Family events in Quad Cities, IA

Show Me Reptile Show brings a wide ranging reptile expo to The Golden Leaf Banquet Center, blending fun, education, and discovery for visitors of every age. Explore reptiles of many kinds alongside amphibians, invertebrates, small exotic mammals, and aquatics. Browse a marketplace of enclosures, feeders, décor, plants and bioactive supplies, and other essentials to support responsible care. Meet experienced breeders and reputable vendors, take photos, ask questions, and enjoy the animals on display even if you are not planning to take a new pet home. General admission is available in advance at $12 for adults and $5 for kids ages 7 to 12, with children 6 and under admitted free. At the door, adult tickets are $15 and kids ages 7 to 12 are $5, with children 6 and under free. A VIP pass is $17 when purchased ahead or $20 at the door, which includes early entry and complimentary admission for the second day at events that span two days. All ages are welcome.

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A free meal is available every Sunday. Se ofrece una cena gratuita cada domingo.

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Created for children ages 3 to 5, Pre-K Prep Storytime supports school readiness and early literacy through stories, songs, fingerplays, and playful activities. Children can practice recognizing letters, numbers, sight words, and colors, as well as counting. The program strives to be inclusive to all.

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A welcoming literacy experience for children ages 0–3 and a caregiver.

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Young artists ages 5 to 9 can practice foundational art skills and techniques during this one-hour session. Pay as you come, and attend whenever you can.

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Author A.S. King, a two-time recipient of the American Library Association’s Michael L. Printz Award, shares insights shaped by her experience teaching adults to read. Her talk explores teen literacy, critical thinking, access to information, and how reading can help people navigate traumatic or unsettling experiences. King also invites students to consider what literacy means, how reading supports the brain, and why learning to write well is valuable throughout life. A book signing follows the talk. Attendees may bring a copy for King to sign or preorder her latest book, It Came from the Creek, for pickup at the event. This free program is intended for students, parents, and educators, and is funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.

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Explore the story of The Nutcracker with Ballet Quad Cities on an enchanting journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. Hear the story, then put on a costume and dance as Clara, the Mice and Toy Soldiers, the Snowflakes, or the Sugar Plum Fairy.

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Hang out after school and play a game!

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Graphic novel fans can explore a different book each month, share favorite moments, discuss the story, and enjoy an activity or craft inspired by the book. The selections span genres such as fantasy, adventure, mystery, humor, and realistic fiction. Readers at any experience level can discover new books and connect with other fans. Copies of each month’s book will be available to borrow from the library while supplies last.

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Children can take part in a fun STEAM-based activity. The program is funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.

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Enjoy a fun, hands-on STEAM-based activity at the After School Kids Lab. The program is funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.

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Girls Social offers a Thanksgiving cookie decorating class at A&L Sensory Gym. Enjoy an afternoon of creativity, friendship, and sweet treats in a welcoming, sensory-friendly space.

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Stroller Barre is a 60-minute stroller workout for moms and moms-to-be, with stroller-aged children welcome to ride along. The class combines barre, Pilates, yoga, and strength training for a full-body workout. Bring a stroller, water, and a mat. Participants can exercise and connect with other moms in the DICK’S House of Sport, and everyone in attendance will be entered to win a store giveaway.

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Children ages 3 to 5 can enjoy 30-minute sessions featuring stories, music, and creative movement, with a new theme each week. No registration is required.

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Explore and try on a selection of baby carriers, get help adjusting a carrier you already own, or check out or return carriers if you are a lending library member. The full lending library will not be available, so contact the organizers in advance if you are looking for a particular style or carrier, and they will bring it if possible. The meeting is free, open to the public, and family friendly. Children are welcome, and you can come and go as you like.

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Curator Chris Chandler from the Putnam Museum and Science Center will share the story of a recently excavated Triceratops skeleton that will eventually be displayed at the Putnam Museum. Learn about the excavation and preparation of the skeleton during this free program funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.

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Enjoy a lively painting party filled with laughter while supporting the Children’s Advocacy Center Serving Rock Island County.

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Celebrate the holiday season with two days of food, shopping, music, kids’ activities, and festive fun at Mercado on Fifth. The program includes live music by The Crooked Cactus Band, food vendors and sweet treats, local retail vendors offering gifts and goodies, and family-friendly entertainment. Admission is free, and free Holiday Hop trolley rides make it easy to explore participating businesses in Downtown Moline. The celebration brings families together, supports small businesses, and shares the community’s culture and holiday spirit.

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Enjoy a family movie night featuring “Christmas Jars,” the inspiration for an annual tradition of collecting change throughout the year to anonymously donate to a family at Christmas. Popcorn and candy are provided. Please bring your own drink.

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The Watts-Midtown Branch opens after dark for Late Night at the Library. Library resources are available, except for computers. Teens After Hours is also offered.

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Test your knowledge of the decades from 1980 to today at a trivia night presented by JFK Home & School. Admission is $25 per person, with tables of six. Tickets can be paid for in advance or at the door by cash or check. Bring your own food and drinks, and cash for additional games.

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The Pharaoh Temple 183 Turkey Trot is a family-friendly race welcoming runners, walkers, and cheerleaders of all ages. Take part at your own pace and celebrate the season with family, friends, and neighbors.

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Corgis of the Quad Cities is taking part in the Festival of Trees Parade with a winter wonderland theme. The group expects around 75 people, with dogs not included in that estimate. No payment is required to participate, as donations have covered the group entry fee.

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Designed for children ages 2 to 6, this program features stories followed by an extended time for play and imagination.

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Explore the museum’s permanent exhibition, The German Immigrant Experience, and its two rotating galleries on a guided tour led by the education coordinator. The tour is open to all ages and the public, and is included with regular admission. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Free children’s activity kits and sensory kits are available at the front desk for visitors to use during their visit.

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Arrow of Light Scouts and their families can explore opportunities for crossing over into Scouts BSA at this free troop fair. Meet representatives from troops throughout Kittan District, learn about their activities, ask questions, and compare what each troop offers. New and returning Scouting families are also welcome to learn more about the Scouts BSA program. RSVPs are requested to support planning, and walk-ins are welcome.

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Enjoy a storytime and craft centered on cornucopias. Participation is limited to the first 10 participants, and the program is sponsored by the Friends of the Silvis Library.

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Celebrate the holiday season at a free community gathering featuring horse-drawn carriage rides, children’s activities, Santa Claus, live music, treats, and hot cocoa. The celebration includes a ceremonial tree lighting followed by a fireworks display. Presented by the City of Moline, Moline Centre, John Deere, MetroLINK, Renew Moline, MidAmerican Energy, and Vibrant Arena, with WQAD as a partner.

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