Looking for family-friendly things to do with kids this week (April 16th – April 22nd) in Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, Stillwater, Lake Elmo, and Hastings? You’re in the right place! π
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. πβοΈ Healthy Kids Running Spring Series – Sunday
Healthy Kids Running Series starts THIS Sunday and launches a fun five-week youth running program for kids in Pre-K through 8th grade!
The spring series runs Sundays, April 19–May 17, with age-appropriate race distances each week — from 50- and 75-yard dashes to ¼ mile, ½ mile, and 1-mile runs. High schoolers can even take on a 2-mile run. π
Registration is required (day-of registration is also available). It’s the perfect way to burn off that spring energy and cheer on your favorite little runner! π·π
2. πΏ Carver Lake Clean-Up – Saturday
The annual Carver Lake Park Clean-Up is happening THIS Saturday from 8:30–10:30am — and it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend with a little fresh air and community pride. π
Whether you can stay the full two hours or just swing by for 20–30 minutes, every helping hand makes a difference. It’s a great opportunity to model volunteerism for the kids while helping beautify one of Woodbury’s favorite outdoor spaces.
π Meet at the Carver Lake Park Pavilion
π Dress for the weather + wear closed-toe shoes
π Bring gardening gloves if you have them
Grab your family, invite the neighbors, rally your scout troop or sports team — let’s show Carver Lake Park some love! Make sure to check event details on Facebook for any weather-related updates
3. π75th Anniversary - Dorothy Ann's Bakery - Saturday
A sweet milestone is happening in Woodbury! π Dorothy Ann's Bakery is celebrating 75 delicious years on Saturday, April 18 — and you’re invited.
The first 75 customers will receive $5 in free bakery bucks to spend on anything in the shop (yes, anything π). At 10:00am, there will be a special cake-cutting ceremony, photo ops, and FREE slices of cake while supplies last.
Look for amazing deals on customer favorites like 75¢ glazed donuts, cinnamon crimp bread, chocolate cream-filled cupcakes, and molasses cookies. Plus, keep an eye out for brand-new treats like savory danishes, cookie doughsicles, cake trifle cups, and loaded jumbo cookies. This one smells like a must-stop. π
4. π² Free Earth Day Admission – Washington County Parks
Celebrate Earth Day with fresh air and FREE admission at all Washington County Parks locations during their "First Tuesday" free admission day! It’s the perfect way to honor Earth Day — by getting outside and enjoying it. πΏπ
Explore local favorites like Big Marine Park Reserve, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Pine Point Regional Park, Point Douglas Park & Trails, Square Lake Park, and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Go for a hike, pack a picnic, or try one of the family-friendly self-guided adventure hikes. Be sure to stop by the Welcome Center (if open) to see if any special activities are planned. Bonus: no vehicle permit required — just come and enjoy nature!
5. πΈ Frog Walk – Belwin Conservancy – Tuesday
Hop into spring with a guided Frog Walk at Belwin Conservancy!
Families will stroll around Bulrush Slough listening for the spring calls of Minnesota’s native frogs — including Gray Tree Frogs, Spring Peepers, and Green Frogs. The evening begins with a short intro, followed by a guided walk along a paved trail to listen for frog calls and watch for early signs of spring.
The walk is about 1 mile at a moderate pace with several stops along the way. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Rain or shine event, so dress for the weather!
Activity Rating: 3 (moderate walking with some standing)
Preregistration required. Cost starts at $10/person.
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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