Saying thank you to a mail carrier is an easy and thoughtful way to share the holiday spirit with others

Through snow and rain, heat, and gloom of night, your local mail carriers deliver your letters and packages directly to your door (or at least your nearest mailbox). And, during the season of goodwill and cheer, they deserve major props. From mail carrier thank you cards to gifts for mail carriers, here are six ways to thank your mail carrier. The best part? All of these are easy for kids and fun, too (think baking cookies!).

Write a letter!

christmas shipping deadlines for the USPS
USPS

Even if you don't know your mail person by name, you can still address them in a general way, such as  "Our Favorite Mailman" or "Our Faithful Carrier." A simple note that says how much you appreciate the hard work they do (extra cute if your kids can write it out) will go a long way in making your postal worker feel special. Put it in an envelope and use stickers instead of stamps. (After all, they love mail, right?) You can also nab this free, downloadable template if you need a little help!

Make a Thank You Card

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As always, a thank you card is a lovely gesture. Let the kids draw a little picture or get creative or use a printable like this one to make a little note to attach to the flag of your mailbox. If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card for somewhere like Amazon or a nearby coffee shop in the envelope. Be sure and do something OBVIOUS to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail.

Include a Gift Card

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If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card to somewhere like Target or a nearby coffee shop with the letter or the card.  Be sure and do something obvious to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail. Mail carriers are not legally allowed to accept single gifts valued at over $20 so keep that in mind. 

Related: 2022 Christmas Shipping Deadlines for USPS, FedEx, UPS & More

Leave a Thoughtful Gift

wondering how to thank your mail carrier? Leave a gift in the mailbox
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A thoughtful gift (again, under $20) is another simple way to let them know you're thinking of them. Consider things like warm gloves, an insulated mug, cozy socks, or a new water bottle

Bake Something Special

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Leave cookies in the box or on the doorstep with a clearly marked sign. Be sure to seal them in something, even a ziplock or paper bag decorated with stickers works, and attach a note that says thanks! It's a good idea to list the ingredients in case of allergies or food sensitivities.

Say It Out Loud

this is how to thank your mail carrier
iStock

Shout it out! If you're home when the mail comes, be sure to say, "Thank you!" Get the kids in the habit of saying it, too. You can always throw open a window and shout it out. A little gesture of kindness and gratitude like this can go a long way on a long day. 

 

We’ve rounded up sweet Halloween crafts for kids guaranteed to give your little goblins thrills, not chills

Are frightening zombies, spooky spirits, and menacing mummies a little much for your little ones?  We’ve got 18 Halloween crafts for kids that are way sweeter than they are scary (just like these Halloween jokes). You’ll find smiling jack-o’-lanterns and googly-eyed bats that’ll leave you and your crafty little pumpkins cackling with glee. Go ahead and make a night of it with easy Halloween treats, kid-friendly ghost stories, and Halloween games (including minute to win it games)!

1. Halloween Castle Craft for Kids

This one is more of a time-consuming project, but what an exciting one! This could be a fun activity for the family or a big Halloween craft for kids, but either way, it’ll be amazing.

2. Painting Pumpkins with Apples

You can’t go wrong with these little pumpkin paintings! Your kiddos will have fun using something different (halved apples!) to paint with.

3. Toilet Paper Roll Mummy

This is a classic mummy craft that your kids will enjoy making! Switch it up by adding whatever type of eyes or string you’d like.

4. Candy Corn Nature Craft

Get out into nature before it’s too chilly and find some leaves to make this fun Halloween craft for kids. They will have a blast searching for their leaves outside and cutting and gluing their candy corn pieces. Use petals for the white section if you have some around.

Related: Cackle Like a Witch at These Printable Halloween Jokes

5. Bunny Pumpkin

This bunny pumpkin couldn’t be scary, but it is super adorable! This project might be good for young kids, but this is also a good craft to accessorize. Add eyelashes, a hat, or anything you’d like to make your bunny unique.

6. Ghost Jar Halloween Craft for Kids

These ghost jars will make an adorable glowing decoration for Halloween! Safety Tip: Use battery-operated votive candles to keep things safe. You can also use multi-colored string lights to make things more fun!

7. Painted Leaves

These painted leaves are super cute ways to let your kid be creative and it doesn’t require many materials! The best part? This Halloween craft for kids won’t consume too much of your time.

8. Ghost Painting Halloween Craft

Your kiddo will love trying out this ghost painting! They can paint any sort of accessories like hats, bows, or anything they’d like to give their ghost some personality.

Related: 27 Not Too Spooky Songs for Your Halloween Playlist

9. Macaron Pumpkins

Macaron Pumpkins are a cute Halloween craft for kids
Craft Box Girls

Nothing spooky here! This sweet pumpkin craft from Craft Box Girls transforms an ordinary craft gourd into a macaron with a little paint, glitter, felt, and glue. And let's be honest, it's a whole lot easier than making real macarons!

10. Batty Silhouette

a batty sillhoutte art project is an easy Halloween craft for kids
Mini Monets & Mommies

Explore the idea of silhouettes with this batty Halloween craft for kids. Your kid can create a vampire bat, using plain black construction paper. Fold the paper book-style, and draw half the bat starting at the center. Keeping the paper folded, cut the bat out. Unfold the paper to reveal the whole creature. Glue the silhouette to a painted paper sunset to complete the craft. Get the tutorial at Mini Monets and Mommies.

11. Crafty Bats

bat crafts are a fun Halloween craft for kids
Buggy & Buddy

These happy nocturnal creatures are the perfect Halloween decor for your bat cave. You might even have everything you need lying around the house, too! Fly over to the tutorial at Buggy and Buddy.

12. Not-So-Spooky Spiders

Paper plate spiders are a fun Halloween craft for kids
Living In Happy Place

Creepy crawlies don't need to be super scary. This paper plate spider has more crafty cuteness than venomous fright. Think of it as treat, and not a trick! Get the Halloween crafts instructions from Living In Happy Place.

Related: 23 Last-Minute Costumes You Can Totally Pull Off

13. Sugar Skull Skeleton Craft

Skeleton craft for Halloween
Gabby Cullen

This sweet skeleton is perfect for kids to display all the way through Dios de los Muertos! We love that there's a free printable template you can use and that kids can decorate however they see fit. Get the tutorial here

14. Handprint Spiders

Fun at Home with Kids

Let the kids lend a hand (or two) to create these adorable arachnids from Fun at Home with Kids. Make a new one every year to document growth!

15. Halloween Rock Magnets

Magnet rocks are a fun halloween craft for kids
This Heart of Mine

This rockin' craft from This Heart of Mine is perfect for hanging your little monsters' artwork on the fridge. 

16. Footprint Bunting

Mamma.Pappa.Bubba

Put your left (and right) foot in to create this adorable party decor from Mama.Papa.Bubba. From ghosts to cats, candy corn, and more, let the kids decorate each footprint as their favorite Halloween characters. 

Related: 12 Halloween Minute-to-Win-It Games For Kids

17. Glittery Jack-o-Lantern Mason Jars

Mason jar halloween craft for kids
Life is a Lullaby

We love how Life is a Lullaby transformed tiny mason jars into whimsical, shimmering jack-o-lanterns that double as candy holders and decor. The kids will love crafting their own toothy grins.  

18. Popsicle Stick Witch

a witch popsicle stick magnet is a fun Halloween craft for kids
This Girl's Life Blog

This googly-eyed witch from This Girl's Life Blog is wickedly cute. Part of a collection of magnets that includes a festive scarecrow and pumpkin, it's the perfect Halloween craft for the spooky season.

 

 

 

The tunnel is our Rube Goldberg favorite

Need some craft ideas that aren’t your usual? Raid the recycle bin, bust out any toilet paper rolls lying around, and get crafting! From Star Wars characters to bird feeders and even flying fish, the possibilities are endless when you’ve got a stash of toilet paper rolls on hand!

Animal Puzzles

If you had one of those flip puzzle books that allowed you to create animals with different tops, middles, and bottoms, then you’ll appreciate this adorable idea.

Cactus Toilet Paper Roll Craft

How adorable are these cacti?! These would be fun decorations for a kiddo’s room or party!

Sliced Toilet Paper Roll Design

Swipe through the images in this post to see the spray-painted final products of this toilet paper roll craft! This is one you could make as detailed or as simple as you’d like. You could also hand-paint it for some extra fun.

Toilet Paper Roll Snake

toilet paper roll crafts
The Clumsy Crafter

This adorable toilet paper roll craft will have kids creating their own snake out of multiple toilet paper rolls. After your kiddo is done and the paint is dry, it's playtime! Get the tutorial from The Clumsy Crafter

Birthday Crowns

toilet paper roll crafts
Creative Jewish Mom

What a cute idea for a birthday party favor! Kids can make their own crowns and wear them throughout the whole event. Get the tutorial over at Creative Jewish Mom

Bird Finder Binoculars

toilet paper roll crafts
Art Bar

Whether you're on an outdoor adventure or peeking at birdies from your window, these adorable Bird Finder Binoculars from Art Bar are perfect for exploring. All you need are some empty toilet paper rolls, string, and colorful masking tape to make your own.

 

Related: 33 Easy & Fun Paper Crafts for Kids

Star Wars Characters

toilet paper roll crafts
Hello, Wonderful

The gang's all here! This cast of Star Wars characters from Hello, Wonderful is perfect for your young Jedis. Great for an entire afternoon, these mini crafts use up that collection of TP rolls you've been collecting.

Flying Carp

toilet paper roll crafts
Squirrelly Minds

Everyone's day can use a little more color, especially in the form of whimsical and cheery flying carp from Squirrelly Minds! With basic supplies like tissue paper and double-sided tape, your littles will be running around with a few flying fish in no time.

Collage Animal Marionettes

toilet paper roll crafts
Art Bar

How adorable are these Collage Animal Marionettes from Art Bar?! Make your own with simple supplies, including bright beads and tissue paper.

Happy Birthday Sign

toilet paper roll crafts
Super Make It

If you have a stack of old TP rolls lying around, why not turn them into a useful sign like this one? Color the tubes, do some specific cutting and you have a truly unique way to say "Happy birthday!" Get all the details over Super Make It.

Super Hero Cuffs

toilet paper roll crafts
Reading Confetti

You don't need special powers to make these awesome wristlets with your little hero. After painting the tubes, let your kids decorate them with stars, flowers, lightning bolts, or anything that they think gives them special powers. Find out how to make the slits for little arms just right over at Reading Confetti.

Slinky Snake

toilet paper roll crafts
Eighteen 25

Practice dexterity and scissor cutting by whipping up one of these googly-eyed reptiles. Start by painting a toilet paper roll and letting it dry. Next, have your little one use safety scissors to snip a spiral shape into the roll. Decorate the bouncy creature with stripes or dots and a pair of inquisitive eyes. The gals over at Eighteen 25 have the low-down on how to get this toilet paper roll craft just right.

 

Related: 27 Adorable Toddler Crafts You Can Pull Out Anytime

Shape Stamps

toilet paper roll crafts
Mama Papa Bubba

Mama Jen of Mama Papa Bubba wows again! This toilet paper roll craft is the ultimate win-win. While the bambino brushes up on shapes and colors, you get to upcycle all of those saved rolls. On a rainy day, use the shapes to make cards or just let your kiddo go stamp crazy on the poster board.

Confetti Poppers

party poppers are one of the best New Year's Eve party ideas
Gabby Cullen

Speaking of parties... turn your kid's next one into the shindig of the year with these confetti poppers crafted out of a tied balloon wrapped and taped over a toilet tissue roll. Pour confetti into the open end, gently pull the end of the balloon... and POP! Check out our tutorial here. 

Bird Feeder

toilet paper roll crafts
Fireflies and Mud Pies

Keep an eye on your feathered friends by whipping up this easy feeder. All you have to do is spread the shortening onto a toilet paper roll and then roll the tube into bird seeds. The seeds will stick to the roll, and you can hang it up porch-side or stick it on a branch. Fireflies and Mud Pies has the details for this awesome toilet paper roll craft.

Cardboard Village

When you need to keep it simple, a mini village made from toilet paper rolls will do the trick. Pull out the markers, ribbon, paper, and whatever else the kids want to use, and get crafting!

Egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny, craft stations, and even a few drag queens might make their appearance

It’s that time of year again to grab your baskets and crew and head on out for some fabulous family Easter fun. From Brunch cruises and parades, to egg hunts for days, you’ll find plenty to do in our roundup of family-friendly Easter activities all around the Bay Area. So grab your bunnies and hop on over to one of these jumping local events.

San Francisco Easter Events

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St. Mark's Lutheran Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Bring a basket and have your little bunnies hop on over and join St. Mark's annual Easter Egg Hunt! Apr. 1 Event details

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Meet the Easter bunny at Neiman Marcus and enjoy breakfast, photos, balloon art, and other surprises. Apr. 2 Event details

Castro Eggstravaganza Block Party
The first annual Castro Easter Eggstravaganza Block Party will feature photos with the Easter bunny, a petting zoo, drag queen story time, music, and entertainment. Apr. 8 Event details

Hornblower Easter Champagne Brunch Cruise
Hop on board a relaxing two-hour Easter brunch buffet. Enjoy entertainment, free-flowing champagne and mimosas, scenic SF Bay views, coloring sheets for the bunnies, a keepsake photo, and a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny! Apr. 9 Event details

East Bay Easter Events

Orange Empire Railway Museum

Spring-Styled Pontoon Boat Ride with Snacks - Castro Valley
Lake Chabot is a lovely spot for family-friendly boat trips and your two-hour rental includes a kid's Easter basket and a snack basket to enjoy as your family floats idyllically on the lake. Apr.1 - Apr. 30 Event details

Piedmont Bunny Blast Egg Hunt 
Bounce into Spring with the Piedmont Rec. Department, as they host their annual egg hunt for children 2-7 years old. Hunt for treasures and enjoy a morning full of festivities in the park. Apr. 1 Event details

Ride the Easter Egg Express - Sacramento
Celebrate Easter on an unforgettable train ride and visit the private river-side park and boarding station. Kids will decorate their own Easter Egg bag, play games, enjoy an Easter Egg hunt and other surprises! Relax with your family and friends at one of our picnic tables and enjoy the scenery. There's so much fun that your little bunny will be hopping with excitement. Sat. & Sun. starting April 1 Event details 

Easter Celebration at Jack London Square
This family-friendly event invites families to enjoy storytime, kid's crafts and contests. Apr. 1 Event details

Easter Celebration at Alameda Landing
Face painting, balloon art and photos with the Easter Bunny are all at the Landing for your family to take part in. Apr. 1 Event details

Family Day at the Park
Newark Community Center Park invites your family to join in on the Easter festivities with an egg hunt, face painting, egg dyeing, arts and crafts, games and more. Apr. 1 Event details

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10th Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt
Rudgear Park in Walnut Creek hosts an egg-citing egg hunt, face painting, and other arts and crafts. Apr. 8 Event details

Muffins with the Easter Bunny
Muffins, snacks, games, crafts, and of course the Easter bunny will all be at the Robert Livermore Community Center. Pre-purchase tickets; no tickets will be sold at the door. Apr. 8 Event details

Bunny Weekend
Bunny Weekend brings family-friendly games and activities, arts and crafts, ‘hopscotch’ activities, and live performances all to Fairyland. Apr. 8 & 9 Event details 

Easter Sunday on the Farm
Stop by Ardenwood Farm to delve into the magic of springtime! Pet the hens and bunnies, and look for the giant egg. Apr. 9 Event details

29th Annual Eggster Egghunt and Learning Festival
Start off at the start booth and pick up your egg hunt tickets (two per child). Enjoy age-appropriate, designated hunt areas, family-friendly learning activities, music, live performances, raffles, and more. Apr. 15 Event details

Best Easter Events on the Peninsula

Kim Stoegbauer

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Start the day with a continental breakfast and pictures with the Easter Bunny before playing your heart out at Dave & Buster's. Two packages are available and kids 2 and under are free. Apr. 1 Event details

Gamble Garden's Easter Egg Hunt
Join this festive tradition as Gamble Garden becomes a treasure of hidden Easter eggs. Children will enjoy a supervised petting zoo, arts and crafts, treats, light refreshments, Easter Bunny photos, and an Easter Egg Hunt in the garden. Three scheduled hunts start at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Apr. 2 Event details

Half Moon Bay Easter Egg Hunt
Bring your bunnies out for a morning of treats, fun, and a visit with the Easter bunny at Lemos Farm. There will be four hunt sections, for ages 1-10. The fun kicks off at 10:45 a.m., bring your own basket. Saturday & Sunday, Apr. 8 & 9  Event details

Egg Hunt Adventure Hunt
Bring a basket to Belmont and help the Easter bunny find all 13,000 eggs! Apr. 8 Event details

Easter Bunny by Helicopter
Did you know that the Easter bunny can fly? At Hiller Aviation Museum, kids can see a flying bunny, run an obstacle course, and jump in a bouncy house. Apr. 8 Event details

Bunny Bound Spring Event
Hop on over to our Bunny Stop at the Los Altos Community Center for carnival games, an egg hunt for kids ages 1-10, and a performance by the popular Andy Z.  Apr. 8 Event details

45th Annual City of San Mateo Eggstravaganza 
Start your day with a pancake breakfast (9-11 a.m.), then get going on your egg hunt. Kids ages 1-3 can visit Peter Rabbit’s Playground, an area set up just for them while the 4- to 9-year-old group can go for the Big Egg Hunt. There are multiple hunts throughout the day, plus a parade at 10:30 a.m., photos with the Easter Bunny, and live entertainment including a magician. Apr. 8  Event details 

Easter Events in the South Bay

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Easter at Venture Church
Families are invited to join for inflatable fun, a petting zoo, food, a toddler zone, and an egg hunt for kids. Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Apr. 1 Event details

Big Bunny Scramble
Milpitas Community Center hosts an egg hunt, crafts, coloring contest, egg decorating and more in their Spring celebration. Apr. 1 Event details

Easter On The Farm & Egg Hunt
When Easter is celebrated on a farm, in addition to egg hunts, enjoy food trucks, arts and crafts, games, and more! Don't miss this Easter on the Farm in Watsonville event! Apr. 8 Event details

Helicopter Easter Egg Drop
Just when you thought an Easter event couldn't possibly be more fun, VIVE Morgan Hill drops one (or many) on you. Have the kids bring a basket and enjoy the thrill of rushing for eggs falling from the sky! Apr. 8 Event details

Egg Hunt & Spring Flowers
Let kids burn off some steam with an egg hunt (included in admission) and then check out the Fantastical Flowers Spring Celebration. Apr. 9 Event details

All Aboard the Easter Eggspress
The Easter Bunny makes a stop at Roaring Camp. After riding either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train, your kids will have a blast participating in Easter activities in Town. April 8 & 9 Event details 

Easter Egg Hunt & Concert
Enjoy a performance by the Silicon Valley Conservatory of Music followed by an Easter egg hunt with snacks, festivities, and more! Apr. 9 Event details

Best Easter Events in Marin & Beyond 

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Annual Sausalito Easter Parade and Egg Hunt
The parade is led by none other than the Easter Bunny, starting at Johnsons Street Fire Station, on the corner of Johnson and Caledonia. Hop on down to Dunphy Park for an Easter Egg Hunt, enjoy live music and the sights of many bright, crazy bonnets–or don your own and enter the Easter Bonnet Contest. Apr. 8 Event details

San Anselmo Spring Egg Hunt and Flashlight Hunt
Come be a part of this annual tradition, where children 7 and younger can run loose at Memorial Park in search of treats, eggs, and the coveted golden eggs. The 8 and older bunch can test their night vision at the exciting flashlight hunt, the Friday before Easter. Wear good running shoes, and bring your own basket and flashlight. Apr. 8 Event details

Easter at the Mart
Come for an egg hunt, decorate an Easter basket, take a picture with the Easter Bunny, and meet some real chicks and bunnies. Festivities start at 9 a.m.  Apr 8 Event details

Egg Hunt at Marinwood 
The annual Las Gallinas Lions Club Egg Hunt will feature a free egg hunt for the kiddos and food for purchase. Apr. 8 Event details

Additional reporting by Christine Lai, Nella DuBon-Koch & Kate Loweth

Stuffed or simple, here are the best doughnuts in LA worth your time, money and their caloric intake

No matter how you spell it (donut or doughnut?) LA is a doughnut town thanks to glaze-blazers like Ted Ngoy aka: The Donut King who helped proliferate doughnut shops across SoCal. And in true LA-style, the following doughnut shops have put their own twist on the not-just-for-breakfast treat. Here’s our list for the best doughnuts in Los Angeles that are worth making an extra special trip to another part of town—traffic (and calories) be damned.

The Best Doughnuts in LA (in No Particular Order)

1. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Consistently recognized as having the best doughnuts in LA, Sidecar has a cult-like following thanks to their creative, small batch flavors that showcases seasonal ingredients. Their Maple Bacon is probably their most well-known but we think the Saigon Cinnamon Crumb and the Dulce de Leche Churro is the cat’s meow. PS: Have you checked out their Culver City location yet?

Good to Know: The Malasada is a stuffed doughnut fill with a custom flavor, rolled in cardamom sugar and is only available on Mon. so plan your trip accordingly.

Various Locations
Online: sidecardoughnuts.com

RELATED: 30 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Santa Monica

2. Fantastic Donuts & Croissants

The only reason to even hesitate ever taking a bite of these delightful doughnuts is that they are just so ridiculously adorable—doughnuts decorated to look like things that aren’t doughnuts get us every time. While they are known for their rotund pigs and cows, they’ve pulled together “sushi” boxes, “Among Us” characters, a box of “fruit” and more. For a specialty box, email your order at least 24-48 hours in advance.

1101 S Vermont Ave.
Koreatown
Online: fantasticdonutla.wix.com

3. Colorado Donuts

Sesame Street fans will go ga-ga for the awesome specialty donuts decorated to look like Elmo and Cookie Monster. Cute and cuddly is not the only form Colorado’s Donuts come in though. They also offer creative concoctions that seem like they came straight from a five-year old’s mind, like cronuts crammed with Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, because why choose one flavor when you can have both?

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the breakfast cereal-topped donuts, like Fruity Pebbles or their special drops (check their Instagram) for specialities like the Birthday Cookie Surprise doughnut.

1578 W Colorado Blvd.
Eagle Rock
Online: instagram.com/coloradodonuts

4. Blue Star

This Portland transplant is now a best-in-LA doughnut staple. These artisanal, crafted doughnuts are simple compared to the dessert explosions of their competitors but that’s what makes them so appealing for young palates. Brioche-style, they are light as air so you won’t be left with that rock-in-the-pit-of-your-belly feeling after eating them.

Our favorites include: Sugar and Spice, Chocolate Buttermilk, Lemon Poppyseed and of course, Chocolate Almond Ganache (pictured).

Various Locations
Online: bluestardonuts.com

5. B Sweet Dessert Bar

Think you can’t improve on the doughnut? What about stuffing one with delicious ice cream? Donut ice cream sandwiches are the sweet bomb and B Sweet Dessert Bar is one of the originators of this tasty trend. The Hot Pressed Halo, as it’s called, features ice cream of your choice, heat-sealed inside of a glazed doughnut. We petty convinced the ‘B’ in B Sweet stands for Brilliant.

Various Locations
Online: mybsweet.com

6. Donut Friend

While their customizable doughnuts are still on pause due to COVID, you can still choose a buffet-worth of doughnuts from their signature compilations, like Strawberrylab and Angry Samoa. Head over to York Park playground after so you can burn off all of that sugar-laden energy or if you’re around ROW DTLA on a Sun., swing by SmorgasburgLA for a visit with your best Donut Friend.

Good to Know: Not only are all of their doughnuts vegan, you can order a giant doughnut that is 7-8″ in diameter.

Various Locations
Online: donutfriend.com

7. Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts

Located in The Original Farmer’s Market, these made-fresh daily doughnuts have legions of fans willing to line and wait (yep, they’re that good!). Nothing beats the classic glazed but the Maple Bacon Bar gets two thumbs up as well. Kids will love the dinosaur and Hello Kitty shapes.

Good to Know: It’s cash only.

6333 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles
Online: bobsdonutsla.com

8. Birdies LA

Their signature doughnut flavors include Horchata Twist with Dulce de Leche, Candied Bacon Maple and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, but they also rotate and feature all kinds of specialty glazes and toppings to wow your donut connoisseurs. YUM. Oh, and did we mention they also serve fried chicken?

Various Locations
Online: birdiesla.com

9. Blinkie’s Donut Emporium

Blinkie’s has been a Woodland Hills doughnut staple (and Kardashian go-to) for good reason. Though they offer a wide variety of doughnut flavors the simple, glazed black and whites are hands-down the best. Despite being large in size and taste, these babies are light as air.

4884 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Woodland Hills
Online: blinkiesdonuts.com

10. RING Baked Tofu Donuts

These GMO and gluten-free doughnuts are baked (not fried) and may not look as razzle-dazzle as some of the others on our list, but their simple, cake-like flavor won our kid tester’s shinning approval. They offer straight-forward flavors, like double chocolate, banana bread and red velvet.

‪6800 Owensmouth Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: ringdonuts.com

11. Randy’s Donuts

Despite all the new pop-ups, LA is still filled with dozens of old-school doughnut shops that are well-worth a visit, and the most iconic by far is Randy’s. A glimpse of the giant doughnut sitting on top of the roof alone will excite your pint-sized doughnut lovers. If you hit the original location, there’s no real space to hang out here, so grab a dozen of the classics and head over to the grassy knoll near LAX to watch airplanes land. Best morning ever.

Various Locations
Online: randysdonuts.com

12. Voodoo Doughnut

The first LA location of this time-honored Portland doughnut tradition is a must-stop when you’re headed to the Universal CityWalk. The first thing your doughnut-loving tots are sure to notice is the bright pink color everywhere. That, and the gigantic voodoo doughnut that greets you out front. The only thing more exciting is the doughnut case inside. With flavors like Grape Ape, Mango Tango, the Voodoo Bubble, Bacon Maple Bar, The Homer, Triple Chocolate and Butterfinger, you will definitely fulfill everyone’s sugar fix.

100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City
Online: voodoodoughnut.com

Buy it here, $10

Buy it here, $10

Threshold™ Plastic Tumblers

new tumblers are Easter decorations at Target

Spruce up your table just in time for Easter with these lovely (and durable) plastic tumblers that come in blue or pink.

Buy them here, $4 each

Threshold™ Cloth Bunny Napkins

What goes better with your new tumblers than these sweet bunny napkins? All that’s left is to decide on your Easter brunch menu.

Buy them here, $5 each

Easter decorations at Target
How cute is this little guy? There are other birds in the collection, including an Easter Bunny bird, and a gardener bird. We love the whimsical vibe they’ll bring to Easter this year!

Buy it here, $5

Spritz™ Nesting Easter Rainbow

Spring means rainbows and this adorable nesting figurine will bring smiles to your home!

Buy it here, $10

Threshold™ Easter Flower Filler

If you don’t love to go all in on Easter decorations, then consider leaning into spring. These vibrant flowers will brighten up any table.
Buy them here, $12

See the entire new collection of Easter decorations at Target here.

All images courtesy of Target

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


Try these theme restaurants in Atlanta for an exciting dinner experience you may not expect

Dining with kids is an adventure. And one of the best ways to keep everyone happy and entertained when dining out is to hit up a out-of-the-box restaurant that practically guarantees a tabletop of happy plates (hint: here are some of our other favorite family restaurants tips). From brunch overlooking the world’s busiest airport to dinner inside a real train car—or perhaps pizza served by robots—we’ve got eight theme restaurants in Atlanta that are worth checking out. Find your favorite spots to make a memorable—in a good way—mealtime memory.

1. The S.O.S. Tiki Bar

This Victory Brands restaurant in Decatur is best to visit when the sun is down to catch "all the tiki glow." There are plenty of neon colors, tropical flowers, and bobbling hula dolls during the day, though, so you won't be disappointed.

Insider Tip: If they've been good and let you drink your cocktail out of a giant bird of paradise vase in peace, reward them with an order of Tempur-Oreos for dessert. They're deep-fried Oreos with Nutella or vegan chocolate sauce.

340 Church St.
Decatur
Online: sostiki.com

2. Selfie Museum

Glaze your Instagram with a visit to Atlanta’s weirdest museum that combines selfies (or perhaps family photos) with donuts. ‘Hole In The Wall’ is not a full-service restaurant, but you can nosh on delicious donuts and sip tasty drinks while snapping selfies at donut-themed selfie stations.

5471 Bells Ferry Rd., Ste. 300
Acworth, GA
Online: childcareselfiemuesum.com

Related: Rise & Shine! 9 Must-Try Breakfast Spots in the City

3. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

All lords and ladies, regardless of size or stature, are guaranteed to have a blast cheering on their favorite knights in this dinner theater arena experience in Lawrenceville. From jousting to gallantry, the horses, knights, queens, kings, and of course—all the kids—guaranteed a night to remember.

5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy.
Lawrenceville, GA
Online: medievaltimes.com

4. Trader Vic's

Nope, not Trader Joe's. This particular Trader takes diners to poy paradise, with Polynesian-inspired decor, cuisine, and on occasion, entertainment. It's the home of the "original" Mai-Tai, so definitely add that to your order. This particular location in the downtown Hilton has been in operation since 1976, and this tiki bar is definitely high on wow factor for kids and parents, alike.

255 Courtland St. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: tradervicsatl.com

5. Orient Express

Located on railroad tracks in an old train car, and featuring three different rooms for Chinese, Sushi, and Hibachi, this Vinings staple is loco for kids interested in locomotives. Featuring all the traditional dishes you'd expect, try the hibachi for a little dinnertime entertainment (that doesn't involve an iPad).

2921 Paces Ferry Rd.
Vinings, GA
Online: orientexpressatl.com

Related: Dining for Dollars: Where Kids Eat Free in Atlanta

6. Bone Garden Cantina

This Mexican restaurant with a menu inspired by authentic street food and decor inspired by the celebrations of Dia de los Muertos. Whatever you do, don't miss the banana empanadas—fried pastries with sweet bananas, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with whipped cream.

1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: bonegardencantina.com

7. 57th Fighter Group

Located at the end of the south runways of the Peachtree-Dekalb Airport, this long-time staple of Atlanta dining will wow your wee air aficionados in a major way. With both indoor and outdoor patio dining, no seat is a bad seat for getting an eyeful of passenger planes taking off and landing at the airport. Decorated in a WWII-era aviation theme, the restaurant even has vintage planes on the property.

3829 Clairmont Rd.
Chamblee, GA
Online: the57threstaurant.com

Related: Everybody Outside: 12 Spots for Patio Dining

 

8. Hard Rock Cafe

While they may be a little young to catch a show, your tiny dancers will love checking out the stage and vibe at lunch or early dinner at this downtown landmark. Filled with memorabilia, particularly of bands with roots in the South, the Hard Rock will satisfy their bellies with burgers and their heads with visions of becoming a rock star.

215 Peachtree St. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: hardrockcafe.com

All the Who’s down in Whoville couldn’t possibly come up with a more adorable holiday plant than Trader Joe’s Grump Tree.

Whether you’re feeling a little Grinchy or you’re short on space to decorate, these adorable little trees are the perfect accent to warm your home and your heart. The skinny evergreen Cyprus trees are wrapped in a red ribbon and topped with a single red ornament.

The trees are tiny now, but just like the Grinch’s heart they can easily triple in size if you plant and nurture them after the holiday season is over.

The Grump trees are now available at Trader Joe’s nationwide for $9.99 each.

 

 

The best Boston Christmas lights are turning on soon. You won’t want to miss these dazzling holiday lights

It may seem like you’ve barely finished your turkey dinner, but it’s definitely time to celebrate the winter holiday season with some serious wattage. Boston is full of epic holiday light displays (and tree lightings to go with them), most of which are going live soon. So grab your best scarf, put on those woolly hats and warm mittens, and head out to catch some of the best Boston Christmas lights in town, after heading out to get your Christmas tree, of course.

1. Boston Common Tree Lighting

The official holiday season is underway, and lighting the City of Boston's official Christmas tree and trees throughout Boston Common and the Public Garden, is one of the main events. Generations have enjoyed, and continue to treasure, Boston's tree lighting celebration. Twenty-five thousand people of all ages attend the event, which has grown to include a festive stage show with nationally known talent. The Lighting of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall follows the Boston Common Tree Lighting, two of the best places in the city to see holiday lights, Boston families. 

Date: Dec. 1, 2022
Event details

2. Copley Square Tree Lighting

This family-friendly event is sure to get you and the kids in a festive mood. There will be refreshments and giveaways, and a special line up of local talent to keep the crowd singing classic holiday hits until the lights turn on. Come for the lighting, return to enjoy the holiday lights Boston residents love all month long.

Date: Nov. 28, 2022
Event details

Related: Chop-Chop! 10 Christmas Tree Farms near Boston

3. ZooLights at Stone Zoo

Tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights make up this winter wonderland at Stone Zoo. Yukon Creek is where the Boston Christmas lights shine bright at this display. It's home to black bears, Canada lynx, reindeer, and arctic foxes. Add in this year's large-scale lantern displays and we know these holiday lights will make your winter's night bright. Grab tickets to this favorite display while you still can.

Insider Tip: Get over the mid-week hump when you visit ZooLights on a Wednesday, from November 30-December 21. That's when the kids can bump into Mrs. Claus. Psst...we hear she's pretty good at delivering holiday wishes to Santa.

Dates: Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 8, 2023
Event details

4. Night Lights 2022

Get into the winter spirit with Night Lights 2022 at Tower Hill Botanic Garden. It’s a celebration of light that includes thousands of lights, new experiences, and enchanting landscapes. Enjoy an outdoor walking experience through roughly 15 acres of formal gardens and surrounding woodlands, including illuminated plants, paths, sculptures, fountains, and a magical model train. The Boston Christmas lights scene is enhanced with fire pits for warming up, making s’mores, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa (or an adult beverage).

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 31, 2022
Event details

5. Magic of Lights

Pack the kids into the car and head to Gillette Stadium for a drive-thru display of lights that rivals no other. Magic of Lights is a dazzling display with a drive-through experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and some of your favorite characters of the season. Lit using the latest LED technology and digital animations, kids will squeal with delight as your car makes its way along the route. Get tickets online before driving down.

Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 31, 2022
Event details

6. Martin's Park Ship Lighting

This tree lighting will definitely be lit. Join Martin’s Park in celebrating the holiday season with their annual Ship Lighting. Your kids will love seeing Santa arriving by boat. Enjoy Martin’s Park with hot cocoa, caroling, and holiday fun of all kinds.

Dates: Nov. 26, 2022
Event details

7. Illuminations Tour

Drive to Sommerville with the aid of the Illuminations Tour Map to find the town's most festive houses. Decked in lights from porch to rooftop, these folks go out to create holiday light displays Boston folks return to see year after year. Holiday caroling in planned for December 15, and the map is expected to release on December 8.

Online: somervilleartscouncil.org

Related: Hit the Road! 11 Easy Fall Day Trip Destinations

a person warms themselves with a cup of hot cocoa while out to see Boston Christmas lights
Chris Ainsworth via Unsplash

8. Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge House & Garden

Winterlights is back with some of the best holiday lights Boston has to offer. And the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens is just one of three beautiful properties that will sparkle with thousands of shimmering, artfully designed Christmas lights. The Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate and Naumkeag are the other two festive spots to display this dazzling show. Bring the whole family for a magical and fun outdoor experience, with food, refreshments, and more.

Insider Tip: Tickets always sell out quickly for this event (in fact, some weekends are completely sold out now), so grab yours soon if this trip is on your winter wish list.

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

9. Annual Lighting of the Columbus Park Trellis

Take in the gorgeous views of the city when this trellis is lit with blue lights for the duration of the holiday season. The family will love the music, hot chocolate, and dazzling lights at this amazing event.

Date: Nov. 21, 2022
Event details

10. Winter Light Show at Crescent Farm

The Winter Light Show is an annual spectacular that features dozens of dazzling, larger-than-life holiday themed displays to delight the entire family as they drive through the gorgeous display. Bundle up the kids, pack your favorite holiday cookies, and pour creamy hot cocoa into the thermos; then sit back and listen to the holiday music on your car's stereo. The synced light performance will make your kids smile. The drive is one mile. Be sure to plan ahead as you'll need tickets for this one.

Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 31, 2022
Event details

Related: Welcome, Winter! 8 Outdoor Adventures to Take with Kids Now

Looking for good New Year’s party ideas? Ring in 2023 with a festive craft for kids that’s as easy as it is fun. Using basic art supplies (and leftover holiday trimmings), you can help your little party people pop it like it’s hot when it’s time for the 10…9…8…! Find out exactly what you’ll need to create confetti poppers for kids at home, and then plan your menu from our favorite easy appetizers

Supplies for confetti popper for kids

confetti poppers for kids

Paper Rolls (toilet or towel, whichever you have on hand)

Construction Paper and/or wrapping paper in festive colors

Balloons

Ribbon (regular and curling)

Markers

Scissors

Hole Punch (if you don’t have one handy, just cut up the paper)

Scotch Tape

Hot Glue or Elmer’s Glue

Jewels (optional)

Related: 16 Easy Ideas to Help You Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Home

Step One: Create Confetti

confetti poppers for kids

Using the hole punch (or scissors) create paper confetti using construction paper and leftover holiday wrapping paper in festive colors.

 

Step Two: Decorate the Popper

Using markers, have your handy helpers decorate their roll. Little doodlers can go festive with stars and fireworks, write fun New Year’s Eve-themed words, or even draw pictures. It's all about creativity!

Related: 22 Super-Easy Appetizers That Just Look Fancy

Step Three: Cut the Balloon

Tie a knot in the balloon, in the same spot you would if it was full of air. Then, using the scissors, carefully cut off the top of the balloon. Note: If you cut the balloon too close to the knot, there’s won’t be enough at the bottom to lay over the end of the paper roll.

Step Four: Create the Popper

Place the cut balloon on one end of the decorated roll and secure, using the tape. Cut lengths of regular ribbon, and using either hot glue or Elmer’s glue (if using Elmer’s, you’ll have to wait until it’s dry to continue) line the popper where the tape and balloon meet the roll. Once this is complete, cut pieces of curling ribbon and tie them around the knot of the balloon.

Optional Step: Fasten jewels to the thick piece of ribbon using glue. Hot or regular glue will do the trick.

Related: How to Make a Vision Board with Kids

Step Five: Pop the Confetti Poppers!

confetti poppers for kids

After all the crafty work, let your party people do some popping. Fill the open end of the tube with the confetti, pull down on the balloon knot and release! The confetti will explode everywhere, so be prepared for giggles. You can refill over and over for more New Year’s Eve fun.