When Kalon Studios’s Hut-Hut, a modern interpretation of the rocking horse, crossed our path last spring, we oohed, we ahhed, and then we sighed. The $870 price tag meant no way, no how, not in our house.

Which is why we screamed, “Yes!” when we spied the new version (pictured) for a much more affordable $125.

Fashioned from recycled resin in brilliant playroom-ready colors (red, yellow, green, blue, pink), it has the same unique shape (we’d describe it as a cross between a saddle, stool, and balance board) and charming star-patterned seat as its solid-wood older sib.

The most obvious difference (besides the price) is the weight. The resin Hut-Hut weighs in at a manageable five pounds, which we find less worrisome (watch out little fingers!) than the heavier version. It’s got more giddyap all around.

Preorder online at kalonstudios.com. Shipping starts December 15.

DISCOVER
Roald Dahl Festival
What: A play, a costume parade, and a slew of imaginative events in honor of the beloved author.
Why: Another generation captivated (er, terrified) by Oompa-Loompas.
When: Thurs.-Oct. 24.
Where: Schedule and locations online at roalddahlfestival.com. Prices vary.

CHOW
Boston Local Food Festival
What: Music, hands-on activities, and tons of nutritious eats, of course.
Why: Check out the composting worms to indulge his fascination with all things icky.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St. (617-426-6500). Festival admission is free.

SHOP
Giggle Opens
What: From strollers to sippy cups, this store’s got it all.
Why: The free weekly story hour is just another excuse to come back again and again.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 528 Legacy Pl., Dedham (781-326-3622).

Photo: Courtesy of Kalon Studios