From witches brew to fairy potions, grab those wands and pick one of these magic potions for Halloween that you can make at home
Part classic science experiment, part Harry Potter, the following concoctions are safe for kids and totally fun to mix up. From fizzing and foaming to bubbling and bewitching, these magic potions for kids can be whipped up in no time. Looking for even more spooky fun? Try your hand at some Halloween crafts, tell kid-friendly ghost stories, and read these witch books that are only a little bit wicked!
Perfect for the spooky season, we love the cute mini pumpkins! Easy to set up and, if you keep it contained, a breeze to clean up, this potion for kids is magical.
Love Potion Lava Lamp
Part love potion, part lava lamp, we're crushing on this concoction from Agnes at Hello, Wonderful. Using simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry, you can whip up your version in no time.
White clouds of witches' brew make these colorful drinks other-worldly. Dry ice is the key to this cool effect (with parent supervision, of course); hot water and soap can thicken the spell. Bubble over to Upstate Ramblings for the tutorial.
A little more effervescent than the lava lamp of the '60s, this potion made from oil, water, and Alka-Seltzer will get your kiddos all bubbly. These elixirs are easy-to-do and exciting to watch. Jamie from Hand On As We Grow has the instructions.
Sweet and colorful, this sugary brew makes the gradient with sugar, water, food coloring, jars, and a dropper. Your little wizard will be amazed at these layers, so pop over to Little Bins for Little Hands for directions.
Just glow with it. Potion-masters-in-training will need a little help from parents on this one, but the effort is worth the glow-in-the-dark effect. Ana Dziengel at Babble Dabble Do mixes corn syrup, baby oil, and water with a few "magic" ingredients for a luminous potion that doubles as a science experiment.
Easy to make with minimal mess, little mix-masters can craft their own swirling nebulas with a mason jar, cotton, water, glitter, and paint. You can thank Trisha over at MomDot for this mystical potion that just might get your little magician calm for her afternoon nap.
Potion-making is as easy as mix, whisk, color, and create! Have your little wizards gather half-bottles of household items like shaving cream, and shampoo, then add spice and dabble-e-doo! You’ve got a magic potion party. This fanciful fest was the inspiration of Bar Rucci over at ArtBar.
Is there anything more natural than kids whipping up a little garden-centric potion on a warm, sunny day? Probably not, which is why we love the setup from Jackie over at Happy Hooligans. With just a few ingredients, your kids can get their dose of outdoor play in a cool setting.
You and your magic-loving tykes aren’t Hogwart’s Alum? No worries, because with a little practice, and a lot of illusion, the kids will be amazing audiences (probably you) in no time. We’ve got seven easy magic tricks, and don’t forget the “Alakazam!”
photo: Gabby Cullen
Paperclip Magic Trick
For our first trick, we chose a simple one with a major WOW factor. A dollar bill and two paperclips are all your magician will need to get “oohs” and “ahhs” from audience members of all ages. Make the magic happen by jumping over to Kids Activity Blog for the how-to.
Color Coded Cards
Card counting isn’t a necessary skill when performing the color card trick, which makes it perfect for tiny magicians’ assistants. Simply separate a deck into black and red stacks (without showing anyone), then ask an audience member to pick, look at, and reinsert a card; after cutting the stack, “magically” select the right card (it should be the only wrong card in a colored stack). If you’re curious about the fine print, Funology has the details.
photo: Shelley Massey
Awesome Illusions
Your older brainiacs may know the secret behind plastic and polymers, so this “magic” trick is a great way to have your science pros impress any younger siblings. We’ve got the scoop for any sorcerers’ assistants right here.
Disappearing Coin Magic Trick
Beginning illusionists will really need to get their hocus pocus working if they want to make a coin disappear. From sweeping the coin under the table to saying the magic words, kids trying this trick will learn that practice makes perfect, and a lot of hand waving helps. You can get the whole tutorial over at Kid Spot.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Floating Toothpick Magic Trick
This trick gives liquid soap a little mojo (we aren’t talking dirty dishes). Getting the five toothpicks to stay in the right place while floating in the water will be your little magician’s hardest challenge. This trick is all about the science of water and surface tension, so kids will be learning a little something, too! You can find out how to master this gimmick over at Kid Zone.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Magnetic Pencil Magic Trick
From levitating, and rubber-esque scribblers, to sticking a #2 through your head; there is more than one way to perform a magic pencil trick. The one we like for beginning magicians will defy the laws of magnetic forces—the pencil will seem to be stuck to the performer’s hand. Magneto would approve! Find out how to perfect this trick here.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Coin-in-Matchbox Magic Trick
Presto! The classic coin-in-matchbox not only looks super cool, but after a few practice rounds, it’s a trick even a muggle can manage. You don’t need anything but the box, a coin, and a few views of this awesome tutorial from Instructables.
Why was Chicago blushing at the party? Find out by reading this hilarious list of laugh-out-loud funny jokes that Chicago kids will adore.
If you find yourself on chaperone duty for a school field trip or want to pep up mealtime with your kids, the best way to keep them entertained is to have silly jokes on the ready. Even if they’re not SNL-quality, the kids will love the cheese. They’ll hover on the edge of their seats (figuratively), waiting for you to deliver the wholesome punchlines. For an easy and free way to entertain kids, here are some tried and true Chicago-themed jokes that will make them chuckle.
These all-ages New Year’s Eve events throughout Washington, DC will let your kids celebrate and still make bedtime
It’s almost time to say goodbye to 2022 and look forward to the coming year ahead. New Year’s Eve celebrations typically center around the famous transition from one year to the next: midnight. But, let’s face it, most kids can’t hang until the ball drops—nor can some exhausted parents! We’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly events to help celebrate the upcoming year and many end by noon! Whether you’re looking for a simple mid-day balloon drop or an elegant, over-the-top kid-only ball, we rounded up more than 30 epic ways to spend New Year’s Eve in the DMV.
Free Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events near Washington, DC
Metrobar's First New Year's Eve Party Let the littles have some New Year's fun while still getting them in to bed on time! There will be kid-friendly activities and games and plenty of sparkling "c" for everyone (that's champagne for the over 21 crowd and good ol' fashioned cider for the under crowd). This outdoor bar keeps everyone toasty with campfires, patio heaters and hot chocolate. The ball drops at 7 p.m. so you can tuck the kids in by 8!.
Watch Night Falls Church This family-friendly event is totally free (including parking); there are even free shuttles that run every 20 minutes from East Falls Church Metro so that you and your littles can take part in this town's annual festivities without spending a dime. GrandFun Alley features rock climbing, bungee jumps an inflatable obstacle course (and more!) for action-packed fun. Live entertainment includes swing music from Big Band Northern Lights Orchestra and kid-friendly shows include a puppet performance and balloon artistry.
Free NYE Events at your Local Library If you're looking for a 12 o'clock celebration in the middle of the day, head to your local library where area branches are celebrating at the stroke of noon with crafts, books and dance parties. Each of these participating libraries is hosting a "countdown to noon," with the exception of MLK Jr. Library, which is hosting a wish-making craft.
First Night Alexandria Alexandria's annual event includes all-day entertainment featuring rising stars along seasoned performers. Celebrate with kid-friendly music acts at the Rockin' New Years Eve Party from noon to 5 p.m.. Primetime performances (6-10 p.m.) include a magic act by Mike Rose Magic. For the grand finale at midnight, look up for a spectacular fireworks display.
Rock Out with Rocknoceros Rocknoceros is hosting this countdown to noon at Jammin' Java for a totally kid-friendly New Year's Eve Ball. Come celebrate with a cup of sparkling apple juice and watch the disco ball be lowered on stage at noon.
Get your party on while rocking out to local DJs at this free (and fabulous!) waterfront event. Hop on the miniature train to get a quick lay of the land before taking a ride down the inflatable slide. There is also a glitter tattoo artist, a magician, craft stations and more. At noon, get ready to count down at this family friendly celebration.
Freedom's Eve: Watch NIght's Concert Hosted by the African American History and Culture Museum, this virtual concert features musical prodigy Matthew Whitaker performing live. There will be a discussion of the significance of Watch Night as well as a non-denominational blessing. Reservations are encouraged for this performance. It will also be available on demand through Jan. 31.
Midnight Noon Rock out to science-themed pop tunes at The Maryland Science Center's annual NYE event. This popular B'more tradition gives kids the opportunity to see the ball drop before bedtime while dancing to the pithy sounds of Marsha and the Positrons. There will be fun New Year’s festivities throughout the day plus the chance to explore three-levels of hands-on science exhibits.
New Year's Eve Kids Party at Salamander Resort Skip the sitter this New Year's Eve and let your kids attend this NYE ball solo while you dance the night away next door (kids 5 & under must be accompanied by an adult). There will be a DJ and dancing from 8 p.m. to midnight when a balloon drop marks the New Year. This event is open to hotel guests and NYE party attendees.
Cost: $150 When: Dec. 31 from 8 p.m.-midnight
500 North Pendleton St. Middleburg, VA Online:eventbrite.com
Crafty New Year’s Eve Events for Kids near Washington, DC
New Year's Eve Around the World Make noisemakers and sparkly slime at the Children's Science Center in Fairfax, VA. Choose one of two time slots (one ends at noon!) and wrap up your festivities at a kid-friendly hour. Each 2-hour times lot includes New Year's Eve-inspired science experiments.
Cost: $15 When: Dec. 31 from 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m.
1948 Fair Oaks Mall Fairfax, VA Online:childsci.org
New Year's Eve Craft at Kidcreate For kids 3-9, New Year's Eve comes early at this kid-crafting studio in Ashburn, VA. Kids will get to create their own party favors, like noise makers and party hats while parents sneak in an end-of-the-year date at this "parents day off" event.
Cost: $59 When: Dec. 30 at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
42775 Generation Dr Suite 180 Ashburn, VA Online:kidcreate.com
Adventure-Filled New Year’s Eve Events for Kids near Washington, DC
Adventure Park USA's New Year's Eve Party Spend the night playing video games, bowling, rope climbing, challenging your family to laser tag and more at this indoor/outdoor Maryland amusement park.The party starts at 9:30 p.m. and ends with a massive balloon drop at midnight.
Cost: $29.95 Date: Dec. 31 from 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Smokey Bear's New Year's Eve Countdown Celebrate New Year's Eve with the big bear himself, Smokey! Snuggle up to a roaring campfire to roast s'mores and get ready for some NYE-themed activities and projects at the Maydale Nature Center.
Lights on the Bay This light display is a drive-thru attraction that features over two miles of lights along the Chesapeake Bay. Lights on the Bay boasts over 70 animated and stationery exhibits. For an additional $5, guests can purchase 3-D glasses for a truly unique experience.
Ice & Lights at Cameron Run Take a stroll through a tunnel of rainbow lights, walk under sparkling arches and around illuminated trees and—if you catch a chill—be sure to pop in a heated igloo. After you walk through the 20′ tree, be sure to test out your skating skills at the near-by rink.
4001 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA Online:novaparks.com
Garden Lights of Brookside Gardens In keeping with a botanical theme, Brookside offers a colorful parade of animals, flowers and more. After you’ve enjoyed strolling from garden to garden, be sure to check out the model train display inside the Conservatory.
Enchant Christmas If bigger is better, this football-field sized wonderland should be on your must-see holiday bucket list. Stroll through the Enchant Eatery for magical gifts and gourmet treats, take a whirl on the illuminated ice skating rink and get lost in a maze of lights.
Cost: $23-35/person Dates: You must reserve your ticket prior to arrival; closes Jan. 1
Unlike the other light displays on our list, you have a bit more time to squeeze this festival in to your winter plans, but we included it on this round-up for its New Year's significance. Chinese lanterns holds important significance at Chinese New Year's events due to their symbolic nature of illuminating the future. Kick start your own New Year with over 10,000 handmade Chinese lanterns and look forward to a bright 2023.
Cost: $17.99/children; $29.99/adults Dates: Thurs.-Sun., now-Feb. from 5-1- p.m.m
If loving Ali Wong‘s third original comedy special Don Wong on Netflix is wong, we don’t want to be right.
With her signature fearlessness, the comedian, writer and actress reveals her wildest fantasies, the challenges of monogamy, and how she really feels about single people, per the official release—and it debuted on Valentine’s Day, naturally.
Wong kicks off her set admitting that she’s “very jealous and bitter” that men with any success in comedy get to date models and actresses, while women—at the top of their game—might find themselves dating a 2-star Yelp magician. “Because when you are a woman with money, power, respect—your romantic options do not expand. They decline.”
She continues to illustrate—in typical raunchy and hysterical color—how gender, power and lies go hand-in-hand. “The lies will set you free.”
“Young men want a woman that’s chill,” she quips. “I have never ever wanted to date a man that was chill, because chill don’t pay the bills.”
She relates the story of a nephew who’s debating breaking up with a woman who’s a “boss at work” so she comes home and thinks she can boss him around. “Aunti Ali” reminds him that “that’s gonna happen.” And the schooling continues. “All women are very good at being extremely unpleasant and holding your happiness and self esteem hostage until we get what we f’ing deserve…That is a superpower that we evolved to compensate for our earning potential. You can’t tell any woman what to do, so you might as well pick the one that can give you health insurance, ok?”
The best moments in Ali Wong’s new Netflix special Don Wong are the ones where her jokes get a little uncomfortable, but they’re so honest and delivered in a lighthearted way that you can’t help but laugh. And while she takes you on a weird journey down fantasy lane and philanderer’s alley, Don Wong ends with reassurance that, in fact, Wong does love her husband, and that he’s a great, supportive guy. And based on the hour before that revelation, you’ll be relieved.
The special is Wong’s third for Netflix after Ali Wong: Baby Cobra (2016) and Ali Wong: Hard Knock Wife (2018), and you can stream it now.
They’re your go-to for stamps, and but when’s the last time you bought birthday presents for your children from the United States Postal Service? Turns out, not only can you buy shipping supplies and stamps online, the USPS has an extensive online shop full of toy trucks, cool t-shirts, toddler costumes, and more. We scoured through the site to bring you our top favorites here.
Editor’s note: At the time of publication all items were in stock. We’ll try to keep this post updated with items that are still available but they go quick!
USPS Post Office Tent
The USPS partnered with Kid Trax for this awesome play tent. Now your mini mail carriers can act out in real style!
You’ve scouted Pinterest for a super cute cake and coordinating food and decor. Now that you’ve got all your RSVPs, how to keep the crowd of kiddos entertained?Don’t stress on the party games, we’ve searched the county for entertainment that comes to you. From wizards to lizards and bubbles of all kinds, scroll down to see our picks for traveling entertainment that will guarantee your party will be epic.
photo courtesy of Bubble Soccer
Bubble Soccer
Kick your party into high gear with San Diego Bubble Soccer. Their dependable team arrives early to set up at your venue (a flat grassy surface is best). They’ll train your guests how to use the gear safely and act as referees for crazy fun, sweat-worthy games. Each player stands in the middle of an inflatable bubble, belts it onto shoulders (back pack style) and holds onto the handles. Then the games begin with goals, cones, balls, and even music supplied by the company (or plug in your own playlist!) Players must be ages 7 and up. Parties start at $300.
If blowing bubbles fascinates your little one, then Best Bubble Parties will be a mind blowing experience for all. Kiddos are sure to remember stepping inside a rainbow and watching a bubbliest create square and even triangular bubbles during the mesmerizing indoor show. Tailor the show to fit your age group with cool bubble science for older kids or outdoor bubble play for any age, or try a combination of the two. Shows start at $175.
Kathy, The Lizard Wizard of San Diego, not only brings the excitement of 25 reptiles to your party she also teaches fascinating facts and instills care and gentleness for animals along the way. (Her patience and knowledge really add to the show). Get ready to touch a blue-tongued skink, a super cute baby turtle, tarantulas and even an 11-foot yellow python! There are opportunities for everyone to wrap themselves up with reptiles, and Kathy’s gentle nature makes kids of all ages feel at ease. Parties last an hour and start at $175.
If a different kind of Slytherin better fits your party’s theme, we’ve found a magician in town who is sure to bring oohs and aahs with his wizarding ways. Joe Mystic has been entertaining children with his magic shows for 25 years. Joe’s party personality comes through loud and clear. He’ll don a robe and transform into Dumbledore or put on his magician’s top hat or parade like a pirate all while performing magical feats sure to keep the crowd entranced. In addition to a straightforward magic show, his hour long preschool package includes simple face painting, magic, and balloon animals to keep the littlest reveler’s attention. Joe is an expert at getting his crowd involved as volunteers and making the birthday boy or girl the star of the show. The magic starts at $175 and is perfect for ages 5 and up.
Want a staff of fun professionals to run the party for you and bring all the excitement of an indoor play place to your venue? You’re in luck! Kid Ventures, the popular indoor playspace with 3 Socal locations, has ventured into the world of mobile parties! Their staff will bring the fun to you including everything for a mini obstacle course, a craft that fits your theme, and parachute games. Enjoy catching up with guests and playing with your kiddo on the big day while their party crew sets up, runs the games, and helps serve the birthday cake. The smiles begin with parties starting at $365. Just click the link below to fill in your deets and someone will get back to you with package options.
The word SAHM (Stay At Home Mom) was not a word I was too familiar with at one time. I was a career woman, bound and determined to defy all odds and prove that I could be supermom and career woman in one awesome cape.
After a few years of 50 hour work weeks, constant travel for my job on top of cheerleading and T-ball games, I had this bright notion that I would come home and try my hand at SAHM-hood and homeschooling. (Major respect for teachers EVERYWHERE!)
How hard could it possibility be to stay home all day with my children?
My expectations of being home every day were so far off that it is comical.
SAHM-ing is hard work. In fact, I think it is one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. Other moms made it look so easy. The blog posts I read about SAHM-hood told me it was be the “best decision a mom could ever make.”
Well, excuse me, but somebody forgot to mention a few things. Here are ten things that no one told me about being a SAHM:
Mommy has multiple meanings. The definition now includes: Wiper of butts, cook, maid, taxi driver, referee, magician, mind-reader, keeper of small useless trinkets and child whisperer.
You will never pee alone again no matter their ages.
In order to avoid having to share your piece of chocolate, you will lower your level of self-respect by hiding in the broom closet to eat it.
Going to the grocery store, alone, is priceless.
When you are around other adults, you totally forget how to carry on adult conversation.
You go to the playground for a break and to see other adults. You might not talk, but there is a silent “I understand” in their eyes.
Even after the kids leave the living room, you find yourself watching Disney Channel (and enjoying it.)
“I’m bored” is the “B” word you want to wash out of their mouth with some soap.
If you had a penny for every time one of your children said, “Hey mom, what if…”
You never understood the concept of love/hate relationships until you became a SAHM.
Yes, SAHM-hood is hard but there is a community of SAHMs out there, including myself, which would not change one single moment. Most of the time, I am tired. I stay frustrated. I daydream about going back to work, but the moment one of my children reaches over and grabs my hand, tells me they love me or I hear one of their awesome laughs, I remember why I am staying home.
Even on my worst days, I cannot imagine life anyway else.
In a town where every 1st grader can spot bad CG, a trip to the Magic Castle promises to wow even the most special effects-savvy among us. The chateau-esque mansion that turns heads no matter how many times you’ve driven past it on Franklin Ave. is for grown ups only, except for a magical Sunday brunch where junior magicians dazzle and delight and young Houdinis are welcome. Get ready for some good old-fashioned fun, right in the heart of Hollywood.
Getting In
It’s important to note that this is a Clubhouse, and like any private club, you need an “in” to get in. This means, to attend the brunch you need to be recommended by a current member, or stay at the Magic Castle Hotel. It’s LA: everyone knows someone. Try posting on your local Mom’s group, mention that you’re looking for guest passes at school drop off and asking the parent of the kid you meet at the playground. You’ll be surprised at how many people are members (or have a college roommate whose cousin is!) and members are always happy to arrange guest passes: they want an audience as much as you want to see the show! It’s not exclusive like the SoHo House or restrictive like bringing guests to Disneyland. We’ve honeslty never known anyone who did not find a way to get in.
It Was A Dark & Stormy Night
Ok, it’s a bright and sunny Sunday. But a Gothic darkness descends as you pull up to the gorgeous clubhouse that sits atop a hill, overlooking the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. Once you valet your car, you’ll step up to a great photo-op for the family in front of the house (red carpet included). Make sure you snap a pic now, since photography is strictly prohibited anywhere inside the castle. But don’t worry, there’s an in-house Photographer on hand to take pics for you (a photo package purchase comes with a free pass to come back).
photo: The Magic Castle c/o Vicki Greenleaf
If These (Magic) Walls Could Talk
Nothing is ordinary here, even doors are too dull for the castle. Secret password? Check. Dusty bookcase creaking open to reveal the secret entrance? Check. And so the adventure begins. Once inside, your kids will go nuts for all the fancy “old-timey” details, from fringed curtains to candelabra.
Be sure to pay a visit to “Invisible Irma”, a piano playing ghost. A Caspar level of scary (so not at all), what you’ll see is a piano play all by itself. The really amazing thing? Irma takes requests, from all eras of music. Simply speak to the chair sitting in front of the piano, make a request and you can be enjoying anything from Disney’s Let It Go to the Beatles Here Comes the Sun. Irma even knows modern music (we tested her out on some Lady Gaga, and she totally earned our Applause). Your kids will have a blast making multiple requests; don’t worry, Irma never gets tired.
Magical Eats, Too
After you’ve listened to your heart’s content, make your way upstairs for brunch. You’ll be greeted by the friendly staff, who will seat you in one of the comfortable chairs in the dining room. The cut-glass windows let in just enough light to make it homey, and you’ll easily settle in once you’re offered a mimosa (bottomless, of course).
Even the pickiest little eaters will be in heaven (we literally heard one kid exclaim that the brunch was “a piece of Paradise!”). With a kid-friendly selection of chicken tenders, grilled cheese, waffles and French fries, your tinies will happily nosh. The grown-ups can choose from prime rib, shrimp, crab legs, a made-to-order omelette bar, salads, fresh bagels, pastries, and more. If you’ve left room for dessert, there’s a variety of adorable miniature sweets with tiny spoons, and a mouth-watering ice cream station, with whipped cream, Oreo cookie crumbles, maraschino cherries and mini M&M’s. Once you’ve had your fill, head on down for the stage show, mimosa in hand. (Yup! Cocktails are allowed!)
photo: The Magic Castle c/o Vicki Greenleaf
Now, It’s Magic Time
There are three chances to be dazzled during your afternoon visit. While dining upstairs, you’ll be given tickets to the Main Show (tickets are included with brunch), which happens in the Palace of Mystery. Be sure to review the show time schedule in advance, and make a plan. It can get crowded, and the other two shows (in the Close Up Gallery and the Parlor of Prestidigitation) are first come, first served. Allow at least 15 minutes before each show to line up and take your seats.
The Close Up Gallery
At this smaller stage, shows take place every 45 minutes during the afternoon, but allow time to get settled before the performance starts. While you wait in line, you may be entertained by one of the in-house magicians, who will perform up-close magic right before your eyes (did that card really just jump to the top of the deck?). They may even teach your kiddo a trick or two.
Once you’re welcomed into the theater, the host makes sure to cater to kids first, ushering all the littles to the front few rows (in fact, the kids get front row at every show). Your mini magician may even be chosen as one of two Kid Assistants, who sit on stage for the entire performance and help with the magic act. The magicians in the Close Up Gallery are often part of the Junior Magician Program (the Magic Castle’s program for young magicians ages 13-20). But don’t let their youth fool you, their magic is wildly impressive
photo: The Magic Castle c/o Vicki Greenleaf
The Parlor Of Prestidigitation
Can’t pronounce it? Don’t worry, your jaw will be on the floor, so you won’t be able to speak anyway! This theater features one of the Magic Castle’s mind-boggling family entertainers, who perform magic appropriate for the children in the audience. The show is full of jokes, so you and your kids will be laughing throughout. All the material is appropriate for tiny ears, and it feels at times like stand-up mixed with magic.
photo: The Magic Castle c/o Vicki Greenleaf
The Palace Of Mystery
This, ladies and gentlemen, is the main event, and the only show of the afternoon that requires tickets (included with brunch). Complete with music, lights, and a sparkly gold curtain, you’ll definitely be treated to the full shebang. The kids are engaged from the very beginning, with the magician talking directly to the first few rows (full of kids), and making them feel special. Kid volunteers are chosen from the audience, and have a blast getting to head up to the high stage and help with the tricks. The magic is varied, and comes flying at you fast and funny.
Divided into two acts, the first is light and witty, while the second act harkens back to older times (think top hat and tails, and a tribute to Singing in the Rain). You’ll enjoy the nostalgic nod to bygone eras, and your kids will be entranced by the sleight of hand magic, all done to music (no words, just enchanting tricks).
Hogwarts in LA?
By the end, your tyke may be eager to be a magician when they grow up. If you happen to have a tween or teen, LA’s version of Hogwarts does exist: a program designed to train young magicians (ages 13-20), the Junior Magicians learn their craft in workshops and enjoy lectures from some of the finest names in magic. No sorting hat required.
photo: The Magic Castle c/o Vicki Greenleaf
The Gift of Magic
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave. With stuffed bunnies, kid’s capes (magic wand included), magician tee-shirts and storybooks on magic, you’ll find lots of fun souvenirs. Teach yourself the tricks of the trade with one of the magic DVD’s ($20), or splurge on a spooky home decoration and get the “changing portrait” ($150), guaranteed to surprise guests.
If you love the Clubhouse and want more frequent access, you can even buy a membership. With several options to choose from, you’re sure to enjoy all the members-only perks, and the ability to dine in Victorian elegance at a discounted rate. Plus, you’ll get access to magic classes for adults, so you can wow your kiddos at home with your new-found wizardry.
The brunch takes place Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Reservations are required. Adults are $39.95 for the buffet and a $20 door fee, and kids 6-10 are $19.95 for the buffet and a $15 door fee. (You must book the brunch, but it’s kid heaven food and they’ll love it!) Kids 5 and under are free, and are welcome, but honestly, most of the magic and jokes will go over their heads, so it’s best for 5 & up.
Late in 2015, Magician Criss Angel received horrific news: his 2-year-old son was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, a type of pediatric cancer. When asked recently by Wonderwall how his son is holding up, Criss said, “he’s doing great. He’s technically in remission, although he has to go through three years of treatment to be assured that the cancer is truly gone, which is incredibly difficult.” Criss has decided to host a benefit event to honor his son as well as other children with cancer.
“On Sept. 12 we’re having big event called Help Heal Every Life Possible and it’s going to benefit the Johnny Christopher Children’s Charitable Foundation. One hundred percent of every dime that’s raised will go to pediatric cancer and children and research and treatment,” said the magician.