Weekend Outlook - April 15-17, 2011

Economoms' recommendations for the best budget-conscious family activities in the Maryland region for the weekend of April 15-17:

Early Bird Special at the National Aquarium: If you're a stay-at-home parent or happen to be off on Friday, take advantage of the National Aquarium's last Early Bird Special available for the 2011 season by taking $5 off admission tickets for entry before 11 a.m. The offer is valid on advance online ticket sales only.

Easter Celebrations: Check out Economoms' compilation of Egg-stra Special Easter events, taking place all this month. There are 6 different events taking place this weekend alone!

Johns Hopkins University Spring Fair: It's Spring! That means fair season is starting. Catch JHU's annual fest for food, music, arts & crafts, games, rides and beer for the parents! Friday, noon- 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

17th Annual Friends of the Towson Library Book Sale: Nearly new adult and children’s books, CDs, DVDs and videos will all be on sale at greatly reduced prices--all supporting the Towson Library. Take advantage of bulk pricing on Sunday. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

Fell's Point Privateer Day: Arrgghh you ready for some fun? (Sorry, I couldn't resist). Head down to Fell's on Saturday to celebrate the historic area's maritime history in true pirate fashion. Stop by aMuse Toys for $5 off your $25 purchase, exclusive to Economoms! Planned activities include:

• Live battles with the Valhalla Pirates
• An authentic Living History Camp by The Vigilant Crew
• A battle at sea between The Pride of Baltimore II and another privateer ship
• Dockside ship tours and cruises
• Sailing aboard the “The Fearless” with the Urban Pirates
• Sea shanties and live music by The Brigands, Pirates For Sail, and Inishowen
• Captain James Flint and his musical puppet show
• Storytelling, songs and magic for kids throughout the day

Civil War 150 - The Baltimore Commemoration: FREE events and exhibitions include a Grand Procession commemorating the Pratt Street Riot and the first bloodshed of the war, an encampment and candlelight tours at Fort McHenry, and a Civil War Expo featuring historic sites from around Maryland. Events take place throughout the weekend at various places downtown.

Marshy Point Nature Center's Spring Fest: The 9th annual spring festival will feature music, food, crafts, animal encounters, canoe and boat rides. FREE! Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day: Join YMCAs across the nation on Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for the largest celebration of youth health in the U.S. Members and non-members alike are invited for free games, food, activities, and demonstrations at this event that promotes healthy learning and practices for the entire family.  From face painting to moon bounces, crafts to health information, this event is geared to kids of all ages. Activities vary by location. To see a complete schedule of activities by center, click here.

Mud Chasers Family Fun Day: There's still time to register! You have until 11:59 p.m. on Friday night to work up the guts to sign up for Sunday's Mud Chasers race. There are separate events for adults and kids, so get the whole family in on the action! Unfortunately, Economoms' exclusive promo code for this event has now expired, but we would still love to see you there! Special thanks to Interactive Fitness, Lisa Marie Photography, Thirty-One Gifts with Theresa Taulbee, Fit Mom Circuit Training, Soft and Cozy Baby, Clutterbusters, TZ Burps and Tastefully Simple with Danielle Hollenbeck for sponsoring our team!