The perfect family vacation isn’t just a walk in the park with adventurous kids in the mix—not unless that park has a zipline and a waterslide. Lucky for you, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has all that and more. With plenty of family adventures for people big and small—an epic water park to interactive pirate escapades to dolphin excursions—here are some of our top must-dos for a family vacation they’ll never forget.
1. A Day in the (Water) Park
As promised, there is an incredible water park with something for kids of all ages. Myrtle Waves Water Park features over 30 slides, including speed and tube slides for the older adrenaline seekers as well as a children's play area. Head to the lazy river for a relaxing ride or test your hand at riding a wave with the FlowRider®—a fun, safe platform that manipulates the experience of surfing.
2. The Sky's the Limit
If you're up for seeing the beach from a different point of view, check out Express Watersports for a parasailing adventure and stand-up paddleboarding, or visit Downwind Sails for some action-packed jet skiing. Head to the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel for an entirely different perspective of the 1.2-mile attraction-packed Boardwalk.
3. A Pirate's Life
Visit Murrells Inlet, once the hideout of Blackbeard himself. After walking around the beautiful MarshWalk, grab a festive lunch at piratey Drunken Jacks. Then head out on the kid-friendly Pirate Adventures of Myrtle Beach, where they'll start by getting outfitted like a pirate before hopping on board the ship for interactive stories and a battle against smelly Pirate Pete. Keep the pirate party going right through dinnertime by booking a spot for dinner and a swashbuckling show at Pirates Voyage (bonus win: it's owned by Dolly Parton!).
4. The Sporting Life
Sports fans should be sure to catch a minor league baseball game with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. There are fireworks every Friday night, and kids 12 and under can run the bases. Also, check out the events calendar at the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center, a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports facility with eight basketball and 16 volleyball courts. They host local youth basketball games, dance competitions, camps, and more.
5. Endless Animal Adventures
Bird watchers won't want to miss Huntington Beach State Park, where over 350 species of birds descend. Depending on the season, you can spot herons, egrets, rails, wood storks, shorebirds, and bald eagles. Or head to Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach and visit Alligator Adventure for gators, snakes, kangaroos, wolves, and crocodiles. Don't forget to go dolphin spotting with one of the many dolphin excursions in the area, like the Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Cruise. Huntington Beach State Park as an amazing place for birdwatching. Rangers report they see over 350 species of birds in the park throughout the year, and they have a great interpretive center where you can learn about all kinds of native wildlife.
6. STEM-Themed Explorations
For some adventures with an educational twist, curious kids will want to explore WonderWorks, where over 100 totally interactive exhibits for all ages, from weather science to a virtual roller coaster to a ropes course and laser tag. The EdVenture Children's Museum for some STEM action that introduces kids to aviation and astronomy.
7. Hop 'Til They Drop
Still not tired? Burn off all that energy and take a break from the sunshine by bouncing at the Rockin' Jump Myrtle Beach Trampoline Park, located close to downtown Myrtle Beach. Little ones can go for toddler time every Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Big Air Trampoline Park. Race around the course at Broadway Grand Prix, where you'll also find an arcade and mini-golf. Or head to 810 Billiards and Bowling for bowling, billiards, foosball, darts, board games, and a full menu.
Even if you missed the Mermaid Parade on June 18, there are still plenty of reasons to head to the seaside fun spot Coney Island. In addition to the Cyclone celebrating a landmark birthday (95!), you’ll also find new rides, new eats, new art — and all the old sun and sand favorites, too. Here’s what’s happening on, and along, the boardwalk. For more things to do with the kids, check out our Summer 2022 Bucket List, our favorite playgrounds with sprinklers and where to enjoy a meal outside with the kids.
Mimi O’Connor
Hit the Beach
Two centuries of beachgoers can’t be wrong: the surf and sand are the real reason to head out here. If you’re heading here on a weekend, it pays to know that the area in front of Luna Park and the spot around the Brighton Beach train station tend to be the most crowded. If you want a little wiggle room, aim for the stretch of sand between the two.
Food: There are no concessions in the immediate area so pack a picnic or be prepared to flag down the vendors who will come by selling cotton candy, ice cream, cocktails, and more. (Also: if you’ve got a beach umbrella, bring it.) Beaches are open with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bathrooms: If you forgot the sunscreen, look for free sunscreen stations scattered around the boardwalk before you head out onto the sand. There are plenty of accessible bathrooms available but plan ahead: They’re all located by the boardwalk, which means you’ll likely be trekking back across the sand to get to them. You’ll also be able to wash off the sand at one of the outdoor sprinkler/shower stations — these tend to have a line but it goes quickly and people are generally courteous of each others’ time.
Coney Island: Take the D, Q, N or F train to Stillwell Avenue
Brighton Beach: Take the B or Q to Brighton Beach
Bike the Boardwalk
If you and the kids are early risers, then gear up and bring your bikes to the beach. Riding bicycles on the boardwalk is permitted from 6 to 10 a.m. daily. The boardwalk is a wide, flat, and mostly even surface (with some renovated areas that make for a super smooth ride) that’s a good option for little bikers. Keep in mind that it doesn’t loop, so you’ll either ride to a certain point and back or exit at any of the ramps at intervals and catch the train from there. I don’t recommend going further than Luna Park, as that marks the last train station, making getting back more difficult if your budding bikers get tired feet.
Monkey Around in the Playgrounds
You might be going to the beach for the sun and surf, but what child can resist a good playground? The sprawling Brighton Playground on Brighton 2nd is a popular option with kids of all ages for its large variety of playground equipment. The playground’s been there since the 1950s but renovations in the late 1990s added handicap-accessible areas and structures so kids of all abilities can enjoy the playground, as well. For something fun to do, send your kids on a scavenger hunt of all the marine life and Coney Island motifs that adorn the playground structures, fences and even ground.
Besides this large playground, there are also two little playgrounds right on the sand, one near Luna Park and one near the Brighton Beach train station. These don’t have much shade so be careful of little feet getting too hot on steamy summer days.
For a more active playtime, there are several volleyball nets strung up every few blocks right in the sand, as well as handball courts on West 5th Street (by the bandshell) but these tend to be taken over by older people playing. Don’t miss the tiny marine rock “playground” on the boardwalk right where the Aquarium wall begins, where kids can climb around on the rocks, complete a challenge to find all the marine life on the rocks, and have a chance to look through binoculars (with steps for shorter visitors).
Brighton Playground: Brighton 2nd St. & Brightwater Ct. (just off the boardwalk)
Get Your Thrills on New Rides at Deno’s Wonder Wheel and Luna Park
Luna Park is open for the summer and ready to thrill and excite visitors of all ages. The more daring of your group can tackle the legendary Cyclone roller coaster (for a preview, listen out to the period screams of delight that can be heard all the way from the boardwalk) and the newer gravity-defying Thunderbolt. There are plenty of choices for smaller and less thrill-seeking family members, too, like the classic teapot ride, some high-flying options, and even a firefighting ride.
This year, look out for two brand new additions to the Luna Park ride family: Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure. Named after the grandparents of Luna Park’s CEO, Alessandra Zamperla, these two rides will pay homage to the Switchback Railway (the first-ever rollercoaster on Coney Island from 1884) and Shoot the Chutes (a semi-aquatic ride from the early 1900s), respectively. Tony’s Express will be a family-friendly rollercoaster with over 1,200 feet of track and Leti’s Treasure will have 12 6-seater boats that will rise over 40 feet high the drop into water with a splash. Both are planned to open this summer so keep your eyes open for them.
Deno’s Wonder Wheel (The park home to the eponymous ride in between the two sections of Luna Park) also recently debuted a new ride. The Phoenix Rollercoaster (shown above), a family thrill roller coaster that join’s Deno’s healthy collection of tamer kiddie rides.)
Travel Back to the Past with the Coney Island History Project
The Coney Island History Project isn’t a very big place — it’s just two rooms — but it’s filled wall to wall with the history of the boardwalk and its many attractions. Plus: it’s free!The History Project is full of pieces from the area’s past, like Coney Island’s oldest relic (a toll house sign from 1823), and reminders of the darker rides that used to greet visitors at the amusement park (including a skull that looks stripped of its skin. Yikes).
This year’s special exhibit focuses on Barbara Rosenberg’s street photography. Taken over the course of 50 years, these photographs cover Steeplechase Park, the Polar Bear Club, Boardwalk attractions from the 1970s, and more glimpses into the history of Coney Island.
You can also check out the History Project’s podcast, Coney Island Stories, which aims to record an oral history of the area. The newest episode, “Growing Up in the 1940s,” interviews residents of the neighborhood about the hardships and delights of living in Coney Island in the 1940s.
Free
Sat., Sun., and holidays 1-7 p.m.
3059 West 12th St. (under Deno’s Wonder Wheel) Online: Coney Island History Project:
Revisit the Nabe’s Golden Age at the Coney Island Museum
The Coney Island Museum is a tribute to the history of the neighborhood, full of vintage, authentic funhouse mirrors, rare postcards, shooting gallery targets, and more. The museum also highlights all the innovations that the neighborhood’s brought to the world: Sure you might know of Nathan’s hot dog, but did you know that Coney Island introduced the first baby incubators, originally as a sideshow? Discover more interesting and historic facts, trinkets, photos, and more in the historic building.
This summer, the museum is hosting a new exhibit in collaboration with New York Transit Museum: Five Cents to Dreamland. This special exhibit brings together artifacts from both museums to paint a picture of the way transportation to the beach contributed to making Coney Island and its attractions such a great success.
$5/adult, $3/seniors, kids under 12 and residents of zipcode 11224
Sat. and Sun., 12-5 p.m.
1208 Surf Ave. Online: Coney Island Museum
Get Your Fill of American, Ukrainian, and Russian Food
Hungry? Head to the Luna Park side of the boardwalk for your pick of beachside classics like funnel cakes and cheese fries, or more traditional sit-down restaurants. There are some excellent family-friendly options by the Stillwell train station, like the classic Nathan’s, iHop, and Applebees. Head to It’s Sugar for a treat after the meal, or check out the newly opened Coney Waffle, across from the Cyclone.
But the Luna Park fare isn’t the only place to get something to earth. On the Brighton Beach train side of the boardwalk, Tatiana Restaurant and adjoining grill is a solid pick for an evening meal, and it’s especially nice if you can get an outdoor seat. Steps off the boardwalk on Brighton Beach proper (under the train), in what’s commonly known as Little Odessa, there are many ethnic Eastern European and Russian food options, whether you want to sit down and enjoy your meal or grab a treat for the road — I highly recommend potato or chicken piroshkis, which are fried bread with delicious hand-made fillings.
It’s important to note, considering current events, that although the neighborhood houses a mix of residets from Russia, Ukraine and adjoining countries, there’s been a outpouring of support and solidarity for Ukraine in the neighborhood. If you want to support Ukrainian-owned businesses, or Russian businesses that stand with Ukraine, look for Ukrainian flags hanging in storefonts. To name just two, the aforementioned Tatiana is a Ukraine supporter, as is Taste of Russia at 219 Brighton Beach Ave, which has recently rebranded as “International Food” to be more inclusive.
Julie Larsen Maher
Meet the Fishies at the New York Aquarium
Now’s a great time to see the aquatic residents of the New York Aquarium: For the first time in about 10 years, the aquarium will be completely, fully open! All the repairs from Hurricane Sandy are complete and the areas closed due to covid are reopened, so visitors can finally see the aquarium in all its glory.
To celebrate, the aquarium has opened a number of new interactive exhibits, from PlayQuarium’s touch pool to a new space that lets you watch sea lions, harbor seals, penguins, and otters frolic underwater. Learn about the impact of climate change, enjoy crafts, music, and trivia, or watch some performances at the Wildlife Theater. Don’t miss the giant octopus mural and tentacles photo-op!
The Coney Island art walls might be gone, but the artistic spirit of the community lives on. Keep an eye out for newly completed murals around the neighborhood and boardwalk.
Catching a baseball game at the stadium on Coney is a timeless treat, so don’t miss out! Catch the legendary Brooklyn Cyclones in action at the diamond. Tuesdays have special family deals: For just $20, you get a ticket, a cyclones hat, hot dog or chicken tenders, fries, and drinks. Events typically include fun extras like giveaways, fireworks, and shows.
Coney Flicks is back this year, so you can once again enjoy a movie under the stars on the beach. Catch three free screenings every Monday in the summer, starting with “Encanto” on June 27. Other movies include “Spiderman No Way Home,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” and more.
The movies will be shown on a giant inflated screen, with the colorful nighttime Luna Park acting as ambient light. Screenings will begin at sundown, so times vary. Bring a towel and snacks for an evening picnic.
Check out the annual sand-sculpting contest, to be held sometime in August (exact date to be announced). After being postponed in 2021 due to rising coronavirus cases in the area, the 30th contest is set to happen this year. Every year, the event brings in expert sand sculptors for some incredible sand works of art. Check out the winners of the 2019 contest for a taste of what to expect
Appreciate the Beauty of Classic Cars
Come explore some classic old cars lined up along West 12th Street. Vote for your favorite, watch performances from the Coney Island sideshow and more.
Father’s Day is almost here. While you and the kids are busy cranking out a super sweet DIY card or thoughtful gift, we’ll work on finding fantastic Father’s Day activities to make your weekend special. Since we know the Dad’s Day vibe is all about having fun (and maybe a beer or a backyard barbecue), we’ve come up with 21 ways to honor the dads, grandpas, uncles and other father figures in your life with all things he loves to do. Here’s where to have a happy Father’s Day around Seattle with your top pop.
Festival season is in full swing. And over Father’s Day weekend there’s no shortage of outdoor fairs welcoming families around Seattle. Kick it off with the Fremont Fair happening Saturday and Sunday at the Center of the Universe. Over 300 vendors, art cars, beer gardens and let’s just say colorful parades make this one of the city’s most memorable events of the year.
Wash all the parading down with a frothy pint for Pop at the Washington Brewer’s Festival. Held at King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond, this festival is open to all ages on Saturday and Sunday (Friday night is reserved for the 21 & older crowd). Dad can go with his dad buddies on Friday night, and then you can go as a family on Saturday or Sunday for some fun. Kids under 12 are free, and they will love the root beer garden, face painting, balloon animals and inflatables (for an extra cost) that’ll keep them entertained all day long.
Father’s Day falls on Juneteenth this year. Combine your Father’s Day activities with a Juneteenth Celebration hosted by LANGSTON along the waterfront. Featuring local artists, a live DJ, food trucks and more, it’s a chance to honor Black excellence in Seattle. Keep that focus all weekend long when you visit Festival Sundiata Black Arts Fest at Seattle Center on Saturday. If Dad can think up an art form, it’ll be there, plus more, like a Children’s Village and intriguing exhibits at the Unspoken Truths Museum.
Art-loving dads will find tons of things to see and do at the annual Edmonds Arts Festival. In addition live entertainment, Dad can take in the juried gallery art exhibition and sale while the kids participate in hands-on art activities.
One last festival to put on your father’s radar is the Washington State Summer Con, happening all weekend long at the Mattress Firm Showplex on the state fairgrounds. Dress in your con best and take your real-life hero to meet some of his pop culture heroes.
Father’s Day Car Shows
Allison Sutcliffe
Naturally, Father’s Day weekend is full of car shows—it’s really the only weekend they can get away with convincing the entire family to walk around ogling at cars! And lucky for dads who have the need for speed, there are a few ways to feed that need in the Seattle area over Father’s Day Weekend.
Dads on the south end of Seattle can flock to the Father's Day Car Show in downtown Burien, which will featuring vintage lean, mean, cruz’n machines. Expect vendors and food trucks where you can grab a little nibbly. Speaking of food, before or after the car show cruise by Strawberry Days at Town Square Park for lots of strawberry goodness, carnival games and live music.
Fenders on Front Street located in downtown Issaquah is great for dads on the Eastside. Stroll down Front Street oohing and ahhing at the collection of vintage and classic cars before grabbing a curbside seat to watch the Cruise to the Triple XXX at 3 p.m. There will live music, food trucks and family activities throughout the event. Also on the Eastside is the special Father’s Day Weekend Steam Train Ride through the Snoqualmie Valley.
Our last pick for car-loving dads is a trip to LeMay-America’s Car Museum in Tacoma to see Reclaimed Rust. These jaw-dropping cars are more works of art than anything. But for many dads, the fact that they’re part of Metallica frontman, James Hetfield’s collection will be the real draw here. Rock on!
Museum Events on Father’s Day
MoPOP
Black Panther. Do the Right Thing. Selma. These are just a few of the movie titles celebrated costume designed Ruth E. Carter has worked on. Take dad to see her fantastic creations at the Afrofuturism exhibit, opening at MoPOP over Father’s Day weekend. More than 60 of her costumes will be on display, so you can admire her attention to detail and undeniable talent up close. When you’re done, bring pop to the Sound Lab to jam together.
The Museum of Flight is honoring dads with free admission, making it the perfect place to go (even if you have to go to brunch first). The Museum is open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Father’s Day, and a visit is especially a good idea if you have grandparents or family members in town to celebrate—it appeals to every age and you don’t have to be obsessed with planes to enjoy yourself here.
Thanks to an unseasonably cool spring, strawberry u-pick season was a bit delayed this year. Bad for farmers, but good for dads, as many of the area’s best u-pick farms open right before Father’s Day weekend. You can simply take dad strawberry picking and whip up something sweet with your ripe, red berries at home. Or you can bring dad to Baby Animals & Berries at Swans Trail Farms in Snohomish. Not only will kids get to cuddle the farms most adorable babies, but all of the playground perks will be open too—we’re talking giant slides, cow train rides, haymazes and more.
Skate through the unpredictability of the rainiest season in recent years with a retro good time when you take the family roller skating. These nearby Seattle-area roller skating rinks offer everything you need to convince your kids you were cool…once. From classic skate spots that’ll bring you back to your youth, to those featuring game nights and plenty of extras (hello, bowling!), we’ve mapped out Seattle-area roller rinks to check out the next time you want to maximize family fun time.
The Classic Skate Spot
Southgate Roller Rink Locals love this rink located in White Center. It's got a reputation as "Seattle's Friendly Rink," and is sure to please any skate enthusiast. Weekends are dedicated to families which means you're guaranteed family-friendly music, games and an awesome time. In addition to open skate times, Southgate Roller Rink also offers a learn to skate class for all ages for $17 every Sunday from 11 a.m. to noon. The best part? The Family Skate session, immediately following the class, is included in the fee.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Fri., 6-8 p.m. Family Skate, $12 Sat., 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m, $12 Sun., noon-4:30 p.m., $12
Rental Fees: Roller skate rentals are free with admission; $4.50 for premium upgraded skates.
The Best Spot for Beginners
Pattison's West If you're looking for an affordable, fun and safe place the whole family will enjoy, Pattison's West is for you. Providing family fun and entertainment to children, teens, and adults for over 30 years, this place is huge and not only offers a fab rink with a DJ, but a snack bar, arcade and hourly games with prizes. If you're new to roller skating (or just need a tune up), there's a beginners class on Fridays, from 11 to 11:30 a.m. for just $15. Then it's time to put your newly learned skills to the test at the following skate session that's included in the price.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Wed. & Fri., 4:30-7 p.m. Family Skate, $11 Sat., 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (three different sessions), Family Skate, $11 Sun., 1:30-7 p.m. (two different sessions), Family Skate, $11
34222 Pacific Hwy. S. Federal Way, WA 98003 253-838-7442 Online:pattisonswest.com
Rental Fees: Regular skate rental is $2; Interested in trying inline skates or quads? Add $2-$3 to the regular skate session pricing.
Everett Skate Deck Home of the Jet City Roller Girls Roller Derby, Everett Skate Deck has been in business for over 50 years and it's easy to see why they are a family favorite. They really have it all covered between the rink complete with a mirrored disco ball and DJs playing your favorite tunes, to the inflatable toys, arcade games, concession stand and big screen TVs. If you've got a crew of newbie skaters, beginner skate classes are offered on Saturdays from 11 a.m.-noon for $60. The price includes four classes along with roller skate rentals. The first class starts on the first Saturday of every month.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Thu., 6-9 p.m., Family Night, $12 Fri., 5:30-8:30 p.m. Open Skate (All Ages), $12 Sat. & Sun., 1-8 p.m. (three different sessions), Open Skate (All Ages), $12
Prices include skate rentals. Save $2 on admission when you bring your own.
Best Spot to Skate & Scooter Too
Allison Sutcliffe
Skateworld Tacoma With an eye on safety, Skateworld Tacoma (formerly Rollin' 253) is all about getting families out and being active. They make it easy for everyone in the family to take part, even if skating isn't their thing. Rent a scooter (they offer everything from toddler-sized scooters to scooters big kids can use) for reluctant skaters and let them follow along. Or encourage a shaky skater with a Skate Mate ($5) and a glowing roller skate necklace. Add in Skate School ($20) on Saturdays, from 9 to 10 a.m. and you've got everything your kids need to learn to skate.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Tue. & Thu., 5-8 p.m., Public Skate, $15 Fri., 6-10 p.m. Public Skate, $15 Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Public Skate, $15 Sun., noon-6 p.m.. Public Skate, $15
Lynnwood Bowl & Skate What could be better than a place that offers a bowling alley, a roller skating rink and full-service concession stand? Not much in our book which is why we think Lynnwood Bowl & Skate is an amazing choice for some fab family bonding. When your kid crew gets tired of skating, hit the lanes for a game of bowling and order up the kid's sampler platter.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Mon. & Tue., 6-8 p.m., Open Skate (All Ages),$10 Wed., 6-9 p.m., Open Skate (All Ages), $10 Fri., 7:30 p.m.-midnight, Open Skate (All Ages), $13 Sat., noon-midnight, Open Skate (All Ages), $13 Sun., noon-10 p.m., Open Skate (All Ages), $13 Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-noon, Beginner Skate Lessons (includes Open Skate session that follows) $20
6210 200th St. S.W. Lynnwood, WA 98036 425-778-3133 Online:bowlandskate.com
Rental Fees: Admission includes quad roller skates or inline skates. You are welcome to bring your own skates as long as they are clean and in good condition.
During the school year, two of our area's community centers host Friday night skate sessions. The best part? It only costs $3-$4 per skater and includes skate rentals. Both centers follow a school schedule so there's no roller skating on holidays or during the summer.
Alki Community Center Kick off your TGIF by heading to the Alki Community Center where they offer family skate every Friday night during the school year starting in September. Kick the weekend off right with awesome games, music and some serious roller skating fun.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Fri., 5:45-7:45 p.m., $3
Bitter Lake Community Center After a long week, relax and have some fun at family skate night at the Bitter Lake Annex. A popular spot for families, this is a perfect place to meet up with some friends or make new ones. Family skate night takes place on Fridays during the school year.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Fri. 6:30-8:15 p.m., $5
Rental Fees: Roller skates are included with admission. Feel free to bring your own skates or borrow a pair from the Community Center. Toy skates are not allowed.
The Best Spot for Variety
Marysville Skate Center Step back in time with music from the '70s to current hits, and skate on a real maple hardwood floor at Marysville Skate Center. We heart their retro, glow and hot hits skate sessions, but their Sunday family special has stolen our hearts. Held on Sundays from 1-4:30 p.m., they include free cotton candy, games and prizes and at $6 a person or $20 for a family of four, it's a deal that's hard to beat.
Open skate session times and prices are as follows: Tue., 1-3 p.m., Homeschool, $5 Wed.., 6:30-9 p.m. All Ages Skate Session, $6 Fri., 5-7 p.m. Family Skate, $6/person or $20/family of 4 Sat., 1-4 p.m., Open Skate, $6 Sun., 1-4 p.m. Family Day, $6/person or $20/family of 4
It probably goes without saying that parents are always feeling proud of their kids for one reason or another, whether your son finished a difficult reading assignment or your daughter scored her first soccer goal. But just as important as their accomplishment is how you show your kids that feeling of pride. From words of advice to simple acts of kindness, here are 15 great ways parents can show their kids they are proud of them.
iStock
1. Say "I'm proud of you." First and foremost, tell your kiddo you're proud of them when the time arises. You don't have to say this every day, but those words are encouragement are very meaningful to kids when they hear it from mom or dad.
2. Write them a note. Express pride by writing a little note or giving your little one a card or drawing that tells them you're proud of who they are as people or praises them for an accomplishment.
3. Talk about the obstacles. If your kid is struggling with an activity such as soccer or reading, offer support and recognize the obstacles he's facing. At the same time, express your pride that your kiddo is facing those challenges.
4. Share some cookies. Nothing says love and pride like homemade chocolate chip cookies. Bake a batch of cookies and offer one to your son or daughter for being a great kid. Not a baker? Treat your kiddo to a cookie at the bakery counter at the grocery store instead.
5. Say you're proud in front of others. It's one thing if you tell your daughter you're proud of her. It's another when she hears you saying it to grandma or grandpa. Tell others how proud you are when your kids do something worthy of praise.
iStock
6. Don't forget the small stuff. Of course, parents are proud when their son scores a goal or accomplishes a major milestone. But don't forget to show pride and offer words of encouragement when your kiddo does something small, such as help to set the table or read a book to her younger sibling.
7. Read a book to your kid about how you feel. Express pride through a children's book or story. After you finish reading the book, explain to your little one that the pride you feel is just like what the characters in the book feel.
8. Do an activity together. Show your kids how proud you are of them by participating in a family activity together. If your kids have been working on improving their physical activity, sign the family up for a 1-mile fun run and explain that it's a family reward.
9. Hug them.Showing affection is always a good thing. A hug not only expresses love but can also show your little one you're proud of them too.
10. Praise your son/daughter for the things they're working on. Recognize the process itself is an accomplishment. Tell your son you're proud of his work on accomplishing the larger goal still being worked on.
iStock
11. Go to the park, a movie or an outing. If you want something more than words of encouragement, look for an activity to do together as a way to express pride. A trip to the park, movie or museum is a great expression of pride.
12. Tell them you're grateful to be their parent. We're proud of our kids for what they do, but make sure your little one knows you're also proud to be their parent, too.
13. Say "I believe in you." You've told your kiddo you're proud, but what about telling them you also believe in them and have confidence in their choices. That's a point of pride in itself.
14. Praise your kid for the great choices they make. Tell your little ones why you're proud of them by explaining how they've made good choices. Hearing that and the words of encouragement will only motivate them to continue their positive behavior.
15. Give a small gift. You don't want to make it a habit of expressing pride through gift-giving. But perhaps there's a special circumstance when your kid has been working hard on accomplishing a goal. When she reaches the goal, give her a small gift and tell her how proud you are.
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16. Let your kiddo decide what's for dinner. Maybe you have a picky eater at home who just went an entire week eating her veggies. Express your pride in that accomplishment by letting her pick the Friday night dinner.
17. Say "thank you." It's often these words of encouragement and daily conversations with our little ones that the greatest impact. Expressing thanks is just one way to share words of encouragement and pride.
18. Point out the positive in a negative situation. So often, we get too focused on the negative situations that occur every day. For every negative instance, try focusing on something positive your kiddo did and tell him you're proud of that.
19. Don't forget to be proud if they own up to their mistakes. Your son may have accidentally broke an item at home, but he told you what happened. It's okay to be upset about the broken object, but make sure to tell your son you're proud that he told the truth. This will make future confessions easier.
20. Hang the accomplishment on the fridge. If you're proud your kiddo did well on an exam or drew a pretty picture, display it proudly on the refrigerator or bulletin board for family and friends to see.
Los Angeles has an incredibly rich, LGBQT history—including hosting one of the first LGBQT parades on Hollywood Blvd. in 1970. To celebrate Pride Month, we’re pulling together a list of historically significant places where you can visit and learn more about these landmark achievements, along with some kid-friendly Pride Month events you can join all month long (also don’t miss our must-read list of LGBTQ books for kids). Check out our list below and make sure to check back often as updates are happening regularly!
photo: iStock
Pride Events & Activities in Los Angeles
Pride Night: LA Galaxy vs. Austin FC May 29:The Galaxy will host Pride Night, presented by Sherwin-Williams, on Sunday, May 29 against Austin FC to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Experience special activations throughout the match in collaboration with Galaxy supporters, the Los Angeles LGBT Center and MLS’ Soccer For All program. The National Anthem will be performed by and Casey Breves avid supporters of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, there will be an Angel City Brigade Clothing Drive where donations will benefit the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Youth Center as well as a Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital Food Drive. Bins at each entrance to the stadium. Donations will go to the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Pride Pantry. Event details.
LGBTQ+ Night at Dodger Stadium Jun. 3: The Dodgers have again teamed up with their long-time community nonprofit partner LA Pride to host their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium, presented by Blue Shield of California. This celebration of Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community will include drink specials in the pavilion bars, a special recognition of frontline workers from Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community and additional surprise guests featured during pregame ceremonies. The fun also continues post-game with Friday Night Fireworks, set to music mixed by DJ Bowie Jane. A special event ticket package includes a ticket to the game and an exclusive Dodgers LGBTQ+-themed jersey! Event details.
Light up the Night for Equality Viewing Party Jun. 3: Venice Pride cordially invites you to the Light Up the Night for Equality Viewing Party at Hotel Erwin’s High Rooftop Lounge to witness the L.A. premiere and illumination of Yvette Mattern’s Global Rainbow laser installation across the California Coast by a special guest. Event details.
Venice Pride Festival Jun. 4-5: Venice Pride Festival is returning and open to all ages! LA’s beloved grassroots LGBTQ+ celebration grows to two days and moves to a brand new beachside location: Venice Beach Recreation Center. Event details.
Let’s Celebrate LBGTQIA Voices! Jun. 6: Join Central Library for an online book club for teens to discuss a YA Fiction or Non-Fiction book that features LGBTQIA voices. Email teens@lapl.org from your school email address at least one hour before the program to request the link. Homeschool students, note the program name and “Homeschool” in the email subject line, make sure to include your name and grade level. Event details.
COME4ME by Kim Chi’ Donuts at Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts Jun. 10-30: To celebrate Pride Month, Hollywood favorite Danny Trejo, and his donut shop Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts, are teaming up with RuPaul’s Drag Race alum and cosmetics queen Kim Chi of KimChi Chic Beauty& KimChi Eats to create a colorful and delicious donut inspired by her iconic lewks. Head to Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts in Hollywood to taste the duo’s limited-time ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ donut that will be filled with taro cream cheese and topped with a white chocolate taro glitter glaze, passion fruit buttercream, candied dragon fruit and passion fruit flakes ($4). A portion of the proceeds from ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ will be donated to Seniors Fight Back, a charity whose mission is to stop hate against AAPI seniors. Event details.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Jun. 11: The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County will host its first-ever Queer Family Day, featuring a rainbow-themed scavenger hunt, dino dance party, drag queen storytime, up-close encounters with behind-the-scenes museum collections, and more! The museum welcomes guests to wear their favorite shade of green to show off your nature-loving pride. This event is free with museum admission and for members. Event details.
LA Pride in the Park
Jun. 11: Christina Aguilera is headlining LA Pride in the Park, the music event with two stages, sponsor activations, exhibitors, and plenty of food and drink at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Gates open at 1 p.m., and the party goes until 11 p.m. Event details.
LA Pride Parade Jun. 12:The 2022 LA Pride Parade is back! Cheer on this iconic LGBTQ+ procession along with 130 contingents of marchers, performers, nonprofits, celebrities, and the businesses that proudly celebrate their LGBTQ+ employees as they walk in the 52nd Annual LA Pride Parade. This year’s theme, “Love Your Pride” which highlights “ Los Angeles as a global city whose communities love in every language. This Pride season, we’re inclusively embracing LA’s diversity by writing a love letter to LA in many languages.” Make sure to visit “Pride Village,” which is located next to the start and finish of the Parade. Vendor booths, activities and Ferris wheel will be featured. Admission is free. Event details.
Inaugural Pride Village Street Fair Jun. 12: This eclectic, family-friendly all-day street fair will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will welcome patrons to continue their Pride celebrations during and after the iconic parade. The family-friendly festivities will include two stages for music and performances throughout the day, including various DJs, a performance by RuPaul’s Drag Race All Star winner, Alaska, and more, as well as a Ferris wheel, pop-up roller skating rink, beer and bar garden, food trucks, local vendors, festive programming, and lots of love. Event details.
Bingo Night With Drag Queen Pickle Jun. 13: Kick off the “Express Yourself” Summer Reading Challenge with a fabulous Bingo Night, hosted by Drag Queen Pickle. Pickle, organizer of the local Drag Queen Story Hour, brings all of the glamour and humor that a rollicking game of bingo really needs. Event details.
Pride Paddle Jun. 26: The Southbay LGBTQ Center and The Portofino Hotel & Marina in collaboration with Harbor Vibes are hosting the second-annual Pride Paddle, taking place in the King Harbor Marina. Starting from the public hand launch behind Seaside Lagoon, paddlers will traverse through the harbor to the King Harbor Yacht Club and back with fun stops along the way. For anyone who is new to paddle boarding, support and instruction will be available to you during the event. Post-paddle, head to BALEEN Kitchen featuring a signature drink; The Flamingo consisting of a Watermelon Sorbet, homemade Coconut Orgeat, Drake’s Organic Vodka, Pineapple juice and fresh mint, with a fruity pebbles rim. 10% of all proceeds going to the Southbay LGBTQ Center. Event details.
SaMo PRIDE 2022
Santa Monica Pier, Downtown Santa Monica, and Santa Monica Place, in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, present SaMo PRIDE: a month of rainbows and festivities to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. For the month of Jun., The Pier, Santa Monica Place, Third Street Promenade and surrounding businesses will celebrate Pride Month with a vibrant light installation dubbed “Miles of Pride,” which spans miles of city streets, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors. These installations will serve as a backdrop for a full calendar of events that bring together community, families and supporters from around the world. With a focus on family-friendly art, events and community connection, City of Santa Monica partners will host PRIDE markets, story hours, live music and so much more to help celebrate love in every color. Event details.
Big Sunday Volunteers
Big Sunday has teamed up with LA Pride for Pride Makes a Difference, a series of more than 300 helping events all over town in Jun. Event details.
Made With Pride Marketplace Every Fri.-Sun. in Jun., Santa Monica Place is partnering with Streetlet, an opportunity-matching and growth engine for small business owners and makers, to bring a pop-up Made with PRIDE Marketplace to the center. This unique marketplace is part of the annual SaMo PRIDE, a month-long citywide celebration focused on family-friendly displays and activities that safely celebrate the City of Santa Monica’s inclusive and diverse spirit. Once again PRIDE events will be anchored by “Miles of Pride,” a vibrant light installation that spans the Promenade and Santa Monica Place, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. Event details.
Teen Grab-and-Go Crafts: Rainbow Garland During the month of Jun., teens and tweens ages 11-18 years can pick up a craft kit with all the supplies needed to make a rainbow garland. Visit the North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Library Reference Desk during library hours to get your kit. Event details.
SAYGAY for PRIDE
In partnership with the It Gets Better Project, the rebranded Banter by Piercing Pagoda has created a limited-edition nameplate necklace that reads ‘SayGAY’, with 100% of sales, up to $25,000, benefitting the IGBP’s mission of uplifting and empowering lives of the LGBTQ+ youth around the globe through the month of June. Help fight harmful legislation being passed around the US and supporting everyone’s right to live and love freely! Details can be found here.
The Black Cat, formally a bar and now a gastropub located in Silver Lake, was the scene of a brutal police raid on New Year's Eve in 1966. Two months later, in 1967, in response to the raid, a peaceful protest was held, noted as "the site of the first documented LGBTQ civil rights demonstration in the nation." In 2008, The Black Cat was recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument.
This outdoor staircase in Silver Lake, was named after the Mattachine Society—one of the world's first gay rights clubs, founded in 1950. This staircase was how members reached the meetings, hosted by Henry Hay, in his home.
Once you climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Silver Lake Reservoir.
2355 Cove Ave. Los Angeles
LA Public Library
The LA Public Library is an integral resource for LGBQT history where you can access videos, maps, books, films and more that showcase the struggle for equal rights in the gay community. If you can't make it to the library, you can still check out resources thanks to hoopla digital–a free resource that allows valid library card holders to access and download ebooks, movies, audiobooks, comics and tv shows to your device. They have an extensive collection of LGBTQ+ media you can access including children's books like, "A Boy Named Queen" and "From Archie to Zak."
Stocked with over 80,000 titles, Children's Book World is "committed to celebrate diversity, knowledge, and enrichment. A world where every child sees themselves on our shelves." Recognized year after year for this achievement, they are also know for their "book selection that is open-minded (gay-friendly, multi-cultural) and well-organized, divided into age-appropriate sections."
This is the world's largest research library dedicated to honor and archive LGBTQ history. Located near the USC campus, exhibitions, art shows and cinematic screenings are hosted here as well as at their gallery space, ONE Gallery, located in West Hollywood.
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archive 909 West Adams Blvd. Los Angeles
Los Angeles was first settled by the Tongva tribe and called the area Yang Na. But what makes this noteworthy is that the Tongva people were LGBTQ friendly. LA’s first tribes believed in "gay marriages, transgender lifestyles and that homosexuality was determined in utero" even going as far as celebrating homosexuals as “two spirited people and thought of them more as gifted than as outcasts." Look for a plaque in the plaza area honoring these ancestors.
Tia Chucha's independent bookstore specializes in providing great books on "Xicanx and Latinx history and literature, indigenous knowledge, bilingual children’s books, contemporary and social commentary issues, as well as Spanish-language, queer/LGBTQIA, art, poetry, antiracism, social change, and much more."
Located in Lincoln Park, this was the first publicly-funded AIDS monument in the country. In this serene space, you'll see a stainless steel archway as well as eight panels—six of the panels depict life with AIDS in the Latino community, and two granite panels will eventually display the names of 8,000 people lost to AIDS.
"Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center provides services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy."
Maker sure to stop by and catch a show at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, the Center's state-of-the-art educational, cultural, and social center.
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza 1125 N McCadden Pl. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
Los Angeles LGBT Center 1625 N. Schrader Blvd. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
The Celebration Theatre
The Celebration Theatre was founded in 1982 and is the only professional theater with the "mission of creating an outlet for LGBTQIA+ voices in Los Angeles."
Must-See:Dear Harvey: Stories of Harvey Milk is playing Sun. May 22-Sun. May. 29.
The time is ripe to hit the farm in Georgia for juicy strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and peaches (not to mention other perks, like pony rides, tractor rides, corn pits, maybe a CSA box program, and inflatables at some spots). There’s no denying these Atlanta u-pick farms have got it all for families. While different crops ripen at different times, we’ve picked our favorite farms to take the small set for a day of fresh air, berry-stained fingers, and happy hearts. Read on for more about our favorite fields for strawberry (and other berries!) picking fun.
Note: If you’re looking for U-pick apple orchards, we’ve got seven to visit that aren’t too far from the city.
Wild Fern Ranch offers around 1000 Certified All Natural (CNG) blueberry bushes of 3 different varieties that yield roughly 500 pound of delish blueberries per week. Open and in season from early June through mid July (check social media pages for details), you can visit from Mon.-Sat. for u-pick from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Don't miss community days weekly for discounted picking and Friday night events for live music.
Offering a “Farm Fun Park” that includes a petting zoo, corn crib, inflatable slides, bounce house and playground set, this u-pick has the market cornered on farm fun in Forsyth County. Other perks include live bluegrass music and "hey" rides (pricing for Family Fun Park is $9 per child and $5 for ages 12 years and older, plus tax). Strawberry picking hours will be determined by availability and weather, so check here for current conditions before you go.
Blueberries are the newest addition to the u-pick options at Adams Farm in Fayetteville, and since the fields are netted, you don't have to compete with the birds for the berries. Containers are provided, there's a market with fruits and vegetables, and you can visit Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
At this Watkinsville farm, spring strawberry season begins in mid-April and comes not only with buckets for berry picking, but also four super Saturdays where activities include wagon rides, a petting zoo, a cow train, a corn box, and more. Go later in the summer for blackberries, and pick your pumpkins there in the fall. Just be sure you pick before you play to make sure that the fields don't get picked out early! Open Monday-Saturdays 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Sundays.
5691 Hog Mountain Rd. Bogart, Ga 30622 770-554-8119 Online:washingtonfarms.net
DJ's U-Pick Blueberry Farm
For a closer-to-town option, DJ's—located a stone's throw from the Gwinnett Braves stadium—specializes in blueberries, but they also have Scottish Highland Cows (Coco & Rudolph) and goats on our farm. Please check DJ's Facebook page daily for hours or call ahead to make sure they are indeed open for the day. Open Monday-Sunday from 8 a.m. until picked out.
At Moon Farms Country Market, you'll find over 25,000 plants consisting of two different varieties of strawberries— Camarosa and Chandler. Pick-your-own fresh from the farm, or call ahead and place a pre-pick order. Check the website for fruit availability, and go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 2-6 p.m.
3498 GA-72 Colbert, Ga 30628 706-338-0065 Online:moon-farms.com
Head to this 330-acre family farm in McDonough for pick-your-own berries, plus a country market, jumping pillows, a cow train, pedal cars, a hayride, a giant tube slide, and more (all on the weekends). Admission to the farm activities is $8/ person, but the berries are free to pick (you pay for what you pick after you're finished picking). Go Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sundays 1-6 p.m. Do yourself a favor and pick up an order of strawberry shortcake (with or without soft serve ice cream) before you leave!
This family orchard, now in its 4th generation, begins picking season with strawberries in mid to late April, then offers blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and apples through the summer and into the fall. Go for the u-picks on select dates, but stay for the bakery and deli, market store, and now a farm winery and cider house. Open seven days a week from 7 a.m.-6 p.m., but u-picks are available only on select dates, weather permitting.
8660 Blue Ridge Dr. Blue Ridge, Ga 30513 706-632-3411 Online:mercier-orchards.com
This working farm in Oxford, Georgia offers seasonal u-pick patches for strawberries and blueberries in the spring, blackberries in the summer, and pumpkins in the fall. Hours depend on availability of the crop and the weather, so be sure to check this out before you load the car. In addition to the fields, Mitcham Farm also has homemade strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, local honey, frog jam, preserves, salsas, fresh produce (depending on availability) and other specialty items for sale at their Farm Stand, in addition to two family swings, a farm animal viewing area, and a picnic area onsite. Go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 1-5 p.m., weather permitting. Check their Facebook page for live updates on picking conditions.
797 Macedonia Church Rd. Oxford, Ga 30054 770-855-1530 Online:mitchamfarm.com
Fleeman’s offers clean potties, a picnic table under the shade of an old oak and eight varieties of Rabbit-Eye, pesticide-free blueberries perfect for little pickers. Prices and hours will vary depending on weather and crop availability, but the picking season typically runs from late June through August. Call ahead to check out the farmer's forecast for the day.
While they only open their farm for strawberry picking one day a year—this year on May 5—the folks at Jaemor Farm know how to throw a party. In addition to picking, the kiddos will go bananas over the hayrides, petting zoo, farm slide, skeeball and duck races, while you can taste a couple of new recipes at the strawberry cook-off and check out the local vendors at the festival portion of the farm. Don't miss the homemade strawberry milkshakes and fresh milk samples from Mountain Fresh Creamery's mobile dairy unit. Check website for updates on u-pick events.
5340 Cornelia Hwy. Alto, Ga 30510 770-869-3999 Online:jaemorfarms.com
Remember to always call ahead since farm hours and crop availability are constantly in flux. Also note that many farms are cash only so hit the bank before hitting the road! Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, bug spray, and water.
For many moms, Mother’s Day typically includes breakfast in bed (or if you’re lucky, brunch at your fave restaurant), a little bit of pampering and a kid-made card that melts your heart. If you’re looking to go beyond an at-home celebration this year, check out these Seattle-area Mother’s Day activities that will help make the day extra special. From ball games and free museum days to train rides and cooking classes here’s how mom, grandma, auntie or any other special person in your life can make memories and celebrate the day.
There’s a reason why flowers are the go-to gift for moms on Mother’s Day. Spring's most spectacular flowers are in full bloom, and garden starts are finally rousing from their winter slumber. So if finding a great plant, bouquet or garden accessory is on your list of things to do with mom, you can’t go wrong with these options. For bright, bold blooms head to the Seattle Chinese Garden’s annual Peony Festival, where you’ll find gorgeous flowers available for purchase (or your viewing pleasure) and live performances too. If mom wants to spice up her garden with herbs, veggies and fruit starts, the Tilth Alliance’s Annual Edible Plant Sale, scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, is the place to find what you need. It the go-to spot to find plants that grow really well in our temperate rainforest climate.
Krukeberg Garden in Shoreline is another great spot to hit. Over Mother's Day weekend parents will find plants to purchase, and kids can make a newspaper pot nasturtium planter (Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. only), so they can come home with a little something for mom too. If you’re on the Eastside, it doesn’t get easier or more festive than Oxbox Farm’s SpringFest. Explore the farm’s trails and nature playground before sitting down for an OxEd family activity and a farm-fresh meal from the Outdoor Kitchen. Trust us, Mom will thank you.
Spend the day at the market
Pike Place Market/PDA
A day at Seattle’s one and only Pike Place Market is sure to be a hit with any mom, especially when it involves live music, kids’ activities, a scavenger hunt and (undeniably our favorite part) temporary mom tattoos. Did we mention the 14th Annual Flower Festival and Free Comic Book Day are scheduled for that weekend too? You can’t miss with this pick. MOHAI’s Spring Fling on Saturday is another one to put on your radar. And if you’re willing to travel a bit, the Native Art Market at ALMA in Tacoma is worth it. They’ve got a covered outdoor patio where you can grab a gourmet bite to eat after you've shopped.
Take mom to a museum
Natali Wiseman
With so many amazing museums in Seattle, there are lots of Mother's Day outing options. But we’ve got our eye on the Museum of Flight where moms get in for free as a way to say thanks for all they do. Be sure to check out the museum's Weekend Family Workshop when you’re there. Kids can make a sweet keepsake for mom with a STEM focus. Families can also swing by the Seattle Art Museum to catch the latest exhibit—Our Blue Planet: Global Visions of Water—before it moves on at the end of the month. Hint: Lauren Halsey’s installation is also worth checking out when you visit. Treat mom to an afternoon of art and great eats, and don’t forget kids 14 and under are always free at SAM.
Bring mom to a game
Ben VanHouten/Seattle Mariners
She sits on the sidelines at every kids' sporting event known to humans, so it’s a total treat when families can sit together and enjoy game day from the stands. Three of Seattle’s most exciting sports teams are playing at home in Seattle on Mother’s Day weekend. Bring Mom to watch the Mariner’s take on the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday at T-Mobile Park. When you do, she’ll get a Mariner’s clear purse (for the first 10,000 moms in attendance) and kids (14 and under) can get a Mariner’s Bat Backpack as part of Little League Day at the game, too. Mom might also enjoy watching the Seattle Reign match against Louisville at Lumen Field on Sunday. Or if an early celebration is what you're after take Mom to watch the Seattle Storm play against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday night at Climate Pledge Arena. Go teams!
Soak up the scenery
Northwest Railway Museum
While a Mother’s Day hike at a local park is a great way to find a view on sunny day, families looking for a more relaxed approach to scenery seeking should check out the Mother’s Day train rides hosted by the Northwest Railway Museum. A great way to “blow off some steam,” families can board in either Snoqualmie or North Bend for the 90-minute round trip that passes by some of Snoqualmie Valley’s most picturesque scenery, including scenic Snoqualmie Falls. We’ll hope for clear skies and rainbows on your run.
Whip up something good to eat
courtesy PCC Markets
We heart programs that help kids plan something special for moms on Mother’s Day. Enter PCC Markets and two Kitchen Chemistry classes running the Friday and Saturday before Mother’s Day. Brunch is the theme of this in-person kids workshop (do you see where we're going with this?). When they are finished, kids will not only be able to make mom a special breakfast in bed, they’ll be able to do it like pros. If you've already got brunch covered, mom and the kids can sign up for a delish dumplings class in Bellevue on Sunday. You know what they say about the family that cooks together! They've got skills.
Eastside farms are making an outdoor Mother’s Day easy this year. It all starts with Kelsey Creek's Mother's Day on the Farm event that includes animal treats, goat walks and a special Mother’s Day surprise. Families can also add a little flower magic to their day when they sign up for the Mommy and Me in the Garden program at Farrel-McWhirter in Redmond. Blooms, animals and a sweet kid's craft are in store. Remember to register early for these popular events.
Laugh with mom
iStock
There’s no denying it takes a real sense of humor to be a parent. Prepare for some serious LOLs when you take mom to an improv comedy show at Post Alley. More than just “yo mama” jokes, the players at this all-ages show balance understanding the real struggles that come with parenting with poking fun at them too. The show is just an hour long (not too far past bedtime), so it’s an easy one to turn into a family outing, a low-key date night or a night out with your mom squad. Plus, moms get a discount on admission—no joke. Grab tickets while you can.
Sporty moms will flock to the Mother’s Day Half & 5K that gives racers the chance to run around one of the area’s most beautiful parks. The 5K is a great “first run” for newbies or folks running as a family. And the half might just bring mom a new PR on her special day. Moms can also run for a cause by registering for the Move4Mona 5K Challenge. Organized by a local mom, proceeds from this race are used to support educational efforts around the globe for all kids and empower women and girls, too. Sign up to race in Bellevue, Edmonds or your own ‘hood over Mother’s Day weekend.
Plan a mountain daycation
courtesy Suncadia
While spending Mother’s Day weekend at Suncadia Resort is a special treat, families can also plan a quick daycation to celebrate Mom. The day before the big day is when you should schedule your mountain adventure. That’s when families can shop the Mother’s Day Market at Nelson Farm or sign up for the tea party and craft class. There’s also an opportunity for Mom and a kiddo to learn a new skill like trout fishing, archery and hiking. All of these activities are open to guests and day visitors, but you will need to register. If you do make a staycation weekend of it, make your Mother’s Day brunch reservations at Portals and a spa treatment for Mom soon. Trust us, it's what mom really wants.
We’ll keep our fingers crossed for blue skies and sunshine, so you and the kids can fit in all the exciting events this weekend. We know many families will be looking for egg hunts and other activities to celebrate Easter. But before you do, head to the Washington State Spring Fair. Expanded for 2022, you’ll now have more chances to enjoy the tradition. Plus, every toddler’s favorite YouTube star rolls into town Friday night. Read on for our can’t-miss events.
Seattle
Washington State Spring Fair
It must be spring in Seattle because the annual Washington State Spring Fair is finally here. This year the Fair has expanded to include more days so you can have more fun with carnival rides, music, entertainment and, of course, fresh-made Fisher scones. All your favorites are back: The Farm at SillyVille, The Kids Zone, Monster Truck Rides and the Farm Fair. Plus, there are new exhibits and experiences to check out too, including Jungle Critters, Timberworks Lumberjack Show, a chainsaw carving competition and two kid-friendly performances to tickle your funny bone. Tickets required. Apr. 14-16 & 21-24. Event details
Kids Art Class
A magic art class for kids ages 8-14 is scheduled at the National Nordic Museum this weekend. Kids will draw, imagine and paint a fanciful toadstool home alongside artist, illustrator and storyteller, Willow Heath. Registration required. Sat. Event details.
Fin & Feather: Nature on the Waterfront
Seattle Aquarium and Seattle Audubon are teaming up for a seaside program that uncovers urban-dwelling wildlife in the air and sea of Puget Sound. Your mini marine biologists can learn how to look for invertebrates, birds and water-dwelling mammals at Pier 62, or you can join a guided one-mile walk to Pocket Beach for a closer look at wildlife along the Seattle waterfront. Please remember to dress for the weather. Sat. Event details.
Eastside
Blippi The Musical
Brace yourselves because toddlers all over Seattle are going to flip—Blippi The Musical is coming to town. Families will have two chances this weekend to see the YouTube star who brings the energetic and loveable character Blippi off the screen and onto the stage. In this live show kids will continue to learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along with their favorite streaming sensation. In addition to the Saturday event in Everett, families can catch Blippi on Friday night in Tacoma at the Pantages Theatre.Sat. Event details.
Spring Stroll
Spring is finally here, and with it comes lots of new plants and animals in Bellevue’s parks. Explore the season’s exciting new life, from the budding of trees to the re-emergence of all sorts of critters. Families will head out onto the trail with a park ranger to learn about this incredible season and end with a spring scavenger hunt to show off your newfound knowledge. Be sure to dress for the weather! Preregistration is required. Fri. Event details.
Egg Scramble
SeaTac Parks & Recreation is happy to offer an in-person Egg Scramble this year. This is a free and fun twist on the traditional Egg Hunt. Crafts, a face painter, balloon artists, goodie bags and of course, the Easter bunny will all be available to participants. Puget Sound Fire will also be on site, supporting the event with goodies and even a tour of the fire engine. Sat. Event details.
It was 1993––were you watching Boy Meets World every Friday night like we were? The classic 90’s show ran for seven season and unbelievably is now celebrating it’s 30th anniversary (and yes, you’re that old).
Danielle Fishel, Rider Strong, Trina McGee, Matthew Lawrence and Will Friedle all reunited this past week on Good Morning America and frankly, it’s the 90’s flashback we all needed. Noticeably absent was show runner Ben Savage, but we were able to survive with a cameo from one fave character we’ve been missing.
Does Mr. Feeney’s message have anyone else tearing up? The surprise appearance by William Daniels definitely had Danielle, Will and Rider wiping away tears.
The gang is back together due to 90’s Con, an all-out mishmash of our nostalgic shows coming together. The convention featured actors from Boy Meets World, Full House, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Charmed, All That, Party of Five and so, so many more. Remind us again why millennials think they’re the best?
When they’re not reuniting at conventions, the former cast of Boy Meets World continues to stay busy. Rider Strong hosts his own podcast, Literary Disco and Will Friedle has jumped on the bandwagon with a brand new show as well, I Hear Voices.
Danielle Fishel is now a mom of two and continuing to do acting and voice work. Trina McGee appears to have taken some time off from acting, but did anyone else not realize she realize she was a mom of three kids, in her 20’s while her character was a college freshman?!
Because Boy Meets World played such an integral role in our prime TV-watching years, we have to admit we’d be more than happy if the cast came together for another project in the future. Ben Savage shared that it would always be on the table, telling US Weekly, “I think that if the right project came along at the right time, and everyone was on board, I think it’d be a lot of fun. I think it’s a really nice group of people, and they’re a very talented group. I think if the right project came along, I think, we’d all be on board.”
