While Barbie’s away, Ken’s gonna play—and you’re invited! In honor of the July 21 Barbie movie release, Airbnb is giving fans a chance to stay in an IRL reproduction of the beloved Malibu Barbie DreamHouse, with Ken as host.
Two pairs of lucky guests will get to live out their technicolor dreams for a night. Booking opens at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, July 17 for two, one-night stays for up to two guests taking place on July 21 and July 22, 2023. These stays will be free of charge—because Ken couldn’t figure out how to put a price on Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse. After all, Ken’s thing is the beach, not math!
you guessed it…
the barbie malibu dreamhouse is back on airbnb—but this time, it’s ken-ified 🛼🤠
While Barbie has always been in the spotlight, it’s now her partner’s time to shine. “We all have dreams, and Barbie is lucky enough to have a house full of them,” said Ken via press release. “But now, it’s my turn, and I can’t wait to host guests inside these one-of-a-kind—dare I say, one-of-a-Ken?—digs.”
Joyce Lee
Situated on the sunny Malibu coast, the DreamHouse features views for days. Enjoy your time outdoors around the fire pit and soak up some California sun while you take a dip in the infinity pool.
Joyce Lee
Belly up to the bar and have Ken make you a mai tai while he’s grilling up the burgers!
Joyce Lee
Head indoors where you’ll find Ken’s cowboy chic taking over the bedroom and beyond.
Joyce Lee
Dig through his closet for that perfect look to wear to, you guessed it, the on-site disco roller rink!
Joyce Lee
Guests will even get to take home a piece of the Kendom with their very own set of yellow-and-pink Impala skates and surfboards.
Check out this bird’s eye view of the mansion, complete with giant pink slide and pool floaties spelling out K-E-N.
The ‘BARBIE’ Dream House has mysteriously appeared in Malibu.
You may recognize Barbie’s digs from the last time Airbnb offered them to guests in 2019 (below). We love how they went all in with the pink paint in the 2023 update. Talk about a makeover!
If you think that Pasta Carbonara is a dish you can only have in restaurants, you’ll be shocked to see how simple making it really is. Here to break down the steps for any home cook are Gayle Pirie and John Clark, Chefs and Co-owners of Foreign Cinema in San Francisco. Read on for the full recipe.
Ingredients for Pasta Carbonara:
1 pound (or just under) long noodles (spaghettini, fettucini, or linguine)
6 thick slices of smoky bacon
2 Tablespoons pure olive oil
4 eggs
Salt to taste
A chunk of Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method:
1. Bring lightly salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the noodles until tender but firm.
2. While the noodles cook, dice the bacon and cook it in the olive oil until just lightly crisped in a medium sauté pan. Pour off the excess fat, reserving 4 tablespoons in the pan.
3. In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with a little salt.
4. Drain the noodles, saving about 2 tablespoons of water for later. If the pan has cooled down, warm it up again right before adding the noodles.
5. Add the noodles to the warm bacon in the pan; thoroughly toss with the oil and bacon, and season with salt. Work fast and pour the beaten eggs onto the warm noodles and mix well to coat the noodles.
6. Add the reserved pasta water if the noodles look dry. The heat of the noodles and the pan will thicken and set the eggs. If there is not enough heat, turn the burner on very low, just to warm the noodles, then turn it off. Too much heat can scramble the eggs.
7. Once the noodles, egg, and bacon are well mixed, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and stir. Freshly ground black pepper is an essential addition. Serve in warm pasta bowls.
Partners Gayle Pirie and John Clark are two highly original talents who have been deeply involved in the competitive and innovative ferment of the San Francisco restaurant scene for over two decades. Today, Pirie and Clark are the chef talent, and owners behind the very popular and exciting dining destination- Foreign Cinema. In addition to Foreign Cinema they have published two cookbooks, Country Egg, City Egg in 2000 and Bride and Groom in 2006.
We searched every borough to bring you the complete list of family-friendly events and exhibits happening this month, and they have one key thing in common: they’re all free!
November might mean cooler temps and fewer outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop. In this list, you’ll find dozens of free and low-cost events in November 2022 for families and kids throughout the five boroughs of NYC.
Join NYC as it transitions from fall into winter with beloved seasonal events and fun one-off activities: Visit the yearly winter markets, most of which are returning in November, see the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, celebrate Thanksgiving by giving to the community, and much more. Plus, check out fun and free events for kids and families in November that will educate, engage, and entertain everyone in the fam. And as always, discover all the museums in New York City that offer free admission to visitors, whether it’s all the time or on special days.
Drag Story Hour for Neurodiverse Kids at Bronx Library Center Nov. 5: Drag artists read to kids in an extra-special readalong designed specifically for kids with autism and other disabilities. The event aims to introduce kids to the idea of gender fluidity, and generally put on a fun and bright performance they’re sure to enjoy. Event details.
Bronx Night Market at Fordham Plaza Nov. 26: Good food and a friendly atmosphere make an evening at the Bronx Night Market a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase noms from local food vendors, or check out the kid zone, educational booths on food and nutrition, and a Instagram Wall-O-Fame. Event details.
Free Soccer Sessions at Williamsbridge Oval Throughout Nov.: Head to the game room at the WBO for free soccer sessions for kids. The sessions are beginner-friendly and teach everything from footwork, passing, and basic drills to teamwork and a positive attitude. Event details.
Brooklyn
Bulb Planting on West Street Nov. 5: Help beautify the new Greenway at West Street and Greenpoint Avenue in this volunteer event. Plant bulbs next to the new trees and bring even more green to the street. All tools and gloves will be provided—just bring yourself, some water, and layers in case of a chill. Event details.
FAD Market Fall Pop-up at Empire Stores in DUMBO Nov 5 and 6: Over 30 artists and small businesses make the FAD Market a great place to browse for unique gifts—after all, it’s almost time for the holidays! While you’re there, you can explore the parks under the bridge, go for a spin in Jane’s Carousel, or stick around in Empire Stores for lunch at Time Out Market’s 20+ food vendors. Event details.
Thursgiving Holiday Giving Event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Nov. 17: Give back to the community by bringing coats and clothes, and wrapped, unopened gifts for kids this holiday season. The donation event is a whole party, complete with a DJ, snacks, and raffles. The more gifts you bring, the more the community gets, but there are also prizes given out for donations, including a private tour of the Yard for families, groups, or businesses that donate 25 items. Event details.
Weekend Nature Exploration at Prospect Park Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: The Audubon Center is leading kids on weekend adventures through the wild side of Prospect Park. Every weekend in November, stop by 10-12 to borrow a discovery pack—a backpack filled with tools like binoculars and nature activity ideas, 11-12 for live animal encounters, and 12-1 for a volunteer cleanup session. Event details.
BAM Kids 2022 Throughout Nov.: Foster a love for movies, music, and the arts at the annual BAM Kids festival. Join the Brooklyn Academy of Music for kids concerts and animations. Featured this year are the music and performance of Fyütch, and the whimsical animated movies “Joyful Adventures” and “Follow Your Dreams.” While the BAM kids festival isn’t completely free, most tickets are either pay as you wish or very affordable. Event details.
Manhattan
Jazz at One at Trinity Church Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Catch the final three jazz performances of the season at Trinity this month. Featuring performers The Coleman Hughes Sextet, Samara Joy, Theo Walentiny Trio, and Edmar Castañeda Quartet. Visit the space in person at 1 p.m., or watch for free online on the website. Event details.
Image from 2021 Mexico Week courtesy of Tishman Speyer and Rockefeller Center.
Mexico Week: Día De Muertos at Rockefeller Center Leaving Nov. 2: Rockefeller comes alive with the colors and artwork of Mexican culture during Mexico Week for this year’s Day of the Dead. The event, which is leaving on November 2, will feature sculptures by Cesar Menchaca, including a huge jaguar and Quetzalcoatl, as well as some very well-dressed (and familiar!) skeletons. For more Day of the Dead fun, check out our list of Día De Muertos events in NYC this year. Event details.
Concert at One: ChamberQUEER at Trinity Church Nov. 2: Part of their “Performances at One” series, this extra-special performance features ChamberQUEER. The artists will highlight queer figures from the history of classical music. As with their other performances, this one can be watched in person or online. Event details.
Image courtesy of Chris Lee and Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall Family Day: String Fling
Nov. 5: Kids ages 3-10 are invited to get up close and personal with string instruments. Billed as a “musical adventure,” this hands-on event lets participants create a small performance, relax to peaceful music, jam along with an Afro-Brazilian capoeira band, learn about West African stringed instruments, and more. Event details.
The Rink at Rockefeller
Nov. 5: The rink at Rockefeller is reopening on November 5, officially ringing in the winter season. While a spin on the rink isn’t free (tickets start at $11), watching the skaters on the ice is a cozy winter activity for the family. Explore the area—make sure to stop by the family-favorite Nintendo Store—or get a hot chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat and sit by the rink and people-watch. Event details.
Wellness in Harlem Nov. 5: Sample free food at this party, held at La Placita (at 116th and Park). The event will feature music, giveaways, drinks, and free food from beloved restaurants and brands, including vegan donuts from Planet Back, a Caribbean version of Caesar Salad from YAYB, and much more. Event details.
Breakaway Hoops Trial Class in Harlem Nov. 5: Breakaway Hoops is offering a free trial class for kids ages 8-12. Get a sneak peek at what you can expect from the program, and have some fun with drills and fundamental skill development. All participants must bring their own basketball. Event details.
Seaport Kids: Pumpkin Decorating and Pumpkin Arch Nov. 5 and 6: Drop in and decorate some pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Led by Private Picassos, this free crafty workshop will have foam pumpkins, markers, and plenty of pom-poms for kids to get creative with their pumpkin creations. While you’re there, check out the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17, which is leaving on November 7, for a seasonal photo-op. Event details.
Sensory-friendly Mornings and Evenings at the Intrepid Nov. 5 and Nov. 18: The Intrepid is opening its doors early for young kids on November 5, and closing them late for teens and adults on November 18. These special openings are designed specifically with people with autism in mind, and feature sensory-friendly activities led by experts. This month, the children’s program will introduce them to airplane design, while the teen and adult program will focus on the museums’ exhibit, “Women Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Era.” Event details.
Garden Volunteer Session at Jefferson Garden and Mad Fun Farm Nov. 5 and 19: Join other volunteers from Concrete Safaris in making the gardens and parks around the city even more beautiful. Activities vary, but some things you may find yourself partaking in include weeding, planting flowers, fruits, herbs, or veggies, shoveling topsoil, spreading mulch, picking up trash, and more. Event details.
Closing Day at Hester Street Fair Nov. 6: Hester Street Fair is leaving until next year, and they’re going out in style: with a shopping party! The event will have a live DJ, and will be your last chance to check out local vendors, delicious food, and more fair fun. Event details.
Silent Clowns Film Series: Charlie Chaplin at NYPL for the Performing Arts Nov. 12: The New York Public Library pays tribute to the great star, Charlie Chaplin. Catch a screening of Chaplin’s movies from 1915, with a live piano accompaniment by Ben Model from MoMA and an intro and Q&A by film historians Model and Steve Massa. This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so show up early if you want to sit. Event details.
ConEd Family Day at the Morris-Jumel Mansion Nov. 12: Visit Manhattan’s oldest house-turned-museum for their monthly family day. This month, visitors will make their own colorful suncatcher ornaments. Note that masks are still required for attendees ages 2 and over. Event details.
Adventures from The Shed at 14th Street Y Nov. 12 and 19: Kids 2-5 years old are invited to Liondown’s Birthday—but first, they’ll need to help Mary-Jo and her friends come up with a present for him in time for the party. This puppet adventures feature singing, dancing, and storytelling that’ll have kids singing along and participating in the experience. Event details.
Poster Kids: Junior Fashionistas at the Poster House Nov. 13: The Poster Kids is taking on Air-India’s Maharaja mascot, and this time the focus is his wonderful fashion sense. Kids ages 5-11 are invited to learn about the Maharaja’s style, and make their own art that they can wear using recycled textiles. Event details.
Architecture for Animals at The Skyscraper Museum Nov. 19: The city might be home to humans, but it’s also home for many animals. In this family program from The Skyscraper Museum, participants will learn about architecture in the animal world, like beehives, dens, and bird nests. Then, kids will design an apartment with one animal’s needs in mind. This program is recommended for ages 4-8 and RSVP is required. Event details.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24: Whether you plan on attending or you prefer to watch it from the comfort of your own home, no list of free events in NYC in November would be complete without the world-renown Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Joining the lineup for the first time this year will be the Baby Shark family (don’t get the song stuck in your head!), Bluey the dog, and Geoffrey the Giraffe, in celebration of the return of Toys”R”Us in Macy’s stores. Plus, walk by the area in the days leading up to the parade to see the floats being inflated. Event details.
Eldridge Arts & Learning: Stained Glass at the Museum At Eldridge Street Nov. 27: Learn about the beautiful stained glass windows at the museum, as well as the history and purpose of stained glass windows. Then, make your own design for a window by creating a collage. This event is free for holders of a Cool Culture Pass or a SNAP benefits card. Event details.
Tree Lighting at the Rockefeller Center Nov. 30: The spectacular Christmas Tree is making a comeback to Rockefeller Center Plaza. Standing at close to 100 feet tall and topped by a nine-foot Swarovski Star, the lighting of the tree is a huge event every year. Visit to watch over 50,000 lights light up in a spectacular display. Event details.
Canstruction NY at Brookfield Place Nov. tbd: The annual Canstruction exhibit is coming back to Brookfield Place this year. The event features spectacular structures made from cans, as well as a chance for visitors to donate canned goods for charity. Stay tuned to the website for dates and more details as they become available. Event details.
Queens
Making Music With Friends at Church in the Gardens Nov. 19: Learn how friends make music together and join in the fun with this 45-minute interactive concert for kids. Kids of all ages are invited to hear chamber music and engage with the performers. If you want to attend the paid concert after this event, you can present your free ticket to get 50% off the ticket price. Event details.
Hands on History: Queens Hip-Hop at King Manor Nov. 19: Celebrate national Hip-Hop Month at this month’s free family day at King Manor. Learn about some key 90s rap and hip-hop legends, with a special emphasis on those who come from Queens. Then, make your own trading cards and microphone for your future performances. Event details.
Buckets for Blue: Volunteer Cleanup Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: Help clean part of the Raritan Bay’s shoreline by collecting the trash and plastics that litter the shore. Visitors can borrow buckets and grabbers from the park’s visitor’s center. Event details.
Tues. throughout Nov.: Bring your toddler (ages 0-4 are best suited for this activity) to the nature center at Clay Pit Ponds for a morning of fun and exploration. The The day begins indoors, as kids explore a different nature theme each week. Then, if the weather’s nice, the group moves outside for a short hike. Event details.
Various and Other Locations
Pumpkin Smash Events Do you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween? Bring them to a pumpkin smash! This is chance to destroy your old pumpkins before they go bad in a fun way, but also recycle them for fertilizing! Check out all the places that are hosting pumpkin smash events.
Libraries Around the City Throughout Nov.: Libraries all around the boroughs have something going on basically every day! Stop by your local library and enjoy their free programming. There’s something for everyone, from baby singalongs and toddler craft times to teen tech time, and more.
A few highlights for November include the Children’s Film Series at the NYPL for the Performing Arts on Nov. 10, where you can watch a classic children’s movie on a 16mm projector, and the Solar Race Cars workshop at Allerton Library, where kids will build their own solar-powered vehicles, then race them against each other (if there’s time):
November might bring in the cold, but it’ll also bring in the welcoming warmth of the city’s holiday markets. These holidays feature vendors from the city and beyond as well as delicious and comforting food. Check out these seasonal markets arriving in NYC for the winter this month:
Seeds (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 1: Just one final day in November to see this massive roots transformed into a seed sculpture by artist Jaime Miranda-Bambaren. You can view this statement on humanity encroaching on nature at Thomas Paine Park.
The Great Debate (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 13: Standing at 16 feet tall, this fiberglass sculpture depicts artist Hebru Brantley’s character, Flyboy. The character is a take on the superhero genre by the artist, who drew inspiration from the Tuskegee Airmen—WWII’s first African-American military pilots—to create his vision of what a black superhero might look like. Flyboy stands proudly at The Battery.
The Giving Tree (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: The colorful Giving Tree by Haksul Lee, located at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is more than just an art piece: It’s a functional piece of architecture. The installation uses wind power to generate electricity, which has powered some of the lights in the park and allowed visitors to charge their devices. It’s departing from the park in November, but hopefully its message stays on.
Going Back to The Meadows (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: This tribute to Queens native LL Cool J by Sherwin Banfield is fun and functional, as well: The speakers are solar powered. Visit the piece before it leaves at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Faces of Harlem (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This community-centric outdoor photo wall in Morningside Park takes a look at Harlem residents private indoor spaces, highlighting the themes of connections and isolation. There are over 100 photos to look at, taken by 10 modern artists as well as three youth photographers.
Good Neighbors (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This photo wall commemorates community members from around the Anibal Aviles Playground, by displaying their images along with short interviews. Created by J Maya Luz, this installation shares a wall in the playground with a number of other artworks, inclkuding a memorial for the park’s namesake.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Located a stone’s throw away from Yankee Stadium, this museum displays modern art with a focus on urban experiences and culture. Explore what it means to be a part of the NYC community, and specifically the demographic in the museum’s neighborhood.
The museum is always free, and has a permanent collection as well as rotating special exhibits.
1040 Grand Concourse
Concourse Village Online:bronxmuseum.org
Wave Hill
This gorgeous garden has 28 acres of carefully cultivated plants, flowers and woodland. Take a stroll through the indoor Alpine House, stop for a photo-op of the Hudson River and the Palisades at the Pergola, or sit and relax by the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens. The space frequently hosts family-friendly programs so be sure to check their calendar before you head out.
New York Botanical Garden
With over 250 acres to see, the New York Botanical Garden can definitely be a whole-day affair. The Garden is open rain or shine, and has a mix of indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. See seasonal flowers and native plants, a peaceful rock garden, an entire forest, and much more. The Garden also conducts research, hosts family and child-oriented events, and has online seminars — including one where experts will answer your questions about why your potted plant is looking a little droopy.
Free admission is available for NYC residents on Wednesdays.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is like an educational playground for kids. Find exhibits created specifically for little ones to view and learn with, as well as many hands-on activities that teach through fun and play. Don’t miss the NEST, an organic playground located on the museum’s roof, the water-based play space, or the newly opened Jurassic Mini-golf.
The museum’s Amazon Free Hours grant free admission to all visitors on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
American Folk Art Museum
The American Folk Art Museum explores the joys of self-taught artists from the 1800s all the way through today. These artworks symbolize authentic American culture and experience through time and provide a snapshot of life in different time periods. Along with beautiful photographs and arts on canvas and board, the museum has some unique collections like weather-vanes. The museum has a number of coloring and activity pages that kids can enjoy from home, as well.
National Museum of the American Indian
Part of the Smithsonian Institution family, this museum honors American Indians. It displays modern and classic art by people of American Indian heritage, and teaches visitors about their cultures and traditions. It also frequently has performances, educational programs, and more.
The Skyscraper Museum
Look to the skies at the Skyscraper Museum where NYC’s iconic skyline is explored and celebrated. The museum’s exhibits look at the architecture of the city’s buildings, the literal rise of skyscrapers in NYC, and all other things related to the city’s buildings and their history. The museum also often hosts free family events both at the museum and in different locations around the city.
Admission to The Skyscraper Museum is free through December.
The Jewish Museum
View a celebration of Jewish culture, heritage and artwork at this museum. Exhibits highlight art and photography by Jewish artists, from modern artists working today to key historical figures who helped shape the way art and Jewish culture intersect. The museum also hosts free special events, from museum tours for people with memory loss, to art-making workshops for children and families.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library, which was started by Pierpont Morgan and is now continuously growing, hosts a collection of rare and unique books. While the books in the library itself aren’t available for visitors to browse, you can marvel at the beauty of the library and visit the exhibits, which often show old books, newspaper clippings, and other historic artifacts.
Entry into the Library is free on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3 to 5 p.m., no reservation required. Free Friday programs take place every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and these do need a ticket, which are released for reservation a week in advance.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
This museum examines the history of Jewish people, the hardships they’ve overcome, and the hope for a brighter present and future. The museum has exhibits that discuss the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and accounts of the time, as well as artwork and sculptures by Holocaust survivors.
You can visit this museum for free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 p.m. A ticket is required, which you can get by choosing the Thursday 4 p.m. slot on the museum website.
Edmond J. Safra Plaza
36 Battery Place
Financial District Online:mjhnyc.org
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA is an iconic institute, displaying modern artworks, sculptures, and media / performance pieces created from the 1880s and beyond. The art here will make you feel and think — and, although most exhibits aren’t interactive, the many bright and striking colors and interesting shapes make a great entry point for kids to talk about and explore art.
Thanks to a sponsorship by UNIQLO, the MoMA grants NYC residents free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 4 to 8 p.m.
11 West 53 St.
Midtown
Admission to the MoMA PS1 is always free to New Yorkers, thanks to The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
9/11 Memorial Museum
This museum is a tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 (as well as the February 26, 1993) attacks on the World Trade Center. Visit to learn about the horrific event through media, personal narratives, and a collection of artifacts telling the many stories of that day.
Free admission is offered on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This museum encourages exploration and learning through hands-on exhibits. These often mix fun movement and bright colors with conversations about serious topics like women’s voting rights. Kids can also go on quests featuring their favorite characters like Dora, use their imagination by pretending to be superheroes, discover new cultures through interactive experiences, and much more. Exhibits change often, so stop by at various times of year to see what’s new.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is free to enter on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m.
Queens County Farm Museum
Get away from the city for a farm visit! Meet and greet farm animals (and even get to pet some at the petting zoo), engage with the sensory wonders of the children’s garden, embark on a cute scavenger hunt for the smallest tots, and more. For a small fee, visitors can go on a hayride, and parents can browse the Farm Store for farm-fresh produce, eggs, teas, wool, and other goods created and harvested right on the farm.
The Farm Museum is free to enter every day, except on special ticketed days.
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Bellrose Manor Online:queensfarm.org
Socrates Sculpture Park
Founded in 1986, this park is a place where visitors can have a picnic among incredible sculptures. The artwork on display is always changing, so this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to. Currently on viewing are sculptures like “Steel Bodies” by Maren Hassinger and “Broadway Billboard” by the park’s teen group, Socrateens.
The Socrates Sculpture Park is a public park and admission is free.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor is a must-see if you’ve never been. It’s a beautiful, sprawling grounds have a collection of gardens and plants, while special locations like the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art have their own atmosphere (as well as hours and admission prices).
The Scholar’s Garden is free for Staten Island residents, and the main outdoor grounds and gardens are always free to the public from dawn to dusk.
Family life is busy, and with the start of the school year on the horizon, it’s even busier. Between after school activities, trying to get a dinner on the table, and carving out time for family fun, there’s barely a minute to spare. If you’re feeling pressed for time, these Seattle-area companies can simplify your hectic routine and maybe even give you back a few minutes of much-needed family time. From dinner hacks to an easy way to sell your stuff, pepper your life with these Seattle parent hacks when you need a minute.
This article is sponsored by InnovAsian Cuisine, a world-class provider of pre-packaged, frozen Asian component meals, appetizers and sides. From the freezer aisle to your kitchen table, your kiddos can enjoy a delicious meal in less than 20 minutes. Made with quality white meat chicken and flavorful chef-crafted sauces, InnovAsian Cuisine offers restaurant-quality meals that will delight the whole family. Click here for inspiration for your next dinner.
courtesy Sella
When unused stuff is piling up…
It’s amazing how much gear kids require. From their first bucket carseat through their last pair of soccer cleats, there’s a constant flow of outgrown and no-longer-used stuff cycling through our homes. Who has the time to sort through the piles and pass them along, donate them or try to sell them online? That’s what inspired one Pacific Northwest dad to create Sella. An online service that pairs busy families with expert sellers so you can “turn your clutter into cash.” The process is pretty simple. Gather up all that unused Kindle, the baby carrier your kiddo has outgrown, or the baby monitor you don’t need anymore, because baby (finally!) sleeps through the night. Then ship it all out to Sella. They take it from there, snapping pics, listing it on different sites, and writing the listing. All that’s left is for you to approve the listing and wait for it to sell. What will you do with all that free time and space?
Insider Tip: Sella has plans to launch locally in Seattle so parents can drop-off items in person soon, but for now mail-in is how to get things done.
How lucky are we that Seattle is home to so many amazing indie bookstores? Some love to leave new books in Free Little Libraries around town. Some host storytimes and author meet and greets for kids. Others help parents keep their kid’s bookshelf fresh with a monthly subscription box. We’re big fans of Phinney Books’ Phinney By Post Kids program that delivers a new picture book to your doorstep monthly or every other month. What could be easier? The books are aimed at kids ages birth through five, and are hand-selected by the discerning staff at Phinney Books. While they have a lot things they take into consideration when selecting the books, the one that matters most to parents is that your kids will want to read it over and over and over again.
Insider Tip: If you’re short on time, but aren’t quite sold on a new book a month, call your local bookstore to get recommendations. Trust us, they know their stuff and have spot-on picks for every kid.
If you’ve got a toddler you know how quickly they move from one toy to the next. They’re a physical embodiment of the “ohh! squirrel!” phenomenon. And while we know how much you’d love to spend all day playing dress-up, reading stories, or heading out on the next pretend Paw Patrol rescue with them, there’s only so much time in a day to play. Enter Sensa Play Rentals, a parent-owned, Seattle company that makes gorgeous sensory play kits for kids, delivers them to your door, and even picks them up one week later. It’s what every kid wants (and every parent needs).
This Tukwila-based company has been helping Seattle families get dinner on the table since 1998. For those nights when sports, or theater, or working late leave you pressed for time, you can grab an Innovasian frozen protein, choose a family-friendly recipe, and have dinner ready in around 30 minutes. Inventive dinner ideas, like Asian Chicken & Waffles or Simple and Easy Spam Musubi are kid crowd-pleasers that fill them up just in time to shuttle them out the door (or maybe off to bed?) again.
Insider Tip:Follow them on Instagram for creative ways to use Innovasian’s entrees, sides, and apps.
Although you had high hopes for your pandemic garden, it’s a little overgrown at this point. And strolling the Farmer’s Market just isn’t in the cards this week. Let local Seattle farmers help get fresh produce from their fields to your fridge when you sign up for a fall or winter CSA share. In fact, it’s the right time to sign up for the next share with local farms like Skylight Farms, Local Color Farm & Fibre, Jubilee and Full Circle. (Hint: These are just a few of the local area farms growing fresh veggies right now). Then it’s as easy as picking them up on your way home from work (or after your last playdate) to have your fridge stocked for the week ahead.
Whether you’ve got a newborn who will (hopefully) sleep through any flick or a tot who probably won’t sit still, these theaters offer kid-friendly screenings and amenities—like free popcorn, a playground and more. (And if you haven’t at least been to LA’s iconic El Capitan, it should definitely be on your LA bucket list!) Read on for all the details on LA’s best family-friendly movie theaters.
Kid-Friendly Movie Theaters in LA
New Beverly Cinema
Visit one of the oldest theaters in Los Angeles for a Sat. or Sun. Kiddee Matinee. All ages welcome and there's a free child-sized popcorn and raffle tickets for guests ages 12 and under. Movies change from week to week and range from popular contemporary flicks to old-school classics.
A movie theater and indoor playground in one? We’ve hit the mother lode at the Junior Theater located within Cinepolis which screens kids movies (Rated G and PG only) all week long. The theater boasts a play structure meant to give children (ages 3-to-12) a chance to burn off some of that boundless energy before the show and during a brief intermission.
The concept is pure genius for toddlers and other kids with a low tolerance for sitting still for extended periods of time. Equipped with two slides, a tire climber, and plastic animal sculptures, little ones can romp and roam for 20 minutes prior to the start of the film and during a 15-minute intermission. Playtime is not allowed during the movie but kids happily (and surprisingly) abide by that rule. Parents can relax in peace knowing their kids are mellowed out and ready for the main attraction.
Disney’s own El Capitan Theatre introduces your little one to the magic of movies in a kid-friendly yet elegant setting. Dubbed “Hollywood’s First Home of Spoken Drama,” this architectural masterpiece blends a Spanish Colonial exterior with a vibrant and lavish interior. Aside from the state of the art special effects, this 1,000 seat theater offers an incredible Dolby audio system that parents will appreciate.
If your child is very young or has special needs, the Tiny Tot screenings (Tues. at 10 a.m.) are designed to reduce sensory overload: Lights go dim (not down), the volume lowers and all films are screened in 2D. Parents and kids will marvel at the majesty both on and off the screen at this iconic Hollywood theater.
Parents with children age 4 and under can take advantage of their Wed. morning "My & My Parents" matinees that are shown at 10:30 a.m. Check the theater's website for the full film schedule.
1822 North Vermont Ave. Los Feliz 323-664-2169 Online: vintagecinemas.com
Pop-up movie theaters timed perfectly with summer give LA families a chance to enjoy cinema al fresco. But at Street Food Cinema, watching a beloved movie outdoors is just one part of the family fun! Admission to this event also gets you a ticket to live music performances and lots of delicious eats via (infamous) LA food trucks.
If that isn’t enough to woo parents, kids 5 and under are free. With 14 locations from Glendale to Malibu, there’s plenty of kid-friendly programming.
Take a trip back in time and cruise over to one of LA’s best-kept secrets. This theater is perfect for families that want to experience a movie with all the comforts of their car (and home). Pile everyone in and bring along your kid’s favorite snacks, blankets and pillows. Movies here play rain or shine, seven nights a week.
Presidents’ Day is fast approaching and with another looong weekend to fill, it’s time to find some swell activities around LA that will both entertain your pint-sized patriots and maybe even teach them about our nation and founding forefathers. We’ve rounded up a list almost as long as the Constitution of our fave presidential to-dos. So fire up “Star Spangled Banner” on the karaoke machine, slap on a stovepipe hat worthy of Lincoln and brace yourself for a President’s Day weekend to remember.
Dive Into American History Lessons (That Are Actually Fun)
SoCal is home to not just one, but two presidential libraries and museums. And now that things are reopening, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is once again hosting its Annual Presidents’ Day Celebration with lots of storytelling, entertainment and even president and first lady look-alikes—ooolala! Or if Nixon's your guy, head over to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda on Mon. for the unveiling of the official 2022 White House Christmas ornament honoring the Nixon presidency. Some interior spaces at the museum still remain closed to the public due to COVID.
On June 12, 1987 President Reagan stood 100 yards from the Berlin Wall that divided East and West Germany and delivered his infamous "Tear Down This Wall" speech that would prove to be a turning point in the Cold War. To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, LA's Wende Museum installed one of largest stretches of the original Berlin wall in the world at 5900 Wilshire Blvd (across from LACMA). Stop by and share this great piece of history with your family.
At the Autry Museum, little cowpokes can ooo and ahh over hundreds of pieces of art and important artifacts that showcase the triumphs and hardships of the American West. Don't forget to try your luck at panning for gold with your little 49ers. It's always a hit with kids.
Kennedy was president during the great space race and a visit to the California Science Center to scope out the Space Shuttle Endeavor is the perfect way to see just how far we’ve come and inspire future space explorers of your own.
Known as the “Battleship of Presidents," the Battleship USS Iowa was the WWII flagship that carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt across the Atlantic for meetings with Winston Churchill. It was also the flagship for President Reagan during our nation’s Celebration of Liberty on July 4, 1986. Visitor tours have recently resumed and there's never been a better time to check out this incredible naval history museum.
Finally, don’t throw away your shot to catch Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony Award-winning juggernaut,Hamilton, at the Pantages Theater before it ends its run in Mar. We can’t think of a cooler way to teach littles about Alexander Hamilton’s history as one of the founding fathers of the United States.
When President Obama was on the campaign trail in 2011, his motorcade famously stopped for a bite and some hand shaking at one of LA's most iconic eateries—Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles. As a tribute to the former president's visit, Roscoe's now features the #9 Obama’s Special on their regular menu—3 wings with a waffle or potato salad or french fries.
Not to be outdone, Canter's Deli also hosted Obama in 2014 when he stopped by to speak with a group of Americans who had written to him about their struggles. While he was there, he visited with customers and posed for photos. President Kennedy and President Nixon were also known to have dined here as well.
If you have a hankering for something sweet this Presidents' Day, nothing's more American than good old fashioned apple pie. Visit your favorite local spot for a slice (or whole pie) to go.
One of the things that makes America so special is that it's a true melting pot of different of cultures. At Smorgasburg LA, a weekly pop-up every Sun., you can taste a wide variety of foods from sea to shining sea. Another great pit stop for a wide offering of multicultural cuisines is Grand Central Market downtown—it's fantastic!
Honor Teddy Roosevelt, the founder of our nation’s great parks system, and treat your family to an afternoon filled with sunshine and fun-filled nature exploration. Choose a day hike from one of our favorite destinations, some of which may even have waterfalls!
If you're craving some eye-popping flora and fauna, we highly recommend a visit to The Huntington Garden Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens. There's no more beautiful place to spend the day. And while you're there, pop by the Library to check out the Huntington's famous collections and papers of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln.
Given the long weekend, use that extra time to visit a National Park. There are so many close to LA—from Joshua Tree and Cabrillo to Channel Islands National Park and more—there's a nearby spot to explore, including cabins and vacation rentals if you want to extend your stay.
Dive Into American Pop Culture
Throughout history, America has consistently stood at the forefront of filmmaking. For an immersive look at the history of cinema, visit the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that opened last fall. Highlights for kids include the Hayao Miyazaki exhibition (which ends in Jun.) and the Pixar 3D Zoetrope.
If the pandemic's brought us one good thing, it's the return of drive-in movies. On Presidents' Day weekend, Street Food Cinema will feature the movies Up and LaLa Land with a delicious selection of foods on site that are available for purchase.
We could wax poetically all day about the kitsch of Madame Tussaud's Hollywood. Visit your fave celebrities who've been expertly sculpted into wax so real, you may have to do a double take. They'll even pose for a photo or two with you...after all, they're not going anywhere.
American football is an enormous part of our culture, especially when our city not only hosts this year's Super Bowl, but also has a team competing in it (Go Rams!). So even if you didn't snag tickets to the big showdown, football fans can take a tour of the new Sofi Stadium in Inglewood which has been dubbed by some as the "very best in the world." Guests get to run through the tunnel, participate in on-field challenges and more.
Throughout history, America has consistently stood at the forefront of filmmaking. For an immersive look at the history of cinema, visit the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that opened last fall. Highlights for kids include the Hayao Miyazaki exhibition (which ends in Jun.) and the Pixar 3D Zoetrope.
If the pandemic's brought us one good thing, it's the return of drive-in movies. On Presidents' Day weekend, Street Food Cinema will feature the movies Up and LaLa Land with a delicious selection of foods on site that are available for purchase.
We could wax poetically all day about the kitsch of Madame Tussaud's Hollywood. Visit your fave celebrities who've been expertly sculpted into wax so real, you may have to do a double take. They'll even pose for a photo or two with you...after all, they're not going anywhere.
American football is an enormous part of our culture, especially when our city not only hosts this year's Super Bowl, but also has a team competing in it (Go Rams!). So even if you didn't snag tickets to the big showdown, football fans can take a tour of the new Sofi Stadium in Inglewood which has been dubbed by some as the "very best in the world." Guests get to run through the tunnel, participate in on-field challenges and more.
Probably not everyone is ready to head back to the movies just yet, but if you and the kids can’t wait to sit in a darkened theater, you can see a movie together in style. If you’re looking for the best place to see a movie with the kids in NYC, here are some of the most family-friendly theaters and film series this city has to offer.
(Don’t forget: Starting December 14th, children aged 5-11 will be required to show proof of one vaccination dose for indoor dining, fitness and entertainment. Starting December 27th, New Yorkers aged 12 and older will be required to show proof of two vaccine doses, instead of one, except for those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.)
For Full Immersion: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Downtown NYC, Downtown Brooklyn, and Staten Island
Alamo Drafthouse
The Alamo Drafthouse proudly states that everyone who works at the theater ("from the managers to the servers to the kitchen staff") is passionate about movies. The experience is a huge step above regular movie theaters, as it boasts incredibly comfortable seats, delicious meals served while you watch (with free soda and popcorn refills!), and hand-picked movies. Alamo Drafthouse screens everything from first-run blockbusters to cult favorites to special family programming. The theater also hosts frequent family-friendly special events, like themed menu nights and screening parties.
While visitors under 18 to the Alamo must be accompanied by an adult, the theater also has plenty of options for kids to enjoy their movies. Parents can check out the Alamo for All, sensory-friendly and kid-friendly screenings, which keep children in mind.
Kids ages 3 and up are allowed in shows that start before 6 p.m., and it's strictly 6 and up after 6 p.m. Note that during any kind of kid-friendly movie, guests under 18 still need to be accompanied by adults.
The brand-new Manhattan location just opened in October 2021! In addition to a whopping 14 show screens, the Downtown Manhattan spot features the unique Press Room bar. Entering the Press Room is like stepping into the past: the space is a bar, an event space, and a museum all in one, and displays over 60,000 letterpress film advertising places from the 1930s up through the 80s.
In addition to the Brooklyn and Manhattan locations, a third NYC location is planned for Staten Island, along with a kung-fu-themed store designed by the Wu-Tang Clan's RZA.
Alamo Drafthouse Downtown Manhattan
28 Liberty Street, Suite SC301 Financial District 332-216-3200 Online: drafthouse.com
2636 Hylan Blvd, Unit 34 New Dorp Beach, Staten Island Online: drafthouse.com
For Kid- and Baby-friendly Screenings: Nitehawk Cinema Prospect Park and Williamsburg
The Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg is a legendary location: The location overturned a Prohibition-era restriction preventing the serving of alcohol in movie theaters. Thanks to this theater, adult visitors are free to enjoy an alcoholic beverage while they watch a movie! Besides that, this triplex has 92-, 60-, and 34-seat theaters, and offers a full menu and bar service during movie screenings. Outdoor movie screenings are often held when it's warm out! The menu uses local ingredients, often influenced by beloved movies.
The second location Nitehawk Cinema in Prospect Park, formerly known as The Pavillion, was fully-updated and refurbished in cooperation with the Landmarks Preservation Commission (the renovation revealed original features and details of the 1928 theater). The 650-seat parkside cinema is primed to showcase both smaller films and huge blockbusters with a suite of state-of-the-art theaters that range from somewhat intimate to massive. (Tip: Theater 2, outfitted with a stage and huge screen provides an exemplary viewing experience.) Seats are a nice middle ground between basic theater seating and oversized, reclining lounge chairs; they are very comfortable and equipped with small tables.
The theater also has two full bars, a mezzanine cafe offering views of Prospect Park, and features special programming throughout the year, as well as brunch.
Although they're generally 18+ locations, both Nitehawk Cinema locations regularly accommodate kids and parents. The first showing of the day for all G- and PG-rated movies are open to children of any age (accompanied by an adult guardian) — these shows are marked as ALL AGES on the website.
If you’re a new parent, treat yourself to a movie and indulge in some munchies at the "Adults with Infants" showings. Every Tuesday, only parents with infants under one-year-old will be permitted (no kids of other ages are allowed).
During the special child-friendly times, the theaters' zero-tolerance disruption policy will be relaxed to allow kids to, well, be kids. (The Nitehawk does ask that if your child needs soothing you take them into the lobby to allow other guests to enjoy the movie.) Note that for all kid screenings, children in car seats are welcome but strollers need to be checked at the door.
A favorite destination for adult movie buffs, the Film Forum in the West Village screens classics, often in 35 mm. The cinema aims to present a selection of international films on diverse topics and themes.
Parents with kids will enjoy the Film Forum Jr. series, which is held every Sunday at 11 a.m. and where you can catch a screening of family-friendly classics. The Film Forum Jr. series presents new restorations of classics, animated films, shorts, international films, and even silent films with live piano accompaniments. This season's showings include the 100th-anniversary restoration of Charlie Chaplin's "The Kid," some Buster Keaton films and other classics, as well as more modern picks like Hayao Miyazaki's "My Neighbor Totoro" and Richard Linklater’s "School of Rock" — and more!
Tickets are $11 for non-members (regardless of age) and $9 for members.
209 W. Houston Soho 212-727-81210 Online: filmforum.org
For Chill Movie Moments: AMC Sensory Friendly Movie Screenings
Wikimedia Creative Commons
With over a dozen AMC theaters scattered around NYC, you're bound to have encountered and maybe even visited a few in the past. But did you know that AMC has sensory-friendly screenings? Since 2007, the theater has offered movie screenings for anyone who wants to enjoy a movie but requires a less sense-intense experience.
At these screenings, the lights are turned up and the sound turned down. Visitors are allowed to get up and move around, make noise, talk, shout or even sing! You'll find family-friendly low-sensory screenings every second and fourth Saturday of the month. (Wednesday evenings accommodate a mature audience.) Participating theaters include AMC Magic Johnson in Harlem and AMC Bay Plaza in the Bronx.
For Local Charm: Cobble Hill & Kew Gardens Cinemas
Head to one of these smaller theaters with a decidedly un-corporate vibe for a mix of first-run (kids' movies are typically on one screen), independent and foreign films. This mini-chain also has a location in Williamsburg (Williamsburg Cinemas) in a newer building. While the buildings might date to the mid-century, the interiors, sound and digital projection systems are upgraded. One thing they all have in common: a slightly goofy, retro PSA telling audience members to be quiet, throw out their trash, etc. and interiors decorated with quirky movie-related art, posters and photos.
Cobble Hill Cinemas 265 Court St. Cobble Hill 718-596-4995 Online: cobblehilltheatre.com
Yes, The Museum of the Moving Image is home to the wonderful permanent Jim Henson exhibit, but it also features tons of kid-friendly programming and screenings that you'll enjoy, too! (P.S., screenings often come with the bonus of some extra insight into the topic or genre thanks to speakers or activities.)
Museum of the Moving Image 36-01 35th Ave. Astoria 718-777-6800 Astoria Online: movingimage.us/programs
For the Most Convenient Screenings: New York Public Libraries
Setting a weekly movie date with the kids is a great way to avoid a case of cabin fever this winter. That said, bundling your set of movie-goers to go crosstown is a big hassle. Stay close to home by attending a screening at your local library.
Many public libraries around New York City host screenings for families and kids of different ages, from children's movies to teen screenings, as well as classics. Many locations have regularly scheduled movie nights (very often on Fridays).
Note that you can request ASL interpretation if you ask for it two weeks in advance. Check out the New York, Brooklyn and Queens Public Library’s websites to find the screenings nearest you!
Various times and locations Manhattan, Bronx, and Staten Island: nypl.org Brooklyn: bklynlibrary.org Queens: queenslibrary.org (though there were no scheduled movie events at the time of this writing)
For Free Screenings in Sunset Park
Industry City
Industry City hosts Rooftop Films' Sunset Park Kid's Cinema Club, a series of free screenings at the complex. (This month, it's 2018's Dr. Suess' The Grinch.) Doors open at Noon, and seating is first-come, first-served. RSVP is recommended. Watch the Industry City Events Calendar for upcoming films.
Industry City 51 35th St. Building 5, Five Two A; elevators between 33rd & 34th Streets Sunset Park Online: industrycity.com
For Watching from the Comfort of Your Car: NYC Drive-in Theaters
iStock
Don't want to go inside to watch a movie? You don't have to, if you go to a drive-in, instead! Drive-ins have made a comeback recently due to it being naturally distanced and inherently isolated and outdoor experiences. NYC and its surrounding areas have a number of excellent options for those looking to stay in or around their car and watch a movie projected onto a large screen. Most locations also have food you can enjoy while you watch, or you can bring your own and make it a car picnic!
Movie Screenings in NYC Parks and Community Centers
Bryant Park Film Festival
The Movies Under the Stars screenings are the perfect free movie experience during the warmer months. Head to your local park with a blanket and picnic basket and enjoy a movie in a cozy outdoor space!
Keep an eye on the NYC Parks website, as there are occasional fall and winter indoor movie screenings as part of this series, as well. For example, at the time of this writing, there are two Christmas movies scheduled to be shown at community gymnasiums, complete with free popcorn!
Outdoor movies and drive-in theaters enjoyed a boom this past year as families sought safe, entertainment venues and the trend continues! There has never been a more perfect time for outdoor and drive-in movies and we found new and jazzed-up options for the summer. So load the family in the car, pack the soda, popcorn and boxed candy and get ready for an unforgettable evening under the stars!
The Warriors host cinema nights on San Francisco's only outdoor LED board every Saturday night this summer. With the screen measuring 74 feet wide by 42 feet tall and with nearly 2.2 million pixels, it will be a brilliant night under the sun and stars!
7/17 – Crazy Rich Asians – PG13 7/24 – Pixar Pick, Inside Out or Toy Story (Audience Social Vote) 7/31 – Grease – PG 8/7 – Black Panther – PG13 8/14 – Wedding Planner or Sister Act (Audience Social Vote) 8/21 – Yesterday – PG13 8/28 – Harry Potter – PG
This drive-in theater is known for its nightly double features but is currently showing doubles only on certain days, so check the website for details. With Tuesday Family Fun night and adult admission at $5.75, this drive-in is sure to become a family favorite—double features or not! Event details
Starlight Movies in the Park, Alameda
Pre-movie games and crafts start off the evening at the Alameda Multi-Purpose field with snacks available for purchase, benefitting the Alameda Youth Committee and Teen programs. Don’t forget to pre-register then all that is left to do is to have a gorgeous night under the starlight! July 30th - Tom and Jerry Sept 10th - Raya and the Last Dragon
The city’s annual summer Picnic Flix Movie series boasts a number of well-loved family movies so be sure to catch one—or several! July 2 Grease July 9 Abominable July 16 Moana July 23 Secret Life of Pets 2 July 30 Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Aug 6 Onward
Emerald Glen Park 4201 Central Pkwy, Dublin Event details
Movie Nights in Berkeley
Join friends, family and neighbors for free movie nights this summer and fall at the following local parks:
August 6, 8:15pm: Smallfoot James Kenney Park, 1720 8th Street
August 20, 8pm: Lady and the Tramp Ohlone Park Baseball Field (Hearst and Sacramento)
September 10, 7:30pm: Soul Grove Park, 1730 Oregon
September 24, 7:15pm: Madagascar 3 Glendale La Loma Park, 1310 La Loma Avenue
The garage top at Lesher Center for the Arts welcomes you for a movie night out! Enjoy family favorites with your friends, neighbors and family; check schedule for show times.
~ Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 8:00 PM Disney's Moana(PG)
~ Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 8:00 PM Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (PG-13)
~ Saturday, September 4, 2021 at 8:00 PM Disney's Tangled (PG)
~ Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 8:00 PM Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13)
~ Saturday, October 9, 2021 at 7:15 PM Disney's Coco (PG)
~ Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 7:15 PM Disney's Hocus Pocus (PG)
The gorgeous arts center welcomes families for two movie nights this summer. Pre-order a snack pack along with your tickets to be enjoyed on site! July 25th Ghostbusters July 30th Coco
15400 Montalvo Rd, Saratoga
Coyote Point Movie Nights
Gather friends and family, pack a picnic and join CuriOdyssey for a fun-filled summer evening during Coyote Point Movie Nights in July, August, September and October at Coyote Point Park in San Mateo. Watch your favorite movies, experiment with fun CuriOdyssey science experiments, play creatively with San Mateo County Libraries and learn more about the San Mateo County Parks Foundation. Movies begin thirty minutes after sunset, the last Saturday of each month, activities will open one hour before the movie begins. Reserve tickets in advance. 7/31 Raya and the Last Dragon 8/28 The Croods 2: A New Age 9/25: Soul 10/30: Cruella
San Jose Downtown Association brings back their Starlight Cinemas with free, family-friendly movies in St. James Park. Pre-movie activities and food and drink for purchase are available one hour before showtime.
July 21 Up July 28 The Perfect Game Aug 4 Raya and the Last Dragon Aug 11 Karate Kid
Similar to its sister drive-in at the Concord location, Family Nights on Tuesdays brings the adult admission ticket down to $5.75, leaving you with more budget for snacks and sodas and more importantly, the title Hero of the Week. Recent family favorites include Peter Rabbit 2 and Boss Baby.
Santa Clara county hosts free movie nights on select Friday nights this summer and early Fall.
Friday, July 16 8:30pm at Reed & Grant Sports Park, 750 Reed St. Sandlot - RSVP on Eventbrite Friday, August 13 at Central Park, 969 Kiely Blvd. Abominable Friday, September 17 at Live Oak Park, 641 Moreland Way Luca Friday, October 15 at Maywood Park, 3360 Cabrillo Ave. Trolls World Tour
Redwood City is playing double featured movies on Thursday nights at the Courthouse Square. Bring a blanket and pick up take out from nearby restaurants for a perfect evening out.
Thursday, August 12: 6pm Brave, 8:30pm Minari
Thursday, August 19: 8pm
Feeling Through (19 mins)
Massive by Tony Gapastione (5 mins)
8:30pm Wonder Woman
Thursday, August 26: 6pm How to Train Your Dragon, 8:30 pm A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Thursday, Sept. 2: 8pm
Napo (16 min)
The Dublin House by Krystina Jackson (3 mins)
8:30pm Jumanji: The Next Level
Marin
Lark Drive-In Movies Under the Stars, Corte Madera
Warm nights mean cool movies at the Lark! Family classics such as Sixteen Candles, Return of the Jedi, A Hard Day’s Night, Back to the Future, and Jungle Book are showing this summer and the Lark can comfortably accommodate 100 cars meaning there's more than enough room for everyone.
The Village at Corte Madera 1961 Redwood Hwy North parking lot across the street from Nordstrom
A new partnership with Charles Krug winery has upped the ante on drive-ins at this theater! Pre-movie charcuterie plates and wine are available for purchase to enjoy on the lawn before hopping in your car for the night’s feature. It's truly a win-win situation when both the kids and adults are happy!
Finally, we’ve got something to look forward to! Mark your calendars for June 14 as the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Bay Area is opening to the public. The ultimate indoor LEGO® playground for families will take up residence at the Great Mall in Milpitas and we’ve got the full scoop on what you can expect when you visit (including some awesome Bay Area-specific builds that you can check out!).
As the first of its kind in California, the long awaited LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area originally delayed its April 2020 opening due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following local and state capacity and safety regulations, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area will have enhanced cleaning measures implemented throughout the day to clean and sanitize the attraction, including high-frequency touchpoints, play areas, and LEGO® bricks.
California’s first LEGOLAND Discovery Center is comprised of more than 31,000-square-feet of interactive and educational attraction space geared towards children ages 3–10 and their families. Dubbed the ultimate indoor playground, its range of educational and interactive experiences includes themed build stations, master classes, an Imagination Express train ride, an earthquake table, a 4D cinema, special party rooms for birthdays and other celebrations, a café and a LEGO retail shop.
In MINILAND you can explore and interact in miniature LEGO replicas of the Bay Area’s most loved landmarks built from over 1.5 million LEGO bricks. Mischievous mini-figures can be found hiding throughout MINILAND, as guests spot the ghosts at the Winchester Mystery House, take in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, or score a touchdown at the local football stadium.
Get Your Tickets: Single-Day Admission Passes are available for purchase online starting at $23 per person. Annual Passes are also available for purchase through the LEGOLAND Discovery Center’s website. Annual Pass holders receive unlimited access to the attraction for 12 months and benefits including café, LEGO® Shop and birthday party discounts and invites to exclusive events. The Annual Passes pay for themselves in less than three visits.
Pool parties, BBQ’s, reunions, oh my! There are plenty of gatherings that hopefully await us all this summer.
To celebrate, Lay’s is releasing three new limited edition flavors that will be available this week. Get ready for Chile Mango, Wavy Jerk Chicken and Summer BLT!
photo: Courtesy of Lay’s
When it comes to flavors, Lay’s has outdone itself this time. The Chile Mango contains mango and chili peppers, the Wavy Jerk Chicken is made with traditional spicy, sweet and smoky jerk flavor and Summer BLT tastes like sinking your teeth into lettuce, tomato and bacon.
To jump start the warm weather fun, you can join in on Frito-Lay’s “Let’s Summer” campaign. Head to chipsnsips.com for the chance to win summer-themed prizes that include a telescope, outdoor pop-up cinema screen, theater projector and more.
Shop these limited edition flavors at retailers nationwide for $3.79 until supplies last.
