31 Refreshing Iced Coffee Recipes To Sip On This Summer

Kate Thorn
and
Meredith Holser
May 14, 2024
iced coffee recipes to try this summer

Iced coffee is our all-time favorite pick-me-up, especially on a hot afternoon — and, let's be real, sometimes you need caffeine and dessert simultaneously. There's something about the combination of toasty, roasty coffee and icy, creamy sweetness that sends shivers up our spines. Since being your own barista is *so* much fun, throw on an apron and try your hand at making one of these unique iced coffee recipes.

Each one of these coffee recipes make amazing summer coffee drinks for serving at brunchor just because! Let's dive into the sweetness!


Iced Bulletproof Coffee

All you have to do for this easy iced coffee is throw all of your ingredients into a blender. It's a quick and delicious coffee that will give you lasting energy all day. (via Brit + Co)

Fresh Mint Iced Coffee

Muddled mint and *lots* of ice cubes make this iced coffee perfect for even the hottest days of summer. Add a splash of pistachio milk for a creamy drink that also gives you a refreshing dose of energy! (via Brit + Co)

Topo Chico Iced Coffee

Topo Chico sparkling mineral water is ultra-refreshing on its own, but add it to iced coffee, and you've got a serious afternoonpick-me-up on your hands. You can try different flavors for this iced coffee idea, but we also think flavorless Topo works well on its own. (via Brit + Co)

Two-Ingredient Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Sometimes you want a strong, sweet iced coffee, but can't find the energy to become a master barista to make it happen. This Vietnamese iced coffee uses sweetened condensed milk to give it big flavor with minimal effort! (via Brit + Co)

Wild Child Iced Coffee

Adulthood can be stressful. Inject some fun into your day by topping your favorite iced coffee with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream and plenty of sprinkles! It never fails, we promise. (via Brit + Co)

Rosewater Cardamom Iced Coffee

Making your own flavored creamer is an easy way to give your iced coffee a boost that you're sure to like. This recipe uses cardamom and rosewater to make a unique drink every time! (via Brit + Co)

Cinnamon Ice Cube Coffee

Keep ice cubes made from coffee infused with cinnamon in your freezer, and you can jazz up a boring glass of iced java whenever the fancy strikes. The best part about this coffee hack? No more watered-down coffee! (via Brit + Co)

Simple Vanilla Coffee

Homemade vanilla simple syrup gives a fragrant hint of sweetness to your iced coffee, so you don't have to worry about trying to dissolve granulated sugar in your cold beverage! (via Brit + Co)

Red Velvet Iced Coffee

Red velvet is simply iconic. Iced coffee gets the sweetest treatment when mixed with these red velvet-inspired iced coffee flavors! (via Brit + Co)

Lemonade Iced Coffee

With this iced coffee recipe, cold brew is diluted with a splash of lemonade for a refreshing, more caffeinated take on an Arnold Palmer, and we are definitely here for it. (via Brit + Co)

Milky, Minty Coffee Popsicles

Technically, a popsicle made out of iced coffee is... still iced coffee. Although, you might be tempted to just drink this coffee that's lusciously flavored with mint, instead of putting it into the popsicle molds. (via Brit + Co)

Coconut Iced Coffee (with Mini Chocolate Glazed Doughnuts!)

Make sure your brew is super strong so it can handle the sweetness of this recipe's coconut creamer and the bonus doughnuts! This is the ultimate coffee treat when your sweet tooth beckons. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Starbucks who? This copycat recipe emulates the sheer greatness of the chain's iced coffee + cold foam combo. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Iced Coffee Recipes We Love

Chocolate Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Chocolate and coffee are arguably two of the *best* things on the planet, so when they join forces in iced coffee drinks like this one, we just cannot resist getting a little taste. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Iced White Chocolate Mocha (Starbucks Copycat)

Give us everything sweet – we'll sip it down in no time! That includes this Starbucks white mocha dupe that you can easily customize at home with caramel drizzle and whipped cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Mocha Java Chip Frappuccino

This health-ified iced coffee recipe replaces any artificial sweeteners with naturally sweet dates, vanilla extract, and cacao nibs. Its Frappuccino-esque texture makes it the most decadent sip out there. (via Munching with Mariyah)

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Pumpkin spice can hit the spot practically any time of year. Pumpkin puree and sweet spices turn your regular half-and-half into a seasonally-flavored treat! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vegan Caramel Frappuccino

Coffee + banana = real energy. This sip combines the two for a more filling iced coffee bev! (via Live Eat Learn)

Iced Ube Latte

Sick of ordering the same old iced coffee flavors every time you make yourself a cup? Do yourself a favor and try this iced ube latte instead. It's earthy and subtly sweet, yet still delivers on the caffeine content you're craving. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Everyone Will Love These Iced Coffee Recipes

Kahlua Iced Coffee

Perfect for when those afternoon coffee breaks turn into evening coffee breaks, this spiked version of iced coffee is everything you could ask for at 5 o'clock. If you're worried about having caffeine too late, just swap your usual java for decaf! (via Lick My Spoon)

Caramel Mocha Coffee Concentrate

Don't be thrown off by the sugary title of this iced coffee recipe. This treat is sweetened naturally, without any processed sugars, so it gets two thumbs up from us! (via Sunkissed Kitchen)

Toasted Coconut Shakerato

Shakerato is Italian iced coffee made by shaking coffee with ice (and, in this case, tasty toasted coconut syrup). Top your glass with some creamy coconut milk, then rim it with toasted coconut flakes for a real mid-day treat! (via Simply Whisked)

We Can't Wait To Make These Iced Coffee Recipes This Summer!

Samoa Iced Coffee

Tragically, Girl Scout cookies aren't available year-round. Take matters into your own hands with this Samoa-inspired iced coffee in the morning, and make a Girl Scout cocktail after dinner! (via The Lovely Life)

Coconut Caramel Cold Brew

Something about the toasted flavor of caramel pairs *beautifully* with coconut. Pair it with some cold brew coffee for a drink you'll want to sip on all. day. long. (via The Gourmet RD)

Cinnamon Dolce Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

This recipe takes Starbucks' Cinnamon Dolce Latte and turns it into a fully vegan bev. Making your own coffee syrup will ultimately save you so much time and money! (via Munching with Mariyah)

Wake Me Up Coffee Smoothie

Pouring iced coffee into smoothies is a *genius* idea. The strong java notes partner up with the sweetness of banana and cinnamon in this truly tasty iced coffee drink! (via Live Eat Learn)

Iced Salted Honey Lattes

Salt and honey might sound like a strange combination, but think a little harder, and you'll realize that's the flavor combination that makes spiced nuts, granola, and trail mix so irresistible. It does the same for these iced lattes, which are so tasty, you'll want to get up early every day just to get a sip. (via Sweet Phi)

Viennese Iced Coffee

Dark, strong iced coffee helps tame the sweetness of vanilla ice cream to make this dessert-y drink! It's the perfect snack for any and every warm evening. (via Li'l Vienna)

Vegan Iced Cinnamon Mocha

Once you make this cinnamon-infused chocolate sauce (in just one minute, no less!), you'll be able to transform all manners of beverages and desserts. Stir some into your morning cup of joe to give your drink a spicy kick! (via Vegetarian Gastronomy)

Extra-Thick Iced Vegan Coffee Milkshake

Think about a thicker, heartier, more fulfilling version of your go-to frappé order – that's exactly what this coffee-infused milkshake is! It's packed with healthy ingredients from oats, bananas, dates, and almond butter, so you could even gulp this down for a super sustaining breakfast! (via Two Spoons)

Overnight New Orleans-Style Iced Coffee

If you want a fancy caffeine boost in the morning, make things easy by starting with some store-bought coffee concentrate. Infuse it with cinnamon and chicory (a New Orleans classic) overnight, and you'll be ready to conquer the world in the AM. (via Hummingbird High)

Follow us on Pinterest and check out Brit + Co's Food page for more drink recipes!

This article has been updated.


I Made The Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink At Home – Here's How It Went

When I was working barista shifts at Starbucks over the winter, we'd get Medicine Ball orders every single hour. And not going to lie, I really hated them. Let me get this straight — I didn't hate the drink, but I more so disliked the fact that the customers ordering them almost always demanded their tea between a swarm of thick coughs and countless small sniffles. Yuck.

It truly felt like I was on the fence of getting sick pretty much every time someone stepped up to the register. But, I remained strong and I did what I had to do as a service worker, which in this case, was to pour the peachy-citrus tea into a pool of honey syrup, then top it with steamed lemonade. Coughs and sniffles aside, I often questioned why someone would order the Medicine Ball, based on the cost of the drink alone (up to $6, and that gets expensive when you're ordering it all the time).

Popular during sick season, the Starbucks Medicine Ball (AKA the Honey Citrus Mint Tea) may be good, but it's not good enough to cure you of that semi-flu, or whatever other pathogens might have been floating around in my café. It's also not worth putting someone else's health in jeopardy. Turns out, you can make the Medicine Ball at home — which saves money and effort (and spares others' safety) in the long run.

Scroll on to find out how simple making the Starbucks Medicine Ball really is!

@k.ard Medicine Ball for only $1.69 each! #medicineball#fluseason#coldseason#starbucksdupe#budgettok#SephoraConcealers#DrPepperTuitionContest#halloween#fall2022♬ Halloween - KenZie DarkStar

TikTok always makes recipes look effortless. So, I took this trusty tutorial into our own hands to compare how good an at-home Medicine Ball could really be against the real one from Starbucks.

Ingredients for the Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink

Starbucks

How can I make a Medicine Ball at home?

Anna Pou / PEXELS

Making a Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is pretty straightforward:
  1. Heat 1 cup of lemonade in the microwave for 45 seconds to a minute.
  2. Add 1 cup of hot water and stir in 1 tablespoon honey.
  3. Add one bag of Peach Tranquility and one bag of Jade Citrus Mint, then steep for a few minutes.
  4. Enjoy your Medicine Ball!

How I Made The Starbucks Medicine Ball At Home

Meredith Holser

First, I embarked on an ever-iconic Target run to gather my copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe ingredients. Since they were out of the exact Teavana teas I needed to replicate the TikTok recipe, I picked up two similar ones: first, the Good & Gather Organic Peach Honey Tea, and the Good & Gather Organic Mint Tea. I also picked up a jug of lemonade, and planned to use the honey I already had at home. All together, the three ingredients I needed ended up costing me about $9.50.

Step 1: Heat Lemonade

Tara Winstead / PEXELS

I measured a cup of lemonade, and just popped my Starbucks mug in the microwave for a minute.

Step 2: Add Water and Honey

Roman Odinstov / PEXELS

While the lemonade was in the microwave, I set some water on in my electric kettle. Once both liquids were heated up, I measured a cup of water and combined it in the mug with a tablespoon of honey. Yum!

Step 3: Steep Tea Bags

Anna Pou / PEXELS

Then, I put the two teabags in the mixture to steep. The tea wasn't overly hot either, and I steeped them for about 3 minutes before giving my homemade Medicine Ball recipe a lil' sip.

Is the homemade version of the Medicine Ball as good as the one from Starbucks?

Meredith Holser

To my surprise, my homemade Medicine Ball recipe was extremely delicious, and it mimicked the Starbucks one so closely. Before tasting, I gave my tea a sniff, and the smell was pretty much identical to the drink made in stores. The flavor hit the exact same mark.

Overall, I rate my homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball a 4.7/5.

The only detracting factors are the temperature of the drink – Starbucks steams their lemonade to make the drink super hot, and mine wasn't nearly as piping. Of course, this is just personal preference, and next time, I can heat the lemonade for a longer duration, or reheat the drink altogether. Another reason for the minimal point deduction is the drink wasn't as sweet as I expected it to be. Again, this is a personal preference, and you can add as little or as much sweetener you desire!

All of this goes to say, that a homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball is just as yummy as the one you can get at a Starbucks cafe. By following the steps above, you can make a copycat recipe that's going to satisfy your hankering for a citrusy, hot tea!

Looking for more at-home copycat recipes like this Medicine Ball from Starbucks? Browse our site for more DIYs!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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Ryan Reynolds Praises Taylor Swift's "Very Sweet" Gesture As His Kids' Godmother

Take our favorite celebrity BFF's, Taylor Swift and Blake Lively, and our favorite celebrity couple, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and you truly get one big happy family. Earlier this summer, Blake and Ryan showed up to the Eras Tour to support the "Fortnight" singer, and on July 25, Taylor returned the love by making a rare lengthy post to her Instagram story.

Here's everything you need to know about Taylor Swift's relationship with Blake Lively's kids as their godmother.

Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift posted a photo to her Instagram story featuring Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Shawn Levy — all of whom are involved in Deadpool & Wolverine, in theaters July 26!

"Over the past few years I have watched one of my best friends on the planet pour every bit of his heart, soul, sweat, time, energy, jokes, pain, joy, rebellion, darkness, and magic into this film," she says. "He's created the best work of his life, and this film feels like an actual joy portal, a wild escape from reality, and an abs sandwich."

After joking that Ryan, Blake, and Shawn randomly crashed her photo, Taylor continues, saying, "Shout out to Wade Wilson [the character played by Ryan Reynolds], aka my godkids' sperm donor!"

Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Fast Company

Ryan Reynolds had the funniest reaction, and told Deadline, "I'm going to need that on my gravestone, actually."

"Yeah, that is kind of it. She is the godparent to my daughters," the Deadpool actor continued. "That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that."

Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management/Noam Galai/Getty Images for Disney

In the past, Ryan Reynolds has been vocal about how much his kids (James, Inez, Betty, and Olin) love Taylor Swift, and the family's appearance at the Eras Tour even went viral!

"I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he says onThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

Read up on Blake Lively and Taylor Swift's friendship timeline for more!

Lead image via Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

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Starbucks' Red Cup Day Is Back – Here's How To Get Your Freebie

The holidays at Starbucks are here, people! Peppermint Mocha season returned on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Red Cup Day 2024 was just officially announced – here's everything you need to know about the annual event.

Scroll on for details on Starbucks Red Cup Day for 2024!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ seasonal drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

November 14, 2024 is officially Red Cup Day!

Red Cup Day typically lands on the third Thursday of November, though this year's event hits on the second Thursday. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16.

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

The Starbucks red cups for Red Cup Day 2024 are here! The design features a very candy cane-like illustration with a white lid. The reusable cup holds 16 ounces and is made from 95% recycled materials.

How can I get a red cup?

Starbucks

The Starbucks red cups are available however you order, including in-store, drive-thru, and through the Starbucks app and delivery via Uber Eats, Door Dash and GrubHub. Customers who order delivery through the Starbucks app can even have their reusable red cup delivered with a $0 delivery fee! Red Cup Day typically limits one cup per customer.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the eligible drinks (including icons from the Starbucks holiday menu)for Red Cup Day 2024:

  • Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai Tea Latte
  • Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
  • Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
  • Caramel Brulée Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Cran-Merry Orange Refresher
  • Cran-Merry Lemonade Refresher
  • Cran-Merry Drink
  • Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
  • Hot Chocolate
  • Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte
  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate
  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
  • Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte
  • Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
  • Pumpkin Spice Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • White Hot Chocolate

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

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This post has been updated.

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13 Addictive December TV Shows Everyone Will Be Watching

If your group chat is blowing up over the Bad Sisters premiere, or you're still reeling from that Outer Banks season 4 ending, never fear: these merry and bright December TV shows are here to save the day! (Don't worry though, they're not all about the holidays. Sometimes you need a break from even the best Christmas music!). Even though these programs offer wildly different things — from a gritty spy and life or death games to juicy reality dating and sitcom royalty — they're all the perfect choice for an evening in...especially if you've already watched all our Binge-Worthy November TV Shows ;).

Here are the best new December TV shows premiering in 2024.

​The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On season 3 — On Netflix December 4, 2024

Netflix

These couples are at a crossroads in their relationship: will they tie the knot and spend the rest of their lives together, or will they call it quits? It's a dilemma a lot of relationships face, and you'll have to tune in to find out how these couples handle the ultimate q.

The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is hosted by Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey.

Black Doves — On Netflix December 5, 2024

Netflix

This thriller stars Keira Knightley as Helen, a politician's wife who doubles as a spy — and feeds her organization all his deepest, darkest secrets. But when her secret lover is assassinated, Helen is forced to play a dangerous game of survival that involves everyone she holds close. This December TV show is also set against London at Christmas...you really can't go wrong!

Black Doves stars Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire, Andrew Buchan, Adeel Akhtar, Tracey Ullman, Finn Bennett, Luther Ford, Andrew Koji, Kathryn Hunter, Sam Troughton, and Ella Lily Hyland.

Southern Charm season 10 — On Bravo December 5, 2024

Michelle Watt/Bravo

The best TV shows always involve reality TV, and nobody's doing it like Southern Charm. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, these ladies are balancing their "bless your hearts" and sweet tea with plenty of drama. Although...when is dating not dramatic? Our favorite familiar faces are joined by some newcomers, bringing a whole new edge to the show we know and love.

Southern Charm Season 10 stars Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, Jarrett “JT” Thomas, Salley Carson, Ryan Albert, and Molly O’Connell.

The Sticky — On Prime Video December 6, 2024

Jan Thijs/Prime Video

Despite the fact this new series revolves around a maple syrup empire, it's actually not related to Riverdale. Sorry to disappoint! This dark comedy is inspired by the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, where a maple syrup farmer stole millions of dollars worth of syrup in order to save her livelihood. Yep, really.

The Sticky stars Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Guillaume Cyr.

Queer Eye season 9 — On Netflix December 11, 2024

Netflix

We're in need of some life advice right now, TBH, and thank goodness The Fab Five are bringing it in the new season of Queer Eye. And alongside the emotional stories and heartfelt connections they make in Vegas, we'll see plenty of fabulous style. Because duh!

Queer Eye Season 9 stars includes Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Jeremiah Brent.

No Good Deed — On Netflix December 12, 2024

Netflix

Sitcom fans rejoice! This December TV show has some of the all-time greats sharing the screen, and we can't wait to rewatch these episodes 100 times. Multiple families believe one house will solve all their problems, and are all racing to sign on the dotted line. But, naturally, the beautiful 1920s Spanish-style home isn't as beautiful as it appears.

No Good Deed stars Linda Cardellini, O-T Fagbenle, Abbi Jacobson, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, Poppy Liu, Teyonah Parris, Ray Romano, and Luke Wilson.

Ready, Set, Glow — On Hallmark+ December 12, 2024

Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Hallmark Media

If your favorite scene from Jim Carrey's The Grinch is Molly Shannon and Christine Baranski's Christmas light competition, then this reality show is for you. Hallmark star Wes Brown introduces us to four families who have the best decorations around — and are sure to make your home feel even more festive.

Ready, Set, Glow is hosted by Wes Brown.

Paris & Nicole: The Encore — On Peacock December 12, 2024

Bravo

The girls are back!! Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie reunite in an attempt to produce something the world desperately needs: an operatic performance based on their iconic "Sanasa." Say no more.

"I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock," Paris told E! News. "Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her."

Paris & Nicole: The Encore stars Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.

Virgin River season 6— On Netflix December 19, 2024

Netflix

In the face of loss and hardship, nobody comes together like the town of Virgin River. And despite the struggle, this season promises to be heartwarming and lovely too — Mel and Jack are finally getting married! Their nuptials are met with some family drama but don't worry romantics. True love is sure to win out.

Virgin River season 6 stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.

Laid — On Peacock December 19, 2024

James Dittiger/Peacock

According to the official Peacock site, this dark rom-com answers the age-old question of "Is there something wrong with me?" with “Yes. There is. The problem is definitely you.” This December TV show follows Stephanie Hsu's Ruby, who's in for a rude awakening when she realizes all of her past sexual encounters are dying. Now she has to get to the bottom of it before anyone else bites the dust.

Laid stars Stephanie Hsu, Zosia Mamet, Michael Angarano, Tommy Martinez, Andre Hyland, Olivia Holt, David Denman, Finneas O’Connell, Chloe Fineman, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, and John Early.

Kennedy Center Honors — On CBS December 22, 2024

Paul Morigi/Getty Images

The Kennedy Center Honors (a tribute ceremony that celebrates contributions to American performing art) always provide us with iconic moments — like Anna Kendrick fangirling over Beyoncé and Cynthia Erivo performing "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick. And this year promises to be no different.

The 2024 Kennedy Center Honors will honor Francis Ford Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and The Apollo.

Squid Game season 2 — On Netflix December 26, 2024

JuHan Noh/Netflix

Despite the fact we all took games very seriously in elementary school, I'm sure we can all agree no game of Red Light, Green Light comes close to the one in Squid Game. And we're in for another round of nail-biting challenges when season 2 drops December 26. As for what to expect?

"As we all saw at the end of season 1, the main plot of season 2 will be revenge," actor Lee Jung Jae told All K-Pop. "The key figure who controlled the workings of the games in season 1 was Lee Byung-Hun...it seems that the two of us will be the central figures of this next story."

Squid Game season 2 stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve — On ABC December 31, 2024

New Year’s Rockin’ Eve

If you ask me, there's no December TV show as iconic as New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It's going to be the perfect way to ring out 2024 (and welcome 2025). Although I have to admit, I don't know how they're going to top Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla's performances from last year!

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is hosted by Ryan Seacrest.

Which December TV show are you most looking forward to? Don't forget to add these 12 Cozy New Christmas Movies On Netflix, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel, & More This Year to your watchlist!

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30 Unique Holiday Gifts That Kids Will Actually Love

Holidays are a 1000 times better with kids. From baking holiday treats together to getting in the spirit with DIY holiday decorations, everything about the festive season is new and exciting as they wait for the big day to arrive. My daughter recently turned 10 and there have been so many wins (and a few duds) under the tree that I thought I'd share our favorite gifts over the years (that are great for *all* kids, not just girls). From interactive toys to educational kits to gifts that will get them away from screens and excited for the outdoors, these unique gifts will inspire creativity and spark their imaginations while being totally fun too!

Woom Bike

My daughter has grown up with these bikes, from the Balance Bike to the Explore Bike with disc brakes, 7 gears and all-terrain tires, and she LOVES them. They're super light and glide easily, even the kickstand is so smooth. Woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids at every stage. They are pricier than other bike brands, but I find that they resell very quickly at a high price point so you essentially get your money back. Choose from an variety of colors and levels, and they even have a warehouse option for gently used Wooms.

Micro Kickboard Foldable LED Scooter

This is on our holiday wish list because my friend and her son love them so much. These scooters are Swiss-designed, three-wheeled, lightweight and durable enough for well kids. They conveniently fold for easy carrying and perfect for traveling and on-the-go and when your kiddo doesn't feel like walking (but you do).

Yoto Mini

For your future podcaster, this cute, compact audio player plays stories, music, and educational tracks. Kids just pop in a card for what they want to listen too and they can use it with or without headphones. It's great for long car rides!

Ravine Cooperative Game

This game says 12+ but we've enjoyed it at 7+. This hilarious game is set in the woods and you need to survive together with firewood, shelter, spears, and forest food while keeping your wits! It's great to bring along on a camping trip!

Hey Clay Bugs

Bug lovers can make cute clay bugs with 18 different colors of clay using an interactive app that shows kid-friendly step-by-step instructions. Think spiders, caterpillars, a praying mantis, snail, ladybug, and dragonfly to spark imaginations and build fine motor skills/spatial reasoning. Clay is nontoxic, wheat and gluten-free, nut-free, latex-free, and won't stick to hands.

Habbi Habbi Wand + Bilingual Flashcards

Expose the kid in your life to new languages like Chinese and Spanish with these fun kits. My daughter has learned a few Spanish words from this game, and she still loves it. The magnetic wand reads the words as kids read along with visual cues.

Etsy Wooden Slingshot

We love a good old-timey gift with a modern edge. These handmade wooden slingshots are perfect for any kid who loves to get outside and play, no matter what the weather. Each slingshot comes with 20 colorful felt balls for gentle play.

ROBUD Kids Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher Kit

Get them outdoors and exploring year-round with this magnifying glass, net, and bug exploration kit with carry bag. It has everything kids need to immerse themselves in exciting outdoor exploration.

We Are in an ACT-ivity Book!

For kids and parents who love the ELEPHANT & PIGGIE books as much as we do, these activity books are so much fun! My daughter loved his original We Are In An Art-ivity Book, which not only teaches so much about art but also encourages kids to create their own art show. In this theatrical event, readers discover how to be a set builder, prop maker, costume designer, playwright, and star of their own show.

3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set

Get kids interested in 3D printing and creating 3D art with this pen set designed with no hot parts, completely safe for kids aged 6+.

Mini Explorer Voice Changer

Kids can transform their voice with four hilarious voice-changing modes – Alien, Ghost, Monster, and Robot.

Rainbow Joy Potion Kit

Kids are natural mad scientists and love to experiment, making this potion kit a kid pleaser every time.

Zoom, Ooze & Explore Ultimate Science Lab

Budding scientists will have fun while learning to hypothesize, measure, mix and observe through these 15+ creative science experiments. Best for ages 8 and up.

FAO Schwarz Toy DIY Ultimate Slime Kit

This is perfect for kids who love to get their hands dirty in a fun, tactile, science-y way.

Kidamento Bear Digital Camera

This toy digital camera offers features like filters and frames, face recognition, a selfie timer and burst mode, plus an HD video option.

Mindware Pattern Play Puzzle

You know a good gift when the parents want to play too. These beautifully designed puzzles are perfect for building problem solving skills and creating artful displays. Kids follow one of the 40 pattern cards to design the brightly-colored blocks into varying motifs. The blocks can also be used to create endless freeform designs - so fun!

Toy Market Cart by Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

This cart can be anything your kid's imagination desires: a lemonade stand, a birthday cart, an advice stand a la Charlie Brown? It comes with open drawers in the back and a black board to name their business.

Mindware Colored Pencil Set

For the budding artist, this beautiful case of 36 already-sharpened colored pencils is a great gift for kids who love to color and create. The mix of classic colors and fresh hues makes all the kid drawings frame-worthy. Adults will love them too!

Personalized Afternoon Tea Set

We've had so much pretend tea over the years and I can't get enough over this customized tea set, including cake stand, cupcakes, and cake slices to share with friends, family, and dolls! ADORABLE.

Swingly Doorway Storefronts

These cute doorway storefronts are perfect for pretend play and performance play. My daughter uses them for puppet theatre and I've hung one where I door used to be in our hallway closet. Choose from a camper food truck to a Boba tea house to a farmer's market for your kidpreneur. Swingly helps parents create play spaces that inspire kids to think creatively and grow through entrepreneurial play.

Brown Toy Box

I'm a big fan of this brand and the woman behind it. Founded by a mom of four who wanted to see more representation in STEAM early development, this fun activity kit lets kids learn about coding and app development in an age-appropriate and culturally representative way.

Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Counter

We've ordered scoops and scoops of faux ice cream over the years and this one is delicious!

Little Lady Classic Collection Kit

Create a mini nail salon at home. Mani/pedis are one of our favorite things to do on a rainy day. Pick up these darling 7-free polishes for your next salon-at-home day. The bow is actually a ring they can wear post pampering! Vegan and cruelty-free too.

Play Mixer Kitchen Set

Littles can play chef or mimic mom and dad with this adorable (and affordable) wooden stand mixer. Rotatable beaters, a swiveling mixer head, and on-and-off button create an experience like a real mixer. This one's a fun add to any play kitchen!

Green Toys Tugboat

Bath toys are the best toys for bath, beach, muddy puddles, even snow! This floaty toy is made from 100% recycled plastic milk containers and safe for your little captain. No BPA, phthalates, or PVC. Mother Earth will thank you!

Paint By Sticker Kids: Outer Space

We are obsessed with these Paint by Sticker books as much as the kiddos in our life. From Outer Space to Mermaids & Magic, there's a theme for every kid passion. Get in a meditative zone with your little bud and choose from 10 sticker paintings, like a Mars rover, a space shuttle, and celestial bodies like Saturn, Jupiter, and the Sun. Plus, the back of each image includes a fascinating scientific fact *and* kids score glow-in-the-dark stickers!

Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Clinic

Kids love to play animal doctor and this set with a plush dog and cat, pretend play vet medical equipment, and a tote bag is perfect for all their veterinarian dreams.

Outfoxed Cooperative Board Game

Get the whole family a gift with this cooperative whodunit game for ages 5 and up. A wily fox has stolen Mrs. Plumpert's pot pie and is high-tailing it to the foxhole! You'll work together to gather clues and eliminate possible suspects. Figure out who is the guilty fox before they escape!

Surprise Ride Make a Model Plane Activity Kit

Aviation fans can make a model airplane while learning about Amelia Earhart with this fun kit. The 40-page book features a short story, facts and jokes about Earhart and aviation, along with a biplane wood model kit, art supplies, and a disposable apron.

Create Your Bright ideas Book

This interactive book written by our pal Jess Ekstrom is perfect for creative tweens and teens who want to be inspired to make a difference in the world.

Check out our Gingerbread Decorating Class to share with kids and subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday gifting ideas. Follow us on Pinterest too for tons of holiday decor and recipe inspiration!

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