Weeknight Fun for the Working Mom

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workingmomAs a working mom, I was feeling the struggle. Whenever I searched for children’s events, it seemed that every cool program in town takes place at 10 a.m. on a weekday! I want my son to interact with other kids, but by the time we made it to the neighborhood playground, there was hardly a playmate in sight. So, I’ve learned where to look for great evening events and places that are fun for the whole family. Here are a few places to frequent if you’re in the 9-5 boat with me (or stay home and want your partner to join in the fun)!

  • Your Local Library This is probably my favorite reliable source for evening programs. From family craft nights to themed events for teens, library events are often free and always high quality. Check your county library event calendar and I bet you’ll find something.
  • Bookstores From Blue Manatee to Joseph-Beth, bookstores (especially local ones) are excellent sources for reading-related happenings in the evening. From story time to children’s book signings, these events appeal to even the littlest bookworms.
  • Museums and the Zoo Check these calendars for special evening events such as concerts and educational presentations. Many also offer field experiences or classes. Also check places such as Pyramid Hill and Spring Grove Cemetery, which offer tours and other unique events.
  • Downtown Play Areas We love to try new playgrounds since the one in our suburban neighborhood gets boring during the week. I’ve found that Smale and Washington Parks are always hopping, even on a weeknight. As a bonus, you can enjoy the cooler evening hours!
  • Make Your Own As you may have found, most play dates and toddler story times happen during the day. There’s no rule against making your own, though! Join one of our neighborhood groups to connect with other moms and suggest meetups.

A few upcoming events:

Fairy Tale Tea at Clermont County Library Union Twp. Branch

Tuesday, July 5;  6:45-7:30 p.m.  

Bring your little ones for a themed tea with games , stories and songs. Call (513)528-1744 to register.

Oakley After Hours at Blue Manatee

Friday, July 8; 6 p.m.

Join Miss Sarah and Miss Kelli for storytime and a craft. Call 513-731-2665 to reserve your spot.

Tuesday Summer Family Nights at Spring Grove Cemetery

Tuesdays in June, July and August; 6-8 p.m.

45 miles of paved roads are open to non-motorized transportation (strollers, bikes, wheelchairs) and foot traffic (as well as rental Segways!)  for the duration of this event.

Full Moon Walk at Cincinnati Nature Center

Tue, July 19  9:00-10:30 p.m.

Suggested for families with kids age 8 and up, this late-night event is well worth being a little tired in the morning! See site for registration.

Macy’s Kids, Cultures, Critters and Crafts Festival at Cincinnati Zoo

Wednesday, July 20, 2016; 10-6 p.m. (catch the tail end of this all-day event)

Enjoy $1 admission, which means if you spend just an hour or two at this event it’s worth it! Kids can enjoy a variety of learning activities at this great event.

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Jenny Reed
I am a Cincinnati native, wife to Neil and mom to a 2 ½ year old boy named Wally. I am a project manager and consultant by trade and I am also the author of Cincinnati Day Trips, a guide to interesting places within one day’s journey from the city center. I’ll never pass up a roadside attraction and love car trips. I recently took up sewing and have a fabric stash that is entirely too large already. I share my adventures, mishaps and projects on my Twitter and Instagram accounts, @suburbinnati.

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