Celebrate Independence Day Week with the Brickworld LEGO Fireworks Virtual Con

by Jennifer SwartvagherJune 10, 2020

Now that virtual conferences have become the norm, you don’t need to miss out on the experience. Chicago-based Brickworld LEGO Expo, which regularly hosts LEGO conventions throughout the Midwest, announces the Brickworld LEGO Fireworks Virtual Con on Sat., Jun. 27 from 11 a.m.to 5 p.m. CT. The Fireworks Virtual Con will present an online array of LEGO activities for all ages, featuring exhibits, presentations, builds, games and vendors in a suite of Zoom rooms, including interactions with popular LEGO Masters TV contestants and fan favorite displays like the Great Ball Contraption, and, of course, LEGO fireworks.

Tickets are $9, with $1 from each ticket donated to Brickworld’s longtime charity partner Make-A-Wish. Only 2,000 tickets will be offered worldwide, so early registration is encouraged at https://brickworld.com/brickworld-virtual-jun-27/. A $22, 3-show pass is available for June. You can also secure your tickets for Brickworld LEGO Halloween Virtual Con on Sat., Oct. 31, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT and Brickworld LEGO Holiday Virtual Con on Sat., Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

Scheduled events for the Brickworld LEGO Fireworks Virtual Con include:

LEGO Masters TV contestants in a kids challenge, also judged by expo attendees
LEGO Masters TV contestants building #WishesAreWaiting hope messages
LEGO fireworks by talented builders to celebrate Independence Day
Demonstration on how to build little LEGO critters
Advanced builder demos of spaceships and a DC landmark
LEGO interactive Escape Room and interactive robot Connect Four game
Elvendale live interactive building
Brethren of the Brick Seas Pirates World
Huge LEGO train layout with expert builder Monty’s Trains
Live character sketching with fan input by Bricks in the Middle’s Kevin Hinkle
Q&A with LEGO community manager Jan Beyer and LEGO product developers

“Brickworld is pleased to continue to bring LEGO bricks to the world,” says producer Mark Larson. “Our virtual events allow global fans to learn new construction techniques, be inspired by massive buildings, participate in global games and remain #SaferAtHome!” Brickworld is also posting ongoing how-to demonstration videos so LEGO builders can improve their skills at home. Current postings include Building Round Part One and Building a Truss Bridge. Fans are encouraged to subscribe to the Brickworld YouTube channel to see the latest in alternative builds and other skills.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Rick Mason on Unsplash

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Toys”R”Us Is Opening 2 New Stores in the Next 2 Weeks

by Erica LoopNovember 30, 2019

Your kiddo’s fave retailer is making a return—just in time for the holidays! Toys”R”Us is back and its first new store opens at the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey on Nov. 30.

Along with the Paramus store, Toys”R”Us will also open at the Galleria in Houston, Texas on Dec. 7!

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Richard Barry, CEO at Tru Kids, the parent company of the Toys“R”Us brand, said in a press release, “With the return of Toys“R”Us stores in the U.S., we are bringing a highly engaging, experience-driven retail destination that celebrates play and deepens the connection between the world’s best toy, play and entertainment brands and customers.”

So what can you expect from the new Toys”R”Us stores? According to the company the updated version of the iconic toy retailer, “Brings an immersive modern shopping experience where products are off the shelves and in the hands and imaginations of customers.”

Shoppers can expect a gracious greeting from a giant-sized plush Geoffrey the Giraffe, climb up steps that have the epic lyrics, “I don’t wanna grow up, I’m a Toys”R”Us kid” on them, visit Geoffrey’s Tree house or get a peak at a virtual 3D version of Geoffrey in the giraffe’s Magical Mirror. The stores will also include an open event space called the Play-A-Round Theater. Kids, and their grown-ups, can check out demos, enjoy author visits, engage in character meet and greets and so much more.

Not only can your kiddo immerse themselves in exciting in-store experiences, but they can also shop brands such as Hasbro, LEGO, Melissa & Doug and more. The stores will feature anchor shops from NERF, LEGO, Nintendo, Spinmaster, VTech and other favorites.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Toys”R”Us via Instagram

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Target Is Bringing “Toy Story 4” to Stores for a 1-Day Event

by Erica LoopJune 27, 2019

With the recent release of Disney and Pixar’s newest big screen soon-to-be fave, everyone is talking about Toy Story 4! Whether your Buzz and Woody fan has already seen the animated awesomeness or not, Target has a day of film-themed fun planned.

Along with a mountain or merch, the big red bullseye retailer is also turning the newest installment in the Toy Story franchise into an action-packed interactive event—on Saturday, Jun. 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

https://www.instagram.com/p/By-ea44AiaG/

What can you expect from this in-store event? Target locations nationwide (click here to see if your local retailer is participating) will host an array of activities, including hands-on toy demos, giveaways and snacks. And, of course, plenty of Toy Story 4 gear!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Courtesy of Target

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Flower Power: Bouquets to Art at the de Young

by Amber GuetebierApril 2, 2015

What happens when fine art meets floral design? Bouquets to Art at the de Young is a floral extravaganza with botanical creations that wow year after year. Diebenkorn in dahlias? Bierstadt in branches? Or maybe Rivera in roses? Every year and every arrangement is different. Read on for our tips for navigating this popular annual event with your little perennials.

Photo: May Wong via Flickr

Wild and Wonderful
Hundreds of local florists, garden clubs, and floral-students create botanic works that echo the fine art of the de Young museum. Each artists or organization is assigned a work of art in advance, and months of preparation go into the perfect design. Sometimes literal (gowns created out of tiny blossoms) and sometimes figurative. the entire museum comes alive with the color and smell of fresh flowers.

Photo: May Wong via Flickr

The fragrant displays are throughout the museum. You’ll notice them upon entry. Wander through the many different galleries to see how the florists have used their medium to interpret the works of art. Bring a small sketch pad and a crayon or two and let the kids do some interpretative work of their own.

Photo courtesy Fine Arts Museum of SF

Throughout the week, there will be floral design demos, catered luncheons, and for families, two days that offer hands-on activities: Sat., April 18 and Sun., April 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kids will make original paper flower arrangements inspired by the floral displays throughout the museum. Recommended for kids ages 4-12. For families with kids 3 and under, if possible try for a weekday visit when the crowds are thinner. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the least crowded in general.

Photo: May Wong via Flickr

Good to Know
The cafe offers plenty of kid-friendly fare, but the lines can be long. Send a recon person ahead to get in line and order while you take the kids into the garden to play. The garden also makes a nice spot for nursing moms, as does the far corner of the African Art exhibit on the second floor. It’s dimly lit and there’s a bench. There are infant changing stations in all restrooms. Strollers are not allowed in the museum on this day. You can check them downstairs next to coat check.

Photo: Courtesy of the author

Date/Time
April 14-19, 2015
9:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
Special members only viewing hours, Wed., 6 p.m.

Cost
$22/adults; $12/child 13-17; children 12 and under are free.

Members are free. Kids workshops are free; floral design demos are $40 (includes admission to the museum); luncheons are $70/person.

Location
de Young Museum
Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Dr.
San Francisco, Ca 94118
For info about Bouquets to Art: 415-750-3504

Getting There
On Saturday, John F.Kennedy Dr. is closed from 8th Ave. to Transverse Dr. You can access the Music Concourse Garage from both entrances, but there will be limited street parking. On Sunday, JFK Drive will be closed from Kezar to 8th. (You can still access the garage from both entrances). Public transit lines include: 44, 5, N Judah, and the 71. There is also a free shuttle in the park. which runs 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sat. & Sun.

What’s your favorite part of Bouquets to Art? Share your photos with us on Instagram #rockedtheweekend.

–Amber Guetebier

You’re Invited: Shakespeare’s Big Birthday Bash

by Ayren Jackson-CannadyMarch 2, 2015

We know your kids probably have a million birthday parties to go to this year, but this one won’t require a last minute stop at the toy store and some recycled wrapping paper. In honor of William Shakespeare’s birthday, the Folger Theater is throwing the Bard an awesome bash on Sunday, and the entire family invited! Here’s a look at the kid-friendliest festivities (happening April 19) the fete has to offer, including the one thing no good shindig should be without…cake!

Photo: Teresa Wood via Folger Shakespeare Library

Challenge the Jugglers and Jesters
These talented entertainers will have your children mesmerized in seconds. From atop their throne (aka your lap), they can clap their approval just like Queen Elizabeth I would have during Shakespeare’s time.

Ohh and Ahh at the Sword Fighting Demos
On guard! Your kids will be enthralled by the practiced sword fighters and their handy work. They’ll love the difficult moves, so be sure to remind them that these techniques should not be attempted at home!

Photo: ChesterSimpson.com via Folger Shakespeare Library

Meet The Lady of the Hour (aka Queen Elizabeth I)
Speaking of Queen Elizabeth I, she and all of her finery will make an appearance as Shakespeare’s artistic patron. Don’t let her puffy sleeves and shiny crown fool you; Queen Elizabeth I was an incredibly strong historical figure, and played a very important role in theater during her reign.

Photo: ChesterSimpson.com via Folger Shakespeare Library

Pen Your John Hancock…with a Quill!
Even if kiddo is still struggling to spell his or her name, quill writing can be a great way to make handwriting fun. Afterwards, buy them their own quill to use at home, and you might have a little Shakespeare on your hands.

Nosh on Birthday Cake on the Folger Front Lawn
Shakespeare may not be present to blow out the candles, but he still gets an honorary birthday cake. Your kiddos might need a little sugar after all of the day’s excitement!

When: April 19, 10 am-5 pm
Folger Shakespeare Library
201 East Capitol St. SE. (Capitol South)
202-544-4600

Will you celebrate the bard’s birthday? Tell us n the comments section below.

–Kelly Ann Jacobson

Say Bonjour to the 2nd Annual Bastille Day Bash

by Katie KavullaJune 15, 2013

Bonjour Seattle! It’s time for Madison Valley’s second annual Bastille Day bash where you and your kids can say “oui, oui” too all things French from 3:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. this Saturday, July 13. Come dive in to French culture from food, live music and performances. And did we mention, it’s free?

While Seattle is no Paris (sigh, we wish!), Madison Valley, with its sweet boutiques, divine places to grab a bite and a glass of wine, and picturesque sidewalks that are perfect for strolling, will be the perfect substitute.

A Little History:
A traditional French holiday, Bastille Day honors the day the French reclaimed their prison, Bastille, on July 14, 1789. This was a pivotal moment during the French Revolution and to the people of France, Bastille Day represents freedom for their country and for French families. Bastille Day is celebrated with parades, delicious meals and a day off to spend with loved ones.

How you and yours can participate this year:
Grab the kiddos and come join in on all the great fun Bastille Day has to offer. Festivities will be held on East Madison Street, between 27th and 30th Avenues to be exact and we promise, there’s enough fun for everyone.

The little ones can channel their inner Monet with Thrive Art School’s French inspired art workshops. For kiddos ages 5 to 9 years old, register them in advance for this $45 workshop here. While you can stroll the Bastille Bash, meander in and out of the boutiques that will be serving wine (a $10 donation gets you a wine passport for sampling), do a little dancing to the many live bands and have some kid-free time.

Other fun things you won’t want to miss at Madison Valley’s Bastille Bash include free garden and chef demos, jugglers, stilt walkers and accordion players.

Proceeds will benefit the Children’s Response Center. If that isn’t something to put a j’adore on, we don’t know what is.

Be in the know:
Date: Saturday, July 13, 2013 from 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: Seattle’s Madison Valley, on East Madison Street from 27th Avenue to 30th Avenue
Cost: No entrance fee
Website: Keep an eye on details on the Bastille Bash Facebook page

Are you planning on attending Bastille Bash with your kids?

— Katie Kavulla

photo courtesy of Evado PR on behalf of Bastille Bash

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