There comes a time when you realize there are a lot of things you've never had a chance to do.  You've never painted with artichokes, run with the salmon, tasted garlic ice cream or spent a little face time with a llama.  But as sure as Mel Gibson has kicked sand in many faces, you are determined not to miss this year's Sand in the City. Washington state's largest sand sculpting event with 240 tons of sand, nationally known sand sculptors, 40 different hands-on art and science activities and a live entertainment stage are all held in downtown Olympia. All proceeds from Sand in the City directly support the Hands On Children's Museum's free and reduced admissions program. Show up with a shovel, a bucket and an idea.

SAND IN THE CITY, Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., special events here, free, Hands On Children's Museum, 414 Jefferson St. NW, Olympia, 360.956.0818