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The Watch City Steampunk Festival is for KIDS, too!

Calling all young time travelers! Here are the kid-friendly events happening at the festival in May!

By Maria Barrette, Macaroni KID Waltham+ April 30, 2024

The wonder of steam power, fantastical costumes, and a dash of mystery are all on the agenda at the upcoming Watch City Steampunk Festival! This free, family-friendly event, happening Saturday, May 11, 2024, offers a unique blend of entertainment and activities that will spark imaginations and ignite a love for invention in kids of all ages.

If you are a first-timer family, like mine, you may wonder what exactly is in store for your family. I’ve done the digging for you and hope this article will help to convince you to join the fun! Below is the proposed schedule of events specifically for children:

  • 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Stilt Walking with Trevor the Games Man
  • 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | The Caboose is Loose Puppet Show
  • 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM | Face Painting
  • 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM | The Caboose is Loose Puppet Show
  • 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM | The Aerial Delights Show
  • 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Bubble Time!
  • 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Parachute Games
  • 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Project Ribbon Dancer
  • 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Mary Puppets, the Steampunk Nanny
  • 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Bubble Time!

In addition to the child-specific activities listed above, there will be plenty to see and do on Waltham Common. Live performances, a “Mad Hat” contest, aerial acrobatics, unique vendors, and so much more!

The time and locations of all performances are subject to change ahead of the event weekend, so keep in touch with the details on the Watch City Festival website!

Beyond the Festival: Fueling the Fun

While the festival offers a jam-packed day of entertainment, there are ways to extend the steampunk spirit at home!

  • Craft Your Own Steampunk Gear: Gather cardboard boxes, bottle caps, and other recyclables, and let imaginations run wild. Kids can create their own goggles, hats, or even miniature jetpacks using everyday materials.
  • Steampunk Story Starters: Encourage kids to write their own steampunk adventures. What fantastical inventions might they create? What challenges might they face in a world powered by steam?

The Watch City Steampunk Festival promises a day of wonder and invention for the whole family. So, dust off your top hats, polish your goggles, and get ready for a fantastical adventure in Waltham this May!