Okay, it’s actually a necessity, but cold weather gear is still trending at the moment. Of course, it’s winter, so that’s not surprising. Especially not to those of us who live in colder climates. And, since the winter solstice is this week, that means it’s officially chilly weather season. And although stocking up on gear to take it all on maybe doesn’t sound like the most fun way to celebrate, we can make your winter so much cozier with these clever products.
It’s not all puffy coats and boots. There are base layers, top layers, accessories…there are a ton of ways to keep your whole family warm and comfortable. And, since there are some brand new products in this list that we’ve never even seen before, you can be sure you’re nabbing the best heat helpers. Afterall, the idea of keeping our kids inside for the entire winter isn’t our favorite, and there are actually studies showing that there are lots of benefits to being outside even when it’s chilly. S0 here are a bunch of ways to stay warm while you’re out there.
Gobi Heat Basecamp Heated Base Layer Shirt
This sporty-chic shirt is designed to keep you warm, alone or under cozy layers. You control your level of warmth for 8 hours. It's basically a cute heated blanket. We might not take it off.
Made start to finish in Peru from eco-friendly alpaca fiber, this unisex hoodie is ultra-light, thermoregulating, odor-resistant, and softer than cashmere. It comes in 4 colors, which is good since it'll be your new favorite go-to.
You don't have to give up your leggings aesthetic just because it's cold. These beauties come in multiple colors, in singles or sets of two. And they have pockets.
The wearable lower-body thermal wrap that keeps you 500% warmer than a stadium blanket without bulky layers. We're talking staying warm without messing with losing the corner of your blanket or dragging it around. Available in 3 colors and 2 inclusive size ranges.
This 3-panel core heater fits right inside your jacket with velcro backing, so you can even move it from coat to coat. Plus, you can charge your phone with it, so it's basically a must-have this winter.
It's like your favorite hoodie and favorite puffer coat in one packable piece. You'll want to wear it all season. Available in 3 colorways, and men's sizes, too.
This stuff is more effective than rock salt or magnesium chloride (so you can use less), and it uses calcium chloride pellets that are safe for your furry friends' paws.
This extra thick, extra cozy, 10' x 10' (100 square feet) Sherpa Stretch blanket will keep you counting sheep, even on the chilliest nights. Perfect for bedding, movie nights, and camping, plus it comes in a bunch of colors and patterns.
Made with water-resistant, quilted outer shell and a soft, fleece-lined inner lining to keep baby warm and dry. Includes fleece-lined pockets for parents, so everyone stays nice and bundled up.
Crafted in Canada from touchably soft, 100% Merino wool, this moisture-wicking beanie is a classic that you'll be wearing for years. And with this 3-pack, you can keep the family toasty (in your choice of colors).
Set them up for the day with super warm—well, Wicked Warm—base layers from L.L.Bean. Available in midweight and expedition weight, so they'll be comfortable no matter what the day brings.
The fully recycled fabric includes moisture-wicking FlashDry technology to help them stay playing and protected, and this set comes in 3 colorways, too.
Temperature rated all the way down to -25° F and made with waterproof materials, the insulated Kids' Snow Bank keeps feet warm and dry, and it comes in 3 colors to fit their budding style.
Our open-knit design keeps you cozy in any climate, while the 100% recycled filling is eco-friendly and sustainable. Research shows that evenly-weighted blankets support more restful sleep, reduce anxiety, and boost serotonin. It's also super cozy and comes in multiple colors.
Oh Norman! is a dog care line founded by Kaley Cuoco, and has the cutest gifts for dog lovers (all available for under $50). This Freeloader dog hoodie is adorable (and accurate), and the matching Caretaker hoodie for you will keep you both warm.
Musher's Secret creates an invisible layer of protection for their paws to prevent drying and cracking. Works for snow, hot pavement, rough terrains, and more, and is made from food-safe oils and waxes, so it's safe even if they're lickers.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
From being an early riser to having several birthstones, people with a December birthday are a special bunch
Being a December baby can sometimes feel like a downer because birthdays can get forgotten in the holiday rush. But the truth is that people with a December birthday are impossible to overlook. While being born in November isn’t very common, December babies (especially those born on Dec. 25) are some of the rarest of them all. Here are some attributes you might not know about your December baby.
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Late December Birthdays Are Rare
It might be a celebratory distraction to be born on a big holiday, like Christmas, but the truth is it’s very rare to be born on Dec. 25, which makes those birthdays pretty special. In fact, Christmas Day is the least likely day of the year to be born, ranking at 366th with just over 6,500 births on average. Dec. 24 is also a rare one, ranking at 364th, and Dec. 26 comes in at 361st.
Some December Baby Names Are Related to the Holidays (but Not All)
While some December baby names are related to the holidays (think Joesph, Eve, Noelle, Nicolas), according to Nameberry, other names to give babies born in the last month of the year range from those inspired by light (Lucien) and December's flower (Narcissa, Holly), to the Winter Solstice (Talvi), and good fortune (Felix).
They're Less Moody As Adults
While we can’t make any guarantees when it comes to those terrible twos (and threes), according to research, people with a December birthday are less irritable as adults than those born in other months. A Hungarian study found that those born in the winter months, like December, were least likely to suffer from mood swings. So while the weather might be chilly outside when your December baby is born, expect to get a lot of warmth from these little charmers as they get older.
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They’re Bold Explorers
With all this talk of birthdays, you might ask, what is the zodiac sign for people born in December? Babies born before Dec. 21 are ruled by Sagittarius, the archer, meaning that you can expect wisdom, determination, and a bold attitude. These spitfires are also known being adventurous travelers, so get your world map ready. If their birthday comes after Dec. 21, that makes them a Capricorn. Represented by the goat, this zodiac sign for December implies that your baby will be ambitious and highly disciplined while also good-natured. So, in other words, they have a great work ethic.
They're Rich in Birthstones
What is December's birthstone? Lucky for December babies, they have four beautiful blue-hued gems to choose from if you include the blue topaz. The topaz is known for its sparkle, variety of colors, and affordability (a win-win for birthday gifts), although some history and jewelry experts argue that blue topaz does not represent December. Even if that's the case, you're still left with three gorgeous gems: the calming and ever-popular turquoise, the unique purple-blue tanzanite, and the blue-green zircon (said to be one of the oldest materials on earth).
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They’re the Head of the Class
Depending on what your school entry cut-offs are, your December baby is either one of the youngest in the class or the oldest. Either way, they are on track to be one of the brightest. While some studies show that kids who are the oldest in their class are more successful in academics, other research has shown that being the youngest also has an advantage by the time kids prepare to graduate high school, with the youngest outperforming their older classmates by the time they are applying for college. Either way, it's a win.
They’re Early Risers
A study of human circadian rhythms found that those born in winter months, including December, were more likely to be morning people, which means at least you’ll face a smiling tot when you’re up at the crack of dawn. Better still, other similar studies found that those born during the same season were more likely to go to bed earlier, which means more me-time for mom and a more efficient schedule going forward.
Some famous December babies include Walt Disney, Beethoven, and Jane Austen. Do you like movies and television? There's a VIP list filled with celebrities born in December such as actresses Lucy Liu, Amanda Seyfried, and Julianne Moore, as well as film director Judd Apatow. Mckayla Maroney and Gabby Douglas, two Team USA Gymnastics gold medalists, were born in December. Dec. 30 alone marks the birthdate of several iconic baseball players in history including Sandy Koufax, Frank Torre, and Jose Morales.
Los Angeles may be best known for its beaches and year-round summer-esque sunshine, but some of Los Angeles’ best winter activities for kids are the most fun for everyone
Los Angeles winters aren’t as snow-laden as say, Chicago, but the weather outside is debatably frightful (at least for us locals). The good news is, Angelenos don’t hunker down at home—we hit the town! From uncovering nearby winter wonderlands and festive holiday markets, to outdoor ice skating rinks and cozy fire pits for s’mores making are just some of the things to do in LA come winter. So grab your coat and scarf, and check out these nearby winter activities and see if you can check off all of these winter activities for Los Angeles in the winter.
Things to Do in the Winter Idea #1: Play in Snow (Yes! It's Possible)
Despite the lack of snow during Los Angeles winters, we’re lucky to be close to lots of snow-worthy mountain ranges. Bundle up the kids and take advantage of (a natural) winter’s bounty at our local alpine wonderlands that are just a hop, skip and a quick car ride away. Snow tubing? Check. Sledding? Check. Is everybody happy? Check check.
Beginner-level hills are found at most resorts, and more experienced skiers will indeed find runs to challenge them. Many resorts also offer other winter activities like tubing. And while everyone hopes for a winter storm, the resorts can also take matters into their own hands if the snowfall isn't cooperating. Whether you’re looking for a place to teach your kids how to ski or to test your own snow-based skills, you’ll find it within an easy drive of DTLA.
Looking for snow that won't melt under the California sun? Take the family and frolic in a flurry of (homemade) snow at WinterFest OC, the Southland's largest winter festival, held at the OC Fair & Event Center from Nov. 25 through the 1st of January. Try some fun no-ice sock skating, go ice-fishing and decorate snowflakes at the Winter Frolic. No meltdowns are allowed at Kidspace in Pasadena where it's snow fun from November 18 through January 8th.
Outdoor Winter Idea #2: Ice Skate under the Stars
If you're looking for a unique and engaging way to enjoy the winter season in town, look no further than ice skating. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's sure to be an ice skating rink nearby.
Skate and chill where the sand meets the snow. The 3rd annual Ice Rink at the Paséa Hotel & Spa returns this year November 25 - December 31 with oceanfront ice skating, reserved fire pit experiences and festive theme nights (think Mariah Carey Tributes and Santa Ho Ho Hoedown). Hang with the cool kids at the 8,000-square-foot ice rink on the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona in Santa Monica. Literally know as ICE, this skating rink brings a winter wonderland to the westside's coastal communities. LA Live hosts the annual L.A. Kings ice skating rink where you'll get to slide across the ice and prance around the sparkly Christmas tree as an LED light show flashes across the huge screens around the plaza. There's snow time like the present to go because all the ice will melt by the first or second week of January.
Sand berm sledding is the perfect winter activity when you can’t make it into the mountains. Sand berms are man-made sand hills built up by the city to protect the beaches from eroding from winter storms and rough surf. They are a popular spot for sand sledding in Los Angeles and a beloved activity for those who live near the ocean. Sand berms provide a great way to enjoy the beach during the winter when the weather is typically too cold or windy to enjoy otherwise. There's nothing quite like racing down a sand berm on a sled, feeling the wind in your face and the sand flying up behind you.
Winter Activity Idea #4: See the LA Skyline (without the Smog)
LA is never so clear as after a good winter-y rain. These are the best observation decks and lookouts in LA offering sweeping views of the city. Get a snowflakes-eye-view of LA from iconic landmarks rich in history offering panorama's of the Hollywood sign, the Pacific Ocean and even all the way to Catalina Island. Sometimes you'll find it's less crowded and ultra peaceful to bundle up and check out your world from high above it all.
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Winter Bucket List Idea #5: Try New Restaurants with the Kids
For those who are always DTE (down to eat), LA has some of the best ways to stay out of the kitchen.
Families can celebrate one of the Eight Nights at Birdie G's with a Hanukkah-themed dinner series. Chefs from across the country will prepare some innovative à la carte specials that embody the holiday, along with some classic Jewish dishes, like potato latkes.
For one of the best South Asian-inspired pizza pies you'll ever have, try Pijja Palace (Pijja is Hindi for "pizza") in Silver Lake. Covered in one of the delicious sauces of Northern Makhini, Peri Peri Vindaloo or White Korma and chock full of delectable toppings, it'll be hard to eat just one.
Embrace the doughnut and discover why this round-shaped sweet has become the unofficial dessert for LA (for kids and adults). Sidecar Doughnuts’ malasada-style raised doughnut filled with a homemade pumpkin-chai mousse and rolled in chai spiced sugar is the bomb! But hurry, it’s only available on Mon. and only through Dec. before they swap it out for a new, seasonal flavor.
Stop by one of these family-friendly LA breweries for a little corn hole, ping-pong and kid-friendly dining options.
The whole family can enjoy these breweries; it's not just for mom and pop date nights. C'mon, who said having kids meant you had to stop having fun!
Winter Activities for Kids Idea #6: Hit those Southern California Theme Parks
Winter time offers the perfect temps to experience all the coolest theme parks that Southern California has to offer. Not only are there amazing holiday celebrations with winter wonderland-inspired décor, you'll have fun experiencing holiday-themed shows and maybe even meeting Santa Claus himself! After everyone heads back to school in the new year, these incredible amusement parks continue to be a great way to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Winter season brings "Knott's Merry Farm", happening now through Jan. 8th and enjoy Knott's Berry Farm's delicious jellies and jams all year long.
It's always a magical time of year at Disneyland! Check out the "Holidays at the Disneyland Resorts" and then go back again all winter long for more family-fun-filled wintery celebrations throughout Disneyland and California Adventure.
The Awesomest Celebration of the Season is at Universal Studios. Experience Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or spend the holidays with the Grinch, Max, and Who-ville at the Who-tacular Grinchmas celebration. There's always movie magic happening at Universal Studios though, and you could be the star!
Six Flags Magic Mountain's "Holiday in the Park" is select evenings now-Jan. 1. Experience dazzling lights, sleigh rides, Santa's village and snowy nights. Come back January, February, March and more with your significant other for the best date nights and roller coasters around.
Experience laughter, thrills and genuine emotions at some of Los Angeles' best community and family-friendly theaters. The La Mirada Theatre has so many great, fun-filled, family-friendly shows based on your kid's most beloved literature. In Feb., don't miss Grace For President and The Lightning Thief, and in Mar. be sure to see Twinkle Time, the bilingual "Lady Gaga for Kids."
Outdoor Winter Activity Idea #8: Take a Winter Hike
Sunny and mid-70s? Get outdoors and see if you can check-off our favorite hiking spots in LA to go with babies, toddler and big kids. A local favorite? After a hike at Ferndell, stroll with the fam to The Trails Cafe for various baked goods, pies, coffee, quiche, and sandwiches.
Explore some of Southern California's hidden gems, such as the city of Claremont. This charming and quaint little village is just an hour away from LA, off the metrolink line, and full of family-friendly things to do including shopping, museums, botanical gardens and the some of the best eateries and dessert shops.
Winter Bucket List Idea #10: Make Winter Travel Plans
There are many possibilities for fun and adventure, from the snow-capped mountains to the city's twinkling lights. Vacation ideas abound, whether skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or sledding. And, of course, no winter vacation would be complete without a few festive holiday experiences thrown in for good measure. Whether you're looking for gifts and fun or simply a way to escape the cold, winter travel has something for everyone.
Skypark Santa's Village is an adventure-based family-friendly activity park in the San Bernardino Mountains. The alpine forest setting provides the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and excitement. With plenty of activities to choose from, there is something for everyone at Skypark Santa's Village. From zip lining and rock climbing to hiking and biking, there is no shortage of ways to explore the great outdoors.
Just two hours from LA, Solvang's Danish-style month-long holiday celebration, Julefest, is about to begin and runs from Nov. 27-Jan. 1. Discover Danish culture and Danish pastries like Aebleskivers—dough cooked in hot oil and shaped like a ball, traditionally sprinkled in powdered sugar with a drizzling of raspberry sauce. This quaint village oozes hygge—coziness—all winter long, so make sure you check out the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art and then head over to Ostrichland, USA, for some aviary appreciation.
If you're heading to LEGOLAND this winter, stay at one of the nearby resorts like the Sheraton Carlsbad or The Cassara offering movie nights. Of course, a day trip to the Carlsbad Flower Fields when they open Mar. 1st is a great way to get excited about the upcoming spring season.
Winter Bucket List Idea #11: Explore LA Like A Local
Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, SoFi Stadium is the city's premier sports and entertainment destination. Home to both the Chargers and the Rams, the stadium is a state-of-the-art facility that features both an indoor and outdoor experience for fans. With a capacity of over 70,000, SoFi Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in the NFL and provides a unique experience for all who attend. It also hosts various other events, including concerts and conventions. Take a tour of SoFi with the family, or better yet, cheer on your favorite LA team!
The LA Conservancy Historic Downtown Walks explore the history and heart of the amazing city through its architecture. The past is blended with the modern, giving visitors a unique perspective of the city. These walks are a great way to learn about the city and its people.
A visit to 123 FARM, a lavender farm, is a fun way to spend time with family. From now to Jan. 8, you can experience Christmas Nights, where one million lights are on display. Horse-drawn carriage tours, s'mores pits, Santa, hot cocoa, gingerbread and a holiday maze to get you in the yuletide spirit. Year-round you can enjoy festivals like the sheep-shearing festival, the sourdough bread festival or Lavender Nights with live music and lavender cocktails. A truly unique experience to see in Southern California.
There's no place like Hollywood, especially when it's Academy Awards season. Win the lottery for a bleacher seat to see all the arrivals in their glam. It's the perfect way to catch a glimpse of your favorite movie star.
One of the country's top running events takes place in LA on Mar. 19, starting at Dodger Stadium and ending at the Santa Monica Pier. The LA Marathon is a must-see event, that is, unless you're planning to run it; then it's a must-do!
Winter Bucket List Idea #12: Only-in-LA Events
The holidays in Los Angeles are a truly magical time. The city comes alive with lights and decorations and plenty of festive activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. One of the most popular things to do during the holidays is to see lights! Families also love seeing the many decorated boats ping the city's waterways. It's a great way to see the sights and get into the holiday spirit!
Rose Bowl Stadium Holiday Tours are Dec. 28, at 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Get a peek behind the scenes of America’s Stadium and the host of the Rose Bowl Game. Learn all about the flower-filled celebration that's more than a century old.
Jan.-Apr., is the best time to see whales in Southern California. The gray whale is a particularly impressive sight, weighing up to 40 tons, these giants travel from Alaska to Baja, in preparation to give birth to 2000-pound babies.
The holiday season doesn’t have to be all about Santa and the elves. Other cultures decorate their trees with spider webs, welcome a festive horse into their home, and even dine on the delicacy of KFC to celebrate the holidays
You may look for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, but what if you had 13 Santas? Holiday traditions from around the world include floral abundance, door-to-door witches, and more. We think your kids will especially get a kick out of the tradition of Mari Lwyd—the horse mascot who visits you in the winter season. Take a look at this fun holiday tradition and you might even be inspired to introduce one to your family this season.
In Mexico, poinsettias aren't just pretty flowers for the holidays. Instead, the bright petals play an important role in the holiday story about a young peasant girl, who, after setting out for a Christmas celebration with no gift to give, sees (with the help of a heavenly visitor) her humble gift of collected grasses and weeds magically transformed into 'Flores de Noche Buena,' bringing her to understand the true meaning of giving from the heart.
Soyal—Southwestern US
In Hopi culture, the Soyal Solstice Ceremony held in December is a time to pray to Father Sun for the renewal of light and welcoming back of the sun. It is a time to purify and to wish for good health and prosperity for one’s family and friends and the kachinas—spirit beings who guard over the Hopi—often bring gifts for children. The start of the celebration begins sixteen days before the solstice when one of the chief kachinas makes an appearance and dances and sings. Families make prayer sticks to bless their friends, neighbors, family, animals, and plants alike. Children are sometimes given replicas of the kachinas to learn about them; they represent animals, plants, and other aspects of nature.
In the beautiful snow-covered hills of Iceland, there isn’t just one Santa, there are thirteen. Yes, you read that right. Thirteen Yule Lads cause mischief and decide who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. These sons of the evil troll woman, Grýla, arrive in the thirteen days leading up to Christmas Eve, and each has a mischievous specialty including stealing meat, sausages, and candles. They also give small gifts, chocolate, and other sweets to the good girls and boys and raw potatoes to the naughty ones.
Kiwi Christmas Tree—New Zealand
We love our classic evergreen trees, but for the Kiwis in New Zealand, it’s all about the pohutukawa tree. This beautiful tree has deep roots in New Zealand’s culture, with several songs, poems, and other cultural items capturing its significance. It is also part of Maori culture and is considered a bridge to the afterlife.
The yuletide season is a bit more like a carnival with these Latvian party animals, except the purpose of this riot of color and good times is to drive out the evil spirits from the home. The Mummers are hilarious jokers who love dressing up and traveling around in full costume as everything from bears to gypsies and even zombies. With their help, you’ll have a prosperous new year.
Mari Lwyd is a rare and special character. The name means Holy Mary, but it refers to the horse mascot that is carried door-to-door by singing groups in Wales during the holiday season. Traditional carolers usually stay beyond the threshold of your door, but, in Wales, they're trying to join the party. They sing small pieces of music as a way of asking to be let into each house and will banter back and forth with the family before being welcomed inside to enjoy sweet cakes and ale.
Celebrating Christmas in Ukraine started with a classic Christmas miracle. A penniless family decided to grow a Christmas tree from a pinecone. The excited kiddos spent months planning the perfect decorations for their special tree, but their parents didn’t have enough money to buy the extra decor. On Christmas morning, the family discovered that a group of helpful spiders had spun delicate webs through the tree’s branches. As the light hit the beautiful silk threads, they magically turned to silver and gold. Today, decorating Christmas trees with spiderwebs is a way to usher in good luck for the coming year.
In Italy, Santa is small potatoes compared to the arrival of an old woman on a broomstick named La Befana. She visits children on January 6th, to deliver gifts to the good little girls and boys and lumps of coal (or lumps of black sugar) to the naughty ones. According to legend, La Befana was invited to travel with the Three Wise Men to celebrate the birth of Jesus. She was busy cleaning her house, so she decided not to go. When she realized her mistake, she began searching high and low for the child and still wanders the earth to this day.
KFC Christmas—Japan
When you think of Christmas dinner, turkey or ham are probably your go-to dishes. Well in Japan, the ultimate feast is none other than KFC. The Colonel’s delectable Christmas Chicken started as a promotion in 1974, and the company has seen its sales peak every Christmas Eve since. So if you happen to be in Japan for the holiday, make sure to pop into KFC for finger-lickin' goodness. But, make sure to get there early because there's going to be a line.
The Bahamas brings a whole new meaning to the term “Christmas Party” with Junkanoo. This riot of music and vibrant colors was originally developed by enslaved people, who were given three days off for the Christmas holiday. They celebrated with music, masks, and killer dance moves. Today, this festival includes massive dance troupes of up to 1,000 people, elaborate costumes, and gorgeous music created with goatskin drums, cowbells, whistles, and horns.
Nordic countries have long celebrated the Winter Solstice, and in modern times, on December 13, Christians in Sweden, Norway, and parts of Finland celebrate St. Lucia Day with a traditional festival of lights. In each town, a representative for St. Lucia is chosen to lead a large procession through the town with all of the young girls dressed in white with wreaths of candles around their heads. The tradition continues at home, where the eldest daughter dresses in a white outfit and serves coffee and yummy biscuits to the family.
The best Boston Christmas lights are turning on soon. You won’t want to miss these dazzling holiday lights
It may seem like you’ve barely finished your turkey dinner, but it’s definitely time to celebrate the winter holiday season with some serious wattage. Boston is full of epic holiday light displays (and tree lightings to go with them), most of which are going live soon. So grab your best scarf, put on those woolly hats and warm mittens, and head out to catch some of the best Boston Christmas lights in town, after heading out to get your Christmas tree, of course.
The official holiday season is underway, and lighting the City of Boston's official Christmas tree and trees throughout Boston Common and the Public Garden, is one of the main events. Generations have enjoyed, and continue to treasure, Boston's tree lighting celebration. Twenty-five thousand people of all ages attend the event, which has grown to include a festive stage show with nationally known talent. The Lighting of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall follows the Boston Common Tree Lighting, two of the best places in the city to see holiday lights, Boston families.
This family-friendly event is sure to get you and the kids in a festive mood. There will be refreshments and giveaways, and a special line up of local talent to keep the crowd singing classic holiday hits until the lights turn on. Come for the lighting, return to enjoy the holiday lights Boston residents love all month long.
Tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights make up this winter wonderland at Stone Zoo. Yukon Creek is where the Boston Christmas lights shine bright at this display. It's home to black bears, Canada lynx, reindeer, and arctic foxes. Add in this year's large-scale lantern displays and we know these holiday lights will make your winter's night bright. Grab tickets to this favorite display while you still can.
Insider Tip: Get over the mid-week hump when you visit ZooLights on a Wednesday, from November 30-December 21. That's when the kids can bump into Mrs. Claus. Psst...we hear she's pretty good at delivering holiday wishes to Santa.
Get into the winter spirit with Night Lights 2022 at Tower Hill Botanic Garden. It’s a celebration of light that includes thousands of lights, new experiences, and enchanting landscapes. Enjoy an outdoor walking experience through roughly 15 acres of formal gardens and surrounding woodlands, including illuminated plants, paths, sculptures, fountains, and a magical model train. The Boston Christmas lights scene is enhanced with fire pits for warming up, making s’mores, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa (or an adult beverage).
Pack the kids into the car and head to Gillette Stadium for a drive-thru display of lights that rivals no other. Magic of Lights is a dazzling display with a drive-through experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and some of your favorite characters of the season. Lit using the latest LED technology and digital animations, kids will squeal with delight as your car makes its way along the route. Get tickets online before driving down.
This tree lighting will definitely be lit. Join Martin’s Park in celebrating the holiday season with their annual Ship Lighting. Your kids will love seeing Santa arriving by boat. Enjoy Martin’s Park with hot cocoa, caroling, and holiday fun of all kinds.
Drive to Sommerville with the aid of the Illuminations Tour Map to find the town's most festive houses. Decked in lights from porch to rooftop, these folks go out to create holiday light displays Boston folks return to see year after year. Holiday caroling in planned for December 15, and the map is expected to release on December 8.
8. Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge House & Garden
Winterlights is back with some of the best holiday lights Boston has to offer. And the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens is just one of three beautiful properties that will sparkle with thousands of shimmering, artfully designed Christmas lights. The Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate and Naumkeag are the other two festive spots to display this dazzling show. Bring the whole family for a magical and fun outdoor experience, with food, refreshments, and more.
Insider Tip: Tickets always sell out quickly for this event (in fact, some weekends are completely sold out now), so grab yours soon if this trip is on your winter wish list.
Take in the gorgeous views of the city when this trellis is lit with blue lights for the duration of the holiday season. The family will love the music, hot chocolate, and dazzling lights at this amazing event.
The Winter Light Show is an annual spectacular that features dozens of dazzling, larger-than-life holiday themed displays to delight the entire family as they drive through the gorgeous display. Bundle up the kids, pack your favorite holiday cookies, and pour creamy hot cocoa into the thermos; then sit back and listen to the holiday music on your car's stereo. The synced light performance will make your kids smile. The drive is one mile. Be sure to plan ahead as you'll need tickets for this one.
No matter where you grew up, you likely had a unique family tradition around the holidays, from special dinners to sledding to holiday movie marathons. This year, start a tradition of your own, with one of our 10 easy (and low cost) ideas to help you connect as a family, broaden your horizons, and give back to your community. Scroll down to get inspired.
1. Host a Cookie Part (IRL or Online)
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What’s better than baking cookies? Eating cookies other people have baked! This year organize a cookie swap. To keep it pandemic proof, consider a couple of alternatives to the in-person exchange.
Have everyone participating bake on a specific weekend, and then pick a time to drop the cookies off at respective houses, or find an outdoor spot to make the switch. You still get the benefit of all of the different recipes and can create cookie gift baskets the teachers will love.
Gather your ingredients and a handful of families or relatives and host a virtual cookie-making party! You can choose a specific recipe or two, and share it around in advance. Make sure everyone is set up to start with ingredients and a preheated oven at the start of the call, and get baking. As the host, you can lead the step-by-step but keep it light and casual. For little kids, one recipe is plenty. If you have older kids or you want to do a mom-night, take turns sharing tips and tricks as you dedicated a couple of hours to baking together.
If making gifts for everyone on your list sounds daunting, pick one person to make one gift for.Here are 41 ideas to get you started (and we promise, they are easy and useful!).
3. Take a New Year’s Day Hike
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Don't spend all day indoors—take a hike together! It doesn't have to be on NYD either, you could make it a new Christmas Day tradition, an annual Solstice event or any day you'd like.
Sign up for a local outdoor race, join a virtual race online, or organize your own. All you need are Santa hats to make it holiday-themed. If the weather is icky, you can do it on a treadmill, just have each family member clock their time and record it all down with times to beat next year. And remember, walking, skating, or even biking can all count.
5. Write a Gratitude List
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2021 has been a mixed bag. Many of us finally got the chance to see loved ones, but others are still unable to travel or visit safely. Schools are mostly open, but kids are (mostly) masked.
Don’t keep all your grateful feels for Thanksgiving. The holiday season is the perfect time to make a family gratitude list. Make sure every family member has a chance to write theirs down—better yet, keep it posted somewhere with space to write as the mood strikes. You’ll likely find some adorable and heartwarming answers written in crayon.
6. Host a Family Game Night with Your Bestie Fam (IRL or Virtual)
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Bust out the Cribbage board (or more like Exploding Kittens) and get together with your bestie fam for a double-family game night. Choose games that don’t take hours to settle (ahem, Catan fans) so that you can keep rotating between different games.
If having a bash outside of your bubble doesn’t feel safe this year, host a family game night with just your family and wear your holiday pajamas as a new tradition.
Or, go virtual! Figure out a plan in advance. There are certain games that lend themselves to virtual play better than others: we love playing drawing games or guessing games like twenty questions. We recently tried out the Anniversary Edition of 5 Second Rule which could easily be adapted to online play. You can also all try something likeHouseparty, which does the game hosting for you.
Do this every year and you'll have a tree's worth by the time they're grown. Here are 22 ideas that anyone can make.
10. Read a Book Together
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Even if your kids have gotten older and are independent readers, there is nothing quite like reading a book out loud together. Throughout the month of December, choose one longer chapter book and a specific night (or nights) of the week where the entire family switches off their devices and listens to the story together. Make cocoa and get your PJs on to give it that festive atmosphere. Different family members can take turns reading, too. If you prefer, you can do a different shorter book each time, instead. Let each family member choose one.
After the year and a half we’ve all had, we’re ready to go big this year when it comes to celebrating the holidays. Thankfully, hotels around LA are feeling the same and are putting their best twinkling lights, ornaments and over-the-top holiday decor on display for our maximum viewing pleasure. Check out all the best spots to see hotel holiday displays that will get you into holiday spirit from your head to your toes—maybe even check in for a night or two to really maximize that holiday joy.
This article is sponsored by Terranea Resort, the perfect way to create a memorable holiday experience on the Southern California coast. Whether you’re looking for relaxation at The Spa, fun-filled activities or meaningful family moments, Traditions at Terranea Resort has something for you. Learn more.
In addition to being decked out for the holidays from the front all the way to the ocean, Terranea Resort is hosting its annual seaside event, Traditions, featuring festive offerings beginning with Thanksgiving and continuing through New Year’s Day. Experiences include signature holiday events, family activities and adventures like Postcards to the North Pole, Winter Solstice Coastal Hikes, Kids Club Family Gratitude Boxes, and Mandala Painting, Stargazing and S’mores—perfect for enjoying around one of the resort’s 228 fireplaces.
In December, you'll find elves reading stories to kids by the lobby fireplaceor being searched for—daily clues at the Experience Center will help kids search high and low for Terra, the resident Elf on the Shelf.
And on New Year’s Eve, Terranea invites guests to ring in the New Year with two grand events. At the Winter Wonderland Family Dinner, guests are transported into a magical winter wonderland countdown for a family celebration, three-course meal, Champagne toast and live entertainment. The New Year’s Eve Neon Extravaganza offers a dazzling adult-only celebration, including an open bar with optional VIP bottle service, a variety of food stations, live entertainment and DJ. Terranea’s award-winning culinary team also creates specialty menus and experiences in each of the resort’s restaurants including mar’sel, bashi, Nelson’s, and catalina kitchen.
100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes Online: terranea.com
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
A trip to the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel will help even the grouchiest Grinches get into the holiday spirit. Not only will the hotel update its awnings from a yellow and white color to green and red, this year, the lobby decorations will be over-the-top! The hotel's in-house floral team, Square Root Designs, was inspired by a classic Christmas theme for this year’s festive installation, which features live Christmas trees, glittering lights with red and gold garlands, holiday florals, oversized Christmas ornaments and welcoming Nutcracker statues. An added bonus? The Beverly Hills High School Choir will perform carolers on Nov. 18th and Dec. 18th in the evening to get guests into the festive spirit.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa welcomes the holiday season with its six-week-long Annual Festival of Lights celebration, featuring one of the nation's most adored light displays that will wow both children and parents alike. Though the lights are the main attraction here, the experience is enhanced by “Dickens carolers, appearances by Santa, the world’s largest man-made mistletoe, horse-drawn carriage rides, freshly fallen snow, elaborately decorated Christmas trees; and delectable holiday confections at the famous Casey’s Cupcakes.”
Outside the hotel, the North Pole walkway will take you down the main pedestrian thoroughfare, lined with Santa’s elves filling his sleigh full of toys, a life-size gingerbread house, window displays, and more. Visitors have numerous opportunities to spend time with Santa, including breakfasts accompanied by a performance from the Inland Pacific Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, and champagne brunches on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.
Throughout rest of the resort’s holiday season, you can take horse-drawn carriage rides, check out the live reindeer milling around the grounds, or snap a couples selfie under the world’s largest man-made mistletoe. The Mission Inn feels so much like Christmas, we wouldn’t be surprised if this were Santa’s secret hideaway!
During the holidays, this world-renowned Palm Springs resort transforms into a quaint Christmas village, very much like the famous town of Bedford Falls (from the movie It's a Wonderful Life that was written on these very grounds by Frank Capa). Everything is adorned with twinkling lights and festive scenery. No matter where you find yourself in the resort, it feels, smells and looks so much like Christmas, you'll almost forget you're in the desert. From the spectacular tree to the aroma of roasting chestnuts in the lobby, the holiday spirit here is palpable.
L’Ermitage will transform their lobby into a winter wonderland—courtesy of Love Actually's Emmy award-winning set designer Matthew Steinbrenner. And if that's not enough for Love Actually fans, you can book an exclusive Love Actually Live package from now through the end of Dec. with the hotel that includes two tickets to the show, travel to and from the theater, a signed playbill and eggnog truffles.
Are you raising a little social justice warrior? Well, there is no time like the holiday season to get kids into the mindset of thinking about others. As described in Race, Class, and Parenting: 7 Strategies for Raising Sensitive, Confident, and Loving Kids, gratitude and empathy form the foundation of social justice parenting. Keep reading for our top ideas to help you teach your children awareness, compassion and service.
1. Volunteer at a Food Bank or Organize a Food Drive
Family meals are typically such an important part of our holiday season, but so many individuals and families struggle to put a meal on the table year-round. In 2020, an estimated 10.5% of U.S. households were food insecure, according to the USDA Economic Research Service. Volunteering at a local food bank is an effective way to make our children more aware of their privilege and to teach our children the importance of service. If your child is too young to actually serve or stock food, you can help them organize a food drive among their family, classmates, teammates and friends.
The number of people who are without permanent homes has been on the rise this year, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that has forced so many people out of work. In January 2019, even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Point-in-Time Count, seventeen out of every 10,000 people in the United States experienced homelessness on a single night. Of these 567,715 people, more than 35,000 were children.
A fairly simple, but meaningful project is to make care packages with toiletry items, like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and deodorant for people who are displaced. These kinds of sanitation items help to restore a sense of dignity for people who are struggling to maintain their hygiene during this transitional period in their lives. You can set a budget for picking up these items from a local dollar store, or you could even creatively repurpose hotel shampoos and lotions. Because coronavirus is still a significant risk, consider adding a small bottle of hand sanitizer. These items can be distributed through formal organizations that service these populations, or you can just keep freezer bag parcels in the back of your car to distribute in safe situations when you are out and about.
In a year when we seem to be struggling more than ever to maintain respect for people who are different than us, there has never been a better time to establish a tone of inclusion and acceptance in our own family culture. This holiday season, be sure to make time to learn about the traditions and experiences of people who are different than you. Set an important example for your children by taking the time to understand what matters to your neighbors and why. Here are some of the holidays that are being celebrated around the world through fall and winter:
Even as you make an effort to learn about others, don't forget the importance of sharing your traditions as well. Striving for a more equitable society means we are willing to participate in a reciprocal exchange of cultures and traditions. Consider sharing your traditions with friends of different backgrounds. Invite two to three neighbors to participate in a recipe swap for Thanksgiving; encourage them to share a food/recipe they grew up eating. Perhaps you can invite a friend to participate in a spiritual service at your temple, church or mosque. To move us forward as a society, we all have to be willing to be more vulnerable with one another, and there are many simple ways to do so over the holiday season.
5. Craft Holiday Cards for Seniors in Assisted Living Communities
Loneliness is a significant burden on the elderly, including those who reside in assisted living communities. According to the CDC, lonely seniors are at greater risk for dementia, depression and premature death. Teach your children to be sensitive to this vulnerable population by planning a crafting day to make holiday cards that you can drop off for seniors at a facility in your community. These cards will spread cheer to people who can really benefit from knowing that they are remembered and appreciated by their neighbors.
We don’t just want to teach our children how to be caring, we want to empower them with the skills to actually make the changes we need for a better world. This holiday season, support your children as they take the lead on organizing a toy, clothing or blanket drive. Start with research about communities that could benefit from this kind of activism, including unhoused people, children in orphanages and families displaced by hurricanes and fires this year. Help them figure out how to communicate and raise awareness about the social issues that create these needs. Encourage them to enlist help and form partnerships to scale their impact. Teach them to set goals and to be persistent towards their goal. Ultimately, they will internalize a powerful lesson about their ability to influence change.
7. Raise Awareness and Spread Love with Holiday Cards
Holiday cards are such a fun way to spread cheer among our friends and family. Consider designing a card or sharing a more intentional message among your social network this holiday season. Give updates on the social justice activities you have executed over the past year or share your positive intentions for the world in the coming year. Create holiday cards that encourage, enlighten and inspire this year.
8. Gratitude Activities
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Children who are grateful are better able to feel confident, show compassion and leverage their privilege on behalf of others. Gratitude is the most valuable perspective in social justice parenting. Create new holiday traditions focused on gratitude; consider Thanksgiving crafts or activities that inspire your kids to think about what they are grateful for. Plan to go around the dinner table and reflect on what each person appreciates in his or her life. If you use an Advent calendar in your holiday traditions, consider connecting each daily ritual to an explicit statement of gratitude. Help your children communicate in the dialect of thankfulness this holiday season and all year long.
This holiday season, use your purchasing power to promote social justice. As we are buying gifts for family, friends and all of the people in our lives who have helped us get through the year, think about where and how you spend your money. Make a point to buy from small businesses who have been disproportionately impacted by pandemic closures. Purchase goods and services from minority-owned businesses. When planning gift purchases, try to buy dolls, toys and books that represent all people of different races, ethnicities and abilities. Every dollar you spend is truly a vote for the type of world that you want to live in.
10. Make New Year’s Resolutions around Social Justice Issues
It is never too early to form a resolution or set a vision for the coming year. Even young children can and should be taught to dream and set goals for themselves and their communities. For the coming year, you and your family can set specific resolutions around social justice issues. Perhaps you will commit to reading books and learning more about systemic bias or environmental justice. Maybe you will commit to volunteering on a regular basis in your community in the coming year. You may decide to become more politically active engaging your local politicians or pursuing an elected or appointed position yourself. You might decide as a family to rescue a new pet. Setting intentions are a powerful first step to evolving as an individual, as a family, and as a society.
Continuing The Metropolitan Opera’s annual tradition, the Family Holiday Festival will be available as a digital experience. While in previous years, this annual favorite event was at the historic opera at Lincoln Center. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Met is bringing everything online for a free, all-virtual experience across five days.
The Family Holiday Festival will run Dec. 17 through Dec. 21, 2020. Among the highlights for the whole family is a free stream of the holiday favorite Hansel and Gretel, a wickedly entertaining adaptation of the classic fairy tale. Complementing this is a lineup of online events to celebrate the season, including arts and crafts, composing carols, a dance party, and a special Hansel and Gretel-inspired baking class (Deep Dark Fudgy Brownies) featuring NY Times writer Melissa Clark and opera star Anthony Roth Costanzo.
The family-friendly opera has inspired a lineup of online events to celebrate the season, including arts and crafts, baking, and composing carols. The opera stream and event information can be found at metopera.org/family.
Below is the schedule for the Met’s virtual Family Holiday Festival.
Thurs., Dec. 17 at 5:00pm ET through Mon., Dec. 21 at 5 p.m. ET – Free Stream of Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel
Thurs., Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. ET – Getting to Know Hansel and Gretel
Learn about Humperdinck’s operatic interpretation of this classic story with music educator Timothy Brendler.
Fri., Dec. 18 at 1 p.m. ET – Feeling Crafty
Professional clown Stephanie Sine will lead families in a special craft inspired by Hansel and Gretel’s adventure into the woods.
Sat., Dec.19 at 11 a.m. ET – Kid in the Holiday Kitchen
New York Times food writer Melissa Clark and countertenor (and avid baker) Anthony Roth Costanzo will guide families in baking Deep Dark Fudgy Brownies, a recipe from Clark’s new cookbook, Kid in the Kitchen.
Sun., Dec. 20 at 1 p.m. ET – Creative Carols Actor and songwriter Joel Waggoner will lead a session on how to compose music and write lyrics for carols that are inspired by our own holiday traditions.
Mon., Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. ET – Solstice Songs
To celebrate the Winter Solstice, musician and educator Goussy Célestin will share how music and stories have helped us understand the passage of time.
Mon., Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. ET – Solstice Dance Party
The festival concludes with a dance party and holiday celebration for the entire family via Zoom.
For more information about the Met’s virtual Family Holiday Festival, visit metopera.org/family.
The holidays are here and festivities continue with some of your child’s favorite characters. Three new heartfelt winter-themed episodes of Molly of Denali are coming to PBS KIDS Dec. 7 through Dec. 9 will help make the season brighter for kids and families from coast-to-coast.
In the debut episodes, Molly, her friends and family in Alaska figure out how to help Aunt Midge get around in the snow, mend an ugly hand-me-down Christmas sweater, celebrate a birthday during the winter solstice, search for a lost mitten and more.
The award-winning animated series, produced by WGBH Boston, follows the adventures of curious and resourceful 10-year-old Molly Mabray, an Alaska Native girl who lives in the fictional village of Qyah, Alaska.
Molly helps her Mom and Dad run the Denali Trading Post – a general store, bunkhouse, and transport hub – where she assists tourists, trekkers and scientists, and sometimes rides along in Mom’s bush plane or makes deliveries via dog sled. Molly of Denali is the first nationally-distributed children’s series to feature a Native American and Alaska Native lead character.
In addition to the new Molly of Denali seasonal stories, a new Pinkalicious & Peterrific Christmas special, “Gingerbread House / Christmas Tree Trouble” premieres on PBS KIDS Dec. 7.
PBS KIDS is bringing even more holiday cheer to families nationwide. From Dec. 4 through Dec. 27 seasonal specials from fan-favorite PBS KIDS series are returning, including:
Curious George: “A Very Monkey Christmas”
Wild Kratts: “A Creature Christmas”
Nature Cat: “A Nature Carol”
Let’s Go Luna!: “Luna’s Christmas Around the World”