Visiting these u-pick apple farms are the perfect way to welcoming in the fall season

Apple picking season has officially arrived so get ready to have bushels of fun at these beautiful apple picking farms around the San Diego area. Lucky for us, Julian, a.k.a. the West Coast hub of apple picking, is just a short drive away. From orchards with oodles of variety to ones with certified organic crops, we’ve put together a list of places that are ripe for a festive fall day out with the fam. Apple season generally runs from early September to mid-October, so check out all the juicy details on where and when to go and if you need a reservation.

Good to Know: Be sure to check the orchard’s websites and social media before heading out since they provide the latest updates during the apple-picking season and supply availability.

Julian Farm & Orchard
This 25-acre sustainable, working farm offers fun for all ages year-round, but apple picking season is one of our favorite times to visit. Julian Farm and Orchard features sprawling apple orchards and a festive u-pick experience only available by booking a reservation for one of their staff-led apple tours. Before or after the tour, your brood can enjoy the farm’s rock-climbing wall, animal sanctuary, tractor hayrides, axe throwing, craft area, and apple cider press.

Insider’s Tip: If your kiddos have any energy left after all that apple picking, stop by the Julian Mining Company just across the road for even more fun activities like mining for gems and panning for gold. You can also pick apples here as well!
Picking Dates: This season will be in Sept. so be sure to sign up on their website to be notified as soon as apple tour reservations go live.

Julian Farm & Orchard
4444 State Hwy 78
Julian
Online: julianfarmandorchard.com

Peacefield Orchard
Pick from where the rumored oldest apple tree is in Julian: the “Granny Gravenstein.”  You’ll find more than 200 other trees on 2.5 acres bearing dazzling Red, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathan and Jonagold apples so you’re bound to find some super sweet pickings to take home.

Picking Dates: Open to the public, Sat. – Sun., 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. during Sept. Orchard tours and u-pick appointments are also available.

Peacefield Orchard
3803 Wynola Rd.
Julian
Online: 3803wynolaroad.com

Volcan Valley Apple Farm
With 10 gorgeous acres to roam, Volcan Valley Apple Farm is Julian’s largest orchard. Every fall, this magical spot comes alive with over 8,000 trellis-grown apple trees filled with varieties of red and green apples including Empire, Jonathan, and Red Delicious. Purchase a bag that holds 6 – 7 lbs. of apples, then head into the fields to fill it up.

Insider’s Tip: Cashless payment only. Plan to visit in early Sept. rather than late fall since the season only last about 4-6 weeks while they still have apples.
Picking Dates: The Gravenstein Apple Festival is coming in Aug., but picking season is Sept. – early Oct. with exact dates TBD. Orchard hours are Fri., Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No reservations necessary.

Volcan Valley Apple Farm
1284 Julian Orchards Dr.
Julian
Online: volcanvalleyapplefarm.com

Ranchita del Reo
Your family will get more than just a u-pick bag of apples from this fifth-generation family farm in Julian. You’ll get an extra special experience when you book your private 30-minute slot to have the entire orchard to yourselves. Choose from three different reservation packages that include not only a bag to hold apples but also come with the bonus of homemade goodies like homemade jams to enjoy with cheese and crackers in the orchard while you relax or to take home for later.

Picking Dates: Their season usually runs Sept. – Nov., Fri. – Mon., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. – exact dates TBD. Picking is via reservation only.

Ranchita Del Reo
1711 Highway 78
Julian
Online: visitjulian.com

Crosscut Farm and Orchard
This is a group apple-picking site that allows a minimum of 10 people per group and a maximum of 50. Make your reservations early at this family-friendly mom-and-pop operation because they’re only open for one week of apple picking. The orchard has about 700 trees to choose from including Golden Delicious, Jonathan, and Liberty apples. And while they are not certified organic, they do use “organic practices” and don’t spray their trees. An introduction to apple farming, an apple cider pressing demonstration, and parking are also included in the fee.

Picking Dates: Sept. 16 – 24, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1 p.m – 3p.m., and 3 p.m – 5 p.m. Pre-paid reservations online are required.

Crosscut Farm and Orchard
1209 Farmer Rd.
Julian
Online: crosscutfarmandorchard.com

Apples and Art Orchards
This orchard is only for large groups who are expecting to pick 20 bags of apples or more per reservation – perfect for a homeschooling group, scouts, sports teams, family gatherings, or playgroups. This all-natural, pesticide-free, non-GMO orchard is featuring many apple varieties this year, including McIntosh, Red and Golden Delicious, Williams Pride, Chehalis, Liberty, Arkansas Black, Enterprise, Hatsuke, and some heirlooms. Since they ripen at different times, not all varieties will be available during your visit. In addition to apple picking, groups receive a tour of the orchard, as well as a free apple cider-making lesson and tasting experience.

Picking Dates: Daily starting Sept. 8 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. by email reservation only.

Apple and Art Orchards
1052 Julian Orchards Dr.
Julian, CA
Online: applesandartorchards.com

Good Tips for Apple Picking

1. Go early in the season and check ahead to confirm that apples are still available for picking: Once the apples are gone, that’s it until the next year. Most orchards report updates on their socials or website.

2. Bring the right money: Some orchards only accept cash, while some only take cards. Do your research and maybe even bring both.

3. Prepare to spend more money than you would on grocery store apples: The apple-picking experience costs more than your usual trip to the produce section, but is worth the fun once a year!

4. Don’t fret about not being able to pick tons of apples: Most orchards have pre-bagged apples available for purchase if your little farmers grow weary of picking early on.

5. Don’t expect cold weather: Just because Julian is in the mountains doesn’t mean you’ll need a jacket. Check the temps before you make the trip and pack water, sun hats, sunscreen, close-toed shoes, and maybe a little bug repellant.

6. Make a day of it and experience Julian: This mining town has so many fun things to do besides apple picking. Julian is best when you allow yourself an entire day to explore.

Additional reporting by Bonnie Taylor

The holidays may be months away, but the Seattle Christmas Ship Festival will be here before you know it. Get tickets while you can

The Seattle Christmas Ship Festival is back in 2022! One of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions, if you can’t wait to experience this dose of holiday cheer, you’re in luck. Whether you want to catch a ride with St. Nick on the The Spirit of Seattle or want to listen to the choir, gathered ’round a bonfire at a local beach, there are tons of ways families can enjoy this Pacific Northwest tradition. Remember that this super popular event sells out quickly, as do reservations at local restaurants. So if you want to get in on the singing, Santa, lighted boat action, now is the time to do it.

Experience the Seattle Christmas Ship Festival

Christmas ship seattle

Ride the Christmas Ship Lead Boat

Every year Argosy Cruises pulls out all the stops with the spectacularly decorated Spirit of Seattle, the designated Christmas Ship that all the other boats follow. During the 90-minute cruise, a local choir sings at scheduled shore side locations (see schedule below) and Santa mingles with the kids and smiles for holiday pictures. While on board you can expect some holiday sing-alongs and a very special reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas with Santa. The boat has two fully enclosed, heated decks, one outside deck, restrooms and a cash bar. While cruisin’ the waters, you and your little elves can enjoy snacks, chowder and beverages available for purchase. Reserve online.

Cost: $54/Adult; $40/Kid (4–12); $50/Senior; Free, kids 3 & under; $72/person for Opening Night (Nov. 25) & Grande Finale (Dec. 23)

Follow the Christmas Ship Boat

Being on the Christmas Ship is quite a treat, but so is riding the Follow Boat that (you guessed it) follows the lead ship. Not only will you get fantastic photos of the Spirit of Seattle, but you’ll get many of the Christmas Ship perks, too. Fully enclosed with outside areas, restrooms and food and drink for purchase, the follow boat cruise is a bit longer and includes a broadcast of the choir aboard The Spirit of Seattle. So far the Follow Boat will run on two nights—

Good to Know: This year the Follow Boat is 21 and over. Maybe a great date night?

Cost: $57/Person

Related: Can't-Miss Holiday Attractions in Downtown Seattle

Christmas ship Seattle

Dine at a Waterfront Restaurant

Because sitting down to dinner at a restaurant with a view is always in season, here’s a fun idea: check the sailing schedule below and pick a primo viewing location with nearby waterfront restaurants, like Lake Union, Alki, Redondo Beach or Leschi. Places like Duke’sAnthony’sSalty’s and Ivar’s Salmon House are all great options with covered outdoor seating and viewing decks, so you and the fam can feast your eyes on a panorama of glowing boats while also enjoying a fine meal.

Watch from the Shore at Local Beaches & Parks

Whether it’s your neighborhood beach park or a stunning downtown location like the Olympic Sculpture Park, when the Christmas Ships sail past it’s a truly spectacular sight. Many locations will have a bonfire going, which are noted below. Bundle up the kiddos, grab a thermos of hot cocoa and go! Times listed below detail when the parade will stop and broadcast choir performances over their state-of-the-art sound system. The full schedule includes sailing departure times, private events and bonfire details.

Related: Where to Find the Best U-Cut Tree Farms near Seattle

Christmas Ship Sailing Schedule

Seattle Christmas Ship Festival

Friday, November 25:  Pier 55 (Opening Night/First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Don Armeni Park 

Friday, November. 25:  Pier 55 (Opening Night/Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:35 p.m. Elliott Bay Marina 

Saturday, November 26: Pier 55 (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
2:35 p.m. Olympic Sculpture Park
Sailing includes cookies with Santa

Saturday, November 26: Pier 55 (Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Salty's on Alki Beach

Saturday, November 26: Pier 55 (Third Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:35 p.m. Alik Beach Park (bonfire)

Sunday, November 27:  Shilshole Bay Marina (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Carkeek Beach Park (bonfire)

Sunday, November 27:  Shilshole Bay Marina (Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:35 p.m. Golden Gardens Park (bonfire)

Related: The Best Holiday Light Displays in the City

Christmas Ship Festival Seattle

Friday, December 2: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing)
Choir: Master Chorus Eastside
5:35 p.m. Ferdinand State Park (bonfire)

Friday, December 2: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing)
Choir: Master Chorus Eastside
8:10 p.m. Gene Coulon Memorial Park (bonfire)

Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing)
Choir: PrimeTime Quartet
2:35 p.m. Pritchard Island Beach (bonfire)

Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing)
Choir: PrimeTime Quartet
5:35 p.m. Seward Park (bonfire)
Sailing includes cookies with Santa

Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Third Sailing)
Choir: PrimeTime Quartet
8:40 p.m. Stan Sayers Memorial Park (bonfire)

Sunday, December 4: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing)
Choir: Peninsula Community Chorus
5:35 p.m. Mercer Shore Club (private)

Sunday, December 4: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing)
Choir: Peninsula Community Chorus
8:35 p.m. Mt. Baker Beach (bonfire)

Related: Ho, Ho, Ho! Your Guide to Santa Photos in Seattle

Christmas Ship Festival Seattle

Friday, December 9: Lake Union Park (First Sailing)
Choir: PrimeTime Quartet
5:35 p.m. ASUW Shell House (bonfire)

Friday, December 9: Lake Union Park (Second Sailing/Parade of Boats)
Choir: PrimeTime Quartet
8:20 p.m. Fremont Cut (rolling show/bonfire)

Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders
2:10 p.m. Marina Park (1st performance/bonfire)
2:50 p.m. Magnuson Park (2nd performance/bonfire)
Sailing includes cookies with Santa

Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing)
Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders
5:35 p.m. Juanita Beach Park (bonfire)

Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (Third Sailing)
Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders
5:35 p.m. Seattle Tennis Club (private)

Sunday, December 11: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Laurelhurst Beach Club (private)

Sunday, December 11: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:35 p.m. Houghton Beach

Friday, December 16: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing)
Choir: Master Chorus Eastside
5:35 p.m. Madrona Park (bonfire)

Friday, December 16: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing)
Choir: Master Chorus Eastside
8:35 p.m. Denny Blaine Park (bonfire)

Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing)
Choir: Vocal Vintage
2:35 p.m. Waverly Beach Park
Sailing includes cookies with Santa

Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing)
Choir: Vocal Vintage
5:35 p.m. Madison Park (bonfire)

Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (Third Sailing)
Choir: Vocal Vintage
8:40 p.m. Meydenbauer Bay Park

Sunday, December 18: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing)
Choir: Touchstone Quartet
5:35 p.m. Windermere Park (private)

Sunday, December 18: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing)
Choir: Touchstone Quartet
8:40 p.m. Luther Burbank Park

Monday, December 19: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: Bellevue Youth Choir
5:35 p.m. OO Denny Park (bonfire)

Monday, December 19: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing)
Choir: Master Chorus Eastside
8:40 p.m. Log Boom Park 

Tuesday, December 20: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:40 p.m. Lake Forest Park Civic Club (private)

Wednesday, December 21: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: Holy Names Vocal Ensemble
5:35 p.m. Carillon Point (bonfire)

Wednesday, December 21: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:40 p.m. Sheridan Beach Club (private)

Thursday, December 22: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Medina Beach Park

Thursday, December 22: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:35 p.m. Yarrow Point (bonfire)

Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (First Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
2:40 p.m. The Ballard Locks (bonfire)
Sailing includes cookies with Santa

Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (Second Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
5:35 p.m. Ivar's Salmon House

Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (Third Sailing)
Choir: The Dickens Carolers
8:30 p.m. Seattle Yacht Club (1st performance/private)
9:10 p.m. Gas Works Park (2nd performance/bonfire)

 

Good to Know: Argosy Cruises donates a portion of all ticket sales to The Seattle Times’ Fund for Those in Need, an annual program that raises money for several charitable organizations in the Puget Sound area.

Online: argosycruises.com

All photos courtesy Argosy Cruises

There are so many great things about school. Kids make friends and learn all kinds of cool stuff, and you get to take care of business without having to worry about if they’re spending too much time online. If there’s one downside, it’s probably homework, and while the verdict is still out on how much good it really does, it’s probably going to make its way home at some point during the year. That’s why it’s important to dedicate somewhere to school and learning at home to help kids stay focused. These inspiring ideas go from grand loft bed-desk combinations to simple, small-space work station inspirations, and we think you’ll find one that’s just right for you.

Moving Work Station

What started as a creative way to make a work station for kids during the pandemic holds up just as well for after-school work. Simply set them up in their spot of choice and roll their supplies over to them. 

Lofted Look

Crate and Kids loft bed with space for a work station
Crate and Kids

If your kid’s room doesn’t seem to have space for a desk, Crate and Kids has a cool solution with their Kids Uptown Loft Bed Desk that can be attached to the interior or exterior rail of their Uptown Loft Bed for a cozy study cove (as can a matching shelf for book overflow). A Kathleen Wills design, this look is clean and contemporary, while wall space can shine with personal touches like artwork, maps, or memo boards to spur on study sessions. 

Ergonomic Ease

IKEA

IKEA’s FLISAT collection is designed for kids ages three all the way up to 12, so these pieces are meant to be versatile and customizable. They are also made of pine for a non-toxic study station. The legs on this FLISAT desk adjust to one of three heights to accommodate growing learners, while the top tilts for a fully ergonomic fit. It also conveniently holds a roll of drawing paper for artistic study breaks. If you want to round out the room with storage bins (on wheels!), a sweet book display, or a dollhouse-shaped wall shelf for books and other supplies, explore the entire collection.

Short and Sweet

Pottery Barn Kids Catalina Storage Desk
Pottery Barn Kids

Pottery Barn Kids’ Catalina Collection is a best-selling desk for good reason. The Catalina Storage Desk comes with three different hutch options, one of which comes with an outlet for easy charging capabilities. The oversized nob on the larger drawers also makes it easy for little hands to fully own and operate this space.

Make Space in the Kitchen Cabinet

Mullet Cabinet

Have you tried setting up study stations in their rooms, but the homework still ends up at the kitchen counter? Your kids, especially during early schooling, may just work better in a space where you can help them stay on task. So go with it and designate cabinet space for school and craft supplies. This design from Mullet Cabinet makes organization and storage a breeze, all in a separate section of the island so parents can still prep dinner and are present for any questions that might come up. Because it's a shared space, kids can also be responsible for setting up and cleaning up—and won’t waste any time hunting down that calculator.

Related: PSA: You Don’t Have to Manage Your Kid’s Homework Assignments

Work Station with a View

Design Improvised

You can get creative with the spot you dedicate for homework. We love how Design Improvised set up this station by a window (it’s important to take those mental pauses to gaze and regroup). With a portable cart that’s labeled and well-stocked with everything little learners would need, a chalkboard calendar for keeping easy track of assignments, and a desk to call their own, they also have everything they need to get to work. 

A Crafty Corner

a crafty work station for kids
The Vintage Glitter House

We love this genius setup from The Vintage Glitter House—a painted pegboard offers a fun pop of color as well as lots of space to hang supplies and decorations. That way, your kiddo's pencils, paper, and craft supplies will all be in one spot. 

Extra Book Nook

Good in the Simple Book Nook
Good Simple

This book set up from Good + Simple will help encourage reluctant readers and is an awesome addition to any study or work station. With sections for "currently reading" and "to read," it'll keep things organized while getting them excited about their next book. 

(Closet) Office Space

Closet Work Station from Look Linger Lover
Look Linger Love

An extra closet becomes a fun "office" space for the kids over at Look Linger Love. Clear plastic bins keep supplies organized and in view, and any mess is easy to conceal by shutting the door. Tucked in a corner of the playroom, you can take a closer look and tour the rest of the adorable space here.

 

A Small Station

The House of Smiths

Any room in your abode can be the perfect study space with this portable homework station. Head over to The House of Smiths for the how-to.

Related: Turns Out Helping Elementary Kids with Homework Isn’t Helping Them at All, Study Finds

Play School

school room from Playful Learnings
Playful Learning

Old-fashioned one-room schoolhouses served as inspiration for this adorable study space. Take a tour over at Playful Learning.

Hideaway Work Station

Fold-up work station for kids
Organized Mom

To help create a clutter-free zone in her daughter's room, the clever mom over at Organized Mom decided to mask the mess. With built-in shelving and a fold-up base, this DIY desk easily folds up when not in use.

 

 

Homework Isle

This combination of study space and craft area is perfect for group projects. The custom-designed craft/work island by Ellen Grasso & Sons features convenient storage space for each seat; supplies can be neatly stored until needed.

 

 

 

Hey Mamas (and of course Papas) out there!

Let’s talk about crafting with your kiddos.

I know, as parents, we always like non-screen activities for our kids. And one of the best ways to do that is to help them with simple arts and crafts!

However, you may be thinking, “UGH. What a mess it will make.” Or, “I’m sure they’ll fight with each other while sitting at the table together.” Or “I wonder if I have all the supplies I need?” And, “How can I help all of them at once?”

And if you are thinking these things, let me tell ya, I’m right there with you!

However, there are a few simple ways to make crafting with your kiddos a bit easier, and a more calm, enjoyable experience.

1. Plan the Craft Ahead of Time

So, if you’re like me, I’m not a big planner by any stretch of the imagination. I watch in envy as organized people get things done calmly and perfectly.

However, I do try to hone these organizational skills at least a little. One way you can do this with crafts for kids is to plan ahead. And by this, I mean, pick maybe 2 or 3 crafts to do with your kids for the week. Pinterest is a great place to research easy crafts.

Then look at the supply list which is usually provided in the instructions, and make sure you have all the materials you need. And if you don’t just add them to your supermarket list for when you go out next time. Or order from Amazon! Hey, even easier, head to your neighbor’s house and see if they have some supplies to share.

Just be sure to have all your supplies handy and ready to make your crafts for the week.

2. Set Up Your Craft Area

Next, it’s time to set up your craft area. You could choose a space on your countertop, dining room table or some people even have rooms dedicated for crafts.

Just clear off the area you are going to use, mine is usually the dining room table. Stuff somehow, every day, every minute, every hour, gets accumulated on there. So the first thing I do is to clear off the stuff that’s somehow piled up on there. Must be gremlins or something.

Then, once you have a clear surface to work on, set up a designated station for each of your kids. Place all the supplies out that they will be using, in the order that they will most likely be using them in. This is so they have their own station with supplies to use, and they’re not fighting over each other’s stuff. I tell mine if a dirty, stinky old sock was on the ground and one wanted it, then the other ones would insist on having it too! ;)

So set up those nice, neat craft stations—just don’t expect them to stay neat for long.

3. Enlist a Craft Helper

Ok, so it really is nice to have another adult on hand to help, especially if you have multiple, preschool-age children. So if grandma is coming to visit maybe plan the craft for that day.

Or, if it’s a more in-depth activity, maybe plan it on a weekend when your partner may be there to help out.

However, if there are no other adults available, I have my older children help a younger one. They may not be thrilled but it will be a good experience for them, teaches them about helping others, am I right?

Also sometimes if I explain the craft or experiment before starting, then the older kids can complete it independently. This allows me the freedom to help the younger ones. And don’t worry, once they get into a “craft routine” the process will go much more smoothly!

4. Expect a Mess

Ok, parents, so this is where we lower our expectations. Those beautifully staged photos of kids doing crafts, laughing merrily, clean and well-dressed, with their mom standing over them smiling happily and calmly helping? Well, let’s face it, that’s (usually) not the way it works.

Mine are usually completely covered with paint or glue, the table is also strewn with the same sorts of materials. So make sure if it’s a messy project, to put some newspaper or plastic table cloth down to protect your surface. Make sure they are dressed in old play clothes too.

An easy-to-clean rug or hardwood or tile floor under your workstation helps too because some of the craft and activity supplies are bound to sneak their way to the edge of the table and fall onto the floor.

Remember, it’s easy to be annoyed by messes but it really doesn’t take all that long to clean up. Don’t forget to get the kids involved in the clean-up process as well!

Crafting with Kids

Have I convinced you to check Pinterest for craft ideas, gather your kids up and get your crafting supplies out yet?

I certainly hope so!

And remember it’s ok to lose your mind sometimes…just as long as you find it again. ;)

But, in all seriousness, I hope these steps will help make the crafting and activity process a little easier for both you and your little ones

Have fun, and as I’m sure you’ve heard before…time goes by fast and they’re only little for such a short amount of time. So make the most of it!

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Hey there! I'm a wife, mom, homebody and lover of all things home and family. I'm also the author of the blog Dappled Skies and Diys. Over on the blog I share simple DIY projects, kids' crafts and activities, and gardening tips along with a few mom-life stories for fun!

This colorful holiday is all about excess. But while we love all the buttery, sugary, deep-fried goodness that this epic celebration is known for, we aren’t huge fans of all the cheap, wasteful junk that passes as decorations this time of year. So we committed to making a Mardi Gras mask from things we already had around the house. From old costume jewelry, we haven’t worn in years to craft paints on the verge of drying up to a handful of colorful feathers, we pulled together a magical mask without making more waste. Party on!

 

What You'll Need

1. Creativity: All these materials are optional, and we recommend just looking through what's in your recycling bin, craft area and jewelry box for any items that will work. We used the following.

2. A sheet of yellow foam paper for the mask base. We were out of yellow paint, so this was the solution! Before we stumbled on this at the bottom of the craft box, we had sliced a rectangle of cardboard off the box that held the garbage bags.

3. Paint, markers or glitter glue. Traditional Mardi Gras colors are yellow, green and purple, but we promise, any colorful outfit will be welcome on Mardi Gras.

5. Feathers and glue.

6. 3-4 rubber bands connected into a daisy chain.

7. An old beaded necklace that we deconstructed.

Other suggestions: Colorful cereal, macaroni or other pasta, beans, glitter, googley eyes, sequins or gems. 

 

What to Do

1. Cut a mask shape out of your base. Leave a little extra space up top to hold plenty of feathers or other decorations.

2. Draw a simple diamond pattern. If you have paint, outline a simple diamond pattern (a traditional Mardi Gras motif) and have your child paint it in.

3. Decorate! Now that you have a simple, Mardi Gras-themed based, just go nuts! We used two layers of feathers for the top, then decorated with beads.

4. Use a hole punch or scissors to make two holes for the rubber band.

5. Don your mask and DANCE!

 

–Erin Feher

All images courtesy of the author

Feature image: Izzy Park via Unsplash

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There’s nothing like a new indoor spot just for kids. Lucky for families in the Dallas area, a brand-new interactive toy store has arrived, fresh from New York City, and it should be on your must-do list this winter. Welcome to CAMP, where kids can touch, taste, and play to their heart’s content. This unique experience has something for everyone, even parents (hello, cafe drinks!), so get ready to head to CAMP for an unforgettable day of fun. 

What It Is

CAMP is an interactive toy store that fuses rotating hands-on experiences (think mermaid walls, slides and musical bridges) with a toy store that has everything from unique toys you can’t find anywhere else to books, candy, collectibles and even some mainstream licensed products. The coolest part is that every few months, behind the secret door, the exhibits change, so there’s a good chance the whole space will look totally different with each visit. 

Why We Love It

Besides the interactive experiences, there are toys everywhere, and kids are encouraged to play, run and basically try out stuff while they’re in the exhibit hall. There’s also a craft area, and there are different projects every day (there’s an extra fee to participate) that run the gamut from holiday-themed fun to classic things like DIY unicorn nightlights. There’s also a cafe with coffee, ice cream from New York legendary creamery Ample Hills, plus, kids get a token upon arrival, which is good for one snack from the Kroger-sponsored snack center. 

Where It Is

Located in The Hill shopping center on Walnut Hill Lane, the impressive space is accessible from the North Central Expressway. 

9830 North Central Expressway
Dallas, TX 75231
(214) 612-0451

Online: camp.com/locations/4-dallas

—Copy and images by Gabby Cullen

 

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