PhillyFun4Kids

I don’t know about you guys but I’m doing pretty much anything at all that I can do to think about warmer weather to come and block out the bitter cold and icy, slippery winter walkways and bitter temps out there these days. That’s why I’m particularly excited to bring you this fabulous “Think Summer” giveaway from my sweet friend Donna, owner of DMZ Designs to launch her newest kid-friendly venture DMZ Designs for Kids!! Donna hand crafts beautiful home decor that she personalizes. I love all of her home items especially her gorgeous wreaths and unique slate sets. I gave a slate set as a wedding gift this summer and it was just perfect. I’ve been getting personalized teacher gifts with Donna each holiday season and they are the absolute cutest and teachers really like them! Donna’s unique designs have been featured in Country Sampler magazine and many area craft and arts shows. And now Donna has launched her latest endeavor, DMZ Designs for Kids! DMZ Designs for Kids features the best and most unique personalized items for kids like name door signs,  peg signs, name frames and more!

Look at some of these other great kids items available from DMZ Designs for Kids:

DMZ Designs For Kids can be your new one stop shop for baby or kid gift giving needs with everything from baby baskets, piggy banks, peg racks, room decor and lots more. There are handcrafted, personalized gifts for all occasions!

GIVEAWAY
To help Donna launch her new endeavor in a big way we’ve teamed up and are giving away an adorable personalized beach chair and umbrella set to one lucky phillyfun4kids reader!! To enter, simply fill out the simple rafflecopter form below. Giveaway ends midnight March 8th. Good luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: DMZ Designs For Kids provided one kids beach chair and umbrella set for the purpose of this giveaway. As always, all opinions expressed about locally crafted awesome gifts and products that support independent small business owners and are totally stinking cute to boot being awesome are our own!! 

Hooray for long weekend festivities to help take away some of this bitter chill in the air! Valentine’s celebrations, President’s Day weekend fun and more will warm you and your little ones up and provide for festive family time all weekend long!

Wild at Heart
Saturday Feb. 14th – Sunday Feb. 15th
10am – 4pm
Philadelphia Zoo
3400 W. Girard Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Warm up and get a little wild with the kiddos this weekend at the Philadelphia Zoo’s Wild at Heart running Saturday February 14th and Sunday February 15th from 10am – 4pm. This special celebration will feature love-themed activities all weekend long including a guided tour of famous couples at the Zoo and offerings of special treats by the zookeepers, too. Free with Zoo admission. $16 for adults and children. Under 2 free.

PNC Grow Up Great: Musical Theater
Saturday Feb. 14th
11am
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s the next in the Free at the Kimmel series of family events this Saturday February 14th at 11am featuring Musical Theater. Head to the Commonwealth Plaza at the Kimmel for an interactive introduction to the vibrant and exciting world of musical theater with sing-alongs to your favorite show tunes and more! Sponsored by PNC’s Grow Up Great program. Free.

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Making Demonstration
Saturday Feb. 14th
11am – 4pm
The Betsy Ross House
239 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this free colonial chocolate making demonstration at The Betsy Ross House this Valentine’s Day Saturday February 14th from 11am – 4pm. Free.

The Art of the Brick
Friday February 13th – Monday February 16th
The Franklin Institute
222 N. 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Art of the Brick continues Friday February 13th through Monday February 16th at the Franklin Institute. This new display of LEGO brick masterpieces explores the intersection of art and science and will delight builders and LEGO fans of all ages. Tickets $24-$29 and does not include museum admission.

President’s Day and Valentine’s Day Weekend
Saturday February 14th – Monday February 16th
National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

There’s something to celebrate all weekend long at the National Constitution Center! Starting Saturday February 14th, Valentine’s fun will include stories of presidential romance such as that shared by John and Abigal Adams and James and Dolley Madison. Then on Monday February 16th participate in a Kids Town Hall and special meet and greets with beloved past presidents including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, too. Plus take part in themed activities and crafts celebrating Presidents and African American History too. $10 adults, $5 children ages 4-12. Free admission on President’s Day.

Passport to Discovery: Scandinavia
Saturday February 14th – Sunday February 15th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Cherry Hill, NJ

Head to the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill this weekend Saturday 14th and Sunday February 15th for their next Passport to Discovery series featuring Scandinavia. $12.95 plus tax.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday February 13th – Monday February 16th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues this holiday weekend at the Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday February 13th through Monday February 16th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. And on Monday February 16th, be sure to wear your Flyers gear and get to skate with Flyers Alumni Bob Kelly and Joe Watson. Free Flyers t-shirts for fans 12-1:30pm while supplies last. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday February 13th – Monday February 16th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

President’s Day Open Gym
Monday February 16th
12-2:30pm
NEST Philly
1301 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA

No school Monday? No problem! NEST Philly has you covered with their President’s Day Open Gym on Monday February 16th from 12-2:30pm for kids through age 7. Let the kids exert some energy in this safe and fun playspace including some parachute and other interactive activities with Mr. Brett, too! $15 for non-members ($5 for each additional sibling).

Pippi Family Fun Day
Monday February 16th
10am – 3pm
American Swedish Historical Museum
1900 Pattison Ave
Philadelphia, PA

It’s Pippi Family Fun Day at the American Swedish Historical Museum this Monday February 16th from 10am – 3pm. Bring the whole family out for a chance to check out this special exhibition’s last day in its current space before it moves to a new gallery and of course enjoy Pippi Longstocking themed crafts, and light refreshments, too.

February is in full swing and the fun is heating up with author events, pre-Valentine’s Day fun, Chinese New Year activities and much more for the whole family!

The Art of the Brick – Opening Weekend
Saturday Feb. 7 – Sunday Feb. 8
The Franklin Institute
222 N. 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Art of the Brick opens Saturday February 7th at 9:30am at the Franklin Institute. This new display of LEGO brick masterpieces explores the intersection of art and science and will delight builders and LEGO fans of all ages. Opening Day fun on Saturday includes LEGO Brick Building Challenges, special Star Wars character appearances, free screenings of The Lego Movie, more. $24-$29. Does not include museum admission.

Philadelphia Auto Show
Saturday Feb. 7th – Sunday Feb. 8th
The Pennsylvania Convention Center
1101 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Philadelphia Auto Show wraps up for its final weekend running Saturday February 7th through Sunday February 8th. Auto fans of all ages will be able to explore over 700,000 square feet showcasing the top autos in the country with 700 vehicles on display. Adults $13, children ages 7-12 $6. Six and under free with ticketed adult.

Passport to Discovery: African Drum and Dance
Saturday Feb. 7th – Sunday Feb. 8th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Cherry Hill, NJ

Head out to the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill this weekend Saturday February 7th and Sunday February 8th for their next Passport to Discovery series featuring African Drum and Dance. $12.95 plus tax.

Ramah Day Camp at the Please Touch Museum
Saturday Feb. 7th
Please Touch Museum
4231 Avenue of the Republic
Philadelphia, PA

The Ramah Day Camp hosts a day of playtime and fun on Saturday Feb. 7th starting at 12pm. Enjoy the afternoon at the museum with your family and a visit from the Ramah Day Camp director, staff and families between 2-3:30pm to learn more about RDC. Free with check-in at the RDC table.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday Feb. 6th – Sunday Feb. 8th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues this February at the Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday February 6th through Sunday February 8th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday Feb. 6th – Sunday Feb. 8th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Celebrate Love Your Pet Month
Sunday Feb. 8th
1:30 – 3:30pm
Lansdowne Library
55 South Lansdowne Ave
Lansdowne, PA

Head to the Lansdowne Library on Sunday February 8th from 1:30-3:30pm as Skippyjon Jones author, Judy Schachner, reads from her new book Snow What at a celebration of pets sponsored by Animal Friends of Lansdowne and the Lansdowne Library. Books will be available for purchase and signing. All proceeds to benefit Animal Friends of Lansdowne. Come in costume and win a prize! Free.

PECO Family Jams: You-tensils
Sunday Feb. 8th
12-4pm
Philadelphia Magic Gardens
1020 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

This month’s PECO Family Jams happens Sunday February 8th from 12-4pm at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens. This one of a kind family oriented programs will focus this month on self portrait sculptures made by families from silverware as well as family friendly tours at 1pm and 3pm. Free with admission. $7 for adults, $3 for ages 6-12, free for children 5 and under.

Second Sunday Family Workshop
Sunday Feb. 8th
1pm
Chinese Dragon Puppet
Penn Museum
3260 South Street
Philadelphia PA

The Penn Museum hosts this Second Sunday Family Workshop on Sunday February 8th at 1pm. Drop in and get hands-on as kids and their caregivers use paper-cutting to craft a puppet in honor of the Chinese New Year and get a special animal-themed tour of the China gallery, too. $15 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6-17 and free for 5 and under.

Celebrate Charles Dickens’ 203rd Birthday
Sunday Feb. 8th
2pm
Griffin Hall, University of the Sciences and Clark Park
East Side of 43rd just north of Woodland
Philadelphia, PA

Join locals in West Philadelphia for this celebration of Charles Dickens’ 203rd Birthday at a free, fun family event featuring indoor performances of scenes from The Pickwick Papers and Oliver Twist and other special readings followed by treats for all, Dickensian socializing, and a performance by the Kingsessing Morris Men, first place winners in the comic division at the 2012 Mummers Parade. Free.

We LOVE author and children’s book events here at phillyfun4kids and even more so when they’re books about our favorite furry animal – cats!! Here are three feline focused upcoming local events that you don’t want to miss:

Pete the Cat Night
Friday Feb. 6th | 5-6:30pm
Holy Child Academy
475 Shadeland Ave
Drexel Hill, PA

Holy Child Academy in Drexel Hill, PA invites all children, ages 3, 4, 5, and 6, accompanied by their parents, to come along to Holy Child Academy as we keep singing Pete’s song! We will play games, listen to stories, sing songs, make arts and crafts, and enjoy pizza, lemonade, and a treat! To register, please complete the form below and submit to Chris McLaughlin at Holy Child Academy.

Parents Night Out Pete The Cat
Friday February 6th | 6-9pm
NEST Philly
1301 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA

NEST Philly is offering a fun Pete the Cat themed Parents Night Out for the kids at NEST while moms and dads enjoy a night on the town. Nest will provide supervised open gym, games, activities, crafts and story-time including pizza from Santucci’s Pizza & popcorn! Children must be potty-trained and between the ages of 2 and 8 years old. Cost: $30/ single child; $45/ 2 children; $55/ 3+ children
Space is limited, please call Nest at 215.545.6378 to reserve or enroll online.

Celebrate Love Your Pet Month at Lansdowne Library
Sunday February 8th | 1:30-3:30pm
Lansdowne Library
55 South Lansdowne Ave
Lansdowne PA 19050

Head to the Lansdowne Library on Sunday February 8th as Skippyjon Jones author, Judy Schachner, reads from her new book Snow What at a celebration of pets sponsored by Animal Friends of Lansdowne and the Lansdowne Library. Books available for purchase and signing. All proceeds to benefit
Animal Friends of Lansdowne. Come in costume and win a prize! Free.

It’s the last weekend of January – enjoy Groundhog Day fun and Superbowl weekend too! In addition to game day fun there is plenty to do to get you and your little ones out of the house and enjoying all there is to do in and around Philly this weekend!

Groundhog Day Family Festival
Saturday January 31st
9am – 1pm
John Heinz Wildlife Refuge
8601 Lindberg Blvd
Philadelphia, PA

Join the Groundhog Day Family Fun at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge this Saturday January 31st starting at 9am. Festivities include a guided Groundhog Walk at 9am, plus sing-alongs, live music, themed crafts and more. And of course learn all about the refuge’s groundhog family too and parade to “Tinicum Tim’s” burrow to get the big answer to the question of whether we’ll see more winter or early spring. Free.

Philadelphia Auto Show
Saturday January 31st – Sunday February 1st
The Pennsylvania Convention Center
1101 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Philadelphia Auto Show rolls into town this weekend running Saturday January 31st through Sunday February 1st. Auto fans of all ages will be able to explore over 700,000 square feet showcasing the top autos in the country with 700 vehicles on display. Adults $13, children ages 7-12 $6. Six and under free with ticketed adult.

Passport to Discovery: Greece
Saturday January 31st – Sunday February 1st
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Cherry Hill, NJ

Head out to the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill this weekend Saturday January 31st and Sunday February 1st for their next Passport to Discovery series highlighting the culture and customs of Greece. $12.95 plus tax.

Parents Night Out
Saturday January 31st
6-9pm
MyGym Springfield
Springfield Square South
Springfield, PA

Drop the kids off at MyGym Springfield for a Parents Night Out that’s a fun night for the littles with games, relays, activities, rides, toy time, free play, and more! Pizza and drinks provided! Perfect for ages 2-9 years (potty trained please). $30 (non-members)/$25 members for the first child, $15 for siblings.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues into February at the Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 30th through Sunday February 1st. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 30th – Sunday February 1st
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings and PNC Arts Alive Family Programs: Artful Animals
Sunday February 1st
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum of Art  on Sunday mornings including this Sunday February 1st between 9:30am – 12pm. And this Sunday families can take part in the PNC Arts Alive program exploring the more artistic side of animals through Jamie Wyeth’s eye in his paintings at exhibit at the Brandywine River Museum of Art. Free.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 30th – Sunday February 1st
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the final weekend of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Company this weekend Friday January 30th – Sunday February 1st. This bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast is a family friendly performance that will mesmerize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters and how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1hr and 30mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

Free Sundays at the Barnes and ArtSee Activities: Family Ties
Sunday February 1st
The Barnes Foundation
2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

The first Sunday of the month means free admission to The Barnes Foundation from 10am – 5pm on Sunday February 1st. And this Sunday the Barnes offers its family friendly ArtSee activities with Family Ties themed events featuring images of families taking center stage and in honor of Horace Pippin’s art and birthday. Free.

There may be more snow in the weekend forecast but there’s still plenty of fun to enjoy at one of these family fun events. Escape the wintery weather by thinking about summer camp options at the MetroKids Summer Camp Fair or learn more about Scottish culture at the Up Helly AA Day celebration at the Garden State Discovery Museum and lots more fun for the whole family!

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Recess Monkey
Saturday January 24th
11:30am
World Café Live
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the nationally acclaimed “Recess Monkey” – a trio of teachers who make music for kids and families that really rocks this Saturday January 24th at 11:30am as part of the Peanut Butter and Jams kids music series at World Cafe Live. Tickets $10. Doors 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Up Helly AA Day: Scottish Festival
Saturday January 24th – Sunday January 25th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Cherry Hill, NJ

Head out to the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill this weekend Saturday January 24th and Sunday January 25th for their next Passport to Discovery series highlighting cultures from around the world. The Scottish Festival will feature plaids, pips and processions that are integral to the Scottish Viking festival to ring in the end of the Yule season. $12.95 plus tax.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Despite the weekend warm up, the wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 23rd through Sunday January 25th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday January 25th
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 25th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmerize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Cassandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1hr and 30mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

MetroKids 7th Annual Summer Camp Fair
Sunday January 25th
1-4pm
Conshocken Marriott
111 Crawford Ave
W. Conshocken, PA

The MetroKids 7th Annual Summer Camp Fair takes place this Sunday January 25th from 1-4pm. Bring the whole family for this free event that will include hands on activities, prizes, demonstrations and more and of course learn about the wonderful array of local camps available for kids this summer. Free.

On Saturday night I had the chance to check out the Philadelphia Home Show when my friend Denise Sabia from The Painted Home interiors invited a few of us to her fabulous preview party to check out the great rustic outdoor space she designed. It was such a fun time and great to see what unique and different designs these talented local interior decorators were able to create! Denise was one of five participants in the 2015 Designer Challenge. Here is her beautiful design space “rustic outdoor charm” – isn’t it lovely? Don’t you just want to hang out here for hours sipping a cocktail and loving that outdoor fireplace?? She did an amazing job (as always)!

There is much to see and do at the Philadelphia Home Show which runs Monday January 19th and then wraps up next weekend Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th. Don’t miss celebrity and guest speakers, great vendors, and so more.

Today Monday January 19th is Hero Day at the Philadelphia Home Show Hero – get one free ticket for Military, Firefighters, Teachers, Nurses and Police Officers with valid ID or badge.

And new this year, guests can park free at the South Philadelphia IKEA and take the PhillyPHLASH free to the Convention Center.

Now one lucky phillyfun4kids reader can score 4 free tickets to the Home Show! Just fill out this easy Rafflecopter form below. Flash giveaway ends on Wed. so enter soon! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided with four free tickets to the Philadelphia Home Show from A Painted Home for the purposes of giving away to one of my lucky readers. As always all opinions expressed about local Philly designers being talented or free tickets to the home show being awesome are my own! 

Horry for the weekend! There’s plenty of family fun to be had in Philly this weekend with celebrations of Benjamin Franklin’s 309th Birthday, remembering the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and plenty of Frozen fun for the whole family this long holiday weekend!!

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Ken Waldman
Saturday January 17th
11:30am
World Café Live
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss Alaska’s “Fiddling Poet” Ken Waldman when he returns to his native Philadelphia for a morning of family music and fun at World Café Live this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am as part of the Peanut Butter and Jams series. Tickets $10. Doors 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Despite the weekend warm up, the wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 16th through Sunday January 18th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest and Celebrate the Movies: Frozen
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. And don’t miss Celebrate the Movies: Frozen on Saturday January 17th with a Frozen sing-along, giveaways and raffles, Royal Photo Booth and lots more Frozen fun for the whole family! Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Benjamin Franklin’s Birthday Celebration
Saturday January 17th
Historic Philadelphia Center
6th & Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss Benjamin Franklin’s birthday celebration at the Historic Philadelphia Center this Saturday January 17th at 1pm. Celebrate our city’s favorite founding father with the Liberty 360 3D show, a special appearance by Ben, storytelling, crafts and of course birthday cake. Free.

Free Admission to the Benjamin Franklin Museum
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Benjamin Franklin Museum
317 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy free admission at the Benjamin Franklin Museum this Saturday January 17th through Monday January 19th as well as special programs celebrating the 309th Birthday of Philly’s beloved founding father on Saturday and Sunday too. Free.

Animal Mythology Weekend
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

Head to the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University this weekend for animal mythology weekend running Saturday January 17th through Monday January 19th. Activities and crafts will let kids explore cryptozoology and learn about the real animals that inspire mythical beats. $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for children.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday January 18th
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum of Art on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 18th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmerize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Cassandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1hr and 30mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

Martin Luther King Day: Readings from the Letter and Family Activities
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Families are invited to Eastern State Penitentiary this weekend for free events and programming commemorating Martin Luther King Jr and his 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” with special readings from this historic letter as well as family activities with Art Sanctuary. Free.

Sharing the Heritage and Celebration of Service Day
Monday January 19th
11am – 5pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

Join the African American Museum in Philadelphia and Citizens Bank Foundation for a free celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday January 19th from 11am – 5pm. Kids of all ages can participate in music, face paint, a scavenger hunt, and other activities as well as service and learn about the legacy of Dr. King. Free.

When Ken Waldman, Alaska’s “Fiddling Poet,” comes to World Cafe Live’s Peanut Butter and Jams concert series  this Saturday, January 17, it will mark Waldman’s first ever area appearance doing one of his kids’ programs, and first metro Philly appearance in six years. The upcoming show this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am at the World Cafe stage will feature Ken Waldman, who’s been touring nationally since 1995 along with accompanist, Brian Vollmer, and other special guests.

Ken Waldman combines old-time Appalachian-style fiddling, poetry, and Alaska-set storytelling for a show uniquely his. What makes this Saturday’s World Cafe Live show extra-special is that Waldman is a Philadelphia native who grew up in Lafayette Hill in Montgomery County, and rarely returns to the region.

Brian Vollmer, Waldman’s primary accompanist for the Saturday show, is a stellar banjo player, fiddler, and guitarist. A scholar of American roots music, he’s studied with some of the finest musicians in the country.

A 29-year Alaska resident, Waldman has eight books, including the children’s book, D is for Dog Team, and nine CDs, including two for children. His live performance has been described by Austin Chronicle writer, Ric Williams, “Feels like a Ken Burns movie. . . . Always recommended.” More recently, Shepherd Express Weekly in Milwaukee termed Waldman, “A one-man Prairie Home Companion,” and The Denver Post has called Waldman’s mix of music and words, “Renegade Americana.” Angela Seals, programmer for the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh has compared Waldman to Mr. Fred Rogers, and wrote, “In a generation where so much entertainment for children is frenetic, loud, and overblown, he stands as a timeless reminder in the power of authenticity, words, and music to connect people of all ages.”

Waldman’s show appeals to anyone who enjoys traditional Appalachian-style fiddling, smart poetry, acclaimed storytelling, or Alaska.

And now one lucky phillyfun4kids reader will have a chance to win Ken Waldman’s two children’s CDs! Simply enter the rafflecopter form below for your chance to win! And don’t forget to check out Ken and Brian this Saturday January 17th at World Cafe Live too!

GIVEAWAY:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you go: 
Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Ken Waldman is happening this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am at World Cafe Live. World Cafe Live is located at 3025 Walnut Street in Philadelphia, PA. Tickets for the show are $10 for kids and adults. Doors open at 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Disclosure: Ken Waldman generously provided two copies of his two children’s CDs and a copy of his children’s book for my family to enjoy and for a giveaway for phillyfun4kids readers. As always, all opinions expressed about independent children’s music being a treasure for families and how cool it is to welcome back Philly natives are our own. 

The temps may make you want to hunker down and stay indoors but there is just too much fun to be had this weekend in Philly to hibernate! Bundle up the kiddos and head to one of these great family events happening in and around Philly this weekend.

Passport to Discovery: Canada, Let It Snow
Saturday January 10th – Sunday January 11th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Suite 100
Cherry Hill, NJ

Kids didn’t get enough snowy fun this week? Take them to the Garden State Discovery Museum on Saturday January 10th and Sunday January 11th to learn all about snowy animals and enjoy snow activities throughout the museum with a focus on our friends to the north in Canada. Admission $12.95 plus tax.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 9th through Sunday January 11th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 11th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

PECO Family Jams: Beaded Snowflakes
Sunday January 11th
12pm
Philadelphia Magic Gardens
1020 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

Snow is in the air as kids and families can makeir their own beaded snowflake creations at the PECO Family Jams series this Sunday January 11th at 12pm at the Philadelphia Magic gardens. After the art activity, take a family friendly tour at 1pm or 3pm. $7 adults, $3 kids ages 6-12, free for kids 5 and under.

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Sunday January 11th
1pm
100 N. Horticultural Dr.
Sakura Classroom Behind Horticultural Center
Philadelphia, PA

Learn about the arts of Japan together with the kids at this hands on workshop at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden on Sunday January 11th at 1pm. You will create sewn books using traditional Japanese rice papers. $25 per adult/child combo. $10 for each additional child.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmorize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Casandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1 hr and 30 mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.