From energizing music sessions and hands-on STEAM activities to an essential reminder to make your voice heard at the polls this Tuesday, this week is packed with fantastic ways for local families to connect and explore. In this edition, we shine our spotlight on the wonderful (and completely free!) Stay and Play program at Williams Bay Elementary, kick off the holiday season with festive shopping nights at Terra Barn Collective, and highlight an upcoming can't-miss deal with free admission at the Milwaukee County Zoo this Saturday. Plus, parents looking for some well-deserved time away from the kids can look forward to mid-week swing dancing at Horticulture Hall or a laugh-filled, free comedy show on Friday night at the Lake Geneva House of Music!

Weekly Add to Calendar

Get Moving! Music and Movement - Enjoy a morning of music, dancing, and movement for toddlers and preschoolers. This session is geared toward children ages 2–5. More Info
• 8:30–9:00 AM
• Life Choices, Burlington

Mama Meetup by Nurtured Mamas - Nurtured Mamas hosts its Mama Meetup at Matheson Memorial Library. Join the group for its weekly Monday gathering.
• 9:00–10:00 AM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Baby To Three, Come Wiggle With Me! - Babies, toddlers, and their grown-ups are invited to a special storytime and dance party. Enjoy music, movement, and stories while getting to know other families with young children. More Info
• 10:15–10:45 AM
• Delavan Municipal Building, Delavan

Paws to Read - Families can interact with visiting shelter animals, listen to stories, and read to furry friends in a designated space. This program is sponsored by Lakeland Animal Shelter. More Info
• 4:00–4:45 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Vote - Make time to vote on Election Day. Review your ballot and locate your polling place before heading out. More Info
• 7:00 AM–8:00 PM
• Your assigned polling place

Stay and Play - Williams Bay School District offers a free weekly play program for infants through age four, with no registration required. Parents and guardians stay with their children for activities that encourage play and social development. More Info
• 8:30–9:30 AM
• Williams Bay Elementary School Williams Bay

Lakeland Momco - Gather for hot breakfast, coffee, and conversation centered on the topic “Word Over Worry.” Child care with fun activities are provided so moms can enjoy two hours together.
• 9:00–11:00 AM
• Lakeland Community Church, Lake Geneva

Mornings with Mommy - A theme based playgroup for kids 0-5. Not just for Moms, but any caregiver looking to give their kids the opportunity to explore and learn through multiple activities. More Info
• 9:30–11:30 AM
• St John’s, Mukwonago (Lower Level)

Family Storytime with Miss Esther - Join Miss Esther for dancing, a story, and fun at the library. This week's gathering takes place at Matheson Memorial Library. More Info
• 9:30–10:30 AM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Mommy Meet Up - Join the weekly Mommy Meet Up at the Lions Club Field House. Weather permitting, the group meets at Never Say Never Park in Delavan instead.
• 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Never Say Never Park, Delavan, weather permitting

Storytime with Miss Katie - Join Miss Katie for stories, songs, and fun at Fontana Public Library. This weekly fall storytime welcomes little readers to the library. More Info
• 10:00–10:30 AM
• Fontana Public Library

Storytime and Crafting - Offering fun fall and winter storytime and crafts in the book nook, hosted by Alicia. This week - The Leaf Thief with a leafy craft, PLEASE RSVP. More Info
• 10:00–1:00 PM
• Lakeside Books, Lake Geneva

Crafternoon - Teen Art Club - Teen art lovers are invited to the library for an afternoon of crafting. The club features a new craft project each Tuesday. More Info
• 4:00–5:00 PM
• Barrett Memorial Library, Williams Bay

Kind Hearts Strong Voices Bullying Prevention Workshop - Children ages 5–10 can build confidence and learn empowerment skills through activities, crafts, and opportunities to make new friends. Dinner and drinks are included, and the cost is $15 per person. More Info
• 5:00–6:15 PM
• Healing Roots Counseling Services

Toddler Open Gym: Veterans Day - This Toddler Open Gym gathering honors the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. Families will take a moment to recognize veterans and the sacrifices made by them and their families. More Info
• 9:00–10:30 AM
• First Lutheran Church, Elkhorn

Baby Lapsit Storytime - Babies ages 0–23 months and their caregivers can enjoy a snuggly story, bouncy songs, and play while building early literacy skills. Older siblings may attend, but books, songs, and activities focus on infants. More Info
• 9:30–10:15 AM
• Life Choices, Burlington, WI

STEAM Activities - Homeschoolers and families with children of all ages are invited to drop by the Storyroom. Experiment, experience, and explore through STEAM activities. More Info
• 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Homeschool Teen Hangout - Middle and high school students ages 10 and older are invited to explore the library's Create Space. Families and younger siblings can enjoy STEAM activities in the Storyroom at the same time. More Info
• 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Storytime - Join Miss Monica for stories and songs at Barrett Memorial Library. This weekly Wednesday gathering brings little readers together for storytime. More Info
• 10:00–11:00 AM
• Barrett Memorial Library, Williams Bay

Family Storytime with Miss Esther - Homeschoolers and families with children of all ages are invited to drop by the Storyroom. The calendar description welcomes families to experiment, experience, and explore. More Info
• 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Pasie's Preschool & Play - Bring little ones to Lake Geneva Public Library for stories and movement. This preschool gathering combines storytime with play. More Info
• 10:30–11:30 AM
• Lake Geneva Public Library

After School Story and Craft Hour - Visit Walworth Memorial Library for its weekly after-school story and craft hour. The gathering combines a story with time for crafting. More Info
• 3:30–4:30 PM
• Walworth Memorial Library

Chess For All - Players ages 8–108 who already know how to play chess are invited to the library for a match. Instruction is not provided, and participants are encouraged to bring a chessboard because the library has a limited supply. More Info
• 4:00–5:00 PM
• Lake Geneva Public Library

STEAM Storytime - Children ages 2-7 will be learning skills that sharpen their running, balance, and jumping. Register in advance More Info
• 4:30–5:30 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Young Athletes - Children of all ages, especially preschoolers and older, are invited to an afternoon storytime. Enjoy stories and a different STEAM activity each week. More Info
• 6:00–7:00 PM
• Options Virtual Charter School, Elkhorn

Preschool Storytime - Children ages 2–5 and their caregivers can enjoy stories, songs, and crafts. Expressive reading and interactive activities encourage participation and help build early literacy skills. More Info
• 8:15–8:45 AM & 9:00–9:30 AM
• Life Choices, Burlington

Wiggles and Words Storytime with Ms. Andrea - Children of all ages are invited to join Ms. Andrea in the Storyroom. Enjoy stories, movement, and open play during this library gathering. More Info
• 9:30–10:30 AM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Storytime with Miss Wendy - Join Youth Librarian Miss Wendy for preschool storytime at Lake Geneva Public Library. Listen to books read aloud, then enjoy themed activities and socializing. More Info
• 10:30–11:30 AM
• Lake Geneva Public Library

Pokémon Hangout - Kids can spend time with friends and share their love of Pokémon, with crafts and cards available. Participants may bring their own cards to play or share, but staff cannot supervise trading. More Info
• 3:30–5:30 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Open Mic Night - Join the talented teachers and kids are Rock Central for a night of music and if you or the kids are brave enough, join in. More Info.
• 6:00–8:00 PM
• Topsy-Turvey Brewery, Lake Geneva

Holiday VIP Shopping Night at Terra Barn Collective - Get a first look at Christmas at the Barn while shopping refreshed vendor spaces, seasonal décor, gifts, and vintage finds, with wine and light snacks available. Tickets are required and cost $10 per guest; each registered guest receives a $5 coupon toward a purchase over $75.
• 4:00–7:00 PM
• Terra Barn Collective, Elkhorn

Wiggles & Waves - Enjoy a family program featuring gym play and a swim in the activity pool. Admission is free for members and adults, while community admission is $10 per child; register through the YMCA or call 262-248-6211.
• 9:00–11:00 AM
• Geneva Lakes Family YMCA

Holiday Open House at Terra Barn Collective - Explore the barn transformed for the holidays, featuring festive décor, handcrafted treasures, home accents, clothing, gifts, and vintage finds. Shop offerings from more than 38 local resident vendors while gathering inspiration for your holiday home and supporting local makers and small businesses.
• 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
• Terra Barn Collective, Elkhorn

Matinees at Matheson: Miracle (2004, PG) - Enjoy a showing of the inspiring sports drama Miracle at Matheson Memorial Library. Free popcorn and soda are provided courtesy of the Friends of the Library.
• 1:00 PM
• Matheson Memorial Library, Elkhorn

Christian Performing Arts Community Presents Seussical JR at Lakeland Players Sprague Theater - The Blue Fish Cast brings Dr. Seuss's stories to life as Horton and Gertrude work to save the Whos and restore peace to the Jungle of Nool. This musical celebrates friendship, loyalty, love, and standing up for your beliefs; doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
• 7:00–9:00 PM
• Lakeland Players Sprague Theater, Elkhorn

As a parent, discovering programs like Stay and Play feels like finding a little gem in your community. It's one of those places where children can learn, explore, and grow at their own pace while parents connect, observe, and gain valuable support along the way.

Stay and Play at Williams Bay Elementary is truly one of the most wonderful gifts available to local families with young children. Offered completely FREE and open to the community on Tuesdays during the school year, this program welcomes children ages 0-4 into a warm, engaging environment designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and help little ones feel comfortable in a school setting long before kindergarten arrives.

From the moment you walk through the door, you'll find children happily exploring a variety of hands-on activities. Whether it's sensory bins, dramatic play in the kitchen area, baby dolls, art materials, or activities that develop both fine and gross motor skills, there is something for every age and stage. It's the kind of place where children naturally learn through play, all while making discoveries, building independence, and developing important early childhood skills.

What makes Stay and Play especially special is the incredible team behind it. The teachers bring expertise in early childhood education, early intervention, special education, and speech therapy, creating an environment that is not only fun but incredibly supportive. Families have the opportunity to learn simple ways to encourage school readiness, language development, and a love of reading, all in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Every session also includes story time and a creative art project, giving children opportunities to listen, imagine, create, and participate together. These shared experiences help foster a love of learning while creating wonderful memories for both children and caregivers.

More than anything, Stay and Play feels like a place where families are welcomed with open arms. It's a chance for children to build confidence, make friends, and become excited about learning, while parents connect with knowledgeable educators and other families in the community.

If you have a child ages 0-4, I can't recommend this program enough. It's free, it's fun, and it's one of those rare community resources that leaves you wondering, "How did we get so lucky to have this right here in our own backyard?"

Department of Health and Human Services Walworth County, Call 262-741-3200 Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm to schedule your immunization appointment and verify vaccine availability. More Info
• 8:00–11:00 AM
• Walworth County Dept. HHS, Elkhorn

More Info

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Nearly $2,000 in cash prizes + multiple chances to win!

Think your gingerbread creation has what it takes? Sign-ups are officially open for Grand Geneva’s annual Gingerbread House Competition!

Plus, we’ll crown winners in five additional categories:

Category winners can take home prizes including Timber Ridge birthday and waterpark parties, a Grand Geneva Adventure Package and a $250 Grand Geneva gift card.

Ready to build something sweet? Enter by 5pm on November 13!

Sign up and view full competition details here: https://www.grandgeneva.com/.../gingerbread-house...

MORE INFO

Swing Dance Social @ Celebrate Swing - Lake Geneva Swing hosts a weekly dance night for all ages and skill levels, and no partner is needed. The evening starts with a beginner lesson, followed by social dancing on hardwood floors. Cost is pay-what-you-can, $5–$10 per person. More Info
• 7:00–9:30 PM (beginner lesson 7:00–7:30 PM, dancing 7:30–9:30 PM)
• Horticulture Hall, Lake Geneva

TFI FRIDAY: FREE Comedy Series - This free comedy night is hosted by Addison O’Neal, with opener Sam Berry, featuring Jason Seiler, and headliner Ronnie Ray. Enjoy happy hour, house pizzas, an open mic after the show, and dancing or karaoke with KAli Entertainment. Admission and parking are free, it's 18+, and seating is first come, first served. More Info
• 5:00–9:30 PM (bars open 5:00 PM, comedy show 7:30 PM)
• Lake Geneva House of Music, Lake Geneva

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