Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo

Tifft Nature Preserve February Events

2012-01-29T14:47:00.001-05:00

Thank you Lauren for sending this information!

Groundhog Day Wellness Walk
Thursday, February 2 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Winter is on its way out, but what does the groundhog say about it? Come enjoy a walk around Tifft, ending with a short presentation about Groundhog Day’s traditions and myths. $3 donation per person suggested. Pre-registration is encouraged. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Frosty Fun Festival
Saturday, February 4 from 10 AM-2 PM

Celebrate winter in western New York and shake off your cabin fever! Drop in and join us for guided snowshoe* hikes, super fun indoor winter crafts, a snow animal sculpture contest (with prizes!), animal tracking and animal adaptations in winter hikes, snowflake investigation station, Frosty Fun Olympics, liquid nitrogen demonstrations and more! There will also be food and hot beverages available for purchase. Event will take place with or without snow! *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration is encouraged. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Little Tykes Snowshoe Stroll
Monday, February 13 from 10-11 AM for Ages 3-5

Snowshoes aren’t just for the young at heart, so bring your little one to try out snowshoeing in our bear-claw youth snowshoes. Caregivers are welcome to give them a try too! Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $3 additional children with the same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Nature Nuts: Brrr! It’s Cold Outside
Wednesday, February 15 from 4-5 PM for Ages 6-8

Join us after school to have fun exploring while learning about the wonders of the natural world at Tifft Nature Preserve! Since this program will be held mostly outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather. Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $4 each additional child with same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Starry Snowshoe Stroll*
Friday, February 17 from 7-8:30PM for Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

A star-filled sky and snow on the ground make a perfect setting for a snowshoe stroll. We will provide the snowshoes. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Program will take place with or without snow. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

WILD about Winter Discovery Camp
Tuesday, February 21-Thursday, February 23 from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM for Ages 5-8

What do you think animals do in winter? What do you like to do? Exploration of nature in winter is full of surprises and lots of fun too. Daily snack provided. Please bring lunch in a reusable container. Non-Members: $100 per child. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%.Late pick-up: 3:45 – 5:00 PM at $5 per half hour, per day. Arrangements must be made at the time of pre-registration. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 201. Registration Deadline: February 14

Family Snowshoe Hike*
Friday, February 24 from 7-8:30 PM for Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Bring the family to stretch their legs and see what Tifft is like in the wintertime. We’ll end by having a warm drink in Tifft’s cabin. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Program will take place with or without snow. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella comes to Artpark!

2012-01-28T20:13:00.000-05:00

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella will be at Artpark this summer, August 9-17, 2012!

Originally created for television as a star vehicle for Julie Andrews in 1957, its broadcast was seen by 100 million viewers and has since been adapted for the stage. Cinderella boasts all the trademarks of wonderful songs and lavish dance numbers associated with the classic works of the award-winning duo, Rodgers & Hammerstein, who are widely acknowledged as the all-time 'Kings of Broadway.'

Tickets go on sale March 16, 2012 at 10am. Visit the Artpark website for performance times and ticket price information.

Personally, I am very excited to hear of another great opportunity for families to enjoy the arts in WNY!

Kids Night at Wegmans!

2012-01-27T20:28:00.000-05:00

The Wegmans on NF Blvd in Amherst offers Kids Night every Wednesday from 5-7pm in the cafe. FREE food and FREE activities = FUN!

Wednesday, February 1:

Activity is Peek-a-Boo-Groundhog Craft. Kids get a FREE dessert!

Leave a comment below if a Wegmans near you offers these sort of events for kids and/or families! Be sure to leave the location!

Night Lights at the Gardens

2012-01-26T13:00:00.001-05:00

Love this event!

The interior of the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens will once again be illuminated with theatrical and interactive lighting over three-weeks in February.

Night Lights at the Gardens begins February 1 and takes place Wednesday through Saturday evenings on the following dates: Feb. 1-4; Feb. 8-11 and Feb. 15-18. Night Lights hours are 6-9pm and until 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for Garden members, seniors (55+) and students (13+), $5 kids 3-12 and kids under 3 are free. Guest passes and coupons are not valid during this show. Tickets can be purchased online at www.buffalogardens.com or at the door.

You can read a great article (includes beautiful pictures) from Buffalo Rising if you need more information on Night Lights at the Gardens!

Mom Review and Giveaway: 2BME Firefighter App

2012-01-26T12:54:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the 5 winners of the 2BME Studios Firefighter App! I have emailed each of you and need to hear back from you within 48 hours in order for you to receive the Firefighter App.
aj_olson21@
~~Pfal6135@~~ (did not reply within the allotted 48 hour time frame)
larchabald@
fuzzydolly@
Lindabonczyk@
Alternate winner: mbrint...@

Thanks to everyone who entered! (Winners were chosen using random.org.)

2BME Studios is an iOS App Developer based in Buffalo, NY whose mission is to provide high quality children’s apps that educate and entertain children about specific occupations. The 2BME product line is being developed with young children in mind, by providing children with an interactive tutorial that teaches them how to play and a classroom that re-enforces what they have learned.

When 2BME Studios contacted me about reviewing their Firefighter App I was excited to give it a try...ahem...I mean I was excited for my kids to give it a try. As a very new iPhone user my kids have yet to get their grimy hands on my phone so they were surprised when I invited them to "play" on my phone.

I started with the 5 year old. He began with the 2BME tutorial which explained the signs and motions (swipe, drag, tap) needed to go through the application.

Next, on to PLAY at the Fire Station. I was very, very impressed. A fireman took us on a tour of the fire station. He explained what happens at the station step by step. Beginning at the outside of the station, checking out the firetrucks, receiving an emergency call and responding to the call. During each step there were many opportunities for user interaction (including "driving" the fire truck to an emergency call!)

I don't want to give it all away but let me mention a couple of highlights. The user can slide the firefighter down the pole inside the station and then dress him in his fireman gear. Also, I love the exploration of all the things on the fire truck and the explanation of what the fire men do with those things. However, my favorite part is when the user can actually put out a fire!

There is a great option on this app called "classroom". Classroom is a fun way for the user to learn about fires and what to do when there is a fire. There are also multiple choice questions about the fire truck equipment that was introduced and explained during the PLAY at the fire station!

Real quickly - my 3 year old daughter really liked this app but needed quite a bit more guidance in navigating the swiping, dragging and tapping. (This has nothing to do with the application but more to do with the fact that she has never been allowed to touch my phone and had no idea what to do with it!) With a little bit of practice I am sure she would have become a pro!

I loved this app! I loved how interactive it was for the kids and how it was a learning experience for both of them. 2BME has done an amazing job thoroughly exploring what a firefighter does and making it fun for kids! We are so lucky to have businesses such as this in WNY! I can't wait to see what 2BME Studios comes out with next!

THE GIVEAWAY:

2BME Studios is offering to give 5 Fun 4 Kids readers the 2BME Firefighter App! Remember, this app is for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. If you are interested in entering this giveaway, please leave your email address in the comment section at the bottom of this post. (I do not keep email addresses and all of them will be deleted at the end of this contest) OR send your email address to me @ fun4kidsinbuffalo (at) gmail (dot) com.

Contest ends January 25, 2012 at 10pm. Winners will be chosen using random.org

Disclosure: 2BME provided this app to me free of charge to facilitate this review.

Saturday Fun 1/28/2012

2012-01-26T05:46:00.003-05:00

Story Time with Madeline at Brighton Place Library in Tonawanda - 10:30am

Beaded Bracelet Workshop ($)

Beloved orphan and friend to many, Madeline will be at Brighton Place for Story time and an informal meet and greet. This dear sweet girl with the yellow hat has captured the hearts of so many through her many adventures and endearing spirit. Come down to Brighton Place and share in the excitement of Madeline! Registration is required. FREE

City of Tonawanda Winterfest (most events indoors) FREE

Meet Cat in the Hat at B is for Books in Orchard Park - 11am-3pm FREE

Kids can meet, hug and high-five the famous Cat, have their photo taken and enjoy some Seuss crafts and activities. FREE

Polar Plunge Golf Tournament at Adventure Landing Tonawanda location.

Join us for our annual Mini Golf Tournament! Tournament Details:
Begins at 10am 2-Round Tournament Great Prizes Only $5 Per Guest!

Winter Wonderland in the Woods at Reinstein Woods from 1-4pm

Events include: SPCA wildlife department presentations with live birds at 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 PM; listen to winter nature stories at 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 PM; Kids can make winter nature crafts, such as pinecone bird feeders, snowglobes and track pictures and much more! FREE

Build a Dinosaur (Build-a-Saurus) at Lowes Build and Grow from 10am-11am. Must pre-register. FREE

Made in America Winterfest FREE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29th:

Clarence Winterfest at Clarence Town Park from noon-5pm FREE

Buffalo Soup-Fest ($ - but kids 10 and under free)

Winterfest 2012 in Orchard Park at Chestnut Ridge Park from 10am-4pm FREE

Do you want many of the month's FREE events delivered to your inbox? Contact me and send your email address to sign up for the Fun 4 Kids "Freevent" Newsletter. February's newsletter will arrive to your inbox on January 29, 2012

Beaded Bracelet Workshop

2012-01-25T20:03:00.000-05:00

I thought this looked like a fun opportunity for the older kids. Just $6 for a 2 hour class which includes all materials for a custom bracelet!

Beading Class and Workshop on Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 1-3pm at the Erie Canal Discovery Center, 24 Church St., Lockport

The Erie Canal Discovery Center is pleased to offer an educational program presented by Dorathy Gallo & Linda Van Buskirk of Beaded Finery. Participants will be taught basic beading techniques while gaining insight into more advanced design concepts. Students will also learn about the historic and artistic inspiration that contributes to the fine work that these local artisans produce. All the materials are provided to create a unique bracelet using beads selected by the students.

This program is open to the public for ages 12 and up. Space in this class is limited and reservations are strongly suggested. Call the Discovery Center at 439-0431 for more information.

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY!

2012-01-25T19:48:00.000-05:00

Consigning with Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY is as easy as 1-2-3!
1. Register as a consignor @ www.wnybellakids.com
2. Hang 'em, Enter 'em, and Tag 'em your items using our online system.
3. Drop 'em off with us for our 4-day sale!
THEN sit back and wait for a BIG paycheck!!!!

***If you participate in other kids' consignment events in WNY, our online system allows you to use others' tags! NO retagging necessary to sell with us! So register today! Email us with any questions: info@wnybellakids.com

Winterfest at the Made in America Store

2012-01-25T09:20:00.001-05:00

Made in America Store will host Winterfest 2012 this Saturday, January 28th from 11am-4pm!

Events include performances by Ricky Lee, woods carvings by Matt Hannah, sledding (weather permitting) and Alpacas from Maple View Alpacas!

The Made in America store is located in Elma, NY. Get all the Winterfest details on the website.

Clarence Winterfest

2012-01-24T20:05:00.001-05:00

The 2012 Clarence Winterfest takes place this Sunday, January 29th from Noon to 5pm at the Clarence Town Park in Clarence, NY. (10405 Main Street, Clarence)

Ice Skating, food, sledding, hayrides, chili cookoff, petting zoo and more. More info call 407-2162 Clarence Youth Bureau or 631-3888 Clarence Chamber.

Get more details here! Thanks to Kristi and Sharon for the info!

Buffalo Soup-Fest

2012-01-24T11:53:00.001-05:00

Yum! The 2012 Buffalo Soup Fest is this SUNDAY, January 29th from 11am-8pm! We've never been but some of the soups look delicious!

As I'm browsing the Buffalo Soupfest website there are a few things I see that look fun for your kids. (Admission for kids 10 and under is FREE!)

Mr. No the Balloon Guy will be there (my favorite balloon artist!). Also, it looks as though Dora and Spongebob will be there for pictures.

Event takes place at the Millennium Hotel, from 11am-8pm. $5 admission for adults and kids under 10 are free. All soups can be purchased with “Soup Bucks” once you are at the event. All Soup Bucks are $1 each and samples are in 2oz and 4oz portions.

Honestly, I'm trying to imagine my family with 3 little ones 5 and under at this event. I'm picturing soup everywhere...

(Over)Night at the Museum - CSI Style! - Feb 4-5

2012-01-23T20:28:00.000-05:00

Pre-register by January 27, 2012!

The following from the Buffalo Museum of Science:

Experience the museum overnight with your family after the lights dim and the doors close. Work together with our security guards to solve a museum mystery and fall asleep in the museum's halls! Includes admission to CSI: The Experience. Click here to learn more or to register.

Winterfest 2012 Orchard Park, NY

2012-01-23T19:58:00.000-05:00

Great event! Winterfest in Orchard Park on Sunday, January 29th, 2012 from 10am-4pm. Read about all the fun by clicking on the flyer below:

Family Roller Skating Package

2012-01-23T06:08:00.002-05:00

Pay just $15 for a family roller-skating package at Spinners Rink! Including admission, skate rental, pizza, and soda for four (a $36 value) or give your adolescents something to Tweet about with $20 for admission and skate rental for four (14 and under) at Spinners Friday Tween Night (regularly $40). With a definitively danceable soundtrack and a family-friendly atmosphere, Spinners is sure to get more comments than the latest viral video.

Read the fine print and get the details here!

Spinners Rink is located in West seneca, NY

Saturday Fun 1/21/2012

2012-01-21T07:06:00.000-05:00

AC Moore: Fancy Nancy Design a Tiarra and Storytime 10am-noon for ages 3 and up. FREE Make it Take it (Amherst, Cheetowaga and Clarence locations)

Happy Feet at the Central Library at 1pm Ring of Knowledge Main Floor FREE

See other FREE activities at a library near you here!

Winter Trails Day Celebration at Tifft Nature Preserve from 9am until noon. FREE

FLURRIOUS in Delaware Park FREE

Pinkalicious Party at Monkey See, Monkey Do Children's Bookstore in Clarence, NY from 11 am - noon.

You'll be tickled pink with this adventure that's just right for kids trying new activities. Story reading, craft, and snack. Best suited for children ages 3 and up. Registration required. FREE

Family Film Festival at the Riviera Theatre at 11am. Cost: $2

Wizard of Oz exhibit opens at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY ($)

Get Squirrelly at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10:30am

Come celebrate Squirrel Appreciation Day! Through fun activities and crafts, learn about local squirrels and how they survive the long winter. For children ages 5 to 8. Materials fee = $2.00 per child; Friends of Reinstein members = $1.00 per child. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up. ($2)

Mothertime Marketplace Consignment Event

2012-01-20T10:41:00.000-05:00

Mothertime Marketplace Western New York's Largest Seasonal Children's Consignment Event!

Check out Mothertime Marketplace Spring 2012 sale dates:

Friday, March 16th 10am-7pm
Admission: $3.00/adult Kids are FREE!

Saturday, March 17th 10am-3pm
Admission: $2.00/adult Kids are FREE!

Saturday is our first annual KID'S DAY! Come join us for games and activities for your little ones and do some shopping too!

Sunday, March 18th 10am-1pm (50% off sale (most items))
FREE Admission!!

Come experience WNY's LARGEST seasonal children's consignment event this spring at the Hamburg Fairgrounds. Spacious shopping, room for strollers and children. Over 25,000 gently used name brand children's items priced to sell! Don't miss out on the deals and steals at Mothertime marketplace!

We are still accepting consignors, space is limited. Visit our website www.mothertimemarketplace.com to register today!!

Mom Review: Disney on Ice Treasure Trove

2012-01-19T13:01:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Feld Entertainment I was able to take my 2 oldest to Disney on Ice Treasure Trove last night. My kids have never been to an ice show before and it has literally been 20 years since I was at one!

The show was awesome! We were provided with tickets 3 rows back from the ice so we had a great view.

The show began with a guy and girl coming out to get the crowd "hyped". Honestly, what followed was 10 minutes of a pretty ridiculous pre-show warm-up with The Incredibles and a lot of other skaters dessed up in work out clothes. I'm guessing this is a typical type of thing that happens at these shows as it gives late-comers a chance to get settled, take the kids to the bathroom once more, spend more money on over-priced concessions, etc.

Finally, the "real" show begins. I'm not going to get into specifics about the show because I don't want to spoil it for you if you're going this week. I mean, come on, it's Disney, right? It's going to be an incredible show!

From a mom's perspective, my 2 concerns for my 5 year old and 3 year old were: 1. The "scary" factor and 2. The noise factor

Besides a pop from a firecracker in the first half of the show (which scared me more than it scared the kids) and 2-3 cannon "fires" the noise factor was not a factor. (Really, the canon fire was so quiet. It was more just the sound of the ball hitting the ice.)

As far as the "scary" factor, yes there were 2-3 very intense (not really scary) moments. During the Peter Pan/Captain Hook segment the fight is pretty intense. My 5 year old's eyes were bulging and the 3 year old had both of her hands over her mouth. After the intermission Disney has a Lion King segment (which was SO well done, by the way!) It was also quite intense and I think my kids found some of the costumes/masks to be a little scary looking (my son has a weird thing about people in masks).

The great thing about the "intense" parts of the show is that they don't last long and they are always followed by a light-hearted, calm part of the show.

Now, for some "non-show" information and advice. I'm probably not supposed to say this but bring your own drinks and snacks if you want to avoid spending $15 on a light-up cup with a slushie in it. $15!! Be prepared, concession people are walking around with all sorts of cool, light-up toys and other Disney "stuff". These range in price, the light-up toy I asked about was $22. $22!

I think because I haven't been to a show like this in years I was definitely having sticker shock! I mean, come on, $15 for a program about the show?? Personally, I would rather spend more money on a close parking spot as we were almost frozen with cold from walking up to the First Niagara Center both before and after the show.

Now I understand why the most popular question I was asked about this show is "Where can I get a discount code?" Parents want to have a little money to buy something special for the kids at events like this!

On the drive home after the show I asked the kids to each tell me their favorite part of the show. (My favorite part was flying Tinkerbell and her fairy wand/dust!) My 3 year old daughter's favorite part was the crocodile during the Peter Pan/Captain Hook and my 5 year old was all about the pirate "battle"! Great show - we highly recommend it!

Were you at Disney on Ice last night? Are you going to the show? Leave a comment and let us know how the kids like it!

Disclaimer: We left a few minutes before the end of the show...it was a school night! So, I'm sure we must have missed the absolute best grand finale!

The Wizard of Oz Exhibit Opening at Strong National Museum of Play

2012-01-17T20:37:00.001-05:00

This brings back memories! When I was a child and the Wizard of Oz came on TV, this was about the only time of year my mom would let my brother and I stay up late. We would lay on the floor in our basement and always, always we would fall asleep watching The Wizard of Oz!

The Wizard of Oz exhibit is opening the weekend of January 21-22, 2012 at Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY.

Great description sent to me from the Museum of Play:

In the exhibit, journey from the Gale Farm to Oz and explore Munchkinland, the Crossroads, the Witch’s Castle, and Emerald City. Visit Professor Marvel’s wagon. Create your own tornado in Dorothy’s bedroom. Explore vibrant munchkin houses and learn more about Dorothy's friends, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. Enter Emerald City and create a “Horse of a Different Color" and more!

ETA: Strong National Museum of Play is in Rochester, NY! our family highly recommends visiting - it is worth the drive! Read my short Mom Review here.

FLURRIOUS 2012 (Delaware Park)

2012-01-16T23:54:00.004-05:00

ETA: With the lack of snow in Buffalo so far, there appear to be a few changes in the FLURRIOUS schedule. I would suggest you check out the blog link below or the Olmstead Flurrious Facebook page for updated information.

Great event! I love what Buffalo has to offer in the winter!

Information provided by the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy:

FLURRIOUS!, Western New York’s park-centered winter festival returns for its second year at Buffalo’s Delaware Park on Saturday, January 21st, 2012! FLURRIOUS! is a FREE admission outdoor event, presented by the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy that promises to be fun-filled and action packed. The day’s events begin at 9:00am with the “Flurrious Forecast” fun run and continue until 10:00pm!

Visit the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Blog for additional details!

FREE: Chinese New Year Celebration at Monkey See Monkey Do

2012-01-16T19:58:00.002-05:00

Monkey See Monkey Do Children's Bookstore offers this fun, FREE event on Monday, January 23rd!

Chinese New Year Celebration from 10:30 - 11:30am!

Introduce the customs of Chinese New Year to the youngest readers: shopping for fresh flowers, special New Year's dinner, receiving red envelopes from Grandma and Grandpa, and watching the spectacular Chinese New Year's parade! Story reading, craft, and snack.

Registration required to ensure they have enough materials for all children.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 16th, 2012

2012-01-16T07:41:00.000-05:00

Tonawanda Winterfest - a weekend event with a couple of FREE things happening on Monday the 16th.

History Center of Niagara County event (registration required/$10 per child) Children ages 7-12 are invited to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the History Center of Niagara County on Monday, January 16, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FREE admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science

TOPS Junior Chef Winter Camp West Seneca locations. 10am-1pm for $25 per child. Please register in advance.

ONE COOL FRIEND at Monkey See, Monkey Do in Clarence, NY from 10:30am-noon for ages 5 and up ($12 per child) Register in advance.

If you use good manners, can you get a penguin as a pet? Join us for a morning of winter fun with penguins; reading just-released, One Cool Friend. Ages 5 and up. 20% discount on this book purchase.

The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site is offering half price admission throughout the entire long weekend. Visit the TR Site for detailed information.

FREE classes and programs at the JCC/Getzville location.

ETA: Special events at Explore and More Children's Museum. OPEN 10-5 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Kids on the Block Puppet Show 11 a.m.; puppet making 12 - 3 p.m

Itty Bitty Animal Yoga at the Buffalo Zoo

2012-01-15T22:44:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the Buffalo Zoo for sending the following information!

Itty Bitty Animal Yoga

Let's move with the animals! During this eight-week session, we will be joined by special guest, Bekah Starr, a yoga instructor with Sproutin' Yoga, to let your children's imaginations and bodies run wild! Through interactive games, animal encounters, animated postures and basic yoga principles, we will enjoy a unique opportunity to foster creativity, focus and movement while learning more about animals at the Buffalo Zoo.

Sessions begin on March 2 and continue through April 27. Class times are 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. for children ages 9-17 months and 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for children ages 18-23 months. The price is: $80.00 per adult/child pair. Discounts will be given for a second child in the same age group. To register or receive more information, please call (716) 995-6128 or register here in advance.

Bella Kids Spring Consignment Event

2012-01-15T15:13:00.004-05:00

The Bella Kids Spring Consignment Event has announced their 4-day fun and bargain-filled schedule taking place in the stylish retail location of Premier Place Plaza @ 7980 Transit Road, Williamsville.

Thursday, March 29: VIP PRIVATE PREVIEW SALE, HOURS 4-8PM
4-6pm for volunteers
6-8pm for consignors and vendors

Friday, March 30: PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 10AM -8PM
***Free goody bags for the first 50 shoppers.

Saturday, March 31: BELLA KIDS FUN DAY & PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 10AM - 8PM
Fun Day Events include Face painting, arts/crafts table, Bringing books to life, etc. during 11am-4pm

Sunday, April 1: 50% OFF PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 11AM - 5PM
*Most items will be discounted at 50% off.

Looking to earn extra $$$ in 2012? Consign your gently used, brand name baby to tween clothing, toys, and gear with Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY. Earn up to 75% sales profits which adds up to be a big paycheck after their 4-day sale. Register @ www.wnybellakids.com!

Want Bella Kids to do the work? Have baby to tween items but no time? Bella Kids offers a consignor option where they tag, enter, and hang your items... just email them: info@wnybellakids.com for details!

Saturday Fun 1/14/2012

2012-01-13T20:43:00.000-05:00

Pottery Barn Kids event for Adults and Kids. "Our experts will help you organize the clutter with stylish storage for nurseries, playrooms and bedrooms. Plus, kids can join in the fun with a FREE crafting activity that will help keep treasured mementos organized." (FREE)

Meet Tacky the Penguin at B is for Books in Orchard Park, NY. Event begins goes from 10am-2pm. (FREE)

Tonawanda Winterfest (FREE)

TOPS mini cooking class. Best to register in advance. Get the details here. ($5)

Juggling and Balloon Magic Children's Event at Brighton Place Library at 10:30am.

Come down to Brighton Place with your children and share in the magic and wonders of Gravitational Bull as they share their talent(s) in the art of juggling and balloon creations. This program is free and open to the public. Ideal for ages 4-10 years old. Registration is required. (FREE)

Family Fitness Extravaganza at the Ellicott-Masten YMCA from 9am-3pm. 585 William Street, Buffalo, NY 14206

The Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA wants to help you and your family live healthier in 2012! The entire family will enjoy a free day of classes, including Gospel Aerobics, Zumba®, Hip-Hop, Kickboxing, Boot Camp, Open Swim and much more! There will even be great prizes given out! For more information and a complete schedule of activities please call the branch at 845-5440 or stop on down! (FREE)

The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site is offering half price admission Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Get more details at the TR site.

FREE classes and programs at the JCC/Getzville location!

Family Film Festival at the Riviera Theatre - cost $2. Showing Puss in Boots at 11am.

SUNDAY: FREE Family Film Series at Shea's.

MLK Jr. Day on Monday, January 16th, 2012. View all events here! Some are FREE!

Theatre of Youth presents Ben Franklin's Apprentice

2012-01-13T19:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the Theatre of Youth for sending along this information!

Theatre of Youth, Buffalo's only professional theatre company devoted to children and families, will kick off the New Year with BEN FRANKLIN'S APPRENTICE opening on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 7:00 pm. Opening night will also feature an interactive demonstration of electricity, sponsored by the New York State Power Authority, starting at 6:00 pm.

BEN FRANKLIN'S APPRENTICE continues Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm through February 12, 2012. Tickets can be purchased by calling 716.884.4400 x 304 or by visiting www.theatreofyouth.org. This production is sponsored by Independent Health and National Fuel and is recommended for ages 9 and up.

Theatre of Youth (TOY) ticket prices are $25 or $23 per person and can be purchased online at www.theatreofyouth.org or by calling TOY's box office at 884-4400 x 304. All performances take place live on the Time Warner Cable Family Stage at the historic Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY14201. Mini-season subscriptions, group rates and gift certificates are also available.

FREE Classes and Programs at the JCC - Getzville (1/15-1/20)

2012-01-11T21:13:00.002-05:00

Visit the Jewish Community Center/Getzville location between January 15-January 20th, 2012 for their grand re-opening celebration!

There are many great classes and programs going on for both adults and kids. For example, I see Bounce Houses, Face Painting, Kids Water Games, Kids Art Area, KidFit and more! You can view the complete schedule at this JCC link.

Free Family Film Series at Shea's Performing Arts Center

2012-01-11T13:19:00.003-05:00

I almost forgot about this! And this month's film looks interesting! Anyone up for a silent film from the 1920's?

Here are the details from Buffalo Place:

The Free Family Film Series at Shea’s continues on Sunday, January 15, at 2:00 p.m. (doors open at 1:00 p.m.) with a free screening of the 1926 Silent Film The Black Pirate starring Douglas Fairbanks! House Organist Bruce Woody will perform the score on the restored Wurlitzer Organ. Douglas Fairbanks Sr. stars in this exciting, action-packed swashbuckling pirate adventure as a young man seeking revenge on a band of pirates after they ransacked and destroyed his ship, killing his father. In trying to achieve his goal, he tricks the pirates into thinking he wants to join their band. Will this ruse work?

FREE tickets are available NOW at the Shea's Box Office and at Wegmans Customer Service Desks in Erie and Niagara Counties.

EXPIRED $7 for a $14 Haircut from Kids Cuts R Fun in Williamsville

2012-01-10T20:14:00.003-05:00

Ahh, this deal from Seize the Deal has brought back some memories. Kids Cuts R Fun gave my little Kate her first haircut! I have the lock of hair saved inside the sweet card they gave me when it was over.

So, this is a great deal. You can get a haircut from Kids Cuts R Fun (Williamsville location only) for just $7!

Here are the details:

Expires Apr. 10, 2012 No purchase limit. By appointment only. Not valid on Saturdays. No cash value; no cash/credit back. Not valid with any other offer. Must use entire voucher in same .

This post may contain affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

EXPIRED Martin's Fantasy Island Season Pass Holiday Sale - EXTENDED!

2012-01-10T19:59:00.003-05:00

The Martin's Fantasy Island Season Pass Holiday Sale has been extended until January 13th, 2012! We are not season pass holders but we greatly enjoyed our visit to Martin's Fantasy Island last summer!

Here is a summary of the prices here but please visit their website to see additional details as far as other benefits that will come with a season pass:

Family of 4 Season Pass:
$185 (+ $4.07 tax = $189.07)
(regular 2012 rate will be $210 + tax)

Additional Persons:
(must be purchased at the same time as Family Pass)
$46.25 ea (+ $1.02 tax = $47.27)
(regular 2012 rate will be $52.50 + tax)

Individual:
$61.65 (+ $1.37 tax = $63.02)
(regular 2012 rate will be $70 + tax)

Little Rumpkins Diaper Service

2012-01-10T10:46:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Andrea from Little Rumpkins Diaper Service for sending this information!

Most people would agree that cloth diapers are better for the enviroment as they keep close to 2 tons of waste out of our landfills, and they are better for our babies since they don't contain any harmful chemicals. What a lot of people may not know is that potty training a cloth diapered baby tends to be quicker and done successfully at a younger age than their peers who wear disposables. What comes as a surprise to many is how convenient cloth diapering is, especially when you use a diaper service.

Little Rumpkins Diaper Service makes weekly deliveries/pick-ups of cloth diapers right to your door. You simply leave your laundry bag of dirty diapers ouside your door and they are replaced with clean ones. Keep from being tied up doing extra loads of laundry each week, troubleshooting with different detergents, or battling stink issues. LRDS washes their diapers in a commercial laundry facility so you can be confident they are being cleaned by professionals that have been trained to properly care for this type of product. We also offer diaper cover rentals, have a referral program, and sell gift certificates!

Find Little Rumpkins Diaper Service on Facebook!

Tonawanda Winterfest 2012 / January 12-16

2012-01-09T20:18:00.000-05:00

Really, this "no-snow thing" is getting unbelievable! Snow or not the Tonawanda Winterfest is a fun, free event! Don't miss it!

This is a great weekend out in Tonawanda. Most likely the snowmobiles will not be operating as I read they need at least 10 inches of snow to run. But most of these events take place inside so there are plenty of fun things to do. Here are just a few of the great activities going on: (You can get the Winterfest brochure with specific details on times and places here)

Saturday, January 14th, 2012

• Figure skating show from 3 to 4 p.m., Lincoln Arena

• Outdoor family activities, noon to 4 p.m., including hayrides through Lincoln Park and, in a heated tent, Buffalo Figure Skating Club’s baked good sale/Chinese auction, the Winterfest Video Lounge and airbrushed tattoos.

• Bonfire at 6:15 p.m.; fireworks at 6:30 p.m.

• Free recreational skate from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 15th, 2012

• Outdoor family fun activities from 1 to 5 p.m., Lincoln Arena, including hayrides through Lincoln Park, Skating Club Chinese auction 1 to 3 p.m., a free family skate/carnival/music from 1 to 3, airbrushed tattoos, balloons, magic show at 2 p.m.

• Recreational skate from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

• Bonfire, fireworks and concert (featuring Sound Proof) from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

• FREE recreational swim featuring a disc jockey from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Aquatic & Fitness Center

• Model Boat demonstration noon to 4 p.m., Aquatic & Fitness Center

Monday, January 16th, 2011

• Winterfest “Police” free skate, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

• Free recreational skate, 3:45 to 5:15 p.m.

* Parent/Child Mini Golf tournament at the Paddock Golf Dome. Begins 6:30pm ($)

Events on January 12 and 13 are adult events (for the most part) which is why I have not listed them in this post.

The History Center of Niagara County- Special Event on January 16th, 2012!

2012-01-08T21:03:00.000-05:00

Another great opportunity for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 16th, 2012! Pre-registration is necessary! (This looks like it would be a fun, inexpensive way to spend a few hours!)

Children ages 7-12 are invited to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the History Center of Niagara County on Monday, January 16, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This information from The History Center of Niagara's Facebook page:

Unsung Heroes: The History of African-Americans in the United States Military will explore the lives of men and women who have served in the armed forces for over two hundred years but have not been recognized for their service. The contributions of these service people made a difference in the outcome of several wars including the Civil War and World War II. The children will learn about the Tuskegee Airmen and make a foam plane to take home. They will also find out how music was changed by a black military musician and learn about the contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers, all black units that served in the late 19th century. A snack will be provided at noon time.

The cost of the program is $10.00 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program. Please call or email the History Center at 716-434-7433 or history11@verizon.net for reservations and more information.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 10

2012-01-08T19:50:00.000-05:00

FREE Admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science

2012-01-07T21:07:00.003-05:00

Great opportunity here - save the date!

The Buffalo Museum of Science is offering FREE general admission on January 16, 2012. The museum will be open from 10am to 4pm with special activities offered from 11am to 2pm.

We haven't been to the Buffalo Museum of Science in about 4 years! Since it is a holiday from school I think we're going to load everyone up and go this year.

Is it pretty crazy over there? I'm guessing it is best to arrive as close to opening as possible? Leave a comment with your experience and advice!

Saturday Fun 1/7/2012

2012-01-06T23:59:00.001-05:00

Here's my "short list" for Saturday, January 7, 2012!

Make a Savings Shed at the Home Depot Kids Workshop from 9am-noon (FREE)

RESCHEDULED to JANUARY 21st!! (Will there be snow for this event?) Winter Trail Days Celebration at Tifft Nature Preserve from 10am-1pm (Suggested to pre-register although not required)

Winter Trails® was developed 15 years ago to promote snowshoeing and, historically, has been organized in conjunction with the American Hiking Society to get people out on snow-covered trails in the winter. Come take a mini-snowshoe hike on Tifft’s trails and experience an easy and fun winter activity! Rentals will also be available at a reduced fee for those wishing to snowshoe longer on their own. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available for purchase. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. FREE. Pre-registration highly encouraged. Please call 825-6397 to register or for more information. (FREE)

Check out what's going on at a library near you! (FREE)

Buffalo Zoo "Zooper Saturday Event" ($)

Come in out of the cold, and warm up with your favorite animal friends in the Reptile House and M&T Bank Rainforest Falls exhibit! Learn all there is to know about these exotic species from our keeper talks, feedings, enrichment activities and much more! This event is free with Zoo admission and will run from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. For more information, please call (716) 995-6133.

Michael's Make-it-Take-it Event from 1-3pm for ages 3 and up. Make a yarn backpack buddy (While supplies last) FREE

Traveling Touch Tank from the Aquarium of Niagara at Toddletown and More

2012-01-05T21:05:00.003-05:00

The traveling touch tank from the Aquarium of Niagara will once again make a stop at Toddletown and More in Depew, NY.

The program is January 13, 2012 and begins at 1pm. Admission is $8 per child and includes unlimited play and the Touch Tank. There will be a presentation at 1:00 and 1:30 so that it is not overwhelmingly crowded looking at the animials. People do not need to call ahead... just come. The Touch Tank will be in one of the classrooms so that children can easily go in and out.

Thank you Yolanda for sending me this information!

TOPS Cooking School

2012-01-05T13:02:00.000-05:00

Recently, a reader reminded me about this fun program for kids (little and big!) Since it's been awhile since I last posted about TOPS cooking schools I thought it might be good to put the information out one more time!

Keep in mind, TOPS cooking schools are only offered at the following locations:
3980 Maple Road, Amherst, NY 14226 AND 355 Orchard Park Rd. West Seneca, NY 14224

There are several class options available (pre-registration is recommended at least 5 days in advance):

1. Mini Classes for Kids is a half hour class for kids of all ages. Cost is $5. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

2. Little Chefs ages 3-6 (with a parent) is a one and one half hour class. Cost is $13. (one parent is allowed with the child at no extra cost - for additional adults a $5 fee is charged) Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

3. Junior Chefs ages 7-10 is a 2 hour class - children are encouraged to attend without a parent. Cost is $15. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

4. Aspiring Chefs ages 11 and up is a 2 hour class. Cost is $18. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

5. Cooking Classes for Home Schooled Children at the West Seneca location only. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

Wegmans offers Kids in the Kitchen which is a somewhat similar program. Visit this link for Wegmans Kids in the Kitchen information.

Have your children participated in either of these cooking schools? Leave a comment and let us know if it was a fun experience!

EXPIRED!! Two All Day Passes to Page's Paradise Island for just $10!

2012-01-05T08:55:00.003-05:00

This Page's Paradise Island deal keeps popping up but it's worth mentioning again now that winter has hit Buffalo! Also, this can be used during February winter break!

Here are the details:

This deal comes as ONE VOUCHER VALID FOR TWO ALL-DAY PASSES FOR UNLIMITED MINI GOLF, SWIMMING AND ROCK CLIMBING AT PAGE’S PARADISE ISLAND.

There are a limited quantity available so get it now if you think it's something your kids would enjoy. Expires 2/26/2012. Please read the rest of the fine print.

This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

$10 off coupon at Classic Lanes Bowling

2012-01-03T20:45:00.003-05:00

After a couple of trips to the bowling alley over Christmas break, I'm afraid we have our son hooked on bowling. (Bowling on the Wii is just not the same!)

In light of this, I was happy to find a $10 off $20 coupon to Classic Lanes Bowling which is in the Ken/Ton area.

In order to receive the coupon you must sign up for their monthly e-newsletter. After you sign up you will receive a confirmation email, click on the link in the email to confirm your address and then you will receive your coupon. (ETA: coupon comes to your email inbox not by "snail mail")

If you have bowled much at all, you know that after you pay for 1 game plus shoe rental you have spent about $5-6 per person. So for a family of 4 this coupon will make for a relatively inexpensive outing.

I should clarify...for OUR family of 5 (which includes a 5 year old and a 3 year old and 15 month old) 1 game of bowling is going to take about an hour :) An hour for this family of five is considered an "outing"!

ETA: I should add you must use this coupon within 30 days of receiving it. So, you may want to keep this in mind as an idea of something to do over Winter Break or even Spring Break!

UPDATED: Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign

2012-01-03T08:10:00.006-05:00

The following is the corrected, updated information on Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign:

Thanks to Aleica from the Easter Seals NY for sending me the correct info!

Thank you for mentioning our Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign, however the information on your page is incorrect. For the Friendly's Restaurant locations in Western New York, each restaurant guest who makes a $5 donation to Easter Seals New York will receive a coupon book redeemable for three kid’s meals or Happy Ending® Sundaes, plus a $5 off $25 purchase coupon. Cones for Kids is happening from Jan. 16 to Feb. 26.

Applebee's BookWorm Club

2012-01-02T20:17:00.000-05:00

This has probably been around for awhile but I just spotted the card for the first time at my local library last week.

Applebee's Bookworm Club:

This reading-focused reward program encourages students ages 10 or younger at school or the library to read at least 10 books that they record on their “Bookworm Club” record card.

Once a student completes all 10 books they will earn a free kid’s meal at Applebee’s (when accompanied by an adult making a purchase).

From what I can tell, you can only get the Bookworm Club record cards at your local library or at your school.

Have you seen these cards at your local library? Leave a comment and let us know!

Boulevard Buddies FREE January Meeting

2012-01-02T13:20:00.001-05:00

This is really a fun time and it is FREE! We visited a Boulevard Buddies meeting for the first time last summer and the kids had a blast!

Magical New Year! Tuesday, January 10th at 10:30am in the Food Court

Friends from Monkey See, Monkey Do Book Store will read Dora & Elmo magic-themed stories. A real magician will delight us with magic tricks and we'll make our own wizard wands!

R.S.V.P. by Fri., Jan. 6th by calling Sue at 834-5192

FREE Open Gym January 3-4, 2012

2012-01-01T21:27:00.000-05:00

I just caught this story from the Buffalo News yesterday!

Niagara Fall's Youth Bureau is offering a free open gym program at the LaSalle Facility, 9501 Colvin Blvd., to keep city youth on the move during the holidays.

A program of activities for those age 5 to 12 and 13 to 18 will be offered Jan. 3 and 4.

Visit the Buffalo News for the article here.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 9

2012-01-01T21:07:00.003-05:00

Tifft Nature Preserve January Events

2012-01-01T20:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Lauren for sending this information over to us!

Winter Trails Day Celebration* (FREE event)
Saturday, January 7 from 10AM-1PM
Ages 2 and older

Winter Trails® was developed 15 years ago to promote snowshoeing and, historically, has been organized in conjunction with the American Hiking Society to get people out on snow-covered trails in the winter. Come take a mini-snowshoe hike on Tifft’s trails and experience an easy and fun winter activity! Rentals will also be available at a reduced fee for those wishing to snowshoe longer on their own. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available for purchase. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. FREE. Pre-registration highly encouraged. Please call 825-6397 to register or for more information.

Nature Nuts: Snowshoe Strut
Wednesday, January 11 from 4-5PM
Ages 6-8

Join us after school to have fun exploring while learning about the wonders of the natural world at Tifft Nature Preserve! Since this program will be held mostly outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather. Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $4 each additional child with same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Tracks in the Snow: Animal Investigation Tour- A Friends of Tifft Event
Sunday, January 15 from 2-4PM

Join Friends of Tifft as we explore the trails during a winter investigation of animal tracks and evidence. Look for signs of active winter natives and maybe even see them up close! Snowshoe rentals will be available for an additional $2 fee paid onsite, weather permitting. $3 per person; $10 maximum per family. Free for FOT members.

Winter Whispers*
Monday, January 16 from 10:30 AM –12:00 PM
Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Winter is a time for solitude and relaxation for most, but nature always has something to say. Enjoy a morning of snowshoeing and listening to the whispers of Tifft on a winter’s day. Snowshoes will be provided. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Family Snowshoe Hike*
Saturday, January 21 from 1-2:30PM
Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Bring the family to stretch their legs and see what Tifft is like in the wintertime. We’ll end by having a warm drink in Tifft’s cabin. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Little Tykes Snowshoe Stroll
Monday, January 23 from 10-11 AM
Ages 3-5

Snowshoes aren’t just for the young at heart, so bring your little one to try out snowshoeing in our bear-claw youth snowshoes. Caregivers are welcome to give them a try too! Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $3 additional children with the same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

New Years Eve 2011 Family Friendly Events

2011-12-30T20:03:00.001-05:00

First Night Buffalo

Quick Summary: The annual holiday family tradition is celebrating its 23rd year in downtown Buffalo with activities for all ages to ring in the New Year, including rides and amusements, a storybook forest, comedy, music, magic, exotic reptiles, the grand finale balloon drop and more. Tickets are $8 and available at all area Wegmans locations. (Children 2 and under are free) Tickets are also available at the door for $10.

New Years on the Canal/Gateway Harbor

Quick Summary: Activities for the family start at 6pm with 2 alcohol free kid zones. Kid Zones are open from 6pm-9pm with $5 pre-sale "buttons" on sale now (mom and dad are free)

New Year's Eve Teen Night at Adventure Landing

Quick Summary: $10 for 3.5 hours includes 25 tokens and other activities

Middle School New Year's Party at the Amherst Museum on December 30th!

Quick Summary: Doors will open at 6:30 and the party starts at 7:00 to 10:00. There will be huge inflatable slides, obstacle courses, a photo booth, food, great prizes, thumping sound system, video, light shows and special guest DJ Tony Mamaluke from KISS 98.5! Ticket is $20

Leave a comment if you would like to see a New Year's Eve event you know about included in this post!

EXPIRED!! 4 Colden Tubing Tickets for just $30!

2011-12-30T06:21:00.006-05:00

LOVE when these tubing deals start coming around! I *hope* we see one soon from Polar Wave in Batavia!

From Get My Perks - 4 Colden Tubing Tickets for just $30!

FINE PRINT: (please note expiration and age requirements)

VALID FOR 4 COLDEN TUBING TICKETS; No cash back; No cash value; Limit one may be purchased per person; Not valid with other vouchers, specials, coupons or discounts; One voucher per visit; Redeem at Colden Tubing; All 4 Tickets must be used on the same day; Must be 7 years of age or older and a minimum of 42 inches to participate; Voucher valid Fridays 5pm-9pm, Weekends and Holidays 2 hours from time of admission; Hours: Fri 5pm-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-6pm; Hours subject to weather, call ahead for details; Expires 2/26/12

Disclosure: This post contains referral links - thank you for clicking through them.

FREE Dental Services: Give Kids a Smile Day

2011-12-28T21:53:00.004-05:00

I wanted to give you a heads up on this! You must schedule an appointment for this service.

Give Kids A Smile Day at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine – Squire Hall. This event is held Friday, February 3rd, 2012 from 8:30am-3:30pm and it is for children ages 1-18 who do not have access to dental care.

Give Kids a Smile is a ONE DAY national event where children without dental insurance are able to receive FREE dental services!

Services Offered:
Dental Exams
Cleanings
Fluoride treatment
Fillings
X-Rays (if needed)
Sealants
Extractions
Orthodontic Consultation

For more information and to schedule an appointment for your child please contact: (716) 861-3593 or (716) 829-3717

The Book Giveaway Winner is...

2011-12-28T20:26:00.002-05:00

The randomly selected winner of the Money Saving Mom's Budget by Crystal Payne is #153 (out of 164 comments!)

heather.d.....@

Heather - please check your inbox (and your spam) for further instructions. You have 48 hours to respond or else the book will go to the next person that random.org chooses!

Thank you to everyone who entered and thanks to all of you for reading and supporting my blog! Happy New Year!

EXPIRED! Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package from Kissing Bridge

2011-12-28T06:24:00.003-05:00

Here's a fun deal for you! FYI, this can be used for ages 9 and up.

Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package for just $30 at Kissing Bridge!

Get my Perks offers this $60 package for just $30! Valid for Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package ONLY (one hour group lesson, beginner lift pass and rental equipment – $60 value); No cash back; No cash value; Not valid with other offers, specials, coupons or discounts; Redeem at Kissing Bridge Central Ticket Counter; Ages 9 and up; Expires 2/26/2012

Get My Perks says they have Limited Quantity Available on this special deal!

Disclaimer: The above post contains referral links - thank you for using them.

EXPIRED! $15 for $30 to Spend at Niagara Climbing Center

2011-12-26T19:41:00.004-05:00

Another idea of something to check out over the holiday break! We've never been but I have heard several great reviews of the Niagara Climbing Center. (I've also heard it's a fun place to have a birthday party!)

Here are the details from Seize the Deal:

Purchase limit 2 per person. May purchase up to five deals as gifts. Must be 13 or older to work the ropes. No cash value; no cash/credit back. Not valid with any other offer. Must use entire voucher in same visit. Expires Mar. 23, 2012

Other information about Niagara Climbing Center:

WNY's only indoor climbing facility
Extended holiday hours: Dec. 26 - 29, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
No experience necessary! Any age can climb!
Climbing walls for all skill levels
Over 6,000 sq. ft. of climbing terrain and 40 top-rope stations
Roofs, bulges and top-outs that help to develop skills needed on real rock
Adults rates starting at just $15 for an unlimited all-day pass, lesson and harness

Fun 4 Kids over Christmas Break

2011-12-25T08:33:00.008-05:00

Here are a few, special events happening December 26-30, 2011:

*Special events at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum the 26th-30th. Open from noon-4pm - cost is $5 admission. (This will be the best $5 you spend! There are tons of things to do over at the museum. While I can't guarantee it, your kids will probably have enough to do for the entire 4 hours)

Niagara Climbing Center (great deal going on right now through Seize the Deal!)

$5 admission at the Buffalo Zoo from the 26th through the 31st!

*Magical Memories on Main Street until January 8th, 2012. Cost FREE (may be hit or miss?)

*YMCA Family Campaign: Visit this previous post for the details on a fun, free event.

*Explore and More Children's Museum offers a special week of activities dealing with rocks, fossils and weather related activities. December 26-31, 2011. Get the details at the Explore and More calendar.

Spinner's Rink the 26, 28, 30 of December from 1-4pm ($5) FREE hot dog and pop with paid admission.

*Holiday Lights at the Fairground until December 30th. Cost is $18 per car load ($6 off if you present a purchase receipt from TOPS or Wendys) Hamburg

*Fatima Shrine Festival of Lights 75 light displays until January 6, 2012. Cost is FREE. Lewiston

*Holiday Lights of the Niagara Trail, 50 displays located throughout Hyde Park until December 31st, 2011. Cost is FREE. Niagara Falls

*Niagara Falls Holiday Market, Winter Wonderland, Outdoor Ice Skating, Claus and Company Holiday Workshop ($) Details of all these events here.

*Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks (FREE-$)

*Check out the free (or cheap) events happening at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve this week! Visit their Calendar.

Rolly Pollies Special Open Play at the East Amherst and Orchard Park locations from December 26-30. Get the times and cost information here.

OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS LISTED BY DATE:

DECEMBER 27:
The Smurfs Family Film at the Eden Branch Library from 2-3:45pm

See more free events on the 27th at a library near you at this link!

North Tonawanda Public Library offers Holiday Break at the Movies at 1pm. Get the details here. (FREE)

Christmas Movie at Angola's Taste of the Midway Begins at 1pm (FREE)

DECEMBER 28
Family Snow Stomp at Tifft Nature Preserve from 3-4:30pm.
Movie Matinee at the Central Library at 1pm Cats and Dogs

See more events on the 28th at a library near you at this link!

DECEMBER 29
Beaver Meadows Insects and Spiders at the Riverside Branch. Event takes place from 1-3pm for ages 4 and up. Must register in advance! Explore the amazing world of insects and spiders.

See more events on the 29th at a library near you at this link!

North Tonawanda Public Library offers a Holiday Magic Show from 1-2pm

Michael Joseph will enchant us with his extraordinary brand of magic for this “special time of the year”. All ages are welcome to enjoy this free program. No registration necessary. All programs sponsored by the Friends of the North Tonawanda Public Library. For more information call the library, or e-mail rstutzma@nioga.org.

Brighton Place at 10:30am: Fat or Fiction

Buffalo Museum of Science will be here to present a fun and interactive presentation on foods bringing to light what we don't know about what may be in the foods we eat every day. What’s really in that snack pack? Many students do not know how their food choices impact their bodies. In this interactive outreach, students will see the vitamin differences between fresh and processed foods and compare fat contents of common snacks through a fiery approach. Great for grades 3rd-6th. There is no cost to attend this program, it is free of charge and open to the public. Call 332-4375 for more information.

DECEMBER 30:
Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens

Penn Dixie Site at 10 AM, Cross country skiing snowshoeing or nature walk. Bring
your own skis and/or snowshoes. $3/person, Penn Dixie members FREE. Pe-registration required. Please register by calling (716) 627-4560

North Tonawanda Public Library offers the Second Holiday Break at the Movies at 1pm. Get the details about the Harry Potter movie here.

Tifft Nature Preserve hosts Friday Winter Frolic from 10am-noon.

Bring your family out to Tifft and stretch your legs on a winter walk, then join us for some snow/ice art. Snowshoe rentals will be available for an additional $2 fee paid on site, weather permitting. Ages 3 and up. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338. 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14203

Multi Cultural Masks at 1pm at the East Delavan Branch Library

See more events happening on the 30th at a library near you at this link!

Need more ideas? Check the Northtowns, Southtowns and FREE tab at the top of the blog!

New Years on the Canal - Gateway Harbor

2011-12-24T14:13:00.001-05:00

This community event features a 5ft. lighted Ball Drop from high atop the building on the corner of Webster & Sweeney Streets, followed by a display of fire works at midnight, over the Gateway to the Erie Canal in celebration of the New Year.

Activities for the family start at 6pm with 2 alcohol free kid zones. Kid Zones are open from 6pm-9pm with $5 pre-sale "buttons" on sale now (mom and dad are free) Get the complete list of kids activities at the New Years on the Canal Gateway Harbor website.

First Night Buffalo

2011-12-23T21:06:00.002-05:00

This event takes place from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 31, at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.

This information from the First Night Buffalo website:

The annual holiday family tradition is celebrating its 23rd year in downtown Buffalo with activities for all ages to ring in the New Year, including rides and amusements, a storybook forest, comedy, music, magic, exotic reptiles, the grand finale balloon drop and more.

Tickets are $8 and available at all area Wegmans locations. (Children 2 and under are free) Tickets are also available at the door for $10.

Activities indlude: Storybook Land, Laser Tag, Bounce House, Giant Slide, Nickel City Reptiles and much, much more. See the complete event schedule at this link!

For more information and a schedule of events, visit the First Night Buffalo website at firstnightbuffalo.org

New Year's Eve Teen Night at Adventure Landing!

2011-12-21T20:21:00.002-05:00

Holiday Discount Days at the Buffalo Zoo - $5 Admission!

2011-12-21T11:48:00.003-05:00

Great news! The Buffalo Zoo is offering some great, low admission prices over the holiday break! Here are the details:

From December 26-31, the Buffalo Zoo will slash admission prices. All visitors, regardless of age, will pay $5 per person to get into the Zoo. (Normally, adult and child admission fees are $10.00 and $7.00 respectively. As always, Buffalo Zoo members and children under the age of two years receive free admission.)

Please take note of the REVISED Holiday hours below:

Please note that the Buffalo Zoo is open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The grounds remain open one hour after gates close.

However, there are some revisions regarding the Zoo’s holiday/winter hours:
Christmas Eve (Saturday, December 24): Admission gates close at 1:30 p.m.
Christmas Day (Sunday, December 25): CLOSED
New Year’s Eve (Saturday, December 31): Admission gates close at 2:30 p.m.
New Year’s Day (Sunday, January 1): OPEN regular schedule (10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Middle School New Year's Party at the Amherst Museum

2011-12-20T21:29:00.003-05:00

This information coming from the Amherst Museum website:

Your ticket price includes:

Your 3 hour Admission to Buffalo’s best event. (organized by Buffalo Party Rock)
Food – Taco in a Bag or slice of pizza and a soda or water.
3 hours of awesome Music w KISS 98.5 Tony Mamaluke.
Our huge Big Kahuna Slide and Obstacle Course.
A photo session in our photo booth with you or you and friends.
Great light and laser show.
A balloon drop and party poppers.

Doors will open at 6:30 and the party starts at 7:00 to 10:00. There will be huge inflatable slides, obstacle courses, a photo booth, food, great prizes, thumping sound system, video, light shows and special guest DJ Tony Mamaluke from KISS 98.5!

We encourage you to bring non-perishable food for WNY Heroes to the Amherst Museum.

Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens

2011-12-20T20:12:00.001-05:00

If you have never been to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, December 30th would be a great day to check it out!

December 30th, 2011 is Dollar Day at the Gardens! The Gardens are so beautiful this time of year with the Poinsettia Show going on until January 1, 2012. Your kids will love the Railway Exhibit which is double the size of last year's exhibit. (And includes a Thomas the Train exhibit as well)

Hours are 10am-5pm and admission is just a DOLLAR!!

Do you need some other ideas of what to do with the kids over Christmas break. Get some ideas here!

YMCA Family Campaign - FREE activities over the Christmas Break

2011-12-18T14:57:00.002-05:00

Here's a fun, FREE activity happening during Christmas break!

This from the YMCA Facebook page:

Stop by the Y during our campaign, December 26, 2011-January 31, 2012 and see all we have to offer! Each of the YMCAs six full-facility branches will even host a special family camp December 26-31 with family friendly activities for you and your family to enjoy during winter recess!

To find a location near you visit this link and then click on SCHEDULES to find the date and times of these FREE, family events.

ETA: According to the Buffalo News here are the Y Branches participating in this event:
Participating are the Southtowns Family YMCA, 1620 Southwestern Blvd., West Seneca (674-9622); Ken-Ton Family YMCA, 535 Belmont Ave., Town of Tonawanda (874-5051); Northeast Family YMCA, 4433 Main St., Snyder (839-2543); Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA, 585 William St. (845-5440); and the Delaware Family YMCA, 2564 Delaware Ave. (875-1283).

AND here is an example of the type of events going on during the YMCA Family Campaign:

Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA will be holding a FREE Family Fun Winter Carnival

On Wed 12/28 6:30-8:30PM the Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA will be holding a FREE Family Fun Winter Carnival...there will be open swim time, crafts, carnival games, snacks, a bounce house and more...This is during the YMCA Buffalo-Niagara Membership Campaign (12/26/11-1/31/12)...Please RSVP by calling 845-5440, we are located at 585 William St. Buffalo, NY.

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY

2011-12-17T11:09:00.000-05:00

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY has released the dates and location for their upcoming 4-Day Kids' Spring Sale!

DATES: Thursday, March 29 - Sunday, April 1st.
LOCATION: Premier Place on Transit Rd. in Williamsville. (The plaza with Steinmart, Chipotle, Premier Wine across the street from Walmart.)

The Spring 4-Day Sale will include the following special events:

Preview Sale Event - Thursday, March 29th from 2-8pm (Reserved for consignors & volunteers ONLY.)
50% off Sale - Sunday, April 1st, last day of sale. Many items will be 50% of the ticketed price!
Designer Mommies - A selection of gently used, designer label handbags and diaper bags for the designer diva mommies.
Bella Kids Boutique - A specialty section carrying beautifully handmade children's accessories and clothing. Many from local artisans and crafters.

CONSIGN WITH BELLA KIDS! Interested in making extra $ after the holidays? Consign with Bella Kids to earn up to 75% of the sales profits! Clear out your outgrown brand-name clothes, toys, room decor, and baby gear! No garage sales, no craigslist worries! Just register as a consignor @ www.wnybellakids.com and enter your items into their inventory system and print out the price tags. Then drop your items off before the sale and sit back and wait for a check to arrive on your profits! During the sale, you can even view your daily sales from home on your computer!

Stay updated and "LIKE" the Bella Kids FB page @ www.facebook.com/WNYBellaKids Want reminders? Join the Bella Kids Mailing List.

Have questions? Email: info@wnybellakids.com

Hanukkah Celebration at Monkey See Monkey Do (FREE)

2011-12-16T14:22:00.000-05:00

Join Monkey See Monkey Do Children's Bookstore for a Hanukkah Celebration on Tuesday, December 20 from 11 am - noon.

We will read Hanukkah stories, learn about the Jewish holiday, light a mennorah, and make applesauce to enjoy with a sampling of potato latkes. All ages welcome. This is a free event!

Please call 204-8417 to register so we may ensure enough supplies for all children.

Monkey See Monkey Do is located at 9060 Main Street in Clarence, NY.

Giveaway! Swimming Lesson Package from Michael Phelps Swim School!

2011-12-16T12:56:00.011-05:00

Thank you to Michael Phelps Swim School for offering this fantastic swimming package again!

Michael Phelps Swim School is a Learn to Swim Program for all ages & abilities. Classes are available for children as young as 6 months old. Classes this session will be held at the Casey Middle School Pool, 105 Casey Road, East Amherst 14051, on Fridays (4:00 - 8:00), Sundays (8:40 - 11:20), and Tuesdays (4:00 - 8:00). Lessons will begin the first week of January and extend to until April 3. Classes are forming now! More details are available at www.MPSSny.com. Space is limited, and spots go fast...Register online!

**If you register online prior to the conclusion of the contest (12/23/11), and then are selected as the winner of this contest, your class fee will be refunded.

THE GIVEAWAY:

Michael Phelps Swim School is giving away a free lesson package (for 1 child) of your choice. Depending on what class you decide to sign your child up for, the value of the prize could be up to $162.50. (Rates vary by day Tuesday, Friday or Sunday)

HOW TO ENTER:

Michael Phelps Swim School requests that you follow these instructions to enter this great contest!

1. "Like" their facebook page through facebook at www.facebook.com/MPSSny
and then email them at info@MPSSny.com

2. If you are already a fan of Michael Phelps Swim School, just email info@MPSSny.com.

EXTRA ENTRY: Share the Michael Phelps Fan Page (towards the bottom of the left column of the facebook page, underneath the list of "Likes", there is a "Share" option.) Clicking that option shares the page. If you share the page, then email info@MPSSny.com and let them know.

Michael Phelps Swim School will pick a winner on Friday, December 23rd, 2011. Michael Phelps Swim School will be responsible to contact the winner at that time.

Disclaimer: I have not been compensated monetarily or with material goods to post this contest.

Mom Review: Money Saving Mom's Budget

2011-12-16T10:12:00.003-05:00

I've been following the Money Saving Mom blog for about 3 years now. Money Saving Mom is not your typical coupon/deals/match-ups website. Crystal (the momma behind MSM) blogs about so much more than that which is why I love her site.

Crystal's new book, Money Saving Mom's Budget, compiles much of the experience and advice she has blogged about since the beginning of her blog. Some of the chapters in her book of note include:

25 ways to lower your grocery bill without clipping coupons

Give yourself an instant raise without increasing your take-home pay

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Couponing Techniques

Basically, Crystal takes you from the beginning. So, if you find that you are recently very interested in cutting your spending this is an easy read for you. If you've been at this slashing your spending "thing" for awhile, you can still learn something from Money Saving Mom's Budget.

Crystal knows what works because she has lived it. You will be inspired by her story of her early days of marriage to a law student. Committed to keeping out of debt they lived on very little during those early years.

Some of the money saving ideas her and her husband put into place may seem extreme to some people. But, this is the great thing about people who give out financial advice - you can take some of the advice and put it into practice in your own life and you can leave the rest behind! You've got to do whatever works for your family.

I appreciate that Money Saving Mom's Budget walks you through things like drugstore couponing, making a budget, ways to earn extra cash and other ideas for cutting your spending. It's easy to get overwhelmed when you start getting serious about spending less and saving more - Crystal advocates starting slow!

One of the great financial suggestions I have taken from the Money Saving Mom blog (which she mentions in the book as well) is the cash envelope system. I know, it's not rocket science and has been around for years! But my family has never practiced such a system until the last couple of years.

Christmas is usually the time I'm really thankful we started using cash envelopes. In previous years, December would roll around and with all the gift giving we would always have a large credit card bill in our mailbox in January! We weren't prepared for the extra spending that Christmas often brings. Now, we have a cash envelope labeled "GIFTS". This envelope gets a set amount of cash placed in it each month and when Christmas comes we're prepared! (Other cash envelopes our family uses include: car repairs, groceries, clothing and many more!)

The Money Saving Mom's Budget is scheduled to release January 10, 2012. All of the profits are going to Compassion International–an organization that helps to feed and clothe needy children around the globe.

I would love to send 1 Fun 4 Kids reader a copy of the Money Saving Mom's Budget! If you are interested in Crystal's book, please leave your email address at the end of this post in the comment section. (All emails will be deleted at the end of the giveaway) Or send your email address as a form of entry to fun4kidsinbuffalo at gmail dot com

Random.org will choose a winner on December 27, 2011 at 10pm. I will email the giveaway winner within 24 hours of random.org's decision.

WNED KID FEST Winners!

2011-12-16T09:52:00.001-05:00

Saturday Fun 12/17/2011

2011-12-15T12:26:00.000-05:00

Starbucks Cookie Party (East Amherst/N French and Transit Location) (FREE)

Forgetful the Elf will be at Scoops & More at Southgate Plaza between noon and 2:30pm.

Have some fun with FORGETFUL THE ELF, Christmas-themed magic, face painting and balloons. Maybe even some sporadic caroling! (FREE)

Spirit of Christmas at Southgate Plaza (FREE)

Santa and his Reindeer at Niagara Hobby and Craft Mart (FREE)

Carolcade in East Aurora, NY (FREE)

Santa's Vision at the Adams Mark Hotel (FREE)

Choco-Logo Confectionery Design Family Day Tour

Join us in our Factory Shop on Saturday, Dec 17 from 10am to 4pm for a special family day. Tour our working chocolate factory, sample and savor our artisan chocolate, have of hot cup of our special cocoa and shop in a fun, locally-owned place. PLUS a portion of our shop sales will be shared between Music Is Art, Food Bank of WNY, Hospice, Roswell Park Cancer Institute and HELP USA. PLUS our "famous label stores we don't have in Bflo" products will be on sale. (FREE)

Reader submitted event:

"There's a FREE breakfast with Santa @ Tops in Depew (the one across the street from McD's) all you have to do is register. It's Saturday the 17th @10am and Santa is arriving on a fire truck" Thank you, Yolanda!

Lowes Build and Grow - Build a train (FREE) Must pre-register.

SUNDAY the 18th:

FREE Family Film Series at Shea's Performing Arts Center. The Santa Clause.

Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Holiday Break Events

2011-12-14T20:14:00.000-05:00

This is on my list of things to do during the Christmas break! My kids really enjoyed our last visit to HCFM and we look forward to going later this month!

Press Release from HCFM:

For kids out of school we’ve got something special; each day features fun winter or holiday themed crafts from different decades. Make your own Victorian paper cornucopia; a “stained glass” paper ornament; or perhaps a carrousel horse card using German paper-cutting techniques. Learn more about holiday traditions by exploring hands-on objects and completing our Holiday Scavenger Hunt of the museum’s themed Christmas trees.

Mark your calendar to join us anytime Monday–Friday, December 19th–23rd and 26th–30th between 12:00pm and 4:00pm. The program is included in regular admission ($5 adults; $4 seniors; $2.50 students ages 2 – 12). The museum is closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and is closed for the season starting Saturday, December 31, 2011.

FREE: Starbucks Cookie Party

2011-12-13T20:24:00.001-05:00

If you're in the area of Transit and N French Rd in East Amherst, NY, Starbucks is hosting a FREE cookie party from noon-3pm. Your child can decorate a cookie and enjoy some FREE hot chocolate on December 17th, 2011.

Leave a comment if you know if the Starbucks near you is also hosting this event!

Kindergarten Chronicles - 8

2011-12-13T13:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to a "chronicle" of my trip through Kindergarten from a mothers perspective. This is my first time on this trip. If it's the first time for you, I hope you will join me (even if you're an old pro, please read along!) Go here if you missed Kindergarten Chronicles 1-7.

First, I apologize, Kindergarten Chronicles have been seriously neglected these past few weeks. I would love to hit the highlights quickly!

1. Now that the snow has hit, I am a little nervous about our son taking the bus to school. It was a big jump for me to allow the child to ride with a complete stranger to school each morning. Now, I am nervous about this person's winter driving skills...

2. The Christmas "festivities" have begun at our son's school. Last weekend the Kindergarten through 5th graders presented their Christmas program. It was so fun, sweet and amazing to see the child up there seeing his heart out! Mommy moment here: I was brought to tears a couple of times as I was once again brought to the realization that I have a child in school now. I have a child in school now. How in the world did this happen so fast? It seems like just yesterday we were bringing this new little baby boy home from the hospital. I remind myself to make the most of the time I have with my 2 little girls who are still at home with me. It won't be long...

3. At my son's school, there is a very special event they offer the kids the week after Thanksgiving. It is an opportunity for children to purchase new or gently used items (that are donated) as gifts for their parents, siblings, grandparents and so on. All items are priced between $2 and $5 and (in advance) the kids are sent home a budget envelope. On the envelope you (the parent) specify who your child will buy gifts for and how much they are allowed to spend. Inside the envelope you include the cash. After the items are purchased, volunteers wrap them and then send them home with the children to place under the tree.

Initially, my son was not excited about this. I think you know why. In his own words, "Mom, it's not going to be that fun. You can't buy anything for yourself!"

But I love this idea because it teaches my son to think about others. Yes, the child likes match box cars, big trucks and Wii games but his sister doesn't. This is a fun way for him to think about things his sister WILL like.

4. I am continually surprised at the importance my son places on following instructions and keeping the rules while at school. This "order" of things seems to be an important part of what kids learn in Kindergarten. You have a specific set of instructions in P.E. class for the activites, you have rules in the lunch room, class room, etc.

I guess I never thought that hard about it before. It seems obvious - we try to do this all the time at home. It is so good to teach young children there is a certain way some things must happen. This is how life works - even when you are all "grown up". Now, if we could get our son to place such a great importance on the way things are done at home that would be great :)

Kindergarten Lesson 8: Receiving gifts is nice but giving gifts is better.

Santa's Vision at the Adams Mark Hotel

2011-12-12T21:00:00.000-05:00

Santa's Vision annual "Day out with Santa" a FREE event for all children!

Saturday Dec 17, 2011 from 9am-3pm at the Adams's Mark Hotel! Free picture with Santa, Free toy for each child, Free face painting, Free Pony rides, Free bounce house, Free balloons, Costume Characters and special appearance by Billy Buffalo and Buster Bison.

This is truly a fantastic event. I have heard only great reviews from people who attend!

Carolcade in East Aurora

2011-12-12T12:17:00.000-05:00

Honestly, I love Buffalo! Can you believe all these great events happening this month?

Carolcade in East Aurora Saturday, December 17th from 7-8pm.

Annual holiday event with Caroling, Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus on Historic Main Street East Aurora. (Between Olean & Riley Streets, East Aurora 14052)

Visit their Facebook page for more information or this WGRZ article.

Free Family Film Series at Shea's Performing Arts Center

2011-12-11T20:55:00.002-05:00

Just bumping this post up to let you know it's time to get your FREE tickets to see The Santa Claus on December 18th, 2011 at Shea's!

ORIGINAL POST FROM 2009:

Check out this free family film series at Shea's! Free tickets are available approximately 10 days prior to the movie date at Wegmans Stores (Erie/Niagara counties) and Shea’s Ticket Office.

The first movie of the 2009-2010 series is Hook and it is showing this Sunday November 15th at 2pm. Pick up your tickets today and have fun!

FREE: Deck the Halls Holiday Event at the Niagara Power Project Power Vista

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

FREE admission and FREE parking! This weekend, Saturday December 10th from 10am-4pm!

Saturday Fun 12/10/2011

2011-12-07T21:03:00.000-05:00

Andersons events Includes Kids ornament making and crafts; seasonal ice cream cake samples; prize giveaways and more. Various locations (FREE)

Deck the Halls Holiday Event at the Niagara Power Project Power Vista (FREE)

Santaland at Chestnut Ridge Park (FREE)

Lowes Build and Grow Part 2 of the Lowes Build Your Own Train Must pre-register (FREE)

Santa and his live reindeer at Niagara Hobby and Craftmart (FREE)

Southgate Plaza Spirit of Christmas from 11am-1pm (FREE)

Meet Llama Llama at B is for Books (Orchard Park) between 10am and 2pm (FREE)

Glenn Colton concert at Stiglemeier park in Cheektowaga. Music by Glen Colton will take place at Stiglmeier Park from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Fireworks will be at 7:15 p.m. (FREE)

Junie B. Jones Book Club from noon-1pm at Monkey See, Monkey Do in Clarence, NY.

Children 7 and older are welcome to join us as we begin reading, Jingle Bells, Batman
Smells. We will read, listen and discuss our favorite Junie B. Jones moments and create a special Christmas ornament to take home! Registration required. (FREE)

Santa returns to the Fisher Price Store from 11am-1pm. East Aurora, NY (FREE)

Angola's Taste of the Midway Special Events: More details here.

Kids events at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens ($)

TD Rink at the Brink: FREE Skate Mondays

2011-12-07T14:18:00.000-05:00

For anyone who may be a Canadian reader or for those of you who have passports and frequently cross over to the "other side". (Personal note here - I was born in Moncton, New Brunswick!)

The TD RINK at the Brink located in Niagara Falls, CANADA is an open-air, outdoor ice skating rink located a snowball's throw from the "brink" of the Horseshoe Falls, offering breathtaking views and a magical outdoor Niagara Falls ice skating experience. Open from December 1 to February 29, 2012.

The CAA Winter Festival of Lights and TD are proud to provide TD Free Skate Days during the 2011-12 TD RINK at the Brink season. The TD Free Skate Days are as follows: December 12 & 19; January 9, 16 & 30; and February 13. TD Free Skate Days provides free admission for everyone courtesy of TD. Food or cash donations to Project SHARE, Community Cares or the Hope Center are encouraged. Bring your family, bring your friends and enjoy a free skate courtesy of TD. For directions and a printable map click here.

Check their hours of operation at the TD Rink at the Brink website

I am assuming this is only COMPLETELY free if you own your own skates. Otherwise, a $5 skate rental fee applies.

Check out a "short" list of outdoor ice skating rinks in WNY! Original post from 2009 with a few additions this year.

Disney on Ice presents Treasure Trove! January 18-22, 2012 at the First Niagara Center!

2011-12-07T13:01:00.003-05:00

Check the comment section at the bottom of this post for coupon code information.

Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove! This brand-new skating spectacular visits Buffalo from January 18, 2012 to January 22, 2012 for 8 performances at the First Niagara Center. Tickets are on sale NOW!!

Treasure Trove is an action-packed ice adventure that takes audiences on a journey through their favorite stories from Disney animated features. The audience can enter the worlds of the most memorable Disney princesses, from Rapunzel to the princess who started it all – Snow White. They’ll also join other Disney characters like Peter Pan, Simba, Nala, Alice and the Mad Hatter on their exciting adventures through Never Land, the African Pride Lands and Wonderland.

Tickets for Disney on Ice presents Treasure Trove are available online at www.tickets.com, by phone at 888-223-6000 or at the First Niagara Center box office. To learn more about Disney On Ice, go to www.disneyonice.com or visit them on Facebook and YouTube.

If you are looking for a Christmas gift idea (that is not toys), you may want to think about an "experience" gift. This year I have asked grandparents, uncles and aunts, etc. not to purchase toys but instead things such as music classes, memberships and tickets to local events for my kids. (Don't worry, there will still be a couple of toys under this families Christmas tree!)

Show times for Disney on Ice presents Treasure Trove are January 18, 19 and 20 at 7pm, January 21st at 11am, 3pm and 7pm and January 22nd at 1pm and 5pm. Ticket prices range from $13-$60.

Disclosure: Feld Entertainment (which owns Disney on Ice) is providing 4 tickets to Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo (me and my family) to thank me for providing this post about Disney on Ice: Treasure Trove.

Holiday Celebration at the Gardens - Kids Activities

2011-12-06T13:40:00.001-05:00

If you haven't had a chance to get over to the Botanical Gardens, this would be a great weekend to visit. It is so beautiful - especially this time of year!

This weekend you can join in the Gardens Holiday Celebration:

The Holiday Celebration 10am - 2pm on December 10 includes all kinds of Holiday fun. Among the Poinsettia Show and Garden Railway Exhibit, the Holiday Celebration will include hands-on kids activities and crafts from 11am-2pm ($2 per child) and photos with Santa are free if taken with your own camera but if you would like a print from Santa’s helpers, prints are $5 each.

If you would like to read more about what the Botanical Gardens offers this month visit this great story from WKBW. You can also read more about this event on the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens website.

FREE KRE-O T-shirt for Kids (Ages 6-12)

2011-12-05T20:32:00.002-05:00

ETA: 12/6/2011 - this has possibly expired?

From the KRE-ATION NATION website:

Get access to cool KRE-O content, promotions, and other great stuff! Be one of the first 5,000 kids ages 6 through 12 to sign up by March 1, 2012 and you’ll receive a FREE KRE-O T-shirt by mail! This offer is good only for a limited time.

So, I went ahead and signed my son up for this free t-shirt. Be aware after you fill out the initial information (including your email address), they will send you a confirmation email which will contain the link you need to go back and fill out the info for the t-shirt. Unfortunately, it doesn't say anywhere how many t-shirts are left or if they are already gone, etc. But when I went through the confirmation link they did ask for my son's shirt size so I'm taking that as a sign they still have some t-shirts left.

Now, let's see how long it takes to get it!

Santaland at Chestnut Ridge Park

2011-12-05T13:15:00.001-05:00

This great event is coming up December 10 and 11, 2011!

Event takes place 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (LAST HAYRIDE at 2:30 p.m.) Chestnut Ridge Park Orchard Park, New York ALL EVENTS ARE FREE!

 Visit Santa
 Kid’s Activities
 Toy Giveaways
 Refreshments
 Ride the hayride to Santa’s
Workshop & Cabin!
 Music & Singing
 Sledding & Tobogganing

Raffles and donations of cash, store gift cards or personal toiletries to benefit Domestic Violence Shelters of WNY will be accepted.

Mom Review: Jurek Trees

2011-12-04T14:28:00.005-05:00

Growing up out on the plains of Colorado we always had an artificial tree. In fact, we had the same tree for about 15 years. Poor tree, in its final years we literally had to tie a string around the center "pole" of the tree and tack it to the wall so it would stop falling over! Memories :)

My husband, on the other hand, was an East Coast boy and every year he and his family would load up the car to go cut down their own tree at a Christmas tree farm.

When we got married I was happy to make the switch from artificial to "real". Usually, we just pop over to Lowe's or Home Depot to pick up the tree. I mean, the price is right! Every year we would talk about cutting our own but "fresh cut" is usually about double the price of buying one from the hardware store.

So, this was the year we decided to pay the extra money and cut our own. We headed over to the closest place to us, Jurek Plantations, over near the intersection of Strickler and County Rd. Armed with coats, hats, gloves and full tummys (you can't take kids on a big walk and expect them to be happy if they are hungry) we unloaded at Jurek. Their tractor drawn wagon carried us (and several others) out into the field to begin our search.

Pretty stupid of us not to have worn our boots...it was wet! (I think I was more bothered by that than anyone else.) After about 25 minutes of trying to decide which was the "best" tree we located the perfect one, my husband cut it down and we dragged it back to the big barn to get bagged.

Santa visits the big barn at Jurek Trees on the weekends so we took a picture of the kids with Santa (well one kid, the other 2 were too scared).

Overall, we made a nice memory. The kids loved traipsing around in the mud looking through row after row of trees, the wagon ride and seeing Santa (and the treats in his bag!) My husband was truly enjoying the whole experience as well. (And I was happy that I remembered to bring the $5 off coupon Jurek offers on their website!)

Jurek Trees prices:

Cut-your-own: any size = $45.98 + tax

Pre-cuts available starting at $19.00 + tax

If you cut your own tree, where do you go? Leave a comment and let us know!

I was not compensated monetarily or with material goods to write this review. All opinions are my own.

Village of Depew Annual Tree Lighting

2011-12-04T14:20:00.003-05:00

This event takes place Monday, December 5th, 2011 at 6pm.

From the Village of Depew website:

Tree Lighting Ceremony will be at Fireman's Park on Monday Dec. 5, 2011 starting at 6 pm. There will be a free public skate, cookies and hot chocolate. A Fire Truck Parade will bring Santa to the event.

Saturday Fun 12/3/2011

2011-12-02T13:19:00.000-05:00

A lot of fun events happening in WNY this weekend. Most of these have already been mentioned on the blog earlier this week. Just click on the name of the event you are interested in to get the rest of the details!

Light Up the Center at Clarence Center, NY (FREE)

Graham Cracker House Construction at 2 library locations (FREE)

Downtown Christmas Lighting Ceremony (FREE)

Children's Winterfest at the Central Library (FREE)

Christmastime in the City Lockport, NY (FREE)

Santa Claus Christmas Cottage Lockport, NY (FREE)

Spirit of Christmas at Southgate Plaza (FREE)

Children's Winterfest at the Central Library Branch (FREE)

B is for Books Junie B Jones Book Club from 10:30-11:30am (FREE)

Kids Workshop at the Home Depot - Make a Snowman Napkin Holder between 9am and noon. (FREE)

Lowes Build and Grow - Part 1 of a 3 week "construction" project. Must pre-register. As of this morning, there is still space available. (FREE)

Niagara Hobby and Craftmart: Visit Santa and his Live Reindeer (FREE)

Spinners Rink event from noon-3pm: 3 BOUNCE HOUSES set up inside the rink. Lots of Kidz Bop Music along with your favorite hits. $5 admission includes skates if needed. MOM's GET IN FOR FREE!! First Sat. of EVERY MONTH!

Cheektowaga Family Fun Events (FREE-$)

Williamsville Seasons in the Village
Join us in Williamsville this Saturday, December 3rd for our annual Seasons in the Village! Come celebrate the season this weekend with horse drawn wagon rides, pictures with Santa, and much more! All day long there will be an ornament scavenger hunt running along main street, and kids can make friendship bracelets. (FREE)

4 tickets to Colden Tubing just $30!

2011-12-02T05:30:00.005-05:00

Tis' the season! Although we haven't had the white stuff on the ground at our house, there is no doubt it will be here eventually!

Today Huge Daily Deal offers 4 tickets for just $30 to Colden Tubing. Or if skiing is your thing, $30 Learn to Ski/Snowboard.

Here are the details straight from the Huge Daily Deal website:

$30 for a Learn To Ski/Snowboard package for beginners OR four (4) tickets to the newly renovated and improved Colden Tubing Company, that’s a $60 value!!

Colden Tubing Co. has upped their game with a new Magic Carpet style lift that comfortably delivers riders to the top of a 10 story, restructured slope that now has a longer run off lane and three (3) gentle lanes for children less than 7 years of age. For those looking to learn how to ski or snowboard, Kissing Bridges P.S.I.A./A.A.S.I. certified instructors are able to teach all ability levels. The Learn to Ski/Snowboard Package includes a lesson, a beginner hill lift ticket and rental.

As always please read the fine print before buying. And thank you for supporting my blog by clicking through my affiliate links.

Winter Camps 2011

2011-12-01T13:26:00.001-05:00

Just a jump start on the list for Winter/Holiday Camps for 2011. More to come as I find them!

Buffalo Zoo Winter Nature Camp Workshops for children ages 5-12 from December 26-December 30. Cost for a morning OR afternoon workshop - $30 per child (non-member) $27 per child (member) Visit the Buffalo Zoo website for details.

Buffalo Museum of Science Winter Wonderland Discovery Camp. This camp is for children ages 5-12 from December 26-30. Cost is $190 and camp days go from 9am-4:30pm. Get the details at the BMS website.

Rolly Pollies December Break Camp from December 27-30. This camp is for ages 3-9 and the theme is Pirates. Camp meets from 1-4pm each day and the cost for 1 child is $140. Get all the details at the RPWNY website.

Monkey See, Monkey Do Children's Bookstore. Camps are offered from December 27-December 30 at either morning or afternoon time slots. Visit their website for complete details and cost.

ETA: An afternoon "camp" from the Clearfield Community Center Dec. 27-30 from 1-4pm:

We will be having Open Gym for all ages from 1pm-4pm on Dec. 27-30, 2011
at Clearfield Community Center. An adult must accompany children under the
age of six. On Dec. 30th, crafts for celebrating the New Year will be available
during open gym time. Fee: $10 per family per session; pre-registration
required; visit www.amherst.ny.us keyword: brochure, registration forms on
pg. 24. Call 631.7132 for more info

Children's Winterfest at the Central Library

2011-11-30T20:30:00.003-05:00

Press release from Buffalo and Erie County Public Library:

Free Winterfest at Downtown Public Library
Indoor Festive Activities for Children 12 and Under

Families are invited to the downtown Central Library located at 1 Lafayette Square, for an afternoon of festive games, activities and indoor fun on Saturday, December 3, 2011 for the third annual Winterfest. Free and open to the public, Winterfest runs from 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m. Children twelve and under will welcome the holiday season with special stories, cookies and they will make their own Cocoa Cone craft to take home! For more information call 858-8900.

Cheektowaga Family Fun (some FREE) Holiday Events

2011-11-30T13:24:00.001-05:00

There are several fun things happening over in Cheektowaga this month. Here is a quick run down: )Find much more in-depth information in the Metro WNY article here.)

On Friday, December 2, the Old Fashioned Family Christmas from 6-8:30pm. Pre-registration is necessary.

Also on the 2nd is a public skate from 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Town Park Recreation Center ice rink. Skaters will get in free if they make a donation of a new hat, scarf or gloves to the Gift of Warmth collection.

On Saturday, December 3rd, breakfast with Santa is from 9 to 11 a.m. That same day, there will be a special skate from 8 to 9:50 p.m. at the ice rink located in Town Park and a teen skate from 10 p.m. to midnight that is either $3 admission, or free with a canned good donation.

On Sunday, December 4 children can visit Santa's Workshop. Details here. Begins at 2pm for kids ages 5-12 - fees apply.

On Saturday, December 10, FREE Glen Colton concert at Stiglmeier Park from 6-8pm. Fireworks at 7:15pm

Sunday, December 11 the town holds the Recreation Celebration with several free events throughout the day. Read about them at the Metro WNY website

Read the entire article as well as get info on their New Year's Eve events here.

FREE Friday events at Albright-Knox Art Gallery

2011-11-30T13:09:00.003-05:00

A couple of FREE events worth mentioning. These take place this Friday, December 2, 2011 at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:30pm

Please join us for the official lighting of the Albright-Knox's traditional holiday tree, complete with eighteenth-century Neapolitan crèche figurines.

Family Sculpture-making Workshop from 3:30-6:30pm

Nickel City Reptiles Presents "Animals of the World" at 6:30pm

Jeff Musial and Nickel City Reptiles & Exotics present the best in wildlife education, mixing laughter with fun facts on all of their scaly, furry, and feathered friends.

These events are all FREE. M & T First Fridays sponsor FREE admission to the gallery the first Friday of each month. (Not all events are FREE on M & T First Fridays) See a complete list of December First Friday events here.

Hertel Holiday Walk

2011-11-29T20:20:00.001-05:00

Hertel Holiday Walk on December 2, 2011 from 5pm-9pm. This event takes place at the shops on Hertel Avenue in Buffalo, NY.

Hertel Ave stores will be open and some might be serving refreshments. Santa and Mrs. Clause will also be walking down Hertel.

"Light Up the Center" at Clarence Center

2011-11-29T20:08:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Michele over at the Creative Essence Shop in Clarence Center for this information!

"-Just wanted to let you know about an upcoming event in Clarence Center, "Light up the Center" - December 3rd from 2-5pm. There are carriage rides, basket raffles, fun activities for kids as well as an organic crafting project for kids at Creative Essence. We will be felting soap - a PERFECT gift that kids and adults can make and take for $6 on December 3rd. The town lights up the Christmas lights at 5pm!"

Magic Santa - FREE personalized video from Santa

2011-11-29T11:53:00.002-05:00

I just tried this out and it is really fun and easy! I sent a Magic Santa personalized video to my husband.

It's simple - just fill in the information they need (don't worry - no personal stuff like address, phone numbers etc.) You can even say if the person you are sending it to has been naughty or nice as well as specify what kind of gift they would like for Christmas.

Try it out - the kids will love it!

FREE: Graham Cracker House Construction at your Local Library

2011-11-28T21:38:00.000-05:00

This looks like so much fun I felt it was "post-worthy"! Plus, you must register for these events and I'm guessing they will fill up quickly. These are listed according to date:

Date: 12/1/2011 at the Eden Library from 6-6:45pm as well as 7-7:45pm
Description:
Family fun with Explore & More(funded by the General Mills Foundation)
Registration begins 11/14 in person or by phone 992-4028.

Date: 12/3/2011 at the Elma Public Library from 10:30-11:30am AND 11:30-12:30
Description:
Fun for the whole family. Younger children may need help from a parent. All materials supplied. Registration is required beginning Nov. 14th. Please register in person or call 652-2719.

Date: 12/3/2011 at the Riverside Branch from 11am-noon
Description:
Join us for a fun evening of building your very own yummy graham cracker house!

Date: 12/3/2011 at the Grand Island Branch from 2-4pm
Description:
This program is for children ages 6 and older. Younger children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, or to register, visit the library or call 773-7124.

Date: 12/4/2011 at the Lancaster Library from 2-3pm
Description:
Come try your hand a building a Graham Cracker House with Explore & More! The results are always delicious. All materials are provided. Fun for ages 5 & up with parent or caregiver. Stop in or call 683-1120 to register.

Date: 12/7/2011 at the East Clinton Branch from 6-7pm
Description:
Explore and More invites you to register for this popular event, funded by the General Mills Corporation. Come and build a house that is beautiful and edible!

Date: 12/8/2011 at the Ewell Free Branch from 6:30-7:15pm
Description:
Build your own Graham Cracker House with Explore and More

Date: 12/9/2011 at the East Delavan Branch from 3-4pm
Description:
All children welcome to come join us and build their very own Graham Cracker House!
Registration Required. Please call 896-4433.

Date: 12/10/2011 at the Central Library from 11am-noon
Description:
For ages 6-12. Registration is required. Please call 858-7192. Program is funded by The General Mills Foundation. Free and open to the public.

Date: 12/10/2011 at the Clarence Public Library from 2-3pm and 3-4pm
Description:
Explore & More provides the graham crackers to build the house, the candies to decorate it, and the royal frosting to hold it all together. This program is for children ages 6 and older. Registration is limited and begins November 26.

Date: 12/11/2011 at the North Collins Branch from 1:30-2:15pm AND 2:30-3:15pm
Description:
Registration required for our annual Graham Cracker House construction with Explore & More Children's Museum. For all ages (with supervision).

Date: 12/13/2011 at the Lake Shore Branch from 6-7pm
Description:
All ages (younger children will need assistance). A fun family project with a sweet reward at the end. Make your own gingerbread houses out of graham crackers. Registration is required and begins November 15th. Please call 627-3017.

Date: 12/13/2011 at the Julia Boyer Reinstein at 6:30pm
Description:
Come join the library and create your very own graham cracker house! For ages 5-12, this is a program that will be enjoyed! Registration is required and space is limited! Stop by the library or call to register.

Date: 12/15/2011 at the Orchard Park Branch from 6:30-7:30pm AND 7:30-8:30pm
Description:
The always popular Graham Cracker House program where children create their own candy house.

Date: 12/17/2011 at the Concord Library from 10:30am-12:30pm
Description:
Come and make your very own Graham Cracker house out of graham crackers, frosting and candy! for ages 3-12. 2 sessions on at 10:30 am and the second at 11:30 am
Register in PERSON beginning Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 after 1:00 pm

Date: 12/17/2011 at the Lackawanna Public Library from 2:30-3:30pm
Description:
Explore & More Children's museum will visit the library to teach us how to make our own edible graham cracker house. Everyone is invited!

Date: 12/20/2011 at the Dudley Branch from 6-7pm AND 7-8pm
Description:
Make a holiday house out of graham crackers with Explore & More! Two sessions will be held, one at 6 pm and one at 7 pm. Each session is limited to 20 participants. Call 823-1854 to register!

2011 Downtown Christmas Lighting Ceremony

2011-11-28T20:39:00.001-05:00

Information from the Buffalo Place website:

On Saturday, December 3, 2011, First Niagara Bank will present the 2011 Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration! This annual holiday event is held at Rotary Rink at Fountain Plaza (Main at Chippewa Street) and marks the official opening of the free ice-skating season at Rotary Rink.

Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with free ice-skating. At 6:00 p.m., First Niagara Bank and Buffalo Place officials will countdown the lighting of the tree and Santa Claus will light a fireworks display over Fountain Plaza.

Distinguished guests will speak briefly and then lead a countdown to the official lighting of the Christmas Tree followed by a fireworks display over Rotary Rink.

Immediately following the Tree Lighting, the fun will continue with visits with Santa, holiday gifts, horse and wagon rides, clowns and balloon art, face painting and free ice-skating. Bring your own skates and enjoy free ice-skating. There is a $2.00 skate rental fee for children and $3.00 skate rental fee for adults. Santa and his elves will visit with children from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Christmastime in the City - FREE

2011-11-28T06:51:00.001-05:00

Wow! Free breakfast, free movie, free pizza and more!

Event takes place at various locations around the city of Lockport. Click on the above picture to read all the information!

Giveaway! WNED Kid Fest Tickets

2011-11-27T14:23:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Liz M., Julie T., and Mike B. !! Random.org chose the 3 of you as the winners of the 4 pack of tickets to the WNED Kid Fest contest! Please check your email and reply within 24 hours. Thanks to the 167 of my readers who entered!

I am so excited to announce that WNED is giving away tickets to the 2012 WNED KID FEST. They are offering 3 Family 4-packs to go to 3 Fun 4 Kids readers!

The WNED Kid Fest returns to downtown Buffalo for the sixth year on Feb. 4 and 5, 2012 with the fun-filled theme of “Pets and Animals.” This high-energy “indoor carnival” takes place on both days in the WNED Studios (140 Lower Terrace, next to the Adam’s Mark Hotel). In addition, the WNED Kid Fest Character Breakfast returns to the Pearl Street Grill (76 Pearl St., Buffalo) on Sat., Feb. 4 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Both events feature six popular PBS characters who will meet, greet and have their pictures taken with young fans: Super Why! and his co-stars Wonder Red and Woofster; The Cat in the Hat; Curious George; and Buddy (from “Dinosaur Train”).

In addition, the festival offers a host of activities to keep children engaged and excited about learning. Live performances throughout the two days will entertain with stories, songs and demonstrations. Other highlights include games, crafts, temporary tattoos of PBS characters; face painting; a PBS KIDS coloring activity; raffles; prizes; and much more.

Special advance-sale discount tickets are available Nov. 11, 2011 through Jan. 5, 2012 only at a cost of $20 for two adults and two children (age 1-12) OR $10 for one adult and one child. Additional single tickets cost $9 per adult and $5 per child age 1-12. Children under 1 are free.

The breakfast includes a full buffet meal, plus complimentary admission to the WNED Kid Fest at the nearby WNED Studios during an exclusive mid-morning timeslot. The cost is $25 per adult and $15 per child (age 1-12).

All proceeds benefit WNED-TV, ThinkBright and Well/WORLD TV, and radio stations WNED-AM 970 and Classical 94.5/WNED.

For more information and updates, or to purchase tickets for either the festival or the breakfast, visit wned.org or call 1-888-202-2859. Space is limited and these events have sold out quickly in the past, so tickets may not be available at the door.

HOW TO ENTER:

It's simple to enter - just contact me through this link with the words WNED in the message box and you will be automatically entered to win one of three family 4-packs.

Contest ends December 15, 2011 at 10pm. Winner will be chosen using random.org and announced on December 16, 2011.

I have not been compensated monetarily or with material goods to host this contest on my website. I am so excited to offer this opportunity to my wonderful Fun 4 Kids readers!

Members Only Holiday Party at the Buffalo Zoo

2011-11-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

If you're already a member of the Zoo, I'm sure you read about this in the ZOOLOG magazine.

All members are invited to enjoy a visit with Santa and light refreshments, holiday tattoos and animal visits on Saturday, December 3.

This members only program will run from 9am-11am and will be held in our Children's Resource Center. Please enter at the Parkside Entrance and, as always, you must present your membership card, along with a second form of identification for admission. Reservations by phone are required. Please call 716-837-3900, ext 117 on or before November 25.

On a side note, this weather we've been having is amazing for the month of November! In the 6 years we've been in Buffalo, I don't think we've ever been able to go to the Zoo in November!

Santa Claus Christmas Cottage - FREE

2011-11-26T20:15:00.000-05:00

This place looks cute! We have never been and only just recently read about it. Admission is FREE to the Christmas Cottage but they do appreciate donations.

Here's just a bit of information about the Santa Claus Christmas Cottage:

Get more details at the Santa Claus Christmas Cottage website.

If you have visited the Christmas Cottage, leave a comment and let us know if your children enjoyed it!

Breakfast with Santa at the Buffalo Zoo

2011-11-25T20:36:00.003-05:00

December 10, 11, 17 & 18 Breakfast with Santa and the Animals

From the Buffalo Zoo website:

Celebrate the holiday spirit at Breakfast With Santa, sponsored by New York Life! There will be two seatings each day at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Santa's elves will be hard at work treating everyone to a breakfast buffet provided by CJ's Catering, activities for the children, admission to the Zoo and, of course, a chance to visit with Santa himself! Pre-paid, nonrefundable tickets are required due to limited seating. Ticket prices for non-members are $15 for adults and $12 for children. Members will receive a $3 discount. Children under the age of 24 months will be admitted for free. (High chairs are not available.) For more information, please call (716) 995-6133 or CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.

Thanksgiving Weekend Activities, Nov. 25-27, 2011

2011-11-23T08:31:00.003-05:00

FRIDAY the 25th:

Junie B. Jones at Monkey See, Monkey Do from 3:30-4:30pm (FREE)

Poinsettia Show and Garden Railway Exhibit at the Botanical Gardens ($) Interested in a Botanical Gardens Membership? Get a great deal here!

FREE movie at the Paddock Golf Dome around 8:30pm (FREE)

Black Friday Camps ($$)

Make Your Own Puzzles and Games at Explore and More Children's Museum ($)

Old Fashioned Christmas at Southgate Plaza from 6-9pm. (FREE)

Turkey Stroll at Reinstein Woods at 10:30 AM

The day after Thanksgiving is a great time for a walk in the woods. Join us on a guided nature walk as we look for wild turkeys and the clues they leave behind. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up. (FREE)

Antlers and Hooves and Tails at Tifft Nature Preserve

Join us for a program about one of the favorite animals at Tifft, the white-tailed deer. We will explore the preserve for signs and sights of the many deer that call Tifft home, as well as examine some biofacts, including antlers and fur. ($)

Train Day at the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society (Adults FREE with a paid child admission)

Niagara Holiday Market Opens (FREE) continues on Saturday

Fairgrounds Festival of Lights begins! Get your $9 ticket (for a carload) here. continues on Saturday

SATURDAY the 26th:

Hamburgh Holidays - many FREE events going on in Hamburg NY

Hawk Creek presents Tiny Talons at Brighton Place Library at 10:30am

Hawk Creek presents their program Tiny Talons for children in grades Pre-K through 2nd grade. This is a great interactive event for children who like to see live animals in person and learn about their natural habitats. There is no cost to attend this program, it is free or charge and open to the public. Call 332-4375 for more information. (FREE)

Something BIG is coming to the Buffalo Museum of Science. Be one of our first guests to see the unveiling of a huge addition to the museum’s collections in Hamlin Hall. The first 200 children under 12 through the door will get a special commemorative prize! ($$)

Roller Skating Party at Rainbow Rink in North Tonawanda (FREE)

Leaf Hunt at Reinstein Woods at 10:00 AM

Explore the forest as you search for leaves from different trees. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up. (FREE)

Santa and his Reindeer arrive at Niagara Hobby and Craft Mart (FREE)

Christmas at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum ($)

Santa Saturdays at the Elmwood Village

Lancaster Fire Truck Parade (FREE)

SUNDAY the 27th:

Polar Express showing at the Hamburg Palace (FREE)

Holiday Tree Lighting at Clarence Town Park from 4-6pm. (FREE)

$9 admission to the Fairgrounds Festival of Lights!

2011-11-22T06:23:00.004-05:00

I guess this is the day for some deals! Although, I don't think this one is as great of a deal as the Botanical Gardens membership I posted about earlier today.

For just $9 your carload can get into the Fairgrounds Festival of Lights! (Normally, the carload price is $18)

The "problem" with this deal is it is only valid on certain dates. Purchase limit 1 per person. Valid Nov. 25 - 27 or Dec. 2 - 4 only. Not valid for 15-passenger van, bus or limo.

But if those dates work for you and your carload - enjoy

Thank you for supporting my blog by clicking through my affiliate links.

Botanical Gardens Membership Deal!

2011-11-22T05:49:00.003-05:00

This is a nice deal and with winter approaching the Botanical Gardens is a great place to visit with the kids! (It's fun to visit anytime of year!)

Living Social offers a $30 family membership to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. It includes: two adults, all dependent children, and four guest passes (a $60 value).

Grandparents can also entertain their family members with a grandparents' membership, good for two adults, four children, and four guest passes.

Please read the fine print regarding the special shows and events at the Gardens.

Read more about why the Gardens are fun 4 kids here and here.

Thank you for supporting my blog by clicking through my affiliate links.

Light Up Lancaster (Fire Truck Parade, Santa and more!)

2011-11-21T20:08:00.001-05:00

Main Event on Central Avenue on November 26th, 2011

6:00 pm - Fire Truck Parade - Begins at Lancaster High School and proceeds down Central Ave, ending at Broadway. Immediately following the parade, Santa will ''Light up Lancaster".

7:00 - 9:00 pm - Visit with Santa, feed his reindeer, wagon rides and free refreshments
7:15pm - Performance by Barb Denny's
8:00pm - Performance by the Lancaster High School Show Choir

Visit with Santa at Bloomsbury Lane Toy Shoppe & get a free picture!! Get all the details (including dates) at the Lancaster Village Special Events Page