4th of July Restaurant Deals

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BAHAMA BREEZE

Bahama Breeze locations will be open during regular hours on the 4th. The chain will be serving three new Caribbean-inspired Hurricane cocktails during the holiday, which are: the Island Breeze, Tropical Storm, and Bahama Blast.

BOB EVANS

All Bob Evans locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the 4th of July. The chain is currently promoting its Pick 2 Combos that feature more than 100 possibilities and start at just $5.99.

BONEFISH GRILL

The restaurant is offering a special lobster and shrimp roll as an entrée or family bundle that serves up to five and comes with a side, cookies, and bread (through July 5). Other family bundles include Bang Bang shrimp tacos, chicken tacos, and grilled shrimp, chicken, or salmon. Check with your local restaurant for reopening status and hours.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS

Enjoy a variety of appetizers and a beer (or two!) at Buffalo Wild Wings. All locations will stay open on the 4th.

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY

Indulge in all the cheesecake your heart desires. All restaurants will be be operating under normal hours.

CRACKER BARREL

If you're craving some comfort food, Cracker Barrel has you covered. All 660 locations will be open during regular business hours.

DENNY'S

No matter what time your Denny's cravings hit, the restaurant has you covered. Most locations will be open during normal hours.

FIREHOUSE SUBS

The sandwich chain is offering 1,776 bonus points to Firehouse Subs Rewards members who make a purchase on July 4.

IHOP

If a stack of fluffy pancakes is calling your name on July 4th, you know where to go! All IHOP restaurants will be open during its normal hours. The restaurant recently revamped its menu, with new "breakFEAST" items including crepes and pancakes, maple chicken served with hashbrowns and pancakes, and the crème brûlée pancake combo.

OLIVE GARDEN

Pass the breadsticks, please! All Olive Garden locations will have normal operating hours on the 4th of July.

RED LOBSTER

In the mood for some seafood? Head over to your local Red Lobster. All restaurants will be open during normal hours on the 4th.

RUTH'S CHRIS

All Ruth's Chris's locations will be operating under usual hours.

STARBUCKS

Select Starbucks locations will stay open for the 4th, so contact your local store ahead of time to double check.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Although Texas Roadhouse restaurants will be open, hours vary by location, so check your local spot before you head out.

YARD HOUSE

All Yard House locations nationwide will be open during regular hours on the 4th of July. Stop in during happy hour to enjoy a variety of specials.

15+ Free National Summer Programs For Kids

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Camp Caribu

 

Now is the time to talk to our kids about what it means to be anti-racist, and the Caribu app is offering one way to facilitate these conversations. On June 8, they’re launching Camp Caribu, a free summer reading program with 100 days of activities, featured books and themed reading categories. The first theme will be “Courageous Conversations: Anti-Racism,” and they’ll be adding additional books about anti-racism throughout the summer.

Cost: Free for summer 2020

Online: caribu.com

 

The Be Kind American Adventure

 

Send your kids on a virtual field trip with The Be Kind People Project. Over five weeks of virtual classes, they’ll get to explore ten American landmarks through interactive videos, hands-on projects, music, recipes and virtual souvenirs. The classes offer a fun approach to project-based learning with a focus on kindness and youth development.

Cost: $65/household (15 classes)

Online: thebekindpeopleproject.org/be-kind-american-adventure/

 

Camp Tinkergarten

 

From the popular hands-on outdoor learning program for kids comes a free, eight-week summer course you can do at home. Filled with all sorts of fun like a printable "trail map," reading summer list, songs and rituals for camp, plus articles and resources for parents, each week focuses on a different core Tinkergarten skill: persistence, empathy, creativity, focus and more. It officially kicks off on Jun. 20th.

Cost: Free

Online: tinkergarten.com/camp 

 

photo: Pexels

Met Opera Global Camp

 

An incredible opportunity from the Met Opera, this free, eight-week online summer camp offers music learning and exploration and includes a featured opera each week from the Met's digital library. Each opera comes with hands-on creative projects, instruction from teaching artists and music educators and even a chance to speak with Met artists. The camp runs from Jun. 15-Aug 7.

There are two age groups: 3rd-6th graders and 7th-12th graders, it's five days a week and many of the events happen live. Among the iconic operas to be featured are Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, Dvořák’s Rusalka, and Mozart’s Così fan tutte.

Cost: Free

Online: metopera.org/GlobalSummerCamp

 

photo: iStock

Raddish Kids

 

If your kiddo is interested in cooking, you’ve got to check out Raddish Kids’ virtual cooking camp. Each week covers a different theme, from Around the World to Bake Shop. The camps are designed for kids ages 8 to 13 and run daily for one week each. Follow their page on Outschool to be notified when you can sign up; you can also check out their recorded one-time classes in the meantime.

Cost: $15/one-time class

Online: raddishkids.com/pages/summer

Camp Wonderopolis

 

Keep your kids learning (and having a great time) this summer with Camp Wonderopolis, a great free program that incorporates science, music, reading comprehension and more. Choose from themes including space travel, the Olympics and city building.

Cost: Free

Online: camp.wonderopolis.org

 

photo: stem.T4L via Unsplash

Varsity Tutors

 

Get learning time in this summer with Varsity Tutors’ weeklong, totally free virtual summer camps. Running June through August, kids can sign up to make their own LEGO movie, crack detective cases and create their own worlds in Minecraft. Space is limited, so grab your spot soon.

Cost: Free

Online: varsitytutors.com/virtual-summer-camps

 

photo: Xavi Cabrera via Unsplash

Family Maker Camp

 

Get your whole crew involved with Family Maker Camp—it’s a great way to flex your imagination and create something new. Join in on one of their live streams or pick something that sounds interesting out of their project library. Before you know it, you’ll have built a hovercraft or a musical instrument.

Cost: Free

Online: makercamp.com

 

photo: Annie Spratt via Unsplash

MarcoPolo World School

 

Keep the summer boredom away with this fun digital learning platform. Kids ages three to seven can learn STEAM concepts while watching videos and participating in interactive online activities. You can try it out with a 30-day free trial; after that, it’s $9.99 a month.

Cost: $9.99/month

Online: marcopololearning.com

 

MOCA Art Camp

 

MOCA North Miami is offering a virtual contemporary art experience with free Virtual Art Camps this summer. Kids ages six to 13 will be introduced to mixed media, painting, drawing and textile arts during Zoom workshops, and their final projects will be featured in a virtual exhibition on MOCA’s website. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up while you still can!

Cost: Free

Online: mocanomi.org/2020/05/virtual-summer-art-camps/

 

photo: August de Richelieu via Pexels

Numerade

 

If you’re worried about getting your middle or high school kids up to speed in the new school year, Numerade has a fabulous (and free) solution. They’re offering free STEM summer camps covering SAT test prep, precalculus, physics and more. 

Cost: Free

Online: numerade.com/summer-camp

 

photo: Gigi’s Playhouse

Gigi’s At Home

 

With the onset of Covid-19, GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers were forced to temporarily close, but they were able to bring a ton of content to their website tailored for families with Down Syndrome. Browse more than 20 programs for all ages, covering everything from math to cooking. 

Cost: Free

Online: gigisplayhouse.org/gigisathome/

 

photo: OshKosh

Camp OshKosh

 

Iconic brand OshKosh will launch a virtual summer program kids can access from home. They'll be your camp director and guide activities that'll keep kids occupied and bring up classic camp memories for parents, too. Ideal for kids seven and up, Camp OshKosh will keep them active, inspired and having fun this summer. This fun program will launch on June 15th, and you'll be able to find more details here on that date. 

 

photo: courtesy Marathon Kids

Walk & Talk from Marathon Kids

 

Research shows that kids connect when they're participating in an activity with you whether it's cooking, playing outside or being creative. Non-profit organization Marathon Kids, which works to ignite the joy of physical activity in kids, is launching a free summer program in hopes of making this easier for parents. Simply walk a mile and talk while doing it. Each day you'll receive a new prompt, there's a special mileage tracker, and by the end, you'll have walked the length of a marathon (26 miles) while getting to know your child better. 

Cost: Free 

Get registered and get your daily prompts here. 

 

photo: Josh Applegate via Unsplash

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program

 

If you need an incentive to get the kids to go screen-free every once in a while, check out the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Download a reading journal from the Barnes & Noble website, then have your little bookworm log each book as it’s completed. Once they’ve read eight books, bring the completed journal to your local Barnes & Noble between July 1 and Aug. 31 to get a free book.*** Score!

Cost: Free

Online: barnesandnoble.com/b/summer-reading/_/N-rs9

***Due to COVID-19, Check with your local store for updates on in-store activities.

 

LEGO Mini Builds & Magazine

 

Every month this summer, download the free instructions to a new LEGO mini build. In addition, your master builder can receive a free magazine as part of the LEGO life program. There are stories, activities and news updates for kids ages 5-9.

Cost: Free

Online: shop.lego.com/minibuilds

 

photo: courtesy Microsoft

Microsoft Kids Camp

 

Microsoft normally offers free kids camp at their stores during the summer, but they've moved online for now. Kids can sign up for free online workshops to tour the Smithsonian, plan a virtual road trip, put their Minecraft skills to the test and more. Ages range from 6-14, and while the camps are free, advance registration is required.

Cost: Free

Online: microsoft.com/store/eventsforkids

 

photo: Brain Chase

Brain Chase

 

Give your kids an exciting and engaging adventure this summer by joining forces with Mae Merriweather from the Grayson Academy of Antiquities. Starting on Jun. 1, 2020, your tiny treasure hunter can join other participants from all over the world to work hard, have fun and decode the clues that will lead one lucky winner to the mysterious Sunstone of Cortes.

How does it work? Kids will choose three electives out of 15 (depending on which package you select), including math, engineering, cooking, typing and even yoga, to solve each weekly challenge. Once solved, an original webisode containing the next hidden clue will be unlocked. The first treasure hunter to solve the mystery will jet off to unearth the real buried treasure—$1,000 in gold!

Cost: $99 and up. Click here for more information.

Online: brainchase.com

 

photo: istock

Scholastic's Read-a-Palooza

 

Your avid reader can help underprivileged kids gain access to books by keeping track of his total minutes read this summer. Sign up on Scholastic's new Home Base to get started. As kids track their reading streaks, they’ll unlock fun videos, book excerpts and other exclusive summer content. For every two days in a row kids track their reading streaks, Scholastic, with the help of other sponsors, will donate a book (totaling up to 100,000 books) to underserved kids across the country. You can register here, and check out the info for parents here.

Cost: Free

Online: scholastic.com/summer

 

photo: Dave Edens via Flickr

Ranger Rick Photo Contest

 

If you’ve got a budding Ansel Adams at home, the Ranger Rick photo contest is a great way to keep her busy over the summer. First, head for the great outdoors (or your own backyard) and have her take nature photos. Then, select her favorite one and send it in with proper sizing (2 MB or smaller, JPG format, at least 600 pixels wide or 600 pixels tall). If your kid doesn’t have a digital camera, no worries! Phone images are also accepted. Recent winners (this is an ongoing contest) are entered into the running for Ranger Rick’s "Your Best Shots" Magazine Award and are selected three times a year. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and copies of the magazine featuring the winning image!

Cost: Free

Online: rangerrick.org/photo-contest

 

photo: Dana Porrazzo via Kids That Do Good

Kids That Do Good Volunteer Program

 

It's never too early to instill the habit of giving to others. Have your little philanthropists sign up with Kids That Do Good this summer in order to spend time giving back to their local community. The online (kid-founded!) resource allows kids to get involved with a cause or charity of their choosing—or, if you’ve got real go-getters at home—create their own! Once you’ve created an account and found an organization, kids can track their service hours via social profiles and certificates. During Covid-19, they're highlighting ways that you can volunteer safely from home, including sewing masks, transcribing historic documents and more.

Cost: Free

Online: kidsthatdogood.com

 

photo: orangefred via Flickr

Apple Camp

 

The very popular Apple Camp returns for the summer. Designed to help spark the imaginations of kiddos ages 8-12, this three-day workshop allows kids to explore and expand on their digital creativity. They’ll choose one of three tracks, and spend 90 minutes of each day working on their project. Be sure to sign up here to get an email announcing open registration—spots fill up quickly!

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: Apple has paused all of its events for the time being. You can check back on their website for updates and sign up to be notified if/when registration opens.

Online: apple.com/retail/camp

 

photo: Rebecca Landis via Flickr

Home Depot Maker Classes

 

The Home Depot offers workshops that are perfect for mini-makers. Simply pre-register online, and then show up on the selected Saturday to build fun projects like a putting green. At the end of the two-hour workshop, kids receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: These classes aren't currently running; check back later in the summer for updates.

Online: homedepot.com/workshops

 

photo: Zhao via Flickr

Camp Creativity at Michael's

 

Does your artist dream of paint, paper, glitter and glue? If so, Michael’s Camp Creativity is the perfect way to beat summer brain drain. Kids come in on Mon., Wed. and Fri. from 10:00 am-12:00 pm to work on projects that have fun themes like Zoo Adventures, World Explorers and Sea Treasures. There are new crafts each day, Friday is a slime-themed project, and kids get stickers and coloring pages to collect for each session they attend.

Cost: $3 for a 30-minute session

Covid-19 update: Since gatherings are off-limits, for now, Michael's has taken their kids club online! Visit their website and sign up to take a live class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3 pm central time. All the classes are also saved in video form so you can get crafting whenever you want.

Online: michaels.com/camp-creativity

 

photo: Patrick via Flickr

Kids Bowl Free

 

Budding bowlers can perfect their technique all summer long thanks to Kids Bowl Free, which allows them to play up to two games a day free of charge. All that's missing is a pair of those sweet bowling shoes. To find a participating bowling alley near you, click here.

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: With bowling alleys largely closed across the country, Kids Bowl Free is pausing their program until June 1. As bowling alleys reopen, the program will start back up again—and may extend past the summer months as well. 

Online: kidsbowlfree.com

 

photo: Neeta Lind via Flickr

Summer Movie Programs

 

Sometimes a dark and cool movie theater is the only way to beat the heat. Your kids can sign up for a punch card or show up at participating Cinemark (movies shown on Tues. and Thurs.) and Regal theaters (movies shown on Tues. and Wed.) to catch a fun, kid-friendly flick for just $1. Even better, most movies show before noon, making it easy to catch a flick and head home for nap time.

Insider Tip: You can skip the concession lines at Cinemark with a speed pack!

Cost: $1 per movie at both locations, or $5 for 10 punch card from Cinemark.

Covid-19 update: Movie theaters are a no-go at the moment, but you can still do an outdoor movie night in the backyard or have a Disney+ marathon.

Online: cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse and regmovies.com/movies/summer-movie-express

 

photo: Steven Depolo via Flickr

Kids Skate Free

 

Xanadu your heart out and head for the local roller rink this summer. Whether your kids like to skate or rollerblade, a few laps will get their blood pumping, and the cool, A/C-induced temps are a total bonus. The Kids Skate Free program allows families to take advantage of this offer once a week (during summer months). Click here to find out if it’s happening at your local rink.

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: Most roller rinks are currently closed. As your area opens up, check the Kids Skate Free website to see if your local rink is still participating.

Online: kidsskatefree.com

 

National Park Jr. Ranger Program

 

If you’ve got a National Park nearby, be sure to sign up your mini explorers for the NPS Junior Ranger Program. Each kiddo will be outfitted with a handy Junior Ranger guidebook that's filled with historical facts and cool tips about all the National Parks. Every adventurer also gets the chance to complete a series of activities, share answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Click here to learn more. 

Insider Tip: Kids can earn badges at home by downloading activity books and information packets. Click here for more info. 

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: National park services are slowly opening in phases, so be sure to check the park website before you visit. There are plenty of online activity guides that you can print out and complete, along with virtual tours and video content to enjoy the parks from home.

Online: nps.gov/kids/become-a-junior-ranger.htm

 

Museums on Us

 

If you are a Bank of America or a Merrill Lynch cardholder, you can snag free admission at more than 150 museums, science centers and botanical gardens across the country on two days every month just by showing your card. Find out if your favorite museum is participating, and on what days, by clicking here.

Cost: Free

Covid-19 update: With many museums closed indefinitely, be sure to check your local museum's website to see if they're open before you visit.

Online: museums.bankofamerica.com

Mother's Day Restaurant Deals

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1. BASKIN ROBBINS

Check out the new Baskin Robbins DIY Sundae Kit that includes everything you need to make Baskin Robbins Sundaes at home – just like the pros!

Included in this kit are two quarts of ice cream in your choice of flavors, three different toppings of your choosing, an entire can of whipped cream, cherries, cups, napkins, and spoons! 

To score this deal, simply head over here or download the Baskin-Robbins app, then select “DIY Kits” from the menu and build your order. 

 

2. BOB EVANS

Send mom a hug on a plate! Bob Evan’s offers several Mother’s Day meal options with free delivery! Note that a $15 minimum purchase is required for free delivery where available.

  • Mother’s Day Dinner – includes Turkey & Dressing plus Hickory-Smoked Ham Steak served with your choice of two sides and freshly baked dinner rolls for just $11.99.
  • Mother’s Day Family Meal – includes both Slow-Roasted Turkey AND Hickory-Smoked Ham, your choice of two sides, and freshly baked rolls for four people for just $39.99.
  • Farmhouse Feast with Turkey or Ham – Packed cold and ready to heat, pre-order your Farmhouse Feast for four people, starting at $54.99. Pre-order by Friday, May 8th.

3. BONEFISH GRILL

Starting May 8th and for a limited time only, Bonefish Grill is offering their Mahi & Shrimp Family Bundle for just $49.99. They also have other Family Bundle options, with prices starting at $30.

Call your local Bonefish Grill to place a carryout order. Head here to view your specific location details (hours, phone number) or menu pricing. And to enjoy Bonefish Grill without leaving your home, you can order delivery through DoorDash and Uber Eats.

4. BOSTON MARKET

Boston Market offers Family Meals that include a Rotisserie Chicken, Roasted Turkey, BBQ Ribs (where available), or home style Meatloaf, with sides and cornbread (serves 3-6 people).

Here are a few meal deal options available:

  • Rotisserie Chicken Meal Deal | $27.09-$57.59 – includes Rotisserie Chicken for 3-6 people, 3-6 large sides, and 3-6 cornbread.
  • Baby Back Ribs Meal Deal | $35.19-$66.69 – includes Baby Back Ribs for 3-6 people, 3-6 large sides, and 3-6 cornbread.
  • Chicken & Ribs Family Combo | $38.99 – includes a Whole Chicken, Full order of Baby Back Ribs, 4 large sides, and 4 cornbread.
  • XL Family Meal Deal | $59.99 – includes 3 Whole Chickens, 6 large sides, and 12 cornbread will help you win that battle. And maybe have leftovers!

Meal Deals are available for pick up in-store or via curbside only. Enter promo code PICKUP10 at checkout to save 10% on Pick Up Orders only.

5. CRACKER BARREL

Through May 10th, order one of Cracker Barrel’s select Family Meal Baskets To-Go, which includes a classic entree and sides to share. Order now for curbside, pickup, and free delivery with a $15 purchase for delivery on 5/9/20 and 5/10/20 only.

Choose from the following Family Meal Baskets:

  • All-Day Pancake Breakfast – Buttermilk Pancakes, Butter & Syrup, Scrambled Eggs, Choice of Bacon or Sausage Patties, and Hashbrown Casserole or Fried Apples.
  • Sunday Homestyle Chicken – Boneless chicken breasts, hand-dipped in their special buttermilk batter and deliciously deep-fried. Served with two Country Sides and Buttermilk Biscuits.

Plus, for a limited time, order their new Family Meal Baskets To-Go for dinner and get 4 Four-Layer Bacon Breakfast Bowls for free! Each bowl features their delicious Hashbrown Casserole mixed with Sawmill Gravy and Thick-Sliced Bacon, all topped with Colby Cheese.

And, through May 10th, Cracker Barrel is offering moms a free $10 Cracker Barrel Promo Gift Card with any purchase, including pre-orders, valid both in-store or online!

6. EL POLLO LOCO

Through May 10th, give Mom the gift of NO dirty dishes with the El Pollo Loco $20 Familia Dinner – no coupon needed! This dinner includes 12 pieces of El Pollo Loco’s signature fire-grilled chicken, three large sides, tortillas, and salsa.

This offer will be available to El Pollo Loco Rewards Members (free to join here) or by downloading the El Pollo Loco app during Mother’s Day weekend.

To redeem the $20 Familia Dinner offer starting May 8th, simply head here to find your location for delivery or pickup orders, or order using the mobile app.

 

7. LA MADELEINE

La Madeleine is offering up breakfast, lunch, and dinner Mother’s Day Bundles starting at just $29.99. Go here, enter your zip code, and choose Meal Bundles & Kits on the left side to order.

Choose from the following options:

  • Breakfast & Bundle for 4 ($29.99): Includes Homemade Quiche, Fresh Fruit Salade, & Fresh-baked Goods.
  • Picnic Lunch for 4 ($39.99): Includes Chicken Salade, Butter Croissants, Fresh Fruit Salade, Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta Salade, & Iced Cookies.
  • Family Dinner for 4 ($42.99): Includes Chicken la Madeleine, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli, Caesar Salade, & Fresh Baguette.

8. LUBY’S

Luby’s Family Packs To-Go are the perfect solution for giving mom the night off from cooking and cleaning up! Family Packs feed up to 6 people and include a shareable entree, 2 sides, and bread of your choice, starting at just $19.95. They’re ready to take home in 30 minutes or less!

Call your local restaurant or order online for pick-up at select locations; or get your order delivered via Favor.

9. MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY

Maggiano’s Little Italy is currently offering Family Meals that feed two or four people and are available for carry-out! Please note Family Meal Entrée’s do not include a side dish.

  • Family Meal for Two | $39 – Choose from a variety of Maggiano’s classics, portioned to share with four people. Choose a family-sized Salad, Pasta, and Entrée. Freshly baked Ciabatta Rolls will accompany the meal. Add one dessert for $5 or two desserts for $10!
  • Family Meal for Four | $58 – Choose from a variety of Maggiano’s classics, portioned for two people. Choose a Salad, a Pasta, and an Entrée. Freshly baked Ciabatta Rolls will accompany the meal. Add one dessert for $5 or two desserts for $10!

10. MARIE CALLENDER’S

They are selling five different types of holiday feasts to choose from depending on your family’s needs. Whether mom enjoys turkey, ham, or both, they’ve got it!

Marie Callender’s Take-Home Feasts include apple sage stuffing, fire-roasted yams (with cranberry streusel topping), cranberry sauce, fresh mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, chef’s vegetables, fresh-baked cornbread, whole pumpkin or apple pie, and Marie’s Special Blend Coffee.

  • Turkey Breast Feast (Serves 4-6) – $114.99
    Includes roasted turkey breast with all the feast trimmings above.
  • Ham Feast (Serves 4-6) – $124.99
    Includes a bone-in spiral cut quarter ham and chipotle-pineapple glaze topping with all the feast trimmings above.
  • The Ultimate Whole Turkey Feast (Serves 6-8) – $134.99
    Includes bone-in spiral cut quarter ham topped with chipotle-pineapple glaze topping with all the feast trimmings above.
  • Ham and Turkey Breast Feast (Serves 6-8) – $154.99
    Includes roasted turkey breast, bone-in spiral cut quarter ham with chipotle-pineapple glaze topping, and all the feast trimmings above.
  • The Ultimate Whole Turkey & Ham Feast (Serves 6-8) – $164.99
    Includes whole roasted turkey, bone-in spiral cut quarter ham with chipotle-pineapple glaze topping, and all the feast trimmings above.

Online ordering is only available for select locations with pick-up or delivery via GrubHub or DoorDash. Be sure to call your local restaurant to place an order or to inquire about pickup.

11. OLIVE GARDEN

For a limited time, Olive Garden is offering its popular Buy One Entree & Take One Entree special – all for $12.99, no coupons needed! Choose from Fettuccine Alfredo, Cheese Ravioli with Marinara, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, and more. Note that the second entree does not include soup, salad, or breadsticks.

Plus, when ordering an online ToGo order, you can save an extra $5 with a $40 order when you use promo code 5OFFTG at checkout!

12. PANERA BREAD

Panera Bread is offering up Family Feasts for as little as $29 – no promo code needed! If the Family Feast option is available in your area, it will show up as a menu option.

Created with enough food to feed 2 adults & 2 kids, the Family Feast is priced at $29 and includes your choice of 2 Half Sandwiches, 2 Kids Sandwiches, 1 Salad, 1 Family Mac & Cheese and 1 Whole French Baguette. Or choose the bundle with 4 chocolate chip cookies for an extra $4.

And for a limited time, score FREE delivery on any order over $15 when you use the promo code FREEDELIVERY at checkout. To practice safe social distancing, all orders are delivered contact-free – you can tell the driver where to leave your order in the delivery instruction box.

Also through May 10th, Panera is offering 20% off all gift cards, including eGift cards (discount automatically applied during checkout). You can even use the eGift card to pay for your online Family Feast order and save even more!

13. WILLIAMS SONOMA

As an idea, this Five Days of Entrées bundle ships frozen and includes the following for $204.95!

  • Beef Lasagna: A savory ragu made with a combination of local beef and pork, vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs, layered with tender lasagna noodles and soft herbed cheese, and topped off with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serves 2-4 people.
  • Beef Stroganoff: Tender slices of locally sourced Piedmontese beef, mushrooms, and tender egg noodles in a tangy, cream sauce with notes of mustard seed, sour cream, and brandy. Serves 2-4 people.
  • Meatloaf: Locally sourced beef and Andouille sausage, egg, and vegetables—bound with herbed breadcrumbs—and smothered with ketchup. Serves 2-4 people.
  • Polenta Dolcetta: Bob’s Red Mill polenta mixed with pungent Gorgonzola dolce, then layered with a pleasantly spicy tomato sauce and gooey fontina cheese. Serves 2-4 people.
  • Zuni Stew: A Southwestern mixture of roasted butternut squash, corn, Blue Lake beans, and tomato, in a thick, spicy sauce, coated with locally sourced cheese. Serves 2-4 people.

Be sure to place your order by Monday, May 4th to receive in time for Mother’s Day!

Microsoft Summer Camps

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camp teacher gluing something with table of kids

Microsoft retail stores are hosting FREE Microsoft Summer Camps for kids ages 6 years and older!

Depending on the workshop you choose, these camps last up to 2 hours a day and are held at Microsoft Retail Stores throughout the country.

Most activities are available for children 8 and older or 13 and older with select activities available for kids ages 6 and 7. Note that a parent or guardian of every camp participant under 17 years of age must sign a participation agreement upon arrival and remain in Microsoft Store for the duration of the event.

10+ Summer Reading Programs

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Barnes & Noble
The Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program is here to encourage your children to read and earn a FREE book, simply by following these three easy steps:

  1. Read any eight books this summer and record them in your Summer Reading Journal (English or Español). Tell them which part of the book is your favorite, and why.
  2. Bring your completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store between August 1 – 31, 2019.
  3. Choose your FREE reading adventure from the book list featured on the back of the journal.

Also, be sure to join the Barnes & Noble’s free Kids’ Club– as a welcome gift, you’ll receive 30% off the list price on any one kids’ book or toy, a $5 reward for every $100 you spend on kids’ items online and in stores, and a free cupcake from their café for all your children’s birthdays.

Book Adventure
Book Adventure is a fun, free, online way to motivate your child to read! Kids in grades K-8 can search for books, read them offline, come back to quiz on what they’ve read, and earn prizes for their reading success.

Books-A-Million
Each year, Books-A-Million offers a summer reading program. Read four books on their summer reading form and receive a free drawstring backpack (while supplies last).

Chuck E. Cheese
Looking for a fun way to reward your children for good behavior?  Just download and print out the calendar, mark off days with a pen or sticker as your child accomplishes his/her goals, bring in the completed calendars to Chuck E. Cheese’s and receive 10 free tokens as a reward.  They offer a reading calendar, in addition to practical ones like, “good behavior” and “daily chores.”

Education.com
This website offers suggestions and printables for creating your own Do-It-Yourself Summer Reading Camp, complete with summer activity collages.

Half Price Books Summer Reading
Once children, who are 14 or younger, have read for 300 minutes, they can turn in their completed reading log (by August 29, 2019) to earn Bookworm Bucks. Highschoolers can also earn Bookworm Bucks, but they must write book reviews.

PBS Kids
Miss A’s favorite series is the Cat in the Hat Learning Library, created by the amazing PBS Kids.  On their website, you can find books they’ve published, suggested reading lists, and practical suggestions for creating a literary home.

Pizza Hut
Their Book It program is winding down for the year, but be sure to sign up for Fall 2019 (it’s open to homeschoolers right now)!  In the meantime, this summer, enjoy their Summer Reading Challenge.  Their website offers printables, online games, book lists, and more.

Scholastic
The Scholastic Summer Challenge is a free reading program dedicated to stopping the “Summer Slide” and encouraging kids to read every day this summer. Kids will unlock virtual prizes and can enter fun giveaways.

Showcase Cinemas
A fun and rewarding summer reading program developed to encourage young children to read during the summer months, Bookworm Wednesdays entitles kids to free admission to a select children’s film when they present a book report at a participating Cinema de Lux, Showcase, or Multiplex Cinemas box office. Accompanying parents or guardians and children under six years of age receive free admission and do not need to submit a book report. Bookworm Wednesdays will resume in summer 2019.

T.D. Bank
In past years, kids in grade K-5 could read 10 books , fill out a summer reading form, take the form to your nearest TD Bank and receive $10 in a new or existing TD Simple Savings account. 

Local Libraries
Most local libraries offer a robust summer reading program; and this year, many will focus on space travel to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first man on the moon.

DIY Traditional New England Clam Bake

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Today, typical clambake fare includes lobster, clams, potatoes, and corn, wrapped and steamed in seaweed (a menu and preparation similar to that of ancestors). Spending a day on the beach recreating this American pastime makes the perfect top off to your beach vacation. 

Digging the Pit

Before hosting a clambake, make sure it's legal to cook on your preferred beach. Then, invite tons of friends and family and start digging. The ideal pit size for accommodating your various crustaceans and veggies should measure approximately 3-feet deep and 4 to 5 feet in diameter. Once the pit is dug, line the bottom of your pit with large stones that are 6 to 8 inches around. Tackle this preparation in the early morning, before the sun is high and the sand is hot. 

Building the Fire

Next, build a fire on top of the rocks using hardwood you brought from home, bought from a general store, or collected on the beach. Driftwood also works well in a pinch. Allow your fire to burn for several hours (and most of the afternoon), re-stoking it, as needed. In the final hour before cooking, as a hack, add charcoal to your bed of embers to ensure ample heat for cooking your food. If you choose to omit the charcoal, test your heat source by splashing water on the rocks—the water should sizzle and evaporate upon contact. When your fire dies down to just embers and charcoal, it's ready to cook on. Rake out any extra wood and ash, and then cover the hot rocks and charcoal with a 3-inch layer of wet seaweed.

Preparing the Food

The quantity of food you cook depends on the crowd size. An intimate feed for 6 to 8 people calls for at least one 1 1/4-pound lobster per person, 2 pounds new potatoes, 6 pounds littleneck or cherrystone clams, and 1 ear of corn per person (husk on). If you're expecting more, bump up the quantities to the sufficient amount of food needed—your fire pit can handle it. Purchase your lobster and clams live, and on the day of cooking, and keep them chilled until you're ready to steam them. Rinse and scrub the clams in a sink, prior to cooking, and wash and pierce the potatoes with a knife. Then, wrap the corn and potatoes individually in foil and load all the food items into a cheesecloth sack, placing it on top of the embers. Cover the food with another 2 inches of wet seaweed and watch it steam.

(Note: Have a few buckets of seawater on hand to drizzle over the pit for a good steam. Having water available also serves as a safety precaution, in the event of a fire gone out of control.) 

Steaming and Serving the Meal

Cover the entire pit with a burlap sack or large piece of canvas that has been soaked in seawater. Secure the sides of the sack with heavy rocks or sand to seal in the steam. Let the entire ensemble cook for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. And don't forget to melt 1 pound of butter for dipping. This can be done in a pot at the edge of your pit or at home on the stove, prior to serving. 

When done, lobsters will turn red, clamshells will open, and potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork. Use oven mitts or leather fire gloves to remove the food from the pit. Place the food sack on a tarp in the sand or on a picnic table and serve it buffet style, with individual cups of melted butter. Accompany your meal with cold beer, white wine, or Prosecco.

DIY Hot Dog Bar

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What a fun idea! Set up a DIY hot dog bar for your next bbq or party! 
This theme is super easy to pull together. Aside from the shopping, which we did most of the day before, this entire theme was put together & shot in a single day – including the design of the printables!
Target and Walmart are great sources for BBQ supplies. Be sure to check the dollar section first.
FOOD NEEDED:
  • chili
  • corn chips 
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • guacamole
  • diced onions
  • pickle spears
  • tomato slices
  • mustard
  • hot peppers
  • sweet peppers
  • coleslaw
  • deli mustard
  • ketchup

This was more than enough and offered guests a range of combinations to choose from.

FREE BBQ THEMED PRINTABLES – Download Links:

(click on a link to download the high-res pdfs. ENJOY!)

– Blank Food Labels (can also be used as Place Cards)
– Water Bottle Labels
– “Drink Up” Sign
– Hot Dog Recipe Signs
– “Make Your Own Hot Dog” Sign

 

 

 

Build Your Own Burger Bar

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HOW TO MAKE A BUILD-YOUR-OWN-BURGER BAR

The possibilities for toppings are almost endless! How big or small you want your options to be is totally up to you. Have your buns, hamburger patties, and toppings spread out on a big buffet table so your guests can choose what they like. Have the table placed next to the grill if you’d like to serve the patties as they’re done cooking. 

Here are some topping ideas!

CHEESES:

  • Cheddar
  • Swiss
  • Pepper Jack
  • Blue

TOPPINGS:

  • Lettuce
  • Tomatoes
  • Avocado
  • Red onions
  • Caramelized onions
  • Sauteed mushrooms
  • Bacon
  • Pickles
  • Jalapeño peppers

CONDIMENTS:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Yellow mustard
  • Dijon mustard
  • Ketchup
  • Ranch
  • BBQ sauce

BBQ Money-Saving Tips + Checklist

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Make your next BBQ a success with this check-list!

  1. First, go here to print off this helpful checklist
  2. Choose your venue! Will this be a backyard BBQ, a BBQ in the park or a beachside grilling session? If you’re holding your BBQ in a public space, be sure to reserve a grill ahead of time and check local Covid restrictions.
  3. Check out our Summer Pinterest board here
  4. Plan the guest list and maximize your available space. 
  5. Set up a DIY Hot Dog bar, here's how!
  6. Send out the invites to get the ball rolling. Facebook invites make it easy and free.
  7. Buy the basic supplies: get cheap, bright, and patriotic paper plates, napkins, and cutlery.
  8. Consider hosting a Clam Bake instead of the typical BBQ
  9. Plan your decor: will your BBQ be specifically patriotic, or will you go with a summer-theme? For a patriotic event, buy mini flags, star-spangled garlands, and plenty of other red, white, and blue goodies. For a summer-focused event, go for a tropical vibe with tiki torches, mini umbrellas, and other island-centered decor! Balloons and streamers are great for any event.
  10. Plan your main course. Make sure to have a couple of meat options–hamburgers, hotdogs, ribs, chicken are all great options!  Make sure to have vegetarian course as well. If you do choose to grill some veggies, make sure you grill them first, out of courtesy to the vegetarians.
  11. A Burger Bar with all the fixins is another fun idea
  12. Have some fun with side dishes. While some chips or crackers and cheese will do just fine, side dishes are your time to shine. Think potato salad or coleslaw, and help guests to remember your BBQ fare for years!
  13. Set up a condiment station with ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, pickles, and whatever else you think your guests might enjoy.
  14. Add a couple of ready made fruit platters and vegetable platters on the side.
  15. Fill your cooler with beer, soda and juice galore–but don’t forget the water bottles! We like filling those large plastic 
  16. Brownies, chocolate chip cookies and make your own ice cream sundaes are always winners for dessert.
  17. Plan your server station: find a couple of tables, tablecloths, serving dishes, and serving spoons. Arrange your station so that guests can move in and out in an orderly fashion; buffet style does the trick.
  18. On the day of, slather up in some sunscreen, set up the stereo outdoors, and enjoy!

See our BBQ Pinterest Board for More!

 

Save on Air Conditioning

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Stay cool this summer with these tips from Dealnews.com!

Know How Many BTUs You Need Based on Room Area

Chances are you already know that BTU stands for British thermal unit, and the more BTUs an air conditioner cranks out, the stronger its cooling power. But here's the problem: Most American consumers aren't sure how to translate BTUs into the square footage of a room. (No disrespect to the Brits, but maybe we need an American thermal unit, where 1 AMU corresponds to 1 square foot?)

Lobbying for the AMU aside, you don't have to guess how much BTU power you'll need to cool your space. Instead, see the chart below, or check out this (similar) handy Energy Star website. It simply correlates the area you want to cool into BTUs per hour.

So for example, an air conditioner with a rating of 8,000 BTUs can cool a room that's 300 to 350 sq. ft., or one that measures about 18 ft. x 18 ft. Of course, you still have to measure your room, but we trust you can work a tape measure and apply this formula: Area equals length times width. For irregularly sized rooms, you can always estimate by breaking down the room into smaller geometric shapes, and calculating the size of those.

Most folks think bigger is always better, but it's not always so with AC. According to the Energy Starfolks, "Air conditioners remove both heat and humidity from the air. If the unit is too large, it will cool the room, before it has a chance to remove the humidity. The result will be a room that's not very comfortable to spend time in," and "That cool moist air will make the room feel damp and clammy." Damp and clammy isn't much better than sweltering.

Use a Ceiling Fan, Too

It's one thing to run an air conditioner in your room. But combine its power with a simple ceiling fan, and you can have the best of both worlds. Often costing less than a penny an hour to run, ceiling fans have an immediate impact on your domestic comfort once you buy and install them. They generally start at about $40 apiece. The nice thing about a ceiling fan is it can make you feel anywhere from 3 to 8 degrees cooler.

SEE ALSO: Your No-Sweat Guide to Buying a Fan

Calculate Your Yearly Costs Before You Buy

When you buy any air conditioner these days, it should come with one of those bright yellow Energy Guide stickers on the box that tells you exactly how much the unit will cost to run. Take this into account, as it's part of your total cost for both buying and operating the unit.

Get an Energy Star Model

If your unit is more than 9 years old, seriously consider replacing it. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, room air conditioners that are ENERGY STAR certified are typically 13% more energy-efficient than standard models. Depending on how long you hold onto that new unit, you could save $99 or more over its lifetime in energy costs alone — a de facto rebate just for upgrading to an Energy Star model.

The key number to look for is the energy efficiency ratio, or EER: The higher the EER, the more efficient the unit. So if you replace an old EER 5 unit with a new EER 10 unit, you can cut your cooling costs in half. You should also look for the "Energy Star" and "Energy Guide" labels when purchasing a window unit. An energy-efficient unit will cycle the compressor on and off so it doesn't operate continuously. And Energy Star central air units have higher EER ratings and use 8% less energy when compared to conventional new models.

Room air conditioners that are ENERGY STAR certified are typically 13% more energy-efficient than standard models.

Consider Central Air

If you're thinking about upgrading to central air, it's easy to beat yourself up for being an energy hog, or to get intimidated by the sticker price. Yes, it's true that central units will use a lot more power than, say, a single window unit on each floor of a 2-story dwelling. But if you have more than two rooms to cool, then your best bet is to go with a central unit, which also provides long-term resale value for a home. Well-designed central systems also win out in terms of being able to filter the air for allergens and pollutants, and for controlling humidity.

Again, keep in mind that window units aren't necessarily more energy efficient than central air units. A window unit that is too small to cool a room may run continuously, wasting energy. When shopping for a central air conditioning system, make sure the SEER number (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is 15 or better. A less efficient system will cost you more to run.

Get a Programmable Thermostat

It's easy to think that buying a new air conditioner or two will solve all of your summer cooling problems. But your AC could use a little help. With central units, for example, a programmable timer or thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs by regulating the temperature when you're out of the house, and by turning on only when you return home.

Clean Out Your Air Filters Regularly

With window units, air filters get dirty, and fast. Clean your AC filter at least every month, as a dirty filter makes your AC work harder and use more electricity. Regardless of the type or age of the unit, you should change your filters after every 90 days of use.

Block Sunlight With Drapes

What's more, you'll use less energy cooling down a room by keeping direct sunlight out during the day. Sunlight can raise the room temperature by 10 to 20 degrees. The less heat that gets into your home, the less you have to pay to remove it. It just so happens that drapes block sunlight and heat better than blinds.

Do Some Careful Deal Shopping for Your AC

DealNews keeps an ever-updated list of air conditioning deals for you to peruse and compare. Of course, this time of year, AC sales are as plentiful as backyard barbecues. The worst thing to do is feel a heat wave hit you in the face, rush to the first store you can find, and buy the first unit you see. Do some comparison shopping, checking out multiple units for price, efficiency, reliability, and features.

The few minutes you spend comparing notes and using your shopping smarts will do more than show off how cool you are. It'll help you make a prudent choice that will keep your living space comfy all summer long, and for many summers to come.

Watermelon Ice Cream Pops

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All you need:

2 pints strawberry ice cream (or cherry), slightly softened
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips 
1 pint pistachio ice cream (we used mint chocolate chip)
10 popsicle sticks (optional)

Preparation

Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap. 

In a medium bowl, mix strawberry ice cream with mini chocolate chips. Pour ice cream into loaf pan. 

Spread a layer of ice cream over the strawberry layer. Place sticks down the middle of the loaf pan. Place into the freezer for a few hours until firm. 

Once firm, remove from the loaf pan and slice the ice cream in between each stick to make an ice pop! I just cut them into slices, look how cute!

Eat immediately or place them into individual baggies and keep them in the freezer until ready to eat.

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

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Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds strawberries, stemmed and quartered
5 tablespoons sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Directions
Mix strawberries with 3 tablespoons sugar and refrigerate while juices develop, at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add heavy cream and mix until just combined. Place mixture in an ungreased 8-inch square pan and bake until golden, 18 to 20 minutes.

Remove shortcake from pan and place on a rack to cool slightly. Cut into 6 pieces and split each piece in half horizontally.

Spoon some of the strawberries with their juice onto each shortcake bottom. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and then the shortcake top. Spoon more strawberries over the top and serve.


Getting Married? 14 Registry Freebies

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American Pizza

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Love this idea, make a pizza flag!

Pizza flag

6 oz. part skim mozzarella cheese slices

1 Tbsp. Country Crock Spread or butter

2 cups fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and patted dry

1 frozen pizza dough, thawed

1 cup prepared pizza sauce

2 plum tomatoes, sliced in half lengthwise and cut into slices or 1 sliced red bell pepper or a mixture of the two

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

 

Here's how:

Take two slices of mozzarella cheese and stack together. Use kitchen scissors or small knife to cut a few star shapes out of the cheese. Slice remaining cheese slices into 1-inch strips.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Melt butter or margarine in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Stretch pizza dough to fit a rectangular pan. Spread pizza sauce evenly over dough. Sprinkle spinach over top left corner of dough. Place stars on the spinach. Lay tomatoes (or peppers) and cheese strips in alternating strips on rest of the pizza.

Bake 10 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and starting to turn golden and crust is starting to brown. Remove from oven and serve with crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Serves 8.

— Adapted from a recipe from Country Crock