Weekend Outlook - Feb 11-13, 2011

Economoms' recommendations for the best budget-conscious family activities in the Maryland region for the weekend of February 11-13:

2011 Motor Trend International Auto Show: Last weekend there were fun events featuring planes and trains. This weekend boys' (and dads'!) other favorite vehicle is on display -- cars!! Head to the Baltimore Convention Center to take an up-close look at hundreds of new cars, trucks, SUVs, alternative fuel vehicles, and displays of futuristic concept cars. Sunday is Family Day, in which all children 12 & under are admitted FREE with a paying adult. If you can't make it Sunday, doors are also open Friday night and Saturday. Click the link above to purchase tickets online and get $2 off each ticket!

Meet Michael Oher: The Ravens football season is over, which means Michael Oher has time for his second job--author. Author? Yep, this offensive tackle who inspired the move The Blind Side has penned his own book. On Saturday at 2 p.m. he'll be at the Timonium Borders to discuss and sign copies of I Beat the Odds. How cool would it be for your little tyke to have a photo with the star? FREE!

Silverlicious Celebration: Party hardy for popular children's series Silverlicious in celebration of the new book featuring Pinkalicious! Specially designed for 4-8 year olds, your book worms will love the games, crafts, giveaways and Pinkalicious Parade that are planned. Taking place at both the Timonium Borders and Columbia Borders on Saturday at 2 p.m. FREE!

Architectural Confectionary Contest: The "sweetest" day of the year is coming up on Monday (Valentine's Day!). Celebrate early at the Baltimore Museum of Industry when folks compete to build famous buildings in the city out of locally made treats, like Berger cookies and Goetze’s Cow Tales. View the confectionary masterpieces, or there's still time to compete! There's even a 12 and under category for youngsters. Event is FREE with museum admission. Judging begins at 1 p.m.

Disney on Ice Princess Wishes: So far we've heard rave reviews of this magical show hosted by Tinkerbell at 1st Mariner Arena through Sunday. Check out this post in (cool) progeny about two moms who treated their toddler girls to the event last night. While seats are sold out online for the $4 off promotion we blogged about earlier, we suggest calling TicketMaster customer service (800-745-3000) and asking for the discount (with a bit of pressing if needed!). I tried this on Wednesday and was successful!

Wintertime at the Zoo: It's forecasted to be 50 degrees and sunny on Sunday! After freezing temps earlier in the week, that'll practically feel like a sauna! Get out of the house and enjoy the Baltimore Zoo at half price! Animals you can expect to see in the winter include the polar bears, zebras, penguins, and otters. This half price special is only available through February, so take advantage while you can!