Even if it was a race to the finish to get out the door, these holiday outfits will definitely make you show up looking glowy and glam
Every year we swear we’re going to stress less this season, plan holiday shopping early, time it all just right, and float into holiday parties and get-togethers fully polished. And every year that doesn’t come close to happening. If you’re anything like us, you totally understand this scenario, so we decided to round up some holiday outfits to help you take care of the age-old question: “What am I going to wear?” so you can focus on other merry-making.
These holiday outfits are stunning, but they’re also practical, flattering, and wonderfully easy to throw on at the last minute. We know what it’s like to run around the house in sweat pants and an old college shirt, Velcro rollers barely hanging on, mascara on only one eye, helping everyone but yourself get ready to get out the door. With our picks, you won’t look like that’s how you spent the 45 minutes leading up to leaving. We also made sure to include pieces that are great for every body and everyone’s personal style. Check them all out below and check one more thing off your holiday list.
Red Guipure Lace Daphne Dress
Tuckernuck
A high collar. A dramatic bow. A vintage vibe. The Daphne is a swing shape that's so flattering (and comfortable). It's available in several colors, too. Sizes XXS-XXXL
Silk slip dresses are so on-trend right now, and this one from Quince isn't just washable(!!), but Quince is known for ultra-high-quality pieces at an incredibly reasonable price. So you can look like a million bucks without spending it. Available in lots of colors. Sizes XS-XL
This dress is ultra-feminine thanks to the gentle draped style and low stand-up collar. It's available in cream (pictured), black, and olive green. Sizes XS-XXL
Anything belted is pretty much going to look great on anyone. It defines your waist and the wide v-neck makes it perfect for holiday brunches to cocktail parties. Sizes S-XXL
This dress is a Lilly bestseller for a reason: the crinkle texture and fit-and-flare silhouette make it celebration-ready. It comes in this mulberry foil color and a low tide navy, too. Sizes 00-16.
Anthropologie's icon Somerset Maxi Dress gets a holiday makeover in a rich purple velvet. It's incredibly flattering on everyone (Somerset fans have collections of this style). Available in standard, petite, and plus. Sizes XXS-3X.
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.
Handsome holiday looks are easy with these boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits
The holiday season is fast-approaching and we’re trying to get ahead of the game (hey, 2023 is a good year to start, right?). We’ve rounded up some of our favorite boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits, including pants, vests, and blazers, so you can mix and match and get creative, or buy a set and match head-to-toe. And of course, these aren’t only boys holiday outfits; any kiddo is sure to look dapper in these duds. Our picks of boys’ sweaters, holiday blazers, and cozy sweats are below. (Looking for holiday dresses? We’ve got you covered with this post!)
Wool Argyle Sweater
JACADI
This modern take on classic argyle makes this sweater a great choice. Plus, it's heirloom-quality, so hand-me-downs have never looked so good.
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.
Holiday jammies? Check. Thermos of hot cocoa? Poured. Sounds like you’re ready to hit the city in search of Seattle Christmas lights with the kids
Seattle’s dark winter nights make the perfect backdrop for the colorful holiday lights that kick off the winter season right after families have finished their Thanksgiving dinner. If a brighter-than-bright light display is what you’re after, we’ve got more than a few Seattle Christmas lights that will get you in the spirit. From synched neighborhood light shows to spectacular walk-thru and drive-thru experiences, each will dazzle and amaze wide-eyed kiddos and their bundled-up parents, too. Don’t forget the hot cocoa!
23 cute little houses all in a row, adorned with lights, blow-ups, sleighs, and reindeer are what you’ll find at this Seattle institution. Since 1949, Candy Cane Lane in Ravenna has been charming visitors far and wide with their whimsical, neighborhood display. Want the scoop on this popular event? Read up before heading out.
Find It: N.E. Park Rd., just off the main drag of Ravenna Blvd. at the cross street of 21st Ave. N.E.
Disco Vinnie's House
A local favorite, Disco Vinnie has been designing elaborate light displays that really wow the neighborhood for years. With over 5,000 LED lights and 12-foot video screen, visiting this spot is a feast for the senses that’s full of holiday cheer. Unlike other shows, this one runs for five hours and cycles through 80 songs, so you can swing by, stay for a bit and then come back another time for a totally new experience. It features four singing, old-fashioned light bulbs with talking faces (they make great back-up singers when harmonies are needed) and two arches that will really dazzle the kids.
West Seattleites have long loved visiting the Menashe Family Lights. With over 340,000 lights strung around the property, alongside blow-up characters, animated animals, a manger scene with vintage figures and a sweet little train that captivates the kidlets, this is one display that’s brimming with holiday cheer. In years past, the Menashes have invited Santa and Mrs. Claus to make an appearance and even unleashed gentle flurries on the gathered crowd. Who knows what special additions will be made this year. Plan to park the car along the street and get out to wander (and wonder) at this dazzling display.
One of the newer Seattle Christmas light shows on the block, this display started in 2020 and has been bringing it ever since. After a successful first Halloween light run, the Christmas lights are next on the holiday spirit list. Usually set up the first week in December, it's an engaging synched light show that follows the recipe for success—catchy tunes, dancing lights, and the chance to enjoy them both from the comfort of your car. Tune into 103.1 FM and then sit back. This year promises to be another great one, with bigger and brighter lights. Plus, they've been known to host a New Year's Eve countdown too.
Find It: 8103 8th Ave. N.E., Seattle
Olympic Manor
The Olympic Manor Neighborhood light display makes for a lovely winter evening walk (or slow drive) for families. The houses in the area are decked and then decked again for a truly illuminating effect that can’t help but make you smile. Bundle up for this one!
Find It: Between N.W. 75th & N.W. 100th, Seattle
Mountlake Terrace
A lovely drive through a lighted neighborhood and favorite holiday tunes on the radio is the perfect incentive for some fun with the fam. So, fill up the tank and grab your slippers, then head out to this multi-family display in Mountlake Terrace where you can take a stroll or drive around the nearly 25 houses lighting the way. This sparkling spectacular runs through New Year's Day. Away you go!
Find It: 22702 42nd Pl. W., Montlake Terrace, WA
Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/Woodland Park Zoo
WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo
Although this isn't a traditional holiday light display, we're willing to cheat. Because the popular WildLanterns is back for 2023, and it’s all-new with a few surprises in store. A different kind of winter light display, it features four themed zones where you’ll encounter lighted animals and plants lining the zoo’s walking paths. From the beautifully lit butterfly, bug and plant lanterns that start everything off to the mysterious animals just past the fairy tree, this display is totally lit. Don’t forget to make a stop at the interactive zone (in the center of the zoo), but know when you do, your kids won’t want to leave.
If you like your holiday lights with a side of a music and water show, head to Seattle Center to take it all in. Part of the annual Winterfest celebration, the campus will be lit from trees to buildings with lights to illuminate Seattle's dark winter nights. Also in the mix is the International Fountain, programmed for holiday cheer with a music and light show to get everyone in the spirit of the season.
The best holiday light displays in Bellevue & beyond
Snowflake Lane at the Bellevue Collection
Cue the snow flurries! Bellevue is bringing the winter merriment back this season. The annual parade that features twinkling lights, festive music, drummers, dancers, and of course, snowflakes falling from the sky makes its return to the streets outside of Bellevue Square for 2023. Our suggestion? Make a plan to visit Santa when you visit.
Find It: Bellevue Way N.E., between Bellevue Square & Lincoln Square Dates & Times: Nov. 24-Dec. 24, 2023; 7 p.m.
Get into the holiday spirit with this long-standing Eastside family favorite. The annual Garden d’Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden opens the day after Thanksgiving and runs through Dec. 31. Expect to see displays you've grown to love over the years, like Charlotte of web fame and Willie the Slug, but be on the lookout for some new displays and critters in the mix too. Plan about 30 minutes to see this fantastic display along oh-so-stroller-friendly trails.
Good to Know: Tickets are just $8 per person, and kids 10 & under are free but will need a ticket. Tickets are date and time-specific and must be purchased in advance.
The Cross Kirkland Corridor is where you'll find this musical display. Back again for another exciting year, families can gaze at this magnificent display that's programmed by Google engineers. It's a chance for them to dazzle you with their programming chops. 10,000 lights will dance to holiday music. Whether you and the kids do too is up to you. There are two places where families can park for free to enjoy the display. Try the Google surface parking lot (Google Building B, 787 6th St. S.) or the first level of Google Building D (451 7th Ave. S.).
Insider Tip: Plan to see this display turn on when you attend the party on December 2. Expect a petting zoo, a photo booth, hot chocolate and cookies for all. It all starts around 5 p.m., carolers take the stage at 5:15 p.m., and the display goes live around 5:30 p.m.
Find It: 509 6 St. S., Feriton Spur Park, Kirkland, WA
Redmond Lights 2023
Art meets light at this walkable public display. It's a month-long celebration of community and belonging that highlights local artists and their work. This year has plenty of special additions to the usual display including Friday Night Celebrations featuring live entertainment, crafts, vendors, and more—a great reason to brave the chilly winter nights in December. Or keep everyone warm and still have fun when your budding artists participate in the kid's coloring contest.
You'll find merriment and dancing lights at this stunning display in Maple Valley. Getting in on the festivities is easy. Simply pull up with your cuties and tune the car radio to 101.9 on your FM dial to enjoy the show that's filled with Christmas spirit. Then sit back and watch the mesmerizing 70,000 lights do their thing as they cycle through 15-20 songs (that's about 35-40 solid minutes of programming) before heading home to put the Littles to bed. In addition to finding Santa, complete with reindeer, on the roof, exciting new songs has been added to the playlist.
Good to Know: If you would like to drop off a food donation, you'll find a spot to leave non-perishables for the Maple Valley Food Bank.
Now in its eight year, this Eastside display is all about tradition. And this is the second year the display will be completely RGB (that's light show speak for pixelated red, green and blue LED lights). Now boasting a complete rainbow of colors, families can expect about seven or eight songs to be featured, and should plan to sit back and relax as the lights do their thing for about 20 minutes. Just tune your car radio to 103.1 FM to make the cascading jumping lights spring to life, like a reindeer on a rooftop.
Location: 6203 144th Ave. N.E., Redmond, WA
Head north of the city to see these holiday lights
iStock
Evergreen Lights
The folks at Evergreen Church in Bothell hope you and the kids will stop by to enjoy this popular light display that's a favorite with north end families. The Littles will be entertained by over 500,000 bright lights dancing to choreographed music while parents can snuggle up under the heat lamps nearby. Expect snow flurries every 30 minutes and an improved Pixel Light Tunnel that's sure to impress your friends on social. Head inside to watch trains and warm up with cookies and cocoa (available for purchase) before making your way back to the city.
Find It: 3429 240th St. S.E., Bothell, WA Dates: Dec. 1-24, 2023 Event details
Kornfed's Christmas Lights
Lights and inflatables that are the envy of Christmas enthusiasts cover pretty much every inch at this house in Bothell that really goes all out for the season. When you visit, stay a while to take it all in, checking out what's new and different—and hey, what's over there? Kids will have a blast seeing the whimsical elements of this brighter-than-bright display that gets bigger every year. But the real heart of this display is the donations they collect for families in need. If you're able, please bring a food or toys to support the MayWood Hills PTSA. Cash or monetary donations work too. Last year, they collected over $3,000 and 1,000 lbs. of food that went to local famililes.
This spectacular dancing light show, started back in 2007 by Dan Penn, and it pulls out all the stops, bringing holiday cheer to the neighborhood. Plan to spend around 20 minutes taking it all in, tuned to 92.1 FM from your car. Enjoy watching the 10-foot rooftop light grid that really wows. Expect lots of fast-paced holiday songs, mash-ups, and dub step that'll have your kids dancing in their car seats. If you're able, take in this show on a weeknight; it's at the end of a cul-de-sac so things can get a bit crowded on the weekends. Make a plan to visit this cheerful display.
Find It: 21726 N.E. 136th Pl., Woodinville, WA
Lynnwood Lights
A sweet, family-run show that's not too far from the city is what's in store at this display. After pictures with Santa at Alderwood Mall, swing by to catch the nightly show that runs just under 20 minutes. Tune your dial to 103.1 FM to hear the music that's synched to the lights, then sit back and enjoy. Shows run every 30 minutes to help you make your plan.
Insider Tip: Park across the street for the best view of this charming display.
Find It: 1409 172nd Pl. S.W., Lynnwood, WA
The Lights of Christmas
The Lights of Christmas
If you're up for a drive, consider making the trek to Stanwood to see The Lights of Christmas. A truly special show that features over one million twinkling lights, it doesn't get better than this one for spreading holiday cheer. Tune into Christmas music on the radio, then roll down the windows to wave to Mr. & Mrs. Claus as you drive slowly past. Favorite light displays include the light tunnel, Cascade Splendor mountain scene, and Santa with his reindeer. Save some room for their fresh mini hot donuts—the perfect snack for your drive home.
Insider Tip: Advance online tickets are required.
Dates: Select dates Nov. 26-Dec. 30
Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center 20800 Marine Dr. Stanwood, WA
South Sound holiday displays that are worth the drive
Oona Copperhill/PDZ
Zoolights
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s annual Zoolights festival is a great outdoor display for animal lovers of all ages to catch. Each year, the grounds are decked out in their dazzling best to wow visitors big and small. In addition to familiar faves, like the giant octopus and the Narrows Bridge, kids should keep their eyes peeled for Sasquatch and other secret displays as they marvel at this magical electric avenue. And for all the light tunnel fans—get your cameras ready—because this Christmas light display has two tunnels.
Bigger, better, and brighter is the name of the game at this year’s Holiday Magic, a walk-through light experience at the Washington State Fairgrounds. It premiered in 2020 as a safe way for visitors to get their holiday light fix. Now, families will encounter more fantastic light displays at the Light Extravaganza and Hometown Holiday Forest, where lighted trees delight, but the fun doesn't stop there. We know your kids will want to hop aboard the Santa Express Train, ride the Sugar Plum Merry-Go-Round, and see if they can spot the Big Guy in Red at Santa's Village. The ice skating rink is back for another season of cheer, and holiday food is available to purchase, an easy way to keep the kids happy as you explore.
Dates: Delect dates Dec. 1-23
Washington State Fairgrounds 110 9th Ave. S.W. Puyallup, WA Online: thefair.com
Be sure to put the Best Of Washington's 2015 winner on your driving route this year. Families will always find something different at this display that changes from year to year. To listen to the songs synched with the over 70,000 lights, tune into 89.1 FM. We love that this display is totally committed to being "green." In fact, almost everything you see has been saved from the landfill by display designer, Gena Laws and her family. If the spirit of the season moves you, bring some canned food to support the Black Diamond Senior Center and Food Bank. The Laws family is proud to have raised over 50,000 pounds of food in the past 13 years.
Find It: 30211 176th Ave. S.E., Kent, WA (follow signs off of Covington/Sawyer Rd. & 179th)
Good to Know:
1. Be sure to check the Facebook pages of your favorite residential displays for progress reports, scheduling changes, and amazing photos of what you’ll see.
2. Many of these displays go live Thanksgiving weekend, while others don’t start until December. Be sure to check dates, times, and ticket requirements of your favorite displays before heading out.
If ‘festive farmhouse’ is your aesthetic, the Joanna Gaines Holiday Collection has everything you need
Joanna Gaines hasn’t let us down yet when it comes to her decorating skills. Her Hearth & Hand Collection from Target is a year-round go-to for anyone into modern farmhouse vibes. So it’s obviously no surprise that the Joanna Gaines Holiday Collection is everything we’ve come to expect from her. In true farmhouse-chic style, she combines wooden, metal, and organic elements to create a collection that can seriously work for any home. Thanks to the neutral hues and classic styles, there’s something for everyone here.
We rounded up some of our favorites here that we’re especially fond of, but really, the whole Joanna Gaines Holiday Collection is beautiful. Blankets, wreaths, and stockings are just a few stars of this wintery show. There’s also decorative signs, garland, tree collars—pick some to add to your existing decorations, or make 2023 the year you redo your entire set up. Read on to see our picks!
Preserved Grass Leaf & Snowberry Wreath
Target
Add a natural vibe to your holiday decor with this 21" preserved wreath.
Pre-Lit Faux Pine Christmas Tree with Clear Lights
Target
We're loving the intentionally-minimal tree that doesn't just give your space the farmhouse vibe Joanna Gaines is famous for; fewer branches means your ornaments will really be highlighted.
Looking for a way to show off all those holiday cards you get this season? This 26" scalloped holder lets you display them neatly and gives them a place of honor wherever you set it up.
Farmhouse decor is all about the natural elements, so adding a few strands of this wooden bead garland to your tree is a great way to keep your farmhouse style through the holiday.
Nothing sounds like the holiday quite like the tinkling of bells. Popping this hanger on any door in your home will keep the bells ringing through the entire season.
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.
Ask Alexa to pump up the holiday spirit and amuse your family using these fun Amazon Alexa Christmas skills
Want to keep the kids happy and entertained for the rest of the season? Let Alexa delight the children like your own personal holiday elf! All you have to do is ask. We’ve rounded up a few awesome Alexa Christmas skills to make your days and nights with the kids merry and bright—and hopefully out of your hair for a few minutes while “Santa” finishes wrapping all those gifts.
Need some help filling your playlist with Christmas songs? Using the iHeartRadio skill, iHeart Santa, kids can answer a series of questions posed by Santa to have a custom-curated list of holiday songs created for them.
“Alexa, play Christmas music.”
Nothing helps lift your spirits like some jolly Christmas tunes. Just say the word and Alexa will cue up your favorite songs of the season through Amazon Music. Even if you don’t happen to be a Prime Member, you can just enable the Christmas Radio skill and ask Alexa to play it. Bonus tip: ask Alexa to sing you a Christmas carol and the kids will love the response.
"Alexa, open Christmas Song Quiz."
Are you a Christmas Carol master? Step right up and test your knowledge. Alexa will read you lines from Christmas songs and ask you to guess the song titles, or ask you to finish the line. How many can you guess?
“Alexa, ask Christmas Countdown how long until Santa comes.”
If your excited tots wake up each morning in December wondering if Christmas has finally arrived, Alexa can help them keep track with the Christmas Countdown skill.
"Alexa, turn the Christmas tree lights on.”
Whether you want to be able to turn your Christmas lights on and off remotely or you’re hoping to light your home up like you're in the Great Christmas Light Fight, Alexa can help. Plug any light strand into an Alexa-compatible smart outlet and you can control them using your voice. If you want to get a little fancier, you can upgrade to Alexa-compatible smart Christmas lights that can be programmed with specific effects.
Want an easy way to help your kids understand the importance of giving and helping others? Alexa can help with the Christmas Kindness skill. When you enable the skill Alexa will prompt you with suggestions on random acts of kindness.
With so many ways to engage in holiday festivities with Alexa, this home assistant may as well be your very own "keep the kiddos busy" advent calendar for the whole month of December!
“Alexa, play Santa Claus.”
Want a direct line to the big man? Alexa has the hook-up. Kids can say "Alexa, ask Santa Claus if I'm naughty or nice" to find out which list they’ve made after being quizzed on a series of questions on their behavior.
“Alexa, start The Night Before Christmas.”
Get the kids ready for bed and those sugar plum visions with the classic tale of how Santa and his reindeer arrive. Alexa also has some other holiday stories up her sleeve.
“Alexa, play Christmas sounds.”
If you need a break from "Rudolph" and "Jingle Bells" but still want to fill your home with the sounds of the season, you can enable the Christmas sounds skill and Alexa will spread the holiday cheer with sounds like bells ringing and horse hooves clomping.
Speaking of Christmas Eve, if you want to get those kids off to bed so you can enjoy some quiet time and a glass of wine, convince them that Santa is on his way by enabling the NORAD Tracks Santa skill.
Don't worry, Alexa won't spoil all the Christmas magic. If anything, the home assistant has you covered by answering all those difficult questions you might not be ready to answer this year. Some other challenging Christmas questions Alexa can answer include “How old is Santa Claus?” and “What is the true meaning of Christmas?”
“Alexa, tell me some Christmas jokes.”
Everyone loves a good old cheesy joke, especially about Christmas. There are lots of great Christmas jokes and riddles out there and Alexa knows plenty of them. See how much Alexa can make you laugh!
Are you looking for a way to make a positive impact and give back this season? Spread some holiday cheer to the kids and families of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® by participating in their third annual St. Jude Joy Drive.
Since it opened on Feb. 4, 1962, St. Jude has helped countless families. So much so, that treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% when they first opened their doors to more than 80% today.
To further its lifesaving mission, St. Jude shares the breakthroughs it makes freely, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. With assistance from generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.
While St. Jude has made great strides, there is still more to be done to find a cure for childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases—and that’s where you come in! Read on to learn more about how to spread holiday cheer for a good cause (and have fun while doing it)!
Spread some holiday cheer to the kids and families of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by participating in their third annual St. Jude Joy Drive. Visit their site to learn more and participate.
St. Jude patient Connor, who is diagnosed with medulloblastoma, pictured with his mother Brooke and father Christopher.
Throughout December, St. Jude is hosting the St. Jude Joy Drive—a social media-driven campaign that highlights St. Jude supporters through heartwarming and inspirational storytelling of why they continue to give to St. Jude.
To join them, share what brings you joy over the holidays on your social media account. To participate, simply post a video about what makes you light up during the festive season and why you donate and support St. Jude. Be sure to tag @stjudela, who will share it on their social media during the month of December. You can include your favorite traditions, activities, things to eat and drink, or a favorite memory.
Invite your friends, family and followers to share what they love about the holidays, and to give a suggested donation of $10, or whatever they can donate to St. Jude.
Spreading joy is an easy way to bring some holiday magic to families and children who are spending their holidays at the hospital. Help share the joy of the holidays from your heart with the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by participating in the St. Jude Joy Drive and make a lasting difference!
In need of a major jolt of Christmas cheer? Then grab a table at one of these decked-out restaurants throughout Los Angeles this holiday season
While you may need to drive to find snow near LA, you don’t have to go far to experience spectacular holiday light displays—and we’re talking about the glittering, over-the-top decor at some of our favorite local restaurants. These LA restaurants go all out in Dec., complete with tinsel garlands, twinkling lights, a whole array of ornaments, and Christmas-y bric-a-brac that kids will love as much as their plain pasta. From elegant to over-the-top, whether you want a quick bite or a big Christmas dinner, here’s where you can enjoy the most festive decorations while you dine. PS: And if you’re looking for a great spot to eat where the kids can be, well, kids, check out our dining recommends for great restaurants where the kids can run around.
Enjoy the holiday decor at Rao's Hollywood where you'll find garlands and wreathes wrapped in glistening lights and bows hung all around the restaurant. Add to that, delicious Italian food, just like Nonna used to make, that will have you complimenting the chef.
Colorful lights are a year-round staple at this old-school Mexican spot in the Valley. Come Christmastime, though, Casa Vega adds tinsel, ornaments, and a tree or two (or three) for plenty of holiday cheer. In addition to serving up all the atmosphere, the restaurant also offers tasty margaritas for the over-21 crowd and a just-as-tasty kids menu for little ones.
Black and white photos of celebrities line the walls of this iconic Burbank steakhouse, which you may recognize from any number of TV shows and films—it was recently featured in La La Land. An inflatable Santa is there to greet kids at the entrance, and once you're inside, you can't miss the oversized Christmas tree, giant nutcracker, and red stockings.
There's nothing ho-ho-hum about The Tam O'Shanter's Christmas festivities with merry carolers on hand every night through Dec. 30. The Scottish pub's patio is also open in case your family wants to take advantage of the oh-so Christmas-y and cozy outdoor fireplace.
Another local Mexican dining institution (it's been around since 1931), El Coyote also does Christmas lights throughout the year but really gets decked out come Dec. Think a Christmas tree, garlands, glowing reindeer, mini Santas, to name a few. Be sure to check out the elaborate window display too—it's the perfect thing to entertain kids while you wait for your food.
This Long Beach restaurant may have just won Christmas. Now through Dec. 30, you can stop by to experience all the joy at The Ordinaire's merry and bright holiday pop-up, complete with gift-wrapped tables, a crackling fireplace with stockings on the mantel, and a flurry of lights and tinsel. While you're there, don't miss out on the restaurant's seasonal libations, like the Snowball Old Fashioned or Bad Santa with rum and chai.
Just in case you can sneak in a night off from the kiddos during the hectic holiday season, consider a trip to Christmas pop-up Blitzen's at the cocktail bar Here and Now. This temporary spot features festive decor galore, along with occasional appearances by Santa, carolers, and drag queens (because... why not?). Enjoy the holiday decor, now-Jan. 1.
Since 1992, the Mission Inn has decked out its interior and exterior spaces with thousands of twinkling lights during its annual Festival of Lights. It has become a must-visit destination for over 500,000 visitors each year. This year is the 30th installation of the festival which runs from Nov. 25-Jan. 6. Rumor has it, booking a table on the outside patio will afford you a grand view of these lights—with a great dinner to boot.
The big man in red is back in town, and considering he’s checking his list not once but twice, it might be worth you checking, ahem, this list a few times to orchestrate a very special meeting between your kiddo and Kris Kringle. That’s right: the season of wonder calls for a visit with Mr. Claus—if only to ensure that you’re off the naughty list for 2022 (if you need some help with that, consider this list of feel-good volunteer opportunities!). Whether you want a few Instagram-worthy photos or a quick check-in with the North Pole’s toy manufacturer-in-chief, here’s where to find Santa Claus this holiday season in Chicago.
Santa will be visiting Millennium Plaza in Aurora on the first two Saturdays in December. Stop by Santa at the Gazebo from 1-3pm and receive a free photo download.
Santa loves hanging out in his cozy cottage on Level 3 of the 900 North Michigan Shops, and welcomes kids to share their wish lists every day throughout the holiday season. 2022 visits with Santa will be by reservation only, 11-6pm daily, and cost $50.
Dates: Nov. 19-Dec. 24
900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 3 Mag Mile Online:shop900.com
3. Santa Claus at Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops is once again offering the Santa’s Wonderland Christmas-themed events including a free 4x6 studio-quality photo with Santa and a free digital video greeting card to share on social media plus free giveaways. Advance reservations are required for all stores.
Dates: Nov. 5-Dec. 24
Various locations around Chicagoland Online: basspro.com
Santa’s winter wonderland is landing at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, near the food court, so you can meet the man in red and holiday shop ‘til you drop. Visits with Santa are always free at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago (with photo packages available for purchase.) Reservations are recommended to help reduce wait time. Pre-book now and received a free personalized call from Santa powered by the Portable North Pole. All guests who pre-book and purchase a photo package get a free, personalized video from the North Pole after the visit. Pet nights are Nov. 21, 28, and Dec. 5 from 4-7pm.
Bonus: Join Santa at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Sun., Dec. 4, 10-11:15am for a sensory-friendly visit with Santa for all ages and abilities, without sensory triggers like lights, music or crowds.
As part of Gallagher's Winterland festivities, kids can take photos with Santa in his workshop for free. The experience is even open to pets on Sundays.
Delight the whole family with a special lunch with St. Nick himself. Everyone will love holiday music, kid-friendly treats and endless onboard entertainment that brings the magical season to life.
ZooLights returns Sat., Nov. 19, transforming Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland. This treasured Chicago holiday tradition illuminates the zoo with dazzling lights and dynamic displays. General admission for Zoolights is $5. Tickets to free admission Mondays will be released the Tuesday prior at 11am each week.
Santa is a busy, busy man this time of year, so make a reservation to meet and snap a pic with him at the iconic Macy's State Street. If you can't join in person, set off on an interactive online journey through the North Pole with Santaland At Home, beginning Nov. 25.
Kids can jump on the Enchanted Choo-Choo to explore Santa’s Merry Main Street, where they can share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and meet Santa’s friends, neighbors, street performers, and toymakers. Photo opportunities abound. Huts throughout make up a European-style market of seasonal wares, novelties treats, and unique holiday gifts. Visit Jolly Olde Post Office, where they can post a letter to Santa.
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s workshop. Santa will be located in Center Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa loves shopping at Oakbrook Center when he’s not busy at work in the North Pole. Take a moment to share your wishlist with him. Pet nights on Nov. 21, 28, and Dec. 5 from 4-7pm. Santa Cares sensory-friendly visits on Dec. 4 from 9-10am (reservations required.) Book online to receive a free phone call from Santa too.
Begin your holiday season with a drive-thru light show experience at Santa’s Village. Drive through the park and enjoy over 2 million lights synchronized to music plus dazzling displays and meet Santa’s real reindeer. At the end of the route, you’ll have the opportunity to park, take photos with Santa Claus, and dig into delicious funnel cakes and hot chocolate.
Families will feast on a lavish breakfast, visit with Santa to share some of their holiday wishes and participate in other fun activities. Adults ($56), Ages 4-12 ($28), Ages 3 & under (Free.) Bring a new unwrapped toy donation for the Walter & Connie Payton Foundation. To make a reservation, please call (312) 235-7063 or email SoldierFieldBistro@aramark.com
Southlake Mall is hosting a kids Pajama Party in the Center Court with special guests including Santa, Mrs. Claus, Buddy the Elf, and Rudolph. Kids are welcome to come in their pjs for a dance party, storytime, goodies, and more.
Chicago's Swissotel's 9th Annual Santa Suite and Santa Claus is ready to show off his swanky Chicago pad! Each year the Swissôtel Chicago Presidential Suite is transformed into Santa’s home-away-from-the-Pole for the holiday season. The suite offers sweeping views of the city, where Santa can closely monitor the weather patterns before his busy Christmas Eve and provides a cozy retreat for finalizing his naughty and nice list. Book a very exclusive private visit, or have breakfast with the jolly fellow on Dec. 10 or Dec. 11.
Cap off a day of holiday shopping with a visit with Santa at Chicago's Mag Mile shopping hub. Visits are always free, but you can save 30% on your photos by pre-ordering a package online, where you’ll also receive a coupon for $30 to spend towards Tiny Prints! Pet photos are available on November 28 and December 5 from 4-7pm.
If waiting in long (and often frigid) lines for a 30-second photo opp isn't how you want to spend your hard-earned holiday time, consider one of the few amazing Christmas experiences to come out of the pandemic: a virtual Santa visit! And if you book with Tales From the Chair, you don't just get an audience with Saint Nick. You also get 20 minutes of one-on-one time with Mrs. Claus and a few elves. What makes this Zoom opportunity so special is that they make it a goal to see all families, no matter their financial situation. This year, they're introducing a sliding scale instead of set prices with a goal to raise enough that they can fund a day of fully-free Santa visits. If you can afford to donate, tip, or pay a little more, those dollars will go directly to financing this mission.
They’ll always be your kids’ favorite, so make sure they know it with these gifts for cool aunts & uncles
Maybe they have kids of their own; maybe they don’t. Either way, our own siblings always seem to end up being our kiddos’ favorite people on the planet. They’re just so much cooler than us, right? Younger, older, near, or far, it doesn’t matter. Aunts and uncles are where it’s at as far as our little ones are concerned, and we suspect (no, we know) that their adoration of their nieces and nephews knows no bounds, obviously. Even if they won’t admit it to us. So we’re on a mission to show them what they mean to us and to our kids with these gifts for aunts and uncles!
No matter what kind of aunt or uncle they are, we’ve found them something great. We’ve also made sure to include goodies that not only show them that we love them, but also that we know they’re a little more fun than we are (at least according to little eyes!). Our guide to gifts for aunts and uncles is going to be your go-to when you’re searching for something perfect.
Etched Can Glass
You've probably seen these distinct can-shaped glasses all over Instagram, with with VistaPrint's etching options, you can hook them up with an on-trend and personalized gift that's ideal for iced coffee, lemon water, brews—anything they like sipping on!
Everyone loves the classic Letterfolk Tile Mat, since you can customize them however you want. We assume your kids' aunt or uncle will want to go ahead and officially label their house the "fun house", right?
15% Off with Code TINY15—Valid 10/20 through 12/31
All the benefits of a full bar in one coffee-maker-inspired machine! Mixer capsules combine with vodka, tequila, whiskey, gin/rum, and water from one of the tempered glass containers designed for your spirits to create easy cocktails in a snap.
When little ones go to Aunt Favorite and Uncle Favorite's house for a sleepover, or even just an afternoon out on the town! Dreambaby® Grab 'N Go booster is a perfect gift for on-the-go families. It’s great for having little ones at the dining table without needing to keep a highchair on hand for little visitors.
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On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Clickin’! These tech gifts will take care of all the button-loving loved ones on your list
All the best high-tech goodies and gear comes out during the holidays, and we’ve been waiting all year for this! Even if you don’t consider yourself particularly technically-inclined, these goodies are so much fun. You also don’t have to be an adult to want tech gear for the holidays. We made sure to keep the little ones in mind while we picked out these gifts, so don’t sleep on this scroll.
Tech gifts don’t need to be mindless, either. There are some things that are educational, encourage creativity, and actually make our days much easier. There are gifts for your favorite workout buff, home chef, new mama, and of course, the little ones. We left no stone unturned while we scoured the internet to find you the best ideas and inspiration. Toys, gadgets, and more are ready to be wrapped and put under the tree for your favorite techie. From the easy and convenient to the I-had-no-idea-how-fun-this-was, this round-up of the best tech gifts out there are sure to launch your season into high-gear.
Osmo Genius Starter Kit + Family Game Night
Osmo makes hands-on learning games in which players use objects in the real world to interact with the digital world shown on their iPad or Fire tablets! They'll be able to explore STEM games on their own or with the family through this Starter Kit!
Tovala is redefining meal delivery! How? With the Tovala oven. This baby is a 6-in-1 steam + air fry oven that's specially designed to create the meals Tovala delivers. Scan the QR code and you're off. Or, scan the barcode of your favorite groceries, pantry staples, and frozen foods, for quick delicious results. When you feel like cooking, keep it simple. Follow a few prep steps in the app, then press “cook” to a make a chef-perfected side dish, brunch, or lunch. When they say "smart oven", they mean it!
Willow Pumps are a specific category of tech that we absolutely couldn't leave out! These wearable pumps prevent nursing mamas from being chained—er, plugged into their pump. Leak-free pumping, even while you're moving around (because you can move around wearing them!), track your production and control your pump via the app, and only wash two parts!
For the iPhone fanatic in your life, this is such a fun (not to mention ultra-unique) gift! Display your old iPhone or pick one from the collection for a really cool art piece.
Make every shower a spa experience with this aromatherapy towel warmer! In 10-15 minutes it heats three towels or two bath sheets with optional aromatherapy. We want one big enough to sit in, but this'll do for now.
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