New Year’s Eve with kids in LA can be super fun (we promise!) and here are 14 things to do on NYE in LA with the family that proves just that
We’re quickly approaching the end of 2022 and you’ve seen the best holiday lights around LA, maybe even found some snow near LA, and skated away on the area’s best ice rinks so now it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve with events near me and Los Angeles. Thankfully, you don’t have to stay up until midnight (if you don’t want to) with these family-friendly events that put on a show, all before the clock strikes 12. From ogling millions of colored lights at the L.A. Zoo to catching a stage show at the Santa Monica Playhouse, there’s something for everyone on the last day of 2022. Here are the best family-friendly things to do in LA on New Year’s Eve.
The Best Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles & New Years Events near Me
New Year's Eve Parenting Win: Winter Fest OC celebrates the New Year not once, but twice with a special countdown, dazzling firework show, snow flurries and confetti cannons. The first celebration takes place at 6 p.m. for those that can't (or don't want to) stay up late and then again at midnight for older kids. Filled with winter attractions such as ice tubing, ice bumper cars, carnival rides and games and ice skating, the all-new North Pole Journey pop-up walk-through experience, live entertainment from popular tribute bands, seasonal food and drinks, dozens of photo opportunities and much more, this is bound to be a New Year celebration your kids won't forget.
With the park decorated to the nines for the holiday season, there’s no more magical place to celebrate New Year’s Eve thanDisneyland.Mickey and his pals will ring in the new year with a holiday-themed parade, fireworks, and more. All of the restaurants inside the park will also feature special events and NYE menus for the occasion so be sure to do some research and book a reservation ahead of time.
Midnight arrives early in Carlsbad as LEGOLAND recreates the famous "Times Square" ball drop with a Kids’ New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy rides, activities, and festivities that include a fireworks show to welcome the new year.
Knott’s Berry Farm has something for the entire family this New Year’s Eve with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, festive dance music, DJs, bands, a family-friendly comedian, party hats, noisemakers, fantastic food, and special extended hours. If you can swing it, stay for the midnight fireworks—a spectacular way to usher in 2023.
The 51st Annual All-New One-Time-Only New Year’s Eve Revue is a treat for the entire brood! The internationally acclaimed Actors’ Repertory Theatre puts on a family-friendly musical revue with prizes, sing-a-longs, dancing, and comedy. The 7 p.m. show is ideal for little ones who like to party down and still get to bed at a reasonable hour. Advanced reservations are required and can be made online.
Touted as a "G-rated family-friendly comedy show" Pull My Finger: New Year's Eve Edition! is a family-friendly show full of belly-laughing stand-up, improv, and a high level of silliness.
Date: Dec. 31; 5 p.m. Cost: $25
The Crow 2525 Michigan Ave. Santa Monica Online:jetbook.co
7. New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display & GLOW Party
Head to Marina del Rey and join in the Glow Party with fun activities like live DJs, dancing, cricuit breaker robots, face painting, bubbles, photo booths, food trucks, free giveaways, and more. The best part though for parents with young kids? There are two, 10-minute fireworks shows following a 30-second countdown. The first starts at 8:59 p.m. (timed with New York's ball drop) and for those with older kids, another countdown and fireworks display starts at 11:59 p.m. Fireworks can be seen from Burton Chace Park, Fisherman's village or other waterfront restaurants in Marina del Rey.
Good to Know: Parking is available for $8 in County lots #77 and #4, located at 13650 and 13500 Mindanao Way respectively.
Spend the day enjoying the rides and attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood then spend the night partying down at Universal’s "Eve" event which includes multiple celebration areas that will feature dancing, music, and a midnight countdown with fireworks.
Date: Dec. 31; 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Cost: $139 general admission, the "Eve" event is included with admission
9. New Year’s Eve Presented by Night Dive at the Aquarium of the Pacific
Dive into 2023 at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s New Year’s Eve Night Dive. Start the new year with the fish as you boogie to the tunes of a live band playing in the Great Hall and DJs spinning in the galleries- all leading up to the confetti countdown at midnight! Snap a pic in the photo booth, grab a drink from the cash bars or a tasty snack at Café Scuba before visiting with all your favorite animals. Plus, you never know what surprises are in store at Night Dive! Doors open at 8:00 p.m., countdown is at midnight (obviously), but the party won’t stop until 1 a.m. Dress to the nines or wear your pajamas—you do you!
Get the chance to drive on an actual Nascar track, as the Irwindale Speedway becomes Santa’s Christmas Speedway this holiday season. Drive through eight show-stopping themed areas including a record-breaking 110-foot tall tree of lights! Be sure to tune your car’s radio to the event station to hear Christmas tunes and more.
Date: Dec. 31; 5-9 p.m. Cost: $35/adult, $19/child, 2 and under free
See the zoo like you’ve never seen it before: at night and totally lit up. The entire place is filled with wildlife-inspired displays, dynamic lights and projections, immersive interactive experiences, and fabulous photo ops. Keep an eye out for some of the zoo's more nocturnal animals who might make a special appearance. The highlight of the night is definitely the spectacular 200-foot tunnel of twinkling and dancing lights. Enjoy a buffet dinner, dessert, dancing, and a live broadcast of the Times Square ball drop at 9 p.m. CA time.
Spend the last evening of 2022 on Echo Park Lake in an iconic swan boat. Take an illuminated ride after 5 p.m. when the boats are all aglow with holiday-worthy lights. Watch the sun set with a breathtaking view of city skyscrapers and palm trees. Be sure to bundle up as it can get very chilly on the water. Reservations required.
NYC has its ball drop, but LA is hot on its heels with a New Year’s Eve celebration to rival the Big Apple. Gates open at 8 p.m. for this music-filled event. Count down to the new year with an amazing light show spectacular that'll surely wow the kiddos. The best part is, if you prefer to don your jammies rather than bundle up the kids and jockey for parking, you can watch it all go down on the city’s YouTube channel from the comfort of your own living room.
14. Pretend City Noon-Year’s Eve Confetti Countdown
With sparkling streamers, noisemakers, and festive party hats, Pretend City Children’s Museum will host its Annual Noon-Year’s Confetti Countdown that even the littlest revelers adore (and you’ll love that they can still sleep through the night). The event celebrates the new year across four different time zones throughout the day with midnight in Bangladesh, Dubai, Athens, and London.
The big man in red is back in town, and considering he’s checking his list not once but twice, it might be worth you checking, ahem, this list a few times to orchestrate a very special meeting between your kiddo and Kris Kringle. That’s right: the season of wonder calls for a visit with Mr. Claus—if only to ensure that you’re off the naughty list for 2022 (if you need some help with that, consider this list of feel-good volunteer opportunities!). Whether you want a few Instagram-worthy photos or a quick check-in with the North Pole’s toy manufacturer-in-chief, here’s where to find Santa Claus this holiday season in Chicago.
Santa will be visiting Millennium Plaza in Aurora on the first two Saturdays in December. Stop by Santa at the Gazebo from 1-3pm and receive a free photo download.
Santa loves hanging out in his cozy cottage on Level 3 of the 900 North Michigan Shops, and welcomes kids to share their wish lists every day throughout the holiday season. 2022 visits with Santa will be by reservation only, 11-6pm daily, and cost $50.
Dates: Nov. 19-Dec. 24
900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 3 Mag Mile Online:shop900.com
3. Santa Claus at Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops is once again offering the Santa’s Wonderland Christmas-themed events including a free 4x6 studio-quality photo with Santa and a free digital video greeting card to share on social media plus free giveaways. Advance reservations are required for all stores.
Dates: Nov. 5-Dec. 24
Various locations around Chicagoland Online: basspro.com
Santa’s winter wonderland is landing at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, near the food court, so you can meet the man in red and holiday shop ‘til you drop. Visits with Santa are always free at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago (with photo packages available for purchase.) Reservations are recommended to help reduce wait time. Pre-book now and received a free personalized call from Santa powered by the Portable North Pole. All guests who pre-book and purchase a photo package get a free, personalized video from the North Pole after the visit. Pet nights are Nov. 21, 28, and Dec. 5 from 4-7pm.
Bonus: Join Santa at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Sun., Dec. 4, 10-11:15am for a sensory-friendly visit with Santa for all ages and abilities, without sensory triggers like lights, music or crowds.
As part of Gallagher's Winterland festivities, kids can take photos with Santa in his workshop for free. The experience is even open to pets on Sundays.
Delight the whole family with a special lunch with St. Nick himself. Everyone will love holiday music, kid-friendly treats and endless onboard entertainment that brings the magical season to life.
ZooLights returns Sat., Nov. 19, transforming Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland. This treasured Chicago holiday tradition illuminates the zoo with dazzling lights and dynamic displays. General admission for Zoolights is $5. Tickets to free admission Mondays will be released the Tuesday prior at 11am each week.
Santa is a busy, busy man this time of year, so make a reservation to meet and snap a pic with him at the iconic Macy's State Street. If you can't join in person, set off on an interactive online journey through the North Pole with Santaland At Home, beginning Nov. 25.
Kids can jump on the Enchanted Choo-Choo to explore Santa’s Merry Main Street, where they can share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and meet Santa’s friends, neighbors, street performers, and toymakers. Photo opportunities abound. Huts throughout make up a European-style market of seasonal wares, novelties treats, and unique holiday gifts. Visit Jolly Olde Post Office, where they can post a letter to Santa.
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s workshop. Santa will be located in Center Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa loves shopping at Oakbrook Center when he’s not busy at work in the North Pole. Take a moment to share your wishlist with him. Pet nights on Nov. 21, 28, and Dec. 5 from 4-7pm. Santa Cares sensory-friendly visits on Dec. 4 from 9-10am (reservations required.) Book online to receive a free phone call from Santa too.
Begin your holiday season with a drive-thru light show experience at Santa’s Village. Drive through the park and enjoy over 2 million lights synchronized to music plus dazzling displays and meet Santa’s real reindeer. At the end of the route, you’ll have the opportunity to park, take photos with Santa Claus, and dig into delicious funnel cakes and hot chocolate.
Families will feast on a lavish breakfast, visit with Santa to share some of their holiday wishes and participate in other fun activities. Adults ($56), Ages 4-12 ($28), Ages 3 & under (Free.) Bring a new unwrapped toy donation for the Walter & Connie Payton Foundation. To make a reservation, please call (312) 235-7063 or email SoldierFieldBistro@aramark.com
Southlake Mall is hosting a kids Pajama Party in the Center Court with special guests including Santa, Mrs. Claus, Buddy the Elf, and Rudolph. Kids are welcome to come in their pjs for a dance party, storytime, goodies, and more.
Chicago's Swissotel's 9th Annual Santa Suite and Santa Claus is ready to show off his swanky Chicago pad! Each year the Swissôtel Chicago Presidential Suite is transformed into Santa’s home-away-from-the-Pole for the holiday season. The suite offers sweeping views of the city, where Santa can closely monitor the weather patterns before his busy Christmas Eve and provides a cozy retreat for finalizing his naughty and nice list. Book a very exclusive private visit, or have breakfast with the jolly fellow on Dec. 10 or Dec. 11.
Cap off a day of holiday shopping with a visit with Santa at Chicago's Mag Mile shopping hub. Visits are always free, but you can save 30% on your photos by pre-ordering a package online, where you’ll also receive a coupon for $30 to spend towards Tiny Prints! Pet photos are available on November 28 and December 5 from 4-7pm.
If waiting in long (and often frigid) lines for a 30-second photo opp isn't how you want to spend your hard-earned holiday time, consider one of the few amazing Christmas experiences to come out of the pandemic: a virtual Santa visit! And if you book with Tales From the Chair, you don't just get an audience with Saint Nick. You also get 20 minutes of one-on-one time with Mrs. Claus and a few elves. What makes this Zoom opportunity so special is that they make it a goal to see all families, no matter their financial situation. This year, they're introducing a sliding scale instead of set prices with a goal to raise enough that they can fund a day of fully-free Santa visits. If you can afford to donate, tip, or pay a little more, those dollars will go directly to financing this mission.
From costume parties to pumpkin carving (and catapulting!), check out more than 20 Halloween events in NYC for family-friendly, spooky fun
Hey, boo! Explore New York City’s spooky side this October. Halloween is coming, which means that New York City is about to be filled with festive events where you and the kids (ahem, you and your little superheroes, witches, monsters, and princesses) can celebrate with gusto! And by celebrate, we of course mean with creepy stories, haunted houses, ghouls, and ghosts of all kinds. Join costume parades (or have your dog join one), make Halloween-themed crafts, learn about the traditions and animals that are associated with the holiday, carve some pumpkins, and so much more!
Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, participate in some more unconventional Halloween activities, like spooky slime making and pumpkin flinging. Whatever you decide to attend, you can be sure that the kids will get a kick out of 2022’s spooky Halloween NYC family events! Pro tip: remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint, to All Hallow’s Eve!
Halloween Festival at Bleecker Playground
The Friends of Bleecker Playground are hosting a fundraising Halloween festival, raising money to benefit the community. Join a mini-parade perfect for the little ones, that starts at Abingdon Square at 10. The playground will be decked out with entertainment for the kids, including face painting, crafting, music, and more.
Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated
Sun., Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Bleeker Playground
Bleecker St. & W 11th St.
West Village Online:bleeckerplayground.org
Halloween Extravaganza at Franz Sigel Park
Get tricks and treats at the annual Halloween Extravaganza. In addition to the usual Halloween fun—cool costumes, pet parade, and creepy crafts—this park party also has slime making, Tarot readings, and an interactive Story Walk from Emit Theatre.
Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 29, 1-5 p.m.
Franz Sigel Park
East 158th St.
Concourse Online:eventbrite.com
The Music of Halloween Spooktacular at Brooklyn Bowl Have a rocking good time with the Rock and Roll Playhouse, where the sounds of classic rock meet Halloween classics. This family-friendly concert encourages kids to dance and sing along, and is a great first introduction to classic rock.
Cost: $15, free for those 1 year old and younger
Sun., Oct. 30, 12 p.m.
61 Wythe Ave.
Williamsburg Online:brooklynbowl.com
Boo Bash at Randall’s Island Pre-party on Randall’s Island for an extra chance to show off your cool costumes. Dress up and visit the island for the annual Boo Bash, which features themed crafts, games, treats, and more.
Cost: Free
Sun., Oct. 30, 12-3 p.m.
103rd Street Footbridge
Randall’s Island Online:randallsisland.org
Halloween Harvest Festival at Socrates Sculpture Park
Heads up: This Halloween Harvest will send your pumpkin creation soaring to great heights… literally! Carve out an epic pumpkin then send it flying with the pumpkin catapult at the second annual “Flight of the Gourds.” It’s pumpkins galore, with pumpkin art workshops, a creative spin on costume creation, and face painting. Plus, bring your pooch in his best costume and join the dog costume contest—or just stand back and watch other people’s dapper doggos!
Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 30, 12-5 p.m.
32-01 Vernon Boulevard
Long Island City Online:socratessculpturepark.org
Halloween Costume Party at Westchester Square Don your favorite costumes and head over to this costume party for a fun family bash. Kids ages 2-15 are invited to participate in games, win prizes, make arts and crafts, and more. There will be vendors on site for food, drinks, and, of course, dessert and candy.
Kids Costume Party at Dazzled Art Join the Dazzled Utopia Art Studio for a pre-Halloween costume party. Kids will create art, dance, sing, chow down on pizza, and have the chance to win prizes. The party is open to kids ages 3-12 years old.
Cost: $30
Sun., Oct. 30, 3-5 p.m.
1261 Ralph Ave.
East Flatbush Online:dazzledart.com
Dumboween at the Dumbo Archway This charming Halloween mini-parade and party is, by its own admission, “sometimes spooky, always adorable.” March over to the Dumbo Archway and kick off with a children’s party, complete with a lively brass band, arts and crafts from the Creatively WILD Art Studio, a photobooth, and more. Enter costume competitions, go trick or treating among over 50 participating businesses in the area, and take spooktacular photos throughout the evening.
Cost: Free
Mon., Oct. 31, 4:30-7 p.m., march to the Archway begins at 4 p.m.
Dumbo Archway
155 Water St.
Dumbo Online:dumbo.is
Monstrous Museums, Gardens, and Centers around NYC
Halloween Costume Dog Show at Williamsbridge Oval Watch costumed pooches strut their stuff at the Pet Fashion Show at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center. Bring the family pet, or just come and watch as dogs show off their costumes, participate in obstacle courses, and pose for furry photo-ops.
Cost: Free
Fri., Oct. 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
3225 Reservoir Oval East
West Bronx Online:nycgovparks.org
Hands on History: Spooky Season at King Manor This month’s Hands on History features a spooky twist. Learn about the author Washington Irving and his famous 1820 story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Make a craft to take home inspired by the scary story: Headless Horseman paper pumpkin masks!
Monster Bash at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan CMOM has a packed October, full of creepy and fun Halloween fun and activities. Here’s just a small sample:
Oct. 22 & 23: Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun, according to MakerSpace! Create your very own monster using “junk” like socks, boxes, fabric, and other mixed media materials.
Oct. 25-28: Dress up with PlayWorks in the Monster Party Hats event, where kids can design hats and headbands, then wear them as they play and pretend.
Oct. 25-28: Make some fancy eyewear with Inside Art, at the Monster Vision Goggles workshop.
Every day has different events to explore! Plus, throughout the Monster Bash, kids can participate in scavenger hunts, listen to read-alongs of scary (but not too scary!) stories, play Halloween-themed party games, and much more.
Price: Free with admission
Tues., Oct. 18-Sun., Oct. 31
The Tisch Building
212 West 83rd St.
Upper West Side Online:cmom.org
Hallowscream at Chelsea Recreation Center This Halloween event is a scream—literally! The Chelsea Recreation Center has been spookified, turning it into a haunted house. Brave the “Fright Walk,” where scary special effects, frightening images, jump scares, spooky audio, and an eerie fog cover the path. Only bring your bravest family members for this one! Adults are urged to make sure their little ones are handling the frights fine, especially if they’re under 13 years old.
Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 22, 1:30-6 p.m.
430 West 25th St.
Chelsea Online:eventbrite.com
Living History: Cooking Spooky Treats at the NY Historical Society Go back in time with historical interpreter Cheyney McKnight and make your own treats to enjoy this Halloween. Families will work together to create an edible cookie dough “sandpit” that hides yummy surprises. No baking required! Then, dig in while you listen to family-friendly scary stories.
Cost: Free with admission
Sun., Oct. 23, 1-3 p.m.
170 Central Park West at Richard Gilder Way (77th St.)
Upper West Side Online:nyhistory.org
Haunted House at the Williamsbridge Oval Oh no! The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center has been overtaken by ghouls, witches, ghosts, and other creepy critters that go bump in the night. Visit the space for a haunted house event that’s appropriate for all ages.
Cost: Free
Fri., Oct. 28, 7-9 p.m.
3225 Reservoir Oval East
West Bronx Online:nycgovparks.org
Irish Halloween at the Irish Arts Center Learn about Irish traditions and the annual Halloween / Oíche Shamhna festival through this interactive experience held by the Irish Arts Center. The Arts Center’s new building appears to be haunted! Kids (and their caretakers) are invited to dance, sing, and scare the ghosts away. Browse the spooky location and explore Ireland’s myths, legends, language, and history. This hour-long program is free but requires a timed entry ticket.
Halloween at the Garden at Queens Botanical Garden Wear your costume to the Queens Botanical Garden for an afternoon full of Halloween fun. Walk along the Trick-or-Treat Trail, make themed arts and crafts, learn about creepy crawlies that live in your compost pile, listen to live music, and watch a magic show. Adults can enjoy harvest beers and ciders from the Beer & Wine Garden, and purchase food and refreshments for the family from local food vendors.
Cost: $7.39/adult, $3.18/child, free for those 3 years old and under
Sun., Oct. 30, 12-5 p.m.
43-50 Main St.
Flushing Online:queensbotanical.org
Fall-O-Ween at the NY Botanical Garden The New York Botanical Garden has a packed Fall events calendar, with tons of seasonal harvest- and Halloween-themed programs and special attractions:
Oct. 15 & 16: Join the Pumpkin Carving Face-off Weekend to design your own pumpkin or watch three pumpkin carving masters face off for the most intricate—and terrifying—creation.
Oct. 22 & 23: It’s the Pumpkin Parade Weekend! Wear your best costume and participate in a festiva parade in the garden. Kids can help decorate before the parade, then check out giant pumpkins, watch a pumpkin carving demonstration, and learn about how growers get their pumpkins to grow to such enormous sizes.
Oct. 22 & 29: Stay after hours for the Spooky Pumpkin Garden Nights, and explore the gardens by flashlight, meeting giant skeletons and spooky scarecrows along the way.
In addition to these events, throughout autumn the children’s garden will be decorated with cute and scary scarecrows, and pumpkins of all shapes and colors will be on display.
Cost, date, and time varies; events throughout October
2900 Southern Boulevard
The Bronx Online:nybg.org
Spooky Crafts, Readalongs, and More at Your Local Library If you’re looking for a free Halloween- or fall-themed activity for your little ones, look no further than your local library. Various branches across all the boroughs have scheduled festive events and workshops for kids (and adults) of all ages. Make spooky crafts (either at the library or through to-go kits), listen to scary stories, watch movies, make slime, and much more!
Halloween Programs at Alley Pond Alley Pond has a full weekend of spooky events planned for kids, starting with the Not-So-Spooky Spiders and Snakes—an exploration of these amazing and often misunderstood animals and arachnids, with some live guests! Other events include chances to meet more animals considered “scary,” make Halloween-themed snacks, read spooky stories, create themed artworks and crafts, and participate in a Halloween party.
Cost, date, and time varies by program
224-65 76th Ave.
Oakland Gardens Online:alleypond.org
Halloween on the Farm at the Queens County Farm Museum Celebrate Halloween on NYC’s oldest working farm. Get lost (or rather, try not to) in the Amazing Maize Maze, a three-acre labyrinth among corn stalks. Your ticket also includes access to a spooky farmhouse, Halloween hayrides, a DJ dance party, an Adopt-a-Worm composting program, and a trick-or-treating event with the farm animals, which sends you on a hunt to find nine special stations throughout the farm. Local food vendors are on hand to feed hungry tummies and fresh produce will be available to purchase at the Farmstand.
Cost: $22.16, free for those 3 years old and younger
Sun., Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
73-50 Little Neck Pkwy.
Little Neck Online:eventbrite.com
Haunted Island Race at Governors Island Celebrate in style and stay in shape at the same time at the annual Haunted Island Race. The race offers both a 5K and a 10K option, and awards will be given out to the best runners by gender (male, female, non-binary) and age brackets. The race will take you all around Governors Island, giving you a chance to take in the views as you go. After the race, you’re welcome to explore the island and enjoy Halloween goodies. Your ticket nets you a ferry ride, a t-shirt, and a post-race meal. Costumes are encouraged!
Cost: Starting at $40
Sat., Oct. 29, 5K begins at 8:30 a.m., 10K begins at 9 a.m.
Governors Island, Colonels Row Online:nycruns.com
Spooky Castle Yoga at The Skyscraper Museum What do castles and yoga have in common? Both can be spooooky! At least, they can when you join this all-ages event for families. Discuss what makes up the architecture of a castle, then use what you learned to form yoga poses that draw inspiration from spooky castles and Halloween. RSVP is required and costumes are encouraged!
Cost: Free
Sat., Oct 29, 10:30 a.m.
39 Battery Pl.
Battery Park City Online:skyscraper.org
Haunted Halloween East River Dinner Cruise The National Lighthouse Museum’s Haunted boat tour will regale you with spooky stories as you enjoy a three-course dinner. The cruise will take you from Lighthouse Point, through Hell Gate, to Execution Rocks—all while sharing tales of the haunted history of key points along the way.
Cost: $97.54/adult, $54.98/child
Fri., Oct. 28, 6:30-10:30 p.m.
National Lighthouse Museum
200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point
Staten Island Online:eventbrite.com
Halloween Kids Spooky Cruise See the city from a different perspective at this Halloween-themed and kid-oriented spooky cruise. Trick or treat on the water as you enjoy incredible views of the Manhattan skyline. The ship will be decked out in seasonal decor, have plenty of candy on board to satisfy little trick-or-treaters, and will keep the kids entertained with performances from costumed characters. Food and drink will be available to purchase—or you can upgrade to the Premium experience for a complementary food and drink package that also gets you a children’s goody bag with party favors and treats.
Cost: Starting at $45/adult and $40/child
Mon., Oct. 31, 1:30 p.m.
Departs from Pier 36
299 South St.
Lower East Side Online:eventcruisesnyc.com
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor
This amazing display features over 7,000 lit Jack o-Lanterns, arranged into sculptures from architectural marvels to dinosaurs and the Statue of Liberty. Expect bright synchronized lights, jaw-dropping displays, and an original soundtrack. And yes, they’re real: The pumpkins are designed and carved by a team of artists. This year, the Blaze features an animated “Jack” Smith Shop and glowing bees.
Tickets are selling out fast, with some nights already unavailable or limited to a small number of tickets. If you’re considering attending this event, you’ll want to secure your tix sooner rather than later! The Blaze is coming to Long Island, too—buy tickets for that here.
Cost: Starting at $44/person, free for those 2 years old and younger
Select evenings, Sep. 16-Nov. 20
525 S. Riverside Ave.
Croton-on-Hudson, NY Online:hudsonvalley.org
Legoland NY
Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party
LEGOLANDs across the nation are partying for Halloween, but unique to the New York location is that it will be debuting the world’s first wheelchair-accessible giant LEGO pumpkin! Without stairs, all guests will be able to join in on the photo opportunities. Not only that, the Monster Party will transform the Dragon Coaster into the “Disco Dragon Coaster” complete with a groovy monster soundtrack and party lights. There’s also a ghostly scavenger hunt in MINILAND where you can wander through the Haunted Nature Maze and discover candy along the LEGO Friends Nature Trail. And, of course, grab loads of sweets at trick-or-treating stations located along dedicated paths. Don’t forget your costume!
Cost: Starting at $85
Sep. 24-Oct. 30
1 LEGOLAND Blvd.
Goshen, NY Online:legoland.com
Halloween Fest at the Liberty Science Center
The Halloween Fest is back and it’s better than ever, full to the brim with both indoor and outdoor activities. Pick out your favorite pumpkin at NJ’s largest indoor pumpkin picking patch—or just take a peek inside of one with an endoscope! Beyond the patch, you’ll learn about creepy crawlies like roaches, spiders, scorpions, and millipedes, as well as traditionally “spooky” Halloween icons like bats and skeletons. Then, head outdoors to make your way through the spider maze, dig for fossils, and find fall drinks and treats (no tricks here!).
Special events for the season are available for an additional fee. catch a spooky planetarium show that highlights the Monsters of the Night Sky, like the Witch Head Nebula and the Medusa constellation. Hop into a Halloween-inspired laser show, or watch a creepy 3D movie, “Haunted House,”and get delightfully freaked out. If you visit on Oct. 30 or 31, make sure to wear your best Halloween costume, because the Center is hosting it’s wrap up party all weekend long with trick or treating, costumes, and more excitement.
Cost: $29.99/adult, $24.99/child, $26.99/senior
Throughout October during center hours
222 Jersey City Blvd.
Jersey City, NJ Online:lsc.org
The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place
A good choice for the tiniest of trick-or-treaters, Sesame Place is turned into a family-friendly Halloween haven between September 17 and November 6. Guests can trick-or-treat around the park, take in Halloween-themed shows and parades, participate in an interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and take advantage of unique photo opportunities with Sesame’s furry friends dressed up in costume on Halloween-themed floats! Kids can also meet and greet Spookley, the square pumpkin, as he makes two weekend visits from Holiday Hill Farm.
Seattle families love our sports. From the Seahawks to the Mariners to our yet-to-be-named NHL team, we can’t get enough. Next time your kids need a sports fix, consider taking them to a college sporting event. Attending is easier and less expensive; plus, with four fantastic schools that boast an exciting array of teams, it’s a win for everyone. Read on to find can’t-miss events for the weeks to come.
University of Washington
Scott Eklund/Red Box Pictures
Whether you call them the Huskies, the Dawgs, or simply U-Dub, the University of Washington is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities on the West Coast. With 23 intercollegiate athletic programs, top-notch facilities for every sport and championship teams across the spectrum, it's easy to be a fan. Fan families can take advantage of the Pups & Parents package. Each purchase grants two admissions (one parent, one child) to designated games for these sports: volleyball, soccer, women's basketball, gymnastics, baseball and softball. Join the P&P and treat your kids to a life of athletic pursuits or at least Husky fandom.
Upcoming Events
Pac-12 Swimming & Diving Championships Head down to Federal Way to cheer the Huskies to victory at the Pac-12 finals! Cal, Stanford and USC are all ranked in the national top 20 in each sport, but they're no match for the Huskies. Check out the schedule of events for Women's Swimming and Men's & Women's Diving and Men's Swimming. Event details.
Feb. 26-29 & Mar. 4-7 Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center 650 S.W. Campus Dr. Federal Way, WA 98023
UW Fan Fest & Spring Football Preview Excitement is running high under new head coach Jimmy Lake, so be among the first to check out the 2020 Husky men's football team! Fan Fest kicks off in the indoor practice facility with football fun for fans and fams, and freebies and festivities for small fry. Then the event moves outdoors for the first Husky practice of spring football. Go Dawgs!
Apr. 25, TBD Dempsey Indoor Practice Facility Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium 3800 Montlake Blvd N.E. Seattle, WA 98195
Windermere Cup & Opening Day Regatta Every year UW creates one of Seattle's finest spring traditions by celebrating the opening day of boating season with this rowing classic. The free, family-friendly event sees the University of Washington compete against top U.S. and international teams. The event also includes food and drink vendors, kid-friendly activities and free giveaways. Following the races, fans are invited to join the champions for an awards ceremony near the finish line. Be sure to arrive early to stake out your spot on the Montlake Bridge or along the Cut. Event details.
May 2, 10 a.m. Montlake Cut
Insider tip: Anywhere along the Cut provides a fantastic experience, but consider cheering for the Husky winners at the finish line, located on the northwest side of the Cut behind the UW Medical Center. The Montlake Bridge is another great (albeit packed) spot to watch the big races. It offers bird's eye views of the starting line to the east and the finish line to the west.
Good to know: Many UW spring sporting events are totally free all season, including men's and women's tennis, rowing, track, and beach volleyball!
Huskies Ticket Office 3910 Montlake Boulevard Graves Building Room 101 Seattle, Wa 98195-4070 206-543-2200 Online: gohuskies.com
Seattle Pacific University
Andy Towell/Troutstreaming
Located along the Fremont Cut, the NCAA Division II SPU Falcons play 13 different varsity sports. Last year the Falcons won four Great Northwest Athletic Conference team championships in women’s indoor track & field and outdoor track too. Plus, the Falcons men's basketball team just pulled off an eight game winning streak on the road to March Madness. Long story short, it's a great time to learn to love these teams.
Upcoming Events
National Girls & Women in Sports Day Celebration How about a two-fer? Watch the SPU women's basketball team take on the Western Washington Vikings and celebrate females in sports at the same time! Expect fun giveaways like Falcon scrunchies, a free yoga class, a climbing gym pass, and more. Psst...Promo code: NGW20 will get you $4 tickets. Event details.
Feb. 6, 5:15 p.m. Brougham Pavilion 3414 3rd Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119
Girl Scouts Night The kids will flip for Falcon Gymnastics at this event. Extra perks to Girl Scouts (who receive a free patch) but the whole family will marvel at the feats of strength and agility. So bring the fam out to support the team!
Feb. 21, 7 p.m. Brougham Pavilion 3414 3rd Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119
Falcon Regatta Looking for something exciting to do with tiny early risers? Pack up the fam and head to the Lake Washington ship canal to catch the Annual Falcon Regatta. The Falcons will have free donuts and coffee on hand shortly after sunrise. Best of all, tickets are free! Event details.
Mar. 14, 8:30 a.m. Lake Washington Ship Canal Seattle, WA 98118
Falcons Ticket Office Brougham Pavilion 3414 3rd Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119 206-281-2085 Online: spufalcons.com
Seattle University
Sarah Finney/Seattle U Athletics
With a proud history that includes NBA Hall-of-Famer Elgin Baylor, Seattle University is back in NCAA Division I athletics after 29 years. The Redhawks have recently pulled off some stunning upsets over nationally-known teams, so it's a great time to become a fan. In fact, Seattle U wants to afford all grade school children the opportunity to experience the college environment through the fun of sports. Kids sixth grade and younger can join Rudy's Kids Club for free. Membership includes free tickets to select events, exclusive invites to Rudy's Club events, even autograph opps. Sign us up!
Upcoming Events
Fan Appreciation Day The Redhawks are in the thick of things in the WAC race this year, so show your support against the Chicago State Cougars. They'll have groovy giveaways like fanny packs, deals on Chicago dogs, and discount coupons from team sponsor Pagliacci Pizza. Yum! Event details.
Mar. 5, 7 p.m. Redhawk Center 550 14th Ave. Seattle, WA 98112
Final Regular Season Men's Basketball Game Cheer the Redhawks on to victory against the UMKC Kangaroos in their final game before the WAC Championship tournament in Las Vegas. This important game takes place in the 7,000 seat ShoWare Center in Kent, so arrive early and be loud!
Mar. 7, 1 p.m. ShoWare Center 625 W James St. Kent, WA 98032
Women's Softball First Home Game Celebrate the return of spring by cheering for the Redhawks at their first home game.
Mar. 12, TBD Bannerwood Park 1790 Richards Rd. Bellevue, WA 98005
Redhawks Ticket Office O’Brien Center 901 12th Street Seattle, WA 98122 206-398-GOSU Online: goseattleu.com
Bellevue College
Rick May
Home of the Bulldogs, Bellevue College competes in 11 different men's and women's sports. This Eastside, hometown fave competes as part of the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWCA). With baseball and softball season just around the corner, now's a good time to become a fan. Check out these upcoming games for electrifying fun with the fam.
Upcoming Events
Softball Coach Lisa Francis has built this team into a force to be reckoned with, and their 42-7 overall 2019 record proves it. Catch the women as they take on the Edmonds Tritons and Everett Trojans in two, exiting games this spring.
Apr. 25 & May 2, noon & 2 p.m. Bellevue College Softball Field 3000 Landerholm Cir. S.E. Bellevue, WA 98007
Baseball Recognized as one of the top junior baseball teams in the country, the Bulldogs are fun to watch. Come out to support the team this spring!
Apr. 4 & 26, 1 & 4 p.m. Courter Baseball Field 3000 Landerholm Cir. S.E. Bellevue, WA 98007
Bellevue College 3000 Landerholm Cir. S.E. Bellevue, WA 98007 425-564-2396 Online: bellevuecollege.edu
Looking for an easy escape from the urban sprawl? Ellensburg offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s fun-filled for the entire family with shops, museums, kid-friendly restaurants, hiking, fishing camping and more!
Looking for the ultimate pumpkin patch experience? You know what we mean– the type of u-pick pumpkin fun that your kids will be talking about more than their Halloween costume. Make this years pumpkin patch outing one to remember at Huffman Farms, located minutes from downtown Ellensburg.
Huffman Farms is so much more than your average harvest farm. The family-friendly spot offers everything from 25 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds, hay rides, a petting zoo, BBQ eats, fresh baked desserts and even family movie nights where you can roast s’mores and then cuddle up under the stars for a outdoor fall flick. Oh, and did we mention there’s also a 20-foot straw bale slide?
While Huffman Farms is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm during the fall, you’ll really want to make a point to visit on October 6 when the place comes alive for their 2nd Annual U-Pick Pumpkin Festival. The day is filled with live music, free giveaways, a professional pumpkin patch family photographer, and fun contests. Got a little athlete on your hands who just needs to get out the wiggles? They can even take to the soccer field for a friendly match, toss your way around the patch with a game of frisbee golf, or see how flexible you really are on the outdoor Twister board.
6181 Wilson Creek Rd Ellensburg, Wa 98926 509-899-2002 Online: huffmanfarms.com
Bay Area soccer is a big deal. Check out the Marina Green Park any Saturday in the fall or spring and you will see hordes of peewee teams. The parks are often packed with older kids and adults on the pitch, in leagues or just playing for the love of it. When a World Cup is in action, flags fly, kids miss school and parents work, and often the city is at a standstill. Think about it and you’ll realize, there’s no better activity around which to build a fun family day out!
If your family is hankering for a great Bay Area spectator sport experience and tickets to the Giants, Sharks or 49ers are sold out or too steep, why not consider catching a San Jose Earthquakes professional soccer game?The Earthquakes are an Major League Soccer team. The MLS is a league that comprises top level teams from Canada and the US and includes many top tier players.
Most games are played at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, although for some special occasions such as the 4th of July Firework festivities, the team plays at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto.
Many families, including lots of kids dressed in soccer gear flood the grounds for pre-game festivities and once in the stadium you could feel the roar of the crowd as the kids certainly gave the earthquake stamps their all. The team’s tag line is: San Jose Earthquakes: Did You Feel That? Taking your little ones to an outdoor game is a great way for them to get out some of that pent up energy and use those outdoor voices you’re perpetually trying to quell. During the game a rumble begins and then a stampede and it really feels like a temblor as fans stamp their feet in syncopated rhythm to get the excitement going!
The Earthquakes’ schedule runs from May through October and tickets run from $20-$50, with VIP tickets that go for much more. San Jose Earthquakes games are very kid-family with tons of kiddos in the stands roaring and cheering on their team. Get into the team spirit and flaunt that teal blue and black — you can even try some fun face-painting before the game to show your family’s team pride!
There were a ton of free giveaways, Frisbees, soda, and posters, all of which will certainly keep your kids engaged. The pace of the game suits kids too. With only two 45-minute halves and a 20-minute break or so for halftime, it is a manageable outing for those little tykes with waning attention spans!
Parking is easy, although be ready to pony up around $20. The bugs are nippy and it gets chilly when the sun sets so be sure to bring a jacket and layers!
Ole Ole Ole Ole!
Upcoming Games:
Sat. Jul 30 Earthquakes v D.C. United at the Buck Shaw Stadium 7:30 pm
Sat. Aug 6 Earthquakes v Timbers at the Buck Shaw Stadium 7:30 pm
Full Schedule: sjearthquakes.com/schedule
