Family Weekend Roundup: Jan. 30-31, 2010

If robot, chili or model trains at The Domes sound like fun, you're in for an exciting Milwaukee weekend. It's all happening this weekend in Brew City. So rally the fam and make some memories!

SATURDAY

HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS
Robots take over the UWM Union for Wisconsin's first "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Tech Challenge" robotics contest. Eighteen high school teams from across the country, including five from three Wisconsin high schools, pit their robotic creations against each other in an automated ball game called "HotShot." The competition will take place in the UWM Union Ballroom. It's free and open to public spectators.
onmilwaukee.com/events/event-100771.html

SUNDAY

OUR MILWAUKEE 4 HAITI
Our Milwaukee -- a local business alliance -- has rushed to put together the "Our Milwaukee 4 Haiti" benefit, slated to run 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Lakefront Brewery. Bring the whole family to this fundraiser, featuring food, music and raffle items. Plus, from 1 to 3 p.m. there will be a variety of kids' art projects.

FOURTH ANNUAL CHILI BOWL
Don't miss the 2010 Chili Bowl to benefit the Hunger Task Force. Over 25 area restaurants will compete in four categories: original, vegetarian, spiciest and most unique for a chance to leave with the "Golden Ladle." You'll be able to taste traditional and specialty chilis like seafood, sweet potato or bratwurst chili. You can even enter to win a Harley motorcycle. The event is at the Harley-Davidson Museum and tickets are $11 in advance or $13 at the door.
onmilwaukee.com/events/event-100718.html

NEW FIRST STAGE SHOW "THIEF LORD"
From the author of "Inkheart," comes an amazing tale of adventure and intrigue. Based on the novel by Cornelia Funke, First Stage Children's Theater presents the world premiere of "The Thief Lord" through Feb. 14. Call (414) 273-7206 for tickets.

SHOW FOR THE KIDS
The Children's Theater of Wauwatosa puts on "Beauty and the Beast" at Wauwatosa West High School this weekend. Tickets are $4 and available starting at 1:30 p.m. the day of the show.
onmilwaukee.com/events/event-100486.html

TRAINS AT THE DOMES
Running through mid-March, the "Westward Ho: Model Railroad Show" rolls through the Domes with model train displays and miniature landscapes. Held at the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, you'll have the chance to view special exhibits and demonstrations and have your questions answered by train hobbyists.
onmilwaukee.com/events/event-100406.html