Family Friendly Weekend Events

Glad you clicked on our new Grab & Go Kids Planner! Each week, we'll give you the info on the five best family activities or events for the week.

You're time-pressed enough, so we're happy to do the research and find the best things to do and places to go, both locally and within reasonable striking distance.

Look for the kids’ planner each Wednesday, and help us build the planner with your own suggestions and tips — just add them to the comment box. Even if you disagree with our picks, let us know. We want to hear from you!

With possible rain on the weekend forecast you always need a few indoor activities to burn off the kids’ energy. Why not take a trip over to Pump It Up in Cotati? Jumpers, slides, climbing, and more fun can be found at this indoor bounce center. You can have a party there or just stop by for some fun by the hour. Check them out at www.pumpitupparty.com for more information.

• Another great thing to do on a rainy weekend is to visit the . Kids of all ages and adults can benefit from reading. Sure I write for an online publication, but I love to curl up with a good book and my daughter in my lap. Also at the library on Saturday you can enjoy an art exhibit from noon to 3 p.m. and after 3:30 p.m. kids can practice reading to a faithful friend with the Readers of the Pack Program.
•  Sunday looks great for mountain biking or a hike at Annadale State Park in Santa Rosa. The rain should be light on Friday and Saturday with the sun coming out on Sunday, which means some good mud. Grab the kids and some backpack lunches and head out for some good mud fun and exercise! If you have little ones or just prefer an easier ride, the path around nearby Spring Lake is a smooth trek and there are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic lunch.
• Enjoy the Winter Safari at Safari West. Take the time to get up and personal with majestic animals in a natural setting. It's "the spirit of Africa in the heart of the Wine Country." They have a few types of safari adventures available including overnight stays and have a nice café to dine at. This is a wonderful opportunity to see animals in a more natural environment without fighting the crowds of a theme park or zoo. Visit www.safariwest.com for more information.
• Free Kid’s Green Activity time is being hosted this Sunday at Whole Foods in Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. Running from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., this is an easy and fun craft time using recycled materials. This is an excellent teaching opportunity to help explain recycling. 

‘Every time I am at home and I am getting on my parent’s nerves they wish I were at camp. And every time I’m at camp and nothing’s bothering them, they miss me.’

            ~Ashley, age 12