After 2020 was such a downer, a lot of families are looking to get out this year and celebrate the holidays. There are SO many things you can do with the family this time of year, but here are just a few of our favorites. 

Ice Skating

Nothing says Christmas like ice skating! There are many places to do just that around San Diego, but we love the Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station. Net proceeds directly support the Thriving After Cancer program at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Head to http://www.radyfoundation.org/icerink for more information. 

The skating rink at The Hotel Del is so uniquely San Diego. The ice rink is right on the beach offering fabulous views and also benefits the Make-a-Wish foundation. While you are there make sure to take time to check out the rest of The Hotel Del’s amazing decorations. More information at http://www.hoteldel.com 

Sea World Christmas Celebration

Sea World really comes alive during the holidays with a ton of festive offerings. But the holiday shows is really where they shine. I have actually cried during their Christmas shows in the past because they are so well done. This year the brand-new Santa’s Christmas Show is getting great reviews from visitors. Plus, snow falls twice a night and a special firework show is back for the season! 

“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at the Old Globe

“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” has become a treasured tradition in San Diego and it is so great to see it back in person. Playing now through December 31st, this productions includes “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” among other songs. Plus, the Whoville tree outside the theater is a sight not to be missed! Tickets available at http://www.theoldglobe.org

Jingle Terrace Park

Even though last year was the least ideal for the holidays, our family really loved all the drive-thru events available. Del Mar and a few other places are bringing them back for this year, but one of our favorites is Jingle Terrace Park in Vista. Running now through December 23, this FREE event has your family driving through Brengle Terrace Park. They will also be collection food donations for the San Diego Food Bank and toy donations for the children of HMLA, the City of Vista’s adopted Marine unit at Camp Pendleton.http://www.cityofvista.com. 

The Polar Express

This one is a little drive north, but totally worth it if your child is a fan of “The Polar Express.” A group of talented actors will take you and your family aboard a real train to re-create the classic children’s tale. During this one hour trip you’ll enjoy hot coco and cookies, real-along to the classic book and get a visit from Santa himself! More info https://socalrailway.org/scrm-events/polar-express/ ​

Am I the only one that remembers making Thanksgiving centerpieces in elementary school every year? I don’t know why but I loved making one every single year. My mom would make sure it always had a prominent place at the Thanksgiving table. I feel like this is a tradition that has fallen out of popularity so I am doing my part to bring it back! Below are some fun Thanksgiving centerpieces your kids can easily put together at home:

A Centerpiece That is Also an Activity

If you’ve got a kid that gets bored at the dinner table this is a perfect solution. They can make this centerpiece that also doubles as a coloring activity to do while eating. Plus, free print-outs are always a plus!

http://amandaparkerandfamily.blogspot.com/2011/11/tutorial-muffin-boat-and-crayon-holder.html

Origami Turkey

I think this is something I made SEVERAL times for Thanksgiving centerpieces as a kid. You can never go wrong with a origami turkey! You could even make one for each guest.

http://lets-explore.net/blog/2010/11/origami-turkeys/

Thankful Tree

Remembering to be thankful is an important part of Thanksgiving and this tree is a great way to do just that. This is a great craft for the whole family to be a part of to celebrate the holiday.

https://morganmoore.typepad.com/one_more_moore/2010/11/our-thanksgiving-tree-henry-his-friend-drug-a-giant-fallen-tree-branch-from-the-park-to-our-backyard-last-week-i-finally.html

A Tabletop Turkey Craft

This article from Parenting.com has a lot of great ideas for easy crafts for the kids, but my favorite is the turkey made from a cup. This is so easy that my 3-year-old could probably do it if everything is cut out. In fact, I think this might be his centerpiece this year!

https://www.parenting.com/holidays/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-crafts-ideas/?pnid=614725?page=1

Reese’s Pieces Turkey

This will be by far the best tasting centerpiece on your table! Simply turn a bowl of everyone’s favorite candy into a turkey for a delicious decoration.

Autumn Leaf Mason Jar

This one might be more for your old kids. This is an easy way to turn leaves into beautiful centerpieces for your table. We might not have too many leaves lying around San Diego right now, but that’s why we always have Michael’s!

http://sparkandchemistry.com/blog/leaf-mason-jar-candle-holder/

What is your favorite Thanksgiving centerpiece your kid has put together?

Alright mom, Halloween is this Sunday, does your child not have a costume ready to go? I assure you that you are NOT alone! In fact I can guarantee you that there are a ton of parents out there that are scrambling right now trying to put something together. If you are looking for something to put together that won’t break the bank, here are some great ideas: 

DIY Marvel Costumes

This Tik Toker has the right idea to make yourself or your kids into a Marvel superhero. All you need is some sweats and construction paper. 

Easy Mike Wazowski Costume

They say if you have a hot glue gun you can do anything! It really comes in handy on Halloween when getting costumes together. This one put together with felt and a glue gun actually looks better than a store bought costume. 

Among Us 

If you’re teenager is super into video games, then you probably know all about “Among Us.” While there are plenty of costumes for it out there, here is a way to make one yourself that won’t break the bank. 

Home-Made Astronaut Costume

You don’t need to be Jeff Bezos to send your kid to space! This costume can be easily made all at home and you’re kid will feel like they are about to take off on a space ship. 

Squid Game 

While you’re kids probably aren’t watching Squid Game right now, the costume will be everywhere this year. In fact, it is one of the top costumes for babies in America right now! So if you are determined to dress your kid (or yourself) in what everyone is talking about, here is a easy and quick tutorial on how to put it all together. 

If you’ve got a little more time, here is a list of a TON more DIY costumes. A lot of these are going to take more time but look GREAT! 

https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1360/halloween-costumes-for-kids/​

What is the best DIY Halloween costume you made for your kid? 

How many pumpkins have you carved in your lifetime? We all love pumpkin carving, but there is SO much more you can do with your pumpkin that your kids will love. 

1 – Paint It

Carving can is not only time consuming, but dangerous. If handing your kid a knife is scaring your more than the latest Purge movie, then why not try your hand at painting pumpkins! You can hand your kids some paint and let them go wild! If they want something a little more structured, here are some great pumpkin paining ideas: 

https://www.womansday.com/home/decorating/g1902/painted-pumpkins-ideas/

2 – Turn It Into a Science Experiment

This is a GREAT one for the science lover in your house. You can turned your already carved pumpkin into a fun science experiment. Learning and Halloween? We’re in! 

3 – Wax Those Pumpkins

This sounds odd, but is actually quite beautiful. Melting wax down a pumpkin is super easy and the results are stunning. You can use candles, crayons or anything else that melts and drip it down the pumpkin. Parents will want to supervise their kids for this one, but if you mess up you can just pull the wax off once cooled and start again! 

https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/home-and-family/how-to/diy-melted-wax-pumpkins​

4 – Cook Those Pumpkin Seeds

I feel like this used to be more common but has fallen out of popularity in the last decade. Pumpkin seeds are super easy to toast and delicious! It’s a great one to have the kids help out on too. 

5 – Make a Pumpkin Feeder

Don’t want your pumpkin to go to waste after Halloween? How about turning it into a bird feeder! Not only is it a great way to make sure you don’t waste a pumpkin, but it is a great fall decoration. You can also make them into a fabulous fall planter using the same technique. 

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2014/10/31/make-pumpkin-bird-feeder

It’s fall and officially time to get your Halloween on with the family. No Halloween time is complete without at least one trip to a pumpkin patch and luckily San Diego has plenty of options for you to visit!

Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Station

• Locations in Rancho Bernardo, Del Mar, Mission Valley, National City and Bonita.
• Free admission and parking.
• www.pumpkinstation.com

Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch

• 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon
• Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 9 am-9 pm, Oct. 1-31.
• www.familychristmastreefarm.com

Bates Nut Farm

• 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center
• Open daily 9am-5pm
• Weekends include live entertainment, food trucks and family-friendly attractions.
• Free parking and admission on weekdays.
• $8 parking per car on weekends.
• www.batesnutfarm.biz

Mountain Valley Ranch

• 842 Hwy. 78, Ramona
• Open daily 9 am-7 pm
• www.mountainvalleyranch.com/pumpkin-patch

Oma’s Pumpkin Patch

• 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside
• Open Tuesday – Saturday 10 am-7 pm Tues.- Sat.
• All tickets, including tickets for the wagon ride, must be purchased online prior to arrival. No tickets will be sold on-site.
• www.omasfamilyfarm.com

Summers Past Farms

• 15602 Olde Hwy. 80, Flinn Springs.
• Thursday – Saturday 9:00-4:00
• Sunday 10:00-4:00
• www.summerspastfarms.com

Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch

• 6710 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla and 3190 Mission Blvd., San Diego
• Monday – Thursday 11am-8pm
• Friday and Saturday 10am-9pm
• Sunday 10am-8pm
• Free admission and parking. Online ordering with curbside pick-up available.
• www.mrjackolanternspumpkins.com

U-Pick Pumpkin Patch at The Farm Stand West.

• 2115 Miller Ave., Escondido
• Open daily 10am-6pm
• www.thefarmstandwest.com

PB Pumpkin Patch

• 870 Garnet Ave.
• Monday – Friday 10 am–10 pm
• Saturday and Sunday 8 am–10 pm.
• www.pbpumpkinpatch.com

Julian Farm & Orchard Pumpkin Patch

• 4444 State Hwy 78.
• Saturdays and Sundays 10 am- 5 pm.
• Fridays open for pumpkin pick-up only.
• www.julianminingcompany.com