Be sure to check the “event details” link for up-to-date information from the organizers.
I send a “things to do” email every Sunday night to tons of moms in the Springfield, Mo. area. It’s full of free, often outdoorsy ideas that always match the season we’re in.
Monday and Tuesday, April 13-14 — Library storytimes that work for working parents. These cozy evening storytime designed for infants through age 6, are perfect for families with working schedules. Kids come in their pajamas for stories, songs, and simple activities in a relaxed, end-of-day setting. A sweet option for winding down before bedtime. Monday, 6–6:30 p.m. (Library Center, Story Hour Room); Tuesday, 6:30–7:15 p.m. (Library Station, Story Hour Room).
Tuesday, April 14 & Thursday, April 16 — Fresh air, outdoor play, and stories. An outdoor library storytime for infants through age 6 that brings together books, songs, and simple activities in a park setting—basically the best of both worlds if your kids love being outside. I went to the Republic one at Miller Park last year and it was such a hit (they had a bubble machine and music). I haven’t tried the Strafford version yet, but I’m curious. If you go to that one, report back! Tuesday, 10–11 a.m. (Miller Park, Republic); Thursday, 10–11 a.m. (Howard Smith Community Park, Strafford).
Wednesday, April 15 — For artsy, outdoorsy teens. A creative, hands-on evening for teens ages 12–17, where participants use paint markers to design insect-inspired artwork to take home. After guided instruction, they’ll have time to create a second piece of their own design. It’s a nice mix of art and nature, with a social, drop-off format so teens can connect with peers while learning something new. Maybe a good date night evening while kiddo is away? 6–8 p.m. (Springfield Conservation Nature Center). Registration required. Event details.
Thursday, April 16 — Earth Day learning for littles. A reduce-reuse-recycle themed storytime for little ones (infants through age 6), with books and songs focused on caring for the planet, followed by a simple craft using recycled materials. 10–10:30 a.m. (Midtown Carnegie Branch Library, Children’s Department). Free. Event details.
Speaking of Earth Day…
EARLY HEADS UP: Wednesday, April 22 — Massive river clean-up needs help. A hands-on way to celebrate Earth Day by helping clean up Lake Springfield and the James River. After a brief safety talk, volunteers head out for shoreline cleanup, paddling routes, or (for experienced folks) a longer river float cleanup. It’s a meaningful way to get outside and give back — just plan for a more structured, volunteer-style event. 1–5 p.m.; check-in begins at noon (Lake Springfield Park and Boathouse). Free; registration required. Event details.
Thursday, April 16 & Saturday, April 18 — Nathanael Greene craft, story and wander. A sweet, short storytime designed with preschoolers in mind, featuring a spring-themed read-aloud and a simple craft (paper flower crowns). It’s held at the Botanical Center, which makes it extra fun because you can linger after and wander the gardens, explore nearby trails, or just let the kids roam a bit. 10–10:30 a.m. (Springfield Botanical Gardens, 2400 S. Scenic Ave.). Free; no registration required. Event details.
Friday, April 17 & Saturday, April 18 — The Narnia Faire. Step through the wardrobe into a fully immersive, family-friendly Narnia experience set at a real-life castle-like venue, complete with stone architecture and tucked-away grounds that make it feel extra magical from the moment you arrive. Kids can meet kings and queens, chat with “talking animals,” go on quests, and earn prizes, while parents browse artisan vendors or just soak in the storybook setting. It’s one of those events that truly leans into the fantasy (and the setting absolutely helps). 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Chateau Charmant). Tickets required. Event details.
Friday, April 17 & Saturday, April 18 — Used Media Warehouse Sale. A two-day dig through vinyl, CDs, cassettes, VHS, and more—perfect for families leaning a little more analog (or just ready to escape the algorithm for a minute). Expect plenty of crates to flip through and solid deals for building a music or movie collection the old-school way. 12–6 p.m. both days (Heavy Heads Records). Free. Event details.
Saturday, April 18 — Lit-Fest! A literature-themed morning at the Farmers Market with a little something for everyone—family storytime, a blackout poetry station, local authors, and hands-on activities woven in with your usual market stroll. It’s an easy way to mix books and fresh air (and maybe a pastry or two) while supporting local creatives. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. (Farmers Market of the Ozarks). Free. Event details.
Saturday, April 18 — Rosebud’s Cottage Spring Market. A big, bustling spring market with 80+ vendors, boutique finds, home décor, and plenty of food trucks to keep you fueled while you browse. There’s a full kid zone with bounce houses, a petting zoo, and face painting, but this one could also double as a solid mom outing (coffee in hand, wandering booths without anyone asking for snacks every 3 minutes). 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Rosebud’s Cottage). Free admission and parking. Event details.
Saturday, April 18 — Super Smash Bros. tournament for older teens. A high-energy afternoon for teens 13+ to compete, hang out, and connect over Smash Bros., whether they’re seasoned players or just in it for fun. Expect snacks, prizes, and a lively, come-and-go tournament feel (with bragging rights on the line). Bring your own controller if you have one. 1:30–6:30 p.m. (Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library, Community Room). Free. Event details.
Saturday, April 18 — Spring Indoor Garage Sale. A classic treasure-hunt morning with dozens of booths all under one roof — no weather worries, just browsing for deals. Expect a mix of household items, clothes, and hidden gems at great prices. A good early outing to wander with coffee and no agenda. 7 a.m.–1 p.m. (Ozark Community Center). Free admission. Event details.
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