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Open Parks and Trails around Tacoma and the South Puget Sound

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Are you wondering which Tacoma area parks and trails are open?

Here is a round up of which South Sound area trails are still open in Puyallup, Tacoma, Auburn, Gig Harbor, Fife, and nearby areas.  I also have information on what South King County area parks and trails are open, as well as the scoop on open trails in Olympia, Lacey, and Dupont.

Note that rules vary by municipality and governing agency, and this list was current as of April 9th. Things keep changing, so you may want to confirm before you head out.

A few things to keep in mind:

In basically every case where a trail or park is still open for passive recreation, like walking, all other features-playgrounds, parking lots, and bathrooms are closed. Be sure to, “Go before you go.”

You are encouraged to use the parks and trails you can walk to, and do be mindful about area rules regarding parking in neighborhoods.

Finally, remember to practice, “Social distancing,” when using trails and parks, especially if you see other folks out and about.

I will also note that some trails are crazy busy right now despite what is going on. Like-we were legit. shocked at all the folks on Ruston Way. I’d encourage you to have an A plan and a B plan.

South Sound Area Parks and Trails Still Open During the Covid Stay at Home Order

Pierce County/Tacoma and Nearby

Pierce County Parks

Pierce County trails are open

Trailheads are closed, so use the bathroom first!

Tacoma

Metro Parks Tacoma parks and trails are open. Playgrounds, parking lots, restrooms, and so on, are closed.

Puyallup

Puyallup Parks and trails are closed

Lakewood

Lakewood Parks and trails are closed

Fife

Fife trails are open

Here is a pdf of the trail system

Gig Harbor

In Gig Harbor, the following PenMet Parks trails are still open:

Park trails remain open at Sehmel Homestead Park, McCormick Forrest Park, Rotary Tails and Harbor Family Park.

Key Peninsula 

Mad props to Key Pen for this super handy chart showing what’s open at their parks.

Sumner

Parks are closed but the Sumner Link Trail remains open

Thurston County and Nearby

Lacey

All City parks and trails remain open from 7:00 a.m. until dark; however, parking lots are locked to limit groups from gathering as are restrooms and all amenities. 

Dupont

Trails, fields, the off leash area, and parking lots will remain open. Please remember to maintain the 6 foot social distancing in public around others.

Olympia

All City of Olympia Playgrounds/Play Areas, Skate Courts, Sport Courts, Heritage Park Fountain, Boat Moorage, Picnic Shelters and park parking lots are closed. Parks and trails are accessible for activities where social distancing can be maintained, such as walking, jogging, cycling and nature viewing.

Yelm

City trails and parks are open

South King County

King County Parks and Trails are closed

Enumclaw

City parks remain open for passive use only and social distancing directives still apply. These restrictions remain in place indefinitely. Police patrol will be monitoring city parks for anyone not adhering to this closure and restrictions.

Auburn

Parks and trails were social distancing can be maintained remain open.

Kent

Kent Parks and trails are closed

Renton

All parks are open.However, parking lots, restrooms, playgrounds, sport courts, fields, and other active recreation areas within parks are closed. (3/20)

All trails, are open except two sections of the Cedar River Trail.

Washington State Parks are closed 

Mt. Rainier National Park’s roads are all closed to vehicles. There is some limited access to the backcountry, but I would just consider it closed.

If you know a detail we should add or have a good suggestion for places to #RecreateResponsibly, let me know!

Ten Cheap Toys and Tools for Backyard Exploration With Kids

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Ten Cheap or Inexpensive Toys To Add Fun To Backyard Exploration

Are you looking for some cheap and easy ways to make exploring your backyard more fun? I’ve got just the things!

If you’re staying at home or doing a quarantine with the kids, you’re likely keeping your walks and exploration close to home. These simple toys will add a little fun to your day even if you don’t go further than the walk in front of your house, or your own yard!

I’ve included my Amazon affiliate link to each of these, but I also encourage you to explore local businesses offering curbside pick up like the Curious Bear. I’ve also include a no-spend or very low-spend option for each! Happy exploring!

A magnifying glass

Obviously, I like this one from Melissa and Doug because it has a snake handle. Need two? This set seems like a good deal. 

Budget option: You can probably find one at the dollar store if these are too pricey. Inexpensive ones may shatter, so do be attentive if you’re using one of those.

Seeing things up close is amazing for young children!

A nature guide

I love this one and right now it’s part of Amazon’s 3 for the price of 2 promotion!

Budget option: The Point Defiance Zoo has lots of free nature guides and resource online right now on their new Nature at Home page.

A flower pressing kit This one looks kid friendly.

Budget option: Use a heavy book.

PS I also love thissolar print paper. It would be great for some school-at-home science!

A hula hoop!

Got a hoop? Put it on the ground and challenge your child to examine every little thing inside it. You would be amazed at how much there is to explore inside a circle!

Budget option: Use a string or draw a circle with a stick. You may also find hoops at the dollar store or drug or grocery if you’re venturing out.

A Bug Container

Here’s a handy place for your kids’ new friends.

This BugView Quick-Release catcher and magnifier is another cool option.

Budget Option: Any container you’re willing to sacrifice as long as it’s got breathing holes and what not!

Water Magnifier

Make those puddles more fascinating! These are surprisingly cool and well worth the spend. This one looks like a boat! PS Think water specific magnifying glass if you’re wondering what these do.

Budget Option: Sara wrap on the end of a paper towel tube.

Explorer’s Kit

How cute is this??

Do you need this? No. But my children had a similar kit, and they got years of play value from it as they had real and imagined adventures all over our house and yard. One of mine was also heavily into Diego and his magic backpack.

Binoculars

These look cool

but there are lots of options, in all price ranges. Another idea is to get a durable pair for the whole family.

Budget option: Two paper towel tubes trimmed and tapped together.

A Hiking Guide

This is a complete tease, since we’re all staying at home right now, but why not do some summer (we hope!) dreaming? This guide is our absolute favorite, and there are plenty of hikes challenging enough for all ages. My family has been using this guide for years, and we haven’t worked our way through it yet.

If you’ve been having fun adventures close to home, I’d love to hear about them!

 

Six Ways to Have More Fun On a Short Walk With Kids

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What to do when you’re staying at home but you still need some fresh air, and the same old stroll down the street is getting a little dull?

Here are some fun ways to take a, “Hike,” with kids that don’t require going further than down the block (or getting too close to anyone)! These will make your daily walks with the kids seem a little more like an adventure!

Penny Hike

At each turn or intersection, your child flips the coin. “Heads,” you go left and, “Tails,” you go right. As a bonus, your neighbors will be scratching their heads wondering why you’re walking in circles!

Pajama Hike

It’s a walk in your pajamas. You’re probably already wearing them, right?

Flashlight Hike

If you and the kids are sleeping in anyway, let them stay up until dark and take a walk around the neighborhood with your flashlights. Just don’t trip!

Bear Hunt

Is your neighborhood doing a bear hunt or putting hearts in the windows? If not, maybe you could start something up! Kids walk and try to spot bears or hearts on the way. We’ve heard some folks are also putting up eggs! Hop to it!

I Spy or Alphabet Hunt walk

Any game you used to play on a driving trip can be converted to a walking game! See if your beginning readers can find each letter of the alphabet in order as you walk, or play, “I spy,” with things on your street.

Scavenger Hunt or Treasure Hunt

See if the kids can find a round rock, or a pointy leaf, and so on. There are lots of printable scavenger hunts online, but you can easily make your own. Or just let the kids decide what, “Treasures,” they want to take home. A clean egg carton is a handy container. When my boys were small we had a big flower pot on the porch to hold those sticks and pine cones that were too precious to leave behind but too dirty to bring in the house!

Where to go? These walks are all designed to be fun with your immediate family in your own neighborhood, but as of this writing there are still some area trails that are open. Obviously, you will want to check before you head out, and make sure it’s a path you can use while still maintaining a distance from your fellow walkers.

I’d love to hear what close-to-home adventures you’ve been having with your family!

South Sound Resources for Families At Home During the Coronavirus

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Hey, friends, How are you?

Before you answer, let me say upfront that if you just want to scroll down to ideas and resources, they’re towards the bottom where you see the graphic. It won’t hurt my feelings if you skip my musings. Really. I won’t know.

This is a weird, weird time, and for whatever reason I keep thinking of this sticker I got from the oral surgeon one time. It said, “Be nice to me. I had a root canal today.”

It feels like we all need a sticker right now. Like, “Be nice to me. It’s my first pandemic today.”

I’ve actually been pretty encouraged by the messages of support and kindness I’ve seen. Yeah, there are people hoarding toilet paper (Hey, stop that, if you’re one of them, please), but there are also people offering to shop for older folks and people offering free classes online and people ordering more take out than they probably need to support their favorite restaurants.

And that all reminds me of talking to my grandma shortly after September 11th. She reminded me of Pearl Harbor, and WWII, and a bunch of other awful stuff that we got through. And on that note, I have also seen a bunch of memes online about how this is no big deal compared to those things, and how this is really a great opportunity to hang out with your family, and while I think those things are true, I also know that this is a really big deal for a lot of us, and I hope you give yourself some grace here if you’re sitting in your pajamas watching Frozen 2 for the 10th time instead of baking bread and teaching the kids algebra and what not.

Pretend I gave you a sticker if you want.

Moving on…….

You’re invited….

If you are looking for ideas of things to do, local support and resources, or so on, I would like to invite you to join our new Facebook group:

South Sound Fun at Home With Sounds Fun Mom.

We’ll have links to virtual tours, small businesses offering curbside pick up, lists of fav parks that are playground free, and other good stuff. The emphasis will be on local resources, so that when this is all done you can go thank and visit them in person!

If you don’t want to join another group but you do need some ideas, keep reading

If You Want to Do Some School at Home

ThriftyNorthwestMom has a great list of online, educational resources. I know that many schools are also going to be working on getting some things out for your older kids. Do keep in mind that some sites are going to require you to input personal information or will hit you up for a subscription after some period, so proceed with caution!

If You Want to Get Outside

we have a great list of easy nature hikes here. You should be able to enjoy any of these while still practicing social distancing, but I leave the final determination up to you, obviously.

You may also like one of these park or hike posts. Again, I’m leaving it up to you to decide if you can do one while being safe-and if we are asked to just stay home at some point, well, I’d do that.

Sequalitchew Creek in Dupont is one of our most popular hike posts. Most of it is even stroller friendly!

We also have a list of  Local hikes that end at beaches

If You Want to Get Crafty

Ben Franklin and The Makery are offering curbside pick up of their craft kits.

If You Need to Get the Kids Online

Comcast is offering free internet to qualifying families.

Internet Essentials from Comcast:

Families who are qualified for Free/Reduced Lunch may be eligible for the Comcast Internet Essentials Program. Cost is $9.95 a month and families may be eligible for a low-cost computer. Check here or call 1-855- 846-8376 for more details.

If You Want Someone Else to Cook

If you can afford it and are comfortable with delivery or pick-up, Sue Kidd has an amazing list of area restaurants offering take out or delivery, and it would be a great way to support them during this difficult time.

If you need other help, you are welcome to leave a comment, and I’ll do my best to offer some suggestions.

xoxo Maegen

South Sound Weekend Kids Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do March 7th and 8th

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Here’s the weekend list! There have been some cancellations and delays this weekend due to virus fears, so I do suggest you use the links to confirm details before you head out!

Have a great one!

South Sound Kid's Calendar

Saturday

All Over 

Barnes and Noble story time Most area stores offer a story time for children 2-5 at 11am. We do suggest confirming with yours as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s How to Catch a Unicorn and How to Catch a Dinosaur today.

South King County

Auburn Community Players presents Matilda  *Note from SFM I don’t see online ticketing options for this weekend, so you may want to call first to see if there is availability. There are additional shows this month if you can’t go this weekend. Here is the fb page

JBF Seattle Kids Consignment event in Federal Way Runs the 5th-8th; located in the vacant former Sears at The Commons

CLOSED this weekendThe Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo is back open  small, free aquarium with touch tanks for the kids! Discovery Day from 10am-2pm

Greater Pierce County

Something’s Happening Saturdays 10:00am – 5:00pm at the Graham Library

Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

Read with a Daffodil Princess 11:00am – 12:00pm at the Buckley Library Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Read with a Daffodil Princess Saturday, March 07: 11:00am – 12:00pm at the Summit Library

Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Steam Explorers – Scribble Bots 1:00pm – 2:00pm at the Summit Library Build your own art robot and see what it can draw. All supplies provided. For ages 7 and older.

Read with a Daffodil Princess  2:00pm – 3:00pm at the Milton/Edgewood Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Traveling Lantern Theatre Company at the Graham Library 3:00pm – 4:00pm Watch the Traveling Lantern Theatre’s adaptation of the beloved Narnia classic by C.S. Lewis!

Tacoma-Also includes University Place and Lakewood

Seuss’s Spring Fling

Games and crafts and lots of  Read Across America themed fun. 10am-12; new mobile kitchen dedication at 10AM.

STEAM Saturdays at Mottet 2:30

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. All ages.

Baby time at Moore

Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. For babies and their caregivers. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. 11:30-12

Play, Grow, and Discover at Wheelock 10:30-11:15

Join us the 1st Saturday of the month for a themed sensory experience for toddlers and preschoolers.

Family story time at Moore  

10:30-11  Come for stories, songs, and other fun learning activities designed to develop the language, literacy and social skills your child needs for success.

Kawaii Keychains Kawaii Keychains – Youth Craft at the Main Library 2-3PM

Join us to make Kawaii (cute) keychains out of Shrink Plastic. Learn how to draw Kawaii faces and animals.  This monthly craft is aimed at 5th – 12th grade.

Read with a Daffodil Princess  2:00pm – 3:00pm at the University Place Library Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Children’s show at the Science Dome
Take the kids to the area’s only indoor planetarium. It’s great!

Free Astronomy Event

The Tacoma Astronomical Society hosts free public viewing sessions each month at Pierce College near Fort Steilacoom. Indoor lectures, demonstrations, and workshops are available at public nights regardless of the weather. On nights with clear skies, TAS volunteers provide telescopic observations of the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, double stars and more. Free; donations gladly accepted.

Insect Safari with Don Ehlen
Saturday, March 07: 12:00pm – 1:00pm at the Tillicum Library  Enjoy a rare opportunity to see more than 2,000 amazing insects up close.

District STEM Fair

Families and community members are invited to attend the district STEM fair on March 7 at Harrison Preparatory School, 9103 Lakewood Dr. S.W. in Lakewood. This free, all-ages event begins at 9 a.m. This year’s event features a mini museum exhibition from the Burke Museum focused on ecosystems.

Last days of the Rhea Lana consignment event

Gig Harbor

Mad Science – Fire and Ice Show! 11am-12 at the Key Center Library

Watch an interactive science show with foggy dry ice storms and gravity defying beach balls. Ever see scissors sizzle and shiver? Ever taken a bubble shower? Here’s your chance!

CANCELLLEDHarbor WildWatch Pier Into the Night Live Dive Event

Gig Harbor Night Market

Olympia

Traveling Lantern Theatre Company at the Dupont Library 11am

The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company brings us another adventure in a fantastic world! This is an all ages show; children under 8 with an adult.

The Fisherman and his Wife at Olympia Family Theater

A familiar folk tale, a family, some fish and some wishes! Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows performed in the lobby and between 20-30 minutes in length- perfect for young audiences of 0-5 year olds and favorite grown ups!  Giggles guaranteed. Lobby opens 30 minutes before showtime; admission is 5.00 cash or check at the door (under 2 free with paying adult; allow time to park).

Countdown to Kindergarten with Olympia School District *Event is geared towards parents

CANCELLED Lacey Cultural Celebration

Friends of the Yelm Library book sale

Family story time at the Olympia Library

Common Sense Gardening  at the LOTT WET Science Center

Where does our drinking water come from? Underground! Anything that goes on the ground can eventually end up in our drinking water. Discover how to grow beautiful landscapes without the use of harmful weed and bug killers. Thurston County Public Health will share at 2 pm about water-saving irrigation and low-maintenance landscaping ideas, and answer questions about your particular garden challenges.

Sunday

Pierce County

Featured: Mini Maestros from the Tacoma Symphony

Fun concerts just for kids 2-8! It’s the perfect way to introduce kids to music and instruments. Our readers love these! Note from SFM: As of this writing, the show is ON; however, it will not open with an, “Instrument petting zoo,” this week. This week is the percussion show! Here is the fb event

Olympia

The Fisherman and his Wife at Olympia Family Theater

A familiar folk tale, a family, some fish and some wishes! Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows performed in the lobby and between 20-30 minutes in length- perfect for young audiences of 0-5 year olds and favorite grown ups!  Giggles guaranteed. Lobby opens 30 minutes before showtime; admission is 5.00 cash or check at the door (under 2 free with paying adult; allow time to park).

I think we have the most complete list of weekend family events for the South Sound you’ll find, but if you do something great I missed, get in touch!

I also super appreciate you supporting the site by mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to your friends and favorite businesses!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do February 29th and March 1st

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Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend? We have an amazing list of great things to do with your kids Saturday and Sunday!

Links are provided so you can confirm details before you head out! Thank you for doing that!

South Sound Kid's Calendar

Saturday

All Over 

Party City is having a Read Across America/Dr. Seuss event  We always suggest confirming participation at your local store before heading out.

Barnes and Noble story time Most area stores offer a story time for children 2-5 at 11am. We do suggest confirming with yours as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s Dr. Seuss themed fun today.

South King County

The Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo is back open  small, free aquarium with touch tanks for the kids! Discovery Day from 10am-2pm

African Music & Dance Showcase at the Renton Library 1PM

Join this talented group of musicians and dancers as they interweave contemporary and traditional West African dance with drumming, song and audience participation. All ages welcome

A Cultural Journey of Rhythm and Sounds at the Auburn Library 2-3PM

Concert featuring a gifted trio playing instruments from around the world. Explore rhythm and melody and even have a chance to participate! Fun for ages 3 and up!

Greater Pierce County

Read to a Dog – Read to Hooke or Ada! 12:00pm – 1:00pm at the Milton/Edgewood Library Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills.

Read with a Daffodil Princess 2:00pm – 3:00pm at the Eatonville Library Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Children’s Dental Health Day at the South Hill Mall 

10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the South Hill Mall. Children and their families are welcome and will receive free dental screenings, free fluoride varnish applications, free mouth guards, free gifts, face painting and other fun stuff. Come see the “Tooth Fairy” and get your tooth box. There will be special appearances by “Chompy the Carrot”, and “The Wisdom Tooth”.

Something’s Happening Saturdays 10:00am – 5:00pm at the Graham Library

Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

Read with a Daffodil Princess 11:00am – 12:00pm at the Sumner Library Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Read with a Daffodil Princess  11:00am – 12:00pm at the Graham Library Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st and runs through the 29th.

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Bring the family to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Up to two kids (ages 12 and under) are free with each paying adult on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29. Gate tickets only.

Tacoma-Also includes University Place and Lakewood

Chillin’ with Polar Bears at the Point Defiance Zoo

Special activities featuring Boris and Blizzard  Free with admission

Fern Hill Library book sale 

Free Family Shorts at the Blue Mouse Theater

Join the Blue Mouse for a block of seven family-friendly short films! Admission is FREE, plus Legendary Doughnuts will be providing free donuts for attendees! More info. on the titles via the link above or here.

Hilltop Healthy Kids Event

12-4 at People’s Community Center This free event features a live DJ, Free t-shirts, Free food, fun games, toys & prizes, free dental cleaning, free blood pressure screening, free haircuts and much more! more here

In Celebration of Black History Month – Fun with Children’s Books 11am-1pm at the Main Branch of the Tacoma Public Library

Join authors JD Davis and Jeff Cheatham II and meet Rodney Raccoon for this celebration of Black History Month. The authors will read from their books for children. This event is free and open to the public and will be held at the Main Branch in the Children’s Area on the 2nd Floor. Parking is always free on Saturdays.

90 Second Newberry  at Tacoma’s Rialto Theater.  It’s the  7th annual 90-Second Newbery Film Fest!

Watch short film adaptations of Newbery Award-winning books by youth film-makers from Tacoma and beyond at this fun, family-friendly film festival! Arrive early to walk the red carpet and meet the stars. King’s Books will be onsite with your favorite Newbery Award-winning books. Free! Register today for tickets through the Tacoma Arts Live Box Office. More info here

Family story time at Wheelock  Stories, music, activities and play for all ages. 10:30

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Baby Time at Moore  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

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays at  Mottet Branch 2:30-3:30

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. All ages.

Junie B. Jones the musical at Tacoma Musical PlayhouseSaturday, February 29 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, March 1 | 2 pm

Leap Into Science – Wind and Air  12:00pm – 1:00pm at the University Place Library Examine science concepts around air, wind and breath in short engaging stations with experiments and activities for young scientists.

Safeway opening in Lakewood balloon animals and other fun are mentioned

Sousa Spectacular A rousing program of works programmed by John Philip Sousa as conductor of the United States Marine Band, featuring military marches, transcriptions, and band accompanied solo pieces. more here Note-Kids and students under 18 are FREE (more info. on that on their fb event post).

Children’s show at the Science Dome 
Take the kids to the area’s only indoor planetarium. It’s great!

Gig Harbor

PenMet Parks Kids Night Outat Rosedale Hall

Games, movie, snacks, and ice cream. kids should bring a sleeping bag, blanket, and pillow to get cozy for the movie. Movie this month is Ralph Breaks the Internet. Registration and fees required. For kids at least 5 but younger than 12. 35.00; limited spots left.

Magical story time hosted by Tots on Their Toes and French Toast Theater

A Magical Reading adventure. Woodland Sunrise Bakery and Tots On Their Toes are teaming up to bring you an afternoon of reading and cookies. Take 30 minutes out of your busy day and enjoy a quaint setting with your little ones surrounded by fairies and garden gnomes. 12:30 4 spots left as of this writing Note from SFM: We aren’t familiar with this venue or their events, but they’ve been filling quickly, so you may want to get future ones on your radar. If you try one, we’d love a review!

Olympia

Olympia School District Players present The Music Man

Olympia Dance Festival

The 11th annual festival features over 200 local dancers performing ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, tap, jazz, ballroom, Middle Eastern, Irish, Chinese dance, and more!  This year’s festival will feature guest artists from the Cirque du Soleil.

Countdown to Kindergarten Eventwith North Thurston Public Schools

Countdown to Kindergarten is a fun event intended to support families with information on kindergarten readiness, registration, and successful transition tips! Come learn about our programs & complete the registration process! Visit the NTPS website for more info: https://www.nthurston.k12.wa.us/kindergarten

Mommy and Me Cookie Decorating Event Cookies and icing are made up for you ahead of time. Instruction and demonstration is brief. You will spend time just having fun decorating cookies. Take home 6 cookies at the end of class. Each “Mommy and Me” experience is priced at $45 per mom and child; each additional child is $10.00. Hosted by Glitter & Suede and The Sugar Canvas Boutique Bakery. Note from SFM: These venues are new to us. I’d love a review if you try one of their events.

Family story time at the Olympia Library

Book sale at the Olympia Library

“Beyond Mr. Yuk”  at the LOTT WET Science Center

Make samples of “green” cleaning products with safe ingredients to take home. And, join Thurston County Public Health to learn what products are safer for children and adults at a 2 pm presentation.

Sunday

South King County

African Music & Dance Showcase at the Southcenter Library Connection 3PM
Sunday, March 1, 2020

Join this talented group of musicians and dancers as they interweave contemporary and traditional West African dance with drumming, song and audience participation. Held in Macy’s Court. All ages welcome.

Harry Potter Crafts for Kids at the Kent Library 2PM  Family program, ages six to twelve with adult caregiver. Wear your house colors and bring the family for an afternoon of Harry Potter-themed crafts while enjoying the soundtracks of Harry Potter films. Please register; space and supplies are limited. There were spots available as of this writing.

Pierce County

Featured:  B – The Underwater Bubble Show presented by Tacoma Arts Live at the Pantages Theater 3PM Tickets: $29, $39, $45, $59 buy tickets

This modern fairy tale performance is inspired by childhood classics like Alice in Wonderland and The Little Mermaid. The show follows Mr. B, a creature of modern habits who feels like the world is moving too fast when he discovers a little aquarium that appears like magic inside his briefcase. He gradually becomes enchanted by the wondrous underwater world of Bubblelandia, which is full of seahorses, dragon fish, starfish, mermaids and other creatures. Taking cues from Cirque du Soleil, this visually spectacular event incorporates the latest in stage technology with lasers, low ground smoke, flying foam and a spectacular use of soap bubbles in various artistic ways, which simulate a breathtaking underwater atmosphere.  Very limited tickets!

CeCe Loves Science Event at A Good Book in Sumner

Come meet Kimberly Derting, one of the authors of the Cece Loves Science series. She’ll be here promoting her new Cece level reader, PUSH AND PULL. We’ll have snacks and a fun science activity for the kids. Along with a reading. Did we mention snacks? There will be snacks.

This is a ticketed event ($5), but your ticket includes a copy of the Cece Loves Science Push and Pull (I Can Read Level 3) book.

Note that this event is most appropriate for those young readers who are already enjoying Leveled Readers. Please plan accordingly

Circus Sundays at 7 Seas in Gig Harbor

Watch acrobatic feats from the talented Ethereal Arts Northwest crew while sipping your favorite 7 Seas beer. Free for all ages to enjoy.

Junie B. Jones the musical at Tacoma Musical Playhouse

Saturday, February 29 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, March 1 | 2 pm

Family yoga at Tuladhara Yoga Studio Lakewood Sliding scale pricing

I think we have the most complete list of weekend family events for the South Sound you’ll find, but if you do something great I missed, get in touch!

I also super appreciate you supporting the site by mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to your friends and favorite businesses!

South Sound Weekend Kids Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do February 22nd and 23rd

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Who needs something to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve found family friendly adventures all around Tacoma and the rest of the South Sound for this Saturday and Sunday.

Links are provided so you can confirm details before you head out! Thank you for doing that!

South Sound Kid's Calendar

All Over 

Barnes and Noble story time Most area stores offer a story time for children 2-5 at 11am. We do suggest confirming with yours as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s Saturday today. Many stores also have a baby story time on Sundays you may want to check out.

South King County

The Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo is back open  small, free aquarium with touch tanks for the kids! Discovery Day from 10am-2pm

Unicorn princess at Kid to Kid in Kent

“Nerd Party,” at Page Turner Books in Kent

A celebration of nerd culture in downtown Kent, Wa. Cosplay contest and the 501st Star Wars group will be returning.

Greater Pierce County

Something’s Happening Saturdays at the Graham Library

Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

Create Your Own Magical Creature at the South Hill Library 10:30am-12pm

Who says magic doesn’t exist? Create your own magical creature in honor of the “Zoey and Sassafras” book series by local author Asia Citro.

STEM Fair and Art Show at Sumner Middle School

Two floors of Sumner Middle School transform into an exciting array of student science projects and artwork that showcase all aspects of STEM and various art media. Plus, enjoy interactive robotics, agricultural, environmental and arts activities, community booths, chess, food trucks and more. Note from SFM: I believe this is open to all.

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st and runs through the 29th.

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Bring the family to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Up to two kids (ages 12 and under) are free with each paying adult on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29. Gate tickets only.

Tacoma-Also includes University Place and Lakewood

Family story time at Wheelock 

Stories, music, activities and play for all ages. 10:30

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Baby Time at Moore 

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

HAL: Coding for Kids and Teens
at Main 12:30-2

Have a Look at Coding (HAL) is for Kids and Teens and is an expanded version of the Digital Media Lab’s popular Kids Code Club. It builds upon a student’s innate interest in gaming and computer technologies. Students will focus on core areas of computer programming in a self-paced, supportive environment.

For kids ages 8-12, HAL offers guided learning and individual exploration using various coding tools. Children will develop familiarity with general syntax and logical operations with class activities and demonstrations. There are also options for ages 13 and up. Registration required.

Bricks 4 Kids  Coding Workshop at Norpoint

Bring LEGO® Bricks to life with Coding!  You need to register for this one.

Kawaii Keychains – Youth Craft at the South Tacoma Library 1-2:15

Join us to make Kawaii (cute) keychains out of Shrink Plastic. Learn how to draw Kawaii faces and animals.  This monthly craft is aimed at 5th – 12th grade.

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays at  Mottet Branch 2:30-3:30

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. All ages.

Build This! Youth Engineering Club at the South Tacoma Branch 4-5:15

Join us for building and engineering challenges once a month. Use ingenuity and the scientific method to solve problems. Make new friends. Recommended for 4th to 12th grade. Be prepared to register as a club member when you arrive.

South Sound Family Formal

Tacoma’s First Family Friendly Formal Dance Party!!

Our community is stronger when families are supported and celebrated! At South Sound Family Formal, families build connections, make memories, and dance the night away together!

On February 22, 2020, families from all over South Sound Washington will come together for the first local family formal dance party! Hors d’oeuvres and activities will be provided for all ages. Photography packages will be available for sale. Special character guests, sing-alongs and dance demos will make childhood dreams come true.

South Sound Family Formal serves as a fundraiser for The Co-Lab, an upcoming, community-driven, family-minded project co-founded by The Pod Works and Tacoma Children’s School. Opening in 2020, The Co-Lab is a new co-working and event space that will be inclusive to all parents and offer on-site, drop-in childcare, enrichment classes, and workshops.

Kids Day at Soap and Clay

Learn about science and make bath fizzles! Registration and fees required!

Craft Saturday at the Job Carr Cabin Museum On Saturday 2/22, 1-4pm, we’re celebrating winter by making paper snowflakes. Drop by the Cabin for fun arts and crafts activities designed for children ages 3-9 and their families. Museum admission and events are pay-as-you-can.

Junie B. Jones the musical at Tacoma Musical Playhouse

Saturday, February 22 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, February 23 | 2 pm
Saturday, February 29 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, March 1 | 2 pm

Father Daughter Dance, Tacoma at St Luke’s Memorial Episcopal Church

open to all! Link takes you to ticketing Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 6 PM – 8 PM Dads & Daughters are out of this world!

Blast off for some fun at our annual dance. It will be an evening of music, dancing, refreshments, memory making and more! And don’t forget to kick around a few balloon planets!

Read with a Daffodil Princess at the Steilacoom Library 11am
Enjoy story time with a Daffodil Princess at your Pierce County Library! The princess will read stories, talk with children and be available for photos. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Daddy Daughter Dance, University Place

This event will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2020 from 6:30-9:00pm in the Curtis High School Cafeteria. Pre-registration is $45 per couple, $5 each additional child; at the door fee is $50 per couple, $5 each additional child.

Registration is available online (click here) or come on in to Curtis Monday-Friday between the hours of 7am-12:30pm & 1:30-3pm – Cash, Check, Visa and Mastercard accepted.

For more information contact Brittany Bibby in the Curtis HS Student Accounts office at 253.566.5710 ext. 2160 or email at bbibby@upsd83.org.

Olympia

Family story time at the Olympia Library

Kids Love Comics featuring Vera Brosgol at the Olympia Timberland Library

Join Danger Room Comics and the Olympia Timberland Library at this special event celebrating comics for kids! Kids, teens, and families will have the opportunity to meet cartoonist and picture book creator Vera Brosgol (creator of “Be Prepared”, “Anya’s Ghost”, “Leave Me Alone!” and “The Little Guys”), hear her talk about her creative process, and get books signed. Frank Hussey of Danger Room Comics will present comics in Reader’s Theater format.

Coastal Wolves: A Story of Resilience at the LOTT WET Science Center

Wolves around the world adapt to and survive in their changing environments. Discover what this means for some wolf populations during a presentation at 2 pm. Speak with Wolf Haven experts and enjoy wolf-related crafts all day.

Pan performance by workshop students at OFT 

Sunday

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st and runs through the 29th.

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Bring the family to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Up to two kids (ages 12 and under) are free with each paying adult on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29. Gate tickets only.

Junie B. Jones the musical at Tacoma Musical Playhouse

Saturday, February 22 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, February 23 | 2 pm
Saturday, February 29 | 11 am & 2 pm
Sunday, March 1 | 2 pm

Tet New Year Celebration 

hosted by Harvest Pierce County and Salishan Association

There will be traditional food, Vietnamese Classical music, Southeast Asian lucky seeds to celebrate the coming growing season with Harvest Pierce County, and a lineup of musical and dance performers TBA. Free; food donations accepted. one from SFM: New to the list! Let us know how this is if you go!

Know something fun we should add? Have a tip or a review? Get in touch! I also super appreciate you mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite businesses and event organizers!

South Sound Weekend Kids Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do February 15th and 16th

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Do you need something fun to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve found family friendly adventures all around Tacoma, Auburn, Lakewood, and your part of the South Sound for this Saturday and Sunday.

Links are provided so you can confirm details before you head out! Thank you for doing that!

South Sound Kid's Calendar

All Over 

Barnes and Noble story time Most area stores offer a story time for children 2-5 at 11am. We do suggest confirming with yours as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s The President of the Jungle today. Many stores also have a baby story time on Sundays you may want to check out.

McClendon Hardware Build A Birdhouse

Join us for this FREE kids’ workshop at any of our seven locations!

Budding ornithologists, here’s a flight of fancy! Kiddos will make a hand-crafted birdhouse using nothing but PVC pipe, imagination & non-toxic paint in a project perfect for every yard. No registration required for this free event. See you here!

South King County

The Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo is back open  small, free aquarium with touch tanks for the kids! Discovery Day from 10am-2pm

Creating Music: A Symphony of Fun 2-3PM at the Auburn Library Ages 5 and older, adults and younger siblings welcome. Join members of the Auburn Symphony for an interactive program about how music is composed.

The Nature of Poetry: Celebrating African American Poets

Saturday, February 15, 2020 3-4PM at Renton Highlands

Celebrate poetry written by African American poets and explore the theme of nature and how it inspired the poets to express their love for the seasons, the oceans, the trees and flowers. The workshop will also include guided writing activities to help students write about their favorite things in nature.

Auburn Avenue Kids: The Magic of Jeff Evans 2PM Tickets 10.00 

Kid friendly magic that’s fun for adults, too! He’s great! Tickets online or by phone.

BirdFest in Burien

Sweetheart Swim at the Covington Aquatic Center

Bring a friend to this 2-hour Valentine’s Day themed swim at Covington Aquatic Center on Saturday, February 15, 2020. This is event is for the entire family where guests can take on the inflatable octopus, play games, and win prizes. Drop-in admission is $5-per-pair of guests (accompanied children under the age of 4 are free). Arrive early to secure your space.

All ages welcome with adult.

Want to try block building on a larger scale? Come explore Imagination Playground’s big blue blocks. These lightweight foam blocks are great for creations large or small and even more fun when they come tumbling down!

Greater Pierce County

Read to a Dog – Read to Hooke or Ada! Saturday, February 15: 12:00pm – 1:00pm at Milton/Edgewood

Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills.

Something’s Happening Saturdays Saturday, February 15: 10:00am – 5:00pm

Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st and runs through the 29th.

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Bring the family to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Up to two kids (ages 12 and under) are free with each paying adult on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29. Gate tickets only.

Family Valentine Pool Party Eatonville

Tacoma-Also includes University Place and Lakewood

Family nature walk at McKinley Park10AM

Advance registration now required for these free walks with volunteer naturalists. Not suitable for strollers; perfect for ages 3 and up.

Pier Peer in Tacoma

Bring your family for an aquatic night-time adventure to explore mysterious marine life below the docks at the Point Defiance Marina. Learn about sculpin, herring, and many other fish that swim under the marina! Warm-up afterward with hot cocoa.

  • Pre-registration required.
  • Ages 8 and older
  • $10 per person

PDZA Love at the Zoo 9:30AM – 4:00PM

Watch animals enjoy special themed treats and activities  Included with admission. Feb. 15-16

The Grand Free Family Flick

The third Saturday of each month, The Grand Cinema welcomes guests of all ages to a family-friendly movie for free! Doors open at 9:30 am and movies start at 10:00 am. Seating is first-come, first-served. All children under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory today.

Blooming Kids Play Day and Shop

monthly free, community playday. Coffee and conversations are free and there is no pressure to purchase. Consign items; find new treasures.  BK will offer a special formal wear inventory in COLABoration with South Sound Family Formal at the STAR center, taking place the following Saturday. Come find your fancy attire for the big night!! The Pod Works will also have a selection of women’s formal dresses, yours with donation!

Parents Night Out Morgan YMCA

You do need to register and pay for these, but they are open to members and community members.  1st and 3rd Saturdays September-May if you want to try in the future.

LeMay Family STEAM at LeMay ACM Special activities the 3rd Saturday of the month included with admission

Free Astronomy Event with the Tacoma Astronomical Society

The Tacoma Astronomical Society hosts free public viewing sessions each month at Pierce College Ft. Steilacoom, Rainier Building, Science Dome  Indoor lectures, demonstrations, and workshops are available at public nights regardless of the weather. 7:30-9 On nights with clear skies, TAS volunteers provide telescopic observations of the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, double stars and more.  Free but donations gladly accepted

Mrs. Mary Church Terrell: A Remarkable Woman – Celebrate Black History Month
Saturday, February 15: 2:00pm – 2:45pm at the Lakewood Library Enjoy a live performance with Eva Abram as Mary Church Terrell, the daughter of formerly enslaved parents who became a leading activist for women’s suffrage and civil rights for African Americans.

Gig Harbor

Explore Your World Human Body Saturday, February 15: 11:00am – 12:00pm
at the Key Center Library

Learn what makes your fingerprints unique, use microscopes to investigate tissues and cells, and meet Cal, the PCLS skeleton.

Olympia

Family story time at the Olympia Library

Wetland Day and Treatment Plant Tour at the LOTT WET Science Center

What do wastewater treatment plants and wetlands have in common? They improve water quality! Celebrate wetlands and tour our wastewater treatment plant at 1 pm. Tour participants must be 10 or older and wear sturdy closed shoes.

Number the Stars at Olympia Family Theater

Read to a Dog  1:00pm – 2:00pm at the DuPont Library
Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills.

Sunday

Block Party! Lego at the FW Library

Block Party! LEGO® at the Library Sunday, February 16, 2020 2-4PM

The library provides the LEGO® bricks, you provide the fun! Build, create and share your masterpiece with fellow builders.

Daffodil Princess Princess Promenade Sunday, February 16th, 2020 at the Pioneer Park Pavilion Puyallup, WA Doors open at 2:30 pm, Program begins at 3 pm
Desserts and drinks will be served Tickets are available here  crowning ceremony; performance; first official appearance of the season by the princesses in their full regalia

PDZA Love at the Zoo 9:30AM – 4:00PM

Watch animals enjoy special themed treats and activities  Included with admission. Feb. 15-16
Know something fun we should add? Have a tip or a review? Get in touch! I also super appreciate you mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite businesses and event organizers!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do February 8th and 9th

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Here’s our weekend list full of family fun!

There are so many fun things to do with the kids this weekend-indoors and out! Make it a great one with our big list of everything family friendly in the South Sound this Saturday and Sunday!

Saturday

All Over

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores Most area stores do a free, weekly storytime at 11AM; however, we do suggest calling yours to confirm first, as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s “Always More Love,” for children 2-5 today.

South King County

The Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo is back open  small, free aquarium with touch tanks for the kids! Discovery Day from 10am-2pm

Free kids art project at Rusty Raven

Enumclaw Rotary father/daughter dance

Tickets here.  There is still availability as of this writing.

Greater Pierce County

Culture and Arts Festival at the Karshner Museum

The Karshner Center in Puyallup presents another Culture & Arts Festival: Black History Month.

This free, family friendly event features a full spectrum of African American history though music, dance, theatre and art. There will be performances by Maya Soleil Tradition, Music Soulstice and Book-It Repertory Theatre. Learn traditional fold art projects, African dance movers, join a drum circle and make crafts you can take home. Note from SFM: These are always well done and lots of fun for the kids!

Friends of the Buckley Library Book Sale

Friends of the Graham Library Book Sale.  10:00am – 3:00pm

Something’s Happening Saturdays at the Graham Library 10:00am – 5:00pm

Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st!

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Weekends, February 1-29, 2020
9:30 am-3 pm

Bring the family to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Up to two kids (ages 12 and under) are free with each paying adult on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29. Gate tickets only.

Orting Chocolate Stroll I’m not sure how fun these would be for kids. Anybody know?

Tacoma

Asian Pacific Cultural Center Celebration

Join APCC for their annual New Year Celebration featuring the beautiful and colorful country of Vietnam at the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall. Free! Booths, games, hands on activities, live entertainment, demos and much more. There will also be tasty food and some retail booths with items for sale.

Eastside Nature Hour

Monthly nature program!  Come discover rocks in all shapes, sizes and colors. Enjoy crafts, stories, hands-on activities and time outside studying rocks. Registration required. Check-in at the front desk of the Eastside Community Center. $1 per person per program or ask about joining the Nature Club!

Family story time at Wheelock 10:30

Family story time at Moore10:30

Baby time at Moore 11:30

Hal: Coding for Kids and Teens at Main 12:30-2

Have a Look at Coding (HAL) is for Kids and Teens and is an expanded version of the Digital Media Lab’s popular Kids Code Club. It builds upon a student’s innate interest in gaming and computer technologies. Students will focus on core areas of computer programming in a self-paced, supportive environment. Options for 8 and up. Registration required for this one.

STEAM Saturdays at Mottet2:30-3:30

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. All ages.

Children’s program at the Science Dome  Great, low cost option for kids. Educational and indoors. The fb event page is here. Two children’s show times. Theme is Cosmic Menagerie. There is also an all ages option.

African-American Storytelling 12:00pm – 12:45pm at the Tillicum Library

Celebrate Black History Month with Kimi Ginn as she performs stories exploring the Civil Rights Movement, including a Rosa Parks dramatization and a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.

Olympia/Dupont/Lacey

Jeff Evans – Magic Show!2:00pm – 3:00pm at the Dupont Library Join us to enjoy the amazing magic of Jeff Evans! Fun for the whole family; under 8 with an adult. Note from SFM: He’s great!

Hero Hoops Classic

The “Hero Hoops Classic” is coming to Marcus Pavilion at St. Martins University on Saturday, February 8 at 2 PM. Playing for the basketball bragging rights of Thurston County will be our local Law Enforcement team vs. the North Thurston School District Employees team. Tickets are $10.00 (adult), $5.00 (students), and children under 5 get in free. Your ticket is also good for general admission for the following St. Martins doubleheader directly after HHC.

Family story time at the Olympia Library

“Puget Sound, We Love You,” at the LOTT WET Science Center

Come celebrate Valentine’s Day with fun art projects expressing your love for Puget Sound and all the amazing creatures living in it.

Number the Stars at Olympia Family Theater

 Gig Harbor 

Painted Rock Valentines at the Key Center Library 1:30

Let your valentine know they rock! Drop in and paint a rock to give to someone you love or to leave somewhere to brighten someone’s day.

Sunday

Tacoma/Puyallup/Gig Harbor/Greater Pierce County

Featured: Mini Maestros Jungle Jams at UPS

They’re back! Our readers have loved these concerts just for kids! They’re a perfect way to introduce your 2-8 year olds to music and instruments. Plus, it’s indoors! Woot!

Today Jungle Jams will take your little adventurers into the deep, dark jungle! They’ll learn how instruments can sound like animals and about high and low sounds. Little jaguars and toucans welcome!

Mini Maestros is an interactive family concert series for children ages 2–8 years old.Concert time is 2:30 p.m. with an instrument petting zoo at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 for kids, $10 for adults in advance at symphonytacoma.org, with remaining tickets at the door. Get your tickets here! at University of Puget Sound, Schneebeck Hall Featuring the Brass Quintet this week.

Lincoln District Lunar New Year

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Lincoln District on Sunday, February 9th 2020 from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Activities, lion dancers, and other fun is advertised.

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st!

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Parent/Child Dance at Sumner Y

This is open to members and community members, but check first as registration may be closed/full.

Olympia

Number the Stars at Olympia Family Theater

Know something great we should add? Have a tip or a review? Get in touch!

I also super appreciate you mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit!

South Sound Weekend Kids Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do February 1st and 2nd

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Here’s our weekend list full of family fun!

Looking for some fun things to do indoors with the kids this weekend? Or maybe you’re ready to brave the rain to get out of the house? Either way we have you covered with a great list of fun things to do with your family! As always, links are provided so you can confirm event details before you head out! Thanks for doing that!

Saturday

All Over

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores Most area stores do a free, weekly storytime at 11AM; however, we do suggest calling yours to confirm first, as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s a celebration of Elmo’s birthday today.

South King County

Here are KCLS library events today.

Kick Off the Cons in Renton

Greater Pierce County

Puyallup Library Celebration

Come help celebrate the completion of the new Kiwanis Imagination Station children’s area at the Puyallup Library, along with the new Pollinator and Rain Demonstration garden. Refreshments will be served. The ribbon cutting will be followed by a performance from Eric Ode, award-winning entertainer. Ribbon cutting at 10AM; concert at 11

Something’s Happening Saturdays

at the Graham Library
Something’s going on all day at the Graham Library! Will it be games? Crafts? Building? Drop by and find out!

There is a daddy/daughter dance tonight through Puyallup Parks and Rec, but the link isn’t working for me, so I think it’s probably full. You can contact them to check Here’s the rest of the Daddy/daughter dances  coming later this month.

Valentine Origami  11:00am – 12:00pm at Buckley Library
Craft and fold a valentine for your friends and family.

Read to a Dog – Read to Hooke or Ada!
Saturday, February 01: 12:00pm – 1:00pm at Milton/Edgewood Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills.

STEAM Explorers – Catapults  1:00pm – 2:00pm at the Summit Library Build a catapult out of basic materials. All supplies provided. For ages 7 and older.

Valentine Origami at the Bonney Lake Library  2:00pm – 3:00pm Craft and create a valentine for your friends and family.

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st!

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Tacoma

Play, Grow, and Discover at Wheelock 10:30

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Baby time at Moore 11:30

STEAM Saturdays at Mottet2:30-3:30

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. All ages.

HAL: Coding for Kids and Teens at the Main Library 12:30

Have a Look at Coding (HAL) is for Kids and Teens and is an expanded version of the Digital Media Lab’s popular Kids Code Club. It builds upon a student’s innate interest in gaming and computer technologies. Students will focus on core areas of computer programming in a self-paced, supportive environment.

Valentines and Roses – Youth Craft at the Main Library 2pm

Join us to make Valentine Cards and Duct Tape pen roses for ourselves or those we love.  This monthly craft is aimed at 5th – 12th grade.

Fern Hill Branch 70th Anniversary Celebration2-5pm

Please join the staff at the Fern Hill Branch Library for the 70th-anniversary celebration of your community library on Saturday, February 1, 2020. There will be a presentation by the Tacoma Historical Society at 2:00pm followed by a reception with cake, coffee, and tea. We hope to see you on this festive occasion.

Children’s program at the Science Dome “Motions and Patterns.” Great, low cost option for kids. Educational and indoors.

City of Lakewood Martin Luther King Celebration 

Gig Harbor

Cook to Learn at the library 10:30am – 12:00pm
Learn easy tips and tricks for cooking with your youngster, and discover along the way that math is everywhere in the kitchen! For ages 2-6 and their families. Snack provided. You do need to register for this one. There are 7 spots left as of this writing!

Learn about Beautiful, Bustling Beaches at the LOTT WET Science Center

Join Nisqually Reach Nature Center to discover and touch Puget Sound creatures! Explore the crazy defense mechanisms and wild feeding habits of these creatures during a 2 pm interactive presentation. Create beautiful ocean-themed jewelry all day to remind you of Puget Sound’s vivacious beaches!

Number the Stars at Olympia Family Theater

Block Play 11:00am – 12:30pm at the Dupont Library
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.

Sunday

Tacoma/Puyallup/Gig Harbor/Greater Pierce County

Wild Child Weekends at Northwest Trek 

Wild Child Weekends is the perfect time to get your own kids close to nature at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where two kids 12 or under get in FREE for every adult paying general admission at the front gate on weekends, Presidents’ Day and Feb. 29.  Starts February 1st!

Feeling cabin fever? Northwest Trek is the best place to work out the winter wiggles. Ride a heated tram through our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to spy moose and bison. Stretch your wings at Eagle Passage. Build a stick fort. Slide down a rope or climb a stump at Kids’ Trek. More here

Olympia

Celebrate World Wetlands Day at the Puget Sound Estuarium

Come celebrate World Wetlands Day at the Estuarium Sunday, February 2nd, during our weekend open hours. Learn about the Puget Sound’s wetland ecosystem as we explore its vibrant biodiversity.

Open hours activities include…

  • Wetland inspired arts & crafts
  • A talk with our aquarist about the Estuarium’s rough skinned newts, Fig and Fiona!

Number the Stars at Olympia Family Theater

Family Dance Night at Fusion Physical Therapy

Family Dance is two hours for fun music and dance activities for all ages. Structured dance activities are interspersed with free dancing to music. We’ll have popcorn, props, and a variety of music. You bring your creative enthusiasm, ability to be barefoot, and a piece of favorite music if you like. This is a family event not a drop off class. $20 for your family any size or flavor, or pay what you can. Note from SFM: Found on fb and new to us, but it looks open to all? 

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