ML Interest Tag: music-center

Take the “Home” out of Homework at These Inspiring Spots

by Christina Montoya Fiedler

Back to school means back to heavy backpacks and loads of homework, even for little guys. But instead of studying on the dining room table or bedroom desk, make it more fun by changing the scene to someplace more inspiring. Think scenic city lakes, sprawling green grass and museum-like libraries that all have tables and places to spread out (and fun incentives to finish up fast!). Check out our top picks for places to break out the books in LA.

photo: Christina A. via Yelp

Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake can make you forget you’re in the middle of a bustling city. Bring a picnic blanket and camp out for the afternoon while your kids get tons of homework done all while listening to the sounds of the water and magnificent fountain in the distance. There are also park benches and picnic tables. Once you’re done, head over the lakeshore and watch the ducks and turtles swim in the late afternoon sun. If they finish with enough time, they can even take a paddle around the lake on the boats.

If you need to fuel up with an after school snack, check out the treats at the Boat House. They serve up awesome grilled cheese sandwiches and chocolate dipped bananas for kids and Blue Bottle coffee for parents.

Good to know: Echo Park Lake has free wifi, no password required.

751 Echo Park Ave.
Echo Park
Online: www.squareonedining.com/boathouse.php

photo: Annenberg Beach House

Annenberg Community Beach House
Summer might be over, but it doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to the beach just yet. We live in Los Angeles, after all, where the weather is basically perfect 24/7. The pool might be closed, but that won’t stop you from grabbing a beach towel and staking claim under an umbrella or up on the observation deck for homework al fresco. If hunger strikes, try grabbing an early dinner at the beach cafe, one of the few places you can eat with your toes still in the sand.

Good to know: The splash pad here is turned on year round, so if your little ones need some serious incentive to crack those spines, let them know that if they finish with enough time before dinner, they can splash around and play on the sand playground before heading home for bath time.

415 Pacific Coast Hwy
Santa Monica
Online: annenbergbeachhouse.com

photo: ZZ via Yelp

Grand Park
There’s a reason Grand Park LA is dubbed “The Park for Everyone.” From grassy lawns and picnic tables to brand new play sets and a wondrous splash pad, there is in fact something for everyone. Located between the Music Center and City Hall, this park is perfect for a quick study session or get a jump on those reading assignments while you bask in the perfect Los Angeles sun. Hungry? There’s always a couple of food trucks parked and ready for customers. Or Starbucks for sleepy parents who need to be fully caffeinated to figure out the new math!

Good to know: You can even bring Fido to the park. As long as he is on a leash, he’s welcomed at this pet friendly location.

200 N Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: grandparkla.org

 

photo: Nicole C. via Yelp

Griffith Park Trails Café
Nestled in the Fern Dell area of Griffith Park is one of the quaintest spots for coffee and snacks in the city. Grab a Stumptown iced coffee for you and a fresh squeezed orange juice for your kiddo. And if you’re hungry there’s tons of brain food available: pb&js, egg sandwiches, homemade scones and more. A canopy of oak trees shades the tables and there’s always a nice breeze, even on hot days. This makes it the ideal place for spending some quality homework time with the kids. Take a post homework stroll on the nature path where you’ll likely encounter tadpoles and crayfish in the nearby creek. It’s also a great spot for aspiring bird watchers.

2333 Fern Dell Dr
Griffith Park

photo: Kristine T. via Yelp

Cerritos Library
How boring.  We’re recommending a library?  Yes, because the children’s section at this library is part aquarium, part Natural History Museum, not to mention the lighthouse, spaceship and outdoor sculpture garden, which are all inspiring and give kids great things to look at and think about as they study.  Plus, for the traditionalists, there are plenty of tables and you’re surrounded by books!  It’s like a reference museum you can study in.

Good to know: To borrow books or access their wifi, you must have a Cerritos library card.  If you live in Cerritos, this is easy peasy and free, but if you don’t live or work in the city, it will cost you $100/year.  So non-residents may want to save internet research for when you get home!

18025 Bloomfield Ave.
Cerritos
562-916-1350
Online: cerritoslibrary.us

The Americana at Brand
Sure you’ve been to the Americana to shop, but what about to do some serious homework? A change in scene might be just what the teacher ordered. Set out a blanket on the green grassy lawn in the center of the complex and get to studying. Parents will love the walk up coffee bar that’s adjacent the grass lawn, which makes it perfect for an afternoon caffeine break. If the kids are hungry you can stop into any of the family friendly restaurants for an early dinner.  And the tram makes a fun “it’s done” adventure, while the nearby Barnes and Noble bookstore is perfect for research or buying books to bring home that pertain to topics that the kids are studying.

Good to know: Le Pain Quoitidien has an excellent make-your-own-sandwich kids meal featuring turkey, cheese, baguette, hummus and veggies for post-school fuel or an early dinner.

889 Americana Way
Glendale
Online: americanaatbrand.com

Do you have any favorite away-from-home, homework spots?  We’d love to hear about your family’s study habits in the comment section!

—Christina Fiedler

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‘Tis the Season to Hit the Stage

by LeTania Kirkland Smith

The holidays are nearing full swing, and that’s the perfect time to take a break from shopping and wrapping and eating to enjoy some theater. These productions have mastered entertaining kids and adults alike, so you won’t just grin and bear it, you’ll grin and enjoy right along with your little theater buffs. Here are 8 shows that range from holiday to classic to movie inspired monsters you won’t want to miss.

photo: Creating Arts Company

Retro Holiday Show II
If your crew is obsessed with retro holiday characters (and let’s face it, you probably introduced them to it all), this one hour interactive musical is just the thing. Kids receive a music maker upon entering the theater and are encouraged to cheer on the heroes, boo the villains and sing along. This shows rolls all the best into one: Santa Claus is missing and Rudolph, Frosty, Kris Kringle and their friends go on the search before Christmas is ruined. It wouldn’t be a retro show without running into the Grinch and friends who are determined to put Christmas to an end. Never fear—a superhero and princess are not far behind. This one is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Good to know: This “mini-musical” is recommended for ages 3 & up.
Runs November 28-December 20, 2015

It’s a Wonderful Life
If you have older theater-goers, this show is just the thing to get into the holiday spirit. Introduce them to a classic with a journey through George Bailey’s life as he learns just how much he has impacted the world and loved ones around him. This story of life, love and the strength of the human spirit hits all the right notes for holiday reflection. This musical is also filled with songs, interactive and 90 minutes with a 10 minute intermission, so it’s perfect for elementary school kids.

Good to know: This “Jr. Broadway” interactive show is recommended for ages 5 & up.
Runs November 15-December 20, 2015

Creating Arts
3112 Pennsylvania Ave.
Santa Monica
310-804-0223
Online: creatingarts.org

photo: Pasadena Playhouse

Peter Pan and Tinkerbell: A Pirates Christmas
If your family is obsessed with the “boy who would never grow up” or has a bit of a Brit fixation, this is the show for you. This musical holiday production is performed in the style of a classic British Panto—think encouraged audience response and singing along with the cast (perfect if you have an antsy guy or girl on your hands). Join Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys as they attempt to crush the pirates plans to deliver Peter Pan to Captain Hook as the ultimate Christmas gift. From magic, dancers from So You Think You Can Dance and contemporary music, this show has a little something for everyone.

Good to Know: Pasadena Playhouse does not generally allow little patrons under 6.
Runs December 9, 2015-January 3, 2016

Pasadena Playhouse
39 S. El Molino Ave.
Pasadena
626-356-7529
Online: pasadenaplayhouse.org

photo: Theatre West

The Emperor’s New Clothes
Theatre West takes your wigglers seriously by providing interactive experience through the Storybook Theater series. If you need a break from the holidays this winter, head west to see The Emperor’s New Clothes. This classic fairy tale is full of music, laughter and unabashed “two-cents” from its young audience members. Sit alongside your littles and enjoy this tale of the clothes-obsessed and slightly foolish Emperor who is tricked by local bandits to wear invisible clothes. Kids are encouraged to march in the fashion parade, laugh at the bandits and even warn the Emperor that he is wearing nothing but a silly pair of undies! Everyone is sure to get in a good laugh and lesson.

Runs through February 27, 2016

Theatre West
3333 Cahuenga Blvd. West
Universal Studios
818-761-2203
Online: theatrewest.org

photo: Morgan-Wixson Theatre

Shrek: The Musical
Laughter, magic and a definite twist on some of your favorite fairy tale characters—it’s all waiting for you with Shrek: The Musical at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in Santa Monica. The show is based on the Dreamworks Animation hit that began when an unsightly (yet lovable) green ogre, Shrek, shows up to rescue a feisty princess (who probably doesn’t need rescuing).  The whole family will be able to get behind the humor, music and movement behind this production.

Runs through December 12, 2015

Morgan Wixson-Theatre
2627 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica
310-828-7519
Online: morgan-wixson.org

All About Santa
Ho-ho-hop on over to the Santa Monica Playhouse for something entirely new with this original show. It’s holiday time at the North Pole and things are looking as cheerful as ever, when who should appear on the scene, but Mr. Bottom from the bottom of the world.  Who is this mysterious stranger? He’s Santa’s long lost twin brother, bringing with him a host of mischievous plans to destroy the love and sharing of the season.  This is a heart-warming Victorian yuletide musical filled with Mr. Bottom’s hijinks, but, with the help of the audience, brotherly love conquers all.

Runs December 5 – December 20.

Santa Monica Playhouse
1211 4th St.
Santa Monica
310-394-9779
Online: santamonicaplayhouse.com

A Christmas Carol
If your crew is in need of a classic, hit the Glendale Centre Theatre for their annual presentation of A Christmas Carol. While most productions in town can be a bit dry for kids, at this show the whole family can soak in the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his visits from three ghosts that help him realize love and humanity are greater than money and greed. Though not an interactive play the music, set and pure enchantment of the story should draw most people in (though littles under 4 may have a hard time focusing). This space is intimate with a vintage charm and there is not a bad seat in the house. Go ahead and start a new family tradition.

Runs November 27-December 24, 2015

Glendale Centre Theatre
324 N. Orange St.
Glendale
818-244-8481
Online: glendalecentretheatre.com

photo: Lee Tonks

Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker
It’s always a treat to take in a show at the Music Center downtown and this spin on the Nutcracker Tale is just the ticket. In this rendition, the great Christmas Eve party scene takes place in 1928-era New Orleans. Kara Johnson receives a nutcracker filled with hot chocolate and upon falling asleep is transported to a land of wonder by a trio of mischievous mice. This spin includes an original score by Mariah Carey, young LA dancers who are all students of the Debbie Allen Academy and Debbie Allen herself. Treat your family to this not-so-classic adventure.  But if you’re looking for a more classic production of The Nutcracker, check out our list that’s sure to have the perfect version for your little ones..

Good to know: This is a limited two-day engagement.
Runs December 18-19 2015

Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
135 N. Grand Ave.
Downtown LA
213-972-0711
Online: musiccenter.org

What show can’t you wait to see this season?  We’d love to hear about your holiday thespian adventures in the comment section.

—LeTania Kirkland

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7 Fountains Worth Your Wishes

by Jennifer O'Brien

Summer is winding down and you’ve explored all our best pools, water holes, beaches and splash pads. If you’re looking for a change of pace, branch out and explore the city’s grandest public fountains with your little splashers. And bring plenty of pennies because these fab fountains are definitely worth your wishes.

photo credit: Shelley Z. via Yelp

Best For Bathing Beauties: Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain at Grand Park
In the heart of downtown’s spectacular Grand Park, is a fountain so gloriously fun for tiny tots, they’ll never want to leave. The Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain is a breathtaking site to behold on its own, but what makes this hotspot so enduring to kiddos is the interactive splash pad with alternating jets that beg tikes to wade and frolic until their pruned little piggies can’t take anymore. Kids should definitely bring a change of clothes—they (and in turn, you) will get soaked. Mom and dad will love that the area is clean (even the restrooms), offers plenty of seating and features a Starbucks at the ready. Parking is available in nearby lots, but we suggest saving yourself the headache (and moolah) by taking the Metro Red Line to Civic Center Station.

210 N. Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: grandparkla.org

photo credit: Christopher R. via Yelp

Best For Wee Ones: Tongva Park Fountain
The fountains and interactive water features at Tonga Park are great for toddlers, there is soft rubbery flooring at the sprayground and loads of things to discover, all of which make this our fave fountain for those under 5. While the fountains aren’t the giant gushers like the others we’ve picked, they’re trickling, cascading and flowing-in other words, perfect for little explorers to see how water works and while the fountains aren’t for playing in, they can get wonderfully wet at the aforementioned sprayground. There are amazing free programs on weekends and you’re steps from the Pier and the beach, making it a destination for a whole day of discovery, even if you don’t happen to live in Santa Monica. Throw in the fact that there are clean bathrooms and it might become your favorite wet spot in the city. Get our inside scoop on exploring the park.

1615 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica
Online: tongvapark.squarespace.com

photo credit: DaveBloggs007 via Creative Commons

Best Artful Water: Peace on Earth Fountain at The Music Center Plaza
The most photographed piece of public art in Los Angeles (bet you didn’t know that!), the Peace on Earth sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz was erected in 1969 and has become an integral part of downtown’s cultural landscape. Sure, it’s a stunning part of The Music Center courtyard, but what tots really dig is the fountain that surrounds it. 280 water jets burst out of holes in the pavement tiles, double-dog daring kids to get as close as possible to the playful spray. Parking is available in The Music Center Garage or nearby Walt Disney Concert Hall for a fairly hefty fee. Again, the Red Line to Civic Center may be a much more affordable (and better people watching) option. On performance days (and performances of Toyota Symphonies for Youth or World City Music on Saturdays, across the street at the Walt Disney Concert Hall are awesome musical outings for kids), snacks are available in the courtyard shop.

135 N. Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: musiccenter.org

photo credit: Jennifer O’Brien

Most Historical: William J. Mulholland Memorial Fountain
After your little ones have exhausted the ponies, train, merry-go-round (and you) at Griffith Park, head directly across the street for a beautiful breather at one of LA’s most historic fountains. Recently restored to its former fabulousness, the William J. Mulholland Memorial Fountain (named after the “father of the LA water system,” as Chinatown fans know) is truly one of the most peaceful respites you can find in the city. Surrounded by a lush garden, tikes will love dancing waters that shoot 50 feet in the air every few minutes. It’s also a popular spot for wedding and prom pictures, and seeing grownups in gowns is an extra added treat for princess loving petites. Plenty of seating is available on surrounding benches and offers kiddos a perfect place to catch the water show or even curl up with a good book afterwards. Parking is plentiful in the park’s lot.

Riverside Dr. and Los Feliz Blvd.
Griffith Park

photo credit: Gateway Fanfare Fountains via Facebook

Better (And Closer) Than Vegas: Fanfare Fountains & Water Feature at Gateway Plaza
If you suddenly find yourself in San Pedro one weekend, check out the Port of Los Angeles’ mind-blowing water extravaganza, the Fanfare Fountains at Gateway Plaza. This incredible fountain has a similar look and feel to Vegas’ famous Bellagio fountain with good reason. The exact same company designed both. Fanfare is the largest water feature in California and will impress even the most finicky fountain fans with beautifully choreographed shows set to music as water is propelled 100 feet into the air. Shows are every 10–30 minutes throughout the day. Be sure to double check the schedule for exact times depending on season and time of day. Free one-hour parking is available at the LA Cruise Ship Promenade.

Cruise Ship Terminal Entrance at Harbor Blvd. and Swinford St.
San Pedro
Online: portoflosangeles.org/recreation/fountain

photo credit: Jessica Ritz

Best When It’s Breezy: Echo Park Lake
Some of our favorite fountains you can enjoy casually. This one is best appreciated with a little work. The fountain in the middle of Echo Park Lake shoots geyser-like into the air, and while you could watch it from shore, little daredevils like to get as close as possible to the geyser mist…which means you need to rent a pedal boat. (Rental cost: $5/kid, $10/adult per hour.) Get up as close to the fountains as you like, where the spray will cool you down almost as much at the frozen chocolate dipped bananas you can enjoy back at the boathouse when you are done getting wet. Get our inside scoop on exploring the lake and park at Echo Park Lake.

751 N. Echo Park Ave.
Echo Park
Online: laparks.org/dos/aquatic/facility/echoPkLake.htm

photo credit: Alana M. via Yelp

So Obvious You Forgot About It: The Grove
This almost seems too evident to mention, but for that very reason, it belongs on the list. It’s not the biggest, or the wettest or the most historic. But for small fry and tired parents, it may be the easiest and most relaxing fountain that’s still awe inspiring for littles. Located right next to a big green space for running around, with a bridge perfect for pitching pennies, and next to the statues of a lemonade stand and hose (that sometimes spouts water, so they can get wet) and filled with koi, this fountain was also built by the Bellagio fountain designers and “dances” every hour to songs by Dean Martin, Kool and the Gang, Lionel Richie and others. The water spurts 60 ft. up and at night the accompanying lights dazzle tots. Not to mention, you can stock up at BabyGap, Splendid and Janie & Jack at the shops and reward their good shopping behavior with fountain watching, trolley riding and ice cream. Manufactured? You bet, but that doesn’t detract from the convenience or awe at all.

189 The Grove Dr.
Mid-City
Online: thegrovela.com

Note: Due to drought conditions, any of these fountains could be turned off for a short period.  As of August, 2015, all are currently still spouting (using recycled water) with the exception of the Mulholland Memorial Fountain, which is temporarily shut off for the peak heat of summer.

What are your family’s favorite fountains around town? We’d love to hear!

—Jennifer O’Brien

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7 Spectacular Studios Where the First Class is Free

by rthilaryriedemann

With kids, signing-up for more than four classes of beginner ballet, language or music lessons is the definition of long-term commitment. Thankfully, these local, hip studios have free introductory classes where your tiny dancer can practice a proper pirouette or hone her martial arts moves before you shell out the big bucks. All you have to do is call ahead and register your spot for a free first class. Read on for the scoop before you sign on the dotted line.

Gymboree Play & Music Center
Whether your little one wants to tumble, sing, act, or dance, Gymboree has you covered. Creativity reigns free here so kiddos can play till their heart’s content and you’re ready for nap time. With classes like Family Music, where whole gang can sing and dance around with tambourines, to Art, where little hands can create the next masterpiece for the National Gallery, and even Sports, where kids can learn racquetball, volleyball and even golf, Gymboree has enough fun stuff for even the pickiest of kiddos. Email wdc@gymboreeclasses.com for more information.

2639 Connecticut Ave. NW #113
Washington DC
202-627-2450
Online: gymboreeclasses.com

photo courtesy of Gymboree

Music Together
Mini-maestro’s in training can listen, sing, dance, and learn the scales of music at Music Together. The teachers will take your child’s natural enthusiasm for moving, shaking and making noise and guide them towards a lifelong (hopefully!) love of music. They can beat on drums, shake maracas, dance in circles and just enjoy being a kiddo in a world full of beautiful noise.

100 E. Windsor Ave.
Alexandria, Va
703-548-7195
Online: musictogetheralexandria.com

photo courtesy of Music Together 

Kidville
Boing.Bounce.Tumble.Repeat. If this sounds like your kiddo then Kidville Bethesda might just be the ticket to containing their excitement and channeling it towards something constructive. Gym, art, music, dance and enrichment classes offer a variety of super fun activities that all kids love. For those of us with multiple little ones, it helps to have everyone’s activities in one place, so maybe, just maybe, you’ll get a few minutes of peace and quiet…at least until they beg for ice cream when they’re done.

4825 Bethesda Ave.
Bethesda, Md
301-656-5030
Online: kidville.com/bethesda

photo courtesy of Kidville

Crazy 88 Mixed Martial Arts
Every so often something so incredibly cool comes along that one free class won’t cut it. Crazy 88 MMA is just that sort of awesome, and they offer a free 30 day trial to find out if your little ones can kick some MMA booty. Classes focus on discipline, strength, encouragement, and respect which means there’s no need to fear that little Johnny or Sarah will only want to body slam their stuffed animals when they get home from class. In fact, Crazy 88 MMA helps to prepare kiddos to face real life scenarios with dignity and grace.  So don’t be surprised when those video games start to gather dust and your little MMA warrior starts acting like Mr. Miyagi. Wax on, wax off.

7024 Troy Hill Dr. Suite L
Elkridge, Md
443-283-1450
Online: crazy88mma.com

photo courtesy of Crazy 88 Martial Arts

Language Stars
Little xenophiles will love checking out the free class at Language Stars. Whether they dream of Paris, yearn for Berlin, or are just in love with Asian fusion cuisine, kids can test out French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, or Arabic classes designed specifically for their tiny (but ever expanding) minds.  Parents can tag along to the tots classes, and then watch in wonder as the fluency progresses through the ages.

6224-C Old Dominion Drive
McLean, Va
703-462-8858
Online: languagestars.com

photo courtesy of Language Stars

roda Movements
Capoeira might be the hottest thing we’ve heard of in a long time. Combining dance, acrobatics, music and martial arts, it’s a UNESCO protected cultural heritage from Brazil. For kiddos who love everything about well everything, Capoeira might take little miss and mr to the front of the line at the cool awards. You could also win most awesome Mom (or Dad) ever. roda Movements let your little one move and shake for free (sweet!) before committing to an intense and exotic training regiment.

7014-A Westmoreland Ave.
Takoma Park, Md
301-920-0913
Online: rodamovements.com

photo: soaringbird via flickr

Ballet de Volee
Sometimes, there’s nothing cuter than a little girl in a leotard and tutu. But since said girls can often be finicky (as are boys) Ballet de Volee is the perfect place to try out some pirouettes before signing up for a season long (often 3-6 months) repertoire of arabesques, brises, and plies. Whether or not your little one dreams of being the next Mikhail Baryshnikov or Anna Pavlova, Ballet de Volee will offer classical ballet training to help foster a love of ballet and proper technique to tiny dancers everywhere.

215 W Montgomery Ave.
Rockville, MD
301-933-2928
Online: rockvilleballet.com

photo: Brad Greenlee via flickr

Know a studio that offers free classes that you’ve tried before? Share them in the Comments below! 

— Hilary Riedemann

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7 Spots To Join in the Marathon Fun

by Meghan Rose

Starting at Dodger Stadium and winding all the way to the Santa Monica Pier, the Los Angeles Marathon is dashing through the city this year on March 15, and it goes past some of the most famous landmarks in the city. The route is lined people cheering, offering up snacks, and even drumming along. These are our favorite spots along the route where kids can join in the fun.

Update: Due to the expected heat on Sunday, the race will be started half an hour early, and runners will be released in waves.  This may be the hottest marathon on record, so remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen at hats, even if you’re just watching!

photo credit: LA Marathon’s facebook page

Early Bird Takes the Redline
Runners will take off from Dodger Stadium starting at 6:50 a.m., but navigating downtown street closures stinks on four wheels. Take the Red Line to Union Station, where you can see runners, well, run, from Chinatown to Olvera Street, then head back one stop to Civic Center, where you can laze on the Music Center plaza and watch the runners come up from Little Tokyo on their way out of downtown.  Then head back to Chinatown for some dim sum and think about how much more fun it is to eat than run…  Check the LA Marathon website for more information on public transportation and parking on Marathon Day.

photo credit: Micheltorena Garden’s facebook page

Drum Along
Get up, get some coffee, and head to the community garden at Micheltorena Elementary School in Silverlake.  It’s located right along the run route (Sunset & Micheltorena), and from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. there will be a drum circle to chant, cheer and drum to energize the runners along at Mile 7.  Afterwards, the kids will dig playing in the garden and meeting the chickens & rabbits that call the garden home.

photo credit: LA Marathon’s facebook page

Hollywood’s Walk (Run?) of Fame
The route goes right by Hollywood and Highland, The Chinese Theater, the El Capitan and all the stars in the sidewalk at just about Mile 11.  A party atmosphere always emerges, and there is plenty to do (movies, candy shops, museums, shopping…) when the novelty of watching others sweat wears off.  The leaders will be running by between about 8 a.m. and 9:20 a.m.

photo credit: Joseph Y. via yelp

Griddle Café
They exercise.  You carb load.  Fair deal.  Right around Mile 13, at Sunset and Fairfax lies an LA institution: the Griddle Café.  Home of the ginormous pancakes that come in Red Velvet, strawberry Frosted Flake, and even one with Bailey’s and Kahlua mixed right in (this one has a built in excuse not to share with the kids).  You’ll start running tomorrow.  Today, wave at those dedicated souls with your syrupy fork as they pound the pavement.

photo credit: LA Marathon via facebook

Beverly Hills Block Party
Right between Miles 16 & 17, at Crescent Dr. & Little Santa Monica, you’ll find the biggest block party in town. This community gathering features live music, food and beverage sampling, and even product giveaways. The party runs (pun intended!) from 8 a.m.-noon.

Cheer Alley
Heading into Mile 18 by the Beverly Hills High School is Cheer Alley, a gathering of hundreds of cheerleaders.  Bring along your own pom poms to join the fun, and also marvel at the athleticism and enthusiasm. Cheer Alley is the Pep Rally of the Year, and is made up of Middle and High School cheerleading squads from across Southern California.  So cheer for the runners, and also for your favorite  squads, because the winners take home a big cash prize.

 photo credit: LA Marathon via facebook

The Finish Line
The route ends just before the Santa Monica Pier, the perfect place to congratulate the finishers and then hop on the carousel or Ferris wheel and enjoy the rest of a beautiful day.  The lead women expect to cross the finish line around 9:30 a.m., while mid-pack gets here closer to noon.

You’ll find a map of the run route here, so you can plan where to watch (or where not to drive!).  And remember, anyplace along the route is a perfect place to bring the kids out with a bag of cut up oranges or bananas to hand out and cheer runners along.  This is one of those wonderful events that really brings our whole city together.

Where will you watch? (We’ll be at the drum circle!)

—Meghan Rose

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Kid-Approved Holiday Happenings Worth Booking…Now!

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Jumping the gun on the holidays when school just started may sound like over-the-top type A behavior, but—trust us—when it comes to some of the most popular revelry in the District, it’s totally worth it. You’ll have more family fa-la-la-ahh time together in December with this booking guide for the hottest holiday happenings. Plan now; stress less later. Period.



Nutcracker Sw-w-w-e-e-e-e-t
Remember the first time saw the Snow Queen? The world shimmered as she danced, taking your breath away with each jeté. Everything was beautiful at the ballet. If your sugarplums will be 5 or 6 years old by December, they’re ready for you to share Clara’s magical story with them. Snag choice seats now to the most bedazzling and sumptuous performances of this timeless dance confection by nabbing your tickets now. Squiggly kid tip: Aisle seats make for quicker exits.

  • The Washington Ballet
    November 29-30
    THEARC (Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus)
    1901 Mississippi Ave., SE
    December 4-28
    Warner Theater
    513 13th St.
    202-397-7328
    Online: washingtonballet.org
  • The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
    December 14
    Strathmore Music Center
    5301 Tuckerman Ln. (North Bethesda, Md)
    301-581-5100
    Online: strathmore.org
  • Center for the Arts, George Mason University
    December 17-18 (not matinee)
    4373 Mason Pond Dr. (Fairfax, Va)
    888-945-2468
    Online: cfa.gmu.edu
  • The Puppet Co.
    November 28–December 31
    Glen Echo Park
    7300 MacArthur Blvd. (Glen Echo, Md)
    301-634-5380
    Online: thepuppetco.org

One Lump or Two?  (No, Not Coal)
A proper cup of tea with a scone. What a lovely tradition. If your timing is right, you and the kiddo can go ice-skating together and then refuel with delectables. If the weather is dreary, not to worry dearie. A hot cup of tea with your kids will do you all good. Reservations now mean your holiday to-do-list-that-is-way-too-long has a built in pause button. Time for a nibble and giggle.

  • The Ritz Carlton at Pentagon City Va, serves up a posh tea service for the pint size set (did you say Hot Chocolate mom?) and is nearby the not-too-big skating rink in Pentagon Row. Book your reservations now because they fill up fast. Insider tip: tell them you want the Teddy Bear Children’s Tea when you make the reservation.Ritz Carlton Pentagon City
    1250 S Hayes St. (Arlington, Va)
    Tea Times: Saturdays 2:30 pm-4:30 pm
    Sundays 3 pm-4:30 pm
    Cost: $29-$42/person; Teddy Bear Children’s Tea (with Hot Chocolate), $16/person
    703-412-2762
    Online: ritzcarlton.com
  • Sip a cuppa tea with your 4+ year old and Mrs. Claus at the Mansion at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Md. Listen to music, and nosh away while she reads a heartwarming story. Guess who will stop for a surprise Ho-Ho-Ho? Nope. Not the Green Giant. Guess again, but don’t tell the kids. It’s suppose to be a secret.The Mansion at Strathmore
    10701 Rockville Pike (North Bethesda, Md)
    Cost: $26/person
    Reservations: 301-581-5108

Discover Tuba Christmas
Every year a triumphant of tubas gather at the Kennedy Center grand foyer to play holiday songs. Think dozens of marching band members of all ages coming together in a euphoric Christmas euphonium fest. It’s an oomp-pah-pah hoot not to be missed. Sound check tip: Take along earplugs for little listeners.

When: Second week in December
Cost: Free
Kennedy Center
700 F St., NW (Foggy Bottom)

Spend the Holidays in Russia
If you missed out on the summertime French Festival at Hillwood, you can revel at the Russian Winter Festival at Hillwood in December. Hang on to your babushka as you and the kid-niks kick up your heels Russian style and twirl around to that lively Caucus beat. After a full day the kids will go to bed early. You can curl up and watch Doctor Zhivago. Nyet?

When: December 13-14 , 10 am-5 pm
Cost: $5-$18; FREE for 6 and under
Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens
4155 Linnean Ave., NW (Van Ness)
202-686-8500
Online: hillwoodmuseum.org

Which of these do you plan on booking? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Linda Bennett

Photos courtesy of The Washington Ballet via Facebook, Larry Jacobsen via Flickr, Hillwood Museum via Facebook

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Boston Totally Awesome Awards 2013 Winners & Celebrations

by marisaredtri

Parents from all over the nation picked their favorite family-friendly businesses for Red Tricycle’s 2013 Totally Awesome Awards!  Over 236,777 votes were cast and the results are in with all of the Totally Awesome winners listed below.

All of us at Red Tricycle want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the winners, finalists and especially, to everyone who took the time to nominate and vote for their favorite local businesses. Without further ado, here are your 2013 Totally Awesome Award Winners Boston:

Art Classes for Kids: Color*Full
Baby & Maternity Shops: Magic Beans
Camps for Kids: Camp Grossman
Childcare Agencies & Resources: Personally Paired
Cupcake, Bakery & Sweet Shops: Cupcake Mojo
Drop-Off Childcare Programs: Tiny World Childcare
Family & Pediatric Dentists: Chestnut Dental Associates
Family Camping Sites: Normandy Farms
Family Escapes & Getaways: The Wildflower Inn
Family Hiking Trails: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Family Photographers: Willow Baby Studios
Family Restaurants & Cafes: La Famiglia Giorgio’s
Groups for Moms & Dads: Parent Talk
Ice-Cream & Froyo Shops: J.P. Licks
Indoor Playspaces: Jam Time
Kid-Friendly Coffee Shops: Espresso Love
Kids Birthday Party Spots: My Gym
Kids Clothing & Gear Stores: Tiny Hanger
Kids Consignment & Resale Shops: Itsy Bitsy Thrifty
Kids Dance & Theater Classes: Boston Percussive Dance
Kids Language Classes: Tiny Signs
Kids Music Classes: Children’s Music Center of Jamaica Plain
Kids Sports Classes: Petit Papillon Yoga
Midwives & Doulas: A Mom is Born
Mom Fitness Programs: B Yoga Center
Mom-Run Businesses: Hatched It
Museums: Waterworks Museum
Parent Education Programs: Boston Baby Beginnings
Parks & Playgrounds: Cambridge Common Playground
Schools & Preschool Programs: Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center
Toy & Book Stores: Barefoot Books

To celebrate the winners and finalists, we threw 9 #totallyawesome grand events in 9 Red Tricycle cities.

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