ML Interest Tag: free-candy

Bushels of Fun: The 17 Best Places for Apple Picking near DC

by Angelica Kajiwara

Apples, cider, and donuts: what could be better?

Fall is filled with some of our favorite traditions. Topping that list? Apple picking. So before you start Googling Halloween costumes or sipping pumpkin spice lattes, take a few minutes to scroll this list of places to go apple picking near DC. Make a quick trip to MD’s Homestead Farms, just 25 minutes from downtown DC, for an afternoon adventure, or go on a weekend escape and visit Carter Mountain Orchard near Charlottesville, VA. Whether you’re looking for a country road trip or a fantastic fall field trip, we’ve rounded up the best places to fill your bucket.

The Best Apple Picking in Maryland

Butler's Orchard

Head to this GMO-free farm to find many varieties of apples throughout the fall pick-your-own season. You'll pay by container, not weight, and reservations are required to ensure your spot. After you've filled up on apples, head to the Farm Park to enjoy giant slides, farm animals, pedal tractors and more. Get your fresh-based fruit pies, seasonal produce, local cheeses, and festive fall decor at the orchard’s market.

Distance to DC: 27 miles

22222 Davis Mill Road
Germantown, MD
Online: butlersorchard.com

Homestead Farm

Don't know your Ginger Golds from your Granny Smiths? Can't tell what's ripe or not? No problem! This is a teaching farm, so just ask and you shall receive. Side note: You can leave the flimsy grocery store bags at home—Homestead hooks you up with heavy duty totes to collect your crop.

Distance from DC: About 25 miles

15604 Sugarland Rd.
Poolesville, MD
Online: homestead-farm.net

Baugher’s

Baugher's Orchard has been a family-owned, working fruit and vegetable farm since 1904. It started out as a 60-acre piece of land and has expanded to become a 600-acre operation and one of the largest orchards in Maryland. Enjoy a wagon ride to the orchard and pick from apple trees on a picturesque Carroll County hillside. Kids can run around at the playground and even explore the Petting Zoo. Ice cream is sold in the market which is a great way to finish the day!

Distance from DC: About 70 miles

1015 Baugher Rd.
Westminster, MD
Online: baughers.com

Larriland Farm

Counting chemicals? This nearly-organic farm sprays its apples with pesticides only as a last resort. Instead, they use other tactics like crop rotation and water management to keep critters at bay. Other than their eco-conscious efforts, Larriland also offers more than 15 different types of u-pick apples, a barn store with already-plucked fruits and veggies (and kettle corn), and pre- or post-picking hayrides.

Distance from DC: About 30 miles

2415 Woodbine Rd.
Woodbine, MD
Online: pickyourown.com

Related: 30 Different Ways to Eat Apples (Not Just Pie!)

Catoctin Mountain Orchard

You'll likely smell this charming orchard before you see it. That's because, in addition to offering a host of apple varieties (including Cortland, empire, and cameo), Catoctin whips up fresh apple cider, pies, and jam in its on-site kitchen and bakery. You can pick your own fruit every weekend Sept.-Oct. Remember to bring cash or plan to use the ATM on-site. 

Distance from DC: About 60 miles

15036 N. Franklinville Rd.
Thurmont, MD
Online: catoctinmountainorchard.com

Rock Hill Orchard

Rock Hill has several thousand apple trees in its orchard. From Blondee’s to Macoun’s this is your go-to apple picking place. Your family is guaranteed to have an authentic farm experience here. Rock Hill Orchard is located in the Agricultural Reserve in Northern Montgomery County and is midway between Damascus and Mount Airy. The apple orchard opens in late August or early September. Pick-your-own time slots can be found on Fri.-Sun.; reservations are required. 

Distance From DC: About 40 miles

28600 Ridge Rd.
Mount Airy, MD
Online: rockhillorchard.com

Weber's Farm

If apple cider is your jam, this is where you'll want to lay your basket. The cider mill at this farm is the oldest in continuous use in Maryland, which means they know what they're doing. If you want to pick your own fruit, you must pre-register. Times and dates are listed weekly on their Facebook page. 

Distance from DC: About 50 miles

2526 Proctor Ln.
Parkville, MD
Online: weberscidermillfarm.com

Milburn Orchards

This family-favorite hosts "U-Pick Apple Adventures" Labor Day weekend through the end of Oct. The exploration begins with a free wagon ride into the orchards where you and your crew are given as many picking bags as you can carry. This orchard gets high marks in the convenience category—credit card payments for the apples are accepted in the orchard and all of the trees are dwarf trees with fruit that is reachable for the toddler set from the ground. P.S. Grab a few of their amazing apple cider donuts for the drive home.

Distance from DC: About 100 miles

1495 Appleton Rd.
Elkton, MD
Online: milburnorchards.com

The Best Apple Picking in Virginia

Stribling Orchard

Visit this sixth-generation family farm where the Stribling family has grown delicious fruit for 200 years. Come and enjoy a day in the country at the orchard. Relax, bring a picnic, and enjoy our breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stop by the Harvest House, where they have cider, honey, jams, jellies, salsas, hot sauces, local cheese, eggs, Virginia peanuts, cookbooks, fresh baked goods and more.

Distance from DC: 60 miles

11587 Poverty Hollow Lane
Markham, VA
Online: striblingorchard.com

Marker-Miller Orchards

Sure, this farm boasts a whopping 325 acres of apples. But, what really impresses the kid set is the cow train (it's exactly what it sounds like—a cow-shaped train); old-time-y wagon rides; and Kiddie Land, an irresistible playground complete with a large wooden ship, tractor, and wagon. Apples? What apples?

Distance from DC: About 85 miles

3035 Cedar Creek Grade
Winchester, VA
Online: markermillerorchards.com

Crooked Run Orchard

best apple picking
Erika Fletcher via Unsplash

Nestled on the outskirts of Purcellville, this farm boasts trees that bear fruit dating back to 1760! There is no admission fee and tree climbing is allowed for those under 60 lbs. After picking apples, be sure to head to downtown Purcellville for lunch.

Distance from DC: About 50 miles

37883 East Main St.
Purcellville, VA
Online: facebook.com/CrookedRunOrchard

Related: Favorite U-Pick Apple Orchards from Coast to Coast

Hartland Orchard

nyc apple picking
Sokmean Nou on Unsplash

Located near the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hartland is a deep-rooted, family-owned working farm and orchard. Take a relaxing drive and spend the day in the scenic countryside. Hartland takes pride in offering the freshest, juiciest apples possible. Containers and bags can be found upon entering the orchard, where you can spend a few hours in a stunning country setting picking a variety of apple types from Braeburns to Nittanys.

Distance from DC: About 60 miles

3064 Hartland Lane
Markham, VA 
Online: hartlandorchard.com

Great Country Farms

Apples are Great Country Farms’ thang! Apple picking is like a competitive sport to these folks so get ready to roll up your sleeves at CGF and get to work! Not only do they have apple picking, but there is also apple cider pressing, apple wine tastings, and apple butter that you can buy. Their orchard is bursting with lovely apples and they have several varieties such as Gala, Jona Gold, Jona Free, Candy Crisp, Ruby Jon, and Fuji ready for picking through the fall. The farm offers free wagon rides that take you to the orchard. Don’t forget to stop by the farm market for some hot cider donuts.

Distance from DC: About 60 miles

18780 Foggy Bottom Rd.
Bluemont, VA
Online: greatcountryfarms.com

Mackintosh Fruit Farm

Mackintosh Fruit Farm is a family-owned farm huddled in the stunning Northern Shenandoah Valley. Pick-your-own fields are open Thurs.-Sun.; there is a $2 fee to pick. Varieties include Gala, Ginger Gold, and Fuji. They sell lunch on the farm and even have breakfast specials on weekends. Got a sweet tooth? The farm sells caramel apples, apple cider floats, apple caramel sundaes, baked apples, pies, donuts, and more! 

Distance from DC: About 70 miles

1608 Russell Rd.
Berryville, VA
Online: mackintoshfruitfarm

Hollin Farms

This fourth-generation family farm is worth the drive just for the spectacular views: Virginia mountains everywhere along with other farms. With acres of apples ready to be plucked from the trees, they also offer chilled cider and other drinks, donuts, ice cream, and other fresh baked goods. Toss in the fact that they’re puppy-friendly and this orchard can quickly become your family’s favorite apple-picking destination.

Distance from DC: About 60 miles

1524 Snowden Road
Delaplane, VA
Online: hollinfarms.com

Related: 7 Beaches That Are Better in the Fall

Rinker Orchards

Rinker Orchards is truly a Shenandoah Valley hidden gem. Out of the 7,500 cultured varieties of apples, they focus on 10 that grow best in this region, and boy, do they grow them well! Bring lunch and enjoy a picturesque picnic beneath an apple tree that overlooks the orchard while the kids play tag. Make sure you give their apple cider a try—it has no added sugar, water, or preservatives.

Distance from DC: About 85 miles

1156 Marlboro Rd
Stephens City, VA
Online: www.rinkerorchards.com

Carter Mountain Orchard

This scenic farm is a couple of hours away from DC, but it's worth the drive. Expect pumpkins, hayrides, a winery, and apples...lots and lots of apples. Still on the fence? The apple cider donuts alone are worth the trip.

Distance from DC: About 125 miles

1435 Carters Mountain Trail
Charlottesville, VA
Online: chilesfamilyorchards.com

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The Best Places in Portland to Trick-or-Treat This Year

by Maggie Grainger

October’s main event is just around the corner, and we’ve got plenty of safe and fun places kids can go trick-or-treating in Portland

Looking for spook-tacular places to take the entire family trick-or-treating in Portland this Halloween? Look no further. We’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the best treat-or-treat goodies and other boo-tastic events that promise fun for the entire household. All you need to do is put on your costume and head out after an early dinner to get the jump on Halloween this year.

Where to Go Trick-or-Treating on the Westside

a beaver is with a at the Portland Zoo during a trick or treating in Portland event
Portland Zoo

Howloween at the Zoo
Howloween at the Zoo promises educational, safe, and fun for everyone this October. Costumed kids can participate in a zoo-wide scavenger hunt where they will learn about healthy habitats along the way. Yummy treat bags are available for your little adventurers at the end for just $3. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are free with zoo admission (Even infants need to be counted and must have a ticket to enter.). All you have to do is pick a time slot and the best costume, then head over for Halloween fun! 

Good to Know: Although this event is designed for kids ages 2-12, everyone is welcome.

Dates: Oct. 22, 23 & 28–31, 2022
Event details

2022 Monster Mash in Lake Oswego
For families with the twelve and under set, Lake Oswego has your Halloween afternoon covered- and not just because you get to stay in your car.  Eight locations will come to your car to deliver toys, treats, or trinkets AND the first 1000 participants get a free trick-or-treat bag.  Locations are listed on the website where you can also download a map so start thinking of ways to decorate your car and your family now.

Date: Oct. 31, 2022
Event details

Multnomah Village: Halloween in the Village
Sometimes it takes a village to make sure everyone has a memorable Halloween. Get the whole crew dressed up and join the trick-or-treat costume parade on Halloween night or visit the village all weekend long for free candy, spooky decorations, and more. Be sure to check out the categories for the virtual costume and pumpkin decorating contests online where winners will receive prizes from local businesses.

Good to Know: Events take place throughout the village the weekend leading up to Halloween too.

Date: Oct. 31, 2022
Event details

Related: Dress 'Em Up! Portland's Best Costume Shops for Kids

a group of kids in costumes is ready to go trick or treating with pumpkins in hand
iStock

All Ages Drag Bingo with Poison Waters
While you may not be able to get candy at this event, it's still a great reason to don your scary (or not-so-scary) costume and head out with the kids. B-I-N-G-O! Head down to Hotel Vance for some drag queen fabulousness for all ages. Win prizes and enjoy drinks and snacks while letting your competitive side out. Grab your tickets now before they sell out!

Date: Oct. 28, 2022
Event details

Trick or Treat Main Street
The Tigard Downtown Alliance hosts an annual Halloween event, with a safe route along Main Street. Kids–and kids at heart–can collect all kinds of loot from participating downtown merchants. It’s fun for the entire family and you can call it a night before the sun sets and the real ghosts and goblins come out to play.

Insider Tip: Looking to gather candy a little early? Try trick or treating at the Tigard Farmer's Market on the 30th.

Date: Oct. 31, 2022
Event details

The Best Westside Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treat Fun
Slightly older trick-or-treaters can enjoy the steeper streets of the neighborhood close to Forest Park along the Wildwood Trail. Park near NW Thurman Ave. and 28th Ave. and walk over the bridge into the neighborhood. In Southwest Portland, the Hillsdale neighborhood is a good one to walk around. Park near Rieke Elementary or Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School and enjoy a short, but spirited, walk between Vermont and Chestnut streets.

Where Families Can Go Trick-or-Treating on the Eastside

a group of kids ready to go trick or treating in portland in costumes
Connor Baker via Unsplash

Sellwood Community House
The Sellwood Community House knows how to throw a fall festival. Start the day off by joining the Monster March parade and stay afterwards for their carnival. Enjoy outdoor games, music, food, a photo booth, face painting, candy, and other Halloween delights. Wear your costumes, and be sure to register in advance for tickets. The Spooktacular Carnival is recommended for children ages 5-12 years old, and has a fee of $15 per child.

Date: Oct. 29, 2022 
Event details

Safe Trick-or-Treat
Downtown Gresham hosts its annual Safe Trick-or-Treat event on Halloween evening. Wear your costumes and head to historic Main Avenue to enjoy free candy, refreshments, and specials at participating businesses.

Insider Tip: On October 29, kids can also trick or treat at Gresham Station, if their candy coffers can't wait.

Date: Oct. 31, 2022
Event details

Related: Scare Up Fun! Portland's Best Halloween Happenings

Hot Trick-or-Treating Events on the Northside

a little boy in a halloween costume stands outside by a tree stump
Gabriel Porras via Unsplash

Trick-or-Treat Alberta Street
Alberta Street is planning on holding their annual Trick-or-Treat Alberta Street event but details are yet to come. Traditionally held from early afternoon until sunset, it’s designed for younger children and families, with businesses handing out candy to costumed kids.

Date: TBD for 2022

Halloween Themed 5k Beer Run at Level Beer
Parents will appreciate this event that begins and ends at Level Beer. Costumes are strongly encouraged at this annual Halloween event where participants can run, walk, or jog the untimed course. Dogs and strollers are welcome, and adults can enjoy a free craft beer and will receive a collector’s pint glass at the finish line. Plus, the entire fam has access to event activities including games, goodies, and a costume contest. Registration is limited, so sign up ASAP.

Date: Oct. 29, 2022

Level Beer
5211 N.E. 148th Ave.
Portland
Find out more online.

Standout places to trick-or-treat after dark in Northeast Portland
After dark, head to Irvington neighborhood, where residents of these classic old Portland homes really get into the spirit. NE 7th Ave. to 26th Ave., between Broadway St. and Fremont St.

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Allergy-Friendly Candy You Can Feel Good about This Valentine’s Day

by Taylor Clifton

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and parents who have allergies in the home know that the balance between finding safe products and enjoying sweet treats is (almost) as challenging as getting the kids to stay in bed after the lights go off. It can be hard to track down candies and chocolates that fit into your family’s needs, so we compiled this list of allergy-friendly items to help you out. Keep scrolling to see the different, yummy options!
Buttermints

Buttermints

$12 BUY NOW

These yummy handmade Buttermint candies are made with essential oils and pure cane sugars.

Amazon

Enjoy Life Mini Chocolate Candy

$29 BUY NOW

Free from 14 different allergens, these sweet Enjoy Life Chocolates are also vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO.

Amazon

UNREAL Chocolate Gems

$25 BUY NOW

Made with non-GMO, gluten and soy-free ingredients, these UNREAL Chocolate Gems live up to their name.

Scrummy Gummy Bears

Scrummy Gummy Bears

$39 BUY NOW

These Scrummy Gummy Bears are keto-friendly and made with non-GMO and organic ingredients, making them a delicious option for Valentine's Day.

Amazon

Black Forest Gummy Bears

$11 BUY NOW

These Black Forest Gummies are a tasty treat! They're gluten-free, and some of their products are free of the eight major allergens.

Amazon

Fruidles

$13 BUY NOW

Check out these Fruidles non-GMO candies with no artificial sweeteners. Find them on Amazon.

Amazon

Wiley Wallaby Gourmet Licorice

$7 BUY NOW

These delicious Wiley Wallaby Licorice candies are vegan and contain no high-fructose corn syrup.

Amazon

Dum Dums Pops

$13 BUY NOW

It may surprise you to know that classic and delicious Dum Dums are free of the eight major allergens!

Amazon

Choco No No's

$11 BUY NOW

Try out these dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, gluten-free and vegan candies from Choco No No's.

Target

Haribo Be Mine Mix

$1 BUY NOW

These classic Haribo gummies are free from the eight major allergens, and you can find them at Target.

 
Yum Earth

Yum Earth

$8+ BUY NOW

Free from the top eight allergens, dyes and GMOs, these candies from Yum Earth are colorful and delicious.

 

—Taylor Clifton

 

RELATED STORIES: 

Food Allergy-Friendly Recipes That Everyone Will Love

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7 Nut-Free Snacks To Pack In Lunches This Fall

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Local Portland Gifts for Everyone on Your List.

by Annette Benedetti

Even if you’re not one of those people that allow Christmas to start the day after Halloween, you might have to admit that this year it’s been creeping in– with recommendations to shop early, you might be compiling a list already! If your holiday gift list is looking slim so far, we’ve rounded up the best recommendations from local Portland stores for the whole family– Dad, Mom, Big Kid, and Baby. Read on for some great ideas from great local places to check out!

Dads:

 

Staghorn Fern from Pistils Nursery

Courtesy of Pistils Nursery

Get your plant dad a stunning Staghorn Fern Plaque to grace his wall-- these large antler-like fronds are like a piece of living taxidermy: a dramatic statement for any man cave or living room! Local plant gurus Pistils Nursery have been in business for 20 years, sharing the gift of green and gently encouraging those with blacker thumbs. Their flagship store on Mississippi, along with a new location in Slabtown showcase everything from rare and unusual plants to the coveted swiss cheese monsteras, along with chic planters, pots, and accessories. If Dad is still growing his plant passion, try a ZZ Plant (otherwise known as Zamioculcas amiifolia). One of the most low maintenance houseplants around, this is a great "set it and forget it" plant -- at least for a few weeks at a time.

Pistils Nursery
3811 N Mississippi Ave.
Portland, OR
2139 NW Raleigh St.
Portland, OR

 

Vintage Trail Blazers Jersey from Laundry

Erika M via Yelp

Tucked into Old Town/Chinatown, Laundry is like a candy store for the sports-loving Dad in your life. Full of thoughtfully curated vintage merch (like jerseys, caps and tees) from a wide variety of sports and sports brand, you can cross a few things off your list here in no time. For the Blazers fan, find Damian Lillard and Andre Miller jerseys, or go further afield with a bright orange Netherlands soccer jersey, among hundreds of others. And they have kids sizes, too!

Laundry
140 NW 4th Ave
Portland, OR
Online: laundrypdx.com

Scientific Heroes Glassware from Boys Fort

Chee K via Yelp

Maybe you have absolutely zero idea what Dad wants-- that's totally normal. Hop over to Boys Fort, where you'll find dozens of options for the Dad who has everything. Formerly downtown, they've moved their store into Urbanite on SE Grand Ave but kept it packed full of goodies, like leather wallets, unique decor, stylish Portland maps, books, hot sauce, and even an Albert Einstein pint glass, all geared toward the modern Dad. If you're still at a loss, ask them to help-- you'll walk away with an expertly curated set of gifts in no time.

Inside Urbanite
1005 SE Grand Ave
Portland, OR
Online: boysfort.com

Gifts for Moms

New Planner from Little Otsu

Courtesy of Little Otsu

For the Mom brimming with ideas, plans, schedules, or creative brainstorming, head to Little Otsu to get her all decked out. You'll find beautiful paper goods and from all over the world that will make her home office pop and inspire! Get her set for 2022 with this vibrant planner from England, or brighten up her desk with a colorful Italian stapler.

Mom can jot down all her ideas in a myriad of journals, with fountain pens, colored pencils, highlighters, and more. Don't miss the sweet collection of books and zines, including great options for kids.
 
 
Little Otsu
3225 SE Division St.
Portland, OR
 

The Hottest Fashions from The Yo! Store

The Yo! Store via Yelp

A vibrant store melding color, vintage, adults, kids, European style and American fun into one warm experience, the Yo! Store is ready to knock a few things off your list. Founded in 2016, they've been sourcing quality goods from small independent makers worldwide for years, culminating in a store that's like having your best friend say "here, try this."

You'll find clothes (quilted jackets! stylish sweatpants! polka dot sweaters!), jewelry, bags, and colorful socks for mom, but don't stop there. Stuff her stocking with nail polish and candles before moving on to the kids sections, where adorable clothes, books, and toys await. 

The Yo! Store
935 NW 19TH Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: yoportland.com/

Doug Fir Chai from Roots and Crowns Apothecary

Roots and Crowns via Yelp

Get mom a warming blend of tea with chai spices, complete with foraged Doug fir tips at this home brewed apothecary. You'll also find hand crafted brooms, candles, artwork, and journals alongside the house line, full of rose-scented face serums, mineral makeup, herbal tinctures, and bitters.

Roots and Crowns Apothecary
1812 NW 24th Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: rootsandcrowns.com

Gifts for Kids

Cheeseburger Pillow from Black Wagon

Courtesy of Black Wagon

This Mississippi Street store is chock full of fun, for kids ages 0-14 (and up)! Even the most teen of pre-teens won't be able to resist this soft cheeseburger floor pillow-- they're designed for all ages, tough enough for interactive play yet cozy enough for catching up on their favorite shows, games, and creative activities.

Or test their skills on Christmas Day with a wooden pinball set, along with a huge variety of puzzles, games, and musical instruments next to a whole wall of adorable clothes.

Black Wagon Kids
3964 N Mississippi Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: blackwagon.com

Anything from Hello! Good Morning!

Hello! Good Morning! via Yelp

This adorable store has found a new home inside Cargo, an import shop that's been in business for over 20 years (and is worth checking out in it's own right!). With a background in animation, owner Amy has expertly curated the small space so that everywhere you look there's something bright, colorful, amusing, and whimsical. Bright journals, kids books, vintage toys, ceramics, and even those rubber finger monsters mingle together in a fun and inspiring space. Your only problem will be which things to bring home with you, and which leaves to come back for later! 

Hello! Good Morning!

Inside Cargo

81 SE Yamhill
Inside CARGO
Portland, OR

Online: hellogoodmorningkids.com

Wooden Gnome Home from Spielwerk Toys

Danna F via yelp

Being a kid is hard work sometimes, and Spielwerk gets that. That's why they stock their store with all the best tools of childhood: toys, games, puzzles, and more that helps kids think creatively, solve problems, and goof around. Find your child's new favorite friend here with a wooden gnome home, or a whimsical fairy doll. And stay tuned-- they're working on launching their own line here in Portland!

Spielwerk Toys

3808 N Williams Ave Ste 121

Portland, OR

Online: spielwerktoys.com

Gifts for Babies

Board Books from Green Bean Books

Courtesy of Green Bean Books

The folks at Green Bean Books are the best kind, ready to offer you their favorite new book along with a secret smile. Full of kids books of all kinds, head here to start Baby off right with a set of adorable board books.
 
Their top picks this year are:
What's in the Box? written by Isabel Otter illustrated by Joaquin Camp. An interactive lift-the-flap and touch-and-feel book with a plethora of boxes to open with silly things inside. Perfect for baby's gift opening practice during the holidays.
Dog's First Baby by Natalie Nelson. A new baby's impact from a dog's perspective: very sweet and charming. Don't worry, a cat one is scheduled to be released in March too!
Where Is Everyone? by Tom Schamp. An interactive lift-the-flap with goofy animal characters doing ridiculous things to discover.
 
Green Bean Books
1600 NE Alberta Street
Portland, Oregon
 

Woodland Activity Blanket from Grasshopper

Courtesy of Grasshopper

The newest people in the world deserve the best things-- get the baby in your life this adorable Woodland Activity Blanket from Grasshopper, full of sensory bumps and crackling paper. Located on Alberta St, this store serves up a wide range of goodies for the little ones in your life, from babies and up! Useful items along with thoughtful design combine to offer goods that even adults will want to play with, like these sweet Babyoshka nesting dolls. You'll also find books, clothes, art, puzzles, games, baby essentials, and so much more!
 
 
Grasshopper Boutique
1816 NE Alberta
Portland, OR

—Katrina Emery

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DoorDash Is Treating Parents to Free Candy This Halloween

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Many traditional Halloween activities are being modified or are on hold this year. Even if you are planning on staying in there are many ways to celebrate. DoorDash wants to help make Halloween special especially for those who may need it most — parents. 

Halloween Candy

In a new ‘Dash-oween” survey of 1,000 parents, DoorDash found 84% of parents admit to stealing their kids’ Halloween candy. To help parents treat themselves this year without the highly-awaited candy haul from trick or treating outings this Halloween, DoorDash and Mars Wrigley are partnering to give parents a treat of their own. 

On Halloween, families can get a free “Parents Only” candy bundle exclusively through 16 DoorDash DashMarts, a new type of convenience store by DoorDash offering both household essentials and local restaurant favorites across the country.

Here’s how it works

  • Simply open up your DoorDash app and select DashMart
  • Select your ‘Parents Only’ bundle and check out
  • Use promo code ‘PARENTS” at checkout to get your ‘Parents Only’ candy bundle for free* while supplies last
  • Your order will be delivered to your door – and watch out for your Ding-Dong-Dasher with contactless delivery

DoorDash is also offering customers $5 off a purchase of $20 or more at all DashMarts and any eligible convenience store when they add candy to their cart. The promo will run from October 28 through Halloween (10/31) while supplies last.

The Dash-oween “Parents Only” promotion will be exclusively available in DashMart locations across 16 cities in the US – Chicago, Minneapolis, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dallas, Salt Lake City, the greater Phoenix area, Redwood City, CA, San Diego, Baltimore, Denver, Sacramento, Los Gatos, CA, Houston, Tempe, AZ, and Concord, CA.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Sarah Gualtieri on Unsplash

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The Best Halloween Treats for Kids with Allergies

by Mireille Schwartz

When you’ve got a kid with allergies, Halloween is a unique challenge of its own. Navigating through piles of candy that your kiddo may or may not be allergic to is not the easiest task, which is why we’ve put together a list of candies and treats that skip some of the most common allergens, like tree nuts, gluten, soy and dairy. We hope it comes in handy both when buying candy and going through your little one’s haul, but remember: always check the ingredients list and manufacturing practices before letting your littles dive in!

Enjoy Life Chocolate Minis

Enjoy Life, a leading allergen-free food manufacturer, has released their latest treat—Halloween Chocolate Minis. Choose from dark chocolate, ricemilk chocolate, ricemilk crunch and a variety pack. All of the chocolate is free of the top eight allergens and is gluten-free.

Online: enjoylifefoods.com/Halloween-Chocolate-Minis  

free2b Foods Sun Cups & Mint Cups

Free2b

Halloween can be tough for kids with food allergies. That's where free2b comes in. Their line of sun cups and mint cups are top 12 allergen-free, and free from artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, hydrogenated oils, palm oil and carrageenan, as well. The entire line is Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, Certified Vegan, Kosher Pareve and Fair Trade Certified. 

Our kid tasters particularly loved the consistency of the filling in both the sunflower and mint options. Buy them in two packs or in Halloween-themed single packs for trick-or-treaters. You can purchase them online or at a store near you. 

Black Forest Organic Trick or Treat Mix

Made with real fruit juice and simple ingredients, trick-or-treaters will go wild for this tasty mix from Black Forest Organic. It’s got a nice variety of lollipops, gummies and fruit chews, and they’re all gluten-free and nut-free.

Online: blackforestusa.com/gummy-candy.html

SAFE + FAIR Cookies and Grahams

Allergy-friendly food company SAFE + FAIR has an awesome line of kid-approved treats, including Abby’s Cookies and Remy’s Grahams. The treats are nut-free (and made in a nut-free facility), non-GMO and made with whole grains, so you’ll feel good about handing them out to the little ghouls at your doorstep. SAFE + FAIR even donates 3% of proceeds to the Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University.

Online: safeandfair.com

Hu Chocolate

This cult-favorite brand carries a range of delish vegan and paleo chocolate bars in flavors so good, you won’t even want to give them away. Try the cashew butter and raspberry jelly, the crunchy mint or the almond butter and puffed quinoa. All of the bars are free from dairy, palm oils, emulsifiers, soy lecithin, gluten, refined sugar, cane sugar and sugar alcohols, but note that some flavors contain nuts.

Online: hukitchen.com/collections/chocolate

Surf Sweets Jelly Beans

Made from organic fruit juice and cane sugar, these sweet beans are free of over 10 allergens, including tree nuts, soy, casein, sesame and more. And, they recently released a new multi-pack—just in time for the big night!

Online: amazon.com/Surf-Sweets-Organic-Jelly

Fear Not Spook Free Chocolatey Treats

Your kid can finally dig into a "peanut" butter cup, a "snickers" bar and "milk" chocolate on Halloween! These individually wrapped treats are milk free, nut free, gluten free and wheat free. They are also vegan, processed in an allergen-free environment and taste great.

Online: nowheychocolate.com

Partake Cookies

Partake makes cookies in three flavors: a yummy (and slightly spiced) carrot oat, sweet potato millet and a wholesome sprouted grain chocolate chip. Thought up by a mom who struggled to find a tasty, allergen-free snack for her own kiddo, each box of cookies is filled with veggies, fruits, and grains, and is free of top allergens, including tree nuts, peanuts, eggs, wheat and more. Gluten-free and non-GMO Project verified, there’s nothing but goodness left in these sweet snacks.

Online: partakefoods.com

Dum Dums

Kids love Dum Dums for the more than 15 different flavors, while parents love the price! Free of the top eight allergens, and made in an allergen-free facility, these suckers are always a good bet. Be sure to look for the newest flavor—pineapple!

Online: amazon.com/dum-dum-lollipops

Welch’s Fruit Snacks

This year Welch's Fruit Snacks has a Halloweeny box and pouch with custom holiday-themed fun shapes that include a bat, a spooky witch, haunted castle, and pumpkin. These guys are completely peanut & tree nut free (and also made in an allergen-free/isolated environment) and perfect for trick or treating, lunchbox treats or parties. The fruity, beloved treats will balance out the overflowing chocolate and candy options for you and your gang.

Online: target.com/welchsfruitsnacks

Sour Patch Kids & Swedish Fish

Even though these classic treats are free of the top eight allergens and are produced and labeled in compliance with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices, kiddos with severe allergies still might want to skip 'em. But, if they get the green light from parents, we found a great combo bag that offers both Sour Patch Kids and Swedish Fish.

Online: target.com/p/sour-patch-kids-halloween-variety-pack

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates

Annually a top pick: the name says it all. Lovingly made in small batches in Vermont, mail-order customers keep coming back for these incredibly delicious chocolates, creamy fudge, and every other candy you can think of! How about jelly beans? Check! Gummy Bears, crunchy-chewy Pretzel Caramel Bark? You know it. Everything is made in a tree-nut free facility (gluten/wheat, soy, eggs and dairy products are processed here, however), and worry-free seasonal candies can be shipped anywhere in the U.S.

Online: vermontnutfree.com

Gimbal’s Cinnamon Lovers

Turn up the heat with these delectable, shiny, soft, allergy-free hearts. Zinged up with spicy real cinnamon oil and bursting with flavor, they're a throwback to the old-school cinnamon hearts from our own childhood. These little red guys are; "Hot! Hot! Hot!", and for calmer palates Gimbals' also has a complete line of other candies. Gimbal's candies are peanut-free, tree nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and egg-free and also include gourmet & sour jelly beans, Sour Lovers, Cherry Lovers, and black-as-Halloween-night Licorice Scotties.

Online: gimbalscandy.com

Smarties

Another one of the candy bunch you've already heard of, but did you know Smarties are free of all Top 8 allergens? These have been dubbed "America's Favorite Candy Roll" since 1949 and Smarties Candy Company has even been featured on the Food Network's "Unwrapped" television show with a fancy-schmancy factory tour so they're about as legit as candy gets. Allergy-free, gluten-free and completely vegan. Timeless.

Online: smarties.com

Wrigley’s

So now you've met some of the new kids on the allergy-free block. Well: look no farther because here's a very familiar face! More than just Juicy Fruit or Spearmint gum, Lifesavers are delightfully allergy-free, the Gummy Life Savers and Creme Savers, too. Skittles & Starburst, oh my! Add Altoids to the allergy safe list, as well, and they're also gluten-free. So find the rainbow, taste the rainbow, and even ride the rainbow of favorite fruit flavors all while remaining allergy safe - and you can find these tasty treats absolutely everywhere.

Online: wrigley.com

PASCHA Chocolate

If dark chocolate is your thing, look no further than PASCHA Chocolate's original assertive, tasty bars. This allergen-free organic chocolate is just right for baking and is such a great addition to recipes it will take your culinary skills to a whole new level (even if the Martha Stewart gene skipped you!). How about kitchen fun on an afternoon that won’t cause any bad reactions? Mail-order chocolate chips can get whipped up into sweet batters for cookies and bars, and whole or mini-bars can be nibbled any old time without allergy-worry—so get cookin' and take a walk on the Dark Side!

Online: paschachocolate.com

—Mireille Schwartz

 

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Halloween Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating

By Elaine Thompson

For kids, Halloween is nothing but fun. They get to dress up, go trick-or-treating and receive stashes of free candy from strangers. What’s not to love?

For parents, it’s a different story. Halloween can be a night of full-fledged anxiety. Between the fear of poisoned candy and dangerous strangers, there’s a number of reasons to be worried about letting your little ladybug or Buzz Lightyear roam the neighborhood freely at night. 

Luckily, there are ways to keep your kiddos safe this Halloween without taking any of the fun away. For starters, it always helps to go with them and watch them as they knock on every door. It also helps to establish trick-or-treating ground rules beforehand, so your children know not to run away from you or go inside any houses or cars.

Here are six ways you can ramp up your trick-or-treating safety this Halloween—for you, your kids and everyone else too. 

1. Stick to a Pre-Planned Path. Walk the route you’re going to trick-or-treat this year with your kids prior to All Hallow’s Eve. Pick a well-lit path that’s familiar to your little ones. That way, if anyone gets separated they’ll have a sense of how to get home. If you can, avoid busy roads or areas where children have to walk near moving traffic. 

If you have big kids that are ready to trick-or-treat on their own, establish a safe route for them in advance. There’s also truth to safety in numbers: the bigger the group your kid goes with, the safer they’ll be. 

2. Have Your Kiddos Wear Glow Sticks. When you go to pick up a 5 lb. bag of candy to hand out, grab a few glow sticks too. No matter how unique your kid’s costume is this Halloween, there could be a million other neighborhood children sporting the same look. Keep track of your kid easily by having them wear a glow stick around their ankle, wrist or neck. This will be especially important when they’re crossing the street: Halloween is a deadly day for child pedestrian-related accidents, so make sure you can easily spot your kids from afar or when they’re in a crowd. Plus, parents and kids alike can agree that wearing a few glow sticks beats carrying around heavy flashlights any day. 

3. Inspect Your Kid’s Candy. Rule #1 when it comes to candy: feed your kids a healthy Halloween dinner before they hit the streets. That way, they won’t be tempted to eat all their candy before they get home. Your kids shouldn’t devour all their candy at once or they could get sick. If your kids want to munch on candy as they trick-or-treat, take some candy from your own house or let them eat only candy that’s been commercially packaged. 

And before your kid dives in, unwrap every single piece of candy that hasn’t been commercially wrapped (think rolled candies or taffies). If a bag of Skittles has a hole in it, toss it. If candy that has been commercially wrapped is still air-tight (like KIT KAT or a bag of M&Ms), they’re safe to eat.

Here’s what to look for when inspecting your children’s Halloween candy: 

  • Expiration dates 

  • Abnormal bumps or lumps

  • Holes 

  • Pieces of glass, metal, or razors

  • Handmade candy 

  • Hand-wrapped candy 

  • Baked goods 

  • Caramel apples 

  • Loose candy

Sifting through your child’s candy also helps you watch for any allergies your child may have. If your kid is severely allergic to peanuts, toss each Reese’s, Snickers or Payday you see before they get to it. 

4. Avoid Candles. Candles can be dangerous around Halloween decorations, and webbing and flammable costumes. When candles are placed inside pumpkins on front steps or walkways, children’s costumes can catch on fire—especially if they’re running excitedly past it. Instead of a real flame, use candles with powered batteries. They look just as cool, and they’re a whole lot safer. It’s also smart to check the flammability of your kid’s costume. Cotton, rayon and nylon are particularly flammable, so be on the lookout if your child has a nylon Superman Cape or cotton Princess dress.  

5. Use Lots of Light. Don’t be the dark, scary house children dare each other to walk up to. Fog machines and spooky lighting make for a chilling stop on trick-or-treaters’ path, but it can also be dangerous to walk on. For instance, If you have cobblestone, steps or missing pieces from your pathway, dark lighting makes it difficult for kids to see—even if they’re walking slowly and carefully. If kids are wearing floor-length costumes or shoes that are difficult to walk in, poor lighting can make them especially prone to tripping.  

Use lots of external lights to illuminate your pathway. You can position them in a way that doesn’t ruin your decorations. If trick-or-treaters come less frequently, opt for motion sensor lights instead. Don’t waste money by having the light on when no one’s around. All things aside, a well-lit house lets trick-or-treaters know that you’re game to hand out candy anyway.  

6. Do a Trunk-or-Treat. If your neighborhood is too dangerous for trick-or-treating, consider a trunk-or-treat! It’s safer, you can keep an eye on your kids, and depending on how big it is, you can let your kiddos roam free. If there isn’t a trunk-or-treat at your child’s school, you can search for trunk-or-treats in your area, on Facebook groups, or by asking around. Trunk-or-treats can be just as exciting—especially if your trunk is well-themed and decorated with love. Get candy and decorations as you would for your home, and then, as a bonus, match your costume to the theme of your trunk. Is your trunk Harry Potter themed? Rock the witch look or a Hogwarts student get-up. If it’s a spookier theme, go the scary route.

 

Elaine is a digital journalist whose work has appeared in a variety of online publications, including Women's Health Magazine, POPSUGAR, VentureBeat, and Austin Fit Magazine. Her writing focuses on how to use technology to stay safe and live sustainably. 

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Spooktacular Halloween Events for Kids in Miami

by Kate Loweth

Halloween is in the air and Miami residents are ready to celebrate. Get the kids in their costumes and head out to these pumpkin festivals, trick-or-treating events and costume contests for all ages. Get ready to celebrate Halloween with the best events and activities for kids in and around Miami!

photo: creativecommons

Monster Splash Halloween Bash
The Miami Seaquarium will be taken over by ghosts and goblins for three fun-filled days with special activities for people of all ages to enjoy! Check out the new Halloween-themed shows, trick-or-treating, rides, inflatable and more. Miami Seaquarium. Oct. 25-27. Event details. 

Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival
It’s pumpkins and palm trees! Coconut Grove puts on a fun-filled weekend for the family, together with scarecrows, cornstalk and haybale mazes, hillbilly hay rides, and of course pumpkin galore. Lots of activities for the kids, a Pumpkin Food Court Feast, thrilling carnival rides, bounce houses, a Pumpkin Beer Garden for mom and dad and of course your favorite fair foods. Regatta Park in Coconut Grove. Oct. 26-27. Event details. 

Zoo Boo
Families and kids ages 12 and under are invited to trick-or-treat through the zoo, participate in the Fangtastic Costume Contest, enjoy special performances, watch the animals get their Halloween goodies, and more! Included in zoo admission. Zoo Miami. Oct. 26-27. Event details. 

photo: Frost Science Museum

Spooky Science Monster Mash
The magic of science abounds for the 3rd Annual Spooky Science Monster Mash. Get ready for Halloween with a new potions show, Into the Cauldron, where chemistry helps us change the color of water, create bubbling concoctions and even make water disappear before your very eyes. Then dive below the surface of our aquarium habitats to view underwater pumpkin carving before joining us for a live animal encounter with one of our owls, all while learning about the conservation work we do here at Frost Science. Frost Science Museum. Oct. 27. Event details. 

Spooktacular Safe Streets Halloween Party
Don’t miss the spooktacular Halloween Block Party! The party will be from SW 72nd St. to 57th Avenue. There will be safe and fun trick-or-treating for the whole family. Enjoy a visit from Scooby Doo, free candy, games, prizes, music, inflatables and more. Oct. 31. Event details. 

photo: Steven Depolo via flickr

Halloween Boo Bash
Mall of the Americas’ annual Halloween Celebration returns with fun games with the friendly, bilingual Gigi the Witch. Trick-or-treat at participating stores. Mall of the Americas. Oct. 31. Event details. 

Spooktacular Halloween Party
Families will love trick-or-treating around the mall at this fun event. There will be face painting, costume contests, music, games and more! Dolphin Mall. Oct. 31. Event details. 

—Kate Loweth

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Candytopia SF: Your Complete Sweet Guide

by Kate Loweth

Unless you have been living a social media-free existence, you know that Candytopia has arrived in San Francisco and it is THE place to be. This immersive experience will bring you back to the Willy Wonka land of your childhood dreams and send you right into a sugar coma. We checked it out and think you should, too—here’s why!

The Scoop

Candytopia opened its San Francisco doors on September 6 after massive success in both Santa Monica and New York. The 16,000-square foot space is located on Market Street, right across from the Museum of Ice Cream. Scheduled to be in town through January 6, 2019, this pop-up candyland was tastefully curated by Hollywood Candy Queen Jackie Sorkin and realized by master fabricator Zac Hartog.

Tickets are available online and cost $34 for adults and $26 for children 4-12. Little ones 3 and under are free (no ticket needed). You choose a day and time for your ticket and entrances are staggered at 15-minute intervals to keep the crowds manageable. As you are welcomed into the exhibit, you are encouraged to touch the candy art as you wish. Licking is prohibited as you’ll get a mouthful of shellac.

Before you leave each room, make sure to crab the candy treat that is being given out. Pro tip: Bring a bag as there’s more free candy available than you and the kids can possibly eat while you walk through.

Traveling through the exhibit brings you from the Library (with the gummy bear-covered suit of armor) to the Art Gallery. Here you’ll find amazing portraits of iconic figures like Steve Jobs and the candy man himself, Willy Wonka. Pose next to the golden replicas of the Golden State Warriors’ winning trophies. Practice your best scream face and snap a pic in front of the depiction of Edvard Munch’s The Scream.

Want more info on the art? Peruse the Candy Facts card that is included with each art piece. Here you can find out how many gummy bears or jelly beans went into making the sculpture, how many hours it took to complete the creation and how many calories you would consume if you ate it!

A particularly fun spot for the kids to get rid of some of their candy-induced energy is in the Candy Wonderland room. Here you can swing from the ceiling and slide down a playhouse slide that’s sized just for little ones. Pop your head into the half spheres hanging from the ceiling for some auditory entertainment and rest for a bit on the candy-coated toadstools.

San Francisco Touches

Even if you have been to Candytopia in NYC or SoCal, this newest installation has a local flair that makes it unique. The Golden Gate Bridge see saw and the cable car installation are just a few of the spots you’ll want to check out.

Make sure you watch along the way for the opportunity to download the Candytopia app and have special photos sent to your phone (for free!). The Candytopia staffers are also more than willing to take that perfect shot for you so that you can include your whole gang in your Instagram story.

A Pool of Marshmallows

Perhaps the most fun for all ages is the pool of marshmallows that you can literally swim in. Don’t fear, these are foam replica marshmallows and not the sticky-sweet treats themselves. Take off your shoes and empty your pockets before you get in as it would be easy to lose your keys or cellphone in the fray. Staffers limit the number of people in the marshmallow pit to keep the crazy under control.

The Lowdown

Our verdict? Candytopia is a multi-sensory experience that kids of all ages (and parents, too) will thoroughly enjoy. There’s enough there (swings, slides, giant beach balls, CANDY TO EAT) to keep the wee ones busy and tons of interesting exhibits for the older crew. Follow these tips to make the most of your visit:

  1. Get your tickets now! Candytopia won’t be here forever and most weekends are already sold out.
  2. Strollers are not allowed to be used throughout the exhibit but you may park them inside while you go through.
  3. The only bathroom is located in the Art Gallery so use it then if you need to!
  4. You can only proceed through the exhibit in one direction so make the most of each room while you are there.
  5. Got long hair? Bring a brush as you will likely get a head full of confetti in the Rainbow Room (consider yourself warned).
  6. Arrive 15 minutes before your ticket time. It takes about an hour to make it through all of the rooms.
  7. The closest parking can be found at Jessie Square, 233 Stevenson Street. Walk through the alley towards the Contemporary Jewish Museum to get to Candytopia.

Candytopia
767 Market Street
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Online: candytopia.com

—story and photos by Kate Loweth

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