Why National Parents’ Day Is Important And How To Celebrate
We’ve done Mother’s Day. Last month Dads got their special day. Now, this Sunday, July 23rd, it’s National Parents’ Day! You might be thinking – do we really need all…
CATANIA, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: A dad with his infant son in his arms wears a Halloween costume during the “Autumnfest” celebration on October 22, 2022 in Catania, Italy. The logistics facilities of the US Naval Air Station at Sigonella hosted a series of themed activities to celebrate American autumnal season cultural traditions. (Photo by Fabrizio Villa/Getty Images)
Photo by Fabrizio Villa/Getty ImagesWe’ve done Mother’s Day. Last month Dads got their special day. Now, this Sunday, July 23rd, it’s National Parents' Day! You might be thinking – do we really need all these celebrations?
Well, let’s think about it for a moment. Most of us were raised by our parents who did their best to instill values and help us learn and grow, provided a roof over our heads,s and more.
So, it could be nice, if you’re lucky enough to still have one or both of your parents around, to tell them how much you appreciate them!
This day is a day to show or tell our parents how much we appreciate all they’ve done for us throughout the years. This holiday encourages us to spend a little time with our parents to strengthen our bonds and show our appreciation and love.
Looking for some ideas on how you can celebrate the day? Check out some of these ideas from the holiday calendar website!
- WRITE A LETTER: Take some time to pen some words to Mom and Dad and let them know how thankful you are for all they’ve done for you. Express your appreciation and let them know you care about them.
- CREATE A PHOTO ALBUM: You could use a service to do this digitally or you could go old school and get a blank album and fill it with some pictures collected throughout the years. Write some captions or notes to make it extra special.
- MAKE A VIDEO: Capture some messages from you and other loved ones saying some nice things about your parents. Edit it together and send it off to make your parents all warm and fuzzy lol.
- GO OUT FOR DINNER: Give your parents a night off from cooking and cleaning up. Take them out to their favorite restaurant.
- SPEND QUALITY TIME: If you can visit – stop by Mom and Dad’s and just sit and talk. Let them know you care and are thankful for them. A half-hour visit could mean the world to them!
America doesn't lack for having the best amusement parks. Whether you're a daredevil and want to ride the tallest, scariest roller coasters in the world or prefer just eating park food, a day at the park can be a super fun experience.
One great thing about theme parks is that you can usually find one within driving distance. This makes amusement parks a reasonable choice for a family vacation or weekend giveaway, especially if money is an issue. Amusement parks are also great for capturing memories for kids. When I was a child, my family took me to several parks in Michigan, California, Ohio and Florida, so I have great memories from those trips.
The best theme parks also have convenient lodging nearby, making the trip truly seamless. That's not to mention the awesome water parks that are often attached to today's theme parks. Also, even though theme parks are meant for kids, it's obvious that adults can have just as much fun at them, too.
Read on for our list of the 10 best amusement parks in America, from Cedar Point to Hersheypark. All of these are famous for their attractions, food and more. What's your favorite? Reach out to us on social media and let us know.
10. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood is a favorite that's located in the Great Smokey Mountain area. Of course, it's named after the one and only Dolly Parton. If you're a country music fan, this is a must-see stop. Even if you aren't a huge country music listener, it's a great, traditional amusement park.
9. Kings Island, Mason, Ohio
Kings Island Theme Park is a little bit off the radar, but it's a great park. It's known for not only its amusement park but also its fantastic water park. Kings Island features a range of coasters, Planet Snoopy for the kids and more.
8. Legoland, Carlsbad, California
Legoland is simply legendary. Whoever had the idea to make an entire amusement park dedicated to Legos is a genius. The amusement park offers fun rides, live entertainment and more. You'll find a Legoland Water Park, too.
7. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of those parks that you just hear about a lot. I feel like I've been hearing about it since I was a little kid, but I've never been there. Busch Gardens is known for being extremely beautiful and scenic, which is rare for an amusement park.
6. Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California
Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, is another spot that I've had the pleasure of visiting. When I was a kid, my family took me to California to see my aunt, and we went to not only Disneyland but also Knott's Berry Farm. The amusement park has more than 165 rides, attractions and more. They also have fun holiday and Halloween events.
5. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California (and in many other states)
Six Flags Magic Mountain is another huge name when it comes to parks. The spot, located in Valencia, California, is known for its amazing coasters. What's cool is that the park offers a mix of scary-type coasters for the big kids (and adults) and tame coasters for the kids (and wimpy adults, like me). Other Six Flags parks also belong here, too, as the chain has lots of locations across America.
4: Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim, California
If you want that Disney experience but live on the West Coast, then you're much closer to Disney California Adventure Park, aka "Disneyland," than you are to Disney World. I've actually been to both parks, since my aunt lives near Disneyland, and I went as a kid. The park is super fun for those of any age, and it really gives you that Disney movie experience, but in a park. The park has been updated over the years, but it's more classic than Disney World.
3. Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania
If you're in the Pennsylvania area, then you absolutely have to go to Hersheypark. The park, which is owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, helps to keep Milton S. Hershey's legacy alive. Not only do you get chocolate (yum!), but Hersheypark also offers roller coasters, water rides and more fun.
2. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
There is something simply classic about Walt Disney World. It should be every kid's right of passage to go here. I'm fortunate that my parents took me to Disney World twice when I was little. I loved meeting my favorite princesses, but there is plenty to do for adults at the park, too.
1. Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio
Cedar Point is legendary in the Midwest. The park is considered the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World," since it has so many fantastic coasters to ride. If you're looking for major thrills, plus stuff to do for the family, Cedar Point is a great spot. Plus, it's not as pricey as some of the major parks.
