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!
Carnival of the Animals: Summer Festival Family Concert (Seattle; 7/13; tickets start at $5 plus service fee)
Greater Tuna, the Off-Broadway Comedy Sensation (Portland; 7/13-14, 7/18, 7/20-21; tickets start at $16 plus service fee)
Guitar Legend Albert Lee, Plus Portland’s Terry Robb (Portland; 7/16; tickets start at $12.50 plus service fee)
Emily Asher’s Garden Party: Combo Plays Hoagy Carmichael (Seattle; 7/16; tickets start at $9 plus service fee)
Blues Singer-Songwriter Carolyn Wonderland Hits the Alberta Rose (Portland; 7/17; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
Chess: A Musical by Tim Rice and ABBA Songwriters (Seattle; 7/17 – 7/21 & 7/24 – 7/27; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
The Brian Nova All-Star Big Band: A Tribute to Frank, Ray and Nat (Seattle; 7/28; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
Shye Ben Tzur & the Radjasthan Gypsies: Israeli-Indian Music (Seattle; 7/30; tickets start at $9 plus service fee)
Les Nubians: French-African R&B Duo Premieres New Music (Seattle; 7/31; tickets start at $16 plus service fee)
PUGET SOUND AREA::
Friday, July 12th :
*West Seattle Summer Fest – Seattle; 6/12 – 6/13; Music, craft and local vendors, food, kids’ area (fee and free events) and more. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. july 12-13. (vendor sales until 6 p.m. and food vendors until 8 p.m.), 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 14. FREE. Limited parking.
*Sammamish Valley Lavender Celebration – Redmond; 6/12 – 6/14; Be among the first to try out our Lavender Labyrinth and the Sunflower & Corn Maze first opening! Watch lavender distillation and cooking demonstrations. You’ll also find lavender plants, crafts, lavender lemonade and botanicals for sale, plus the human sundial, mazes, animals, bouncy rodeo, singing chicken show and more in our farmyard. July 12 is Farm Tots Friday and Bubble Friday. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 12-14.
*Kent Cornucopia Days – Kent; 7/12 – 7/14; Street fair, carnival (fee), entertainment, art show, safety fair, 5K fun run (July 13), dragon boat races (July 13), parade (2 p.m. July 14), sports events and more. 3 to 8 p.m. July 11, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 12-13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 14. FREE
*Arlington Street Fair – Arlington; 7/12 – 7/14; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Vendors, arts and crafts, entertainment and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 12-14.
*King County Fair – Enumclaw; 7/12 – 7/14; King County Fair. Oldest fair west of the Mississippi features live music, midway and rides, animals, food and more. Noon to 9 p.m. July 11 and 14, noon to 10 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 13. Cost: $5, free ages 4 and younger.
*Family Waterfall Tour – North Bend; 7/12; 10:15am & 1:15pm; This one-hour tour by bus and foot is perfect for families. Visit Cedar Falls, behind the closed gates, to experience its beauty and find out how important it is to the tap water of the Greater Seattle area. Two tours a day at 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Cost: $5. Children traveling on your lap are free.
*Nature Alphabet – Tacoma; 7/12; 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. Cost: $6.
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 7/12: 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.
*The Big Dig Concert with Eric Ode – Seattle; 7/12; 11:00am; Join award-winning author and songwriter Eric Ode and his pal, Weasel Pete, for an interactive music and poetry program featuring songs about underground critters, buried treasure and all things muddy. FREE
*Free Tête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 7/12; 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; 7/12 – 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). FREE
*Pay-What-You-Can at Seattle Symphony’s “Soundbridge”- Seattle, Beneroya Hall; 7/12; 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.
*Sultan Summer Shindig – Sultan; 7/12 – 7/14; Features logging contest (1 p.m. July 13-14), live music, street fair, carnival, car show, and kids’ parade (10 a.m. July 13) followed by the grand parade. 3 to 11 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 14.
*Twirl Café Movie Night Social – Seattle; 7/12; 5:00pm – 8:oopm; 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.
*Seattle Art Museum Free To Teens – Seattle; 7/12; 5:00pm – 9:00pm; The Seattle Art Museum is free to teens 13 to 19 with school ID on the second Friday of each month.
*Redmond Derby Days – Redmond; 7/12 – 7/13; Carnival 5 to 10 p.m. July 12. July 13 includes 5K Derby Dash (9 a.m.), parades (10 a.m.) at Old Redmond Post Office (kids on wheels must wear helmets), carnival (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.), bicycle Criterium races, entertainment, Kids Zone, food and fireworks (10 p.m.). See online for full schedule. Shuttles available. FREE, fee for some activities.
*Belly Flop & Cannonball Contest – Edmonds; 7/12; 6:00pm; How big is your splash? This fun annual event benefits the Edmonds Youth Scholarship Fund. $5 entry fee. For more information call Edmonds Parks & Recreation at 425-771-0230.
*Pirate Plunder – Seattle; 7/12; 6:30pm – 7:30pm; Pirate-themed stories, crafts and a treasure hunt. Cost: $5.
*Backyard Bard: Twelfth Night – Seattle; 7/12; 7:00pm; An outdoor, all-ages, four-actor, 45-minute production. FREE, donations accepted.
*Shakespeare in the Park: King Lear – Seattle; 7/12; 7:00pm; GreenStage’s outdoor, all-ages production with shows throughout the Seattle area in July and August. FREE, donations accepted.
*The Tempest – various Puget Sound locations; 7/12 – 8/11; 7:00pm – 9:00pm; See Wooden O perform Shakespeare in an all-ages, outdoor format. Bring blankets or low chairs. FREE, donations accepted. Various days and locations July 11 through August 11.
*Magnuson Park Family Summer Concert Series – Seattle; 7/12 – 7/26 Fridays; 7:00pm; Outdoor concerts at Magnuson Park. FREE, donations accepted.
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
*Outdoor Summer Movie Series – Redmond; 7/12 – 8/24; 9:00pm; Skyfall (PG-13) July 12, Bride & Prejudice (PG-13) July 20, The Avengers (PG-13) Aug. 3, Hairspray (PG) Aug. 10, Rise of the Guardians (PG) Aug. 17, Ghostbusters (PG) Aug. 24. Bring blankets and chairs. Movies at dusk.
*CinemaGig Outdoor Movies – Gig Harbor; 7/12 – 8/17 Friday & Saturdays; Gig Harbor’s outdoor summer theater for families. Bring low chairs and a blanket. Cancelled in cases of rain or high wind. FREE
July 6- The Sandlot (PG) 9:15 p.m.
July 19 – American Graffiti (PG) 9 p.m.
July 20 – The Princess Bride (PG) 9 p.m.
Aug 2 – The Lorax (PG) 8:30 p.m.
Aug 3 – Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest (G) 8:30 p.m.
Aug 16 – Casablanca (PG) 8:15 p.m.
Aug 17 – The Sound of Music (G) 8:15 p.m.
Saturday, July 13th:
*Mercer Island Summer Celebration! – Mercer Island; 7/13 – 7/14; Food, arts and crafts fair, entertainment, kids’ fun zone with entertainment, boat rides (July 13, $10 to $15, pre-register), parade (10 a.m. July 13), fireworks (10 p.m. July 13), car show (July 14.), and more. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 14.
*Story and Craft Time – Bothell; 7/13; 10:00am – 11:00am; Kids will enjoy a themed story time followed by a craft relating to the stories.
Story time provided by Little Explorer Preschool. Happens regularly on the second Saturday of each month. FREE
*Family Nature Walk – Tacoma; 7/13; 10:00am – 11:00am; Explore Tacoma parks during these seasonal naturalist-led walks. Discover the amazing plants and animals that live in these parks and how they adapt to the different seasons. Not recommended for wheelchairs, strollers or children younger than age 3.
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 7/13 & 7/17; 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.
*Family Wetlands Walk – Seattle; 7/13; 10:00am – 11:30am; Join Magnuson Nature Educators for a 90-minute guided tour of the Magnuson wetlands. Each month features hands-on activities and exploration, focused on the seasonal changes of plants and animals that live in this beautiful natural area. Binoculars, field guides, and science tools provided for all. Park in lot E-5 and meet at the wetlands entry trail. All ages. Cost: $3, $7 family.
*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.
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)
*Seafair Milk Carton Derby – Seattle; 7/13; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Features nearly 100 seaworthy crafts made primarily of milk cartons, family activities and food booths. FREE
*Family Fun Fest – Gig Harbor; 7/13; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Games, Reptile Man, music, food, contests and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. FREE, $2 Kidz Zone.
*Wedgwood Art Festival – Seattle; 7/13; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Art, music, food and children’s activities, including art stations to visit, face painting, and Thistle Theater puppet shows “Yo! Ho! Ho! The Pirate Show” and “Mrs. Periwinkle and Possum.” FREE
*Poochapalooza – Marysville; 7/13; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Annual county fair for dogs features contests, dog fashion show, wiener dog races, demonstrations, music, rescue groups, food, vendors and more. $5 suggested donation.
*Story Time for Families – Seattle; 7/13; 11:00am; Families are invited to drop by every second Saturday at 11 a.m. during the summer for story time featuring books that highlight kids who have the courage it takes to act and stand up for what they believe in. FREE
*Queen Anne Festival – Seattle; 7/13; 11:00am – 3:00pm; Follow the parade to the community center for a picnic, inflatables, contests, games and more. FREE
*Wizard Fest – Bothell; 7/13; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Bring the kids for wand-making, music, games and more. FREE
*Lakewood SummerFest – Lakewood; 7/13 – 7/14; Live music, marketplace, food, kid zone ($5), outdoor movie (dusk July 13) and more. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 13, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 14.
*Ballard SeafoodFest – Seattle; 7/13 – 7/14; Celebration of Ballard’s heritage features arts and crafts, food, entertainment and a Kids Zone. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 13, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 14.
*Mill Creek Festival – Mill Creek; 7/13 – 7/14; Entertainment, vendors, food, car show, kid’s activities, pony rides ($5), pet plaza (bring your leashed dog) and more. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 13, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 14. Free shuttles from Jackson High School at 1508 136th St S.E.
*Pioneer Square Fire Festival – Seattle; 7/13; 11:00am – 5:00pm; The Pioneer Square Fire Festival gives attendees of all ages a glimpse into Seattle’s past and features displays by the Last Resort Fire Department, the Seattle Metropolitan Police Museum and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park-Seattle. These displays include antique and classic fire engines, classic police cars, a gold mining demonstration, and other family-friendly activities. FREE
*Urban Craft Uprising – Seattle; 7/13 – 7/14; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Seattle’s largest indie craft show includes vendors and craft demonstrations. July 13-14. FREE
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 7/13 – 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.
*Polish Festival – Seattle; 7/13; 11:00am – 9:00pm; Dance, music, arts and crafts, food, kids’ activities and a fashion show. FREE
*Chinatown-International District Dragon Fest – Seattle; 7/13 – 7/14; Lion and dragon dances, music, drill teams, karaoke, arts and crafts, food, kids’ activity corner and more. Noon to 8 p.m. July 13, noon to 6 p.m. July 14. FREE
*Seattle Outdoor Theater Festival – Seattle; 7/13 & 7/14; various times; See a variety of plays in an all-ages, outdoor format. Bring blankets or chairs. Noon, 2, 5 and 7 p.m. July 13, and 11 a.m. and 2, 5, and 7 p.m. July 14. FREE, donations accepted.
July 13, in the amphitheater: Noon, “Othello” by Last Leaf Productions, 2 p.m., “Henry V” by Seattle Shakespeare Company’s Wooden O, 5 p.m., “The Magic Pudding” by Theater Schmeater, 7 p.m., “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by GreenStage
July 13, on the Seattle Asian Art Museum lawn: Noon, “The Merry Wives of Windsor” by Shakespeare Northwest, 2 p.m., “The Totally True and Almost Accurate Adventures of Pinocchio” by Balagan Theatre, 5 p.m., “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” by Last Leaf Productions 7 p.m., “The Lost Folio” by Jet City Improv
*Taste of Van Asselt – Seattle; 7/13; 12:00pm – 3:00pm; Enjoy food vendors, live music, face painting and a kids’ activity area. FREE
*Jetty Island Geocache Challenge – Everett; 7/13; 12:00pm – 3:00pm; Test your luck and skills on individual or group/family courses. Bring your own GPS unit. Ferry runs 10 a.m. to 8:50 p.m. FREE, donations accepted. $3 parking fee. Reservations strongly encouraged. Non-residents of Everett can make reservations for groups of 8 or more.
*Kids’ Day Train – Chehalis; 7/13; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Activities for kids at the depot include face painting, bubbles, toy trains and prizes. Train rides at 1 and 3 p.m. are $11 ages 16 and older, half-price for ages 4 to 15 ($5.50), free ages 3 and younger.
*Scenic Train Rides – Snoqualmie; 7/13 & 7/14; 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; 7/13 – 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.
*Monocular Making – Bellevue; 7/13; 1:00pm – 2:00pm; Magnifying things in nature can make them easier to learn about. We will make our own monocular and explore the park with our new eye! Pre-registration required. Recommended for ages 6 and older. Cost: $2 to $3.
*Bellevue Art Museums Get Crafty Saturday – Bellevue; 7/13; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*Veggie Car Races – Auburn; 7/13; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Kids can build race cars out of vegetables and watch as they zoom down an inclined track.
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 7/13; 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.
*The Totally True & Almost Accurate Adventures of Pinocchio – Seattle; 7/13 & 7/14; 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
*Mercer Slough Nature Walk – Bellevue; 7/13; 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.
*Bastille Bash – Seattle; 7/13; 3:00pm – 8:00pm; French-inspired food, wine, music, entertainment, cooking and gardening demonstrations, and kids’ activities. FREE, fee for some activities. FREE
*Drive-In Movie Night – Tacoma; 7/13; 4:30pm; Watch The Flintstones (PG) from your car or a blanket on the lawn, plus enjoy concessions, bouncy houses and a zipline ($3 to $5). Haub Field opens at 4:30 p.m., movie at dusk. FREE, donations accepted. Space is limited.
*The Magic Pudding – Seattle; 7/13 – 7/28 Saturdays & Sundays; 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
*Crossroads Bellevue 2nd Saturdays – Bellevue; 7/13; 5:00pm – 9:00pm; Enjoy a family-friendly evening the second Saturday of every month. Activities can include game times, snacks, concerts and more.
*Music & Movies – Lacey; 7/13 – 8/10 Saturdays; 7:00pm; Concert (7 p.m.) and movie (dusk). The Lorax (PG) July 13, Blue Hawaii July 20, Wreck-It Ralph (PG) July 27, Here Comes the Boom (PG) Aug. 3, Captain America (PG) Aug. 10. Bring food or purchase snacks. FREE
*Star Party – Seattle & Shoreline; 7/13; 9:00pm; Dress in warm clothes to view celestial objects through instruments provided by Seattle Astronomical Society. Check online for weather cancellations.
*Popcorn in the Parks – Marysville; 7/13 – 8/17 Saturdays; 9:00pm; Hotel Transylvania (PG) July 13, Shark Tale (PG) July 20, Wreck-It Ralph (PG) July 27, Mary Poppins (G) Aug. 3, War Horse (PG-13) Aug. 10, The Great and Powerful Oz (PG) Aug. 17. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic (popcorn provided). Dusk (approx. 9 p.m.). FREE
Sunday, July 14th:
*Bicycle Sundays – Seattle; 7/14; 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.
*Titlow Park Reopening Celebration – Tacoma; 7/14; 12:00pm – 3:00pm; Pack a picnic and experience the newly renovated park. Take a guided nature walk, play in the new sprayground and tour the Titlow Lodge.
*Morse Preserve Open Trails – Graham; 7/14; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; The public is invited to explore the foot trails and new boardwalk at this monthly event between April and October. Discover distinct habitats from upland forest to riparian to prairies to wetlands. Morse Wildlife Preserve has it all! Please no pets or bicycles. FREE
*Adventure Playground – Mercer Island; 7/14, 7/16, & 7/18; 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; 7/14; 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
*Children’s Nature Movies – Bellevue; 7/14; 2:00pm – 2:30pm; Join us for fun, educational nature movies at Lewis Creek. Popcorn provided. Drop-in; no registration required. Kids younger than age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 425-452-4195 for more information. FREE.
*Family Sundays at the Henry – Seattle; 7/14; 2:00pm – 3:30pm; Family Sundays at the Henry are every second Sunday and are especially for adults and children to learn and create together. Each month we will focus on different activities and ways of seeing. Family Sundays are best suited for elementary-aged students, but we encourage older or younger kids to join in. $10 family, free for members. Space is limited, pre-register.
*Columbia City BeatWalk – Columbia City /Seattle; 7/14; 7:00pm – 10:00pm; BeatWalk always features a diverse line-up of first-rate, local musicians hosted by neighborhood businesses for audiences of all ages. $7 for adults. Free ages 14 and under.
Monday, July 15th:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 7/15; 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.
*The Barber’s Wife – Renton; 7/15; Last Leaf Productions presents this Punjabi tale of two thieves who are outsmarted by the barber’s wife. Ages 3 and older. FREE
*Kids Club Entertainment Series – Bonney Lake; 7/15 – 8/26 Mondays & Tuesdays; 6:30pm – 7:30pm; FREE
July 15 – Last Leaf Theatre
July 16 – Cap’n Arr
July 22 – Caspar Babypants
July 23 – Recess Monkey
July 29 – The Gothard Sisters
July 30 – Rowdy Referees
Aug 5 – The Brian Waite Band
Aug 6 – Buck and Elizabeth
Aug 12 – Eric Ode
Aug 13 – Pacific Science Center
Aug 19 – Reptile Man
Aug 20 – Last Leaf Theatre
Aug 26 – touch-a-truck
Aug 27 – touch-a-truck
Tuesday, July 16th:
*Children’s Concert Series – Kirkland; 7/9 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 10:00am; FREE
July 16 – The Not-Its!
July 23 – Caspar Babypants
July 30 – Eric Ode
Aug 6 – Recess Monkey
Aug 13 – Johnny Bregar
Aug 20 – The Brian Waite Band
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 7/16; 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.
*Nature Stories and Games – Seattle; 7/16 – 7/30 Tuesdays; 10:30am – 11:30am; Join us for an hour of tales and games to delight your senses and increase your connection with the natural world! Learn about our programs for kids ages 4 to 6 in West Seattle. 10:30 a.m. July 16, 6 p.m. July 23 and 30.
*Shoreline Noon Concert Series – Shoreline; 7/16 – 8/13 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Enjoy outdoor performances at two different Shoreline parks every Tuesday at noon through July 9 through Aug. 13. FREE.
July 16: Canote Brothers, Hamlin Park
July 23: Reptile Isle, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
July 30: Arturo Rodriquez and the Rhythm Ambassadors
Aug. 6: Panduo Steel Drums, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
Aug. 13: Recess Monkey, Hamlin Park
*Kids First! Concert Series – Sammamish; 6/16 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Weekly concerts for kids at a variety of locations in Sammamish.
*Noon Tunes – Puyallup; 7/16 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Tweenland July 16, 5 Bit July 23, A Taste of Broadway July 30, Reptile Man Aug. 6, Manimou Camara & Denbaya Aug. 13, Bubbles & Fog Aug. 20.
*Children’s Entertainment Series – Lacey; 7/16 – 8/6 Tuesdays; 6:30pm;
July 16 – Buck & Elizabeth
July 23 – Brownsmead Flats
July 30 – Recess Monkey
Aug 6 – Henrik Bothe
*Summer Movies in the Park – Bellevue; 7/16 – 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. 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 17th:
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 7/17; 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; 7/17; 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; 7/17; 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; 7/17; 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.
*Capital Lakefair – Olympia; 7/17 – 7/21; Food and arts and crafts booths, entertainment, carnival (fee), parade (5 p.m. July 20), fireworks (10 p.m. July 21) and more. No pets. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 17, noon to 11 p.m. July 18-20, noon to midnight July 21.
*Kids SummerStage – Auburn; 7/17 – 8/28 Wednesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Exciting performances designed just for kids. Pack a lunch and enjoy the amenities Les Gove Park has to offer, including a new, state-of-the-art playground and a refreshing spray park, a 1/2 mile trail, the White River Valley Museum and more. Concerts noon Wednesdays July 10 through August 28.
July 17 – The Magic of Jeff Evans
July 24 – Caspar Babypants
July 31 – Roving Reptiles
Aug 7 – The Magic of Louie Foxx
Aug. 14 – Rolie Polie Guacamole
Aug 21 – Sing Along Fun with Nancy Stewart
Aug. 28 – Johnny Bregar
*Wednesdays For Kids! – Kent; 7/10 – 8/14 Wednesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; FREE
Roberto the Magnificent July 17, Doktor Kaboom! July 24, Shókoto July 31, Recess Monkey Aug. 7, Caspar Babypants Aug. 14.
*White Center Jubilee Days – Seattle; 7/17 – 7/21; Fireworks (9:45 p.m. July 17), carnival (July 17-21), car show (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 20), parade (11:30 a.m. July 21), music, food, kids’ area and street fair (10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 21). FREE. Various locations in White Center.
*Open Play & Music Class – Redmond; 7/17; 4:00pm – 7:00pm; The classes will include movement songs like “Head & Shoulders, Knees & Toes” and “The Hokey Pokey” plus music and props such as streamers, chiffon scarves, and bean bags. The children will also have the opportunity to take turns playing different kinds of drums, tambourines and more. Cost: $9, $6 siblings.
*Movies @ Marymoor – Redmond; 7/17 – 8/28 Wednesdays; 7:00pm; Big-screen movies, cirque performers, movie trivia and the region’s best food trucks. Bring blankets and warm clothes for a comfortable evening. All events are dog friendly. Premovie seating is $5, starting at 7 p.m., and movies show at dusk.
Pitch Perfect (PG-13) July 17, The Incredibles (PG) July 24, The Hunger Games (PG-13) July 31, 10 Things I Hate About You (PG-13) Aug. 7, Mary Poppins (G) Aug. 14, Jurassic Park (PG-13) Aug. 21, The Goonies (PG) Aug. 28.
*Wildlife Wednesdays Movie Series – Everett; 7/17 – 7/31 Wednesdays; 7:00pm; WALL-E (G) July 17, Hoot (PG) July 24, Free Willy (PG) July 31. FREE, must pre-register by phone.
*Bat Walk – Seattle; 7/17; 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
Thursday, July 18th :
*Children’s Concerts – Everett; 7/18 – 8/22 Thursdays; 10:00am; Tim Noah July 18, Caspar Babypants July 25, Eric Herman & the Thunder Puppies Aug. 1, Recess Monkey Aug. 8, Rolie Polie Guacamolie Aug. 15, The Brian Waite Band Aug. 22. FREE
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 7/18; 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
*Seattle Presents: Orkestar Zirkonium – Seattle; 7/18; 12:00pm – 1:30pm; This mobile, 13-member, brass-and-drum ensemble borrows from a variety of musical traditions, composes original music, and kicks out celebratory spectacle. The band’s up-tempo sounds inspire street parties, traditional Eastern European line dances and the ecstatic abandonment of reason. Presented by the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture in partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, Metropolitan Improvement District and Triamp Group.
*Half Priced Admission Imagine Childrens Museum – Everett; 7/18; 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*Pirate’s Plunder Party – Seattle; 7/18; 5:00pm – 7:00pm; Enjoy pirate-themed fun like treasure hunting, crafts and more. Recommended for ages 3 to 8. $5, must pre-register.
*Tacoma Art Walk – Tacoma; 7/18; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; Visit Tacoma’s downtown galleries during the third Thursday artwalk. FREE, includes the Museum of Glass, Washington State History Museum (free 2 to 8 p.m.) and Tacoma Art Museum.
*FREE Third Thursdays at KidsQuest – Bellevue; 7/18;5:00pm – 8:00pm; Enjoy free admission 5 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.
*Summer Life – Seattle; 7/18 – 8/29 Thursdays; 5:30pm – 8:00pm; 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.
*Thursday Nights at Olympic Sculpture Park – Seattle; 7/18 – 8/29 Thursdays; 5:30pm – 8:00pm; Live entertainment, art tours (6:30 p.m.), hands-on art activities and more. Food trucks will be on site 5:30 to 8 p.m. See schedule of entertainment online. Thursdays July 11 through Aug. 29. FREE
*Family Fitness Night with Sounders FC and Subway – Seattle; 7/18; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Sounders FC players will share training, fitness and nutrition tips with local youth and their families. Families will be led through a series of interactive exercises including soccer drills, basketball, jump rope and Zumba. SUBWAY® restaurants will provide sandwiches and Sounders FC prizes to families in attendance. Al Davies Tacoma Boys & Girls Club, 1620 S. 17th St, Tacoma WA 98405. Call 253-502-4631 for more information
* Outdoor Movies at Magnuson Park – Seattle; 7/18 – 8/29 Thursdays; 7:00pm; Bring blankets, dogs and lawn chairs. Leashed dogs welcome. Food trucks on site. 7 p.m. entertainment, movie at dusk. Cost: $5.
Singin’ in the Rain (G) July 18, Finding Nemo (G) July 25, The Sandlot (PG) Aug 8, Raiders of the Lost Ark (PG) Aug. 15, Singles (PG-13) Aug. 22, The Princess Bride (PG) Aug. 29.
*Henry V - various Puget Sound locations; 7/18; 7:00pm – 9:00pm; See Wooden O perform Shakespeare in an all-ages, outdoor format. Bring blankets or low chairs. FREE, donations accepted. Various days and locations July 11 through August 11.
*Family Movies in the Park – Snohomish; 7/18 – 8/15 Thursdays; 7:00pm; Rise of the Guardians (PG) 9:30 p.m. July 18, Brave (PG) 9:20 p.m. July 25, Men in Black 3 (PG-13) 9:15 p.m. Aug. 1, The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) 9 p.m. Aug. 8, The Avengers (PG-13) 8:50 p.m. Aug. 15. Bring blankets and low-back chairs, snacks available for purchase. Seating begins 7:00 p.m. with pre-movie entertainment. FREE, donations accepted.
*Karaoke and Outdoor Movie – Arlington; 7/18 & 7/25; 7:00pm; The evening begins with karaoke at 7 p.m., followed by an outdoor movie at dusk (approx. 9 p.m.). Free popcorn and water from Arlington Kiwanis. Bring a blanket for terraced seating. July 18: “Rise of the Guadians” (PG), July 25: “Brave” (PG). FREE
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, July 12th :
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 7/12; 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.
*TurkeyRama in McMinnville – McMinnville; 7/12 – 7/13; Fabulous community festival honors the once-thriving turkey business with turkey BBQ (5+ tons!) 11 am-5 pm July 13. Festival features carnival rides, car show, street dance, foot race, lots of entertainment, more. Historic Downtown McMinnville will once again be filled with sidewalk sales, booths, music and a variety of entertainment and fun activities for the whole family. Downtown activities will be open 11 AM to 10 PM on Friday and 10 AM to 10 PM on Saturday. See web page for detailed schedule.
*Ice Cream Churn-a-ment at Pioneer Courthouse Square – Portland; 7/12; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; An all-star group of local chefs demonstrate ice cream recipes developed to capture the taste of summer in Oregon using old-fashioned hand crank churns while they race to completion. Ice cream lovers of all ages are invited to watch the competition and sample some of the 22 million gallons of ice cream produced in Oregon every year.
*Berry Festival at Ecotrust Building – Portland; 7/12; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; There is no better way to spend a day with family and friends. The Oregon Berry Festival has something for all ages. A children’s booth with activities and take home crafts, a main stage with cooking demos featuring berries, of course, and booths filled with fresh berries, berry candies, berry wine, berry cupcakes, berry vinegars and berry varieties and products you have only dreamt about. FREE
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 7/12; 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; 7/12 – 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; 7/12; 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
*Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Summer Concert Series – McMinnville; 7/12; 5:30pm – 8:30pm; Join us for an evening of music on the lawn with wine, beer, and food (for purchase). Tonight, The Ben Rice Band. Cost: $3
*Free Friday Night Movies in Esther Short Park: The Adventures of Tin Tin – Vancouver; 7/12; 6:00pm – 9:00pm; Check out these FREE family-friendly movies at various parks around Vancouver! Bring a blanket or some lawn chairs, grab a bite to eat at the park, or pack some snacks – come early for the pre-show entertainment
Saturday, July 13th:
*Kids Cook Classes at Portland Farmers Market – Portland; 7/13; 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. For kids ages 7-11. For more information and to register for this class contact Anna Curtin at anna@portlandfarmersmarket.org or call 503-241-0032. Cost: $5
*Revels’ Summer Faire at PSU Farmer’s Market – Portland; 7/13; 9:00am – 2:00pm; A colorful day of multicultural music, dance, face painting, story telling and other family activities. FREE
*Saturday Morning Music Time at TreeHouse Children’s Boutique – Portland; 7/6; 10:00am; Treehouse Children’s Boutique has music every Saturday morning at 10 am. Each week one of Portland’s favorite children’s entertainers will be there to play and sing. $5 per child. Coffee, tea and snacks available for donation. Check out the Facebook page or website for performer details www.misstreehouse.com
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 7/13; 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.
*Kid Fit! Action Event at Jesuit High School – Portland; 7/13; 10:00am – 1:00pm; Time to Get In Shape & Stay In Shape! Come out for fun and move your body! Anytime between 10am- 1pm at Jesuit High School’s Track. Kids will work with local coaches, PE Teachers and High School Athletes and learn about fun fitness & activity ideas, dance & other movement and learn skills. Health and nutrition experts will be on site. Show up with athletic gear on, bring some water, and get ready to move.
*Sandy Mountain Festival – Sandy; 7/13; 10:00am – 8:00pm; Entertainment, carnival rides, art show and more. FREE
*Mississippi Street Fair – Portland; 7/13; 10:00am – 9:00pm; Street fair fun with lotsa music and a special kids stage in Mississippi Pizza noon-5:30 pm.
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland ; 7/13; 10:30am to 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Al’s Kids Club at Al’s Garden Center – Sherwood; 7/13; 11:00am; Hooked on Hummingbirds. Invite the dynamos of the bird world into your backyard. Their spectacular beauty, fearless nature and astonishing powers of flight captivate our attention and make hummingbirds among the most loved birds. In this class, learn more about this amazing little bird and how to attract it to your yard. Saturday, July 20th at Al’s in Gresham. 503-491-0771. Registration is required. Cost: $5
*Edgefield’s Birthday Celebration – Troutdale; 7/13; 11:00am – 10:00pm; Celebrate a century-plus-two with us! We’ll have live music, food and drink specials, history tours and more. FREE
*Bashful Bears at the Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/13; 11:30am; Did you know that black bears are mostly vegetarians? We often fear our bashful neighbor the bear, but join us at the Tillamook Forest Center to learn how the black bears in the Tillamook State Forest are mostly misunderstood. Come learn fascinating facts about our bear population, feel the pelt of a bear, and find out what to do if you meet one in the woods (or your backyard!).
*Bastille Day at Director Park – Portland; 7/13; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; Live music on the main stage throughout the day. The Portland Waiters Race will start at 2:30pm. New this year: an art exhibit with “en plein air” painters and a raffle in the new Place des arts. Elsewhere in the park will be many fun activities, a huge French book sale hosted by the Alliance Française, art & craft vendors (including many importers of French products). Look for virtually every French immersion school in Portland to be represented, and offering a wide range of children’s activities.
*Second Saurday at Vancouver’s Water Center – Vancouver; 7/13; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Come to the Water Center and enjoy some of your favorite activities from our Science in the Park series. Second Saturdays at the Water Resources Education Center are not only fun, they’re free! Each second Saturday of the month, from 1 to 3 p.m., kids and their families are invited to explore a different topic through hands-on activities, games and stories. Create bird feeders and other crafts to welcome wildlife to your backyard! Learn about the amazing world of bubbles! Make a piece of art from reused materials! There’s always something new waiting at Second Saturdays! Please note: Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
*Creature Cabins at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/13, 1:30pm or 7/14, 11:30am; The animals of the Tillamook State Forest are at home in the woods! They occupy nests, holes, dens and more. Come play an interactive game and learn about the special places where animals live.
*Ice Cream Social at Birds & Bees Nursery – Portland; 7/13; 2:00pm – 4:00pm; 2nd Annual Ice Cream Social, Buy 3 get 1 free plants all day, Free French press coffee next door at Kenilworth Coffee House during event, Free, Handmade Ice Cream. FREE
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 7/13; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*West Linn Street Dance – West Linn; 7/13; 4:45pm -11:00pm; Street fair fun with music, dancing, jugglers and more. Rock the night away! FREE
Sunday, July 14th:
*Bee-friendly Storytime & Honey Tasting in NE PDX – Portland; 7/14; 10:30am – 11:15am; As part of Sabin Community Association’s Bee-Friendly Backyard Tour, Kara DeGiovanni (co-founder of Portland Early Learning Project) will share fun, bee-eautiful books all about our precious bees in a quiet backyard setting. We will also taste a variety of honeys during our time together! Most apt for ages 4-8, but all are welcome. Walk up the driveway, through the gate, and into the small garden house! NOTE: Address is 4821 NE 14th “Ave,” not “Place.”
*Curious Garden at the Curious Comedy Theater – Portland; 7/14; 10:30am – 11:30am; The Curious Garden is back! Come see our old friends Razzie the Fairy, Daisy the Flower and Jojo the Lawnjockey – and meet our new garden friends Ribbit the Frog, Dottie the Ladybug and Flappy the Chicken! The Curious Garden is a show for all ages – especially kids 0-8. Every month on the second Sunday at 10:30am. And remember each episode ends with an open mic where you can sing, dance, tell a joke and show off your talent at the Curious Garden. Cost: $5 suggested donation.
*A Day at Baggenstos Family Farm – Sherwood; 7/14; 11:00am – 2:00pm; Beit Haverim and PJ Library invite you to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a day at the farm! Pcinic tables are limited so consider bringing along a picnic blanket. Free to all.
*Youth Health Fair at Beaverton Community Center – Beaverton; 7/14; 12:00pm – 3:30pm; “You Got to Move It, Move It!” is the theme of our 2nd annual Youth Health Fair. Our event features fun activites, sports and games to educate families and youth about the choices they have for healthy living. Healthy food choices and and health care are also highlighted. We will have a bicycle safety course with helmit safety checks and a limited number of replacement helmets for children. We have a special area just for the little ones (ages 2-4) with activities and games just for them. Come join us for an afternoon of fun for the family! Sponsored by the `O.H.A.N.A. Foundation. FREE
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 7/14; 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).
*Alpenrose’s Dairyville – Portland; 7/14; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Alpenrose Dairy, Oregon’s oldest fami