Peoria
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It's Time to Create Your Summer Bucket List!
What will be at the top of your "must do's?"
With the end of the school year so close, it's easy to let our thoughts drift to summer. At least it is at our house!
Last summer, right as school was ending, we made a list of all our "must do's" for months of June, July and August. (Click here to see what was on last year's list.) It was a list of both at-home and out-and-about activities that represented and included all the people in our family and worked with our available time and budget.
This ...
Macaroni Cares: Wildlife Weekend
And a chance to win a RCA HD video camera!
Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems.
Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.
Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.
To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...
Stay Safe on the Playground This Summer
Summer is nearly upon us and that means a lot more of the kids and a lot less for them to do! Playgrounds are a go-to place for moms and kids alike so it's important to remember "safety first" when it comes to playing at your local playground.
Moms are safety experts when it comes to their kids yet it's easy to accidentally become complacent and overlook the little things when in familiar surroundings like a playground. Take this refresher course and be sure your kids are extra ...
Moms are safety experts when it comes to their kids yet it's easy to accidentally become complacent and overlook the little things when in familiar surroundings like a playground. Take this refresher course and be sure your kids are extra ...
Keep Kids Moving this Summer with ZumbAtomic!
Registration now open for this high-energy dance/exercise class
Designed exclusively for kids, Zumbatomic is a dance party with games, high energy dance and music and the best part is your kids will never realize that they are exercising. Classes increase focus and self-confidence, boost metabolism and improve coordination.
Peoria Park District is offering 4 five-week sessions for ages 4-7 at 10:15-11 a.m. on Tuesdays and ages 8-12 at 3:30 to 4:25 p.m. on Thursdays beginning June 7. Classes are held at the Franciscan Recreation Complex Dance Studio and are taught by certified instructor ...
Peoria Park District is offering 4 five-week sessions for ages 4-7 at 10:15-11 a.m. on Tuesdays and ages 8-12 at 3:30 to 4:25 p.m. on Thursdays beginning June 7. Classes are held at the Franciscan Recreation Complex Dance Studio and are taught by certified instructor ...
We Love Mom-owned Businesses!
That's why, during the month of May, we're offering mom-owned businesses the opportunity to reach families in the Central Illinois Area with a one-year listing in Peoria Macaroni Kid's Business Directory at a discounted rate. If you're a mom - or know a mom - who owns a family-friendly business in the tri-county area, email Melissa at melissah@macaronikid.com!
And, if you are looking for a family-friendly business, be sure to check out our growing list of "Macaroni-approved" listings of goods and services!
And, if you are looking for a family-friendly business, be sure to check out our growing list of "Macaroni-approved" listings of goods and services!
May 17th through May 21st
Thursday, May 17 - Power of Play Fundraiser
Have you heard about the Peoria Playhouse Children’s Museum being constructed next to the Peoria Zoo? The Junior League of Peoria and the Peoria Zoological Society have teamed up for the Power of Play campaign to build the museum and create a daylong experience for children. As children play, they learn to solve problems, to get along with others and to develop gross motor skills needed to grow and learn. On May 17, the Power of Play campaign is holding a fundraiser at Joe’s Crab Shack on the Peoria Riverfront. Join us from 4 to 9 p.m. and a portion of sales will be donated to the Power of Play campaign to help fund the Playhouse.
Where: Joe's Crab Shack, located on the Peoria Riverfront.When: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PMWho: All agesHow: See you there!Cost: A portion of sales will be donated to the Power of Play campaign to help fund the Playhouse.
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Saturday, May 19 - Clyde West Fishing Derby
Toss in a line and see if you can reel in one of our specially tagged fish to win a prize! Don’t have a pole? Borrow one through our “Loan A Pole” program, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Bait, concessions, and basic fishing supplies will be available for purchase. Many thanks to Firefighters Local #50, Presley’s Outdoors, and Izaak Walton League for their continued sponsorship of this FREE event. 9-11 a.m. • Ages 9 & Under; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. • Ages 10-13; 1-3 p.m. • Seniors/Those With Disabilities
Where: Glen Oak Amphitheatre, located at 2218 N. Prospect Road in Peoria.When: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PMWho: All ages! See description for times by age group.How: Questions? Contact Samantha Neal at (309) 681-2854 or email sneal@peoriaparks.org.Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - May Flowers Kids Cooking Class
Our Hy-Vee Little Sprouts Cooking Club will be in for a Celebration of May Please join us for this class honoring May Day, Cinco De Mayo and Memorial Day.
Where: Hy-Vee, located in Sheridan Village in Peoria.When: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PMWho: Best for ages 3 and upHow: Email Susan at swaltrip@hy-vee.com or stop by customer service to sign up. Please pre-pay when you register for the class.Cost: $5/child
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Sunday, May 20 - Free Family Golf and Bowling Event
MOSAIC and Children's Hospital of Illinois are hosting an afternoon of bowling and mini golf at an event designed to raise awareness about the Children's Hospital of Illinois.
Where: Mt Hawley Bowl, located at 8200 N. Hale Ave. in Peoria.When: 1:00 PMWho: Great for the whole family!How: Space is limited so to reserve your e-ticket email Erin Craig at erin.e.craig@osfhealthcare.org. Please let Erin know how many people are in your group.Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 21 - Sign and PlayGroup at Created Just By Me
Join Communication Junction for a 45-minute play time. Each monthly play group will focus on a different concept (i.e., toys, colors, shapes). We will play, sing songs and blow bubbles. Each family will leave with a review sheet of the day's activities. This month's theme is "Bugs."
Where: Created Just By Me, located on the square in Washington.When: 10:00 AMWho: Parents and children of all agesHow: Please RSVP to reserve your spot. Email communicationjunction@yahoo.com or call (309) 453-3538.Cost: Drop in fee is $10. Purchase a Sign and Play Group punch card, good for 9 Play Group sessions for $85. Each additional child is $5 to cover supply costs.
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May 17th through May 23rd
Thursday, May 17 - Tadpoles Storytime - North Branch
Are you looking for a storytime that is just right for your 2 or 3 year old? Join us for stories, songs, activities, and easy crafts that are a perfect fit for little ones who are too big for the baby storytime but not quite ready for the preschool storytime.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Children ages 2 – 3 years and their caregivers are welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Thursday, May 17 - Puppet Show: “Monster Reads” – Lincoln Branch
Come help Monster find some library books to read!
Where: The Lincoln Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1312 W. Lincoln Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM (A second show will be held at 2 p.m.)Who: All ages welcome.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
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Friday, May 18 - Motor Mites
This open gym for ages 1-5 is a great way to let little ones with lots of energy enjoy the fun of playing freely with scooters, balls, hula hoops, tumbling equipment, and more. It’s a great way for children and parents to socialize. Parents must attend. Groups are Welcome at Motor Mites!
Where: The Franciscan Recreation Complex, located at 908 N. Sterling Ave. in West Peoria.When: 9:15 AM - 11:15 AM (Also Friday afternoons from 1-3 p.m.)Who: Ages 1-5 and a parentHow: No registration required.Cost: $2 per visit or $20 for a 12-visit pass
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Friday, May 18 - Fun Time Storytime – North Branch
Fun stories and crafts for children ages 3-6.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:15 AM - 10:45 AMWho: Children ages 3-6.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Friday, May 18 - Fun Time Storytime – North Branch
Fun stories and crafts for children ages 3-6.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 1:00 PM - 1:30 PMWho: Children ages 3-6.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Friday, May 18 - Celebrating Children’s Authors Series: Mo Willems – Lakeview Branch
Bring your family to a storytime celebrating acclaimed author and illustrator Mo Willems! Hear stories from his bestselling and award winning series and enjoy character-related crafts and games. Mo Willems is the author of Knuffle Bunny and the Elephant and Piggy and Don’t Let the Pigeon… series.
Where: The Lakeview Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1137 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria.When: 3:30 PM - 4:15 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Friday, May 18 - Friday Night Fun
Friday Night Fun is unstructured gym time where children can play and/or work on mastering their gymnastics skills in a safe, fun and friendly environment. Jump Start staff members will be on hand to supervise and assist the students who get to choose which equipment and skills they want to practice. Friday Night Fun begins with a short and fun warm-up, continues with open gym, a break for a delicious snack and ends with fun games and activities. Bring a friend! You don't have to be a student at Jump Start to attend!
Where: Jump Start Gymnastics, located at 8820 N. Industrial Rd. in Peoria.When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PMWho: Children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. All participating children must be signed in at the front desk by an adult before entering the gym.How: Call (309) 692-JUMP today to reserve your spot!Cost: $10/child
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Saturday, May 19 - Migratory Bird Walk
Search for spring migrants and resident birds of Forest Park with a naturalist or a guide from Peoria Audubon. Please bring your own binoculars (we have a few to lend out). All levels of experience appreciated!
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 7:30 AM - 8:30 AMWho: Best for ages 10 and up.How: No registration required.Cost: Donations requested.
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Saturday, May 19 - Board Game Saturday! - North Branch
Do you like board games? Monopoly, Battleship or Apples to Apples? Then grab some friends and join us for Board Game Saturdays. New games are chosen every month, but if you have a favorite, bring it along.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: Drop in for a round or an entire game!Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - Exploring Nature with Your Child or Grandchild
“Grown-ups” and kids will take part in several activities in this group adventure aimed at exploring nature together, using as many senses as possible. All activities will be aimed at providing ways children and adults can have fun together while experiencing nature.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PMWho: Children ages 6-10 and their parents or grandparents.How: Please pre-register by calling the Nature Center at (309) 686-3360.Cost: $2/per person
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Saturday, May 19 - How to Train Your Dragon – Lincoln Branch
Come to the library to watch this fun movie!
Where: The Lincoln Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1312 W. Lincoln Ave. in Peoria.When: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - Family Activity Hour - Whales
Enjoy fun stories, activities, and snacks for the whole family. Listen to the book, I Wish I Were a Humpback Whale. We will make a white whale out of a children's sock and make an origami whale hat!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PMWho: Bring the whole family!How: Please register for this program at the Youth Services desk. Call (309) 347-7111.Cost: FREE
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Sunday, May 20 - Signs of Spring
Come celebrate spring on these great hikes in May. Discover spring wildflowers, insects and colorful birds on these hikes.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PMWho: Best for ages 10 and up.How: No pre-registration required.Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 21 - Motor Mites
This open gym for ages 1-5 is a great way to let little ones with lots of energy enjoy the fun of playing freely with scooters, balls, hula hoops, tumbling equipment, and more. It’s a great way for children and parents to socialize. Parents must attend. Groups are Welcome at Motor Mites!
Where: The Franciscan Recreation Complex, located at 908 N. Sterling Ave. in West Peoria.When: 9:15 AM - 11:15 AM (Also Friday afternoons from 1-3 p.m.)Who: Ages 1-5 and a parentHow: No registration required.Cost: $2 per visit or $20 for a 12-visit pass
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Monday, May 21 - Tiny Tots Storytime – North Branch
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your child and other parents of little ones as you sing, clap, listen, and explore together. Rhymes, stories, songs, and a social time where both children and parents can interact with each other will be part of this lively session.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:10 AMWho: Babies 12 – 23 months and their caregivers are welcome.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 21 - Kidz Klub
Join the fun with Kidz Klub, a reading group for children ages 6 to 10. Each month will follow a different theme or genre, from which group members will choose their own book to read. We'll discuss the theme, what we like or don't like about the books, make "book swaps" with other group members, and do fun, book-related activities! If a child attends all of the sessions for the month, he or she will receive a prize! May's theme: Summer Fun!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PMWho: Ages 6 to 10How: Call (309) 347-7111 ext. 3 for details.Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 21 - Pre-school storytime at Pekin Public Library
Stories, songs, activities, and a craft for children ages 3-5. This week's theme: Good Luck!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PMWho: For children ages 3-5.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 21 - Goodnight Moon Pajama Storytime – North Branch
Join us in wishing Margaret Wise Brown, author of Goodnight Moon, a happy birthday! We’ll share classic children’s stories and songs. Wear your pajamas and bring a blanket to snuggle in; you’ll be ready for bed when you go home!
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, May 22 - Toddler Time Tuesday at McClure Library
Stories and fingerplays for toddlers.
Where: The McClure Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 315 W. McClure Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 10:20 AMWho: Children ages 18 months-2 yearsHow: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, May 22 - Fun Time Storytime - Lincoln Branch
Fun stories and crafts for children ages 3-6.
Where: The Lincoln Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1312 W. Lincoln Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AMWho: Ages 3-6How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, May 22 - Pre-school storytime at Pekin Public Library
Stories, songs, activities, and a craft for children ages 3-5. This week's theme: Good Luck!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: For children ages 3-5.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, May 22 - Lakeview Lambs Storytime
Children and caregivers enjoy stories, fingerplays, and an easy craft. While supplies last.
Where: The Lakeview Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1137 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AMWho: Ages 2-3 years old.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Tuesday, May 22 - Kids Eat Free at Hy-Vee
Looking for an easy dinner option? Kids Eat Free at Hy-Vee every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m.!
Where:Hy-Vee Food Court, located at 4125 N. Sheridan Rd. in Peoria.When: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PMWho: FamiliesHow: See you there!Cost: Kids eat FREE!
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Wednesday, May 23 - Motor Mites
This open gym for ages 1-5 is a great way to let little ones with lots of energy enjoy the fun of playing freely with scooters, balls, hula hoops, tumbling equipment, and more. It’s a great way for children and parents to socialize. Parents must attend. Groups are Welcome at Motor Mites!
Where: The Franciscan Recreation Complex, located at 908 N. Sterling Ave. in West Peoria.When: 9:15 AM - 11:15 AM (Also Friday afternoons from 1-3 p.m.)Who: Ages 1-5 and a parentHow: No registration required.Cost: $2 per visit or $20 for a 12-visit pass
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Wednesday, May 23 - Fun Time Storytime – McClure Branch
Fun stories and songs for children ages 3-6.
Where: The McClure Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 315 W. McClure Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AMWho: Children ages 3-6.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
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Wednesday, May 23 - Toddler Time at Pekin Public Library
Enjoy stories, activities and interactive play with children of the same age. This week's theme: Sing Me a Song.
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: For toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parent or caregiver.How: No registration needed.Cost: FREE
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Wednesday, May 23 - Tiny Tots Storytime – Main Library
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your child and other parents of little ones as you sing, clap, listen, and explore together. Rhymes, stories, songs, and a social time where both children and parents can interact with each other will be part of this lively session.
Where: The Main Library, located at 107 N.E. Monroe in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Babies 12 – 23 months and their caregivers are welcome.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
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Wednesday, May 23 - Lego Time!
Come and explore the world of Legos! We will have monthly challenges or build one of your own creations.
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PMWho: Ages K-5How: Please register at the Youth Services desk.Cost: FREE
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May 26th through May 27th
Saturday, May 26 - Pine Cone Birdfeeders
Kids can make a simple birdfeeder that will bring enjoyment to them and our local birds.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PMWho: Kids ages 4 and upHow: Drop-ins welcome.Cost: Donations requested.
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Saturday, May 26 - Zoo Fest
Kick off summer right by joining the Zoo in their annual ZOOFEST celebration. Join us at 1 p.m. as we move the Chinese Alligator to her summer exhibit (weather permitting). We’ll have bouncy rides, games, animal encounters and more!
Where: Peoria Zoo, located at 2218 North Prospect Road, inside Glen Oak Park in Peoria.When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PMWho: All agesHow: See you there!Cost: FREE with regular admission.
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Sunday, May 27 - Pioneer Days - Plowing with Livestock
Activities at the homestead, barn, blacksmith shop and schoolhouse may include laundry, gardening, woodworking, blacksmithing, candle making and hands-on children's activities. This is a wonderful opportunity for scout and youth groups to learn about history. There will be presentations each month that highlight that month's theme.
Where: Sommer Park, located at 6329 Koerner Road in EdwardsWhen: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PMWho: All ages welcome!How: No registration required.Cost: $2/person (ages 4 and up).
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Want to know where kids eat free?
Check out Restaurants in Peoria for information about all the best places to eat in the Peoria-area, including a day-by-day list of where kids eat free (or very cheap)!
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