Play dates

It's that time of year again. School's over, and after months of being couped up in classrooms, the kids are itching to get out and explore. So why not let them learn while they're at it? These fun, affordable activities will help them understand the world around them — in nature, in animals, in other cultures and in their own hometown.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Venture Outdoors Festival 2006

l What: CELEBRATE OUTDOOR RECREATION WITH MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP. THE FESTIVAL INCLUDES A 4.2-MILE TWILIGHT RACE/WALK, FOOD, LIVE MUSIC AND RECREATION 101 CLINICS.

Ages: ALL AGES WELCOME

Where: CANYON RIM PARK, 2900 E. 3100 SOUTH

When: JUNE 17, 3-9 P.M.

How much: FREE

Information: AIMEE MCCONKIE 466-0686; WWW.MILLCREEKOUTDOORS.ORG

Draper Trails Day

What: JOIN IN 16 DIFFERENT TRAILS EVENTS FOR ALL AGES, INCLUDING HIKING, BIKING, RUNNING, HORSEBACK RIDING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING. HIGHLIGHTS ARE THE CHILDREN'S TRAIL TREASURE HUNT AND FREE ARENA HORSEBACK RIDES FOR THE KIDS.

Ages: ALL AGES WELCOME

Where: ANDY BALLARD EQUESTRIAN PARK, DRAPER

When: JUNE 3, 7 A.M.-4 P.M.

How much: FREE, EXCEPT ENTRANCE FEES TO RACES AND $40 FOR HORSEBACK RIDING

Information: GLEN SISAM, 571-6954; WWW.DRAPERTRAILSDAY.ORG

Junior Ranger Program

What: RANGERS HELP KIDS GET TO KNOW THE PARK IN A FUN, HANDS-ON ENVIRONMENT, AND KIDS COME HOME WITH A BADGE AND CERTIFICATE.

Ages: 6-10

Where: ROCK CLIFF NATURE CENTER, JORDANELLE STATE PARK

When: SATURDAYS BETWEEN MEMORIAL DAY AND LABOR DAY, 11 A.M.-NOON

How much: $7 FEE TO GET INTO THE PARK

Information: 435-782-3030; WWW.STATEPARKS.UTAH.GOV

IN YOUR BACK YARD

South Ogden Days