Sunday, May 12th is Mother’s Day! Do you have big plans for a Mother’s Day celebration? While we all have different visions of our perfect day, the one common thread is that this is a day to celebrate Mom. For your special day, you may want drop some not-so-subtle-hints to your family on how you would like to spend your day. For instance:
- breakfast in bed, prepared by someone other than mom or head to the West Point Inn for a yummy pancake breakfast
- get outside for a great cause at the Marin Human Race
- make a cool craft and have a special farmers market tea at the Marin Country Mart
- eat a delicious Mother’s Day BBQ in Stinson Beach
- volunteer to help Mother Nature with Save The Bay
The choices are endless. What ever all you fabulous moms out there decide to do, have a Fantastic Mother’s Day!
If you did not get tickets to the sold out The Storybook Ball fundraiser you can still participate in two ways:
The Storybook Ball Online Auction is now OPEN! Browse, bid and come back for more. Auction items include vacation packages, indulgent spa services, camps, family photography, fine dining, fun things to do over the summer and much more. Now is your chance to not only get all the great items you want, but to do it knowing you are helping support programming for children and teens at the Mill Valley Library.
The second chance for support is to enter the Storybook Ball 100 Bottle Wine Raffle. Only 100 tickets will be sold for $100 each. The winning tickets will win 100 bottles of fine wines. To purchase raffle tickets email mvstorybooks@gmail.com.
Ronnie’s Awesome MNO/Date Night recommendation this month: Art Walks! Open gallery events are held the first Tuesday of every month in Mill Valley, every second Friday in San Rafael and first Thursday of the month in San Francisco. But for two weekends in May check out Marin Open Studio. Take a stroll, drink some wine and view exciting exhibits featuring a wide range of art by local artists.
- Sausalito Artist Open Studios, ICB & Schoonmaker Building, May 4 & 5
- Mill Valley First Tuesday Artwalk, 6-8pm
- San Anselmo Artist Open Studio, May 11-12, May 4 & 5
- Art Works Downtown, San Rafael
- Novato Arts Center, May 11 & 12
- SF Thursday Night Gallery Strolls
May 2013
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Wednesday, May 1
Alice in Wonderland, Film of the Month, The Disney Museum.
Thursday May 2
Star Viewing hosted by the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers, 7:30 – 8:45pm, Enjoy stars, planets and nebula using powerful telescopes to bring the night sky in view. Bring the family and share the wonder. Fairfax Library.
Friday May 3
Honk, 7:30pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, Separated from the farm and pursued by a hungry Cat, Ugly must find his way home. Along his rollicking and harrowing journey he not only discovers his true beauty and glorious destiny, but also finds love and acceptance in all its forms, San Anselmo Playhouse.
Daddy Daughter Dance, 7-9pm, Corte Madera Rec Center.
Playdate 2013, Urban Circus Spectacular, returning to Museum grounds. Join us under the big top at the Bay Area Discovery Museum for a grown-up playdate, featuring delectable cocktails & food, live auction, raffle, and amazing spectacles to delight the senses.
Les 7 Doigts de la Main Circus, 8pm, blending acrobatics, avant-garde dance, physical comedy, music, song, video projections, and live DJing, resulting in a brand-new type of circus entertainment, Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley.
Saturday May 4
Honk, 7:30pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, San Anselmo Playhouse.
Geronimo Stilton Party, 11am, For ages 5+, Join us for adventures and cheesy fun of the wisecracking news mouse Geronimo Stilton of the Rodent’s Gazette for this party based on the popular “Geronimo Stilton Series”. We’ll have cheese, cookies, a craft and fun for all. Call 789-BOOK to register, Belvedere-Tiburon Library.
Family Science Day for “Sprouting Scientists”, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., MMWD and the California Academy of Sciences invite families to a special citizen science day to learn about Mt. Tamalpais and its plants and animals. Citizen science is the study of nature by the people who live it, which is YOU! There will be family-friendly, hands-on, science-based activities. The event is free, although the usual parking fee of $8.00/vehicle still applies.
Family Fun Day! , 1pm – 5pm, Come celebrate the community we love! All families, relatives, friends and neighbors are invited to join in the fun. Visit our LIVE Online Auction NOW, Mill Valley Nursery School, 51 Shell Road, Mill Valley.
Ocean Exploration Family Campout, 10:00am Saturday – 1:00pm Sunday A special overnight program featuring camping in our spectacular coastal meadow, Slide Ranch.
Tour of Novato and FunFair, a bicycling and walking fundraising event for the Novato public schools. Here’s your chance to have a great day with your family, get a little exercise, and fundraise to support our schools all at the same time! Last year this event raised more than $100,000 for our schools, and we think this year will be even better, Sherman Avenue in front of the Novato City Hall.
Celebrate with José-Luis Orozco, 11am, celebrate El Día de Los Niños, Singing and Dancing! Activities for kids! snacks, Novato Library, 473-2050.
It’s Time To Celebrate!, 3-5pm, Come and enjoy the music of Jose-Luis Orozco as we celebrate children. Singing and dancing, family potluck (bring food to share), books for children, pinata!, Point Reyes Station Library, 663-8375.
Share-a-Book, 11am-12pm, Practice reading skills by reading with a Canine Companion! Reserve a spot at the desk or by calling 506-3165. Drop-Ins welcome, however signups are encouraged, South Novato Library.
Barn Dance, 6pm, the Nicasio School Foundation will be hosting a Cajun Barn Dance to benefit Nicasio School.
Come Discover the EPIC World Right in Your Own Back Yard! 9-12pm, Home Depot.
It’s Time To Celebrate! 3-5pm, Come and enjoy the music of Jose-Luis Orozco as we celebrate children. Singing and dancing, family potluck (bring food to share), books for children, pinata! Point Reyes Station Library, 663-8375.
Cinco De Mayo Celebration, 10:00am to 6:00pm at Dolores Park.
Children’s Day Festival, 3-4p.m. In recognition of Japan’s national holiday to celebrate children, the JCCCNC presents our annual Children’s Day Festival in Japantown. There will be entertainment, food and hands-on craft activities for children.
Pier Crabbing, 10 am-Noon, Come learn about crabbing in the San Francisco Bay. We’ll teach you how to use the nets, discuss bait and regulations, and let you try your luck on the Fort Point pier. Reservations are required, 556-1693.
Cinderella, 2pm, age 8+, San Francisco Ballet
La Santa Cecilia + Dr. Loco’s Rockin’ Jalapeño Band, 1-3pm, playing a rich melange of mestizo and mulatto styles in celebration of the diverse origins of their Mexican-American musical heritage. Yerba Buena, San Francisco.
Norway Day Festival, Take a trip to Norway without ever leaving the Bay Area! Fort Mason Center, San Francisco.
Afternoon Art, Before there were books there were scrolls. Assemble and paint your own canvas scroll. 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.
Drop-In Science, Spring winds are blowing beautiful weather into the bay area this time of year. Build your own high-flying kite to catch a ride on the breezes while exploring the physics of flight! 10:30, Randall Museum.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 11am & 2pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Flowers & Friends, 1-2:30pm, Take a floriferous walk through the Garden to learn about the diversity of flowers and their pollinator friends. See pollinators on display, such as butterflies, bees, moths, and even a bat! Discover beautiful flower parts under magnifiers, smell the Garden’s wonderful varieties of flowering plants from around the world, and even taste edible flowers! RSVP gardenprograms@berkeley.edu, 510-643-2755, UC Botanical Garden, Berkeley.
Les 7 Doigts de la Main Circus, 2pm, blending acrobatics, avant-garde dance, physical comedy, music, song, video projections, and live DJing, resulting in a brand-new type of circus entertainment, Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Cotton Candy Express, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Sunday May 5, Cinco de Mayo
Honk, 2pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, San Anselmo Playhouse.
For Ever Spring, 9:30-12pm, Bring your family on this slow and moderate walk through the redwood forest on the Fern Creek Trail to Camp Alice Eastwood and back. Discover wild and endangered coho salmon, banana slug trails, the Native American uses of plants, ghost redwoods, and more. And learn about the families who came here by “gravity train” more than 100 years ago! Appropriate for ages 6 and above. No strollers please. Dress in layers, bring water and a light snack, and wear sturdy shoes with good treads. Reservations required, 388-2596.
Beginning Birding, 9:30-11:30 am, Spring is back! Welcome our avian migrants back to the Marin Headlands. Join volunteer Jane Haley for an easy walk along Rodeo Lagoon to discover birds that visit us in passing through, and those that come here to nest. Meet at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center. Bring binoculars, field guides. For ages 8 and up; For reservations, 331-1540.
Green Gulch Farm Sunday Children’s Program, After a short talk, the children leave the zendo to participate in their own special programs. Activities include crafts, seasonal projects on the farm and garden, yoga, and ritual. Green Gulch.
Family Fun at Green Gulch Farm, 1-3pm, We’ll provide the exploratory tools! You bring the curiosity and energy! Plus some water, snacks, and the usual thises and thats for an afternoon outdoors, RSVP appreciated but not required, 510-528-8550 x205 or email hikes@baynature.org
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, 1pm, from the Royal Ballet in London, 170 min. including intermission, Rafael Theatre San Rafael.
Nature for Kids at Mount Burdell, 10am – 1pm, CANCELED
Olompali State Park Family Walk, 10am, Families and beginning birders are welcome to join Wendy Dreskin as we explore the lovely Olompali State Park in Novato, stopping to look at the plants, birds and other wildlife in meadow and woodland habitats.
Disc Golf Clinic at Stafford Lake, 1 – 3pm, Join local pros who will teach kids (and parents too) this fun and exciting sport at our beautiful and nationally recognized disc golf course. Questions: Contact Supervising Ranger Mike Maraccini at MMaraccini@marincounty.org. Parking fee is waived for participants.
Windrush Farm’s Spring Lamb Day, 10am-4pm, spend a day knitting, spinning and visiting, 2263 Chileno Valley, Rd., Petaluma, (707) 775-3390.
Battery Townsely Open House, 12-4pm, was San Francisco’s most extensive—and most secret—World War II military fortification is reached via a moderately strenuous hike up the Coastal Trail, approximately one-half-mile north of the Rodeo Beach parking lot. 331-1540.
Anna Halprin’s Planetary Dance, 2-3pm, a powerful dance for peace among people and peace with the Earth, Yerba Buena, San Francisco.
SFBallet Company Class Viewing, Free, 11:30am, get a behind the scenes look at the SF Ballet’s world-class dancers at work, War Memorial Opera House.
Cinderella, 2pm, age 8+, San Francisco Ballet
Children’s Storytime and Family Walk, 10:30 AM, Featured book, “Cactus Hotel”, San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park.
Norway Day Festival, Take a trip to Norway without ever leaving the Bay Area! Fort Mason Center, San Francisco.
Family Fun Day, 11am-4pm, Celebrate Asian American Pacific Heritage Month at the Asian Art Museum with art making, tours, storytelling, and performances inspired by the life of the First Emperor and the Terracotta Warriors. Asian Art Museum.
Drop-In Art-Making: Papercuts and Portraits, 1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques. Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Off the Grid Picnic, 11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams. Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service. Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 2pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Les 7 Doigts de la Main Circus, 5pm, blending acrobatics, avant-garde dance, physical comedy, music, song, video projections, and live DJing, resulting in a brand-new type of circus entertainment, Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Cotton Candy Express, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
May 7
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, 6:30pm, from the Royal Ballet in London, 170 min. including intermission, Rafael Theatre San Rafael.
Wednesday, May 8
Private School Fair, 6:30-9pm, Free and open to the Public, the Southern Marin Mother’s Club is hosting its first private school fair. This fair will be predominantly for parents looking for kindergarten options for their children in Marin within the private schools, but also for parents wanting to switch schools or who are new to the area, St. Hilary’s, Gymnasium, Tiburon.
Share A Book- Read to a Therapy Dog, 3pm, Belvedere-Tiburon Library.
Thursday, May 9, Bike to Work Day
Mom-O-Rama, 10am-1pm, come celebrate your mom-ness with tasty samples and lots of mom-friendly treats, go to any Whole Foods.
Secret Gardens Scavenger Hunt, 1-4pm, Families with children 5-12, Pick up the Urbia Guide “Seeking California in a World of Plants” at the Garden Bookstore and go on a self-guided adventure experience at the Garden. Follow clues in a booklet that makes exploring the Garden more exciting than ever, and a special hidden box rewards those who complete the botanical adventure! Free with entry, San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park.
Friday May 10, New Moon, Annular Solar Eclipse
Luau, 5-9pm, music, jumpies, games, dunk tank and more, Mount Carmel Parking Lot, Downtown Mill Valley
Honk, 7:30pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, San Anselmo Playhouse.
Mother Daughter Dinner Party & Sleepover, Fri. 6:30 p.m. to Sat.10:00 a.m. Mothers and daughters will spend quality time at a Mad Hatter dinner party. We’ll play games, dance, make an art project, and more! Games and activities until 10:00 p.m. Breakfast served at 7:30 am, and then more fun and games until 10:00 a.m. Corte Madera Rec Center.
Butterflies & Blooms, walk amongst a wide variety of brightly colored daisies, sunflowers, zinnias, and more while free-flying butterflies flit from flower to flower, drinking nectar and getting covered in pollen. Conservatory of Flowers.
Saturday May 11
Origami Boat Race, 12-1:30pm, origami expert Jeremy Shafer will demonstrate origami boat-making. Then we’ll move outside to Old Mill Creek Park and send our boats merrily down the stream. Jeremy will emcee the race and library staff will be there to cheer you on. Wear old clothes and rubber boots – there will be mud! Adult supervision required in the park. Mill Valley Library.
Finding the Rhythm Around Us with Crosspulse, 11am, $5, Explore the rhythmic possibilities in the world around us. From bells and banjos to body music, boxes and balls, the Crosspulse Rhythm Duo makes music out of anything and everything, Bay Area Discovery Museum.
Let’s Celebrate Migratory Birds! 10:00 am, Stroll around Redwood Creek in search of migratory birds such as Wilson’s Warblers and Violet-green Swallows, then join Muir Woods’ Annual International Migratory Bird Day Celebration with family activities designed to explore the wonderful world of migratory birds, Muir Woods.
Marin Healthy Palooza, 10am-5pm, festival combining education and information designed to update and inform the community about prevention, managing chronic disease and overall wellness for everyone in a fun, low key, non pressure environment. Mill Valley Community Center.
May Madness, 12-6pm, Parade at 5:00pm, The longest running street rod show and parade in Northern California. Hundreds of hot rods, customs, classics and vintage autos will line the streets of Downtown San Rafael.
Marin Human Race, Race day features a fun and energizing run/walk/roll around a 5K course, that winds its way through the historic and scenic Marin County Civic Center lagoon and fairgrounds, kids races and activities, a dog walk, the Community Village fair and a pancake breakfast. Fairgrounds and Lagoon Park, San Rafael
Marin Country Mart Farmers’ Market, 9am-2pm, enjoy complimentary tea & cupcakes. From 10:30am-1pm at the Poppy Store, your child can create a beautiful potted violets. Marin Country Mart.
Make Mom Proud At Creekside Park, 9am-12pm, Help us get a head start on Mothers’ Day this Saturday morning! Make mom proud by pulling out invasive species to make space for new seedlings to grow in Mother Earth. Restored wetlands offer places for wildlife species to build their nests, safe havens for fish to hatch their eggs, and beautiful nature for mothers and children to enjoy. Come out and celebrate all our mothers with Save The Bay!
Honk, 7:30pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, San Anselmo Playhouse.
Halibut Derby at Paradise Park, 9am – 3pm, Join rangers for this annual fishing contest! Prizes awarded for biggest and most halibut caught. A limited number of fishing poles and bait will be provided first-come, first-serve to beginner anglers thanks to the California Department of Fish and Game. Fishing license is required when fishing from the shore, not from the pier. Contact CLopez@marincounty.org. There is a $10 parking fee. Paradise Park, 3450 Paradise Park, Tiburon.
Mother’s Day BBQ, 11am-3pm, enjoy a delicious lunch of BBQ chicken or vegetarian quiche, beans, breads and dessert—all while sitting in the beautiful, natural surroundings of the preserve. There are ponds and hiking trails to explore and craft activities will be set up for children, ickets are $25 for adults and $12 for children under 12. Reservations are required by May 5, 2013. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 453-2216, Martin Griffin Preserve, 4900 Shoreline Highway 1, Stinson Beach.
Healthy Parks, Healthy People: Hiking for Heartbeats! 10-11:30 am, bring Mom along for a scenic hike along the Lands End Coastal Trail as we celebrate Mother Earth. Meet the rangers at the Lands End Lookout Parking Lot. Then, after some quick stretches, we’ll set off on our Mother’s Day hiking adventure, concluding the hike at Mile Rock Overlook. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and don’t mind getting a little dirty. Don’t forget your water bottles! Reservations required; 561-4323.
Guided Wildflower Walk, Noon-12:45pm, The native wildflowers at Lands End are blooming and happy–thanks to the efforts of volunteers and our Park Stewardship team! Join staff on a guided tour of this magnificent springtime display, and learn fascinating facts about the remarkable plants of the coastal dune scrub habitat. All ages welcome! Meet at the main Lands End trailhead.
Muir Beach Cleanup, 9:30-11:30am.
Living History Day, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park. 3325 Adobe Road, 707-762-4871.
Cinderella, 2pm & 8pm, age 8+, San Francisco Ballet
Fiddlin’, 11am, Both fun and educational, Family Matinees provide a window into the exciting world of live jazz. Each one-hour matinee features live performance, audience participation, Q&A and amazing music. Enjoyed individually or as a series, these Family Matinees will change the way you hear jazz.
Asian Improv Arts, 1-3pm, Yerba Buena, San Francisco.
Afternoon Art, On mother’s day, show your mother you love her with a hand-made pop-up card. 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.
Drop-In Science, Music is often considered to be a fine art, but it also involves complicated science concepts. Blend science and art by making a musical instrument to use to entertain and teach others. 10:30, Randall Museum.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 2pm & 4:30pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Uncle Jer’s Traveling Bee Show, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Sunday May 12, Mother’s Day
Honk, 2pm, the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors, San Anselmo Playhouse.
Marine Science Sunday: Before They’re Gone: Save the Hawaiian Monk Seal, 10am-5pm, The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito.
Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast, 9am to 1pm, $10.00 adults/$5.00 kids. West Point Inn, Mill Valley.
Mother’s Day Mt Tam Hike and BBQ at the Asbo’s, 10:30am, join us for a great hike on nearby Mt. Tamalpais and BBQ, RSVP required, hersson@ aol.com – Phone 415-775-9328.
Taiwan in the Gardens, 1-2:30pm, dance originating from various ethnic cultures in Taiwan, including its aboriginal tribes, Yerba Buena, San Francisco.
Drop-In Art-Making: Papercuts and Portraits, 1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques. Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Preschool Gallery Hour with Hipwaders, 10-11:30am, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Family Gallery Tour, 11:30am–12:15pm, Experience the mash-up of grand portraiture, urban youth culture, and traditional Judaica objects in this interactive tour of Kehinde Wiley | The World Stage: Israel designed for families with children up to age ten. With hands-on experiential activities, Kehinde’s vibrant journey will come to life, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Off the Grid Picnic, 11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams. Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service. Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.
Cinderella, 2pm, age 8+, San Francisco Ballet
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 11am, 2pm & 4:30pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Uncle Jer’s Traveling Bee Show, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Tuesday, May 14
Sketching Landscapes with John Muir Laws, 1-11:30am, Master the five-minute landscape as you develop your plein-aire toolkit. Learn how to show depth in your landscapes (or any drawing). Discover tricks to help you quickly draw forests without getting sick of drawing trees. Explore simple guidelines to enhance your compositions. Experience the simplicity of the four value system, Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary, Tiburon.
Wednesday, May 15
Intrigued by the idea of Homeschooling? 7-9:30pm, RSVP to 380-8448, Mill Valley Community Center.
Friday, May 17
Food Revolution Day. 3:15-4:45pm, Whole Foods on Miller Ave, Mill Valley.
Saturday May 18
Water Safety Day, 12:30-3:30pm, FREE for the Entire Family, Mill Valley Community Center.
Pixie Park Spring Fair, 9am – 2pm, enjoy…Rides, Petting zoo, Obstacle courses, Prize games, Plus family entertainment, delicious food, tasty drinks, and much, much more! Marin Art and Garden Center, Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.
Field & Family Wildflower Walk, 10:30am-1:30pm, Spring is in bloom! Come join an experienced YMCA naturalist to explore all the beauty that spring has to offer here in the Marin Headlands. Moderate to Strenuous hike 3-5 miles. Bring your own bagged lunch. Meet at Marin Headlands Visitor Center restrooms, 10:30 am. Pre-registration required, 331 9622 or email doyobio@ymcasf.org. $10/adult , $5/child.
Trips for Kids Re-cyclery HUGE Blow-Out Sale, offering huge discounts on selected items at our Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop in San Rafael and at our Warehouse in San Rafael. Bike frames, forks, wheels, tires, helmets, bike racks, frame pumps, floor pumps, lights, locks, bar tape, clothes, cycling shoes, and lots more will be on sale at bargain prices.
Endangered Species Weekend, times and places vary.
Afternoon Art, Transform a small plain box into a beautiful keepsake perfect for holding jewelry or other precious items. 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.
Drop-In Science, You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to build a rocket! Build a paper rocket to launch high above San Francisco with an air powered rocket launcher. 10:30, Randall Museum.
Asian Heritage Street Celebration, 11am-6pm, Explore the Asian Museum for free during this annual program held during the Asian Heritage Street Celebration outside the museum. Asian Art Museum.
Makers Faire, 10am-8pm, A family-friendly festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement, San Mateo County Event Center.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 11am, 2pm & 4:30pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Maker Faire showcases the amazing work of all kinds and ages of makers—anyone who is embracing the do-it-yourself (or do-it-together) spirit and wants to share their accomplishments with an appreciative audience. We encourage you to join the fun and enter a project to exhibit.
Himalayan Fair, Live Oak Park in Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, The Blue Fairy, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Sunday, May 19
Sunday Special: ‘Til Dawn a capella Concert, 11am, Enjoy the sweet and energetic sounds of Youth in Arts’ a capella ensemble ‘Til Dawn. Kids and families will be inspired by the group’s focus on positive, upbeat, songs and youthful dedication to their craft. Don’t miss this homegrown Bay Area treasure! Mill Valley Library.
Culinary Hike at Mount Burdell, 10am – 1pm, Get your hiking shoes on and your taste buds ready. Ranger Charlie Schonwasser and Native Foods Chef, John Farais, lead this culinary hike on beautiful Mount Burdell. Learn the many ways local Native Americans used the abundant native plants of this area for food, medicine and other everyday needs. Our destination is Pierre Joske Grove where we will rest and enjoy a shared meal. Please bring a cold dish to share and an optional recipe card to exchange with others. Meet at the gate on San Andreas Dr in Novato.
Maifest, 9am-3pm, A polka band, folk and popular group dances in traditional dress, a menu of authentic German/Austrian foods, and of course, excellent beers and other drinks, complete a fun-filled day that is sehr gemütlich for all ages. Tourist Club, Mill Valley.
Mountain Play, “The Sound of Music“, Don’t miss one of the most popular musicals of all time based on the true story of the Trapp Family Singers. All shows start at 2:00pm. Get your tickets, grab a picnic and get ready to be enchanted. For more information call 383-1100.
Annual Heritage Day, The day will feature guided walks to learn about Olompali’s birds, plants, and archaeology, as well as talks by experts who will discuss the park’s historical structures and the Burdell Victorian Garden. Olompali State Historic Park.
Tour de California, route goes from San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito (not on Bridgeway but on Hwy 1), Stinson, Point Reyes National Seashore, Bodega Bay, Occidental, and what is guaranteed to a crown in Santa Rosa
Learn to Ride a Skateboard!, 11am – 1pm, Join us at the McInnis Skate Park where rangers will offer tips and techniques for beginners and ways to attack features that build confidence and skill. This event is geared towards the newbie and those looking to cross over from other board sports, but aren’t quite sure how to start. Make sure to bring your board, helmet and pads. Contact ACraig@marincounty.org. McInnis Skate Park, 310 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael.
Endangered Species Weekend, times and places vary.
Children’s Storytime and Family Walk, 10:30 AM, Featured book, “Cactus Hotel”, San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park.
Drop-In Art-Making: Papercuts and Portraits, 1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques. Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Off the Grid Picnic, 11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams. Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service. Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.
Makers Faire, 10am-6pm, A family-friendly festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement, San Mateo County Event Center.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, 11am, 2pm & 4:30pm, Freight & Salvage, Berkeley.
Children’s Fairyland, Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, The Blue Fairy, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Maker Faire showcases the amazing work of all kinds and ages of makers—anyone who is embracing the do-it-yourself (or do-it-together) spirit and wants to share their accomplishments with an appreciative audience. We encourage you to join the fun and enter a project to exhibit.
Himalayan Fair, Live Oak Park in Berkeley.
Monday May, 20
Pixar Night at AT&T Park, 7:15pm, pre-game party with food and music, meet the stars of “Monster’s University” Mike Wazowski and Sulley.
Thursday May, 23
Safety Day at Olive School, meet California Highway Patrol, Novato Police Department and the Novato Fire District, and meet the pilot of a CHP Helicopter who will land on our grassy field between 10:30 and 12:00, Novato.
Bottle Cap and Dog Tag Jewelry (for 6th-12th graders), 4 – 5:30pm, Novato Library
Kid’s Ocean Day Adopt-a-Beach Program, school children from Marin and San Francisco Counties will converge on Ocean Beach to clean up trash, and create aerial art to share their message of conservation with the world. To volunteer, contact Wendy Dalia, Education Director at the Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary and SF Kids’ Adopt-a-Beach Coordinator, at wdalia@audubon.org.
Friday, May 24
Kiddo! Carnival, 4-10pm, 17 rides for all ages, plus food and games. The littlest ones in your family will love the red Baron Berry-Go-Round and the Tune Train, while your teenagers will be thrilled with the Sizzler, Zipper, the Century Wheel and new this year, the Typhoon. Advance discounted ticket books will be available in the Kiddo! office Monday through Thursday, May 20-23, 9am-4pm, and Friday 9-noon or until we sell out. Advance books are $20 and $30 once the Carnival begins, Mill Valley Middle School.
Marin Greek Festival, 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-10pm, the weekend festival offers Greek food, music, dancing, cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities, church tours, Byzantine chanting and folk dance lessons and performances, Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Christian Church, 1110 Highland Drive, Novato; 883-1998, $5-$6, free children 12 and under.
Saturday, May 25, Full Moon, Penumbral Lunar Eclipse
Kiddo! Carnival, 12-10pm, , 17 rides for all ages, plus food and games. The littlest ones in your family will love the red Baron Berry-Go-Round and the Tune Train, while your teenagers will be thrilled with the Sizzler, Zipper, the Century Wheel and new this year, the Typhoon. Advance discounted ticket books will be available in the Kiddo! office Monday through Thursday, May 20-23, 9am-4pm, and Friday 9-noon or until we sell out. Advance books are $20 and $30 once the Carnival begins, Mill Valley Middle School.
Salmon Release, 10am-2pm, come join the fun as we release 2000 young salmon into the San Francisco Bay, Blackie’s Pasture, Tiburon.
Skate Jam, 12 – 3pm, The annual McInnis Park Skateboard Competition is on again for all ages and abilities! There will be good food, music, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Registration begins at 11am and the competition kicks off at 12pm. Prizes are awarded by age group: 5-9, 10-12, 13-15 and 16 and over. Contact ACraig@marincounty.org. McInnis Skate Park, 310 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael.
National Geographic Kids Club, 11am-noon in the Macy’s Wing, Northgate, San Rafael.
Taste of Town Center, 12-2pm, live music, face painting, free samples. and more, The Town Center, Corte Madera.
Marin Greek Festival, 11am-10pm, the weekend festival offers Greek food, music, dancing, cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities, church tours, Byzantine chanting and folk dance lessons and performances, Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Christian Church, 1110 Highland Drive, Novato; 883-1998, $5-$6, free children 12 and under.
Afternoon Art,Dig into our stamps and create a unique postage stamp collage! 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.
Drop-In Science, What time is it? It’s time to get a sundial! Understand how ancient peoples were able to tell and keep track of the time without modern technology. 10:30, Randall Museum.
Children’s Fairyland, The Elves & The Shoemaker, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Dana Smith, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Sunday, May 26
Kiddo! Carnival, 12-10pm, , 17 rides for all ages, plus food and games. The littlest ones in your family will love the red Baron Berry-Go-Round and the Tune Train, while your teenagers will be thrilled with the Sizzler, Zipper, the Century Wheel and new this year, the Typhoon. Advance discounted ticket books will be available in the Kiddo! office Monday through Thursday, May 20-23, 9am-4pm, and Friday 9-noon or until we sell out. Advance books are $20 and $30 once the Carnival begins, Mill Valley Middle School.
Caledonia Street Festival, 11am- 6pm, “Welcome to the America’s Cup,” highlights include craft and art booths, live music entertainment and street performers. Sausalito.
Mill Valley History Walk, take a tour of the estate of Joseph Eastland, founder of the town of Mill Valley and stop at century old mansions of pioneer families, The Outdoor Art Club, Mill Valley
Mountain Play, “The Sound of Music“, Don’t miss one of the most popular movie musicals of all time based on the true story of the Trapp Family Singers. All shows start at 2:00pm. Get your tickets, grab a picnic and get ready to be enchanted. For more information call 383-1100.
Shorts in Brief: Quality Films for Young Children, 11am, includes The Gruffalo’s Child, Balloon Moon and Keenan at Sea, Twist and Shout (with a visit to Abbey Road), Ernesto, B/W Races, and Aardman Animation uses a big beach to tell a tiny tale in the sand, Rafael Theatre, San Rafael.
Marin Greek Festival, 11am-10pm, the weekend festival offers Greek food, music, dancing, cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities, church tours, Byzantine chanting and folk dance lessons and performances, Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Christian Church, 1110 Highland Drive, Novato; 883-1998, $5-$6, free children 12 and under.
Larkspur Flower & Food Festival, 11 am to 6 pm, celebrate the beginning of Summer at the Bay Area’s longest running festival of flowers and food.
Drop-In Art-Making: Papercuts and Portraits, 1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques. Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art, Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Off the Grid Picnic, 11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams. Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service. Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.
Children’s Fairyland, The Elves & The Shoemaker, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Dana Smith, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.
Monday, May 27, Memorial Day
Mill Valley Memorial Day Parade, “Let the Good Times Roll,” honoring Safe Routes to School, enjoy the parade as it winds through downtown Mill Valley to celebrate Memorial Day. The Parade starts at 10:30 at Old Mill School and ends at Tam High.
Kiddo! Carnival, 12-5pm, 17 rides for all ages, plus food and games. The littlest ones in your family will love the red Baron Berry-Go-Round and the Tune Train, while your teenagers will be thrilled with the Sizzler, Zipper, the Century Wheel and new this year, the Typhoon. Advance discounted ticket books will be available in the Kiddo! office Monday through Thursday, May 20-23, 9am-4pm, and Friday 9-noon or until we sell out. Advance books are $20 and $30 once the Carnival begins, Mill Valley Middle School.
Nature for Kids at Indian Tree, 10am – 1pm, We will head up the hill and visit several different forest habitats. We’ll go through one area that is completely shaded by bay trees, then we’ll walk up an oak covered hill, and finally end up in a little grove of redwoods. Along the way we’ll talk about these different habitats and the different kinds of animals that live in each place. We request that no animals (except service animals) attend. Heavy rain may cancel. If questionable weather, call (415) 893-9527, Meet at the trailhead on Vineyard Rd in Novato.
Nocturnal Animal Day, 10am-5pm, What’s makes an animal nocturnal? And how are they different than diurnal animals? This Memorial Day, learn about nocturnal animals during our fun-filled family event. Get up close to nocturnal animals and attend special programming. Free with the cost of admission. CuriOdyssey, 1651 Coyote Point Dr., San Mateo, (650) 342-7755.
Museum Mondays for Little Ones, 10am–12noon, Enjoy stories, movement games, arts and craft activities, and a movie. Activities are designed for children ages 1–5 and their caregivers. Schultz Museum.
Tuesday, May 28
Pajama Rama! 6-7pm, A family program of bedtime stories & songs. Come in your pajamas and slippers! Bring your favorite stuffy! Fairfax Library.
Thursday, May 30
Blackmahal, 12:30-1:30pm, Part P-funk, part Punjabi-roots, BlacKMahal is a San Francisco-based live music experience complete with drums, DJs, horns, hip-hop MCs, and the godfather of Punjabi-American music – Ustad Lal Singh Bhatti. BlackMahal is steeped in Old California, a Punjabi-American experience that started in the 1890s when the first Punjabi-Americans settled in the Great West and forged a new identity combining elements of Mexican and African-American influence. Yerba Buena, San Francisco.
Friday, May 31
McNears Beach and Pool Party, 4 – 6pm, Join us at McNears Beach Park to start the Memorial Day weekend for a “welcome to summer” beach party! There will be food available, music, swimming, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Free parking and pool use! Questions: Contact Ranger DSauter@marincounty.org. McNears Beach Park, 201 Cantera Way, San Rafael.
Jazz & Blues by the Bay, 6:30pm-8pm, Big Cat Tolefree & the Hipnotics, Gabrielson Park, Sausalito.
