Whether you look in one of Seattle’s farmer’s markets, or in a specialty store, searching for candy is a great way to explore the city and try out some of its unique flavors
Candy huntingis a great way to explore and discover some ofSeattle’s hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavors, exotic delicacies, or something truly unique, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. And while we know that Seattle families make healthy eating a priority, every once in a while, you’ve got to trade organic veggies and plant-based meals for a trip to a Seattle candy store, right? And with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, there’s no better time to indulge your family’s sweet tooth. Read on for all the spots you can make like a kid in a candy store and score a sweet treat for you and your little when you’re there.
From artisan truffles to champagne flavored gummy bears to nostalgic candy from your youth, Lolli & Pops offers unique and one-of-a-kind sweets from all over the world. Items change daily with batch size and availability which makes each visit to the shop just as fun as the last. In addition to rows and rows of immaculately displayed candies and confections, Lolli & Pops candy consultants are always on hand to answer questions, suggest the best candy for your palate (and your sidekick's sugar tooth) and even provide samples, so you're sure you know what you're getting no matter how exotic or expensive the treat is. Bulk candy is sold by the pound, or you can get a refillable mason jar that cuts down on cost. Sweet!
Sweet sensation: If you're looking for candy you found on an overseas adventure, chances are you'll find it at Lolli and Pops. The shop is known for stocking its shelves with the finest candies and confections from around the globe, including those obscure Japanese candies your kids crave.
Locations: Westlake Center, Bellevue Square, Westfield Southcenter and Alderwood Mall Online:lolliandpops.com
Named for owner Randy Brinker’s grandmother and built around a sense of community, Sweet Mickey’s has quickly become an institution in Ballard, an area with no shortage of sugary options. They host regular activities for neighborhood kids—think Halloween costume contests and readings of How the Grinch Stole Christmas—but it’s what's inside that matters: beautiful truffles, drawers of gummies, an assortment of licorice (lots of salty selections for Ballard’s Norwegian contingent) and gorgeous gift baskets put together in-house for every occasion.
Sweet sensation: Fudge is one of those sweets that’s generally not worth the toothache, but not so at Sweet Mickey’s. Here, it’s made fresh in-house—soft, smooth and addictively delicious—in about a dozen seasonal flavors that rotate throughout the year.
This old-timey candy shop has been family owned and operated in University Village for more than 40 years, and a local favorite for just as long. The shop is a candy-coated dream worthy of Willy Wonka, with 100 different gummies, 30 types of imported licorice (both salty and sweet), 60 kinds of nostalgic candies like Ring Pops and Necco wafers, and more chocolate than you can imagine. And no matter what the holiday, the seasonal assortment of treats can’t be beat.
Sweet sensation: Consider The Confectionary your one-stop shop for special occasions. They’ve got piñatas for birthdays; teacher, hostess and wedding gifts; and an amazing selection of seasonal goodies for every holiday on the calendar.
University Village Shopping Center 4608 26th Ave. N.E. Seattle Online:theconfectionery.com
For over 25 years, Seattle Chocolates has been making, packaging and shipping more than a million pounds of decadent truffles and chocolate bars, plus seasonal and special occasion products out of its 60,000-square-foot Tukwila warehouse. Although you won't find an old-school vibe here, you will find a variety of truffle bars (the dark chocolate peanut butter is our favorite), Jcoco chocolate tasting boxes that explore the different cacao percentages of dark chocolate and origins of chocolate, individually wrapped truffles, seasonal bars and Valentine's Day chocolates that will make your kids (or your sweetie) smile. The Sunshine Collection brings light (and playful chocolate combos) to Seattle's grey winter days, as does Seattle Chocolates' spirit of giving back—10% of net profits goes to Girls Inc.
Sweet sensation: It's got to be the Experience Chocolate tour. During the tour, families (kids must be at least 6 years old to participate) will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Seattle Chocolates makes their divine confections. They'll also learn about the history of chocolate and get a chance to taste Seattle Chocolates' signature recipes.
OK, so technically it’s not a candy-only store, but unless you’re on a candy-only diet, we don’t think you’ll mind. Aside from making some of the best sandwiches in West Seattle and offering a killer lineup of homemade ice cream, Husky Deli has a delightful assortment of international candies—plus chocolates from brands like Cadbury, Milka, Ritter Sport and Kinder—near the back of the store. And much of it is behind a display case, so you’re less likely to deal with sticky-fingered bandits who end up with a handful of treats in their pocket.
Sweet sensation: Sometimes simple is best, and a baggie full of chocolate-covered goodies can’t be beat: raisins for the kiddos, espresso beans for you.
4721 California Ave. S.W. Seattle Online:huskydeli.com
Johnson Candy Company
Want to experience a real-life history lesson with your sweet-toothed tot? Head to Tacoma. Johnson Candy Company isn’t made to look like the retro sweet shops from the ‘40s and ‘50s—it is that place, preserved in all its vintage charm. Unlike other shops, Johnson is still making their own chocolates, dipping some of them by hand even, on decades-old equipment. It’s a delicious trip back in time.
Sweet sensation: Though you’ll find all the usual sugary suspects here, the real draw is the chocolates. You won't find any foodie flavor combos here, but simple, delicious candy that's clearly made with love is sometimes all that you need.
Museums, aquariums, bookstores, and more. These indoor activities Seattle kids love will keep them happy (and dry) all season
Seattle parents know that rain is no excuse if the kids need to play. Thankfully, Seattle offers a plethora of rainy day indoor playspaces for kids of all ages. From museums and aquariums to bookstores, art studios and trampoline parks, we’ve rounded up 30 Seattle rainy day activities for kids to keep you and your crew from going loco during the drizzly months.
Plan a DayattheMuseum
Sure, museums may be the go-to rainy day rendezvous places, but they are for a good reason. Kids love them; they’re educational; they get you and your kids out of the house; and Seattle is chock-full of fantastic ones. On the next drizzle or downpour, find an adventure-filled museums to help you conquer the day.
KidsQuest Children's Museum
1. KidsQuest Children’s Museum
Migrate out of the mist and head to the Eastside to enjoy this hands-on, interactive children’s museum. Located in downtown Bellevue, this area favorite is filled with fun and brightly colored exhibits, geared toward the 10 and under set. All the exhibits emphasize skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math, but don't tell your kids—they'll just think they're fun. Kids love to play in the big rig, at the large train table, in the atrium climber, at the water gallery, or in the story tree. Check out the Museum's daily calendar for programs to fit your schedule (think art, engineering, and more), and remember to reserve your timed play session in advance. Trust us on this one, your wee ones won’t want to leave.
Run from the rainfall and take your little Einsteins to Seattle’s premier science center. PacSci not only offers a safe haven from the weather, but most importantly it gives your young scientists a day to explore the many wonders science, nature and culture PSC has to offer. Flutter about in the Butterfly House, take in the critters in the living exhibits, see how the body works, play in the Science Playground or stomp around with the dinosaurs. You will experience all that and more during your visit!
Sprint in from the sprinkle and make a rainy day visit to The Museum of Flight. Your tiny Earharts and Lindberghs will go gaga over the full size aircraft they get to tour, the space exhibits they get to explore and the kid’s aviation play area they get to conquer. This huge museum will keep you tied up for hours as your mini pilots and astronauts learn about all things flight and space. Psst...the Weekend Workshops are great for families.
Take a break from the torrent and pop over to MoPOP, Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture located next to the Space Needle. This museum is so full of wonders your minuscule inquisitive types won’t know what to check out first. Get the feel for various instruments in the Sound Lab, step through the intricacies of science fiction, or jump into the world of video gaming. MoPOP’s got all this and more.
Duck out of the wet stuff with more wet stuff at Seattle Aquarium. All the delights of our local underwater habitat are there to greet you and your mini marine biologists. Wonder at the huge Windows on Washington Waters tank (and learn about the PNW waters from a real scuba diver!), watch giant Pacific octopuses eat lunch, dab at the sea cucumbers and urchins in the touch pool and surround yourself with your water-faring friends in the Underwater Dome. The Seattle Aquarium is a great option to get you and your little fishies out of the house and into some seriously fun aquatic adventures.
Race out of the raindrops and add the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium to your rainy day, get-the-wiggles-out fun list. A zoo? In the winter? Why yes, because Point Defiance Zoo has two awesome indoor aquariums. Hightail it to the Pacific Seas Aquarium, a 35,000 square foot aquarium that was years in the making and now has its doors open to you and your nautical Nates and Nellies. Mingle with hammerhead sharks and sea turtles, touch sea stars, get a glimpse into the waters of the Puget Sound and be mesmerized by the moon jellies. You and your crew will be drowning in the wonders of the sea in no time. It’s indoor fun at its finest.
Yep, another great kid-centric spot next to the Space Needle is the perfect place to play the rainy day blues away. The Seattle Children’s Museum has over 22,000 square feet of play space with numerous exhibits to delve into as well as programs and activities that are free with admission cost. Send your tots around to figure out how gravity works in Cog City, hit up the play Eye Clinic (no pupil dilation required!), make art of all sorts, get your favorite munchies in the mini Metropolitan Market and more. This is yet another rainy day classic sure to occupy even your most rambunctious rascal.
Maybe a day at a museum or aquarium just isn’t your kid’s jam. No worries. Indoor play spaces abound in and around the city. And more than likely, there’s at least one near your neck of the woods that is worth a visit. From tunnels and slides to climbing nets and bounce houses, here are some solid ideas to wear your kids out.
8. PlayDate SEA
Looking for a place to park your bum while your lovely lads and lasses go loco? Then, saunter out of the showers and head to PlayDate SEA. With a huge play structure, ball launchers, fast slides and sky-high climbing options, this place is a mecca for happiness during the rainy months. Need another incentive to check it out? PlayDate SEA has a café at your disposal, and it's more than just popcorn and goldfish. They offer a full menu filled with kid and adult–friendly options such as pizza, salads, wraps, and paninis, plus apps like hummus and mozzarella sticks, as well as coffee and drinks.
Hop over those puddles and hit up this one-stop shop for indoor fun. Sure, it’s a place for indoor youth soccer leagues, but it’s also so much more. With locations throughout the area (Issaquah, Magnuson, Mill Creek, Redmond, SoDo), each Arena Sports has an Inflatable FunZone to get out those rainy day wiggles out, and some even have bowling, laser tag and arcades. Make sure and check the FunZone times before you head out as each location offers different hours. Really, what more could a cooped up kiddo ask for?
Insider Tip: The new Issqauah Family Fun Center is now open.
Locations in Issaquah, Magnuson, Redmond, SODO & Mill Creek Online:arenasports.net
Dave & Buster's
10. Dave and Buster’s
Dodge the droplets and head down to D&B’s for an afternoon filled with every arcade game your gangly little gamers can think of. Grab a family table outside of the bar area (you’re free to stay as long as you like, just keep a coat in your booth and you’ve claimed it 'til you leave!) and set your little ones loose, Pac-Man style, to devour as much video game time as they like (or that your prepaid card will allow!). There's also carnival-type games for your tiny Wreck-It Ralphs in addition to more sophisticated games for the bigger Donkey Kongs in your crew. Since you’ve got that table, take the opportunity for lunch, if you can wrangle the kiddos back into seats, that is.
The weekends aren’t exempt from the drizzles, so when it happens, you might find that you have more than your precocious preschooler to entertain. As you know, the big kids need outlets, too! Avoid that precipitation and cloudy day fatigue and let the energy escape at Elevated Sportz Trampoline Park. With 10,000 square feet of bounce habitat, including a foam pit, a ninja course and trampoline dodge ball area, you will have no problem wiping the kids out. And tiny tykes, you aren’t forgotten. There is also a Kidz Adventure area just right for pint-sized sprouts. No better way to get the jumping beans out!
18311 Bothell-Everett Hwy., Suite 140 Bothell, WA Online:elevatedsportz.com
12. Wunderkind
Another indoor play space fit for both parent and child? Seattle, you have our backs! Escape the elements and head to the 1,800 square foot Wunderkind facility, dedicated to kiddos and their vivid imaginations. You’ll first enter the DUPLO space with bins full of pieces, just waiting for little hands. This area is also filled with train sets and figures for your young conductors to create their own train world. The older set will also find an upstairs room full of LEGOs, train tracks and the hit of the second level—a remote control train! Best part? Think of Wunderkind as a safe space where you won’t have to live in fear of stepping barefoot on a forgotten LEGO piece in the middle of the night! Psst…the other half of Wunderkind is for you, parents! Complete with a café serving espresso and coffee concoctions as well as sammies, salads, kiddo foods, and, wait for it, local craft beers and wines if you want to unwind.
Looking for an indoor play place for your little Wiggle Wart, but you also need to get some shopping done? On a the next rainy day, kill two birds with one stone. Seattle is full of ways for your minis to get the cloudy day squirmies out and for you to hit that flash sale you’ve been eyeballing. Here are some of our favorite shopping malls with play spaces.
Jennifer B. Davis
13. Funtastic Playtorium
Definitely one of the more active, crowded and wild of play indoor spaces, the Funtastic Playtorium is a large, friendly, ready-to-romp spot in Factoria Mall (with an additional locations at the Alderwood Mall and Tacoma Mall). Don’t let the clouds keep you down. Head to this space to entertain your most climby-est, slidey-est adventurer. Within a huge meshed-in structure, kids up to 10 years old can tunnel, side, bounce, creep, climb, blast and ride. Unlike smaller play areas, it’s tough to keep an eye on junior the entire time, but the structure is sturdy enough for adults should you need to venture in and be a hero. Psst… bracelets are provided for adults and kids alike to monitor comings and goings.
Don’t just hang at the homestead. Check out Safari Place at Southcenter Mall, a prime play spot for kids under 52 inches. The facility is equipped with moving structures, padded surfaces, slides and a ball pit which are guaranteed to stimulate your sidekick. So wear out your little angels and then hit the Nordstrom sale.
Insider Tip: Westfield Southcenter also has a free play space on the first floor if you need a quick drop-in area to kick back and take a break before your next stop.
Southcenter Mall 2876 Southcenter Mall Tukwila, WA Online:safariplayspace.com
WiggleWorks
15. WiggleWorks Kids
Leave the low clouds behind and make a date with your little monkey to get all the wiggles out at WiggleWorks Kids in Bellevue or Puyallup. This soft indoor play spot, complete with moving parts, is a toddler’s dream. And the great bar stool seating along the counter makes is a no-brainer when it comes chillaxing, or keeping a covert eye on your little daring darling while he or she plays.
Crossroads Mall 15600 N.E. 8th St., Suite F15 Bellevue, WA
South Hill Mall 3500 S. Meridian, Suite 215 Puyallup, WA 98373
If the cloud coverage is making you and your crew antsy and you feel like a Bellevue Square visit would be just the ticket for a pick-me-up, head to The Kid’s Cove located on the 3rd floor. Geared towards kids under 42 inches tall, this enclosed play space is home to soft climbing toys with fun maritime themes. There are boats to steer, a ferry to crawl through and lots of sea critters to touch and explore. There’s also plenty of room for parents to catch up while your wee ones work out their wiggles.
575 Bellevue Square (3rd Floor, above Center Court) Bellevue, WA Online:bellevuecollection.com
Go to the Movies
Maybe going to the movies seems like a no-brainer on a super soggy day, but going to the movies with your mini film aficionados is a crowd-pleaser, and should definitely be on your indoor funday list. Check out what these family-friendly theaters have to offer and plan a day at the movies for the next weather-challenged day.
iStock
17. Cinemark Theaters
Located throughout the area, Cinemark will give you and your mini movie lovers that quintessential movie experience. With nearby locations in Federal Way, Lincoln Square, Totem Lake and Point Ruston, there is probably a theater relatively nearby your area. Cinemark also offers discounted pricing and special showings, so check their website to see if your neighborhood theater participates and what discounts you can get your deal-seeking hands on. Psst...every Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Lincoln Square location parents and infants under age one can take advantage of the Mommy & Me showings, where parents and tots can watch current movies without having to worry about bothering other movie-goers with a fussy baby. Strollers are accepted and encouraged and the theater even leaves the lights on a bit brighter, so that parents can attend to their little one while they watch!
Throw a stone toddler-style and you will probably hit a Regal Theater. They’ve got locations all over Western Washington from Bonney Lake to Puyallup and Auburn, to Seattle, Tukwila, Renton, Redmond, Issaquah and Bellevue. There’s no doubt you’ve got a location close enough to easily pull your whole motley crew in and out of the drizzle. Check the Regal website for movie listings at your preferred location and don’t forget to check out the perks offered by the Regal Crown Club for frequent movie-goers.
What better way to keep the kids busy on a drizzly day than with sports? But when it’s too wet to go outside, you can play inside at these area arenas and rinks.
19. Go Roller Skating
Does your bevy of babes need more than a movie to get the energy out? What about a day at the roller rink? Strap on those rad rollers and get your giddy gliders out on the floor! There are several family-centric roller rinks around the area that are just waiting to take the brunt of your beginning skater’s flails. Seattle, Auburn, Federal Way, Lynnwood, Everett and Puyallup all have skate centers perfect for getting rid of the drizzle downers. Get out there and show your budding bladers how it’s really done.
What better way to burn off that rainy day energy than rolling an 8-pound ball down a big ol' lane! These days, many of our area's lanes are fantastically family-friendly and accommodate even the littlest Lebowskis. Most also boast cool extras like arcade games, groovy jams, gourmet grub and even ginormous screens playing your favorite sports teams. From souped-up hipster havens to totally traditional lanes, these Seattle bowling alleys are where families go for strikes and spares.
Although usually reserved for the summer months, Seattle's got a few spots where families can play mini golf inside during the rainy fall and winter months. Flastick Pub (with a few city locations) is a prime spot to eat and play, and maybe try your hand at Duffleboard when you've made your way around the course. The Forum Social House in Bellevue is another family favorite, and not just because you get to sit on a Game of Thrones-style throne.
Seriously, what’s more cozy than a bookstore when it’s raining? The next time you’ve got to get your bouncing-off-the-walls bambino outta the abode, consider one of these amazing local bookstores.
photo: Elliott Bay Book Company
22. Elliott Bay Book Company
Clouds moving in? Head over to Capitol Hill and visit the Elliott Bay Book Company. It’s a full service bookstore, home to over 150,000 titles, and features one of our area’s best selections of new books, including a stellar collection of children’s books. The bookstore has great character and an inviting atmosphere for book lovers of all ages. If you have a tween or teen, check out the Underground YA Book Group. The friendly and helpful staff can help you find the perfect book or spend time scanning the shelves to find something that strikes your fancy. While you're there, be sure to visit Little Oddfellows, the cozy, in-house café that offers baked goods, sandwiches, coffee from Caffe Vita and beer and wine for the more mature patrons.
Third Place Books at the Third Place Commons is more than a bookstore; it’s a community gathering place where families, friends, and neighbors can connect over a love of books and playfully lament over the lack of sun. With three Seattle-area locations, you can find one close by that has just what you’re looking for. The flagship store in Lake Forest Park offers a large public commons area, three restaurants, free WiFi and a jam-packed events calendar. Moms and dads, perch yourself at the half-wall, hit up the Honey Bear Bakery and let your toddlers giggle with glee in the safe, enclosed play space.
Town Center at Lake Forest Park 17171 Bothell Way N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA Online:thirdplacecommons.org
Just off bustling Market Street in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, you’ll find Secret Garden Books. This full-service, independent bookstore offers something for everyone, but their primary focus is children’s literature. The knowledgeable staff includes longtime booksellers who are ready to help pick out books for all readers. For the wee ones, there are toddler-sized tables perfect for looking at books. Stop by and peruse the shelves (and shelves!) of books that are waiting to spark your child’s imagination.
You don’t have to be a Husky to enjoy the University Bookstore. Yes, the store is filled to the brim with purple and gold, but it also boasts an amazing children’s lit department. Don your raincoats and head to the UW Bookstore, that's morphed into a Seattle-area favorite, serving every reader from college student to preschooler.
Dreaming about lounging by the pool? Grab your pool floats, goggles and cooped up kids and head to one of our favorite indoor pools for lots of energy burning fun. It's an easy and fun way to banish those rainy day blues.
PasstheDayWith Pottery
You know what’s a fab way to brighten a gray day? Throw some art in it! It can be sunny inside even if it isn’t on the outside. Consider taking your angels to a create-your-own-pottery studio the next time it downpours or when the wee ones are going cuckoo.
Mudhouse Pottery
27. Mudhouse Pottery Painting
This relaxed studio in Gilman Village offers daily hours for any time the pottery painting bug bites you. There are no studio fees and their prices range from $12 to $45, depending on the piece you choose. Their friendly staff will also help you with your arty ideas, and when you’ve completed your masterpiece, they’ll glaze it, fire it and have it ready for pickup in 7 days. No need to make a reservation—just stop on by anytime, rain or shine!
When the rain, rain won’t go away, step out and head to Paint Away, your one stop shop for everything arty. Conveniently located in Redmond Town Center, Paint Away's pottery prices include studio fees and glazing and firing of your bisqueware piece. If you want to try something new, check out their glass-fusing center, a unique way to create an art-tastic piece for yourself or as a gift. You start with a blank glass base and create a design on top with smaller glass pieces. They even have "kiddie glass” which is glass that’s been fired to give it rounded, smooth edges, perfect for little fingers.
It's raining, it’s pouring. What will you do in the morning? Paint The Town. This ideally located paint your own pottery place in U Village offers up a wide variety (as in 250!) do it yourself painting options, from mugs to bowls, figurines to picture frames. One price includes the piece you choose and all paints, glazing and firing of your piece. Best of all, you can drop in anytime during business hours to create your masterpiece, and they've got indoor and outdoor tables where you and the kids can paint.
If getting the kids out of the house is key, why not head to a local game store and raid their library? Not only do they have the coolest and newest games out there, they've also got knowledgeable staff on hand to help you find the perfect game for your crew and help you play it, too. Did we mention that many also have cafes inside? Grab a bite and a warm drink to enjoy while you play.
Trade in your shopping bags for exciting plans with these great gift experiences in Los Angeles you can’t get anywhere else
Like anyone with kids, we have too much stuff—but you can never have too many local family-bonding experiences. Thanks to life reopening, let’s make this year’s gifts about experiences rather than things. While this season is filled with experiences such as enjoying festive shows for all ages in Los Angeles or heading out to seek the best light displays, the fun times don’t need to end with the holidays. Whether you and your brood want to go horseback riding, perfect a macaron, or take a family staycation at the beach, now’s as good a time as any to make happy memories with the best experience gifts in Los Angeles.
LA Experience Gift: Plan a Seaside Holiday Escape at the Loews Santa Monica
Traveling beyond California can require much planning, but booking a magical seaside escape at the Loews Santa Monica is nothing but fun for you and the kids. This gift experience is bound to alleviate a lot of the holiday stress for the parents while providing tons of entertainment that the kids will go ga-ga over (and may become a new annual tradition).
From now until Jan. 1, you can experience a host of holiday-themed fun events including breakfast with Santa, Brunch with Santa Paws (bring your furry friends), Tea with a Twist, holiday movies, a Holiday Drag Brunch, and seasonal cocktails. And if that wasn't all, there's a heated pool and jacuzzi so kids can swim and splash to their holiday heart's delight while parents can join in or relax poolside. Not to mention, there's also daily bike access so you and your crew want to hop on and ride along The Strand, one of our favorite spots to bike with kids in LA. And, if you still have energy after all of that, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is literally a hop, skip, and jump away.
For those that can't commit to just one experience, give the gift of many! Go City is a travel pass (but not just for tourists—locals can take advantage too) that offers over 40 exclusive experiences around LA for one low cost. The All-Inclusive Pass allows you to visit as many attractions as you would like in a one-to-7 day period (perfect for when guests come into town and you want to show them all the things). Or choose the Explorer Pass where you can pick from two-to-7 experiences—all to be completed within a 60-day period (parenting pro tip: ideal for winter breaks and spring breaks when you want to do something fun in town with the kids!).
Insider Tip: Go City is currently in 31 cities around the world—check out their site if you're headed out of town or want to gift an experience to a friend or other family member.
Cost: Prices vary depending on which pass you choose Online:gocity.com
LA Experience Gift: Lakers Game
Watch the Lakers (and King James) rule the court by gifting a set of basketball tickets. And while any season game would be absolutely worthwhile, we can't help but endorse the Jan. 4 game, which conveniently takes place shortly after Christmas. The Lakers are playing Miami Heat for an end-of-the-holidays east coast-west coast mash-up that's not to be missed.
Does your toddler love to mix, stir, and mash? Does your teen want to recreate every winning dish from the Great British Baking Show? Thankfully we have two pro spots to send your kids—whether it's for a stand-alone class or if you want to gift them a series of classes.
The Little Kitchen Academy in Century City offers various sessions based on age group but they also have "drop-in" classes—some that will be focusing on edible gifts.
At the Gourmandise School in Santa Monica, you can take classes together for ages 6-11 (hello bonding experience) and make cookies for Santa and other Christmas treats. For ages 12-16, you can send them on their own to make classic holiday cookies, holiday macarons, and more.
Dates: Varies throughout the year Cost: Classes start at $115
Give your sunny, SoCal kids a taste of winter! LA has a number of fun, snowy options, from nearby spots to worth-the-drive Mammoth Lakes. If proximity is your jam, then grab tickets for Mt. Baldy, located just 52 miles from DTLA. A reservation includes round-trip scenic lift tickets to the top of Mount Baldy plus a day of snow play. There's also a restaurant at the top where chilly kiddos can stock up on hot chocolate and snacks. Participants must be at least 40" tall.
Insider Tip: For more ways to play in the snow near LA, from sledding to snowboarding, check out our favorite local resorts that offer gift cards and the like for an unforgettable, snow-filled experience.
LA Experience Gift: Surf Lessons
Are your kids even LA kids if they don't know how to surf? Now's the time to gift them a surf session from Go Surf LA. And while they offer private lessons, we think the family deal package where they tailor the group lesson to your family's needs would make a great gift for everyone. Lessons are located in Santa Monica, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Zuma, and Venice although beginner lessons take place in Santa Monica, run for 90 minutes, and include a wet suit and surfboard.
Go Surf LA 1 Bicknell Ave. Santa Monica Online:gosurfla.com
LA Experience Gift: Trapeze School New York/Los Angeles
If you've got a budding daredevil, then gift them a series of lessons at the Trapeze School New York (in LA) for the perfect high-flying experience gift. Sessions are two hours—just enough to get all those little fliers airborne. If the trapeze feels too scary, you can also gift a trampoline class that teaches the fundamentals of body awareness and trains for somersaults and twisting skills. These lessons are open to children ages 6 and older.
Dates: Daily, year-round Cost: Sessions are $45-$84/person
LA Experience Gift: Family Horseback Ride in Griffith Park
Head out into the hills by horseback and see the city from spots you've never seen before. Located next to Griffith Park, Sunset Ranch is one of LA's most popular riding spots, with easy access to wide-open trails that offer incredible views of the LA Basin and the Hollywood sign. Choose from one- or two-hour trail rides—or splurge and book an evening ride to see the sun set over the mountains. Kids must be at least 8 years old to ride.
Insider tip: They're open on Christmas day in case you're looking for something to do with the family.
LA Experience Gift: Meet Your Favorite Wild Animal
If you've got "animal people" in your family you'll want to reserve an experience at the Wildlife Learning Center in Sylmar, where you can get up-close experiences sure to wow any critter-lover. Feed a giraffe, hang out with a sloth, give snacks to a porcupine, and hold a boa constrictor—among other experiences. All proceeds go back to the center, which has provided care to more than 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals since 1993.
Dates: Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $35-$150/group (up to five people, general admission not included)
Do your kids have a need for speed? Then send them go kart racing at one of the tracks located around LA. Today’s indoor karts are designed for drivers as young as 5 or 6, and they can drive independently—the only requirement: drivers must be at least 48 inches tall for most karts (some require a height of 50 inches). See our guide for the list of kid-friendly go kart tracks around LA to gift this adrenaline-pumping experience.
Not all gifts have to cost a ton of money. Take the opportunity this holiday to spend time in nature and visit one of our National Forests near LA. If these are too far or you are looking for something with slightly less commitment, you can check out these local LA hikes for babies, toddlers and big kids near LA. This gift of time may just be your kid's favorite gift yet.
Los Angeles may be best known for its beaches and year-round summer-esque sunshine, but some of Los Angeles’ best winter activities for kids are the most fun for everyone
Los Angeles winters aren’t as snow-laden as say, Chicago, but the weather outside is debatably frightful (at least for us locals). The good news is, Angelenos don’t hunker down at home—we hit the town! From uncovering nearby winter wonderlands and festive holiday markets, to outdoor ice skating rinks and cozy fire pits for s’mores making are just some of the things to do in LA come winter. So grab your coat and scarf, and check out these nearby winter activities and see if you can check off all of these winter activities for Los Angeles in the winter.
Things to Do in the Winter Idea #1: Play in Snow (Yes! It's Possible)
Despite the lack of snow during Los Angeles winters, we’re lucky to be close to lots of snow-worthy mountain ranges. Bundle up the kids and take advantage of (a natural) winter’s bounty at our local alpine wonderlands that are just a hop, skip and a quick car ride away. Snow tubing? Check. Sledding? Check. Is everybody happy? Check check.
Beginner-level hills are found at most resorts, and more experienced skiers will indeed find runs to challenge them. Many resorts also offer other winter activities like tubing. And while everyone hopes for a winter storm, the resorts can also take matters into their own hands if the snowfall isn't cooperating. Whether you’re looking for a place to teach your kids how to ski or to test your own snow-based skills, you’ll find it within an easy drive of DTLA.
Looking for snow that won't melt under the California sun? Take the family and frolic in a flurry of (homemade) snow at WinterFest OC, the Southland's largest winter festival, held at the OC Fair & Event Center from Nov. 25 through the 1st of January. Try some fun no-ice sock skating, go ice-fishing and decorate snowflakes at the Winter Frolic. No meltdowns are allowed at Kidspace in Pasadena where it's snow fun from November 18 through January 8th.
Outdoor Winter Idea #2: Ice Skate under the Stars
If you're looking for a unique and engaging way to enjoy the winter season in town, look no further than ice skating. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's sure to be an ice skating rink nearby.
Skate and chill where the sand meets the snow. The 3rd annual Ice Rink at the Paséa Hotel & Spa returns this year November 25 - December 31 with oceanfront ice skating, reserved fire pit experiences and festive theme nights (think Mariah Carey Tributes and Santa Ho Ho Hoedown). Hang with the cool kids at the 8,000-square-foot ice rink on the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona in Santa Monica. Literally know as ICE, this skating rink brings a winter wonderland to the westside's coastal communities. LA Live hosts the annual L.A. Kings ice skating rink where you'll get to slide across the ice and prance around the sparkly Christmas tree as an LED light show flashes across the huge screens around the plaza. There's snow time like the present to go because all the ice will melt by the first or second week of January.
Sand berm sledding is the perfect winter activity when you can’t make it into the mountains. Sand berms are man-made sand hills built up by the city to protect the beaches from eroding from winter storms and rough surf. They are a popular spot for sand sledding in Los Angeles and a beloved activity for those who live near the ocean. Sand berms provide a great way to enjoy the beach during the winter when the weather is typically too cold or windy to enjoy otherwise. There's nothing quite like racing down a sand berm on a sled, feeling the wind in your face and the sand flying up behind you.
Winter Activity Idea #4: See the LA Skyline (without the Smog)
LA is never so clear as after a good winter-y rain. These are the best observation decks and lookouts in LA offering sweeping views of the city. Get a snowflakes-eye-view of LA from iconic landmarks rich in history offering panorama's of the Hollywood sign, the Pacific Ocean and even all the way to Catalina Island. Sometimes you'll find it's less crowded and ultra peaceful to bundle up and check out your world from high above it all.
Nik Owens via Unsplash
Winter Bucket List Idea #5: Try New Restaurants with the Kids
For those who are always DTE (down to eat), LA has some of the best ways to stay out of the kitchen.
Families can celebrate one of the Eight Nights at Birdie G's with a Hanukkah-themed dinner series. Chefs from across the country will prepare some innovative à la carte specials that embody the holiday, along with some classic Jewish dishes, like potato latkes.
For one of the best South Asian-inspired pizza pies you'll ever have, try Pijja Palace (Pijja is Hindi for "pizza") in Silver Lake. Covered in one of the delicious sauces of Northern Makhini, Peri Peri Vindaloo or White Korma and chock full of delectable toppings, it'll be hard to eat just one.
Embrace the doughnut and discover why this round-shaped sweet has become the unofficial dessert for LA (for kids and adults). Sidecar Doughnuts’ malasada-style raised doughnut filled with a homemade pumpkin-chai mousse and rolled in chai spiced sugar is the bomb! But hurry, it’s only available on Mon. and only through Dec. before they swap it out for a new, seasonal flavor.
Stop by one of these family-friendly LA breweries for a little corn hole, ping-pong and kid-friendly dining options.
The whole family can enjoy these breweries; it's not just for mom and pop date nights. C'mon, who said having kids meant you had to stop having fun!
Winter Activities for Kids Idea #6: Hit those Southern California Theme Parks
Winter time offers the perfect temps to experience all the coolest theme parks that Southern California has to offer. Not only are there amazing holiday celebrations with winter wonderland-inspired décor, you'll have fun experiencing holiday-themed shows and maybe even meeting Santa Claus himself! After everyone heads back to school in the new year, these incredible amusement parks continue to be a great way to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Winter season brings "Knott's Merry Farm", happening now through Jan. 8th and enjoy Knott's Berry Farm's delicious jellies and jams all year long.
It's always a magical time of year at Disneyland! Check out the "Holidays at the Disneyland Resorts" and then go back again all winter long for more family-fun-filled wintery celebrations throughout Disneyland and California Adventure.
The Awesomest Celebration of the Season is at Universal Studios. Experience Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or spend the holidays with the Grinch, Max, and Who-ville at the Who-tacular Grinchmas celebration. There's always movie magic happening at Universal Studios though, and you could be the star!
Six Flags Magic Mountain's "Holiday in the Park" is select evenings now-Jan. 1. Experience dazzling lights, sleigh rides, Santa's village and snowy nights. Come back January, February, March and more with your significant other for the best date nights and roller coasters around.
Experience laughter, thrills and genuine emotions at some of Los Angeles' best community and family-friendly theaters. The La Mirada Theatre has so many great, fun-filled, family-friendly shows based on your kid's most beloved literature. In Feb., don't miss Grace For President and The Lightning Thief, and in Mar. be sure to see Twinkle Time, the bilingual "Lady Gaga for Kids."
Outdoor Winter Activity Idea #8: Take a Winter Hike
Sunny and mid-70s? Get outdoors and see if you can check-off our favorite hiking spots in LA to go with babies, toddler and big kids. A local favorite? After a hike at Ferndell, stroll with the fam to The Trails Cafe for various baked goods, pies, coffee, quiche, and sandwiches.
Explore some of Southern California's hidden gems, such as the city of Claremont. This charming and quaint little village is just an hour away from LA, off the metrolink line, and full of family-friendly things to do including shopping, museums, botanical gardens and the some of the best eateries and dessert shops.
Winter Bucket List Idea #10: Make Winter Travel Plans
There are many possibilities for fun and adventure, from the snow-capped mountains to the city's twinkling lights. Vacation ideas abound, whether skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or sledding. And, of course, no winter vacation would be complete without a few festive holiday experiences thrown in for good measure. Whether you're looking for gifts and fun or simply a way to escape the cold, winter travel has something for everyone.
Skypark Santa's Village is an adventure-based family-friendly activity park in the San Bernardino Mountains. The alpine forest setting provides the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and excitement. With plenty of activities to choose from, there is something for everyone at Skypark Santa's Village. From zip lining and rock climbing to hiking and biking, there is no shortage of ways to explore the great outdoors.
Just two hours from LA, Solvang's Danish-style month-long holiday celebration, Julefest, is about to begin and runs from Nov. 27-Jan. 1. Discover Danish culture and Danish pastries like Aebleskivers—dough cooked in hot oil and shaped like a ball, traditionally sprinkled in powdered sugar with a drizzling of raspberry sauce. This quaint village oozes hygge—coziness—all winter long, so make sure you check out the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art and then head over to Ostrichland, USA, for some aviary appreciation.
If you're heading to LEGOLAND this winter, stay at one of the nearby resorts like the Sheraton Carlsbad or The Cassara offering movie nights. Of course, a day trip to the Carlsbad Flower Fields when they open Mar. 1st is a great way to get excited about the upcoming spring season.
Winter Bucket List Idea #11: Explore LA Like A Local
Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, SoFi Stadium is the city's premier sports and entertainment destination. Home to both the Chargers and the Rams, the stadium is a state-of-the-art facility that features both an indoor and outdoor experience for fans. With a capacity of over 70,000, SoFi Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in the NFL and provides a unique experience for all who attend. It also hosts various other events, including concerts and conventions. Take a tour of SoFi with the family, or better yet, cheer on your favorite LA team!
The LA Conservancy Historic Downtown Walks explore the history and heart of the amazing city through its architecture. The past is blended with the modern, giving visitors a unique perspective of the city. These walks are a great way to learn about the city and its people.
A visit to 123 FARM, a lavender farm, is a fun way to spend time with family. From now to Jan. 8, you can experience Christmas Nights, where one million lights are on display. Horse-drawn carriage tours, s'mores pits, Santa, hot cocoa, gingerbread and a holiday maze to get you in the yuletide spirit. Year-round you can enjoy festivals like the sheep-shearing festival, the sourdough bread festival or Lavender Nights with live music and lavender cocktails. A truly unique experience to see in Southern California.
There's no place like Hollywood, especially when it's Academy Awards season. Win the lottery for a bleacher seat to see all the arrivals in their glam. It's the perfect way to catch a glimpse of your favorite movie star.
One of the country's top running events takes place in LA on Mar. 19, starting at Dodger Stadium and ending at the Santa Monica Pier. The LA Marathon is a must-see event, that is, unless you're planning to run it; then it's a must-do!
Winter Bucket List Idea #12: Only-in-LA Events
The holidays in Los Angeles are a truly magical time. The city comes alive with lights and decorations and plenty of festive activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. One of the most popular things to do during the holidays is to see lights! Families also love seeing the many decorated boats ping the city's waterways. It's a great way to see the sights and get into the holiday spirit!
Rose Bowl Stadium Holiday Tours are Dec. 28, at 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Get a peek behind the scenes of America’s Stadium and the host of the Rose Bowl Game. Learn all about the flower-filled celebration that's more than a century old.
Jan.-Apr., is the best time to see whales in Southern California. The gray whale is a particularly impressive sight, weighing up to 40 tons, these giants travel from Alaska to Baja, in preparation to give birth to 2000-pound babies.
Even though the holidays are coming, there are still a ton of free things to do in San Diego with kids this month
The holidays are coming and while that means more money for special occasions, gifts and hot chocolate, that doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun in San Diego for free. Fleet Week is here and along with it, a bevy of fun, free events the whole family will love. Don’t miss out some (free) special story times at Lido Village Books and Athenaeum Music and Arts Library and one of our favorite times of the year? A chance to explore our local National Parks for free.
Free Things to Do in San Diego That Are Always Free
Become a Skater Babe: Follow in San Diegan Tony Hawk's footsteps and take your board to roll with it, flip, jump and carve at one of San Diego's many thrilling skateparks.
Join a Park Ranger Program at OneofSanDiego’sManyParkTerrains: You can head down to the coast at Cabrillo for Park Ranger walks at the lighthouse, or drive up the coast to Carlsbad’s wildlife viewing with the junior rangers, or move inland for a wildlife tracking hike or nature story time at Mission Trails or go south for a guided bird walk at the Tijuana River Estuary. Click here for the full list of park ranger programs nearby.
Visit Seaport Village: Window shop, wander along the bay, watch the ships go by, listen to live music in the food court, and watch the kites fly—all in Seaport Village.
Hit the Beach: Of course, we can never really get sick of the beach. From stretches of shimmery sand at Coronado's Silver Strand to boogie boarding near the cliffs of Torrey Pines and making waves in Del Mar, nothing is more iconic than a beach day here in San Diego. Want to explore a new beach this summer? Check out our guides to the best local beaches for the kids and the best beaches to take your dog in San Diego.
Visit the Best Playgrounds in San Diego: Discover where kids can slide through a giant bunch of grapes or commandeer a pirate ship on our list of the best San Diego playgrounds.
Explore Chicano Park in Barrio Logan: Vivid, lively murals depict aspects of San Diego’s Mexican-American heritage including mythology and immigration. Kids especially love the Children’s Mural, which represents drawings and paintings from kids that attended two local elementary schools. Chicano Park is a great place to go with kids and give them an art lesson. Visit the park's interactive website to explore the murals' history and artists before your visit.
Get Instagram-famous: Capture a super photo-op at one of these Instagrammable murals.
The Sanford Children's Library at the Central Library: The library's Dr. Seuss murals and thousands of books make it a fun, inviting space for kids. Park in the underground lot and get validation to park for free for the first two hours.
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle: The colorful, whimsical sculpture garden that is Queen Califia's Magical Circle will delight kids. Make a day of it and check out this additional interactive public art for the whole family.
Check Out Not One, but Two Historic San Diego Ranch Houses: The Los Peñasquitos Ranch House is the second oldest standing residence and was built in 1823 by the recipients of the first Mexican land grant in San Diego County. Take a hike around the area, then check out the goats, chickens, veggies, and have some fun in the large open spaces for playtime.
Then head to “Carlsbad’s Sleeping Beauty” to see the Leo Carillo Ranch House and prance with the peacocks and play on authentic ranch and farming equipment. Don’t forget to pack a picnic!
Explore Old Town to see the birthplace of California: Settled in 1769, many of the buildings in Old Town were built in the early 1800s, which is pretty amazing in itself. See the mission, run around on the green or walk through the village, taking in the sights of old San Diego by visiting Old Town.
Uncover San Diego's Hidden Gems: A house perched off the edge of a building, secret messages in the sand and more unbelievable sights that will wow and delight your brood—these free hidden gems in San Diego are fun to discover whether you're a tourist or a bonafide local.
From learning a different language to solving mysteries, there’s something for every interest
Is your kid at the beginning of a summer slump? You know, where they (might) be over the lazy days but not ready to gear up for the classroom just yet? If so, it could be the right time to give them a little something extra to fire up their brains and bodies. Outschool offers dozens of different classes for ages ranging from toddlers to teens. From learning a different language to solving mysteries, there’s something for every interest. To help you decide which ones you want to check out, we’ve curated a list of our favorite classes from Outschool for kids.
Superhero Fitness Plus
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A one-time class that lasts 35 minutes, Coach Eurico will lead students through a series of interactive workouts inspired by superheroes! Best for ages 3-7
Smartest Artists: Art Class With A Touch of History, Math, Lit and Science
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This semester-long Outschool class has students creating a new piece of artwork every week, and as a bonus, they'll learn about history, math, science and literature along the way. This is a flexible class, which means there are no live video sessions. Best for ages 4-9.
Elementary Explorers: Rocks, Fossils, and Crystals
Outschool
This multi-day course is perfect for budding geologists. Kids will learn about rock cycles, how to identify different rocks and testing common materials. Best for ages 5-8.
This eight-week course is conducted like a real dance class, students will get an introduction to Hip Hop as well as learn choreography to their favorite Disney movies! Best for ages 6-10.
This class meets for 35 minutes and kids will get instruction on how to break codes! The class is recorded, so students can come back for referencing because learning these skills take time. Best for ages 7-11.
Kids will get an intensive lesson on how to speak Spanish! This course runs for eight weeks and meets once a week, for 50 minutes. There are only 3-7 kids per class. Best for ages 8-12.
This Outschool class meets once a week for weeks and teaches skills like basic first aid, how to build a fire, foraging for food and more. Best for ages 9-12.
Students will learn how to work with aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to create beautiful images. This is a 10-week, once-a-week course. Best for ages 9-12.
Combine your kids’ love of Minecraft with a lesson on the history of Architecture that ranges from ancient times until now. This Outschool class runs for six weeks, and there are no scheduled video chats, instead, participants have discussions via a classroom forum and private teacher chats. Best for ages 9-14.
While this seems like just a game, participants that sign up for this one-time session will be using logic, learning about fact vs. opinion and using their problem solving skills. Best for ages 11-16.
If your kiddos’ idea of nature is the sprawling freeways and concrete jungle of Los Angeles, well, let’s be honest, who can blame them, right? Beyond the raccoons that frequent our yards (and other animal encounters we pay admission for), there are excellent local nature centers where your kids can learn about our ecosystems, experience the sights and sounds of our nearby flora and fauna and get a sense of what the natural world looks like beyond the familiar concrete and controlled chaos of the big city without heading out of town to places like Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear.
Stoneview Nature Center At this 5-acre ever-evolving park, you’ll find yoga classes, guided urban walks, artwork, a demonstration garden and a community kitchen not to mention a scenic view of DTLA and the Santa Monica Mountains. The center is also the beginning of the “Park to Playa Trail,” the recreational corridor that connects state, county and city parks from the Baldwin Hills to Playa Del Rey and one of our favorite hikes with kids (parts of it, that is).
Good to Know: There is transportation to the park from the Metro Expo La Cienega Station to Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area and the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. The Parklands Shuttle operates 8 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Sat., Sun. and holidays. Rides are 25 cents one way and free for Seniors and children under 5.
Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center
This beautiful, busy nature preserve in the heart of Torrance (just blocks from the giant Del Amo Fashion Center mall) and thought to be one of the last remaining vernal freshwater marshes in Los Angeles County, is not to be missed by city kids who need a dose of fresh air and fun. The best way to experience the marsh your first time out is to take the Tyke Hike offered the first Thurs. of every month ($5 donation) for ages 0-6. Check out their calendar for other great hosted walks like Fri. Fun, Night Hikes, Nature Storytime and more. Bring a hat and sturdy shoes—it’s alternately sunny and damp in different parts of the preserve—and consider taking binoculars, because this spot is a paradise for birders.
Don’t Miss: The Nature Center houses several live animal exhibits including snakes, turtles and other animals on a rotating basis.
Audubon Center, Debs Park Located in the fourth-largest park in Los Angeles, this Center aims to restore the connection between people and the land in Los Angeles. “As the first center that Audubon built within an urban environment to specifically engage the Latino community, the Audubon Center at Debs Park has played an important role in building a more diverse and inclusive conservation movement here in Los Angeles and beyond.” In addition to restoring habitats at Debs Park and along the L.A. River, the center hosts regular family hikes, art workshops, habitat restoration events as well as movie nights.
Don’t Miss: The Audubon Center courtyard features some of the best naturalistic play area we’ve ever seen—your kids will have a blast, and you might even get a chance to relax and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings.
Deane Dana Friendship Natural Area
Situated on a hilltop overlooking the harbor, this park offers one of the most expansive views of Los Angeles and Catalina Island to be found anywhere. In addition to hiking trails, a picnic area and a pleasant playground with a pirate-ship theme, the well-designed County-operated nature center offers enrichment classes for school groups, education on local species. Sat. mornings, nature superintendents hold a free meet-and-greet to share knowledge about the park, its inhabitants and all the ways to have fun at the park, called Every Body Explores (also taking place at other nature centers across the city).
El Dorado Park Nature Center
If you live on the Westside and you make the trip down to Long Beach—even better, if you want to spend the weekend in Long Beach, check out our insider tips—don’t miss El Dorado Park, a 100-acre park featuring everything from stocked fishing lakes, 4 miles of bike paths and a train park for train-crazy kids. In the heart of El Dorado’s recreational smorgasborg is the Nature Center. Nearly everything is stroller-accessible—making it a boondoggle for those with babies looking to get outside. Parking in the lot is $7, but easy street parking can be also be found nearby.
Don’t Miss: Family night walks and the self-guided hikes through the area.
June is National Gay Pride Month and Chicago is quite possibly the most fun city to celebrate. The list of family-focused events added to the roster over the years has been nothing short of incredible. While some Pride events haven’t historically been kid-centric, there are plenty of festivals, parades, walking tours, pride-themed books and concerts that give kids the chance to celebrate or perhaps an environment to relate. Sprinkle on some glitter, proudly raise those rainbow flags and add these fun activities to your family calendar.
Community Celebrations
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The Highwood Pride Rocks Family Picnic, Jun. 4, celebrates pride with live music, a self-expression runway event for kids, rock painting, storytime, sidewalk chalking, crafts and more. In addition, Downtown Highwood will celebrate all month with pride flags lining the streets, rainbow windows and chalked sidewalks.
As part of Park Forest's pride celebration, Jun. 11, families will be treated to an afternoon of food, games and a meet-n-greet.
Skokie is hosting a family friendly Skokie Pride, Jun. 26, in Oakton Park with drag story time and performances, a dance party and music, games, crafts, food and more.
Midsommarfest, Jun. 10-12, is one of Chicago's oldest and most beloved festivals and features live music, games, food and family entertainment. While not officially a Pride event, Andersonville’s well-established LGBTQ population is celebrated in a portion of the programming.
WNDR, Jun. 10, turns down the lights and cranks up the music for WNDR After Dark: Pride Edition in partnership with A Queer Pride. Guests will elevate their WNDR experience with music from DJ SKOLI as they walk through the museum during extended hours.
Home to an eclectic mix of arts & crafts, food and other vendors, Chicago Pride Fest, Jun. 18 & 19, is the Midwest’s largest celebration of pride. Four stages play host to the most fun entertainment acts of summer. While the festivities can get rowdy during evening hours, there’s no shortage of family fun during the day.
Navy Pier’s annual Navy Pier Pride, Jun. 25, is set to return with a full day of Pride activities along the lakefront. Free and open to the public, this family-friendly event is the largest Pride celebration in Chicago outside of the Lakeview neighborhood.
Pride in the Park, Jun. 25 & 26, invites families to a massive party featuring The Chainsmokers and Alesso as headliners. A portion of the ticket sales benefits Center on Halsted, a vital lifeline to the LGBTQ people of Chicagoland, and the people who love them.
As part of the Chicago Park District's Pride Month programming, they invite families to an all-ages TRQPITECA Queer Pride, Jun. 26. TRQPITECA Queer Pride unites people across ages and identities to enjoy DJs and artists representing Chicago's queer undergrounds rooted in house and techno music, along with community organizations and small businesses.
Aurora's Pride Parade, Jun. 12, will be a celebration of the LBGTQI community and their allies with dozens of floats and overwhelming support. Before the parade, New England Congregational Church will host a pay-what-you-can pancake breakfast, 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
A fun-filled kid-favorite of the Chicago Pride Fest is the annual Pet Pride Parade, Jun. 19. All members of the animal kingdom are invited to strut their bedazzled stuff in a festive procession.
Chicago’s Pride Parade, Jun. 26, got its start as a march in 1970 and is now one of the most iconic pride events, attracting people of all gender, color and sexuality. Its bright colors, performance groups, floats and parade entrants—including many Chicago schools—will easily attract and hold a child’s attention.
Pride Month Photo Exhibit at Santori Public Library
During the month of June, Santori Public Library in Aurora welcomes families to a Pride Photo Exhibit featuring celebratory faces and places from Aurora's city-wide pride celebration in 2021.
Ms. Katie from Chicago Public Libary's McKinley Park Branch will lead kids through a virtual Pride Story Time, Jun. 3, with books, songs and rhymes geared toward kids ages 0-5.
Kids ages 2-7 can celebrate Pride month at Albany Park Branch with a Rainbow Story Time, Jun. 11, featuring stories, songs and rhymes, followed by an extra special rainbow craft.
Children's Librarian Mary Gen from the Kelly Branch will lead kids through a fun-filled virtual LGBTQ+ pride and self-love story time, Jun. 13. Stop by the branch for a free grab-and-go kit.
Aurora Public Library will supply kids in grades 6-12 with small pride flags to decorate at the West Branch, Jun. 2, and the Santori Branch, Jun. 3.
Join Mx. Christian from the Portage-Cragin Branch and Mx. Alex from Sulzer Regional Library for a virtual LGBTQ+ Pride Month craft, Jun. 4. After you register, pick up supplies for a rainbow string art craft from either location.
WNDR Museum is hosting a Pride Month art class, Jun. 12. Kids will create their own drag masks using markers, sequins, pipe-cleaners, decorative paper and more.
If you've visited the area commonly referred to as Boystown, you've likely seen the iconic rainbow pylons that line N. Halsted St. What you may not know is they are part of the world's only outdoor museum walk and youth education program dedicated to combating anti-gay bullying by celebrating contributions made by LGBTQ persons in history. The Legacy Project was inspired by the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt, a 54-ton quilt that celebrates the lives of people who died from AIDS-related causes when it was displayed at the National March on Washington in 1987. Take your family on a self-guided Legacy Walk tour and read plaques that give history on important LGBTQ contributors to our nation's history or schedule an educational guided tour.
Rainbow crosswalks have been popping up in LGBTQ+ neighborhoods around the world as a symbol of the strength of community and pride. Along The Legacy Walk in Northalsted, you'll find 14 visually stunning rainbow crosswalks running parallel to Halsted St., from Melrose to Bradley.
The Forest Therapy Walk, Jun. 18, for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies at Morton Arboretum will include a mindful, three-hour walk with a certified Forest Therapy guide on the Arboretum's beautiful grounds. A tea ceremony will conclude the walk with tea made from edible plants foraged along the trail.
Special Treats
Pride Month-Themed Breakfast at Stan's Donuts
Stan's Donuts & Coffee
Celebrate Pride Month with a deliciously colorful Stan's Pride Donut, Jun. 20-26. The vanilla-rainbow glazed cake donut will be available at all locations.
JoJo's Shake Bar's Pride Shake includes a passion fruit shake topped with a rainbow cake slice, a rainbow lollipop and a candy heart ribbon. You can taste the rainbow at all three locations, Jun. 1-Jun. 26. Proceeds from each shake will be donated to Center on Halsted and Naper Pride.
In addition to pride parades and street fests there are other ways to open the age-appropriate lines of communication with your children about the LGBTQ+ community—and acceptance of all people, regardless of gender, race, religion and sexuality. We recommend browsing Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark St.) and Unabridged (3251 N. Broadway St.) for books dedicated to diversity and acceptance. These reads are a great place to start.
"PRIDE: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag" by Rob Sanders Just in time for the 40th anniversary of the Rainbow Pride Flag comes a picture book that tells the empowering true story about how the flag came to be. From its start in 1978 with social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker to its role spanning the globe today, you'll hear a story of love, hope, equality and, of course, pride.
"A Tale of Two Mommies" and "A Tale of Two Daddies" by Vanita Oelschlager Both of these stories are great reads for ages 4-8 and allow us a peek inside the conversation between kids who are curious about one friend's two mommies and another's two daddies. They're both perfect for introducing kids to same-sex families that are becoming increasingly more common to see in society.
"This Day in June" by Gayle E. Pitman Show your kids the beauty of the pride parade without ever leaving your house. This picture book perfectly captures the diversity, exuberance and, well, pride on display and provides a solid springboard into a meaningful conversation. As a bonus, this book includes a reading guide chock full of facts about LGBTQ history and culture.
“And Tango Makes Three” by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell Based on a true story of two male chinstrap penguins, Roy and Silo, who shared a nest in New York’s Central Park Zoo. After trying to care for and hatch an egg-shaped rock, the pair was given a fertilized egg in need of nurturing that became the beautiful penguin known as Tango.
“The Great Big Book of Families” by Mary Hoffman Showcases many different types of families with 2-page spreads depicting facets of home life - from homes and holiday celebrations, to schools and pets, to emotions and family trees.
“Welcome to the Family” by Mary Hoffman Explores one element of its prequel, “The Great Big Book of Families”, which is the arrival of new members into a family. Written with a humorous tone, you’ll have an opportunity to light-heartedly explore all different ways a baby or child can become a member of a family — natural birth within a nuclear family, adoption, fostering and same-sex families—while sending the message that all families are special and equal.
“The Family Book” by Todd Parr Children are introduced to an array of families through whimsical, colorful illustrations. Pages are full of silly examples of differences (i.e.: some families like to be messy, some like to be clean), plus serious topics like adoption, same-sex relationships and single parenting.
“It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr Similar to the “The Family Book,” Parr reinforces the need for acceptance of individuality through repetition and fun and colorful drawings. He mixes big ideas (“It’s okay to have different dads”) with random silliness (“It’s okay to eat macaroni and cheese in the bathtub”).
“King and King” by Linda de Haan In this fairytale, a prince must find a mate to help rule the kingdom so the Queen can retire. While being introduced to a series of princesses, the prince meets a suitor’s brother and it’s love at first sight. Collage-style illustrations are bright, colorful and altogether engaging.
"10,000 Dresses" by Marcus Ewert Bailey loves dresses in all the colors of the rainbow. Dresses that sparkle, that shine, that twirl. His parents, however, are in his ear to remind him that he's a boy and boys don't wear dresses. In comes Laurel, a friend that shows him that it's okay to be whoever he wants to be. This is an inspiring friendship story that any kid can relate to — but especially those who refuse to conform.
"This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids" by Dannielle Owens-Redi and Kristin Russo Have a child who recently came out or is early-on in the stages of questioning their sexuality? First off, congratulations that you've created an environment where your child feels open enough to talk about those feelings. Next up? This book. Written in Q&A format, it's a go-to resource for parents committed to understanding and being the best support possible for their child. The authors share insight on everything from the emotional to the practical topics, peppered with real-life experiences from gay kids and their parents.
If you have more events you’d like added to our list, contact our Chicago Editor at maria.chambers@tinybeans.com. We’d love to hear about them!
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) which is a time to spotlight the AAPI culture and bring awareness to issues that the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities face. Since the beginning of the pandemic, many AAPI businesses have had a drop in sales and many have experienced an increase in racism and hate crimes. Supporting these businesses is a step in the right direction toward combatting systemic racism toward AAPI people, and it helps non-AAPI people understand the communities and their incredible contributions to our society today.
There are many thriving AAPI businesses in your community and online, and we’ve chosen to spotlight a few that we know families will love as much as we do.
Jennifer Tsay is the co-founder and CEO of Shoott, a start-up company that matches you to a photographer in your area. Available in over 50+ cities around the country, simply pick the day that works for you, the location you desire, and a professional photographer will meet you there. Shoott stands out in the crowd when it comes to taking family photos because it’s an uber-affordable option. There’s no session fee; you only pay for what you like ($15 a photo). You’ll get your images within a week, which means you’ll have plenty of time to decide what type of card you want to order.
Founded by Takahiro Kawahara, a father of two based in San Francisco, and taught by his brother in NYC, Artuta is an online art program for kids ages four and up. Kawahara has lived in many different countries with his family and understands the importance of cultural immersion, which is why Artuta teaches kids from all over the world. There are creative drawing classes for kids ages four to six (taught in English and Japanese!), creative drawing and sound art classes for kids seven and up, and even a sound art class for adults! You can buy a class back or individual classes, depending on your preference.
Founder Alex Zagami Ng comes from a long line of business owners. When she opened her shop in Little Italy, it quickly became a favorite for NYC locals and visitors alike. Ng curated a wonderful selection of toys, clothing and books, as well as designed her own line. While she was forced to close her brick-and-mortar location due to COVID, her resilience and determination, not to mention her loyal customers, helped Ng pivot her business angle. Now you’ll find Piccoliny gear online, or if you live in NYC, from these select retailers as well as Saks Fith Avenue in midtown Manhattan.
This family-owned and operated kids’ clothing line is known for its modern and thoughtfully crafted designs. Inspired by their own kids, the owners have over 18 years of experience in the fashion industry; they’re passionate about creating lasting, neutral unisex pieces that can be handed down again and again.
Anyday is the first-of-its-kind cookware line specifically designed to create sophisticated, time-saving, and nutritious meals entirely in the microwave. Founded by Bay Area resident Steph Chen and launched with Momofuku Restaurant Group founder and Ugly Delicious creator David Chang as a Partner, Anyday is on a mission to save people time in the kitchen by demystifying microwave cooking and bringing greater awareness to this misunderstood and underutilized kitchen appliance, which has been championed by notable chefs, award-winning journalists, and health researchers for decades.
Native New Yorker Cynthia Koo is the “founder, designer, and Chief Dimsum Eater” of Wonton in a Million. Cynthia built the company of her dreams by combining her design skills, her love of stationery, and dimsum. The designs are adorable and have resulted in even sweeter collaborations, like this Dimsum Steam Team Life Planner with the brand Erin Condren. Cynthia hopes to inspire people to learn more about the richness of Chinese food and culture.
You know Annie Chun from her iconic line of sauces, noodles, and soups. When she sold the company, it was hard for the entrepreneur to stay away from the food industry. Having grown up near the west coast of central Seoul, Chun was raised eating fresh food from the sea, and gimMe was a way to bring her childhood snacks to a broader market. Chun’s seaweed snacks are the first organic version to be available in the United States, and her efforts have even changed the way Korean farmers harvest their products. You can find gimMe online or in most major retailers including Target. Oh, and did we mention they are delicious?
Happy Masks has always been a family affair. Founder and owner Melinda Hwang’s father was a co-inventor of a powerful nanofiber membrane filter, which, when the SARS outbreak hit in 2003, was used to create a mask with this technology. When COVID hit, Hwang’s mother sent her some of the masks, and the rest is history. Kids love the beak-like shape because it’s easier to talk and even laugh. Other parents and friends started asking for some, and Happy Masks was born!
Born out of a quest to re-focus on self-care, founder Joanna Linton turned to the knowledge passed down from her grandmother to her mother to her; she turned to Chinese herbs called adaptogens, which are known to nourish and restore the body. Her line of teas for moms has something for everyone. There’s one for lactation, one for soothing the belly, one for expecting mamas, and of course, a calming tea, too!
Little Moony is a designer daughter and master tailor mother team. The idea to launch a children’s clothing line was born out of an afternoon watching their niece/granddaughter play in a cute but comfortable dress (which mom had made!). From there, Little Moony has become known for comfortable, well-designed clothes that range from bright and colorful to calm and cool. There’s a brick-and-mortar store in the SOHO neighborhood of NYC, but you can purchase everything from onesies to dress and jogger pants from the website too.
Founders and partners Stephanie and Dennis were on the lookout for high-quality electric products back in 2016, and when they couldn’t find exactly what they wanted, they started their own company! Known for their popular MELLA clock and sleep trainer, they’ve also got WISPI, which is a 3-in-1 humidifier, diffuser and night light!
Founder and CEO Eram Siddiqui launched Hudson and Bleecker when she couldn’t find stylish travel accessories. What started as a single shoe bag has expanded into a line of multi-functional, well-crafted travel accessories. Take a peek at the website, and you’ll find garment bags, cosmetic bags, packing cubes and more.
Ashi Jelinek founded the Luving Company in 2018, when, as a mother of three, she felt the market for healthy, innovative products for kids was sorely lacking. Her zero-sugar enhanced vitamin water has nine essential vitamins and minerals and comes in three different flavors: Flying Fla-Mango, Starstruck Coconut and Peach Me, I’m Orange. It’s a vegan drink, tastes great, and you can order it fromAmazon!
Founders Dayna and Traci love to read, and they love cats! They teamed up to create The Librarian Box, which is carefully curated each month and includes a book with other unique items from small businesses. Past boxes have included fun things like tank tops, jewelry, coffee mugs and candles.
Owners Christina and Stephen are first-generation Vietnamese Americans, who, when they were kids, and even now with two kids of their own, had a hard time finding toys and books that recognize and appreciate other cultures. Ellie & Becks is their response to this void, a personal mission to provide a thoughtfully curated collection of toys and books that connect kids to the world around them. With home goods and toys crafted by global artisans, you will appreciate the attention to detail offered in their online collection.
If you like wine, then you need to check out Guildford Green. Inspired by the village market concept, their wine selection rotates with the seasons. They focus on family-owned wineries, natural wines and wines you can’t find anywhere else. They hope to bring small businesses and small vineyards to a larger audience.
Imagine this: two first-year teachers ended up being roommates, then friends, and then, when life takes them on different paths to becoming moms, they re-connect and create a really cool company that puts the spotlight on Asian American culture with adorable bilingual board books and gear for kids.
This baby gear company is owned and run by twin sisters! Their silicone teethers were an instant hit with the parenting community when they launched in 2015, and since then, they’ve added other chic products made with high-quality materials like pajamas, swaddles, bibs, and more.
CEO and co-founder Christopher Wu wants his customers to find joy not only in the colors, designs and quality of the photo books, cards and announcements created at Paper Culture but in the mission behind them too. The company believes that fight against the climate crisis is the biggest challenge of our generation, and from products made from 100% recycled and eco-friendly materials to green office practices, Paper Culture completely offsets their production carbon footprint And, with every purchase, a tree is planted—to date, the company has planted over one million trees!
Known for her hand-lettering skills and bright color palettes, designer Lauren Hom has nabbed clients like Target, Vans, and Google. You can find her iconic style on everything from gift cards to planners (like this one in collaboration with Erin Condren) to album covers. She even has a book based on her blog, Daily Dishonesty. There are lots of reasons to love Lauren Hom but one of our favorites is that she offers courses both on business strategy and art including mural painting and hand-lettering.
When Lin Chen, a second-generation Asian American, launched Pink Moon, an online beauty site in mid-2020, her focus was on curating exclusively female-founded, sustainable self-care, well-being and lifestyle brands. “Practicing self-care/love has positively changed my life and this is why I want to offer other women the opportunity to experience this, too,” she says. These days Chen runs her business from her office in Midtown East, with hopes of opening a flagship well-care and community site for women through every phase of life.
Rooted may have started out of Ryan Lee and Kay Kim’s apartment in Williamsburg in 2018, but it’s soaring now with a greenhouse in Florida, a Brooklyn team, and a commitment to doing everything through a lens of sustainability. “We’re adamant about doing things as green as possible, even if it’s much harder, for the sake of our environment,” Kim says. The online nursery offers plant subscriptions, as well as one-off orders.
We’ll keep our fingers crossed for blue skies and sunshine, so you and the kids can fit in all the exciting events this weekend. We know many families will be looking for egg hunts and other activities to celebrate Easter. But before you do, head to the Washington State Spring Fair. Expanded for 2022, you’ll now have more chances to enjoy the tradition. Plus, every toddler’s favorite YouTube star rolls into town Friday night. Read on for our can’t-miss events.
Seattle
Washington State Spring Fair
It must be spring in Seattle because the annual Washington State Spring Fair is finally here. This year the Fair has expanded to include more days so you can have more fun with carnival rides, music, entertainment and, of course, fresh-made Fisher scones. All your favorites are back: The Farm at SillyVille, The Kids Zone, Monster Truck Rides and the Farm Fair. Plus, there are new exhibits and experiences to check out too, including Jungle Critters, Timberworks Lumberjack Show, a chainsaw carving competition and two kid-friendly performances to tickle your funny bone. Tickets required. Apr. 14-16 & 21-24. Event details
Kids Art Class
A magic art class for kids ages 8-14 is scheduled at the National Nordic Museum this weekend. Kids will draw, imagine and paint a fanciful toadstool home alongside artist, illustrator and storyteller, Willow Heath. Registration required. Sat. Event details.
Fin & Feather: Nature on the Waterfront
Seattle Aquarium and Seattle Audubon are teaming up for a seaside program that uncovers urban-dwelling wildlife in the air and sea of Puget Sound. Your mini marine biologists can learn how to look for invertebrates, birds and water-dwelling mammals at Pier 62, or you can join a guided one-mile walk to Pocket Beach for a closer look at wildlife along the Seattle waterfront. Please remember to dress for the weather. Sat. Event details.
Eastside
Blippi The Musical
Brace yourselves because toddlers all over Seattle are going to flip—Blippi The Musical is coming to town. Families will have two chances this weekend to see the YouTube star who brings the energetic and loveable character Blippi off the screen and onto the stage. In this live show kids will continue to learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along with their favorite streaming sensation. In addition to the Saturday event in Everett, families can catch Blippi on Friday night in Tacoma at the Pantages Theatre.Sat. Event details.
Spring Stroll
Spring is finally here, and with it comes lots of new plants and animals in Bellevue’s parks. Explore the season’s exciting new life, from the budding of trees to the re-emergence of all sorts of critters. Families will head out onto the trail with a park ranger to learn about this incredible season and end with a spring scavenger hunt to show off your newfound knowledge. Be sure to dress for the weather! Preregistration is required. Fri. Event details.
Egg Scramble
SeaTac Parks & Recreation is happy to offer an in-person Egg Scramble this year. This is a free and fun twist on the traditional Egg Hunt. Crafts, a face painter, balloon artists, goodie bags and of course, the Easter bunny will all be available to participants. Puget Sound Fire will also be on site, supporting the event with goodies and even a tour of the fire engine. Sat. Event details.
