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South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar for October 19th and 20th

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Hey, all! I apologize that the list is up so late. It’s always my goal to have it out on Thursday to email subscribers and up early Friday morning for the straight-to-the-site folks. This weekend we had issues with our hosting company and also just…..life. Anyway, here’s a quick round up for some spontaneous, weekend fun, with lots of indoor options!

If you want to go to the pumpkin patch anyway, here’s our big list of options. Do wear those boots!  Read on for more ideas!

South King County

JBF Sale in Federal Way runs the 17th-20th Score a bargain on gently used kids’ gear and duds. 50-90% Off Retail
FRI 10a-7p
SAT 10a-7p
SUN 8a-2p

Location: Vacant OFFICE MAX-Near PetSmart 31811 Pacific Hwy S., Federal Way 98003

Fall Foliage Festival at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden and Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way.  Free admission; plant sales and tours, kids’ activities, and food trucks are advertised. Also Sunday.

Salmon spotting on the Cedar River Trained naturalists will help kids spot salmon returning to spawn

History Kids White River Valley Museum

Special Pop-up Exhibit: History Kids Clubhouse See–Play–Do at the White River Valley Museum this fall! October 9 – November 10
History Kids Clubhouse is a hands-on exhibit for kids and families to explore and share their own stories while learning about people and objects that tell the history of the White River Valley. Games, photo ops, and more fun. Also Sunday. The Clubhouse is included with regular Museum admission.

Wild Waves Fright Fest-Wild Waves is now doing a daytime, “Family friendly,” event in addition to their scary evenings that are not for kids.

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Greater Pierce County

Carnival for a cause at South Hill Mall

Join South Hill Mall and Spirit 105.3 for The “Nobody Does Fall Better” Carnival for a Cause! Bring your kids out to have some fun, while learning about different non-profit organizations in the area! ? Visit every vendor for your chance to win a $25 South Hill Mall Gift Card! Be sure to stop by the registration table for your “boo bag” and vendor passport! Boo bags given to 1st 100 kids in attendance! Carnival Games, Face Painting, Bouncy House, Halloween Costume Contest and More!

Mask Making  at the Fife Library  3:30pm – 5:00pm Make spooky or colorful masks with fun, mixed, recycled materials! Led by Tinkertopia™. All supplies provided.

The Secret Garden at ManeStage 

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the 27th

Hoot n Howl at Northwest Trek 

Bring the whole family and take a spooky starlit tram ride through the Free-Roaming Area – look out for the famous Ghost Tram!
Come in costume and play games, visit treat stations for candy. (Adults, please leave full face masks at home.) Now on TWO October weekends: Oct. 11-12 and 18-19

Tacoma

Spookley The Square Pumpkin The Musical at TMP Family Theater 

TMP Family Theater
11 AM and 2 PM Saturday and 2PM Sunday | $15 Adults | $13 senior, students, military | $12 Children (12 and under) | $10 groups of 10 or more Buy tickets here

Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the Pick of the Patch.

Spooky Storytime at the Seymour Conservatory

Kings Books will be bringing a Spooky Story Time to the Conservatory with Tacoma members of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan! They’ll be reading picture books with slightly spooky stories such as Los Gatos Black on Halloween, Creepy Pair of Underwear!, and Leo: A Ghost Story. Story time is geared for ages 6 and under, but everyone who likes to be read to (so, everyone) is welcome. 1PM

Suggested donation $3.

Last day of the Rhea Lana consignment event. Many items half off today (Saturday).

Harvest Fest at Eastside Community Center 6:30-9PM

Free Astronomy Event

with TAS at Pierce College Lakewood. Note that this is an evening event and outside viewing is weather dependent.

The Tacoma Holiday Food and Gift show is going on. I honestly don’t know how kid friendly this is. If you do, let us know!

Bass Pro Shops are doing a free Halloween event Saturday and Sunday. I can’t get the page to load, but you might want to pop in.

Olympia/Dupont

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

Read to a Dog at the Dupont Library 1-2pm
Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills.

Sunday

JBF Sale in Federal Way runs the 17th-20th Score a bargain on gently used kids’ gear and duds. 50-90% Off Retail
FRI 10a-7p
SAT 10a-7p
SUN 8a-2p

Location: Vacant OFFICE MAX-Near PetSmart 31811 Pacific Hwy S., Federal Way 98003

Fall Foliage Festival at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden and Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way.  Free admission; plant sales and tours, kids’ activities, and food trucks are advertised. Also Sunday.

The Secret Garden at ManeStage 

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the 27th

Spookley The Square Pumpkin The Musical at TMP Family Theater 

TMP Family Theater
11 AM and 2 PM Saturday and 2PM Sunday | $15 Adults | $13 senior, students, military | $12 Children (12 and under) | $10 groups of 10 or more Buy tickets here

Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the Pick of the Patch.

The Tacoma Holiday Food and Gift show is going on. I honestly don’t know how kid friendly this is. If you do, let us know!

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

Bass Pro Shops are doing a free Halloween event Saturday and Sunday. I can’t get the page to load, but you might want to pop in.

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do Saturday October 12th and Sunday October 13th

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Saturday

All Over

Story time at Barnes and Noble  Story time featuring Elbow Grease vs. Motozilla at 11am at most locations. You may want to call yours to confirm.

South King County

Salmon spotting on the Cedar River Trained naturalists will help kids spot salmon returning to spawn

Fire Safety Day at the Kent Library 11am-12:30pm Ages 3 and older with adult.

Firefighters from the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority will be on hand with their truck (unless duty calls!)

History Kids White River Valley Museum

Special Pop-up Exhibit: History Kids Clubhouse See–Play–Do at the White River Valley Museum this fall! October 9 – November 10
History Kids Clubhouse is a hands-on exhibit for kids and families to explore and share their own stories while learning about people and objects that tell the history of the White River Valley. Games, photo ops, and more fun. Also Sunday. The Clubhouse is included with regular Museum admission.

Wild Waves Fright Fest-Wild Waves is now doing a daytime, “Family friendly,” event in addition to their scary evenings that are not for kids.

From their page: ALL-NEW Family by Day activities for little goblins begin at 12 noon thru 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  But BEWARE, as the park transitions to FRIGHT BY NIGHT from 6 PM to 7 PM when the monsters come out to find their prey, Friday thru Sunday evenings

Briscot Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Kent. Found on fb New to us, but draft horses and animals are advertised. 

Meet Gekko at Learning Express Toys in Renton

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Greater Pierce County

The Secret Garden at ManeStage 

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the 27th

Orting Pumpkin Fest

Live entertainment for the whole family. Kids’ pumpkin parade, car show, arts and crafts vendors, kids’ zone with bouncy houses, and more fall fun. Orting City Park. 10am-5

Tehaleh Harvest Day

Visitors can speed past the treetops on a zip line, race remote-control boats, and get creative in the Kid Zone with face painting, crafts, and more. Also vendors, food trucks, and open houses.

Karshner Museum Culture and Arts Festival: Trappers, Pioneers, and Washington State History today.  Fort Nisqually and Fort Steilacoom’s 4th Regiment will be leading fun activities and Squirrel Butter will provide lively music. Craft projects and other fun. These free events are always well done!

The Reptile Man is at the Bonney Lake Library 111am-12pm today. Pet an alligator and hold a snake! It’s science and nature for all ages.

Used Book Sale at the Sumner Library

Bedrock Prospectors Show at the fairgrounds in Puyallup

Bedrock Prospectors Club is hosting Bedrock Prospectors Gold, Gem, and Treasure Show at the Washington State Fair Event Center in Puyallup, WA in October. Admission is $10.00 or $5.00 and an unwrapped toy donation for Toys for Tots. There will be a sand box with buried polished stones and agates that the kids can find, plus a chance to learn about metal detecting, coin scrambles, and other fun.

Meeker Mansion Cider Squeeze  Squeeze apples, pick out a pumpkin, visit the snack shack  More here

Something’s Happening Saturdays at the Graham Library Something will be going on at the Graham Library all day on Saturday! Will it be games? Will it be crafts? Will it be building? Drop by and find out!

The Reptile Man will be at the Buckley Library 1-2pm Pet an alligator and hold a snake! It’s science and nature for all! Zoologist and educator Scott Petersen presents live reptiles and teaches the importance of all animals in nature.

Hoot n Howl at Northwest Trek 

Bring the whole family and take a spooky starlit tram ride through the Free-Roaming Area – look out for the famous Ghost Tram!
Come in costume and play games, visit treat stations for candy. (Adults, please leave full face masks at home.) Now on TWO October weekends: Oct. 11-12 and 18-19

Tacoma

Featured: Tacoma Arts Month Events! 

Tacoma Studio Tour 

You are invited inside the working studios of 95 local artists to learn about the artistic process, ask questions, and purchase one-of-a-kind creations. All studios will feature demonstrations or will have hands-on activities for visitors. It’s family friendly and free! Get your Tacoma Studio Tour Passport and more info online. Saturday and Sunday!
Image Credit: City of Tacoma

Spookley The Square Pumpkin The Musical at TMP Family Theater 

TMP Family Theater
11 AM and 2 PM Saturday and 2PM Sunday | $15 Adults | $13 senior, students, military | $12 Children (12 and under) | $10 groups of 10 or more

Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the Pick of the Patch.

October 12th Family Saturdays at the History Museum

Build and test your own spacecraft. Pretend you’re stranded on the moon. Learn about Washington’s many strange connections to space exploration. Then explore the new exhibit A New Moon Rises, featuring dramatic photographs of the moon’s surface. 1-3PM; designed for ages 4-12 but all ages are welcome. Included with admission.

October 12th Family Day at the Museum of Glass

1-4PM Included with admission (5.00-17.00).

Join and make your own identity masks inspired by Transparency: An LGBTQ+ Glass Art Exhibition.

Green Tacoma Day

Tacoma’s parks and open spaces need your help! Join hundreds of volunteers  at one of fourteen different event sites around the city. Volunteers will plant trees and shrubs, pull invasive weeds, and remove litter. Register: www.greentacomaday.org

Zoo Boo at the Point Defiance Zoo

play games around the zoo; watch animals enjoy pumpkins, and other fun. Free with admission; wear a costume for a discount. Also Sunday

Tacoma-Con 2019 at the Main Branch of the Tacoma Public Library

Get your geek on at Tacoma-Con, Tacoma’s free, family-friendly celebration of comics, reading, and pop culture. Crafts, hands-on activities, vendors alley, free comics for kids, Cosplay, workshops, and other fun with great, local groups and comic fans.

4 H Info Fair Learn about 4 H!

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Family story time at Wheelock 10:30

Baby time at Moore Library

Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. For babies and their caregivers. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. 11:30

Interactive Children’s Shows at the Science Dome It’s the area’s only indoor planetarium! Special Haunted Night Sky Program at 12:30 or 2

Friends of the Lakewood Library Book Sale – Member Appreciation SaturdayMembership available at the door. Proceeds support library events, classes and services.

Truck and Tractor Day with Lakewood Parks

Take a free hay ride, climb aboard giant trucks, tractors, buses and fire trucks and honk the horn! Free hard hats for kids while supplies last and a free visit to the pumpkin patch (one pumpkin per family). Food trucks, fun and games This is a great event!

Lacey/Olympia

South Sound Reading Foundation used book sale

Touch a Truck and Disaster Preparedness with West Thurston Fire

Enjoy a free family event that is fun for all ages! Explore, learn, climb, and touch a variety of trucks and equipment and learn about disaster preparedness.

OFS Kids Club at Capitol Theater free movie for kids 12 and under

Havest Moon Storyteller at the Yelm Library

Join storyteller and Quinault Tribal Ambassador Harvest Moon to hear tales from the Northwest Coast Indian tradition. This event is part Timberland Reads Together, a Timberland Regional Library district-wide program.2-3PM

Family story time at the Olympia Library

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

Fun With Fungi at the LOTT Center

Gig Harbor

Explore Your World – Chemistry at the Key Center Library 2:30
Have fun exploring basic principles of chemical experimentation. Best for preschool and elementary ages. Ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday

All Over

Baby and Me Storytime at Barnes and Noble Featuring Noses

11:00 AM Baby & Me Storytime continues for caregivers and children 0-24 months old. Join us as we read a book and participate in activities featuring sensory growth for your little ones. Plus, get a coupon for a $2 off a grande Starbucks Pumpkin Spiced Latte (Café stores only). You may want to call your store to confirm participation.

South King County

History Kids White River Valley Museum

Special Pop-up Exhibit: History Kids Clubhouse See–Play–Do at the White River Valley Museum this fall! October 9 – November 10
History Kids Clubhouse is a hands-on exhibit for kids and families to explore and share their own stories while learning about people and objects that tell the history of the White River Valley. Games, photo ops, and more fun. Also Sunday. The Clubhouse is included with regular Museum admission.

Wild Waves Fright Fest-Wild Waves is now doing a daytime, “Family friendly,” event in addition to their scary evenings that are not for kids.

From their page: ALL-NEW Family by Day activities for little goblins begin at 12 noon thru 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  But BEWARE, as the park transitions to FRIGHT BY NIGHT from 6 PM to 7 PM when the monsters come out to find their prey, Friday thru Sunday evenings.

Briscot Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Kent. Found on fb New to us, but draft horses and animals are advertised. Our full patch list is on the way! 

Pierce County/Tacoma

Spookley The Square Pumpkin The Musical at TMP Family Theater 

TMP Family Theater
11 AM and 2 PM Saturday and 2PM Sunday | $15 Adults | $13 senior, students, military | $12 Children (12 and under) | $10 groups of 10 or more

Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the Pick of the Patch.

Tacoma Studio Tour 

You are invited inside the working studios of 95 local artists to learn about the artistic process, ask questions, and purchase one-of-a-kind creations. All studios will feature demonstrations or will have hands-on activities for visitors. It’s family friendly and free! Get your Tacoma Studio Tour Passport and more info online. Saturday and Sunday!
Image Credit: City of Tacoma

Bedrock Prospectors Show at the fairgrounds in Puyallup

Bedrock Prospectors Club is hosting Bedrock Prospectors Gold, Gem, and Treasure Show at the Washington State Fair Event Center in Puyallup, WA in October. Admission is $10.00 or $5.00 and an unwrapped toy donation for Toys for Tots. There will be a sand box with buried polished stones and agates that the kids can find, plus a chance to learn about metal detecting, coin scrambles, and other fun.

Zoo Boo at the Point Defiance Zoo

play games around the zoo; watch animals enjoy pumpkins, and other fun. Free with admission; wear a costume for a discount.

The Secret Garden at ManeStage 

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the 27th

Olympia/Lacey area

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th

If you’re new here-welcome! We’d love to have you join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, or just make us your daily habit! Want to see this list sooner? Become an email subscriber and get it straight to your inbox first!  Sign up to get those here! 

PS Thank you for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

Need a pumpkin patch or corn maze? That list is here! 

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do October 5th and 6th

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Some of my favorite family events of the fall are this weekend! Don’t miss the Scarecrow Festival in Gig Harbor, the Apple Squeeze in Steilacoom, Children’s Day in Lacey, and much more! It’s all ahead!

Saturday

All Over

Walmart stores are having a Frozen event. This is the event listing for the Auburn Supermall (Outlet Collection) location, but you can put in the name and your location to find one near you.

Story time at Barnes and Noble  Story time featuring A Night at the Bookstore at 11am at most locations. You may want to call yours to confirm.

South King County

Fire Station 16 Open Housein Renton – Tour the station, try on gear, try the hose, and more 1-4PM

Salmon Days Green River

Street Fair Celebration of Salmon returning to spawn. Enjoy lots of vendors with free samples and street entertainment. $3.00 Green River Students. $8 Non students. For more information email Rae: symoon@greenriver.edu Found on fb

Wild Waves Fright Fest-Wild Waves is now doing a daytime, “Family friendly,” event in addition to their scary evenings that are not for kids.

From their page: ALL-NEW Family by Day activities for little goblins begin at 12 noon thru 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  But BEWARE, as the park transitions to FRIGHT BY NIGHT from 6 PM to 7 PM when the monsters come out to find their prey, Friday thru Sunday evenings

Friends of the Covington Library Book Sale

Reading with Rover at the Federal Way 320th Library 11am-12

Briscot Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Kent. Found on fb New to us, but draft horses and animals are advertised. Our full patch list is on the way! 

Toddler Craft at Learning Express Toys in Renton

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Greater Pierce County

Orting Red Hat Days Parade I’ve never heard of this! Anybody have scoop?

Oktoberfest at the Puyallup Fairgrounds

Family day is Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free all weekend, but note that the event is 21 and over after 6PM Friday and Saturday. More info. on family day here.

Harvest Festival in Fife

all kinds of arts, crafts, foods, performances, and vendors 10:30-5 at Dacca Park; rain or shine! Free, though you may want to bring some cash for vendors. Lots of fun for kids!

Cook to Learn at the Puyallup Library

Cook to Learn is a fun time for families to create something delicious together while discovering how easy it is to introduce early math concepts to everyday activities. Each family attending the program must include a preschooler aged 2-6. Siblings may also attend.  Select only one session and call or email to reserve your space. 253.841.5454 or puylib@ci.puyallup.wa.us

Something’s Happening Saturdays at the Graham Library
Something will be going on at the Graham Library all day on Saturday! Will it be games? Will it be crafts? Will it be building? Drop by and find out!

All Bethel Community Day

The 11th annual All Bethel Community Day (ABC Day) at Graham-Kapowsin High School will draw thousands of community members out for a FREE day of fun, festivities and food! Rain or shine, October 5 is going to be a fantastic day! The fun starts at 9 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m

Tacoma

Arts Month Event: Family-Friendly Shorts at the (Tacoma Film Festival) 10:30 AM | $8 general, $5.50 member of The Grand Cinema

Movie lovers of all ages will delight in these animated, documentary, and narrative short films.

October 5th ProctoberFest at the Proctor Farmers Market

9 AM – 2 PM | Free, but you must provide their own pumpkin (purchased from one of the vendors)

Candlelight Tour at Fort Nisqually Advance ticket purchase required. PURCHASE TICKETS

Admission:

Ages 3 and under: Free
Youth (4-17): $10.50
Adult (18+): $15.50

For more information call (253) 404-3970. Note from SFM: Only one time has availability as of this writing.

Fall Harvest 5K at Wright Park

Ranger lead nature walk at Point Defiance

Free Event! Explore the plants and animals living in Point Defiance Park’s unique old-growth forest. Walk includes some steep grades and uneven terrain. Not recommended for strollers, wheelchairs or children under 3. 1PM

4-H information fair in Tacoma this weekend 10am-12 Find out about 4-H!

It’s Greek Festival time October 4th-6th

Greek food, church tours, dancing. I would consider this *mostly* about eating. One of our sons went with us as a 12 year old and had fun. Do be aware that it gets very busy!

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Play, Grow, and Discover at Wheelock 10:30

Baby time at Moore Library

Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. For babies and their caregivers. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. 11:30

L’Arche Harvest Festival

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays – Leap into Science for Families: Wind

Join Ms. Elizabeth for some hands on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programming. In these weekly hands on programs we will explore, build, and create fun and imaginative projects. 2:30-3:30 at Mottet

Nature at Night at the Tacoma Nature Center 

Discover who goes bump in the night at the Tacoma Nature Center. Walk the trails after dark and learn about the nocturnal residents in the park. Warm up afterward with hot cocoa and cookies.

For ages 7 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Interactive Children’s Shows at the Science Dome It’s the area’s only indoor planetarium! Today’s show is Pluto: The Forgotten Planet

Friends of the University Place Library Book Sale

Pacific Science Center – Blood and Guts Exhibits at the Lakewood Library 2:00pm – 3:30pm Explore the systems and organs that keep us alive and kicking⁠—from our skeletons down to nerves and neurons.

Lacey/Olympia

Children’s Day at Huntamer Park in Lacey

A great day of FREE family fun! Games, activities, arts & crafts, food, entertainment, and more! Event is held rain or shine. The 2019 Themeis Dinosaurs!11am-2

Friends of the Lacey Timberland Library book sale

Friends of the Yelm Library book sale

Family story time at the Olympia Library

Block Play
at the Dupont Library 11am-12:30

Fall Arts Walk Olympia

The best way to find the kid friendly activities and venues is by clicking on one of the map links and then hovering/clicking on the icons to see what the location is offering. PS If anyone knows a better shortcut, let me know!

Kayo Kids Day at Rutledge Corn Maze Admission deals and freebies

Bremen Town Musicians at OFT Short, “Let’s Play,” show suitable for the youngest theater goers!

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

Family story time at the Olympia Timberland Library

Artwork at the LOTT Center

Gig Harbor

Scarecrow Festival from PenMet Parks

The Scarecrow Festival features a community Scarecrow Competition with entries created by local business, community groups, and families. Make sure you download your entry form on at the right side of your screen! This festival is an autumn celebration with live entertainment and music, farm animals, hayrides, camel & pony rides, carnival games, food, and fair treat vendors.

Admission to the festival is FREE; some activities include a small fee and suggested $2/child donation. 10am-4pm

Key Peninsula Farm Tour

Spookley the Square Pumpkin – with Tacoma Musical Playhouseat the Gig Harbor Library 10:30 Enjoy a sneak peek from Tacoma Musical Playhouse. You need to register for this one. 24 spots as of this writing

Pier Into the Night With Harbor WildWatch

Sunday

South King County

Wild Waves Fright Fest-Wild Waves is now doing a daytime, “Family friendly,” event in addition to their scary evenings that are not for kids.

From their page: ALL-NEW Family by Day activities for little goblins begin at 12 noon thru 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  But BEWARE, as the park transitions to FRIGHT BY NIGHT from 6 PM to 7 PM when the monsters come out to find their prey, Friday thru Sunday evenings.

Briscot Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Kent. Found on fb New to us, but draft horses and animals are advertised. Our full patch list is on the way! 

Pierce County/Tacoma

Oktoberfest at the Puyallup Fairgrounds

Family day is Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free all weekend, but note that the event is 21 and over after 6PM Friday and Saturday. More info. on family day here.

Steilacoom Apple Squeeze

Steilacoom Historical Museum Association hosts their annual Apple Squeeze on Sunday, October 6th. Make fresh squeezed cider and purchase apple treats.  Last year’s event included apple trees for sale and an apple expert on hand to answer questions, along with children’s activities, pony rides, and more. If you’re new to the area, this is a lovely town, with an old-fashioned charm. 10am-4pm

Key Peninsula Farm Tour

Ranger lead nature walks at Point Defiance 1PM

Free Event! Explore the plants and animals living in Point Defiance Park’s unique old-growth forest. Walk includes some steep grades and uneven terrain. Not recommended for strollers, wheelchairs or children under 3.

Family Fun Yoga at the Wheelock Library 1:30

Family Fun Yoga is for families with children. Yoga poses, breathing exercises, and mindfulness  Geared toward ages 3-7 but any ages are welcome.

It’s Greek Festival time October 4th-6th

Greek food, church tours, dancing. I would consider this *mostly* about eating. One of our sons went with us as a 12 year old and had fun. Do be aware that it gets very busy!

Olympia/Lacey area

Bremen Town Musicians at OFT Short, “Let’s Play,” show suitable for the youngest theater goers!

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

If you’re new here-welcome! We’d love to have you join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, or just make us your daily habit! Want to see this list sooner? Become an email subscriber and get it straight to your inbox first!  Sign up to get those here! 

PS Thank you for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do September 28th and 29th

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Who needs something fun to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve found touch a trucks, fire station open houses, festivals, and more!

Saturday

All Over

Free day at Washington State Parks No Discover Pass needed in honor of National Public Lands Day

Story time at Barnes and Noble  Story time featuring How I Met My Monster at 11am at most locations. You may want to call yours to confirm.

South King County

Community Harvest Festival in Maple Valley

Briscot Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Kent. Found on fb New to us, but draft horses and animals are advertised. Our full patch list is on the way! 

Meet Paw Patrol at Learning Express Toys in Renton

Touch a Truck and safety expo at the Outlet Collection fire trucks, police cars, garbage trucks and more!

Parrot Expo in Auburn

Seattle Parrot Expo is an annual, fee event where you can learn about everything parrot!  Low cost photo ops. Also Sunday

Hawktoberfest car show in Kent

Auburn Avenue Kids presents Eric Haines

Guitar-slinging comedian Eric Haines’ act is part rock concert, part comedy show, and part twisted, bizarre circus! 10.00 tickets

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Greater Pierce County

East Pierce Fire and Rescue Open House

tons of vehicles and demonstrations; helmet sales, and much more! 1-4 Great event!

National Hunting and Fishing Day Celebration
Youth 17 and under can shoot WDFW firearms, archery equipment, and air rifles with instruction and guidance provided by WDFW staff and hunter education instructors.  The event will also feature door prizes, a mock turkey hunt, casting practice, and pollinator activities. at the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club in Puyallup

Explore Your World – Slime at the Bonney Lake Library 2pm
Explore STEM at your library! Develop lab skills and creativity. Measure various chemicals to make your own ball of sticky slime. Best for elementary and middle schoolers.
Birds of Prey – The Falconer at the Sumner Library 10:30am
Join falconer John Prucich for an up-close learning adventure featuring live birds of prey. Discover how raptors live and how we can help them thrive in the world. All ages.
Birds of Prey – The Falconer at the Milton/Edgewood Library 2pm
Join falconer John Prucich for an up-close learning adventure featuring live birds of prey. Discover how raptors live and how we can help them thrive in the world. All ages.

4-H information fairs

Tacoma

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Family story time at Wheelock 10:30

Microlibrary Launch Party at the Eastside Community Center 11am-1pm

Come and check out the new Eastside Microlibrary! All are welcome to this community event at Eastside Community Center to learn more – and try out – Tacoma Public Library’s new service point.

Baby time at Moore Library

Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. For babies and their caregivers. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. 11:30

New Safeway community celebration

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays – Make Your Own Forky at the Mottet Branch of the TPL  2:30pm

Interactive Children’s Shows at the Science Dome It’s the area’s only indoor planetarium! Today’s show is Pluto: The Forgotten Planet

Charlie the Noise Guy – Back-to-School Fun at the Tillicum Library 12pm-12:45 Kick off the school year with vocal sound impressionist and comedian Charlie the Noise Guy. Learn beat boxing, soundtracks for stories and the history of music from the zany czar of sound. All ages.

Lacey/Olympia

Nisqually Watershed Festival

This year’s festival will feature hands-on activities with local conservation and nature organizations, mainstage performances with live animals and music, storytelling, walking tours, the Insect Extravaganza, a salmon barbecue and other great coffee and food options. Bring or purchase a t-shirt to the festival to make a wearable fish print with a Nisqually salmon!

The Delicious Revenge of Princess Rubyslippers at Olympia Family Theater Various shows and times through October 20th More here

Family story time at the Olympia Timberland Library

Go Inside a Whale at the LOTT Center

Come meet Big Mama, the life-sized walk-inside inflatable humpback whale! Explore whale anatomy and discover their importance with experts from NOAA’s Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary.

Free OFS Kids Club movie It’s Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor Cider Swig

Saturday Makers Market

Sunday

South King County

Fire Station 14 Open House in Renton

meet the firefighters, try the fire hose, and more!

Parrot Expo in Auburn

Seattle Parrot Expo is an annual, free event where you can learn about everything parrot. Low cost photo ops.

Pierce County/Tacoma

Family bike ride in Sumner with Cascade Bicycle Club

Family Fun Yoga at the Wheelock Library 1:30-2:15pm

Family Fun Yoga is for families with children. Do yoga poses to fun songs and  practice Mindfulness by using different breathing exercises. Geared toward ages 3-7 but any ages are welcome.Please bring yoga mats or towels.

Cellar to Attic Tour of Meeker Mansion

Olympia/Lacey area

Healthy Kids Running Series

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PS Thank you for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do September 21st and 22nd

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The list this weekend is ,”Best bets,” style! And there are some great ones! Don’t miss one of these fun happenings if you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids today.

Auburn Main Street Festival

Touch a Truck at the Port of Tacoma\

Great, free event for your vehicle lovers!

Tacoma Moon Festival

Presented by the Chinese Reconciliation Project Foundation, the festival celebrates the diverse cultures of the Puget Sound region’s communities, with performances, food, vendors and info booths. A wine and beer garden will be available for adults, and there will be hands-on activities for adults and children including tea ceremonies, calligraphy and beyond. A parade of lanterns led by the Moon Princess at 7 pm will conclude the festival.

Smithsonian Magazine Free Museum Day

Download a free ticket to one of many participating area museums.

Family STEAM Day at LeMay ACM

12th Street Festival

Children’s show at the Pierce College Planetarium

JBF Sale in Olympia

Score a bargain on kids’ gear and duds!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do September 14th and 15th

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What a fun weekend list! We love the Job Carr Cabin Pioneer Days event in Tacoma. There is also a stuffed animal sleepover in Kent that sounds adorable, the fair is continuing in Puyallup, and there are library events and special chances to connect with other cool parents just about everywhere else! Read on for all of it!

Saturday

All Over

Story time at Barnes and Noble  Story time featuring Pete the Cat’s Perfect Pizza Party at 11am at most locations. You may want to call yours to confirm.

South King County

Grand Opening of the Kent YMCA tours, free food samples, try out classes

Free Kids Project at the Rusty Raven in Kent 10am-2  Monthly free project; suitable for ages 2 and up

Construction Zone: Story & Play Time!

at the Kent Library 10:30-12 Stories and Lego building time

Stuffed Animal Sleepover at the Kent Library 3-4:30PM

Bring your favorite stuffed friend for a story time and back room tour before the toys stay overnight at the library! Return on Sunday afternoon for a tea party at 1:30pm featuring photos of what your friend did without you. Registration required.

Meet Rapunzel at Learning Express Toys in Renton

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Greater Pierce County

Trading Card Game Saturdays at the Graham Library 1-5PM Drop in anytime between 1-5 p.m. to play your favorite trading card games such as Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon and Final Fantasy.

It’s Washington State Fair time! Yep, the fair we still call the Puyallup is ongoing through the 22nd.

Tacoma

Job Carr Cabin Museum Pioneer Days Festival

*Live music and storytelling
*Interactive demonstrations
*Arts and crafts
*Games and races

Admission to the Museum and all events are “pay as you can.” Super great event for your young history fans!  More here

Lady Washington at the Foss Waterway Seaport

She’s back! The Foss Waterway Seaport will welcome the tall ship Lady Washington from September 12-15, 2019. The ship will be docked at the Seaport, and will offer FREE dockside tours to museum visitors presenting their admission sticker or receipt. Ticketed sailing events also available.

Welcoming Week Family Storytime at the Moore Library 10:30 .
  • Community members will share books in Chinese, Korean, Russian and more.
  • Children will have the opportunity to make a craft, and all are invited to enjoy conversation.

Family story time at Wheelock 10:30

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays at Mottet

Join Ms. Elizabeth for some hands on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programming. 2:30

Kidical Mass Family Bike Ride 10:30am – 12pm
Starts/Ends at the People’s Center (1602 M.L.K. Jr. Way, Tacoma, WA 98405) Relatively flat 2-3 mile route with stops along the way. Group travels at a kid pace; helmets required; contact the organizer for more details.

Children’s Choir Workshop at the University Place Library 11:30 Join Dan Hegelund, director of the Roar Children’s Choir, for a singing workshop, covering breath, enunciation, projection and more.

Lakewood Colonial Plaza Grand OpeningRibbon cutting with the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and a night market, live music by “Baking with Julia”, kids karaoke, car show, food trucks and more. 5-8pm

Interactive Children’s Shows at the Science Dome It’s the area’s only indoor planetarium! Today’s show is Pluto: The Forgotten Planet

Lacey/Olympia

It’s Grandparent’s Month at the HOCM. Grandparents get half off admission on open days all month.

Family story time at the Olympia Timberland Library

Book sale at the Olympia Timberland Library

Treatment Plant Tour at the LOTT Center

Get a behind the scenes tour of the Budd Inlet Treatment Plant! Presentation followed by a tour begins at 1:00 pm. Tour participants must be 10 or older and wear sturdy closed shoes. Watershed related activities all day.

Free OFS Kids Club movie It’s Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

Gig Harbor

Harbor Hounds Community Fair

A pet-friendly family fun day in downtown Gig Harbor and along the waterfront. Event sponsors set up booths to display and/or sell their products and services in Skansie Park. Enjoy a day of fun and entertainment with neighbors, family and your furry best friend!

Moonwalk – 50-Year Celebration at the Key Center Library 1-2pm
Debbie the Science Lady revisits Neil Armstrong’s historic walk on the moon.

Saturday Makers Market

Sunday

South King County

Block Party! LEGO® at the Library at Federal Way 2-4pm

Reading with Rover at the Covington Library 1-2PM Drop in and practice reading to a certified therapy dog.

Pierce County/Tacoma

Back to School Play Day at Pod Works

monthly open house, featuring mom-made circle times and class resources for your little ones!

Early education activities and circle times with Little Chestnuts Preschool and Tacoma Childrens School, information on local enrichment classes brought to you by Tacoma Craft Society and Casita Mia and additional resources including lunch creations and back to school shopping! Photo booths, membership specials 10am-2

Family Fun Yoga at the Wheelock Library 1:30-2:15

Family Fun Yoga is for families with children Yoga poses to fun songs and breathing exercises to promote mindfulness. Geared toward ages 3-7 but any ages are welcome. Please bring yoga mats or towels.

Kids’ Workshop at Soap and Clay Registration and fees required. We’ve heard this is fun!

It’s Washington State Fair time! Yep, the fair we still call the Puyallup is ongoing through the 22nd.

Olympia/Lacey area

Healthy Kids’ Running Series

Healthy Kids Running Series – South Sound is a non-profit, 5 week race series, offering a fun and inclusive race experience for kids 2-14.

Full series registration is $40 and includes all 5 races, a tech shirt, finisher medal (received on week 5) raffle entries and sponsor swag. Points are earned at each race and the overall top runner in each category receives a trophy as well.

Walk up – single races (run only – no shirt/swag) are available to purchase on site only for $10 cash/check *Everyone who registers for week 5 will receive a medal as they cross the finish line – no medals will be given for single race participants on any other week*  New to us event; found on fb

It’s Grandparent’s Month at the HOCM. Grandparents get half off admission on open days all month and free admission today, Sunday the 8th.

If you’re new here-welcome! We’d love to have you join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, or just make us your daily habit! Want to see this list sooner? Become an email subscriber and get it straight to your inbox first!  Sign up to get those here! 

PS Thank you for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do September 7th and 8th!

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What a fun weekend list! If you have someone at your house who loves trucks and big rigs, do Not miss the Touch A Truck at Sprinker! It’s one of our favorite annual events. There is also a free concert to celebrate the new Dune Peninsula, a Balloon Glow event that sounds super cool, and much more! It’s all ahead, and I’ve provided links to everything so you can double check details!

 

Saturday

All Over

Story time at Barnes and Noble  Story time featuring Dr. Seuss’s Horse Museum at 11am at most locations. You may want to call yours to confirm.

South King County

Back to School Party at Learning Express

Everyone’s back to school, even tigers with red cardigans! Celebrate back to school with a tiger party at the toy store! Make a striped tail and get a tiger photo!

Pooch Plunge at the Henry Moses Aquatic Center It’s a pool party for dogs! Saturday and Sunday; sign-up for a time slot. Note that only dogs are allowed in the pool.

Reading With Rover at FW 320th11am

James and the Giant Peach Jr.

Auburn Dance Academy presents their 3rd Annual Musical Theater Camp production of James and the Giant Peach Jr.

Pacific Runderland Kids’ Run

As part of the Pacific Runderland 5k event, kids ages 12 and under can join us for a 1k Kids Run following the 5k event! The Kids Run will be a 1k (approximately 0.6 miles) out-and-back run/walk that begins and ends at Roegner Park in Auburn, WA. The Kids Run will start at 10:30 am.
Registration is just $10 ($15 DOR) and includes a race bib, t-shirt and ribbon. Parents/guardians may join kiddos for no extra fee. Found on fb; new to the list

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Balloon Glow Enumclaw

Join Enumclaw Expo and Seattle Balloon for its first Hot Air Balloon Glow. Food trucks, music and a show you won’t want to miss as Seattle Balloon present a spectacular show with balloons glowing in sync to music and narration. Note from SFM: This looks really cool. Do note that the show starts at dusk, and the balloons stay on the ground, so you may want to mention that to your kids ahead of time. Gates Open at 5:30PM Admission is $5 (per person) OR $20 per family (up to 5 people; 2 adults, 3 children) Link has additional info. and scoop on ticket purchase.

Greater Pierce County

It’s Washington State Fair time! Yep, the fair we still call the Puyallup is ongoing through the 22nd.

Vietnamese Music Workshop at the South Hill Library

Experience traditional Vietnamese musical instruments, culture and costumes. 2-4pm

Trading Card Game Saturdays at the Graham Library 1-5pm Tweens are invited to drop in anytime between 1-5 p.m. to play favorite trading card games such as Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon and Final Fantasy.

Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club Back 2 School Bash

Naches Trail PTA invites all Bethel School District students to the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club for food trucks, bounce houses, face painting, and more family fun to celebrate the start of your school year.

Puyallup First Baptist Community Pop Up

community pop-up event with a bounce house, games, crafts, hot dogs, and a free raffle. Puyallup Emergency Management, Communities In Schools, Karshner PTA and Puyallup Valley Co-op Preschool will also be joining in the fun.

Tacoma

Ranger lead nature walk at Point Defiance

Meet the Park Ranger at the Rhodendron Garden pavilion and explore the plants and animals living in Point Defiance Park’s unique old-growth forest. Fun for ages 3 and up; not recommended for strollers or wheelchairs. 1-2

Harvest Home at Ft.Nisqually

Celebrate the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn at the Harvest Home festival.Visitors can learn to make corn husk dolls, weave wheat straw, play popular Victorian games, and enjoy other fun. Visitors should use the Point Defiance Park Mildred Street entrance to avoid congestion from Dune Peninsula event traffic. Ages 3 and under: Free; Youth (4-17): $8.50 Military/Senior (65+): $9.50 Adult (18-64): $10.50 Family (Up to 2 adults + 6 youth): $35.50

Downtown to Defiance   Annual, free family friendly event celebrating non car transportation. Use a bike or other human power to get to the Dune Peninsula Celebration! Activities, crafts, and games at stops along the way

Dune Peninsula Celebration and Concert

Celebrate the new Wilson Way bridge and Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park with family-friendly activities and a FREE concert on the Cambia Legacy Lawn. Event features a beer-and-wine garden along with food trucks offering food and beverage for purchase. Beer garden opens at Noon. Seating begins at Noon. No tickets required, this is a free event! Performance by Vertical Horizon. Opening band: Dedset. See link for parking and transportation suggestions.

Family Storytime at Moore 10:30

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays at Mottet

Join Ms. Elizabeth for some hands on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programming. 2:30

Ultimate Bungee Trampoline  at Point Ruston

Building Madness at the Steilacoom Library
Use Lego bricks, Straws & Connectors, blocks and more to construct fabulous contraptions. Creative fun for the whole family. Age 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 11am

Interactive Children’s Shows at the Science Dome It’s the area’s only indoor planetarium! Today’s show is Pluto: The Forgotten Planet

Touch a Truck at Sprinker

Don’t miss this one if you’ve got a vehicle lover! Kids of all ages will love to climb, run around, sit in and even honk horns of many types of trucks and vehicles at Sprinker Recreation Center located on 14824 C Street South in Tacoma. A special no horns time is scheduled from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. for sensory sensitive children. Kids can explore a fire engine, dump trucks, command center, bucket truck, striper, tractor, military vehicles, school buses and so many more.

Lacey/Olympia

It’s Grandparent’s Month at the HOCM. Grandparents get half off admission on open days all month and free admission the 8th (Sunday!).

Friends of the Yelm Library book sale

Family story time at the Olympia Timberland Library

Learn about furry forest friends at the LOTT Center

Our forests are home to all sorts of furry creatures like squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons. Can you identify their tracks? How about their scat? Discover more about our furry forest friends! 10am-4

Movie afternoon at the Tumwater Library

Spider-Man Into the Spiderverse 2pm

Block Play at the DuPont Library 11am Building with blocks is not only fun, it develops early math and science skills. All you need is imagination! All ages; under 6 with an adult.

Insect Safari at the Dupont Library Enjoy a rare opportunity to see many amazing preserved insects up close. 2-3pm

Free OFS Kids Club movie It’s Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

Gig Harbor

Saturday Makers Market

Sunday

South King County

Pooch Plunge at the Henry Moses Aquatic Center It’s a pool party for dogs! Saturday and Sunday; sign-up for a time slot. Note that only dogs are allowed in the pool.

Pierce County/Tacoma

It’s Washington State Fair time! Yep, the fair we still call the Puyallup is ongoing through the 22nd.

Meet the Park Ranger at the Rhodendron Garden pavilion and explore the plants and animals living in Point Defiance Park’s unique old-growth forest. Not recommended for strollers, wheelchairs, or children under 3.

Open trails day at Morse Preserve

monthly opportunity to enjoy this special place in Graham. Quiet, unplugged outing.

Olympia/Lacey area

It’s Grandparent’s Month at the HOCM. Grandparents get half off admission on open days all month and free admission today, Sunday the 8th.

Make it Pink Tea Party with Princess Aurora at Glitter and Suede New to the list; found on fb. If you check this spot out, let us know how you like it!

If you’re new here-welcome! We’d love to have you join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, or just make us your daily habit! Want to see this list sooner? Become an email subscriber and get it straight to your inbox first!  Sign up to get those here! 

PS Thank you for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

Free Puyallup Fair Entry Opening Day

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Pic courtesy of the Washington State Fair in Puyallup, Wash.,  (Photo by Patrick Hagerty)

A quick reminder that you can get into the fair free on opening day, Friday, August 30th, from 10:30am-12:30 when you bring along a suggested non-perishable food donation as part of KOMO and The Fair’s Opening Day food drive. 

Plus, All kids ages 18 & under will receive FREE Washington State Fair gate admission Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 2 thanks to BECU.

Kids 5 and under are free each and every day of the Washington State Fair. No coupon necessary. School age kids should also receive free tickets from their schools.

I’m updating our post with other fair deals and savings tips now, And we still have some tickets to give away, so do check back for all of that!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do August 23rd, 24th, and 25th

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It’s a great weekend if you’re looking for things to do with the kids! See cars, planes, or a tall ship. Visit a farm, take in a show, or pick up school supplies. I also want to particularly highlight the Kidz Kraze event on Sunday in UP. It’s going to be so much fun, and it’s free! We love free! All that and more is just below the pretty pic!

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