Forget about those little plastic eggs––Skittles has a better way to hide your kiddo’s Easter haul. Skittles Impossible Egg Hunt packets are here and these fun sized candies will make your backyard holiday happening into a super-sleuthing experience.
While the idea of teeny tiny bags of Skittles is far from new, this version of the beloved brand’s candy has a whole new twist. Unlike the snack packs you stock up on to give out at Halloween, these tasty treats come in a camouflaged container.
Photo: Walmart
Before you picture an army-esque camo fun-sized pack, think again. These Skittles are dressed up like your home’s natural environment. The packs are backed with pics of everything from green grass and tree bark photos to kitchen tile floor designs. Just hide the packs outside or in your house and get ready for a fun-filled family Easter egg hunt! That is, minus the actual eggs.
You can nab bags of the camo packs at retailers nationwide. Target and Target.com has 10.72 ounce bags of Skittles Impossible Egg Hunt fun size packs for $2.99 and Walmart.com has the goodies for $2.48 right now.
Learning along side my children is one of my favorite things about being a parent, and I live for discovering the new and the unusual with them. I love those who can laugh about life's many absurd and awkward moments.
I quickly dropped my bag and tossed the house keys on the counter as I raced to the loo. After having two kids, when nature calls…I gots to go.
No sooner had I sat down when I hear my 4 and 5-year-olds start shouting:
“Momma B come quickly! Momma B. MA B! MAAAAAA Beeeeee!”
Sweet Jesus, the whole bloody block heard these kids losing their damn minds outback.
I’m not done in the loo and now I’m irritated because I just wanted a second to myself so I could pee in privacy. So I holler back:
“Hang ON! And STOP SHOUTING!”
**Side note: If you haven’t shouted “Stop shouting” at your children, are you really parenting?
As soon as I make it outside I can immediately tell something serious is up because both dogs are jumping back and forth trying to get close to whatever my children are protecting. I race down the porch stairs and as I approach I hear a tiny high pitched squeal. Pulling the dogs away I discover what the commotion is all about.
A baby….I’m talking a baby bunny has managed to get his tiny little head stuck in some chicken wire attached to our fence (meant to keep grown rabbits outta my garden).
He looked so scared and helpless as his beady little black eyes looked at us, scared half to death trying to backup and free himself from the presence of three humans and two eager canines.
5-year-old Son: “It was Sherlock (our dog) who found him Ma B! He saved a baby bunny!”
4-year-old Daughter: “Oh isn’t he (the bunny) cute? He’s so adorable Momma B. We must help him!”
Before I go any further you should know I don’t particularly enjoy dealing with situations like this…because I’m kinda squeamish. Nevertheless, when you’re a parent and two little kids are watching you in order to learn how to handle situations like this in the future, you just gotta Alpha Up…which is what I did.
Me speaking calmly: “Stay here you two and sing to the bunny and tell it that everything will be OK. I’m gonna take the dogs inside and find some wire cutters.”
Kids: “OK.”
I dash into the basement and rummage through the mess of tools, cursing when I can’t easily locate the wire cutters. Then I remember I have a strong pair of utility cutters in the hall closet and I race back upstairs to get them.
The children were calmly and gently singing and speaking to the little bunny who had stopped squealing and trying to escape. It just lay in the grass with half of his teeny body in my neighbor’s yard and his wee little head in our garden.
I felt the rush of adrenaline as I neared the baby bunny. “You’re gonna be OK, little one. We will have you out of here in a second.”
After 5 snips with the utility cutters, I gingerly bent the chicken wire away from his itty-bitty neck just in case the bunny decided to dash forward and back again. I definitely would not have been able to handle any mess that involved bodily fluid…that’s where I draw the line.
Once freed, the bunny didn’t immediately run away. As a matter of fact, he hopped a few feet away from us up to the fenceline and tried again to squeeze through the chicken wire, obviously disoriented.
Me: “Come on kids. It looks like we are going to have to pick up the baby and return him to where we see the grown rabbits pop in-and-out of in the neighbor’s tall grass.”
And quick as a flash the kids and I raced to the front gate and were in the neighbor’s yard before you could say “Bob’s your uncle.” I scooped up the disoriented baby bunny and it immediately started squealing.
Out of the corner of my eye I caught a large rabbit bounding toward us. Once the grown rabbit spotted us it dashed to the other side of the neighbor’s yard.
I allowed both kids a quick stroke of the baby bunny’s velvety head before I whispered in its ear “Hurry home to your momma and papa little baby. I know they’re waiting for you.”
As I set the baby on the green grass, my children who were a few feet behind me started whispering encouraging things like:
“You can do it, bunny. Go find your family. We love you bunny.”
The baby bunny must have figured out where it was because he hopped straight toward the long grass a few feet away from where the grown bunny waited. The baby bunny paused for a second before disappearing into the safety of the long green grass.
As my children and I walked back to our house my wonderfully sensitive 5-year-old son looks up at me with tears spilling out of the corner of his eyes and says, “Momma B, thanks for being brave. I bet we saved another little boy’s Velveteen Rabbit. I love you.”
His words filled me up so completely that I too had tears spilling from the corner of my eyes.
It is my hope that I can always be brave for my children. That I am able to find the right tools at the right time and that I can save all the “baby bunnies” they find in the world. The reality is I won’t be able to save them from all the heartache this world holds. Nevertheless, I will find solace and comfort in knowing that I am modeling behaviors that they will someday emulate. As a parent, I always remember these wise words Winnie the Pooh so cleverly spoke:
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart…I’ll always be with you.” A.A. Milne
I am a 42-year-old biological mother of two young children in a same-sex relationship, a clinical psychologist with a specialty in neuropsychological assessment, a music therapist, a trainer of therapy dogs and ex-communicated Mormon from Indiana with a wicked sense of humor.
My mother is disabled. She has been paralyzed since she was 42 when her light-blue VW bus was struck by another vehicle while stopped at an intersection. Her body flew through the front windshield, and she was declared dead at the scene. She wasn’t. She had seven children all under 14 and we needed her. I was three.
I don’t remember much from that time, just a string of well-meaning neighbors and relatives and a lot of frozen lasagna. I do remember visiting her in the hospital on her birthday later that summer. My father had to sneak me in because no children were allowed in the ICU, and I hid under his trench coat so that no one would see me. When I saw her, she was immobilized in a hospital bed and was dressed from head to toe in pale green hospital apparel. She looked shockingly weak. I remember her smiling at me. I was afraid that she would never come home.
After months of hospitalization and rehabilitation, she did come home. The accident caused her to permanently lose the use of her right arm, left leg, diaphragm and neck mobility. Breathing was difficult, and she often became out of breath just from trying to read out loud to me. She couldn’t walk. She couldn’t cough. She couldn’t write. She couldn’t kneel. She couldn’t carry things. She couldn’t do many of the many activities that had comprised her life. And she had seven children, did I mention that?
Against all odds, as time passed, she started walking. I am not sure how it was possible, but my understanding is that she retrained different muscles in her body to compensate for those that could no longer work. At first, the walks were short, but they got progressively longer until eventually, she could poke along for several blocks. She learned to write left-handed. She learned to knit with one hand and has created countless beautiful pieces. She relearned to drive with a special knob on the steering wheel. She relearned to swim by holding on to little floaties. She is a fantastic cook and learned to utilize all manner of cool, one-handed contraptions to help her navigate her way in the kitchen. She seemed to refuse to give anything up. But all this was lost on me because I couldn’t remember her any different.
By the time I was six, I had become well-versed in pushing her wheelchair, and I would torment her by pushing her over grates that opened to the subway far below and laugh and laugh as she would shriek in fear. Sounds mean, right? But, to me, there was nothing wrong with her. I was just teasing, and she seemed to be playing along. Her disability was as normal as any mother’s slightly annoying, but endearing habit. As I got older I would push that wheelchair down bumpy, forested paths up and over all manner of tree roots and gravel. She would groan good naturedly and hold on tight with her good hand. She has been launched from that thing several times and is always trying to find a wheelchair more suitable for all-terrain travel. Just last year I pushed her through a jungle in Mexico so that we could see Mayan ruins. It can’t be comfortable, all that jostling and jarring, but she always wants to go.
I cut her no slack. She cuts herself no slack. Today she is 87.
I only have one memory of my mother before her accident. I am sitting on a metal folding seat, attached to the back of my mother’s black, clunky Schwinn. The seat is covered with a blue-plaid vinyl. It has little metal armrests and a small backrest. Not at all safe by today’s standards. My legs dangle freely below. I kick them forward and back. My mother’s legs are pedaling up and down, and her butt is in my face. It swishes a little, side to side. I don’t mind. Her efforts are creating a nice breeze, and the landscape whizzes by. Green grass, suburban lawns, huge maple trees. She is talking and laughing with my father who is on a matching bike.
I know there must be some connection between my mother’s internal drive and my quest to remain physical and engaged with life. She could have given up so many times, but she didn’t. She still doesn’t. She is hauling herself up to an island in Maine from Philadelphia for a visit again this summer. The trip involves a lot of logistics and not everything is handicapped-accessible in the little cottages she rents. Her mobility is decreasing and little tasks are getting more difficult, but she’ll be damned if she is going to stay home and sit around. She doesn’t want to miss out!
Beginning in August 2019, my son Oakley and I will cycle across America over the course of three months. Oakley is a spirited 15-year-old boy who has always struggled to fit into the confines of mainstream culture. I am Leah, his mother—and we are ready for adventure.
2019 is the year of the movie-themed birthday party! With so many reboots and sequels hitting theaters, it’s no surprise that birthday party themes are centered around lovable characters and powerful superheroes, in addition to some favorites like llamas and sloths. Keep scrolling to see the top trends for kids birthday parties that will make your planning a cinch.
Hosting a Mary Poppins-themed party is an idea that's practically perfect in every way. With the release of Mary Poppins Returns in December 2018, it's no surprise the theme will be popular in the coming year. Kite crafts, treats made with a spoonful of sugar and adorable invites like those we found at Kara's Party Ideas make this birthday party theme a must.
In March you can head to the big top to see Tim Burton's reimagined Dumbo, but in the meantime, you can make your carnival dreams come true with a Dumbo-themed party! Nutter Butter treats, lots of colors and let's not forget images of our favorite, big-eared elephant! You can deck your party out in style with printables from Where the Green Grass Grows.
Baby shark, do do do do do do...If you can't get the catchy tune out of your head, it may be time for a Baby Shark-themed party! We love this letterboard idea from Easy Lemon Squeezy and the simple decor items, like a stuffed shark and themed cupcakes. The predator of the seas never looked so adorable!
Superheroes are forever popular but this warrior woman has reached new heights. From favors to costumes to cakes, we love the easy-to-recreate ideas at from Cristy at Pretty My Party including the superhero photo booth and fun popcorn boxes!
The newest installment of The Secret Life of Pets 2 arrives in theaters summer of 2019 and that means it's the perfect time to throw a party with your fave characters like Max and Gidget! Make it easy on yourself and use Hostess snowball cakes like these from Tater Tots & Jello for a dessert that's both fun and festive.
If 2016 was the year of the woodland creature and 2017 the year of the flamingo, then 2018 is the year of the llama (and also, maybe the sloth). From sweet baby shower themes to full-on party games (pin the tail on the llama, anyone?) not since Anna Dewdney first began the beloved Llama, Llama series has this creature been so popular among the youngest members of our households. (We think Anna would smile about this trend.) We love this simple llama cake topper kit (ears, eyes and mouth) that transforms your theme instantly (some piping skills required).
You'll have to wait until November 2019 to catch Frozen 2 in theaters, but you won't have to let go of your dreams of hosting a Frozen-themed birthday party! Perfect for a winter party, blue-colored treats and plenty of your fave characters can top a dessert table like this from Two Sister Crafting for an instant theme. Don't forget the fun snowman crafts!
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World hits theaters in Feb. 2019 so it's no surprise that it will be a popular birthday theme this year. Vikings, dragons and beautiful outdoor imagery will make bring Hiccup and Toothless to life for your little's celebration, especially when using items from Square Party Printables!
Pokemon is still a thing and that's because of the new Detective Pikachu film. Deck your kiddos party after the beloved character and don't forget all the fun Pokeballs and treat bags, like these adorable catchalls from The Homes I Have Made.
The live-action Dora the Explorer movie comes into town in August 2019, and will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of explorer lovers! Creating a themed birthday party involving Dora and Swiper is easy as can be, by just incorporating shades of orange and purple, exploration props and don't forget a little español!
Sonic the Hedgehog is getting his very own movie, come November 2019 which means it's perfectly timed as a great birthday theme! Whip out the bright colors like blue, red and yellow like the party at Moms & Munchkins and get your hedgehog on!
Back-to-school season is here which means finding cheap and free entertainment to get you through the last few weeks of summer break is a must. (Because who has money to spend on activities when you’ve got new shoes and clothes to buy along with a school supply list a mile long.) That’s why we rounded up six parks that are worthy of the drive to get to and are guaranteed to keep everyone in your crew busy for hours. Read on and get ready to plan a day (or two!) at the park.
Forest Park – Everett, Wa
Perhaps the prettiest park in the city of Everett is also the "funnest.” Surrounded by soft wood chips, the colorful and interactive playground at Forest Park is sectioned for big kids and little tykes. Older teens and adults will enjoy the basketball, tennis and street hockey courts as well as the baseball field. There is also a lot of green grass to spread out on for sunbathing or listening to one of the free music concerts if you’re lucky. To cool off, enjoy a well-shaded walk through the forest or bring your little rug rats to the water playground (open May-September). Another great feature during the summer months is the Animal Farm. Open daily (June 24-August 20, 2017), kids can get up close and personal with ponies, pigs, goats, rabbits and ducks. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted.
802 E. Mukilteo Blvd.
Everett, Wa 98203
Online: everettwa.gov
Pack a Lunch
All six of these destinations make for great picnics areas, with or without a table. Don’t worry about being too fancy either. Pack some sandwiches or some lunch meat and cheese sticks and let the Littles roll their own lunch.
Pack a Few Extra Supplies
You can never have too many wet wipes and paper towels on hand for whatever you kids might get into. Also, think about sunscreen, Band-Aids and anything that might spoil your day if you have to leave early.
Pack Extra Clothes
Living in Seattle is unpredictable and with most of these parks, there is a good chance you’ll get wet. Be sure to pack a towel and a hoodie (in case it gets chilly) and a change of clothes is always a good idea.
Does your family have a favorite park to visit during the summer months? Tell us in the comments below.
Chicago’s unique vocabulary and insider references could fill up an entire dictionary. We figured it was time for an addendum just for you parents out there. Here’s a lesson in local lingo for Moms and Dads.
Dan Ryan Everywhere else: Common names for dudes. In Chicago: The clogged interstate where your little one conveniently decides to have meltdowns or diaper blowouts during rush hour.
Wiggleworms Everywhere else: Kids that can’t sit still, no matter how many candy bribes their parents offer. In Chicago: Old Town School of Folk Music’s music- and puppetry-filled classes that get babies and toddlers shaking their thang.
photo: Old Town School of Folk Music
The Jewels Everywhere else: Precious gems. In Chicago: Where you buy your groceries. Replace “The” with “Da” on the South Side.
Cubs & Sox Everywhere else: Crosstown teams that typically need minor miracles to win. In Chicago: A fandom choice you make for your child at birth. Switching sides or choosing Wisconsin is grounds for disownment.
photo: courtesy of a Red Tricycle reader
Babies, Tots n’ More Everywhere else: What you see at a zoo, park or Yo Gabba Gabba! concert. In Chicago: The twice-yearly consignment sale that’s so big, Moms have gone in and come back out hours later with bouncy seats, strollers and enough clothes to dress a small village.
The Bean Everywhere else: What’s usually left ignored on a kid’s dinner plate. In Chicago: The shiny silver sculpture that your child left a nose print on, just before you took a family selfie.
NPN Everywhere else: A acronym for what sounds like some big fancy corporation. In Chicago: A warm group of parents (Neighborhood Parents Network) that plan events for learning and fun.
The El: Everywhere else: The 12th letter in the alphabet. In Chicago: The elevated train system you take with your kids — but only while clinging to hand sanitizer like it’s the key to the universe.
Bubbles Everywhere else: What you can blow using soapy water and a wand. In Chicago: Lincoln Park’s magical play space and education center that delights parents through the baby and toddler years. (See also: Little Beans Cafe, Purple Monkey Playroom, Kidville, Sod Room.)
photo: Bubbles Academy
Polar Vortex Everywhere else: Something very cold. In Chicago: Something very, very, extremely, overwhelmingly, need-three-snowsuits-and-omg-my-eyelashes-are-frozen cold.
Sue Everywhere else: What you do when you want to take somebody to court. In Chicago: The large bony T.rex that greets you in the lobby of The Field Museum.
photo: Kelly Aiglon
Magnet Everywhere else: A piece of iron that attracts other iron-containing objects. In Chicago: The type of school you become obsessed with getting your kid into when he or she is still in utero.
The Suburbs Everywhere else: Big yards, green grass, good schools, peace and quiet. In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “way out there” and “the country” to city parents.
The City Everywhere else: Awesome architecture, exciting sports, beautiful lake, amazing museums. In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “way out there” and “date night Mecca” to suburban parents.
Oak Park & Evanston Everywhere else: Suburbs on the west and north side. In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “still the city — really, we swear” to parents that live there.
In the heart of Beverly Hills even the parks get a little nip & tuck. Between Spalding and Roxbury on Olympic Blvd, for decades Roxbury Park has been the slightly staid go-to for local playdates. But with tired sand and exhausted equipment, it was time for a little work. Renovation finally complete, the Roxbury Park reveal is ready for it’s close up, and once you get there, you won’t want to leave.
Not Just A Pretty Face
Yes, the place looks fabulous: the high tech towers and twirls and slides and spinning wheels are beautiful and irresistible, but beyond looking cool, much thought went into their creation. These monkey bars and intermittent rock walls were researched and built to create not just a safe and easily accessible means of creative climbing, turn taking and kid collaboration, but to promote health and well-being through challenges that encourage making their mini-muscles work to conquer that wall or wiggle their way to the top. It’s a playground for mind & body, and building the ability to use both together.
The Future’s So Bright…
…they put up shades! In addition to Mother Nature contributing her part (the canopy of trees are ever so strategic, the purple blossoms ever so pretty), now there’s a host of shade sails to supplement it. Sunblock, hats, always a smart move. But in that rare instance that mom forgets (not you, but some other kid’s mom), the park has you covered. Literally.
Some Sand In, Some Sand Out
If you hate that moment of coming home from the park and recreating the sandbox in the entryway as soon as they take off their shoes, this new climbing area is for you. The once sand foundation has been upgraded with a rubberized surface, making it not just a cleaner place to play, but one that promises cleaner homecomings.
Until they find the new sand and water table. Complete with sand digger. Ah, well. Maybe a clean entryway is overrated.
We Can See You From Right Here
Lots more seating has been provided around the perimeter. For those moments when they’re safely exploring their upward mobility and parents can actually take a load off, the bench is waiting. Coming with coffee isn’t a terrible idea.
To Everything Turn, Turn, Turn
Add this to the list of why it’s great to be a kid. Between the new tippy twirl tire for a whole gang, those little tulip seats for one, and the triangular wheels where they can stand and spin round and round and round again, kids can go for hours. But with all that spinning, you may need a Dramamine just to watch.
Climb, Slide, Swing, and Spin
The Roxbury revamp has gone fairly futuristic. Twisty jungle gyms. Slinky slides. Much more in the monkey bar department. And swings that match the new millennium; 16 in total, with12 big kid kinds and 4 little buckets. That keeps kids of all ages happy, and they never have to wait in line for a turn.
Plenty of Parking
This park boasts possibly the most (and inexpensive) parking in Beverly Hills. There is plenty of parking around the park perimeter (take the alley that runs along the west side of the park), with 20 min for $0.25 meters available as far as the eye can see. There’s also metered parking available on Roxbury south of Olympic, and in a small lot behind the community center. Still can’t find a spot? Try Olympic Boulevard, but mind those parking signs.
So What’d They Do With all The Old Stuff?
It all got donated to Kids Around the World, where the old equipment got re-purposed to parks in the Philippines and Ecuador. This upgrade comes with multiple upsides.
Roxbury Park kept all the other assets fully in tact: the 11 sprawling acres (in the city!) of rolling green grass, four tennis courts and a hitting wall, lawn bowling, croquet, putting greens, a baseball diamond and a soccer field, a basketball court and sand volleyball, too. But now with up and coming shaded picnic pavilion, infinite climbing courses, twirls, whirls, and enough swings for the whole gang to hang…prepare to plant yourself and leave only when the kids make you. Maybe pack lunch. Heck, pack dinner while you’re at it.
Roxbury Park Playground
471 South Roxbury Dr.
Beverly Hills
310-285-6840
Park hours: Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
Online: beverlyhills.org/exploring/cityparks/roxburycommunitycentermemorialpark
It’s hard not to take pride in our city and even harder not to love being a parent here. The weather is never too cold or too hot and we get to take impromptu snow days when Mother Nature decides to “dump” a couple inches on us. We’re home to the best summers, green grass year-round (see, all that rain pays off!), and enough family activities to guarantee we’re never bored. In the spirit of being thankful, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on what else makes our city the best place to live for both kids and parents.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
1.We can always find plenty of convenient drive-thru coffee stands to nurse our sleep deprived morning hangovers.
5. We can find an awesome park on nearly every street corner.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
6.We’re just ‘bout that action boss and home to the Super Bowl Champions. Being the 12th man never felt so good!
7. We don’t fear wasting money on our kids’ hard to predict appetites thanks to restaurants that offer free kid’s meals.
8. We can shop ‘til we drop at a plethora of locally owned boutiques and gift shops.
9. We have the best of all things outdoors and with a quick drive can easily hike in the mountains, play at the beach, or boat on the lake. Becoming one with nature is a cake walk.
10. Speaking of cake, when your sweet tooth comes a callin’, there’s no shortage of places to get cupcakes, cookies or candy.
12. We’re proud to be one of the fittest cities in America and know how to get our workout on.
13. We have some of the best views hands down. A city with views? Yes please!
14. We can (and do) engulf ourselves and our mini-mes in culture. Between the Seattle Symphony, the Pacific Northwest Ballet, the Seattle Children’s Theater, and museums, we’ve got the arts covered.
15. We’ve mastered the art of walking and doing it with strollers, toddlers, and diaper bags in tow.
Nestled along the bay in downtown San Diego with its picturesque views, cobblestone walkways and seaside charm, Seaport Village is the perfect place to spend the day. Despite being a favorite destination among tourists, local families flock to Seaport Village during the week and on the weekends for the food, fun and stores. With over 50 unique shops, 13 casual eateries, and four upscale restaurants (just in case your kiddo is that well-behaved!), free entertainment, and tons of beautiful green grass for picnics and kite flying, Seaport Village offers the best of San Diego.
When To Go Seaport Village is open every day from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. While the weekends are busier, that’s when you’ll find the most free entertainment. However, to avoid the crowds, swing by on a weekday. You’ll still find plenty to do, particularly if you pack a picnic lunch or bring a kite.
How To Get There Located in downtown San Diego at West Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, Seaport Village is just a five minute drive from the I-5 (coming from either direction). The boardwalk that runs along the bay (and along Seaport Village) connects to the USS Midway Museum, so if you’re already out for a day of Midway fun, consider walking down to Seaport Village, as it’s just one-half mile away. It’s a beautiful and easy walk. As far as parking goes, Seaport Village has its own parking lot. If you make any purchase over $10 and have your parking ticket validated, parking is just $3 for the first 2 hours and $2 every 30 minutes thereafter. Non-validated parking is just $8 per hour (or part thereof). You’ll also find some nearby metered parking, but remember that downtown meters are $1.25 per hour with a two hour max.
What To Do Do not miss the antique carousel that dates back to 1895. It runs all day and costs just $2 per ride. The line is never too long and even when you see a large group of kids waiting for a turn, don’t leave! With 54 horses (and other animals), you’ll never wait longer than a few minutes.
Young kids love to stroll along the bay and look at the boats and birds. Seaport Village features over four miles of cobblestone walkways that are dotted with water features and lots of ducks. If you come at the right time of year, you’re sure to see baby ducks and really, who doesn’t love little chicks?
The huge spans of green grass are perfect for picnics and kite flying. Pack up a quick lunch for you and the kiddos, bring a blanket and enjoy. Even if you’re not the kite-flying type, you’re almost certain to see plenty of other people flying kites, so watch the show. On the weekends, many artists work at Seaport Village, including a face painter, a balloon artist and a caricature artist. Handfuls of unscheduled street performers also set up shop to entertain. Check out mimes, musicians, dancers and more.
Kids will love browsing in some of the specialty shops, such as Apple Box, where they can find unique, one of a kind wooden toys. Take a break from the sun and celebrate the holidays by visiting Mistletoe, then test drive a relaxing hammock at Swings & Things. And don’t miss Kite Flite, an awesome place to buy kites -they’ll even let you “fly before you buy,” right outside the door in the San Diego bay breeze.
Seaport Village keeps a monthly calendar, where you can find out what’s happening as far as special events. Several annual events take place as Seaport Village, such as the Spring Busker Festival, Thanksgiving Dinner and more. The Surfin’ Santa, dressed in his board shorts and flip flops is a holiday favorite among the kiddos. While the dates vary slightly each year, these are annual activities that you can always plan to attend.
Where To Eat If you’re not the picnicking type or don’t have time to pack a lunch, Seaport Village has plenty of places to eat that work for kids. For pizza lovers, try Assagio Pizza Pasta Plus. Or, if your kids prefer burgers, the San Diego Burger Company serves up fantastic burgers (including turkey burgers and veggie burgers) and fries. For healthier fare, the Village Cafe offers yummy sandwiches, salads, and soups If you’re craving a snack, grab a big soft pretzel to share at Wetzel’s Pretzels. Sweet treats from Ben & Jerry’s or Seaport Village Cookie Company are sure to delight your little ones!
What’s the Cost?
Your trip to Seaport Village can cost as little as a few bucks if you score metered street parking or as much as the cost of lunch and a few balloon animals (or a ride on the carousel). If you plan on buying lunch, expect to spend at least $8 per person for the most part.
Insider’s Tip If you’re planning on a Ben & Jerry’s treat for the whole family, order the kids scoop. It’s almost the same size as the small but you’ll save a few bucks (and a few calories). For a low key day, come Monday through Thursday, but if you’re in it for the entertainment, stop by on a weekend.
Seaport Village
849 West Harbor Dr.
San Diego, Ca
619-235-4014
Online: seaportvillage.com
What’s your favorite thing to do in Seaport Village?
