Last night, my family and I went to Boo at the Zoo for the first time. Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed. We arrived at about 6:45, and by the time we made it into the zoo, it was already dark.
My 4 year old daughter and I were both disappointed that we weren't able to see any of the animals. I guess I thought that we'd be able to see at least some of them, but that wasn't the case.
When we arrived, we were given cards with tear-off tickets which could be redeemed at stations around the zoo for candy. But each station we went to only gave us about 5 small pieces of cheap, off-brand candy. The best thing we scored was outside of the Herpetarium (which was closed), where we received an off-brand granola bar. As an aside, I am not snobby against store brands, but when I paid $10/person, and $4 for my 6 month old, I expected a little more.
The coolest part was the pumkin patch where they had carved pumkins to look like traditional jack-o-lanterns, as well as some amazing pumkins that looked like animals.
As a disclaimer, we did not walk all the way through the zoo, and I know they had a place where they had a play area for the kids that we didn't go to. But overall, I didn't think it was worth the money.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
This Weekend, Nov 2-4
Honestly, this weekend is pretty slow, and what IS going on isn't cheap. Maybe this would be a good opportunity to kick back with the kids, have a family movie night, and munch on all that candy you have from Halloween and fall parties!
Summary: Friday and Saturday you can go see a rodeo or three different live theater opportunities, but Sunday's got nuthin'. Oh, except Bee Movie debuts this Friday, so you could go see that. And deer season starts Saturday, but that's not for everyone.
ONGOING:
1. Stockyards Championship Rodeo. Now through 12/31/2007, every Friday and Saturday night at the Cowtown Coliseum in the Stockyards, you and your family can enjoy a traditional rodeo, complete with horses, cows, bulls, and barrels. Place: 121 E. Exhange, in the Stockyards Time: 8 p.m. Cost: Ages 3-12, $10; Adults, $15.00.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2
1. Bridge to Terabithia. This live theater event at Theatre Arlington showcases kids performing a show based on the novel by the same name. This show is probably most suitable for ages 7 and older and you may want to call for tickets in advance (817-275-7661). Play runs from Friday through Sunday. Place: Theatre Arlington, 305 West Main Street, Arlington, TX 76010 Time: Fri, 7:30; Sat, 2 pm and 7:30 pm; Sun, 2 pm. Cost: $10.
2. Charlotte's Web. Here's another live theater show, this time at Casa Manana. It's not really what I'd call inexpensive, but there are so many big fans of the book and movie, that it might be worth it to take them to see the play version. Play runs from Friday through Sunday. Place: Casa Manana, 3101 West Lancaster Avenue Time: Fri, 7pm; Sat 2 pm & 7 pm; Sun 2 pm. Cost: $14-16.
3. Squirrels Just Wanna Have Fun. Artisan Center Theater, located in Hurst, is an interactive theater for kids ages 2-92. Play runs Friday and Saturday. Place: Artisan Center Theater, 418 E. Pipeline Road, Hurst Time: Fri and Sat, 10:30 a.m. Cost: $3
4. Bee Movie debuts.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3
1. Deer Season. I mention this because my daughter will be accompanying her dad out to the deer lease for opening day of deer season. Great father/daughter time, great break for me!
2. Bee Movie for Special Needs Children. It's so cool that Studio Movie Grill in Arlington offers this private screening of Jerry Seinfeld's new animated movie just for families raising special needs children. Place: Studio Movie Grill, 225 Merchants Row, Arlington, TX 76018, Time: 11 am Cost: Adults, $6.25; Kids, FREE
Summary: Friday and Saturday you can go see a rodeo or three different live theater opportunities, but Sunday's got nuthin'. Oh, except Bee Movie debuts this Friday, so you could go see that. And deer season starts Saturday, but that's not for everyone.
ONGOING:
1. Stockyards Championship Rodeo. Now through 12/31/2007, every Friday and Saturday night at the Cowtown Coliseum in the Stockyards, you and your family can enjoy a traditional rodeo, complete with horses, cows, bulls, and barrels. Place: 121 E. Exhange, in the Stockyards Time: 8 p.m. Cost: Ages 3-12, $10; Adults, $15.00.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2
1. Bridge to Terabithia. This live theater event at Theatre Arlington showcases kids performing a show based on the novel by the same name. This show is probably most suitable for ages 7 and older and you may want to call for tickets in advance (817-275-7661). Play runs from Friday through Sunday. Place: Theatre Arlington, 305 West Main Street, Arlington, TX 76010 Time: Fri, 7:30; Sat, 2 pm and 7:30 pm; Sun, 2 pm. Cost: $10.
2. Charlotte's Web. Here's another live theater show, this time at Casa Manana. It's not really what I'd call inexpensive, but there are so many big fans of the book and movie, that it might be worth it to take them to see the play version. Play runs from Friday through Sunday. Place: Casa Manana, 3101 West Lancaster Avenue Time: Fri, 7pm; Sat 2 pm & 7 pm; Sun 2 pm. Cost: $14-16.
3. Squirrels Just Wanna Have Fun. Artisan Center Theater, located in Hurst, is an interactive theater for kids ages 2-92. Play runs Friday and Saturday. Place: Artisan Center Theater, 418 E. Pipeline Road, Hurst Time: Fri and Sat, 10:30 a.m. Cost: $3
4. Bee Movie debuts.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3
1. Deer Season. I mention this because my daughter will be accompanying her dad out to the deer lease for opening day of deer season. Great father/daughter time, great break for me!
2. Bee Movie for Special Needs Children. It's so cool that Studio Movie Grill in Arlington offers this private screening of Jerry Seinfeld's new animated movie just for families raising special needs children. Place: Studio Movie Grill, 225 Merchants Row, Arlington, TX 76018, Time: 11 am Cost: Adults, $6.25; Kids, FREE
Monday, October 29, 2007
Fall Party Ideas
This is a bit off-topic, in that this is something you can do at home with your kids, instead of somewhere you can take them, but it's all about having fun with your family!
Now, I don't even pretend that I'm a creative person when it comes to parties and kids' stuff, but I DO like to have fun, and I DO know how to use Google. The following ideas would be fun to do with your kids and their friends one evening to celebrate fall, and perhaps to start a new family tradition of having a party just for your little family.
(1) Pumpkin Race - Set up starting and finish lines and have the children race to see who can get their pumpkin over the finish line first using only their feet to slide the pumpkins along. No kicking the pumpkins like footballs...lol
(2) Popcorn Relay Race - Set out bowls full of popcorn at one end of the room, empty bowls at another. Teams must transport the popcorn from full bowl to empty, using a measuring cup. This is a messy game - plan it for the end of the party! (Note: popcorn is a choking hazard for children under three).
(3) Bobbing for Apples -- This traditional game might should be limited to family members only; after all, I don't think I want my kid's mouth in water where my neighbor's kid has just had his head submerged. No offense to my neighbors, but you feel the same way, don't you? Anyway, my MIL did this activity last year for her grandkids, and they all had a good time.
(4) Halloween Pumpkin Decorating -- Use acrylic paints, brushes, paint pens, other art supplies for decorating pumpkins in an area that is safe for painting and messes. The garage might be the ideal place for kids to bring their pumpkin to paint and decorate to their heart's content.
(5) Cupcake Walk -- A cakewalk is always the favorite activity at school and church carnivals. Bring the cakewalk down to size with a cupcake walk at your party. It's just as much fun and a bit more manageable at home. Each player starts on a number and walks around the circle while the music plays. The game leader stops the music and everyone finds a number. Draw a number from the hat and the player on that number wins the cupcake for that round.
(6) Big group game: HALLOWEEN HIDE & SEEK -- If you live in an area where homes are far apart and trick-or-treating can be an exhausting, if not impossible task, you can do this combo hide-and-seek, treat-or-treat game. While the kids are indoors decorating/making their loot bags, the parents, armed with treats to dole out, sneak into the large yard and hide. One parent has the kids count to 50 and then go in search of the other parents. The kids stick together during the hunt, yelling "trick or treat!" and collecting goodies each time they find a parent.
Let me know if you have any favorite games for parties!
Now, I don't even pretend that I'm a creative person when it comes to parties and kids' stuff, but I DO like to have fun, and I DO know how to use Google. The following ideas would be fun to do with your kids and their friends one evening to celebrate fall, and perhaps to start a new family tradition of having a party just for your little family.
(1) Pumpkin Race - Set up starting and finish lines and have the children race to see who can get their pumpkin over the finish line first using only their feet to slide the pumpkins along. No kicking the pumpkins like footballs...lol
(2) Popcorn Relay Race - Set out bowls full of popcorn at one end of the room, empty bowls at another. Teams must transport the popcorn from full bowl to empty, using a measuring cup. This is a messy game - plan it for the end of the party! (Note: popcorn is a choking hazard for children under three).
(3) Bobbing for Apples -- This traditional game might should be limited to family members only; after all, I don't think I want my kid's mouth in water where my neighbor's kid has just had his head submerged. No offense to my neighbors, but you feel the same way, don't you? Anyway, my MIL did this activity last year for her grandkids, and they all had a good time.
(4) Halloween Pumpkin Decorating -- Use acrylic paints, brushes, paint pens, other art supplies for decorating pumpkins in an area that is safe for painting and messes. The garage might be the ideal place for kids to bring their pumpkin to paint and decorate to their heart's content.
(5) Cupcake Walk -- A cakewalk is always the favorite activity at school and church carnivals. Bring the cakewalk down to size with a cupcake walk at your party. It's just as much fun and a bit more manageable at home. Each player starts on a number and walks around the circle while the music plays. The game leader stops the music and everyone finds a number. Draw a number from the hat and the player on that number wins the cupcake for that round.
(6) Big group game: HALLOWEEN HIDE & SEEK -- If you live in an area where homes are far apart and trick-or-treating can be an exhausting, if not impossible task, you can do this combo hide-and-seek, treat-or-treat game. While the kids are indoors decorating/making their loot bags, the parents, armed with treats to dole out, sneak into the large yard and hide. One parent has the kids count to 50 and then go in search of the other parents. The kids stick together during the hunt, yelling "trick or treat!" and collecting goodies each time they find a parent.
Let me know if you have any favorite games for parties!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
This Weekend and Beyond
This weekend will bring a multitude of opportunities for free family fun around Fort Worth, as pretty much every church on every street corner will be hosting a Fall Festival. Obviously I'm not going to list them all here... just drive around your neighborhood, look for a church of any decent size, and you can almost bet they'll be having one either this Saturday or on October 31.
But Fall Festivals at church aren't the only chance to have some quality family time. Check out the below. And if you'd like to get this information in your email inbox, sign up for the new Yahoo group by clicking here.
THURSDAY through TUESDAY, October 25 –October 30
1. Boo at the Zoo. From their website: "Boo at the Zoo is a safe, family-friendly fall event held at the Fort Worth Zoo for six wild nights. Guests take home a bag of treats, but ours is no ordinary Halloween party. When the clock strikes 6, the Zoo grounds turn into a haven of happy trails, pumpkin patches and wonderful webs that only a superhero could weave. …The Fort Worth Zoo has planned all new entertainment for this year's event, including a children's variety show, Pira-cats of the Caribbean, a marionette puppet show, and most importantly, live animals (after all, this is Boo at the ZOO!) So put on your costumes and come out for a howling good time!" Place: Fort Worth Zoo. Time: 6-8:30 p.m. nightly. Cost: $10 - General Admission (Child, Adult, Senior - age 3 years and up); $4 - Toddler (age 2 years and under); $5 – Parking.
SATURDAY, October 27
1. Japanese Fall Festival at the Botanic Gardens. Their website says it best: "Feast your eyes on the spectacular fall color of the Japanese Garden while you and your family enjoy traditional Japanese dance, music, martial arts demonstrations, papermaking, Bonsai, Ikebana, and tea ceremonies. Admission: Adults $4.00, Children (4-12yrs.) $2.00, under 4 free." See their website for a complete schedule of events. Place: Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Time: Varies – see schedule. Cost: see above
SUNDAY, October 28
1. Tails of the Misunderstood. Come to the Fort Worth Nature Center to learn about some misunderstood animals, including bats, owls and snakes. Place: Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: 1-3 p.m. Cost: Free program, admission is not (Adults $4, 3-17 $3, under 3 free).
WEDNESDAY, October 31
1. Hannah Montana Halloween Party. Radio Disney and Alley Cats Bowling in Arlington are teaming up to host a Hannah Montana party! From Radio Disney's website: "You can join Radio Disney and Tera Beall at the Alley Cats Bowl in Arlington from 6:00pm - 8:00pm for a Hannah Montana Halloween Party and sold-out concert giveaway! Dress up as your favorite character from the Hannah Montana show on Disney Channel! Ticket winners will be randomly chosen. There will also be lots of other Hannah Montana prizes like CDs and DVDs! You will not want to miss the best Halloween party in the metroplex.: Place: The Alley Cats Bowl, 2008 West Pleasant Ridge Road in Arlington Time: 6-8 p.m. Cost: Looks like admission is free, but to have any fun, you'll have to pay for bowling, laser tag, etc.
2. Treat Street in the Stockyards. From their website: Join Stockyards Station & RADIO DISNEY for a safe, family-friendly Halloween Party in the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards that’s FREE & FUN! Trick or treat Stockyards Station shops! FREE Hayrides! Costume Contest, Pumpkin Decorating, Games, Prizes & More! Location: Historic Stockyards, Exchange Street, Fort Worth Time: 5-7 p.m. Cost: FREE!!
But Fall Festivals at church aren't the only chance to have some quality family time. Check out the below. And if you'd like to get this information in your email inbox, sign up for the new Yahoo group by clicking here.
THURSDAY through TUESDAY, October 25 –October 30
1. Boo at the Zoo. From their website: "Boo at the Zoo is a safe, family-friendly fall event held at the Fort Worth Zoo for six wild nights. Guests take home a bag of treats, but ours is no ordinary Halloween party. When the clock strikes 6, the Zoo grounds turn into a haven of happy trails, pumpkin patches and wonderful webs that only a superhero could weave. …The Fort Worth Zoo has planned all new entertainment for this year's event, including a children's variety show, Pira-cats of the Caribbean, a marionette puppet show, and most importantly, live animals (after all, this is Boo at the ZOO!) So put on your costumes and come out for a howling good time!" Place: Fort Worth Zoo. Time: 6-8:30 p.m. nightly. Cost: $10 - General Admission (Child, Adult, Senior - age 3 years and up); $4 - Toddler (age 2 years and under); $5 – Parking.
SATURDAY, October 27
1. Japanese Fall Festival at the Botanic Gardens. Their website says it best: "Feast your eyes on the spectacular fall color of the Japanese Garden while you and your family enjoy traditional Japanese dance, music, martial arts demonstrations, papermaking, Bonsai, Ikebana, and tea ceremonies. Admission: Adults $4.00, Children (4-12yrs.) $2.00, under 4 free." See their website for a complete schedule of events. Place: Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Time: Varies – see schedule. Cost: see above
SUNDAY, October 28
1. Tails of the Misunderstood. Come to the Fort Worth Nature Center to learn about some misunderstood animals, including bats, owls and snakes. Place: Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: 1-3 p.m. Cost: Free program, admission is not (Adults $4, 3-17 $3, under 3 free).
WEDNESDAY, October 31
1. Hannah Montana Halloween Party. Radio Disney and Alley Cats Bowling in Arlington are teaming up to host a Hannah Montana party! From Radio Disney's website: "You can join Radio Disney and Tera Beall at the Alley Cats Bowl in Arlington from 6:00pm - 8:00pm for a Hannah Montana Halloween Party and sold-out concert giveaway! Dress up as your favorite character from the Hannah Montana show on Disney Channel! Ticket winners will be randomly chosen. There will also be lots of other Hannah Montana prizes like CDs and DVDs! You will not want to miss the best Halloween party in the metroplex.: Place: The Alley Cats Bowl, 2008 West Pleasant Ridge Road in Arlington Time: 6-8 p.m. Cost: Looks like admission is free, but to have any fun, you'll have to pay for bowling, laser tag, etc.
2. Treat Street in the Stockyards. From their website: Join Stockyards Station & RADIO DISNEY for a safe, family-friendly Halloween Party in the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards that’s FREE & FUN! Trick or treat Stockyards Station shops! FREE Hayrides! Costume Contest, Pumpkin Decorating, Games, Prizes & More! Location: Historic Stockyards, Exchange Street, Fort Worth Time: 5-7 p.m. Cost: FREE!!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Tomorrow!
If you like garage sales, but don't like all the stopping and starting and getting out of the car and getting back in (especially if you have kids!), then check out the City-wide Garage Sale in Crowley at Bicentennial Park. The kids can play while you shop, which means they're less likely to find something they want you to buy for them!
Location: Bicentennial Park in Crowley Time: 8:00a to 3:00p Cost: FREE!
Location: Bicentennial Park in Crowley Time: 8:00a to 3:00p Cost: FREE!
Monday, October 8, 2007
New Additions to Events for this Saturday, October 13
1. Barktoberfest at Fort Woof Dog Park. If you're family has a beloved dog (who gets along well with others), then go out to the Fort Woof Dog Park for the 4th annual fall festival for canines. You can even dress your dog up in costume. (I would suggest NOT dressing it in a cat, bunny, or other natural prey-of-dogs costume – think of what the other dogs would say.) This would be a fun event even if, like me, you can't take your dog anywhere, just to see all the dogs in costume. Location: Fort Woof Dog Park in Gateway Park, north of I-30 on Beach Street Time: 10-2pm Cost: FREE, but a $1 donation is suggested, and will go to help the Fort Worth Animal Shelter
2. 15th Annual Founders Day in Burleson. This annual festival features gunfighters, two stages of entertainment, dancers, gymnasts, and many other features. And I'm sure there will be the obligatory fat-filled, fried festival food. Location: Old Town Burleson, north of Renfro, just west of I-35 Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: Free, unless you buy the fat-filled fried festival food.
2. 15th Annual Founders Day in Burleson. This annual festival features gunfighters, two stages of entertainment, dancers, gymnasts, and many other features. And I'm sure there will be the obligatory fat-filled, fried festival food. Location: Old Town Burleson, north of Renfro, just west of I-35 Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: Free, unless you buy the fat-filled fried festival food.
Friday, October 5, 2007
October 19-21 Events
FRIDAY, October 19
1. Preschool Story Time at Log Cabin Village. From their website: "Featured story: Anansi the Spider: a Tale from the Ashanti by Gerald McDermott. Bring your 3-5 year old to the Village for an exciting step back into the world of 1800s Texas! Little "Villagers" can don bonnets, aprons, and vests as they gather 'round to hear stories of days gone by. $3 fee includes a preschool story, fun activities, and a craft. Please call 817-392-6769 to make your reservation (required)." Place: Log Cabin Village, Time: 10-11 a.m. Cost: $3.00. Reservation required.
SATURDAY, October 20
1. Alliance Airshow. From their website: "Bring the family for a full-day of daring aerobatic maneuvers, static displays, children's activities, simulators, Huey helicopter rides, food and more!" Location: Alliance Airport Time: Aerial performances start at 9:30 a.m. Cost: FREE Admission, $15 parking.
2. Grapevine Butterfly Flutterby. This event is in Grapevine, and I heard from an attendee last year that their then-3-year-old daughter LOVED it. From their website: "Calling all kids - come to Grapevine to celebrate the migration of the Monarch Butterfly from Canada to Mexico. Grapevine is on their path! This fun-for-the-whole-family event includes releases of butterflies and a Gossamer Parade. New this year, join the fun at the Historic Cotton Belt Railroad District 701 South Main Street, you'll enjoy butterfly exhibits, gardening seminars and all sorts of interactive butterfly arts and crafts and entertainment. The Parade will line up at 9:30 AM at Liberty Park (corner of East Wall and Main Street) and proceed down Main Street to the Cotton Belt Railroad District. Location: 701 South Main Street, Grapevine, TX. Time: Parade starts at 9:30 a.m. Cost: FREE!
3. Maize Days at Log Cabin Village. From their website: "Ears (of corn, that is) will be flying as the Village is alive with activities highlighting corn’s important role in 19th century Texas life and culture. Visitors can grind corn in a molcajete, smell delicious corn delicacies cooking in the Parker Cabin, learn about a “shucking bee,” and see corn processed in the Grist Mill. Make a corn husk doll before you head home! No reservations required. Place: Log Cabin Village. Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Cost: $3.00 craft fee plus general admission (Adults $3.50, Age 4-17 $3.00, Under 4 FREE)
SUNDAY, October 21
1. Alliance Airshow… continued. See above.
2. Canoe Fest. The Fort Worth Nature Center will provide the canoe, the life jacket, the paddle, and the body of water. You provide the arm-power. Kids must be 5 years of age or older. Place: Greer Island in the Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: Noon to 4 p.m. Cost: $5.00 plus admission (Adults $4, 3-17 $3, under 3 free)
1. Preschool Story Time at Log Cabin Village. From their website: "Featured story: Anansi the Spider: a Tale from the Ashanti by Gerald McDermott. Bring your 3-5 year old to the Village for an exciting step back into the world of 1800s Texas! Little "Villagers" can don bonnets, aprons, and vests as they gather 'round to hear stories of days gone by. $3 fee includes a preschool story, fun activities, and a craft. Please call 817-392-6769 to make your reservation (required)." Place: Log Cabin Village, Time: 10-11 a.m. Cost: $3.00. Reservation required.
SATURDAY, October 20
1. Alliance Airshow. From their website: "Bring the family for a full-day of daring aerobatic maneuvers, static displays, children's activities, simulators, Huey helicopter rides, food and more!" Location: Alliance Airport Time: Aerial performances start at 9:30 a.m. Cost: FREE Admission, $15 parking.
2. Grapevine Butterfly Flutterby. This event is in Grapevine, and I heard from an attendee last year that their then-3-year-old daughter LOVED it. From their website: "Calling all kids - come to Grapevine to celebrate the migration of the Monarch Butterfly from Canada to Mexico. Grapevine is on their path! This fun-for-the-whole-family event includes releases of butterflies and a Gossamer Parade. New this year, join the fun at the Historic Cotton Belt Railroad District 701 South Main Street, you'll enjoy butterfly exhibits, gardening seminars and all sorts of interactive butterfly arts and crafts and entertainment. The Parade will line up at 9:30 AM at Liberty Park (corner of East Wall and Main Street) and proceed down Main Street to the Cotton Belt Railroad District. Location: 701 South Main Street, Grapevine, TX. Time: Parade starts at 9:30 a.m. Cost: FREE!
3. Maize Days at Log Cabin Village. From their website: "Ears (of corn, that is) will be flying as the Village is alive with activities highlighting corn’s important role in 19th century Texas life and culture. Visitors can grind corn in a molcajete, smell delicious corn delicacies cooking in the Parker Cabin, learn about a “shucking bee,” and see corn processed in the Grist Mill. Make a corn husk doll before you head home! No reservations required. Place: Log Cabin Village. Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Cost: $3.00 craft fee plus general admission (Adults $3.50, Age 4-17 $3.00, Under 4 FREE)
SUNDAY, October 21
1. Alliance Airshow… continued. See above.
2. Canoe Fest. The Fort Worth Nature Center will provide the canoe, the life jacket, the paddle, and the body of water. You provide the arm-power. Kids must be 5 years of age or older. Place: Greer Island in the Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: Noon to 4 p.m. Cost: $5.00 plus admission (Adults $4, 3-17 $3, under 3 free)
More FREE Events for This Weekend
Costume Swap
This event is TODAY in Arlington, not Fort Worth, but hey, they're still in the same county, and it's close enough to save a little money and get rid of old costumes all at once! Bring an old costume and swap it for a costume that'll make you're kiddos happy. Location: The Little Gym, 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 201, Arlington Time: Costume Drop Off – 3:30-4:15 Pick a New Costume – 4:30 Cost: FREE!
Kid's Day at Calloway's Nurseries
Tomorrow at the Calloway's Nursery on S. Hulen, they will celebrate fall with their annual Kid's Day, complete with bounce houses, free pumkin to each child for decorating, chalk gardens, ID Kits and more. I've heard that this event is actually pretty fun, so if you're in the area, you may want to check it out. Location: Calloway's Nursery, 2651 S. Hulen (and other participating nurseries in Arlington, Hurst and the Metroplex) Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: FREE!
This event is TODAY in Arlington, not Fort Worth, but hey, they're still in the same county, and it's close enough to save a little money and get rid of old costumes all at once! Bring an old costume and swap it for a costume that'll make you're kiddos happy. Location: The Little Gym, 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 201, Arlington Time: Costume Drop Off – 3:30-4:15 Pick a New Costume – 4:30 Cost: FREE!
Kid's Day at Calloway's Nurseries
Tomorrow at the Calloway's Nursery on S. Hulen, they will celebrate fall with their annual Kid's Day, complete with bounce houses, free pumkin to each child for decorating, chalk gardens, ID Kits and more. I've heard that this event is actually pretty fun, so if you're in the area, you may want to check it out. Location: Calloway's Nursery, 2651 S. Hulen (and other participating nurseries in Arlington, Hurst and the Metroplex) Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: FREE!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Family Volunteer Opportunity
This Saturday is the Cowtown Brush Up, a non-profit program that assists in neighborhood revitalization by providing a fresh paint job for houses in Fort Worth's central city neighborhoods. The homes are often owned by the elderly and disabled who are not able to paint or afford to paint their homes. Cowtown Brush Up is in its 19th year of providing this service to Fort Worth residents. It's a lot like going to help out for Habitat for Humanity, except all you do is paint! You will need to sign up prior to Saturday, so go to their website for more info. Location: Staging area is as Meacham Airport, 4201 N. Main Street, Fort Worth Time: 6:00 a.m. Cost: FREE
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
New Fun Location
If you live in south Fort Worth or one of the suburbs like Crowley or Burleson, you will be interested to know that Bicentennial Park in Crowley now has a free water play area. There's no standing water, but there are all kinds of sprinklers, as well as water guns that shut off when they are pointed toward the parent's seating area (brilliant!). It's an area that can be enjoyed by all ages. It's getting a little cool to play in the water, but if you go in the heat of the day, you can still get by with it for a while!
Place: Bicentennial Park, Crowley Time: Heat of the Day Cost: FREE
Place: Bicentennial Park, Crowley Time: Heat of the Day Cost: FREE
October -- First Two Weeks
October is going to be filled with all kinds of fun activities for the family. Because events around town are so numerous, I haven't captured them all here, but at least it's a good start. Please feel free to comment if you know of something else I've missed that's a lot of fun.
Ongoing Activities/Events (All Expensive, but probably worth it):
1. The Promise. This outdoor play in Glen Rose is a must-see for any Christian family. It's kind of a drive, and it ain't cheap, but it's an experience that won't be forgotten. Dates: September 1 – October 27, every Friday and Saturday evening. Place: 5000 Texas Drive, Glen Rose, Texas. Time: 7:30 to 10 p.m. Cost: $15-$28.
2. The State Fair. It needs no explanation, but just wanted to mention the dates so you don't forget if you want to go. Dates: Now through October 21.
3. Disney's The Lion King. This musical is playing at Music Hall at Fair Park now through October 21. Cost is anywhere from $29 to $133. See www.dallassummermusicals.org for more info.
FIRST TWO WEEKS OF OCTOBER
SATURDAY, October 6
1. A Growing Marriage, led by Dr. Gary Chapman. OK, so this isn't technically a family fun event, but you can't have fun as a family if you don't have a good marriage. So, it may be time to ship the kids off to Grandma's for the day, and spend some quality time with your spouse at a conference led by the author of The Five Love Languages. Place: Richland Hills Church of Christ, 6300 NE Loop 820, Richland Hills, Texas 76180. Time: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $40/couple. Call 817-281-0773 for more info or to purchase tickets.
SUNDAY, October 7
1. Duck Day! This fun family event is actually a fundraiser for the Circle T Council Girl Scouts. For $5.00, you can purchase a numbered rubber duck, and cheer it on as it races down the Trinity River, competing with about 19,999 other ducks that were tossed off the bridge to see who crosses the finish line first. If your duck is a winner (several can win), you can win one of several really cool prizes. In addition to the race, which is at 3:30, you can come early, starting at noon, to enjoy the normal festival type stuff: face painting, merchandise purchases, and festival food. Place: Fort Worth Trinity Park. Time: 12-5 (Race: 3:30-4:00) Cost: FREE admission, ducks are extra
2. First Sunday Movie Club. This may fall more in the date category, unless your kids are older. The Fort Worth Central Library hosts free movies on the first Sunday of each month, and this month is Strangers on a Train, a 1951 Alfred Hitchcock movie. It might be fun to take your older kids to show them what used to be considered a suspense film, and then talk about how times have changed. Place: Fort Worth Central Library, 500 W. 3rd Street Time: 2 p.m. Cost: FREE
3. 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off. The Fort Worth Nature Center is hosting a free chili cook off in conjunction with an introduction to the new Raptor Exhibit at the Nature Center. Drinks, crackers and dessert is provided.
SATURDAY, October 13
1. Learn Salsa Dancing. Here's something different – learn to dance together as a family! As part of their continuing celebration of Hispanic heritage and culture, the Fort Worth Northside Library will offer free salsa dancing classes at 11:30. C'mon, it'll be fun! Don't be a chicken! Place: Northside Public Library, 601 Park Street, Fort Worth Time: 11:30 a.m. Cost: FREE
2. Fall Plant Sale. Not only could you go together as a family to pick out some beautiful native fall plants to plant together, but you can also be a part of the Monarch butterfly tagging project. From their website: "Participate in the gentle tagging and release of monarch butterflies in the Trial Garden! Watch as education horticulturist and entomologist Gail Manning gathers the butterflies as they feed on nectar (flowers available at the plant sale!). A small tag is applied to the hindwing, and the butterfly is released to flutter away, continuing its journey south to Mexico. Be part of a phenomenon of nature- the marvelous migration of the monarch." Place: Fort Worth Botanic Garden Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cost: FREE admission, plants extra
3. Fiestalorico by Balet Folklorico. In lieu of a more sophisticated way to put it, Balet Folklorico are the Mexican dancers with the bright "spinning dresses", as my 4 year old calls them. When we went to Mexico when she was just under 2 years old, she was mesmerized by this type of dance and charmed all our fellow travelers with her attempts to dance just like them. The 6th Annual Fiestalorico will be held at the Fort Worth Community Arts Center in the Cultural District. See website for more details. Location: Fort Worth Community Arts Center, 1300 Gendy Street (across from the Amon Carter Museum). Time: Afternoon performance is from 12-5, Evening performance is at 7:30. Cost: Afternoon -- $5 for 11 and up, under 11 free. Evening -- $10 per person.
SUNDAY, October 14
1. Monarch Migration. The Fort Worth Nature Center will provide a talk on how Monarch butterflies migrate, and then will lead a leisurely stroll through the Nature Center to try to locate the Monarch butterflies. Place: Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: 1-3 p.m. Cost: FREE.
Ongoing Activities/Events (All Expensive, but probably worth it):
1. The Promise. This outdoor play in Glen Rose is a must-see for any Christian family. It's kind of a drive, and it ain't cheap, but it's an experience that won't be forgotten. Dates: September 1 – October 27, every Friday and Saturday evening. Place: 5000 Texas Drive, Glen Rose, Texas. Time: 7:30 to 10 p.m. Cost: $15-$28.
2. The State Fair. It needs no explanation, but just wanted to mention the dates so you don't forget if you want to go. Dates: Now through October 21.
3. Disney's The Lion King. This musical is playing at Music Hall at Fair Park now through October 21. Cost is anywhere from $29 to $133. See www.dallassummermusicals.org for more info.
FIRST TWO WEEKS OF OCTOBER
SATURDAY, October 6
1. A Growing Marriage, led by Dr. Gary Chapman. OK, so this isn't technically a family fun event, but you can't have fun as a family if you don't have a good marriage. So, it may be time to ship the kids off to Grandma's for the day, and spend some quality time with your spouse at a conference led by the author of The Five Love Languages. Place: Richland Hills Church of Christ, 6300 NE Loop 820, Richland Hills, Texas 76180. Time: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $40/couple. Call 817-281-0773 for more info or to purchase tickets.
SUNDAY, October 7
1. Duck Day! This fun family event is actually a fundraiser for the Circle T Council Girl Scouts. For $5.00, you can purchase a numbered rubber duck, and cheer it on as it races down the Trinity River, competing with about 19,999 other ducks that were tossed off the bridge to see who crosses the finish line first. If your duck is a winner (several can win), you can win one of several really cool prizes. In addition to the race, which is at 3:30, you can come early, starting at noon, to enjoy the normal festival type stuff: face painting, merchandise purchases, and festival food. Place: Fort Worth Trinity Park. Time: 12-5 (Race: 3:30-4:00) Cost: FREE admission, ducks are extra
2. First Sunday Movie Club. This may fall more in the date category, unless your kids are older. The Fort Worth Central Library hosts free movies on the first Sunday of each month, and this month is Strangers on a Train, a 1951 Alfred Hitchcock movie. It might be fun to take your older kids to show them what used to be considered a suspense film, and then talk about how times have changed. Place: Fort Worth Central Library, 500 W. 3rd Street Time: 2 p.m. Cost: FREE
3. 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off. The Fort Worth Nature Center is hosting a free chili cook off in conjunction with an introduction to the new Raptor Exhibit at the Nature Center. Drinks, crackers and dessert is provided.
SATURDAY, October 13
1. Learn Salsa Dancing. Here's something different – learn to dance together as a family! As part of their continuing celebration of Hispanic heritage and culture, the Fort Worth Northside Library will offer free salsa dancing classes at 11:30. C'mon, it'll be fun! Don't be a chicken! Place: Northside Public Library, 601 Park Street, Fort Worth Time: 11:30 a.m. Cost: FREE
2. Fall Plant Sale. Not only could you go together as a family to pick out some beautiful native fall plants to plant together, but you can also be a part of the Monarch butterfly tagging project. From their website: "Participate in the gentle tagging and release of monarch butterflies in the Trial Garden! Watch as education horticulturist and entomologist Gail Manning gathers the butterflies as they feed on nectar (flowers available at the plant sale!). A small tag is applied to the hindwing, and the butterfly is released to flutter away, continuing its journey south to Mexico. Be part of a phenomenon of nature- the marvelous migration of the monarch." Place: Fort Worth Botanic Garden Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cost: FREE admission, plants extra
3. Fiestalorico by Balet Folklorico. In lieu of a more sophisticated way to put it, Balet Folklorico are the Mexican dancers with the bright "spinning dresses", as my 4 year old calls them. When we went to Mexico when she was just under 2 years old, she was mesmerized by this type of dance and charmed all our fellow travelers with her attempts to dance just like them. The 6th Annual Fiestalorico will be held at the Fort Worth Community Arts Center in the Cultural District. See website for more details. Location: Fort Worth Community Arts Center, 1300 Gendy Street (across from the Amon Carter Museum). Time: Afternoon performance is from 12-5, Evening performance is at 7:30. Cost: Afternoon -- $5 for 11 and up, under 11 free. Evening -- $10 per person.
SUNDAY, October 14
1. Monarch Migration. The Fort Worth Nature Center will provide a talk on how Monarch butterflies migrate, and then will lead a leisurely stroll through the Nature Center to try to locate the Monarch butterflies. Place: Fort Worth Nature Center. Time: 1-3 p.m. Cost: FREE.
Initial Post
My name is Leann, and I'm a mother of two girls, ages 4 and 5 months. We love finding fun family activities for all of us to enjoy, especially if they're free or cheap! This blog will be dedicated to all types of activities located in the Fort Worth vicinity, and sometimes venturing over to Dallas and beyond, if the activity is worth it. If you know of a great activity, let me know and I'll post it for all to read! Now, on to my first post, for stuff to do in October.
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