Updated: Five Fun Things to Do This Week Without Breaking the Bank

EAST GREENWICH, RI—With the February vacation this week, there are plenty of fun things to do around Patch country. We picked a few good ones that work for the whole family, but there are dozens more in the Patch calendars. Here are some ideas.

1. Tuesday, Take a Nature Tour with Department of Environmental Management Guides

A free tour open house starts at 10 a.m. in North Kingstown, and a tour steps off at 12:30 p.m. in Glocester. Here are the details.

Lafayette Fish Hatchery, 424 Hatchery Road, North Kingstown

"The Division of Fish & Wildlife will host an open house with continuous tours of the trout hatchery – one of three facilities where DEM raises fish until they are stocked in state waters. There will be arts and crafts, and participants will learn about the life stages of trout, fly-casting and fly-tying, and fish-feeding." The event starts at 10 a.m. and lasts until 3 p.m.

George Washington Management Area, 2185 Putnam Pike, Glocester

The Divisions of Forest Environment and Law Enforcement will host a guided hike in this 4,000-acre management area. "Participants will learn about wildlife, trees, and conservation practices. The guided hike will depart from George Washington Management Area headquarters office building. Space is limited to 30 registered children and their families. To register, send the name and ages of participants to Bruce Payton at bruce.payton@dem.ri.gov. Participants are encouraged to bring a t-shirt that can be used for wildlife footprint stamping."

2. Wednesday, Go Ice Skating and Help the Food Bank

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, the Boss Ice Arena at University of Rhode Island and Cat Country (98.1) Radio are offering a free day on the rink. Admission is one can of food for the food bank. Skating starts at 11 a.m. at the arena, 1 Keaney Road, Kingston.

3. Wednesday Morning, Salute George Washington

The Artillery Company of Newport will hold a cannon salute on the Redwood Library lawn, 50 Bellevue Ave, on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 11:30 a.m. The salute will take place next to the statue of George Washington, facing Old Beach Road. The library invites all to participate in "this colorful salute to our first president."

4. Wednesday Evening, Check Out Sky Lab

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, Astronomer Francine Jackson presents a free Sky Lab at 6 p.m. at the Marian J. Mohr Memorial Library, 1 Memorial Ave., Johnston. She's also the Ladd Planetarium Coordinator, and this program is for "curious children and families." Sign up is required at 401-231-4980 (and press 5). Weather-permitting, expect to enjoy some stargazing outside.

• Planet and space related stories, activities and crafts
• Stargazing with our local astronomers and their telescopes (Bundle up!)
• Retreat to the indoors for a hot cup of cocoa (with marshmallow constellations) and graham crackers.

5. Saturday, Hearts for Horses Dinner

Horse Play helps abused, neglected and unwanted horses at its North Kingstown sanctuary, and on Saturday, Feb. 25, the group will serve up the annual pasta dinner from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the North Kingstown Community Center, (aka Cold Spring Community Ctr) 12 Beach St., North Kingstown.

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Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5.00 children under 12. Choice of Pasta w/ Meatballs, Turkey or Vegetarian, Salad, Garlic Bread, Dessert and Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Water or Soda. Lots of fun with music, raffles and silent auction, plus gifts for friends and family that help horses in need.

RSVP to Horse Play - (401)864-2943 Website www.hptrc.org Email horseplayri@msn.com

For further information, click here.