Mostly Free and Fun Things to do With Kids in CT This Weekend, November 17-18: Parades, Songs, Holiday Fairs and Giving Thanks

November is a wonderful time to teach your children about gratitude, especially following Hurricane Sandy when so many people lost lives, homes, and hope.

You and your kids can find volunteer opportunities to help those less fortunate, including the Bridgeport Rescue Mission providing food and coats to families in need. For this event and others, check out our post on Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in and around New Haven, and Thanksgiving Activities in Fairfield County. 

I am a horrible cook and I don't eat meat, so the thought of making a Thanksgiving turkey is really overwhelming. Want a stress-free holiday? Take a look at our Family-friendly Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day in Fairfield County. And other than just having a big meal, we offer suggestions of other things To Do on Thanksgiving Day in Fairfield County as well as Thanksgiving Historic Meals, Races, Crafts and Stories in Hartford County.

If you don't feel like venturing into New York for the Macy's Parade, you might be interested in Sunday's UBS Parade Spectacular in Stamford. Bands, dancing and fabulous giant balloons from your favorite characters including Kermit, Clifford, Big Bird and more. On Saturday from 3-6pm you can watch the balloons come to life at the Giant Balloon Inflation Party.

Another fun, educational event is the Holiday Tea and Delights From Around the World at the Windham Textile and History Museum in Willimantic. Enjoy high tea, desserts and other dishes from over 26 countries, honoring the diverse population who worked in Eastern CT's textile mills.  If you have never been to high tea, it is a fun event to get your kids dressed up for a nice afternoon out. 

Angevine Farm in Warren is having their 13th Annual Holiday Open House. Decorate a gingerbread man, create an ornament, go for a hike and tag your Christmas tree!

The entire family can burn off some pumpkin pie at the Hot Coco 5K and Kids Run in Cheshire on Saturday. The event features great music and fun with proceeds helping those with developmental disabilities live productive and fulfilling lives in the community.

For families with children ages 5-10 on the austism spectrum, you'll enjoy Exploring Artism, a free event at the Yale Center for British Art in New Haven. Learn about and discuss artwork in the galleries, and do your own art project. 

If you have LEGO enthusiasts in your house, head down to Bridgeport's Blocks of Love supporting children and families affected by cancer. Build a masterpiece and enjoy live music at Webster Bank Arena.

Rock out with children's musician and PBS co-host Steve Songs at the CPTV's 50th Anniversary event in Hartford. There will be two special performances on Sunday with dancing and singalongs.

At the Children's Museum in West Hartford they have an exhibit on "King Tut, The Boy King." Create a free Thanksgiving craft on Saturday at the Gunn Memorial Library in Washington.

Beat the Black Friday rush with some early shopping. Holiday Boutique at Holy Spirit Church in Newington, the Sons of Italy Holiday Craft Fair in Torrington and the Holiday Fair at the North Congregational Church in Woodbury allows you to support local artists while you find unique gifts. Handmade items will also be on display at the The Mystic Arts Center's Winter Art Gala. Shop, enjoy food, and free gift wrapping.  

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest in order to get updates on events, current contests and free giveaways. 

Visit our event calendar for more fun activities for your family. 

Have a wonderful weekend!