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Father's Day is almost here, and if you're still searching for a gift that's a little more memorable than another tie or coffee mug, a thoughtfully chosen beverage might be the answer. Whether Dad enjoys exploring new trends, sipping premium spirits, relaxing with a ready-to-drink cocktail or discovering a great bottle of wine, these Father's Day picks offer something for every taste.

Woodstock THC Drinks Woodstock bucket hat and backpack cooler.

Woodstock Goods

For dads who like to stay ahead of the curve, Woodstock's line of hemp-derived THC beverages offers a modern alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks. The official cannabis brand of the iconic Woodstock festival combines cannabinoids with functional ingredients designed to create specific experiences, from relaxation to laughter, without the hangover.

Related: I Tried a Live Lobster Delivery and It Turned Into an Unforgettable Family Experience

The beverages come in a range of strengths, from approachable 2.5mg options for newcomers to 10mg offerings for more experienced consumers. Four-packs start at $36, and orders of $75 or more qualify for free shipping.

Woodstock is also running a Father's Day promotion while supplies last. Customers who spend $75 receive a free Woodstock bucket hat, while purchases of $150 or more include both a free bucket hat and a backpack cooler. Orders placed by June 15 are expected to arrive in time for Father's Day in most eligible states.

Código 1530 Añejo Tequila Código 1530 Añejo Manhattan

Código

If Dad prefers a premium sipping spirit, Código 1530 Añejo makes a strong Father's Day gift. The tequila is aged for 18 months in French White Oak wine barrels, developing notes of vanilla, caramel and warm spice while maintaining its agave character.

Made from 100% lowland agave and free from additives, Código 1530 Añejo appeals not only to tequila enthusiasts but also to bourbon and Scotch drinkers looking to explore something new. The brand recommends using it in an Añejo Manhattan, a tequila-based take on the classic cocktail featuring sweet vermouth and bitters.

The bottle carries a suggested retail price of approximately $109.99.

Related: Chomps Turns Rotisserie Chicken Into Limited-Edition Fashion Accessory

Sinless Vodka Cocktails Sinless Vodka Cocktails

Sinless

For dads looking for a lighter option this summer, Sinless Vodka Cocktails deliver a ready-to-drink experience with fewer compromises. Each lightly sparkling canned cocktail contains 5% alcohol by volume, 100 calories, zero sugar and zero carbs.

Made with premium vodka, the lineup includes Cranberry, Pineapple, Black Cherry and Peach flavors. The drinks are designed to be less carbonated than many hard seltzers, making them an easy addition to summer barbecues, beach days and backyard gatherings.

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Rosés for Summer Sipping This Life Rose

Maison Wessman Winery

Rosé season is in full swing, and several standout bottles make excellent Father's Day gifts.

Music fans may appreciate This Life Rosé, a collaboration between 10-time Grammy winner Norah Jones and French winery Maison Wessman. Inspired by the rosés Jones discovered during her early European tours, the wine blends Syrah and Grenache grapes for a bright, crisp profile that pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled fish and charcuterie. It carries a suggested retail price of $17.

For dads who enjoy exploring unique wines, Quinta Nova Rosé from Portugal's Douro Valley offers a more structured take on the category. Made from a blend of Tinta Roriz, Tinta Francisca and Touriga Franca grapes, it balances ripe red fruit flavors with minerality and a refreshing finish. Suggested retail price is $27.

Meanwhile, French Bloom Le Rosé provides a sophisticated nonalcoholic option. Crafted from organic Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown in France, the sparkling beverage features floral notes alongside hints of white peach and red fruit. At $44, it's an elegant choice for dads who are cutting back on alcohol while still enjoying a celebratory drink.

No matter what kind of dad you're shopping for, these beverage-focused gifts offer a welcome upgrade from the usual Father's Day fare and are perfect for enjoying all summer long.

Hatebreed, the iconic metalcore band, is entering a bold new era.

Formed in 1994, the band has long been regarded as one of the most influential acts in modern metalcore, showcasing thrash metal guitar riffs accompanied by unmatched energy and motivating lyrics.

Over three decades since its formation, the five-piece band, composed of frontman Jamey Jasta, lead guitarist Wayne Lozinak, rhythm guitarist Frank Novinec, bassist Carl Schwartz and drummer Matt Byrne, has just secured a major new chapter.

Hatebreed has officially signed with BLKIIBLK Records, a heavy metal and hard rock label under the Italy-based Frontiers Label Group, co-founded by industry veteran Mike Gitter.

In an Instagram post, the label introduced Hatebreed as its newest artist, joining Texas death metal band Creeping Death, Aussie deathcore titans To The Grave and the legendary heavy metal band Megadeth.

In addition to this, one of Hatebreed's first projects with the new label is their upcoming album.

Set to release this fall, the record will be the band's ninth studio album following Weight of the False Self.

Jamey Jasta of Hatebreed performs at Coney Island Amphitheater on August 26, 2022 in New York City.

Roy Rochlin/Getty Images

“BlLKIIBLK Records is proud to announce the signing of HATEBREED,” Gitter shared. “Not only are they a name carved into the heavy music landscape, but they are as vital and relevant a force as ever. Perhaps even more so. We are excited to work with Jamey [Jasta], who continues to bring new energy to everything he touches. Jasta and HATEBREED aren’t merely about perseverance — they’re about bringing the sound of the extreme to a new level. We’re honored to be working together.”

Meanwhile, the lead vocalist also expressed the same sentiment, noting how grateful they are for working with “brother-in-arms, Zeuss, once again,” which he considered one of his “favorite things” about making the album.

“His connection with Matt, Wayne, Frank, Carl, and me goes far beyond the producer’s chair. I’ve known him since the Pushbutton Warfare and Jasta 14 days; he’s been like a sixth member of this band for years. When you’re chasing something timeless, memorable, and meaningful, having that level of trust and understanding makes all the difference,” Jamey Jasta explained. “We would high-five, scream, pace, and celebrate every time we elevated the song or hit on something killer. From ‘I Will Be Heard’ to ‘Destroy Everything,’ ‘Looking Down The Barrel’ to now, ‘Decisions Become Destinies!’ We got another one, Zeussky!”

Hatebreed's transition from Nuclear Blast to BLKIIBLK Records marks a major move that comes 28 years after the band's first international debut through the 1998 Warped Tour.

Related: '70s Rock Band, Formed as Iconic Supergroup, Released One of the ‘Greatest Albums’ of All Time

It’s all about love and romance when it comes to the beach reads, and summer 2026 will not disappoint. Whether you love fake-dating, enemies-to-lovers, or second-chance romance, there is something for everyone.

Not sure where to start? That can, admittedly, be a little tricky. There are just so many releases, so how do you know where to start? Here are seven books that are set to be your next beach read obsession — and with hope, some of them will be turned into movies!

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘The Summer Girlfriend’ by Kristina Forest

The Summer Girlfriend by Kristina Forest is already out, but if you missed it, that’s not to worry. You have the summer to enjoy! It’s filled with fake-dating romance, and there’s even a splash of comedy in there. The best thing is that this Jersey Shore novel is written by a Jerseyan herself, so she gets it all!

The Summer Girlfriend celebrates Black love, bringing us a story of a woman who loses her main job. Now, she has to make hiring herself out as a stand-in bridesmaid pay the bills and her upcoming college tuition. That doesn’t seem possibly until she’s offered the opportunity to be a rich man’s girlfriend all summer so that he can avoid his family. What happens when they start to fall in love?

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Romantic Hero’ by Kirsty Greenwood

How about a romance writer who is struggling to write her books? Romantic Hero by Kirsty Greenwood follows Gertie, who has made a living writing romance. The problem now is that her ex is thriving, and she is completely fixated on that. She has writer’s block, and she doesn’t know how to deal with it.

So, when she ends up waking up to find a confused and rugged cowboy in her house, she’s stunned. To make matters worse, this is the villain from the unfinished novel she’s working with. He’s very real, and maybe he can help Gertie and then get back to his own fictional land. Of course, as he helps Gertie win her ex back, sparks fly between the two of them. Is this the plot twist she didn’t see coming? You can already read the novel now!

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘An Infinite Love Story’ by Chanel Cleeton

For those who love historical romance, An Infinite Love Story by Chanel Cleeton is going to be for you. Set in 1968, it brings an essence of the Space Race, with the world watching as Joe Mitchell launches into space. It’s supposed to be another successful mission around the moon, but then things change.

Joe’s wife, Vivian, gets a knock at the door to say her husband’s spacecraft has vanished. With everyone on board feared to be dead, Vivian needs to accept her new world, but she can’t. We get the story of love told through Vivian’s memories as she tries to figure out what happened to her husband a million miles away. Read the beautiful tale on July 7, 2026.

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Married With Benefits’ by Ellie Palmer

Something you will find is that there’s a lot of focus on gig workers right now in novels, and that’s the case with Married with Benefits by Ellie Palmer. We follow Lainey Davis, who dreams of escaping her tiny Wisconsin town, and she may be able to as she learns that she’s been inadvertently squatting and now she owns a marvel of modern architecture thanks to an archaic law.

Well, it would be great if she owned more than just the building. There’s also the lakeside money pit surrounding it, which she doesn’t own, and it’s been used for illegal reptile dealings. That land has been willed to Elliot Hodges, who has a proposal for Lainey. Literally, a proposal. How about she marries him for his health insurance, and then he can buy her out. Will Lainey get the life she always dreamed of? Find out on July 21, 2026.

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Mutual Discord’ by Liana De la Rosa

I will admit that I’ve been sitting on this for months, working through the other great novels coming out throughout the winter and spring! Now, I get to rave all about it. Mutual Discord is the first contemporary novel from Liana De la Rosa out on August 18, 2026. You’ll know her best for her historical romance following the Luna sisters!

Now, she brings us an influencer who is behind a popular video series that focuses on all the great women in history. Of course, these women were all erased from their own inventions, and she’s made it her mission to highlight the problems. That is until she comes to a stark realization of her own: she’s in love with her best friend’s boyfriend!

Courtesy of Melissa de la Cruz Studio, ,a Disney Publishing Group imprint ‘The Introvert’s Guide to Kissing in Europe’ by Brenda Janowitz

We move onto a YA romance, because teens need a beach read as well! The Introvert’s Guide to Kissing in Europeby Brenda Janowitz is a story of a young high school graduate who gets to explore life and experience Europe for the very first time. She’s taking on the stories she’s heard from her grandmother, as she deals with grief and loss.

Emily decides to do things that she’s enver done before: travel to different countries and push herself to the limits. It’s messy, but it’s also fun, as she discovers how different each country is while dancing the night away and facing heartbreak. This is a story of growth and wonder, making it perfect for a summer read, and it’s out on August 18, 2026.

Courtesy of Simon & Schuster ‘A Taste of Magic’ by Tricia O’Malley

While there is a Christmasy feel to A Taste of Magic when you look at the cover, this is also great for Practical Magic fans. And this is the perfect time to read with the movie coming out soon and the deluxe copy of the novel being released. It brings a bit of witchcraft and the world of reality TV together, while offering the second chance romance you’re craving.

A Taste of Magic by Tricia O’Malley follows Lyra MacGregor, who’s magic is just as unpredictable as her love life. When she casts a spell during the filming of a favorite reality show in Briarhaven, she ends up having to face her former high school flame. Now, she needs to deal with her spoons turning into hedgehogs when he comes her way, while the cameras are rolling! Check it out on August 25, 2026.

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Birdwatching has quickly become one of the most popular ways for people to reconnect with nature, especially as more look for slower, screen-free hobbies. It doesn’t take much to get started, either, which makes it even more appealing. A hummingbird feeder on a balcony or a simple hanging feeder outside a window can all bring steady movement and color into even the smallest outdoor area, turning everyday views into something a little more alive.

But once you start noticing the local wildlife, you’ll crave a little more activity and variety in the mix. And to attract extra attention, you’ll need the Best Choice Products 4-Hook Bird Feeding Station. Normally $60, it is now marked down 58% to just $25, making it a budget-friendly way to move beyond a single feeder and create a more enticing setup in your yard.

Best Choice Products 4-Hook Bird Feeding Station, From $25 (was $60) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Standing at 91 inches tall, this feeder creates the equivalent of a bird buffet, upgrading you from a single stop-and-go station. You get two top hooks plus two adjustable, movable hooks so you can switch things up depending on what you're trying to attract or how busy things get. 

The included tube feeder is perfect for classic seed blends that draw in finches, chickadees, and sparrows, while the suet feeder is more of a high-energy snack bar that woodpeckers and nuthatches love. Then, there's a food tray that works great for seed mixes, chopped fruit like apples or oranges, or even mealworms if you're trying to get a little more variety going. The water bowl rounds things out, giving smaller birds a place to stop for a drink and linger a bit longer.

What makes it feel more like a backyard “hub” than other feeders is how flexible everything is. The hooks are not just for feeders, either, so if you have wind chimes, a small birdhouse, or even lightweight garden accents, you can hang those up too. 

The whole thing is made from durable steel with a rust-resistant finish, built to stick around through changing seasons. Threaded pole pieces lock together with wingnuts so setup isn't a full weekend project. Once the four-prong base is pushed into the ground, it holds steady enough to handle wind and constant visitor traffic, turning your yard into one of those spots where there is always something happening if you just take a second to look.

Shoppers call this “sturdy” and “easy to assemble” feeder “a must for all bird enthusiasts,” saying that it's a “lovely backyard addition.” One shopper wrote, “The variety of the bird feeders, snack tray, and bird bath provides lots of options for the birds,” adding that “it’s built well and has withstood several strong storms.”

Shop More Deals

• Best Choice Products 6-Hook Bird Feeding Station, $35 (was $80) at Walmart
• Umailgoo Bird Feeder Pole, $32 (was $60) at Walmart
• Teblint Bird Feeding Station, $40 (was $50) at Walmart

Related: Chewy’s 'Beautiful' and 'Easy to Clean' $10 Hummingbird Feeder Brings Your Backyard to Life

Ready for your birdwatching hobby to take flight? Shop the $25 Best Choice Products 4-Hook Bird Feeding Station while it’s 58% off at Walmart!

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Think about your internal monologue. Who narrates it—you or a parent? If you answered your parents, know that you're not alone.

Dr. Emily Guarnotta, Psy.D., PMH-C—a psychologist and the founder of Phoenix Health—says it's common for parents to become their lifelong children's inner voice. If you're a parent yourself, Dr. Guarnotta shares that it's important to understand the power your words still hold with an adult child.

"When a parent says the 'right' words, it has the power to heal, and a child instantly feels safe," she tells Parade. "When a parent says something hurtful or invalidating, it hurts even more so coming from them, versus a stranger, because our parents are supposed to know us best in the world."

Yet, moms and dads of adult kids can start to feel like nothing they say or do matters when the child no longer "needs" them for rides, dinner or shelter.

"When children become adults, the relationship ideally shifts from one based on authority and dependence to one based on mutual respect and emotional reciprocity," notes Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist. "However, many parents struggle with this transition because their identity is so rooted in caregiving and being in charge."

Still, Dr. Schiff says adult children still want an emotional connection along with autonomy, and other psychologists agree.

To help you establish a mature emotional connection with your grown-and-flown kids, we asked four psychologists: "What's the best phrase to use with adult children to transform your relationship?" They all said the same thing.

Related: 9 Things Parents Need From Their Adult Children—but Won’t Ask For, Psychologist Shares

The Best Phrase To Use With Adult Children, According to 4 Psychologists

Four psychologists agree that there's power in saying, "I'm sorry for my mistakes."

"Authentically acknowledging and apologizing for your mistakes can feel incredibly validating for the receiver," shares Dr. Anna Plotkina, Psy.D.,a licensed psychologist with Pathways Psychological Services. "Validation is one of the most powerful tools we have for connection and healing."

While Dr. Schiff agrees, she also concedes that it may not roll right off the tongue.

"This can be difficult for parents to say because it can trigger feelings of shame or concern that they are giving up authority," she explains. "They may also fear being wrong."

Dr. Michele Goldman, Ph.D., a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor, encourages you to say, "I'm sorry for my mistakes" to an adult child when:

• You clearly caused harm, even if it was unintentional.
• When the longevity of the relationship matters, and repair is possible.
• When you genuinely understand what went wrong and their role in it.
• When you are ready to change your behavior.

Related: People Who Never Felt Validated as Kids Often Develop These 11 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say

Dr. Guarnotta agrees there's power in this phrase—if used correctly.

"Let the apology stand on its own," she encourages parents of adult kids. "I would not recommend saying it if it’s used to shut down a conversation. It also shouldn’t be used if the entire goal is to guilt the child into a reaction or forcing a reconciliation."

She warns that apologies used as a manipulation tool feel insincere and can expand emotional distance. Additionally, the psychologists we spoke with agree that you shouldn't apologize if you didn't do anything wrong or don't mean it.

Related: The Biggest Obstacle To Repairing a Parent and Adult-Child Relationship, Psychologist Says

FG Trade Latin/Getty Images

Why This Phrase Can Be Especially Transformative

"I'm sorry for my mistakes" is an especially relationship-changing phrase between parents and adult children because it's unfortunately not the norm. And also, because it's a simple way to show mutual respect.

"When a parent never apologizes, it keeps the adult child questioning themselves, their reality and the relationship," Dr. Goldman states. "When a parent apologizes for their mistakes, several benefits occur."

Dr. Goldman says this phrase showcases emotional maturity and heals old wounds, self-doubt and unhealthy power dynamics. It can essentially take a 3-ton brick off of your adult child's heart.

"It takes away the shame from the adult child," Dr. Guarnotta notes. "Many children carry the burden of their parents’ mistakes as if they are at fault. Hearing a parent take ownership of those mistakes takes the weight off the child. This is the foundation of a healthy adult parent/child relationship." 

Plus, Dr. Plotkina points out that apologizing gives your adult child the gift of validation.

"Allowing your child the opportunity to feel heard, seen and validated will facilitate any needed relationship repair and can deepen your connection with them," she shares.

And Dr. Schiff says this phrase shifts the interaction between you and your adult child from blame to repair, even if it's an exercise in humility.

"Many adult children aren't expecting perfection from their parents," she says. "They are seeking acknowledgment. When a parent admits they are sorry for their mistakes, it… creates space for a new relationship that isn't defined by past dynamics. If the child has long felt unseen or dismissed, this also interrupts that long-standing pattern."

Related: 7 Common Gaslighting Phrases Boomers Use With Their Adult Children, Psychologists Say

5 Other Ways To Better Your Relationship With Your Adult Children1. Work on yourself independently

Relationships are team sports, but even soccer and football stars do individual work when their teammates aren't watching.

"Sometimes repair and improvement need to be relational, but other times the parent might need to work on themselves independent of their relationship with their adult child," Dr. Goldman states.

For instance, she shares that parents may need to develop tools to better manage their emotions and communication.

"This demonstrates that the parent is doing hard work on themselves to be better people in general and to heal themselves," she says.

2. Seek to understand your adult child's experience

Dr. Schiff says that asking an adult child to help you understand their experience can be beneficial, too.

"This invites curiosity instead of defensiveness, which will immediately lower emotional intensity," she states. "The parent is willing to step outside of their own perspective and genuinely listen to the adult child's emotional reality."

If your adult child opens up, she recommends pausing before responding. Then, try to ask follow-up questions rather than correcting or explaining.

"Over time, this will build trust and create emotional room for the adult child," she says.

3. Don't jump into fix-it mode

While we're on the subject of curiosity: Dr. Guarnotta understands how tough it can be to see an adult child struggle. But it's not your job to immediately fix their problems, as you once did with a broken toy using Gorilla Glue.

"Instead of telling your adult child how to solve a problem, ask open-ended questions to learn more about how they think they should approach the problem," the psychologist says.

For example, she suggests saying, “That sounds challenging. How were you thinking of handling that?”

"This signals that you view them as a capable adult, and it positions you as a support rather than a problem-solver," she states.

4. Respect "no"

Remember, your adult child is no longer a toddler refusing to put on shoes when you legitimately need to go somewhere.

"When an adult child sets a boundary and says 'no' to something, don’t take it personally," Dr. Guarnotta stresses. "It means that your child is clear about their needs and advocating for themselves. By honoring their boundaries without guilting them, they will feel respected and want to share more with you."

Related: 11 Boundaries Every Woman Should Set by 40, According to Therapists

5. Celebrate who they are, not just what they do.

Dr. Guarnotta recommends making an effort to connect with the person your adult child has become by celebrating their character rather than just toasting to their achievements.

"Highlight their honorable traits, humor and unique perspective on the world," she says. "Tell them why you appreciate this about them. So often parents think these things in their head or share them with others, but forget to say them out loud to their own children." 

Related: 7 Signs You Need To Set Boundaries With Your Adult Child, According to a Psychologist

What To Avoid Doing 1. Trying to maintain control over the life of your adult child

Dr. Goldman reminds parents that their grown children are independent adults.

"If you continue to treat them as a dependent, that relationship will not foster growth and healthy autonomy," she warns. "Instead, it keeps the parent in a role of having control and power and prevents the adult child from healthy development."

2. Overstepping personal boundaries

Honoring boundaries is critical to parent-adult-child relationships, but Dr. Goldman says it's often a challenge.

"Parents can struggle to honor the boundaries of their adult child, commenting on what they feel the child is doing wrong, coming over unannounced and questioning their decisions," she reports. "Instead, parents can work on accepting the values of their adult child and trust that they raised their adult child well."

3. Making guilt-laden comments

Often, Dr. Guarnotta hears parents make guilt-laden comments, especially about the sacrifices they made. It creates emotional pressure on an adult child—not cool.

"Some people, including parents, use guilt to increase the likelihood they will get what they want," Dr. Guarnotta notes. "However, guilt is a manipulative tactic and can keep the parent/child in an unhealthy dynamic."

Related: Psychologists Warn: These 14 Phrases Boomers Use Can Trigger Guilt in Their Adult Kids

Final Takeaways

Relationships between parents and children change as the younger ones reach adulthood. Gone are the days of dependence. But the desire for emotional connection remains, as does the power in parents' words. In fact, psychologists say that a parent's voice often dominates an adult child's inner monologue. So, the "right" phrases can be transformative.

• Psychologists agree that "I'm sorry for my mistakes" is especially transformative. It can foster repair and validation and take away shame.
• Use the phrase correctly. Psychologists recommend saying this phrase if you mean it and have done something wrong (even unintentionally). Avoid using it to shut down a conversation or induce guilt. Let the phrase stand on its own rather than following it with an explanation of why you did what you did.
• There are other ways to transform a relationship with an adult child. Asking questions before giving advice or getting defensive, respecting boundaries and praising their character can deepen emotional connections.
• Avoid certain pitfalls. Encroaching boundaries, guilting them with comments about all of the sacrifices you made and trying to maintain control over their lives are turn-offs for adult children.

Up Next:

Related: The #1 Mistake Parents and Grandparents Should Avoid Making With Their Kids, According to a Psychologist

Sources:

• Dr. Emily Guarnotta, Psy.D., PMH-C, is a psychologist and the founder of Phoenix Health.
• Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist.
• Dr. Michele Goldman, Ph.D., is a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor.
• Dr. Anna Plotkina, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist with Pathways Psychological Services.

If you’ve been looking for a summer vacation that feels like a high-wheelin' adventure, it’s time to point your boots toward Texas. This summer, the Lone Star State is serving as a massive international playground. North Texas is actively playing host to thousands of soccer fans traveling in for the FIFA World Cup matches at Dallas Stadium, running from June 11 straight through July 19.

But if you want to pair that high-octane global sports energy with a dose of legendary Texas hospitality and deep-rooted cowboy culture, skip the standard Dallas hotel loops and head straight to Fort Worth. Thanks to a major multi-million-dollar revitalization, the historic Fort Worth Stockyards has transformed into the ultimate neighborhood for travelers who want a vacation that balances old-school heritage with sleek, modern luxury.

"The Fort Worth Stockyards are having a major cultural moment because travelers today are craving authentic experiences, and there’s simply nowhere else in the world that delivers the Western lifestyle at this scale and level of authenticity," explains Dena Newell, Director of Marketing & Tourism at Stockyards Heritage Development Co. "From the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive to year-round rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum, live music at Billy Bob’s Texas, luxury shopping in Mule Alley, and elevated hospitality at Hotel Drover, the Stockyards blend heritage and modern luxury in a way that feels uniquely American."

The boom in the district isn't an accident—it’s the result of a thoughtful, intentional investment that managed to upscale the area without stripping away its legendary soul. "The growth has been fueled by strategic expansion and reinvestment into the district," Newell says. "Over the last decade, more than $240 million has been invested into revitalizing the Fort Worth Stockyards, including the development of Mule Alley and Hotel Drover, which elevated the visitor experience while preserving the district’s historic authenticity. The results have been extraordinary, with annual visitation growing from approximately 3.4 million visitors in 2018 to more than 10 million annual visitors today."

Related: The "Yellowstone Effect" is Driving a Massive Texas Travel Boom

The 39-Day World Cup Action & Daily Rodeos

Fort Worth Stockyards

For anyone arriving this month, the timing couldn't be more perfect. The global spotlight from the soccer tournament is turning the entire historic district into a non-stop festival.

"The 2026 FIFA World Cup is going to transform the Fort Worth Stockyards into one of the most exciting entertainment districts in the country," notes Newell. "From June 11 through July 19, the district will host 39 straight days of programming designed to immerse visitors in Texas culture while celebrating the global spirit of the tournament."

The biggest draw of the summer is happening inside the historic Cowtown Coliseum, which is hosting nonstop live events. "One of the most exciting developments is that Cowtown Coliseum will host western sports programming every single day during the tournament window, including 46 rodeos and western sporting events across 39 days," Newell explains. "That includes Stockyards Championship Rodeos, weekly PBR showcases, Ultimate Bullfighters, barrel racing events and the iconic Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrating the legacy of Black cowboys and rodeo athletes."

Between the events, the streets will be filled with Michelob Ultra Fan Zones, live music playing across dozens of stages and Old West comedy shows. Travelers can drop into Billy Bob's Texas for line dancing lessons, catch the Latin-inspired "Domingos de Fiesta" celebrations every Sunday, or take in the "Red, White & Boots America250 celebration leading into Fourth of July festivities."

Related: Why Summer 2026 Is the Best Time to Score a Value-Packed Austin Escape

Where to Unwind: Luxury Drovers and Outlaw History

Hotel Drover

Navigating a high-energy summer trip requires a great place to stay when the Texas sun gets high, and the Stockyards now has two standout properties that cover both ends of the design spectrum.

"Hotel Drover is always at the top of my list because it captures the spirit of Fort Worth so beautifully," Newell recommends. "It’s luxurious while still feeling warm, authentic and deeply connected to Western culture. Between the incredible design, 97 West Kitchen & Bar, the Lobby Bar, Lucchese Custom Collection experience and live music and s’mores in The Backyard, it’s truly an immersive stay."

If you prefer your luxury wrapped in deep, storied history, you can look to a legendary property right down the street that is getting ready for a massive second act. "I also love recommending the historic Stockyards Hotel because it embodies Old West history and has welcomed everyone from Bonnie & Clyde to legendary country music artists over the years," Newell notes. "We’re also incredibly excited about the transformation of the historic Stockyards Hotel, which is currently undergoing a major reimagination and is expected to debut a new restaurant in late 2026 ahead of the hotel’s grand reopening in early 2027."

Related: Marriott Launches New Road Trip Planner To Make Traveling Route 66 This Summer a Breeze

The Dining and Shopping Trail

Fort Worth Stockyards

When it comes to eating, the Stockyards has entirely stepped out of the shadow of standard Texas barbecue pits to build a seriously fantastic food scene. For an upscale evening out, Newell points directly to the center of Mule Alley and Hotel Drover. "I always recommend 97 West Kitchen & Bar for elevated Texas cuisine and a beautiful atmosphere inside Hotel Drover," she says.

For something completely legendary, you can walk a few blocks over to one of the most famous dining rooms in the state. "Lonesome Dove Western Bistro remains one of the most iconic dining experiences in Fort Worth thanks to chef Tim Love’s inventive take on Western cuisine," Newell shares. "For a lively atmosphere, Paloma Suerte is fantastic for modern Mexican food and cocktails, while Provender Hall is a favorite for Southern comfort food."

After dinner, you can spend hours exploring Mule Alley, which Newell notes "continues to evolve as one of the most exciting lifestyle destinations in Texas, with standout restaurants, Western fashion retailers, experiential shopping, bars, and entertainment concepts all contributing to the district’s continued momentum."

The shopping throughout the district focuses heavily on elite craftsmanship and custom-fit pieces that double as a physical souvenir from the trip. "Shopping in the Stockyards is such a unique experience because every storefront feels tied to Western heritage and craftsmanship," Newell says. "I always recommend visiting M.L. Leddy's for custom boots and saddles, especially after being named one of the best clothing stores in America by the NY Times. Lucchese is another must for handcrafted boots and luxury Western fashion, while Tecovas and Old Gringo Boots are favorites for modern Western style."

If you want a souvenir that is entirely unique to your style, you can head to a local workshop to design your own. "I also love Flea Style because visitors can customize hats and truly create a one-of-a-kind keepsake!" Newell adds.

Before you head home, Newell notes that you have to experience the true staples of the district: catching live music at Billy Bob’s Texas, exploring the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and standing along the wood-planked pathways for the twice-daily cattle drive. "You absolutely have to experience the twice-daily cattle drive, it’s one of the most iconic and authentic attractions in Texas," she says. And for the ultimate quiet escape to close out the weekend? Head down to the riverfront for a peaceful afternoon of horseback riding directly along the historic Chisholm Trail to experience the Texas landscape exactly as the original drovers did.

Related: This Beach in Texas Was Just Ranked No. 1 For Its Soft Sand, Turquoise Water and Gulf Coast Breezes

Kimchi has quietly gone from a niche specialty item tucked into the international aisle to a refrigerator (and shelf-stable) staple for home cooks. Once something you might only encounter at a Korean restaurant, it's now showing up everywhere from grain bowls and sandwiches to scrambled eggs and even grilled cheese.

Traditionally, kimchi is a Korean side dish made by fermenting vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage, with ingredients like garlic, ginger, chili peppers and seasonings. The fermentation process creates its signature tangy flavor while also helping preserve the vegetables, a practice that dates back centuries in Korean cuisine. And while its growing popularity is certainly tied to the rise of Korean food in the U.S., there's also no denying that people have become fascinated with fermented foods in general. Between the bold flavor, satisfying crunch and reputation as a gut-friendly food, kimchi has earned a permanent place in many shoppers' carts.

As someone who always seems to have a jar lurking somewhere in the back of the fridge, I was curious to find the best kimchi brand that actually deserves that coveted "rebuy" status. Some kimchis lean heavily into spice, while others focus on tangy fermentation. Some stay remarkably crisp, while others become softer and funkier over time.

You'll also find significant differences in how the vegetables are cut, the intensity of the garlic and ginger, and even whether the product is refrigerated or shelf-stable. With more brands than ever available at mainstream grocery stores, choosing a jar can feel surprisingly overwhelming.

For this taste test, I gathered 12 widely available kimchi brands and put them head-to-head. A few came highly recommended by friends and followers, others were top sellers at local grocery stores, and one was a familiar favorite from my days working in the Rachael Ray Show prep kitchen. I was especially interested to see whether nostalgia and familiarity would hold up against the competition.

Armed with chopsticks and plenty of water, I spent an afternoon tasting my way through jars ranging from mild and approachable to intensely fermented and fiery. Some were immediate standouts, some were surprisingly disappointing, and one brand pulled so far ahead of the pack that the winner became obvious after just a few bites.

Related: The Korean Way To Make Iced Coffee Taste 10x Better

How I Chose the Kimchi Brands

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

To build this ranking, I wanted a mix of the brands people are actually buying and eating. I started by polling friends, family members and followers to find out which kimchi they always keep stocked in their refrigerators. Then I visited several local grocery stores and specialty markets to see which brands appeared most frequently on shelves and seemed to have the strongest retail presence.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Fermented Foods Every Day

How I Tested the Kimchi

For this particular taste test, simplicity felt like the fairest approach. Rather than pairing the kimchi with rice, noodles, eggs or other dishes, I decided to taste each one completely on its own.

Armed with nothing more than chopsticks, I sampled every brand straight from the container. That allowed me to focus on the elements that matter most: crunch, texture, spice level, acidity, fermentation, freshness and overall balance. Eating the kimchi by itself also ensured that no supporting ingredients could mask flaws or enhance strengths.

Between samples, I cleansed my palate with water to keep flavors from blending together. While some kimchis are specifically designed to be cooked into soups, fried rice or stews, my goal was to evaluate how enjoyable each brand was right out of the jar.

Related: Looking to Give Your Gut a Little Reset? These 50 Probiotic Foods Are a Great Place to Start

Parade

12 Kimchi Brands, Ranked Worst To Best

Here's how they stacked up.

12. Jongga Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This was the biggest disappointment of the tasting. While it delivered a deep, fermented flavor profile, it was overwhelmingly salty and the texture didn't hold up nearly as well as some of the fresher options.

The pouch packaging may be convenient, but the overall experience fell flat for me. Compared to the competition, this was the easiest one to place at the bottom of the list.

11. Jayone Napa Cabbage Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

I love the idea of a shelf-stable canned kimchi, especially for bringing along on camping trips, beach vacations or keeping stocked in the pantry. Unfortunately, the texture was quite mushy and the flavor leaned heavily salty and garlic-forward. While it has its place from a convenience standpoint, it wasn't one I'd reach for based on taste alone.

10. 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Raw Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This kimchi had more of a chow chow or relish-like texture thanks to its finely chopped vegetables. It tasted fresh, but the acidity really dominated every bite. While some people may appreciate that sharp tang, I found it overwhelmed the other flavors that make kimchi so enjoyable.

9. Ocean's Halo Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

The shredded texture immediately stood out and made this one incredibly easy to eat. Rather than tasting like traditional kimchi, though, it reminded me more of a sour sauerkraut. It's approachable, mild and would make an excellent gateway kimchi for anyone just starting to explore fermented foods.

8. Trader Joe's Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This is exactly what you'd expect from a grocery store staple. It has the classic red color, larger cabbage pieces and familiar kimchi flavor profile that most people associate with the dish. If you're already shopping at Trader Joe's, it's a solid pickup, but I wouldn't make a special trip just for this jar.

7. Surasang Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

For a shelf-stable option, this one was surprisingly impressive. The flavor tasted bright and fresh, and the texture held up far better than I expected. While it didn't have quite enough complexity to crack the top tier, it proved that good kimchi doesn't necessarily have to come from the refrigerated section.

6. Ozuké Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

The first thing you'll notice when opening this jar is the incredible ginger aroma. It's light, refreshing and has a beautiful shredded texture that would be perfect on rice bowls, sandwiches or tacos. The spice comes more from the ginger than chili powders, making it a unique option in this lineup.

5. Nasoya Authentic Korean Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

Fresh, crisp and delightfully crunchy, this kimchi checked a lot of boxes for me. Every bite tasted vibrant and lively, and I loved the packaging as well. It's an easy-to-find option that delivers the freshness many people are looking for in a refrigerated kimchi.

4. Sinto Gourmet Mild White Napa Cabbage Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

Unlike many of the traditional red kimchis in this tasting, this white kimchi takes a different approach. The vegetables were incredibly crisp and offered one of the best snaps and crunches of the entire lineup. The ginger-forward flavor felt fresh and bright, making this a standout option for anyone who prefers less heat.

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• I Juiced Lemons Using 6 Different Methods To Find the Best Way—and the Winner Was Very Clear
• I Tried 12 Frozen Lasagnas To Find the Best

3. wildbrine Korean Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This kimchi struck a wonderful balance between freshness, spice and classic flavor. The vegetables were slightly softer than some of the crunchier options, but the overall taste felt incredibly authentic and satisfying. The spice level was noticeable without being overwhelming, making it one of the easiest kimchis to keep going back for.

2. Hosan Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This was easily the biggest surprise of the tasting. Despite coming in a can, it managed to maintain a fresh texture and classic kimchi flavor that rivaled many refrigerated competitors.

If I hadn't opened the can myself, I never would have guessed it was shelf-stable. It's proof that convenience and quality can absolutely coexist. This was a World Market find and I will for sure be stocking up.

1. Mother-in-Law's Kimchi

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

The winner by a landslide. Mother-in-Law's Kimchi delivered everything I was looking for: freshness, crunch, balance and incredible flavor. The larger cabbage pieces felt intentional and premium, with every bite tasting vibrant and expertly made.

While I typically gravitate toward shredded kimchis, this one continued to be the best store-bought kimchi I've ever tried. A clear standout of the entire tasting.

Final Takeaways

The best kimchi comes down to personal preference. Some people love a bold, funky fermentation that packs a punch, while others prefer a fresher, crunchier bite with a little less heat. What became clear during this taste test is that not all store-bought kimchi is created equal, some brands delivered the complex, tangy flavor and satisfying texture that make kimchi so beloved, while others fell flat.

Whether you're piling it onto rice bowls, tucking it into grilled cheese sandwiches, stirring it into fried rice, or simply eating it straight from the jar, a great kimchi can instantly elevate a meal. With so many excellent options now available at mainstream grocery stores, there's never been a better time to find a favorite and keep a jar stocked in the fridge.

Up Next:

Related: I Tried 6 Viral Costco Food Court Hacks: 4 Are Genius (And 2 To Skip)

By 1980, Billy Joel had officially made it. He'd put out six albums, including 1977's critically acclaimed The Stranger, and had several songs break into the Hot 100. Even so, he had yet to release a chart-topping single, with "Just the Way You Are" getting closest at No. 2. But that all changed with Glass Houses and "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me."

The Critics' Target Strikes Back

Ironically, the very song that would catapult Joel to his first No. 1 hit was written as a scathing rebuke of the music critics who had tried to pigeonhole him.

"Robert Hilburn [music critic for the Los Angeles Times] does this all the time, saying, in so many words, that 'Billy Joel is not an artist but a pop star,'" Joel complained to Rolling Stone shortly after the album debuted. "The thing that got me about that was, people who are looking for art in rock & roll or pop are looking for something that either doesn’t or shouldn’t exist there."

Refusing to be boxed in by the music press, Joel leaned heavily into the exploding New Wave scene, but with a massive twist. He insisted this "new" sound wasn't actually new at all. Instead, it was a sleek, aggressive throwback to the glorious, pre-Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band era of raw jukebox rock.

"I grew up on jukebox music, and everybody in the band has played this music all their lives, and they range in age from twenty-eight to thirty-one," he argued.

"What I’m saying in 'It’s Still Rock and Roll' is that I happen to like Donna Summer’s hits," he added.

Two Weeks at the Top

The song spent two glorious weeks at No. 1, proving that whether he was channeling New Wave edge, classic jukebox grit, or straight-up pop perfection, Joel answered only to his audience. By refusing to let the critics dictate the rhythm of his career, Joel turned his first chart-topping triumph into the ultimate victory lap with the loud proclamation, "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me."

I'm always on the lookout for the next seasonal snack at the Costco bakery that feels fun, shareable and worth grabbing. This summer, one new dessert has been getting a lot of attention online, with shoppers calling it the "perfect summer treat" for gatherings, parties and everyday cravings. I'm definitely grabbing this one!

A New Costco Dessert Has Shoppers Talking

The latest item getting attention is a set of lemon blondie dessert bars now available in Costco bakeries. The Instagram post from @costconewdeals featuring the treat shows a bright, citrusy dessert that blends a chewy blondie base with a sweet lemon filling and a chocolate drizzle on top. The price is $8.99 for a 16-count tray.

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On Instagram, shoppers have been quick to praise the new bars, with one fan calling them the "perfect summer treat." The bright lemon flavor and easy grab-and-go format make them especially appealing during warm-weather months, when people want something refreshing yet sweet.

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Lemon desserts tend to peak in popularity during the summer. Their citrus-forward flavor offers a lighter alternative to heavier baked goods, which is one reason items like these bars often gain traction quickly when they hit store shelves.

Sam's Club has also recently released similar lemon bars that tap into the same demand for easy, shareable treats.

Related: Costco Is Selling Classic Organic Cotton Tees for Just $11

Why Lemon Blondies Are So Popular

Lemon blondie bars are a twist on traditional blondies, which are known for their dense, chewy texture and buttery flavor. Instead of relying on chocolate, these bars use lemon juice and zest to bring in a bright citrus flavor that cuts through the richness.

Unlike classic lemon bars, which typically sit on a shortbread crust and feature a custard-style filling, lemon blondies skip the crust entirely. That makes them simpler to assemble and easier to eat in bar form. They work well for summer barbecues, family gatherings or casual snacking after a Costco run. Just grab Costco's new fajita kit and a pack of these lemon blondies, and you're set for a delicious evening in.

Between the strong response from shoppers online and the budget-friendly price point, it is easy to see why Costco shoppers are already calling this new dessert the "perfect summer treat," especially as more people look for simple, shareable sweets to enjoy during warm-weather gatherings and casual get-togethers.

Related: Costco Shoppers Are Celebrating the Return of This Bakery Favorite

In 1971, Traffic released one of their most iconic songs, “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys.” Written by Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi, the song appeared on the album of the same name and stretched nearly 12 minutes long—too long to be released as a single. But it was still a game-changer for the English rock band.

“The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” opened with a quiet fade-in, then unleashed an 11-minute build-up of hypnotic jazzy instrumentals and moody vocals that also ended with a fade.

Ultimate Classic Rock ranked the progressive rock masterpiece one of the “Top Long Rock Songs” of all time, pointing to its iconic fade-in/fade out and symphonic instrumentals that almost feel “improvisational” throughout. “Chris Wood’s sax parts waft in from a distance as Steve Winwood plays a deliberate piano piece, eventually adding his organ part to further flesh things out,” the outlet shared.  “As they dig into the instrumental section at 5:24, things then build to the point that it feels like Traffic is just going to play things out – but here comes the third verse.”

Winwood once looked back on Traffic’s fusion of musical styles in an interview on In the Studio With Redbeard. “With Traffic, we wanted to actually create music which contained many elements,” the music legend said. “Not excluding blues and rhythm and blues, but also including folk music, jazz, rock and various kinds of ethnic music.”

The title to “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” didn’t come from the songwriters. According to Glide magazine, Capaldi once revealed that it came during a trip to Morocco with Bonnie and Clyde actor Michael J. Pollard, as the two brainstormed “ridiculous” ideas for a movie that never got off the ground.

“Before I left Morocco, Pollard wrote in my book ‘The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys,’” Capaldi recalled. “For me, it summed him up. He had this tremendous rebel attitude. He walked around in his cowboy boots, his leather jacket. ... It seemed to sum up all the people of that generation who were just rebels. The ‘Low Spark,’ for me, was the spirit, high-spirited. You know, standing on a street corner. The low rider. The ‘Low Spark’ meaning that strong undercurrent at the street level.”

“The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” received regular airplay on AOR rock radio stations, despite its run time of 11 minutes and 44 seconds. The song also helped Traffic’s 1971 album reach No. 7 on Billboard’s 200 album chart, making it the band’s best-selling album of all time and only platinum release.

Related: 1971 Classic Rock Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Road-Trip Songs of All Time’—Still a Timeless Anthem 55 Years Later

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to plan a weekend getaway to Boston, your window has officially arrived. This summer, the city is buzzing with the electric energy of the World Cup. With matches officially kicking off this weekend, and running straight through July, the region is serving up an unforgettable global atmosphere.

Boston Stadium (Gillette Stadium in Foxborough) is hosting a massive slate of seven historic games. The lineup features everything from the Group C opener between Haiti and Scotland to a high-stakes Tuesday clash between Iraq and Norway, a massive England vs. Ghana showdown on June 23, and a coveted Quarter-Final match on July 9.

Thankfully, you don't need a ticket to the stadium to get in on the action. If you want to experience the best of the city's watch parties, eat incredible food and avoid game-day traffic, anchoring your trip at a great harborfront hotel is the perfect way to play it. Here's where to stay, eat and play for the ultimate match-day vacation.

Related: 11 Best Free World Cup Fan Festivals & Watch Parties 2026

The Ultimate Harborfront Stay

Omni Seaport Boston

If you're trying to navigate Boston when it's packed with international soccer fans, your choice of neighborhood is everything. Staying right in the middle of the historic center means fighting intense gridlock. Instead, anchoring yourself at the Omni Boston at the Seaport puts you just far enough outside the fray to breathe, while keeping you an easy water taxi or T ride away from the action.

If you want to experience the local Seaport creative scene, go with the Artist Tower for chic, loft-style rooms and an energetic vibe. Or, if you want a more exclusive feel, book into the Patron Tower to enjoy ultra-comfortable bedding alongside stellar views of the bustling harbor district—the perfect quiet visual space to unwind after a day of dodging match-day crowds.

You can easily spend an entire afternoon lounging beside the stunning rooftop pool before heading to Breve, the hotel's exceptional full-service spa, where a restorative Ocean Rhapsody massage offers the perfect relaxing respite after pounding the pavement.

When cocktail hour rolls around, head straight to Lifted Pool Bar & Grill, the hotel's rooftop culinary hotspot. Inside, the space opens up completely as the massive windows roll fully open, garage-door style, directly out over the street below, creating an incredibly airy, above-it-all atmosphere. It's the ultimate spot to sip an outdoor Aperol Spritz alongside elevated, open-air bites.

For soccer superfans looking to level up their vacation, the hotel is running two tailored tournament stays. Their baseline Seaport Soccer Package secures your match-day home base with a premium room and a daily powerhouse breakfast for two to fuel you up before the first whistle blows. But if you want the ultimate "wow" experience, go for the All-Access Pass. This exclusive package is the only hotel offering in the city that guarantees coveted entry to sold-out tournament matches, complete with private round-trip transportation to the venue, insider access to a private VIP lounge and a themed keepsake gift to commemorate the historic night.

Related: Airbnb Announces FIFA World Cup 2026 Experiences

A Picture-Perfect Seaport Morning

ICA

The beauty of the Seaport location is how it connects to the city's modern art and premier culinary scene. Wake up early, head outside and grab a beautifully crafted specialty latte and pastry from local staple Tatte Bakery & Cafe to fuel your morning stroll along the harbor. If you're staying right at the Omni, you can also pop into Cocorico, a chic, French-inspired café right on the property, for a perfect espresso and a flaky pistachio croissant.

From there, take a short walk over to the iconic, waterfront Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA). The architectural marvel is currently hosting two brilliant, highly buzzed-about rotating exhibitions—including a major survey of Derrick Adams and the retrospective Say It Loud—that expertly put emerging artists in conversation with pop culture, history and the modern Black experience. It’s the perfect, thought-provoking detour before you dive into match-day excitement.

When you're ready to transition from morning art to serious eating, gather your friends for a high-energy brunch at Lolita Fort Point. Snag an outside table with excellent, sparkling views of the Fort Point Channel and prepare to indulge. The food absolutely delivers, with a menu packed with fresh guacamole, house-made tortilla chips and rich, cheesy Steak Quesabirria that pair perfectly with a crisp morning cocktail.

For dinner, you can explore their other stunners right nearby or just a short T ride away. Downtown, check out Mariel, an absolute showstopper of a restaurant located in a stunningly renovated historic bank that serves as a vibrant ode to Cuban culture, or Yvonne’s, a dramatic, modern interpretation of a classic supper club hidden away in a historic alleyway that blends high-touch service with unparalleled people-watching. At the brand-new Zebra Room—hidden behind a bookcase in Yvonne’s lower level—subterranean 1970s speakeasy vibes meet an ultra-exclusive, 10-table steakhouse supper club featuring tableside martinis and an olive snow wagyu NY strip.

Related: The Best Summer Cruise on the East Coast Isn't Where You Think

Where to Catch the Global Match-Day Energy

The Fenway

If you want to trade the harbor strolls for the electric energy of international football culture, you don't even have to secure a stadium ticket to be part of the crowd. The entire city is turning out to support the tournament with major neighborhood-wide activations that feel like massive, multi-cultural block parties running all month long.

The epicenter of the neighborhood action is Fenway FC at The Fenway. Running from the June 11 previews straight through the World Cup Final on July 19, this massive celebration completely transforms Time Out Market Boston, Cisco Brewers and The Green at 401 Park into tournament headquarters. Visitors can pull up to watch matches streamed live on giant, large-format outdoor LED screens, enjoy live music and catch the action inside or out on the lawn.

The best part is the global culinary lineup. Guests can settle into Cisco's sprawling beer garden with cold craft pours and bites, or taste their way around the world via 14 chef-driven kitchens serving food and beverage specials explicitly inspired by the participating nations. When it’s time to eat, neighborhood patio seats at MIDA, bartaco, Shy Bird and The Citizen put you right in the thick of the street-level energy.

Right around the corner, the surrounding Fenway streets are completely dialed into the global energy. Local hotspots like Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co. are hosting viewing events for all 104 tournament games, featuring full sound, interactive soccer activations and exclusive commemorative gear for fans looking to take home a piece of the summer. Even Fenway Park itself is getting in on the action, hosting unique cultural celebrations to welcome the waves of visiting international fans.

If you want to view the celebration from a totally different perspective, you can trade the crowded pub floors for a sky-high view of the city. Heading 750 feet up to the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower brings you to View Boston. For this historic summer, the entire observation deck has been transformed by TYGER Productions into a stunning architectural garden complete with bold floral meadows, creating a viral photo moment high above the city. It's an incredible spot to pair 360-degree panoramic views with artisanal summer cocktails during their new Golden Hour social series, letting you watch the sun set over a city in full celebration mode.

Related: This America's 250th Cruise Kicks off in Oregon in May and Ends in Boston in July—See How

John Stamos is getting candid about a cosmetic decision he says didn’t go as planned—and the unexpected Hollywood connection that helped fix it.

Stamos reflected on a decades-long injury that led to two surgeries, ultimately turning to singer Michael Jackson’s plastic surgeon. “I broke it when I was a kid. I got hit with a golf club. There was a little scar here,” Stamos said on The Really Good Podcast about breaking his nose. “And I was on General Hospital, and I just didn’t like the way it looked, and so I got it done, and it didn’t look great.”

Adding, “And then I went and I actually had it fixed by Michael Jackson’s guy.” Jackson, who died in 2009 at age 50, had a string of surgeries, including two on his nose. His procedures were often criticized as excessive, with some claiming they dramatically changed his appearance.

Stamos felt confident in Jackson’s plastic surgeon after the initial surgery. He reflected on the experience in his memoir, writing, “Everyone who gets a nose job tries to find some excuse other than vanity, but let’s call it what it was — vanity,” adding that he was “not all that happy with it. My nose looks kind of pushed up like Peter Pan or something. So on my next hiatus, I have it redone by Michael Jackson’s plastic surgeon.”

Stamos, 62, is often noted for his youthful appearance and recently shared insights into how he maintains his youthful glow.

“I stopped drinking 10 years ago. That’s why I’m alive,” he told Us Weekly. “I never would have met my wife [Caitlin McHugh] if I was still drinking. I’m happy where I’m at in my career, but I think I would be a lot further along if I’d stopped sooner. I got the job done, but I could have done it better, and I could have been more connected.”

He added, “I wash my face. Depends on if there’s some scrub around. I work out three or four times a week. I do this electric muscle-stimulation thing where you put a suit on, but you only wear it for 20 minutes. But good sleep now is important. Having a young son helps.”

Courteney Cox is honoring her and David Arquette's stunning daughter, Coco, on her 22nd birthday.

Cox, 61, rose to stardom on the hit NBC comedy Friends alongside Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc. Also known for her roles in the Scream franchise and on the hit show Cougar Town, the brunette beauty has launched an entrepreneurial side in recent years with Homecourt, a luxury beauty and home-care brand. But of all her roles, Cox's favorite is as a devoted mom to Coco, who just turned 22. In a sweet photo, Cox shared a rare shot of Coco as she honored the young woman on her birthday. In a fun comparison, the second slide shows Coco as a little girl, clinging to her mother while enjoying a dip in the ocean.

"Happy Birthday Co. You are such a wise soul. Funniest person I know and my life teacher. I love you x 🍋🍋🍋," Cox captioned the slides.

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David Arquette Also Honored His Daughter

Arquette, 54, who is known for diverse roles ranging from Dewey in the Scream films to his work in professional wrestling, also honored his stunning daughter with a beautiful photo.

"I’m so proud to be your papa @cocoarquette_ Happy 22nd Birthday! I know this is going to be a magical world," Arquette captioned the stunning shot of Coco.

View this post on Instagram Lisa Kudrow and Jennifer Aniston Want to Reunite with Courteney Cox

Over 30 years after Aniston and Kudrow first rose to fame on Friends, the duo is open to reuniting onscreen with Courteney Cox.

Kudrow, 62, who is best known for her memorable role as the blonde Phoebe on the beloved series, sat down with Aniston, who played the spoiled Rachel Green on the show, for the new Variety cover story.

“I would love to do another one, if anyone wrote a good one. Let’s do it. You heard it here!” Kudrow shared during the interview. “Can we do you, me and Courteney? What would that be?”

“Girlfriends. Let’s pitch it. Let’s workshop it in front of all of these wonderful people,” Aniston saidin response.

With millions of Friends stars around the world, it’s safe to say that theshow would be a success.

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Related: ‘Friends’ Legend Lisa Kudrow, 62, Still Glows on the Red Carpet After Sharing She Quit Botox

Hiring a financial advisor sounds like a great idea, unless you overlook one key factor. Financial advisors help millions of Americans manage their money and plan for their futures, but only some keep their best interests at the forefront of their advice. This isn’t just a technicality; it can affect your entire portfolio. 

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Related: There Are Three Phases to Retirement Spending, but Most People Only Plan for One

What “Fiduciary” Actually Means

Simply put, a fiduciary is someone who is legally required to put your best interests first rather than their own. Fiduciaries sit above the “suitability standard” because they don’t just recommend products that are adequate; they make an effort to match you with the ones that will best enhance your personal situation. Under the lower 'suitability standard,' an advisor only needs to recommend products that are appropriate for your situation — not necessarily the best ones available

Think about it like this. You go to a doctor who gets hit up by a ton of pharmaceutical reps daily and gets some nice kickbacks from the maker of one blood pressure medication. The doctor prescribes you that one because the company makes it worth their while, rather than prescribing the one with the fewest side effects. 

"Not all financial advisors are the same. It's important to know whether your financial advisor is a fiduciary — one of the highest standards under the law and a requirement that they act in your best interest rather than theirs,” says Jeffrey Snyder of the Broadcast Retirement Network.

Watch Snyder break it down in less than 2 minutes: 

Why It Matters To Your Wallet

A non-fiduciary advisor can legally earn commissions on the products they recommend, creating a built-in conflict of interest. For example, they could recommend a mutual fund with a higher fee to earn a larger commission rather than a less expensive one that saves you cash. Those differences compound significantly over decades.

Questions To Ask Your Advisor

Three concrete steps you can take today to protect your money and best interests include asking these questions:

• “Are you a fiduciary 100% of the time?”
• “Is your fee structure fee-only or commission-based?” (Most fiduciaries are fee-only.)
• “Where can I see your credentials?” (Look for RIA (Registered Investment Advisor) status at investor.gov, or CFP designation via cfp.net)

Related: What Retirees Should Know About ChatGPT's New Personal Finance Tools

What To Do If They Aren’t

If you discover your advisor isn’t a fiduciary, it’s not an automatic dealbreaker, but it does mean you need to get more clarification. You’ll need to ask more upfront questions about commissions, conflicts of interest, and fee disclosures. It's also worth checking FINRA BrokerCheck to verify there's no litigation or pending disciplinary action against them or their firm. If you’re retirement planning or looking at large investment decisions, it’s best to go with a fiduciary, even if the advisor is transparent. 

So now that you’re armed with this knowledge, your next step should be to set up a meeting and ask the hard questions. If you’re going to trust someone with your money, you should know what else is guiding their advice. 

Sources:

• FINRA BrokerCheck (brokercheck.finra.org)
• SEC investor.gov
• CFP Board (cfp.net)
• Jeffrey Snyder of the Broadcast Retirement Network.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice.

Once one of Hollywood's most beloved comedy duos, Seth Rogen and James Franco haven't worked together in years—and it appears there's little chance of that changing.

Rogen recently offered a candid update on his relationship with longtime friend and frequent collaborator, revealing they haven't spoken in a long time and suggesting that some wounds from Franco's fall from grace may never fully heal.

“I honestly think the nuance of it is too personal for me to get into right now," Rogen told The New York Times when asked if he'd ever work with Franco again.

"It is a very personal thing. There’s the public-facing side of it, which I’ve spoken about, and I have the same stance publicly that I’ve had, and I think the proof is in the pudding — I have not worked with him in years," Rogen continued. "But the personal side of it is just so nuanced, and it involves people that I don’t know if I should be dragging into this. I don’t know what I would benefit from getting deeply into it. Nothing has changed since the last time I talked about all this, and I haven’t worked with him in a really long time, and I have no plans to.”

Rogen publicly distanced himself from Franco in 2021 after the actor faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2018, five women accused Franco of sexually inappropriate or exploitative behavior, and in 2019, two former acting students filed a lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct at his acting school. The case was settled in 2021. Franco later acknowledged having sexual relationships with students and said his behavior was wrong.

When asked during The New York Times interview whether he still talks to Franco, Rogen didn't mince words: "I haven't talked to him in a long time, no."

Franco acknowledged the end of their relationship in 2024, telling Variety, "I haven't talked to Seth. I love Seth. We had 20 great years together, but I guess it's over."

Rogen and Franco collaborated on a string of popular comedies, beginning with the 1999 cult series Freaks and Geeks and continuing with films such as Knocked Up, Pineapple Express, This Is the End, and The Interview.

You finally retired. No alarm clock, no deadlines, no Sunday scaries. So why are you still not sleeping?

Many retirees have found themselves struggling with sleep, even without an alarm to snooze. That's because retirement can bring its own set of sleep challenges, which may surprise some retirees who assume they'll sleep more soundly once work stress no longer keeps them up at night. But, according to the sleep expert we spoke with, there's a very good reason why you're still struggling with your sleep in retirement—and he has a few tips on how adults over 60 can fix it.

The Surprising Reason Retirement Can Wreck Your Sleep

If you're struggling to catch some zzzz's in retirement, you're not alone. Dr. Eric Zhou, an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and a faculty member in the Division of Sleep Medicine, says there are a few reasons this happens, some more obvious than others.

"As we age, rates of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and periodic limb movement disorder increase," he explains, adding that this happens at the same time that other age-related health issues can start to present. "So by the time someone hits retirement, it is likely that there are more medical challenges to deal with that can impact sleep in a negative way."

Related: Retirement Shock Is Real—Psychologists Say Most People Never See It Coming

But beyond the typical physical changes people go through at this age, Dr. Zhou says a lack of structure can also disrupt your sleep. "A major issue is that there is much less structure imposed on their day by needing to wake up at a certain time Monday-Friday for work," he says. "Perhaps just as important as this lack of structure in their schedule is a lack of activity during the daytime."

According to Dr. Zhou, the lack of things to keep busy can lead some retirees to nap during the day or go to bed earlier, resulting in them spending more time in bed than they need to. "The combination of an inconsistent sleep schedule and spending excessive time in bed can result in the development of insomnia symptoms," he continues. "People do not typically magically begin to require more sleep after retirement, so these changes can result in more fragmented and unpredictable sleep patterns."

The Simple Fixes That Can Help You Sleep Soundly Again

The good news is that you can make a few tweaks to your day to help ensure you're getting the right amount of shuteye each night. First, Dr. Zhou says you should meet with your doctor to get a physical to make sure there aren't any health-related concerns keeping you up at night.

"While these issues may not be the primary cause of poor sleep, they can certainly contribute, and you are much better off learning how to sleep right without the added burden of poorly managed chronic medical conditions," he says.

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Next, he suggests setting a sleep schedule...and sticking with it. "Contrary to popular opinion, ending your sleep at the same time is far more important than going to bed at the same time," he says. "This is because if sleep ends at the same time each morning, it establishes a strong rhythm which establishes when you will feel sleepy on the next night."

After that, Dr. Zhou says you'll want to make sure you're getting outside first thing in the morning. "This powerful circadian rhythm signal sets your internal biological clock, and signals to your body that it is time to stop producing melatonin," he says. "As a result, you will begin to feel more alert in the morning."

Lastly, Dr. Zhou says that you should create a "do less" window each night. "A few hours before bedtime, turn off the laptop and stop trying to solve all of your day-to-day problems," he says. "Find activities that you enjoy or allow you to decompress. About an hour before bedtime, start winding down from cell phone use. I worry less about blue light exposure and more about the stress that cell phones create."

Thankfully, Dr. Zhou says that the data suggest that for many retirees, sleep improves in retirement. "As long as a retiree doesn't take too much advantage of the extra free time they have to stay in bed all day, retirement could be the cure to what ails their sleep!"

Related: Psychologists Say Retirement Loneliness Is Different From Regular Loneliness—and Much Harder to Fix

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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If you're keen on perfecting your street style, then you'll first need a pair of crisp and fashionable sneakers. The footwear can rack up a hefty bill though, which is why we're always looking for discounts that will upgrade your wardrobe without shattering your bank account. Luckily, Walmart has amazing discounts on shoes, like on the Skechers Street Highland Illuminated Sneaker, which is up to 47% off.

The sneaker initially cost $75, but has been reduced to just $40 during a limited-time sale. The four available colors include: black, light pink, off-white, and white. The pink is perfect for those looking to add a pop of color to their outfit, while the other minimalist hues are ideal for everyday. The available sizes range from 5 to 11, including half sizes, at a medium width. Shoppers say that the sneakers are true to size. 

Skechers Street Highland Illuminated Sneaker, $40 (was $75) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The sneaker features a classic lace-up style that allows you to adjust them throughout the day accordingly. The design consists of a sparkly star on the side that comes in various shades, and the brand name showcased on the top of the tongue. There's a 1.5-inch platform heel that gives you height while keeping your foot stable and comfortable. The sneaker is made of duraleather with a polyester insole, suede overlays, and a rubber outsole that provides flexible traction.

Skechers Street Highland Illuminated Sneaker, $40 (was $75) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The insole additionally features a breathable memory foam that is intended to keep your feet cool (which is essential for summer). Shoppers described the sneakers as "amazing," "wonderful," "gorgeous," "super cute," and "very comfortable." Several customers even purchased the footwear in several colors that they can rotate through during the week. 

Related: Walmart’s 'Absolutely Gorgeous' $48 100% Cotton Quilt Set Is 'Just the Right Weight' for Summer

Reviewers love how versatile the sneakers are, as you can wear them with everything from cargo pants to sundresses. Due to the fact that they have a design on the side, they're probably best for more casual settings. If you're on the hunt for even more comfy footwear, some of our other Walmart favorites include these Skechers athletic sneakers and cute $7 slip-on sneakers.  

Shop More Deals

• Temofon Maxi Skirt, $15 (was $27) at Walmart
• VDJ Wide Leg Pants, $14 (was $27) at Walmart
• Zimtown 5-Piece Luggage Set, $99 (was $192) at Walmart

Don't miss out on an opportunity to purchase comfortable shoes. These cool Skechers sneakers will be the style that you can't believe you lived without. Fortunately, you can shop them at Walmart for just $40 right now! 

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A rock song written in 1975 made a promise that nobody expected anyone to actually keep.

Fifty years later, it just might happen anyway.

The story starts in a small New York apartment, where Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons first met. Simmons saw the potential immediately. Stanley wasn't completely convinced. He almost said no to starting a band with Simmons at all. "I think he thought Lennon, McCartney and Gene were the only three songwriters in the world," Stanley said, "and all of a sudden he had to make room for a fourth."

He said yes anyway, and the two built KISS around an idea they borrowed from The Beatles. "We also took pride in having the same freedom The Beatles had," Simmons said. "Their philosophy was, 'No matter what kind of music we do, it's still The Beatles.' That's what was amazing about them. They could do music hall, psychedelia, anything, and they did. Yet somehow it always sounded like The Beatles."

Inside the band, Stanley had a specific job, and he explained it with a comparison that has nothing to do with rock and roll. "If we were making a cake, Gene would talk about the frosting and the dressing on the outside," he said. "And I would go, 'But we have to have a cake.'"

Related: 1960s British Band Outsold The Beatles, Had a Future Led Zeppelin Star, Then Just Vanished

That same instinct ended up shaping the band's biggest song, ‘Rock and Roll All Nite.’ Their record label told them they needed an "anthem." Back then, that wasn't really a common thing yet. "When I started writing it, there were no 'anthems,' per se," Stanley said. "Our record company president sat us down and told us we needed an anthem, and we had no idea what that meant. His examples were Sly and the Family Stone's 'I Want to Take You Higher' and 'Dance to the Music.'"

Stanley wrote the lyrics, then he realized they fit perfectly over a chorus that Simmons was already working on for a different song. The two pieces just made sense.

A Promise From 1975 Might Finally Come True

The album that song came from just got a 50th anniversary deluxe edition, with the track newly remastered.

But the bigger story might be what comes next for the rock icons.

KISS played their final live show in December 2023. Since then the band has been working with Pophouse Entertainment, the company behind ABBA Voyage, on an avatar-based show set to launch in Vegas in 2028. The avatars themselves are being built by Industrial Light & Magic, the visual effects company founded by George Lucas.

For Paul Stanley, it comes down to something very simple. "The great thing about being an icon is you can stay young forever," he said.

Doc McGhee, who's managed KISS since 1995, feels exactly the same way. "It's the ability to make KISS immortal and take them into the future," he said. "That's what everybody would want, it just was not previously possible or done correctly."

A song that promised to keep rocking forever might be about to get the chance to prove it.

"This is not the end," Gene Simmons said. "This is the beginning."

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At the height of the Disney Renaissance in the ‘90s, there was nothing more thrilling than getting film developed after a visit to Walt Disney World Resort.

Disposable cameras were all the rage, and I would race home to my local photo lab, hopeful that my photos would be as magical as I'd imagined. The roving photographers in the parks also shot on 35mm film, so even those images had to be developed and picked up later in the day.

Today, smartphones and the Disney PhotoPass system are both incredible: instant access to every shot, in quality I could only have dreamed of as a kid. As a journalist and mom, I'm grateful for both.

But there's another part of me that longs for a digital detox—for a time when I wasn't tethered to my phone. I wanted my kids to experience a Disney family vacation the way I remember it from the '90s: screen-free and full of presence.

Last week, we finally did it. Here's what worked, and why I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

Related: 15 Free Things You Can Do at Walt Disney World Without Entering the Parks

Planning a ‘90s-Style Disney Vacation Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, in a photo taken with a screen-free digital camera.

Photo by Linnea Bailey

For this trip, I wanted to mirror the type of vacation that we would have taken in the ‘90s. That meant staying in a classic Disney Resort Hotel and visiting a Disney water park, just like families did when multi-day passes often included water park admission.

As luck would have it, one of my all-time favorite Disney resorts opened in the early '90s: Disney's Port Orleans Resort—Riverside. And right now, Disney water park admission is free on arrival day for all resort hotel guests—so we took a Disney bus straight to Typhoon Lagoon, where we spent the day tackling water slides and floating in the lazy river.

The following day, we planned the kind of classic park-hopping itinerary I remember from childhood: a few favorite rides at Magic Kingdom, a Monorail trip to EPCOT for dinner and a couple more attractions, then back to Magic Kingdom for the fireworks and nighttime parade. Screen-free, the whole way.

Related: Why the Famous 3-2-1 Disney Hack Does Not Work For My Family

First, I Had to Actually Put the Phone Down The author with her family on a vintage stream train on the Walt Disney World Railroad at the Magic Kingdom, in a photo taken with a Camp Snap camera.

Photo by Linnea Bailey

Disney’s water parks have always been a phone-free space for our family (because really, who wants to carry a phone around a water park?). But this time I also did something I hadn’t done since the ‘90s: I bought a waterproof disposable camera to capture a few moments at the park. It felt surprisingly freeing to take photos with absolutely no idea what they'd look like.

For our theme park day, I also picked up a Camp Snap screen-free digital camera, which works like an old-school film camera but holds up to 500 images on a single charge. I didn't test it before the trip, so we decided we’d figure it out by taking photos, exactly like the old days.

And then my husband and I did something that felt almost radical: just inside the Magic Kingdom gates, we rented a $10 locker and locked our phones inside. For the entire day and evening. And it was wonderful.

Related: How I Pack For a 7-Day Disney World Trip With A Single Carry-On

Disney World Turned Out to Be the Perfect Place to Go Screen-Free—and Here's Why Two of the author's children peer into the Cinderella Wishing Well at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, in a photo taken with a screen-free digital camera.

Photo by Linnea Bailey

Going phone-free feels manageable at Disney World in a way it might not be elsewhere, and that’s by design.

Disney is renowned for its safety and its cast members, who are everywhere and always happy to help. Paper maps are available at every park entrance, making navigation easy without a screen. And Disney's legendary attention to detail means there's something to look at around every corner, including many things you may miss if you're staring at your phone.

In the interactive queue for Peter Pan's Flight, we walked through the Darling children’s nursery and watched our shadows come to life on the wall. Tinker Bell was causing mischief, and my kids loved it. It was the kind of moment I didn’t think to try to photograph, yet it was a beautiful family memory that we shared together.

Related: How Disney World Quietly Overhauls Iconic Rides Overnight—And What's Next

No Phone, No Problem—Here's How We Navigated the Parks the Old-Fashioned Way The Dapper Dans perform a cappella American standards and Disney classics along Main Street, U.S.A., at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom; photo taken with a Camp Snap camera.

Photo by Linnea Bailey

One modern shortcut did help make our phone-free day seamless: we each wore a Disney MagicBand+ linked to our hotel and park reservations, so we could scan into the parks and our hotel room without ever waiting in a ticket line. Our bands also linked ride photos directly to my Disney account for viewing later, and the kids love MagicBands because they light up and interact with park statues and rides.

Since I still wanted great vacation photos, I purchased the Disney PhotoPass Memory Maker in advance, which granted us unlimited shots with professional photographers stationed throughout the parks. It felt like the most '90s approach possible: have the photos taken, but don't see them until after the trip. No obsessing, no do-overs, just a fun surprise waiting for us at home.

Once inside each park, we picked up maps and used them to navigate. Rather than checking an app for showtimes, we simply asked cast members—which turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. Instead of a packed, minute-by-minute schedule, we moved freely through the parks and stumbled into magic as it happened. Two of my favorite moments included catching the Dapper Dans performing on Main Street, U.S.A., and the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade.

Related: Kylie Kelce Reveals Her No. 1 Tip for Surviving Disney Parks With 4 Kids

My Kids Noticed Something Was Different About This Vacation The author with her family at Walt Disney World's EPCOT.

Photo courtesy of Disney

I was unprepared for just how much my children would love the concept of an analog vacation. My 9-year-old, especially, embraced the challenge of navigating by park map and quickly became our default guide, leading us from land to land with enthusiasm.

My kids also adored using the Camp Snap camera to take their own photos; I handed it over and let them take as many photos as they wanted. Unlike the '90s, the generous storage limit meant I didn’t worry about wasting film.

And they loved the classic attractions, all of which existed in some form during the ‘90s. At the Magic Kingdom, our adventures included Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formerly Splash Mountain), Peter Pan’s Flight, “it’s a small world,” Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress and the Walt Disney World Railroad. At EPCOT, we journeyed through time on Spaceship Earth and then headed to the World Showcase for Frozen Ever After (formerly Maelstrom) in Norway, the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros in Mexico and a delicious Oktoberfest-style dinner at the Biergarten Restaurant in Germany.

Related: Here's How I Eat Gluten-Free at Disney World and Miss Nothing

I Stopped Documenting the Vacation and Started Having One Tiana's Bayou Adventure is one of the most popular rides at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom.

Photo by Olga Thompson, courtesy of Disney

Here's what I didn't expect: without my phone, I stopped worrying about how I looked.

When we all got soaked following a front-row ride on Tiana's Bayou Adventure, the eye makeup that I'd so carefully applied that morning was suddenly gone. And instead of feeling the need to fix it, I laughed and kept going. It sounds small, but it wasn't.

As a journalist, I photograph everything. But on this trip, something shifted. It felt like a vacation from a different era—one where I was fully present, soaking it all in rather than documenting it for later.

At one point on Tiana's Bayou Adventure, we rounded a bend and I spotted a quote from Tiana's father (from Disney's The Princess and the Frog) emblazoned on a water tower: "Never, ever lose sight of what's really important." Those words resonated deeply with me on this trip, and they embody the mindset I want to take with me on future vacations. 

If you’re ready to try it yourself, here’s how to make it work.

How to Plan Your Own Phone-Free Disney Vacation Two of the author's children at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, in a photo taken with a screen-free digital camera.

Photo by Linnea Bailey

Use the App Before You Go. The My Disney Experience app is an incredibly useful planning tool for making dining reservations, checking showtimes and booking Lightning Lanes in advance. Even if you won't use it during your trip, it's worth a thorough look beforehand.

Try a Disney MagicBand+. It may not have existed in the '90s, but it's the ultimate phone replacement at Disney. It works as your room key, park ticket, PhotoPass identifier and Lightning Lane access—all without ever pulling out your phone.

Lock Your Phone Up. We stored ours in a theme park locker rather than the hotel safe, so if we somehow got separated, we could always return to retrieve them. It was a simple safety net that made going phone-free feel risk-free.

Agree on a Meeting Spot. Without the option to call each other, we made sure our kids knew exactly what to do and where to go if they couldn't find us—just like families did in the '90s.

Find a Screen-Free Camera You Love. A disposable film camera or a screen-free digital camera like the Camp Snap are both great options. Or lean into the PhotoPass photographers and let the surprise photos be part of the fun.

Give Yourself Permission to Just Be There. Even when our phones weren't locked up, we made a conscious choice not to use them. We focused on spending time together and making memories as a family—which, after all, is the whole point of a vacation.

Related: 10 Cool Ways to Beat the Heat at Disney World This Summer

On June 14, 1961, Patsy Cline was involved in a terrifying car accident that nearly ended her life.

Instead, the tragedy became the backdrop for one of the most important moments in country music history.

That afternoon, Cline and her brother, Sam Hensley Jr., were seriously injured in a head-on collision near Madison High School outside Nashville. The crash left the singer with severe injuries, including a fractured hip, a badly injured wrist and a large cut across her forehead that required extensive treatment.

The injuries were so serious that Cline spent nearly two months recovering in the hospital.

At the time, her future as a performer was uncertain. Friends, family members and fellow musicians worried about whether she would ever fully recover.

But while Cline was confined to a hospital bed, something remarkable was happening.

Her latest single, "I Fall to Pieces," was quietly climbing the charts.

The song had gotten off to a slow start after its release. In fact, some industry observers questioned whether it would become a hit at all. Yet as Cline recovered from her injuries, radio audiences across the country began embracing the heartbreaking ballad.

By August 1961, "I Fall to Pieces" had reached No. 1 on the country chart, giving Cline the first country chart-topper of her career.

The success didn't stop there.

The song also crossed over to pop audiences, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping introduce Cline's distinctive voice to millions of listeners outside the country music world.

The achievement transformed her from a respected country performer into a national star.

Today, "I Fall to Pieces" is widely regarded as one of the defining recordings of Cline's career and one of the greatest country songs ever recorded. The track would later be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and remains a cornerstone of country music history.

Looking back, the timing remains extraordinary.

While recovering from a near-fatal accident that threatened to derail her career, Cline watched from a hospital room as the song that would change her life became her first No. 1 hit.

Related: When Country Legend When Dottie West Lost Her Possessions, Fans Stepped Up