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

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It’s a great weekend for big, free fun!!

I’m still adding a few events and details, but I didn’t want to wait a second longer to get this up for you! Check back at about 9AM for updates.  Have a great one!

Saturday 

All Over

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Michael’s Crafting Events 

See, “Kids’ Club,” for details. Check out their, “Camp creativity,” events, too!

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

It’s Moon’s First Friends at most locations

South King County

Meet Paw Patrol at Learning Express

PAW Patrol is back in town! They’re visiting the toy store for a send-off party as Season 7 wraps filming and the crew breaks for summer. Get a photo with CHASE, MARSHALL, SKYE, and RYDER! 1-4pm

Maple Valley Days

Big, small town fun! Also Sunday

Summer Health Fair at Seattle Children’s South

Free bike helmet fittings while supplies last, fire truck tours, and much more

Family Safety and Health Day at the FW Farmer’s Market

Black Diamond Camps Adventure Day

Free and open to the public; fill out the waiver in advance

Summer reading kick off party at the Renton Library

There is also a rainbow carnival/Pride party today

Space 101: Introduction to Space Workshop at the Auburn Library

Get ready for 45 minutes of hands-on fun and engaging activities as you learn about the planets and the basic principals that govern our solar system. 2pm for ages 5-10

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

It’s Spiderman:Into the Spider-Verse at 2pm
June 8-9, 2019 Saturday / Sunday
** On these days only, fishing licenses are not required.Bring the Whole Family! Fish, BBQ, Picnic in the Park, Kids Playground, Horse Shoes, Bad Mitten & Swimming. Shop from our General Store.$5 Day~Use Fee per Person $5 Boat Launch Fee

Farm Days at Left-Foot Farm

Left Foot Farm in Eatonville Is Hosting Farm Tours Throughout The Summer! 20.00/family; link has details

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Craft Saturday at the Job Carr Cabin Museum

Drop by Job Carr Cabin Museum for their monthly Craft Saturday event. Activities are designed for children ages 3-9 and their families.

Today they’ll have a variety of scavenger hunts available for all ages to explore Old Town Park and the Old Town Tacoma neighborhood. Admission to the Museum and all events are “pay as you can.”

Donuts with Dad at Nordstroms at the Tacoma Mall

Free donuts and crafts

Family Saturday at the Washington State History Museum

Special activities included with admission It’s a train theme today!

Saturday morning cartoons at Fern Hill 

Family story time at Wheelock Library

Enjoy free fishing weekend at the Point Defiance Marina

Grab your fishing pole and enjoy the Washington State’s Free Fishing Weekend.

No license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington State on June 8 & 9.

Visit the Point Defiance Marina Complex for:
– Fishing and boating tutorials every hour on the hour from 11 am-5 pm
– Special deals on hot dogs
– Free boating hand-outs
– Discounts on boat rentals (75% off boat and motor rentals) Limited to availability.

Please note: While no licenses are required on Free Fishing Weekend, other rules such as size limits, bag limits and closures will still be in effect. Anglers will also be required to complete a catch record card for any salmon, steelhead or sturgeon caught.

Kids Day at the Proctor Farmer Market

Eastside Nature Hour

Join Tacoma Nature Center staff at the Eastside Community Center for a monthly nature program and learn about plants and animals, create fun crafts, and go outside to observe nature. $1.00/person or join the Eastside Family Nature Club for $20 and participate for free for the whole year!

Second Saturdays from 2-3 pm
Check in at the reception desk at Eastside Community Center

Anime Club at the Main Branch for ages 13 and up

Roominate at Mottet  Register for this one 8 spots left as of this writing

.Gone Fishing event at Bass Pro Shops

Catch and release pond, free photo download, and other fun

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Gone Fishing event at Cabela’s

Two weekends full of activities, games, crafts, seminars and giveaways!

June 8 and 9, 15 and 16:
* Free catch and release pond from 1-4 both days
* Free photo download with fishing theme
* Free “Nibbles and Bites” magazine to the first 100 at the pond
* Free “Gone Fishing” tin door hangers for the first 75 kids at the fish pond each day
* Saturday Only! Free stress fish to the first 100 kids at the pond
* Free “First Fish” certificate to the first 100 kids at the fish pond
* “Let’s Go Fishing” hanging bobber craft from 1-4 both days.

Let’s Play Shows at Olympia Family Theater   Short shows perfect for the youngest audiences Aesop’s Fables today and Sunday

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center for  a “Soil Safari,” today.

Put on a lab coat, grab a magnifying glass, and dive into the world of decomposers. Examine some of nature’s hardest workers – fungus, bacteria, and insects! Attend a 2 pm presentation or check out the “bug lab” throughout the day.

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

Ride the trolley! It’s back!

Waterfront Walking Tours

Join tour guides from the Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance, Harbor WildWatch and Harbor history Museum for free, guided walking tours of the downtown waterfront during the summer months!
At 10 am Saturdays, this exciting new tour features a focus on wildlife of the area and the intriquing history of Gig Harbor’s waterfront. This free, family-friendly tour is 1.3 miles for two hours on mostly flat grades and is a one-way trip through downtown Gig Harbor with stops at scenic points of interest.

From Beach to Forest-Guided Nature Walk

June 8th 2019 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am

(253) 265-3606
Location: Kopachuck State Park

Enjoy National Get Outdoors Day with a Free Day in the park and a guided nature walk! Meets near the beach; bring water and be able to walk trails uphill.

Help with a beach clean-up and be part of a human Orca mural. I believe you need to RSVP for this pre Ocean Fest event

Sunday

South King County

Maple Valley Days

Puyallup/Graham

Free talk and book signing in partnership with Puyallup Public Library.

Continue a Year of Reading with the next installment of Pierce County READS featuring Imbolo Mbue, author of the best-seller and Oprah Book Club selection “Behold the Dreamers.”

June 8-9, 2019 Saturday / Sunday
** On these days only, fishing licenses are not required.Bring the Whole Family! Fish, BBQ, Picnic in the Park, Kids Playground, Horse Shoes, Bad Mitten & Swimming. Shop from our General Store.$5 Day~Use Fee per Person $5 Boat Launch Fee

Tacoma

Ocean Fest at the Foss Waterway Seaport

Great event! Booths, science fun, water activities and more. It’s a great, FREE family event! Don’t miss it!

Enjoy free fishing weekend at the Point Defiance Marina

Grab your fishing pole and enjoy the Washington State’s Free Fishing Weekend.

No license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington State on June 8 & 9.

Visit the Point Defiance Marina Complex for:
– Fishing and boating tutorials every hour on the hour from 11 am-5 pm
– Special deals on hot dogs
– Free boating hand-outs
– Discounts on boat rentals (75% off boat and motor rentals) Limited to availability.

Please note: While no licenses are required on Free Fishing Weekend, other rules such as size limits, bag limits and closures will still be in effect. Anglers will also be required to complete a catch record card for any salmon, steelhead or sturgeon caught.

.Gone Fishing event at Bass Pro Shops

Catch and release pond, free photo download, and other fun

Ft. Steilacooom Museum is open for summer tours Sundays 1-4

Olympia

Gone Fishing event at Cabela’s

Two weekends full of activities, games, crafts, seminars and giveaways!

June 8 and 9, 15 and 16:
* Free catch and release pond from 1-4 both days
* Free photo download with fishing theme
* Free “Nibbles and Bites” magazine to the first 100 at the pond
* Free “Gone Fishing” tin door hangers for the first 75 kids at the fish pond each day
* Saturday Only! Free stress fish to the first 100 kids at the pond
* Free “First Fish” certificate to the first 100 kids at the fish pond
* “Let’s Go Fishing” hanging bobber craft from 1-4 both days.

Let’s Play Shows at Olympia Family Theater   Short shows perfect for the youngest audiences Aesop’s Fables today and Sunday

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

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

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It’s a great weekend for big, free fun!!

Saturday 

All Over

Free day at Washington State Parks in honor of National Trails Day; Fees are also  waived at forest managed sites today but I haven’t confirmed yet (Fees still apply at National Parks and other sites).

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Michael’s Crafting Events 

See, “Kids’ Club,” for details.

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

“Lambslide,” activities and stories at most locations

South King County

Duvall Days All kinds of small town fun

Summer Reading Kick-Off! at the Kent Library

Sign up for Summer Reading, try some fun activities, then enjoy the rhythms and energy of Cuban Salsa with La Clave Cubana at 3pm with an interactive performance. 2-4pm Registration not required.

Teddy Bear Clinic with Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority

Summer Kickoff Lakeland Hills found on fb; event for Lakeland Hills neighbors

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

Dozer Day at the Fairgrounds

This is a ticketed event, but we’ve heard it’s great! Kids get to explore all kinds of dozers and big rigs.

Thrifty Kids Toy Sale at Meeker Elementary

Check Out Washington with a Park Ranger at the South Hill Library 2-3PM
Join us for an interactive program with a Washington State Park ranger. Learn about Washington trees and wildlife, as well as different state parks in our region. All ages.

RooFest Join Greyhound Pets of America Greater Northwest for a full day of fun for the whole family. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and as always, every penny raised goes toward the care of our retired racing Greyhound foster dogs

Come sing along with students from the Rogers High School Drama Department as they perform kid-friendly songs from 12 different Broadway musicals! ADMISSION IS FREE! Donations will be accepted to help send our 3 Drama State Champions to the International Thespian Festival at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Almost summer book sale at Fern Hill

Coloring and crafts at Swasey 10am

Family story time at Moore 10:30

Sensory Exploration – Space at Wheelock

Join us for a  space themed sensory experience for toddlers and preschoolers. 10:30

Crafts of the Past at Ft.Nisqually

Meet modern practitioners of 19th century artistic traditions as they share the methods and materials of their work. Free with admission.

Held on June 1, July 6, and Aug. 3.

World Ocean Weekend at the Point Defiance Zoo

Special activities included with admission

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. In these weekly hands on programs we will explore, build, and create fun and imaginative projects. All ages. 2-3PM

Ongtupqa: Hopi Music and Cultural Connections to the Grand Canyon a the Main Branch of the TPL

A celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Grand Canyon’s designation as a national park, with highlights of the new film Ongtupqa, showcasing Hopi music and unique cultural perspectives of the Hopi people. 1-2:30 The 20 minute edit of the film will be followed by Hopi flute music, an opportunity to interact with the flutes, and a Q&A period.

Duck Daze in University Place

From their fb page: The fun kicks off at 10 a.m. with the popular Duck Daze parade. Be sure to secure your spot along the parade route, which starts at the corner of 27th Street and Bridgeport Way and continues south to 37th Street, ending at West Pierce Fire & Rescue’s Fire Station 31 .

This year’s event will include several new features and the return of several favorites, including:

– A static display of UH-60M Blackhawk and AH64E Apache helicopters at the Fire Station, courtesy of U.P.’s Community Connector Partner, the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade
– Local vendors in Market Square
– Bike helmet and life jacket fittings by Fire Station 31 personnel during their Open House
– Watermelon eating contest, courtesy of West Pierce Fire & Rescue
– Live music on the square
– Balloons, face painting, activities for kids and carnival treats-note from SFM: believe you’ll find this at the UP Library.

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Lacey Duck Dash!

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center for “Ready, Set, Go” today

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s time to build! Compete in engineering challenges all day. Make paper airplanes, balloon-powered cars, and much more.

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

Martime Gig Festival! 

Two full days of entertainment and fun on the waterfront downtown! You can use the trolley to get around!

Sunday

South King County

Cupcake Celebration! at the Auburn Library 

All ages welcome, ages 5 and younger with adult.
Presented by Chef Laurie Pfalzer.
Celebrate the start of Summer Reading! Drop in to the library to decorate a cupcake. Chef Laurie will prepare cupcakes, frosting in various colors and guide you through some fun decorating tips with pastry bags. Finish your cupcake with sprinkles and then enjoy. 1:30-2:30; supplies limited

HawkFest at Emerald Downs

Pierce County

Dozer Day at the Fairgrounds

This is a ticketed event, but we’ve heard it’s great! Kids get to explore all kinds of dozers and big rigs.

Tiptoe through the tide pools

low tide exploration at Titlow Beach. Free!

World Ocean Weekend  at the Point Defiance Zoo

Special activities included with admission

Martime Gig Festival! 

Two full days of entertainment and fun on the waterfront downtown! You can use the trolley to get around!

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

Win a Week of Art Camp in Puyallup

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Art Summer Camp In Puyallup

Update-This contest is now over, and our winner has been notified. Didn’t win? There are still spots in Fred’s Creative Kids Camps, and they really are a great deal! They’ve been offering some, “Flash sales,” on some of their camps via their Fb page, so keep an eye there, too!

Are you looking for a great art day camp near Puyallup? Fred’s Creative Kids is a great summer camp for art lovers, and it’s right at the Fred Oldfield Center at the fairgrounds. Their camps are super fun, and a great deal!  You can check out all the fun weekly themes below.

And today we’re giving away a week of camp!!! Woot!! How crazy awesome is this?? My older son did camps here and absolutely loved them.

Here is a little more scoop, but make sure not to miss the giveaway at the bottom! PS Even if you don’t win, I’d think about signing up for at least one. Their camps are a seriously good deal, and you know I know good deals around here! 

Offering 8 Fun Art Camps!Now including Fridays!

  • Monday – Friday from 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • $105 for each summer art camp (10% off before June 1, 2019, use code: “EARLYBIRD2019”)
  • Camp is open to grades k-12 (Some camps are offered for specific ages, see descriptions below)
  • A snack will be provided each day
  • Art can stain, so please wear appropriate clothing
  • Exciting, challenging & rewarding!
  • Registration closes Thursday for the following week of camp

Summer Art Camps Overview 2019

Week 1: July 8-12 — (TWO CAMPS OFFERED) Craft n’ Creations & Imagination Activation (10 & up)
Week 2: July 15-19 — American Indian Camp
Week 3: July 22-26 — (TWO CAMPS OFFERED) Fun With Art & Teen Expressionism (12 & up)
Week 4: July 29 – Aug 2 — Dirty Hands & Messy Faces
Week 5: Aug 5 – 9 — Paint Paint Paint
Week 6: Aug 12 – 16 — Creative Drawing

Registration closes Thursday night at 11 pm for the following week of camp. This gives our staff time to prepare and organize materials for the start of camp Monday. If you are interested in registering your child but missed the Thursday cut off, please call 253-752-9708 to see if any camp spots are available.

Enter To Win!

*Important: By entering to win you agree that we can share your email with Fred’s Creative Kids so they can tell you about other fun classes and camps periodically.

All entries should be left as comments on this post. Leave them as separate comments to improve your odds. Please make sure you leave an email you check, so you don’t miss out if you are the lucky winner. 

 

South Sound Kids Bowl Free Summer 2019

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Kids Bowl Free is back around Tacoma and the rest of the South Sound for the Summer of 2019.

Are you looking for bowling alleys participating in Kids Bowl Free in Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, or elsewhere in the South Sound? We’ve got the list of all of them, including participating lanes at JBLM and in Yelm and Olympia.

If you’re looking for free or cheap summer fun with the kids, don’t miss this great activity.

Kids Bowl Free Federal Way, Burien, Puyallup, Tacoma, JBLM, Lakewood, Yelm, Olympia

This year, you don’t have to wait until school is out to sign up for Kids Bowl Free! In fact, we checked all the Tacoma and South Sound area Kids Bowl Free locations, and all of them are open for sign up now! Yep, you can start free bowling this week and bowl almost all summer long. Woot!

If you’re not familiar with this program, it’s way cool! Kids get TWO free games of bowling every day, all summer long, from Burien to Olympia! * You will have to pay the nominal shoe rental fee, but that’s usually just a couple bucks! Another option is to buy them some shoes if you plan on going every day.

There really is no catch to this program! When you register your kiddos, you’ll also be given the option to purchase a family pass for about $25. If you’d like to bowl along with the kids, this really is an excellent deal, but you’re in no way obligated to get the family pass in order for your kids to bowl for free. Just click the “No Thanks” button if you don’t want it.

South Sound Locations:

Hi-Line Lanes, Burien: May 1-September 30
Secoma Lanes, Federal Way: TBA; you can sign up to be notified
Daffodil Bowl, Puyallup: May 14-September 4
Chalet Bowl, Tacoma: April 29-August 31st  Note from SFM: We love this one!
Paradise Bowl, Tacoma: April 30-September 30
Tower Lanes, Tacoma: May 1-September 15
Bowlero Lanes, Lakewood: April 2-September 9
Bowl Area Lanes, JBLM: May 1-September 30
Sounders Lanes and Family Center, JBLM: May 1-September 30
Prairie Lanes, Yelm: May 1-October 15
Aztec Lanes, Olympia: April 10-July 28

How To Sign Up:

To bowl free, you’ll need to register your family. Go to Kids Bowl Free and select the bowling alley nearest you to register. You’ll receive coupons emailed to you for free bowling! Easy peasy!

Pro tip: If the kids are throwing all gutter balls, have the attendant put up the bumpers/rails!

We know lots of you do this program every summer. Be sure to pass it on to friends who might not know about it yet. We’d also love to read any tips you might have, and we’d love to hear about which alleys are your favorites.

Need more to do? We’re rolling out our whole summer guide this week! Stay tuned!

South Sound Weekend Kids Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do Memorial Day Weekend

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It’s a great weekend for family fun! We’re especially excited about the ice bumper cars at Sprinker Rec Center, but we also won’t be missing our hot dog at The Old Cannery! Read on for all kinds of fun things to do with the kids around Tacoma and the rest of the South Sound this Memorial Day Weekend.

*If you are looking for kid friendly Memorial Day observances, there is a link to a separate list of those at the bottom of this post!

Saturday 

All Over

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Michael’s Crafting Events 

Patriotic cookie decorating from 10am-12. 3.00/contact your store for availability.

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores featuring Aladdin today!

South King County

Paw Patrol Live is in Kent at the Showare Center Two show times today and one Sunday

Renton City Retro Gaming Expo

Old school gaming fun, vendors, and more. Kids 6-12 are 5.00. Kids 5 and under are free.

Meet Jasmine at Learning Sprout Toys 1-4

Space 101 at the Kent Library

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

Memorial Day tent sale and BBQ at The Old Cannery in Sumner

Free hot dogs and soda Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 12-3 plus balloon animals, a clown, free old time photos, and other fun.

Yoga Story Time at the South Hill Library 10:30

Yoga movements, books and songs for preschoolers! You do need to register for this one.

Family Movie Matinee at the Fife Library – Mary Poppins Returns
It’s a free screening of “Mary Poppins Returns.” Rated PG.

Read to a Dog at the Eatonville Library 3pm Kids can drop in for a little reading time with a patient, canine listener.

Farm Days at Left Foot Farm

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Food Forest Festival at Swan Creek Park

Looking for a free fun event that has fashion, music, food and art? The Food Forest Festival has all that and more! It is a free event sponsored by the City of Tacoma Neighborhood Innovation Grant and the Eastside Neighborhood Council. Found on Fb; new to the list

Ice Bump and Skate Memorial Weekend

Opening weekend for the new Ice Bumper Cars at Sprinker. You are encouraged to reserve in advance. Open skating and refreshments available as well. There are also times Sunday and Monday

Family nature walk at McKinley Park 10am  Advance registration is now available for these popular, free nature walks lead by volunteer naturalists. Full? Consider signing up for a future date.

Bass Pro Shops Kids Weekend 

The 25th and 26th kids can participate in free crafts, activities, and a catch and release pond. 12-5 and 12-4  Activities may vary by store location.

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

Bilingual Family Story Time – Come Play and Learn! at the Tillicum Library 12 Story times offered in Spanish and English. Stories, rhymes, singing, and fingerplays for the whole family.

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

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Sheepdog trails at Fido’s Farm

Gig Harbor

Street Scramble  90 minutes or 3-hours-On foot or bike!

Street Scramble Gig Harbor is the most popular Street Scramble of the year, and it’s free! Link has details on registration and everything else.

Sunday

South King County

Paw Patrol Live is in Kent at the Showare Center 

Pierce County

Memorial Day tent sale and BBQ at The Old Cannery in Sumner

Free hot dogs and soda Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 12-3 plus balloon animals, a clown, free old time photos, and other fun.

Historic Fort Steilacoom opens for Sunday tours

Note from SFM: I’m not totally sure if opening day is today or next week. Report back if you go!

Tacoma Giants Part II

12-2 8.00/person Take an immersive nature walk to some of the park’s tallest trees. Registration required. Full? Consider signing up for a future date.

Ice Bump and Skate Memorial Weekend

Opening weekend for the new Ice Bumper Cars at Sprinker. You are encouraged to reserve in advance. Open skating and refreshments available as well. Times Saturday, Sunday, and Monday

Bass Pro Shops Kids Weekend 

Kids can participate in free crafts, activities, and a catch and release pond. 12-4 Activities may vary by store location.

Olympia

Special morning of play at the Hands On Children’s Museum 

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

If you are looking for kid friendly Memorial Day observances, we have a separate list of those that will be up in just a bit. Thanks for checking back for that.

Monday

Memorial Day tent sale and BBQ at The Old Cannery in Sumner

Free hot dogs and soda Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 12-3 plus balloon animals, a clown, free old time photos, and other fun.

Ice Bump and Skate Memorial Weekend

Opening weekend for the new Ice Bumper Cars at Sprinker. You are encouraged to reserve in advance. Open skating and refreshments available as well. There are also times Sunday and Monday

Looking for kid friendly Memorial Day observances? We have a short round up here! 

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do May 18th and 19th

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It’s a great weekend for big, free fun!

Don’t miss free (0r cheap) festivals and fun all over this weekend!

Saturday 

All Over

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Michael’s Crafting Events 

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

South King County

Kent International Festival

“Rapunzel,” will be at Kid to Kid in Kent

Touch a Truck Federal Way

Fun, free event for your vehicle lovers!

Pet a Palooza in Auburn  Great fun for pets and their favorite humans.

Blue Poppy Day at the Rhody Garden in Federal Way

free event with entertainment, artists, and food trucks   While not specifically a kids’ event, the gardens should be lovely right now, and readers last year enjoyed this.

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

SpringFree Trampoline NW Kids Fair at the fairgrounds in Puyallup

Entertainment, trampolines, bounce houses,  character appearances, and lots more. Ticket prices at the door: 12.00 adults/7.00 kids 3-12; children 2 and under are free; 2.00 discount for military and seniors

Kickball with Cops in Orting

Bear tracks at NW Trek

Meet the grizzly cubs! Special activities included with admission.

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Spring Fairy Festival at Crescent Moon Gifts

Free family event around 6th avenue. Lots of entertainment and fun. Dress up encouraged!

Queen Victoria’s Birthday at Fort Nisqually

Rainier Dragon Boat Festival

The public is invited to watch the races at Thea’s Park. This is a free community event!

Best of Boat Racing at America’s Car Museum

Free Art Museum Admission

Fircrest Color Run

Whittier Elementary has partnered with the City of Fircrest for the 1st annual Color Run 5K and Kids Dash. Open to the public-I’m not sure about the procedure for walk-ups.

Armed Forces day at JBLM

Ray Evans Fishing Event at American Lake

Register online: tinyurl.com/KidsFishing2019 Note from SFM-I’m not sure if this is still open to new registrants.

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Lacey Spring Fun Fair

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

Mystical Enchanted Garden Festival 

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center and make Mother’s Day crafts today .

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

Pierce County Library Storywalk Grand Opening at Sehmel Park 10am

Kids Night Out Event

Outdoor Workshop- Creating Habitat In Your Backyard at Kopachuck State Park 11am  (253) 265-3606 Inviting wildlife into your backyard has several benefits to your family and our ecosystem. In this 45-minute Outdoor Workshop, you’ll learn how you can create a welcoming environment to wildlife and how your yard can become recognized as a Certified Wildlife Habitat by The National Wildlife Federation! Participants will also make their very own Toad House to get their backyard habitat started.

Sunday

South King County

Golden Dragon Acrobats perform in Auburn

Pierce County

Tiptoe through the tide pools

Bike Ride With Kidical Mass10:30am – 12pm
Starts/Ends at the Eastside Community Center (1721 E 56th St, Tacoma, WA 98404)

Join Kidical Mass for a 3.6-mile bike ride on the Salishan neighborhood streets and the newly paved Pipeline Trail. This route has some rolling hills, but the event is open to riders of all ages and abilities. Helmets required; kid pace; group ride

Foss Free Summer Concert

Olympia

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

Mom Reviewed: Defy Tacoma, New Trampoline and Indoor Play Space in Tacoma

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Are you wondering about the new indoor play and trampoline place in Tacoma?

It’s called Defy Tacoma, and now that the rain is back you may be wanting to check out this new place full of ball pits, launching decks, trampolines, and other way-cool things.

Defy Tacoma includes 35 trampolines and much more in a 30,000 square foot space.

Other fun things to do include Wipe Out, Battle Beam, Zipline, and a whole lot more.

Long time reader and site friend, Liberty, checked it out with her cool kids and graciously sent a report and these pics.

If you’ve been to similar area spots, she says it is much bigger. Her kids played for an hour, but she says she wished they had planned on an hour and a half or two hours because there was so much to do.  Ready to try it yourself? Here are some other tips:

Defy Tacoma Tips

  • You need special Defy Grip Socks. They’re 3.00, and you get to keep them. If you have the special socks with the rubber grippy thing from a similar place you might be able to use those, but I haven’t confirmed that.
  • There is a waiver form. You can speed things along by filling it out in advance.
  • You are asked to show up 30 minutes in advance of your time. Walk ups are welcome, but you may want to purchase tickets in advance.
  • There are open jump times (they call them, “Flights,”) every day.

This isn’t a cheap activity, but I think for the fun you’re getting for your money, it’s not bad, and yes, it’s in line with what I’d expect. I do want to alert you to a special offer for little ones that is a nice deal!

Defy Tacoma Pricing and Deals

If you have preschool or so age kids, I want to make sure you know about KidJump. 

If you have kids 6 and under you’ll want to check out this time from 9am-10am that is exclusively for littles and their fav grown ups. Kids get a discounted price, and one accompanying adult jumps free (one parent per paid child for the same hour).

Family Night also seems like a good deal, especially if you think about the cost of taking everybody to a movie or so on. Here’s the details on that

Family Night 

Bring your ENTIRE FAMILY (Immediate Family Members Only) for an hour, for only $45! Monday Nights from 5-9pm. No other discounts apply. Not valid during school breaks or holidays.

You can also ask about special deals for educational groups.

As you’d guess, Defy Tacoma also offers parties and other special events. You can read all about those and get any other scoop you need at their website (thanks for using our links to verify details before you head out)!

If you’ve checked it out, we’d love to know what you thought!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do Mother’s Day Weekend

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Saturday 

All Over

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Michael’s Crafting Events – Kids’ Club and Make Break are Mother’s Day themed today

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

South King County

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, Federal Way has special activities for moms and garden lovers Saturday and Sunday

Creme Brûlée Kids Consignment Sale at Kent Commons

Backyard Wildlife Festival in Tukwila

Journal Making with Recycled Materials Workshop at the Federal Way Library Ages 8 to adult. Presented by Seattle ReCreative.

Learn all about different types of journals, then craft your own personal journal using recycled materials. Drop-in program, no registration required.

Auburn Fiber Arts Fair: Weaving the Community Together through Crafts  at the Auburn Library 11am-4pm Knitting, weaving, quilting, sewing, spinning, crochet and more!  Enjoy free activities for all ages including hands-on workshops, demonstrations, exhibits, story time and crafts!

Kids can make a Mother’s Day craft at the Outlet Collection

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

Scale of the Solar System – Presented by Tacoma Astronomical Society

Family Movie Matinee – Black Panther

at the Fife Library 2-4pm PG-13

Farm Days at Left Foot Farm

Kids Fishing Derby at Rainbow Resort

8am to Noon is the annual Kid’s Fishing Derby!!  Ages 14 and under may participate. Bring mom out and enjoy the day and win some fun prizes. Hot dog lunch $5!!!  No entry fee; day use fees apply

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Half price Mom’s Day at the zoo! All moms will receive half-off general admission. Half-off tickets are only available at the gate.

Craft Saturday at the Job Carr Cabin Museum in Old Town Super cute kids’ events!

Planting Days in May at the Seymour Conservatory at Wright Park

An assortment of annual plants, houseplants and succulents will be for sale. Bring an empty pot or hanging basket and we’ll help you plant them.

Treat yourself, your mother or a loved one to the gift of Mother Nature!

Suggested donation $3 11am-2

Family nature walk at Titlow Park. 10am Advance registration is now required for these popular, free walks lead by naturalists. Not suitable for strollers; perfect for ages 3 and up. Full? Consider registering in advance for a future date!

Drop in Mother’s Day crafts at Wheelock and Mottet Libraries 

Eastside Nature Hour

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

Vietnamese Music Cultural Event – Không Quên Lời Cô Dạy: Traditional Instruments Workshop at the Parkland/Spanaway Library 3-4pm

Learn about Vietnamese traditional music instruments, culture and costumes.

Mehndi Madness at the Lakewood Library 2pm Explore the history of henna body art, and receive your own temporary tattoo. Due to limited space, free tickets will be available 30 minutes before the event. tweens and up

Mother’s Day at Bass Pro

Free photos with mom. Should also be at Cabela’s locations, but I haven’t confirmed that.

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Community Fun Fair and Kids Fishing Event at Columbus Park

Go, Dog, Go at Olympia Family Theater various shows and times through June 2nd

Snow White Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater Also Sunday

South Sound Opening Day Boat Parade

Wooden Boat Fair in Olympia Also Sunday

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center and make Mother’s Day crafts today .

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

Mother Son Dance Pen Met Parks Tickets still available as of this writing!

Roses and Rosedale: A Historical Walking Tour of Sehmel Homestead Park

Karen Larson | (253) 514-6338 | klarson@gigharborfoundation.org
Location: Sehmel Homestead Park

There are more than four miles of trails at Sehmel Homestead Park. This spring installment of Roses and Rosedale will take visitors to some of the loveliest spots in the park. Please meet at the flag poles, in front of the snack bar, across from Volunteer Vern Pavilion. This event is free, family friendly, lasting approximately one hour, and will be held rain or shine. 12-1

Sunday

South King County

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, Federal Way Tours, activities for kids, photo ops. Saturday and Sunday

Mother’s Day at Powell’s Wood

NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System
at the Renton Library 2-4pm

Presented by NASA JPL Solar System Program Ambassadors for Washington State Grades 1st-5th.
Are you interested in space’s mysteries? Join us as we explore space with an interactive NASA software that delves into more information about planets, spacecrafts, and much more!
First come, first served.

Pierce County

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do for May 4th and 5th

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Saturday 

All Over

Many Farmer’s Markets are now open. Find your fresh here!

Free Comic Book Day  Free comic books for kids at participating comic shops all over! Many library locations are also participating. We’ve listed those in the lists below. For store locations, head here!

Kids’ Club at Michael’s Stores 

Weekly crafts for kids. Click on, “Kids’ Club,” and input your zip code to navigate to your store for sign up and options!

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

11am It’s “High Five,” at most stores. We do suggest calling to confirm participation before you go. Some stores are also doing Star Wars events.

South King County

Meet Poppy at Learning Express Toys of Renton

Free comic book day at the  Auburn Library

Free comic book day at the Federal Way Library 

Fancy Nancy Soirée at the Algona-Pacific Library 1-2:30 Kids age 4 to 8 with a favorite grown up are invited to wear their fanciest dress up for a Fancy Nancy style party.Registration is required. Space still available as of this writing.

Spring Bloom Day at the White River Buddhist Temple Pick up spring plants for your garden and enjoy Japanese take on hot dogs and tater tots. Family activities for children’s day include: origami, Bon Odori dance, story telling, family meditation and Koto performance by Chiho Pewitt.

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

“Artists in Action.” Culture and Arts Festival at the Karshner Center

There will be many different art projects for you to make and lots of new techniques to try with potters, painters, glass blowers, and many other artists. This will be a wonderful day of fun activities and engaging projects for all ages. This is a free-family event.

Mother’s Day Gift Make and Take at Ben Franklin

10am-12; make a sign for 10.00

The Force Be With You

A Community Pop-Up Event on Saturday May 4th beginning at 10:00, with both the Puyallup Police Department and the Central Pierce Fire & Rescue. There will be crafts, games, photo booth, food, bounce house and a raffle. Hosted by Puyallup First Baptist; open to the public

Mommy and Me Tea at the South Hill Mall

Free Comic Book Day 2019

Stop by the Library from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and choose from a wide selection of comics for Free Comic Book Day.

It’s also-May the 4th Be With You with Star Wars movies and crafts. 

Friends of the Graham Library Book Sale 10am-4pm

Friends of South Hill Library Spring Book Sale

Gently used books and media at great prices. Proceeds help support library classes and events, and services. Friends members pre-sale 9-10 a.m. and $5 bag sale 2-4 p.m.

Free Comic Book Day at the Orting Library

Free Comic Book Day  at the South Hill Library

May the Fourth! at the Graham Library  10:00am – 11:30am

Drop by the library for Star Wars themed crafts, games and other activities!

Read With A Princess

Meet some of the wonderful young women who represent our community as Daffodil Princesses. The princesses will read stories and pose for pics (Bring your own camera), and are wonderful role models of scholastic achievement and community service.

Star Wars Day 5K in Bonney Lake

5k family fun to celebrate Star Wars. There will be prizes for first female, first male, and best costume. This event is not timed. Registration and fees required.

Bonney Lake High School presents the Adams Family Musical

Shows at 2 and 7pm

Free Comic Book Day at the Buckley Library 11am-3pm
Visit the library to get free comic books while supplies last. Variety of titles available for all ages.

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Tacoma Public Library events-There are a variety of TPL events today, including story time, May the 4th events, and more.

May the Fourth Be With You 5k

Are you a sci-fi fan who loves to run with the force? Get your favorite costume ready and join us for a 5k that loops around Wapato Park. Dogs on leash and strollers welcome. Registration and fees required.

Family nature walk at the Tacoma Nature Center

1-2pm Advance registration is now required for these popular, free walks lead by naturalists. Not suitable for strollers; perfect for ages 3 and up.

Ranger lead walk at at the Rhododendron Garden 1PM Reserve your spot in this free walk online. Not suitable for strollers; fun for kiddos over 3 and up.

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun!

3D Printing – Prep Your Print at the Parkland/Spanaway Library Bring your object file and staff will assist in preparing your object for the 3D printer. Register-Spots still open as of this writing.

Read with a Daffodil Princess at the Parkland/Spanaway Library 2pm 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 at the University Place 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.

Give and Grow Mom-a-Palooza

***UPDATE!! Address has been changed to 1721 E 56th St Tacoma, Wa 98404. At the Eastside community center in the Social Hall.*** Free margaritas and tacos at this fun event with lots of vendor moms. While not a kid event so much as a mom event, we love to support this fun group.

Read with a Daffodil Princess at the Tillicum Library 12-1

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.

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Olympia Waldorf May Faire

Olympia Family Theater’s after school workshop presents, Princess Who

After school workshop students age 8-14 perform in this fairy-tale mystery adventure! 1PM

Big Just Between Friends consignment sale  May 2nd-5th Score a bargain on gently used kids’ gear and duds. At Cooper Point Marketplace in the vacant Sports Authority site.

You can meet owls at Wild Birds Unlimited today

Lacey STEM Fair at Huntamer Park

school clubs and teams from all over Thurston County share their S.T.E.M. projects with hands on activities for kids, demonstrations, display, and more. On stage entertainment and hands-on activities. 10am-3pm Free event!

May the Fourth – DuPont Library’s 15th Anniversary! at the DuPont Library 1-3pm
Celebrate the DuPont Library’s 15th anniversary and everything Star Wars with trivia, games, crafts and prizes!

Family Storytime at the Olympia Library

Music, movement, and books for the whole family. 11am

Free Comic Book Day at Olympia Timberland

School’s Out Fashion Show at Capital Mall

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center and learn about nature journaling today .

Join the Capitol Land Trust at 2 pm for an interactive workshop about our unique ecosystems and how to create your own nature journal by sketching, writing poetry, and more! Related activities all day.

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

May The Forest Be With You-Forest Walk at Kopachuck State Park 10am

 60-minute walk through the trails of Kopachuck State Park. See and feel the ‘Force’ of the forest with spring growth and signs of new life all around and answer Star Wars Trivia along the way. Be prepared to climb the hills of the park, down to the water and up to the Interpretive trail. Starts from the parking lot near the information sign. Note from SFM: You will need a Discover WA Pass

Check Out Washington with a Park Ranger at the Gig Harbor Library 11am
An interactive program with a Washington State Park ranger. Learn about Washington trees and wildlife, as well as different state parks in our region. All ages.
Read with a Daffodil Princess at the Gig Harbor Library  2pm
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.

Relay for Life at Uptown 10am-3pm

The Gig Harbor Relay for Life is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The event is held in Uptown Gig Harbor and is Free for anyone wishing to attend. There will be plants for sale, live music, dog entertainment “Bark for Life”, activities for all ages and a free meal for cancer survivors and their caregivers at 10:30 am.

Sunday

South King County

May Open House Mountain Lodge Farm

Cinco de Mayo at Emerald Downs

Note from SFM: I’m not sure how family friendly this one is, but there are dancing horses and other entertainment scheduled. Let us know if you go!

Pierce County

Featured: Mini Maestros Peter and the Wolf

Don’t miss this last chance this season to see one of the fabulous Mini Maestros concerts! Classical music in a kid friendly format at UPS. Readers love these!

Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev’s 1936 classic Peter and the Wolf tells the story of a young boy living with his grandfather in a forest clearing, and the adventure he and his animal friends have when a wolf comes through the garden gate. This marvelous work introduces the different instruments in the orchestra, with each character portrayed by a different instrument or group of instruments.

Note: There is no instrument petting zoo for this performance.

Ranger-Led Nature Walk at Point Defiance 1:00 pm

Meet the Park Ranger at the Rhododendron Garden Pavilion for an exploration of the plants and animals in the special old-growth forest of Point Defiance Park. Not suitable for strollers; fun for ages 3 and up. Reserve your spot online.

Kids’ Day Workshop at Soap and Clay  Make bath bombs. Registration and fees required.

Olympia

Big Just Between Friends consignment sale  May 2nd-5th Score a bargain on gently used kids’ gear and duds. At Cooper Point Marketplace in the vacant Sports Authority site.

Special morning of the play at the Hands On Children’s Museum 9:00am – 10:00am

Hands On invites families of children with sensory sensitivities to join popular teacher Lahela Peterson and enjoy the museum before it opens to the public for “Special Mornings of Play”.

Led by museum educators, these are special events for families of children with autism or other special needs that provide a private, less over-stimulating time to experience the museum with other families who may share the same life experience.

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do April 26th, 27th, and 28th

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Friday

Paint to Learn at the Puyallup Public Library 

Families are invited to paint together on canvas, with a focus on school readiness and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math).

This program is open to all ages. Space is limited and registration is required. Call the library at 253.841.5454 to register. 3:45 today; also offered Saturday morning. If this one is full ask about upcoming opportunities.

Passport to the World at the Orting Library 2:30 Travel the world library style.

Olympia Arts Walk 

Olympia Arts Walk is a semi-annual community event celebrating the arts. Thousands gather in downtown Olympia for this unique event. The spring arts walk includes the incredible Procession of the Species on Saturday and a luminary event on Friday.

Link has maps you can view to plan out the most kid friendly events/locations.

Saturday 

All Over

Parks Appreciation Events  Area parks all over are hosting clean ups, plantings, and other opportunities to help out. There are just too many to list, but contact your parks dept. to see if your favorite could use some young volunteers!

Healthy Kids Day at YMCAs

Most all area YMCAs are offering a free, healthy kids day

Activities include swim times, helmet fittings, and other fun. Open to the public

Kids’ Club at Michael’s Stores 

Weekly crafts for kids. Click on, “Kids’ Club,” and input your zip code to navigate to your store for sign up and options!

Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores

South King County

Meet Captain America at Learning Express Toys in Renton

The Nature of Poetry at the Renton Highlands Library 3:30pm

The program will celebrate STEM poetry written by African American poets.  Explore the theme of nature and participate in writing exercises. Grades 4-12

Creating Music at the Auburn Library

Ages 5 and older, adults and younger siblings welcome. 2-3pm

Join members of the Auburn Symphony for an interactive program about how music is composed. Learn how different melodies and harmonies, rhythms, instruments and cool special effects can make very different music. Then, with the help of the musicians, we’ll try creating some music of our own!

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

Puyallup/South Hill/Orting/Greater Pierce

“Spring Local,” event at Karate Edge vendors, bounce house, other fun

Paint to Learn at the Puyallup Public Library  10:30 – 11:30 am

Families are invited to paint together on canvas. This program is open to all ages. Space is limited and registration is required. Call the library at 253.841.5454 to register.

Read With A Princess

Meet some of the wonderful young women who represent our community as Daffodil Princesses. The princesses will read stories and pose for pics (Bring your own camera), and our wonderful role models of scholastic achievement and community service.

Yoga Story Time at the South Hill Library 10:30am Yoga movements, books and songs for preschoolers! You do need to register

Family Movie Matinee at the Fife Library 2pm It’s  “Christopher Robin.” Rated PG.

Read to a Dog at the Eatonville Library 3-4pm

Kids can share a book with a furry friend while improving their reading skills.

 6am-Noon for ages 14 and under. Note from SFM: I believe this is open to the public, but you will have to pay a  day use fee. There is also a boat launch fee.

Annual kids’ fishing derby in Eatonville Lion’s Club event at SmallWood Park

Farm Days at Left Foot Farm Eatonville Email info@leftfootfarm.com or Text 253-370-6884 to confirm; $20 per family

Bonney Lake High School presents the Adams Family Musical

Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland

Family and Community Learning Academy at Lister hosted by TPS

6th Annual Family & Community Learning Academy (FCLA) for Tacoma Public Schools students and families. Free event with lunch and activities. I believe you do need to register in advance.

Family nature walk at Wapato Hills

1-2pm Advance registration is now required for these popular, free walks lead by naturalists. Not suitable for strollers; perfect for ages 3 and up.

Klahowya at Fort Nisqually

In 1855, Fort Nisqually was home to people from around the world and they greeted each other with the Chinook Jargon word “Klahowya.”

At this event all Pierce County residents are welcome with free admission for hands-on activities, performances and demonstrations of 19th century skills. Activities will be facilitated in multiple languages.

Family Storytime at Moore 10:30

Family Storytime at Wheelock 10:30

Family Storytime at Swasey 10:30

Cubetto at Mottet

Screenless coding robot that moves by placing pieces into a puzzle shaped slots. Arrow shaped puzzle pieces are color coded and each points to direction of movement. Child needs to distinguish green, red, and yellow colors OR straight, right, left arrows. 3-4pm; for ages 4-6; a helping adult is required, and the child only should be registered.

Spring into action at Oak Tree Park

Spring Into Action is a community festival celebrating Oak Tree Park, S. 74th and Cedar Streets, Tacoma. Volunteer opportunities, guided nature walks, food trucks, games and booths – happy spring! 10AM-3

Block Party at the Main Branch of the TPL

Block Party! Drop in and build with Legos©, Duplos©, Mega Blocks©, Straw Connectors and  Wooden Blocks 10:30-12:30

Slug Celebration Walk at Point Defiance 

Get to know the gastropods who call Point Defiance Park home!  11:30am Meet at the Rhododendron Garden Free Reserve your spot online

Pacific Seas Aquarium Celebration at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

Special activities included with admission

Read to a Dog at the Parkland/Spanaway Library 1-2pm

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

México Diverso at Pantages 3PM

Celebrate the diversity in our community as the Northwest’s most celebrated Ballet Folklorico company, Bailadores de Bronce, joins Trío Guadalevín in a celebration of Mexican culture. From the well-known dances and mariachi of Jalisco to the Afro-Mexican traditions of Veracruz and the Zapotec indigenous language of Oaxaca, the night will be packed with brilliant energy, mesmerizing movement, and compositions crisscrossing traditional styles.

Tickets: $12, $19, $29, $39 buy tickets

El Día de los Niños/El Día de los Libros – Children’s Day/Book Day at the Lakewood Library 2pm 

Celebrate childhood and reading with musicians Miho Takekawa and Diego Coy. Enjoy a concert featuring Japanese and South American folk music, as well as free books for children to take home. All ages.

Wayzgoose Festival

A community letterpress and book arts extravaganza at King’s Books.  Meet local printers and view their wares, print your own keepsakes, make paper and bind books. A highlight of the weekend is steamroller printing. Also Sunday

Norwegian Heritage Festival at PLU

The Norwegian Heritage Festival will be taking place throughout the Anderson University Center (AUC) on the PLU campus. There will be wonderful vendors selling handcrafted items, as well as delicious food. In the Scandinavian Cultural Center there will be Viking Reenactments among other great activities.

PAVE/PURPAS Book Fair at Lakewood Barnes and Noble

10AM-4PM Purchases help support organization and there will be information about area resources

See a children’s show at the Science Dome-the area’s only indoor planetarium. So fun! “Wild Weather,” is the current theme.

Tacoma Astronomical Society event-Space Rocks!

The Tacoma Astronomical Society hosts free public viewing sessions each month at Pierce College near Fort Steilacoom.  On nights with clear skies TAS volunteers provide telescopic observations of the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, double stars and more.  No charge; donations accepted.  9-10:30pm-an event for those with big kid bedtimes. 🙂

Lacey/Olympia/Dupont 

Olympia Arts Walk is a semi-annual community event celebrating the arts. Thousands gather in downtown Olympia for this unique event. The spring arts walk includes the incredible Procession of the Species on Saturday and a luminary event on Friday.

Link has maps you can view to plan out the most kid friendly events/locations

Family Storytime at the Olympia Library

Music, movement, and books for the whole family. 11am

P.A.W.S. to read at the Lacey Library

Kids can practice reading to a patient, canine listener

Sheepdog Trials at Fido’s Farm

I believe these are open to spectators. You may want to confirm details before you head out.

Read with a Daffodil Princess at the DuPont Library 2pm

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center and enjoy Family Fun for Arts Walk .

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Gig Harbor

Paddlers Cup

Annual community event features paddle racing for kayaks, canoes, stand up and prone paddleboards, outriggers and para-canoes, and dragon boat races. Also Sunday

Gig Harbor Arbor Day Celebration at City Hall 11am-1pm Free trees; refreshments, booths, crafts, and other fun.

Read with a Daffodil Princess at the Key Center Library 2:00pm – 3:00pm
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.

Sunday

South King County

Community Drum Circle at the Kent Library

Imagine a diverse group of people listening to professional instruction while drumming together on hand-crafted instruments… smiling, laughing, and sounding great! 2-3pm

Read With Rover at the Covington Library

Pierce County

Meeker Mansion cellar to attic tour

Floors not usually included in the tour are open today. If you have older kiddos, we did this tour last year, and it was interesting.

April Fix-it Fair at the Tacoma Nature Center

Fix-it Fairs are free, community-based events where you can get items repaired for free. While not specifically a kids’ event, this one is advertised as kid friendly and is hosted at the fun Tacoma Nature Center.

Wayzgoose Festival

A community letterpress and book arts extravaganza at King’s Books.  Meet local printers and view their wares, print your own keepsakes, make paper and bind books. A highlight of the weekend is steamroller printing.

Kids’ Day Workshop at Soap and Clay  Make bath bombs. Registration and fees required.

Interpretive walk at Kopachuck State Park

Join Harbor WildWatch’s Education Director Rachel Easton for a 1 hour tour along the interpretive trail in Kopachuck State Park.  Discover Pass Required. Walks at 10 and 11 am.

Paddlers Cup

Annual community event features paddle racing for kayaks, canoes, stand up and prone paddleboards, outriggers and para-canoes, and dragon boat races.

As always, if you need a hand, or know something fun we should add, get in touch! We also super appreciate when you mention Sounds Fun Mom to your favorite local businesses and groups. We exist because of awesome sponsors and readers!