Michelle WatersBeing cooped up during the winter months can be tough. It can be even tougher when you have small children and you need to find family friendly activities that can please every age in the house. Luckily, the Mid-Ohio Valley has some great options for the young, and the young at heart.
The Anderson Hancock Planetarium
Did you know that from now until mid-February, we can view 5 planets in our sky-all at once, and in a row: Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Mars and Jupiter? Just head outside right before dawn, for your best bet. Here’s a good guide to what’s on view in February.
Did you also know Marietta College’s campus has its own planetarium, where you can learn more about the “MOV Sky,” our solar system and what we can see each day and night?
Located on campus, at 215 5th St. (near the corner of Butler and 4th Streets), The Anderson Hancock Planetarium provides free monthly shows which are open to the public. The planetarium holds roughly 100 people, and seats are available for the shows on a first-come basis.
The next free show is this coming Thursday (February 11th) at 7 p.m. You will learn about solar energy and the February night sky
Upcoming Shows
March 24th, 7 p.m.: Cosmic Colors
April 21st, 7 p.m.: 7 Wonders-Explore the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
The Parkersburg Art Center Arty Parties
Every Saturday morning (from early January until, and including March 12th), from 10 a.m.- 12 p.m., the Parkersburg Art Center hosts free “Arty Parties” for you and your young children.
Head down to the lower level of the Parkersburg Art Center (725 Market St., Parkersburg) to help your children create make-and-take artwork (with a new theme each week), learn new art techniques and play with your children in the children’s play area.
The Arty Parties lead up to March 19th – the kickoff to Art in the Spring, with the annual Artorama. Operating from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., you and your child(ren) can sample sculpture, painting, printing, collage, wood-craft, dance and more, at no charge to you.