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Summer Reading Programs in Birmingham

Posted on by Angie

One thing to keep those little brains engaged during the summer is to get involved in the Summer Reading Program at your local Library – Many will start registration this week and will be hosting some really cool kickoff parties and prizes for those completing their books – Here are some of the programs going on around Birmingham. If you have one you would like to have added, just let us know!

Happy Reading!

Homewood Public Library– The Dream Big Summer Reading Begins June 1 and ends July 24.  Summer readers who register on the website and check out books from the Children’s Department, could be the winner of a new bike!

Register online NOW.

Readers who register online by May 30 will be entered into a drawing for free passes to the Tennessee Aquarium!

Emmet O Neal Library – This year’s theme is Dream Big Kick-Off: Sunday, May 20th Fun Run 2:30 p.m. Carnival 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

North Shelby Library– The Summer Reading Program will run from June 1st to July 25th. Early Registration begins May 21st and ends May 31st. Children will receive a special prize for signing up during this time (no phone registration, please) Regular Registration begins June 1st and ends July 11th (no phone registration, please)

Kick Off Party – Saturday, June 2nd 10am-1pm

Inflatables, Refreshments, Games, Face Painting and MORE!!!
All Ages Welcome. No Registration Required.

Vestavia Hills, Library in the Forest – Dream Big in the Forest! Registration going on now.

Hoover Public Library – Read for fun, prizes, and a free book!  For babies through rising 5th graders.   May 21 – July 13, 2012

Pelham Public Library – June 5th 1:00pm in the Police Station Courtroom. Summer Reading Kick-off Concert Featuring Mark Seymour of “BE-AT Your Best”
By registering in the Summer Program children can earn prizes by reading books.  Registration will begin May 29th and will continue through July.  Registration will resume at 2:00pm after the concert.

East Lake Public Library– Don’t want your kids to sit around doing nothing all? Let them go on adventures all throughout the summer. Moms, dads, and kids, come signup for our summer reading library program.Come celebrate and signup for the first day of the summer reading program! June 1, 2012– 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Trussville Public Library– Summer Reading 2012 is coming to the Trussville Public Library. Don’t forget to bring your imagination as you get ready to Dream Big – READ! Sign up begins for babies through children entering 5th grade on Wednesday, June 6th, but don’t worry if you can’t come to the libary that day. We will continue signing up throughout the summer.

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 20th – May 27th

Posted on by Angie

Last week of school for many, which means you’re going to need this weekly calendar more than ever!!

Some fun things happening around the city this week including the big kick off of the new Dora and Diego Exhibit at the McWane Science Center! Below you will find information on how to RSVP for the Member Preview party coming up this Thursday.

The Birmingham Zoo will have lots of fun going on over the Memorial Day weekend, so take advantage of your long weekend and get out there to see the new Giraffe Exhibit.

Have a great week!

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

Sunday May 20th:

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Design a teacup just in time for Mother’s Day!

Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1:00pm

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Monday May 21st:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Tuesday May 22nd:

Artbreak: Take an Artventure – Birmingham Museum of Art
Become a kid again, unleash your creativity, and get ready for an adventure like none you’ve experienced before. Join Curator of Education Samantha Kelly on an interactive tour of the newly opened Bart’s ArtVenture! family galleries. Step into a Museum masterpiece, decorate a ceramic vessel, make your own abstract expressionist painting, and have tons of fun on your lunch break.
Noon

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Wednesday May 23rd:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for Storytime as we read Bugs Galore. We will find out all about the different types of bugs. We will make something fun and have a treat from the Cafe.
11am

Family Story Time with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
Storyteller Extraordinaire – Come join Mr Mac and his musical storytime complete with puppets! All Ages, no registration required.
10:45am

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Thursday May 24th:

Dora and Diego Member Preview Party – McWane Science Center
Ready? ¡Vámonos! Be the first to visit the Dora and Diego: Let’s Explore exhibit before it opens to the public!  Join us for snacks, crafts and an exciting evening full of exploration! Please RSVP by Monday, May 21 by calling (205) 714-8319 or emailing membership@mcwane.org.
6pm – 8pm

Dream Big Pajama Party – Hoover Public Library
Kick off your shoes and put on your favorites PJs for funny bedtime stories, milk and cookies, a crazy slipper parade and more in The Library Theatre.
6:30pm

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Friday May 25th:

Memorial Day Activities at the Birmingham Zoo
Come out and join in all the fun the Zoo has to offer over this long holiday weekend. Feed the giraffes, take a camel ride, check out a Wildlife Show, visit Granny’s Butterfly Garden and much more! Be sure to enjoy the Lion Cubs’ 1st Birthday Party on May 26th from 11am to 1pm.

In honor of this holiday, all active and retired military and their dependents get free admission to the Zoo on May 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th with valid military identification.

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
The Alabama Phoenix Festival is a celebration that spans the realms of creativity and imagination and shows how the impossible is possible for us all! The Festival invites all ages from 1 to 909 years of age to come together and celebrate The Arts, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming and all interests from every quarter of the universe! There is something for everyone! The fantasies and dreams of today lead to the realities of tomorrow and Alabama Phoenix Festival is here to support that in our community!
We are starting the 2012 Alabama Phoenix Festival at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 25 with activities around the clock until closing at 5:00 pm Sunday, May 27. Primary programming will be set in 1 hour, 15 minute long blocks with 15 minute breaks between each block.

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Saturday May 26th:

Dora and Diego, Let’s Explore Exhibit – McWane Science Center
Get ready for adventure with Dora and Diego at McWane Science Center in the new exhibit Dora & Diego—Let’s Explore! The exhibit features beloved characters Dora and Diego from Nickelodeon’s hit preschool series Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!, along with their friends Boots, Map, Backpack, Isa, Tico, and of course Swiper, now in their own exhibit for children to explore as they learn and play along.

This new, interactive traveling exhibit, was created by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in partnership with Nickelodeon, and presented by the WellPoint Foundation.

Memorial Day Activities at the Birmingham Zoo
Come out and join in all the fun the Zoo has to offer over this long holiday weekend. Feed the giraffes, take a camel ride, check out a Wildlife Show, visit Granny’s Butterfly Garden and much more! Be sure to enjoy the Lion Cubs’ 1st Birthday Party on May 26th from 11am to 1pm.

In honor of this holiday, all active and retired military and their dependents get free admission to the Zoo on May 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th with valid military identification.

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
The Alabama Phoenix Festival is a celebration that spans the realms of creativity and imagination and shows how the impossible is possible for us all! The Festival invites all ages from 1 to 909 years of age to come together and celebrate The Arts, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming and all interests from every quarter of the universe! There is something for everyone! The fantasies and dreams of today lead to the realities of tomorrow and Alabama Phoenix Festival is here to support that in our community!
We are starting the 2012 Alabama Phoenix Festival at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 25 with activities around the clock until closing at 5:00 pm Sunday, May 27. Primary programming will be set in 1 hour, 15 minute long blocks with 15 minute breaks between each block.

This was Made from a Rock? Oak Mountain
You won’t believe some of the things that are made from rocks. Alabama has some of the oldest and coolest rocks around. Come join us to learn about them, where they can be found, and what can be found on them. Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side). Free after admission to Oak Mountain State Park.

Saturday Market – Pepper Place
Re-open again for the season! Pepper Place Saturday Market brings the best local growers, food producers and artisans to you each Saturday morning. Rain or shine!
7am – Noon

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for Storytime as we read Me and My Mom in celebration of Mother’s Day. Find out about all of the fun things that the little bear does with her mom. There will be something fun to make and we will have a treat from the Cafe.
11am

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Sunday May 27th:

Memorial Day Activities at the Birmingham Zoo
Come out and join in all the fun the Zoo has to offer over this long holiday weekend. Feed the giraffes, take a camel ride, check out a Wildlife Show, visit Granny’s Butterfly Garden and much more!

In honor of this holiday, all active and retired military and their dependents get free admission to the Zoo on May 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th with valid military identification.

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
The Alabama Phoenix Festival is a celebration that spans the realms of creativity and imagination and shows how the impossible is possible for us all! The Festival invites all ages from 1 to 909 years of age to come together and celebrate The Arts, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming and all interests from every quarter of the universe! There is something for everyone! The fantasies and dreams of today lead to the realities of tomorrow and Alabama Phoenix Festival is here to support that in our community!
We are starting the 2012 Alabama Phoenix Festival at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 25 with activities around the clock until closing at 5:00 pm Sunday, May 27. Primary programming will be set in 1 hour, 15 minute long blocks with 15 minute breaks between each block.

Bats of Alabama – Oak Mountain
Are bats scary? Do bats hurt people? Come learn the truth about some very unique mammals. Bats are interesting, important creatures and they are often misunderstood. Did you know the Little Brown Bat, one of the most common North American bat species, can catch and eat as many as 1,200 mosquitoes in one hour? Meet at 7p.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).
Free after admission to Oak Mountain State Park.

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Design a teacup just in time for Mother’s Day!

Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1:00pm

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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: Born to Be Wild, & Flying Monsters.

The Tornadoes of April 27th – Looking Back — Moving Forward, a new exhibit at McWane Science Center, reflects on the experiences of the April 27th, 2011 storms. The exhibit shares personal stories from those who experienced the devastation of the storms firsthand, while emphasizing the importance of tornado preparedness and explaining the science behind tornadoes.

Photos and stories from The Birmingham News help tell the story of the storms and the affect they had on survivors, volunteers, and the community as a whole. Students from Daniel Payne Middle School also help tell the story of their school and community through photos and artifacts from the storm for the exhibit. UAB students worked with the children from Daniel Payne Middle School to create short documentaries that can be seen in the exhibit as well.

In addition to sharing the personal stories from that day, the goal of this exhibit is to inform the community about how to prepare for extreme weather conditions, explaining the science of tornadoes and stressing awareness.

With vivid displays, the exhibit allows visitors the opportunity to learn about the scientific side of tornadoes. Graphics within the exhibit illustrate tornado formation and anatomy, educating visitors on how such extreme weather conditions develop. Additionally, the exhibit displays statistics and disputes common myths concerning the destructive storms.

Guests can watch live video from the storms that rolled across our state on April 27th, 2011, including the
weather forecasts from that day and actual images of the tornado as it made its way through our area provided by FOX6 WBRC. The exhibit is located in the City Gallery on Level 2 of the museum this summer.

Be Ready Alabama Exhibit Presented by:
The Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
www.readyalabama.org

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

RHINO ENCOUNTER – Embark on an African adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary animals, the Southern White Rhino. Watch from only feet away as our zookeepers engage in hands-on interaction with the animals inside their African-themed exhibit. Don’t miss this exciting encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet!
Weekdays: 3pm – 3:30pm
Weekends: 11:30am – Noon & 3pm – 3:30 pm

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am  & 2pm – 3pm

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.

Bart's Artventure Grand Opening: Birmingham Museum of Art

Posted on by Angie

The Birmingham Museum of Art will open the doors to Bart’s ArtVenture, its new interactive gallery designed specifically for children and families on May 19. The colorful, modern space combines high tech art-making tools with hands-on creation stations to give kids and families the opportunity to begin and develop their art education in a creative, communal environment. With its opening, Bart’s ArtVenture becomes one of only a handful of art museums across the nation with a gallery dedicated to kids and families.

“Bart’s ArtVenture is going to transform our Museum experience for visitors with children,” said Gail Andrews, the R. Hugh Director of the Museum.  “This kind of space not only gives families the freedom to create and share art in a safe and fun environment, it also fills a significant void in our community that has been created where budget cuts have eroded many arts programs in our schools. Bart’s ArtVenture offers children the chance to discover art, some for the very first time,” she said.

Somerset, a Huntsville-based design group, worked closely with the Museum’s education department to devise an engaging, modular space divided into two galleries– one children for ages 1-5 and the other for children ages 6-12. Both galleries feature large “art bars” where children can create their own art.

“Our goal with Bart’s ArtVenture is to relate its design to our collection while implementing activities that would encourage group participation and inspire conversation between kids and families,” said Curator of Education, Samantha Kelly. “We want the Museum experience to be fun, easy and accessible for families with children of all ages and see this space as a place where art comes alive, one which serves as a bridge for families to further explore our Museum together.”

Each station surrounding the art bars in the gallery purposefully reflects some aspect of the Museum’s diverse permanent collection. The colorful entrance wall to the space includes art derived from Roy Lichtenstein’s sculpture Brushstroke V.  A green screen lets visitors to virtually step into one of the Museum’s works–such as Albert Bierstadt’s iconic painting Looking Down Yosemite Valley, California–and then email the digital image to themselves. Texture blocks designed for younger visitors are based on objects from the collection, and children can decorate masks nearly identical to those preserved on display in the African, Native American and Pre-Columbian galleries. Even the large customizable image of BMA family mascot Bart The Art Bat, is itself derived from a Pre-Columbian gold artifact on display at the Museum.

The hallway linking the two galleries “Bart’s Art Cave” will be a showcase for local artists, offering various “sensory-based” works during the course of a year. The Museum worked with Bare Hands, Inc. to identify artists for the space that bring the right level of stimulation, innovation, and children-centered art and ideas. The first on display is Heather Spencer Holmes’ ethereal installation of floating jellyfish called Smack.
“Opportunities for young visitors to create their own art, be inspired by new artists, and to be engaged with the masterpieces at the Museum means that Bart’s ArtVenture offers a kid-friendly environment like no other,” said Kelly.  “We want it to provoke conversation about how art, creativity, exploration, and discovery can be a part of your life after the Museum visit.”

Bart’s ArtVenture Grand Opening Celebration Schedule

May 19, 2012 // 11:00am – 3:00pm
FREE and open to all ages

Join Bart the Art Bat for the Grand Opening of Bart’s ArtVenture, the Museum’s cool, new hands-on gallery for kids of all ages!  Be among the very first to explore the cutting –edge technology and art-making opportunities. Step into one of the Museum’s masterpieces via green screen technology. Make an abstract painting with your body on a giant digital canvas. Create your own art and feast on Bart’s birthday cupcakes as we follow Bart on a new Museum ArtVenture! Visit artsbma.org for more information.

10:00-11:00 // Member’s Preview

Become a member today to be the first to see the new gallery!

11:00 // Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Gallery Officially Opens to the Public

11:00-3:00 // Free Family Activities
Art Activities
Bart’s Cupcakes
Family Yoga
Stories in the Galleries
Musical Entertainment
Snacks
Scavenger Hunts

Tis' the Season… For Local Farmer's Markets

Posted on by Angie

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 Saturday, look no further! Our friends over at My Green Birmingham have compiled and shared this great list of local markets and they’re letting us share it with you!

2012 Birmingham Area Farmer’s Markets:

Alabama Farmers Market is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day,  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, be sure to check the Pepper Place calendar.

Valleydale Famer’s Market is open on Saturdays starting in mid May and runs through September 1st. This market features local growers and vendors including Burnette Farms with a huge selection of peaches, peppers, beans and more, Beasley Mountain, who sells an incredible selection of fresh berries, and Humble Hearts Farm, makers of an assortment of goat cheeses. The Valleydale Farmer’s Market also hosts additional vendors selling arts and crafts and locally prepared food. Located at at 4601 Valleydale Road. Valleydale Farmer’s Market is also a Freshfully Veggie Box pick up location.

Downtown Homewood Farmer’s Market takes place each Saturday through August 24th, from 8am – 12:30pm at Homewood’s SoHo square. Hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce and Urban Cookhouse restaurant, the Homewood Farmer’s Market features more than 15 local farmers and vendors, including Owl’s Hollow Hydroponic Farm, Finer Grind Coffee, and the Dreamcakes food truck-for an extra special treat! For further information and a complete list of vendors, visit Downtown Homewood Farmer’s Market

Farm Stands on the Railroad  is open each Wednesday from 4-6pm, through October 2nd, and is part of Railroad Park’s Get Healthy on the Railroad free exercise program, sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. Railroad Park hosts community gardens/local farmers including Jones Valley Urban Farm and other local growers. 100% of proceeds benefit local gardens/farms. Cash only. Stick around afterwards for a free Zumba class at 6pm, and enjoy a variety of other free exercise classes every weekday at 6 pm. Railroad Park is located on 17th Street, Birmingham.

Mt. Laurel Farm School grows and sells more than 75 varieties of vegetables throughout the year. In partnership with Jones Valley Urban Farm, the Mt. Laurel Farm School operates a farm stand located just 1.5 miles from the Mt. Laurel town center. Hours of operation are from 10am-4pm, daily.

West Homewood Farmer’s Market begins the first Saturday in June, and runs from 8am-12noon. The West Homewood Farmer’s Market features area farmers, arts & crafts and more, plus, live music from 9:30-11:30. The West Homewood Farmer’s Market will also host a Saturday evening market from 5pm-8pm on the following dates: Aug. 16th, Sept. 13th, and Oct. 18th.

The Summit Marketwill run on Thursdays from 3pm-7pm beginning May 24th through July 26th. Located in the Summit in front of Urban Cookhouse restaurant, the Summit Market will host local farmers, plus fun kids activities and crafts.

Eastlake Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays from 8am-12noon, beginning in early May  through October 12th. Located at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and 78th Street in the Eastlake neighborhood (near Ruffner Mountain)., the Eastlake 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. Go here for more information about SFMNP.

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

Naptime Confessions: May Day! May Day!

Posted on by Angie

May is Busy! Like Crazy Busy.. Moms with school age children tried to warn me, but I wasn’t listening. I forgot to feed my children lunch the other day and feel like a personal ATM – How do you manage to stay organized during the last few weeks of the school year? Any tips to share?

 

Secret Formula to Summer Fun Giveaway, from The World Of Coca-Cola

Posted on by Angie

Summer is here and we’re kicking it off with a giveaway, thanks to our friends at The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, GA. If you’re looking for an excuse for a day trip or a little weekend getaway, this giveaway is for you!

For over 125 years, they’ve been putting their secret formula into each bottle of Coca-Cola®. Now they are inviting you to feel closer than ever before to Coca-Cola’s most closely guarded trade secret and learn about the intrigue behind the secret formula in the new Vault of the Secret Formula experience at the World of Coca-Cola.

In this new and immersive experience, you will learn about the story of the secret formula and how it is more than a list of ingredients – it represents 125 years of history, special moments, memories and the timeless appeal associated with Coca-Cola.

You will be able to learn and have fun with many interactive experiences that showcase the origins, mystery and magic surrounding the story of the secret formula. You may try to match the perfectly balanced taste of Coca-Cola with a virtual Taste Maker or experience a fun zone of myths and legends. You can have a hand in protecting the secret in a full-body interactive game that takes you to many of the locations where the secret formula has been kept. You can even deepen your knowledge of the secrets behind the secret in our new mobile storytelling experience by using your smartphone.

You can even deepen your knowledge around the secrets behind the secret in the new mobile storytelling experience by using your smartphone. Look for QR codes located throughout this experience. Scanning the QR codes with a QR code reader will give you access to new content within the experience and exciting multimedia features.

To learn more about the history of The Coca-Cola Company, click here.

The World of Coca Cola has given us a 4 pack of tickets to giveaway, to one lucky reader. Here’s how to enter:

1. Leave a comment on this post letting us know your favorite coke product: 1 per person

2. Other than the Secret Formula Exhibit, name one more exhibit you can find at the World of Coca Cola – You can find them by visiting the World of Coca Cola Website: 1 per person

3. Head over to the Coca Cola Facebook page and tell them thanks for offering this giveaway on BirminghamMommy.com: 1 per person

Giveaway will end Thursday May 17th at 6pm. Winner will be announced on Facebook Friday, May 18th.

 

Disclosure: The World of Coca-Cola provided these tickets and those we will use to visit the attraction. As always, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are our own.

Event of the Week: Tails in the Trails – Birmingham Zoo

Posted on by Angie

Get a sitter but don’t tell the kids where you’re going, they’ll never let you out of the house!

The Birmingham Zoo’s Junior Board will hold its 2nd annual spring event, Tails in the Trails, on May 17th from 5:30 to 9pm in Trails of Africa. Guests can enjoy live music, food, cocktails and animal encounters while viewing the elephants on exhibit. To purchase tickets for Tails in the Trails, call 205.879.0409. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Presenting Sponsor – DonohooAuto
Bulwagi Sponsor – Avondale Brewery
Callee Sponsors – O’Neal Steel | Swatek, Azbell, Howe & Ross
Ajani Sponsors – Amari Law Firm | Goodfellas Gaming | Ray & Poynor Properties | Saks Fifth Avenue | StoneRiver Company
Tails Sponsors – EMJ Metals | Maynard, Cooper & Gale

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 13th – May 20th

Posted on by Angie

We hope you are enjoying your Mother’s Day and spending some quality time with your family!

We’ve got a pretty busy week in the Magic City! Tails in the Trails will be going on at the Birmingham Zoo, we’ve got our big movie event this Friday with Brookwood Medical Center. If you weren’t able to claim a ticket before they were gone, don’t worry, we might just have a few to giveaway!

You’ve got Do Dah Day, Family Fun Day at the Birmingham Museum of Art and so much more! Have a great week everyone!

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

Sunday May 13th:

Happy Mother’s Day!
We hope you are afforded the opportunity to have a little down time today! Relax and enjoy your day!

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Design a teacup just in time for Mother’s Day!

Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1:00pm

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Monday May 14th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Tuesday May 15th

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Wednesday May 16th:

Storytime – Gardendale, Martha Moore Library
Stories, silly songs, and fun with Ms. Lucy & Ms. Molly! All ages welcome!!
9:30am

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as for Storytime as we read Bear’s Loose Tooth. Find out what happens when Bear has his first loose tooth. There will be a craft and a treat from our Cafe.
11am

Family Story Time with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
Storyteller Extraordinaire – Come join Mr Mac and his musical storytime complete with puppets! All Ages, no registration required.
10:45am

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Thursday May 17th:

Tails in the Trails – Birmingham Zoo
The Birmingham Zoo’s Junior Board will hold its 2nd annual spring event, Tails in the Trails, on May 17th from 5:30 to 9pm in Trails of Africa. Guests can enjoy live music, food, cocktails and animal encounters while viewing the elephants on exhibit. To purchase tickets for Tails in the Trails, call 205.879.0409. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Presenting Sponsor – DonohooAuto
Bulwagi Sponsor – Avondale Brewery
Callee Sponsors – O’Neal Steel | Swatek, Azbell, Howe & Ross
Ajani Sponsors – Amari Law Firm | Goodfellas Gaming | Ray & Poynor Properties | Saks Fifth Avenue | StoneRiver Company
Tails Sponsors – EMJ Metals | Maynard, Cooper & Gale

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Friday May 18th:

Brookwood Medical Center and BirminghamMommy Movie Event – Carmike Summit
We hope to see you out for the premiere of “What to Expect When Your Expecting”
Tickets that you have claimed through EventBrite will be available at our Will Call table set up in the lobby of the Carmike Theater.
We will have swag for the first 100 to arrive as well as a chance to win some great door prizes.
Movie Starts at 7pm, make sure to arrive in plenty of time to redeem your ticket and get your refreshments!

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Saturday May 19th:

Bart’s Artventure Grand Opening – Birmingham Museum of Art
Free and open to all ages. There is something for everyone!

Join Bart the Art Bat for the grand opening of Bart’s ArtVenture! Cheer Bart on as he cuts the ribbon and opens the doors. Be among the very first to explore the cutting-edge technology and art making opportunities. Step into one of the Museum’s masterpieces via green screen technology. Make an abstract painting with your body on a giant digital canvas. Feast on Bart Cake, make cool art projects, follow Bart on a new Museum adventure.
10am – 5pm

Family Fun Day – Birmingham Museum of Art
The Museum and the Indian Cultural Society hosted over 700 visitors for Bart’s Asian Adventure: A Day of Color a celebration of the Indian Holiday, Holi in March. Musicians, performers, and artists from the Indian community filled the day with activity and ended it all with lots of color, of course!
10am – 5pm

Do Dah Day – Caldwell Park
DO DAH DAY is Birmingham’s 34-year-old music festival.

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.

Tarrant Five Mile Creek Festival – Tarrant Public Library
An all new kidzone stage with carnival rides and inflatable games, live music on the main stage, food, and arts and crafts. Also a hamburger easting contest provided by Hamburger Heaven.

Festival takes place in downtown Tarrant at the corner of Hwy 79 and Ford Avenue.

Schedule of Events
10am Opening Ceremony
10:15 Magic City Diamonds & Gems Drill Team & Drum Squad
10:30 Brandon Bush
11:00 Peanut
12:00 Good Morning Lucy
1:00 Telluride
2:00 Jen Moody Band
3:00 Phil Stacey
4:00 Kryst Lyke

Clay May Days – Clay Community Center
LOTS OF FUN with TOP NOTCH entertainers and events planned for the whole family. NO ENTRY FEE – FREE PARKING. Clay May Days is the annual city-wide family festival held in Clay.

First class Arts and Crafts Vendors from all over the South and in Alabama and locally from Clay will be exhibiting the finest merchandise! Come take a look!

Children’s Activities with live entertainment and Carnival Rides! YUMMY FOOD is exactly what you will get! After a stroll visiting the vendor booths, sit down near the stage and enjoy the music and dancers while you relax.
9am – 4pm

Saturday Market – Pepper Place
Re-open again for the season! Pepper Place Saturday Market brings the best local growers, food producers and artisans to you each Saturday morning. Rain or shine!
7am – Noon

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for Storytime as we read Stars. We will find out how you can make your own star and there will be a treat from the Cafe.
11am

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Sunday May 20th:

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Design a teacup just in time for Mother’s Day!

Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1:00pm

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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: Born to Be Wild, & Flying Monsters.

The Tornadoes of April 27th – Looking Back — Moving Forward, a new exhibit at McWane Science Center, reflects on the experiences of the April 27th, 2011 storms. The exhibit shares personal stories from those who experienced the devastation of the storms firsthand, while emphasizing the importance of tornado preparedness and explaining the science behind tornadoes.

Photos and stories from The Birmingham News help tell the story of the storms and the affect they had on survivors, volunteers, and the community as a whole. Students from Daniel Payne Middle School also help tell the story of their school and community through photos and artifacts from the storm for the exhibit. UAB students worked with the children from Daniel Payne Middle School to create short documentaries that can be seen in the exhibit as well.

In addition to sharing the personal stories from that day, the goal of this exhibit is to inform the community about how to prepare for extreme weather conditions, explaining the science of tornadoes and stressing awareness.

With vivid displays, the exhibit allows visitors the opportunity to learn about the scientific side of tornadoes. Graphics within the exhibit illustrate tornado formation and anatomy, educating visitors on how such extreme weather conditions develop. Additionally, the exhibit displays statistics and disputes common myths concerning the destructive storms.

Guests can watch live video from the storms that rolled across our state on April 27th, 2011, including the
weather forecasts from that day and actual images of the tornado as it made its way through our area provided by FOX6 WBRC. The exhibit is located in the City Gallery on Level 2 of the museum this summer.

Be Ready Alabama Exhibit Presented by:
The Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
www.readyalabama.org

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

RHINO ENCOUNTER – Embark on an African adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary animals, the Southern White Rhino. Watch from only feet away as our zookeepers engage in hands-on interaction with the animals inside their African-themed exhibit. Don’t miss this exciting encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet!
Weekdays: 3pm – 3:30pm
Weekends: 11:30am – Noon & 3pm – 3:30 pm

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am  & 2pm – 3pm

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.

Happy Mother's Day, Mama's!

Posted on by Angie

From bumps and bruises to fever’s and flu’s, a Mother’s work is never done. We all want our little ones to be happy and healthy and that alone is a full time job. Whether you stay at home, work outside or inside the home,  the hours are long and the nights are often sleepless.

We hope you all have a chance to relax and take a little time out for just you! You deserve it!

Happy Mother’s Day to all of you BirminghamMommy’s!

Craft: Mommy TV

Posted on by Angie

This is a great one for the kids to make. A great idea would be for dad to craft this with the kids for a nice gift for mom on Mother’s Day.

Materials:
Cereal box
2 empty paper towel rolls
brown construction paper
tape
photos

To assemble:
All you do is cut a 3×5 inch hole in the cereal box, then cut holes on the the top ends for the paper towel rolls.
Cover the box with brown paper and draw some dials, an on/off switch, etc.
Tape the photos together in a loop.
Place the paper towel rolls in the top holes, linking the photos in them. Add an antenna from the scraps, and VOILA!

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