Holidays

Charming Seattle Christmas Market Returns for the Holiday Season

Take photos with Santa, ride a double-decker carousel and enjoy the market with kids

2024 Big Gift Giveaway

Enter to win one of 17 awesome prizes for Greater Seattle families

7 Creative Ways to Make Cheap and Easy Holiday Cards

Sending a sweet seasonal family greeting doesn’t have to break the bank

Enchant Christmas Returns to Seattle to Amaze Families

Plan a dazzling night out at a holiday light maze with ice-skating, Santa photos and more

The Best Seattle-Area Holiday Markets

Where to shop for special handmade gifts

The Best Christmas Stocking Stuffers

Say goodbye to plastic garbage and hello to useful treats

Give the Gift of Experience With These Action-Packed Presents

Enough stuff!

‘Tis the Season for Conception

It’s that special time of year for positive pregnancy tests

Festive Seattle-Area Holiday Activities to Make the Season Sparkle

All the best free and budget-friendly things to do with the family for a memorable season

Santa Secrets: Best Santas Around the Sound

Favorite local Santas for your annual holiday photos

Take a Spin! Where to Ice-Skate Around Puget Sound

Skating rinks to get you gliding this winter and beyond

20+ Wacky Turkey Day Activities and Jokes to Liven Up Your Gathering

From silly games to karaoke, we’ve got something to keep everyone entertained all day long

How Seattle-Area Families Can Give Back

Easy ways to donate toys, gifts, toiletries and more this holiday season

6 Tips for Better Holiday Photos From a Professional Photographer

Simple strategies for capturing beautiful family memories

The Best Holiday Treats and Gifts from Trader Joe’s for 2024

From a grown-up Advent calendar for beauty lovers to tiny pies, everybody’s favorite market is going all out this year

U-Cut Christmas Tree Farms for Seattle-Area Families

Where to find and cut your perfect live Christmas tree

29 Totally Unique Gifts for Every Kid on Your List

Mom-curated ideas to create the holiday magic parents need this time of year

Creative Apple Recipes Kids and Grownups Will Love

From savory sandwiches to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with recipes showcasing fall's favorite fruit

Head to the Giving Marketplace for Unique Gifts that Give Back

Come celebrate makers from around the globe

Thanksgiving Dinner Out: Seattle-Area Restaurants for Dine-In or Takeout in 2024

Restaurants serving Turkey Day meals around Seattle, the Eastside and South Sound

24 Fantastic Seattle-Area Performances to See Before 2024 Ends

ParentMap’s annual winter arts guide featuring can’t-miss holiday performances for families

Unique Gifts From Northwest Makers

From little artists to stylish tastemakers, this list has everyone on your list covered

Unmask Your Halloween Parenting Style

Take the quiz to discover your style ... if you dare!

Irresistible Kid-Friendly Snacks and Starters for Thanksgiving

Yummy sides, snacks and starters to keep the kids happy

Diwali: Where to Celebrate Around Seattle and the Eastside

A local mom on Diwali and attending local events with her son

Spooky (But Not Too Scary) Halloween Movies for Kids

Get in the Halloween spirit with festive movies for families

15 Thanksgiving Decorations That Kids Can Make

Celebrate the season with these festive (and fun!) ideas

Tired of Cooking? Here’s Where You Can Buy Your Entire Holiday Meal

Spend less time stressing and more time with the family

Haunted Houses and Scary Attractions for Seattle-Area Families

Wild and mild thrills and chills with kids

14 Halloween Crafts and Activities for Kids

Try these ideas for a spooktacular (and crafty) holiday

Easy Homemade Halloween Treats Your Kids Will Love

Simple recipes for a delicious spooky season

Boo! Best Halloween Events for Seattle-Area Families

Sweet and spooky Halloween fun for 2024

Trendy Halloween Costumes for 2024

From Garfield to Ghostbusters, here’s what trick-or-treaters will be wearing this year

Kids Crafts to Ring in Rosh Hashanah

Slow down and get crafty

Best Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes for Fall Fun

Where to pick the perfect pumpkin and find harvest fun in 2024

Seattle Chocolate Haunted Factory Tour: Get Your Tickets Now

Tickets are on sale now for this experience of frights and delights

​Book Now for Santa Train Rides This Winter

Secure your tickets for The Polar Express Train Ride and other holiday outings

Fireworks Shows and Fourth of July Fests

Independence Day celebrations around Seattle

Juneteenth Events for Seattle-Area Families

Celebrate Juneteenth at family events around Seattle

15 Father’s Day Family Activities Around Seattle

Train ride, car show, berry fest or bike ride?

8 Books for Young Readers That Celebrate Juneteenth

Engaging titles families can explore together on U.S. history and Black freedom

10 Home-Run Father’s Day Gifts From Northwest Makers

From dapper dads to foodie father figures, this list has you covered

Super Mom! Family Activities and Events for Mother’s Day 2024

Delight your favorite mom with a special activity Mother’s Day weekend

11 Unique Mother’s Day Gifts From Northwest Makers

Impress Mom with these cool and thoughtful gifts

12 Mother’s Day Treats and Sweets

Super simple recipes for a super special day

2024 Passover Events for Seattle-Area Families

Celebrate with kid-friendly community events

Adorable Easter Decorations From Target

Make your home look eggstra cute this Easter with these sweet ideas

12 Pranks to Play on Your Kids This April Fools’ Day

Fun kid-friendly tricks for prankster parents

18 Easter Activities and Games for Kids

Crafts, games, coloring sheets and activities to celebrate Easter

Extraordinary Easter Egg Hunts and Activities for 2024

45+ Easter activities for Seattle-area kids and families

15+ Easter Egg Ideas

Have an egg-cellent Easter with DIY fun

Holi Events for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Play with color at local Holi celebrations

Leprechaun Treats, Tricks and Traps for St. Patrick’s Day

Fun ideas for celebrating St. Paddy’s Day with kids

12 Amazing Pie Recipes in Honor of Pi Day

Celebrate Pi Day with these 12 pie recipes!

12 St. Patrick's Day Crafts for Kids

Scavenger hunts, pots of gold and more St. Patrick's Day activities

20 Great Ramadan Reads for Kids of All Ages

Books about the Islamic month of Ramadan celebrate Muslim identities

20 Valentine’s Day Treats for Kids and Families

The way to a person’s heart? Through their stomach, of course

St. Patrick’s Day Events for Seattle-Area Families

Where to find family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day fun

14 Valentine’s Day Cards That Kids Can Make (Mostly) on Their Own

We heart these cute ideas

Lunar New Year Celebrations for Seattle-Area Families

Where to ring in the Year of the Dragon with kids

12 Valentine’s Day Favors That Won't Go to Waste

Skip the candy and plastic trinkets and try these handy gifts instead

Monkeyshines: Tacoma’s Beloved Lunar New Year Hunt

Grab your flashlights and your kids! It’s time to search

Indulgent Dry January Mocktails for a Refreshing Start to the Year

Pour yourself a beautiful mocktail and enjoy alcohol-free relaxation

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Events for Families

Learn more about Dr. King’s vision at Seattle-area celebrations

Chinese Zodiac for Kids and Parents

Expecting a bundle of joy in 2024? Read all about the Chinese zodiac sign of the Dragon

Choosing Safe Toys for Kids

Things to consider before your next gift-buying trip

Things to Do on Christmas Day in Seattle

7 exciting activities you can do on Dec. 25 with kids

New Year’s Events and Activities for Families

Family celebrations, hikes and plunges to ring in 2024

World Christmas: Holiday Traditions from Around the Globe

Celebrations from Europe, the Philippines, China and more!

30 Holiday Jokes Yule Love

Have a laugh with these silly and cute jokes

Welcoming Back the Light: Fun Ways to Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Family-friendly ways to celebrate the return of the sun

Delightful New Books for Everyone on Your Holiday List

From preschoolers to grown-ups, books for all your loved ones

You Need to Calm Down: We’ve Got Gifts for Every Swiftie on Your List

The best gifts for Taylor Swift superfans

10 Kid-Approved Hanukkah Recipes

From sweet treats to the main course

Family Events for Hanukkah 2023

Cupcakes, crafts and menorah lightings around Seattle

2023 Big Gift Giveaway

Enter to win one of 21 fantastic prizes for Puget Sound families

Must-Have Holiday Treats and Gifts From Trader Joe’s

Get these gorgeous goodies before they sell out

17 Gifts That Give Back

Use that holiday shopping list to do a little good

Hanukkah Crafts for Kids

From DIY menorahs to Hanukkah-themed decorations, these crafts will please any kiddo

Adorable Christmas Treats to Make With Kids

Christmas fudge, snowman cookies, Grinch popcorn and more

Coolest Toys and Gifts for Grown-Ups

Why should kids have all the fun?

Elf on the Shelf Alternatives

From gnomes who stay put, to elves who want to spread kindness

10 Christmas Cookies to Make This Holiday Season

Cute and festive cookies that are fun to make with kids.

16 Thanksgiving Crafts and Activities for Kids

Simple projects to keep the kids busy this Thanksgiving

Best Holiday Light Displays Around Seattle

Where to bask in holiday sparkle in 2023

Kids’ Books That Share True Stories of Native People

“It is vital we read books that are tribally specific, include Native sovereignty and depict Native peoples as diverse people of today.”

Giveaway: Win a $250 BBQ Feast from Famous Dave's

The holidays taste better with BBQ!

Must-Have Toys of 2023 for Every Kid on Your List

Your holiday shopping guide made easy

Quick and Easy Games to Keep Kids Busy on Thanksgiving

Six ideas to give yourself plenty of time to prep the feast

Unlocking Stress-Free Holiday Hosting: Your Ikea Essentials Guide

Be prepared for guests (expected or not!) this holiday season

Scary and Delicious Halloween Dinners

Get into the spirit with these fun and tasty ideas

Activity Advent Calendars for the Whole Family

Forget the low quality chocolate and pick up one of these activity calendars this year

Trending Fall Crafts for Your Next Moms' Night

These DIY projects are the perfect excuse to gather

10 Silly Halloween Pranks for Kids

Inject a little humor into your spooky season

Holiday Traditions at Alderbrook

With so many memory-making moments, families come back year after year

Challah! Symbolic Jewish New Year Food to Celebrate With Family

A delicious tradition for the three-week Jewish holiday season

Terrific Book Series That Can Turn Kids Into Lifelong Readers

Get your kid reading with these classic books

8 Super-Easy Party Ideas for the Fourth of July

Make your family celebration fun with easy treat and craft ideas

Fourth of July Parade-Ready Ideas

Prepping for a parade? Try out these patriotic ideas

Best Gifts for New Dads

Practical and adorable gifts for the new dad in your life

Fun and Practical Gifts for 2023 Graduates

From convenient tech to cozy comforts, celebrate your grad with these gift ideas

11 Father’s Day Crafts and Activities

Celebrate Dad Day with these adorable DIY gifts!

15 Adorable DIY Mother’s Day Cards

Sweet Mother’s Day card that kids can make

Offbeat Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day

Jokes, memes and more

4 Fun Ways to Celebrate May Day With Kids

Cute ideas for May 1 to celebrate spring, nature and neighbors

The Only Mother’s Day Recipe You Need

No-fail, scrumptious and so easy the kids can make it

Mother’s Day Her Way

Nifty ideas for making her day as special as she is

Think Outside the Egg: 6 Alternative Hunts for Easter and Beyond

From pirates to superheroes, simple ways to freshen up this year’s egg hunt

14 Candy-Free Ideas for Easter Baskets

Small surprises that are better than candy

14 Treat-Free Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Skip the sugar in favor of these sweet Valentine’s Day printables

Gorgeous Galentine’s Day Gifts From Seattle BIPOC-Owned Businesses

Show your love and support for women and local creators

11 Ways to Say ‘I Love You’ (Any Day of the Year)

Simple, sweet ways to show your special valentines that you care

Call the Sitter: This Is Not Your Average Valentine’s Day Date

Low-key and offbeat Valentine’s Day date ideas — with or without the kids

A Year of New Beginnings

Find your own right time to reset healthy habits and goals

9 Fun Ways to Celebrate the New Year With Kids

Cool ideas for celebrating New Year's Eve as a family

Free Light Shows You Can Still See This Season

Bundle up the kids and be dazzled!

13 Adorable Ornaments That Kids Can Make

These DIY ideas will keep the kiddos busy

Sweet Ideas to Set Up Your Own Hot Cocoa Bar

Take those cozy evenings to the next level

8 Sweet Ways to Send Your Letter to Santa

How to get a letter back from Old Saint Nick

Taproot Theatre’s ‘The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley’

A treat for fans of British drama (and those who love them)

Unique Gifts You Won't Find on Other Gift Guides

Family gifts that emphasize fun and togetherness

Holiday Magic at The Fair: Festive Fun for Families

Four out of four scones for the Fair’s holiday extravaganza!

Maintaining Mental Health During the Holiday Season

Reducing the stress of ‘the holiday blues’ is a gift for the whole family

2022 Big Gift Giveaway

Enter to win one of 14 amazing prizes, worth $3,055 in total

The Easy Hanukkah Guide: Recipes, Gifts and Activities for All Eight Nights

Tons of ideas to make Hanukkah memorable this year

8 Sweet Ideas for Your Elf on the Shelf

Silly and fun ideas to bring the holiday magic to life

Sensitive Santas Around Seattle and Beyond

Santa encounters for kids with sensory needs

24 Days of Holiday Books for Kids

A new holiday tradition your whole family will enjoy

8 Shortcut Holiday Appetizers and Desserts From Trader Joe's

Spend less time stressing and more time with the family

Thank You, Veterans: Local Events Honor Military Service

Puget Sound–area Veterans Day events for families

A Local Toy Whisperer’s Guide to the Best Holiday Gifts for 2022

15 totally terrific toys and games for tots — and adults

Slacker Mom’s Guide to Halloween Costumes

Last-minute Halloween costume request? No problem.

Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead With Kids

Día de los Muertos events for Seattle-area families

10 Kid-Friendly Crafts and Activities to Celebrate Diwali

Crafts, décor ideas and treats for your little sweets to celebrate the Festival of Lights

11 Ways to Celebrate Day of the Dead With Kids

Arts and crafts to honor Día de Muertos

The Hottest Toys for Christmas 2022

From babies to tweens, this guide offers gift ideas that are sure to please

Inexpensive Indoor and Outdoor Halloween Party Games for Kids

Fast, creepy, cheap and easy ideas

Is This Buggy Ice Cream a Trick or a Treat?

Where to taste ice cream with, umm, actual bugs in it

The Best Halloween Goodies at Costco

Halloween house kits, hot cocoa bombs, costumes and more

Two Recipes to Try This Halloween From “Spooky Snacks and Treats”

Keep all of your little monsters happy with these adorable treats

Hauntingly Fun Ideas for Your Halloween Celebration

Make this Halloween one that will really lift their spirits with these eerie-sistible ideas for festive food and frighteningly good fun

Trendy Costume Ideas for Halloween 2022

Get these costumes now before they sell out!

10 Awesome Father’s Day Gifts

Useful, funny and sweet gifts dads will love

7 Great Lawn Games to Play on Father’s Day

Gifts for Dads that deliver fun all season long

Best Ways to Pamper Mom on Mother’s Day

From cost-free treats to spectacular splurges

10 Tips to Beat the Post-Holiday Blues

For those of us feeling kinda down after the holidays are over

8 Global New Year's Foods to Try With Kids

Eat your way to a lucky 2022!

9 Homemade Christmas Gifts That Are Actually Useful

Sweet and fun DIY crafts that kids will be proud to gift

9 Easy DIY Holiday Wrapping Paper Ideas

Creative ways to wrap Christmas presents and holiday gifts

7 Sweet Holiday Traditions From Local Families 

ParentMap readers share their favorite ways to celebrate the season

10 Thoughtful Gifts for Faraway Friends and Family

Connect across the miles with clever ways to stay close

2021 Holiday Arts Preview: Let It Show, Let It Show, Let It Show!

Live performances are back, and we have a lot to choose from this holiday season

15 Fun Events and Outings for Families in December

Holiday lights, sensational shows, seasonal celebrations, epic Lego and dino exhibitions, and so much more!

Holiday Gifts: Managing Expectations With Your Kids

Three expert tips for stressing (and spending) less during the giving season

12 Ways to Celebrate a More Meaningful Holiday Season

Simple ideas to give back, connect with loved ones and show your appreciation for others

Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for Less Than $25

These little gifts are sure to spread big holiday joy

7 Magical Holiday Traditions to Start With Your Family

DIY gifts, chocolate bark, seasonal playlists and more

13 Awesome Lego Sets Kids (and Parents) Will Love

The coolest Lego sets ever!

15 Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Serve up something special this holiday season

5 Ways to Honor Veterans

On Nov. 11, recognize service and sacrifice

7 Easy DIY Holiday Gifts for Party Hosts, Friends and Neighbors

Adorable homemade gifts for the holiday season

Festive Train Trips and Sleigh Rides for Seattle-Area Families

Super-special winter fun for Northwest kids and families

10 Hottest Christmas Toys for 2021

Get these toys before they’re gone! 

The Best Local Gifts and Toys for Kids

Unique gifts for the giving season — homegrown in our own backyard

Start a New Tradition This Holiday Season

Festive meals, thoughtful gifts, and ways to give back and spread cheer

An Old-Fashioned Christmas: Rustic and Vintage Christmas Décor

Celebrate with some nostalgic cheer this year

6 Ways to Use That Pumpkin You Never Carved

Facing an angry mob of pumpkins on your front porch? Never fear.

10 No-Carve, No-Mess Pumpkin Ideas for Halloween

Skip the sharp knives and pumpkin guts and try one of these DIY jack-o'-lanterns for Halloween!

18 Ideas to Make Halloween Super Safe and Totally Awesome

Creative ideas for our second pandemic Halloween

Woodland Park Zoo’s Holiday Lantern Festival Is Back for 2021

Tickets are on sale now

Trendy Costume Ideas for Halloween 2021

Costumes for kids who love ‘Paw Patrol,’ ‘Shimmer and Shine,’ ‘Cobra Kai’ and more

Help Your Neurodiverse Child Have a Happier Halloween

Expert-approved tips for making Halloween celebrations a little easier

6 Delightfully Creepy Outdoor Halloween Decorations

Brighten up your holiday spirits

A Local Mom on Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

A mom shares her grandmother’s recipe for migas

12 Terrific Pumpkin Patches for South Sound-Area Families

Where to pick your perfect pumpkin this fall

9 Children's Books About Yom Kippur

Inspiring kids' books about tradition, forgiveness and more

10 DIY Father's Day Gifts That Kids Can Help Make

Celebrate Dad with one of these thoughtful gifts

Great Ways to Celebrate Dear Old Dad on Father’s Day

Recipes, gifts, cards and more ideas to show Pop some love

Memorial Day Activities to Make It Meaningful

4 easy ways to show your appreciation

Dozens of Ways to Pamper Mom on Mother’s Day

Recipes, gifts, cards and more ideas to make Mom feel special

12 Mother’s Day Gifts That Kids Can Make

Try one of these easy DIY ideas for a sentimental homemade gift

7 Earth Day Crafts and Activities for Kids

DIY recycling games, art projects and more!

10 Must-Have Pampering Products for Worn-Out Moms

Treat yourself to a spa day at home this Mother's Day

7 Extra Special Easter Activities to Try With the Kids

Fun crafts, activities, recipes and more for Easter

Make the Year of the Ox Rock!

Fun ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year at home

8 Holiday Cocktails and Mocktails for Kids and Families

Celebrate with some festive beverages

10 Great Breakfast Ideas for Christmas Morning

After they work up an appetite opening gifts, these breakfasts will be sure to please

Starlight Lane: Flashy Drive-Through Show for the Holidays

How’s this new show for families?

Holiday Magic at The Fair: What Families Need to Know

Our reviewer spills on her family's sneak peak

Gift Planner for 2020: Best Holiday Gifts for the Whole Family

Tons of gift ideas for preschoolers, picky teens, energetic kids, grandparents and more

9 Terrific Tech Gifts for Picky Teenagers

Teen-friendly gear for under $80

Know Before You Go: Holiday Travel During the Pandemic

Medical experts weigh in on minimizing COVID-19 risks during seasonal travel

8 Kid-Friendly Recipes for Thanksgiving Leftovers

Delicious ideas for leftovers that the whole family will appreciate

At Home for the Holidays

A guide to celebrating a meaningful (yet socially distanced) holiday season

8 Tips for Taking a Beautiful Family Photo

How to take a fabulous family photo for holiday cards and more

25 Best-Selling Toys Recommended by Local Toy Stores

Local toy store owners weigh in

16 Toys and Games That'll Get Kids Moving

Gifts for a happy, healthy holiday

Where to Visit Santa Around Seattle in 2020

10 virtual or distanced ways to see St. Nick this season

Holiday Gifts for Kids That’ll Keep on Giving

The best experiences, subscriptions, memberships and more to give this Christmas

Virtual Thanksgiving: 8 Ways to Connect This Season

Simple ideas to spread holiday cheer and be together with family and friends

12 Self-Care Products To Get You Through the Winter

Cozy slippers, happy lamps, diffusers and more

Unexpected Joys: Top 20 Toys for 2020

Toys that focus on unplugged fun, soothing sensory experiences and neighborhood play

15 DIY Halloween Costumes That Kids Love

Favorite characters from Maleficent, Pokémon, Star Wars and more

10 Adorable Baby and Toddler Halloween Costumes

Cute costumes worthy of Instagram fame

12 Easy Halloween Party Snacks

Give your little goblins and ghouls some festive treats

How to Have a Fun and Safe Halloween During a Pandemic

Celebrate the spooky season safely with these tips

What the Jewish High Holy Days Can Teach Us All About the Power of Self-Reflection

A Q + A with Rabbi Daniel Weiner

10 Ideas for a Quarantine-Style Mother’s Day

Celebrate Mom and support local this Mother's Day

10 Easy Mother’s Day Recipes

Anyone can whip up these mom-pleasing recipes

Mother’s Day Brunch Giveaway — Enter to Win!

Bring a five-star brunch to Mom this year

15 Best Board Games to Boost Family Connection

Beat cabin fever with a family game night

Insider's Guide to Lunar New Year Festivals Around Seattle

Where to ring in the Year of the Rat with kids

My Family Burns Down Winter...Literally

A Solstice Tradition

Holiday Photo Fails That'll Make You Laugh

At least Santa looks good!

Catch This Amazing Botanical Light Show While You Can

Light Plantasia dazzles... but only for a few days

‘Robin Hood’ Panto Is Jolly-Good Fun for Families

Centerstage Theatre’s interactive show totally engages kids (and adults)

Seattle’s Newest Holiday Light Show: Lumaze

What you need to know to take the kids

Give Them Less This Christmas

A mom on how she convinced family to give her kids less stuff

Cracking the Nutcracker Code: Local Performances for Families

From one-hour versions perfect for tots to the PNB spectacular

7 Tips for Enjoying 'The Nutcracker' With Kids

How to survive the holiday classic with littles in tow

Make Your Kid’s Classroom More Inclusive During the Winter Holidays

Ideas that don't mean more work for teacher

Dear Reader: Here’s to Less Stress This Holiday Season

Editor's note for ParentMap's December 2019 Issue

15 Magical (and Cheap) Holiday Outings Around the South Sound

Holiday sparkle for families on a budget

Holiday Shows Your Family Won't Want to Miss

Give your family the gift of performance with these holiday shows

7 Amazing Places to Take Family Photos

Gorgeous spots around Seattle to capture the perfect pic

Tacoma's Frozen Fountain Ice Skating Rink

Get your glide on as a family at Point Ruston's seasonal rink

Haunted Forest Attraction: Frightful Fun for Different Ages

Dark and scary for older kids; light and friendly for the younger set

Target's New Sensory Sensitive and Adaptive Costumes Are Here

And they're comfy and cute!

Keep Your Trick-or-Treaters Safe This Year With These Tips

Busy roads, free-ranging after dark and more safety concerns you've been wondering about

Keep It Cheap With These Dollar Store Halloween Ideas

Simple and budget-friendly Halloween decorations that are fun to make

Halloween for Sensory-Sensitive Kids

How to make Halloween less overwhelming for a child with a sensory processing disorder

Family Halloween Costumes Your Kids Will Love

16 Puget Sound families show this holiday’s not just for kids

How One Dad Got Exactly What He Wanted for Father's Day

Only a dad could come up with a genius idea like this

Get Your Free Slurpee at 7-Eleven Today

It's July 11, get it?

Terrific Teacher Gifts for Procrastinators

Printables and more easy solutions for the special teachers in your life

13 Father's Day Gifts That Kids Can Make

These Dad-friendly ideas will make Father's Day a breeze

The Best Northwest Beers and Brewpubs for Father's Day

Pick up a great local beer this Father's Day

5 Brunch Spots to Enjoy With the Kids

Sweet family-friendly brunch spots around Seattle and the Eastside

What Mom Really Wants For Mother's Day

Cocktails, steak and sushi

Easter Egg Hunts and Activities Around the South Sound for 2019

Hop to these family events for Easter-weekend fun

11 Egg-cellent Easter Crafts for the Kiddos

Easter isn't just for decorating eggs!

13 Easter Treats for Kids and Families

Try these yummy treats and snacks for the holiday

The Snip: The Ultimate Valentine's Day Gift

The one gift your partner really wants you to get her

10 Global Holiday Desserts

These are universally yummy

Beloved 'Annie' at Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre

The classic is just as you remember it, with a casting twist

If the Holidays Are About Rest, Why Am I So Busy?

A mother's plea to relax this season

Enchant Christmas: Worth the Splurge?

The scoop for families on our newest holiday spectacle

Holiday Shows For Every Family

A holiday arts guide for every budget

This Year, Let’s Have a Good-Enough Holiday

The best gift of all? Sanity

Local Holiday Toy Drives, Giving Trees and More

Ways for families to support families this season

Why I Hate the Elf on the Shelf

A mom on why she despises that pesky pixie

Win a $500 Shopping Spree From The Outlet Collection Seattle

Enter now

Making the Holidays Work When You're Divorced

How to get through the holidays and keep the peace

What I Learned From a Family's First Night in America

Two families meet from worlds away

6 Kid-Friendly Happy Hours Around Seattle and the Eastside

Holiday cheer and cheap bites combine for fun family time

This Mom's Solution to Halloween Candy Is Simple (and Fun!)

Why you should try it

Need Pumpkin Carving Tips? The Pumpkin Professor Is In

Tips, tricks and ideas from a pumpkin carving pro

Take the Kids to See 'Hocus Pocus' This Halloween

Get your $5 tickets for the cult classic's 25th anniversary

14 Spooky Lunch Ideas for Kids

These are so cute it's almost scary

Why We're Celebrating Día de los Muertos for the First Time Ever

A Mexican-American mom on why she's sharing the tradition with her daughter

My Kids Don't Get to Choose Their Halloween Costumes

This holiday isn't for them — it's for me

3 Last-Minute Fourth of July Recipes

The fireworks won't be the only thing they'll love

8 Tips for a Perfect Tea Party

Celebrate the Royal Wedding with an English tea party

18 Homemade Mother's Day Gifts

Try one of these impressive gifts

Your Kids Will Love These St. Patrick's Day Recipes

No luck required to make these tasty treats!

6 Ways to Share the Love on Valentine’s Day

It doesn't have to be all about Cupid on Feb. 14

So, You Just Realized It's Almost Valentine's Day

Crafts that won't take you all night to make

13 Free Ideas for Valentines

Make 'em for the whole class or just for your kid!

I Never Cared About Valentine's Day — Until I Had Kids

“All those people celebrating were just parents. Parents desperate for a moment alone.”

New Year's Eve Crafts and Games

The time will fly with these activities

7 Ways to Celebrate New Year's Eve With Kids

Who says only grown-ups get to have fun on NYE?

All I Want for Christmas Is to Be Left Alone

'It got to the point where I began to actually empathize with the Grinch'

Celebrating Christmas from the Couch

How one pregnant mom is coping with bedrest over the holidays

12 Tips for Finding Joy This Holiday Season

Tame the holiday circus with these simple strategies

My Son Doesn't Care About Santa and That's Okay

A Santa-loving mom comes to terms with her son's disinterest

Your Gift-Giving Preferences Are Probably Classist

'I tend to think these parents have more money than self-awareness'

Why We're Saying No to Gifts This Christmas

Gift-giving is expensive — and maybe even unnecessary

Should You Go to the Seattle Lantern Light Festival?

All you need to know about the new light show in Puyallup

Autistic Seattle Teen Designs Epic Holiday Light Show

Head to Maple Leaf for a special December spectacle

25 Gifts My Kid Won't Be Getting for Christmas

“Please revise and resubmit.”

Your Holiday Survival Guide

24 essential tips from parents like you

Stop It With the Holiday Letters Already

Why are we bragging, anyway?

A Dickens of a Holiday Romp: 'A Christmas Carol' at ACT

ACT Theatre's holiday tradition is fierce and funny

The 5th Avenue Theatre Serves Up Holiday Charm

You'll be humming Irving Berlin classics all the way home

Sharing Christmas With My Daughter — Not Christ

"I'm the most church-going atheist my friends have ever known."

How Seattle's Atheist Families Celebrate

A look at how Seattle's growing atheist population celebrates the holidays

One Mother's Changing Relationship With Religion

"I do believe: I believe in being a good person and in doing good."

Where to Volunteer This December

10 family volunteer opportunities around Seattle and beyond

12 Easy Homemade Christmas Decorations

Add some holiday cheer on the cheap

Why One Mom Says No Thank You Note, No Gifts

Tips for raising grateful — not greedy — kids

12 Kid-Friendly Arts, Crafts and Snacks for Hanukkah

Menorahs, dreidels and other DIY Hanukkah food and fun for kids and families

9 Thanksgiving Lunch Ideas

Make lunch festive

7 Holiday Side Dishes Even Picky Kids Will Love

Easy holiday recipes the whole family will enjoy

Want Free Starbucks? Bring a Friend

Limited time buy-one-get-one-free deal on holiday drinks

10 Allergy-Free Holiday Desserts

Gluten-free, dairy-free, peanut-free, egg-free, soy-free, nut-free and more!

Don't Blow Your Budget This Holiday Season

It doesn't have to be the most expensive time of the year

12 Tech Gifts Your Kids Will Totally Love

Rack up the cool-parent cred this holiday season

5 Sweet Alternatives to the Halloween Switch Witch

Don't make the loot disappear. Instead, use Halloween candy to teach valuable life skills

Grandparents Day Fun Around Puget Sound

Spot a moose, play in a museum, ride a train: 10 ways to celebrate grandparents around Seattle

Priced Out of Bumbershoot? Here Are 11 Awesome Alternatives

Music festivals, free concerts, a ski sale, a rodeo and more Labor Day weekend fun

Red, White and Blueberry Buckle

The importance of building family food traditions, once a year or more

10 Great Dessert Ideas for Red, White and Blue Holidays

Feeling patriotic? Try one of these easy-to-make, fun-to-eat recipes

Moms in the Wild: Northwest Critters Who Perform Amazing Maternal Feats

See how you measure up to an octopus, hummingbird, mason bee and more

13 Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Mom

Get creative with these out-of-the-ordinary Mother's Day gift ideas

Best Mother's Day Gifts, Cards and Activities

We love you, Mom!

Best Easter Activities, Egg Hunts, Recipes and More!

Hop to it! These ideas will make Easter egg-cellent

Why It's April Fool's Day In Our House All Year

"Pranks are my family's way of showing love"

14 Easter Crafts for Kids

Spring into action with these DIY ideas

10 Fun Ways to Share the Love

We heart these DIY ideas

Why Your Family Should Write a Mission Statement

Use this season of reflection to plan ahead for the new year

Why the Toys You Buy Matter

"I want to shield my kids as much as I can from the hurt that comes from being different"

Why You Need a Hygge Family Holiday This Year

Trading frenzied for cozy the Scandinavian way

How to Choose the Right Christmas Tree

Pitting flexibility and ease against cost and the environment can leave anyone stumped — this guide can help

Injecting Culture Into Christmas

One mom reflects on whether Christmas is whitewashed and speaks with families of color about how they respond

Best Seattle-area Holiday Outings for Kids and Families

Chances are good there's a festive activity right for your family — consider this your guide to finding fun

10 Secret Holiday Adventures Around Puget Sound

The path less traveled to gingerbread, gift-making, lights and giving back

Sea You There! Disney's 'The Little Mermaid' Is a Fantastical Holiday Catch

A spectacular under-the-sea set, lots of hilarity and a heroine who does the rescuing

Review: 'Red Riding Hood' Panto Is Rollicking Fun for the Whole Family

Head to Centerstage Theatre to boo, laugh, cheer and make panto your new holiday tradition

A Rabbi, an Imam, a Priest and a Buddhist Walk Into an Interview...

Reflecting on common values and points of connection

PNB's 'George Balanchine's The Nutcracker': Not Much Spice, But Still Very Nice

Sophomore year of the rejuvenated ballet, with Balanchine's vision and Ian Falconer's art, is gorgeous but chaste

Create a Family Vision Board

An easy craft good for individuals and the whole family

Ring in the Holiday Shows! December Arts Guide for Seattle-area Families

More than 40 plays, concerts and ‘Nutcrackers’ add sparkle to the season

12 Tips for Skipping Family Drama This Holiday Season

Festivities without the fighting — make them happen with this advice on how to navigate emotional ups and downs with family members

7 Festive Thanksgiving Crafts and Activities

Need to occupy the kiddos this holiday? We've got you covered

Dear Reader: Eight Years Later

Ask yourself, ‘Are you better off than you were four years ago?’

Giveaway: Win the Ultimate Holiday Family Funday at Grand Ridge Plaza

Santa photos, food, movies, shopping and more

2016 Holiday Gift Guide: Robot Kits, Seahawks Gear, Pokémon and More

These toys will tap into kids' obsessions but will hold interest long after December

Best Holiday Gifts for Kids in 2016

Santa's got nothing on this list of the top gifts to get your kids

Fourth of July Crafts: Make Red, White and Blue Art for the Holiday

Celebrate Independence Day with these patriotic arts and crafts

Full Plate: Celebrating All the Mothers

'To all of you women who have faced infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant or child loss; to those who have lost their adult children too soon: I celebrate you'

Remembering the Holocaust with 'Anne Frank: A History for Today' Exhibit

The traveling exhibit at Seattle's Holocaust Center for Humanity shares the history of the Holocaust through the life of a young girl

It's a Leap Year! Celebrate February 29 With These 7 Crafty Ideas

Hop into a Leap Year party with these 7 frog-themed ideas to get you started

Help Kids Say 'Thank You!' With 3 Ideas for Creative Thank-You Notes

From videos to photos to gratitude mad libs, there is a thank-you note for the most reluctant writer

10 Things to Do With Kids in Seattle's Chinatown-International District, for Lunar New Year and Beyond

Year of the Monkey fun, pinball, streetcar, breakdancing, Bruce Lee and more family fun in the I.D.

Brutally Honest Valentine's Day Cards

True love, unfiltered

What You Should Do With Your List of Marital Grudges This Valentine's Day

"Both of us were completely flawed then and are completely flawed now," reflects one mother, who learned she married her husband for his potential

New Year, New You? 5 Practical Tips to Help Your Family with New Year's Resolutions

Start the new year off with a plan by teaching your kids how to set and achieve realistic goals in 2016

Christmas Crafts? These are Not Your Mama’s Salt Dough Ornaments

New takes on the traditional family DIY holiday craft activity: making salt dough ornaments!

Wild Cats: Behind the Scenes at Cougar Mountain Zoo

Lemurs, tigers, and Rudolph, the reindeer baby

Parenting Abroad: The Magical Christmas Markets of Germany

An American family experiences their first German Christmas

Just In: Up On the Rooftop, Mama’s Totally, Completely Losing It

Parents searching for comfort and joy might want to leave the Elf On the Shelf in storage

Show and Tell: 'The Sound of Music' at The 5th Avenue Theatre

The magical absorption of seeing something fresh (when you’ve known it your whole life)

Show and Tell: 'Sleeping Beauty' Panto at Centerstage Theatre

Physical comedy, slapstick, and crazy role reversals equal holiday fun for all

Measuring the Magic of Pacific Northwest Ballet's New 'Nutcracker'

Lighthearted, whimsical, still joyous: A review of George Balanchine's 'The Nutcracker'

Holiday Gifts and Stocking Stuffers for Musical Kids

Toddler-friendly punk, starter synthesizer, awesome music-making app and more

6 Hum-worthy CDs to Help Families Survive the Holidays

Canned Christmas music, begone! Freshen up your holiday collection with these fun CDs kids will love

Big-Ticket Gifts that Can Last a Childhood

From a (safe) trampoline to a Little Free Library the whole neighborhood will enjoy, super gifts that entertain all year and beyond

Let It Show! Holiday Arts Guide for Seattle-area Kids and Families

Ring in December with one of these 70-plus jingle shows and concerts, from free sing-alongs to spectacular splurges

Elf on the Shelf Accessories That Will Never Get Made

'The problem for subpar parents like myself is that the Elf on the Shelf has become another outlet for holiday Pinterest shaming'

Star Wars, STEM and Shopkins: Our 2015 Holiday Gift Guide

Our list of hot holiday toys that provide fun, nostalgia, learning and exploration

Reaching for Something Greater: How Local Families Define Spirituality in Old Ways and New

4 Seattle-area families share some of the spiritual rituals they practice with their kids, from organized religion to family rituals, fostering love, compassion and a sense of something greater

Merry Sithmas! 'Star Wars' Gingerbread Village Is Epic Holiday Fun in Downtown Seattle

Six villages, one for each movie, each entirely made of candy, chocolate, dough, icing, almond paste and lots o' hot glue

Homegrown Holidays: Top Ten Toys Picks Top Local Toys

The owner of the independent toy store shares his picks for Northwest-made toys

10 Fabulous Facts About George Balanchine's 'The Nutcracker' at PNB

'Mother Ginger’s skirt alone weighs 60 pounds, is ten feet wide and hides eight tiny dancers.'

A Year of Giving: Family Volunteering Opps that You Can Do All Year

From cuddling cats to planting trees, 12 ways to give back with kids long after the holiday season

Show and Tell: 'The Witch in Which Wood?' at Youth Theatre Northwest

An outdoor theater adventure where young kids get to be Halloween superheroes

Indian Expat Parent: Celebrating Diwali in Seattle

What the Indian festival of lights means and where to celebrate it around Seattle and the Eastside

5 Ways to Help Children With Sensory Challenges Participate in Halloween

Overwhelming sights, smells and textures do not have to sideline children with sensory challenges — here's how you can still have fun this Halloween

ParentMap's Harvest + Halloween Photo Contest

Enter your photos to win awesome prizes!

5 Fun Halloween Costume Ideas for Pregnant Women

Highlight your baby bump with these fun, DIY Halloween costume ideas for pregnant women

Spooktacular Halloween Costumes for Babies, Toddlers and the Big Kids

From 'Star Wars' to 'Inside Out,' one-stop spot for awesome 2015 costume ideas

10 Ways to Cozy Up Your Nest for Fall

Craving cozy? Celebrate the chilly weather with these 10 home decor ideas that honor autumn

How I Learned to Love Father's Day

One dad reflects on growing up fatherless, and how his son helped change the way he views Father's Day

Dig In to Earth Month: Naturific Activities for Fun and Service

April Fools' Day Is Dangerous for the Sarcastic Parent

It's a thin line between a silly joke and being a jerk, and I would fall face first on jerk side

Sweet! 13 Candy-free Easter-Basket Treats that Kids Will Love

Puzzles, Legos, stuffies, books and more sugar-free goodies for your bunnies

Honest Valentine's Day Cards For Moms

Because 'romance' means something different when you're a parent

Honoring Holocaust Remembrance Day around Puget Sound

From a free concert to a documentary screening to books that teach

Holiday Review: Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

5 Ways to Survive Winter Break Doldrums

O Christmas Treat: Christmas Cakes and Holiday Desserts

DIY a festive dessert with these tips and tutorials for cakes, cupcakes and more

Review: Magical Strings' Celtic Yuletide Concerts

A magical holiday show with step dancing, juggling, Irish instruments and a dress-up parade

9 Handmade Christmas Stocking Ideas

Craft a memory with your kids by hand with these DIY stocking ideas

Buy Nothing for the Holidays

How joining a Buy Nothing Group inspired generosity in my children and community

Saying Goodbye: Review of Pacific Northwest Ballet's Stowell and Sendak 'Nutcracker'

A girl's coming-of-age story is as magic as ever, but ready for an update

Retro Toys Rock: 2014 Holiday Gift Guide

Fall Into Baking: Cakes and Treats Inspired by Autumn

Baking tips and ideas for celebrating autumn and Thanksgiving

Fun and Creative Holiday Cards and Family Photo Ideas

Crafty DIY Christmas, Hanukkah, and holiday cards and perfect props and poses for photo cards

DIY Christmas Tree Ornaments Kids Can Make

Deck your halls with these clever holiday ornaments the whole family can create!

Explaining Thanksgiving to my Grandma

ParentMap's Indian Expat Parent shares her conversation with her grandmother about American holidays

Simple DIY Gifts Kids Can Make for the Holidays

Homemade, handmade and recycled ideas to spread the Christmas and holiday cheer

Safe Pumpkin-Carving Tips for Kids and Families

The right tools, templates and steps will lead you to the perfect Halloween pumpkin!

Halloween Play List: Indoor Spooktastic Events Around Seattle and the Eastside

11 Fun + Easy Pumpkin and Halloween Crafts to Do with Your Kids

Easy-as-(pumpkin)-pie crafts for Halloween, harvest and celebrating fall

Scary Fun: A Mom's Review of Fright Fest

Fall Décor Crafts for Kids

Ring in harvest and celebrate autumn with these creative ideas

Harvest + Halloween Photo Contest

Submit your photos for the chance to win over $1,600 worth of prizes!

What a Good Dad Knows (Even If He Doesn't Finish the Dollhouse)

Who's Your Daddy?

Personal stories about what it means to be a father

Tap Dancing for My Mom

Mother's Day Play List: 25 Adventures for Seattle Families

Better Together

What happens when grandma lives at home, grandpa is called “Dad,” and multiple generations parent everyone

Get Out and Give Back! Seattle Family Volunteering Opportunities for Spring 2014

Mimosa's the Word: 17 Mother's Day Brunch Spots in the Seattle Area

From Chinese noodles to lobster frittata to Swedish pancakes, find delicious brunch fare here

Good Egg Hunts: Easter Hunts and Activities for Kids in Greater Seattle and the South Sound

Grab your bunnies and go!

Indian Expat Parent: Happy Holi, Stranger

From Phone to Doorstep: 9 Apps to Send Cards or Gifts Over Long Distance

Photo and greeting apps help kids and family stay connected to grandparents and loved ones

12 Homemade Valentine's Day Cards for Kids

Sweet superheroes, "hearty" upcycled crayons and more inspired ideas

7 Apps for Kids to Learn About the Civil Rights Movement and Martin Luther King Jr.

From a recording of MLK's 'I Have a Dream' speech to an app that lets kids ride with Rosa Parks, we round up the best tech-fueled teaching tools

Why These Students Have the Best Gift of the Year

The Best Last-Minute Gift Idea Ever (That Involves Zero Stuff)

It's our family's best holiday tradition

Holiday Field Trip: The Lights of Christmas

Jingle Belle All the Way: Bellevue's Snowflake Lane Is Pure Holiday Magic

Radical Dollhouses and Girlpower Play: Q&A with Roominate's Alice Brooks

Doing Good: Create a Sustainable Volunteer Opportunity With Your Family

Parent to Parent: Watching Out for Food Allergies This Holiday Season

Doing Good: A Different Way to Give for Birthdays and Holidays

Halloween Photo Contest Winners!

Family Travel Tales: Seven Steps to the Worst Travel Day Ever

Hop on Shop: 6 Handmade Holiday Arts Fairs for Seattle Kids and Families

Where to shop for unique handmade gifts, craft away, and celebrate the season of giving

Not All Heroes Wear Uniforms