This Week's Picks: Butterflies, Art, and Music, August 11 - 15

8/11/14 - By Jacqueline Stansbury

Some of us are heading back to school, and some of us still have a few more weeks to enjoy the Summer of Play. As the rush to get school supplies, clothes, and backpacks heats up, don’t forget the simple pleasures of our city. Leave the madness of the mall behind and take those kids for a hike, a picnic in the park, or just let them stretch their little bodies on the monkey bars. If the need for an activity hits, head to a museum or a concert. Or try one of our five picks from this week's family events calendar.

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1. Cow’s End Sing-Along – Monday
This is a delightful "mommy and me" activity and a great way to connect with little ones who are still at home now that older siblings have started returning to the classroom. The Cow's End café in Venice hosts kid appropriate musical artists. Free admission, but tipping is encouraged (and please don’t bring outside food or coffee).

2. LACMA - Tuesday
This week there are two reasons to head to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The admission is free on the second Tuesday of the month, and the four dollar classic matinee is Singin’ in the Rain. My kids love this movie; bet yours will too. Donald O’Connor was doing Parkour way before the French thought of it.

3. Birds of Madrona – Wednesday
Check out our local fowl and seasonal avian appearances at the Madrona Marsh in Torrance. Local bird expert, Bob Shanman, leads the walk. Binoculars are recommended but not required.

4. Twilight Concert – Thursday
Thursday nights in the summer in Santa Monica mean that it’s time to head to the Pier or bring a picnic blanket on the sand below for a free concert by the sea. This week, La Santa Cecilia plays Latin music.

5. Summer Nights in the Garden – Friday
Enjoy butterflies, botanicals, and a KCRW DJ at the Natural History Museum. This week the craft is a miniature gourd vessel. Admission is free, but do RSVP to be sure there is room for your family.