ML Interest Tag: bring-snacks

7 Cool Spots for Playing in the Snow near San Diego

by Bonnie Taylor

Thanks to an earlier-than-normal winter storm, finding snow near me is more than just a fantasy

It may not snow in San Diego, but when the weather gets chilly you don’t have to go far to find it. There’s so much fun for kids (both little and big) to have in the nearby mountains that goes beyond just skiing and snowboarding—see below for a few of our favorite go-to spots that will surely make your winter bucket list. Here you’ll find the best snow tube parks and sledding, magic carpets and gondolas to ride. So get your winter gear in order, grab some chains—now’s the time for an unforgettably fun day in the snow in Southern California.

1. Big Bear

Slide into fun at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at the top of Snow Summit in Big Bear. The whole family young and old alike will love whizzing down the snowy hills on high-speed tubes. Ride the magic carpet up to the top before sliding down one of three 300-ft tubing lanes. Ride again and again during your 1.5-hour time slot.

880 Summit Blvd.
Big Bear Lake
Online: bigbearmountainresort.com

Related: Why Big Bear Is a Family Favorite Destination

2. Mammoth Mountain

Snowmobile adventures, tubing, and cross country skiing await you on Mammoth Mountain. Cruise through tree-lined meadows on a guided snowmobile excursion or catch a lift to the top for Woolly's Tube Park and snow tube your way back down. You can click into some Nordic skis or snowshoes to get a workout exploring Lakes Basin on a cross country adventure. 

10001 Minaret Rd.
Mammoth Lakes
Online: mammothmountain.com

Related: See Why Our Editors Love Going to Mammoth with Kids

3. Mountain High

Your little snow angels will squeal with delight at Yeti's Snow Play. Here you'll find some of SoCal's best snowtubing, sledding, and snow play...as well as a friendly Yeti who's willing to pose for pics. The snow play area is open only for kids 36” tall and under, while those over 36” tall can go sledding, tubing, and ride the gondola up to the top! Kids between 32” and 36” can snow tube with a paid parent on a separate tube.

24510 State Hwy. 2
Wrightwood
Online: mthigh.com

4. Mount Laguna

You’ll be able to cool down on top of this mountain about an hour due east of San Diego. When you head up, there are plenty of turn-off spots, but it does get crowded. Along with your boots and mittens, you’ll want to bring some snacks, a full tank of gas, and some snow chains.

10678 Sunrise Hwy.
Mt. Laguna
Online: lagunamountain.com

5. Julian

You’ll have to wait for just the right time, but every year a good northern storm can drop snow in Julian. Watch the weather reports, then drive up right after it snows. Google "snow sled near me" and you'll find this is the best place to tackle small snow hills and then warm up with some hot apple pie in town. Remember, the snow melts quickly around Julian.

Good to Know: Please only park in designated lots and not on residents’ yards and sides of the road. Also please pack out what you bring in. Many times the town has to clean up after visitors. This is a problem every year, so please be considerate in this small town.

Jess Martin Park
2955 Hwy. 79
Julian

William Heise Park
4945 Heise Park Rd.
Julian

Lake Cuyamaca
15027 Hwy. 79
Julian

Online: lakecuyamaca.org
Online: visitjulian.com

6. Palomar Mountain

Find the magic of snow on Palomar Mountain just North of San Diego. Bundle up to make snowmen and snow angels or toboggan down a snow hill. Dress warmly and you may want to pack an insulated thermos of hot water and cocoa packets to enjoy on the way home.

9952 State Park Rd.
Palomar
Online: palomarmountian.gov

7. Idyllwild

Whether you take the day or a weekend trip, you’ll be glad you drove (about two hours) up to Idyllwild. Here, you’ll find a cute mountain town where you can take a winter hike, sled, or just walk around the town after fresh snow. There are plenty of cute shops to look at and places to eat too.

Online: idyllwild.com

Related: Discover More Places to Play in the Snow in SoCal

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Where to Buy Your Christmas Tree in San Diego

by Beth Shea

The 2022 guide to buying a Christmas tree in San Diego is here—whether you’re looking for a pre-cut tree or a U-cut Christmas tree—it’s all inside

Christmas tree farms have that magic ability to instantly ignite memory-making opportunities and put a smile on your kiddos’ face. Most lots and farms offer real Christmas trees for sale the day after Thanksgiving and is considered the unofficial kick-off to holiday celebrations before visiting San Diego holiday lights, taking a photo with Santa, and of course, attending all those must-see nearby holiday events. These family-owned, U-cut Christmas tree farms know how to make the journey of tree-picking merry and bright. From full-service Christmas tree farms near San Diego to our favorite San Diego Christmas tree lots—here’s where to pick the perfect pine (or fir!) near San Diego.

Where to Buy Christmas Trees Near Me

1. Family Christmas Tree Farm

This ten-acre, family-owned farm in El Cajon offers native California Monterey Pine trees and also provide the saw for cutting and the twine to secure the tree to your car. In addition to the U-cut Christmas tree experience, there’s an abundance of pre-cut tree varieties (Douglas, Grand, Noble & Nordmann Fir) as well as potted trees (including Rosemary) and wreaths to choose from. Shaking is free, and for a small fee, netting and stands are available as well. Don't forget to pick up your mistletoe and cinnamon brooms here too!

300 Pepper Dr.
El Cajon
Online: familychristmastreefarm.com

2. Sand Haven Pines Christmas Tree Farm

The drive to Sand Haven Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Perris is worth the time and effort. Here you can cut down your pick of a beautiful Monterey Pine tree, the kids get a free candy cane and you'll get a free cup of coffee. If you need a hand, the staff will also cut and carry your tree, shake it clean, net it for transport, drill a hold in it for the tree stand, install the tree stand, flock your tree if desired, and even tie it to your car for the trip home. A variety of potted Christmas trees are also available—so you can plant it in your yard after the holidays and enjoy it forever. Don't forget to print out the discount coupon found on their website.

Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 19

19255 Wood Rd.
Perris
Online: sandhavenpines.com

3. Highland Valley Christmas Tree Farm 

Tree cutting and wine? Yes, please! Check out this Ramona farm where there's also a whimsical winery on-site—the Principe di Tricase Winery where you can taste wine by the glass or the bottle.  They have Monterey Pine and Leyland Cypress varieties with sizes ranging from 3 to over 12 foot tall trees, and once you've picked your perfect pine or fir, you can cut it down yourself or, they’ll come cut it for you. In addition to cutting your tree, they offer shaking, drilling and netting for free. There's also a petting zoo, small train ride, children's workshops, hot cider, mulled wine, coffee and hot cocoa bombs, and live music on the weekends.

18425 Highland Valley Rd.
Ramona
Online: pineandwine.com

4. Pine Tree Acres

Another Ramona-based Christmas tree farm, this spot has been doling out Christmas trees for the past ten years. In addition to Grand, Doublas, Nobels, and Frazier firs that are trucked down from Oregon, you can cut your own Monterey Pine Christmas tree on the farm. They provide handsaws but you can also call in an expert to help or cut it down for you. If you like the idea of a potted Christmas tree (you can plant it after the holidays if you'd like), they have Monterey, Aleppo and Deodar Cedar varieties. Netting is available for $2. 

Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 25

620 Haverford Rd.
Ramona
Online: pinetreeacresramon.wixsite.com

The Best Christmas Tree Lots in San Diego

5. Mr. Jingle's Christmas Trees

Mr. Jingle's Christmas Trees is a pop-up tree lot as opposed to a farm, but if you're not up for chopping down your tree this year, this is a great place to pick out a fresh Christmas tree closer to home. With three locations in San Diego: Clairemont/Pacific Beach, Balboa Park, and La Jolla, there are plenty of options to pick up your Christmas tree nearby. Mr. Jingle's offers Douglas, Nordmann, and Noble firs in a wide variety of sizes (from 2-to-17-feet), as well as wreaths, garland and decorating accessories. They also offer online ordering and tree delivery or pick-up.

Locations: Clairemont/Pacific Beach, Balboa Park, and La Jolla
Online: mrjingleschristmastrees.com

6. Pinery Christmas Trees

Another pop-up Christmas tree lot, Pinery Christmas Tree lots are conveniently located all over San Diego in Bonita, Del Mar Horsepark, Rancho Bernardo, Murrieta, and Mission Valley. This year they're offering the options to shop on location or to opt for home delivery. Here you'll find fresh cut Nordmann, Noble, Grand and Douglas fir varieties. Make sure to print their $5 off coupon from their website.

Locations: Bonita, Del Mar Horsepark, Rancho Bernardo, Murrieta, and Mission Valley
Online: pinerychristmastrees.com

Tips For a Successful U-Cut Christmas Tree Experience

If you usually get your tree from a lot but are ready to head out into the field, we’ve got a few tips for you:

1. Leave the compact car at home and instead bring the family truck or SUV to accommodate your freshly chopped tree. Bring a tarp, old sheet or blanket to put in the trunk to catch the needles and sap. You can also put the sheet to use on the roof of your car if you are going to tie it down.

2. Most farms have some rope or twine but it never hurts to bring your own to make sure you can tie it down securely before you head home. Even if it costs extra, spring for the wrapping on-site if the farm offers this service.

3. Bring snacks and water. Cutting down your own tree is some serious sweaty business, so be sure to eat and stay hydrated (for both kids and adults).

4. The farms usually provide a small hand saw for your use. If you have a better tool at home, bring it.

5. Charge those phones and cameras because you’re going to want to capture this family tradition.

Good to Know: The annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program begins the day after Christmas, Dec. 26, through Jan. 23, and features 17 drop-off locations available to San Diego city residents. Save our handy guide for your Christmas tree pick up schedule, where to drop off and how you can even recycle those Christmas lights.

 

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The Best Ways to Prevent Holiday Meltdowns (According to Experts)

by Melissa Heckscher

Your little sugarplums may be squarely on Santa’s “nice” list—but all bets are off when they’re hungry and tired and waiting in a 45-minute line to see the Big Guy himself. Of course, teaching your child coping skills takes time, so we talked to an expert who gave us a moment-by-moment cheat sheet for handling those big emotions during the holidays. Keep reading for tips on how to keep your holiday helpers happy.

When You're Holiday Shopping

Search Engine People Blog via flickr

The Trigger: Crowds, temptation (TOYS!), overstimulation

“The holidays are kind of like going to war when you have kids,” said Kathina Firme, a California school psychologist who specializes in treating preschoolers. “Toddlers can get really overstimulated. It’s the people, the noise, the traffic. They just aren’t able to regulate themselves. You have to plan for that.”  

The Solution: Get to the stores earlier in the day to avoid crowds. Before you go in, lay out the ground rules: (i.e. if you want to allow “just one small treat," explain that they have to stay close, etc.). “You can prevent a lot of tantrums by looking at the triggers," said Firme, who worked as a consultant on a genius go-to kit called Tantrum Fix, which comes with an assortment of items to help little ones calm down, mid-meltdown (and the proper language to use before they start simmering). “Most of those things, it’s like, ‘OK you’re hungry. You’re tired. You’re uncomfortable. It’s the same as adults but it’s more exaggerated because they can’t express that.”

Another tip: “You can prevent a lot of tantrums by meeting their basic needs,” Firme said. Be sure to bring snacks, and don’t be afraid to rely on electronics. If the grocery cart is the only place you let your little one loose with an iPad, lose the guilt. If it keeps everyone happy (and it’s limited), it’s all good, Firme said.

If you've got older kids, let them help find things at the store! Give them a scavenger hunt-style list of items to find and let them cruise the aisles. (Psst—we've got some great ones!)

When You're Waiting in Line to See Santa

Photo by Mike Arney on Unsplash

The Trigger: Waiting for something exciting (OMG, Santa!). Crowds.

The Solution: Make the waiting part of the fun—play a game. Need ideas? Check out the Miami Seaquarium’s great list of line games for kids.

When You're at a Sibling's Holiday Show

Douglas Easterly via flickr

The Trigger: Boredom. Attention is on the sibling. Hunger if the show is during dinnertime hours or tiredness if the show is at night.

The Solution: Distraction—and backup. Bring something for the child to do during the show or snack on in case he gets bored (lollipops work well because they're quiet, kids love them and they last longer than, say, fruit snacks). Sit near an aisle so you or your partner can make an easy exit if your little one just can’t sit still.  

When You're at a Holiday Party

Cavalier92 via flickr

The Trigger: Overstimulation. Too many faces/people. Staying up past bedtime.

The Solution: If you know the party is going to go late, try to get your child to take a nap earlier in the day. Then, once you're at the party, try to steer end-of-the-night activities toward something more mellow (like a movie or coloring). When it's time to go, don't do long goodbyes, just get out while your kiddo is still in a good mood.

For older kids, try one of our awesome holiday scavenger hunts to keep them busy so you can mingle with the fam.

When You're Grocery Shopping/Waiting in a Checkout Line

Jaro Larnos via flickr

The Trigger: Waiting. Boredom.  

The Solution: Keep children busy while you're waiting (see above link for line games). "I Spy" is an easy go-to game for little ones—as are these free printable scavenger hunts. Let kids help do the shopping by giving them things to put in the cart, or having them load the conveyer belt when it's time to pay. Praise them for being "helpers."

When You Drop Your Child Off at School/Daycare

Tarah Tamayo via flickr

The Trigger: Anticipation of later events, parties, gifts, etc. Lack of sleep.

The Solution: Pack special "surprises" in your child's lunchbox, so she has something to look forward to during the school day. These can be special holiday snacks, a special note or a small toy (if that's OK with your child's teacher).

When You're on the Long Drive (or Flight) to Grandma's House

oddharmonic via flickr

The Trigger: Boredom.

The Solution: Plan for the trip by making a special bag of treats/activities for the drive. These can be anything from a special holiday movie to a box of tiny wrapped toys (Dollar Store toys are totally fine!). If you need more ideas, see our list of simple air travel hacks for kids.

—Melissa Heckscher

RELATED STORIES: 

The Best Ways to Prevent Meltdowns (At Every Age!)

10 Secrets to Dealing with Tantrums

How to Prepare for Holiday Air Travel Delays With Kids

Feature photo: Jessica Lucia via Flickr 

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Happy Trails: Tips for Hiking with Your Baby

by Haley Burress
Partner Content

Hitting the trail can be more than just a fun way for your family to spend an afternoon. Fresh air can improve your health and your mood, and kids are never too young to learn how to respect and enjoy nature. So find your trail and follow these tips on how to hike with your baby.

photo: Scott Sherrill Mix via Flickr

Pick a Nearby Trail
Infants aren’t always big fans of hours spent riding in the car, so keep your trail choice nearby. You can hike your local nature preserve or search for a trail within a 50-mile radius with an app like AllTrails. If you can’t decide on a trail near you, ask friends for recommendations.

Slather on the Sunscreen
Even if you’re hiking on tree-covered trails, it’s still important to protect baby’s skin. Use your favorite sunscreen (on babies over 6 months) and apply it as often as necessary. And put baby in a sun hat. It will protect their face and make for some awfully cute photos.

Ditch the Stroller (If Possible)
Strollers, even durable jogging versions, are not the best option for trail hiking. Not only can the rocky trails bump baby around, it can be taxing for parents to push the stroller up hills and through water. Instead, wear baby in your favorite carrier or in a hiking backpack. Pro tip: If you’re using a new carrier, test it out before your hike to make sure you and your baby will be comfortable using it.

photo: Jens Johnsson via Unsplash

Bring Snacks
Even if you’re just planning a 30-minute hike, pack for a hungry baby. If your little one is breastfeeding, bring items to make you both feel comfortable if you have to nurse on the trail (like a lovey for baby to hold or a cushion for you to sit on). For a baby who drinks formula, bring pre-measured formula in a bottle and water to mix it with. If baby is eating solids, toss a few pouches, puffs or other favorite snacks into your backpack as well. Also, bring something for Mom and Dad too!

Pack Enough, But Not Too Much
Speaking of packing, try to keep it light (we know; it’s hard). Baby needs a few diapers, wipes and a pacifier, but maybe skip the favorite blanket, teething toys or a tablet, or leave those items in the car for the ride home. Focus on necessities and remember that you won’t be gone for too long.

Stop Often
Hiking with an infant (or a toddler, or an elementary schooler) should include plenty of stops. Dip baby’s toes into stream water, bend down to examine a leaf, spend time touching rocks. These sensory experiences are excellent learning opportunities for kids and gives them time to stretch their legs or arms before heading back into the carrier. A well-timed stop can be the perfect cure for a meltdown, or a special time to enjoy a snack together.

photo: Marcelo Silva via Unsplash

Take Photos
Bring your cell phone or camera so you can document your family’s adventure! Shoot a family selfie at the trailhead, as well as a few of baby enjoying the outing, discovering the breeze or holding their first pine cone.

Talk and Sing
Family time on the trail means you ditch the technology and focus on one another. Take advantage of this family interaction by talking and singing. Baby is listening and learning, and you and your partner have a chance to chat and get to know what’s happening in each other’s lives.

Ask for Help
People who hike and enjoy the outdoors are typically kind and helpful folks. If you find yourself feeling lost, unsafe or in need of some assistance (is that greenery by the trailhead poison ivy?), don’t hesitate to ask. Find another family who may be able to loan you a diaper, or seek out a park ranger.

What’s your favorite part of enjoying the outdoors with baby? Let us know in the comments. 

— Haley Burress

RELATED STORIES:

Be Sun Smart With Baby: 10 Summer Safety Tips to Follow

8 Baby Must-Haves When Adventure Awaits

Summer’s Here! 8 Awesome Outdoor Activities for Babies

 

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10 Skiing Tricks to Memorize Before Hitting the Slopes

by Kate Loweth

The kids are itching to hit the ski slopes but you are overwhelmed by the logistics of it all—we get it! Whether it’s their first time or if you’ve got a future Lindsey Vonn on your hands, read through this list of skiing hacks and tips before you head to the resort. After all, the more prepped you are, the more awesome the experience for the whole family. Keep reading to see them all.

photo: Smuggler’s Notch

1. Make your own “bunny hill” first. Ski gear is bulky and unfamiliar. Get it ready in advance, and let the kids try it out in your living room first. If you are staying at a ski resort or house with a small snow hill outside, use that for some practice “runs” before you spend the big bucks on the lift tickets. 

2. Get the right gear (& where to get it). Sizing for kids’ ski gear can be tricky. Consider renting your boots and skis before you leave home (which is often a cheaper option), borrow from a friend or hit up the thrift store when you arrive at your destination. Mittens are easier for kids to use than gloves, and make sure you get the ones that can clip on their jacket as nothing can stop a ski day faster than a lost mitten!

photo: Squaw Valley

3. Pick the right resort. The biggest and most popular resort might not be the best for your beginning skier. A beginner slope with a tow rope or “magic carpet” lift is great for kids as they don’t have to learn how to negotiate the chairlift. Many resorts offer other non-skiing amenities like tubing, hot tubs and campfire s’mores that bump up the fun level for your ski vacation.

4. Don’t plan a full first day. A good rule of thumb for kids is that most can tolerate one hour of skiing per year of their age (so three hours max for your three-year-old). If you keep this rule in mind, you won’t exhaust them and turn them off skiing for the rest of your trip. 

5. Ditch the poles. Kids learning to ski need to develop basic skills like creating a wedge to stop and learning how to turn. Poles are often more of a distraction for kids so ditch ’em for the newbies. If you’re going to teach your kids to ski there are tethers you can use that attach to the tips of the skis to help your kids keep the pizza pie shape as they ski down the hill. 

photo: Jeff Curtes/Squaw Valley

6. Splurge on private lessons or ski school. You know how your kids behave better for a stranger than they do when they are with you? The same is often true when learning to ski. Splurging on ski school or private ski lessons can take the pressure off you and make the lesson more fun for your new skier. Plus, many ski lessons include the price of the lift tickets or offer free skiing for younger kids. 

7. Fill your pockets (& backpack) with all the essential gear.

  • Chapstick. Not only does it keep chapped lips at bay, it is great when treating mountain-side windburn or even preventing friction on a spot that’s prone to blisters. If your jacket’s zipper gets jammed, lubricate both sides with Chapstick and get it moving again.
  • Carabiners and zip ties. These are great for attaching mittens, ski passes, goggles and more so that they don’t get left behind on the mountain.
  • Sunscreen. Bring a pocket-sized tube or squirt some into a contact lens case before you go. The sun on the mountain can get super intense and you don’t want anyone to burn!
  • Ziploc bags. Mountainside injury? No problem! Fill your Ziploc with some packed snow while you wait for ski patrol to come to your aid.
  • Hot cocoa packs and tea bags. Warm up at the lodge and just pay for hot water!
  • Your lunch. Bring snacks and pack in food to avoid expensive purchases. 
  • Sweet Treats Sugary motivation is sometimes the only way you can get a tired kid down the mountain so be prepared.

photo: Jeff Engerbretson/Squaw Valley

8. Prep for day two. When you’re done for the day, immediately put hats, gloves, boots, etc. near the heater so they can warm up overnight. Tuck dryer sheets into your boots to absorb any offending odors. When you get up to make your coffee in the morning, pop hand warmers in your boots so that you can have toasty toes when you gear up.

9. Safety first. It might not be how we grew up skiing, but helmets are a must in this day and age, for kids and parents alike. Make sure your crew has their noggins covered in well-fitting helmets so that a bump on the head doesn’t mean an end to your ski day.

10. If all else fails, outsource. Don’t let the packing overwhelm you. Companies like Kit Lender and Ski Butlers are ready to ship whatever gear you need, right to your ski destination.

 

—Kate Loweth

RELATED STORIES

The BEST Ski Resorts for Beginner Skiers

11 Next-Level Sleds You Need in Your Life

7 Stylish Winter Boots for Kids

Winter Hacks: How to Buy The Right Ski Gear for Kids

 

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10 Signs You’re a Falls Church Parent

by Katie Brown

Yes, other parents lust after your school district, and you live in one of the few ‘burbs served by two Metro stops. But you also have pizza, the Easter Bunny, and higher taxes. Wait, what? Here are 10 signs you’re a Falls Church parent:

Photo: Pupatella

1. You live within a toddler meltdown’s drive of two highly-favored and oft-recommended pizzeria/Italian joints (Pupatella and Pizzeria Orso). Both you and your mozzarella-smothered three-year-old feel pretty good about that.

2. When you drive past a sea of parked mini-vans at Mary Riley Styles Library, you know those parents didn’t get the inside scoop on a surprise Taylor Swift concert—it’s Story Time, and yeah…the librarians make “Little Blue Truck” THAT good.

Photo: The State Theater

3. Your kids know that, when you start singing “Manic Monday” and “Love Shack” ad nauseam, they’ve got a date with the babysitter and you and your 80s-baby spouse have a date with The Legwarmers at The State Theater.

4. Your teenagers attend the fifth best public high school in the country (George Mason High School). Did someone say college scholarship?

Photo: Falls Church

5. Your kids can never decide which of the 2.2 square mile-city’s 12 parks they feel like swinging on today.

6. You might as well save the chia seed oatmeal for another day and accept that, on Saturday mornings at the Farmers Market, your children will gorge on Donut Heaven’s pumpkin donuts. You might also have one.

 

Photo: Doodlehopper

7. You might as well send your kids’ allowance direct deposit to Doodlehopper.

8. You know that, if you want your kids to take a picture with the Easter Bunny after the egg hunt in Cherry Hill Park, you’re going to have to put on your game face, lock your elbows, and bring snacks for the wait. But it’s so worth it.

Photo: Falls Church

9. When your teenager wants to cover her frenemy’s lawn with pink plastic flamingos or your 4th grader is preparing for the annual science fair, you eschew Home Depot and head to Brown’s Hardware.

10. If it’s too hot outside, you bring your kids to Mobu. If it’s too cold outside, you bring your kids to…Mobu.

What did we miss? Tell us in the comments below. 

—Katie Brown

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Now Open: Urban Jungle Fun Park is San Diego’s Newest Indoor Play Space

by Brooke Hausman

Jump! Crawl! Climb! Slide! Run! Play! You can do all that and more at San Diego’s newest indoor play space that kids are loving! Urban Jungle Fun Park in Santee is packed full of activities including a trampoline court, gigantic play structure, huge slide, and an inflatable obstacle course. Whether you’re planning your kiddo’s next birthday party there, or just going for a day of play, everyone will have a roaring good time.

The Jungle Fun
What makes Urban Jungle unique from other indoor play spots is the facility is designed for little tykes and big kid too. There’s a trampoline court, a 14-level enormous play structure, and a towering 4-lane rock wall. Kids can also slide down the massive four-lane slide or run through an inflatable obstacle course. There are also wall-sized video games if physical exertion isn’t for your kiddo. Little tykes under 40 inches or 45 pounds can play on most of the equipment the big kids use, so long as a parent is there to help out.

We suggest checking out Urban Tot, a special weekday playtimes just for little tigers. For $10 admission (includes one kiddo and adult), the activities and climbing structures are geared solely to those ages 5 and under. Urban Tot takes place Tuesday – Thursday, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Parent Jungle
Parents are not forgotten at Urban Jungle! There is plenty of space for you to entertain yourselves while the kids jump to their hearts’ content. Multiple parent lounges come with comfy seating, free Wi-Fi, televisions, and outlets to plug into in case you need to get some work done. Of course, if you want to join in on the fun your kids are having, go for it! All of the entertainment is built for adults too. Keep in mind parents can only participate in activities with a paid admission.

Party Like a Monkey
Urban Jungle has  two party rooms available for your next birthday party or special event. Since the rooms are just behind the trampoline and jungle gym, they’re easy access and out of the way. Parties last two hours and booking in advance as a group will give you some great savings.

Looking for something to do as a family date night? Spend an evening playing together at Urban Jungle’s Family Night. For $29 for a family of four, your crew (and you!) can jump, slide and climb for 90 minutes. Family Night takes place Mondays from 4 – 8 p.m.

Insider’s Tips

  • If you visit Urban Jungle on a weekend, get there early because parking is limited and it can be tough to find a space.
  • Urban Jungle allows you to bring snacks from home. There’s a Snack Shack in case you want something more to eat.
  • If you’re visiting Urban Tot playtime for the first time, make sure you let the staff know since your first visit is free for one kiddo and parent ($2 off for the sibling)!

Urban Jungle Fun Park
8711 N. Magnolia #300
Santee, Ca‎ 92071
619-334-6107
Online: urbanjunglefunpark.com

Have you been to Urban Jungle yet? What do you like about it?

— Brooke Hausman (photos too)

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An Insiders Guide to the Hollywood Christmas Parade

by Christina Montoya Fiedler

Nobody celebrates the holidays with as much panache as we do here in La La Land. Magic and mystery are our specialties!  So with Thanksgiving but a belly full of memories, it’s time to launch into Christmas with an LA tradition: the 83rd annual Hollywood Christmas Parade. With Stevie Wonder as this year’s Grand Marshall and tons of floats, marching bands, celebs and Santa himself, it’s the perfect way to start the season.


photo credit: Yelp user Tracy Ann M.

The Parade 411
Taking place on Sunday November 30 at 5 p.m., the parade starts on Hollywood Blvd at Orange then travels east to Vine, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange. The route is shaped like a big “u”.

Good to Know: A popular kid friendly location is at the corner of Selma and Vine. The bathrooms are nice and clean at the Trader Joe’s—and you can grab a snack, or extra gallon of milk on your way home. Plus there’s an ATM there for access to quick cash.


photo credit: Hollywood Christmas Parade’s facebook page

Admission and Parking
General admission is free. Just show up and grab a spot anywhere on the parade route. But be sure to get there with plenty of time to park and get a good spot. Plan to arrive about 45 minutes before the parade starts, so you aren’t rushing.

If you want an actual seat, you can pre-order Grandstand Seating tickets now. Tickets range anywhere from $25 to $85 and can be purchased here. (If you ask us, camping out and bundling up is half the fun!  But we know that you may be bringing older relatives who need a guaranteed seat.)

You can always try your luck at street parking, but we recommending paying a few bucks extra to park.  The aforementioned TJs is one spot, or there’s plenty of parking at the Hollywood and Highland garage.  With the parade taking over the streets, parking is scarce.

Good to know: Exit the parking structure at H&H at street level for access to the parade route. While you’re there, make a bee line for the nearby bathrooms. Trust us, it will be better than the parade’s port-a-potties.


                                                photo credit: Hollywood Christmas Parade’s facebook page

What You’ll See
Keep your eyes glued on the route for larger than life floats, equestrian groups, classic cars, dozens of award winning marching bands, and more. And it wouldn’t be Hollywood without a few celeb sightings. Check the official parade website for a full list of who’s who; it’s growing by the day. It’s all topped off with a visit from Stevie Wonder, and then Santa himself.

Good to Know: Early birds can catch a glimpse of the LAPD motorcycle brigade who put on quite the show with their fancy tricks and flashy sirens. This goes down about 20 minutes before the parade actually starts.

photo credit: Hollywood Christmas Parade’s facebook page

What to Bring
60 degrees feels cold to our SoCal babies, so don’t forget to bring some blankets and jackets. Low back chairs are allowed. Also remember to bring snacks and a thermos with something warm like hot chocolate, cider or soup. (The Hollywood pizza shops are tasty, but crowded and not-so-healthy!)

Good to Know: There’s a Starbucks on the corner of Vine and Hollywood Blvd. where you can grab a cup of joe to go. There’s also a huge Walgreen’s on the Vine and Sunset corner that sells awesome sushi and fresh juices, if you need a healthy snack or tissues or any other last minute essentials.

Online: thehollywoodchristmasparade.org

-Christina Fiedler

What’s the one event that you wouldn’t miss each holiday season? We want to know, in the comments below.

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All Aboard! Take a Ride On D.C.’s Favorite Santa Train

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Hop aboard for a fun and festive railroad excursion with Santa, Mrs. Claus and a whole bunch of little elves. For one day only (Dec. 13), you and the kids are invited to join thousands of other DMV-ers for The Santa Train, one of the metro region’s most popular holiday events and part of the VRE’s Operation Lifesaver campaign to promote train safety.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

A Jolly Good Time
Take a seat and prepare to be awed. Santa’s helpers will walk through the train cars handing out candy canes and coloring books, while high school choral groups sing holiday tunes. Then here comes a very jolly Santa and Mrs. Claus, ready to pose for your camera. There is no time for your little ones to sit on Santa’s lap and list all the treasures they hope to see under the tree, but don’t worry, Santa definitely aims to please and the kids love being part of such festive fun. Don’t forget that the purpose of the Santa Train is to promote train safety, so if you’ve got a couple of train lovers on your hands, point out the lessons promoted in the coloring books Santa’s helpers are handing out. The Operation Lifesaver campaign also works in conjunction with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program so be sure to bring a toy for a child in need and drop it off at the station before you board.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

Next Stop…
Trains depart from Fredericksburg, Manassas, Burke Center and Woodbridge Stations. All trains head north up past Quantico and then turn around. The entire ride is about 45 minutes long. While you’re waiting for Santa and his elves to come to your train car, enjoy Virginia’s stunning countryside from the train’s windows, ripe with old farmhouses and barns.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

Inside Scoop
Tickets for this extremely popular event go on sale at 9 am Nov. 24. You can buy them at outlets or online. Tickets are $5 at outlets and $6 online, with net proceeds benefiting Operation Lifesaver. When we say this is an extremely popular event, we mean it. Online tickets sell out almost instantly (last year, all 7,500 tickets sold out in 12 minutes!
) so unless you’re a computer wizard, the best way to guarantee tickets is to stand in line at the Fredericksburg Visitor’s Center. Wear your hat, scarf and gloves and get there before 9 am to secure a spot. Prepare to pay cash (or check), because credit cards are not accepted. Everyone needs a ticket to board the train (parents and tots), and your purchase is limited to six tickets.

Photo: The Bavarian Chef via Facebook

Feeling Peckish?
There is no food on the train (other than candy canes), but you are welcome to bring snacks on board. If you’re picking the train up in Fredericksburg the station is right downtown and surrounded by shops and cafes. You can finish the ride with a tasty lunch of German fare at The Bavarian Chef, a popular restaurant connected to the train station, or walk a few blocks to the Soup & Taco or Sammy T’s, both kid-friendly cafes.

Virginia Railway Express Santa Train
When: Dec. 13
Burke Center, Manassas, Woodbridge and Fredericksburg Stations
Online: vre.org

Have you taken a ride on VRE’s Santa Train? Share any insider secrets in the Comments section below. 

—Jamy Bond

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