KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter |
|
|
|
Fri, Feb 27: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl in Concert at Austin Symphony
Sat, Feb 28: Lunar New Year Celebration Featuring Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team at Spicewood Springs Branch
Sat, Feb 28: STEM Girl Day at UT Austin at Texas Science & Natural History Museum
Sat, Mar 7: Texas Wildlife Day at Texas Science & Natural History Museum
Sat, Mar 14: St. Paddy's Day 5k and 1k Leprechaun Kids Run at Comal County Fair Grounds
Sat, Mar 21: Family History Day at French Legation Museum
Fri, Mar 27: Information Session - Magellan International School
Sat, Apr 11: ABC Zilker Park Kite Festival at Zilker
Metropolitan Park
Sat, Apr 18: 37th Annual Burton Cotton Gin Festival at Texas Cotton Gin Museum
Thu, Apr 23: Disney On Ice presents Jump In! - Cedar Park |
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
Next week, my husband and I are heading to a Valentine's Evening behind-the-scenes tour of the Darwin Martin House in Buffalo, New York. It’s the same Frank Lloyd Wright museum we’ve visited
several times, but this version is fancily dressed for the holiday: candlelight, champagne, treats, and a fresh perspective on something familiar. That’s the real magic of Valentine’s Day: It’s one of those perfectly made-up holidays, constructed out of paper hearts, glitter, and good intentions... and it manages magically to transform our spaces, our schedules, and our spirits. As publisher, I've had a 25-year front row seat to communities
around the country who turn nothing into something every February. This year, visitors can say "I Love Thee" in a Victorian mansion in Riverside, CA while a re-enactor in a top hat explains the romantic origin of the Hershey’s Kiss. Frying Pan Farm Park in Virginia will
help kids say "I Love MOO!" with farm animal puns. The Oregon Rail Heritage Center invites everyone on a Valentine's
Express Steam Train ride that is more light-hearted than steamy. And next Saturday, biologists at the California Academy of Sciences will hand out heart-shaped valentines to their African penguins—who will then present them to their mates to help line their nests. Not
all Valentine’s Day celebrations require you to get out and about, though; just muster some creativity and apply it to stuff you already have lying around the house. Cut hearts from red paper and tape them to the door. Dress in scarlet or rose or salmon pink. Light a candle at dinner while you're eating heart-shaped cheese, toast, bacon, or lasagna (here are 25 fun recipes from Food Network). When you and your kids dress up your world together, you’re not just celebrating love, you’re celebrating creativity. And they're learning the life skill of transforming ordinary stuff around them into something special. It only takes one step beyond the good intention to make it so. Love can be grand, indeed. But it doesn’t have to be grand to be great.
—Debra
Ross, publisher of KidsOutAndAbout.com, co-author of The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes
from Deb" section of our site. |
|
|
Camp Invention 2026 The all-new 2026 Camp Invention® program, Spark, is coming to curious kids in your community this summer! Rising K-6 campers will collaborate with friends to tackle hands-on,
open-ended challenges. They’ll team up with robotic capybaras, ride the waves of entrepreneurship, uncover the power of protecting their ideas and build a DIY space rocket! Each experience is designed to spark confidence, build persistence and create unforgettable summer memories. Visit invent.org/save/camp to secure your spot! Register using CIFUN25 by 3/31 to save $25 or CIFUN20 by 4/28 to save $20 when you register. Interest-free payment plans are available, making camp affordable for all families. |
|
|
|
Creator Camp is heading back to Austin for an incredible Summer 2026! As seen on Shark Tank, we bring world-class digital arts education to the ATX creative community. Our weekly camps cover everything from professional filmmaking and YouTube strategy to
game design and music production. We provide a space where kids can collaborate, innovate, and master the technology they use every day. With industry-standard equipment and a high-energy atmosphere, it’s the ultimate summer destination for aspiring creators. Join us in Austin this summer and help your child transform from a viewer into a visionary!
|
|
|
|
Celebrate friendship with a family swim night! Warm water, shared laughs, and fun splashes for families and friends to enjoy together!
|
|
|
|
Meet some awesome reptiles and raptors in this educational, assembly-style program with a local expert from WILDcenter of Texas!
This program is for ages 8 and up only. First come, first served.
Due to the live animals at this program, the entrance will be monitored to prevent the animals from startling or becoming confused. Attendees will not be permitted to enter 5 minutes after the start of the program.
|
|
|
|
This is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 Years of Jaw-Dropping "No Way!" moves, 100 Years of "Wow!" and 100 Years of Heart-Pounding Thrills! The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to your city with their most LEGENDARY TOUR EVER. From gravity-defying
dunks to game-changing tricks, experience the team that redefined basketball! This is history you can feel and a celebration of 100 years of over-the-top FUN with all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®. This is fan celebration from the moment you arrive with epic new pre-game magic, unforgettable post-game interactions, and the most fan-fueled experience in sports. This is your only chance to be part of The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour. Don't miss your chance to be a
part of the LEGACY.
|
|
|
|
Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends — Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo — have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity. Not content to leave
well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape — with the help of some prodigious penguins — to explore the world.
|
|
|
|
We’re opening our doors and inviting prospective families to experience the heart of Headwaters School. Whether you’re exploring our Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle, or High School programs, our Open Houses are a chance to connect with our vibrant
community, see our campuses in action, and discover how our Montessori foundation, IB Diploma Programme, and commitment to educational excellence prepare students to thrive.
During each event, you’ll meet school leaders, Guides, and current families; learn about our curriculum and signature programs; and connect with parents who can share their Headwaters experience.
|
|
|
|
From February 1st through February 28th, explore our Black History Month celebration. This display highlights 28 influential Black figures who have profoundly shaped society. Stroll along the trail and immerse yourself in their stories, contributions, and
legacies. It's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity, resilience, and progress.
Join us in celebrating Black History Month and enjoy an inspiring outdoor experience!
|
|
|
|
Get ready to welcome the Year of the Horse at the Library with Asian Family Support Services of Austin!
Join us in celebrating Lunar New Year with lantern riddles and crafts, concluding with a performance from Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team. Wear cheerful red clothes and don't miss out on this fun experience! Activities available while supplies last.
All ages welcome. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited. First come, first served.
|
|
|
|
JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH "Classroom Style!"
Everyone is invited to this family event celebrating African American contributions and inventions in the broad spectrum of US history.
|
|
|
|
Pop in for a pop-up! Art in Cahoots activities are free, led by Austin Artists, and designed specifically for children ages 2.5-5 years of age working cooperatively with an accompanying adult caregiver. This is a great way to collaborate creatively with
your child and connect with your community through the arts!
Free! Spots are limited! Register in advance to reserve space!
|
|
|
|
Jump into the fun! Kids are invited to stop by our Children’s Area for open Nintendo Switch gaming. Play popular titles, team up with friends, challenge other players, or try something new — it’s all about friendly competition and having a great time.
All skill levels are welcome. Drop in, grab a controller, and let the games begin!
|
|
|
|
Young tots and caregivers join us in making animal crafts, reading about our animal friends and exploring the zoo by stroller or little feet! 8 sessions Jan – May.
|
|
|
|
Every Friday, enjoy a movement and music storytime designed for little ones and their caregivers. Snuggle, bounce, and bond as we share rhymes, songs, and stories that support early language development and nurture a lifelong love of reading.
No Registration Required
|
|
|
- Family Storytime - Georgetown Public Library, 402 West 8th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626, Friday, February 6, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 9:30, 10:15. and 11 am
- Black History Month Story Walk - City of Lakeway, Lakeway, TX, Friday, February 6 to Sunday, February 8, all day
- Art in Cahoots at Dougherty Arts Center- February - Dougherty Arts
Center, Austin, TX 78704, Friday, February 6, 10-11 am
- Open Gaming- Nintendo switch
fun! - Dripping Springs Community Library, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, Friday, February 6, 4:30-5:30 pm
- Music/ Movement Storytime - Liberty Hill Public Library, Liberty Hill, TX, Friday, February 6, 10:15 - 11 am
- Texas America250 Reading Challenge - Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Austin, TX 78701, Friday,
February 6 to Sunday, February 8, all day
- Live Music on Lake Travis - Amber Lucille - Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark, Leander, TX, Friday, February 6, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Soccer Stars Free Demo Day - Ages 1-10 at Lakeline Park - Soccer Stars, 234 Escarpment Way, Cedar Park, TX, Saturday, February 7, 10:00AM
- Headwaters School Middle and High School Open House - Headwaters School, Austin, TX 78701, Saturday, February 7, see website
- Black History Month: Pamela Allen & Co Band - Austin Public
Library, Austin, TX 78704, Saturday, February 7, 2-3 pm
- Paper Jam: Valentine's Day
Cards - Austin Public Library, Austin, TX 78723, Saturday, February 7, 1-3 pm
- Black History is American History - San Marcos Public Library, San Marcos, TX, Saturday, February 7, 11 am- 2 pm
- Community Volunteer Event: Barton Creek Greenbelt - Austin, TX, Saturday, February 7, 9 am- 12 pm
- Lunar New Year Celebration - Cedar Park, TX, Saturday, February 7, 2-3 pm
- Read with Ruby the Therapy Dog! - Dripping Springs Community Library, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, Saturday, February 7, 10:30
am- 12 pm
- Palentine Pajamarama - Georgetown Public Library, 402 West 8th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626, Saturday, February 7, 6-7:30 pm
- Baby Time with Ms. Melissa - Pflugerville Library, Pflugerville, TX, Saturday, February 7, 10:30 am
- Family Storytime - Round Rock Public Library - RRPL, Round Rock, TX, Saturday, February 7, 11-11:30 am
- Teen Val-U-Time - Round Rock Public Library - RRPL, Round Rock, TX, Saturday, February 7, 2-3 pm
- Sunday Funday- Neill-Cochran House Museum - Neill-Cochran House Museum,
Austin, TX 78705, Sunday, February 8, 11 am- 2 pm
- Reptiles & Raptors
Assembly with WILDcenter of Texas - WILDcenter of Texas, Cedar Park, TX, Sunday, February 8, 4:30-5:30 pm
- Superbowl
Party on Lake Travis! - Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark, Leander, TX, Sunday, February 8, 5:30PM - 10PM
|
|
|
|
Parents have an abundance of choices when it comes to PreK and day care options in the Austin area! Use our Big List to help find the best one for your kiddos and check our events calendar to find Open Houses where you can meet teachers and tour the
schools.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Winter is here and fun options for families just keep getting better! Whether you stick with what you love or decide to try something new, KidsOutAndAbout has plenty of ideas. From Ice skating, kid-friendly museums, indoor play centers, and outdoor
activities to thinking ahead to next year's school options - we've got you covered.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Looking for a thrilling family-friendly adventure in the Austin area? Escape rooms are interactive, puzzle-packed experiences where you and your team work together to solve clues and complete your mission-all before time runs out! Whether you're escaping a
spooky cabin, cracking a high-stakes heist, or breaking a magical curse, escape rooms offer exciting, screen-free fun for kids, teens, and adults.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Planning a kids birthday party in the Austin area? Here are lots of ideas for where to have it! If there is a resource that we have missed, please email us to let us know, and we'll add it promptly.
|
|
|
Enjoy the weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
|
|
