Tag: christmas

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of February 2 – 8, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of February 2 – 8, 2026

    Can you believe it’s already February? After last week’s messy winter weather, I know a lot of us are ready to get out of the house, stretch our legs, and be around other adults for a change. Even with winter still hanging on, a quick outing or a small connection with other families can do wonders for everyone’s mood.

    Some local parks are still listed as closed from storm damage, so if you’re planning to head outside, it’s worth double-checking before you go. That includes Peacock Hill Nature Park which has a few events this week.

    If you’re up for a little virtual fun, Monday, February 2, is Groundhog Day! You can check out Punxsutawney Phil do his thing on the livestream that kicks off at 6:00 a.m. here.

    There are a few more sports registration deadlines this week to keep on your radar:

    Spring Hill Lions Club Registration Opens for Ages 4–12 (Monday morning)
    2026 softball and t-ball season registration opens Monday. Divisions break down as T-Ball: Ages 4–5, Coach Pitch: Ages 6–8, Minor League Softball: Ages 9–10, Major League Softball: Ages 11–12. Registration closes March 24, 2026. Evaluations and draft are April 11, practices start May 2, and games kick off May 26.

    Columbia FC Spring Rec League Registration Closes (Ages U6–U14, Sunday afternoon)
    This closes registration for Columbia FC’s Spring Outdoor Recreational League for boys and girls ages U6–U14 (birth years 2012–2020). The season runs March 7 through May 2, and this is your last chance to sign up.

    Here are a few highlights this week for families looking for something fun, creative, or just a good excuse to get out of the house:

    Whether you’re easing into the week or juggling a busier schedule, there are plenty of ways to get out (or stay in) without overdoing it. Even one small outing, class, or craft project can break up the winter routine and give everyone a little boost.

    Scroll down or click on a day below to see the full calendar with times, locations, costs, and links so you can decide what works best for your family.


    Monday, February 2nd

    Groundhog Day at Peacock Hill Park (College Grove)

    Event has been canceled.

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Baby Time for Ages 0–2 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Rhymes, songs, books, and lots of bouncing that is just right for your little one. This interactive weekly session is designed for children from birth to age 2 and their caregivers, with a brief playtime included.

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Story Time w/ Maury County Public Library for ages 0-5 (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library for off-site story time at the Maury County Archives while the main library undergoes renovations. Children and caregivers can enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and simple activities designed for ages 0 to 5. All families are welcome to attend this early literacy program.

    Messy Zone Mondays: Shaving Cream Construction

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    Kids Day Out at the Old Jail Museum (Lawrenceburg)

    Location: Old Jail Museum (233 Waterloo St, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464)
    Time: 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM
    Cost: Not Specified
    Description: Kids Day Out hosted by LawCo Kids Activities and Impact Events featuring a guided visit to the Old Jail Museum. Children will explore local history in an age-appropriate, hands-on way while touring the historic building, hearing stories, and asking questions about life in Lawrence County long ago. Parents are encouraged to stay with their children throughout the visit. This is a relaxed, family-friendly outing that also offers parents a chance to connect with other local families.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.


    Tuesday, February 3rd

    Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Art Play Drop-in for ages 2-10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Sign up here)
    Cost: $12.50 per child or included with an Art Play Pack
    Description: Open-ended art and sensory play designed for kids ages 2–10, with parent participation required. Children can explore creative stations, make take-home projects, paint, and enjoy messy outdoor play. TN Art Yard also offers preschool, homeschool, and afterschool programs, including a sensory play group for ages 18+ months that typically runs in four-week sessions.

    Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts

    Location: Macedonia Recreation Center (501 Armstrong St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A parent-and-child fitness meetup hosted by Columbia Parks and Recreation that combines light cardio, strength exercises, and a group stroller walk. During colder months, the group meets indoors at the Macedonia Rec Center with access to the gym for walking and workouts. Big bouncy balls and Duplo blocks are available for kids, and families are welcome to bring additional toys. All fitness levels are welcome.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    Wonder Station – Fizz & Pop Volcanoes

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through music and structured activities.

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    After School Art Break (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Drop by the multi-purpose room for a relaxing, self-paced art activity using different materials each week. Designed for school-aged kids but open to all. No sign-up required. The focus is on creativity, not the final product.

     K9 Book Buddies 15-Minute Sessions – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM (15-minute sessions)
    Cost: Free
    Description: This one-on-one reading program pairs children with certified therapy dogs for a calm, supportive reading experience. Each participant receives a 15-minute session to read aloud to a dog in a nonjudgmental setting. Open to readers of all ages and skill levels. Families should bring their own book. Participants are limited to one session per month.

    LV Chess Club For Ages 6–16 | Kickoff of February Session (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $75 (Sign up here)
    Description: Multi-week chess club welcoming players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Sessions take place in the Movie Room and focus on rules, tactics, middlegame planning, endgame technique, and sportsmanship for tournament play. Instruction is led by experienced chess trainer John Loftus. All materials are provided.


    Wednesday, February 4th

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Open Play Wednesday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play is available in both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, while the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. A virtual punch card may be available through the front office for additional savings.

    Toddlers, Tales & Trails at Peacock Hill Park for Ages Under 5 (College Grove)

    Location: Peacock Hill Nature Park (6990 Giles Hill Rd, College Grove, TN 37046)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An outdoor early childhood program led by a park ranger that includes a short hike followed by a nature-themed story time on the trails. Designed for children under age 5, this program takes place entirely outside and focuses on building an early appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Parents must stay with their child and walk with the group throughout the program. Families should dress for the weather.

    Agathos Story Time (Columbia)

    Location: Agathos Classical School (1201 Mapleash Ave, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Weekly story time held on Wednesdays for children ages 3 to 5 to attend with an adult. Siblings are welcome.

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    Kids Bootcamp (Ages 6+)

    Location: Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center (1446 Oak Springs Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free for members or included with a day pass
    Description: A structured fitness program for kids ages 6 and up featuring games, fitness challenges, and skill-building activities. The focus is on coordination, strength, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment designed to keep kids active and engaged.

    Winter Sensory Play Day for ages 1 – 6 at Arise Therapies

    Location: Arise Therapies – Columbia (2563 Nashville Hwy Ste. 6, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM (Sign up here)
    Cost: $20 per child. Parent attendance required
    Description: Winter-themed sensory play session featuring snow sensory bins, fizzy snow, arts and crafts, gross motor play, fine motor activities, and pretend play including building snowmen. Designed for children ages 1–6.

    Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available, including a small obstacle course, trampoline, climbing rope, balance beams, and bars. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Pokémon Open Play for All Ages

    Location: Game Knight (119 Nashville Hwy #117, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A relaxed, beginner-friendly Pokémon open play session for kids, teens, and families. Participants may bring Pokémon card decks or a Nintendo Switch to play video games, trade cards, and enjoy casual matches. Staff and experienced players are available to help teach gameplay. Tables are open throughout the event, and this session also serves as Trade Day.


    Thursday, February 5th

    Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available, including a small obstacle course, trampoline, climbing rope, balance beams, and bars. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Story Time w/ Maury County Public Library for ages 0-5 (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library for off-site story time at the Maury County Archives while the main library undergoes renovations. Children and caregivers can enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and simple activities designed for ages 0 to 5. All families are welcome to attend this early literacy program.

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    Ballet Class (Spring Hill)

    Moved to next week.

    Tinker Time with aMuse’um – Imagination Playground Blocks

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Tinker Time gives kids the chance to design, build, and test their ideas through creative tinkering activities. These sessions build confidence, teamwork, and perseverance while encouraging children to think like engineers in a fun, hands-on way. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through music and structured activities.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.


    Friday, February 6th

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Open Play Friday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session includes access to both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, and the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    Daytime Playtime at Xplosion Cheer & Tumbling (Lyles)

    Location: Xplosion Cheer & Tumbling (7011 Patton Park Rd, Lyles, TN 37098)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: $5 per child
    Description: Open playtime designed for children ages 6 and under. No registration is required, making this an easy drop-in option for weekday mornings.

    Homeschool LEGO Club (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A monthly LEGO building session especially for homeschoolers, but open to all.

    Video Games in Real Life Pop-Up Program for Ages 7–14 w/ Discovery Gymnastics

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Not Specified (Sign up here)
    Description: Designed for kids ages 7–14, this program turns video game-style challenges into real-life movement activities. Focuses on teamwork, agility, coordination, and problem-solving with no screens required. Recurring every Friday in February.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    Open Play Friday Main Gym for All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session takes place in the main gym and is open to children of all ages. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.


    Saturday, February 7th

    Home Depot Kids Workshop (Spring Hill)

    Location: The Home Depot (5411 Columbia Pike, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Sign up here)
    Description: A free in-store kids workshop where children can build a penguin mailbox using provided materials. Workshops are designed to encourage hands-on building and creativity. Advance registration is recommended, as kits are available while supplies last.

    Crawlers & Cruisers (Sitters to Pre-Walkers)

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $20 per family (Sign up here)
    Description: A parent-and-child playgroup for babies who are sitting independently and beginning to explore movement but are not yet walking, typically around 6 to 12 months. Led by an occupational therapist, this small-group session supports early motor milestones through guided play and connection with other caregivers. Advanced registration is required, and the session may be cancelled if there are low sign-ups.

    Baby Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Rhymes, songs, books, and lots of bouncing that is just right for your little one! Build your baby’s foundation for lifelong reading and learning with this interactive weekly session designed for children from birth to 2 years old and their caregivers. A brief playtime follows. Sessions are held in the Multi-Purpose Room.

    Rolly Poly (Pre-Rollers)

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: $20 per family (Sign up here)
    Description: A parent and me playgroup designed for babies ages 4 to 6 months who are comfortable with tummy time but not yet rolling. Led by an occupational therapist, this small group session focuses on purposeful play to support rolling development, answer common milestone questions, and help caregivers feel confident supporting early movement skills in a relaxed, supportive setting. Advanced registration is required, and the session may be cancelled if minimum enrollment is not met.

    Pruning Practices Workshop (Designed for Adults & Older Kids)

    Location: Fernwood Garden Center (1075 N James Campbell Blvd, Columbia)
    Time: 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description:
    This free, hands on pruning workshop teaches proper pruning techniques, common terms, and how to use essential tools. Participants will be guided through the pruning process during the class, with trees and pruners provided. No equipment is needed. The workshop is held outdoors at the garden center, so attendees should dress appropriately for the weather. Suitable for adults and older children.

    LV Self Defense Workshop for Ages 5–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
    Cost: $40 (Sign up here)
    Description: Youth self-defense workshop designed to help children ages 5–10 learn basic skills to stay safe, respond to bullying, and protect themselves in challenging situations. The class is taught by certified self-defense master instructor Raquel Lenhart. Sessions are held in the Movie Room.

    Theater Camp w/ MCAG for Grades 3 – 6

    Location: Maury County Arts Guild (705 Lion Pkwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM
    Cost: Free (Sign up here)
    Description: Theater camp for students in grades 3–6 focused on learning multiple aspects of theater and exploring the importance of the arts. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Families should register by scanning the QR code in the event post or by using the registration form linked above.

    Pokemon Club (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Pokemon club event hosted by Spring Hill Public Library. Participants are invited to bring their cards to battle and trade with others. Attendees can enter their name in a drawing for a chance to win a pack of Pokemon cards upon arrival.

    Free Community Valentine Craft Event (Spring Hill)

    Location: The Painted Plant (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy Suite B-4, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Community craft event creating paper flowers and Valentine cards for a local assisted living and memory care facility. Includes door prizes, photo wall, and treats. All supplies provided.

    Painting with a Twist: Adorable Llama Love Canvas Class (All Ages)

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd #14, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: $27 (Sign up here)
    Description: Guided paint class featuring the “Adorable Llama Love” artwork. Designed for all ages and skill levels.

    Infant CPR & Choking Class w/ Blessed Beginnings

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $45 (Sign up here)
    Description: Community-based Infant CPR and choking response class hosted by Blessed Beginnings and led by Michelle Greaves. Non-certification class focused specifically on care of infants under one year old following American Heart Association Family and Friends guidelines. Instruction includes both video and hands-on practice. Adults only; participants should not bring children.

    Father–Daughter Dance for Grades K–5th Grade (Spring Hill)

    Location: Battle Creek High School (130 Battle Crk Wy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $30 per couple. $10 for each additional sibling
    Description: Father–Daughter Dance for K–5th grade students and their father figures. Evening includes live music, games, photo booth, and concessions. Each ticket includes a corsage. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. Fathers, uncles, brothers, step-dads, grandpas, and all father figures are welcome.

    Daddy Daughter Dance 2026 (Ages 3+)

    Location: Memorial Building (War Memorial Building, 308 W 7th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $40 members, $50 non-members, additional siblings $20 each
    Description: Evening of dancing, kid-friendly light snacks, and sweet moments celebrating the bond between dads and daughters. Suggested ages 3 and up. Dress up and enjoy a memorable night together. Note: This event is sold out.


    Sunday, February 8th

    Make Your Own: Pinecone Bird Feeder at Peacock Hill Park (College Grove)

    Location: Peacock Hill Nature Park (6990 Giles Hill Rd, College Grove, TN 37046)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Sign up here)
    Description: Hands-on nature activity where participants create pinecone bird feeders to help support local birds during the winter months. This program is designed for all ages and takes place outdoors. Please note: peanut butter is used during this activity, which may be a concern for those with allergies.

    Snow Ball w/ Building Block School for the Arts (Columbia)

    Location: Building Block School for the Arts (1309 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $15 per child (plus fees) (Sign up here)
    Description: Winter-themed Snow Ball featuring character visits from Cinderella, Anna, and Willy Wonka. Activities include dancing and learning to curtsy, chocolate treats, and a story time with Anna.

    Pokemon Kids-Only Learners League (Spring Hill)

    Location: Just Roll With It! Cards and Games (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy Ste C11, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: Not Specified
    Description: Kids-only Pokémon learning league.

    Valentine’s Mom & Me Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls w/ Marigold Baking Co.

    Location: Private Residence (Address sent upon registration)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: $50 per pair (Sign up here)
    Description: Hands-on Valentine’s baking event where a parent and child make heart-shaped sourdough cinnamon rolls with naturally pink icing. Each pair takes home a box of heart-shaped cinnamon rolls to enjoy together.


    As always, I hope this guide helps take a little of the planning off your plate and makes it easier to find fun, family-friendly activities around Columbia and Spring Hill. Things can change quickly, especially with weather, closures, or registration deadlines, so be sure to double-check with the host before heading out.

    If you ever notice something that needs updating or have an event to share with other local families, I would love to hear from you. Your tips and feedback help make this guide even more useful for everyone navigating winter activities and family fun.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 26 – February 1, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 26 – February 1, 2026

    As this last week of January leads into February, families around Columbia and Spring Hill are getting their first glimpse of a new month. With winter still in full swing, it is hard not to pause and wonder how we are already starting February. Even without a packed calendar, winter often feels like a season that calls for slowing down. If hibernating were an option, many parents, myself included, might be tempted to take it.

    Weather note: As the weekend leading into this week approaches, we are expecting potentially impactful winter weather, including the possibility of ice. As this system moves through, some events scheduled for the week ahead may be cancelled, delayed, or rescheduled. If widespread power outages occur, hosts may not be able to share updates, and I may not be able to make real-time changes either. Please plan to double-check events before heading out, stay flexible, and prioritize safety and preparedness as conditions unfold.

    With that slower pace in mind, there are a few options this week designed more with parents in mind. Making time for yourself and connecting with other adults matters too, especially during seasons that can feel isolating. TN Sippy Cup Society: A Parenting Network offers a virtual space for parents to connect and feel supported. For those looking to move their bodies while also connecting with other moms, Columbia Parks and Recreation hosts a stroller workout and toddler hangout, and there are also mommy and me class options at Maddy’s Playhouse, including Hatchlings and Minisaurus, where parents can exercise alongside their infants or toddlers. The new Mommy and Me reformer class at Studio Elevé is another option focused on supporting caregivers while still welcoming little ones.

    If you have been thinking about spring sports sign-ups, there are a couple of important deadlines happening this week to keep in mind, including Columbia American Little League registration closing and early sign-up pricing ending for Columbia Girls Fastpitch. You can always find current sports registration deadlines and reminders on the events calendar. These are highlighted in yellow for easy reference.

    There are several standout events happening this week, especially if you are looking for creative, sensory, or family-friendly options spread across different days and times:

    If you are looking for something creative that does not require going anywhere, this week also marks the start of Crayola Creativity Week 2026: Color Inspires Creativity, a free, weeklong celebration of creativity for students, educators, and families. You do not have to be a teacher or part of a school to participate. Families can join in at home with simple, creative activities designed to encourage originality and self-expression. If you are looking for an easy way to add something creative to your week without another place to be or schedule to manage, this is a great option.

    Whether you are easing into the week or leaning into a full schedule, there are plenty of ways to participate without overextending yourself. Even in hibernation mode, one small outing or creative activity can help break up the winter routine.

    Scroll down or click on a day below to see the full calendar with times, locations, costs, and links to help you decide what fits best.


    Monday, January 26th

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1-5 at Villages Clubhouse

    Closed due to weather

    Baby Time for Birth to 2 Years (Spring Hill)

    Closed due to weather

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Communication Stations for Ages ~18 Months to 3 Years at Villages Clubhouse

    Closed due to weather

    Mommy & Me Reformer Class for Newborns to 9 Months

    Closed due to weather

    Story Time for Ages 0–5 – Unique Unicorns (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for story time while the main library undergoes renovations. Enjoy stories, rhymes, and activities geared toward ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    Messy Zone Mondays: Symmetry Squish Art w/ aMuse’um

    Closed due to weather

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-focused class for kids ages 2–5 where parents participate alongside their children. Music is incorporated to guide active play and movement, with an emphasis on physical engagement rather than music instruction.


    Tuesday, January 27th

    Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers with Villages Clubhouse

    Closed due to weather

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5 with Villages Clubhouse

    Closed due to weather

    Art Play Drop-in for ages 2-10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Sign up here)
    Cost: $12.50 per child or included with an Art Play Pack
    Description: Open-ended art and sensory play designed for kids ages 2–10, with parent participation required. Children can explore creative stations, make take-home projects, paint, and enjoy messy outdoor play. TN Art Yard also offers preschool, homeschool, and afterschool programs, including a sensory play group for ages 18+ months that typically runs in four-week sessions.

    Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts

    Canceled due to weather

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    No classes today

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Canceled due to weather; however, the library is open.

    Kids Day Out at the Old Jail Museum (Lawrenceburg)

    Rescheduled due to weather

    Wonder Station w/ aMuse’um

    Closed due to weather

    Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    No classes today

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    No classes today

    After School Art Break (Spring Hill)

    Canceled due to weather; however, the library is open.


    Wednesday, January 28th

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5 with Villages Clubhouse

    Closed due to weather

    Agathos Story Time for Ages 3–5

    Canceled due to weather

    Open Play Wednesday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play is available in both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, while the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. A virtual punch card may be available through the front office for additional savings.

    Toddlers, Tales & Trails at Peacock Hill Park for Ages Under 5 (College Grove)

    Park closed due to tree damage

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM or 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Canceled due to weather

    Kids Bootcamp for Ages 6+

    Canceled due to weather. The ARC opens at 10 AM, indoor pools open in the afternoon.

    Winter Sensory Play Day for Ages 1–6 at Arise Therapies

    Canceled due to weather

    Open Gym for All Ages with Discovery Gymnastics

    Canceled. Day Camp available to attend for ages 4+.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-focused class for kids ages 2–5 where parents participate alongside their children. Music is incorporated to guide active play and movement, with an emphasis on physical engagement rather than music instruction.

    TN Sippy Cup Society: A Parenting Network (Centerstone)

    Location: Virtual (Zoom)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Parent support and connection group hosted by Centerstone for prenatal, expecting, and parenting adults with children up to age five. While this is not a kids activity, it offers a space for parents to connect with other parents and build community.

    Pokémon Open Play for All Ages

    Location: Game Knight (119 Nashville Hwy #117, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A relaxed, beginner-friendly Pokémon open play session for kids, teens, and families. Participants may bring Pokémon card decks or a Nintendo Switch to play video games, trade cards, and enjoy casual matches. Staff and experienced players are available to help teach gameplay. Tables are open throughout the event, and this session also serves as Trade Day.


    Thursday, January 29th

    Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Open Play with Discovery Gymnastics

    Canceled; however, there is a day camp for older & fully potty-trained kids.

    Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    Story Time for Ages 0–5 – Unique Unicorns (Off-Site)

    Canceled due to weather

    Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    Tinker Time with aMuse’um – Create-a-Creature Workshop

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Tinker Time gives kids the chance to design, build, and test their ideas through creative tinkering activities. These sessions build confidence, teamwork, and perseverance while encouraging children to think like engineers in a fun, hands-on way. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through structured activities.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me fitness class designed as a workout for mothers, with exercises that incorporate holding or interacting with your toddler while you move.

    Chess Club with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Canceled due to weather


    Friday, January 30th

    Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    Open Play Friday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session includes access to both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, and the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    Daytime Playtime at Xplosion Cheer & Tumbling (Lyles)

    I believe they are closed following the local school closures.

    Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Classes canceled, but open for open play.

    Open Play Friday Main Gym for All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session takes place in the main gym and is open to children of all ages. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Classes canceled, but open for open play.

    Bundle Up, Stuffies! w/ Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Canceled. Will be rescheduled for a later date.

    Drive-Thru Glow Party at Chick-fil-A (Spring Hill)

    Location: Chick-fil-A (4885 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Drive-thru glow party at Chick-fil-A Spring Hill featuring glow sticks, music, and surprise giveaways after dark. Families can participate while driving through the drive-thru.

    Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella w/ MCAG

    Location: Maury County Arts Guild (705 Lion Pkwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: $15 children 12 and under. $20 students, seniors, and military. $25 adults (Buy tickets here)
    Description: This classic stage production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella offers a family-friendly theater experience with music, storytelling, and live performances. A good option for school-aged kids who enjoy plays and musicals, with reserved seating available.


    Saturday, January 31st

    Geocache Day at Owl’s Hill (Brentwood)

    Rescheduled to March 2026

    Tummy Time Playgroup for Ages 3 Weeks and Up

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: $20 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Playgroup for parents and babies ages 3 weeks and up focused on early development and tummy time support. Sessions include TummyTime!™ activities, practical tips for understanding infant needs, and elements of infant massage to encourage bonding, improve sleep, and support digestion and growth. Led by occupational therapist and certified infant massage instructor Cassie Kleinfelder. Advance registration is required and sessions may be cancelled if there are low sign-ups.

    Painting with a Twist Mommy and Me “I Love U So Stinkin’ Much” (Paired Canvases)

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd #14, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: $27 (Sign up here)
    Description: Parent-and-child paired painting class where each participant paints one canvas from a matching set that creates a complete image together.

    Budget on a Bean for Grades K–2 – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Hands-on workshop introducing kids in grades K–2 to basic money management concepts using a bean-based activity. Kids explore income and expenses, learn the difference between needs and wants, and discuss preparing for unexpected situations. This event was rescheduled from January 24 due to weather.

    Money Games for Grades 3–5 – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Interactive library program for students in grades 3–5 featuring hands-on money games, including Budget on a Bean and Smart Cart. Kids practice saving, spending, budgeting, and making thoughtful choices through play. This event was rescheduled from January 24 due to weather.

    Reading Ranger (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park, Campstore (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free. Optional donation levels available (Register here)
    Description: Outdoor story time with a park ranger featuring a children’s book connected to the park. Seating is limited, so blankets or chairs are encouraged. Families should dress for the weather and review the park’s eligibility document to determine if the program is a good fit.

    Don’t Break the Bank Game for Grades 6–8 – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Interactive board game experience for students in grades 6–8 focused on real-life financial decision-making. Players navigate income, spending, saving, and long-term planning through gameplay inspired by Monopoly and the Game of Life. This event was rescheduled from January 24 due to weather.

    My First Robot Parent and Child Robotics Workshop for Ages 4–7 (Spring Hill)

    Event canceled.

    Wetland Night Hike (Chapel Hill)

    Event canceled.

    Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella w/ MCAG

    Location: Maury County Arts Guild (705 Lion Pkwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: $15 children 12 and under. $20 students, seniors, and military. $25 adults (Buy tickets here)
    Description: Classic stage production offering a family-friendly theater experience with music, storytelling, and live performances. A good option for school-aged kids who enjoy plays and musicals, with reserved seating available.


    Sunday, February 1st

    Primitive Fire Building and S’mores for Ages 7 and Up (College Grove)

    Event canceled

    Puppy Snuggles & Adoption Event w/ Love, Rae Grace (Spring Hill)

    Location: Love, Rae Grace Boutique (5075 Main St D2, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Sign up here)
    Description: Love, Rae Grace Boutique is teaming up with Rubies and Rogues for a cozy afternoon event featuring adoptable pups, complimentary coffee from Flownel’s Coffee, easy shopping, and puppy snuggles. 10% of all purchases during the event will be donated to Rubies and Rogues.

    Shotokan Karate for Ages 6–15 | Kickoff of 4-Week Session (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $65 (Sign up here)
    Description: Four-week karate series introducing the principles and fundamentals of Japanese Shotokan Karate. Open to youth ages 6–15 with no prior experience or equipment required. Classes focus on flexibility, balance, focus, confidence, and basic self-defense skills. Sessions take place in the Dance Studio.

    Pokemon Kids-Only Learners League (Spring Hill)

    Location: Just Roll With It! Cards and Games (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy Ste C11, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: Not Specified
    Description: Kids-only Pokémon learning league held at Just Roll With It! Cards and Games. Sessions take place weekly on Sundays through February 22, 2026.


    I hope this week’s guide makes planning a little easier and helps you find kids activities around Columbia and Spring Hill that fit your family right now. Event details can change, especially this time of year, so it is always a good idea to double-check information with the host before heading out. If you come across something that needs an update or know of a local family event that should be included in a future guide, feel free to reach out. Even one small outing can make a winter week feel a bit more manageable.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 19 – January 25, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 19 – January 25, 2026

    This week’s guide includes a day-by-day look at family and kids activities around Columbia and Spring Hill, with a mix of drop-in events, special programs, and a few opportunities that are worth planning ahead for. Whether you are looking for something simple to break up the day or a reason to get out of the house, there is a good variety of options across different ages and interests.

    Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and many schools will be out. Libraries and some businesses will be closed for the holiday. If you have school-aged kids and need day camp or drop-off options, the PNO calendar is the best place to see what is available locally.

    If daycare is closed and you can work remotely, there are a couple of options to consider. Maddy’s Playhouse co-working pods allow parents to work while their children play nearby in a supervised setting. Muletown Kids Casual Drop-Off Daycare is also open on Monday and offers flexible drop-off care for children ages 1–12.

    A few events to note this week:

    • Toddler Tales & Trails in College Grove (Wednesday) is a great outdoor story time option. I have heard great things about this program, especially for families in the Spring Hill and College Grove area. It runs rain or shine, with activities moved indoors if needed.
    • Story Time at Needle & Grain with Columbia Power & Water (Wednesday) continues this week. This is a bi-weekly story time, and the next schedule should be posted soon.
    • Auditions for Aladdin Jr for Ages 5–18 (Thursday) include guided instruction and are a fun opportunity for kids interested in theater.
    • Birds of Prey in Chapel Hill (Friday) is a short, educational program featuring live birds and is a solid option for families who enjoy nature programs.

    As the week unfolds, January can be a good reminder that it is okay to slow things down a bit. After the holidays and the rush of routines, this season invites us to step out of constant go-go-go and be more intentional with our time. That might mean choosing fewer activities, lingering a little longer at home, or saying yes to something that helps you really be present with your kids. There is no right pace, just the one that works for your family.

    I hope this guide helps make the week ahead feel easier to plan. Scroll down or click on a day below to see the full calendar with times, locations, costs, and links to help you decide what fits best.


    Monday, January 19th

    Since it’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day and many kids are out of school, there are three drop-off program options for ages 3 and up. Full potty-training is required for all of them. Full details can be found here.

    👑 Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤖 Demolition Robotics Camp for Ages 7–12 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $55 per participant (Sign up here)
    Description: Hands-on robotics workshop where kids build and operate demolition-style robots using motors, gears, sensors, and controllers. Participants learn basic engineering concepts while safely demolishing structures in a controlled environment. No prior robotics experience is required.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    🎨 Messy Zone Mondays: Ooey Gooey Oobleck

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-focused class for kids ages 2–5 where parents participate alongside their children. Music is incorporated to guide active play and movement, with an emphasis on physical engagement rather than music instruction.


    Tuesday, January 20th

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    👑 Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🎨 Art Play Drop-in for ages 2-10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Sign up here)
    Cost: $12.50 per child or included with an Art Play Pack
    Description: Open-ended art and sensory play designed for kids ages 2–10, with parent participation required. Children can explore creative stations, make take-home projects, paint, and enjoy messy outdoor play. TN Art Yard also offers preschool, homeschool, and afterschool programs, including a sensory play group for ages 18+ months that typically runs in four-week sessions.

    👟 Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts

    Location: Macedonia Recreation Center (501 Armstrong St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A parent-and-child fitness meetup hosted by Columbia Parks and Recreation that combines light cardio, strength exercises, and a group stroller walk. During colder months, the group meets indoors at the Macedonia Rec Center with access to the gym for walking and workouts. Big bouncy balls and Duplo blocks are available for kids, and families are welcome to bring additional toys. All fitness levels are welcome.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM or 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me fitness class designed as a workout for mothers, with exercises that incorporate holding or interacting with your toddler while you move.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🔎Wonder Station – Make it Rain

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through structured activities.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🎨 After School Art Break (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Drop by the multi-purpose room for a relaxing, self-paced art activity using different materials each week. Designed for school-aged kids but open to all. No sign-up required. The focus is on creativity, not the final product.

    🐶 K9 Book Buddies 15-Minute Sessions – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: This one-on-one reading program pairs children with certified therapy dogs for a calm, supportive reading experience. Each participant receives a 15-minute session to read aloud to a dog in a nonjudgmental setting. Open to readers of all ages and skill levels. Families should bring their own book. Participants are limited to one session per month.

    🎉 Bingo Night

    Location: Chick-fil-A Columbia (605 S James Campbell Blvd, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Chick-fil-A Columbia for a family-friendly bingo night. This in-store event is a relaxed evening option for families looking to do something simple together after dinner.


    Wednesday, January 21st

    👑 Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    📖 Agathos Story Time for Ages 3–5

    Location: Agathos Classical School (1201 Mapleash Ave, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Story time for children ages 3 to 5 to attend with an adult. Siblings are welcome.

    🤸 Open Play Wednesday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play is available in both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, while the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. A virtual punch card may be available through the front office for additional savings.

    🌿 Toddlers, Tales & Trails at Peacock Hill Park for Ages Under 5 (Not Local – College Grove)

    Location: Peacock Hill Nature Park (6990 Giles Hill Rd, College Grove, TN 37046)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An outdoor early childhood program led by a park ranger that includes a short hike followed by a nature-themed story time on the trails. Designed for children under age 5, this program takes place entirely outside and focuses on building an early appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Parents must stay with their child and walk with the group throughout the program. Families should dress for the weather.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM or 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🏃 Kids Bootcamp for Ages 6+

    Location: Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center (1446 Oak Springs Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free for members or included with a day pass
    Description: A structured fitness program for kids ages 6 and up featuring games, fitness challenges, and skill-building activities. The focus is on coordination, strength, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment designed to keep kids active and engaged.

    📚 Story Time at Needle & Grain with Columbia Power & Water

    Location: Needle & Grain (802 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Each story time features a guest reader sharing a children’s book, followed by a craft inspired by the story. Parents receive 10% off purchases in the store during the event.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available, including a small obstacle course, trampoline, climbing rope, balance beams, and bars. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-focused class for kids ages 2–5 where parents participate alongside their children. Music is incorporated to guide active play and movement, with an emphasis on physical engagement rather than music instruction.

    🎮 Pokémon Open Play for All Ages

    Location: Game Knight (119 Nashville Hwy #117, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A relaxed, beginner-friendly Pokémon open play session for kids, teens, and families. Participants may bring Pokémon card decks or a Nintendo Switch to play video games, trade cards, and enjoy casual matches. Staff and experienced players are available to help teach gameplay. Tables are open throughout the event, and this session also serves as Trade Day.


    Thursday, January 22nd

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    👑 Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available aside from the four corners and anything not already set up. Kids can explore a small obstacle course, bounce on the trampoline, try the climbing rope, walk the balance beams, and practice on the bars. This is a relaxed way to introduce gymnastics without committing to a class. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    📚 Nippy Nights Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for off-site story time while the main library undergoes renovations. Story time features stories, rhymes, and activities designed for kids ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🔧 Tinker Time with aMuse’um – Lego Construction Corner

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Tinker Time gives kids the chance to design, build, and test their ideas through creative tinkering activities. These sessions build confidence, teamwork, and perseverance while encouraging children to think like engineers in a fun, hands-on way. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🦖 Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through structured activities.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me fitness class designed as a workout for mothers, with exercises that incorporate holding or interacting with your toddler while you move.

    🐶 PAWS to Read with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Animal Shelter (1233 Mapleash Ave, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Kids can practice reading aloud to shelter dogs while the animal shelter and library are both under renovation.

    ♟️ Chess Club with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A weekly chess club where participants can learn, play, or teach others. Open to all ages and skill levels.

    🎭 Auditions for Aladdin Jr for Ages 5–18

    Location: Building Block School for the Arts (1309 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: $15 for new students. Current enrolled StoryBook and StoryTime players attend at no cost.
    Description: Open auditions for ages 5 to 18 for Aladdin Jr (revised version). The audition includes a guided workshop with dance instruction, song learning, and improv, followed by individual auditions using a prepared song. Rehearsals will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Performances are scheduled for April 10, 11, and 12.


    Friday, January 23rd

    👑 Superheroes & Princesses Open Play for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session includes access to both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, and the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    🧸 Daytime Playtime at Xplosion Cheer & Tumbling (Lyles)

    Location: Xplosion Cheer & Tumbling (7011 Patton Park Rd, Lyles, TN 37098)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: $5 per child
    Description: Open playtime designed for children ages 6 and under. No registration is required, making this an easy drop-in option for weekday mornings.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me fitness class designed as a workout for mothers, with exercises that incorporate holding or interacting with your toddler while you move.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym for All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session takes place in the main gym and is open to children of all ages. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-focused class for kids ages 2–5 where parents participate alongside their children. Music is incorporated to guide active play and movement, with an emphasis on physical engagement rather than music instruction.

    🦅 Birds of Prey (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM
    Cost: Free or optional donation (Register here)
    Description: Educational program for kids and families featuring the park’s resident barred owl and red-tailed hawk. The discussion takes place outdoors near the aviaries by the camp store. Donations support the care of the birds. Families are encouraged to review the park’s eligibility document to determine if the program is a good fit for their family.

    👑 Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella with MCAG

    Location: Maury County Arts Guild (705 Lion Pkwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: $15 child (12 and under), $20 students, seniors, and military, $25 adults (Purchase tickets)
    Description: This classic stage production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella offers a family-friendly theater experience with music, storytelling, and live performances. A good option for school-aged kids who enjoy plays and musicals. Reserved seating is available.


    Saturday, January 24th

    🎨 Bob Ross for Kids: Through the Window for Ages 6–12 (Spring Hill)

    Canceled

    🐧 Painting with a Twist: Peekaboo Penguin Canvas Class for All Ages

    Canceled

    💰 Budget on a Bean for Grades K–2 (Registration Required)

    Rescheduled

    💵 Money Games for Grades 3–5 (Registration Required)

    Rescheduled

    🏦 Don’t Break the Bank Game for Grades 6–8 (Registration Required)

    Rescheduled

    👑 Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella with MCAG

    Canceled


    Sunday, January 25th

    🎀 Dollie & Me Tea Party for Ages 3+ with Lil Swee-tea Party (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill, TN(Exact address provided after registration)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Cost: $35 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Whimsical afternoon tea party for children ages 3 and up and their caregivers. The event includes child-sized porcelain tea sets, lemonade and light treats, elegant table linens, a dress-up trunk, story time, music, and three doll-themed craft activities. Families are encouraged to bring a favorite doll. A gift bag is included for taking crafts home.

    👑 Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella with MCAG

    Canceled


    As always, I hope this guide helps take a little of the planning work off your plate and makes it easier to find kids activities in Columbia and Spring Hill that fit your family’s schedule. Event details can change, so it is always a good idea to double-check times and information with the host before heading out. If you notice something that needs updating or have a local family event you would like to share, I am always happy to hear from you.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 12 – January 18, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 12 – January 18, 2026

    This week feels like a reset as January settles in and routines start to take shape. Below you’ll find a day-by-day look at kid-friendly activities happening around Columbia and Spring Hill.

    Along with drop-in events, you’ll see several session-based classes included this week. These can be a good option for families looking for a little more structure and something consistent to look forward to week after week. For series that require advance registration, only the first session is listed so families aren’t seeing dates they can no longer join.

    You’ll also notice some events listed as “all ages.” That wording comes directly from the host, but it doesn’t always mean every age will truly enjoy it. For example, I probably wouldn’t take my two-year-old to an all-ages painting class since she can’t sit in one place for more than a few minutes. Every family is different, and what works well for one age or stage may not for another. Trust what you know about your child when deciding what feels like a good fit.

    If you’re specifically looking for drop-off programs, the PNO calendar is the best place to start. That’s where Parent’s Night Out events, camps, and other clearly listed drop-off options are shared in one place.

    A few events to note this week:

    • Launching this week, Maddy’s Playhouse is introducing brand new dinosaur-themed movement classes for infants through age 5 (various times and dates throughout the week).
    • Art Play Drop-In (Tuesday morning) is now offered on Tuesdays only in Spring Hill and continues to be a great option for open-ended art and sensory play.
    • Knitting with Kindness themed story times (Monday & Thursday mornings) are being held at the Maury County Archives Building while the Maury County Library is under renovation.
    • Toddlers, Tales & Trails (Wednesday morning) is a new addition to the list this week. It sounded like a fun outdoor option and, while it’s a bit of a drive from downtown Columbia, it’s not too far for Spring Hill families.
    • Baby Music & Movement for ages 0–18 months (Thursday morning) returns with Maury County Public Library at the Maury County Archives Building while the library is under renovation.
    • Happy Talk 8-Week Winter Classes (Friday morning) kick off at Maddy’s Playhouse for ages 5–24 months and 18–36 months. Registration closes Wednesday evening, so you may not want to wait to sign up if this is on your to-do list.
    • Wicked: For Good Watch Party (Saturday evening) wraps up the week at Love, Rae Grace Boutique. If you haven’t been there before, it’s a wonderful boutique that regularly hosts events for kids of all ages and has been a great addition to that spot in Spring Hill.

    As always, I hope this guide helps make the week ahead feel a little easier to plan. Scroll down or click on a day below for the full calendar with dates, times, costs, and links to help you plan.


    Monday, January 12th

    🖌️ Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    👶 Baby Time for Ages 0–2 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Rhymes, songs, books, and lots of bouncing that is just right for your little one. This interactive weekly session is designed for children from birth to age 2 and their caregivers, with a brief playtime included.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    📚 Knitting Kindness Story Time with Maury County Public Library for ages ≈ 05 (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for off-site story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Knitting Kindness and will feature stories, rhymes, and activities designed for kids ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    🎨 Messy Zone Mondays: Shaving Cream Marble Art

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Shaving Cream Marble Art. Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.

    🖌️ Crafternoon w/ Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Exhibit Building (1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A hands-on craft program hosted monthly by Maury County Public Library for kids and families. This off-site session takes place at the Exhibit Building at Maury County Park and offers a relaxed opportunity for creative time together.

    📣 Champion Force Cheer D1, D2, & D3 (Ages 4–9+) | 16-Week Class Kick-Off (Spring Hill)

    Location: Game Time Sports and Training (1210 Impact Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: Classes run between 5:45 PM and 8:15 PM depending on age group
    Cost: Not specified (Sign up here)
    Description: Kick-off date for a 16-week cheer program offering D1, D2, and D3 levels for ages 4–9+. Classes meet once per week for 45 minutes and focus on age-appropriate cheer fundamentals. This session runs through May 4, 2026, with no class held on April 6.


    Tuesday, January 13th

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    🖌️ Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🎨 Art Play Drop-in for ages 2-10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Sign up here)
    Cost: $12.50 per child or included with an Art Play Pack
    Description: Open-ended art and sensory play designed for kids ages 2–10, with parent participation required. Children can explore creative stations, make take-home projects, paint, and enjoy messy outdoor play. TN Art Yard also offers preschool, homeschool, and afterschool programs, including a sensory play group for ages 18+ months that typically runs in four-week sessions.

    👟 Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts

    Location: Macedonia Recreation Center (501 Armstrong St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A parent-and-child fitness meetup hosted by Columbia Parks and Recreation that combines light cardio, strength exercises, and a group stroller walk. During colder months, the group meets indoors at the Macedonia Rec Center with access to the gym for walking and workouts. Big bouncy balls and Duplo blocks are available for kids, and families are welcome to bring additional toys. All fitness levels are welcome.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM or 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🔎Wonder Station – Lava Lamp Experiments

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Lava Lamp Experiements. Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through music and structured activities.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🎨 After School Art Break (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Drop by the multi-purpose room for a relaxing, self-paced art activity using different materials each week. Designed for school-aged kids but open to all. No sign-up required. The focus is on creativity, not the final product.

    🖌️ Drawing and Painting at TN Art Yard (K–2nd Grade) Session Begins

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
    Cost: $450 for the full semester or $90 deposit plus four $90 monthly payments (Register here)
    Description: First session of a structured drawing and painting class for students in kindergarten through second grade. The semester runs January 13 through May 5 and focuses on building foundational drawing skills through age-appropriate projects and a variety of art techniques. Advanced registration for the full session is required.


    Wednesday, January 14th

    🖌️ Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Play Wednesday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play is available in both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, while the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. A virtual punch card may be available through the front office for additional savings.

    🌿 Toddlers, Tales & Trails at Peacock Hill Park for Ages Under 5 (Not Local – College Grove)

    Location: Peacock Hill Nature Park (6990 Giles Hill Rd, College Grove, TN 37046)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An outdoor early childhood program led by a park ranger that includes a short hike followed by a nature-themed story time on the trails. Designed for children under age 5, this program takes place entirely outside and focuses on building an early appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Parents must stay with their child and walk with the group throughout the program. Families should dress for the weather.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM or 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🏃 Kids Bootcamp (Ages 6+)

    Location: Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center (1446 Oak Springs Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free for members or included with a day pass
    Description: A structured fitness program for kids ages 6 and up featuring games, fitness challenges, and skill-building activities. The focus is on coordination, strength, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment designed to keep kids active and engaged.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available, including a small obstacle course, trampoline, climbing rope, balance beams, and bars. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.

    🖌️ Drawing and Painting for K-5th Grade | Session Begins (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $450 for the full semester or $90 deposit plus four $90 monthly payments (Register here)
    Description: First session of a structured drawing and painting program for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The semester runs January 14 through May 6 and focuses on the elements and principles of design using materials such as pencil, charcoal, ink, and pastels. Advanced registration for the full session is required.

    🎮 Pokémon Open Play for All Ages

    Location: Game Knight (119 Nashville Hwy #117, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A relaxed, beginner-friendly Pokémon open play session for kids, teens, and families. Participants may bring Pokémon card decks or a Nintendo Switch to play video games, trade cards, and enjoy casual matches. Staff and experienced players are available to help teach gameplay. Tables are open throughout the event, and this session also serves as Trade Day.


    Thursday, January 15th

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    🖌️ Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available aside from the four corners and anything not already set up. Kids can explore a small obstacle course, bounce on the trampoline, try the climbing rope, walk the balance beams, and practice on the bars. This is a relaxed way to introduce gymnastics without committing to a class. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    🦖 Hatchlings Mommy & Me for Infants w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class designed for mothers and their infants, focused on bonding and gentle full-body movement with an emphasis on low core and pelvic floor activation.

    📚 Knitting Kindness Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for off-site story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Knitting Kindness and will feature stories, rhymes, and activities designed for kids ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    Homeschool Thursdays: The Wonderful Water Cycle (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034), Shelter 2 (A-Frame Shelter)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $3 per homeschool student or optional donation levels available (Sign up here)
    Description: A homeschool-focused educational program exploring the water cycle, including its stages and how water is used by humans. Activities and discussion align with first through fifth grade standards, though all students are welcome. An adult is required to attend with each homeschooler, and registration is required. One activity includes a hike, so sturdy shoes and water are recommended. Families are encouraged to review the park’s eligibility document when determining if the program is a good fit.

    🎵 Baby Music and Movement for Ages 0–18 Months w/ Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A music-focused program featuring songs and rhymes designed specifically for babies ages 0–18 months, hosted off-site by Maury County Public Library.

    🔧 Tinker Time with aMuse’um – Build-a-Bridge Challenge

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s theme is Build-a-Bridge Challenge. Tinker Time gives kids the chance to design, build, and test their ideas through creative tinkering activities. These sessions build confidence, teamwork, and perseverance while encouraging children to think like engineers in a fun, hands-on way. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Bronto-Squats for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A movement-based class for kids ages 2–5 that supports gross motor development, balance, and foundational movement skills.

    🖌️ Drawing and Painting for 3rd–5th Grade | Session Begins (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $450 for the full semester or $90 deposit plus four $90 monthly payments (Register here)
    Description: First day of a structured drawing and painting session for students in third through fifth grade. The semester runs January 15 through May 15 and focuses on perspective, value, and design using a variety of art techniques and materials. Advanced registration for the full session is required.

    🦖 Dino-Flex for Ages 3–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A weekday class for kids ages 3–5 focusing on flexibility, mobility, and movement through music and structured activities.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    ♟️ Chess Club with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A weekly chess club where participants can learn, play, or teach others. Open to all ages and skill levels.


    Friday, January 16th

    🖌️ Open Play Session for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session includes access to both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, and the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    🗣️ Happy Talk 8-Week Winter Class for Ages 5–24 Months (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
    Cost: $250 for the full 8-week session (Sign up here)
    Description: An eight-week early language class designed for babies and young toddlers ages 5–24 months. Families can expect singing, signing, and sensory play that support early language development, strengthen caregiver and child connection, and create positive learning experiences. Classes are created and led by a Speech Language Pathologist. Registration includes access to the online Early Communication Skills Toolkit. Spots are limited.

    🗣️ Happy Talk 8-Week Winter Class for Ages 18–36 Months (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: $250 for the full 8-week session (Sign up here)
    Description: An eight-week early language class for toddlers ages 18–36 months focused on building communication skills through singing, signing, and sensory play. Led by a Speech Language Pathologist, the class emphasizes connection, positive learning experiences, and practical strategies families can use at home. Registration includes access to the online Early Communication Skills Toolkit. Spots are limited.

    🍎 Taste Buddies 3-Week Series Kick-Off for Ages 3–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $100 per child and includes food for each session (Sign up here)
    Description: A three-week parent-and-child feeding series for preschoolers ages 3–5 who experience discomfort or challenges with food. Designed and led by a pediatric occupational therapist and speech-language pathologist, this series uses sensory play to help children build positive experiences with food while caregivers learn supportive strategies to use at home. Families with children slightly outside the age range are encouraged to reach out to see if the program may still be a good fit.

    🦕 Minisaurus Mommy & Me for Toddlers w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A mommy-and-me class for mothers and toddlers that encourages quality time together while participating in guided movement and exercise.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym for All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session takes place in the main gym and is open to children of all ages. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    📣 Premier Athletics All Star Showcase (Session 1)

    Location: Premier Athletics Columbia (2505 Pulaski Hwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
    Cost: $1 admission (all proceeds support the Cheer Abilities team, Moonchasers)
    Description: A showcase event featuring nine all-star cheer teams, school teams, and parent cheer teams. Performances highlight a wide range of routines and skill levels across age groups in a fun, high-energy environment.

    🦕 Stego-Stomp for Ages 2–5 w/ Maddy’s Playhouse (Spring Hill)

    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174)
    Time: 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per spot; $5 discount toward open play following class (Sign up here)
    Description: A music-and-movement class for kids ages 2–5 that promotes physical and cognitive development through songs, instruments, and play.

    ⚡ Harry Potter Library Club w/ Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Exhibit Building (1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A themed club meeting for Harry Potter fans hosted off-site at Maury County Park while the library undergoes renovations. Activities are designed for fans who enjoy discussing and exploring the wizarding world together.

    📣 Premier Athletics All Star Showcase (Session 2)

    Location: Premier Athletics Columbia (2505 Pulaski Hwy, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
    Cost: $1 admission (all proceeds support the Cheer Abilities team, Moonchasers)
    Description: An additional showcase session featuring all-star cheer teams, school teams, and parent teams performing a variety of routines. This session offers another opportunity to enjoy performances across multiple age groups and skill levels.


    Saturday, January 17th

    🔧 Washing Machine Bank Workshop

    Location: Lowe’s Home Improvement (2000 Hillary Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Sign up here)
    Description: A hands-on kids workshop where participants build a spinning washing machine coin bank while learning basic construction skills and the concept of saving money. This project-focused activity blends creativity with practical learning and is designed to be fun and engaging for young builders.

    👶 Crawlers & Cruisers (Sitters to Pre-Walkers)

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $20 per family (Sign up here)
    Description: A parent-and-child playgroup for babies who are sitting independently and beginning to explore movement but are not yet walking, typically around 6 to 12 months. Led by an occupational therapist, this small-group session supports early motor milestones through guided play and connection with other caregivers. Advanced registration is required, and the session may be cancelled if there are low sign-ups.

    👶 Rolly Poly (Pre-Rollers)

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: $20 per family (Sign up here)
    Description: A parent-and-child playgroup designed for babies ages 4 to 6 months who are comfortable with tummy time but not yet rolling. Led by an occupational therapist, this small-group session focuses on purposeful play to support rolling development, answer common milestone questions, and help caregivers feel confident supporting early movement skills. Advanced registration is required, and the session may be cancelled if there are low sign-ups.

    🌿 History Hike (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034), Wilhoite Mill Trailhead
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free or optional donation levels available (Sign up here)
    Description: A ranger-led history hike exploring Henry Horton State Park and its connection to the Duck River. The hike covers approximately one mile on natural terrain with some rocky areas and steeper sections. There are no restrooms at the trailhead. Families are encouraged to review the park’s eligibility document or contact the park directly to determine whether this hike is a good fit.

    🎨 Painting with a Twist: “6–7” Canvas Class (All Ages)

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd #14, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: $27 (Sign up here)
    Description: A guided painting class featuring the “6–7” canvas design with step-by-step instruction. This session is open to all ages and skill levels.

    🐶 Puppy Snuggles at Love, Rae Grace Boutique (Spring Hill)

    Location: Love, Rae Grace Boutique (5075 Main St D2, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An afternoon event featuring puppy snuggles with puppies from Plum & Sugar’s litters. Guests can cuddle puppies, shop the boutique, and enjoy special in-store promotions including BOGO half-off charm jewelry and BOGO hair tinsel.

    💚Wicked: For Good Watch Party – All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Love, Rae Grace Boutique (5075 Main St D2, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per person. Seating is limited and advance tickets are recommended. (Sign up here)
    Description: A cozy, come-as-you-are watch party for Wicked: For Good designed for moms and daughters, friends, families, and fans of Wicked. The evening includes pink and green sweet treats, water, and comfortable seating with chairs, floor seating, and mats, plus a small Wicked-inspired photo moment. Guests are welcome to bring blankets. Check-in begins around 5:45 PM. This is not a drop-off event.


    Sunday, January 18th

    Sundays are usually lighter on scheduled events, and today is no exception. While there’s nothing on the calendar, I’ve added a few local indoor options that are open today for anyone wanting something easy and low-key.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is a play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    Kids Fun City Open Play

    Time: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Kids Fun City (1301 S James Campbell Blvd Ste 3, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission applies (Purchase here)
    Description: This can be a good indoor option if you’re looking for a kid-friendly outing during the day. With a variety of play structures, sensory activities, and interactive games, it’s designed to keep toddlers and preschoolers moving and engaged. 


    As always, I hope this guide helps take a little of the planning work off your plate. Schedules and details can change, so be sure to check with the host before attending. If you ever spot something that needs correcting or have an event to share, I’m always glad to hear from you.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 5 – January 11, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of January 5 – January 11, 2026

    Here’s what’s happening for kids in Columbia and Spring Hill as we head into the first full week of January. Below you’ll find a day-by-day look at kid-friendly activities and events happening around town.

    The holidays are officially behind us, and for many families, older kids are back in school for at least part of the week. Schedules are starting to normalize, and a lot of parents are looking to recover from the busy stretch of the last few months.

    If you missed the announcement on social media, this week also marks the first full week of events listed for kids ages 0–12. I made this change to better reflect what this project is becoming. While it originally leaned more toward babies and toddlers, this is meant to be a kids guide overall. Those younger-age events are not going anywhere, but expanding the age range allows me to better support families with older kids as well.

    This shift also helps families with more than one child. While I only have one child myself, I know life changes dramatically once you are juggling multiple ages and schedules. I may not fully understand that stage yet, but my hope is that this guide helps make planning a little easier for those families, even in a small way.

    In addition to these changes for the new year, you will also start seeing a new calendar focused on Parent’s Night Out programs and other drop-off options. I added these listings because, as parents, we all need and deserve a break sometimes, and that can be hard to come by if you do not have family or built-in support nearby. Whether you are hoping for a date night, need a few uninterrupted hours to catch up on things at home, or simply want a short reset, these options can be a helpful resource. Expect listings like PNOs at gymnastics centers, day camps, and special events hosted by drop-in daycare programs.

    With the end of the year also came a lot of new faces following along, and I wanted to take a moment to say welcome. This guide is meant to be a practical, day-by-day resource for parents, and it continues to grow and evolve based on what families actually need.

    A little about me and this guide. I am a local mom putting this together during nap times and late nights. I do my best to keep everything accurate and up to date, but occasionally I miss something or get a date or time wrong. This is currently an unpaid project as I work toward more sponsorship support, so I appreciate your grace and your messages when something needs correcting.

    If you are curious about who is behind it or why I started this project, the About page shares more of that story, and the FAQ covers how the guide works and answers common questions. If you ever have feedback, notice something missing, or have an idea for something you would love to see covered, I would love to hear from you. That invitation applies just as much to longtime readers as it does to those who are new. You are always welcome to send me an email and share your thoughts.

    As always, I hope this guide helps make the week ahead feel a little easier to plan.

    Scroll down or click on a day below for the full calendar with dates, times, costs, and links to help you plan.


    Monday, January 5th

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    👶 Baby Time for Ages 0–2 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Rhymes, songs, books, and lots of bouncing that is just right for your little one. This interactive weekly session is designed for children from birth to age 2 and their caregivers, with a brief playtime included.

    🎶 Music Together® with First Notes Music Winter Session Begins for Ages 0–5

    Location: Columbia Dance Academy (1412 Trotwood Ave #17, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM
    Cost: $160 for one child, $240 for two or more children (Sign up here)
    Description: This class marks the first day of the Winter 2026 Music Together® session, running January 5 through February 25. Music Together® is a family-style music class for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Classes are progressive, and advanced registration for the full session is required. Infants 8 months or younger may attend a Mixed Ages class for free with an older sibling. Siblings ages 6 and older may also attend for free with a registered younger sibling.

    📚 Blizzard Bash Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for off-site story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Blizzard Bash and will feature winter-themed stories, rhymes, and activities designed for kids ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    🛠️ Something BIG Is Coming Lowe’s Kids’ Workshop

    Location: Lowe’s Home Improvement (2000 Hillary Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Lowe’s is sharing an announcement related to their Kids’ Workshops. Details have not yet been released. Families are encouraged to check Lowe’s website for updates and additional information.

    🎨 Messy Zone Mondays: Puffy Paint

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Puffy Paint. Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.


    Tuesday, January 6th

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🎶 Music Together® with First Notes Music Winter Session Begins for Ages 0–5 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Elevate Dance Studio (3525 Kedron Rd, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM
    Cost: $160 for one child, $240 for two or more children (Sign up here)
    Description: This class marks the first day of the Winter 2026 Music Together® session, running January 5 through February 25. Music Together® is a family-style music class for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Classes are progressive, and advanced registration for the full session is required. Infants 8 months or younger may attend a Mixed Ages class for free with an older sibling. Siblings ages 6 and older may also attend for free with a registered younger sibling.

    🚫 Stroller Workouts and Walks

    Cancelled for this week.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    🔎Wonder Station – Wax Resist Artwork

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Wax Resist Artwork. Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🎨 After School Art Break (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Drop by the multi-purpose room for a relaxing, self-paced art activity using different materials each week. Designed for school-aged kids but open to all. No sign-up required. The focus is on creativity, not the final product.

    🐶 K9 Book Buddies 15-Minute Sessions – Registration Required (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: This one-on-one reading program pairs children with certified therapy dogs for a calm, supportive reading experience. Each participant receives a 15-minute session to read aloud to a dog in a nonjudgmental setting. Open to readers of all ages and skill levels. Families should bring their own book. Participants are limited to one session per month.

    🧱 LEGO Club with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Kids can complete a LEGO challenge and spend time building and creating with others during this off-site library program.

    ♟️ LV Chess Club | 4-Week Session for Ages 6–16 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center, Movie Room (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $75 covers all four sessions (Register here)
    Description: This four-week chess club welcomes players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Instruction focuses on building a love for the game while improving skills and encouraging good sportsmanship. Topics include basic rules, tactics, middlegame planning, and endgame technique. Classes are led by experienced chess instructor John Loftus, and all materials are provided. Sessions meet weekly on Tuesdays from January 6 through January 27.


    Wednesday, January 7th

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Play Wednesday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play is available in both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, while the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. A virtual punch card may be available through the front office for additional savings.

    🎶 Music Together® with First Notes Music Winter Session Begins for Ages 0–5 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Elevate Dance Studio (3525 Kedron Rd, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM or 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
    Cost: $160 for one child, $240 for two or more children (Sign up here)
    Description: This class marks the first day of the Winter 2026 Music Together® session, running January 5 through February 25. Music Together® is a family-style music class for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Classes are progressive, and advanced registration for the full session is required. Infants 8 months or younger may attend a Mixed Ages class for free with an older sibling. Siblings ages 6 and older may also attend for free with a registered younger sibling.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    📖 Story Time at Needle & Grain with Molly Wantland

    Location: Needle & Grain (802 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: This week’s story time features guest reader Molly Wantland, a local photographer with Simply M Photography and the owner of Blue Gene Bookshop, available online and at Villages Clubhouse. Molly will share a children’s book, followed by a craft inspired by the story. Parents receive 10% off purchases in the store during the event.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available, including a small obstacle course, trampoline, climbing rope, balance beams, and bars. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    🎮 Pokémon Open Play for All Ages

    Location: Game Knight (119 Nashville Hwy #117, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A relaxed, beginner-friendly Pokémon open play session for kids, teens, and families. Participants may bring Pokémon card decks or a Nintendo Switch to play video games, trade cards, and enjoy casual matches. Staff and experienced players are available to help teach gameplay. Tables are open throughout the event, and this session also serves as Trade Day.

    🐉 Dungeons & Dragons Campaign | 10-Week Session for Ages 11+ (Spring Hill)

    Location: Longview Recreation Center, Movie Room (2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: Wednesday, January 7, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
    Cost: $100 covers all ten sessions (Register here)
    Description: This ten-week Dungeons and Dragons role-playing campaign is designed for players ages 11 and up. Participants take part in a guided tabletop adventure set in the Sword Coast, following the tentative storyline Sleeping Dragon’s Wake. The campaign begins with characters at level 9, and both new and experienced players are welcome. Characters and dice are provided if needed, and players may optionally use D and D Beyond. Sessions meet weekly on Wednesdays from January 7 through March 11.


    Thursday, January 8th

    👶 Baby Open Play Session for Pre-Walkers

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Baby play sessions take place in the Villages Clubhouse Baby Room, designed exclusively for pre-walking infants. The space includes tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys, along with seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists.

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Gym for All Ages

    Location: Discovery Gymnastics (1943 Union Pl, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    Cost: $7 (Sign up here)
    Description: Open play gymnastics for all ages with parents staying on the floor alongside their children. Most equipment is available aside from the four corners and anything not already set up. Kids can explore a small obstacle course, bounce on the trampoline, try the climbing rope, walk the balance beams, and practice on the bars. This is a relaxed way to introduce gymnastics without committing to a class. Participants must create an account to view details and register in advance.

    📚 Blizzard Bash Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for off-site story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Blizzard Bash and will feature winter-themed stories, rhymes, and activities designed for kids ages 0–5. All are welcome.

    📚 Story Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Enjoy children’s books, songs, finger-play, and a craft project. Story time is typically held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday unless there is a holiday or library closure.

    👶 Baby Playdate for Ages 0–18 Months with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A sensory-based playtime for babies ages 0–18 months and their caregivers, with time to connect with other families in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

    🩰 Ballet Class for Ages 3–6 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A beginner-friendly ballet class where kids can learn basic ballet positions and terminology in a fun, welcoming setting. Geared toward ages 3–6 but open to all.

    🐾 PAWS to Read with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Animal Shelter (1233 Mapleash Ave, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Kids can practice reading aloud to shelter dogs during this off-site library program while both the library and animal shelter are under renovation.

    ♟️ Chess Club with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A weekly chess club where participants can learn, play, or teach others. Open to all ages and skill levels.


    Friday, January 9th

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. Sessions feature rotating sensory stations, and you are welcome to stay and play as long as you like. Choose from two time blocks. Advance sign-up is recommended to guarantee your spot, as some timeframes may fill up. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to online cutoff.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym & Ninja Gym for Ages 1–10 (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session includes access to both the main gym and the ninja gym. The main gym is designed for children ages 6 and under, and the ninja gym is open to children ages 1–10. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    🧱 Homeschool LEGO Club (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A monthly LEGO building session especially for homeschoolers but open to all. Meets the first Friday morning September through March, with adjusted dates in January, April, and May.

    🎨 Art History Club Session Begins for Grades K–5 (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: $450 for the full semester or $90 deposit plus four $90 monthly payments (Sign up here)
    Description: Day one of the Art History Club session running January 9 through May 15. Students explore global and contemporary art traditions through videos, reading, discussion, and hands-on art projects connected to weekly topics. Advanced registration for the full session is required.

    🤸 Open Play Friday Main Gym for All Ages (Spring Hill)

    Location: Shining Light Gymnastics (4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
    Cost: $10 per child (Sign up here)
    Description: This one-hour open play session takes place in the main gym and is open to children of all ages. Parents are asked to stay with their children on the gym floor during the session. Payment is accepted by credit card or check. Ask the front office about the virtual punch card for additional savings.

    ❄️ Arctic Critter Clay Creations for Ages 3–12 with Maury County Public Library (Off-site)

    Location: Maury County Park Exhibit Building (1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Kids and families are invited to sculpt an arctic animal using bright, colorful air-dry clay and create a winter scene with snow, icebergs, and imaginative details. This hands-on art program encourages creative play and exploration. Supplies are limited, so arriving early is recommended.

    🦎 Reptile Meet and Greet (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park Campstore (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Date/Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free (optional donation amounts available)
    Description: Kids can meet and learn about reptiles during this hands-on educational program at Henry Horton State Park. This interactive session gives children the chance to see reptiles up close while learning about their habitats and characteristics from park staff.


    Saturday, January 10th

    🎉 Open Play Session New Year Celebration for Ages ≈1–5

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: This New Year’s Celebration open play session is part of Villages Clubhouse’s Second Saturdays, when the space opens on select Saturdays for families. Second Saturdays may include a regular open play session like this one or a special themed event. Families can expect open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5, with rotating sensory stations and the flexibility to stay and play during the session. Second Saturdays are a helpful date to mark on your calendar for future weekend play opportunities.

    🎨 Painting with a Twist | Cozy Cocoa Friends Canvas Class for All Ages

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd #14, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: Saturday, January 10, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: $27 (Sign up here)
    Description: This all-ages guided painting session features the Cozy Cocoa Friends artwork. No prior painting experience is required.

    🔥 Campfire and Cocoa (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park Campstore (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Date/Time: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: $1 per attendee or optional donation levels available (Register here)
    Description: Families are invited to gather around the campfire for an evening of stories and legends about Henry Horton State Park while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. This outdoor program takes place at the campfire ring next to the campstore. Blankets, chairs, and warm clothing are encouraged. Registration is required, and the event is weather dependent. Families should review the park’s eligibility document to determine whether this program is a good fit for their group.


    Sunday, January 11th

    🌅 Sunrise Stroll (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park Visitors Center (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Date/Time: 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
    Cost: Free (optional donation amounts available)
    Description: Families can start the day with a guided sunrise stroll along the park’s greenway trail. This easy, paved walk offers kids a calm way to experience nature in the morning while learning about the park’s landscape and history. The route is approximately 1.5 miles with minimal incline.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is a play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    Kids Fun City Open Play

    Time: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Kids Fun City (1301 S James Campbell Blvd Ste 3, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission applies (Purchase here)
    Description: This can be a good indoor option if you’re looking for a kid-friendly outing during the day. With a variety of play structures, sensory activities, and interactive games, it’s designed to keep toddlers and preschoolers moving and engaged. 


    Thanks for being here. Whether you use this guide to plan your whole week or just find one thing that works, I hope it helps make the days ahead a little easier. A new weekly events post is published each week to help families plan ahead.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of December 29, 2025 – January 4, 2026

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of December 29, 2025 – January 4, 2026

    This week brings a slower rhythm as we close out 2025 and prepare to welcome the new year. With fewer scheduled kids events on the calendar, it feels like a natural pause after a full season of gatherings, celebrations, and busy weeks. This kind of reset can be a gift in itself. A chance to spend time together without rushing, lean into simple routines, and ease into the new year.

    A few notes to keep in mind as you plan your week:

    • Villages Clubhouse is closed for the week, along with many other open play and drop-in style businesses.
    • Several play spaces are offering day camps instead. If you have older kids, you may still be able to find available spots.
    • Many weekly programs and favorites are paused until the new year, so it’s a good idea to double-check schedules before heading out.
    • If you’re looking for Noon Year’s Eve or kid-friendly New Year’s Eve events, I haven’t found any happening in Columbia or Spring Hill this year. If you’re willing to travel or prefer to celebrate at home, I put together a separate Noon Year’s Eve guide with events in Franklin, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, plus simple at-home ideas for families.

    As the year wraps up, I’ve found myself reflecting on how grateful I am for this community that’s grown over the past year. Sharing kid-friendly events began as a practical way to help families plan their weeks, but it’s also become a meaningful way to connect with other parents who are looking for the same things I am. Low-pressure outings, welcoming spaces, and opportunities for our kids to experience their community alongside us. Being able to help build those connections while finding my own sense of belonging has been one of the most unexpected and rewarding parts of this year.

    Looking ahead to 2026, there will be a few thoughtful updates to this guide. One of the biggest changes you’ll begin to see is the inclusion of events for kids up to age 12, alongside the baby, toddler, and preschool activities that have always been the foundation here. That shift starts even in this week’s guide, as I work to reflect the full range of kid-friendly events happening around our community. While the scope is expanding, the heart of this guide remains the same. Helping families find easy, meaningful ways to spend time together and feel more connected right here in Columbia and Spring Hill.

    Scroll down or click on a day below for the full calendar with dates, times, costs, and links to help you plan.


    Monday, December 29th

    📚 Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Frosty Fun, featuring stories, rhymes, and simple activities for young children.

    🎨 Messy Zone Mondays: Shaving Cream Marbling

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Shaving Cream Marbling. Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open regular hours today. A play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    🍫 Chocolate Bar Making & Orange Pomander Craft

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per small chocolate bar. $6 per pomander.
    Description: Drop-in chocolate activities available throughout the day. The Make Your Own Chocolate Bar experience is best for kids ages 2 and up with supervision and can be adapted based on fine motor skills. The Orange and Clove Pomander craft is best suited for kids ages 5 and up, with supervised participation available for younger children ages 2 and up. No advance booking is required, though reservations are available to ensure a specific time. Complimentary spiced cranberry apple cider will be available.

    🎨 Family Painting Event: Snowman Love

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd, Suite 14, Columbia)
    Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: $25 per person. Optional DIY scented soy candle add-on for $20. (Sign up here)
    Description: All-ages family painting event featuring a 16×20 canvas with step-by-step instruction. Guests may bring their own snacks and beverages. Participants adding a candle are asked to arrive 20 minutes early. Class may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met, and advance registration is recommended.


    Tuesday, December 30th

    👟 Stroller Workouts and Walks

    Location: Macedonia Recreation Center (501 Armstrong St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Columbia Parks and Recreation for Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts, a winter fitness meetup for parents and caregivers with stroller-aged children. Stay active and connected during the colder months with a mix of light cardio, simple strength exercises, and relaxed group walking in a comfortable indoor setting at the Macedonia Rec Center. Families can use the gym space for movement and workouts, and kids are welcome to ride along in strollers or play nearby with available bouncy balls and Duplo blocks. No childcare is needed. Just bring a stroller, water, and comfortable clothes. This class is welcoming, low-pressure, and designed for all fitness levels, offering a warm and supportive way to stay active through the winter.

    🔎Wonder Station – Jelly Bean Color Wheels

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Jelly Bean Color Wheels. Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open regular hours today. A play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.


    Wednesday, December 31st

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open regular hours today. A play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    🍫 Chocolate Bar Making & Orange Pomander Craft

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per small chocolate bar. $6 per pomander.
    Description: Drop-in chocolate activities available throughout the day. The Make Your Own Chocolate Bar experience is best for kids ages 2 and up with supervision and can be adapted based on fine motor skills. The Orange and Clove Pomander craft is best suited for kids ages 5 and up, with supervised participation available for younger children ages 2 and up. No advance booking is required, though reservations are available to ensure a specific time. Complimentary spiced cranberry apple cider will be available.

    🎉 Noon Year’s Eve Party at Maddy’s Playhouse

    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy, Suite C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular open play admission applies
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is hosting a Noon Year’s Eve celebration during regular open play hours. Activities include a dance party, balloons and bubbles, snacks, glow sticks, noisemakers, sunglasses, popcorn, and a kid-friendly noon toast. Families can also enjoy a photo opportunity, open play, and a special guest appearance, with a countdown to noon designed especially for young children.

    🧸 aMuse’um Children’s Museum

    Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    Location: aMuse’um (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Sign-up here)
    Description: aMuse’um is a hands-on children’s museum designed for young kids, featuring interactive exhibits that encourage imaginative play. Spaces include a grocery store, doctor’s office, restaurant, and art areas that support fine motor development, social interaction, and creative problem-solving through open-ended play.

    🏃 Kids Bootcamp (Ages 6 & Up)

    Location: Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center (1446 Oak Springs Dr, Columbia)
    Time: 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Membership or day pass required
    Description: Weekly kids bootcamp held every Wednesday at the Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center. This structured, physical education style class is designed for kids ages 6 and up and focuses on staying active while building fitness in a fun, guided environment.

    🎨 All Ages Family Paint Event: Swirly Reindeer

    Location: Painting with a Twist (1202 S James Campbell Blvd, Suite 14, Columbia)
    Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: $27 per person. Upgrades available. (Sign up here)
    Description: All-ages Family Day and Kids Camp painting class on a 16×20 canvas with step-by-step instruction. Children may attend as long as they can sit through a 1.5 to 2 hour class. Parents may sit without purchasing a seat. Guests are welcome to bring snacks and non-hard-alcohol beverages. Arrival 15 to 20 minutes early is recommended. Classes may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met, and advance registration is recommended.

    🍫 New Year’s Eve Party w/ Camellia Chocolates

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: $15 per ticket. 15% discount available for groups of four or more.
    Description: All-ages evening New Year’s Eve gathering featuring curated sweet and savory dishes, a New Year’s intentions activity, and a hot chocolate toast at 9:00 PM as the community reflects and welcomes the new year together.

    🎆 New Year’s Eve Mule Drop (Columbia)

    Location: Historic Downtown Columbia Public Square (Public Square, Columbia)
    Date/Time: 9:00 PM to Thursday, January 1, 12:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Ring in the new year in downtown Columbia with food trucks, live music, and hourly countdowns at 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM, leading up to midnight fireworks and confetti cannons. While this event is open to families, the late hours and large crowd may make it a better fit for older kids and teens rather than very young children.

    Looking for an earlier, kid-friendly way to celebrate the New Year?

    There aren’t any Noon Year’s Eve events happening locally this year, but if staying up until midnight isn’t realistic, I shared a separate Noon Year’s Eve guide with nearby events in Franklin, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, along with simple ideas for celebrating at home.


    Thursday, January 1st

    Happy New Year!

    Many local businesses and organizations are closed or taking a break to start the new year.

    🥾 First Day Hike Morning Hike (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free with optional donation
    Description: Start the new year outdoors with a guided First Day Hike led by a Tennessee State Parks interpreter. This hike follows the Spring Creek and Wilhoite Mill Trail, a scenic route with historical features and natural areas. The trail is approximately 2 miles long and includes stairs and rough terrain, making it better suited for those without mobility limitations. Families, groups, and leashed dogs are welcome.

    🥾 First Day Hike Afternoon Hike (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill)
    Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: Free with optional donation
    Description: Join a Tennessee State Parks interpreter for a family-friendly First Day Hike along the campground trail at Henry Horton State Park. This easy, mostly flat trail is approximately 1.2 miles long and is well suited for families with kids and those with mobility limitations. Trail wheelchairs are available to rent in advance through the camp store. Families, groups, and leashed dogs are welcome.

    🍫 New Year’s Day Brunch w/ Camellia Chocolates

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Not specified
    Description: Special New Year’s Day brunch service featuring house-made dishes and sweets. All ages are welcome. Guests may stop in for a full meal, sweet treats, or to participate in a New Year’s intentions activity.


    Friday, January 2nd

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open regular hours today. A play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    🧸 aMuse’um Children’s Museum

    Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    Location: aMuse’um (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Sign-up here)
    Description: aMuse’um is a hands-on children’s museum designed for young kids, featuring interactive exhibits that encourage imaginative play. Spaces include a grocery store, doctor’s office, restaurant, and art areas that support fine motor development, social interaction, and creative problem-solving through open-ended play.

    🍫 Introductory Chocolate Classes (Ages 8+)

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $45 per participant. Introductory pricing. Price increases on January 31.
    Description: Hands-on bean-to-bar chocolate making experience best suited for ages 8 and up. Participants will make and take home two small chocolate bars. Light refreshments will be provided.


    Saturday, January 3rd

    🛠️ Home Depot Kids Workshop: Tow Truck (Spring Hill)

    Location: The Home Depot (5411 Columbia Pike, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Register here)
    Description: A free in-store kids workshop where children can build a tow truck craft using provided materials. Workshops are designed to encourage hands-on building and creativity. Advance registration is recommended, as kits are available while supplies last.

    📚 Baby Time (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library, Multi-Purpose Room (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An interactive weekly session featuring rhymes, songs, books, and gentle movement designed for babies from birth to 2 years old and their caregivers. A brief playtime follows to encourage early social interaction and learning.

    🥾 Healthy Habits Hike (Chapel Hill)

    Location: Henry Horton State Park Visitors Center (4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034)
    Date/Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free (optional donation amounts available)
    Description: This guided hike is a family-friendly way to get outside together and build healthy habits. Kids can enjoy walking the greenway trail while learning about the park and spending time outdoors with a ranger-led group. The trail is paved with very little incline, making it manageable for families who want an easy morning walk.

    🎮 Pokémon Club (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library, Multi-Purpose Room (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Kids are invited to bring their Pokémon cards to battle and trade with others. Participants may enter their name for a chance to win a pack of Pokémon cards. This program is designed for school-aged children and hosted by Spring Hill Public Library.

    ♟️ Saturday Chess Club In-Person (Spring Hill)

    Location: Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: An in-person chess club open to all ages and abilities. Participants can practice their skills against new opponents using provided chess boards and pieces. An instructor is not always present, but an instructional set is available for learning and practice.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open regular hours today. A play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.

    🧸aMuse’um Children’s Museum

    Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Location: aMuse’um (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Sign-up here)
    Description: aMuse’um is a hands-on children’s museum designed for young kids, featuring interactive exhibits that encourage imaginative play. Spaces include a grocery store, doctor’s office, restaurant, and art areas that support fine motor development, social interaction, and creative problem-solving through open-ended play.

    🍫 Introductory Chocolate Classes (Ages 8+)

    Location: Camellia Chocolates (101 N James Campbell Blvd, Suite 4, Columbia)
    Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    Cost: $45 per participant. Introductory pricing. Price increases on January 31.
    Description: Hands-on bean-to-bar chocolate making experience best suited for ages 8 and up. Participants will make and take home two small chocolate bars. Light refreshments will be provided.


    Sunday, January 4th

    There are no scheduled kids events today. Maddy’s Playhouse is open for open play today.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is a play café offering a clean, cozy space where young children can explore imaginative play areas while parents relax nearby. The environment is designed to encourage social interaction, creative movement, and safe, open-ended play.


    As always, I hope this guide helps make your week a little easier to plan and a little more connected. Whether you’re easing into the new year at home or heading out for a local activity, I’m grateful to share this space with you and your family. Wishing you a peaceful start to 2026 and plenty of small, meaningful moments in the days ahead.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of December 22–28, 2025

    Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of December 22–28, 2025

    This week brings a much quieter and calmer holiday rhythm. You’ll notice several days with no scheduled kids events or activities, which feels fitting for this time of year. After a very full season, this slower pace offers a chance to rest, reset, and enjoy some unstructured time together (and maybe enjoy a holiday present or two). I hope the holiday season has brought warmth and meaningful moments to your family and loved ones.

    If you’re still hoping to fit in a bit of holiday fun, this week brings a couple more chances to catch Santa for a meet and greet before the season wraps up, along with one last opportunity to visit the garden lights at the Polk Home. If you’re looking to celebrate the season this week or even after Christmas, the Columbia TN Christmas Guide continues to be a helpful resource. It includes seasonal light displays and holiday experiences that run beyond Christmas Day.

    My own family has especially loved driving around to the free local light displays in Columbia this season. Even for very young children, it’s been a simple and memorable way to experience the holidays. The lights are bright, colorful, and engaging, and it’s an easy outing that doesn’t require a lot of planning.

    And for those last-minute shoppers, there’s still time to support local businesses. The Kids Gift Guide: Local Gifts and Experience Ideas highlights both experience-based gifts and thoughtfully selected physical gifts chosen with quality and durability in mind.

    A few notes to keep in mind as you plan your week:

    • Villages Clubhouse will offer open play sessions on Monday and Tuesday only. These sessions will run until 11:00 AM and require advance registration. Drop-ins will not be available.
    • I’m confirming holiday hours with several local kid-friendly businesses that don’t have specific events scheduled, so families can still find options for getting out of the house.
    • Several weekly favorites are paused until the new year, so it’s best to double-check details before heading out.

    Scroll down or click on a day below for the full calendar with dates, times, costs, and links to help you plan.


    Monday, December 22nd

    🎅 Santa Meet and Greet at Muletown Pediatric (For patients & their familes)

    Location: Muletown Pediatric Dentistry (1501 Nashville Hwy Suite 102, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Families are invited to stop by Muletown Pediatric Dentistry for a festive Santa meet and greet. This holiday event includes professional photos and a hot cocoa bar and is open to patients and their families. It’s a cheerful, welcoming way for kids to enjoy a seasonal visit with Santa in a familiar setting.

    🎄 Open Play Session

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: Advance registration is required for the December 22 and December 23 sessions. There will be no drop-ins for these dates. Please note these sessions will run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. This week’s theme is Christmas. There’s plenty of space for free exploration, and families are welcome to stay and play throughout their time slot. These sessions are prepared only when families are registered ahead of time. This is not a drop-off program.

    📚 Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)

    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Twinkling Tales, featuring stories, rhymes, and simple activities for young children.

    🎨 Messy Zone Mondays: Spray and Splat Art

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Spray and Splat Art. Hands on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.


    Tuesday, December 23rd

    🚫Open Play Session

    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Description: Cancelled due to no advanced sign-ups.

    🎨 Art Play Drop-in (Spring Hill)

    Location: TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:30 to 11:30 AM
    Cost: $12.50 or part of art play pack (Sign up here)
    Description: Open-ended art and sensory play for ages 2–10 with parent participation required. Kids can explore stations, make take-home projects, paint, and enjoy messy outdoor fun. TN Art Yard also offers preschool, homeschool, and afterschool programs, including a sensory play group for ages 18+ months.
    Note: I wasn’t able to confirm today’s session. It’s a good idea to double-check directly with TN Art Yard before heading out.

    👟 Stroller Workouts and Walks

    Location: Macedonia Recreation Center (501 Armstrong St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Columbia Parks and Recreation for Stroller Workouts and Toddler Hangouts, a winter fitness meetup for parents and caregivers with stroller-aged children. Stay active and connected during the colder months with a mix of light cardio, simple strength exercises, and relaxed group walking in a comfortable indoor setting at the Macedonia Rec Center. Families can use the gym space for movement and workouts, and kids are welcome to ride along in strollers or play nearby with available bouncy balls and Duplo blocks. No childcare is needed. Just bring a stroller, water, and comfortable clothes. This class is welcoming, low-pressure, and designed for all fitness levels, offering a warm and supportive way to stay active through the winter.

    🔎Wonder Station – Sink or Float Christmas Edition

    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Sink or Float Christmas Edition. Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.

    🌟 Garden Lights at the Polk Home

    Location: President James K. Polk Home and Museum (301 W 7th St, Columbia)
    Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: Member admission $5.49. Non member admission $7.12. Children under 3 are free. (Purchase tickets)
    Description: Take a magical evening stroll through the illuminated gardens of the historic Polk Home. Guests can enjoy festive light displays, holiday decor, and a complimentary hot beverage as they explore the grounds. Proceeds support preservation of the museum and its educational programs.


    Wednesday, December 24th

    🎅 SantaLand: Photos with Santa and Santa’s Workshop

    Location: Building Block School for the Arts (1309 S Main St, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: Free entry, $10 and up for photos
    Description: Step inside Columbia’s SantaLand and Santa’s Workshop, hosted by The Building Block School for the Arts in the heart of the Arts District. Guests can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy balloon art, and explore vintage mechanical Christmas display figures collected from around the country. After purchasing a printed photo, guests are welcome to take additional pictures. This long running community event brings classic holiday magic to families through detailed decor, interactive displays, and festive activities.

    🦖 Maddy’s Playhouse Open Play

    Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Location: Maddy’s Playhouse (2001 Campbell Station Pkwy C-12, Spring Hill)
    Cost: Regular admission or membership applies (Purchase here)
    Description: Maddy’s Playhouse is confirmed open on Christmas Eve with adjusted hours. This can be a convenient option if you’re looking for a kid-friendly outing earlier in the day.

    🛝 Kids Fun City Open Play

    Time: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
    Location: Kids Fun City (1301 S James Campbell Blvd Ste 3, Columbia)
    Cost: Regular admission applies
    Description: Kids Fun City is typically closed on Wednesdays but is confirmed open on Christmas Eve with regular hours. This can be a good indoor option if you’re looking for a kid-friendly outing during the day.


    Thursday, December 25th

    There are no scheduled kids activities today. Wishing a Merry Christmas to those who celebrate, and warm holiday wishes to our community.

    Friday, December 26th

    There are no scheduled kids events today, but several local, kid-friendly businesses are open and confirmed with holiday hours. This is also a great chance to get started with any memberships your child received for the holidays.

    aMuse’um: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    Maddy’s Playhouse: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Kids Fun City: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

    Saturday, December 27th

    There are no scheduled kids events today. This can be a good day to recover from the holidays, or, if you’re not quite ready to move on from seasonal fun, several light displays are still operating well into the new year. If the weather cooperates, it could also be a nice opportunity to get outside and visit a local park or trail.

    Several kid-friendly businesses are also open for open play today:
    aMuse’um: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Maddy’s Playhouse: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Kids Fun City: 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM

    If you’re looking for farmers markets, they are still happening. I’ve decided to only include events that are specifically kid-friendly in the guide. If a farmers market advertises activities for children, it will be included in the weekly guide.

    Sunday, December 28th

    There are no scheduled kids events today. Wishing families a restful end to the weekend.

    A couple of kid-friendly businesses are also open for open play today:
    Maddy’s Playhouse: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Kids Fun City: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM


    Whether you’re hoping to catch a final visit with Santa, enjoy a simple outing around Columbia or Spring Hill, or lean into a slower week at home, there are still a few opportunities to make the most of the season. This week leaves plenty of room for rest, flexibility, and low-key plans. Save this post to reference as you plan, and check back soon for more local events and family-friendly guides as we head into the new year.

  • 24 Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas You Can Do in Minutes plus What to Do When You Forget

    24 Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas You Can Do in Minutes plus What to Do When You Forget

    If you need Elf on the Shelf ideas that are quick, free, and actually doable for the next twenty four days, you are in the right place. Elf on the Shelf has been around for years and while it is not new, it is still incredibly popular. There is also a lot of pressure to start this tradition and I will be the first to say that the elaborate Pinterest worthy setups I kept seeing online turned me off to the whole idea. This guide keeps things simple. You will find easy Elf on the Shelf ideas you can do in minutes before bed, a few bonus ideas if you start at Thanksgiving, and helpful tips for what to do when you forget to move the elf.

    If you are thinking about starting Elf on the Shelf this year, you are not alone and it is not too late. And if you are still unsure, there is truly no rush, especially if your kids are very young. After reading the book, I realized quickly that the whole concept is designed for older children who understand the ideas of good and bad behavior, the nice list, and the naughty list. My daughter is two, so she cannot grasp most of that, but here I am giving it a try and creating a resource that parents can use year after year.

    I am keeping it very simple. No elaborate scenes, no late night messes, no pressure to be crafty. Just small, fun ideas that add a little magic without adding stress.

    What Is Elf on the Shelf

    If you are new to Elf on the Shelf, here is a quick overview so you know what you are getting into. A scout elf arrives from the North Pole to watch your child’s activities throughout the day. At night the elf flies back to the North Pole to report to Santa and returns before morning in a new spot. The fun is simply in your child finding the elf each day. Before you start, here are a few important things the book explains:

    • Kids cannot touch the elf. If they do, he loses his magic.
    • You will need to name your elf.
    • The elf reports on good and bad behavior, so it helps if your child understands that concept.

    About the naughty elf scenes you see online. That is not part of the original story. The mischief came later from parents who enjoy creating funny or dramatic setups. It can be something to try when kids are older, but you do not have to start there. Most younger children are happy just finding the elf in a different spot each morning.

    This list is full of easy ideas using things you already have at home, from a stack of books to a laundry basket to a roll of toilet paper. I also included simple solutions for the nights you forget, because it will happen.

    If you are ready to keep Elf on the Shelf simple, fun, and stress free, let’s get started.

    Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

    If you want simple Elf on the Shelf ideas you can set up in under a minute, this list keeps everything easy, free, and stress free using items you already have at home.

    1. Elf Arrival – Place your elf coming out of its box on a mantel, shelf, or table for a simple arrival setup.

    2. Elf Reading a Book – Sit the elf with an open children’s book in its lap like it spent the night reading.

    3. Elf in a Tissue Box – Place the elf peeking out of a tissue box as if it is hiding.

    4. Elf in the Fridge – Sit the elf in the fridge next to the milk or eggs for a cold morning surprise.

    5. Elf with Toothbrushes – Lay the elf beside the toothbrushes like it is reminding everyone to brush.

    6. Elf in a Boot or Shoe – Place the elf inside a winter boot or a child’s shoe like it is staying warm.

    7. Elf Hanging on a Towel Rack – Wrap the elf’s arms over a towel bar so it looks like it is swinging.

    8. Elf in the Toy Bin – Set the elf inside a toy bin or next to a favorite toy as if it was playing.

    9. Elf in the Laundry Basket -Sit the elf on top of towels or peeking out of the laundry basket.

    10. Elf with the Remote – Place the elf next to the TV remote like it stayed up watching a show.

    11. Elf in the Pantry – Put the elf next to cereal or snacks it “tried” to reach.

    12. Elf Coloring – Prop the elf with a coloring book or sheet of paper and one crayon like it was drawing.

    13. Elf in a Cup – Sit the elf inside a plastic cup or mug on the counter.

    14. Elf in the Christmas Tree – Nestle the elf into a Christmas tree branch for a fun morning search.

    15. Elf Holding a Spoon – Prop the elf holding a wooden spoon like it tried to help cook.

    16. Elf in the Bathroom – Sit the elf on the edge of the sink or tub.

    17. Elf on a Stack of Books – Stack a few books and place the elf on top like it climbed them.

    18. Elf Playing Hide and Seek – Place the elf halfway behind a pillow or blanket on the couch.

    19. Elf with a Dish Towel – Sit the elf on the kitchen counter holding a dish towel like it tried to tidy up.

    20. Elf Looking Out the Window – Set the elf on a windowsill looking outside like it is watching for snow.

    21. Elf in the Silverware Drawer – Place the elf peeking out between the forks and spoons.

    22. Elf in the Gift Wrap – Sit the elf in a bag of tissue paper or among wrapping scraps as if it was helping with gifts.

    23. Elf in a Cozy Blanket – Wrap the elf lightly in a dish towel or small blanket like it is resting.

    24. Elf on a Pillow – Place the elf sitting on a decorative pillow like it found a comfy spot.

    What to Do When You Forget to Move the Elf

    Even the most organized parents forget to move the elf at least once, so here are a few easy explanations that keep the magic going without adding pressure.

    The Elf Used Too Much Magic Yesterday
    Tell your child the elf used a lot of magic the night before and needed to rest instead of flying to the North Pole.

    The Elf Was Watching Something Important
    Explain that the elf stayed in the same spot because it had something very important to watch in that room.

    The Elf Didn’t Want to Wake Anyone Up
    Say the elf was ready to fly, but everyone was sleeping lightly, so it waited and ended up staying put.

    The Elf Needed a Quiet Night
    Tell your child the elf needed a quiet night to recharge and didn’t go anywhere.

    Santa Gave the Elf a Night Off
    Explain that Santa told the elf to take a break and stay right where it was.

    The Elf Was Working on a Special Note or Report
    Say the elf spent all night writing something for Santa and forgot to leave.

    The Elf Stayed to Keep an Eye on the House
    Tell your child the elf stayed in its spot to make sure everything was safe and calm.

    The Elf Didn’t Feel Ready to Travel
    Explain that the elf needed one more night to gather its magic before making the trip.

    The Elf Was Having Too Much Fun Where It Was
    Say the elf really liked that spot and wanted to enjoy it for one more night.

    The Elf Thought It Would Be Funny
    Tell your child the elf stayed put to see if anyone noticed or thought it was being silly.

    Bonus Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Thanksgiving Starts

    If your elf arrives around Thanksgiving or you want a few extra simple setups to use throughout the season, these bonus ideas work anytime and use only what you already have at home.

    Elf with a Fall Decoration
    Place the elf beside a small pumpkin, fall leaf, or any autumn decor still out from Thanksgiving.

    Elf Helping in the Kitchen
    Set the elf near a mixing bowl or wooden spoon like it helped with holiday cooking.

    Elf with the Leftovers
    Place the elf next to a closed leftover container in the fridge for a silly surprise.

    Elf at the Dining Table
    Sit the elf in a dining chair as if it joined the family meal.

    Elf Holding a Thankful Note
    Write a simple “I am thankful for you” on a sticky note and place it in the elf’s hands.

    Elf in the Napkin Basket
    Tuck the elf into the basket or drawer where napkins are stored.

    Elf Near the Family Calendar
    Set the elf beside the family calendar like it is preparing for the month ahead.

    Elf Resting After a Busy Weekend
    Lay the elf on a small pillow or folded towel like it needed a post holiday break.

    Elf with Board Games
    Place the elf next to a board game or puzzle box as if it wanted to play.

    Elf in a Mixing Bowl
    Sit the elf inside a clean, empty mixing bowl for a quick and easy setup.


    Whether you are starting Elf on the Shelf for the first time or looking for easy ideas to use year after year, I hope this list keeps the tradition simple and enjoyable. Feel free to save or share this guide so you can come back to it each season.

  • Family Friendly Activities in Columbia TN • Week of November 24–30, 2025

    If you are looking for family friendly activities in Columbia, TN and Spring Hill, here is what is happening for Thanksgiving Week (November 24 to November 30, 2025).

    Thanksgiving week usually comes with a lighter event lineup, and that is true this week. If you are spending more time at home or traveling to see family, I hope the slower pace gives you a chance to enjoy your kids and ease into the season.

    I also want to say how thankful I am for everyone who follows along, sends kind messages, tags a friend, or shares an event they found because of this guide. It means more than you know. I am grateful to share this information with families, and I appreciate every person who checks in week after week.

    This week, instead of event highlights, I want to share something many of you have been asking about: a new toddler soccer option. Soccer Shots has officially launched in Columbia, and winter sessions begin December 6. The program serves ages 2 to 8, and you can get 10% off with the code “NEWLOCATION10” through December 6. I am often asked about sports programs for younger kids, and since this one is new to Columbia, I wanted to make sure it was on your radar. You can view the Columbia registration page here.

    Also, starting Friday, you will see Christmas events added to this weekly guide. It is not going to be overwhelming. I am only including a few opening days and Christmas events happening in Columbia or Spring Hill. Since there is already a full Christmas Guide, and not everyone is interested in holiday happenings, it did not make sense to repeat everything here.

    For anyone looking specifically for Santa photos, there is also a separate Where to Take Pictures With Santa Guide. It is divided by Columbia, Spring Hill, and surrounding areas, and includes specialty options such as sensory friendly visits.

    I hope you all find something that works well for your family this week. Happy Thanksgiving!

    Scroll down or click on a day below for the full calendar with dates, times, costs, and links to help you plan.


    Things to Do With Kids in Columbia and Spring Hill This Week

    Monday, November 24th

    🧸 Open Play Session
    Location:
    Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: This week’s theme is Turkeys. Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. If you miss the 9:00 AM sign-up, you can register for the 10:30 AM slot and arrive anytime. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to the online cutoff. Please note this is not a drop-off program.

    🦃 Thanksgiving Break Camp (Spring Hill)
    Location:
    TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $100 per day (Sign up here)
    Description: School’s out and it is time to make art. This 6-hour camp features colorful fall projects, mixed-media activities, and creative exploration. Kids experiment with different materials, discover autumn textures, and enjoy collaborative and independent art time with guided support. Perfect for young artists who love to imagine, make, and create.

    📚 Story Time with Maury County Public Library (Off-Site)
    Location: Maury County Archives (201 E 6th St, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 to 10:30 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Maury County Public Library at the Archives Building for story time while the main library undergoes renovations. This week’s theme is Into the Den, featuring stories, rhymes, and simple activities for young children.

    Please note that library programs have been somewhat inconsistent lately, so it’s best to double-check their Facebook page or call before attending.

    🎨 Messy Zone
    Location:
    aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Included with play session ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6). Free for members. (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is fluffy cloud dough. Hands-on messy fun that encourages artistic expression, fine motor skill development, and imaginative thinking. Kids will explore new textures and materials while building creativity in a playful, open-ended setting. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.


    Tuesday, November 25th

    🧸 Open Play Session
    Location:
    Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per child or Membership Package (Sign up here)
    Description: This week’s theme is Turkeys. Enjoy open-ended indoor and outdoor sensory play designed for kids around ages 1–5. If you miss the 9:00 AM sign-up, you can register for the 10:30 AM slot and arrive anytime. If arriving after 10:30 AM, on-site ticket purchase is required due to the online cutoff. Please note this is not a drop-off program.

    👶 Baby Open Play Session
    Location: Villages Clubhouse (1127 S High St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $12 per session (Sign up here)
    Description: Designed exclusively for pre-walking infants, the Baby Room at Villages Clubhouse offers tummy time mats, climbing blocks, mirrors, and open-ended toys. Sessions also feature seasonally themed sensory activities and occasional visits from pediatric therapists to support early development. Please note this is not a drop- off program.

    🦃 Thanksgiving Break Camp (Spring Hill)
    Location:
    TN Art Yard (5337 Main St, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: $100 per day (Sign up here)
    Description: School’s out and it is time to make art. This 6-hour camp features colorful fall projects, mixed-media activities, and creative exploration. Kids experiment with different materials, discover autumn textures, and enjoy collaborative and independent art time with guided support. Perfect for young artists who love to imagine, make, and create.

    🏃‍♀️ Stroller Workouts & Walks
    Location:
     Riverwalk Park (102 Riverside Dr, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 to 11:00 AM
    Cost: Free
    Description: A parent-and-child fitness meetup that blends light cardio, strength exercises, and a group stroller walk along the scenic Riverwalk. It’s been confirmed that this will continue as long as folks keep showing up.

    🔎 Wonder Station
    Location: aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia)
    Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free for members; included with admission ($12 per child; one adult free per paid child, additional adults $6) (Reserve a spot)
    Description: Today’s project is Wax Resist Artwork. Wonder Station encourages kids to explore, question, and experiment. Each session introduces fun, hands-on science and problem-solving activities that spark curiosity and help children build observation and critical-thinking skills in a playful, low-pressure environment. This program is included with the regular 10:00–12:30 play session, so the $12 admission (non-members) covers the full playtime.


    Wednesday, November 26th

    No activities scheduled for today. To the best of my knowledge aMuse’um is open today, so it may be a good day to check them out if you haven’t yet.


    Thursday, November 27th

    Happy Thanksgiving! There are no events scheduled today. I hope you enjoy the day with your children and find a quiet moment to reflect on what you are grateful for.


    Friday, November 28th

    🎅 Opening Dat at Holcomb Farm Christmas Trees
    Location: Holcomb Farm (2257 Arthur Hutcherson Rd, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
    Cost: Not specified
    Description: Holcomb Farm offers a true choose and cut tree experience right in Columbia. As Maury County’s only Christmas tree farm, they grow their own trees and also offer pre cut Fraser firs. Families can enjoy hayrides, bonfires, apple cider, hot cocoa, handmade gifts, wreaths, garland, and sweet treats while picking a tree.

    🎄 Hoover Lights Opening Night (Chapel Hill)
    Location: 1390 Neil Road, Chapel Hill, TN 37034
    Time: 5:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Celebrate the opening night of the Hoover Lights 2025 season with a festive computerized Christmas light display. This family friendly kickoff offers a bright, cheerful show that kids and adults can enjoy together.

    🤠 Columbia’s Cowboy Christmas Market
    Location: Baker Building (1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia)
    Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
    Cost: Not specified
    Description: Browse western wear, leatherwork, home decor, candles, trucker hats, cowhides, and authentic turquoise. This festive market highlights handmade goods and unique holiday finds from a variety of local vendors.

    Opening Night for Holly Jolly Festival of Lights (Eagleville)
    Location: Lucky Ladd Farms, 4306 Rocky Glade Rd, Eagleville
    Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
    Cost: General admission ages 2 and up is $16, under 2 free, parking free. Season Pass Member discounts available.
    Description: Walk through nearly a mile of lights and Christmas displays. Enjoy a live nativity with farm animals, character visits, campfires for s’mores, pony rides, face painting, holiday treats, and seasonal shopping. Advance online tickets are required for ages 2 and up.

    🎭 The Gift of the Magi and A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas
    Location: Packard Playhouse (614 N Main Street, Columbia)
    Time: 7:00 PM
    Cost: See ticketing website for pricing
    Description: This holiday double feature brings two classic stories to the stage with live music, period costumes, and a talented local cast. A family friendly performance running over two weekends.


    Saturday, November 29nd

    🤠 Columbia’s Cowboy Christmas Market
    Location: Baker Building (1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    Cost: Not specified
    Description: Browse western wear, leatherwork, home decor, candles, trucker hats, cowhides, and authentic turquoise. This festive market highlights handmade goods and unique holiday finds from a variety of local vendors.

    🎅 Shop with a Cop Pancake Breakfast
    Location: Memorial Building (707 N Main St, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: $10 per ticket
    Description: A community pancake breakfast supporting the Columbia Police Department’s Shop with a Cop program. Santa will be there, making it a festive stop for families. All proceeds help provide local children with a special day of shopping, pizza, and a movie.

    🧸 Home Depot Kids Workshop: Teddy Bear Ornament (Spring Hill)
    Location: The Home Depot (5411 Columbia Pike, Spring Hill)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free (Register here)
    Description: Make a wooden teddy bear ornament during this kid friendly DIY session. Registration is recommended to guarantee a kit.

    🐦 Hummingbird Hollow Farm Market (Spring Hill)
    Location: Hummingbird Hollow Farm (1722 B Dodson Rd, Columbia)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $1 annual family membership required
    Description: Hummingbird Market now operates as a private, members-only venue in response to county zoning requirements. Families can easily become members for just $1 per year, which grants access to all farm events. Enjoy a weekend of seasonal fun on the farm. Visitors can explore local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. Each weekend features seasonal activities, so check their social media page for specifics.

    🥕 Columbia Farmers’ Fresh Market
    Location:
    Riverwalk Park (102 Riverside Dr, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
    Cost: Free entry
    Description: Shop for fresh local produce and artisan goods while enjoying a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere along the river. The market is now open year round, so check them out with their new seasonal hours. An easy, late-morning outing with plenty of space to stroll, snack, and support local farmers.

    🎅 Ornament and Hot Cocoa Bar
    Location:
    ēlia Day Spa (19 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: ēlia Day Spa will host its annual Ornament and Hot Cocoa Bar for Small Business Saturday. Guests may drop in to create an ornament and enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa. No purchase is required. Shoppers who choose to purchase items in the boutique will receive a free gift for every $50 spent, excluding gift certificates and services.

    🎅 Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Hidden Bee Farm
    Location: Hidden Bee Farm (753 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Cost: $10 donation
    Description: Visit Hidden Bee Farm to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos, feed rescue animals, enjoy hot cocoa or coffee, shop local vendors, and take a hayride around the farm.

    🎅 Saturday with Santa
    Location: Treasures Trash an Tiques (2513 Keith Drive, Columbia)
    Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Families are invited to stop by Treasures Trash an Tiques for complimentary photos and snacks with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

    🎅 Free Pictures with Santa
    Location: Corner of 6th and Main, Columbia
    Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Prime and Pint, Living on 6th, and Sweet Maggie Rose are hosting their annual community giveback with free photos with Santa. Families may bring children, pets, and their own cameras for a relaxed photo experience with their long time Santa, now in his fifteenth year.

    🎅 A Maury Christmas Carol
    Location: Cherry Theatre (1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia)
    Time: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
    Cost: Adults $15 + fees; Children $7 + fees (Purchase here)
    Description: Experience a Columbia twist on a classic story as The Building Block School for the Arts presents A Maury Christmas Carol, set in 1937 downtown Columbia. This local production brings holiday nostalgia and community spirit to the stage.

    🎭 The Gift of the Magi and A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas
    Location: Packard Playhouse (614 N Main Street, Columbia)
    Time: 7:00 PM (2:00 PM show is sold out)
    Cost: See ticketing website for pricing
    Description: This holiday double feature brings two classic stories to the stage with live music, period costumes, and a talented local cast. A family friendly performance running over two weekends.


    Sunday, November 30th

    🎅 Brunch with Santa at BoomBozz Craft Pizza and Taphouse (Spring Hill)
    Location: BoomBozz Craft Pizza and Taphouse (2044 Crossings Blvd., Spring Hill, TN 37174)
    Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
    Cost: Santa photo cost not specified
    Description: Families can enjoy brunch and get a picture with Santa without waiting in mall lines. BoomBozz will offer Happy Hour specials starting at 10 AM along with their BoomBucks gift card promotion. Guests who check in on social media and post their Santa photo will be eligible to receive a free kids meal

    🐦 Hummingbird Hollow Farm Market
    Location: Hummingbird Hollow Farm (1722 B Dodson Rd, Columbia)
    Time: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Cost: $1 annual family membership required;
    Description: Hummingbird Market now operates as a private, members-only venue in response to county zoning requirements. Families can easily become members for just $1 per year, which grants access to all farm events. Enjoy a weekend of seasonal fun on the farm. Visitors can explore local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. Each weekend features seasonal activities, so check their social media for details.

    🎅 Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Hidden Bee Farm, Columbia)
    Location: Hidden Bee Farm (753 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia)
    Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Cost: $10 donation
    Description: Visit Hidden Bee Farm to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos, feed rescue animals, enjoy hot cocoa or coffee, shop local vendors, and take a hayride around the farm.

    🎅 A Maury Christmas Carol
    Location: Cherry Theatre (1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia)
    Time: 3:00 PM
    Cost: Adults $15 + fees; Children $7 + fees (Purchase here)
    Description: Experience a Columbia twist on a classic story as The Building Block School for the Arts presents A Maury Christmas Carol, set in 1937 downtown Columbia. This local production brings holiday nostalgia and community spirit to the stage.

    🎅 Singing in the Season
    Location: Knob Creek Baptist Church (2054 Knob Creek Road, Columbia, TN 38401)
    Time: 6:00 PM
    Cost: Free
    Description: Join Knob Creek Baptist Church for an evening of Christmas music celebrating the birth of Jesus. Enjoy performances from local singers and musicians, followed by a time of fellowship with finger foods.


    Whether you are excited to start the Christmas season this weekend or planning to take it slow and enjoy some quiet family time, this week offers a mix of simple, family friendly options. There are local outings, early holiday events, and easy ways to get out and enjoy time together.

    Save or share this guide for easy planning, and check back soon for more kids activities in Columbia, TN and family friendly events throughout Columbia and Spring Hill.

  • Kids Gift Guide: Local Gifts and Experience Ideas in Columbia TN and Spring Hill

    Kids Gift Guide: Local Gifts and Experience Ideas in Columbia TN and Spring Hill

    This guide is all about helping families in Columbia, TN and Spring Hill find meaningful gifts for kids, including both local experience gifts and high quality physical gifts from nearby shops.

    Every year, the holiday gift question seems to start earlier and earlier. What should we get for Christmas? Parents ask it. Grandparents ask it. And often the honest answer is that the house already feels full. Kids have so many things, and adding more at Christmas can feel unnecessary. That is why experience gifts stand out. They give families time together, memorable activities, and something to look forward to long after Christmas morning.

    And when physical gifts are part of the plan, choosing items you can trust for their quality, materials, and purpose feels far better than simply adding another toy to the pile. Thoughtful choices, whether experiences or meaningful items, matter during a season that already brings so much “stuff.”

    Local options for both experience gifts and physical gifts play an important role in supporting small businesses. Shop owners pour their time, resources, and energy into creating something valuable for this community. Their products and services are intentional, family centered, and chosen with care. Without them, Columbia and Spring Hill would not be the same. And while it is easy and convenient to click and ship from big retailers, choosing gifts from nearby shops helps keep our community strong.

    This guide will continue to grow as more local businesses share their details. Several are still getting back to me, and new gift options will be added as they come in. If you know of a place that should be included, I would be grateful to hear about it. Updates will continue throughout the season so this guide reflects as much of our community as possible.

    Together, these ideas offer thoughtful gifts, lasting experiences, and opportunities to support the people who call this area home.

    Jump to:


    Experience Gifts for Kids

    These local businesses offer experience gifts that create memories long after Christmas morning. Many of them provide multiple options and price tiers, making it easy to find something that fits your budget. Several also allow you to purchase a membership or package now and start it later, so the gift begins when the family is ready. From art studios and play spaces to creative classes and memberships, these options give families meaningful experiences without adding more clutter to the house.

    aMuse’um Children’s Museum Gift Cards

    Location: 123 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN

    Description: Gift cards to aMuse’um can be purchased in any amount and make a wonderful experience gift for families with young children. Families can use gift cards toward daily admission or apply them toward a yearly membership. Memberships include unlimited free admission, discounts on general admission for accompanying guests, discounted admission to select museum events, and reciprocal benefits on select levels that offer reduced admission to more than 200 participating children’s museums nationwide.

    Cost:

    • Two of Us Membership: $100 per year
    • Family Membership: $125 per year
    • Family Plus Membership: $150 per year
    • Grandparent Membership: $175 per year

    About: aMuse’um is a hands-on children’s museum designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and imaginative play for kids up to age 8. The museum focuses on offering big opportunities for learning within a small-town, welcoming environment that encourages kids to think, learn, and create.

    Website: https://www.amuseumcolumbia.com/ 

    Note: aMuse’um is also included in the section below for curated physical gifts available in their museum shop.

    Discovery Gymnastics Gift Certificates

    Location: 1943 Union Place, Columbia, TN 38401

    Description: Discovery Gymnastics offers giftable experiences including Parents Night Out events, Open Play sessions, and the option to apply gift certificates toward memberships or classes. The gym serves children from 18 months through the teen years with a wide range of programs that include preschool and recreational gymnastics, ninja classes, tumbling, competitive team options, and summer day camps.

    Cost: Pricing varies by program

    About: Discovery Gymnastics was created to share a love for gymnastics and fitness with children and teens. The gym provides a safe, fun, and encouraging place for kids to discover new skills and grow with confidence. Their instructors are known for being warm, knowledgeable, and committed to helping each child develop at their own pace while building a lifelong love of movement.

    Website: https://www.discoverygym.com/portal/gift-certificates

    First Notes Music Gift Options

    Location: Two convenient locations to choose from
    • Columbia Dance Academy, 1412 Trotwood Ave Ste 17, Columbia, TN 38401
    • Elevate Dance Studio, 3525 Kedron Rd Ste 7, Spring Hill, TN

    Description: First Notes Music offers developmentally appropriate music and movement classes for ages 0 to 5, including Mixed Ages classes for children 0 to 5 and Babies Only classes for infants 0 to 8 months. Each 45 minute class blends singing, rhythm play, movement, and simple instruments in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Families receive an illustrated songbook, digital music access through the Music Together app, and materials that support music making at home. Winter session classes begin in January and feature the Sticks Song Collection.

    Cost: Gift cards can be used toward class tuition, which varies by program

    About: First Notes Music is the only program of its kind in the Columbia, Spring Hill, and Thompson’s Station areas, offering research supported early childhood music education that nurtures connection, confidence, and developmental growth. Classes create a welcoming, playful environment where families can explore music together through singing, movement, and hands on musical play.

    Website: http://firstnotesmusic.com

    Kids Fun City Gift Cards and Memberships

    Location: 1301 S James Campbell Blvd Suite 3, Columbia, TN 38401

    Description: Kids Fun City is an indoor children’s playground offering a safe, clean, and engaging space for kids to climb, explore, and play. Gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $50 to $300 and may be used for day passes or applied toward a membership. The facility features multi-level play structures, interactive games, and sensory activities, making it a fun option for open play, special events, or birthday celebrations.

    Cost: Gift cards and memberships available

    • Gift cards: $50 to $300
    • Membership: $300 and includes discounted visits, credits that never expire, free entry for infants attending with siblings, and walk-in access

    About: Kids Fun City provides a bright, welcoming, and safety-focused environment that encourages movement, imaginative play, and sensory exploration. Children can enjoy active play while parents have peace of mind in a clean, well-maintained space.

    Website: https://www.kidsfuncitycolumbia.com/

    Love Rae Grace Boutique Experience Gift Options

    Location: 5075 Main St D2, Spring Hill, TN 37174

    Description: Gift cards can be used for several hands-on experiences that kids can personalize. These options are creative, memorable, and make a fun outing-based gift for kids who enjoy designing their own style.

    • Hair tinsel is typically best for ages 3 and up and is safe, gentle, and non damaging. Kids can wash, brush, curl, and style their hair normally.
    • Charm Bar jewelry making is recommended for ages 3 and up with parent help and lets kids design necklaces, bracelets, earrings, keychains, Bible charms, and more.
    • Denim Patch Bar is usually great for ages 5 and up, though younger kids can participate with parent help. Kids can bring a jacket or purchase one in the shop and customize it with patches.

    Cost: Varies by service

    About: Love Rae Grace is a Spring Hill boutique centered around interactive, confidence building fashion experiences. The shop offers curated clothing and jewelry, kid friendly gift items like affirmation cards, busy idea cards, lunchbox notes, and small accessories, as well as a party room for children’s birthdays and creative celebrations. They also host the weekly Mom and Me Club on Tuesdays for moms and their preschool age and younger kids with snacks, coffee, parachute play, sensory toys, coloring, and space to connect.

    Website: http://loveraegrace.com

    Maddy’s Playhouse Gift Options

    Location: 2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, TN

    Description: Families can gift a standalone Month Membership that includes unlimited play with no auto renew and no contract. The membership begins when the recipient visits for the first time. Maddy’s Playhouse also offers one time Open Play Passes that allow children to play as long as they like during a single visit.

    Cost:

    • One Month Membership for 1 child: $65.85 including tax
    • One Month Membership for 2 children: $131.70 including tax
    • One Month Family Membership for 3 or more children: $175.60 including tax
    • One Time Open Play Pass: $16.46 per child including tax

    About: Maddy’s Playhouse is a local space designed for babies, toddlers, children, and the grownups who love them. It offers a safe and clean environment with a dedicated toddler area, giving families a nearby place to play, connect, and grow without long drives or disrupted nap schedules. The play structure encourages movement and creativity and is suitable for children from newborn through age 10.

    Website: https://www.maddysplayhouse.com

    Marigold Bread Co Gift Options

    Location: Columbia, TN

    Description: Marigold Bread Co offers hands-on baking classes that kids and parents can enjoy together. The upcoming Mom and Me Baking Classes are generally geared toward ages 3 and up and include 1.5 hours of baking, decorating, and tasting. Families make sourdough chocolate chip cookies and sourdough sugar cookies using dye free icing and sprinkles, and each participant takes home a half dozen cookies created in class. These sessions offer a sweet and memorable experience for kids who love to help in the kitchen.

    Cost: Gift cards can be used toward baking classes and workshops, with pricing varying by class

    About: Marigold Bread Co is owned by China, a local baker who prepares organic sourdough baked goods including breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and muffins. She also offers beginner sourdough workshops for adults that include take home dough, a mixing bowl, spatula, bread lame, sourdough starter, and access to her beginner’s guide. Everything is made with care and high quality ingredients, creating a warm and welcoming experience for both children and adults.

    Website: https://www.hotplate.com/marigoldbreadco

    Par4 Virtual Golf Gift Cards

    Location: 421 W 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401

    Description: Gift cards to Par4 Virtual Golf make a fun, flexible experience gift for families, especially during the holidays when seasonal gift card sales are available. Gift cards can be used toward hourly play in either of Par4’s two self-service bays, featuring ProTee VX launch monitors and GS Pro software with more than 400 courses, themed games like Candy Land and dinosaur adventures, putt putt challenges, and kid-friendly practice modes. The space is suited for kids ages 2 and up, though younger children will need adult assistance. Each bay accommodates up to six players at one flat rate, making it an easy choice for families. Gift cards can also be used toward memberships that offer 24/7 access and booking discounts or applied toward private facility rentals for birthday parties and special events.

    Cost:

    • Off-Peak Hours (8am to 4pm): $30 per hour for up to 6 players
    • Peak Hours (4pm to midnight): $40 per hour for up to 6 players

    About: Par4 Virtual Golf is a family-friendly entertainment space that blends virtual golf, creative themed games, multiplayer challenges, and flexible play options in a weatherproof environment. With memberships, private rentals, and hourly bookings, it offers a unique play experience for both kids and adults.

    Website: https://www.par4virtualgolf.com/

    TN Art Yard Gift Options

    Location: 5337 Main Street, Spring Hill, TN 37174

    Description: Families can give the gift of hands-on creativity with a TN Art Yard gift card or play pass. Gift cards are available in any denomination and can be used toward classes, camps, and art play sessions. Play passes offer a discounted set of art play visits and are ideal for families who enjoy returning throughout the season. Parent and child art classes begin at 18 months. Art Play sessions are designed for ages 2 and up and are parent assisted, child led, and offered as drop in options so families can participate without committing to a full class series.

    Cost: Gift cards are available in any amount. Play pass pricing varies based on the number of sessions included.

    About: TN Art Yard is a process-focused art studio where children learn through hands-on exploration. Each class is student led and centered on creativity, experimentation, and open-ended learning. Kids can explore sensory stations, a play dough table, a makers space, a painting room, and a variety of ever-changing materials curated to spark imagination and creative thinking. The studio is designed to be a place where children can make messes, try new ideas, and connect with one another in a positive, uplifting environment.

    Website: https://www.tnartyard.com

    Villages Clubhouse Holiday Gift Packages

    Location: 1127 S High St, Columbia TN 38401

    Description: Give the gift of play with a Villages gift package. Each holiday package includes unlimited open play and full access to the toy library for the length of the package. Families can purchase a gift card in the amount that matches the package they want to give. The recipient can redeem it whenever they choose and start their membership on any future date that works best for them. Customized gift graphics are available for anyone who wants a more personal presentation when gifting.

    Cost: Multiple package options are available to suit different budgets, including:

    • 1 Month Package: $50
    • 2 Month Package: $100
    • 3 Month Package: $150
    • 5 Pack Play Pass also available

    About: Villages Clubhouse is home to Villages Child Development, Firefly Garden Club and Blue Gene Books. It is a warm, welcoming, and inclusive space for young children and their families to play, learn, and connect. Villages offers in-home therapy services from birth to age 5, while the Clubhouse offers open play sessions, baby play, developmental playgroups, a toy library, seasonal workshops/events & support groups.

    Website: https://www.villageschilddevelopment.com/gift-card

    Shining Light Gymnastics Open Play & Open Ninja Passes

    Location: 4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174

    Description: Shining Light Gymnastics offers Open Play and Open Ninja passes for children ages 6 and under. These passes can be purchased online and may work as a gift option for families who enjoy active indoor play, though it is not fully clear whether they are designed to be gifted. Open Play and Open Ninja sessions give young children a safe space to climb, jump, and explore through movement based play. Single visit passes, multi-visit bundles, and unlimited monthly or yearly access are available.

    Cost:

    • Single Day Pass: $10
    • 5-Pass Pack: $40
    • 10-Pass Pack: $70
    • Family 10-Pass Pack: $80
    • Monthly Unlimited: $40 per month
    • Yearly Unlimited: $480

    If you plan to use passes as a gift, consider contacting Shining Light Gymnastics directly to confirm how their online pass system works for gifting.

    About: Shining Light Gymnastics provides a welcoming and encouraging environment where young children can build coordination, confidence, and strength through active play. Their Open Play and Open Ninja options offer safe, structured opportunities for movement and exploration.

    Website: https://www.shininglightgym.com


    Local Shops Offering Kids Gifts

    These local shops offer high quality physical gifts for kids, including books, toys, clothing, creative kits, and meaningful items chosen with care. Shopping locally gives families the chance to receive personalized help from business owners who know their products and truly care about the families they serve. These stores are run by people who live in our community, understand what local families need, and intentionally choose items that reflect those values. Supporting them keeps our community strong and helps preserve the character that makes Columbia and Spring Hill such special places to raise children.

    aMuse’um Children’s Museum Toy Shop

    Location: Available in-store at aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN)

    What You’ll Find: The aMuse’um toy shop offers a curated selection of high quality gifts for babies, toddlers, and young children. Families will find magnetic games, puzzles, puppets, imaginative play sets, and beautifully made toys that support creativity, storytelling, and hands-on learning. Featured brands include Crocodile Creek, The Puppet Company, and Hape, with options across a wide range of ages and budgets.

    About: aMuse’um Children’s Museum is dedicated to helping kids think, learn, and create through hands-on play. Their toy shop reflects this mission with educational toys and activities chosen for their quality, creativity, and developmental value.

    Website: https://www.amuseumcolumbia.com 

    Baxter’s Mercantile of Columbia

    Location: 808 South Garden Street, Columbia, TN 38401

    What You’ll Find: Baxter’s Mercantile is a kid friendly gift shop located just off the downtown square. Families will find a wide variety of children’s toys and gifts including old world and vintage toys, 3D printed creatures and animals, crochet toys, blankets, and critters, children’s clothing and hair bows, children’s jewelry, candy, and even magic supplies for aspiring magicians. The shop also carries Christmas ornaments, figurines, décor, and plenty of seasonal surprises. Kids are encouraged to explore, and the store offers free gift wrapping along with shopping assistance for children picking out gifts for family and friends.

    About: Baxter’s Mercantile is a locally loved shop known for its warm, whimsical atmosphere and its commitment to supporting local makers. The store features Rocky’s Ice Cream Candy and Soda Shop, serving ice cream made in Chapel Hill by Nash Family Creamery. With its mix of nostalgic toys, handmade items, candy, and holiday charm, Baxter’s Mercantile is a one stop shop for Christmas gifts for both kids and adults.

    Website: https://www.baxtersmercantileofcolumbia.com/ 

    Blue Gene Bookshop

    Location: Available online and locally at Villages Clubhouse

    What You’ll Find: Blue Gene Bookshop offers a unique collection of children’s books for ages 0 to 10, including board books, picture books, early readers, and thoughtfully illustrated stories. Each title is intentionally selected for quality, creativity, and meaningful storytelling. Custom recommendations are always welcome for families looking for a special read or a book chosen specifically for a child’s interests.

    About: Blue Gene Bookshop is named after the owner’s beloved grandmother, Gene, and is rooted in a deep love of children’s literature. Every book is chosen with care and purpose, focusing on stories that spark imagination, connection, and joy. The shop offers a warm, personal approach to helping families discover books they will treasure for years to come.

    Website: https://bluegenebooks.com

    Bumblebee Bins

    Location: Available online and locally at Villages Clubhouse

    What You’ll Find: Bumblebee Bins creates themed sensory playdough bins and jars designed for kids 18 months and older. Each set features homemade, non toxic playdough paired with thoughtfully chosen loose parts that encourage imaginative, calming, and open ended play. Bins make great gifts for toddlers and preschoolers, while jars are perfect stocking stuffers. Subscription options are also available and make an excellent recurring gift that keeps playtime fresh throughout the year. Custom requests are welcome.

    About: Bumblebee Bins is a local small business built around the idea of offering families “the gift of peace through creative play.” Each bin and jar is created with intention, focusing on hands-on exploration, creativity, and sensory learning.

    Website: https://bumblebeebins.com

    Duck River Books

    Location: 12 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401

    What You’ll Find: Duck River Books is a locally owned bookstore offering a curated selection of new and used books for all ages. Families will find a dedicated children’s section toward the back of the shop with titles ranging from Little Golden Books to chapter books for older kids and teens. Seasonal books are displayed at the front of the store and highlighted again within the children’s area, making it easy to browse festive picks during the holidays. Their online shop offers additional browsing options and makes it simple to order gifts or check availability.

    About: Duck River Books opened in 2012 after the owners were inspired during a visit to the Library of Congress. They relocated to Columbia with the goal of building a neighborhood bookshop rooted in community and connection. The store’s name honors the Duck River, an important ecological landmark in Maury County, and reflects their belief that bookstores nourish a community much like a river sustains the land around it. Today, Duck River Books continues to serve as a welcoming spot for book lovers of all ages.

    Website: https://shop.duckriverbooks.com/

    Lily Jane

    Location: 40 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401\

    What You’ll Find: Lily Jane is a children’s boutique in downtown Columbia offering thoughtfully curated gifts, clothing, toys, books, and accessories for babies through young kids. Families will find high quality apparel, storybooks, puzzles, plush toys, and baby essentials, with many items available for online purchase and local shipping. The shop also welcomes special orders for those looking for something specific.

    About: Lily Jane was originally founded in 2008 and named in honor of the founding owner’s grandmother. Today it continues to carry forward that legacy by offering meaningful, well chosen gifts that celebrate childhood and support families in the community. The boutique’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and curated selection make it a favorite stop for baby gifts, birthday surprises, and seasonal items.

    Website: https://www.lilyjanecolumbia.com/

    Needle & Grain

    Location: 802 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401 

    What You’ll Find: Needle & Grain offers a thoughtfully curated selection of children’s books, puzzles, wooden toys, Cuddle and Kind dolls, Maileg toys, kids’ accessories, and Quincy Mae apparel. The shop also features a refill station with home cleaning products and hosts bi-weekly storytimes for families. Items can be purchased online or in-store, with local pickup available. The team is always happy to special order items or bring in new product lines based on customer interest.

    About: Needle & Grain is a handmade home goods business rooted in family tradition and purposeful living. What began as a small effort to preserve quilting and woodcraft has grown into a mercantile focused on meaningful, long-lasting goods for families. Their philosophy centers on intentional choices that support your home, health, wellbeing, and finances. Every item in the shop is selected with care and purpose, reflecting a commitment to serving the community with products they use and love themselves.

    Website: https://needleandgrain.com

    Sew Chique Embroidery

    Location: Available online with local pickup in Columbia, TN (website, Instagram, and Facebook ordering)

    What You’ll Find: Sew Chique Embroidery offers personalized embroidered gifts for babies and kids, including holiday shirts, spirit wear, birthday outfits, name tees, and other custom clothing and accessories. Each item is made with high quality materials and stitched with care, creating meaningful gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and special occasions. Custom orders are welcome.

    About: Sew Chique Embroidery is a small, faith-rooted business based in Columbia that specializes in thoughtful, personalized pieces designed to help families celebrate memories and milestones. Every order is created with intention, offering families unique, custom embroidered items their children will treasure.

    Website: https://www.sewchiqueembroidery.com


    Why Supporting Local Matters

    Choosing gifts for kids does not have to feel overwhelming. Whether you prefer experience gifts that create memories or high quality items from local shops, Columbia and Spring Hill offer plenty of options that families can trust. Supporting these businesses keeps our community strong and gives children gifts that feel meaningful long after the holidays.

    And as more brick and mortar shops have closed in recent years, it feels more important than ever to support the places that remain. These local businesses are part of what makes this community feel like home, and every purchase helps keep them here for the families who love them. No matter which direction you choose, these local ideas make Christmas shopping easier, more intentional, and rooted right here where we live.