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!
Greater Tuna, the Off-Broadway Comedy Sensation (Portland; 8/2 – 8/11 weekends; tickets start at $16 plus service fee)
Little Women: The Broadway Musical From SecondStory Repertory (Seattle; 8/2 – 8/4 weekends; tickets start at $13.50 plus service fee)
Whose Line-Style Comedy Live at Jet City Improv (Seattle; 8/2 – 9/6; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
ChiChi!!: A Roaring ’20s Spectacular With the Can-Can Castaways (Seattle; 8/2; tickets start at $15 plus service fee)
Portland’s Own The Backyard Blues Boys at the Alberta Rose (Portland; 8/2; tickets start at $6 plus service fee)
Rose City Voodoo’s Summer Island Jam I & II — Music From Haiti to Hawaii (Portland; 8/3; tickets start at FREE plus service fee)
Rat City Rollergirls: All-Female Roller Derby Action at Key Arena (Seattle; 8/10; tickets start at $7.50 plus service fee)
Steel Magnolias: Humor and Heartbreak in ’80s Louisiana (Portland; 8/17 – 9/1 weekends; tickets start at $14 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 2nd :
*Seafair Weekend – Seattle; 8/2 – 8/4; Hydroplane races on Lake Washington, south of the I-90 Bridge. Air Show features the Patriots Jet Team performing, and includes other flight demonstrations. The south beach area will host a wakeboarding demonstration. Shore activities at Genesee Park (3800 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle) and along Lake Washington Boulevard include entertainment, food and more. Tickets for special seating available online. 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 2-3, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 4. Parking very limited. 206-728-0123.
*Kruckeberg Garden Tots – Shoreline; 8/2; 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.
*Thurston County Fair – Lacey; 8/2 – 8/3; opens 10:00am; Music, home arts demonstrations, 4-H and FFA events, carnival rides and food. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 31 through Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 4. Cost: $7, $6 seniors, $5 ages 6 to 14, free ages 5 and younger, $20 family.
*UmojaFest African American Heritage Festival – Seattle; 8/2; 10:00am – 9:00pm; Children’s area, parade (1 p.m. Aug. 3), entertainment, music, basketball tournament (Aug. 3), vendors and more. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 2-3.
*Musical Story Time with Brian Vogan and Spot – Seattle; 8/2; 10:30am – 11:15am; Join us for songs, a story and a special giftbag for our Kidgits members. You also won’t want to miss the special guest appearance by Spot. Storytime starts at 10:30 a.m. at the Ben Bridge Court located at the north end. Not a Kidgits member here? Sign up at the event at Guest Services, or at this link: https://www.simon.com/kidgits/signup/signup.aspx
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 8/2 & 8/7: 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.
*Story Time at Lewis Creek – Bellevue; 8/2; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Look, listen and create during an hour of stories and crafts with a park ranger on the first Friday of every month. Parents and children will explore together the diverse natural world with animated fiction and fun. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration is required by calling 425-452-6885 . Cost: $2.50 to $3 per person.
*FreeTête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 8/2; 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.
On the first Friday of the month Children’s stories are brought to life with movement and play in the Frye Art Museum galleries by Frye educators or librarians from The Seattle Public Library. Visit the galleries after story time. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. Both museum entrance and story time are free
*Free Entrance To Bellevue Art Museum – Bellevue; 8/2; 11:00am – 8:00pm. First Friday of the month Bellevue Art Museum offers free admission.
*Magnolia Summerfest – Seattle; 8/2 & 8/3; Entertainment, children’s entertainment, craft and food booths and kids parade (10:30 a.m. Aug. 3) followed by the main parade. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 3.
*KIDSTAGE Entertainment – Everett; 8/2 – 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; 8/2; 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.
*Lake City Pioneer Days – Seattle; 8/2 & 8/3; Salmon bake (noon to 6 p.m. Aug. 2-3), street fair (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 3), kids’ parade (6 p.m. Aug. 3) and grand parade (7 p.m. Aug. 3), vintage car show (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 3), kids’ activities and more. Noon to 6 p.m. Aug. 2, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 3.
*Twirl Café Movie Night Social – Seattle; 8/2; 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.
*Author Appearance: Sally Jo Martine – Bremerton; 8/2; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; Meet local author and artist Sally Jo Martine who will sign her new book “Monkey Tales.” See her collection of handmade sock monkey art, plus tour the puppet museum.
* Half Off Admission To KidsQuest Children’s Musuem – Factoria; 8/2; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; First Friday evening of the month offers free admission.
*Free Entrance to the Hands-on Children’s Museum – Olympia; 8/2; 5:00pm – 9:00pm; First Friday has free entrance in the evenings. The new museum gets pretty packed (we had to wait a little while last time to get in), but it’s worth it!
*Twinderella: The Musical – Gig Harbor; 8/2 – 8/18 weekends; 6:00pm; PenMet Family Theater outdoor play for all ages. 6 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Aug. 2-18. $5.
*Columbia City BeatWalk – Columbia City /Seattle; 8/2; 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.
*Backyard Bard: Twelfth Night & Merry Wives of Windsor – various Puget Sound Locations; 8/2 – 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; 8/2 – 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.
*Renton Outdoor Movie – Renton; 8/2; 7:00pm; Bring blankets or low-back chairs and watch How to Train Your Dragon (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; 8/2; 7:00pm; “The Lorax” (PG). Food concessions available. Concert 7 p.m., movie at dusk.
*The Government Inspector - Seattle; 8/2 – 8/4; Seattle Public Theater’s Youth Program presents an adaptation of the classic mistaken-identity comedy first produced in 1836 7 p.m. Aug. 2-3, 2 p.m. Aug. 3-4. FREE, donations accepted.
*Cinema Under the Stars – Everett; 8/2 – 8/16 Fridays; 7:30pm; Family entertainment (7:30 p.m.) and movie (dusk). Bring blankets and chairs. Big Miracle (PG) Aug. 2, The Amazing Superman (PG-13) Aug. 9, Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) Aug. 16.
*Bats at Twilight – Bellevue; 8/2; 7:30pm – 9:30pm; Bats Northwest will dispel myths and discern the facts as we learn about the bats that live in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Discover bats and the important role they play in nature and the food chain. Afterward we will walk the grounds with a Bat Locator to see and hear the resident bats at work. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Ages 6 and older. Suggested donation of $1, $5 family.
*Family Summer Outdoor Cinema Series – Tukwila; 8/2 – 8/23 Fridays; 8:00pm; The Lorax (PG) Aug. 2, Madagascar 3 (PG) Aug. 9, 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.
*CinemaGig Outdoor Movies – Gig Harbor; 8/2 – 8/16 select days; 8:30pm; Gig Harbor’s outdoor summer theater for families. Bring low chairs and a blanket. Cancelled in cases of rain or high wind. The Lorax (PG) 8:30 p.m. Aug. 2, Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest (G) 8:30 p.m. Aug. 3, Casablanca (PG) 8:15 p.m. Aug. 16, The Sound of Music (G) 8:15 p.m. Aug. 17. FREE.
*Edmonds Outdoor Movie – Edmonds; 8/2; 9:00pm; Bring your blanket or lawn chair. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Back to the Future (PG) Aug. 2. The movie begins at dusk (around 9 p.m.).
Saturday, August 3rd :
*Bike Helmet Awareness Day – Seattle; 8/3; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Roxbury Spine & Wellness Clinic will be giving away free bicycle helmets to the first 100 kids ages 11 and younger, and will be providing fittings to every child who brings his or her own helmet. Health and body fat screenings as well as creation of fingerprint identification cards for parents will be available and performed free of charge by Dr. Lawrence Clayman and his staff. Come hungry because we will be having a full BBQ for everyone to enjoy! We will also have a castle bounce house and face painting for the kids, as well as a variety of kid-friendly local businesses in attendance as well.
*Beach Exploration – Olympia; 8/3; 10:00am – 1:00pm; Learn about the critters that live on the beach from a beach naturalist from South Sound Estuary Association.
*Make Some Noise! Ring Open House – Seattle; 8/3; 10:00am – 3:00pm; Seattle Opera kicks off the Ring with family-friendly music and sound exploration, a performance by Lelavison, plus the Our Earth opera trilogy with Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra. Backstage tours of McCaw Hall are $5.
*Proctor Arts Fest – Proctor; 8/3; 10:00am – 6:00pm; Arts and crafts vendors, Bite of Proctor, kids’ area, entertainment and more.
*Waterfront Art Festival – Mukilteo; 8/3; 10:00am – 7:00pm; Children’s creative art and play activities, live music, food and beautiful original arts and crafts created by artists from the Puget Sound region.
*Free Family Days At Seattle Asian Art Museum – Seattle; 8/3; 11:00am – 2:00pm; Admission to the Seattle Asian Art Museum is free on the first Saturday of each month for families.
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 8/3 – 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.
*Family Bird Walk – Seattle; 8/3; 1:00pm – 2:30pm; Spend time outdoors as a family and share the joy of learning about nature with your loved ones. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal Seward Park bird watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. This walk is especially designed for families with children ages 5 to 10. FREE
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 8/3; 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; 8/3; 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.
*Story time at Cabelas – Lacey; 8/3; Outdoors stories for kids 4-9 and parents of grandparents In the walled tent area; first Saturday of every month.
*Bellevue Art Museums Get Crafty Saturday – Bellevue; 8/3; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*The Totally True & Almost Accurate Adventures of Pinocchio – Burie; 8/3 & 8/4; 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
*West Seattle Outdoor Movies – Seattle; 8/3 – 8/17; 6:00pm; Bring blankets and chairs. The Muppets (PG) and community barbecue Aug. 3, The Avengers (PG-13) Aug. 10, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (PG) Aug. 17. 6 p.m., movies start at dusk. FREE
*Movies in the Park - Puyallup; 8/3; 7:00pm; Little Big League (PG). Bring blankets or chairs. Concessions available. Pre-show activities start at 7 p.m., movie starts at dusk.
*Music & Movies – Lacey; 8/3 & 8/10 Saturdays; 7:00pm; Concert (7 p.m.) and movie (dusk). Here Comes the Boom (PG) Aug. 3, Captain America (PG) Aug. 10. Bring food or purchase snacks. FREE
*Henry V – various Puget Sound locations; 8/3; 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.
*Sounds & Cinema – Puyallup; 8/3 & 8/24; 7:30pm; 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.
*MOHAI Movies in the Park – Seattle; 8/3 – 8/24 Saturdays; 8:00pm; Outdoor movies featuring Seattle or the Northwest. Singles (PG-13) Aug. 3, The Goonies (PG) Aug. 10, Say Anything (PG-13) Aug. 17, War Games (PG) Aug. 24. Bring blankets or chairs. Movie at dusk. FREE.
*Outdoor Summer Movie Series – Redmond; 8/3 – 8/24 Saturdays; 8:00pm; 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.
*Movies at the Mural – Seattle; 8/3 – 8/24; 9:00pm; Hugo (PG) Aug. 3, The Avengers (PG-13) Aug. 10, 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; 8/3 – 8/17 Saturdays; 9:00pm; 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, August 4th:
*Great Glasses Play Day – Seattle; 8/4; 10:00am – 12:00pm; This is the second annual Great Glasses Play Day, with events popping up across the country–including Seattle! Join us for playtime and celebration for our children in glasses, contacts or patches! This is a day to show how proud we are of our children in glasses, how thankful we are for better vision for our kids, but most of all, just to have fun and support one another.
*Shoreline Classic Car Show – Shoreline; 8/4; 10:00am – 3:00pm; Music, food, and hundreds of classic and unique cars on view at this Seafair event. Proceeds benefit Meridian Park Elementary.
*Adventure Playground – Mercer Island; 8/4, 8/6, & 8/8; 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; 8/4; 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
*Family Karaoke – Kirkland; 8/4; 2:00pm – 6:00pm; Kamikaze Karaoke is hosting a family-friendly karaoke event. All ages are welcome, but this event is especially for those ages 6 through 16. No cover charge.
Monday, August 5th:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 8/5; 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.
*Tales from the Woods: Book III, the Enchanted Woods – Everett; 8/5 & 8/8; 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.
*Kids Club Entertainment Series – Bonney Lake; 7/29 – 8/26 Mondays & Tuesdays; 6:30pm – 7:30pm; FREE
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
*I Dig Dinosaurs! A Nancy Stewart Concert – Shoreline; 8/5; 7:00pm; Take a musical journey to explore the lighter side of dinosaurs. From songs about digging for bones to dinosaurs driving cars, a roaring good time is guaranteed! Space is limited; first come, first seated.
Tuesday, August 6th:
*Children’s Concert Series – Kirkland; 8/6 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 10:00am; FREE
Aug 6 – Recess Monkey
Aug 13 – Johnny Bregar
Aug 20 – The Brian Waite Band
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 8/6; 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; 8/6; 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.
*Shoreline Noon Concert Series – Shoreline; 8/6 & 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.
Aug. 6: Panduo Steel Drums, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
Aug. 13: Recess Monkey, Hamlin Park
*Hazel Miller Plaza Concerts – Edmonds; 8/6– 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; 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; 8/6 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Weekly concerts for kids at a variety of locations in Sammamish.
*Noon Tunes – Puyallup; 8/6 – 8/20 Tuesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Reptile Man Aug. 6, Manimou Camara & Denbaya Aug. 13, Bubbles & Fog Aug. 20.
*Safe & Sound Sammamish – Sammamish; 8/6; 2:00pm – 5:00pm; Kick off National Night Out with magic by Louie Foxx, Radio Disney, and information on safety and crime prevention from Sammamish Police.
*Sports Fest – SeaTac; 8/6; 5:00pm -8:00pm; As part of National Night Out, this first-annual event lets kids ages 8 to 12 test their skills in basketball shooting, soccer, tennis and other sports.
*Children’s Entertainment Series – Lacey; 8/6 – 8/6 Tuesdays; 6:30pm; Aug 6 – Henrik Bothe
*Summer Movies in the Park – Bellevue; 8/6 – 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. Parental Guidance (PG) Aug. 6, Chasing Mavericks (PG) Aug. 13, Won’t Back Down (PG) Aug. 20. FREE
Wednesday, August 7th:
*Knee-High Naturalists – North Bend; 8/7; 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; 8/7; 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; 8/7 & 8/8; 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; 8/7; 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 SummerStage – Auburn; 8/7 – 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 7 – The Magic of Louie Foxx
Aug. 14 – Rolie Polie Guacamole
Aug 21 – Sing Along Fun with Nancy Stewart
Aug. 28 – Johnny Bregar
*Kids Showtime Summer Series – Seattle; 8/7; 11:00am; Reptile Man Aug. 7, Bubbleman Aug. 21. 11 a.m. $5 family of four, $2 each additional person. Shows are outdoors, weather permitting.
*Wool and Ewe – Bellevue; 8/7; 11:00am; The farm staff will introduce you to our resident sheep. Learn things about sheep and experience the feel of real wool. Make a wooly craft to take home. All ages welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult. Suggested donation to support the farm $1 per person or $5 per family.
*Peanut Butter and Jam Concerts – Tukwila; 8/7; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Eric Ode July 7, Recess Monkey Aug. 14, The Not-Its! Aug. 21, Caspar Babypants Aug. 28. Bring a picnic and blankets.
*Children’s Concert Series – Mill Creek; 8/7 – 8/14; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; Nancy Stewart July 31, Buck & Elizabeth Aug. 7, Tia Quackertunes Aug. 14. Bring non-perishable food bank donation.
*Wednesdays For Kids! – Kent; 8/7 – 8/14 Wednesdays; 12:00pm – 1:00pm; FREE
Recess Monkey Aug. 7, Caspar Babypants Aug. 14.
*Instrument Petting Zoo – Mukilteo; 8/7; 12:00pm; 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.
*Inflatable Fun – Bellevue; 8/7 – 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.
*Mini Penny Carnival – Seattle; 8/7; 12:45pm – 2:15pm; Kids can come enjoy bouncy houses, games with prizes, and other activities that cost between one and ten pennies.
*Brian Vogan and His Good Buddies Concert – Renton; 8/7; 1:00pm; Listen to fun, eclectic tunes for the whole family at this free outdoor concert.
*Beat the Heat Splash Day – Issaquah; 8/7; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Prepare to run through sprinklers, blow bubbles, and more. The water
carnival starts at 1 p.m., with a fire truck due to arrive at 2:30 p.m. Ages 12 and younger. Pre-registration not required. $2.
*Students Get Free Admission To The Bellevue Art Museum – Bellevue; 8/7; 1:00pm to 5:00pm; Students of all ages can explore the Bellevue Arts Museum after school FREE with printable coupon.
*Kid’s Day – Federal Way; 8/7; 2:00pm – 8:00pm; Chalk It Up contest, sandcastle building, inflatable, arts and crafts, toddler tent, concert and more. Ages 2 to 12. FREE, tickets needed for some activities, concessions available.
*Movies @ Marymoor – Redmond; 8/7 – 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.
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.
Thursday, August 8th :
*Children’s Concerts – Everett; 8/8 – 8/22 Thursdays; 10:00am; Recess Monkey Aug. 8, Rolie Polie Guacamolie Aug. 15, The Brian Waite Band Aug. 22. FREE
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 8/8; 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
*Pierce County Fair – Graham; 8/8 – 8/10; opens at 10:00am; Entertainment, food, displays, animals, carnival rides and games, competitions and more. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 8-10, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 11. $5 ages 6 and older, $5 parking.
*Tugboat Storytime – Seattle; 8/8 & 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.
*Kelsey Creek Kids’ Shows – Bellevue; 8/8; 11:00am – 12:00pm; Enjoy live entertainment from a variety of children’s performers. 11 a.m. to noon. Nancy Stewart Aug. 8, Linda Severt Aug. 15.
*Free Admission To NAAM - Seattle; 8/8; 11:00am – 7:00pm; The Northwest African American Museum is free on the second Thursday of each month.
*Seattle Presents: De Cajon Project – 8/8; 12:00pm – 1:30pm; De Cajón Project’s music and movement is a celebration rooted in the African and Andean traditions of Peru and driven by the incredible rhythms of the cajón (Peruvian box drum). The musicians, dancers and performers of this Seattle-based organization are cultural ambassadors, educators, and above all, amazing artists. 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; 8/8; Thursday 3:00pm – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*Urban Impact Carnival Block Party – Seattle; 8/8; 4:00pm – 7:00pm; Join us as we build community in our neighborhood and celebrate summer. Carnival games, free food, inflatables, music, balloons, face painting and more.
*Capital Hill Art Walk Blitz – Seattle; 8/8; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; On the second Thursday of every month in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, 5pm – 8pm and later. Events include visual arts, musical performances, food and beverage specials, and more. Pick up a printed map at a participating venue and explore Capitol Hill. Art is everywhere! Get FREE admission to the Seattle Asian Art Museum during this time too.
*Summer Life – Seattle; 8/8 – 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; 8/8 – 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
*Moonlight Cinema – Woodinville; 8/8; 6:00pm; The Goonies (PG). Bring a blanket or low back chairs, picnic. Barbeque food and beer garden available. Gates open 6 p.m., movie at dusk. $5, ages 18 and younger with parent or legal guardian.
*Family Movies in the Park – Snohomish; 8/8 – 8/15 Thursdays; 7:00pm; 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.
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 2nd :
*$2 First Fridays at Art ala Carte PDX sponsored by PDX Kids Calendar – Portland; 8/2; Every First Friday of the month you pay only $2 per child for unlimited art! PDX Kids Calendar picked up the bill for the rest! Better yet…if you bring in a bag of recycled goods, toys and trinkets…you get in FREE!
*Ladybug Nature Walk: Mt. Tabor Park – Portland; 8/2; 10:00am; Naturalist led stroll. Ages 2-5, with grown-up. Mt. Tabor not stroller-accessible.
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 8/2; 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.
*Browsing for Beavers At Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 8/2; 11:30am; They’re swimming; they’re gnawing. Tillamook forest’s beavers are hard at work! Beaver played a key role in exploration and settlement of the west, and Oregon in particular, as it was a primary target for fur trappers and traders. We will explore how beavers are uniquely equipped to live in Northwest Oregon.
*Water Wonders at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 8/2; 12:30pm; Bring your water sandals and shorts and get wet in the waters of the Tillamook State Forest! Naturalists will provide the equipment to lead your family through the world of aquatic insects to get an up-close look at their adaptations. Learn how their presence or absence is influenced by the quality of their habitat.
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 8/2; 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.
*Back to School Blast at Learning Palace Cascade Station – Portland; 8/2; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Fun event for teachers, homeschoolers, parents and children. 1-3 pm family session with face painting and craft projects. First 100 kids get gift bags. Door prizes every half hour.
*Drop-In Family Fun at Blue Lake – Fairview; 8/2 – 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
*Batty for Bats at Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 8/2; 1:30pm; Scared of bats? Have no fear! These flying friends are not here, to suck your blood, or tussle your hair. They simply eat mosquitoes out of the air! Join naturalists to discover the bats that live in the Tillamook State Forest and the myths that surround these mini mammals.
*Trees of the Tillamook Forest Walk - Tillamook; 8/2; 2:30pm; 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- Bottle cap magnets at Art a la Carte – Portland; 8/2; 3:00pm – 5:00pm; All ages and all skill levels welcome. Every Friday we do a simple but fun project for the whole family. Create adorable bottle cap magnets. If you want to bring photos of your family to cut out please do! These turn out adorable. Fill the bottle caps with beads, buttons, pictures, ribbon, glitter! Make as many as you would like.
*Free Admission To The Children’s Museum - Portland; 8/2; 4:00pm – 8:00pm; The first Friday of the month you Target sponsors free admission to the Childrens Museum. This month you can make a book.
*Vancouver First Friday Art Walk - Vancouver; 8/2; 5:00pm – 7:00pm; Join us for a fresh spring evening with refreshments, stimulating conversation and inspiring art! Walking maps will be provided to all attendees. This event is free to attend, but an RSVP is requested by replying to this email at firstfriday.artwalk@yahoo.com.
* Camas First Friday - Portland; 8/2; 5:00pm – 8:00pm; Come and join us for January’s First Friday- Game, Craft & Cocoa Night! Enjoy family friendly games and crafts throughout participating downtown merchants. Have fun and the chance to win prizes!
*Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Summer Concert Series – McMinnville; 8/2; 5:30pm – 8:00pm; Join us for an evening of music on the lawn with wine, beer, and food (for purchase).
*Opera at Washington Park Summer Festival – Portland; 8/2; 6:00pm; Portland Summerest Opera – Otello by Giuseppe Verdi. An accomplished local opera company which draws hot young opera singers from all over the country for a memorable concert performance with full orchestra
*Free Friday Night Movie in Esther Short Park: Big Miracle – Vancouver; 8/2; 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
*First Friday Art Walk - SE Portland; 8/2; 6:00pm – 9:00pm; Hosted by Portland’s Eastside art galleries and alternative art venues, First Friday provides arts enthusiasts the opportunity to wander from gallery to gallery for artist receptions and openings during extended hours on the First Friday of every month
*Movie on the Lawn at McMenamin’s – Forest Grove; 8/2; 8:45pm; “The Indian in the Cupboard” begins at dusk. Bring blankets and/or chairs, but no pets or picnics. FREE
Saturday, August 3rd :
*Kids Cook Classes at Portland Farmers Market – Portland; 8/3; 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
*Nadaka Community Festival – Gresham; 8/3; 9:00am – 3:00pm; Nadaka Community Festival is part of the larger Nakada Nature Park and Garden Project which nurtures nature, food and families.Park cleanup, 9 a.m. to noon. Food & fun, noon to 3 p.m. Free hot dogs (while supplies last), face painting, all-ages games, Audubon education birds, music with NW PanMan Terry Baber – Steel Drum.
*Rox in Sox Family Music and Literacy Festival – Lake Oswego; 8/3; 9:00am – 7:00pm; Family festival celebrating music and books: Rox in Sox happens Saturday, August. 3rd on the front grassy lawn of the West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego. The fun begins at 10 am and runs until 7 pm. Admission is free, and families are asked to bring socks, shoes and books at the door to distribute to kids in need in Portland, Kenya and Jamaica. Rox in Sox activities will also include family yoga and other fitness fun, hula hooping, drumming, and a host of hands-on arts and crafts activities, face-painting.
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 8/3; 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.
*Wilsonville Fun in the Park; 8/3; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Loads of fun with Rocket Hounds, Katie Rose Trio, Radio Disney, clown, juggler, inflatables, reptile show and so much more. 10 am-5 pm Aug. 3. Activities free, vendors charge. Town Center Park, 29250 SW Parkway Ct
*Fremont Fest – Portland; 8/3; 10:00am – 6:00pm; One of the oldest street fair celebrations in Portland, Fremont Fest is located in the historic Beaumont neighborhood. The festival will take place Saturday, August 3rd, rain or shine.
*Over 200 crafters
*A centrally located food court
*A children’s area full of fun activities
*Over 50 information booths of various organizations and agencies throughout the city
*6 music stages with over 40 bands performing all day
* Kids Saturday Morning Skate Session At Oaks Park – Portland; 8/3; 10:30am – 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Lookin’ for Lichen (forest walk) At Tillamook Forest Center – Tillamook; 8/3; 11:30am; Ever heard of Freckle Pelt, Peppered Moon, or Beaded Bone? If not, you need to swing on by the Tillamook Forest Center and help us go lookin for lichen. Lichen is an algae-fungi pair that grows throughout the Tillamook State Forest. With over 1,000 kinds in Washington and Oregon you’re in the perfect place to learn about them. A naturalist led walk will show you how lichens are able to produce their own food, shelter, and moisture and how they rely on the clean forest around them for reproduction. Discover the often overlooked world where Methuselah’s Beard still grows!
*Van Gogh Days at Rasmussen Farms – Hood River; 8/3 & 8/4; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Sunflowers continuing through August.Celebrating 70 kinds of sunflowers – Perfect opportunity to paint, cut, take photos and enjoy the many colors of summer. Live music, free wine tasting from Hood River Vineyards,Food Cart, Quilt Show, vegetable games and treasure hunt.
*The Thoroughly Amazing Vaudeville Show at Mall 205 – Portland; 8/3; 4:00pm – 5:30pm; Magical Fantastical Theatrical Camp is holding its third annual Thoroughly Amazing Vaudeville Show on August 3 at 4 PM. The show is the culmination of the works that the kids in the camp have accomplished over a three-week period. Magical Fantastical Theatrical Camp teaches kids ages 6-18 a variety of abilities including: mime, physical comedy, improv, clowning, circus skills, silent film making and musical theater. The show will also highlight a silent film developed and created by the MFT campers.
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 8/3; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 8/3; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*Jazz at Washington Park Summer Festival – Portland; 8/3; 6:00pm; PDX Jazz Presents The Carlton Jackson – Dave Mills Big Band
A revered line-up of Portland’s most-loved jazz musicians paying homage to great composers of the jazz form
Sunday, August 4th:
*$2 Days at OMSI – Portland; 8/4; 9:30am – 7:00pm; Explore the museum for $2 on the first Sunday of each month.
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 8/4; 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; 8/4; 1:00pm-2:15pm; This program integrates nature exploration, art, literature, music, movement, and outdoor play. It is geared toward families with young children (preferably ages 2-6 but all are welcome.) For more specific information, call (503) 636-9886 ext. 225. FREE.
*Alpenrose’s Dairyville – Portland; 7/28; 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 Karaoke at Pink Feather Restaurant and Lodge – Portland; 8/4; 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.
*Portland Festival Symphony at Washington Park Summer Festival – Portland; 8/4; 6:00; Celebrating the magic and power of classical music for over 30 years under the inspired baton of Maestro Lajos Balogh
Monday, August 5th :
*Music Class with Johnny Keener at The Treehouse – Portland; 8/5; 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; 8/5; 10:00am – 11:00am; Enjoy this biweekly sing-along with Amy. Bring the kids and join in for music, singing, games, and fun.
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Laurelhurst Cafe – Portland; 8/5; 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; 8/5; 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; 8/5; 10:00am – 4:30pm; Admission is free to this museum every Monday.
*Mondays On The Mall – Portland – Downtown Central Transit Mall; 8/5; Various Times; Free events all day including Wii play, caricatures, the original p