If you’re about ready to click your way to a completed shopping list online—stop! Consider shopping small at these independent toy stores in Dallas that have passionate employees ready to share their personal recommendations and tons of perks (think: local delivery or curbside pickup, free gift wrapping, and the opportunity to test-drive the merchandise). You can pick out the perfect gift for all the little ones on your list while supporting local businesses. It’s a win-win.
You’ll find loads of toy options and tons of helpful salespeople at The Toy Maven. They have three locations to choose from, or you can shop via their new website. Not sure what to get? You can narrow your options by age or interest to get some suggestions.
6025 Royal Lane
Dallas, TX
5600 W Lovers Lane
Dallas, TX
1275 East Southlake Blvd.
Southlake, TX Online: thetoymaven.com
2. Toys Unique!
You’ll love this toy store in Dallas as it is a local, family-owned business in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex that has been bringing continuous joy into children’s lives for 40 years. They offer complimentary gift wrapping, which definitely comes in handy when you remember you need a gift on the day of a party.
This chic boutique has a mix of everything from books, toys, and art supplies to apparel—with options, including gender-neutral, for babies through tweens. The store was created from a love of fashion and seeing happy kids dressed in clothes that make them feel confident and excited to begin each day. The store’s owners pride themselves on sourcing the best quality, natural fabrics, and conscientious production from the brands they select.
You’ll be totally impressed by the quality of toys offered at We Are the Missfits. That’s intentional— the products are cultivated to stimulate the brain and encourage self-expression through fashion, art, science, and literature (Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty, anyone?). Sure, they also carry stuff that is just for fun, but prepare to feel inspired when in the store. If you can’t pop inside, that’s OK. They offer curbside pickup and free delivery within five miles of the store.
CAMP is a toy store and more—known for its totally unique shop-play hybrid experience in its locations across the country. Inside this CAMP store, visitors can take part in rotating themed experiences, kids are encouraged to try out loads of toys they have available, and there’s even a cafe for parents. Every surface is a seamless blend of play and product.
9830 N. Central Expressway
Dallas, TX Online: camp.com
6. The Toy Store
The very reasonably named Toy Store in Snider Plaza offers eco-friendly, STEM-certified, and sustainable play toys for people of all ages. From baby toys to adult puzzles, they have you covered. And if you are super busy (like we know you are), they even offer free delivery within 10 miles.
Save some adorable snaps of your baby playing with their new toys—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
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.
A holiday art project featuring your baby’s handprint or footprint is a fun, festive way to capture the moment
When there’s a new baby in the home, it’s practically a requirement that their tiny toes and fingers make their way into some sort of cute keepsake. Even if Christmas footprint art isn’t your thing (right now anyway), we’re betting the grandparents will think it’s the absolute best. We’ve rounded up our favorite ideas, and, one day, when the kids are grown, you’ll look back and marvel at how far they’ve come.
So, these might not be the fanciest Christmas footprint art projects we’ve seen, but they are adorable, and you can make them with supplies you probably already have at home.
How adorable is this ornament? This Christmas footprint art project will win over even the most skeptical of parents. Check out this easy-to-follow tutorial from Midget Momma.
Instead of little toes, use little fingerprints to create this adorable oven-baked clay snowflake with a heart in the middle. We also love the use of vibrant colors that don’t scream ‘holiday season.’ Get the tutorial from Made to Be a Momma.
Capture those little piggies just as they are this holiday season with this Christmas footprint art project. We love the sweet saying that goes on the back of this tile ornament; find it and a full tutorial at Make the Best of Everything.
Create Santa and Rudolph using some salt dough, paint, and your child's hand and foot. Sturdier than paper and festive enough to display every year, these adorable ornaments are a great project to help you and your child get into the holiday spirit. Visit Viva Veltora for a simple tutorial.
To create these wooden ornaments, you'll need a little help from Etsy. You trace your child's hand, stamp it, or take a photocopy of it. Then you send that plus your child's hand measurements to the Etsy shop MadeWithMamaCo, and they'll craft a wooden ornament of your child's hand. They also burn your child's name and age into the wood and finish the ornament with a twine ribbon for hanging on your tree.
Shake it up with a penguin plate instead of a footprint ornament. It's just as cute and can be displayed along with other Christmas decorations. The secret is all in the type of paint you buy. Get the details from Fun Handprint Art.
Your child is always a little angel, of course, and this DIY craft from That Artist Woman helps you prove it. It's easy to do and will be cherished forever. While your child's hands and feet are covered in paint, make multiples of this design to give to grandparents and other loved ones.
Here's an easy way to keep it simple. Purchase a digital download of this template from the Etsy shop HappyHeartPrintables, and then break out the paint and your baby's little feet. Add your child's name and the year, then pop into an inexpensive frame for personalized decor or a fun present for grandparents!
Handprint & Footprint Kit
This clever kit from Bubzi Co makes it easy to preserve your child's tiny little toes and fingers forever. The kit comes with clay you insert into the frame and then gently press your child's hand and foot into. Pop two photos in the photo spots and your keepsake is done. You can buy the kit on Amazon ($18). Pro tip: If you suspect your child will be too squirmy or squeamish for the clay, wait until they're asleep to take their prints.
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.
Saying thank you to a mail carrier is an easy and thoughtful way to share the holiday spirit with others
Through snow and rain, heat, and gloom of night, your local mail carriers deliver your letters and packages directly to your door (or at least your nearest mailbox). And, during the season of goodwill and cheer, they deserve major props. From mail carrier thank you cards to gifts for mail carriers, here are six ways to thank your mail carrier. The best part? All of these are easy for kids and fun, too (think baking cookies!).
Write a letter!
USPS
Even if you don't know your mail person by name, you can still address them in a general way, such as "Our Favorite Mailman" or "Our Faithful Carrier." A simple note that says how much you appreciate the hard work they do (extra cute if your kids can write it out) will go a long way in making your postal worker feel special. Put it in an envelope and use stickers instead of stamps. (After all, they love mail, right?) You can also nab this free, downloadable template if you need a little help!
As always, a thank you card is a lovely gesture. Let the kids draw a little picture or get creative or use a printable like this one to make a little note to attach to the flag of your mailbox. If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card for somewhere like Amazon or a nearby coffee shop in the envelope. Be sure and do something OBVIOUS to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail.
Include a Gift Card
iStock
If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card to somewhere like Target or a nearby coffee shop with the letter or the card. Be sure and do something obvious to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail. Mail carriers are not legally allowed to accept single gifts valued at over $20 so keep that in mind.
A thoughtful gift (again, under $20) is another simple way to let them know you're thinking of them. Consider things like warm gloves, an insulated mug, cozy socks, or a new water bottle.
Bake Something Special
iStock
Leave cookies in the box or on the doorstep with a clearly marked sign. Be sure to seal them in something, even a ziplock or paper bag decorated with stickers works, and attach a note that says thanks! It's a good idea to list the ingredients in case of allergies or food sensitivities.
Say It Out Loud
iStock
Shout it out! If you're home when the mail comes, be sure to say, "Thank you!" Get the kids in the habit of saying it, too. You can always throw open a window and shout it out. A little gesture of kindness and gratitude like this can go a long way on a long day.
Your complete guide to the most spectacular events, decked-out neighborhoods, glowing gardens, and more must-see holiday light displays in San Francisco and the Bay Area
Twinkling lights sprouting up all over town are the hallmark of the holidays, and nothing beats grabbing one of the best hot chocolates in the Bay Area and walking around these world-class holiday light displays to get into the spirit. From strolling through your neighborhood to driving through a festive light display at your local park, holiday lights illuminate San Francisco. The best part? Most are free. You can save your money to purchase the perfect Christmas tree at a farm nearby.
Where to See the Best Holiday Lights in San Francisco
Nov. 9-Jan. 31: This urban lights festival will feature 50 dramatic, eco-friendly light art installations—including new iconic works in the Mission Bay and SoMa neighborhoods. See San Francisco shine as a gallery of light and learn about the artists that have brought these installations to life during the event.
Dec. 1-Mar. 12: The illuminating art installation "Entwined" will return to Golden Gate Park, transforming Peacock Meadow into an enchanted forest of otherworldly shapes and ever-changing light. Created by San Francisco artist Charles Gadeken, the display helps to commemorate Golden Gate Park’s 150th Anniversary.
Nov. 24-Jan. 6 (select dates): Gardens of cacti, succulents, and trees will shine bright at the Ruth Bancroft Garden's annual Garden of D’Lights. Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they stroll through the garden’s 2.5 acres of beautiful greenery transformed into magical and colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights.
Nov. 24-Dec. 31: Enjoy a wonderful night of peace and Christmas enchantment at Temple Hill. The 2022 Days of Christmas festivities will include holiday lights, Nativity tours, and more. The Oakland Temple Christmas Lights will shine every evening from dusk to 9 p.m.
Dec. 9-31: The 80+ homes of Crippsmas Place are on Cripps Place, Asquith Place, Nicolet Court, Wellington Place, Perkins St., and the stretch of Nicolet Ave. between Gibraltar Dr. and Perkins St. in Fremont. Enjoy the spectacle from 6-10 p.m. and either walk or drive through this year. Don’t forget to get your free candy cane!
Various dates Nov. 10-Jan 28: Walk through a mile-long journey to be dazzled by hundreds of larger-than-life animals lit up by lanterns in this unforgettable holiday lights display! Ride the gondola to the Land of Bugs, hop on the Express Train through Winter Wonderland, and finish the evening with a visit to Santa!
Dec. 2-31: Christmas spirit comes to life on this lively, lit-up block in Alameda that has the whole package: beautiful lights, friendly neighbors, and people strolling galore—and it's been going on since 1938! While Santa's visit isn't confirmed yet, Christmas Tree Lane will continue to bring holiday cheer for all.
More Houses & Streets that Light Up for the Holidays in the East Bay
These houses are known for their amazing decorations so be sure to check them out!
Livermore: 467 Knottingham Circle
Brentwood: Tunnels of Joy: La Costa Dr. and nearby houses are expected to be illuminated this year. This display is also a fundraiser for a child with cancer.
Newark: 6716 Fontaine Ave.
Hercules: 145 Onxy Ct.
Concord: 219 Rock Oak Rd.
Union City: 32247 Valiant Way
Fairfield: This Disney-inspired musical house can be found at 2132 Calder Pl.
Where to See the Best Holiday Lights on the Peninsula & in the South Bay
Christina Lai
IlluminOdyssey Winter Light Experience
Nov. 10-Jan. 28: This dazzling exhibit with its lit-up floors, walls and ceilings will electrify little imaginations! Colorful lanterns will light the way as kids dance in a laser light show, wander under an illuminated canopy, and create refractive rainbows with a wand. Thurs.-Sun
Nov. 18-Jan. 7: Gather your friends and make a reservation to experience Woodside's Filoli Historic House and Gardens all lit up for the holiday season. Take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the winter garden adorned with lights and colorful decor or cozy up to a fire pit under twinkling lights.
Good to Know: In December, you can get tickets for Santa Saturdays and take a selfie with the big man himself. There also are special sensory days when they open early to those with sensory sensitivities.
Holiday Lights Drive-Through at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds
Nov. 24 through Dec. 25 (Friday-Sunday): Imagine being surrounded by lights on a 1/2 mile drive through the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds. Families can enjoy spectacular lighted holiday displays featuring giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights, Santa, reindeer, snowmen, lit tunnels, and more.
Nov. 29-Jan. 1: Twinkle, Twinkle! Get ready to check out all the holiday lights and decked-out trees at this fun drive-through event at History Park. This event supports the non-profit Christmas in the Park
Dec. 5-30 (except Dec. 25): Be sure to buy your ticket in advance (required) and enjoy your slow cruise through 1.5 miles of twinkling lights. Dinosaurs, pirate ships, and all sorts of animals join Santa and his crew in the many light displays.
Nov.-Dec.: Looking for an activity to go with your holiday lights this year? No problem. Emerald Hills Golfland gets even more festive with Christmas lights and Christmas music. There are two courses but we like the course that's closer to Blossom Hill Rd. as you can hear the music better.
Dave's Christmas House Benefiting Make-a-Wish Foundation
Start Date TBA-Dec. 25: For many years this Willow Glen house has been decked out in thousands of lights, all in the name of helping children who are battling illness. Swing by to visit and leave a donation to support the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The San Jose neighborhood of Willow Glen is well known for its light displays and Christmas trees.
Dec. 9-31: Christmas Tree Lane (or Fulton Street in the off-season) has been putting visitors in the Christmas spirit with its holiday lights display since the 1940s. This year it celebrates more than 80 years of bringing holiday cheer! For the two weeks leading up to Christmas, you can drive or walk through this display to see carolers, vintage lawn displays, and lights, lights, and more lights. Lights can be seen 5-11p.m. on Fulton St. between Embarcadero Ave. and Seale Rd.
Start Date TBA: This light display is one for all ages and has such variety of colors and sparkles. The amount of lights is EPIC as they even extend over the street. There are also two different light shows that happen every 15 minutes. Stay on the lookout for the penguins playing hockey with candy canes! The address is 1419 Lamore Dr. in San Jose.
More Houses & Streets in the South Bay/Peninsula to Visit for Epic Holiday Light Displays
San Carlos: 1900 Eucalyptus Ave.
San Jose: Santana Row
Santa Clara: Cathedral of Faith: They have a live show on weekends from 6-9 p.m. in Dec. except on Christmas.
Campbell: 750 Harriet Ave.: Tune your car radio to 92.9 for the music to go along with the show.
Los Altos: Estate Dr. at Grant Rd.
Where to See the Best Holiday Lights in Marin
Winterfest Sausalito
Dec. 9-10: Winterfest packs the fun for the holidays with the beauty of water as its backdrop. It's well known that the best time to visit Sausalito is during the holiday season, and this year is no different. Anchored by the famed Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks, Sausalito is also the perfect venue from which to view the Lighted City Skyline and the Bay Lights installation on the Bay Bridge, which is easier to see in the winter courtesy of earlier nightfall.
Dates for 2023 are TBD: Bringing new meaning to the phrase "deck the halls," this house has Christmas spirit on the inside AND outside. Bonus: Visitors can come inside to tour the different holiday-themed rooms. Christmas themes include trains, angels, candy canes, and more. Can you spot Santa? You may even get to see Santa and Mrs. Claus at the end of your tour!
Nov. 24 through end of Dec.: This tree performs a lovely musical show every night and is a great spot to visit this holiday season. A 30-foot tree of lights with more than 3,000 individually controlled LED lights is synchronized to your favorite holiday music via 96.1 FM on your radio. Operating daily after Thanksgiving from 5-10 p.m. through New Years Day. Check their Facebook page for additional updates.
The holiday season will be here before we know it, and it’s pretty much a given we’ll be frantically trying to pull together holiday pictures in time to get those cards in the mail. Good news—we’ve gathered the most creative family photo ideas out there, and all of them can be recreated with ease! Gone are the cheesy grins and fake smiles, these family holiday photo ideas will put everyone at ease and make the process much less stressful.
Outdoor photos can be almost anything you want them to be, depending on your location and props. We love the simple idea of capturing a sweet candid moment instead of the usual pose with cheesy grins.
If there's anything cuter than matching holiday family pajamas, we haven't found it. And don't worry, all sorts of pajamas are available far enough in advance that you don't have to wait until the last minute.
For big laughs, send out photos suited up as Ralphie and the rest of the Parker family. Mom Amanda scoured deal sites like eBay and Amazon to find everything she needed to re-create the classic scene. Want to know how she did it? Hop on over to Work in Progress to find out.
Sometimes the kids just don't want to cooperate. Instead of stressing out and worrying about getting the picture family photo, just go with the flow. It usually ends up being more authentic and will give all your friends a good laugh.
Is it the beach, the mountains, the family farm? Whatever your happy place, featuring it in your holiday pictures photo never gets old.
Make the Most of Fall
Jennifer Massoni Pardini
If we’re on top of our game, we’re usually taking our holiday pictures when it’s peak fall rather than winter. If you don’t want to hold out for that first snow or you live somewhere milder, throw those autumn leaves into the air and capture some seasonal (and childhood) magic.
Capture the magic of the holidays with this one-of-a-kind picture by photographer Leilani Rogers. You might need an extra set of hands and a little bit of time to get it just right, but the results are well worth the commitment.
The best source of inspiration is sometimes right in your own home. Have the entire family recreate a favorite drawing or sketch. Not only will you get chuckles from friends and family, but it’s a great chance to show off your budding Picasso’s artistic skills.
Using props still gives holiday pictures “that certain something." Raid the dress-up bin for silly hats, boas, and superhero masks, or find printables to make your own. Remember, when it comes to dressing up your photos, bigger and brighter is always better!
Decide on a word that describes your family or the holidays, then have each person hold a letter of the word. It’ll add an interesting element to the photo without distracting from your pretty faces!
The local tree farm provides an idyllic (and nearly effortless) backdrop for just about any photo staging. Bring along a toy car (or wagon) and pair it with a wee tree for instant sweetness.
Artistic and retro, the “vinyl face” is a photo trend that works especially for camera-shy tykes. Play around with magazines, books, or movie posters for a variety of expressions. Follow Japanese photographer Hideaki Hamada on Instagram for enchanting photos of his lil’ sons and life around Osaka, Japan.
From Into the Spiderverse to Guardians of the Galaxy and LEGO Ninjago, superheroes never get old when it comes to family photo ideas. Bring on 2024 with power!
Simple silhouettes give family photos a classic touch. Oh, and this idea is super handy when someone isn’t looking their best or if the kids have (already) started making mud pies in their holiday outfits.
Update your friends and loved ones with a chalkboard message that says it all, like this adorable shot we scooped out over at Ryan O'Dowd Photography. Whether it's you or your kids holding the news, adding this small detail makes a standard family pose extra special.
Make sure to capture all the memories—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
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.
Holiday party season is here and these family Christmas games bring all the cheer
Make your next family game night extra special with fun family Christmas games that are sure to keep the kids (and grown-ups!) entertained. Those who enjoy minute-to-win-it games will get a real kick out of the Gingerbread Shuffle, and those who want a good laugh should go for Christmas Mad Libs or Christmas Scattergories. This list has a game for every day leading up to Christmas so get ready for some family fun!
We love the holiday flair that has been added to our favorite game of Scattergories by @michelletripple. Head over to her profile to print off the cards for a fun night filled with laughs.
Elf Monopoly
iStock
Buy, sell, and trade your way to Christmas cheer in this Elf-inspired version of Monopoly. The game tokens include fun figurines like maple syrup, a mailroom coffee cup, Santa's sleigh, and more. Buy it here.
Who’s the smart cookie of the bunch? We love this holiday game because all you need is cookies and no hands. Head over to Not Consumed for the details on how to play this game with the half-pints.
Smells good! Grab your Santa hats, it’s time to play the Christmas smell guessing game. Using seasonal scents like peppermint, pinecones, gingerbread, and cinnamon sticks, your little elves will love this. Head over to Kid Friendly Things to Do for a tutorial on how to play.
Let the games begin! We love this Christmas version of tic-tac-toe you can snag from SCATTERCRAFTED. It's perfect for a quick moment with grandparents or when you're just trying to keep the littles from bouncing off the walls.
Hide-and-seek! If the littles need a game to spice up the holiday magic, Toddler Approved has the perfect Christmas game idea. We love it because kids practice matching numbers, adding, and spelling, while having fun.
Run, run, as fast you can, you can't stop now—it's the gingerbread man relay! The materials for this Christmas game for kids are easy to pull together (think gingerbread cutouts and spatulas), and it's sure to inspire a ton of giggles. Learn more over at Teaching Heart Blog.
Give your holiday party an extra dose of silliness with this Mad Libs game from Happiness is Homemade! The kids will love coming up with a kooky story—and it's a built-in vocab-builder too.
Look no further for a fun Christmas party game! This activity from Play Party Plan involves dice, a wrapped gift from each guest, and a whole lot of laughter. Get started with the free printable, and then see what surprise you end up with!
Charades are always a party hit, which is why we love that A Girl and a Glue Gun whipped up a Christmas-y version. Grab the free printable and get ready to act your heart out!
This Christmas party game from Chanele at Good Life of a Housewife is extra brilliant because it takes a classic game that your kids are probably familiar with (Spoons!), and gives it a peppermint twist.
Does this game ring a bell? Gather your guests around and try this fun idea from I Can Teach My Child. The best part is that this game uses Hershey's Kisses—so no matter your memory, you'll end up with a treat!
Name That Holiday Tune
Ryan J Lane via iStock
Who can hum the best? Give your holiday party a musical upgrade by having everyone hum—and identify—popular holiday songs. Can't carry a tune? Play a game of musical chairs (holiday edition) instead. Head over to Play Party Plan for the perfect playlist!
We love this simple and sweet game. It’s festive, easy, and teaches motor skills, too! Even better: You don’t need a ton of supplies. Find out how to stage your own over at There’s Just One Mommy.
Ring in the holidays with a party game that guarantees a jingle-jangle good time! This obstacle course idea is sensory, active and only requires a little bit of DIY-ability. Learn more at Childhood 101.
Grab a few dozen candy canes and a timer, and host your own candy cane hunt! You can hide your peppermint treats in newly fallen snow or around the house and see how many kids find in 1 minute, 2 minutes, etc. You can even award a prize for the “golden” candy cane—a simple bow or ribbon around the special cane results in an extra special treat.
Turn your house into Whoville and celebrate the day that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes. Using a cut-out heart as a marker, spin your party guests around and let them match the ticker to the Grinch. Head over to Mom’s Tot School for more info.
Three cheers for a fun Minute to Win It game! With this idea, you’ll race the clock in a silly “snow” shoveling activity. It’s a guarantee for giggles and super simple to put together, too. Get the how-to at Housing a Forest.
You may remember a version of this game from your last Halloween party. Here, the mummy wrap with toilet paper gets a Frosty-style twist. Don’t forget the hat, black paper buttons, and orange carrot nose for an extra-special touch. Find out more at Party Wishes.
Do you like warm hugs and party games? This genius idea combines everyone’s fave Frozen sidekick and an easy-to-set-up bowling activity. Best of all, the materials can be found around your house or at your local Dollar Store. Find out more at The Crumby Mummy.
Hold a gift-opening relay race that adds a silly oven mitt challenge. The frenzy to unwrap boxes will be even more fun when the kids are slowed down by mitts. Find out more at Karen’s Ideas Galore.
Want to get in the snowy spirit? This holiday-themed game for kids has all the fun of a snowball fight, without any of the drippy-dirty mess. Make your own snowballs or grab some at your local craft store! Get all the info you need at Just Make Stuff.
Blindfolded Coloring
iStock
Put a twist on a classic childhood activity. Coloring was never so much fun as when you try it blindfolded! The folks over at A Subtle Revelry break it down.
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.
Both Aldi’s beer and wine advent calendars will have the same price as last year
Is it October? Yes. Are we dreaming of Aldi’s wine and cheese advent calendars? Also yes.
The retailer has dropped the 2023 advent calendar collection, and there is definitely something for everyone this year. From global wines and the new Irish Cream Countdown, cozy home decor advent calendars, and pet treats, you’ll want to head to your nearest Aldi on Nov. 1 when the calendars all hit shelves.
Aldi Advent Calendars for Those with a Sophisticated Palate:
Aldi has plenty of holiday cheer to share this year. The Holiday Magic Wine Advent Calendar, in particular, has 24 unique labels and 16 wine varieties from eight countries of origin. Each label has a scannable QR code to learn more about the wine and to explore the region, varietal, and culture of the country.
Other calendars include:
Barissimo Coffee Advent Calendar ($14)
Beer Advent Calendar ($50; in select markets)
Emporium Selection Cheese Advent Calendar ($17)
This must-have calendar is packed with European Cheeses like Dutch Goudas, Red Leicester, and Double Gloucester.
Bay Island Hot Sauce Advent Calendar ($15)
Wicked Grove 12 Days of Cider ($20)
12 Day of Irish Cream Calendar ($30)
Holiday Magic 5 Days of Sweet Red Wine ($20)
Holiday Magic 5 Dayd of Dry Red Wine ($20)
Moser Roth Luxury Chocolate Advent Calendar ($16)
There's even an advent calendar for your pets! The Pure Being Dog Advent Calendar is just $8, and the Pure Being 12 Days of Cat Treats is just $6.
Aldi Advent Calendars for Some Much-Needed Self-Care:
When it comes to self-care this crazy holiday season, Aldi has your back. Choose from seasonal candle calendars and even fun puzzle advent calendars that'll give you a chance to relax.
Huntington Home Advent Calendar ($40)
Merry Moments Advent Calendar Garland ($13)
Mini Puzzle Advent Calendar ($10)
Advent Calendars for Kids:
Aldi's advent calendars for 2023 also offer several fun kids' advent calendars. Cool collectibles and chocolate await with this year's lineup.
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Advent Calendar ($25)
Pokeman/Cocomelon Advent Calendar ($30)
Compound Kings Slime Advent Calendar ($17)
Moose Toys Bluey Advent Calendar ($20)
Zuri Mini Brands Advent Calendar ($30)
Choceur Kids Advent Calendar ($1.50)
As always, supplies are limited, and calendars are expected to sell out fast. Head to your local Aldi on November 1 to commence with the merry-making!
