Top 5 Things to do this week in The Woodlands

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Welcome to the first week of April. Now that Easter is behind us, you may be looking for something else to do.

Curious about one of the best college preparatory schools in The Woodlands? Wonder no more by attending The John Cooper School's PK-12 Admission All School Tour at 10 a.m. Wednesday April 4. Faculty, administrators and admission office representatives will be on hand to answer your questions and tour you through the school, which has grown significantly since opening its doors in 1988. No reservations required, so just show up at One John Cooper Drive, located between Woodlands Parkway and Flintridge.

We often see "Spirit Nights" for our schools to benefit kiddos in the community, but what about our furry friends? Go out for a family friendly dinner Wednesday April 4 from 4 p.m. to close at Willie's Grill & Icehouse, 16846 I-45 South. Simply mention that you're dining to support Operation Pets Alive, and Willie's will donate 15 percent of your total check to OPA. The nonprofit organization is an all-volunteer group with the goal of elevating Montgomery County to a no-kill community.

Learn a cool skill, participate in games and contests, give something new a try or just do it for fun. Open Gym night at Maximum Gymnastics, 25810 Sweetgum Road, is also a great way for kids 5 to 16-years old to expend some energy after a long week at school. Open Gym is 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Friday April 6. Save a few bucks by registering in advance: $15 in advance or $18 day of the event. Call 281-419-3547 for more info.

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is back and better than ever. Stroll the Waterway Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8 ,and lose yourself in the unique talents of more than 200 artists from across the country. Brought to you by The Woodlands Arts Council, the Festival is now in its 13th year and is ranked one of the top in the nation. It also includes five entertainment stages, and food and beverages, at Town Green Park. The entire area is basically transformed into an outdoor art gallery. Get your tickets here!

If you'd rather run than stroll, check out the 11th annual TWFG Muddy Trails Bash 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday April 7 at Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive. This USA Track and Field-sanctioned event features chip-time 5K and 10K trail runs, the Little Muddy Kids' One-Mile Fun Run, and a 2K-9 Fun Run for you and your dog. Produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department, all courses take you through the George Mitchell Preserve. Celebrate the end of the race with live music and a crawfish cook-off. Register here!