Take a Spin at the Zoo’s Ice Skating Party
Go thrifting to put together a funky outfit, then strap on your ice skates. The Memphis Zoo is hosting three Happy Zoo Year parties to celebrate the last week of the rink. If you come dressed in a costume that captures the ‘70s, ‘80s, or ‘90s (each night has a specific theme), you could win a prize during their fabulous costume contest. Skate to jams by DJ Crumbz, then swing by Teton Trek for food and light refreshments (including tasty adult beverages). See you at the rink!
DATES:Thursday, January 2: Groove to the ‘70sFriday, January 3: Rock to the ‘80sSaturday, January 4: Jump, Jump to the ‘90s
The party runs from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Skating is $6 per person. Ferris wheel is $6. • Parking is free.
Explore the Outdoors at Dixon Gallery and Gardens
If you want to get young kids excited about gardening and the outdoors, check out Dixon Gallery and Gardens newest program, Green Thumbs. Designed for children ages 7 to 10, participants will follow special Garden Quests that explore the environment and nature. The group meets on Saturdays from 2 to 3 p.m. from January 4th through March 22nd. Reservations required, as space is limited. $40/per month for members, $50/nonmembers. • For more information, go to Dixon.org.
Get Smart at an Optional School Open House
The Optional Schools will be hosting a series of open houses this month. Parents are encouraged to visit schools you are interested in and learn more about their program offerings. Each school has specific eligibility criteria. Optional schools function as a school-within-a-school, offering specialized curriculum within individual focuses. Any Shelby County student can apply for one of the 44 Optional School programs. • Note: The first day to pick up bar-coded applications is January 22nd. For a complete list of locations and times, go to memphisparent.com or scsk12.org/Student-Choice_Transfers
Summon a Ninja for Opera Memphis’ The Mikado
In celebration of the upcoming performance of The Mikado, Opera Memphis is hosting a Costume Night. It takes place at the Germantown Performing Arts Center on Friday, January 17th, at 6 p.m.; the comic opera by Gilbert and Sullivan starts at 7:30 p.m. Come dressed as your favorite anime, manga, or video game character to get into the spirit of the Mikado; costumes will be judged at intermission, J-Pop dance party for after the show. And don’t forget the Family Night performance on Tuesday, January 14th, with oragami and other fun activities before the show. Gilbert and Sullivan’s topical satire, Mikado combines elements of traditional Japanese productions with a generous dose of Japanese pop culture. • Tickets: $33-$74, kids 75 percent off. Call 257-3100 for details.
Get Cultured at the Japanese Festival
From origami and traditional dances to martial arts and calligraphy demonstrations, this popular festival gives visitors a glimpse into popular traditions of Japan. It takes place Saturday, January 18th, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Germantown Performing Arts Center. The Japanese-American Society of Tennessee joins Opera Memphis in hosting this festival.