Topanga Children’s Festival

Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
1419 North Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Topanga Canyon
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Kids ages 2 and up $6; adults $12; special family pack for four (2 adults and 2 kids) for $30. A VIP reserved seat for the Philharmonic Orchestra is $25 and $50 buys a VIP seat plus lunch with the Orchestra.
Website

The renowned Topanga Philharmonic Orchestra (TPO) returns to headline the Topanga Children’s Festival on Saturday, May 1st. from 11 am – 4 pm at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum.  The 4th Annual Children’s Festival is an all-day, family friendly event featuring non-stop music and theatre on 2 stages, children’s crafts, face painting, delicious food & drink, local vendors, storytelling and much more.

This year the TPO will celebrate its 31st year by performing a selection of pieces from 2 pm to 4 pm, including Scheherazade by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. The Orchestra is led by conductor Guido Lamell, a member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra. He is joined by other world-class musicians from the Los Angeles and Santa Monica Philharmonic orchestras.

In addition to the TPO performances, there will be a special performance from Birdie’s Playhouse. Birdie’s wildly fun music grooves and teaches while incorporating singing, dancing, percussion play and fun factoids about wildlife and other environmental themes.

Several well-known and beloved Topanga performers also will be on hand, including Melanie Kareem’s Middle Eastern Dance Troupe and The Polsky Family Band playing bluegrass and other traditional American music. Back by popular demand, the Preschool’s own director, Even Barrett-Caston will host a storytelling session as only he can, as well as lead a special performance by Topanga’s own Dad Band. Check the festival website for continuously updated information on performers and show times.

Organizers suspect the festival will sell out even earlier that usual with the TPO on board, and recommend getting tickets in advance. Tickets are on sale now at Café Mimosa, the Waterlily Café and on the Festival website HERE.

Free Festival shuttles will once again be provided by Calmont School. Park for free at Topanga General Store and ride to and from the Theatricum all day long.

2010 Environmental Working Group Shoppers Guide – Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 – Now Available

The Environmental Working Group just released their annual Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 — a list of the twelve most pesticide laden fruits and vegetables and fifteen of the most pesticide free — as a shopper’s guide to produce purchasing. Topping this year’s Dirty Dozen is celery and includes peaches, blueberries and strawberries. Topping the Clean 15 is onion and avocado. The handy guide is printable and indespensible in your purse or wallet on your trips to the farmers market or grocery store. Particulary during this economy, it helps to have a narrowed-down list of what must, or should, be purchased organic! Check out the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 HERE.

Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit group that works to protect kids from toxic chemicals in our food, water, air and the products we use every day.  To learn more about them, join, or donate to the cause, visit the EWG website HERE.

FREE Kids Music – Lucky Diaz Gets Both Kids and Parents Singing and Dancing

One listen to musician Lucky Diaz’ catchy version of This Old Man on his new LP and you just might forget the knick-knack-paddywack of the old standard. But since we aren’t professional music reviewers, we thought it best to test the LP–available for FREE download on Lucky’s website– on our own L.A. Kid. Twenty minutes after watching our kid bop and dance and then refuse to turn the music off, we feel safe in saying that she loved it! Now the CD is a staple in our kid’s growing collection of music that we can enjoy and dance to as well.  Listen for yourselves, then download Lucky Diaz’ kids album Luckiest Adventure for free HERE, before it hits iTunes!

Third Annual National Train Day Chugs into Town on May 8, 2010 with Free Event at Historic Union Station

The third annual National Train Day will be chugging into town at historic Union Sation with fun events and activities for the entire family on Saturday, May 8, 2010. National Train Day will commemorate the 141st anniversary of the development of the first transcontinental railroad‘s by bringing to life the rich history of how trains transformed America. Live entertainment, interactive and educational exhibits, kid‘s entertainment, food demonstrations, model train displays, and a tour of notable private railroad cars, Amtrak equipment, freight, and commuter trains will be part of the celebration from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on National Train Day. The event and all activities are free.

The Union Station event will feature model trains, train equipment displays and much more including:
The Railroad Braceros Exhibit
Train Equipment Displays
Model Train Displays
AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit
National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit
Snapshot Station
Trains Move our Economy Exhibit
Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way exhibit and culinary emonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz
Live performances by the USC Trojan Marching Band and Playhouse Disney’s Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve!
Appearance by California Gold’s Huell Howser

National Train Day Celebration

Union Station
800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, 90012
Saturday, May 8, 2010
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE ($6 Parking is available at E. Cesar Chavez and N. Vignes St in the MTA Lot)
Website

L.A. Kid Stuff, Things to Do, Events, Activities this week:
Monday, April 19 – Sunday, April 25, 2010

48th Annual Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire – Special Kids Day

Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area
15501 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale, 91706
Saturdays and Sundays, April 10-May 23, 2010
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Special School Day for Kids
Friday, April 23, 2010 (Tickets must be purchased in advance HERE)
9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost:Adult Tickets (normally $25) – $22.00 until 4-23; Child Tickets (normally $15) – $13.50 until 4-23; School Day tickets are $14 + a free adult chaperone ticket for every 10 kids.

L.A. Kids Consignment Sale

24901 Avenue Stanford, Valencia, 91355
Friday-Sunday, April 23-25, 2010
Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (50% off many items)
Ages: Parents (and kids too)
Cost: FREE Admission (you can purchase VIP Presale passes for $10 HERE)

The Show Off

Grow Kid Grow
4310 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, 90029; (323) 661-4769
Friday, April 23, 2010
7 p.m.
Ages: 3-7
Cost: FREE

The Secret of Kells – Oscar nominee for Best Animated Feature

Laemmle’s Sunset 5
8000 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 90046
(310) 478-3836
Friday, April 23-Sunday, April 25, 2010
Check with theatre for times
Website

World City – The Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre

W.M. Keck Foundation Children’s Amphitheatre
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, 90012; (213) 972-7211
Saturday, April 24, 2010
11 a.m. and again at 12:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE (All tickets are free and are distributed on Grand Avenue at 2nd Street. Tickets for 11:00am performance distributed beginning at 10:00am. Tickets for 12:30pm performance distributed beginning at 11:00am.)

Kimono: From Past To Present

Japanese American National Museum
369 East First Street, Los Angeles, 90012; (213) 625-0414
Saturday, April 24, 2010
2 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Adults $9.00; Seniors (62 and over) $5.00; Students (with ID) and Youth (6-17) $5.00; Children 5 and under and Museum Members, FREE.

Whole Children, Whole Planet Expo

Highland Hall Waldorf School
17100 Superior St., Northridge, CA
Saturday, April 24, 2010
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE admission

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books

UCLA
405 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday & Sunday, April 24-25, 2010
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Downtown Burbank Arts Festival featuring the B.A.E.F. Art Block

Downtown Burbank
between Magnolia Boulevard and Olive, spanning Orange Grove Avenue, Burbank, CA 91502
Saturday, April 24, 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Sunday, April 25, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Funky Bird Feeders

Craft and Folk Art Museum
Miracle Mile
5814 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90036; 323-937-4230
Saturday, April 24, 2010
1:30 – 3:30pm
Ages: 3-12
Cost: $6 per child/ Adults free with museum $5 admission; CAFAM Family Passport and above – FREE

Sunshine Drum Circle and Family Art Show

Trash for Teaching Warehouse
2946 East 11th Street, Los Angeles, 90023; (323) 262-3400
Saturday, April 24, 2010
10 a.m. – Noon
Ages: 4 and up (with parent)
Cost: $20 Adults, $10 Children

The Rhine’s Gold performed by We Tell Stories

Mark Taper Auditorium
Los Angeles Central Library
630 W. 5th Street, Los Angeles, 90071; (213) 228-7000
Saturday, April 24, 2010
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Ages: 5-12
Cost: FREE

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday, April 24, 2010
11 a.m.
Ages: 5 and up
Cost: $15

Children’s Earth Day

STAR ECO Station
10101 Jefferson Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 • 310 842 8060
Sunday, April 25, 2010
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Free Earth Day Concert with EGG

Dragonfly DuLou
2066 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles, 90027; (323) 665-8448
Sunday, April 25, 2010
11 a.m. (Rain or Shine!)
Ages: ALL
Cost: FREE

A Day Out with Thomas

Fillmore & Western Railway, Fillmore Central Park
250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, 93015
Friday-Sunday, April 23 – 25, 2010
Friday 9:50 a.m. through 2:40 p.m. (trains depart every 50 minutes)
Saturday and Sunday 9:50 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. (trains depart every 50 minutes)
Ages: All
Cost: $18 per person, FREE for children under 24 months that sit on lap(Purchase tickets HERE or call (866) 468-7630

ONGOING THIS WEEK AND BEYOND

Drop-In Workshops

reDiscover
12958 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, 90066; (310) 393-3636
Saturdays
10 a.m. – Noon
Ages: 4 and up
Cost: $5 per project (no time limit)

Walk-In Studio Hours

CReATE Studio
Westlake Village, 91361 (818) 522-5213
(call or email for exact address)
Tuesdays,Wednesdays & Fridays
11a.m.-6 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: 5 and under $6; 6-12 $8; 13 and up $12 (Studio fee includes up to 2 hours of studio time and all materials made)

Kids Club on The Green

Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way, Glendale, 91210; (818) 637-8982
Tuesdays
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Storytime

Barnes and Noble at The Americana
889 Americana Way, Glendale, 91210; (818) 637-8982
Tuesdays
11 a.m.
Ages: 2 and up
Cost: FREE

Kids Yoga on The Green

The Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way, Glendale, 91210; (818) 637-8982
Wednesdays
11 a.m.-11:45 a.m.
Ages: 3-6
Cost: FREE

The Emperor’s New Clothes

Theatre West in Association with Storybook Theatre
3333 Cahuenga Boulevard, Los Angeles, 90068; (323) 851-7977
Saturdays, March 4 – July 10, 2010
1 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Adult $12; Children $10

Dig It! Archaeological Adventures

Skirball Cultural Center
2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A.
Saturdays and Sundays
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Drop in anytime – Weather permitting)
Ages: All (Must be accompanied by adult)
Cost: FREE with museum admission ($10 General; $7 Seniors 65+ and Full-Time Students; $5 Children 2-12;
Free to Children under 2 and Skirball Members)

Salt Marsh and Sand Dunes Tours

Ballona Wetlands
211 Culver Blvd., Ste. K, Playa Del Rey
303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey, 90293 (This is the meeting place)
Every Second Sunday of each month (call to confirm) (310) 306-5994
Sundays, May 9, June 13, July 11, 2010
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Farm Animal Friends Exhibit

The Children’s Museum at La Habra
301 South Euclid Street, La Habra, 90631; (562) 905-9793
Tuesday, February 9, 2010 – June 30, 2010
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Fridays open at 9 a.m. for CMLH Members; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Closed Mondays and all Major Holidays
Ages: All
Cost: Museum Admission ($7/person; $6/La Habra residents; Children under 2 FREE)

Journeys: The Silk Road

Pacific Asia Museum
46 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, California 91101 (626) 449-2742
Ongoing Exhibit
Museum Hours: Wednesdays-Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Museum Admission (General Admission $9; Students, Seniors $7; Children Age 11 and Under FREE)

SKATEBOARD: Evolution and Art in California

The California Heritage Museum
2612 Main Street, Santa Monica, 90405; (310) 392-8537
NOW through Sunday, May 10, 2010
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: General Admission $8; Seniors, Students $5; Members, Children under twelve FREE

Lil‘ Book Lovers Storytime

Barnes and Noble
The Americana at Brand
210 Americana Way, Glendale, 91210, (818) 545-9146
Thursdays
7 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

The Art of Native American Basketry: A Living Tradition

Autry National Center
4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, 90027; (323) 667-2000
November 7, 2009 through May 30, 2010
Saturdays and Sundays
11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesdays–Fridays
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: $9.00 for Adults; $5.00 for students (13-18) and seniors (60+); $5.00 Adult Students (18 and over with ID); $3.00 for children (3-12); FREE for children under 3

Dinosaur Encounters

Natural History Museum
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, 90007; (213) 763-3466
Ongoing Wednesdays – Fridays 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Saturdays – Sundays 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Museum Admission

Family Discovery Gallery

Museum of the American West
Autry National Center
4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, 90027
Ongoing Exhibit
Ages: All
Cost: Free with Museum Admission ($9.00 for Adults; $5.00 for students (13-18) and seniors (60+); $5.00 Adult Students with ID); $3.00 for children (3-12); Free for children under 3

Habitat Restoration Volunteer Days

Ballona Wetlands
7740 West Manchester Avenue, Playa Del Rey
303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey, 90293 (This is the meeting place)
Every Fourth Sunday of each month (call to confirm)
Sundays, February 27, March 27, April 24, 2010
9:30 a.m. – Noon
Ages: All (Kids under age 15 must be accompanied by adult but are welcome)
Cost: FREE

Gold Rush

Museum of the American West
Autry National Center
4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, 90027
Saturdays and Sundays
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Free with Museum Admission ($9.00 for Adults; $5.00 for students (13-18) and seniors (60+); $5.00 Adult Students with ID); $3.00 for children (3-12); Free for children under 3

Noah’s Ark Permanent Exhibit

Skirball Cultural Center
2701 North Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049
Tuesdays – Sundays (closed Mondays)
Tuesday–Friday, 12:00–5:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE with Museum Admission ($10 General; $7 Seniors 65+ and Full-Time Students; $5 Children 2-12; Children 2 and under FREE) Every THURSDAY FREE for the whole family!

Family Nature Walk

Eaton Canyon Natural Area
1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, 91107
Saturdays (Weather permitting. Call to confirm the week you want to attend.)
9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

Free TV/Film Acting Class

TVI Actors Studio
14429 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 91423; (818) 784-6500
Saturdays
10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 7 to 17
Cost: FREE

Kids Rhythm Club

REMO Percussion Center
7308 Coldwater Canyon. North Hollywood 91605
(1/2 block North of Sherman Way)
Saturdays
11 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Age: 2-12 (but all are welcome; parents must stay with children)
Cost: FREE

Pajama Storytime

Hastings Branch Library
3325 E Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91107
Mondays
7 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE

COMING SOON

Artichoke: 26 Animals

Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m.
Ages: 3 and up
Cost: $15

L.A. Conservancy, Friends of La Laguna Celebrate the Sixties with May Day Monster Mash Picnic

La Laguna de San Gabriel
Vincent Lugo Park
Corner of Wells & Ramona Street, San Gabriel
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m. -2 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: $15 ($10 for Conservancy members, $5 for kids 12 and under)
Reservations required HERE

Jokin’ Baroque (Family Concert)

Alex Theatre
216 North Brand Boulevard, Glendale, 91203; 818 243 7700 x 123
Sunday, May 2, 2010
2 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: $10 and $16/person (Buy Tickets Online HERE)

Jambo

Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m.
Ages: 3 and up
Cost: $15

Free Comic Book Day with Red Fraggle

Archaia Entertainment
Meltdown Comics
7522 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, 90046; (323) 851-7223
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Ages: 6-12
Cost: FREE

Cinco de Mayo Window Clings

Zimmer Children’s Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles; 90048; (323) 761-8984
Sunday, May 2, 2010
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: 1-8
Cost: $3 per child in addition to the entrance fee. Entrance fee is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3 and over. Children 2 and under and grandparents are free. Members free.

Family Trees for Mom

Craft and Folk Art Museum
5814 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, 90036; (323) 937-4230
Saturday, May 8, 2010
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Ages: 3-12
Cost: $6 per child/ CAFAM Family Passport and above – FREE

Our Potpourri

Zimmer Children’s Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90048; (323) 761-8984
Sunday, May 9, 2010
2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Ages: 1-8
Cost: $3.00 per child in addition to the entrance fee. Entrance fee is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3 and over. Children 2 and under and grandparents are free. Members free.

California Strawberry Festival

Strawberry Meadows of College Park
3250 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, 93033; (888) 288-9242
Saturday and Sunday, May 15 & 16, 2010
10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: General admission $12; Seniors (62+) $8; Active military and dependents with ID $8; Children ages 5-12 $5; Kids 4 and under FREE

World City - Kuniko and On Ensemble

W.M. Keck Foundation Children’s Amphitheatre
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, 90012; (213) 972-7211
Saturday, May 15, 2010
11 a.m. and again at 12:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE (All tickets are free and are distributed on Grand Avenue at 2nd Street. Tickets for 11:00am performance distributed beginning at 10:00am. Tickets for 12:30pm performance distributed beginning at 11:00am.)

Sunshine Drum Circle and Family Art Show

Trash for Teaching Warehouse
2946 East 11th Street, Los Angeles, 90023; (323) 262-3400
Saturday, May 15, 2010
10 a.m. – Noon
Ages: 4 and up (with parent)
Cost: $20 Adults, $10 Children

Aussie Art

Zimmer Children’s Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90048; (323) 761-8984
Sunday, May 16, 2010
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: 1-8
Cost: $3.00 per child in addition to the entrance fee. Entrance fee is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3 and over. Children 2 and under and grandparents are free. Members free.

Story Pirates

Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday, May 22, 2010
11 a.m.
Ages: 4 and up
Cost: $15

Perfect Prints

Zimmer Children’s Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90048; (323) 761-8984
Sunday, May 23, 2010
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: 1-8
Cost: $3.00 per child in addition to the entrance fee. Entrance fee is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3 and over. Children 2 and under and grandparents are free. Members free.

Sand Painting

Zimmer Children’s Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90048; (323) 761-8984
Sunday, May 30, 2010
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages: 1-8
Cost: $3.00 per child in addition to the entrance fee. Entrance fee is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3 and over. Children 2 and under and grandparents are free. Members free.

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books

UCLA
405 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles, 90024
Saturday & Sunday, April 24-25, 2010
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE
Website

The largest and most prestigious book festival in the country, attracting more than 130,000 book lovers each year. Author book signings and panels, vendor booths and activities. A Mobile Scavenger Hunt will reward the winner with an IPad. Target Children’s Stage will keep the kids entertained.

Saturday Target Children’s Stage

10:00 AM
* The Fresh Beat Band

10:40 AM
* Caitlin Sanchez
* Voice of Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer

11:00 AM
* Carl Reiner
Author of Tell Me a Silly Story

11:20 AM
* Todd Parr
* Author of The EARTH Book

11:45 AM
* Hip Hop Harry
* Party Jams

12:20 PM
* Jade-Lianna Peters
* Voice of Kai-Ian from Nickelodeon’s Ni Hao, Kai-Ian

12:40 PM
* Bernadette Peters
* Author of Stella is a Star!

1:00 PM
* David Soman and Jacky Davis
* Authors of Ladybug Girl at the Beach

1:25 PM
* Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary
* Author of Puff the Magic Dragon, Day is Done, and Songs for Little Folks

2:00 PM
* Jimmy Gownley
* Author of Amelia Rules!: The Tweenage Guide to Not Being Unpopular

2:20 PM
* Jarrett J. Krosoczka
* Author & Illustrator of The Lunch Lady series

2:40 PM
* Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver
* Authors of Hank Zipzer: A Brand-New Me! #17

3:00 PM
* Megan McDonald
* Author of Judy Moody and Stink series

3:25 PM
* Shawn and Marlon Wayans
* Authors of Sneaker Madness and The Boo Crew, The Boo Crew

4:00 PM
* Carolyn Cohagan
* Author of Lost Children

4:20 PM
* Matthew Reinhart
* Author of Encyclopedia Mythologica: Gods & Heroes

4:40 PM
* R.L Stine (cancelled)
* Author of Goosebumps HorrorLand #14: Little Shop of Hamsters

4:50 PM
* Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players
* Pop Fly

Sunday Target Children’s Stage

10:00 AM
* The Fresh Beat Band

10:35 AM
* Anna Dewdney
* Author of Llama Llama Mad at Mama

10:55 AM
* Bob Barner
* Author of Bears! Bears! Bears!

11:15 AM
* Susie Bazil & Shawn McCann
* Author and Illustrator of The Sick Bug

11:35 AM
* Diane Muldrow & Bob Staake
* Author and Illustrator of We Planted a Tree

12:00 PM
* Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary
* Author of Puff the Magic Dragon, Day is Done, and Songs for Little Folks

12:35 PM
* John Carter Cash
* Author of Daddy Loves His Little Girl

12:55 PM
* Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
* Authors of My Brother Charlie

1:15 PM
* Jef Czekaj
* Author of Hip and Hop, Don’t Stop

1:40 PM
* Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players
* Pop Fly

2:15 PM
* Melodee Strong
* Illustrator of Colorful World

2:35 PM
* Jane Kurtz
* Author of American Girl book, Lanie

2:55 PM
* Robin Preiss Glasser
* Illustrator of Fancy Nancy: Poet Extraordinaire!

3:15 PM
* Major Brian Dennis
* Author of NUBS: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle

3:35 PM
* Joanna Cole & Bruce Degen
* Author and Illustrator of The Magic School Bus and the Climate Change

3:55 PM
* Josh Lewis
* Author of Super Chicken Nugget Boy and the Furious Fry

4:20 PM
* Hip Hop Harry
* Party Jams

Kimono: From Past To Present

Japanese American National Museum
369 East First Street, Los Angeles, 90012; (213) 625-0414
Saturday, April 24, 2010
2 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Adults $9.00; Seniors (62 and over) $5.00; Students (with ID) and Youth (6-17) $5.00; Children 5 and under and Museum Members, FREE.
Website

A beautiful and educational kimono show and lecture, featuring men and women’s kimono for all different occasions, by the International Beauty Association Yamanoryu Kisou.

The show will feature furisode (a long sleeve kimono worn by unmarried women for ceremonies), homongi (a regular sleeved kimono worn by men and women for ceremonies), montsuki hakama (formal Japanese attire for men), and tomesode (a formal kimono worn by married women).

The lecture will include information about the different kinds of kimonos people wear, kimono patterns and designs, the kinds of kimonos you would wear for different seasons, the evolution of kimono fashion, an explanation and demonstration of how to tie an obi, and more.

Magic and Whimsy at Historic Monster Park

There’s a magical place tucked in a corner of Vincent Lugo Park in the City of San Gabriel where sea creatures have lived and entertained the imaginations of children for the past 45 years. Cast out of concrete by Mexican-American master concrete artist Benjamin Dominguez, Laguna de San Gabriel Nautical Playground is a whimsical lagoon with a sea dragon, pink whale, octopus and other creatures that, in today’s ubiquitous standard playground swings and slides, are amazing to behold. Just as amazing are the efforts of non-profit Friends of La Laguna, the group that successfully lobbied against the demolition of the park in 2006 and won a place for Dominguez’ work on the California State Registry of Historic Places and as a City of San Gabriel local landmark.

When one thinks of historic places, playgrounds do not instantly come to mind. In fact, Laguna de San Gabriel Nautical Playground is the first civic playground to be on the California Registry despite the City of San Gabriel’s initial safety concerns, which the Friends of La Laguna say will be mitigated after restoration. The graceful, beautiful and seemingly fluid work of Benjamin Dominguez might easily be mistaken as objects in a sculpture garden absent the play and laughter of kids, but this scenario is something that won’t ever be, says Friends of La Laguna President Senya Lubisich. “As much as we are preserving the playground, we are preserving the experience for children,” Lubisich says. “There’s nothing like watching a child enter the playground for the first time. They are in awe, and because these are animals, they hug them and connect with them. The playground inspires creative play.”

Two other Benjamin Dominguez playgrounds exist in southern California, one in Whittier Narrows Recreation Area at Legg Lake and the other in Garden Grove at the Atlantis Play Center. Friends of La Laguna are already in discussions with the County of Los Angeles to preserve the Whittier Narrows Park playground another historic place. The California Office of Historic Preservation will receive the Legg Lake nomination June 1st and a decision could come in six months or sooner.

If your kids haven’t already experienced the magic of a Benjamin Dominguez playground and its unique creatures, there are plenty of ways for you to share it with them.

Play at a Park

Laguna de San Gabriel Nautical Playground
Vincent Lugo Park
Corner of Wells & Ramona Street
San Gabriel, CA;
(626) 308-2875
Free
Website

Whittier Narrows Recreation Area
Legg Lake
823 Lexington-Gallatin Rd.
South El Monte, CA 91733
Free
Website

Atlantis Play Center
13630 Atlantis Way
Garden Grove, CA 92844
(714) 892-6015
$1 Admission
Website

Go on a Picnic

L.A. Conservancy, Friends of La Laguna Celebrate the Sixties with May Day Monster Mash Picnic
Saturday, May 1, 2010
11 a.m. -2 p.m.
La Laguna de San Gabriel, Vincent Lugo Park, San Gabriel

Bring the family to this “Monster Park” for a May Day afternoon of games, lunch, architecture-inspired ice cream sandwiches from the Coolhaus truck, and more! The event is part of the L.A. Conservancy’s The Sixties Turn 50 events. (MORE)

Volunteer with Restoration Efforts

According to Friends of La Laguna President Senya Lubisich, various grants and donations have allowed for phase I of Laguna de San Gabriel Playground restoration to take place. With a preservation architect overseeing the project, construction of the wooden entry dock and centerpiece dragon slide will begin in July, and there will be plenty of opportunities for the public to volunteer in the rebuilding and renovating and in the process have a hand in preserving history. For more information, contact the Friends of La Laguna on their website. Or check back at L.A. Kid Stuff where we’ll be sure to list all volunteer opportunities for you and your kids!

Whole Children, Whole Planet Expo

Highland Hall Waldorf School
17100 Superior St., Northridge, CA
Saturday, April 24, 2010
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: FREE admission
Website

FUN AND FREE!

“The Whole Children, Whole Planet Expo is the premier natural parenting and family expo to introduce and educate families, professionals and friends about the benefits of sustainable living practices, holistic medicine, non-toxic products, organic foods, better nutrition and enrichment learning programs. Our mission is to educate the community about important health and environmental issues and provide the resources and tools necessary to protect our families, and the planet.”

Oscar-Nominated, Visually-Spectacular Animated Film The Secret of Kells Back in Town this Weekend for Limited Screenings!

Last December we held a ticket giveaway contest for a little known animated film called The Secret of Kells during it’s one-week Oscar run! Boy was it successful! The Oscar-nominated film for Best Animated Feature was the only one of its kind–among the digitized, big studio films–that stayed true to traditional animation techniques. This weekend, you’ll have another chance to see this visually-spectacular film during its one-week run at the Laemmle Sunset 5 in West Hollywood. Don’t miss it!

The Secret of Kells draws its story from the ancient The Book of Kells and offers fantasy, a magical adventure and visually-spectacular style inspired by Celtic Art and illuminated medieval manuscripts.

The Book of Kells is a beautiful manuscript and Ireland’s most precious medieval artifact. Journey with protagonist 12-year-old Brendan as he fights Vikings and a serpent god to find a crystal that will magically complete this magnificent book. The adventure will take Brendan outside of the abbey where he lives into an enchanted forest where a white faerie wolf/girl will befriend him and help him on his quest. In the process Brendan’s own extraordinary talents will be awakened and his courage fortified.

Extensive research into Irish fairy tales, legends and historic Irish locales and monuments went into developing the lavishly-detailed and colorful look of the film. And in a time when digital animation is becoming more and more standard, The Secret of Kells relies mostly on classic hand-drawn animation inspired by medieval art.

“Many of the most influential animation artists still insist that there are stories that are best told with traditional animation,” says Director Tomm Moore. “With our influences and subject matter concerning some of the greatest craftsmen and artists who ever lived we felt strongly that this film is one of those stories.” (Click HERE to see a film clip and the TRAILER)

The Secret of Kells – Oscar nominee for Best Animated Feature

Laemmle’s Sunset 5
8000 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 90046
(310) 478-3836
Friday, April 23-Sunday, April 25, 2010
Check with theatre for times
Website