Hop on board the holiday season with these magical train rides in the San Francisco Bay Area that’ll keep your winter festivities on track

It’s the time of the year to start thinking about booking your family’s holiday train tickets. Sure, your winter schedule is already packed with experiences like picking out your Christmas tree or catching a merry show nearby. But the holiday trains are just waiting for you to jump on board. The magic of these festive rides—from twinkling lights to hot cocoa to Santa himself—will get the entire family in the spirit and could even become one of those traditional can’t-miss local events. However, holiday train rides in the Bay Area are super popular, so be sure to book early so you don’t miss out, and then get ready to bring on the cheer.

1. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train

It’s a true Californian Christmas when Santa is at the beach. St. Nick will join your family aboard this vintage Bay Area train decorated with thousands of lights. Once you embark on this 60-minute round trip, your family can enjoy refreshments, a holiday sing-along, and, of course, a visit from Santa. And the fun doesn’t stop when the train pulls back into the station. For just $7 you can purchase a pass to take advantage of the attractions and arcade at Neptune’s Kingdom.

Good to Know: There is also a Holiday Tree Walk where you can take a steam train from Roaring Camp’s Felton location to Bear Mountain and view a tree-lined walk of decorated trees. Stick around in town after the ride for winter-themed activities.

Dates: Nov. 25-26, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-23; Times vary. 
Cost: $44/adults; $33/children ages 2-12. Parking in lot across the street is $10.

Neptune’s Kingdom on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz
Online: roaringcamp.com

People walking by a train from Caltrain decorated with Christmas lights and festive displays like Nutcrackers and reindeer on the outside of the train.
Caltrain Holiday Train

2. The Caltrain Holiday Train

This train brings the holiday fun to you. A tradition since 2011, this free family event is a chance to check out special Caltrain cars decked out with over 70,000 glittering lights. The Holiday Train stops at nine Caltrain stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara. Come to one of the Bay Area stations to take in the beautiful train, listen to holiday entertainment, and bring a donation for Toys 4 Tots, as they will be collecting there. This is a great option for those looking to experience the magic of a Holiday train, without committing to an hour-plus ride. Not to mention, the price is right.

Good to Know: This is not a ride and no passengers are allowed on the holiday train. The public is invited to join in the celebration at each of the stations 30 minutes before the expected arrival time.

Dates: Dec. 3-4; Times vary
Cost: Free

Caltrain Stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara
Online: holiday-train.org

3. Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Holiday Train

The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad offers all of the holiday fun on a smaller scale. The sweet little open-air train winds through part of Vasona Park’s Fantasy of Lights spectacular. The 1.5-mile loop is just enough to get that festive fix and get to bed on time. If you’re up for a little more action after the ride, there are plenty more light displays in the park to check out, which aren’t visible from the train (a separate ticket is needed).

Good to Know: Dress warmly: The train is small (roller coaster-style seats) with no roof or windows. You can also walk or drive your car through Vasona Park to see the Festival of Lights. Avoid University Avenue when arriving: Take Los Gatos Boulevard to Blossom Hill Road and turn right into the Oak Meadow parking lot.

Dates: Thurs.-Sun., Dec. 8-30; 6-9 p.m.
Cost: $7/person for one train ride and one carousel ride. Children under age 3 ride free with a paying adult. 

Oak Meadow Park
233 Blossom Hill Rd. 
Los Gatos
Online: bjwrr.org

4. Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo

The Oakland Zoo transforms into a shining spectacle with hundreds of illuminated, larger-than-life lantern animals lighting the way on a mile-long journey. Ride both the gondola and express train and end the evening with Santa himself. New displays this year include creatures such as whales and otters from the California coastline and a walkabout with kangaroos and koalas from the land down under. 

Good to Know: This event often sells out so reserve your tickets in advance. Parking is free, children under 2 get in free and zoo members receive a 10 percent discount. Meet Santa from 6-9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday in November and every night Dec. 1-23. Animals will not be visible, as they’ll be in their night houses.

Dates: Nov. 16-23, 25-27, 30; Dec. 1-23, 26-31; Jan. 1-8, 11-15, 18-22, 19-23, 25-29; 5-9 p.m.
Cost: $24/adult; $20/child & seniors; under 2 free

Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd. 
Oakland
Online: oaklandzoo.org

5. Magical Christmas Train

The River Fox Train becomes the Magical Christmas Train as it chugs along a storybook wonderland. Santa's elves will be on board to join the passengers in holiday sing-a-longs and festive games. The one-hour train ride will include hot cocoa, a cookie, and an opportunity to send a letter to Santa.

Good to Know: A souvenir mug is included in the ticket price. Seating is assigned, so make a note when purchasing tickets if you want to sit with another party. Christmas jammies are encouraged.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18, daily Dec. 19-23; Times vary
Cost: $55/adults, $45/children ages 3-12, $10/ages 2 and younger

River Fox Train
18095 County Rd. 117
West Sacramento
Online: riverfoxtrain.com

santa on the back of a holiday train ride
Skunk Train

6. Christmas Tree Train

Travel through a storybook wonderland in the redwoods aboard a newly-imagined Christmas experience out of Willits on the Skunk Train. This two-hour journey takes you to Mr. Skunk's Giant Christmas tree, a decorated redwood along the line that Santa Mr. Skunk uses as a workshop. Come dressed in your finest holiday jammies and join in the holiday cheer. Seating is unassigned so board with your buddies if you'd like to sit together.

Good to Know: Purchase a copy of Skippy the TrainDeer for $7 when you order your tickets so that you can read along on the ride. While tickets are non-refundable, you may contact the Skunk Train at least 72 hours prior to your ride to reschedule or receive a voucher for another ride.

Dates: Nov. 26-27, 30; Dec. 2-4, 7, 9-11, 14, 16-23, 26-31; Times vary
Cost: $60/per person, $95/VIP seating, $11/dog

Willits Station
299 E. Commercial St.
Willits
Online: skunktrain.com

7. Western Railway Museum

Santa arrives at the museum in late November. There, he joins guests on one of the lovingly-restored rail cars for a 50-minute ride through the golden hills. Cookies and hot chocolate are included. The trains run during the day, so this is a great option for kids (and adults) who can’t stay up late.

Good to know: The train is usually comprised of one or two cars which run on electricity. So no giant locomotives here. There is a huge barn of rail cars in various stages of repair, which is super fun to check out before and after. The railway museum is all volunteer-run. Older kids will especially enjoy hearing the history of the trains and cars.

Dates: Nov. 26-27, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18; trains run every hour from 12-5 p.m.
Cost: $27/adults; $25/children/$12-$15 members

5848 State Highway 12
Suisun City
Online: wrm.org

8. California State Railroad Museum Polar Express

It’s like the pages of “The Polar Express” come alive on this one-hour journey. Many of the book’s characters join riders, including the Conductor, the Dancing Waiters, and the ghostly Hobo. It’s no wonder these tickets seem to sell out as soon as they’re available. Each coach and first-class car has a different theme, so you can book the exact one you want. All riders will get a magical first gift of Christmas from Santa—that beautiful silver bell.

Good to Know: Museum members get first crack at tickets for this wildly-popular event (remember that for next year), but it’s worth checking the website frequently as tickets are occasionally available as the museum processes returns. Commemorative photos with Santa are also available for purchase. No strollers on board; stroller parking area near the boarding platform.

Dates: Wed.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 21; 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Cost: $60/person for coach class; $80/person for first class; children under 2 are free if sitting on lap.

Central Pacific Passenger Station
930 Front St.
Sacramento
Online: californiarailroad.museum

9. The Napa Valley Wine Train Santa Train

They pull out all the stops each year, as the Wine Train fills with the sounds of the season. Guests will be treated to three all-new Jolly Journeys after they arrive at the station to cheerful carolers, a welcome cup of hot cider or cocoa, photo opportunities with Santa, and a merry mailing station for postcards to the North Pole. Jingle and mingle in Santa's Cookie Car, have a three-course kid-friendly dinner on the Gourmet Holiday Express, and indulge in 360-degree views of wine country from the Very Merry Vista Dome. It's a fun-filled, action-packed journey, suitable for all ages.

Good to Know: Make your reservations NOW. This train sells out very early. They'll be collecting new, unwrapped gifts for Napa foster children. Regular seating at a table, no booster seats available. Food and drink are available for purchase on the train, including a kid-friendly menu.

Dates: Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 1-23; departure at 6:10 p.m.
Cost: $95-$195/adults, $75-$105/children

The Napa Valley Wine Train Station
1275 McKinstry St.
Napa
Online: winetrain.com

10. Nevada Northern Railway Santa's Reindeer Flyer

If your holiday plans take you to Nevada, then you’ll want to grab a ticket aboard the Christmas Express Train that leaves from the town of Ely. Passengers aboard Santa’s Reindeer Flyer will enjoy a comfy ride in their pajamas with hot chocolate and cookies as they listen to the story of how this year’s Christmas Train came to be. Santa Claus himself will board the train and personally present each child their own special gift to remember the spirit of the season.

Good to Know: Discounts are available for military, AAA members, and groups of 12 or more. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis so arrive early. The train is pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive.

Dates:Various dates Nov. 19-Dec. 28; Times vary
Cost: $45/adults, $20/kids ages 4-12

Nevada Northern Railway Museum
1100 Ave. A
Ely, NV
Online: nnry.com

11. Polar Express Railtown 1897

***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***

Experience a Polar Express that is off the beaten track when you head up into the California foothills to Jamestown, a historic gold rush town perfectly preserved for your holiday photo backdrops. Head to the Jamestown 1897 Railpark where you can embark upon your official Polar Express train with several cars pulled by a vintage engine from Railtown 1897’s collection. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate and yummy cookies as they ride along to the North Pole, where the jolly old elf—Santa himself—will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleighbell, the “first gift of Christmas.”

Good to Know: Make it a weekend to remember and stay at the nearby Rush Creek Lodge and visit Yosemite.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18; 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $60/seat; children 2 and under (on laps) are free.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
10501 Reservoir Rd.
Jamestown
Online: railtown1897.org

12. Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights

***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***

The Niles Canyon Train of Lights is an extremely popular East Bay tradition. Volunteers meticulously adorn all of the train cars with twinkling lights, garlands, and bows—inside and out. Santa and Mrs. Claus make the rounds as the train winds through the canyon wilderness. Sit in an open-air car to get the best view of the decorations outside (or just go out for a peek as the train rounds one of the bends). A concession stand offers treats like cookies and cocoa but families are also allowed to bring their own refreshments.

Good to Know: Get your tickets early: This event is very popular and sells out quickly. They sell some day-of at the station, however, so get there early if you haven’t booked or check for cancellations online. The ride lasts a little over an hour and runs rain or shine. No strollers are allowed on board.

Dates: Wed., Fri.-Sun., Nov. 18-Dec. 28 (except Dec. 24 & 25); train departs Niles at 4:30 p.m. and Sunol at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $35/person, $65/person in the first class dome (children 3 and under are free if on a lap)

Niles Station
37029 Mission Blvd.
Fremont

Sunol Station
6 Kilkare Rd. 
Sunol
Online: ncry.org

 

Heads up: Father’s Day is on its way. Looking for a gift idea that goes beyond a tie or some whisky stones? Taking a page from our Mother’s Day Gift Guide, we’re recommending experiences over things for Father’s Day in NYC. (Which is also Juneteenth this year.) From activities to do as a family to fun or adventurous outings for dad and partner or friend, here are ways to let the dad in your life know he’s the main man. For more fun this month see our favorite June events for families (many are free and consider heading out to pick some cherries, because now is the time to do it!

family a wave hill on Father's day
Joshua Bright

Picnic & Make a Tree Sculpture at Wave Hill
Enjoy the very rare opportunity to picnic on the Wave Hill House Lawn (bring your own blanket and/or folding chairs), or, if you purchase a picnic from Great Performances, in Armor Hall. (Limited space is available in Armor Hall, on a first-come, first-served basis.) You can also bring your own feast or buy a salmon lunch from Great Performances. (There’s a special meal for kids seven and under.) Reservations are required by end-of-day Tuesday, June 14. The weekend’s family art project is a tree sculpture to celebrate a father figure in your life, which you can personalize as a special gift to hold photographs or drawings. (Art project is free with admission.)

Sun. June 19, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Tickets: $12/adults; $6/kids six and older. free/kids under 6
4900 Independence Ave.
Bronx
718-549-3200
Online: wavehill.org

deck at huttopia adirondacks glamping
Huttopia

Gift Dad Some Glamping at the New Huttopia Adirondacks
Located just outside of Lake George on 275 acres of serene woodlands, Huttopia Adirondacks hits that sweet spot between roughing it and over-the-top glamping. Fully-outfitted campsites feature wood-and-canvas tents with a deck for lounging, a firepit and picnic table. Head to the main Lodge to take a dip in the heated swimming pool, see some live music, take part in activities such as yoga and candle-making, or play some ping pong or foosball. The on-site bistro serves fresh bites like crepes (Huttopia’s founders are French), pizza, smoothies and more, and there’s even a kid’s club to keep the kids entertained if you want some downtime. For more fun, options include hitting the hiking trails of Adirondack Park, white-water rafting and visiting nearby Saratoga Springs and Lake George.

Rates start at $120/night
1571 Lake Ave.
Lake Luzerne, NY
518-223-8666
Online: huttopia.com

Juneteenth Unityfest

Celebrate with a Free Celebrate Brooklyn! Concert
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! presents a free concert on June 19, Juneteenth Unityfest, with performances by some of the world’s leading gospel artists, including Tye Tribbett, Deborah Cox, Israel Houghton, Mali Music and others.  The event will celebrate themes of inspiration, faith, and fatherhood in Black culture and beyond.

Sun., June 19, 6:30 p.m.
Lena Horne Bandshell
Prospect Park
Online: bricartsmedia.org

Give Him a City Brew Tour
City Brew Tours offers an Underground Brooklyn Brewery Walking Tour or a Brewing in Queens Walking Tour. Each tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes VIP access to three breweries, beer sampling, a snack, brewery swag and a knowledgable local guide to boost his beer IQ. Book a date or get him a gift card to choose his own.

Tickets: $79/person and up
Online: citybrewtours.com

father's day paintings

Visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan to See Inside Art & Make Pop-Up Cards for Dad
A brand new edition of Inside Art: Create, Climb, Collaborate opens June 18. The show encourages children to discover powerful tools of self-expression and new ways of seeing everyday spaces. Immersive site-specific installations by Isidro Blasco, Aya Rodriguez-Izumi, and BARarchitekten, and dynamic activations by CMOM’s inaugural roster of New York-based artists-in-residence, help early learners to build critical social, emotional, and motor skills as they explore, touch, and even contribute to museum-quality works of contemporary art.
On Father’s Day, kids can create a rad card that really pops for a Pop, Papa, Dad, Dada or someone special.

Sun., June 19
Tickets: $15/kids and adults; $12/seniors, free/infants and members
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
212 W. 83rd St.
Upper West Side
212-721-1223
Online: cmom.org

Do Father’s Day the CAMP Way
Head to CAMP in Hudson Yards or Columbus Circle for some cool crafting, a Father’s Day photo, a sweet treat (and some really cool gift items, too). Reserve tickets in advance.

Tickets: $40/kid; $2/adult
CAMP Columbus Circle
10 Columbus Circle
Online: camp.com

CAMP Hudson Yards
20 Hudson Yards
Online: camp.com

Mimi O’Connor

Jam at Brooklyn Bowl’s Rock And Roll Playhouse
This popular series bringing cool tunes to kids plays Bob Marley to celebrate Father’s Day and Juneteenth. Then stick around for Family Bowl!

Tickets: $15/person for Rock & Roll Playhouse
Sun., June 19
61 Whythe Ave.
Williamsburg
Brooklyn Bowl
Online: brooklynbowl.com

Crowd at forest hills Stadium
Forest Hills Stadium 

Help Dad Relive His Indie Cool Days
We loved this for moms, too. Take dad to one of the nicest concert venues in the city, Forest Hills Stadium. Tucked into this leafy neighborhood of Queens (shows end early because of a noise ordinance), there’s not a bad seat in the house, and they consistently book great acts. An indie-splosion is coming to Forest Hills, including artists such as Phoebe Bridgers, Fleet Foxes, The Lumineers and the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs. Also: the amusingly irascible Bill Burr. Take his experience up a notch and add the “Golden Apple Premium Experience” to his ticket for $99. Benefits include exclusive access to the backstage lounge at Forest Hills Stadium, two complimentary beverages, access to a private cash bar in the backstage lounge, private restrooms and early entry into the backstage lounge one hour before doors open to the general public. If that’s not fancy enough for you, consider booking a “Speakeasy Suite.”

Online: foresthillsstadium.com

See Onward at the Queens Botanical Garden (On Saturday)
Celebrate the night before at QBG with a dad film from Disney, and crafting a paper mushroom house and Father’s Day card.

Sat., June 19, 7 p.m.
Tickets: $17/adults; $15/kids; free/kids under 3, $55/family of four
43-50 Main St.
Flushing
718-886-3800
Online: queensbotanical.org

family ziplining
Adventure Park at Long Island

Climb at The Adventure Park at Long Island
Take dad to The Adventure Park at Long Island, where through a “Buy One Get One Free” promotion, he can climb for free on Father’s Day. You’ll have three hours to tackle your choice of 14 trails and 49 ziplines. To book, head to the park’s website and enter code “Father’s Day BOGO” or call 631-983-3844.

Tickets: $64/14 and up, $54/seven to 13
Fri.-Sun, April 1-June 16; Daily, June 20-Sept. 5
Adventure Park at Long Island
75 Colonial Springs Rd.
Wheatley Heights, NY
613-983-3844
Online: myadventurepark.com

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Hot days call for cold treats, and there’s no time like the present to swap out your go-to Otter Pops for a new dessert that’s perfect for kids. From delicious frozen cookie dough bites to oat-milk chip ice cream, we’ve found a few new products to infuse a little fun into your llife. Keep reading to see them all.

Click here to save this list on Pinterest.

Home Dough

It's pretty much everyone's dream to have frozen cookie dough ready to pop in the oven for a warm treat. Home Dough totally gets that convenience is key and delivers in the taste category as well. With Home Dough, fresh-baked, better-than-homemade cookies are always just ten minutes away. Choose from Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Toffee, or Molasses Ginger Spice, all made from tried and true, mom-approved recipes and the same simple ingredients you’d find in your cupboard. They even come in gluten-free varieties! We suggest you order up a variety pack and try them today! 

$18 for 8 cookie balls, $48 for a 24-ball variety pack. Available here

Enlightened Sundae Cones

Sundae cones are what summer is made of and Enlightened is here to bring this favorite treat to your home with less sugar than regular cones. You'll get a crunchy cone filled with frozen Green yogurt or light ice cream and topped with nuts and chocolate. A final surprise? The chocolate-filled tip is there for your last bite. Order them online or find them at a store near you

Killer Creamery's Sammies

courtesy Killer Creamery

For a treat that doesn't have a lot of sugar but tons of taste, we love the new Sammies from Killer Creamery. Offered in chocolate or vanilla ice cream with the classic cookie outside, with only 120 calories, no added sugar and only two to three net carbs, you'll feel just fine having one after dinner! 

Available at stores nationwide, $5.99 - $6.99 for six. 

Bubbies Vegan Mochi & Cookie Dough Bites

Bubbie's

Two new options from Bubbies will get you starting the summer off right.

  • The irresistible combination of ice cream wrapped in a decadent chocolate chip cookie dough is easy to eat—and even easier to enjoy! Like all Bubbies products, the Cookie Dough Bites are made with all-natural ingredients, are Certified Gluten-Free, Kosher dairy, no rBST, and Non-GMO!
  • Those looking to add a vegan treat to their dessert lineup will love these new additions to Bubbies mochi repertoire. You'll find mango, chocolate and strawberry vegan mochi that enrobe the non-dairy frozen dessert in perfectly sweetened mochi dough. 

Available here

Daiya’s Dessert Bars

Daiya’s Dessert Bars make for the perfect treat for a hot day. These indulgent, chocolate-dipped, frozen dessert bars are completely plant-based and so tasty, parents will want to keep them for themselves!

Get them here

Nubocha

If you want indulgent taste without the guilt, Nubocha is here for you. This low-sugar, non-dairy gelato brand was co-founded by famed Italian chocolatier Gianluca Franzoni, and it is reimagining gelato with health and wellness in mind.

Its low-sugar, dairy-free recipes consist of just three main ingredients: premium varietals of nuts or cacao, pure spring water, and allulose, a rare, zero calorie sugar found naturally in foods like raisins, figs and maple syrup. The simplicity of Nubocha’s recipes and its unique use of spring water as a base, allow each thoughtfully sourced ingredient to shine, offering a healthier, flavorful gelato with no added sugar and less than 350 calories per pint. 

Order here

Beckon Ice Cream Cups

Beckon Ice Cream’s lactose-free ice cream is the perfect cold dessert for your summer gatherings. They just released perfectly-sized snack cups in flavors vanilla (with rainbow sprinkles in the lid), dark chocolate (with brownie chunks in the lid) and mint chip. These portable cups are a great option to bring in your cooler for your next park picnic. 

Shop online or find Beckon in a store near you. 

ReThink Ice Cream

If you love ice cream but it doesn't necessarily love you, ReThink has you covered. All of ReThink’s ice cream flavors are made with A2/A2 Dairy to be extra digestible. They're diabetic-friendly, Keto, gluten-dree, lactose-free, and made with all-natural ingredients including collagen, prebiotic fiber, and green tea extract for antioxidants.

We sampled the current flavors of Vanilla Supreme, Chocolate Majesty, Mint with Chocolate Flakes, Chocolate with Almond Butter, Coffee Hazelnut, Lemon Poppy Seed, Cardamom Pistachio, Almond with Chocolate Flakes, and Black Cherry Vanilla. Chocolate Majesty stood out as the kid favorite while Lemon Poppy Seed was much loved by the adults. 

Find ReThink at a store near you

Must Love

Attention, your new summer obsession is here! Check out Must Love—a new non-dairy, GMO-free, plant-based ice cream that will be the perfect addition to your freezer stash. Must Love is now available at Sprouts and select Whole Foods stores, with wider distribution ahead! Must Love offers two different bases: bananas and oat milk. The banana base is made with only bananas, coconut milk and dates while the oat milk base with only oat milk, coconut milk and dates. Cashew Cookie Dough is a kid favorite and Choco Choco Chip is for all you chocolate lovers out there. 

Coconut Bliss Cups of Joy

If you are looking for a plant-based frozen dessert to add to your freezer this summer, you definitely need to try Coconut Bliss. The brand’s first ever single serve ice cream indulgence, Cups of Joy, are perfect for kids (and their parents) looking for a convenient and delicious plant-based treat. The cups are available in two flavors, Dark Chocolate and Madagascan Vanilla Bean. The four-pack retails for $8.99.  

Want a little hands-on fun for your family's dessert? Coconut Bliss’s at-home ice cream machine, the Bliss Maker™, brings their convenient plant-based scoops directly to your home. Order up the bundle and you'll also get ice cream mix that's ready to pop in the machine! 

N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream

Amazon's #1 ice cream N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream has expanded its vegan line to include four new flavors that you're going to love: Vanilj Bean, Strawbär Kräm, Hazelnöt Fudge and Peanöt Butter Fudge.

Perfect for your summer sundae party, these flavors are joining the line up that tastes and melts just like dairy, but is still lactose and animal-free thanks to Perfect Day technology. Perfect Day’s real milk protein is made without animals, so kids can enjoy the real taste, texture, and nutrition of dairy—but produced sustainably and without the downsides of factory farming, lactose, hormones, or antibiotics. A dessert that you can feel good serving your family! 

Buy them at nicks.com

Simply Indulgent from Outshine®

Your fave Outshine bars are getting some new flavors! Made with fresh milk for that creamy goodness, each bar contains five grams of protein, 25% less sugar than regular frozen dairy bars and four delicious flavor choices. Enjoy Strawberry and Mango, which are made with real fruit, in addition to Chocolate and Coffee, which offers 20mg of caffeine!

Available at retailers nationwide starting Spring of 2021.

Turkey Hill's 2021 Lineup

Get ready to sit down and cool off with Turkey Hill's new line of novelties that include 16 products like Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches, Fruit & Cream Bars and Layered Sundae Cups. With flavors that include Caramel Brownie, Chocolate Cream Pie, Peanut Butter, Choco Mint Chip, Coconut, Orange and Strawberry Lemonade there is something for everyone.

You can find all the new products at retailers nationwide.

So Delicious Dairy Free Light Frozen Desserts

So Delicious Dairy Free has just launched its brand new Light Frozen Desserts! Each pint is less than 330 calories and they are certified gluten-free, vegan action certified and non-GMO Project Verified. Current flavors include Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Cocoa Chip, Mint Chip and Tiramisu.

Available in grocery stores nationwide for a suggested retail price of $5.49 per pint.

Popsicle Fruit Twisters

Popsicle's newest sweet treat combines real fruit and milk. The twisty popsicle has a surprise fruit filling and is just 70 calories each. Enjoy two fresh flavors that include Strawberry, Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl and Peach, Raspberry & Vanilla Swirl.

Available at Target for $4.99

Mochidoki Mochi Ice Cream

Mochidoki

Talk about the perfect bite! These mochi-covered ice cream bites from Mochidoki are a new favorite summer treat with kid- and parent-approved flavors like vanilla chip, Thai tea, mango and salted caramel. At just 80 calories a piece, they are full of quality, natural and non-GMO ingredients, and are less messy than typical ice cream treats. They are currently available for purchase at their NYC stores and can be shipped to 26 states plus D.C. (with more to come). 

Purchase yours here

Sweet Nothings Frozen Smoothie Cups

Each one of these 3.5 ozs cups is filled with healthy ingredients like chia and flax seeds and organic fruits. There are no artificial flavors, they are dairy and gluten-free and they come frozen, so each one is perfect for a snack at any time. Chocolate and strawberry were our favorite flavors! 

Available at eatsweetnothings.com, $3.99 a cup for 12. 

Gelato Boy Limited Release

What's better than gelato delivered to your front door? New gelato flavors created each month and delivered to your front door! Each month has a theme based on the season, or collaborations or whatever strikes their fancy. Think watermelon, banana split, root beer float and more. 

Available at gelatoboy.com, $12.

Organic Ice Wands from DeeBee's Organics

DeeBee's Organics

Kids will flip over these Organic Ice Wands featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf from Frozen 2 and the plant-based Organic SuperFruit Freezies that were released from DeeBee's just in time for the summer heat. DeeBee's Organics shelf-stable freezies are made from premium organic fruits with zero added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and are allergen-free of nuts, dairy, fish, wheat and soy. You can feel good serving them every afternoon this summer!

Get yours here and here

Chloe’s Oatmilk Pops

Officially the first oat milk pop available, Chloe’s Pops come in three tasty flavors: Mint Chip, Salted Caramel and Raspberry Chip. All three flavors are dairy-free, plant-based, Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free and made without any artificial ingredients. Also, these oat milk pops are free of the top eight allergens. 

Click here to see where they're available near you.

Talenti Coconut Chocolate Cookie

courtesy Talenti

Inspired by a coconut macaron, this flavor from Talenti is not just a non-dairy alternative, but it’s got layers of goodness, including real coconuts, chocolate cookies and a non-dairy hot fudge swirl. 

Available at Target, $4.69.

Chloe’s Marvel Pops

courtesy Chloe's Pops

Another fun treat from Chloe’s is their Marvel Pops! Inspired by Marvel Universe, these fruit popsicles are made with just three ingredients: fruit juice, cane sugar and water! Perfect for a backyard treat, these new pops are free of the top eight allergens.

Click here to see where they're available near you

—Gabby Cullen with Kate Loweth

 

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Fresh Grocery Pickup Is Rolling Out at Target Stores Nationwide

If 2020 taught us anything, it was to have a stockpile of healthy snacks for kids ready at home when the hangries strike. Fuel up with these low- or no-sugar store-bought snacks for kids that will boost their brain power and give them the energy they need to play and learn. From brand-new snacks just released in 2021 to healthy snacks we always have in our pantry, read on for the best new store-bought snacks to stock up on now.

Spudsy Sweet Potato Fries

Those misshapen sweet potatoes aren't going to waste! Spudsy take them and upcycles them into a plant-based snack the whole family will love! The brand's Sweet Potato Fries are grain and gluten-free, non-GMO, plant-based and come in three flavors including Hot Fry, Vegan Ranch Fry and Cheese Fry. While you're shopping, be sure to pick up a few of our other faves, cinnamon churro and Bangin' Bar-B-Q sweet potato puffs!

Available at spudsy.com, Amazon and select Kroger stores.

Love, Corn

These are not your Corn Nuts of the 90's! Love, Corn products are gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, kosher and come in so many delicious flavors. New this year, Vegan Cheezy makes the perfect, guilt-free snacks for moms and a great addition to school lunches.

Find Love, Corn at Kroger retailers, lovecorn.com and Amazon.

Yumi Fruit Leathers

Perfect for toddlers, big kids and even busy moms, Yumi's fruit leathers come in mixed berry, mango and strawberry flavors. Kids will get a full serving of fruit and vegetables with no added sugar in each strip!

Get them here.

Brainiac Foods

Don't just eat, feed your brain! Brainiac's new products include Brain SqueezersBrain Butters and Smart Tubes & Smoothies that pack a proprietary blend of brain nutrients including Omega‑3s and Choline and are Gluten Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, have no added sugars or artificial flavors and are approved by pediatricians. Did we mention they taste great, too?

Get them here.

RW Garcia Organic Everything Crackers

Get all the things you love about an Everything bagel in a thin, tasty cracker! RW Garcia's delicious snack is organic, verified non-GMO, gluten free, kosher and is made with corn, seeds, garlic and onion.

Find them at local grocers nationwide.

KIND Bar Minis

KIND Minis pack massive taste into 100 calories or less, with choices like Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew and Peanut Butter. Kids will love adding them to their lunchbox rotation and you can feel good that they are getting some good nutrition in at snack time. 

Get them here

Good Crisp Cheese Balls

Yes, you can still have your tasty cheese balls and eat them too! The Good Crisp just turned your guilty pleasure into a healthy snack with no fillers, artificial flavors, gluten or GMO's. On top of that, they've added Wellmune, which helps support your kiddos immune system.

You can purchase at thegoodcrispcompany.com, Sprouts and more retailers soon.

GoGo squeeZ AlmondBlend Pudding

Make packing that sweet snack a breeze with GoGos squeeZ brand new AlmondBlend Pudding! The plant-based pouch offers 5 grams of protein and 30% less sugar as compared to traditional dairy pudding so no guilt required.

You can buy the new pouches at gogosqueez.com and Target.

Famous Amos Wonders from the World

The Famous Amos brand is being reimagined for today’s world with three new cookies. While sticking with its bite-sized shape that people know and love, Famous Amos is shaking things up by introducing three new recipes with premium ingredients from around the world including:

  • Belgian Chocolate Chip: An elevated classic chocolate chip cookie with authentic Belgian chocolate
  • Philippine Coconut and White Chocolate Chip: A bite-size variety with coconut from the Philippines
  • Mediterranean Hazelnut and Chocolate Chip: A bite-size variety with hazelnuts from the Mediterranean

Get them here or in a store near you. 

Hungry Buddha Lemon Blueberry Bars

These Lemon Blueberry Bars from Hungry Buddha are the perfect combo of zesty lemon with the sweetness of juicy berries all in one delicious, vegan, plant-powered and allergy-friendly snack bar. These gluten free, Non-GMO bars are packed with 10g of protein and only 2g of sugar, and are made without the use of palm oil, sugar alcohols, dairy or soy. Pick these up at your local Sprouts Market for $2.49.

Catalina Crunch

Catalina Crunch, the makers of delicious keto-friendly cereals and cookies, just released a brand new Crunch Mix that features protein, fiber and specially curated natural ingredients in four delectable flavors: Traditional, Cheddar, Creamy Ranch and Spicy Kick. Each variety is made with the same delicious taste and crunch of your favorite party mixes and features a delicious mix of Catalina Crunch cereal, vibrant seasonings, nuts, chickpea pretzels and (depending on the flavor) cheese crisps. We love to keep these in the car for impromptu park days and hiking trips. 

Purchase here

Perfect Bar Snack Size

Perfect Bar to the rescue! The new snack size is perfect for kiddos and now comes in Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter. Made with organic peanut butter and organic honey, 20+ organic superfoods and six grams of whole food protein, these petite bars make the ideal lunch or after-school snack.

Get them in the refrigerated sections of Target, Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway and retailers nationwide for $6.99 for an eight count box.

Undercover Snacks

Healthy ingredients… in disguise! Developed by a mom whose two daughters were diagnosed with celiac disease, all Undercover Snacks are made with carefully sourced all-natural, gluten-free, non-GMO, simple ingredients and Rain Forest Alliance Certified chocolate.

Undercover Snacks are made with crispy quinoa, which is naturally gluten-free, packed with protein, fiber and nutrients, and has an incredible crunchy texture. They are made in a dedicated facility that is free of the top ten food allergens. For lunchboxes, tuck one of their single-serve packs in as a treat! 

Get them here

Without a Trace Foods

Looking for healthy, allergy-friendly snacks to pack in your kid's backpack or lunchbox that are free from the top 8 allergens? Look no further! Developed by a mom whose children have severe food allergies, Without a Trace offers a mouthwatering variety of plant-based, gluten-free Chewy Granola Bars, Power Bites and Cookies. They are perfect for tucking in lunchboxes or as a grab-n-go snack for everyone in the family. 

Get them here

Thinful Guiltless Snack Mix

peanut butter popcorn mix

A sweet, popcorn-based treat without all the extra added sugar? Yes please! Just a 1/2 cup clocks in at 60 calories and 2 grams of sugar thanks to their all-natural sweeteners. Now you can feel good about treating the kids without any of the guilt. 

Get them here.

Dick and Jane Educational Snacks

Make snack time fun and educational! Dick and Jane's educational snacks are all-natural, non-GMO and 100% nut-free. Each pack is made with crackers imprinted with learning opportunities like spelling, abbreviations and more. Varieties currently include States & Capitals, Presidents, English & Spanish, Food & Nutrition, Fun & Fitness and Farmers Market.

Get them here, $25 for 30 variety pack

KRAVE Zero Sugar Jerky

KRAVE recently introduced a new Zero Sugar Jerky line that marries grass-fed beef with all the flavor and none of the sugar. Your kids will love the two new flavors: Sonoma Style BBQ and Southwest Hatch Chile. KRAVE Zero Sugar Jerky perfects bold flavor and tender texture for a snack that delivers on taste and nutrition—both 100% grass-fed beef jerky flavors have 12g of protein, 0g of sugar and only 1.5g of fat per serving.

KRAVE Zero Sugar Jerky is available now in select CVS stores nationwide and online at kravejerky.com, with availability in Meijer, Kroger and on Amazon coming soon.

Belgian Boys

Belgian Boys make delicious non-GMO European sweets and you're going to want to stock up on them for your next road trip. Kids will especially love the speculoos cookies that come in the too-cute mustache shape and the Belgian chocolate cookie bars (hide these, you'll want them for yourself). Try their frozen breakfast items like waffles and bite-sized pancakes for on-the-go munching.

Find them here or at a store near you

Brave Good Kind Tender Chicken Bars

Up your protein game this year with these in your backpack. Perfect for a day at the beach or a hiking adventure, these jerky bars are the savory treat your crew needs. Hot Honey is our favorite with its sweet kick. Tender Chicken Bars also come in teriyaki and original flavors. 

Get them here

Pure Batch

Plant-based eaters, listen up! Pure Batch has grab-and-go cookie batches that include four types of truffles, a protein brownie and  refrigerated-to-eat cookies. You'll love knowing that you are feeding your body with something nutritious while also enjoying a sweet treat. 

Get them here

2Betties

2Betties creates dairy-free, nutrient-dense mini donuts with no refined sugars. We love them for a hiking treat to motivate the kids to keep going! They are currently offered in six delicious flavors: Chocolate Chunk, Maple Cinnamon, Sweet Almond, Mocha Chip, Vanilla Bean, and Pumpkin Spice. Hide the wrapper and your guests will think you’re an expert donut maker.

Get them here or find them in a store near you, $2.99. 

DINO BARS

Developed by parents, DINO BARS are the healthy, travel-friendly bar that your kids will love eating. They are wrapped in edible paper and available in three fun flavors: strawberry, blueberry, and mango. Parents will love that they are non-GMO, USDA certified organic and free from nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy. 

Get them here.

Horizon Organic's Yogurt Pouches and Cultured Dairy Smoothies

Horizon Organic's newest offerings from their Growing Years line include a yummy dairy smoothie and yogurt pouches. The dairy smoothie comes in a small container that's perfect for school lunches or a quick snack. We also love that these new snacks were developed with the help of a pediatrician, so you'll know your kids are getting great nutrition. 

Available at Target, $4.99 for a 4-pack & up. 

RIND Skin-On Dried Fruit

Sink your teeth into RIND’s new Skin-In Dried Fruit snacks! The chewy, tasty snacks have no added sugar and 4-6g of fiber per serving. Because the skin is still on, kiddos will get more vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber than other dried fruit brands. Not only that, they are non-GMO project verified, Kosher certified, allergen-friendly and gluten-free. We love all the flavors that include Tropical Blend, Straw-Peary, Orchard, Tangy Kiwi, Coco-Melon and Coconut Crisps.

Get them here.

Seapoint Farms Mighty Lil’ Lentils

Enjoying lentils never tasted so good! Perfect to enjoy by the handful or tossed on a salad, these salty snacks pack plant-based protein, are gluten-free and have vegan options. Choose from Pink Himalayan Salt, Barbeque, Falafel and Cinnamon Sugar.

Get them here.

Quinn

Quinn is known for making crazy delicious and totally craveable pretzels and microwave popcorn using only 100% REAL, simple ingredients and kicking artificial ingredients and unpronounceables to the curb. We love the maple almond butter filled pretzels for family hikes and the whole grain sea salt pretzel sticks for school lunches. 

Get them here

Supernola

For on-the-go snacking that you can count on to be free of junk, look to Supernola. These superfood clusters come in Triple Berry Vanilla, Dragon Fruit Lemon Zest, Honey Sweet Goji, Banana Nut Crunch, and Dark Chocolate Nut Crunch. Supernola fits many specialty diets including Paleo, Keto (4 flavors), Vegan (4 flavors), and is naturally dairy, gluten, grain, peanut and refined sugar-free.

Get them here.

Tia Lupita Tortilla Chips

Chips made out of cactus? Just say YES to Tia Lupita! These grain-free chips come in flavors like sea salt (our favorite), salsa verde, hot sauce, and chipotle, you'll definitely find one that you love. 

Get them here

Clio Less Sugar Yogurt Bars

The world's first Greek yogurt bar wrapped in chocolate has two new flavors! Delicious enough to pass for dessert, the Coconut and Berry Açaí treats are just 100 calories, contain one gram of sugar and pack eight grams of protein.

The two newest flavors are available exclusively at Whole Foods and you can find the others by visiting cliosnacks.com.

Raisels Pick-Your-Mix

Raisels, the creators of the fun-flavored Golden Raisins, has just launched the perfect way to get the flavors you want sent right to your door. The new Pick-Your-Mix option will allow you to mix-and-match delicious Raisel packs to create a perfect, custom Raisels box. Choose from among 7 options to bring the sweet, sour and slightly-spicy Raisel flavors to you. We love these as an alternative for kids who love sour candies—they won't know they're really eating fruit! 

Bobo's Almond Brownie Oat Bars and Bites

Bobo's Oat Bites

Bobo's is back with new whole grain snacks! Get ready to let kiddos sink their teeth into gluten-free whole grain oats, cocoa, chocolate chips and chocolate almond butter in the new almond brownie oat bars and bites. Not only that, choose from brand new strawberry and apple stuff'd oat bites for a fruity snack that keeps you full.

Available here

Solely Organic Whole Fruit Gummies

Solely's new Organic Whole Fruit Gummies contain only two or three ingredients, real whole fruit and a little Vitamin C. Every pouch offers 0.7 ounces of fruit, is only 60-70 calories and has no added sugar, preservatives, gelatins, colors, or gums. They're also USDA organic, Kosher, and Non-GMO verified. Choose from Organic Mango and Organic Mango & Orange flavors!

Available exclusively at Whole Foods Market.

LesserEvil Lil' Puffs

We'll just come out and say it: these new snacks from LesserEvil are so delicious you'll want to buy one bag for them, and one bag for you. The brand-new line includes flavors like Veggie Blend, Sweet Potato Apple, Non-Dairy Cheddar and Strawberry Beet. The puffs, which are in fun star-like shapes, use organic coconut oil and offer zero grams of sugar. They're certified USDA organic, vegan, non-GMO project verified, grain-free and gluten-free. The tasty snacks are best for toddlers 12 months and older. 

Available at Whole Foods and LesserEvil.com

 

JUSTIN'S® Refrigerated Almond Butter Protein Bars

We love these refrigerated bars for on-the-go snacking as they come in kid-friendly flavors like Almond Butter, Dark Chocolate Chip Almond Butter and Honey Almond Butter. Pop them in your purse for a protein-rich, plant-based snack that you can feel good about serving. With 10g of protein per bar, you can definitely keep the hangries away. 

Available online or at a grocery store near you.

Brave Good Kind Chicken Bites

We love this delicious line of tender chicken snacks made from real, wholesome ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken and various spices and we think you will too. They’re available in three flavors: Original, Teriyaki, and Hot Honey and they're the perfect option for hikes or to keep in your purse for when the hangries hit. High in protein, they can definitely get you through a playdate at the park that ran through lunchtime. 

Buy them here

Butterfly Nut Butter

Give their lunches a colorful boost with Butterfly's brand-new nut butter that comes in two unique colors and flavors: Blue Dream and Pink Panther. Each is a unique mix of walnut, cashews, macadamia and MCT oil. The color comes from pitaya (dragon fruit) and blue spirulina. Both new flavors are organic, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free.

Available at butterflysuperfoods.com

 

Serenity Kids Grain-Free Puffs

If your babe is a puff fanatic turn to the brand-new grain-free puffs from Serenity Kids. With zero grams of sugar and no fillers like rice and grains, Serenity Kids leads with cassava root and real veggies. Choose from flavors like Carrot & Beet with Olive Oil, Broccoli & Spinach with Bone Broth, Tomato & Mushroom with Bone Broth and Sweet Pepper & Basil with Olive Oil. The entire line is non-GMO and USDA Organic certified. 

Available at myserenitykids.com

Urban Remedy Plant-Based Protein Bars

This uber-fresh plant-based food company gets a 10,000/1000 rating from our editors, which basically means these protein bars are beyond tasty! Handcraft and plant-based, Urban Remedy's bars are low in sugar, high in protein and rich in healthy fats. Currently, they are available in Cacao, Matcha and Superfood Chaga flavors. 

Available at urbanremedy.com and amazon.com

Catalina Crunch Keto Sandwich Cookies

Ditch your traditional sandwich cookies that are loaded with sugar for these low-carb treats that taste delicious! Packed with 4g plant protein, 2g sugar and only 5g net carbs. 100% plant-based, nothing artificial, great macros and now available in four flavors: Chocolate Vanilla, Chocolate Mint, Vanilla Crème and Peanut Butter.

Available here

Bubbies Mochi Ice Cream

These delicious mochi ice cream bites are available in individually-wrapped packaging and are gluten free and non-GMO. Made with all-natural ingredients, they are a tasty, no-mess, perfectly portioned treat everyone will enjoy. The new single serve mochi are available in varieties including Vegan Chocolate, Vegan Strawberry, and (non-vegan) Green Tea, Triple Chocolate, Cookie Dough Bites and more at the self-serve freezers in Whole Foods and other grocery stores nationwide! 

CLIF Kid Zbars: Cinnamon Roll

Clif Z Bar

Our tots adore Zbars (and we do, too), which is why we're eager to let you know about CLIF Kid's brand new flavor: cinnamon roll. It's packed with whole grain oats and swirls of cinnamon, and it tastes just like your fave doughy cinnamon rolls (but without the gooey, sticky mess). 

Available at shop.clifbar.com

Nature's Bakery Baked-Ins

Our kids can't get enough of Nature's Bakery fig bars, which means this brand has set the bar high for kids (and adult) snacks. Good news: Nature Bakery's brand-new soft-baked bars are just as delicious as their beloved fig bars. The new snack comes in two flavors: Chocolate Oat and Banana Chocolate Chip. Both flavors feature organic whole grains, fruits and veggies with 9 grams of whole grains, fruits, veggies and chocolate chips. They're free of high fructose corn syrup and are nut-, dairy- and soy-free. Our toddler loved the bar and we thought that it was soft enough to give to our 11 month old who devoured it as well.

Available at target.com

Mavericks Snacks Cookiez and Crackerz

Launched in early 2020, Mavericks Snacks is new to the snacking game. But that doesn't mean they're going unnoticed. Mavericks Snacks was recently voted "Best New Healthy School Snack" and are winning kids (and parents) over with their delicious Cookiez and Crackerz. Their Cookiez have 40% less sugar than the leading kids cookie and their Crackerz boast 8 grams of whole grains. All snacks are non-GMO and peanut-free.

Available at mavericksnacks.com

HighKey Snacks

This keto-friendly snack brand strives to make OG-tasting products in a healthier way. Each product is gluten-free, grain-free, made with clean ingredients and has no added sugar. Shop seven delicious products for 2021 that include Caramel Clusters, Salted Caramel Mini Cookies and Vanilla Shortbread Mini Cookies.

Available on Amazon and HighKey.

GOOD GOOD Krunchy Keto Bars

A great on-the-go snack, GOOD GOOD's Krunchy Keto Bars taste like a dessert. Packed with nutrients, each bar is loaded with eight to 13 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and has no added sugar. Choose from Raspberry Cheesecake and Caramel Friendly flavors in this snack that is great for parents and kiddos! 

Available at Amazon.

ICONIC Kids Protein Shakes

We all know how hard it is to get kids to eat healthy—the constant battle over sugar and veggies never ends. That's why ICONIC® Kids was created. It's a delicious kid’s drink with 0g of added sugar, a full serving of daily organic vegetables, Vitamin D3, and a taste that will trick kids into thinking it’s dessert. Try the sample pack and you'll get two of each of these flavors: Fruity Fiesta (tastes like the milk leftover from a bowl of Fruit Loops), Chocolate Carnival (as decadent as a sliver of rich dark chocolate cake) and Vanilla Vacay (tastes JUST like a vanilla milkshake). 

Buy them here

 

Without a Trace Power Bites

Gluten-free and plant based, Without a Trace's Power Bites are tasty as can be. The allergen-friendly bites are made with real ingredients and are free from chemicals, fillers, are non-GMO and the Big 8, plus sesame. Enjoy these fork-free morsels in Red Raspberry and Cinna-Monster.

Available at withoutracefoods.com.

Snacking Avocado from Earnest Eats

Snacking Avocado is a uniquely light and crispy clean-ingredient snack made with slices of real Hass avocados that are freeze-dried and simply seasoned with sea salt and spices. Available in three savory flavors, including Sea Salt, Sea Salt Lime and Roasted Chipotle, the nutritious new line is vegan, keto, gluten-free, Non-GMO, high-fiber and sugar free. 

Available on Amazon

Dark Chocolate Mint from Kate's Real Food

Addicted to Thin Mints but looking for a better-for-you option? Check this out! Kate's Real Food just launched their newest all-natural energy bar flavor, Dark Chocolate Mint, and you're going to love it. Like all Kate’s Real Food products, the Mint Bar is loaded with tasty USDA-certified organic ingredients, including cool peppermint extract, smooth dark chocolate, natural cacao powder, creamy peanut butter and certified gluten-free oats. It also includes organic, dried bits of cacao beans, adding texture to the bar with chocolate in a pure, unaltered form.

Available on Amazon

The Soulfull Project Granola

For a breakfast or on-the-go snack you can feel good about, we love The Soulfull Project's new granola. Made with steel-cut oats, brown rice crisps and puffed quinoa, your kids will love the "no junk" flavors of maple pecan, toasted coconut and dark chocolate cherry. You'll feel good knowing that for every serving of a Soulfull Project item that is purchased, one is donated to a food bank in that same region.

Bubba's Fine Foods Sweet & Savory Nut Mixes

These brand-new nut mixes from Bubba’s Fine foods come in six different flavors, three savory, and three sweet. Each one is filled with real food ingredients, and pack a whopping seven grams of protein. The 1.2oz serving size makes this an easy snack for busy parents and kids alike. And, if you’re trying to eat a more keto-focused diet, these nut mixes also only have three grams of net carbs per serving, too! 

Available at Amazon.

Clio Less Sugar Yogurt Bar

Clio has launched a new less-sugar Greek yogurt bar in two flavors, peach and mixed berry. With only one gram of sugar and eight grams of protein, this is a sweet treat you can feel good about sharing with the kids.

Available at Clio and Walmart stores nationwide.

KIND EQUALITY Bar

You know and love KIND bars for their low-sugar combo of nuts, dark chocolate, salt and much more. Now, they've just launched their second-edition EQUALITY bar. While the bar itself is the favorite Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Nut, but the new wrapper is custom designed by a Black female artist, and it represents a world that’s beautifully diverse, inclusive and equitable. 

Available at KIND Snacks

Greater Than Performance Drinks

Ditch the sugary sports drink and hydrate with Greater Than instead. With new flavors that include Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Clementine, this electrolyte drink is non-GMO, gluten and dairy free, 100 percent vegan, organic and paleo friendly. It's perfect for busy kids and parents on the go!

Available at drinkgt.com

—Editorial Team

All images courtesy of retailers.

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, all items were available for purchase. 

 

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With summer weather in full effect, now is the perfect time to get your grilling gear in order! Whether you prefer the purity of a charcoal grill or you go for a trendy Traeger, these grilling accessories have you covered from prep to serving. Bonus: they make great gifts as well!

Grilling Essential Bundle from Brandless

If you're not familiar with Brandless, let us tell you that you are going to love everything about this company that values quality and affordability. Get your grilling started with their essentials kit that includes grill tongs, spatula, grill brush, spice jars and more. It makes a great gift for the griller in your life. 

Buy it here, $25. 

Derek Wolf Spirit-Infused Spice Blends

These new spices from over-the-fire cooking expert Derek Wolf will definitely bump up your grilling game to a whole other level. $13.95 each. 

  • Bourbon Prime is a rich, smoky and spicy bourbon-infused blend that redefines traditional prime rib rubs with innovative flavor notes of mushroom, butter, Worcestershire and even seaweed. 
  • Lemon Chili Rye is a smoky, slightly bitter and rye-infused blend that finishes with an approachable heat and perfectly balanced acidity. 
  • Smoked Chipotle Mezcal brings a peppery citrus aroma that emulates the experience of sipping mezcal with a citrus back. 
  • Sweet Teriyaki Sake - With notes of sweet, spicy and fermentation from the soy, this sake-infused blend brings a delicious sweet heat to practically any protein. 

Melinda's All-Natural Pepper Sauce

Add this one to the list, for sure! Made with real peppers and all-natural vegetable and fruit bases sourced from Colombia, Melinda’s products are non-GMO, gluten-free, Kosher Certified and Keto-friendly. The griller in your life will love adding them to meats on the grill and sides in the oven. The black truffle hot sauce is our favorite on fries and the mango pepper sauce goes great with a breakfast burrito. 

Get them here, $4.49+

BBQ Sauce in a Can (Made with Beer!) from Rufus Teague

Rufus Teague, a leading independent maker of craft BBQ sauces and rubs is once again partnering with Boulevard Brewing Company to expand on their beloved Can-O-Que barbecue sauce. The unique Can-O-Que barbecue sauce is made with Boulevard beer and packaged in an actual beer can. 

Buy them here, $13.99.

BYOBun Kit from Porter Road x Cleveland Kitchen

You'll love getting this grilling box shipped right to your door as it is the perfect option for weekend grilling, or to take with you on your next camping trip. You provide the buns, Porter Road provides the pasture-raised sausage (bratwurst and hot dogs) and Cleveland Kitchen provides the Classic Caraway Kraut and Roasted Garlic Kraut. It's pretty much a match made in grilling heaven. 

Buy it here, $50. 

Get more meat box subscription recommendations here

Chosen Foods

When you need the perfect oil for grilling, check out Chosen Foods avocado oil. It's high smoke point makes it ideal for grilling and the mild flavor works well for salads and marinades as well. Their lemon garlic dressing is our favorite for summer salads and the avocado oil mayo is the burger fave. 

Get yours here

Digital Meat Thermometer

Save yourself the guesswork of knowing when your meat is ready and snag a digital thermometer. This one is instant read so you won't let all the heat out waiting for your temp. 

Buy it here, $19.99

Personalized Grill Board

Etsy

This is a great gift option for grillers as they'll love serving up the meal on their own personalized wood board. 

Buy it here, $33.60+

Knife Set from Brandless

This ultra-affordable knife set has everything you need to thinly slice that flank steak, chop those onions and debone a salmon. Your griller will love the knife blade covers for bringing them along when camping or grilling on the go. 

Buy it here, $49. 

Rubs of the States

Etsy

Ready for an epic BBQ battle? This set comes with spice rubs from Memphis, Kansas City and more. Which will reign supreme?

Buy it here, $44.95.

Personalized BBQ Spatula with Bottle Opener

Etsy

This two-in-one gift is as handy as it is fun! Get it engraved with your griller's name or anything else you'd like. 

Buy it here, $15.30. 

Derek Wolf | 6-Pack Beer Rub Sampler

Spiceology

How fun is this sampler that gives you a six pack of beer-infused rubs that are perfect for your next grilling soiree? Resealable lids are included. The Jalapeno Pilsner Lime Rub gives you a fruity, crisp and slightly hoppy kick while the Hickory Peach Porter Rub has chocolate, caramel and toffee tones. 

Get yours here, $69.99. 

Leather Grilling Gloves

Etsy

Safety and design are at the forefront of these personalized grilling gloves that are a great option for those who can't stand the heat. 

Buy it here, $29.99+. 

Spiceology Steak Lovers Flavors Variety Pack

If steak is your thing, this spice set it the ultimate as it comes with everything you need for a steak taste test. Try the top seller Black & Bleu Rub that is a perfect blend of Cajun blackening spices mixed with creamy bleu cheese for the spicy cheesy flavor of your dreams. We also loved the Cowboy Crust Espresso Chile Rub that give you Thomas Hammer Fireball Espresso mixed with chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and a touch of cayenne. 

Get it here, $36. 

Grill Father Apron

Etsy

He'll have all his necessary grill gear right at hand when he's wearing this fun and useful grilling apron. 

Buy it here, $24.20. 

—Kate Loweth

Featured photo: iStock

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Happy Passover! We’re kvelling over our product guide and Passover recipes! See our favorite allergy-friendly Passover foods from matzos to desserts. 

Matzo

Manischewitz
Product: Gluten Free Matzo-st‌yle Squares
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Yehuda
Product: Gluten Free Matzo-st‌yle Squares
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Streit’s
Product: Passover Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Whole Wheat Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

The Matzo Project
Product: Salted Matzo
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated

Manischewitz
Product: Passover Crackers
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Egg, Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Streit’s
Product: Egg Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Egg, Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Egg Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Egg, Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Matzo Ball Soup Mix 

Manischewitz
Product: Gluten-Free Matzo Ball Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

The Matzo Project
Product: Matzo Ball Mix & Matzo Soup Kit
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated

Manischewitz
Product: Matzo Ball & Soup Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Streit’s
Product: Matzo Ball & Soup Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Lipton
Product: Matzo Ball & Soup Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Matzo Meal 

Yehuda
Product:Gluten Free Matzo Meal
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Yehuda
Product: Matzo Meal
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Yehuda
Product: Panko st‌yle Matzo Meal
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Yehuda
Product: Matzo Farfel
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Matzo Meal
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Desserts

Gefen
Product: Gluten Free Marble Cake Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8 Allergens
Contains: None
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8 Allergens
Contains: None
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Sandwich Creme Cookies
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Soy, Shellfish, Fish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Egg
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Sponge Cake Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: Apple Crumb Cake Mix
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product:Extra Moist Chocolate Cake Mix with Frosting
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Yehuda
Product: Chocolatey Covered Matzos
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish, Fish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

Manischewitz
Product: S’more Matzo Kit
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Tree Nut, Milk, Egg, Soy, Shellfish
Contains: Wheat, Gluten, Fish
Precautionary label: None
Facility dedicated free from: None Stated
Certified: Kosher for Passover

To learn more about our product guide process, see our letter from our founder.

This post originally appeared on Spokin.

Spokin is a modern platform and app connecting people managing food allergies to resources including food, restaurants, hotels and more. Users have personalized experiences based on allergies & location. With 55,000+ reviews across 79 countries, Spokin helps the allergy community share and connect. The Spokin iOS app is free on iTunes.