Dripping with Kids

Tag: Texas with kids

  • 2025 Holidays in the Hill Country

    2025 Holidays in the Hill Country

    The holiday season has been starting earlier and earlier each year. I have friends who completed all of their Christmas decorating on November 1st, while I still have scarecrows guarding my flower bed and fall leaf garland adorning my stair railing.

    Despite my procrastination, I’m excited for the Advent season and Christmas, and now is a great time to reflect on the events and traditions my family looks forward to every year. I love sharing our favorites with you and hope you’ll let us know what tops your lists as well.

    One of our most anticipated Christmas traditions is our Family Advent Calendar. I write down one holiday experience to do for each of the days leading up to Christmas, starting on December 1, These daily activities can be must-do tasks, like addressing and sending Christmas cards, or fun nights out, like meandering through a trail of lights after dinner.

    I cling to this tradition every year despite how busy my kids’ schedules become because we connect our participation in our favorite events, activities, tasks, and traditions to the joyful anticipation of celebrating the birth of Jesus. In addition to a daily activity, I also include a slip of paper with scripture that tells part of the Christmas story so that each day, a little more of the story is being recited. (Luke 1:26-35; Luke 2:1-20)

    Our Family Advent Calendar

    Below I’ve included a list of some of the at-home activities I’ve hidden in our Advent calendar pockets in years past, followed by our 2024 Holiday Bucket List of events and activities. Use our guide to fill in your own Advent calendar!

    TRADITIONS/FUN AT HOME – 

    • Bake sugar cookies
    • Make cards/gifts for teachers, neighbors, coaches, and relatives
    • Holiday movie night
    • Read the story of St. Nicholas and put shoes outside bedroom doors for a little surprise (Dec 6th)
    • “Elf” the neighbors
    • Caroling at home and holiday charades
    • Decorate the tree(s) or make centerpieces
    • Make homemade paper snowflakes and tape them in the windows
    • Tell stories of our family’s holidays past, as well as dreams for the future (reminisce over photos, plan vacations, etc)
    • Silly game night (minute to win it)
    • Make gingerbread houses

    HILL COUNTRY HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST –

    (Our list is in no particular geographic or date order, so be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom to check out all of the exciting options around the Hill Country.)

    Main Street Bethlehem (Burnet)

    Dec 5, 6, 7 and 12, 13, 14, 6 pm – 9 pm

    Walk through historic Bethlehem to find Jesus

    Explore the live nativity, down the narrow streets to faint sounds of ancient music, savoring the sights and smells. Immerse yourself in the din of the marketplace; surrounded by the revelers in the tavern, shouted insults to and from the Roman oppressors, merchants, craftspeople, animals of all kinds, taxpayers, and beggars all seeking money, or position, or revenge.

    Western Wonderland (Dripping Springs)

    Nov 28 – January 4

    Go ice skating, peruse the market, listen to festive music, walk the trail of lights, and/or attend a special event such as story time on the ice. This rink is my kids’ top choice, and it’s one of the biggest temporary ice skating rinks in Texas. Check the link for prices and hours.

    Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s and Budafest (Buda)

    Now – Dec 24 & Dec 5-6

    Santa's Wonderland

    Stop in the store for a free photo with Santa and a stroll through the store’s holiday decorations. Your kids can also mail a letter to Santa and take home a holiday craft kit. Plus, no visit to Cabela’s is complete without a visit to the dead zoo.

    Budafest is the town’s big weekend festival Dec 6th-8th. It will include shopping, games, vendors, music, a lighted parade, Santa, and so much more!

    Serve at Brown Santa, Sing to Seniors, or Donate to Toys for Tots

    There are so many ways to serve as a family during the holiday season. We love wrapping gifts for families through Brown Santa, dropping off additional gifts in Caliterra for Toys for Tots, scheduling a date to carol for seniors at a local home, and “adopting” a family or child through an Angel Tree at a local school or church.

    Luminations at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (Austin)

    Dec 5 – Jan 3

    Enjoy the illuminated trail walk with thousands of lights. Go earlier in the day to explore the forts of Fortlandia. Purchase tickets in advance.

    Christmas in Marble Falls

     Nov 19 – Jan 3

    Just along the water’s edge, there’s a free Walkway of Lights with a variety of themes, as well as daily events to get you in the Christmas spirit, including breakfast with Santa, ice skating, shopping, and a lighted parade on Dec 5.

    Lost Pines Christmas (Bastrop)

    Nov 28 – Dec 25

    Take a short drive to Bastrop for some spectacular holiday events, including a wassail fest, river of lights, a holiday revue at the Opera House, tree lighting ceremony, historic home tour, and a lighted parade on Dec 13.

    PEC Lights Spectacular (Johnson City)

    Nightly November 29  – Jan 4

    Johnson City Light Spectacular

    The courthouse and downtown area are aglow with thousands of lights. Local vendors set up tables inside and outside the courthouse. Check website for special events, such as lighted parade on Nov 29, a chili cookoff on Dec 13, and a live nativity on Dec 5-13 at the Methodist Church nearby.

    Weihnachtszeit – Christmas in Fredericksburg

    Nov 19 – Jan 4

    Show up on any day of the week for a spectacular holiday light show and events-a-plenty. Fredericksburg is so full of holiday cheer that you may need a few days to take it all in. Check the website for specific activities and lodging options. Our favorites include the lighted parade on the first Friday in December, the Eisbahn ice skating, Kinderfest at the Pioneer Museum on the first Sat of December, and taking pictures in front of the German Christmas Pyramid.

    Christmas on Mercer (Dripping Springs)

    December 6, 10 am – 5 pm

    This fun hometown festival keeps getting bigger and better. Enjoy shopping with local vendors, a trackless train, pony rides, a festive atmosphere, live music all day long, giveaways and games, an opportunity to write a letter to Santa and mail it on-site, plus free photos with Santa at Hudson’s. (Tree lighting and movie night in Dripping Springs will take place at dusk on November 29.)

    Holidays in Gruene

    Weekends in late Nov and all of Dec

    Photos with Cowboy Kringle (appointment required), free afternoon shows at historic Gruene Hall, gorgeous Christmas lights and decorations throughout the town, a new ice skating rink, and unique shops, as well as weekend markets, to complete your Christmas lists are just a few of the ways to celebrate the season in one of our favorite historic towns! The holidays truly kick off with Santa riding into town on horseback to light the night on the evening of Dec 6 at 5 pm.

    Home Depot Kids’ Workshop

    Nov 29 and Dec 6, 9 am – noon

    Visit your local store so your kids can create their own Teddy Bear Ornament (Nov 29), Hot Cocoa Mug (Dec 6), and Tow Truck (Jan 3) for FREE! Kids develop hands-on skills with sanding, nailing and applying stickers. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a free certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

    Christmas in the Parks (Various State Park locations)

    Nov – Dec

    Enchanted Rock

    Texas State Parks have several holiday events, from scavenger hunts to Santa sightings to s’mores and ornament-making. Find a park near you and enjoy the great outdoors this season! Check out the detailed program linked above.

    Hill Country Galleria Holidays (Bee Cave)

    Nov 14 – Jan 19

    Small ice skating rink

    The popular outdoor mall will have live music, ice skating, Christmas markets, Santa photos, and unique events most days in December, including a Mario Kart party on Dec 13. Check the link for details.

    Mozart’s Festival of Lights (Lake Austin)

    Nov 22 – Jan 4

    Purchase tickets in advance for this special Austin tradition. Grab a hot cocoa or coffee and enjoy the “dancing lights” set to music.

    Emily Ann Theater Trail of Lights (Wimberley)

    Nov 29 – Dec 26

    Enjoy a FREE walking trail through approximately 8 acres of lighted exhibits, with entertainment provided almost every night. Wander into town afterward to stroll and shop local. There are several other events in the adorable town of Wimberley; it’s worth checking their local calendar!

    Maywald Lights Display (W. Austin)

    Nov 27 – Dec 25

    It’s their last year! Over 120,000 lights are on display at a family’s home in Austin for a good cause: the Make-a-Wish foundation! Walk through the trail of light and leave a donation. (FREE to enter.)

    Lights On Festival and Boat Parade (Lakeway)

    Dec 6 & 7 at 6 pm

    Lakeway’s FREE annual holiday and Christmas celebration is held at the Lakeway City Hall parking lot. This festive event kicks off with the official lighting of the Trail of Lights and will include a visit with Santa, live music, vendors, and family photo opportunities. The Trail of Lights will be lit every night afterward, so if you can’t make the event, you can still walk through on another evening until Jan 1.

    On Dec 7th, there will be a lighted boat parade starting at Crosswater Yacht Club.

    We hope this holiday bucket list inspires you to enjoy the 2025 holiday season to the fullest! Please share anything your family never misses during the holidays in the comments below. Also, use the calendar on this page to fill in yours!

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  • Unforgettable Fall Events in the Texas Hill Country, 2025

    Unforgettable Fall Events in the Texas Hill Country, 2025

    Your Fall Bucket List is Here!

    Fall is on its way! Sometimes I think the ‘a’ in fall should be changed to the letter ‘u’ because our calendar is so FULL… in the very best way imaginable. There’s just so much to do and so much to love about fall in the Texas Hill Country.

    Even though the official first day of fall hasn’t yet arrived, and the temps are still in the 90s, we’re preparing for our favorite season. We decorate our house and yard for autumn in September. We set aside Halloween decorations to add to the home and yard for October. And when November 1st hits we’ll switch out Halloween decorations for our Thanksgiving tree and more harvest decor.

    The beginning of September is go-time. We recently pulled the leaf garland, scarecrows, crafting pumpkins, and wreaths from the attic. I switched out the candles throughout the house from summery scents to pumpkin vanilla and honey apple. I’ve stocked the kitchen with the best fall recipe ingredients, and my teens have already indulged in the sugar-laden, pumpkin-flavored, over-priced coffee drinks at the local coffee shops. We’re ready for a festive fall season!

    And now we can fill our days with our favorite fall activities. We squeeze in as much fun as seemingly possible.

    Our Dripping with Kids Fall Bucket List is our guide for all the places we want to go and things we want to do during this beautiful season of pumpkin patches, cute costumes, cooler temps, colorful leaves, and outdoor adventures. Do you have your calendar ready?

    Texas Hill Country Fall Bucket List (2025)

    1. Visit a local farm and pumpkin patch.

    Best pumpkin patches and fall festivals near Austin.

    Whether you refer to it as a fall festival or a pumpkin patch, the month of October isn’t complete without a visit to one… or many! This list includes the festivals we always try to squeeze in, as well as a couple we haven’t seen … yet.

    2. Sing your heart out at a local music festival.

    • Songwriters’ Festival in Dripping Springs: Take in the best local talent on multiple stages, while also enjoying music, food, friendly people, and adorable downtown shops on the weekend of Oct 17-19. In my opinion, the highlight of the weekend is the Gospel Brunch on Sunday morning at Hudson’s on Mercer. You can attend the showcases for FREE!
    • Gruene Music and Wine Festival: From Oct 9-12, some of the best Texas artists will fill the local restaurants and dance halls with country, folk, and Americana tunes. The Gruene Music & Wine Festival promotes Texas and Americana music in a fun and relaxed setting while raising funds for the United Way of Comal County. Admission is FREE to many shows. Tasting tickets are extra.
    • Howl at the Moon Dance Party: On Tuesday October 7 from 8 – 9:00 pm, Blue Hole Regional Park will host their annual Howl at the Moon Dance Party. Dance under the moonlight and then, at 8:30 PM, let loose with an exhilarating group howl at the moon.
    • Outside the City Limits Music Fest: On Nov 8,
      the Outside the City Limits Music Festival, known for chill Hill Country vibes, talented up and coming bands, and Fall fun for the whole family, will take place at Vista Brewing in Driftwood. The festival includes a curated artisan market, kids’ activities Vista’s delicious food & beverages!
    Hudson's on Mercer

    3. Wear your fave lederhosen or dirndl to Oktoberfest.

    Enjoy German food and brews, live music, games, and competitions. Probst!

    4. Get inspired and pick out some fall decor.

    • Wildseed Farms: This isn’t only one of our favorite places to shop; it also has fun fall events. The Fall Festival is coming up on Sept 27 and will include live music, pumpkin patch, kid activities, and wine tasting. Spend time wandering the wildflower trails and butterfly garden also. On Oct 4 and 11, the Monarch Celebration will encourage you to celebrate butterflies and watch them take flight.
    WIldseed Farms Fredericksburg
    Wildseed Farms Fredericksburg
    • Home Depot: Your local Home Depot offers unique woodworking projects for kids on the first Saturday of the month (and the Sat after Thanksgiving). Check with your local store because some require advanced registration. With the project, you can also collect the patch, certificate, and token HD orange apron if you don’t have one yet. Home Depot also has an amazing selection of Halloween and autumn decor or you can pull up some of your pins on Pinterest and collect the materials needed for those DIY projects you’ve saved. Upcoming Kids’ Workshop projects include:
    • Market Days: Most small towns host a monthly market with local wares, artwork, home decor, food, wine, and so much more. The festivities often include live music and other activities to keep the whole family engaged. Our favorites are the Old Gruene Market Days and Wimberley Market. Dripping Springs has a weekly farmers’ market also.

    5. Give yourself a little fright.

    • Blue Hole Haunted Trail: On Saturdays from Oct 4-18, 8-9 pm, take an evening stroll… with a twist. Brace yourself for an immersive experience filled with eerie encounters, ghastly surprises, and the rustle of unseen creatures lurking in the shadows, featuring local theater department actors! Only $2 per person. Check out the FREE family festival, BOO Hole Halloween Festival, on the afternoon of Oct 18 at Blue Hole Regional Park as well.
    • Dripping Springs Haunted House: This experience begins with a hayride and ends with screams. The non-profit organization, supporting Burke Center for Youth, uses young local actors to provide a haunted movie-like production at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park on specified weekend nights in October.
    • Pumpkin Nights: Venture out to Pioneer Farms after dark, where a dimly-lit walking path will escort you through fantastical lands and lead you to a festival with expert pumpkin-carvers, music, unique decorations, games, and food. Buy tickets in advance. Open from September 13 until the end of October. During the daytime hours, this living history farm offers guided tours and classes, such as blacksmithing and Texas swing dancing. Visit a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a German Emigrant Farm, a Texian Farm, a Cotton Planter’s Farm and a rural village called Sprinkle Corner all in one day.
    Pumpkin Nights Austin

    6. Enjoy fall events with a ranger.

    Most of the state parks, as well as other municipal parks, in the area offer day and night activities during this time of year to learn about nocturnal animals, stars, the changing seasons, and geological history. Check out the many events and programs offered at the state parks and/or register for the unique ones we listed here.

    Sunset at Pedernales Falls State Park

    7. Peep some leaves. (Yes, even in Texas!)

    We may be one of the last states in the nation to see the leaves change colors, but it does happen! There are a few locations where you can peep those beautiful brown, red, yellow, and burgundy leaves. Our favorite spots are Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Park, but even here in Dripping Springs, we get a little taste of what New England goes gaga over every fall. This article shares additional places in Texas to peep some leaves.

    8. Cheer under the Friday night lights.

    Most Texans associate the fall season with football. I’m sure you have a favorite college and NFL team, but the real (and affordable) fun is at the high school games!

    Every Friday night, there’s an opportunity to cheer on local students, fill your belly with burgers and popcorn, and enjoy entertaining marching band shows as well as dance performances. Here’s a list of all HS football schedules within the area, plus the Dripping Springs schedule below!

    9. Enjoy forts like a kid again.

    There’s one final attraction worthy of this bucket list that doesn’t quite fit in the above categories: it’s Fortlandia at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! We can’t wait to see the new forts in this highly-anticipated seasonal exhibit. This is a great time to upgrade your admission to a membership for the next 12 months because your kids will absolutely want to return again and again. The forts will be on display Oct 4 – Feb 1.

    There’s so much to do in our beautiful part of Texas, and there’s a short window to do it in. I could fall hard all year long, but hopefully we can make quite a dent in this list before Thanksgiving.

    Let us know which events or attractions are your favorites, and be sure to subscribe to this blog so you can maximize your fun and family memories in the Texas Hill Country.

  • 2025 Summer in the Texas Hill Country: Day Trips, Local Gems & Family Fun

    2025 Summer in the Texas Hill Country: Day Trips, Local Gems & Family Fun

    We often get asked what we’re up to during the summer months, and while we have a few big trips planned—including adventures in Japan 🇯🇵, beach getaways 🏖️, and a mountain escape ⛰️—we’re also making the most of our time at home. The Texas Hill Country is bursting with charm and activities, so here’s what’s on our list for a summer of fun and exploration!

    🌳 Parks with Swimming Holes

    We never miss a summer visit to Blue Hole Regional Park. Located in the heart of the cute town of Wimberley, it’s an iconic swimming spot surrounded by lush cypress trees. It’s the perfect place to cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear spring-fed waters.

    A few other natural swimming holes we enjoy each summer are Reimers Ranch, Cypress Falls, Lake Marble Falls, Camp Ben, and Commons Ford.

    ⛪️ Vacation Bible School (VBS) Favorites

    Summer wouldn’t be complete without the classic community vibes of Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs. These week-long camps offer fun-filled mornings of crafts, music, and faith-based activities for kids of all ages, often for free!

    🏊‍♂️ Swim Team

    One of my kids is looking forward to being a part of YMCA Austin’s Swim Teamhttps://www.austinymca.org/, where they get to learn new skills, make friends, and gain confidence in the pool. As a member, we can stick around for some extra fun in the interactive pool as well.

    💦 Local Pools

    With the Lakeway Swim Center, Founders Memorial Park, Marble Falls Pool, and James Adkins Pool close by, we can change things up and keep cool this summer with a variety of pool options.

    🤠 Gruene Hall & the Guadalupe River

    We’re heading to Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, for some live music and good times. There are live shows daily, and most are free. We’ll add in a float down the Guadalupe River, one of the best rivers for tubing and relaxing in the sun, or a visit to the splash pad at Fischer Park.

    🌲 State Parks Adventures

    We’re big fans of Texas State Parks, and this summer we’re making stops at:

    Each park offers hiking, swimming, and plenty of chances to spot wildlife. Several have chlorinated pools as well.

    🍹 DS Distilling

    For the best happy hour in town, we’ll be visiting Dripping Springs Distilling to enjoy their craft cocktails and scenic patio views. The best deals on food and drinks are found on Thursday and Friday evenings.

    🎣 Fishing Fun

    We’re excited to join the Free Fishing Day Tournament in Boerne hosted by the Boerne Parks Association. It’s a great way to introduce the kids to the joys of fishing. Adults and children alike can fish in any state park or public waterway without a license on Saturday, June 7th. (Children can fish without a license anytime.)

    🧜‍♀️ River Chutes in San Marcos

    Nothing says summer like the thrilling river chutes at Rio Vista Park. We’re ready to ride the rapids and soak up the sun. Plus the Children’s Park right next door is a great way to break a sweat before taking a dip.

    🏖️ Texas Beaches

    We’re making at least one trip to the coast this summer, with stops planned at Port Aransas and Galveston Island for sandy toes, salty breezes, and endless beach days.

    📖 Library Adventures

    Our family loves reading, and we’ll be attending several of the special summer programs at Dripping Springs Community Library and Westbank Libraries. There’s something magical happening each week!

    🏀 Sports Camp

    Our crew will also be honing their basketball skills at the YMCA, where fun and friendly competition keep things lively.

    🛝 Water Parks

    We’re planning some splash-tastic trips to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels and Landa Park Aquatic Complex for slides, lazy rivers, and endless water fun.

    💴 Bingo Nights

    Bingo is always a blast, and we love taking our chances at the games at Wimberley VFW Post 6441. It’s a fun night out for the whole family! Be sure to bring cash for cards. (BYOB, concession food available)

    🐎 Small Town Rodeos

    Nothing captures the spirit of the Hill Country like a good ol’ fashioned rodeo! We’re heading to events like Rodeo Wimberley to cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls.

    🦖 Dino Exploration

    Last but not least, we’re planning to use our membership to check out the animatronic dinos at the Wildflower Center. It’s a great chance to blend nature and prehistoric fun. Then, we might pop over to Zilker Botanical Garden, also free with our Wildflower Membership, for a walk through their prehistoric garden and the woodland faerie trail.

    From swimming holes to music halls, Texas Hill Country has endless ways to keep summer magical. What’s on your summer list? Let us know in the comments!

  • Easter 2025: Dripping Springs & the Texas Hill Country

    Easter 2025: Dripping Springs & the Texas Hill Country

    Plus Other Spring Events and 9 UNIQUE At-Home Egg Hunt Themes

    Easter is a BIG DEAL in our house. Resurrection Sunday brings so much joy to our family, and the promise of new life that the holiday represents puts it up there with Christmas in how we honor it. I highly encourage you to find a church service to go to on Easter Sunday. Most churches have multiple services available. I also encourage you to take advantage of the many fun events in the area to celebrate.

    Check out this list of Easter and Spring season celebrations offered in Dripping Springs and nearby areas…

    Now through Early May

    • Pick Strawberries at Sweet Berry Farm
      • Daily except Wednesdays
      • Pick strawberries and flowers, make sand art, ride the ponies, wander through the mazes, and enjoy the large jumping pillow.
    • Pick Strawberries at Jenschke Orchards
      • Daily except Mondays and Fridays

    March 29, 2025

    • Dripping Springs Kite Festival
      • Founders Memorial Park
      • 10 am – 12 pm
      • Bring your own kite
    • Family Fun Day at Lucky Arrow Retreat
      • FREE Pool Access 12 pm – 5 pm
      • Register for FREE in advance
      • Live music w/ George Devore 6-8 PM
      • Lobster Dogs Food Truck 5-8pm
      • Kids Menu w/ Grilled Cheese & PB&J’s
      • Cash Bar with craft beer, wine, and delicious cocktails
      • Bonfires for hanging and mingling
      • Kids playground & swing set
    • Crawfish Boil at the Silo
      • Creekhouse Kitchen and Bar (Wimberley)
      • Noon until sold out
      • Drink specials and live music

    April 5th, 2025

    April 11-13th, 2025

    • Bluebonnet Festival in Burnet
      • Downtown Burnet, TX
      • All day, all weekend
      • Live music, kids’ carnival, food trucks, races of all kinds, demolition derby, parade, worship, wildflowers, and shopping.

    April 12th, 2025

    • Eggstravaganza at the Greater Austin YMCA
      • 12 pm – 3 pm
      • RSVP for free online. Membership not required.
      • Egg hunt in the pool and outdoors, balloon artist, face painting, games and more.
    • Fish Fry and Egg Hunt
      • Mt. Olive Lutheran Church
      • 4 pm (Fish dinner, then egg hunts)
    • Butterfly Festival
      • Emily Ann Gardens (Wimberley)
      • 9 am – 3 pm
      • FREE event
      • Butterfly releases, mini donkeys and horses, llamas, crafts, face painting, games, music, and so much more
    • Egg-stravaganza in Buda
      • Buda Sportsplex Softball Fields
      • 9 am – 11:30 am
      • Egg hunts, face painting, fire truck, food vendors, and bounce house

    April 13th, 2025

    • Easter Scavenger Hunt
      • Woodlawn Baptist Church Austin
      • 5 pm
      • Register online in advance. FREE event.
      • All families are invited to a fun time of hunting for eggs by solving clues.

    April 16th – 18th, 2025

    • Stations of the Cross
      • Canyon Baptist Church
      • Check times online
      • Journey through the last week of Jesus’s life, leading to the Cross.

    April 18th – 20th, 2025

    • Hot Air Balloon Festival in Horseshoe Bay
      • Horseshoe Bay Resort
      • All day festival
      • Hot air balloons, skydivers, pony rides, petting zoo, rock climbing wall, bungee trampoline, face painters, henna artists, food trucks, live music, and more

    April 19th, 2025

    • Eggstravaganza in Dripping Springs
      • Dripping Springs Ranch Park
      • 10 am – 6 pm
      • Two helicopter egg drops, games, petting zoo, and more.
      • $10 tickets

    April 20th, 2025

    If all of the events listed above still don’t give you your Easter fill, below is a list of my favorite at-home egg hunt themes. You can make a whole weekend out of egg hunting with these options and keep those kiddos happy for hours on end.

    1. Trick or Treat (or April Fools) Egg Hunt

    Fill most of your eggs with goodies and trinkets, but reserve about 25% of them for tricks instead of treats. They can be filled with rocks, fake money, dried up flowers, or pieces of paper with chores and dares written on them. The only caveat to participate is that you have to agree to take the bad with the good.

    2. Tickets and Prizes Egg Hunt

    Instead of filling eggs with tiny toys and candy that you may not want your children to have, put 1-5 tickets in each egg instead. Then, once all the eggs have been found, let kids redeem their tickets for bigger gifts, prizes, and coveted snacks.

    3. Glow in the Dark Hunt

    Hide tiny trinkets and mini glow sticks in eggs, or just purchase glow eggs. Challenge your kids to an after-dark egg hunt in your home or backyard.

    4. Mission Impossible Egg Hunt

    Section off your house or yard to hide eggs at varying levels of difficulty. Let hunters begin in an area where the eggs are easy to spot and collect. Then move on to an area where they’re harder to spot. Finally move to an area where egg-collection requires climbing, crawling, digging, and uncovering.

    5. Party-Themed Egg Hunt

    If you were to throw a birthday party for your child(ren) this month, what would the theme be? Superheroes? Mickey Mouse? Sports? Whatever that theme would be, fill the eggs with party favors, balloons, tattoos, stickers, and treats related to it. Add a few confetti eggs to the mix as well.

    6. Snack Frenzy Egg Hunt

    Buy up all of your kids favorite snacks in individual bags. Then print thumbnail size pictures of the logos of each type of snack (adding up to the total number of bags you have). Hide the logo pieces inside eggs. When the kids collect eggs and open them, they can exchange their logo picture for the real thing.

    7. Good Deeds Egg Hunt

    In the spirit of the season, we can all do a bit more for our friends, family, and community. Spread joy with an egg hunt that has ideas for random acts of kindness that can be performed on the days following Easter. Fill several eggs with candy and treats and many others with ideas, including:

    • Draw a picture and send to a grandparent.
    • Drop off coloring pages and crayons in the mailbox of a young family in the neighborhood.
    • Call a friend you haven’t seen in a long time.
    • Paint rocks with words of encouragement and drop them along a walking trail.
    • Create a list of feel-good songs and mail them to a friend, along with an invitation for a face time dance party.
    • Drop encouraging bits of scripture in all the neighbors’ mailboxes.
    • Write a thank you note to doctors, coaches, teachers, babysitters…
    8. Game Night Egg Hunt

    Buy, borrow, or search your closet for a few board games, lego sets, or jigsaw puzzles. Hide pieces in plastic eggs, and when all are collected and opened, have a family game night. (If you have time to plan ahead, have a puzzle made with your family picture on it.)

    9. Arts and Crafts Egg Hunt

    Fill eggs with kids’ favorite crafts items, such as googly eyes, pipe cleaners, glue sticks, chalk, play doh or clay, string, poms, mini-paints, beads, erasers, ribbons, stickers, etc. Then, provide empty mason jars to categorize and store all of their new crafting supplies, and let them be creative the rest of the day. This variety pack on Amazon has it all!

    Finally, I’d like to add that resurrection eggs are a fantastic way to incorporate worship into your secular celebrations. There are many resources online to make them yourself or you can have them shipped.

    However you choose to celebrate this very special holiday, I hope it’s an Easter to remember and that it brings the promise of new life and redeeming love to your family. Happy hunting!

  • Top VBS Camps in Austin Area: Summer 2025

    Top VBS Camps in Austin Area: Summer 2025

    The signs of Spring are emerging – sunny days, seedlings sprouting, sandy shorelines summoning, songbirds swarming, and summer camp sign-ups in full swing.

    It’s already time to get your summer planned out! All of the best camps fill up quickly, and Vacation Bible Schools are no exception. After reading through countless camp lists and trying out a variety of them with my first two kids, I’ve definitely learned something for my second round of parenting young children…

    VBS is one of the best parts of summer! So, we say ‘YES’ to VBS for multiple weeks in June and July. If we’re not traveling, we’re at a local church for all the fun provided.

    I’m completely amazed by how much planning, time, and faith are put into Vacation Bible School day camps, and I am thrilled that my children get to experience that kind of joy. It moves me to tears every time I hear them singing the songs they learn in VBS. I love it even more when I hear them relating what they learn in the summer to future Bible lessons throughout the year.

    And what makes VBS even better?

    The price tag, of course! Many are free or cost much less than traditional day camps.

    If you’re searching for a VBS to send your children to this summer, here is a list of the top options in the Austin area and the Texas Hill Country. They’re listed chronologically by dates.

    June 2 – 5, 2025

    • Camp Life Kids in Austin is offering a full day summer camp from 9 am until 4 pm for rising kindergartners through 6th graders. Theme: Live Out Loud. Cost: $250. Registration is open.
    • Dripping Springs Methodist Church offers VBS for rising pre-kindergartners (waitlisted) through rising 5th graders. 9 am – 1 pm. Theme: Hometown Nazareth. Cost: $125. Registration open now.
    • Lake Hills Church offers VBS to children entering kinder – 5th grade. 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Theme: TBA. Cost: $25 (in past years). Registration opens in April.
    • Riverbend Church offers VBS for children ages 4 through 5th grade. 8:30 am – 12:30 pm. Theme: Live It Loud. Cost: $75. Registration open now.
    • First Baptist Church of Dripping Springs offers Kids’ Camp for those who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade. June 3rd – 5th, 9 am – 1 pm (lunch included). $10/child. Registration open.

    June 9 – 12, 2025

    • Austin Ridge Bee Cave and Southwest offers VBS for kids ages 3 or 4 (depending on location) to 5th grade. 9 am – noon. Theme: Summer Blast. Cost: $30. Registrations opens in April.
    • Faith Bible Church offers VBS for children ages 4 to 5th grade. 9 am – noon. Theme: Wonder Junction. Cost: $25. Registration open now.
    • Mt. Olive Church offers VBS for ages pre-k to 5th grade. 9 am – noon. Theme: True North. Cost: $30. Registration open now.

    June 9 – 13, 2025

    • Camp Life Kids in Marble Falls is offering a full day summer camp from 9 am until 4 pm for rising kindergartners through 6th graders. Theme: Live Out Loud. Cost: $250. Registration is open. (Same as Austin camp but different location and dates)

    June 16 – 19, 2025

    • Bethany Lutheran Church offers VBS for PK3 (potty-trained) through 5th grade. Will update as soon as more info is available.

    June 23 – 26, 2025

    • Bannockburn Dripping Springs, South Austin, and Kyle offers VBS for ages 3 through 5th grade. Morning and evening options available, depending on location. Theme: TBA. Cost: $20 (as of last year). Registration opens March 21st.
    • All Saints Austin offers VBS for pre-kindergartners to rising 5th graders. 8 am – noon with extended stay option. Theme: TBA. Cost: Dependent on program. Registration opens March 31st.

    July 8 – 10, 2025

    • Dripping Springs Methodist Church offers a family VBS, called VBX, from 5;30 – 8:30 pm so everyone from littles to grandparents can enjoy dinner, activities, worship, and Bible study. Registration opens soon.

    July 14 – 18, 2025

    • Woodlawn Baptist Church offers VBS for ages 4 through 5th grade, as well as a separate middle school option at the same time. 9 am – noon. Theme: TBA. Cost: FREE (as of last year). Registration will open soon.

    No Announcement Yet

    If you’re looking for other activities to do with your family this summer, check out our past Summer Bucket Lists or the best frugal alternatives to top attractions in Austin and the Texas Hill Country.

    Be sure to subscribe below to get updates on these VBS options and the 2025 SUMMER BUCKET LIST!!

  • 7 Easy, Budget-Friendly Plans for Spring Break in Texas: 2025

    7 Easy, Budget-Friendly Plans for Spring Break in Texas: 2025

    Texas offers several unique and fun Spring Break options from big city to small town. Here is a list of easy and affordable faves. Start making your plans today!

    Spring Break evolves with each stage of life. As a child, it’s a week of carefree adventure—whether that means family road trips or simply a break from school. In college, it’s synonymous with spontaneity, sun-soaked escapades, and a taste of independence. As a young professional, it often means lighter traffic on your commute and the perfect excuse for sunset happy hours on a lively patio.

    However, for parents of school-age kids, Spring Break often means planning, prepping, and packing—whether you’re staying close to home or heading out on an adventure.

    The sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. Do we play hometown tourists? Splurge on a ski trip? Hit the road for a camping getaway? Rent a beach house? Visit family or friends? With so many possibilities, it’s easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis.

    But here’s the thing—no matter the effort, planning, or patience it requires, Spring Break is always worth it. After surviving those grueling winter months (spoken like a true Texan), it feels like a long-awaited turning point. It’s the promise of fewer sick days, longer sunny afternoons, and endless opportunities to get outside. A rite of passage at every stage of life, Spring Break is the perfect pivot from too much screen time to too much sunscreen.

    If you’re still feeling stuck, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Keep reading for fun, last-minute ideas perfect for day trips or short stays in the Texas Hill Country.

    1. Bastrop Area

    Whether your family is into history, the rustic outdoors, chilling by the water’s edge, or window-shopping, there’s something fun for all in this small town. 

    Dinosaur Park Bastrop, Texas

    Places to Stay –

    Things to Do –

    • The Dinosaur Park: Check out dino replicas, explore the gift shop, walk the trails, dig for fossils, and have a picnic near the playground.
    • McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Explore the discovery center, hiking trails, or book a canopy zipline tour, UTV tour, or horseback riding.
    • McKinney Falls State Park: Stay all day for hiking, biking, fishing (rental equipment available), swimming, waterfall-diving, and geocaching. (Book a day pass in advance.)
    • *Downtown Bastrop: Nestled along the Colorado River, this historic downtown has art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, breweries, a museum/visitor center, live music, and theater performances at the old Opera House.
    • *Fisherman’s Park: Soak up the sun at this riverside park with basketball court, playground, splash pad, and boat rentals. Enjoy a walk along the river trail and a yummy lunch at Neighbor’s Kitchen.

    2. New Braunfels & Gruene 

    With no shortage of family activities and so much natural beauty in this part of Texas, it has become one of my family’s favorite areas to visit. 

    Gruene, TX Gruene Hall

    Places to Stay –

    Things to Do –

    • *Landa Park: This is one of our faves because of the spring-fed wading pool, miniature train, mini golf, 4 playgrounds, hiking, and sand volleyball.
    • *Fischer Park: This 62-acre hilltop park has amazing views, hiking and biking trails, a fishing pond, an outdoor amphitheater, education center, and archaeology dig.
    • Comal and Guadalupe River: Check online for tube rental and river access on these Texas gems.
    • Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre: Spend the evening at the drive-in theater. Check online for kid-friendly movie options and concessions.
    • Natural Bridge Caverns: It’s so much more than just cave tours. There’s zip-lining, gem mining, a huge maze, a ropes course, and the Wildlife Ranch (drive-thru safari park with giraffes, zebras, rhinos, lemurs, and so many more). Buy tickets in advance and start early in the day.
    • McKenna Children’s Museum: This cute interactive museum has indoor fun for preschoolers through elementary-aged kiddos.
    • *Historic Gruene: Visit Gruene Hall for live music, shop the boutiques, stroll along the river, and enjoy dinner at the Gristmill.

    3. Johnson City

    Nestled between Dripping Springs and Fredericksburg, Johnson City features so much of what the Texas Hill Country is known for: rolling hills, stunning views, delicious home-cooking, rich history, and local wine! There’s something for everyone in this tiny town.

    Places to Stay –

    Things to Do –

    • *LBJ State Park: Enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, living history farm, and historic sites, including a museum. Admission is FREE.
    • Pedernales Falls State Park: This state park is a family favorite for exploring, swimming, hiking, and bouldering. (Make day pass reservations in advance.)
    • Johnson City Science Mill: Spend a 1/2 day exploring indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits geared toward school-aged kids.
    • *Lyndon B Johnson National Historic Park: Take a stroll to visit LBJ’s boyhood home, an old schoolhouse, and a history museum. (FREE)
    • *Historic Fredericksburg and Luckenbach: Just a short drive from Johnson City, there are always dozens of things to do in these popular Texas towns. Check the links for live music events or winery visits.

    4. Hunt Area

    I’ve always known Hunt as the location of my childhood friends’ favorite summer camps. As you drive into Hunt, it’s easy to see why it was chosen for their location. The wide-open country and winding Guadalupe River take you far away from home with their beauty.

    Paddle boarding on the Rio Frio

    Places to Stay –

    Things to Do –

    • Garner State Park: This popular state park offers challenging and easy hiking trails, tubing, paddle-boarding, overnight camping, evening activities, and mini golf.
    • *Schumaker’s Crossing: Swim, kayak, or float in the crystal clear waters just east of downtown Hunt. Paddle about 30 min to Ingram Dam to try out a natural water slide, then make your way back to relax and enjoy a picnic at the tables under the beautiful Cypress trees.
    • YO Ranch: Go on a private exotic wildlife tour, take a shooting lesson, or ride horses.. Book in advance for a spot.
    • *Explore Kerrville: You can fill the day visiting meaningful tourist attractions, shopping in the historic downtown, floating the river, and playground-hopping.

    5. Boerne & Bandera

    Both of these towns have their own unique appeal and charm, but they’re only 30 minutes from each other, so you can enjoy both in the same trip. Bandera is known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, and Boerne shows off its German roots mixed with modern Texas flare.

    Places to Stay –

    Things to Do –

    6. Waco

    Still one of our favorite places to visit as a family, we’re always finding new-to-us things to do there. This mid-sized city gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Check out our recommendations in this Road Trip Edition: Waco.

    Magnolia at the Silos

    7. Southwest Houston

    We visit Houston quite often to see family, and we lived there ourselves for a number of years. After raising young children in Houston and going back as tourists, we’ve identified the best spots to spend the day with kids without breaking the bank. Check out recommendations for a few budget-friendly days on the southwest side of Houston.

    Hermann Park Houston

    * Denotes FREE activities

    I hope your family is able to enjoy the best the Texas Hill Country has to offer this Spring Break!

    Not interested in traveling overnight? Try a few of these at-home Staycation ideas, do a tour of the best hiking spots in the Austin area, or venture out on day trips, then come home to your own bed!

    Thank you for reading! Follow Dripping_with_Kids on Instagram or subscribe to this blog to get the best ideas on what to do with your family throughout the year in the Texas Hill Country.

  • 7 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Family

    7 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Family

    And a Few Local Events You Don’t Want to Miss

    I am not a Valentine’s Day person, at least I didn’t think I was for many years. My husband has gotten off easy year after year because I’ve had zero expectations. I usually think of Valentine’s Day as a holiday for the kids and the retailers.

    However, I’ve recognized that my kids and husband truly enjoy the extra special attention during the month of February, so they are slowly turning me into a fan.

    They’re all surprised that this self-proclaimed Valentine Scrooge continues to start new traditions for the “holiday” and carries on the old ones.

    If you’re looking for new ideas on how to fill this month full of love and gratitude with your family, here are some meaningful activities you can do at home:

    1. Lunchbox Love Notes

    Brighten your children’s day by placing heartfelt notes in their lunchboxes. Simple messages like “You’re amazing!” or “I love your creativity!” can boost their confidence and remind them of your love during the school day.

    2. Heartfelt Door Decorations

    Cut out paper hearts and write what you love about each family member on them. Then, decorate their bedroom doors with these hearts, adding one each day leading up to Valentine’s Day. It’s a delightful surprise that reinforces positive qualities and behavior.

    3. DIY Flower Bouquets with Daughters

    Surprise your daughters with a selection of flower stems and invite them to create their own bouquets. They can choose to gift their creations to friends or use them to brighten up your home.

    4. Cooking Fun with Sons

    Invite your sons to join you in the kitchen to prepare a meal or a special dessert. This not only teaches valuable cooking skills but also emphasizes the joy of preparing something special for loved ones, whether it’s for the family or neighbors. The boys can show what they’re made of in the kitchen too!

    5. Community Encouragement

    Spread love beyond your home by leaving encouraging notes at community mailboxes or on stop sign posts. Simple messages like “You are loved” or “Have a great day!” can uplift someone’s spirits and teach children the importance of kindness in the community.

    6. Scripture Memorization

    Dedicate time each day to memorize a scripture verse about love as a family. This practice can deepen your family’s understanding of love and provide meaningful discussions. Verses like 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 or 1 John 4:19 are great starting points.

    7. “Fill My Cup”

    Place cups or jars in a windowsill labeled with each person‘s name in the family. Encourage the other members of the family to slip a little joke, fun memory, or special characteristic about that person in their jar each day. We did this last year, and all of us really loved reading what the other members of the family had to say about us and recognized how well we truly know each other.

    In addition to establishing traditions at home, there are a few local events in Dripping Springs and nearby that are worth your time and money!

    • Galentine’s Event at Shabby Wick: Coming up on Feb 6th at 5 pm, Shabby Wick in Dripping Springs will host an event with giveaways, small bites, featured vendors, and permanent jewelry

    • Daddy-Daughter Dance at Bannockburn Church in Dripping Springs: Scheduled for February 7, 2025, this event offers fathers and daughters a memorable evening of dancing and bonding. There’s as additional option for a Daddy-Daughter Dance at Bannockburn Church in S. Austin on February 20, 2025.

    • Mother-Son Dance through Dripping Springs ISD: Taking place on February 8, 2025, this dance provides mothers and sons a chance to dress up according to a 90s hip hop theme and enjoy a fun night together.

    • Progressive Dinner with a Playground: At 12 Fox Beer on Feb 14th, enjoy a $15 wine and cheese dinner. RSVP ASAP. Bonus: The kids can run off and play while you enjoy your date.

    • Valentine Work and Play Craft Event at Laura’s Library: From 10:30 – 3 pm, kids can craft together and then watch a movie while parents work or read in designated spaces.

    • State Park Events: Take in the beauty of nature together at a state park and learn a skill or do a unique craft with the guidance of a ranger. Various events occurring over several dates in Feb are available .

    I hope these ideas inspire your family to celebrate Valentine’s Day in multiple ways that emphasize love, connection, and community involvement. What are your Valentine traditions?

  • Top 10 Museums in Austin and the Texas Hill Country for Families

    Top 10 Museums in Austin and the Texas Hill Country for Families

    The Austin area and Texas Hill Country are brimming with enriching museums that cater to families, making it easy to combine fun and education. Whether your children are curious middle schoolers or playful preschoolers, this guide highlights the best museums for every age group.

    Below, you’ll find the top five museums for families with kids in 3rd grade and older, followed by the top five museums for younger children. Admission costs, free community days, and links to their websites are included to help you plan your visit.

    Top 5 Museums for Families with 3rd Graders and Older

    5. Science Mill (Johnson City)

    The Science Mill is a hands-on STEM-focused museum housed in a historic mill. It features over 50 interactive exhibits, from exploring virtual reality and robotics to uncovering the inner workings of the human body. This museum sparks curiosity in older kids through its innovative approach to science and engineering.

    Admission: Adults $11.50, Youth (3-18) $9.50, under 3 free.

    Website: Science Mill

    Free Community Days: Check the website for periodic free admission days.

    4. Texas Science and Natural History Museum (Austin)

    This museum provides an in-depth look into Texas’ natural history, including fossils, wildlife, and ecosystems. Highlights include the Hall of Geology and Paleontology and a fascinating collection of Texas minerals. Older kids will love exploring the museum’s detailed exhibits.

    Admission: Adults $8, Children (3-17) $5, under 3 free.

    Website: Texas Science and Natural History Museum

    Free Community Days: First Sunday of every month.

    3. Blanton Museum of Art (Austin)

    Home to one of the largest collections of art in Central Texas, the Blanton Museum includes everything from Renaissance paintings to contemporary installations. Their exhibits encourage older children to think critically about visual storytelling and creativity.

    Admission: Adults $12, Youth (13-21) $5, under 12 free.

    Website: Blanton Museum of Art

    Free Community Days: Free admission every Thursday.

    2. Bullock Texas State History Museum (Austin)

    This museum explores the story of Texas through engaging exhibits on indigenous peoples, early settlers, and the state’s role in space exploration. The IMAX theater offers educational documentaries that captivate kids and adults alike.

    Admission: Adults $13, Youth (4-17) $9, under 4 free.

    Website: Bullock Museum

    Free Community Days: First Sunday of each month.

    1. National Museum of the Pacific War (Fredericksburg)

    Perfect for history buffs, this museum immerses visitors in the events of WWII in the Pacific Theater. Interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations bring history to life for older kids, making it a favorite for families.

    Admission: Adults $20, Youth (6-17) $10, under 6 free.

    Website: Pacific War Museum

    Free Community Days: Veterans Day and Memorial Day.

    Top 5 Museums for Families with Lower Elementary Kids and Younger

    5. The Thinkery (Austin)

    A children’s museum with a STEM twist, The Thinkery offers hands-on activities, from water play to light experiments. It’s perfect for sparking creativity and curiosity in young children while keeping them entertained for hours.

    Admission: Adults and children (2+) $16, under 2 free.

    Website: The Thinkery

    Free Community Days: Every Tuesday offers free or reduced admission.

    4. 7A Ranch Cowboy Museum (Wimberley)

    This charming museum celebrates Texas’ cowboy heritage with fun exhibits on ranching, farming, and cowboy life. Children will love seeing tools, wagons, and cowboy gear up close. It’s a small but engaging spot to learn about Texas history in a family-friendly way. Check the website in advance to find out if the ice cream shop is open.

    Admission: Free with a stay at 7A Ranch; call ahead for museum-only pricing.

    Website: Visit 7A Ranch

    Free Days: Free for local residents on select days—check the ranch website for updates.

    3. Austin Nature and Science Center (Austin)

    Nestled in Zilker Park, this center offers hands-on nature exhibits, live animal displays, and a dinosaur dig area for kids. It’s ideal for young explorers who love animals and the outdoors. Admission is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing.

    Admission: Free.

    Website: Visit the Austin Nature and Science Center

    2. LBJ State Park and Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm (Stonewall)

    Step back in time at this unique living history farm, where kids can see costumed interpreters performing daily chores like churning butter and tending livestock. The nearby LBJ State Park offers trails, picnic spots, and exhibits on President Johnson’s life.

    Admission: Free.

    Website: Visit LBJ State Park and Sauer-Beckmann Farm

    1. McKenna Children’s Museum (New Braunfels)

    This vibrant museum is designed specifically for younger children, with exhibits like a kid-sized town, an interactive grocery store, and an outdoor water play area. It’s a perfect place for imaginative play and early learning.

    Admission: $9.50 per person, Kids under 12 months are free.

    Website: Visit McKenna Children’s Museum

    Free Days: Occasionally offers free days or special events; check their website for details.

    Whether you’re raising future scientists, artists, or history buffs, these museums provide engaging experiences for every age group. Plan your family’s next educational adventure today!

  • 4 Faves: From an Australian Beach Party to Ice Skating in a Western Wonderland

    4 Faves: From an Australian Beach Party to Ice Skating in a Western Wonderland

    Dripping with Kids Four Faves for the Last Month: Nov 23rd – Dec 21st

    This past month has been a busy one, and it’s taken me a while to get back to the keyboard. Our month included travel to the biggest Texas cities, a lot of sparkling lights, and celebrations of Christmas around the world. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas (and beyond)!

    What topped our list this month…

    1.We celebrated Christmas in Australia with a “Beach Party”.

    As a part of our lessons on Christmas around the world, we planned activities related to a summertime Australian Christmas that included sand snowmen, decorating a Christmas bush blindfolded, tasting ginger cookies, learning fun facts about marsupials, searching for Christmas beetles, and coloring nautical ornaments and pictures of Santa on a surfboard. We met friends at the Dripping Springs Sports and Rec Park to take advantage of the sand, the trails for scavenger hunts, and the picnic tables for snacking.

    2. We traveled to Dallas and Waco for unique holiday experiences.

    We filled 3 days full of adventures and Christmas fun on our road trip to the Big D. Check out this link for our itinerary.

    3. We danced beneath beautiful Christmas light displays in Johnson City, Burnet, and Fredericksburg.

    And enjoyed other fantastic features of these small towns as well…

    There’s no shortage of stunning light displays all over the Texas Hill Country! We visited a couple of our faves and tried a new one too.

    The Johnson City Lights Spectacular is mesmerizing, and the town keeps adding more exciting events and displays so you can spend your whole afternoon and evening in the small town.

    Also, Fredericksburg has a unique German take on Christmas with dozens of events every weekend and opportunities to explore shops, restaurants, and wineries before experiencing Weinachtszeit. We decided to climb Enchanted Rock before heading into town.

    Our newest favorite tradition is visiting Burnet for the live nativity, Main Street Bethlehem, and their Christmas on the Square. The live nativity was amazing, and we really felt like we had stepped back in time to the day of Jesus’s birth. The volunteer actors and historic scenery made the experience truly memorable.

    Tip: If you decide to go next year, arrive at least an hour before doors open. The line gets VERY long!

    4. We skated for hours at Western Wonderland.

    With the largest pop-up ice skating rink in Texas, refreshments, live music (in the evenings), and a short trail of lights outside, Western Wonderland is the place to be in Dripping Springs this holiday season.

    4 + 1 More. We enjoyed family and playgrounds in the warm Houston sun.

    My kids usually ask to visit the same parks on each trip to Houston. We go often to see family and made a list of the best parks in the southwest part of H-town.

    Quick stop for a beautiful hike at Bastrop State Park on the way to Houston.

    That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!

  • Top Picks of the Week: Best Christmas Pageant, Camp of the Hills, Family-Friendly Bingo, & Geocaching

    Top Picks of the Week: Best Christmas Pageant, Camp of the Hills, Family-Friendly Bingo, & Geocaching

    Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 17th – 23rd

    This past week included travel to other Texas towns, a lot of outside time in beautiful weather, and a book celebration. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas (and beyond)!

    What topped our list this week…

    1. Book Celebration: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

    After reading the book last week, we went to see the new movie and enjoyed every minute of it! This might be the first time I’ve enjoyed a movie over the book it was based on. I highly recommend taking your kids to this wholesome, nostalgic holiday film. We went on Tuesday for $5 movie day at EVO. Pro tip: call the theater to book tickets in advance and avoid online fees.

    Afterward, we spent hours at the park next to the Belterra Rec Center. We brought a few props, robes, and towels, so all of the kids could act out their own pageant together.

    2. Field Day Fun at Camp of the Hills

    Camp of the Hills is a fun and special place in Marble Falls. It’s a ministry that offers outdoor education and summer camp experiences to children who can’t usually afford it. When the staff isn’t managing summer camps or weekend retreats, they host field trips, allowing kids to participate in some of their camp activities, such as low ropes, archery, camping, foraging, and natural crafts. The money raised during field trips goes toward scholarship funds for future campers.

    This past week, we were able to participate in a field day at Camp of the Hills. The kids did relay races, played tug of war, and tossed water balloons. Reach out to Camp of the Hills if you need a field trip option or a location for a kid-friendly event.

    3. Geocaching: Making and Hiding Our Own Cache

    About a year ago, my kids became interested in geocaching. They fell in love with hunting for treasure and recording their team name on the tiny paper inside each cache they found. After realizing that many of the caches didn’t actually hold little treasures or hadn’t been maintained, they decided to create their own caches, full of mini toys, to hide in our neighborhood and town. We haven’t uploaded the locations to the app yet, but we’ll be sure to share when we do!

    If you’re looking to get started with geocaching, a few of our favorite treasure-hunting spots are Founders Park, DS Ranch Park, Jacob’s Well, and any state park.

    4. Bingo!

    An absolute fave for our family is playing Bingo together, and the best option we’ve found nearby is Friday night Bingo at the Wimberley VFW Hall. Doors open at 6:30 pm. There are 3 sets of games (5 per round) at 7, 8, and 9 pm with big cash prizes. Each round costs $5, but be sure to have a few extra dollars on hand to buy additional cards for specific games. No outside food is allowed, but it’s BYOB.

    That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!

  • Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 10th – Nov 16th, 2024

    Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 10th – Nov 16th, 2024

    This past week included some Texas travel, an out-of-state adventure, and a couple local favorites. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas (and beyond)!

    What topped our list this week…

    1. Quick stroll through San Antonio Botanical Garden

    After cheering on high school marching bands at the state competition in the Alamodome, my youngest and I decided to get a little fresh air nearby at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. We got FREE entry due to our membership at the Wildflower Center in Austin. The SA Botanical Garden is a 38-acre urban oasis that showcases diverse plant collections, a sensory garden, and immersive nature trails.

    Our visit was a quick one, but it was a beautiful stroll that still had unique displays from their Fall events. The staff are now setting up for the 2024 holiday season, which will feature Illuminate that will include glowing tunnels, handcrafted lanterns, and larger-than-life sculptures that blend art, nature, and culture. Illuminate will be open from November 29th through Jan 12th, in collaboration with Tianyu Arts & Culture. For more details and ticket booking, visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s website.

    Japanese Tea Garden

    If visiting the botanical garden, I highly recommend adding on a visit to the FREE Japanese Tea Garden just a few minutes away. Also in the area are the San Antonio Zoo and Brackenridge Park. All of these stops combined make for a fun and full day trip to San Antonio!

    2. Volunteered for Brown Santa

    After three years in a row of volunteering for Brown Santa, it remains my kids’ favorite way to serve during the holidays. Brown Santa is a Sheriffs’ Dept program that provides holiday gifts, food, and other essentials to families in need. Volunteers sort donations, wrap gifts, and distribute items to recipients. My kids and I pray over every box we pack before sending them back into the warehouse. Check the link for auction items or to sign up. There are still openings to volunteer in Austin on weekdays until December 11th.

    3. Learned Japanese History and Practiced Techniques of Japanese Artists

    I cannot recommend Mrs. Suzanne King enough as an art instructor! She teaches art history, painting, and drawing in a way that captures the imaginative and creative spirits of kids and adults alike. The artwork my child has produced since attending Mrs. King’s classes has been colorful, thoughtful, technical, and unique. Reach out to her if you’re interested in group or private art lessons.

    4. Kid-free Getaway to Arizona

    Time with the kids is amazing, and time without them can also be amazing. 😊 My husband and I are spending a few days in Arizona to celebrate our anniversary! We hiked (more like scrambled up) Camelback Mountain, got an amazing pedicure and spa experience at Becca’s Nails, shopped and ate in Old Town, and visited the Grand Canyon South Rim. This time of year is such a wonderful time to visit; the weather is perfection, which makes hiking much less strenuous. We even got snowed on while walking the South Rim Trail!

    If you plan to visit Scottsdale, a great hotel option is Courtyard by Marriott at Salt River. It’s clean, and the staff are kind and helpful. The views are beautiful. The pool area and courtyard are really relaxing. The lobby has great seating, a large TV, a bar and bistro, and hosts nightly events for guests. Most importantly, it’s affordable, making it a good value among many overpriced hotels in the area.

    View from Scottsdale hotel

    That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!

  • Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 3rd – Nov 9th, 2024

    Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 3rd – Nov 9th, 2024

    This past week, we primarily stayed close to home, but we had a few memorable experiences we’d love to share. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas!

    What topped our list this week…

    1. We started our Thankful Tree for the month.

    In the first week of November, when the sugar rush from Halloween has started to subside, we display a hand-sewn wall hanging made by my mother-in-law, and I unevenly cut leaf shapes out of six fall shades of construction paper. Each family member gets his or her own color, and at dinner (or breakfast) throughout the month, we write something we are thankful for on our leaves. It can be big and abstract, like love or faith, or it can be something as small and simple as pencils and paper, which was displayed on one of my preschooler’s leaves many Falls ago.

    I love practicing gratitude with my kids and always look forward to what they’ll write throughout the month. I know the kids love to see what their parents write as well, which always includes compliments about them. If you’ve been wanting to start this tradition but don’t want to DIY it, Amazon has great options.

    2. We participated in a kids’ entrepreneurial fair.

    My younger two participated in our co-op’s annual kids’ entrepreneurial fair, and they had a blast doing it! I couldn’t quite tell if they enjoyed selling or shopping more.

    These events allow young entrepreneurs, often elementary to middle school-aged, to showcase and sell products they’ve created or services they’ve come up with, providing a hands-on experience in business development.

    At a typical fair, each child or team has a booth or table where they display their business with signs, products, and decor. The products can range widely, including handmade crafts, baked goods, artwork, toys, jewelry, and 3-D printed characters. Services, if offered, might include things like chair message, target practice (nerf guns or non-pointed arrows), face-painting, hair or make-up, and tutorials on video games.

    These markets are so fun, but as a shopper, plan to show up with a heart to give. The kids work very hard on their creations and truly hope visitors will show their appreciation for that work with a purchase.

    A few places that host kids’ entrepreneur markets throughout the year are 12 Fox Beer, Suds Monkey, and the DS Library. There is also an opportunity coming up that your child can register to be a part of or just go to shop: The Holiday Kid-Market in Wimberley! Sign up ASAP!

    3. The kids spent hours at Urban Air on a discounted ticket.

    Urban Air is starting to offer more discounts on their tickets. We were able to get 30% off by randomly checking the website, and they are also offering a discounted family pass right now. If you’re not on their regular email distribution list, I recommend getting on it. An announcement will be sent around Black Friday to be able to get $100 in gift cards for $50. (At least, I’m hoping so, as they’ve done that the last three years in a row.) It makes a great gift or offers an affordable way to take your kids a few times during the year.

    4. We built forts and pretended to be pioneers at The Wildflower Center.

    Although the forts at Fortlandia haven’t really kept my children’s attention this year, they still love to go back over and over again to play in the fort-building area and sandpit. We camp out there for hours with friends, especially on a beautiful day! The membership is truly worth it.

    Senior Night! Plus, we’re looking forward to the State Marching Contest, as mentioned in last week’s post.

    That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!