Summer 2017 Camp Fairs for Boston Area Kids and Families

Ready or not, it's February, and camp registration is in full swing. (If you're not ready, you are in good company—we're still looking for our kids' snow boots.) Attending a large camp fair is a great way to gather information about a variety of local day camps, sleepaway camps, and other summer enrichment opportunities in a short amount of time. We've rounded up some major upcoming fairs and open houses in and around Boston to get you started on your search for the right summer program for your child.

We are also busy updating our Summer and Vacation Camps Guide, so you may want to check it out as you consider the different options for your kids' summer fun in the coming months.

February Break Camps for NJ Kids

Just when you thought everyone was back on track from winter break-- bam! February break sneaks upon us. While some New Jersey schools are closed the Monday of President’s Day only, others have four day weekends or even that whole week off. If you’re in need of child care during the break, or just something to occupy the kiddos, don’t fear. Our list of February break camps is here. February breakers can spend their time off exploring nature, playing their favorite sports, learning science and even tubing down mountains. Check out these drop-off camps offered for various portions of February break.

Shastye Art and Play Space for Kids Opens in Astoria

A new indoor art gallery and play space in Astoria, Queens, is offering drop-in art-making and play sessions for toddlers and preschoolers and loads of creative classes for older kids. 

Shastye Art Gallery and Play Space is an intimate indoor play venue in this family-centric Queens neighborhood founded by professional artist Shasta Molnar. While not the largest play space we've reviewed—it is easily spotted by its red awning—it has a huge personality, offering family-friendly activities from crafting to indoor fort-making.

Winter Walks in Fairfield County

When the seemingly endless cold and gray of Winter is giving you a case of cabin fever, it’s time to bundle up the family and head to one of your local parks.  Winter brings its own magic to the local parks and preserves of Fairfield County.  Less crowds means more peace and quiet to enjoy your natural surroundings.  Take in a refreshing breath of cold air and see how many animal tracks you can find in the snow or just spend some time gathering materials to make an awesome Ice Suncatcher.

No snow? No problem! You don’t need snow shoes, skis, sleds to enjoy these parks and preserves - a pair of weatherproof boots and your winterwear should do the trick. So, disconnect from the screens and devices for an afternoon and reconnect with nature. 

Kids' Mystery Party: Games and Ideas for a Kid-Friendly Murder Mystery Party

When my son declared he wanted a mystery party for his 10th birthday, I turned to the Internet to research party games and ideas. Happy surprise, the No. 1 Google result for “kids mystery party” is my friend Liz’s hilarious post comparing the type-A Pinterest-perfect mystery ideas she found online vs her own totally type-B mystery party. 

While anyone who has been to my always-messy apartment will attest I am definitely not a type-A mom, when it comes to birthday parties, I love to go all out with really creative activities that always leave the kids saying, “That was the best party ever.” Let’s face it, kids don’t care if your paper goods are fancy; they just want to have fun. 

So, in response to Mom-101's post, I took up the challenge to create an A-is-for-Awesome kids' mystery party that anyone could throw without a MFP (Masters in Fine Pinterest).

Soccer Summer Camps in the Hartford Area

If your child is a soccer fan dreaming of winning the World Cup, he or she will gladly spend the summer developing or honing athletic skills while chasing the familiar black-and-white ball. For children inspired by David Beckham or Mia Hamm, take a look at one of these great summer camps in the Hartford area, and set them up to score the victory goal. 

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