Author: Aly
Christkindlmarket Aurora 2025: Tips for Your Visit
Our family has embraced the tradition of the Christkindlmarket that has become so beloved in the Chicago area. For the last few Decembers (and Novembers) we have been celebrating at the Christkindlmarket at River Edge Park in Aurora, Illinois. We have visited Christmas markets in Germany and Poland, and more recently in Daley Plaza in…
Guide to Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago 2025
Our family visits Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago every year. We love the spectacular light displays (over 3.5 million lights for 2025) and festive holiday spirit. We want to help make this part of your holiday tradition with our top 5 tips for a great visit and information about dates and how to reserve…
Get the Play Disney Parks App Before Riding Peter Pan’s Flight
We have mentioned the Play Disney Parks app in several articles on MouseBrief. We recommend downloading it before your Disney visit, because it offers fresh ways to explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and is a fun way to pass the time in line. But, our favorite use of the Play Disney Parks app—and the reason…
Guide to Wearing Costumes to Disneyland and Walt Disney World
Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World really get dressed-up for Halloween time, and you can too. You can add some Disney flair to your parks attire anytime, and kids and adults alike are especially encouraged to wear costumes to the Halloween parties at the Disney parks. The Halloween party at Disney California Adventure Park (at…
Guide to BOO! at the Zoo and Halloween at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s BOO! at the Zoo! has begun for 2025! It started Saturday, October 4 and continues through October 31, 2025. I originally wrote this post in anticipation of this fun seasonal event, and I am updating it now that we are halfway through October. We are sharing information and tips based on our…
5 Don’ts for First Time Visitors to Disneyland & What To Do Instead
A friend has been telling me how intimidated she feels about visiting a Disney park for the first time. She has the impression that it will involve a lot of preparation, a lot of Disney-specific knowledge, and a lot of money. While she was not entirely wrong about this, it did make me sad that…
