Support our Black community and snag a slice of pizza, get a haircut or satisfy your soul food longing today

During the month of February, we celebrate Black History Month and one way to do so is by getting in the habit of shopping and supporting Black-owned Bay Area businesses. From pilates classes and bookstores to pie and coffee, you’ll find a slew of businesses below that your family will love. So go buy yourself a sweet treat, purchase a few gift cards, and support these businesses now and always.

 

Black Owned Bookstores in San Francisco

Multicultural Bookstore
Walk into Tamara Shiloh’s store and you will be transported to a world of multicultural books including sections on LGBTQ, disabilities, and biracial families—everything one could want to teach and learn about diversity and inclusion. 

Marcus Books
The oldest, independent Black bookstore in the country, Oakland’s Marcus Bookstore is over 60 years old and proudly carries books by and about Black people.

Must-Shop Black Owned Shops in the Bay Area

Cincha 
Stylish yet practical, Cincha is a travel belt that secures personal bags and coats to your luggage leaving your hands free to hold on to more important things... like little hands. Every purchase means 100 airline miles is donated to the nonprofit Miles4Migrants, which helps to reconnect migrant families. 

Taylor Jay’s
With the approach that “We Are Every Woman”, this Oakland-based clothing collection prides itself on inclusivity and sustainability for clothing that will not only last a lifetime but look and feel incredible.  

Beija-Flor Naturals
Using fair trade and organic botanical ingredients from Brazil, founder Stevonne Ratliff began crafting skin products to treat her own skin hyper and hypopigmentation. Years later and with stores in Oakland and San Francisco, Beija-Flor carries a full product line for face, hair, and body. 

Iyoba
Born out of a desire to relieve her son’s eczema using natural products, Oakland mom Efiya created what is now her famous artisan soap. Today, she handcrafts organic, natural hair, body, and home products, all of which are paraben, synthetic fragrance, and sulfate free.

Blk Girls Green House
This lovely open-air plant and home goods store is also a community space but currently accepting shopping by appointment only.

Oakland’s Own
Every purchase from this store means an investment back into the Oakland community through youth empowerment, mentoring services, and community programs.

 

Black Owned Restaurants in the Bay Area

Nabolom Bakery & Pizzeria
Since 1976, this family-friendly restaurant has been serving up one-of-a-kind sauce and meat free pizzas on a thin, sourdough crust. Try their take-and-bake pizza and finish baking at home for the irresistible smell to fill up your kitchen. 

Jackie’s
Looking for the Bay area’s best fried chicken and soul food? Look no further. Originally from Texas, Jackie pays homage to the Lone Star state with customer favorites such as Uncle Greg’s ribs and JP’s Chicken & Waffles served up in true Texan style... HUGE.

Z Zoul Cafe
When owners Aref and Dalia and their four children immigrated to San Francisco in 2016, they discovered no authentic Sudanese restaurants in the city. Using generations-old and passed-down family recipes, Z Zoul Cafe was born—be sure to try Dalia’s famous rice pudding. 

Sonoma Crust
Every item is made from scratch with Chef Anne’s vision to be a “flavor pusher”. Waffle sandwiches and chicken tenders are the name of the game here to be washed down with multiple options of iced tea but leave room for the beignets!    

MB’s Place
Award-winning “3 Way” Chili awaits you at MB’s place along with filet mignon burgers and smoked chicken meatball sandwiches—is your mouth watering yet?!

Tastebuds
San Francisco natives Melvin and Helen Simmons’ cafe serves up soul food in this family-owned restaurant where chicken and waffles and southern shrimp and grits will have your tastebuds begging for more! 

Black Owned Dessert & Coffee Shops in the Bay Area

The Giving Pies
Not only does this business make some of the best pies in town (they even come in TINY sizes!), but they also contribute a portion of their profits to E-Sports, a program that partners typical and special needs kids in athletic capacities. 

DeeLee Cakes
The inspiration behind Chef DeReath Times’ creations comes from the memory of her Grandma and a heavy dose of her secret family ingredient… love. Her cinnamon rolls and sweet potato pound cake will blow your socks off!

Yvonne’s Southern Sweets
Yvonne started out by sharing praline treats with friends and co-workers and expanded to cakes, cookies, and pies which led to a contract with Super Bowl 50, and is currently a vendor for the Chase center. 

Sextant Coffee Roasters
Partnering with farms in Ethiopia, Kenya and Colombia, first-generation Ethiopian founder Kinani Ahmed brings the best coffee beans from Africa to San Francisco.

James and the Giant Cupcake 
Using fresh and sustainable ingredients from farmers’ markets, Eurydice Manning’s custom cupcakes and cakes are all the rage at three locations in the Oakland area. 

Rasa Cafe
Rasa in Sanskrit means "flavor" and this cafe uniquely blends influences from Africa with India in their coffee and tea menu—try the award-winning Rose latte! 

Pietisserie
Pietisserie focuses on one thing and one thing alone: PIES. With fifteen toothsome pies to choose from, your dilemma comes down to this: key lime pie or black bottom walnut pie?!

Super Juiced
A queer- and Black-owned smoothie and acai bowl shop, the menu at Super Juiced is seasonal and draws organic ingredients from small, local farms. All their nut milks are made in-house making this the place to go for a delicious (and nutritious) snack in Oakland.  

 

Black Owned Services We Love in the Bay Area

Kutz and Colors Barbershop & Hair Salon
When not delivering quality haircuts, owner “KC” is a basketball coach for at-risk youth and is in the process of fundraising for a community sports complex for all to play safely in.

The Pilates School SF
With a goal of creating strong and balanced bodies, co-owners Ray and Rae started this school to make affordable, quality classical pilates accessible for everyBODY. 

Megah Brown’s
Skilled at cutting any type of hair, talented barber Damion Hunter commands a cult-like following of customers in his store with his casual, relaxed atmosphere and easy conversation. Bonus: he’s great with kids, too! 

Strictly Braids
Beyond a braid salon, owner Ninja also offers classes on braiding so everyone can learn intricate hair braiding. 

Bikes4Life
Offering repairs and sales, Bikes 4 Life is the only Black-owned bike shop in Oakland and has been around for ten years serving the community. 

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When it comes to the best Christmas lights Portland has to offer, these displays are totally lit

The City of Roses should be renamed the City of Lights during the holidays, as far as we’re concerned. Starting right after you finish up Thanksgiving dinner, running throughout the month of December, Portland is ablaze with fun and unique light displays that will brighten up anyone’s day. So after you’ve picked out the perfect tree for the season, fill your thermos with hot chocolate (maybe a hot toddy for the parents), bundle up the kids, and check out these holiday light displays that will brighten your season.

Portland International Raceway Christmas Lights - Winter Wonderland

If you're looking for drive-thru Christmas lights in Portland, head down to the Portland International Raceway for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience.  Recognized throughout the Pacific Northwest as the “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi,” the 30th annual Safeway Winter Wonderland is unlike any light show you’ve ever seen. Spectators become part of the show as they drive through the track, taking in more than 250 set pieces and animated displays along the course. Plus, all proceeds from the event will benefit Sunshine Division's year-round hunger relief efforts.

Good to Know: Tickets range from $48 - $155 depending on vehicle size

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 31, 2022

1940 N. Victory Blvd.
Portland
Online: winterwonderlandportland.com

Related: Our Top Spots for Local Holiday Shopping in Portland

a lighted train runs through the Oregon Zoo during Portland Christmas lights season
courtesy Oregon Zoo

Oregon Zoolights

'Tis the season to check out one of Portland’s most popular light experiences:  ZooLights at, you guessed it, the Oregon Zoo. This larger-than-life display has more than a million and a half lights, plus all your favorite animals, too! You can take it all in two ways: on a classic walk through the grounds or from the comfort of your car during their drive-through experience.

Good to Know: All tickets are timed-entry and must be purchased in advance online. They range from $21-$29, and drive-thru tickets are $65. Remember, Zoo members receive discounted admission.

Dates: Nov. 23, 2022-Jan. 5, 2023 (Closed on Christmas Day)

4001 S.W. Canyon Rd.
Portland
Event details

Related: All Aboard! Holiday Train Rides to Book Now

a lighted reindeer atop a Portland Christmas ship for the lighted boat parade
christmasships.org

Christmas Ships Parade

The Christmas ships are coming! A fleet of ships have sailed down the Willamette and Columbia Rivers every year for 67 years. Grab a perch with a view (restaurants along the route book up quick), pack your thermos and blankets, and watch the floating lights go by. This is a great parade, and the best part is, you can catch it almost every night in December for free. Be sure to check online for when they’ll be closest to you, as the route changes. It's the perfect winter evening activity for tiny boat enthusiasts (and their parents).

Dates: Dec. 3-21, 2022

Related: Your Insider's Guide to the Portland Christmas Ships Is Here

Lighted trees and walkways are part of this Portland Christmas lights display at the Grotto

Christmas Festival of Lights

The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights features more than two million lights and is the largest Christmas choral festival in the world. Enjoy the amazing sounds of local schools, churches, and civic groups as you explore the beautiful property.  Concerts are scheduled each evening and families can also enjoy outdoor caroling, puppet shows, and storytimes. 

Good to Know: Kids 2 and under are free at this display.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 30, 2022 (Closed Christmas Day)

8840 N.E. Skidmore St.
Portland
Online: thegrotto.org

Christmas on the Campground

Drive by or stroll through the Apostolic Faith Church’s campground to enjoy thousands of lights with the kids this year. The lights are on from dusk to dawn at this free display, and music plays at two different times throughout the night. In addition to the life-size nativity scene, the coolest part of the display is hands down the ginormous Christmas tree at the heart of the display. It's the tallest in Southeast Portland, and it's one reason to bring the kids to see this festive display. 

Dates: Nov. 25 - Dec. 31, 2022

5415 S.E. Duke St.
Portland
Online: christmasonthecampground.com

A mom and young daughter among Portland Christmas lights displays smiling
iStock

Lightopia - An Illuminated Journey

Add Lightopia in Hillsboro to your light tour this year.  Families can take in all the beautiful sights as you drive along a half-mile winter landscape. This free display is open for visitors on Sundays through Thursdays, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on weekends until 10 p.m. One thing to note, you'll need a reservation to drive through, so snag one while you can.

Dates: Dec. 3-31, 2022 (Closed Christmas Day)

Gordon Faber Recreation Complex (Hillsboro Stadium)
4450 N.E. Century Blvd.
Hillsboro, OR
Online: hillsboro-oregon.gov

Clackamas County Winter Fair

Head over to the Clackamas County Event Center for the 3rd Annual Winter Fair and Holiday Market. Not only can you enjoy more than 200,000 lights and scenes, but the kids can meet Santa while you check off people on your Christmas list. Admission to the experience is just $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 3-12. Bring your 3 and unders for free.

Dates: Dec. 2-23, 2022

694 N.E. 4th Ave.
Canby, OR
Online: clackamascountyfair.com

Related: 9 Festival Christmas Tree Farms You'll Want to Visit

Enjoy more Portland Christmas lights at these neighborhood displays

Take a stroll on Peacock Lane

One street you absolutely cannot skip is Peacock Lane—known as Portland’s Christmas Street. Located in S.E. Portland, each house on this little street has been taking Christmas cheer to the next level since 1932. From nativity scenes and rotating trees to re-enactments of your favorite holiday characters and movies, Peacock Lane continues to delight visitors from near and far. You can find this super sweet displays along S.E. Peacock Lane between SE Stark and Belmont Streets.

Insider Tip: Families can walk the display without car congestion on pedestrian-only nights. This year they're scheduled for December 15-17.

Dates: Dec. 15-31, 2022
Times: 6-11 p.m.

Online: peacocklane.org

Visit Portland's Most Festive Neighborhoods

Nearly anywhere you drive in Portland, you are likely to see stunning and creative light displays by local families. Holding true to our city's reputation for creativity, you are guaranteed a bright and magical holiday when you live in the City of Roses. Don't forget to pack some hot chocolate and candy canes, to add to the seasonal magic when you head out to one of Portland's many neighborhood light displays. Pile everyone into the car and head to these neighborhoods to see some of the best home grown displays in town. Some of our favorite areas include the Pearl District, Downtown Portland, Alberta, and the Sellwood/Moreland area.

The skies are lighting up this Fourth of July and San Diego is celebrating in its finest red, white and blue. We’ve got all the details on where you and your little firecrackers can watch the best shows in town. From a family-fun weekend on Coronado Island to watching the Big Bay Boom with friends, here are all the places to celebrate July 4th in San Diego with kids.

Coastal San Diego

The Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show 
The Big Bay Boom bash is back with amazing fireworks over the San Diego Bay. What’s unique about this extravaganza is the fireworks are lit from several coastal locations, including Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North and Coronado Ferry Landing. The show is always popular, so consider carpooling or take the San Diego Trolley. Event Details. 

Coronado
Bring the kids and enjoy an entire weekend of patriotic activities on Coronado Island. The Annual Independence Day Parade in Coronado takes place on July 4th at 10:00 down Orange Ave. Watch the Legends in the Sky above Coronado on July 4th at 2 p.m. The United States Navy Parachute Team “The Leap Frogs” is the official parachute demonstration team of the United States Navy. Enjoy a Public Kids Concert from 4 pm - 5 pm and then end the evening with a fireworks display over Glorietta Bay. Local tip: watch Coronado’s fireworks from the golf course or Stingray Point, and don’t drive — walk or bike instead. Event Details.

East County

Julian 
While it’s true Julian is known for apples and mining, the town also has an old-fashioned 4th of July day planned. Camp out on Main Street for a day of family fun at “the best little town parade in America.” This year’s theme is ”Historic Julian Celebrates the 4th." This year you’ll see marching bands and bands including the Emerald Society Bag Pipe Band, Gold Drum and Bugle Corps and Mariachi Continental de San Diego. Antique cars, vintage tractors, belly dancers, World War 2 Submariners, and several comedy entries will appear to complete a fun well-rounded hometown parade. Note: Julian does not have a fireworks display. Event Details. 

El Cajon 
The City of El Cajon will host fireworks on Sat., July 4th at 9:00 pm at Kennedy Park. Event Details. 

Santee Salutes
Santee Salutes Fourth of July ceremony is back, with a full fireworks show launched from Town Center Community Park and West Hills Park. Advanced parking purchase is required and can be purchased here. The Schedule of events includes food vendors and 80z All Stars Concert. Event Details. 

North County Inland

City of Poway

Poway - Old Fashioned Celebration
Bring your family and friends to Old Poway Park and celebrate our country's independence "turn-of-the-20th-century-style". This event will feature patriotic entertainment, western re-enactors, model train displays, free crafts, and old-fashioned games. Tasty treats and train rides will be available for a nominal fee. Event Details. 

Poway Fireworks Show
The City of Poway will host two spectacular firework shows to light up the night sky over Poway High School (15500 Espola Road) and Poway Sportsplex (12349 McIvers Court). Gates at Poway High School open at 6 p.m. for a special viewing party, with games, activities, and a DJ spinning the tunes. $5 per person, children 11 and under are free. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Arrive early to allow time for parking. Event Details. 

San Marcos 
San Marcos hosts one of the most spirited 4th of July Celebrations in North County at Bradley Park. This year's festivities will include carnival games, jumpers and food sales on-site. Guests should plan to bring beach chairs or blankets for lawn seating. Event Details.

Vista
Celebrate Independence Day at Brengle Terrace Park and enjoy a fun-filled Fourth of July BBQ dinner. The DecaDames perform at 7:35 p.m. and the firework display kicks off at 9 p.m. Park admission is $15 per vehicle ($30 for RVs). The Fun-Filled Fourth BBQ Dinner is $65 per person. Entry into the Moonlight Amphitheatre is $5 per person. No walk-in pedestrian traffic is permitted in the park. Event Details. 

North County Inland

photo: Sandy Huffaker/LEGOLAND

Carlsbad: LEGOLAND
The summer heats up at LEGOLAND® California Resort with a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration: Red, White and Boom! Throughout the day, kids of all ages can participate in all-American family picnic games and building activities. The evening fireworks show combines patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics. Red White and Boom!
is included in the cost of regular Park admission. Event Details. 

Del Mar
The San Diego Fair is putting on a specially-designed show for their audience. Celebrate by wearing stars and stripes, eating apple funnel cake and cheering on the fireworks finale. Best viewing will be in the West Avenue and West Gate area. Event Details. 

Oceanside
The annual celebration in honor of Oceanside’s July 3rd birthday and Independence Day will take place this year. Fireworks will begin at 9:00 p.m. on July 3 at El Corazon. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the show from home, but limited capacity viewing areas will be available near El Corazon to spread out. Rancho Del Oro will be closed from Oceanside Boulevard to Mesa, and Ocean Ranch will be closed from Corporate Center to Rancho Del Oro beginning at 5:00 p.m. that evening.  Event Details. 

*Fireworks shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

San Diego Inland

Mira Mesa
The show starts at 9 p.m. Event Details. 

4th of July Picnic Dinner at Maritime Museum 
The observation deck of the Museum’s historic 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley offers guests a spectacular view of the fireworks over San Diego Bay. The holiday dinner will be provided on the upper deck interior of the 1898 Victorian-era steam ferryboat Berkeley, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Guests may check-in for dinner anytime between 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Event Details. 

––Aimee Della Bitta and Beth Shea

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Sure, a winery tour and tasting with kids in tow may not sound like the most family-friendly event, but we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. In fact, many wineries near NYC cater to families, with events, activities, entertainment and more. From nearby vineyards on Long Island to award-winning wineries upstate, we’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly wineries near NYC for you and the family to visit this spring. (And if you’re more of a cider or brewery type of family, we found those, too.) For more family adventures, we recommend these spring day trips, these spots for ziplining near NYC and where you should go cherry picking this season. Cheers!

Pindar Vineyards Tasting Room & Winery

You don't have to go to Europe to experience one of the world's best wine regions. Less than a two-hour drive away, Long Island's North Fork is considered one of the best. Pindar Vineyards was named one of the top six family-friendly wineries by Wine Enthusiast and is open daily for tastings from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The winery also hosts live music on weekends as well as other events like vintage car shows and farmer's markets. In July come by to see sit on the deck and watch the sunset. Feel free to bring a picnic and a blanket to sit on the grounds.  

37645 Main Rd. (Route 25)
Peconic, NY
631-734-6200
Online: www.pindar.net

Ospreys Dominion

Wine tasting, live music on the weekends, picnic tables-a-plenty and lots of room to run around. Plus, outdoor sangria bars. What's not to like? You can also get tasty bites such as oysters and panini. 

44075 Main Rd.
Peconic, NY
631-765-6188
Online: ospreysdominion.com

Millbrook Vineyards & Winery

A Hudson Valley favorite, Millbrook Vineyards and Winery is open for tastings. On weekends (Fri.-Sun.), tastings happen outdoors in a tent ($17/per person), and on weekdays, tastings happen inside. Either way, you should reserve your spot ahead of time. Weekends also bring a selection of food trucks, and there is jazz on Saturdays from 5:30-7:30 starting July 3 ($20 admission, reservations required.) You can also bring your own picnic to lounge and nosh on the green expanse, as the kids run wild. 

26 Wing Rd. 
Millbrook
845-677-8383
Online: millbrookwine.com

RGNY

This 200-acre vineyard on the North Fork of Long Island (a real hotspot of wine production, thanks to ideal climate conditions) grows 14 different grape varieties. Kick back and relax with a glass—like the vineyard's pinot noir, voted best at the NY Wine & Food Classic. They are open for tastings, and while reservations are not required, they are recommended. You can call 631-298-0075 to do so, or reserve via Open Table. (The vineyard, previously owned by the Entenmann family—yes, the treats—was sold in 2018 to the Rivero-González family, who own a vineyard in Parras, Coahuila, Mexico. The name changed from Martha Clara Vineyards to RGNY in 2019.) FYI: If you've always wanted to stomp some grapes, you can get tickets to a fancy "Stomp Party" here this August, and kids are welcome!

For more to do in Riverhead, head to the Long Island Aquarium or get some discount shopping done at Tanger Outlets. And don't forget The Big Duck! 

RGNY
Riverhead, NY
631-298-0075
Online: rgnywine.com

Jamesport Farm Brewery

Also in Riverhead, Jamesport Farm Brewery promises "farm to pint" beers. Indeed, much of its product is made using hops, wheat and barley grown on-site, and food options include cheese plates, backyard brine pickles and a giant pretzel, as well as food truck offerings Friday to Sunday. A wide-open grassy space makes for good lounging, and you can play a round of corn hole if you like. Jamesport Farm Brewery is also dog-friendly. There is one pretty big catch with this lovely spot: no one under 21 is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays, and yes, that includes babies and kids in strollers. However, they do host family-friendly Fridays. (The brewery is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.) 

5873 Sound Ave. 
Riverhead, NY 
844-532-2337
Online: jfbrewery.com

Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard

Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard offers fun for everyone in the family. Stop by wine tastings in a restored, 100-year-old barn from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., daily, then check out The Barnyard with events like pig races, musical hayrides and kids' concerts, and attractions like an obstacle course, jumping pillow, petting zoo, hedge maze and much, much more!

715 Sound Ave.
Mattituck, NY
631-298-0800
Online: harbesfamilyfarm.com

Blue Point Brewery

This homegrown brewery in Patchogue on Long Island, which made its name with a Toasted Lager, moved into some huge new digs recently. It's a beer-lover's heaven, with a dizzying number of beers on tap, in bottles and cans, as well as ciders, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The menu is filled with hearty fare, as well as (fittingly) an oyster bar featuring fresh shucking. Other reasons to like them: kids and dogs are welcome, live music is common and they have a beer advocating making voting day a national holiday! They're open Wednesday through Sunday. 

Blue Pint Brewery
225 W. Main St. 
Patchogue, NY 
631-627-8292
Online: bluepointbrewing.com

Wölffer Estate Vineyard

Wölffer Estate Vineyard Sagaponack is a class act, with stunning grounds, Insta-friendly flights and food and several seating areas for taking it all in. You can experience Wölffer in a few ways: Drop by Sunset Fridays for wine, music and food (no reservation required), or stop by The Wine Stand, (opens late May)a casual affair that has visitors relaxing on the grass and watching the sun set over the vineyard. You can also book a tasting or vineyard tour here; make a reservation up to two weeks in advance on the website. Note that the tasting room is occasionally closed for private events throughout the season. 

139 Sagg Rd. 
Sagaponack, NY
631-537-5106
Online: wolffer.com

Benmarl Winery

Further north and located in Ulster County, is the more relaxed and casual 37-acre Benmarl Winery. Overlooking the Hudson River Valley, Benmarl claims to be the oldest vineyard in America. On weekends, they often make fresh pizza from a wood-fired oven. Reservations are required; make them here.

156 Highland Ave.
Marlboro, NY 
845-236-4265
Online: benmarl.com

Twin Star Orchards

pizza and beer at twin star orchards
Twin Star Orchards

Love yourself some cider? Make haste to Twin Star Orchards, home of Brooklyn Cider House, where they also make wood-fired pizzas and burgers. (Bites like portabello burgers and cheese plates are also available.) Take a stroll down to the pond, shop the on-site farmer's market, enjoy live music on the weekends and even the occasional pig roast. Come back in the fall when you can pick some of the apples used to make the many, many kinds of craft cider available here. Dogs are welcome on leash, seating is first-come, first-served, and the kitchen opens at 12 p.m.

Open Fri.-Sun. 
Twin Star Orchards
155 N. Ohioville Rd.
New Paltz
845-633-8657
Online: twinstarorchards.com

Apple Dave's Distillery

In the fall, a trip to Apple Dave's Orchard and Distillery means you can combine an apple-picking outing with sampling local beers, seasonal cocktails, and wines and ciders from area makers. But it's a great place to visit in the spring, too. Apple Dave's has a dozen apple varieties on 112 acres, plus flower and herb gardens, scenic views and walking trails, live music on weekends and a country store selling doughnuts, produce, pies and gifts. Apple Dave's is one hour from the George Washington Bridge and 20 minutes from Woodbury Commons. 

82 Four Corners Rd.
Warwick, NY 
845-772-1242
Online: appledavesdistillery.com

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It’s the ultimate summer dessert, an occasional bribe, a sweet treat snuck from the freezer at midnight—it’s safe to say we’re obsessed with ice cream (as are our kids). We’ve rounded up a list of the best ice cream shops in every state (plus D.C.) so you can satisfy your sweet tooth all summer long. Keep reading to get the scoop on the ice cream parlors that should be on your radar.

1. Alabama: Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream
With cones, floats, splits and old-fashioned sodas, Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream has something for everyone. Try a scoop of one of Matt’s specialties, like the Creole praline or red velvet cake—you'll be glad you did.

1308 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL

701 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL

Online: mattshomemadeicecream.com

2. Alaska: Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream
During the summer months, Hot Licks is a must. Their ice cream is made in-house in 40-quart batches, and with local flavors like cranberry and wild blueberry, it’s some of the best Alaska has to offer.

3453 College Rd.
Fairbanks, AK

Online: hotlicks.net

3. Arizona: Sweet Republic
From the local Arizona milk and cream to the slow-roasted bananas, everything here is made with care. And with rotating flavors like Meyer lemon, peaches ‘n’ cream and peaberry espresso, you’ll want to come to Sweet Republic again and again to try them all. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

9160 E. Shea Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ

6054 N. 16th St.
Phoenix, AZ

Online: sweetrepublic.com

4. Arkansas: Loblolly Creamery
Loblolly Creamery is a must-stop the next time you’re in Little Rock. Folks in the know love their salted caramel and Little Rocky Road. Ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, from fruit to lavender.

1423 S. Main St.
Little Rock, AR

Online: loblollycreamery.com

5. California: Fentons Creamery
Founded in 1894 in Oakland, Fentons has been a Bay Area favorite ever since. The ice cream is made in small batches (there’s a production tour for curious kids!), and the menu has decadent sundaes to satisfy any dessert connoisseur.

4226 Piedmont Ave.
Oakland, CA

1669 E. Monte Vista Ave.
Vacaville, CA

Online: fentonscreamery.com

 

6. Colorado: Little Man Ice Cream
With a distinctive shop in the shape of an ice cream cone, Little Man serves up nostalgic flavors that your whole crew will love (not to mention some awesome vegan options). And for every scoop of ice cream purchased, Little Man matches that scoop with a donated scoop of rice, beans or other essentials to a community in need.

2620 16th St.
Denver, CO

Online: littlemanicecream.com

7. Connecticut: Arethusa Farm
For the ultimate in ice cream, you really can’t beat Arethusa Farm. Fresh milk is brought from their dairy cows a few miles away to make classic flavors like butter pecan, strawberry and pistachio.

822 Bantam Rd.
Bantam, CT

Online: arethusafarm.com

8. Delaware: Woodside Farm Creamery
The Woodside Farm was established in 1796, but their ice cream operation didn’t get started until 1998. They’ve been a Delaware favorite ever since, offering up flavors like dirt (that’s gummy worms and Oreo cookies in chocolate ice cream) and cake batter. Say hi to the cows after enjoying your scoop.

1310 Little Baltimore Rd.
Hockessin, DE

Online: woodsidefarmcreamery.com

9. Florida: Azucar Ice Cream Company
Be sure to scope out this sweet shop in Little Havana, where you'll find great flavors like platano maduro and rum cake with walnuts.

Online: azucaricecream.com

10. Georgia: Leopold’s Ice Cream
Leopold’s Ice Cream was founded in 1919, and the shop still has old-school charm—the black marble soda fountain, wooden back bar and telephone booth come from the original location. The ice cream is just as delicious as ever, with classic flavors like butter pecan alongside unique seasonal picks like spicy mocha.

212 E. Broughton St.
Savannah, GA

Online: leopoldsicecream.com

 

11. Hawaii: Bubbies Homemade Ice Cream and Desserts
In addition to regular scoops and cones, Bubbies’ specialty is mochi ice cream—a scoop of ice cream that’s wrapped in a layer of chewy mochi (a soft, sweet paste made out of rice). It’s a refreshing treat that’s sure to be an instant family favorite.

7192 Kalanianaole Hwy, Ste. D103
Honolulu, HI

Online: bubbiesicecream.com

12. Idaho: Goody’s Soda Fountain
You won’t regret a visit to Goody’s Soda Fountain—with their massive banana splits and ice cream sodas, there’s no way you’ll leave hungry. They also offer homemade chocolates if you’re in the mood for something different.

1502 N. 13th St.
Boise, ID

Online: goodyssodafountain.com

13. Illinois: The Original Rainbow Cone 

This fun ice cream spot was launched almost 100 years ago, but now they have four locations! Their ice cream trucks can also be found all over the city, and the spot on Navy Pier is especially fun for visitors. They have tons of flavors, plus ice cream cakes and even donuts. 

Online: rainbowcone.com

14. Indiana: The Chief Ice Cream
On a hot summer’s day, you can’t beat a visit to The Chief. Grab a scoop of peanut butter or toasted coconut and head out back to the picnic tables to gobble it up—delicious!

502 W. Lincoln Ave.
Goshen, IN

Online: facebook.com/The-Chief-Ice-Cream-107814395923385

15. Iowa: Heyn’s Premium Ice Cream
It’ll be love at first bite when you visit Heyn’s—the ice cream is made with 14% buttermilk fat content, giving it an extra oomph of creaminess. And with flavors like monster mash (vanilla ice cream with cookie dough, peanut butter and M&Ms) and blueberry cheesecake, you’ll keep coming back for more.

811 S. 1st Ave.
Iowa City, IA

25 Cherry St.
North Liberty, IA

Online: heynsicecream.com

 

16. Kansas: Sylas and Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream
Sylas and Maddy’s takes hand-crafted ice cream to the next level. They use an entire watermelon in every batch of watermelon sherbet, and their pie flavors (think apple pie, key lime pie) contain an entire pie in each bucket of ice cream. Get your scoop in a homemade waffle cone to up the tasty factor.

11925 Strang Line Rd.
Olathe, KS

1014 Massachusetts St.
Lawrence, KS

Online: sylasandmaddysicecream.com

17. Kentucky: The Comfy Cow
The Comfy Cow is serious about making awesome ice cream, and you’ll be able to tell when you sample their flavors. Whether you go for brown butter peanut brittle or cookie monster dough, you won’t be disappointed.

13301 Shelbyville Rd., Ste. 106
Louisville, KY

Additional locations in Louisville and Southern Indiana

Online: thecomfycow.com

18. Louisiana: Creole Creamery
You’ll love the old-school look of New Orleans’ best ice cream parlor, and with rotating flavors like lavender honey and chocolate malt chip, they’ve got something for everyone. If you dare, take the challenge to finish an enormous Tchoupitoulas sundae and earn a spot in their Hall of Fame.

4924 Prytania St.
New Orleans, LA

6260 Vicksburg St.
New Orleans, LA

Online: creolecreamery.com

19. Maine: The Dairy Corner
With more than 70 ice cream flavors to choose from in addition to frozen yogurt and sorbet, it’s safe to say there’s something for everyone at The Dairy Corner. Bring your treats outside to the picnic tables and chairs to enjoy them in the sunshine.

612 US Rte. 1
Scarborough, ME

Online: dairycornericecream.com

20. Maryland: Scottish Highland Creamery
Founded by an Edinburgh native, the Scottish Highland Creamery is a must visit, loved for their super fresh ice cream made with local ingredients, fresh milk, cream and flavorings imported from Italy. Order the Mexican vanilla or the Italian lemon cookie and prepare to be amazed.

314 Tilghman St.
Oxford, MD

Online: scottishhighlandcreamery.com

 

21. Massachusetts: Toscanini’s Ice Cream
Located around the corner from MIT, Toscanini’s has been serving up amazing ice cream to college kids, locals and tourists alike for more than 30 years. Try one of their inventive flavors like B3 (brown sugar, brown butter, and brownies) or sour cherry sorbet.

159 First St.
Cambridge, MA

Online: tosci.com

22. Michigan: Moomers Homemade Ice Cream
This family-owned shop is a real winner, with more than 160 flavors made right in-house (20 of which are available each day). The coolest part? The shop overlooks their dairy farm, meaning you can watch the cows while you gobble up your ice cream.

7263 N. Long Lake Rd.
Traverse City, MI

Online: moomers.com

23. Minnesota: Cup and Cone
This understated hidden gem serves a generous helping of soft serve in a kiddie cone or cup for just .70 cents and that's just one of the things locals love about the Cup and Cone. The lines can go for over a block in the summer but they are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. most day so you can usually find a time to grab a treat. The owners donate proceeds to a special frozen treat (different ice cream treats are featured each month) to the local food shelf, and the Cup and Cone provides gainful summer employment for some of the sweetest local youth.

2126 4th Street
White Bear Lake, MN

Online: cupandconewbl.com 

24. Mississippi: Area 51 Ice Cream
Area 51 prides itself on using only the freshest seasonal produce—from the local farmers market, no less—for its ice creams. The end product is innovative flavors like blackberry goat cheese, green tea latte and salted dark chocolate.

117 W. Commerce St.
Hernando, MS

Online: facebook.com/area51icecream

25. Missouri: Betty Rae's Ice Cream
Newly re-opened under new owners, Betty Rae's still offers unique flavors like Lavender Honey, brown butter & toasted pecans and blood orange creamsicle.

7140 Wornall Rd.
Kansas City, MO, 64114

412 Delaware St.
Kansas City, Mo 64105

Online: bettyraes.com

26. Montana: Big Dipper Ice Cream
On a summer evening, there’s nothing better than a visit to Big Dipper. Relax at their picnic tables while you devour a scoop of their raved-about huckleberry ice cream on a homemade waffle cone.

631 S. Higgins
Missoula, MT

58 N. Last Chance Gulch
Helena, MT

100 N. Broadway
Billings, MT

Online: bigdippericecream.com

27. Nebraska: Ted & Wally’s
An Omaha classic, Ted & Wally’s has been selling their 18% butterfat ice cream since 1984. They’ve got classic flavors like Dutch chocolate alongside more experimental rotating batches like watermelon gazpacho and butter mochi.

1120 Jackson St.
Omaha, NE

6023 Maple St.
Omaha, NE

Online: tedandwallys.com

28. Nevada: Dylan's Family Ice Cream
This mom-and-pop shop is a kid’s ice cream dream. In addition to colorful flavors like circus animal cookies, rainbow sherbet and birthday cake, they’ve got an area with games and a chalkboard just for the little ones.

5960 Losee Rd., Unit 121
North Las Vegas, NV

Online: facebook.com/DylansFamilyIceCream

29. New Hampshire: Jordan’s Ice Creamery
With a huge selection of homemade ice creams, frozen yogurts and sugar-free options, there’s something for everyone at Jordan’s. Try their blueberry pie ice cream (made with Maine berries!) or the coffee heath bar.

894 Rt. 106 N.
Belmont, NH

593 Endicott St. N.
Laconia, NH

Online: facebook.com/jordansic

30. New Jersey: Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream
Cool off with a scoop or two of seriously delicious ice cream at Cliff’s. From butterbeer to s’mores to peach melba, the rotating list of flavors will keep you coming back for repeat visits.

1475 US Hwy 46
Ledgewood, NJ

Online: cliffsicecream.com

Jon H. via Yelp

31. New Mexico: I Scream Ice Cream
I Scream Ice Cream is heaven for the little ones—after you’ve polished off a scoop of cotton candy or raspberry chocolate chunk, head to the back of the store to check out their collection of vintage memorabilia, toys, and games. Go ahead, play a game on the Ms. Pac-Man machine or play dress-up with their collection of masks.

2000 Carlisle Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, NM

Online: facebook.com/isicabq

32. New York: Ample Hills Creamery
New York has enough amazing ice cream parlors to keep your sweet tooth satisfied and then some, but our top pick goes to Ample Hills for their hands-on approach. Their ice cream is pasteurized on site, and almost all their mix-ins are made in-house from scratch. Try The Munchies (pretzel-infused ice cream with Ritz crackers, potato chips, pretzels and M&Ms) or Snap Mallow Pop (marshmallow ice cream with Rice Krispie clusters).

623 Vanderbilt Ave.
Brooklyn, NY

Five additional locations in NYC

Online: amplehills.com

33. North Carolina: The Parlour
After operating out of a converted school bus for two years, The Parlour opened their Durham shop in 2013, and they’ve been serving up delicious 18% butterfat ice cream ever since. Try one of their well-loved, inventive flavors like salted butter caramel, blueberry buttermilk (made with local NC berries) or rosemary olive oil.

117 Market St.
Durham, NC

Online: theparlour.co

34. North Dakota: Pride Dairy
The only small-town creamery remaining in North Dakota, Pride Dairy is a must-visit shop. They still use the same basic recipe from when the creamery started producing ice cream in the 1940s, offering tried-and-true flavors like strawberry cheesecake, chocolate peanut butter and rhubarb-strawberry.

517 Thompson St.
Bottineau, ND

Online: pridedairy.com

35. Ohio: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
You can count on Jeni’s for inventive and delicious flavors—think gooey butter cake, brambleberry crisp, wildberry lavender and Bangkok peanut. You’ll love the smooth taste (thanks to the buttercream base); all their ice creams are made without synthetic flavorings, dyes and off-the-shelf mixes.

714 N. High St.
Columbus, OH

67 N. Main St.
Chagrin Falls, OH

Additional locations across the country

Online: jenis.com

 

36. Oklahoma: Roxy’s Ice Cream Social
Grab a simple scoop or a cookie ice cream sandwich at this Oklahoma City hot spot. Their small-batch ice creams are a local favorite, offering classic flavors like cookies 'n' cream alongside a rotating menu of specialties like bananas foster and graham cracker.

1732 NW 16th St.
Oklahoma City, OK

12220 N. MacArthur Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK

Two additional locations in Oklahoma City

Online: roxysicecream.com

37. Oregon: Salt & Straw
At Salt & Straw, you’ll find crazy unique flavors year round. Whether you’re in the mood for Meyer lemon buttermilk with blueberries, goat cheese marionberry habanero or cinnamon snickerdoodle, you’re going to leave satisfied.

838 NW 23rd Ave.
Portland, OR

3345 SE Division St.
Portland, OR

2035 NE Alberta St.
Portland, OR

Additional locations in Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle and San Francisco

Online: saltandstraw.com

38. Pennsylvania: Penn State Berkey Creamery

Penn State's dairy research started in 1865, and with that came the creamery. They offer dozens of flavors and their world-famous 12 steps to perfect ice cream are legendary. A visit to the area is not complete without a stop at the Creamery.

119 Rodney A. Erickson Food
Science Building
University Park, PA 16802

Online: creamery.psu.edu

39. Rhode Island: Brickley’s Ice Cream
With more than 45 flavors to choose from on any given day, Brickley’s has classic flavors that everyone in your family will love. Get your scoop on a homemade waffle cone and sit back and enjoy the huge portions.

921 Boston Neck Rd.
Narragansett, RI

322 Main St.
Wakefield, RI

Online: facebook.com/brickleysicecream

40. South Carolina: Sweet Cream Company
With a constantly rotating menu, on any given day at Sweet Cream Company, you’ll find ingenious flavors like white chocolate lavender, blueberry crumble and cranberry thyme sorbet. You can also snag a cookie ice cream sandwich—of course, the cookies are made from scratch in-house too.

1627 Main St.
Columbia, SC

Online: sweetcreamcompany.com

 

41. South Dakota: Leones’ Creamery
Leones’ Creamery is a small-town staple with some seriously delicious and unexpected flavors: think blueberry goat cheese, vanilla black pepper and rhubarb. Since the menu is constantly changing, you’ll want to come back again and again.

722 1/2 Main St.
Spearfish, SD

Online: leonescreamery.com

42. Tennessee: Clumpies Ice Cream Co.
Opened by the son of a third-generation candy maker, Clumpies has been a Chattanooga favorite since 1999. Try one of their signature flavors like coconut almond chunk or raspberry sorbet, or go for a specialty like sweet corn blueberry or vegan peanut butter Oreo.

26 Frazier Ave.
Chattanooga, TN

3917 St. Elmo Ave.
Chattanooga, TN

Two additional locations in Chattanooga

Online: clumpies.com

43. Texas: Lick Honest Ice Creams
This Austin hot spot takes honest to heart when making their ice cream—they source milk and cream from a family-owned dairy in central Texas, and their seasonal offerings let the freshest local ingredients shine. Try an old standby like Texas sheet cake or get adventurous with lemon lavender or loquat margarita.

1100 S. Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX

6555 Burnet Rd. #200
Austin, TX

Additional locations in Austin and San Antonio

Online: ilikelick.com

44. Utah: Rowley’s Red Barn
Located right on a farm, Rowley’s is totally worth the trip. They’re famous for their home-grown cherries, so the cherry cheesecake or cherry chocolate chip is a must-try. Or go for an apple cider slush—icy hand-pressed apple cider that can be mixed with vanilla ice cream.

901 S. 300 W.
Santaquin, UT

25 N. 300 W.
Washington, UT

Online: rowleysredbarn.com

45. Vermont: Creemee Stand
Of course Ben & Jerry’s is Vermont’s most famous ice cream empire, but Creemee Stand is another local favorite. With rave-worthy soft serve and hard scoop ice creams, they’ve really got something for everyone. Try their signature maple soft serve, made with fresh Vermont maple syrup.

716 Rte. 100
Wilmington, VT

Online: creemeestand.com

 

46. Virginia: Island Creamery
Since 1975, Island Creamery has been serving up delicious treats to locals and tourists alike on beautiful Chincoteague Island. Sample the muddy butter (chocolate ice cream with nutter butter cookies and peanut butter swirl) or the cantaloupe—you’ll be an instant fan!

6243 Maddox Blvd.
Chincoteague Island, VA

120 N. Main St.
Berlin, MD

Online: islandcreamery.net

47. Washington: Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream
When it comes to ice cream, we’re all about fresh and local, and Molly Moon’s fits the bill. 90% of their ingredients are locally sourced, from milk and cream to honey and fruit. The result is drool-worthy flavors like cherry chunk, honey lavender and cookie chunk that your whole crew will love.

1/2 1622 N. 45th St.
Seattle, WA

7 additional locations in Seattle and Redmond

Online: mollymoon.com

48. Washington D.C.: Ice Cream Jubilee
Started by a corporate lawyer turned ice cream mogul, Ice Cream Jubilee is a must-visit the next time you’re in the District. You’ll love their outside-the-box flavors like snickers snickerdoodle and Thai iced tea.

301 Water St. SE
Washington D.C.

1407 T St. NW
Washington D.C.

Online: icecreamjubilee.com

 

49. West Virginia: Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream
For almost 20 years, Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving up old-fashioned treats that locals and tourists alike love. In addition to the classics like mocha almond and black raspberry, you’ll find a rotating selection of seasonal flavors like lavender honey and lime orange pineapple.

225 Capitol St
Charleston, WV

Online: ellensicecream.com

50. Wisconsin: Sassy Cow Creamery
Head to Sassy Cow for some of the creamiest, freshest ice cream around. You can gaze at the grazing cows as you chow down on your ice cream, and you can also pick up delicious milk and cheese there while you’re at it. Hunker down with a yummy scoop of blueberry cheesecake or caramel chunk.

W4192 Bristol Rd.
Columbus, WI

Online: sassycowcreamery.com

51. Wyoming: Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Huckleberry ice cream, anyone? You’ll find it and lots more at Moo’s, a Wyoming favorite serving up rave-worthy treats. With a rotating menu of 24 flavors, there’s definitely something for everyone in your crew.

110 N. Center St.
Jackson Hole, WY

Online: moosjacksonhole.com

— Susie Foreman

 

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How can we encourage our children to be more adventurous with vegetables while celebrating the Earth? How about growing our own salads and veggies?

But do kids like greens and salads? Yes, they do! Find out how much they like by exploring all the kid-approved lunchbox ideas on teuko.com that include greens and salads.

If you are ready to introduce more home-grown produce into your child’s meal plan, here are 7 kid-friendly vegetables and herbs to grow!

1. Lettuce
Because it is far superior, in taste and also in vitamins, to the store-bought alternative, we love planting lettuce. It is one of our favorite garden greens! You can plant lettuce in the spring, starting two weeks before frost. If you plant lettuce in the fall, you should start sowing again eight weeks before the fall frost. Then, you can harvest lettuce when full size, but just before maturity. The leaves, indeed, taste better when they’re still young and tender – and the kids will love it!

2. Spinach
Spinach can replace lettuce in salads. We love it because it brings more iron, calcium, and vitamins than most cultivated greens, and one of the best sources of vitamins A, B, and C. Though it cannot grow in midsummer, spinach can be planted in very early spring, as well as in fall and even winter in some areas!

3. Cucumbers
With their refreshing crunchiness, cucumbers are easy-care vegetables as they grow quickly as long as they receive consistent watering and warmth! Did you know that you can get cucumbers year-round? Yes, indeed, by making successive plantings (every two weeks for continued harvests, as long as you have warm soil), cucumbers will grow quickly and ripen in about six weeks!

Oh! And don’t let cucumbers get too large before you pick them, or they will taste bitter and that would not be a big win for the kiddos’ lunch!

4. Cherry Tomatoes
Now let’s ditch the greens and have touches of red in the garden and in the lunchbox! Cherry tomatoes can be planted outdoors in late spring and in early summer. The exact days to harvest has an average of 60 days, and as long as they’re not stolen by wildlife (raccoons stole all the cherry tomatoes planted by the Teuko Kids last summer!), you will enjoy the savor immensely!

5. Radishes  
Other plants very easy to grow are radishes. These root vegetables are crunchy and fresh and bring a lovely pink color to the salad! Radishes can be planted several times in spring and in fall, and they can be harvested as soon as three weeks after planting!

6. Cilantro
What about adding additional flavor to the salad? Aromatic herbs like cilantro will definitely help. Though the leaves and seeds are used most often, did you know that cilantro is entirely edible? Cilantro is a fast-growing plant that grows best in the cooler weather of spring and fall. Try it in salads and in soups.

7. Basil
The other aromatic herb we want to highlight and that is easy to grow is basil. Like cilantro, basil brings an extra delightful touch in salads and in soups. Pair basil with tomatoes, olive oil, and sea salt (fleur de sel is the ultimate gourmet touch), and voilà! a delicious salad the whole family will enjoy. Basil needs a warm-weather environment, with sunlight, but it can perform well in partial sun too!

Wait! What if I don’t have any outdoor space?

Don’t worry! Solutions exist to grow veggies easily at home! Here are our top 3 picks:

1. The least expensive solution is a portable mini greenhouse.

2. An hydroponic system‘s indoor garden germination kit is designed with a water circulation system, increasing the oxygen in the water. Plants are growing in the nutrient water faster than soil.

3. Named the best invention by TIME Magazine, Gardyn is like a farmers market for your home! You can enjoy up to 30 fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs all growing at once!

Where can I get seeds to start growing my own veggies and herbs?

Our friends at Bank On Seeds, a small employee-owned and operated company that wants to help people grow their own food regardless of experience or available space, offer a Salad Pack Mini—a seed selection packed with popular salad bases and toppings. It is curated for indoor and small space growers. These plants are just as happy in a window box as they are filling out an outdoor garden bed.

 

This post originally appeared on Teuko Blog.

Teuko is the first platform that empowers families to simplify lunch packing. Using Teuko, they can find and share kid-approved lunchbox ideas, recipes, and tips, all in one place. Teuko is transforming the lunch packing experience by boosting inspiration and motivation week after week. 

Kick off your holiday season with a family visit to your local Christmas tree farm. These local spots offer Christmas trees of ever shape and size along with fun activities for the whole family like hot cocoa and hay rides. You’ll find a ton of Christmas tree farms in Orange County and a slew more in LA if you are up for the drive. Find the perfect one today!

iStock

Tanaka Farms
You'll find Christmas trees shipped in fresh from Oregon along with wreaths, garland and all the holiday decor you need to deck out your house. They even offer delivery and flocking if that's your jam.

5380 3/4 University Dr.
Irvine, CA
Online: tanakafarms.com

Richfield Pines – The Christmas Tree Farm
Since 1977, generations of families have made Richfield pines a part of their Christmas tradition. Here you'll find 10 acres of live, fresh, fragrant Monterrey Pines. They are the only Southern California Christmas tree grower with trees in the 15 to 20-foot size range.

5392 Richfield Rd.
Yorba Linda, CA 
Online: richfieldpines.com

iStock

Peltzer Pines
For generations, Peltzer Pines Christmas tree farms have grown gorgeous Monterey Pine and Leyland Cypress trees. They offer acres of space for you to find the perfect Christmas tree this season. All of their trees are uncut so you get the opportunity to choose your very own tree and have it cut right there on the spot. 

3400 Rose Drive
Brea, CA

7851 Blackstar Canyon Road
Silverado, CA
Online: peltzerpines.com

Farmakis Farms
Located in the community of historical San Juan Capistrano, this spot is a family-owned and operated Christmas tree farm and certified farmers’ market. As you walk through the field of trees, you have the option of selecting from home-grown California Monterey Pine or Leyland Cypress trees that are still in the ground or fresh Noble, Nordmann, Douglas, Silvertip, Grand, and Fraser Fir trees from their grower in Oregon.

29932 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Online: farmakisfarms.com

Snowy Pines Christmas Trees
Snowy Pines has been serving Southern California for 45 years now. They have the largest selection of Christmas trees over any other Christmas tree lot. You'll find trees from 1-20 feet. They carry Noble fir, Nordmans fir, Grand Firs, Douglas Firs and silver-tips (Charlie Brown trees)

6701 E. Pacific Coast Hwy.
Long Beach, CA
Online: snowypineschristmastrees.com

—Kate Loweth

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Earth Day is Apr. 22 so naturally we’ve rounded up a bunch of crafts that honor this great planet we live on. From recycled crafts for kids that include pressed flower bookmarks to leaf art and a bird bath, these EarthDay crafts are some majorly inspirational ways to reuse, repurpose, and really have fun this April.

Earth-Friendly Milk & Vinegar Plastic

Little Bins for Little Hands

What happens when you combine milk and vinegar? Earth-friendly plastic! This simple to execute kitchen science experiment from Little Bins for Little Hands uses natural products and results in a fun craft when you shape and color to look like the earth. 

Earth Day Slime

A Sparkle of Genius

While not every parent is in love with this ooey, gooey trend, this Earth Day Slime from A Sparkle of Genius is a fun way to celebrate. Water, borax, glue and lots of fun glitter come together to make this festive craft come to life.

Pressed Flower Bookmarks

Floraholaxnyc via Etsy

Gather up some flowers and leaves and preserve them forever! This easy craft can be done using a laminator or contact paper and celebrates the great Earth's beauty. You can find an easy tutorial over at Buggy & Buddy.

Leaf Art

Fireflies & Mud Pies

Celebrate the beauty of our wonderful planet by creating art! Use natural ingredients like grass, leaves and sticks pairs with a little paint like this cute craft from Fireflies & Mudpies.

DIY Bird Bath

The Chirping Moms

This bright and cheery craft from The Chirping Moms welcomes little birdies to the neighborhood. Basic terra-cotta pots are painted and assembled before adding water. Let the bird-watching begin!

Painted Wood Slices

Homegrown Friends

Settle in for some therapeutic painting with this wood slice craft from Homegrown Friends. Kiddos will enjoy using a new art medium and learning about the different textures found on each slice of wood.

Grass People

Toddler Approved

Commune with nature and use materials you have on find to make your own tin can salon. This fun craft from Toddler Approved uses recyclable materials and some fun crafting supplies to make the cutest grass people you'll ever see.

Stained Glass Earth Painting

Royal Baloo

This easy peasy craft from Royal Baloo just requires wax paper, paint, brushes and a little black paper. Kiddos can express themselves creatively, then trim into an earth shape and hang in a window for a gorgeous stained glass effect.

Eco Bead Bracelet

In the Playroom

Turn your creativity into fashion with an eco bead bracelet like this one from In the Playroom. You can purchase a fun kit like this one from Amazon that turns strips of paper into works of art in a flash.

DIY Garden Stakes

Mod Podge Rocks

Spend some time celebrating the bounty of our great planet Earth with a fun DIY craft like these Garden Stakes from Mod Podge Rocks. Upcycle those mason jar lids and either print out a cute label or let the kiddos make a sweet drawing to mark each of your home grown veggies.

Earth Day Newspaper Garland

Kitchen Counter Chronicle

The best way to celebrate Earth Day? With a newspaper garland, of course! Kitchen Counter Chronicle has the lowdown on how to top off your festivities with perfect paper planets.

Painted Garden Sticks

Sweet Thing Designs

If you’re looking for an easy-peasy, earth-pleasing garden decoration, try this idea from Sweet Thing Designs. The kids will love finding sticks and then jazzing them up!

Tin Can Windchimes

Hands On As We Grow

This craft from Hands on As We Grow is music to our ears! All you need to make your own wonderful windchime is a few cans from your recycling bin. Let your little artists decorate before assembly for that extra special touch.

Egg Carton Millennium Falcon

The Weisse Guys

Travel to a galaxy far, far away with the help of an upcycled egg carton and The Weisse Guys. Not only does this idea give new life to an item you’d normally toss, it also makes playtime worthy of a Wookiee.

Coffee Filter Earth

I Heart Crafty Things

Here’s a simple craft idea that won’t require any crazy supplies. I Heart Crafty Things explains how to make a pretty earth using a coffee filter, markers, and a bit of water.

Coiled Magazine Paper Bowls

Frugal Upstate

This craft from Frugal Upstate is a little more time consuming, but easy enough for little hands to master. Plus, it’s the perfect way to spend a rainy spring day.

Earth Day Collage

I Heart Crafty Things

Make a cool collage for Earth Day! It's easy to repurpose old magazines to make a brand new piece of earth-inspired art. Hop over to I Heart Crafty Things to get the full instructions.

Gum Leaf Necklaces

Let the Children Play

It doesn’t get much simpler than this cute craft idea from Let the Children Play. Just gather a few leaves and let the kiddos decorate them with markers or paint, then string them together to make a swanky necklace.

Earth Mosaic

Makes & Takes

Let the whole neighborhood know that your psyched for Earth Day! Thanks to Make and Takes, you can turn cardboard into a magical earth mosaic for your window, .

Peanut Butter Bird Feeder

Tinkerlab

Gather some pinecones from your backyard or local park and make a few feathered friends very happy with these bird feeders. Head to Tinkerlab to get the instructions.

Puffy Paint Earth

No Time for Flashcards

Encourage the kiddos to get their hands dirty with this cute idea from No Time for Flashcards. Mix up some puffy paint using shaving cream, white glue, and green paint, and then give your little Picasso free rein.

Toilet Paper Roll Animals

Untrained Housewife

Turn a toilet paper roll into a cute animal—from bunnies to butterflies, the sky’s the limit. Find a few different tutorials over at Untrained Housewife.

Recycled Paper Hearts

No Time for Flashcards

Make use of the scrap paper that’s hanging around the house by making your own recycled paper. Check out the (surprisingly simple!) directions at No Time for Flashcards.

–– Susie Foresman & Karly Wood

 

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Can you feel it? From the temperature changes to the smell of chestnuts roasting over an open fire, and the holidays “deals” flooding your inbox, December and the holiday season are officially here! With gift-giving at the top of everyone’s mind and little ones dreaming about what special presents they will receive, parents are beginning their search for the best toys, games, and activities for their kids to enjoy. While receiving toys always brings joy to every child, studies have shown that an environment with fewer toys is better for your child’s overall development, allowing them to engage in healthier play, leading to deeper cognitive development.

With endless options for what to gift that special child in your life, consider thinking outside of the proverbial “present box” and inspire your child with the gift of an experience! There are loads of experiences that will fuel their imaginations, promote positive social interaction and gives both the child and the gift giver memories that will last far beyond a single day!  Experience gifts can be one-time adventures or ongoing occurrences, extravagant or home-grown, elaborate or simple.  Below are just a few examples!

1. Tickets to an event: Whether it’s a concert, play, sporting event, or even a monster truck rally, looking forward to an upcoming event can be almost as exciting as going to it. By simply exposing kids to the Arts and creative outlets, they might be inspired to try it out for themselves.

2. Membership to a children’s museum, zoo or amusement park: An annual pass to nearby attractions encourages family outings and helps create priceless family memories that can last a lifetime in your child’s mind.

3. Classes in a Child-Focused Program: Places like The Little Gym, an art studio, or cooking class come with the opportunity to improve existing skills and learn new ones. Programs like The Little Gym allow children to build their self-confidence, make new friends and express their unique personalities in a fun, warm, nurturing and safe environment. These are skills that will last well beyond a single day, more like their lifetime!

4. A coupon for an outing: Parents can let their child choose their own adventure, whether it be an outing to their favorite playground with a picnic lunch or a trip to the movies and a beloved homemade dinner. This one-on-one time is a unique gift for both the child and the gift-giver.

Experiences like child-centered programs, memberships at local attractions, or monthly subscriptions to kid-friendly magazines, books, crafts, or science activities are all great choices for experiential gifts! Remember, it’s the thoughtfulness behind the experience and the time spent together that really counts.

Experienced Director in Curriculum and Training with a demonstrated history of working in the entertainment, education, health wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in nonprofit organizations, event planning, customer service, franchising, entrepreneurship, coaching and sales. 

Portland is an incredible destination for year-round adventures but during the fall and winter months it is a downright magical place to be. Whether you’re itching to discover what makes the city weird or craving a Pacific Northwest holiday, the City of Roses is guaranteed to deliver on a family vacation you’ll never forget. Put in for your days off and get your travel itinerary ready, we’ve put together a guide to three perfect days in Portland, and it includes all of the must-experience major attractions and under-appreciated to-dos the city has to offer. Read on to find out more.

Day 1

photo: iStock

Take a ride on a Portland Street Car. This very Portland-y mode of transportation takes you right through the popular Pearl District where you will find one of the city's most iconic stores: Powell’s City of Books. You can’t leave Portland without perusing the largest new and used bookstore in the world! Powell’s takes up an entire city block, has 9 color-coded rooms with over 3,500 sections and approximately 1 million books. Tie up all of your holiday shopping in this one cool spot!

Celebrate the last of the harvest season, with a trip to Beaverton’s Farmers Market—Oregon’s largest all-agricultural market. You’ll find fresh local produce, artisan food products and some of the best local entertainment. Fuel up with some tasty bites while taking in the home-grown musical flavor! Note: the market is only open through the end of November.

A visit to the Oregon Zoo is a must while you are in town. If your visit takes place late November through December you are in luck. Zoo Lights is one of Portland’s most iconic holiday traditions. The event draws thousands of spectators eager to view the more than 1.5 million lights on display across the property.

Time to check into your hotel! We recommend a Marriott International hotel; they have created a shopping package that takes advantage of Oregon’s tax-free shopping (bonus: free money over the holidays!). Click here to learn more and save this holiday season.

Day 2

photo: chw4r7z via flickr

There’s no better way to start your day than with a coffee from one of Portland’s famous roasters. Grab a cup at the Pearl District's Coava where you can also purchase a bag of beans to take home with you and savor.

If live theater is your thing, indulge in the spirit of the season while taking in a show at the Center Stage at the Armory. This theater is home to the largest theater company in Portland and one of the top 20 regional theaters in the country. You can catch The Second City’s A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens from Nov. 27 through Dec. 23 for a humorous take on the classic tale. Or purchase tickets to A Christmas Paired with Winter Song, a touching holiday story accompanied by the most beloved tunes.

For a taste of Portland’s superior ethnic dining experience, head to Nak Won in Beaverton for scrumptious Korean cuisine with the reputation for being some of the best food in Portland. This area is also home to the renowned Vida Veggie, which serves incredible organic Latin-inspired vegetarian and vegan food that even meat-eaters will appreciate.

After you’ve fueled up for the afternoon, embark on the Beaverton wine trail. This adventure will take out to Cooper Mountain Vineyards at the top of Cooper Mountain in southwest Beaverton. From there you move on to Hamacher Wines at Ponzi Historic Estate where you can sip on wines from both Hamacher and Ponzi.

Day 3

photo: The Oregon Garden

A visit to Portland isn’t complete without a visit to Pioneer Square. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Square’s tree lighting takes place on Nov. 23 and Santa is sure to make an appearance. Take advantage and get your family pics with the jolly old saint.

Take a stroll in one or two of the scenic parks that call the Pearl District home. Jamison Square is one of the area’s most iconic parks. During the hot summer months, families flock to it to let their kids cool off in its interactive fountains that are designed to function like tidal pools. While the water doesn’t run throughout the colder months, it maintains its appeal with plenty of stone benches to sit and relax on while enjoying the festive tree and decorative lighting.

For an expansive park with a play area try North Park Blocks. Or, wind your way along paths through Tanner Springs Park where you can experience a preserved wetland with a spring-fed pond located right in the heart of the Pearl! When you’ve worked up an appetite, there is an array of family-friendly eateries in the area. Grab a slice of pie at Hot Lips Pizza or dine in style at the ever-popular Andina.

If holiday photos and shopping are on your list of to-dos, head to the Beaverton area's Washington Square Mall where you can visit Santa’s Headquarters and grab a quick shot with the magical man himself and pick up some gifts for your loved ones. If you get done fast, there are coffee shops, parks and the Tualatin Nature Park nearby for some extra fun.

End your stay with a visit to Portland’s Japanese Garden where you can immerse yourself in the Japanese culture while checking out exhibits, wandering through the gardens and a bite and sip in Unami Café before heading back to check out of your Marriott hotel.

—Annette Benedetti

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