Friday, October 2 marks not only the end of the semester, but the beginning of our Fall Break as well. With the combination of Fall Break and Columbus Day, students will be out of school through Monday, October 12. School will commence on Tuesday, October 13.

Looking for a fun and educational way to occupy youngsters during that time? Below are a few opportunities available in Glendale as well as the larger Phoenix Metro Area.

The Glendale Public Library has a full schedule of activities for all ages, including their PAWS to Read Program, which allows children ages 5 and up the chance to read to a dog for 15 minutes. The library features craft programs, reading groups, and story time as well. Check out their September & October Events Calendar for details and information on how to sign up for activities that require it.

The fall schedule of Ballet Under the Stars is wrapping up on October 2. These free outdoor performances in parks all around the Valley, put on by Ballet Arizona, begin at 7 p.m. and last about an hour. All you need is a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy this annual community gift.

Tempe’s Movies in the Park start up on October 4 at Kiwanis Park with a showing of Ghostbusters. The shows begin at dusk, around 6 p.m. You can find out more information here.

For a little active fun, check out the free Video Game Olympics at the Halle Heart Children’s Museum on October 6, 8, and 9 from 3 – 3:30 p.m. This is a regular event held by the museum and could become a regular family fun outing.

Every October brings a wealth of harvest festivals at local farms. This year is no exception. From the large to the small, there are numerous locations featuring fall fare, corn mazes, hayrides, and other entertainment, along with the chance to go trekking through a pumpkin patch for the perfect round, orange autumnal squash. You can find a listing of these locations through the October event calendar of Raising Arizona Kids Magazine.

Also, on October 11 the Arizona State Fair returns to Phoenix, bringing wild rides, exhilarating concerts, and fascinating attractions. You can find out more information on their website.

No matter how you spend your Fall Break, we hope it’s a safe and happy one. See you October 13.