It’s October and the weeks are starting to fill with creepy crawlies and spooky experiences… we’ve got your list of where you need to be for Fall family fun this week.
Spiders – Preschool Community Program
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Preschoolers can complete nature-themed literature activities, crafts and hikes while using their imaginations. Meet at the Adventure Center.
Lazy 5 Ranch Fall Festival
Lazy 5 Ranch
Try the pumpkin slingshot, and let the kids play in the giant corn box and straw castle. Visit the pumpkin patch, and for an additional cost, enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride through the farm to feed the animals, such as giraffes, zebras and bison. Remember, Lazy 5 Ranch does not accept credit cards.
Family Storytime: Pajama Storytime
Matthews Library
Bring the whole family out to enjoy stories, songs, and movement activities, and wear your pajamas! Milk and cookies will be served.
Night at the IMAX: Journey to the South Pacific
Discovery Place Science
Take a breathtaking adventure to the tropical islands of West Papau in this one-night-only showing of Journey to the South Pacific in IMAX® at Discovery Place Science. Narrated by Cate Blanchett, this mesmerizing journey of discovery will highlight the importance of the ocean on planet Earth.
Dakota and Friends
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
Pet a ‘baby T-Rex’ or maybe watch an egg being hatched. Participate in the reading of “Reading, Writing and Roaring” where kids can read aloud to dinosaurs, then take ‘a ride’.
Special Needs Jump Time
Sky High Sports
On the first Tuesday of every month, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of our guests. During special jump sessions, one parent or therapist is admitted free per paying jumper. Only parents and legal guardians can sign waivers for jumpers younger than 18.
Nature Detectives: Leaf Kitchen
Latta Nature Center
Explore nature through stories, crafts and activities related to the changing leaves.
Little STREAM’ers: Magnet Magic
Mooresville Public Library
Have fun creating a magnetic car while learning about magnets and magnetic force.
14th Annual Blues and Jazz Festival Kickoff – Baxter Village
Springmaid Park in Baxter Village
Celebrate the roots of modern music with infectious rhythms, soulful sounds and high-energy performances.
PlayPlay! Theatre: Psshh
Levine Jewish Community Center
The Levine JCC is thrilled to present three shows this season, “Psshh,” “Wee” and “Shalom.” Shows recommended for the very young. Check website for showtimes.
USNWC Fall Festival
U.S. National Whitewater Center
This year’s festival features cider sampling and the entertaining BYOB (Build Your Own Boat) Competition. Take part in The Scrambler Obstacle Trail Race, a yoga practice under the trees or Neptune’s Revenge, the USNWC’s new nighttime boatercross showdown, all while enjoying live music.
Downtown Mooresville Wiener Race
The annual wiener race raises money for local pet rescue groups. Races will be held for puppy, junior, adult and senior divisions. There are also “Cutest” and “Best Dressed” categories.
Stories in 2 Languages: Spanish
Plaza Midwood Library
Engage your child with stories, songs, and activities in English and Spanish. This program is intended for both Spanish speaking and English speaking families.
Spooky Science Experiments
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
Discover some fun nature science experiments. Halloween will be right around the corner; embrace your inner mad scientist.
Guided Bird Walk
Discovery Place Nature
Take a guided walk around the museum grounds and part of Freedom Park with a naturalist as you learn about birds that are found around Charlotte.
18th Annual All American Dog Show
Robbins Park
Hundreds of animal lovers and their dogs enjoy this event each year. In addition to fun contests, visitors are able to enjoy vendor tents, concessions and children’s activities.
Grandparent’s Weekend at Patterson Farm
Patterson Farm
Grandparents receive free admission this weekend, pick a pumpkin, visit the animals, enjoy seasonal treats and more.
Have No Fear
McDowell Nature Center
Scared of snakes? Bugged out by bugs? Terrified of turtles? Have no fear – these animals are not out to get you! Learn why these animals should be revered instead of feared. Registration required.
Keep on the Radar
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
NC Transportation Museum
Community School of the Arts
*All images sourced from Facebook pages or website of events listed, or free sources.