See you later, alligator
July 14: The Wild World of Reptiles Snakes, lizards, turtles, and even crocodiles are creeping their way to Rhinebeck’s Center for Performing Arts. Professional outdoorsmen bring these scaly creatures into the audience for an up-close look while explaining how they live in the wild. At the end of the show, people have the opportunity to pet the animals — and the bravest can even wrap a snake around themselves. 11 a.m. $9, $7 children. • 661 Rte. 308, Rhinebeck. 845-876-3080 or www.centerforperformingarts.org
Time to shine
July 16-20: Sparkling Science It’s almost scientifically proven that girls love glitter. But how many girls actually know the science involved in making glitter? This weeklong camp explores the components of all things shiny, especially gemstones. Savvy scientists also mix up their own sparkling lotions and finger paints. Ages 5-7. 9 a.m. $225. • The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology. 250 Jordan Rd., Troy. 518-235-2120 or www.cmost.org
Hanging out
July 21: Bats Hang with some bats and discover how they live here in the Valley. Learn the different foods they eat, their favorite places to fly, and where they settle in to sleep. Then take all this info and use it to help build your own bat house. Preregistration required. 10 a.m. $7, $5 children, $15 for bat house. • Hudson Highlands Nature Museum. 100 Muser Dr., Cornwall. 845-534-5506 or www.hhnaturemuseum.org
Raise your voices
July 27-29: Young People’s Vocal Arts Program If you have the next Justin Bieber or Taylor Swift at home, this weekend of song will get them ready for that big audition. Young stars learn the intricacies of music — such as harmony, rhythm, and ensemble singing — through theater games and activities. Bring your video camera to capture their moment in the spotlight at the performance finale. Ages 7-12. Call or visit Web site for exact schedule. $200. • Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice. Phoenicia. 845-688-1344 or www.phoeniciavoicefest.org
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Let freedom ring!
July 4: Old Fashioned Independence Day Step back in time to experience what our country’s original Independence Day would have been like. Join a reenactment group — all dressed in long skirts and tricorn hats — for Colonial era games and food. Hop up on stilts and attend a Revolutionary Ball. Grab a good spot on the lawn to watch the Saugerties fireworks over the Hudson River. 2 p.m. $10 per car. • Clermont Estate. 1 Clermont Ave., Germantown. 518-537-6622 or www.friendsofclermont.org
