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Calendar
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates of events can change so be sure to call ahead. Due to COVID, venues have different rules. Please check ahead. To have your events listed free in our next calendar, fill out our calendar form at newmexico-kids.com, or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is April 13 for listings in May/June. Calendar listings are not guaranteed because of space limitations. All phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
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March
Arts & Crafts
5, 12, 19, 26, Family Art Workshops,
1-2:30pm. All ages can enjoy family art projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grownup friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 2437255, cabq.gov.
Classes & Workshops
6, 13, 20, 27, Meditation for Kids, 1011:30am. In this lighthearted and fun class, children will build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to help increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-13, masks required. Free, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.
Cultural Centers & Museums
2, Free First Wednesday, ABQ Muse-
um, 9am-5pm. General admission is free on the first Wed of the month. Timed ticketing applies. Free, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, storytime and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 224-8323, explora.us. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has links with information like reopenings for museums, historic sites and other institutions that have resources, activities and exhibits online. The “Visit Virtually” section includes links to NM museums, cultural centers and libraries, newmexicoculture.org.
Dance
5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, Cultural
Dance Program, noon, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and dance. These dances connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW. 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.
Exhibits
1-31, “Dogs, A Science Tail,” 9am-5pm, Wed-Mon. Discover life from a dog’s point of view in this exhibit, a richly interactive 9,000 sq. ft exhibit for humans with “Tail as Old as Time,” “Dogs and Humans, Together Forever,” “The Incredible Dog,” and “Caring for Dogs.” Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org.
1-31, “To The Moon: Snoopy Soars
with NASA,” 9am-5pm. This exhibit examines the history of NASA’s Apollo 10 and the Peanuts characters’ role in that flight. Included with admission, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.
2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30, Sculp-
ture Garden Tours, 11am-noon. Take a stroll through the museum’s outdoor sculpture gardens, led by a knowledgeable docent. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 7646515, cabq.gov. 19, National Quilting Day, 10am-2pm. The Heritage Farm quilting group will feature antique and modern styles and engage with visitors about their artwork. Included with admission, High Desert Rose Garden Atrium, ABQ Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 848-7180, cabq.gov.
Fairs & Festivals
3-5, Spiders’ Market, 9am-5pm. The gallery show’s theme is “Our Turquoise Trail;” clothing, jewelry, tools and prints on display and for sale feature a shade of turquoise. Free, ABQ Garden Center, 10120 Lomas NE, 859-0680, lasaranas.org.
4-6, The 33rd Annual National Fiery
Foods & Barbecue Show, 4-8pm, Fri; 11am-7pm, Sat; 10am-6pm, Sun. Sample everything from blazing BBQ to mild and savory marinades & rubs and sweet heat desserts. Enjoy the fun energy, talking with exhibitors, and hobnobbing with fellow chile heads. $15.50/$5 ages 1118/free ages 10 and under, Sandia Resort & Casino, 30 Rainbow NE, 796-7500, fieryfoodsshow.com. 13, Community Purim Fest, 10am-2pm. Megillah reading, mask and grogger making, bone marrow drive, hamantaschen, study session and games. Congregation Albert, 3800 Louisiana NE, 883-1818, abqjew.com.
18-20, Treasures of the Earth Gem,
Mineral, Jewelry Expo, 10am-6pm, Fri & Sat; 10am-5pm, Sun. Fifty dealers, mineral specimens, rough, slabs jewelry, fossils and petrified good. Door prizes, raffle, silent auctions, displays. $5/$2/free, 2324 Alvarado NE, 850-7524, agmc.info.
25, NM Renaissance Celtic Festival
Kids Education Day, 10am-5pm. Kids get a chance to meet and greet the artists, craft building, history, family. $10 parents, Wildlife Nature Park & Zoo, 87 N Frontage, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org.
25-27, NM Renaissance Celtic Festi-
val, 10am-6pm, Sat; 10am-5pm, Sun. All day shows, music, dances, games competition; $30 adults, Wildlife Nature Park & Zoo, 87 N Frontage, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org.
Just for Teens
5, Teen Volunteer Orientation, 13pm. Teens ages 14+ can volunteer at the Zoo, Aquarium, Botanic Garden or Tingley Beach and learn about the natural environment and spend time making a difference. Free, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden and Aquarium Education Bldg, 2601 Central NW, 848,7172, cabq.gov. 8, Teen Chill Zone, 3:30-4:30pm. Try a craft or activity, masks required; ages 1319. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org. 15, Anime Club, 3:30-4:30pm. New shows and topics every month plus themed food and activities; ages 13-19, masks required. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 8915013, riorancholibraries.org. 19, Steampunk Crafts, 2-4pm. Make a plague doctor mask for cosplay. All materials provided, registration required; ages 13+. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org. 26, NM Trivia, 2-3:30pm. Show off your knowledge of the Land of Enchantment, play alone or in a team up to five people. Prizes, registration required, ages 16+. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 587-8321, abqlibrary.com.
Animal Humane NM Junior Volun-
teer Counselors. Junior counselors are needed for the 2022 Summer Camp Sessions. Registration will open mid-March for ages 15-18. See website for details, animalhumanenm.org/eventsahnm/camp-humane. Teen Artists. Teens & Tweens ages 9-17 can have art featured in the Teen Room white board for two weeks. Sign up at Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.
Library Events
Area Libraries offer activities including Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Storytimes, Crafts, Movies and Knitting Clubs.
Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com. 9, Catch the Wind, 3:30-4:30pm. Children will build wind catchers and describe the effects different wind speeds have on their creations, registration is required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. 9, Feel the Breeze, 10:30-11:30am. Preschoolers will explore air in its most tangible form: wind, by feeling it, making it and seeing its effects on other objects. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org. 12, Pi-Day Eve, 3:30-5pm. Celebrate the circle and numbers on for Pi Day with number games, try out hula hoops and help make a number chain out of the digits of pi; all ages. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.
21 & 22, Code Your Escape: A Coding
Escape Room, 4:30-5:30pm & 2:303:30pm, Mon; 12:30-1:30pm & 2:30-3:30pm, Tue. Follow “Break the Code” clues and be exposed to different forms of code, each will open a lock, break all codes to Breakout of the room; ages 10-18. Registration required, limited to 8 per session. Free, Cherry Hills Library, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. 31, Gravity Tumblers, 3-4:30pm. Learn about the interaction between gravity, friction and inertia while making quirky examples of nonlinear motion to take home. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 256-2065, abqlibrary.org.
Music
9, The Concordia Choir, 7pm. This choir has been seen on public television and heard in Carnegie Hall and Kennedy Center. $5 students/$20 adults, Central United Methodist Church, 201 University NE, TheConcordiaChoir.org.
School Break Camps
17, Spring Parent Teacher Confer-
ence Camp, 7:30am-5:30pm, camp is 8:30am-3:30pm with free before an after care. Grades K-2 join for “Fairytale Engineering,” use engineering skills to design a new escape method for Rapunzel, test which of the Three Little Pigs’ houses could withstand a hurricane. Grades 3-6 join for “Let’s Fly!” Campers will earn about projectile motion, aerodynamics and gravity, see website for all details. $70 per session/$65 members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.
17-18, 21-25, Learners Spring Chess
Camps, 8:30am-noon, 1-4:30pm & 8:30am-4:pm. Camps are mornings, afternoons or full days. Play chess, attend lessons, work on workbooks, earn points toward chess pieces and treats; also am and pm recesses. $50/$30/25% off members/$5 off early bird before March 15, Learners Chess Academy, 532 Adams NE, learnerschess.org/chesscamps.
17-18, 21-25, Explora School’s Out
Camps, 9am-noon or 1-4pm. These multi-age collaborative half-day camps are broken up into Pre K and K-5th with topics like “Lost in Space,” “Water and the Arts” and “Engineering Roadways.” See website for details. $50/$45 members, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 2248323, explora.us.
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar
18, Spring Parent Teacher Confer-
ence Camp, 7:30am-5:30pm, camp is 8:30am-3:30pm with free before and after care. Grades K-2 join for “Spy School,” learn how to create and crack codes, examine fingerprints and make invisible ink. Grades 3-6 join for “Crime Scene Science.” Campers will dust for fingerprints, solve “who done it” in this exploration of the forensic sciences, see website for all details. $70 per session/$65 members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org. 21-22, Spring Wildlife Safari, 8:15am4pm. Go on a safari and learn about wildlife. Zoo camps include up-close encounters with education animal ambassadors, zookeeper chats and guided tours; grades 2-3 & 4-6. $50 daily/$45 daily members, ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th SW, 848-7180, cabq.gov.
21-25, Spring Break STEM Camp, JCC
ABQ, 9am-4pm. Children 5-7 can participate in age-appropriate STEM-related activities. Ages 8-12 work with “Introduction to Rocketry.” Camp will include Basketball Skills and structured and unstructured playtime. After care available from 8-9am and 4-5pm. $350/$325 members, JCC of Greater ABQ, 5520 Wyoming NE, 418-4455, jccabq.org.
21-25, YMCACNM Spring Break Camp.
Grades K-5 bring lunch, morning and afternoon snacks. Kids can make friends, have fun, get active and discover what they can achieve. Call for details, YMCA of Central NM, 4901 Indian School, NE, 595-1515, ext 3106, ymcacnm.org. 23, Spring Water Journey, 8:15am4pm. Explore and learn about sharks, jellies, river otters, fish and sea turtles. Grades 2-3 & 4-6. $50 daily/$45 daily members, ABQ BioPark Aquarium, 2601 Central NW, 848-7180, cabq.gov.
23, Weekday Explorer Camp:
Spring, 9am-noon. Hiking and outdoor exploration. Hands-on science, literacy and art activities. Children should attend prepared to explore outdoors. $30, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, play.cabq.gov. 24, Spring Green Connection, 8am4pm. Uncover the world of plants from tiny seeds to towering trees. Visit animals at the Heritage Farm and learn about the importance of bugs in the BUGarium. Grades 2-4 & 4-6, $50 daily/$45 daily members, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov. 24-26, Code Club, 1-4pm. Learn the skills to make video games, websites and computer programs. Discover, invent and learn while gaining useful technology skills. Register for all three days or drop in for one (space permitting). Ages 8-18, registration required, limited to 8. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta NW, 8775170, abqlibrary.org.
25, Spring Outdoor Adventure,
8:15am-4pm. Take a trek through the bosque to experience nature in the heart of the city. Gather clues and play nature games. Grades 2-3 & 4-6, $50/$45 members, ABQ BioPark Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley SW, cabq.gov.
Science & Nature
5, Bee Friendly, 11am-12:30pm. For those considering home hive beekeeping, learn the basics of selecting a hive, how to obtain bees and essential tools before making the commitment; registration required. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org.
5, Saturday Explorer Camp: Where
Does Water Go? 9am-noon. Ages 6-10 enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration, hands-on science, literacy and art activities. Children should attend prepared to explore the outdoors. $10, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 7684950, play.cabq.gov.
12, Bee Friendly: Native Bees - Sus-
tainability through Habitat, 11am12:30pm. Learn simple ways to attract bees into your yard by providing healthy foraging plants and best native habitat practices; registration required. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. 12, Family Nature Club Hike, 10amnoon. Join an educator on a familyfriendly hike through the bosque and down to the river. Hands-on learning, natural history fun facts, storytelling and seek out wildlife. See website for what to bring; registration required. Free, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4955, play.cabq.gov.
19, Pollinators: What are they?
Why should we care? 10:30am-noon, Learn about butterflies, bees and other hard-working pollinators that provide us with one of every three bites we eat. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org.
19, Saturday Explorer Camp: Local
Life Cycles, 9am-noon. Ages 6-10 can hike, explore outdoors, enjoy hands-on science, literacy and art activities. Children should arrive prepared to explore outdoors. $10, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, play.cabq.gov.
25-27, Backyard Garden Train Show,
9am-5pm. Join enthusiasts from the NM Garden Railroaders Club who will be demonstrating how to bring backyard gardens to life with motion and sound through the use of miniature, G-scale trains and unique, complementary landscape. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark Ceremonial Garden, 2601 Central NW, 848-7112, cabq.gov.
26, Early Childhood Family Class:
Local Life Cycles, 10am. Discovery Day Program for ages 3-5 and grownups. Have fun making discoveries about the natural world with hands-on science, story time and an art project. Leave with a packet of ideas and activities to continue discovering at home. $5, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 7684950, play.cabq.gov. 26, Garden Expo, 9am-noon. Visit with gardening and water experts, see website for info and vendors; all ages. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.
State Parks Free Entrance Days:
schedules and details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parksstate.htm.
Stage
3-6, Cirque du Soleil, 7:30pm, Fri & Sat; 3:30pm, Sat, 1 & 6pm, Sun. A highenergy and high-acrobatic production. $44+, Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho, 8913826, rioranchoeventscenter.com.
10, “Disney Princess” The Concert,
7:30pm. A quartet of Broadway, Disney Channel and animated film icons celebrate all the songs, animations and stories. This features Broadway performers appearing as themselves, costumed Disney characters do not appear at this event. $25-$69 plus ticket fee, Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell NE, 277-3824, popejoypresents.com.
16, B - The Underwater Bubble
Show, 7pm. This show is a modern fairy tale with one major twist: each classic tale represents a journey of a kid who grows up and learns something. Lasers, low ground smoke and flying foam simulate waves and create a show for kids and adults. $17 & $25 kids/$28 & $38 adults, Kiva Auditorium, 401 2nd NW, 2320-9868, ampconcerts.org.
Storytelling
31, March Winds Blow at Lomas
Tramway Library, 10:30-11:15am. Storyteller Dianne Rossbach will tell true and fanciful tales about what happens when March winds begin to blow in this participatory storytime filled with natural history facts, songs, poems and stories. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.
Especially for Parents
4, Kids’ Night Out, 6-10pm. Parents can have a night out while their kids enjoy recreation, games, dinner, a dance party and movies; grades K-8. $10, Paradise Hills Community Center, 5901 Paradise, bernco.gov.
6 & 12, Self Defense Classes for
Moms, 9-11am & 3-5pm Sat; 2-4pm, Sun. Moms learn how to keep themselves and their children safe in a threatening situation. $10, YHWH Health & Fitness, 2829 San Mateo NE, eventbrite.com.
16, Healing Hearts Event & Silent
Auction, 11am. The largest annual fundraiser for Children’s Grief Center. Check website for info, 323-0478, childrensgrief.org.
18, Explora Adult Night: “Reel to
Reel,” 6-9pm. This adult-only evening features activities including performances, lectures, installations and experiments, 18+. Free members, $10, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.
Also of Interest
artisan, food and drink vendors come together for a fundraiser to benefit Goodness Cakes ABQ, a local non-profit whose mission it is to get birthday and graduation cakes to at-risk and homeless kids in ABQ. Live music, all ages. Free, Salt Yard East, 6001 Osuna NE, visitalbuquerque.org. 19, Recyclothes, 10am-3pm. This is a clothing drive that directly benefits students who go without basic necessities. Students are in need of clothes, shoes, undergarments and coats so they can focus on learning. Bring gently used clothing for K-12 students. Free, Hinkle Family Fun Center, 12931 Indian School NE, 768-8167, milaromero@cabq.gov. New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market. The Children’s Hour provides weekly educational and entertaining public radio programing and podcasts for listeners of all ages, created by and for kids and families, ChildrensHour.org, 89.9 fm KUNM.
April
Arts & Crafts
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 , Family Art Work-
shops, 1-2:30pm. All ages can enjoy family art projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grown-up friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 9, 16, 23, 30, Origami Class, 2-4pm. Ages 7+ (adults and children) learn to fold a new project each week, limited to 12 students, sign up at the branch or by phone. Free, Rudolfo Anaya Library, 7704 2nd NW, 897-8823, abqlibrary.org.
12, Paper Beaded Jewelry for
Tweens and Teens, 6;30-7:30pm. Create paper beads out of old book pages and comic strips to make a one-of-a-kind necklace or bracelet. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. 16-31, “The River Connects Us.” All photos by APS Students, 9am-3pm. Hundreds of APS students’ individual drawings and photos will be on display by 67 first, second and third graders from Marie Hughes Elementary. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov.
Classes & Workshops
3, 10, 17, 24, Kadampa Center Meditation for Kids, Meditation for Kids
Online, 10-11:30am. In this lighthearted and fun class, children will build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to help increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-13, masks required. Free, Kadampa Med-
Albuquerque
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar
itation Ctr NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.
Cultural Centers & Museums
6, Free First Wednesday, 9am-5pm. General admission is free on the first Wed of the month. Timed ticketing applies. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com
Dance
22-24, “Sacred Journeys III,” 7pm 22nd, 23d & 2pm 24th. Festival Ballet Albuquerque presents a “Beautiful Collaboration of Music and Dance,” featuring Robert Mirabal, Jock Soto with Artistic Director Patricia Dickinson Wells. Additional choreographers New Mexican Dominic Guerra and internationally known Brazilian Vladimir Conde-Reche. Special Guests: traditonal Native American dancers, The Trujillo Family. At National HIspanic Cultural Center. Tickets $14-$48. 505-724-4771, festivalballetabq.org, nhccnm.org/events. 9 & 10, “How Love Wins,” 2pm. Presented by Magnify Dance Ensemble, this sequel to the holiday production, “Christmas Joy,” is inspired by the gospel and expressed through dance. $25/$33/$2 discount for students, seniors and members, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org, magnifydancecenter.com/ensemble.
Exhibits
1-30, “Dogs, A Science Tail,” 9am5pm, Wed-Mon. Discover life from a dog’s point of view in this exhibit, a richly interactive 9,000 sq. ft exhibit for humans with, “Tail as Old as Time,” “Dogs and Humans, Together Forever,” “The Incredible Dog,” “Caring for Dogs.” Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org.
1-30, “To The Moon: Snoopy Soars
with NASA,” 9am-5pm. This exhibit examines the history of NASA’s Apollo 10 and the Peanuts characters’ role in the at flight. Included with admission, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.
2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30, Sculp-
ture Garden Tours, 11am-noon. Take a stroll through the museum’s outdoor sculpture gardens, led by a knowledgeable docent. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 7646515, cabq.gov. 6, 13, 20, 27, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, storytime and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 224-8323, explora.us.
16-30, “The River Connects Us All,” Drawings and Photos by APS Stu-
dents, 9am-3pm. An artists team of 67 first, second and third graders present hundreds of individual drawings and photos combined into a series of colorful canvas mosaics. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov.
Fairs & Festivals
2-3, SW Chocolate & Coffee Fest,
10am-6pm. Indulge with more than 100 chocolatiers, coffee roasters, candy makers, bakers, breweries, wineries and gourmet food companies. There will be an indoor marketplace and an outdoor music stage and dining areas plus demonstrations, food pairings and competitions. Free under 3/$2 ages 3-12/$15 13 and older, Expo NM, Manuel Lujan Jr. Exhibit Complex, 300 San Pedro NE, 2229700, ChocolateAndCoffeeFest.com, holdmyticket.com.
28-30, Gathering of Nations Powwow & Miss Indian World Pageant,
7-11:30pm. The largest Native American festival in North America hosting more than 3,000 participants (dancers, singers, bands and vendors); RV camping available. $15-$80, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, gatheringofnations.com.
Just for Teens
9, Recycled Book Page Poetry, 23:30pm. Celebrate National Poetry Month with a fun, creative, easy craft. Use old books to make works of literary art, all materials supplied, ages 12+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. 16, Open Mic Night, 6-7:30pm. Recite original work or someone else's that inspires you, or show your support from the audience; 16+. Registration required for presenters and limited to 20. Performances limited to five minutes. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. 19, 2nd Annual ‘Burque Bee, 4:45pm. Open to teens and adults, teams of three will compete for spelling glory, teams play for points, not elimination. Proceeds support Ethos Literacy. $75 registration fee, Sawmill Market, 1909 Bellamah NW, ethosliteracy.org/burquebee.
Library Events
Dia de los Niños, various dates and times. ABQ area libraries celebrate Dia de los Niños with storytimes and crafts. This day is a celebration of children, families and reading that emphasizes the importance of literacy for children from all backgrounds. See website for full details, abqlibrary.org. 9, Snail Mail Social, 3-5pm. Stop by and write letters: revive the art of snail mail. Stationery, pens and other postal items will be provided. Free, Special Collections Library, 423 Central NE, 848-1376, abqlibrary.org. 13, Drip, Drip, Drop, 10:30am. Preschoolers will explore the properties of water, its shape, movement and the way different forces act upon it to make it move and change. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org.
14, Balancing Dragonfly or Butter-
fly, 3-4:30pm. An introduction to physics through concepts such as center of mass and gravity. Adapt, adjust and create a perfectly balanced butterfly through the trial and error of scientific method. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 2562065, abqlibrary.org. 16, Innovation Station, 2:30-4:30pm. Participate in STEAM activities; ages 9-18 (and their adults). Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org.
21, Balancing Dragonfly or Butter-
fly, 3-4:30pm. An introduction to physics through concepts such as center of mass and gravity. Adapt, adjust and create a perfectly balanced butterfly through the trial and error of scientific method. Free, South Valley Library, 39904 Isleta SW, 877-5179, abqlibrary.org. 22, Earth Day, 3:30pm. Come to this outdoor program on the lawn; enjoy a craft and plant a seedling; all ages. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. 22, Earth Day Family Craft, 4-5pm. Crafts for the whole family. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 2916295, abqlibrary.org.
Science & Nature
1, Animal Myths Discovery Day,
10am-2pm. Learn the truth about common animal myths with hands-on discovery stations. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th SW, 764-6214, cabq.gov. 1-5, Hanami Celebration, 10am-2pm. Tour the Japanese garden and enjoy the blossoms of five varieties of flowering cherry trees and other flowering plants. On the weekend, make origami tulips and view ikebana. Enjoy a do-it-yourself origami station. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov. 2, 9, 16, The Great Ape-ril, 10am-2pm. Celebrate great apes. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark, 903 1oth SW, 768-2000, cabq.gov. 9, Family Nature Club Hikes, 10am. Engage in hands-on learning as a family, listen to natural history fun facts, storytelling and seek out wildlife. Arrive prepared to explore the outdoors. Trail will accommodate larger wheeled strollers; registration required. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 7684950, play.cabq.gov. 16, Earth Day at the Zoo, 10am-2pm. Learn about conservation work that zoos and aquariums participate in and discover how to be a part of it. Free, ABQ Zoo, 903 10th SW, 848-7180, cabq.gov.
16, Saturday Explorer Camp: Cot-
tonwood Forest Creatures, 9am. Ages 6-10 can enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration, hands-on science, literacy and art activities. Children should attend prepared to explore the outdoors; registration required. $10, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, play.cabq.gov. 23, Children’s Seed Festival, 10am2pm. Play seed trivia, make seed balls and enjoy face painting. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden Children’s Fantasy Garden, 2601 Central NW, 848-7180, cabq.gov.
30, Early Childhood Family Class:
Cottonwood Forest Creatures, 10am. Ages 3-5 and their grown-ups. Make discoveries about the natural world with hands-on science, story time and an art project. Leave with a packet of ideas and activities to take home. $5, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors, 768-4950, play.cabq.gov.
State Parks Free Entrance Days:
schedules and details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parksstate.htm.
Stage
9 & 10, The Magic Flute, 7pm, Sat; 2pm, Sun. A pastoral tale of a young girl who loves a poor village boy, yet her mother wants her to marry the wealthy marquis. KiMo Theatre, 423 Central NW, 768-3544, abqtickets.com.
21 & 22, “Mary Poppins Jr.,” School
Group Performances, 10am. NM Young Actors present this award-winning Broadway musical with the nanny who proves herself to be magically wonderful with the children of Mr. and Mrs. Banks; call for reservations. $6, KiMo Theatre, 432 Central NW, 821-8055, abqtickets.com. 23 & 24, “Mary Poppins Jr.,” 2pm. NM Young Actors present this award-winning Broadway musical with the nanny who proves herself to be magically wonderful with the children of Mr. and Mrs. Banks. $10 12 and under/$12 adults, KiMo Theatre, 432 Central NW, 821-8055, abqtickets.com, nmyoungactors.org.
Especially for Parents
1, Kids’ Night Out, 6-10pm. Parents can have a night out while their kids enjoy recreation, games, dinner, a dance party and movies; grades K-8. $10, Paradise Hills Community Center, 5901 Paradise, bernco.gov.
Also of Interest
New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.
Ongoing, Kids’ Imagination Trail.
Bring the kids to run, jump and play. Don’t forget to visit the other animals too. Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage Rd, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org.
Albuquerque
Corrales International School is a tuition-free, grade-A, public charter school, serving K-12 students in Albuquerque. All secondary-school students, 8th grade and up, are on an accelerated learning track that includes PLTW’s Biomedical Sciences, with a transition into concurrent and dual-enrollment with CNM/UNM. CIS provides students with a unique opportunity to enroll in a school dedicated to creating an environment rich in intellectual stimulation, that promotes a sense of wonder, curiosity and motivation that will prepare students to be life-long learners.
A dynamic Art and Music program Full immersion program for Spanish High quality programming which supports development of inquiring and knowledgeable students World Civilizations, Cultures and Global Citizenship Disney Academy Service-Learning partnered with UNM Disney Innovation PLTW Biomedical Sciences
Innovative “Leaders in Training” program Natural Helper Program For more information or to apply: Please visit our website! Corralesis.org
This is a good place to briefly, but e ec vely, describe your product or services.
Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates of events can change so be sure to call ahead. Due to COVID, venues have different rules. Please check ahead. To have your events listed free in our next calendar, fill out our calendar form at newmexico-kids.com, or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is April 13 for listings in May/June. Calendar listings are not guaranteed because of space limitations. All phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
March
Arts & Crafts
6, 13, 20, 27, Make & Take @ MOIFA,
noon-4pm. DIY art projects, all-ages coloring sheets and self-guided treasure hunts. Add to your exploration of the museum collection-inspired bilingual art kits. Included with admission (free for kids and members, first Sunday), Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org. 10, Online: Drawing Class, 5-6:30pm. Join for an intimate virtual class and try drawing methods that O’Keeffe used. Supplies needed are a pencil or pen and paper; colored pencils or pastels are optional; ages 12+, children can participate alongside their adults. $5/$20/$30, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.
12, Family Mornings at Folk Art:
Light and Shadow, 11am-noon. Storytime, art activity and exploration in the galleries. Free, Museum of International Folk art, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.
30, Online Class: Introduction to
Watercolor, 5-6:30pm. Learn techniques to help create a watercolor artwork, explore Georgia O’Keeffe’s techniques. You’ll need watercolor paints, round paintbrushes (small, medium and large), watercolor paper, table salt and a white crayon. Ages 12+, children can participate with their adults; space limited, reservations required. $ $5/$20/$30, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.
Cultural Centers & Museums
4, 11, 18, 25, Fine Art Fridays, 2-4pm. Exploration into the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities that encourage children to explore their creativity. Included with admission, SF Children’s SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
6, NM Residents are Free at Museum of International Folk Art,
10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under & foundation members are always free, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.
6, NM Residents Free at NM History
Museum, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under always free, 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org.
6, NM Residents Free at NM Museum
of Art, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under always free, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.
7, 14, 21, 28, Meow Wolf Monday
Funday, 3-8pm. A limited number of tickets are half off between 3-8pm for NM residents with promo code MONDAYFUNDAY. Bring kids after school for some immersive fun. $7.50-$12.50, Meow Wolf, 1352 Rufina Cir, 395-6369, meowwolf.com/visit/santa-fe.
Library Events
Area Libraries offer activities including Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Storytimes, Crafts, Movies and Knitting Clubs.
Check websites for calendars and details: santafelibrary.org, vglibrary.org.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Children’s Chess
Online. Learn to play chess with other kids; a virtual event. Free, santafelibrary.org.
2, 9, 23, 30, Kids Sing-Along with
Queen Bee Music Association, 3:15pm. Singalong with Teacher Brian to fun tunes. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
4, 18, Emotional Intelligence for Lit-
tles (Virtual), 11am. Spend time with a child learning about emotions; recommended for ages 4-7. Free, santafelibrary.org.
4, 18, Meditation: Connect and
Engage (Virtual), 9:30 am. Learn kidfriendly meditation practices; recommended for ages 7-11. Free, santafelibrary.org.
Music
31, Drum Tao 2022, 7:30pm. With fiery and athletic drumming routines, this Japanese taiko drumming ensemble performs a wide assortment of drums ranging from hand-held to up to three tons. Drumming, choreography and vibrant sets. $25-$58, Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco, 988-1234, lensic.org/events/drum-tao-2022.
School Break Camps
14-18, Audubon NM Spring Break
Camp, 9-3pm. Join Audubon educators for a week of nature exploration, games and crafts; space limited. $60/day, Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary, 1800 Upper Canyon, 983-4609, nm.audubon.org/camp-programs.
14-18, Santa Fe Children’s Museum
Spring Break Camp 2022, all day. Adventure into the world of superheroes, make invincible armor, race through a maze of lasers, create action scenes with green screen, and build bombs that explode in the bathtub. Kick off the week with a private show of ageappropriate superhero movies at the CCA and end with a presentation about super animal adaptations from the NM Wildlife Center. Call for details, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
14-18, Winter Break Camps, Genoveva Chavez Community Center,
8am-5:30pm. This camp is for children 612 (proof of age required). Please provide a full sack lunch and snack. Activities are group activities and include sports, games and arts and crafts. Cost is based on sliding scale, 3221 Rodeo, 955-4005, chavezcenter.com/youth-programs.
14-18, Wise Fool’s Kids Circus Spring
Break Camp, 9am-3:30pm. A space to have fun and learn circus arts in a safe, non-competitive environment; no experience required; ages 7-12. $350, Wise Fool NM, 1131 Siler, Suite B, 992-2588, wisefoolnewmexico.org.
Science & Nature
2, Birding with Bob, 7am-noon. Bob Walker will chat with participants and point out birds visiting the feeders. Register in advance, space limited. Free, PEEC Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Wee Wednesdays,
10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story-time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Seeds & Sprouts,
10:30-11:30am. Kids explore nature: from fun in the Backyard to in-house programming children learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardeningrelated practices. Included with admission/free 17 and under 4-6pm, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 4, The Night Sky, Astronomy Talk, 78pm. Learn what can be seen in the night sky this month including constellations and planets. $4 child/$6 adult, PEEC Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org.
5, 12, 19, 26, Feeding of Cornelius
the Snake, 1pm. The beloved corn snake gets to socialize with children during this informal meet and greet; watch his weekly feeding. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
5, 12, 19, 26, Public Garden Tour,
1pm-1:45pm. A family-friendly introduction to the Garden; topics vary. Included with admission, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.
20, Community Day at the Garden,
10am-4pm. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students with ID. Free, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.
Storytelling
3, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with SF Fire Department to bring a storytime where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
3, Storytime and Craft: Circus
Theme, 10:30am. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafelibrary.org.
5, NM Wildlife Center Storytime
with a Salamander, 1pm. Hear stories about salamanders and meet a salamander from the Wildlife Center. Free, Southside Library Branch 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
5, 12, 19, 26, Bilingual Books and
Babies, 10am. Join for books, songs and finger games for ages 6 months - 2 years. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 9552820, santafelibrary.org.
8, Fire Safety Storytime with Fire-
man Jeff Folgate, 10:30am. Fireman Jeff Folgate from the SF County Fire Department will read a fire safety story and show listeners his fire gear. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
9, Storytime and Craft, Frog Theme,
10:30am. Hop in to hear some frog stories and do crafts. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4860, santafelibrary.org.
10, Fire Safety Storytime with Fire-
man Jeff Folgate, 10:30am. Fireman Jeff Folgate from the SF County Fire Department will read a fire safety story and show listeners his fire gear. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafelibrary.org. 17, Family Full Moon Hike, 6:30-8pm. A two-mile guided hike with staff and an astrophysicist under the full moon; all ages. Free, PEEC Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org.
17, Storytime and Craft, Holi Theme,
10:30am. Free, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafelibrary.org .
18, The Scale of the Universe (Live
Astronomy Planetarium Talk), 78pm. Take a journey from Earth to the outer edge of the visible universe. Free, PEEC Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org.
22, Storytime and Craft, Spring
Theme, 10:30am. Free, Southside
Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar
Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
23, Storytime and Craft, Caterpillars
and Butterflies Theme, 10:30am. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4860, santafelibrary.org.
Also of Interest
5, 12, 19, 26, Saturday Farmers Mar-
ket, 8am-1pm. Get fresh produce, crafts and body care. Free, Santa Fe Railyard Market Pavilion, 1607 Paseo De Peralta, 983-7726, railyardsantafe.com. New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.
April
Arts & Crafts
16, Family Mornings at Folk Art:
Celebrations: Lunar New Year, 11amnoon. Storytime, art activity and exploration in the galleries. Free, Museum of International Folk art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.
Apr 19, Online Class: Introduction
to Watercolor, 5-6:30pm. Learn techniques to help create a watercolor artwork, explore Georgia O’Keeffe’s techniques. You’ll need watercolor paints, round paintbrushes (small, medium and large), watercolor paper, table salt and a white crayon. Ages 12+, children can participate with their adults; space limited, reservations required. $5/$20/$30, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 9461000, okeeffemuseum.org.
Cultural Centers & Museums
1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Fine Art Fridays, 24pm. Exploration into the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities that encourage children to explore their creativity and be artistic. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
3, NM Residents Free at Museum of International Folk Art,
10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under and foundation members are always free, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.
3, NM Residents Free at NM History
Museum, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under always free, 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org.
3, NM Residents Free at NM Museum
of Art, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under always free, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.
4, 11, 18, 25, Meow Wolf Monday
Funday, 3-8pm. A limited number of tickets are half off between 3-8pm for NM residents with promo code MONDAYFUNDAY. Bring kids after school for immersive fun. $7.50-$12.50, Meow Wolf, 1352 Rufina Cir, 395-6369, meowwolf.com/visit/santa-fe. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has links with information like reopenings for museums, historic sites and other institutions that have resources, activities and exhibits online. The “Visit Virtually” section includes links to NM museums, cultural centers and libraries, newmexicoculture.org.
Library Events
1, 15, 29, Emotional Intelligence for
Littles (Virtual), 11am. Spend time with a child learning about emotions; recommended for ages 4-7. Free, santafelibrary.org.
1, 15, 29, Meditation: Connect and
Engage (Virtual), 9:30 am. Learn kidfriendly meditation practices; recommended for ages 7-11. Free, santafelibrary.org.
6, 13, 20, 27, Kids Sing-Along with
Queen Bee Music Association, 2pm. Singalong with Teacher Brian to fun tunes. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
6, 13, 20, 27, Children’s Chess
Online, 5:45pm. Learn to play chess with other kids; a virtual event. Free, santafelibrary.org.
30, My Little Horse Listener Visit,
1:30pm. Enjoy Dia de los Libros with a visit from some of the best listeners in town; the horses and friends. They will be at the library for children and families to enjoy. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
Music
27, Uke Jam with Queen Bee Music
Association, 4 pm. Enjoy playing a little uke with instructor Brian. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
Open House
3, Camino de Paz Montessori Secondary School & Farm Open House,
1-4pm. A school where life and learning are connected, academics are applied to real life experiences and teens are respected as members of a productive, harmonious learning community. Free, 231-2819, caminodepaz.net.
Science & Nature
2, Bilingual Books and Babies, 10am. Books, songs and finger games for children 6 months-2 years. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feeding of Cornelius
the Snake, 1pm. The beloved corn snake gets to socialize with children during this informal meet and greet; watch his weekly feeding. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 6, Birding with Bob, 7am-noon. Bob Walker will chat with participants and point out birds visiting the feeders. Register in advance, space limited. Free, PEEC Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org.
6, 13, 20, 27, Wee Wednesdays,
10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story-time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 7, 14, 21, 28, Seeds & Sprouts, 10:3011:30am. Kids explore nature: from fun in the backyard to in-house programming children learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission/free 17 and under 4-6pm, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
22, Community Day at the Garden,
10am-4pm. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students with ID. Free, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.
Storytelling
7, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with SF Fire Department to bring a storytime where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.
7, Storytime and Craft, Caterpillars
and Butterflies, 10:30am. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafelibrary.org.
9, 16, 23, 30, Bilingual Books and
Babies, 10am. Join for books, songs and finger games for ages 6 months - 2 years. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 9552820, santafelibrary.org.
12, Storytime and Craft, Earth
Theme, 10:30am. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820 santafelibrary.org.
13, Storytime and Craft, Magic of
Libraries Theme, 10:30am. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4860, santafelibrary.org.
21, Storytime and Craft, Spring
Flowers Theme, 10:30 am. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafelibrary.org.
26, Storytime and Craft, Rain
Theme, 10:30 am. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
27, Storytime and Craft, Spring
Flowers Theme, 10:30 am. Free, La Farge, 1730 Llano, 955-4860, santafelibrary.org.
30, Bilingual Storytime and Craft
for Dia de los Libros, 3pm. Hear stories in Spanish and English in celebration of Dia de los Libros, Day of the Book. Enjoy crafts afterwards. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.
Also of Interest
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 , Saturday Farmers
Market, 8am-1pm. Get fresh produce, crafts and body care. Free, Santa Fe Railyard Market Pavilion, 1607 Paseo De Peralta, 983-7726, railyardsantafe.com. New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.
Pickle Ball
Not Just for Seniors Anymore!
By EFRAIN VILLA
When a loved and reviled condiment makes up the major part of a sport’s name, it is pretty much guaranteed that said sport is also going to conjure up strong feelings for both young and young-at-heart athletes who partake in it. Fortunately, pickleball is much less divisive than the eponymous fermented cucumber. Generally speaking, anyone who has tried pickleball tends to sing its praises.
Lucas and his older brother Logan, 9, both learned about pickleball at summer camp. To Logan it makes perfect sense that pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation. “It’s like an easy tennis sport, but easier and way more fun,” says Logan.
Libbiey Lill, Logan and Lucas’ mother, agrees that the ease of the sport’s learning curve is what makes it so attractive, especially to kids. “It’s an accessible sport because you really just need two paddles and a pickleball to get started, so compared with other sports, it can be relatively inexpensive,” says Libbiey. She adds that with so many pickleball courts appearing in public parks and the small scale of the courts being much more manageable for smaller bodies than tennis courts, it makes sense that parents feel the sport is a good match for younger children. But younger kids are only now beginning to join the upswell in pickleball interest. Jeremy Dyche, of New Mexico’s PRO Sports in Albuquerque, says pickleball enthusiasts across the nation have been recruiting younger people into the relatively new game. “For a long time, it was a 60-plus age bracket; that older group was like 70 percent of the pickleball community,” says Dyche. “We’re just now starting to see younger adults and juniors getting into it, which is why our company is working to introduce the sport into schools. We want to expand the sport as quickly as possible with people who can grow up loving it.” So what exactly is pickleball? Pickleball is a blend of badminton, tennis and ping pong that began in 1965 as an American backyard diversion. It has more recently become an international phenomenon. Players only need paddles, a wiffle-like ball and a small portable net. It is played as both singles and doubles. There are several legends about where the comical name originated that are far more colorful than the truth, which is that the name alludes to the hodgepodge element shared with pickle boat crews. Regardless of which origin story one chooses to believe, though, pickleball remains a hilariously named sport and an entertaining activity.
Harper, 7, hits a forehand playing pickleball at The Canyon Club at Four Hills in Albuquerque. Courtesy photos. Brecken, 5 (left), keeps his eye on the ball while playing pickelball with Jackson, 5 (center) and Harper, 7.
Brecken, 5, and Harper, 7, have some fun during a pickleball game.
Unlike other activities that require a lot of training and commitment to enjoy, pickleball is an easy add-on activity for children who already have a lot on their plates. “This is a great sport for children who are really busy pursuing other passions because they wouldn’t necessarily have to compromise on academics or their commitment to other sports. This is just a fun, low-stakes way to be active,” says Dyche.
The current growth trajectory of pickleball might mean that one day the sport is a featured event in the Olympics, at least that is the hope of people like Dyche.
As with many outdoor activities during the pandemic, pickleball grew significantly. This surge might have permanent implications for how public playgrounds and parks look. The impressive 20-percent boost in pickleball interest during the peak of the pandemic injected a lot of energy and resources into the sport that caught the attention of community leaders and politicians.
The low-cost factors that make the sport so attractive to individuals also make the sport appealing to municipal governments seeking to expand their cities’ public recreational offerings. Tennis courts can easily be updated to also accommodate pickleball games with simple striping overlays. Capital outlay investments can simply amount to the cost of paint and the hours it takes to lay down the new striping. The added benefit of the downscaled pickleball court size is that each tennis court can accommodate up to four pickleball courts.
For do-it-yourselfers, there are plenty of online blueprints for creating a pickleball court on a driveway or backyard slab of concrete using chalk. In large indoor areas, such as school gyms, simple duct tape can be placed on the floor to demark the court boundaries.
Because picking up the sport is so easy, families are finding that it is a
good intergenerational activity. Grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy the activity together without too much emphasis on athletic ability. Also, because the court’s scale forces players to be much closer to each other, on-the-court socializing is all but guaranteed.
To get started, would-be pickleballers can watch a few how-to videos online and head to one of the many parks recently restriped with pickleball courts or make a court at home. For more detailed instructions, people can sign up for classes through organizations like PRO Sports (prosportsnm).
