Weekend Outlook - Jan 7-9, 2011

Littles Day at Port Discovery

Economoms' recommendations for the best budget-conscious family activities in the Maryland region for the weekend of January 7-9:

Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration & Discounted Admission to The Aquarium: Tonight! March in a Chinese Lion parade and enjoy dance performances representing Thailand, Hawaii, and the Philippines amongst the sharks, starfish, and octopi! There will also be arts and crafts for the kids and a Chinese calligraphy demonstration. Free with general admission, which is only $8 with Fridays After Five admission. Click here for a $3 off parking coupon.

Woodworking and DIY Show at The Maryland Fairgrounds: Dad alert! This is a perfect way for dad and his brood to get out of the house on a cold weekend afternoon. A weekend full of demos, workshops, and showcases on power tools, woodworking, and wood masterpieces ... What more could you ask for!? FREE for children under 15 and $10 for adults. Click on the 'Coupons' tab on the web site to get $2 off admission and a voucher for free spouse admission. Open until 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 8; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 9.

WeeHands Baby/Toddler Sign Language Class: FREE! Find out why signing has become one of the most popular communications techniques for little ones at this class that will introduce you to the WeeHands program. If you enjoy it, sign up for a discounted session, only available through Economoms. Saturday, Jan. 8, 10 a.m.

Littles Day at Port Discovery: A day designed for tikes under 5! The following special activities are planned on Saturday, Jan. 8, which are FREE with regular admission of $12.95 per person:

• Visit from Pets on Wheels, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Magic and Balloon Sculpting with Bubbles The Clown, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Kindersinger - Snowy Serenade, 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Three Kings at The Walters

Three Kings Celebration at The Walters: Thursday was Día de los Tres Reyes Magos, Day of the Three Kings! In many Hispanic communities, this holiday is just as important as Christmas, celebrating the coming of the three magi to offer gifts for baby Jesus. Bring the entire family for performances, art activities, a visit from the Three Kings, and Rosca de Reyes or Kings' cake. Saturday, Jan. 8, 12-3 p.m. FREE!