Your family is going to love these easy iron skillet recipes
When it comes to cooking, sometimes the cleanup (all those pots and pans!) makes us want to start scrolling through our favorite meal delivery apps instead. That’s why we’ve been searching for the best meals you can make in a cast iron skillet. This kitchen must-have heats everything evenly, can saute, sear, bake and broil and goes right from the stovetop to the oven—making it ideal for one-pot meals. From cast iron skillet steak to a Pizookie, we’ve got 16 iron skillet recipes you’ll want to put on repeat.
This cast iron skillet recipe for frittata might have bacon, but this breakfast meal is very vegetarian friendly, as you can add just about anything you like! Get the recipe over at Carlsbad Cravings.
Pizza is always a family favorite, and this deep dish cast iron skillet version is a cinch to make. One thing to note: This recipe takes almost two hours from start to finish, so be sure to plan this for a Friday night, weekend, or day you know you’ll have time to get it done. Grab the recipe over at A Taste of Madness.
This easy cast iron skillet recipe can be completed from start to finish in less than 30 minutes, plus it only has a handful of ingredients, which makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Get the recipe over at The Recipe Critic.
This one-pot meal has the feeling of enchiladas, but the mild flavor is ideal for picky eaters. This one takes over an hour, but it makes two pies, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers for another night. Get the recipe from Pinch of Yum.
Chicken thighs are one of the most versatile dinner ingredients—they can be made in dozens of ways. Using a cast iron skillet, this crispy version will cook quickly, and your cleanup will be a cinch. Get the recipe from Food Fanatic.
The hardest part about this recipe is making sure you get the pork marinated for at least 30 minutes (and up to a day) before tossing it in your cast iron skillet to brown and then popping it into the oven. Get the recipe at Kristine’s Kitchen Blog.
Soft and flavorful meatballs? Check. Stringy, gooey, yummy cheese? Check. Garlic toast for crunch? Check! These skillet meatballs check every box when it comes to comfort food. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.
Our mouths are watering at the sight of this chicken pot pie made in a cast iron skillet. It’s got the flaky crust and savory inside you know and love, but used store-bought shortcuts, which make it perfect for families. Get the recipe from Scrambled Chefs.
All you need to make this mahi mahi is a handful of pantry items and 15 minutes; it’s hard to say you don’t have time to make dinner with a cast iron skillet recipe like this one. Get the recipe over at A Taste of Madness.
Fajitas are always a crowd-pleasing meal, and a cast iron skillet version makes it an easy weeknight dinner option. We love the version from Isabel Eats because she offers up tips and tricks that’ll up your fajita game.
This recipe only has about five ingredients, takes about 15 minutes to make and is full of flavor. You’ll want to add this one to your recipe rotation for sure. Get the recipe from Brit + Co.
Sesame Beef and Broccoli
Pinch of Yum
One of the most popular items on a Chinese Food takeout menu, this cast iron skillet version from a Pinch of Yum tastes just as good (or better!). Full of protein and sweet garlicky-ginger flavor, you won’t even miss the stuff that comes in the little box.
Ahh, a giant cookie baked in a cast iron skillet. Pretty much our idea of heaven. A cross between a pizza and a cookie, you can make one big one or go with mini cast iron pans for individual treats. Get the recipes over at Boulder Locavore.
You cant go wrong with this scrumptious Skillet Mexican Brownie from Weelicious. Top this gooey brownie with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream!
The best holiday events taking place in San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond
Santa’s not the only one with a list this year—we’ve made our own nice list, full of our favorite family holiday activities around the Bay Area for the 2022. And while we may be missing snow and ice in the Bay Area (although you can get your fill of nearby snow play if you know where to look), we’re ready to celebrate with fun holiday events nearby, many of them free! This year, return to beloved traditions, like seeing a performance of The Velveteen Rabbit, or strolling down brightly-decorated Christmas Tree Lane with a hot chocolate in hand (see if your favorite hot chocolate spot made our list of best hot cocoa in the Bay Area). Or embrace a new holiday activity, like watching the lighted boat parade and fabulous fireworks display on Sausalito’s beautiful waterfront. From live musical productions and city-wide light shows, to cheerful holiday trains and outdoor ice skating, get ready to fill up your calendar with joy this holiday season.
Nov-Dec.: Remember Disney’s Fantasia, the spectacular animation that introduced a generation of kids to classical music? SF Symphony is producing a live version of the groundbreaking film in Nov., perfect for all ages. More Christmas-themed productions are scheduled for Dec., including Deck the Halls and The Colors of Christmas, performed by the SF Symphony Orchestra.Event details.
2. TheVelveteen Rabbit
Various Dates Nov. 26-Dec. 12: This beloved Bay Area holiday tradition returns with a tattered nursery animal becoming real in a show that brings the perfect amount of holiday cheer. Also available on-demand.Event details.
Nov. 9-Jan 31: This urban lights festival is in its 10th year and offers 62 eco-friendly displays in 17 neighborhoods, all accessible by public transportation within San Francisco's 49 square miles. Take the free guided tour to learn more about the artists that have brought these installations to life. Event details.
4. Presidio Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec. 2: Since 1991, the now 55-foot-tall Norfolk Island pine in the Presidio has glowed with lights starting on the first Friday evening in December. The tradition of tree lighting at the former US Army base began even earlier, in 1957, when families who lived and worked in the Presidio came by to light the tree and kick off the holiday season. Holiday Lights continued when the Presidio opened its gates to all as a national park 27 years ago. Event details.
5. Civic Center Tree Lighting
Dec. 7: The annual Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting event returns December 7, 4-7pm! Add this fun, free, family-friendly event to your holiday calendar! Featuring festive holiday performances, food, music, a toy giveaway for children, and Makers Village DIY activities for kids and adults, you won’t want to miss it! The event takes place across from an illuminated City Hall in Civic Center Plaza, a wonderful backdrop for a photo. The evening also includes “snow” flurries and Christmas VIPs such as elves, and the man-of-the-hour: Santa! Event details.
6. Hanukkah Pop-Up Party at Ghirardelli Square
Dec. 18: JCCSF’s Glowing Hanukkah Party returns to Ghirardelli Square this holiday season! This free, family-friendly event will see the lighting of candles, live (glowing!) music, Hanukkah crafts, games and tasty treats from the merchants at Ghirardelli Square. Event details.
7. Holiday Afternoon Tea
Dec. 17 & 18: Dollie & Me Tea at the Westin St. Francis at Union Square introduces a whimsical and magical holiday afternoon tea party for young children and their dolls.Event details.
Weekends Starting Nov. 19-Dec. 19: Journey to this one-of-a-kind immersive adventure into Victorian London—an elaborate holiday party with hundreds of costumed players performing and interacting with patrons in over 140,000 square feet of theatrically-lit music halls, pubs, dance floors, and festive shops. It's a twilight evening in Charles Dickens' London Town—a city of winding lanes filled with colorful characters from both literature and history. Enticing aromas of roasted chestnuts and hearty foods fill the air. Cries of street vendors hawking their wares ring out above the bustling crowd. Dozens of lamplit shops are filled to overflowing with handmade gifts. The Dickens Christmas Fair is a treasured Bay Area tradition since 1970 and a splendid way to celebrate the holidays. Event details.
9. Holidays at Filoli
Nov. 19-Jan. 8: The holidays at Filoli are simply magical with the gardens decked out in all their dazzling holiday splendor. Choose from a daytime or evening visit, or a themed night visit but either way, definitely make sure the kids visit Santa on the weekends! Pre-book before opening day for a discount, or visit during the week for cheaper admission. Event details.
10. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Drive-Through
Nov. 25-Dec. 25: This half a mile drive-through experience at the Fairgrounds with spectacular lighted giant Christmas trees, Santa, reindeer, snowmen, lighted tunnels and many more magical moments will delight all. Holiday Food Stands are available at the end of your drive-thru where you can purchase your favorites for the drive home. Event details.
11. Half Moon Bay’s Nights of Lights
Nov. 25 & Every Fri. until Dec. 16: This year’s Nights of Lights extends to four Fridays as downtown welcomes your family for holiday spirit, fun activities, music and more. Each Friday night is themed differently with a tree lighting, holiday market, parade and caroling. Event details.
12. IlluminOdyssey Lights
Nov. 4-Jan. 16: Be dazzled by this winter light experience which is included in admission and don’t forget to go play at the nearby Magical Bridges Playground after for the ultimate day trip out! Event details.
13. Gamble Garden’s Festival of Trees Family Night
Dec 2: Escape to a winter wonderland at Gamble Garden’s Festival of Trees for one night only where there will be arts & crafts for kids, free ice cream, holiday treats, Santa, the Grinch and more! Return the following day for the holiday market to get a head start on your shopping. Event details.
14. Winter Wonderland at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Nov. 24-Jan. 1: A winter wonderland at the beach is true California dreamin', right?! Rides, games, arcades, pedal karts, photos with Santa, s'mores and other holiday treats are all here under the bright illumination of festive lights—don't forget to take in the beach views! Event details.
Fri.-Sun. Starting Nov. 11 & Then Every Night Dec. 1-23: Walk through a mile-long journey and be dazzled by hundreds of larger-than-life animals lit up by lanterns in this unforgettable holiday lights display! Ride the gondola to the Land of Bugs, hop on the Express Train through Winter Wonderland and finish the evening with a visit to Santa! Event details.
16. Garden of D'Lights
Fri.-Sun. Nov. 25-Jan. 8: Experience the Ruth Bancroft Garden at Walnut Creek in a whole new way at this year’s Garden of d’Lights. With more lights and more lasers, this year’s Garden of d’Lights is set to be better than ever. Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they stroll through the Garden’s 3.5 acres of mature cacti, succulents and trees that are transformed into magical colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights. Event details.
Nov. 18-Dec. 28 (Weekends): With two locations to choose from (Sunol or Niles), your train-lover will be enthralled with this holiday train complete with refreshments, music and cheer aboard antique coaches and open cars that feature holiday lights and decorations. Editors note: This is already sold out for the 2022 season, but cancellations do happen, so keep checking the calendar for availability if you want to attend. Alternatively, check out our other suggestions for Bay Area holiday trains below. Event details.
Early Dec.-New Year: The best-lit neighborhood in the Bay is in Alameda, on the 3200 block of Thompson Ave. Every year, the street puts on a dazzling display that plugs directly into the spirit of the season. Affectionately known as Christmas Tree Lane, this has been an annual tradition since 1938. Event details.
Nov. 11-Jan. 8: The brand new ice rink at Vista Collina features a winter wonderland with special events and theme nights plus 100% chance of snow every night at 6 p.m. Keep minis warm by the toasty fire pits while beer and wine (obviously) keeps the adults happy in a brand new Napa holiday tradition! Event details.Related: More Bay Area Ice Rinks to Skate Your Days Away
20. Mill Valley Winterfest
Nov. 26-Dec. 16: Winterfest is back for 2022 with a giant rainbow slide, a jump house, games, and of course, Santa. The festivities kick off Friday, Nov. 26th with the Winterfest Holiday Hunt, a three-week, scavenger hunt-style contest at more than 30 businesses throughout Mill Valley. The contest centers around Blue Stars, which business owners will place in storefront windows or inside their businesses. Kids accompanied by a parent will take photos of blue stars of at least eight participating businesses and will be entered in a raffle for one of 20 $40 gift cards to participating businesses. The Holiday Hunt runs through Dec. 16. Event details.
21. Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks
Dec. 10: Watch a magical parade of lighted boats float by the Sausalito waterfront in this free annual event. Come for the festive flotilla, but stay for the fireworks, which start once all the boats have begun their journey. Parking can be tricky, so consider public transport, and get there early for a good spot. Event details.
Are you looking for a cool, fun adventure that involves some snow? Look no further than the best snow tubing spots near the Bay Area
It’s no secret that some of the best snow-filled days are spent sledding down a giant hill with family and friends. And the best part about snow tubing is that little-to-no-skill is required (just a healthy dose of bravery and willingness) so everyone in the family can participate. These must-go sledding spots near the Bay Area are not only fun, but make a great overnight stay to boot. So dust off those winter coats, stir up some hot cocoa, put on your leg warmers, and get ready to play in the snow (and then some) at the best snow tubing and sledding hills near the Bay Area.
While our editors love skiing and snowboarding at Palisades Tahoe, for kids who aren't quite convinced they want to get up on skies, you can go snow tubing at the SnoVentures Activity Zone located at the Palisades base area adjacent to the parking lot. Online reservations are recommended.
Good to Know: Ikon Pass holders receive free snow tubing every Thurs. And don't miss Disco Tubing where SnoVentures Activity Zone comes to life with colorful LED lights, lasers, and live DJs from 5-8 p.m.
Nestled on over 40 acres at the top of Echo Summit, Adventure Mountain is South Lake Tahoe's best spot for sledding, tubing, and snow fun. It is family owned and operated, offering up to 15 machine-groomed runs and plenty of space for snow play. Be sure to stop by the lodge for some hot cocoa by the fire. You may buy, rent or bring your own equipment. Helmets are encouraged.
Operating since 1920, Granlibakken's popular 300-foot sledding hill is a worthwhile day spent outdoors. Bring the kids for their first sledding experience or sign them up for skiing and snowboarding lessons. Additional fun: The s'more kits are a hit with the littles and can be enjoyed around the fire pits.
Cost: $25/weekday, $35/weekend, $45/night sledding; free for children under 3 Date: Opens Nov. 24
Outdoor fun awaits at this family-friendly sledding hill located adjacent to Lake Tahoe. Disc rental is included with your reservation, but no outside sleds are allowed. Reservations are required and limited walk-ups will be permitted.
Good to Know: In addition to the sledding hill, there's an outdoor ice skating rink and you can rent snowshoes here.
Cost: $5/resident, $15/non-resident Date: Ice rink opens Nov. 25; Sledding hill will open shortly after
Within four miles of Bear Valley, there are three parking locations where you can find slopes to get your snow tubing fix. Lake Alpine Sno-Park is the pick of the bunch with some long, fast runs. Aside from some non-flush toilets there aren’t many amenities so pack a lunch and some warming drinks. Purchase your Sno Park passes online.
Cost: Passes are $5/day or $25/season pass. Date: Hours and dates vary and are dependent on weather
South Side of Highway 4 at Spicer Rd. Bear Valley Online: gocalaveras.com
8. Tamarack Sno-Park
Tamarack Sno-Park is located between Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake, about a 3.5-hour drive from the Bay Area.
Good to Know: You need to purchase a parking permit ahead of time.
The Soda Spring Mountain Resort is home to Tube Town, a huge snow tubing area with up to 20 lanes and a 400-foot surface lift to get you back to the top! The resort also caters specifically to kids with an area called Planet Kids—a playground that contains snow tubing carousels, snow tubing lanes, ski and snowboard learning areas, along with snow volcanoes to climb.
A snow hill set in the Sierra Mountains provides a deluxe environment for tubing. Four small lanes are reserved for the littler kids to enjoy and gentle lifts guide you to the top of the hills. Tired of tubing? There are also separate play areas for snowman making, playing in snow castles, and a good old-fashioned snowball fight. Added Bonus: You can warm up and grab a bite to eat at the lodge featuring indoor and outdoor dining areas and a snack bar.
Visitors to the Northstar California Tubing Hill in North Lake Tahoe can enjoy an exciting ride down a 200-yard hill. Take the tow lift to the top of the hill and do it all again, either one at a time or in daisy chains with your family.
Cost: Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis only and are available for purchase at the Tickets & Season Pass Office in the Village at Northstar. Date: Opens Nov. 25
Tenaya’s sledding and snow tubing hill is set near the world-famous Yosemite National Park in a gorgeous forest setting. There are two sledding hills, a big one for all and a kiddie one for little—both are complimentary to guests of the resort. You can rent sledding discs for half day or a full day. Want more fun? Teyana also offers a guided snowshoe hike, ice skating, and archery sessions.
Cost: Tickets are available on first come, first served basis Date: Hours and dates vary and are dependent on weather
Lace up your skates! It’s time to go ice skating, Portland families
Unless you live in Canada or somewhere in the Midwest, ice skating comes once a year—during the holiday season. For many Portland families, heading out to a local ice skating rink is as much a winter tradition as watching the Christmas Ships or going snow tubing. Portland has no shortage of winter activities, and ice skating here is no different. Grab the family and your friends and venture out to one of these holiday-happy skating rinks to get your Christmas on. Don’t forget your Santa hat and festive scarf so you can snag a few photos while you’re at it.
If you have seen I, Tonya, or have followed the story of Tonya Harding, you are no stranger to the Lloyd Center Ice Rink. Set in the Lloyd Center mall, this ice rink has been a focal point of Portland holiday tradition for generations. Bring the family, regardless if you have skates or not. The Lloyd Center rink offers rentals for only $4, and a typical admission fee of $20 during the winter season. Head online for open skate sessions and get ready to carve your way around the rink!
Rock ‘n Skate at Lloyd Center
Want to pay less and have even more fun? Swing by on a Friday or Saturday between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. for the rink’s “Rock ‘n Skate,” featuring a live DJ. Cost only runs $18, including the skate rental. Don’t wait, add some fun to your calendar next weekend and hit the ice with your favorite people.
Dates: Fri. & Sat., 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Lloyd Center Mall 2201 Lloyd Center Portland Online:lloydice.com
Come out and skate where to pros skate—the Winterhawks Skating Center. You don’t need to be a professional ice hockey player to skate here; they share the ice. Get out of the city and take a trip over to Beaverton for some slippery fun, especially because the skate rental is free. Admission is $20, but if you have little ones who are 5 years and younger, don’t worry about paying—they skate for free. Be sure to stop by their concession stand for some snacks in between loops around the rink, or grab a hot cocoa for an added touch of the holiday feel.
Sherwood Ice Arena coins themselves as “the coolest place in town”, and they aren’t wrong. With a whole host of times for different kinds of sessions (freestyle, adult skills, pick-up hockey, etc.), this ice rink has something to offer for the whole family. Public skate sessions are available nearly every day, so grab the kids and hop in the car for a cute, cool, cozy outing on the ice.
Disco Skate
Just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean there isn’t time for Disco. Let the disco ball at the Sherwood Ice Arena light up your night when you lace up your skates every Friday night. Come get your groove on with friends and family, and experience a night to remember underneath the twinkling lights.
Maybe you heard about it through your ice hockey club or your neighborhood friends, or maybe you’re hearing about the Mountain View Ice Arena for the first time right now. Whichever it may be, after visiting Mountain View, you’re sure to know that it is a hit with friends and family alike. Perhaps it is because of their ice skating instructional session, offered seasonally, their birthday party packages, or their flexible schedule and affordable pricing. With a skate rental of only $3, filling your children’s afternoon with fun on the ice is sure to be an awesome holiday memory. Toss everyone in the car and head up north today.
14313 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd. Vancouver, WA Online:mtviewice.com
Paramount+ has hinted at a season-long arc involving one unsub, and just released a trailer
Were you crying into your pillow the day that Criminal Minds finally wrapped up its 15-season run? Well, wipe those tears because the show is coming back!
Paramount+ has announced that not only will the BAU be returning, but OG cast members are set to reprise their roles. And in even more important news, the series finally has a title: Criminal Minds: Evolution.
“For 15 seasons, Criminal Minds was at the forefront of cutting-edge scripted drama as it explored the psychology behind crime – thrillingly,” said Nicole Clemens, President, Paramount+ Original Scripted Series. “The series never stopped evolving during its run, and we are beyond excited to bring it back into a new era with new stories for a new generation of viewers at Paramount+. Erica, the whole cast and creative team are building a season full of new twists that we are sure will electrify audiences.”
Paramount+
Criminal Minds: Evolution Trailer
“All my years as a profiler I studied killers, but I never studied what a pandemic would do to them,” Joe Mantegna’s character says in the trailer. Oooh. We’re in.
Criminal Minds: Evolution Cast
Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez and Paget Brewster have already signed on to the series reboot, in addition to new cast members as well. One of those new members is Zach Gilford, from Friday Night Lights fame. According to Paramount+, “Gilford will play Elias Voit, an operations analyst for a global cyber-security firm who has a dark side and obsession with death.”
For now, both Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney, who played Spencer Reid and Matt Simmons, are not returning to the show. Paget Brewster told Looper that Gubler is stepping back after appearing in every single one of the original episodes of the final two seasons, and as a regular in the series’ 15 seasons. Daniel Henney is a regular on another series that will be shooting for several more years.
According to Paramount+, the series will launch with a story arc involving an unsub (unidentified subject) who has created a network of serial killers during the pandemic. The BAU is tasked with hunting each one down as the network launches, which is bound to push each character to their limits.
Paramount+
Criminal Minds: Evolution Release Date
Production on the show officially started on Aug. 21, and Paramount+ has finally announced when it will air. According to Deadline, the first two episodes will debut on Thur., Nov. 24—Thanksgiving Day. After that, weekly episodes will drop on Thursdays until the mid-season finale on Dec. 15. The second half of the season will return on Thur., Jan. 12 with the finale airing on Feb. 9.
The company has just released its Countdown to Christmas Lineup and the festivities start as early as Oct. 21! Not only that, get ready to settle in for a new batch of Miracles of Christmas Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Lineup, too!
Here’s the complete list of all the upcoming movie and their descriptions (thank you, Hallmark Channel!) so you can start planning all those festive movie nights.
Countdown to Christmas Lineup
(All premieres are at 8PM EST unless otherwise noted.)
The Christmas CEO, 2021 (Hallmark)
Friday, October 21: Noel Next Door
Starring: Natalie Hall (Charmed), Corey Sevier (Immortals)
A hard-working, single mom gets into a war of words with a neighbor who she feels is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood grouch just may steal her heart.
Saturday, October 22: We Wish You a Married Christmas
Starring: Marisol Nichols (Riverdale), Kristoffer Polaha (Jurassic World Dominion)
Becca and Robby are a married couple having a hard time connecting with each other as the holidays approach. Just before Christmas, they head to a cozy Vermont inn at the advice of their marriage coach so they can recharge. Their weekend away gets unexpectedly extended when a mishap puts their car out of commission and just may put them on the road to a very happily married Christmas.
Sunday, October 23: A Kismet Christmas
Starring: Sarah Ramos (Parenthood), Carlo Marks (Chesapeake Shores), Marilu Henner (Taxi)
Sarah is a children's book author who returns to her hometown, where she reconnects with her family and Travis, her teenage crush. She soon discovers that a long-held family legend might actually be true.
Friday, October 28: A Cozy Christmas Inn
Starring: Jodie Sweetin (Fuller House), David O'Donnell (In Search of Fellini)
Real estate exec Erika, travels to Alaska during Christmastime to acquire a bed and breakfast, only to discover that it's owned by her ex. While there, she finds herself falling in love with the town and quite possibly him.
Saturday, October 29: Jolly Good Christmas
Starring: Reshma Shetty (Blindspot), Will Kemp (Christmas Waltz)
David is an American architect who recently moved to London for a prime opportunity in a prestigious firm. With just three days before Christmas, he crosses paths with Anji, a professional shopper, who raises an eyebrow over his choice of a gift card for his girlfriend. David ultimately decides to hire Anji and, thanks to a series of unexpected events, finds himself on a wild adventure across Jolly Old London as Anji helps him search for the perfect present.
Sunday, October 30: Ghosts of Christmas Always
Starring: Kim Matula (LA to Vegas), Ian Harding (Pretty Little Liars), Beth Leavel (This Is Where I Leave You), Lori Tan Chinn (Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens), Reginald VelJohnson (Die Hard, Family Matters)
Katherine is a Ghost of Christmas Present and she must help one soul, Peter, rediscover his Christmas spirit. But this year has something unusual in store.
Friday, November 4, 2022: A Magical Christmas Village
Starring: Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives), Luke Macfarlane (Bros), Marlo Thomas (That Girl)
When Summer's mother Vivian moves in with her and her young daughter Chloe, her orderly existence is upended. Upon arrival, Vivian sets up an heirloom miniature Christmas village resembling their town, and tells Chloe it grants Christmas wishes. As Chloe begins setting up the figurines, real-life events seem to mimic the scenes she creates. With a little help from the magic of the Christmas village, the family will be brought closer together and just maybe, Summer will learn to open her heart to love again.
Saturday, November 5, 2022: Lights, Camera, Christmas!
Starring: Kimberley Sustad (Travelers), John Brotherton (Fuller House)
When a holiday rom-com movie shooting in her town needs a costume designer, Kerry, a local shop owner, steps into the role. While working on the movie, she rediscovers her passion for costume design and finds herself falling for Brad, the film's famous leading man.
Sunday, November 6, 2022: All Saints Christmas
Starring: Ledisi (Selma), Roger Cross (Murdoch Mysteries)
Lisette is a popular R&B singer who's getting ready to travel home to New Orleans for Christmas. When the media mistake a photo of her with her music producer ex as an engagement announcement, her family insists that he join her on the trip.
Friday, November 11, 2022: In Merry Measure
Starring:Patti Murin (Frozen, Chicago Med), Brendan Penny (Chesapeake Shores), Jennifer Robertson (Schitt's Creek)
When pop star Darcy returns home to spend Christmas with her sister and niece, she unexpectedly finds herself coaching the high school choir with her one time rival, Adam.
Starring: Rachel Skarsten (Batwoman), Dan Jeannotte (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds), Greta Scacchi (The Terror)
Claire is an MI5 agent who goes undercover as the royal nanny. She must overcome the challenges of her assignment, like resisting the charms of Prince Colin, while keeping the family safe at Christmas.
Sunday, November 13, 2022: Christmas at the Golden Dragon
Starring:Kara Wang (Good Trouble), Osric Chau (The Flash), Sara Canning (Nancy Drew), Antonio Cupo (Blood & Treasure), Barbara Niven (Chesapeake Shores)
When Romy and Rick's parents surprise them with the news that they will be closing the Chinese restaurant they have owned and operated for decades, the siblings each find themselves reevaluating their futures. Also impacted by the news are the landmark restaurant's loyal patrons and staff, who have all come to depend on the restaurant over the holidays.
Friday, November 18, 2022: Inventing the Christmas Prince
Starring: Tamera Mowry-Housley (The Santa Stakeout), Ronnie Rowe Jr. (The Porter)
Shelby is about to quit her job as a rocket engineer when her daughter becomes convinced that her Scrooge-like boss, Evan, is the Christmas Prince from a story Shelby invented years ago.
Saturday, November 19, 2022: Three Wise Men and a Baby
Starring: Paul Campbell (Turner & Hooch), Tyler Hynes (Letterkenny), Andrew Walker (Merry & Bright), Margaret Colin (Chicago Med)
Three brothers get the surprise of their lives when they are forced to work together to care for a baby over the holidays. As they slowly get the hang of things, they find themselves on unexpected journeys of self-discovery and begin to rebuild their relationships as brothers, as well as the damaged romantic and professional relationships in their respective lives…all while rediscovering their love of Christmas.
Sunday, November 20, 2022: When I Think of Christmas
Starring: Shenae Grimes-Beech (The Detail), Niall Matter (The Predator), Beth Broderick (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)
Sara Thompson returns to her hometown to help her mother move and is surprised to find her ex-boyfriend Josh Hartman is back home. The two had once planned a life in music together but Sara left to study law. The former flames slowly reconnect and try to heal wounds, both old and new. When Sara makes a surprising discovery, she and Josh forge a bold plan for the upcoming Christmas concert that will lead them all back to their musical roots and make this a holiday to remember.
Thursday, November 24, 2022: My Southern Family Christmas – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Jaicy Elliot (Grey's Anatomy), Bruce Campbell (Ash vs Evil Dead), Ryan Rottman (Guidance), Moira Kelly (The Cutting Edge,), Brian McNamara (Magnum P.I.)
Under the guise of a journalist, Campbell has a chance to get to know her biological father for the first time – without him ever knowing who she really is. As she spends time with him and his family, as well as with the town's record keeper, she realizes that families are messy, wonderful things. In the end, Campbell must decide if she's going to keep her identity a secret or reveal the truth to her father – a decision that will change their family Christmas forever.
Friday, November 25, 2022: #Xmas – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Clare Bowen (Nashville), Brant Daugherty (Pretty Little Liars)
When Jen gets the chance to enter a brand's design contest, she poses as a family influencer, enlisting the help of her best friend, Max, and her baby nephew. When her video is selected as a finalist, Jen is torn on whether to go on with her perfect "family" or reveal the truth.
Friday, November 25, 2022: A Royal Corgi Christmas– premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Hunter King (Life in Pieces), Jordan Renzo (The Spanish Princess)
Reluctant Crown Prince Edmond returns home just before Christmas in anticipation of being named successor to the throne. To ingratiate himself to his mother the Queen, he gifts her with "Mistletoe", a rambunctious Corgi in need of some serious training. After several doggy disasters, Edmond turns to Cecily, a canine behavior expert from America for help –but to his great surprise, Cecily demands that he take an active part in the daily dog training sessions. Sparks fly between them as the pair work together to get Mistletoe ready to present at the annual Christmas Ball. Just as the precious pup captures their hearts, they discover that love can grow in the most unexpected places, leading them to question what they really want.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: A Tale of Two Christmases – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Kat Barrell (Wynonna Earp), Chandler Massey (Days of our Lives), Evan Roderick (Arrow)
Thanks to some Christmas magic, Emma gets to experience two different Christmases – one where she stays in the city and celebrates with a new crush and his friends, and one where she returns home for all the traditions with her family…and Drew, a longtime friend who may have feelings for her. Emma's double holiday ultimately helps her discover what will truly make her happy in life as well as in love.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: Haul Out the Holly – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Lacey Chabert (The Wedding Veil), Wes Brown (Sweet Pecan Summer), Ellen Travolta (Charles in Charge), Peter Jacobson (House), Melissa Peterman (Reba), Stephen Tobolowsky (One Day at a Time, Spaceballs)
Emily arrives home, hoping to visit her parents, only to discover that they are leaving on a trip of their own. As she stays at their house for the holidays, their HOA is determined to get Emily to participate in the neighborhood's many Christmas festivities.
Hallmark
Sunday, November 27, 2022: A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Rachel Boston (SEAL Team), Victor Webster (Workin' Moms)
Annie Cooper has big shoes to fill when she takes over as CEO of her late grandmother's smalltown cookie company and is doing her best to help their struggling business get back on track. That task gets more daunting when her grandmother's secret recipe is stolen during the Christmas party. As Annie tries to crack the case and uncover the culprit she works with Sam, the owner of a local bakery, to recreate the recipe in the hope of saving the company and her job. As Annie and Sam bake batch after batch in pursuit of the perfect one, they begin to learn that their lives go together like milk and cookies.
Sunday, November 27, 2022: A Holiday Spectacular – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Ginna Claire Mason (Wicked), Derek Klena (Moulin Rouge! The Musical), Eve Plumb (The Brady Bunch), Ann-Margret (Bye Bye Birdie, The Kominsky Method) Featuring the Radio City Rockettes
In 1958, Maggie is an heiress from Philadelphia who puts her high-society wedding plans on hold in order to sneak up to New York City and make her secret dream come true: dancing live on stage in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
Friday, December 2, 2022: A Big Fat Family Christmas
Starring: Shannon Chan-Kent (Woke), Shannon Kook (The 100), Tia Carrere (Wayne's World), Jack Wagner (When Calls the Heart)
Liv is a photojournalist eager to make it on her own. To get a dream assignment – shooting the Chang family's annual holiday party for a cover story – she doesn't reveal that they are in fact, her family. When she finds herself growing close to Henry, the coworker covering the story with her, she wants to confide in him but doesn't want to jeopardize her big break.
Saturday, December 3, 2022: A Fabled Holiday
Starring: Brooke D'Orsay (Royal Pains), Ryan Paevey (General Hospital)
Talia and her childhood best friend Anderson unexpectedly reunite in a curiously familiar looking town full of Christmas spirit that restores its visitors when they need it most.
Sunday, December 4, 2022: Undercover Holiday
Starring: Noemi Gonzalez (Selena: The Series), Stephen Huszar (Tribal)
When returning home for the holidays, newly minted pop star Jaylen tells her protective family that Matt is her new beau, when in reality, he's her overzealous security guard.
Friday, December 9, 2022: The Most Colorful Time of the Year
Starring: Katrina Bowden (30 Rock), Christopher Russell (Day of the Dead)
Ryan is an elementary school teacher, who learns that he is colorblind. Michelle, an optometrist and mother of one of his students, helps bring color into his life in time for the holidays.
Saturday, December 10, 2022: Christmas Class Reunion
Starring: Aimee Teegarden (Friday Night Lights), Tanner Novlan (The Bold and the Beautiful)
High school classmates, who once dubbed themselves the "cursed class," reconnect at Christmas for their 15-year reunion. Over the course of their time reconnecting, the classmates challenge each other to remember who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
Sunday, December 11, 2022: The Holiday Sitter
Starring: Jonathan Bennett (The Christmas House, Mean Girls), George Krissa (Road Trip Romance), Chelsea Hobbs (Poisoned in Paradise: A Martha's Vineyard Mystery)
Sam is a workaholic bachelor who babysits his niece and nephew before the holidays when his sister and her husband have to go out of town. Completely out of his element, he recruits help from their handsome neighbor Jason and finds himself in an unexpected romance.
Friday, December 16, 2022: Holiday Heritage
Starring: Lyndie Greenwood (Sleepy Hollow), Brooks Darnell (The Young and the Restless), Holly Robinson Peete (Our Christmas Journey,)
Ella returns to her hometown to mend fences with her fractured family. With the help of Griffin, her ex-boyfriend, she encourages her family to celebrate Christmas and Kwanzaa and to heal their past wounds before it's too late.
Saturday, December 17, 2022: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas
A former actress trying to break into directing tests her skills with a town's annual Christmas Eve courtroom production in which the true authorship of the famous poem "A Visit from St. Nick" is debated.
Sunday, December 18, 2022: Hanukkah on Rye
Starring: Jeremy Jordan (Supergirl), Yael Grobglas (Jane the Virgin), Lisa Loeb
A matchmaker connects Molly and Jacob, but their new romance is put to the test when they realize that they are competing deli owners. Will a Hanukkah miracle keep them together?
Miracles of Christmas Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Lineup
(Premiere times are 10:00pm ET/PT)
A Christmas Treasure, 2021 (Hallmark)
Saturday, October 22: We Need a Little Christmas
Starring: Erica Durance (Supergirl), Patrick Sabongui (The Flash), Lynn Whitfield (Greenleaf)
Julie is adjusting to being a single mother to a grieving child while facing her first Christmas without her husband when she develops an unexpected friendship with her older neighbor Irene.
Saturday, October 29: Christmas Bedtime Stories
Starring: Erin Cahill (Every Time a Bell Rings), Steve Lund (Schitt's Creek), Charlie Weber ("How to Get Away with Murder)
When Danielle's husband goes missing in action during his deployment, she is left to raise her daughter on her own. Three years later, as she acclimates to life without him, she begins to tell her daughter bedtime stories of her father.
Saturday, November 5, 2022: A Maple Valley Christmas
Starring: Peyton List (Star Trek: Picard, Mad Men), Andrew Walker (Dying for Chocolate: A Curious Caterer Mystery)
Erica is a rancher who has spent her whole life working the family farm with her mother and sister. When Aaron arrives and disrupts her plans, she starts to question what it is she actually wants.
Saturday, November 12, 2022: Our Italian Christmas Memories
Starring: Sarah Power (Good Witch), Beau Bridges (The Fabulous Baker Boys)
The Colucci siblings, in an effort to jog the memory of their grandfather who is struggling with dementia, set out to recreate their late grandmother's legendary pasta sauce.
Saturday, November 19, 2022: Long Lost Christmas
Starring: Taylor Cole (Making Spirits Bright), Benjamin Ayres (Burden of Truth)
Hayley is an interior designer who plans to surprise her recently widowed mother Patricia with the perfect holiday present: the extended family she knows her mom yearns for.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas
Starring: Holland Roden (Mayans M.C.), Tyler Hynes (Letterkenny), Tenille Townes (The Lemonade Stand) From Executive Producer Blake Shelton
Four days before Christmas, Elizabeth Athens receives a voicemail from a number she doesn't recognize. In his message, a man she doesn't know makes one final plea to the love of his life for a second chance. This is the fifth installment of the popular movie franchise, based on Blake Shelton's song "Time for Me to Come Home."
Saturday, December 3, 2022: The Holiday Stocking
Starring: Nadine Ellis (Our Kind of People), B.J. Britt ( Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Karon Riley (The Black Hamptons), Tamala Jones ( Castle), Mykelti Williamson (Fences, Law & Order: Organized Crime)
In this Hallmark Mahogany presentation, RJ is a new angel, who is given the chance to address his one regret, that he didn't help his sisters reconcile while he was still alive. Returning to earth as a stranger, he gets each of them to revive The Holiday Stocking, their parent's old tradition to encourage charity at Christmas.
Saturday, December 10, 2022: The Gift of Peace
Starring: Nikki Deloach (Five More Minutes), Brennan Elliott (UnREAL)
Artist Traci is a once-devout Christian who has stopped believing in God after her husband tragically died despite her prayers. As her second Christmas without him approaches, she tries going to a support group for inspiration and comfort.
Saturday, December 17, 2022: Five More Minutes: Moments Like These
Starring: Ashley Williams (Sister Swap: Christmas in the City), Lucas Bryant (Haven)
The second holiday story inspired by Scotty McCreery's song "Five More Minutes," a young widow's Christmas wish for her son is answered in unexpected ways when she returns to their old home for the holidays.
When I was a little girl, if I didn’t like the food that was presented to me, my mother would make me sit at the table for hours on end. Sometimes my older sister would sneak into the kitchen and take bites of my dinner just so I wouldn’t have to sit all night and we could play.
This technique didn’t work to broaden my picky palate. It merely made me angry and resentful. If I didn’t finish my plate within whatever time frame my mom deemed appropriate (which ranged from 30 minutes to three hours), she took the plate away and sent me to bed hungry and mad. I swore to myself that if I ever had kids, I would never send them to bed hungry.
Then a few nights ago, I did that exact thing. I sent my kids to bed without supper. The decision was not an easy one, and many times during the evening, I questioned it. I even interrupted my spouse with a phone call while she was at an evening work event. Let me tell you exactly how things went down.
For the kids’ Friday night dinner, I prepared red beans and rice. I had never made this for them before, but many people have asked me for the recipe whenever I’ve brought it to share. Thinking I was clever and that it would be fun for the kids (my mistake), I decided to place tortilla chips throughout the beans and rice so that they looked like mountains sticking out. The kids were supposed to use the chips as “edible spoons.”
When I placed their bowls on the table, my 5-year-old son immediately and dramatically threw his head back, howling “Ooooooo noooooooo, this is soooo grosss!” distorting his face in all sorts of ways. His 4-year-old sister turned up her nose, made gagging noises, and reluctantly, with much prodding, tried three small bites before refusing the rest.
The rage rose from the tips of my toes to my chest and then, right before I verbally exploded… a moment of calm and peace washed over me. To be honest, I think I was “comfortably numb” after having expended so much energy during the week coming up with creative and tasty meals that were met with endless moans and complaints.
Walking away from the table, I went out back for a few moments to collect myself. I prefer to be proactive rather than reactive in these types of situations because, as a parent, if you draw a line in the sand, you’d better be ready to enforce it.
I thoughtfully came to the decision to send the children to bed without dinner for the following reasons:
The kids never miss meals/snacks and had eaten well at breakfast and lunch that day.
Both are physically healthy and do not have any health issues that would be negatively impacted by them missing a meal.
I want my children to appreciate the food they eat, where it comes from (respect for land and animals), respect for time put into preparing food, and the money it costs to buy. Teaching them these concepts doesn’t happen by saying, “Kids are starving all around the world and would love to eat what’s on your plate! Food costs money, and I’m sick of wasting it!”
Science has proven this approach doesn’t work because a child doesn’t have the cognitive capacity yet to comprehend that abstract concept. What a child can appreciate at the age of four or five is the feeling of hunger. Throughout the evening, I mentioned that many children around their neighborhood and the world experience feeling hungry every night. My children are old enough to appreciate and understand that. I also knew this would be a “one-off” event.
My children and I needed a “factory reset.” We had fallen into a negative pattern of behavior. I could feel my body tense up with anxiety as dinner time approached and my children asked, “What’s for dinner?” because I knew they would inevitably complain—and I would seethe. We all needed a “night off” from the norm. Sending them to bed without supper was definitely that for everyone. I felt like crap most of the night, even though I was comfortable with my decision.
After I came to my conclusion, I walked back into the kitchen, took their bowls away, and calmly told them they would not be getting dinner. They, of course, said “fine” and that they weren’t hungry anyway. I explained to them that refusing dinner is not only a waste of food but that it hurts their bodies when they don’t eat and my feelings when they say the food I present to them is “gross.”
The last few hours of the day I spent extra time with them as I knew they would not be at their “best.” When appropriate, I helped them identify their hunger and how it negatively impacted their moods (more short-tempered, grouchy). I also reiterated (in a kind manner, not a derogatory or demeaning way) how moving forward, I hoped they would have a more open mind to the food I presented at mealtime.
Do you know what happened the next day? They woke in fine and happy moods. They heartily ate their breakfast without complaint, were cheerful and chipper for lunch, and at dinner time, when I gave them steamed broccoli and carrots with homemade pork schnitzel (they have never had the pork prepared that way), they sat down and said, “thank you” and ate each and every bite.
*****Cue the exploding confetti and release the balloons! Parent win!*****
Holy moly, it worked! I have no clue how long it will last (we’re coming up to week two), and they still sometimes make a small fuss or face but quickly get themselves in check.
I can’t promise that if you do this with your children, the next day they will show more respect for your time and effort. What I can tell you is that sometimes parents have to do things that feel counterintuitive at the time, yet they’re the right thing to do.
In this day and age, many parents are afraid to set a boundary/discipline their child(ren) for fear of being accused of abuse/neglect. I completely respect that and understand where it comes from. Once upon a time, children were viewed as property without feelings/needs/etc and were treated very poorly. Even with the knowledge that we have today, children are still being abused and seen as “less than,” but we now have laws in place to try and protect them.
It took me four days to convince myself to write this article. Why? Because I am human and fear judgment and ridicule. Someone out there may not approve of my decision to send a child to bed without dinner and might see it as a form of abuse.
Nevertheless, I chose to push my fears aside and write the damn article anyway because I know there are thousands of parents out there struggling to get their children to eat a little bit healthier. It’s my hope that this story gives you the courage to set firmer limits around food.
Obviously, common sense needs to factor into a decision like this. If you plan to do the same, make sure you are calm, collected, and ready to cope with any backlash that comes your way in a loving manner. We all know what it’s like to feel hungry and irritable.
Sending the kids to bed without dinner will not become a family tradition. It is my hope that this “one-off” incident is enough to help them recognize the importance of eating and to develop empathy for others who aren’t as fortunate as they are.
I am a 42-year-old biological mother of two young children in a same-sex relationship, a clinical psychologist with a specialty in neuropsychological assessment, a music therapist, a trainer of therapy dogs and ex-communicated Mormon from Indiana with a wicked sense of humor.
Olivia Newton-John has died at 73, after a long battle with cancer
Olivia Newton-John died Monday morning at her ranch in Southern California, surrounded by family and friends. Her husband, John Easterling, shared the sad news on Facebook, where he spoke of her 30 year commitment to sharing her journey with breast cancer.
“Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer,” he wrote. “Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund.”
She became a superstar after starring in Grease opposite John Travolta in 1978, but she was also a musical sensation in the ’70s and ’80s. She sold over 100 million records in her career.
Olivia Newton-John has died.
It feels like I’m writing these sentences more and more often. I’m in my late forties, and the actors and actresses I sat starry-eyed, staring at in front of the TV as a kid are getting older—just like I am. I was five when Grease was released in 1978. It wasn’t long after its theatrical release that the movie started playing, yearly, on TV, in 1981. I’m not sure I can adequately express the excitement we felt, waiting for it to come on.
I try to paint a picture for my kids of what it was like growing up and not having access to instant entertainment at your fingertips. They are so used to being able to grab their iPads and search for their favorite movies. They watch a movie with a new star that they like and they’re able to instantly search that star, and watch anything that exists that they may have already filmed. It wasn’t like that for those of us who grew up in the 70’s and 80’s. We didn’t have a giant pool of actors and actresses to relate to. We had a small pool. We had Friday night movies on the G Channel (on the West Coast). We had yearly ABC movie nights. We had Grease. We had The Wiz. We had The Wizard of Oz. We had The Sound of Music. We had Olivia Newton-John.
defotoberg/Shutterstock
We had Olivia Newton-John in her fantastic tight black pants, and big gold hoops. We had Sandy, with her black off the shoulder shirt and the cigarette we knew she didn’t know how to smoke. We had Olivia Newton-John. And honestly, it hurts to let her go.
Newton-John was 29 when she was cast to star opposite John Travolta in Grease. According to The Hollywood Reporter, as director Allan Carr tried to convince her to take the part, he promised to make her character Australian—which John Travolta also lobbied for, to support her. Travolta left a beautiful tribute to his co-star and friend today.
“My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible,” he wrote. “I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!”
If you were born in the ’70s or ’80s, you may feel like a big chunk of your childhood has died today.
Seattle is home to some of the finest museums in the country. But you know what makes them even better? When you can find free or cheap museum days. With summer days in full swing, now’s a great time to get the kids out of the house and save money, too. From Free First Thursdays and Third Thursdays to special deals and discounts, we’ve compiled a list of affordable (read: free or cheap) museum days you’ll want to put on your calendar. Read on to make your next playdate plan at one of our favorite local museums.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum (Bellevue) Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Active military members (with ID) receive 20 percent off of general admission from Armed Forces Day to Memorial Day. Admission is always free for Gold Star military families.
Within this awesome museum you'll find a water gallery with a toddler specific splash zone, an "On the Go" gallery with a big rig semi-truck cab, a "Sticks and Stones" outdoor gallery, a story tree gallery, a two-story climber, an art studio and a special place for kids up to age 3 to explore, complete with a quiet nursing area. We apologize if you have to drag your kids away at closing time, and remember timed ticket entry is still SOP here.
Seattle Children's Museum (Seattle) Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Show your qualifying military ID for a $2 discount. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC.
Located in the shadow of the Space Needle, the Seattle Children's Museum boasts more than 18,000 square feet of play space for kids ages 10 months to 10 years. There you can find plenty of hands-on exhibits to explore as well as daily educational programs, story times and art activities that are free with the cost of admission.
Kids Discovery Museum (Bainbridge Island) Free first Friday Art Walk from 3-7 p.m. Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC or foster families. KiDiMu also offers a special Museums for All membership for just $30 annually.
This small but mighty kids’ museum rocks a giant Lite Brite, Mission to Moon, Rigamajig, Nature Microscope, and all the around-the-town exhibits kids can't seem to get enough of like a grocery store, bank and and vet clinic. Plus it's fun to get there by taking a ferry from Seattle. Downtown Bainbridge is also just steps away, as well as the always free Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, so you can easily make a day of it.
Imagine Children’s Museum (Everett) Editor's note: This museum is closed for renovations through August. Keep an eye on the website for the reopening date.
Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Receive free admission every third Friday of the month from 5:30-9 p.m. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the EBT program. Military families receive free admission on various dates throughout the year.
Come to the Imagine Children's Museum where your kids can find fun activities like Art Rocks, i-engineers and Cartoon Corner to keep them busy. If that's not enough, send them exploring throughout Imagine's two floors that come complete with a rooftop playground and a treehouse. It's totally tops.
Hands On Children’s Museum (Olympia) Children ages 17 months and younger always get in free. Pay just $1 to play on the first Friday night of the month. The Museums for All rate allows the first two guests in free (pay $2 for each additional guest) with proof of participation in the EBT program. For qualifying families who want the benefits of Annual Membership, Hands On offers an Access Membership Program for $25.
With more than 150 hands-on exhibits spread over two floors and an Outdoor Discovery Center, you can’t really go wrong at this Olympia museum. Little museum-goers might never want to leave once they spot the Built It! center, Fabulous Forest and the Tides to Trees Climber. And if that's the case, here's how to make a weekend out of it in Olympia.
Children’s Museum of Tacoma Take advantage of pay-as-you-will admission that's always offered when the museum is open to the public (10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 1:30-4 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays.) Member-only hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m on Mondays and from from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturdays.
In a space along Tacoma's museum district, this bright and cheery museum boasts a large (and very clean) water table, a fantastically fun art studio, a climbable vessel reminiscent of an airplane-treehouse-fort with a total steam punch vibe and a new arty climber that's challenging for older kids. Check out their low-sensory hours on Fridays, from 1:30-4 p.m. for a quieter playtime if you've got kids with sensory sensitivities.
Burke Museum (University of Washington) 3 & under are always free. Free every first Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Do you dig fossils? Then you've gotta check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. First of all, you'll see scientists at work—they're actually on display. Little white boards posted at the large windows will tell you what they are up to and in same cases, you'll be invited inside. Plus family spaces allow your Littles to climb, crawl, look, touch and ultimately learn as they explore. Kids can climb on an orca whale, investigate a large log, explore a tide pool, board a Northwest Indian canoe, check out a research tent and dress up like animals and see how well they blend in at the "camouflage corner." When hunger strikes, head to Off the Rez for handmade frybread, Indian tacos, wild rice bowls, salads and espresso beverages.
The Museum of History and Industry - MOHAI (South Lake Union) 14 & under are always free with a paying adult; maximum 5 youth admitted per adult. Free every first Thursday from 5-8 p.m.
Bring the kids to South Lake Union to learn about the area's history at MOHAI where all the permanent exhibits are free on First Thursdays. Grab an Exploration Pack (designed for kids ages 3-7) filled with activities, puzzles, books and more or an Innovation Pack (designed for kids ages 7-10), filled with gear, to help kids use creative thinking as they explore the museum. Both are free with adult museum admission, so this means they’re totally free for kids. Don't forget to hit up the Kid-Struction Zone when you visit. It's tops with toddlers. Psst... the free Lake Union Photo Scavenger Hunt is happening this month too.
Klondike Gold Rush Museum (Pioneer Square) Always free for everyone. Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. During the summer, from mid-June through Labor Day, the Visitor Center opens one hour earlier, at 9 a.m.
If you have a family of history buffs, you don’t want to miss this little nugget (see what we did there?) of a museum located in Pioneer Square and close to the International District and its plethora of restaurants. Not too crowded, with Park Rangers ready to answer your questions—this is a fun little museum run by the National Parks (who knew?) right in our backyard.
Seattle Art Museum (Downtown Seattle) Children ages 14 and younger always get in free. The Chase Open Studio and Ann P. Wyckoff Education Resource Center are always free (Editor's note: these spaces remain closed). Free first Thursdays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
If your kid has a complete art library of their own, The Seattle Art Museum is where you'll want to take them. The museum hosts a variety of family events, although many remain paused due to Covid. Outdoor programs like Summer at SAM give families the opportunity to explore art and nature together. But we know your kids will love the Alberto Giacometti: Toward the Ultimate Figure on display through October.
Henry Art Gallery (University of Washington) Free first Thursdays are from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Every Sunday is free from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. UW students, faculty and staff along with students and kids are always free.
The Henry stokes imagination by introducing kids and families to contemporary art and culture through interactive art experiences. Inspired by current exhibitions, the museum offers family programs that are especially designed for adults and children to consider new ways of thinking while learning and creating together.
Bellevue Arts Museum Children ages 6 and younger always get in free. Students get in free each second Wednesday of the month using the online coupon.
The Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) helps to engage hands and minds alike with their kids & family programs that include free family days, workshops and more. Imagination Stations are located throughout the museum, allowing you to get hands-on with your own arty ideas.
Seattle Asian Art Museum (Capitol Hill) Children ages 14 and younger are always free. Free last Fridays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The recently-reimagined Seattle Asian Art Museum groups art by theme, rather than country, and offers guests expanded exhibit areas, education spots and a lovely walkway that connects this impressive Art Deco building to Volunteer Park's many other amenities. Don't miss the public programs at its Garden Center, which shares a range of artistic expression through performances, films and events with visual artists.
This awesome museum is located on beautiful Bainbridge Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle and a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal. The museum offers group visits, lectures and panel discussions as well as a film series, publications and hands-on art experiences for a range of ages and audiences. BIMA has a small but growing Permanent Art Collection including various media such as painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass, wood, artist’s books, fiber and jewelry art.
Olympic Sculpture Park (Seattle Waterfront) Always free for everyone each day. Park is open 30 minutes prior to sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. PACCAR Pavilion is open each day from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. during spring and summer.
If your kids get squirrely in museums, take them to Seattle’s coolest outdoor art exhibit. OSP is home to awesome sculptures, giant art and interactive beauty. It's also a great way to get your tykes appreciating art without needing to shush them every two minutes. Plus, the unparalleled view (and lots of room to spread out a picnic blanket) is reason in itself to plan a visit.
Frye Art Museum (First Hill) Always free for everyone, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Check out the Museum's Human Nature, Animal Culture: Selections from the Frye Art Museum Collection, which examines how we use animals to nourish our bodies, carry our belongings and become our companions. While we look at science for solutions to address the climate change that impacts them, we also turn to art to understand our past, present and future relationships with our fellow creatures.
National Nordic Museum (Ballard) Children ages 4 and younger always get in free. Free First Thursday of the month from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
If there’s a Viking in your family, check out the Museum's Nordic Journeys exhibit which is a hands-on, kid-friendly display about the immigration story from the "old country” to the United States, then Seattle and to Ballard.
Northwest African American Museum (Southeast Seattle) (Editor's note: Until further notice, the museum is operating virtually and in pop-ups only until it reopens its onsite operations.) Children ages 3 younger always get in free. Free every first Thursday of the month from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Offers admission by donation days (often coincides with our large community events like MLK Day).
The exhibits and programs at this museum feature the visual arts, music, crafts, literature and history of African Americans in the Northwest. Together with the community, the museum presents and preserves the connections between the Pacific Northwest and people of African descent and investigates and celebrates Black experiences in America. Be sure to keep an eye on their events calendar for special events and programs throughout the year for families, such as interactive storytime and the Knowledge is Power Book Giveaways.
Visit this museum to connect with the dynamic history, culture and art of Asian Americans, native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders through storytelling and experiences meant to advance racial and social equity. Youth ages 10 to 14 years old should check out the free art program Teensway, which explores heritage and community through various art techniques led by teaching artists and museum staff. And keep an eye on the events calendar for upcoming family-friendly events.
Insider tip: Most of the kids' exhibits feature interactive elements such as videos, sounds and games, sure to please your whole brood.
MoPOP is an ever-changing museum offering insights on everything from music, video games, movies, sports and more. While there is something for everyone here, we recommend MoPOP for families with older kids who can appreciate Sci-fi wonders and Fantasy worlds. Just about every kid (and parent who wished that they had become a rock star) will love the Sound Lab where they can actually learn to play different band instruments in a matter of minutes. We think everyone will love the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit that just opened in late June.
The Museum of Flight (Boeing Field) Children ages 4 and younger always get in free. Receive free admission the first Thursday of each month from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Discounted tickets are available for active military and veterans, Boeing employees and AAA members.
Check out the Museum's Apollo 17 Lunar Module Ascent Stage Mock-up exhibit where you can land the Apollo lunar module, or walk through a full-sized replica of the International Space Station’s Destiny Research Lab. Weekend Family Workshops offer hands-on experiences exploring science, engineering and aerospace topics for the whole family on Saturdays and Sundays. The Museum of Flight Tower at Boeing Field is always a hit with future airplane pilots, and hearing the King County International Airport air traffic controllers in real-time is pretty darn awesome, too. But the current draw at this area favorite has got to be the Walt Disney Studios & WWII retrospective that will delight both parents and kids.
The Center for Wooden Boats (South Lake Union & Camano Island) Always free for everyone. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Believing that everyone should have access to maritime heritage, The Center for Wooden Boats' Floating Boathouse Gallery (Seattle) highlights four unique and historic wooden boat designs that enjoy a permanent place in the CWB collection. Toy Boat Building classes for kids and adults are offered at the Cama Beach location each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. And we're all hoping the tugboat storytime and pond boat rentals return to Seattle soon. While we wait, consider renting a free pea pod boat with the kids.
Northwest Railway Museum (Snoqualmie) The Depot and grounds are always free. Railway History Campus is $10/adult, $5/child, ages 2 to 12.
In 1981, the Northwest Railway Museum rehabilitated and restored the Snoqualmie Depot back to its 1890s appearance giving kids a better idea on what travel was like for their grandparents. If you want to go for a ride, Scenic Train Rides take place during special events in July, October and December and on weekends April through October. Moms, dads and grandparents can take advantage of free train rides (with a paying kid) on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Grandparent's Day weekends. View the special events calendar online.
Kids love to watch the hydros during Seafair, but did you know they can visit them anytime? Climb into an actual hydro or just check out all the cool boats and memorabilia on display at The Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum, our nation's only public museum dedicated solely to powerboat racing.
Whether you’re looking for an explosive fireworks display or a bit of easy-peasy patriotism, Atlanta’s serving up some seriously great options for family-friendly Fourth of July festivities this year. We love the fireworks displays for older kids and don’t forget to whip up some red, white and blue food for your festivities.
Celebrate the United States of America with America’s team! This Fourth of July Weekend, catch an epic firework display after the Braves game on Monday night. The Braves will take on the Cardinals to celebrate America’s birthday.
Light up the skies over Roswell again on July 4 at Roswell Area Park for live music, entertainment, and food trucks. Bring your chairs and blankets to spread out at one of several fireworks viewing areas throughout the park. Fireworks will start at sunset.
The Fourth of July will go off with a bang as the Sandy Springs Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration lights the sky. The celebration will take place on Monday, July 4, 2022. Electric Avenue, called America’s Greatest 80s Tribute Band, will rock the City Green with the MTV Experience, beginning at 7:30 pm and fireworks lighting the night sky starting at 9:30 pm.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race returns on July 4, 2022. The 53rd edition of the annual 10-kilometer race takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. Runners and walkers worldwide will also have the opportunity to participate in the race virtually. If you’re not participating, don’t miss the chance to cheer on the racers. You’re sure to see costumes, lots of crowd participation, and plenty of patriotism.
The city of Marietta’s Fourth in the Park celebration begins Monday, July 4, at 10 am. It includes a parade, free live concerts, museum tours, an arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and a fireworks finale (around 9:30 pm).
The City of Decatur will hold its annual fireworks display, with a few modifications, on Monday, July 4, 2022. The fireworks display will begin at dark, approximately 9 pm, and lasts about 20 minutes. They will launch from the top of the Dekalb Courthouse Parking Deck. The streets in the fallout zone will be closed to pedestrians and traffic.
The City of Kennesaw’s pre-Independence Day celebration of freedom, music, and fireworks is one of the biggest and best in North Georgia, with two stages of live music, festive street entertainment, food vendors, and plenty of activities for the kids. And, of course, you don’t want to miss the kid’s parade at noon. Expect a brilliant fireworks finale at 9:30 pm.
The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at Callaway’s annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach games, live music, and their annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Overnight packages are available, as are day trip admission options.
Get ready to enjoy a day full of award-winning adventure with great family attractions and live entertainment, then stay into the evening to experience the Lasershow Spectacular presented by the Georgia Office of Highway Safety, followed by the same patriotic fireworks finale each night of the celebration, running July 1-5, 2022. Reservations for the Lasershow Spectacular are required.
The Fourth of July in Cartersville kicks off on July 4 with a parade at 9 am and ends with fireworks at 9 pm. Leading up to the fireworks, families can get in on the festivities at Dellinger Park starting at 3 pm. The festivities include children’s activities, concerts and arts and crafts.
Celebrate our great nation with your family under the stars watching a brilliant display of fireworks at dusk at Wills Park. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic and spend time together outdoors. Fireworks will begin at dusk.
