Weekend Outlook - November 19-21

Economoms' recommendations for the best budget-conscious family activities in the Maryland region for the weekend of November 19-21:

Welcome Santa to Harborplace with a Light Show!: Harborplace & The Gallery will welcome Santa as he is ushered in by a cast of characters, including Astro the Dinosaur from the Maryland Science Center, Choo Choo Blue from the B&O Railroad Museum, and Puffin from the National Aquarium. Santa’s home-away-from-home has been transformed with LED lights choreographed to music to create one-of-a-kind light shows. After his arrival, Santa’s home can be visited each day through Christmas Eve. Welcome and kick-off show Friday, Nov. 19, 6-8 p.m. Event FREE! (Charge for photos with Santa)

Tree Lighting, Santa Visit and Screening of Elf: Kick off the holiday season at The Avenue in White Marsh with an evening of festivities including holiday music, street vendors, activites for children, and even snow! All leading up to the arrival of Santa to light a 35-foot tree! Then, stick around for an outdoor screening of
the holiday movie favorite Elf. Friday, Nov. 19, 6-9:30 p.m. FREE

Baltimore Ski Swap: Are you a family of skiers? Check out Baltimore Ski Swap 2010 for new and nearly new skis, snowboards, boots, poles, helmets, goggles, jackets, pants, fleeces, vests, hats, and gloves at unbeatable prices. Saturday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Towson National Guard Armory. $2 admission for adults, kids 15 and under FREE.

Free Kids Crafts at Lakeshore Learning: This event is hosted EACH and EVERY Saturday. This weekend, children will create their own Thanksgiving placemats. For parents -- click on the link to get a 15% off coupon for any non-sale item in the store! Sat, Nov. 20, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Towson location.

Princess Tea Party at Great Kids Village: THIS SUNDAY! BUY YOUR TIX NOW! Click to get $3 off admission, exclusively available to Economoms. Parents and babies get in for free. A royal ball, princessy crafts, mini manis, facepainting ...... what more could a princess-in-training ask for?