Just because you’re an adult it doesn’t mean your love of stuffies has to fall by the wayside, especially when it comes to getting something to snuggle up with on Valentine’s Day. Thankfully, Build-A-Bear has the market cornered when it comes to giving that special someone the perfect bear to say “I love you.”
Coined as “Build-A-Bear After Dark” in a hilarious post on the brand’s Facebook page, the collection is packed with both pre-stuffed and custom bears, bunnies, dogs and more that are styled in festive Valentine garb.
While you can definitely custom design your own plushie, Build-A-Bear has some great gift sets that have everything you need. We love the Teddy French Beret set that comes with an adorable outfit and bouquet, Pawelette Rosé over Roses set with wine glass and bottle of rosé and the Barkleigh Mixed Berry Seltzer set that comes in cute heart PJ’s and a can of seltzer (stuffed, of course).
Want to dress up your BAB? Choose from V-day options like heart pajamas, an “I want to take you out” T-shirt, a devil costume (rar!), an “I Love You” shirt and even a French Beret set.
Don’t forget the accessories! No bear is complete without a love eye mask or a red bouquet and red nail polish wristlet.
With Valentine’s Day approaching next week, you better be beary quick about getting your order in. Check out the Build-A-Bear website to see where you can get same-day delivery and even in-store pickup.
It’s a brand new year, so let’s think of all the things we can do to make it a fun adventure. Step into the world of Van Gogh in San Diego, inspire your mini-mogul to pitch an idea at the Kidpreneur Expo and catch as many live shows as you can. We’re looking forward to enjoying all the fun San Diego has in store for us in 2022.
Beyond Van Gogh Comes to San Diego
Immersive Van Gogh
It's finally here! You may have seen photos from Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience exhibit popping up on friends' social media over the last year as it debuted in other cities like San Francisco, Los Angles, and New York in 2021, and on January 14th it kicks off in San Diego. The visually-striking achievement invites audiences to step inside post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh’s most incredible works of art. This exhibit is only around until the beginning of March, so get your tickets reserved now. Event details.
Disney On Ice: Dream Big
Disney on Ice
The Magic of Disney (on ice!) is coming to San Diego. Sail away with favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Minnie, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Belle, Genie, and more highlighting all the magic and adventure of Disney’s tales through world-class figure skating. Event details.
Kidpreneur Expo
Calling all kidpreneurs! Mark your calendar for January 29th and start thinking of your most creative idea for a product or service. Kids in elementary (starting at age 5) through high school will have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the best pitch, best presentation, and more. Real-life investors will be on-site and kidpreneurs will have the opportunity to seek additional funding for investment. Workshops will be held throughout the day and led by small business owners and small business development experts. A fun chance for kids to embrace their passion, funnel their creative energy and show off their talents and skills. Event details.
We're so happy to see live shows return in 2022. San Diego's youth theater has a full lineup of shows in 2022 including The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical and The Jungle Book. See their full schedule here.
The Moonlight Amphitheater is promising its biggest lineup of broadway shows ever including a contemporary Cinderella and Memphis. For details and tickets, click here.
You’ve made your list. You’ve checked it twice. Now get shopping! This year, support local businesses and pick a gift from a store near you. Flip through our guide for ideas to get your brains churning.
For Your Favorite Water Bug: Swim Lessons with Goldfish
Outdoor pools are drained, but that doesn't mean the water play has to stop. Help keep kids in the swim of things through winter with the gift of swim lessons from Goldfish Swim School Chicagoland. They'll be unwrapping more than the usual present, they'll be unwrapping life lessons mixed with smiles and confidence that comes from progress and mastery. More importantly, they'll be building on water safety skills—a gift that can save lives.
Swimming is always in season at Goldfish, so get ahead of the Winter Blues and gift the Golden Experience! Holiday gift packages include free lessons, a special Goldfish towel, dry bag and in-school credit.
Cost: Packages vary by location Locations throughout Chicagoland. Visit goldfishswimschool.com for pricing and purchasing.
For Members-Only Access: Give the Gift of Membership to Chicago Favorites
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
If you're a super-fan of a particular museum, play space or attraction, maybe it's high time you became a card-carrying member. Along with scoring sweet perks like access to special events, discounts and free parking, you're helping an awesome family destination thrive. Often in the case of some of the biggies, after just two visits, the museum membership has paid for itself — and you can avoid those long admission lines. Read our story for the scoop on memberships you should consider gifting to your gang (or grandkids!) this holiday season.
For the Builders: LEGO Chicago & LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGO
No matter the age, LEGO appears at the tippy top of most Christmas lists. We have one that builders and Chicago lovers alike will love to add to their collections. This 444-piece Chicago skyline set features Willis Tower, the building formerly known as John Hancock Center, Big Red, Wrigley Building, DuSable Bridge and Cloud Gate (aka The Bean), finished off with a Chicago nameplate.
For the kid that can't get enough LEGO, consider an annual pass for the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Schaumburg, which has attractions for families that includes a Miniland, rides, a 4D cinema, a master builder workshop, an opportunity to build and race your own LEGO car and much more!
Cost: $204 for LEGO Chicago Skyline set on Amazon, $44.95+/person for annual pass LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago; Streets of Woodfield, 601 N. Martingale Rd.; Schaumburg; Online: legolanddiscoverycenter.com
For Showing West Town Pride: Holiday Bundles
Give the gift of West Town with a West Town Holiday Bundle, or split the items between loved ones on your 'nice' list. Three themed packages are available, each set features items from 5+ neighborhood favorites.
The Snow Day — The perfect collection to keep anyone comfy and cozy during a Chicago winter.
The Holiday Party — Show or share your West Town neighborhood spirit.
The New Year — Everything you need and want to kick off your "new year, new me" or "new year, same me" routine.
Annie from Vicinity Candles Etsy shop sells candles inspired by local Chicago neighborhoods, with scents like Lakeview, West Loop, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Gold Coast, Pilsen, Wicker Park and Hyde Park. Each includes an insert that provides a glimpse into the neighborhood history which led to the inspiration for the scent.
Whether you're parenting with a same-sex partner or want to show LGBTQ+ pride support, this colorful twist on a traditional black and white Chicago skyline print is a subtle way to start your tiny human down a path of inclusivity and kindness.
For Those Who'd Like an On-the-Go Snuggle Buddy: Pockimals
Pockimals is making getting dressed ridiculously adorable with their Pockimals. These tiny stuffed animals come equipped with buttons that secure them directly to their custom-designed clothing pockets making them impossible to lose. All items are organic and produced with soft cotton to ensure comfort and no-scratchiness happiness. This Chicago-based company is made up of a team of friends who wanted to create the best children's toy to enhance creativity and focus on the magic of childhood.
For a Fun Night Out: Sauced at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
Combine a fun night out with holiday shopping and support local artisans at Sauced: The Night Market Before Christmas at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel Dec. 9 & 10. The event will include more than 30 vendors, food options and a DJ. While you're there, stop into Happy's, the hotel's over-the-top Christmas pop-up bar.
Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Loop; Online: saucedmarket.com
For Celebrating Chicago's Favorite Street Food: Hot Dogs
It is never too early to teach kids the proper (Chicago) way to eat a hot dog, sans ketchup, of course. Have them slip into this adorable hot dog-themed shirt and then hit up your favorite hot dog stand in Chicago.
Raise your hand if you love a good puzzle! If you have your hand up, you'll love this 1,000-piece neon Neighborhood Map of Chicago puzzle. Puzzle-lovers get to learn more about the layout of our city while assembling the map.
Chicago design studio Transit Tees' storefronts offer hundreds of Chicago-inspired gifts designed by local artists for under $40, as well as dozens of $10 and $20 stocking stuffers. Gift box sets include multiple Chicago-themed games, home goods or apparel items with free gift-wrapping and free shipping.
Cost: $40 & below Locations in Wicker Park & Andersonville; Online: transittees.com
For the Book Worms: A Book by a Chicago Author
Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Chicago has a rich literary history and is home to so many award-winning authors covering every genre under the sun. Introduce your little bookworm to Chicago’s brightest and best authors with our list of kid-approved, classic and contemporary children’s books. From picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for advanced readers, these are the Chicago-authored tomes to add to your kid's bookshelf ASAP.
Shop local and show support for local businesses that navigated their way through the pandemic. Your kids have likely already penned their Christmas lists (and have checked it way more than twice) and we can guarantee all their biggest wishes can be granted on the shelves of a local Chicago toy store. Show love to your favorite neighborhood go-to toy store or venture out to discover a new-to-you gem!
For Music Lovers: Ben Tatar and the Tatar Tots' New Album
Ben Tatar
Fans of the Chicago kiddie music scene love Ben Tatar and the Tater Tots. Lucky for us, he's back with his second family album of delectable songs about food just in time for the holidays, Seconds, releasing Nov. 12. Kids will giggle when they hear this savory gastronomic extravaganza, jam-packed with tasty treats for the ears and the dance floor.
For Fans of Christkindlmarket: Shop In-Person or Virtually
Gallagher Way
Christkindlmarket — Chicago's take on a traditional German Christmas market — is back with locations in the Loop and Wrigleyville. Browse the goods in the market's signature wooden cabins topped with festive red-and-white-striped canopies, or visit Christkindlmarket's virtual shop. If you shop the Wrigleyville location, be sure to check out Gallagher Way's Winterland programming.
For Tweens: A Bit of Pampering at Oasis Face Bar
Oasis Face Bar
It's never too early to teach kids, boys or girls, the importance of a good skincare routine. Newly opened Oasis Face Bar in Lincoln Park is the perfect intro for tweens because it takes the facial out of the spa, making it more budget-friendly and less time-consuming than a traditional spa experience. Bonus: It's locally and woman-owned. Stop by and grab a gift certificate, and maybe some masks and fun face products, to slip in your favorite tween's stocking.
From now until Christmas, for every $100 gift card you purchase, you'll receive a "Facial in A Box". Each box provides everything needed for one or two at-home facials. Wrap it along with the gift card, or take a self-care pampering day for yourself.
Cost: Treatments for as low as $49 Oasis Face Bar, 2136 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park; Online: oasisfacebar.com
For the New Moms: Metta Baby Bucktown
Metta Baby
Give new or expectant parents the gift of a one-of-a-kind experience with their new baby! Metta Baby is Chicago's premier infant wellness studio with offerings including water stimulation, infant massage, baby yoga, parent/baby classes, music classes and more! You can check out their full class schedule here. The Metta Baby team is dedicated to promoting early developmental activities starting at two weeks that support motor, sensory, and cognitive skills while nurturing secure attachment between infants and their parents. The mission is to provide a solid socialization and support system for infants and their caregivers in the earliest stages.
Cost:Gift cards in various increments are available for purchase online or at the Bucktown location.
Metta Baby; 1921 N. Damen, Bucktown; Online: mettababy.com
While you’re racking up the savings over the next week, don’t forget the freebies! The team at BlackFriday.com has put together a stellar list of incentives that stores are offering around the holiday weekend. Whether you’re hoping to score a snowman cake or plush robe, read on for the details!
Ace Hardware
Get a free $10 Ace gift card as an Ace Reward member. You must buy a $50 Ace gift card between Black Friday, Nov. 26, through Nov. 28. There is a two-gift card limit, and this deal is exclusive for Ace reward members only.
Baskin-Robbins
On Black Friday starting at 1 p.m. ET, place a Baskin-Robbins order online using the code “SNOWMAN” for your chance to receive a free ice cream cake. Be sure to act fast for this deal since there are only 1,000 free Brrr The Snowman™ cakes up for grabs.
Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s
Get a free photo with Santa at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, reservation required. Learn more about how to make a reservation (and other safety precautions Bass Pro and Cabela’s are taking for Santa’s Wonderland this year).
Bed Bath & Beyond
Score a free $25 bonus gift card from Bed Bath and Beyond. Spend $125 on products online or in-store and you’ll receive a $25 gift card. This deal is valid from Nov. 25 to Nov. 27.
Belk
In-store shoppers will receive a free gift card in value ranging from $5 to $500. At every store, there will be four lucky $500 gift card winners. On Black Friday, Nov. 26 at 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. and on Saturday, Nov. 27 at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., in-store shoppers at Belk will receive the gift cards.
Big Lots
Get a free Winter Wonder Lane 140ct light mini set. Big Lots rewards members will receive a free mini light set when they shop in stores on Thanksgiving. The offer will be loaded automatically to your Big Rewards account.
Checkers and Rally’s
Enjoy a free large famous seasoned fries from Checkers. Download or present the free fries coupon at your local Checkers or Rally’s restaurant. The deal is valid from Nov. 26 to Nov. 28.
CVS
Get a free Maybelline Mascara Kit or Mini Sky High Mascara from CVS. Spend $30 or more on Maybelline cosmetics with your CVS care card (Limit one item).
Fleet Farm
Your kids will love a free plush toy from Fleet Farm. Be one of the first 500 customers at a Fleet Farm store on Black Friday. The doors open at 5 a.m.
Fred Meyer
Score a $20 coupon from Fred Meyer. You’ll need to spend $100 or more on home, apparel or electronics in a single transaction on Black Friday.
Kohl’s
You’ll receive $15 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent, plus score extra Kohl’s Cash on certain purchases during the Kohl’s Black Friday sale. You need to spend at least $50 on select purchases or buy an item eligible for Kohl’s Cash in the Kohl’s Black Friday sale.
Lowe’s
Grab a free $10 bonus e-gift card from Lowe’s. For every $100 or more you spend on an e-gift card, you’ll receive a $10 bonus e-gift card. The deal is online only and is valid from Nov. 25 to Nov. 26. The limit is two per household.
Macy’s
Get a free cosmetic pouch, duffle bag, tote bag, weekend bag or shower gel. Macy’s shoppers who buy select large fragrances can receive a free gift with their purchase.
Meijer
Free coupons from Meijer! The coupon automatically prints at checkout when you make select purchases.
Rite Aid
Receive $15 in bonus cash at Rite Aid. Spend $50 or more on eligible products in-store or online. The offer is valid from Nov. 25 to Nov. 27 and the coupon must be presented for in-store purchases. You can find the coupon on Rite Aid’s Black Friday Ad.
Anytime you can get a deal on LEGO kits is a parent’s dream come true.
While LEGO stores don’t tend to share their deals in advance, there are a few sneak peeks the brick maker is sharing, in addition to other retailers who are already marking down towns of products. Keep reading to get some early sale picks!
The only thing better than a snuggly pair of pajamas on a cold winter night is knowing that somewhere a child in need is staying warm too because of your good deed. The Carter’s Pajama Program is back this year to help keep kids across the country stay warm and cozy this winter.
Carter’s is celebrating the 12th year of its partnership with the incredible Pajama Program. Now through Dec. 24, 2021, customers can make a donation in-store at any Carter’s location or online to provide kids everywhere the comfort of new jammies.
The Pajama Program is a national nonprofit organization that promotes and helps to provide a comforting bedtime routine for children in need. In addition to your own contribution, Carter’s its continuing its tradition of donating 100,000 pairs of PJ’s. Since the partnership, the brand has donated over 2 million pajamas!
To make your donation online, simply click the monetary amount you’d like to donate on the checkout page when you place your order.
If you plan to donate in store after picking up your kiddos own jammies, simply let the cashier know upon checkout.
Build-A-Bear Workshop has teamed up with NYC-based kids fashion brand, Rockets of Awesome on a bear-y special collab.
Available now at Rockets of Pawsome, the line is made up of six styles packed with color. The best news? It comes in both kid and bear sizes!
Made with soft, comfy and machine washable fabrics, the Pawsome Collection includes a PAWSOME shirt, sequin matching skirt and jacket, blue jogger and a camo sherpa vest.
You can shop the collection online at rocketsofawesome.com and buildabear.com and in store starting Thur. Nov. 11. Prices range from $25 to $70 with discounts available when you order six or more items.
––Karly Wood
All photos: Courtesy of Build-A-Bear & Rockets of Awesome
You don’t have to wait until Black Friday to start your holiday shopping. This week, Target is kicking off its week-long “Holiday Best” deals with the best prices of the season.
Starting Sun. Oct. 31, Target is dropping weekly in-store and online sales that can be previewed Target’s digital weekly ad. Every Sunday a whole new batch of deals become available and will be marked with a “Holiday Best” sticker, guaranteeing its the best price this shopping season.
Even though it’s not Sunday yet, you can already get a peek at the deals running from Oct. 31 through Nov. 6 that include TV’s with Black Friday pricing and Beats Solo³ Wireless Headphones.
To make this week even more special, Target is adding even more deals Nov. 4-6! Be sure to head to the retailer in store or online and get goodies like a $5 Keurig K-Mini and up to 60% off select video games for Nintendo Switch, Xbox and PlayStation.
Don’t forget to check Target’s digital weekly ad every Sunday throughout the holiday season for the newest deals.
For the fifth straight year, Target is honoring veterans with its annual Military Appreciation Discount, and this year its better than ever!
From Oct. 31 through Nov. 13, the retailer is offering a 10 percent discount off two purchases (some exclusions apply) for eligible services members. In order to qualify, guests will need to register at Target.com and once they are deemed eligible, they will be issued a two-time use Target Circle offer to use in-store and online. photo: Courtesy of Target
Guests can also add a veteran or military family status to their Target Circle profile, which makes them eligible for bonus offers and vote on where Target’s community giving funds will go through the end of 2021.
Struggling with costume inspiration this year? Spirit Halloween to the rescue! The retailer just dropped 2021 costume trends that are wickedly good for both trick or treating and adult work parties.
Get the whole crew in on the fun with the Creepy Families theme, featuring broods from popular franchises. Spirit forecasts that Beetlejuice, Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Pocus, Corpse Bride and the Addams Family will be on trend this season.
Speaking of throwback entertainment, the ’90s are coming in hot! Specifically the shows of your childhood, like Teletubbies, Space Jam, Care Bears and Killer Klowns from Outer Space. It might be tricky to suit up in a full-blown Teletubby costume, but you might also win the night at your office party. Worth it?
But if there’s one thing the whole family can agree on, it’s that snacks are life. Why not put the “treat” in trick or treating? Spirit suggests searching out the Cheetos Flamin’ Hot costume, or you could dress up as an avocado, pickle, banana, PB&J or milk and cookies!
You can find all these looks online (or in store) at Spirit Halloween, the largest Halloween specialty retailer in the country. There are more than 1,425 locations nationwide and more opening every spooky season. The countdown is on to October 31!
