Visit Sumner Hall where interactive activities of call and response will pave the way for a presentation about famous Black watermen. Brief interactive introductions to the hand-clapping activity known as "Pattin' Juba" and also spoon playing offer a window to "down time" on ships throughout history. Two historic African American sailors will be highlighted: Robert Smalls (Civil War) and Dorie Miller (WWII), as a six minute video will feature Miller followed by master reader, Michele Towson, reading a beautiful picture book about Smalls. All ages welcome.
Join the incredible staff and volunteers from KidSpot to create a bay-themed craft. All craft supplies are provided free of charge so all you and your child need to do is bring your creativity.
Children of all ages, come to Sultana's Holt Center over Downrigging Weekend prepared to put your boatbuilding skills to the test. We provide aluminum foil, popsicle sticks, duct tape, etc. You provide the creativity and sheer genius required to build your own boat and compete with others to see how much it can hold. To say this is fun would be an understatement!
Are you or your young ones interested in getting close up with some live critters? If so, then Sultana's Holt Education Center is the place for you over Downrigging Weekend. The Holt Center will host an interactive animal exhibit with "Echoes of Nature" featuring live birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians from around the world and native to Maryland. Many of these animals have been adopted from rescues and shelters, and love to show off for audiences. Also in the Holt Center, the Sultana Education Foundation's program staff will help you get to know some of our own animal ambassadors up close and personal. Opportunities will abound to interact with numerous species of turtles, blue crabs, horseshoe crabs, a snake, and even a tarantula. Don't miss out on the chance to visit our animals and interact with them directly.
Get into the spirit of Downrigging by making your own custom sailor's hat. We provide the hat (one per child please!) and coloring gear. You provide the imagination and artistic skills. If all goes according to plan the result will be your very own gem of a sailor's cap you can wear for years with pride!
Join us for a special children's concert with former SEF staff member Ryan Kozel. A crazy talented guy who is also a wonder with children, Ryan is sure to have both you and the little ones splitting their sides with laughter. There's a chance we may even get Sultana's own Chris Cerino to join in as a special guest star. This performance will take place in Havemeyer Hall on the second floor of Sultana's Holt Center. There is limited space available so you may want to come early to ensure a seat.