Looking for something to do with the kids this Thanksgiving Weekend?
Here’s our weekly guide to South Sound area fun with activities for kids in Tacoma, Puyallup, Olympia, and Your South Sound home!
You’ll find a list just like this-just for the South Sound-every Friday morning!
You can say hello to the reindeer at Watson’s Nursery. Santa will also be on hand select days. Photo courtesy of Watson’s Nursery
Here’s our weekly guide to what’s fun this weekend just for Tacoma and South Sound area families. Lots of free in our list this week, too! As always, we’ve provided links so you can confirm details before you head out. We love to hear what you find to do!
I absolutely love that we have so many teachers and educators among our readers. I also love when I find products I believe in to share with you, which is why I said, “Yes!” right away when TypingMaster asked if I’d be interested in working with them again to tell you about the launch of the new school edition of TypeTastic, their amazing keyboarding program.
I got to try out the home version with my own son, and I knew right away it would be great for schools, too. I think most of you know I was a teacher before I ever started this site!
TypeTastic is different than other typing programs. It utilizes a unique, color coded keyboard visual and fun games that get children correctly using both hands right away. Kids can get faster and better at typing in less time with TypingMaster!
My own kiddo has dysgraphia, which is a fancy way of saying that writing is hard for him. I was so impressed with how quickly he learned with this program, and he loved the game play!
A Free Kickstart is available through the TypeTastic website, along with a selection of complimentary games to help K–5 students to get familiar with the keyboard. You can check out that free Kickstart option here!
Need to convince your administrators? You’ll be glad to know TypeTastic is a great deal, and it was developed with schools in mind.
TypeTastic School Edition includes an entire K-12 keyboarding curriculum with more than 400 fun keyboarding activities and awesome tools for teachers.
TypeTastic School Edition works on every device without apps or plugins. The program supports single sign-on, and it can be integrated using Active Directory Federation Services (SAML 2.0).
TypeTastic School Edition is available at prices starting from $99 a year for a class of 40.
In addition to Free Kickstart games, TypeTastic offers an exclusive 60-day access to the School Edition where you can try out the Teacher Dashboard and the entire K-12 keyboarding curriculum. I’d love to hear how fast your students learn with TypeTastic!
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the innovators at
Note from SFM: This is our list of weekend events! If you are looking specifically for Veterans Day observances or free admission offers for Veterans, please check back for that updated list later today.
This list has things to do with the kids all three days this weekend!
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Author and Illustrator Wendy Wahman will be at the Orting Library 2:30pm – 3:30pm An all ages, interactive talk with the author and illustrator of “Don’t Lick the Dog,” and “A Cat Like That.” Wendy will draw, read, and show you the fun of being an author!
Join TPL library staff at the Kobetich branch on Fridays from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm for a fun activity! Activities will vary each week, but will consist of Family Game Days, S.T.E.M. activities, crafts, and more!
Just Between Friends event in Olympia
It’s Here! Another HUGE JBF Olympia Kids Consignment Event is right around the corner. Name brand items at a 50-90% savings compared to retail and it’s all under one roof in the Vacant Sport Authority in Cooper Point Marketplace, near the Capital Mall in Olympia. More than 30,000 square feet of bargains on kids’ clothing, gear, toys, and more! Free admission ticket at the link. Also Saturday and Sunday
Rogers High School presents Seussical the Musical Fun for all ages! Also Saturday
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 Juno Valentine and The Magical Shoes at most stores today.
Crafts at Michael’s Santa themed crafts. 2.00/5.00 for 30 minute session, depending on age and craft 10-12; supplies included
Presented by Professor Hieronymus Payne. All ages, ages 8 and younger with adult. Come for a magic show inspired by the characters and stories by J.K. Rowling, as the Professor guides all the lucky “first year” students through their orientation to the Wizarding world.
Veterans Day Parade in Auburn-It’s the largest west of the Mississippi! Great event to take the kids to.
Visit the Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo Small but Free and has touch tanks where kids can feel sea creatures. This evening they also have a special event: Squid O Rama!
Bubbles, Volcanoes & Balloons Workshop at the Graham Library 10:30-11:30 Discover scientific laws through fun experiments including floating eggs, rocket balloons, effervescent bubbles, a baking soda volcano, dancing raisins and foil boats.
Movie Matinee in Fife 2-4PM Contact the help desk for the title!
Won’t You Be My Neighbor? at the Puyallup Public Library Screening of Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (PG-13), a documentary exploring the life, lessons, and legacy of iconic children’s television host, Fred Rogers. Make toys for shelter animals during the show (supplies provided by the library). Toys and donations will go to the event partner, Sunny Skies Animal Rescue. *Recommended for 8 and up
Visit the North Pole at the fair. Get photos taken or just play! Photos require a reservation.
Santa arrival at the South Hill Mall
Home for the Holidays crafting event at Ben Franklin
Christmas Open House in Downtown Sumner I think this is mostly a shopping event, but it should have a festive atmosphere.
PBS Playdate at the Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum of Tacoma is proud to partner with KBTC to provide a PBS Playdate one Saturday a month from 10-11:30 am. The event does not require registration and is free. It’s a Sesame Street theme today.
Craft Saturday at Job Carr Cabin
Drop by Job Carr Cabin Museum for a monthly Craft Saturday event. Activities are designed for children ages 3-9 and their families. Games theme today! Admission to the Museum and all events are “pay as you can.”
Neighborhood Toy Store Day at Teaching Toys and Books
Every child who attends will get a free toy and proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the local Ready Set Read program offered by Communities in Schools.
Family nature walk at McKinley Park
Naturalists lead free nature walks in area parks. Advance registration is now required; perfect for ages 3 and up; not suitable for strollers
Grand Opening of The Curious Bear Toy and Bookshop Yes! A new independent toy store in Fircrest! We absolutely adore the owner, and are so excited for this. Paper Luxe, their original store, will also be having a celebration at the same time.
Mini Sessions with Santa from Illusions of Grandeur Need a more private, less drama Santa visit? Our talented friend with Illusions of Grandeur is offering holiday mini sessions with and without the big guy this Saturday.
The Falconer – John Prucich will be at the University Place Library 2-3pm Join licensed falconer, John Prucich, as we learn about falconry featuring live birds of prey.
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro
Children and all ages shows at the Science Dome presentations and shows on the overhead dome at the area’s only indoor, digital planetarium. This is really Such a great outing on a rainy day, guys, and super affordable, too!
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Rain themed activities at the Wet Science Center Admission and activities are free
Kids Club movie at Capitol Theater It’s an animated film festival movie today. I believe kids under 12 are 5.00. Link has more details on the title and tickets.
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail The trail, featuring wild chum salmon, is free for visitors. Spot salmon returning to spawn with the help of trained docents. Do wear your boots! There is more information for visitors here.
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Winter Warm-up Holiday Crafts Fair at the Key Peninsula Civic Center 9 am – 5 pm. Santa arrives at 1. shopping, entertainment, food for purchase, and other festive fun.
Neighborhood Toy Store Day at Teaching Toys and Books
Every child who attends will get a free toy and proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the local Ready Set Read program offered by Communities in Schools. Karen Robbins, author of the Think! series, will be signing her books and crafting with kids.
Note from SFM: If you are looking specifically for a Veterans Day Observance, please check the site later this weekend for a round up of those.
Free Day at Washington State Parks and National Parks!
Boy Scout Troop 282 Veterans Day Ceremony at Skansie Park in Gig Harbor November 11th 2018 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
The program consists of a presentation of historic American flags, a traditional honor guard rifle salute, a guest speaker and refreshments after the ceremony. A special invitation goes out to all of our local veterans to join us and be recognized.
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Just Between Friends event in Olympia
It’s Here! Another HUGE JBF Olympia Kids Consignment Event is right around the corner. Name brand items at a 50-90% savings compared to retail and it’s all under one roof in the Vacant Sport Authority in Cooper Point Marketplace, near the Capital Mall in Olympia. More than 30,000 square feet of bargains on kids’ clothing, gear, toys, and more! Free admission ticket at the link. Last day-many items half off
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch via soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
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We have an amazing list of fun things to do with the kids this weekend, including tons of free things to do around Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Olympia, Kent….well, you get the idea! We also have the details on big events and everything family friendly happening in the 253 this weekend. You won’t find a more complete list of South Sound family fun.
Dia de Los Muertos – A Cultural Celebration of Remembrance at the Sumner Library 6:30-8:30 Pierce County Library celebrates this Mexican tradition (and its Mexican-American popularity) with cultural stories, music, and sugar skull decorating.
Seussical the Musical by Rogers High School Fun with familiar characters for all ages. Also Saturday and some additional days next week
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Saturday and Sunday
Free first Friday night at the Hands-On Children’s Museum in Olympia
Join the HOCM the first Friday of each month for special activities from 5-9PM. Admission is free, though a suggested donation of 5.00/family will help support programs. Fall wonders theme tonight
Free kids’ workshop at Home Depot stores. It’s a military appreciation helicopter. You’re asked to register in advance for these popular, free building workshops for kids. You may have to select your store before you see the option to register.
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 How The Grinch Stole Christmas today.
Crafts at Michael’s Kids can make Christmas tree themed projects today. It’s 2.00 or 5.00 depending on age/craft for 30 minute sessions.
Free Kids’ Art Project at Rusty Raven
Reading with Rover at Federal Way 320th
Shadow Lake Bog hosts Halloween crafts, games, treats, and a spooky celebration. Family friendly
Seussical the Musical by Rogers High School Fun with familiar characters for all ages.
Friends of South Hill Library Fall Book Sale – Friends members pre-sale 9-10 a.m. $5 bag sale 2-4 p.m. Gently used books and media at great prices. Proceeds help support library programs and services.
Pierce County MakerFest at the Washington State Fair Events Center
Note from SFM: There are also lots of hands on activities for kids. Last time we went Henry got to disassemble a computer, experiment with a wind tunnel, make a button, meet a Dalek, and more! It’s a great event!
Friends of Summit Library Book Sale 10:00am – 4:00pm Support the Friends of Summit Library at this special 1-day only sale. Watch for special offers and prices later in the afternoon.
Family nature walk at Titlow Park
Join volunteer naturalists for free walks in Tacoma parks. You are now asked to register. Not suitable for strollers; fun for ages 3 and up. 10AM
Coloring and Cookies at the Swasey Library10AM
Play and Grow Storytime at Wheelock10:30
The Pod Works Anniversary Market and More
Join The Pod Works in celebrating a year of growing together in motherhood and business! Register (free!) to attend this free, family-friendly event featuring a full line-up of activities and treats. Swag, too!
Polar Bear Awareness Weekend at the Point Defiance Zoo
Discover the amazing world of polar bears, watch them get special treats, test your knowledge of polar bear adaptations, and learn how to help protect polar bear habitat in the wild. Included with admission. SFM suggests investing in an annual pass unless you can take advantage of free days for City of Tacoma residents-Sunday is the next one!
Vendors, photo ops. with favorite characters in costumes, panels and much more fun for your fan of comics or geekery. My kiddo has been counting down the days! Saturday and Sunday
Nature Yoga at the Tacoma Nature Center-link has details on registration and fees
How I Became a Pirate at Tacoma Musical Playhouse Two shows Saturday; one Sunday Last weekend; looks super cute!
Tacoma Refugee Choir performance Free, family friendly
Children and all ages shows at the Science Dome presentations and shows on the overhead dome at the area’s only indoor, digital planetarium.
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Sunday
Family story time at the Olympia Library
Friends of the Yelm Library book sale
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail The trail, featuring wild chum salmon, is free for visitors. Spot salmon returning to spawn with the help of trained docents. Do wear your boots! Opening day. There is more information for visitors here.
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center The center is free and hosts special activities every Saturday. Oly Outdoors theme today.
Tales Told In Ten at Olympia Family Theater
Olympia Family Theater is hosting our second annual 10-minute play festival. Each performance will feature six 10-minute plays. Tickets are 10.00
Peer into the night with Harbor Wild Watch
Free Lego Build at Learning Express Toys
Dia de los Muertos at the Tacoma Arts Museum!
This free community event includes:
– 30+ community altars
– Traditional Aztec dancers
– Sand tapete
– Art-making
– Traditional food
– Art vendors
– Performances
… and more!
Fall Food and Crafts Bazaar at Tacoma Buddhist Temple
Free day at the Point Defiance Zoo for City of Tacoma residents photo id and proof of residence required
How I Became a Pirate at Tacoma Musical Playhouse Two shows Saturday; one Sunday Last weekend; looks super cute!
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Saturday and Sunday
Polar Bear Awareness Weekend at the Point Defiance Zoo
Discover the amazing world of polar bears, watch them get special treats, test your knowledge of polar bear adaptations, and learn how to help protect polar bear habitat in the wild. Included with admission. SFM suggests investing in an annual pass unless you can take advantage of free days for City of Tacoma residents-today is one!
Vendors, photo ops. with favorite characters in costumes, panels and much more fun for your fan of comics or geekery. My kiddo has been counting down the days! Saturday and Sunday
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Tales Told In Ten at Olympia Family Theater
Olympia Family Theater is hosting our second annual 10-minute play festival. Each performance will feature six 10-minute plays. Tickets are 10.00
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch via soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
New here? I’d love to have you use the buttons at the top to join us on the Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to my emails so you don’t miss a thing.
Featured: Tacoma City Ballet Presents Dracula
Reflecting the legendary story of Vlad the Impaler, the Transylvanian Count Dracula, Tacoma City Ballet’s Dracula, an original ballet fashioned from this classic tale, will premier this October featuring fabulous dancers, a brilliant musical score, opulent scenery, and luxurious costumes. Dracula is suitable for audiences of all ages, and the perfect addition to your celebration of Halloween.
Friday, October 26, 7:30PM
Saturday, October 27, 2:00PM
Sunday, October 28, 2:00PM
Museum of Fright at the Flight Museum
Join us as the Museum transforms into The Museum of Fright! Across all galleries, you’ll find Halloween carnival-style games and activities to spark imagination, innovation, and get in the Halloween spirit.
Thanks to the City of Tukwila – Government, visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of spooktacular activities. Kids and parents can design and build soaring, swooping, and spooky fliers below a high-flying glider, visit Frankenstein’s Lab in our Aviation Learning Center, hop through an obstacle course under the Blackbird, and encounter other frightful surprises.
Kids 17 and under IN costume: FREE
Kids 17 and under without costume: $5
Adult Chaperones: $10
Fall Festival, Riverview Community Church, Kent
Face painting, balloon animals, and popcorn! 4-5:30PM
Family program, all ages welcome with adult.
Children are invited to come in costume for this special Halloween show where you will hear the story of Sophie the Spider and make a spider puppet. The show will be followed by Trick-or-Treating around the library so bring a small bag to collect your treats!
Create colorful jewelry and other fun designs using beads! For ages 6 and older All supplies will be provided
JBF Sale at the Fairgrounds in Puyallup Kids’ consignment sale with deals on children’s clothing, gear, and more.
Halloween event at Bass Pro Shops
Free crafts, Peanuts photos, and other fun
Free day at the zoo for City of Tacoma residents Photo id and proof of residence required.
Bass Pro Halloween Extravaganza
Boo Bash at the Hands-On Children’s Museum
A great Halloween option for young children. Sunday, Oct. 28: 11am-5pm Sunday 10-11am: special hour for children with sensory sensitivities & their families. Learn about bats, make stories with shadow puppets, try glow in the dark painting and much, much more, plus face painting, food, and door prizes. Free for members; regular admission for non members
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch via soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
New here? I’d love to have you use the buttons at the top to join us on the Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to my emails so you don’t miss a thing.
Plus, we’ve found fun, free things to do if you’d like to do something totally boo free (We get it)!
Do note that this list is for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
If you’re looking for events On Halloween, we have links to those lists at the bottom.
We do encourage you to use the links we’ve provided to confirm details before you head out. We strive for 100% accuracy, but at holiday times mistakes can happen, particularly with listings sent in to us. Please also note that we are not the organizers-so if you have questions about changes due to weather etc, please double check via the links!
And, now, on to the list……Just one click away if you’re on the home page! Make it a great one!
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Reading with Rover at the Covington Library 1-2
Fall bazaar at the White River Buddhist Temple in Auburn
I think this is mostly about food and crafts, but I’ve always thought it sounded interesting. If you know more, let us know!
Fright Fest at Wild Waves. Includes 20+ amusement park rides, two haunted houses, a scare free area for kids under 12, and live entertainment. Booville is a scare-FREE zone for kids under 12 that includes a giant inflatable slide, an inflatable obstacle course and other fun. Be sure to check the website for the varying times. Readers are mixed on this for little kids.
Salmon spotting on the Cedar River Trained naturalists will help kids spot salmon returning to spawn Every weekend in October at four locations-link takes you to a detailed post.
Ride the Peanuts Great Pumpkin Patch Express
The fall is a fantastic time to ride the train. Join Snoopy and Charlie Brown aboard The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. Passengers will ride the train and read the book It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown on their journey to the Pumpkin Patch.
Sumner Friends Book Sale at the Sumner Library 1-4pm
Support your local library by shopping a fantastic selection of used books both old and new. Sale runs all weekend long and offers a great selection for kids, teens and adults!
Bedrock gold and treasure show at the fairgrounds Saturday & Sunday: 9:30am-5pm Expo Hall, Enter at Gold Gate
Admission: $10.00 over 12 years or $5.00 with unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots We will have a sandbox with buried polished stones and agates that kids can find and keep a stone of their choice. We will have some metal detecting experts on hand to teach them how to use a metal detector. Other activities for the kids include coin scrambles on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Kids Day Workshops at Soap and Clay Bath bombs and one with a Harry Potter theme today Registration and fees required
Visit the South Sound Estuarium open 11-4 weekends
Want to visit a pumpkin patch or a corn maze? Here’s our master list!
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch! You can email me at soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
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Glowing pumpkins. Treats and games; $16 at gate. Bring the whole family and take a starlit tram ride through the Free-Roaming Area. Wander our lit paths and admire glowing carved pumpkins. Come in costume and play games, visit treat stations for candy, and more. Also Saturday
Olympia Family Theater presents Corduroy Last show with tickets
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. Story is Elbow Grease today.
Kids’ Club at Michael’s Craft Stores It’s cobweb themed crafts today. 10AM-12 2.00 or 5.00 per half hour session depending on age; there is also a t shirt decorating event from 1-3PM-buy the shirt and the decorations are free.
Fantastic fall foliage is just minutes away at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden! plant sales, tours, kids’ activities
A Dracula Celebration at the Federal Way 320th Library
Family program, all ages welcome. Ages 6 and younger with adult.
Celebrate the classic tale of Dracula! Listen to the book Vampirina Ballerina by Anne Marie Pace, while participating to help tell the story, led by the ballet dancers of Tacoma City Ballet. Be sure to bring your phone or camera to take pictures of yourself with the ballet dancers afterwards! Dancers will be dressed in costumes from their upcoming all-ages show, Dracula: the Romantic Ballet. Ballet costumes and non-scary Halloween costumes are encouraged. 1:30
Kids can also, “Dance With Dracula,” at this event at Barnes and Noble in Federal Way at 11:30
Score a bargain on gently used kids clothes, toys, gear, and more!
Salmon spotting on the Cedar River Trained naturalists will help kids spot salmon returning to spawn Every weekend in October at four locations-link takes you to a detailed post.Visit the HCC Mast Center at Redondo Touch tanks with sea critters free and open to the public Saturdays from 10AM-2
Culture and arts festival at the Karshner Museum Noon to 5:00 pm
Día de la Raza at the Museum – A Culture and Arts Festival
The Karshner Museum and Center for Culture and Arts is excited to present our third Día de la Raza Culture and Arts event. This family festival of Latino cultures that includes music, dance, and art activities is from noon until 5:00 p.m. – all for free!
October Family Fest at Emerald Ridge-sponsored by High Pointe Church and open to all! Grab your family and friends and join us for a FREE event on Saturday, October 20th from 4-7pm. We will have food, games, bounce houses, face painting, contests and more! Don’t miss it!
Saturday Art for Kids at the Fred Oldfield Center fun, monthly class 25.00/child
Headband Craft – Day of the Dead Headbands at the Fife Library 1-4PM Create a Day of the Dead crown of flowers.
The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company Presents: Pinocchio at the Graham Library 2-3PM
Bedrock gold and treasure show at the fairgrounds Saturday & Sunday: 9:30am-5pm Expo Hall, Enter at Gold Gate
Admission: $10.00 over 12 years or $5.00 with unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots We will have a sandbox with buried polished stones and agates that kids can find and keep a stone of their choice. We will have some metal detecting experts on hand to teach them how to use a metal detector. Other activities for the kids include coin scrambles on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Sumner Friends Book Sale at the Sumner Library 10AM-4PM
Ride the Peanuts Great Pumpkin Patch Express
Join Snoopy and Charlie Brown aboard The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. Passengers will ride the train and read the book It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown on their journey to the Pumpkin Patch.
Glowing pumpkins. Treats and games. $10/$12 online; $16 at gate. Bring the whole family and take a starlit tram ride through the Free-Roaming Area. Wander our lit paths and admire glowing carved pumpkins. Come in costume and play games, visit treat stations for candy, and more.
Celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Eastside Community Center
performances, tours, free swim sessions (sign up online in advance), and other fun You’re encouraged to park off site.
2018 Confucius Institute Day at Annie Wright in Tacoma Free event open to the public. Learn about Chinese language and culture! Register here
Family nature walk at Oak Tree Park
10AM Volunteer naturalists lead free nature walks in area parks. Free but advance registration is now required 10AM not suitable for strollers; great for ages 3 and up
Playblocks story time at Swasey 10:30
Preschool story time at Moore 10:30
Wild Rumpus Dance Party at the Wheelock Library 10:30
Join us for a Wild Rumpus Dance Party to Celebrate our Maurice Sendak Exhbit! Put on your dancing shoes and get wild with shakers, scarves and more during this interactive musical program. All ages welcome; recommended for ages 1-5.
Where the Wild Things Are movie at Wheelock
A young boy finds himself in a fantastical world populated by enormous creatures in desperate need of someone to rule their mysterious society. PG 1-4PM
Ranger-Led Nature Walk at Point Defiance 1PM
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 recommended for strollers; fun for ages 3 and up. Free. Reserve your spot online
Free Family Flick at the Grand -Goosebumps Movie today
Celtic Faire at St. Andrew’s Church high tea, bagpipes, Irish dancers, and other fun
Paper Trails at King’s Books Tacoma Book Arts presents this free event
Come see artists and craftsmen creating in the world of paper. Free event features make-and-take, unique printed items and crafts, fun for all ages.
Pier Peer in Tacoma Nighttime aquatic adventure for ages 8 and up. 10.00/person-register
Great Pumpkin Celebration at Bass Pro Shops Free crafts and photos; also Sunday
10:00am – 4:30pm Join us for our Fall Book Sale! Everyone welcome! Membership not required.
Fall Safety Day with the Fire Department from West Pierce Fire and Rescue
Join us for the annual Fall Safety Day event at West Pierce Fire & Rescue! Enjoy a day of fun for the whole family with games, safety information and of course, FREE pumpkins!
Bricks 4 Kidz – Gadget & Gizmos using LEGO Bricks & Motors
at the Tillicum Library 2-3PM Build and experiment with fun motorized inventions using specialized LEGO components and motors
Woof, Woof Walk, Spanaway Park
Bring your costumed canine pal for a fun walk around Spanaway Park. Seriously, I LOVE a dog in a costume! Who doesn’t?! Join the Pierce County K-9 Unit for a 1.5 or 3 mile walk along paved trails, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Children and all ages shows at the Science Dome presentations and shows on the overhead dome at the area’s only indoor, digital planetarium. Great, low cost, indoor activity-we really recommend the children’s version. It’s “Haunted Night Sky,” this month, but it won’t be scary unless your kids don’t like the dark!
Healthy Family Event at the Capital Mall
Showcase Magazine, Capital Medical Center and Capital Mall present a free day of learning about camps, classes and fun habits to keep your family healthy and happy. Families can also enter their child in the Cutest Child Contest for just 5.00 (low key and fun!). Plus the first 200 families who attend receive a FREE gift bag. 11am-4pm Macy’s court
Family story time at the Olympia Library 11am
Read to a Dog at the DuPont Library Share a book with a furry friend while improving your reading skills. 1-2PM
Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center The center is free and hosts special activities every Saturday. At 1 pm, attend a program about water in our lives and what happens to the dirty water you send down the drain. Then take a behind the scenes tour of LOTT’s Budd Inlet Treatment Plant to see how water is cleaned and restored. Tour participants must be 10 or older and wear sturdy closed shoes. Throughout the day, create water-inspired works of art
Visit the South Sound Estuarium open 11-4 weekends Hands-on sea critter discovery!
It’s apple festival time at Lattin’s
Candy Land at the Lacey Library
Families! Come for a giant game of Candy Land, candy-related crafts and prizes. Cameras and costumes are welcome. Pick up free tickets, while they last, beginning October 6th at the Lacey Library. This Timberland Regional Library event is sponsored by the Friends of the Lacey Timberland Library, and is provided with permission from Hasbro. 6PM
Ready! for Kindergarten with PSD READY! for Kindergarten is a free program that engages parents and caregivers in their child’s learning from birth to age 5. Get free tools, activities, and toys to take home. Be sure to read info. first.
Harbor WildWatch leads a Wetland Walking Tour at Sehmel Park
Get to know your local wetlands! Join Harbor WildWatch on an hour long stroll through Sehmel Homestead Park. Perfect for all ages. Donations welcome. Meet by the Harbor WildWatch sandwich board in the Pavilion at 10 a.m.
Yoga Storytime at the Gig Harbor Library 10:30-11:30am Yoga movements, books and songs for preschoolers. You do need to register. 20 spots as of this writing.
Building Madness at the Key Center Library 11am Drop in and build!
at the Gig Harbor Library 1-2pm Enjoy a sneak peek from Tacoma Musical Playhouse. You do need to register; plenty of spots as of this writing, but don’t wait too long.
Reading with Rover at the Covington Library 1-2
Fall bazaar at the White River Buddhist Temple in Auburn
I think this is mostly about food and crafts, but I’ve always thought it sounded interesting. If you know more, let us know!
Fright Fest at Wild Waves. Includes 20+ amusement park rides, two haunted houses, a scare free area for kids under 12, and live entertainment. Booville is a scare-FREE zone for kids under 12 that includes a giant inflatable slide, an inflatable obstacle course and other fun. Be sure to check the website for the varying times. Readers are mixed on this for little kids.
Salmon spotting on the Cedar River Trained naturalists will help kids spot salmon returning to spawn Every weekend in October at four locations-link takes you to a detailed post.
Ride the Peanuts Great Pumpkin Patch Express
The fall is a fantastic time to ride the train. Join Snoopy and Charlie Brown aboard The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. Passengers will ride the train and read the book It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown on their journey to the Pumpkin Patch.
Sumner Friends Book Sale at the Sumner Library 1-4pm
Support your local library by shopping a fantastic selection of used books both old and new. Sale runs all weekend long and offers a great selection for kids, teens and adults!
Bedrock gold and treasure show at the fairgrounds Saturday & Sunday: 9:30am-5pm Expo Hall, Enter at Gold Gate
Admission: $10.00 over 12 years or $5.00 with unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots We will have a sandbox with buried polished stones and agates that kids can find and keep a stone of their choice. We will have some metal detecting experts on hand to teach them how to use a metal detector. Other activities for the kids include coin scrambles on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Kids Day Workshops at Soap and Clay Bath bombs and one with a Harry Potter theme today Registration and fees required
Visit the South Sound Estuarium open 11-4 weekends
Want to visit a pumpkin patch or a corn maze? Here’s our master list!
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch! You can email me at soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
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