Reach deep and dust off your second grade genetics unit, because you’re going to want to follow along, here. Identical twins Briana and Brittany, 35, married identical twins Josh and Jeremy Salyers, 37. Each couple has had a baby, and the cousins are so genetically similar that they’re technically brothers.
Verbiage around different types of twins can get particular. “You’ve heard the term Irish twins and you’ve heard identical twins and fraternal twins,” Briana Salyers told TODAY Parents. “But we have quaternary twins.” Don’t bother looking it up in Wikipedia. It’s not in there.
Jett, who turned 1 in January, and Jax, who will turn 1 in April are cousins, but they’re also genetic brothers. “They were born to identical twin parents less than nine months apart,” Brittany Salyers explained. And since identical twins share the same DNA, the parents of both Jett and Jax—who are different—each have the same DNA as one another.
Not surprisingly, the sisters had hoped for overlapping pregnancies. “We thought it would be really cool,” Briana said. “There’s only 300 quaternary marriages known in the history of the world.” And naturally, you can follow along on this genetic journey via the couples’ joint Instagram page.
The couples married in a joint ceremony at the 2018 Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio, after meeting their respective spouses at the Twins Days Festival the year before. TLC recognized a good thing when they saw it and captured their joint weddings on camera. Both families live under one roof in Virginia and run a wedding venue site together.
“It was something we all four wanted and when we got engaged, we all wanted it that way,” Brittany told TODAY. “(Josh and Jeremy) understand the twin bond like we do. We get to have a lot of together time.”
“We try to ignore sociopathic stalker comments and just focus on the positive,” Brittany said of the sometimes critical commentary that pops up on their social media feed. “Some people think we are really strange and others think it’s really amazing.”
And like most young parents, “We are debating if we should go for one more pregnancy each or not,” Briana said. “We will make a decision pretty soon. The babies are still pretty young (and) we are trying to wait a little longer to see what to do.” Which means that they’re still up to their eyeballs in diapers and bottles, so tap the breaks, y’all. These four need a little space.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
"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
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All the world needs now, is love, sweet love and we have all the ways you can show love this Valentine’s Day right here. These Etsy Valentine’s Day gifts for kids include lots of personalized options that we know won’t get cast away on February 15th. Your little one will definitely feel the love when receiving one of these options!
Seeing a show during the holidays is a tradition for many families. Lucky for New Yorkers, there’s lots to choose from here. From shows for little ones to modern circus, or perhaps an outdoor light show this year. We’ve rounded up the best holiday shows this season here! (Looking for Nutcracker shows? They’re here!) [Editor’s note: with the recent Covid surge in NYC, some shows are suspending or ending runs. Double-check a show’s status before making plans!]
(Don’t forget: Starting December 14th, children aged 5-11 will be required to show proof of one vaccination dose for indoor dining, fitness and entertainment. Starting December 27th, New Yorkers aged 12 and older will be required to show proof of two vaccine doses, instead of one, except for those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.)
Theatrical Productions
Radio City Christmas Spectacular with The Rockettes
MSG Productions
[The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes canceled the remainder of its 2021/22 season run.]
The Rockettes are back, baby! And they’re even bringing back a beloved number to celebrate. The addition of “Snow”, which turns the stage into a winter wonderland, brings the total of numbers in the classic, 90-minute holiday show to nine. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes runs from November 5 to January 2, 2022, and tickets are on sale now.
$49 and up Nov. 5, 2021- Jan. 2, 2022 Radio City Music Hall 1260 Sixth Ave. Midtown Online: rockettes.com
Jim Henson’s Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas
Based on Jim Henson’s beloved television special, this show takes audiences to Frogtown Hollow where Ma and Emmet Otter risk what little they have to make each other’s holiday dreams come true. Featuring a cast of performers with puppets from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, and a toe-tapping score by legendary songwriter Paul Williams, this merry musical is recommended for ages five and up.
Tickets: $25 and up New Victory Theater 209 W. 42nd St. Times Square 646-223-3010 Online: newvictory.org
'Twas the Night Before…By Cirque du Soleil
Errisson Lawrence
Cirque du Soleil’s exhilarating spin on the beloved Christmas tale returns to the Hulu Theater for the holidays—its previous run at the venue sold out all 25 performances. The production marks Cirque du Soleil’s first-ever Christmas show and is a flurry of Christmas cheer, rip-roaring fun with hugely lovable characters and of course, incredible and entertaining physical feats.
Dec. 9 - 27 Tickets: $40 and up Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden 4 Penn Plaza Midtown 212-465-6000 Online: msg.com
Big Apple Circus
Robert West
Heads up: Big Apple Circus is returning to Lincoln Center with a new show, “Making The Impossible, Possible!”, helmed by world-renowned aerialist, high wire artist and Guinness World Record holder, Nik Wallenda. Acts joining Wallenda include Johnny Rockett, a combination of Evel Knievel & Charlie Chaplin (shown here), and Alan Silva from America’s Got Talent who will act as the circus' Ringmaster. Plus: an incredible cast of circus acts from around the world. Snag your tickets now—the show debuts on November 11!
Nov. 11 - Jan. 30, 2022 Tickets: $25 and up Lincoln Center Midtown Online: bigapplecircus.com
CocoMelon LIVE! JJ's Journey
Image courtesy of Moonbug Entertainment and EMC Entertainment
This live production is a journey through the world of CoComelon, featuring all the favorite characters and over 20 songs, including new original music. When JJ and his family are putting on a show, JJ needs some help writing his own song. Along the way he learns that by using his imagination, he can create, solve problems and have wonderful adventures.
Dec. 4 & 5, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m Tickets: $51 and up Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden 4 Penn Plaza Midtown 212-465-6741 Online: cocomelonlive.com
The Elf On The Shelf: A Christmas Musical
Ken Ek
Yes, the holiday tradition is now a musical. The Elf on the Shelf: The Musical is a spectacle of music and dance that transports audiences to the North Pole to glimpse the magical lives of Santa’s Scout Elves. Featuring an original story and score, dazzling sets and costumes, and heartfelt moments, this joyous show celebrates the splendor of the season.
The 30th Annual Double Dutch Holiday Classic presented by the National Double Dutch League, returns to the Apollo stage—bringing together national and international communities of jumpers. Act fast! This sells out and tickets are getting snapped up!
Sun., Dec. 5, 1 p.m. Tickets: $25/individual, groups of 10 or more $25/person 253 West 125th St. The Apollo Theater Harlem 1-800-745-3000 Online: apollotheater.org
Light Shows & Displays
Winter Lantern Festival
Winter Lantern Festival
This lantern display returns to the New York City area with three locations for 2021. At Snug Harbor on Staten Island, check out ESCAPE: over eight acres of luminescence you can walk amongst and through. (It's back for the third year at this spot.) In addition to the lantern display, there will be a live DJ, projection mapping, food vendors, and more.
Starting Nov. 25, the Queens County Farm Museum will host Illuminate The Farm, an immersive and radiant world of color. It's a dazzling display of festive holiday lights and handmade lanterns in the shape of flowers, tractors, favorite farm animals and more.
Finally, Long Island's Nassau County Museum of Art hosts "A Bug’s Night", a drive-through immersive experience. Roll through over 20 acres of vivid lanterns and holiday lights in the shape of flowers, bugs, animals.
ESCAPE Oct. 22-Jan. 9, 2022 Tickets: $25/adults; $17/ages 3-12; Holiday week, $30/adults, $17/ages 3-12 Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY Online: nycwinterlanternfestival.com
A Bug's Night Drive Through Adventure Oct. 22-Jan. 9, 2022 Tickets: Wed.-Thurs., $35/car, Fri-Sun, $50/car; Holiday week (Dec. 24-Jan. 2)/$60/car Nassau County Museum of Art One Museum Dr. Roslyn, NY Online: nycwinterlanternfestival.com
Illuminate the Farm Nov. 25-Jan. 9, 2022 Tickets: $25/adults; $17/ages 3-12; Holiday week, $30/adults, $17/ages 3-12 Queens County Farm Museum 73-50 Little Neck Parkwy Queens Online:nycwinterlanternfestival.com
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Julie Larsen Maher
This popular animal-themed light and lantern display returns to the zoo starting November 19. See 260 lanterns representing almost 70 animal and plant species from around the globe. This year, 79 new lanterns representing 30 new animal species will make their debut at the zoo. But the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is more than a display: activities and entertainment include ice-carving demonstrations, stilt-walkers, puppet shows, a holiday train and even treats like s’mores. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
The LuminoCity Festival, a spectacular display of larger-than-life figures lit from within returns to Randall’s Island this winter. ‘Shine Again’ is the theme of the event, which features exhibitions of spectacular light art displays inspired by the traditional art of Chinese lantern festivals. “Lumio”, the LuminoCity Festival mascot serves as your guide through the fantastical landscape, which features new displays for 2021. The all-new ‘Lumi’s Utopia” will include 3D sculptures made from drawings by six young artists, while “Lumi’s Friends” will feature light sculptures of social media pets @smoothiethecat & @turboroo.
Nov. 12 - Jan., 2022 Tickets: $22-$76, timed entry Whitney Pond Park 133 Valley Rd. Manhasset, NY Online: luminocityfestival.com
Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Lightscape is coming to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden this winter. A new after-dark, illuminated spectacular lightscape celebrates the beauty of nature in winter with a festive one-mile trail winding through the garden’s 52-acre landscape, animated by dazzling light, color, and sound. More than 18 distinct works of light art will be on view, among them the Cathedral of Light tunnel, a Fire Garden on Lily Pool Terrace, and the Field of Light, an animated light installation covering Cherry Esplanade. A series of new light-based artworks by local artists will be featured as well. Lightscape was launched at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London in 2014, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the show’s only U.S. East Coast venue.
Select dates, Nov. 19- Jan. 9, 2022 Tickets: $34/adults; $18/ages 3-12, free/age two and under Brooklyn Botanic Garden 150 Eastern Pkwy. Prospect Heights 718-632-7200
This walk-through light experience debuted in 2020, and it’s back and bigger for the 2021 holiday season. Glow is billed as “an outdoor color and light experience”, along a 1.5-mile winding path. Expect washes of brilliant color, thousands of dazzling LEDs, illuminated plant stories, and whimsical, picture-perfect installations that reflect the surrounding gardens and collections. Make it a double feature and check out the popular New York Botanic Garden Holiday Train Show while you’re there. (The garden offers a combo ticket.)
Does your neighborhood celebrate the holidays in a big way? If you’re searching for an extra festive spot to spend the day or the weekend, new data is out on the top Christmas towns in the U.S.A. Georgia residents are particularly in luck!
Helen, Georgia only has 430 residents but it’s a legit Bavarian town that goes all out for Christmas. Formerly a logging town, Helen takes advantage of its picturesque location by the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chattahoochee River for the holidays. In December the town hosts a Festival of Trees, Christkindlmarkt and a Lighting of the Village! The rest of the top 10 list from mydatingadviser:
Helen, Georgia
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Leavenworth, Washington
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Pine Mountain, Georgia
Ligonier, Pennsylvania
Jacksonville, Oregon
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
McAdenville, North Carolina
The site formulated the rankings by weighing Christmas activities, weather forecasts, transport, lodging and food. McAdenville, North Carolina offered the most seasonal activities and unsurprisingly Santa Rosa Beach, Florida has the best weather outlook (unless you prefer the white stuff). The most lodging options? The suburb of Valley Junction, Iowa, thanks to its proximity to the major city of Des Moines.
For a mega-watt evening, bundle up and flip the switch on some electric lighting displays around Atlanta. If you’re looking for an evening outing that will amaze the entire family, you’re in the right place. Read on to find the best spots around town to be dazzled.
IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival
Check out one of Atlanta's newest and most noteworthy holiday events at Zoo Atlanta. IllumiNights is a nighttime lantern wonderland celebrating the beauty of the natural world. Stroll the Zoo after dark to be inspired by more than 80 animal lanterns – some up to 20 feet tall – depicting some of Earth’s most charismatic creatures. Each lantern is made and hand-painted by Chinese artisans. Wildlife lights the night at the all-NEW IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival, opening in November 2021 and running through mid-January.
Nightly at 5:30; Adult (12+) $20.99-$24.99, Child (3-11) $17.99-$19.99, Child 2 & Under free
Choose from two new Worlds of Illumination drive-through light experiences for the ultimate holiday activity for all ages—from tots to grandparents, and everyone, in between. At the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton you'll have an Arctic Adventure, while at Six Flags White Water in Marietta you'll have a Rockin' Christmas. Both shows feature millions of colorful lights and animated displays synchronized to holiday music.
Attractions are about one mile in length and take approximately 25-30 minutes to drive through. World of Illumination’s shows will be open nightly, including holidays, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. All ticket prices are per vehicle, so guests can load up their cars with family and friends to enjoy the show. Show addresses are:
Atlanta Motor Speedway 1500 Tara Pl. Hampton, GA
and
Six Flags Whitewater 250 Cobb Pkwy. N Marietta, GA
Go on a magical walk through an amazing light show set to festive seasonal music. Unlike your typical drive-through light show, this one is a dazzling lighting extravaganza, and you can take a break along the way for cocktails, hot chocolate, and s'mores.
The million-light display at the Botanical Garden can't be beat. Family favorites include the orchestral orbs (glowing balls that blink in time with holiday classics), the tricked-out train display, and the fire pits for roasting s’mores (while mom and dad drink a cocktail from the cash adult bar). Be sure to bring a stroller for little legs, and don't miss the incredible laser light display in the orchid house. Guests can expect new twists, including a colorful Glowing Grove along the Flower Walk, oversized flowers leading to Ice Goddess and several lighted sculptures from the 2021 summer exhibition SUPERnatural: Glass Art by Jason Gamrath.
Details: November 13 to January 15 from 5 to 11 p.m., Ticket prices vary by peak dates and flexibility. Tickets available online or in person.
1345 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, Ga 404-876-5859 Online: atlantabg.org
With more than 15 displays and 8 million lights this year, the Fantasy in Lights drive-through experience is worth the hour and a half trek from Atlanta. Not sure your kiddos can bear a road trip where the destination is more time in the car? Opt to ride the Jolly Trolly (no car seats, but bring your coats - it’s open air!). Don’t forget to hit the Christmas Village before you head back home. Filled with ornaments, treats, and the Big Guy himself (photos available), the kids will love the chance to stretch their legs and marinate in the merriment.
Details: November 19 to January 3, from 6-9 p.m. Prices vary by peak night so check the website for accurate pricing, Free for ages 5 and under. To order tickets, click here or call 1.800.CALLAWAY (800.225.5292).
Holiday Lights are back at Brook Run Park. This year's theme is Hollywood Holidays. Starting December 1, enjoy sets from Dr. Seuss' The Grinch, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story at Brook Run Park. On Wednesday, December 1 catch the lighting ceremony from 5-8 p.m., complete with hot cocoa and character appearances. Lights turn on at 6 p.m.
ATL Holiday Lights is back with a bigger, better and longer lights display than ever before! This year’s show features hand-crafted light displays from everyone’s favorite holiday movies, a mini neighborhood featuring some local Atlanta establishments and more.
For more information and FAQs, click here. When you’re done walking or driving through the display, grab dinner at Atlantic Station and don’t forget to catch Celebration at the Station every hour from 5 – 9 p.m.
Peak Nights: $35 per car advance, $40 at the gate; Thursday Walking Nights: $15 per adult advance, $20 at the gate, Kids 15 and under FREE (plus sales tax and ticket fees)
Talk about some holiday spirit! This incredible light exhibit is a zero-profit event for Life University in Marietta that boasts the tallest Santa and his sleigh display in the Southeast. New displays are added yearly, and the entire arrangement is unique each year. Be sure to hit the petting zoo, train rides, pony rides, and visit with Santa before you leave, but you might want to wait until after driving-through the light exhibit to tell the littles. You won’t be able to keep them in the car, otherwise.
Details: November 26, 2015 to December 31, 2015 from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday to Sunday, $10 per car, Monday to Thursday, $5 per car, Train, pony rides, petting zoo, and Santa are additional, from $3 - $12.
1269 Barclay Circle Marietta, GA 770-426-2600 Online: life.edu
Another pedestrian option for families with littles who just don’t love the car, Stone Mountain decks the halls with millions of lights, and offers plenty of options for keeping the kiddos entertained from taking a ride on the train (decorated for the holidays and rockin’ some jolly tunes) to taking in a visit with Santa, Rudolph, or the Bumble. Get there early and take a ride on Atlanta's only snow-covered slope! Night owls in your family? Stick around for the flying Snow Angel and fireworks finale at 8:45 or 9:45 p.m., depending on the schedule. Dino lovers in the house? This is the light show for you. Stick around into the night to see the special Christmas Dino Glow Experience.
Details: Now to January 2nd (select dates). Purchase tickets here.
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 800-401-2407 Online: stonemountainpark.com
Experience all the warmth and charm of a Southern Family Christmas at Pettit Creek Farms! Take a lovely drive or hayride through more than a mile of beautiful Christmas lights. You only need to pay for one option, either the hayride or the drive thru. Experience a nativity (animals on Saturday) and meet the animals at the petting zoo. Getting chilly? Warm up by the fire and enjoy s’mores, funnel cakes, hot chocolate and more from a convenient concession stands.
What better way to welcome the new year than with a few LEGO sets? The brick builder has added a few new Lunar New Year sets that arrive just in time for the holiday.
Hitting shelves for the first time are the new Lunar New Year Ice Festival and Lunar New Year Traditions building sets. The two kits will join a host of others celebrating the holiday. Keep scrolling to see them all!
Chicago lights up around the holidays—literally. The Christmas season officially begins in the Windy City with The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse leading the charge as Grand Marshals. It is the Midwest, so dress in warm layers and take your family for an evening of festive city fun. Read on to learn more about this popular Chicago Christmas parade, including where families should line up for the best views, as well as where to stay and what to eat while downtown.
Schedule
The weekend's free festivities begin with a Lights Festival preview night on Fri., Nov. 19, 4 p.m. featuring a tree-lighting ceremony in The Wrigley Building Centennial Plaza (410 N. Michigan Ave.). Musical entertainment will be provided by Grammy-nominated singer, actress and Broadway star Deborah Cox and the Chicago Carolers.
On Sat., Nov. 20, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lights Festival Lane (Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave.) hosts a variety of family-friendly activities including Subaru's Share the Love pet adoption event in partnership with PAWS Chicago, a photo opp with Eli's Cheesecake Company's 30th anniversary Lights Festival cake and cheesecake, and live DJ entertainment. Families can capture a photo with Santa and get free, temporary holiday tattoos in the BMO Kid Zone. At 5:30 p.m., Grand Marshals Mickey and Minnie step off in their new 50th-anniversary attire, leading a magical tree-lighting parade between Oak St. and Wacker Dr. along The Magnificent Mile.
Highlights
Watch for new floats designed by CPS students in partnership with BMO Harris Bank and T-Mobile. This new partnership was created to bring a real-world, work-based STEAM design challenge to students.
Also new this year is the balloon debut of Bumble, the Abominable Snowman (from 1964 TV special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer), plus four high school marching bands from Ohio, and The Pack - Official Chicago Sky Drum Line.
Returning fan-favorites include Rudolph, the Petosky Steel Drum Band, The Cirque Experience/Wheel Jam, and more.
Celebrity appearances along the parade route include one of the most renowned groups of all time, Kool & The Gang who will perform Celebration, a fitting song for the occasion. The diverse entertainment lineup also includes the American hip hop/pop rap duo from Atlanta, Tag Team, plus Broadway artist Deborah Cox, and American Idol finalist and Illinois native, Grace Kinstler.
Additional performers appearing during the television broadcast-only will include the cast from Broadway in Chicago's upcoming production of Frozen, Chicago Theatre, Cirque: Twas the Night Before, Chicagoland dance teams and Teatro ZinZanni.
Santa Claus will soar down the route to officially signal the start of the holiday season before the grand conclusion featuring a spectacular fireworks show shining over the Chicago River.
Best Spots for Viewing
Birds-Eye View of The Magnificent Mile For crazy-cool aerial views, visit 360 CHICAGO Observatory and see The Mag Mile from 1,000 feet up!
Tree-Light Parade Viewing Remember that Michigan Ave. is typically less crowded on the east side of the street, especially at the north end of the procession route.
Fireworks Spectacular Viewing A stunning fireworks show is displayed over the Chicago River at the DuSable Bridge, so standing along Wacker Dr. or in Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Ave.) are prime viewing spots. Just remember, the DuSable Bridge closes as early as 3:30 p.m., so be sure to make your way across the bridge before that time.
How to View at Home
The parade will air on ABC 7 Chicago on Sun., Nov. 21 and Sat., Dec. 11, 6 p.m., and on Christmas Day at 8 a.m.
The nationally televised event will be hosted by ABC 7 Eyewitness News Anchors Alan Krashesky and Cheryl Burton on Sun. Nov. 21, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., on ABC 7 Chicago. Anchors Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini will capture the magic from the street.
Additionally, The Lights Festival can also be streamed on abc7chicago.com and will be available on-demand and on the ABC 7 Chicago app.
photo: Swissotel Chicago
Where to Stay
Many hotels near The Magnificent Mile offer discounts and special perks the weekend of the parade, and throughout the holiday and winter season. However, rooms tend to book quickly so make your plans well in advance. You’ll have more than 70 hotels to choose from on or near the Magnificent Mile, from luxury to affordable accommodations and from boutique to large-scale in size.
Hilton Hotels of Chicago, Kimpton Hotels, ACME Hotel, Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, The Peninsula Chicago, Best Western River North, Loews Hotel and Swissotel Chicago are all family-friendly, offering great deals or special perks and experiences.
Where to Eat
Gino's East
Of course, there will be a variety of drinks and noshes at Lights Festival Lane in Pioneer Court, including Eli's Cheesecake Company to satisfy the sweet tooths. Follow your nose to Garrett Popcorn Shops for some of their famous popcorn, Gino's East River North for classic deep dish pizza, Shanghai Terrace for an elevated Cantonese experience, Rosebud on Rush for Italian favorites, and Frontera Grill and Tanta for Latin cuisine.
We recommend taking public transportation, but if you're driving, book parking in advance through SpotHero. To reserve your spot, visit the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival SpotHero Parking Page and book a spot with rates up to 50% off drive-up.
Millennium Park Garage & Grant Park North Garage are closest to the south end of the Lights Festival parade route on Michigan Avenue. Pre-purchase parking for your lowest rate.
If you are looking for downtown parking near Pioneer Court for the Lights Festival parade, InterPark is a great option. Easy out after the end-of-night fireworks show.
Public Restrooms
Lights Festival Lane, Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Avenue
The Magnificant Mile Information Tent (401 N. Michigan Ave.) is available for questions and information about the Festival and will have complimentary hand warmers. Download the local Discovery Guide, with app partner GettinLocal, to receive real-time events updates concerning the parade.
COVID Protocols
Any guest attending any of the Lights Festival events will be asked to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status, throughout the Lights Festival footprint.
The books we have selected for October reading speak to the ‘scary’ season prevalent in many cultures, with tales of ghosts, graveyards and zombies, and references to folklore and superstitions embedded in both Halloween and Día de los Muertos. Scary stories have an enduring appeal, and nearly every fall, psychologists and folklore experts suggest new theories on just why that is so. “Life lessons lurk in ghost and monster tales,” says one headline. The “Snuggle Theory” suggests that our shared experience of facing fear-provoking events can lead us to feeling emotionally closer to one another. Leaving the analysis to other experts, we librarians know that most children love speculative fiction, whether sci-fi or supernatural, and what we have assembled here are some fine pieces of literature from that genre.
Our second goal in curating this list was to highlight October tales from a variety of cultures, providing two equally important perspectives, often characterized as “windows and mirrors.” Stories that reflect readers’ own culture and experience are mirrors; stories that portray someone else’s experience are windows. Mirrors help children build their identities. Windows broaden readers’ perspective and understanding of lives and situations different from their own. Our October selections describe folklore and festivals from around the world, with stories that have the potential to feel either familiar and reinforcing or novel and mind-expanding, offering readers the great gift of a broadened perspective.
Preschool Books
Click Clack Boo: A Tricky Treat by Doreen Cronin, Illustrated by Besty Lewin
Farmer Brown leaves a bowl of candy on the porch, locks up the house, puts up a “Do Not Disturb” sign, and prepares to sleep through the holiday, but his animals have other plans for the evening. As you read together, make up your own fun movements for the many onomatopoeias that are throughout the book. Enjoy the entire Click Clack series, with titles like, Click, Clack, Peep!, and Click, Clack, Quack to School!
Thanking the Moon: Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival by Grace Lin
An excellent introduction to this significant Chinese holiday, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. Families bring poems, picnics, and symbols in round shapes as they gather together at night to send up wishes to the moon. Much of it is told through illustrations that gives us insight into the importance behind the festival. This Newbery Honor, Caldecott Honor author/illustrator has many other wonderful books, such as Dim Sum for Everyone! and Fortune Cookie Fortunes.
Kindergarten Books
Dia de Los Muertos by Roseanne Greenfield Thong, Illustrated by Carles Ballesteros
A festive and colorful celebration of the Mexican and Latin American holiday. Told in simple verse, this book celebrates the joy of the holiday and the beliefs behind it. There are Mexican cultural references made throughout, including a cameo by artist Frida Kahlo. The author incorporates fantastic illustrations to easily explain the words in Spanish, but also has a glossary in the back that gives more information about the day’s history and traditions.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Published in 1963, with only 338 words, this Caldecott Medal winning author/illustrator tells the story of a young boy Max, who after dressing in his wolf costume, wreaks such havoc through his household that he is sent to bed without dinner. What happens next is a testament to the unbridled power of a child’s imagination. Sendak’s incredible artwork, and his magical story, undermine the fear of monsters without taking away the wonder.
Books for Grades One and Two
Leo a Ghost Story by Mac Barnett, Illustrated by Christian Robinson
Written by Caldecott Honor author Mac Barnett, and illustrated by Newbery winner Christian Robinson, this story comes from the point of view of Leo, a ghost who is not sure where he belongs. Chased out of his longtime home by a new family, he searches for a different life. But he finds that the city is scary and lonely, and that nobody sees him. Until he meets Jane and joins her imaginary kingdom, which includes a giant hamster, a green-scaled dragon, and Sir Mews, a loyal cat. Their friendship and Jane’s acceptance of a ghost as a friend makes this beautiful story extra special.
Books for Grades Three to Five
The Last Kids on Earth (series) by Max Brallier, Illustrated by Douglas Holgate
Jack Sullivan, thirteen-year-old, has been hiding out in his treehouse ever since the monsters took over. Most people were zombified or evacuated to the west. Jack must round up a team of friends to battle the monsters and prove once and for all that the “Last Kids” are average no longer! This graphic novel hybrid series is perfect for any reader looking for humor, fun illustrations, and zombies. It’s so popular that there is now a Netflix series based on it.
Middle School
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
In this Newbery Medal, Carnegie Medal, and Hugo Award winning novel, it takes a graveyard to raise an actual human being. The book traces the story of the young boy Nobody “Bod” Owens who is adopted and raised by the supernatural occupants of a graveyard after his family is murdered. His adventures include being kidnapped by ghouls, meeting a witch, going to school, and entering a strange tomb. It’s a mesmerizing tale about the joys of childhood, the gradual transition to adulthood, and the dichotomy of life and death.
Paolo Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia
In this Rick Riordan Presents series, author Tehlor Kay Mejia has crafted a wonderful novel that provides suspense and thrills, and plenty of Mexican-American folklore. Paola lives with her mother in an apartment not far from the Gila river. She chafes at her mother’s superstitions, especially the one about “La Llorona,” a Latin-American folklore ghost who roams rivers mourning the dead. Spooky, full of monsters, demon hounds, and puppet masters, this book tackles friendship, betrayal, and acceptance of who you are as the main character becomes a reluctant hero.
Keira Pride is the Head Librarian at Stratford School, the leading independent private school founded with a vision of creating a unique, multi-dimensional, educational foundation for children. As Stratford's Head Librarian, she manages the library services department across campuses throughout Northern and Southern California.
Who says you can’t go to the beach in the fall — even after school starts? These beaches and beach towns are — dare we say — better in the fall, with fewer crowds and seasonal festivals and events for families.
Gulf Shores, Ala. Sure, Alabama’s Gulf Shores are a classic summer destination. But they’re just as good — if not better — in the fall, when you can enjoy outdoor adventures in slightly cooler weather. Options include bike rides or Segway tours on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail; shopping and a Ferris wheel ride at The Wharf; and even helicopter tours! Lulu’s — one part play land, another part restaurant — is not to be missed either. (It’s owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister, Lucy!)
South Padre Island, Texas You just have to experience Sand Castle Days in South Padre Island. The free, four-day event, which takes place every October, features stunning sand sculptures — so stunning that you’ll wonder if they’re real! We assure you they are; in fact, you can watch artists from all over the world create their masterpieces before your eyes.
Other family highlights on South Padre Island include Sea Turtle Inc., a rehabilitation center for injured or sick turtles; zip-lining and horseback riding at South Padre Island Adventure Park; and Schlitterbahn Water Park, open year-round.
Nantucket, Mass. Head to Nantucket for the fall foliage; stay for the Cranberry Festival, which takes place each October. The event, of course, include delicious cranberry treats to sample, plus hayrides, sack races, face painting and a petting zoo. Other fall favorites on Nantucket include bike rides and family photos at Brant Point Lighthouse, located next to Children’s Beach.
Rehoboth Beach, Del. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a classic beach town that’s just as good in the fall as it is in the summer! Head straight for Funland, a family-owned amusement park with affordable games, rides and food on the boardwalk. The park is open through mid-September. Another reason to visit in the fall? The annual Sea Witch Festival. The three-day event, which takes place in late- October, features parades, pumpkin carving, free outdoor movies and more. Sign us up!
Lincoln City, Ore. Did you know that Lincoln City, Oregon, is the Kite Capital of the World? The city hosts two kite festivals annually, including one in the fall. The Fall Kite Festival includes kite-making workshops for kids and photo ops galore — all free of charge. Aside from the festival, Lincoln City is great for hikes and bike rides in the fall, with several local parks on offer.
Myrtle Beach, S.C. Summer continues into fall in Myrtle Beach — so much so that that city offers an Endless Summer Festival with free entertainment, carnival rides, a children’s play area and more! Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk amusements — including the SkyWheel — also remain open in the fall. Looking for some indoor fun? Broadway at the Beach, the Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Odditorium are at the ready.
Amanda Geronikos Norcross is the Features Editor for Family Vacation Critic -- TripAdvisor's family travel site. Amanda enjoys discovering new destinations and sharing her experiences with parents who are looking to plan the most memorable family vacations.
photo: Swissotel Chicago
