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Once cold weather truly settles in, there’s only so much a light layer like a hoodie or sweater can do to keep you warm. When a fall storm rolls through, or the winter wind whips up, and you’re outdoors without proper protection, you’ll regret not wearing a cozy, insulating jacket. If hiking, camping, or skiing is on your agenda in the upcoming months, we found a fantastic deal on a water-repellent Patagonia soft-shell jacket for 55% off at REI. 

Normally $349, the Patagonia Upstride Jacket is marked down to $157 in three colors right now. That’s a savings of nearly $200 on top-quality outerwear you can wear on repeat every fall and winter for years to come. Choose from a solid dusty mauve color, bright blue with navy accents, or pine needle green with mustard accents, all currently available in women’s sizes XS through XL. 

Patagonia Upstride Jacket, $157 (was $349) at REI

Courtesy of REI

Shop at REI

For comparison, this versatile winter jacket is also on sale at Patagonia, down 50% to $174. Though it’s available in different colors (red, blue, and sold green), REI still has the best price you’ll find on this particular Patagonia jacket. 

Designed for unpredictable weather, this high-performance soft-shell is ideal for outdoor activities where you might encounter snow or rain. It’s made with a 100% recycled polyester stretch-knit face bonded to an embossed knit backer, giving you plenty of stretch and warmth, while remaining easy to layer with other cold-weather gear. 

This jacket is packed with handy features, including a water-repellent finish to shed moisture, an adjustable ski helmet-compatible hood, two oversized external chest pockets that double as vents, an internal zip pocket, and two mesh-lined torso pockets for storage. It’s also got a concealed reflector that can be used to signal for help should you find yourself in need of assistance on a snowy mountainside. 

Shop More REI Jacket Deals

• Columbia Amaze Puff Down Hooded Jacket, From $100 (was $220) at REI
• The North Face Tek Approach Jacket, From $80 (was $160) at REI
• Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket, From $325 (was $650) at REI

Related: Tommy Hilfiger’s ‘Classy’ Puffer Coat Looks ‘Expensive,’ But It’s Under $100 Right Now at Macy’s

It’s not often that you’ll come across a 55%-off deal on cold-weather outerwear of this caliber. Head to REI and snag the Patagonia Upstride Jacket while all three colors are still on sale. 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

There’s something incredibly liberating about reaching a stage in life when you can finally travel wherever you want, whenever you want, without having to coordinate schedules or wait for someone else to book a plane ticket. Plus, not having to compromise on planning an itinerary? Now that’s how you vacation stress-free in your golden years.

And solo travel isn’t just for twenty-something backpackers or digital nomads anymore. More and more travelers in their 60s, 70s, and beyond are embracing the freedom of going it alone, whether that means spending a week soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, wandering centuries-old European cities, or finally checking Japan off their bucket lists.

Of course, there’s one question that tends to come up before booking that first solo adventure: Is it safe?

The good news is that traveling solo doesn’t have to mean navigating unfamiliar destinations entirely on your own. From private guides and escorted small-group tours to river cruises where you unpack once and explore a different city every day, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the independence of solo travel with a little extra peace of mind.

“For a first solo trip in retirement, I look for two things: a place where you feel safe wandering on your own, and a built-in way to find company when you want it,” says Amy Kilbreath, founder of Port and Passport and a Virtuoso-affiliated luxury travel advisor specializing in small-ship cruising for travelers 50 and older.

And according to Brady Bindstat, CEO of Geographic Expeditions, choosing the right destination is only half the equation.

“Traveling solo doesn’t have to mean navigating everything alone,” he explains. “Some travelers prefer the flexibility of a privately designed trip, while many enjoy joining a small group of like-minded travelers, sharing experiences and making new connections along the way.”

So, where should first-time solo travelers in retirement start? We asked seven travel experts to weigh in on destinations that combine manageable logistics, welcoming communities, rewarding experiences, and opportunities to explore with confidence.

Their recommendations span four regions of the world, from the historic cities of Europe to the beaches of the Caribbean. And while no destination is entirely risk-free, these are the places they suggest putting at the top of your list.

Related: These Are the U.S. States Where Solo Travel Is Officially Taking Over

1. Western and Southern Europe Photo by Mark Lawson on Unsplash

Photo by Mark Lawson on Unsplash

If the thought of navigating a foreign country alone makes you nervous, Europe is an excellent place to start, especially destinations where public transportation is reliable, English is widely spoken, and meeting fellow travelers is as easy as joining a walking tour or striking up a conversation over dinner.

“Ireland is probably the easiest first solo trip I know,” says Chip Wilson, owner of MCW Travel and a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor based in Dallas-Fort Worth. “There’s no language barrier and it’s almost guaranteed you’ll be in a conversation within five minutes of walking into a pub.”

For retirees who would rather not tackle the logistics of driving through the Irish countryside alone, Wilson recommends an escorted small-group tour, which offers the added benefit of making new friends along the way.

And Ireland has the safety credentials to back up its reputation. The country ranks fifth in the 2026 Global Peace Index, which measures peacefulness across 163 countries and territories.

Portugal is another standout, coming in seventh on the same index.

“The scariest thing in Lisbon is the hills,” jokes Kilbreath, who recommends the Portuguese capital for nervous first-time solo travelers.

Between its black-and-white mosaic sidewalks, historic trams, and charming tiled buildings, Lisbon is a city that practically begs to be explored at your own pace. Join a food tour to sample warm pastéis de nata and meet other travelers, take a day trip to Sintra or Cascais, or hop on a train north to Porto for a few days of wine tasting along the Douro River.

For something a little more adventurous, Spain offers another compelling option.

Jean Bustinza, founder of Edinburgh-based travel-tech company Viamki and a former tour guide, recommends looking beyond crowded Barcelona to places like Granada, where travelers can immerse themselves in Andalusian culture without feeling overwhelmed by a major metropolis.

The Camino de Santiago is another rewarding experience for solo travelers, particularly those interested in meeting people along the way. With pilgrims of all ages and nationalities walking the historic routes, there’s no shortage of opportunities to connect with others, whether you tackle a short section or a longer journey. Of course, choosing a route and daily walking distance that suit your fitness level is essential.

And if you’d prefer to see several European destinations without constantly packing, unpacking, or figuring out train schedules, Kilbreath recommends a river cruise.

“A river cruise gives you all of that with an easy safety net. Your ship docks right in town, you unpack once, and at the end of the day you come back to the same cabin and a staff who knows you.”

She points to companies like AmaWaterways and Riverside as options worth exploring, with guided excursions and opportunities to venture out independently.

Croatia is another favorite of hers, particularly for small-ship cruising along the Adriatic coast.

“You grab a cabin alongside 18-20 other people, and by the second night they feel like old friends,” Kilbreath says of the intimate yacht experiences she recommends.

Rather than sticking exclusively to Dubrovnik and Split, she suggests exploring the island of Korčula, known for its medieval architecture, fragrant pine forests, and remarkably clear water. One of her favorite memories is dining at the family-run Konoba Maha, featured on Somebody Feed Phil.

Croatia ranks 23rd on the 2026 Global Peace Index, making it another destination with encouraging safety indicators.

2. East and Southeast Asia Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

Asia might seem like an ambitious choice for a first solo trip in retirement, especially if you’ve never traveled somewhere with a different language, writing system, or cultural customs. But according to several of our experts, certain destinations offer a surprisingly manageable introduction to independent international travel.

Japan, in particular, came up more than once.

“Japan is one of the safest places on earth to travel on your own and the trains run like clockwork,” says Wilson, who recommends hiring a private guide for the first few days to get comfortable before exploring independently.

It’s a smart strategy for travelers who want the freedom to wander Tokyo’s neighborhoods, visit Kyoto’s centuries-old temples, or discover traditional gardens and teahouses without feeling completely out of their element.

Japan also ranks 10th in the 2026 Global Peace Index, reinforcing its reputation as a relatively peaceful destination.

Bindstat agrees that Japan deserves consideration, but encourages travelers not to limit themselves to destinations that appear on conventional safety lists.

“For retirees considering their first solo adventure, I always encourage them to think beyond traditional lists of ‘safe’ destinations and consider where they genuinely want to go,” he says.

Whether that means exploring Japan’s temples and historic towns or discovering another part of the world entirely, Bindstat emphasizes the importance of carefully arranged logistics and knowledgeable local guides.

For travelers drawn to Southeast Asia, Bustinza recommends Thailand, citing its friendly locals, cultural experiences, and the relative ease of getting by with English in established tourist destinations.

From Bangkok’s ornate temples and bustling markets to the cultural attractions of Chiang Mai, there’s plenty to explore independently or with organized excursions.

That said, travelers should research individual destinations and transportation arrangements carefully rather than assuming every part of Thailand is equally accessible or safe. The U.S. State Department’s country-specific guidance is a useful starting point.

And remember, you don’t have to choose between a completely independent vacation and a rigid group itinerary. Privately guided sightseeing, cooking classes, and small-group cultural experiences can provide the best of both worlds.

3. The Caribbean

Eden Rock – St Barth

If your ideal retirement getaway involves turquoise water, warm weather, and a beachfront lounger with your name on it, the Caribbean is certainly worth considering.

But which islands make the most sense when you’re traveling alone?

For Michele Schwartz, founder and travel designer at Jet Setting with Me, Grand Cayman and Barbados are particularly appealing options for solo retirees. “Seven Mile Beach is the best beach I have ever visited, and that includes Hawaii,” she says of Grand Cayman, where she also raves about the spa at The Ritz-Carlton, the island’s fresh seafood restaurants, and the unforgettable experience of swimming with stingrays. Her hotel pick? Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, although she gives The Ritz-Carlton the edge when it comes to beach access and spa treatments.

Barbados is another favorite, especially for travelers who want a little more value for their vacation dollars. Schwartz recommends The House, an adults-only boutique resort, and suggests visiting between December and May, particularly mid-April through May, when rates tend to soften. Doni Belau, founder of women-only tour company Girls’ Guide to the World, also singles out Barbados for its healthcare facilities, an important consideration for retirees traveling alone.

Schwartz’s advice for anyone traveling alone? “Go to at least one locally recommended restaurant, since that is where an island’s true flavor lives.” She also recommends arranging private airport transfers in advance and confirming the walking distance between your room and the beach before booking.

While some advisors favor Grand Cayman and Barbados for first-time solo travelers, Andrew Macafee, CEO of WhereToStay, a luxury villa company specializing in the Caribbean, makes a case for Turks and Caicos, particularly for retirees who prioritize convenience and relaxation.

“From easy parking at pristine beaches to welcoming, low-key restaurants where dining alone feels completely natural, it is simply an effortless and comforting island to experience by yourself,” he explains.

Macafee particularly recommends Grace Bay on Providenciales, where travelers can enjoy long morning beach walks, relaxed waterfront dining, and small-group snorkeling excursions that offer opportunities to meet other vacationers.

His accommodation advice is especially useful for anyone traveling alone: Skip the sprawling resort or isolated private villa in favor of a smaller beachfront condo, ideally somewhere with convenient access to restaurants and activities.

And while the island has plenty of appeal, Macafee cautions that Turks and Caicos isn’t necessarily budget-friendly. Dining, accommodations, and rental cars can be expensive, especially when you’re not splitting the bill with a companion.

For those who prefer a more traditional resort experience, Belau recommends Antigua for its variety of activities and upscale accommodations.

Her top picks include Hermitage Bay for its tranquil atmosphere and wellness offerings, Jumby Bay Island for its car-free setting and personalized service, and Curtain Bluff for its live music and relaxed environment.

Antigua also benefits from nonstop flights from several major U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Atlanta, and Charlotte, making it relatively convenient for travelers who want to minimize connections.

Belau suggests visiting between mid-November and April, ideally avoiding the busiest holiday weeks when hotel and vacation rental rates climb.

Then there’s St. Barths, which Leslie Coleman, founder of Suitcase Gals, recommends for its European sophistication, French-inspired cuisine, stylish boutiques, and beautiful beaches.

For travelers who want a little adventure between leisurely lunches and beach days, Coleman suggests exploring the coastline by boat.

“A sailing excursion allows you to explore the coastline from a different perspective, visit beautiful beaches, and enjoy a more leisurely day on the water,” she explains.

Her hotel pick is Eden Rock, the iconic luxury resort overlooking St. Jean Beach.

Coleman recommends visiting between November and February, although she warns that Christmas and New Year’s are especially popular, making advance reservations essential.

Her best advice? Don’t overschedule yourself. Leave plenty of time between excursions to enjoy the beaches, linger over long lunches, and explore the island at your own pace.

4. North America Photo by Carol Highsmith’s America on Unsplash

Photo by Carol Highsmith's America on Unsplash

Who says you need a passport to have the solo adventure of a lifetime?

For retirees who want to experience somewhere completely different without leaving the United States, Kilbreath has one destination at the top of her list: Alaska.

Her reasoning? You get the thrill of exploring dramatic wilderness, spotting wildlife, and venturing well beyond your comfort zone without navigating a foreign language or currency.

“Alaska: the wildest place in America, with the safety net of still being in America,” she says.

Kilbreath recommends making Denali National Park the centerpiece of the trip, particularly in 2027, when the park’s main road is expected to reopen fully following years of closures caused by a 2021 landslide. Travelers should confirm the latest reopening schedule before booking.

Getting there can be part of the adventure.

“Ride the Alaska Railroad in a GoldStar domed car, and when you want fresh air, step out onto the open-air platform with your coffee and keep watch for bears,” she suggests.

Rather than rushing between Anchorage and Denali, Kilbreath recommends spending a couple of nights in Talkeetna, the charming mountain town known for its access to spectacular flightseeing excursions.

Her ultimate splurge? A small-plane flight that lands on a glacier, allowing travelers to step out onto the snow surrounded by some of North America’s tallest peaks.

And if the thought of navigating Alaska independently feels intimidating, there’s always the option of an escorted tour or cruise. Kilbreath even suggests combining a land adventure with a southbound cruise for a more relaxing journey toward home.

Of course, Alaska comes with its own considerations, including unpredictable weather, remote terrain, limited services in certain areas, and wildlife safety. Booking reputable guided excursions and allowing flexibility in your itinerary are especially important.

Still, Kilbreath believes there’s something uniquely transformative about experiencing Alaska on your own.

“Alaska is Eat Pray Love, wilderness version,” she says. “There is something so grounding, so centering about being in Alaska by yourself.”

And perhaps that’s the real beauty of solo travel in retirement. Whether you’re watching the Northern Lights, sipping wine along the Douro River, or enjoying a quiet morning overlooking the Caribbean Sea, there’s something incredibly rewarding about discovering a destination entirely on your own terms.

As Kilbreath puts it, “In that quiet, if you listen, you start to hear yourself again.”

Up next:

Related: Traveling Solo After 55? Travel Advisors Share the 3 Crucial Details to Check Before You Book

When you’re traveling, the last thing you want is to waste time searching for essentials or realize you’ve forgotten something important. From space-saving organizers to clever travel accessories, having a few reliable items in your carry-on makes packing easier and your trip more convenient. Better yet, most of these essentials don’t need to be replenished, so it’s worth giving them a permanent spot in your carry-on.

As someone who covers shopping and travel for outlets like Editorialist, Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper’s Bazaar, I’ve learned that the most useful travel purchases are the ones you reach for time and time again. These 10 carry-on essentials are worth keeping on hand for every trip, whether you’re heading out for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Related: 8 Best Carry-On Essentials for Travelers With Pets

Ceptics 35W Universal Travel Adapter Kit

Amazon

A travel essential you’ll use for years, with multiple outlets and USB ports to charge all your devices in one place. Compact and compatible with outlets around the world, it makes international travel so much easier.

Shop it on Amazon! Compression Laundry Bag

Amazon

This travel-friendly laundry bag keeps dirty clothes separate, contains odors and compresses to save valuable suitcase space. It’s easy to pack, making it a travel essential you’ll use on every trip.

Shop it on Amazon! Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

Amazon

This hanging toiletry bag keeps your essentials organized and easily accessible, even in bathrooms with limited counter space. Its wide opening makes it effortless to find what you need, while the water-resistant material protects against splashes.

Shop it on Amazon! Bloom Nutrition Hydration Electrolyte Sticks

Amazon

These electrolyte packets make staying hydrated on the go easy, with added collagen, protein and essential vitamins for extra nutritional benefits. They’re a must-have to keep in your bag, especially during long travel days when hydration is key.

Shop it on Amazon!

Related: 8 Best ‘Comfy But Polished’ Airport Shoes for Women Over 60 

Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Amazon

This Owala water bottle is an everyday essential worth bringing on every trip. Its leakproof lid makes it easy to toss in your bag, while the insulation keeps your water cold for up to 24 hours.

Shop it on Amazon! BAGSMART Crossbody Purse

Amazon

This lightweight crossbody bag is a carry-on must-have for keeping your essentials within reach while traveling. It takes up minimal luggage space and is perfect for sightseeing when you want to keep your belongings secure without carrying a bulky bag.

Shop it on Amazon! Lotour Travel Toiletry Jars

Amazon

These reusable travel containers make it easy to bring your favorite toiletries through TSA without packing full-size bottles. Each container is under the 3.4 oz liquid limit, while the leakproof design helps prevent spills in your carry-on.

Get it on Amazon

Related: A Minimalist Carry-On Packing List for Women Over 60

Multi Charging Cable

Amazon

This multifunctional charging cable has six charging combinations and can power up to three devices at once, including your iPhone and Apple Watch. Its compact 4-foot design eliminates the need to pack multiple chargers, saving valuable space in your carry-on.

Shop it on Amazon! Trtl Neck Support Travel Pillow

Amazon

This wraparound neck pillow provides firm support to keep your head upright while sleeping on flights without the bulk of a traditional travel pillow. Weighing just 4.5 oz, it takes up minimal carry-on space and helps prevent your head from falling forward during long travel days.

Shop it on Amazon!
4 Piece Compression Packing Cubes 

Amazon

These compression packing cubes help maximize carry-on space by reducing clothing bulk with a double-zipper design. The four different sizes keep everything organized by clothing type, making it easier to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase.

Get it on Amazon

Related: 8 Best Carry-On Essentials for Multi-generational Families

Right now, Shemar Moore is killing it as Hondo on SWAT Exiles, but before that (and before the mothership, SWAT) he took on the role of FBI Agent Derek Morgan on Criminal Minds.

He was one of the original cast members, appearing in 251 episodes of the show. There are always questions about whether he could return, and he’s certainly never said “no.” It’s all a matter of time, schedule, and storyline. After all, when he walked, it wasn’t on bad terms.

Why Shemar Moore Left ‘Criminal Minds’

Moore stepped away for professional reasons, exiting the show in March 2016. He wanted to move onto other projects and focus on creative growth, while also looking at having more time for his personal life. 

He was always open about his exit, making it clear that it was not a show decision. He just believed that his character had gone as far as it could, and it was time to do something different.

LOS ANGELES – MARCH 14: “Red Light” — Caught in an impossible scenario, Reid must square off with an old nemesis, and Derek Morgan (guest star Shemar Moore) comes to the team with a lead that might help catch Mr. Scratch, the elusive fugitive that has been tormenting the team all season, on the 12th season finale of CRIMINAL MINDS, Wednesday, May 10 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Jane Lynch returns as Diana Reid, the mother of Dr. Reid. Pictured: Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss), Shemar Moore (Derek Morgan), Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia)

Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty Images

He quickly walked into another project, showing that walking away after 11 seasons was worth the risk. He took on the lead role of Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson on CBS’s SWAT, which ran for eight seasons, also taking on a producer role. He helped to save the series from cancellation at the end of Season 6, and after its final cancellation in Season 8, he found a way to keep Hondo going with SWAT Exiles.

Outside of work, he also started a family. In 2020, he reconnected with actress and model Jesiree Dizon after the passing of his mother. They had a baby, Frankie, in January 2023.

What Happened to Derek Morgan on ‘Criminal Minds’

To make sure the door was open for Moore to return and to honor the beloved character, Morgan was written out of Criminal Minds with an epic and personal storyline. Shortly before his exit, he was captured and horrifically tortured by an UnSub, and everyone worried that the show would kill off the character.

However, he was able to escape the ordeal, killing his tormentors and getting back to focusing on his family. After all, he had a wife, Savannah, and their unborn child to get back to. Just two episodes later, Savannah was shot.

“Hit” / “Run” — Morgan (Shemar Moore), Det. William LaMontagne Jr. (Josh Stewart), JJ (A.J. Cook) and Prentiss (Paget Brewster) try to foil a gang of serial killing bank robbers in Washington, D.C., as the BAU team tries to negotiate the situation unfolding inside the bank, on the two-hour seventh season finale of CRIMINAL MINDS, Wednesday, May 16 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. #GoodbyePrentiss

Monty Brinton/CBS via Getty Images

She survived, giving birth to their son Hank, and Morgan realized that it was time to move into a different field of work. He knew his line of work wasn’t safe for his family, so he opted to quit the BAU.

Moore has already returned a couple of times. The first time was during Criminal Minds Season 13, when he helped give Garcia some emotional support on a traumatic case. Then, over the course of the next two seasons, he had brief appearances via flashbacks and dream sequences. The door is open for him to return on Criminal Minds: Evolution, but schedules need to work out.

For now, you can catch Moore on SWAT Exiles on Fridays on Starz.

Kym Johnson-Herjavec opened up about her return to Dancing with the Stars—and the vibe at the judges’ table. The veteran pro dancer, who won two Mirrorball trophies on the ABC dancing competition, returned to the ballroom as a guest judge for Season 35’s Dedication Night and weighed in on the headline-making exchange between Jenna Johnson and judge Carrie Ann Inaba.

“The judges are there to do a job and they’re going to give their critique,” Johnson-Herjavec, 50, told Us Weekly. “I never spoke back, back in the old days. If Len [Goodman] said something, I’d be like, ‘OK.’”

“But you know, if you do a lift and you don’t think you do, I think it was fine for Jenna to be like, ‘A lift?’ because she was probably confused about what it was,” the dancer continued. “I think she said it in a very nice way.”

During Season 35’s Super Bowl Night, Inaba called out Johnson for an illegal lift in her samba with actor Harry Shum Jr. after two male dancers lifted Shum.

“You need to put more content into your dances,” Inaba said. “And there was a lift.”

“A lift?” Johnson asked, as Inaba read the rule from a piece of paper: “A lift is any movement during which one of the dancers has both feet off the floor at the same time with the assistance or support of their partner. Yeah, lift,” she said.

Johnson took the criticism well, telling Extra after the show, “Usually when someone’s called out for a lift, it’s when your partner lifts you. So I was definitely unaware of, like, two guys that weren’t myself, rolling back Harry and lifting him. But I absolutely hear Carrie Ann.”

RELATED: Brandon Armstrong Says Ciara Miller’s DWTS Dedication Night Dance Would Have Been ‘Unbelievable’

Still, the incident caused a major ruckus with DWTS pros past and present.

Former DWTS pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy told The Viall Files podcast that Inaba’s lift call was wrong because it was performed by troupe members, not by Johnson.

In a TikTok video, longtime pro Gleb Savchenko agreed, noting that the lift “wasn’t done in the couple.” He also called Inaba “the lift police of Dancing With the Stars,” but added that she was just doing her job.

In a video posted to Instagram, original Dancing with the Stars pro Louis Van Amstel said that while he agreed with Inaba’s call, she wasn’t always “consistent” with using the rule.

In addition, Johnson’s husband, Val Chmerkovskiy, was suspended from the competition for a week after posting a controversial social media comment aimed at Inaba. He has since apologized.

The lift drama was put aside for the Dedication Night that Johnson-Herjavec participated in.

Speaking with Us, the Australian dancer described Dedication Night as very “positive.”

“Everyone was like, ‘Let’s make this about the celebrities and who they’re dedicating the dance to,’ and Carrie Anne’s like, ‘Yeah, that’s what tonight is about,’” she shared. “So it felt very joyous, and there was a lot of love in the ballroom that night.”

Related: DWTS’ Gleb Savchenko Defends His Comments About Alan Bersten: ‘I Didn’t Attack Him’

Every two weeks, roughly 2.1 million associates collect a paycheck from the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retail giant. About 1.6 million of them work in the U.S., where the average hourly field associate now earns $18.25.

Added together, workforce estimates put the company’s yearly pay to employees at more than $90 billion, a number that traces back to a boy doing chores to help his family get by.

Sam Walton was born on March 29, 1918, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, and grew up in small Missouri towns as the Great Depression squeezed families across the country. He milked the family cow, bottled the extra milk and drove it to customers. Then he worked a paper route delivering the Columbia Daily Tribune and sold magazine subscriptions on the side.

The hustle didn’t stop in college. At the University of Missouri, he delivered newspapers and waited tables to cover his costs. After graduating in 1940, he joined J.C. Penney as a management trainee.

Following his Army service in World War II, he bought a Ben Franklin variety store in Newport, Arkansas, in 1945. When the landlord refused to renew the lease, Walton moved to Bentonville and opened Walton’s 5 and 10 in 1950.

On July 2, 1962, he opened the first Walmart in Rogers, Arkansas. His bet was simple: keep prices low and make it up in volume.

That approach now drives a business that brought in $713 billion in revenue in fiscal 2026. The company’s minimum for store associates is $14 an hour, supply chain workers average $27 an hour, and the average store manager earned more than $117,000 in fiscal 2025. The median employee’s total compensation last fiscal year was $30,520.

Walton died on April 5, 1992, at age 74.

The ladder he climbed still exists inside the company, too. The average first promotion comes within nine months, and about 75% of salaried store managers started out in hourly roles.

Long before Andy Griffith became synonymous with the fictional town of Mayberry, he was just a kid in Mount Airy, N.C., looking for a cheap lunch.

Luckily for him, there was Snappy Lunch.

The tiny Main Street diner opened in 1923, when George Roberson and Deuce Hodge began serving the workers and students of Griffith’s hometown. Back then, the menu included 5-cent bologna sandwiches and hot dogs for a dime.

Related: Babe Ruth’s Favorite Meal Is Still Served Nearly 100 Years Later at ‘Florida’s Oldest Restaurant’

Griffith was among the local students who regularly stopped in. With nearby schools yet to have cafeterias, Snappy Lunch offered an affordable place to grab something to eat—and the future TV legend apparently took advantage.

Years later, Griffith recalled getting a hot dog and a bottle of pop there as a boy. Former owner Charles Dowell also remembered Griffith eating at the restaurant while attending high school nearby.

Of course, Griffith eventually left Mount Airy for Hollywood, where The Andy Griffith Show premiered in 1960. But he didn’t completely leave his old lunch spot behind.

Snappy Lunch was mentioned by name on the series when Sheriff Andy Taylor suggested to Barney Fife that they head there for a bite. According to the restaurant, that makes it the only still-existing Mount Airy business ever mentioned on the show.

By coincidence, 1960 was also a big year back home.

Related: Dolly Parton’s Favorite Meal Is Still Served at the California Restaurant She Visited for Decades

Dowell, who started working at Snappy Lunch doing odd jobs in 1943 for $10 a week, became its sole owner that year. Around the same time, he developed the dish that would eventually become far more famous than those dime hot dogs: the pork chop sandwich.

The messy creation starts with tenderized boneless pork loin dipped in homemade batter and fried before being piled onto a bun. The classic version comes loaded with coleslaw, mustard, chili, onion and tomato.

It remains the diner’s signature more than six decades later.

The restaurant itself has shown similar staying power. Snappy Lunch remains at 125 N. Main St., the same location where it opened more than a century ago. Its longevity has made it both a nostalgic diner and a tangible piece of the real-life Mount Airy that helped inspire the vision of Mayberry.

Related: Elvis Presley’s Favorite Meal Is Still Served at This Southern Drive-In Nearly 70 Years Later 

Griffith died in 2012 at 86, but his connection to his hometown—and his old lunch haunt—has stood the test of time.

The prices, naturally, haven’t followed suit.

Don’t expect a 10-cent tab.

In 1977, Bad Company’s fourth studio album, Burnin’ Sky, kicked off with a title track that has an interesting backstory. Recorded in France at Château d’Hérouville during the summer of 1976, per Rhino Records, the title tune was recorded on the fly without its lyrics in place.

Written by Paul Rodgers, “Burnin’ Sky” features a repetitive, blues-driven guitar riff and a chorus that declares, “The sky is burnin’ /I believe my soul’s on fire/You are, I’m learning/ the key to my desire.” It became a radio favorite at the height of Bad Company’s 1970s fame.

Ultimate Classic Rock ranked “Burnin’ Sky” among the Top 10 Bad Company Songs of all time, noting that Rodgers went into the Paris studio “with chords and the basic song idea” in mind, but no lyrics. “They recorded the song in one take with Rodgers making up the lyrics as he went along, working off only a chorus idea that he had in his head,” the outlet shared.

Rodgers once looked back on the spontaneous studio session, telling UCR in 2016 that he was “making up songs on the spot” for the album recorded 40 years prior.

“Particularly, I remember with ‘Burnin’ Sky’ being in the hotel the night before, because I would go into Paris for the weekend,” he recalled. “I had the chorus and I thought, ‘Wow, do some rhythm chords, like some verse chords.’ I took that into the studio and I had no verses for it.”

“I didn’t know what the song was about,” he continued, “and I played the guys the song, and they picked up on it, like, ‘Great, I love the chorus!’ I’m going, ‘Yeah, you might like the chorus, but I haven’t got any verses yet.’ But I didn’t say that, and they pushed the red button and I just went, ‘Waiting for the van to arrive.’ I just made this whole story up on the spot and we recorded it.”

Despite Rodgers’ proven knack for spontaneous songwriting, it wasn’t something he did often—or ever again. In an interview with Music Radar, he noted that while he wrote “Burnin’ Sky” “in the studio while we were recording it,” he added, “I’d never done that before or since.”

“That was an inspired moment,” he said.

Nearly 50 years after its release, “Burnin’ Sky” remains one of Bad Company’s most memorable cuts, an impromptu classic that has stood the test of time.

Related: 1974 Bad Company Ballad, Written on the Beach, Is Still a Classic Rock Gem 52 Years Later

Whenever I go out for breakfast, there’s a good chance I’m ordering hash browns. I love a good stack of pancakes or a plate of eggs and bacon, but there’s something about crispy, golden potatoes that I just can’t resist. Give me a generous serving of hash browns with a little Cholula hot sauce, and I’m a happy camper.

At home, though, it’s a different story. I don’t make hash browns nearly as often as I order them at restaurants. As much as I love them, peeling and shredding potatoes isn’t how I want to spend my morning, especially when I’m trying to get breakfast on the table. That’s where frozen hash browns come in. They’re convenient, affordable and take most of the work out of making one of my favorite breakfast foods.

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For years, I had a go-to frozen brand that I’d pick up without giving the others much thought. But with so many options in the freezer aisle, I started wondering whether I was missing out on something better. After all, there’s no shortage of choices, from household names like Ore-Ida to grocery store brands that cost just a few bucks.

So, I picked up six different frozen varieties to see which ones were worth buying and which would be crowned the best frozen hash brown. I cooked them up, tasted them side by side and ranked them from worst to best. Here’s how they stacked up.

Our Testing Criteria: How We Rated Crispiness, Texture and Flavor

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For this taste test, I stuck with frozen hash brown patties rather than mixing in shredded or diced varieties, which would have made comparing them a little tricky.

I judged each brand on three things: crispiness, texture and flavor. A good hash brown should have a golden, crunchy exterior, but the inside is just as important. I wanted potatoes that were tender and cooked evenly, without being too firm or mushy.

Flavor was another big factor. I looked for a noticeable potato taste and enough seasoning to make each patty enjoyable on its own. I don’t mind adding a little salt, but I also don’t want to reach for a glass of water after every bite.

I also considered how well each hash brown would work as part of a breakfast. After all, you might be eating yours alongside eggs and bacon, stuffing it into a breakfast sandwich or enjoying it with nothing more than a little ketchup. The best ones should be good enough to stand on their own.

Related: I Tried 14 Fast-Food Fries to Find the Best—and the Winner Won by a Landslide

The Complete Frozen Hash Brown Ranking (Worst to Best)

Here’s my ranking of all six frozen hash brown brands, starting with my least favorite and working up to the best one in this taste test.

6. Trader Joe’s Hash Browns

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

This one hurts a little. I used to practically live off Trader Joe’s hash browns, so I went into this taste test expecting them to do pretty well. Unfortunately, after trying them alongside five other brands, they ended up at the bottom of my list.

The exterior got nice and crispy, which is exactly what I wanted. But when I took a bite, the inside was a little firmer and less tender than I’d hoped. The difference was especially noticeable compared to some of the other brands, which had softer, fluffier interiors.

I’ve enjoyed these plenty of times before, so I was disappointed with how they compared. They’re still a decent option, but after this taste test, I have a few other brands I’d reach for first.

5. Great Value Hash Brown Patties

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Walmart’s Great Value hash browns were perfectly fine, although they didn’t give me much to get excited about. They crisped up nicely in the air fryer, and the interior cooked evenly, so I had no real complaints about the texture.

The salt was one of the first things I noticed. They weren’t overly salty, but the seasoning seemed more pronounced than in some of the other brands. Beyond that, the flavor was pretty straightforward, without much that made these stand out.

That said, these are perfectly serviceable hash browns. I’d happily eat them with eggs and bacon or tucked inside a breakfast sandwich. They just didn’t stand out enough to earn a higher spot.

4. Ore-Ida Crispy Hash Brown Patties

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

I noticed something different about Ore-Ida’s hash browns almost immediately. They had a more pronounced savory flavor than the others, which made me curious enough to check the ingredients. Sure enough, dehydrated onion was listed, and I suspect that’s what I was tasting.

I actually liked the extra flavor. They were also well-seasoned, although a little saltier than I generally prefer. The exterior got nice and crispy, but the inside was firmer than I expected, even after following the cooking instructions.

Honestly, these almost edged out McCain for third place because I enjoyed the seasoning so much. In the end, though, I preferred McCain’s softer interior. Still, Ore-Ida makes a tasty hash brown, especially if you like yours with a little more flavor right out of the package.

3. McCain Quick Cook Hash Brown Patties

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

McCain’s Quick Cook hash browns didn’t have any special seasoning or especially distinctive flavor, but I really enjoyed them. The outside got crispy, the inside was soft and tender, and everything cooked pretty evenly. What more could I ask for?

Well, maybe a little more salt. These were slightly underseasoned for my taste, although I’d much rather have that than a hash brown that’s too salty. You can always sprinkle on a little extra salt or add your favorite condiment.

Otherwise, I had a hard time finding anything wrong with these. They tasted like a classic hash brown should, with a good balance of crispiness and soft potato inside. They’re a solid choice, and I’d gladly buy them again.

Related: I Tried the 15-Minute ‘Dump-and-Bake’ Pizza Casserole You Need for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

2. Market Pantry Frozen Crispy Hash Brown Potato Patties

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Target’s Market Pantry hash browns really impressed me. They had a wonderfully crispy exterior, and the inside cooked evenly, with a nice, soft potato texture. I also appreciated that they actually tasted like potatoes rather than just salt.

The seasoning was fairly mild, but I didn’t mind that at all. There wasn’t anything overpowering about them, and I could easily eat one on its own without reaching for hot sauce.

Another thing I liked was the wider patty shape. I could see these working especially well in a breakfast sandwich with an English muffin, egg and cheese.

Overall, there wasn’t much to complain about. The flavor, texture and crispiness were all excellent, and these came very close to taking the top spot.

1. Signature Select Lightly Seasoned Hash Brown Patties

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

And the winner is…Albertsons’ Signature Select hash browns! I wasn’t expecting these to be my favorite, but after tasting all six brands, they were the ones I preferred.

The first thing I noticed was how crispy they got. They’re relatively thin, which I think helped them cook evenly, and the interior was just about perfect. It was soft and tender but still had some texture from the shredded potatoes. Nothing felt too firm or mushy.

The seasoning was another big plus. These had just the right amount of salt for my taste, allowing the potato flavor to come through without needing anything extra. I also liked the wider patty shape, which would be great for burritos or sandwiches.

There really wasn’t anything I wanted to change about these. They had the crunch, flavor and texture I was looking for, and I’d happily eat them again. For me, they’re the best frozen hash browns of the bunch.

The #1 Mistake Ruining Your Frozen Hash Browns

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One of the easiest ways to ruin frozen hash browns is by overcrowding the skillet or air fryer basket. I know it’s tempting to squeeze in an extra patty or two, especially when you’re making breakfast for the whole family, but giving them enough room to cook makes a big difference.

When hash browns are packed too closely together or overlapping, moisture can get trapped, leaving you with soggy potatoes instead of that crispy, golden exterior. For the best results, arrange them in a single layer with a little space between each patty. If you’re making a big batch, cook them in rounds.

Also, don’t assume a crispy exterior means they’re ready. As I discovered during my taste test, some brands can brown nicely on the outside while the potatoes inside still need a little more time. Follow the package instructions, but check that the center is cooked through before serving.

Skillet vs. Air Fryer: What’s the Best Way to Cook Frozen Hash Browns?

Jen Tepp / Getty Images

I’ve made frozen hash browns both ways, but these days, I almost always go with an air fryer. It’s quick, requires little cleanup, and gets the outside nice and crispy without needing additional oil. Most frozen hash brown patties already contain oil, so you can usually pop them straight into the basket and let the air fryer do its thing.

That said, there’s a reason diners cook hash browns on a griddle. A skillet gives you more control over the browning, and a little oil helps develop that golden, crunchy crust. The downside is that you have to keep an eye on them, flip them and clean up afterward.

For everyday breakfasts, the air fryer gets my vote. Just make sure to arrange the patties in a single layer and check the center before serving. As I learned during this taste test, a crispy exterior doesn’t always mean the inside is fully cooked. Some brands may need an extra minute or two to get there.

Final Thoughts

My biggest takeaway is to not overlook store brands. Some of my favorites ended up being the least expected, showing that you don’t have to spend more to get a great hash brown. If you’ve been buying the same brand for years, it might be time to try something new.

Related: I Tried the Italian Way of Making Soup 10x Better

If you’ve spent any time looking for durable luggage that doesn’t cost an entire paycheck, you’ve probably seen Quince everywhere lately. The brand has built a huge following for making sleek, sturdy hardshell bags that hold up to airport abuse without the $300-plus price tag.

As a travel editor who has road-tested just about every viral carry-on on the market this year, Quince is the one I consistently keep reaching for in my closet. It nails that tricky, exact-right balance of being featherlight while still letting me cram an entire week of clothes into the overhead bin without bursting a zipper. The interior compression system actually holds everything down flat, and the spinner wheels glide effortlessly across uneven terminal carpets.

Plus, I’ll admit it: the aesthetic gets me every time. Quince rolls out a steady stream of ever-changing seasonal color drops—from rich jewel tones to earthy neutrals—and it makes my dopamine receptors incredibly happy when I can coordinate my suitcase with my travel outfit. Traveling is stressful enough, so having gear that feels cheerful, elevated, and functional before you even board is a huge win.

Now, right as everyone starts gearing up for the holiday travel rush, Quince just rolled out a batch of holiday bundles that come with some genuinely great freebies and discounts.

Related: Quince’s Viral $275 Aluminum Carry-On Is the Ultimate Rimowa Alternative

Quince

The biggest head-turner is on their medium check-in suitcase. If you buy the medium roller, you can add one of their water-resistant neoprene toiletry bags to your order for just $1. The bag normally sells for $35, so getting a durable, easy-to-clean organizer for four quarters is an absolute steal, especially if you’re trying to keep shampoo bottles and lotions from exploding all over your clothes in transit.

Related: Quince Just Dropped Its Signature Carry-On in a Rich Neutral Colorway

Quince

If you’re strictly a carry-on traveler, they’ve also paired their best-selling carry-on roller with their Mongolian cashmere wrap, knocking $50 off the total. Anyone who has ever sat on a freezing airplane knows that a good, oversized wrap is basically a wearable blanket that saves you from fighting for the overhead air vent controls. Being able to bundle the suitcase with a classic layer you’ll wear all winter is a no-brainer.

Related: 11 High-Quality Quince Essentials for Your Winter Travel Rotation

Quince

Quince is also taking an extra 10 percent off its packing accessories, including their popular packing cube sets. If you’ve never used packing cubes to organize a week of outfits into neat, compressed stacks, they really do take all the chaos out of living out of a suitcase.

Between the smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels, interior compression straps, and built-in TSA locks, the bags are already reliable workhorses. But if you were planning on updating your luggage before Thanksgiving or Christmas anyway, getting a high-end wrap on sale or a $1 travel kit makes this one of the few holiday promos that’s actually worth jumping on.

Related: Quince is Having a Rare Fall Sale and a Ton of Top-Rated Travel Staples Are On It

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If you’ve been searching for a quick and affordable way to declutter your bedroom, bathroom, entryway, or living space, Walmart has a smart solution that’s currently over 30% off. The Gunaito LED 5-Drawer Dresser is now on sale for just $48, down from $72, in two colors, and it offers ample storage space to stash clothing, toys, linens, accessories, and more. 

The versatile dresser comes in dark black and classic white, making it easy to match with any style of decor, from minimalist to farmhouse to mid-century modern. At 16 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 40 inches high, it has a tall, slim frame that’s designed to fit effortlessly in small spaces, including tight corners, narrow hallways, and more.  

Gunaita LED 5-Drawer Dresser, $48 (was $72) at Walmart

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Made with a thickened steel frame, the sturdy dresser has five large fabric drawers ideal for storing clothes, books, towels, and other essentials. Each drawer is constructed from high-quality non-woven material that’s durable and long-lasting, with a sleek round knob that allows for effortless opening and closing. The large wooden top offers additional space to display alarm clocks, candles, and photo frames, while the top shelf has a built-in charging station with two outlets, two USB ports, and a 1.5-millimeter power cord to easily charge up your devices. 

The dresser also features LED lighting with 20 colors and five adjustable speeds, allowing you to set the mood of your room through a mobile app. The lights can sync to your music to create a fun atmosphere, or you can keep them stationary and use them as a handy bedside lamp. Assembly is also simple. It comes with detailed instructions, an anti-tilting device, and adjustable feet to prevent floors from scratches or other damage. 

The Gunaita dresser is a Walmart bestseller, with over 800 five-star ratings online. Multiple reviewers praised the “sleek” and “modern” design. One reviewer said it adds “stylish, functional, and easy-to-assemble storage” to any space. Others also highlighted the spacious yet narrow build, calling it “perfect for small rooms.”

Related: Walmart’s ‘Cozy’ Color-Changing Lamp Is a Cute, Budget-Friendly Pick for Mood Lighting

With its clean, simple look, compact frame, and useful built-in features, this LED five-drawer dresser makes a versatile and practical storage solution for any home. Make sure to snag one (or two!) while it’s still on sale for under $50 at Walmart. 

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If interior design isn’t under your list of skills, then your best bet is to turn to moguls that know exactly how to fill a room with effortlessly chic pieces. Martha Stewart, Drew Barrymore, for example, have affordable home collections at big retailers, so we’re always on the lookout for their sleekest offerings. The Martha Stewart Perry Street Sadie Round Side Table at Wayfair is our latest favorite find, and it’s up to 55% off for October’s Way Day event.

The table originally cost $110, but has been reduced to just $76 in the walnut brown hue. The furniture is also being sold in a stunning beige color, which is perfect for minimalist and modern-style homes. We love the brown for farmhouse- and country-inspired homes because it  looks slightly distressed yet luxurious. The table is 24 inches tall, 22 inches wide, and 22 inches long, so it’s a standard size that allows you to place it anywhere. 

Martha Stewart Perry Street Sadie Round Side Table, From $76 (was $167) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

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The table only weighs around 22 pounds, so you can easily maneuver as you please. The beauty of this style is that it can support over triple that weight — 75 pounds — so you can place bulky decor pieces on it, like vases, table lamps, and coffee table books, to make it look ultra-chic. The roundtop table features a sculpted four-legged pedestal base, which adds a “unique” geometrical element to any space. 

The material is composed of solid and manufactured wood, leaving an unfinished yet clean look that offers dimension next to a couch or accent chair. Since there are plastic glides on the base to prevent floor scratches, you can even move it to the bedroom to use as a nightstand. You will have to assemble the table when it arrives, but shoppers said that it was “easy” to put together.

Other customers wrote that the versatile table is “well-made,” “very pretty,” and “sturdy.” What reviewers really like is the fact that the table is so affordable but looks designer. If you’re not in love with this side table though, but enjoy Martha Stewart’s home designs, you can check out the television personality’s other high-quality offerings. This vintage-inspired floral bedding set is so fresh and cozy, while this gorgeous leaf mirror is the perfect artistic accent piece. 

This beautiful side table will elevate your space instantly, whether you decorate it or let the piece speak for itself. Plus, a fall-inspired plant would look stunning against the natural wood. Take advantage of Wayfair’s 55% off deal while you can! 

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Bringing a bit of glam to your everyday life, Dolly Parton’s home goods line pairs thoughtfully designed essentials with the superstar’s signature style. From bejeweled platters and accent plates to dazzling drinkware, it’s filled with charming staples that are perfect for entertaining. The collection’s prettiest pieces are flying off shelves, with prices on the icon’s pink kitchen essentials starting just $9, making them a top pick to stock up on ahead of holiday gatherings.

Even if your wedding colors weren’t blush and bashful, you can still appreciate the practicality of these gorgeous rosy pink utensils. Each tool features a weighted stainless steel handle for easy handling and control, is dishwasher-safe for effortless clean up, and is made with heat-resistant materials so you can cook with confidence. These kitchen essentials are all accented with a garden-inspired butterfly motif alongside Dolly’s signature, adding a touch of whimsy anytime you stir, scoop, or serve. Shop them now while they’re still in stock!

Dolly Parton Stainless Steel Spoon Spatula, $12 at Walmart

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Offering all the capabilities of two utensils in one, this spoon spatula is aptly designed to tackle a variety of kitchen tasks. Its conveniently shaped flexible silicone head has a shallow spoon-like design with beveled edges so you can scoop, scrape, stir, and saute without switching tools. With this handy tool, you can serve side dishes like mashed potatoes or fold chocolate chips into cookie dough with the same level of confidence Dolly brings to the stage.

Dolly Parton Stainless Steel Spatula, $9 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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If you happen to work in a restaurant, you might hear a spatula called a “million-dollar tool” because of how much money it can save on ingredient costs over time. Scraping down the sides of a bowl to get every last bit of batter or getting into the curved corners of a container of leftovers with a spatula can also help reduce food waste. At just $8, this adorable spatula by the queen of country delivers serious value.

Dolly Parton Stainless Steel Short Turner, $9 at Walmart

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At just over 13 inches long, a reviewer refuted the use of the term “short” to describe this turner. However, the nylon turner head is still incredibly useful, offering a surface area approximately 2 inches wide and 4 inches long. It’s a handy tool for flipping burgers or grilled cheese, serving slabs of lasagna, or delicately handling fish and fried eggs. 

Dolly Parton Stainless Steel Whisk, $10 at Walmart

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Whether you’re whipping up desserts or simmering sauces, no kitchen is complete without a whisk, so why not have the prettiest one you can find? Now discounted to just $9, this 12-inch-long stainless steel whisk is a durable tool that’ll bring a bit of Dolly’s razzle dazzle straight to your countertop. 

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Stoneware Utensil Crock, $19 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton Holiday Toile Ceramic Platter, $27 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton Tritan Water Bottle Blue Butterfly, $10 at Walmart

Related: Martha Stewart’s $69 Damask Rug Brings Old-World Elegance to Homes for Less

Bring a playful pop of pink to your kitchen for less while these Dolly Parton kitchen essentials are on sale at Walmart. Hurry and snag them for $12 or under while they’re still in stock!

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Fall is well underway, and one of the best ways to embrace the changing seasons is by giving your home a decorative upgrade. Swapping out your bedspread can instantly refresh the look of your bedroom with minimal effort. And nowadays, there’s a comforter or quilt design for every type of interior, whether your style tends to lean more minimalist, rustic, or bold.

If you love the farmhouse look in particular, the Whale Flotilla Patchwork Quilt Bedding Set on Amazon perfectly embodies that homey, rustic vibe. Now on sale for as low as $27 in the full/queen size, this quilt set also stands out as an exceptional value. Discounts and base prices vary slightly by hue, but many of the queen colorways are currently marked down to under $35, so you’ll score a great deal no matter what. The fan-favorite set has racked up over 2,100 five-star ratings from customers, who described it as “so pretty” and “good quality.”

Whale Flotilla Patchwork Quilt Set, From $27 (was $33) at Amazon

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Crafted from high-quality microfiber, this quilt delivers supreme softness and comfort for a cozy night’s sleep. The modern stitching technology prevents pilling, fading, and shrinking, making this quilt not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday use.

One major highlight of the set is the breathable, airy design, which makes it great for people who prefer bedding that’s a little more lightweight. You can use it on its own on milder nights, and then layer it with other blankets and comforters for extra warmth when winter arrives.

Another standout feature is the reversible design that offers two looks in one so you can easily switch up your decor. Shoppers can take their pick from 14 patterns. One side of each quilt has a solid color, while the revere sides feature charming, vibrant designs like farmhouse-inspired patchwork, floral, and paisley prints. A couple of the varieties even feature holiday-inspired designs for anyone who wants to bring some Christmas cheer to their sleeping space.

Whale Flotilla Patchwork Quilt Set, From $27 (was $33) at Amazon

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This quilt set includes two matching pillowcases for a cohesive look. It’s a versatile choice that would not only work on your bed, but also as a soft throw blanket in any room. In addition to the full/queen size, it also comes in twin, king, and California king sizes at varying discounts. The king and California king sets also come with two pillowcases each, while the twin set comes with one.

Caring for the quilt set is a breeze, too. Simply machine wash it on a gentle cycle in cold water. Shoppers said they tumble-dried it on low heat with no shrinkage or fading, so your quilt will look fresh and vibrant for years to come.

“The print is colorful and lively, and it has a vintage feel that I really like,” one shopper wrote, adding that the quilt is “stylishly lighthearted and fun.”

Related: Walmart’s $19 ‘Incredibly Soft’ Quilt Set Is a Lightweight Bedding Find for Chilly Fall Nights

Whether you’re looking to refresh your bedroom decor or seeking a lightweight cover for cozy nights, the $27 vintage-style quilt set is a stylish choice. It can create a peaceful retreat right in your home and add a charming dash of farmhouse style. Grab this delightful bedding set before the deal ends!

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Fred Parris and his band, the Five Satins, would gain notable fame in the mid 1950’s when they released one of doo-wop’s classic hits that would gain pop culture status for its inclusion in popular films.

“In the Still of the Nite” (also known as “In the Still of the Night”) was a moderate hit when it was released in February of 1956. It’s also one of the few songs to have ever charted on the Hot 100 on three separate occasions subg by the same artist. When the track was initially released in 1956, it landed at No. 24, and then No. 81 in 1960, and finally at No. 99 in 1961. It’s largely due to the backstory of the song’s creation and release.

Parris was inspired to write the song while he was reportedly on guard duty in the U.S. Army. According to SongFacts, he had written it about a former girlfriend and hoped she would return to him. The woman in question never actually did and moved from Connecticut to California.

While the group’s name suggests five members, “In the Still of the Nite” was only recorded by four: Al Denby (low tenor), Eddie Martin (baritone), Jim Freeman (bass), and Parris. It became famously known that the song was recorded in the basement of St. Bernadette Church in their hometown of New Haven.

The group was having trouble recording the track at another building due to the excessive street noise. It wasn’t until their manager, Marty Kugell, came up with a solution thanks to his friend, who happened to be an altar boy. He managed to convince the pastor to let the Five Satins use the basement after Sunday service, and even joined them playing the saxophone.

Interestingly enough, Parris wasn’t around when the track was released and started to gain some popularity among disk jockeys. He was stationed in Japan when some of his comrades heard the song on the radio, which resulted in him gaining some celebrity status.

“I had told a couple of the guys I was stationed with about ‘In the Still of the Night’ — that I was a recording artist and so forth,” Parris remembered, according to American Songwriter.

“But no one really believed me. And one Saturday morning on the radio, the disc jockey said, ‘We’ve had so many requests for this song. It’s called ‘In the Still of the Night.’ It’s by the Five Satins. But we don’t have a copy of that, so we’re going to play one by Ella Fitzgerald.’ Which, of course, was different from our song, ‘In the Still of the Night.’”

The song’s popularity led to a tour by the record label, but with Parris in Japan, they brought in Bill Baker as the singer. Only two members of the Five Satins were part of the original lineup until Parris returned from overseas.

“In the Still of the Nite” would gain notoriety decades later when Boyz II Men released their cover in 1992. It was used in the TV miniseries The Jacksons: An American Dream and landed at No.3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Rolling Stones would rank it on their list of the “Greatest Songs of All Time,” and it became a pop culture staple that’s appeared in Dirty Dancing, The Irishmen, The Offer, and multiple series.

Related: 1974 Pilot Song, Revived For a Drug Commercial, Named One of Soft Rock’s Best One-Hit Wonders

RJ Mitte‘s younger sister Lacianne Carriere is remembering her late brother after his death at 34 on Oct. 12. The former child actor shared an emotional tribute to the Breaking Bad star in an Oct. 23 Instagram post that included photos, videos, and a lengthy heartbreaking caption that expressed disbelief.

“There are just no words,” Carriere began the caption. “You were just here.. your strawberry Fanta was still sitting on my coffee table when I got the call. Life hasn’t felt real since then.”

“Rj you were my everything,” she continued. “I just lost my other half. I lost my brother but I also lost my father… Every single aspect of my personality is because of your influence. My music taste, my film taste the video games I love… because of you I am a collector, you taught me that even the smallest piece of paper can be a precious memory later on.”

The 22-year-old went on to mention that “since the phone call” she’s “been sitting around” with Mitte’s “closest people almost every night sharing the craziest stories that could never be said anywhere else.” She continued to call her brother the “life of the party” and the “coolest guy that we all tried to keep up with but never could.”

“We had so much more to do, so many more memories to be shared and I don’t know if my heart can ever be whole again after losing the biggest piece of it,” she added.

Carriere ended her caption with words she imagined Mitte would say to her after the devastating loss and a powerful message of love.

“I know you’re telling me right now that I’ll be okay though I don’t know how I will,” she wrote. “But I promise I’m going to do my hardest and I promise your love will always live through me until the day I see you again. I loved you completely. And you loved me the same. That’s all. The rest is confetti. 💜.”

Mitte, who was best known for playing Walter “Flynn” White Jr. on Breaking Bad, died by suicide in Brownsville. Tex. Just a week before his death, he shared a haunting message about life on the Oct. 5 episode of The Joe Vulpis Podcast . “I live life to the fullest,” he said. “I always try. I have a very finite amount of time.”

Today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle covers a range of topics, including words associated with a popular Texas city, ACC schools, organizations the New York Jets quarterback has been part of, and what you might call the middle of the baseball diamond.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Saturday, October 24, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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Today’s NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Saturday, October 24, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories on October 24, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: You’ll need a strong arm.
• Green: Atlantic Coast Conference institutions.
• Blue: New York quarterback orgs.
• Purple: America’s team, say.

Here Are Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: WHERE A PITCHER THROWS FROM
• Green: ACC SCHOOL LOCATIONS
• Blue: GENO SMITH TEAMS
• Purple: DALLAS _____

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #761 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• WHERE A PITCHER THROWS FROM: BUMP, HILL, MOUND, RUBBER
• ACC SCHOOL LOCATIONS: CHAPEL HILL, CHESTNUT HILL, DALLAS, PALO ALTO
• GENO SMITH TEAMS: JETS, RAIDERS, SEAHAWKS, WEST VIRGINIA
• DALLAS _____: CLARK, COWBOYS, GOEDERT, STARS

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Friday, October 23, 2026

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As someone with a small kitchen, I do my best to keep everything organized. But I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t bakeware sitting on my stovetop, dish towels crowding the oven handle, or a drawer full of utensils that get more jumbled every time I open it. When counter space is limited, finding a dedicated spot for every tool can feel like an impossible task. And frankly, some essentials aren’t exactly cute enough to leave out on display.

This gem of a design by Ree Drummond, however, might be the exception. Instead of leaving loose bulbs on the counter or tossing them into a drawer with everything else, The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Garlic Keeper is available for $18 at Walmart and gives them their very own abode. And in true Ree fashion, it’s a whole lot cuter than you’d expect from something designed to store an ingredient. 

The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Garlic Keeper, $18 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

At first glance, you’d probably mistake this garlic keeper for a vintage canister from an antique shop. The creamy white stoneware has a softly rounded shape, with vertical ridges running along the sides and the word “Garlic” embossed at the top. A natural wood lid adds homemade vibes to the design, complete with a rounded knob that makes it easy to lift off when you’re cooking. Measuring 8.3 inches tall, it’s substantial enough to not get lost alongside your other countertop essentials without looking bulky. The neutral color also makes it easy to mix with different kitchen styles, whether you’ve got colorful Pioneer Woman dishes, classic white dinnerware, or a collection of mismatched vintage finds.

Of course, there’s a reason to store garlic in something other than a regular kitchen canister. Whole garlic bulbs keep best in a dry, well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight, and this keeper is designed with those needs in mind. 

The stoneware walls block light, while small ventilation holes near the bottom and inside the sides allow air to circulate rather than trapping moisture around the bulbs. That combination can help reduce the conditions that encourage premature sprouting and spoilage, although it’s still important to keep the container somewhere cool and dry, away from heat. 

Shop More Deals

• The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Potato Keeper, $39 at Walmart
• The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Onion Keeper, $29 at Walmart
• The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Butter Dish, $16 at Walmart

Home cooks praised this “pretty” and “functional” jar, calling it a “cute piece that adds a touch of farmhouse charm to the countertop.” One shopper wrote, “The stoneware feels sturdy, and the neutral white color blends well with different kitchen styles.” 

Related: The Pioneer Woman’s $25 Ruffle Throw Blanket Looks Straight Out of a Quaint Country Cottage

One organized corner at a time, right? Start with the seasoning and pick up The Pioneer Woman Colette Stoneware Garlic Keeper for $18 at Walmart!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Dame Helen Mirren didn’t slow down after scooping up an Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the docudrama The Queen, and its beloved star, 81, is now portraying another public figure: novelist Patricia Highsmith.

While out promoting A Talent for Murder, now playing in theaters, Mirren recently opened up about her career and what she wishes she could change — specifically, her age of all things.

“I’m so pissed off that I wasn’t born 30 years later, not because I want to be 30 years younger, but I would love to be 40 now because of the availability of [the] kind of work that’s available now that just wasn’t there,” Mirren told AARP Movies for Grownups in an interview article published this week.

The MobLand star continued, “I always used to say 30 years ago… look at the roles for women in real life and work on changing those because as night follows day, the roles will change for women in drama. And this is absolutely true… Women have stepped more and more into the public space, into the professional space. And when that happens, their roles in drama become more and more proactive, central to the story.”

Fans who have seen the A Talent for Murder trailer may not have even recognized Mirren at first, given that she trades her polished appearance for a severe wig, rumpled clothes and little makeup.

“It’s liberating in the sense you obviously have to let go of any sense of vanity or looking good on screen,” she told AARP in the Thursday, October 22 article.

Helen Mirren Stuns in Dramatic Waist-Cinching Gothic Outfit in New York

Earlier this week, the award-winning performer proved she still dresses for the red carpet like it’s opening night — and her latest look leaned fully into the drama.

Mirren arrived at AMC Lincoln Square on Wednesday, Oct. 21, for the premiere of A Talent for Murder in an all-black ensemble with a distinctly gothic mood. Check out the look below, and find out more here.

Roy Rochlin / Getty Images

Today’s NYT Strands puzzle might remind you to empty your clothes hamper.

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times‘ recent game, “Strands,” is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and “spangrams” to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We’ll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today’s Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #965 on Saturday, October 24.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here’s exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle’s theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word’s letter order.

What Is Today’s Strands Hint for the Theme: “Re-fresh-ing”

If that doesn’t help, here’s a hint for today’s Strands game: Wash and fold.

What Are Today’s NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today’s puzzle, there are eight theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• DE
• SI
• IR
• DR
• WA
• BA
• RA
• LA (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today’s Spangram is mostly horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for October 24

Today’s Spangram answer for today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram, and Answers for Saturday, October 24, 2026, is LAUNDRYDAYS.

What Are Today’s NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Saturday, October 24?

• DETERGENT
• SINK
• IRON
• DRYER
• WASHER
• BASKET
• RACK
• SPANGRAM: LAUNDRYDAY

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Friday, October 23, 2026