Here is this week’s list of family-friendly free or frugal events for around the Northwest, as well as some events going on around the country.
We’ve also put together a big list of Pacific Northwest Fall Festivals including pumpkin patches & cider squeezes. Also some of the best places to view in the changing Pacific Northwest Autumn Foliage.
Don’t forget to check out Goldstar for Discount Tickets on many local activities and events, if you are looking for a specific event and want to save some money!
Annie: The Charming Musical Family Favorite (Seattle; 10/18; tickets start at $17 plus service fee)
James and the Giant Peach: Enchanting Family Musical Gives Warm Fuzzies (Portland; 10/19 Saturdays; tickets start at $11 plus service fee)
Children’s Singer-Songwriter Charlie Hope at Town Hall (Seattle; 10/19; tickets as low as FREE plus service fee)
ComedySportz Kidz Halloween Matinee — Frightfully Funny Improv for Families (Seattle; 10/26; tickets start at $4 plus service fee)
Orson Welles’s War of the Worlds by Seattle Radio Theatre (Seattle; 10/27; tickets as low as FREE plus service fee)
Disney Musical Beauty and the Beast (Portland; 12/14 – 12/28 select days; tickets as low as $19.13 plus service fee)
If you see a fun, frugal event that’s not listed, feel free to leave a comment so we can add that event to our list.
PUGET SOUND AREA::
Friday, October 18th :
*Paint Me a Story - Bellevue; 10/18; 10:00am – 10:30am or 10:30am – 11:00am; Join us for this popular weekly story time and painting activity. Ages 2 and older. Please check website for current schedules. No registration required. FREE
*Who’s That At Your Birdfeeder? – Bellevue; 10/18; 10:00am – 11:00am; Bring Mom or Dad and join a park ranger to find out who lives in your backyard and might visit your birdfeeder. You can make a birdfeeder to take home with your parent while the ranger reads a story about birds. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration is required. $2 to $3.
*Fall Festival – Carnation; 10/18 – 10/20; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Enjoy hay rides, puddle jumping (wear rubber boots), animals, pumpkin patch, food, kids’ activities and farm tours. Proceeds support the camp’s programs for kids with serious and life-altering medical conditions. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18-20.
*Nature Alphabet – Tacoma; 10/18; 10:30am – 11:30am; Preschoolers explore different nature topics through stories, hands-on activities, nature walks and crafts. Note – two location options: Tacoma Nature Center and Center at Norpoint. Adult participation is recommended, children younger than age 4 require an adult present. Space is limited, advance registration required. $6.
*Caspar Babypants Performance – Shoreline; 10/18; 11:00am; Caspar Babypants will perform some of his popular songs for kids. Call ahead for capacity information.
*Free Tête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 10/18; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Frye Museum entrance and parking are free all the time. You can check their events page here, for a list of weekly events.
*Pay-What-You-Can at Seattle Symphony’s “Soundbridge”- Seattle, Beneroya Hall; 10/18; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Soundbridge is a music discovery center and Friday afternoons are “Pay What You Can” entrance- suggested donation $5 – $15 per family; Ages 2-5, 30 minute interactive storytelling with song & rhythm, dance & musical instruments at 1:45pm.
*Harvest Fest – Tacoma; 10/18; 5:30pm – 7:30pm; Arts and crafts, bouncy houses and games.
*FREE Friday Night Live at Imagine Children’s Museum – Everett; 10/18; 5:30pm – 9:00pm; Imagine Children’s Museum offers FREE admission on the third Friday of each month, 5:30 to 9 p.m. All ages.
*Freaky Fall Festival – Seattle; 10/18; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Come in costume and enjoy carnival style games, a jump toy, crafts and more. Meet your neighbors, let your kids loose and have fun. Ages 12 and younger. $5, $15 family.
*Haunted House – Seattle; 10/18; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Come see the insane asylum haunted house created and directed by the Rav-Eck Teen programs. Proceeds benefit youth scholarships. Best for ages 7 and older. One entry per ticket. $5.
*Magical Mac and Cheese – Seattle; 10/18; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Turn your mac and cheese into a magical evening of dinner and entertainment. Xakary the Magician and his pet rabbit will mesmerize you with Halloween tricks while you dine. $5, $20 per family.
*Hamlin Halloween Haunt – Shoreline; 10/18; 6:00pm – 8:30pm; Enjoy spooky songs and tales told around a campfire, hayrides, games and more. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight.
*Goblin Splash – Mukilteo; 10/18; 7:00pm – 8:30pm; Wear a costume for games, prizes and refreshments. Bring a swimsuit for a ghostly swim. FREE swim with generous canned food or monetary donation.
Saturday, October 19th :
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 10/19 & 10/24; 10:00am – 11:00am; Introduce your toddler to nature with story time, songs, and fun activities inside, followed by exploration along the trails of Seward Park. Walks are easy and less than one mile in length. Pre-register, space is limited. Recommended for ages birth to 3. Cost: $2 per person.
*Halloween Carnival and Silent Auction – Shoreline; 10/19; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Join us for a day of family fun – obstacle course, food, games, face-painting and silent auction. Costumes encouraged! Hosted by Shoreline Cooperative Preschool, a non-profit organization. We will be accepting non-perishable food donations for Northwest Harvest.
*Master Pumpkin Sculptor at Molbak’s – Woodinville; 10/19; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Don’t miss the chance to see a master at work! Champion pumpkin carver Russ Leon will transform a giant 300-pound pumpkin into a masterpiece.
*Seattle Parrot Expo – Seattle; 10/19 – 10/20; 10:00am – 6:00pm; Parrot entertainment, exhibitors, games, face painting, balloon art and more. No pets. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 19-20. FREE, fee for some activities.
*Free Wing Luke Museum Entrance – Seattle; 10/19; 10:00am – 8:00pm; The Wing Luke Museum offers free admission on the third Saturday of each month, for family day.
*Saturday Family Concert: Charlie Hope – Seattle; 10/19; 11:00am; Melodic, interactive songs for kids. 11 a.m. $5, free ages 12 and younger with paying adult, $25 unaccompanied adult, ticket required.
*Salmon SEEson in Issaquah – Issaquah; 10/19 – 11/10 Saturdays & Sundays; 11:00am & 1:00pm; See salmon return to Issaquah Creek, where you can view spawning from the bridge or through viewing windows. Trained docents from Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery (FISH) will give tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, September 7 to November 10.
*Star Wars Reads Day – Sammamish; 10/19; 11:00am – 1:00pm; The first hour of the event will offer mingling and photo ops with members of two Star Wars costuming clubs, and LEGO activities with Bricks 4 Kidz. The second hour is a program with Noise Guy Charlie Williams doing a parody of the first three Star Wars films, including noises and special props and toys. Food bank donations welcomed.
*Little Red Riding Hood – Woodinville; 10/19 – 10/27 Saturdays & Sundays; 11:00am, 2:00pm & 4:00pm; Enjoy a delightful 45-minute performance of this childhood classic. This professional production is perfect for elementary-aged children and adults alike! See our website for details. Shows at 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 27. Admission is FREE; donations to benefit the Sarvey Wildlife Care Center are welcomed. ASL interpreters will sign the 4 p.m. performance on October 27.
*Fall Festival – Seattle; 10/19; 11:00am – 3:00pm; Join us for a day of fantastic fall activities. You can try your hand at the apple press, make your own scarecrow (bring old clothes) and of course jump in our bounce houses. $4 advance, $5 at the door.
*American Girl Fashion Show Casting Call – Lynnwood; 10/19; 11:00am – 3:00pm; American Girl will be having a fashion show March 22-23 benefitting Seattle Children’s Hospital. If your daughter is at least 6 years old by Feb. 1, 2014, wears between size 6X and size 10, and resembles an American Girl doll, she’s welcome to try out for the show during our casting call.
*Cedar River Salmon Journey – Renton area; 10/19 – 10/27 Saturdays & Sundays; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Join the Cedar River Salmon Journey and see spawning salmon at five sites along the Cedar River near Renton. Experienced volunteer naturalists will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at Renton Library, Cedar River Park, Riverview Park, Cavanaugh Pond and Landsburg Park and Dam. All sites except Cavanaugh Pond are ADA accessible. Parking is limited; please carpool.
*TurkFest – Seattle; 10/19 – 10/20; 11:00am – 6:00pm; Experience Turkish culture with ethnic dancers and musicians, language and food workshops, arts and crafts exhibits, and children’s activities. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 19-20.
*Green Hour - Bellevue; 10/19; 1:00pm – 2:00pm; Join us the third Saturday of every month for a Green Hour at Lewis Creek Park! Observe and explore the park during an hour of unstructured play and interaction with the natural world. Each month, creative, science-based ideas will have children and parents deepening their knowledge and love of nature together! Registration recommended. FREE.
*Guided Nature Walk – Seattle; 10/19; 1:00pm – 2:30pm; Enjoy an afternoon in the old-growth forest and along the shores of Lake Washington with an Audubon naturalist. Discover the fabulous nature right here in the midst of the city, including all sorts of birds, plants, and other wildlife. Best for age 4 and older. Reserve your spot online.
*Bellevue Art Museums Get Crafty Saturday – Bellevue; 10/19; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 10/19; 2:00pm; Explore Lake Hills Greenbelt with a park ranger. Learn the history of the park, tour community gardens, and learn about local wildlife. All ages. 2 p.m. Saturdays. $1 suggested donation per person.
*Mercer Slough Nature Walk – Bellevue; 10/19; 2:00pm-3:00pm; Meet a Mercer Slough park ranger at the visitor center for a free guided tour and learn about the fascinating flora, fauna and history of the Mercer Slough Nature Park. Please dress for weather. No registration is required. FREE.
*Star Wars Reads Day - Bothell; 10/19; 2:30pm – 4:30pm; The first hour of the event will offer mingling and photo ops with members of two Star Wars costuming clubs, and LEGO activities with Bricks 4 Kidz. The second hour is a program with Noise Guy Charlie Williams doing a parody of the first three Star Wars films, including noises and special props and toys. Food bank donations welcomed. Free tickets for the Charlie Williams show at 3:30pm will be distributed at the Information Desk, while supplies last, beginning Oct. 12.
*Haunted Theatre - Tacoma; 10/19 – 10/27 weekends; various times; Tacoma City Ballet is transformed into a child-friendly haunted theater and grand ballroom with eerie dances. Come in Halloween attire. All ages. 3 and 5 p.m. today, various dates and times through Oct. 27. $5 to $6.
*Cultural Dance Series – Bellevue; 10/19; 7:00pm – 9:00pm; The third Saturday of each month through October, families are invited to watch dance demonstrations from different cultures and even learn (and try) some dance steps themselves.
*Free Concert Celebrating Fall – Kenmore; 10/19; 7:30pm; Hear music featuring the harp, dulcimer, strings, flutes, hand bells and flutes performed by International Artists Carillon. FREE, donations accepted to the music program at Church of the Redeemer.
Sunday, October 20th:
*Mercer Slough Ranger Program: A “Batty” Afternoon – Bellevue; 10/20; 2:00pm – 3:00pm; In recognition of Halloween, we’ll be talking about bats! We’ll learn about what species are here, their habits and habitats, and how we can help conserve these amazing creatures. Free; registration is not required. 2 p.m. Oct. 13 and 20.
*Author Appearance: Christy Ziglar – Bellevue; 10/20; 2:00pm – 5:00pm; Join us while Christy Ziglar signs copies of her book, “Can’t Wait Willow.” Darigold will provide samples of their strawberry and chocolate milk, DiGiornos will provide tastes of their cheese pizza, chocolate chip cookies and more! With the collected wisdom from her Uncle Zig Ziglar coupled with her own experience in finance and money management, Christy Ziglar develped a books series called Shine Bright Kids. Her first book in the series, “Can’t Wait Willow,” is about making the best choices.
Monday, October 21st:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 10/21; 10:00am – 10:45am; Create a special art project each week to take home during this fun drop-in class. Activities vary from painting to collage and mosaics. Ages 3 and older. Most Mondays 10 to 10:45 a.m. $2 supply fee per class. Please check website for current schedules. No registration required.
*Pajama Story Time – Seattle; 10/21; 6:45pm – 7:15pm; It is pajama story time at the Queen Anne Branch! All ages are welcome to join us for stories, songs and crafts. You can wear your pajamas!
Tuesday, October 22nd:
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 10/22; 10:00am – 11:00am; Kid-friendly storytime, crafts and activities at a different University Village store or restaurant each Tuesday. Parents receive discounts and offers for that day. Check website for details.
*PJ Library Story and Song Time with Erik Lawson – Seattle; 10/22; 10:00am; Enjoy Jewish songs and stories with musician and storyteller Erik Lawson. Everyone is welcome to these free events! R.S.V.P. to community@sjcs.net.
*After-School Special Activities – Seattle; 10/22 – 12/10 Tuesdays; 4:00pm – 5:30pm; Kids ages 6 to 10 are invited to free, drop-in activities at Magnuson Community Center every Tuesday through Dec. 10.
Oct. 22: Movie Madness
Oct. 29: Louie Foxx Magic Show
Nov. 5: Big Kid Toys Gym Play
Nov. 12: Bingo Blast
Nov. 19: Craft Extravaganza
Nov. 26 Movie Madness
Dec. 3: Bingo Blast, Holiday Edition
Dec. 10: Holiday Craft Extravaganza
Wednesday, October 23rd:
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 10/23; 10:00am-11:00am; Introduce your toddler to nature with story time, songs, and fun activities inside, followed by exploration along the trails of Seward Park. Walks are easy and less than one mile in length. Pre-register, space is limited. Recommended for ages birth to 3. Cost: $2 per person.
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 10/23; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Join kids ages birth to 5 and their parents/caregivers every Wednesday and Friday for a drop-in playgroup! Have fun playing with other families, reading, and singing. First-time families will be asked to fill out a registration form. FREE
Thursday, October 24th :
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 10/24; 10:00am – 11:30am; Come play and learn with us! Snack is included and an outside play area is available. Newborn to age 5 with caregiver – come for all or just part of the time! FREE
*Half Priced Admission Imagine Childrens Museum – Everett; Thursday; 10/24; 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*High Point Haunted House – Seattle; 10/24; 5:00pm – 7:30pm; Wear your costume and wander through the haunted house. 5 to 7:30 Oct. 24-25. $2.
*Fall Festival – Seattle; 6:00pm – 7:45pm; Come enjoy games, face painting and a haunted house. Ages 5 to 12. Non-perishable donations welcomed.
*Late Play Date – Auburn; 10/24; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Celebrate fall with fun crafts and activities at the museum. Perfect for families with kids ages 3 to 12. Admission and activities are FREE, no registration required.
For more lists of local events in WA check out these websites::
*Sounds Fun Mom - Maegen always has a great list of events local to the South Sound area of WA
*Grays Harbor Deals - Annaliese lists some great events each weekend for Grays Harbor county (Long Beach, Hoquiam, Aberdeen, Moclips, Ocean Shores, Raymond, Elma & more!)
PORTLAND AREA:
Here’s our list of weekly events for the Portland area.
Friday, October 18th :
*Ladybug Nature Walk: Lesser Park – Portland; 10/11; 10:00am – 11:00am; Naturalist led stroll. Ages 2-5, with grown-up. Stroller-accessible. Cost: $4 per child
*Weekly Storytime + Craft at Craft Factory – Portland; 10/18; 10:30am – 11:30am; Friday morning storytimes are free. We offer a storytime craft special: $5 for any two ornamental crafts. If your child would like to do something other than the ornamental craft, they are welcome to choose a regularly-priced ($12) base. Storytime books are on loan from Annie Bloom’s Books, right next door.
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 10/18; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Mr. Hoo will be singing songs with and for kids. He’ll play his guitar and sing some original songs, some Alphabeticians songs, some classic kid songs and Hoo knows what else? $3 suggested donation pp.
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 10/18; 1:00pm-2:15pm; This program integrates nature exploration, art, literature, music, movement, and outdoor play. It is geared toward families with young children (preferably ages 2-6 but all are welcome.) For more specific information, call (503) 636-9886 ext. 225. FREE.
*$5 Friday Artshop at Art a la Carte – Portland; 10/18; 3:30pm – 5:00pm; All ages and all skill levels welcome. Every Friday we do a simple but fun project for the whole family. Cost: $5
*Multnomah County Friends of the Library Fall Used Book Sale – Portland; 10/18 – 10/21; Over 100,000 gently used books, DVDs, CDs, videos, audio tapes, sheet music, maps, and more for a fraction of retail. Children’s books and small paperbacks start at $.50 and hardcover books and large paperbacks start at $2. (Thanks, Frugal Living NW)
*Art In The Burbs at Tigard’s Rider Elementary School – Tigard; 10/18 – 10/20; 6:00pm – 9:00pm; Bring friends and family to browse and shop the gallery of artwork by over 75 local NW artists. The show features unique artwork, a student art gallery, local food, musical performances and a great opportunity to support the arts in our schools. For times and artist previews, visit the website. Cost: $3
*Family Friday Flicks at the Hillsboro Main Library – Hillsboro; 10/18; 6:30pm – 8:00pm; Friday Family Flicks features family friendly movies on the third Friday of most months at the Main Library! Popcorn provided, courtesy of Regal Cinema’s Movies on TV Highway. Recommended for ages 4+ and adult family members. Children must be supervised by adult family members. Seating is limited to 100 people.
*Family Park Night at East Portland Community Center – Portland; 10/18; 6:30pm – 8:30pm; Low cost night out with the family. Indoor Park toys, sports and trampoline. 1st and 3rd Fridays. Cost: $1.25 per child
*Family Friday Concerts at The Community Music Center - Portland; 10/18; 7:15pm – 10:15pm; Whistlin’ Rufus tonight. Our volunteer-run series of once-a-month low-cost concerts for children & families returns. All Family Friday concerts start at 7:15 pm and run about an hour (no intermission). Admission is free, with suggested donation of $5 per person or $15 for a family. Doors open at about 6:45 pm.
Saturday, October 19th :
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 10/19; 10:00am – 11:30am; Free guided nature hikes exploring the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week but will be appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes.
*West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta at Tualatin Commons – Tualatin; 10/19; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Watch huge pumpkin “boats” race, music, pie eating & costume contests, more.
*Ruckus in the Lobby at Artists Rep Theatre – Portland; 10/12; 10:30am – 11:15am; Traveling Lantern Theatre Company presents “Ruckus in the Lobby”. A series of plays for children, in the lobby at Artists Rep. All performances are interactive and geared for the K-6th grade age group and their families. The shows include a Q&A with the cast following the performance. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at: www.artistsrep.org. Cost: $5
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland ; 10/19; 10:30am to 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Story Time with Matthew Porter – Portland; 10/19; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Matthew Porter will read from his new book, Monkey World:The Thunderbolt Express. What begins as a pleasant journey for a group of monkey passengers soon goes wrong when the engineer sees that a bridge is out and snaps the brake handle while trying to stop the train.
*Museum Family Saturday at the Maritime Museum – Portland; 10/19; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Families are invited to discover Portland’s maritime history with a craft project to take home. Museum Family Saturdays, on the third Saturday of every month, are free to families with children under 18. These activities are generously supported through grants by the Oregon Community Foundation, the Meyer Memorial Trust, the Juan Young Trust and the Jackson Foundation.
*Oregon Pacific Railroad Train Rides – Portland; 10/19 Saturdays; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; The Oregon Pacific Railroad is continuing to offer passenger train rides on Saturdays between Oaks Amusement Park and East Portland (near OMSI) and back. Round trip rides last approximately an hour and take guests along the Willamette River, through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Cost: $5 round trip or $10 to ride in the cab of our locomotive, limited space available for locomotive cab rides. We’re the only full size passenger excursion train in the Portland area. See our website for scheduling info and more details.
*Doc McStuffins Toy Clinic at Lancaster Mall – Salem; 10/19; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; The Doc is In! Join Radio Disney for a special Doc McStuffins Toy Clinic. Bring your favorite stuffed animal or toy in for a check-up with our Radio Disney Junior honorary docs. The Radio Disney Road Crew will be rockin’ out to all your favorite Radio Disney Junior hits, dancing, playing games, makin’ crafts, and giving out prizes. (Doc McStuffins character will not be present at the event).
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 10/19; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*Movie at Steamers & Screamers – Portland; 10/12; 5:00pm; Enjoy a movie every Saturday night. FREE
Sunday, October 20th:
*Zombie Magnet Station at Green Bean Books - Portland; 10/20; 11:00am – 3:00pm; Stop by and make your own zombie magnet. We provide the supplies and you bring your creativity.
*Family Fun Time at Unplugged Games – Portland; 10/20; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Let’s play! Whether your family likes classic board games, card games, or is looking to learn something new, Unplugged Games has lots of great ideas to make family game time fun. Try one of the games from our library, or bring one from home to play with new friends. See a new game you want to learn? Our staff will teach you. Unplugged Games lives up to its name by offering non-electronic games of all types, with a focus on role-playing games, board games, and card games.
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 10/20; 12:30pm – 1:30pm; Take a tour of the art museum with a docent skilled at engaging visitors of all ages. Tour is free with admission and free for kids 17 and under. Cost: Members FREE, Non-members $15 adults, kids under 18 free.
*Matthew Porter Children’s Book Reading at Land Gallery – Portland; 10/20; 2:00pm – 3:00pm; Land Gallery hosts artist Matthew Porter for a reading and signing of his new children’s book, Monkey World: The Thunderbolt Express. This magical adventure involves a flying train and a cast of funky monkeys dressed in suits, suspenders, and bowler hats. Matthew is known for his clever work and bold, bright images. Using vibrant colors and distressed pinewood, he creates texture and movement in his artwork. Renowned for his board books, this is Porter’s first storybook for older children. Climb aboard the Thunderbolt Express and enjoy this wild ride.
*Trading Card Games For Tweens at Unplugged Games – Portland; 10/20; 2:00pm – 4:00pm; Is your child interested in Pokemon, Magic, or Yugioh? Whether you’re passing down the tradition or can’t tell a Pikachu from a Plains, this is a great time for kids to come play their favorite card games in a casual, non-competitive environment. We also have sample decks to play with for kids just getting into the hobby.Recommended for families with children aged 8-12. Unplugged Games lives up to its name by offering non-electronic games of all types, with a focus on role-playing games, board games, and card games.
*Red Yarn Album Release Show at Village Ballroom – Portland; 10/20; 3:30pm – 6:00pm; Red Yarn will perform songs from the album with a 7-piece band and guest puppeteers. Children are invited to dress up as their favorite Deep Woods critters. Food & drink service will be available from Oregon Public House. Professional storyteller Will Hornyak and other special guests will open up the event at 3:30pm, and Red Yarn and his band will take the stage from 4:30-5:30pm. This grant-funded album features Red Yarn’s adaptations of animal folksongs he has collected over the last five years. In his imagination, all the characters of these American folksongs occupy the same magical forest: the Deep Woods. With his music and puppet performances, Red Yarn has brought the Deep Woods to life for families.
Monday, October 21st :
*Music Class with Johnny Keener at The Treehouse – Portland; 10/21; 10:00am; He will craft music for kids that is exciting and fun, as well as artistically satisfying. He is committed to inviting kids into the musical process providing them with a musical experience they won’t forget! Best for ages 0-6. Cost: $5 per child
*Kids Club at the Streets of Tanasbourne - Portland; 10/21; 10:00am – 11:00am; Halloween Hoe Down! stories, crafts, songs and games hosted by Gymboree Play and Music. Free.
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Laurelhurst Cafe – Portland; 10/21; 10:00am – 11:00am; Join Olive and Dingo for stories, balloons and songs at Laurelhurst Cafe, a quaint restaurant serving organic local high quality meals. (Gluten free and kids menu options too.). $5 suggested donation.
*Tallulah’s Daddy at Rain City Coffee – Portland; 10/21; 10:00am – 11:00am; Come sing, dance and play with Tallulah’s Daddy as he plays guitar, bass and cajon. Tallulah’s Daddy plays fun, energetic acoustic music for your little ones, and you can grab some coffee, tea or a snack. We start with musical storytime, then sing songs, and we leave a little bit of extra time for the kids to get their hands on some percussion instruments! No cover charge, donations appreciated.
*Washington County Museum Free Admission – Portland; 10/21; 10:00am – 4:30pm; Admission is free to this museum every Monday.
*MarchFourth Marching Band at Portland Mall – Portland; 10/21; 12:00pm – 1:30pm; MarchFourth Marching Band will take over the transit mall with a dazzling performance filled with action, music, and spectacular stunts. Beginning at noon at Unitus Plaza, the infamous marching band will perform for 30 minutes and then will make their way up 6th avenue, with Portland citizens following closely behind, to Pioneer Courthouse Square.
*Halloween Interactive Movie at Beaverton Library - Beaverton; 10/21; 4:00pm – 5:00pm; Before you head out for Tricks-or-Treats or wait for the Great Pumpkin, drop by the library to enjoy a classic Halloween cartoon with an interactive twist. Ages 4-12 with family.
*Mondays On The Mall – Portland – Downtown Central Transit Mall; 10/21; Various Times; Free events all day including Wii play, caricatures, the original photo booth and entertainment.
Tuesday, October 22nd :
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Warehouse Cafe – Portland; 10/22; 10:00am – 11:00am; Toddlers and their families are all encouraged to join in the fun for one hour and *poof!* it’s a party after:twisted balloons for everyone to take home! $5 donation
*Preschool Play and Skate at Oaks Park – Portland; 10/22; 10:00am – 11:30am; This special roller skating session is just for your littlest skaters. Children 6 and under enjoy games, songs, blals, a 15 minute group lesson, snack time, and more. Conventional skate rental included. Shoes and strollers welcome on the skating floor. Adults free with paid children’s admission. Cost: $6.00
*Kids Concert Series at Oregon Children’s Theatre – Portland; 10/22; 10:15am – 11:15am; Entertainment + education! Mo Phillips performs interactive shows that respect the intelligence of young people and lay the foundation for musical development. Come to OCT and dance and play to Mo’s music, for kids and parents alike. $3 drop in, free for kids under 1
*Storytime at Green Bean Books – Portland; 10/22; 11:00am – 11:30am; Get ready to get immersed in the world of books! FREE
*Mommy Matinee at the Kennedy School – Portland; 10/22 & 10/23; 2:30pm – 4:30pm; Tuesdays & Wednesdays moms, dads, grandparents, nannies and their babies are welcome. Let the kids fuss – we don’t mind! Click here for today’s movie. Cost: $3 pp
*Penny’s Puppets at West Linn Library – West Linn; 10/22; 6:30pm; An exciting show full of music, laughs, and adorable puppets! Part of Terrific Tuesdays series.
Wednesday, October 23rd :
*Visit the Historic Belmont Firehouse – Portland; 10/23 ; 9:00am – 3:00pm; Drop in any Wednesday to see the exhibits and learn about safety for you and your family. No appointment is necessary.
*Music Class at the Treehouse with Mr. Ben – Portland; 10/23; 10:00am; Enjoy music with kindie favorite Mr. Ben. Cost: $5 per child
*Honeybee Hikes at Leach Botanical Gardens – Portland; 10/23; 10:00am – 11:00am; Weekly nature-related activities for young children and their adult caregivers. Discover the secrets of the Garden and its critters through stories and outdoor explorations. Dress for the weather and wear good walking shoes for unpaved, uneven walkways that could be muddy. Strollers limit where we can explore, so carriers are ideal for little ones. No pre-registration required. Best for ages 1-6. Cost: $2 per child
*Ladybug Theater at the SMILE Station – Portland; 10/23; 10:30am; Charming play, some with puppets, every Wed. Best for ages 2+ with good theatre manners. Cost: $4
*Sign Language Story Time at Green Bean Books - Portland; 10/23; 11:15am – 11:45am; Author and founder of SmallTalk Learning, Dawn Prochovnic returns to Green Bean Books for another interactive sign language story time for babies and toddlers. She will feature her frightfully fun Halloween counting book, One Trick for One Treat! Signed copies of her books will be sold at a special event price of $15 for all those that attend.
*Storytime at Steamers & Screamers – Vancouver; 10/23; 11:30am – 12:45pm; Enjoy a story in the play area every Wednesday with play space admission. Wear socks! Cost: $4.95 per child
*Symphony Storytime at Kenton Library – Portland; 10/23; 1:00pm – 2:00pm; The Oregon Symphony is on the road for interactive, musical storytimes. This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun. Each week features a visit from an Oregon Symphony musician who will play and provide an introduction to his or her instrument and orchestral music.
*Mommy Matinee at the St Johns Theater- Portland; 10/23; 1:00pm – 2:30pm; Parents, nannies, grandparents and caregivers, bring your babies to these films, from G to R ratings. Let the wee ones fuss, they don’t mind. Every Wednesday, first showing, unless an event has been booked. Check movie listings for showtimes or call 503-249-7474. Cost $3.00
*Family Day at the Washington County Museum - Portland; 10/23; 2:00pm – 4:00pm;
*Story Time with Olive Rootbeer & Dingo at Pieper Cafe – Portland; 10/23; 3:00pm – 4:00pm; Come join O & D for an hour of singing, jumping, bellowing and monkeying. All your favorite sounds and stories–kids and guardians are encouraged to sing and play along and then the show will finish with lots of balloon twisting fun. Every child can take home a balloon character of their choice. All ages welcome because everyone can be or learn to be a great audience member. Perfect after school fun. Cost: suggested $5 tip
Thursday, October 24th :
*Music and Puppetry with Red Yarn at the Treehouse – Portland; 10/24; 10:00am;Red Yarn a dynamic children’s performer, weaving live music, puppetry and interactive storytelling into engaging shows for family audiences. Whether performing solo or with the Red Yarn Puppet Band, the red-bearded bard teaches positive values while reinvigorating American folklore for younger generations. $5 per child
*St Johns Swapnplay Playspace Open Play - Portland; 10/24; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Free to all! This is a chance to come learn, play and grow. Free toddler/preschooler art class from 10-11. First come first served as we run out of materials after 15 students. Open Play is an open time for non-members to enjoy the space. This is also a great time to learn about membership should you be interested.
*Storytime at A Children’s Place Bookstore – Portland; 10/24; 10:30am – 11:00am; Enjoy this free weekly storytime at the lovely A Children’s Place Bookstore. A variety of books for different age ranges will be read. FREE.
*Family Tour Port of Vancouver – Vancouver; 10/24; 12:00pm – 2:00pm; Port family tours offer an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the global marketplace in action in a setting conducive to learning and interaction for both adults and children. The will showcase the largest transportation project in the port’s 100-year history, the West Vancouver Freight Access rail project, as well as the diverse range of marine cargoes handled on port docks. There will be lots of children’s activities and kids will get coloring books filled with line drawings of ships and other port-related activities. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the port at 360-693-3611 or by emailing the port at info@portvanusa.com. Government issued photo identification (for those 18 and older) is required to attend a tour. No cameras are allowed on marine terminals. Public tours begin at the port’s administrative building, located at 3103 N.W. Lower River Road, Vancouver.
*Storytime with Olive and Dingo at Another Read Through – Portland; 10/24; 3:00pm; Olive Rootbeer and Dingo will read stories, sing songs, make balloon animals, and generally entertain and whoop it up with any kids and grownups who stop by. Donations welcome.
*Storytime at Green Bean Books – Portland; 10/24; 3:30pm – 4:00pm; GBB is now offering a second weekly story time! Join us any Thursday afternoon, 3:30-4:00pm for stories and laughter! FREE
*Star Wars Family Halloween Party at Oregon City Library – Oregon City; 10/24; 7:00pm; Celebrate Halloween in Star Wars style. Screening of the 1977 film, games treats and more. Wear your Halloween costume or come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character.
*Laura Rebolloso in Concert at Interstate Firehouse – Portland; 10/24; 7:30pm – 8:30pm; Ethos and RACC’s Work for Arts program are proud to announce that Son Jarocho musician, Laura Rebolloso, will reprise her wildly popular 2011 performance at the Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center (IFCC) on Thursday, October 24th at 7pm. IFCC is located at 5340 N. Interstate Ave. Rebolloso plays Son Jarocho, a folk music unique to Veracruz, a state in the Gulf Coast region of Mexico, where three different cultures – Spanish, indigenous and African – came together more than 500 years ago. The most widely known Son Jarocho is “La Bamba, “which was popularized by Ritchie Valens in the late 1950s. Rebolloso is a founding member of the internationally reknowned band Son de Madera, which formed in Xalapa, the capital city of Veracruz, in 1992. The concert is free and open to all ages. Donations gratefully accepted at the door.
For more lists of local events in western OR check out::
* PDX Kids Calendar - this is a comprehensive events-based website for families in the Portland area.
NATIONAL EVENTS:
*Free Craft Activities at Lakeshore Learning Stores– Sat. ; 11am to 3pm; Kids can come to this free craft time each week for a new craft (plus print a $5 off $25 coupon).
*Pottery Barn Kids Book Club- Tuesday 1/22; 11-11:30am; Kids of all ages can attend storytime every Tuesday. Members receive an official Book Club Passport and a special gift after attending 5 storytimes.
*Barnes and Noble Free Storytime - Times and events vary by location. Check your location for specific story’s available this weekend.
Fun & Frugal Family Events 10/18 – 10/24 is a post from: Thrifty NW Mom
The post Fun & Frugal Family Events 10/18 – 10/24 appeared first on Thrifty NW Mom.