When you have young children, it is only a matter of time before red roses, champagne, and fancy menus are replaced by balloons, pink lemonade, and heart-shaped lollipops on Valentine's Day. This, however, doesn’t mean you have to stay in watching Nick Jr. specials. Many Valentine-themed activities are scheduled to take place in the Hartford area. Whatever you decide, there are ample opportunities to celebrate love on Valentine's Day. If you decide to keep the celebration at home, check out this fun Valentine's craft perfect for little ones.

Going out to eat should not be stressful, but when someone in your family has a food sensitivity or even worse, allergy, it can feel like more of a chore than a pleasant experience.
This list includes places to grab food in Connecticut that are both kid and allergy friendly. We’ve also made special note of those that are 100% gluten-free or have a dedicated fryer to prevent cross-contamination. With a little planning, you should be able to find a restaurant that everyone in your family can enjoy! Note: always speak up about your allergies right away to make sure an establishment can cater to your needs.

There's something nostalgic about skating outdoors, and for many of us it bring back childhood memories of impromptu skates on local ponds frozen solid in the dead of winter. If you're seeking such an adventure, check out the outdoor rink (frozen pond) at Winding Trails, a peaceful setting in the Hartford area.There are times, however, when a climate-controlled environment is preferred. At Veterans Memorial Ice Skating Rink in West Hartford, you can skate during rain, shine, or snow. Regular resurfacing with a zamboni keeps the ice in tip-top condition. And Veterans is open year-round, so if you’ve been too busy with other winter activities -- hitting the Hartford area’s best sledding hills, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing -- to lace up your skates before everything thaws, the ice at Veterans will be as pristine in June as it is in January. Be sure to check out our Skiing, Snowboarding, and Snow Sport Guide for additional winter activity suggestions in New England. 

Halloween is around the corner now. While you field the ever-changing costume ideas over the next few weeks, we've rounded up some family fun in the Hartford area. Whether you're looking for a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating or you who simply can’t get enough Halloween fun, here are some day and nighttime trick-or-treat options on and around Halloween. If this still isn't enough to satisfy your holiday appetite, check out our Halloween and Fall Fun Guide for more great ideas.

The Easter Bunny is coming and Spring is on it's way!  Can't wait to get your little bunnies outside to look for eggs?  The wait is coming to an end and  below we have listed great places to take your kids to have some Easter fun in Central CT! If you don't mind the drive, check out the Easter events we've rounded up in Fairfield County.

Yoga for babies can be a powerful way for caregivers to strengthen their bond with their infant while simultaneously promoting motor, social and emotional skills. For older kids, yoga helps them develop strength, flexibility, balance, body awareness and focus. An early introduction to yoga paves the way for a life of healthy habits.These Hartford area studios will help you and your little yogi find your moment of Zen. Be sure to check out our complete guide to classes in Connecticut. Namaste! 

While many families spend Christmas Day making obligatory trips to the relatives, plenty of others may not have family nearby, do not celebrate Christmas, or may simply need an escape from crazy Aunt Brenda. If you fall into any of the latter camps, read on for some ideas on ways to spend Christmas day out of your house in the Hartford area.

Go to the Movies

East Haddam, a town in southeastern Connecticut that is rich in natural scenery and history, is a fabulous destination for a day trip and there is no better time to visit than the fall. Located along the Connecticut River, most of its charms are outside, so be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring a camera because there will be some spectacular fall foliage photo-ops. You might have to plan two day trips, however, to fit everything in.