Frozen Movie Night: Embracing the Snowstorm Magic * River City Belle

When Virginia was hit with its first big snowstorm this season, I had a decision to make: give in to my snow-and-ice-induced anxiety (yes, we’ll talk about the 2018 broken hip later) or lean into the winter magic. Spoiler alert: I chose magic. Instead of braving the chaotic grocery store aisles like most of the state, I headed to Walmart for a much more on-brand haul—Elsa-themed everything for a cozy Frozen movie night with my daughter.

The Prep: Walmart to the Rescue

Walmart came through big time with the cutest character finds. I snagged a dreamy Elsa nightgown and a fluffy faux fur-lined Elsa hoodie that could double as a costume and a winter staple. Let’s be real—nothing says “movie night success” like a wardrobe that’s as magical as the movie itself. If you’re a parent on a budget, don’t sleep on Walmart’s character merch.

The Menu: Snowflake Pizzas and Snow-Themed Jello Cups

Keeping the menu simple and fun was key. We went with two easy yet thematic items:

Snowflake Pizzas – Using store-bought pizza dough, we cut out snowflake shapes (a cookie cutter works wonders!) and topped them with marinara, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for that snowy effect.
Snow-Themed Jello Cups – These were a huge hit, both visually and taste-wise. Here’s how you can make them:

Snow-Themed Jello Cups Recipe

Ingredients:

1 box blue raspberry Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
Whipped cream (for topping)
Edible glitter or snowflake sprinkles (optional, but so fun!)
Clear plastic cups

Instructions:

In a medium mixing bowl, dissolve the Jello powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
Add 1 cup of cold water and mix well.
Pour the Jello mixture into clear plastic cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Then add a handful of mini-marshmallows to each cup.
Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
Once the Jello is firm, top each cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream.

The Experience: A Night to Remember

The movie night was everything I hoped for and more. My daughter belted out “Let It Go” with full Grammy energy, devoured the themed snacks, and twirled in her Elsa nightgown like she was walking the Arendelle runway. Post-movie, we bundled up for some snow play—her first of the season—making it a day she’ll always remember (and a day I’ll recover from with hot cocoa and a blanket).

Virginia snowstorms may be my nemesis, but this one? Totally worth it. If you’re looking for a way to turn a snow day into a magical memory, this Frozen-themed night is a great place to start.