By Heather Chapman
It’s February and I know you’re all stir-crazy and sick of the cold. But the name of the game this month is to hang in there and keep the wee bairns entertained until it gets warm enough to let them run around outside. These great activities are sure to help:
Celebration of the Chinese New Year
Head down to the Singletary Center for the Arts for this family-friendly showcase of traditional Chinese culture. There will be dancing by the Mu Dan Hong Dance Troupe, music, acrobatics, and a presentation of costumes from different Chinese dynasties (pro-tip: don’t tell the boys it’s a fashion show). Best of all, it’s free. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7. Singletary Center Recital Hall, 405 E. Rose St. (859) 257-4929. www.finearts.uky.edu/singletary-center.
Peter and the Starcatcher
Based on the novel by humor writer Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, this prequel to Peter Pan is a swashbuckling adventure sure to keep the kiddos riveted. Feb. 6-8, Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. $37.15-$107.15. (859) 233-3535. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com.
Chuggington Live
Chuggington Live: The Great Rescue Adventure. Oh, but we’re not done with the Opera House. Got a Thomas the Tank Engine fan? They’ll love this. ‘Nuff said. 2 and 5 p.m. Feb. 22, Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. $20-$49. The $49 tix are VIP and include a goody bag of Chuggington merch. (859) 233-3535. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com.
Kodo
Look, you’ve probably never heard of these guys before, but trust me: they’re amazing. Kodo is a Japanese drumming ensemble that brings some serious energy and rhythm to the stage–think Stomp. Their shows are appropriate for all ages; come early for preshow activities. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28, EKU Center for the Arts, Richmond. $38-$55. www.ekucenter.com.
Birdhouse Workshop
Bring a small trinket—a button, a bit of fabric, a sticker; whatever tickles your fancy—to this free workshop and use it to decorate a birdhouse that will become part of a city-wide public artwork. All other materials provided. Taught by Kurt Gohde and Kremena Todorova (they of the Lexington Tattoo Project). Appropriate for ages 5 and up, but children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 10 a.m.-noon. Feb. 28. Living Arts and Science Center, 362 N. Martin Luther King Blvd. (859) 252-5222.
Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat
Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat. Everyone needs a little absurdity in their lives, yes? So check out the whimsical new production at the Lexington Children’s Theatre (418 W. Short Street). $10-$18. Varying times on Feb. 22, Feb. 28, and March 1. (859) 254-4546. www.lctonstage.org.
Lego & Books: Goodnight,
Goodnight Construction Site
Bring the kids downtown for an evening of hands-on fun learning about STEM skills with Legos. Just try not to step on one. For kids ages 3-13. Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning, 251 W. Second St. 10 a.m.-noon, Feb. 7. $10. (859) 254-4175. www.carnegiecenterlex.org.
Rainbow Magic Fairy Valentine Party
Dress up in your little one in her glittery best for a magical Valentine’s Day celebration with treats, gifts and goodies. Reservations required, so sign up soon. 2-2:45 p.m. Feb. 12. Eagle Creek Branch of the Lexington Public Library, 101 N. Eagle Creek Dr. (859) 231-5500.
One last activity I recommend: plant some seeds.
February is the perfect time to start your tomatoes and whatnot indoors. Plus, the best way to get kids excited about eating fresh, healthy food is to involve them in growing it. So grab a few seed packets and go to town!
