Today. Kids can experience a woodland scavenger hunt during the “Hike & Seek” fundraiser for the National Wildlife Federation. It should take families no more than three hours to trek this 1-2-mile, go-your-own pace hike in Littleton’s South Platte Park. Collect stamps and stickers from five “Stop & Study Stations,” then regroup at base camp for snacks, crafts and photos with NWF mascot Ranger Rick. Kick-off is at 9 a.m. at South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center, 3000 W. Carson Drive, Littleton. Day-of registration is $9-$15. Details at .
Spooky season warm-up
Sunday. Costumes are encouraged for “The Not So Haunted House” fall celebration at the historic Pearce-McAllister cottage, which is home to the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys. A $1 donation will net attendees four hours of games, crafts, face-painting and more. Noon to 4 p.m., 1880 Gaylord St.,
Foot-stomping fun
Sunday. Balistreri Vineyards and Tagawa Gardens teams up for a Children’s Grape Stomping event. The yield is used to produce Balistreri’s Little Feet Merlot, which parents can pre-purchase on site. A portion of the proceeds also benefit Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation. Admission is free. Noon to 2 p.m. 7711 S. Parker Road., Centennial. balistrerivineyards and .
Write it right
Through Oct. 14. Middle-school-aged writers are invited to submit short stories for the 2011 StoryMakers contest hosted by Rocky Mountain PBS and sponsored by CenturyLink. Finalists receive prizes, spend a day working with educators to hone their writing skills, and are treated to a luncheon featuring Colorado author Judith Snyder. Nearly 3,500 youths have participated since the contest started five years ago; another 800 entries are expected this year. Contest, rules and entry forms are available at under the “Kids & Family” tab.
Sheba R. Wheeler, The Denver Post
