Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

Free Things to Do with Philly Kids in December

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Thu, 11/29/2018 - 3:08pm

Photo of Macy’s Christmas Light Show by J. Fusco courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

With all the expenses that December brings, free fun offered throughout the Delaware Valley comes as a welcomed gift to Philly parents. Whether your kids are mesmerized by watching a twinkling light show, fascinated by train garden displays, or excited by listening to the marching bands at a parade, there is something for everyone. We have rounded up options that are ongoing as well as many one time opportunities, perfect to get your family in the spirit of the season. So, read on to discover all the free events happening this month.

Hanukkah Events and Menorah Lightings for Philadelphia Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Mon, 11/26/2018 - 5:35pm

Photo courtesy of National Museum of American Jewish History

Hanukkah begins on December 2 and continues until December 10 this year. During these eight nights known as The Jewish Festival of Lights, Philly families can celebrate throughout the Delaware Valley at many fantastic events that can be found in our events calendar. From attending menorah lighting ceremonies and listening to stories to making crafts and spinning the dreidel, everyone in the family can enjoy these special traditions while making lasting memories. We've rounded up some of our favorite activities so read on for ideas to incorporate into your family's calendar.

18 Things to Do Before Philly Kids Turn 18 in the Delaware Valley

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 10/14/2018 - 10:15am

Photo of Longwood Garden's Indoor Children's Garden by the author

Celebrating a child's birthday can be an emotional one for parents. After all, each birthday celebrates one more step towards growing up. Before you know it, your kiddo is 18! Wait, didn't I just bring this baby home from the hospital? With only 18 birthdays before being considered an adult, there are certain experiences in and around the Delaware Valley every Philly kid should have. This way, when they fly from the nest, they can say, "Yeah, I've done that. I'm from Philadelphia."

Our picks are listed in no particular order. However some clearly are geared toward a younger set while others have a broader appeal to kids of varying ages. Read on to see how many of our 18 must dos your child has visited.

Grandparents' Day in Philly: Time to Send the Kids to Grandma's

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sat, 09/01/2018 - 10:10am

Whether you call them Grandma, Granddad, Nana, or Poppop, grandparents add an enormous amount of value to the life of a child. They're the best babysitters, treat sharers, spoilers, and we love them so. And what better excuse than Grandparents Day (September 9) to send the kids out for some fun with their grands...and get some time to yourself! To help you and the extended family out, we've rounded up some wonderful ways to celebrate grandparents. From sporting events to nature excursions, there is something for everyone. Keep reading to discover all the ways to show Mom Mom and Pop how much you love them this Grandparents Day. So, #DoSomethingGrand, #TakeAGrandie and make #GrandparentsDay special for the loved ones in your family.

Free (or Discounted) Fun for Philly Moms to Celebrate Mother's Day

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 05/04/2018 - 2:49pm

Show your mama some love this Mother's Day with the best freebies (or deeply discounted options) rounded up by the Mommy Poppins Philadelphia crew. After all, Philly moms do so much for their families. They chauffeur the kids to music lessons, art classes, and swim practices. They pack healthy lunches, shop for clothes, help with homework, and even plan family vacations. Make Mom and your budget happy with our top picks, and check out our events calendar for more Mother's Day weekend ideas.

27 Reasons for Families To Visit Wilmington, Delaware

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 04/06/2018 - 4:55pm

There is so much to see and do in Wilmington, Delaware. And with its proximity to Philadelphia, families can consider making a day trip or a weekend stay. A straight shot down I-95 (and even accessible by Amtrak), this family-friendly city is a delight for parents and kids alike. From sites along the Riverwalk to museums and outdoor adventures, Wilmington will have you coming back for more. Here is our roundup of the top 27 things to do as a family in Wilmington.

Still not sure where to take your next day trip? Check out our city guides for more ideas!

23 Spring Festivals, Fairs, and Carnivals for Philly Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Thu, 03/22/2018 - 9:02am

Spring is here and so is festival season. Philly families look forward to a springtime season filled with festivals, fairs, and carnivals. Whether you're in the city or the 'burbs, it is definitely worthwhile to put some of these events on your family's calendar. The variety is remarkable- from science to art, from nature to culture, from food to fitness, there is truly something for everyone. Bad weather can impact some of these outdoor events so be sure to check directly with the venue if the weather seems questionable.

For more fun things to do this season, check out our Spring Fun Guide for Philly Families. Now, browse through our list below and get ready for a great spring!

Easter Egg Hunts Around the Philadelphia Area

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/16/2018 - 6:25pm

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping down the bunny trail.... As Peter Cottontail makes his way to the Delaware Valley, Philly kids should find their favorite basket and get ready to search high and low for eggs at these local Easter egg hunts. Most of these egg hunts are outdoors. In the event of questionable weather, please be sure to check directly with the organizers to see if they have a rain date (all of our event listings link to official websites). Also, make sure to click through to our events calendar for exact times since many hunts have multiple time frames based on age.

The majority of these egg hunts are FREE and are a great way to welcome spring and create Easter traditions with your kids. Be sure to also check our Easter Bunny Express post for info on special holiday train rides and our Easter Fun at Farms post featuring plenty of photo ops, animal visits, and outdoor fun.