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.
Make sure to check out our list and links to Fairs & Festivals in the Pacific NW and the huge post on things to do in Seattle for a staycation!
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!
ComedySportz: Fast and Funny Improv Comedy Competition (Seattle; 6/28 – 6/29 Fri & Sat; tickets start at $6 plus service fee)
Sketchfest Presents a Monthlong Showcase of Scripted Comedy (Seattle; 6/28 – 6/29 Fri & Sat; tickets start at $5 plus service fee)
Tour the Iconic Pike Place Market (Seattle; 6/28 – 6/30; tickets start at $9.86 plus service fee)
Broadway Smash Hit The Addams Family Creeps Into Portland (Portland; 6/28 & 6/30; tickets start at $28.75 plus service fee)
Seattle Storm: WNBA Action at KeyArena (Seattle; 6/28; tickets start at $7 plus service fee)
The Beatles’ Early Hits in 1964 The Tribute at ShoWare Center (Seattle; 6/28; tickets start at $20 plus service fee)
Irma Thomas: Grammy-Winning “Soul Queen of New Orleans” (Seattle; 6/29 & 6/30; tickets start at $15.00 plus service fee)
Folk Music Inspires Celebrate America Chorus Concert (Seattle; 6/30; tickets start at $6 plus service fee)
STG Presents Robert Randolph & The Family Band at the Neptune (Seattle; 7/5; tickets start at $13.25 plus service fee)
John Mayall: British Blues-Rock Legend at Alberta Rose Theatre, Plus Special Guest Lipbone Redding (Portland; 7/9; tickets start at $12.50 plus service fee)
Guitar Legend Albert Lee, Plus Portland’s Terry Robb (Portland; 7/16; tickets start at $12.50 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, June 28th :
*Paint Me a Story - Bellevue; 6/28; 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
*Kruckeberg Garden Tots – Shoreline; 6/28; 10:00am – 1:00pm; Drop in to the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden with your young children every Friday through September for a fun nature exploration in this unique, naturalistic garden. Each week we offer a simple plant activity, a themed garden exploration, and a craft project. Cost: $7 family, free for members.
*Nature Alphabet – Tacoma; 6/28; 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.
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 6/28; 10:30am – 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.
*FreeTête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 6/28; 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.
*KIDSTAGE Entertainment – Everett; 6/28 – 8/9 Fridays; 12:00pm; See young actors from Village Theatre perform excerpts from plays. Fridays at noon through Aug. 9 (no show July 5).
*Saige’s Art Event with Crayola® Model Magic – Lynnwood; 6/28, 12:00pm – 5:00pm & 7/4 2:00pm – 4:00pm; The newest American Girl, Saige, loves art and riding in her father’s hot air balloon. Girls ages 8 and older can come create a mini hot air balloon scupture out of Crayola Model Magic in her honor.
*Saige’s Horse Collage Craft – Lynnwood; 6/28, 12:00pm – 5:00pm & 6/30, 1:00pm – 3:00pm; The newest American Girl, Saige, loves art and horses. Girls ages 8 and older can come create a paper horse collage in her honor.
*Fathoms of Fun Festival – Port Orchard; 6/28 – 7/4; parade on Saturday; booths; vendors; children’s activities & more! (Thanks, Sounds Fun Mom!)
*Smokey Point Carnival – Arlington; 6/28 – 6/30; First-annual event features rides, games, food and more. 4 to 11 p.m. June 28, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 29, noon to 10 p.m. June 30. Cost: FREE entrance, wristbands available for rides ($15 to $19).
*Movies at Mercer Slough: “My Life as a Turkey” – Bellevue; 6/28; 5:00pm – 6:00pm; Follow one man’s remarkable experience of raising a group of wild turkey hatchlings to adulthood. Popcorn provided! Best for ages 5 and older. FREE
*Twirl Café Movie Night Social – Seattle; 6/28; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; Grab your kiddos and join us for pizza and a movie with friends or family. With a rotating pizza special each Friday and $4 cheese pizzas, celebrating the weekend is easy to do! Free to attend; food, beer and wine available for purchase. R.S.V.P. online and get entered into our monthly drawing.
*Family Movie Night: The Lorax – Frederickson; 6/28; 6:30pm; movie plus free games, booths, and other fun (Thanks, Sounds Fun Mom!)
*Magnuson Park Family Summer Concert Series – Seattle; 6/28 – 7/26 Fridays; 7:00pm; Outdoor concerts at Magnuson Park. FREE, donations accepted.
June 28: Smalltime String Band & Fiddli-I-Aye- Dueling Family Bluegrass Bands; Family Garden Day/Magnuson Children’s Garden plus pre-4th of July ice cream social and activities starting at 6:30 p.m.
July 5: Emerald City Jazz Ensemble
July 12: Recess Monkey and Off the Hook (Rolling Stones tribute band) – Family Garden Day/Magnuson Children’s Garden
July 19: Northwest Gospel Jazz Band
July 26: Caspar Babypants; Family Garden Day/Magnuson Children’s Garden – PCC Kid Picks van
Saturday, June 29th:
*Greenwood Car Show – Seattle; 6/29; 8:00am – 4:00pm; See a procession of classic and collector cars a mile and a half long, plus enjoy live music, a kids’ zone, food vendors and more. FREE; non-perishable donations accepted.
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 6/29 & 7/3; 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.
*Seahurst Saturdays – Burien; 6/29 – 7/21 Saturdays; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Enjoy a variety of nature activities and explorations each Saturday. Cost: $4, $2 ages 5 to 17, free younger than age 5 (although the program is generally recommended for grade-school-age kids and older). Ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Scholarships available. Pre-register.
June 22: Food Chains at Seahurst Beach
June 29: Nature Scavenger Hunt
July 6: Insect Safari
July 13: Scatology: Odd Digestion in the Animal Kingdom
July 20: Beach Exploration (especially for ages 2 to 6)
July 21: Seawall Send-off (registration not required)
*Douglas World Cruiser Celebration & Launch – Seattle; 6/29; 10:00am – 2:00pm; This event commemorates the 1924 circumnavigation of the world by four Douglas “World Cruiser” Aircraft that began their journey here in Seattle. Now, almost 90 years later, two pilots from Seattle hope to retrace the flight in a World Cruiser replica dubbed Seattle II, named after one of the original four aircraft. The the Museum of Flight will host a public celebration and ceremony to rollout the newly completed airplane – which will include several trappings reminiscent of 1924. Outdoor events are free, visiting inside the museum requires admission.
*International Festival – SeaTac; 6/29 – 6/30; opens at 10:00am; Cultural entertainment, vendors, food, children’s area (opens at noon, $5) and more. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. June 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 30. FREE admission
*Shoreline Arts Festival – Shoreline; 6/29 – 6/30; opens at 10:00am; Adult and junior juried art, children’s hands-on art, dance, music, Philippine Festival and more. Missoula Children’s Theatre presents The Tortoise vs. the Hare for all ages (1 and 5 p.m. Sat., $8). 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 30. FREE
*Kite Festival – University Place; 6/29; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Kite demonstrations, kite flying, music and more. The first 250 kids will have the chance to make their own kites. FREE
*Create a Group Storybook – Seattle; 6/29; 11:00am; Join us for a fun and interactive group storytelling activity. Gather with visitors of all ages and build a story about creating positive change. FREE
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 6/29 – 9/29 Saturdays & Sundays; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Crafts of the Past will feature a different artist each weekend who will display and demonstrate a specific 19th century art or craft such as Native American beadwork, textile arts, woodworking and more. Visitors are invited to participate in a hands-on activity to discover just what it takes to produce the various art forms. Saturdays and Sundays, May 4 through Sept. 29. Included with admission. $6.50, $5 seniors, active military and students, $4 ages 4 to 17, free ages 3 and younger, $22 family.
*Iranian Festival – Seattle; 6/29; 11:00am – 7:00pm; Explore the culture of Iran through food, tea, music, films, kids’ activities and more.
*Vintage Plane Fly Day – Everett; 6/29; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Watch historic aircraft from the Flying Heritage Collection take to the sky for a maintenance flight. Bring lawn chairs. Noon to 1 p.m., subject to weather and operational considerations.
*NFL Play 60 Fitness Challenge – Seattle; 6/29; 12:00pm – 2:00pm; NFL Play 60 is the National Football League’s (NFL) campaign to encourage kids to be active for 60 minutes a day to help reverse the national trend toward childhood obesity. At this Play 60 Challenge, participants of all ages can try various races, agility courses and other physical challenges, plus meet Blitz and take home prizes (while supplies last). Parents must sign waiver for kids younger than age 18. Wear athletic clothing and shoes, and bring a water bottle. FREE
*Scenic Train Rides – Snoqualmie; 6/21 & 6/22; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Ride through the Cascade Foothills to the top of Snoqualmie Falls. Round-trip excursions are 75-minutes long. Train runs Saturdays & Sundays, April – October. Board in Snoqualmie, 38625 S.E. King Street, 12:01 p.m., 1:31 p.m. or 3:01 p.m., or in North Bend, 205 McClellan Street, 12:26 p.m. or 1:56 p.m. Cost: $15, $12 seniors, $10 kids, free younger than age 2.
*Camlann Village Weekend – Carnation; 6/29 – 7/21 Saturdays & Sundays; 12:00pm – 5:00pm; Experience life in a medieval village through reenactments and hands-on activities. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, May 11 through July 21 and Aug. 31 through Sept. 22. $5 suggested donation, free ages 4 and younger.
*Bellevue Art Museums Get Crafty Saturday – Bellevue; 6/29 1:00pm to 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 6/29; 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; ; 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.
*The Totally True & Almost Accurate Adventures of Pinocchio – Seattle; 6/29; 2:00pm – 3:00pm; When a historic Italian theater troupe attempts to tell the most perfect tale of Pinocchio, they’re dismayed to discover their lead actor has disappeared! The troupe scrambles to find another actor for the all-important title role. But when the show begins, hilarity ensues as nothing goes according to plan and everything goes awry! FREE
*The Magic Pudding – Seattle; 6/29; 5:00pm; Annual family play performed by Theater Schmeater, based on the book by Norman Lindsey. Bring a blanket and a picnic. 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through July 28. FREE
Sunday, June 30th:
*Bicycle Sundays – Seattle; 6/30; 10:00am – 6:00pm; The four-mile stretch of Lake Washington Boulevard between Mount Baker Beach and Seward Park is closed to motorized traffic 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. several Sundays through September.
*Skandia Midsommarfest – Kenmore; 6/30; 11:00am – 6:00pm; Enjoy a Nordic and Baltic summer celebration featuring traditional music, dancing, food, crafts and other activities. The raising of the garlanded Midsommar pole happens at 2:30 p.m. FREE
*Adventure Playground – Mercer Island; 6/30 & 7/2; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Adventure Playground is a one of a kind play area that allows kids to create their own play adventure. Nestled in the wooded forest of Deane’s Children’s Park, children are provided toolboxes, various building supplies, safety items and the freedom to create build-it-yourself play zones with the guidance of staff. Open 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, June 25 through Aug. 29 (closed July 4 and 14). Donations accepted.
*Cast Off! Free Public Sailing – Seattle; 6/9; 2:00pm; Our Cast Off! program allows visitors the chance to sail in classic boats. Before and after your sail take a walk on the docks and discover the boats. Watch the volunteer crews rigging the boats. They’ll be happy to answer any question you might have, and you may even have a chance to help with the rigging! We sail rain or shine, but wind conditions may keep us at the dock. Reservations are taken day-of-sail only at the CWB front desk. This is a popular activity so please arrive early to reserve a spot, we open at 10 a.m. Rides are always at 2 p.m., and sometimes also at 3 p.m. FREE
*Rock and Roll Portable Science Exhibit – Bothell; 6/30; 2:00pm – 4:30pm; Delve into the deepest layers of the Earth to learn about sparkling crystals, magnetic rocks and earthquakes with Pacific Science Center’s Science on Wheels. Best for ages 7 and older. Registration not required. Space is limited. Entry times to the exhibit will occur every 30 minutes from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Free tickets will be distributed at the Information Desk, while supplies last, beginning June 21.
Monday, July 1st:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 7/1; 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.
*Recess Monkey Performance – Bellevue; 7/1; 2:00pm; Drew and Jack of Recess Monkey will play some of their songs. FREE
*Bat Walk – Seattle; 7/1; 8:15pm; Learn about bats, then help search for them using a bat detector. 8:15 p.m. June 21, July 1 and July 17. Rain or shine. FREE
Tuesday, July 2nd:
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 7/2; 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.
*Bike Parade – Seattle; 7/2; 6:00pm – 7:00pm; Bring your wagon, tricycle or bike to decorate at 6 p.m., then ride it (with a helmet) in the parade beginning at 6:30 p.m. Afterward, enjoy a bouncy house and a treat. Cost: $5.
*Children’s Entertainment Series – Lacey; 7/2 – 8/6 Tuesdays; 6:30pm; Reptile Man July 2, Ian Dobson July 9, Buck & Elizabeth July 16, Brownsmead Flats July 23, Recess Monkey July 30, Henrik Bothe Aug. 6. FREE
*Summer Movies in the Park - Bellevue; 7/2 – 8/30 Tuesdays; 8:00pm; Bring picnics, blankets and low-back chairs. Dusk. FREE. Each night themed to benefit a different charity, see donation needs online. Hotel Transylvania (PG) July 2, Thunderstruck (PG) July 9, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (PG) July 16, ParaNorman (PG) July 23, Life of Pi (PG) July 30, Parental Guidance (PG) Aug. 6, Chasing Mavericks (PG) Aug. 13, Won’t Back Down (PG) Aug. 20. FREE
Wednesday, July 3rd:
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 7/3; 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
*Hooked on History – Auburn; 7/3; 10:30am -11:30am; Every week there is a new theme with great activities and crafts. Hooked on History is perfect for kids age 3 to 12. FREE for everyone, no registration required.
*Conservatory Story Hour – Tacoma; 7/3; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Join Bonnie Beaudoin among the conservatory’s beautiful flowers for weekly storytelling along with a short hands-on science and art project. Each Wed., June 19 through July 17. Cost: $3, free ages 11 and younger.
*Poulsbo’s Third of July – Poulsbo; 7/3; 12:00pm – 11:00pm; Concessions, food, entertainment and fireworks (10:15 p.m.). Shuttles available 5 p.m. to midnight ($2 round trip, free ages 5 and younger). FREE
*Students Get Free Admission To The Bellevue Art Museum – Bellevue; 7/3; 1:00pm to 5:00pm; Students of all ages can explore the Bellevue Arts Museum after school FREE with printable coupon.
Thursday, July 4th :
*Admiral Neighborhood Kids Parade – Seattle; 10:00am; Kids parade starts at 44th Avenue S.W. and Sunset Avenue S.W. and continues to Hamilton View Point. FREE
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 7/4; 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
* Wooden Boat Festival – Seattle; 6/4 – 6/7; 10:00am -6:00pm; See gorgeous wooden vessels, go on a free boat ride, join a scavenger hunt, or see craft and skill demonstrations by regional boat builders. Food vendors, live music, kids’ activities, and exhibits add to the excitement throughout the weekend. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 4-7. FREE
*Naturalization Ceremony – Seattle; 7/4; 11:00am; Witness more than 500 citizenship applicants from around the world being sworn in as new U.S. citizens. 11 a.m. concert, noon to 1 p.m. ceremony.
*Kinderfest – Leavenworth; 7/4; 11:00pm – 4:00pm; This celebration of children and their families in the Bavarian village of Leavenworth includes a kiddie bike parade (11 a.m.), games, sweet treats, a giant Slip ‘n Slide, face painting, balloons, L-Bow the Clown and more. FREE
*Capitol Hill Independence Day Community Picnic – Seattle; 7/4; 12:00pm – 5:00pm; We will have live music from popular Seattle bands including The Not-Its! and Choro Loco (Brazilian jazz), plus a traditional pie-eating contest, pet-human look-alike contest and root beer tasting garden. Please check out our website for a list of updated events! FREE
*Free Swimming – Tacoma; 7/4; 12:00pm – 5:00pm; Enjoy free swimming today at Stewart Heights and Kandle Pool. Pool capacity is limited.
*Summer Life – Seattle; 7/4 – 8/29 Thursdays; 5:30pm – 8:30pm; Come join other Hillman City neighbors for a community gathering every Thursday evening through Aug. 29. Field games at 5:30 p.m., potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., and storytelling at 7 p.m. FREE
(Stay Tuned if you are looking for places to view 4th of July Fireworks. We will have a post on 4th of July Festivals coming up soon)!
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, June 28th :
*Community Moms’ Playgroup at Brentwood/Darlington Community Center – Portland; 6/28; 10:00am – 11:30am; Every 4th Friday of the month, 10-11:30, at Brentwood/Darlington Community Center, 7211 SE 62nd Ave., Port., 97206. Fun and snacks provided! Questions? Call Shawn at 503-988-6127 #243.
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 6/28; 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; 6/28; 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.
*Drop-In Family Fun at Blue Lake – Fairview; 6/28 – 9/1 Fri, Sat & Sun; 1:00pm – 5:00pm; Gather ideas to make your yard pesticide-free, safe and fun for kids, songbirds, lakes and streams. All ages can explore an active worm bin, dig for “fossils,” discover, rub and sniff plants, find the softest leaves, and see what wildlife have to say about natural gardening. Come for the garden and stay to enjoy the park’s many recreational activities. Free with $5 per vehicle ($7 per bus) fee, free for bicycles and pedestrians. FREE
$5 Friday Artshop at Art a la Carte – Portland; 6/28; 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
Saturday, June 29th :
*Kids Day at Hollywood Farmers Market - Portland; 6/29; 8:00am – 1:00pm; Farmers markets are fun way to get to know about what you eat. And at Kid’s Day, the Hollywood Farmers Market dares you to play with your food! Come with the whole family to enjoy free face painting, kid’s activities, music by Tallulah’s Daddy and Steve Cooper & Friends. Kid’s Day is also the kick off party for a new program, Sprouting Stories. Sprouting Stories asks market sprouts (customers of all ages) to tell us about their experiences in the market. Each participant will get an activity book that helps you journal about the best parts of the market and healthy eating. Complete one activity each week at the market and when the book is full, redeem it for a $5 token to the market. FREE
*2013 Portland Farmers Market Kids Cook Classes – Portland; 6/29; 8:30am – 10:00am; The Portland Farmers Market is once again partnering with the Art Institute Of Portland to offer Kids Cook at the Market classes, a deliciously fun cooking program for young chefs-in-training. At these classes, kids learn about the seasonality of food, meet local farmers and gain first-hand experience preparing ingredients purchased fresh at the market. Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as class size is limited. Cost is $5.00 per child for kids ages seven to eleven. For more information and to register for this class contact Anna Curtin at anna@portlandfarmersmarket.org or call 503-241-0032.
*Recycled Arts Festival – Vancouver; 6/29 – 6/30; 9:00am – 5:00pm; Visit the hippest, most eco-conscious festival of the year and see for yourself how people are giving new life to items that were landfill-bound. With over 120 artists, great onstage entertainment, stilt walkers, jugglers and clowns, there is sure to be something for everyone! Mainstage includes juggling, marimba and more. FREE
*Microsoft TechTots Classes At Downtown Store – Portland; 6/29 – 6/30; 9:30am – 10:30am; Bring the whole family and join us at the Microsoft Store in Portland for TechTots Classes for children ages 2-6 years old. Tech Tots consists of one-hour classes on Saturday and Sunday. They are creative, imaginative and technology-based classes designed to engage both parent and child. June 23 – August 31. Our Dance workshop is packed with movement and dancing games where children will dance, sing, and move to tunes. Parent or caregiver must remain present. Pets class: go on a virtual pet adventure, play animal games and learn what makes a good pet. Parent or caregiver must remain present. Space is limited and registration is required. FREE
*Forest Park Conservancy: Kids’ Discovery Hike – Portland; 6/29; 9:30am – 12:00pm; Explore Forest Park on a guided hike led by Outdoor School instructors and designed for youngsters and their families and friends. Learn about native plants, wildlife, and the inspiring history of Portland’s Forest Park. Become a tree as it grows from seed to snag, count banana slugs along the trail and learn about the differences between native and invasive plants, without leaving the city. Scavenger hunts, tap into our collective creativity, and use all five senses to investigate the amazing ecological diversity of Forest Park. The hikes are designed for kids ages 4-10 with parent. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now. NW 53rd and Wildwood trailhead (Search “NW 53rd and Wildwood trailhead @45.540533,-122.737327″ for directions)
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 6/29; 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.
*Music Class at the Treehouse with Mr. Ben – Portland; 6/29; 10:00am; Enjoy music with kindie favorite Mr. Ben – now on Saturday! Cost: $5
*World Beat Festival – Salem; 6/29 – 6/30; 10:00am; Taste the ethnic foods; listen to music and discussion from around the world; see performances from Africa, Asia and Europe; and have your children explore the kids’ activity tents and collect passport stamps from every continent. Discover that our neighbors and friends come from all over the world and live right here in our community. The World Beat Festival is Salem’s most vital expression of who we are, and contributes significantly to our community success. Cost: $5
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland ; 6/29; 10:30am – 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Peter Rabbit Storytime at A Children’s Place – Portland; 6/29; 11:00am; Early childhood specialist, Sally Skelding, will present a very special Saturday storytime. Come enjoy Peter Rabbit with your little ones. FREE
*Johnny & Jason at Gresham Arts Plaza – Gresham; 6/29; 11:00am – 12:00pm; The best of the Northwest’s “kindie” music scene performs at Gresham’s Arts Plaza this summer for Musicalu, a free, family-friendly music series.
*Lakeshore Learning Crafts – Lake Oswego; 6/29; 11:00am – 3:00pm; 4th of July Noisemaker. FREE
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 6/29; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
Sunday, June 30th:
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 6/30; 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: $15 (adults), Free (kids under 18).
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 6/30; 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.
*Alpenrose’s Dairyville – Portland; 6/30; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Alpenrose Dairy, Oregon’s oldest family-owned dairy, is ready once again to welcome families to Dairyville, a Western-themed “town” located right on the 52-acre dairy farm. A Portland tradition for over 50 years, kids and adults flock to the streets of Dairyville during the summer months to explore this fun pioneer exhibit. Visitors can peak into Grandma’s Bakery, the Great Western Bank, the Dairyville School, and the post office. Kids can watch model trains chug through tiny Oregon landscapes and learn from some of the area’s train club experts. And no Dairyville visit would be complete without stopping off at the Ice Cream Parlor for a delicious Alpenrose ice cream cone. Dairyville is open every Sunday afternoon beginning June 2nd through August 25th.
Monday, July 1st :
*Music Class with Johnny Keener at The Treehouse – Portland; 7/1; 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
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Laurelhurst Cafe – Portland; 7/1; 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; 7/1; 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; 7/1; 10:00am to 4:30pm; Admission is free to this museum every Monday.
*Mondays On The Mall – Portland – Downtown Central Transit Mall; 7/1; Various Times; Free events all day including Wii play, caricatures, the original photo booth and entertainment.
Tuesday, July 2nd :
*$1 Movies at Area Regal Movie Theaters; 7/2 & 7/3; 10:00am; $1 movies! Such a deal! 12 Portland metro area Regal movie theaters are showing G or PG-rated movies at 10 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for nine weeks. See the web page for the theater nearest you.
*Preschool Play and Skate at Oaks Park – Portland; 7/2; 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
*Tuesday Art Time at the Treehouse Children’s Boutique – Portland; 7/2; 10:15am – 11:15am; Every Tuesday of the 2012-2013 school year, the Treehouse Children’s Boutique opens its doors and expands into the auditorium of the Sound Roots School of Music for art, craft, science, and play! Suitable for ages 1 to 6 with adult. *Please register in advance! Simply leave a comment on the Treehouse Children’s Boutique facebook wall, drop by the store, or email the teacher, Sarah, at sarahfagan@yahoo.com to secure a spot. Walk-ins welcome as space allows. Cost $6 per child.
*Reptile Man at Vancouver’s Three Creeks Library – Vancouver; 7/2; 11:00am; A traveling collection of scaled predators unrivaled in quality and reputation presented with unique insights, observations and humor.
*Storytime at Green Bean Books – Portland; 7/2; 11:00am – 11:30am; Get ready to get immersed in the world of books! FREE
*Mo Phillips at Shute Park Amphitheater – Hillsboro; 7/2; 1:3opm – 2:30pm; Join the band! This super interactive rock ‘n’ roll show is all about creating music and having a good time. Write and record a song with Mo Phillips using your hands, body, and voice to sing and dance in the silliest of ways.
*Mommy Matinee at the Kennedy School – Portland; 7/2 & 7/3; 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
*Miz Pearl’s Variety Show at West Linn Library – West Linn; 7/2; 4:00pm; A fun-filled clown show featuring juggling, comedy, puppetry, magic, and dance. Ages 3-12.
*Party in Village Green Park – Clackamas; 7/2; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Everybody’s invited for music, games and fun in Village Green Park. Chill out to the sounds of Reggae band Rhythm Culture, while you enjoy crafts and games with the Library and the NCPRD Rec Mobile.
Wednesday, July 3rd:
*Microsoft TechTots Classes At Downtown Store – Portland; 7/3; 8:30am – 9:30am; Bring the whole family and join us at the Microsoft Store in Portland for TechTots Classes for children ages 2-6 years old. Tech Tots consists of one-hour classes on Saturday and Sunday. They are creative, imaginative and technology-based classes designed to engage both parent and child. June 23 – August 31. Our Dance workshop is packed with movement and dancing games where children will dance, sing, and move to tunes. Parent or caregiver must remain present. Pets class: go on a virtual pet adventure, play animal games and learn what makes a good pet. Parent or caregiver must remain present. Space is limited and registration is required. FREE
*Visit the Historic Belmont Firehouse – Portland; 7/3; 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.
*Honeybee Hikes at Leach Botanical Gardens – Portland; 7/3; 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
*Music Class at the Treehouse with Mr. Ben – Portland; 7/3; 10:00am; Enjoy music with kindie favorite Mr. Ben. Cost: $5 per child
*Brad Clark at Wilsonville Library – Wilsonville; 7/3; 11:00am & 12:30pm; Brad’s unique mix of storytelling and music will get you diggin’ deep for summer reading fun.
*Mommy Matinee at the St Johns Theater- Portland; 7/3; 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; 7/3; 2:00pm – 4:00pm
*Alphabeticians at LO Library – Lake Oswego; 7/3; 3:00pm; Rock on.
Thursday, July 4th :
*Kid’s Karaoke and 4th of July Crafts at Imagine Play – McMinnville; 7/4; 9:00am – 5:00pm; Karaoke for kids from 1 to 4, with a variety of Disney tunes and other kid-friendly songs. Patriotic themed crafts, including exploding art, weather permitting. Included with regular admission. Cost: $6 age 3 and up, $4 age 2 and unde
*Estacada 4th of July Festival – Estacada; 7/4; 12:00pm – 11:00pm; Parade at noon July 4 along Main and Broadway. Timber Festival 2-8 pm July 4 with pole climbing, truck rodeo and more. Lawnmower racing July 4, 5. Music 2-10 pm July 4, 4-10 pm July 5, 1-10 pm July 6. Fireworks 10 pm July 4. Most events free, parking $10. See web page for specific schedules.
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 6/28 – 7/4 is a post from: Thrifty NW Mom