Just a few weeks more of winter (we hope). While we're waiting for blooms to bud, here are some options to get everybody out of the house — from a famous fat cat and airborne stunt dogs to a vast new Lego attraction and one final visit by a beloved circus.
Garfield: The Musical with Cattitude (Feb. 3-18, Walnut Street Theatre). It's Garfield's birthday, but nobody remembers; based on Jim Davis' comic strip. Walnut Street Theatre for Kids continues the feline theme with Skippyjon Jones (March 31-April 22), based on Judy Schachner's books about the imaginative kitten. (215-574- 3550, walnutstreettheatre.org/season/kids.php)
iLuminate (Feb. 10-11, Merriam Theater). The dance troupe in glow-in-the-dark suits is, literally, electrifying. Also coming to the Merriam: The puppy rescue heroes of Paw Patrol Live! (March 3-5), a fave with the preschool set. (215-893-1999, kimmelcenter.org)
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus (Feb. 16-20, Wells Fargo Center). The Greatest Show on Earth, closing up shop after this tour, presents its final spectacle in Philly. (844-854-1450, wellsfargo.centerphiladelphia.com)
Miss Nelson is Missing (Feb. 25-26, Bristol Riverside Theatre). Based on the books by Harry Allard, this musical has the wild pupils of Room 207 searching to find their sweet teacher when a strict sub shows up. Also coming to Bristol: The Berenstain Bears Live! (April 22-23), in which the furry family deals with travails of home life. (215-785-0100, brtstage.org)
The Fantastic World of Dan Yaccarino (March 11-May 14, Please Touch Museum). Along with original art from the New Jersey children's book author and illustrator, you'll have the chance to step inside interactive experiences inspired by the art. (Cook in Henry and Elliebelly's kitchen!) (215-581-3181, pleasetouchmuseum.org)
Play-A-Palooza (March 25, Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse). The venerable play space opens with this annual ticketed party for ages 10 and under and their caregivers. (215-765-4325, smithplayground.org)
MOVE! with Lolly and Yoyo (March 26, Central Library of the Free Library). The authors discuss their book on imaginative play, with plenty of opportunities to roar like a dinosaur, row a canoe, and spin on a flying saucer. There will be things for the kids to do, too. (215-686- 5322, freelibrary.org)
Legoland Discovery Center (opening early April, Plymouth Meeting Mall). Lovers of the little plastic bricks (that would be, well, everybody) are sure to flock to this attraction featuring a Lego ninja challenge, a Lego train ride, a Lego 4D movie theater, and many themed play areas. (philadelphia.legolanddiscoverycenter.com)
The Light Princess (April 5 to May 28, Arden Theatre). Tony Lawton's musical is based on George MacDonald's book about a teen unable to touch the ground or to have any feelings for others. (215-922-1122, ardentheatre.org)
The Stunt Dog Experience (May 5, West Chester University). Chris Perondi's rescued pooches perform amazing feats of aerial and athletic derring-do. (610-436-2266, wcupatix.com)
Philadelphia International Children's Festival (May 18-20, Annenberg Center). Circus, theater, storytelling, and music, plus an outdoor Fun Zone with crafts, activities, and performances. (215-898-3900, annenbergcenter.org)
