Last Updated on February 9, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Phoenix, AZ — Jurassic Quest, billed as North America’s largest traveling dinosaur experience, is set to return to Arizona with a limited engagement at the Arizona State Fairgrounds from February 6–8, 2026.

The family-friendly attraction features life-size animatronic dinosaurs, immersive walk-through exhibits, and hands-on activities designed to blend entertainment with education. Guests will encounter towering recreations of iconic species such as Tyrannosaurus rex and Spinosaurus, along with interactive fossil digs, dinosaur rides, inflatables, and meet-and-greet opportunities with baby dinosaurs.

Jurassic Quest has become a popular touring event across the United States, particularly among families with young children. The experience combines museum-style displays with high-energy attractions, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. Most attendees spend one to two hours navigating the exhibit.

The event will take place at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, located at 1826 W. McDowell Road in Phoenix, with multiple daily sessions scheduled throughout the weekend.

Tickets and additional event details are available through the official Jurassic Quest website.

• Jurassic Quest Phoenix 2026 – Official Event Page
• Arizona State Fairgrounds – Venue Information
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Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Looking for a Halloween celebration that’s equal parts fun and wholesome? Natural Grocers is rolling out the orange carpet for families this October with their “Spooktacular” event—a free, family-friendly Halloween bash that proves treats don’t have to come with tricks (or questionable ingredients).

Mark Your Calendars: October 25

On Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., participating Natural Grocers locations will transform into Halloween headquarters for kids and families. The nation’s largest family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer is pulling out all the stops with activities designed to delight little ghouls and goblins—without the sugar crash.

What’s Brewing at the Spooktacular Event?

The good4u® Crew has conjured up an impressive lineup of activities that’ll make this Saturday morning one to remember:

Limited-Edition Halloween Bags (and a Chance to Win Big)

Early birds get the worm—or in this case, a reusable Halloween bag. The first 200 customers at each location will snag a limited-edition tote, and here’s where it gets interesting: 20 lucky bags contain gift cards worth up to $50. It’s like trick-or-treating, but with better odds and no costume required.

Kids’ Treasure Hunt

Forget wandering the neighborhood in the dark. Kids can embark on an in-store treasure hunt, solving clues hidden throughout the aisles to discover healthy, spooky goodies. It’s part scavenger hunt, part nutrition education, and all fun.

Halloween Craft Station

Each participating store will host a craft table stocked with materials for kids to create festive Halloween-themed projects. Whether it’s decorating pumpkins or crafting paper bats, there’s something to spark every young artist’s imagination.

A Monster Mash-Up of Savings

The fun doesn’t stop at the event. Through October 25, Natural Grocers is offering “spooky-good” discounts across every department—perfect timing for stocking up on Halloween treats and fall favorites.

Snacks and Treats

Score deals on crowd-pleasers like Annie’s™ Organic Fruit Snacks, Quinn® Snacks Pretzels, Health-Ade Kombucha®, and Natural Grocers® Brand Beef Sticks. These are the treats parents can feel good about handing out—or keeping for themselves.

Bulk Savings

Natural Grocers Brand Bulk items are getting the discount treatment, including Organic Roasted Salted Sunflower Seeds and Organic Dark Chocolate Coconut. Stock up now and thank yourself later when holiday baking season hits.

Supplement Sale

Natural Grocers Brand Supplements are 25% off—a deal that’ll make even the most health-conscious vampires do a double-take. It’s the perfect opportunity to replenish your wellness arsenal before the holiday season kicks into high gear.

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Recipes That’ll Make You Scream (With Delight)

Need inspiration for your Halloween spread? Natural Grocers has released a collection of festive recipes that balance fun with nutrition:

• Caramel Apples – A classic fall treat, elevated
• Cocoa Pear Chips – Crunchy, chocolatey, and surprisingly wholesome
• Vampire’s Pleasure Refresher – A blood-red beverage that’s actually good for you
• Bloody Zombie Mocktail – All the drama, none of the alcohol
• Thai-Inspired Pumpkin Curry – Because pumpkin deserves to be more than just pie
• Gluten-Free Spiderweb Brownies – Decadent dessert that accommodates dietary needs

These recipes prove that Halloween food can be both Instagram-worthy and nourishing—a rare combination in the world of seasonal celebrations.

Looking Ahead: Turkey Pre-Orders

Once the jack-o’-lanterns are composted and the costumes are packed away, Natural Grocers is already thinking about your Thanksgiving table. The retailer exclusively partners with Mary’s Free-Range Turkey® to offer humanely raised, high-quality poultry for the holiday season.

Customers can choose from eight turkey options and pre-order online or in-store. Here’s the kicker: {N}power Members who reserve their turkey by November 2 will receive a $5 reward, valid November 20-26. It’s the grocery equivalent of planning ahead and actually being rewarded for it.

The Natural Grocers Difference

Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers has built its reputation on uncompromising quality standards. Every grocery product must meet strict guidelines—no artificial flavors, preservatives, synthetic colors, or hydrogenated oils allowed. The company sells only USDA-certified organic produce, pasture-raised dairy products, and free-range eggs.

But what sets Natural Grocers apart isn’t just what they sell—it’s how they operate. The company is committed to its Five Founding Principles, including a “Commitment to Community” and “Commitment to Crew.” In fiscal year 2024 alone, they invested more than $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for employees.

With 168 stores across 21 states and headquarters in Lakewood, Colorado, Natural Grocers continues to prove that a smaller-store format can deliver big on affordability, quality, and community connection.

How to Join the Fun

Ready to experience the Spooktacular event? Visit www.naturalgrocers.com to find participating store locations near you. While you’re there, consider downloading the Natural Grocers App to unlock {N}power rewards and digital coupons, or subscribe to the good4u Health Hotline® for recipes, educational articles, and sale highlights.

This Halloween, skip the processed candy corn and mystery-ingredient treats. Instead, head to Natural Grocers for a celebration that’s genuinely good for your family—and your community. After all, the best treats are the ones that don’t come with a side of regret.

The Spooktacular event takes place Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at participating Natural Grocers locations. Arrive early for the best selection of limited-edition bags and to avoid the midday rush. No purchase necessary—just bring your family and your Halloween spirit.

https://stmdailynews.com/dreambreaker-a-pickleball-story-a-closer-look-at-the-documentary-and-its-uncredited-voice/

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Last Updated on October 20, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Orlando’s premier luxury resort destination debuts exciting new experiences alongside beloved seasonal traditions for the 2025 festive season

When you think of Florida in winter, ice skating might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Grande Lakes Orlando is changing that narrative this holiday season with the debut of Orlando’s only resort ice rink, part of an expanded lineup of festive experiences that promise to make this 500-acre luxury destination the ultimate winter escape.

A Sparkling New Addition: Orlando’s Only Resort Ice Rink

Beginning November 27 and running through January 3, guests can lace up their skates and glide across a brand-new outdoor ice rink set beneath the Florida winter sky on The Ritz-Carlton’s Da Vinci Lawn. Open nightly from 5-9 pm, this picturesque rink offers something truly unique—the chance to ice skate in the Sunshine State while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Florida Everglades headwaters.

But the magic doesn’t stop when you step off the ice. Adjacent to the rink, glowing fire pits create the perfect spot to warm up and indulge in seasonal comfort food. From 5-7 pm and 8-10 pm, guests can savor baked brie, roasted apple and pumpkin salad, or hearty chili topped with gourmet fixings—the ideal way to cap off an evening of skating under the stars.

The Return of Fan Favorites

While the ice rink is making its debut, several beloved traditions are making their triumphant return to Grande Lakes Orlando this season.

Winter Wonderland Market

The resort’s charming European-inspired village returns on select dates (December 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27) from 4-8 pm. Guests can wander through quaint cottages showcasing local artisan crafts, holiday delicacies, and seasonal beverages—all while experiencing hourly snowfall that transforms the Florida resort into a true winter wonderland.

Santa’s Teddy Bear Tea

In the Lobby Lounge, families can enjoy an enchanting afternoon featuring a lavish tea selection, thoughtfully curated sweets, live entertainment, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself.

Gingerbread School

For those who love hands-on creativity, the resort’s expert pastry chefs lead guests through crafting their own edible gingerbread masterpieces—a delicious way to create lasting holiday memories.

Magic Show: Holiday Edition

Acclaimed magician and America’s Got Talent finalist Drew Thomas returns with his award-winning colleagues to present an extraordinary holiday magic show. Expect mind-bending tricks, large-scale illusions, and plenty of humor in this electrifying performance (dates to be announced).

Elevated Holiday Experiences

Grande Lakes Orlando goes beyond the basics with several premium offerings designed to make the season truly special:

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• Holiday Cocktail Tour: Sample artfully curated festive spirits and handcrafted libations throughout the resort
• Merry & Bright Tree Delight: Have a sparkling Christmas tree delivered directly to your guest room
• Fireworks & Fizz: Ring in the New Year in The Ritz-Carlton Lobby Lounge with live music, martinis, Dom Perignon, and a seafood tower
• Ritz Kids Night Out Bash: Ages 4-12 can enjoy face painting, s’mores, games, and more
• New Year’s Eve Firework Cabanas: The ultimate al fresco celebration with champagne, caviar, and prime fireworks viewing

Beyond the Holidays

Of course, the festive programming is just the beginning. Grande Lakes Orlando’s year-round amenities ensure there’s something for everyone, including sparkling pools, a dedicated waterpark, a 40,000-square-foot award-winning spa, 12 restaurants and bars, a championship golf course, and expansive outdoor sports facilities—all set within the natural beauty of the Florida Everglades headwaters.

Special Holiday Packages

To make planning easier, the resort offers two attractive packages:

Festive Escape Package: Includes a $100 resort credit per night, valet parking, and four one-hour ice skating tickets per stay.

Grande Escape Package: Provides up to a $100 daily resort credit and complimentary parking—savings of more than $230.

The Bottom Line

Grande Lakes Orlando is proving that you don’t need snow to create authentic winter magic. By combining innovative new experiences like Orlando’s only resort ice rink with beloved returning traditions, the resort has crafted a holiday destination that appeals to families, couples, and groups of all ages. Whether you’re gliding across the ice, sipping cocoa by the fire pits, or exploring the Winter Wonderland Market, this Florida resort offers a festive escape unlike any other.

For more information and reservations, visit www.grandelakes.com.

Grande Lakes Orlando is anchored by The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, offering 500 acres of luxury accommodations and world-class amenities in the heart of Central Florida.

https://stmdailynews.com/dreambreaker-a-pickleball-story-a-closer-look-at-the-documentary-and-its-uncredited-voice/