5 Things for Families

Dancing, a movie, moon bounces, crafts, and girls playing rock ‘n’ roll. Who could ask for more? Jerks, that’s who.

August 13, 2014; 6:00 AM • by Valerie Catrow

1. Move With Me

Kids head back to school/preschool in just a few weeks which means two things 1) it’s time they dip their little toes back into the Somewhat Structured Activity Pond and 2) you’re probably running out of things to do. Join Miss Sarah Ruppel of the Richmond Ballet for a “creative and energetic movement time” for your own tiny dancers. Probable added bonus: all that wiggling could lead to decent naps that afternoon.

Wednesday, August 13th • 10:00 AM
Cartwheels & Coffee, 2820 W. Cary Street
Free with admission ($5 for kids one and older; $4 for each additional child; kids under one are free)

2. Movies in the Park: The Nut Job

Bring your blankets, chairs, and preferred snacks for an evening spent watching The Nut Job–which I hear involves a selfish squirrel (is there any other kind?) with a plot to rob the neighborhood nut shop. Predictable behavior for a squirrel, but the movie should make for some nice family time.

Friday, August 15th • 8:00 — 10:30 PM
Blackwell Community Center, 1450 Maury Street
Free

3. Day of Play

This sounds amazing: moon bounces, a petting zoo, John Deere toys to play on, obstacle courses, and free hot dogs and hamburgers. I know, right?!

Saturday, August 16th • 9:00 AM — 1:00 PM
James River Equipment, 11053 Leadbetter Road (in Ashland)
Free (just please make sure to register!)

4. Stories at the Museum: Fun Virginia Tales

The Virginia Historical Society is undergoing some big renovations this summer, but their fortnightly Stories at the Museum event is still going strong. Your kids will love the history-related storytime, followed by a fun make-and-take craft activity. This week’s theme is “Fun Virginia Tales.”

Saturday, August 16th • 11:00 AM — 12:00 PM
- Virginia Historical Society, 428 N. Boulevard
Free

5. 4th Annual Girls Rock! RVA Showcase

Come celebrate the hard work of the Girls Rock! RVA bands as they perform original songs they wrote this past week during the organization’s annual musical empowerment camp. Yes, that’s right: within the span of a week, the kids form bands, write songs, rehearse those songs, and then perform them for us to enjoy. Things like this make Richmond fantastic.