Grab and Go Kids Planner

We've done the research, we've done your homework, and we're ready to give you our suggestions for ways you can get up and go with your family this week and heading into the weekend.

We think we've found a great mix—indoors and outdoors, fun and educational, right here in town and not too far away.

Here's our five suggestions for this week. Look for the kids’ planner each Wednesday, and help us build the planner with your own suggestions and tips—just add them to the comment box. Even if you disagree with our picks, let us know. We want to hear from you!

Where/When: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why Go: It's  a special event: "Quilts: Easy Being Green: Recycle, Reuse, Renew." Enjoy this 33rd annual quilt show including a special "green" quilt, exhibits, fashion show, children's activities and even a quilt auction.
Pricing: Free

Where/When: 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville. Thursday to Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
Why Go: The Codiga Center and Museum is a focus of the Agricultural History project, an organization dedicated to the preservation of agricultural history on the Central Coast of California. "Pick Now, Eat Later" is one of the museum's permanent exhibits. It pays tribute to the Pajaro Valley's critical role in canning, drying, freezing and freeze-drying fruits and vegetables for the nations food supply.
Pricing: $2 donation suggested

Where/When: 400 Beach St. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why Go: Go down to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for the 30th Annual Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook-Off and Festival. Join the fun and excitement as talented chefs from throughout the West Coast compete for the glory of the best clam chowder. More than just a culinary competition, the fun event has featured participants dressed as scuba divers, mermaids and even as a "Clam Fairy."
Pricing: Free

Where/When: Rio Theater, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m., both days
Why Go:  Screenings of movies from the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Journey to exotic locations, paddle the wildest waters and climb the highest peaks with these amazing big screen stories. For more information, contact the UC Santa Cruz Recreation Department.
Pricing: Check with UCSC Recreation Department, call 831-459-2806 or e-mail info@ucscrecreation.com.

Where/When: 1 W. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz. Saturday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why Go: The Core Scholastic Surf League presents its surf contest for middle- and high-school students at Steamer Lane.
Pricing: Free