The "I Just Need to Leave My House" DIY Guide
Listen, I love my home. I love my kids. But by the time November hits and the 4:30 PM sunset starts mocking our internal clocks, the walls of the living room start feeling a little too familiar. We need a destination and a "thing" to do.
The catch is that most indoor spots cost something north of $0, especially when the weather is doing that "too cold for the park but too rainy for the yard" thing. You’ve already done the library circuit and you’ve already dragged them through the grocery store for "fun." What if I told you there’s a place you can go with actual activities that are completely free?
Of course, there is a slight caveat: these destinations usually involve bringing home more stuff. Specifically, small wooden objects of questionable structural integrity that will inevitably live on my kitchen counter for three weeks before I "accidentally" knock it into the recycling bin. It’s a delicate trade-off. Do I want another lopsided birdhouse in my life? Absolutely not. Do I want thirty to sixty minutes of focused activity that doesn't involve a screen or me playing referee in the hallway? Absolutely.
If you’re ready to trade a little shelf space for some sanity, here are three ways to get the kids building something this month (and every month), without your wallet getting any lighter.
Lowe’s – DIY-U Kids Workshops
I’ll just come out and say it: Lowe’s is my personal favorite. If you’re looking for the path of least resistance, this is the one.
The Project: Seasonal kits like the "Holiday Engine" (a wooden train) or mini toy boxes.
The Loot: A completed wooden project and a collectible badge for their apron.
The Vibe: Generally less chaotic than its rivals. I find there’s more room to actually build, the instructions are much clearer, and the overall frustration level for both parent and child is significantly lower. And if you earn 12 badges you get a free tool bag!
The Strategy: Usually held the second or third Saturday of the month (this month it’s on Nov 14th). Registration is required via the MyLowe’s Kids Club page. I recommend the Plainville location for a smooth experience.
Home Depot – Kids Workshops
The orange giant is the gold standard for burning a Saturday morning. It’s loud, it’s tactile, and it feels like a "real" construction site.
The Project: Classic wooden builds, such as "Dump Trucks" or "Christmas Car Ornaments."
The Loot: A finished project, a bright orange apron, a certificate, and a commemorative pin.
The Vibe: Productive chaos. Expect a lot of hammering and a very high probability of you "helping" by holding the nails while your thumb takes the brunt of the impact. Beware of painting the finished project, sometimes they have extra paint for you to take and finish at home.
The Strategy: These usually happen on the first Saturday of the month (this month it’s on Nov 21). They tell you to register on their workshops page ahead of time; but I’ve found walking up is fine too.
Michaels – MakeBreak Sessions
If you prefer glue and paint over hammers and nails, Michaels is your spot. These sessions are perfect for the kids who have a more delicate touch (or for parents who just can’t deal with the sound of hammering).
The Project: Guided craft projects such as ornaments, wreaths, or seasonal decor.
The Loot: A custom made craft with possibly a significant amount of glitter that will follow you home like a persistent ghost.
The Vibe: A mini art studio. It’s a lower decibel experience than the hardware stores but requires a bit more fine motor focus.
The Strategy: These are typically free weekend drop-ins, but double-check the store calendars, as some "Kids Club" events carry a small fee (I linked the free ones).
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November 9 - 15:
The Week Ahead
Here’s what’s on deck this week around the Valley — mark your calendars!
Look for icons to find your crowd: 🎈 kid-friendly • 👤 adult • 🌞 all ages
Date & Time | Event Name | Location |
Tue, Nov 10 7 - 9 PM | Iron Horse Pub, Unionville | |
Sat, Nov 14 1 PM | Barnes & Noble, West Hartford | |
Sat, Nov 14 2 - 5 PM | Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington | |
Sat, Nov 14 6:30 PM | Farmington Polo Club | |
Sat, Nov 14 | St. Patrick’s Church, Collinsville | |
Sun, Nov 15 7:30 - 11:30 AM | Tunxis Hose Station, Unionville | |
Sun, Nov 15 | St. Patrick’s Church, Collinsville | |
Sun, Nov 15 2:00 PM | Farmington Polo Club |
Booked in the Valley: Your Library Connection
Library Events
Discover what’s happening at your local library. Registration may be required—check with each library for full details and other events.
Date & Time | Event Name | Library |
Mon, Nov 9 1 - 6 PM | Simsbury | |
Mon, Nov 9 6 - 7 PM | Farmington | |
Mon, Nov 9 6 - 7: 30 PM | Avon | |
Tue, Nov 10 6 - 7: 30 PM | West Hartford (NWL) | |
Tue, Nov 10 6 - 7: 30 PM | Simsbury | |
Thu, Nov 12 3 - 4:30 PM | Farmington | |
Thu, Nov 12 6 - 8 PM | Simsbury | |
Fri, Nov 13 9:30 - 10:30 AM | Simsbury | |
Sat, Nov 14 10 AM - 5 PM | Simsbury | |
Sat, Nov 14 1 - 3 PM | West Hartford (NWL) |
