calendar of february events

MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

A Adult
C Child
Y Youth
M Member
NM Non-Member
PP Per Person

Monday 1

Zumba. Berlin's 1870 Town Hall, 12 Woodward Ave., Berlin. 7 p.m. $8 drop-in fee. No experience necessary.

Mixed Media Art Class. (Ages 4 - 6). Bedford MA Recreation, Town Ctr. Building, 12 Mudge Way. 9 – 10 a.m. (Mondays through March 22). Design your own paper mache puppet heads! Projects will evolve by adding details, fabric, and decorations and will include a short puppet show. The class will explore the use of watercolor, tempra, and acrylic along with other art materials with a variety of projects to stimulate the imagination and develop fine motor skills all while having fun! All supplies provided. Call for feesd.978-275- 1392, bedfordrecreation.org

 February 19-21 It’s a monster truck invasion! Twelve-feet tall, 10,000-pound machines race and rip up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over, or smash through, at the DCU Center in Worcester. dcu.com Tails and Trails (Series program). Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, Lincoln. 1 – 2:30 p.m. (Mondays, Feb. 1- March 15). Explore winter with stories and adventures. Meet animals up close, wander the special areas of the farm in winter and visit with the barnyard sheep, goats, cows, pigs and chickens! All ages, with oldest child at least 2. $60 per child. Pre-registration required. 781- 259-2206, massaudubon/drumlin.org

Braids & Bows. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4:30 p.m. Learn the basics of braiding with a doll hair salon stylists who will share secrets for pulling off a variety of super styles for long or short hair, from fancy braids to ribbon twists. Receive a special goody bag with doll hair accessories and styling instructions. Reservations required. For girls 8 and up. $24 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

FREE Dance 'N Play Trial Class. Dance It Up! Dance Center, 36 North Main St., North Grafton. (Throughout the month of February). Designed for children ages 2 1/2 to 4. Classes are: DNP I (ages 2 1/2-3) Mondays, 11-12:30, Saturdays, 9-10:30; DNP II (ages 3-4) Mondays, 9:30-11, Saturdays, 9-10:30. 508- 839-1648, danceitup.com

Sing-along with Ed Morgan. Finagle a Bagel, Boston Post Rd., Wayland. 3 - 4 p.m. thechildrensgarden@comcast.net

FREE Studio Fee. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. 1 - 7 p.m. Enjoy a free studio on the first Monday of each month. $5 value. Prices range from $5 and up. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com

Tuesday 2

FOR PARENTS. Chocolate Truffle Science. Science Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 7 – 9:30 p.m. Join student physicists from the MIT Laboratory for Chocolate Science for a tasty learning adventure and learn the fine points of making truffles. Discover the six crystalline states of chocolate and the proper way to heat chocolate when you make ganache. Experiment with flavors from chipotle and curry, to orange and peppermint and make a variety of delicious truffles. http://chocolate.mit.edu/ Snow date: Wed., Feb., 3. $20 PP. Pre-register by calling 978-264-4200 x 20.

Groundhog Day. Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd.,  Lincoln. Special programs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., all free with paid admission to the farm. A $6, C (2-12) $4. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin

Wednesday 3

Middle School Poetry Jam. Harvest Cafe, 40 Washington St., Hudson. 6:30 p.m. First Wednesday of the month features local middle school poetry jam. Looking to feature student music talent, please email harvestcafe@verizon.net. And, EVERY Wednesday for odler teens and adults, OPEN MIKE w/Joe Ferreira 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Hear the best in local music. Local Saxophone player, Joe Ferreira hosts this eclectic evening of music and spoken word. Performers sign up after 7p.m., bring your appetite and stay the evening. No Cover, donations to the hosts are encouraged. 978-567-0948, Harvestcafeonline.com

PEM Pals (Formerly Book Buddies). Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. This fun, interactive program with books, movement, music, art and hands-on activities is designed specifically for preschoolers and their caregivers. Free with admission. A $15, C 16 and under, free. pem.org.

Waltham High School Dance Theatre Matinee Performance. Robinson Auditorium, 617 Lexington St., Waltham. 3:30 p.m. Dazzling dances featuring jazz, tap, hip hop, and broadway show dance. Call for fees: 781- 314-5440.

FREE FOR PARENTS Scents and Sensitivity: Garden Cosmetic Recipes for the Health of the Body, Mind and Spirit with Joanne Markarian. Holistic Moms Network- Worcester County Chapter, St. Luke’s Church Hall, 921 Pleasant St., Worcester. 7- 9 p.m. Discover how garden color and aromatherapy can be used to influence wellness, wellness choices and behaviors. Learn how to incorporate essential oils and natural cosmetics into a holistic lifestyle, see a demonstration of how to make a few natural products. DVD’s for purchase that cover this topic in more depth and include recipes on how to make your own products at home. 508-439-9826, holisticmomsnetwork.org

Thursday 4

February 16-18 School Vacation Fun! Join NRWA naturalists for Winter Explorers, three fun-filled days of nature-basd activities at the Nashua River Watershed Association in Groton. NashuaRiverWatershed.org Acton-Boxborough Parent Involvement Program Book Club: Keeping a Nature Journal. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 7 – 9 p.m. Join a book discussion and meet Clare Walker Leslie, author of Keeping a Nature Journal. Teens and adults welcome. Pre-registration required. Check for fees: 978-264-4200 x 20, discoverymuseums.org

Dinosaur Discoveries. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Come touch a real dinosaur fossil and pretend to be a paleontologist digging for dinosaur bones in our mock excavation site. Admission costs: discoverymuseums.org.

FREE Open House. St. Anna School, Pre-K - Grade 8, 213 Lancaster St., Leominster. 9:30 – 11 a.m. Observe classes in session. Accepting applications for the 2010-2011 school year. Full day, flex schedule Pre-K as well as K – 8 extended day programs are available. 978- 534-4770, stannaschool.org

FREE Seminar for Parents of Picky Eaters. First Connections, Reuben Hoar Library, 41 Shattuck St., Littleton. 7-8:30 p.m. Interactive workshop presented by licensed pediatric nutritionist, Joanne Casplar. How to get everyone to the table at the same time eating the same food! Learn what food battles are and are not worth the fight! Suggested donation $10. Register at 978-287-0221, firstconnections.org

Waltham High School Dance Theatre Performance. Robinson Auditorium, 617 Lexington St., Waltham. 7:30 p.m. $10 PP. 781-314-5440.

Friday 5

LEGO Building for Toddlers. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bring your imagination to build, stack, and sort using an enormous collection of DUPLOS. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Take Aparts Potluck. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. What makes things work? Gears, levers, magnets, and circuit boards are some of the components in telephones, typewriters, VCRs and other household items. Learn to recognize resistors and capacitors and find out what they do. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Aqua Kids Family Day. New England Aquarium, Boston. Friday mornings activities especially for families with young children. Throughout the morning, hear stories, create art projects and see Live Animal Presentations in the Curious George Discovery Corner, located on the first floor of the Aquarium. Enjoy an underwater adventure. Open to all Aquarium visitors, and no registration is required. Free with admission. A $20.95, C (3-11) $12.95, under 3, free. 617-973-5200, neaq.org.

Korean Hanbok. Boston Children’s Museum. 6 – 8 p.m. Learn about this Korean traditional dress. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426- 6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

School Readiness Friday Night. Boston Children’s Museum. 6 – 8 p.m. Practice Kindergarten readiness skills with your child. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1.

FREE Lowell's 10th Annual Winterfest Celebration. 375 Merrimack St., City Hall Plaza and at various indoor and outdoor locations throughout the downtown area. Fri., 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. (Also Sat., Feb., 6). Many new attractions at City Hall Plaza, including Friday evening’s ‘Lowla’s Dance Party’ and Saturday’s ‘Lowlapalooza’ which features an outdoor skating rink and family friendly interactive games, including a climbing wall. Both events feature “Lowla,” the ever-adorable teddy bear mascot of Lowell’s Winterfest. Also features popular events from years’ past, including the world’s first-ever National Human Dog Sled Competition, “Mittens and Museum Madness” activities for kids, the Glacier Gallery Artisans Market, the North Bowl Soup Competition, and “On the Lookout for Lowla” - a fun, family activity that encourages visitors to search for Lowla around downtown at various businesses. 5:30 p.m. on Saturday evening as a fireworks display takes flight high over the Tsongas Arena. Most events are free. 978-446- 7162, lowellwinterfest.org

FREE Super Bowl Story Hour. Barnes & Noble, Saugus. 6:30 p.m. Let’s get ready for the big game with stories by Tiki And Ronde Barber. Begin with My Brother’s Side. 781- 231-4711.

Waltham High School Dance Theatre Performance. Robinson Auditorium, 617 Lexington St., Waltham. 7:30 p.m. $10 PP. 781-314-5440.

Saturday 6

Weekends through February 21 It’s Winterfest at Fruitlands in Harvard: hot chocolate, bonfires, skating, sledding, snowshoeing, and more! Just $5 per carload with a food donation to Loaves & Fishes. fruitlands.org. Messy Masterpiece. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Finger painting: an all-time classic! Touch and experiment with color as your fingers squish and move through the paint. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Kids’ Music Series featuring Elizabeth Mitchell & Friends. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. 1 p.m. Familyfriendly concert in the auditorium. $6 at the door (CASH ONLY). Ticket price does not include Museum Admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, under 1, free. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

Ocean Detectives. New England Aquarium, Boston. 2 - 3:30 p.m. Children will work with parents and peers to unlock the secrets of the deep while developing their math, science, and literacy skills. Ages 5-7. C $30. Adults are included in the cost of each child since children must be accompanied. Price includes admission. 617-973-5206, neaq.org.

Roots and Shoots Morning. Boston Children’s Museum. 10 a.m. – Noon. Discover the connections that exist among all living things. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426- 6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Continues on weekends through Feb., 21) Make your own fun on this 200-acre wintery wonderland and catch snowy views of towering Tree Figures. Enjoy hot chocolate by the bonfire and snacks served by the skating rink. Enjoy the sled runs and groomed trails. Bring your ice skates, sleds, x-country skis and snowshoes. Visit fruitlands.org calendar page for weather updates. Admission: $5 per carload for non-members and a non-perishable donation to Loaves & Fishes. Event is cancelled in severe weather. 978-456-3924. fruitlands.org.

Morning Chores- Weekend Program! Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 8 – 10 a.m. Be a farmer for the morning. Feed the sheep breakfast, muck out a stall and check in the chicken house for early morning eggs. Then prepare and eat a hearty breakfast, with some farm products. Age 5+. $21 PP. Preregistration required. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin

FREE Lowell's 10th Annual Winterfest Celebration. 375 Merrimack St., City Hall Plaza and at various indoor and outdoor locations throughout the downtown area. See Feb. 5 listing for details.

FREE Fun Photo-Clips Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4 – 6 p.m. American Girl® magazine is full of great games, crafts, and advice just for girls! Now girls have an opportunity to create their own craft inspired by the magazine. In this workshop, girls can snazz up snapshots by making their own clothespin picture holders. For girls ages 8 and up. 877- 247-5223, americangirl.com

Weekend Art. Peabody Essex Museum, Art & Nature Center, 161 Essex St, East India Square, Salem. 1 – 3 p.m. Museum educators lead hands-on art projects inspired by the exhibitions. Also Feb., 7. A $15, children 16 and under, free. pem.org

Advanced Musical Theatre Technique: A Weekend Dance Intensive. Watertown Children's Theatre, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. (Also Feb., 7). Students will explore different elements of dance, learn new choreography and original Broadway choreography from the musical "Pippin," and participate in a Q & A session about auditioning for professional Manhattan musical theater. The workshop is taught by WCT choregrapher, and New York-based professional actress/dancer, Avi Asuleen. Pre-registration is required. Open to grades 6 – 12. Call for fees: 617-926-2787, watertownchildrenstheatre.org

Kids Night Out. (ok, Parents Night Out!) Wayland H.S. Field House, Old Ct. Path, Wayland. 6 – 9:30 p.m. (check in starts at 5:45 p.m. $20-first child, $5 each additional child with a $30 family limit) Any checks should be made out to Wayland High School. Age 4 - grade 7. This program is available for any child from any town!! Supervision will be provided by the Wayland High School Girls and Boys Basketball Programs and the Class of 2012. Cost includes a drink and a slice of pizza from Wayland House of Pizza or hotdog. Activities include arts and crafts, board games and organized games. A concession stand will be available for snacks and drinks. Each child must have a signed parent permission form in order to participate in the evening. Please bring your payment and permission form to the event. The permission form will cover your child for the entire school year. e-mail Kathleen Thompson at Kathleen_Thompson@wayland.k12.ma.us.

FREE 2010 Worcester Summer Camp & Activities Fair. 144 Granite St., Worcester. 11:30 a.m. -2 p.m. Features a diverse group of summer camp and recreational resources that serve Worcester residents and their children ages 3-17. The presenting programs have been selected via criteria such as reputation, available resources, location, cost and that they have all been a resource for Worcester area children for a number of years. Specialties include general recreation, computer/technology, art, general sports, sports-specific (soccer, golf, adventure, etc.), community service, premium day camp, etc. Academic components will also be available that cover math, sciences and language. 978-929- 9997, info@summercampfairmass.com.

Sunday 7

Mondays Through March 22 Design your own paper mache puppet heads! Bedford MA Recreation is holding a mixed media art class for children ages 4-6. bedfordrecreation.org. Face Painting Fun. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Be a butterfly, a tiger, or anything else you can imagine as we decorate your face. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Curious George™: Let’s Get Curious Exhibit Opens. Boston Children’s Museum.Opening activities. Meet Curious George. Weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri., 9- a.m. – 9 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays, 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

Dances from around the World. The New England Folk Festival Association and the Folk Arts Center of New England. Concord Scout House, 74 Walden St., Concord. 2 – 4 p.m. Learn traditional dances from around the world with Marcie Van Cleave and Dana Sussman. All dances taught and appropriate for age 5 and up. Live music, refreshments served. $5pp, $25 family max. 781-662-7475, facone.org

Family Arts Day. The Children's Museum in Easton. 9 Sullivan Ave., Easton. 1 - 3 p.m. Spend the afternoon exploring student art exhibitions, which showcase their amazing talent in an array of mediums. Enjoy the entertainment of their performance talents as well! This is a Family event…all ages are welcome to sample some refreshments, make new friends, and celebrate the arts! Free with Museum admission, no reservation required. $6 PP. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

Animal Footprints and Signs. Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. 1 - 2:30 p.m. Ever wonder what animal made those tracks? Wonder who is traveling on the trails or through your yard? Come find out how to solve the mystery! A $12, C $8. 508-655-2296, massaudubon.org/broadmoor

FREE Kit’s Catchall Box Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 1 – 3 p.m. In 1934, Kit would have loved to have a little box to “catch” all of her treasures! In this class, you’ll learn how to design and decorate your own using sturdy paper. For girls ages 8 and up. 877- 247-5223, americangirl.com

FREE 8th Annual Summer Opportunities Camp Fair. Loring Elementary School, Lincoln Sudbury Regional High School, 390 Lincoln Rd., Sudbury. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 80+ camps offering information on day, overnight and travel programs for students in grades K-12. Parents and students can meet and speak with representatives from these camps offering unique programs including travel, community service, arts, sports, academic enrichment, and traditional camp options. sudburycampfair.org.

Advanced Musical Theatre Technique: A Weekend Dance Intensive. Watertown Children's Theatre, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. See February 6 listing for details.

Monday 8

FREE Therapeutic Essential Oils For the Whole Family! Holistic Moms Network Boston/North Shore Chapter, 1005 Osgood St., N. Andover at Caron Family Chiropractic (Office in rear of building behind Bella Vita). 7 p.m. An informative evening led by Pamela Seyler, N.H.D of Andover Natural Health Care (www.AndoverNHC.com) and learn how to enjoy and use medicinal essential oils for many ailments and injuries. holisticmomsnetwork@gmail.com

Magic Loop Sock Knitting. The Fiber Loft, 9 Massachusetts Ave (Route 111), Harvard. 7 -9 p.m. Two classes. (Also Mon., evening Feb., 22). $40 PP. 978-456-8669, TheFiberLoft.com

FREE Storytime! Leominster Library. 10 – 10:30 a.m. Stories, music, and movement for children of all ages. All ages. No registration required. leominsterlibrary.org.

FREE for moms. Greening Your Home. MetroWest Boston Mothers & More, Whitney Place, 3 Vision Dr., Natick (Rt.9W). 7:30 p.m. Learn tips and tricks that will having you putting away the Clorox and picking up more earth (and kid) friendly products. Save your coffee grinds and find out what they are good for! Visitors welcome! metrowestmothersandmore.org

Drop-in Yoga Classes. Peabody Essex Museum, Phillips Library Auditorium, 161 Essesx St., East India Square, Salem. 5 – 6 p.m. Instructor Susan Himml leads these alllevel Hatha yoga classes. $12 PP. For information, call 978-745-9500, x 3043, pem.org.

FREE StrollerFit® classes. StrollerFit® Metrowest, Our Lady Academy, 920 Trapelo Rd., Waltham. Join StrollerFit® Metrowest for "Heart Healthy Week" Feb. 8th through 13th. Free classes all week for new participants! Prizes for wearing red, raffles, and more! Don't miss out. 617-365-4115, strollerfit.com/boston/metrowest

Superbowl Party. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. Noon to 7 p.m. Superbowl Sunday fun. Stop by and paint something with your favorite team colors and enjoy some snacks before the Big Game. Prices range from $5 and up. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com

Tuesday 9

Geodesic Engineering. Science Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Discover how math, geometry, and engineering come together as you construct a 6-foot geodesic dome. Learn about Buckminster Fuller, and geodesic structures from houses to buckyballs, diatoms, and viruses! Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Tu b'Shevat. Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Celebrate the Jewish New Year of Trees. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426- 6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Winter Scavenger Hunt. Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 3:30-5 p.m. Keep your eyes and ears open for the smaller signs of winter! Explore the farm and search for tracks. Don’t forget a flashlight to explore the cracks and corners of barns. Pre-registration required. Age 4 +. $10 PP. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin

FREE La Leche League Meeting. Blessed Sacrament Church: Phelan Ctr., 551 Pleasant St., Worcester. 9:30- 11:30 a.m. 508-829- 8957, llleus.org/web/WorcesterMA.html

Wednesday 10

Marine Mammals of the Arctic Live Webcast. Immersion Learning, Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT. Viewers will have the opportunity to interact directly with scientists and trainers who work with marine mammals to better understand their behaviors and physiology, as well as the impact of humans and climate change on these animals. Viewers will get a firsthand look at polar bear research, seal rescue, and rehabilitation efforts at the aquarium, satellite tagging and population surveys of ringed seals and beluga research that involves a unique collaboration between the people of Point Lay, Alaska, and researchers, including one based at Mystic Aquarium. Visit mysticaquarium.org for a schedule of Webcast times. Free with aquarium admission. A$26, C $19 (ages 3 to 17), 2 and under, free. 860-572-5955, mysticaquarium.org

Story Time at The Clayground. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. sessions. Come and read a story and paint a project together. Beat the winter blues and come to the studio for some fun. (Every Wednesday and Thursday). C $6. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com

Diva Night at The Clayground. 65 James St., Worcester. 6 - 9 p.m. Ladies Only! Grab your gal pals and enjoy a night filled with painting and laughter. Snacks served BYOB allowed. Cost varies. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com

Thursday 11

Music and Movement with Ms. Karina. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Explore sound through singing and playing. Ms. Karina has 10+ years of certified musical teaching experience. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org.

Let’s Have Lunch -Yumm! Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. What’s cooking? Pull up your sleeves and make some soup from delicious Drumlin Farm veggies. Also make some bread. Age 3 +. $21 PP. Preregistration required. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin.

Bitty Fun Day. American Girl. Natick Collection. 10:30 a.m. Spend some time with your little sweetie! Moms and preschoolers can color, celebrate, and learn Bitty Bunch games and rhymes before enjoying finger foods little girls will love. Reservations required. For girls 3 and up. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

Friday 12

Valentines: Fun with Scissors and Glue. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Hearts a-flutter! Make someone you love a special valentine as you practice your cutting skills. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Valentines: Simply Engineered. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Discover how simple paper cuts and folds can transform ordinary cards into impressive pop-up keepsakes! Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

GoKids! Fit Friday! Boston Children’s Museum. Try out a new sport or activity! 6 – 7 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426- 6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Valentine Sweets. The Children's Museum in Easton, 9 Sullivan Ave. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Devote the day to sweet things by creating special Valentine’s Day themed craft and yummy chocolate lollipops for yourself or for your valentine. There is no need to register for this Valentine Sweets program, just drop on by and enjoy the year's sweetest holiday with us and your loved ones! Free with admission. $6 PP. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org

Hog Wild Over You! Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 3:30 – 5 p.m. Explore the folklore of scented herbs and make sweet smelling valentine sachets. Make a special valentines treat to deliver to the pigs. Age 3+. Preregistration required. $12 PP. 781-259- 2206, mass Audubon.org/drumlin

FREE Pocket Valentine Card Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4 – 6 p.m. Your sweet girl can give her Valentine something special: a handmade card featuring her own design! She can learn how to craft her own card with a pocket that holds heart stickers. For girls ages 8 and up. americangirl.com

Saturday 13

LEGO Zone. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. All Day. (Feb., 13 – 21). Join Lego lovers of all ages in community building projects and Lego design challenges. Design racecars, spaceships, and more. Add your creation to our community board for display at the Museum. Lego donations are welcome! Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Color the World. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. All Day. (Feb., 13 – 21). Create art for public display in the Rainbow Room at the Children’s Discovery Museum! Each day, adults and children collaborate on a canvas using shades of the designated color(s). Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Fun at the Boston Children’s Museum. Kamishibai - Japanese Storytelling 11 a.m., Noon and 1 p.m. “Buying Mittens,” the story of a mother fox and her child. Great Backyard Bird Count 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.Take part in the nationwide bird count. Helping Hands Monkeys. 1 p.m. Meet a real monkey trained to help people with disabilities. Kitchen Science: Air Painting 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Explore the behavior of water. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

My Funny Valentine. Fuller Craft Museum, Brockton. 10 a. m. – Noon. A workshop in mixed media and metals. Use a variety of techniques to create unique valentines. No materials or experience with metals needed! Advance registration is strongly recommended, space is limited. fullercraft.org.

FREE Valentine's Day Craft Event. Atrium Mall Children's PlaySpace, Atrium Mall, Chestnut Hill. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Children will have the opportunity to participate in a free Valentine’s Day arts and crafts session. 617- 527-1400, atrium-mall.com

7th Annual American Heritage Chocolate Celebration. Historic Deerfield, 80 Old Main St. There is no better way than to enjoy a funfilled day with sweet chocolate aromas, captivating lectures, and most importantchocolate treats! An exploration of everything chocolate including a sumptuous array of gourmet chocolate desserts, foods, and beverages prepared by Champney's Restaurant & Tavern at the Deerfield Inn. Day also includes food demonstrations and historic recreations. Taste American Heritage Chocolate®, and create your own Valentine using decorative papers. Special Event Admission: A $12, C (6- 17) $5, under 6,free. 413-775-7214, historicdeerfield. org.

Mommy and Me Valentine Tea with Sleeping Beauty. Miss Emma's Tea, SpringHill Suites Marriott, 31 Andrews Parkway, Devens Common Ctr., Devens. Noon - 1:30 p.m. Little girls and their Moms, Dads, or grandparents will delight in this very special Valentine Tea enjoying delicious tea sandwiches, fresh fruit, valentine cookies, princess cakes and "Tea." Special guest appearance, Singing Princess Character Sleeping Beauty will sing, play musical games and dance with the children. Picture opportunities, valentine favors and more! $45/adult plus one child. $10/additional child. 978 537-6945, missemmastea.com/events

WhoDunIt February Vacation Week. The Childrens Museum in Easton, 9 Sullivan Ave., Easton. Feb., 13 – 21. Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sat. and Sun., Noon – 5 p.m. Attention all Detectives… your assignment is to investigate a crime in the Museum during February Vacation Week. As detectives you will help Ruff Ruffman clear his good name by solving the “Case of the Anti-Valentine.” You will search the museum for clues while participating in different activities about how to match fingerprints, match shoeprints, decode DNA, as well as collecting evidence to find the culprit out of a line up of suspects. A member of the State Police K-9 Unit will be involved in the investigation, as well as The Beagle Brigade. Free with admission. $5 PP. 508-230- 3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org

FREE Be Our Valentine. Hands On 4 Kidz, 44 Main St., Gardner. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Create valentines from paper and decorate cookies (FREE). Other themed activities are available at 10% off and Creation Station is $2.50 for the day! This event is fun for all ages. Chair City Artisans Gallery will also be open, with many deals for your sweetheart! 978-632-2815, handson4kidz.com

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

Fancy Nancy Soirée. Lunenburg Teen Center, 15 Memorial Dr., Lunenburg. 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Girls in Kindergarten and first grade will learn about manners the “Fancy Nancy” way as they dress in fancy clothes, have a fancy snack, and learn why using our best manners is oh-so-fancy! Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts and Art to Gogh. Sign up by calling Lynn at 1- 800-462-9100 x3604 or email, lchaput@gscwm.org.

FREE Merrimack River Eagle Festival. Mass Audubon's Joppa Flats Education Center and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, One Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport and Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Six Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, Newburyport City Hall, 60 Pleasant Street, Newburyport. 9 a.m. – 4 -p.m. Come to Newburyport for a full day of activities celebrating the return oF Bald Eagles! Visit eagle hot spots along the Merrimack River (Maps will be available the day of the tour at all festival headquarter sites). All ages welcome. Eagle tours, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (tours start every half hour and take 1 ½ hours to complete. Reservations required. Please call 978-462-9998 to reserve seats. All Eagle Tours depart promptly from the Newburyport Chamber of Commerce at 38R Merrimac Street. For adults and children age 6 and over). Eagle Demonstration, 10 – 11 a.m. and 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Tom Ricardi of the Massachusetts Bird of Prey Rehabilitation Facility presents two educational programs for all ages at Newburyport’s City Hall featuring a variety of raptors. First come, first served. At the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters: Special feature: owls from Mass Audubon’s Blue Hills Trailside Museum (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.).At Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats Education Center: Special feature: hawks from Mass Audubon’s Blue Hills Trailside Museum (11 a.m. -3 p.m.). 978-462-9998, massaudubon.org/eaglefestival.

School Vacation Week at Old Sturbridge Village. Feb. 13 – 21. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sleigh rides, ice skating (bring your skates) and sledding (on 1830s-style reproduction sleds). Indoor activities include puppet shows, magic shows, hearthside cooking, dipping candles, and hands-on crafts. A$20, C (3-17) $7,C under 3 free. osv.org or 800-SEE-1830.

PARENT DATE NIGHT Bella’s Ball. The Seventh Annual Isabella Rose Capaldi Why Me Valentine Ball. The Manor, West Boylston. Cocktail hour: 6:30 p.m. Dinner and dancing to follow. Features the music of Steve Anthony & Persuasion. $50 pp/tax deductible donation. Advance ticket sales only: 508-832-9934.

Watching Wildlife. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 9:30 am-12:30 p.m. Girls in 2nd and 3rd grade will take a close look at some of the animals that live in their own neighborhoods as they participate in this program. Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $8 per girl. Sign up by calling Lynn at 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

Kids' Vacation Week Programs at the Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Call for times. (Through Feb., 21). Shield Workshops: Discover the history of heraldry and then create your own unique heraldic shield. Learn what the “charges” or symbols that decorate the shields stand for and what colors represent courage, generosity, loyalty, or hope. Daily CastleKids Storytimes: From damsels in distress to mighty dragons, share tales of adventure, from wellknown fairy tales to modern picture books in the setting of our medieval Great Hall, featuring The Paper Bag Princess, George and the Little Knight, The Princess Knight, and more. Handson History: Come learn about Arms and Armor up close! Try on a gauntlet, handle some mail armor, or pick up a helmet and experience what the “knights and warriors of old” experienced. Live Arms and Armor Show: Why armor? Who wore it, who made it, and why are there so many different types? In this interactive program, discover the history of armor, from its evolution from mail to plate armor to its disappearance (and modern reappearance on the battlefield). Volunteers from the audience will have opportunities to help with the demonstration. Free with admission. A $10, C (4-16) $7, under 3, fee. 508-853-6015, higgins.org.

Sunday 14

Fireside Stories. Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord. 1 – 3 p.m. Come in from the cold and nestle around the crackling fireside in the Concord Museum’s colonial kitchen for a delightful winter story hour. Then make a warming cup of cider, fragrant with spices. Ages 5 and up. Reservations required. Adults free with accompanying child. C $5. 978-369-9763, concordmuseum.org

FREE Poetry Reading for Kids 12 and Under. The Rabbit Hole Bookstore, 805 Main St., Fitchburg. 1 – 2 p.m. Bring in a favorite poem to read out loud, or one will be given your child. If you write your own poems, all the better to hear your creation. Moms, Dads, and family members are welcome to read also and must accompany a child to this event. Area writer/artist Sally Cragin will host the poetry readings. 978-345-0040, info@therabbitholeusa.com

Love Songs. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 1 – 4 p.m. The vocal duo of Leah Randazzo & Jeff D'Antona will be performing several sets on this Valentine’s Day afternoon. Come anytime to enjoy this live performance. Light refreshments included. Program will be in Alcott’s Restaurant & Tea Room at Fruitlands. $15 PP. 978-456-3924 x 227, fruitlands.org

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

FREE Pocket Valentine Card Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 2 – 4 p.m. See Feb. 12 listing for details but note the change in time on this date.

Girls in Synch. YMCA, 1 Salem Square, Worcester. 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Girls in 4th through 8th grade learn the basics of synchronized swimming at this wet and wonderful event at the YWCA in Worcester. A great way to enjoy the water, music, and performance all at once! Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts and the YWCA of Central Mass. $15 per girl. Lynn - 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

Valentine's Day Party. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. Noon – 5 p.m. Grab your sweethearts and enjoy some family fun. Cost varies. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com

Monday 15

Orange Day. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Orange Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Engineering Week. Boston Children’s Museum. Design, create, build, problem-solve, plan and construct! Through Feb. 19. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

FREE Kids Vacation Week Adventures at MFA. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Mon., Feb 15 – Fri., Feb 19, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Theme: Fantastic Creatures. The MFA presents a wide range of fun, hands-on activities exploring animals in art from mythical beasts to colonial pets. Discover the galleries on a tour especially for families, participate in an interactive performance or workshop, and create your own art in a variety of activities throughout the Museum. No registration required. All ages and abilities welcome. Children should always be accompanied by an adult. A$20, C (17 and under) free. 617-267-9300, mfa.org.

FREE[SENSE]ation Day! Fuller Craft Museum, Brockton. Visitors of all ages are invited to join for a FREE community day celebration full of interactive family fun and a variety of handson activities designed to celebrate the critically acclaimed exhibitions.Spend the afternoon in amazing art workshops, exploring the galleries and watching artist demonstrations! Learn how to fold origami, create a shoe story book, and weave a shoelace creation. 508-588-6000 or fullercraft.org.

A Week of Self Discovery for Girls. Self Discovery Enterprises, The Chelmsford Center for the Arts, 1A North Rd., Chelmsford. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Through Feb., 19). A team of experts designed a unique program to address the challenges facing teenage girls entering grades 7 – 9. Includes healthy snacks, handson demonstrations and more. Camp tuition applies. 978-256-9391, aweekofselfdiscovery.com

A Visit with Abraham Lincoln. Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike. 1 p.m. Matching Lincoln's height and beard, performer Steve Wood bears enough of a resemblance to our 16th president to make heads turn. His first-person historical interpretation includes stories of his early life, the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and concludes with a stirring reading of the Gettysburg Address. For all ages, by reservation only; reserve early as space is limited. A $10, C $5. 978-369- 9763, concordmuseum.org.

Glamour Princess Tea Party. Mia Bella Spa, 12 Main St., Leominster. 11 a.m. Little girls will get glamorous updos with a rhinestone tiara comb to keep, nails painted and delight in a princess tea party. Each guest will receive a digital picture to take home. Cost is $35 per child. RSVP to debbie@missemmastea.com or call 978 479-5272

FREE Molly’s Star Whirler Craft. American girl. Natick Collection. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Say “Hurray for the USA!” just like Molly did in her day—learn to make a patriotic star whirler. For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com.

Dazzle Your Doll. American Girl, Natick Collection. 10 a.m. Learn fancy salon secrets and five-minute doll ’dos, then decorate a tropical doll outfit that’s perfect for a beach vacation. Plus, every girl will enjoy a delicious meal and take home a doll-sized travel booklet —perfect for dolls on the go! Reservations required. For girls 8 and up. $50 PP (gratuity not included). 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

Artful Tales. Peabody Essex Museum, Atrium, 161 Essex St., East India Square, Salem. Artist Demonstration, 1–3 p.m. Help illustrator Robin Brickman transform the Atrium into a tropical habitat for colorful paper birds and other creatures inspired by her recent books Wings and Beaks. Drop-in Art Activity, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Art Studios: Transform an old children's book into a unique work of art. Free with admission. A $15, children 16 and under, free. pem.org.

Sturbridge Host Hotels Kid's Expo. Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center, 366 Main St. 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. (Snow date: Feb. 16 – Call the hotel for details). The Kid's Expo benefits The Molly Bish Foundation with live entertainment all day including Ronald McDonald, Team Elite Martial Arts, Mass Motion Dance, Mike the Bubble Man, Magic Shows, face painting and so much more.A $3, C $1. 508- 347-7393, Sturbridgehosthotel.com

Walk-in Art Class. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. 1 – 2 p.m. Through Feb., 19. Learn a new technique and complete a different project each day. For more information or explanation of project and price – 508-755- 7776, theclaygroundma.com

Tuesday 16

Yellow Day. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Yellow Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Pioneer Valley Performing Arts School present Charlotte’s Web. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.. For audiences of all ages. $6 PP. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Museum Admissions Desk or by calling 413-658-1126. Ticket price does not include Museum Admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, under 1, free. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

Family Program Vacation Week Drop-in Discovery Room. Peabody Museum, Harvard University, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. Daily, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Through Feb., 20). What do anthropologists and archaeologists study? Enjoy fun activities and get some answers! Decorate a bison hide, grind corn, make Maya glyphs, visit the book nook, explore tables of artifacts while you learn about their conservation, and see if you are up to the challenge of gallery hunts and puzzles. Free with admission. A $9, C $6. 617- 495-3397, peabody.harvard.edu

February Vacation Workshops. Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway. 10 a.m. - Noon & 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. 10 - Noon - Drawing with Oil Pastels (for ages 6 – 8) and Hang It Up! Wire Mobiles (for ages 9 – 11). 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. - Gnome Homes (for ages 6 – 8) and Drawing with Oil Pastels (for ages 9 – 11). $18 per child. Discount for multiple bookings. 978- 345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org

Winter Detectives. Garden in the Woods, Framingham. For Children in Grades K-2. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Instructor Bonnie Drexler helps explore the wintry woods. What clues can we find about the animals and plants around us? Whose teeth chewed that branch, whose tracks lead up to that tree stump, which buds have a furry winter coat? Use all your senses to investigate life above, in, and under the snow. Inside the classroom after warm snacks, conduct experiments with snow and ice to learn more clues about winter survival. $14 PP. Preregistration is necessary, contact the. 508-877- 7630, x 3303, newenglandwild.org

NRWA Winter Explorers Program. Nashua River Watershed Association, NRWA River Resource Center, 592 Main St., Groton. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Through Feb. 18). Spend time enjoying the winter outdoors with forest exploration, winter tree identification, snow shelter building, orienteering, animal tracking, as well as indoor time with crafts, stories and games; and much more! For 6 - 12 year olds. Come to all 3 days or pick the days that are best for you. Bring lunch. Pre-registration is required. $45 per child per day. 978-448-0299, LaurenP@NashuaRiverWatershed.org.

FREE Fun Felt! Leominster Library. 10 a.m. Tweens ages 8-12 are invited to create fun felt critters! Make a bluebird, panda bear, goldfish, lion, and monster that can be turned into appliques, magnets, or pins. Registration is required and begins Feb. 2. leominsterlibrary.org

Longfellow Sports Club February School Vacation Program. 203 Oak St., Natick. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. with Extended Day available. (Through February 19). Gym-time, free swim, arts and crafts, free play in our game room and more! $75 per day per person. 508-653- 4633, longfellowclubs.com

FREE Josefina’s Memory Box Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. Noon – 2 p.m. Your girl can make a memory box of her very own, much like the one Josefina filled with keepsakes that remind her of Mamá. For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com.

FREE Keith Munslow Performance at Providence Children's Museum. Providence, RI. 1 & 2 p.m. Join popular singer and storyteller Keith Munslow for a unique mix of funny, original tunes, tales and tonguetwisting rhymes. It's an upbeat, lively performance packed with tinkling piano tunes and audience participation. Ages 3 - 11. Space is limited. Program free with $7.50 Museum admission; under 12 months free. 401-273- 5437, childrenmuseum.org/calendar.asp

You Are What You Eat! University of UMASS Regional Science Resource Center, 222 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury. 9 – 10:30 a.m. Ever watch crime shows on TV? Where in the world does a forensic scientist begin when she is analyzing DNA from a crime scene? What is DNA? You’ll be able to see what DNA actually looks like and find out about some of its many unique properties from what YOU extract from an onion in this laboratory workshop. Girls in 4th and 5th grade. Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $5 per girl. Lynn. 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

Snowshoe Scavenger Hunt. Gore Place, 52 Gore St., Waltham. M-F from 10a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat Noon – 3 p.m. (Through Feb., 20). Children of all ages and their accompanying adults may rent snowshoes and participate in a scavenger hunt on the 45-acre estate. All participants will be automatically entered into a drawing for a Grand Prize of a Family Membership to Gore Place. Snowshoe rental is $5 per pair. Adult and children sizes available. Free parking. Just ring the bell at the mansion to rent your snowshoes! Group arrangements may be made for school groups, preschools, homeschools, and daycare providers. $5 per pair of snowshoes. To reserve your snowshoes and for group arrangements, 781-894-2798, goreplace.org

Shel Silverstein's Where the Sidewalk Ends. Watertown Children's Theatre, Arsenal Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St, Watertown. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Through Feb. 19). Students in grades 1-5 can spend their vacation week exploring the beloved poems of Shel Silverstein through theater games, songs, scenes, costumes and more. Pre-registration is required. Open to grades 1-5.Camp tuition applies. 617-926-2787, watertownchildrenstheatre.org

Diggin’ the Egyptians February Vacation Program. Wayland Art Center, Main St. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Also Feb. 17). You be the archaeologist. Unearth treasures from the kingdom of the pharaohs. Journey back to the glory days of Ancient Egypt. Make artifacts such as cartouches, amulet necklaces, canopic jars, and reed boats. Learn the history and culture of this rich civilization and the art it produced. Make the favorite board game of the pyramid builders and play with your friends. Make Fruitenkhamun" (mummified fruit) and bandage up a friend to make your own mummified pal. It's a pyramid scheme that we sphinx you'll love. Bring a snack (no nuts please), drink, and lunch. Grade 1 – 4. $116 PP. 508- 358-3660 or wayland.ma.us/park

Art Workshops February Vacation Program. Wayland Art Center. Grades K – 5. 1 – 4 p.m. Tues., Feb. 16, Wild Thing: Make one out of clay! Work with kiln-fired ceramic clay to create your very own wild thing. Supply the imagination and creativity. Will your wild thing have three horns? Crazy hair? Snaggly Teeth? Let your imagination run wild! Wed., Feb. 17, Multi-Media Art: Make a snow man out of Sculpey polymer clay and display it on a mirror adorned with snowballs. Paint a pottery mug with snowflakes and glaze. (All materials are non-toxic; mugs are microwave and dishwasher safe.) Collage and decoupage a wooden picture frame. Choose from array of papers, fancy scissors, and paper punches to create a one of a kind picture frame. $50 PP per day. 508- 358-3660 or wayland.ma.us/park

F.A.S.T. Athletics Supersports February Vacation Program. Athletics at Wayland Town Building, 41 Cochituate Rd., Wayland. Tues. – Fri., Feb. 16 - 19. 9 a.m. – Noon. Get up, get going, get active with a F.A.S.T.Athletics Super Sports Program. F.A.S.T. Athletics offer a variety of sports such as: soccer, basketball, flag football, dodge ball, matball and kickball. Programs include proper stretching and warm-up games as well as learning basic skills of each sport. Each class ends with a high energy game with the sport played that day. Bring snack and drink. Age 6 – 11. $120 PP. 508- 358-3660 or wayland.ma.us/park

Wednesday 17

Green Day. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Green Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Charlotte’s Web at The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. 1 and 3 p.m. See Feb. 16 listing for details.

Meet The Pokey Little Puppy. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 1, 2:30, and 3 p.m. At The Museum Shop. Meet at the Museum Shop and meet these picture book characters! Don’t forget to bring your camera. Please note that these are life-size costumed characters and may be scary for young children. Free but does not include museum admission. . A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, Under 1, free. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

February Vacation Workshops at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway. 10 a.m. – Noon: Patterned Clay Tiles ( ages 6 – 8) and Rock the Box! (ages 9 – 11). 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.: Light It Up! (ages 6 – 8) and Patterned Clay Tiles ( ages 9 – 11). $18 per child. Discount for multiple bookings. 978 345 4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org

FREE Bubbles! Leominster Library. 3 – 4 p.m. Keith Michael Johnson will wow with amazing bubble creations. Some of his tricks will include fog, helium, bubble domes, and even kids! He'll test the limits of bubble abilities! Suitable for all ages and for anyone who likes to have FUN! No registration required. leominsterlibary.org.

Drumming About You with Bob Bloom. Arts Alliance, Bigelow School gym (Assabet Valley Collaborative), 57 Orchard St., Marlborough. 1 p.m. - workshop; 2 p.m. – performance. Hands-on drumming workshop followed by interactive performance with students. Joyous rhythms of Brazil, Cuba, Afica & North America to be explored. A $10, C $8. 978-562-1646, upwitharts.org

FREE Felicity’s Ball-and-Cup Game Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 3 – 5 p.m. Make Felicity’s world come to life! Your girl can try a game Felicity might have played in colonial Williamsburg. She’ll design her own Ball and Cup Game, then learn how to play. For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com

Date with Dad. American Girl. Natick Collection. 5:30 p.m. Spend a day with Dad! You’ll enjoy an extra-special meal, plus a commemorative photo and special keepsakes to take home as a reminder of the memories made during your special day. Also includes a memory book creation activity. Reservations required. For girls 6 and up. Reservations required. For girls 6 and up. $30 PP, gratuity not included. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com.

Winter Wonderland Magic Show. Puckihuddle Preschool, Oxford Community Center, 4 Maple Rd., Oxford. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. A benefit for Puckihuddle Preschool featuring award-winning magician, Jazzy Jay! $4 PP. 508-476-2939, puckihuddle.com.

FREE The Magic of Science Performance at Providence Children's Museum. 100 South St., Providence, RI. 1 and 2 p.m. “Marvelous Marvin” Novogrodski leads aspiring young scientists on a magical exploration of scientific experimentation and the art of invention. Learn about air pressure, carbon dioxide and the invention of the wheel and get plenty of ideas for simple experiments to try at home. Ages 4 - 11, space is limited. Program free with $7.50 Museum admission; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org/calendar.asp

Try Synchro Swimming. YMCA, 1 Salem Square, Worcester. 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Girls in 2nd through 5th grade learn the basics of synchronized swimming at this wet and wonderful event . A great way to enjoy the water, music and performance all at once! Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts and the YWCA of Central Mass. $15 per girl. Lynn,1-800-462- 9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org

Thursday 18

Blue Day. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Blue Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Charlotte’s Web at The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. 1 and 3 p.m. See Feb. 16 listing for details. Plus meet The Pokey Little Puppy.

February Vacation Workshops. Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway. 10 a.m. – Noon: Stuffed Style on a Stick (ages 6 – 8) and Underwater Watercolor Painting (ages 9 –11). 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.: Underwater Watercolor Painting (ages 6 – 8) and Japanese Fish Print Fun ( ages 9 –11). $18 per child. Discount for multiple bookings. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org.

Animal Tracking. Garden in the Woods, Framingham. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. For children for children in grades 2-5. Learn some winter tracking skills as Instructor Bonnie Drexler helps you to explore the winter woods. Can you tell the difference between a rabbit and a squirrel tracks? How do coyote tracks differ from fox tracks? Learn to identify other clues that animals leave behind as they hunt for food or escape their predators. Make a track finder to use and take home. Enjoy cocoa and treats after our exploration. $14 PP. Preregistration is necessary, contact the registrar. 508-877-7630, x 3303, newenglandwild.org

Children's Tea. Asa Waters Mansion, 123 Elm St., Millbury. 2 p.m. (Snow date: Feb 19th). Enjoy tasty goodies specially made for junior guests, served along with tea punch. Many items to complement the theme of a wonderful children’s storybook read by Millbury Superintendent of Schools Susan Hitchcock. A $15, C $12. 508-865-0855, asawaters.org

“Be Your Best” Workshop. American Girl. Natick Collection. 10 a.m. Your girl can stretch her mind—and body—as she learns “Ten Things Every Girl Needs to Know About Taking Care of Herself, Inside and Out!” After everything from learning simple stretches to playing a fun dancing game that gets her moving, she’ll leave feeling strong and sure of who she is! Reservations required. For girls 8 and up. $24 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com.

FREE Wingmasters Performance. Providence Children's Museum, 100 South St., Providence, RI. 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Families learn about majestic birds of prey with licensed raptor rehabilitator Julie Collier. Meet a glorious golden eagle, a tiny owl, a red-tailed hawk, a falcon and other magnificent raptors. Ages 3 - 11, space is limited. Program free with $7.50 Museum admission; under 12 months free. 401-273- 5437, childrenmuseum.org/calendar.asp

World of Owls Presentation. The House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby St., Salem. 1 – 2 p.m. and 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Snow Date: Feb. 19. An exciting program by Wingmasters focusing on the fact and fiction surrounding one of the most misunderstood birds in North America – the owl. The show teaches about how owls use their specialized powers of sight, hearing and flight to survive and thrive. A variety of live owls are used during the indoor presentation which covers both the natural and unnatural history of owls. A $12, C (5-12) $10, Family pack (limited to 2 adults & 2 Children) $35. 978-744-0991 ext. 104, 7gables.org

Forensic Scientist. UMASS Regional Science Resource Center, 222 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury. 9 -11 a.m. Where in the world does a forensic scientist begin when she is analyzing DNA from a crime scene? Girls in grades 6-8 will learn this and more at this laboratory workshop Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $5 per girl. Lynn, 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org

Make It and Take It. Wayland Art Center, Main St. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.(Also Feb., 19). Make and take home a wide assortment of toys designed to teach you science in a hands-on way. Grow a crystal tree. Make an energy bead bracelet and watch as those amazing beads turn from white to a rainbow of colors. Build a working electric motor. Make a sharpie pen Tshirt and learn some cool chemistry (student supplies a 100% cotton T-shirt). Make bubbling blobs and explore the properties of a density tube. Make silly putty—glowing goo—green flubber and other cool projects. We will make ice cream in our own amazing, different, Sciensational way! (Bring snack, lunch, drinks). Ages 6 – 10. $147 PP. 508-358-3660 or wayland.ma.us/park

Friday 19

Violet Day. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Violet Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Charlotte’s Web. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art in Amherst. 1 and 3 p.m. See Feb. 16 listing for details. Also meet The Pokey Little Puppy.

Be Counted! Boston Children’s Museum. Learn about the 2010 Census and why it is important. 6 – 8 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Tea for Two. Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord. 2 – 4 p.m. (Also Feb., 20). Delight your child or grandchild with an afternoon tea just for the two of you! Make the day a special outing by sipping cocoa and tea in the Concord Museum’s elegant Brooke Hall while enjoying mini cupcakes from an award winning Somerville bakery. An imaginative teatime activity and a visit to the Museum to see the colorful 19th-century children’s reward cups are included in this special afternoon. By reservation only. A $15, C $10. 978-369-9763, concordmuseum.org

A Celebration of Winter. Mass Audubon South Shore Sanctuaries, North River Wildlife Sanctuary, Marshfield. 9 - 11:30 a.m. Through indoor and outdoor activities, you’ll explore the North River Wildlife Sanctuary in search of special secrets that winter has to offer. Please bring a snack, lunch, and dress appropriately for the weather. A, Free. C $30. 781-837-9400, massaudubon.org/northriver

Saturday 20

Brown Day. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Add your personal touch to the Brown Canvas Creation and then design your own masterpiece to take home. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Golden Books: Then and Now. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 1 p.m. in the auditorium. (1 PDP) Join Diane Muldrow, editorialdirector at Golden Books, and Golden Book artist, Dan Yaccarino, as they share their “Golden Memories” and the role these “Little Books” now play in their lives. Also meet the Pokey Little Puppy! Free with Museum Admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, under 1, free.413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

Critter Day: Jungle Encounters. Boston Children’s Museum. Are animals engineers, too? Come find out! 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617- 426-6500, ostonchildrensmuseum.org

FREE Kid's Winter Olympics Celebration. Atrium Mall, Chestnut Hill. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Opening ceremony begins at 11 a.m., where children will be able to design their own medals. Mini-Olympic events will take place, followed by a closing ceremony. Give-aways for the upcoming movie “How to Train your Dragon” will be given away. 617-527-1400, atrium-mall.com

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

FREE Bitty Bear’s Birthday Celebration. American Girl. Natick Collection. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. It’s Bitty Bear’s birthday—stop by the Bitty Baby boutique to celebrate! Start by signing the giant birthday card with wishes for your furry friend, then decorate a girl-sized birthday tiara to take home. For girls 3 and up. americangirl.com

Sculpting your Dreams: A practical guide to tools, techniques and materials. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Call for times. Take an object from your imagination to reality in this step-by-step workshop with artist Hilary Scott. A $10, C $7. 508-853-6015, higgins.org

Sunday 21

Meet The Pokey Little Puppy. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. See Feb., 17 listing for details.

Special Sundays. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. 1 - 4 p.m. In The Art Studio. Always a surprise and sometimes messy, so bring a smock! Free with Museum Admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, under 1, free. 413-658-1100, carlemuseum.org

Art Meets Music VIII! Boston Children’s Museum. Live classical, blues, and jazz inspires artwork Museum wide. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

New England Barn Dances. The New England Folk Festival Association and the Folk Arts Center of New England. Concord Scout House, 74 Walden St., Concord. 2 – 4 p .m. Learn traditional New England Barn Dances and some World Dances, too, with Jacob Bloom and Judith Stames-Hamilton. All dances taught and appropriate for age 5 and up. Live music. Refreshments served.$5pp, $25 family maximum. 781-662-7475, facone.org.

Purim Party Featuring Jenny the Juggler. MetroWest Jewish Community Center, 29 Upper Joclyn Ave., Framingham. 10:30 a.m. – Noon. Get in the spirit of this festive holiday with Jenny as she performs her unique variety show which combines juggling, magic, music, comedy, interactive silliness and lots of audience participation, After the show, party on with face painting, balloon sculptures, Purim crafts and a light snack. Don't miss the fun! Call for tickets:617-558-6522, jccgb.org/magicark.html

Thoreauly Birds. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 1 p.m. Meet and talk with Henry Thoreau! Thoreau, portrayed by Richard Smith, will be speaking to his love of birds. This 19th c. author and prolific journal keeper shines with his passionately observed writings. A $10, C $5 ( up to 14). 978-456- 3924 x 227, fruitlands.org

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

Secret Rock Start. American Girl Doll Create & Play. Wayland Art Ctr., 153 Main St., Rte. 27, Wayland. 2 – 5 p.m. Be prepared to turn your American Girl Doll into a Rock Star!!! You will artistically create things for you and your doll. Grades K – 5. $48 PP. 508-358- 3660, wayland.ma.us/park

Monday 22

Magic Loop Sock Knitting. The Fiber Loft, 9 Massachusetts Ave (Route 111), Harvard. 7 -9 p.m. See Feb., 8 listing for details.

Tuesday 23

FREE Pancakes at IHOP. 7 a.m. - 10 pm. Enjoy a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes for each guest. In exchange for the free flapjacks, IHOP will ask guests to consider making a voluntary contribution to Children’s Miracle Network or other local charities. ihoppancakeday.com

FREE Friends Storytime & Craft. Barnes & Noble, Framingham. 10:30 a.m. (Also Feb., 24). Photographer Tanja Askani adopts orphaned or injured animals -- wolf pups, raccoons, owls, rabbits, and fawns, among others -- and under her care, unexpected friendships form. At these storytimes, hear A Friend Like You, her collection of heartmeltingly cute photographs accompanied by simple text celebrating the comforts and delights of friendship. This book is sure to appeal to anyone who loves animals and appreciates a true friend. 508-628-5567.

Dazzling Doll ’Dos for Fancy Occasions. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4:30 p.m. in the Craft Studio. Stylists share tips and tricks for creating a crown veil or ponytail veil hairdo.. Each girl will also receive a special goody bag with doll hair accessories and styling instructions. Reservations required. For girls 8 and up. $24 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

FREE FOR PARENTS Yoga Class Central Mass Yoga Central Mass Yoga and Wellness, Inc., 45 Sterling Street #28, West Boylston. 12:30 – 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a cup of tea. No preregistration is required- just wear comfortable clothes. Centralmassyoga.com

Wednesday 24

Beatrix Potter: More than Peter Rabbit! SMART Gals (Science-Math-Art) Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 2 – 4:30 p.m. Beatrix Potter, best known as the author and illustrator of the Peter Rabbit books, was also a self-taught botanist who studied fungi and lichens. Learn how her paintings of fungi led her to careful observations, experiments, and important discoveries. Be inspired by this artist and scientist and make your own sketches of fungi, mosses and lichens. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Dabble in Design. The Eric Carle Museum Picture Book Art, Amherst. Through April 6. Design a book cover for your very own story using materials inspired by the Victorian era. Free with Museum Admission. A $9, C (1-18) $6, $22.50 Family, under 1, free. 413-658- 1100, carlemuseum.org.

FREE Friends Storytime & Craft. Barnes & Noble, Framingham. 10:30 a.m. See Feb., 23 listing for details.

Sip Some Sap! Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Learn about maple sugaring, take a walk out to our sugar bush, and see how sap is made into syrup in the evaporator. Enjoy a tasty maple treat! Age 3+. Preregistration required. $12 PP. 781-259- 2206, massaudbon.org/drumlin

The Dinosaur Connection (Series program). Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 4 – 5:30 p.m. (Wednesdays, Feb. 24- March 10). What is the connection between scales and feathers? Were dinosaurs warm blooded or cold blooded? Come and explore some of the links between birds and reptiles, and how they relate back to their dinosaur ancestors. Each week meet a different bird and reptile. Ages 6-9. Preregistration required. $54 PP. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin

FREE For Moms. Chat with a Children's Librarian. MetroWest Boston Mothers & More, Whitney Place, 3 Vision Dr (Rte 9W) Natick. 7:30 p.m. Are your kids always asking you for new books to read? Are you tired of reading the same books over and over? Come hear Patricia Keogh, a children's librarian, talk about new books and classics that your kids will love. Bring some of your favorites to share with the group as well. metrowestmothersandmore.org.

Thursday 25

Bitty Bear’s Story Time. American Girl. Natick Collection.10:30 a.m. It’s story time with the Bitty Bunch! Preschoolers and their parents can hear a reading of Bitty Bear’s Story Time, then enjoy an art activity and tasty treats. Reservations required. For girls 3 and up. $10 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

Nature Adventures for 5s and 6s. Mass Audubon: Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester. 12:45 – 2:45 p.m. Held the second Thursday of each month. Explore topics indoors -- with investigations, crafts, and activities and outdoors in a beautiful 400-acre wildlife sanctuary. These classes will provide in-depth learning in a supportive social environment..Register: 508-753-6087. C $15 (NM). E-mail: bmbrook@massaudubon.org

Friday 26

Messy Masterpiece. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. With just a few basic ingredients, mix up some dough and construct original art. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Geodesic Engineering. Science discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Discover how math, geometry, and engineering come together as you construct a 6-foot geodesic dome. Learn about Buckminster Fuller, and geodesic structures from houses to buckyballs, diatoms, and viruses! Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

GoKids! Oral Health Celebration. Boston Children’s Museum. Learn how to care for your teeth and gums! 5 – 8 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

FREE Girl of the Year Activity Day. American Girl. Natick Collection. 3 – 5 p.m. Your girl can celebrate the arrival of the 2010 Girl of the Year during an event that’s inspired by a love of the outdoors! Your girl can participate in a scavenger hunt, and then make her own nature notebook and flower bookmark. For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com

Saturday 27

Meet Bessie! Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Come meet Bessie, the dinosaur mascot of The Discovery Museums. She’s loves to give high-fives and hugs! *Bessie is a costumed museum staff member. Free with admission. $9 to one museum or $13 to both museums. discoverymuseums.org

Museum of Science Overnight. Museum of Science, Boston. 5:30 p.m. - 11 a.m. Girls in grades 2-5 participate in fun hands-on science activities, live demonstrations, and shows at this fabulous overnight. Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $55 PP. Lynn, 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

A Night in the Gallery. Chair City Artisans Gallery, 44 Main St., Gardner. 5:30 p.m. - 9 a.m. Girls in grades 2 and 3 will spend an evening amongst the arts. Crafts, fashion show and fun are in store! Sponsored by Hands on 4 Kidz and Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. $25 per girl. Lynn, 800-462- 9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

Track Tales- Weekend Program! Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd. Lincoln. 10 a.m. – Noon. Take a walk with an experienced tracker to discover the world of native animals in winter. Age 6+. Preregistration required. $18 PP. 781- 259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin

Winter Chili Festival. Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RI. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sample a variety of chili recipes prepared by local, regional, and world champion chefs. Enjoy culinary demonstrations, a chili pepper eating contest, chili cook-offs, a children’s play area and more. A $15, C under 12, free. 401-889-8113, chili-festival.com

Star Wars Jedi Training Workshop. Wayland Art Ctr., 153 Main St., Rte. 27, Wayland. 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. Everything STAR WARS! Activities may include: designing and making your own recycled Droid, making a training lightsaber and learning what it is to be a Jedi Knight. Ages 5 – 10. $48 PP. 508-358- 3660, wayland.ma.us/park

Grades 6 – 12 Public Relations Workshop. Girl Scout Service Center, 81 Gold Star Boulevard, Worcester. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. There are many times throughout your life you will need to promote yourself...job interviews, college applications, and more! Girls in grades 6-12 will learn from a pro as they learn PR lingo, create a press kit for themselves, and more. Sponsored by Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts and Art to Gogh. $15 per girl. Lynn, 1-800-462-9100 x3604, lchaput@gscwm.org.

Sunday 28

Submit an Event For best results, fill out our form at baystateparent.com. Keep in mind, our deadline for March is Friday, February 5 at 6 p.m. E-mail Leslie Castillo at calendar@baystateparent.com It’s FREE. Chinese New Year! Boston Children’s Museum. Welcome the Year of the Tiger! Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. A $12, C (1-15) $9, under one, free. Fridays 5 – 9 p.m., all visitors $1. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Meet the Author: Evelyn Coleman. American Girl. Natick Collection. 2 – 4 p.m. Meet Evelyn Coleman, award-winning author of Shadows on Society Hill, an Addy mystery book. This informal session is your opportunity to meet Ms. Coleman and have your favorite books signed.For girls ages 8+. And, American Girl Dinner with Author Evelyn Coleman. 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a talk with award-winning author Evelyn Coleman! She’ll share the secrets of her writing process and explain how she created some of American Girl’s intriguing mysteries. All American Girl book fans and aspiring writers are encouraged to stay for Q&A. Reservations required. For all ages. $26 PP. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com

WinterFest. Fruitlands, Harvard. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See Feb. 6 listing for details.

Under the Snow - A Children's Program. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 1 p.m. How do animals living in fields and forests, ponds and wetlands survive in the heart of winter? Author Melissa Stewart was curious about the answer to that question and decided to write a book about it. Stewart will present this interactive children’s program based on her book Under the Snow. You may even do some outdoor exploration! Appropriate for ages 4-11. Children must be accompanied by an adult. A $10, C $5. 978-456-3924 x 227, fruitlands.org

Harlem Globetrotters. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 3 p.m. $120 - $20.75. Tickets: 800-745-3000 and ticketmaster.com. 508-755-6800, dcucenter.com.