Weekend Plans: Kindergarten kickoff, Packapalooza, block party, more

Happy weekend! Here’s what’s happening on the family fun front. As always, check WRAL.com’s Out & About calendar and our #100thingsWRAL list of summer fun.

The first day of school is getting close! Northgate Mall in Durham will host a back-to-school bash from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, with all kinds of free activities, giveaways, contests and more. And Marbles Kids Museum’s Kickoff to Kindergarten is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday. It’s free for rising kindergartners, who will get a chance to experience a bit about what kindergarten is all about, and their families.

Packapalooza is 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, on Hillsborough Street across from NC State. The free event begins with the N.C. State Marching Band and culminates with a fireworks show at 10 p.m. In between, there will be music, NC State athletes signing autographs, kids activities an art zone and more. Admission is free.

The people behind the International Festival of Raleigh will host a block party on City Plaza in downtown Raleigh from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday. Admission is free. You’ll find food, music, dance and more from around the world.

Paperhand Puppet Intervention’s massive annual summer show continues at the Forest Theater in Chapel Hill. This live, family-friendly show features puppets of all kinds, music and performances.

The Triangle Children’s Business Fair, featuring the products and services of local kids ages 6 to 14, is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, at Park West Village in Morrisville. This is a great opportunity to support budding, young entrepreneurs.

Artspace in downtown Raleigh will host a Family Fun Day from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday. Admission is free. Visitors can check out the Artspace Youth Art Exhibition and take part in artist demonstrations, face painting and make and take activities. Carnival treats will be available for purchase from local vendors. It’s open to the public.

At the Durham Performing Arts Center, Disney’s Newsies runs through Sunday with multiple shows (for kids 6 and up). Tickets start at $30 (plus taxes and fees).

And The Raleigh Times children’s carnival in downtown Raleigh is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, on Hargett Street. There will be games, sidewalk chalk, bouncy castles and more, along with great food and drink.