By Haley Neil
February break is a standard practice in Massachusetts. But while local students have a week off, most kids in the United States are still in school. So why does Massachusetts have this winter break?
There are several reasons this might be the case. February is the height of flu season. The weather is cold, and schools could save money by not heating their buildings. Or possibly it is because students and teachers need a break. All of these sound perfectly reasonable.
The most likely reason why Massachusetts and select other spots in the Northeast have this break is because of tradition. The precedent for having a February break in Massachusetts is over a century old, with a Boston Globe article from 1916 mentioning this vacation. The tradition lives on, with many local families taking the time to arrange ski trips, warm getaways, and family visits.
Staying in town this February break? You’re not alone! The Wayland Free Public Library has an entire lineup of events to keep families entertained. Little ones will love meeting Obie the dog, a beautiful, award-winning Samoyed. Storytime with Obie will happen on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 10:30 a.m. That afternoon, elementary-aged kids are welcome to come and craft during Get Inspired!, a monthly art series. This month, kids will be inspired by modern artist Ruth Asawa.
Looking to celebrate? The library will be hosting two parties during vacation week. On Wednesday, Feb. 18, kids are invited to a KPop Demon Hunters Party. There will be crafts, pattern face painting, and movie-inspired temporary tattoos, Korean snacks, and karaoke. It’s gonna be, gonna be golden! Then on Friday, Feb. 20, kids can try to catch ‘em all at the WFPL’s Pokémon Party. There will be a craft, a themed scavenger hunt, and space for card trading.
Interested in games? On Thursday, Feb. 19 from 2–3 p.m., kids ages 9 and up are invited to an outer space-themed “Escape the Rogue Planet” escape room at the library, run by Wicked Fun Games.
Ever gotten the urge to play hide and seek in the library? Teens and tweens are invited to live out this dream at WFPL during an after-hours event on Friday, Feb. 20. The library will stay open for an extra hour for players in grades 6-12.
No need to stay cooped up inside all winter break. The library is here for you!
