30+ Things to Do With Kids This Week Around Philly: February 17--23

30+ Things to Do With Kids This Week Around Philly: February 17–23

Need plans? We've got something great, every day!

February 15, 2020

Need plans? We’ve got something great, every day.

Go straight to: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday WEEKEND

All Week

‘XOXO: An Exhibit About Love & Forgiveness’ (plus, Family Yoga!)

February 8–May 10

Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic

This new exhibit at Please Touch Museum will give visitors the opportunity to think about and explore feelings through a variety of activities designed to help them understand, appreciate, and express their emotions. Come Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week for Family Yoga at 2:15 pm.

Survival of the Slowest

Through September 20

Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Learn how the slowest animals have adapted and survived, and meet some live animals including a baby sloth!

My General Tubman

Through March 1

Arden Theatre, 40 N. Second Street

A world premiere by acclaimed Philadelphia author Lorene Cary, My General Tubman is a beautiful and exciting new play about the complex journey of Harriet Tubman and the impact she continues to have today.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

Through March 8

101 S. Columbus Blvd.

Come to skate, come to party in the cabins, come for the fun and food. This rink is a Philadelphia favorite for a reason!

Final Week of Winter in Dilworth Park: Rothman Rink and Wintergarden

Through February 23

Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15^th St.

Skate outside City Hall, warm up with food and drink in the Cabin, and run through the beautifully manicured Wintergarden Maze.

‘The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Experience’

Through April 19

Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St.

Based on the internationally best-selling survival handbook, that was created in Philadelphia, “The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Experience” makes its world premiere at the Franklin Institute, bringing hands-on, immersive challenges that show visitors how to survive unexpected but possible “worst-case scenarios” in fun and thought-provoking ways. See our preview here!

Candytopia

Open through March 15

Ninth and Market streets

Candytopia brings its wildly popular experiential installation art to Philly. Favorites—like the marshmallow pit filled with over 250,000 foam marshmallows, and the rainbow-filled room with flying unicorn pigs and confetti explosions—are joined by Philly-specific elements. It’s Instagram heaven, and you even get to eat candy throughout the experience! Tickets are available online, where you can reserve your timeslot. Kids age 3 and under get in free! Read our review and tips here.

Shen Yun

February 12–March 1

Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.

Featuring classical Chinese dance, patented scenographical eﬀects, and original orchestral works, this production is colorful, dramatic, and spectacular.

Hello, Dolly!

February 19–March 1

Academy Of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

One of Broadway’s most celebrated musicals, this spectacular show follows the strongminded Dolly Levi’s adventures in matchmaking and love. With classics like “Before the Parade Passes By” and of course the titular show-stopping number, this musical is a must-see. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Monday

Day-Off Camps

If your kids have off for Presidents Day but you don’t, never fear– we have a lineup of options for you!

Final Day: Philadelphia Auto Show

February 17, 9 am—5 pm

Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St.

The Philadelphia Auto Show is back at the Pennsylvania Convention Center with dazzling cars, from exotic to classic and everything in between. And since kids 6 and under get in free, it’s all the more reason to bring them along and make some memories. No matter what your age, there’s so much to see, with 750,000 square feet of hundreds of cars from dozens of automotive manufacturers, including pre-production models and even Hollywood-inspired cars.

Free Admission: Presidents Day at National Constitution Center

February 17, 9:30 am—5 pm

525 Arch St.

The Constitution Center will offer free admission and host a variety of educational programs for the whole family, including presidential trivia where visitors can test their knowledge of America’s 45 presidents, craft stations, story corners, and more. Children ages 12 and under are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite U.S. president or first lady to enter the center’s presidential costume contest, which will be judged by a panel of presidential re-enactors! Kids can also meet (and take pictures with) those presidents at a Town Hall, where they can ask questions of presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.

The Royal Mix: ‘Kindness Up, Bullying Down’

February 17, 9:30 am

Urban Youth Racing School, 1080 N. Delaware Ave.

Come for a panel, workshop, and screening of The Royal Mix’s award-winning short film #ROYALGEEK. To RSVP, email theroyalmix3@gmail.com as slots are limited.

Presidents Day at the National Museum of American Jewish History

February 17, 10 am — 5 pm

101 South Independence Mall East

Explore an original letter written by George Washington to the Jewish community promising religious freedom, and write your own letter to the president at the Freedom Family Presidential Corner. You can even meet George Washington himself! There will also be a family play zone with storytimes and crafts for kids, teens, and adults of all abilities. Admission is free all month!

Music Monkey Jungle at Liberty Place

February 17, 10:30–11 am
The Shops at Liberty Place, 1625 Chestnut St.

Come sing, dance, laugh and play with Music Monkey Jungle in this free concert!

Rhythm Babies

February 17, noon—1 pm
Beehive at Bok, Suite B03, 1901 S. Ninth Street

Music appreciation begins early with Rhythm Babies! Weekly classes aimed at ages 4 months and up incorporate singing, rhythm, storytelling, and creative movement activities.

Afternoon Yoga with Miss Kate

February 17, 4:30 pm

Beehive at Bok, Suite B03, 1901 S. Ninth Street

A fun 30-minute yoga session for kids ages 2-4.

Tuesday

Sand Mandala at Please Touch Museum

February 18, 9 am—4:30 pm

4231 Avenue of the Republic

As part of the XOXO exhibit, learn about mindfulness and meet renowned Tibetan-American scholar and Sand Mandala Master Losang Samten. See him at work creating a Mandala of Compassion. Say hello, learn about the art-form, and get hands-on!

Music Exploration with Mr. Ryan

February 18, 9—9:45 am

Beehive at Bok, Suite B03, 1901 S. Ninth Street

Sing, move and meaningfully connect with your child during this music class designed to foster positive aural experiences for the whole family! Young musicians and their caregivers will participate in a variety of musical activities to promote vocal exploration, steady beat, gross motor movement, and positive social interactions.

Music Monkey Jungle Free Session at Reading Terminal Market

February 18, 10 — 10:30 am

51 N. 12th St.

Sing, dance, move, and have a rockin’ good time with Music Monkey Jungle. Admission is free and open to the public.

Toddler Time at American Swedish Historical Museum

February 18, 10:30—11 am

1900 Pattison Avenue

Come for a specially designed program for children ages 18 months to 4 years old, with interactive stories, engaging hands-on activities, and social interaction. This month: Animals of Sweden!

Minecraft Day

February 18, 3-5:30 pm
Kensington Library, 104 W. Dauphin St.

The library hosts a Minecraft session in the computer lab, complete with their own Minecraft Realm, a persistent server that allows the group to play in the same world and saves their progress each session. Kids can work alone or with up to eight other participants. Appropriate for ages 8 and up.

Kids Can Cook

February 18, 4 pm

Queen Memorial Library, 1201 S. 23rd St.

Healthy Cooking class for school-aged kids and teens, taught by serv-safe certified cooking instructor Keisha Prosser. Learn about food safety, prepare a full meal, and then help eat what you’ve created.

French Storytime

February 18, 4 pm
Walnut Street West, 201 S. 40th St.

All storybooks are read in French by local parents and volunteers.

Teen Book Discussion: ‘If I Ever Get Out of Here’

February 18, 6 pm

Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library, 125 S. 52nd St.

Readers ages 10-14 are invited to join this free discussion of the 2020 One Book, One Philadelphia companion selection, If I Ever Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth. Limited copies of the novel will be available on-site for participants to take home.

Sensory Storytime

February 18, 6 pm

Thomas F. Donatucci, Sr. Library, 1935 Shunk St.

Sensory Storytime is designed for children ages 10 and under who are on the autism spectrum. Read stories, sing songs, and do other interactive exercises to promote engagement and learning. Space is limited to 10 children, so call ahead to reserve your spot.

Family Zumba at DiSilvestro

February 18, 6:30 pm

1701 S. 15th Street

Join a free family Zumba class (donations accepted) every Tuesday night. This program is open to all ages and individuals.

Dinner and a Movie: ‘Grease’

February 18, 8 pm

The Lounge at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut Street

Have dinner while a classic movie musical plays! Restaurant and bar open at 5 pm, and the movie starts at 8 pm. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. WCL recommends making reservations in advance to secure a table.

Wednesday

Book Nook Storytime at Reading Terminal Market

February 19, 10 am
51 N. 12th St.

This program, in partnership with The Free Library of Philadelphia, is geared towards children ages 3 to 5.

Rhythm Babies at Splash Lab Arts

February 19, 10 am

3510 Scotts Lane

The popular music readiness class for babies and toddlers (ages 6 months to 3 years) comes to East Falls! Stay afterward for open play during Splash & Play hours until 2 pm.

Music Club for Children

February 19, 4 pm

Walnut Street West, 201 S. 40th St.

Whether your kid plays an instrument, wants to learn more about music, or wants to put on a musical of their own, they can join for instruction and discussion.

Black History Month Scavenger Hunt

February 19, 4 pm

Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library, 125 S. 52nd St.

Explore the library and learn about well-known Black authors and illustrators during this children’s activity.

African American Poets Series for Children

February 19, 5 pm

Logan Library, 1333 Wagner Ave.

Children will explore poetry by Langston Hughes, Eloise Greenfield, and Maya Angelou, and respond by writing their own poetry. This program is especially for children in grades 2-6.

Kid Craft Night at KCFC

February 19, 6–8 pm

Kensington Community Food Co-op, 2670 Coral St.

Bring your kids out for a collage craft project run by Lauren Simoncini, and some pizza, too!

Thursday

Barnes Toddler Time

February 20, 10 – 10:45am and 11 – 11:45am

Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Every third Thursday of the month, the Barnes presents a combination of storytime and art/movement activities just for kids up to age 5 and their parents and caregivers. Bring your curious and imaginative toddlers to the museum to delve into art-related stories, art making, and movement activities, and to get an introduction to magical works in the Barnes collection.

Art Explorers

February 20, 10:30 am

Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.

Join Ms. Kate for sensory arts and crafts for children 5 and under. Sculpt, paint, splatter, spray, squish, and mold! This program is intended to help children explore a variety of media and color.

Drop-in Play and Storytime at Philly Art Center

February 20, 10:30—11:45 am

2333 Fairmount Avenue and 514 Bainbridge Street

For babies ages 0-2. Walkers enjoy sensory stations, while floor-bound babies enjoy age-appropriate play. Storytime is at 11 am. No need to sign up, just drop-in for $5 at the door.

‘Parker Looks Up’ Storytime and Activity

February 20, 11 am

Lillian Marrero Library, 601 W. Lehigh Ave

After reading Parker Looks Up, explore the importance of representation and the art of the Michelle and Barack Obama portraits. Then, kids will make their own inspirational portraits.

‘Parker Looks Up’ Storytime and Activity

February 20, 3:30 pm

Falls of Schuylkill Library, 3501 Midvale Ave.

After reading Parker Looks Up, explore the importance of representation and the art of the Michelle and Barack Obama portraits. Then, kids will make their own inspirational portraits.

‘Mae Among the Stars’: Mae Jemison in Outer Space

February 20, 4 pm

Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library, 125 S. 52nd St.

Learn about Mae Jemison’s space trip, and make outer space slime for a hands-on lesson about stars and planets!

Eyewitness Nature with Bartram’s Garden

February 20, 4:30 pm

Queen Memorial Library, 1201 S. 23rd St.

Bartram’s Garden staff will offer a free nature program at the library for children ages 8-13.

Yoga and Mindfulness for Kids

February 20, 4:45 pm
Andorra Library, 705 East Cathedral Road

Kids in grades K-12 can come every week for a free yoga and mindfulness session at Andorra Library. Plan to wear comfortable, flexible clothing and bring a yoga mat if you have one. Kids only!

African American Artists Series for Children

February 20, 5 pm

Logan Library, 1333 Wagner Avenue

Each week will explore the works of a different African-American artist, and then kids can and create artworks of our own inspired by them. Artists to be discussed are Horace Pippin, Clementine Hunter, and Faith Ringgold.

Friday

Rhythm Babies

February 21, 10 am

Beehive at Bok, Suite B03, 1901 S. Ninth Street

Music appreciation begins early with Rhythm Babies! Weekly classes aimed at ages 4 months and up incorporate singing, rhythm, storytelling, and creative movement activities.

Baby Bird Playdate at Philadelphia Museum of Art

February 21, 10:15 am
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Play at the museum with your little ones and enjoy circle time, art making, and gallery walks. For toddlers and their grownups.

Black History Month Storytime

February 21, 11 am

Queen Memorial Library, 1201 S. 23rd St.

Preschool-aged kids will read, sing, dance, and learn about history and diversity. A playtime will follow storytime.

Friday Fun Day Open Play (Grades 3-12)

February 21, 3-5:30 pm

Phield House, 814 Spring Garden

A great opportunity for students in Grades 3-12 to come to Phield House to participate in pick-up games and activities on the turf or court! Sign up online.

Hands On at Charles Santore Library

February 21, 3:30 pm

932 S. Seventh St.

Learn how to do some old school crafts such as finger knitting, potholder making, and origami. This program is intended for young school-aged children. Parents and siblings are welcome.

Rescheduled: Cupid’s Arrow Archery

February 21, 4—6 pm

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, 8601 Lindbergh Blvd.

Families are welcome (with kids ages 8 and up) to stop by the free pop-up archery range to learn how to shoot—no experience, equipment, or registration required.

Lilypad Family Happy Hour Playgroup

February 21, 4:30—6 pm

1234 S. Broad St.

Hang out with other parents and let the kids play—this playgroup is BYOB!

Sonic Skate Party

February 21, 5–9 pm
Rolling Thunder Skating, 7017 Roosevelt Blvd.

Go skating with Sonic the Hedgehog!

Jojo Siwa Tribute Dance Party at The Pop Shop

February 21, 6 pm

729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ

Enjoy dinner and join a JoJo Siwa impersonator as she dances, plays games, and sings along with everyone. Each child will receive a bow. Optional mini-makeovers are available too! Tickets available online.

‘Shark In The Dark’ Overnight Program

February 21, 6 pm—February 22, 9 am

Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ

Experience the Aquarium’s amazing shark collection, as well as sea turtles, stingrays, and a multitude of different fish on a special behind-the-scenes tour. After your adventure, you’ll spend the night sleeping up close with one of these amazing aquatic animals. The next morning, you’ll get a chance to visit with African penguins and hippos and have more aquarium fun! For ages 6-12 with an adult chaperone. Pre-register online.

Camp-In at the Franklin Institute

February 21, 6:15 pm—February 22, noon

222 N. 20th St.

Kids ages 6-13 (and chaperones) will have a unique sleepover experience in the museum, plus access to the “Worst-Case Scenario” special exhibit! Campers must clear out by 9:30 am on Saturday, but can stay and explore the museum until noon! Pre-register online.

Old Pine Community Center Mardi Gras Party

February 21, 6:30–10 pm

401 Lombard St.

Enjoy live music, silent auction, New Orleans inspired cuisine, and a supervised kids’ space! Tickets available online or at the door. Benefits Old Pine Community Center.