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!
Whose Line-Style Comedy Live at Jet City Improv (Seattle; 8/9 – 9/6; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
ComedySportz: Fast and Funny Improv Comedy Competition (Seattle; 8/9 – 8/31 Fridays & Saturdays; tickets start at $6 plus service fee)
Steel Magnolias: Humor and Heartbreak in ’80s Louisiana (Portland; 8/17 – 9/1 weekends; tickets start at $14 plus service fee)
Seattle Public Market Tour: See the Iconic Pike Place (Seattle; 8/17 – 8/22; tickets starting at $8.43 plus service fee)
The Monkees in Concert, With Film & Photos of Their 30-Year Career (Portland; 8/18; tickets start at $9.75 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, August 16th :
*Flute Quest – Des Moines; 8/16; 9:00am – 5:00pm; The largest Native American flute festival in the Northwest. Listen to live performances, participate in the flute and drum circles or learn to play the flute in workshops offered by accomplished musicians.
*Kruckeberg Garden Tots – Shoreline; 8/16; 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. $7 family, free for members.
*Paint Me a Story - Bellevue; 8/16; 10:00am – 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; 8/16; 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; 8/9 & 8/14: 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; 8/16; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Frye Museum entrance and parking are free all the time. You can check their events page here, for a list of weekly events.
*Pay-What-You-Can at Seattle Symphony’s “Soundbridge”- Seattle, Beneroya Hall; 8/16; 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.
*City of Shoreline Skate Competition – Shoreline; 8/16; 12:00pm – 5:00pm; It’s sk8 comp time again so bring your deck and show us what ya got. Great competition, phenomenal prizes, good eats and all for FREE!
*Bonney Lake Days – Bonney Lake; 8/16 – 8/17; Live entertainment, vendors, fireworks (Aug. 16), parade (9:30 a.m. Aug. 17), skate competition (10 a.m. Aug. 17), car show (Aug. 17), kids’ zone and more. 4 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 17. FREE.
*Summer Bash – Tacoma; 8/16; 5:00pm; Enjoy family activities, food and entertainment starting at 5 p.m., and an outdoor movie The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (PG) at dusk. Bring blankets and chairs. Bring blankets and chairs.
*Family and Music Festival – Seattle; 8/16; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; Celebrate summer with live music, pinatas, games, food and more. FREE
*Twirl Café Movie Night Social – Seattle; 8/16; 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.
*75th Annual Snoqualmie Railroad Days – Snoquialmie; 8/16 – 8/18; Train rides (fee), food and vendor booths, children’s area with entertainment, LEGO train layout and build area, parade (11 a.m. Aug. 17), hands-on art, car show (Aug. 18), model train show and more. 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 18. FREE, fee for some activities.
*Chief Seattle Days – Suquamish; 8/16 – 8/18; Includes a memorial service for Chief Seattle, native canoe races, salmon bake, 5K run/walk (10 a.m. Sun.), pow wow, parade (11 a.m. Sat.), craft and food vendors, and a royalty pageant. Shuttle available at Clearwater Casino. 5 to 11 p.m. Aug. 16, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 18.
*FREE Friday Night Live at Imagine Children’s Museum – Everett; 8/16; 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.
*Twinderella: The Musical – Gig Harbor; 8/16 – 8/18; 6:00pm; PenMet Family Theater outdoor play for all ages. 6 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Aug. 2-18. $5.
*Tales from the Woods: Book III, the Enchanted Woods – Everett; 8/16; 6:30pm; Enjoy family-friendly live theater presented by the Everett Community College drama department. Live actors and puppets will tell an alternate tale of Snow White, the Ugly Duckling and Sleeping Beauty, and how they came together to fight a common enemy. In doing so, they learn about their own origins. Bring a blanket and a picnic. In case of rain at outdoor locations, play will be held at Room 120 in Baker Hall at Everett Community College. Donations welcome.
*Backyard Bard: Twelfth Night & Merry Wives of Windsor – various Puget Sound Locations; 8/16 – 8/18; An outdoor, all ages, four-actor, 45-minute production. FREE, donations accepted.
*Shakespeare in the Park: Midsummer’s Night Dream & King Lear – various Puget Sound Locations; 8/16 – 8/17; GreenStage is excited to invite you to join us in the parks this summer for our 25th Anniversary Season! So grab your blanket and picnic basket and join us for two of Shakespeare’s finest plays. As always, admission to every performance is free, and donations are joyfully accepted and greatly appreciated.
*You Can’t Take it With You – Seattle; 8/16 – 8/17, 7:00pm, 8/17, 2:00pm; Seattle Public Theater’s Youth Program presents this classic comedy about an eccentric family and some of life’s biggest questions. 7 p.m. Aug. 9-10 and 16-17, 2 p.m. Aug. 11 and 17. FREE, donations accepted.
*Snow White and the Seven Dwarves – Gig Harbor; 8/16 – 8/18; 7:00pm; PenMet Family Theater outdoor play for all ages. 7 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Aug. 2-18. $5.
*Renton Outdoor Movie – Renton; 8/16; Bring blankets or low-back chairs and watch Hotel Transylvania (PG). Seating begins at 7 p.m., family entertainment at 7:45 p.m., and the movie at dusk. May be canceled by weather; call ahead.
*Summer Sounds & Cinema – Auburn; 8/16; “Puss in Boots” (PG). Food concessions available. Concert 7 p.m., movie at dusk.
*Cinema Under the Stars – Everett; 8/16; 7:30pm; Family entertainment (7:30 p.m.) and movie (dusk). Bring blankets and chairs. Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) Aug. 16.
*Family Summer Outdoor Cinema Series – Tukwila; 8/16 – 8/23 Fridays; 8:00pm; Hotel Transylvania (PG) Aug. 16, Rise of the Guardians (PG) Aug. 23. Bring a blanket or chairs. Concessions available. 8 p.m., movie at dusk. FREE, suggested donation of two non-perishable items per person.
*Movies Under the Stars at Swedish/Edmonds – Edmonds; 8/16; 8:00pm; Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (PG) Aug. 16. Free popcorn and lemonade. Seating on site for first 200 guests, can also bring blankets. Dusk.
*Movies at the Marina – Seattle; 8/16; 8:45pm; Escape from Planet Earth (PG) Aug. 16, Dolphin Tale (PG) Aug. 23. Bring blankets or chairs.
Saturday, August 17th :
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 8/17 & 8/21; 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.
*Children’s PlayGarden Art Dedication – Seattle; 8/17; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Meet world-renowned artist Trimpin and celebrate the installation of his new sound sculpture for the garden, Bongobenny Quintet: A Musical Fence. Then, enjoy ice cream, crafts, playing with the water feature and visiting farm animals.
*Neely-Soames Historic Homestead Open House – Kent; 8/17; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Once a year the public is invited to tour one of the oldest homes in Kent, built in 1885.
*Best of the Northwest Summer Community Festival – Tacoma; 8/17; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Enjoy an array of art experiences. Create a flower rose to help welcome home troops, watch the Iron Artist Competition, and help us get artsy with a community art installation. Museum admission and activities free all day.
*Skykomish Mini-Train Ride – Skykomish; 8/17 & 8/18; 10:00am – 4:00pm; The Great Northern & Cascade Railway will offer free rides on a mini train to the public as well as a railroad education program. Parking lot is on the left after crossing railroad tracks. FREE, donations welcome.
*Viking Days – Seattle; 8/17 – 8/18; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Grounds of Nordic Heritage Museum are transformed into a Viking marketplace with Swedish pancake breakfast (9 a.m. to noon), Scandinavian entertainment, food, salmon dinner (5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 18), arts and crafts vendors, and Viking demonstrations. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 17-18.
*Fresh Paint – Everett; 8/17 – 8/18; 10:00am – 5:00pm; A full day of art-inspired activities including artists demonstrating and selling their art, hands-on art activities, food and music. Visit Jetty Island to hunt for a glass float; return it to the festival for a certificate of authenticity (10:30 a.m. Aug. 17, ferry reservations recommended). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 17-18.
*In the Spirit: Northwest Native Arts Market and Festival – Tacoma; 8/17; 10:00am – 6:00pm; Enjoy a day of dancing, drumming, singing, and shopping with a diverse group of Native American artists. Both inside the museum and out on the plaza, vendors will be selling exquisite artwork in all price ranges. Round out your festival experience by catching performances of Native American singers, musicians, and dance groups throughout the day. The museum and all outdoor festival activities are FREE today.
*Indigenous Cultures Day – Seattle; 8/17; 10:00am – 7:00pm; Explore a variety of indigenous cultures through dance, music, art, film, food, children’s activities and more.
*Free Wing Luke Museum Entrance – Seattle; 8/17; 10:00am – 8:00pm; The Wing Luke Museum offers free admission on the third Saturday of each month, for family day.
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 8/17 – 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.
*Delridge Day – Seattle; 8/17; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Live music, food, inflatables, face painting, games and skate competition.
*Rainier Valley Seattle Summer Streets – Seattle; 8/17; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Rainier Valley Heritage Parade (11 a.m.), food, art making and activities for all ages when Rainier Avenue S. is closed to traffic from S. Brandon Street to Alaska Street.
*CamOcean Day – Camano Island; 8/17; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Learn about healthy waters and oceans in a day of family fun. Salmon Fun Run, Maritime Music Festival, interactive events for all ages, storytelling, beach walks with WSU Beach Watchers and more. Craft an item out of recycled materials, have fun and help the marine environment. Discover Pass required for parking.
*Geocaching Block Party and International Film Festival – Seattle; 8/17; 11:00am – 6:00pm; Discover the hobby that guides you to little-known locations just around the corner, reveals hidden history and powers you to go outside to explore. The Geocaching Block Party is a FREE celebration of the adventurer in all of us. Join more than 1,000 people from across the globe for a family-friendly day of discovery around Fremont, fab food truck eats and even a Geocaching International Film Festival in the park at dusk.
*Central Area Community Festival – Seattle; 8/17; 11:00am – 7:00pm; Arts and crafts, food, entertainment and more.
*Vintage Plane Fly Day – Everett; 8/17; 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. FREE
*Duwamish River Festival – Seattle; 8/17; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Music, food, information booths, kids’ activities and more.
*Green Hour - Bellevue; 8/17; 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; 8/17; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*Kidgits Back to School – Seattle; 8/17; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Get ready to take on the new school year at the Kidgits Back to School event. Summer might be ending soon, but the fun is just beginning! Join us as we say farewell to summer and hello to another great school year with fun activities in the Ben Bridge Court. Sign up for a year-long Kidgits membership for only $5 at Guest Services, or online at www.simon.com/kidgits/signup/KidgitQuickReg.aspx to enjoy all the perks of being a Kidgit.
*Living History Day – Auburn; 8/17; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Explore turn-of-the-century farm life with artisan, craft and farming demonstrations throughout the day.
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 8/17; 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; 8/17; 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.
*Capture the Flag – Everett; 8/17; 3:00pm; Play the classic game in a family-friendly, all-ages way. 3 p.m., 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.
*Drive-In Movie Night - Tacoma; 8/17; 4;30pm; Watch The Love Bug (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.
*West Seattle Outdoor Movies – Seattle; 8/17; 6:00pm; Bring blankets and chairs. Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (PG) Aug. 17. 6 p.m., movies start at dusk. FREE
*Cultural Dance Series – Bellevue; 8/17; 7:00pm; The third Saturday of each month through October, families are invited to watch dance demonstrations from different cultures and even learn (and try) some dance steps themselves.
*Moonlight Beach Adventure – Edmonds; 8/17; 7:30pm – 9:30pm; Spend a memorable evening at Marina Beach. Enjoy an interpretive program, and see and touch live creatures brought to shore by volunteer scuba divers. Dress warmly; bring a flashlight.
*MOHAI Movies in the Park – Seattle; 8/17 – 8/24 Saturdays; 8:00pm; Outdoor movies featuring Seattle or the Northwest. Say Anything (PG-13) Aug. 17, War Games (PG) Aug. 24. Bring blankets or chairs. Movie at dusk. FREE.
*Outdoor Summer Movie Series – Redmond; 8/17 – 8/24 Saturdays; 8:00pm; Hairspray (PG) Aug. 10, Rise of the Guardians (PG) Aug. 17, Ghostbusters (PG) Aug. 24. Bring blankets and chairs. Movies at dusk.
*Seattle Asian American Film Festival Summer Series – Seattle; 8/17 – 8/24 Saturdays; 8:00pm; Outdoor movies at Hing Hay Park begin at sunset and are canceled in case of rain. Mulan (G) Aug. 17, Jake Shimabukuro: Life on Four Strings (NR) Aug. 24.
*Movies at the Mural – Seattle; 8/17 & 8/24; 9:00pm; The Help (PG-13) Aug. 17, Les Misérables (PG-13) Aug. 24. Bring low-back chairs or blankets. No pets. Movie begins at dusk.
*Popcorn in the Parks – Marysville; 8/17; 9:00pm; The Great and Powerful Oz (PG) Aug. 17. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic (popcorn provided). Dusk (approx. 9 p.m.). FREE
Sunday, August 18th:
*Sandcastle Contest – Shoreline; 8/18; 12:00pm – 3:00pm; Prizes, live music and free BBQ. Open to all ages. Part of Celebrate Shoreline.
*Othello Park International Music & Art Festival – Seattle; 8/18; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; Music, drama and dance performances, hands-on art projects, animals, ve ndors, food and more.
*BrasilFest – Seattle; 8/18; 12:00pm – 8:00pm; Music, dance, workshops, drumming, parade, giant puppets, food, exhibits, traditional costumes and more. FREE
*Adventure Playground – Mercer Island; 8/18, 8/20, & 8/22; 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; 8/18; 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
*Mercer Slough Ranger Program: Animal House – Bellevue; 8/18; 2:00pm; Animals at the Mercer Slough Nature Park make all kinds of homes. From the hummingbird to the beaver, they’re all master builders! Pre-registration is not required.
*Family Karaoke – Kirkland; 8/18; 2:00pm – 6:00pm; Join us for an all-ages karaoke party ideal for families with kids ages 8 to 16. Wayne Bowdle of Kamikaze Karaoke will be hosting. No cover charge.
Monday, August 19th:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 8/19; 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; 8/19 – 8/26 Mondays & Tuesdays; 6:30pm – 7:30pm; FREE
Aug 19 – Reptile Man
Aug 20 – Last Leaf Theatre
Aug 26 – touch-a-truck
Aug 27 – touch-a-truck
Tuesday, August 20th:
*Children’s Concert Series – Kirkland; 8/6 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 10:00am; FREE; Aug 20 – The Brian Waite Band
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 8/20; 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.
*Hazel Miller Plaza Concerts – Edmonds; 8/20– 8/27 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Magic by Jeff Evans Aug. 20, Toy Box Trio Aug. 27. FREE.
*Kids First! Concert Series – Sammamish; 8/20; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Weekly concerts for kids at a variety of locations in Sammamish.
*Noon Tunes – Puyallup; 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Manimou Camara & Denbaya Aug. 13, Bubbles & Fog Aug. 20.
*Thumbelina by Oregon Shadow Theatre – Seattle; 8/18; 6:30pm; Oregon Shadow Theatre presents the tale of Thumbelina.
*Summer Movies in the Park – Bellevue; 8/20 – 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. Chasing Mavericks (PG) Aug. 13, Won’t Back Down (PG) Aug. 20. FREE
Wednesday, August 21st:
*Knee-High Naturalists – North Bend; 8/21; 9:45am – 10:45am; Take a stroll with a naturalist in the protected Cedar River watershed. Ages 18 to 36 months with adult. $5 per tot, free adults and ages 1 and younger, limit 2 children per adult.
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 8/21; 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; 8/21; 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; 8/21; 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.
*Kids Showtime Summer Series – Seattle; 8/21; 11:00am; Bubbleman Aug. 21. 11 a.m. $5 family of four, $2 each additional person. Shows are outdoors, weather permitting.
*Peanut Butter and Jam Concerts – Tukwila; 8/21; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; The Not-Its! Aug. 21, Caspar Babypants Aug. 28. Bring a picnic and blankets.
*Kids SummerStage – Auburn; 8/21 – 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.
Aug 21 – Sing Along Fun with Nancy Stewart
Aug. 28 – Johnny Bregar
*Inflatable Fun – Bellevue; 8/21 – 8/28 Wednesdays; 12:00pm – 7:00pm; Kids can come bounce on a variety of inflatables. Ages 3 and older, must be accompanied by an adult. $1 to $2 per activity. Wednesdays, Aug. 7-28.
*Bingo & Big Bouncec – Seattle; 8/21; 12:30pm – 2:00pm; Kids can come play bingo with prizes, play on bouncy houses and enjoy a root beer float. Best for ages 5 to 10. $3.
*Open Play & Music Class – Redmond; 8/21; 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; 8/21 – 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. Jurassic Park (PG-13) Aug. 21, The Goonies (PG) Aug. 28.
*Movies in the Park – Mukilteo; 8/21; 8:30pm; Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends and enjoy a family movie on a gigantic 20-foot inflatable movie screen. Refreshments will be available for purchase. This event may be cancelled due to high winds/rain. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed. Only low-back chairs allowed. No pets please, service animals only.
Thursday, August 22nd :
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 8/22; 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
*Children’s Concerts – Everett; 8/22; 10:00am; The Brian Waite Band Aug. 22. FREE
*Tot Trek: Green Lake Turtle Hunt – Seattle; 8/22; 10:30am – 11:45am; Share nature with a child at Green Lake. Trek with a naturalist in search of turtles and other wildlife. Learn some tips and tricks for exploring nature with toddlers. Please meet at the southwest section of Green Lake just outside the restrooms located next to the aqua theater. $8 adult/child pair, $4 each additional person. Pre-register.
*Tugboat Storytime – Seattle; 8/22; 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 Aug. 8 and 22. Not intended for preschool groups. FREE
*Seattle Presents: Brothers from Another – Seattle; 8/22; 12:00pm – 1:30pm; Brothers from Another represent the face of the next generation of Seattle hip-hop, combining the easygoing flavor of the mid ‘90s with a new-school attitude in their lyrics. Comprised of lyricists Tiglo and Cole, BFA have made their way through the Seattle rap scene from the basement studio of their high school to collaborating with Blue Scholars, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis and more. 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; 8/22; 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*Summer Life – Seattle; 8/22 – 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; 8/22 – 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
*Outdoor Movies at Magnuson Park – Seattle; 8/22 – 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. $5. Singles (PG-13) Aug. 22, The Princess Bride (PG) Aug. 29.
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, August 16th :
*Ladybug Nature Walk: Irving Park – Portland; 8/16; 10:00am – 11:00am; Naturalist led stroll. Ages 2-5, with grown-up. Stroller-accessible. Cost: $4 per child
*Clackamas County Fair – Canby; 8/16 – 8/17; 11:00am; A classic county fair filled with amazing BBQ, a rodeo, rides, and entertainment for the whole family.
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 8/16; 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; 8/16; 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; 8/16 – 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; 8/16; 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
*Professor Banjo at Ford Food and Drink – Portland; 8/16; 5:00pm – 7:00pm; Paul Silveria, best known as a square dance caller and children’s musician, plays a rare set for both adults and kids. Plenty of Paul’s trademark “Professor Banjo” songs will be in the mix to entertain the kids at this all ages performance, but Paul will also be showcasing a few instrumentals and traditional songs with slightly more mature themes (don’t worry parents, this show is still “family friendly!”). Enjoy the dinner/cocktail hour with some engaging old-time banjo music.
*Let’s Go Birding – Gervais; 8/16; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; 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.
*Free Friday Night Movie in Esther Short Park: Rear Window – Vancouver; 8/16; 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
*Friday Family Flicks at Hillsboro Library – Hillsboro; 8/16; 6:30pm – 8:00pm; See free, family-friendly movies on the big screen with popcorn provided by Regal Cinema’s Movies on TV Highway. Children must be supervised by a responsible adult. Seating is limited. August’s movie is The Croods, rated PG, 98 minutes.
Saturday, August 17th :
*Multnomah Days - Portland; 8/17; 8:00am – 4:00pm; Multnomah Days attendees will also enjoy live music on 2 stages, a wine and beer garden for adults, and over 100 vendors showcasing art, food, crafts and other unique merchandise. Expanded Kid Zone at the Multnomah Art Center, will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is a short-but-spirited parade down SW Capitol Hwy. There is also a “Pooch Parade” of dogs that precedes the regular two-legged event. The ‘biggest little’ parade kicks off at 10 a.m.
*Kids Cook Classes at Portland Farmers Market – Portland; 8/17; 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
*Music Together at Bethany Meadows Park – Portland; 8/17; 10:00am – 11:00am; You are invited to join us for a musical fun on 8/17 (Sat) 10am at Pirate Ship Park. Bring your picnic mat and snack, we will make music together as a community, singing and dancing with our kids and of course, the kids always have a great time playing on the “Pirate Ship.” FREE
*Kids Cook Classes at Portland Farmers Market – Portland; 8/10; 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 – See more at: http://www.thriftynorthwestmom.com/fun-frugal-family-events-89-815/#sthash.5ar1kHyV.dpuf
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 8/17; 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.
*Sing-A-Long with Miss Sara at Child’s Play – Portland; 8/17; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Celebrate the release of the new kids album “Born Curious” by Sara Dee! Come early to make crafts to help you sing-a-long! Crafts at 10 am. Music at 11 am. FREE
*Children’s Market at Steamers & Screamers – Vancouver; 8/17; 10:00am – 1:00pm; This event will teach kids about business: how to design and market a product as well as sell to customers. As always, friends and customers are free to roam the state-of-the-art playspace Young kids can play, while older kids can sell. There will be multiple kids’ booths to shop. Children will set their own prices for their products.
*FACT Family Network Family Play Day at Harper’s Playground NoPo – Portland; 8/17; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Come play at this amazing all accessible playground as we celebrate community, inclusion, and play! We will have fun activities for families including face painting, Burgerville food cart, bubbles and balloons, sports opportunities for anyone, local resource vendors and live music from Mr. Ben and Nate Botsford. FREE
*Seaport Celebration at N. Lombard Waterfront – Portland; 8/17; 10:00am – 4:00pm; Seaport Celebration will take you inside the fences of an active marine terminal to explore the working waterfront with activities and excitement for all ages. Live music and entertainment, interactive displays and demonstrations, face painting, a photo booth with costumes, free giveaways and prizes, $5 jet boat rides, Container Art, and much more. New this year is the fun and exciting Kid Creations Chef Competition.
*Ruckus in the Lobby at Artists Rep Theatre – Portland; 8/17; 10:30am – 11:15am; Traveling Lantern Theatre Company presents “Ruckus in the Lobby”. A series of plays for children, in the lobby at Artists Rep. All performances are interactive and geared for the K-6th grade age group and their families. The shows include a Q&A with the cast following the performance. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at: www.artistsrep.org. Cost: $5
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland; 8/17; 10:30am to 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Museum Family Saturday at the Maritime Museum – Portland; 8/17; 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.
*Get to Know the Tram – Portland; 8/17; 12:00pm – 3:00pm; Party for the Portland Aeriel Tram. Face painting, certamic tile painting, balloon artist, more. Photography seminar at 12:30 for teens and adults. Kids ride tram free with paid adult.
*Oregon Pacific Railroad Train Rides – Portland; 8/17; 12:00pm – 6:00pm; The Oregon Pacific Railroad is continuing to offer passenger train rides on Saturdays between Oaks Amusement Park and East Portland (near OMSI) and back. Round trip rides last approximately an hour and take guests along the Willamette River, through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Cost: $5 round trip or $10 to ride in the cab of our locomotive, limited space available for locomotive cab rides. We’re the only full size passenger excursion train in the Portland area. See our website for scheduling info and more details.
*Doc McStuffins Toy Clinic at Westfield Mall – Vancouver; 8/17; 1:00pm – 2:30pm; Join Radio Disney for the Doc McStuffins Toy Clinic. The Radio Disney Junior Road Crew will be rockin’ the place with all the best Disney Junior tunes, games, and prizes. Bring your favorite stuffed animal or toy for a check-up and the Radio Disney Junior honorary docs will check their heartbeat, reflexes, and more. Don’t miss the fun. *The Doc McStuffins character will not be present at this event.
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 8/17; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*Movie at Steamers & Screamers – Portland; 8/17; 5:00pm; Enjoy a movie every Saturday night. FREE
*Let’s Go Hiking at Silver Falls – Sublimity; 8/17; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Oregon State Parks boasts miles of hiking trails. Hiking is an easy sport to begin and is the perfect way for you and your family to go outside and get some exercise together. What better way to experience some of Oregon’s most beautiful scenery! Experience the accomplishment and exhilaration that can only come from a day spent on a great trail. You’ll learn tips and tricks for when and where to go, what to expect and how to make the most of your hiking adventure. Be sure to wear hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any other necessary personal items. Ages 8 years old and above welcome (children 8-14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian).
Sunday, August 18th:
*Woodstock Farmer’s Market Kids Day – Portland; 8/18; 10:00am – 2:00pm; August 18th, is the third annual Kids’ Day at the Woodstock Farmers Market. There will be a cooking demonstration, live kids’ music, face painting, a rock wall, clay sculpting, balloon twister Olive Rootbeer, alpacas, Mr. Lizard’s Reptile Show, crafts with Little Wing of Portland, an outdoor play space for little ones with Southside Swap n Play and more! FREE
*Sunday Streets Alive – Downtown Vancouver; 8/18; 11:00am – 4:00pm; This event closes down a specific route to traffic and allows the community to use the space to walk, bike, skate, run, play games, and more. Enjoy the community and develop opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and fun! FREE
*Hawthorne Street Fair – Portland; 8/18; 11:00am – 7:00pm; Special kiddo activities, music and more. FREE
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 8/18; 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; 8/18; 1:00pm-2:15pm; This program integrates nature exploration, art, literature, music, movement, and outdoor play. It is geared toward families with young children (preferably ages 2-6 but all are welcome.) For more specific information, call (503) 636-9886 ext. 225. FREE.
*Kids Karaoke at Pink Feather Restaurant and Lodge – Portland; 8/18; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; The Pink Feather Restaurant and Lounge is now hosting the Emma Rose Kids’ Karaoke Hour every other Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Emma Rose, nine years old, is an extraordinarily talented singer herself and will be emceeing the event. Kids Menu, as well as Happy Hour appetizer prices for parents, available for the full three hours.
*Alpenrose’s Dairyville – Portland; 8/18; 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.
*Kids Garden Club – Learn About Shade Trees at 7Ds – Lake Oswego; 8/18; 2:00pm – 3:00pm; Trees provide many benefits to us and the environment; we will talk about the many ways that trees contribute to better quality of life. Our group will collect tree leaf samples from a walk through the nursery, identify which trees the leaves came from, and laminate a leaf collage to take home. Cost: $5
*Portland Festival Symphony at Peninsula Park – Portland; 8/18; 6:00pm; Classical music rocks the park. FREE
Monday, August 19th :
*Music Class with Johnny Keener at The Treehouse – Portland; 8/19; 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
*Sing-a-Long at Frog Pond Toys – Lake Oswego; 8/19; 10:00am – 11:00am; Enjoy this biweekly sing-along with Amy. Bring the kids and join in for music, singing, games, and fun. FREE
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Laurelhurst Cafe – Portland; 8/19; 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; 8/19; 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; 8/19; 10:00am – 4:30pm; Admission is free to this museum every Monday.
*Mondays On The Mall – Portland – Downtown Central Transit Mall; 8/19; Various Times; Free events all day including Wii play, caricatures, the original photo booth and entertainment.
Tuesday, August 20th :
*$1 Movies at Area Regal Movie Theaters; 8/13 & 8/14; 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; 8/20; 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; 8/20; 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.
*Storytime at Green Bean Books – Portland; 8/20; 11:00am &