Ready, set, play! This week’s kid-friendly lineup has plenty to keep young minds busy, from Pokémon and robotics to building with LEGOs and blocks. There’s also a steam train ride to a pumpkin …
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Ready, set, play!
This week’s kid-friendly lineup has plenty to keep young minds busy, from Pokémon and robotics to building with LEGOs and blocks. There’s also a steam train ride to a pumpkin patch, where families can enjoy fall fun and bring home a pumpkin of their own.
Whether they’re building a robot, battling with trading cards or climbing aboard a train, there’s no shortage of ways for kids to get out, get creative and maybe wear themselves out just a little.
Parents, consider it a win-win.
If you would like to see your event included in future listings, submit it at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/calendar.
What: Wales West RV Resort & Light Railway will host its Pumpkin Patch Express, where guests can ride “Dame Ann,” an authentic steam locomotive, to the Pumpkin Patch and optional spooky maze. The train ride before 7 p.m. is geared toward children and families. Every ticket includes a free pumpkin, refreshments, mini train rides, a hay-less hayride, mini golf and a bounce house. Guests also can enjoy the potato cannon for an additional fee. Food will be available for purchase at the Café and concessions stand, which will offer traditional fare, kettle corn and other treats. A gift shop also will be open for train enthusiasts. After 7 p.m., the SCARY night train will begin and is aimed toward adults. Tickets can be purchased at the railroad or online at www.waleswest.com. For more information, call (251) 232-2322 or contact Wales West through Facebook.
When: Friday-Sunday, Oct. 2-4, 4-9 p.m.; kid-friendly day train before 7 p.m.; SCARY night train after 7 p.m.
Where: Wales West RV Resort & Light Railway, 13670 Smiley St., Silverhill
Price: $25 per person; children 2 and younger free
What: The Gulf Coast Robotics Challenge will bring together students in grades 3-12 for a retro-style robotics competition inspired by the University of Alabama Robotics Contest. Challenges will be released on the day of the event and will be based on classic board games. Students will compete using fully autonomous robots within a 13-by-13-by-13-inch size limit. The event also will feature the Brain Drone Racing League as a side challenge. No equipment is required. The competition is being held in conjunction with Dr. Chris Crawford of the University of Alabama. Teams can register at https://forms.gle/EZUt7UpAjcMMNbBH9. For general information about the competition format and rules, visit http://outreach.cs.ua.edu/robotics-contest/. For questions, contact Jamie McClung at jmclung@gsboe.org.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 7:30 a.m.
Where: Gulf Shores Middle School, 600 E. 15th Ave., Gulf Shores
Price: $125 per team
What: Orange Beach Public Library will host its monthly Magic: The Gathering session for registrants ages 10-18. Participants can play, learn and connect over the popular collectible card game. All skill levels are welcome, including players who are brand new to the game. New packs will be opened and given away at each session while supplies last. Registration is required through the library website at www.orangebeachlibrary.gov. For more information, contact Orange Beach Public Library at (251) 981-2923.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-5 p.m.
Where: Orange Beach Public Library, 26267 Canal Road, Orange Beach
Price: Free admission
What: Fairhope Public Library will open its Activity Room for unstructured free play and exploration. The room will be stocked with Lincoln Logs, blocks, LEGOs and more. Children of all ages can stop by, build and explore at their own pace. Parents and caregivers are required to directly supervise children and help clean up after play.
When: Monday, Oct. 5, 9:15 a.m.-noon
Where: Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope
Price: Free admission
