Event of the Week! Itty Bitty Magic City Turns One!

McWane Science Center will celebrate the first anniversary of its newest museum space, the Birmingham Children’s Museum Itty Bitty Magic City, this week. Festivities include museum-wide activities during the celebration named Itty Bitty Birthday on Saturday May 14 from 10am until 4pm in the museum. Itty Bitty Magic City is the largest capital project for McWane Science Center since its founding 17 years ago. This addition opened in May of 2015 and was made possible through a public/ private partnership between McWane Science Center and the city of Birmingham along with other private donors. Itty Bitty Magic City allows children ages newborn to kindergarten to learn in a fun and playful environment.

“We have been so happy to welcome visitors into Itty Bitty Magic City this past year. The positive response from our visitors and the community has exceeded our expectations,” said McWane Science Center CEO Amy Templeton. “We are so excited to celebrate this first birthday with the rest of our itty bitty family.”

Activities on Saturday will include: visits from local mascots including Vulcan, Babe Ruff, Blaze and Vocabby; birthday cake from Publix; balloon artists; science demonstrations; music on the Plaza; bouncy houses; itty bitty arts and crafts; food and drinks.

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 8th – May 15th

Our Birmingham Barons are back home this week with lots of fun things happening, including Star Wars Night this Friday!! It’s time for Do Dah Day and of course…. Itty Bitty Magic City at the McWane Science Center is turning 1!! Make sure you make it by there to help them celebrate! Have a GREAT week everyone!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday May 8th:

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

McWane Science Center
Free Admission for Moms!

Birmingham Zoo
All mothers will get in FREE to the Birmingham Zoo on May 8 with the purchase of a full-price child’s admission ticket!*

Oak Mountain State Fair – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
$8 admission – $5 Parking
12pm – Close (*could not verify actual time)

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Monday May 9th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Jackson Generals
YP Monday
7:05

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday May 10th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Jackson Generals
50-Cent Hot Dog Night, Social Media Night
7:05

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mary for a fun and energetic storytime for 24 months and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday May 11th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Jackson Generals
School Day, AAA
11:00am

Wiggleworm Wednesday – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music and fun!
10:30am

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday May 12th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Jackson Generals
Thirsty Thursday, Thursday Night Concert Series
7:05pm

Preschool Playtime – Homewood Public Library
We’ll provide the stations, and you provide the imagination for a fun morning of play with your child.  For ages three and under.  Daycare groups must call 205-332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
10am

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Friday May 13th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Jackson Generals
Mark Buehrle Bobblehead Giveaway, Star Wars Night, FIAT Friday, Friday Night Fireworks
7:05pm

Dynamic Education Adventures, Fizz Boom and Wow Show – Avondale Regional Library
This program is just fizzing and booming with fantastically fiery feats and radical reactions. Participants will be blown away by the explosive experiments and combustible chaos. Target Audience: children. This program is presented by Dynamic Education Adventures and made possible by a Hillcrest Foundation grant.
3:30pm

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Saturday May 14th:

Itty Bitty Birthday – McWane Science Center
Itty Bitty Magic City is turning one, and it’s time for a party! Join us for a celebration at McWane Science Center with special programs, live entertainment, outdoor activities, and even birthday cake!
Regular admission price
10am – 4pm

Do Dah Day – Caldwell Park
Do Dah Day grew out of an idea in 1979 and has raised almost $1.5 million since! The South’s craziest parade kicks off at 11:01 a.m. on the streets of Highland Avenue in Birmingham’s Southside. Then, spend the day in Caldwell and Rhodes Parks with friends, pets, arts & crafts, kid’s activities, and a lineup of great bands. Oh yes, we have plenty of food and beverages, and collectible Do Dah Day t-shirts. All proceeds benefit local animal charities.
Free admission for spectators and festival attendees.
11am – 7pm

Family Yoga in the Gardens – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Enjoy this unique opportunity for healthy fun with the family in the gardens of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. This energetic class will incorporate individual and partner yoga poses for strength and balance, plus breathing exercises to help foster calm and focus. Our garden inspired crafts will assist in cooling the mind and body.
Garden crafts (subject to change):
May 14 – herb sachet

For ages 3 and up
Instructor: Annie Damsky
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Saturday, May 14 | 9-10 a.m.
$15 drop-in (child+1 adult)
$5 for an additional family member (per class)

Kids Night Out – Shelby County Arts Council
Each Night Out is themed!
Children will Learn about artists and create their own Master Piece
Light Snack Provided
$25 for first child, $15 for each additional child in same family
Folk Art Beach Scene on Canvas (Artist – Paul Gauguin, landscape artist)  Instructor:  Trina Stogner
6pm – 9pm, ages 6-14

Alabama Wildlife Center Baby Bird Shower – Ala Wildlife Center
You are cordially invited to attend a Baby Bird Shower: Bring a gift (see Baby Bird Wish List), guided tour of baby bird nursery & aviaries, fun children’s activities, free cake and refreshments, purchase t-shirts, mugs & more! We’re expecting! Approximately 1,000 baby birds will arrive at the Alabama Wildlife Center this year. Come join in the fun and bring a gift! There are many ways to “Chirp In & Help Alabama’s Baby Birds”:

Go shopping — Purchase and donate needed items. You can even shop online from our Amazon wish list!

Volunteer — Volunteer Orientation/Intro to AWC usually held 1st Sunday each month, 2:00 – 4:00 pm see website for dates.

Become a member — Help preserve and protect Alabama’s precious natural heritage with your annual dues.

Give what you can — Express your love for wildlife by making a donation in any amount. Our monthly animal care expenses double during baby bird season. As funding increases, so does our ability to help more injured & orphaned birds. The Alabama Wildlife Center is a 501(c)(3), 509(a)(1) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax deductible.
Free after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park

Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
If your mom says to get ready to play at the beach, she means with a boat, or a Frisbee or a shovel. She is NOT talking about the piano. But Magnolia is a little girl with a big idea, determination and one very heavy upright piano she insists she needs to take with her. What’s the worst that can happen? Find out at Storytime. Activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday May 15th:

Cookie Craze Days at Full Moon BBQ
Full Moon BBQ will be offering a FREE Half Moon Cookie with any purchase at each of their locations! The award winning cookies are made from scratch daily with fresh, wholesome ingredients such as Southern pecans and decadent chocolate chips. Crisp from the oven, each cookie is hand-dipped in rich, melted milk chocolate. You’ve seen them on Alabama Tourism Department’s list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die,” and in Taste of the South’s feature as one of the top five best handmade cookies delivered to your door.
11am – 9pm

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

May Day! May Day!

Raise your hand if you currently feel like a personal ATM, overbooked Chauffeur, and a stretched out rubber band on the verge of snapping at the mere thought of adding just one. more. activity. to your already booked May Agenda.

The Month of May is hell. Between the wrapping up of extracurricular activities, open houses, end of year programs, teacher gifts, coaches gifts, sport banquets, Spirit Days, out of school for inclement weather make up days, recitals,  end of year conferences, and summer camp planning, you will absolutely swear that the entire School Board is out to take away your last few weeks of freedom before rewarding you with….. SUMMER!! Ahhh, Summer.  2 1/2 months of pure bliss. Bliss in the form of fighting, an over inflated food bill, and the never ending phrase “I’m booooooorrrrred.”

Oh.. and did I forget to mention Registration? The dreaded Kindergarten Registration, the Registration that brings out the avalanche of emotions that will leave you curled up in the fetal position crying like a baby, whether it’s your first, your last, or that kid somewhere in the middle, you Can’t Even grasp the fact that your baby is old enough for KINDERFREAKINGARTEN.

Somehow in the flurry of all of those end of the year activities, your other kid somehow became old enough for….. KINDERFREAKINGARTEN!

Is it any coincidence that May is the month that Mother’s across the world are celebrated? I think not.

Here are our tips for getting through the next few weeks:

1. Take a Deep Breath

2. Take a BIG sip of your beverage of choice

3. Repeat until bedtime. (or the last day of school, no judgement here.)

Good Luck, Moms! We’re all in this together!

 

Coyote Drive-In Grand Opening!

We’ve been patiently awaiting the opening of the newest Birmingham area drive-in and the time has come!! The Coyote Drive in Grand Opening is this Thursday, May 5th! And if that’s not exciting enough… you can see Captain America – Civil War one day before the national release!

A howling good time will be had with 4 movie screens, an indoor/outdoor restaurant, kids play area, live music on the weekends and more! Everything you need for a great family night out!
Conveniently located at the Outlet Shops of Grand River, so you can shop a little, then sit back, relax and enjoy a movie!
For more information on Movie Times, Movie Deals, to Purchase Tickets in advance or to sign up for their newsletter, visit their website!

 

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 1st – May 8th

The calendar is jam packed with special events and festivals happening this week! The Oak Mountain State Fair is still in town, and if Food Trucks are your thing, you’ll want to be at the Summit this Saturday. Sunday is Mother’s Day! We hope you have a great week and get a little “You” time!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday May 1st:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Salute to Armed Forces Sunday, Autism Friendly Day, Youth Baseball Clinic
3pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

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Monday May 2nd:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
7:05

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday May 3rd:

Oak Mountain State Fair – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
Buddy Night – Buy One, Get One Admission at the Gate – $8 (Free Parking)
5:30pm – Close (*could not verify actual time)

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mary for a fun and energetic storytime for 24 months and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday May 4th:

Oak Mountain State Fair – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
Free Parking
5:30pm – Close (*could not verify actual time)

Wiggleworm Wednesday – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music and fun!
10:30am

Night Out at the Stadium– Barnes and Noble Summit
A baseball stadium comes to life in this magical picture book written by Phil Bildner and illustrated by Tom Booth from the publishing imprint of legendary sports icon and role model Derek Jeter. Join us for Storytime featuring Night at the Stadium.
11am

Star Wars X-Wing Event – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we celebrate all things Star Wars and learn to play Star Wars X-Wing™. “May the 4th Be With You!”
7pm

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday May 5th:

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 (Free Parking)
5:30pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

Preschool Playtime – Homewood Public Library
We’ll provide the stations, and you provide the imagination for a fun morning of play with your child.  For ages three and under.  Daycare groups must call 205-332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
10am

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Friday May 6th:

Party on the Porch – Alabama Outdoors
Join us to kick off the season! Head to our Homewood location for fun, food, beer, music and giveaways benefiting Ruffner Mountain.
$10 for beer cup. Free otherwise.

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
5:30pm – Midnight

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Saturday May 7th:

We Love Homewood Day – Homewood Central Park
A variety of inflatables, rides and activities for all ages to enjoy. There is no admission charge to enter Central Park for the festival but to ride and play on the attractions one must purchase an all-day unlimited attractions wristband ($15) or individual tickets can be purchased to redeem at each attraction. Wristband/ticket sales will take place in two pavilions in Central Park. A DJ will provide interactive fun and music throughout the day
10am – 4pm

Preschool Partners Food Truck Round Up – Summit
PreSchool Partners will corral all your favorite local food trucks near Carmike Cinemas at The Summit, allowing you to sample from their menu while raising funds and awareness for PreSchool Partners. Purchase Tickets for $10 per adult ($15 at event) and $5 for children.
11am – 2pm

Trussville City Fest – The Mall in Trussville
Trussville City Fest is a fun, family event in historic downtown Trussville. In 2016 the festival will be 36 years old!

Admission is $5 per person, children 2 and under are FREE. Once inside the gate, all activities are FREE! This is a great price for a fun-filled, family-friendly day.

11am and finish with a fireworks show at 9:00 pm.

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – Midnight

Our World Our Library – Homewood Public Library
Join us to learn more about our world as we talk about and learn about Lailat al Miraj with stories and a special craft.
10:30am

Mother’s Day Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
In celebration of Mother’s Day, read about becoming an expert grandma sitter in How to Babysit a Grandma followed by Mom School. In Mom School a little girl imagines where her mom picked up all her amazing skills, like fixing a bike tire and baking cupcakes. Join us afterward to make a card for your mom or special caregiver.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday May 8th:

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

McWane Science Center
Free Admission for Moms!

Birmingham Zoo
All mothers will get in FREE to the Birmingham Zoo on May 8 with the purchase of a full-price child’s admission ticket!*

Oak Mountain State Fair – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
$8 admission – $5 Parking
12pm – Close (*could not verify actual time)

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Birmingham Area Summer Movies, Free and Discounted

Birmingham Area Free and Discounted Summer Movies

A Summer time favorite is back! Free and discounted movies around Birmingham! It’s a great inexpensive treat the whole family can enjoy and it’s a great way to beat the summer heat! We hope you enjoy this activity as much as we do!

The Deal:

Amstar Cinemas – Alabaster – Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s. Admission is $4.00 per person, price includes Movie, Kids Drink and Popcorn. All movies will start at 10am, box office opens at 9:30. Seating is limited, first come first served. All movies are G or PG.

Carmike Cinemas:
Tuesdays and Thursday at The Summit 16, Lee Branch and Patton Creek.The features will begin at 10 am with doors opening at 9:30 am. The price is $4, which includes admission, one 46 oz popcorn, and one 16 oz drink. All features are presented in their 2D format.

Flicks Among the Flowers – Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Formal Garden in front of the Conservatory. Free, Cash bar and movie themed food available for purchase. Don’t forget your blanket. Movies at 8pm, gates open at 6pm

Iron City – FREE Movies on Tuesday Evening in June and July. Admission is Free, concessions and adult beverages available for purchase. Doors open at 6PM, Movies at 7PM

The Edge – TBA

Free Friday Flicks – Veterans Park in Hoover. Movies begin at 6:30. Free but arrive early to visit local vendors and a Kid Zone!

Premiere Cinemas, Tannehill – Wednesdays, 10am. Admission is FREE

Regal Trussville – Summer Movie Express. Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10am. Admission is $1 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Will Rogers Institute. This Summer series is proudly sponsored by: Rape and Brooks Orthodontist.

The Alabama Theatre– Throwback Kids Club. Doors open at 9 a.m. for activities. The movie begins at 10 a.m.
$5 adults (over 12) / $3 kids. TBA

Movies at Avondale Park – Movies and Bands playing at the event, before each movie, from 6:45 until 7:45 bands will perform live music. Movies TBA

Helena Sundown Cinemas – Friday Nights, shows start at sundown, around 8pm. Helena Amphitheatre – Movies  TBA

The Movies:

Wednesday, May 18th

Flicks Among the Flowers – Back to the Future

Tuesday, May 31st

Amstar Alabaster – The Peanuts Movie

Wednesday, June 1st

Premiere Cinemas – Monsters v Aliens
Amstar Alabaster – The Peanuts Movie

Thursday, June 2nd

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip

Friday, June 3rd

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Inside Out

Tuesday, June 7th

Amstar Alabaster – Minions
Movies at Avondale Park – TBA
Regal Cinemas Trussville – The LEGO Movie and Max
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – The Croods

Wednesday, June 8th

Premiere Cinemas – Night at the Museum
Amstar Alabaster – Minions
Regal Cinemas Trussville – The LEGO Movie and Max

Thursday, June 9th

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – The Croods

Friday, June 10th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Minions

Tuesday, June 14th

Amstar Alabaster – Sponge Bob the Movie – Sponge Out of Water
Movies at Avondale Park – TBA
Regal Cinemas, Trussville  – Goosebumps and Iron Giant: Signature Edition
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Epic
Iron City – Finding Nemo

Wednesday, June 15th

Premiere Cinemas – Alvin and the Chipmunks
Flicks Among the Flowers – Dirty Dancing
Amstar Alabaster – Sponge Bob the Movie – Sponge Out of Water
Regal Cinemas, Trussville  – Goosebumps and Iron Giant: Signature Edition

Thursday, June 16th

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Epic

Friday, June 17th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Hotel Transylvania 2

Tuesday, June 21st

Amstar Alabaster – Space Jam
Movies at Avondale Park – TBA
Regal Cinemas Trussville – Pan and Smurfs 2
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Home
Iron City – Star Wars the Force Awakens

Wednesday, June 22nd

Premiere Cinemas – Madagascar 3
Amstar Alabaster – Space Jam
Regal Cinemas Trussville – Pan and Smurfs 2

Thursday, June 23rd

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Home

Friday, June 24th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Cinderella

Tuesday, June 28th

Amstar Alabaster – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Despicable Me 2 and Home
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Iron City – The LEGO Movie

Wednesday, June 29th

Premiere Cinemas – How to Train your Dragon
Amstar Alabaster – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Despicable Me 2 and Home

Thursday, June 30th

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – How to Train Your Dragon 2

Tuesday, July 5th

Amstar Alabaster – Alvin and the Chimpmunks, The Road Chip
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Minions and The Peanuts Movie
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Kung Fu Panda 2
Iron City – Monsters University

Wednesday, July 6th

Premiere Cinemas – Rio
Amstar Alabaster – Alvin and the Chimpmunks, The Road Chip
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Minions and The Peanuts Movie

Thursday, July 7th

Alabama Theatre, Throwback Kids Club – TBA
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Kung Fu Panda 2

Friday, July 8th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Shaun the Sheep

Tuesday, July 12th

Amstar Alabaster – Penguins of Madagascar
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip and Curious George
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Monsters v. Aliens
Iron City – Up

Wednesday, July 13th

Premiere Cinemas – Horton Hears a Who
Amstar Alabaster – Penguins of Madagascar
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip and Curious George

Thursday, July 14th

Alabama Theatre, Throwback Kids Club – TBA
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Monsters v. Aliens

Friday, July 15th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – The Peanuts Movie

Tuesday, July 19th

Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet Two
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – The Book of Life and Hotel Transylvania 2
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Rio 2
Iron City – Toy Story

Wednesday, July 20th

Premiere Cinemas – Home
Flicks Among the Flowers – Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet Two
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – The Book of Life and Hotel Transylvania 2

Thursday, July 21st

Alabama Theatre, Throwback Kids Club – TBA
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Rio 2

Friday, July 22nd

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Kung Fu Panda 3

Tuesday, July 26th

Amstar Alabaster – Hotel Transylvania 2
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 and Shaun the Sheep
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – The Peanuts Movie
Iron City – Zootopia

Wednesday, July 27th

Premiere Cinemas – Rio 2
Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet Two
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 and Shaun the Sheep

Thursday, July 28th

Alabama Theatre, Throwback Kids Club – TBA
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – The Peanuts Movie

Friday, July 29th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Star Wars the Force Awakens

Tuesday, August 2nd

Amstar Alabaster – Home
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – The Croods and Dr Seuss’ The Lorax
Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Penguins of Madagascar

Wednesday, August 3rd

Premiere Cinemas – The Peanuts Movie
Amstar Alabaster – Home
Regal Cinemas, Trussville – The Croods and Dr Seuss’ The Lorax

Thursday, August 4th

Carmike Summit, Patton Creek and Lee Branch – Penguins of Madagascar

 

Pills or Candy, Can You Tell the Difference?

We saw a graphic a while back on a visit to Children’s Hospital. It showed the amazing resemblance there is between pills and some of your child’s favorite candy.  It’s truly amazing how similar some medicines are to the candy that your kids know and crave.

Reports document a rising number of pharmaceutical poisonings of kids, usually when they mistakenly consume the medicines. Narcotic painkillers, sleeping pills and diabetes pills are among the drugs that pose the highest risks.

“Even small amounts of medicine can cause overdose-type problems” in children, Dr. Gittelman, of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital says. All medicines should be kept out of the reach of children.

This got us thinking, how would we fair in a little pop quiz? Would we, as adults, have as much trouble distinguishing the pills from candy? Believe it or not, we did. On levels 1 and 2 we scored a 90% when we got to level 3, it dropped to 50%

Test yourself and see how you do:

http://www.pillsvscandy.org/

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 24th – May 1st

Our Birmingham Barons are back later this week and the weather couldn’t be more perfect for a Ballgame! Make sure to check them out while they’re home! Lots of stroytimes and the first ever FIDO Fest happens this Saturday at the Summit, fun for family and furry friends. The Oak Mountain Spring Festival will kick off this Thursday, make sure to check times and admission fees, they change daily! Have a great week!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday April 24th:

American Girl, Just Like Me – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
As the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Isabelle and friends gather to hear her story and make our own colorful tutus. We’ll then dance our way through Japanese Gardens, one of the most beautiful at The Gardens during spring.

Ages 5 and up
Instructors: Robin & Emmeline Geurs
Sunday, April 24 | 2-4 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members

Instrument Petting Zoo at Springtime Symphony – Avondale Park
Before the Schaeffer Eye Center 2nd Springtime Symphony in Avondale Park, bring your children to come “meet” the instruments! Professional musicians will be on hand to allow children to touch, play and ask questions. A rare opportunity!
2pm – 3pm

2nd Springtime Symphony in the Park – Avondale Park
Schaeffer Eye Center and the Forest Park South Avondale Business Association presents the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performing a free, open to the public concert in the amphitheater.

The program will be family friendly, and will feature light classical music as well as music from well-known musicals and films. Examples might be Seventy Six Trombones from the Music Man or Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky.

Before the concert, please bring your children to experience the Symphony Education Department’s “petting zoo” of instruments.

Seating in the amphitheater opens at 1:30. Concert begins at 3:00pm.

A ticketed reception before the performance will benefit Red mountain School and Avondale Elementary School. Local restaurants are providing light refreshments in the reception area. Tickets for the reception are $5 at the door.

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Monday April 25th:

Tot Time with Ms Eve, Hoppy to be a Frog – Avondale Library
This last storytime before summer reading begins is sure to keep you hopping with excitement! Tot Time is geared for 2- to 4-year-olds with an individual caregiver; no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday April 26th:

Family Night with Author Alan Katz – Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
Meet and find out why he is called a “silly, dilly man!” He is the author of some of the funniest children’s books you will ever read, so the night should be loads of fun. There will be an autograph session following the show. Please register for the meal by calling 205-978-0158. Everyone welcome!
Dinner at 6pm – Show at 6:30

It’s not Easy Being Green Storytime – Avondale Regional Library
Hop on over to our pad and celebrate National Frog Month. It’s a night of toad-lly awesome stories and ribbiting fun you won’t soon frog-get. 24-hour advance registration required.
6:30pm

Evenings at Emmet O’ Neal Library
Bring the family in PJs and enjoy a different activity each week. PJ Storytime: special sleepytime stories and a bedtime snack. Movie & Popcorn: 30-minute family-friendly movies and movie popcorn. Dance Party: music and movement with fun props. Craft: supplies provided. Call 879-0497 to find out what this week’s program will be. All ages. No registration required
6pm

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mary for a fun and energetic storytime for 24 months and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

Baby Tales – North Shelby Library
A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Stories and music provide interaction for the babies and time for caregivers to talk and share with each other.  Ages: Birth to 18 months.  Registration Required.  Registration will begin one week prior to program date.
10am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday April 27th:

Storytime – Springville Road Library
Stories, songs, and crafts! All ages are welcome to our weekly storytime.
10am

Wiggleworm Wednesday – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music and fun!
10:30am

Where’s the Party Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
A heartwarming story with adorable art, this irresistibly charming picture book debut invites readers to meet Georgie and friends—and find the answer to the most important question of the day: Where’s the Party? Join us to find out at Storytime featuring Where’s the Party? Activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday April 28th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Thirsty Thursday, Mardi Gras in April, Thursday Night Concert Series
7:05

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
Advanced Tickets – $5.00 good until April 28th on Ticketmaster.
$8 (Free Parking)
5:30pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

Storyday with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime for ages three and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

American Girl Girls Just Like Us – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Japanese Garden Ballet with Isabelle
As the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Isabelle and friends gather to hear her story and make our own colorful tutus. We’ll then dance our way through Japanese Gardens, one of the most beautiful at The Gardens during spring.

Ages 5 and up
Instructors: Robin & Emmeline Geurs
Thursday, April 28 | 3:30-5 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members

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Friday April 29th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Friday Night Fireworks, Superheroes Night, Bobby Allison Appearance, Tornado Safety Awareness Night, FIAT Friday
7:05pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
5:30pm – Midnight

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Saturday April 30th:

Fido Fest – The Summit
We’ve partnered with local friends and retailers to create an afternoon that celebrates our four-legged friends and benefits Hand & Paw as well as The Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Bring the whole family to The Summit on Saturday, April 30th to enjoy a pet photo booth, kids’ activities, food trucks, local vendors and live entertainment! Fido Fest is a FREE event. All animal lovers and four legged friends are welcome!!
11am – 3pm

Weatherfest – McWane Science Center
Join the FOX6 StormWarn team and some special guests on the plaza to learn about severe weather safety! Weather fans will have the chance to see vehicles and tools used by atmospheric scientists to detect and study severe weather.
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Kids Batting Helmet Giveaway
6:30pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – Midnight

Grubdown – Springville Road Library
Drop by and we’ll introduce you to our scaly, crawly, furry, and friendly library pets. You can pet them and learn about how we feed, groom, and care for them.
4pm

Night at the Staduim Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
A baseball stadium comes to life in this magical picture book written by Phil Bildner and illustrated by Tom Booth from the publishing imprint of legendary sports icon and role model Derek Jeter. Join us for Storytime featuring Night at the Stadium.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday May 1st:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Salute to Armed Forces Sunday, Autism Friendly Day, Youth Baseball Clinic
3pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Summer Camp Spotlight! Birmingham Zoo

Enjoy a fun Summer ZooFari Camp at the Birmingham Zoo!

Summer ZooFari Camp is available for 4K through 8th grade students. Space is limited, and camps fill up quickly. Please register in advance to guarantee your child a spot.

While attending Summer ZooFari Camp, campers will experience:

  • Live animal demonstrations
  • Train and/or carousel ride*
  • Crafts and activities
  • Guided tours
  • Snacks
  • Animal Biofacts

 *Train and carousel rides are dependent on weather and the availability of the attractions.

The Birmingham Zoo will be offering 3 new camps this summer:

Zoo Olympics Camp
Grades 4K-5th
(Basic Camp)
Come meet some amazing animal athletes and learn about the special talents that make them awesome. You will be introduced to animals that are long jumpers, speed racers, and world-class gymnasts. You may also earn your own gold medal during a bit of friendly competition

Jurassic Zoo Camp
Grades 4K-5th
(Specialty Camp)
We’re taking it WAY BACK to the Jurassic period! Put on your palaeontologist hat and discover fossils, learn about dinosaurs and how they lived, what they ate, and meet some of their modern-day relatives up close! This camp is perfect for your little dinosaur fanatic.

Eco Art Camp
Grades 5K-5th
(Specialty Camp)
Let’s create exciting art from recycled materials and nature! Campers will discover how to turn ordinary items into their own masterpieces while learning about conservation and saving our planet. Campers will also enjoy animal demonstrations, zoo keeper talks, rides and much more!

Of course their popular camps will be back this year, Jr Zoo Keeper, Zoo Keeper and Career Camp.

For more information and a planning on all of the Camps offered by the Birmingham Zoo, to register or get pricing details;

Click Here.

Tis’ The Season.. For Local Farmer’s Markets!

We all love some fresh fruits and veggies, and Birmingham Area Farmer’s markets are heating up. If you’re looking for a market to enjoy this season, look no further! We’ve got a list of some of the most popular market in town.. Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a place to pick your own, there are lots of options close to Birmingham that allow you to get in on the action!

Birmingham Area Farmer’s Markets

Alabama Farmer’s Market is open seven days a week, year ’round,  with the majority of vendors open from 6am-5pm. Located at 344 Finley Avenue, the Alabama Farmers Market has been in its current location since 1956-making it the longest running farmers market in the Birmingham area. See their vendor list for further details on which growers you can find there each week.

Pepper Place Market is open Saturdays from 7am-12 noon from mid April through early December each year. Located at 2829 2nd Avenue South in Birmingham, Pepper Place offers visitors a great assortment of locally grown and prepared goods. Peak summer months usually bring in an average of 30 farmers or more, and a great selection of additional vendors selling other foods, and arts and crafts. Pepper Place also features live music and will often host chef demonstrations throughout the summer months as well. For updates on weekly events make sure to sign up for their newsletter!

Homewood Farmer’s Market takes place each Saturday June 18th through August 20th, from 8am – 12:30pm at Homewood Central Park.  Hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce and Urban Cookhouse restaurant, the Homewood Farmer’s Market features more than 15 local farmers and vendors. For further information and a complete list of vendors, visit Downtown Homewood Farmer’s Market

Gardendale Farmer’s Market – The season will start on May 19th through September 29th, every Thursday from 9am – 2pm, at the Gardendale Civic Center. Weather permitting, there will be children’s activities every week. Starting on June 2nd, the children’s activities will begin with the Petting Zoo, inflatable, and story reading.

Trussville Farmer’s Market –  Located on the mall in Downtown Trussville each Tuesday April 12th – June 7th from 1pm – 5pm and Beside Holy Cross Episcopal Church (90 Parkway Drive) in downtown Trussville on Saturdays, April 30th – June 11th, 8am – Noon.

Pinson Fresh Farmer’s Market – Located at the Rock School and open every Friday from 2pm – 6pm. 12-15 vendors selling fruits and veggies, even some kettle corn! Look for local honey, homemade salsa and canned goods.

UAB Farmer’s Market – UAB Medicine is providing the UAB Farmer’s to the staff and visitors of UAB. A partner with the Farmer’s Market Authority of the State of Alabama, part of the Department of Agriculture, they bring some of the best farmers in Alabama to the UAB Market. The Market will be held every Friday, June 3 – August 26 from 11am – 2pm and is open to both staff and visitors of UAB. The market is located at the North Pavilion Entrance.

West Homewood Farmer’s Market Tuesdays from 5pm – 8pm in June July and August. If you’re ready for a slice of pie and Americana, the West Homewood Farmer’s Market (WHFM) is just the place to be during the warm summer evenings.

You’ll find Alabama’s favorite food trucks (Cantina, SAWs BBQ, Heaveny Donuts, Old Town Pizza (who has a wood-burning stove in their food truck!!) parked at the market along with 10+ local farms represented and all kinds of arts & crafts vendors. If it’s great music and great food you’re looking for… look no more!

The Summit Market will run on Thursdays from 3pm-7pm beginning June 2nd. Located in the parking area in front of Saks, the Summit Market will host local farmers, plus fun kids activities and crafts.

East Lake Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays from 8am-12noon, beginning in early May  through October 8th. Located at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and 78th Street in the East Lake neighborhood (near Ruffner Mountain)., the East Lake Farmer’s Market features locally grown fruits and veggies, local musicians and artists, cooking demonstrations and fun activities for the whole family. Health screenings and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) coupons are also offered if you have signed up prior to the market season. Go here for more information about SFMNP.

Do you have a favorite market? Which one do you look forward to trying out this season?