April Calendar

children-500065_1280There are lots of monthly event updates, giveaways, and other information in our newsletters –  Sign-up here!  To submit and event to our calendar send an email to  email@completelykidsrichmond.com.

All Month

Wicked Plants. Science Museum of Virginia.  Wicked Plants unearths 75 poisonous, carnivorous and diabolical plants inside of a dilapidated, Victorian home. Guests traverse through each room to uncover the biochemical, physical and neurological processes between botanicals and the human body.  Free with museum admission.  Through Sunday, May 17th.

April 1st – June 1st

A Million Blooms. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. As part of A Million Blooms, a dozen picture frames will be set up throughout the Central Garden and inside the Conservatory to feature what’s in bloom. Peer through the empty frames to view “living bouquets,” ensuring you see the Garden’s highlights. A Million Blooms highlights are the newly completed Cherry Tree Walk with cherry blossoms and other blooms around Sydnor Lake, and Butterflies LIVE! opening April 17. Events throughout the season include Easter Weekend with Peter Rabbit, Mother’s Day, the Spring Plant Sale and plant shows, and activities in the Children’s Garden. Fee (Garden Admission).

April 6th – April 10th

A Week of Action-Packed Adventures during Spring Break! Maymont Park.

Thursdays thru May 7th 

Fresh Start For Single Mothers “Necessary Ingredients”.  Thursday Nights  6pm-7:30pm.  Weekly meetings will be held at Velocity Church, 3300 Church Road, Richmond Virginia 23233.  A fun wonderfully uplifting program for single mothers.  This program is designed to help single mothers through support, new friendships, encouragement, enlightenment & motivation.  It is used to encourage single mothers in a positive direction while taking a closer look at their present lives and future with round table reflective discussion, guest speakers and interaction with other single moms.  Dinner and Childcare is FREE.  Special program for children & teens.  Weekly Prizes, Giveaways & FUN!   Registration Required – they need to know who is to attend and children’s ages, names, grade and gender of the children you would be bringing 804-364-0460.

Today – Sunday, April 19th

treasure islandTreasure Island at The Children’s Theatre of Virginia. The Children’s Theatre at Willow Lawn. Hoist the sales you landlubbers and swab the deck! It’s time to venture out into the tropical seas. Length: 1 hour. Suggested for ages 6 and up. Fee.

Today – September 8th

A Passion for Nature. Tuesdays-Sundays at Maymont Park. 12noon – 5pm. Both indoors and out, James and Sallie Dooley’s estate reflects their love of natural beauty. They filled their residence, the Maymont Mansion, with a treasure trove of nature-inspired decorative and fine arts and landscaped the surrounding 100 acres with beautiful parkland, magnificent trees, and glorious gardens. This spring, the special exhibition “A Passion for Nature” will encourage guests to take a closer look at the bountiful representations of flora and fauna, from lilies and dragonflies adorning Art Nouveau objects to realistic sculpture of lions and owls, found in the decorations of the Gilded Age mansion. $5 suggested donation.

Children’s Summer Art Adventures. Camp registration and information available. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Wednesday, April 1st

Storytime with Seymour. 2pm. Children’s Museum Chesterfield. Special story time with the mascot, Seymour. Free with Museum admission.

Bass Pro Shops Easter Event. 6pm-8pm. Bass Pro Shops. Visits and photos with Easter Bunny, crafts, and more. Free.

All Henrico Reads Author Tayari Jones to Speak at Glen Allen High School. 7pm-8:30pm. Glen Allen High School, 10700 Staples Mill Road, Glen Allen, VA, 23060. The Henrico County Public Library, in partnership with Henrico County Public Schools, and the Friends of Henrico County Public Library will host nationally acclaimed author Tayari Jones.  Her novels will be available for sale and she will autograph books following the program.Seating will be first come, first served. Attendees can enter to win $100 gift certificates to Red Door Spa, The Jefferson Hotel and Southern Seasons courtesy of the Friends of the Henrico County Public Library. Doors will open at 6:15 pm. Additional information is available at www.henricolibrary.org/AHR. Free.

Wednesday, April 1st – Saturday, April 18th

Annual LEGO Contest. All day. Twin Hickory Library. We are setting forth a challenge to all LEGO fans to design and build an ORIGINAL structure for the 6th annual Twin Hickory LEGO Contest. Entries will be accepted from Wednesday April 1st until Saturday April 18th. Prizes will be awarded in various age groups. All entries will remain on display at Twin Hickory during month of April and the winners will be determined by public vote. All entrants must complete an entry form. Entry forms are available online and at the Twin Hickory Library.

Thursday, April 2nd

Eggstravaganza. 10am-11:30am. Dorey Park. 2999 Darbytown Road, Henrico, VA, 23231. Ages 1-5 with an adult. Come out and celebrate spring while attending this fun-packed morning at Dorey Park. Meet the bunny and enjoy a variety of activities including bunny hop music, inflatables, face painting, and crafts. Don’t forget to bring your basket and join us for the egg hunt finale. Free.

Art Lab (Just for Kids). 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. We’ve got a First Friday Sampler just for kids! Enter the art laboratory and create an eclectic variety of art works. Depending on the session we will use a variety of media from clay and wire, to fabric and paint, to create extraordinary art. This week we’re making Accordion Books!  Ages 6 to 9. Fee: $10.

Raku. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Feel the heat with this traditional method of Japanese pottery firing! We’ll fire a piece you glaze and then smoke it in a fire-filled can while you enjoy the campfire like atmosphere on our patio! Bring your own piece to be fired ($10), or choose one of our hand-crafted bowls. $15. Prices are per piece. (2 piece maximum per person unless kiln space permits more). All ages.

Wheel Throwing. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Get 75 minutes of hands-on training from one of VisArts’ talented clay instructors,  select one of your clay creations to fire, then return to VisArts during the next First Friday to retrieve your completed work of art! $10 to have your piece bisque fired $15 to have your piece dip-glazed by a VisArts staff member.  Ages 12 and up.

Clay Hand Building. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Love to learn more about the ancient art of hand building with clay? In this brief class, students will learn the three basic hand building techniques; pinch, coil, and slab – all of which can be used to create functional work.  Select one of your clay creations to be fired, then return to VisArts during the next First Friday to retrieve your completed work of art! $10 to have your piece bisque fired $15 to have your piece dip-glazed by a VisArts staff member. All ages.

Fused Glass Tiles. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Dive into the world of fusing and slumping glass.  In this workshop you will explore cutting colored sheets of glass, grinding glass to form specific patterns, layering patterns, using frits and stringers to create a unique, one of a kind piece of art.  Open to all levels.  Ages 10 and up. Fee: $20.

Screen Printing. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Try your hand at screen printing! There will be a number of inspiring screens to choose from or combine them to create your own design: Birds, bikes, mustaches, aquatic creatures, the Visual Arts Center 50th Anniversary and more! You are welcome to bring your own shirt, tote, or apron to print on. Paper and all other materials will be provided. $10. Ages 12+.

Shape Shifters (CA23). 4:15pm-6pm. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ages 5 – 8 Practice using symmetry while shifting around different shapes and patterns. Learn to transform these puzzle-like designs into mathematical tessellations. $20 (VMFA members $18).

Letterpress. 6pm-7:15pm; 7:30pm-8:45pm. Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Letterpress makes an impression! Come make personalized art that is timeless! Note cards, posters and stationery are all fun options to try your hand at this classic medium. $10. Ages 15 and up.

Stories with Miss Tori. 10:30am-11:15am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227. Interactive early literacy family storytime with songs, stories, and rhymes for the whole family to enjoy. Indoor playtime and crafts at the conclusion. For questions and information Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236. Free.

Friday, April 3rd

LEGO My Library. 10am-noon.  Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227. Join others to build, play and create with other kids in the community.  Work together to create a lego world, use our ipads to make a stop motion movie, or the chromebook to build with virtual legos!  All legos provided. Suitable for children ages 5 and up.  For questions and info. Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236. Free.

Special Night for Special Needs. 5:30-7:30pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location. Visitors enjoy all the museum has to offer and benefit from the availability of adapted materials, special activities, a cool-down space and reduced number of visitors. Children 10 and under. Free.

Saturday, April 4th

Kite Day at Dorey Park. 10am-1pm. Dorey Park. 2999 Darbytown Road, Henrico, VA, 23231 Fly a kite in honor of National Kite Month. Enjoy the day flying kites and sampling treats from local food trucks. Information: gru16@henrico.us. Free admission.

Learn How to Build a Chalkboard Planter Stand.  9am-Noon. Local Home Depot Stores. FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 – 12 offered at all Home Depot stores. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement. Register online.  Free.

Easter Egg Cookie Decorating. 11am-1pm; 2pm. Southern Season, 2250 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA. We’ll provide the egg-shaped cookies, icing and other decorations, you and your kids provide the creativity! (And you don’t even have to worry about making a mess in your kitchen). Free.

Go Discover Richmond! The State Capitol, 1000 Bank Street, Richmond, VA. Go! Discover Richmond is excited to join Civil War & Emancipation Day again in 2015! This collaboration allows us to offer a free guided walking tours of a 2-mile section of downtown’s Liberty Trail at 12 p.m. The Richmond Liberty Trail was created in downtown Richmond in 2013 as a permanent walking route for pedestrians to connect a number of downtown Richmond’s historic sites, attractions and neighborhoods, including 15 national historic landmarks. Join guides from the Valentine to explore historic sites on a 2-mile section of the Richmond Liberty Trail. Starting at the State Capitol, the walk will go down Main Street by the First Freedom Center then curve northwards along the last leg of the Slave Trail into Court End, the neighborhood of the White House of the Confederacy and the 1812 John Wickham House, before returning to explore the Capitol area and grounds. Free.

Easter Cookie Baking and Decorating. 2pm. Southern Season, 2250 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA. Spring is upon us and it’s time to decorate some cookies! In this fun hands-on class the cooking school staff will teach kids the techniques to “pipe and flow” like a pro and create beautiful and delicious treats. Ages 6-13. $20 for first child, $10 each additional child. Parents please join us for free!

Dominion Family Easter at Maymont. 10am-3pm. Maymont Carriage House Lawn. Enjoy one of Richmond’s favorite Easter traditions with egg hunts, crafts, games, live entertainment and other fun-filled activities. A few are free, but some activities require 1-4 tickets. Members can purchase tickets in advance. Ticket tables open at 10am and close at 2:30pm.

Easter Weekend with Peter Rabbit. 1pm-4pm. Lewis Ginter. Peter Rabbit greets visitors and poses for photographs. Concert by the Richmond Concert Band on the lawn at Bloemendaal House. Fee (Garden admission).

Eggstravaganza! Easter Egg Hunt at Carter Mountain. Starting at 12 noon. 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA. The Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 3-8 includes over 8,000 hidden eggs and one hayride. Free to attend the event. The Hunt is only $6.00 per child—ticket sale information is available online and sales are limited.

Bogeys Sports Park Mini Golf Easter Egg Hunt. Bogey’s Sports Park, 1675 Ashland Road, Manakin Sabot, VA, 23103. From 9am until the eggs are gone! Children 12 and under purchase a round of mini golf, find an egg somewhere on the course while you play and bring it inside for a prize! Limit one egg per player. Fee to play, egg hunt included.

WEPC Community Preschool Run for FUNd. 8:30am. Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Parkway, Henrico, VA. Tickets here. Family friendly kids’ mile and 5K to raise money for the WEPC Community Preschool Scholarship Fund. Preschool dash and Annual WEPC Easter Egg Hunt to follow. Fee to participate. Free to attend.

Petting Farm at Short Pump Mall.  Enjoy baby bunnies, chicks, ducks, lambs, and more. For more information, please call 804-360-1700. Free.

LEGO My Library. 10am-12noon. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227Join us to build, play and create with other kids in the community. Work together to create a lego world, use our ipads to make a stop motion movie, or the chromebook to build with virtual legos! All legos provided. Suitable for children ages 5 and up. For questions and info. Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236.

Richmond Raiders v. Alabama Hammers. 7pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee.

Sunday, April 5th

Easter Weekend with Peter Rabbit. 1pm-4pm. Lewis Ginter. Peter Rabbit greets visitors and poses for photographs. Easter Brunch in the Tea House by reservation (Sunday). Fee (Garden admission).

Easter on Parade. 1pm-5pm on the blocks between Allen and Davis Avenues. Each year more than 25,000 people converge upon the four-block site to celebrate the arrival of spring and the beauty of Monument Avenue, taking this once-a-year opportunity to stroll in the streets, which are closed to vehicular traffic. Music, arts, crafts, children’s activities, food, balloon artistry, a petting zoo, and of course, people and pet watching all are a part of the celebration which is, literally, a parade of Richmonders. The highlight of the event promises to be the ever-popular Pet Bonnet and People Bonnet Showcases, held at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively, on the Zayde R. Dotts Main Stage at Allen Avenue. Free.

Monday, April 6th

Magic with the Amazing Mr. B. 3:30 pm. Varina Library. How did he do that? Be dazzled by the amazing magic tricks of the Amazing Mr. B! Free.

All About Science. 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location. Educator-run projects, Science of Art demos, Movin’ Mania, and more. For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

Play, Learn, and Grow. 10:30am. Sandston Library. Playing helps your young child learn about language and other early literacy skills. Join our playgroup, make new friends and enjoy the fun! Ages 6- 36 months. Free.

Adventures in Vegetable Growing. 10am-2pm. Maymont Park. What can be grown in one square foot? Stop by Jack’s Vegetable Garden at the Children’s Farm to talk with Chesterfield Master Gardeners and learn how to grow your own food in a pot, a small garden or even in one square foot of soil! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free admission.

Family Scavenger Hunt. 10am-12noon. Maymont Grounds. Explore Maymont’s 100 acres in a whole new way! Crack secret codes for clues, and use maps and riddles to find your way around the estate in this family-friendly scavenger hunt. Different difficulty levels are available. Ages 4 and older; adult must accompany child. Register online; for information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 324. Limited space for walk-ups. $15 per family or group (up to four people)/$12 members.

Monday, April 6th to Friday, April 10th

The Science of Spring (Break). 9:30am-5pm. The Science Museum of Virginia. Dig up the dirt on Wicked Plants with some special activities! Conduct experiments with dehydrated plants, make leaf rubbings and handcraft seed balls in our Challenge Lab. Learn the science behind climate change with our Science on a Sphere® and rock out with a “beetbox” and apple piano! Don’t miss your chance to dissect plants and get the scoop about vermiculture this spring break!

Pinwheels & Pastimes. 1pm-3pm. Maymont Mansion Lawn. Join an old-fashioned play party with the games and toys that amused boys and girls 100 years ago. People from the past encourage you to try your hand at hoops or hopscotch, make a toy or compete in races and other fun games from yesteryear.  For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 329. Free.

Teen Job Hunter Boot Camp. 2pm. Registration required. Tuckahoe Area Library. This five-day, hands-on workshop will help you prepare to find and apply for jobs. We’ll guide you in creating your resume and give you tips on interviewing. Register one time to attend all five days, April 6-10. Sponsored by the Friends of the Tuckahoe Area Library.

Archaeology at Henricus: Spring Break Camp (ages 8 – 12). 9am-4pm. Participate in a week-long archaeological program at Henricus Historical Park.  Learn about the tools and strategies used to help locate and excavate sites and the archaeological methods used to create a living history museum.  Help sort, catalogue and clean artifacts found in the area and help us locate the 1611 Henricus fort! Take a field trip to an active archeological site.  Registration required by April 1 by calling 804-318-8797. Space limited. Cost:  $200/ Henricus Patrons $180.

A Rabbit on the Cabinet. 2pm-2:30pm. Maymont Mansion. Discover the enchanting home of Major and Mrs. Dooley as their nieces and nephews must have seen it more than 100 years ago. Find a lion in the fireplace, a swan in the bedroom, a rabbit on the cabinet and more as a Victorian nanny reveals the wonders within the mansion to children of all ages.For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 329. $5 per person.

The Secret Life of a Victorian House. 3pm-3:45pm. Maymont Mansion. The Dooleys’ housemaid brings the mansion to life during a family-friendly tour of the upstairs and downstairs of their grand home. Climb the backstairs to discover hidden doors and bells as you experience life and work at the estate 100 years ago. For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 329. $6 per person/$4 members.

Skunk Training Observation. 4pm-4:20pm. Eagle Amphitheater – Maymont. Meet Maymont’s skunk, Gulliver, and watch as an educator demonstrates how this laid back guy has been trained for special programs. No need to worry about getting sprayed, he’s been de-scented! Sign in at Raptor Valley by the eagle’s nest prior to the program. For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 333. Donations welcome.

All About Science. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA. We’ll be kicking off our Spring Break celebration with multiple activities with one central theme:  Science! For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

Tuesday, April 7th

Creative Clothing Construction for Kids.  10:30am. Twin Hickory Library. Registration required. The focus of this workshop is to give students, grades 6 – 12, the opportunity to create a wearable piece of art that explores cultural trends, nontraditional materials, and fine art processes. Similar to the Project Runway design style, students make wearable art by reconstructing clothing, found objects, and recycled materials. Inspiration comes from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts collection, artists, and fashion designers. Workshop attendance also gives students a snapshot of the annual Teen Stylin’ runway show held each year in December and open to all teens living in Virginia. This program is presented through the VMFA’s Art and Education Division.

Flying Squirrels. 6pm. The Diamond. Join the 2015 Flying Squirrels on the field at The Diamond during the team’s first batting practice of the season. The event is open to the public as fans are invited to stand on the field during batting practice. New food carts and concessions will be available. Free.

Animal Day. 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street. Parrots of Paradise – Parrots will be landing at CMoR.  These amazing rescue birds are a must see!  12pm-4pm. Our friends from The Teeny Tiny Farm will be back to warm our hearts and make us smile with their sweet farm friends.  They will be bringing at least one of the following: miniature horse, sheep, goats, rabbits, cows and pigs!  2pm-4pm. The Virginia Living Museum will be here doing what they do best: fostering care and protection of the balance of our natural world and all the animals in it.  For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

The Country Chicken. 10am-11:30am. Meadow Farm Museum. Ages 8-11. Explore the lives of chickens through hands-on activities including exploring nests, making an egg-based tempera paint, creating a whirly-bird, and cooking an egg open-hearth style. Registration required in advance. Information: eik@henrico.us. $7.50.

Celebrate Spring Break. 2pm. Fairfield Library. Lego/Block Build. Free.

Swamp Things. 10:30am-11:30am. Nature Center at Maymont. The swamp doesn’t seem like the most inviting habitat, but plenty of animals call it home. Meet several creatures of the swamp, including our new alligators, and discover how they survive in this wet and muddy world. Create a swamp thing of your own to take home! Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child.  Register online; for information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 333. Limited space for walk-ups. $10 per child/$8 members (includes Nature Center admission).

Stump the Scientist! 1pm-3pm. Science Museum of Virginia. Try your hand at leaving John Townsend, botanist and member of the Virginia Natural Heritage Program at the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, speechless! Have you been wondering about the strange plant growing in your yard? Bring in a clipping and get your questions answered!

Short Pump Pals Pretzel Time – Special Clubhouse Meeting. 11am. Short Pump Mall Food Court. Ever wonder how those pretzels twist? Well now you can find out! Come join us for our annual interactive pretzel rolling class with hosts from Auntie Anne’s. Free.

My First Pollinator Garden. 9:30am-10:30am. Children’s Farm Classroom, Maymont Park. What are pollinators and what do they need to live in the garden? Learn how to start a garden for butterflies and other pollinators, and learn what is needed to keep these important insects comfortable in their new home. Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child.  Register online or on site the day of program. Space is limited. For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 310. $5 per person.

Behind the Scenes. 1pm-1:30pm. Nature Center at Maymont. Walk through the Employees Only door for a special peek at the inner workings of the Maymont Nature Center. Thirteen aquariums and more than 200 animals require more care than meets the eye. Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child. Register at the Visitor Center desk on the day of the program. (Groups of 5 or more must register in advance.) For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 333 or 338. $6 per person/$3 members (includes Nature Center admission).

Wednesday, April 8th

Mommy & Me (and Daddy Too). 10am-11:30am. Willow Lawn, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond, VA. Live music and entertainment for children and parents. Activities designed to enhance parents’ interaction with children. Free.

Celebrate Spring Break. 2pm. Fairfield Library. Movie. Free.

RVA Sports Day. 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street. Sports activities all day. Richmond Raiders & Richmond Kickers will be here to hang out, play and talk sports.  For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Stay tuned for actual times. Free with Museum Admission.

Family Scavenger Hunt. 10am-12noon. Maymont Grounds. Explore Maymont’s 100 acres in a whole new way! Crack secret codes for clues, and use maps and riddles to find your way around the estate in this family-friendly scavenger hunt. Different difficulty levels are available. Ages 4 and older; adult must accompany child. Register online; for information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 324. Limited space for walk-ups. $15 per family or group (up to four people)/$12 members.

Thursday, April 9th

Children’s Storytime at Barnes & Noble. 10:30am. Barnes & Noble, Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA. Join us each Thursday for Children’s Storytime. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the folks from the Children’s Museum.

Day of Music! 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street. What better way to learn and have fun than with music?  On Thursday, our friends from Guitar Center will be coming out at 12pm to entertain us with music and will also be bringing instruments to share with the kids!  We’ll also have guest visitors the Virginia Repertory Theatre and Richmond Symphony Petting Zoo. For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

Celebrate Spring Break. 2pm. Fairfield Library. Games. Free.

Fairy Chase. 10:30am-12noon. Maymont Grounds. Do you believe in fairies? Enjoy a magical morning filled with whimsy and make-believe. Play games, make wishes, hear stories and receive your very own wings and wand as you learn what fairies like to do and where they like to hide. Imaginative clues guide you around the lawns of Maymont as you search for the winged creatures, finding treasures along the way. This enchanting program concludes with a sweet treat of fairy cakes and lemonade. Meet at Maymont’s Carriage House. Ages 4-8.  Register online by April 8; for information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 329. $22 per child/$18 members. Parents are welcome to observe the program.

My First Pollinator Garden. 9:30am-10:30am. Children’s Farm Classroom, Maymont Park. What are pollinators and what do they need to live in the garden? Learn how to start a garden for butterflies and other pollinators, and learn what is needed to keep these important insects comfortable in their new home. Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child.  Register online or on site the day of program. Space is limited. For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 310. $5 per person.

Behind the Scenes. 1pm-1:30pm. Nature Center at Maymont. Walk through the Employees Only door for a special peek at the inner workings of the Maymont Nature Center. Thirteen aquariums and more than 200 animals require more care than meets the eye. Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child. Register at the Visitor Center desk on the day of the program. (Groups of 5 or more must register in advance.) For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 333 or 338. $6 per person/$3 members (includes Nature Center admission).

Friday, April 10th

Minecraft Palooza. 2pm-4pm. Dumbarton Library. Come play Minecraft with us on library computers! We will set up a dedicated LAN server so that you can join in with others in the same Minecraft world! Gaming time is limited to 30 minutes a person (your gaming time will be sometime between 2 and 4 pm). Online registration is required. However, no registration is required if you bring your own laptop with a licensed copy of Minecraft. Free.

Pirate & Princess Day. 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street. On Friday, come out to see our lovely Princesses and Captain Greybeard for story time and adventures!  We guarantee that you’ll have even more fun if you wear your favorite costume! For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

Old Fashioned Playstations. 10am-11:30am. Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park. Ages 5+. Join in the fun as we play 19th-century games at Meadow Farm. Trundle a hoop, bowl 9-pins, balance on stilts, and join in a friendly game of tug-of-war. Drop in to learn about these and more as we discuss what people did for fun in the past. Free.

Arena Racing.  7:30pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee.

Family Scavenger Hunt. 10am-12noon. Maymont Grounds. Explore Maymont’s 100 acres in a whole new way! Crack secret codes for clues, and use maps and riddles to find your way around the estate in this family-friendly scavenger hunt. Different difficulty levels are available. Ages 4 and older; adult must accompany child. Register online; for information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 324. Limited space for walk-ups. $15 per family or group (up to four people)/$12 members.

Saturday, April 11th

Tracing Your Family Tree. 2:30pm. Glen Allen Library. Sylvia Elchinger from the Family History Center (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) will introduce you to resources and get you started on researching your family’s roots. Free.

See It Grow. 10am. Lowes. Spring is here and it’s time to start gardening! Your child will love learning about plants and watching them grow with this great kit! 10am. Local Lowes stores. Monster Jam is back at Lowe’s this weekend! Be sure to register your child to build this Monster Jam project featuring El Toro Loco®! Registration required. Free.

Seymour’s Birthday Bash! 10am-4pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond Central Location, 2626 W. Broad Street.On our final day of Spring Break festivities, we’ll be winding down with a carnival-themed party for our pal Seymour.  Since a party’s not a party unless there’s balloons, Balloons by Extreme will be on hand to really give us something to celebrate. In addition, there will be Caricature Artists, face-painting, snow cones & cotton candy and children will be able to help make Seymour a birthday card and then participate in a special birthday parade! For our satellite locations, we’ll be celebrating Spring Break with character visits, story time, giveaways and more!  Please check our events calendar as these dates draw nearer. Free with Museum admission.

Tredegar Battalion. 11am-11:30am. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Volunteers wanted! We are looking to recruit youngsters every Saturday at 11:30am to join the Tredegar Battalion. Discover how a Civil War soldier trained and fought with the rifle musket by drilling with a costumed interpreter. Program includes a blank, black powder firing.

Camp Life of the Common Soldier. 12noon. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Only a small amount of Civil War soldiers’ time was spent on the battlefield. What were they doing when they weren’t fighting? Visit with costumed interpreters portraying Union and Confederate soldiers to find out! Program includes a black powder firing.

American Lives, Richmond Voices: Cannon, Cartridges, & Canals. 1pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Join living historians as they portray three fascinating Richmonders in 1863! Tredegar Iron Works owner-operator, Joseph Reid Anderson; Tredegar’s canal fleet manager, William Brackens; and Confederate States Laboratory worker, Mary Ryan, will bring wartime Richmond to life in this exciting interactive program.

From Foundry to Fire! 2pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Learn about the importance of the cannon manufacturing capabilities of Tredegar Ironworks, as well as, the role field artillery played in the Civil War. A costumed artillery crew will explain the process of making and testing the cannon and then demonstrate its use on the battlefield.

Sheep to Shawl. 12noon-4pm. Meadow Farm Museum. Learn about wool and the methods used to process this unique fiber. Participate in hands-on activities such as carding, spinning and weaving. Make a wooly craft with the Friends of Meadow Farm. Watch members of Clotho’s Spinning Guild as they demonstrate the expert skills needed to produce a shawl and other products. Learn how sheep can be good listeners during a sheep dog demonstration. Enjoy historic music as while strolling the grounds of this beautiful 19th-century farm site. Free.

Richmond Raiders v. Columbus Lions.  7:00pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee.

Boot Camp for New Dads.  9am-Noon.  Locations vary.  Delivered by First Things First of Greater Richmond.  A unique father-to-father community-based workshop prepares and equips expectant dads to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates, and navigate their transformation into dads.  Fee.

Second Saturdays with The Story Lady. 1pm Barnes & Noble-Chesterfield Towne Center. Children’s storyteller and author, Ali Pfautz, aka The Story Lady, will entertain little ones with interactive tales and songs. Come join the fun! Free.

Sunday, April 12th

Kite Day. 1pm-4pm. Clover Hill Athletic Complex, Fields 7&8, 17701 Genito Road, Midlothian, VA. The entire family will enjoy a great day of kite flying. Children will enjoy a moonwalk, clown and other fun activities. Call to reserve a kite before they all fly away! Free.

Guided Tour: Brown’s Island. 1pm. Brown’s Island. Museum Educator Sean Kane will lead a walk over to Brown’s Island, a little island near Tredegar that played a significant role during the Civil War as the location of the Confederate States Laboratory. Tour topics include: the island’s workforce of young women, life as a prisoner of war on Belle Isle and Richmond’s evacuation fire.

Monday, April 13th

Life in Richmond During the Civil War. 7pm. Varina Library. This program will discuss the plight of Richmond women during the Civil War and how they sought to deal with the numerous social, political and economic crises that befell them during four long years of war. Most found creative ways to adapt both themselves and traditional gender roles accordingly in order to achieve personal survival and to help stabilize their war-torn society. Presented by National Park Ranger Ashley W. Luskey.

Foster Parent Orientation. 6pm-7pm. HopeTree Foster Care Offices, 3309 West Hundred Road, Chester, VA 23831. Could you help serve children in need of a loving and caring home? Please join HopeTree Foster Care on April 13th at 6:00 p.m. to learn more about how your family can become a foster family. Call (804) 201-9006 or email ShannonU@HopeTreeFS.org for more information. Free.

Tuesday, April 14th

Play, Learn, and Grow. 10:30am. Gayton Library. Playing helps your young child learn about language and other early literacy skills. Join our playgroup, make new friends and enjoy the fun! Ages 6- 36 months. Free.

Green Adventures for Homeschoolers. 2-4pm. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. Plant your own seasonal garden with edible flowers, aromatic herbs and tasty vegetables. Harvest various plant parts to prepare delicious garden recipes and experiment with useful plants that are used in scented soaps, plant-based dyes and nature-inspired works of art. $104 non-member / $72 member.

April 14th – April 18th

On-Stage Performances at Maymont. Times and locations vary. Enjoy family-friendly performances. Visit our On Stage page for more information. Funding provided by The E. Rhodes & Leona B. Carpenter Foundation. Free.

Wednesday, April 15th

Children’s Museum of Richmond $.15 Day. CMoR all locations. Enjoy the Children’s Museum for $.15 for child’s admission. (Adults regular admission). Take advantage of our amazing exhibits and activities that facilitate learning and joy through play. CMoR’s exhibits help children recognize and build on what is familiar and allow them to make new connections between experiences, people and places that surround them. CMoR’s exhibits are also designed to foster creativity and problem solving!

Thursday, April 16th

Children’s Storytime at Barnes & Noble. 10:30am. Barnes & Noble, Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA. Join us each Thursday for Children’s Storytime. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the folks from the Children’s Museum.

Create A Fancy T-Shirt Tote Bag. 2pm. Varina Library.  Registration required. With a little bit of cutting, a little bit of gluing and a little bit of sewing you will create a fantastic tote bag to wow your friends. For middle and high schoolers.

Curiosities of the Confederate Capital: Untold Richmond Stories. 7pm. Tuckahoe Library. Brian Burns, author of “Curiosities of the Confederate Capital: Untold Richmond Stories of the Spectacular, Tragic and Bizarre” will provide an entertaining and informative glimpse of Richmond during the Civil War era. Sponsored by the Tuckahoe Library Friends.

Play, Learn, and Grow. 10:00am. Dumbarton Library. Playing helps your young child learn about language and other early literacy skills. Join our playgroup, make new friends and enjoy the fun! Ages 6- 36 months. Free.

Bright Ideas. 11am-noon. Art Education Center Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ages 3 – 13 months, advance registration required | Discuss your baby’s developing senses, observe works of art that emphasize light and contrast, and then explore vibrant colors in the studio. $10 per baby/adult pair (VMFA members $8).

Friday, April 17th

$1 Family Target Night at CMoR. 5pm-7:30pm.Bring the whole family to enjoy what The Children’s Museum of Richmond – Central has to offer on the third Friday of every month for just $1 per person.CMoR welcomes groups that visit on Target $1 Family night! Please be sure to note our required ratio of 1 adult chaperon for every 5 children that check in.

Richmond Raiders v. Trenton Freedom.  7:00pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee.

Saturday, April 18th

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Are You Ready to Volunteer? 2-3pm. Gayton Library. Shanone Sport, Henrico County HR Analyst and Organizational Learning & Talent Development specialist will cover the types of jobs that volunteers do as well as the process for becoming a successful volunteer!

Camp Life of the Common Soldier. 12:00 pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar.. Only a small amount of Civil War soldiers’ time was spent on the battlefield. What were they doing when they weren’t fighting? Visit with costumed interpreters portraying Union and Confederate soldiers to find out! Program includes a black powder firing.

Tredegar Battalion. 11:30am. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Volunteers wanted! We are looking to recruit youngsters every Saturday at 11:30am to join the Tredegar Battalion. Discover how a Civil War soldier trained and fought with the rifle musket by drilling with a costumed interpreter. Program includes a blank, black powder firing.

All Heroes Day. 10am-1pm. Pole Green Park, 8996 Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville, Va. In honor of K-9 Veteran’s Day, Hanover Parks and Recreation, Hanover Hounds Search and Rescue, The Classy Canine and Friends of Hanover Dog Parks invite you and your special canine to the 3rd Annual Hanover K-9 Heroes Day. There will also be fun activities and contests for you and your furry friend, including the following: Dog Gone Spring Egg Hunt Frosty Paws eating contest Fastest Wagging Tail contest. Event is open to the public, with all dogs required to remain on a secure leash and have current license and rabies vaccination. Refreshments will be available for purchase for people and pets.

Firefighter Games & Festival. 10am-4pm. Short Pump Town Center. The annual Virginia Firefighter Games is an exciting competition and family festival celebrating our community’s first responders. Firefighters from across the region will participate in a skills competition – an intense, adrenaline-fueled obstacle course that duplicates the rigors firefighters face daily in the line of duty. Watch them live as they test their strength and endurance in a competition course as well as Jaws of Life and fire hose demonstrations, rappelling from an aerial firetruck and more. The family festival includes lots of fun activities for all ages including fire apparatus displays, demonstrations, children’s games, great food and music. RAIN OR SHINE. Free.

April Showers: A Celebration of Spring. 1pm-4pm. Twin Hickory Park, 5011 Twin Hickory Road, Glen Allen, VA. Join us as we celebrate spring with crafts, music, storytelling, games, as well as exhibits and activities led by Henrico Extension. Crafts include a rain gauge for your garden, cork sailboats, and spring foliage decor for your door. Other exhibitors include Henrico County Public Library, Henrico County Public Schools, and Keep Henrico Beautiful.

Make a “LEGO” Movie. 2:30pm. Tuckahoe Library. Registration required. Learn about stop-animation films and then create your own movie using Legos. For grades 3-5 only.

Amy Stewart Presents Wicked Plants. 1pm-3pm. Science Museum of Virginia. In her New York Times bestseller Wicked Plants: The Weed that Killed Lincoln’s Mother and other Botanical Atrocities, Amy Stewart takes on Mother Nature’s most appalling creations. Drawing on history, medicine, science and legend, Stewart will present tales of bloodcurdling botany that will enlighten and alarm even the most intrepid gardeners and nature lovers. This 45 minute talk will be followed by a book signing. Pre-registration is required, call 804.864.1400.

Heritage Weekend at Historic Bloemendaal. Noon-3pm. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. Enjoy tours of Bloemendaal House and imagine its early days as the original Lakeside Wheel Club. The weekend is full of music and activities highlighting the Garden’s past. Included with Garden admission.

Arena Racing USA.  7:00pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee.

Boot Camp for New Dads.  9am-Noon.  Locations vary.  Delivered by First Things First of Greater Richmond.  A unique father-to-father community-based workshop prepares and equips expectant dads to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates, and navigate their transformation into dads.  Fee.

American Lives, Richmond Voices: Cannon, Cartridges, & Canals. 1pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Join living historians as they portray three fascinating Richmonders in 1863! Tredegar Iron Works owner-operator, Joseph Reid Anderson; Tredegar’s canal fleet manager, William Brackens; and Confederate States Laboratory worker, Mary Ryan, will bring wartime Richmond to life in this exciting interactive program.

From Foundry to Fire! 2pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Learn about the importance of the cannon manufacturing capabilities of Tredegar Ironworks, as well as, the role field artillery played in the Civil War. A costumed artillery crew will explain the process of making and testing the cannon and then demonstrate its use on the battlefield.

Sunday, April 19th

Explore the Outdoors. 1pm-5pm. Huguenot Park, 10901 Robious Road, North Chesterfield, VA. Make tracks to Huguenot Park and the studios of the Community Idea Stations for a day of hands-on fun exploring science and nature. The educational programs of the Community Idea Stations, Science Matters and Ready to Learn, and Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation are co-hosting a special day in the park to give children and their families plenty of exciting outdoor experiences. Over forty local community groups with expertise in outdoor adventure, healthy living, and environmental science will engage you in activities ranging from nature walks to tree climbing, archery and fishing, paddle boarding (on dry land), gardening, camping, art making and much, much more. Free.

Heritage Weekend at Historic Bloemendaal. Noon-4pm. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. Enjoy tours of Bloemendaal House and imagine its early days as the original Lakeside Wheel Club. The weekend is full of music and activities highlighting the Garden’s past. Included with Garden admission.

Sunday Afternoon with the Classics. 2pm-3:30pm. The Armour House & Gardens. Enjoy a multimedia presentation and have an opportunity to get up close and personal with examples of the  Ford Model T and Model A automobiles.Named the world’s most influential cars of the 20th century, Henry Ford’s Model T and Model A automobiles are regarded as the first affordable vehicles that opened travel up to the middle-class American. Over 19 million were purchased between 1908 and 1932. Morris Cameron of the Richmond Region AACA will be your tour guide for an afternoon immersion into the mobilization of America and these unique automobiles! Rain date: Sun, Apr 26, 2-3:30pm. Information: nol@henrico.us

Monday, April 20th

Happy Earth Day!

The Electric Trip. 7pm-8:15pm. Tuckahoe Library, 1901 Starling Drive. Filmmaker Jonathan Slade and his wife Novia Campbell set out from Oakland, Maryland in their all-electric Nissan Leaf with one question in mind: how long will it take them to make it to Ocean City, Maryland – more than 500 miles – using only electric charging stations along the way? What unfolds is a 21st century adventure and a lesson for anyone interested in the development of alternative energy.  Popcorn and drinks will be served. Registration required. Free.

Tuesday, April 21st

Advance Care Planning. 12noon. Sandston Library. Registration required. Bon Secours & Sandston Library Education Series: Come join us as Rebecca Gruszkos, LCSW, ACHP-SW gives a presentation about planning in advance for senior care. Healthy snacks will be provided by the Sandston Friends group. Free.

Third Tuesdays with The Story Lady. 11am Barnes & Noble-Libbie Place. This is a new venue for The Story Lady! Ali Pfautz, local storyteller and author, will have kids giggling and wiggling during her interactive storytime full of stories, songs, and action rhymes!

Toddler Time. 10:30am-11am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227FREE Interactive early literacy storytime with music and movement for ages 18-36 months with an adult. Indoor playtime and crafts at the conclusion. For questions and information Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236.

Tuesday, April 21st – Sunday, April 26th

The Closet Concierge of Richmond Children’s Consignment Sale. Inside the Chesterfield Towne Center Mall near Sears.
April 21-April 25 (Tues-Sat) 10am-6:30pm
1/2 off Sale Sunday, April 26 Noon-6pm

Wednesday, April 22nd

Recycled Crafts. 3:30pm. Dumbarton Library. Visit Dumbarton on Earth Day and make a variety of crafts out of recycled materials. There will be crafts for all ages! Space is limited. Groups please call in advance. Free.

Medicare, Social Security and You. 7pm. Dumbarton Library. Interested in learning more about Medicare and when to file for Social Security? Join independent agent Mary Kate Creasey for answers!

Center Season – Eleone Dance Theatre. 7pm. Cultural Arts Center on Mountain Road just off exit I-295 at the Woodman Road South exit. Eleone dancers provide not just a dance performance, but a dance “experience” that inspires and energizes audiences of all ages. The company embodies exceptional artistry and has a diverse repertoire of works that are contemporary, modern, spiritual, rhythm and blues, African, as well as hip-hop in theme. This diversity enables audiences from many backgrounds and of all ages to enjoy its dance creations. Eleone’s works of dance inspire critical, intellectual thought from the community and requires the community to look at both historical and contemporary issues from a variety of viewpoints. Admission $20.

Thursday, April 23rd

Children’s Storytime at Barnes & Noble. 10:30am. Barnes & Noble, Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA. Join us each Thursday for Children’s Storytime. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the folks from the Children’s Museum.

Stories with Miss Tori. 10:30am-11:15am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227. Interactive early literacy family storytime with songs, stories, and rhymes for the whole family to enjoy. Indoor playtime and crafts at the conclusion. For questions and information Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236. Free.

Movin’ & Groovin. 11am-noon. Art Education Center Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ages 3 – 13 months, advance registration required | Focusing on the importance of building gross motor skills and movement in art, twist, swish, and groove through the galleries in this interactive infant class. $10 per baby/adult pair (VMFA members $8).

Center Season – Eleone Dance Theatre. 10am. Cultural Arts Center on Mountain Road just off exit I-295 at the Woodman Road South exit. Eleone dancers provide not just a dance performance, but a dance “experience” that inspires and energizes audiences of all ages. The company embodies exceptional artistry and has a diverse repertoire of works that are contemporary, modern, spiritual, rhythm and blues, African, as well as hip-hop in theme. This diversity enables audiences from many backgrounds and of all ages to enjoy its dance creations. Eleone’s works of dance inspire critical, intellectual thought from the community and requires the community to look at both historical and contemporary issues from a variety of viewpoints. Admission $10.

Land of Illustrators. 4:15pm-6pm. Art Education Center at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ages 5 – 8 | Focusing on landscape elements, read stories and explore techniques found in well-known children’s books. Create your own images inspired by these illustrated scenes. $20 (VMFA members $18).

Arena Racing USA.  7:30pm. Richmond Coliseum. Fee

Friday, April 24th

From Petals to Paper. 5pm-7pm. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Using pulp made from the instructor’s plants and flowers, families make their own natural, handmade paper and learn the history of this intriguing art form. $20 per child/adult pair (VMFA members $18).

Friday, April 24th – Saturday, May 2nd

Threads Consignment Events Spring/Summer 2015 Children’s Consignment Sale. Canterbury Shopping Center, 10616 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA 23238 (Corner of Pump & Patterson).
Friday, April 24 • 9am-7pm • Public Shopping
Saturday, April 25 • 9am-4pm • Public Shopping
Sunday,April 26 • 11am-4pm • Public Shopping
Weekday Shopping
Monday – Friday, April 27th – May 1st • 9am-1pm AND 3pm-7pm • Public Shopping
50% Off Sale
Saturday, May 2nd
8:30am-9:00am • Volunteer Presale
9:00am-4:00pm • Public Shopping

Saturday, April 25th

Going Home from Appomattox. 1pm-2pm. Walkerton Tavern. All ages. We know their story from 1861-1865, but what happened after Lee’s soldiers stacked their weapons for the last time at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9, 1865? Join Ernie Price, Chief of Education and Interpretation at Appomattox Court House National Park, as he explores the stories of Lee’s men in their own words as they embarked for home or in other cases far from it. Free.

World Tai Chi Day. 9:30am-noon. Eastern Henrico Recreation Center. Come out and be part of this international event! On the last Saturday in April, World Tai Chi Day will be celebrated in every time zone in the world! Starting at 10am in the first time zone and moving in a wave around the world, groups will gather together to practice Tai Chi. All are welcome! 9:30am: Warm up and learn basic Sun Style technique. 10am: World Tai Chi Celebration, group participation. 10:30am-12pm: Demonstrations. Instructor: Jack Fuller. Information: cla16@henrico.us. Free.

Woofstock. 10am-2pm.  Westchester Commons in Chesterfield. The Richmond Animal League (RAL) will present the 2015 Woofstock Festival, a family-friendly dog festival with music, adoptions, games, and fun. Fundraiser – create your team.

Donut Appreciation Storytime. 10:30am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227. Join us for a special storytime all about the delicious treat, DOUGHNUTS! There will be a craft, stories and of course doughnuts to enjoy! For questions and info. Call Miss Tori at 804.646.

The Richmond Ballet: The Enchanted Toy Shop.  Carpenter Theatre. Fee.

Celebrate the Art of Flowers: Paris in Springtime. 11am-3pm. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Take a trip back in time to Paris in the 19th century. Stroll among books and prints in the VMFA Bouquiniste tent sale. Enjoy the Zany Umbrella Circus featuring a tight wire walking elephant, and jugglers and acrobats, inviting you to engage in theatrical play. Set up an easel to capture the VMFA sculpture garden, participate in flower- inspired art activities, and view elaborate puppet shows in this springtime extravaganza. Free, no registration required.

Gardening with Kids. 9am-11am. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. Even little hands make good gardeners! Children’s Garden horticulturist Heather Veneziano shares tips on kid-friendly gardening techniques and suggestions for plant selections gleaned from her experience in the Children’s Garden and with her own young child. 1 session = 2 hrs.  GES: HL, 2, elective. Note: This workshop is for adults.  $32/$20 member. 

Boot Camp for New Dads.  9am-Noon.  Locations vary.  Delivered by First Things First of Greater Richmond.  A unique father-to-father community-based workshop prepares and equips expectant dads to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates, and navigate their transformation into dads.  Fee.

American Lives, Richmond Voices: Cannon, Cartridges, & Canals. 1pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Join living historians as they portray three fascinating Richmonders in 1863! Tredegar Iron Works owner-operator, Joseph Reid Anderson; Tredegar’s canal fleet manager, William Brackens; and Confederate States Laboratory worker, Mary Ryan, will bring wartime Richmond to life in this exciting interactive program.

From Foundry to Fire! 2pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Learn about the importance of the cannon manufacturing capabilities of Tredegar Ironworks, as well as, the role field artillery played in the Civil War. A costumed artillery crew will explain the process of making and testing the cannon and then demonstrate its use on the battlefield.

Camp Life of the Common Soldier. 12:00 pm. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar.. Only a small amount of Civil War soldiers’ time was spent on the battlefield. What were they doing when they weren’t fighting? Visit with costumed interpreters portraying Union and Confederate soldiers to find out! Program includes a black powder firing.Tredegar Battalion. 11:30am. The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar. Volunteers wanted! We are looking to recruit youngsters every Saturday at 11:30am to join the Tredegar Battalion. Discover how a Civil War soldier trained and fought with the rifle musket by drilling with a costumed interpreter. Program includes a blank, black powder firing.

Sunday, April 26th

7th Annual Full Circle Round Up. 2pm-6pm. Innsbrook Picnic Area. This is a fun outdoor event for the entire family with food trucks, bounce houses, fishing, a DJ & Dancing, a Photo Booth, Arts & Crafts, Field Games and MORE!  Come enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon wit​h​ your friends and family!

All-Star Game Day. 2pm-5pm. Eastern Henrico Recreation Center. If you love sports, games, contests, and challenges, this event is for you! Challenge your abilities on one of the giant inflatables, play life-size games, or compete to see if you have the athletic ability of a champion. The event will also feature a variety of fitness and sports demonstrations, along with several special guests. Free. Concessions will be available for purchase.

The Richmond Ballet: The Enchanted Toy Shop.  Carpenter Theatre. Fee.

Enjoy a Fun (Free!) Day April 26 at Camp Hanover. 2pm-6pm. Camp Hanover, 3163 Parsleys Mill Road, Mechanicsville, VA. Named Best Overnight Camp for Kids by Richmond Magazine, August 2014.  From 2 – 6 p.m. (rain or shine) your family and friends can enjoy s’mores; hayrides; hot dogs; canoes; paddleboats; goats; chickens; face painting; 4-square; campfire cooking; hiking; fishing; and much, much more. Take the camp tour; and register for one of the fantastic camping experiences waiting for YOU this summer.  For more information, visit: www.camphanover.org. Fee.

Monday, April 27th

All About Herbs and Veggies. 10:30am-11:30am. Lavender Fields Farm, 1300 Winfrey Road, Glen Allen, VA. Go deeper! This class builds upon your growing experience to take it to the next level. Grow from simply getting by and move towards thriving with tips and hints to enhance your gardens productivity and its overall health. Learn proper planting times, spacing, companion planting, growing techniques, fertilization, harvesting and plant rotation. Fee: $15 per person.

Tuesday, April 28th

Toddler Time. 10:30am-11am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227FREE Interactive early literacy storytime with music and movement for ages 18-36 months with an adult. Indoor playtime and crafts at the conclusion. For questions and information Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236.

Wednesday, April 29th

Paw Patrol. 9am-10am. Dorey Park, 2999 Darbytown Road, Henrico, VA 23231. Ages 5+. Let’s create new friends, both furry and human, as we take a one-hour power walk around the lake or through the park trails. Improve overall fitness levels for both dogs and owners as we walk at a pace that’s not quite a run, but fast enough to leave you both invigorated! Complimentary water will be provided for both dogs and their people. Trail maps and fitness tips will be shared. Dogs must be leashed and up-to-date on vaccinations. Free.

The Elves and the Shoemaker. 10:15am-11am. Swift Creek Mill Theater. 17401 Jefferson Davis Highway, South Chesterfield, VA. The Grimm Brothers’ classic tale of the poor cobbler who gets some unexpected help from some tiny friends….friends who come to his shop in the middle of the night to do their job. Lots of music, lots of laughs, and the lots of heart as the audience learns the value of work and compassion. The perfect Springtime treat!

Thursday, April 30th

Stylin’ Still Life. 4:15pm-6pm. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ages 5 – 8 Explore still life compositions and painting styles by famous French artists like Van Gogh and Manet. Discuss shapes, contrast, and complementary colors to use in vibrant still life paintings. $20 (VMFA members $18).

Stories with Miss Tori. 10:30am-11:15am. Ginter Park Library, 1200 Westbrook Ave., Richmond, VA, 23227. Interactive early literacy family storytime with songs, stories, and rhymes for the whole family to enjoy. Indoor playtime and crafts at the conclusion. For questions and information Call Miss Tori at 804.646.1236. Free.

Children’s Storytime at Barnes & Noble. 10:30am. Barnes & Noble, Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA. Join us each Thursday for Children’s Storytime. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the folks from the Children’s Museum.