The first big break of the school year is upon us, and students are counting down the days. Fall break in Smith County will be the week of October 16 through October 25. If you’re having trouble planning activities for your kiddos, here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling.
- Take a trip to Watertown and enjoy a double-feature at the Star-Dust drive-in. Their family friendly atmosphere is perfect for a night out with kids. The gates open Friday through Sunday at 6pm and the first feature begins at 7:30pm. Admission is $7.50 per person (ages 12 & Over), Kids (ages 6-11) $5.00, and Children (ages 5 & under) are FREE! Enjoy their yummy concessions or purchase an outside food and beverage permit for $6 and bring your own picnic. To find out what will be playing you can visit http://www.stardustdrivein.com/
- For a spooky adventure, visit Deadland Haunted Woods in Lebanon. They offer three terrifying attractions: The Curse $15 per person, The Portal $15 per person, and The Maze $5 per person. Bundle prices are also available if you would like to experience multiple attractions. To buy tickets and for more information visit http://www.deadlandwoods.com/2015/index.shtml
- For a fun-filled day your younger children will enjoy, visit Amazin Acres of Fun in Sparta. They offer interactive corn mazes, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, farm animal petting, the rainbow jumper, lil’ Farmersville, and more! Admission is $10 and kids ages 2 and under get in for FREE. Operating hours are Friday 9am-2pm and 5pm-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm, and Sunday 1pm-5pm. Amazin Acres of Fun is located at 2857 Old Kentucky Rd. North Sparta, TN 38583. For more information visit http://www.amazinacres.com/
- One of Smith County’s greatest treasures is the Smith County Heritage museum. Not only will you have a blast studying Smith County’s past, but your children will be soaking up some rich history. The museum is located at 107 Third Ave. E Carthage, TN 37030. They are open Thursday 12-4pm, Friday 10am-2pm, and Saturday 10am-2pm. Admission is FREE! For more information you can visit http://www.smithcountyheritagemuseum.org/
- While you’re in town visiting the museum, further your child’s education by visiting one of our local public libraries. Both the Carthage and Gordonsville libraries offer a large amount of traditional books, audio books, DVDs, CDs, free downloadable books, and more. For more information visit https://sites.google.com/site/smithcountypubliclibrary/home
- For your older children, it’s never too early to start looking at colleges. Scheduling a visit or two while they’re on a break from school is a great way to boost their higher education motivation. Here are a few links to help you decide which local universities your child would like to tour. Tennessee State University, Belmont University, Vanderbilt University, MTSU, Tennessee Tech University.
- Enjoy a day taking in one of Smith County’s most beautiful areas as you hike the Bearwaller Gap. This trail has views like none other, and is a wonderful way to get your children involved in a little old-fashioned physical activity.
- If your family is looking for a weekend getaway or just a day filled with fun, the Defeated Creek Marina is the perfect place! The marina offers Boat Rentals, Cabins, Restaurant, Store, Open and Covered Slips to 70′, Laundry, RV Campsites, Fuel, Bait, Launch ramp, Hiking Trails, Beach, Picnic Areas, Playground, Tennis and Basketball Courts, and Mountain Bike Trails. For more information visit http://www.defeatedcreekmarina.com/
- If you’re looking for an event that will entertain the entire family, look no further that the annual October Fest hosted by the home office of Wilson Bank and Trust in Lebanon. This event will be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 17-18, beginning at 9:30. Activities will include: children’s games, over 100 craft venders, food, and more! Admission is FREE!
- Wilson County Fair ground’s Fiddler’s Grove will be hosting Ghosts in the Grove on October 17 beginning at 6:30pm. This ghostly gathering will include stories, spooky walks, and food. This event is open to all ages. Adult admission will be $7, children will be $5, and kids ages 5 and under are FREE
