Instead of your go-to Mother’s Day flowers, give mom something that’ll last longer than a few days. And no, we’re not talking mugs or pictures (though moms love those, too). Plant and flower subscriptions are a great way to keep mom feeling special all year. Flowers and plants will give the house some life, and there are options out there for everyone from a beginning gardener to a plant lady pro.
To help you decide which one is perfect for your mother figure, check out our curated list of plants and blooms that are ready for delivery. There are options with different degrees of care, so even if the mom in your life doesn’t have the quintessential green thumb, she can still easily keep them looking their best. And bonus! Many of these Mother’s Day flowers and plants come with pretty pots and planters, so she won’t even need to repot them later. Take a look at all these stunning colors, too. See them all below.
The Bouqs Co. Subscription
The Bouqs Co. is a go-to for us, thanks to their stunning blooms that stay fresher longer because they're shipped directly from eco-friendly farms. With The Bouqs Co. subscription, mom gets a bouquet of gorgeous flowers every month, and you can customize your plan to bet fit her (and you never pay for shipping on subscriptions, saving you $25 off the bat!).
You can't go wrong with a plant subscription from Lively Root. Mom doesn't even have to have an especially green thumb to love this one either. Select from different subscription options like the Easy Care Plant Subscription, Pet-Friendly Plant Subscription, and more. Every 3 months, a new plant arrives with care instructions, so she can enjoy their new greens easily.
Each box from Plant In The Box includes a small to medium-sized plant, virtual care card, and free shipping with their 'Arrive Safe Guarantee.' Choose from 3 subscription options: the Bloomer Box with easy to care for houseplants, the Fur-Friendly Box for households with curious pets, and the Majestic Marvels Box for those who like rare finds!
Good things come in small packages? With the Baby Mystery Jungle Box from Rooted, that's absolutely true. These adorable little baby plants are extra-small, so they're great for the office, window ledge, or other small spaces!
The Herb Garden Subscription from Gardenuity comes with a hand stitched grow bag, custom blended soil, and nutrients, plus three seasons of fully-rooted plants. Mom gets 3 seasonal deliveries, creating a year of herb harvesting! And not to worry; Gardenuity analyzes your location and customizes an assortment of herbs specific to your climate.
The Sill's plants are sourced from local growers to ensure their quality and to support family-owned businesses (we sure do love that!). They also guarantee your plants arrive in happy, healthy condition, or they replace them for free. Your subscription includes a curated plant, a chic ceramic planter, and instructions. Pick from a 3 or 6 month subscription gift, and from 3 different box options: Easy-Care, Orchids, or Pet Friendly.
Farmgirl Flowers offers a flower subscription service for their signature gorgeous burlap-wrapped flower bouquets and David Austin roses arrangements. Choose from weekly, biweekly, or monthly. When you “Make It A Recurring Delivery", you can select your delivery start and date and how often you’d like your flower subscription to deliver!
The Horti Plant Subscription Box is created to take you through different layers of plant care! Not only do recipients get beautiful plants monthly, but you actually learn how to take care of them, so you'll become a better plant parent. Every level of plant-care experience is covered here!
It's hard not to drool over FLOWERBX's offerings. Their subscriptions include options for weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly deliveries of their beautiful flowers—including Snapdragons, Avalanche Roses, Dutch Tulips, Peonies, and so many more—so mom's Instagram will be a whole garden of flower pics (who could blame her?).
Seasonal, sustainably sourced bouquets sent from Bloomsy's eco-friendly farms straight to mom's door. Just choose your size and subscription type—including Tropical, Hydrangea, Roses, and more!—and they take care of the rest. Monthly, weekly, and exclusive plans are all available!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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From magical dragon eggs to a no-sew mask, we’ve rounded up fun projects to make your little ones roar
They soar through your little adventurer’s imagination breathing fire, challenging knights of the realm, and guarding magical eggs against would-be thieves. In short, dragons are epic. And your half-pint can’t get enough of them. Indulge their fiery dreams with one of our favorite dragon crafts. And, since 2024 is the Year of the Dragon according to the lunar calendar, even more reason to break out the supplies and get crafty just in time for the Lunar New Year.
After you decorate dazzling dragon’s eggs, pretend to be Harry Potter whisking it out from under the Hungarian Horntail’s nose, while your Gryffindor team cheers you on. Get the details from Quite Frankly She Said.
Bet you can’t guess what gives this Chinese dragon craft its scaly design. Find out at No Time for Flashcards, where easy step-by-step instructions walk you through this serpentine creation.
Take to the skies when you engineer flying dragons. To complete this simple project, you need paper plates, paints or markers, and the downloadable template designed by Pink Stripey Socks. Print, cut, color, play!
Dragon's Eyes
Allison Sutcliffe
Paint gleaming dragon’s eyes with this painless craft. We love the big payout this quick, arty activity has for tiny dragon lovers. To make your own, check out the how-to video from Our Peaceful Planet.
Create a fire-breathing dragon with leftover toilet paper rolls. One Little Project spells out the need-to-know info to make this manually activated, monstrously fun craft.
Colored construction paper is the main ingredient for this delightfully easy-to-put-together dragon hand puppet, designed by Sarah at Ruffles and Rainboots. We love these playful guys!
From money envelopes to dragons, here are the best Chinese New Year crafts for preschoolers and beyond
We’re squealing with excitement over the upcoming Lunar New Year. This family-centric celebration starts on the first day of the new moon on the Lunar Calendar, and we’ve searched high and low for ways to involve the whole crew. From paper lanterns and red envelopes to lunar calendars and more, find your favorite Chinese New Year crafts to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. We’ve also got fun dragon crafts for kids!
Make this amazing dragon craft with the simplest materials. Tissue paper, pom poms, a toilet paper tube, glue, and googly eyes are all you need for this craft, but let your kiddo be creative and use whatever they’d like.
Light up your new year with these simple sparkle Chinese lanterns made from colored paper, jewel stickers, tape, and glue. Put them up in pairs, but remember—four is an unlucky number! If your little crafter is on a roll, eight lanterns strung together are lucky and bring wealth. Heidi over at Happiness is Homemade gives us the how-to-do.
Your little reveler can bring good luck and have fun creating this paper dragon craft. It's easy to make with things from around the house: paper, paint, a rolling pin, bubble wrap, and googly eyes. Psst ... this can be an afternoon activity if you make a really big dragon! Get the step-by-step at No Time for Flashcards.
Since the Chinese Calendar is based on the lunar calendar with each month beginning on the first day of the new moon, have your little ones fill out the different phases to see where the New Year's month begins. You’ll need a calendar, circle stickers, and scissors. Find a quick tutorial, here.
Tangerines and oranges symbolize good luck and wealth for the new year. Your little moon can bring this bright and vibrant happy color into the house with this cute Chinese New Year craft by Chelsey at Buggy and Buddy. It’s easy to make with colored paper, brown yarn, scissors, and glue.
What tot can resist those red envelopes? Usually filled with money (of even denominations) and given out at the celebratory dinners, if you have time, you and your crew can make these little envelopes and decorate them too. We love the version from Sue over at First Palette because it comes with a printable template!
Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival, so what better way to celebrate than by letting your little artist finger-paint cherry blossoms on Chinese fans? Just grab some colored paper, a black pen, paint, and tape. The instructions can be found over at In the Playroom.
Your little scribes may not be ready to master Chinese characters, but you can still introduce them to the art of calligraphy. Once you've gathered the basic supplies of a pen, ink, and paper, you can follow Rachelle Doorley's guide over at Tinkerlab.
Get musical by making a Chinese-inspired gong, like this one from Kid World Citizen. You can even experiment with different pan sizes for different types of sounds.
Let littles get hands-on Chinese New Year-style exploring in this sensory bin. First, color the rice red to bring good luck (A quick how-to at Little Bins for Little Hands). Then add chopsticks, old Chinese coins, teacups, spoons, Lunar New Year sayings, red envelopes, and our favorite, a Buddha. Be sure to supervise toddlers while they enjoy this fun experience.
Birthday coloring pages are an easy way to keep young party guests entertained
It’s party time! You’ve decided on the birthday theme and you’ve picked your birthday cake recipe. All that’s left is to figure out what to do with your guests. How about fun birthday coloring pages? We’ve gathered up 14 of our favorites in all kinds of themes ranging from farm animals to Star Wars. They’ll keep the kids busy, and as a bonus, lots of these printouts double as birthday cards! We’ve even got printable placemats that make perfect table decorations.
We love Paper Trail Design’s I Spy printable birthday worksheet. The page is packed full of tiny treasures for little ones to circle, and it’s a fun, free, quiet activity that will occupy birthday kids before dinner. Find this birthday activity at Paper Trail Design.
Chocolate or vanilla, any cake is a good cake. We love that this toddler and preschool-friendly birthday cake coloring page comes without candles, so your birthday kid can draw on just the right amount. Head over to Crayola to find this coloring page.
This adorable bright-eyed and bushy-tailed fox is just right for an animal or forest-themed birthday celebration. Print out extra copies of this birthday coloring page so every birthday party guest can color in their own fox friend. Find this fox at Super Coloring.
Here's a coloring page that is fit for birthday royalty. Author and illustrator Sharee Miller’s Draw Your Own Princess page features a bright frame waiting for your budding artist’s own creation. We suggest printing out a dozen to have a pack of unique princesses when it's party time. Scroll down on Sharee Miller’s site to download and print.
Star Wars fans will flip for Desert Chica’s Star Wars Birthday Placemats. With tic tac toe, a word scramble, and even droids to decorate, birthday party guests will be occupied while they wait for their pizza and Star Wars-style blue milk. Zoom over to Desert Chica to download your own free printable.
If you have a swashbuckling pirate captaining your ship, print out this spot-the-difference free printable. They'll be too busy using their eagle eyes to find the seven differences between the pirate ships to pillage his presents. Sail over to Super Coloring to download and print your own.
Kids will flip for the sweet puppy on this birthday coloring page. When decorated, it makes a great card for a dog-loving kid to receive from a buddy, or the birthday girl can color it in and display it on the fridge. Find this friendly fuzzball at Super Coloring.
B. Nute’s Mad Hatter Tea Party Printable is fit for birthdays and un-birthdays alike. We love that this festive party table lets your little one doodle her own favorite characters and tea party treats. Whether you take one lump of sugar or two in your tea, you’ll love this coloring page. Visit B. Nute’s blog to download and print.
Your local diner’s placemat doesn’t have anything on the birthday party placemat created by Hello Creative Family. With a word search, a countable pile of sprinkles, and a maze that leads to a party hat, this free birthday worksheet will give your little one something fun to do after they devour their birthday morning pancakes.
Blow out the candles before this fire-breathing dragon has a chance. Fans of mythical beasts will love decorating this dragon birthday coloring page with colorful scales. Don’t worry—he’s a friendly fire-breathing dragon! Super Coloring has the download you need.
Toddlers who love a good petting zoo or go ga ga for cows will be delighted by this farm animal coloring page. The free printable from Jessie and Jade awaits their colorful scribbles. Visit Jessie and Jade to download and print your own menagerie.
It might be a little more work than the other birthday printables on our list, but this homemade scratch art will keep elementary-aged kids busy (at least a bit!), as they'll be creating a coloring page of their own. Head over to Hello Wonderful for the instructions.
Blast off to the moon with a space-themed birthday coloring page. This rocket doubles as a placemat and is just right for kids who dream of Mars and freeze-dried ice cream. Find your own at Jessie and Jade.
This dot-to-dot ice cream cone adds a little extra challenge—instead of following numbers, kids follow the alphabet from start to finish. After that, birthday guests can color in their favorite flavor. Download and print your own at Super Coloring.
Let’s just say these family-friendly Lunar New Year events are really hoppin’
2023 ushers out the year of the Tiger and introduces the year of the Rabbit, the luckiest of all 12 of the Chinese zodiac animals. While we hope plenty of luck finds you and your family this year, we can at least point you in the right direction for ways to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with the kids around Portland. Whether you’re looking for traditional events and activities that include lion dances, red envelopes, and lanterns lighting up the sky, or you think a little extra (we’re talking balloon animals and face painting) would entice your kids to get out and celebrate, we’ve got the scoop on happenings you won’t want to miss. Our tip? Make your plans now, as many of these popular festivals require tickets and they go quickly.
1. Celebrate Chinese New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden
While some celebrations of the Lunar New Year only last a day, the Lan Su Chinese Garden celebrates the Chinese New Year for two whole weeks. That's more than enough time to wrangle the kids into their winter gear and step out for the Pacific Northwest's largest Lunar New Year celebration. Festive decorations, tours, crafts, and performances are just a taste of what you'll experience if you visit during the daytime hours. Kids can have a bunny meet-cute, see Chinese lion dances and martial arts demonstrations, even learn calligraphy if they're game. Storytimes, food, and musical performances are all part of the celebration too. Remember to get your tickets in advance for this popular celebration.
Good to Know: The Lunar New Year Opening Lion Dance, featuring Portland Lee's Association Dragon & Lion Dance Team, is free and open to the public. It kicks off the two-week long celebration on January 21, from 9:30-10 a.m.
If you really want to zhuzh up your Lunar New Year, bring the fam to see the glowing lanterns at Lan Su Chinese Garden in the evenings. It's an area favorite for a reason. Glowing lanterns surround you while large lighted lanterns float on the pond nearby. An illuminated dragon procession will keep the kids entertained, as will a Chinese chopstick challenge you can try as a family. End your evening with a warm cup of tea and snacks in the Garden Teahouse. The evening viewings run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on select nights, and tickets are a must.
Dates: Jan. 26-29 and Feb. 2-5, 2023 Cost: $45/person; $15/kid (3-11); Free, kids 2 & under
What gets your kids excited? Live performances? Crafts? Magic? Come celebrate the Lunar New Year at Keller Auditorium, as it has all three and then some. Chinese Friendship Association of Portland (CFAP), the local non-profit hosting this year's Lunar New Year's celebration, is bringing in all kinds of talent to showcase. Performances range from an astounding magic show by Golden Wand Winner Eric Qiu to routines from international rhythm gymnast champs. Kids can dig in to the various activities at the arts & crafts workshops and even try their hand at calligraphy. Prepare to be awed by this year's events celebrating the Year of the Rabbit. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for arts & crafts, and performances begin at 7 p.m.
Date: Feb. 4, 2023 Cost: $25-$115
Keller Auditorium 222 S.W. Clay St. Portland Online:portland5.com
3. Enjoy Chinese Storytime
Read books, sings songs, and recite nursery rhymes at this virtual Chinese storytime hosted by the Multnomah County Library. Best for kids six and under, it'll be an engaging time and a special way to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit from home. Please register to receive the Zoom link.
Say goodbye to the past year and welcome prosperity in the Year of the Rabbit at the Milwaukie Community Center. Lots of learning will take place at this celebration that includes dances, crafts, activities, and music. Light refreshments and exciting lion and drum dances will keep the kids engaged at this free, and very family-friendly event.
Date: Jan. 22, 2023
Milwaukie Community Center 5440 S.E. Kellogg Creek Dr. Milwaukie, OR Online: ncprd.com
Welcome the year of the Rabbit at this family-friendly Lunar New Year celebration held at the Oregon Convention Center. Expect plenty of traditional Chinese New Year activities like lion dances, folk dances, calligraphy, and martial arts demonstrations. There will be children's activities and games to be played as well. Tickets are on sale for this event now.
Oregon Convention Center 777 N.E. MLK Jr. Blvd. Portland Online:oregoncc.org
6. Make Lunar New Year Postcards & Origami
If you're up for an adventure, head north to the Hands On Children's Museum in Olympia. Always a hot destination for toddlers and their grown-ups, it's even more so on the Chinese New Year when kids can make rabbit origami and write postcards to friends and family, wishing them luck in the year ahead. These activities are included with museum admission or membership.
Date: Jan. 22, 2023
Hands On Children's Museum 414 Jefferson St. N.E. Olympia, WA Online:hocm.org
7. Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade & Celebration
Experience a dragon dance and parade when you celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Portland Chinese Museum and the Oregon Historical Society. The parade starts at N.W. 3rd and Davis Street and proceeds around Old Town, Downtown, and Oregon Historical Society Park Plaza as dancers weave in and out along the 1.4-mile route. Lion dancers and other performers kick things off around 10 a.m. before the dragon heads out for the trip.
Make a wish on a red ribbon and snap a few selfies at Washington Square Mall to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Families can also crafts, stories, and dances in the center court from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of day's activities.
You won't want to miss this free community event that has all the usual Lunar New Year celebration activities like lion dances, calligraphy demonstrations, and martial arts performances. But this gathering, hosted by local Asian American residents in partnership with Mac Market and Unidos Bridging Community includes balloon animals (our money's on the rabbit), face painting, and storytimes too. It's the perfect mix of traditional elements and a little something extra that'll get your kids excited for the day.
Date: Jan. 21, 2023
1140 N.E. Alpine Ave. McMinnville, OR Online:eventbrite.com
Don’t let your kid’s bedtime hinder your New Year’s Eve fun! We rounded up more than a dozen ways to celebrate, including some great ideas to start the new year off right!
Ring in the new year with some family-friendly New Year’s celebrations in New York City! Not sure the right move for your crew? We’ve got options for every nap time and bedtime schedule out there. For starters, begin the festivities early with events in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, or check out some Dec. 31 daytime fun with the little ones who can’t stay up until midnight. Keep the party going with options for nighttime reveling made for the whole family, and then climb out of bed the next morning and start the year off right with New Year’s Day activities. No matter what, you’re sure to find the perfect New Year’s all-ages events in NYC to say goodbye to 2022 and welcome 2023 as a family.
Light Shows in and Around NYC Let some spectacular light shows sparkle and light your road into the new year. Visit one of the best light shows in and around NYC for a dazzling display of shimmering light sculptures, many of which are open leading up to and during New Year's eve and day. From the New York Botanical Garden Glow exhibit to a 70's-inspired drive-thru experience, this year's light shows have something for everyone in the family.
Russian New Year's Celebration This special Russian New Year's celebration at Sky Village has some guesses of honor: "Ded Moroz" ("Father Frost," a.k.a. Santa) and his granddaughter will be on-site to interact with guests from 4 to 5 p.m. The event will feature traditional games, presents, photo-ops, singing, dancing (including the traditional Khorovod dance), and more. If you bring in a wrapped gift, you can hand it off to Santa to be officially "delivered" to your child from the jolly man, himself! Adults are encouraged to bring their own booze if they want, though there will be Pelegrino and juice on-site for a non-alcoholic option.
Sat., Dec. 17, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Sky Village NYC Astoria 23-81 21st St. Online: eventbrite.com
NYSoM HolidayMania 2022 What if you wanted to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's all at once? You can, at the NYSoM HolidayMania extravaganza! For the New Year's party, head over to the New Year's 2023 Jam, where "Lady New Year's" will be leading the party as visitors sing karaoke and get a head start on the celebrations. Don't forget to visit the sections dedicated to the other holidays for fun activities like spinning the Wheel of Kwanzaa at the Kwanzaa Village, hanging out with the Dreidelator in Hanukkah Town, saying hi to Santa at the Winter Wonderland, and lots more. Plus, all visitors with kids will receive free gifts while supplies last.
Sat., Dec. 17, 2-6 p.m. East Harlem Tutorial Program 2050 2nd Ave. East Harlem Online:eventbrite.com
The Times Square NYE Wishing Wall Leave a positive message for visitors to the Times Square ball drop via the NYE Wishing Wall. Submit a wish on the digital Wishing Wall and it'll be among the thousands of confetti wishes that fall on New Year's in Times Square. Make sure to leave your wish by December 28 to have it be printed this year (any wishes submitted after this date will be included in next year's celebrations, instead).
Noon Year's Eve Dance Party at the Staten Island Children's Museum This fun party lets kids count down to the new year, even if your little ones are too young to stay up until the actual countdown. Instead of midnight, this party ends with a countdown to noon, and includes plenty of dancing and party favors. This experience is free with admission—just show up ready to party!
Sat., Dec. 31, 12-2 p.m. Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M Staten Island Online:sichildrensmuseum.org
New Year's Eve at Marage This New Year's bash is designed to get kids involved with all the stuff that adults do to celebrate the occasion. This includes putting on cute 2023 glasses, waving glow sticks, drinking sparkling apple cider (non-alcoholic, of course!), and even writing New Year's resolutions (that they'll hopefully have better luck keeping than most adults). A DJ will provide the festive music while kids do themed arts and crafts, and, of course, there will be a balloon drop to symbolically mark the beginning of a new year.
Sat., Dec. 31, 3-7 p.m. The Marage Space & Event Hall 111-10 Farmers Boulevard Hollis Online:eventbrite.com
New Year’s Eve Ball at CMOM The Children's Museum of Manhattan has two full days of celebrations lined up for its annual New Year's Eve ball drop and dance party. Kids will design candy-inspired silly hats and glasses for the party, make their own New Year's balls for a mini-NYE ball drop, and count down to noon in a mock New Year's countdown. The party keeps going after the "noon" new year with music curated by DJ Suce, with dancing, singing, and general festivities.
Fri., Dec. 30-Sun., Dec. 31 212 W 83rd St. Upper West Side Online:cmom.org
New Year’s Eve Evening and Nighttime Events in NYC
Dave & Buster's New Years Eve Party It's all fun and games at the Dave & Buster's New Year's event, where families can play in the arcade, enjoy delicious appetizers, pop some party favors, and enjoy a 5-hour open bar and a complimentary champagne toast (for 21+ only, of course). A live DJ will play as the scene in Times Square outside is displayed on large screen TVs so everyone in attendance can count down to 2023 and watch the ball drop live. Special VIP packages are available to purchase, which include reserved seating in case you need a space for the younger members of your family to rest amid all the excitement.
Sat.-Sun., Dec. 31-Jan. 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Dave & Buster's 234 West 42nd St., 3rd Floor Murray Hill Online:eventbrite.com
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park Back for the first time since 2020, watch fireworks explode in beautiful colors over Prospect Park. The fun begins at 10 p.m. with a performance by Quintessential Playlist. The event is free but an RSVP is required to gauge interest and space.
Sat.-Sun., Dec. 31-Jan. 1, 10 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Grand Army Plaza Flatbush Ave. Prospect Heights Online: prospectpark.org
New Year's Day Dinner Cruise See the city from a different perspective by heading out on Liberty Cruise's New Year's Day Dinner Cruise. Embark on your adventure onboard a three-deck vessel, where you'll be treated to a three-course meal with the evening NYC skyline and a live DJ to accompany the experience. Head to the Sky Deck for incredible 360 degree views and photo-ops of the city and passing landmarks.
Sun., Jan. 1, 7 p.m. Pier 36 299 South St. Lower East Side Online:libertycruise.nyc
New Year's Eve on the Lanes in Bowlero Strike out at Bowlero for an active and fun New Year's bowling session! Special family play slots are available to book right now, which include two hours of bowling (shoes included), your choice of food from the menu, unlimited soda, and a champagne or sparkling cider toast. If this sounds right up your alley, book soon: Most dec 31st time slots are already full, but at the time of this writing, there are still plenty of options on new year's day.
Sat., Dec. 31-Sun., Jan. 1, various times 222 W. 44th St. Times Square Online:bowlero.com
New Year's Day Super Hike in NYC Parks Make 2023 a year of health and fitness by starting strong on the very first day of the year. Join a New Year's Day Super Hike in any one of the five participating parks, and walk away the previous year's worries and New Year's dinner. Urban Rangers lead these long walks, and take detours from the well-worn paths to explore hidden natural wonders, explore the city's urban forests, and breathe in some fresh air away from electronics and distractions.
Salute to Vienna at Lincoln Center Based on Vienna's Neujahrskonzert (New Year's Concert), this tribute to the tradition is a great way to introduce kids to the world of Viennese music from the heights of the country's golden age of composition. Listen to well-known tunes like the Blue Danube Waltz, tap along with dances, be uplifted by overtures, and more. This Lincoln Center performance is in its 26th year, and features music played by The Strauss Symphony of America and dance by Europaballett (Austria) and champion ballroom dancers.
Sun., Jan. 1, 2:30 p.m. David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center 10 Lincoln Center Plaza Lincoln Square Online:salutetovienna.com
Harlem Gospel Choir New Year's Day Matinee Catch the world-famous Harlem Gospel Choir on the first day of the new year as they sing in the new year with a New Year's Day Matinee. Held at Sony Hall, this concert features uplifting, joyous music to put you in the right mindset to tackle 2023. All ages are welcome to attend, and a brunch menu will be available for ordering.
Sun., Jan. 1, 1:30 p.m. Sony Hall 235 West 46th St. Midtown Online:sonyhall.com
Not sure you can make it to midnight? These Seattle New Year’s Eve events happen a few hours earlier
2023 is almost here. While it’s always fun to pop open the sparkling cider and break out the silly string at home, there are lots of kid-friendly Seattle New Year’s Eve events happening around the city. If you’re looking to get out and celebrate with the kids, we’ve got the scoop on the best parties in town—from Noon Year’s Eve events that let you get home at a reasonable hour to events that will let you see the strike of midnight. Let’s get this party started!
For over thirty years, local families have been ringing in the new year at the base of Seattle's iconic Space Needle. This year, we have a feeling tons of folks will be gathering for the first in-person show since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition to the traditional fireworks and lights show, families can enjoy an 11-minute choreographed drone show highlighting pop culture moments from the past year. Consider this your 2023 celebratory trifecta.
Enjoy this Seattle-based family concert on New Year's Eve at Mount Baker Community Club. You'll hear dynamic music from Harmonica Pocket that the kiddos will love and just might do a jig to. Your family will ring in the New Year on a happy note with this music in your ears. Doors at 10 a.m. Show starts at 10:30 a.m. Please note, families can either purchase tickets for $5 per person at the door, or subscribe to the concert series.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 10:30 a.m.
Mt. Baker Community Club 2811 Mount Rainier Dr. S. Seattle Online: mountbaker.org
3. New Year’s Eve Pajama Party
The Seattle Children's Museum is throwing a daytime New Year's Eve pajama party you won't want to miss. This event will be filled with special activities, a dance party, and even materials for everyone to make a time capsule. This will be such a fun and memorable way for your kids to ring in 2023 and it's included with your admission fee.
For an all-day celebration, join the staff of KidsQuest as they ring in 2023. Activities will happen every few hours, ensuring the delight and joy never ends for your kids. Kids can get some fabulous face paint, hear a sensational story time, and experience the famous bubble wrap stomp. Tickets are required, and families can reserve times at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., or 4 p.m. to celebrate.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
KidsQuest Children's Museum 1116 108th Ave. N.E. Bellevue, WA Online: kidsquestmuseum.org
5. Candyland Family NYE
The theme says it all at this family-friendly celebration that includes face painting, balloon artists, music, Disney princess appearances, and a major balloon drop that'll have your kids squealing with delight. And that's all before (or after) you play a round of mini golf on one of the coolest indoor courses around—they have unicorns and a throne. Tickets are just $25 per person for anyone over 6 years old and free for anyone under 5.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 5-8 p.m.
Forum Social House 700 Bellevue Way N.E., #700 Bellevue, WA Online:forumsocialhouse.com
6. Noon Year's Eve at KiDiMu
Put a scenic ferry ride on your list of New Year's Eve activities and make your way to Bainbridge Island for this kid-friendly celebration. Kids will have a chance to play at the museum, sure, but the highlights of the day include fireworks science and New Year's-themed crafts. Add in a celebratory countdown to noon to get 2023 started in the right direction. You'll need tickets to attend.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Kids Discovery Museum 301 Ravine Ln. N.E. Bainbridge Island, WA Online: kidimu.org
Hands On Children's Museum
7. Rockin' Rockfish Noon Year's Eve
Everyone is invited to virtually join the staff at Seattle Aquarium for their third annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration. It's a super-fun way to welcome 2023 with new animals, music, and dances—even more fun than last year. The event will be hosted by Diana Cardiff with music from Mikey the Rad Scientist. Plus kids can learn amazing facts about some of the animals at the Seattle Aquarium. Register online (it's free!) and you'll be sent the YouTube link so your crew can participate from home. The site has bonus activities so you can get your kids jazzed up for all the fun in advance.
Bring the kids to Olympia for the Hands On Children's Museum's unforgettable Noon Years Eve Party. This year's theme is "Shine Bright in the New Year." Expect lots of sparkle, shine, glimmer, and glow activities that tie into the theme like Dr. Science experiments, bioluminescence, shooting star launching, glitzy crafts, and a photo booth. The Noon Year’s countdown includes a dance party, ball drop, and parade every hour throughout the day. Our tip? Make your online reservations in advance and save $2 on admission.
Good to Know: The museum will have a sensory-friendly room and art space set up from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. so kids of all abilities can join in the fun throughout the day.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hands On Children's Museum 414 Jefferson St. N.E. Olympia, WA Online:hocm.org
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9. New Year's Eve Pajama Party
2023 is almost here and that's as good a reason as any to celebrate with a kid-friendly cooking class. Welcome 2023 with color, style, and flavor—with a cooking party for kids ages 4-9. Kids will toast to the end of 2022 with a homemade cheese quesadilla, confetti cupcakes, hot cocoa, and more. They'll even come home with cinnamon rolls to bake up on New Year's Day. Be sure to register in advance for this class. Two sessions are available on New Year's Eve—one in U Village, one at the Kirkland shop.
Date & Time: Dec. 31; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
FrogLegs 2643 N.E. University Village St. Seattle Online: froglegskca.com
10. Princess Noon Year's Eve Party
Princess fans of all ages will jump at the chance to celebrate the new year at noon with their favorite princesses! Kids will enjoy games, crafts, snacks, a grand celebration, and more as the princesses from The Painted Palace countdown to 2023 at noon.
With moving tentacles and that iconic smirk, six-foot tall Ursula is here to spice up your lawn. She is super easy to set up and take down and comes with both the stakes and tethers.
Mean green Oogie Boogie stands tall in any fun Halloween scene. Bright white LED lights illuminate the creepy creature and his minions in this inflatable that is versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. He inflates in seconds and comes with tethers and stakes so he stays put.
This five-foot long inflatable skeleton puppy is carrying a sweet pumpkin candy basket with matching floppy ears. With super bright LED lights built inside, this pooch is sure to be seen.
We found the perfect counterpart to your Oogie Boogie inflatable: Jack Skellington! The seven-foot tall blow up is dressed to the nines and works for both indoor and outdoor use.
This six-foot tall Coco Miguel and Dante Halloween Inflatable is available at Home Depot. This inflatable easily self-inflates in seconds for easy setup. With energy-efficient LEDs, it provides lasting, season-long illumination. Simply plug it in and stake in the ground.
Don’t leave your furry (or feathery) family members out of all the Halloween fun! We’ve got all the best pet costumes right here.
We made sure the kiddos’ Halloween costumes covered, and have parents taken care of, too. Now we’re onto furbabies! We can’t forget our precious pets, especially since all they want is to be included (even though they didn’t technically ask to be dressed up). These Halloween pet costumes are some of the best we’ve seen this year, and we’ve seen a bunch (maybe we look them up in our spare time just for a mood-booster…).
It’s Lick-or-Treat Season and we’re celebrating! (We definitely don’t recommend costumes for pets who get upset, anxious, or uncomfortable. We want them to be as happy as they make us! If you’ve made sure your furry friend is comfy dressing up, keep reading!)
Elephant Booty Suit
As if their tails could get any cuter, this hilarious take on an elephant also means they don't have anything over their heads or faces. This one is a tusk have.
We weren't fully prepared for this level of majesty, but the wing and horn unicorn set can also double as dog toys (not that they weren't going to, anyway)!
If you'd rather skip a full costume, these pumpkin pet johns from Hanna Anderson's matching family pajamas collection are such an adorable alternative!
Even if they're not puppuccino fiends, this barkrista (sorry, we couldn't resist) apron is one of our favorites. As a bonus, it goes really well with family costume themes.
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Fireflies, popsicles and outdoor movies: the summer trifecta is upon us. Is there any better way to enjoy friends and flicks than on a blanket under the stars? We don’t think so. So, grab your bug spray, folding chairs, picnic baskets and blankets, and head out to enjoy an evening of outdoor movies this summer. Keep reading for the best places to catch an outdoor movie in Atlanta.
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Inside the Perimeter
Movies by Moonlight This classic family event has created a fun festival atmosphere that appeals to children of all ages. So picnic on the Green, sit on your blanket, lawn chair, or one of the surrounding swings, tables, and chairs, and enjoy the latest in family cinema. Food Trucks arrive at 6 pm, and there’s pre-movie fun at 6:30 pm. The movie starts at dusk.
August 6 – Black Panther August 13 – Shrek August 20 – Raya and the Dragon
Screen on the Green Twice a month, plan to enjoy a different family-friendly film on a giant outdoor screen. Bring your blankets and chairs and choose your place to sit on the lawn.
June 23 – Luca July 7 – Spongebob SquarePants Movie July 21 – King Richard August 11 – Back To The Future
Movie Under the Stars The Bowl at Sugar Hill hosts a family movie night in the award-winning amphitheater, which runs through October.
June 24 – Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark July 8 – School of Rock August 12 – Grease September 9 – A League of Their Own October 28 – Haunted Mansion
Outdoor Movie Series at Swift-Cantrell Park The 2022 Kennesaw Outdoor Movie Series continues with more family-friendly flicks at Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw. The inflatable screen lights up at dark, so arrive early (around 6 pm) for games, activities, fun, and more. Admission is free, but concessions and some activities have an extra charge.
Feature Fridays Kick back, relax on the Lawrenceville Lawn before the show, and enjoy a family-friendly flick at dusk. Come as early as 7 pm to get your spot ready.
Flicks on the Bricks Movies begin on the Duluth Town Green at 8 pm, and you can pack your picnic or pick up a pre-made dinner at one of the square’s delectable offerings.
August 5 – Aladdin September 2 – Charlie & The Chocolate Factory
Flicks on the Green in Peachtree Corners Head to the Town Green for Flicks on the Green, a free movie series. This year, get ready to celebrate all things super—Mark your calendar for the first Saturday of each month, May through October. Movies will begin at 7 pm. Bring a blanket, stretch out on the lawn, and experience movies under the stars. Grab food from your favorite Town Green restaurants and picnic. The Red Popcorn Wagon will have popcorn, sweet treats, and beverages for sale from their iconic wagon.
July 2 – Big Hero 6 August 6 – Megamind September 3 – Captain America: The First Avenger October 1 – Lego Batman Movie
Fun & Cheap Movies That Aren’t Necessarily Outdoors
2022 Regal Summer Movie Express With nine Atlanta locations, you’re guaranteed to find one playing a show that’ll delight your crowd of movie critics. In addition, you can catch a family flick for $2 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Movie Tavern by Marcus Theatres Find Movie Taverns in Roswell, Tucker, and Suwanee, where you can see a movie for just $5 on Tuesdays.
Starlight Drive-In Theatre Step back in time and watch a movie from your car at this classic Atlanta drive-in theatre. Ages 10 and older, $10; ages 5-9, $1.
2000 Moreland Ave. SE Atlanta
Picture Show at Merchants Exchange On Tuesdays, tickets are half-price at $4.50, or you can see a movie for $1 on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:15 am during the Summer Movie Series.