KidsOutAndAbout's weekly e-newsletter |
|
|
|
Save the Date Fri, Mar 20: GCV&M Maple Sugar Festival starts Fri, Mar 20: Visit The Easter Bunny starts at Eastview Mall Fri, Mar 20-Sun, Mar 22: Dear Edwina JR at Stages (A Magical Journey Thru Stages)
Fri, Mar 20-Sun, Mar 22: KIDZ CITY SPRING/SUMMER SALE 2026 in Panorama Plaza, Penfield
Sat, Mar
21: Maple Sugaring Weekends start at Cumming Nature Center of RMSC Sat, Mar 21: Ferret Fest: Spring Craft & Play Day to support Furever Ferrets Sanctuary
Sat, Mar 21: Maple Weekend 2026 at Helmer Nature Center Sun, Mar 22: Cinderella's Children's Ball at Rochester City Ballet Sat, Mar 28: The Jungle Book at TYKEs Theatre Mon, Mar 30: Esports & Gaming Spring Break Camp 2026 at Great Lakes Gaming
Tue, Mar 31: Rochester Red Wings opening day at ESL Ballpark Tue, Mar 31: Rock Climbing Spring Vacation Program at Central Rock Gym Rochester Sat, Apr 4: 2026 Riedman Foundation Trout Derby in Powder Mills Park Fri/Sat, Apr 24 & 25, 2026: SPACE!: Reprise of RPO April 2024 Eclipse Concert at Eastman Theatre |
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
The first time I can remember having to take a public stand on anything was in eighth grade English. We were assigned an essay on a controversial topic and told we’d present our arguments to the class. When he handed back our papers, Mr. Schmidt added a twist: no reading. We’d speak from notes. I was horrified. After school, I tried to negotiate my way out of it. “This makes me
really uncomfortable,” I told him, hoping for mercy. He looked at me over his glasses. “That’s the whole point,” he said. “To get stuff done, you have to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Don’t worry, you’ll live.” Mr. Schmidt was right. I didn’t die. And more important, I learned something that stuck: Discomfort isn’t a stop sign, it’s just part of the road, and all roads are bumpy. That lesson shaped how I've raised my kids, too. Karate helped Madison
and Ella distinguish between effort and injury. Long car rides taught them to rely on their own imaginations. Theater nudged them to stand however close to the spotlight they could manage, even when they’d rather disappear. And summer camps—those muddy, unpredictable, gloriously imperfect experiences—gave them countless chances to try something new and realize I can do this without the stigma that can accompany failing in other contexts. Growth rarely happens inside the
comfort zone, which is why I’m such a believer in giving kids opportunities to stretch beyond what feels easy. Summer programs are perfect for this, so that's why during "summer camp search season" we focus on showcasing the wide variety of programs available in the Rochester area. Here's the link to our camp portal
page. These days, as we approach the 25th anniversary of KidsOutAndAbout.com in June, I see that same principle playing out: The technology has changed, the business climate has changed, but the equation hasn’t. Discomfort still shows up right before something meaningful. And I still hear Mr. Schmidt’s voice in my head: Don’t worry, you’ll live.
—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. Connect more. Do more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
|
|
|
Maple weekends 2026 are March 20-22 and March 27-29! Here is kidsoutandabout.com's list of maple events! Find maple sugaring and syrup demos, learn all about the science of tapping maple trees are great family activities in late winter in the northeast.
Here is our list of local maple syrup events.
|
|
|
|
|
Spring is in the air and school's out! Take out your calendar - you have a lot of scheduling to do to fit in all the incredible Spring Break camps taking place in our area. KidsOutAndAbout.com has a list of top spring break camp options for kids of all ages
and interests in and around the Rochester area.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gather family and friends for a sweet outdoor adventure at Genesee Country Village & Museum’s Maple Sugar Festival! The Festival takes place from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Friday - Sunday, March 20 - 22 & March 27 – 29. Now is the time to start planning for this fun event! You'll discover how maple sugaring has evolved while enjoying seasonal flavors, music, and demonstrations that bring the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season to life. Enjoy maple history, fresh pancakes and syrup, live music, handcrafted goods, hands-on activities, sweet and savory seasonal treats, storytelling, and more! ASL interpreters are available Saturday, March 28 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Buy your tickets online before Thursday at 5 p.m. and save $1 per ticket. Visit our website for more information: https://www.gcv.org/event/maple-sugar-festival/
|
|
|
|
Step into a world of positivity, laughter, and unforgettable music with Dear Edwina JR at A Magical Journey Thru Stages! This charming and high-energy musical follows Edwina and her friends as they put on a delightful talent show to prove she’s ready to be the next “Advice Lady.” Along the way, they share humorous, heartfelt, practical advice about friendship, confidence, and believing in yourself. Bursting with catchy songs, colorful characters, and nonstop fun, this show celebrates kindness, teamwork, and the power of young voices. An experience for the whole family, Dear Edwina JR is an uplifting production that will have you smiling, laughing, and singing long after the curtain falls.
|
|
|
|
Step into the spotlight with the Cobblestone Community Players for a spectacular showcase of Broadway classics and contemporary favorites! From the gravity-defying hits of Wicked and the revolutionary beats of Hamilton to the razzle-dazzle of Chicago, this vibrant production brings your favorite stories to life. Our talented local performers will take you on a journey through the full spectrum of musical theatre, featuring heartfelt ballads, bold character-driven moments, and powerhouse ensemble showstoppers from shows like Rent, Hairspray and other Broadway gems. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of musicals, come celebrate the passion and artistry of our community in an evening of pure theatrical magic.
|
|
|
|
March 20-22, 2026, Panorama Plaza in Penfield! Looking for great deals on kids' clothes, toys, and baby gear? Rochester's largest kids and teen consignment sale is back for Spring / Summer 2026! KIDz CITY is Rochester's LARGEST baby & kids consignment event every Spring and Fall. Your chance to buy &/or sell kids clothes, baby gear, toys, and more! Head to www.kidzcitysale.com for details.
|
|
|
|
Saturday, March 21: EVER WANTED TO PLAY WITH FERRETS?! Get ready for the CUTEST spring event of the season! This Saturday from 2pm-6pm at United Church of Christ, Klem Road in Webster. This isn’t just an event… it’s an EXPERIENCE, and it benefits the local animal rescue Furever Ferrets Sanctuary. Adults are $10, kids 12 and under are FREE. (Under age 2 not permitted to play in ferret area.) Pre-register today!
|
|
|
|
This March and April, Great Lakes Gaming will present a Spring Break Esports Camp for kids ages 8–13. Campers will take part in team-based gaming sessions that promote communication, leadership, and strategic thinking. They’ll also gain creative tech skills through beginner video editing, crafting highlight reels from their own recorded gameplay. Session 1: March 30 & 31. Session 2: April 1 & 2. Each session is $275. Info at https://www.glgaminglounges.com/camps-programs-winterbreak
|
|
|
|
FREE FUN! Looking for something fun and free to do over Spring break? Visit select CountryMax locations on Tuesday, March 31 or Thursday, April 2, 10am to 11:30am or 2pm to 3:30pm. Kids will meet the friendly small animals of CountryMax – ferrets, hamsters, gerbils, even snakes and lizards! It’s like a free trip to the zoo with fun facts and plenty of interaction. Then, each child will be able to complete two crafts – pipe cleaner flowers and a handprint bunny card. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Registration required. Not all animals available at all stores. Click here for available locations and registration: https://www.countrymax.com/spring-break/
|
|
|
|
Get ready to melt the winter blues at the Spring Fling KidsFest on Saturday, March 28th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Tim Hortons Iceplex transforms into Rochester’s ultimate indoor playground. Your family can enjoy a inflatable zone, face painting, interactive games, and over 20 local vendors. Admission even includes unlimited ice skating with free skate rentals—a $15 value! Whether your kids are soaring on slides or gliding across the rink, it’s the perfect way to kick off spring. Purchase your tickets in advance and save up 30% on admission. For tickets and full details, visit springflingrochester.com
|
|
|
|
Discover a joyful way to learn at Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts! As a tuition-free public charter school for grades K–6, we blend rigorous academics with daily creative expression. Whether your child is exploring the arts or cozying up with Remy, our beloved school therapy dog, they will grow with true confidence and a sense of belonging. Don’t miss your chance to join our vibrant school family! Reach out to Mrs. Moyo-White at moyowhite@renacad.org or (585) 225-4200 ext. 209 with any questions. Apply by April 1 for the 2026-2027 lottery at GoodSchoolsRoc.org or renacad.org.
|
|
|
|
Please mark your calendars for Saturday, April 4 and come experience one of Monroe County’s favorite community traditions! The Powder Mills Park Fish Hatchery’s Annual Fish Derby, hosted by The Riedman Foundation, is a fun, safe, and educational event that introduces kids and families to fishing, outdoor recreation, and environmental stewardship. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just casting your first line, this long-standing tradition offers a great opportunity to reel in some fun, test your skills, and compete for prizes. Ages 9+ pay just $5 to participate, and kids 8 and under are free!
|
|
|
|
GVCA is hosting four Summer Arts Camp for students located on the Livingston County Campus in Mount Morris. Each week is designed to inspire creativity and exploration: Kids Camp (gr 1 - 9) offers a vibrant mix of activities including painting, ceramics, dance, music, and more. Arts Around the World introduces students to traditions from different cultures, and Arts Imagination Lab encourages campers to experiment, invent, and bring their ideas to life. Theater and HS Art Camp (gr. 9 - 12) offer in depth exploration with expert teachers who are passionate about sharing their artistic skills.
|
|
|
|
Camp at RocVentures focuses on getting kids active and socializing through climbing, team building, and a variety of other engaging games and activities. Absolutely no climbing experience is required. Let us challenge your kids while encouraging teamwork and building confidence—all while having fun and making new friends! Camp info for this summer can be found at https://www.rocventuresclimbing.com/camps
|
|
|
|
USA Ninja Challenge Rochester is a youth fitness facility where kids train on exciting obstacle courses inspired by shows like American Ninja Warrior. Classes, camps, and birthday parties combine elements of gymnastics, climbing, track-and-field, and obstacle course racing to help kids build strength, balance, agility, and confidence in a fun, supportive environment. Programs are organized by age and skill level for children ages 2.5–17, with coached classes that progress from basic movement skills to advanced obstacle techniques. Ninja training also provides excellent cross-training for sports like gymnastics, wrestling, climbing, baseball, football, and soccer. Spring Break (Mar 30–Apr 3), and Juneteenth (Jun 19), with weeklong summer camps available too.
|
|
|
|
Looking for an exciting and enriching summer camp for your child? Martial Arts America’s Summer Karate Camps offer a safe, fun, and action-packed experience led by expert Black Belt instructors. Designed for ages 6–12, each week features a unique theme, exciting activities, games, crafts, obstacle courses, and daily karate classes—perfect for beginners and experienced kids alike! With locations in Brighton, Penfield, and Webster, plus early drop-off and late pickup options, we make summer easy for busy parents. No prior martial arts experience needed—just tons of fun, fitness, and confidence-building! Learn more and reserve a spot at www.Rochesterkarate.com.
|
|
|
|
Enter to win a family four-pack of tickets to A Bad Case of Stripes, performing at TYKEs theatre at the JCC! April 11–19, 2026: With infectious energy and a heartfelt message, A Bad Case of Stripes reminds audiences of all ages that embracing your true colors is the key to self-discovery and acceptance. Instructions in the details, drawing March 28.
|
|
|
|
The Odyssey – Homer’s Epic poem set in Mycenaean, Greece 1200 BCE with historical costumes. ORT’s script tells the story of Odysseus’ 10-year struggle to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Athena disguises Odysseus as The Stranger (an elderly man) who clashes for power with Penelope’s Suitors when Odysseus reveals he has returned home to regain his power as the lawful head of his family. Many bold characters: Odysseus, Penelope, Telemachus, Nurse, 4 Suitors, Odysseus’ 6 Crew with Athena’s guidance while encountering mythical creatures: Sirens, Polyphemus (the Cyclops), Circe, Calypso, People of Troy and Wolf Maiden.
|
|
|
|
Sunday afternoon Amerks game at BCA: Come cheer on the Rochester Americans as they hit the ice for another thrilling hockey matchup! With fast-paced action, fan giveaways, and an electric atmosphere, an Amerks game is the perfect way to make unforgettable memories with your kids. Don your red, white, and blue, grab some popcorn, and get ready to shout “Go Amerks!” Check out the full schedule and grab your tickets at https://amerks.com.
|
|
|
|
Step into the Magic of the Cinderella Ball! Join Rochester City Ballet for our Cinderella Ball, where young guests of all ages can step right into the fairytale world of Cinderella! Sunday March, 22nd 11:00 AM & 1:30 PM Rochester City Ballet Studios
|
|
|
|
|
|
What's more fun than an Easter Egg Hunt at Easter? Knowing WHERE they are, though, is key to actually GOING! Check out the scrolling box below for all of the Easter events and egg hunts in our area.
|
|
|
|
|
Summer Camps in Rochester: KidsOutAndAbout's Rochester-NY area 2026 summer camp guide for kids! Hundreds of local summer camps: day camps, overnight camps, sports, drama, music, theatre, arts & crafts, technology, robotics, horseback riding, preschool,
& more! Pick the dates you want to explore on our calendar and see what summer camps are available.
|
|
|
Have a wonderful weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
|
|
