Wild new exhibits at our fave zoo and aquarium

The newest features and experiences at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium for a fantastic family day out.

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New galactic Halloween experience like no other

One mom shares her take on the Cosmic Carnival — in town for a limited time.

The galaxy needs saving ►

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Beyond the classroom

Explore, learn and grow at Annie Wright Schools — where travel broadens perspectives and empowers students to become confident global leaders.

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Give someone a reason to smile

Help support special needs dentistry while receiving care you need at My Kid's Dentist & Orthodontics. Donate $30 to Smile for Special Needs and receive $100 off your dental treatment.

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Top events this weekend

Welcome to October! I am ready to admire the gorgeous colors on a fall hike and cozy up with a warm apple cider before the Halloween festivities begin. Yep, I’m already thinking of Halloween, as there’s a new Cosmic Carnival in town and we got the inside scoop. Not ready for Halloween yet? There are plenty of other ways to make the most of this first weekend of October, whether you head to one of my top 10 weekend activities, scope out this newly renovated zoo and aquarium, or take in the views at the playground of the week.

— Meredith Charaba, family fun editor

TOP 10 EVENTS THIS WEEKEND ►

Overlook Walk Opening Celebration

Celebrate the opening of this integral part of the waterfront makeover with music and crafts, and try out the new slides and climbing structures! (FRI.)

Fort Nisqually Candlelight Tour

Travel back to 1855 and see how people lived — entertaining themselves with song and dance (and not a screen in sight!) — on this cool tour of Fort Nisqually. (FRI.–SAT.)

Lacey Children’s Day Under the Big Top Circus

Come one, come all to Lacey's free Children's Day featuring a Vuelta La Luna Traveling Circus performance with aerialists and acrobats. (SAT.)

Issaquah Salmon Days

Celebrate the return of the salmon at this beloved yearly festival featuring a parade, special activities for kids and fresh salmon off the grill. (SAT.–SUN.)

Steilacoom Apple Squeeze

Stock up on delicious apple goodies, shop the street fair and let the kids have a blast with children’s activities at this annual apple extravaganza. (SUN.)

MORE EVENTS ON OUR CALENDAR ►

‘The Anxious Generation’ with Jonathan Haidt

Join our live talk on Oct. 15 with the renowned author to explore the causes of the youth mental health crisis and discover what parents can do about it.