Have a mini artist or architect on your hands? How about a science fiend who adores desert creepy crawlies or an athlete who isn't afraid of getting dirty? This weekend of June 7 to June 9 offers a fun-filled lineup of indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family.
Friday
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona’s Creative Crew
Is your kiddo between the ages of 6 through 10 and loves building with LEGO bricks and watching one-of-a-kind creations come to life? Apply today to become a part of LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona’s second-annual Creative Crew, a group of imaginative kids who will assist with a variety of efforts and special events at the attraction. In addition to attending monthly meetings and taking part in regular build sessions alongside Master Model Builder Alec Posta, the members of the Creative Crew will get two free annual passes to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona, invitations to exclusive events and a Creative Crew T-shirt to wear to monthly meetings and activities. Apply here before Sunday, June 9, for consideration. Those chosen to move on to the final round will then receive invites to take part in a building competition on Saturday, June 15, at Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, which will ultimately determine who makes the final cut.
Parma Italian Root Summer Reading Program
Parma Italian Roots encourages continued reading throughout summer break to support on-going learning in kids. To do so, Parma is partnering with the Scottsdale Public Library to promote its summer reading program. At each point milestone – i.e. 250, 500, 750 and 1,000 point levels – a child can pick any item off of Parma’s kids menu for free with no purchase necessary. The summer reading program runs June 1 to August 1. The library uses maricopacountyreads.org to track the number of minutes read. On Saturday, June 1, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., participants can stop by the Appaloose, Arabian, Civic Center and Mustang Scottsdale Public Library locations to register.
Friday Night Family Yoga at Kaleidoscope Dance in Mesa
Every Friday evening from 6 to 7 p.m., Nicole Anne Yoga invites parents, grandparents and their children and grandchildren, ages 3 to 12, to enjoy a relaxing, calming Yoga Nidra class together at Kaleidoscope Dance studio in Mesa. The focus of the class is on releasing energy, calming the mind and body, and ending with a peaceful meditation. Families are asked to bring their own yoga mats, blankets and pillows; stuffed animals for the kids are also welcome. Cost is $10 per child and free for parents and grandparents.
The Heard Museum Presents Color Riot! How Color Changed Navajo Textiles
The Heard Museum in Phoenix presents Color Riot! How Color Changed Navajo Textiles, on display through Sept. 29. The exhibition explores the Navajo culture, individualism and flair for experimentation in textiles from the last quarter of the 19th century. Remember: free admission on First Friday at Heard Museum from 6 to 10 p.m.!
Saturday
Mighty Mud Mania
It’s time for muddy family fun at Mighty Mud Mania on Saturday, June 8, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Located in Chaparral Park in Scottsdale, the event offers muddy obstacle courses for every age group and ability level. Mud pits just to play in are also available, along with a water slide area for those who prefer not to get dirty. Admission is free for all ages; donations of non-perishable food items will be collected for the Vista Del Camino food bank.
Phoenix Zoo
Savor a sunny day at one of the nation’s largest nonprofit zoos, the Phoenix Zoo. The spot is home to more than 3,000 animals, big and small. It opens up a world of wonder, caring for thousands of animals, and features up-close animal encounters, rides, unique experiences and tours. Even the littlest animal lovers can pet and brush the goats in the large Red Barn at Harmony Farm during precious picture-perfect moments.
Crayola Experience Chandler
Arizona’s newest and most colorful family attraction, Crayola Experience Chandler, has opened its doors at the Chandler Fashion Center. In addition to 19 colorful, hands-on activities, the 20,000-sq.-ft. attraction has a large retail space, The Crayola Store, featuring the world's largest selection of Crayola products and unique souvenirs, including plush toys and apparel. The attraction is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Desert Botanical Garden’s Flashlight Tours
Take a one-of-a-kind tour through the desert night. During Desert Botanical Garden’s Flashlight Tours, guests will get to experience animals, insects, plant life and much more that the desert has to offer. Make sure to bring your flashlight so you can enjoy the desert after dark. The flashlight tour begins at 7 p.m. and will last until 9:30 p.m. Saturdays through August 31.
Sunday
SEA LIFE Aquarium
Feast your eyes on 30 displays and thousands of aquatic creatures, including sharks, rays and tropical fish, during this under-the-sea adventure at SEA LIFE Aquarium at Arizona Mills. Guests can even encounter the ocean critters firsthand at SEA LIFE’s touch pools. Upon arrival, keep an eye on the day’s schedule for educational talks and feeding times.
Butterfly Wonderland Celebrates 50th Birthday of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”
Butterfly Wonderland has partnered with Penguin Publishing and acclaimed author Eric Carle to bring a special exhibition that celebrates the 50th birthday of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” This limited-time, one-of-a-kind exhibit transports guests to the distinctive and colorful world of Carle through August 31. Activities include live caterpillars and other creatures from Carle's books, larger-than-life storybook pages, photo opps, unique caterpillar educational trading cards, story times and much more.
