Category Archives: Holidays with kids

Parent Review: Miracle on 34th Street The Musical

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Gobble Up
Some Family Memories this Thanksgiving!

Miracle Poster

 

Kris Kringle is Alive and Well and in The Hub City…
Catch him while you can!
Special holiday week shows through Sunday November 26th.

Moonlight Broadway has given area families another holiday treat… a chance to bridge generations with its latest production of Meredith Willson’s Miracle on 34th Street – The Musical.  It’s the perfect outing for the entire family during the Thanksgiving holiday week, whether they are coming from out of town or across the street, are young or old.  And this production is particularly charming because, in true Moonlight Musicals fashion, they have included many children into the cast.

In fact, the story line revolves around a child: Susan Walker (enthusiastically played by Abi Mills).  Susan is a little girl who was never allowed to believe in Santa or other things that are not tangible.  It was a well-intentioned strategy by her mother, Doris, to protect Susan from being hurt or disappointed from dreams that may not come true.  Susan’s quest to discover if her friend Kris Kringle really is who he says he is, strikes a chord with the kids in the audience, establishing Susan as a hero: she is the little girl who finds her Santa and whose faith helps inspire all the adults around her to believe in and follow their own dreams.

Santa march

The Thanksgiving Day Parade scene at the first of the show, with the kids and floats is fun, and includes a spirited march as the children at the parade fall in behind Santa, forming a line and marching to, of all things, a Christmas carol!

The music is festive and enjoyable and helps make the musical version more lighthearted than the screenplay versions.  One that everyone in the audience will recognize is a family fave:  “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”… who knew that one of our favorite carols was born on the stage!

We loved the gentle, kind, yet commanding presence of Kris Kringle, played wonderfully by Mike Morgan.  His warm and playful manner was fun to watch as he interacted with the children on stage, from leading the kids on a holiday march, to answering their questions and requests with compassion and sage advice.  And what our kids enjoyed as well, was seeing how Kris was able to to help the grown-ups believe once again in miracles and in the goodness of people.

Santa and HendrikaA real treasure in this production, was a song performed by Santa and a little Dutch girl, Hendrika (played by Aubrey Giselle).  Santa is approached by the girl’s guardian, who tells Santa that the little girl speaks no English yet, only Dutch, whereby Santa begins a conversation in her language and they sing the little girl’s favorite Christmas carol together, “Bugles.”  It was an enchanting moment for the audience and the pivotal moment when Susan started to believe that the gentleman known as Kris Kringle, could in fact be Santa Claus.

Parent Pointers:

Parents need to be aware that the show does start by showing a tipsy Santa, who was to be in the parade, which gave the real Kris Kringle the chance to take over as Santa in the parade.  And the entire basis of the show centers around the disbelief in Santa Claus:  Susan was never allowed to believe in Santa or other things that are not tangible.  So parents may want to be prepared to answer some similar questions.  However, as the story progresses, Susan was shown that “Faith is believing in something that common sense tells you otherwise” – another teachable moment with out kids.

Preparing for the show:

Miracle on 34th Street has several different productions available on film or video, which would be fun to watch together either before or after seeing the play.  Most of the movies are not the musicals, so especially with older kids, it would be interesting for them to see the difference in a musical format compared to a story or screenplay format and for them to share which they prefer.  In addition to having a Christmas theme with Santa and some recognizable music, the show also features rich dialogue that is a great chance for older kids to follow the story, but that might lose the interest for the littlest audience members at times.Miracle cover

Miracle on 34th Street is set in the post WWII era, which gives us the opportunity to share with our kids how things were different.  One of the main characters was in the Marines, and uses words like “dames” in reference to some ladies and “the head” when talking about the restroom, which can be explained in today’s context.  And an explanation or Google search for “Gimble’s” and “Macy’s” before the show could help them understand that during that time period Gimble’s and Macy’s were real stores and heated competitors, not just the men who were in the show.

How families benefit:

Thanks to Moonlight Musicals, we’ve had the chance to enrich our children with the inspirational, magical, and yes miraculous, world of performing arts.  And what some may not realize, or forget at times, is that Moonlight Musicals is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.  As parents, we can feel that purchasing a ticket to their performances is a win/win: our kids are exposed to high-quality theatre giving us precious time together and conversations about topics that are brought to light, plus we are supporting a local nonprofit.  The seeds planted by Moonlight Musicals throughout the community have been exciting to see take root and grow.  Every theatre department and group in the area has either been formed as an off-shoot or has greatly benefited from the multiple opportunities for children (and adults) to hone their on-stage experiences.  The vibrant Lubbock theatre community gives thankful parents many outlets for our kids to be able to tap into their inner star (and for some theatre parents it’s a God-send, giving our spirited kiddos the outlet they need!).

Just the Facts!

When: Thursday, November 16, 2017 7:30 PM.
Friday, November 17, 2017 7:30 PM.
Sunday, November 19, 2017 2:00 PM.
Monday, November 20, 2017 7:30 PM.
Friday, November 13, 2017 7:30 PM.
Saturday, November 14, 2017 2:00 PM.
Saturday, November 14, 2017 7:30 PM.
Sunday, November 15, 2017 2:00 PM.

Where: Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Theatre. 1501 Mac Davis Lane, Lubbock, TX 79401.

How: Tickets are available at Select-a-Seat, online, or by calling 806-770-2000. Prices Range from Prices range from $prices range from $15 – $35 for children and from $25 – $65 for adults.

Length: Lasts approximately 2 hours with a 20 minute intermission included.

Age: Recommended for ages 4+ but best for 6+ .  Younger kids may get antsy at times.

Going to the show?  Let us know!  Write your reviews below.

 

Credits:  Book, Music & Lyrics by Meredith Willson.  Based on the 29th Centrury Fox Pictures.  Story by Valentine Davies.  Screen Play by George Seaton.
All rights to Willson’s song catalog owned by Sir Paul McCartney.

Images from Lubbock Moonlight Broadway 2017 production of Miracle on 34th Street – the Musical, LubbockForKids.com, and Kim Phillips.

Five Thanksgiving Memories You Can Make With Recyclable Crafts

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by Baron Eliason
Founder, 123Recycling, Lubbock
Guest Contributor

Fall ProjectsThe holidays are custom made for memory making as a family. Making memories happens best when we take the time to work with our kids on things that are fun. If you can do that and teach some valuable life lessons – so much the better. 123 Recycling will be happy to pick up your recyclables but how much better if you reuse them for some holiday fun with the kids!

The goal of this article is to combine the memory making potential of Thanksgiving with the world changing emphasis on recycling, repurposing, and responding to the need to be better stewards of our earth.

This week the focus is Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to introduce kids to recycling and reusing with fun crafts made from reusable material. A great fact to know and share with them is that we believe 65% of what we throw out is recyclable. I’m guessing that the percent that is reusable in some way would raise that number even higher. That means there is a lot of free stuff we can use for art just lying around.

So without further adeu, here are five ideas from my little brain – get creative and I’ll be you can do even better!

Beauty of Fall Display Boxes

Fall Display BoxesContainers for fruits are amazing resources for kids to use for stashing all kinds of things, especially the small ones. This one was used for organic apples and makes an amazing display case for the wonders of Fall such as beautiful leaves, acorns, pecans, and other wonderful bounty that kids love to find and to show off. Kids will love finding the best leaves and showing off their finds.

Turkeys, Pilgrims, and Indians – Oh My!

TurkeysEgg cartons and cardboard rolls make great tools for creating all kinds of characters from Turkeys to Pilgrims and Indians. A quick trip to a craft store and you could find some really cool stuff to add like google eyes, feathers, felt for clothes. But, a simple set of markers and crayons will do the trick as well.

You could make a whole tableau of the first Thanksgiving meal. Special hint: paper plates are great material for making a turkey’s fanned feathers.

Pump-can Decoration

PumpCansHere is an idea from Pam Bibb, art teacher at Miller Elementary. She loves to work with recyclable materials and her students have made some amazing robots. For Fall, she takes empty cans and colored paper to make pump-cans. This is something easy for kids to make and great for table decorations for the big feast. P.S. – mason jars will also work.

Fall Candle Celebrations

CandlesHere is an idea to take glass containers like mason jars or jelly jars, etc. and turn them into celebrations of Fall. My girl picked some leaves. I found a pickle jar. We used clear Scotch tape to attach them. If you are inclined, attach them by decoupaging. Insert candle and enjoy! The light will shine through the leaves and give you a beautiful show for free.

Napkin Rings

NapkinRingsTake some paper tubes, apply glue, roll on something fun and Fall-ish. Next, cut them down to size. Finally, add whatever else you might desire to make really cool napkin holders. I will say that the glue is more of a project. Again, I went with Scotch tape.

We hope you enjoy Thanksgiving and that these ideas will help you create some memories with your kids. Stay tuned for our next blog post next month for more ideas related to Christmas. If you have some ideas you would like to share, please email them to me at baron@123recycling.org.

Help Make Your Child’s Halloween Experience Positive

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By Kelly Martin, M.Ed, LPC
Guest Contributor

We are excited to introduce our readers to Kelly Martin… our newest contributor!  Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor, parent, and owner of The Playroom Lubbock offering therapy counseling services specifically for children and adolescents.  From individual and group Play Therapy to yoga and parent-included classes, Kelly and her team offer a wealth of support for local kiddos and parents.  Specialties include divorce care, self esteem, social skills, anxiety, grief, anger management, ADHD support… topics that hit home with many area kids and families.  We love Kelly’s first article… full of timely advice for all parents and especially helpful for children with sensory challenges.  Have questions or ideas for future blog topics?  Just comment below or you can contact Kelly directly at kelly@playroomlubbock.com and through her website at Playroomlubbock.com.
Welcome Kelly!

Help Make Your Child’s Halloween Experience Positive

Halloween Kids Jump

As Halloween approaches with all of the costumes, sights, sounds, smells, fall festivals, trunk or treats, and the traditional trick or treats, it’s important to keep in mind how the extra stimulation and treats affect our kids or the kids that come visit our homes or booths. (Not to mention the effects of sugar!). This article is intended to raise awareness about kids with special needs and to provide some tips for parents.

Children with sensory sensitivities like those associated with ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, or Sensory Processing Disorder can feel stressed at Halloween.

Parents want their children to have a positive, festive experience. With careful planning, preparation, and sensitivity in how you react, children with learning, behavioral, or sensory issues can enjoy this exciting time of year as well.

For those of you hosting Trick or Treat, a festival booth, or a Trunk or Treat, be accepting of all types of personalities and abilities that are behind the Halloween costume.

  • Children who struggle with poor fine motor skills may grab more than one piece of candy.
  • Children who take forever to pick out a piece of candy may have motor planning issues.
  • The child who does not say “trick or treat” or “thank you” may struggle with anxiety or may be non verbal.
  • The child who looks disappointed at the treats may have a food allergy.
  • And lastly the child who isn’t wearing a costume may have a sensory issue.

I am not suggesting that if your child has done one or some of the above examples that he or she may have a disorder. What I am suggesting is to show some grace and acceptance to everyone who rings your bell or visits your booth.

The Brain Balance Achievement Center gives fantastic Tips for Kids with Sensory Sensitivities. For example:
1) Giving your child a schedule of events can help children feel less anxiety.
2) Have a code word for your child to use if he or she feels overwhelmed and needs a break.
3) Before you leave, discuss how long you plan to stay and expectations for behavior.
4) Have your child practice wearing his costume BEFORE an event.
5) If you child has food sensitivities or allergies, plan ahead to offer alternatives like toys.

Playroom Lubbock Halloween tips

The Teal Pumpkin Project by The Food Allergy Research and Education raises awareness of food allergies and promotes inclusion of all trick-or-treaters. You can provide non-food treats for trick or treaters and paint a pumpkin teal to place in front of your home to indicate you have non-food treats available. Free signs are available to download at www.foodallergy.org.

Teal Pumpkin Project

Lubbock has wonderful opportunities to celebrate Fall and Halloween. I hope this article helps keep Halloween a fun, positive experience for all.

Kelly Martin, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of The Playroom Lubbock. She specializes in counseling and play therapy for children and adolescents.

 

The TEAL PUMPKIN PROJECT and the Teal Pumpkin Image are trademarks of Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE).

Lubbock's Hot List for a Family 4th 2016

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The Lubbock area offers an explosion of activities and events that families can enjoy together … making fun memories over the 4th of July holiday!

Fireworks sky kid

And because we’ve received some glorious rain, we can really introduce our kids to the type of Independence Day celebration that we remember as kids… including FIREWORKS!

To save you time as you plan your weekend, we’ve gathered a Hot List of 4th-of-July-inspired local events and activities for families.  Just click the event for more info and links.  See our complete listing of up-to-the-moment fun in our 4th of July Section.

Did we miss a favorite 4th of July family activity or event open to the public?  Add it here, on our calendar, or on our Facebook page.  See our complete Calendar for a Liberty Bell full of fun activities to choose from. Thanks for helping spread the word on all the great things that make Lubbock the very best spot on earth to raise our kids!

Happy Independence Day 2016!

FIREWORKS Shows! 

Saturday, July 2nd:
* Plainview Fireworks show at Regional Park, 9:45pm.

Sunday, July 3rd:
* Buffalo Springs Lake / Ransom Canyon Fireworks show, dusk.
* Fireworks at the Corn Maize.  Free show & dessert presented by Indiana Ave.Baptist Church, 7:30pm.

Monday, July 4th:
* Lubbock’s 4th on Broadway Fireworks show at Mackenzie Park, dusk.
* Snyder’s 4th of July Celebration Fireworks show, dusk
* Lamesa’s Independence Day Celebration, Fireworks show, dusk.

Tuesday, July 5th:
* Wolfforth’s 4th on the 5th Fireworks show, dusk.

Parades!

Saturday, July 2nd:
* Plainview’s Parade, starts at 10am downtown.

Monday, July 4th:
* Lubbock’s 4th on Broadway Parade, starts at 9am.  Remember this year there is a new route:  Starts DOWNTOWN on Avenue M. and Broadway Ave. The parade will travel east to Canyon Lake Drive, through Mackenzie Park, and end at Joyland.
* Snyder’s Parade, starts at 10am.
* Lamesa’s Parade, starts at 10am.

Festivals, Concerts & Carnivals!

Friday July 1st:
* An American Festival concert at First United Methodist Church Lubbock.  6:30-7:30pm.  Featuring the Westwinds Brass Band & church choirs.

Saturday July 2nd:
* Plainview’s 4th of July Celebration, 10am-7pm.  Red, White, & Moo Freedom Festival. Downtown.

Sunday July 3rd:
* Westwinds Brass Band Sunday Concert in the Park – Patriotic Salute, 8pm-9pm.  Wagner Park Gazebo at 26th and Flint Ave.

Sunday July 3rd & Monday July 4th:
* Snyder 4th of July Celebration.  Booths open Sunday 4-9pm & Monday 9am-9pm.

Monday, July 4th:
* Lubbock’s 4th on Broadway at Mackenzie Park.  The state’s largest FREE 4th of July Festival and this year continues a new era at Mackenzie Park with grass and trees and water and the park’s beautiful venue!  You can even pitch a tent for the kids to take a nap during the day!

  • $5 parking at the Fairgrounds and Canyon Lakes: Free parking at 19th & Canyon Lakes. Shuttles to all parking start at 7:30am till after the fireworks.
  • 7:30am – 5K & 1-mile Yankee Doodle Dash starts at Cesar Chavez Dr. & Canyon Lake Road.  
  • 8:30am – Sparkler Sprint for kids 6-12 (free and no pre-registration needed) at Cesar Chavez Dr. & Canyon Lake Road.  
  • 9am – Parade!  NOTE: Parade Route Change – Parade will now begin at Avenue M. and Broadway Ave. The parade will travel east to Canyon Lake Drive, through Mackenzie Park, and end at Joyland.
  • 8am-5pm – Picnic in the Park!  7 music stages (starting at 10:30am) and over 50 vendors selling yummy festive foods.
  • 11am-8pm – Kids Area!  Located right next to the Kids Performance Stage and will include activities for the whole family!  Arts & Crafts, Carnival Games, Inflatables, Rock Wall, Spider Wall, Water Slides, Dunk Tank, Face Painting, Music, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Bouncers and Much More! No more playing on hot asphalt for the kids area like in years past!
  • 7:30pm – Evening Concert with the Youth Orchestra of Lubbock.
  • Dusk – Fireworks!

* Lamesa’s Independence Day Celebration, 9am-10pm.
* Slaton’s 4th of July Festival, 10am-3pm.  Slaton Park.

Tuesday, July 5th:
* Wolfforth’s 4th on the 5th Celebration, 6pm-10:30pm.

Fun Runs!shutterstock_78496849_flag

Saturday, July 2nd:
* Firecracker Run in Brownfield.  1 mile, 3 mile and 10 mile races.  7:40-10:30am.  Includes an Elementary Fun Run for Ages 4-12.

Monday, July 4th:
* Yankee Doodle Dash (5K and 1 Mile) and Sparkler Sprint (100 Yard Dash – free for kids 6-12). Lubbock.  Mackenzie Park.  7:30 & 8:30am.

* 5K Splash Dash in Lamesa.  South 9th.  9am signup.  10:30-11:30am race.

 

Above all, enjoy this wonderful time of year with the kids and STAY SAFE!

 


Updated June 29, 2016.

Easter Week Hunt Guide 2016

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Searching for Easter hunts

Looking for all the fun events in the Lubbock area for kids and families to enjoy over the Easter holiday weekend?  So have we! … and we’ve gathered them all in our Ultimate Easter section found on LubbockForKids.com.  Here are our tops picks…  Have we left off your favorite?  Share it with us here, add it to our Calendar, or share it with us on Facebook.  Be sure to check our calendar frequently… we’re receiving more info on more hunts every day!

Community Easter Egg Hunts 

EGGstravaganzas at area churches  

These aren’t your everyday, old fashioned church Easter Egg Hunts!  These are EXTRAVAGANZAs!… all free, and many include a fair-like atmosphere with bounce houses, door prizes, trains, or music.

Be sure to check with your neighborhood church too… even if they are not organizing a big event, many are offering church-wide Easter hunts and programs open to all guests!

Selfies with the Easter Bunny  

Better catch him Saturday… he’s got a really busy schedule Sunday!

Do you know of other area Easter events?  Share them with us here!

 

2015 Lubbock Area Holiday Performing Arts Guide for Kids & Families

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FaLaLa Slide

Fa La La La Lubbock!  Take a holiday season time-out to enjoy the Fine Arts boom we enjoy in the Lubbock area… where holiday-themed performances in theatre, dance, music, and arts abound!

Holiday concerts are frequently a child’s first experience in a concert hall… a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the entire family’s appreciation and interest in the arts. And almost all are family-friendly and affordable!  Whether it’s the majesty of the full symphony orchestra or the acoustic sounds of the season in a neighborhood church, take a breath and enjoy the richness that the season brings!  So many opportunities to share old favorites or create new holiday arts traditions that our kids will introduce to their own families!

Note:  Events are in order by opening date and include links for ticket information.  And check our super-sized, searchable Sights and Sounds of the Season section for dozens more ideas for winter fun – search by child’s age, interests and dates!

“Coney Island Christmas” presented by Lubbock Community Theatre.
Dec. 3-6 and 10-13 @ The Lubbock Community Theatre (42nd & Boston).
Thurs, Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Rated G. $10 Child / $15 Adult.
A holiday show for people of all ages and all faiths, CONEY ISLAND CHRISTMAS introduces us to Shirley Abramowitz, a young Jewish girl who (much to her immigrant parents’ exasperation) is cast as Jesus in the school’s Christmas pageant. As Shirley, now much older, recounts the memorable story to her great-granddaughter.  Tickets available online.

“A Christmas Story” presented by Children and Adults Theatrical Studios (CATS Playhouse).
Fri.12/4, Sat.12/5 & Sun. 12/6 and Fri. 12/11 & Sun.12/13 @ CATS Playhouse
2257 34th St.
Friday & Saturday performances are at 7:30pm. Sunday performances are at 2:30pm. Adults $10, Students/Seniors $7. Purchase tickets online.
Humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Directed by Lisa Hernandez.

The Nutcracker Ballet – performed by Ballet Lubbock.
Thurs. 12/10 – Sun. 12/13.
All performances are @ the Civic Center Theatre.
It’s not Christmas until you’ve seen The Nutcracker!  Lubbock’s favorite holiday tradition. Tickets available through Select-a-seat and through the Ballet Lubbock website.

The Nutcracker presented by Ballet Lubbock

Ballet Lubbock’s ‘The Nutcracker’ (Facebook)

“Cactus Family Christmas” Concert.
Sat. 12/5 & 12/12; Thurs. 12/17; Tues. 12/22 & Wed. 12/23 @ 7:30pm.
All performances are at The Cactus Theater.
$15 / child (9 & under), $25 / ages 10 & up.
Continuing the Cactus tradition…  Join the Cactus stars, along with our newest faces from 2015, as they “don” the stage for a spectacular Christmas celebration presenting traditional holiday classics as well as contemporary favorites.  These concerts always sell out, so get your tickets early!  Call 806-762-3233 or go online for tickets.

Annual Caprock Celtic Christmas Concert.
Sat. 12/12 from 7-9pm: Annual Caprock Celtic Christmas concert @ the Maedgen Theater at Texas Tech. Students (with ID) free. Adults $10.50. Seniors $4.50.
Singers, players, dancers, storytellers, and more gather to perform traditional repertoires of the session, instrumental dance tunes and slow airs, and much more. For tickets call: 770-2000 or purchase online.

Flying J Wranglers’ Western Christmas Concert.
Sun. 12/13 @ the Cactus Theater.  $25.
The Flying J Wranglers from Ruidoso, NM and the Cactus Theater proudly bring you the annual Flying J Wranglers’ Western Christmas.  A holiday show that features rich melodious western yodeling, vocals, fiddle and guitars in a program of tradition favorites and new and classic western/cowboy Christmas songs, instrumentals and homespun comedy.  For a really special holiday treat, catch the lighthearted antics of the Wranglers this holiday season. Call 806-762-3233 or go online for tickets.

The Lubbock Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Chamber Concert.
Tues. 12/15, 7:30pm @ St. John’s United Methodist Church (University & 15th Street).
Student $10, Adult $20.
Lubbock’s favorite annual holiday concert is sure to become your new tradition. Five of the finest brass musicians in North America invite you to join them in celebrating the season at this entertaining and informative evening. Featured twice on Performance Today, an NPR syndicated broadcast, the LSO Brass Quintet will definitely put you in the holiday spirit. This narrated performance features holiday selections from a variety of periods and styles.  Bring your family members and friends to this very special night of seasonal music. Tickets available through Select-A-Seat and online.

Annual Dean Killion Memorial Scholarship Concert.
Tues. 12/15 @ 7:30pm (West doors open at 7pm).
Admission is FREE; however, donations will be accepted for the Killion Scholarship Fund.
The Westwinds Brass Band Presents its Annual Dean Killion Memorial Scholarship Concert @ the Texas Tech Museum in the Helen DeVitt Jones Auditorium! . Enjoy traditional brass band favorites, marches, overtures, music from Broadway musicals, and a wide variety of sacred and secular Christmas music.

“Cactus Kids Christmas Celebration” Concert.
Sun. & Mon. 12/20 & 12/21, 7:30pm @ The Cactus Theater.
$15 / child (9 & under), $25 / ages 10 & up.
If you have never seen a Cactus Kids Christmas Concert, you are in for a real treat!  This is not just your average kid show – these are the best of the best from Terri Caldwell’s Music program.  Kids from this program have appeared on national television programs such as “America’s Got Talent” and the “X Factor.”  You will be blown away by the talent as they are backed by “The Lubbock Texas Rhythm Machine” in this full blown professional show!  Bring your entire family for a wonderful night at the “Cactus Kids Christmas Celebration.”   Call 806-762-3233 or go online for tickets.

 

Originally appeared in 2013.  Updated for 2015

 

 

The Top Santa Sightings in & around Lubbock 2015

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“Wish I knew all the places I can take the kids to see Santa this year”

Looking for Santa? Spread the word... Santa and all the great events & activities for kids during the holidays can be found on LubbockForKids.com!

Looking for Santa? Spread the word… Santa and all the great events & activities for kids during the holidays can be found on LubbockForKids.com!

Done!   One thing you can already mark off your Holiday to-do list:  Find Santa!

It’s a present for all of us – the gift of saving time!  In today’s blog we wanted to share some of the opportunities that our kids have in the Lubbock area to see Santa… so great to be a kid in the Hub!

Santa has many more visits on his schedule, so check our Santa Sightings section for up-to-the minute listings.  You know… we are the official keeper of Santa’s schedule in the Lubbock area… it’s true!

What a wonderful place we live in … our community provides so many opportunities to create family memories and enjoy the fun of the season!

Where oh where can we find Santa on the South Plains?

At Breakfast with Santa events… (reservations required for most)

Fri 11/20 and Sat. 11/21: Holiday Happening @ the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center.  Space is limited.

Sat. 12/5: The Village Shopping Center @ Zio’s (82nd & Quaker).  (Sold out).

Sat. 12/5:  Breakfast with Santa at Maxey Community Center.  $10/person.  Space is limited.

Sat. 12/5 starting at 9am @ South Plains Mall Grand Court: Polar Express Weekend Extravaganza Private Breakfast (free!) with Santa & “Mall Express Train’ ($3) to Premiere Cinema to see “The Polar Express” movie. Movie starts at 10:30am.  $3 mall train ride. $6 movie (purchase tickets online – sure to sellout!).  Activities FREE. Candy cane & cookie decorating at Premiere. Part of the Polar Express Weekend Extravaganza benefiting Literacy Lubbock.

At Tree-Lighting Events…

Tues 12/1:  The Carol of Lights ceremony @ Texas Tech.  Join Santa & Raider Red for cookies starting at 5pm at the Frazier Pavilion

Tues 12/1:  SPC Christmas Tree Lighting & Carriage Rides with Santa @ South Plains College in Levelland.

Fri. 12/11 & Sat. 12/12 from 6 to 9pm: Candlelight at the Ranch @ the National Ranching Heritage Center.  Special appearance by Santa till 9pm each night in the NRHC main gallery!

Santa at the National Ranching Heritage Center's Candlelight at the Ranch

Children will have an opportunity to visit with Santa at the National Ranching Heritage Center from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 11-12 during the 37th Annual Candlelight at the Ranch.

At Parades…

Thurs. 12/3:

Levelland Christmas on the Square & Lighted Christmas Parade @ 5:30pm.

Plainview Christmas Parade on Broadway @ 6pm.

Sat. 12/5:

Post City Trade Days & Christmas Parade @ 6pm.

Sat. 12/12:

Miracles Christmas Parade on 34th Street in Lubbock @ 6pm.

With Pets…

Mondays from 6-8pm till Christmas:  Pet Photos with Santa @ South Plains Mall.  A special time for your furry friends to visit Santa!  (Cats and Dogs only, in carriers or on leashes please).

Sat. 11/28 & 12/5 from 11am-4pm and Sun. 11/29 & 12/6 from 1-4pm:
Santa Paws Photos @ KK’s Corner Mall.  $10.  Professionally photographed by Robert Cason.
Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of West Texas

Sat. 12/12: Santa Paws @ Hodges Community Center (40th & University) from 9am-1pm.
Photos available for purchase or bring your camera!

On Trains…(reservations suggested)

On the Polar Express!   Departures begin Nov. 21 and end Dec. 26.  Wolfforth depot.

At Carnivals…

Sat. 12/5:  Christmas Carnival @ Mae Simmons Community Center.  2-4pm.

Sat. 12/12:  Holiday Wonderland @ The Science Spectrum.  10am-3pm.

Sun. 12/20:  Pancho Clos @ Maggie Trejo Supercenter (32nd & Amherst).  2-5pm.

Holiday Wonderland at The Science Spectrum

Holiday Wonderland at The Science Spectrum

Through the Season…

South Plains Mall:  11/14 – 12/24.  Photos available for purchase.

Holland Gardens:  Saturdays & Sundays from 1-4pm (free!) now through Christmas.
(50th & Memphis)

Santa’s Land Drive Thru Park in Tahoka (free!):  Open November 26 (Thanksgiving!), 27,28,29 and December 4,5,6,11,12,13,18,19,20,21,22,23,24 and light will be on 25, 26 & 27.

Kingsgate Shopping Center:  Saturdays Thanksgiving – 12/20 (82nd & Quaker).
Also don’t miss their complimentary carriage rides Friday – Sunday evenings through Christmas Eve!
Bring a coat to donate to their Coat Drive!

Santa Land @ Mackenzie Park:  Nightly 12/10 – 12/23 from 6-10pm.
Opening Ceremony:  Tues. 12/10 @ 6pm.  Help welcome Santa & Mrs. Claus from the North Pole & turn on the lights to the tree and winter village!

And you can help Santa…. If you have him scheduled to be at an event open to the public – or if you know of any great event or activity for our kids – just add the listing to LubbockForKids.com or comment here on our blog to help spread the word!

This article was originally published in 2013 and updated for 2015.

 

Autumn with Kids ... Livin' in the Moment!

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What is it about autumn that makes it such a magical time of transition… a time we all remember from when we were kids ourselves?  Is it the cooler days, nights, colors of the trees, smells… like caramel apples, fall festivals, cake walks, the fair, burning jack-o-lanterns?  Maybe because it’s the perfect time for families – before the holiday craziness.  Maybe it’s because now that we’re parents, we see the changing seasons as a reminder that our little ones are not as little as they were at the beginning of the summer… we see how they change in all those pictures we take every year at the pumpkin patch and at The Corn Maize  standing next to the height marker. We see how unique each season is especially seeing it through the eyes of our kids. We realize how we as parents are fortunate to absorb at least a smidge of the innocence and clarity and enthusiasm with which our kids embrace each fall event and activity. Pure joy!

A-Maizing how they grow!

A-Maizing how they grow!

Maybe that’s it… autumn is a time that offers so many opportunities for us to be kids with our kids.  Livin’ in the moment.  Maybe it’s a time when even those of us who are missing the “creativity gene” can still decorate with our kids and have fun and make someone smile!  Come on, let’s all give it a try!

Lubbock rocks - and rolls! - with creativity!

Lubbock rocks – and rolls! – with creativity!

Maybe that’s why we’re so excited to participate in several area fall events! … including the Pumpkin Carving Workshop @ the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum and the Pumpkin Trail!

Pumpkin Trail 2013

Pumpkin Trail

So go ahead… dive in and enjoy this gorgeous Lubbock fall weather by taking in some of the local events… pick one you’ve never been to before!  We’ll try to help by making it easy to find all the fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and activities in the area – many of which are free or almost free (another reason we love autumn!).   Always check LubbockForKids.com for the latest events & activities and our Facebook page too for fun picks.  Thanks for submitting your fall festivals and events to our calendar – keep ‘em coming! –  and we’ll keep adding everything we can dig up too (sorry, just had to do it!).

Thanks for reading! … and for joining us as we embrace and celebrate everything kidful in Lubbock and beyond!  Let us know: is there a local fall tradition or event that was your favorite as a child that you are now sharing with your own children?

Cotton n kids

Family Bucket List - 2015 Summer Fun in the Hub!

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Summer Bucket 2014


It’s our LubbockForKids.com 2015 Summer Fun Family Bucket List!
All fun, all local, many free, and ALL what summer is all about!
Click each activity for details

  * Cool it a Summer Movie Matinee         * Go to an Amusement Park

 * Explore some Kids Eat Free deals         * Take in a Summer Concert 

 * Sign up for a Summer Camp         * Visit a Farmers’ Market 

 * Enjoy a Vacation Bible School event         * Take a Day Trip 

 * Visit a New Playground        * Explore a Museum

 * Play in the Water        * See Fireworks

For tons more Lubbock-area boredom-buster ideas throughout the summer, visit www.LubbockForKids.com

updated 4/17/2015

shutterstock_185327138_kids in trunk

Top Dad-ventures: Father's Day around the Hub

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Carving out some special time with Dad is what it’s all about for Father’s Day.  And our amazing Lubbock-area dads deserve to celebrate their day just the way they want… Hungry-man breakfast? CHECK.  Sleeping in? CHECK.  Easy-to-find fun stuff to do together?  DOUBLE-CHECK…  thanks to our double-stuffed  Father’s Day Dad-venture section!

Father's Day in Lubbock

So whether Dad loves the great outdoors or the hustle and bustle of the city, we know his greatest wish is to spend more time with his little buckaroos, and our guide can help give you some ideas to start the adventure.  But most of all, be sure to fill his day with love, and laughter, and hugs, and everything that makes him smile. 

Take in a Show Together

Father’s Day Weekend offers a bevy of performances – live and cinematic – that are perfect for dads to enjoy with children of any age:

—>  The Musical “13″ performed by the Lubbock Community Theatre.  Father’s Day Special:  dads who attend with their kids or wives get in FREE on Father’s Day!

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—>  Shrek performed by Lubbock Moonlight Musicals 8pm Friday and Saturday night at the Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre.

Shrek 8x10
—>  Beauty and the Beast Jr.  performed by Lubbock Moonlight Musicals’ Moonlight Children’s Theatre at 10am Saturday morning at the Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre.  Beauty and the Beast Jr.

—>  Parties celebrating the premier of Disney’s new movie “Inside Out” at Premiere Cinema and also at Alamo Drafthouse Saturday.
—>  The Juneteen Celebration Parade and Festival Saturday.
—>  The West Winds Brass Band Performance Sunday evening at Wagner Park.

Create Together

—>  Creating (and eating!) cookie works-of-art Friday at the Celebrate Dad event at Cookies By Design.
—>  Painting a masterpiece together at the Art & Company Father’s Day canvas class Saturday.
—>  Enjoying fun kid-friendly and teen-friendly sessions at Painting with a Twist Saturday & Sunday.
—>  Creating a priceless treasure together Saturday at the Mud Room or Clay Cafe.  Handprints are always a winner!
—>  Making a cool Father’s Day Card at Chick-fil-A Raider Park‘s Craft & Game morning Saturday.

Eat Together

Several places are offering discounts for Dad Sunday including Beef ‘O’ Brady’s where he eats FREE and also Hurricane Grill where he eats FREE!

Road Trip!

—>  The Abilene Zoo is offering free admittance for Dad on Sunday, and the Tahoka Centennial Celebration Saturday will be fun for everyone (you KNOW dad could win the pie eating or watermelon contest!).
—>  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose is also having a special Father’s Day Sunset Safari Dinner and Tour Saturday (which also happens to be National Giraffe Day!).
—>  Or, if you feel like a road trip but don’t have the time, how about a “backyard campout” at the local KOA Campground where they offer a special kids camp free deal on Father’s Day weekend (and did you know they have an indoor pool?).
—> Enjoy a pre-historic road trip by joining the Night Hike at the Lubbock Lake Landmark Saturday evening at dusk and welcome the beautiful West Texas evening together!

Consider gifts that bring everyone together long after Father’s Day

Great gift ideas include:
—>  a season pass to the summer Moonlight Musicals… all are perfect for families.

2015 Season
—>  Critterfest Tickets to use next weekend at the Science Spectrum.  critterfest image square
—>  a yearly pass to the Science Spectrum Museum.
—>  a season pass to Lubbock Water Rampage.
—>  a multi-pass to Joyland Amusement Park.
—>  jump pass to Jump N Jungle

Check our full Calendar for a complete list of events found over the Father’s Day weekend!

Wishing all the incredible dads and men out there special memories with your amazing kids, whether you are able to spend time together this weekend or in the future!

Happy Father’s Day!