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
Good Dog Carl Book Signing
Meet the author of the "Good Dog, Carl" books as well as Carl himself! Alexandra Day will sign her latest title, Carl Goes to Summer Camp, and Carl will be on hand to do tricks and pose for pics with the kids. (There's a new children's park across the street from the store, too.) The Original Children's Shop, 4215 E. Madison St., Seattle. Date: 06/07/2008 Time: 1-4 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 206-328-7121
Fraser Cabin Heritage Program
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: 06/21/2008 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
Exhibitions
Olympic Airshow
Marvel at the wonders of flight aerobatics, see the Uso show, aviation memoribilia and add-on the Bomber tour! All located at the Olympia Regional Airport. Date: 06/14/2008 - 06/15/2008 Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Location:Olympic Flight Museum, Olympia | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $10, 6 and under free Event Info: 360-705-3925 | Web site
Mutts Off Main
Come to watch the contests or Mutt Parade at high noon or enter your own mutt in the agility course or dashing doxie race. There will be a fashion show, food and entertainment, doggie vendors, photos, grooming services and more!
Date: 07/12/2008 Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Location:Heritage Park, Sumner | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free to spectators, $5 per entry Event Info: 253-299-5520 | 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
Northwest Folklife Festival
There' s music everywhere at the annual Memorial Weekend folk and traditional music blowout, from scheduled performances to impromptu jam sessions on the sidewalks. Visitors with kids should check out the Folklife Commons, where kids can dabble in clay animation or a science activity or make a puppets and a batik flag. Date: 05/23/2008 - 05/26/2008 Time: Daily, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Location:Seattle Center, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Suggested donation $5/person/day Event Info: 206-684-7200 | Web site
Petpalooza
It's a festival just for pets complete with mainstage entertainment, vendor booths, contests, a fun run and even a petting zoo! Kick off the event by entering your furry friend in the Dog Trot - a pet/owner 3K fun run. Don't miss Valentine's Perfirming Pigs, The Parrot Lady and more entertainment!
Date: 05/31/2008 Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location:Game Farm Park, Auburn | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-931-3043 | Web site
Pike Place Market Street Festival
The market's annual benefit fair features the usual music and food, arts and crafts and fun for the kids in the Kids Zone (zucchini races, fish and vegetable paining, a bounce house and more!) and other activities. Click on the link for a music and event schedule. Date: 05/31/2008 - 06/01/2008 Time: Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Kids' Zone Saturday, Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Location:Pike Place Market, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Pirate Party
Ar! Celebrate the launch of Kirkland's "summer-long adventure," Sail the Seven Seas, with pirate rockers Captain Bogg & Salty and free hot dogs! Pick up a treasure map at the party (or at www.kirklandparks.net, course code 23223), and visit summer concerts, local businesses and parks in search of family activities and prizes. When you've completed you've completed your map, you get treasure to keep! Date: 05/31/2008 Time: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Location:North Kirkland Community Center, Kirkland | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 425-587-3350 | Web site
Carnival for the Rain Forest
Submitted by zoey pressey
An event created and staffed by children (with adult supervision) for children. The entire carnival set up, including signs, booths, baked goods and the puppet show are created by the kids. Even the prizes have been donated by children. This low-key carnival is a fundraiser for the Rain Forest Alliance and is perfect for children ages 1-6. All proceeds from tickets will go directly to the Rain Forest Alliance. Rain or shine, come join us at the picnic area in the trees by the tennis courts at Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island. Date: 06/01/2008 Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location:Luther Burbank Park, Mercer Island | Map It Ages: Ages 1-6 Cost: $5 covers tickets for all booths including a cookie and lemonade. Event Info: 206-769-7662
Maritime Gig Festival
Start your Saturdayout with a pancake breakfast,(8 a.m. at the QFC shopping center on Judson Street), line up to see the parade (10 a.m. along Harborview Drive) and regatta (noon, Gig Harbor Bay) and enjoy lots of kids' activities, including a fishing pond, bouncy house and entertainment (Skanskie Brothers Park, noon-5:30 p.m.). Activities take place in downtown Gig Harbor along Harborview Drive, between Pioneer and Rosedale, and along the waterfront near Jerisich Dock and Skansie Brothers Park. Date: 06/07/2008 - 06/08/2008 Time: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Most activities free Event Info: 253-851-6865 | Web site
Midsummer Festival
Vasa Park's annual Scandinavian family celebration, now in its 82nd year (and held right in time for Father's Day) includes a parade of a costumed folk dancers and musicians, folk dancing around a midsummer pole (12:30 p.m.), Scandivian crafts and food. Kids can ride ponies (11 a.m.-1 p.m., free) and have their faces painted for free throughout the day, plus enjoy races and games from 3 p.m. forward. The playground, swimming beach and waterslides will be open all day, and a Swedish pancake breakfast will be served from 9 a.m.-noon ($6). On the shores of Lake Sammamish, 3260 W. Lk. Sammamish Parkway S.E., Bellevue. Date: 06/15/2008 Time: Opens 9 a.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free admission. Pancake breakfast $6. Event Info: 425-746-3260 | Web site
Auburn Kids' Day
Come out for kids' activities that include inflatables and arts and crafts, large trucks and tractors, a resource fair and concessions. Game Farm Park, 3030 R St. S.E., Auburn. Date: 06/20/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Location: Other Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-804-5042 | Web site
Slug Fest
Learn about the slimy slugs that call the Northwest home. Participate in slug school, slug bingo, the slug scavenger hunt, human slug races and more. Date: 06/21/2008 - 06/22/2008 Time: During park hours Location:Northwest Trek, Eatonville | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free with admission Event Info: 360-832-6117 | Web site
Summerfest 2008
Summers coming and it's time to celebrate with live music, over 100 vendors, a Kids Zone ($5 admission), a soccer and golf tournament, a fun run, r/c boat demos, pony rides, dog agility demos and more. The day ends with a showing of Bee Movie, part of the Comcast Outdoor Cinema Movies at dark. It's all happening at Fort Steilacoom Park, Steilacoom Blvd. S.W., Lakewood.
Date: 06/21/2008 Time: Noon Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 253-589-2489 | Web site
Taste of Tacoma
Tacoma's "ultimate family picnic" at Point Defiance Park features tastes from local restaurants, entertainment and kids' activities. Parking is available for $10 per car, or click on the link for transit information. Date: 06/27/2008 - 06/29/2008 Time: Friday, Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Ages: All ages Cost: Free admission. Tastes up to $6. Event Info:Web site
Cowboy Rendezvous
Celebrate the Western lifestyle at the Greenway Days celebration in Cle Elum. On Saturday, check out the horse pull competition at 1:30 p.m. and stay for an evening cookout with a sing-along and bonfire. Sunday is Children's Day, with a mutton-busting competition at 1 p.m. Cowboy crafts and wagon rides are on the schedule for both days. Downtown Cle Elum, Exit 84 off I-90. Exit 84 turns into First Street. Go down the hill through the first stoplight, and look for the tents on the right. Date: 06/28/2008 - 06/29/2008 Time: Saturday 10 a.m.-dark, Sunday mutton-busting competition at 1 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Fenders on Front Street
Take a look at cool cars parked along Front Street in Issaquah and groove to tunes by the Kaleidoscope School of Music (9 a.m.-2 p.m.), The Astro Cats (10:30-11:30 a.m.) and others, and watch cars cruise front street at 4 p.m. It's part of the annual Mountains to Sound Greenway Days. Date: 06/29/2008 Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Midsommarfest
Folk music and dance by costumed performers, flower crown-making and a pole raising are the highlights of this annual (the 50th!) Swedish summer celebration. Newbies can take a mini-dance lesson (and look online for answers to all your pressing Midsommarfest questions), and there are activities for the kids and food and crafts booths. Date: 06/29/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Location:St. Edward State Park, Kenmore | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
6th Annual Vashon Lavender Farm Tour
Submitted by Dee Simon
Celebrate the joy of lavender! Live music, Northwest food enhanced by lavender and a relaxing atmosphere make this a fun weekend destination. Workshops include how to make a lavender wreath, cooking with lavender, the many uses of lavender in the home and more. Children will have fun with face painting and crafts. Purchase plants for your home garden, wander the fields and pick your own fresh cut lavender. Award-winning Northwest artists share their work in the new Gallery in the field. Visitors arriving on bicycles will get a safe place to lock-up and a free gift. Proceeds benefit the Vashon Youth Council. Fox Farm, 17232 107th S.W., Vashon Island. Date: 07/19/2008 - 07/20/2008 Time: Saturday, Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $5, children free Event Info: 206-408-7126 | Web site | email
Wedgwood Art Festival
Submitted by Sarah Bak
The third annual Wedgwood Art Festival features free children's art activities and performances by area musicians. There will also be local artists and craftspeople selling and talking about their work. Come on out and meet your artist neighbors! Held in the Homestreet Bank parking lot, 35th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 84th Street, Seattle. Date: 07/19/2008 Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 206-523-8496 | Web site | email
Bellevue Arts Museum ArtsFair
The 62nd annual crafts fair in Bellevue features juried fine crafts booths, live entertainment and performers, and an excellent Kidsfair, where children can create crafts of their own. The main fair takes place in the parking lot at Bellevue Square, while the Kidsfair is held at the Bellevue Arts Museum. Admission to the museum is free during the fair. Date: 07/25/2008 - 07/27/2008 Time: Friday, Saturday 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sunday 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Kidsfair runs 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location:Bellevue Square, Bellevue | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free admission Event Info: 425-519-0770 | Web site
Bainbridge Bluegrass Festival and Family Fun Fair
A one-day family music festival and fundraiser for the historic Transmitter Building in the park. Bluegrass music and family fun fair includes children's games, merchant booths and a bonus stage with special music for children. The park also has a walking trail, duck pond and the popular KidsUp! Playground. Located at Battle Point Park, 11299 Arrow Point Drive N.E. Date: 07/26/2008 Time: Noon-8 p.m. Ages: All ages Event Info:Web site
Old Mill Days
For three days the Victorian town of Port Gamble will be alive with carnival rides, fireworks, live music and dancers, a lumberjack competition, vendors and more food than a person can eat. Bring the whole family and Port Gamble Bay and Hood Canal Bridge from the top of the giant Ferris wheel. Date: 09/26/2008 - 09/28/2008 Time: Friday 4-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. 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
Films4Families
The sprawling Seattle International Film Festival screens about one ka-jillion films, most of them for adults, but it does throw the non-childless a bone with the all-ages Films4Families matinee series. View an inexpensive, kid-friendly film on Saturdays and/or Sundays, at various venues around town, during the duration of the festival. For the most up-to-date schedule, visit SIFF's Web site, choose "The Festival" from the menu at the top of the homepage, and browse the film programs in the right-hand sidebar. Date: 05/24/2008 - 06/15/2008 Time: Saturdays, Sundays 11 a.m. Ages: Ages vary Event Info: 206-324-9996 | Web site
Free Family Film Festival
Throughout the summer, visit Regal movie theaters throughout the region and catch a G-rated movie on Tuesdays, a PG-rated movie on Wednesdays. Get tickets at the box office the day of the show. Click on the link for an updated schedule and participating theaters. Date: 06/24/2008 - 08/27/2008 Time: Tuesdays, Wednesdays 10 a.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Get Moving
Stroller Strides
Meet other moms and get in shape at the same time -- with your baby in tow. The class features intervals of cardio workouts and body-toning exercises using your stroller and resistance tubes. All levels of fitness are welcome, and you don't have to preregister. Drop by with your baby and stroller, water bottle, and towel or exercise mat. Held on Court 1 in the community center. Date: 03/05/2008 - 06/04/2008 Time: Mondays-Fridays 9-9:50 a.m. Location:Issaquah Community Center, Issaquah | Map It Ages: Caregivers and tots in strollers Cost: First class free, single classes $16.32 Event Info: 425-837-3300 | Web site
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
Kids' Rock Climbing
In this ongoing class, kids learn how to stay safe and get lots of time in on the Pinnacle. The lcass is open to kids of all abilities. Call to register in advance. REI, 222 Yale Ave. N., Seattle. Date: 04/06/2008 - 06/29/2008 Time: Sundays 5:30 p.m. Ages: Ages 8-14 Cost: $15, non-members $30 Event Info: 206-223-1944 | 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
Public Pony Rides
Ride the ponies at Kelsey Creek Farm! Weight limit: 100 lbs., and don't be late -- the line closes promptly at 11:30 a.m. Dates are May 8 and 22. Date: 05/08/2008 - 05/22/2008 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Location:Kelsey Creek Farm Park, Bellevue | Map It Ages: Ages 3 and up Cost: $3/ride Event Info: 425-452-7688 | 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
Bicycle Sunday -- Opening Day
Break out the bikes, tandems, trailers and training wheels! Four miles of Lake Washington Boulevard, between Seward Park and Mount Baker Beach, are closed to traffic on selected Saturdays and Sundays during the summer. (The loop road in Seward Park can add two more miles to your trek.) Pack a picnic lunch and join the crowds for a leisurely pedal along one of Seattle's most scenic roads. If your clan needs it, you'll find plenty of places to stop along the way for a break, including a children's playground near the entrance of the park. Click on the link for a map of the area. Date: 05/18/2008 Time: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Location:Seward Park, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 206-684-4075 | Web site
Issaquah Alps Family Library Hike
Gather in the library's meeting room and carpool to Pickering Barn in Issaquah, then wander along Issaquah Creek looking for wildlife. The flat three-hour hike will be led by experienced guides. Bring sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring along a pack containing food and water. Kids under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Dave Kappler with questions. Date: 05/18/2008 Time: 1 p.m. Location:Issaquah Library, Issaquah | Map It Ages: All ages Event Info: 425-392-3571
National Aquatics Week
Celebrate with family friendly activities that include a "Spring Fling" public swim (Wednesday, 1:30-2:30 p.m.) and "Red, White and Blue" public swim (Saturday, 3:30-4:30 p.m.). Date: 05/21/2008 - 05/24/2008 Time: Times vary--see above Location:Evans Pool, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Cost varies--see above Event Info: 206-684-4961 | Web site
Remlinger Farms Country Fair
The Country Fair features rides, the steam train, baby animals, musical performance by Eric Ode and a hay maze -- and it's open for Memorial Day (weekends only through June, usually). Date: 05/26/2008 Time: 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
Holiday Skate Session
An all-day skate session! The arena advises that the schedule is subject to change without notice, so call to confirm before dropping by. Date: 05/28/2008 Time: 9:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Location:Highland Ice Arena, Shoreline | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $6, ages 6-12 $5.50, skate rental $3 Event Info: 206-546-2431 | Web site
Friday Night Square Dance
Live old-time fiddle music and a caller to keep you on track; a family friendly setting and a great neighborhood -- it's all there at the monthly Friday Night Square Dance. Wear comfy clothes and shoes; no need to dress up. Lakewood/Seward Park Community Clubhouse, corner of 50th Avenue South and South Angeline Street in Columbia City. Date: 05/30/2008 Time: 8-11 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $6, students/ages 6 and up $3, family/household $15 Event Info:Web site
Meeker Olympiad
Put your triathalon team together for a competition of stately games -- badminton, horseshoes and croquet. Prizes will be awarded to the top teams! Date: 05/31/2008 Time: 10 a.m. Location:Meeker Mansion, Puyallup | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $10 per team Event Info: 253-848-1770 | Web site
North Cascades Annual Picnic
Want to check out the North Cascades Learning Center? It's a beautiful campus nestled in the North Cascades on the shores of Diablo Lake, about a three-hour drive north of Seattle. The institute's annual picnic gives you a chance to meet the folks in charge, listen to music from the Skagit Swings Big Band, enjoy a free picnic barbecue and do hands-on art activities with the kids. You can also take a hike through pristine forest with a park ranger, and paddle Diablo Lake in a huge canoe. It's all good. Call to RSVP. Date: 05/31/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Location:North Cascades Institute Environmental Learning Center, Sedro-Woolley | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info: 360-856-5700, Ext. 209 | Web site
Family Fun Night
Pack up the family for an evening of active fun that includes playing with the kids on the Kids Gym equipment and a dip in the pool. Date: 06/06/2008 Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Location:West Seattle Family YMCA, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Members free, non-members $2 Event Info: 206-935-6000 | Web site
Duck Dash and Food & Fun Fair
Buy a duck, sell a duck then drop it in the Deschutes River to see which rubber ducky makes it down the rapids first! Prizes awarded for first trough twelfth place finishes. Contact the Lacey Rotary to order tickets. Event held at Tumwater Falls Park. Date: 06/07/2008 Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: TBD Event Info:Web site | email
Letterboxing for Kids
Use clues to find hidden boxes, called letterboxes, located along the nature trails at the park. Letterboxes are small, weatherproof boxes that usually contain a logbook and rubber stamp, which finders can use to stamp the logbook in the box as well as their own. Bring a blank journal, rubber stamp and pen or pencil. Preregister. Date: 06/07/2008 Time: 2-4 p.m. Location:Farrel-McWhirter Park, Redmond | Map It Ages: Ages 4-12 Cost: Redmond residents $33, non-residents $40 Event Info: 425-556-2300 | Web site
National Trails Day
The American Hiking Association's 16th annual celebration of the nation's 200,000 miles of trails includes plenty of events in Washington. Clean up and restore trails at work parties in Tacoma, Olympia, Kent, Maple Valley and other areas. Click on the link for event locations and details. Date: 06/07/2008 Time: Event times vary Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
North Cascades Institute Day Trips
Join a naturalist from the North Cascades Institute, located in the North Cascades National Park, for a slow-paced forest hike -- or take a two-hour canoe paddle on gorgeous emerald-green Diablo Lake (kids must be over 6 years old). Bring food, water, appropriate clothing and other gear. No pre-registration required, and all activities are first-come, first-served. Canoe trips launch at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., and hikes leave at 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Note: No day trips on June 28, July 5 and 26, August 16 and 30. Date: 06/07/2008 - 09/13/2008 Time: Saturdays, doors open for sign-ups at 8:30 a.m. Field trip times above. Location:North Cascades Institute Environmental Learning Center, Sedro-Woolley | Map It Ages: Canoe trips ages 6 and up. Hikers must be able to walk over uneven terrain. Cost: Free Event Info: 360-856-5700, Ext. 209 | Web site
Spokespeople Bike Rides
On the first Saturday of every month, take a bike ride between neighborhood centers, starting at the Wallingford Playfield in Seattle. Kiddos over 1 are welcome -- they get a special one-hour introduction to safe road biking at the south end of the playfield (adults newbies are welcome, too). Bring your helmet and spruced-up bike -- brakes, handlebars, tires in good working order -- for a short ride from the playfield to Meridian Park. No helmet? Buy one onsite. (PS: Kids under 1 don't have the neck muscles to support helmets, and according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they shouldn't ride in a trailer or bike seat, so Spokespeople requests that all kids be over 1 year of age.) 4219 Wallingford Ave. N., Seattle. Date: 06/07/2008 Time: 2-4 p.m. Ages: Ages 1 and up. Ages 9 and up for road biking. Cost: Free Event Info: 206-547-9569 | Web site
Sound to Narrows
Take part in this South Sound tradition. Go the distance in the 12k or sign-up for the shorter 5k. Kids can stretch their legs in the 2k Junior Shuffle or the Diaper Dash for ages 3 and under. All races start at Vassault Park at North Vassault and North 37th St. in Tacoma. Date: 06/14/2008 Time: 6:35 a.m. Ages: All ages Cost: $26 per person, free 10 and under Event Info:Web site
SKIPP - Summer Kids In Parks Program
Drop-in at two of Olympia's popular playgrounds for structured play and activities supervised by Olympia Parks and Recreation staff. Parents are required to complete an emergency information form the first time they drop-off. Participating parks include Woodruff Park and Lions Park. Lunch and an afternoon snack included! Date: 06/23/2008 - 08/15/2008 Time: Monday-Friday noon-3 p.m. Ages: Ages 6-12 Cost: Free
Friday Night Square Dance
Live old-time fiddle music and a caller to keep you on track; a family friendly setting and a great neighborhood -- it's all there at the monthly Friday Night Square Dance. Wear comfy clothes and shoes; no need to dress up. Lakewood/Seward Park Community Clubhouse, corner of 50th Avenue South and South Angeline Street in Columbia City. Date: 06/27/2008 Time: Fourth Fridays, 8-11 p.m. Ages: All ages Cost: Adults $6, students/ages 6 and up $3, family/household $15 Event Info:Web site
Greenway Days
Celebrate the 5th annual Greenway Days, a celebration of the 100-mile Mountains to Sound Greenway that stretches from Mercer Island to Thorp. We've listed many of the events on our calendar (search keyword "Greenway"), but there are plenty of other opportunities to get outdoors during the event. Click on the link for an updated event list, which includes hikes, geoteaming and tours. Date: 06/28/2008 - 06/29/2008 - Happens daily on Saturday, Sunday Time: Times vary Ages: Ages vary Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Natural History Orienteering Adventure
Learn the sport of orienteering in a non-competitive, all-ages course through Lewis Creek Park. Instruction and equipment will be provided from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on both days. It's part of the annual Mountains to Sound Greenway Days festival. Date: 06/28/2008 - 06/29/2008 - Happens daily on Saturday, Sunday Time: Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location:Lewis Creek Park Visitor Center, Bellevue | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Free Event Info:Web site
Tour de Pierce Bike Ride
This family summer bicycle ride winds you through central Pierce Country for fitness, fun and bicycle awareness and safety. The ride begins at the Gold parking lot of the Western Washington Fairgrounds and continues on a 12, 30 or 50-mile route. Pre-registration is required by June 18. Date: 06/29/2008 Time: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Location:Western Washington Fairgrounds, Puyallup | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: $12 per person, $30 per family of four Event Info: 253-798-4739 | Web site
Spokespeople Bike Rides
On the first Saturday of every month, take a bike ride between neighborhood centers, starting at the Wallingford Playfield in Seattle. Kiddos over 1 are welcome -- they get a special one-hour introduction to safe road biking at the south end of the playfield (adults newbies are welcome, too). Bring your helmet and spruced-up bike -- brakes, handlebars, tires in good working order -- for a short ride from the playfield to Meridian Park. No helmet? Buy one onsite. (PS: Kids under 1 don't have the neck muscles to support helmets, and according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they shouldn't ride in a trailer or bike seat, so Spokespeople requests that all kids be over 1 year of age.) 4219 Wallingford Ave. N., Seattle. Date: 07/05/2008 Time: 2-4 p.m. Ages: Ages 1 and up. Ages 9 and up for road biking. Cost: Free Event Info: 206-547-9569 | Web site
Letterboxing for Kids
Use clues to find hidden boxes, called letterboxes, located along the nature trails at the park. Letterboxes are small, weatherproof boxes that usually contain a logbook and rubber stamp, which finders can use to stamp the logbook in the box as well as their own. Bring a blank journal, rubber stamp and pen or pencil. Preregister. Date: 07/19/2008 Time: 1-3 p.m. Location:Farrel-McWhirter Park, Redmond | Map It Ages: Ages 4-13 Cost: Redmond residents $33, non-residents $40 Event Info: 425-556-2300 | Web site
DancePlay Family Dance
Bring the whole family for an evening of dancing -- hang out in a dance activity room (parachute play, instruments, group dances and other creative movement fun) or repair to another room to shake your booties freestyle to family-friendly pop and adult-friendly kid music. There's storytime, too, and pizza from 6:30-7 p.m. Date: 07/26/2008 Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Location:Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center, Redmond | Map It Ages: All ages, but especially for families with kids ages 2-9 Cost: Redmond residents $9, non-residents $10 Event Info: 425-556-2300 | Web site
Family Fun Night
Pack up the family for an evening of active fun that includes playing with the kids on the Kids Gym equipment and a dip in the pool. Date: 08/01/2008 Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Location:West Seattle Family YMCA, Seattle | Map It Ages: All ages Cost: Members free, non-members $2 Event Info: 206-935-6000 | Web site
Spokespeople Bike Rides
On the first Saturday of every month, take a bike ride between neighborhood centers, starting at the Wallingford Playfield in Seattle. Kiddos over 1 are welcome -- they get a special one-hour introduction to safe road biking at the south end of the playfield (adults newbies are welcome, too). Bring your helmet and spruced-up bike -- brakes, handlebars, tires in good working order -- for a short ride from the playfield to Meridian Park. No helmet? Buy one onsite. (PS: Kids under 1 don't have the neck muscles to support helmets, and according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they shouldn't ride in a trailer or bike seat, so Spokespeople requests that all kids be over 1 year of age.) 4219 Wallingford Ave. N., Seattle. Date: 08/02/2008 Time: 2-4 p.m. Ages: Ages 1 and up. Ages 9 and up for road biking. Cost: Free Event Info: 206-547-9569 |
Calendar 
