This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Frugal Family: Music, Large Art, Starfish, Puppet Theater and More!

Your local source for the scoop on family friendly resources and fun on a budget

Posted Mon, Jul 25, 2011 at 3:22 pm ET|Updated Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 1:17 am ET

This week's round-up includes a wide range of events and deals in and around town:

FUN and GAMES

What's the deal? Family Fun Game Night
When: Friday, July 29, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Where: Hooray for Books!, 1555 King Street, Alexandria
Cost: Free!
Details: Enjoy a sampling of games and other activities that teach children problem-solving strategies while having a barrel of fun. Ages 4 and up. Call at 703-548-4092 if you plan to attend.

What's the deal? Author reading and related craft: Janet Halfmann
When: Sunday, July 31, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Where: Hooray for Books!, 1555 King Street, Alexandria
Cost: Free!
Details: The author will read from Star of the Sea as well as some of her other books, including Good Night, Little Sea Otter. Children will have the opportunity to do a starfish craft.

MUSIC

What's the deal? Music at Twilight Concerts: Alexandria Harmonizers (Men’s Barbershop)
When: Thursday, July 28, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: Fort Ward Park Amphitheater, 4301 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria
Cost: Free!
Details: 703-746-5592 | Full Schedule

ARTS & CULTURE

What's the deal? Living LARGE! Kids Art Activity
When: Saturday, July 30, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Where: Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria (by the spiral staircase)
Cost: Free!
Details: Children are invited to create their own abstract paintings inspired by Tory Cowles' solo exhibition, Living LARGE! All art materials will be provided. Learn more.

What's the deal? 2nd Annual Youth Arts Festival
When: Saturday, July 30, 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: Jefferson Houston Elementary School, 1501 Cameron St., Alexandria
Cost: Free!
Details: This festival features live performances, puppet theater, fine art displays, interactive workshops, poetry readings and opportunities for youth to sell their art. Food and beverage sales will be available. Held rain or shine. Learn more.

What's the deal? Annual Chirilagua Festival
When: Sunday, July 31, 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Where: Four Mile Run Park, 3700 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria
Cost: Free!
Details: The festival features live entertainment, children’s activities, and traditional arts and crafts from South America, Bolivia, Peru, and Central America, and food and beverage sales. Sponsored by Tenants and Workers United. Learn more.

SALE

What's the deal? Sizzling deals on plants
When: Now!
Where: Eclectic Nature, 1503 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Cost: Prices vary. Save 30% - 50% off all plants
Details: Summer sale in the garden center! Colorful garden stakes and wall hangings, also an array of houseplants, including Aloe. Learn more.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here