April Happenings
Wow, are there a lot of events this April! This is a selective list of events from all over the greater Portland area which are free or low cost and have some educational or cultural value. I am gathering them from a lot of different sources, and mistakes can happen, so please doublecheck any event before attending. Enjoy!
Saturday, April 3, at the Ledding Library in Milwaukie at 2PM, bluegrass wonder band Lee Highway will perform. http://www.leehighway.net/
Also Saturday, April 3, at the Tigard Library, at 1:30PM, Professor Banjo will perform a wonderful kid's show. Highly recommended (and previously reviewed on this blog). http://www.squaredancepaul.com/
Tadpole Tales, a story followed by a guided nature walk, take place every Wednesday at 10AM. They are at a new location this month, this time at the Columbia Slough Water Quality Facility, 19595 NE Sandy, Portland. Here is their schedule of topics: Wed., April 7- Birds. Wed., April 14- Spring Changes. Wed., April 21- Pond Life Wed., April 28- Dirt, Worms, and Water Bugs. Preregistration is required by emailing intern@columbiaslough.org or calling 503-281-1132. The cost is $3 per child. http://www.columbiaslough.org/sloughschool/tadpoletales.htm
Wednesdays in April, 1:30-2:30 p.m. will be Symphony Storytime at the Holgate Library. "The Oregon Symphony is on the road for interactive, musical storytimes. An innovative partnership between the Oregon Symphony and the Multnomah County Library System brings music and literature together during library storytelling times for pre-schoolers and their parents. Storytimes feature musicians from the Oregon Symphony performing music that enhances and deepens the storytelling experience. Each storytime features one of the four families of musical instruments: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. A craft session where children make their own instruments out of common household items and an instrument petting zoo follow the storytimes. Children and their parents also receive a specially made bookmark with suggested reading and recommended CD's featuring the storytime instruments." Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. http://www.orsymphony.org/edu/storytimes.aspx
Rick Meyer's Old Time Music Show will be showing up again at a free library event this month. Saturday, April 10, at 11:00 a.m. at Lake Oswego Library. "Proving that American folk music is alive and well, Meyers treats his audience to a fun-filled presentation of folk music, songs, and historical narration. The show includes familiar folk instruments, such as the banjo, guitar, and autoharp. As a bonus, Meyers spices up the show with a variety of unusual instruments, such as the spoons, saw, nose whistle, washboard, and limberjack. Known for his versatility and talent as a folk musician, Meyers has performed across the U.S. and Canada, and he has appeared on television. In addition to his musical career, Meyers teaches American Folkdance, is a dance caller, and collects and writes children’s folk songs and dances." Previously reviewed on this blog.) http://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/calendar/ChildrensPrograms.htm http://www.rickmeyersmusic.com/
Tryon Creek State Park will be having their annual Trillium Festival April 10, 9:30-4 and April 11, 10-4. "Spring is near and we are ready to welcome it with our Annual Trillium Festival! Each year the Friends of Tryon Creek State Park and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department are thrilled to share the beauty of our awakening forest with visitors as they enjoy this wonderful community event. Visitors may enjoy a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children's crafts and activities, local craft and edibles vendors, live music performances and more at the only all-urban state park in Oregon! This exciting event supports the education and restoration programs of the Friends of Tryon Creek State Park, and is a great place to find all the native plants you'll need for your yard this Spring. Hope we'll see you there! New this year - Trillium Festival Shuttle Service! This year, the Friends will be able to shuttle visitors back and forth from the Riverdale High School parking lot with 15 seat passenger vans. Take advantage of this FREE service and spend more time at the festival and less time looking for parking." http://www.tryonfriends.org/trillium-festival.html
April 11-18 Washington County Libraries are having a major event, the "Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival". http://www.wccls.org/hearing_voices/2010 There will be 14 performances in 8 days. I'm going to list some highlights individually. Please note that some of their events are specifically for adults and look pretty cool (check their website).
Saturday, April 10 2:30-3:30PM at the Hillsboro Main Library will be the Reptile Man. He has a simply jaw dropping presentation with oodles of critters for your up close inspection. I ask you, what could be better? http://www.oregonreptileman.com/
Sunday, April 11, 2PM at the Central Library downtown, in the Collins Gallery, Trashcan Joe is performing. "Cap'n James Cook needed an outlet for all the old-time jazz and folk songs he'd learned over the years, so he rustled up some friends willing to take on this oddball assignment. A typical live show consists of these original tunes, classic standards from early jazz and blues, movie theme songs, and swing, all played with drive and finesse." Check out the instruments they use here: http://www.trashcanjoe.com/gear.php
Sunday April 11 at 2PM at the Beaverton City Library, and Monday April 12 at 7PM at the Forest Grove City Library, the Oregon Shadow Theatre will present "Thumbelina", If you have never seen a shadow puppet show, you are in for a treat! "Thumbelina is one of Danish storyteller Hans Christian Andersen's most delightful characters, a miniature girl born from a flower who has to find her own way in the world of nature. In this production, Thumbelina journeys to discover her home in the land of the flower fairies. She has adventures with frogs, flying beetles, a swallow, a mouse, and a mole in his underground home. While the play's plot follows Andersen's story, the script supports a comic subtext linking music of the 1960's and '70s to Thumbelina's desire to find her home in a land of flowers. The live music is performed on hammer dulcimer, electric guitar, and an assortment of percussion and sound effects devices." http://www.oregonshadowtheatre.com/
Monday, April 12th, at 12:00 the Portland Center for the Performing Arts will have their monthly, free, family performance in the lobby of the Antionette Hatfield Hall, at 1111 SW Broadway, Portland OR. This month they are featuring pianist Sally Harmon and guitarist Frank Gruner, playing popular tunes.
Willy Clafin will be making five appearances for the Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival. I will list the ones intended for children. (He does have an adult show and a storytelling workshop for ages 10-adult). I learned about Mr. Clafin from finding a CD of one of his performances at a library years ago. He's from New Hampsire and often tells stories related to that locale, but lives the Bay Area of California now. Jasper thinks he's hilarious. But since his CDs hint at all sorts of sight gags we are missing, I can't wait to see a live show! http://www.willyclaflin.com/
Wednesday April 14, 6:30PM at the West Slope Community Library -Willy Claflin presents The Uglified Ducky "Folk tales, tall tales and childhood misadventures. With special guest and Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner Maynard Moose."
Friday, April 16, 7PM at the Cedar Mill Community Library- "Willy Claflin presents Rapunzel and the Seven Dwarfs "Folk tales, tall tales, story-songs and rubber rats! Special guests Maynard Moose and Gorf the Frog, world-renowned flyswatter percussionist."
Saturday, April 17, 10:30AM at Sherwood Public Library, "Willy Claflin presents The Wolf Who Cried Sheep "Folk tales, tall tales and story-songs. Special guests Maynard Moose and Gorf the Frog."
Also Saturday, April 17, at 7PM at Tigard Public Library, "Storytelling Finale Concert Featuring Willy Claflin, Nuestro Canto and The Brody Theater"
Brody Theatre will also be performing for the Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival. They will be doing a show called "Tales of the Unprepared", in which up to four cast members will improvise stories based on audience suggestions. They will be performing this twice (and will also be appearing in the Finale Concert April 17.) Wednesday, April 14, 7:00 pm at the Hillsboro Main Library, and Thursday, April 15, 7:00 pm at the Banks Public Library.
Hood River Valley Blossom Festival 4/17/2010 to 4/18/2010 http://www.hoodriver.org "Celebrate the arrival of Spring in the Hood River Valley! Our 56th year! Over 15,000 acres of orchards explode into bloom - carpeting the entire Valley in pearly white and pink blossoms. The entire Valley welcomes you to join us in the celebrations, including the Blossom Quilt Show, the Blossom Craft Show, and much more! Stop by the Hood River County Visitors Center at 720 E. Port Marina Drive (Exit #64) for your map and brochure -- or just ask the volunteers stationed at Exits #62 and #64! For details, call 1-800-366-3530." I called them to ask what else is going on, and they said that farms all along the "Fruit Loop" will be open for the public to enjoy the dazzling blossoms. A map of the Fruit Loop can be downloaded at http://www.hoodriverfruitloop.com/things/locations.html
Sunday, April 18 at 10AM is Tryon Creek's Kids In Nature program and the topic this month is "Seeds to Flowers". Preregistration is required, which can be done here and the cost is $10. These are excellent programs with a very wide age range appeal. I love these because not only do Jasper and I both really learn a lot every time, but Stephanie Wagner, their Director of Education who presents each of these, is simply an amazing teacher. I'm always taking note of the way she can take seemingly any subject and make it fascinating, add more hands-on learning opportunities than I would ever have imagined, and illustrate often complex concepts in a simple way even young children can grasp. I don't consider $10 for an hour and a half program to be low cost, but I really love these.
Thursday, April 22, Clark College in Vancouver will have a special, free Cherry Blossom Festival and celebration of Japanese Culture 1:30-4PM, with music, performances, and demonstrations, and a chance to enjoy their 100 cherry trees in full bloom. http://www.clark.edu/news_events/NewsReleases2010/Sakura2010NR.php
Friday, April 23- Sunday April 25, McMenamins in Forest Grove is hosting a Reniassance Faire. "Step back in time for a day of revels at the Faire In The Grove! McMenamins Grand Lodge and the Society for Creative Anachronism invite you to experience the Middle Ages and the Renaissance! You will be transported back to Fairegrove, a medieval village. Enjoy armored combat, rapier, dance, music, story telling, merchants, merchants, merchants, juggling, food and textile demos, book binding, leather working, arrow making and more! Times: Friday, 3 p.m. ‘til dusk, Saturday, 11 a.m. ‘til dusk, Sunday, 11 a.m. ‘til 3 p.m. http://www.mcmenamins.com/events/75908-Faire-in-the-Grove-Day-One
Saturday, April 24, "Mhembero" Zimbabwean marimba bands from 15 local schools will play a free concert 10AM- 4:30PM, with a special guest appearance from the Maru a Pula Band all the way from Botswana, at the Catlin Gabel School Theatre, 8825 SW Barnes Rd, 503-233-4372.
"Be a friend to the environment by attending Sherwood Green Day, set for 1-5 p.m. Saturday April 24 in Old Town Sherwood, 22560 SW Pine Street. There will be environmental movies, organic clothing, recyclable arts and crafts, music, a cycling zone, an animal trivia show, a scavenger hunt and more. The price of admission? Your recyclables."
Sunday, April 25, 1:30 – 3 p.m. at the Tigard Library Community Room, there will be a Legos Party for Ages 5 and up. "We’ll bring the LEGO®s…you bring your imagination! Kids and their grownups, come enter the creative construction zone."
Tuesday April 27, at 6:30pm the West Linn Public Library will host Dragon Theatre Puppets. "Home Grown Heroes" -- A band of superheroes vs. the villainous "Bad Idea". This is definitely worth a drive. Not only does this guy tell a rip roaring tale, he ends his shows with a question and answer session where he tells the kids everything they want to know about how he makes the puppets and their sets from scratch and creates all the character's voices. If there's any chance your child could be interested in puppetry or live theatre, or just likes to make things, they will find it inspirational. (Previously reviewed on this blog.) http://dragontheaterpuppets.com/default.htm
The Oregon Ag Fest will be held Saturday April 24 8:30 am - 5 pm, and Sunday April 25 10 am - 5 pm at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem, OR. Ages 12 and Under FREE Adults $7.50, Parking: Free "Always the last weekend in April, Oregon Ag Fest is an activity-filled festival where kids (and grown ups too!) can touch, taste and experience life on the farm. Agriculture affects us all, though many of us don’t know much more than where to buy the products we need. At Ag Fest, learn where our food and fiber comes from, how livestock is raised, the importance of forests for our ecology and survival, plus much more. Plant a seedling, ride a pony, watch chicks hatch, pet a rabbit, dig for potatoes and much more. Over 17,000 people attend Ag Fest each year to learn about Oregon’s largest industry. Come join us!" If you went to the OHEN convention, you many have received a free admission "educator pass" in your vendor packet. http://www.oragfest.com/
Saturday, April 24 from dusk to 11:30PM at Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park is a Star Party. "From beginners to experts of all ages, here's your opportunity to view the stars and other celestial objects up close and personal through telescopes. Viewing highlights may include planets, deep sky objects, and more. Sometimes we can even view the International Space Station passing overhead. There is no formal registration for the event itself, just show up and enjoy the evening. You don't even need a telescope to participate; other members are enthusiastic to share their views. This is a good opportunity for beginners to get acquainted. Come and observe your favorite objects and spend a wonderful evening with friends, and friends you haven't met yet." If you are planning to go, be sure to call 503-797-4610 #2 after 3PM on the day of the Star Party to make sure they've determined that the skies are clear enough for this event to happen. http://www.rca-omsi.org/
Sunday, April 25 2-4PM Tryon Creek will be hosting "Celebrate the Earth" "Bring the whole family to learn more about bobcats through arts and crafts, games, stories and more. Come dressed as your favorite animal for an afternoon parade. Hear the winners of our Tall Tale Contest tell their stories about “How Bobcats Tail Was Bobbed”. Refreshments will be served. Free event, no pre-registration necessary." http://www.tryonfriends.org/programs/family-events-and-activities/icalrepeat.detail/2010/04/25/104/77/NjFiMjA3OTRjMDVmZTExNDU3ZWJlN2RmYTdkNjQ1ZDA=/celebrate-the-earth.html
Thu., April 29, 2-5 p.m. the Northwest Library will be hosting Truck Town Party. "Calling all truckers for the second annual Truck Town Storytime and Party. Come pet big trucks, hear stories at 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m., and participate in crafts and activities. Celebrate the Month of the Young Child at the Con-way parking lot, N.W. 23rd Ave. and Savier St."
Mutlnomah County Libraries are having a special "Month of the Young Child" celebration in April. Most of the activites seem to be geared towards toddlers, so I'm not listing them here, but you can find out more at http://www.multcolib.org/events/youngchild.html
Saturday, April 3, at the Ledding Library in Milwaukie at 2PM, bluegrass wonder band Lee Highway will perform. http://www.leehighway.net/
Also Saturday, April 3, at the Tigard Library, at 1:30PM, Professor Banjo will perform a wonderful kid's show. Highly recommended (and previously reviewed on this blog). http://www.squaredancepaul.com/
Tadpole Tales, a story followed by a guided nature walk, take place every Wednesday at 10AM. They are at a new location this month, this time at the Columbia Slough Water Quality Facility, 19595 NE Sandy, Portland. Here is their schedule of topics: Wed., April 7- Birds. Wed., April 14- Spring Changes. Wed., April 21- Pond Life Wed., April 28- Dirt, Worms, and Water Bugs. Preregistration is required by emailing intern@columbiaslough.org or calling 503-281-1132. The cost is $3 per child. http://www.columbiaslough.org/sloughschool/tadpoletales.htm
Wednesdays in April, 1:30-2:30 p.m. will be Symphony Storytime at the Holgate Library. "The Oregon Symphony is on the road for interactive, musical storytimes. An innovative partnership between the Oregon Symphony and the Multnomah County Library System brings music and literature together during library storytelling times for pre-schoolers and their parents. Storytimes feature musicians from the Oregon Symphony performing music that enhances and deepens the storytelling experience. Each storytime features one of the four families of musical instruments: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. A craft session where children make their own instruments out of common household items and an instrument petting zoo follow the storytimes. Children and their parents also receive a specially made bookmark with suggested reading and recommended CD's featuring the storytime instruments." Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. http://www.orsymphony.org/edu/storytimes.aspx
Rick Meyer's Old Time Music Show will be showing up again at a free library event this month. Saturday, April 10, at 11:00 a.m. at Lake Oswego Library. "Proving that American folk music is alive and well, Meyers treats his audience to a fun-filled presentation of folk music, songs, and historical narration. The show includes familiar folk instruments, such as the banjo, guitar, and autoharp. As a bonus, Meyers spices up the show with a variety of unusual instruments, such as the spoons, saw, nose whistle, washboard, and limberjack. Known for his versatility and talent as a folk musician, Meyers has performed across the U.S. and Canada, and he has appeared on television. In addition to his musical career, Meyers teaches American Folkdance, is a dance caller, and collects and writes children’s folk songs and dances." Previously reviewed on this blog.) http://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/calendar/ChildrensPrograms.htm http://www.rickmeyersmusic.com/
Tryon Creek State Park will be having their annual Trillium Festival April 10, 9:30-4 and April 11, 10-4. "Spring is near and we are ready to welcome it with our Annual Trillium Festival! Each year the Friends of Tryon Creek State Park and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department are thrilled to share the beauty of our awakening forest with visitors as they enjoy this wonderful community event. Visitors may enjoy a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children's crafts and activities, local craft and edibles vendors, live music performances and more at the only all-urban state park in Oregon! This exciting event supports the education and restoration programs of the Friends of Tryon Creek State Park, and is a great place to find all the native plants you'll need for your yard this Spring. Hope we'll see you there! New this year - Trillium Festival Shuttle Service! This year, the Friends will be able to shuttle visitors back and forth from the Riverdale High School parking lot with 15 seat passenger vans. Take advantage of this FREE service and spend more time at the festival and less time looking for parking." http://www.tryonfriends.org/trillium-festival.html
April 11-18 Washington County Libraries are having a major event, the "Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival". http://www.wccls.org/hearing_voices/2010 There will be 14 performances in 8 days. I'm going to list some highlights individually. Please note that some of their events are specifically for adults and look pretty cool (check their website).
Saturday, April 10 2:30-3:30PM at the Hillsboro Main Library will be the Reptile Man. He has a simply jaw dropping presentation with oodles of critters for your up close inspection. I ask you, what could be better? http://www.oregonreptileman.com/
Sunday, April 11, 2PM at the Central Library downtown, in the Collins Gallery, Trashcan Joe is performing. "Cap'n James Cook needed an outlet for all the old-time jazz and folk songs he'd learned over the years, so he rustled up some friends willing to take on this oddball assignment. A typical live show consists of these original tunes, classic standards from early jazz and blues, movie theme songs, and swing, all played with drive and finesse." Check out the instruments they use here: http://www.trashcanjoe.com/gear.php
Sunday April 11 at 2PM at the Beaverton City Library, and Monday April 12 at 7PM at the Forest Grove City Library, the Oregon Shadow Theatre will present "Thumbelina", If you have never seen a shadow puppet show, you are in for a treat! "Thumbelina is one of Danish storyteller Hans Christian Andersen's most delightful characters, a miniature girl born from a flower who has to find her own way in the world of nature. In this production, Thumbelina journeys to discover her home in the land of the flower fairies. She has adventures with frogs, flying beetles, a swallow, a mouse, and a mole in his underground home. While the play's plot follows Andersen's story, the script supports a comic subtext linking music of the 1960's and '70s to Thumbelina's desire to find her home in a land of flowers. The live music is performed on hammer dulcimer, electric guitar, and an assortment of percussion and sound effects devices." http://www.oregonshadowtheatre.com/
Monday, April 12th, at 12:00 the Portland Center for the Performing Arts will have their monthly, free, family performance in the lobby of the Antionette Hatfield Hall, at 1111 SW Broadway, Portland OR. This month they are featuring pianist Sally Harmon and guitarist Frank Gruner, playing popular tunes.
Willy Clafin will be making five appearances for the Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival. I will list the ones intended for children. (He does have an adult show and a storytelling workshop for ages 10-adult). I learned about Mr. Clafin from finding a CD of one of his performances at a library years ago. He's from New Hampsire and often tells stories related to that locale, but lives the Bay Area of California now. Jasper thinks he's hilarious. But since his CDs hint at all sorts of sight gags we are missing, I can't wait to see a live show! http://www.willyclaflin.com/
Wednesday April 14, 6:30PM at the West Slope Community Library -Willy Claflin presents The Uglified Ducky "Folk tales, tall tales and childhood misadventures. With special guest and Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner Maynard Moose."
Friday, April 16, 7PM at the Cedar Mill Community Library- "Willy Claflin presents Rapunzel and the Seven Dwarfs "Folk tales, tall tales, story-songs and rubber rats! Special guests Maynard Moose and Gorf the Frog, world-renowned flyswatter percussionist."
Saturday, April 17, 10:30AM at Sherwood Public Library, "Willy Claflin presents The Wolf Who Cried Sheep "Folk tales, tall tales and story-songs. Special guests Maynard Moose and Gorf the Frog."
Also Saturday, April 17, at 7PM at Tigard Public Library, "Storytelling Finale Concert Featuring Willy Claflin, Nuestro Canto and The Brody Theater"
Brody Theatre will also be performing for the Hearing Voices Storytelling Festival. They will be doing a show called "Tales of the Unprepared", in which up to four cast members will improvise stories based on audience suggestions. They will be performing this twice (and will also be appearing in the Finale Concert April 17.) Wednesday, April 14, 7:00 pm at the Hillsboro Main Library, and Thursday, April 15, 7:00 pm at the Banks Public Library.
Hood River Valley Blossom Festival 4/17/2010 to 4/18/2010 http://www.hoodriver.org "Celebrate the arrival of Spring in the Hood River Valley! Our 56th year! Over 15,000 acres of orchards explode into bloom - carpeting the entire Valley in pearly white and pink blossoms. The entire Valley welcomes you to join us in the celebrations, including the Blossom Quilt Show, the Blossom Craft Show, and much more! Stop by the Hood River County Visitors Center at 720 E. Port Marina Drive (Exit #64) for your map and brochure -- or just ask the volunteers stationed at Exits #62 and #64! For details, call 1-800-366-3530." I called them to ask what else is going on, and they said that farms all along the "Fruit Loop" will be open for the public to enjoy the dazzling blossoms. A map of the Fruit Loop can be downloaded at http://www.hoodriverfruitloop.com/things/locations.html
Sunday, April 18 at 10AM is Tryon Creek's Kids In Nature program and the topic this month is "Seeds to Flowers". Preregistration is required, which can be done here and the cost is $10. These are excellent programs with a very wide age range appeal. I love these because not only do Jasper and I both really learn a lot every time, but Stephanie Wagner, their Director of Education who presents each of these, is simply an amazing teacher. I'm always taking note of the way she can take seemingly any subject and make it fascinating, add more hands-on learning opportunities than I would ever have imagined, and illustrate often complex concepts in a simple way even young children can grasp. I don't consider $10 for an hour and a half program to be low cost, but I really love these.
Thursday, April 22, Clark College in Vancouver will have a special, free Cherry Blossom Festival and celebration of Japanese Culture 1:30-4PM, with music, performances, and demonstrations, and a chance to enjoy their 100 cherry trees in full bloom. http://www.clark.edu/news_events/NewsReleases2010/Sakura2010NR.php
Friday, April 23- Sunday April 25, McMenamins in Forest Grove is hosting a Reniassance Faire. "Step back in time for a day of revels at the Faire In The Grove! McMenamins Grand Lodge and the Society for Creative Anachronism invite you to experience the Middle Ages and the Renaissance! You will be transported back to Fairegrove, a medieval village. Enjoy armored combat, rapier, dance, music, story telling, merchants, merchants, merchants, juggling, food and textile demos, book binding, leather working, arrow making and more! Times: Friday, 3 p.m. ‘til dusk, Saturday, 11 a.m. ‘til dusk, Sunday, 11 a.m. ‘til 3 p.m. http://www.mcmenamins.com/events/75908-Faire-in-the-Grove-Day-One
Saturday, April 24, "Mhembero" Zimbabwean marimba bands from 15 local schools will play a free concert 10AM- 4:30PM, with a special guest appearance from the Maru a Pula Band all the way from Botswana, at the Catlin Gabel School Theatre, 8825 SW Barnes Rd, 503-233-4372.
"Be a friend to the environment by attending Sherwood Green Day, set for 1-5 p.m. Saturday April 24 in Old Town Sherwood, 22560 SW Pine Street. There will be environmental movies, organic clothing, recyclable arts and crafts, music, a cycling zone, an animal trivia show, a scavenger hunt and more. The price of admission? Your recyclables."
Sunday, April 25, 1:30 – 3 p.m. at the Tigard Library Community Room, there will be a Legos Party for Ages 5 and up. "We’ll bring the LEGO®s…you bring your imagination! Kids and their grownups, come enter the creative construction zone."
Tuesday April 27, at 6:30pm the West Linn Public Library will host Dragon Theatre Puppets. "Home Grown Heroes" -- A band of superheroes vs. the villainous "Bad Idea". This is definitely worth a drive. Not only does this guy tell a rip roaring tale, he ends his shows with a question and answer session where he tells the kids everything they want to know about how he makes the puppets and their sets from scratch and creates all the character's voices. If there's any chance your child could be interested in puppetry or live theatre, or just likes to make things, they will find it inspirational. (Previously reviewed on this blog.) http://dragontheaterpuppets.com/default.htm
The Oregon Ag Fest will be held Saturday April 24 8:30 am - 5 pm, and Sunday April 25 10 am - 5 pm at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem, OR. Ages 12 and Under FREE Adults $7.50, Parking: Free "Always the last weekend in April, Oregon Ag Fest is an activity-filled festival where kids (and grown ups too!) can touch, taste and experience life on the farm. Agriculture affects us all, though many of us don’t know much more than where to buy the products we need. At Ag Fest, learn where our food and fiber comes from, how livestock is raised, the importance of forests for our ecology and survival, plus much more. Plant a seedling, ride a pony, watch chicks hatch, pet a rabbit, dig for potatoes and much more. Over 17,000 people attend Ag Fest each year to learn about Oregon’s largest industry. Come join us!" If you went to the OHEN convention, you many have received a free admission "educator pass" in your vendor packet. http://www.oragfest.com/
Saturday, April 24 from dusk to 11:30PM at Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park is a Star Party. "From beginners to experts of all ages, here's your opportunity to view the stars and other celestial objects up close and personal through telescopes. Viewing highlights may include planets, deep sky objects, and more. Sometimes we can even view the International Space Station passing overhead. There is no formal registration for the event itself, just show up and enjoy the evening. You don't even need a telescope to participate; other members are enthusiastic to share their views. This is a good opportunity for beginners to get acquainted. Come and observe your favorite objects and spend a wonderful evening with friends, and friends you haven't met yet." If you are planning to go, be sure to call 503-797-4610 #2 after 3PM on the day of the Star Party to make sure they've determined that the skies are clear enough for this event to happen. http://www.rca-omsi.org/
Sunday, April 25 2-4PM Tryon Creek will be hosting "Celebrate the Earth" "Bring the whole family to learn more about bobcats through arts and crafts, games, stories and more. Come dressed as your favorite animal for an afternoon parade. Hear the winners of our Tall Tale Contest tell their stories about “How Bobcats Tail Was Bobbed”. Refreshments will be served. Free event, no pre-registration necessary." http://www.tryonfriends.org/programs/family-events-and-activities/icalrepeat.detail/2010/04/25/104/77/NjFiMjA3OTRjMDVmZTExNDU3ZWJlN2RmYTdkNjQ1ZDA=/celebrate-the-earth.html
Thu., April 29, 2-5 p.m. the Northwest Library will be hosting Truck Town Party. "Calling all truckers for the second annual Truck Town Storytime and Party. Come pet big trucks, hear stories at 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m., and participate in crafts and activities. Celebrate the Month of the Young Child at the Con-way parking lot, N.W. 23rd Ave. and Savier St."
Mutlnomah County Libraries are having a special "Month of the Young Child" celebration in April. Most of the activites seem to be geared towards toddlers, so I'm not listing them here, but you can find out more at http://www.multcolib.org/events/youngchild.html
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