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!
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)
Oliver! — Outdoor Musical Theater for the Whole Family (Seattle; 7/20 – 7/21 & 7/27 – 7/28; tickets start at $10 plus service fee)
Little Women: The Broadway Musical From SecondStory Repertory (Seattle; 7/26 – 8/4 weekends; tickets start at $13.50 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)
Stars Beam Down to Official Star Trek Convention in Seattle (Seattle; 8/24 & 8/25; tickets start at $15 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, July 19th :
*White Center Jubilee Days – Seattle; 7/19 – 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.
*Paint Me a Story - Bellevue; 7/19; 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
*Nature Alphabet – Tacoma; 7/19; 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; 7/19: 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.
*Free Tête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 7/19; 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.
*Bite of Seattle – Seattle; 7/19 – 7/21; Features more than 60 restaurants, nine entertainment stages, Family Fun Zone, chef demonstrations and more. No pets. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 19-20, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 21.
*Capital Lakefair – Olympia; 7/19 – 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.
*KIDSTAGE Entertainment – Everett; 7/19 – 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; 7/19; 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.
*Kla Ha Ya Days – Snohomish; 7/19 – 7/21; Frogtatstic Kids’ Fair 3 to 7 p.m. July 19, 5-mile River Run & Kids’ Dash (8 a.m. July 20), parade (10:30 a.m. July 20), bed races (July 20), street fair (July 20), food, silly contests (July 20), music, car show (July 21), carnival July 19-21, and more. Most activities 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 21.
*Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow – Seattle; 7/19 – 7/21; Traditional singing, dance and drum groups, arts and crafts, food booths and salmon bake. 4 to 10 p.m. July 19 (grand entry 7 p.m.) FREE. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 20 (grand entries 1 and 7 p.m.), 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 21 (grand entry 1 p.m.). $5, free ages 12 and younger.
*Twirl Café Movie Night Social – Seattle; 7/19; 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.
*FREE Friday Night Live at Imagine Children’s Museum – Everett; 7/19; 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.
*Pirate Treasure Hunt – Seattle; 7/19; 6:00pm; Put on your eye patch and bandana and follow the clues in search for hidden treasure with the help from REAL pirates. A backyard BBQ will follow. Cost: $3 per person or $10 per family.
*Happy Birthday, Light Reign! – Seattle; 7/19; 6:00pm – 8:30pm; Celebrate the 10th birthday of James Turrell’s site-specific Skyspace, “Light Reign,” commissioned by the Henry to commemorate the museum’s 75th anniversary. Both inside and outside the Skyspace, local artists, performers, and poets will explore ideas about the psychology of visual perception, celestial events, light and optics, and self-awareness through silence and contemplation. Learn about how the Skyspace was built and the logistics of maintaining all of its working parts.
*Backyard Bard: The Merry Wives of Windsor – Seattle; 7/19 & 7/20; 7:00pm; An outdoor, all-ages, four-actor, 45-minute production. FREE, donations accepted.
*Seattle Rock Orchestra Student Concert – Seattle; 7/19; 7:00pm; Middle and high school students from Seattle Rock Orchestra’s Summer Intensive program will perform songs by a variety of bands including The Beatles, Arcade Fire, Queen, David Bowie, Radiohead, Muse, Stevie Wonder and more. FREE, donations encouraged.
*Cinema on the Sound – University Place; 7/19; 7:00pm; E.T. the Extra Terrestrial (PG). Grab a blanket and your favorite lawn chair. Come early for pre-show activities starting at 7 p.m. Movie starts at dusk.
*The Tempest – various Puget Sound locations; 7/19 – 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; 7/19 – 7/26 Fridays; 7:00pm; Outdoor concerts at Magnuson Park. FREE, donations accepted.
July 19: Northwest Gospel Jazz Band
July 26: Caspar Babypants; Family Garden Day/Magnuson Children’s Garden – PCC Kid Picks van
*Shakespeare in the Park – Greater Seattle; July & August; various times; GreenStage’s outdoor, all-ages production with shows throughout the Seattle area in July and August. FREE, donations accepted.
*Cinema Under the Stars – Everett; 7/19 – 8/16 Fridays; 7:30pm; Family entertainment (7:30 p.m.) and movie (dusk). Bring blankets and chairs. The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) July 19, Wreck-It Ralph (PG) July 26, Big Miracle (PG) Aug. 2, The Amazing Superman (PG-13) Aug. 9, Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) Aug. 16.
*Movies Under the Stars at Swedish/Edmonds – Edmonds; 7/19 – 8/16 Fridays; 8:00pm; The Lion King (G) July 19, Bee Movie (PG) Aug. 9, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (PG) Aug. 16. Free popcorn and lemonade. Seating on site for first 200 guests, can also bring blankets. Dusk.
*Bite of Seattle Outdoor Movie: The Goonies – Seattle; 7/19; 8:30pm; See “The Goonies” (PG). Bring blankets and chairs and arrive early to claim your spot. FREE
*CinemaGig Outdoor Movies – Gig Harbor; 7/19 – 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 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 20th :
*Tiptoe Through the Tidepools – Tacoma; 7/20; 9:00am; Get an up-close look at the marine life with touch tanks and beach naturalists guiding the low-tide exploration. This is a free event and no registration is needed. Please wear shoes suitable for exploring a rocky beach.
*Beach Exploration – various Seattle beaches; 7/20 & 7/21; 9:30am; Join beach naturalists and explore the beach at low tide. Dress for the weather; waterproof footwear recommended. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, 2021 N.W. 190th St., Shoreline. Carkeek Park, 950 N.W. Carkeek Park Road, Seattle. Golden Gardens, 8498 Seaview Place N.W., Seattle. South Alki Beach Park, 1702 Alki Ave. S.W., Seattle. Lincoln Park, 8011 Fauntleroy Way S.W., Seattle. Ed Munro Seahurst Park, 2400 S.W. 140th Street, Seattle. Olympic Sculpture Park Pocket Beach, 2901 Western Ave., Seattle.
*Beach Exploration – Des Moines; 7/20 & 7/21; 9:30am; Join beach naturalists and explore the beach at low tide. Dress for the weather; waterproof footwear recommended. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 20, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 21.
*Covington Days Festival – Covington; 7/20 & 7/21; Music, parade (10 a.m. July 20), arts and crafts vendors, food, kids’ zone, watermelon-eating contest (3 p.m. July 20), geocaching (July 21) and more. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 21.
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 7/20 & 7/24; 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.
*Seahurst Saturdays – Burien; 7/2o & 7/21; 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 20: Beach Exploration (especially for ages 2 to 6)
July 21: Seawall Send-off (registration not required)
*Chalk the Harbor – Gig Harbor; 7/20; 10:00am – 3:00pm; Children and adults are invited to decorate the sidewalks of Gig Harbor’s Historic Waterfront with chalk art. Maritime theme encouraged. Bring a chair or knee pads. Ride the “Around the Sound” transit between participating sidewalk districts. Prizes for six different categories. Register starting at 10 a.m. at downtown Judson or Finholm locations.
*Vashon Island Strawberry Festival – Vashon Island; 7/20 & 7/21; Food, arts and crafts, music events, parade (11 a.m. July 20), classic car parade (noon July 21), family activities, carnival rides, pancake breakfast and more. Shuttle from Vashon ferry terminal $1 each way. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 21.
*Free Wing Luke Museum Entrance – Seattle; 7/20; 10:00am – 8:00pm; The Wing Luke Museum offers free admission on the third Saturday of each month, for family day.
*West Seattle Grand Parade – Seattle; 7/20; 11:00am; Float-Dodger 5K run (9:45 a.m., $30 to $35), followed by parade with pirates, clowns, marching bands, drill teams, floats and more. Kids parade 11 a.m., grand parade 11:15 a.m.
*Mediterranean Fantasy Fest – Seattle; 7/20 & 7/21; 11:00am; Cultural displays, vendors, food, and dance performances, primarily belly dancing. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 21.
*Raspberry Fest – Arlington; 7/20; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Animals, rides, games and other kids’ activities, plus food and a jam contest. FREE, fee for some activities.
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 7/20 – 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.
*Vintage Plane Fly Day – Everett; 7/20; 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.
*Scenic Train Rides – Snoqualmie; 7/20 & 7/21; 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; 7/20 & 7/21; 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.
*SandBlast Arts Festival – Duvall; 7/20 & 7/21; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; Sand sculpturing, arts and crafts fair, music and more. Noon to 6 p.m. July 20-21.
*Green Hour - Bellevue; 7/20; 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.
*Bellevue Art Museums Get Crafty Saturday – Bellevue; 7/20; 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; 7/20; 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; 7/20; 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; 7/20 & 7/21; 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
*Pinehurstfest – Seattle; 7/20; 2:00pm – 5:00pm; Live entertainment, kid’s activities, and community information. FREE
*The Magic Pudding – Seattle; 7/20 – 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
*Waterland Parade – Des Moines; 7/20; 5:45pm; Annual parade during the Des Moines Classic Car & Wooden Boat Show. Children’s Parade at 5:45 p.m., main parade at 6 p.m.
*Music & Movies – Lacey; 7/20 – 8/10 Saturdays; 7:00pm; Concert (7 p.m.) and movie (dusk). 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
*Sounds & Cinema – Puyallup; 7/20 – 8/24 Saturdays; 7:30pm; Madagascar 3 (PG) July 20, The Odd Life of Timothy Green (PG) Aug. 3, Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) Aug. 24. Bring a blanket and chairs. Concessions sold. Live music 7:30 p.m., movie at dusk.
*Outdoor Summer Movie Series – Redmond; 7/20– 8/24; 9:00pm; 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.
*Popcorn in the Parks – Marysville; 7/20 – 8/17 Saturdays; 9:00pm; 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 21st:
*Caspar Babypants Performance – Mercer Island; 7/21; 11:00am – 12:30pm; Sing along with the catchy tunes of Casper Babypants as you shop for fresh, local produce.
*Adventure Playground – Mercer Island; 7/21, 7/23, & 7/25; 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; 7/21; 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
*Chinatown Seafair Parade – Seattle; 7/21; 7:00pm; Features lion and dragon dances, martial arts, Seattle Chinese Girls Drill Team and more.
Monday, July 22nd:
*Explore the Shore – Tacoma; 7/22; 10:00am; Join Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium naturalists for low tide beach walks where you will identify tide pool animals and record their presence and location in order to add the information to the scientific NatureMapping database. This opportunity is great for ages 5 to adult and is a fun and exciting way to learn about the biological diversity of local beaches and to better understand how to protect them. Each event will begin with a short introduction to tide pool animals. Come prepared with sunscreen and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking on a gravel beach. 11 a.m. June 9, 12:30 p.m. June 26, 10 a.m. July 7 and July 22.
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 7/22; 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.
*Kids Club Entertainment Series – Bonney Lake; 7/22 – 8/26 Mondays & Tuesdays; 6:30pm – 7:30pm; FREE
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 23rd:
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 7/23; 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.
*Children’s Concert Series – Kirkland; 7/23 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 10:00am; FREE
July 23 – Caspar Babypants
July 30 – Eric Ode
Aug 6 – Recess Monkey
Aug 13 – Johnny Bregar
Aug 20 – The Brian Waite Band
*Sand Sculpting Contest – Edmonds; 7/23; 10:00am – 12:30pm; Fun, free, amateur contest open to all ages. Form a team or build on your own. Bring your own buckets and shovels. Sign up at Marina Beach at 10 a.m. and start building. Judging at noon and awards at 12:30 p.m.
*Nature Stories and Games – Seattle; 7/23 – 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; 7/23 – 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 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
*Hazel Miller Plaza Concerts – Edmonds; 7/23 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Folk Voice Band July 23, Roberto the Magnificent July 30, Ali Marcus Aug. 6, Rick Huddle Aug. 13, Magic by Jeff Evans Aug. 20, Toy Box Trio Aug. 27. FREE.
*Kids First! Concert Series – Sammamish; 7/23 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Weekly concerts for kids at a variety of locations in Sammamish.
*Noon Tunes – Puyallup; 7/23 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; 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; 7/23 – 8/6 Tuesdays; 6:30pm;
July 23 – Brownsmead Flats
July 30 – Recess Monkey
Aug 6 – Henrik Bothe
*Summer Movies in the Park – Bellevue; 7/23 – 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. 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 24th:
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 7/24; 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.
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 7/24; 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; 7/24; 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.
*Rabbit Tales – Bellevue; 7/24; 11:00am – 11:30am; Teen farm volunteers and staff will introduce you to the world of domestic rabbits. Learn what they eat and where they live. Have an opportunity to meet our resident rabbits. Listen to a bunny story, and create a craft to take home. Suggested donation of $1 person, $5 family.
*Kids SummerStage – Auburn; 7/24 – 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 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
*Instrument Petting Zoo – Mukilteo; 7/24; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Experienced players help children to hold instruments properly and produce their first sounds on strings, woodwinds and brass instruments. Noon to 1 p.m. July 10, 24 and Aug. 7.
*Children’s Concert Series – Mill Creek; 7/24 – 8/14; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; The Brian Waite Band July 24, Nancy Stewart July 31, Buck & Elizabeth Aug. 7, Tia Quackertunes Aug. 14. Bring non-perishable food bank donation.
*Wednesdays For Kids! – Kent; 7/24 – 8/14 Wednesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; FREE
Doktor Kaboom! July 24, Shókoto July 31, Recess Monkey Aug. 7, Caspar Babypants Aug. 14.
*Open Play & Music Class – Redmond; 7/24; 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.
*Swingin’ Summer Eve – Shoreline; 7/24; 5:30pm – 8:30pm; Community festival with inflatables, live music, fundraiser BBQ, and a used book sale. FREE, some activities require a small fee.
*Greenwood Seafair Parade – Seattle; 7/24; 6:00pm – 8:30pm; Bands, drill teams, floats, pirates and more.
*Movies @ Marymoor – Redmond; 7/24 – 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.
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; 7/24 – 7/31 Wednesdays; 7:00pm; Hoot (PG) July 24, Free Willy (PG) July 31. FREE, must pre-register by phone.
Thursday, July 25th :
*Children’s Concerts – Everett; 7/25 – 8/22 Thursdays; 10:00am; 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; 7/25; 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
*Tugboat Storytime – Seattle; 7/25; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Listen to stories about boats and the sea aboard the Arthur Foss, a 100-year-old tugboat. After stories, there is time to explore the boat. This is an indoor/outdoor activity; dress accordingly. Ages 2 to 5. 11 a.m. to noon July 11 and 25. Not intended for preschool groups.
*Eric Ode Concert – Bellevue; 7/25; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Hear music and poetry for kids about all things underground.
*Seattle Presents: St. Paul de Vence – Seattle; 7/25; 12:00pm – 1:30pm; Rising stars in the local indie scene, St. Paul de Vence is a dynamic band of brothers, each an artist in their own right, that weave together their multi-instrumental and vocal-harmony talents with a natural ease and joy reminiscent of Crosby, Stills and Nash. Presented by the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture in partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, Metropolitan Improvement District and Triamp Group. FREE
*Half Priced Admission Imagine Childrens Museum – Everett; 7/25; Thursday 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*UPS Road Code Challenge – Seattle; 7/25; 4:30pm – 6:30pm; UPS Road Code focuses on different safety principles each week, from basic instruction to the consequences of risky behaviors such as talking on cell phones, texting or drinking while driving. Throughout the program, teens have a chance to practice what they’ve learned on the driving simulators, which feature a computer screen that serves as a windshield to the program’s interactive animation, a steering wheel and life-like gas and brake pedals.
*Summer Life – Seattle; 7/25 – 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; 7/25 – 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
*Summer Concert and Ice Cream Social – Seattle; 7/25; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Bring a picnic to the park and enjoy live music. There will be a bounce house for kids and we will be serving up ice cream for a dollar a scoop. Suggested donation $2.
* Outdoor Movies at Magnuson Park – Seattle; 7/25 – 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.
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; 7/25; 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; 7/25 – 8/15 Thursdays; 7:00pm; 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; 7/25; 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 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 19th:
*Sherwood Robin Hood Festival – Sherwood; 7/19 – 7/21; Archery tournament July 20-21, 2013 between Sherwood, Oregon and Nottingham, England. At the annual summer festival, enjoy live entertainment on two stages, medieval re-enactments, Maid Marian’s Court, Robin Hood and his merry men, a popular community parade, a knighting ceremony, castle building and flower contests, a teen dance, a kids area, crafts, lots of music, delicious food, a beer and wine garden (including selections from local wineries and breweries) and a wide variety of activities, with over 100 vendors in our Old Town vendor village.
*Ladybug Nature Walk: Sellwood Peninsula Park - Portland; 7/19; 10:00am – 11:00am; Naturalist led stroll. Ages 2-5, with grown-up. Cost: $3 per child
July 19: Peninsula Park.
July 26: Maricara Natural Area -not stroller accessible.
*Music Class with Mo Phillips at The Treehouse – Portland; 7/19; 10:00am; He has devised a fine, distiller music blend of americana! Soul and blues In his secret ninja laboratory and is not afraid of a poppy hook, or straight rocking’ out! Best for ages 0-6. Cost: $5/child.
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 7/19; 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.
*Glendi Greek Festival – Beaverton; 7/19 – 7/21; Get ready to experience mouth-watering food from Greece and around the world, as well as entertainment and children’s activities in an outdoor festival atmosphere. Learn to Greek Dance. Face painting, crafts, pony rides and an inflatable bounce house will be waiting in the children’s area for them to enjoy. Check out the children’s area for more details. Curtis Carlyle is know for his seriously funny juggling! Catch this act at our 5th annual Glendi and enjoy 30 minutes of side-splitting comedy, juggling, and entertainment fun. 3 tokens per person. July 19, 1, 2 pm. July 19 Friday: 11 am – 9 pm. July 20 Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm. July 21 Sunday: 12 pm – 7 pm.
*Nature’s Yucky at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/19 & 7/20; 11:30am; Did you know that salmon rot while they are still alive? That turkey vultures poop on their feet? Or that honey is actually bee barf? Several wild animals of the Tillamook often have icky and gross behaviors, but for good reasons. Join us for a program filled with “eeewwws” and “aahhhs” as we discover that nature can be disgusting, but also beautiful.
*Battle Ground Harvest Days; 7/19 – 7/21; Kids’ activities, car cruise, carnival rides, talent show, more. Noon-11 pm July 19, 20 (kids’ activities end at 8 pm). 10 am-5 pm July 21. Parade 10 am July 20.
*Water Wonders! at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/19 & 7/20; 12:30pm – 1:00pm; Bring your sandals and shorts and get wet in the waters of the Tillamook State Forest! Naturalists will provide the equipment to lead you through the world of aquatic insects, to get an up-close look at their cool and crazy adaptations. Learn how their presence or absence is influenced by the quality of their habitat and how other animals depend on these bugs as well.
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 7/19; 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; 7/19 – 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
*Trees of the Tillamook Forest Walk at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/19 & 7/20; 2:30pm – 3:00pm; Join us on a leisurely tree walk at the Tillamook Forest Center! We will be taking an easy stroll, seeking some of the diverse tree species that comprise our Coastal Range forests. Learn the many benefits of these forest giants and some crafty ways to spot them in the woods. **Path is ADA accessible and easily trekked with strollers or wheelchairs.
$5 Friday Artshop at Art a la Carte – Portland; 7/19; 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; 7/19 – 8/2 Fridays; 5:30pm – 8:00pm; Join us for an evening of music on the lawn with wine, beer, and food (for purchase).
*West Linn Old Time Fair - West Linn; 7/19 & 7/20; West Linn’s home-grown community festival, the Old Time Fair, will be held in July in beautiful Willamette Park at the foot of 12th St. As always, the fair will feature great food, musical entertainment, carnival rides, custom car show, games, and activities for the whole family. Parade along Willamette Dr. 10 am July 20.
*Free Friday Night Movies – various Vancouver parks; 7/19; 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 2oth :
*Let’s Go Birding – Gervais; 7/20; 8:00am – 10:00am; Do you have an appreciation for birds and want some experience on how best to see them? Or are you an experienced birder wanting to help with bird surveys? Then Let’s Go Birding is for you! On our introductory walk, we’ll help you understand binoculars – from choosing sizes and magnifications to proper use. We’ll also give you some birding tips and techniques to help you become better acquainted with our feathered friends. Birding is also a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy nature! Binoculars and guide books are provided. Please bring your own water and sunscreen, dress appropriately for the weather, and wear good hiking shoes.
*Kids Cook Classes at Portland Farmers Market – Portland; 7/20; 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
*Celebrate Hillsboro – Hillsboro; 7/20; 9:00am – 4:00pm; Music, free health screenings, arts and crafts, eco-friendly activities.
*Gresham Art Walk – Gresham; 7/20; 9:00am – 5:00pm; During the Gresham Art Walk, more than 140 artists from Oregon and Southwest Washington will sell their original works along scenic Main Avenue between First and Fifth streets. The family event also includes live music, free childrens’ arts and crafts, and unique shops and restaurants in the Downtown core. Art for sale includes garden art, pottery, photography, jewelry, watercolors, textiles, glass, wood, oil paintings and much more. Meet the artists behind the work!
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 7/20; 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.
*Saturday Morning Music Time at TreeHouse Children’s Boutique – Portland; 7/20; 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
*Summer Safety Fair at Lloyd Center – Portland; 7/20; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Join Radio Disney’s Monsters University Orientation near the Legacy Funland Play Area! The Radio Disney Road Crew will rockin’ out to the latest hits, playing monstrously fun games, quizzin’ your safety knowledge, teachin’ you some Scaring 101, making school spirit crafts, handing out prizes and more. $6 bike helmets and fitting, safety experts.
*Portland Saturday Market Celebrates 40 Years – Portland; 7/20; 10:00am – 4:00pm; The two day celebration will include numerous activities, daily give-a-ways, artist demonstrations, as well as all the Market’s artisans selling handcrafted wares, an international food court and a main stage featuring local Pacific Northwest favorites.
*Yoshida’s Sand in the City at Pioneer Courthouse Square – Portland; 7/20; 10:00am – 9:00pm; Yoshida’s Sand in the City features fun for all ages with majestic sand sculptures, interactive youth exhibits, live music, entertainment and more. In addition to the stunning sand sculptures, Yoshida’s Sand in the City will host outstanding activities for kids at the Children’s Inspiration Village. Families can interact with the Kids on the Block puppets, experiment with science and do sand art projects! Kids can build their own castle in our giant Sand Box, have their face painted, or take in one of our live performances happening all weekend. FREE- donations welcome.
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland ; 7/20; 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 – Gresham; 7/20; 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. Registration is required 503-491-0771. . Cost: $5
*Musicalu- Gresham; 7/20 – 9/8 select Saturdays; 11:00am; 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.
July 20 – Mo Phillips – Sweet, lo-fi kindie-rock vibe for kids and adults
Aug. 10 – Mr. Hoo – Fun, mostly original music for kids and families
Aug. 24 – The Toy Trains – Music for kids that won’t make mom and dad sick
Sept. 8 – Mo Phillips & Special Guests – End summer on a high note with Mo and his friends
*Family Tour Port of Vancouver - Vancouver; 7/20; 11:00am – 1:00pm; 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.
*Museum Family Saturday at the Maritime Museum – Portland; 7/20; 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.
*Fire in the Park in Vancouver’s Esther Short Park – Vancouver; 7/20; 11:00am – 5:00pm; A fundraising event by Vancouver Firefighters local union 452. While local 452 is the primary organizer, many firefighters from different fire districts in the area participate to make this a successful event for our community. It is a day of fun with a firefighter challenge, pipe and drum bands, chili cookoff, live music, kids events, great food and a beer garden. Free admission to event, donations appreciated.
*Edible Plants Walk at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 7/20; 11:30am – 12:00pm; Join our naturalist on a guided walk through family-friendly trails, searching for plants that people have been eating for millennia. Identify plants that are not poisonous and learn which ailments these plants have been used to treat throughout history.
*Children’s Day at Portland Aerial Tram – Portland; 7/20; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Fun children’s activities, including face painting, crafts and more. (Kids 17 and younger can ride the Tram free of charge with a paying parent from noon to 4 p.m.). Cost: $4, free ages 0-17
*Cliff Notes Midsummer Night’s Dream in Washington Park – Portland; 7/20; 2:00pm; “We cordially invite you to come out and see our show…pack a picnic, bring a friend. We can all laugh together in the end,” says the Shakespeare Liberation Army. A special theatre performance of “Over the Cliff Notes on A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” a performance-based educational project exploring and revealing the poet’s artistic significance and merits… sort of. Combining the text with serious and humorous running commentary, the play is adapted and condensed into a one-hour version which captures the spirit while leaving the boring stuff behind.
*Hug a Tree (World Record) at Hoyt Arboretum – Portland; 7/20; 2:00pm; Break the world record for most people simultaneously hugging trees in one place at one time. Please consider public transportation to Hoyt. Due to strict rules from Guiness World Records,we would appreciate it if you’d pre-register for this event so our count is accurate. Portland Timbers mascot Timber Joey & Friends of Trees’ Garry Oak will be on hand to help hug and set the world record. All tree hug participants will receive a coupon for a complimentary beverage from one of several participating local breweries. All proceeds will support Hoyt Arboretum. And the day isn’t just about hugs; we’ll have fun activities and tree information on site for adults and kids. Near intersection of Kingston and Knights.
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 7/20; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*OMSI Star Party; 7/20; 9:30pm; Lunar viewing at Rooster Rock State Park and L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, weather permitting. From beginners to experts of all ages, here’s your opportunity to view the stars and other celestial objects u