  • Create an art project to take home after exploring the mansion
  • Explore the special exhibition Grace of Monaco: Princess in Dior
  • Arrive by 12 noon to join Rainbow Families for welcoming remarks and our classic three-legged race on the lawn at 1 p.m.   Hillwood remains open until 5 p.m. You are welcome to stay and enjoy all the estate has to offer.

  PICNIC INFO:

  • Please bring your own picnic blankets for seating on the lawn. Visitors may wish to bring bug spray.  Hillwood's liquor license does not allow patrons to bring in outside alcohol.  Food and drinks, including beer and wine, will be available from Merriweather To Go.
  • Click here to see how Hillwood is following the latest health and safety guidance.
  • This is rain or shine.  In the event of rain, picnicking will take place under the shelter of the tent in the C.W. Post Courtyard and the art project will take place indoors
  • Registrations  (on the Hillwood link, posted soon) are between you and Hillwood, however you agree to Rainbow Families standard rules & terms

  
  

  Important:   Rainbow Families does not want financial constraints to prohibit attendance at our events.  If you need registration assistance for this or any event, please email our Executive Director, Darren Vance  in confidence.   
  While  this is a Hillwood Estate hosted event; please review our standard terms & conditions here regarding liability and photos.

  
  

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• Non Gestational Parent Support Group

  • Start
    10/01/2023
  •  
  • End
    12/03/2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual
  • Spaces left
    19

  Register

  
  

  Rainbow Families proudly continues our Support Group for LGBTQ+ parents (and about-to-be parents) who are non-gestational carriers, regardless of gender or path to parenthood, to discuss concerns, roadblocks, triumphs and experiences related to being a non-gestational parent.
  

  2023 Winter Dates:  Oct 1    |  Nov 5   |  Dec 3 

  
  

  Sessions are Virtual - Available Nationwide - Rainbow Families Membership Not Required
  Free for Rainbow Families Members

  During each session, the group will discuss topics related to experiences as a non-gestational parent ranging from pre-conception through parenting children up to age 5.   Topics may include legal concerns, medical concerns, social concerns, parenting concerns and experiences/concerns of being "othered."

   It is hoped registrants will attend all sessions to receive the most benefit from this type of support group.   Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy and safety to interact.
  

  If you would like a fee waiver, reach out in confidence at support@rainbowfamilies.org
  No refunds. Dates/times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.

  
  

  
   

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• Great Wolf Lodge Weekend 2023

  • Start
    10/06/2023
  •  
    4:00 PM
  • End
    10/08/2023
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • Location
    Great Wolf Lodge, Williamsburg VA
  • Spaces left
    11

  Register

  
  Rainbow Families' Annual Great Wolf Lodge Weekend 

  

  Another fantastic discounted rate JUST FOR US:  $229 per room, per night 

  • PLUS -  $30 daily resort fee?   WAIVED!     
  • PLUS -  Free WiFi 
  • PLUS - 10% off on all Food & Beverage purchases
  • Limited availability -  First-come, first- served.  Minimum participation is required to qualify for this rate
  • Check in 4 pm Friday.  Check out 11 am Sunday.  You can arrive earlier to pre-check in and receive passes to enjoy the waterpark until check in time
  • We plan to gather together for dinner Saturday as a group
  • Upgraded room categories are available at additional cost

  
  

  
  

  HOW TO REGISTER:  

  1.  Complete this registration form 
  2. You will receive an email with instructions on how to book your rooms directly with Great Wolf Lodge, using our private code.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Great Wolf Lodge has been extremely supportive of Rainbow Families. 
  It feels good to support businesses who support us

   

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• Annual Fall Gathering at Cox Farms

  • When
    11/05/2023
  •  
    10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  • Location
    Cox Farms, 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA 20120
  • Spaces left
    78

  Register

  
  

  A super fun Rainbow Families tradition for all ages, our Rainbow Families Annual Outing at Cox Farm's Fall Fest includes Giant Slides, Hayrides, Farm Animals & their Babies, Cornundrum Cornfield Adventure, Imaginature Trail, Rope Swings, Kiddie Zone, Goat Village, Straw Tunnels, Themed Play Areas, Live Entertainment, Local Apples & Fresh Cider and more.

  
  

  *First time? Learn more about the Cox Farms Fall Festival attractions HERE.  There is truly so much to enjoy here.

  *Safety is vital!  See Cox Farm's Covid guidelines HERE

  *Food options HERE (hint:  the donuts are so good)

  

  IMPORTANT:   If registration costs are prohibitive for your family,  email us in confidence.

  Please read the "Click for details" link above for important information.  Advance reservations are required through this event page. Cox Farms and their team are incredible allies and very supportive of Rainbow Families.  Thank you!  See you there!

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