Playground people. We love Johnny Bregar — a Ballard dad who records kickin’ music for kiddos — here at ParentMap, but as far as we’re concerned, he doesn’t play enough live shows. On Saturday, Aug. 1, you’ll have a chance to catch a set of his sweet originals and rootsy reworkings of classic American tunes as he celebrates the release of the new Putumayo Kids Picnic Playground CD. 1 p.m. Free with zoo admission ($11–$16.50, 2 and younger free). He performs in Woodland Park Zoo’s North Meadow; the closest entrance is at North 59th Street and Evanston Avenue, Seattle. 206-548-2500, zoo.org
Taiko a-go-go. Taiko performances are a thrilling (and kid-pleasing) blend of movement and body-shaking percussion, but you usually have to shell out some bucks to see them. On Tuesday, Aug. 4 at noon, however, you can bounce to a performance by One World Taiko for free at Redmond City Hall, 15670 N.E. 85th St., Redmond. Ages 2 and older. 425-556-2316.
Star turn. Say goodbye to summer with a kids-only sleepover at Pacific Science Center! After you drop them off, they’ll get their hands nice and dirty with Ickyology activities, wander through the exhibits in the dark, and goggle at a liquid nitrogen ice cream demo. You, in the meantime, will get a breather before back-to-school madness kicks in. The Starry Summer Nights Sleepover Party is designed for kids in grades 2–8; admission is $57 ($55 for members). Register in advance — space is limited — by calling 206-443-2925 or at pacsci.org . Drop off at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 28, pick up at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29.
—Kris Collingridge
