1. His stovepipe top hat served as more than just a signature look: He used to stash his important documents there.
2. He loved animals and had a cat named Tabby and a dog named Fido. He loved his cat so much that she ate dinner at the White House table.
3. He was born on Feb. 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin in Kentucky (So in a way, he brought you Lincoln Logs, too).
4. At 21, he left home and canoed from Macon County, Illinois to New Salem, Illinois.
5. Lincoln’s favorite food was fruit.
6. A fun fact about Abraham Lincoln is that he was a wrestler. Over 12 years, he only lost one match out of 300.
7. Abraham Lincoln is the only U.S. president to ever hold a patent. He invented an inflatable bellows system to help boats navigate in shallow waters.
8. Abraham Lincoln supported the right of women to vote and said so as early as 1836. Women did not gain the right to vote officially until 1920!
9. Lincoln lost five separate elections before he became President of the U.S. (Never, ever, ever give up!)
10. Apparently, he did not like being called Abe and preferred people to call him Abraham.
11. Lincoln was the first president to be born outside the original 13 colonies.
12. Lincoln and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, held séances in the White House.
13. At 6’4,” he was the tallest president.
14. Abraham Lincoln never slept in the Lincoln bedroom.
15. On the night of his assassination, General Ulysses S. Grant had been invited to attend the play with Lincoln but declined because his wife did not like Mary Lincoln.
From newborn massages to facials for big kids, these local salons offer cute and creative Mommy & Me experiences and more
No doubt about it: Being a kid is hard work. After visiting all the indoor playgrounds, hitting all the neighborhood parks, and practicing their climbing skills on everything (including your furniture), it’s a wonder kids have any energy left at the end of the day. Sounds like a much-needed chill break is in order. Luckily, Chicago has several salons that not only welcome kids, but have special spa treatments for kids too. Whether you’re hosting a kid’s birthday party or introducing your little one to the benefits of a good mani/pedi, we’ve got one suggestion for you—get in on the action and make an appointment for yourself. You deserve it.
It’s never too early for self-care at Chicago’s premier infant wellness studio. Offering early childhood services which promote the development of motor, sensory, and cognitive skills and bonding with parents for infants from ages 2 weeks and up. Metta Baby offers sessions in water movement, infant massage, music, and play. Plus, their space is available for private playgroups, too.
Learn the art of infant massage in the comfort of your own home. Infant massage is a great way to not only promote wellness and relieve stress for your baby, but it is also a way to communicate without words. Adriana Liwsky, a Certified Educator of Infant Massage, will guide parents (yes, you too, dads) through learning the art of infant massage to help build a cherished relationship and nurturing bond with your baby. Added bonus: infant massage also relieves stress in grown-ups, too. Contact them to schedule an appointment.
This spa is a perfect spot for Mommy & Me nail services. Their Little Miss Bedazzled menu offers manicures, pedicures, and polish at great prices for little hands. Their space is also available for birthday parties that call for a little pampering.
The Spa-Palooza package at ASHA SalonSpa will give even the most stressed-out teen a break from homework and extra-curricular activities. Teens are treated to a full spa experience complete with a Teen Clean Facial, Reflexology Experience, and a session to create a signature perfume as unique as your child. Customized massages are also available. Younger children (10 & under) can make an appointment with a stylist complete with consultation, sensory-pleasing oils, and head & shoulder massage. Expectant mothers can also have their first "Mommy & Me” spa day with a soothing Hydrating Belly Treatment.
Gold Coast, Woodfield, Butterfield, or Rockford locations Online: ashasalonspa.com
Blo Blow Dry Bar
Sometimes you just want to be pampered, and Blo offers just that. Your mini sidekick can choose a fun hairstyle (mermaid braid, perhaps?) and you can get yourself a blowout to make it an official mommy-and-me day.
887 E. N. Milwaukee Vernon Hills, IL Online: blomedry.com
Milk & Honey
Milk & Honey offers fully customizable spa experiences using vegan or vegetarian, hyper-clean, natural products. Kids ages 5 and up can enjoy a mani/pedi and kids ages 12 and up may schedule facial services that help them achieve their skin goals. Products used during the services can also be purchased at checkout so you can bring the experience home.
This spot is the brainchild of Jenny Duranski, who worked as a nail technician for years when she got sick from the toxic fumes and chemicals and threw herself into becoming an expert on natural beauty and health products. Named after her daughter, Lena Rose is Chicago’s first Green beauty boutique and Green spa which focuses on non-toxic, vegan products and farm-to-facial services that are 100% safe for you. You can feel good about setting up a date for a mani/pedi with your child here.
4645 N. Rockwell St. Lincoln Square/North Center Online: lenarosebeauty.com
Lilies & Spikes
From first haircuts to prom-perfect make-up and brows, Lilies and Spikes has your pampering needs covered from head to toe. After ten years of salon ownership, the owners wanted to create a space that made kids feel special, and boy did they succeed. Here pampering kids is the focus, but hair and skin services are also available for mom and dad. Not only can kids express their individuality by adding special touches like hair chalk and feathers, but there are party packages designed to facilitate memorable birthday and spa experiences.
Teach your teens the importance of taking care of their skin with visits to the Oasis Face Bar in Lincoln Park. The Soothe Facial is perfect for t(w)eens who aren’t worrying about acne and includes a cryo massage, deep cleanse, exfoliating mask, and all of the relaxing benefits of a little pampering. For older teens and those who have concerns about acne, the Clear Facial is just for you. This treatment begins with a cryo massage and includes extractions and a mask that will pull out all the congestion and bacteria that causes acne. Oasis knows time is important, so all their standard services take only 30 minutes and maintain that "ahhh" feeling you get from a facial.
Is your Superhero or Princess looking for a new ‘do or to have their nails glammed up? OMG Spa in the South Loop is your spot. This full-service spa knows how to pamper kids and adults in their lives with high-quality products and a welcoming environment.
1620 S. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200 South Loop Online: omg-spa.com
The Peninsula Chicago is the perfect hotel for a decadent weekend of wellness, kids included. Step into kid-sized slippers and robes and head to the half-Olympic-sized swimming pool, and be sure to order some poolside snacks then head to the spa for a kid-focused mani/pedi.
Located in the Southport Corridor, this nail spa has just what you need to keep your kid's hands and feet looking fresh. With a selection of great colors, you can treat your child to a mani/pedi take a moment to catch up on their life, or just relax and recharge. Plus, their great location makes planning a whole Mommy and Me date possible with great shops and restaurants, and even a playground nearby.
Mix spa services, runway training, and glamour shots at this little-known photo studio. It doesn’t normally offer spa services, but if you book a photo party for eight guests (ages 4 & up), everyone is treated to updos and make-up. Rock stars and princesses can also get manicures, etiquette lessons, and design-your-own feather fans (a sassy prop if we ever saw one). Top things off with a fashion runway show, complete with fancy gowns and accessories. As a bonus, every guest leaves with a professional group photo.
Mireille Hamon has been beautifying Chicagoans for over 20 years and that includes teens as well. This full-service studio, offering everything from make-up to massages, offers a 45-minute Teen Facial which will include a deep cleansing, mild exfoliation, extraction (if needed), and soothing mask.
Did your sporty kid turn into a stinky kid? Kobi Kids, created right here in Chicago, offers safe products for kids to keep them feeling and smelling fresh no matter how hard they play. Making deodorants and body powders that are kid-friendly, gentle for sensitive skin, and light on fragrance for boys and girls. Their Gear Therapy Spray can help keep your car, closet, gym bag, and shoes from smelling like a locker room.
Looking for handmade, natural products to spoil your tweens and teens? Visit Mojo Spa Cosmetics and pick up some sweet-smelling products created with kids in mind. Bath fizzies, soaps that smell and look good enough to eat, lip balms, and so much more can be found here.
1468 N. Milwaukee Ave. Wicker Park Online: mojospa.com
Shop with complete confidence you're using products that are 100% safe for you and your family. This woman-owned boutique offers a wide selection of non-toxic and vegan products for you and your family. They are also a great resource for identifying the right products for you with years of expertise in natural beauty and care.
4645 N. Rockwell St. Lincoln Square/North Center Online: lenarosebeauty.com
The Mayor and Oogie Boogie are getting in on the action
With fall on the horizon, that means two things: whipping out the autumn decor and cueing up your favorite movies of the season. But here’s a thought: Why not combine the two by adding to your decoration collection with some of Build-A-Bear’s brand new updates from its Nightmare Before Christmas line?
The customer fave lineup is expanding to include a tan Oogie Boogie and the Mayor, which are both lovable and spooky at the same time. Oogie Boogie has green fur with stitches, has creepy crawlers around his mouth, and is carrying his signature dice. The Mayor has a reversible head so he can express himself in two ways, along with a sewn-in hat and suit.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
All plush bears can be accessorized with their signature Nightmare Before Christmas outfits like Jack’s suit and Sally’s patchwork dress, as well as songs. Choose from options like “This Is Halloween,” the “Oogie Boogie Song,” and “Sally’s Song” to make your creations come to life.
Both the new Oogie Boogie and The Mayor bears are available exclusively online for $36 and $45, respectively. But the good news is that you can order them unstuffed so you can have the experience of bringing your bears to life in your local Build-A-Bear Workshop. Options to order stuffed and ready-to-play bears are also available.
If you don’t have any bears from the OG collection, fear not. Jack Skellington, Sally, Zero, Scary Teddy, and green Oogie Boogie are still available and shoppable below.
PSL season is here! Starbucks has announced that your fave pumpkin spice goodies are officially back in cafes starting Tues. Aug. 30.
Strap on those boots and grab a scarf on your way out the door to grab your first Pumpkin Spice Latte with its signature pumpkin, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. Ok fine, yes, it’s still in the 90’s but we can dream.
Also returning for another year is the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, plus the Apple Crisp Macchiato. This year, the drink is made with oatmilk and Starbucks Blonde Espresso as the standard recipe, making it Starbucks’ first fall nondairy beverage.
Starbucks
Starbucks fall food menu items are also making a comeback. Be sure to grab a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Pumpkin Scone or the Pumpkin Loaf (which is actually available all year long) and a sweet Owl Cake Pop.
If you’re picking up a pound of coffee, you’ll see new designs adorning each bag for the first time in 10 years. Each one tells the story about how that particular blend is made through vibrant colors and beautiful artistry.
Starbucks
Now for the good stuff: the MERCH. The fall season is also bringing a whole new lineup of water bottles, cold cups and hot cups with a festive feel.
Starbucks
Keep your eyes peeled as the limited edition cups that include a new orange Bling cup, periwinkle (it’s so on-trend this year) Kaleidescope cold cup, textured Rainforest water bottle, an ocean gradient mug, color changing cups and a six-pack fall hot cup set.
Starbucks
You may have to visit more than one location to find the cup of your choosing, as each cafe carries its own selection from the fall merchandise line. Don’t wait long, every year this limited edition collection sells out.
Itching see a side of Atlanta you don’t usually get to see? These Atlanta tours offer unforgettable experiences
If there’s one thing kids love, it’s finding out how things are made. So when you get the chance to draw back the curtain and see the inner workings of…well, pretty much anything, we know your kids will be on board. Whether they can’t wait to take a seat in the Braves’ dugout, aspire to hold public office, or are just dying to know where babies come from (hint: it’s not what you think), you can show your kids just how it’s done at these behind-the-scenes Atlanta tours.
Take a tour of the governor's three-story, 30-room mansion that rests on 18 acres. The mansion is open for public tours on Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and promises to be an educational experience for kids and grown-ups alike. Tours are offered annually from February 1 through October 27, and include a hybrid of self-guided exploration and docent-led discussion. Pre-registration is required.
391 West Paces Ferry Road N.W. Atlanta Online: gov.georgia.gov
As the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball, the Atlanta Braves have plenty of history to share with their fans. Tours of Truist Park are offered year-round and take guests to many areas off limits during games. With artifacts and exhibits distributed throughout the ballpark, it is a definite must for any Braves or baseball fan. Tours begin at the Right Field Gate, and tickets must be purchased in advance online. Keep in mind that tours run rain or shine, and usually last around 1.5 hours.
Spend the day interacting with multiple exhibits, learning about the storied history of the iconic beverage brand, and sampling beverages from around the world. See the vault where the secret recipe for Coke is stored, check out the 4-D film about the global brand, and see an impressive collection of Coke—and Americana—memorabilia. You can watch to see how Coke is bottled, and pick one up on your way out.
Head to BabyLand General® Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia to learn where Cabbage Patch Kids come from. Situated on 650 acres in the North Georgia Mountains, this "hospital" is filled with Cabbage Patch Kids and Mother Cabbage is always on display beneath the branches of the Magic Crystal Tree. Pollinated by fanciful Bunnybees®, the magical Cabbage Patch is tended by Licensed Patch Doctors and Nurses. Babyland General Hospital is the only place in the world where you can witness the birth of a hand-sculpted Cabbage Patch Kid.
Experience the signature features of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, including stops at locker rooms, the field, Window to the City, Skybridges, and Clubs. Tour routes and locations are subject to change. In addition to the traditional tour offering, students can experience the signature features of Mercedes-Benz Stadium through the lens of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.
Learn a little about the racing industry with a tour of the AMS. Twice a year, it's the bustling center of the NASCAR Cup Series world, but the rest of the year it's open to the public for speedway tours and a behind-the-scenes look at the track, the start/finish line in the grandstands, the infield, and Victory Lane. Appointments are required at this raceway, and are offered five times daily, Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage month is celebrated every May and here in the Bay Area, we are blessed to have a culturally diverse demographic with plenty of AAPI influence. This month, take time to talk to kids about Asian American heroes, read books with Asian American leads or venture out and try an Asian restaurant. Beyond that, there are an abundance of local Asian American-owned businesses many of which support sustainable practices so check them out and show the AAPI community some love!
Anyday Along with Momofuku Restaurant group founder David Chang, Bay Area resident Steph Chen created Anyday, a one-of-a-kind cookware that allows entire meals to be cooked in the microwave. In addition to saving families time, Steph aims to help busy families achieve delicious, healthy dinners that are budget and most importantly, kid-friendly.
Burmatown | Sausalito Mother-daughter (Jennifer and Jenny!) team started this Burmese and Asian fusion restaurant with mom bringing traditional Burmese recipes from home-cooked dishes straight to the restaurant. Try the Mohinga Burmese fish chowder or the hoisin glazed ribs and thank us later!
Beeline Treats South Bay mom Vicki handcrafts unique, personalized cookies that are not only stunning to look at but also mouth wateringly delicious. Up the ante at your next occasion with these cookies that are guaranteed to impress but make sure to order in advance as she books out quickly!
Christine Lai
iChina | Santa Clara East meets West in this new opulent, Great Gatsby-like restaurant (be sure to check out the one-of-a-kind downstairs bathroom) where soothing emerald tones welcome diners. Enjoy a time honored luxurious tea ceremony, relax in the family-friendly Juiba for a craft cocktail, take in a decadent prix fixe meal (menus change seasonally) or, for the ultimate experience, be immersed in Silicon Valley's only virtual reality dining room where all the senses are indulged.
Kasa Indian Eatery Lawyer-turned-mom-turned-chef Anamika Khanna brings vibrant Indian flavors to the Bay Area with freshly ground spices and 24 hour marinated meat at this Asian-American owned eatery. With the belief that great food can be cheap and quick, Kasa specializes in delicious kati rolls, a sort of mini burrito that is a traditional Indian street food.
Kasama Ca Phe
Kasama Ca Phe | San Francisco Owners Erik and Kevin bring Southeast Asian-grown coffee to the Bay area and mix it with Asian culture in a perfect blend—ube affogato anyone?! YES PLEASE.
Kimmy’s Bliss | Sunnyvale Led by Kimmy, the team at this hair salon are always on point with the latest styles for the entire family and deliver them with empathy, humor and patience. Reasonable prices are only the beginning at this family-owned and operated salon where all are welcome and you become a family member as well.
Little Giant Ice Cream | Oakland Made from scratch with ingredients from local Clover farms, this ice cream joint has a bit of a cult following and with pup cups and vegan flavors, it’s not hard to see why not because there’s truly something for everyone!
Ladybug Flowers | Sausalito Seray and his family pride themselves in not only fresh and unique floral arrangements but also in being reasonably priced and most importantly, reliable. All your floral needs will be met by this excellent family owned, AAPI business!
Marco Polo Italian Ice Cream | San Francisco Despite a misleading name, this AAPI owned business has been a solid, local establishment in the Sunset district since 1982. Unique flavors like durian, lychee, mangosteen and soursop lead the way in crowd favorites—try one or all!
Pineapple King Bakery | San Francisco Happiness is grabbing a fresh pineapple bun (we love the plain and taro) and pairing it with a milk tea and walking to the Golden Gate park two blocks away. Commence happy dance.
Six Cloves Winery | Sonoma Winemaker Sonoe Hirabayashi chose the name Six Cloves to honor her ancestors who were involved in the medicinal, soy sauce and miso trades in Japan. Using grapes from nearby Sonoma vineyards, Sonoe is a trailblazer in the world of winemaking when it comes to the female and AAPI owned wine industry.
post.script. | San Francisco Owner Chandler Tang grew up in this neighborhood and opened this gift shop in what she hopes is a ray of sunlight in the community. post.script. is filled with an assortment of whimsical gifts and home goods all designed to bring joy and delight through their clean and modern designs.
Sue's Gallery Cafe
Sue’s Gallery Cafe | Saratoga We absolutely love stopping by this cafe before heading out on a hike at nearby Villa Montalvo or Sanborn County park because caffeinated hikes are the way to go. Grab a matcha latte or try a charcoal latte and be sure to check out the owner’s pottery studio next door!
You’ve made your list. You’ve checked it twice. Now get shopping! This year, support local businesses and pick a gift from a store near you. Flip through our guide for ideas to get your brains churning.
For Your Favorite Water Bug: Swim Lessons with Goldfish
Outdoor pools are drained, but that doesn't mean the water play has to stop. Help keep kids in the swim of things through winter with the gift of swim lessons from Goldfish Swim School Chicagoland. They'll be unwrapping more than the usual present, they'll be unwrapping life lessons mixed with smiles and confidence that comes from progress and mastery. More importantly, they'll be building on water safety skills—a gift that can save lives.
Swimming is always in season at Goldfish, so get ahead of the Winter Blues and gift the Golden Experience! Holiday gift packages include free lessons, a special Goldfish towel, dry bag and in-school credit.
Cost: Packages vary by location Locations throughout Chicagoland. Visit goldfishswimschool.com for pricing and purchasing.
For Members-Only Access: Give the Gift of Membership to Chicago Favorites
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
If you're a super-fan of a particular museum, play space or attraction, maybe it's high time you became a card-carrying member. Along with scoring sweet perks like access to special events, discounts and free parking, you're helping an awesome family destination thrive. Often in the case of some of the biggies, after just two visits, the museum membership has paid for itself — and you can avoid those long admission lines. Read our story for the scoop on memberships you should consider gifting to your gang (or grandkids!) this holiday season.
For the Builders: LEGO Chicago & LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGO
No matter the age, LEGO appears at the tippy top of most Christmas lists. We have one that builders and Chicago lovers alike will love to add to their collections. This 444-piece Chicago skyline set features Willis Tower, the building formerly known as John Hancock Center, Big Red, Wrigley Building, DuSable Bridge and Cloud Gate (aka The Bean), finished off with a Chicago nameplate.
For the kid that can't get enough LEGO, consider an annual pass for the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Schaumburg, which has attractions for families that includes a Miniland, rides, a 4D cinema, a master builder workshop, an opportunity to build and race your own LEGO car and much more!
Cost: $204 for LEGO Chicago Skyline set on Amazon, $44.95+/person for annual pass LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago; Streets of Woodfield, 601 N. Martingale Rd.; Schaumburg; Online: legolanddiscoverycenter.com
For Showing West Town Pride: Holiday Bundles
Give the gift of West Town with a West Town Holiday Bundle, or split the items between loved ones on your 'nice' list. Three themed packages are available, each set features items from 5+ neighborhood favorites.
The Snow Day — The perfect collection to keep anyone comfy and cozy during a Chicago winter.
The Holiday Party — Show or share your West Town neighborhood spirit.
The New Year — Everything you need and want to kick off your "new year, new me" or "new year, same me" routine.
Annie from Vicinity Candles Etsy shop sells candles inspired by local Chicago neighborhoods, with scents like Lakeview, West Loop, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Gold Coast, Pilsen, Wicker Park and Hyde Park. Each includes an insert that provides a glimpse into the neighborhood history which led to the inspiration for the scent.
Whether you're parenting with a same-sex partner or want to show LGBTQ+ pride support, this colorful twist on a traditional black and white Chicago skyline print is a subtle way to start your tiny human down a path of inclusivity and kindness.
For Those Who'd Like an On-the-Go Snuggle Buddy: Pockimals
Pockimals is making getting dressed ridiculously adorable with their Pockimals. These tiny stuffed animals come equipped with buttons that secure them directly to their custom-designed clothing pockets making them impossible to lose. All items are organic and produced with soft cotton to ensure comfort and no-scratchiness happiness. This Chicago-based company is made up of a team of friends who wanted to create the best children's toy to enhance creativity and focus on the magic of childhood.
For a Fun Night Out: Sauced at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
Combine a fun night out with holiday shopping and support local artisans at Sauced: The Night Market Before Christmas at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel Dec. 9 & 10. The event will include more than 30 vendors, food options and a DJ. While you're there, stop into Happy's, the hotel's over-the-top Christmas pop-up bar.
Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Loop; Online: saucedmarket.com
For Celebrating Chicago's Favorite Street Food: Hot Dogs
It is never too early to teach kids the proper (Chicago) way to eat a hot dog, sans ketchup, of course. Have them slip into this adorable hot dog-themed shirt and then hit up your favorite hot dog stand in Chicago.
Raise your hand if you love a good puzzle! If you have your hand up, you'll love this 1,000-piece neon Neighborhood Map of Chicago puzzle. Puzzle-lovers get to learn more about the layout of our city while assembling the map.
Chicago design studio Transit Tees' storefronts offer hundreds of Chicago-inspired gifts designed by local artists for under $40, as well as dozens of $10 and $20 stocking stuffers. Gift box sets include multiple Chicago-themed games, home goods or apparel items with free gift-wrapping and free shipping.
Cost: $40 & below Locations in Wicker Park & Andersonville; Online: transittees.com
For the Book Worms: A Book by a Chicago Author
Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Chicago has a rich literary history and is home to so many award-winning authors covering every genre under the sun. Introduce your little bookworm to Chicago’s brightest and best authors with our list of kid-approved, classic and contemporary children’s books. From picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for advanced readers, these are the Chicago-authored tomes to add to your kid's bookshelf ASAP.
Shop local and show support for local businesses that navigated their way through the pandemic. Your kids have likely already penned their Christmas lists (and have checked it way more than twice) and we can guarantee all their biggest wishes can be granted on the shelves of a local Chicago toy store. Show love to your favorite neighborhood go-to toy store or venture out to discover a new-to-you gem!
For Music Lovers: Ben Tatar and the Tatar Tots' New Album
Ben Tatar
Fans of the Chicago kiddie music scene love Ben Tatar and the Tater Tots. Lucky for us, he's back with his second family album of delectable songs about food just in time for the holidays, Seconds, releasing Nov. 12. Kids will giggle when they hear this savory gastronomic extravaganza, jam-packed with tasty treats for the ears and the dance floor.
For Fans of Christkindlmarket: Shop In-Person or Virtually
Gallagher Way
Christkindlmarket — Chicago's take on a traditional German Christmas market — is back with locations in the Loop and Wrigleyville. Browse the goods in the market's signature wooden cabins topped with festive red-and-white-striped canopies, or visit Christkindlmarket's virtual shop. If you shop the Wrigleyville location, be sure to check out Gallagher Way's Winterland programming.
For Tweens: A Bit of Pampering at Oasis Face Bar
Oasis Face Bar
It's never too early to teach kids, boys or girls, the importance of a good skincare routine. Newly opened Oasis Face Bar in Lincoln Park is the perfect intro for tweens because it takes the facial out of the spa, making it more budget-friendly and less time-consuming than a traditional spa experience. Bonus: It's locally and woman-owned. Stop by and grab a gift certificate, and maybe some masks and fun face products, to slip in your favorite tween's stocking.
From now until Christmas, for every $100 gift card you purchase, you'll receive a "Facial in A Box". Each box provides everything needed for one or two at-home facials. Wrap it along with the gift card, or take a self-care pampering day for yourself.
Cost: Treatments for as low as $49 Oasis Face Bar, 2136 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park; Online: oasisfacebar.com
For the New Moms: Metta Baby Bucktown
Metta Baby
Give new or expectant parents the gift of a one-of-a-kind experience with their new baby! Metta Baby is Chicago's premier infant wellness studio with offerings including water stimulation, infant massage, baby yoga, parent/baby classes, music classes and more! You can check out their full class schedule here. The Metta Baby team is dedicated to promoting early developmental activities starting at two weeks that support motor, sensory, and cognitive skills while nurturing secure attachment between infants and their parents. The mission is to provide a solid socialization and support system for infants and their caregivers in the earliest stages.
Cost:Gift cards in various increments are available for purchase online or at the Bucktown location.
Metta Baby; 1921 N. Damen, Bucktown; Online: mettababy.com
The world is a diverse place, and your PJ’s should reflect that! To honor the beauty and diversity around us, Old Navy is bringing back its famous skin tone Santa PJ prints!
Launched last year, the whimsical Santa print is back with three skin tone choices including Beige, Cocoa and Walnut. Choose from pajama pants, shorts, matching sets and onesies in sizes ranging from baby to adult.
photo: Old Navy
Old Navy wants to help Santas all over the world embrace the culture of today, so the brand is launching Santa BOOTcamp! The 30-minute, virtual training course covers everything it takes to become Santa and addresses topics like kids hard-hitting questions, signature phrases in sign language and Spanish and plenty more.
Interested Santas in Training can visit oldnavysantabootcamp.com starting Nov. 9 and register for free!
When was the last time you enjoyed a pre-flight coffee at the airport as the kids played in a safe, enclosed area and got some wiggles out before a flight? Never? Same. At San Jose Mineta International airport, that is now a reality. Zoom Zone, an interactive, educational play space created by the Children’s Discovery Museum in collaboration with the airport and sponsored by Zoom, is now open and ready to welcome young travelers. Read on for all the details and make sure to include time to check it out before your next flight!
Located in Terminal B between gates 24 and 25, Zoom Zone is conveniently located across from Peet’s Coffee and next to Chick-fil-A. At 600 sq feet, it has just enough room for kids to discover all about flight and aviation through its five exhibits.
We went on opening day and got to play with kids spanning the age spectrum but the one exhibit that kids kept returning to was the Pin Screen. This signature experience at the Discovery Museum has been replicated here at Zoom Zone with its soft pins that can be pushed on both sides of the board, generating a 3D impression.
In the center of the room is the Bird Climber, a slide structure that encourages kids to climb and slide or crawl under its feathers and wings. Tucked in the corner of Zoom Zone and demonstrating the mechanism of wings and flight is the impressive Kinetic Butterfly. The gorgeous wings flap when manipulated by turning gears and kids loved getting the view of the wings in action from below!
A Plane Kiosk with its knobs, levers and steering wheel lets little ones imagine flying a plane—there’s even a bench for passengers so fasten your (imaginary) seat belt! The Alphabet Airplane exhibit has the entire alphabet on display while mimicking airplane window shades. Each letter corresponds to a city (L for London, T for Tokyo) that San Jose Airport flies to with a lovely city graphic underneath the shade. This gives little hands plenty of opportunities to get out the need to open/shut window shades and hopefully, along with letting out steam in the Zoom Zone, makes for a smooth flight!
In a perfectly timed announcement within the spooky season, Loungefly is sharing details of its upcoming new release within the villain collection. Coming this November, fans can soon outfit themselves in true evil style thanks to Cinderella-themed bags.
Villains in training can shop signature mini backpacks ($80), a crossbody bag ($65) and wallets ($40) with features that include applique, adjustable straps, an enamel zipper and more. The new designs join other notables in the Disney Villains Scenes series that include Maleficent, Ursula, Hades and the Evil Queen from Snow White.
The collection is all about Cinderella’s evil stepmother and stepsister. The cosplay applique looks into a keyhole that resembles the time Cinderella was locked in her tower room while the prince awaited downstairs.
If bad isn’t your thang, you’ll love the newest release in the Disney Castle Series. The gorgeous design on the mini backpack features Princess Belle’s story with the castle on the front and artwork from a fan-favorite scene on the back. Other designs include a zip around wallet, credit card holder and cross body bag.
You can head to loungefly.com to sign up to be notified for the exact date both collections will drop.
