Family-Friendly Events on the Western Slope This Weekend

## A Weekend Full of Family Fun on the Western Slope Finding family-friendly activities on the Western Slope is easier than you think — you just need to know where to look. From free library programs to outdoor community events, here's a guide to spending a great weekend with kids in the Grand Valley. ## Mesa County Libraries: Free and Fantastic Mesa County Libraries runs some of the best free family programming in the region. Every week you'll find storytime sessions for toddlers and pre-K kids, STEM and maker activities for older children, and teen-specific events at several branch locations including: - **Central Library** (Grand Junction) — the flagship, with the most programming - **Fruita Branch Library** — great for west-side families - **Clifton Branch Library** — serving the eastern valley Saturday storytimes are a staple, and summer reading programs keep kids engaged all season long. Check their online calendar before the weekend so you can plan around sessions that fit your kids' ages. ## Outdoor Movies and Park Events Keep an eye on events at Lincoln Park in Grand Junction, which hosts community events, outdoor movies, and seasonal programming throughout the year. The open green space is also just a great place to spread a blanket and let kids run — especially with food trucks often nearby. ## Fruita's Family Scene Fruita is a genuinely kid-friendly town. The Fruita Community Center offers classes and drop-in programs, and community events downtown — especially around summer — tend to be casual, welcoming, and free. The Dinosaur Journey Museum is a Western Slope gem worth visiting if you haven't taken the kids yet. ## Craft Fairs and Festivals Throughout the year, the Grand Valley hosts craft fairs, harvest festivals, and community markets that are fun for the whole family. These events typically have kids' activity areas, local food, and a relaxed pace that makes them easy for families to navigate. ## Tips for Planning with Kids - Check eve