🌴 Save Big, Play Hard, and Eat Well: What’s Happening Around Town

Welcome back, Palmetto Parent!

We have a cooler but sunny week ahead! This week we have information about a fun filled indoor playground, a free family fun day at Davis Bailey Park, a free s’mores night at Bolts and Brews, and ideas for stretching your groceries to save some cash.

For those of us with furry friends, this Saturday is National Walk Your Dog Day, also known as "Let's Pretend We Exercise Regularly" Day. Dorchester County Parks and Recreation is offering FREE dog portraits from 12-2pm at the Ashley River Park dog park. Yes, you heard it right—your dog can finally have a professional photo to replace that blurry one you took when they were mid-zoomie. Your furry friend can strike a pose solo or join you for a dynamic duo photo op—because who doesn't want a picture with their four-legged superstar?

TO DO

OutSlide In

OutSlide In is an expansive indoor playground, offering a fun-filled experience for children and a relaxing environment for parents. Located in the Belk wing of the Citadel Mall, this 7,000-square-foot facility features a giant play structure with five slides, a dedicated toddler area, and a Mini City designed to spark imagination and play.

Parents can unwind in comfortable lounge areas equipped with free Wi-Fi, while enjoying offerings from the on-site café, which serves coffee, snacks, beer, and wine. Pro tip: Admission is good for the entire day, so if you want to leave and explore or eat elsewhere, you can. There’s a Chick-fil-a in the food court. 😉

Admission fees are $9.95 plus tax for children aged 0-2 years and $14.95 plus tax for children aged 3 and up; adults enter free of charge. Socks are required for all guests and are available for purchase if needed. Every Tuesday, visitors can receive $2 off admission by bringing a nonperishable food item or canned good, which OutSlide In donates to local charities.

For special occasions, OutSlide In offers three party rooms and various party packages to accommodate celebrations of all sizes. Whether you're planning a birthday party or simply seeking a day of family fun, OutSlide In provides a safe, clean, and entertaining environment for children to explore and play.

📍 Location: 2070 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston
📍 Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-7pm, and Sunday 1-6pm

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LOCAL EVENT

Free Family Fun Day At Davis-Bailey Park

This Saturday from 11am-2pm, Dorchester County Parks and Recreation is hosting a free family fun day at Davis Bailey Park! The park is located in the neighboring town of St. George, which may be a trek for some, but the event will be well worth it! The family fun day includes:

• inflatables

• archery

• face painting

• bubbles

• balloon art

• live music

• Books & Beyond (with free books)

• train rides

• and food trucks.

Davis-Bailey Park is a beautiful 10-acre recreational space designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a large playground, splash pad, and open green spaces. Families can enjoy picnic areas, walking trails, and a fitness zone, making it easy to spend quality time together while staying active. With athletic fields for sports and a community center for events, Davis-Bailey Park provides a safe, welcoming environment for families to gather and play.

RESTAURANT

Bolts & Brews Beer Garden

Bolts & Brews Beer Garden is a unique spot that combines the charm of a local hardware store with the relaxed atmosphere of a beer garden. Situated within Wood's Ace Hardware, this family-friendly venue offers a welcoming environment for both adults and children. The outdoor seating area is spacious, featuring plenty of tables and fun games suitable for all ages, making it an ideal place for families to unwind together. Whether you're looking to relax after a hardware shopping trip or seeking a new family outing spot, Bolts & Brews offers a great experience for everyone. They regularly host events like live music, trivia nights, and yoga classes. Stay up to date with all their upcoming events on their Facebook page. 

This weekend they are hosting two family friendly events. 

• A free s’mores night where you can bring your family and roast s’mores over their fire pits from 5-8pm on Saturday night (2/22)

• A bbq & brews event starting at 1pm on Sunday (2/23) featuring Twyman’s Red Oak Barbeque with board games, corn hole, and cards available for family fun

📍 Location: 713 Old Trolley Rd. Summerville
📍 Hours: Thursday 4-8pm, Friday 2-8pm, Saturday and Sunday 12-8pm

SPONSORED BY

PLAN TO EAT

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PALMETTO PIECE

Making the Most of Your Groceries

Making the Most of Your Groceries: A Family's Guide to Saving Money

With egg prices in Summerville averaging around $5.50-6 per dozen, it's no wonder families are scrambling to find ways to stretch their grocery budgets. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your groceries without cracking under pressure (all puns intended).

1. Plan Your Meals Like a Pro

Before you hit the store, take inventory of your pantry and fridge. Planning meals around what you already have not only saves money but also prevents food waste. Plus, it gives you a chance to get creative with those forgotten cans of beans and mystery freezer bags.

2. Embrace the Frozen Frontier

Frozen fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than fresh and can be cooked straight from the freezer, saving you time and money. Stock up on frozen peas, corn, and berries to keep your meals nutritious and your wallet happy.

3. Buy in Bulk (But Don't Go Overboard)

Purchasing staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk can lead to significant savings. However, avoid buying perishable items in large quantities unless you have a plan to use them before they spoil. Remember, a 10-pound bag of avocados might not be the best investment.

4. Get Friendly with Generic Brands

Store-brand products are often just as tasty as their name-brand counterparts and come with a friendlier price tag. Give them a try—you might find your family's new favorite cereal lurking in the generic aisle.

5. Cook Once, Eat Twice (or Thrice)

Batch cooking and meal prepping can save both time and money. Prepare large quantities of family favorites like chili or lasagna, and freeze portions for later. This way, you'll have ready-made meals on hand, reducing the temptation for costly takeout.

6. Shop with a List (and Stick to It)

Impulse purchases can quickly inflate your grocery bill. Before shopping, create a list based on your meal plan and commit to it. This disciplined approach helps you avoid unnecessary items and keeps your budget on track.

7. Time Your Shopping Trips

Many stores discount items nearing their sell-by date. Shopping during these times can score you great deals on perfectly good products. Just be sure to use or freeze them promptly to avoid waste.

8. Get Creative with Leftovers

Transform last night's dinner into today's lunch. Leftover roasted chicken can become a hearty soup or a tasty sandwich filling. Reducing food waste is a delicious way to save money.

By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can navigate the grocery aisles with confidence and keep your family's meals both enjoyable and budget-friendly. Happy shopping!

Love,

The Berks 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 

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