Weekend datebook
ANIMALS
Octopus Week
THU-SUN Octopus feeding and talks, craft activities daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. today through Sunday; giant Pacific octopus releases from the aquarium into Elliott Bay viewed by video cameras, Sunday; Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle; $5-$11 (206-386-4320 or www.seattleaquarium.org).
Hoot with the owls
FRI Learn about and meet owls from Woodland Park Zoo, 7 p.m. Friday; also, Seattle Aquarium program on Washington state marine mammals, 7 p.m. Feb. 27, Northwest Stream Center, 600 128th St. S.E., Everett; $4-$6, advance purchase required (425-316-8592).
Woodland Park Zoo
FRI, SAT, SUN Events include illustrated talks about the zoo's Sumatran tiger cubs, which are out of public view for their health and protection, 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through February; other zoo events include raptor programs, 2 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, subject to cancellation due to weather; zoo open 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle; $4.75-$10 admission; parking available, $3.50 (206-684-4800 or www.zoo.org).
Fabulous Felines
SAT Seattle Animal Shelter "adoptathon" of cats and kittens from foster care homes; fees include vaccinations and exam, spay/neuter, microchip and pet license, noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Alki Community Center, 5817 S.W. Stevens St., Seattle; $65-$70 (206-386-PETS or cityofseattle.net/animalshelter).
BENEFITS
Hike for H.I.K.E.
SAT Job's Daughters walk-a-thon to raise money for the Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment Fund, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Green Lake Park, 7201 E. Green Lake Drive N., Seattle; donations requested (425-778-6548).
Microbrew tasting
SAT Samples from 24 craft breweries, snacks, commemorative tasting glass and access to museum galleries, to benefit the Museum of Flight, 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Tukwila; $45 (206-768-7162 or www.museumofflight.org).
"Salute Harborview"
PLAN AHEAD Gala dinner and entertainment to benefit the UW Burn Center at Harborview, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28, Westin Hotel Seattle, 1900 Fifth Ave., Seattle; $300 (206-543-8595).
Issaquah Community Auction
PLAN AHEAD "Catch the Magic and Make Dreams Come True" Kiwanis Club of Issaquah auction and dinner to benefit several local charities, 5:30 p.m. March 1, Snoqualmie Ridge Golf Club, 36005 S.E. Ridge St., Snoqualmie; $75, reservations accepted through today (425-392-4016).
"Save the Turtles"
PLAN AHEAD EcoTeach Foundation dinner and auction to benefit effort to save the critically endangered Leatherback sea turtle, 5-8 p.m. March 2, Space Needle, 305 Harrison St., Seattle; $75 (206-789-5668).
Mardi Gras Gala
PLAN AHEAD Rush Hour Rotary event with New Orleans-style entertainment, dancing, food, auction and raffle; Mardi Gras-style costumes and masks encouraged; proceeds benefit First Place School for children of homeless and at-risk families, 6 p.m. March 2, Columbia Tower Club, 701 Fifth Ave., Seattle; $75 (425-646-7676).
BICYCLING
Use It or Lose It
THU Cascade Bicycle Club 15-mile, social-pace ride on trails and industrial roads; lights required, fenders highly recommended, 7 p.m. today, Mountainbike Outfitters, 703 Central Ave., Kent (206-522-BIKE or www.cascade.org).
Gas Works to Mercer Island
FRI Cascade Bicycle Club 25-30 mile, social-pace ride with lunch stop; heavy rain cancels, 10 a.m. Friday, Gas Works Park, 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle (206-522-BIKE or www.cascade.org).
Gas Works to Mercer Island
SAT Cascade Bicycle Club 35-mile, social-pace ride with lunch stop; heavy rain cancels, 10 a.m. Saturday, Gas Works Park, 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle (206-522-BIKE or www.cascade.org).
Renton to Mercer Island
SAT Highline Bicycle Club social-pace ride to Mercer Island with lunch stop, Saturday, Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 1201 Lake Washington Blvd., Renton (425-430-9383).
Chilly Hilly
SUN Kick-off of the bicycling season, Cascade Bicycle Club 33-mile, hilly ride around Bainbridge Island, start time 7:30-10:30 a.m. Sunday, B.I. Cycle Shop, 162 Bjune Dr. S.E., Winslow; $5-$25 (888-334-BIKE or www.cascade.org).
BIRDING
Crows
PLAN AHEAD Entertaining presentation on crows by East Lake Washington Audubon Society, Feb. 27, Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church, 308 Fourth Ave. S., Kirkland; free (425-576-8805 or www.elwas.org).
BOATING
Dinner cruise
SAT Gourmet four-course dinner paired with wine on cruise of Lake Washington and Lake Union, Saturday, Waterways Cruises, 809 Fairview Pl. N., Seattle; $59 (206-223-2060 or www.waterwayscruises.com).
Learn to sail
SAT, SUN Eight-lesson basic sailing course, starting 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St., Seattle; $300 (206-382-2628).
Tacoma Boat Show
PLAN AHEAD Display and sale of boats of all kinds and accessories and marine-themed seminars including presentations by Jean-Michel Cousteau of the Ocean Futures Society, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday and Feb. 27, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Feb. 28-March 1, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. March 2, Tacoma Dome, 2727 E. D St., Tacoma; $5-$9 (253-756-2121 or www.tacomadomeboatshow.com).
DANCING
Argentine tango
THU Dance to music with DJ, 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m. today, Washington Dance Club, 1017 Stewart St., Seattle; $6 (206-782-1584).
Irish dancing
THU Set dancing to traditional Irish polkas, jigs and reels for all levels, no partner needed, 7-8:15 p.m. today, Northwest Irish Dancers studio, 15550 27th Ave. N.E., Shoreline; $5, drop in (425-402-8363).
Rock dance
FRI Dance to music from the '60s through now, 8 p.m.-midnight Friday, Mountaineers clubhouse, 300 Third Ave. W., Seattle; $10 (425-827-5112).
Emerald City contra dance
FRI Dance with live music and caller; bring clean, dry leather- or suede-soled shoes; due to chemical sensitivity, this is a scent-free event, lesson 7:30 p.m., dance 8-11 p.m. Friday, All That Dance, 8505 35th Ave. N.E., Seattle; $7 (206-440-9839 or < href="http://seattledance.org/contra/emerald.city.html">seattledance.org/contra/emerald.city.html).
Line dance
FRI Line-dance lesson and dancing to country, swing and pop dance music; smoke and alcohol free, for ages 18 and over, lesson 7 p.m., dance 8-11:30 p.m. Friday, Rocking Horse Dance Barn, 11820 150th Ave. S.E., Renton; $7 each/lesson and dance or $10/both (425-255-9211 or www.learn2dance4fun.com).
Ballroom/jitterbug lessons
FRI Four-session beginning waltz and fox trot ballroom dancing, 7-8:15 Friday and Feb. 28, March 7, 14; four-session beginning jitterbug/East Coast swing, 8:15-9:30 p.m. Friday and Feb. 28, March 7, 14, City Hall Dance Room, 15728 Mill Creek Blvd., Mill Creek; $43/series, preregister (425-745-1891).
Tango Argentino
SAT Dance to music with a DJ, 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday, Fusion Dance Studio Dance Underground, 340 15th Ave. E., Seattle; $6 (206-781-9553).
Ballroom dance
SAT Dance lesson, 7-8 p.m., and dance to live music, 8-11:30 p.m. Saturday, Center House at Seattle Center, Seattle; lesson $3, dance $8 (206-684-7200).
Sweetheart Ball
SAT Jewish Social Singles Club dancing, snacks, desserts and wine, 8 p.m. Saturday, Stroum Jewish Community Center, 3801 E. Mercer Way, Mercer Island; $18/advance, $23/at the door (425-827-5318).
Funky swing
SUN Swing with music by DJ, 6-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Orion Ballroom, 430 Parkplace, Kirkland; $7 (253-988-7943).
Sweetheart Jamboree
PLAN AHEAD Country, line and swing instruction, dances and entertainment, 2-10 p.m. Feb. 28, 9 a.m.-2 a.m. March 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. March 2, Doubletree Guest Suites, 16500 Southcenter Parkway, Tukwila; $65-$80 (253-850-1589 or www.sweetheartjamboree.com)
FESTIVALS / EXPOS
Seattle Home Show
THU-SUN Hundreds of displays of home and garden products, fully furnished and landscaped model homes, home decorating and gardening seminars, antiques and collectibles exhibit, 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. today, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Seahawks Stadium and Exhibition Center, 800 Occidental Ave. S., Seattle; $3-$9 (206-284-0960 or www.seattlehomeshow.com).
Women of Wisdom
THU, FRI, SAT Conference on women's spirituality with the theme "Witnessing the Sacred, Transforming Our World" workshops, seminars, lectures, forums and performances, vendors and art show, banquet, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. today, 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Seattle Unity Church, 200 Eighth Ave. N., Seattle; $5-$195, concerts $12-$18; most workshops $35-$50, higher fees for longer workshops (206-782-3363 or www.womenofwisdom.org).
RingCon
FRI. SAT,SUN Gathering of the clans of Middle Earth, based on "Lord of the Rings" and other tales with fantasy art show and auction, costume contest and ball, writers' workshops, role-playing games, children's activities and entertainment, 4-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Inn at Gig Harbor, 3211 56th St. N.W., Gig Harbor; $15-$30, $15/day, $30/all days (800-359-5948 or www.ringcon.com).
Langley Mystery Weekend
SAT, SUN Follow the clues to help solve a fictional murder mystery, all day Saturday, until 5 p.m. Sunday, Langley Visitor and Information Center, 208 Anthes St. , Langley; $2 (360-221-5676 or www.donothinghere.com).
FOOD
FareStart Guest Chef
THU Chris Leuck of Whole Foods Market prepares a three-course meal featuring salmon with red curry sauce; proceeds benefit FareStart job-training programs, reservations available for seating 5:30-7:45 p.m. today, FareStart Restaurant, 1902 Second Ave., Seattle; $16.95 (206-443 -1233, Ext. 10 or www.farestart.org).
Weeknight gourmet
THU Bainbridge cookbook authors Suzannah Sloan and Sally Sondhiem present a tasting and discussion based on their book, "The Accidental Gourmet Weeknights: A Year of Fast and Delicious Meals," 7:30 p.m. today, Eagle Harbor Book Co., 157 Winslow Way E., Bainbridge Island (206-842-5332).
Sweet-tooth cooking class
SAT Learn to make a fruit tart, ginger crème brulee and chocolate mousse and sample them paired with wine, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Yarrow Bay Grill, 1270 Carillon Point, Kirkland; $39, preregister, space limited (425-889-9052).
Historic milltown food
SAT Bainbridge Island Historical Society meeting and potluck luncheon with history program "As Much Food As They Wanted: Cookhouses at Lumber Towns and Logging Camps on Puget Sound," noon Saturday, Bainbridge Commons, Bainbridge Island (206-842-2773).
Northwest wine
SUN Taste red and white wines paired with soups and chowders, 1-3:30 p.m. Sunday, $45; dinner with cuisine from the French countryside and Northwest wine, 7 p.m. Feb. 28, $99; Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14111 N.E. 145th St., Woodinville (800-267-6793).
Wine taste
PLAN AHEAD Taste 10 wines with snacks, music and silent auction, 7-9:30 p.m. March 1, Phinney Neighborhood Center, 6532 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle; $18, designated drivers $6, advance tickets recommended, space limited (206-783-2244).
"A Celebration of Washington Wines"
PLAN AHEAD Gala dinner featuring wine paired with dinner courses and auction including special selections from state wineries; proceeds benefit Washington State University Viticulture and Enology program, 6 p.m. March 1, Chateau Ste. Michelle winery, Woodinville; $175 (206-448-1335).
GARDEN EVENTS
NW Flower & Garden Show
THU-SUN Gardening and landscaping seminars, marketplace and 29 display gardens and botanical displays, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Feb. 23, Washington State Convention and Trade Center, 800 Convention Place, Seattle; $18/at the door, $12/after 3 p.m. daily, $7/ages 4-11 (800-229-6311 or www.gardenshow.com).
Gardening authors
SAT Local gardening authors Marianne Binetti, Ed Hume, Debra Prinzing and Marty Wingate answer questions and sign their current gardening books, 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Barnes and Noble Booksellers, 600 Pine St., Seattle, free (206-264-0156).
Rose pruning
SUN Zoo senior rose gardener and Seattle Rose Society demonstrate rose pruning and answer questions about rose pruning and care, noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle (206-684-4863 or www.zoo.org).
HIKING
Tiger Mountain
SUN Issaquah Alps Trails Club 5 mile loop to Talus caves, 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Issaquah Alps Trails Club clubhouse, First and Bush streets, Issaquah.
Tradition Lake Plateau
SUN Issaquah Alps Trails Club 4-mile loop on popular Swamp, Big Tree and Adventure trails, 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Issaquah Alps Trails Club clubhouse, First and Bush streets, Issaquah.
HOBBIES
Eastside Camera Club
THU Open meeting for photographers of all levels, 7 p.m. today, Factoria Mall, 4092 Factoria Mall S.E., Bellevue; free. (425-226-3739).
Bead sale
FRI Vendors offer beads of all kinds including vintage, glass, silver, pearls and finished jewelry, 1-8 p.m. Friday, Silver Cloud Inn, 1150 Fairview Ave. N., Seattle (425-893-9438).
Yarn Glam It Up Party
FRI Pacific Northwest Ballet dancers model fashions to knit, plus sparkling wine and gelato, 6-9 p.m. Friday, Hilltop Yarn and Needlepoint, 2224 Queen Anne Ave. N., Seattle (206-282-1332).
Evergreen RV Show
FRI, SAT, SUN Display and sale of RVs and accessories, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. S.E., Monroe; $4.50-$5 (425-339-3309 or www.evergreenfair.org).
Chess tournament
SAT Chess for players of all ages; bring lunch, beverage and chess set, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Loyal Heights Community Center, 2101 N.W. 77th St., Seattle; free (206-684-4052).
Depression Glass Show and Sale
SAT More than 200 tables of glassware, pottery and dinnerware with guest speaker Gene Florence, author of several books on Depression-era glassware; proceeds benefit local charities; free identification of up to two glass items, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Kent Commons, 525 Fourth Ave. N., Kent; $3 (253-852-5250).
Issaquah Historical Society
SAT Part three of five-part history film series "Giant Tree, Logging and Lumber Milling in the Pacific Northwest," 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, series continues March 1, 8, Historic Issaquah Railroad Depot, 50 Rainier Blvd. N., Issaquah; $5.
Tacoma Astronomical Society
SAT Information about telescopes and observation of night skies, dusk Saturday, Pierce College Theatre, 9401 Farwest Drive S.W., Lakewood (253-964-6710 or www.tas-online.org).
Fly Fishing Show
SAT, SUN Demonstrations, seminars and exhibits on fly fishing, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue; $2-$12 (800-420-7582 or www.flyfishingshow.com).
Gem and Mineral Show
SAT, SUN Everett Rock and Gem Club display and sale of crystal and mineral specimens, fossils, gemstones and jewelry, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Washington National Guard Armory, 2730 Oakes Ave., Everett; free (425-422-5068).
Toy Train Swap Meet
SUN Train Collectors Association swap meet, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Lake City Community Center, 12531 28th Ave. N.E., Seattle (425-271-1547).
LITERARY
Improving relationships
THU How to use intuition to improve relationships of all kinds with Nancy Rosanoff, author of "Knowing When It's Right: An Intuitive Approach to Improving Relationships," 7-8:30 p.m. today, East West Bookshop, 6500 Roosevelt Way N.E., Seattle; $8 (206-523-3726).
Lani Guinier
FRI Harvard law professor discusses her new book, "The Miner's Canary: Enlisting Race, Resisting Power, Transforming Democracy," 2 p.m. Friday, Condon Hall, University of Washington School of Law, 1100 N.E. Campus Parkway, Seattle; free, reservations required (206-685-9115).
History Readers' Forum
SAT Richard S. Hobbs, author of "The Cayton Legacy: An African-American Family," the story of a local African-American family and their contributions amid issues of race and class, 11 a.m. Saturday, Museum of History & Industry, 2700 24th Ave. E., Seattle (206-324-1126 or www.seattlehistory.org).
Black History Month
SAT Discussion on speculative fiction writing by people of African descent with special guest science-fiction author Octavia E. Butler, 2 p.m. Saturday, Kirkland Teen Center, 348 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland (425-822-2459).
MUSEUM EVENTS
Girls Day
SAT Family festival to celebrate the Japanese holiday Girls Day with games, music and art activities, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Volunteer Park, 1400 E. Prospect St., Seattle; $3, ages 12 and younger free (206-654-3100 or www.seattleartmuseum.org).
"Remembering Jacob Lawrence"
SAT Gwen Knight Lawrence will share her stories about the life and career of her late husband., 2 p.m. Saturday, Seattle Art Museum, 100 University St., Seattle; free with museum admission of $5-$10 (206-654-3100 or www.seattleartmuseum.org).
Native American carving
SAT Carving demonstration by Tlingit Frank Fulmer, part of the exhibit "Out of the Silence: The Enduring Power of Totem Poles," 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, University of Washington, Northeast 45th Street and 17th Avenue Northeast, Seattle; $5-$8 (206-543-5590 or www.burkemuseum.org).
Free-For-All-Saturday
SAT The museum offers free admission and art activities for children and their families, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Bellevue Art Museum, 510 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue; free (425-519-0770).
Japanese tea ceremony
SUN A narrated presentation of chanoyu, the tea ceremony, in the Teahouse gallery, 2:30 p.m. Sunday and 1 p.m. Feb. 28, Seattle Art Museum, 100 University St., Seattle; advance tickets required, free with museum admission of $5-$10 (206-654-3100 or www.seattleartmuseum.org).
Tibetan Monks sand mandala
PLAN AHEAD Monks from Tibet create an ornate mandala graphic design in colored sand, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through March 1 and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 2, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Volunteer Park, 1400 E. Prospect St., Seattle; $3, ages 12 and younger free (206-654-3100 or www.seattleartmuseum.org).
PADDLE SPORTS
Sammamish Rowing open house
SAT Try rowing and learn about classes and events, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sammamish Rowing Association, 5022 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway, Redmond (425-653-2583 or www.srarowing.com).
Padilla Bay kayaking
SAT Kayak with a guide and a naturalist, no experience necessary, minimum age 12, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Island Outfitters, 24th Avenue and Commercial Street, Anacortes; $55, preregister (360-299-2300).
PARK EVENTS
Carkeek Tyke Hikes
THU Crafts and short walk for 3-6 year-olds and accompanying adult, 10-11:30 a.m. or 1:30-3 p.m. today (and Thursdays through March 20), Carkeek Park Environmental Learning Center, 950 N.W. Carkeek Park Road, Seattle; $2-$3, advance registration required (206-684-0877).
Discovery Park Owls
SAT Indoor program to learn about owls and walk to look and listen for owls, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Discovery Park, 3801 W. Government Way, Seattle; $7, preregistration required (206-386-4236).
Discovery, Inside/Out
SAT Learn about current and future projects at the park, with hands-on activities; for ages 10-adult, 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Discovery Park, 3801 W. Government Way, Seattle; registration required day of event, starting at 8:30 a.m. (206-386-4236).
Stewardship orientation
SAT Train to become a Discovery Park environmental steward for habitat restoration, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Discovery Park, 3801 W. Government Way, Seattle; preregistration required (206-386-4236).
Maple sugaring
SAT Tap native Big Leaf Maples and learn the art of boiling sap into syrup, 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Camp Long, 5200 35th Ave. S.W., Seattle; $3, registration deadline Friday (206-684-7434).
Phenology walk
SAT Walk with a naturalist to create a calendar of season's changes by phenology, the study of nature's calendar, Saturday, Camp Long, 5200 35th Ave. S.W., Seattle; $3, register by Friday (206-684-7434).
Performances
Festival of Freely Improvised Music
FRI, SAT Modern classical music, free improvisation and electronic instruments by local and national performers, 8 p.m. Friday, Center on Contemporary Art, 1420 11th Ave., Seattle, and 8 p.m. Saturday, Polestar Music Gallery, 1412 18th Ave., Seattle; $5-$15 suggested donation (www.seattleimprovisedmusic.com).
Romulo Larrea Tango Ensemble
FRI, SAT Argentine tango lecture and demo, 7:15 p.m., and performance, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Meany Theater, University of Washington, Seattle; $30 (206-543-4880 or 206-292-ARTS or www.uwworldseries.org).
"Candide" concert
FRI, SAT Operatic concert benefit by the Washington Wind Symphony and members of the Sammamish Symphony, proceeds benefit Eastside Musical Theatre, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Kirkland Performance Center, 350 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland; $12-$20 (425-836-9190 or www.eastsidemusicaltheatre.org).
"The Hokum Show"
FRI, SAT "The Love Show" a funny Valentine with vaudeville-style entertainment, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Hokum Hall, 7904 35th Ave. S.W., Seattle; $10-$15 (206-937-3613 or www.hokumhall.org).
V-Day Bastyr
FRI, SAT,SUN Women's Empowerment Through The Arts production of "The Vagina Monologues" and lectures and discussions on empowering women; proceeds benefit local organizations that work to end violence against women, 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday, Bastyr University Auditorium & Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr. N.E., Kenmore; $12 (425-823-1300 or www.vday.org).
Composers workshop
FRI Original compositions by student composers, 8 p.m. Friday, Brechemin Auditorium, University of Washington School of Music, Seattle; free.
Gospel music concert
SAT Soloists, ensemble and the 75-voice Choir of Light "Freedom In My Soul" concert, 7:30-9:45 p.m. Saturday, Center for Spiritual Living, 5801 Sand Point Way N.E., Seattle; $15/advance, $18/day of show (206-527-8801).
Rainier Symphony
SAT, SUN "Once Upon A Dream" family concert, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Kent Meridian High School, 10020 S.E. 256th St., Kent, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Foster High School Performing Arts Center, 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila; $9-$14, kids and teenagers bringing parents are free (206-781-5618).
Chopin program
SUN All-Chopin concert benefits local programs for young pianists, 2 p.m. Sunday, Seattle Art Museum, Seattle; $10-$20 (206-381-1416).
RUN
Mill Creek
SAT Eastside Runners 4.3- or 6-mile run or walk on paved trails and sidewalks, 8:30 a.m. Saturday, meet at Bothell-Everett Highway and Mill Creek Road, Mill Creek (425-316-8149).
SALES
Spring craft show
THU, FRI, SAT Folk art handcrafts from 105 vendors, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. today and Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Lord Hill Farms, 12525 Old Snohomish-Monroe Road, Snohomish (425-888-1798 or www.country-craft.com).
Safety helmets
SAT Federal Way Helmet Coalition provides custom-fit helmets for bike riding and skating for ages 18 and younger, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Community Center at SeaTac Mall, Federal Way; $5-$10 (253-839-6150).
SNOW SPORTS
Snowshoeing, Hurricane Ridge
FRI, SAT, SUN Ninety-minute ranger-guided snowshoe walks in Olympic National Park, snowshoes provided, for ages 6 and older; 2 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, sign up an hour before walk at Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, 18 miles off Highway 101 past Port Angeles; $2 donation requested; sledding area with rope tow available most weekends, call to verify and to check that the road is open; road information is updated daily; park admission $10 per car (visitors center 360-565-3130, road information 360-565-3131).
Snowshoeing, Snoqualmie Pass
SAT, SUN U.S. Forest Service rangers lead a 90-minute snowshoe walk at moderate pace; periodic stops to discuss winter ecology, snowshoeing techniques; wear layers and sturdy, waterproof boots; snowshoes provided, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Forest Service Visitors Center, Snoqualmie Pass; $10 donation requested, advance registration required (425-434-6111).
Snowshoeing, Mount Rainier
SAT, SUN Rangers lead a two-hour snowshoe walk along the Nisqually Vista Loop Trail, a moderately strenuous activity; children must be at least 8 to participate; snowshoes provided; wear waterproof footwear, warm hat, gloves; sunglasses and sunscreen recommended; call to make sure the road to Paradise is open, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; signup begins one hour before each walk on a first-come, first-served basis, space limited; advance reservations available for groups of up to 25 people, Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitors Center, $1 donation requested, park admission $10 per car.
• Areas of the park have trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on routes designated as novice, intermediate and advanced, and are open depending on snow levels and weather.
• Snowboarding on Muir Snowfield only, snow cover and weather permitting.
• Snow-play area north of the upper parking lot at Paradise is the only place in the park where sledding and sliding is permitted; only inner tubes, plastic sleds, saucers and other soft sliding devices permitted.
• Snow camping available, permit required.
• Visitors center with food available; park visitors are required to carry tire chains, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays (360-569-2211, Ext. 3314 or www.nps.gov/mora).
Snowshoeing, Mount Rainier
PLAN AHEAD Trip to Mount Rainier for moderate 2.5-mile walk to learn about plants and animals in winter; snowshoes available for loan or rental, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. March 1, Carkeek Park Environmental Learning Center, 950 N.W. Carkeek Park Road, Seattle; $15-$25, preregistration required by Friday (206-684-0877).
SPECIAL INTEREST
Central District Forum
THU "What Next: An African American Initiative Toward World Peace," Central District Forum for Arts and Ideas presentation featuring author Walter Mosley, 7 p.m. today, Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center, 104 17th Ave. S., Seattle; $7-$10 (206-323-4032).
Tax help, Bothell
THU Tax-return assistance for senior and low-income citizens; bring last year's tax form and all current information; by appointment, walk-ins accommodated as time permits, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today and Feb. 27, Bothell Regional Library, 18215 98th Ave. N.E., Bothell; call Northshore Senior Center for appointments (425-486-4564).
Tax help, Renton
FRI, SAT Trained volunteers help with filling out your tax return; no business or complex returns, bring last year's return, which must show income of $50,000 or less, by appointment only Friday and Saturday, by appointment only Feb. 28, Fairwood Library, 17009 140th Ave. S.E., Renton; free (425-226-0522 or www.kcls.org).
The Conscientious Projector
FRI, SAT, SUN Kitsap Citizen Action Network film and video festival on local and global issues for the world's social and ecological health, plus Green Product Expo, 6:30 p.m. Friday, 10:45 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Bainbridge High School, 9330 N.E. High School Road, Bainbridge Island; $8/day, $20/weekend pass, $7/Saturday dinner (206-842-9582 or www.kitsapcan.org).
Smile Day
SAT Seattle King County Dental Society free dental check and goody bag for children up to age 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Pacific Science Center, 200 Second Ave. N., Seattle; exam and child's admission to Science Center free with required coupon available at all Bartell Drug Stores (206-443-7607).
Black History Month
SAT Legacy of African-American resistance to war, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Freedom Socialist Party, New Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle; $2 (206-722-2453).
Bridal show
SUN Bridal party fashion show and information from wedding-related vendors, 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Edmonds Floral Conference Centre, 201 Fourth Ave. N., Edmonds; first 200 people free (425-776-6711).
SAT practice test
PLAN AHEAD Bring a pencil, eraser and calculator to take a practice SAT test, 10 a.m. March 1, Burien Library, 14700 Sixth Ave. S.W., Burien; free, preregistration required, space limited (206-243-3490).
Women's Wellness Weekend
PLAN AHEAD YMCA weekend with yoga, hiking, kayaking, fitness walks, healthful meals, massage therapy, hot tubs and lodging, March 7-9, Camp Orkila, Orcas Island; $90-$150 depending on accommodations chosen (206-382-5009).
SPECTATOR SPORTS
UW men's basketball
THU, SAT Huskies vs. Oregon State, 7 p.m. today, and Oregon, 4 p.m. Saturday, Bank of America Arena, University of Washington, Seattle; $8-$12, or Family Plan that includes general admission, sodas, hot dogs for four, $32 (206-543-2200 or www.gohuskies.com).
SPU basketball
THU, SAT Seattle Pacific University Falcons (21-0), top-ranked in the nation in women's Division II basketball, play Seattle University, 5:30 p.m. today, and Western Washington University, 7 p.m. Saturday; SPU men's basketball vs. Humboldt State, 7:30 p.m. today, and vs. Western Oregon, 7 p.m. Saturday, Brougham Pavilion, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle; $3-$5 (206-281-2000).
High-school wrestling and gymnastics finals
FRI, SAT WIAA Mat Classic, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Saturday; WIAA Gymnastics Finals, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Tacoma Dome Arena and Exhibition Hall, Tacoma; $5-$16 (253-572-3663).
VISUAL ARTS
Gallery opening, Snohomish
FRI Music and food at grand opening of gallery for local artists, 5-9 p.m. Friday, The Offset Corner, 310 Maple Ave., Snohomish (360-862-1100 or www.offsetcorner.com).
VOLUNTEER
Seattle Aquarium
SAT Learn about volunteer opportunities at the Aquarium; minimum four hours a week to a total of at least 100 hours of service required; call for application form; 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, The Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle (206-386-4320, Ext. 6).
Trails and Rails open house
PLAN AHEAD Learn about volunteer opportunities with Trails and Rails, a National Park Service and Amtrak program to provide on-board education programs on passenger trains throughout the country, 1-3 p.m. March 2, Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, 117 S. Main St., Seattle (206-553-7220).
WORKSHOPS
Brazilian percussion
THU Learn skills from samba-reggae Brazilian rhythm artist Oldum, 8:30-10 p.m. today, Rainier Valley Cultural Center, 3515 S. Alaska St., Seattle; $10-$20 (425-643-4181 or www.showbrazil.com).
Writers sessions
THU, FRI Write short stories, articles, essays and books for fun or publication; attend one or all sessions, 1 p.m. today and Feb. 27, Kenmore Library, 18138 73rd Ave. N.E., Kenmore (425-486-8747); or 2 p.m. Friday and Feb. 28, Bothell Regional Library, 18215 98th Ave. N.E., Bothell (425-486-7811).
Qigong
FRI Learn the Buddhist healing and meditation Qigong, 7:15-9:15 p.m. Friday, Stonehouse Bookstore, 12600 N.E. 85th St., Kirkland; preregister (425-889-5106).
Intuitive intelligence
SAT How to use intuition in grounded and practical ways, with author Nancy Rosanoff, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, East West Bookshop, 6500 Roosevelt Way N.E., Seattle; $150 (206-985-1200).
Travel in Europe classes
SAT Travel in France, 11 a.m.; travel in Germany, Austria, Switzerland 1 p.m., both Saturday, Europe Through the Back Door, 130 Fourth Ave. N., Edmonds; free., reservations required (425-771-8303, ext. 298 or www.ricksteves.com).