1. Mammal jams
The Columbia River attracts more than fish, amphibians and waterfowl. There’s an abundance of mammals that call the Columbia watershed home, including beavers, river otters and pika — bunnylike creatures that thrive in the Columbia Gorge’s rocky landscapes. Mammals of the Columbia, on Jan. 12, allows families to learn more about local mammals with hands-on activities and kid-friendly presentations. Second Saturday is a free monthly event, held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 Columbia Way, Vancouver. It is perfect for children ages 3 to 12 and their families. 360-487-7111 or visit www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter
2. Historical hops
Clark County Historical Museum unites history and hops at “History on Tap,” a series of evenings featuring historical talks, trivia quizzes, a Q&A with historian Pat Jollota and a selection of local brews. The inaugural event — “From Lucky to Loowit: The Fall of Lucky Lager and the Rise of the Craft Brewing Industry,” presented by Steve Bader of Bader Beer and Wine Supply and showcasing craft beer from Loowit Brewing — is at 7 p.m. Jan. 17, at the Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Doors open at 6 p.m. for mingling and brew-sampling. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door. 360-993-5679 or kigginstheatre.com/movies/history-on-tap
3. Pitch-a-sketch
Ready for some belly laughs? Magenta’s improv troupe will tickle your funny bone during its first show of 2019 at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12, with a seasonal focus on “Regifting and Relatives.” This is a family-friendly comedy show that’s different every time, with improv artists performing sketches and playing games based on audience suggestion in the style of “Whose Line Is It, Anyway?” Doors open at 7 p.m. so guests can get lights snacks, beer and wine in the lobby. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door of the theater, 1108 Main St., Vancouver.
4. Bet on it
See star athlete Troy and super-smart GabriElla sing and dance their way into starring roles in their high school musical in “High School Musical,” the musical about … a high school musical … featuring actual high school students. What’s not to love? The Union High School production of Disney’s hit Broadway show (and movie trilogy) debuts at 7 p.m. on Jan. 11, with additional performances on Jan. 12, 17, 18 and 19, plus a matinee at 2 p.m. Jan. 12. Performances are at Union High School, 6201 N.W. Friberg-Strunk St., Camas. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors.
