Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, Tupper Lake for Kids: 4 FREE events

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By Diane Chase

Most of the time we find there is too much we want to do on the weekend. I am not referring to our garden, the deer, moles and now resident mutant woodchuck. I have heard that groundhogs like dandelions. If so, they have moved to the right yard. If only it would stick to its side of the garden. At some point we need to take a break from the battle for our yard and take our minds off all the housework. The issue for us is how can we get to all the activities we want to do.

On May 21st there are four free events that come to mind for people with families. Now is the time to trade in those bicycle helmets and participate in the annual Saranac Lake Bicycle Rodeo at the SL Civic Center from 10:00 a.m. – noon. At 11:00 a.m. Pendragon Theatre is hosting the Colgate Children Theatre Workshop with a FREE performance of “They Say Her Name Is Alice,” based on Alice in Wonderland. It’s just general seating so get there a bit early.

Northern Lights School will host their annual May Faire at Roger Quinn Field in Raybrook. This event (10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) is full of games, crafts, natural food cafe and true celebration of spring with dancing around the May Pole. My children have always looked forward to the puppet show.

The Wild Center and Adirondack Medical Center are hosting a “Spring Outside HealthFest.” There is no admission for a full day of music, storytelling, outdoor inflatable obstacle course, face painting and animal encounters. AMC will have free health screenings and a chance to tour the mobile dental clinic.  

Of course there are plenty of other activities happening like museums, rambles and walks and even an opportunity for children to “Touch a Truck” at the North Elba Show Grounds for a small fee. 

You could always come work in our garden and look for creative ways to live with marauding animals intent on eating our plants. (We appreciate but are not pursuing the 22-gauge suggestion already received.)

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