Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts

Saturday, July 25, 2026

Pokémon Day Out Event in Brooklyn This Weekend Tips






Pokémon fans, catch this amazing weekend of free activities courtesy of the The Pokémon Company in NYC!








Pokémon Day at Brooklyn Bridge Park at Pier 6 is happening right now, and we went the first day to get the lay of the land. Pokémon Day Out is a family-friendly event celebrating 30 years of Pokémon and the What's Your Favorite campaign. Each kiosk includes fun and exciting games promoting the world of Pokémon and their adorable inhabitants!

Expect meet and greets all day of your favorite Pokémon!

Pokémon Day Out is a family-friendly event from 10 AM - 7 PM running from July 24 to July 26, 2026! Reservations are recommended, and can be found here. However, if you cannot snag reservations, there is a shaded standby line. 

If you're coming from Queens, take the ferry from Astoria. There is very limited street parking in Brooklyn Heights.

Pokémon Day Out will make their next stop in Dresden, Germany August 1 and 2. The next stop will be in Mexico City, Mexico on August 8 and 9, 2026.

This is a free event and totally fun for the whole family! If you didn’t get reservations, there is a shaded stand by line. I would recommend coming either when it first opens at 10 AM or later in the day. 

To have the best possible time, I recommend the following:

  • Bring a refillable water jug. There are refill stations throughout the event.
  • Bring hats and/or an umbrella. I would also recoemmend travel fans, I use these fans and they are also phone chargers for my whole family. (affiliate link) My poor son was overheated even though we kept them as cool as we could! The fans are a must!

  • There are food trucks for quick snacks and clean bathrooms.

  • Expect to wait in lines for activations. Some lines move quickly, some are longer. For example, the Nintendo Pokemon Pokopia kiosk was a 40 minute wait. I would recommend making that your first stop, then heading to the other activations.

  • Brush up on your Pokémon trivia! My son won second place and walked away with a great prize! Pokémon Poké Ball Beach Balls from the Pokémon Center.

What to Expect


Once you choose your starter Pokémon, you’ll get a badge and after you complete the challenges you’ll get a sticker where you can “trade” in for a fabulous prize! Expect meet and greets with your favorite starters like Fuecoco, Sprigatito, Quaxley—Pikachu, Snorlax, and Eevee were there too!! You can keep your lanyard.

Marcello won 2nd place in Pokémon Trivia representing Squirtle! Congrats to the winner, Joshua! 

We had the best day! I highly recommend that you go if you’re Pokémon loving family and fans — like us!! 

Thank you to The Pokémon Company for having us today—it was the best day ever!!!! 





Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Stay and Play LEGOLAND New York Resort -- 2026 Summer Vacation Guide

Enjoy two days of play at LEGOLAND® New York Resort for the price one! Hurry! Offer ends soon! 




Celebrate the end of the school year at LEGOLAND® New York Resort, and experience non stop fun from morning until night! 

Friday, May 15, 2026

Celebrating PAC-MAN: The Ultimate Guide to PAC-MAN’s Month-Long Birthday Bash!

The Big Event: PAC-MAN Takeover at The Paley Museum (May 16, 2026)

Get ready to power up, video game fans! Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is pulling out all the stops to celebrate everyone’s favorite yellow, ghost-chomping icon of our childhoods, PAC-MAN, with a new animated shorts series, and activations nationwide.

With this year’s theme, "Connect the Dots," the celebration is bridging PAC-MAN’s legendary past with an exciting future through incredible new storytelling, in-game crossovers, and massive live events.

If you are looking to join the party, here is everything you need to know—including a massive event happening tomorrow, May 16, at The Paley Museum! Get your tickets now!



If you are in or around New York City, clear your schedule for tomorrow! Coinciding with the museum's "45 Years of PAC-MAN" exhibition running through June 7, 2026, The Paley Museum is hosting an epic birthday event packed with exclusive experiences for fans of all ages.

What’s Happening at Paley?

  • Exclusive Screenings & Panel: Get a sneak peek! Catch a special advance screening of the premiere episode of the upcoming animated series, PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks™, alongside an insider panel discussion.

  • The PAC-MAN CHOMPIONSHIP Tournament: Think you’ve got the highest skills? Compete against other players on the classic PAC-MAN arcade game. The top scorer will walk away with a grand prize of a PAC-MAN Arcade Pub Table, and the official title of "PAC-MAN NYC Chompion 2026."



  • Fan Activations: Enjoy classic arcade games, photo-ops with PAC-MAN meet-and-greets, historic gaming artifacts, crafts for kids, and exciting giveaways.

Coming Soon: “PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks”

Can’t make it to NYC? No sweat! You can still join the fun digitally, because Bandai Namco has partnered with the New York-based animation studio Cartuna to create PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks, a hilarious, retro-inspired animated short series making its debut on May 22, 2026.


PAC-MAN's new series is all about new beginnings!  

PAC-MAN leaves PAC-Village behind for the fast-paced, neon sprawl of NEW PAC-CITY, turning everyday life into high-speed, snack-fueled adventures. Naturally, Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde (Team Ghost) are always hot on his tail!



Directed by Noah Pardo, the series features a stellar voice cast—including Mike Cefalo as PAC-MAN and Inky—and is tailored perfectly for digital audiences.

  • Release Date: May 22 (PAC-MAN Day)

  • Where to Watch: The official PAC-MAN YouTube Channel, with new episodes dropping every month. Check out the brand-new teaser trailer right now!

Exciting In-Game Promotions

The birthday perks extend straight to your screens with awesome gaming crossovers and freebies:

Fruit Ninja x PAC-MAN Crossover




Starting May 6, PAC-MAN is invading Fruit Ninja! Players can jump into four limited-time, PAC-MAN-themed in-game events to unlock exclusive themed blades, dojos, and other special rewards.

Free DLC for PAC-MAN WORLD™ Re-PAC

As a special thank-you to the community, a brand-new free birthday costume is being added to Nova’s Costume Shop. Suit up and take on your next grand adventure through Pac-Land in style!

The Celebration is Just Getting Started

Whether you are competing for the crown at The Paley Museum tomorrow, slicing fruit in Fruit Ninja, or waiting for the premiere of Snack Breaks on May 22, there has never been a better time to be a PAC-MAN fan. Bandai Namco has promised even more live events across NYC and Los Angeles will be announced in the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled!

Are you planning to test your skills at the Paley Museum tournament tomorrow, or are you tuning in for the animated shorts?

HAPPY 46th BIRTHDAY, PAC-MAN!

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

5 Reasons Why to Stay On-Site at LEGOLAND New York Resort 2026 Deals and Why You Should Stay On-Site

Double the LEGO® Fun: Grab Your FREE 2nd Day Tickets at LEGOLAND® New York!


Spring has officially arrived, and there is no better way to celebrate the sunshine than by surrounding yourself with millions of LEGO bricks. If you’ve been dreaming of the ultimate family getaway, now is the time to act.


At LEGOLAND® New York Resort, the magic is doubling with an offer that's hard to beat: Free 2nd Day Park Tickets when you book a "Stay & Play" vacation package!


A Family-Tested Getaway: Our LEGOLAND Experience


As a family of four, we recently took our own spring trip to the resort, and I can tell you firsthand: it is a game-changer for parents and kids alike. My husband and I watched our sons, Marcello and Rocco, dive headfirst into the creativity of the park.


The highlight for the boys was definitely staying overnight at the LEGOLAND New York Hotel. We were able to enjoy a day at the theme park, and finish the day at the hotel where there is non-stop fun in the pool (weather permitting), and even more fun inside in the hotel's lobby. If that wasn't enough, your room is a giant LEGO set in a specific LEGO-theme that will be sure to delight the youngest and oldest LEGO fans. We had the LEGO Pirates room with a separate sleep space for the kids supplied with LEGO Duplo, their own Cable TV, bunk beds, and even a daily scavenger hunt with free prizes for each child. 

Why rush through the fun in just one day? When you book a stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel, you aren't just getting a room—you’re getting a fully immersive experience located just steps away from the park entrance.

Your stay includes:


  • Fully LEGO-Themed Rooms: Choose from Pirate, Kingdom, LEGO NINJAGO®, or LEGO Friends themes.


  • Non-Stop Entertainment: From the creative workshop to the arcade and massive LEGO brick play areas, the fun doesn't end when the park closes.


  • Proximity: Forget the long commutes; you're right in the heart of the action.
Hurry! This offer is ending soon. Secure your spring getaway and enjoy that second day of park thrills on the house!


What's new for 2026 at LEGOLAND New York Resort?

Start Your Engines: The LEGO Ferrari Build & Race Experience

This spring, things are revving up! Be among the first to experience the brand-new LEGO Ferrari Build & Race Experience.


Build: Create your very own custom LEGO Ferrari race car.

Test: Put your design to the test on three different test tracks, each with unique obstacles.
Race: Digitally scan your car and race it on a virtual track against other builders to see who takes the checkered flag!


Just Looking for a Day of Play?


If you can’t stay the night, you can still join the fun at an incredible value. This spring, single-day tickets are available for as low as $49! It’s the perfect excuse to get the family out of the house and into a world of imagination.
Ticket TypeBest ForStarting Price
Stay & Play PackageMulti-day explorers & LEGO superfansFree 2nd Day Included!
Single Day TicketQuick spring day tripsAs low as $49
Plan Your Adventure Today


Whether you're looking for a weekend "brick-ation" or a spontaneous day trip, LEGOLAND New York Resort is the place to be this season. Between the high-speed thrills of the Ferrari experience and the cozy comfort of the themed hotel rooms, your family's best spring memories are waiting to be built.


What are you waiting for? Book Your Family Getaway Today!

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue Are Getting Their Own Airplanes

 Red, Green, and Blue Are Getting Their Own Airpla

Get your Game Boys ready—or at least your passports. To celebrate 30 years of pocket monsters, ANA is turning back the clock to 1996 with three new aircraft inspired by the original Kanto region games.



The "Pokémon Air Adventures" project is expanding with three new dedicated jets. For fans, this is a massive nostalgia trip. ANA has confirmed that the liveries for Pokémon Jet Red, Green, and Blue will tell a "cohesive story" across the three planes.





What we know so far:

• Pokémon Jet Red (Boeing 787-8): Will handle domestic routes in Japan.

• Pokémon Jet Green (Boeing 787-9): Will take to the skies on international routes.

• Pokémon Jet Blue (Boeing 737-800): Will cover domestic routes.


ANA Executive VP Keiji Omae noted that many of today’s passengers were the same children who marveled at the original Pokémon Jet in 1998. This isn't just about a coat of paint; it’s about "connecting the world's skies" and bringing a sense of adventure back to air travel.


The full designs will be unveiled in May 2026, but one thing is for sure: catching a flight just became a lot more like "catching 'em 


Whether you’ve been a fan since the first pixelated Charizard or you’re a newcomer through Pokémon GO, these planes are designed to make the journey as exciting as the destination. We don't have the final artwork yet (stay tuned for the big reveal in May!), but expect plenty of Easter eggs and immersive in-flight experiences.


2026 is shaping up to be a legendary year for us Pokémon fans. Who’s booking a flight to Tokyo? Looks like I may have to now!

Monday, February 9, 2026

30 Years of Pokémon: Why It’s More Than a Game for This Gen 1 Trainer

30 Years of Pokémon: From Game Boy Blue to the Next Generation



Can you believe it’s been three decades since we first stepped into the world of Pokémon?

This past weekend, during Super Bowl LX, The Pokémon Company International officially kicked off its 30th-anniversary celebrations with a star-studded commercial that asked one simple yet iconic question: “What’s Your Favorite?”

For me, answering that question requires a trip down memory lane that spans nearly my entire life.



A Journey That Started in 1998

I’ve been a Trainer since day one of the U.S. release in 1998. I still remember the weight of the original Game Boy in my hands and the glow of the screen as I started my journey in Pokémon Blue. That experience hooked me so deeply that I eventually went out and got a job specifically to save up for the Pokémon Yellow Game Boy Special Edition set. There was nothing like seeing Pikachu follow you around on screen for the first time!


My journey didn't stop with my Game Boy. I spent my weekends at Wizards of the Coast, marveling over the booster packs, opening packs to trade and play with fellow budding trainers back when the Trading Card Game (TCG) was at the height of the original craze. Back then, it felt like a community; today, looking back, I realize it was the start of a lifelong passion.

More Than a Game—It’s a Lifestyle

Now, 30 years later, the cycle is continuing. Pokémon has influenced my life in countless ways, but the most rewarding part of this anniversary isn't the nostalgia—it’s the legacy. Today, I get to watch my sons discover the magic of Pokémon for themselves. We love to all play Pokémon GO together as a family. We have a trip planned to go to Pokémon GO Fest in Chicago in June 2026, which is a big deal! Also during that time, the Pokémon Fossil exhibit opens at the Field Museum. You can read more about that event here



Watching my boys build their own decks and get excited about a rare pull from a booster pack reminds me that Pokémon isn't just a video game or a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that bridges generations. When I take my sons to Trade Days, Pokémon card in-store drops, Pokémon GO events, or even trade shows, we meet so many trainers like us. Pokémon has given my older son, Marcello, so much confidence! When he was just six years old, he was diagnosed with PANDAS, which is a neurological disorder that is sparked by strep infection. During that dark time, Pokémon was the only thing that he was actually sure about. He developed Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and during a time of worry, confusion, and just being unsure of himself, he was sure about Pokémon. Now, Marcello is 12 and still an avid Pokémon player. He is out of the woods health-wise, but we still get scares here and there. You can read more about our journey and his heroic story here. At the time of his diagnosis and years after, he did not have a voice. He was always second-guessing himself, but with Pokémon and even Nintendo games, he gained control back of his life. Now, he calls stores on his own asking if they have Pokémon cards in stock. He is working on starting a Pokémon Trainer Club at his school. Marcello has truly evolved -- as a young man and as a Pokémon trainer.




My youngest, Rocco, is eight now and following his big brother’s lead into the world of Pokémon. They’ve become best friends through their battles and card trades—a bond forged in the same world I fell in love with back in the day. It truly is a lifestyle. Rocco who is a spunky kid has always had a voice, but he was always a little shy. He is definitely not shy about Pokémon or playing his video games.

For our family, Pokémon isn’t just a game—it’s the thread that ties our generations together.


The 30th Anniversary Celebration


The Pokémon Company is leaning hard into that "What's Your Favorite?" theme for 2026. Check out the campaign that kicked off during Super Bowl LX, where a new commercial introduced “What’s Your Favorite?” The video can be viewed on the official Pokémon YouTube channelThe Super Bowl spot featured global icons like Lady Gaga, Trevor Noah, and Jisoo, proving that no matter who you are, everyone has a favorite Pocker Monster that speaks to them. 





How you can join the celebration right now:

  • Pokémon GO: A new "What’s Your Favorite?" camera feature is live. You can snap photos with your favorite Pokémon even without an account.

  • Day Out vs. Night Out: Coming later this year, "Pokémon Day Out" will offer family-friendly events (perfect for my boys!), while "Pokémon Night Out" is designed for the veteran Trainers who grew up with the franchise.

  • The Big Reveal: Everything is leading up to Pokémon Day on February 27th, where we expect the biggest announcements for the future of the franchise.


What’s Your Favorite?

Whether you’re a veteran who remembers the  original 151 Kanto Pokémon or a new Trainer that is just starting your journey in the latest region, this year is for you.

For me, the answer to "What's Your Favorite?" isn't just a specific Pokémon—it's the memories of the last 30 years and the ones I’m currently making with my kids. Well, if you must know, I am partial to the Kanto region, so you can see me in selfies with Chansey, Dragonite, Clefairy, Kabuto, Jynx, Mr. Mime, and so many more! 







So, I’ll ask you: After 30 years, What’s your Favorite? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

Monday, January 12, 2026

LEGO x Pokémon: Did They Drop the Poké Ball?

LEGO x Pokémon is Finally Here... But is it a Critical Hit?









The day many of us thought would never come has arrived: LEGO Pokémon is officially live on LEGO.com. I’ve been waiting for this collab since I was a kid, and while I'm a bit torn, LEGO is clearly going big for the 30th Anniversary.

Pre-orders are officially open today (Jan 12, 2025), and the sets will ship on Pokémon Day, February 27, 2026. If you want that GWP, you’ll need to move fast. The LEGO sets are also available for pre-order via the Pokémon CenterThis post contains affiliate links!

The Launch Lineup:

Set #NamePiece CountPrice (USD)
72151Eevee587 pcs$59.99
72152Pikachu & Poké Ball2,050 pcs$199.99
72153Venusaur, Charizard, & Blastoise6,838 pcs$649.99
  • The Bonus (GWP): If you purchase the massive 6,838-piece Kanto starters set (72153), you get the 40892 Kanto Region Badge Collection for free. It’s a 312-piece display case featuring all eight brick-built Gym badges—but it's only available while supplies last!




My Honest Take: Did LEGO Drop the Poké Ball?

I’ll be real—I’m not as hyped as I thought I’d be. Don't get me wrong, the scale of that nearly 7,000-piece starter set is insane, but the attention to detail on the fan side feels a little off.

Case in point: Set 72151. How do you launch Eevee with that set number? In a world where LEGO loves hidden details, that number was begging to be dedicated to Mew (#151). At least the Pikachu set has a built-in "25" on the base to honor his Pokédex number, so they clearly know how to do it! 

Who am I kidding, though? Did I immediately queue up and ADD TO CART? 

What I would love to see for the future!

As a diehard Pokémon fan, and LEGO enthusiast, as well as a parent, I would love to see the new LEGO SmartBrick integrated into this new collab. Why not add the LEGO SmartBrick with the Pokémon Pokédex?


I woud also love to see minifigure size Pokémon with the use of the new spherical brick-built balls that we saw in the LEGO Ideas 21358 Minifigure Vending Machine.




Am I Buying?

Despite my gripes... yes. Because I am a dork and my "gotta catch 'em all" instinct is stronger than my financial logic, I already pulled the trigger on Eevee and the Pikachu/Poké Ball set. I’m holding out hope that this is just the first wave and we’ll see some more affordable, minifig-scale sets in the future.

What about you? Is that $650 price tag for the Kanto trio a "Must Buy" or are you "Crying" over your bank account? Let me know in the comments!

#Pokemon #PokemonLEGO #LEGO #afol #Nintendo #Kanto #PokemonDay

Saturday, January 10, 2026

Mickey’s Search Party: Ultimate Budget Friendly Guide to Disney On Ice in NYC & NJ!

Disney Magic Hits the Ice: Mickey’s Search Party is Coming to NYC!



The magic of Disney is back in the Northeast for their annual winter spectacular of aerobatics on ice! We are no strangers to this beautiful show, and as a Disney family, I have the scoop on how to make your first experience into the best experience imaginable! You can also check out my post from previous years here. You can also check out my money saving tips below!










Get ready to lace up your skates (metaphorically, of course) because your favorite Disney characters are heading back to the New York and New Jersey area! From January 8 through February 1, 2026



Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party will be transforming local arenas into a world of magic, mystery, and high-flying fun.

This isn't just a skating show; it’s an interactive quest. The story follows Mickey and his pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map to rescue Tinker Bell. Along the way, you’ll be transported into some of the most iconic Disney and Pixar worlds. The show features masterfully done vignettes from your favoite Disney and Pixar films like Toy Story, Coco, The Little Mermaid, and more!


What to Expect: Aerial Stunts & Immersive Magic

This production is famous for pushing the boundaries of what happens on the ice. Here are a few highlights you won't want to miss:

  • Coco’s Spirit Realm: Watch Miguel cross the Marigold Bridge into the Land of the Dead with skeletons performing on "sway poles" right over the audience.

  • Arendelle Comes to Life: Elsa’s ice palace is built right before your eyes using stunning video projection technology.

  • High-Flying Heroes: Witness Belle soar into the sky on an enchanted chandelier and Ariel perform breathtaking aerial acrobatics.

  • Pirate Shenanigans: Captain Hook’s pirates bring the laughs (and the thrills) with tumbles, flips, and stunts on "tumble tracks" and stilts.




Tour Dates & Locations

The search party is making three major stops in our area in 2026. Mark your calendars for the venue closest to you:

LocationDatesVenue
Newark, NJJan 8 – 11Prudential Center
Belmont Park, NYJan 15 – 19UBS Arena
Brooklyn, NYJan 29 – Feb 1Barclays Center



Pro-Tips for Families

  • The "Cold" Factor: Remember, it's an ice rink! The arena is usually about 10 degrees cooler than outside, so layers are your friend.

  • Costumes: Fans ages 14 and under are encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters to join the fun. Check out my links and HOT tips for arena-friendly products to bring below.

  • Get Tickets Early: Tickets are already on sale! For the future, if you are a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer, you can snag your seats during the pre-sale starting today!

Quick Link: You can find the full performance schedule and ticket info at DisneyOnIce.com.


Money Saving Tips for Families!


You don't have to break the bank to provide a little extra magic in your seat while watching the show. Here are some tips that I even participated in, because we are on a really tight budget. 




I have scrambled the day of the show in the past, so I know what it's like to try and locate some magic on a budget! A perfect solution if you have less than 24 hours to plan is to get glow sticks! If you have extra time, then check out my picks below! 

If you would like to see what the venu h

Another great tip!


The toys below are also great to hold on to for Disney vacations! I always bring my own bubble blowers with me for the kids for night time parades and indoor shows, and they are happy and none the wiser. 





Spinning Light Up Orb Wands (2-pack), Amazon $17.97




Snowflake Wands (2-pack), Amazon $15.95





Mickey Mouse Bubble Wands, Amazon $14.99

Glow sticks from the Dollar Tree are an easy same day fix! 





Glow Stick Bracelets are easier to manage! Try these instead of traditional glow sticks. Find them on Amazon!



If you live near a dollar store like Dollar Tree or Dollar General, you can find glow sticks for a buck! Glow sticks are easy, low-cost options to add a little pizazz to your view of the show. 

Bags at Arenas


Some arenas have specific policies allowing types of bags inside the arena. A safe bet would be to first check the arena's website, and/or bring a clear bag. A clear bag or backpack allows for quicker pass-through security and alleviates the stress of having to return things to your car. I use this bag that I found on Amazon




Also, bring snacks for your kids, don't be afraid to do that! If kids are happy with their snacks, then there is more money for the parents to buy what they want like ice cream and beer!

Here is a peek of what to expect from our last visit to Mickey's Search Party at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York.


There are kiosks for snowcones with souvenir cups. This is probably the best bang for your buck as you get a snack, and a cup to take home!



You can also purchase photo packages!


There are a lot of fun souvenirs that can be used as light-ups, and you can also purchase shirts to commemorate your experience. 

 






I hope that this post was helpful! If so, then check out my other social media channels where I share videos, photos, and captions outlining more family-friendly experiences! Give me a follow at @PlayLiveRepeat on all social media!

Feld Entertainment®, family owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®Disney On IceMonster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolioFeld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information. 





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