Looking for family-friendly things to do with kids this week (April 9th – April 15th) in Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, Stillwater, Lake Elmo, and Hastings? You’re in the right place! 🎄
Be sure to check the Macaroni KID Events Calendar daily—new activities and last-minute seasonal fun are added all the time!
TOP FAMILY PICKS THIS WEEK
1. 🌍 2026 Multicultural Event – Woodbury (Friday)
Celebrate the vibrant cultures that make up our local school communities at this FREE family-friendly event presented by SoWash Schools at Woodbury High School! Food trucks open at 5pm, and the cultural program begins at 6pm. Bring the kids, try something new, and enjoy an evening filled with music, performances, and community connection.
2. 🖍️ Million Crayon Giveaway – Crayola Experience at Mall of America (April 15–May 31, 2026)
In honor of National Crayon Day, Crayola Experience Mall of America is giving away 1 MILLION crayons! Families can register in advance to receive a customized 32-count crayon box and choose a pickup date. During your visit, kids (and let’s be honest… adults too 😉) can fill their box with their favorite colors at the Pick Your Pack wall. Limit two boxes per household, and registration is required—don’t miss this colorful, creative event at Mall of America!
3. 🌙 Twilight Trail Adventure – Cottage Grove (Wednesday)
Head to Shepard Farm in Cottage Grove for a magical after-dark adventure. Families will enjoy an easy, guided nighttime hike while learning what wildlife is up to after sunset. Listen for owl calls, discover nighttime forest sounds, and experience nature in a whole new way. It’s educational, memorable, and perfect for curious kids.
4. 🐄 Adopt a Plush Cow – Chick-fil-A Woodbury (Thursday)
Saddle up for the return of the Adopt a Cow event at Chick-fil-A! Today, Thursday, from 5–7pm, families can enjoy a “Night at the Ranch” filled with interactive activities, tasty samples, and the chance for kids to adopt their very own plush cow. It’s a hands-on, farm-themed evening that’s equal parts fun and adorable.
5. 🦉 Animal Ambassador Meet & Greet – Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center (Hastings)
Spend Sunday with the amazing Animal Ambassadors at Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center! Join naturalist Elsa for FREE drop-in sessions featuring feeding time, training, and up-close learning.
Sunday, April 12:
• 10am – Kevin the Raven (feeding & training)
• 12pm – American Toad (meet & greet)
• 2:30pm – Barred Owl (food prep & feeding)
No registration needed—just stop by and say hello to these fascinating creatures!
I’m a local mom and the publisher of Macaroni KID Woodbury–Oakdale–Cottage Grove–Stillwater, your go-to guide for family fun in the South East Metro! Each week, I share a FREE weekly e-newsletter, update our family-friendly website, and highlight local events, activities, and small businesses. Subscribe today and never miss a local family adventure!
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