St. Patrick’s Day may be next week, but it’s looking like the luck of the Irish is all around this weekend. Sprinkle in some arts and music, theater performances and what a well-rounded cultural weekend ahead! And just when you thought you had seen everything, go catch some elephants walking down the street. Seriously! Check out eight of the great events happening in and around your neck of the woods this weekend.

As Easter and Mother’s Day quickly draw near, you’re facing the age-old “what to give to Grandma/Grandpa/Aunts/Uncles and various other relatives” quandary. But really, how many “#1 Grandma” mugs can a cupboard hold?  You know they truly treasure the handmade gifts from the heart (and little hands) than a trinket from the mall.  But before you pull out the playdough, paints and glitter, consider a trip to one of these Create-Your-Own Studios where kids can make blown glass ornaments, a fused glass dish, a hand painted bowl, silver or beaded jewelry, and more.  Not only will you wow the crowds, but mom doesn’t have to worry about cleaning paint off the furniture or getting glitter out of the rug!

The Vernal Equinox is right around the corner and I’m sure most of us are welcoming spring with open arms. With the warmer weather suddenly upon us, we're just itching to get back outside and enjoy nature. And spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and show children the magical workings of Mother Nature as flowers bloom and plants grow. Check out these events and activities for kids around the Island to celebrate the coming of warmer weather, sprouting flowers and crisp (snow-free) air!

Forget “There’s no place like home.”  The mom mantra now reads, “It’s two weeks ‘til Spring!  It’s two weeks ‘til Spring!” Spend the last of the nasty weather this weekend getting a jump start on the coming seasons by imagining you are at a summer folk festival, or step dancing in Ireland, or hunting wild animals at the circus. The “tamer crowd” can celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday, enjoy a carnival atmosphere at JCC Metrowest, or learn something new at our fabulous museums. Close your eyes, click your heels, and before you know it, those gloves, mittens, hats and snowpants’ll be packed away!