Grab & Go Kids Planner: Bears' Birthdays, Origami and Maple Syrup

Here are Patch's suggestions for fun family activities this weekend in and around Inver Grove Heights:

• FOREVER WILD FAMILY FRIDAYS: SIGNS OF SPRING
  When/Where: 7pm to 8:30pm on Friday at Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
  Why Go: Bring your family to Lebanon Hills Visitor Center on the first Friday of each month for fun, family entertainment. A new activity will be waiting each month and will include games, scavenger hunts, bonfires, snacks and more. Registration is required.
  Cost: Free
• BOY SCOUT/GIRL SCOUT PROGRAM: MAPLE SYRUP TIME
  When/Where: The Girl Scout program is at 10am to 11:30am on Saturday. The Boy Scout program is from 1pm–2:30pm. Both are held at the Dodge Nature Center.
  Why Go: Celebrate the return of spring by observing the age-old process of turning tree sap into syrup.  Observe a tree tapping demonstration, collect sap, visit the evaporator, and sample some delicious maple syrup.  Don’t forget to dress for the weather; we will spend time outdoors. Pre-registration is required by calling 651-455-4531.
  Cost: $6 per child.
• BEAR BIRTHDAY BASH AT THE MINNESOTA ZOO
  When/Where: 10am to 2pm on March 5 and 6
  Why Go: Minnesota Zoo residents Haines, Kenai, and Sadie are turning 5. Each day at 10am, zoo staff will have a special birthday treat for the grizzly bears. Visitors can sign a birthday card for the bears and stop by and say hello to costumed character guests the "Berenstain Bears." There will also be bear birthday craft activities and grizzly bear bookmarks while supplies last.
  Cost: Zoo admission is free for children under 2, $10 for children ages 3-12, $16 for visitors ages 13-64 and $10 for ages 65+.
• JAPANESE ORIGAMI AND RIBBON ARTS
  When/Where: 1:30pm to 3pm at Inver Glen Library in Inver Grove Heights.
  Why Go: Learn about Japanese culture with ArtStart as you create decorative ornaments using traditional origami folded-paper technique.
  Cost: Free
• MU DAIKU DRUMS PERFORMANCE
  When/Where: 2:30pm to 3:15pm at the Roberts Trail Library in Rosemount.Why Go: Listen to a energetic and dynamic performance of Japanese-style drumming.
  Cost: Free