Most Austin-area kids will be out of school on Monday, Oct. 13. So what are we going to do to keep them busy? No plans, no problem. We’ve rounded up a few ideas of things to do. But if you’re hoping to just stick around the house and enjoy the break, go for it! Have fun on the extra day off!

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What do to on Columbus Day?

Elgin Christmas Tree Farm Open House
Head out to the Open House for a relaxing day on the farm. Most of the regular field trip activities are offered, but you can do things on your own schedule, such as hayrides, mazes, duck races, and visits with farm animals. Open from 10 a.m. – 2p.m. Admission is $6 for ages 2 and up.

Columbus Day Specials at Safari Champ
Safari Champ will offer a special $5 admission this day. They also offer a drop-off program for kids ages 3 and up, but note that advance registration required which you can do by calling (512) 828-0000. Drop-off rates are:

  • Any 4 hours: $20 per child + $15 each additional sibling
  • Any 8 hours: $40 per child + $35 each additional sibling

Columbus Day Yoga Camp at Little Yoga House
From 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., kids ages 3-12 can attend a drop-off yoga camp. $60. Must bring a nut-free lunch and water bottle. Pre-registration is required which you can do online here.

Woodland Creatures Art Camp and the Art Garage
The Art Garage provides something fun and educational to do on school holidays! This one day art camp is inspired by woodland creatures. Learn the art of wool painting, paint a Night Owl canvas and paint pottery, too. For ages 6-12. Cost: $49. Camp runs 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call at (512) 852-9900 to register!

Create Your Own Pioneer Games at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
From 1-2 p.m., kids and families  can explore what life  was like for kids during the 19th century. Explore the daily life of children, from chores to games, and make your own set of games to take home and play.  Ideal for families with children ages six and up. This workshop is about 40 minutes in length. Museum members may make advance reservations by calling (512) 936-4649. Otherwise, the program is first come, first served and space is limited — pick up a boarding pass when you arrive at the museum. Free with museum admission.

Thinkery Open to the Public, No Baby Bloomers
The Thinkery will be open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for the general public with no Baby Bloomers this day. They are also offering a special workshop for kids ages 8 and up and their parents. From 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., kids can participate in a cow eye dissection. Cost is $39 and registration can be made online here.

Pump It Up: Bubble and Glow Jump Party
Pump It Up will have the glow lights on and bubbles to pop. $8 per child, and adults play free. Each paid admission includes a glow stick. Be sure you don’t forget your socks. The Austin location is open from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Round Rock location is open from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Columbus Day Weekend Specials at Main Event
From 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. you can pay $15.95 per person for unlimited bowling, billiards, laser tag and more. Click here for more info.

Free Family Concert with Jose-Luis Orozco
Join Jose-Luis Orozco at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center for a family concert, where your children will sing, dance, clap and laugh, all while learning basic language and literacy skills in an interactive musical experience! To RSVP, email [email protected].

Have a fun day!