Top 5 Weekend Events For Families: Picasso Exhibit, Henrico Pet Expo & More

With a slight taste of spring this past week (in February, no less) and a nice weekend on tap, it’s time to get out of the house and do something fun with the family. Wondering what to do? Corral the kiddos and enjoy some fun events, including the Henrico Pet Expo, two theatrical performances, a […]

February 18, 2011; 11:07 AM • by Carissa Garabedian

Our family events contributor Carissa Garabedian has the full rundown of all the great family-friendly activities this weekend.

For an amazing list of dozens more, be sure to check out Carissa’s award-winning website, Macaroni Kid of Richmond.

1. Jack and the Wonder Beans! An Applachian Musical

Saturday, February 19

All is well for Jack and his Mam. They have their home roof, a patch of land, and a cow. In hard times no one wants to buy a cow “dry as a hat.” Jack trades his bossy to a Gypsy for “seeds.” And Jack is in for trouble. His adventures with the Giant Woman and her husband teach him that “the simple life is right for Jack.” Audience participation is invoked in the nick of time!

Who: All
When: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Twin Hickory Library
How: Just go!
Cost: FREE

2. Theatre IV Presents “The Big Friendly Giant”

Friday, February 18 through Sunday, March 6

Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant (24 feet tall!) and a little orphan named Sophie are brought to life in this fantastical and faithful adaptation. The BFG and Sophie team up to save the children of England, assisted by the Queen of England and the Heads of the Army and Airforce with their helicopters. Kids big and small will delight in this adaptation of Dahl’s modern fairy tale in which the orphan Sophie and her newfound friend The BFG demonstrate that heroes come in all sizes.

Who: Ages 3+
When: 11:00 AM (time changes)
Where: Empire Theatre
How: www.theatreivrichmond.org
Cost: $14- $18

3. Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris

Saturday, February 19

“Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris” is the one of the largest and biggest exhibitions to come to the VMFA, in honor of the museum’s 75th anniversary. Drawn from the collection of the Musée National Picasso in Paris, the largest and most significant repository of the artist’s work in the world, this exhibition represents works produced during every major artistic period of Pablo Picasso’s eight-decade career. It includes 176 works from Picasso’s personal collection – art that he kept for himself with the purpose of shaping his own legacy.

Who: All
When: Begins Saturday, February 19
Where: Virginia Museum Of Fine Arts
How: Just go!
Cost: Price: $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, FREE for VMFA members and kids 6 and under
More info: www.vmfa.org

4. Henrico Humane Society Pet Expo

Saturday, February 19

The 12th Annual Pet Expo is a unique indoor event where you can bring your pet to enjoy a day of fun and excitement with the whole family! All proceeds benefit Henrico Humane Society and help homeless animals in the community! Over 75 exhibitors that sell animal-related goods and services will be on hand, plus many local animal rescue groups.

Who: All
When: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Showplace Exhibition Center, 3000 Mechanicsville Turnpike
How: Just go!
Cost: Admission $10 for adults, $5 for children 2-12 and free for children 2 and under

5. Richmond Symphony: Green Eggs and Ham

Saturday, February 19

Do YOU like green eggs and ham? This fully orchestrated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved children’s classic, cleverly composed by Robert Kapilow and featuring the unstoppable Same-I-Am, is a feast for the ears! Arrive early for a Pre-Concert Festival, featuring musically-themed activities and an instrument petting zoo, at 10:00 a.m. Free with your ticket! Conducted by Erin R. Freeman, with Guest Artist Michael Boudewyns.

Who: All
When: 11:00 AM
Where: Carpenter Theatre
How: Tickets are available at the Carpenter Theatre or by calling 800-745-3000
Cost: $17
More info: http://www.richmondcenterstage.com/content/richmond-symphony-lollipops-green-eggs-and-ham