Vacation Week Sanity Savers

Top picks for entertaining the family during the school break

Published: Dec 25, 2010

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Bendel Mansion

Photo:stamfordmuseum.org

The kids have unwrapped the gadgets and games and are already saying "I'm bored!" Here are my suggestions for activities that will be fun for the whole family. Some of these events are ending soon, so don't delay!

The Penguins are Marching (on January 2nd)

African Penguin exhibit at the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk

The African Penguins are stealing hearts daily in an outdoor display at the Aquarium’s riverfront courtyard, with plenty of viewing windows above and below the water line but they will soon be gone. Don’t miss your chance to see them one last time.

A special backstage meet-and-greet the penguins is available daily until they leave. Take this last chance to personally and memorably say hi before the birds say goodbye.

For information on special backstage penguin tours and general admission to the Aquarium visit http://www.maritimeaquarium.org

"Native Words, Native Warriors"

Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center , Mashantucket

Learn the fascinating story of World War I and World War II American Indian code talkers and how the cultural backgrounds made possible their unique and valuable contribution to the war effort.

Also on display:

Tree of Nations
The Tree of Nations, in the Gathering Space during December, is decorated with hand-crafted, culturally meaningful ornaments created by many tribal nations from across North America.

Both Exhibits end December 31st

For ticket information and hours visit: http://www.pequotmuseum.org

Dolls, Toys & Teddy Bears: Playthings of Yesteryear

Stamford Museum and Nature Center, Stamford

Get their wiggles out:

Take them to see vintage toys of our parents and grandparents, featuring dolls, toys and teddy bears dating from the late 1800s through the 1950s. Several of the museum’s pedal cars will also be featured, together with automobile toys from the 1930s and 1940s.

The Stamford Museum & Nature Center includes 80 acres of walking trails, Heckscher farm (with animals), a planetarium and observatory.

The vintage toy exhibit ends January 9, 2011

For ticket information and hours visit www.stamfordmuseum.org

"Frosty the Snowman"

Cabaret Children's Theatre, Bridgeport

It is a new, "Glee"-full take on the tale. Can Frosty keep from melting, help his new friends, a group of singing kids from the local elementary school win the Holiday Harmony Glee Club Competition, and hang on to his magic hat long enough to make a few wishes come true? Filled with familiar songs, old and new, you will be singing along from start to finish.

Last Shows December 29th noon and 2:30

For ticket information: (203) 576-1636 or http://www.dtcab.com