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Celebrate Week of the Family with lots of fun activities

Posted Oct 27, 2009 by Beth Gaddis

Updated Oct 27, 2009 at 09:12 AM

The Week of the Family Tampa Bay kicks off this Sunday with a free event at the Museum of Science & Industry.

MOSI is offering free admission to all visitors on Nov. 1.  You’ll see the exhibits, enjoy live music by Tracy Williams, Belinda Womack and Morrison Avenue, participate in family workshops and more, spokeswoman Cathy Crowder said. The only things not included are admission to the IMAX Dome Theatre or Mindbender Mansion.

The Week of the Family event started in Orange County in 2003, according to the Tampa Bay’s event co-chair Jim Gillen.  Last year, organizers started working with business and government leaders in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties to create an event here.

“It’s a chance for parents to reconnect and get back to what’s important,” Gillen said.  “We have zero budget –proudly- because the idea is to have everyone to come together to contribute talents and resources and create this event that will be uplifting for the community.”

One example is Tracy Williams, a Tampa native who was originally part of PYT and has toured with ‘N Sync, Britney Spears, Destiny’s Child, and 98°.  She’ll perform a free concert at MOSI Sunday afternoon. “They’ll have 30 dancers and the stage was donated by a local church,” Gillen said. “It will be in the grassy area between the IMAX theater and the Kids in Charge area.”

Lowry Park Zoo will bring animals and the Busch Gardens drum band will perform at MOSI on Sunday.  Both attractions are also offering deals at their own parks at different times during the week.  And Channelside Cinemas is offering free admission for two children with one full-price adult ticket for movie night on Nov. 5. Click here for a list of all the deals available.

Throughout next week, families can enjoy plays, story times, yoga, magic shows, even Wii games a Disney character breakfast at several libraries. Click here for a complete list of show times and places.

There’s also a chance to give back to the community through a variety of service projects.  Click here for the list.

“It’s a chance to create memories with your family,” Gillen said.

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