Holiday Events for the Week of December 1, 2 & 3

Family Fun Sept. 18 & 19 Massachusetts

Hi Families,
Just some reminders about all the fun events going on this weekend in the Bay State.
Highlights are listed below but also check out: http://www.baystateparent.com/current/Calendar_%2528and%2529_Events.

Have fun!
Carrie
editor

Saturday, September 18
Animal Adventures Habitat Fundraiser Yard Sale. 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Super deals on Animal Supplies - Tanks (10 gal to 100 gal!) - Unusual Reptile Enclosures and more ! Yard Sale Bake Sale Discount coupons Bonus Live Animal Shows at 12:00 & 2:00 featuring Naomi the Kangaroo and other Australian animals! All proceeds to benefit our new kangaroo habitat! Animal Adventures 336 Sugar Rd., Bolton, MA phone: 978-779-8988 email: info@AnimalAdventures.net

KidsFest. (This is also Sun., Sept. 19th) Mt. Wachusett, Princeton. American Idol, Ayla Brown will be there as well as WXLO's talent contest. Lots of free samples, kids' activities, entertainment. Take a sky ride to see the views on the chair lift for an additional fee. Check out admission fees and more: http://www.wachusett.com/

Sunday, September 19

Family SculptureFest. Decordova Museum, Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 5 p .m. Enjoy this campus-wide celebration of contemporary sculpture as it takes over all spaces at deCordova–indoors and out. Participate in Sculpture Park tours, scavenger hunts, art-making, art sale, performances, and community-related activities. Check out admission costs and more details: http://www.decordova.org/

FREE StART on the Street. Park Ave., Worcester. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 250+ artists and crafts, live entertainment, food, youth activities. A great place to find unique gifts!! http://startonthestreet.com/ Rain Date: Sept. 26.

Sept. 10, 11, 12 So Much to Do this Weekend!

Fall's downfall is that it offers soo much fun all at once. It really is hard to choose what to do this weekend.

BSP will be hitting the Life is Good Festival in Canton. Can't wait. I saw the Laurie Berkner Band a few years ago at the Opera House in Boston, and they are just GREAT! They'll be at Life is Good this weekend with lots of other big names including Jason Mraz.

I also want to squeeze in the Sterling Fair (between errands, soccer and everything else).

The Wheelock Family Theater in Boston is having an OPEN HOUSE on Saturday, September 11th. Our staff visited there last month and was blown away.



The weather is perfect. Hope you can find some time to something fallishly fun. Enjoy!!!

September 9 – 10: Franklin County Fair .89 Wisdom Way, Greenfield. Thurs., 3 pm; Fri., Noon; Sat. and Sun., 8 a.m. Draft horse show, entertainment, magic show. A $7, Sr. $4, C 11-17 $5, Under 11 free. 413-774-4282.

September 10 - 11: 11^th Annual Olde Home Day. Central Park, Church St., Clinton. Crafters, local food vendors and continuous entertainment. oldehomeday.com.

September 10-11: Our Lady of the Lake Parish Bazaar. 1400 Main St., Leominster. Fri., 5 – 10 p.m., Sat., noon – 10 p.m. A giant Kids Alley, obstacle course, train ride, games, huge white elephant,  potluck, silent auction, and many more booths. 978-342-2978. 

September 10 - 12: Sterling Fair. Sterling Airport, 121 Greenland Rd., Sterling. A two-and-a-half-day community, family-oriented agricultural fair with emphasis on agriculture and education. Details available at sterlingfair.org.

September 11: Blackstone Canalfest. Harding St., Worcester. A classic street festival complete with music, entertainment, vendors, food, an abundance of kids’ activities, horse-and-wagon rides, kayak rides, historic as well as current canal project information, a giant raffle and much more. blackstonecanal.org.

September 11: Do you like Wilco, the Beatles, Neil Young? Merrick Section is playing an outdoor concert in Goodale Park, West Boylston, 7 p.m....great for all ages. Preteens and teens will love the opening band,comprised of local teens, Time Slips Daily,. www.myspace.com/timeslipsdaily
More about Merrick Section: The songs are deep yet catchy, the playing is expressive and intuitive. www.myspace.com/merricksection
Adults are $10; C (12 and up) $5. More info, wbaf.org.

September 11: New Braintree Country Fair. New Braintree. Farm products, police displays, fireman demo, bands, burn outs, car & tractor show, chainsaw competition, scarecrow competition, kids games, pony rides, hay rides, bonfire, beer and wine tent, plant swap. Free kids 12 and under 1-mile race, 4.2 mile adult. 508-867-3583, newbraintreecountryfair.org.

September 11 - 12: Mattoon Street Arts Festival. Mattoon St., Springfield. Features 80+ exhibitors, food vendors and strolling musicians. This is the longest running arts and crafts fair in Western Massachusetts. mattoonfestival.org.

September 12: Life Is Good Festival. Prowse Farm, 5 Blue Hill Rd., Canton. Laurie Berkner Band show time TBA ; festival grounds open 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Children's music superstars and Nick Jr. channel favorites The Laurie Berkner Band will headline the Kids Stage at the Life is Good Festival. The festival features three stages of diverse live music, hands-on games, interactive arts activities and the "Good Kids" zone. 100% of Life is Good's profits from the Festival will go towards The Life is Good Kids Foundation, helping kids who are facing life-threatening conditions, including the trauma of violence, poverty and loss. Every festival attendee will have the opportunity to access exclusive hospitality, preferred viewing, artist meet and greets and other prizes by setting fundraising goals or making a donation to help kids in need. Top fundraisers will be called V.G.P.'s — Very Good People (like V.I.P.'s), and will have a once-in-a-lifetime concert experience. A $50, C 6-12 $10, C 5 and under free. 888-339-2987, lifeisgood.com.

Editor's Note on Life is Good Festival: Keep in mind the $50 Life is Good adult admission is because the Festival is actually a high-quality series of concerts for adults and kids so it's basically a $50 concert ticket. Plus 100% of proceeds help disadvantaged kids.

September 12: Cambridge Carnival. Kendall Square, Boston. Noon – 7 p.m. A colorful and festive celebration that is rooted in African traditions. The highlight is a grand costume parade accompanied by rich rhythmic musicality promoting all types of cultures. Other free activities include stilt walking from Open Air Circus; a moon bounce; arts and craft activities, including origami. and, of course, popcorn. (617-492-2518, cambridgecarnival.org.

September 12 : Peabody International Festival. Main St, Peabody. Experience ethnic foods, music, dance and art. 978-538-5702, peabody-ma.gov.

September 12: Reading Fall Street Faire. Main & Haven St., Reading. 12 – 5 p.m. Over 80 vendors; Radio Disney, dance and street performers, children's area/ kids’ zone, Patriot's tailgate party, classic antique car show, chili "cook-off" contest and more. readingfallstreetfaire.com.

September 12: Pet Rock Festival. Quinsigamond Community College, 670 West Boylston St., Worcester. 12 – 5 p.m. Celebrating its 12th year, this family style festival features live music, demonstrations, speakers, vegetarian food, contests and 100s of tables of exhibitors from New England area animal organizations, including shelters, rescues and more. A see and be seen day for you and your pet. Proceeds benefit New England animal organizations. A$12, C$5. 508-832-8918 or petrockfest.com.

Fun for Weekend of June 25 - 27th!

Hello Families,
In addition to our regular calendar listings that you can find at baystateparent.com, here are some extra ones that bsp gathered this week. Have fun this weekend!!! baystateparent


Two Events especially good for preteens and teens!

PSYCHED! Mission Hill, an alternative rock
band from Boston, is coming to Goodale Park in West Boylston on Sat., June 26, 7 p.m.Kids are free. Adults are $10. Mission Hill is opening for Bon Jovi and Kid Rock at Gillette Stadium on July 24 and performed at the Kiss 108 concert this May. It's a great chance to see a GREAT band in a family-friendly, affordable setting. Check out Mission Hill at www.myspace.com/missionhillband



It's Twilight Night at the Clayground, 65 James St., in Worcester on Friday, June 25th, 6 to 9 p.m. A $5 refundable reservation is required (Your deposit will be deducted from your balance the night of the event). More info: 508-755-7776





Other Fun Events for Family:


Friday, June 25th: Spongebob SquarePants at the Worcester Tornadoes Baseball Team. Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field
1 Fitton Ave., Worcester, MA 01610, 7:05 p.m.
Adults are $6; Seniors, $10, and Children: $5, $10 508-792-2288

worcestertornadoes.com

Free Shuttle to the Franklin Park Zoo on Saturday, June 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
All rides are first come first serve. The Zoo says, "If you’ve made every excuse in the book as to why you can’t visit the state’s wildest attraction (located in your own backyard, mind you!), we’re no longer taking 'no' for an answer! Grab your friends and family and hop on a shuttle for a complimentary ride to Franklin Park Zoo, located a mere 5 miles outside of the city. This is a great opportunity for tourists or those without a car (and those too lazy to take the bus or T!). Be sure not to miss the brand new Aussie Aviary, a free-flight, interactive experience, and our new giraffe feeding station."

PICK-UP/DROP-OFF INFO:Trinity Place @ St. James, adjacent to the Copley Fairmont Plaza Hotel, Back Bay; Washington Street @ Avery, in front of BiNA Osteria, Downtown Crossing

*Please look for the attendant with Zoo signage at each location.
*Shuttles will drop off guests at same pick-up location.
*Estimated ride time is 15 to 20 minutes.

Free with regular paid admission. 617-541-5466 and zoonewengland.org/zoobus

FREE - Nature in Action, Story & Song. Thoreau Farm: Birthplace of Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau Farm, 341 Virginia Road, Concord, MA 01742. Sat, June 26, 1 p.m. Explore the wild and crazy side of natural science with Jackson Gillman, the Stand-Up Chameleon. “Nature in Action, Story & Song” is a rollicking adventure into the lives of wild things of all different stripes, scales, wings and fur. There will be plenty of opportunity for the whole family to stomp, swim, fly, and sing along!
978-369-3091, thoreaufarm.org


The Brookfield Unitarian Universalist Church Concert Series presents Hickory Strings in concert on Sunday, June 27 at 3 p.m. The concert will be held in the stone church located at 9 Upper River Street across from the Brookfield Common.
Hickory Strings blends musical influences from around the world into a unique brand of modern American chamber music. Their unique sound includes elements of classical, jazz, African, klezmer, bluegrass, Celtic, folk, pop, and funk. Hickory Strings music has appeared in films and on public radio. The noted group consists of three musicians including founding members Geoff Brown on guitar and mandolin, and Mark Whitaker on banjo, as well as upright bassist Gian Pangaro. To hear sample recordings visit hickorystringsmusic.com.

The event is open to the public. Suggested donation is $10; $8 for students and seniors; children 12 and under are free.

Help Improve Special Education in Central Massachusetts

The Central MA Special Education Collaborative will host a Golf Outing at Wachusett Country Club, West Boylston, MA on Monday, June 28, 2010 with registration starting at 11:30 AM. Proceeds will benefit all schools with the construction of a year round instructional greenhouse and for the improvement of technology capabilities. There is still space available for individuals or foursomes. Come play or join us for a delicious dinner buffet. For additional information call CMSEC at 508-459-5463 or contact us at www.cmsec.org.

Fairs, Fishing, Sales and Pancakes the Weekend of May 14 - 16

TGIF. Here are some quality happenings that are not in our print calendar. Enjoy!

Mayfair 2010 - Worcester
May 14, 2010 to May 16, 2010
The Worcester Center for Crafts presents this annual showcase of artisan crafts, live music, demonstrations, local food, and more. Location: 25 Sagamore Road. Time: Friday, 2 - 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cost: adults, $7; children under 12, free. Information: 508-753-8183 or visit www.worcestercraftcenter.org.

Spring Spectacular
Natick Community Organic Farm
Saturday, May 15, 10 a.m. - 3 p .m.
117 Eliot St.,Natick. Old-fashioned family fun & learning fair and organic seedling sale. Featuring games, demos, great food, nonprofit & vendor fair, hayride, crafts, live music by many talented local performers. A$10, C$3.508-655-2204, www.natickfarm.org. Save $1 off admission by walking, biking, or taking public transportation to this event

Get Dirty at Farm Work Day in Barre
Organic Farmers Invite Hands On Participation to Kick off Growing Season
Saturday, May 15, 9 a.m. - Noon
Long-time organic farmers Julie Rawson and Jack Kittredge of Many Hands Organic Farm (MHOF), located at 411 Sheldon Rd, in Barre, MA invite the public to see how its done at the first annual Farm Work Day, Saturday, May 15, 2010 from 9AM to 12 noon. A potluck lunch will follow. The event is open to the public; young children must be supervised.

“The public is welcome to join us on the farm for 3 hours of fun and work in the field,” confirmed Julie Rawson, farmer, Many Hands Organic Farm. “If you always wanted to find out what goes on behind the scenes at our CSA, or if you would like to learn more about how to raise your own food, this work day is for you. Children are welcome if supervised.”

Beginning at 9AM, participants will see firsthand what is involved in growing and harvesting fresh, certified, organic vegetables and fruit, eggs and meat. Working side by side with the MHOF farmers, adults and children will learn and go home with increased knowledge about and appreciation for growing food. A potluck lunch will follow at 12 noon; participants are asked to bring a dish to share.

What is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)?

Historically, CSA (brought to this country in the mid-80’s) was established to more directly connect farmers and consumers; get money up front to farmers when they really need it; get consumers the freshest possible produce; and take a little bit of the risk out of farming with a guaranteed market. The farmers at MHOF have been running a CSA since 1992 on the farm.

For more information, call (978) 355-2853, email farm@mhof.net, or visit www.mhof.net and the farm's Facebook page.

MoCo Consignment Sale
Sat., May 15
The Three Rivers Building, Route 140 West Boylston
10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Come fill your kids' closets with inexpensive spring and summer clothes, great gear and toys! Next-to-new items. Baby, toddler, preschoolers. Maternity. Gear. Come check it out, bring friends, you'll be so glad you did. There's also a raffle for a brand-new Bugaboo Stroller! Cash preferred but MasterCard and Visa accepted. RSVPs appreciated but not required. All sales final. www.mothersandcompany.com
**baystateparent recommends you stop by MoCo's sale with the kids as there is PLENTY to do around the area before or after the sale. Grab an ice cream at Meola's on Route 12, walk or bike the Rail Trail on Route 140 and throw rocks in the river or play at Pride Park (Route 140) playground (there are picnic tables there if you want to have a picnic). You can also buy penny candy at a cute penny candy store on Route 140 right near MoCo: Parker's.


Youth Fishing Derby
Sat., May 15
9 a.m. to Noon
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Mirror Lake, Devens
Prizes for the ‘biggest fish’ will be awarded in the
following age groups:
Group 1: 6 and under
Group 2: 7 to 10 years
Group 3: 11 to 15 years
Special prize drawing for all participants!
For more information or to register,
contact Devens Recreation
at 978.772.8875 or visit devenscommunity.com.

Greater Worcester Mother's of Twins Club Sale
Saturday, May 15th
Auburn Public Library, 369 Southbridge St., Auburn
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Worcester MOTC will be selling baby and children's items, clothing, gear, etc. They will also be selling household items. Baked goods will be available for sale to benefit the Greater Worcester Mother's of Twins Club. You don't have to have twins to come, All are invited.
Weather permitting. www.worcester-motc.com
>

World's Largest Pancake Breakfast
Saturday, May 15, 2010
8AM to 11AM on Main Street, Springfield
To complete the menu for the World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast will be 70 gallons of syrup from Friendly Restaurants, 400 pounds of bacon from Carando Classic Italian, 40 pounds of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Coffee, hundreds of gallons of milk, juice and cream from H. P. Hood, and 170 pounds of butter from Agrimark/Cabot Creamery.
The feast of flapjacks will be served by a small army of volunteers and will be complimented by dancers, displays, clowns, costumed characters and more. The atmosphere is friendly and family oriented, and has been a Springfield tradition since 1986 when the City of Springfield celebrated its 350th birthday. Over the past 24 years, it is estimated to have served more than one million helpings.
Breakfast tickets are $1.00 for children, $3.00 for adults and free to area students with a complimentary ticket distributed through local school systems and active military with valid identification.
For more information about the World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast, visit www.spiritofspringfield.org or call the Spirit of Springfield at (413) 733-3800.

North Grafton Elementary Fun Fair
Date: Saturday, May 15, 2010
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Join the fun on Saturday, May 15th from 10:00-3:00, Rain or Shine! The Fun Fair is the largest annual fundraising event for the NGES PTG. Join us for all new kids crafts and games, Magic Show featuring Flippo the Clown, and a gently used Book Sale! Plus, all your familiar favorite activities will be there including; Face Painting, Dunk Tank, Hair Spraying, Tattoos, Speed Pitch, Pony Rides, Cake Walk, Obstacle Course, Inflatable Slide and Jumper! Our Raffle & Silent Auction has well over 100 items, some of which include; Boston Red Sox Tickets, Celtics Tickets, Disney Park Hoppers, 2 Flight Vouchers from Direct Air, Authentic Autographed Bruins Jersey, Shrewsbury Racquet Club, YMCA, Pleasant Valley Country Club, Highfields and many more! Please join us for a great day and support a worthy cause! NGES is located at 46 Waterville St. (RTE. 30). For more information please go to www.NGES-PTG.org

stART on the Street - Worcester
May 16, 2010
Celebrate the end of winter with over 125 artists and crafters from all over New England, live music, children’s activities, and delicious local food. Location: North Main Street. Time: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost: free. Information: visit www.myspace.com/startonthestreet.

Family Fun Finder for March 26 - 28

Here are the new events baystateparent just received for the weekend (and more events follow so be sure to scroll down):

Blooms!
The Boston Flower & Garden Show is at the Seaport World Trade Center this weekend. They are having a new feature, The Garden of Cakes, by some of the region's top professional cake artists. See the latest designs from well-established Boston bakeries as well as the work of smaller, more boutique-oriented shops on the leading edge of cake design. Tickets are: $20.00 for Adults; $17.00 for Seniors (65 and over)
$10.00 for Children (6 to 17); Children under 6 are free
Tickets available onsite or online. All admission prices include an official Show Souvenir Program. http://www.masshort.org/Blooms-2010.

Kids'Theatre Natick
March 26-28, 2010: Mirror Image: A Real Enchanted Musical. Natick Drama Workshop, theater "by kids for kids" for 50 years. Wilson Middle School, 22 Rutledge Road
Natick, MA. Time(s): Fri. 7:30 / Sat. 1:00 & 5:30 / Sun. 2 p.m. Fairytale characters pop off the page and into the day of a real life bunch of high schoolers in this hilarious and musical fantasy. What would you do if the Woodsman, the Wolf, the evil stepsisters and Little Red Riding Hood came to your school unexpectedly?
Adults $7, Children, $5. 508-647-6530, natickdramaworkshop.org


Fair in Groton
Sat., March 27: Spring Artisan/Craft Fair. Shop for unique gifts and seasonal décor at the Union Congregational Church of Groton’s fifth annual Spring Artisan/Craft Fair on Saturday, March 27, from 9 am to 2 pm. The fair will showcase the talents of local artisans and crafters. Offerings will include pottery, wooden rabbits, artwork in several mediums, home décor, painted glassware, embroidered clothing and gifts, baby items, pet products, jewelry, herbs, Groton Minutemen Lanterns, SQUGS and so much more. Refreshments and a delicious lunch will be available, as well as goodies to go. All vendor spaces are taken. Free admission. Union Congregational Church of Groton is located at 218 Main Street (Route 119) on the corner of Willowdale Road.

Egg Hunt in Westborough
FREE Egg Hunt, Fun Day and "One Ton" Food Drive,Chapel of the Cross, 160 Flanders Rd
Westborough. Rain or shine! Over 2000 eggs, free hot dogs, moonwalk, games, crafts & more. Everyone is welcome and all events are free. We are asking everyone who can to bring non-perishable food items to benefit local food banks. Tanya @ (508) 870-0001 ext 102, chapelofthecross.com

Friday 26

Build It! Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. LEGO building for toddlers! Bring your imagination to build, stack, and sort using our enormous collection of DUPLOS. Construct your own architectural wonder or work together to build a museum-community sculpture. $9 admission to one museum or $13 dual admission. discoverymuseums.org

Pajama Parties at Franklin Park Zoo. One Franklin Park Rd., Boston. 7 - 8 p.m. Pajama Parties after the Zoo closes! Registrants for this family-friendly program will receive special late entry to Franklin Park Zoo, a night-time snack, special story time, a craft project, and an upclose encounter with one of our animals! Confirmation and instructions will be sent upon registration. The Cuddly Creatures-themed Pajama Party will be held in the Meeting Barn classroom. This program is for families with children ages 3-8. The cost is $8 per participant, $4 for each additional participant. To register or for more information call 617-989-3742. $8 PP, $4 for each additional participant. franklinparkzoo.org

Grafton Fine Arts and Music Festival. Grafton Fine Arts and Music Festival committee, 30 Providence Rd., Grafton. (through March 28). Friday 7 – 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Student work from Kindergarten through High school is displayed and judged and selected students are awarded savings bond certificates. Free family and childrens' activities will be available in addition to the Art Exhibit. There will be wonderful music and dance performances during the entire weekend on the stage at the Municipal Center gymnasium.Pre-registration is encouraged as there are limited slots available for workshops. Friday reception $5, Saturday and Sunday tickets $3. Under 4, free. 508-887-9969, graftonartsfestival.org

Bitty Bear’s Story Time. American Girl. Natick Collection. 10:30 a.m. It’s story time with the Bitty Bunch! Preschoolers and their parents can hear a reading of Bitty Bear’s Story Time, then enjoy an art activity and tasty treats. Reservations required. For girls 3 and up. $10 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

Homeschool Programs at Wachusett Meadow – Build a Nesting Wreath to Attract Birds. Mass Audubon at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. 1 – 3 p.m. Look at the collection of birds' nests and then gather some nesting materials outside so that you can build a wreath that will bring birds into your own yard. Some materials, such as feathers, moss, dog fur, and lint will be provided. This program is free for adults with child. C $12. 978-464-2712, massaudubon.org

Preschool Story Hour – Salamanders Migrate. Mass Audubon At Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Come enjoy an hour of fun with your youngster, focusing on nature. Read a book, do a craft activity, and go for a walk with Teacher-Naturalist Chris Eaton $10 Fee includes adult/child pair. $ 2 per additional child. 978-464-2712, massaudubon.org

Saturday 27

Nature Tails. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 and 10:30 a.m. Come meet a female naturalist from The Blue Hills Trailside Museum! Learn a memorable nature lesson through a story and the presentation of a live animal. Appropriate for children ages 4-6. $9 admission to one museum and $13 dual admission. discoverymueums.org.

FREE Storytime & Craft. The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. Spring cleaning-help us clean out the craft closet and enjoy stories & crafts from last year. coop.com

Wear the World - From Junk to Jewelry. Hands on 4 Kidz, 44 Main St, Gardner. 1 – 3:30 p.m. Girls in grades 4 and 5 will discover themselves and their friends as they journey around the world in jewelry. Do you have what it takes to design your own ring? Did you know that opals are nature's own mood ring? $ 8 per girl. 800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

Woolapalooza. Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Celebrate Drumlin Farm’s sheep with fiber, food, and fun! See traditional sheep shearing, watch border collies heard sheep, and purchase a lunch made with Drumlin Farm meat and veggies! Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 781-259-2206 or at the door. A $10, C $8, uder 2, free.

Full Moon Owl Prowl for All Ages. Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Come with the whole family to learn how to locate and identify owls. Learn about their calls, behavior and habitat. Search for our frequent evening owl visitors, the screech owl and great horned owl. A $ 12, C $ 8. 508-655-2296.

Fit Kids Jamboree. Newton Community Service Ctr., 492 Waltham St., Newton. 9 - 11:00 a.m.; 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 2 – 4 p.m. An opportunity to experience fun athletic games, make healthy snacks, enjoy craft projects and more. Parents learn tips to help their children be active and healthy. No cost to adults who accompany a paying child. $20 for the first child and $10 for each additional child. 617-935-9856, fattmanproductions.com/forkids

FREE Crafts for Kids! Lakeshore Learning Store, 230 Needham St., Newton. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. My Puppet Pal. A playful puppet… decorated with lots of crazy collage materials like buttons, stickers, feathers and more! Also at 352E Broadway, Saugus. 617-969-1171 or 781-233-3770, lakeshorelearning.com

Indigenous Birds of Prey. Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth. 11 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 2 p.m. Come to Plimoth Plantation for two chances to meet Natasha Hawke, a licensed falconer, and educator. She will be delivering a presentation on the art and sport of modern day falconry (hunting with hawks and other raptors) as well as a quick overview of some raptor anatomy, habitat, predators, and facts. In addition, guests will discover how these birds are still a very important part of Native culture today. Best of all, there will be a live hawk and a falcon for all to meet. This presentation is geared to all ages, and questions are welcome. This is a ticketed event for Plimoth Plantation museum visitors. Tickets: A$6, C (6 – 12)$4, under 5, free. plimoth.org

Being Two Moms Brunch. Mothers & Company, 140 Worcester St., West Boylston 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Cloth Diaper Workshop, 1 – 3 p.m. Call to register for either program. 508- 835-6666. mothersandcompany.com

Sunday 28

Face Painting Fun. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Be a butterfly, a tiger, or anything else you can imagine as we decorate your face. Free with admission. $9 admission to one museum and $13 dual admission. discoverymueums.org.

NanoDays Celebration. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 2 – 4:30 PM (Also March 30 and 31). A nationwide festival of educational programs about nanoscale science and engineering. Discover the exciting world of nanoscale through hands-on activities. From gecko feet to nano fabrics, learn how materials have unexpected properties at the nanoscale. Find the nano in your everyday life and learn why scientists and engineers hope nanotechnology can solve problems - from energy efficiency to medicine. Free with admission. $9 admission to one museum and $13 dual admission. discoverymueums.org.

Special Sundays. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Rd, Amherst. 1 – 4 p.m An additional art activity in the back of the Art Studio. Always a surprise and sometimes messy, so bring a smock! Free with admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, under 1, free, family $22.50. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

Folk Arts. Lunenburg Teen Ctr., 15 Memorial Drive. 1 – 4 p.m. Folk Arts have existed in all cultures throughout time. They reflect the stories, myths, and symbols of a culture. In this workshop girls in grades 6-12 explore some of the many facets of folk arts with some hands on crafts. Learn about fairy tales & folk tales and design your own along with a piece of folk art based on your story. Sponsored by Art to Gogh and Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $11 Per girl. Lynn at 800-462- 9100 x3604 or email lchaput@gscwm.org.

FREE Rebecca Crafts & Activities. American Girl. Natick Collection. 2 – 4 p.m. Girls can make the crafts Rebecca Rubin would have loved! At this free event, girls can create three crafts inspired by the stories of our newest historical character: a charity box, a photo frame, and a carousel horse. Bring your camera to take your girl’s photo in front of an illustrated backdrop featuring Rebecca! For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com

Rebecca’s Movie Fun Day. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4:30 p.m. Join the celebration and learn about Rebecca’s love for acting and the movies. Enjoy a delicious meal together and a keepsake memory booklet to help commemorate this special day. Reservations required. For girls 8 and up. $26 PP (gratuity not included). 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

Family Happenings on Sunday, March 21

Hi Everyone,
These events came in after we went to print with our March calendar.
Have fun this weekend. It's going to be beautiful!
Carrie Wattu, editor

MAPLE SUGAR WEEKEND
March 20 and 21 the Stevens will host a free Pancake Breakfast Weekend from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., weather permitting. “The grill will be open for anyone wanting to bring something to grill. We have a rope swing for the kinds, mud puddles for the little ones to play in, and hiking trails for folks to enjoy.”
Maple Ledge Farm is located at 26 Vinton Rd, Sturbridge. For more information call 508-347-5558 or visit their web site at http://www.webspawner.com/users/mapleledge/index.html.

CHILDREN'S BOOK FAIR
Join us for Easter-themed craft projects, story-time, and much more at Trinity Church’s first Children's Book Fair! Parents find goodies for your child's Easter basket while browsing our shop’s wide array of children’s titles ranging from local favorites Make Way for Ducklings and Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel to Mo Willem’s Pigeon series. Select items and titles will be on sale. We hope to see you there!

Where: Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon Street, Boston, MA 02116. When: Sunday, March 21 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. More info: Please contact Zoe Langosy at 617-536-0944 ext. 243 or zlangosy@trinitychurchboston.org.

MONTESSORI OPEN HOUSE
FREE Spring Open House. Oak Meadow Montessori School, 2 Old Pickard Lane
Littleton, MA 01460. Oak Meadow Montessori School invites prospective families for the 2010-2011 school year to our Spring Open House; Sunday, March 21, 2010– 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Stop by and learn what a Montessori education is all about.

All families are welcome to attend and visit classrooms, tour our brand new athletics and performing arts center, and speak with teachers and current students. Oak Meadow is a non-profit Montessori school that provides an interdisciplinary and academic curriculum for students from preschool through grade eight in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Oak Meadow Montessori School, 2 Old Pickard Lane, Littleton. For more information, visit www.oakmeadow.org or contact the admission office at 978-486-9874 x226; email admissions@oakmeadow.org.

Mothers and More Meets in Hopkinton on Monday, March 15, 2010

Hi Moms, We just received this release. It didn't make our March issue but thought you might want to check this out. Sounds interesting... Carrie Wattu, editor

Press Release

Your Parenting Personality: Enhance your strengths by understanding your style

Every child is different, and so is every mother. Developing a strong knowledge of your own personality style can help you identify your strengths as a parent -- and enable you to better support your child. Moms from area towns are welcome to join a free discussion of personality type and parenting on Monday, March 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. at 2 West Elm Street in Hopkinton (meeting room at Community Covenant Church).

This event is sponsored by the Central 495 Chapter of Mothers & More, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting mothers as they navigate the challenges of daily life, whether they are full-time family caregivers or balancing caregiving with paid work.

In addition to monthly discussions of specific aspects of parenting and family life, the Central 495 Chapter offers a variety of activities for moms in area towns: Moms’ Night Out, book club, Movie Moms, playgroups, community service projects, and more.

For more information, email MnMCentral495area@gmail.com or visit www.mothersandmore.org/chapters/495Area.


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Calendar listing

Monday, March 15, 7 to 9 p.m. Area moms discuss “ Your Parenting Personality: Enhance your strengths by understanding your style.” Sponsored by Mothers & More (Central 495 Area Chapter) at 2 West Elm Street, Hopkinton (meeting room at Community Covenant Church). For more information, email MnMCentral495area@gmail.com or visit www.mothersandmore.org/chapters/495Area.

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General listing

Mothers & More (Central 495 Area Chapter) meets from 7 to 9 p.m. on the third Monday of every month at 2 West Elm Street, Hopkinton (meeting room at Community Covenant Church). The group offers a variety of activities for moms in area towns: Moms’ Night Out, book club, Movie Moms, playgroups, community service projects, discussions on parenting and family life, and more. For information, email MnMCentral495area@gmail.com or visit www.mothersandmore.org/chapters/495Area.

Sat., March 6: Cat in the Hat Breakfast in Lunenburg

It's Dr. Seuss' Birthday!!! Make some plans from all of the events listed in our March calendar or check this one out that just came in:

Cat In The Hat Breakfast - Lunenburg
The 8th Annual Cat In The Hat breakfast will be held on Saturday March 6, 2010, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. at the United Parish's Andrews Hall, 39 Main Street, Lunenburg, MA. Children 4 and younger $3.00, all others $5.00. Don't miss the fun! Green eggs (yellow too) and ham, pastries, Stillman's milk, juice, coffee, meet the Cat In The Hat and hear a story, make a craft, take a chance in a raffle ($1 per chance or 6 chances for $5) and a $1 potluck table. Sponsored by MA. Family Networks/SLS. For more information contact 978-582-4129.

Help Rescue Abused and Neglected Horses

Animal Loving Families of the Bay State:
FYI: baystateparent just received this press release for an event that helps abused and neglected horses.


Bay State Equine Rescue 7th Annual
Wine, Beer, & Liquor Tasting

Sunday March 28, 2010
3-6 PM
Castle Restaurant, 1230 Main Street, Leicester, MA
Enjoy the sounds of the Brian & Hugh Jazz Duo, the Castle's superb hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, and free Godiva chocolate.
Be sure to take part in the ever popular raffle and silent auction.

Tickets: Wine & Beer: pre pay $30/person or 4/$100. ($35/person at the door)
Wine, Beer, & Liquor: pre pay $40/person or 4/$140 ($45 at the door)

Pay by check: BSER, c/o Karin Orsi, 286 Auburn Street, Cherry Valley, MA 01611
Pay with paypal: www.baystaterescue.org
Get tickets at Equine Essentials, 2 Fairlawn Ave, Oxford, MA 508-731-0071

Bay State Equine Rescue (BSER) is an all volunteer, non profit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused and neglected horses. The rescue is located in Oakham, MA and was established in 2002.

Worcester's Birthday Party for Children in Homeless Shelters

Birthday Wishes is a non-profit organization that provides birthday
parties to children living in area homeless shelters.

On Saturday, March 27 Birthday Wishes Worcester will be throwing Worcester
County's biggest birthday party at Coral Seafood from 1 - 4 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public and its purpose is two-fold. They
need to increase awareness of their mission within Worcester County to
attract volunteers and donations, and they need to raise money to
continue bringing birthday parties to children living in the eight homeless
shelters they currently serve. The more volunteers, donations and dollars they
can attract, the more birthday parties we can deliver.



The biggest birthday party will offer the public a great fun, family
experience with games, arts and crafts, entertainment and food. There will
be a raffle to raise money, but the entry fee will be free.


If you would like additional information on Birthday Wishes visit www.birthdaywishes.org or
contact Julie Stanwood, regional coordinator at
jstanwood@birthdaywishes.org. or call 774-267-9133

Family Fun in Massachusetts on Saturday, February 6th

Everyone’s a kid at the Zoo!
Don’t miss “Kids’ Price Saturday on February 6th!”
Feel like a kid again when visiting the Zoos! From 10:00 a.m. - noon on the first Saturday of every month, all guests will be charged the children's admission price ($8.00 at Franklin Park Zoo and $7.00 at Stone Zoo). Visit www.zoonewengland.org for more info.

Franklin Park Zoo: Stone Zoo:

One Franklin Park Road 149 Pond Street

Boston, MA 02121 Stoneham, MA 02180


Breakfast Honors Local Heros and Veterans at the Veterans Inc. Retreat Center, Shrewsbury
(Old Calvary Retreat Center) 59 South St. , Shrewsbury

Sponsored by: Shrewsbury Republican Town Committee

Breakfast from 08:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Honoring of Veterans at 10 AM.

Please join in this community breakfast
celebrating those that keep us free.

Also, help to recognize local heros!

Do you know of those that have or currently are serving our country?

Is it your son or daughter? Please send name(s) and a brief bio to

srtc09@yahoo.com or mail to: Shrewsbury RTC, 5 Woodchuck Hill Rd.,

Shrewsbury, MA 01545. Please RSVP if he or she will attending the

Liberty Breakfast on Feb. 6th. For more info call Amanda Riik at 508-791-0956

ext.123, email Amandariik@veteransinc.org. Or Mindy McKenzie-Hebert at 508-

736-7723, email: MindyGOP@gmail.com.

ALL DONATIONS GIVEN WILL SUPPORT VETERANS INC.

Teen Community Service Fair

Boston Area Community Service Fair Offers

Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

What: More than 1000 people are expected to attend the Third Annual TeenLife Boston Community Service Fair, designed to connect teens in grades 7-12 with more than 40 non-profit organizations that actively engage teen volunteers.

When: Sunday, February 7, 2010 from 12 noon – 4 p.m.

Where: Mall at Chestnut Hill, 199 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Why: Most Greater Boston middle and high school students are required or encouraged to spend time outside of school volunteering for non-profits. The benefits of volunteerism include increased self-esteem, a feeling of being valued, the opportunity to meet new people, the acquisition of valuable new skills, and a lifetime of wonderful memories and experiences.

Exhibitors:

More than 40 non-profits organizations and 35 sponsors and supporting exhibitors that make the event possible. Exhibiting non-profits include The American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay, ArtsBoston, Big Brother Big Sister Foundation, Boston Cares, City Year, Cradles to Crayons, DoSomething.org, The Food Project, Museum of Science, Roots & Shoots, Tenacity, and others.

Entertainment will be provided throughout the afternoon by area high school a cappella groups, including performers from Norwood High School, BC High School, Nobles and Greenough, Roxbury Latin School, Belmont Hill School, Boston Latin School, Wayland High School, Brookline High School

Registration:

Pre-registration is encouraged. To register, visit www.teenlife.com.

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