Calling All Movie Buffs - Opelika is Film Begins This Week

How much of a movie buff are you? Can you figure out the answers to this infographic? 

The answers are... 

The Dread Pirate Roberts/Westley from The Princess Bride, Mary Poppins from Mary Poppins, and Mr. Fox from The Fantastic Mr. Fox. 

Do you know what they all have in common? 

They’re characters from the movies that Opelika is Film is putting on this summer!

Beginning this Thursday, June 26, Opelika is Film, sponsored by Cottonseed Studios and Opelika Main Street, is putting on three summer films on the Train Depot Lawn in downtown Opelika after sundown. Admission is $1 for adults and free for children under sixteen, so whether you’re looking for a date night idea or something for the whole family to enjoy, Opelika Film Night is for you! 

The first movie is The Princess Bride on Thursday, June 26, 2014. The movie starts at sunset, but there will be plenty of activities, including Frisbee, beginning at 6 p.m. Pack up your lawn chair or a blanket, grab dinner from your favorite downtown restaurant, and settle in to watch the Dread Pirate Roberts battle everything from giants, an angry Sicilian and Rodents of Unusual Size in order to win the hand of his fair Princess Buttercup. 

 The second movie will be Mary Poppins on Thursday, July 17, and the third movie will be The Fantastic Mr. Fox on August 13. 

For more information, visit the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/opelikaisfilm or call Opelika Main Street at 334.745.0466. 

See you there!

Find Your Flavor - Farmer's Markets in Auburn & Opelika

Red, plump strawberries. Greener than green zucchinis. Sweet, golden honey. Local, fresh, delicious produce everywhere you turn. Welcome to summertime in Alabama – the season of farmer’s markets.

Auburn and Opelika are home to many farmers markets, some seasonal and others year round. 

Alabama has more than 48,500 farms throughout the state, covering about 9 million acres. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, farmers markets have some of the freshest and best produce around because the produce is grown close to where you live. As a result, you have access to more fruits and vegetables at the peak of the growing season, and it’ll taste better because it hasn’t been sitting in a supermarket! You also help the community grow, as locally-owned retailers (including farmers) return more than three times of their sales back to the community as compared to chain competitors according to this infographic.

Here’s where you can go in Auburn and Opelika to taste the goodness for yourself.

Year-Round

These farmers markets are open year-round, and offer plenty of diversity at great prices.

Photo courtesy of Market at Blooming
Colors Facebook page.

Market at Blooming Colors / 1192 S Donahue Dr, Auburn, AL 36832 / (334) 887-0887

The Market at Blooming Colors features fresh Auburn-grown vegetables, including several pepper varieties, watermelons, vine ripened tomatoes and more. They also sell organic blueberries, sweet peaches and shelled peas among other specials! The Market at Blooming Colors is open Monday - Saturday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and from 10:00 - 6:00 on Sunday.

Parkway Farmers Market / 3829 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika, AL 36801 / (334) 737-2080

The Parkway Farmers Market, across the street from Mandarin House, is one of Auburn and Opelika’s best kept secrets. With plenty of fresh and frozen local produce and Southern favorites like fatback and okra, the Parkway Farmers Market is a must-try market. They also have seasonal plants for sale outside, and have an excellent selection of pumpkins come Halloween! The Parkway Farmers Market is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Opelika Farmers Market / 411 S. 10th St., Opelika, AL 36801 / (334) 705-0010 
Yes, Opelika has a year-round farmers market too! Found in downtown Opelika, this farmers market offers some of the freshest produce in the city. Featuring local and seasonal fruits and vegetables, be sure to stop by for your grocery shopping and to pick up a few delicious treats!


Seasonal Markets

Opelika Main Street Farmer’s Market / Lee County Courthouse Square /
(334) 745-0466

The Opelika Main Street Farmers Market begins on June 3, 2014 at 3 p.m. and goes until the end of the season. Come walk around the square each Tuesday from 3-6 p.m. to find delicious produce like heirloom tomatoes and zucchini. Vendors even sell local honey and homemade ice cream. Depending on the year's crop, the market may continue through September or until produce is depleted. Look for further updates about the end date at opelikamainstreet.com.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park / corner of Lem Morrison and Donahue / (334) 321-1603

The Market at Ag Heritage Park will open the 2014 season Thursday, May 8 at 3 p.m. Find fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables and other goods at the market every Thursday through August 21.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park was started in 2005 and in the years since has become a favorite summertime tradition for the Auburn community. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features local farmers offering seasonal, fresh-from-the-garden fruits and vegetables, as well as other delicious treats like goat cheese and beautiful cut flowers.

Summer Camps in Auburn-Opelika

Good news, parents! School is out and summer is in, which means it’s time for camp! Auburn-Opelika has dozens of summer camps available for your kids, whether they are outdoorsy, artsy or just plain antsy! Space is limited, so be sure to register soon.

The pool at the Auburn/Opelika Marriott at Grand National.

Auburn-Opelika Marriott: Soaring Summer  

If your family chooses to stay at the Auburn/Opelika Marriott at Grand National this summer, you’ll have access to the brand new adventure of Soaring Summer! Soaring Summer is part vacation, part summer camp and an all-around affordable getaway for your family. With daily activities that include shows from the Auburn University Raptor Center, pool games, hiking, campfires and live music, Camp Soaring Summer is the perfect reason why your family should consider taking your summer vacation with the Auburn-Opelika Marriott. The kickoff event for Soaring Summer is Thursday, May 8, at 5:45 p.m. with a Raptor Center show at 6 p.m.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Bill Lang at bill.lang@rtjresorts.com.

Auburn University Camps

Auburn University hosts many camps throughout the summer that appeal to many different age groups and interests. Take a look below at some of the camps offered, and be sure to visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summercamps/ 

to see more and to register.

Sports  

If it’s a sport, Auburn University has a camp for it. Check out the main website here for a full listing, but here are some of the main camps offered in June and July. Sports not listed here include tennis, volleyball, lacrosse and more.

Baseball

For the younger children, Auburn University offers the Future Tigers Youth Camp (ages 6-12) in July. For older and more skilled athletes, Auburn Baseball will host the Auburn Baseball War Eagle Exposure Camp for ages 13 through graduated high school seniors. For more information, visit http://www.collegebaseballcamps.com/tigers.

Women’s Basketball

2014 Terri Flournoy Overnight Camp (4^th-8^th grade) in June, Elite Camp (8^th-12^th) in June. For more information visit http://www.auburntigers.com/camps/aub-w-baskbl-camp.html

Football

Camps offered for grades 3^rd and up. For more information visit http://www.auburnfootballcamps.com/.

Golf

Camps offered for boys and girls from ages 9 – high school graduates. For more information visit http://www.auburngolfcamps.com/auburn-tiger-golf-camp.cfm

Soccer

Camps offered for boys and girls for many different ages and skill levels. For more information, visit http://www.auburnsoccercamp.com/.  

Swimming

Swimming camps offered through Auburn Aquatics for boys and girls of varying ages and skill levels. For more information visit http://abcsportscamps.com/auswim. 

Attendees of the Robotics Academy will learn about the emerging science of robotics.
Pictured here is South's BEST, a regional robotics competition.

Educational

Auburn University offers more than 30 educational summer programs, ranging from the hard sciences of engineering to programs like creative writing and debate. Here are a few noted programs, but a full list can be found at http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summercamps/.

Robotics Academy  

Open to rising 7^th-9^th graders, Robotics Academy is a 4-day camp (June 24-27) where students learn more about the emerging science of robotics. Working in teams, students will engage in engineering problems that will end with a competition on the last day of camp. For more information and to register, visit http://www.auburn.edu/academic/cosam/departments/outreach/programs/robotics_academy/index.htm.

World Affairs Youth Seminar (Model United Nations)

Open to rising 10^th-12^th graders, the World Affairs Youth Seminar is perfect for anyone with a passion for politics, debate and social studies. Students will represent countries and use their skills to examine real global issues that affect us today. The camp runs from July 6-11. For more information and to register, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerexperience/wa.htm.

Introduction to Cyber Security Engineering

Introduction to Cyber Security Engineer is one of four summer courses offered by Auburn University for high school juniors and seniors. Students will work in the engineering and computer science laboratories and learn the basics of investigating computer crimes. Each student will earn 2 hours of college credit. The program runs from July 6-25, and the program cost of $4,000 covers tuition, books, supplies, housing, dining and transportation. For more information and to register, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summercollege/cybersecurity.htm.

The Auburn University Theatre Program, which hosts the Musical Theatre Academy.

Arts

Auburn University offers plenty of arts camps for your budding actress, drum major, Project Runway contestant or rock star. A full list can be found at http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summercamps/.

Musical Theatre Academy  (July 6-11)

Designed for rising 9^th-12^th graders, the Musical Theatre Academy is a week-long residential workshop for dance, choir and theatre students. Students will engage in one-on-one guidance from Auburn University Department of Theatre staff and will stage a musical revue at the end of the week. Cost of the Musical Theatre Academy is $635 per person and it includes instruction, housing, meals and recreational activities for the camper. For more information and to register, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerexperience/musicaltheatre.htm.

Project Design Week  (July 13-18)

Interested in becoming a fashion designer or interior decorator? Then this is the camp for you. Project Design Week is a fun-filled camp where participants in 9^th-12th grade get to learn the ins and outs of the design industry through hands-on experience. Cost is $645 per person and includes housing, dining and all recreational activities. For more information and to register visit  http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerexperience/projectdesignweek.htm.

Guitar Workshop (June 27-29)

Designed for ages 10-18, Auburn University’s Guitar Workshop will feature guitar faculty member Joseph Ikner and other guest artists instruct musicians of all skill levels on the guitar. Program cost is $359 and includes instruction, housing, dining and recreational activities. For more information and to register, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerexperience/guitarworkshop.htm.

Auburn Parks and Recreation

Auburn Parks and Recreation offers many different summer camp options, including arts and crafts, sports and even therapeutic camps for the disabled. Check out their full listing in their brochure here on page 25! Camps include Superhero Training Camp, Fairy Princess Camp, Summer Dance Camp, and even Irish Dance Camp! Most camps are weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.auburnalabama.org/parks/Default.aspx?PageID=670.

Opelika Parks and Recreation

Opelika Parks and Recreation also offers summer camp programs for area kids, including cheer camp, tumbling camp, Art Camp and Opelika Sportsplex Day Camp! Specifics including dates and pricing can be found at http://www.opelika.org/Default.asp?ID=832&pg=Summer+Camps.

One of the presentations given by the Louise Kreher Ecology Preserve.

Forest Ecology Preserve Go Native! Summer Camp

The Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve is hosting multiple summer camps throughout the summer, with programs ranging from 1^st grade to 7^th grade! Each camp is held for one week, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Registration is $100 and includes a daily snack, activities and t-shirt. Membership with the preserve is required. Campers will learn how Alabama’s Native American people lived and prospered in the area. Campers will also learn about the native and invasive plants and animals found there through nature studies, crafts, games, hikes, and more.

The camp for 5^th-7^th graders, held from June 9 -13, is a special Hunger Games Training Camp that is designed to teach campers basic survival skills.

For more information and to register, visit http://wp.auburn.edu/preserve/forest-ecology-preserve-summer-ecology-camp-registration-begins/. 

Weekend Events: A-Day and Bo Bikes Bama (April 18-20, 2014)

If you’re visiting the loveliest village on the plains this weekend, War Eagle and welcome back Auburn alumni and family! We are so glad you’re here to enjoy A-Day with us. There is a lot going on this weekend for both visitors and residents, so be sure to check out some of these other attractions in between throwing (or watching) the pigskin! 

Friday, April 18 

Bo Bikes Bama Silent Auction
6 - 9 p.m. / Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 
Join Auburn legend Bo Jackson for a silent auction event Friday, April 18, from 6-9 p.m. at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University. Guests will be able to bid on autographed items, as well as mingle with other VIP Bo Bikes Bama riders and fans. Regular tickets are $100 and include hors d’ oeuvres, beer and wine. VIP tickets may be purchased for $250 for access to a private meet-and-greet with Jackson from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information and to purchase a ticket, click here.

AU Baseball vs. South Carolina  
6 p.m. / Plainsman Park
Can’t wait until A-Day to see your Tigers play? Come out to Plainsman Park on Friday, April 18 at 6 p.m. to watch AU Baseball take on South Carolina! The game is presented by Golden Flake, and the first 500 fans will receive a pennant courtesy of Golden Flake! Tickets are $8 and can be purchased online or at the ticket office. 

2nd Annual Spring Fling 
5 p.m. / Pay Dye's Crooked Oaks Farm and Quail Hollow Gardens, Notasulga, Ala.
Want to get away from the craziness of campus? Auburn University’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences will host its 2nd Annual Spring Fling on Friday, April 18, 2014 at Pat Dye’s famous Crooked Oaks Farm and Quail Hollow Gardens in Notasulga, Ala. Proceeds from this fundraising gala will fund scholarships, program support and educational initiatives in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. - Events, beginning at 5 p.m., include an archery exhibition; live and silent auctions; demonstrations from the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, Birds of a Feather and the Southeastern Raptor Center and dinner and dancing, with live music provided by Kidd Blue. Dinner will be provided by Conecuh Sausage and the Organized Seafood Association of Alabama. Individual tickets for Friday night’s events are $100 each and can be purchased here, at the door or by calling (334) 844-2791. 

Tiger Trail Induction 
5 p.m. / Auburn Arena
The Auburn Chamber, along with Auburn University Athletics, will induct six new members into the ranks of the Tiger Trail on Friday, April 18, 2014. New inductees include Ronnie Brown, Carnell Williams, Richard Quick, Cleve Wester, Doc Robinson and Megan Rivera. The new class of legends will officially join the ranks of 114 past Tiger Trail inductees during a reception and induction ceremony at the Auburn Arena. Each inductee will be presented with an engraved granite plaque to be placed in the sidewalk of downtown Auburn among the plaques honoring other Auburn greats. Hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar begin at 5 p.m., with the program beginning at 6 p.m. - Tickets are $25 per person and the entire community is invited to attend. For more information, call the Auburn Chamber at (334) 887-7011 or email jdodson@auburnchamber.com. 

Saturday, April 19 

A-Day 
2 p.m. (Activities start at 9 a.m.) / Jordan-Hare Stadium
The 2014 football season is officially here! A-Day begins at Jordan-Hare stadium at 2 p.m. Be sure to come early though – there will be a pregame punt and pass contest, locker room tours, an easter egg hunt with Aubie, Fan Fest and more! Tickets are $5 for the general public and free for Auburn students with an Auburn Ignited card. More information about the day’s events and parking can be found here. War Eagle! 

War Eagle Track Invitational
11 a.m. / Hutsell-Rosen Track
Admission is free to the War Eagle Track Invitational at the Hutsell-Rosen Track on Friday, April 18 and Saturday, April 19. Events begin at 2 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. on Saturday. Here’s a .pdf with the tentative list of track events.

 AU Baseball vs. South Carolina 
4 p.m. / Plainsman Park
Once you’ve watched some football, come on over to Plainsman Park to watch some baseball! The AU Baseball team will play South Carolina for the second time in the series at 4 p.m. The game is presented by Verizon Wireless, and the first 500 fans will receive a free phone charger car adapter courtesy of Verizon Wireless! Tickets are $8 and can be purchased online or at the ticket office. 

Bo Bikes Bama 
7 a.m. / Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art
Bo knows what’s best for his community. On Saturday, April 19, Bo Jackson and hundreds of other riders will bike 22 or 62 miles through Auburn and neighboring counties to raise money for the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund. You can register to ride with Bo and other VIP riders here. The rides begin and end at the Jule Collins Museum of Fine Art. Registration is $40 for the 22 mile ride and $60 for the 62 mile ride. You must provide your own bike and a helmet is required. 

Waverly Old 280 Boogie 
11 a.m. / Standard Deluxe
Time to boogie! The Waverly Old 280 Boogie will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2014 on the grounds of Standard Deluxe from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Musical artists include the Pine Hill Haints, Lydia Loveless and more! Kids get in free. Adult tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. For more information, click here. 

33rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt  
10 a.m. / Kiesel Park
Good news – the Easter Bunny is stopping at Kiesel Park this weekend! More than 30,000 eggs will dot four acres of Kiesel Park this weekend as Auburn Parks and Recreation hosts its 33rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Kiesel Park Saturday morning! The easter egg hunt starts at 10:15 a.m., so be sure to arrive early to find your child’s age group (age groups range from 3 years and under to 12 years old) and to get pictures with the Easter Bunny. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Auburn will be selling hot dogs and hamburgers, so bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic after the hunt. Proceeds from the sales will benefit needy families throughout the community. This event is free to the public and sponsored by Wells Fargo. For more information, click here.

Baby Chicks at Wrapsody 
9/10 a.m. / Wrapsody ( 112 N. College St.)
It’s Easter Season at Wrapsody! All ages are welcome Friday and Saturday to play with baby chicks and ducks to help spread the spring cheer! Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday. 




Boogie Some More Party 
9 p.m. / Mama Mocha's
Didn’t get enough boogie-ing in at the 280 Boogie? The band Have Gun, Will Travel will be performing during the “after party” for the Old 280 Boogie at Mama Mocha’s on Saturday at 9 p.m. Presented by This is American Music and Cottonseed Studios. Tickets are $5. To RSVP or for more information, visit the Facebook event page here.

Sunday, April 20 

AU Baseball vs. South Carolina
1 p.m. / Plainsman Park
End your jam-packed weekend with your last chance of the weekend to watch AU Baseball play South Carolina! It’s Family Sunday, so if you buy three tickets you get one free! The team will also sign autographs at the left field wall after the game, and kids 12 and under will be let onto the field to run the bases after the game.

What Does Your Favorite Gameday Tradition Say About You?

A-Day is just around the corner, and that only means one thing - football season is coming! 
And with football season comes tailgating, Toomer's lemonade, seeing the eagle fly and watching your Auburn Tigers dominate the field once again. Choose your favorite gameday tradition and find out below what it says about you - you might be surprised!

1. Rolling Toomer's Corner 
You’re fun, driven and competitive (but in a good way.) Nothing feels as good to you as winning does, and if it’s your Auburn Tigers, even better. You’re most likely to be found throwing the first couple rolls at Toomer’s corner, then snapping photos with you and your friends under the hanging strands, or lining up first to get into the game to get good seats. You’re most likely to be found in a game day score shirt or national championship shirt, or painting up/holding signs with your friends. (Like these kids.) 

2. Getting a Toomer’s Lemonade 
You’re the nostalgic type. Talk of Auburn makes you wish you were back in the good old days. When you come back for game days, you try to relive as much of your time here as possible (including grabbing a sweet Toomer’s lemonade) and remarking on how much the campus and downtown have changed. You believe in Auburn and love it, but cherish the “old” Auburn you remember. (Does anyone hang out in Foy Union anymore?) That doesn’t stop you from having fun, though. You’re most likely to be found at a tailgate and then the game – you wouldn’t miss it for the world. 

3. The eagle flying before the game 
You’re a family man (or woman!) You have very close relationships with the people in your life. Nothing beats hearing your voice join in unison with thousands of other Auburn fans as you watch the eagle soar over the stadium. You’re most likely to be found at the Raptor Center before the game, or walking around campus checking out the tailgates and reveling in the feeling of being a part of Auburn family. You like football season, but the best part of it to you isn’t the game – it’s celebrating Auburn as a whole. 

4. Tiger Walk 
Your middle name is school spirit. You’re fun, dedicated to Auburn and love Auburn football more than anything – in fact, it’s likely that “Auburn” was your first word. You’re bedecked in AU face stickers, your brightest orange and deepest navy, shaker in hand, yelling WAR EAGLE at the top of your lungs. You’re most likely to be found waiting for Tiger Walk to begin (in hopes of getting close enough for a high five from the team) or seeking out Aubie for a picture. 

5. Tailgating 
You’re the life of the party. You know how to take a step back from work/school and just relax, which makes your tailgate the best place to be (no work talk allowed!) You’re more likely to be found reliving your Greek days on Old Row or engaging in a pickup game of football on the grass in between tailgates or relaxing under the shade. You’re more likely to be found in a bright orange Auburn t-shirt, unless you’re feeling fancy - then it’s an Auburn button down and khakis or a gameday dress. 

6. Singing the alma mater after the game 
You’re a traditionalist. You value your Auburn education and overall experience more than our football record, but that doesn’t mean football doesn’t get you excited. You’re more likely to be found in the Special Collections of RBD or grabbing a quiet drink at Avondale Bar and Tap Room. You’re also less likely to be found in a “Gus bus” shirt – more likely a vintage Aubie tee or an old college shirt from when you went to Auburn. 

7. Chanting "Roll Tide" 
You’re a loyal and dedicated fan, family member and friend. Your taste in teams could be better, but no worries – there’s room in the Auburn Family for you, too. (If you can stand to ditch the houndstooth.)

Spring Break "Stay-Cation"

Well it’s finally here – next week is the week of break that sends your kids into jumps of joy as they relish an entire week away from school. Dreams of adventure and swim trunks dance in their heads, and some may be lucky enough to jet off (with parents in tow) to an out-of-town vacation.
But you don’t have to leave Auburn-Opelika to have some spring break fun and quality family time! Here’s what’s going on next week for you and your kids to enjoy:


Monday, March 24
Superhero Academy
Auburn Public Library
2 p.m.
Do you have a Wonderwoman or Superman living under your roof? Take them to the Auburn Public Library on Monday, March 24, at 2 p.m. for Superhero Academy. They’ll learn all the super-skills required to put on their capes and save the world, all while improving their reading skills. Intended for children in grades K-5. Registration required - call Youth Services at (334) 501-3196.

Tuesday, March 25
AU Baseball vs. Kennesaw State
Plainsman Park
6 p.m.
Take your tykes out to the ball game and watch the Auburn baseball team take on Kennesaw State at 6 p.m. in Plainsman Park. Tickets are $8.

Superhero Movie Matinee
Auburn Public Library
3 p.m.
The Auburn Public Library will be showing a superhero film at 3 p.m. Snacks will be provided.
Intended for children in grades K-5.

Spring Break Camp (March 25-26)

Louis Kreher Ecology Preserve
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Spring into nature with the Louis Kreher Ecology Preserve spring break camp! Campers will learn about blossoming Alabama plants, busy bees, animals and more through hiking, fishing and gardening activities. Registration is $20 for members and $25 for non-members per child per day. For more information, click here. Camp intended for 1st-6th grade children.

Discovery Hike
Louis Kreher Ecology Preserve
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
The Discovery Hike is a hike designed for parents and kids to learn more about nature together. It’s a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors and fit in some quality time with nature. Guided hikes are free to the public. For more information, click here. Hikes intended for children ages 5-12 accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Wednesday, March 26
AU Baseball vs. Kennesaw State
Plainsman Park
3 p.m.
If you have a future Babe Ruth (or Bo Jackson!) practicing his tee ball swings in your backyard, take an afternoon to enjoy a game of baseball as the Auburn baseball team goes against Alabama State. Admission: $8.

Dr. Magical Balloons
Auburn Public Library
2 p.m.
What is better than books and balloons? On Wednesday, March 26, Dr. Magical Balloons will be at the Auburn Public Library along with storyteller Dewayne Reynolds. Intended for grades K-5.

Thursday, March 27
Nature Walk
Louis Kreher Ecology Preserve
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
If your young nature enthusiast is a little too old for the Discovery Hike or Spring Break camp, the Nature Walk is a perfect fit. A guided hour-long hike with other nature lovers will introduce your child to the beauty and diversity of the nature in Alabama. Guided hikes are free to the public. For more information, click here.

AU Baseball vs. Missouri
Plainsman Park
6:30 p.m.
It’s the SEC matchup of the month as the Auburn Tigers baseball team battles the Mizzou Tigers at Plainsman Park. Admission is $8.

Writing Fairy Tales

Auburn Public Library

4:30 p.m. 

Join the AU Student Writers as they share tips and help young authors develop their creative

writing techniques. Intended for grades 6-8.

Super Heroes Teen Café 
Auburn Public Library
6:30 p.m. 

Prizes for best (and appropriate!) comic-con style super hero costumes will be awarded, and games and refreshments will be provided. Intended for grades 8-12.

Friday, March 28
AU Men’s Tennis vs. Kentucky
Yarbrough Tennis Center
2 p.m.
If your child dreams of becoming the next Serena or Venus Williams or Roger Federer, take them to the AU Tennis vs. Kentucky match on Friday, March 28 at 2 p.m.

AU Baseball vs. Missouri, Game #2
Plainsman Park
6 p.m.
Part 2 of the SEC matchup of the month as the Auburn Tigers baseball team battles the Mizzou Tigers at Plainsman Park. Admission is $8.

Saturday, March 29

Base CAMP - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Chewacla State Park 
12 p.m.
The Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers host a free Saturday ride every week for kids of any age to learn how to mountain bike. There is also a specific ride for kids 13 years of age and older. For more information, visit www.camp-sorba.org or email club president Philip Darden at camp.sorba@gmail.com.

AU Baseball vs. Missouri, Game #3
Plainsman Park
Noon
Part 3 of the SEC matchup of the month as the Auburn Tigers baseball team battles the Mizzou Tigers at Plainsman Park. Admission is $8.

Keep Opelika Beautiful Garden in the Park
Opelika Municipal Park
8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Keep Opelika Beautiful Garden in the Park is a fun arts-and-crafts festival, with presentations and performances by local bands and seminars by groups like Opelika Parks and Recreation pottery. This event is very kid-friendly, with many activities just for kids like the Rocky Brook Rocket. For more information, click here.

Junior Adventure Challenge
Chewacla State Park
Packet pick-up: 3 p.m. (changed due to weather)
The Junior Adventure Challenge is a fun obstacle course that will have your kid splashing through mud puddles, climbing over hay bales and running through beautiful Chewacla State Park. For more information and to register, click here.

Legomania!
Auburn Public Library
9 a.m. – 4 p.m., ages 4-12.
Build up the building blocks of reading skills with LEGO blocks! The Auburn Public Library is hosting its weekly Legomania! From 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 29. 

Sunday, March 30
C.A.M.P. Mountain Biking Skills Clinic
Chewacla State Park
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers will be hosting Eddie Freyer, Level 2 Certified Mountain Bike Instructor for a skills clinic! This clinic is open to all bikers ages 12 and up, and is free to the first 15 people who sign up! (C.A.M.P. members will get priority - but it's easy to join! Email camp.sorba@gmail.com).  Lunch will be provided. For more information, click here.

Still looking for more ideas?

Here are some timeless staycation ideas that can be done anytime, whether it’s spring break or an open weekend.

1. Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel and Conference Center
The Marriott Hotel at Grand National is very family-friendly and is perfect for an overnight stay for a springtime change of scenery. The hotel boasts an indoor pool, a spectacular outdoor pool and a game room for the kids. Call (334) 741-9292 now for rates or visit their website here.

2. Camping/Hiking/Biking in Chewacla
Chewacla State Park is a great choice for a spring break family outing. With multiple hiking trails for all ages and expertise, opportunities to mountain bike (visit www.camp-sorba.org for more information) and camping options, Chewacla State Park is always a good idea.

3. Laser Tag & Bowling
Auburn-Opelika has great options for indoor recreation, too. AMF Lanes (website), located on Opelika Road, is Auburn’s local bowling alley. Grab a few friends, have some pizza and tackle the lanes (gutters or not.)
If your kids desire more thrill, take them to Cyberzone (website) in downtown Opelika for some high-intensity laser tag! 

What are your spring break plans? Let us know in the comments! 

By guest blogger Rachel Pipan

Skip into Spring

It’s finally here – the beautiful twilight of weather between January and June that brings us cool breezes and warm temperatures.
It won’t be long before the sweltering summer sets in, so here’s a few ways you can enjoy the sweet sunshine of spring in scenic Auburn-Opelika.

1.Hit the links
The Grand National grounds are nothing short of gorgeous, especially on a crisp spring day. Take an afternoon and enjoy one of the three courses Grand National has to offer. Afterward, have a relaxing lunch on the porch as you gaze over the grounds and lake.


 2.Picnic in the park
Just because Valentine’s Day is past doesn’t mean you can’t have a romantic date. Pack a picnic lunch and a blanket and grab your sweetheart - the soft rolling hills of Kiesel Park underneath the trees are perfect for this sweet surprise. You can also take your date to Town Creek Park and enjoy your lunch by the pond. Either way, you’ll both soak up the sunshine during a luxurious afternoon.


 3.Hike & Bike in Chewacla
Chewacla State Park is a perfect getaway for outdoor activities. Now that the weather is warmer, take the Mountain Laurel Trail to Chewacla Falls and dip your toes in! If you’re the adventurous type, grab your mountain bike and tackle the trails the Central Alabama Pedalers have been working on.


4.Take a downtown stroll
Enjoying the outdoors doesn’t always mean you have to be out in nature’s thickets. Take a scenic stroll through Auburn or Opelika’s scenic and historic downtown to put some spring in your step. Enjoy a Toomer’s lemonade (or ice cream!) at the end of your jaunt in downtown Auburn on Samford’s lawn, or stop in for a pop from the Overall Co. in downtown Opelika and enjoy it on their rooftop patio!

How do you celebrate spring in Auburn-Opelika? Let us know in the comments!


Written by guest blogger Rachel Pipan