Oh, to be a kid again!  As this long winter draws to a close, there are so many exciting things for children to do!  This weekend offers rockin’ with Mr. Ray, partying with princesses, a Spring Safari, leprechaun crafts, and a hip-hop garbage dump.  And luckily, parents are welcome to tag along!  Below are this week’s Patch picks.  Feel free to add your own suggestions in the Comments section.

1. “Mr. Ray”

Where/When: Community Congregational Church, 200 Hartshorn Dr, Short Hills; Saturday at 11am

Why Go?  Ray Anderson, a.k.a. Mr. Ray, is the featured children’s performer at the Millburn Co-op Nursery School’s annual fundraiser. Mr. Ray plays what is known as kindie rock, indie music for kids that is loved by parents as much as their kids.  His songs will educate, inspire and entertain the entire family.

There will also be a light refreshments sale.

Pricing:  $12 for adults and children 2 and older.  They can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling Jody Miller at (973) 218-1615.

2. Wake Up To a Royal Princess Breakfast!  

Where/When: Imagine That!  4 Vreeland Rd, Florham Park;  Saturday at 9:45am

Why Go?  Your child will be enchanted by a breakfast with beautiful princesses: Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Belle! Children will take home a princess photo-frame keepsake, too. A special event for prince and princess alike!  Tiaras, crowns and ballgowns welcome! Remember to bring your camera.

Pricing:  child: $13.99   adult: $10.99    Price includes breakfast.  Call (973) 966-8000 to RSVP and save your place. If you pay at the door, seats are not guaranteed and pricing is $14.99 per child and $11.99 per adult. Price includes admission to the museum, you may stay and play all day!

3. Traditions of Ireland Craft for Kids

Where/When : Liberty Hall Museum , 1003 Morris Ave, Union; Saturday 10am to 1pm

Why Go?  Irish eyes will be smiling when they see the wonderful leprechaun centerpiece that you and your child will create. A tour of the museum is included.  Recommended for ages 7-12.

Pricing: $10 per child includes museum admission.  Reservations required by calling 908-527-0400.

4. Spring Safari

Where/When: Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland; Saturday 10:30am – 12pm

Why Go?  Children in grades K through 5 can explore the wooded wetland just before the arrival of Spring!  Learn which birds are back from winter vacation, if any flowers have bloomed yet, and which plant can melt snow!  Boots are recommended!

Pricing: $5 members, $7 non-members.  Advance registration is required, call 973.226.6082.

5. The Garbage Can-tata  

Where/When: Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts, 10 Durand Rd, Maplewood; Friday at 7pm, Saturday at 11am and 2pm, Sunday at 2pm

Why Go?  The Strollers of Maplewood present the family musical THE GARBAGE CAN-tata where a garbage dump comes to hip-hopping life while teaching the three R’s – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.  The run includes a GREEN FEST on Saturday, March 12^th  at 12:30pm with eco-friendly workshops for the entire family.

Pricing: Show is $7;  Show & Green Fest together are $10; Green Fest alone is $5.  Call 973-761-8453 or visit  Buy Tickets