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Kids Planner: Swim, Explore and Celebrate

Oakdale's citywide garage sales and a nearby Cinco de Mayo festival are this weekend.

Posted Wed, May 4, 2011 at 1:06 pm CT|Updated Wed, May 4, 2011 at 1:09 pm CT

Think positive! Spring and summer have to show up eventually. Here are some fun things to do while we wait for spring to make her appearance.

Open Swim

When/Where: Saturday, May 7, from 1:30- 3 p.m. at the pool.
Why Go: Memorial Day may be when the beaches open, but if you can’t wait that long head over to Skyview.
Geared Toward: The whole family.
Price: $10 for a family of four.

When/Where: Anytime all summer at most Minnesota State Parks.
Why Go: It’s the ultimate treasure hunt! Get your family out there and explore all of the great natural resources our state has to offer. There are caches in most of the state parks so whether you are near or far there is a site near you.
Geared Toward: The whole family.
Price: If you don’t have a GPS unit you can check one out for free at any of the Demo Parks (including Afton). $25 vehicle permit is good for admission to all of the state parks for one year.

City Wide Garage Sale

When/Where: May 5, 6 and 7^th at various locations around Oakdale. Pick up your location list at either City Hall or the Discovery Center.
Why Go: You may be able to find that perfect gently used bike for your munchkin or perhaps that fondue pot you never knew you needed.
Geared Toward: Anyone who likes a great deal.
Price: As much or as little as you want to spend.

When/Where: May 6 from 4-9 p.m. and May 7 from 9-6 p.m. in District del Sol.
Why Go: A parade, jalapeno-eating contest, lots of Mexican fare and lots of music – what’s not to like?
Geared Toward: The whole family but Saturday is the more family friendly of the two days.
Price: As much or as little as you want to spend.

When/Where: Friday, May 13 from 9:30-11 a.m. at the .
Why Go: We hear them chirping all the time, but what’s really going on with these little critters?
Geared Toward: 3- to 6- year olds. Must be potty trained.
Price: $7 per participant.
Register by: May 6.