ML Interest Tag: comedy-show

All the New Kids’ Shows & Movies on Netflix in October

by Gabby Cullen

These new Netflix kids’ shows and movies coming in October are perfect for when the kids need downtime

Fall is officially here, which means chillier days and many excuses to relax on the sofa. Netflix’s October lineup is jam-packed with new releases and family favorites. No matter what you like to watch, there are plenty of new Netflix kids’ shows and movies this month. Family favorite Kung Fu Panda is back and there are a few new additions for Halloween, too. All that’s left is to decide what they want to watch first.

New Netflix Kids’ Shows and Movies Coming in October

Oct. 1

The Adventures of Tintin

This animated film is based on the comics of the same name. When young journalist TinTin buys a miniature version of a legendary pirate ship, he is unknowingly thrust into an adventure that involves traveling the world, looking for sunken treasure, and avoiding some nasty pirates. And he does it all with the help of his trusty sidekick Snowy.

The Amazing Spider-Man, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 

While the Andrew Garfield version of New York’s favorite superhero might not be the favorite of the comic book film adaptations, these movies are still action-packed fun for the whole family.

Casper 

This modern take on a classic cartoon character spins the story of an afterlife therapist and his daughter becoming friends with a friendly spirit after they move into a crumbling mansion.

Drake & Josh: Season 1-3 

In this classic Nickelodeon series, two stepbrothers learn to live together and navigate high school even though they’re very different people.

Kung Fu Panda 

Go back to where it all began for Po and his ninja master friends. Enjoy the discovery of the dragon warrior all over again with this animated classic.

The Little Rascals 

Based on the classic “Our Gang” movie shorts from the ’20s and ’30s, Little Rascals follows the adventures of Alfalfa, Darla, Stymie, Spanky, Waldo, and more.

Megamind

This hilarious animated film about an overly smart reformed super-villain alien is back on Netflix. Starring the voice talents of Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Tina Fey, Brad Pitt, and many more, this is a perfect choice for family movie night.

Oct. 2

Strawberry Shortcake and the Beast of Berry Bog

In an all-new special, the Berry Scary Fright Night Carnival has arrived in Big Apple City and Strawberry Shortcake must solve the mystery of who is trying to spoil the fun.

Oct. 10

Blippi’s Big Dino Adventure

If you didn’t catch Blippi’s feature film debut this summer, here’s your chance. In this 60-minute length film, Blippi and Meekah set out on their biggest and best dinosaur adventure yet. They’ll meet up with friends like Park Ranger Asher and help to find some missing dino eggs before they hatch.

Oct. 12

LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising: Season 1: Part 2

The key to stopping the MergeQuakes from reaching their tipping point lies in the Dragon Cores. Can the Ninja find all three before it’s too late?

Oct. 13

Spy Kids, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams, Spy Kids 3: Game Over

Now that you’ve seen the remake, how about going back to the beginning with the original trilogy? Follow Juni and Carmen as they follow in their super spy parents’ footsteps and help save the world with the help of some super cool spy gear.

Oct. 16

Oggy Oggy: Season 3 

Kind and curious kitty Oggy Oggy wants to spread joy to all his friends and neighbors. But sometimes, he gets into playful mischief instead. Miaow!

Oct. 17

I Woke Up A Vampire 

On her 13th birthday, Carmie discovers that she’s half vampire—and she must learn to navigate middle school while learning to control mythical powers like strength, super speed, and power blast. A fun new TV show for tweens.

Oct. 23

Princess Power: Season 2 

When there’s trouble in the Fruitdoms, these princess pals join forces to help each other—because sometimes problems are too big for just one princess!

Oct. 24

Minions

Gru’s sidekicks get their own feature-length film with this spin-off of the Despicable Me franchise. Find out where the minions came from and why they are obsessed with bananas.

Oct. 25

Life on Our Planet

Life as we know it has fought an epic battle to conquer and survive on Planet Earth. There are 20 million species on our planet in 2023, but that number is just a snapshot in time—99% of Earth’s inhabitants are lost to our deep past. The story of what happened to these dynasties—their rise and their fall–is truly remarkable.

Related: New, Original Family Movies You’ll Only Find on Netflix, Disney+ & Apple TV in 2023

Kids’ Titles Leaving Netflix in October

A League of Their Own

Jumanji

Nanny McPhee

Mr. Peabody & Sherman

Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie

 

 

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15 TV Shows from the ’90s Your Kids Will Love

by DeAnna Janes

We all wanted a teacher just like Ms. Frizzle

They just don’t make ’em like they used to. Thankfully, the streaming platforms stream them like they do. From Tubi to Paramount+, to Netflix, the digital shelves are alive and well with the ’90s kids’ shows that raised you and that you can now share with your own little ones.

If you’re dreaming of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Clarissa Explains It All, Good Burger, and more shows and movies you used to watch back in the day, many of them are available to stream right now in your living room. Looking for a little more watch-list inspo? Keep scrolling for a list of favorites you will want to enjoy with your own kids.

’90s Kids’ Shows to Watch with the Family

1. Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers

Power Rangers is a 90s kids show
Netflix

Choosing a favorite Power Ranger was like picking a partner for Four Square: He or she would be your loyal companion for an unforgettable battle, so you had to pick wisely. Inspired by Japan’s Super Sentai franchise, the series about a group of teenage martial arts pros tasked with saving Earth from various villains was a smash when it debuted in 1993. And even though the series has evolved over the decades, nothing packs a punch of nostalgia like the high-energy original.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Netflix.

2. Doug

Doug is a '90s kids show
Disney

In 1991, Nickelodeon debuted a 90-minute block of game-changing animation. Called Nicktoons, the lineup kicked off Sunday mornings and included The Ren & Stimpy Show, Rugrats, and this quirksome classic about a kid named Doug Funnie. The series, based on its creator’s real life and journal doodles, jumps between grade-school mishaps, growing pains, and heroic daydreams about a persona named Quailman. Trust us: It won’t be long before your little one sports their undies over their shorts. IYKYK!

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Disney+ and Amazon.

3. Rugrats

Nickelodeon

Another original Nicktoon, Rugrats was the brainchild of then husband-and-wife animation duo Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo. A peek into the secret world of wobbly toddlers, their series features a klatch of adorable playpen dwellers who may not have teeth or potty skills down just yet but are all stocked up with senses of adventure and unbridled curiosity. Led by protag baby Tommy Pickles, Rugrats offers a hilarious bridge between two realms: that of innocent perception and that of the real world.

Recommended age: 5 & up.

Available on Hulu and Amazon.

4. Bill Nye the Science Guy

Bill Nye the Science Guy is a 90s kids show
Disney

A few years after Mr. Wizard took his bow in 1989, Bill Nye picked up the Bunsen burner and ran with it. Or rather, walked briskly, because running with fire is dangerous. Always cooking up the coolest experiments in a light blue lab coat and forever-present bow tie, Bill Nye uses boundless enthusiasm as a way to ignite curious minds and turn science into a fun escapade. Each episode is an electrifying experiment in the love of learning and is a fantastic way to introduce kids to science.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Amazon.

5. Hey Arnold!

Hey, Arnold
Nickelodeon

The star of this jazzy motley toon is a kid named Arnold. A nine-year-old who lives with his grandparents in a boarding house, he tackles everyday fourth-grader obstacles. You know, stuff like bullies, kiddie pools, and the power of friendship. Back then, Hey Arnold! was just our way of decompressing after school. Today, it’s a rad time machine that whisks us back to a world where the jazz is too good and “football-headed” kiddos are the real heroes.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Hulu and Amazon.

6. The Magic School Bus

The Magic School Bus is a 90s kids show
Netflix

If ever there were a way to get kids to crack a textbook outside the walls of a school, it’s this cosmic roller coaster of a '90s kids' show, featuring a shapeshifting yellow school bus and a zany teacher sporting some truly wonky fits. The series goes round and round with Ms. Frizzle and her students as they embark on adventures into the depths of the digestive system one day, and animal habitats in the wild the next, fusing a kid’s core curriculum with a healthy dose of magic and fierce staying power.

Recommended age: 5 & up.

Available on Netflix.

7. Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs
ABC

Maestro of the Muppets, Jim Henson, helped pioneer puppetry on prime time with this prehistoric fantasy series. A peek into the household of the Sinclairs, a family of full-body animatronic marvels, Dinosaurs is brilliant in that it’s entertainment for little ones and their parents. And thanks to its irreverent combination of sly satire and silly slapstick, it’s also a funny watch no matter which decade you view it in—even the Mesozoic era.

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Disney+ and Amazon.

8. Clarissa Explains It All

Clarissa Explains It All is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Nineties fashion icon Clarissa Darling knew a thing or two about, well, everything—hence the title of this coming-of-age comedy that had every preteen harmonizing with Rachel Sweet’s single-syllable theme song. Navigating the labyrinth of teen life and decoding every motivation along the way, Clarissa (played by the fantastic Melissa Joan Hart) breaks the fourth wall to fill her audience in on dilemmas that include how to master dating, friendships, and bratty little brothers.

Recommended age: 8 & up.

Available on Amazon and Paramount+

9. The Baby-Sitters Club

There’s an award-winning book series, a movie that launched the acting careers of Rachael Leigh Cook (She’s All That) and Larisa Oleynik (10 Things I Hate About You), and even a reboot that has critics bowing down, but no one can forget about the single-season series that solidified its fan base for life. With iconic episodes, like “Dawn and the Dream Boy,” “Stacey Takes a Stand,” and “Claudia and the Missing Jewels,” the world of the Baby-Sitters Club unfolds with empowerment that transcends time.

Recommended age: 7 & up.


Season 1 is available on Amazon. 

10. Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Are You Afraid of the Dark is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Remember SNICK? Nickelodeon's answer for preteens who preferred spending Saturday night on the couch watching TV, the two-hour lineup saw shows like All That and The Adventures of Pete and Pete get some play. But our favorite has to be Are You Afraid of the Dark? Eerie and atmospheric, the series is a collection of ghost stories conjured up by teenage storytellers who call themselves the Midnight Society. And don't be surprised if you see some familiar faces when you revisit the show. Read: Ryan Gosling!

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Paramount+ and Amazon. 

11. Boy Meets World

Boy Meets World is a 90s TV show
Disney

Though the Boy Meets World universe is filled with guest-star cameos from the likes of Keri Russell, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Adam Scott, and Rue McClanahan, the core cast remained the same for seven seasons. Cory, Topanga, Shawn, Eric, and, later, Morgan guided fans through the '90s with humor, heart, and so much Feeny. Morphing from a lighthearted sitcom to a self-aware portrait of adolescence, this gem is totally worth revisiting with a younger generation.

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Disney+, Apple TV, and Amazon.

12. All That

All That is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Another leg of the SNICK lineup, this weekend hit is basically Saturday Night Live for younger audiences. Sketch comedy for kids, by kids, it gave now-household names like Nick Cannon, Amanda Bynes, and Kenan Thompson, a shot to raise the roof with skits that, though wildly different, all shared one goal: getting all that laughter. Fun fact: In a stroke of fate, Thompson would go on to star on the big-kids' SNL for 20+ years.

Recommended age:

Available on Paramount+ and Netflix. 

13. Kenan & Kel

Kenan & Kel is a '90s TV show for kids
Nickelodeon

Fans of All That know where we're going with this: Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell first appeared together on SNICK's sketch comedy show before landing a sketch comedy show of their own. Dubbed Kenan & Kel, the show is set in Chicago and follows the misadventures of two high schoolers who reeeaaally love to ask, "Who loves orange soda?" It's peak humor that eventually leads to the two best friends starring in a whopper of a movie together.

Recommended age: 8 & up.

Available at Amazon and Netflix.

14. Sister, Sister

Sister, Sister is a 90s kids show
ABC

Twin sisters Tia and Tamera are separated at birth but reunite in their teens, then move in together to create one big, happy family with dad Ray and mom Lisa. So goes the fictional small-screen story of real-life twins Tia and Tamera Mowry. The result? One of the most genuine displays of onscreen chemistry, female empowerment, and sibling dynamics to ever grace the screen. Fun fact: Tia and Tamera performed the catchy "Sistaaa! Sistaaa!" theme song you still sing today.

Recommended age: 9 & up.

Available on Hulu, Netflix, Paramount+, and Amazon.

15. Saved by the Bell

We'll be the first to admit it: Saved by the Bell hasn't aged well. Bloated machismo, fat-shaming, gender stereotypes, and a lack of diversity aren't okay now, and they weren't okay then. But that doesn't mean you won't also find yourself waxing nostalgic over the Bayside crew's antics, from Zack and Kelly's puppy love to Slater and Lisa's top-notch comedic timing to Screech and Mr. Belding's odd coupling. As for the 2020 reboot? It's so good, we can't believe it was canceled.

Recommended age: 9 & up.

Available on Apple TV, Amazon, 

 

 

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35 Indoor Activities for Hot Summer Days

by Erica Loop

Blow their minds with indoor Olympics, ice cube art, and a comedy-hour giggle fest

The weather is finally warmer. But now it’s kind of gone overboard, and the novelty of all-day outdoor summer activities has worn off. We’ve got indoor summer activities that will get your child moving, experimenting, and creating in the comfort of your living room, kitchen, or playroom. If it’s reached crazy temps where you live, it sounds like you’ll need some great indoor activities for kids.

Laugh out loud. Stage a little comedy show in your living room. Here are 300+ of our favorite kid’s jokes to get you going.

Create a cool collage. Spend the day (or at least part) drawing summertime pictures. Your little artist can create portraits of the family at the beach, draw the swimming pool or recreate what they see just by looking out the window. Use a large poster board or cardboard as a background and collage the pics into one summer mural.

Have a dance party. Pick a few summer-themed tunes (like anything from the Beach Boys) and dance, dance, dance.

Play store. Set up shop in just in no time at all and play grocery store. Or maybe you’d rather go to the moon or climb Mt. Everest? Here are 27 make-believe prompts that’ll fill those 30 minutes before dinner. 

Play a round of “Would you rather?” Would you rather have a pet monkey or a pet porcupine? Inquiring minds want to know! All you need are a few good questions. Here’s a great list you can pull up, so you can dish out questions as fast as your kids can answer them.

Draw a shadow. Set up toys, place books on their short sides, or use any other item that casts a shadow. Place the objects on a light-colored paper and shine a flashlight on it. Your kiddo can draw the shadow. Now move the light, pretending that it’s the sun. Draw the new shadows to see how the sun’s rays change as the day continues

Read together. Try out our favorite new releases in the picture book world. We also love these books that help kids learn about and combat racism.

Write a story.

Sing a song. Choose a favorite family song and sing as a group. Don’t worry if you can’t carry a tune; the goal is for everyone to spend time together enjoying a fun indoor activity.

Make popsicles! Everyone loves to cool off in the summer with a delicious frozen treat, so why not make them yourself? Here’s our list of really yummy popsicle recipes. Which will be your family favorite?

Have an indoor picnic. When the weather gets too hot or rainy, that doesn’t mean your summer day is ruined—just move the party indoors! Lay out a blanket and have a picnic in your living room.

Play animal charades. Can your kid waddle like a penguin? Or maybe hop like a bunny? This twist on the classic game of charades can be as easy or as hard as you want. All you have to do is write down a bunch of animals on cards or paper and have everyone take turns picking a card and acting out the animal.

Connect the dots. Tic Tac Toe is so yesterday. The Dot Game is so today. And it can easily be re-created when you’re in a lurch. You need paper and a pen to make a large-scale dot grid. Then, take turns connecting one dot to the next, trying to complete squares. When you do, don’t forget to claim your property with a big fat initial smack dab in the middle of the box.

Pick a card. Learn a simple magic trick.

Learn how clouds hold water. There may not be a cloud in sight, but that doesn’t mean your science-loving child won’t get a kick out of this experiment. With a few simple everyday ingredients, your child can explore the science of clouds with this fun indoor activity from Learn With Play at Home.

Make crumpled paper art. Explore art in a completely colorful way. Learn how to turn regular watercolor paint into awesome artwork with texture, depth and so much more. Get the full directions from Buggy & Buddy.

Freeze water and oil. What happens when you mix oil and water? Make a few regular ol’ ice cubes and a few with veggie oil. Drip drops of food coloring in before popping the cubes into the freezer. Take them out (after they’re completely frozen), put them onto a piece of paper, and watch what happens as they melt.

Bake some blueberry muffins.

dad baking with daughter is a fun indoor activity for kids
iStock

 

Sponge print fun. Take the stack of unused kitchen sponges that you bought at the big box store and put them to use. Cut the sponges into shapes, dip them into tempera, and let your little one paint the day away. They can sponge-paint a pattern, make abstract art, or put shapes together to make a picture, such as a tree or a house.

Create a mailbox and write each other letters.

Go small. Outfit a mouse house, dollhouse, or fairy dwelling with tiny furniture you can make yourself.

Get glowing with ice. This indoor activity is cool—in both senses of the word. Explore the wild world of tonic water, experimenting with its ability to glow (really, it does). Make tonic water ice cubes, pop them out of the freezer, and take them to a dark room. Turn off all the lights, turn on a black light, and watch the glow. Get the details here.

Make slime. This is always a fun indoor summer activity if you’re okay with a mess (it will happen).  Add glitter, sequins, craft sand, or small toys for a better sensory experience. If you need a new recipe, get your slime-making steps here. And when they’re done, check out how to get slime out of just about anything.

Make a water-density rainbow. Explore density with this completely colorful experiment.

Plan an afternoon movie marathon. Pick a family flick from this list and make a new popcorn recipe.

Ice-Capades! Freeze colored water in ice cube trays and then let the kids paint with their slowly melting watercolors. Check out these other surprising ways you can have fun with ice.

Sink or Float
This basic science experiment is perfect for schoolers or makes for an exciting indoor summer activity for toddlers. And as a bonus, it uses water—perfect for a hot summer day. Fill the sink, tub, or plasticware bin with cool water. Pick a few waterproof items, predict if the objects will sink or float and then toss them in; observe what happens and record the data.

Make sensory bottles. This is an easy indoor summer activity for kids to try; this sensory play idea lasts for more than one day. Fill an old plastic bottle part-way up with water. Add sparkles, colorful craft sand, or anything else your child wants. Drip a drop of food coloring in and pour a splash of baby oil into the mix. Close the bottle, seal the top with tape, and shake to watch what happens.

Set up your own indoor Olympics.
Set up your version in the living room or playroom. Create obstacles to pretend slalom around or set up an indoor aquatic race. Your child, the neighborhood kids, and the rest of the family can act out swimming movements as everyone races around the house.

Make a dinosaur terrarium. 

Make something out of a cardboard box. Give those Amazon packages a second life with one of these fun ideas.

Paint without a brush. If you have finger paints or tempera at home, your kids can get into this art activity from Mini Monets and Mommies.

Make melted crayon shells. Older kids enjoy crafting too. Use those seashells from your beach vacation with this colorful indoor summer activity from Fun at Home with Kids.

Have a beach party. That is, have an indoor beach party. Grab the towels, pull up a paddling pool (minus the water), and pour a few kid-friendly fruit juice drinks. Fill the pool with torn blue tissue paper or a blue sheet. Pretend to splash, all from the cooling comfort of your home.

Sign up for an Outschool course. There are dozens of different courses and classes for every interest. Check out our favorites here. 

Related: 21 Fun Toys to Order on Amazon Perfect for Indoor Days

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton and Amber Guetebier

 

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11 Funny, In-Your-Face Shows Like ‘Workin Moms’

by DeAnna Janes

Now that the series has wrapped, you’re going to need a new roster of shows like Workin’ Moms that celebrate motherhood in all its messiness. So, here you go

All moms are working moms. You’ve heard the maxim before, and if you’re a fan of Netflix’s hit mom-com Workin’ Moms, then you’ve seen it in hilarious action too. Tackling the realities of motherhood—latch refusal, postpartum depression, mommy guilt, social isolation—the comedy series paints a portrait that is honest, fearless, and entirely covered in spilled breastmilk.

Created by Catherine Reitman, who also writes, stars, and occasionally directs, Workin’ Moms hit Canadian screens in 2017 and Netflix’s digital shelves in 2019. Since then, the series has enjoyed seven seasons tagging along with friend group Kate, Anne, Frankie, and Jenny as they juggle the chainsaws that are careers, babies, marriages, and domestic duties.

Last month, the show took its final bow, with Season 7 hitting the streaming platform in its entirety. But that doesn’t mean you have to retire your love for TV moms who not only make you laugh but reinforce that your best is good enough. Ahead is a list that’s fertile ground for filling the Workin’ Moms hole in your watch list.

Catastrophe

Stop us if you’ve heard this one: An Irish woman and an American man meet in London, get pregnant after a one-night stand, and live hilariously ever after. That’s the premise of this Amazon Original show like Workin’ Moms that stars its writers, Rob Delaney and Sharon Horgan. A refreshing take on parenthood, Catastrophe appeals to those with children but also a non-child-rearing audience, thanks to its biting banter and anti-storybook romance.

Stream it on Prime Video

I’m Sorry

Diarrhea of the mouth: a chronic condition characterized by verbal streams of consciousness, moments of foot-in-mouth syndrome, and just plain telling it like it is. Andrea Savage stars in this half-hour comedy show like Workin’ Moms about a happily married comedy writer and mother of a kindergartner who spends her day saying out loud what moms have thought since the beginning of time. She’s relatable, and funny, and often finds herself uttering the two words women say way too often: “I’m sorry.”

Stream it on HBO Max

Good Girls

In what might be the best crime comedy you haven’t seen, a group of suburban moms turn to robbery when their bank accounts hit the red. Mad Men’s Christina Hendricks, The Office’s Retta, and The DUFF’s Mae Whitman light up the screen as they take a hammer to toxic masculinity and warped archetypes. It’s been called a Breaking Bad knockoff for women, but this fun caper deserves a sub-genre all its own.

Stream it on Netflix

The Letdown

Life is just one long string of letdowns. But it’s the beautiful moments and little wins in between that make them livable. Alison Bell’s series, in which she also stars, illustrates just that through a humorous and optimistic lens. She plays Audrey, a new mom who’s entered the fifth dimension which is motherhood, and is trying to make sense out of a life that now requires making sure that a tiny human being makes it through the night alive. (Yeah, it’s quite the 180.)

Stream it on Netflix

Breeders

Martin Freeman and Daisy Haggard star in this British dark comedy show like Workin’ Moms about a married couple who love their kids as much they want to kill them. The first season introduces audiences to Paul and Ally, and their two kids under seven, Ava and Luke. Season 2 picks up about five years later, the effects of their chaotic parenting style manifesting in interesting ways. Season 3 tackles the teen years, and Season 4 is eyeballing a summer release. So sit down, hit play, and hold on.

Stream it on Hulu

Better Things

Motherhood is magical, but raising three daughters in this modern world takes some sleight of hand. Which Sam Fox (Pamela Adlon), the working actress at the center of this empathetic portrait of single-mom-dom, does not have. Flawed but unconditional in her love, she spends each episode keenly aware that the bond between a mother and her daughter is everlasting, and yet could go tits up at any moment.

Stream it on Hulu

Ginny & Georgia

Ginny & Georgia is a show like Workin Moms
Netflix

 

Dysfunction doesn’t begin to describe the dynamic between Georgia Miller, a 30-year-old mother who solves her problems with a pistol, and Ginny, her angsty and awkward 15-year-old daughter. The series begins with the two trying to put down roots in New England, but as drama would have it, Georgia’s secrets threaten to unravel their efforts—and their relationship. Though it sounds dark, the bleak moments are diluted with wisecracks that will make you LOL.

Stream it on Netflix

Single Parents

The joys and struggles of parenting young children get the prime-time sitcom treatment with Single Parents. Featuring a group of—you guessed it—single parents with varying backgrounds who have banded together to form their own unconventional family, the series is a charming take on raising kids and looking for love from New Girl’s Elizabeth Meriwether.

Stream it on Hulu

One Day at a Time

A reimagining of Norman Lear’s 1975 classic, One Day at a Time follows the exploits of a Cuban-American family who treat nothing as off-limits; meaning alcoholism, depression, and the female orgasm are all up for discussion. An intensely adored sitcom, ODAAT is a charmer whose fan base has been screaming into the void over its two cancellations. Luckily, there are 46 episodes to enjoy before you find yourself in the same state of despair.

Stream it on Pluto TV

Motherland

Welcome to the mother lode: cliquey stay-at-home mums, PTA politics, clueless dads; if it gives Mom a headache, you can bet it will be toiled over in Motherland. A British comic gem that takes on middle-class motherhood, this one pivots around the flustered Julia, who’s barely keeping it together, and her antithesis, Amanda, a walking billboard for the idiotic mantra, “Women can have it all.”

Stream it on Sundance Now

Wellmania

Though this Aussie raunch-com starring Instagram satirist Celeste Barber doesn’t necessarily tap into motherhood, it does get messy. Really messy. Not only is there vegan spew, but our resident funny lady also indulges herbs, laxatives, and good old-fashioned fecal purging all in search of better health. She’s on this wellness journey to get a green card, so she can get back to New York City to host a cookery competition show, but has no idea the quest is actually a straight shot to self-discovery.

Stream it on Netflix

Related: 14 Drama-Filled Shows ‘Virgin River’ Fans Will Adore

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26 Fun Father-Son Activities That are Perfect for Bonding

by Jeff Totey

Everyone has their opinion of what a father-son relationship is “supposed” to look like—and often times it’s spending time doing guy stuff like fishing, watching football, and playing golf. While all of those are great, we came up with a unique list of father-son activities that has fun ideas for everyone and every interest. How many have you already checked off your list? And, if you’re looking for other ways to bond, here are a few important things fathers should say to their sons. 

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1. Take a selfie.
Why? Why not? You’re having a good time with your boy, and you might as well document it. Plus, when he's older, you can always use the photos as collateral.

2. Have a dance-off.
Because dancing isn't just for girls.

3. Play with LEGO (with no instructions).
LEGO just might be the best toy ever created. Get on the floor with your boys and just start building. When they ask, “What are you making?” tell them, “I don’t know. Let’s see what comes up.” Enjoy the freedom of building with no rules.

4. Introduce him to "real" comedy.
Show your boys what “real” cartoons should look like by watching classic Bugs Bunny and Disney animation. If a cartoon doesn’t make you belly laugh, then the animators haven’t done their job correctly. While you're at it, introduce your sons to one of the great comedy teams of all time—The 3 Stooges. If the material annoys your partner, all the better.

5. Build anything out of wood.
So, not every dad is a natural-born handyman, but neither are your boys. Still, every boy should learn how to use simple hardware tools. If you don’t know where to begin, check out our easy wood projects for kids here! 

grilling with family
iStock

6. Master the grill.
One of the rites of passage from childhood to adulthood includes learning how to cook food over a fire. When a kid becomes of age, learning when to take a burger off the heat before it becomes a hockey puck is priceless.

7. Visit an art museum.
Being able to appreciate culture is important for everyone. Show your son that being creative is just as important as being strong, competitive, or brave.

8. Share the skill of sandcastle architecture.
Every kid should learn the art of knowing the right ratio of sand and water it takes to create the perfect columns for the majestic medieval fortress. And don’t forget the moat! Check out other ways to play in the sand with kids here.

9. Create wrestle-mania in the living room.
This one needs no instructions. Just be sure that you clear out the coffee table or anything sharp before you get tackled.

10. Cliff dive.
AKA—having your boy jump off the side of the pool into your arms, but for your kid’s first time, it might as well be a cliff.

reading is a good father son activity
iStock

11. Share your favorite childhood book with him.
A favorite ritual for many kids is being tucked in bed with a good story. Reading the same “Happy Bunny” story over and over again can get old, but as your boy gets older, you’ll get to share with him some of your favorite stories from childhood.

12. Hit up the local skateboard park.
Help him master his ollies and kickflips, and you'll be even cooler. 

13. Take the jogger stroller out for a run. 
It’s hard enough to find time to work out when you have a little one. Get a jogger stroller, and you can run with the ultimate training partner.

14. Become a cookie master. 
Every boy should learn the fine art of Toll House cookie baking, and we’re not talking about the “slice and bake” cookie dough you find in the grocery store. Get out the recipe book and make ‘em from scratch.

15. Do something nice for Mom just because.
Whether it’s picking out a small bunch of flowers at the grocery store or making breakfast in bed (or both), teaching your son how to surprise mom with simple gestures “just because” is a practical way to express unconditional love.

iStock

16. Show him how to respect others.
Kids will naturally follow your lead when it comes to learning how to respect others, especially women. Watch how you talk to those around you, and they will too. As they get older, explain that everyone should be treated as equals and then lead by example.

17. Walk the dog together.
Too many of us have canine buddies at home that don’t get the exercise they need. Get the leash out and show junior how to take the reins.

18. Spend time outdoors with him. 
Some boys just naturally gravitate toward the great outdoors, while others need to be nudged. Take your son out for a short hike or take him out for a weekend camping trip. Take time to stop and look at the odd and unusual sites along the way. Show him that there is more to this world than just what he sees on the electronic screen.

19. Go to a water park or city pool. 
Playing in the water is great fun, and it'll make you feel young again too. If a local water park is too expensive, try out a local city pool. Today, many are equipped with their own waterslides and splash pools at a fraction of the cost. Tell your son that you can't leave until his hands take on a prune-like appearance.

20. Watch all of the good Star Wars movies. 
Everyone has an opinion on what makes a good or bad “Star Wars” movie. We can't help it. It's in our DNA. Still, they really should learn from an expert.

21. Get a haircut together. 
Spend an afternoon "spiffing up" at a classic barbershop with your son. If your kiddo is a first-timer, here are some helpful tips. 

Gift Habeshaw via Unsplash

22. Take him to a concert.
Whether your son is in grade school or junior high, he's not too young to appreciate music. Take him to an age-appropriate music concert and sing—loudly. We promise he'll always remember the experience.

23. Find the coolest playground.
These days, you'll find more and more playgrounds able to withstand the occasional adult wanting to play along. Take advantage of the opportunity. Your son will have a blast. 

24. Go to the library together.
Believe it or not, kids are still “doing” books with real pages and everything. Even if he has tons of books at home, bring him to the library anyway to find out what else is cool right now. Introduce him to Dr. Seuss classics or bring home something new.

25. Teach him how to shuffle cards. 
This is one of those skills that can be difficult to master but every boy should know how to shuffle cards whether he's playing Crazy 8’s or UNO.

26. Show him the world doesn't revolve around him. 
Nipping that “what’s in it for me?" attitude builds compassionate young men. Take your son to volunteer a shift at a local food bank or a simple project at a local parks department or church. Work on the task together, emphasize how you are helping others and how good that feels.

Related: 40 Fun Father & Daughter Activities to Build Special Memories

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16 Awesome Things to Do with Tweens & Teens in LA

by Jennifer O'Brien

Ziplining, a night food market, and indoor rock climbing all made the list

Looking for fun activities to do with your teens that aren’t total cringe or TikTok dances? We’re spilling the tea on some of the coolest experiences around LA—from teen-friendly stand-up shows and rad art exhibits to ziplining through the mountains and thrill-seeking theme parks. No matter what you choose, you’ll have an opportunity to reconnect and let loose with the people you love most.

The IRL Show at The Crow

Chris Mortenson

Need a laugh break from all the teen angst at home? Every fourth Friday of the month, The Crow (a female-owned Santa Monica Comedy Collaborative) hosts a show just for teens. The IRL Show is a teen-friendly comedy show for ages 13 and up featuring comics from Comedy Central, HBO, and late-night. If you come early, The Crow orders pizza for everyone and kids even get a chance to hop on stage before the show to work out their own material and receive feedback from a rotating cast of pros.

Tickets: $10 with student ID, $15 general admission.

The Crow
2525 Michigan Ave., Unit F4
Santa Monica
Online: crowcomedy.com

Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood

Pry your teen’s face away from their Nintendo Switch to experience the real deal. Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood is now open, fulfilling the Mario and Luigi dreams of kids (and adults) everywhere. If you’re willing to pay $40 for a Power-Up Band, you can participate in four interactive key challenges around the World that mimic Mario games. Once you earn three keys, you’re granted access to Bowser Jr.’s lair where you’ll take part in the ultimate boss battle. If you want to ride Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge or dine at Toadstool Café, we highly recommend arriving to the park as early as possible as both book up quickly. Also, if you can swing it, the Universal Express tickets or Early Access tickets are worth the extra dough during this crowded time to guarantee entry into the World without stressing about reservations.

Tickets: 1-day general admission from $109, Universal Express from $199, Early Access from $20 in addition to the cost of regular admission.

Universal Studios
100 Universal Plaza
Universal City
Online: universalstudioshollywood.com

Funko Hollywood

If you have a teen who’s into Funko pop culture collectibles and accessories, the Funko store in Hollywood slaps. Whether you’re into Harry Potter and Marvel collectibles or Stranger Things and Star Wars are more your jam, Funko brings different fandoms together to unite in the spirit of fun. The Hollywood location features larger-than-life photo ops for the gram, immersive sets inspired by your favorite worlds and characters, and one of the best selections of Funko merch around. Admission to the store is free.

Funko Hollywood
6201 Hollywood Blvd., #100
Hollywood
Online: funko.com

Jean Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure Exhibition

This special touring exhibition in DTLA invites guests to step inside a recreation of artist, Jean Michel Basquiat’s family home, art studio, and VIP room of New York’s Palladium nightclub which showcased two of his paintings. Over 200 rarely-shown pieces (paintings, drawings, and artifacts) are displayed throughout the space, providing a truly unique peek into the artist’s mind. The exhibition runs through July 31, 2023.

Tickets: Timed entry is $32 on weekdays, $35 on weekends, and children ages 3-13 are $25.

Jean Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure Exhibition
The Grand LA
100 S. Grand St.
DTLA
Online: kingpleasure.basquiat.com

Moonlight Rollaway

Lace your skates and hit up the legendary Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale for a groovy good time. Part of the LA scene for decades, this old-school roller rink has not only welcomed generation after generation of Angelenos but it’s also been a prized filming location for shows like Euphoria and The Goldbergs, as well as hosted a memorable performance by Lizzo, among others. Skate times vary depending on the day and lessons are available for young people on Saturdays.

Tickets: $19 per skater online and skate rental is available at the rink for $7.

Moonlight Rollerway
5110 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale
Online: moonlightrollerway.com

626 Nightmarket

If you haven’t been to 626 Nightmarket yet, uh hello, what are you waiting for? Inspired by the vibrant after-hours markets of Taiwan, 626 Nightmarket offers visitors a truly unique experience. Filled with indulgent food booths featuring items like deep-fried squid, potato swirls, and Hawaiian honeycombs, it’s a curious foodie paradise. There are also clothing, art, and gift vendors, as well as DJs, lasers, games, and gigantic baby bottles you can sip fruity drinks from (our personal fave). Most vendors accept Square, Venmo, or ApplePay, but be sure to have some cash on hand for those that don’t. Along with the market’s original location at the Santa Anita Racetrack, other markets are available around town too so be sure to check the site for dates.

Tickets: $5 online or $6 at the door. Parking is free

626 Nightmarket
Various LA Locations
Online: 626nightmarket.com

iFly Hollywood

Every parent wants their child to soar beyond their wildest dreams, so take ‘em to iFly! Located at Universal Citywalk, iFly offers visitors a chance to experience the heart-pounding thrill of indoor skydiving. When you arrive, you’ll meet with a world-class flight instructor who will show you the ropes then you’ll put on your flight suit, step into the wind tunnel, and up, up, and away you go! Happy flying!

Cost: Different flight packages are available starting at $69 and up.

iFly
1000 Universal Studios Blvd., #1
Universal City
Online: iflyworld.com/Hollywood

Two Bit Circus

As the world’s first micro-amusement park, Two Bit Circus features 38,000 sq. ft of never-ending fun. From a Midway filled with games and classic coin-op machines to immersive story rooms, an arcade, a VR arena, and interactive gameshows, there’s truly something for everyone. With all this excitement, your teens will definitely work up an appetite, so be sure to stop by the Box Car for creative and delicious carny treats before you head home.

Tickets: Packages start at $35 depending on the number in your party and what activities you’d like to do.

Two Bit Circus
634 Mateo St.
DTLA
Online: twobitcircus.com

Dreamscape

Experience a mind-blowing new storytelling medium that combines the emotional power of cinematic storytelling with the thrill of theme park rides at Dreamscape, the ultimate destination for virtual reality entertainment. Guests suit up in their gear (light backpack, hand trackers, foot trackers, and VR headset) and are transported to fantastic worlds beyond their wildest imaginations, including DreamWorks Dragons Flight Academy, MIB: First Assignment, Alien Zoo, The Blu: Deep Rescue, and Curse of the Lost Pearl: A Magic Projector Adventure. Each experience lasts 10-14 min. and comfortable clothes (no flip-flops) are recommended.

Tickets: $23 per person online.

Dreamscape
10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Century City
Online: dreamscapeimmersive.com

 

Hatch Escapes: Lab Rat

Who doesn’t dig a good escape room? Hatch Escapes: Lab Rat takes place in a laboratory where giant rats are doing experiments on human beings – that means you! Unhinged Dr. Ratkenstein has tasked you with completing a series of tests and puzzles. If you succeed, he gets to write his dissertation. If you don’t, he puts you and your pals in the old chipper—and that doesn’t sound great. You have only one hour to escape from the lab – so better get crackin’!

Tickets: Start at $44 per person.

Hatch Escapes
1919 3rd Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: hatchescapes.com

Sender One LAX

Climb to new heights at Sender One LAX. As one of the city’s premier climbing destinations, Sender One offers a fantastic range of activities for tweens and teens at all experience levels. From the Sender City interactive climbing center where kids gear up with auto belay devices to scale tall buildings and crazy towers in the sky to learning bouldering and rope climbing (open to ages 14+) in the other areas of the gym, it’s a great workout, you gain self-confidence and most importantly, have tons of fun.  If you want to boulder or rope climb on your own, the gym requires visitors to take the 1-hour class, Intro to Rope Climbing, first.

Cost: A youth day pass with rental gear (ages 6-13) is $34 and the Intro to Climbing Class & day pass (ages, 14+, rental gear included) is $39.

Sender One LAX
11220 Hindry Ave.
Los Angeles    
Online: senderoneclimbing.com/lax

K1 Speed

Does your teen feel the need, the need for speed? Check out K1 Speed for some of the best go-karting in SoCal. With locations in Burbank, Torrance, Irvine, and Anaheim, there’s bound to be a spot close to you. No reservations are necessary, just arrive and drive. Adult and junior electric karts are available, and the challenging indoor track is crazy fun. There’s also a restaurant on-site, as well as an arcade with billiards and air hockey. Closed-toed shoes are required to race and a helmet and headsock will be provided for you.

Cost: Races start at $27.95 per person.

K1 Speed
Four SoCal Locations
Online: k1speed.com

 

 

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Sure, everyone loves Disneyland, but when you have a teen coaster fiend, Six Flags Magic Mountain may be more up their alley. With 20 world-class roller coasters – more than any other theme park on the planet, there’s much more thrill than chill here. From Wonder Woman Flight of Courage – the tallest and longest single rail coaster in the world to West Coast Racers – the world’s first single track quadruple launch racing coaster, Magic Mountain is really at the top of their game when it comes to the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Tickets: Single-day tickets start at $69.99 per person.

Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy.
Valencia
661-255-4100
Online: sixflags.com/magicmountain

Raging Waters

As the biggest water park in California, it’s no surprise Raging Waters is a fan fave during the summer. Less than an hour's drive from LA, Raging Waters features 50 world-class attractions for all ages, including Aqua Rocket – California’s hydromagnetic water coaster, a variety of tube and body slides, a lazy river, a one-million-gallon wave pool, and a 30,000 sq. ft. water playground. And coming this season, guests can check out the new Bombs Away, a pair of heart-pounding drop tubes where the floor drops out from under you, and one sends you flying straight down at 26 ft. per second while the other tube loops you around and around until you hit the water. Yikes, better you than us!

Tickets: Tickets start at $69 per person, but be sure to check their website for any promotions.

Raging Waters
111 Raging Waters Dr.
San Dimas
909-802-2200
Online: ragingwaters.com

 

Marvin Braude Bike TRail

Craving some good quality time with your teen? There’s no better way to spend the day together than biking the Marvin Braude Bike Trail ­– the famous 22-mile paved bike path that runs from Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades through all the South Bay beach communities and harbors at Marina Del Rey and Redondo Beach Pier in Torrance. If you don’t have bikes of your own, there are plenty of affordable rental shops along the path in Santa Monica. There are also fantastic places to pull over and eat along the way, whether it’s Back on the Beach in Santa Monica, a cafe along the Venice Boardwalk, or one of the delicious dining spots on the Redondo Beach Pier.

Marvin Braude Bike Trail
Starts at Temescal Canyon & PCH, ends at Redondo Beach Pier
Online: beaches.lacounty.gov/la-county-beach-bike-path

Ziplines at Pacific Crest

Located just 75 miles from LA in the San Gabriel Mountains, Ziplines at Pacific Crest is ready to give your family a thrilling day to remember. With two zipline challenge courses, there’s something for every daredevil in your brood. The Canopy Tour offers heights of up to 300 ft. off the forest floor and lengths of over 1,500 ft. while the Mountain View Tour provides a totally unique zipline experience with the bonus of leaping off a tree platform in a controlled free-fall. There’s also the Quest Tour for people who have less time to spend, but still want a taste of ziplining, or the Ultimate All-Day Adventure which includes six hours of ziplining, rappelling, hiking, and lunch.

Tickets: Start at $94 per person depending on tour.

Ziplines at Pacific Crest
6014 Park Dr.
Wrightwood
Online: ziplinespc.com

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14 Things to Do on New Year’s Eve with Kids in San Francisco

by Nicole Findlay

Looking for where to celebrate New Years 2022 in the Bay Area? We’ve gathered 14 family-friendly New Year’s Eve 2022 events all in one place—most of which don’t require staying up late

Instead of googling “New Year’s Eve events for kids” take a look at our list below to see all the fun things to do in San Francisco and the Bay Area on the very last day of 2022. Depending on your kids, you can ring in the New Year with your little ones with loads of mid-day celebrations (and avoid those close-to-midnight meltdowns) or opt for some nighttime adventures if they can hang late night. Ready to check out our favorite Bay Area spots for New Years Eve events for kids and get ready to say hello to 2023? Insider Tip: Some of our favorite Bay Area holiday light displays are only up through New Year’s Day so you can always pull a two-for-one on your winter bucket list by adventuring to one of our must-go experiences.

Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events near Me

1. First Night Monterey

This year's theme celebrates 30 years of First Night Monterey! First Night Monterey and Kids' Night Out kicks off at 3 p.m. and then continues with 9 hours of fabulous art, music and New Year's fun all the way into the New Year! Be part of this family friendly, alcohol-free celebration ringing in 2023! Event details. 

2. 'Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!' at the Schulz Museum

Celebrate the New Year with the Peanuts Gang! Enjoy fun crafts for kids, make a balloon Snoopy, and watch Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! on the big screen. Plus, do your best Snoopy dance and ring in 2023 with an Up Down Balloon Drop and Baby Balloon Drop (for children 4 and under and their families) at noon, and a second Balloon Drop at 3:00 p.m. Doors open at 10:00 am, and capacity will be monitored; admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Event details. 

3. 23rd Annual Balloon Drop at the Chabot Space & Science Center

Ring in the New Year without staying up all night! Celebrate strokes of midnight around the world at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Kids will count down and celebrate with hundreds of colorful balloons dropping from above. Insider Tip: This popular annual event regularly sells out, so be sure to get tickets early. Event details.

4. Noon Year's Eve at the Bay Area Discover Museum

Ring in the new year without keeping your family up past bedtime. Celebrate the start of 2023 at Bay Area Discovery Museum with this beloved annual affair. This kid-friendly celebration is where you can enjoy the countdown without the midnight meltdown! Watch the ball drop at noon, enjoy a live DJ and join in a dance party, plus explore more winter festivities and new programs at Bay Area Discovery Museum, including iceless skating! Event details. 

5. City of Piedmont’s Noon Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year with Piedmont Recreation Department at a family-friendly hour! Celebrate with music, magician show, a countdown to noon, balloon drop and a whole lot of fun! Event details.

6. Noon Year's Eve at the Hiller Aviation Museum

Music, dancing, puppet shows, and giant balloon drops at noon will are sure to bring excitement into the new year. Event details.

7. New Year's Eve Celebration at Gilroy Gardens

Ring in the new year at Gilroy Gardens! You'll find ice skating under the stars, sparkly light displays, dance parties, and festive food throughout the park. Event details.

 

8. 37th Annual Bell Ringing Ceremony at the Asian Art Museum

The first in-person bell-ringing ceremony since 2019: after two years of ringing the bell virtually, one of the museum’s most popular and long-running annual events is happening in person again. Ring in the New Year by taking a swing at a 2,100-pound, 16th-century Japanese temple bell. Led by Reverend Gengo Akiba, this inspiring ceremony will include a purification ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart Sutra. Reverend Akiba will begin the bell-ringing, and then it’s your chance to ring the bell to leave behind any unfortunate experiences, regrettable deeds or ill luck from the previous year. Event details. 

9. Noon Year's Eve at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

The countdown to midnight may (typically) belong to the adults, but Happy Hollow’s Noon Year’s Eve celebration is all about outdoor fun for the little ones. Event details.

10. New Year's Eve Kid's Party at Kid's Play Zone

Celebrate the New Year at Kid's Play Zone, an indoor children’s play space with a glow party and balloon drop. Entry includes a glow necklace, apple juice for the kids (cider for the adults), plus pizza for all to enjoy. Event details.

11. 2022 Grand Finale at The Lawrence Hall of Science

Join the annual New Year's Eve celebration with confetti cannons. With several daily launches, you’ll be showered with joy and laughter as you close 2022. Event details.

12. New Year's Eve Party at Swings & Wings

This cute New Year’s Eve party will have music, play, a photo booth and yummy treats for kids. Event details.

13. Noon Year's Eve Family Storytime at the Danville Library

Families can enjoy stories and songs, festive favors, even a celebratory bubble wrap stomp on the floor at the Danville Library. Event details.

14. Winter Wonderland Walk with East Bay Regional Park Disctrict

On Dec. 31, discover what animals and plants do to prepare for cold months while you warm up with apple cider and walk a one-mile wintry trail. Event details.

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14 Things to Do on New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles with Kids

by Jennifer O'Brien

New Year’s Eve with kids in LA can be super fun (we promise!) and here are 14 things to do on NYE in LA with the family that proves just that

We’re quickly approaching the end of 2022 and you’ve seen the best holiday lights around LA, maybe even found some snow near LA, and skated away on the area’s best ice rinks so now it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve with events near me and Los Angeles. Thankfully, you don’t have to stay up until midnight (if you don’t want to) with these family-friendly events that put on a show, all before the clock strikes 12. From ogling millions of colored lights at the L.A. Zoo to catching a stage show at the Santa Monica Playhouse, there’s something for everyone on the last day of 2022. Here are the best family-friendly things to do in LA on New Year’s Eve.

The Best Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles & New Years Events near Me

where to celebrate NYE in LA
Winter Fest OC

1. Ring in the New Year at Winter Fest OC

New Year's Eve Parenting Win: Winter Fest OC celebrates the New Year not once, but twice with a special countdown, dazzling firework show, snow flurries and confetti cannons. The first celebration takes place at 6 p.m. for those that can't (or don't want to) stay up late and then again at midnight for older kids. Filled with winter attractions such as ice tubing, ice bumper cars, carnival rides and games and ice skating, the all-new North Pole Journey pop-up walk-through experience, live entertainment from popular tribute bands, seasonal food and drinks, dozens of photo opportunities and much more, this is bound to be a New Year celebration your kids won't forget.

Online:  winterfestoc.com

2. New Year's Eve at Disneyland

With the park decorated to the nines for the holiday season, there’s no more magical place to celebrate New Year’s Eve than Disneyland. Mickey and his pals will ring in the new year with a holiday-themed parade, fireworks, and more. All of the restaurants inside the park will also feature special events and NYE menus for the occasion so be sure to do some research and book a reservation ahead of time.

Online: disneyland.disney.go.com

3. LEGOLAND Kid's New Year's Eve

Midnight arrives early in Carlsbad as LEGOLAND recreates the famous "Times Square" ball drop with a Kids’ New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy rides, activities, and festivities that include a fireworks show to welcome the new year.

Online: legoland.com

4. Knott's Berry Farm NYE

Knott’s Berry Farm has something for the entire family this New Year’s Eve with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, festive dance music, DJs, bands, a family-friendly comedian, party hats, noisemakers, fantastic food, and special extended hours. If you can swing it, stay for the midnight fireworks—a spectacular way to usher in 2023.

Online: knotts.com

 

5. Santa Monica Playhouse NYE Show


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The 51st Annual All-New One-Time-Only New Year’s Eve Revue is a treat for the entire brood! The internationally acclaimed Actors’ Repertory Theatre puts on a family-friendly musical revue with prizes, sing-a-longs, dancing, and comedy. The 7 p.m. show is ideal for little ones who like to party down and still get to bed at a reasonable hour. Advanced reservations are required and can be made online.

Date: Dec. 31; 7 p.m. & 10 p.m.
Cost: 7 p.m. show: $39.50/adults & $24.50/kids 12 and under. 10 p.m. show: $49.50/adults & $34.50/kids 12 and under.

1211 4th St.
Santa Monica
Online: santamonicaplayhouse.com

6. Pull My Finger: New Year's Eve Edition!

Touted as a "G-rated family-friendly comedy show" Pull My Finger: New Year's Eve Edition! is a family-friendly show full of belly-laughing stand-up, improv, and a high level of silliness.

Date: Dec. 31; 5 p.m.
Cost: $25

The Crow
2525 Michigan Ave.
Santa Monica
Online: jetbook.co

7. New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display & GLOW Party

Head to Marina del Rey and join in the Glow Party with fun activities like live DJs, dancing, cricuit breaker robots, face painting, bubbles, photo booths, food trucks, free giveaways, and more. The best part though for parents with young kids? There are two, 10-minute fireworks shows following a 30-second countdown. The first starts at 8:59 p.m. (timed with New York's ball drop) and for those with older kids, another countdown and fireworks display starts at 11:59 p.m. Fireworks can be seen from Burton Chace Park, Fisherman's village or other waterfront restaurants in Marina del Rey.

Good to Know: Parking is available for $8 in County lots #77 and #4, located at 13650 and 13500 Mindanao Way respectively.

Date: Dec. 31; 7-midnight
Cost: Free

13650 Mindanao Way
Marine del Rey
Online: beaches.lacounty.gov

More New Year Events near Me

8. Universal Studios Hollywood Eve

Spend the day enjoying the rides and attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood then spend the night partying down at Universal’s "Eve" event which includes multiple celebration areas that will feature dancing, music, and a midnight countdown with fireworks.

Date: Dec. 31; 9 p.m.-2 a.m.
Cost: $139 general admission, the "Eve" event is included with admission

100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City
Online: universalstudioshollywood.com

9. New Year’s Eve Presented by Night Dive at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Dive into 2023 at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s New Year’s Eve Night Dive. Start the new year with the fish as you boogie to the tunes of a live band playing in the Great Hall and DJs spinning in the galleries- all leading up to the confetti countdown at midnight! Snap a pic in the photo booth, grab a drink from the cash bars or a tasty snack at Café Scuba before visiting with all your favorite animals. Plus, you never know what surprises are in store at Night Dive! Doors open at 8:00 p.m., countdown is at midnight (obviously), but the party won’t stop until 1 a.m. Dress to the nines or wear your pajamas—you do you!

Date: Dec. 31; 8 p.m.-1 a.m.
Cost: $60

100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach
Online: aquariumofpacific.org

 

10. Santa’s Speedway Christmas

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Get the chance to drive on an actual Nascar track, as the Irwindale Speedway becomes Santa’s Christmas Speedway this holiday season. Drive through eight show-stopping themed areas including a record-breaking 110-foot tall tree of lights! Be sure to tune your car’s radio to the event station to hear Christmas tunes and more. 

Date: Dec. 31; 5-9 p.m.
Cost: $35/adult, $19/child, 2 and under free

500 Speedway Dr.
Irwindale
Online: santasspeedway.com

11. L.A. Zoo Lights Animals Aglow

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHIho7sLO6/?hidecaption=true

See the zoo like you’ve never seen it before: at night and totally lit up. The entire place is filled with wildlife-inspired displays, dynamic lights and projections, immersive interactive experiences, and fabulous photo ops. Keep an eye out for some of the zoo's more nocturnal animals who might make a special appearance. The highlight of the night is definitely the spectacular 200-foot tunnel of twinkling and dancing lights. Enjoy a buffet dinner, dessert, dancing, and a live broadcast of the Times Square ball drop at 9 p.m. CA time.

When: Dec. 31; 6-10 p.m.
Cost: $39/adults, $32/children (2-12); VIP pricing available

5333 Zoo Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: lazoo.org

12. Echo Park Swan Boats 

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Spend the last evening of 2022 on Echo Park Lake in an iconic swan boat. Take an illuminated ride after 5 p.m. when the boats are all aglow with holiday-worthy lights. Watch the sun set with a breathtaking view of city skyscrapers and palm trees. Be sure to bundle up as it can get very chilly on the water. Reservations required.

Date: Dec. 31; 5-9 p.m.
Cost: $11/adult (18 & up), $6/child

751 Echo Park Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: wheelfunrentals.com

13. Grand Park & The Music Center's N.Y.E.L.A.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CX63MVOMWmF/?hidecaption=true

NYC has its ball drop, but LA is hot on its heels with a New Year’s Eve celebration to rival the Big Apple. Gates open at 8 p.m. for this music-filled event. Count down to the new year with an amazing light show spectacular that'll surely wow the kiddos. The best part is, if you prefer to don your jammies rather than bundle up the kids and jockey for parking, you can watch it all go down on the city’s YouTube channel from the comfort of your own living room. 

Date: Dec. 31; 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Cost: Free

200 N Grand Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: grandparkla.org & youtube.com

14. Pretend City Noon-Year’s Eve Confetti Countdown

With sparkling streamers, noisemakers, and festive party hats, Pretend City Children’s Museum will host its Annual Noon-Year’s Confetti Countdown that even the littlest revelers adore (and you’ll love that they can still sleep through the night). The event celebrates the new year across four different time zones throughout the day with midnight in Bangladesh, Dubai, Athens, and London.

Online: pretendcity.org

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Your Guide to Seattle’s Must-Do Downtown Holiday Attractions

by Jeff Totey

We’ve gathered all the Seattle Christmas events in one spot so your fam can get into the holiday spirit with ease

After a couple of quiet years, Seattle is buzzing again this holiday season with returning and new favorite holiday events to explore. In fact, with so many things to do in downtown Seattle, you and the kids don’t need to go anywhere else to find (or spread) winter cheer. Our list (don’t worry, we checked it twice) includes everything from Santa sightings and steamy cups of hot cocoa paired with carolers to festive music, dancing nutcrackers, and a lot more. So get out your calendar, it’s time to schedule the Seattle Christmas events you really want to make time for this season.

Seattle holiday events you won’t want to miss

Kringle's Filling Station

Kringle's Filling Station

Part arcade, part neighborhood hangout, Kringle's Filling Station is perfect for families with older children. This pop-up event has set up shop along Aurora Ave. at an old gas station. Legend has it that the Kringle Family has come to offer hot chocolate out of the old gas tanks (don't worry, it's completely safe and sanitary!), let guests play unlimited rounds of "Ski-Ball", play "Reindeer Games" or sing holiday karaoke. You even have exclusive access to the Kringles' private office. Add-ons include the brand-new Speedway Slot Cars and photo booth aboard Santa's new-and-improved sleigh (you'll have to see it to believe it). 

Insider Tip: Santa's scheduled to visit the Filling Station December 1, 9, 16 and 22. And Krampus will be making an appearance on December 20 and 21.

Good to Know: Be sure to order your tickets online to reserve your time.

Dates: Nov. 25, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023 

8211 Aurora Ave. N.
Seattle
Online: kringlesfillingstation.com

Related: The City's Best Places for Santa Photos

Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton Grand Seattle

We are beyond thrilled to see that the annual Gingerbread Village is back at the Sheraton Grand Seattle this year. If you've never been or if it has been a while, this really is a must-see event. Now in its 28th year, the event matches Seattle's top architecture firms, master builders, and the Sheraton Grand Seattle's culinary teams to create amazing works of edible art. This year's theme is focusing on Buzz Lightyear, but don't be surprised if a few other Toy Story characters show up too. Some of the gingerbread creations have great names like "Courage Against Zurg," "The Future is Bright," and of course, "To Infinity and Beyond!" While the exhibit is free, donations will be gladly accepted to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDRF).

Dates: Nov. 22, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

Sheraton Grand Seattle
1400 6th Ave.
Seattle
Online: jdrf.org

Seattle Center Winterfest

Seattle Center is doing it up for the holidays starting the day after Thanksgiving and running through the New Year. If you're looking for free and affordable holiday activities and entertainment, head to the heart of the city. Kids can marvel as a miniature locomotive makes it way through a turn-of-the-century village inside the Armory and complete a scavenger hunt while they're at it (you'll find sheets at the train station). Follow it up with a weekend ice sculpting demonstration or a live performance at the Armory (hint: we're looking forward to the School of Rock Seattle performance on December 10, SANCA's youth performers on December 17, and the KlezKids performance on the 24th) before grabbing something tasty for dinner. Wander through the Campus Luminata light display and end at the International Fountain where things are always hopping before heading home.

Holiday highlight: Take a trip to the top of the Space Needle to grab a picture with jolly old St. Nick in his glass sleigh. Seeing the city's Christmas lights below are totally worth the trip. As for New Year's Eve, plan an evening of music at Seattle Center, or if your kids won't last that long, plan to spend the day at the Seattle Children's Museum for their Winter Market Event featuring a "Noon Year's Eve" pj party and a sock skating rink.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 31, 2022

305 Harrison St.
Seattle
Online: seattlecenter.com

white glass sculptures are part of Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit a seattle christmas event for this year
courtesy Chihuly Garden and Glass

Winter Brilliance

While you're at Seattle Center, be sure to swing into Chihuly Garden and Glass to see Winter Brilliance. The display features over 700 hand-blown glass sculptures and combines glass art, video projection technology, and music for a full-sensory experience. One of the newest Seattle Christmas events, it celebrates the magic of the season in a whole new way. Catch the show in Gallery 1 into the new year when you visit.

Dates: Nov. 17, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023

Chihuly Garden and Glass
305 Harrison St.
Seattle
Online: chihulygardenandglass.com

Photo © Angela Sterling

George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

With lavish sets and costumes designed by Ian Falconer (of Olivia fame) and the ever-mesmerizing choreography of Balanchine, Pacific Northwest Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a forever favorite for many Seattle families. This full-length show is best suited for school-aged kids, but theatergoers of all ages will be glued to their seats for the entire two-plus hour show, basking in the care and craftsmanship of this delightful production. The 40-foot-tall Christmas tree, snow flurries on stage and Mother Ginger’s magical skirt (it weighs more than 60 pounds!) are all part of what makes this production one of the best around.

Insider Tip: A sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for December 21 at 2 p.m.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 27, 2022

McCaw Hall
321 Mercer St.
Seattle
Event details

Paddington Saves Christmas

Another theater production you won't want to miss is SCT's latest. Even the tiniest theater lovers will be able to enjoy this holiday show, starring their favorite clumsy Bear, Paddington. With his telltale red hat and blue coat, they’ll fall for Paddington’s innocent antics as he works to save Christmas from being a total disaster. It all starts out simply enough—with Paddington and Mrs. Bird making the holiday marmalade (for Paddington’s sandwiches, of course). But oops!—they’ve run out of sugar. A trip to borrow some from grumpy neighbor, Mr. Curry, turns into more than Paddington bargained for when he agrees to help out with household chores in exchange. Things sort of snowball from there, leaving poor Paddington to fix it all before December 25. The show runs for 70 minutes with no intermission.

Insider Tip: There is a sensory-friendly performance scheduled for Dec. 11 at 11 a.m.

Dates: Nov. 15-Dec. 31, 2022

Seattle Children's Theatre
201 Thomas St.
Seattle
Event details

Related: Bravo! 17 Must-See Holiday Shows for Families

Downtown Seattle Association

Holiday Lights & Delights

Ride the monorail from Seattle Center to Westlake Park to take advantage of this larger-than-life holiday display that features over 80,000 lights. All season long, enjoy memory-making moments with Holiday Lights & Delights and enjoy free, family-friendly activities at Westlake Park and Occidental Square each weekend. Don't forget your phones! In addition, enjoy live music by local artists on Fridays (Dec. 9 & 16) from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. at Westlake Park. This is where you'll also find Family Fun featuring crafts, characters, and snow flurries on Saturday, December 10 and 17. Or you can head on over to Pioneer Square on the same days to hear live carolers while sipping free cocoa and munching on cookies from noon-3 p.m.

Dates: Nov. 25, 2022-Jan. 7, 2023

Westlake Park
401 Pine St.
Seattle

Occidental Square
117 S. Washington St.
Seattle
Online: downtownseattle.org

Related: Watts Up: The Coolest Light Displays in Seattle You Need to See

kids are ice skating a special christmas activity at an outdoor rink
iStock

Pop-Up Ice Skating Rink at Occidental Square

For one weekend only, families can enjoy this pop-up ice skating rink in downtown Seattle. Free for everyone, the ice rink will be filled with skaters of all ages and abilities. If you’ve got your own skates, bring them along. If not, they’ll have skates on hand to borrow. Just remember to bundle up—this rink is totally outside.

Date: Dec. 9-11, 2022

117 S. Washington St.
Seattle
Event details

Related: Take a Spin around Seattle's Seasonal (& Year-Round) Ice Skating Rinks

Teddy Bear Suite at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Big bears, lil’ bears, brown bears, white bears! This beary special holiday event is a must-see for kids of all ages. Located inside the elegant Fairmont Olympic Hotel, the Teddy Bear Suite is exactly that and so much more. See teddy bears galore along with beautiful holiday decorations and Christmas trees. The Teddy Bear Suite is also the perfect spot to grab a holiday photo of the kids (think: cute, cuddly holiday cards) or chillax and enjoy a teddy bear-themed book. Psst! After visiting the Teddy Bear Suite on the second floor, stop by the lower lobby to check out the hotel's magnificent gingerbread display made out of 4,000 real gingerbread bricks.

Good to know: ​Donations are appreciated to benefit uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Seattle Children's Autism Center.

Dates: Nov. 25, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

411 University St.
Seattle
Online: seattlefestivaloftrees.com

A diving santa and an elf at Seattle Aquarium are one of many Seattle christmas events for families in the area
Seattle Aquarium

Diving Santa

Did you know that when Santa isn’t supervising elves and delivering toys, he's scuba diving? Come see for yourself when he dives in the Seattle Aquarium’s Window on Washington Waters exhibit this holiday season. While you're there, enjoy live holiday music, story times with Santa, marine mammal meet and greets, and more. Santa and pals will be taking to the water on three different dates this year. Catch him at noon or 3 p.m. on December 17 and 18 or at noon on Christmas Eve. 

Dates: Dec. 17, 18 & 24, 2022

Seattle Aquarium
1483 Alaskan Way
Seattle
Online: seattleaquarium.org

Urban Craft Uprising at South Lake Union Winter Market

Families can shop 'til they drop at Urban Craft Uprising's annual outdoor winter show, held outside the Nitro Building in South Lake Union. It's the easy way to shop small and local this holiday season. The event is free and family-friendly, and it will feature different vendors on different days, so you can go twice to see all the goodies.

Dates: Dec. 8 & 9, 2022

Outside the Nitro Building
2250 7th Ave.
Seattle
Online: urbancraftuprising.com

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