Freebies for the Family to Finish November

Ready for some more free activities to keep your children happy? With a week off of school, children will be seeking activities to keep them occupied.           

Lakeshore Learning in Walnut Creek has two great Saturday crafts to finish our November. Head there from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 17 and your artist will make a turkey collage. On Nov. 24, your child can make a festive door hanger for his or her room.           

Looking for an evening of fun? Golden Apple Learning Store in Pleasanton hosts family game night every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. One lucky player will even win a door prize each week. Golden Apple is a hands-on teacher and learning store located at 4807 Hopyard Road. My kids love to go there and just play with all of their demo products out on display!            

Make it a family event as you catch some festive holiday lightings throughout the Tri-Valley. On Friday, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m., festivities begin in downtown Danville at the annual big oak tree lighting.

There will be music, crafts, and of course the magic of lights! Blackhawk Shopping Center hosts a live band, magical snow, and tree lighting on Saturday, Nov. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Nov. 29 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek hosts their tree lighting and holiday parade.           

The Danville Library has a free event for families on Nov. 28 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Audience members can watch and learn about Persian dance and the culture of Iran.           

Consider some off the wall ideas like heading to Barnes and Noble in Dublin or Walnut Creek and reading books or playing with their free train table. Head to the mall and just browse, yes browse!

The Lego Store is always a hit in our house. Consider going to Toys R Us and letting your child use the train table, browse for ideas to include on the annual holiday wish list — just make it clear you are not spending any money! Think about heading to your local pet store to see the animals, like hamsters, guinea pigs, fish, and birds.            

Although not completely free, the Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society hosts their annual open house Nov. 16 to 18 and November 23 to 25. Adults are $3 and children under 6 are free.

We go each and every year to this full sized model train layout that has to be seen to be believed. Every half hour, there is even a thunderstorm in the building set to music. Train enthusiasts will delight, both young and young at heart. Plus, Larkey Park is right on site, so you can make a day of it by packing a picnic lunch! Visit here to see the hours of operation each day.

There are so many family activities just waiting for those you love. Whether you choose holiday lights, a craft, or some dancing, it won't cost you a penny!