Ever get in the mood for something completely different? The winter blahs can make you itchy to take a break from the same-old, same-old and give something new a try. Check out these picks for some out of the ordinary fun with the kiddos.

Photo: The Bilge Pumps

There’s no better cure for boredom than a good dose of the sillies. Grand Prairie’s own local pirate band, the Bilge Pumps will be at Uptown Theater this Saturday night for an evening full of pirate music, great fun, and nautical nonsense for the entire family. Joining the Pumps will be D/FW’s own Skeleton McKee! This talented Celtic band was voted by the Dallas Observer as one of the top 10 Irish-themed bands in the Metroplex. There will also be caricature artists and face painters in the lobby before the show and during intermissions. The Pirates on the Prairie IX show starts at 6 p.m. so don’t be a scurvy dog and miss out!

Photo: shutterstock.com

If you prefer your music with a little polka beat don’t miss the 14th Annual Czech Music Festival at the Sokol Hall in beautiful Ennis, Texas. The family-friendly day-long festival is filled with dancing, food, a kid zone, and great music from 5 fabulous polka bands. There will also be a parade of Czech costumes at 3 p.m. so be sure to wear your finest kroje. Admission is only $8 for a whole day of fun, and kids aged 12 & under are free!

Photo: Wildflower Art Studio

Get those creative juices flowing with a Paper Marbling Workshop at Wildflower Art Studio in Denton. The 2-hour class, for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade, introduces kids to the art of creating swirl-like designs on paper. Students will create handmade cards, just in time for Valentine’s Day. This fabulous winter workshop happens this Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. While you’re there be sure to check out their other workshops for kids.

Photo: Allen Parks and Recreation

The Super Bowl is over and March Madness is still a few weeks away, but lovers of a good competition can get their fix at Allen Parks and Recreation’s Annual Duck Derby this Saturday. The participants are rubber duckies, not athletes, but you’ll cheer all the same as they race down the lazy river at Rodenbaugh Natatorium Saturday morning at 10 a.m.  Purchase your “racing duck” at the natatorium, decorate it and then return it for judging by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 8.  Awards will be given to the fastest and best-decorated ducks.

Photo: Hypnotic Donuts

For those wanting to take a dip for themselves, stop by the Dallas Fraternal Order of Eagles Pool this Sunday for the 8th Annual Hypnotic Donuts Polar Plunge. The name says it all in this fundraiser for the Greater Dallas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Participants will jump in the (probably) cold pool at the FOE, swim the length and then enjoy food and beverages with new and old friends alike. You can take a plunge or stay dry on the sidelines and watch.

For even more kid-friendly events, explore the Kids & Family section of the Art&Seek calendar.