These kids’ water bottles are backpack must-have

Of all the things that should always be in your bag, car, or backpack, a good leak-proof water bottle is on the top of the list. After all, from the classroom to soccer practice, your kids go hard and need lots of hydration. With so many options out there, it’s important to find the best kids water bottles and with that, we mean the leak-proof kind! We looked everywhere and came up with the best picks. See them all below.


a picture of one of the best kids water bottles from b.box

b.box Tritan Water Bottle

$17 BUY NOW

The unique triangle grip on this award-winning leakproof water bottle is perfect for tiny hands. Kids making the move from a sippy cup to a big kid bottle will have no problem with the easy-flow silicon straw, the handle makes getting the bottle from the car to class a breeze, and it's available in eight different color combos.


Contigo offers one of the best kids' water bottles that are leak-proof
Contigo

Contigo Trekker

$13+ BUY NOW

We love Contigo, and this sleek model is one of the reasons why. Available in bright orange or blue, its patented auto-seal lid is 100% leak- and spill-proof. It’s BPA-free and you can even wash it in the top rack of the dishwasher.


Hydro Flask

Hydro Flask Kids 12oz Wide Mouth Bottle

$30 BUY NOW

For ages 3 and up, this water bottle is the perfect 12oz size for little ones. From school to hikes to around the house, the Kids Wide Mouth Bottle from Hydro Flask goes any and everywhere. Available in 4 colors.

Water Bottles for Big Kids

EcoVessel has one of the best kids water bottles
EcoVessel

Frost Insulated from EcoVessel

$20 BUY NOW

Your beverage of choice will stay cold for hours in this insulated water bottle from EcoVessel. Choose from fun prints like unicorns, butterflies, rockets and more. An inner silicone straw makes drinking easy.


Caden Lane has one of the best kids water bottles you can personalize
Caden Lane

Caden Lane Personalized Water Bottle

$29 BUY NOW

It's so much fun to have their name on their stuff, and Caden Lane delivers. Pick from a ton of fonts and styles so you can match their personal style!


Boxlunch has a fun Star Wars bottle that is one of the best kids water bottles
BoxLunch

Star Wars R2-D2 Costume Water Bottle

$25 BUY NOW

Star Wars is definitely not going anywhere, and each new generation gets to rock new swag. We're loving this classic 17oz water bottle in the style of their favorite droid.


Polar Bottle

Polar Bottle Kids Insulated Water Bottle

$12+ BUY NOW

Offered in nine different color combos, this simple but effective water bottle is insulated, easy to clean and easy to carry, making it perfect for active kids.


Kleen Canteen is one of the best kids water bottles
Klean Kanteen

Klean Kanteen

$18 BUY NOW

Small and lightweight, this durable 12 oz. bottle with a soft silicone spout is the natural progression from a sippie configuration. It fits into just about any cup holder, stroller or car seat, and its large-mouth design fits ice cubes and makes cleaning simple. Go with the leak-proof Loop Cap option to prevent spills in lunchboxes or backpacks—or upgrade to the Sport Cap for older toddlers. Baby bottles can even transition to snack canisters with the use of any of Klean Kanteen’s wide caps!


best leakproof waterbottle circkul
Cirkul

Cirkul

$25 BUY NOW

Help your kids stay hydrated with this fun water bottle from Cirkul that combines a flavor cartridge system. With more than 40 flavors to choose from (made with all-natural flavors, no colors or dyes, and zero calories or sugar) and a customizable flavor intensity dial from 1-10, Cirkul is providing a personalized element to water that has never existed before. Customize with your kid's name so that you know it will come home at the end of the day.

Water Bottles for Tweens, Teens & Adults

best leakproof waterbottle owala
Owala

Owala FreeSip Bottle

$28 BUY NOW

Sometimes you feel like sippin’, other times swiggin’. With both a built-in straw and a wide-mouth opening, FreeSip lets you choose (read: best of both worlds). The push-button-open, keep-it-clean lid means you’ll never have to touch the drinking surface. Add to that an integrated carry loop and your choice of vacuum-insulated stainless steel or BPA-free Eastman Tritan plastic and you’ll be good to go—hydrated like a champ.


Pottery Barn Kids

LoveShackFancy Garden Party Slim Damask Water Bottle

$35 BUY NOW

Pretty and dishwasher-safe? What can't this Pottery Barn water bottle do? 17oz of hot or cold beverages transport easily thanks to the secure lid and convenient handle.


Hot Topic

Strawberry Cow Milk Carton Water Bottle

$15 BUY NOW

How cute is this milk carton water bottle? This trendy K-Pop-inspired bottle is sure to become one of their favorites.


best leakproof water bottles simple modern water bottle
Simple Modern

Simple Modern Water Tumbler

$17+ BUY NOW

This vacuum-sealed double-wall water bottle comes in lots of colors. It's dishwasher safe (top rack, please!), plus it's rust-repellent and keeps water cold for up to 24 hours. Choose from 14oz-64oz bottle options!


best leakproof waterbottles chilly's
Chilly's

Chilly's Water Bottle

$33+ BUY NOW

These water bottles have double-wall insulation to help keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours (or hot for 12 hours). Made from rust-resistant stainless steel, the screw-top lid means no leaks, and it's lightweight so it won't weigh your kiddo's backpack down.


Welly has one of the best kids water bottle
Welly

Welly Traveler

$40 BUY NOW

The sleek design of the Welly Bottle traveler means both you and your tween might feel cool sporting it while out and about. The handle makes for easy carrying, plus it's got a removable infuser you can use to add a little flavor to your kids' water. It's double-walled, with vacuum insulation and the bamboo bottom gives it an eco-feel you don't see many places.


Mizu

Mizu M5 Water Bottle

$16+ BUY NOW

The 17 oz. M5 slimmer version of the popular M8. It's a single-wall, stainless steel bottle, with 14 different colors to choose from. You can also choose a color for the twist cap. It's small enough to stash in backpacks or in car seat cup holders, but it's large enough to carry enough H20 to get the kids through the day.

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

This SNL Macy’s Ad parody should be required yearly holiday viewing

You’re not the only parent dreading holiday outfit season—and Saturday Night Live is here to prove it. In this classic short, which should be required viewing by moms and dads every year, SNL parodies a Macy’s Christmas clothing sale commercial, revealing what everyone really thinks about those not-so-comfy kids’ clothes—and maybe about their spouses, too. This one’s NSFK (Not Safe for Kids) so watch it when you’ve got 2 minutes to yourself. LOL.

While you’re at it, keep the SNL hits coming with viewings of “I Got a Robe,” the forever mom holiday anthem, and the “Best Christmas Ever” skit, in which Matt Damon and Cecily Strong flashback to the hot mess that was their supposedly “perfect” and “magical” day.

After opening with men’s blazers and women’s cashmere sweaters, the faux ad kicks up the comedy as the voiceover says, “And for your little ones, Macy’s has the best of fashions that will have them saying…” Here’s where the cute kiddos go full-on into pure Christmas-time tantrums. One little girl stomps up and down, shouting, “It’s too hot!” A boy snarks, “It itches,” and a baby—well, the half-dressed tot just cries (how we feel this in our bones).

The mock-mercial previews just about every rewarding experience that awaits you, including, “wrestling your wiggly little monster into winter clothes” and “Merino sweaters that won’t fit over his head.” The parody goes on to advertise “hard, shiny shoes that hurt,” “all holiday rompers she’ll never get off in time,” “kids’ jackets so big and thick, they won’t fit in their car seats anymore,” “snow boots that are so hard to put on it will strain your marriage,” and, of course, “shirts with the wrong Frozen princess.”

If you’re in the heat of the holiday hustle, we suggest that you take a break and watch this so you can laugh-cry about the fun, festive tradition.

Frozen carbon dioxide, a.k.a. dry ice, is frozen at a temperature of negative 109 degrees Fahrenheit

Experimenting with ice is cool. But dry ice experiments are even cooler! Unlike the ice cubes in your freezer, dry ice doesn’t melt into liquid. Instead, these blocks sublimate, which means instead of transforming from a solid to a liquid, dry ice goes from a solid to a gas. With the proper precautions, this type of science experiment for kids is safe—so grab gloves and tongs, open a window or take the CO2 outdoors, follow these guidelines from the National Weather Service, and check out these awesome dry ice experiments. 

Blow Up a Balloon

dry ice science experiment from Science Kiddo
Science Kiddo

The air from your lungs isn’t the only way to blow up a balloon. This chilly experiment from Science Kiddo helps your budding scientist explore the properties of dry ice. 

 

Build a Volcano

dry ice science experiment from Life with Moore Learning
Life with Moore Learning

Check out this awesome overflowing dry ice volcano experiment from Life with Moore Learning! As if this isn’t enough fun, you'll also get a step-by-step guide to help your kids compare regular ice with dry ice and other freezing explorations.

Plan a Potion

dry ice experiments
iStock

Whether you want to make a witch’s brew for your family's Halloween monster bash or you just want to mix up a cool (literally) concoction, Our Best Bite’s Mad Scientist Potion has everything you need to make a mocktail that’s overflowing with fog.

Related: 70+ Easy Science Experiments for Kids to Try at Home

Find Fog—Magically

Jeff Kingma via Unsplash

Make your own at-home outdoor fog machine with two ingredients—dry ice and hot water. Remember, dry ice doesn’t melt into a liquid. Instead, it sublimates or turns into a vapor. Place blocks of dry ice into a glass or bucket of hot water and then stand back and watch as the fog pours across your yard!

Put Out a Candle

put out a candle as part of a dry ice experiment
Sixteen Miles Out via Unsplash

Can dry ice help extinguish a candle quickly? Your littles can easily blow out their bday cake candles, but have they ever used dry ice to make a flame go away? Head over to Life with Moore Learning for the how-to steps to this easy science exploration.

Make a Bubble Ball

Aaron Burden via Unsplassh

How can your kids make a crystal ball? Gather a few pieces or pellets of dry ice, a bowl, dish soap and a kitchen towel. Put the dry ice into the bowl, add hot water and watch the fog show begin. Even though this is exciting, it’s not where the experiment ends. Dip the dish towel into a soapy solution, and spread it around the rim of the bowl. Gently pull the soap-soaked towel across the bowl and watch as a ball-like bubble emerges in front of your eyes. 

Compare and Contrast

Dry Ice Experiments
Erica Loop

How does dry ice melt? The answer isn't regular ice. While you might already know this, your child doesn’t. Freeze water, juice, soda, milk, and any other liquid you want. Put the frozen liquid cubes on plates and create a comparison plate with dry ice. Watch each ice option carefully. Your child can jot down what happens to each piece of ice and when. 

Related: It’s Alive! Gross (But Cool) Science Experiments for Kids

Inflate a Glove

Diana Polekhina via Unsplash

If you have boxes of plastic or latex gloves hanging around your home, forget about cleaning. It’s time to put these gloves to scientific use, as they are a great substitute for balloons. Drop a shred of dry ice into the glove, tie the end and watch it magically grow. Hint: Don’t use too much dry ice for this experiment. A pellet will do. Overdoing it with the frozen CO2 might create too much gas, causing the glove to burst.

Bubbles and More Bubbles

Cristian Palmer via Unsplash

You’ve covered dry ice with water and watched it fog. But what happens if you put the frozen CO2 into a bath of bubbles? Use your kiddo’s paddling pool or fill the sand table with a water and bubble solution or dish soap mix. Ask your child to predict what will happen as the dry ice sublimates. Observe the bubbles as the CO2 gas fills the water and moves into suds.

Magical Disappearing Ice

dry ice experiments
iStock

When regular ice melts it leaves behind a puddle, but the same isn't true for dry ice. Again, the sublimation process causes it to turn into a gas state. Help your child learn more about the states of matter with easy observation-based science exploration. Place a piece of dry ice in a bowl outside on a warm day or in the sun. Ask your child to predict what they think will happen to the dry ice. Go back later in the day and take a look at the bowl. Like magic, the ice is gone, and nothing is left behind. Discuss what happened. Your child can hypothesize where the ice went and why there is no water in the bowl. 

Related: 6 Incredibly Easy Rainbow Science Experiments

 

 

Insider tips to beat the crowds at your favorite grocery stores

Ah, grocery shopping: one of those necessary evils because hey—we all like to eat, right? It’s never easy piling the kids into the car, trying to remember if you need besides milk or bread as you wander the aisles… If only you knew when the best time to shop at the grocery store was. Well, we’ve got the answer for you!

Whether you’re all about Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger or Aldi, we’ve got you covered for the best times to do your grocery shopping and save big. Get the scoop below.

Whole Foods

If you're looking to save money, Whole Foods Markets typically start their sales on Wednesdays. That means if you picked up a sale item on Monday, when you go back the following Thursday you may find it at a higher price. So take advantage of the deals when your local store has them.

When it comes to missing the rush, the best time to shop totally depends on where you live and your local store's traffic. City-based stores tend have the largest crowds at lunch-time. But suburban stores have a bigger rush in the evenings and on weekends.

If you REALLY want to beat the crowds, stay home. That is, stay home and order your groceries for delivery. Whole Foods Market is constantly expanding the list of cities that are delivery eligible.

Trader Joe's

Weekends at Trader Joe's: yes we know what it's like trying to get a prime parking space (or any space at all). Given that you probably already try to avoid TJ's on a hopping Sunday afternoon, when should you head out to get your fave fun frozen foods?

According to a store manager in a Reddit Ask Me Anything thread, Tuesday and Wednesday early mornings are the best times to shop at your local Trader Joe's.

Costco

When should you shop the mega warehouse store? That depends on where you live, but according to a Business Insider interview with Costco employees, definitely skip weekend shopping trips. These are the busiest times, making the stores the most crowded.

Even though the weekdays may equal a quicker shopping trip, there are better times than others. Evenings also tend to draw the largest crowds. In other words, weekday mornings or early afternoons are the best times to shop at Costco.

Kroger

Like Whole Foods, Kroger brand stores (including Baker's, King Soopers, Ralphs and Smith's), also start sales on Wednesdays. Kroger store employees typically stock the shelves late at night and in the early a.m. hours. That means you might want to consider shopping in the morning.

If you want to save even more, wait until Friday to shop. Kroger's free Friday download lets you download a coupon for one free item on Fridays only.

Aldi

Hmm. It looks like Wednesdays take the cake when it comes to new sales and new stuff.  Wednesdays are THE day for new items. It's also the day when the Aldi Finds section gets new additions and seasonal picks. That said, some stores don't stick to the Wednesday debut. Depending on where you live, new items may come out on Sundays.

 

Well, it looks like the best days to shop at your most-loved stores are…any day? While Wednesdays are big for savings and debuts, it all depends on where you live and when you absolutely need to shop. The milk won’t shop for itself––unless you’re doing grocery pickup.

 

This is a simple and delicious recipe the kids can help make

30-minute meals are the best. This recipe comes together quickly, which means you can spend your evenings doing things that matter like building forts and playing hide-and-seek. In fact, we found that the longest part of the prep work for this pasta dish was getting our water to boil. Tell us below what you think of this pasta with peas and bacon dish!

Ingredients for Pasta with Peas and Bacon:

16 ounces fettuccine (or whatever pasta you prefer)
3 strips of thick-cut bacon
1/2 onion, chopped
1 (10-ounce) bag frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 lemon, juiced

Method:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Meanwhile, saute bacon in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until golden and crisp, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and break up into small pieces.

3. In the same pan, saute onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Add peas and garlic and saute for 3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, pasta, and bacon.

4. Moisten pasta with some of the reserved pasta water. Toss to incorporate, season with salt and pepper, if necessary, and serve, sprinkled with lemon juice.

 

recipe adapted from the Food Network

We’re partial to the fajitas and the baked chicken spaghetti recipes

Busy weeknights don’t have to equal fast food, especially when you own a pressure cooker. From healthy soups to savory tenderloin and spicy fajitas, these recipes and meal prep ideas are all about Instant Pot freezer meals that will take your daily dinners from drab to fab. Get ready to add a ton to your weekly recipe rotation.

Wild Rice Soup

wild rice soup is a good instant pot freezer meal
Pinch of Yum

Pinch of Yum's wild rice soup is just what the cold weather ordered. It is easy to freeze and even easier to make (try a vegetarian version or add chicken). It's comfort food that packs in veggies, spices and a healthy dose of flavor.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

The Salty Pot

Kid-friendly and packed with pineapple, The Salty Pot's Instant Pot sweet & sour meatballs get dinner on the table in a flash. It's simple to stow all the prepped ingredients into a bag and pull out just in time to add to your pressure cooker.

Shredded Beef Fajitas

Happy Money Saver

Happy Money Saver's recipe for shredded beef fajitas will quickly become a family fave. The meaty mixture cooks for 60 minutes in your Instant Pot and needs only a side of tortillas and lime before enjoying. 

Unstuffed Peppers

Adventures of a Nurse

Hearty and savory, these Instant Pot Unstuffed Peppers from Adventures of a Nurse are a quick one-pot meal. Rice, ground beef and peppers cook straight from the freezer for just four minutes, and dinner is done!

Apple Honey Pork Tenderloin

Meal Plan Addict

This dump-and-go freezer meal from Meal Plan Addict is great for any time of the year, but especially in cold weather months. Everyone will enjoy this savory dish; you can cook from frozen or pull out the ingredients the night before to thaw in the fridge.

Chili

Recipes From a Pantry

A fave for chilly nights or football games, this Instant Pot chili from Recipes from a Pantry is quick and to the point. Prepped meat and veggies can be thawed overnight and cooked up in just 15 minutes in your IP for a healthy and hearty weeknight meal. 

Vegetable Soup

Thriving Home

Whether you're a diehard vegetarian or just prepping for a Meatless Monday, this Vegetable Soup recipe from Thriving Home is packed with healthy ingredients no one can resist. Easy to prep, meal planning is a cinch with this tasty dinner. Get the full recipe from Thriving Home.

Cheesy Taco Pasta

Bake Me Some Sugar

Great for picky eaters and busy nights, this cheesy taco pasta dish from Bake Me Some Sugar is just what your weeknight ordered. Savory meat, adorable mini shells, cheese and lots of flavorful seasonings make this one-pot dish come together quickly. Just add a salad and dinner is done. 

Thai Chicken Thighs

Pressure Cooking Today

Are you looking for a flavor-packed dinner? Pressure Cooking Today's recipe for Thai chicken thighs is where it's at! Boneless chicken thighs and peanut sauce are just a few flavorful ingredients that can be frozen together then dumped into your pressure cooker. All you need to do is add a few fresh ingredients like green onions and peanuts.

Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Sparkles to Sprinkles

This savory pasta e Fagioli soup from Sparkles to Sprinkles is great for chilly nights. To prep, add all your ingredients except the pasta. When it's time to make dinner, just add in the pasta before cooking. 

Chicken Caesar Wraps

Foody Schmoody

This chicken Caesar wraps recipe from Foody Schmoody is perfect for a lighter meal. Frozen chicken is quickly cooked and shredded, then combined with yummy Caesar dressing before adding to a tortilla.

Taco Rice Casserole

A Taste of Madness

This tasty taco rice casserole from A Taste of Madness is such a versatile recipe. You can eat it for lunch or dinner!

Baked Chicken Spaghetti

Scrummy Lane

This baked chicken spaghetti is a delicious meal and the perfect comfort food. Get it from Scrummy Lane.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

A cup of hot cocoa is in order for you and your family when the temperatures drop, and we know the best hot chocolate spots in DFW

When the chilly weather finally arrives in North Dallas, there’s nothing quite like a hot chocolate to warm you up, especially after a day of local winter activities with the kids. Nothing feels better than heading inside after trekking around town and getting cozy. We scoured the metroplex in hopes of finding the best cups out there, and from rich drinking chocolate to a frozen version for warmer days, here’s where you’ll find the best mugs of hot cocoa in all of DFW.

1. La La Land Kind Cafe

With three Dallas locations, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy this cafe that employs foster kids after they’ve left the system to provide solid employment and the chance to learn life skills. Their hot chocolate is made with cacao and milk chocolate shavings, and there’s a large coffee menu as well. Snacks include all kinds of toast like avocado, jam, and hazelnut. 

Dates: Vary by location, check the website
Cost: $4

5626 Bell Ave.
Dallas

3330 Oak Lawn Ave.
Dallas

5600 W Lovers Ln., Unit 128
Dallas

Online: lalalandkindcafe.com

2. Ascension

One of the most popular coffee chains in DFW, this shop has an amazing cafe menu and even has a kids' menu that includes items like mac and cheese, French toast, and bacon + eggs + toast. Chose between regular hot chocolate or rich and creamy drinking chocolate, and—seasonally—their special Winter Spice Cocoa infused with warming spices. They also offer six flavors for frozen frappes including chocolate, vanilla, and caramel.

Dates: Vary by location, check the website
Cost: $4

200 Cresent Ct., #40
Dallas

1621 Oak Lawn Ave.
Dallas

14131 Midway Rd.
Addison

3121 Olympus Blvd.
Coppell

3625 The Star Blvd., #300
Frisco

1751 River Run, #151
Fort Worth

Online: ascensiondallas.com

3. Astoria Caffe

Choose from hot or frozen hot chocolate and add a shot of cinnamon for a Mexican-style hot cocoa, or order the peppermint hot chocolate. Grownups who are feeling a little naughty can even spike it with Don Q Gold Rum. This Dallas hot chocolate spot also has plenty of specialty coffees for adults, smoothies, and a menu that has breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Located on the square in Addison, there’s a park across the street, so grab a to-go drink and let the kids run.

Dates: Open Tue.-Sun.
Cost: $6

15701 Quorum Dr.
Addison
Online: astoriacaffe.com

4. Armor Coffee

Not only do they offer hand-crafted hot cocoa at Armor Coffee but there’s a cozy lounge with a fireplace and a great menu that includes things like bagels, avocado toast, Belgian waffles, and more.

Dates: Open daily
Cost:
$3-$4

190 E Stacy Rd., #408
Allen
Online: armorcoffee.com

5. Magic Cup Cafe

You can come get your bubble tea fix at Magic Cup Cafe but they also offer seasonal hot cocoa and coffee flavors like mint, coconut white mocha, and more.

Dates: Open daily
Cost:
$4

901 N. Jupiter Rd., #150
Richardson
Online: magiccupcafe.com/richardson

A child makes a silly face at the camera while sitting at a table eating and drink at the Bookclub Cafe
Gabby Cullen

6. Book Club Cafe

On the east side of DFW, the tastiest sips can be found at the Book Club Cafe. They offer 12 oz. and 16 oz. hot chocolates, a variety of flavored milk, and a menu filled with locally-sourced ingredients and freshly baked bread. There’s a family-friendly vibe, and, in the past, they've often had live music and other events at night. If you’re looking for something stronger than hot chocolate, be sure to order “The Benny.”

Dates: Open Mon., Tue. and Thu.-Sun.; closed Wed.
Cost: $5

107 E Kaufman St.
Rockwall
Online: bookclubtx.com

7. Buon Giorno

Have your hot chocolate made just how you like it; with milk, almond milk, or with added whip cream. There’s also a frozen hot chocolate if you want something colder. Pair it with a muffin, panini, or sweet goodies like brownies, biscotti, and cinnamon twists.

Dates: Open daily
Cost: $5

2350 Hall Johnson Rd.
Grapevine

500 W 7th St.
Fort Worth

Online: bgcoffee.net

8. Duino Coffee

Campfire hot cocoa and a tableside s’mores kit? Need we say more? Maybe the paninis or the Nutella-dilla will tempt you to head up to McKinney for an afternoon at this cozy coffee shop. There’s a front lounge area with magazines and games to boot.

Dates: Open daily
Cost: $3-$5

7650 Stacey Rd.
McKinney
Online: duinocoffee.com

From the zoo to the arboretum, these epic Dallas holiday lights displays will put you in the holiday spirit

Want to make your holiday season bright, literally? Add some twinkle to your evening with a visit to one of these nine epic Dallas holiday light displays. From drive-through lights at the zoo to downtown celebrations you can enjoy on foot, you’ll feel the joy of the season when you visit each one of these illuminated spots. Plus, you’ll find many of these locations offer dedicatedactivities for kids, which makes it possible to enjoy the wonder without once hearing the words “I’m booooored.” Whether you don’t want to get out of your car (pro tip: dress your kids up in their jammies to make it an extra-cozy experience!), prefer to stay inside, or are determined to explore the great outdoors, this list breaks down the very best—and brightest!—places to find well-lit Christmas events in DFW.

Drive-Thru Holiday Light Displays around Dallas

The Light Park Drive-Thru Light Show

Arlington's electric holiday extravaganza features millions of lights synchronized to music. All you have to do is don the holiday jammies, pack some hot chocolate and drive right through! It'll be an experience your kiddos won't soon forget.

Dates: Nov. 4-Jan. 1

1800 E Lamar Blvd.
Arlington, TX
Event details

Dallas Zoo Lights Drive-Thru

Cruise through a one-mile roadway—and through familiar parts of the Dallas Zoo—while marveling at more than one million lights in elaborate displays, silk-covered animal lanterns depicting all your Zoo favorites, an ice palace fit for a trio of penguins and so much more along the way.

Dates: Nov. 17-Jan. 1

650 S.R.L. Thornton Frwy.
Dallas, TX
Event details

Deerfield Holiday Lights

This Plano neighborhood is famous for going all out during the holidays! Spectators can park and walk amongst the houses or stay in the car and enjoy from there. If you are driving, the recommendation is to enter the neighborhood from the back via Qunicy Rd. You are welcome to park and walk through to see the holiday lights.

Dates: Dec. 1-30

Preston Rd. & Coit Rd.
Plano, TX
Event details

The Gift of Lights

Forth Worth's #1 light display is a drive-thru exhibit that's over two miles long! And, your ticket purchase helps to support charities like Ronald McDonald Home and Speedway Children's Charities.

Dates: Nov. 24-Jan. 1

3545 Lone Star Cir.
Fort Worth, TX
Event details

Related: Shop Here: 6 Independent Toy Stores that Dallas Parents Love

Indoor Holiday Light Displays around Dallas

Chris Ainsworth via Unsplash

Radiance! Featuring "Frozen"

Frisco's popular holiday event is back with an all-new "Frozen" Winter Carnival! To see the light show you'll park and then grab a Holly Jolly Trolley that'll take you through over one million lights. There are also a ton of wintery-themed activities like tubing, a snowball toss, holiday bumper cars and much more. 

Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 31

7300 Roughriders Trail
Frisco, TX
Event details

Head to the Christmas Capital of TX

Grapevine, Texas really knows how to do it up for Christmas. Sing along with the 40-foot community animated Singing Christmas Tree all Christmas long and check out all the lights! There are lots of activities included in this event so check the event details to find the ones your family will enjoy most.

Dates: Nov. 11-Jan. 10

Grapevine, TX
Event details

Christmas at the Gaylord

The resort's four-acre indoor atrium will be decorated with twinkle lights, trees and more. Don't miss snow tubing, breakfast with Charlie Brown and Friends, the Cirque Winter Wonderland show, a gingerbread making activity, and so so much more! It's not possible that the family wouldn't have a blast with so many wonderful options at the Gaylord Mariott this Christmas.

Dates: Nov. 11-Dec. 31

1501 Gaylord Trail
Grapevine, TX
Event details

Related: ‘Tis the Season for a Visit to a U-Cut Tree Farm

Outdoor Holiday Light Displays around Dallas

Holidays at the Arboretum

View the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden in all its holiday splendor with over 500,000 lights. Be sure to wander around the grounds to admire the 12 Days of Christmas exhibit, and don't miss the new musical tree! Holidays at the Arboretum are a wonderful time and you'll definitely find something to please everyone at this event. 

Dates: Select dates from Nov. 10-Dec. 31

8525 Garland Rd.
Dallas, TX
Event details

Vitruvian Lights—Addison

Vitruvian Park transforms into North Texas’ most spectacular holiday destinations during Vitruvian Lights when over 1.5 million sparkling LED lights are wrapped around more than 550 trees. Your kiddos will look on in awe, so be sure to bring them to this amazing event.

Dates: Nov. 25-Jan. 1

3966 Vitruvian Way
Addison, TX
Event details

 

If you can’t get to the wonderful world of Disney just yet, but really want to enjoy their cult-favorite Disney Dole Whip treats, you’re in luck. Earlier this year, the company released a look-a-like recipe for the famous Pineapple Dole Whip called the “Frozen Pineapple Treat.” So what exactly do you need to make one at home? Keep reading to find out.

Disney Dole Whip at home
Disney Parks

 

According to the recipe, you’ll need one scoop of vanilla ice cream, 4 ounces of pineapple juice, and two cups of frozen pineapple. Then add all to a blender, blend until smooth, and then add to a piping bag before swirling out the delicious Disney Dole Whip treat—because it has to look like it came straight from the ice cream machine, right?

Related: 37 Fascinating Disney Trivia Facts to Wow Your Kids

With rising food prices, there’s no doubt you’ve been trying to think of ways to shop smart when you head to the grocery store. If you’re determined to lower your bottom line, you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of ways to keep your wallet just as full as your cart—from using coupons to downloading grocery savings apps and more. Keep scrolling to find our savvy list of hacks on how to shop smart the next time you’re cruising the aisles.

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Shop online and do drive-thru pick-up. You might balk at the fee some grocery stores charge to bring the groceries to your car but consider the money you'll save by not wandering the aisles with kids who'll no doubt beg for every snack in sight?

Plan your meals.
To avoid over-buying on your next grocery run, plan your meals. Write out the days of the week and under each heading, choose what you’ll be eating and what ingredients you need so you can streamline (and save on!) your trip. Recovering Spender author and financial life coach Lauren Greutman puts things into perspective. "If we spend $25 on pizza every week, we're forking out an extra $1300 a year on takeout!"

Shop in stores where you know the layout. Quick trips to the grocery store can turn into a free-for-all if you don't know where everything is, especially when you are tired or in a hurry.

Stay away from pre-chopped veggies.
You may be tempted to reach for those containers of ready-chopped onions, celery, and carrots, but they also come with a higher price tag. According to consumerreports.org, you'll be paying almost double for that pre-prepped status. Instead, shop smart and opt for buying the entire vegetable and set aside time for chopping.

Start using the Flashfood App.
This app has partnered with grocery stores all over the country in hopes of eliminating food waste, plus, users can save up to $108 a month. How does it work? Download the app, and then search for a grocery location near you. Then you can choose and purchase discounted food items—you know, the items that have "just" reached their best buy date, and pick them up at designated Flashfood Zones in the store.

shop smart and go to the store late
Pexels

Shop during the quiet hours.
When the store is crowded with busy, tired folks and crying babies, all you want to do is get your shopping done. There's little chance of you taking the time to price compare or search for bargains. Instead, hit the aisles when fewer customers are around, and you'll feel less stressed to get a move on. Want to know what hours to avoid? The Time Use Institute states that the busiest hours of the day are 4 p.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays, and from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m or so on the weekends.

Go meatless.
If you’re shopping on a budget, consider adding Meatless Monday (or Tuesday or Wednesday) to your weekly meal rotation. You’ll save on one of the most expensive staples on your grocery list and you’re guaranteed to get in all of your greens! A study published in the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition found that vegetarians save up to $750 a year by going meatless.

Become a coupon clipper.
We’re not saying you need to audition for the next season of Extreme Couponing, but before you head to the store, do a quick online search for any coupons that will apply to the items on your grocery list. You’ll also want to check if your grocery store has its app. Many stores like Target and Kroger have their app with additional digital coupons you can use.

Download cashback apps.
As you’re looking for coupons on the items on your grocery list, take a few minutes to download cashback apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51. These apps allow you to earn a percentage or dollar amount back on certain items after you upload a photo of your receipt. And while they may be small amounts at first (25 cents back on any item, for instance), they add up quickly!

lady buying generic labels to shop smart
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Buy generic.
You probably have a few brands that you’ve used for years, but when it comes to everyday items like salt or flour, you can make your wallet a little happier by buying generic. 

Look up or down.
Did you know that supermarkets often stock the priciest items at eye level? When you’re looking to shop smart and find the best deals, remind yourself to look on those top and bottom shelves.

Buy in bulk.
If cheese is on your list, spring for a block. Grated cheddar is almost always more expensive. And, when a family staple, like chicken noodle soup, goes on sale 10 for $10, go ahead and load up! If you don't have room in the pantry, ask a store associate if you can still get the discounted price.

Don’t shop while hungry.
Heading to the store on an empty stomach? Do your budget a favor and eat first. Grocery shopping while hungry can lead you to buy much more than you need and make impulse purchases. Like Paco Underhill, author of Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping says, "more than 60% of what we buy wasn’t on our list."

shop smart and send the frugal person to the store
Pixaby

Send the most economic partner to the store. If one partner is more likely to use coupons, look for bargains or attempt to spend the absolute minimum amount possible, consider having that partner tackle the big shopping trips (quick weeknight trips don't count—those are anyone's game!).  

Buy frozen vegetables and fruit.
Depending on what’s in season, you can save a few bucks by buying your vegetables in the freezer section. Certain grocery stores like Trader Joe’s often have frozen veggies and fruit for under $2 so you can stock up!

Find bargains online.
In the days of Amazon Fresh and other online retailers, you can easily find food at bargain prices—you just have to know where to look. consumereports.org suggests buying the following non-perishable items online to save your hard-earned dollars: snack bars, coffee, baby food, pasta and more.

 

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