February 18

Presidents’ Day at the Chicago History Museum

A live brass band, crafts, and a biographical play about the Lincoln family bring the American presidency to life for families everywhere — but most happily for Illinoisans, who get in gratis. 10 a.m. 1601 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park

February 23

Engineering Fest

This year’s edition of the daylong event allows your kids to unleash their inner Burnham or Cobb, reimagining the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition through crafting. 10 a.m., Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr., Loop

Every Saturday

Kids’ Pokémon League

You still might not know what the hell a Pikachu is, but your young Pokémon master in training will be sure to find this recurring event electrifying. (Note: Cards are not provided.) 10 a.m. Cat & Mouse Games, 1112 W. Madison St., Near West Side

Every second Saturday of the month

Origami Open House

Make a whole flock of paper cranes — or a bunch of dinosaurs, or a few flowers, or a decorative box — with the help of the Chicago Area Origami Society. 1 p.m. $5 donation. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., East Garfield Park

March 17

South Side Irish Parade

A zero-tolerance policy for outdoor drinking makes this event, one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations outside of Dublin, a family-friendly alternative to the raucous downtown parade. Noon. Western from 103rd to 115th, Beverly

March 22

Good Food Expo

Day two of this two-day extravaganza celebrating local and sustainable food includes a kids’ corner to occupy your little one while you sample different colors of Swiss chard. 10 a.m. UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd., University Village