phillyfun4kids

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:02:00 +0000

Enjoy this unseasonably warm (if a little wet) weekend in Philly this weekend. So much to do for the whole family from winter festivals to character sightings, live family entertainment, and much more!

Lambertville New Hope Winter Festival
Friday January 27 - Sunday January 29th
New Hope, PA

It’s the 2012 Lambertvile New Hope Winter Festival taking place this weekend January 25th – 29th. This family friendly winter fun event includes a line-up of special events for the kiddos including story times celebrating winter, a special performance of Sleeping Beauty, a live Glee choir performance and more and all completely free! Plus enjoy snow folk art, ice sculpture competition, a parade and of course great food and drinks. See website for full details of festival event info and times. Free.

Oliver!
Friday January 27th 7:30pm
Saturday January 28th 4pm
The Hedgerow Theater
Media, PA

Your kiddos will love this classical musical Oliver! based on the 1838 novel by Dickens. Oliver! at Hedgerow Theater kicks-off this weekend with shows running Friday January 27th at 7:30pm and Saturday January 28th at 4pm. Celebrate Dickens’ 200th birthday by enjoying this family friendly showing of this classic tale. Tickets $10 for children and $20 for adults.

All Hands On Deck Winter Sort of Thing Performance
Friday January 27th - Sunday January 29th
Eastern University McInnis Auditorium
St. David’s PA

It’s high time for hi-jinx on the high seas at this unique and lively “All Hands On Deck” performance sponsored by Yes! And… and the Collaborative Arts & Eastern University Theater. Families will delight in this tale of imaginary friends, pirates, and swash-buckling good fun! Show runs Friday January 27th at 7pm, Sat. January 28th at 1pm and 7pm and Sunday January 20th at 1pm. Tickets are $5-$10.

Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Friday January 27th - Sunday January 29th
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

This new Giant Dinosaur Exhibit at The Franklin Institute features two dozen humongous actual skeletons, dinosaur recreations, and full sized robotics. Kids will love the hands-on “dino-dig” too! $18-$25 includes general museum admission.

Fore! The Planet Indoor Golf
Friday January 27th - Sunday January 29th
Linvilla Orchards
Media, PA

Media’s Linvilla Orchards is the new home to Fore! The Planet – 18 holes of mini golf that teaches about the environment in an interactive miniature golf course. Fore! The Planet runs Friday through Saturday 9am – 8pm, Sunday 9am – 5pm. $4.95 for ages 10 and under. $6.95 for ages 11 and up.

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes
Bill + Tammy’s Children’s World Music Express
Saturday January 28
11:30am
World Café Live
Philadelphia, PA

Philly’s World Café Live is host to Bill + Tammy’s Children’s World Music Express on Saturday January 28th at 11:30am for a lively kids music show that is sure to get the whole family moving and featuring music from around the world using instruments from Greece, Africa, India, South America, Middle East and Asia. Tickets $7-$10.

Slide! & The Gingerbread Gift Reading and Craft Activity
with Author Cynthia Kreliick
Saturday January 28th
1:00 pm
Big Blue Marble Bookstore
Mt. Airy, PA

Slide! a bilingual children’s book about the historic wooden slide at SMITH Playground in Philadelphia invites children to coast with Samira down this amazing Philly landmark structure. And The Gingerbread Gift tells the tale of a gingerbread man who builds a house in the forest for his best friend. Author Cynthia Kreilick will read from both books at the Big Blue Marble this Saturday January 28th at 1pm. And each child will receive a loose-leaf coloring book of The Gingerbread Gift after the reading. Intended for children ages 3-7. Free.

Storytime with Max from Max & Ruby
Sunday January 29th
Please Touch Museum
Avenue of the Republic
Philadelphia, PA

If your kiddos are Max & Ruby fans, you should head on over to Philly’s Please Touch Museum on Sunday January 29th for visits with the rambunctious and determined rabbit, Max, for visits in the Story Castle at 12:30m and 3:30pm. In honor of Max & Ruby author Rosemary Wells birthday, Max will be reading stories and visiting with children. Free with paid admission to the museum. $15 for children and adults. Under 1 year are free.

Philadelphia Museum of Art Sunday Family Programs
Sunday January 29th
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia, PA

Take part in the Philadelphia Art Museum’s Family & Children’s programs this Sunday January 29th including:
• Early Bird Read and Look program on The Snow Day for ages 3-5 starting at 10:15am (tour meets in the West Lobby at the Family Cart)
• Family Gallery Tour for ages 6-10 featuring Discover Design (tour meets at 11:30am in the West Lobby at the Family Cart).
• Tours for Tots for ages 3-5 on Painting Nature (tour meets at 11:30am in the West Lobby at the Family Cart)
• Drawing Together for all ages from 12-3pm
All family events are free after museum admission. Adults $16. Children ages 13018 $12. Ages 12 and under Free.

Giveaway: Family 4 Pack and 2 VIP Upgrades for the Kids to Winter Sort of Thing All Hands On Deck

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:12:00 +0000

This wet January weekend is rich with opportunities for checking out some amazing local family-friendly theater including Yes! And… Collaborative Arts & Eastern University Theatre’s Winter Sort of Thing presenting All Hands on Deck this weekend January 27th through the 29, 2012

It's Hi-jinx on the high seas with imaginary friends, pirates, and more swash-buckling fun than you can shake a canoe at! In a world... where Imaginary Friends are real, Pirates are tricksters and Canoe-Dancing is a fine art, this year’s Winter Sort of Thing, All Hands on Deck, answers one of the great mysteries of the universe: Why are bananas SO darn funny? Join Yes! And... Collaborative Arts & Eastern University Theatre as we present our FIFTH annual Winter Sort of Thing, All Hands on Deck.

Lights up on two of our most favorite childhood themes: pirates and imaginary friends for this year’s Winter Sort of Thing. All Hands on Deck is written by Brooke Sexton and assisted by the children in Yes! And… Collaborative Arts’ programming. Germantown resident and composer Sarah C. Butts-Manzo, has written six new songs as this show maintains the Winter Sort of Thing's high level of artistry while reflecting the joyful and fun loving storytelling audiences have come to expect. All Hands on Deck challenges adults and kids alike to value the magic of imagination and importance of friendship.

All Hands on Deck runs one weekend only closing January 29. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for kids and seniors and $5 for students and are available to reserve at the box office at 215-951-0330 x2117 or on-line at www.wintersortofthing.com. The show runs approximately 60-70 minutes, is performed with an intermission and is appropriate for all ages.

One lucky phillyfun4kids reader can win a family 4 pack of tickets with 2 VIP upgrades for the kids for either Saturday or Sunday's shows!! All you have to do to enter is leave a comment below by Saturday January 28th at 7:30 am Eastern. The winner will be chosen using random.org and announced on Saturday morning before 9am.

Congratulations Lm317!!! You are our lucky winner! Please check your email.

Increase your chances to win by:
1. Like phillyfun4kids on facebook
2. Follow phillyfun4kids on twitter
3. Follow us on pinterest
4. And bonus -- if you tweet/re-tweet about the contest using the hashtag #phillyfun4kids, you get yet another chance to win.

Just be sure to leave an additional comment for each entry, please. If I'm doing my math correctly, that's a total of five chances to win!!

Don't forget to leave your name and email address so we can contact you Saturday am with details on how to claim your tickets if you win. Good luck!!

Note: VIP Upgrades are only available at the 1pm shows on Saturday and Sunday. VIP Upgrade includes the opportunity to Meet the Cast, play theater games, tour the set, an exclusive Q&A with the actors and a special goodie bag for each VIP kid!

Restrictions: Giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

Disclaimer: Giveaway tickets for this giveaway were provided by the Yes! And... and Eastern University Theater. All opinions expressed about pirates, theater, free-tickets or bananas are our own.

More Information:
The director of All Hands on Deck, Jake Miller is a Philadelphia based director and choreographer and a founder of Yes! And… Collaborative Arts. He has previously directed three Winter Sort of Thing shows and is joined on the creative staff by Kevin Monaghan, a recent graduate of Eastern University as the music director, Mark Duska as Technical Director/Set Design, along with Brooke Sexton and Mark Hallen, co-producers. All Hands on Deck stars area actors Shannon Flannery, Meredith Sexton, Natalie Cisternas, Anna Sweeny, Julia Shields and features Dr. Betsy Morgan. However, the real stars of the performance are the children and teens that participate in Yes! And... Collaborative Arts programs throughout the year. The children hail from Philadelphia neighborhoods in Kensington, Southwest, Brewerytown, Germantown and others. The Winter Sort of Thing allows them to use, refine and amplify the skills they are taught. The students also benefit from being a part of a professional production and collaborating with college students and professional actors and artists. Several high school performers were last seen at this summer’s Philadelphia Fringe Festival performing as SHADOW Company with the original piece, Green People.

Brooke Sexton, writer and producer of the Winter Sort of Thing and director of programming for Yes! And… Collaborative Arts has this to say about the production, “This is, by far my favorite Winter Sort of Thing. It explores themes that our kids imagined about all summer long and the songs featured will have the audience humming for weeks to come.” Fittingly, audience feedback is always so positive the Winter Sort of Thing garners rave reviews from old and young alike as they leave a performance.
About Yes! And… Collaborative Arts

Yes! And... Collaborative Arts’ mission is to: Equip children and young people with the tools to be better learners, to believe in themselves and to realize their dreams through the work of creating collaboratively with peers and professional artists. We work with children and youth from across Philadelphia in the collaborative and imaginative arts through Summer Theatre Camps, after school programs, SHADOW Company high school leadership and arts training, and (with Eastern University Theatre) the Winter Sort of Thing.

Giveaway: Family Four Pack of Tickets to Atlantic City Boat Show

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:34:00 +0000

I don't know about you but as soon as the craziness of Christmas and the holidays was over I immediately started thinking about the shore. Can't wait to get back down to the Jersey shore and think about summertime and sand and surf and fun in the sun. Which is why I'm so excited about our next giveaway: tickets to the Atlantic City Boat Show! Two lucky phillyfun4kids readers will each receive a family four pack of tickets to the upcoming Atlantic City Boatshow taking place February 1-5, 2012.

The Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show returns to its port of call, the Atlantic City Convention Center, February 1-5, to entertain, inform and equip families for a summer on the water. New and experienced boaters are invited to escape the winter chill and bask in the warmth of a 30 percent larger show with hundreds of boats of all types and sizes as well as thousands of boating accessories. And this year there are lots of events appropriate for all ages so the whole family can enjoy the show.

In addition to the swell of boats and accessories, this year’s show provides entertainment for anyone looking to enjoy the boating lifestyle. Visitors can test their maritime moxie in the new Boating Simulator, beat the clock to the dock in the Power Boat Docking Challenge, scuba dive (for real!), and hear riveting tales of rogue waves from a world-famous teenage sailing adventurer, Abby Sunderland.

Highlights of the 2012 Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show include:

New! Take the Wheel at the Boating Simulator: Visitors can take the helm and experience some of the most ferocious (or tranquil) sea conditions at the interactive Boating Simulator, brought to the show by the Annapolis School of Seamanship. Guests can drive boats ranging from cruise ships to coast guard vessels in lifelike boating settings and any weather condition, all shown on three giant flat screens.

New! Meet Famous Teenage Sailing Adventurer, Abby Sunderland: You may not recognize her name, but you know her story. At age of sixteen, Abby Sunderland set sail in a quest to become the youngest solo sailor ever to circumnavigate the globe, only to be thwarted by a rogue wave that left her lost at sea for two days. Visitors can meet Abby, learn the importance of training and faith, and get signed copies of her book, Unsinkable.

Try Scuba in the DEMA ‘Be a Diver Pool’: Try scuba in a heated pool! During the past seven years tens of thousands of people have been introduced to scuba diving in the DEMA 'Be a Diver Pool.” Anyone age 10 and older can discover the fun and exciting sport of scuba diving in the comfort of the tropically-warm pool. Not only can visitors scuba dive for free, but they can test some of the latest scuba equipment and have a photo taken underwater as a keepsake of their diving adventure.

New! Power Boat Docking Challenge: Novice and veteran boaters alike can become more confident at the helm at the Power Boat Docking Challenge. Participants will compete against the clock, steering and docking a 4-ft, twin engine, remote-controlled power boat from a life-size boat helm down a 20-ft.pool into a marina and ultimately a slip, for a chance to win prizes.

Miss GEICO Race Boat: The undisputed Offshore World Champion! Visitors to the Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show will have the chance to see four-time World Champion, famous offshore powerboat Miss GEICO. It’s not a boat; it’s a neon green catamaran missile!

New! Paddlepalooza: Paddle sports are taking the nation by storm, with fitness benefits and fun for all ages. Visitors new to the sensation or those looking for the latest paddle techniques, will find information on land paddling, board education, stroke techniques, and fitness paddling classes that this section of the show.

For the Little Skippers: Kids can join the fun at the Atlantic City Boat show navigating a mini lake in their own paddle boat and on Saturday, pose for photos with SpongeBob Squarepants, Bikini Bottom’s favorite resident. Inventive young boaters can Build A Boat! Presented by Sea Quest Kids, with the chance to build a life-size boat with their own hands while also learning about boating and water safety.

To enter to win a Family Four Pack of Tickets to the Atlantic City Boat Show, check out the show website at http://www.acboatshow.com/ and leave a comment below by Tuesday January 31st at 11:59 pm Eastern. The winner will be chosen using random.org and announced on Wednesday February 1st.

Increase your chances to win by:
1. Like phillyfun4kids on facebook
2. Follow phillyfun4kids on twitter
3. Follow us on pinterest
4. Like the Atlantic City Boatshow facebook page
5. Follow the Atlantic City Boatshow on twitter
6. And bonus -- if you tweet/re-tweet about the contest using the hashtag #phillyfun4kids, you get yet another chance to win.

Just be sure to leave an additional comment for each entry, please.
If I'm doing my math correctly, that's a total of seven chances to win!!

Don't forget to leave your name and email address so we can contact you with details on how to claim your tickets if you win. Good luck!!

Restrictions: Giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

Disclaimer: Giveaway tickets for this giveaway were provided by the Atlantic City Boat Show. All opinions expressed about boating or the shore are our own.

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Don’t let a little snow stop you from enjoying one of these fun family-friendly events this weekend. Get out and enjoy the start of Chinese New Year celebrations plus an ice sculpture competition and other winter fun for all!

Oliver!
Friday January 20th - Sunday January 22nd
The Hedgerow Theater
Media, PA

Your kiddos will love this classical musical Oliver! based on the 1838 novel by Dickens. Oliver! at Hedgerow Theater kicks-off this weekend with shows running Friday January 20th at 7:30pm through Sunday January 22nd at 2pm. See website for full show schedule. Celebrate Dickens’ 200th birthday by enjoying this family friendly showing of this classic tale. Tickets $10 for children and $20 for adults.

Ice Sculpture Demonstration at Grounds for Sculpture
Sunday January 22nd
2pm
Hamilton, NJ

Bundle ‘em up and bring the whole family out for this ice sculpture demonstration at the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ this Sunday January 22nd starting at 2pm. Watch artists carve amazing displays from blocks of ice. Free with admission. $8-$12. Ages 4 and younger free.

Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Friday January 20th - Sunday January 22nd
10am - 5pm
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

This new exhibit at The Franklin Institute features two dozen humongous actual skeletons, dinosaur recreations, and full sized robotics. Kids will love the hands-on “dino-dig” too! $18-$25 includes general museum admission.

Fore! The Planet Indoor Golf
Friday January 20th - Sunday January 22nd
Linvilla Orchards
Media, PA

Media’s Linvilla Orchards is the new home to Fore! The Planet – 18 holes of mini golf that teaches about the environment in an interactive miniature golf course. Fore! The Planet runs Friday through Saturday 9am – 8pm, Sunday 9am – 5pm. $4.95 for ages 10 and under. $6.95 for ages 11 and up.

EUREKA! Family Art Workshop at Abington Art Center
Sunday January 22nd
11am
Jenkintown, PA

This fun family art workshop at the Abington Art Center brings together families around a new art project each month designed for all skill and age levels and inspired by the art featured in the Abington Art Center galleries. This month’s workshop runs Sunday January 22nd starting at 11am. Cost is $10 per family.

Chinese New Year Community Gala
Sunday January 22nd
1-5pm
Main Line Chinese Culture Center
Great Valley High School
Malvern, PA

Join hundreds of families from around the region in this free annual Chinese New Year Community Gala celebration on Sunday January 22nd from 1-5pm at Great Valley High School. Complete with entertainment, cultural games and prizes, refreshment and fun this annual gala will be fun for families with kids of all ages and from all backgrounds.

Valentine's Day Crafts 4 Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:14:00 +0000

If you're anything like us, now that the holiday decorations are finally all down and the doldrums of winter have really set in, we find ourselves turning our inner Martha to decorating for Valentine's Day. It's not much - maybe some lace hearts on the window which always seem to brighten it up a bit at least. Or a wreath here and there. This year, I've searched for some other great ways to brighten up your winter abode with Valentine's inspired crafts for the kiddos. Check out these cute Valentine's Day crafts that are easy enough to make with your kids and sure to brighten your winter walls and windows to help get you through the next few weeks of winter blahs.

Paper Love Bug - This cute little paper love bug is easy and sweet and sure to bring a smile to your little's face.

Stained Glass Hearts - Imagine making many of these stained glass hearts to hang around the house or even just one single one for your little Valentine to enjoy.

Salt dough heart pins and magnets - What kid doesn't love playing with salt dough? These Valentine inspired salt dough pins and magnets will be easy and fun for you littles to make and give.

Paper Conversation Heart Wreath - This paper conversation heart wreath is so super easy and can make lots of rooms in your house festive and fun to brighten up these cold winter months.

Stained Glue Valentine's Hearts - A little more complicated of a craft but sure to brighten any winter window, these stained glue valentine's hearts are too cute.

Sweet Spot Hearts - If you have a little candy fiend (like I do) these button candy hearts will be a huge hit. And so easy, too!

Crayon Hearts - Can you tell I'm a little obsessed with hearts on the windows? Here's yet another craft to help brighten up those winter windows! Check out these lovely crayon hearts, too!

Love Bug Card Holder - This cute little Love Bug Valentines Holder is easy and can be used for decoration or to hold your little's Valentine's.

MLK Day 2nd Annual Peace Up, Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:29:00 +0000

Our blogging friend Brandi from Mama Knows It All has inspired us to join her Martin Luther King 2nd Annual Peace Up, Link Up this year. Her challenge to us all was to: write a post on what you believe defines peace based on the following quote by Dr. King:

"True peace is not merely the absence of tension. It is the presence of justice."

To me this quote inspires me to think of that better world, the world we sadly do not live in now. The world where:

~ U.S. Soldiers would never dare to urinate on another person's body or humiliate them in any way, shape or form. Because at a basic human level that is so very wrong and sad and ugly.

~ Children would never have to worry that the adults in their lives would harm them, physically, emotionally or sexually in unthinkable and unspeakable ways. Because children are precious gifts bestowed to all of our care and this trust with the adults in their lives should never be broken in such unthinkable ways.

~ The government would never for the sake of a pretty penny allow (or even encourage) chemicals and inhumane handling of food that our babies and and children eat. Because people deserve to not be exposed to unnecessary toxic chemicals that could seriously harm them or their children for the rest of their lives.

~ Quality education would be an inalienable right provided to all children regardless of income or socioeconomic status. Because education should be uniformly offered across the board so that all of the children get the same opportunities to become intelligent, responsible, contributing members to our global society.

~ All people everywhere had food to eat. Period. Because no man, woman or child should be forced to endure the pain of starvation and famine.

~ Research to cure diseases like cancer and HIV AIDS would be a top priority for all countries that had resources, facilities, and scientists working on these global health problems. Because with enough funding and resources, these deadly diseases that have taken so many of our loved ones can and will be cured.

- Affordable, quality healthcare would be available for all people. Period. Because everyone deserves access to the healthcare they need regardless of income or status.

- Banks would spend more time helping families and seniors stay in their homes than kicking them to the curbs and forcing foreclosures. Because banks and businesses would realize that putting people out on the street out of the homes they grew up in and raised their babies in is bad business even if it does improve the bottom line.

- Countries would stop being blind to the changes in the climate that will have serious impact on the lives of our children and their children for years to come. Because the future of our planet is important and and should not be swept under the rug or politely ignored.

- People all around the globe would be tolerant of each other and embrace and encourage differences. Because we are each other's brothers and sisters in this great big world and by helping each other and loving each other we build a stronger societal family for generations to come.

I know this is a simplistic view but to me this would be the presence of justice that best exemplifies Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy and dream.

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to everyone. I hope the 2nd Annual Peace Up, Link Up has maybe inspired you to think for a moment about what the presence of justice means for you. And thanks to Mama Brandi for the great Link Up! If you'd like to join the 2nd Annual Peace Up, Link Up head on over to Mama Knows It All today Monday, January 16th and link up! You can share your posts, and read others by following the hashtag #peaceup on twitter. Let's keep Dr. King's dream going by spreading peace!

Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 01:31:00 +0000

Most kids and many parents have off this Monday for the national Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Philadelphia is rich with opportunities to serve in ways that suit you and your family and help your own community. Check out these fantastic events to honor this important American and his dream. All events take place on Monday January 16th unless otherwise noted.

17th Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service
Philadelphia

Join over 75,000 volunteers in the greater Philadelphia who will be donating their time and energies to the 17th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Find a project, register your local project and volunteer at http://www.mlkdayofservice.org/

OrKID Day at Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square, PA

OrKID Day at Longwood Gardens which takes place during Longwood Gardens spectacular Orchid Extravaganza, is a special day filled with crafts, a kid‘s performance by Sharon Katz & the Peace Train, specially planned activities such as a “Dreams for Our World” activity where kids can share their dreams for peace and beauty in the world. OrKID day runs Monday January 16th from 12 pm – 3pm. Free with paid admission.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service Celebration
National Constitution Center
Independence Mall
Philadelphia, PA

Philly’s own National Constitution Center is host to a day of celebration with events to include a quilting service project for the Women Against Abuse shelter and learn how quilting has brought communities together throughout history. Take part in a MLK-related sing-a-long concert with Two of a Kind featuring songs, sign language, movement and stories. Plus college students from local universities will read aloud from Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legendary “I Have A Dream” speech. Enjoy a performance by The International Opera Theater in partnership with ValueDIversity.org and more. Free with admission, $8-$12.

Martin Luther King Weekend
Dream and Draw Peace Mural
Please Touch Museum
Memorial Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Kids can help create a peace mural at the Please Touch Museum by drawing ideas, wishes and stories about peace using stamps and markers. Plus visitors can fill out special “I Have a Dream” cards to share a wish for peace which they can hang on the wall, share or take home. Free with paid admission. $15. Children under 1 free.

University of Pennsylvania’s Day of Service
Across Penn Campus
Philadelphia, PA

Take part in the University of Pennsylvania’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of service with events running from 8:30am – 9pm on Monday January 16th. Join your neighbors for a Community Breakfast served at 8:30am inside Houston Hall’s Hall of Flags and featuring a community beautification project, children’s banner painting and more. For full details and event schedule see http://www.upenn.edu/pennnews/news/penn-honors-martin-luther-king-jr-day-service.

Citizens Bank presents Sharing the Heritage
African American Museum in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA

The African American Museum of Philadelphia, Citizens Bank and other local partners present this day of service and celebration of the life and principles of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday January 16th from 10am - 5 pm. Various activities throughout the day including historical reenactments, storytelling, a scavenger hunts, a food drive, cultural entertainment and more will entertain and educate while offering opportunities for children to learn an important message about service.

Free Concert by the Philadelphia Orchestra
Martin Luther King High School
Philadelphia, PA

The Philadelphia Orchestra will perform its 22nd annual FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert at Martin Luther King High School on Monday January 16th at 3pm. Celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by joining members of the community for this free cultural event which will combine the traditions of African-American culture and Western classical music. The concert pays tribute to King’s vision of a society free of prejudice and racial divisions, and his belief in the power of music to help create positive change. Free.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
National Museum of American Jewish History
Philadelphia, PA

Everyone can take part in this free day of family-friendly celebration and activity at the National Museum of American Jewish History on Monday January 16th from 10am – 5pm featuring self-guided tours, a special screening of episodes of “Eyes on the Prize”, a special freedom-themed watercolor project for children ages 5 and up and other special exhibit and activities designed to educate and pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. King. Free.

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 01:45:00 +0000

It’s a long holiday weekend for most kids this weekend – hooray! Enjoy that extra day with your kids either in service to honor Martin Luther King Jr. or at one of these fun family friendly events taking place in and around Philly this weekend.

Meet Clifford the Big Red Dog
Saturday January 14th
10am - 2pm
The Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia, PA

Come out to the Treehouse at the Philadelphia Zoo this weekend to enjoy a weekend of meet and greets with everyone’s favorite big red dog, Clifford! Learn why dogs make good pets (and why orangutans do not!) Clifford will be on hand for visits with the kids and story readings from 10am – 2pm on Saturday January 14th and Sunday January 15th. Free with Zoo admission.

Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Saturday January 14th and Sunday January 15th
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

This new Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibit at The Franklin Institute features two dozen humongous actual skeletons, dinosaur recreations, and full sized robotics. Kids will love the hands-on “dino-dig” too! $18-$25 includes general museum admission.

Fore! The Planet Indoor Golf
Saturday January 14th 9am - 8pm
Sunday January 15th 9am - 5pm
Linvilla Orchards
Media, PA

Media’s Linvilla Orchards is the new home to Fore! The Planet – 18 holes of mini golf that teaches about the environment in an interactive miniature golf course. Fore! The Planet runs Friday through Saturday 9am – 8pm, Sunday 9am – 5pm. $4.95 for ages 10 and under. $6.95 for ages 11 and up.

Heat Wave Weekend
Saturday January 14th and Sunday January 15th
Academy of Natural Sciences
Philadelphia, PA

Get away from that winter chill this weekend by taking part in Heat Wave Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences this weekend. Learn about expeditions to the hottest places on Earth. Conduct a climate change experiment and get to know animals that have developed unique ways of coping with the heat. Plus make a sun catcher craft to capture some of that sunshine and bring home with you. Free with admission. $10-$12, ages 2 and younger free.

The Three Little Kittens
Saturday January 14th
11am
The Hedgerow Theater
Media, PA

Your kiddos will love The Three Little Kittens which kicks-off this Saturday January 14th at Media’s Hedgerow Theater. Can these poor kittens find their mittens and will they get their pie? Find out this and more at this family friendly children’s theater experience at 11am. Tickets $9 for children and $11 for adults. Plus bring old towels or cans and bags of cat and dog food for donation to the Delaware Valley S.P.C.A.

The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Exhibit Hall E
Philadelphia PA

Winter blues got you dreaming of getting away? Well, check out this weekend’s Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show running Saturday January 14th and Sunday January 15th at the Pennsylvania Convention Center where you will find national travel experts as well as local celeb chefs wine tastings, entertainment and family fun like live appearances from Philadelphia Zoo animals, a moonbounce, and a balloon artists. $8 online in advance. $10 at the door. Ages 16 and younger free.

Kids’ Winter Handwork Workshop
Sunday January 15th
3pm
The Handwork Studio
Narberth, PA

Kids will love this project-based winter workshop at Narberth’s Handwork Studio on Sunday January 15th at 3:00pm where they’ll learn sewing, embroidery and more in a fun, engaging, educational and creative atmosphere! Geared for Grades K-6. $45

Caring Community Carnival
Sunday January 15th
2-4:30pm
The Haverford School
Haverford, PA

In memory of Martin Luther King Jr. variety, the children’s charity will host a free Caring Community Carnival for children with developmental disabilities on Sunday January 15th from 2-4:30pm. Volunteers from The Haverford School, Baldwin School, and the Agnes Irwin School will come together to suppor this wonderful event featuring games, sports, clowns, jugglers, arts and crafts, refreshments and more. Free. Register at the door.

Meet Clifford the Big Red Dog at the Philly Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 03:31:00 +0000

Meet Clifford the Big Red Dog at the Philadelphia Zoo this weekend on Saturday January 14th and Sunday January 15th from 10am - 2pm. Kids will be thrilled to meet their favorite character while visiting the amazing Philadelphia Zoo. Stop by the Treehouse to meet Clifford and enjoy storytimes, too! Learn why dogs make good pets (and why orangutans do not!), listen to Clifford stories and sign up for the WHYY Kids Club. Free with Zoo admission.

New Year, New You Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 04:25:00 +0000

How are you all holding up with your New Year's Resolutions? I know I'm still working on making mine. (I have them in my head but never put them down on paper. Maybe I'm better off that way and now don't have to worry about not living up to my own expectations, huh?)

But, I know many of you are a heck of a lot more organized and motivated than I am so to help you with your New Year's resolution to build in some quality "mommy" time and pampering for yourself in this new year, we're offering phillyfun4kids readers a pretty awesome giveway that we hope you'll enjoy.

Enter to win a full sized ANEW Clinical Advanced Retexturing Peel valued at $25. Trust me - this peel is amazing. It's the closest thing you can come to getting a glycolic peel without going to the dermatologist's office. And, it's the winner of Allure Magazine's Best of Beauty Award for Best Peel. Now, in 1 easy step! See results superior to a professional 35% glycolic peel. At home. No appointment necessary. The advanced exfoliator safely retexturizes and resurfaces skin. Formulated with soothing botanicals, it helps nourish and calm skin. Peels away dullness and visible age damage so healthier skin cells can surface. Full sized product contains 30 unscented pads.

Trust me, I've demo'ed this product to groups of women and everyone loves it. When you use it, you will get compliments on your skin and I guarantee you will see a difference. (Ok, well maybe I don't exactly guarantee it but I'm more than willing to bet that you will!)

To enter just leave a comment below telling us what your New Year's Resolution to yourself is by Sunday January 22nd at 11:59 pm Eastern. The winner will be chosen using random.org and announced on Monday January 23rd.

CONGRATULATIONS Nancy Vecchione! You are the lucky winner!!

Increase your chances to win by:
1. Like phillyfun4kids on facebook (and leave a comment that you did or already like us below)
2. Follow phillyfun4kids on twitter (and leave another comment below to say you follow us)
3. Follow us on pinterest (and leave a comment below to say that you follow us)
4. Like my "Not Your Mamma's AVON" facebook page" (and leave a comment below to say that you liked it)
5. And bonus -- if you tweet/re-tweet about the contest using the hashtag #phillyfun4kids, you get yet another chance to win.

If I'm doing my math correctly, that's a total of six chances to win!!

You must leave your name and email address so we can contact you about shipping your prize if you win. Good luck!!

Restrictions: Giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

Disclaimer: This giveaway is provided solely by me and sponsored my own Independent AVON Sales business. I happen to love Avon products and am happy to share this product purchased by me with you all!

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 01:17:00 +0000

It’s the first full weekend of 2012 with lots to do in and around Philadelphia for families. Enjoy “pay what you wish” Sunday at the Philadelphia Art Museum, check out “Fore! The Planet” Indoor Mini-Golf at Linvilla Orchards, take part in the family-friendly Archaeology Fair at the Franklin Institute, search for Grecian Vessels at the Penn Museum, enjoy a concert by kindie rock star Gustafer Yellowgold at World Café Live! and much more. Whatever you do, just get out there and have some fun!

Fore! The Planet Indoor Mini Golf
Saturday January 7th
9am - 8pm
Linvilla Orchards
137 W. Knowlton Rd.
Media, PA

Media’s Linvilla Orchards is the new home to Fore! The Planet – 18 holes of mini golf that teaches about the environment in an interactive miniature golf course. Fore! The Planet runs this weekend Friday through Saturday 9am – 8pm. $4.95 for ages 10 and under. $6.95 for ages 11 and up.

Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Saturday January 7th and Sunday January 8th
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

This new Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs exhibit at The Franklin Institute features two dozen humongous actual skeletons, dinosaur recreations, and full sized robotics. Kids will love the hands-on “dino-dig” too! $18-$25 includes general museum admission.

12th Annual Archaeology Fair
Saturday January 7th
10am - 4pm
Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

The 12th Annual Archaeology Fair sponsored by The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) takes place this Saturday January 7th from 10am – 4pm at the Franklin Institute and promises to be fun and educational for all ages. The event will features archaeology themed programs and interactive activities for the whole family. This is your chance to dig into archaeology and uncover the past! Free with paid admission to the Franklin Institute.

Cheer for a Healthy New Year
Saturday January 7th
10am - 12:30pm
SMITH The Kids Playplace
Philadelphia, PA

Kids 5 and under are welcome to attend SMITH's free Cheer for a Healthier New Year on Saturday January 7th from 10am - 12:30pm. Join the Junior League of Philadelphia for a healthy celebration complete with fruit and vegetable themed games, crafts, and more. Free.

Kids in Center City Saturday Play Date
Saturday January 7th
11am - 1pm
Market & Shops at Comcast Center
Lower Level
Philadelphia, PA

Head out to the Shops at Comcast Center this Saturday January 7th from 11am – 1pm for some free family fun at the Kids In Center City Saturday Playdate with music by Music Monkey Jungle, a live musical and interactive movement class for the littlest monkeys and the parents who love them. Plus kids get to enjoy balloon animals, face painting, make and take crafts and kid-friendly lunch specials. Free.

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Gustafer Yellowgold
Saturday January 7th
11:30am
World Café Live
Philadelphia, PA

Kids will have a blast at the Peanut Butter and Jams featured show at the World Café Live in Philadelphia this Saturday January 7th at 11:30am. Kindie rock star, Gustafer Yellowgold, presents a truly unique multimedia experience that is equal parts rock concert and animated storybook and will entertain children and adults alike. Tickets $12 adults, $9 for kids.

Family Sunday: Grecian Vessels at the Penn Museum
Sunday January 8th
1pm
The Penn Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
3260 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

Families will enjoy this hands-on drop in program featuring the objects of the Grecian Gallery at the Penn Museum this Sunday January 8th at 1pm. Go on a scavenger hunt throughout the gallery to reveal different shapes and uses of vases. Illustrate your own 2-D Greek pottery shape to take home and more! Free with Museum admission $6-$10. Ages 5 and under free.

Philadelphia Museum of Art Sunday Family Programs & Pay What You Wish
Sunday January 8th
10:00 am - 3pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia, PA

The first Sunday of the month means Pay What You Wish Admission at the Philadelphia Museum of Art this Sunday January 8th from 10am – 5pm. And take part in the museum’s Family & Children’s programs offering:
• Early Bird Read and Look program on The Snow Day for ages 3-5 starting at 10:15am (tour meets in the West Lobby at the Family Cart)
• Family Gallery Tour for ages 6-10 featuring Discover Design (tour meets at 11:30am in the West Lobby at the Family Cart).
• Tours for Tots for ages 3-5 on Painting Nature (tour meets at 11:30am in the West Lobby at the Family Cart)
• Drawing Together for all ages from 12-3pm
What a great and affordable way to take the whole family to the art museum without worrying that you paid full admission if you have to leave early for naps or one of your little one melts down in one of the exhibits. Free. Donations welcomed.

Kindness Counts Month at Please Touch Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:28:00 +0000

This January, Philly's Please Touch Museum is partnering with the 24-hour preschool television channel Sprout to present Kindness Counts, an initiative to introduce the concept of kindness to young children and help Sprout reach their goal of one million acts of kindness. Throughout the museum, children will be recognized for their acts of kindness and record it on a Kindness Ring which will be added to their Curtain of Kindness located in the program room.

Add your child's kind act online at www.SproutOnline.com/Kindnesscounts

Plus, Sean and Chica from Sprout's The Sunny Side Up Show will be on hand to kick off Kindness Counts Month at Please Touch Museum this Thursday, January 5, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Happy 2012, Friends!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:16:00 +0000

Happy New Year Friends! Hope you all had a wonderful New Year's Eve! We spent the day celebrating family style complete with a Countdown to Noon balloon drop organized by our friend Jessica Mudrick of DelcoPAMoms and then moved onto a romp at the playground, lunch at Pizzeria Stella, New Year's Eve sundaes at Johnny Rockets and wrapping up with the family fireworks show on Penn's Landing. It was a great, if exhausting, day. And today, we rest. Poor DH has a killer ear infection that might just land him in the hospital today for our first hospital visit of the New Year. Other than that, rather than head down to the Free Family Day at the Kimmel as we'd intended, I think we'll lay low, watch the Mummers on TV and have some pork and sauerkraut later. Hope you all spend the day with your families doing whatever makes you most happy.

And here's to a happy, healthy 2012 for all!

Family Friendly New Year's Eve Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 13:52:00 +0000

2012 is almost here! What a great weekend to get out with the whole family and ring in the new year. Check out these fantastic family-friendly fun events to help you and your kiddos celebrate the New Year together!

Betsy’s New Year’s Birthday Bash
Saturday December 31st
11am - 4pm
Betsy Ross House
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
215.686.1252

Head on over to the Betsy Ross House on Saturday December 31st from 11am-4pm for the 260th birthday celebration for Betsy Ross, born January 1, 1752. Children will get to participate in special crafts and games as well as sing Happy Birthday to Betsy herself and enjoy a delicious birthday cake at 1:30pm provided by City Tavern. Free with paid admission. $4 for adults, $3 for children.

New Year’s Eve at Franklin Square
Saturday December 31st
5-7pm
Between 6th and 7th Streets and Race
Philadelphia, PA

Countdown the New Year at Franklin Square with this kids’ version of the ball drop but with a square drop instead! Enjoy music and fun for all from 5-6pm. Kids can decorate their own party hats. Plus the Penn’s Landing Fireworks (with shows at 6pm and midnight) are visible from Franklin Square. Square Drop starts at 6pm. Free.

Countdown 2 Noon!
Please Touch Museum
Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park
Philadelphia, PA
215-581-3181

Most little kids can’t make it till midnight but that doesn’t mean they should miss the countdown fun! The Please Touch Museum hosts its annual Countdown 2 Noon celebration on Saturday December 31st allowing kids the ability to have the fun of a countdown to ring in the New Year, too. Enjoy musical entertainment by Louie Miranda and Fandango as well as a parents and kids dance party, confetti, special crafts and storytelling and special appearances by Madeline, Wild Thing, and and King Countdown, the Museum’s official grand marshal of New Years Eve celebrations. Countdowns at 12pm and 1pm. Free with paid admission to the museum.

Ropin’ in the New Year Family
Saturday December 31st
Swarthmore Community Center
715 Harvard Ave
Swarthmore, PA

Don’t want to keep the kiddos up till midnight but hate to miss all the excitement? Head out to the Swarthmore Community Center’s Ropin’ in the New Year family friendly party with light refreshments, make and take crafts, games, and a balloon drop at Noon. $5 per child or $10 per family. RSVP requested on their facebook page.

DaVinci Science Center
Saturday December 31st
6-10pm
Family New Year’s 2012 Party
3145 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA
484-664-1002

Enjoy the Lehigh Valley’s DaVinci Science Center’s indoor family New Year’s 2012 party on Saturday December 31st from 6-10pm. This “glow in the dark” party presented by Walmart will be filled with hands-on science activities, live magic shows, a hot dinner and dessert. Tickets are $39 for adults and $29 for children. Get tickets online or by calling 484.664.1002, Ext. 102.

New Years at Noon
Saturday December 31st
10am - 3pm
Garden State Discovery Museum
Cherry Hill, NJ
856-424-1233

The Garden State Discovery Museum hosts its annual New Years at Noon (and 10am and 2pm) Party on Saturday December 31st. The entire Museum will be singing and dancing and counting down to 2012 with family fun and celebrations! Free with regular admission $10.95.

New Year’s Celebration
National Constitution Center
Philadelphia, PA
215-409-6600

The National Constitution Center will host a New Years Celebration on Saturday January 31st from 10am – 3pm. Learn about the history of New Year’s holiday and how cultures around the world celebrate it differently including the Ball Drop in Times Square, singing “Auld Lang Syne” as well as traditions unique to Philadelphia such as the Mummer’s parade. Free with paid admission.

New Year’s at Noon
Saturday December 31st
Noon
The Little Treehouse
Chestnut Hill, PA
215-247-3637

The Little Treehouse Play Café will host its New Year’s at Noon event for families on Saturday December 31st with special goodies, plenty of noisemakers and their own version of a balldrop! Free with admission. No registration required.

Giggleberry Fair
Saturday December 31st
10am - 6pm
Lahaska, Bucks County
215.794.4047

Bucks County’s own Giggleberry Fair in Peddler’s Village is celebrating the New Year with a fun family-friendly event on Saturday December 31st from 10am – 6pm with countdowns at Noon and 4pm as well as juice toasts, make your own noisemakers and hats, and goodie bags for all children. Free with admission.

Midnight at the Oasis
Sahara Sam’s
West Berlin, NJ
856-767-7580

Countdown to the New Year at New Jersey’s coolest Family New Year’s Eve event at Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park on Saturday December 31st from 7pm – 12:30am. Splash the nightaway on Sahara Sam’s water attractions, rip up the dance floor with your best moves, enjoy a delicious hot buffet dinner, plus games, contests and more. And to cap it all off ring in 2012 with a toast and FOAM PARTY! Tickets are $54.99 per person and include admission to the water park, dinner buffet and dessert provided by Andreott’s Viennese Café, a $5 arcade card, party favor and toast (champagne for adults and sparkling cider for the children. PLUS get a free admission to Sahara Sam’s for use on another day!

Mummers Fancy Brigade Fest & Finale
Sunday January 1st
11:30am - 7pm
Pennsylvania Convention Center
1101 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA

Of course, there is always the wonderful annual Philadelphia Mummers parade for families this Sunday January 1s but if you don’t feel like braving the weather you can take the kids indoors for The Fancy Brigades Finale shows. The Fancy Brigades parade in lavish costumes indoors at the Pennsylvania Convention Center starting at 11:30 am. Kids can meet and greet with the Fancy Brigade, take some photos with the mummers and also partake in a Giant Mummers Strut. Then at noon the Mummers each perform a shortened version (4.5 minutes) of their performances by each of the 11 competing Fancy Brigades making for a fabulous family show. Tickets are $19 per ticket. (There is also a second evening showing at 5pm for those interested.)

New Year’s Day at the Kimmel Center
Sunday January 1st
Kimmel Center
260 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA
215-790-5800

As part of its Free at the Kimmel Center series, families can enjoy the best view of the Mummer’s Parade plus special live entertainment all free at The Kimmel Center for its 10th Anniversary Festivities on Sunday, January 1st, 2012. Children can enjoy free face painting, balloons and crafts as well as a stilt walker/juggler. Live indoor entertainment includes Vanessa Trien, Steve Pullara & His Cool Beans, Broadway Dreams Foundation, and the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble to get the whole family grooving. Plus of course enjoy free indoor viewing of the live New Year’s Day parade and watch the famous Philadelphia Mummers make their way down Broad Street in steppin’ style. Beverages and food by Wolfgang Puck will also be available for purchase for both big and little guest including Peppermint and Snowflake Martinis for the adults and Candy Cane Cocoa for the little ones. Free.

Beat Cabin Fever This Winter Break

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:03:00 +0000

The holidays are over so now it’s time to hunker down and enjoy the rest of this long holiday week cramped up inside at home with the kiddos, right? Better yet, beat cabin fever with one of these great play options for banishing the “I’m bored” blahs (or the "these kids are driving bonkers if I don't get out of this house immediately I'm going to scream" blues) this holiday vacation. And many winter session classes are registering now so be sure to sign up soon if you want to keep the fun going through the long winter ahead.

Nest Philly
1301 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA
215-545-6378
www.nestphilly.com

Philly’s newest indoor play oasis, Nest, reopened its doors from the holiday break on Monday December 26th with lots of fantastic drop in classes that will keep your kiddos entertained for hours. Check out drop-in classes for ages newborn up through 7 years with everything from Karate Kids, Me and My Sous Chef, Bend it like Beckham Soccer and much more. Plus kids will never want to leave Nest’s indoor, eco-friendly playspace featuring a giant treehouse to climb and slide down, farmer’s market toys and more! Call or check out the website to register or see full pricing details.

The Creative Living Room
15 Chester Road
Swarthmore, PA
610.544.5800
www.thecreativelivingroom.com

Swarthmore’s The Creative Living Room is offering its new winter session starting on January 9th with classes ranging from family yoga, art classes, language classes, tai chi and many more. Plus, enjoy their free trial week Monday January 9th – Saturday January 14th. Email Lynn@thecreativelivingroom.com or call 610-544-5800 to reserve a spot for a free class!

The Little Gym
Area Locations
www.thelittlegym.com

The Little Gym with locations all throughout the Philadelphia area offers classes for kids of all ages featuring parent child classes for infants and pre-school through grade school gymnastics classes for ages 3-12 years. The Little Gym also offers sports skills development and dance classes. Your child will delight in learning flips, tumblesaults, jazz, sports skills and more this winter at an indoor Little Gym facility near you.

Romp n” Roll Willow Grove
2856 W. Moreland Road
Willow Grove, PA
215-659-1025
www.rompnroll.com/willowgrove/

Romp n” Roll Willow Grove is packed with new ways for little ones to play and stretch their bodies and minds. Romp n’ Roll classes are available for infants through 5 years of age with a range of music, science, gymnastics and more. Call or check out the website to register or stop in for a trial class anytime!

Philly Art Center
http://public.phillyartcenter.com/
215-765-ARTS

Fairmount Art Center
2501 Olive Street
Philadelphia

Queen Village Art Center
514 Bainbridge Street
Philadelphia

With two locations to serve Philadelphia families kids can take classes at the Philly Art Center at either the Fairmount or Queen Village locations. The winter 2012 session starts January 9th and features classes like Art Explorers, Art Start, Elements of Art in 2D and 3D plus movement, dance, and more.

Kehler’s Gym
680 Parkway Blvd
Broomall PA 19008
610-359-9999
http://kidsfun.org/

Delaware County’s Kehler’s Gym is home to one of the best indoor gymnastics centers in the area. With classes for ages 15 months through high school kids get to learn the basics of gymnastics in this top-notch facility. Plus, Kehler’s has cheer and tumbling classes for your little spirited one. Take advantage of their risk free introductory offer of a first class free if you don’t love it!

The Little Treehouse
10 West Gravers Lane
Chestnut Hill, PA
215-247-3637
http://www.treehouseplaycafe.com/

The Little Treehouse Play Café in Chestnut Hill is a fantastic facility with several indoor play spaces for your littles to play and learn. Classes are offered in yoga, dance, gymnastics, move and music and more! Plus enjoy the great café for a delicious healthy lunch or coffee and a snack while your little one is having a blast. Bonus – sign up for a class now and get unlimited free admission to the Treehouse, too!

Gymboree Play & Learn
Area Locations
www.gymboreeclasses.com

The time tested mom approved Gymboree has locations throughout the Philadelphia region that offer classes for a range of ages from newborns to 5 years. Their cornerstone class is the Gymboree play and learn but Gymboree also offers classes in music, arts, sports, school skills and more! Get a free class by signing up at a location near you.

Merry Christmas to all

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 17:46:00 +0000

Wishing you and your family a very merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy 2012!

Happy Hanukkah Fun Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:32:00 +0000

(photo courtesy: Vegan Guineapig)

To all our friends celebrating, Happy Hanukkah!! Here are some local Hanukkah fun picks the whole family can enjoy!

Hershel & The Hanukkah Goblins Show
December 20-31th
Check website for show times
Painted Bride Art Center
Philadelphia, PA

This fun for all ages show features a stage adaptation of the popular children's book by the same name by Eric Kimmel at Philly's Painted Bride Theater running Tuesday December 20th through December 31st. Tickets $25 for adults, $16 for children.

Moo Shu Jew Show
Saturday December 24th
Joy Tsin Lau
Chinatown
Philadelphia, PA

This one is more for the adults so get Bubby to babysit and head to the Joy Tsin Lau for Chinese food for Christmas at the Moo Shu Jew Show!! Enjoy Jewish-inspired stand-up comedy and a special Chinese meal during this show sponsored by the Gershman Y. The food will consist of a sampling of dishes from many of Chinatown's best restaurants. Tickets $65 in advance, $70 at the door.

Being Jewish at Christmas
Sunday December 25th
10am - 5:30pm
National Museum of Jewish American History
Philadelphia, PA

Nothing to do on Christmas Day - no problem! This wonderful event at the National Museum of Jewish American History will feature music, food, children's activities and much more, offering a great way for those who do not celebrate Christmas to spend the day "Being Jewish at Christmas" together. Free with museum admission. $5 for children 12 and under. $11 ages 13-21. $12 for adults.

South Jersey Car Menorah Parade
Sunday December 25th
5-7:30pm
parade begins at The Chabad Center 1925 Kresson Rd
at 6pm Sahara Sams Oasis hosts South Jersey's Largest Menorah Lighting & Celebration

Don't miss this unique celebration of Hanukkah with the Parade of Car Menorahs taking place in South Jersey on Saturday December 25th. And after the parade, head to Sahara Sams Oasis for South Jersey's Largest Menorah Lighting & Celebration.

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:28:00 +0000

Where in the world did December go? How can it possibly be only one weekend left until Christmas? This is it!! Time to get out now and enjoy all the holiday fun before it’s gone. Because after next weekend it will all be a memory of Christmas past. And of course this coming week marks the start of Hanukkah so be sure to take the whole family out to celebrate this festival of lights, too!

Voices of Christmas
Friday Dec. 16th - Sunday Dec. 18th
Shows Friday and Saturday at 8pm, Sunday at 2pm
Theatre Horizon at The Centre Theater
Norristown, PA

This beautiful Voices of Christmas holiday show for the whole family features a celebration of the joy of the season with Broadway music, jazz, folk and rock by Philadelphia’s best musical theater talent. Opening night show is Friday December 16th at 8pm. Additional shows Saturday December 17th at 8pm and Sunday December 18th at 2pm. Tickets run $21-$39.

Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Friday Dec. 16th - Sunday Dec. 18th
10am - 6pm
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA

The new Giant Mysterious Dinosaurs Exhibit at The Franklin Institute features two dozen humongous actual skeletons, dinosaur recreations, and full sized robotics. Kids will love the hands-on “dino-dig” too! $18-$25 includes general museum admission.

The Cat’s Pajamas Rock the Holidays at The Little Treehouse
Saturday Dec. 17th
11-11:45am
The Little Treehouse
Philadelphia, PA

Head on over to The Little Treehouse in Chestnut Hill on Saturday December 17th for a very special musical performance by The Cat’s Pajamas! Performing holiday classics as well as songs from their latest CD, Backseat Driver. Plus enjoy a buffet lunch following the show! Performance runs 11 – 11:45am. $10 for kids, $5 for adults.

Santa Days
Saturday Dec. 17th - Sunday Dec. 18th
10am - 3pm
The Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia, PA  

Enjoy the holidays like never before at Santa Days at the Philadelphia Zoo running Saturday and Sunday December 17th and 18th from 10am – 3pm. Watch the animals “open presents”, sing Christmas Carols to the animals, join the Zoo Holiday Parade, watch Santa as he feeds the penguins, polar bears and tortoises and of course visit with Santa for that special photo opp. Bring a card for the animals and Santa’s helpers will make sure it gets hand-delivered to them! Free with admission.

Hurray for Hanukkah!!!
Sunday December 19th
1-3pm
Garden State Discovery Museum
Cherry Hill, NJ

Come out to the Garden State Discovery Museum on Sunday December 19th from 1-3pm and listen to Hanukkah stories, create holiday snacks, and enjoy make and take crafts with Rosie Hymerling. Plus enjoy a sing along with Janet Sclaroff at 3pm. Free with museum admission $10.95 for ages 12 months and up.

Christmas on Chestnut – Philadelphia’s Nativity
Saturday December 17th
2-8pm
Presented by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Philadelphia, PA

On Saturday December 17th from 2-8pm take the whole family to Philadelphia’s Nativity – Christmas on Chesnut to enjoy live Christmas Caroling, a live manger scene, musical performances, a nativity movie, free cookies and hot chocolate. Free.

Hanukkah Music and Crafts at Wheaton Arts
Sunday December 18th
2pm
Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center
Millville, NJ

The Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center hosts a family fun Hanukkah program featuring Hanukkah songs and Hanukkah crafts this Sunday December 18th at 2pm. $9-$10, ages 17 and younger free.

The Procrastinator's Christmas Cookie Roundup

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:17:00 +0000

I know you're all probably done your Christmas cookie baking by now being the Uber Marthas that you all are but if you're anything like me (and I do hope for your sake you're not) you might not even have started baking yet. Maybe you just realized that you have only one stick of butter and no eggs and your flour is older than dirt. Maybe you just ran out to the store today to stock up on baking supplies on the off chance that you'll get to bake this weekend or next (heck, Christmas isn't until Sunday right - plenty of time!). And if that's the case and you need some inspiration, here's our Procrastinator's Christmas Cookie Roundup for this season of "oh go ahead and have another..." Enjoy!

Rudolph Sugar Cookies
(via Randomosityblog.com)

(photo courtesy Randomosityblog)

Ingredients
1 (16.5-oz.) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
36 pretzel twists
36 semisweet chocolate mini morsels
18 red cinnamon candies

Preparation
1. Freeze dough 15 minutes.
2. Roll dough to a 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut dough with a 3-inch round cutter, and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Using thumb and forefinger, pinch opposite sides of each slice about two-thirds of the way down to shape face.
3. Break curved sides away from center of each pretzel twist to form antlers. Press bottom of 1 set of antlers on each side at top of each reindeer face.
4. Bake at 350° according to package directions or until lightly browned. Remove from oven; press in 2 chocolate mini morsels for eyes and 1 red cinnamon candy for nose. Let cool 1 minute on baking sheets. Remove to wire racks; cool 20 minutes or until completely cool.

Variation
Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies: Omit pretzels, chocolate mini morsels, and cinnamon candies. Freeze dough 15 minutes. Roll dough to a 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface, and cut with a 3-inch Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° according to package directions or until lightly browned. Remove from oven, and cool as directed. Frost tops of cookies with ready-to-spread vanilla frosting, and sprinkle with red and green colored sugars and sprinkles.

phillyfun4kids notes
Made these today with DD and they were so super easy and required no mixing or fresh ingredients whatsoever. Couldn't find red hots at the grocery store, so bought several bags of m&ms and was going to use the red ones for the noses. Ended up using red Easter cookie decorations which worked fine, too. My reindeer heads didn't come out "quite" like the picture above - probably because I couldn't have been bothered with freezing the store bought sugar cookie dough for a whole eternal 15 minutes when DD kept yelling "Can we bake cookies NOWWW?" I'm sure you will follow steps 1 and 2 and yours will come out *much* better.

Gino's Vinegar Cookies
(Adapted from All Recipes)

Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
1 teaspoon baking soda
fine sugar sprinkles

Preparation
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (170 degrees C).
Cream butter or margarine and sugar. Add other ingredients. Drop by teaspoon on lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 18-20 minutes. Sprinkle some fine sugar sprinkles on top after they come out of the oven. Heaven...

phillyfun4kids notes
My friend started bringing these Vinegar Cookies into the office a long time ago. Her dad Gino made them every year and oh my were they delicious. Crazy thing is... they really do have vinegar in them! And, look how stinking simple this recipe is. Like, even *I* can make these and they come out great.

Jam Thumbprints
(via Cooks.Com)

Ingredients
2/3 c. butter
1/3 c. sugar
2 eggs, separated
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. sifted flour
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. strawberry jam

Preparation
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks, vanilla, salt. Beat. Gradually add flour. Shape into 3/4 inch balls. Place 1 inches apart on greased sheet. Moisten thumb with water and gently press in middle; add 1/4 teaspoon jam. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Makes 3 dozen.

phillyfun4kids notesI'm going back old school here. These were the cookies that I remember most making with my mother. I always feel a need to make them every year. Some years I haven't been able to but I'm always a little bummed when we don't get to make them because they just make me think of Christmases of my youth. I sometimes use other types of jam like apricot preserves or even blackberry. They are always yummy (to me at least) no matter what jam filling is used. Tribute, Mom!!

Christmas Tree Brownies
(via Betty Crocker.Com)

(photo courtesy Betty Crocker)

Ingredients
1 box (1 lb 2.4 oz) brownie mix (and ingredients called for in your mix of choice)
2 or 3 drops green food color
2/3 cups vanilla frosting (from 16 oz container)
Decorating Decors red and green candy sprinkles or miniature candy-coated chocolate baking bits
Miniature candy canes (2 inch), unwrapped

Preparation
Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Line 9-inch square pan with foil so foil extends about 2 inches over sides of pan. Grease bottom only of foil with cooking spray or shortening. Make and bake brownie mix as directed on box. Cool completely, about 1 1/2 hours. Remove brownie from pan by lifting foil; peel foil away. To cut brownie into triangles, cut into 3 rows. Cut each row into 5 triangles, see diagram. Save smaller pieces for snacking. Stir food color into frosting. Spoon frosting into small resealable food-storage plastic bag; partially seal bag. Cut off tiny bottom corner of bag. Squeeze bag to pipe frosting over brownies. Sprinkle with decors. Break off curved end of candy cane; insert straight piece into bottoms of triangles to make tree trunks.

phillyfun4kids notes: Ok so true story... yesterday was my DD's christmas pageant at school. She and all the other 3.5 year olds did their sweet songs and holiday performances of falling snowflakes and prancing reindeer. Then less than 10 minutes later it was over and we all rushed over to the treats tables where all the moms had sent in cookies or brownies. I, myself, had sent in brownies which DD and I were more than happy to make together. They're weren't real fancy but they were chocolate and I fulfilled my duty of sending in a sweet treat. Well, lo and behold - look what another overachiever mom sent it - these crazy ass jazzed up holiday brownies with candy cane trunks and icing and sprinkles. If they weren't so adorable (and yummy) I would have been really pissed at her. ;)

Double Chocolate Chunk Cookies
(Courtesy of Martha Stewart.Com)

Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 ounces good-quality milk chocolate, 4 ounces coarsely chopped, 4 ounces cut into 1/4-inch chunks
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preparation
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside. Melt coarsely chopped chocolate with the butter in a small heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water.
Transfer chocolate mixture to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; mix on medium speed until combined. Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in flour mixture. Fold in chocolate chunks.
Scoop batter using a 1 1/2-inch ice cream scoop; place 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake until cookies are flat and surfaces begin to crack, about 15 minutes. Transfer on parchment to wire racks. Let cool 5 minutes. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

phillyfun4kids notes
A friend brought these for us during a visit one year and they were gobbled up by everyone. I made them for a holiday cookie swap party that year and everyone gobbled them up there too. Not much more to say besides a perfect cookie for a chocoholic!

Michael's Mom's Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies
(courtesy of Michael's Mom!)

(photo courtesy Morgan's Moore)

Ingredients
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teasoon salt
1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips (2 cups)

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 375.
2. Mix sugars, butter, vanilla, and egg in large bowl. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt (dough will be stiff). Stir in chocolate chips. Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.
3. Bake 8-10 minutes until light brown (centers will be soft). Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet. Cool on wire rack.

phillyfun4kids notes
These cookies were brought in to the aforementioned preschool post-performance holiday party by my daughter's classmate's mom. She had talked about her whole wheat chocolcate chip cookies but I didn't think they could be THIS good AND good for you, too!

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:45:00 +0000

The December holiday fun continues this weekend with everything from Dickens to Reindeer Games and everything in between. Don’t miss the holiday fun for all this weekend!

A Christmas Carol
Saturday December 10th
11am
Walnut Street Theater
Philadelphia, PA

Families will enjoy this hour-long kid-friendly adaptation of the classic Dickens’ tale, A Christmas Carol, at the Walnut Street Theater this Saturday December 10th at 11am. Tickets run $10-$15.

Narberth Dickens Festival
Saturday December 10th
12 Noon - 4pm
Downtown Narberth
Forrest & Haverford Ave
Narberth, PA

This free family friendly Dickens Festival will take place in downtown Narberth on Saturday December 10th from 12 noon – 4pm and sees the borough of Narberth transformed into 1840s London as Ebeneezer Scrooge and all the characters from Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol roam the streets for an afternoon of holiday fun. This free event for all ages features a scavenger hunt for the kids as well as crafts, music, food, ice sculpting, horse and carriage rides, Victorian carolers, a free showing of A Muppet Christmas Carol, entertainment and more.

Winnie-the-Pooh
Saturday December 10th at 2pm
Sunday December 11th at 1pm
McShain Performing Arts Center
Rosemont, PA

Take the kids to see this beloved children’s classic Winnie the Pooh come to life on stage at the McShain Performing Arts Center in Rosemont this weekend. Shows run Friday December 9th at 7:30pm, Saturday December 10th at 2pm, and Sunday December 11th at 1pm. Tickets range from $9-$18.

Santa Days
Saturday Dec. 10th and Sunday Dec. 11th
10am - 3pm
The Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia, PA  

Enjoy the holidays like never before at Santa Days at the Philadelphia Zoo running Satruday and Sunday December 10th and 11th from 10am – 3pm. Watch the animals “open presents”, sing Christmas Carols to the animals, join the Zoo Holiday Parade, watch Santa as he feeds the penguins, polar bears and tortises and of course visit with Santa for that special photo opp. Bring a card for the animals and Santa’s helpers will make sure it gets hand-delivered to them! Free with Zoo admission.

Santa at The Bellevue
Saturday December 10th
12 Noon - 2pm
200 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA
215.509.7923 x304

Visit with Santa this Saturday December 10th from 12 – 2pm at The Bellvue. Plus enjoy free pictures with Santa and The Sugar Plum Fairy, a make and take craft and more. And be sure to view the historical “Santa Throughout The Ages Display” at The Bellvue Lobby. Reserve your VIP photo shoot session by emailing mkda@mkdandassociates.com. Free.

Afternoon Tea
Saturday December 10th
3-4:30pm
Joseph Anthony
Glen Mills, PA
610.459.4663 ext 127

It’s a lovely time for tea for two this Saturday December 10th from 3 - 4:30pm at Joseph Anthony in Glenn Mills, PA. Treat you and a your little one to an afternoon of fun including a History of the Afternoon Tea, How to Hold a Teacup, Finger Sandwich Etiquette and General Social Skills. Menu to include finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweets and tea or lemonade. $100 includes one adult and one child. Includes a visit with Santa and free gift bag, too! RSVP to Nicole at 610/459/4663 ext 127.

Reindeer Guide for Kids at Norristown Farm Park
Sunday December 11th
2pm
Norristown Farm Park
Barley Sheaf Dr./North Wales Rd. & Germantown Pike
E. Norriton, PA

Kids will enjoy some time up and close and personal with Santa’s special reindeer friends at the Norristown Farm Park on Sunday December 11th starting at 2pm. Kids can listen to a reindeer themed original story, make a reindeer craft, find reindeer food and even play reindeer games! Geared for ages 3 and up with an adult. $4 per child.

8th Annual Latkepalooza and Holiday Bazaar
Sunday December 11th
2-4pm
Gershman Y
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this 8th Annual Latkepalooza taking place on Sunday December 11th at the Gershman Y from 2-4pm. Get to try gourmet latkes from some of the best chefs in Philly. Plus entertainment from The West Philly Orchestra, a kids concert with Music Monkey Jungle and much more! Tickets $15 for adults and $5 for kids.

Santa Days at The Philadelphia Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:27:00 +0000

Experience the holidays like never before as the Philadelphia Zoo invites guests to spend two weekends with Santa and their favorite animals. Don’t miss Santa Days on Saturday & Sunday December 10th-11th and December 17th& 18th. Visit with Santa, watch orangutans and tigers open presents, join the Zoo Holiday Parade, sing Christmas carols to the animals and watch as Santa feeds, penguins, polar bears and tortoises! Santa Days are free with Zoo admission. Bring a holiday card to your favorite animal, and Santa’s helpers will make sure it gets hand-delivered that day!

Santa Days Schedule:
9:45am Animals ‘opening’ presents
§ Orangutans – 10th & 17th
§ Tigers – 11th & 18th
10:00am – 11:00am Meet Santa in the Treehouse
11:00am – 11:15am Zoo Parade with Santa from the Treehouse to feed the polar bears a treat
11:30am Caroling to the animals in PECO Primate Reserve
12:00pm – 1:00pm Meet Santa in the Treehouse
1:00pm – 1:15pm Zoo parade with Santa from the Treehouse to feed the tortoises a treat
1:30pm Caroling to animals in Big Cats Falls
2:00pm – 3:00pm Meet Santa in Treehouse
3:00 pm– 3:15pm Zoo parade with Santa from the Treehouse to feed the penguins a treat
3:30pm Caroling to the animals in the Rare Animal Conservation Center

About The Philadelphia Zoo:
America's first zoo and one of the region's foremost conservation organizations, the Philadelphia Zoo is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. The Zoo, fulfilling its mission of conservation, science, education and recreation, supports and engages in conservation efforts to protect endangered species around the world. The Philadelphia region’s leading family destination, the Zoo welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors last year. The Philadelphia Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information on the Philadelphia Zoo, as well as to purchase and print tickets online, visit us at www.philadelphiazoo.org. The Philadelphia Zoo is a non-smoking facility.

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:43:00 +0000

December is here and the countdown to Christmas has officially begun! Get out and enjoy some merry making and kick of your December with one of these great festive weekend phillyfun picks.

We Sing Shabbat at Temple Sholom – Broomall
Saturday December 3rd
10-11am
Temple Sholom
Broomall, PA

Families will delight in sharing in the celebration of this joyous and interactive Shabbat service for preschoolers and their families at the Temple Sholom on Saturday December 3rd from 10-11am featuring songs, prayers, stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.

Kids Matinee at Bryn Mawr Film Institute
Saturday December 3rd
11am
Bryn Mawr, PA

Bring the whole family out for this heartwarming classical musical, White Christmas at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute on Saturday December 3rd at 11am. $4-$5 per person.

Holidays Around the World Exhibit & Crafts
Saturday and Sunday December 3rd and 4th
Color Book Gallery
Philadelphia, PA

This unique weeklong exhibit at Color Book Gallery features a look at holidays celebrated around the world focusing on different countries throughout the week. On Saturday December 3rd, children can also participate in a make and take craft at 1pm. Free.

Philadelphia Museum of Art Sunday Family Programs & Pay What You Wish
Sunday December 4th
10am - 5pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia, PA

The first Sunday of the month means Pay What You Wish Admission at the Philadelphia Museum of Art this Sunday December 4th from 10am – 5pm. And take part in the museum’s Family & Children’s programs offering a program around the Dutch Treat exhibit from 10am – 3pm in the Family Studio. What a great and affordable way to take the whole family to the art museum without worrying that you paid full admission if you have to leave early for naps or one of your little one melts down in one of the exhibits. Free. Donations welcomed.

World Culture Day Peace Around the World
Sunday December 4th
1-4pm
Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology hosts its 16th annual Peace Around the World celebration on Sunday December 4th from 1-4pm. Visitors receive a “passport to cultures” with an itinery to visit various museum galleries where International Classroom speakers share holiday traditions from their home countries. This much anticipated celebration will feature music, dancing, exotic face painting, balloon art, family crafts, and free treats for kids. Free with museum admission. $10 general admission. $6 for students and children ages 6-17. Visitors who bring a new unwrapped toy donation get a buy one get one free admission.

South Street Winter Wonderland
Sunday December 4th
4-7pm
Philadelphia, PA

This Sunday December 4th from 4-7pm the South Street Headhouse District will be transformed into an urban winter wonderland with carolers, horse and buggy rides, face painting, and balloon art all leading up to Santa’s arrival and the lighting of the South Street Holiday tree. Free.

And don't forget to check out our Best Visits with Santa picks if you're looking to have a visit with the Big Guy this weekend!

Top Breakfasts with Santa

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:29:00 +0000

This time of year kids have a unique opportunity to have breakfast with everyone’s favorite jolly guy – Santa!! Take the kiddos for a once in a lifetime chance to have pancakes and a memorable photo opp with Santa at one of these select breakfast with Santa events in the Philadelphia areas -- and yes Santa CAN be at all these places at once!!

Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Busters
Philadelphia, PA

Help a special cause this holiday by participating in this Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster’s on Columbus Blvd in Philadelphia on Sunday December 4th from 9am – 11:30am. Breakfast includes buffet, unlimited non alcoholic beverages, unlimted video game play, family entertainment, parking, gift for child and a framed photo with Santa but you must purchase tickets before Dec. 2nd by calling 215-282-2862 or emailinghilary_regojo@daveandbusters.com. No walk-ins. No refunds. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to the Kisses for Kyle Foundation (http://www.kissesforkyle.org/) helping families battle childhood cancer.

Breakfast with Santa on the Battleship New Jersey
Battleship New Jersey
Camden, NJ

Kids will delight in this unique chance to have breakfast with Santa aboard a real battleship on Saturday December 3rd from 9-11am at the Battleship New Jersey this season. Enjoy a hot breakfast chow-line style at the Crew’s Galley, meet Santa and local mascots, win prizes and enjoy a self-guided tour of the battleship. $20 for adults. $16 for children 12 and under. Seating is limited. Make your reservations today by calling 866-877-6262 ext. 107.

Breakfast with Santa at Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square, PA

There might not be a more beautiful location to have your kids enjoy a breakfast with Santa than the stunning Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA this December. Breakfast with Santa runs Dec. 10th – 11th and 17th and 18th with two seatings at 8:30am and 10:30am. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet provided by the chefs of the Terrace Restaurant. Children can speak with Santa, share their holiday wish lists and of course take photos – parents, don’t forget those cameras! Cost is $40 for ages 12 and up (members $32); $22 for ages 5-11 (members $18); $5 for ages 1-4. Free for children 12 months and under. Member discount. Prices include Gardens admission and breakfast.

Breakfast with Santa at Winterthur
Winterthur
Winterthur, DE

Enjoy a delicious buffet Breakfast with Santa at Winterthur, the childhood home of horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont turned into a public garden and museum, in Delaware running Dec. 10th and Dec. 17th with two seatings at 9am and 9:30am. Kids can also enjoy ornament making and a performance of holiday music by children’s entertainer, Silly Joe, back again this year by popular demand! Tickets $18 for children ages 1-12. $28 for adults (Members $21).

Breakfast with Scuba Santa
Adventure Aquarium
Camden, NJ

Families should not miss this extraordinary Breakfast with Scuba Santa at the Adventure Aquarium this holiday season with multiple character appearances featuring the one and only Scuba Santa as he dives inside the 550,000 gallon Shark Realm exhibit. Breakfast with Scuba Santa runs December 3rd and 4th and 10th and 11th from 8:30-10:30am and includes breakfast hosted in the Aquarium’s Currents Ballroom with unique views of the Shark Realm Exhibit, arts and craft activities, Free Parking, and a photo opportunity with Scuba Santa and free photo plus admission to the Aquarium. Tickets $33.95 for adults and $29.95 for children.

Breakfast with Santa at The Crayola Factory
The Crayola Factory
Easton, PA

On Saturdays in December through Dec. 17th take the family to The Crayola Factory in Easton PA for a great Breakfast with Santa and the Crayola characters including a hot breakfast, holiday fun, a free Crayola gift and of course unique photo opportunities. Cost $20 per person. Reservations required.

Brunch with Santa
Elmwood Park Zoo
Norristown, PA

It’s Brunch with Santa this season at Norristown’s Elmwood Park Zoo running December 11th, 17th and 18th with three seatings at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2pm. Brunch features a full brunch buffet, live reindeer, elf entertainment and of course a photo shoot with Santa! Adults $25. Children $15. Members get 10% off. Seating is limited so be sure to reserve early.

Breakfast with Santa at Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock Cafe
Philadelphia, PA

Breakfast with Santa at Philly’s own Hard Rock Café features family style seating, a full hot and cold buffet, goody bag, a balloon artist and a visit from Santa to every table, plus a special reading of “twas the Night Before Christmas by the tree for unique photo taking opportunities. Bring your cameras! Also features Toys for Tots drop-off. Breakfast runs Dec. 10th and 11th and 17th and 18th at 8:30am. Cost is $18 for adults, $15 for children 3-12, and free for 2 and under. Call the Cafe for more info and to book your reservations @ 215-238-0639. Limited seating is available.

Weekend phillyfun picks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:55:00 +0000

As you recover from your tryptophan coma and your black friday shopping and start to think about the rest of the weekend, here are our top Thanksgiving Weekend Philly Fun Picks to enjoy the extra days home with the family:

Macy’s Christmas Light Show
Daily through New Years Day
1300 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA

In our family, it’s not the holidays unless we get down to Macy’s to enjoy the Christmas light show spectacular. A holiday tradition for 50 years, we went when it was Wanamaker’s but now Macy’s does it justice with a beautiful light show and sound display followed by organ concerts. After the show, head up to the 3rd floor for the Dickens Christmas Village experience to see scenes from A Christmas Carol and allow children the opportunity to visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your stamped letter in an envelope marked for the North Pole for your child to mail in Macy’s. For each letter sent to the Big Guy, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make a Wish Foundation. Light show runs hourly 10am – 8pm starting November 25th through New Years Eve day. Dickens Village open 10am-7pm Nov. 26th – New Years Eve day.

(photo credit: J. HOLDER FOR GPTMC)
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Through Christmas
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is shown hourly from Thanksgiving through Christmas on The Comcast Experience video wall, the world’s largest 4 mm LED display, in the lobby. The 15 minute show runs from 10AM to 8PM (except at 5PM M-F to avoid the business day exodus) and new this year includes scenes from the Nutcracker performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet , a magical sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside, and other holiday sights and sounds set to orchestral and choral holiday music. Free.

Christmas Village
Through Christmas Eve
Love Park
Philadelphia, PA

Starting November 24th and running through Christmas Eve, Philly’s Love Park is home to its own Christkindl style market at Christmas Village complete with crafts, food and fun for the whole family. New this year is a carousel for children to ride as well. Children can visit Santa’s house to have a seat on his lap and tell the big guy their Christmas wishes. There are also plenty of authentic German foods including bratwursts, gingerbread, waffles, crepes, potato salad and traditional German sweets like Lebkuchen and soft gingerbread biscuits for all. Runs from 11am-8pm daily from through Christmas Eve. Free.

North Pole Express
Through New Year's Eve
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
New Hope, PA

All about this special North Pole Express holiday train at the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad destined for the North Pole! Ride the rails with Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday figures including local musicians playing holiday music and leading caroling for all. Families can sip cocoa and enjoy cookies as children get to have individual visits with Santa who present each child with a small gift. Professional photo packages also available. North Pole Express runs weekends through New Year’s Eve with hourly excursions starting at 12 Noon and a final depart time of 6:45pm. Adults $37, Children ages 2-11 $35.00, children aged 2 and under $10.00. First class updates also available. See website for full ticketing details.

Santa’s Paradise Express
Through Dec. 18th
Strasburg Rail Road
Strasburg, PA

If it’s more of a day trip you’re after, children can meet Santa and his helpers while taking a ride on a 45 minute vintage steam train ride to Paradise, PA to kick-off the holidays at beautiful Strasburg Rail Road. After the train ride, children can participate in a story reading of holiday classics. Children ages 3-11 receive a gift from Santa as well! Santa’s Holiday Express starts this weekend Friday Nov. 25th – Sunday Nov. 27th and runs weekends through Dec. 18th. Ticket prices vary from $3-$30. Please see website for full ticket details.

The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express
Friday Nov. 25 through Sunday Nov. 27
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

The dinosaurs are coming to Oaks this Friday November 25th through Sunday 27th at The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express. Bring the whole family out to see and touch the Burning Tree Mastodon and dozens of other life like replica dinosaurs. Plus kids will enjoy moon bounces, a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games and other great family fun for all ages. Get your discount tickets earl online. Tickets run $3 - $9. Family four packs $30.

A Longwood Gardens Christmas
November 24, 2011 - January 8, 2012
Kennett Square, PA

Beautiful Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is transformed into a Gingerbread Fantasy this holiday season with towering trees adorned with gingerbread garland and cookie ornaments. Children will delight in the Gingerbread Express train as it routes its way through a candy-filled music room. And, enjoy half a million lights on display in the most beautiful gardens in the area with lit trees, dancing fountains, and beautiful plants. Daily and evening performances add to the holiday magic. Admission to the Christmas display is by Timed Admission Ticket, with tickets purchased in advance for a specific date and time. Buy before you arrive! $8-$25.pia

Thanksgiving Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th - Sunday 27th
National Constitution Center
Philadelphia, PA

The National Constitution Center hosts a Thanksgiving Celebration this weekend where families can enjoy a History of Thanksgiving program to learn about the true history of Thanksgiving over the years and participate in seasonal make and take crafts. Thanksgiving Celebration runs Friday Nov. 25- Sunday Nov. 27th from 10am -3 pm. Free with paid admission $8-$12. Ages 3 and younger free. Veterans free on Black Friday.

A Brandywine Christmas – Chadds Ford
Through Jan. 8, 2012
Brandywine River Museum
Chadds Ford, PA

The Brandywine River Museum celebrates this year’s holiday season at A Brandywine Christmas with their extensive 0-gauge model railroad plus antique dolls from the private collection of Ann Wyeth McCoy, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse and beautifully decorated trees with natural ornaments. New for 2011 is a display featuring Ann Wyeth McCoy’s adult-sized dollhouse.

Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012
Camden, NJ

Starting on Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012 Camden’s Adventure Aquarium is transformed into a magical undersea holiday wonderland with larger than life holiday decorations, twinkly lights, tress and falling snow. Children are thrilled to see “Scuba Santa” swimming with the sea creatures and waving to them from inside the Ocean Realm exhibit. Adventure Aquarium also boasts the best Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Show you’ll ever see with live appearances from the Bumble and live dance party and more. Visit before Christmas and get a free 4x6 photo of the kids with Rudolph, the Bumble and friends. Shows runs daily through Jan. 12t 2012. Free with paid admission $17.95-$21.95.

Happy Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer O.) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:47:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving Friends! May your turkeys be moist, your pies be plentiful and your families be together, happy and healthy today. I am grateful for each and every one of you!!

As you recover from your tryptophan coma and start to think about the rest of your weekend here are our Thanksgiving Weekend Philly Fun Picks:

Macy’s Christmas Light Show
Daily through New Years Day
1300 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA

In our family, it’s not the holidays unless we get down to Macy’s to enjoy the Christmas light show spectacular. A holiday tradition for 50 years, we went when it was Wanamaker’s but now Macy’s does it justice with a beautiful light show and sound display followed by organ concerts. After the show, head up to the 3rd floor for the Dickens Christmas Village experience to see scenes from A Christmas Carol and allow children the opportunity to visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your stamped letter in an envelope marked for the North Pole for your child to mail in Macy’s. For each letter sent to the Big Guy, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make a Wish Foundation. Light show runs hourly 10am – 8pm starting November 25th through New Years Eve day. Dickens Village open 10am-7pm Nov. 26th – New Years Eve day.

(photo credit: J. HOLDER FOR GPTMC)
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Through Christmas
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is shown hourly from Thanksgiving through Christmas on The Comcast Experience video wall, the world’s largest 4 mm LED display, in the lobby. The 15 minute show runs from 10AM to 8PM (except at 5PM M-F to avoid the business day exodus) and new this year includes scenes from the Nutcracker performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet , a magical sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside, and other holiday sights and sounds set to orchestral and choral holiday music. Free.

Christmas Village
Through Christmas Eve
Love Park
Philadelphia, PA

Starting November 24th and running through Christmas Eve, Philly’s Love Park is home to its own Christkindl style market at Christmas Village complete with crafts, food and fun for the whole family. New this year is a carousel for children to ride as well. Children can visit Santa’s house to have a seat on his lap and tell the big guy their Christmas wishes. There are also plenty of authentic German foods including bratwursts, gingerbread, waffles, crepes, potato salad and traditional German sweets like Lebkuchen and soft gingerbread biscuits for all. Runs from 11am-8pm daily from through Christmas Eve. Free.

North Pole Express
Through New Year's Eve
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
New Hope, PA

All about this special North Pole Express holiday train at the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad destined for the North Pole! Ride the rails with Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday figures including local musicians playing holiday music and leading caroling for all. Families can sip cocoa and enjoy cookies as children get to have individual visits with Santa who present each child with a small gift. Professional photo packages also available. North Pole Express runs weekends through New Year’s Eve with hourly excursions starting at 12 Noon and a final depart time of 6:45pm. Adults $37, Children ages 2-11 $35.00, children aged 2 and under $10.00. First class updates also available. See website for full ticketing details.

Santa’s Paradise Express
Through Dec. 18th
Strasburg Rail Road
Strasburg, PA

If it’s more of a day trip you’re after, children can meet Santa and his helpers while taking a ride on a 45 minute vintage steam train ride to Paradise, PA to kick-off the holidays at beautiful Strasburg Rail Road. After the train ride, children can participate in a story reading of holiday classics. Children ages 3-11 receive a gift from Santa as well! Santa’s Holiday Express starts this weekend Friday Nov. 25th – Sunday Nov. 27th and runs weekends through Dec. 18th. Ticket prices vary from $3-$30. Please see website for full ticket details.

The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express
Friday Nov. 25 through Sunday Nov. 27
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

The dinosaurs are coming to Oaks this Friday November 25th through Sunday 27th at The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express. Bring the whole family out to see and touch the Burning Tree Mastodon and dozens of other life like replica dinosaurs. Plus kids will enjoy moon bounces, a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games and other great family fun for all ages. Get your discount tickets earl online. Tickets run $3 - $9. Family four packs $30.

A Longwood Gardens Christmas
November 24, 2011 - January 8, 2012
Kennett Square, PA

Beautiful Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is transformed into a Gingerbread Fantasy this holiday season with towering trees adorned with gingerbread garland and cookie ornaments. Children will delight in the Gingerbread Express train as it routes its way through a candy-filled music room. And, enjoy half a million lights on display in the most beautiful gardens in the area with lit trees, dancing fountains, and beautiful plants. Daily and evening performances add to the holiday magic. Admission to the Christmas display is by Timed Admission Ticket, with tickets purchased in advance for a specific date and time. Buy before you arrive! $8-$25.pia

Thanksgiving Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th - Sunday 27th
National Constitution Center
Philadelphia, PA

The National Constitution Center hosts a Thanksgiving Celebration this weekend where families can enjoy a History of Thanksgiving program to learn about the true history of Thanksgiving over the years and participate in seasonal make and take crafts. Thanksgiving Celebration runs Friday Nov. 25- Sunday Nov. 27th from 10am -3 pm. Free with paid admission $8-$12. Ages 3 and younger free. Veterans free on Black Friday.

A Brandywine Christmas – Chadds Ford
Through Jan. 8, 2012
Brandywine River Museum
Chadds Ford, PA

The Brandywine River Museum celebrates this year’s holiday season at A Brandywine Christmas with their extensive 0-gauge model railroad plus antique dolls from the private collection of Ann Wyeth McCoy, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse and beautifully decorated trees with natural ornaments. New for 2011 is a display featuring Ann Wyeth McCoy’s adult-sized dollhouse.

Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012
Camden, NJ

Starting on Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012 Camden’s Adventure Aquarium is transformed into a magical undersea holiday wonderland with larger than life holiday decorations, twinkly lights, tress and falling snow. Children are thrilled to see “Scuba Santa” swimming with the sea creatures and waving to them from inside the Ocean Realm exhibit. Adventure Aquarium also boasts the best Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Show you’ll ever see with live appearances from the Bumble and live dance party and more. Visit before Christmas and get a free 4x6 photo of the kids with Rudolph, the Bumble and friends. Shows runs daily through Jan. 12t 2012. Free with paid admission $17.95-$21.95.