Celebrate Stars & Stripes: Fourth of July Festivities for Families

by Allison SutcliffeJune 14, 2022

Do your Fourth of July festivities center around a backyard BBQ and kids’ crafts at your place? Or are you more about spending the day waiting to see Boston’s most epic fireworks display over the Harbor? Either way, we think this year’s Independence Day celebration is going to be a blast, especially since so many Boston favorites are back this year. So grab the kids and your best red, white and blue accessories, then head out to find our favorite fireworks displays, parades, historical reenactments and more. Here’s where Boston families can celebrate July 4th in 2022!

Boston’s Best 4th of July Celebrations

the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on 4th of July at Hatch Shell — Michael Blanchard

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Boston's main event returns for the first time since 2019! Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops will be at the Esplanade performing their acclaimed Fireworks Spectacular that includes the Tanglewood Festival Chorus and the Middlesex County Volunteers Fifes & Drums. The program will be live from the stage of the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade Shed, and will be broadcast locally on Channel 7.

Date: Jul. 4,
Time: 8-11 p.m.
Event details

Boston 4th of July Harborfest parade goes down the street — Richard Dykes via unsplash

Boston Harborfest
Boston Harborfest, the decades-old tradition celebrating Boston’s harbor and history, makes it 2022 debut with exciting activities at Boston’s best landmarks. This family-friendly event is one of the country’s largest Fourth of July festivals, and local families can enjoy the opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, boat tours, live entertainment and much more.

Good to know: The Harborfest Fireworks display is scheduled for July 2, 2022. Be sure to catch the family-friendly pre-fireworks concert at Christopher Columbus Park first.

Dates: Jul. 1-4, 2022
Event details

246th Independence Day Celebration
City Hall Plaza is the starting point of this short parade that passes by the Granary Burial Ground, where wreaths will be laid on the graves of patriots. The parade continues through Downtown Crossing past other historical spots before the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company reads the Declaration of Independence.

Date: Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

Independence Day Parades & Festivals Beyond Boston

a family watches fireworks on 4th of july — iStock

Plymouth's 4th of July Celebration
If a fun run, parade, food trucks, concerts and fireworks are the way you want to celebrate the 4th, head to Plymouth to enjoy the festivities. The 5K starts bright and early and is followed by a fun-filled parade. Round out your trip south with live music and food trucks before fireworks light up the sky over the harbor at dusk.

Date: Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

Fireworks at Polar Park
Take the kids out to a ballgame with a side of fireworks after the last pitch flies at Polar Park. Home of Boston's minor league team, the WooSox, Polar Park will be hosting patriotic-themed fireworks for fans to enjoy from the stands when the WooSox take on the Scranton Railriders.

Date: Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

a mom and son watch a fourth of july seattle parade — Andy Calhoun via unsplash

Lexington Lions’ 4th of July Carnival
The carnival is in town and families will be able to enjoy rides, games, food and fun at this annual event starting June 30 through July 4. Fireworks are scheduled for July 1 at 9:30 p.m., and families will also catch youth games on July 4 at 10 a.m.

Dates: Jun. 30-Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

Coca Cola July 4th Fest
Plan your fireworks extravaganza with a side of thrilling rides and Hurricane Ridge waterpark adventures. Take the kids to Six Flags New England for a sun-up to sun-down celebration every day. In addition to ticket discounts and rides for kids of all ages, families can watch a stunning fireworks display at 9:15 p.m.

Dates: Jul. 2-4, 2022
Event details

Kids watch a parade on the 4th of July — Ian McDonald via unsplash

Amesbury Days
This year marks the 123rd Amesbury Days. It’s a chance to get together for fun and exciting community events and launch the summer of 2022. Beginning June 23rd, there will be lots to do including a block party, Pride celebration, live music, a Kids Night on June 28 and more. But the most wow-worthy of them all has gotta be the 4th of July fireworks display.

Dates: Jun. 23-Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

Hampton Beach Special 4th of July Fireworks
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind when you take to the shores of New Hampshire for a beach day followed by a fireworks display. Bring your sand toys and picnic basket! Dress the kids in the jammies just in time for the spectacular main event. We think they’ll be sound asleep before you get to the Massachusetts border after this exciting day.

Date: Jul. 4, 2022
Event details

These Live Cams of Polar Bear Cubs Will Brrrring a Smile to Your Face

by Karly WoodOctober 25, 2021

It’s time to get excited: Polar Bear Week is almost here! Running from Oct. 31 to Nov. 6, the special time coincides with the annual gathering of hundreds of polar bears on the shores of Hudson Bay where they wait for the sea ice to freeze so they can start hunting seals out on the frozen ocean.

Polar Bears International (PBI) is using this week to focus on protecting polar bears and people. Families can tune into Polar Bear Live Cams, play polar bear cam bingo, access free curriculum and activities, and watch live-streamed “Tundra Connections,” with scientists and experts.

photo: ©Kt. Miller + Polar Bears International

Polar Bears International will also be doing a live, family-friendly concert to kick off Polar Bear Week for the first time. The concert will host a performance by Kishi Bashi (multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter) with bears in the background, and families can tune in this Wed., Oct. 27 at 1:30 PST / 4:30 EST (it’s free, just RSVP here).

––Karly Wood

Feature photo: ©BJ Kirschhoffer + Polar Bears International

Adorable Animal Cams You Can Watch All Day Long

These Kid-Friendly Live-Streams Can Help Beat the Boredom

Ho-Ho-Holiday Sets Are Arriving at LEGO & We’re Okay with That

by Karly WoodAugust 19, 2021

LEGO is gearing up for the holiday season and after the last year and a half, we’re ok with that. The brick maker just launched another addition to its festive lineup, Santa’s Visit. It includes a light up Christmas tree and a chimney that Santa can slide right down!

Like the rest of the holiday sets, it will launch October 1 and it features tons of fun details. From the cozy table where the whole family enjoys a meal by candlelight, to Santa’s chair with milk and cookies by the fire, this set will definitely get you and your family in the Christmas spirit. Although it’s meant for adult builders, your kids will have a blast setting the scenes once it’s complete.

If you’re looking for something a bit smaller, you’ll have a hard time choosing between these cute kits. The Polar Bear & Gift Pack ($9.99) is great for kids seven and up and comes with 142 pieces.

Mini builders will love constructing the adorable polar bear that comes with a scarf, gift box with movable ribbons and cute “with love to” sticker. Did we mention these make the perfect ornaments?

The LEGO Christmas Penguin ($14.99) is also bringing whimsy, with the ability to rotate, move its wings and stand next to a Christmas tree and three presents.

The penguin set is perfect for kids eight and older and comes with 244 pieces. Both sets will launch on Oct. 1 at LEGO.com and at LEGO stores.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

LEGO Is Dropping Two New Sets Just in Time for Spooky Season

This LEGO World Art Map Lets You Document Travel Brick by Brick

Live Stream Baby Beluga, Big Belugas & More From the Comfort of Your Couch

by Sarah ShebekJuly 7, 2021

Beluga cam is back! If you’ve ever wanted to watch a live stream of migrating beluga whales, we’ve got the scoop for you. Explore.org and Polar Bears International will launch the Beluga Whale Live Cam on July 15, which broadcasts from Churchill River where it meets the Hudson Bay.

It’s quite the show, with approximately 57,000 whales migrating into Canada. Your family can participate in “Beluga Bits,” examining underwater photos of the whales to ID age, size and regular migrators.

As the ice breaks up during the summer months, about two-thirds of the world’s beluga population spend time in more southern Canadian waters. The whales rely on sea ice and shallow waters for protection from predators, like Orcas. However, global warming is causing a decline in sea ice, so belugas have to dive deeper and longer to find food.

July 15 is Arctic Ice Sea Day, a day hosted by Polar Bears International to draw attention to the rapidly melting Arctic ecosystem. You can join live scientists Q&As, donate to the cause and learn more about why sea ice is so important. Kids can learn how to draw a polar bear or a narwhal, too!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of explore.org

Raffi and Yo-Yo Ma Release New “Baby Beluga” Single

Celebrate World Ocean Day with Baby Shark’s New Playlist

Why Celebrating Earth Day Is Such a Special Opportunity for Kids

By Gay Cioffi

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

April 23, 2021

Photo: Little Folks Big Questions

When my four-year-old granddaughter, Alma, heard her mom using the word, environment, she quickly asked her where she had heard that word.

Surprised, my daughter answered her with a question, “where had she heard that word?”

Alma explained that she had learned about the environment at her school and that she and her “Green Room” classmates were going to “Actually save the environment!”

My daughter replied that that was great news, then asked how they were going to do that. Alma described that they were going to recycle things and reuse things —so there isn’t a lot of trash on the planet. She elaborated, “The earth is our home, and if we don’t take care of it, we can’t just move to another planet, like Mars or Saturn.”

As part of her class’s efforts, they have been busy making play-dough this week, for a sale to friends and family—with the proceeds going to adopt a polar bear. As Alma proudly proclaims, “We’re going to save the polar bears too!”

Introducing the observance of Earth Day to young children is important for many reasons. First and foremost, it is essential to note that the next generation will face daunting challenges related to climate change and environmental issues. Laying a foundation that provides the notion of stewardship will be the first step in ensuring their critically needed commitment as they become adults.

For real change to occur in our efforts to save the earth, governments must recognize and respond to the effects of climate change with meaningful policies. Citizens must demand and support policies that are “earth-friendly,” then work and sacrifice to implement them.

While an effort to adopt one polar bear may seem insignificant, it is one of the many ways that the seeds of taking care of our home—the earth—are planted. Discussions such as: trying not to use too much water or electricity, caring for and planting trees and gardens are examples of simple ideas that can be introduced to young children.

Just as Alma and her classmates enthusiastically embraced this spring observance, children and adults around the world are embracing the urgent need to care for our planet.

By celebrating Earth Day with our families, we teach children responsibility and problem-solving; our community efforts reinforce the concepts of cooperation and collaboration, which in turn yields community connection.

This post originally appeared on www.littlefolksbigquestions.com

Gay Cioffi

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

I am a parent and grandparent with over four decades of experience in early childhood education. I share my passion, wisdom and experience, with parents and the people who care for and about children at Little Folks Big Questions, where we're out to answer the questions parents face in today's world.

Recall Alert: Ready-to-Eat Corned Beef Recalled Due to Inspection Concerns

by Erica LoopMarch 2, 2021

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recently announced a recall for 297,715 pounds of Milky Way International Trading Corp.’s ready-to-eat corned beef products due to concerns about FSIS import reinspection.

The recall includes corned beef items imported between Jun. 6, 2020 and Jan. 21, 2021 and have the words “Australia Inspected” and the number “39” on the product’s package.

photo courtesy of USDA FSIS

There are no reports of illnesses or adverse reactions The recall was made after a tip from an industry representative indicated the corned beef didn’t undergo the required importation reinspection.

For a full list of the recalled products, with affected codes, visit the FSIS’s website here. If you think you may have the affected products, throw them out or return them to the place of purchase. Do not eat the corned beef. Contact MW Polar Consumer Relations Specialist at 562-921-288 ext. 160 or email info@mwpolar.com with any recall-related questions.

—Erica Loop

Pepperoni Hot Pockets Recalled Over Possibility of Glass Contamination

Bob Evans Pork Sausage Recalled Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

The Detroit Zoo Welcomes Polar Bear Cubs & They’re Bear-y Cute

by Karly WoodFebruary 6, 2021

It’s been over 15 years since the Detroit Zoo birthed polar bear cubs, but all that changed on Nov. 17, 2020. Parents Nuka and Suka welcomed two cubs (who’ve yet to be named) in a special maternity den and the babies are doing well!

The cubs were born in a special area that is private and away from other bears. It is equipped with infrared video cameras so zoo staff can keep a close eye on the growing fam.

After the birth, staff noticed the female cub in distress so she was taken to the Detroit Zoo’s Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex where she is continuing to receive care. In the mean time, mama Suka is taking great care of her male cub.

Unfortunately for zoo guests, both cubs are currently in behind-the-scenes areas and can’t be viewed at this time. You can, however, visit papa Nuka in the Arctic Ring of Life’s tundra and pack ice habitats.

It will be some time before Suka and her cubs make it to the Artic Ring of Life habitats, but the Detroit Zoo has reported that the babies have their eyes open, their teeth are coming in and they are both learning to take their first steps.

––Karly Wood

Feature photo: AndreAnita via iStock

Adorable Animal Cams You Can Watch All Day Long

These Kid-Friendly Live-Streams Can Help Beat the Boredom

Grab Last-Minute Holiday Gifts on Your Next Dunkin’ Run

by Jennifer SwartvagherDecember 18, 2020

Are you looking for any last-minute holiday gifts, Now you can score a great deal on your next Dunkin’ run. From festive e-gift cards to limited-edition packaged coffee flavors to sweet ornaments, Dunkin’ has something to help cross everyone’s name off your list.

Holiday Dunkin’ E-Gift Cards

Send virtual cheers to teachers and other essential workers as well as friends and family near and far with a Dunkin’ e-gift card through the Dunkin’ App. The festive holiday designs are the perfect way to spread cheer. You can even treat yourself to a last-minute holiday gift when you purchase $50 worth of e-gift cards and receive your own $10 promo card.

Dunkin’ Packaged Coffee & K-Cup Pods - Cinnamin’ Nutmeg

Cinnamin' Nutmeg Packaged Coffee — Dunkin'

Dunkin’s Cinnamin’ Nutmeg flavored coffee features a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg and sweet brown sugar flavors.

Dunkin’ Packaged Coffee & K-Cup Pods - Polar Peppermint

Dunkin’s Polar Peppermint flavored coffee offers the classic combo of white chocolate and peppermint flavors.

Dunkin’ Ornaments - Elf on the Shelf

Dunkin’ even has stocking stuffers. Pick up an Elf on the Shelf ornament at your local Dunkin’.

Dunkin’ Ornaments - Dunkin’ Latte

Perfect for a gift topper or stocking stuffer, this Dunkin’ Latte Ornament is available at your local Dunkin’.

Dunkin’ Mugs

Gift the coffee lovers in your life a new favorite mug. There is a variety of special, limited-edition styles this season like the Ceramic Sweater Mug at participating Dunkin’ restaurants.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Dunkin’

Sam’s Club Invites You to the “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” Shopping Experience

2020 Harry Potter & Star Wars Advent Calendars Have Arrived

This “Friends” Advent Calendar Is Filled with over 40 Keepsakes

Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendars Return for 2020

Mark & Boone From “LEGO Masters” Inspire Families to Give Back This Holiday

by Jennifer SwartvagherDecember 14, 2020

Grab your LEGOs and get into the holiday spirit. Popular finalists Mark and Boone of LEGO Masters are sharing their own festive inspiration. These builds do not require a special kit and can be constructed with the bricks you have at home.

Whether you are an avid LEGO builder or you have recently gotten into it for the first time. Mark and Boone have put together some fun LEGO holiday decorations anyone can do.

Plus for every creation shared using the hashtag #BuildToGive, the LEGO Group will donate a LEGO set to a child in need throughout hospitals, children’s homes and vulnerable communities.

Check out these fun tutorials and get building:

Toy Soldier

Polar Bear

Snowman

Trolley

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of LEGO

Sam’s Club Invites You to the “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” Shopping Experience

2020 Harry Potter & Star Wars Advent Calendars Have Arrived

This “Friends” Advent Calendar Is Filled with over 40 Keepsakes

Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendars Return for 2020

Introducing SnowCandy Tubes & Sleds for Serious Winter Fun

by Jennifer SwartvagherDecember 10, 2020

Just because summer is over, you don’t have to give up colorful fun inflatables. The newest division of the beloved PoolCandy line of floats and water accessories, SnowCandy is this season’s hottest launch. We can’t wait for the next snowfall.

SnowCandy is a fantastically fun line of whimsical snow tubes, sleds and forts for outdoor winter adventures. Easy to inflate and deflate, these super sturdy inflatables were crafted for serious snowy shenanigans.

Glitter Galaxy Snow Tube

The new Glitter Galaxy Snow Tube ($50) uses RealPrint technology. This pink glitter filled snow tube uses the deep space super region photo taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. This image is a wavelengths composite of images from the Hubble Telescope, featuring an HII region emission nebula. The image also shows numerous galaxies, each averaging approximately 100 million stars

Peppermint 2 Person Snow Tube

Slide down that hill in sweet style with the Peppermint 2 Person Snow Tube ($65). The two person tube is sure to bring double the laughs.

Arctic Husky Tube

The Arctic Husky Tube ($40) will send you sailing! Made of heavyweight PVC, this trusty pooch is here for winter fun and games. You can also choose a Penguin Tube or a Polar Bear Tube.

Arctic Rainbow Tube

Add some much needed color to your snow day with the Arctic Rainbow Tube ($50). This epic snow tube will let you stand above the crowd with its super bright colors.

The collection is also available on Amazon.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of SnowCandy

Sam’s Club Invites You to the “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” Shopping Experience

2020 Harry Potter & Star Wars Advent Calendars Have Arrived

This “Friends” Advent Calendar Is Filled with over 40 Keepsakes

Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendars Return for 2020

ML Interest Tag: polar

Celebrate Stars & Stripes: Fourth of July Festivities for Families

Boston’s Best 4th of July Celebrations

Independence Day Parades & Festivals Beyond Boston

Related reads

These Live Cams of Polar Bear Cubs Will Brrrring a Smile to Your Face

Related reads

Live Stream Baby Beluga, Big Belugas & More From the Comfort of Your Couch

Related reads

Why Celebrating Earth Day Is Such a Special Opportunity for Kids

By Gay Cioffi

Gay Cioffi

Related reads

Recall Alert: Ready-to-Eat Corned Beef Recalled Due to Inspection Concerns

Related reads

Grab Last-Minute Holiday Gifts on Your Next Dunkin’ Run

Holiday Dunkin’ E-Gift Cards

Dunkin’ Packaged Coffee & K-Cup Pods - Cinnamin’ Nutmeg

Dunkin’ Packaged Coffee & K-Cup Pods - Polar Peppermint

Dunkin’ Ornaments - Elf on the Shelf

Dunkin’ Ornaments - Dunkin’ Latte

Dunkin’ Mugs

Related reads

Mark & Boone From “LEGO Masters” Inspire Families to Give Back This Holiday

Toy Soldier

Polar Bear

Snowman

Trolley

Related reads

Introducing SnowCandy Tubes & Sleds for Serious Winter Fun

Glitter Galaxy Snow Tube

Peppermint 2 Person Snow Tube

Arctic Husky Tube

Arctic Rainbow Tube

Related reads