We've compiled a list of free and low-cost family friendly activities in and around Carmichael to enjoy this week.
This week is filled with St. Patrick's Day-themed activities, and thankfully there are some family-friendly festivities going on, including the traditional Irish parade in Old Sacramento, which is always a fun, historical trip. There's also a Star Trek-themed weekend at the Discovery Museum of Science and Space, along with a drum festival and free library activities. We've compiled a listing of such kid-friendly, low and no-cost activities:
1. Carmichael After-School Book Club
Find out what's happening in Fair Oaks-Carmichaelwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Where/When: , 5605 Marconi Ave., Friday, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Why: For school-age children, this monthly event (held the second Friday of the month) is a great way to get your kids into reading comprehension and more. This month's book is “The Witches” by Roald Dahl, a classic favorite.
Find out what's happening in Fair Oaks-Carmichaelwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Pricing: Free
Where/When: Old Sacramento State Historic Park, 1002 2nd Street, Saturday, Noon – 6 p.m., Parade at 1 p.m.
Why: Help bring the luck of the Irish to Old Sacramento this Saturday and watch the 15th annual St. Patrick's Day parade. Regardless of the weather, there will be Irish dancers, bagpipers, school bands, military regiments, police and fire representatives, costumed marchers and more. An all-ages, family-oriented event, last year's parade saw about 20,000 spectators, according to the Old Sacramento Business Association, which helps sponsor the event.
Pricing: Free, but parking isn't.
3. 4th Annual Floyd Kennedy Drum Festival
Where/When: Natomas High School Performing Arts Center, 3301 Fong Ranch Road, Saturday, 6:30 p.m.
Why: A well-known and respected Sacramento area drummer, Floyd Kennedy has been drumming more than 40 years and teaching for more than 28. This performance will feature Dante “Taz” Roberson, Michael Johnston, Stefon Dubose, Aaron Green, Sergey Lysak and more. Treat your kids to live music and beats, which is sure to be a treat for those of all ages.
Pricing: Adults $10, Children $5
4. Calling All Star Trek Fans!
Where/When: Discovery Museum Science and Space Center, 3615 Auburn Blvd., Saturday and Sunday, 12:30 – 4 p.m.
Why: What could be geekier than dressing up as a Trekkie at the Discovery Museum? Maybe bringing your costumed kids along and enjoying Star Trek-themed activities. This weekend only, wear a Star Trek outfit to receive $1 off admission, and mingle with other fans of the iconic science-fiction show that's become part of our culture.
Pricing:
Adults: $6
Seniors and Teens: $5
Children 4-12: $4
Children 0-3: Free
5. Wii Gaming for Teens
Where/When: Central Library, 828 I Street, Saturday, 3 – 4:30 p.m.
Why: Play Wii Sports, Mario Kart and other Wii games every second and third Saturday of the month with other teens in the “Teen Underground” aka the lower level of the library.
Pricing: Free
6. Carmichael Read to Rover Book Program
Where/When: Carmichael Library, 5605 Marconi Ave., Tuesday, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Why: Quite possibly the cutest, most furry literacy-based library program, kids ages 5 to 10 are welcome to read aloud to a quiet, friendly dog. The dogs are specially trained, therapy dogs; kids can earn stickers and a book for their efforts.
Pricing: Free
