Family events in Crystal River, FL

Kids can relax, play, and connect with friends at Rainbow Lakes Estates Youth Center in Dunnellon, enjoying a variety of games, crafts, and activities in a welcoming setting. The center offers regular hours midweek on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, along with occasional special hangout days when school is out. Children 12 and under must have a parent present. Plans and schedules may change, so look for the most up-to-date information before heading over.

Tater Tot Thursdays offers toddlers fun, enrichment, and stimulation at RLE Community Center.

A karate class for homeschool students meets on Thursdays.

Enjoy a free stargazing event under the new moon, open to all ages. No telescope is needed, and Saturn may be visible with its rings. Arrive while it is still daylight, and remember to use only red lights after dark, not white lights from a cellphone. A telescope will be set up, and someone will be available to answer questions and offer help.

At The Bay Community Church in Tampa, the 11th annual chili fundraiser features a spread of chili varieties prepared by the Trailmen, along with raffle baskets that include items such as camping gear and tickets for family outings. Proceeds support the 2026/27 troop year by covering trip and activity expenses like campground fees, a zipline course, and a mountain man breakfast, as well as equipment and supplies that keep the program running, including kayaks, cooking gear, charcoal, fishing bait, instructional rope, paint and maintenance for the storage trailer and its lights, plus BBs and slingshot pellets. Funds also help provide awards such as The Standard walking staff for older boys, badges and pins, project materials like Pinewood Derby car kits, and scholarships for families with financial need. In addition to the chili event, the troop is holding a clay shooting fundraiser this year, with no barbecue planned, to help keep annual dues low while supporting activities that build skills in camping, hiking, backpacking, kayaking, woodworking, cooking, archery, shooting, biking, fishing, woodsmanship, ropework, orienteering, knife use, and fire safety. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 13. Raffle tickets are $5 each, or five for $20.