New Years Eve Fun - Tacoma

First Night in Tacoma: Downtown Tacoma on Dec 31st from 6:30-Midnight http://bit.ly/vI7h8i

• Programs for kids
• Events all through downtown
• Fire Dancers, Giant Puppets and the Worlds Shortest Parade

Buttons for entry to all the events is $10 for ages 10yrs+ and FREE for those younger and $14 on Dec 31st

New Years Eve Jump at Pump it Up: $10 Dec 31st from 10am-12pm (ages 2-5) or from 6-9pm (ages 9-14)
*Pre-registration is encouraged

• 2 slices pizza & apple juice
• Jump time and a craft

New Years DAY Jump at Pump it UP: $7/$5 (2nd child) Jan 1st from 10-12pm for ages 4-12 - again NOT a drop-off event

Happy Noon Year! at Tacoma Main Library (FREE) Dec 31st 11am

Countdown to noon at an event featuring music by Nancy Stewart.  Decorate a festive party hat, sing songs and have a toast to watch the ball drop at noon. 

Fantasy Lights 5-9pm on Dec 31st and Jan 1st see Holiday page for more details

Point Defiance Zoolights 5-9pm on Dec 31st and Jan 1st 

Tickets at Fred Meyer are only $7 and $8.25 at the gate!

Polar Bear Plunge Jan 1st at 10am for the kiddos and 12pm for adults

*Free, but participants receive coupon for the zoo (remember to bring change of clothes, and a towel, and a hot cocoa!!)

Parents Night Out

Pump It Up Tacoma has a Parents Night Out on Thursdays.  You can drop the kiddos off from 5:30 and pick them up at 8:30 (3hrs) for $15.  The admission includes 2 slices of pizza, drink, jump time, games, stories and more.

Additionally, Cheers West offers free appetizers to parents participating.  http://bit.ly/tudIZf

North End New Years Eve Celebration - Seattle

Seattle Child Magazine has a great list of events in Seattle for children to celebrate the New Years holiday.  Everything from New Years countdowns to other parties at Childrens Museums and the Discovery Museum.  Just because they can't stay up until midnight, doesn't mean they don't want to celebrate too!  Ive been to several of these venues over the last few years and here are my favorites: http://bit.ly/uwurKh

• NY countdown at the Children's Museum, Seattle
• Noon Party at Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge
• New Years Eve Festivities at Seattle Center, Seattle

Recycalpyso Music and Instruments in Puyallup

At the Puyallup library, you can join the jam session and learn all about the history of steel drum music.  Kids of all ages can explore creative ways to turn items they already know about into musical instruments.  This is a concert and a workshop all in one.  Come by and have fun!

More Winter Fun

I found a couple of really great resources for everyone while either on Winter break, or ways to combat the heater-blues.  If you are anything like me, the months of January, February and March can be anti-climatic, especially after the magic of the holiday season.  And, as we have had record dry month in December (I hope I didn't jinx it!), I am placing a few more great ideas here for cold-weather OUTDOOR fun!

Dig for Razor Clams
Four beaches have opened up for holiday clam dig.  Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beachs are open for a razor clam dig Thursday and Friday Dec 22nd and 23rd.  See more here: http://bit.ly/tTnm5O  The Department of Fish and Wildlife officials expect a lot of people so buy your license before heading to the coast to avoid lines at the dealers there.  (Go local spend money in your own county.)

Nisqually Bird Walk
Each Wednesday, Phil Kelley leads a walk through the Nisqually National WIldlife Refuge.  The walk is almost 4 miles and starts at 8am.  Call 360-459-1499 or email scrubjay323@aol.com for more information $3 entrance fee for adults. http://1.usa.gov/uVLq5F

Take a Hike
There are plenty of lower elevation hikes that can be found, from the 6mile drive at Point Defiance, or the walk along Ruston Way or even an afternoon at Dash Point state park.  Remember, if you are using a state or federal reserve there are usually admission fees or you can buy a discovery pass.  If you are going in December, ask when the passes expire! Also, the Tacoma News Tribune has great hike ideas.  One here can be found at: http://bit.ly/u8VqVV

Go play in the snow!
Metro Parks has a great program for family fun up to Mt. Rainier starting in January: Tickets are only $20 for a family of 4 and they transport up the mountain too! http://bit.ly/uJAkLb
Dates are:

• Jan 22 Snowshoe hike 9-4pm
• Jan 29 Snow Day 9-4pm
• Feb 11 Snow Day 9-4pm
• Feb 18 Snow Day 9-4pm
• Feb 25 Snowshoe hike 9-4pm
• Mar 3 Snow Day 9-4pm

Or, you can drive up to Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park yourself.  There is a $15 vehicle fee at both locations.  See www.nps.gov/more and www.nps.gov/olym  Both parks offer great, lower cost options for kids to go sledding or playing in the snow, and all in our own back yard!

Snoqualmie pass also has rates for innertubing fun that are not too hefty: http://bit.ly/suiJ7U

Polar Bear Plunge?!!!

Oh wow, I am not a cold water swimmer.  But for some of you, this might hold a brrrr...cold allure.  Metro Parks is sponsoring its own version of the Polar Bear plunge.

On January 1st at 11:30 for the cubs (Under 10yrs old) and at 12pm for everyone else, jump in the water at Point Defiance Marina Boat Lunch.  Costumes are welcome, but not required AND you get $3 off your admission to the zoo to see the REAL polar bears after.  (I would be too cold to go...again brrr...)  But hey, if this is something you think is fun, or will bring luck in the new year, why not?!?  Make it a tradition.

Model Train Festival - Tacoma

Starting December 26th, through January 1st, 10am-5pm, the Washington State History Museum is hosting its annual model train festival.  The featured trains range in size from very very small to the kind you can actually ride on.  Local and larger clubs are represented and will show scenes from historic villages to a Playmobil town.

I've taken my boys to this for quite a few years.  The conductors are great and very patient with my boys.  They usually have a hands on part for the younger kids to build or play with trains.  I did have to remind my kids frequently to stay behind the ropes so they wouldn't be tempted to touch.  Little fingers accidentally placed on a track can derail a train in a jiffy if they aren't paying attention!  So, being careful is good, but it is a blast.  http://bit.ly/tuOMgO

Admission is:
$8/Adult
$6/Child (6-17yrs) & Military

If you are going on your birthday entrance is FREE

A Visit from Saint Nick | The Children's Museum, Seattle

A Visit from Saint Nick | The Children's Museum, Seattle:

At the Childrens Museum in Seattle, Santa is coming to visit Tomorrow Sat. Dec 17th and Monday Dec 19th from 10-2pm. You can hold a spot through an RSVP at the link above and spots are given on a first come /first served basis.  Visits cost $3 and do not include admission to the Museum.  Something to consider.

At the end of the visit, Santa will read "Twas the Night before Christmas" Have fun!

Miracle on 34th Street at the Grand Cinema

On Dec 18th, at 2pm and Dec 20th at 2pm and at 6:30pm, you can watch Miracle on 34th Street circa 1947 on the big screen at one of my favorite venues, the Grand Cinema.  The Grand, if you are not already familiar with this wonderful movie house, is the only non-profit movie plex in Tacoma.  Not totally sure about the world, but it is one of the best places I've ever been. The staff is courteous and the seats comfortable and don't get me started on the popcorn!

Yes, Im gushing, but this place deserves it!  So, come on by to watch Miracle on 34th Street!  Buy your tickets here: http://bit.ly/sYU01K

3rd Thursday Artwalk

Every 3rd Thursday in Tacoma, they host an artwalk.  Several museums are open to the public and offer specials and great displays.  NOW...show a partnering receipt from downtown Tacoma and get a free skate at Polar Plaza! See http://www.bedowntowntacoma.com/ for more details on the free skate in Tacoma and http://www.artwalktacoma.com/ for details on participating venues:

• Museum of Glass
• Tacoma Art Museum
• Wa State History Museum
• American Art Gallery
• BKB & Company
• Tacoma Glassblowing Studio
• Dragonfly (Sponsor)
• Hotel Murano (Sponsor)
• Tacoma Art Supply & Gallery Wall (Sponsor)

Peter Pan Closing Weekend Tacoma Musical Playhouse

At Tacoma Musical Playhouse, the closing week of Peter Pan is upon us.  For a special deal, the TMP is offering a 4pack of tickets for only $50!  That is roughly $12.50/per person.  This play has received great reviews and is a local, wonderful theater.  Ive been there many times and each performance is a joy!

Offer includes either 2 adult & 2 youth, or 1 adult & 3 youth tickets.  New orders only

http://bit.ly/vm5HgT or 253-565-6867 for more information!

FREE Christmas Movies in Kent

Once Sold Tales is a used bookstore in Kent.  They are showing periodically free movies with free popcorn and coffee/tea for the adults.  Located at 22442 72nd Ave S, these events are easy to get to and are a ton of fun!  Here is the schedule: Click here for more information.  http://www.oncesoldtales.com/

Dec 16 at 7pm: The Polar Express

Dec 17 at 10am: A Christmas Story
Dec 17 at 7pm: Its a Wonderful Life

Dec 18th at 1pm: Muppets Christmas Carol

Click Family Flick - Elf

Every month on the 3rd Saturday of the month, the Grand Cinema in Tacoma partners with the local cable company, Click! to bring you a free family friendly movie.  Only the first 100 are allowed in because of limited seating.  This months movie, on December 17th at 10am is Elf.  This movie is animated and rated PG and is about an Elf, who is not a real elf, but who saves Christmas and Santa Claus anyway.

Since the movie is free, splurge on some of the best movie popcorn Ive ever had and enjoy the ambiance of a great small theater.  The Grand is the only non-profit movie theater in Tacoma and the staff are wonderful.  Enjoy!

Jump n Art Tacoma Pump it Up

For Winter break in Tacoma Schools, Pump it Up is running a Jump n Art event from 9:30am till 2:30pm  for $25 per day.  (Ages 4-10).  The $25 registration amount covers Snacks, games, crafts, lunch and more.  Dec 19th through 29th.Click here for more details.

My kids love to play there and the amount isn't too bad when you think of all that is included, 5hrs of play, crafts, and supervision.

Annual Hampton Gingerbread House Contest

On Friday December 16th - 18th, from 9am-3pm view the gingerbread houses entered into the Annual Hampton Gingerbread House Contest.  1400 Trosper Road SW  Hampton - Alzheimers Special Care Center offers prizes for both Youth and Adult gingerbread houses.

Entries are due on December 15th.

Call 360-786-6062 for more details

White Christmas at Wheelock Library

The Wheelock Library on Saturday December 17th from 2-4pm (doors open at 1:45) to show a classic Christmas movie: White Christmas with Bing Crosby.  His song, I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas is a classic and played on Muzac as well as most home stereos during the holiday season.  Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney and a mucial about a musical.  Can it get any better?  It is no secret I love this move and think it is one of the best movies of all time.  Enjoy the celebration of Christmas, beat the rain and introduce your kids to the start of a great family tradition!

Gingerbread Houses - Milton

The Pierce County Library is hosting an event to let you build your own Gingerbread Houses!

Thursday, December 15th Milton at 4pm

Registration is REQUIRED! 

Build a gingerbread house with your kids and bring how a great decoration for the house in time for the Christmas season.  

Gingerbread Houses - Dupont

The Pierce County Library is hosting an event to let you build your own Gingerbread Houses!

Wednesday, December 14th in Steilacoom at 4pm

Registration is REQUIRED! 

Build a gingerbread house with your kids and bring how a great decoration for the house in time for the Christmas season.

Story Hour at the Conservatory

On Wednesday December 14th, from 11am-12pm, join a storyteller at the Seymour Botanical Conservatory in Wright Park for a story and science project.  The story is Legend of the Poinsettia.  You can make pine cone art and learn about the science of the winter flowers and tress.

This is a FREE event and is a great way to get out of the house, and stay out of the rain, for an educational afternoon.  If the sun is shining, pack a lunch and head over the newly revamped play area in Wright Park.

FREE Christmas Movies in Kent

Once Sold Tales is a used bookstore in Kent.  They are showing periodically free movies with free popcorn and coffee/tea for the adults.  Located at 22442 72nd Ave S, these events are easy to get to and are a ton of fun!  Here is the schedule: Click here for more information.  http://www.oncesoldtales.com/

Dec 9 at 7pm: Chronicals of Narnia The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Dec 10 at 10am: Elf
Dec 10 at 7pm: Nutcracker

Dec 11th at 1pm: Miracle on 34th Street (unknown what version, but all are good)

Caspar Babypants at Tacoma Main Library

On December 6th from 10:30-11:30, at the Tacoma Main Library in downtown, come to the Caspar Babypants concert.  He is back with snappy, rootsy, happy, and intelligent music that will make the whole family want to sing and dance along.  Come for the music, dance the wigglies out and leave with a book.

The Polar Express Movie at the Grand Cinema in Tacoma

On Dec 6th, at 2pm and at 6:30pm, you can watch The Polar Express on the big screen at one of my favorite venues, the Grand Cinema.  The Grand, if you are not already familiar with this wonderful movie house, is the only non-profit movie plex in Tacoma.  Not totally sure about the world, but it is one of the best places I've ever been. The staff is courteous and the seats comfortable and don't get me started on the popcorn!

Yes, Im gushing, but this place deserves it!  So, come on by to watch The Polar Express!  Buy your tickets here: http://bit.ly/u87615

Its a Wonderful Life - Blue Mouse in Tacoma

At the Blue Mouse Theater in Tacoma on Thursday December 8th, Its a Wonderful Life is playing at 7pm.  This is a Christmas Classic.  And, while it is not one for my younger kids, it is a great theater, and watching Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed on the big screen, that is just WOW.

Also, Santa will be at the theater starting at 5:30 to visit with the younger ones.

Bring a donation of food to support the FISH food bank.

Admission:
$5 adults
$4 seniors/kids under 16yrs

Gingerbread Houses - Parkland/Spanaway

The Pierce County Library is hosting an event to let you build your own Gingerbread Houses!

Friday, December 9th in Parkland at 4pm

Registration is REQUIRED! 

Build a gingerbread house with your kids and bring how a great decoration for the house in time for the Christmas season.

Family Holiday Event at Freighthouse

Found this today, on December 10th, Freighthouse Square is hosting a family holiday event.  Bring the kids for a free picture with Santa, create a craft, and donate toys for, not one, but TWO worthy causes...Toys for Tots and at the store The Giving Place, you can pick a gift tag off their Salvation Army giving tree. 

Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.1

Goodwill offers Christmas shops in Tacoma

This is really a cool way to support a wonderful service organization and get your Christmas shopping done too.  The Goodwill is opening up several Christmas boutiques in their stores.  When times are tight and the list  keeps growing, this is DEFINATELY the way to go! 

Tacoma Goodwill adds Christmas shops in Puyallup, Kent and South Lacey – now in five South Sound outlets | The Biz Buzz - The News Tribune

Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.1

Holiday Pier Into the Night - Gig Harbor

At Skansie Brother Park on Dec 3rd from 3-6pm, enjoy a unique view at underwater life during a night dive with lights in the water (After dark), a touch tank and informative lessons brought to you by Harbor Wild Watch.  For more information call Rebecca Mullen at 253-514-0187 or email at rebecca@harborwildwatch.org

Jerisich Dock
3207 Harborview Dr
Gig Harbor

Gingerbread Houses - Dupont

The Pierce County Library is hosting an event to let you build your own Gingerbread Houses!

Saturday, December 10th in Dupont at 10am

Registration is REQUIRED! 

Build a gingerbread house with your kids and bring how a great decoration for the house in time for the Christmas season.

Winter Faire at Tacoma Waldorf school

The Tacoma Waldorf school is hosting a Winter Faire where children and adults are able to make gifts to share with family and friends.  This can be a great way for you to get the kids out of the house, look at the school and have the kids make a gift for the other parent.  Admission is FREE, but activity tickets can cost $1-$4.

Enjoy local artists, musicians and even a puppet play on Saturday Dec 10th, from 10am-4pm at 2710 N Madison Street

Meet Clifford

On December 7th, you can read a Clifford story and then MEET the dog himself.  My boys love Clifford and all the goofy trouble he gets into.  Somehow, it makes their trouble a little bit less.  Clifford will be at two locations this day:

• Main library downtown at 10:30am
• Kobitech in NE Tacoma at 4pm

 Bring a camera and take a picture with your favorite dog.

Gingerbread Houses - South Hill

The Pierce County Library is hosting an event to let you build your own Gingerbread Houses!

Wednesday, December 7th in South Hill from 1-5pm

Drop in anytime!

Build a gingerbread house with your kids and bring how a great decoration for the house in time for the Christmas season.

Wednesday Movie at Wheelock Library

On December 7th, from 6-8pm (Doors open at 5:45), the Wheelock library off of Proctor Street in Tacoma is showing the Nightmare Before Christmas.  This is a great, but unusual movie.  If you've seen it before, then you know what I mean.  Otherwise, suffice it to say, it is a great Tim Burton movie about the confusion of holidays, Halloween and Christmas.  It is rated PG, so it is good for most audiences.

Enjoy the beginning of the Christmas Season and take a break from the rainy nights at the Wednesday Wheelock movies.

Polar Express at the Moore Library

The Polar Express is one of my family's favorite movies.  We enjoy watching it during the holiday season and reading the book all year round.  On December 10th, at 2:30-4pm (doors open at 2:15), the Moore library in Tacoma is offering a free screening of the movie.  Enjoy sugar cookies, juice and take home a jingle bell.  The movie is rated PG, but it is darling.