Open Daily- Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails! at Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd. Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and all his friends from the Island of Sodor in this interactive exhibit featuring fun and educational activities in the Crown Center Showplace, Level 1. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday and from 12 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Free, visit www.CrownCenter.com for more information.

Thursday, May 29- Chicano Forever: Poetry con Cafe, 7 to 9 p.m., Mattie Rhodes Cultural Center, 1023 W. 17th St. This cozy, bilingual, open-mic event is sponsored by the Bicultural Poetry Program + Poetry Underground. Free cafecito and pan dulce. For more information visit www.mattierhodes.org. 

Saturday, May 31-  “Kaleidoscope” Youth Art Exhibit, 12 to 3 p.m., Super Flea, 6200 St. John Ave. Each Saturday through June 14, view original artworks by students ages 13 to 21, includes hands-on art making activity. Curated and sponsored by Mattie Rhodes Center. Free.

Friday, June 6- International Marketplace Taste & Tour, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Hop on the trolley and explore Independence Avenue eateries; Your passport includes seven stops with tasty cultural specialities and drinks. Tour buses depart from American Sons of Columbus (2415 Independence Blvd.). Tickets available at the door or in advance at www.nekcchamber.com.

Saturday, June 7- Summer Reading Party, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., North-East Branch Library, 6000 Wilson Ave. Sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge and pick out a free book to get started. Food and fun activities for readers of all ages.

Thursday, June 12- Coffee, Culture & Conversation, 10 to 11 a.m., Independence Boulevard Christian Church, 606 Gladstone Blvd. Stop by for coffee and a treat, meet friends old and new. This month’s presentation will focus on community programs offered through this church’s outreach. Sponsored by the Northeast Chamber of Commerce. Free.