Remember the “and now for something completely different” gag on the old “Monty Python” show? Okay, if you’re under 30, probably not. If you’re not familiar, it was a brief bit of silliness that acted as an opener to the show and segue between sketches.  The famous catchphrase was delivered by John Cleese at an anchor desk in some bizarre location. It could have been a rocky beach, a cage at the zoo, or with Cleese himself sitting on top of the desk in nothing but a bikini. You knew when you heard those words you were indeed going to see something completely different. It reminded me that occasionally we need to shake up our routine with a bit of something different.

Are you craving a weekend adventure for you and the kiddos that’s different– perhaps even a little quirky? Take a gander at these picks from the Junior. They’re the different you’ve been craving.

Bakers of all sizes want you to try their cupcakes at Cupcakes for a Cause. Photo: Cupcakes for a Cause.

Speaking of craving, I ask you, is there anything more delectable than a cupcake? If you agree, then don’t miss the opportunity to sample some confectionery goodness and do it for a good cause to boot at Cupcakes for a Cause. Bakeries from all over DFW will be whipping up kaboodles of the delicious treats to raise money for LEAP Global Missions, a Dallas-based nonprofit that provides free specialized surgical and medical care to people around the world. Besides the tasty treats, there will also be a cupcake-eating contest, bounce houses, and face-painting. The seriously sweet soiree happens this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at University Park United Methodist Church.

Learn all about the tradition of the maypole at Bookmarks. Photo: Dan Wade

The weather might be a bit iffy this weekend, but you can still enjoy a springtime ritual inside where it’s nice and dry at NorthPark Center.  Join Dallas Public Library’s Bookmarks at EastCourt (by La Madeleine) this Saturday at 2 p.m. for The Maypole Show. Storytellers Rochelle Rabouin and Stewart Shelton explain the meaning and the history of maypole dances throughout English and Jamaican history using music, dance and art. Afterward, there will be a maypole dance with a real maypole.

Look for the early birds this Saturday morning from a kayak. Photo: Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center at Cedar Hill

Nature lovers looking for a unique way to explore the flora and fauna in our neck of the woods won’t want to miss the Birding by Boat event this Saturday at Cedar Hill State Park. You and the kiddos will have the unique opportunity to view birds (and other wildlife) from the water as you paddle a kayak around Joe Pool Lake. The group tour sets out at 9 a.m. and is led by staff from the Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center. All equipment is provided, including kayaks, paddles, life vests, and binoculars. No kayaking experience is necessary.

The kids can practice their reading at a screening of the 1927 silent film ‘My Best Girl.’

If you want to try something REALLY different this weekend check out the Movie on the Lawn this Saturday night at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum in Carrollton. They’ll be screening the 1927 silent film, ‘My Best Girl,” starring Mary Pickford. The romantic comedy was Pickford’s last silent film (She was the Sandra Bullock of the day) and it also captures the budding romance between the actress and co-star (her future husband) Buddy Rodgers.

Stop by and say hello to this guy at the Fair Park & Architecture Scavenger Hunt. Photo: Library of Congress

Looking for some big fun? The nice folks at Preservation Dallas want you to gather up the gang and head to the home of Big Tex this Sunday for the Fair Park Art & Architecture Scavenger Hunt. You and your team can race through Fair Park gathering clues while learning all about the exciting art and architectural history of Fair Park. Participants who go on the hunt will be entered into a drawing for prizes. Meet at the blue tent in front of the Hall of State to register or check-in, and to pick up the scavenger hunt list.