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.
Discover the Casual Side of the Seattle Symphony in Ravel Untuxed (Seattle; 9/20; tickets start at $12 plus service fee)
Les Misérables: Intimate, Immersive Production of the Musical Phenom (Seattle; 9/20 – 9/27 select days; tickets start at $12.50 plus service fee)
Comedian Ben Bailey: Host of TV’s Cash Cab (Seattle; 9/20 – 9/21; tickets as low as FREE plus service fee)
Riders In The Sky: Grammy-Winning Country Western Band (Portland; 9/21; tickets start at $11.75 plus service fee)
Travel Guru Rick Steves Leads Discussion on Spiritual Journeys (Seattle; 9/22; tickets start at $14.50 plus service fee)
James and the Giant Peach: Enchanting Family Musical Gives Warm Fuzzies (Portland; 9/28 – 10/19 Saturdays; tickets start at $11 plus service fee)
ComedySportz Kids & Family Matinee (Seattle; 9/28 & 10/26; tickets start at $4 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, September 20th :
*Washington State Fair (formerly the Puyallup Fair) – Puyallup; 9/20 – 9/22; Farm animals, agriculture, home arts, rides, exhibits, kids’ activities, food, rodeo shows (Sept. 6-8) and concerts. Fiestas Patrias Latino Celebration, noon to 9 p.m. Sept. 15. SillyVille includes train rides, food court, rides and more. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays (9 a.m. today), 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays through Sept. 22. $12.50, $9 ages 6 to 18 and seniors, free ages 5 and younger, free 9 a.m. to noon today with non-perishable food donation. Kids free Sept. 7 and 8 with coupon (www.becu.org/freekids). Rodeo, Luminasia exhibit and concerts priced separately. Packages available. Parking $10 to $12.
*Paint Me a Story - Bellevue; 9/20; 10:00am – 10:30am or 10:30am – 11:00am; Join us for this popular weekly story time and painting activity. Ages 2 and older. Please check website for current schedules. No registration required. FREE
*Kruckeberg Garden Tots – Shoreline; 9/20; 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.
*PARK(ing) Day – Seattle; 9/20; 10:00am – 3:00pm; PARK(ing) Day is a one-day global event in which artists, activists and citizens collaborate to transform parking spots into temporary public parks. This year’s PARK(ing) Day event is presented as part of the 2013 Seattle Design Festival. Enjoy live painting and instruction from muralists Xavier Lopez Jr. and Ryan “Henry” Ward from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. PARK(ing) Day takes place outside SAM Downtown, on University Street between First and Second Avenues.
*Skykomish Mini-Train Ride – Skykomish; 9/20 & 9/21; 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.
*Nature Alphabet – Tacoma; 9/20; 3; 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.
*FreeTête-à-têter At Frye Museum – Seattle; 9/20; 11:00am to 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; 9/20; 12:00pm to 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.
*Fremont Oktoberfest - Seattle; 9/20; Entertainment, tasting garden, kids’ area (zucchini car races, arts and crafts, pumpkin carving and more, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 21-22.), food and Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving (1 p.m. Sept. 21-22.). Dogtoberfest on Sept. 22 includes special doggie activities. 5 p.m. to midnight Sept. 20, 11 a.m. to midnight Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 22. FREE admission to the all-ages village, $20 to $30 tasting garden admission (ages 21 and older only).
*FREE Friday Night Live at Imagine Children’s Museum – Everett; 9/20; 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.
Saturday, September 21st :
*Whidbey Island Kite Festival – Coupeville; 9/21 & 9/22; starts 9:00am both days; Features colorful and impressive kite flying displays, kids’ kite making, beginning sportkite lessons, and a teddy bear drop (ages 9 and younger, 1 p.m.). 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 22.
*Tales & Trails for Little Tykes – Seattle; 9/21 & 9/25; 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.
*Robothon – Seattle; 9/21; 10:00am – 5:00pm; Watch robots of all shapes and sizes compete against each other in various tasks and challenges.
*Free Wing Luke Museum Entrance – Seattle; 9/21; 10:00am – 8:00pm; The Wing Luke Museum offers free admission on the third Saturday of each month, for family day.
*Saturday Family Concert: Caspar Babypants – Seattle; 9/21 & 9/22; 10:30am & 12:30pm; Concert doubles as a CD release party for his latest album Baby Beatles which features kid-friendly covers of favorite Beatles hits. 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sept. 21-22. Free ages 12 and younger, $5 adults accompanying kids, $25 unaccompanied adult.
*Salmon SEEson in Issaquah – Issaquah; 9/21 – 11/10 Saturdays & Sundays; 11:00am & 1:00pm; See salmon return to Issaquah Creek, where you can view spawning from the bridge or through viewing windows. Trained docents from Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery (FISH) will give tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, September 7 to November 10.
*Snoqualmie River Fish Festival – Fall City; 9/21; 11:00am – 3:00pm; Go on a treasure hunt for 100 pieces of hand-made art while helping clean up the banks of the Snoqualmie River, try riding in a hand-carved cedar dugout canoe with the Snoqualmie Tribe wood carvers, plus enjoy food, music and entertainment.
*Sky’s the Limit: Family and Educator Day – Seattle; 9/21; 11:00am – 4:00pm; Inspired by themes of conservation, ecology, and community, Family and Educator Day celebrates the work of Buster Simpson and the Frye Collection exhibitions. Tour the galleries, dance to live music, take part in many craft and art-making activities, enjoy storytelling hour, and contribute to a time capsule that will be buried when Buster Simpson and students from Sammamish High School plant a tree at the Frye! Educators receive take-home lesson plans and should R.S.V.P. by September 16 to education@fryemuseum.org. Clock hours are available through Seattle Pacific University.
*Comcast Arena 10th Anniversary Block Party – Everett; 9/21; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Comcast Arena is celebrating its 10th anniversary with live music, food trucks and family activities.
*Crafts of the Past – Tacoma; 9/21 – 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; 9/21; 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
*Pioneer Festival – Tacoma; 9/21; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Experience pioneer life at Tacoma’s first permanent, non-native residence with hands-on activities, games, music and heritage craft demonstrations. FREE
*Tacoma Moon Festival – Tacoma; 9/21; 12:00pm – 8:00pm; Live music, dance and theatrical performances from a variety of cultures, food, crafts, vendors, kids’ activities and more.
*Pioneer Day – Arlington; 9/21; 1:00pm; Kids can experience hands-on demonstrations of some of the daily tasks of pioneer life, including milking a cow, churning butter, grinding wheat, sewing and washing clothes, making shingles and more. $5, $2 ages 12 and younger.
*Green Hour - Bellevue; 9/21; 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; 9/21; 1:00pm to 3:00pm; Free craft time for kids each Saturday. $2 material fee or free with admission.
*The Wizard of Oz 75th Anniversary Celebration – Seattle; 9/21; 1:00pm – 3:00pm; Come celebrate The Wizard of Oz’s 75th anniversary with the Kidgits Club at Northgate Mall. Families can participate in a variety of imaginative Wizard of Oz inspired activity stations that feature viewings of The Wizard of Oz film clips, craft-making and coloring activities, cut-out character photo opportunities and exclusive giveaways.
*Youngstown Cultural Arts Center Open House – Seattle; 9/21; 1:00pm – 5:00pm; Tour the lofts, meet the artists, and enjoy food, entertainment, and an art sale. Studio tours 1 to 6 p.m., entertainment 6 to 9 p.m.
*Nature Walk at Lake Hills Greenbelt – Bellevue; 9/21; 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; 9/21; 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.
*Cultural Dance Series – Bellevue; 9/21; 7:00pm – 9:00pm; 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.
Sunday, September 22nd:
*Downtown to Defiance: Sunday Parkways – Tacoma; 9/22; 7:30am – 2:00pm; Walk, bike, run or roll from downtown Tacoma to Point Defiance Park on the newly opened waterfront trail that connects the two. Parks stops along the way will feature arts, environment, and health and wellness information and activities. Stop for water, the restroom, or just stretch your legs. Local bike shops will be stationed along the route at the park stops and provide complimentary, basic bike support to keep you moving along the route. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., celebrate with activities in the Point Defiance bowl, including a kids’ ride at 11 a.m. with Kidical Mass from Point Defiance to Point Ruston and back. FREE, pre-register.
*Bicycle Sundays – Seattle; 9/22; 10:00am – 6:00pm; The four-mile stretch of Lake Washington Boulevard between Mount Baker Beach and Seward Park is closed to motorized traffic 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. several Sundays through September.
*Oddmall: The Emporium of the Weird – Seattle; 9/22; 10:00am – 6:00pm; With over 150 artists, 7 food trucks and 2 stages of entertainment all day long, Oddmall is more than just an ordinary craft show. It’s a celebration of uniqueness, creativity, imagination, and wonder where artists, crafters, and like-minded sorts gather to offer their unusual creations for public consumption.
*Arts Crush Kick-Off Fair – Seattle; 9/22; 11:00am – 2:00pm; Browse art booths and watch free live performances in anticipation of Arts Crush, the month-long festival of free or pay-what-you-will arts events happening in October.
*Day of Music – Seattle; 9/22; 11:00am – 5:00pm; Seattle Symphony hosts dozens of local musical performers on five stages inside and outside Benaroya Hall, and will present two 45-minute performances including the world premiere of the Native Lands Community Composition. Soundbridge will have activities for young kids, and food trucks will line Second Avenue during the event.
*Cast Off! Free Public Sailing – Seattle; 9/22; 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! They 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
*Descriptive Sculpture Tour – Seattle; 9/22; 2:00pm; Arts and Visually Impaired Audiences, Jack Straw Productions, and the Seattle Art Museum present descriptive walking tours of the Olympic Sculpture Park. Tour will also include a short live performance by Lelavision. Lelavision uses original kinetic sculpture, live music, and dance in their performances of “Physical Music.”
*Rainier Beach Community Center and Pool Opening Celebration – Seattle; 9/22; 2:00pm – 5:00pm; Enjoy light refreshments, live music and tours of the new facilities. The pool is not quite open for swimming; today’s event will be tours only. The new pool features a lazy river, indoor slide and spray play area, and birthday party facilities.
Monday, September 23rd:
*Masterpiece Monday - Bellevue; 9/23; 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.
Tuesday, September 24th:
*Village Playdays – Seattle; 9/24; 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.
Wednesday, September 25th:
*FREE Drop-In Playgroup – Seattle; 9/25; 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
*Trophy Cupcakes and Parties Book Launch – Seattle; 9/25; 6:30pm – 8:00pm; Trophy Cupcakes and Party founder Jennifer Shea will introduce her new book, “Trophy Cupcakes and Parties!” and share tips on party planning and how she comes up with those remarkable flavors. She’ll answer your baking and party questions and sign copies of her new book. There might be a cupcake to try, too! This event is free, but registration is requested.
Thursday, September 26th :
*Kids Co. Play and Learn – Seattle; 9/26; 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
*Schack-toberfest – Everett; 9/26 – 9/29; 10:00am – 6:00pm; Art and harvest themed festival benefiting the Schack Art Center. Events include glass-blowing demonstrations, kids’ activities and “Make It Now” glass pumpkin classes in the hot shop. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 28, noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 29.
*Tugboat Storytime – Seattle; 9/26; 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 Sept. 12 and 26. Not intended for preschool groups.
*Half Priced Admission Imagine Childrens Museum – Everett; 9/26 Thursdays; 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. is half priced ( $3.88)
*Tree Story with Swil – Sammamish; 9/26; 7:00pm; World class virtuoso Native American violinist and storyteller, Swil Kanim, will share his Tree Story and the gift of the tree and its life. From the very beginning as a seedling surviving its first winter thru its many uses
as it grows, he will take you thru the life of the tree that became his violin. Swil Kanim will also talk about the power of music and the feelings he can create with his violin.
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, September 20th :
*Ladybug Nature Walk: Wallace Park – Portland; 9/13; 10:00am – 11:00am; Naturalist led stroll. Ages 2-5, with grown-up. Stroller-accessible. Cost: $4 per child
*Music From Mr. Hoo from The Alphabeticians – Portland; 9/20; 11:00am to 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.
*Red Yarn at Warehouse Cafe – Portland; 9/6; 10:00am; Red Yarn is a dynamic Portland family performer. Weaving together energetic live music, puppetry and storytelling, he teaches positive values while reviving American folklore for a younger generation. Join Red Yarn & his lovable critters every Friday morning at Warehouse Cafe. Audiences will sing, dance, act, and experience the joy of community during Red Yarn’s interactive shows. This show is hosted by Warehouse Cafe, a coffee shop, market and community space committed to healthy food at fair prices. http://knowthyfood.com. Cost: $5 suggested donation
*Music Class with Mo Phillips at The Treehouse – Portland; 9/20; 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
*Oaks Park Oktoberfest - Portland; 9/20; 12:00pm – 12:00am; German style fall festival is back with authentic food and beverages, live oompah music and dancing in two festhallen, the region’s best craft and import vendors, wiener dog races, agility dog demonstrations, cooking demonstrations, Kinderplatz children’s activities featuring Rocktoberfest, fun family contests including pretzel toss, condiment art, Oktoberfest bear hug and, of course, The Chicken Dance contest… plus much more! Kinderplatz hours 12-5:30 pm. Cost: $3 ages 16+, $2 ages 0-15.
*Story and Stroll at Tryon Creek – Portland; 9/20; 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.
$5 Friday Artshop at Art a la Carte – Portland; 9/20; 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
*Family Friday Flicks at the Hillsboro Main Library – Hillsboro; 9/20; 6:30pm – 8:00pm; Friday Family Flicks features family friendly movies on the third Friday of most months at the Main Library! Popcorn provided, courtesy of Regal Cinema’s Movies on TV Highway. Recommended for ages 4+ and adult family members. Children must be supervised by adult family members. Seating is limited to 100 people.
*Swift Watch at Chapman School – Portland; 9/20 – 9/23; 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Watch thousands of Vaux’s swifts swirl into the chimney at Chapman School. Audubon Society has info table most nights. Be courteous guests! Parking is very limited.
*Tears of Joy Theatre Free Community Night – Portland; 9/20; 6:00pm – 8:30pm; Tears of Joy Theatre presents a free community event at Markham Elementary School’s Auditorium on to launch our year-long partnership with Markham Elementary. Tears of Joy will be offering a free community performance of Malika, Queen of the Cats. There will also be snacks, craft activities, and live musical entertainment by Julia and Tarik Banzi of Al Andalus Ensemble. They composed and recorded the original music for this production.
*Family Park Night at East Portland Community Center – Portland; 9/20; 6:30pm – 8:30pm; Low cost night out with the family. Indoor Park toys, sports and trampoline. 1st and 3rd Fridays. Cost: $1.25/child
Saturday, September 21st :
*Sidewalk Chalk Festival – Forest Grove; 9/21; 8:00am – 4:00pm; Do you remember the first time you saw a rainbow, watched your first Dracula or zombie movie, or took a close look at a honey bee on a flower? Why not try to draw that picture on the sidewalk in downtown Forest Grove at the 23rd Annual Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival? The cost is $7 for member of Vally Art and $12 for non-members. This fee includes a tray of colorful pastel chalk (that you get to keep) and an assigned square to create your masterpiece on for the day. You do not have to be a professional artist to participate. Anyone of any age can participate. Come out and join in the creative fun or view the art work. There is no judging, only admiration. Free to watch.
*STEM Expo at Clark College – Vancouver; 9/21; 9:00am – 2:00pm; Expo includes Mad Science discovery station, robotics, storytelling and lots of fun Science, Technology, Engineering and Math activities. Reservations are required for one activity. This is part of STEM Fest held September 20, 21 & 22 by the Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council (SWWDC), in partnership with the local school districts, colleges and businesses, will host Southwest Washington’s first Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) festival. Directed at K-12 students, their parents and teachers, STEM Fest will provide free, fun-filled activities hosted by local businesses. Check the web page for detailed list of all activities.
*Saturday Morning Music Time at TreeHouse Children’s Boutique – Portland; 9/21; 10:00am; Treehouse Children’s Boutique has music every Saturday morning at 10 am. Each week one of Portland’s favorite children’s entertainers will be there to play and sing. $5 per child. Coffee, tea and snacks available for donation. Check out the Facebook page or website for performer details www.misstreehouse.com.
*Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek – Portland; 9/21; 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.
*Sturgeon Festival at Water Resources Center – Vancouver; 9/21; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Every year the Water Resources Education Center recognizes sturgeon and Columbia River ecosystems. This free, fun event offers opportunities for the entire family to learn about fish and other animals in and around the Columbia River. Highlights for this year’s Sturgeon Festival include fish dissections and interactive, hands-on activities. The festival is sponsored by the City of Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
*Portland VegFest at Convention Center – Portland; 9/21; 10:00am – 6:00pm; VegFest celebrates and promotes sustainable, compassionate and healthy food choices and lifestyles. This low-cost, fun and food-filled event welcomes everyone! VegFest features: Free samples of foods, speakers, cooking demos, family and teen activities, non-profit organizations, film screenings, more. Bring your own bag to collect samples and info. Cost: $8, free ages 0-12
*Scappoose Sauerkraut Festival – Scappoose; 9/21; 10:00am – 6:00pm; Highlights of this family oriented, hometown event include cabbage bowling, sauerkraut ice cream, chocolate sauerkraut cupcakes, a sauerkraut eating contest, sauerkraut sampling and judging, the Famous Scappoose Sandwich, arts and crafts, free kid’s activities and petting zoo, pony rides, live entertainment all day and special guests like Timber Joey and Bottle Bill.
*Ruckus in the Lobby at Artists Rep Theatre – Portland; 9/21; 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; 9/21; 10:30am – 12:00pm; For $6 children 10 and under can skate (skates included). Parents free with paid child admission.
*Mo Phillips & Guests at Gresham Arts Plaza – Gresham; 9/21; 11:00am – 12:00pm; The best of the Northwest’s “kindie” music scene performs at Gresham’s Arts Plaza this summer for Musicalu, a free, family-friendly music series. September 21st – Mo Phillips & Special Guests – End summer on a high note with Mo and his friends
*Museum Family Saturday at the Maritime Museum – Portland; 9/21; 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.
*Polish Festival N PDX – Portland; 9/21; 11:00am – 10:00pm; During the festival, we provide non-stop stage performances, including a few dance groups and music bands, polka contest on Saturday and Sunday, a street dance, delicious Polish food and imported Polish beer.
*Oregon Pacific Railroad Train Rides – Portland; 9/21 – 9/28 Saturdays; 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.
*Children’s Discovery Carnival at Lents Park – Portland; 9/21; 1:00pm – 4:00pm; Join us for music, hands-on nature crafts, displays and activities for families and children under 12 at Lents Park. Supplies provided by Johnson Creek Watershed Council. Please register so we have enough supplies for everyone!
*Fall Laurelfest at Laurelwood Public House & Brewery – Portland; 9/21; 3:00pm – 9:00pm; Live music, bouncy house, corn hole, BBQ. Family friendly fun!
* Free Family Swim At Marshall Community Center - Vancouver; 9/21; 4:45pm – 6:30pm; Bauman Chiropractic is sponsoring free family swims at Marshall Pool Saturday evenings.
*Movie at Steamers & Screamers – Portland; 9/21; 5:00pm; Enjoy a movie every Saturday night. FREE
*Star Parties: Autumnal Equinox Celebration at Rooster Rock or Stub Stewart – Portland; 9/21; 7:30pm; OMSI, Rose City Astronomers and Vancouver Sidewalk Astronomers will celebrate the beginning of autumn as we gaze at the heavens at Rooster Rock State Park and Stub Stewart State Park. $5 parking per vehicle. From beginners to experts of all ages, visitors will have the opportunity to view the stars and other objects through a variety of telescopes. Viewing highlights includes Venus, Saturn, Moon and more. On the scheduled day of each OMSI Star Party, it is suggested that interested visitors call the OMSI Star Parties Hotline, (503) 797-4000 #3 then #5, or check the OMSI Star Parties web sitefor possible weather-related cancellations. Dress for the weather, flashlight with red cover. Rooster Rock State Park (exit 25 off I-84) and Stub Stewart State Park (off OR-47).
Sunday, September 22nd:
*Woodstock Farmers Market’s Autumn’s Arrival – Portland; 9/22; 10:00am – 2:00pm; Join the popular Woodstock Farmers Market for Autumn’s Arrival. Bring the whole family for live music from Anna Antonia Giedwoyn & Friends, delicious food, free kids activities, and face painting. There will also be fresh produce, meat, cheese, hot food, and more from the 35+ vendors.
*Bigfoot Craft Station at Green Bean Books – Portland; 9/22; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Treat your kids with this fun and free activity as they make their own Bigfoot feet.
*Family Fun Time at Unplugged Games – Portland; 9/22; 12:00pm – 4:00pm; Let’s play! Whether your family likes classic board games, card games, or is looking to learn something new, Unplugged Games has lots of great ideas to make family game time fun. Try one of the games from our library, or bring one from home to play with new friends. See a new game you want to learn? Our staff will teach you. Unplugged Games lives up to its name by offering non-electronic games of all types, with a focus on role-playing games, board games, and card games.
*Family tour of the Portland Art Museum – Portland; 9/22; 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; 9/22; 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.
*Corn Roast – Forest Grove; 9/22; 1:00pm – 5:00pm; This event celebrating Forest Grove, offers fresh-roasted corn, along with burgers, sausages, hot dogs and more. Expect interactive displays, live entertainment exhibits and activities. This event takes place on the west lawn of Marsh Hall-on the Pacific University campus.
Monday, September 23rd :
*Music Class with Johnny Keener at The Treehouse – Portland; 9/23; 10:00am; He will craft music for kids that is exciting and fun, as well as artistically satisfying. He is committed to inviting kids into the musical process providing them with a musical experience they won’t forget! Best for ages 0-6. Cost: $5 per child
*Storytime with Olive Rootbeer and Dingo at Laurelhurst Cafe – Portland; 9/23; 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; 9/23; 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; 9/23; 10:00am – 4:30pm; Admission is free to this museum every Monday.
*Mondays On The Mall – Portland – Downtown Central Transit Mall; Various Times; Free events all day including Wii play, caricatures, the original photo booth and entertainment.
Tuesday, September 24th:
*Preschool Play and Skate at Oaks Park – Portland; 9/24; 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; 9/24; 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; 9/24; 11:00am – 11:30am; Get ready to get immersed in the world of books! FREE
*Mommy Matinee at the Kennedy School – Portland; 9/24 & 9/25; 2:30pm – 4:30pm; Tuesdays & Wednesdays moms, dads, grandparents, nannies and their babies are welcome. Let the kids fuss – we don’t mind! Click here for today’s movie. Cost: $3 pp
Wednesday, September 25th:
*Visit the Historic Belmont Firehouse – Portland; 9/25; 9:00am – 3:00pm; Drop in any Wednesday to see the exhibits and learn about safety for you and your family. No appointment is necessary.
*Honeybee Hikes at Leach Botanical Gardens – Portland; 9/25; 10:00am – 11:00am; Weekly nature-related activities for young children and their adult caregivers. Discover the secrets of the Garden and its critters through stories and outdoor explorations. Dress for the weather and wear good walking shoes for unpaved, uneven walkways that could be muddy. Strollers limit where we can explore, so carriers are ideal for little ones. No pre-registration required. Best for ages 1-6. Cost: $2 per child
*Music Class at the Treehouse with Mr. Ben – Portland; 9/25; 10:00am; Enjoy music with kindie favorite Mr. Ben. Cost: $5 per child
*Ladybug Theater at the SMILE Station – Portland; 9/25; 10:30am; Charming play, some with puppets, every Wed. Best for ages 2+ with good theatre manners. Cost: $4
*Storytime at Steamers & Screamers – Vancouver; 9/25; 11:30am – 12:45pm; Enjoy a story in the play area every Wednesday with play space admission. Wear socks! Cost: $4.95 per child
*Mommy Matinee at the St Johns Theater- Portland; 9/25; 1:00pm – 2:30pm; Parents, nannies, grandparents and caregivers, bring your babies to these films, from G to R ratings. Let the wee ones fuss, they don’t mind. Every Wednesday, first showing, unless an event has been booked. Check movie listings for showtimes or call 503-249-7474 . Cost $3.00
*Family Day at the Washington County Museum - Portland; 9/25; 2:00pm – 4:00pm
*Dissect a Flower at Seven Dees Eastisde – Portland; 9/25; 4:00pm; Learn what a plant has in common with a solar panel, how plants gather and store energy, and different ways that plants attract pollinators and reproduce. We will dissect a flower to see some of its inner parts and learn their functions. Cost: $5
Thursday, September 26th :
*Music and Puppetry with Red Yarn at the Treehouse – Portland; 9/26; 10:00am; Red Yarn a dynamic children’s performer, weaving live music, puppetry and interactive storytelling into engaging shows for family audiences. Whether performing solo or with the Red Yarn Puppet Band, the red-bearded bard teaches positive values while reinvigorating American folklore for younger generations. $5 per child
*St Johns Swapnplay Playspace Open Play - Portland; 9/26; 10:00am – 12:00pm; Free to all! This is a chance to come learn, play and grow. Free toddler/preschooler art class from 10-11. First come first served as we run out of materials after 15 students. Open Play is an open time for non-members to enjoy the space.
*Storytime at A Children’s Place Bookstore – Portland; 9/26; 10:30am – 11:00am; Enjoy this free weekly storytime at the lovely A Children’s Place Bookstore. A variety of books for different age ranges will be read. FREE.
*Storytime with Olive and Dingo at Another Read Through – Portland; 9/26; 3:00pm; Olive Rootbeer and Dingo will read stories, sing songs, make balloon animals, and generally entertain and whoop it up with any kids and grownups who stop by. Donations welcome.
*Storytime at Green Bean Books – Portland; 9/26; 3:30pm – 4:00pm; GBB is now offering a second weekly story time! Join us any Thursday afternoon, 3:30-4:00pm for stories and laughter! FREE
*Last Thursday at The Alberta Arts District – Portland; 9/26; 4:00pm – 10:00pm; Last Thursday in the Alberta Arts District is a community grown event featuring artists, vendors, and musicians. The monthly event has become increasingly popular, and, in recent years, has been attended by thousands of people, particularly in the warm weather months.
For more lists of local events in western OR check out::
* PDX Kids Calendar - this is a comprehensive events-based website for families in the Portland area.
NATIONAL EVENTS:
*Free Craft Activities at Lakeshore Learning Stores– Sat. ; 11am to 3pm; Kids can come to this free craft time each week for a new craft (plus print a $5 off $25 coupon).
*Pottery Barn Kids Book Club- Tuesday 1/22; 11-11:30am; Kids of all ages can attend storytime every Tuesday. Members receive an official Book Club Passport and a special gift after attending 5 storytimes.
*Barnes and Noble Free Storytime - Times and events vary by location. Check your location for specific story’s available this weekend.
Fun & Frugal Family Events 9/20 – 9/26 is a post from: Thrifty NW Mom
The post Fun & Frugal Family Events 9/20 – 9/26 appeared first on Thrifty NW Mom.