It’s nice to know what Chicago area events would appeal to different age youngsters. So here are four family events to put on the calendar.
Penguins and Fall Fests
Lincoln Park Zoo members get a peek of the new Penguin Cove the mornings of Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. The penguins are cute to watch but there will also be expert chats and children’s crafts. Hours are Friday 9 to 11 a.m. and Saturday 8 to 10 a.m. Penguin Cove opens to the public beginning daily on Oct. 6. For other information visit Penguins.
Every weekend from Sept. 30 through Oct. 30 is Fall Fest at the zoo. Think corn maze, crafts, games, pumpkin carving and music. Pumpkins can be bought from the Pumpkin Patch near the Wild things Gift Shop. The fest is free but some attractions require tickets. Zoo hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo is at 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614. For other information visit fall fest.
Above and Beyond
Explore aerospace from early space travel to what’s happening now and have fun with virtual simulations at the Museum of Science and Industry. Above and Beyond opens at MSI Oct. 4, 2016. This exciting exhibit has a simulated elevator to the edge of space and a way to create and race supersonic fighter-jets. Admission is part of the MSI entry fee of $18 for adults, $11 children 3-11. Chicago residents’ tickets are discounted. The exhibit goes through Jan. 8, 2017. The Museum of Science and Industry is at 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. For other information call (773) 684-1414 and visit MSI
Juicebox
Kid-friendly music and performances for the “stroller-set” are back at the Cultural Center and the Garfield Park Conservatory this fall starting with Sones de Mexico on Oct. 7 downtown Chicago and Oct. 8 in Garfield Park. Shows at both places are 11 a.m. The Cultural Center is at 78 E. Washington St. and the Conservatory is at 300 N. Central Park Ave. For more information visit Department of Cultural Affairs
The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival
Highwood, a tiny city surrounded by north suburban Highland Park, is trying again to beat the Guinness World Record for most carved pumpkins at its Pumpkin Festival, Oct. 7-9, 2016. But this year proceeds from the $3 admission and all food, drinks and rides will go to Make-A-Wish Illinois. Bring a pumpkin to carve or carve one there. Watch a professional pumpkin carver to get ideas but also check out the pony rides and petting zoo. Costumes are encouraged. For other information visit Highwood Pumpkins.
