Explore the 1888 log cabin located at Kelsey Creek Farm Park, and discover how pioneers lived: do household and farm tasks, learn about Eastside history and play games. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Location:Kelsey Creek Farm Park, Bellevue | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 425-450-1049 | Web site
Bear Awareness Week at the Zoo
It's all about the bears! Stop by the Polar Bear exhibit to view the zoo's four male bears. Special learning opportunities and activities will be available throughout the week to learn more about the lives of bears.
Date: 05/11/2008 - 05/17/2008 Time: During zoo hours Location:Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with zoo admission Event Info: (General) 253- 591-5337 | Web site
Exhibitions
Dante Marioni: Form, Color, Pattern
The exhibit is a survey comprising thirty exceptional glass works crafted over the past two decades by artist, Dante Marioni, known for his mastery of Venetian techniques to create graceful glass forms in bold colors and with classic lines. Included in the exhibition are pieces from the artist’s personal collection as well as one multi-vessel wall display made specifically for this exhibition. Date: 02/16/2008 - 09/21/2008 Time: Open during Museum hours Location:Museum of Glass, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with Museum admission Event Info: 253-284-4750 | Web site
Lino Tagliapietra in Retrospect: A Modern Renaissance in Italian Glass
Take a look at the art and 40-year career of Lino Tagliapietra, known as the maestro of glassblowing. The exhibition comprises 169 objects acquired from the artist’s own collection and collections around the world, including pivotal and renowned series of artistic work, designs made for industry, and private objects that have never been exhibited.
Date: 02/23/2008 - 08/24/2008 Time: Open during Museum hours Location:Museum of Glass, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with Museum admission Event Info: 253-284-4750 | Web site
A Couple of Ways of Doing Something: Photographs by Chuck Close, Poems by Bob Holman
Washington native Chuck Close displays his realist photographic portrait paintings which have been created in a broad range of mediums from computer-generated prints to large-scale tapestries. Each portrait is accompanied by the words of poet Bob Holman and include portraits of his close friends. Date: 03/01/2008 - 06/15/2008 Time: During museum hours Location:Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with museum admission Event Info: 253-272-4258 | Web site
Becoming American: Teenagers and Immigration
Imagine growing up in a foreign land. Now imagine doing that as a teenager, one of the most challenging times of your youth. Explore the lives of fifity-nine teenagers growing up as immigrants in America through photographs and captions in their own words. Date: 03/22/2008 - 06/01/2008 Time: Open during museum hours Location:Washington State History Museum, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with museum admission Event Info: 253-272-3500 | Web site
Living Legacies: Homage to a Maestro
Fifteen contemporary artists are featured in this exhibit as an homage to glass master Lino Tagliapietra. Sculptural works by artists such as Dale Chihuly, Dante Marioni, Richard Marquis and more will be displayed throughout the Museum.
Date: 03/28/2008 - 09/07/2008 Time: During museum hours Location:Museum of Glass, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with museum admission Event Info: 253-284-4750 | Web site
The West the Railroads Made
Head back to an era of coal-fired engines and iron tracks. Learn about how the West was made - through railroads! Over 80 artifacts, rare railroad memoribilia, photos and paintings are included in the exhibit. Date: 04/13/2008 - 01/24/2009 Time: During museum hours Location:Washington State History Museum, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with museum admission Event Info: 253-272-3500 | Web site
Bear Awareness Day at NW Trek
A full day dedicated to bears! Learn about the grizzly creatures: what makes them tick, how to keep them at bay, and how to avoid bear break-ins. Visit the black bear exhibit at 11 a.m., the grizzly bear exhibit at 1 p.m., stop by the teddy bear clinic fo a check-up, and join in bear crafts and games throughout the day.
Date: 05/17/2008 Time: During open hours Location:Northwest Trek, Eatonville | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with admission Event Info: 360-832-6117 | Web site
Queen Victoria's Birthday at Fort Nisqually
The royal reenactors of Fort Nisqually celebrate the birthday of her Majesty, Queen Victoria with the firing of cannons, muskets and toasts. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Location:Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $4, students and seniors $3, children $2 Event Info: 253-591-5339 | Web site
Faces of Leadership: Presidential Portraiture
This exhibition features over 30 artworks and images of our presidents throughout history from the permanent collections of the Washington State Historical Society. Date: 11/10/2007 - 10/05/2008 Time: Open during Museum hours Location:Washington State History Museum, Tacoma | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with Museum admission Event Info: 253-272-3500 | Web site
Festivals and Fairs
Remlinger Farms Season Opening and Country Fair
Remlinger Farms unshutters for the season just in time for Mother's Day. Mothers are invited to visit the Customer Service desk for coupons, and the whole family will enjoy checking out the gleaming Mustangs exhibited by Mustangs Northwest. The Country Fair features rides, the steam train, baby animals, musical performance by Eric Ode and a hay maze. Date: 05/10/2008 - 06/08/2008 Time: Saturdays, Sundays, Memorial Day 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Location:Remlinger Farms, Carnation | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $11, under 1 free Event Info: 425-333-4135 | Web site
Child Safety Fair and Baby Extravaganza
Get all your safety info in one place at Overlake Hospital's annual event. Get a free a carseat check and child fingerprinting and photo IDs, get your picture taken with McGruff the Crime Dog or on a police motorcycle, and visit the Kids Kraft Korner. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Location:Factoria Mall, Bellevue | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 425-688-5259 | Web site
Festival for the Birds
Learn about the world's migratory bird species at the zoo's annual International Migratory Bird Day celebration and enjoy lots of activities and bird demonstrations in the Family Farm. There's a 6:45 a.m. bird walk for all ages and abilities; call 206-548-2500 to register. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Location:Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with admission Event Info: 206-615-0076 | Web site
Lacey Spring Fun Fair
Roll up all the fun things you can think of - and you have the Lacey Spring Fun Fair! March on down to the parade on Saturday at noon. Check out the car show, the entertainment stages and best of all -- KidsWorld! St. Martin's University, 5300 Pacific Ave. S.W., Lacey. Date: 05/17/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 360-481-4393 | Web site
Livable Communities Fair
Submitted by Christine Matter-Rinehart
The Pierce County Livable Communities Fair features a wide variety of resources promoting livable communities. A new feature at this year’s fair is the Healthy Kids and Green Parenting area. You’ll find information geared toward parents and caregivers of young children and pregnant moms, including representatives from local natural baby gear shops, the Pierce County Breastfeeding Alliance, and several Health Department programs focusing on children’s health and safety. The Health Department's Lead SAFE Program will be offering free blood lead level testing for children and pregnant and nursing moms, and Washington Toxics Coalition will be on hand to test toys for lead and other harmful chemicals, and will share other resources with parents to help ensure children are playing with safe toys. If you have toys you are concerned about, bring them along to the fair to be tested for free. Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall, 2727 East D St., Tacoma. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-798-4459 | Web site | email
Syttende Mai
Bring your Norwegian Flag to wave at Ballard's homegrown parade down Market Street (Note time change: parade begins at 4 p.m.) -- which happens to be the largest of its kind in the U.S. -- the highlight of its celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day. But spend the whole afternoon in the neighborhood: the Bergen Place plaza downtown features Norwegian music and dancing from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., the Ballard Community Center (6020 28th Ave. N.W.) hosts traditional Norwegian children's games from 1-3 p.m. and you can have dinner at the Nordic Heritage Museum at 6 p.m. ($45, under 10 free). New this year -- view Norwegian fjord horses for free at a location as yet unannounced. Click on the link for dinner info, directions, schedule. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: Times vary Location: Other Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
U-District Street Fair
The unofficial kick-off of the streetfair season is back for its 39th year with its buskers and live music, fair food, craft booths and people-watching extraordinaire. Look for the kids' area, where children can play in the bouncy house, run through a maze and enjoy family perfomers such as magicians, drumming groups, puppet troupes and others. University Way Northeast, Seattle. Date: 05/17/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Other Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Poulsbo Viking Fest
Celebrate Syttende Mai, or Norwegian Constitution Day, at Poulsbo's 40th annual festival. Festivities include a parade, participants in traditional Norwegian dress, music and food. Held at Anderson Parkway and Liberty Bay Park in downtown Poulsbo. Date: 05/16/2008 - 05/18/2008 Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Family Day at EMP
EMP hosts a family oriented day on the third Saturday of every month. Enjoy art projects, live music, exhibit tours and workshops for all ages. Today, artist Toi Sennhauser leads an all-ages art workshop (11 a.m.-3 p.m.); Portland band Amelia performs rustic pop off its third CD, A Long, Lovely List of Repairs (12:30 p.m., 2 p.m.); and docents lead bilingual tours of American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music (1:30 p.m., 3 p.m.). Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location:Experience Music Project, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with admission: $12-$15, ages 10 and under free Event Info: 206-EMP-LIVE | Web site
Seattle Cheese Festival
Taste cheese and watch cooking demonstrations, and let the kids march down the street in their farm animal costumes (bring yours from home), both days at 10:15 a.m. Takes place on Pike Place in the market, north of Pike Street. Click on the link for a schedule. Date: 05/17/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location:Pike Place Market, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Films
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Dig the book The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian? Then catch the movie at Regal Cinemas in Auburn. It's a special event for the opening and you can play games, win prizes, balloons, and more. Activities are free and open to the public in the theatre lobby. Regal Cinemas, 1101 Supermall Way, Auburn. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 2-4 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-735-8052 | Web site
Get Moving
Country Village Train Rides
Take a half-mile train ride through the Country Village grounds. Date: 04/01/2008 - 08/31/2008 Time: Mondays, Wednesdays-Thursdays 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fridays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sundays 11:30-5 p.m. Closed Tuesday. Location:Country Village Bothell, Bothell | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $3/person Event Info: 425-210-6688 | Web site
Canoe Mercer Slough
See Mercer Slough Nature Park from low on the water, and find out how this wetland ecosystem works. It's a four-mile paddle, and the trip begins and ends at Enatai Beach Park, 3519 108th Ave. S.E., Bellevue. Pre-registration required. Date: 05/03/2008 - 06/28/2008 Time: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon Location: Other Ages: Ages 5 and up Cost: $12, non-residents $14 Event Info: 425-452-6885 | Web site
Capital City Marathon
It's time to dust off the running shoes! Make a whole weekend of marathon madness. On Saturday, don't miss the Kid's Run on 4 p.m. and the pasta dinner at 5 p.m. On Sunday the full marathon starts at 7 a.m., half-marathon starts at 7:45 a.m. and the five miler starts at 8 a.m. To register, visit the event Web site.
Date: 05/17/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Saturday noon-7:30 p.m.; Sunday 6 a.m.-finish Location:Sylvester Park, Olympia | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Please visit event Web site Event Info:Web site
Paddle the Point
Put your kayaking skills to the test and join the race! You don't have to be a pro however, all ages and experiences welcome. Check-in at 11 a.m., racing from noon-1 p.m. heats are divided by age group and type of craft. Prizes awarded for top finishers, but everyone receives a Paddle the Point t-shirt. Register online. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Other Ages: All ages Cost: Minimum $200 in pledges per boat Event Info: 206-471-5340 | Web site
Tahoma Audubon Discovery Walk
Get to know your outdoors with a guided nature walk in a new location each month. Walks are designed for friends and families of all ages. March: Lower White River; April: Adriana Hess Wetland Park (times for this walk vary); May: Sunrise Beach. Preregistration is required. Call (253) 591-6439 to register and get your directions!
Date: 03/15/2008 - 05/17/2008 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Location:Tahoma Audubon Society, University Place | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $5,members free Event Info: 253-565-9278 | Web site
Kids' Free Shoot
Drop by the community center gym for some kid-only basketball time in the gym Date: 04/05/2008 - 05/17/2008 Time: Saturdays 10 a.m.-noon Location:Magnuson Community Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 206-684-7026 | Web site
Public Swim
Drop by the pool for a swim! Call for special extended lap and public swim times for spring break, April 7-11. Date: 04/07/2008 - 06/21/2008 Time: Mondays-Thursdays 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturdays noon-4 p.m., 4-5 p.m. Location:Julius Boehm Pool, Issaquah | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Family $10 Event Info: 425-837-3350 | Web site
Baby Loves Disco
Local DJ Darek Mazzone spins tunes from the 70s and 80s while toddlers, preschoolers and their parents shake their booties on the dance floor. Kids who don't want to dance can play with baskets of instruments, have a healthful snack and hang out in the chill-out room. Buy tickets online, and don't delay. This event sells out. Heaven, 172 S. Washington St., Seattle. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 1-4 p.m. Ages: Ages 7 and under with parent Cost: All walkers $12 Event Info: 206-622-1863 | Web site
Seattle Family Swims
There's a family swim going on at a Seattle public pool every day of the week. Bring the kids, and remember that everyone under 18 must be accompanied into the pool by an adult. Click on the link for exact times -- which can change -- plus holiday, maintenance and swim meet closures. Mondays: Medger Evers. Tuesdays: Ballard, Madison, Meadowbrook, Medger Evers. Wednesdays: Medger Evers. Thursdays: Madison, Meadowbrook, Medger Evers. Fridays: Madison, Southwest. Saturdays: Evans, Meadowbrook, Medger Evers. Sundays: Ballard, Madison, Rainier Beach ($2), Southwest. Date: 09/03/2007 - 06/17/2008 Time: Times vary Ages: All ages Cost: $2.75-$3.75 Event Info:Web site
Tiny Tots Skate
Bring your new roller skater to the rink without fear of being run over by more experienced skaters. On Saturday mornings, the rink is reserved for kids 10 and under with their parents. As this is an ongoing event and the schedule is subject to change without notice, we recommend calling ahead or checking the venue's Web site before dropping by. Date: 09/08/2007 - 06/28/2008 Time: Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Location:Bellevue Skate King, Bellevue | Map It Ages: Ages 10 and under with parent Cost: Admission $5, skate rental free. Blade rental $4. Event Info: 425-641-2047 | Web site
Indoor Play
Meadowbrook Play Gym
Kids get the run of the gym, and mats, balls and trikes to play on. Your own clean riding toy is also welcome. Date: 01/01/2008 - 06/17/2008 Time: Mondays, Fridays 1-3 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Location:Meadowbrook Community Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: Ages 5 and under Cost: $2 Event Info: 206-684-7522 | Web site
Toddler Playroom
A room set up for toddler and infant play. As of April 1, only punch cards ($10/5 drop ins) will be accepted for the program. Date: 01/09/2007 - 06/26/2008 - Happens weekly Time: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 1-8:45 p.m.; Tuesdays, Thursdays noon-8:45 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m.-4:45 Location:Miller Community Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: Ages 6 months-5 years Cost: $2; after April 1, $10/5 visits Event Info: 206-684-4753 | Web site
Rav-Eck Indoor Playtimes
Rav-Eck offers long hours and a number of options for families with stir-crazy kids. Play Space, for ages 4 and under, and Tot Gym, for ages 2-5, gives kids an indoor place for kids to play with bikes, ride-ons and educational toys. Hours: Mondays 10:15-6 p.m.; Tuesdays, Thursdays 4:15-7 p.m.; Wednesdays 10:15 a.m.-2 p.m. (Tot Gym only); Fridays 1:15-4 p.m.; Saturdays 10:15-8:30 p.m. (through May 24 only).Hours are subject to change, so check before dropping by. Date: 03/24/2008 - 06/17/2008 Time: See above Location:Ravenna-Eckstein Community Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: Play Space, 4 and under; Tot Gym, ages 2-5 Cost: $2/child/visit Event Info: 206-684-7534 | Web site
Other Great Stuff
Seattle Storm Opening Night
The Storm kicks off its ninth season against the Chicago Sky with top women's players Sheryl Swoopes, Yolanda Griffith, Swin Cash, Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson as the starting five. The first 10,000 people who arrive will snag a limited edition Storm program, and the first 5,000 will also receive a 2008 Storm schedule magnet. The new Storm team and owners will be introduced to the crowd, and Columbia Records artist Brandi Carlile will perform the national anthem. If you bring the kids, stop by the Kids' Corner, where families can have dinner together and the kids can get their faces painted. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 7 p.m. Location:Seattle Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $10-$55 Event Info: 1-877-WNBA-TIX | Web site
Gig Harbor Saturday Farmers Market
Nearly 100 vendors make up the Gig Harbor Farmers Market including carfters, farmers, artisans, and florists. Located at the Kimball Drive Park and Ride, Gig Harbor. Date: 04/05/2008 - 09/27/2008 Time: 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-208-6296 | Web site
Issaquah Farmers Market
Buy fresh fruits and vegetables, gorgeous cut flowers, hand-made arts and crafts, snacks, cooking demos, and weekly entertainment and activities for kids. On April 19, celebrate Earth Day with booths and displays by local environmental groups. At Pickering Barn, Issaquah (exit 17 off I-90, north onto Front St./E. Lake Sammamish Parkway SE), left at SE 56th St, left at 10th Ave NW. On the left across the street from Costco.) Date: 04/12/2008 - 10/11/2008 Time: Saturdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Other Ages: All ages Cost: Free admission Event Info: 425-837-3311 | Web site
Jefferson Park Spraygrounds
Cool down in the summer sun at one of Tacoma's spraygrounds. Jefferson Park, N 9th St. at N Monroe St., Tacoma. Date: 05/03/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: May 3-25 and Sept. 2-28 Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; May 26-Sept 1 Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-305-1000 | Web site
McKinley Playfield Spraygrounds
Cool down in the summer sun at one of Tacoma's spraygrounds. McKinley Playfield, E 44th St. at E McKinley Ave., Tacoma. Date: 05/03/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: May 3-25 and Sept. 2-28 Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; May 26-Sept 1 Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-305-1000 | Web site
Puyallup Main Street Farmers Market
Farm fresh poduce and crafts line the Pioneer Park Pavilion, 330 S. Meridian, Puyallup. Date: 05/03/2008 - 08/31/2008 Time: Saturdays 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-840-2631 | Web site
South Park Spraygrounds
Cool down in the summer sun at one of Tacoma's spraygrounds. South Park, 50th St. at S Puget Sound Ave., Tacoma. Date: 05/03/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: May 3-25 and Sept. 2-28 Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; May 26-Sept 1 Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-305-1000 | Web site
Tug Sand Man Tours
Tour the restored Sand Man tug boat, as legend has it, possibly the first tug boat in the Puget Sound. Date: 05/03/2008 - 09/07/2008 Time: Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Location:Percival Landing, Olympia | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 360-786-9474 | Web site
Wapato Hills Park Spraygrounds
Cool down in the summer sun at one of Tacoma's spraygrounds. Wapato Hills Park, S 64th and Wapato St., Tacoma. Date: 05/03/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: May 3-25 and Sept. 2-28 Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; May 26-Sept 1 Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-305-1000 | Web site
Mercer Island Learning Lab Garage Sale
Submitted by Judy Witmer
A garage sale fundraiser for cooperative preschool with approximately 100 families participating. Includes baby and children's items along with household items. Money raised goes to fund scholarships and program needs. Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club, Mercer Island. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club, , WA | Map It Cost: Free Event Info: 206-232-3493
Parent Learning
Strategies for Summer Safety
Are new friends, relatives, caregivers, camps and surroundings a part of your child's summer? Learn how you can empower your children today. Help them learn to identify and create firm boundaries that will help them to be safe when you cannot be with them. Contact us to find a workshop near you, or to set up a parent workshop to help prepare your children for the new changes that summertime will bring them. P.E.A.C.E of Mind is a non profit dedicated to community outreach. Date: 03/04/2008 - 06/30/2008 Time: Varies Cost: Suggested donation is $5.00 per adult Event Info: 425-591-5795 | Web site | email
Prepared Childbirth Class
Designed for soon-to-be parents who haven't taken previous prepared childbirth classes, this comprehensive course provides valuable information about all aspects of pregnancy, childbirth and beyond. You'll learn about breathing and relaxation techniques, stages of labor and delivery, medications, and anesthetics for labor and delivery, cesarean delivery, caring for yourself after the birth, newborn characteristics, and feeding your new baby. Please bring two pillows, a blanket and your "Little Miracles" prenatal notebook, if you have one, to class. Classes are available weekdays evenings and some Saturdays. Some two-week sessions are also offered. Class size is limited. Online registrants will receive a phone call to confirm their place in class. Held at Good Samaritan Family Birth Center. Date: 03/15/2008 - 06/30/2008 Time: Various Location: 407 14th Ave. S.E., Puyallup, WA | Map It Cost: $85 per couple, medical coupons accepted. Pre-registration required. Payment is due before first class. Event Info: 253-697-5300 | Web site | email
Raising Bilingual Children
Want to raise your child bilingually? Not sure where to start? Afraid of making mistakes? This three-hour seminar will prepare parents, grandparents and other caregivers in the rewarding choice to raise their children in more than one language. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 9:30-12:30 Location:Bellevue Community College North Campus, Bellevue | Map It Cost: $29 Event Info: 425-564-4000 | Web site
Reading Fun
Nature Story Time
This monthly program includes stories and activities that focus on gardens, plants and nature. If you go, leave time for a walk in the adjacent Union Bay Natural Area. Today's theme is "May Flowers." Held in the Elisabeth C. Miller Library located in Merrill Hall. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 10-10:45 a.m. Location:University of Washington Botanic Gardens, Seattle | Map It Ages: Ages 2-7 Cost: Free Event Info: 206-543-0415 | Web site
Children's Story Time
Visit every Saturday for an hour long story time at Borders' Everett location. It's an ongoing event, so check with the store for unexpected schedule changes. Date: 02/04/2006 - 06/28/2008 Time: Saturdays 11 a.m. Location:Borders Everett, Everett | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 425-267-3246 | Web site
Children's Story Time
Read a good book lately? Get your kids excited about reading again as specially selected stories are featured weekly during story time. Date: 02/06/2008 - 06/28/2008 Time: Wednesdays and Saturdays 11 a.m. Location:Borders Puyallup, Puyallup | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-845-8751
Charlie the Noise Guy
Wacky Charlie spruces up fairy tales with funny voices and sound effects too! Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 10:30 a.m. Location:University Place Library, University Place | Map It Ages: Ages 5 and up Cost: Free Event Info: 253-565-9447
Fairy Blossoms
Bring your little fairy down to Children's Bookstore and share story time with author Suzanne Williams as she reads her new book Fairy Blossoms. Then do a make-and-take fairy craft. Costumes encouraged. Children's Bookshop and Teaching Supplies, 225 W. Meeker, Kent. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 1 p.m. Ages: Age 10 and under Cost: Free Event Info: 253-852-0383 | Web site
Science and Nature
Birds of Magnuson Explorer Pack
Go on a Magnuson Park adventure! Drop by the community center during open hours, and pick up an activity pack containing games, park maps, field guides and charts, binocs for adults and kids, and a Magnuson Park activity book (you get to keep the activity book). Date: 03/01/2008 - 06/17/2008 Time: Monday-Wednesday 1-9 p.m.; Thursday, Friday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location:Magnuson Community Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $5 Event Info: 206-684-7026 | Web site
Wolf Haven Guided Tours
Spot a wolf in its natural environment on one of the guided tours through the sanctuary. If you are lucky, you may see wolf pups! Date: 04/28/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sundays noon-3 p.m. Location:Wolf Haven International, Tenino | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Adult $8, student/senior $7, ages 3-12 $6 Event Info: 800-448-9653 | Web site
Willawong Station
Walk through an Australian grasslands habitat that's home to about 150 free-flying birds. Kids are thrilled to observe and feed small, colorful Australian parrots at close range, while learning about the conservation of habitats and endangered wildlife. Date: 05/01/2008 - 08/31/2008 - Happens weekly Time: Open daily, zoo hours Location:Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Zoo admission plus $1, kids 2 and under free Event Info: 206-684-4800 | Web site
Marine Exploration Weekend
Explore the fascinating world of whales and other marine life PacSci: check out orca and fish bones, learn about restoration of coastal areas, and touch creatures in the tidepool. Date: 05/16/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Location:Pacific Science Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with admission Event Info: 206-443-2001 | Web site
Family Bird Walk
Ever wanted to learn to bird with the kids? Now's the time. Celebrate Seattle Audubon's annual Birdathon with a family bird walk where you'll learn how to handle your binoculars and field guide, and to identify some common local birds by sight and sound. Meet at the front patio in the Graham Visitor Center, Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Drive E., Seattle. Register in advance by calling the arboretum. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 9-11 a.m. Ages: Ages 5 and up Cost: $30/family (up to four members) Event Info: 206-523-8843 | Web site | email
Family Lake Washington Walk
Meet at St. Edwards beach for a two-hour walk along the lakeshore. You'll use nets to search for the aquatic critters who live along the shore. It's free, but call to register in advance. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 1 p.m. Location:St. Edward State Park, Kenmore | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 425-489-8549 | Web site
Owl Prowl Party!
Submitted by Christopher Millow
Do you know that the great horned owl weighs only three pounds? Seward Park Owl Prowl activities include family lessons on owls, children’s book readings and games, and owl pellet dissections. Learn about these amazing nocturnal predators, their habitats, behaviors and language. Party activities are free and open to the public. From 8-9 p.m., join us on a hike deep into the forest to call down the resident barred owls. This companion program to the Owl Prowl Party is a great opportunity to have a safe and exciting night hike in the forest and to learn how to “speak” owl. This walk has a difficulty level of moderate and will be about one mile in length. Please bring flashlights but we ask that you refrain from using them as much as possible. Please RSVP to lmorton@audubon.org. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Location:Seward Park, Seattle | Map It Cost: Party activities free. Owl walk $2-$4, ages 4 and under free Event Info: 206-652-2444 | Web site | email
The Open Forest
Take a walk through the park and learn about its history, conservation efforts and what you can do to keep the forest in good shape for the future. Meet at the Environmental Learning Center. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 12:30 p.m. Location:Carkeek Environmental Education Center, Seattle | Map It Event Info: 206-684-0877 | Web site
Wetland Walk-About
Submitted by Kristin Hart
Join the Mercer Island Parks and Recreation staff for a walk in the weltlands. Families welcome, meet-up information provided when you call to register. Date: 05/17/2008 Time: 1-2:00 p.m. Location:Mercer Island Community Center, Mercer Island | Map It Cost: $11/child and parent, $5/sibling Event Info: 206-275-7609
Shows, Music, Dance
The Diary of Anne Frank
Intiman Theatre's new season kicks off with the Pulitzer prize-winning story of a girl who faces tremendous adversity with self-possession and optimism. There's are two ASL-interpreted performances on April 26, and a pay-what-you-can performance on March 27. Date: 03/21/2008 - 05/17/2008 Time: Tuesdays-Thursdays 7:30 p.m.; Fridays 8 p.m.; Saturdays 2 p.m., 8 p.m.; Sunday times vary Location:Intiman Theatre, Seattle | Map It Ages: Ages 12 and up Cost: $10-$50 Event Info: 206-269-1900 | Web site
Corteo
Pulsing, ethnic-sounding music; inspired, oh-wow acrobatics; and European-style clowning are hallmarks of Cirque du Soleil’s shows, and you can see what all the fuss is about this month as the company sets up in Marymoor Park again. Corteo— a sort of clown-imagined processional, plays in the circus' yellow and blue big top, known as the "Grand Chapiteau." The show lasts 2 hours, 30 minutes, and includes an intermission. 6046 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway N.E., Redmond. Date: 04/24/2008 - 05/25/2008 Time: Tuesday, Wednesday 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday 4 p.m., 8 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m., 5 p.m. Location: Other Ages: Ages 5 and up Cost: $38.50-$90 Event Info:Web site
Busytown
SCT's final offering of the season is a world premiere musical, directed by Artistic Director Linda Hartzell and based on the Richard Scarry book What Do People Do All Day? Huckle Cat takes a tour of his neighborhood and meets an interesting cast of characters that illustrate how many different people and jobs it takes to keep things running. Family matinee, May 3; family date-night dinner, May 16; ASL-interpreted show, May 17, 2 p.m.; Date: 04/25/2008 - 06/15/2008 Time: Fridays 7 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m. Location:Seattle Children's Theatre, Seattle | Map It Ages: Ages 4 and up Cost: $17-$33 Event Info: 206-441-3322 | Web site
Aladdin and the Magic Lamp
Aladdin finds a magic lamp and unleashes a genie in SPROUTS Children's Theatre's comic musical adaptation of the classic story. Kids under 3 aren't admitted except to the Small Sibling Sunday shows, May 4 and 11, 1 p.m. Date: 05/02/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Fridays 7 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays 1 p.m., 3 p.m.
Location:SecondStory Repertory, Redmond | Map It Ages: Ages 4-12 Cost: $8.75 Event Info: 425-881-6777 | Web site
Little Women
A new musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's book about the March girls -- Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth -- as they struggle with their mother Marmee during war and loss, with a score by Richard Rodgers. Date: 05/02/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Wednesdays-Fridays 8 p.m.; Saturdays 2 p.m., 8 p.m.; Sundays 2 p.m., 7 p.m. Location:Everett Performing Arts Center, Everett | Map It Ages: Elementary age and up Cost: $15-$48 Event Info: 425-257-8600 | Web site
Broadway and Beyond at SPSCC
The dinner theater is back! Theater students display their talents through a mix of Broadway performances and dinner is prepared by students from the Culinary Arts Program. Bring your sweetheart or bring the family.
Date: 05/15/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Location:Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts, Olympia | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $30, students $10 Event Info: 360-596-5501 | Web site
Giselle
Soloists from the St. Petersburg State Academic Theatre of Ballet perform the ballet about love 'n' tragedy alongside performers from International Ballet Theatre. Date: 05/15/2008 - 05/18/2008 Time: Thursday, Friday 7:30 p.m.; Saturday 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.
Location:Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Adult $45, student/senior $35, ages 12 and under $20 Event Info: 425-284-0444 | Web site
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