Perhaps your birthday kid dreams of being a pirate on the high seas or donning a cape and mask to save the day. Maybe he or she wants to operate construction equipment, ride the rails, or gallop into the sunset in the Wild West. Luckily, New Jersey is bursting with options for birthday parties packed with action and adventure. Whatever your little adventurer is into, there is a party place to make his or her dream a reality—at least for a day! 

We've rounded up a dozen of our favorite spots for superheroes, pirates, and transportation lovers to celebrate their big day. For even more ideas, including dinosaur-themed birthdays, a kid-friendly murder-mystery party, and other top NJ party spots, be sure to check out our NJ Kids' Birthday Party Ideas Guide. 

Every four years, Philly families turn their attention to the excitement of the Winter Olympics. From watching the grace and beauty of the figure skaters to the exhilarating rush of the bobsledders, Philly kids and parent alike enjoy rooting for the good, ole, U.S.A. as they watch the games on television. This year's events are happening half-way around the world in PyeongChang in South Korea. Feel more connected to the spirit of the games by participating in some of these Olympic-themed activities happening locally throughout the Delaware Valley. Let's cheer on our amazing U.S.A. athletes as they compete to bring home the gold!

When you have a budding thespian, writer, artist or musician, summer can be a magical time to encourage them to focus on his or her passion. Litchfield county offers a variety of summer camp experiences where artists can hone their skills and become inspired by their teachers. Litchfield Jazz Camp is the only sleep away camp in the lot. The rest are day camps that run in one or two week sessions. Also, be sure to check out our CT Summer Camp Guide and our Summer Camp Directory. 

As the Olympic competition heats up and outdoor temperatures struggle to creep above frigid, the cold-yet-controlled climates of Westchester County's indoor skating rinks beckon to families who've been cooped up all winter. If you're looking for ways to get your own little Nathan Chen or Bradie Tennell out there on the ice, check out these local skating classes.

Want even more winter fun? Take a look at our Winter Fun Guide.

Parenthood adds a whole new dimension to Valentine's Day. If you're looking for a way to celebrate with the kids this year, we've got you covered. You can have a family date night at Jenkinson's Aquarium and Pavilion, create a valentine birdfeeder, or grab your sweethearts and feel the beat of ancient Japanese drumming. You can even go for a Valentine's Day–themed swim (indoors, of course).

Read on for more ways to celebrate with the ones you love. And for even more February fun, check out our Event Calendar and February GoList. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Okay, it may have been more than forty years ago, but the 1976 Olympics looms large in my childhood memories: in fact, I was so enthralled by Dorothy Hamill that I rocked her signature haircut well into my tween years (in hindsight, that was perhaps a few years too long). When the 2018 Winter Olympics open in Pyeongchang later this week, I don't know if my kids will be so enthralled that they'll be demanding Bradie Tennell or Adam Rippon haircuts, but a parent can dream!

Should you find your child enjoying some Olympic dreams of his/her own, there is an abundance of learn-to-skate programs offering everything from figure skating to ice dancing and even ice theater--with some offering February vacation week camps. For even more recommendations for winter fun when you're not watching the games, check out our CT Winter Fun Guide and subscribe to our weekly newsletters and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Have a great week!

Put on your parkas and gloves and head over to Putnam for the 8th Annual Fire and Ice Festival on Feb 10. This large-scale ice sculpture carving event attracts people from all over the country.  Watch as several 300 lb. blocks of ice are transformed into a work of art - bring your Valentine or bring the whole family!

While you are at it, why not make a whole weekend of it?  If you are already in the  "quiet corner" of Connecticut, you may want to check out a few others things like the Conn. Audubon's programs, the Chocolate Festival, and the Textile Museum.  And of course, don't forget to check our Mommy Poppins' Winter Guide for all things fun to do in winter!