Free and Fun Things for Kids and Families to Do in Boston - MLK Weekend, 1/14 to 1/16

1/11/12 - By Audrey Trieschman

The three-day MLK weekend that comes so early in the year is always a welcome treat, and Boston offers plenty for kids and families to do. In addition to special concerts, tributes, open houses and workshops that all pay tribute to Dr. King (highlighted in our separate post), families can visit a model train and toy hobby show, take in a SteveSongs concert, celebrate the Chinese New Year at the zoo, and more.

We’ve also launched our series focusing on Summer Camps 2012 with a collection of camp fairs taking place in the next few months. And if you have a favorite camp you’d like us to consider for inclusion in our camp roundups, please let me know.

Enjoy!

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Magic by Scott Jameson - Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline
Saturday, 1/14

Umbrellas are plucked from thin air, a drawing comes to life, basketballs are spun and juggled, and a member of the audience unlocks telekinetic abilities during magician and juggler Scott Jameson’s performance that gets audiences perched on the edge of their seats. Adults $9.75; Children $7.75


Model Train and Toy Hobby Show - Buker School, Wenham
Saturday, 1/14

Wenham Museum’s Annual Hobby Show features traditional model train and toy collectibles, equipment and memorabilia to buy or swap. Get tips and tricks on buying model train equipment and setting up your very own layout from museum volunteer engineers.

Show your ticket at the museum for half-price admission to see a special model train layout created by NMRA Hub Division Modular Railroad Group on display this weekend only. (The Buker School is within walking distance or a short drive from the museum.) Adults $5, Children 6-14 $2, Family Max $12


SteveSongs in Concert - Parker Damon Building Cafetorium, Acton
Saturday, 1/14

With his quirky lyrics and acoustic instrumentals, Steve Roslonek - winner of two Parent’s Choice GOLD Awards - entertains listeners of all ages.

Tickets are available at Roche Bros (Acton), Westford Toy Shop (Westford), Barefoot Books (Concord), Buttons and Bows (Acton), Acton Children’s School (Acton) and online at Steve’s website. Proceeds to benefit The Acton Children’s School. In advance $10; At the door $15


Celebrate Chinese New Year! - Franklin Park Zoo, Boston
Saturday, 1/14

In anticipation of the Chinese New Year, Franklin Park Zoo presents a day of dance, arts and crafts, learning and fun to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Throughout the day, visitors can watch traditional dances, including a lion dance, listen to music and story telling, and learn more about Chinese culture through craft activities. Free with admission


Get Out & Play Family Ski Tour - Blue Hills Ski Area, Canton
Sunday, 1/15

Radio Disney is rocking’ it both inside and outside the lodge with winter games, music, dancing, and prizes. Free


The History of Tap: Moments in Time - John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston
Monday, 1/16

Join the Cambridge Youth Dance Program and the Boston Tap Company as they explore the history, rhythm, and multicultural expression of tap, a dance that transcends time and cultures.

Reservations required; call or register via the website. Free


The Regent Theatre in Arlington offers two kid-friendly shows this weekend:

Bob the Magic Guy
Saturday, 1/14        

Bob the Magic Guy presents Magic For Smart People, during which he weaves stories and slapstick humor around clever magic tricks. Adults $10; Children $8

The Dragon King
Sunday, 1/15

The Tanglewood Marionettes present the underwater fantasy based on a Chinese folk tale about a wise Grandmother who ventures to the bottom of the sea in search of the Dragon King. Adults $5; Children $3