The Harry Potter-themed advent comes with 24 pieces and is packed with plenty of Pocket Pop! accessories that are new this year. It’s currently on a huge discount and is selling for $39, down from the $59 OG price.
So what comes in this year’s calendar? You’ll get the perfect assortment of witches, house elves, wizards, beasts, and ghosts. You’ll also expand your collection of your fave characters that include Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley.
You can pre-order the calendar for $39 on Amazon with an expected ship date of Oct. 22, 2020.
Vacationing with kids: stressful, unexpected, but also pretty great. In fact, a new survey found that 52% of parents think trips are more enjoyable if the kids can come too. It’s part of a larger study focusing on family vacations as summer travel season comes to a close.
SWNS, in conjunction with OnePoll and Apple Vacations, surveyed more than 2,000 Americans about their travel preferences and 59% also said that they don’t mind a bad day of vacation, as long as their kids get to enjoy it! That may relate to happy family trip memories—half of respondents who traveled growing up said the excitement will never go away. And despite the headaches of planning and packing, 80% plan to continue family vacations to build strong bonds.
Speaking of packing, respondents ranked it as the least enjoyable part of vacationing (relatable). Once families reach their destinations, there’s plenty of water activities they’re eager to experience. Over one third (35%) said they’re excited for kids to try swimming, visiting a water park (29%) or fishing (28%). Don’t forget those swimsuits when you’re filling those bags!
Finally, it’s no surprise that Americans prioritize price when booking a vacation destination, followed by Wi-Fi access and a pool. Luckily, we have the perfect, budget-friendly ideas no matter where your fam is headed next, from Portland (Oregon) to Portland (Maine)! And if your travel is done for the year, you’ll have plenty of time to snag that hot reservation for next summer!
––Sarah Shebek
Featured image courtesy of Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash
What happens when the mavens of a super successful pool float company and an ice cream business come together? The world’s sweetest collab!
Minnidip and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams have paired up to create the perfect duo to finish out the summer in epic summer style. The Minnidip x Jeni’s line is crafted around a custom, hand-drawn swirl pattern that will have you dreaming of creamy ice cream all day long.
Emily Vaca of Minnidip worked with Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on the ice cream-inspired design that brings the textures and color of some of the most popular flavors to life. Not only does the collection boast plenty of fun floats, but it also includes a backyard Ice Cream Pint Toss game and a miniature inflatable ice cream truck pint float.
You can shop products that include the Minnidip x Jeni’s Pool Party in a Box (with options for those both with and without a pool) for $99 and includes a Luxe Inflatable Pool, Minnidip x Jeni’s Ice Cream Pint Toss Game, Ice Cream Scoop Ball and a Minnidip x Jeni’s Ice Cream Truck Cooler. If you opt for the set for those with a pool, you’ll get the Minnidip x Jeni’s Ice Cream Float in lieu of the inflatable pool.
Don’t need them all? You can order each product ala carte too! Prices range from $18 to $45 and will only be around for the summer.
It’s summertime, and that means finding plenty of activities to keep the kids busy. From bird watching from the comfort of your own home to exploring the backyard, we’ve rounded up plenty of free printable scavenger hunt ideas that will have your little explorers discovering in no time.
Sketching Scavenger Hunt
Not only will your kids be on the lookout for things they find outside, but this fun scavenger hunt from Buggy and Buddy has a twist—players have to draw what they see, too. It'll get some art into your day, plus, it'll make the hunt last longer! Grab the printable here.
The days are getting longer, which means there are more opportunities to be outside. We love these clever after-dark scavenger hunt ideas spotted over at Dating Divas.
This is the time to get outside before summer really sets in. This insect scavenger hunt will take you outdoors, but it'll also help kids move past the "ick" factor of bugs for kids. Grab the tutorial and the free printable from Better Lesson.
No need to travel far with this fun printable. The backyard scavenger hunt takes kids on an adventure finding nature's jewels within the comfort of your own yard. Head to Hey, Let's Make Stuff to download for free!
If you can't leave the house, it's time for an indoor scavenger hunt! Send the kiddos on a search for household items and hopefully keep them busy for at least 20 minutes. Head to Organized 31 to download the free version with four different versions.
The Savvy Sparrow has you covered with two neighborhood scavenger hunts: one for kids and the other for tweens and teens! Explore your neighborhood with fresh eye with these easy and free printables. Head to The Savvy Sparrow to download.
Pretty much the only thing you need to do is print out this adorable indoor scavenger hunt from The Pragmatic Parent and give the kiddos a crayon! The two-page printable can be laminated to use over and over is great for kids four to ten. Click here to download it for free.
Pantry Scavenger Hunt
Trying to keep the kiddos busy while you're trying to cook or just want to keep them busy period? Try this list of items to search for in your own pantry and click here to download our pantry essentials scavenger hunt.
When you head for Hot Springs, Arkansas, a charming town nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, you’ll find a vacation destination that is the perfect mix of American history and outdoor adventures that’s perfect for families. Whether you prefer to wander through the National Park and the historic Bathhouse Row, spend the day on one of three lakes or explore the surrounding forest, there’s something in “America’s First Resort” for everyone. We had a chance to explore the region, and we’ve come back with plenty of tips, so keep reading to see our ultimate guide to Hot Springs.
The History
Gabby Cullen
Hot Springs is nestled between Sugarloaf Mountain, Music Mountain and West, Hot Springs and North mountains. From the Paleo-Indians to the very first bathhouse built in 1830, the topography and draw of healing powers in this region are ancient. Everyone from Native Americans, pioneers, gangsters and baseball players have come searching for what ails them.
What to Do
Explore Hot Springs National Park
Gabby Cullen
If visiting the Hot Springs area, a day spent exploring the National Park is a must. Established as a national park in 1916, people have been coming to Hot Springs for hundreds of years. Bathhouse Row was designated as a Historic Landmark in 1974, and in 1989, the Fordyce Bathhouse opened as the park visitor center. You can wander through the entire building, which has been painstakingly restored to give the public a view into the past. See both the men’s and women’s sides of the bathhouse, view the stunning stained-glass windows, clothing and artifacts from the Edwardian era, and finally, the room, that in 1915, was the largest gym in Arkansas.
After wandering through the Fordyce, head up through the actual park grounds, where you’ll find spring water bubbling up from the ground, as well as the Grand Promenade, which is a paved ½ mile path that offers both nature and a stunning view of downtown Hot Springs. There are also trails that head into the mountainside of the park for the more adventurous.
A visit to the 210-acre outdoor space located on the outskirts of Hot Springs will take you a whole day, and you still might not see it all! Must-see highlights include the Bridge of the Full Moon and the koi pond in the Japanese Garden, the Evan Treehouse in the children’s area, the wildflower ridge, the miniature train that runs every day weather permitting and of course, George the peacock and his companions Ellie and Sabrina. A very special stop is the Anthony Chapel, an architectural wonder designed by Arkansas architects David McKee and Maurice Jennings. It soars six stories high, with marvelous glass windows, a vaulted glass and wood ceiling and 360-degree views of the forest and Lake Hamilton.
The strip of stores across from Bathhouse row has plenty of fun stops for families. Stop by the Toy Chest or one of the three candy stores that call Central Ave. home. There’s also the very impressive Gangster Museum of America, where you’ll learn all about the role that Hot Springs has played in the history of notorious crime figures like Al Capone, Owney Madden, Lucky Luciano, Frank Costello, Bonny and Klyde and many more.
Another cool thing do to in downtown Hot Springs is to follow the historic baseball trail. Spring Training was founded in Hot Springs, and luminous athletes such as Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Cy Young and Yogi Berra came to enjoy the restorative spring waters and get in shape for the next season.
Time on the Water
courtesy Bill Solleder
With three lakes in the area, a day spent fishing, or on a boat, kayak or paddleboard is a popular choice for families, especially in the summer! Hot Springs Marina has plenty of Tri-Toon rentals, and Ouachita Outdoor Outfitters is your go-to spot for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Where to Eat
The Pancake Shop
courtesy The Pancake Shop
When you step into The Pancake Shop, the first things you’ll notice are the friendly staff, the walls lined with Hot Springs history and the laid-back atmosphere. After that, the only thing you’ll be able to think about is the pancakes. Not much has changed since The Pancake Shop opened in 1940, and that’s a good thing. The sausage is sourced locally, the pancakes are made from scratch, and the portions are plentiful. Even if you have to wait for a table on the weekends (which is very likely), you can wander next door to The Savory Pantry, a gourmet food store, where you can grab a cup of coffee and wander the aisles until your table is ready.
Another amazing breakfast (or brunch or lunch!) spot is Best Café. Owned by the same proprietors that just opened The Reserve, this diner has tons of charm and plenty of good food. The creme brulee french toast is a favorite, as are the cinnamon rolls, but we also tried the avocado toast and highly recommend this as well. Located in a renovated motor lodge, this is definitely a hidden gem worth trying!
This fun spot is perfect for families. There’s a lot of space inside, and the staff is very accommodating to groups. There’s a fun vibe, and whether you want classic fajitas, something decadent like the shrimp and crab enchiladas or even a keto-friendly meal, you’ll find it at Taco Mama. If you like margaritas, be sure to try the champagne margarita!
If you plan on spending the day visiting the National Landmark District, be sure to plan on having lunch at Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Not only is it housed in one of the original bathhouses on Bathhouse Row, but it’s also the only brewery in a National Park, and it’s the only brewery that uses spring water to brew its beer. With a family-friendly vibe, the menu is the perfect mix of brewpub fare and locally sourced ingredients. There are usually 18 beers on tap, so consider getting an assortment of 4 oz. samplers.
People can be picky about their pizza, and so when we say some of the best (maybe THE best?) pizza in Arkansas, and some of the best in the country, can be found at Deluca's Pizzeria, then you best be sure to get dinner at this spot on your calendar when you visit Hot Springs. Made in the classic New York Style, the thin but soft crust is topped with fresh ingredients, including mozzarella, arugula, local meats and more. As a bonus, they also serve incredible pasta and quite possibly the most simple but most delicious cheeseburger ever!
With a recent total renovation, the DoubleTree by Hilton is a great spot for families. Not only is it a pet-friendly spot, but it’s right on the Lake, with an outdoor pool, fire pits, Adirondack chairs for lounging and even a dock for those who want to drop their kayak and head out on the water. They aren’t currently doing a buffet breakfast, but the menu options for a sit-down meal or room service are ample. The property is also very close to downtown Hot Springs, so getting around is easy.
With the world slowly returning to normal, Disney Cruise line is in full prep mode for its 2021 and 2022 sailing season. That’s right, festive holiday cruises await!
Get ready for Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises, including on the all-new Disney Wish in 2022. With five ships in the fleet ready to set sail, there are plenty of options for guests from around the world.
Cruises will depart from Florida, New York, Texas and California, with options for both the ’21 and ’22 season.
Halloween on the High Seas is available for this season in October of this year and returns in mid-September through October 2022. Travelers will be able to catch their fave Disney characters decked out in Halloween costumes, ghostly decor, a magical Pumpkin tree, Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party, thematic food, beverages and crafts and be able to dress up.
Set sail on a Very Merrytime Cruise in November and December for both the 2021 and 2022 season. This festive cruise is packed with everyone decked out in holiday garb, plenty of music, food, decor and of course, Santa Claus.
Bookings for the 2022 cruise season opens to the public Jun. 24, 2021 at disneycruise.com.
Dueling deals! Walmart has announced Deals for Days from June 20-23, stretching one day longer than Amazon Prime Day and Target’s Deal Days. And the retailer offered a sneak peek at some of the hottest bargains that will be available.
If you’re looking to up your housecleaning game, the iHome Nova Auto Empty Mopping Robot will be half off, at $299 (originally $599). You can grab a 40 inch smart LED TV for $178 from Hisense (originally $228). And a fun tech toy for kids, the Little Tikes Tobi Robot smartwatch, will be only $24.50 (originally $49). There will be plenty of other deals on the most in-demand categories, like electronics, fashion, toys and home goods.
Walmart is also offering free same-day delivery, two-day shipping and next-day shipping. If you have a Walmart Plus membership, two days shipping is free, though the deals are open to everyone. And you’ll also be able to find deals in the store, with rollback items you can only get with in-person shopping.
Now that three of the biggest retailers have jumped into the deal day game, you’ll have plenty of options online and in person. Hot tip: start checking off some Christmas wish list items now and your December self will thank you!
Musical fan? Or maybe just a huge fan of Lin-Manuel Miranda? Then you’ll want to run, not walk to YouTube because the writer, actor and director is sharing something special.
This morning, Miranda shared the first eight minutes of the much anticipated film version of his 2005 Tony Award-winning musical, In the Heights. Keep scrolling to watch!
The film adaptation stars plenty of big names, including Hamilton alums Anthony Ramos and Lin-Manuel Miranda himself. In addition, you’ll spy Jimmy Smits, Marc Anthony and Corey Hawkins to name a few.
In the Heights hits theaters this Fri., Jun. 11 and is available on HBO Max for 30 days.
The day has finally come! Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is now open!
After a year-long delay due to Covid, the Avengers are ready to assemble at their new home. Red Tricycle got into the new land a day early and got all the details on attractions, character experiences and of course, food. Keep scrolling to see all the details!
The new home of the Marvel Universe superheroes lies on the old site of Bug’s Land, adjacent to Radiator Springs. Guests can enter next to the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction or across from the Grizzly Run waterfalls.
The wide-berthed campus means plenty of space to oogle at the hundreds of tiny details and catch a prime view of Spider-Man literally swinging around, not to mention the Quin jet atop HQ.
The sprawling campus also means plenty of options for interacting with your fave Marvel character. While health and safety protocols are still very much in place, and you may not actually get a hug from Loki, you can still spy plenty of heroes at HQ, the Sanctum or hanging around the Worldwide Engineering Brigade, known as WEB.
When it comes to attractions, every member of the family will want to snag a spot in the virtual queue for WEB SLINGERS, the brand new ride and the first to feature Spider-Man. Pop on a pair of 3D glasses, then get your webs slinging on this interactive ride where you need to help Peter Parker take down the ever-multiplying Spider Bots!
There are plenty of tasty options for food and drinks at the new campus. For sit-down dining, check out the Pym Tasting Kitchen, where we have personally sampled everything on the menu and can attest: it’s all delicious!
The best part? The oversized portions make it great for sharing. Adults can also get beer, wine and beer cocktails next door at the Pym Tasting Lab, where you can also watch the magic of a reverse tap fill your beer from bottom to top.
There are two additional food carts that offer Shawarma and dessert options, all of which have plenty of Avenger film inspiration.
While the Avengers Campus boasts only one new attraction, the brand new space is the first of its kind to bring the Marvel Universe together. Take your time taking in all the detail, enjoying the best food the resort has to offer and getting as close as possible to your heroes.
Top three things parents with younger kiddos need to know?
Wear lots of sunscreen. Since the campus is on the newer side, you won’t find a ton of shade from mature trees. The hot California sun knows no bound on warm days!
Be aware that the vast Marvel universe contains some bad guys. There will be times when scarier characters like Taskmaster will battle your heroes, which could be a little dramatic.
WEB SLINGERS will operate like Rise of the Resistance, where guests must use the Disneyland app to get a spot in a boarding group. No boarding group = no riding! Be sure to try for a spot at 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Whenever you get the chance to visit, tell the Avengers we said hi!
There’s competition in the plant decor market—ALDI is releasing several cute new options in June! In keeping with the chain’s normal discounts, all are quite the bargain, too.
Fairy Castle Cactus
ALDI
Over the month the company will roll out various green options across stores. Look for this whimsical Fairy Castle Cactus for $3.89 starting on June 2!
Money Tree
ALDI
For a bit more of a challenge, see if you can find the Money Tree when it comes out on June 23. It's petite at five inches tall, with plenty of room to grow.
Fiddle Leaf, Snake Plant, Dragon Tree
ALDI
Even more plants will come your way June 30: a Fiddle Leaf Fig, Snake Plant, or Dragon Tree. They're all six inches tall and $6.99 each in neutral white pots.
Air Plants
ALDI
Don't forget the most delightful option of all, the air plants! These are a steal at $2.99 each and perfect if you don't have much of a green thumb. Plus those pineapple pots are totally adorable. You'll also be able to find them starting June 30.
If you’re not a plant person, there’s plenty more to find at ALDI in June, from inflatable waterparks to unicorn cones. And with locations all over the country, you’re probably closer to one than you think!
