Catharine Williams and Athena Andrews love to play dress up; James Andrews gets excited about Civil War relics and Paige Davis enjoys hanging out with her cousin — all activities the children got to do on a Saturday morning in downtown Port Arthur.

About 50 children signed up for “Abrakadoodle,” Free Family Fun Day at the Museum of the Gulf Coast, where there was something to interest all ages, young and old alike to do on the weekend.

The April Family Fun Day focused on the quilting exhibit in the Dunn Gallery, but offered activities as varied as a scavenger hunt, science experiences, arts and crafts, and a movie, just to name a few.

“There’s always a lot to do,” Stephanie Harren, Museum education and tour coordinator, said. “Families can get together and have a family outing day, while those visiting the museum for the first time can get in for free and see what we have and hopefully come back.
Javaughn Mickens, 23, of Port Arthur was a first-timer, and plans to come back.

On Saturday, she brought her 7-month-old baby, Khalil Mickens; and her two nieces, Jaidence Graham, 4; and Jaidence Graham, 1.

“I’ve been stuck in the house lately, was reading the newspaper and saw this event. I thought I might as well take the kids and get out,” Mickens said as she helped the children craft squares to go on the Museum of the Gulf Coast quilt that will be on display in the Dunn Gallery.

Through June 4, the Museum will display the Texas State Quilts exhibit. On Saturday, along with the children’s activities, adults were took advantage of the guest speaker Marcia Kaylakie, a professional quilter and expert on historic quilts and appraiser. Special guests were also available to demonstrate spinning, weaving and quilting — all scheduled in conjunction with the Texas State Quilts exhibit on display in the Dunn Gallery through June 4.

For Adrienne Lott, 41, of Port Arthur; her daughter 7-year-old Taryn Lott and her niece, Paige Davis, 7; it was all about family.

“They both like arts and crafts and like movies, so it gave us a fun activity for a Saturday morning,” Lott said while watching the girls make cardboard dolls with yarn hair.

“I like to do arts and crafts, but mainly I like hanging out with my cousin,” Paige said.

For James Andrews, 10, of Groves, the day was less about arts and crafts as it was about learning.

“I’m excited about the Civil War stuff downstairs and like sports. I saw Jamaal Charles and Bum Phillips too,” James said.

His mother, Crystal Jordan was glad to see activities for all ages.

“Usually at most events there is not a lot for some of the older kids, but here it looks like most of the activities are for both age groups, young children and the older ones,” Jordan said.

The next Free Family Fun Day is scheduled for July 9, and will center on the space and Nasa exhibit.

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