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If you’re going to be in the Napa Valley this upcoming Independence Day weekend, we recommend taking the family to the Silverado July 4th parade in Calistoga.

A small-town, old-fashion parade at its finest, festivities begin at 11am. Get there early though–and bring lots of water. Due to its northernmost location in the valley, Calistoga is always [...]

Last night, I made the decision to spend time with my family rather than to write a blog post.

We are visiting my parents, and we were having such a lovely time that I just did not want to pull myself away.

And as I am not about to cheat and backdate–and I wasn’t happy with the lame posts of [...]

Seems to me that bocce is the official pastime of Saint Helena.

There is an actual Saint Helena Bocce League, which according to Metroactive “holds the title of the largest and most contentious area bocce league, with almost a sixth of the citizenry competing on 89 teams” (click here for the entire article).

Though I am not currently playing [...]

It gets hot here in the Napa Valley.

While many of the larger area hotels have swimming pools, many of the smaller hotels and B&Bs do not.

And, for locals–as we already know, many of the larger area homes have swimming pools and many of the smaller homes do not.

So when the air conditioning is just not cutting it, head [...]

Located just outside of the Napa Valley—in the charming town of Sonoma—Train Town is about a 40 minute drive from Saint Helena, perhaps 15 minutes from the town of Napa.

A mini-theme park if you will–in addition to several train rides, Train Town also offers a ferris wheel, a roller coaster, a Merry-Go-Round, a petting zoo and more.

Who: All ages, [...]

We love to go to Crane Park on Saturdays.

Beyond the tennis courts, bocce courts and baseball fields is the playground. Towering old oaks shade the two main areas, each geared toward different age groups.

You’ll find baby swings, big-kid swings, slides galore, climbing structures and many other options.

Who: All ages can find something to do

What: Extensive, beautiful outdoor [...]

The local theater in Saint Helena is quintessential Napa Valley.

In existence for over 100 years, it is a beautiful structure that speaks to its history…and is fancy.

Not too fancy for kids though.

In fact, the theater offers special programming catering to children and families. Upcoming movies include Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian in 3-D [...]

There’s nothing quite like the ice cream parlor.

And this one is family-owned, with a nostalgic old-fashion atmosphere.

In addition to the 20 or so flavors of ice cream, the Big Dipper also offers beverages from the soda fountain and the espresso machine, homemade treats, even hot dogs and the like.

They also sell those candies you remember from YOUR childhood. [...]

We love our old-school-style cruiser bicycles.

If you are visiting and don’t have your bikes, or if you are locals and don’t have bikes, you can still enjoy the experience of pedaling down the country lanes of Napa Valley, alongside the vineyards.

There are several bike companies throughout the valley, but I am most familiar with St Helena [...]

So, have you ever been in a nice place, yet still have felt like this?:

Taken on Lake Berryessa while out with our good friends the Elliman’s–