Mark Your Calendar- 11/26 Holiday Parade, Downtown Seattle

Sun, clouds, wind or rain will not keep the confetti snow away....

The 24th annual Holiday Parade sponsored by the Seattle Times is planned for the morning after Thanksgiving in downtown Seattle. A tradition among many locals and other suburbanites who travel downtown for the event to see Santa delivered to Macy's.

This year they are planning on 20 balloon float and inflatables, 500 costumed characters, local marching bands and many other special treats in store for all parade goers.

Parade Details:
Date - 11/27, Friday
Time - begins at 8:45am
Parade Route - BEGINS: at 7th and Pine, to 5th Ave, to University Street, to 4th Ave
Parade Route - ENDS: at Downtown Macy's.

Later that evening:
Shop all day and stay downtown to watch the Macy’s Star Lighting & Fireworks Show.
Time: 5pm
Location: 4th and Pine, corner

If you can't make it, make sure you look for the Holiday Star when shopping downtown. It is a sight to see with 3600 bulbs and over 160 inches tall.

Santa Breakfast Hotline - Open and taking reservations

The traditional Santa Breakfast hosted by the Tim and Dan Watts Guild has their hotline open and is taking reservations.

This is a once a year family event that starts the season off on a fun note and is special for both child and parent. Go to their event link on the Pacific Northwest Arthritis Foundation webpage for more information on the event.

Event Summary Details:
Dates: Dec 13, 19 & 20
Times: 9:30am to 11:00am
Location: Sheraton Seattle Hotel, 6th Ave downtown

Santa Breakfast Hotline: 206-547-1290 from 10am to 3pm/Mon to Fri
(Hotline is only available until 12/10 or while seats are available.)

Curious George at the Seattle Children's Museum

Are your little ones curious like mine? Or jump off the couch like monkeys and climb all over everything? We love Curious George at our house, he is fun and lovable and also curiously mischievous.

The Seattle Children's Museum is hosting a traveling Curious George exhibit from January 24th through May 10th. Activities include books and a preview of a new cartoon. There are also educational exhibits including math and science themed activities.

For more information, contact the Seattle Children's Museum at 206-441-1768 or www.thechildrensmuseum.org.

For members of Imagine (Everett Children's Museum), there should be a coupon with your annual membership packet that will give you a discount at the Seattle Children's Museum.

35th Annual Model Railroad Show (IMAX) 1/17 to 1/19

Calling all Thomas the Train and other train enthusiasts. All aboard to the Pacific Science Center on 1/17, 1/18 and 1/19th for the 35th Annual Model Railroad Show. This a show that is on the IMAX big screen. If your little ones have not experienced the magic of the IMAX and have an interest in trains, this might be an outing for you.

If trains are not a big hit in your family, try the Dinosaurs Alive in 3D.

Contact the PSC at 206-443-2001 or go to www.pacificsciencecenter.org.

The Wizard of Oz - at Seattle Children's Theatre until 1/17

Performances of the family favorite The Wizard of Oz is being shown at the Seattle Children's Theatre until January 17th.

For more information, contact Seattle Children's Theatre at Seattle Center at 206-441-3322 or online at www.sct.org.

Recommended ages: 6 and up

Holiday Ships and Santa Cruises

I have heard about 2 local holiday events that are "water" based for people who are looking for something like this to experience this holiday season.

In Everett, the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade is on December 12 and 13th from 5pm - 8pm. This parade features boats of all sizes that are beautifully decorated and in our backyard. For more information on an exact location, call 425-259-8178.

Downtown, Argosy Cruises offers an array of holiday sails in the month of December until the 23rd. Cruises featured are the Santa Brunches and family dinner cruises. A complete list can be located at http://www.argosycruises.com/themecruises/xmasSchedule.cfm#schedule. This list also provides information on the choirs that will be caroling during that sail. Reduced priced sales are listed as value nights and can provide a savings if you are flexible on when you can go.

Check it out and set sail this holiday season.

Santa Breakfasts - Downtown

Here is information on the traditional Santa Breakfast in downtown Seattle. I have heard from several friends that this is a tradition to add to every families event list. Many of them have been attending this breakfast since they were kids and now their children are going every year.

Description: A holiday brunch with a special guest

Dates: December 13, 14, 20 and 21

Times: 9:30am and 11:00am

Location: Sheraton Hotel and Towers, 1400 6th Avenue, downtown Seattle

Contact: 206-547-1290 is the Santa hotline to make reservations

The proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation Pac NW Chapter and is presented by Proliance Surgeons. (Our ENT surgeon that has done 2 of Katelyn's ear tube surgeries is with Proliance Surgeons in Bellevue - a great group of surgeons.)

Macy's Santa Holiday Show

There is a new cowboy in town, Grumpy Gus and he is here to take the fun out of Christmas for everyone. He learns about the Spirit of Christmas in this fun performance at the Downtown Macy's. This is a new production that Macy's is offering in conjunction with Caberet Productions. What a fun, holiday event to add to a day downtown...

Show times:
December 13, 14, 15, and 21 at 11:15am

Location:
Macy's, Downtown Seattle
Third Floor, Stewart Street Room

Ticket Prices:
Children 11 and under $10
12 and older $12

Each ticket receives a Macy gift card for $5 and and kids receive an additional free gift.

Call 206-506-4-Fun for tickets.

Kids Eat Free - Locally!

I saw an article on another website that I write for called Busy Mommy about a website that tells you where your kids can eat for free. It is called My Kids Eat for Free, easy to remember which is good. Last time we went to the I.H.O.P. on Broadway in Everett, it was Kids Eat For Free on Tuesday. I have added this to the website and here are some other local eateries that are offering Kids Eat Free options. This is also a great website if you are going on a vacation, check in advance and maybe you can save a buck or two when dining out.

Please keep in mind that offers expire so I recommend calling in advance before dining.

I.H.O.P. (new -added 12/8/08)
Evergreen Way, Everett, WA (across from the Fred Meyer)
Kids Eat For Free - EVERDAY from 2pm - 10pm

Las Margaritas
Evergreen Way (across from the Safeway on 41st) in Everett
Kids Eat For Free on Mondays and Tuesdays

I.H.O.P.
4710 Broadway (near the AquaSox Stadium) in Everett
Kids Eat For Free on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
(When I called them to confirm this they said they are trying to have Kids Eat For Free every night of the week. Call to confirm.)

Marie Callender's (South of Northgate Mall)
9538 1st Ave., N.E.
Seattle, WA
206-526-5785
Kids Eat For Free on EVERYDAY of the week. Sunday through Saturday! 12 and under with adult entree purchase.

Ruby's Diner
13706 NE 175th St.
Woodinville, WA
(425) 489-1173
Kids Eat For Free on Tuesday nights. 12 and under with adult entree purchase.

Ruby's Diner (In Alderwood Mall - save money while holiday shopping!)
3000 184th St SW #840
Lynnwood, WA
(425) 778-8729
Kids Eat For Free on Tuesday nights. 12 and under with adult entree purchase.

Ruby's Diner (In Redmond Town Center- save money while holiday shopping!)
16501 NE 74th St.
Redmond, WA
(425) 861-7829
Kids Eat For Free on Tuesday nights. 12 and under with adult entree purchase.

Bon appetite and save some cash for ice cream afterwards!

Trick-or-Treating in Washington

Are you in search of a place to go trick-or-treating this year? Here are some ideas for trick-or-treating outside of your neighborhood.

Trick-or-Treating At Merrill Gardens
Date: 10/31 from 10:45am to 5pm
Location: Merrill Gardens at Mill Creek, 14905 Bothell-Everett Hwy
Description: Come have a fun costume parade and trick or treat at Merrill Gardens! This activity is open to the public and free. Call (425) 338-1580 for more info.

Halloween with the Lights On!
Date: 10/31 from 11am-3pm
Location: Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett, call 425-258-1006 for more info
Description: Visit the museum in costume and fun actitivities. Performances of "The 13 Nights of Halloween" at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Little Pumpkin Party in Mountlake Terrace
Date: 10/31 from 12-2pm
Location: Mountlake Terrace Recreation Pavilion, call 425-776-9173 for more info
Description: Wear your costume and play inside indoor playground. Activities are planned and trick-or-treating will take place.

Snohomish Downtown Merchants Trick or Treat
Date: 10/31 from 4-5pm
Location: Downtown Snohomish, call 360-568-2526 for more info

Safe Halloween at the Country Village in Bothell
Date: 10/31 from 4pm-6pm
Location: Country Village in Bothell
Description: Trick-or-treat at storefronts. Kids under 12. Halloween photos from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Chapters Photography (425-415-1267)

Safe Halloween at Main Street in Bothell
Date: 10/31 from 5pm-7pm
Location: Main Street in downtown Bothell
Description: Trick-or-treat on Main Street. Fish for prizes at the main gazebo.

Treats on Main Street in Mill Creek
Date: 10/31 from 5pm-7pm
Location: Mill Creek Town Center
Description: Merchants of Mill Creek Town Center are open for family friendly trick-or-treating. Trunk or Treat event is a couple blocks south of Central Market.

Edmonds Halloween
Date: 10/31 from 5-7pm
Location: Downtown Edmonds
Description: Dress up for Halloween and area stores stock up on candy to give away.

Everett Mall Trick or Treat
Date: 10/31 from 5-8pm
Location: Everett Mall, Everett
Description: Trick-or-treat at the mall. Bring canned food donation. Age 12 and under.

Trick or Treat at Redmond Town Center
Date: 10/31 from 5-7pmLocation: Redmond Town Center, Redmond
Description: Trick-or-treat safely at Redmond Town Center

HAVE A SAFE AND FUN HALLOWEEN!

Halloween Activities in Washington (Oct 24 – Oct 26)

Are you in search of local Halloween activities this year? Here are some ideas for events that take place the weekend before Halloween.

Goblin Splash at Forest Park Pool
Date: 10/24 from 7pm-8:30pm
Location: Forest Park Pool, Everett (802 E. Mukilteo Blvd)
Description: Bring food for the Volunteers of America Food Bank and toss pumpkins in the pool, play games and win prizes. Costumes are welcomed! Large donations receive free pool admission.

Woodland Park Zoo’s Pumpkin Prowl
Date: October 24, 25 and 26 from 5-8pm
Location: Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle
Description: Trick-or-treat with glowing pumpkins through the zoo. Activities are planned and costumes are encouraged. Tickets can be purchased at zoo or in advance at Bartell Drug locations.

Woodland Park Zoo’s Pumpkin Bash
Date: 10/25 and 10/26 from 10:00am-2:30pm
Location: Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle
Description: Pumpkins in different animal shapes around the zoo. Special treats for the animals to eat – pumpkins are smashed!

Tricks, Treats and Science Feats
Date: 10/25 and 10/26 from 10am-6pm
Location: Pacific Science Center, Seattle
Description: Science-themed Halloween event with giant pumpkin sculpting and a haunted house. Come in costume! Free with admission and all ages welcome. Feel free to wear costume.

Seattle Aquarium and other Waterfront Businesses
Date: 10/26 from 9:30am to 5pm
Location: Seattle Aquarium, Seattle and other waterfront businesses
Description: Trick or treat at Waterfront Businesses. Activities at the Seattle Aquarium include a Halloween party with Recess Monkey Rock Band(1:00 and 3:30pm performances), face painting, Seafair Pirates (11-4pm) and JP Patches (12-1:30pm). and special guest appearances by J.P. Patches and the Seafair Pirates!

Seattle Tacoma International Airport

Are you flying with kids soon? There is an anxiety that comes with taking your little ones on an airplane. Will they behave and will you make it through the dragging flight? I just took my four year old to Montana to see her auntie and we were very early to the airport. We needed to pass some time and were looking for things to do.

Besides the normal tasks of eating, shopping and potty breaks, here are some other things to keep your little one preoccupied before the flight.

Kid's Play Areas - I have always seen little play areas in the concourses that were small outdoor play equipment for kids to climb on. I believe these vary from concourse to concourse. But what I have discovered is the actual PLAY ROOM! There is a play room in between concourse A and B. The Port of Seattle's website lists the room as 1400 square feet and has the conveniences of a large family restroom and a nursing room with rocking chairs. The play area has padded toys for kids to climb on and jump off of.

The Orca - There is a large, stuffed orca that stands upright outside one of the shops. My child loved it and hugged it several times. Great photo ops.

Art Exhibits - There are over 50 pieces of art that are exhibited at SeaTac. There is a list available on the Port of Seattle's website and many of the pieces are there permanently. Walk around and look for art and then talk about it. Many of them are very colorful and some are of northwest animals and scenery.

Watching the Planes - When it is all said and done, it is so exciting to see a plane take off, land and drive around the airport to park. Walk around and look at different types of planes and brands. They all have different colors and to a child, they are intriguing. To see their face start showing the signs of them trying to figure out just how a plane flies and to see how big they are up close.

Travelling with little ones is not easy, but remember that it is a memorable time that you are sharing with your little one. Plus there are sundries available to help you (ibuprofen) and also the infamous cocktail, available in flight and in terminal.

My most preferred travel item: Purel hand sanitizer.

Seattle Aquarium

I was trying to remember the last time I was at the Seattle Aquarium and I am shocked that I think it was over 20 years ago. When I was a child there were three field trips that we went on in elementary school. The options were Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium and the Fun Forest at the Seattle Center.


I had 2 goals this summer on things to do with my kids. The first one was to go to the Woodland Park Zoo and the second was the Seattle Aquarium. Last Thursday, I took the day off of work and we went to the aquarium. It was very exciting for my 4 year old who could not say "a-kware-e-um" but instead called the it the "care bear-ium" and wanted to know when her furry friends would appear.


Here are the ins and outs of going to the aquarium:

Parking - do not park across from the aquarium but go south at least 1 block past the aquarium or possibly 2 blocks. It is okay to walk and you will save $11 for 2 hours. If you park where I am recommending it ends up being $3 for 2 hours, if you park across from the aquarium it is $14 for 2 hours.


Admission - Adults are $15, Children 4 and up are $10, Children 3 and under are free. Advice: If you have an Entertainment Book then remember to use your coupon of "Buy 1 Admission, Get 1 Free".


Best features - The wall sized fish tank when you first walk in, especially when the diver is in the tank talking to everyone. I would also have to say the sea otters, fur seals and seals.


My children's favorites features - looking for and actually finding Nemo and Dori in the fish tanks.


Time - If you look at the parking situation, you can guess that I am recommending 2 hours. Honestly, we were done after 1 hour and 45 minutes and we went back through the aquarium and hit the starfish/sea urchin section 3 times.


Other advice: As with any kid's activity, go early in the day. We arrived at 11:00am, which is much later than I like and the group tours and buses came a little after us. When we walked back through the aquarium to walk it, it became a mad house. So definitely go when it first opens and then you can be done before the large crowds. Remember that I went on a Thursday in August, I did not go during the weekend so it could already be busy at that time.


In summary, a great place to go and the kids will absolutely love it. Is it as great as I remember as a kid? No, but nothing seems quite as magical when you look back as an adult.