Christmastime is Here…
One sure way to insult a stay-at-home mom is to ask this question: “So if you don’t work, what do you do all day?” Um, well, just feed the kids, wash them, make sure their teeth and hair gets brushed, dress them, change a diaper, clean up the kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, do a load of laundry, and a load of dishes and before you know it, it’s 8 a.m. By that time I’ve had all the housework I can take. I’m looking for something that will entertain my kids (and me) and if I can avoid scrubbing grout, even better!
So when I discover some local fun for kids and their adult(s), I’ll post it here. Get out and enjoy it! This stuff is use it or lose it, people…
This Thursday evening (11/20) bring the kiddos downtown and gather in the courtyard (near the fountain) at the Performing Arts Center. At 6:30, the Christmas tree will be lit. Word on the street is Santa will be in attendance. It’s free and your kid’s face will look even more adorable all aglow with Christmas lighting. There will be a reception inside immediately following. It’s sponsored by Saint Laurent Winery, but good news for the kids and non-drinkers, apple juice will be available.
The lighting will mark the beginning of the Festival of Trees. Your kids will enjoy the Festival because it’s everything they love – color and lights. It’ll cost $2 for adults and $1 for kids 2 and older. This charge will be waived if you hold a ticket for any of the day’s events. Be warned that after steering your tots through the displays they will have heightened expectations of you. Your decorations at home will be a big, fat letdown after they see the splendor that hundreds of volunteer hours can create.
Among many events at the Festival there are a few standout kid-friendly things offered.
- A craft station called “Santa’s Workshop” is going to cost you a buck per craft. But in this case, a dollar spent is a mess you don’t have to clean up at home.
- Bring your camera because your child can chill with the big man. Santa’s schedule is as follows:
- Friday, Nov. 21st, 3:00-7:00 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 22nd, 11:00-3:00 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 23, 11:00-3:00 p.m.
- The event that will require a little more prep is the Teddy Bear Tea. Kids dress up in their fancy clothes and bring along their favorite stuffed friend. I’ve never attended but I know in the past this one has sold out. It’ll happen on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. Order your tickets right away. It’s $12 for adults and $10 for kids.
3 Comments
Sarah, your second sentence is priceless! I am going to send that paragraph to my daughter, granddaughter and some friends who’ve been through the “what do you do all day?” question.
And thank you for the info. I will pass it along, also.
Sarah – another great and free thing for kids is the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society. Most people don’t realize what a fun and happy place it is. You can borrow a leash and walk a dog, or take a cat or kitten to the indoor get-aquainted room and play with them. There are often birds and small animal pets to see as well. You don’t have to go with adoption in mind. It’s good for the animals to have the attention, and good for the kids to see and touch the animals. You can even sign up as family volunteers if you decide to go on a regular basis.
In December, they usually hold an “adopt-a-thon” event, with free treats and refreshments, and lots of volunteers on hand to help you.
Again, it doesnt’ have to be about shopping for a pet. Many folks go just to help the animals with some human love.
Cynthia –
Thanks for the new idea! I didn’t know about this one. We’ll check it out for sure. Hopefully more people around town will do the same. I’ll be sure to post my experience here.
- Sarah