Staying in town for Ski Week? During that week in February when Manhattan Beach schools are closed and many families leave town, it may feel like the town is deserted. But never fear - there's lots to do, and you'll get to enjoy Manhattan Beach at its most uncrowded.

Here's a look at a few of the fun and eclectic events going on during Ski Week:

February 16 - Live Music and Wine: Come see local singer/songwriter Latch Key Kid (a.k.a. Gavin Heaney) play a live acoustic set at mbWINEco, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. (Insider tip: You can order food from Tin Roof Bistro next door while you enjoy your wine at mbWINEco.)

February 16-17 - Geode Cracking: Have you ever cracked open a geode before? This incredible experience is fun for all ages. Stop by Right Tribe on February 16 or 17 between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for its third annual Geode Cracking Party. You can crack your own geode for $20 or crack two for $30. And don't forget - there's always pie at Right Tribe on Sunday mornings.

February 17 - Book Drive and Read-a-Thon: London's Read-a-Thon is an initiative to encourage children of all ages to read as well as a book drive. Sunday's Read-a-Thon will be held at at the Manhattan Beach Library between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. Families are encouraged to read together and to bring a book to donate to underprivileged children.

February 18-22 - Winter Camps: Your kids won't be bored at one of many camps around town designed to keep kids happy and engaged. Check out the Ski Week REC Camp (ages 6 to 12), the Teen Center Ski Week, and AdventurePlex's Winter Adventure Camp (ages 4-12).

February 19-21 - Lap Swimming: Take advantage of a quiet week by swimming a few laps at Begg Pool during lap swim hours. The pool is closed on Monday, February 18, but it's open on Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (6 lanes available, ages 9+), and on Wednesday from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (3 lanes available, ages 16+).

February 21 - Felted Geodes: More geodes! This Felted Geodes workshop at the Manhattan Beach Library is for students in grades 6 through 12. From 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., learn wet felting techniques and make colorful creations that resemble geodes.

February 22 - Mira Costa Alumni Volleyball: The Mira Costa boys' volleyball team will play its annual game against alumni on Friday night at 7:30 at the Manhattan Beach MIddle School gym. Former Mustangs and fans are invited to come and play (and reminisce).

February 22 - Art Opening: The Manhattan Beach Art Center presents TWO by Two- Stories Beneath the Surface with artists Amelia Amell and Jesús Chaidez. Both artists have been informed by their rich cultural backgrounds, one from the island of Hispaniola and the other from Culiacan, Mexico. As a whole, the exhibit examines artists living in two worlds and the impact of global politics, personal histories, and cultural symbolism. The opening reception will be on Friday, Feb. 22 at 6:00 p.m., with tea served at 5:00 p.m.

February 23 - American Martyrs 5K: There's no excuse to sit around on Saturday morning when the American Martyrs 5K is happening. This fun 3.1 mile race is family-friendly with a costume contest and stroller competition. The race begins at 8:00 a.m. at American Martyrs School. Register online here.

February 23 - Beaded Hoop Earrings Workshop: A beaded hoop earrings workshop sponsored by the Manhattan Beach Parks and Rec Department will teach you to create a dazzling pair of gold-filled beaded hoop earrings. Add colorful semi-precious gemstones to embellish simple hoops and express your personal style. The workshop costs $89 for residents and $98 for non-residents.

February 24 - Tea Gathering: Artist Jesus Chaidez (featured in the TWO by Two exhibit above) is bringing his Downtown LA Tea Bar to Manhattan Beach. At this afternoon tea tasting ceremony participants will taste signature teas from around the world and learn about folklore associated with them. (Workshop fee through the city of Manhattan Beach is $40.)