While your kids will be ecstatic to be off of school during winter break, the combination of holiday overload and cabin fever can quickly turn a week of fun into a week you’d like to forget. Do yourself a favor and head out to the Missouri History Museum’s Winter Getaway. This event is guaranteed to bring a smile to even the crabbiest of faces.

On Monday, Dec. 27, escape to the island of Pen Gu and enjoy a free viewing of the film Surf’s Up. After the movie, stick around to meet Norton the penguin and take part in penguin-centric activities. Take a short 20-minute tour of the museum to see all kinds of objects that can get you from one to place to another.

Come back on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, Dec. 28 and 29, as Babaloo the Magnificent sings songs that will warm your heart and put a jiggle in your feet. Children will have a chance to read a book to a support dog and participate in canine-themed fun during the PAWS for Reading event on Thursday. While the Winter Getaway’s schedule of activities change daily, children can drop in every day to whip up spectacular arts and crafts.

Make sure your family is there at noon for the best part of the day — complimentary North Star frozen treats. It’s never too cold for ice cream in my book.

The Missouri History Museum’s Winter Getaway is taking place from December 27 to December 30. Activities start at 10:30 a.m. each day and run to various times. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit the History Museum’s website or give them a call at  (314) 746-4599.

By Andrea Wilson, Events Blogger for SmartParenting