See out winter in style with February half term family events across Tyne and Wear

The weather has been freezing cold lately but our museums and galleries are to host a series of heart-warming family events this February half term so you can enjoy the last days of winter. In Newcastle, Great North Museum: Hancock will play host Bjorn the Polar Bear and his keeper Ursula on Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February. Come nose to snout with a life size polar bear ‘pod puppet’ - he walks, he growls and you may even get to stroke him! There’ll also be the chance to make your own bird-box (Monday 16 February, £3 per box) and meet a scientist to experiment with the basics of astrophysics (Thursday 19 February). Discovery Museum is celebrating Chinese New Year on Tuesday 17 February – learn Chinese calligraphy, take part in dance workshops and get your face painted with the animals of the Chinese zodiac (£2 for face painting). Back by popular demand, The Snow Queen’s Coronation Ball returns to Discovery’s Great Hall on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 February. Take your little princesses and princes on a magical journey they'll never forget. Tickets must be booked online in advance at www.discoverymuseum.org.uk, costing £15 per child with one accompanying adult. Extra adults cost £6. There’s a packed programme of activities across our three art galleries. The Laing Art Gallery is running a three-day art school for 11-15 year olds on Tuesday 17, Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19. It’s £50 per child and all materials are provided. Book online at www.laingartgallery.org.uk. The art attack doesn’t stop there! The Hatton Gallery is offering a free drawing workshop for GCSE, AS and A2 students on Wednesday 18 February. Reserve a place on (0191) 208 6059. To find out more about these events and other activities taking place throughout the holidays across Tyne and Wear, visit: www.twmuseums.org.uk