Last month we started something new, and we hope you found it helpful! Family Friendly Cincinnati is known for our weekend round-up posts where we share all kinds of family fun going on around town on the weekends. We decided to change things up a little bit and now we are writing MONTHLY posts instead! This way we can include family fun that happens during the week, because there’s so many great things going on in our community, and not just on the weekends. Check out this full list, add some events to your calendars, and keep checking back because we will update it throughout the month! Also, if we have missed an event there’s a link at the bottom of this post to submit events. Have a fun month of April! We hope we can lend a hand in planning good old fashioned family fun for you.
**Please note, for the April edition we have added in the last few days of March as well, so you don’t miss any fun at all in the coming days!
Family Friendly Things to Do in Cincinnati & NKY {April 2015}
March 29 ~ April 4 ::
Easter Party Sunday, March 29 at 1:30 Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger www.kentonlibrary.org Erlanger Branch Library – 401 Kenton Lands, Erlanger free Visit with the Easter Bunny from 1:30 to 2:30. Don’t forget your camera! Magic show from 3-4. Face painting and crafts too.
For the Teens: Animanga Club at the Covington Public Libary ~ Grades: 6 – 12 Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm Fan faves and Crunchyroll rotation, Japanese crafts, manga art and snacks.
Easter Puppet Show April 1, 10 & 11 a.m. Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger www.kentonlibrary.org Erlanger Branch Library – 401 Kenton Lands, Erlanger Free Enjoy the antics of the puppets as they celebrate spring and prepare for Easter. Snack provided. Ages 2-8 and a caregiver
Good Friday ~ April 3rd is the last Friday in Lent. Looking for Lent-friendly dinner ideas? Visit our Fish Fry Listings Post or our Great Lenten Dining Post.
Wump Mucket Puppets April 4, 2015 2-3 pm Public Library of Cincinnati – Clifton Branch www.WumpMucketPuppets.com 351 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton FREE Wump Mucket Puppets celebrate Spring with silliness and songs at The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Clifton Branch Library. Featured in the puppet show will be a new tune sung by Coleman the Sasquatch, as well as the skit “The Legend of the Loveland Frog Prince”.
Sensory Open Play Saturday, April 4, 10am-noon Kenton County Public Library – Durr www.kentonlibrary.org Durr Library- 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd., Independence FREE Expand the mind, gross and fine motor skills and engage the senses in this learn through play program geared for young learners and those with autism or other sensory challenges.
For a complete rundown of Easter Events on both sides of the river check out our Easter Egg Hunts, Bunny Sightings & Events post.
April 5 ~ April 11 ::
ArtsWave Hosts CincySings at Music Hall: Back for a second year, the region-wide choral competition CincySings, hosted by Drew Lachey, comes to Music Hall Wednesday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. The competition will feature teams of choirs made up of employees from top regional companies, facing off in an evening of music and fun. Get the Scoop
Opening Day Celebration at Washington Park: Join us for a free fun-filled Opening Day Celebration in Washington Park! Festivities begin Monday, April 6 at 11:00am with beverage sales, fun games and live music. The Findlay Market Opening Day Parade kicks off at noon and will pass by Washington Park on Elm Street—directly in front of Music Hall—as it makes its way through the city. For more information about the Opening Day Parade, CLICK HERE. Be sure to stick around after the procession for even more music, family-friendly activities, cold beverages and delicious food. Additionally, Washington Park’s concession stand will be selling beer, wine, mixed drinks, soft drinks and water. See more at the Washington Park Website
National Public Health Week Celebration at Fountain Square: Saturday, April 11th from 1-4pm. This is a free event to celebrate local public health efforts in recognition of National Public Health Week, a national health observance. It includes live dance performances, free health screenings, door prizes, local health organizations, free snacks courtesy of Happy Belly on Vine, and more! Celebrate #NPHW and join the national conversation with @CinciHealthDept.
Local Music Collection Saturday, April 11, noon-4pm Kenton County Public Library – Covington www.kentonlibrary.org/events Covington Library – 502 Scott Blvd Free Enjoy live music as we celebrate our new local music collection.
Creative Corner April 11, 1 pm Kenton County Public Library – Durr www.kentonlibrary.org Durr Library- 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd., Independence Free Creative Corner is an art based program designed to help kids express their creativity while learning the fundamentals of drawing, painting and other art mediums. All materials provided.
Looking for some bargains? Two NKY Schools are hosting sales this weekend:
Prince of Peace Flea Market Saturday, April 11th from 7am – 1pm. 625 Pike Street, Covington. Stop by and explore. You never know what treasures you’ll find!
St . Augustine Covington YARD SALE!!!! Saturday, April 11th 8 AM until 2PM 184O Jefferson Avenue, Covington in the school parking lot and Gym. Toys, Clothes, books and much more.
April 12 ~ April 18 ::
Sensory Sunday April 12, 2015 | 2PM Shalom Family www.myshalomfamily.org Gymboree In Mason Free with advance RSVP These private interactive play groups take place on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, featuring the popular Miss Shana, who keeps babies and their parents engaged and entertained with her unique brand of fun. Play dates are open to families in the Jewish community with children two years and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish. The programs are free and always include a snack. Plus, two families will each win a $50 Target Gift Card at every event. Dates and times are subject to change, please check myshalomfamily.org for updates and to RSVP. Sensory Sunday is a program of Shalom Family, an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation.
National Library Week April 12-18 Kenton County Public Library www.kentonlibrary.org/events All locations Free Celebrate National Library Week, April 12-18. In addition to all the fun programs, check out all the selfie stations around the Library. Snap and share your photo using #kentonlibrary and upload to the Library’s Facebook page. Patrons who check out items will receive a KCPL tote bag while supplies last (one per order/per family).
B Visible Thursday, April 16 & 30 Kenton County Public Library – Covington www.kentonlibrary.org Covington Library – 502 Scott Blvd Free Teens learn to sew on sewing machines, create your own wearable technology that lights up to keep you visible on the streets.
Harbinger April 17, 2015 : 7 pm – 10 pm Neusole Glassworks and Marta Hewett Gallery http://neusoleglassworks.com Neusole Glassworks FREE Marta Hewitt and Neusole Glassworks are excited to welcome two dynamic contemporary artists, Shane Fero and Kevin Veara. “Harbinger” masterfully pairs the hot-work sculptures by the renowned glass artist, Shane Fero with the intriguing environmental paintings of Kevin Veara. It will begin with a live demonstration at 7 pm. A gallery reception will follow afterward.
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arth Day Celebration ~ April 18, 2015 from 12-5pm, Rain or Shine at Sawyer Point
Asian Culture Fest ~ Saturday, April 18th at the Cincinnati Museum Center
Early Childhood Literacy Fair Saturday, April 18, 10:30 am-1:30 pm Kenton County Public Library – Covington www.kentonlibrary.org/events Covington Library – 502 Scott Blvd Free Join us for the annual Early Childhood Literacy Fair featuring a performance by Zak Morgan, balloon animals, a strolling magician, activities from the Contemporary Art Center and the Cincinnati Museum Center, and free developmental screening from First Steps for children 0-36 months. There will be plenty of prizes for children and the first 400 children will receive a free book. The fair is funded by the Kenton County Community Early Childhood Council which receives money from KidsNow! and the Governors Office of Early Childhood.
Family Class: Natural Egg Dying April 18, 2015 | 10:30 am – Noon Civic Garden Center http://www.civicgardencenter.org/classes-events/classes/ 2715 Reading Road Cincinnati, OH 45219 $5 Welcome the spring season with a fun twist on dying eggs! We will use natural materials to make earthy hues on eggs and design a little nest to carry them home.
Hot Wheels Racing Day April 18, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Kenton County Public Library – Durr www.kentonlibrary.org Durr Library- 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd., Independence Free Bring your fastest, craziest looking Hot Wheels/Matchbox cars and make them speed, soar and crash on our customized tracks! Ages 1-12 and a caregiver. Register by calling 962-4032.
Music Making with Madcap: The Story of the Ugly Duckling April 18, 2015 (10am & 11:30am & 1pm*) Linton Music’s Peanut Butter & Jam Sessions www.lintonmusic.org Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 7701 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236 $5 for an individual ticket or $15 for a book of 4 tickets; Children under 2 are free! ADDITIONAL SHOW TIME ADDED!! The clarinet, cello, piano and Madcap Puppets tell the story of The Ugly Duckling through the music of Beethoven! Don’t miss the music, storytelling, and warm and fuzzy fun! During PB&J performances, children are invited to sit on the floor, close to the performers, allowing them to be “part of the action.” An educational coordinator hosts each 40-minute concert, leading dances, beat patterns, songs, and question & answer sessions to guide and enhance the experience for children and their families. At the end of the concert, we invite you to meet the performers and get an up-close introduction to their instruments.
April 19 ~ April 25 ::
Third Sunday Fundays Third Sunday of the Month Sunday, April 19th. Taft Museum of Art http://www.taftmuseum.org/ 316 Pike Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 Free Bring the whole family to the Taft Museum of Art on select third Sundays to explore, create, and play. Activities are free and ongoing, so drop in when you have time and stay as long as you like. Monthly Theme: http://www.taftmuseum.org/?page_id=200 FREE. No reservations taken. Information: (513) 684-4515.
Stephen Knight, illusionist Friday, April 24, 2015 | 7pm-8pm Fairfield Community Arts Center http://www.fairfield-city.org/events/details.cfm?id=39583 Fairfield Community Arts Center, 411 Wessel Dr., Fairfield, OH 45014 $5-$7 Prepare to Be Amazed! The theatre grows dark… the music swells… the curtain rises and the audience begins a journey into a magical world of mystery and illusion. Their guide for the evening is illusionist Stephen Knight – the very embodiment of high-energy magical entertainment. More than a performer of tricks, Stephen engages his audience by using illusion, comedy, drama, music and special effects to create a unique theatrical experience. Part of the EnterAct Family Series. All ages.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park’s “Bird Brain” Saturday, April 25th ~ The Fort Wright Civic Club, Inc. is proud to be hosting a performance by Off the Hill Productions at 2:00 and Story time prior at 1:00 hosted by Kenton County Public Library . Mayor Hatter is a guest reader. Bake sale with our area girl scout troops and much more. This event is open to our community. $1 for children $2 for Adults. More details visit us atwww.fortwrightcivicclub.co
Music Making with Madcap: The Story of the Ugly Duckling April 25, 2015 (10am & 11:30am) Linton Music’s Peanut Butter & Jam Sessions www.lintonmusic.org Heritage Presbyterian Church in Mason 6546 S. Mason-Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040 $5 for an individual ticket or $15 for a book of 4 tickets; Children under 2 are free! The clarinet, cello, piano and Madcap Puppets tell the story of The Ugly Duckling through the music of Beethoven! Don’t miss the music, storytelling, and warm and fuzzy fun! During PB&J performances, children are invited to sit on the floor, close to the performers, allowing them to be “part of the action.” An educational coordinator hosts each 40-minute concert, leading dances, beat patterns, songs, and question & answer sessions to guide and enhance the experience for children and their families. At the end of the concert, we invite you to meet the performers and get an up-close introduction to their instruments.
Family Festival: Glow Party April 25, 2015 1:00-4:00 pm Contemporary Arts Center http://contemporaryartscenter.org/calendar/2015/04/25/family-festival-glow-party 44 East Sixth Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 Free with Admission or Membership Let’s light up the UnMuseum with some extra bright artwork inspired by the artist Albano Afonso. We’ll make glow forts and design giant webs of light using recycled materials. Kids can create an LED paper lantern to take home, build shiny glow sculptures and experiment with shadow play and reflection. Don’t miss out on this luminous experience!
The Magic of Jason the Great Saturday, April 25, 11 am Kenton County Public Library – Durr www.kentonlibrary.org/events Durr Library- 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd., Independence FREE Prepare to be amazed with the energetic and comical magic of Jason the Great. Fun for the whole family!
El Dia Fiesta April 25, 2015 | 1-4pm Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County http://cinlib.org/1IsTkSE North Central Branch Library, 11109 Hamilton Ave. Free Celebrate El Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros (Children’s Day/Book Day) 1–4 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at the North Central Branch Library. The free event includes a musical performance by Yurtfolk, storytime in multiple languages, free books for kids (while supplies last), games and crafts. Co- hosted by the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Kenton County Public Library and Lane Public Library. For more information, call 513-369-6900.
2015 Cynthiana Home & Garden Show April 25 & 26, 2015 Burley Coop Marketing Center US 27 South Cynthiana, KY 41031 2015 Cynthiana Home & Garden Show over 60 booths to shop and get ideas. Make sure to come hungry and visit the food court. Admission is non perishable food item per person that is donated to the food pantry. Doors open 9am Saturday April 25, 2015 and 12:30pm Sunday April 26, 2015. 859-234-1035 ext 303
April 26 ~ The end of April ::
Sensory Sunday April 26, 2015 | 2PM Shalom Family www.myshalomfamily.org Gymboree In Mason Free with advance RSVP These private interactive play groups take place on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, featuring the popular Miss Shana, who keeps babies and their parents engaged and entertained with her unique brand of fun. Play dates are open to families in the Jewish community with children two years and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish. The programs are free and always include a snack. Plus, two families will each win a $50 Target Gift Card at every event. Dates and times are subject to change, please check myshalomfamily.org for updates and to RSVP. Sensory Sunday is a program of Shalom Family, an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation.
B Visible Thursday, April 16 & 30 Kenton County Public Library – Covington www.kentonlibrary.org Covington Library – 502 Scott Blvd Free Teens learn to sew on sewing machines, create your own wearable technology that lights up to keep you visible on the streets.
Ongoing Events in April ::
‘Random Acts of Poetry’ contest for teens April 1 – April 30 The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County http://teenspace.cincinnatilibrary.org/programs/teenpoetrycontest All 41 Library locations Free “It’s time for the annual Teen Poetry Contest known as “Random Acts of Poetry.” The Library encourages teens in grades 7 through 12 to participate in the contest by writing an original poem and submitting it online or at their nearest Library branch during April. Entry forms and contest details are available at all Library locations.
Booker Buddy Bash – Erlanger April 6-12 Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger www.kentonlibrary.org Erlanger Branch Library – 401 Kenton Lands, Erlanger FREE Calling all Booker Buddy Club Members. You will receive a special surprise in the mail very soon. Bring that to the Erlanger Branch April 6-11 to enter Booker’s Dog House and get a prize. Surprise visits from Booker himself all week long! See website or stop by the branch to register children ages 2-12 for the club.
Booker Buddy Bash April 12-19 Kenton County Public Library – Covington www.kentonlibrary.org Covington Library – 502 Scott Blvd FREE Calling all Booker Buddy Club Members. You will receive a special surprise in the mail very soon. Bring that to the Covington Library April 12-19 to enter Booker’s Dog House and get a prize. Surprise visits from Booker himself all week long! See website or stop by the branch to register children ages 2-12 for the club.
Booker Buddy Bash – Durr April 19-26 Kenton County Public Library – Durr www.kentonlibrary.org Durr Library- 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd., Independence Free Calling all Booker Buddy Club Members. You will receive a special surprise in the mail very soon. Bring that to the Covington Library April 19-26 to enter Booker’s Dog House and get a prize. Surprise visits from Booker himself all week long! See website or stop by the branch to register children ages 2-12 for the club.
The Cincinnati Reds are returning to town in April, and kicking off the season with the Findlay Market Parade on April 6th. Once the season starts you can watch their games for FREE on the big screens at Fountain Square! Visit the Fountain Square website for more details!
Tunes & Blooms ~ Each Thursday in April the Cincinnati Zoo offers FREE concerts featuring awesome local bands. Pack a picnic, listen to some tunes, view the gorgeous blooms and say hello to the animals! Visit the Cincinnati Zoo website for all the details.
Where the Wild Things Play: Sundays, April 12 – May 17 at Washington Park Kids and adults alike will love the stories and songs, art activities and creative movement, “Where the Wild Things Play” at Washington Park. Take a LOOK at some of the fun we had last spring. – See more at the Washington Park Website.
EcoSculpt returns this spring to Washington Park! Produced by 3CDC, EcoSculpt is a three-week installation (April 3-22) comprised of original sculptures made of recycled and/or recyclable materials at the Park in celebration of Earth Day. Artists have a chance to design and display large-scale, eco-friendly sculptures at Washington Park AND win cash prizes. Visit the Washington Park Website for more details.
Farmer’s Markets: With the warmer weather it’s the perfect time to visit a local Farmer’s Market! We have a HUGE list of local Farmer’s Markets you can check out: Farmer’s Markets in Cincinnati & NKY ~ cook fresh, cook local!
