Open Eye Theatre

It’s almost August and I can’t believe I didn’t discover this small theatre production until this past week.  I was scrolling the Hennepin County website for some free activities to stay out of the heat and I came across this puppet show at the North East Library.  The show was called The Amazing Cow Boat, and all the props are hand-made along with the wooden box stage.  The puppeteers were witty and fun, and my two-year old was laughing out loud!  The tour is called the Driveway Tour and the company brings family friendly shows into the community for FREE!  They also have a small storefront in South Minneapolis with a theater that seats up to 90 people.  I believe their last free show on the Driveway Tour is August 7th, so check out their schedule by clicking on the link and have some family fun!

 

Open Eye Theatre

Monday Morning Kids Series in Bloomington, MN

Start the week off with some music and dancing at Moir Park in Bloomington (104th Street West and Morgan Avenue South).  Every Monday morning at 10:30, join the fun with children’s bands from around the Twin Cities.  Bring a lunch, and have a picnic after the show.

Moir Park 

James I. Rice Park in Minneapolis

My mom recommended this park to me, who has a fabulous home daycare.  The James I. Rice Park (located at the intersection of N. 4th Ave. and W. River Parkway) is a wonderful natural setting park in the heart of Minneapolis.  It’s right next to the Mississippi River and surrounded by walking and biking paths.  There are various structures; slides that look like tree trunks, rope climbing, a rolling slide, swings, and rocks and stumps to climb on.  My toddler loves this park, especially all of the unique climbing structures.  If you happen to go to this park on a Thursday, check out the fantastic Minneapolis Farmers Market on Nicollet Mall right in downtown, you can buy fresh produce, flowers, specialty items, and more.

James I. Rice Park

Minneapolis Farmers Market

Family fun this weekend June 23

If you’re looking for something fun and free this weekend, check out this community event at Minnehaha Regional Park hosted by Falls 4 All and People for Parks neighborhood committees.  The event will take place Saturday June 23rd, from 11am – 1pm and will include Martha Herbert and her exotic animals, release of birds from the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, music by the Bazillions, and food trucks including Cupcake! and Di Noko’s Pizza.  The event is in honor of raising money for a new universally accessible playground at the popular Wabun Picnic Area located in Minnehaha Regional Park.

Falls 4 All

Summer Concert Series in Chanhassen, MN

Enjoy free concerts this summer in Chanhassen on Thursday nights.  There is a variety of music all summer long that will entertain your family.  There will be two Thursday day performances, June 28th Kid Power with Rachael and July 26th Wiggle, Jiggle, Jam, both at 11:30.

Chanhassen concerts

Music and Movies in Shakopee, MN

Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday night there is fun for the whole family at Huber Park in Shakopee (150 Fillmore St. N.).  Listen to jazz, a community band, and even watch a puppet show or a movie.  Pick an event or concert that suits your family and build your love for music and the outdoors.

Huber Park

Outdoor Concerts for Kids in Eden Prairie, MN

A friend recommended Kidstock at Staring Lake Amphitheatre (14800 Pioneer Trail) in Eden Prairie.  Starting June 26th, you can enjoy family tunes every Tuesday from 10:30-11:30 until August 7th.  The summer will kick off with the Splatter Sisters on the 26th, and continue with songs from the Okee Dokee Brothers on July 3rd.  So pack a lunch and bring your dancing shoes to have some fun in the sun.

Staring Lake Amphitheatre