ML Interest Tag: comedy-show

Pride Month Activities for Atlanta Families

by Angelica Kajiwara

June is National Gay Pride Month. While the annual Atlanta Pride Parade and Festival happens the weekend closest to National Coming Out Day in October, Atlanta parents still have plenty of opportunities to show their kids that families come in every shape, size, and color of the rainbow. While some Pride events haven’t historically been kid-centric, there are plenty of festivals, parades, walk/runs and concerts that give children the chance to celebrate or perhaps an environment to relate to. So sprinkle on some glitter, proudly raise your rainbow flags, and enjoy these fun happenings until the end of June.

Atlanta Pride Run

The Atlanta Pride Run is excited to return in-person at beautiful Piedmont Park on June 5, with a virtual option for those not yet ready to mix and mingle. For over 30 years, the objective of the Atlanta Pride Run has been to generate awareness for the LGBTQ+ community in the greater Atlanta area and fundraise for much-needed community partners. Sun. Jun. 5. Event details. 

Pride Night Ticket Package with The Braves

Show your team pride at the ballpark on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, as the Atlanta Braves take on the San Francisco Giants at 7:20 p.m. Arrive early for the pregame party at the Coca-Cola Roxy from 5:20 to 7:20 p.m., located only steps away from Truist Park. The party will feature DJ Kimber from Nonsense ATL, and you will receive a Braves Pride 20 oz. Tervis tumbler to take home as a souvenir. Each ticket will also include a $3 donation back to Lost-N-Found. After the pregame party, head into the ballpark to cheer on the World Series Champion Atlanta Braves. Jun. 22. Event details.

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Pride in the Park

Grab your favorite potluck dish, get ready for fresh air, and parade fun at J.B. Williams Park. Plan to meet up around 11 a.m. in Levengood Pavilion, the covered picnic area, to share a delicious meal before the procession through the park at 1:30 p.m. June 26. Event details. 

The Southern Fried Queer Pride Festival

Get ready to celebrate 8 FRIED YEARS of queering Atlanta and the South through the arts and community. Southern Fried Queer Pride is an Atlanta-based organization empowering Black & QTPOC-centered communities in the South through the arts. All events for the festival are for all ages except for HAWT SAUCE: A Queer Dance Party which is for 18+. All other events are for all ages, but attendee discretion is advised. Jun. 23-26. Event details.

PROUD: A vintage and handmade pop-up market

Get ready to shop and celebrate pride at this pop-up market featuring 25 local queer vendors, with live music performances by Atlanta DJs Zaida and Esmé. Join in celebrating the range of creativity and beauty within the queer experience. Shop small and shop some of Atlanta’s finest vintage and handmade goods. June 4. Event Details.

National Center for Civil & Human Rights

What better time to explore The National Center for Civil and Human Rights than during National Gay Pride Month? The National Center for Civil and Human Rights believes in justice and dignity for all – and the power of people to make this real. They inspire visitors with immersive exhibitions, dynamic events and conversations, and engagement and education/training programs. Details.

Later in the Year

Atlanta Pride Events in October

Atlanta Gay Pride activities are spread out over most of October and include speeches, special events, parties, and workshops. The week before the Atlanta Pride Parade, a Dyke March and a Trans March occur, and Piedmont Park is the center of activity for the festival weekend. Music, food, and fun are the order of the day, and you’ll see all sorts of sweet rides in the Pride Car and Motorcycle Show. Expect a fun-filled, busy weekend! Oct. 7-9 Event details.

Atlanta Black Pride 

The annual Black Pride Celebration attracts LGBTQ+ people of all racial backgrounds worldwide to celebrate values, contributions, and PRIDE. Its mission is to educate, celebrate, promote self-empowerment, and ensure that the social and cultural needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and families are met in the Atlanta Metro area. Sep. 1-8. Event details.

A Little Something for the Book Worms

In addition to pride parades and street festivals, 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 differences. We recommend browsing Charis Books & More (184 S Candler St. Decatur, GA 30030) and Brave & Kind Bookshop (722 W. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030) 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 pride.

“A Tale of Two Mommies” and “A Tale of Two Daddies” by Vanita Oelschlager

These stories are great reads for ages 4-8 and allow us a peek inside the conversation between kids curious about one friend’s two mommies, and another’s two daddies. They’re both perfect for introducing kids to same-sex families we see every day.

“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, vitality, and pride on display and provides a solid springboard into a meaningful conversation. In addition, 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 the true story of two male chinstrap penguins, Roy and Silo 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

This book 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

It 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 the 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 unique and equal.

“The Family Book” by Todd Parr

Children meet 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 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. So in comes Laurel, a friend who shows him that it’s okay to be whoever he wants. This is an inspiring friendship story that any kid can relate to, 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.

—Angelica Kajiwara, Maria Chambers & Shelley Massey

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10 Fantastic Activities to Make Your Mother’s Day Special

by Allison Sutcliffe

For many moms, Mother’s Day typically includes breakfast in bed (or if you’re lucky, brunch at your fave restaurant), a little bit of pampering and a kid-made card that melts your heart. If you’re looking to go beyond an at-home celebration this year, check out these Seattle-area Mother’s Day activities that will help make the day extra special. From ball games and free museum days to train rides and cooking classes here’s how mom, grandma, auntie or any other special person in your life can make memories and celebrate the day.

Pick a beautiful bouquet

via instagram

There’s a reason why flowers are the go-to gift for moms on Mother’s Day. Spring's most spectacular flowers are in full bloom, and garden starts are finally rousing from their winter slumber. So if finding a great plant, bouquet or garden accessory is on your list of things to do with mom, you can’t go wrong with these options. For bright, bold blooms head to the Seattle Chinese Garden’s annual Peony Festival, where you’ll find gorgeous flowers available for purchase (or your viewing pleasure) and live performances too. If mom wants to spice up her garden with herbs, veggies and fruit starts, the Tilth Alliance’s Annual Edible Plant Sale, scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, is the place to find what you need. It the go-to spot to find plants that grow really well in our temperate rainforest climate.

Krukeberg Garden in Shoreline is another great spot to hit. Over Mother's Day weekend parents will find plants to purchase, and kids can make a newspaper pot nasturtium planter (Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. only), so they can come home with a little something for mom too. If you’re on the Eastside, it doesn’t get easier or more festive than Oxbox Farm’s SpringFest. Explore the farm’s trails and nature playground before sitting down for an OxEd family activity and a farm-fresh meal from the Outdoor Kitchen. Trust us, Mom will thank you. 

Spend the day at the market

Kids shop for flowers at Pike Place Market as part of the Mom's Market Day activities
Pike Place Market/PDA

A day at Seattle’s one and only Pike Place Market is sure to be a hit with any mom, especially when it involves live music, kids’ activities, a scavenger hunt and (undeniably our favorite part) temporary mom tattoos. Did we mention the 14th Annual Flower Festival and Free Comic Book Day are scheduled for that weekend too? You can’t miss with this pick. MOHAI’s Spring Fling on Saturday is another one to put on your radar. And if you’re willing to travel a bit, the Native Art Market at ALMA in Tacoma is worth it. They’ve got a covered outdoor patio where you can grab a gourmet bite to eat after you've shopped.

Take mom to a museum

A mom and child view art at the Seattle Art Museum on Mother's Day
Natali Wiseman

With so many amazing museums in Seattle, there are lots of Mother's Day outing options. But we’ve got our eye on the Museum of Flight where moms get in for free as a way to say thanks for all they do. Be sure to check out the museum's Weekend Family Workshop when you’re there. Kids can make a sweet keepsake for mom with a STEM focus. Families can also swing by the Seattle Art Museum to catch the latest exhibit—Our Blue Planet: Global Visions of Water—before it moves on at the end of the month. Hint: Lauren Halsey’s installation is also worth checking out when you visit. Treat mom to an afternoon of art and great eats, and don’t forget kids 14 and under are always free at SAM.

Bring mom to a game

A mother and son watch the Mariners play on Mother's Day in Seattle
Ben VanHouten/Seattle Mariners

She sits on the sidelines at every kids' sporting event known to humans, so it’s a total treat when families can sit together and enjoy game day from the stands. Three of Seattle’s most exciting sports teams are playing at home in Seattle on Mother’s Day weekend. Bring Mom to watch the Mariner’s take on the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday at T-Mobile Park. When you do, she’ll get a Mariner’s clear purse (for the first 10,000 moms in attendance) and kids (14 and under) can get a Mariner’s Bat Backpack as part of Little League Day at the game, too. Mom might also enjoy watching the Seattle Reign match against Louisville at Lumen Field on Sunday. Or if an early celebration is what you're after take Mom to watch the Seattle Storm play against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday night at Climate Pledge Arena. Go teams!

Soak up the scenery

A steam train crosses the Snoqualmie Valley River as a special Mother's Day activities in seattle
Northwest Railway Museum

While a Mother’s Day hike at a local park is a great way to find a view on sunny day, families looking for a more relaxed approach to scenery seeking should check out the Mother’s Day train rides hosted by the Northwest Railway Museum. A great way to “blow off some steam,” families can board in either Snoqualmie or North Bend for the 90-minute round trip that passes by some of Snoqualmie Valley’s most picturesque scenery, including scenic Snoqualmie Falls. We’ll hope for clear skies and rainbows on your run.

Whip up something good to eat

Kids cook with PCC Markets for Mother's Day in Seattle
courtesy PCC Markets

We heart programs that help kids plan something special for moms on Mother’s Day. Enter PCC Markets and two Kitchen Chemistry classes running the Friday and Saturday before Mother’s Day. Brunch is the theme of this in-person kids workshop (do you see where we're going with this?). When they are finished, kids will not only be able to make mom a special breakfast in bed, they’ll be able to do it like pros. If you've already got brunch covered, mom and the kids can sign up for a delish dumplings class in Bellevue on Sunday. You know what they say about the family that cooks together! They've got skills.

Head to the farm

Eastside farms are making an outdoor Mother’s Day easy this year. It all starts with Kelsey Creek's Mother's Day on the Farm event that includes animal treats, goat walks and a special Mother’s Day surprise. Families can also add a little flower magic to their day when they sign up for the Mommy and Me in the Garden program at Farrel-McWhirter in Redmond. Blooms, animals and a sweet kid's craft are in store. Remember to register early for these popular events.

Laugh with mom

iStock

There’s no denying it takes a real sense of humor to be a parent. Prepare for some serious LOLs when you take mom to an improv comedy show at Post Alley. More than just “yo mama” jokes, the players at this all-ages show balance understanding the real struggles that come with parenting with poking fun at them too. The show is just an hour long (not too far past bedtime), so it’s an easy one to turn into a family outing, a low-key date night or a night out with your mom squad. Plus, moms get a discount on admission—no joke. Grab tickets while you can.

Race through the day

Sporty moms will flock to the Mother’s Day Half & 5K that gives racers the chance to run around one of the area’s most beautiful parks. The 5K is a great “first run” for newbies or folks running as a family. And the half might just bring mom a new PR on her special day. Moms can also run for a cause by registering for the Move4Mona 5K Challenge. Organized by a local mom, proceeds from this race are used to support educational efforts around the globe for all kids and empower women and girls, too. Sign up to race in Bellevue, Edmonds or your own ‘hood over Mother’s Day weekend.

Plan a mountain daycation

A family rides bikes as a Mother's Day activity at Suncadia Resort outside Seattle
courtesy Suncadia

While spending Mother’s Day weekend at Suncadia Resort is a special treat, families can also plan a quick daycation to celebrate Mom. The day before the big day is when you should schedule your mountain adventure. That’s when families can shop the Mother’s Day Market at Nelson Farm or sign up for the tea party and craft class. There’s also an opportunity for Mom and a kiddo to learn a new skill like trout fishing, archery and hiking. All of these activities are open to guests and day visitors, but you will need to register. If you do make a staycation weekend of it, make your Mother’s Day brunch reservations at Portals and a spa treatment for Mom soon. Trust us, it's what mom really wants.

If you’re looking for more things to do on Mother’s Day, check out our full Seattle events calendar.

—Allison Sutcliffe & Kristina Moy

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Netflix Adds a Short Movie Category Inspired by Hilarious SNL Sketch

by Karly Wood

SNL Star Pete Davidson is once again in the spotlight, and for a great reason. In a recent sketch on the weekly comedy show, the comedian-turned-rapper taps into a problem we parents all have as we get older: we can’t manage to stay up late enough to watch a long movie.

Sure, we all love a little Netflix and chill, but when that movie breeches the two hour mark, you’ll more than likely to find us snoozing instead of watching. That’s why all we’re asking for is “a really short movie, like at most an hour 40.” We’ll let Pete Davidson do the rest of the explaining in the video below.

We have to admit one of the funniest lines is about how “you won’t be getting any yeses if you roll up to the crib with one of those double VHS’s.” So…we can finally throw away that collector set of The Titanic?

While the video definitely takes the funny angle to just how difficult it can be to get through anything longer than 120 minutes as an adult, it looks like the the execs at Netflix took it pretty seriously. After the SNL episode debuted, the Netflix Is a Joke Twitter account tweeted that they agreed with SNL, with a link to a brand new “short as movies” category on the streaming provider!

And parents rejoiced. Not only can we get in a quick flick before bed, but we can also pick the shortest films for the kiddos, too!

There are plenty of categories for all type of movie goer. Choose from scary, popular, psychological thrillers, raunchy comedies, action thrillers, romance, favorites and more. Each category comes with a nice mix of recent and classic films––all under that dreaded two hour mark.

The move from Netflix comes at a nice time as we emerge from the pandemic. Where we once sought out long-form shows and lengthy movies to get us through days of quarantine, that time is slowly coming to an end.

So whether you’re queuing up a flick for the kids or a post-bedtime chill sesh, when you pick something from the Short Ass Movies category, you guaranteed to still get to bed by nine.

 

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Portland Kids Weekend Events: Feb. 11-13

by Annette Benedetti

The month of February directs our attention to love. Valentine’s Day helps us focus on our love for family, friends and romantic partners. But it should also remind us to love one another regardless of race, religion, gender orientation, sexual orientation and our differences in general. February is also Black History month. So this weekend fill your family time with activities that help you ignite and express your love while also learning more about a very important part of our American history. Read on for family activities and events in Portland that will help you do all of the above!

photo: via iStock

Community Art Day

CREATE Community is bringing people together to connect and create at Community Art Day! Community Art Day is a free public event. Collaborative, solo and kid project spaces! Learn a new skill and create something for yourself and / or your sweetie in Teela Golden’s Heartfelt(ing) workshop! Event Details.

Black Love Day Comedy Show & Fundraiser

Maybe your children are a bit older, and maybe you have some money to spend. If that sounds right, then this is the Black History Month event for you. Built around Black Love Day, a prequel to Valentine’s Day that expresses and discusses love within Black culture, this comedy show and fundraiser is a catered evening full of food, drinks, and hilarity. Come ready to dine, drink and donate, laugh, love and laugh some more all night long! Event Details.

Winter Makers Mercado

Portland Mercado is a community of more than 16 permanent businesses in Portland’s public market and Comcast Plaza. They are bringing together diverse cultures through food, art and entertainment. They are open every day. Coffee early, beer and wine later. Event Details.

Black History Online Learning Course

Perhaps you and your family have always wanted to know a little bit more than free readings, talks or a chapter of a book at school could deliver. Look no further than Simon Education, an online schooling program that is offering a month long event geared towards Black History! Spanning the nearly 250,000 years of Black history, your child will follow the two child superheros as they relive the events and evolution that is Black history throughout time. Event Details.

Chinese Garden Lunar New Year

While some celebrations of the Lunar New Year span only 7 days, the Lan Su Chinese Garden celebrates the Chinese New Year for two whole weeks! That’s more than enough time to wrangle the kids into their winter gear and step out for the Pacific Northwest’s largest Lunar New Year celebration! Think lanterns and light displays, a dancing dragon and percussion sounds galore! This year’s festival will be featuring the Portland Lee’s Association Dragon & Lion Dance, putting on the dancing dragon march for the first time in years! Be sure to mitten up those hands and slip on warm socks before heading over to enjoy a night of illumination and celebration! Event Details.

The Art of Netsuke Carvings

Portland Japanese Garden will be hosting it’s first art exhibition of the year, “Fashion and Fantasy: The Art of Netsuke Carvings” in the Pavilion Gallery. Once immensely popular across Japan, netsuke (pronounced nets-keh), small accessories fashioned from wood, ivory, or porcelain, blurred the lines between function and art in their heyday. “Fashion and Fantasy” will showcase the fascinating world of these miniature Japanese carvings traditionally used to secure small pouches to men’s pocketless kimonos. Drawing on a recent gift from the The Netsuke Collection of James R. Coonan, Denise C. Bates and Lurline C. Menzies, this exhibition explores the breathtaking stories, artistic expression and imagination that netsuke capture.  Event Details.

Anastasia

Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA is on a journey to Portland at last! From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family. Event Details.

Portland Winter Light Festival at Oaks

Oaks Park will once again be part of the Portland Winter Light Festival! Their spectacular midway lights will be on from 6-10 p.m. daily. Enjoy a free walk through the park and take in the artistry of their ride lights! Event Details.

—Annette Benedetti

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8 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

by Melissa Poulin

Black History Month is an important observance that when celebrated by attending well organized and educational events, both in-person and online, can help your family understand and support the Black community year-round. As James Baldwin said, Black history is American history. There’s much to celebrate and honor, and a lot of work to be done toward racial justice. So how can you and your children celebrate, learn and engage with Black history in Portland? Read on for ways to involve the whole family this February and beyond.

Portland Jazz Festival

Spencer C. via Yelp

Presented this year by PDX Jazz, a local jazz organization, the Portland Jazz Festival enters its 19th consecutive year of celebrating jazz and Black History Month This year's festivities feature GRAMMY Award Winners, as well as local artists! Whether your family members are die-hard jazz lovers who wouldn't mind spending a few bucks on tickets for select performances, or  wouled prefer to attend one of the many free musical shows, options are not in short supply. Head online for more information about performance scheduling, ticket pricing, and of course, the COVID-19 policy and then get jazzy with it!

When: Feb. 17- 26
Online: pdxjazz.org/festival/

Multonomah County Library's Black Storytime!

Maybe you are crunched with work and the little ones are too tired to get out of the house. Don't worry. This event is online and geared to the tiniest of tots. If you are a new parent, or a parent with a child up to age 6, this is the event for you! Set the laptop up and jump in for a live storytelling experience, a bit of singing, and a whole lot of fun. This event is only thirty minutes, the perfect amount of time to keep your little one engaged, entertained and learning. Head online to register via Zoom, free of charge!

Where: Virtual
When: Feb. 2
Cost: Free
Online: here

OPB: Oregon's Black Pioneers

This February, OPB is publishing a 30 minute special that will air on TV and be available online, documenting Oregon's Black Pioneers. In this special, OPB will cover the centuries-long story that covers the African American from the late 18th century to the present. Gather the family around a computer, iPad, or television to learn about the Black Pioneers of Oregon from the comfort of your own home! Flexible, free, and full of educational material, this is an event you can be sure will enrich your family this Black History Month!

Where: Virtual
When: Monday, Feb. 7 from 9:30 - 10 p.m.
Online: here

Black History Online Learning Course

Oregon Historical Society

Perhaps you and your family have always wanted to know a little bit more than free readings, talks or a chapter of a book at school could deliver. Look no further than Simon Education, an online schooling program that is offering a month long event geared towards Black History! Spanning the nearly 250,000 years of Black history, your child will follow the two child superheros as they relive the events and evolution that is Black history throughout time. This event does require a donation, about $10 per family, and doles out much more knowledge than money is worth! Grab the kids and work your way through the four modules of awe and inspiration together. 

Where: Virtual
When: Feb 5, 12, 19, & 26
Online at: here

PCC's Cascade Festival of African Films

Take things back to the start of it all: Africa. Through films and their unique storytelling capacities, this year's Annual Cascade Festival is honoring the cultural and historical saga that is Africa. Films like Diatribe: From the Village to the Streets or Casablanca Beats take viewers from past to present and everywhere in between. Films are being shown through the beginning of March, so don't sweat the timing too much! There is an opportunity every weekend to spend some quality time with the family in front of the big screen.

Where: Virtual & In-Person
When:  Feb. 4 - Mar. 5
Online: here

Trail Blazers: Celebration of Black History

Kim G. via Yelp

"Let's go Blazers!". This is a phrase you and your family must know well if you know the Trail Blazers. Whether you're big into sports or just when your friends make you sit through a game, this Black History Month event hosted by Portland's NBA team is one you'll surely not want to miss! Friday, February 21st marks another year of the annual celebration by the Trail Blazers and will feature live performances, fundraising opportunities, and, you guessed it, sick Trail Blazers swag! Fundraising will be for the Black Education Achievement Movement, an organization driven to help African youth pursue furthered education. So pop on all your sports apparel, grab the kids and head to the MODA center this February to get involved and give back!

Where: MODA Center, 1 N Center Ct St., 
When:  Feb.12, 2 p.m.
Online: here

Clinton Street Theater's Hidden Colors

Come out for another film screening at Portland's Clinton Street Theater this February! The theater is showing Tariq Nasheed's Hidden Colors, a documentary highlighting African and aboriginal historical stories that have been left out of the mainstream voice. Listen to featured voices of scholars, social movement leaders, and historians as they unpack the largely untold history of Black History Month! This is sure to be a memorable experience, so head to Clinton Street Theater's website to secure the family's tickets now!

Where: Clinton Street Theater, 2522 SE Clinton St.
When: February 9, 16, 22
Online: here

Black Love Day Comedy Show & Fundraiser

Maybe your children are a bit older, and maybe you have some money to spend. If that sounds right, then this is the Black History Month event for you. Built around Black Love Day, a prequel to Valentine's Day that expresses and discusses love within Black culture, this comedy show and fundraiser is a catered evening full of food, drinks, and hilarity. Come ready to dine, drink and donate, laugh, love and laugh some more all night long! 

Where: The Suite Spot PDX, 24-32 NW 2nd Ave., 
When: Feb. 13
Cost: $60 - $300
Online: here

—Hannah Judge

Featured photo: PDX Jazz Festival via yelp

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Incredible Family Hotels That Don’t Cost a Fortune

by Kate Loweth

Keep the vacation expenses down and the adventure level up with these affordable, kid-friendly hotels that are perfect for your next family vacation. Don’t think that these are bare-bones spots—scroll through to see all the amazing resort perks that are in store for your “budget” vacation! With rates of $200/night or less, you’ll have more bucks to spend on exploring the local area.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch | Scottsdale, AZ

The beauty of the majestic McDowell Mountains, palm trees, cacti, wildflowers, Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture, and the spirit of native peoples combine to create the Southwestern elegance of the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch. Enjoy the many recreational amenities this desert oasis has to offer including a 2.5-acre water extravaganza complete with 10 pools, 20 fountains, 45 water spills and its signature sandy beach.  

Book here

Dry Creek Inn | Healdsburg, CA

Located in the gorgeous, family-friendly town of Healdsburg, the Dry Creek Inn offers easy access to restaurants, tasting rooms and shopping, as well as outlying wineries and bicycle trails. The property also offers two swimming pools, two hot tubs, a fire pit and outdoor fireplaces, so plenty of space to relax in style. There is also a steam, sauna and fitness room.

Guest rooms in the inn's Villa Toscana section have amenities like gas fireplaces, ergonomic workspaces, bathrooms with granite countertops, and jetted whirlpool tubs with separate showers. Some of these rooms have a private patio or balcony. The accommodations in the Casa Siena wing are more standard. All rooms have refrigerators, tea/coffee makers, and flat-screen TVs. Through the summer there are many nights when rates can be had right around $170/night. And, you can find our massive list of local family-friendly activities here. 

Book here

Greek Peak Mountain Resort | Cortland, NY

Catering to adventurous kids and adults of all ages, Hope Lake Lodge at Greek Peak is located in the storybook village of Cortland, NY in the Finger Lakes region with amenities for the entire family with easy access to the Cascades Indoor Waterpark and the Adventure Center with zip-lines, ropes courses, Euro Bungee and mountain coaster.

Book here

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | Scottsdale, AZ

Kate Loweth

Set against the backdrop of Arizona’s McDowell Mountains, the AAA Five-Diamond Fairmont Scottsdale Princess reflects its Southwestern setting with Spanish colonial-style architecture, expansive plazas and lush, flower-filled gardens. The resort features 750 oversized guest rooms, including 69 Fairmont Gold rooms and suites, six sparkling heated swimming pools—including a new white sand beach, the luxurious 44,000 square-foot Well & Being Spa, championship golf at adjacent TPC Scottsdale, the Trailblazers Kids Club & Family Adventure Center and personalized concierge services offering access to exciting activities to satisfy everyone.

Book here

Radisson Blu Mall of America | Bloomington, MN

Radisson Blu Mall of America is a top place to stay for families, conveniently connected to Mall of America via skyway and a short drive or Metro ride away from downtown Minneapolis. The hotel features 500 fashion-inspired guest rooms, a gym, indoor saline pool, farm-to-table restaurant, and gives families easy access to the nation’s largest indoor theme park, Nickelodeon Universe, located inside Mall of America. 

To keep kiddos active during their stay, Radisson Blu Mall of America created family-friendly #BluRoutes perfect for a brisk or leisurely stroll around Bloomington. The hotel is also located within walking distance of the scenic Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which offers over 46 miles of trails.

Book here

The Kimpton Goodland Hotel | Fort Lauderdale Beach, FL

Tucked just one block from the beach in Fort Lauderdale’s North Beach Village lies the brand-new Kimpton Goodland Hotel - Fort Lauderdale Beach. A sunshine-dappled world onto itself, this property is the perfect enclave to savor peaceful moments—and also shake up the party. As the area’s first true boutique hotel and the brand’s first-ever property in the destination, the 96-key property invites families to experience and celebrate a brand-new lodging concept in Fort Lauderdale.

An adaptive reuse of the historic Escape Hotel, which originally opened in 1950 as the first year-round resort in Fort Lauderdale, The Goodland blends in with the mid-century, nostalgic look and feel of its original structure and the neighborhood, offering a cool and carefree Fort Lauderdale experience. An iconic addition to the area, The Goodland spans three two-story buildings, inclusive of signature restaurant Botanic at The Goodland, two private pools, guest-favorite Kimpton services, amenities, and perks like morning coffee and tea service, evening social hour, complimentary PUBLIC bikes, in-room yoga mats, kid-friendly programming, and a pet-friendly policy. 

Book here

Mar Vista Farm + Cottages | Gualala, CA

Kate Loweth

With 11 cottages and a small farm set upon nine acres along Mendocino County’s “secret coast,” Mar Vista is safety in seclusion, a mindful escape where life slows down, and physically distanced by design for guests to reconnect with the land, themselves and each other. You can find all our favorite things to do with kids in Mendocino here. 

It’s a great spot for families with kid-friendly activities like feeding the on-property goat triplets, chicken chats and farm-fresh egg collection at the hen house, and the kids “Cottage 13” playhouse.

Book here

Edgewater Inn Restaurant & Marina | Ketchikan, AK

For those looking to book an affordable bucket-list trip of a lifetime, Edgewater Inn Restaurant & Marina in Ketchikan, Alaska (just 90 minutes form Seattle) provides a picture-perfect destination for families, groups or couples. Situated at the southernmost entrance to Alaska’s iconic Inside Passage, conveniently located minutes from downtown Ketchikan and with rates starting at just $180 per night, the hotel is the perfect home base for budget-minded families looking to explore spectacular southeast Alaska. 

Edgewater Inn allows guests to experience the best that Alaska has to offer, from enjoying a deep-sea fishing excursion or taking in the vast natural splendor of the Tongass National Forest to shopping in downtown Ketchikan. The hotel offers 46 charming guest rooms, with rustic, locally inspired décor, an on-site dock and full-service marina for fishing and sightseeing excursions. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at Edgewater’s on-site restaurant while enjoying beautiful waterfront views and fresh locally caught seafood dishes.

Book here

Retro Inn | Cortez, CO

Recently renovated, this fun motor-style inn—where all of the doors connect directly to the parking lot and each room has its own heating/air conditioner unit—features rooms themed for the year of the room number (i.e. Room 1956 for Elvis Presley). Retro Inn is pet-friendly and conveniently located in Cortez—only 10 minutes to the world-famous Mesa Verde National Park.

Book here

THE ROW | Reno, NV

THE ROW Reno offers affordable room rates, accommodations and activities for the whole family to enjoy. At all three of THE ROW’s distinct properties, Eldorado, Circus Circus and Silver Legacy, guests can find room rates under $200 (on select days), some even ranging in the double-digits. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the reimagined and remodeled Carnival Midway at Circus Circus, featuring 40 arcade-style games including the world largest Pacman and Space Invaders games all at the XP Arcade. 

Boasting 25 restaurants across the three properties, there are plenty of dining options to choose from for the whole family to enjoy. Spice up the evening with a lively atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine at Circus Circus’ El Jefe’s Cantina or attend a comedy show with big-name headliners at the Laugh Factory. 

Find all our favorite Reno activities here. 

Book here

Tru by Hilton Orlando Convention Center | Orlando, FL

Located just a short car ride from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Downtown Orlando, Tru by Hilton Orlando Convention Center Area is the perfect hub for any family vacation. After fun-filled days at the parks, guests can come back to the hotel and enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or play games in the lobby. 

Book here

Homewood Suites by Hilton New York/Midtown Manhattan Times Square - South | New York, NY

Just steps away from Times Square, families can discover New York City at their own pace while staying at Homewood Suites by Hilton New York/Midtown Manhattan Times Square - South, NY. Times Square, award-winning Broadway shows and Madison Square Garden events are all within walking distance. Families can also venture out and discover some of the best restaurants and attractions nearby. The hotel offers complimentary breakfast and WiFi. 

Book here

Gravity Haus | Breckenridge, CO

Gravity Haus Breckenridge is the adventure destination and social community for the modern adventurer. The tech-forward boutique hotel features a modern alpine design and 60 distinctly-curated rooms that include an 'all-in-one' combination suits featuring both bunks and private sleeping areas for families. Designed to activate a community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts year-round, Gravity Haus offers ongoing insider experiences ranging from outdoor excursions to social programming for families.

Through the brand’s in-haus Colorado Adventure Guides, guests can enroll in awe-inspiring year-round activities and guided trips tailored to all ability levels, from beginners to advanced, to help guests get out and explore the high country in Summit County. Excursions include backcountry and nordic skiing, snowshoeing, 14er accents, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, rock climbing, and more. The Colorado Adventure Guides team is made up of ski patrollers, search and rescue professionals, avalanche educators, and passionate mountain adventurers.

Book here

The Landmark Resort | Egg Harbor, WI

Kate Loweth

The Landmark Resort is located on 40 wooded acres in scenic Door County and offers free wireless internet access, heated swimming pools, whirlpools, steam rooms, casual dining and plenty of resort amenities for adults and children. The resort features 294 one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites that are great for families of all sizes. Kids will enjoy exploring the hiking path and playing on the on-site playground. Door County has loads of outdoor activities, fish boils and more—check out all of our recommendations. Rates start at $86/night.

Book here

Knott's Berry Farm Hotel | Buena Park, CA

Knott's Berry Farm Hotel

Located steps away from the Knott’s Berry Farm theme park and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark, the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel perfectly combines comfort and fun to provide families of all ages with the most enjoyable stay possible. One of the hotel’s most unique and charming features is the 16-room wing of Snoopy-themed guest rooms. Each night, Snoopy visits these guest rooms and offers bedtime tuck-in services for kids for a dog-gone delightful ending to a fun-filled day at Knott’s Berry Farm! Suggestions for other activities in the Orange County area can be found here. 

Book here

Ski Tip Lodge | Keystone, CO

Founded as an 1800s stagecoach stop and later as the homes to Keystone Mountain’s founding family, the Ski Tip Lodge is one of the most historical buildings in the ski industry today. As one of the longest operating lodges in all of ski country, Ski Tip Lodge is a beloved and charming B&B where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy fireside aprés and signature appetizers from Ski Tip's AAA Four Diamond Chef all year long. This past summer, Ski Tip Lodge underwent a refresh to it’s rooms and interior design to elevate the experience to match the level of service and quality of the restaurant while still keeping the charm and history of its past.

Book here

Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel | Waikiki, HI

istock

This charming and affordable beach hotel in Waikiki is newly renovated, centrally located on Kalakaua Avenue next to Honolulu Zoo and directly across from the beach. The property features whimsical architecture (designed to resemble a Chinese lantern) and bright ocean-inspired interiors. Families will love the hotel’s perks: catch a free hula show under the banyan tree on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; children receive a free beach pail, shovel and mini goldfish toy per room; and surfers can store their boards in a special locker. 

Book here

—Kate Loweth

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Disney Channel, Disney Junior & Disney XD Release Holiday Lineup

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Your little ones will be so excited to tune in. Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD are spreading holiday cheer with new themed programming including festive episodes of DuckTales, Disney Fam Jam, Puppy Dog Pals and a one-hour special episode of Raven’s Home. The episodes will premiere Sat., Nov. 28 and continue airing throughout the month of December.

Ducktales

Additional highlights include the animated special The Snowy Day, based on the beloved children’s book by Ezra Jack Keats, and two Random Rings animated shorts featuring ZOMBIES 2 stars Chandler Kinney and Trevor Tordjman.

Raven's Home

DisneyNOW will also present a collection of new and existing holiday-themed episodes, movies and short-form content beginning Fri., Nov. 27. Also included in DisneyNOW are holiday-themed levels of favorite games launching Tue., Dec. 1 and a new “Mickey’s Holiday Party” mini-game debuting each day throughout the month of December.

Disney Fam Jam

Saturday, November 28

Snowsnaps – “Gone to the Dogs” (Short-form)

Violet and Tomas challenge Kiki and Sami to a dogsled.

8:55 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior

 

Sunday November 29

“Put The Happy In The Holidays” Music Video

Disney Channel stars come together and sing “Put The Happy In The Holidays” a festive and upbeat holiday song to bring joy to kids and families around the world. The lively music video, filled with holiday cheer, will feature ZOMBIES 2 stars Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney and Trevor Tordjman plus Raven’s Home stars Navia Robinson, Sky Katz, Issac Ryan Brown and Sydney to the Max star Ruth Righi.

Airing on Disney Channel and DisneyMusicVEVO

 

Monday, November 30

Chuggington: Tales from the Rails – “Chugging Home for the Holidays”

Wilson, Koko, and Brewster visit San Locomota to experience Rosa’s holiday traditions.

8:15 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior and in DisneyNOW

 

Vampirina – “The Fright Before Christmas” / “Scared Snowman”

In the first story of the episode, Vampirina plans a spooky scare in the hopes of attracting Spooky Claus so that her family can enjoy a festive Transylvanian Christmas. Then, when the Abominable Snowman arrives at the Scare B&B after a big snowstorm, Vee and her friends help him overcome his fears. 

Chris Sullivan (This Is Us) guest stars as Steve, the Abominable Snowman

11:00 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior and in DisneyNOW

 

DuckTales – “How Santa Stole Christmas!”

Scrooge teams up with his archrival, Santa Claus, to save Christmas, while Webby discovers the true history behind their infamous feud. *Hugh Bonneville (“Downton Abbey”) guest stars as Santa Claus.

7:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD and in DisneyNOW

 

Friday, December 4 

Puppy Dog Pals – “A Christmas Mission in Toyland” / “Nine Lights Tonight!”

In the first story, Auggie and Mo help recite their naptime Christmas story when the pages of their book go missing. In the second story, Bingo and Rolly go on a mission to help Santa and Mrs. Claus replace the lights on their friend’s Hanukkiah.

Henry Winkler (Happy Days) returns as Santa.

9:00 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW

 

The Snowy Day

Based on the award-winning book by Ezra Jack Keats. Peter goes on a magical, snowy walk to his Nana’s house to bring home their Christmas Eve dinner.

11:00 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel

 

Piney: The Lonesome Pine

A cheerful girl grows a talking pine to be her Christmas tree, but when he’s accidentally removed from her grandfather’s Christmas tree farm, the family dog leads him on a journey across the countryside while the girl and her grandpa search to get them home before Christmas.

7:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior and in DisneyNOW

 

Disney Holiday Magic Quest

Virtually hosted by Raven-Symoné, features ZOMBIES 2 stars Milo Manheim, Kylee Russell, Ariel Martin and Pearce Joza competing in a high-stakes, holiday adventure inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort after dark. The stars will navigate a series of challenges and obstacles through iconic Disney attractions, including the Haunted Mansion and Cinderella Castle, in an attempt to restore the holiday magic that was stolen by famed Disney villains Maleficent and Evil Queen. As stars compete for the grand prize, proceeds will be donated to Toys for Tots, a nonprofit organization that delivers hope and the magic of the holidays to less fortunate children.

8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW day after

 

Disney Fam Jam – “Jolly Holidance”

Ariel Martin and Trevor Tordjman host the family dance competition as two holiday-obsessed families dance it out to their favorite seasonal songs and become the “Disney Fam Jam” champions. Choreographer Phil Wright lends his expertise to help the Villalobos and Mucha families incorporate their creativity and holiday tradition into their routines.

8:45 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW

 

Saturday, December 5

Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir –  “Chris Master”

Nino’s little brother transforms into Chris Master and sends giant toys out to wreak havoc throughout Paris, looking for Santa Claus. 

8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW

 

Sunday, December 6

Challenge Accepted! Disney Channel’s Epic Holiday Showdown

Centers around Santa and Mrs. Claus, played by Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner, respectively, as they enlist the help of Disney Channel stars to save the holidays from Ebenezer Scrooge (Raven’s Home star Anneliese van der Pol). The stars will take on a series of zany holiday-themed challenges to lift her evil curse on Christmas. The special will include a performance by ZOMBIES 2 star Meg Donnelly with one lucky fan, and a show-stopping number by global pop group “Now United.” Also starring Milo Manheim, Chandler Kinney, Trevor Tordjman, Kylee Russell, Issac Ryan Brown, Navia Robinson, Sky Katz, Jason Maybaum, Mallory Mahoney, Raphael Alejandro, Will Buie Jr., Christian J. Simon, Ruth Righi, Ava Kolker and Ramon Reed.

7:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW day after

 

Monday, December 7

Oddbods – “The Festive Menace”

T’was the night before Christmas and trouble is brewing, Santa’s gone bad and it’s the Oddbods doing.

7:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD and in DisneyNOW

 

Tuesday, December 8

Random Rings – “Cricket Pranks Chandler” (Short-form)

Cricket pretends to be Santa Claus and tells Chandler Kinney (Zombies 2) she’s on Santa’s naughty list, unless she mails Cricket a bunch of money.

Airing on Disney Channel and Disney Channel YouTube

 

Friday, December 11 

Bluey – “Christmas Swim”

Bluey gets a new teddy for Christmas and introduces him to the whole family. But the family plays too rough with him and now he wants to go home. Until Frisky convinces him to stay.

10:30 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW

 

Disney Channel Holiday House Party

Features Disney Channel stars, remotely from their homes, delivering a holiday sketch comedy show for kids and families. Hosted by Miranda May (BUNK’D), the ensemble of comedic actors will deck the halls with a variety of wacky characters and hilarious sketches, including a Gen Z influencer take on a Charles Dickens classic, a Disney Wand ID fail and a High School Musical throwback. Starring are Raphael Alejandro, Suzi Barrett, Issac Ryan Brown, Kylie Cantrall, Scarlett Estevez, Kaylin Hayman, Ramon Reed, Trevor Tordjman, Ruby Rose Turner and Tobie Windham.

8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW day after

 

Just Roll With It – “The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year”

When Rachel is put in charge of running Beatz 101’s charity Christmas telethon and the starring act’s props and costumes are mysteriously destroyed right before the show, Owen takes it upon himself to uncover the mystery of “who dunnit.”

8:25 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW 

 

Monday, December 14 

“Vampirina” – “New Century’s Eve” / “Bridget to the Brave”

In the first story of the episode, Vampirina and her family celebrate New Century’s Eve and learn that following their resolutions is harder than they thought. Then, Bridget finds a spell book in the attic and accidently casts a spell that makes her fearsome instead of fearless.

11:00 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior and in DisneyNOW

 

Tuesday, December 15

Random Rings “Tilly Tests Trevor” (Short-form)

Tilly is making her very own Christmas movie and wants to cast Trevor Tordjman (“Zombies 2”) as Santa Claus, but Gramma Alice challenges Trevor to prove he’s worthy of the role.

Airing on Disney Channel, and Disney Channel YouTube

 

Friday, December 18 

Raven’s Home One-hour Holiday Episode – “Mad About Yuletide”

It’s Christmas Eve and the Baxter/Grayson family are trying to make the best of the holiday when a storm hits and disrupts their plans to celebrate together at a cabin on the lake. Snowed in at three different places – Raven and Chelsea are lost in a snow tunnel, dads Devon and Garrett are stuck at the cabin and the kids are home alone – they all must lean on each other to help keep their inner “Christmas Cray” alive!  

8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW

 

Sunday, December 27 

Fancy Nancy – “New Year’s Nancy” / “Nancy’s Gift to Grandpa”

In the first story of the episode, Nancy wants to stay up until midnight on New Year’s Eve, but finds that staying awake is harder than she thought. Then, to cheer up Grandpa on a wintry day, Nancy draws a masterpiece in chalk on the driveway.

Kal Penn and Aparna Nancherla (both from Disney’s Mira, Royal Detective) return as Mr. and Mrs. Singh. George Wendt (Cheers) returns as Nancy’s Grandpa.

12:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Junior and in DisneyNOW

 

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Disney

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American Museum of Natural History to Host MarsFest at Home

by Jennifer Swartvagher

The American Museum of Natural History is hosting an online day of live events in honor of the Red Planet. MarsFest will celebrate Friday’s scheduled launch of NASA’s mission to Mars. Beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Wed., Jul. 29, MarsFest at Home will offer a varied slate of programming, including: a special edition of the Museum’s Scientists at Home program with Museum Curator and meteoriticist Denton Ebel on what to expect from the latest mission in NASA’s Mars Exploration Program; a live guided virtual flight with Caltech professor and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Research Scientist Bethany L. Ehlmann and the Museum’s Director of Astrovisualization Carter Emmart to the locations on Mars that Perseverance is targeting; and a space comedy jam featuring Marcia Belsky, Jay Jurden, Pooja Reddy, Chris Duffy, and Karen Chee. 

MarsFest

MarsFest programming, which will be accessible via individual links available at amnh.org/calendar/mars-fest and below, includes:

10 am: Scientists at Home: Mars 2020—Live Watch Party: On July 30, NASA is planning to launch the Mars 2020 mission and send the Perseverance rover to collect samples from the Red Planet’s rocky surface in search of signs of ancient life. Join a live session with Museum Curator Denton Ebel, chair of the Division of Earth and Planetary Sciences, to find out what to expect from the latest, long-awaited mission in NASA’s Mars Exploration Program—including how it may help advance human exploration of our neighboring planet.  

1 pm: Field Trip–Mars 2020: As part of NASA’s Mars 2020 mission, the Perseverance rover will launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida. What could this mission tell us about water and life on the Red Planet? Caltech professor and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Research Scientist Bethany L. Ehlmann will lead us on a virtual field trip to the very locations that Perseverance is targeting to help answer these questions. Dr. Ehlmann will be joined by the Museum’s Director of Astrovisualization Carter Emmart and scientists in the chat to answer your questions live on YouTube.

8 pm: Space Comedy Jam: Tune in to a livestream comedy show celebrating all things space! As part of MarsFest, a stellar lineup of comedians will perform stand-up and funny songs, as well as play space-related games with you, the audience—all from the comfort of your own home! The program features Marcia Belsky, Jay Jurden, Pooja Reddy, and Chris Duffy and is hosted by Karen Chee. Viewers should register for this Zoom event.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: American Museum of Natural History

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LOL! Hilarious Comedy Events for the Whole Family

by Kerry Cushman

Laughter is the best medicine, right? Then consider this list your prescription for family fun. From all ages comedy shows to musical productions and improv classes, it’s time to amp up your clan’s plans to include some major laughs. We’ve rounded up the best spots in SoCal to get the whole family laughing out loud. Scroll on to check out the (hilarious) list.

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience

San Diego Junior Theatre

Based on the book by Mo Willems, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience is a cheeky Junior Theatre production at the Casa del Prado Theatre in San Diego. Recommended for all-ages, this musical follows Wilbur the mole rat as he tries on a hat and it change his life. Get ready for giggles and an inspiring message about being yourself. Running February 28 thru March 8, 2020. Sensory-Friendly and ASL-Interpreted performances on Saturday, March 7th.

Online: juniortheatre.com

Boom! Improv Comedy For Kids

Nell E. via Yelp

Tired of answering the same-old knock knock jokes? Sign your budding comic up for Boom! Improv for Kids comedy classes with the Old Town Improv Co. This 7-week after-school program teaches comedy to kids in grades 2-5 and pre-teens in grades 4-8. Classes are held in Encinitas and Old Town and each session ends with a showcase at their theatre in Old Town. Not only will your kiddos learn some new material, but they'll also tap into creativity, listening skills and teamwork.

Online: oldtownimprov.com

Yaycation at the San Diego Zoo

Orangemania via flickr

If cat videos and silly animals send your whole family into hysterics, then head to the San Diego Zoo for Yaycation from April 6 to 21. This super-silly time to visit the Zoo includes daily performances of Dr. Zoolittle Springs into Springtime, where the zany Dr. Z gets the whole crowd laughing at the wonders of spring. The family will also love putting on 4-D glasses for Smallfoot in the 4-D Theater. This fun-for-all-ages show features a yeti who finds something he thought didn’t exist—a human! Yaycation also includes a zoo treasure hunt and entertaining animal encounters.

Online: sandiegozoo.org

Family-Friendly Improv at National Comedy Theatre

National Comedy Theatre

Get ready to laugh your socks off at the fast-paced 'Who's Line is it Anyway' style improv at the National Comedy Theatre. The early show on Friday and Saturday nights is clean comedy fun that's perfect for families with kids age 8 and up. No quieting the kids here, the entire show is based on audience participation, which means the crowd picks the games, calls the fouls and decides the winner!

Online: nationalcomedy.com

Baby Shark Live at the Balboa Theatre

Baby Shark Live via Facebook

The 8th most viewed video in the history of YouTube is coming to the big stage! That's right, Baby Shark Live is coming to the Balboa Theater in San Diego and it will surely bring smiles and giggles to your little music-lovers. This fully-immersive concert experience follows Baby Shark on an adventure into the sea with his friend Pinkfong. Kids will sing and dance as they follow along with classic kids' songs, including the one they all came to hear, Baby Shark. Catch Baby Shark Live at the Balboa Theater on April 4, 2020.

Online: ticketmaster.com

The Really Awesome Improv Show

The Second City Hollywood via Yelp

The Second City comedy theater has been bringing laughs and improv-based sketch comedy for over 50 years. Eight years ago, this famed comedy theater launched The Really Awesome Improv Show, a high energy family-friendly comedy show at their Hollywood location. Featuring games that rely on audience suggestions and participation, the whole family will get in on the action and nonstop laughter. This all-ages show runs every Saturday and Sunday at noon. The show is one-hour long, has a rotating cast and costs $5 per person.

Online: secondcity.com

IMPROVology with the Santa Barbara Zoo

David Bazemore

This science and comedy mashup started out as an all-ages improv at the Santa Barbara Zoo. It has since outgrown its original location and moved to Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theatre with three upcoming shows in 2020. Mixing world-class comedians and animal experts, this live family-friendly event will get the whole family cracking up with cool stories about critters, 'Who's Line is it Anyway' type skits and audience participation. Catch the hilarious fun on 2/20, 6/18 and 10/8.

Online: lobero.org

Two Milk Minimum Comedy Show

Flappers Comedy Club

The Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank presents Two Milk Minimum, a hilarious family-friendly comedy show hosted by Michael Rayner. The show features a rotating group of comedy magicians, jugglers, improv artists and puppeteers that will get the whole crew laughing. With a full menu for adults and kids, it's dinner and a show for a super-fun family date night.

Online: flapperscomedy.com

—Kerry Cushman

featured image: Laura Green

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25 Incredible Family Cruises to Book Now

by Kate Loweth

If you’ve set your sights on setting sail in the near future, we’ve got the list for you. Family cruises are fantastic vacation options for big groups, as they offer tons of experiences both on- and off-ship. From roller coasters and trampoline parks to ziplining and swimming with dolphins, family cruises offer them all. We’ve rounded up a slew of our favorites—so cruise on!

Galapagos—Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions

Meet the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands—from sea lions and blue-footed boobies to giant tortoises and Darwin’s finches. This 48-person cruise will have you snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding and exploring the wildlife and local culture.

Kids will love participating in the onboard National Geographic Global Explorers program where they can choose among a host of cool activities—from recording wildlife sightings in their field notebook to collecting and observing plankton fresh from the ocean—all designed to help them develop what National Geographic Education defines as the attitudes, skills and knowledge of an explorer. They can collect points on their way to becoming a National Geographic Global Explorer—with the certification to prove it!

From $5,730/person for a 7-day Galapagos trip, kids save $500

Read more: expeditions.com

Caribbean, Baja and Alaska—Disney Cruise Lines

Disney Cruise

If you want an ultra-magical family cruise experience, Disney has you covered. When you board a Disney cruise ship, character appearances, onboard themes like Pirate Night and all the magic of a Disney theme park set sail with you. Itineraries abound, from a three-to seven-night Bahamian adventure that kicks off from Texas, Florida or New York and includes an excursion to Disney’s very own private tropical island, Castaway Cay, to a two-to five-night cruise to Baja.

Onboard activities happen from opening time to closing time at the ship's kids club and the schedule varies: there are talent shows, a Magic PlayFloor where kids’ movements control the action (think flying over London with Peter Pan.) and for any Star Wars fans—Jedi Knight training and challenges. There's even a club for tweens and teens to hang out. Read all about the onboard activities here.

Stay tuned for 2022: Disney just announced that its newest ship the Disney Wish will be headed to a port near you! Around that same time, Disney plans to open another private island in the Bahamas.

Find out more: disneycruise.disney.go.com

Hawaii—UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise

UnCruise offers a different type of cruise, and families will love it. Think smaller ship, more individualized attention and programming that kids and parents will both enjoy. Just recently, UnCruise started sailing around Hawaii year round, and it's been an instant family favorite. You can visit four islands: Molokai, Hawai’i, Maui, Lanai, and you have the opportunity to view loads of marine life. No need to dock and pick up another boat to go snorkeling or swimming, there's an option to do so right off the ship, along with paddleboarding.

UnCruise prices its adventures to include everything from room charges, meals, alcoholic beverages and even off-ship excursions, so you know upfront what your vacation will cost. There won't be any expectations to bring fancy clothing to dress up for dinner, as meals are much more streamlined on UnCruise. It really caters to families looking for bucket list experiences. Kids eight and up are always welcome, and special exceptions are made for those seven and under.

Seven-day cruise costs $5,195 and up with kids 8-13 save $500

Read more: uncruise.com

Iceland, Greenland, Arctic and More—Adventure Canada

Dennis Minty

A cruise unlike all others, an Adventure Canada expedition cruise takes you to far-away places that you've only dreamed of. Kids of every age can hop aboard zodiac boats to head ashore and explore Viking ruins, hike to waterfalls and learn all about villages buried under years-ago volcanic eruptions. Expedition cruise life means you'll get cultural immersion in the towns that you visit and learn from local experts and naturalists. These excursions are perfect for multi-generational travel as small ships are easy for the mobility-restricted to manage and not so big that you worry you'll lose the kids on board.

Kids under age 2 are free, those ages 2-4 pay only for charter airfare and everyone under 30 saves 30%.

Read more: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Panama Canal, Costa Rica & Caribbean—Princess Cruises

princess cruises
Kristina Moy

Thanks to its Discovery at SEA program, Princess Cruises caters to kids of all ages both on deck and ashore. New programs are rolling out fleet wide, with new center designs launching throughout 2019 as part of Camp Discovery. The Treehouse is now dedicated to three-to seven-year-olds for hands-on play and fun; The Lodge serves up sports and comfort for eight-to 12-year-olds, and The Beach House will be the onboard hangout for teens. Did we mention these are all included? Learn all about it here.

Even better news? Princess Cruises MedallionClass Vacations now offer a variety of new features specifically designed to enhance everyone's vacation experience. Through the use of an OceanMedallion, families cruising with Princess can now expect an expedited ship to shore experience along with onboard on-demand delivery service, real-time navigation and interactive features on every floor. Learn more about the first MedallionClass ship enabled by OceanMedallion here.

Everyone can stay in comfort in a Mini-Suite with convertible bunk beds for the kids, or larger Family Suites with separate bedrooms. You’ll be well rested when it’s time to snorkel and kayak at a tropical port, like those on their 10-day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean. You can get up close and personal with both baby and 600-pound turtles at Cayman Turtle Farm, encounter sloths IRL at a Costa Rican sanctuary or ride a rainforest aerial tram. Thanks to Discovery Family Tours, many hands-on experiences are designed for ages 3-12.

Rates start at $1,009

Find out more: princess.com

Blue Danube Family Riverboat Adventure—Tauck

Guests on this European journey fly into Munich and board the riverboat in Vilshofen. A subsequent stop in Germany visits Passau (where everyone can learn to make marzipan!) before the ship sails into Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Along the way, guests enjoy an Imperial Evening inside a private Viennese palace, a cycling excursion along the Danube, medieval games in Slovakia and visits to castles, catacombs, an amusement park and sites from the film, “The Sound of Music.”

Parents enjoy this cruise because it’s fully inclusive, so there’s zero stress about mounting costs throughout the trip. Prices include all shore excursions, all gratuities, all meals, all onboard beverages (adult and otherwise), all activities, airport transfers, luggage handling and much more.

From $4,390/person plus airfare for this 7-night cruise

Read more: tauck.com

Costa Rica and Panama—Windstar Cruises

The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season) when you can explore rain forests or lounge on the beach without weather interrupting the fun. That's also the time when most tourists want to visit, meaning higher prices on hotel rooms and at resorts, along with more people.

Enter Windstar. The cruise line sails in the region in the winter only (both the 212-passenger all-suite Star Legend and 148-passenger motorized sailing yacht Wind Star run sailings) and accesses smaller ports and islands away from the crowds. Windstar makes "wet landings" because that's the only way to reach the shore in these tiny ports. Rugged inflatable boats deliver you directly from the yacht to the beach, where you disembark directly in the water. All of this means you'll still enjoy the best weather of the year, but on an uncrowded ship that also offers boutique, small-sized (and fairly priced) shore excursions that help you do things like sport fishing in areas protected from the winter winds.

Windstar has a naturalist onboard all of their Costa Rica and Panama Canal sailings, so guests get extra insight into the flora and fauna of the region. This cruise appeals to multi-generational families traveling together because of all the varied offerings. Kids must be eight and older to sail.

Read more: windstarcruises.com

Mediterranean—Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises

From the moment guests step onboard a Costa Cruise, they're treated to a uniquely immersive cultural experience. Families can embark on an unforgettable voyage through the history books on a 10-night Mediterranean cruise. Sailing roundtrip from Venice, Costa Victoria visits legendary ports throughout Italy, Greece and Croatia. The ship calls at Bari, Italy; Argostoli/Kefalonia, Athens, Santorini, Rhodes and Crete Greece; Kotor, Montenegro; and Split, Croatia. Families can enjoy a serene gondola ride through Venice's famed canal, walk in history's footsteps with a visit to Athens' ancient Acropolis or discover the Medieval treasures of Kotor.
 
Children can get up close and personal with Peppa Pig at the Squok Club or experience a thrilling water slide at the popular Aquapark. The Squok Club also provides special programming that gives junior cruisers the chance to either be “Captain for a Day” or “Princess for a Day,” where they can dress up, act the part and enjoy special themed activities.
 
From $1,009 per person for a 10-night Mediterranean cruise
 
Read more: costacruises.com

Tahiti & the Society Islands—Paul Gaugain Cruises

Paul Gaugain Cruises

Sailing to exotic islands in French Polynesia is special and offers families a way to experience this unique destination seamlessly. On all sailings, guests receive complimentary access to Paul Gauguin Cruises’ two exclusive retreats. Off the coast of Taha’a lies the private islet of Motu Mahana, where guests can enjoy a day of watersports, Polynesian activities, a sumptuous barbecue feast and cocktails from full and floating bars. In Bora Bora, guests can relax on a private, white-sand beach and enjoy refreshments, a game of volleyball, snorkeling and paddleboarding.

The ship's Moana Explorer program invites guests to discover and value the natural wonders of this breathtaking part of the world through hands-on, interactive learning on summer and December holiday sailings. While it is designed for children and teens ages 7-17, all family members are welcome to participate. Every day of the voyage, there is a combination of naturalist-led island and/or beach excursions, science activities, crafts, games and other adventures.

From $4,295/person including economy airfare from LA. The third person 17 and under in a stateroom is free, exclusive of airfare and taxes.

Read more: pgcruises.com

Florida to San Juan—Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises’ ocean vessels feature a fully supervised Junior Activities program for kids between the ages of 3 and 17 on holiday voyages and nearly all summer sailings, each with dedicated play areas for both young kids and teens. The kids club Fantasia for ages 3-12, and Waves teen club from ages 13-17, welcomes junior cruises with games, crafts, popular Sony PlayStation and Xbox 360 kiosks to play on large-screen televisions. Children aboard call also enjoy board games and personal computers with entertainment and education. Kids of all ages can also enjoy a special Junior Cruiser's menu (hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, etc.).

On the Colorful Cultures cruise, families can relish in the rejuvenating calm of the Caribbean while sailing from Fort Lauderdale to San Juan aboard Crystal Serenity. Families can snorkel in St. Thomas, participate in a semi-submarine adventure in St. Barts and hike in the rain forest in Saint Kitts while creating experiences to remember for a lifetime. From $1,695/person for this 8-night cruise Read more: crystalcruises.com

Castles along the Rhine—Uniworld

We love the river cruise option for families as it provides a smaller ship experience with tons of stops along the way. This 8-day cruise takes a maximum of 152 passengers down the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other. Marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses, and get an insider’s look at one of the only castles on the Rhine that has never been destroyed, Marksburg Castle. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg, then stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim.

Families will especially enjoy the Generations Family Program, which includes special programs, events and excursions designed specifically for your world travelers in training. Travelers ages 4-17 receive a 25% fare discount on these trips.

From $2,999/person for 8-day Basel to Amsterdam journey

Read more: uniworld.com

Hawaii—Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises

Why settle for seeing just one island on your Hawaiian vacation when you can cruise in style and explore four island jewels? Sailing with Princess is a far better vacation value and you’ll visit the top-rated Hawaiian islands—Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island—without all the time-consuming hassle of island hopping by plane. From enriching Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions to the immersive "Aloha Spirit" program onboard, you'll discover each island's unique charm and fall in love with Hawaii's enchanting beauty.

From $1,599 for a 15-day Hawaiian excursion. 

Find out more: princess.com

Galapagos—Adventure LIfe

This eight-day Galapagos cruise specially designed for families with children covers the highlights of the Western Islands. Spend your days discovering the beauty and wonders of the Galapagos and exploring the wildlife-rich shores of San Cristobal, Genovesa, Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Isabela and Santiago. Celebrate crossing the equator with a King Neptune kid's costume party and enjoy shipboard educational activities such as board games, games with prizes, drawing contests, talent shows and ice cream sundaes. Kids must be five or older. 

Rates start at $7,850

Read more: adventure-life.com

The Great Lakes—Victory Cruise Lines

Victory Cruise Line

The M/V Victory I, designed for coastal cruising, will set sail on the storied Georgian Bay starting in May 2019. Guests can admire the natural beauty of Niagara Falls and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Southern Canadian Coast. This ship is purposefully-designed for coastal cruising, with every modern convenience to explore North America’s maritime history throughout the Great Lakes and southern Canadian coast. Guests onboard will enjoy immersive and inclusive shore excursions in each port of call, exquisite multi-course fine dining with specialty and casual options including spirits, beer and wine; onboard enrichment, evening entertainment and Wi-Fi in public areas.

Rates start at $3,989

Find out more: victorycruiselines.com

Princess Land and Sea—Alaska

Princess Cruise Line

To really experience The Last Frontier, families can embark on a two-week trip on a Princess Land and Sea excursion which includes exploring the Alaska Interior (including Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks). Princess Cruise Line has been in Alaska since the 1970s (they are celebrating 50 years in 2019), so they have deep relationships in most Alaska communities. Princess is the only cruise line that owns lodges, as well as train cars, which makes for seamless travel (music to our ears when traveling with kids), so they are the go-to partner for many travelers for Alaska Land and Sea packages. If you can, book a MedallionClass ship, Princesses newest technology that make onboarding, managing services and keeping track of kids much easier. For more detail about how the Ocean Medallion systems works, click here.

You can bundle anywhere from 3-10 nights on land into your 7-day cruise, and opt to do it “On Your Own” (no prescheduled activities), Connoisseur (includes planned excursions and a Tour Director) or pick a few options in between.

TIP: If you’re doing a Land and Seas excursion, we definitely recommend scheduling the land portion FIRST. While Princess makes moving around Alaska interior pretty easy, after 4 or 5 nights in different lodges, it was a treat to unpack our suitcase in our cabin on the cruise ship and have our cabin and personal items safely stored for the rest of the trip.

Get a three-day sample itinerary by clicking on our insider's guide.

Quebec City—Cunard

Cunard

Cunard’s Quebec City itineraries offer the opportunity for multi-generational families to travel and spend much-needed quality time together. Queen Mary 2 offers unique activities for families, including taking a virtual ride into space with the ship’s full-scale planetarium, watercolor painting classes and even learning how to fence.

Cunard offers a variety of areas dedicated to hosting and entertaining children while onboard. They include the Night Nursery, where infants aged 6 to 24 months are housed by childcare professionals and parents are given a pager in case their child wakes. For older children, Cunard offers the Play Zone for kids ages 2-7, and the Kids Zone for kids ages 8-17, which includes fun activities, arts and crafts, gaming consoles and planned excursions to the ship’s theatre or cinema. The Teen Zone accommodates ages 13-17 and offers planned activities such as deck sports, karaoke, gaming, quizzes and more. Infants under two sail for free, while ages two and up sail at half fare (when sailing as the third or fourth passenger in the cabin).

Read more: cunard.com

Eastern Caribbean—Royal Caribbean

Rick Schwartz via Flickr

If you’re looking to zoom through Haitian skies on an absolutely epic zip-line (the longest in the world over water) or swim with dolphins in perfect turquoise waters, then a Royal Caribbean seven-night Eastern Caribbean or Western Caribbean cruise is for you (they have some 299 other destinations available, too). The adventure continues on deck, whether you fancy a surf in the FlowRider, thrilling waterslides, or mini golf—their Adventure Ocean youth program is a must for families.

Once the kids have discovered the Adventure Science Lab and Imagination Studio, they won’t even ask where you’ve gone (the Bottomless Galley Brunch, perhaps?). Little cruisers can jump into ball pits at Aquanauts while teens have a whole disco to themselves (dance party included). There are even Royal Tots playgroups for babies on board. Additional stops along the way include the Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first destination in Royal’s new private island collection, St. Maarten, the Bahamas Blue Lagoon Island and St. Thomas’s Turtle Bay. For a closer look, check out our insider's guide to the Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, the biggest cruise ship in the world!

Rates start at $628

Find out more: royalcaribbean.com

France—Avalon River Cruises

Rolf Heinrich via Flickr

If river cruising is more your family’s speed, Avalon Waterways has fantastic options for seeing Europe (or Asia or South America). You won’t find the clubs that keep the kids entertained during long stretches at sea, but you will find wraparound wonder with so much constantly in view right from the ship (your room included), making this a trip-of-a-lifetime for culture-seeking big kids.

If you have 9-16 days free in 2020, take a voyage down the epic Seine. A Grand France cruise stops at landmarks made famous by the likes of Napoleon, Joan of Art and Vincent Van Gogh. Plus, Paris! In addition to visits to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, the kids will love counting the 37 Parisian bridges—or challenge the family to keep a tally on the whole journey. Their MyAvalon service will also help you personalize shore excursions to your family’s liking. 

Rates start at $2,599

Find out more: avalonwaterways.com

Mississippi River—Riverboat Twilight

Corey Hapgood

If you’re not sure a week-long cruise or hours on the open sea are for you, check out Riverboat Twilight’s one and two-day cruises along the Mississippi River. The two-day cruise travels between LeClaire to Dubuque, Iowa, on an authentic paddleboat and gives the family the overnight experience of being on board a ship while taking in the gorgeous bluffs along the Mississippi. It also includes excursions like admission to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Prices start at $399/per person, with kids under 10 being just $159 (and children under 3 free).

Find out more: riverboattwilight.com

The Bahamas—Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line

The East Coast is a popular point of departure, and Norwegian is ready to sail you away to the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America, or the Bahamas. Head for Great Stirrup Cay—Norwegian’s own private island, complete with white sand and sea turtles to snorkel alongside. Don't forget to enjoy the complimentary taco bar, Abaco Taco (need we say more?). Norwegian’s youth programs, Splash Academy (ages three to 12) and Entourage (ages three to 17), are also complimentary for play and parties, while its Guppies Program hosts activities for parents and baby cruisers six months to three years (If you book a cruise on the Escape, there is also a Guppies Nursery.). While on Norwegian’s Breakaway, Getawa, and Epic ships, watch for Cirque Dreams to perform amazing acrobatic stunts.

TIP: On select 5 or 7-day cruises to the Bahamas, extra guests can sail for free!

Rates start at $549

Find out more: ncl.com

Alaska—Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Vast, wild and utterly gorgeous, Alaska tops many travelers’ must-visit lists. For families, a visit offers so much to see and do that nobody complains of being bored. Even tablets and iPods are likely to be set aside in favor of watching whales breach or listening to the thunder of a calving glacier. A cruise tour pairs the best of cruising with the best of land touring, showing off the heart of Alaska’s untamed wilderness and its scenic coastline. Aboard the Celebrity Millennium®, cruise the Inside Passage to Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Seward. Luxury motor coaches and glass-domed trains then carry you into the unspoiled interior, to lodges set in the shadow of awesome Denali. Take time to unwind and tuck into locally-sourced meals before joining a tour of breathtaking Denali National Park.

We love Celebrity Cruises for their inclusivity. They’ve gone the extra sea mile to ensure that their onboard environments are autism friendly for kids of all ages, with sensory toys and movie-viewing environments, gluten- and dairy-free menu options and well-trained Fun Factory and Youth Staff. Other services include priority check-in, equipping parents with contact phones while their kids are signed in to Fun Factory programs, and a Cruising Social Story booklet to download ahead of the cruise.

Rates start at $799

Find out more: celebritycruises.com

Great Britain—Poseidon Expeditions

Courtesy of Poseidon Expeditions

If you have rising history buffs in the family, want to take a closer look at medieval castle life, or be amazed by wildlife, take note that Poseidon Expeditions launched a brand new 13-day cruise, British Isles: Legendary History & Wild Nature, on May 22, 2019. You’ll have the chance to see baby puffins on the Skellig Islands off Ireland or spot otters and wild ponies while exploring Snowdonia National Park in Wales. Dolphins, whales, and seals are also likely to swim by. The kids can direct their nature questions to naturalist guides led by renowned historian Dr. Hew Lewis-Jones. With 55 guest suites aboard the Sea Spirit, the scale of this cruise isn’t overwhelming either, but rather a sure way to see remote and wondrous corners of Great Britain.

Rates start at $4,596

Find out more: poseidonexpeditions.com

Mexican Riviera—Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line

Did you hear? Carnival Panorama, their newest ship, will be ready to set sail from Long Beach and take your family on Mexican Riviera cruise starting this December 2019. Featuring the first Sky Zone Trampoline Park at sea (yes, you read that right!), the ship offers SportSquare’s mini-golf and games, ropes course, and the elevated SkyRide, as well as Choose Fun Waterworks (with two epic waterslides that are kid and parent friendly). The Camp Ocean kids club is another play area just for little cruisers (ages two to 11), while Serenity is an onboard retreat just for adults. The family can reunite for a comedy show or go head to head for a Lip Sync Battle.

The 7-day cruise takes you from Long Beach, CA with stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy ziplining, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking among other activities. For a kiddo’s first-hand take on all the Carnival fun, check out our report.

Rates start at $519

Find out more: carnival.com

Peru—Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions

Disconnect completely with a phone-free family vacation along the Peruvian Amazon in 5-star luxury aboard Aqua Expeditions' Aria Amazon. With no internet or cell reception, all 16 Design Suites on the Aria Amazon across the first and second deck measure 250 square feet, include air conditioning, polished timber flooring and its most amazing feature—a wall of floor-to-ceiling glass facing the Amazon River. Guests aboard the Aria Amazon can see sloths, elusive pink dolphins, all varieties of monkey, piranha, toucans, caimans, anacondas and more, and will visit multiple indigenous villages along the banks of the river. This one-of-a-kind digital detox will have the whole family reminiscing about their Amazon adventures for years to come.  

More info: aquaexpeditions.com

Norwegian Coast—Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten

Experience Norway’s beautiful fjords, charming ports, and rare wildlife under the midnight sun or the spectacular northern lights. On select Hurtigruten cruises, kids ages 6-12 can join the Young Explorers Program and learn about other cultures, the importance of nature in our daily lives and the impact humans have on our delicate and beautiful planet. A dedicated host will plan and organize all the activities, which focus on fun and eco-friendly learning events, tailor-made to awaken a sense of adventure.

Find out more: hurtigruten.com

Mediterranean Sea Cruise—Royal Caribbean

If you think exploring Europe with kids is impossible, consider taking a cruise around the Mediterranean with Royal Caribbean. You'll board in either Barcelona or Rome, and can enjoy exploring three different countries: Spain, France and Italy. There are plenty of kid-friendly excursions available to families, including pizza-making in Italy and beach days in Barcelona. Depending on which cruise you pick, you'll either be aboard the Oasis of the Seas or the Jewel of the Seas. Both ships are full of fun and adventure, including everything from Royal Caribbean's famous kids' clubs, original entertainment, pools, zip lines and more. 

Rates start at $456 per person.

Find out more: royalcaribbean.com

 

 

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