What’s Up? Helena

Helena is kicking 2022 off with a bang...

AND LOTS OF FAMILY ACTIVITIES TO GET YOU OUT OF THE HOUSE AND ENJOYING WINTER IN MONTANA.

WRITTEN BY BLAIR FJESETH

Lewis & Clark Library

See what's happening at Lewis & Clark Library. I recently learned that our local library opened 21 years before statehood and was the first library in Montana. In addition to its book collection and public access computers, the library offers a variety of activities. "Launchpads,” which are now available for check-out, are tablets that are locked and loaded with educational apps and games for younger children. The library also has weekly toddler and baby book hours. On January 13, the library is hosting a Teen's Crafternoon where your teen will spend time building a Zen Garden. This seems like a great way to make friends, meet new people and make a fun take-home craft. If you have any Harry Potter heads in your family, the library features a monthly Harry Potter virtual book club on January 18, and on January 24 they are hosting Teen Bingo. For more event details or activities, visit lclibrary.org.

ExplorationWorks

Run, don't walk to ExplorationWorks for the new giant Lite Brite exhibit, which is fun for all ages. Kids can play with an entire wall dedicated to making unique Lite Brite creations, while parents can reminisce on days gone by with their own artistic designs. ExplorationWorks is also still featuring the 35 Million Miles to Mars exhibit, which is all about robots, satellites, space travel and more. Stop in at the carousel next door for an ice cream cone and carousel ride on one of their unique Montana animals.

Broadwater Hot Springs

On Tuesday, January 4, the Broadwater Hot Springs will be hosting husband and wife duo Blake & Kaci, who write and perform original music, as well as their favorite country, folk and rock songs. The Broadwater is an excellent outdoor spot for the entire family. Visit broadwatermt.com for more details.

HELENA CIVIC CENTER 40TH ANNUAL Cabin Fever Antique and Vintage Market

On Saturday, January 8, the 40th annual Cabin Fever Antique and Vintage Market will be held at the Helena Civic Center. This is a fun event to walk around, grab lunch or coffee and see all the crafts fellow Montanans are creating. While this is a family-friendly event, younger kids might have difficulty not touching everything in sight.

GRANDSTREET THEATRE A Real Boy

Grandstreet Theatre is opening A Real Boy on January 28. If you loved the Disney classic Pinocchio as a child, this is the perfect reinvention for you. Take your kids down to Grandstreet to watch what happens in this family-friendly adventure with sophisticated undertones. This fresh adaptation explores the joys and trials of parenthood and the importance of being true to yourself. From one adventure to another, Pinocchio approaches his life with a courageous spirit and innocent optimism, while Geppetto realizes that fatherhood is more than he ever imagined it to be.

Montana Wild

If you haven't taken a trip to Montana Wild lately, now is the time to go. The center has added new features in the last few months and has increased its educational take-home materials library. Montana Wild is an excellent resource for families to learn about nature, wildlife and Montana History. Learn more at fwp.mt.gov/education/montana-wild.

MEMORIAL PARK Warming House and Ice Rink

The Memorial Park Warming House and Ice Rink is the perfect place to spend a winter afternoon. Kids can learn to skate in an open-air rink, play on the playground adjacent or have snacks in the warming house. The ice rink hours are always weather dependent, so call the ice-line 406-443-8774 or check Facebook for current conditions. There will be no capacity limit this winter, and no waitlist, so everyone who wishes to skate can.