Bright lights, big city indeed! Treat your family to a night at one of New York City’s best holiday lights displays
The beloved New York City holiday season is here! That means lots of festive light shows, Christmas displays, and decorations galore! Walk or drive through spectacular light sculptures, with miles of displays and millions of lights to marvel at. Whether you plan to travel to the light shows outside of the city, or stick to one of NYC’s classics—like Macy’s famous department store windows, botanical gardens and zoos, or, of course, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn—there’s something for everyone on this list of holiday lights in NYC in 2023.
This popular animal-themed light and lantern display returns to the zoo starting Nov. 17. See 360 lanterns representing almost 90 animal and plant species from around the globe. This year, 70 new lanterns representing 30 new animal species will make their debut at the zoo. Also new this year is an enhanced light show for dazzling photo-ops, a holiday tree show that features synchronized musical lights, and a walk through an animal-themed Light Tunnel for more light shows.
But the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is more than a display: activities and entertainment include ice-carving demonstrations, stilt-walkers, puppet shows, a holiday train. and even treats like s’mores.
This walk-through light experience debuted in 2020, and it’s back and bigger this season. Glow is billed as “an outdoor color and light experience," and has expanded its space to encompass even more of the NY Botanical Garden's grounds. Expect washes of brilliant color, thousands of dazzling LEDs, illuminated plant stories, ice-carving demonstrations, and whimsical, picture-perfect installations that reflect the surrounding gardens and collections. Make it a double feature and check out the popular New York Botanic Garden Holiday Train Show while you’re there. (The garden offers a combo ticket.) Or stop by the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up for a snack and some hot cocoa.
This after-dark, illuminated spectacular lightscape celebrates the beauty of nature in winter. Follow a festive one-mile trail winding through the garden’s 52-acre landscape, animated by dazzling light, color, and sound. Over a million lights and more than 18 distinct works of light art will be on view, among them the Cathedral of Light tunnel and a Fire Garden on Lily Pool Terrace.
Dates: Nov. 17-Jan. 1
150 Eastern Pkwy. Prospect Heights, Brooklyn Online:bbg.org
The LuminoCity Festival, a spectacular display of larger-than-life figures lit from within is back, touching down in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, NY for the 2023 holiday season. "Pure Magic" is the theme of the event, which features exhibitions of spectacular light art display designed to spark joy and wonder. This year, the festival has partnered with Nassau County to bring displays that are bigger and even more awe-inspiring, spanning over 17 acres. “Lumio,” the LuminoCity Festival mascot serves as your guide through the fantastical landscape, which features a wildlife safari, dinosaur adventure, an Alice in Wonderland-inspired exhibit, plenty of wintery and holiday-themed light sculptures, and much more.
Lumagica Light Show at Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard
Celebrate a good harvest with a gorgeous light show at the Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard. Lumagica is a spectacular display of over 750,000 lights forming whimsical creatures and themed light sculptures. This year's show is themed around an Enchanted Forest and will take you through six spaces, including magical trees and treats and sweets. Look for the 20-foot reindeer, a flying parrot, light tunnels, dancing light displays, and more.
A Very Furry Christmas Celebration at Sesame Place
Celebrate the Sesame way with A Very Furry Christmas Celebration at Sesame Place. At this festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends, the park is transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations all around. The park’s 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show features a 30-foot, fully-illuminated tree that projects festive animated images to the sound of a festive holiday soundtrack—dancing encouraged! You can also take a photo with Santa, visit the Christmas Family Fun Zone, watch an interactive Christmas show featuring your favorite Sesame Street characters, and more.
You don’t even need to get out of your car for this one! Magic of Lights is a drive-through exhibit with over a mile of light displays featuring beloved characters and holiday scenes at Jones Beach State Park. Highlights include a huge sparkling Barbie, a Bigfoot Monster Truck, and life-sized light-up dinosaurs all decked out to celebrate Prehistoric Christmas.
Insider tip: Jones Beach not convenient? You can also catch the Magic of Lights in New Jersey at the PNC Bank Arts Center.
Dates: Nov. 17-Dec. 30
Jones Beach State Park 150 Bay Parkway Jones Beach, NY Online:magicoflights.com
PNC Bank Arts Center 116 Garden State Pkwy Holmdel, NJ Online:magicoflights.com
Smith Point Light Show
The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County have one spectacular light show for you, located at the Smith Point County Park campground! Drive through one and a half miles of lights and light sculptures, featuring over 100 holiday displays (including five new ones), designed by the Girl Scouts themselves. This year, refreshments will be available to purchase at the show. Proceeds benefit programs for girls and families across Suffolk County, so you can enjoy the show and give back to the community all in one. Plus, Girl Scouts get a discount on tickets, and two badges!
If you prefer to leave the car, a new walking section has been added this year. Stop by the Enchanted Forest Walk-thru at Southaven County Park to take a walk through a magical world of glowing trees and animals, hot cocoa, and a photo-op with Santa in a heated tent.
Peace, Love & Lights at Bethel Center for the Arts
Relive the magic of Woodstock with Peace, Love & Lights, a beautiful drive-through light show located on the grounds of the famous festival. Drive through over a mile of light displays, including a 120-foot "Twinkle Tunnel," the fun '70s-themed Groovy Way, an Enchanted Forest, Santa's Workshop, and more. For additional fees, you can have a buffet-style dinner with Santa (plus snag a selfie!), watch ice carving demonstrations, toast s'mores, visit the Woodstock museum, and build some gingerbread houses with adult refreshments for the over 21 members of the family.
It’s a New York Christmas tradition to head to the big department stores to not only shop, but to check out the festive displays, which draw crowds all season long.
The holiday windows at Macy's feature a little blue reindeer named Tiptoe, who needs a little help learning to fly. Follow the journey of discovery and triumph as this very special reindeer takes to the sky to help Santa Claus bring joy to millions of children. SantaLand also returns to Macy's Herald Square on November 24, so once you're done admiring the windows outside, step inside to be transported to a world of holiday cheer and perfect presents for your loved ones.
Dates: Nov. 16-Jan. 1
151 W 34th St. Herald Square, Manhattan Online:macys.com
Bloomingdale's
This year, the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship holiday windows promise to be the Best Holiday Ever, as the year's theme is a pure celebration of the spirit of the holiday, gift giving, and memory making. The windows will be bringing plenty of magical holiday elements to life, including giant wrapping paper, scissors, and champagne glasses, a toy workshop, and an animated 3D camera.
Dates: Starting Nov. 16
1000 Third Ave. at 59th St. Upper East Side, Manhattan Online:bloomingdales.com
Hudson Yards brings back the “Shine Bright” display for the season. The holiday décor includes over two million twinkling lights, or 115 miles of string lights! The whole complex shimmers inside and out, with The Vessel, Edge, The Shops, and The Public Square and Gardens adorned in lights. In the midst of it all is a 32-foot hot air balloon suspended inside The Shops at Hudson Yards. Plus: Every Day at 5 p.m., visitors can enjoy a light show synchronized to holiday music.
Saks puts on a huge light show every 10 minutes. Using LED lights and 3D projectors, a two-minute show plays out across the building’s 10-story facade. The music accompanying the light show is a medley saluting different holiday traditions, including José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad,” the theme from holiday film favorite Love Actually, Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” and more.
The public lighting of the 82-foot tall, 14-ton Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree from Queensbury, NY takes place on November 30 this year. You can catch the lighting on NBC from home, or visit the tree during its stay in NYC from 6 a.m. to midnight (though it'll be lit up for 24 hours on Christmas Day and 6 a.m.-9 p.m. on New Year's Eve).
This southern Brooklyn neighborhood goes all out with what at this point, are world-famous Christmas displays. You can visit on your own and stroll the blocks from (roughly) 83rd to 86th Street, or sign up for a tour from A Slice of Brooklyn. The company is now in its 13th year of guiding people through the lights, with buses leaving from Union Square in Manhattan. Word to the wise: If at all possible, go on a weeknight to avoid huge crowds.
81st through 86th Streets & 11th through 13th Avenues (approximately) Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
Create your own light show with Luminaries, the annual interactive light show at Brookfield Place. Designed and created in collaboration with the LAB at Rockwell Group, the display features colorful lanterns suspended in the enclosed Winter Garden public courtyard. View a special light show at the top of every hour, set to the holiday songs “Winter Wonderland” by Michael Bublé, “Silver Bells” by Tony Bennett, “Carol of the Bells” by The Bird and The Bee, and “Let It Snow” by Pentatonix. Or, make your own light show by making a holiday "wish"—donate $1 or more to light up the canopy in a motion-controlled show, or use the "Maestro!" feature to conduct the lights in a pattern that's unique to you. Donations this year will be benefiting behavioral health services for youth and adults in NYC and on Long Island who are struggling with substance and alcohol abuse.
This awesome Queens house is at it again. Put together by retired firefighter Kevin Lynch and his family, the light display is amazing to behold in person. Lynch once claimed that his goal is to be seen from the moon—he might not be quite there yet, but it certainly comes close.
The Lunar New Year begins Sunday January 22 and kicks off 15 days of colorful celebrations perfect for family fun
Just when you thought all the New Year’s festivities were over, we’ve got the scoop on New Year, part two—the Chinese New Year, that is. The holiday begins Sunday January 22 and kicks off 15 days of colorful celebrations perfect for family fun. Kids will love the vibrant parades, fireworks and entertainment, while parents will be all over the delicious food and cultural traditions (tiring out the young ones is an added bonus)! This year is the Year of the Rabbit, a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity in Chinese culture. Check out all the Lunar New Year Los Angeles activities below.
Jan. 8: The Japanese American National Museum celebrates the Year of the Rabbit with free cultural performances and crafts and activities for all ages at the Oshugatsu Family Festival on Jan. 8 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Activities will include a traditional mochitsuki (Japanese rice pounding ritual) performance by Kodama Taiko, candy sculpture demonstrations by Shan Ichiyanagi, Koto and calligraphy performances, author-led interactive storytimes, Year of the Rabbit inspired crafts and origami, souvenir photos, and scavenger hunts. Event details.
2. Lunar New Year at the LA County Library
Jan. 10-28:The LA County Library is hosting events throughout January to commemorate Lunar New Year, and you’re invited! At Hacienda Heights Library, you can learn about the importance of paper lanterns for the New Year and make your own lantern. At Lancaster Library, you can create Rabbit corner bookmarks that will help keep your place in one of our books. You can also learn about New Year’s celebrations throughout the world at Quartz Hill Library. And at Rowland Heights Library, Paul Stein, violinist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic for 36 years, will bring exciting and beautiful music for children to celebrate the New Year. Event details.
3. Lunar New Year at the Citadel Outlets
Jan. 13-Feb. 13: To celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Rabbit, Citadel Outlets will host their annual Lunar New Year celebration where the whole place will be decked out in celebratory décor with festive red and gold lanterns hanging everywhere. On Jan. 21 & Jan. 22, watch exciting lion dances traditionally used to bring good luck and fortune, taking place throughout the center and in Center Court. Remember to drop by Customer Service to pick up your free red envelope from Jan. 13th to Feb. 13th. Event details.
4. 2023 Asian American Expo – Year of the Rabbit
Jan. 14 & Jan. 15: The Asian American Expo was founded in 1982 as a means of gathering the community and recreating the Lunar New Year celebrations found across Asia. Since then, it has become the largest Lunar New Year celebration in America and has expanded its reach and scale to include 7 large exposition halls, over 1,300 vendors, nine non-stop performance stages, and 120 diverse cuisine vendors. This year’s festivities will also feature the fan favorite anime convention—ANIME Impulse, K-PLAY—the first ever fan hosted K-Pop festival, and an out-of-this-world Sneaker Expo. Event details.
5. Lunar New Year Night Market
Jan. 20: Stop by The Crème Shop's Lunar New Year Night Market at Casita Hollywood on Jan. 20 from 6 p.m.-12 a.m. for a Hello Kitty Meet and Greet, shop the limited edition Lunar New Year Hello Kitty and Friend K-Beauty Collection; check out unique food, drink and dessert vendors; and play traditional Korean games and more. Admission is $5 per person. Event details.
6. Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure
Jan. 20-Feb. 15: Disney California Adventure Park ushers in a joyous tribute to Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures with a Lunar New Year celebration that welcomes the Year of the Rabbit. This multicultural extravaganza will include highlights like Mulan’s New Year Procession, Hurry Home – a Lunar New Year Celebration, live holiday entertainment at the Paradise Garden Bandstand, a Sip and Savor Pass for Lunar New Year marketplaces, special appearances by popular Disney characters dressed in colorful attire, innovative menus with Asian cuisine, commemorative merchandise, kid-friendly crafts and activities, and festive décor. Event details.
7. Monterey Park Lunar New Year Festival
Jan. 21-Jan. 22: Visit downtown Monterey Park during their Lunar New Year Festival on Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. This free event will feature vendors offering unique gifts and specialty items, fabulous food booths, amusement rides, and live entertainment like traditional New Year lion and dragon dancers. All ages are welcome! Event details.
8. Rancho Cucamonga Lunar New Year Festival
Jan. 21 - Jan. 22: If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday, check out the Rancho Cucamonga Lunar New Year Festival at the RC Sports Center on Jan. 21 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Jan. 22 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. This exciting two-day event will feature red lanterns, lion and dragon performances, Taiko drummers, Shaolin Kung Fu, unique food vendors, an artisan marketplace, and a children’s fun zone area. Admission and parking are free. Event details.
9. Port of Los Angeles Lunar New Year Festival
Jan. 21: The 9th Annual Port of Los Angeles Lunar New Year Festival returns to San Pedro on Jan. 21 from 3 p.m.-7 p.m. This thrilling cultural festival will feature entertainment, lion dancers, crafts, delicious food, and a festive finale.Event details.
10. Lunar New Year Festival at SteelCraft Garden Grove
Jan. 21: On a mission for everyone in SoCal to experience the various cultures that celebrate Lunar New Year, SteelCraft Garden Grove is hosting their Lunar New Year Festival on Jan. 21 from noon-10 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature lion dancers, drummers, magicians, singers, a car show, a pop-up market, and more! Event details.
Jan. 22: Celebrating over 100 years of tradition, LA’s Chinese Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the 123rdGolden Dragon Parade. On Jan. 22 from 1 p.m.-3 p.m., thousands of people will line the parade route to watch this colorful celebration make its way along N. Broadway in Chinatown. Event details.
12. Lunar New Year at PAM
Jan. 22: The annual Lunar New Year festival is back! Join us in celebrating the year of the rabbit with a day of exciting performances and activities for the whole family. Enjoy a traditional lion dance, storytelling, calligraphy and crafts, food trucks, free admission to the museum, and a final chance to view the special exhibition, After Modernism: Through the Lens of Wayne Thom. Event details.
13. Lunar New Year at Santa Monica Place
Jan. 28: Santa Monica Place honors the Lunar New Year with a free celebration on Jan. 28 from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. featuring red and gold lantern décor, lion dance performances, balloon and dough artists, cherry blossom wishing trees, and red envelopes with special deals from participating stores. Event details.
14. Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival
Jan. 29: Head to Alhambra for the 29th Annual Lunar New Year Festival on Jan. 29 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. The event will include amazing cultural performances like lion dancing, live candy sculpting, and Chinese character demonstrations. There will also be tons of great food and family-friendly activities to enjoy. Event details.
15. Lunar New Year 2023 at The Original Farmer’s Market
Feb. 4: Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with spectacular lion dances, arts and crafts, balloon twisting and red envelope giveaways. Event takes place on the Plaza from 2-4pm. Event details.
16. Chinese New Year Festival at The Huntington
Feb. 4-5: Celebrate the lunar new year and welcome the Year of the Rabbit during The Huntington’s Chinese New Year Festival. Families can enjoy lion dancers, a mask-changing artist, martial arts demonstrations, music, art and craft demonstrations, and more. The festivities will take place in and around the Chinese Garden and other performance spaces. No tickets will be sold onsite at the door. Advance online tickets must be purchased or reserved for all visitors and Members. Capacity is limited. Event details.
17. Lunar New Year at Pretend City Children’s Museum
Feb. 5-6: The Lunar New Year, also referred to as the Spring Festival, has long been celebrated for centuries. Join us as we celebrate and honor this special day with bright colors, music, art, and stories. Event details.
18. LA Chinatown Firecracker 5K/10K/Kiddie/ PAWer Dog Run/Walk & Bike Ride
Feb. 18 - Feb. 19: Lace up your sneakers for a wild race through Chinatown in honor of the Lunar New Year. The opening ceremony will feature lion dancers and the lighting of 100,000 firerackers. The PAWer Dog Walk and Bike events take place on Feb. 18, while the 5K, 10K, and Kiddie events take place on Feb. 19. The Firecracker Festival will be held in conjunction with all events on both days and will feature wonderful booths and vendors, as well as a Chalk Art Festival and Boba Garden. Event details.
We searched every borough to bring you the complete list of family-friendly events and exhibits happening this month, and they have one key thing in common: they’re all free!
November might mean cooler temps and fewer outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop. In this list, you’ll find dozens of free and low-cost events in November 2022 for families and kids throughout the five boroughs of NYC.
Join NYC as it transitions from fall into winter with beloved seasonal events and fun one-off activities: Visit the yearly winter markets, most of which are returning in November, see the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, celebrate Thanksgiving by giving to the community, and much more. Plus, check out fun and free events for kids and families in November that will educate, engage, and entertain everyone in the fam. And as always, discover all the museums in New York City that offer free admission to visitors, whether it’s all the time or on special days.
Drag Story Hour for Neurodiverse Kids at Bronx Library Center Nov. 5: Drag artists read to kids in an extra-special readalong designed specifically for kids with autism and other disabilities. The event aims to introduce kids to the idea of gender fluidity, and generally put on a fun and bright performance they’re sure to enjoy. Event details.
Bronx Night Market at Fordham Plaza Nov. 26: Good food and a friendly atmosphere make an evening at the Bronx Night Market a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase noms from local food vendors, or check out the kid zone, educational booths on food and nutrition, and a Instagram Wall-O-Fame. Event details.
Free Soccer Sessions at Williamsbridge Oval Throughout Nov.: Head to the game room at the WBO for free soccer sessions for kids. The sessions are beginner-friendly and teach everything from footwork, passing, and basic drills to teamwork and a positive attitude. Event details.
Brooklyn
Bulb Planting on West Street Nov. 5: Help beautify the new Greenway at West Street and Greenpoint Avenue in this volunteer event. Plant bulbs next to the new trees and bring even more green to the street. All tools and gloves will be provided—just bring yourself, some water, and layers in case of a chill. Event details.
FAD Market Fall Pop-up at Empire Stores in DUMBO Nov 5 and 6: Over 30 artists and small businesses make the FAD Market a great place to browse for unique gifts—after all, it’s almost time for the holidays! While you’re there, you can explore the parks under the bridge, go for a spin in Jane’s Carousel, or stick around in Empire Stores for lunch at Time Out Market’s 20+ food vendors. Event details.
Thursgiving Holiday Giving Event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Nov. 17: Give back to the community by bringing coats and clothes, and wrapped, unopened gifts for kids this holiday season. The donation event is a whole party, complete with a DJ, snacks, and raffles. The more gifts you bring, the more the community gets, but there are also prizes given out for donations, including a private tour of the Yard for families, groups, or businesses that donate 25 items. Event details.
Weekend Nature Exploration at Prospect Park Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: The Audubon Center is leading kids on weekend adventures through the wild side of Prospect Park. Every weekend in November, stop by 10-12 to borrow a discovery pack—a backpack filled with tools like binoculars and nature activity ideas, 11-12 for live animal encounters, and 12-1 for a volunteer cleanup session. Event details.
BAM Kids 2022 Throughout Nov.: Foster a love for movies, music, and the arts at the annual BAM Kids festival. Join the Brooklyn Academy of Music for kids concerts and animations. Featured this year are the music and performance of Fyütch, and the whimsical animated movies “Joyful Adventures” and “Follow Your Dreams.” While the BAM kids festival isn’t completely free, most tickets are either pay as you wish or very affordable. Event details.
Manhattan
Jazz at One at Trinity Church Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Catch the final three jazz performances of the season at Trinity this month. Featuring performers The Coleman Hughes Sextet, Samara Joy, Theo Walentiny Trio, and Edmar Castañeda Quartet. Visit the space in person at 1 p.m., or watch for free online on the website. Event details.
Image from 2021 Mexico Week courtesy of Tishman Speyer and Rockefeller Center.
Mexico Week: Día De Muertos at Rockefeller Center Leaving Nov. 2: Rockefeller comes alive with the colors and artwork of Mexican culture during Mexico Week for this year’s Day of the Dead. The event, which is leaving on November 2, will feature sculptures by Cesar Menchaca, including a huge jaguar and Quetzalcoatl, as well as some very well-dressed (and familiar!) skeletons. For more Day of the Dead fun, check out our list of Día De Muertos events in NYC this year. Event details.
Concert at One: ChamberQUEER at Trinity Church Nov. 2: Part of their “Performances at One” series, this extra-special performance features ChamberQUEER. The artists will highlight queer figures from the history of classical music. As with their other performances, this one can be watched in person or online. Event details.
Image courtesy of Chris Lee and Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall Family Day: String Fling
Nov. 5: Kids ages 3-10 are invited to get up close and personal with string instruments. Billed as a “musical adventure,” this hands-on event lets participants create a small performance, relax to peaceful music, jam along with an Afro-Brazilian capoeira band, learn about West African stringed instruments, and more. Event details.
The Rink at Rockefeller
Nov. 5: The rink at Rockefeller is reopening on November 5, officially ringing in the winter season. While a spin on the rink isn’t free (tickets start at $11), watching the skaters on the ice is a cozy winter activity for the family. Explore the area—make sure to stop by the family-favorite Nintendo Store—or get a hot chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat and sit by the rink and people-watch. Event details.
Wellness in Harlem Nov. 5: Sample free food at this party, held at La Placita (at 116th and Park). The event will feature music, giveaways, drinks, and free food from beloved restaurants and brands, including vegan donuts from Planet Back, a Caribbean version of Caesar Salad from YAYB, and much more. Event details.
Breakaway Hoops Trial Class in Harlem Nov. 5: Breakaway Hoops is offering a free trial class for kids ages 8-12. Get a sneak peek at what you can expect from the program, and have some fun with drills and fundamental skill development. All participants must bring their own basketball. Event details.
Seaport Kids: Pumpkin Decorating and Pumpkin Arch Nov. 5 and 6: Drop in and decorate some pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Led by Private Picassos, this free crafty workshop will have foam pumpkins, markers, and plenty of pom-poms for kids to get creative with their pumpkin creations. While you’re there, check out the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17, which is leaving on November 7, for a seasonal photo-op. Event details.
Sensory-friendly Mornings and Evenings at the Intrepid Nov. 5 and Nov. 18: The Intrepid is opening its doors early for young kids on November 5, and closing them late for teens and adults on November 18. These special openings are designed specifically with people with autism in mind, and feature sensory-friendly activities led by experts. This month, the children’s program will introduce them to airplane design, while the teen and adult program will focus on the museums’ exhibit, “Women Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Era.” Event details.
Garden Volunteer Session at Jefferson Garden and Mad Fun Farm Nov. 5 and 19: Join other volunteers from Concrete Safaris in making the gardens and parks around the city even more beautiful. Activities vary, but some things you may find yourself partaking in include weeding, planting flowers, fruits, herbs, or veggies, shoveling topsoil, spreading mulch, picking up trash, and more. Event details.
Closing Day at Hester Street Fair Nov. 6: Hester Street Fair is leaving until next year, and they’re going out in style: with a shopping party! The event will have a live DJ, and will be your last chance to check out local vendors, delicious food, and more fair fun. Event details.
Silent Clowns Film Series: Charlie Chaplin at NYPL for the Performing Arts Nov. 12: The New York Public Library pays tribute to the great star, Charlie Chaplin. Catch a screening of Chaplin’s movies from 1915, with a live piano accompaniment by Ben Model from MoMA and an intro and Q&A by film historians Model and Steve Massa. This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so show up early if you want to sit. Event details.
ConEd Family Day at the Morris-Jumel Mansion Nov. 12: Visit Manhattan’s oldest house-turned-museum for their monthly family day. This month, visitors will make their own colorful suncatcher ornaments. Note that masks are still required for attendees ages 2 and over. Event details.
Adventures from The Shed at 14th Street Y Nov. 12 and 19: Kids 2-5 years old are invited to Liondown’s Birthday—but first, they’ll need to help Mary-Jo and her friends come up with a present for him in time for the party. This puppet adventures feature singing, dancing, and storytelling that’ll have kids singing along and participating in the experience. Event details.
Poster Kids: Junior Fashionistas at the Poster House Nov. 13: The Poster Kids is taking on Air-India’s Maharaja mascot, and this time the focus is his wonderful fashion sense. Kids ages 5-11 are invited to learn about the Maharaja’s style, and make their own art that they can wear using recycled textiles. Event details.
Architecture for Animals at The Skyscraper Museum Nov. 19: The city might be home to humans, but it’s also home for many animals. In this family program from The Skyscraper Museum, participants will learn about architecture in the animal world, like beehives, dens, and bird nests. Then, kids will design an apartment with one animal’s needs in mind. This program is recommended for ages 4-8 and RSVP is required. Event details.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24: Whether you plan on attending or you prefer to watch it from the comfort of your own home, no list of free events in NYC in November would be complete without the world-renown Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Joining the lineup for the first time this year will be the Baby Shark family (don’t get the song stuck in your head!), Bluey the dog, and Geoffrey the Giraffe, in celebration of the return of Toys”R”Us in Macy’s stores. Plus, walk by the area in the days leading up to the parade to see the floats being inflated. Event details.
Eldridge Arts & Learning: Stained Glass at the Museum At Eldridge Street Nov. 27: Learn about the beautiful stained glass windows at the museum, as well as the history and purpose of stained glass windows. Then, make your own design for a window by creating a collage. This event is free for holders of a Cool Culture Pass or a SNAP benefits card. Event details.
Tree Lighting at the Rockefeller Center Nov. 30: The spectacular Christmas Tree is making a comeback to Rockefeller Center Plaza. Standing at close to 100 feet tall and topped by a nine-foot Swarovski Star, the lighting of the tree is a huge event every year. Visit to watch over 50,000 lights light up in a spectacular display. Event details.
Canstruction NY at Brookfield Place Nov. tbd: The annual Canstruction exhibit is coming back to Brookfield Place this year. The event features spectacular structures made from cans, as well as a chance for visitors to donate canned goods for charity. Stay tuned to the website for dates and more details as they become available. Event details.
Queens
Making Music With Friends at Church in the Gardens Nov. 19: Learn how friends make music together and join in the fun with this 45-minute interactive concert for kids. Kids of all ages are invited to hear chamber music and engage with the performers. If you want to attend the paid concert after this event, you can present your free ticket to get 50% off the ticket price. Event details.
Hands on History: Queens Hip-Hop at King Manor Nov. 19: Celebrate national Hip-Hop Month at this month’s free family day at King Manor. Learn about some key 90s rap and hip-hop legends, with a special emphasis on those who come from Queens. Then, make your own trading cards and microphone for your future performances. Event details.
Buckets for Blue: Volunteer Cleanup Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: Help clean part of the Raritan Bay’s shoreline by collecting the trash and plastics that litter the shore. Visitors can borrow buckets and grabbers from the park’s visitor’s center. Event details.
Tues. throughout Nov.: Bring your toddler (ages 0-4 are best suited for this activity) to the nature center at Clay Pit Ponds for a morning of fun and exploration. The The day begins indoors, as kids explore a different nature theme each week. Then, if the weather’s nice, the group moves outside for a short hike. Event details.
Various and Other Locations
Pumpkin Smash Events Do you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween? Bring them to a pumpkin smash! This is chance to destroy your old pumpkins before they go bad in a fun way, but also recycle them for fertilizing! Check out all the places that are hosting pumpkin smash events.
Libraries Around the City Throughout Nov.: Libraries all around the boroughs have something going on basically every day! Stop by your local library and enjoy their free programming. There’s something for everyone, from baby singalongs and toddler craft times to teen tech time, and more.
A few highlights for November include the Children’s Film Series at the NYPL for the Performing Arts on Nov. 10, where you can watch a classic children’s movie on a 16mm projector, and the Solar Race Cars workshop at Allerton Library, where kids will build their own solar-powered vehicles, then race them against each other (if there’s time):
November might bring in the cold, but it’ll also bring in the welcoming warmth of the city’s holiday markets. These holidays feature vendors from the city and beyond as well as delicious and comforting food. Check out these seasonal markets arriving in NYC for the winter this month:
Seeds (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 1: Just one final day in November to see this massive roots transformed into a seed sculpture by artist Jaime Miranda-Bambaren. You can view this statement on humanity encroaching on nature at Thomas Paine Park.
The Great Debate (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 13: Standing at 16 feet tall, this fiberglass sculpture depicts artist Hebru Brantley’s character, Flyboy. The character is a take on the superhero genre by the artist, who drew inspiration from the Tuskegee Airmen—WWII’s first African-American military pilots—to create his vision of what a black superhero might look like. Flyboy stands proudly at The Battery.
The Giving Tree (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: The colorful Giving Tree by Haksul Lee, located at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is more than just an art piece: It’s a functional piece of architecture. The installation uses wind power to generate electricity, which has powered some of the lights in the park and allowed visitors to charge their devices. It’s departing from the park in November, but hopefully its message stays on.
Going Back to The Meadows (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: This tribute to Queens native LL Cool J by Sherwin Banfield is fun and functional, as well: The speakers are solar powered. Visit the piece before it leaves at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Faces of Harlem (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This community-centric outdoor photo wall in Morningside Park takes a look at Harlem residents private indoor spaces, highlighting the themes of connections and isolation. There are over 100 photos to look at, taken by 10 modern artists as well as three youth photographers.
Good Neighbors (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This photo wall commemorates community members from around the Anibal Aviles Playground, by displaying their images along with short interviews. Created by J Maya Luz, this installation shares a wall in the playground with a number of other artworks, inclkuding a memorial for the park’s namesake.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Located a stone’s throw away from Yankee Stadium, this museum displays modern art with a focus on urban experiences and culture. Explore what it means to be a part of the NYC community, and specifically the demographic in the museum’s neighborhood.
The museum is always free, and has a permanent collection as well as rotating special exhibits.
1040 Grand Concourse
Concourse Village Online:bronxmuseum.org
Wave Hill
This gorgeous garden has 28 acres of carefully cultivated plants, flowers and woodland. Take a stroll through the indoor Alpine House, stop for a photo-op of the Hudson River and the Palisades at the Pergola, or sit and relax by the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens. The space frequently hosts family-friendly programs so be sure to check their calendar before you head out.
New York Botanical Garden
With over 250 acres to see, the New York Botanical Garden can definitely be a whole-day affair. The Garden is open rain or shine, and has a mix of indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. See seasonal flowers and native plants, a peaceful rock garden, an entire forest, and much more. The Garden also conducts research, hosts family and child-oriented events, and has online seminars — including one where experts will answer your questions about why your potted plant is looking a little droopy.
Free admission is available for NYC residents on Wednesdays.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is like an educational playground for kids. Find exhibits created specifically for little ones to view and learn with, as well as many hands-on activities that teach through fun and play. Don’t miss the NEST, an organic playground located on the museum’s roof, the water-based play space, or the newly opened Jurassic Mini-golf.
The museum’s Amazon Free Hours grant free admission to all visitors on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
American Folk Art Museum
The American Folk Art Museum explores the joys of self-taught artists from the 1800s all the way through today. These artworks symbolize authentic American culture and experience through time and provide a snapshot of life in different time periods. Along with beautiful photographs and arts on canvas and board, the museum has some unique collections like weather-vanes. The museum has a number of coloring and activity pages that kids can enjoy from home, as well.
National Museum of the American Indian
Part of the Smithsonian Institution family, this museum honors American Indians. It displays modern and classic art by people of American Indian heritage, and teaches visitors about their cultures and traditions. It also frequently has performances, educational programs, and more.
The Skyscraper Museum
Look to the skies at the Skyscraper Museum where NYC’s iconic skyline is explored and celebrated. The museum’s exhibits look at the architecture of the city’s buildings, the literal rise of skyscrapers in NYC, and all other things related to the city’s buildings and their history. The museum also often hosts free family events both at the museum and in different locations around the city.
Admission to The Skyscraper Museum is free through December.
The Jewish Museum
View a celebration of Jewish culture, heritage and artwork at this museum. Exhibits highlight art and photography by Jewish artists, from modern artists working today to key historical figures who helped shape the way art and Jewish culture intersect. The museum also hosts free special events, from museum tours for people with memory loss, to art-making workshops for children and families.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library, which was started by Pierpont Morgan and is now continuously growing, hosts a collection of rare and unique books. While the books in the library itself aren’t available for visitors to browse, you can marvel at the beauty of the library and visit the exhibits, which often show old books, newspaper clippings, and other historic artifacts.
Entry into the Library is free on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3 to 5 p.m., no reservation required. Free Friday programs take place every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and these do need a ticket, which are released for reservation a week in advance.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
This museum examines the history of Jewish people, the hardships they’ve overcome, and the hope for a brighter present and future. The museum has exhibits that discuss the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and accounts of the time, as well as artwork and sculptures by Holocaust survivors.
You can visit this museum for free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 p.m. A ticket is required, which you can get by choosing the Thursday 4 p.m. slot on the museum website.
Edmond J. Safra Plaza
36 Battery Place
Financial District Online:mjhnyc.org
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA is an iconic institute, displaying modern artworks, sculptures, and media / performance pieces created from the 1880s and beyond. The art here will make you feel and think — and, although most exhibits aren’t interactive, the many bright and striking colors and interesting shapes make a great entry point for kids to talk about and explore art.
Thanks to a sponsorship by UNIQLO, the MoMA grants NYC residents free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 4 to 8 p.m.
11 West 53 St.
Midtown
Admission to the MoMA PS1 is always free to New Yorkers, thanks to The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
9/11 Memorial Museum
This museum is a tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 (as well as the February 26, 1993) attacks on the World Trade Center. Visit to learn about the horrific event through media, personal narratives, and a collection of artifacts telling the many stories of that day.
Free admission is offered on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This museum encourages exploration and learning through hands-on exhibits. These often mix fun movement and bright colors with conversations about serious topics like women’s voting rights. Kids can also go on quests featuring their favorite characters like Dora, use their imagination by pretending to be superheroes, discover new cultures through interactive experiences, and much more. Exhibits change often, so stop by at various times of year to see what’s new.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is free to enter on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m.
Queens County Farm Museum
Get away from the city for a farm visit! Meet and greet farm animals (and even get to pet some at the petting zoo), engage with the sensory wonders of the children’s garden, embark on a cute scavenger hunt for the smallest tots, and more. For a small fee, visitors can go on a hayride, and parents can browse the Farm Store for farm-fresh produce, eggs, teas, wool, and other goods created and harvested right on the farm.
The Farm Museum is free to enter every day, except on special ticketed days.
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Bellrose Manor Online:queensfarm.org
Socrates Sculpture Park
Founded in 1986, this park is a place where visitors can have a picnic among incredible sculptures. The artwork on display is always changing, so this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to. Currently on viewing are sculptures like “Steel Bodies” by Maren Hassinger and “Broadway Billboard” by the park’s teen group, Socrateens.
The Socrates Sculpture Park is a public park and admission is free.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor is a must-see if you’ve never been. It’s a beautiful, sprawling grounds have a collection of gardens and plants, while special locations like the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art have their own atmosphere (as well as hours and admission prices).
The Scholar’s Garden is free for Staten Island residents, and the main outdoor grounds and gardens are always free to the public from dawn to dusk.
From Dodger baseball to ice cream showdowns, discover fun, family-filled events taking place in Los Angeles over Labor Day weekend
Labor Day is (literally) around the corner, and you might be brainstorming for family-friendly activities around LA that go beyond the usual suspects of splash pads and waterparks, playgrounds and parks, and going to the beach (although these beaches are our favorite if you’re looking for some recs). Don’t sweat it—from nights at the Hollywood Bowl to a Forest for the Trees, we’ve sussed out the most fun and unique events around town that will keep you and your brood happy all the way through the long weekend.
Family Friendly Labor Day Weekend Activities around LA
Maestro of the Movies at the Hollywood Bowl
Join the LA Philharmonic and Hollywood’s most iconic composer, John Williams, for an unforgettable night of cinematic scores from some of Williams’ biggest blockbusters, including Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, Jaws, Star Wars and many more! Grab those light sabers and bring the kids for an evening to remember.
Good to Know: This super popular show tends to sell out.
When: Fri., Sept. 2 at 8 p.m., Sat., Sept. 3 at 8 p.m., and Sun. Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m. Cost: Advance tickets are available in a variety of price ranges online.
Enjoy Huntington Gardens’ last summer evening stroll of the season where the whole family can check out the gorgeous gardens at twilight. With cooler temps and smaller crowds, it’s a lovely time to visit. The 1919 Café will be open until 7 p.m. so be sure to grab a delicious bite (and a glass of vino) as well.
Good to Know: Timed tickets tend to go quickly, so don’t delay.
When: Fri., Sept. 2, 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Cost: Tickets are available online and run $20 for adults, $5 for kids ages 4-11, and littles 3 and under are free. Huntington Garden members are also free.
Load up the fam bam and head down to Hermosa Beach for Fiesta Hermosa, a 3-day celebration featuring live bands, a beach concert, a carnival with rides and games, a petting zoo, a food fair, an outdoor marketplace featuring local vendors, an art festival and much more. The event even features remote, free shuttle parking and a bike valet.
Arcadia’s final 626 Night Market of the summer is an absolute must this Labor Day! As the largest night market in the United States, this iconic California festival inspired by the open-air nighttime bazaars of Asia, features over 250 local food and merchandise vendors, crafts, artists, games, live concerts and entertainment events. Kids will love the human-sized claw game and giant baby bottles filled with delicious fruit drinks. And the food–oh man, the food is to die for! It’s truly one of the most unique events in SoCal.
Good to Know: Some vendors only accept cash, so it’s best to have some on hand.
When: Sat., Sept 3 - Mon., Sept. 5, 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. Cost: Admission is $5 in advance online, $6 at the door, and children 3 and under are free.
Looking for a fun film experience under the stars that’s out of the ordinary? Check out the last weekend of Fairmont Miramar’s Poolside Cinema series with family-friendly showings of Brave and Cars II as you lounge poolside with food and drinks by hotel restaurant, FIG. Seating is complimentary for all hotel guests, but costs $25 per guest for everyone else.
When: Sat., Sept. 3 for Brave and Sun., Sept. 4 for Cars II, 8 p.m. Cost: $25 per person if you're not a hotel guest and advanced tickets can be booked online. Hotel guests get free seating.
If you find yourself near Torrance this Labor Day weekend, be sure to swing by the Shin-Sen- Gumi 8th Charity Summer Festival. Held at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, the family-friendly event will feature a taste of Japan and celebration of Japanese culture with tons of live music, entertainment, anime cosplay, tasty food, drinks, and even an eating contest! All proceeds are donated to the City of Torrance and its education facility.
When: Sat., Sept. 3, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Cost: General admission is $1 per person, cash only.
Wanna go into the woods? Check out the final weekend of A Forest for the Trees in Boyle Heights. This elaborate art installation—a collaboration from Atlantic journalists, tribal leaders, environmental scientists and incredible artists—has transformed a 28,000 sq. ft. DTLA space into a surreal and magical forest that invites families to contemplate their relationship with nature. Guests will experience illusions of controlling fire with their hands, talking animatronic trees, water you can walk on and multi-sensory storytelling. For every ticket purchased, two trees will be planted.
When: Now - Sun., Sept. 4 Cost: Timed tickets are available online with prices ranging from $15.50 - $37. Children under 6 are free.
Seeing a summer movie in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is treasured tradition that many families look forward to each season. Over Labor Day weekend, Cinespia is screening two classics that kids of all ages will love—Grease and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Pack a picnic or grab some treats from the concession stand and grill. Gates open at 6:15 p.m. with DJs serving up fab sets until showtime at 8 p.m.
When: Sat., Sept. 3 for Grease and Sun. Sept. 4 for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, doors open at 6:15 p.m. Cost: General admission tickets are $22 in advance online.
6000 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles Online:cinespia.org
Eat See Hear Outdoor Film Series
If Ratatouille is one of your fave films, you’ll definitely want to attend the Eat See Hear screening over Labor Day weekend at The Autry Museum. In true culinary fashion, an all-star lineup of food pop-ups will be available on site to satisfy your inner Remy the Rat with selections ranging from tacos and Caribbean food to BBQ and Filipino delights. Before showtime, R&B/Indie-pop performer StaJe will entertain the crowd.
When: Sun., Sept. 4, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cost: Advance online admission ranges from $14-$30.
4700 Western Heritage Way Los Angeles Online:eatseehear.com
Get on your boogie shoes and join thousands of your fellow Angelenos for a free night of music and dancing on the Jerry Moss Plaza at the Music Center downtown. The super fun event features LA’s top DJs spinning tunes and local bands playing live while the crowd learns new moves in different dance styles—from Disco and Tango to Bollywood and Salsa. All ages are welcome!
On Sun., Sept. 4, Santa Monica will host the Americana in the Park concert. Singer-songwriter, poet, author and culture bearer, Tina Orduno Calderon, will open the evening with a Tongva land acknowledgment and blessing, followed by a performance from nine-time world champion Native hoop dancer, Eric Hernandez. The headliner for the night is Prince Diabaté and Friends, widely regarded as one of the leading kora players of his generation. A variety of food trucks will be on site as well throughout the event.
LACMA’s uber popular Friday night jazz performances continue over Labor Day weekend with a concert on the Smidt Welcome Plaza by Ladera Heights brothers, Aaron and Lawrence Shaw, otherwise known as Black Nile. Bring a picnic and the family for an evening of incredible tunes.
When: Fri., Sept. 2, 6 p.m. Tickets: Free and all ages are welcome.
Take them out to the ball game this Labor Day as the Dodgers play at home all weekend long. Fri. - Sun., the boys in blue take on the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium. Friday’s game will feature fireworks as well. On Mon., the Dodgers go up against the San Francisco Giants. Play ball!
When: Fri. Sept. 2 at 7:10 p.m., Sat. Sept. 3 at 6:10 p.m. and Sun., Sept. 4 at 4:08 p.m. vs. the San Diego Padres. On Mon., Sept. 5 at 7:10 p.m. vs. the San Francisco Giants. Cost: Tickets are available online in a wide range of prices.
Café Gratitude Larchmont is hosting a Vegan Ice Cream Showdown on Labor Day! There will be live music, Oliopop root beer floats, raffle prizes, vegan bites, a photo booth and mouthwatering samples from local vegan ice cream vendors. For grown-ups, there will be special boozy ice cream spritzes—holla! Guests will also have a chance to taste, judge, and vote for their favorite ice cream with one vendor being crowned the ultimate champion!
While all of us would love to travel the world and fill up our passports, the hard reality is that most of us find ourselves planning a trip to Disney or LEGOLAND instead (especially with the way flight prices are going). However, we’ve found a loophole. It is possible to get a “feel” for Germany, Denmark, England and more without actually leaving the United States. We’ve uncovered some of the best American cities that feel international (think Solvang, California and more), and some of them just might be near you. Put down the Rosetta Stone and let’s go; they’re just a road trip away!
Founded in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, Pella is known by many as “America’s Dutch Treasure.”
What to do: The Vermeer Mill serves as the town’s crown jewel. It is the tallest working mill in the U.S. that offers daily guided tours. It is surrounded by the historical village, flower gardens and canal with a drawbridge. Be sure to visit the Klokkenspel during one of its daily presentations when eight, four-foot tall mechanical figures come to play to the music of 147 bell carillon. Pella is also home to the Frisian Farms Cheese House which makes artisan Gouda.
Where to eat: Your best choices for authentic Dutch cuisine include the Jaarsma Bakery (which specializes in made-from-scratch Dutch pastries) and Monarchs Restaurant & Lounge (which offers Dutch Spiced Beef served with hutspot and rode kool—aka mashed potatoes and red cabbage).
The Cascades mountain range makes the perfect backdrop for the Bavarian town of Leavenworth where the hills are alive with the sound of music or so it seems.
What to do: Festivals are planned all year long including Maifest during Mother’s Day weekend, the International Accordion Celebration in June, three weekends of Oktoberfest and three weekends of the Christmas Lighting Festival. Very few chain businesses are allowed in town, and the ones that are here must fit in with the German theme. In town, you’ll find numerous themed shops with authentic music playing and many art shows in the park during the summer months. For families with older kids, Leavenworth is a great place to try white water rafting during the summer or various snow activities during the winter.
Where to eat: Authentic restaurants include Andreas Keller (specializing in rotisserie-broiled chicken and schweinshax’n, sausages and sauerkraut), Gustav’s Beer Garden and Grill (serving burgers and German sausages) and Baren Haus (with German entrees and some the best burgers and pizza in town).
While Venice may not be the first place in mind while visiting Los Angeles, it is certainly worth a stop. In 1905, developer Abbot Kinney created man-made canals in hopes or recreating the look and feel of Venice, Italy.
What to do: Today, many of the original older houses along the canals have been replaced by larger modern houses, so the “look” isn’t the same, but the “feel” is. It’s still a fun place to visit and a nice reprieve from all of the hustle and bustle of the nearby big city. While in Venice, other sites worth visiting include the famous Venice Boardwalk where there are lots of little shops, dining spots and street performers hoping to make it big. Then, of course, there’s Venice beach where the water is a favorite for surfers and the sand for musclemen.
Where to eat: You don’t have to go far to get the whole Italy experience as the Venice Canal Historic District is home to four Italian restaurants (Casa Ado, The Tasting Kitchen, Barrique and Cetanni) all located less than a mile away.
Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus can be found in the heart of Green County in southern Wisconsin.
What to do: The town has been considered a magnet for Swiss settlers for over 150 years. The town’s attractions include the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum (housed in a 1937 authentic copy of a Swiss Bernese mountain chalet), the Swiss Center of North America (which collects and showcases all that is Swiss in North America), the Swiss Historical Village (14 buildings that focus on the town’s history) and the amusing New Glarus “Cows On Parade" (14 fiberglass and decorated cows are on display throughout the town).
Where to stay and eat: While in town, stay at the authentic Chalet Landhaus which combines old Swiss charm and modern conveniences. For Swiss cuisine and great steaks, dine at Glarner Stube. And, if you're a beer geek, a stop at New Glarus Brewing is a must.
While Boston is rich in American history, it is worth noting that most of the city’s oldest buildings have a distinctly British feel to them. In some parts of the city, it feels as though you're walking the streets of England.
What to do: To get the full experience, take your family on the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail Tour. Tours are led by the Freedom Trail Players who'll take you to various historic places that tell the story of the American Revolution—including Paul Revere’s house.
Where to eat: Continue the history lesson by dining at such places as the Green Dragon Tavern (which first opened in 1654 and was a hangout for Revere), the Union Oyster House (which has been around since 1826 and home of the first toothpick) and the Warre Tavern (which opened in 1780 and is rumored to have been a favorite of Revere’s as well).
Many families only think of Florida as the home to Disney World, but St. Augustine proves that there is much more to see in this state.
What to do: St. Augustine has the distinction of being our country’s oldest city. The historic district is where you’ll find city’s strongest Spanish influence with its cobblestone streets, corner cafes and bed and breakfast inns. Some of the historic sights worth visiting include Fort Mose State Park, Fort Matanzas, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and Flagler College. On the spooky side, your family might enjoy the Lightner Museum, with its weird collections of shrunken heads and mummies or the Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum which is housed in the Castle Warden built in 1887.
Where to eat: Nestled under a famous cedar tree for over 50 years, a stop at the Spanish Bakery & Cafe for empanadas and picadillo, prepared in a traditional stone hearth oven, is a must.
Solvang is home to various Danish icons such as the Little Mermaid Fountain, the Round Tower, historic churches and five windmills.
What to do: Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to learn more about the author who penned The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling and others. The town features over 150 one-of-a-kind boutique shops; many with European imports. Two of Solvang’s biggest festivals include Danish Days in September (which features three parades, Danish folk dancing and a Viking encampment) and Julefest all month long in December.
Where to eat: No trip would be complete without stopping at one of the five authentic Danish bakeries or visit all five, we won’t judge. For awesome lunch, check out the Aebleskiver Café (serving Danish Aebleskiver and sausage).
There’s no denying the strong French influence that covers Charleston with its numerous mansions and historic building to explore.
What to do: The strongest influence can be found in the French Quarter District due to its large number of French merchants. Here you’ll find the Pink House Tavern that was built in 1712, the beautiful Dock Street Theatre and French Huguenot Church. After some exploring, wander toward the Joe Riley Waterfront Park where the kids can cool off in the giant pineapple fountain and splash pad. For souvenir shopping, check out the Charleston City Market.
Where to eat: As you can imagine, there are a lot of French restaurants here to try out including Gaulart and Maliclet Café Restaurant, Breizh Pan Crepes and 39 Rue de Jean.
Seattle’s Chinatown-International District also features Japantown and Little Saigon. It is only a mile away from downtown and features an eclectic mix of old and new world values.
What to do: The area is the center of many festivals held throughout the year including Lunar New Year Festival in February, Dragon Fest in July and C-ID Night Market held in September which features food, arts and crafts, live entertainment and a beer garden. The Wing Luke Asian Museum is a must-see, as well as the 86-year-old 35,000-square-foot Uwajimaya Asian grocery and gift store.
Where to eat: As you can imagine, authentic restaurants are in an abundance and are too many to list here. Just take our word for it!
San Juan Bautista is known as the “City of History” that ranges from organic farming to a bustling shopping center of town with a variety of shops and boutiques.
What to do: The largest of all California missions, Old Mission San Juan Bautista is located here, and the only Spanish Plaza left in the state can be found at the State Historic Park. Authentic Mexican food is available on every corner, the Old Adobe Antiques shop and the Plaza Market Shops will transport you to Mexico and the El Teatro Campesino features professional Latino theater productions for all ages. And if you need a little excitement, this city likes to party, offering 15 different festivals every year.
While visiting all the fun places in busy San Francisco, take some time to chill at the Japanese Tea Garden.
What to do: It is the oldest public garden of its kind in the United States and probably the grandest. Sure, the idea of getting kids excited to see a bunch of plants might sound like a chore, but they’ll be amazed when you arrive. Located in the Golden Gate Park, the garden is five acres of beautiful native Japanese plants and cherry blossom trees. Among the treasures, you’ll find here is an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone pathways, koi ponds and a zen garden. Stop by the Tea House for fortune cookies and other treats and find perfect souvenirs at the gift shop.
Less than a half hour away from Clearwater, Florida you’ll find Tarpon Springs which was founded in the early 1900’s by Greek sponge divers.
What to do: Today, the area offers numerous boat tours with some that allow kids to try on antique scuba diving gear. The Dodecanese Boulevard aka the “Sponge Docks” lines the riverfront of the town with gift shops, antiques and authentic Greek restaurants which include Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Hellas and Mykonos. A stop by the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is in order too. Other non-Greek things to see in town include the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Resource Center, which features many interactive exhibits and a nature store and the numerous beaches.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Helen received a German makeover in 1968. Today it boasts of over 200 specialty shops and import shops with many of them featuring craftsman busy at work.
What to do: During the summer, float down the Chattahoochee River, pan for gold and gems or take in a horse-drawn carriage ride. Helen’s annual festivals include the an annual balloon race in early summer, Oktoberfest in September and October and Alpenlights Christmas celebration in December, but year round there are a ton of family activities for kids of all ages. Check out their calendar here.
Where to eat: One of the best German-style restaurants in town is the Troll Tavern serving up Bratwurst sausages on hoagie rolls, Grilled Reuben sandwiches and Wienerschnitzel Platter (which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet).
If you thought last summer was happening, you better brace yourself for the wild ride that is Summer 2022 in NYC. It’s hard to hit all the “hot” spots during a typical summer, this year it’s gonna be downright impossible. (Which is just how we like it.) Bonus: tons of activities are free. Buckle up: here’s our list of things to do with kids in NYC, summer 2022 edition. Now slather on some sunscreen and get busy! (Looking to make an escape at some point this summer? Try these weekend getaways from NYC, these mellow beach towns, and these kid-friendly international destinations.)
Dive-in to NYC's free public pools. The city's free, often humongous, outdoor pools are open again as of Saturday, June 28. Find your pool here, and be sure to read the rules before heading out!
Visit LEGOLAND Haven't made it to the brick-tastic attraction upstate? The park includes seven LEGO-themed lands, with attractions such as Miniland, Ninja Training Camp, Build and Test, Robotic LEGO play, LEGO Creative workshops and tons of LEGO-themed rides for thrills, spins and more. ( The "Driving School" experience is a must and the NYC Miniland will blow your mind. Trust us.) For the full experience, stay overnight in the LEGOland Hotel, which offers LEGO-themed suites (ninja, LEGO Friends, pirate, etc.) with a separate bunk area for kids. Plus: the elevators are mini discos!
Day passes start at $68 with advance purchase; room rates start at $169. 1 LEGOland Blvd. Goshen, NY Online: legoland.com
Or opt for a climate-controlled, indoor waterparks. (Where you can often stay over and make a weekend of it.) Click here to get booking!
Riverside Park Conservancy
Visit the Goats in Riverside Park The goats are back to help control the invasive weeds in the park. The "Running of the Goats" (when they enter the park) happens on June 29 at 11 a.m. at Riverside Park and 120th Street. But you can stop by and say "hello! all summer long!
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
See Artist-created Birdhouses of All Kinds at "For the Birds" at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden For the Birds is a multimedia exhibit centered around a Garden-wide outdoor exhibition of dozens of site-specific birdhouses created by artists of international renown.
Enjoy Free Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater The Public Theater marks its 60th season with Richard III(June 21-July 17) and As You Like It(Aug. 10-Sept. 11) (We're guessing the latter is probably a better choice.)
Go the beach! NYC public beaches are free, and they are open through September 11. Here's our guide to visiting NYC beaches.(You can get to all of these using public transportation. Note that if you drive, parking is not free, and often pricey.) See all of NYC public beaches here.
Visit Coney Island. Coney Island is open, with the famous Cyclone celebrating 95 years, and the planned debut of a new family-friendly rollercoaster, log flume and ropes course at Luna Park. Deno's Wonder Wheel's new family thrill coaster, The Phoenix is now open. The world-famous Mermaid Day Parade, celebrating 40 years, is June 18. Don't forget: Deno's puts on a free firework show every night at 9:45 p.m. Friday starting July 8 through September 2.
Wikimedia
Walk the Highline. This free, elevated park is a one-of-a-kind destination filled with native plantings and thought-provoking art. (It's also right by the Whitney Museum and Little Island @Pier 55.) See hours, art and programming info at the park here.
Sample the best of NYC food at an outdoor market. Take your pick of where to nosh: Smorgasburg in Williamsburg, Prospect Park, Jersey City, FiDi, or Queens Night Market in Flushing Meadows Corona Park or Rockefeller Center. You'll find lots of options in Time Out New York Market in DUMBO's Brooklyn Bridge Park. It's inside, but you can sit down or take it to go.
Coming in hot for the summer! It’s Memorial Day Weekend, so pack up a picnic, celebrate Fleet Week(end) at the Intrepid, explore a local park and swing by a festive market for food and fun in the Bronx. Nice outside? Go for a hike Rainy? Check out a movie at one of our favorite theaters for kids. Or get out of town and go on a day trip!
Honor Mother Earth at CMOM
Help build a “community garden” and do hands-on art activities and science projects exploring the natural world.
Yes, it’s Mother’s Day weekend (you’re the best, mom!), and you’ll find celebrations throughout NYC like a special picnic, photo shoot-ready flower patches and crafting sessions. But you can also visit a major museum for free, hit up the debut of a beloved food and culture market in Queens and see a family-friendly Barber of Seville. Want more? Head to brunch with mom at one of the city’s best spots to brunch with kids, try one of our favorite spring day trips near NYC and hit up these places for NYC’s best spring blooms.
We are always on the hunt for a good book, and this one struck us as a must-read immediately. Amah Faraway by Margaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Tracey Subisak, is the heartwarming story of Kylie, a young girl visiting her grandmother on the other side of the world for the first time. Not only is it timely, with how often we’ve had to put off plans of seeing our own loved ones, but it’s also a beautiful story about the bond between grandkids and grandparents and the awe-inspiring experience of traveling to an unfamiliar place. Kids will be able to relate to the emotion of feeling nervous about new things, just like Kylie.
Kylie is nervous about visiting her grandmother (Amah in Taiwanese) in Taiwan. When she arrives, she's shy, and at first, she's uncomfortable with the language, customs, culture and food—video chats just aren't the same. But slowly and surely, when she and Amah visit the night market, eat with relatives and splash in hot springs, Kylie starts opening her heart and having so much fun! When it's time to go home, the video chats will be extra special until they can visit faraway again.
This story is about a long-distance family and what it means to embrace your culture. Regardless of background, all kids can relate to the emotion of feeling nervous about the new or unfamiliar. Its clever reverse poem text and vibrant illustrations make for a heartfelt journey that you will enjoy reading and experiencing together! The combined English, pinyin and Traditional Chinese characters throughout also help make Amah Faraway stand out on any bookshelf. If you're looking to diversify their book collection and introduce new cultures and family styles they may not otherwise encounter, this book is for you.
"An au courant portrayal of a transnational childhood." ―Kirkus Reviews
"A sympathetic portrayal of long-distance family ties." ―Booklist
"Encouraging openness toward new experiences amid a centering of one child's diasporic shift in cultural perception, this contemporary tale tenderly spotlights the strengthening of an intergenerational relationship." ―Publishers Weekly
We are loving Amah Faraway, and how it uncovers what it means to feel at home far away, and how families connect across distance, language and cultures. It most definitely deserves a front-and-center spot on your bookshelf—add it to your collection today!
You’ve made your list. You’ve checked it twice. Now get shopping! This year, support local businesses and pick a gift from a store near you. Flip through our guide for ideas to get your brains churning.
For Your Favorite Water Bug: Swim Lessons with Goldfish
Outdoor pools are drained, but that doesn't mean the water play has to stop. Help keep kids in the swim of things through winter with the gift of swim lessons from Goldfish Swim School Chicagoland. They'll be unwrapping more than the usual present, they'll be unwrapping life lessons mixed with smiles and confidence that comes from progress and mastery. More importantly, they'll be building on water safety skills—a gift that can save lives.
Swimming is always in season at Goldfish, so get ahead of the Winter Blues and gift the Golden Experience! Holiday gift packages include free lessons, a special Goldfish towel, dry bag and in-school credit.
Cost: Packages vary by location Locations throughout Chicagoland. Visit goldfishswimschool.com for pricing and purchasing.
For Members-Only Access: Give the Gift of Membership to Chicago Favorites
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
If you're a super-fan of a particular museum, play space or attraction, maybe it's high time you became a card-carrying member. Along with scoring sweet perks like access to special events, discounts and free parking, you're helping an awesome family destination thrive. Often in the case of some of the biggies, after just two visits, the museum membership has paid for itself — and you can avoid those long admission lines. Read our story for the scoop on memberships you should consider gifting to your gang (or grandkids!) this holiday season.
For the Builders: LEGO Chicago & LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGO
No matter the age, LEGO appears at the tippy top of most Christmas lists. We have one that builders and Chicago lovers alike will love to add to their collections. This 444-piece Chicago skyline set features Willis Tower, the building formerly known as John Hancock Center, Big Red, Wrigley Building, DuSable Bridge and Cloud Gate (aka The Bean), finished off with a Chicago nameplate.
For the kid that can't get enough LEGO, consider an annual pass for the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Schaumburg, which has attractions for families that includes a Miniland, rides, a 4D cinema, a master builder workshop, an opportunity to build and race your own LEGO car and much more!
Cost: $204 for LEGO Chicago Skyline set on Amazon, $44.95+/person for annual pass LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago; Streets of Woodfield, 601 N. Martingale Rd.; Schaumburg; Online: legolanddiscoverycenter.com
For Showing West Town Pride: Holiday Bundles
Give the gift of West Town with a West Town Holiday Bundle, or split the items between loved ones on your 'nice' list. Three themed packages are available, each set features items from 5+ neighborhood favorites.
The Snow Day — The perfect collection to keep anyone comfy and cozy during a Chicago winter.
The Holiday Party — Show or share your West Town neighborhood spirit.
The New Year — Everything you need and want to kick off your "new year, new me" or "new year, same me" routine.
Annie from Vicinity Candles Etsy shop sells candles inspired by local Chicago neighborhoods, with scents like Lakeview, West Loop, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Gold Coast, Pilsen, Wicker Park and Hyde Park. Each includes an insert that provides a glimpse into the neighborhood history which led to the inspiration for the scent.
Whether you're parenting with a same-sex partner or want to show LGBTQ+ pride support, this colorful twist on a traditional black and white Chicago skyline print is a subtle way to start your tiny human down a path of inclusivity and kindness.
For Those Who'd Like an On-the-Go Snuggle Buddy: Pockimals
Pockimals is making getting dressed ridiculously adorable with their Pockimals. These tiny stuffed animals come equipped with buttons that secure them directly to their custom-designed clothing pockets making them impossible to lose. All items are organic and produced with soft cotton to ensure comfort and no-scratchiness happiness. This Chicago-based company is made up of a team of friends who wanted to create the best children's toy to enhance creativity and focus on the magic of childhood.
For a Fun Night Out: Sauced at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
Combine a fun night out with holiday shopping and support local artisans at Sauced: The Night Market Before Christmas at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel Dec. 9 & 10. The event will include more than 30 vendors, food options and a DJ. While you're there, stop into Happy's, the hotel's over-the-top Christmas pop-up bar.
Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Loop; Online: saucedmarket.com
For Celebrating Chicago's Favorite Street Food: Hot Dogs
It is never too early to teach kids the proper (Chicago) way to eat a hot dog, sans ketchup, of course. Have them slip into this adorable hot dog-themed shirt and then hit up your favorite hot dog stand in Chicago.
Raise your hand if you love a good puzzle! If you have your hand up, you'll love this 1,000-piece neon Neighborhood Map of Chicago puzzle. Puzzle-lovers get to learn more about the layout of our city while assembling the map.
Chicago design studio Transit Tees' storefronts offer hundreds of Chicago-inspired gifts designed by local artists for under $40, as well as dozens of $10 and $20 stocking stuffers. Gift box sets include multiple Chicago-themed games, home goods or apparel items with free gift-wrapping and free shipping.
Cost: $40 & below Locations in Wicker Park & Andersonville; Online: transittees.com
For the Book Worms: A Book by a Chicago Author
Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Chicago has a rich literary history and is home to so many award-winning authors covering every genre under the sun. Introduce your little bookworm to Chicago’s brightest and best authors with our list of kid-approved, classic and contemporary children’s books. From picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for advanced readers, these are the Chicago-authored tomes to add to your kid's bookshelf ASAP.
Shop local and show support for local businesses that navigated their way through the pandemic. Your kids have likely already penned their Christmas lists (and have checked it way more than twice) and we can guarantee all their biggest wishes can be granted on the shelves of a local Chicago toy store. Show love to your favorite neighborhood go-to toy store or venture out to discover a new-to-you gem!
For Music Lovers: Ben Tatar and the Tatar Tots' New Album
Ben Tatar
Fans of the Chicago kiddie music scene love Ben Tatar and the Tater Tots. Lucky for us, he's back with his second family album of delectable songs about food just in time for the holidays, Seconds, releasing Nov. 12. Kids will giggle when they hear this savory gastronomic extravaganza, jam-packed with tasty treats for the ears and the dance floor.
For Fans of Christkindlmarket: Shop In-Person or Virtually
Gallagher Way
Christkindlmarket — Chicago's take on a traditional German Christmas market — is back with locations in the Loop and Wrigleyville. Browse the goods in the market's signature wooden cabins topped with festive red-and-white-striped canopies, or visit Christkindlmarket's virtual shop. If you shop the Wrigleyville location, be sure to check out Gallagher Way's Winterland programming.
For Tweens: A Bit of Pampering at Oasis Face Bar
Oasis Face Bar
It's never too early to teach kids, boys or girls, the importance of a good skincare routine. Newly opened Oasis Face Bar in Lincoln Park is the perfect intro for tweens because it takes the facial out of the spa, making it more budget-friendly and less time-consuming than a traditional spa experience. Bonus: It's locally and woman-owned. Stop by and grab a gift certificate, and maybe some masks and fun face products, to slip in your favorite tween's stocking.
From now until Christmas, for every $100 gift card you purchase, you'll receive a "Facial in A Box". Each box provides everything needed for one or two at-home facials. Wrap it along with the gift card, or take a self-care pampering day for yourself.
Cost: Treatments for as low as $49 Oasis Face Bar, 2136 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park; Online: oasisfacebar.com
For the New Moms: Metta Baby Bucktown
Metta Baby
Give new or expectant parents the gift of a one-of-a-kind experience with their new baby! Metta Baby is Chicago's premier infant wellness studio with offerings including water stimulation, infant massage, baby yoga, parent/baby classes, music classes and more! You can check out their full class schedule here. The Metta Baby team is dedicated to promoting early developmental activities starting at two weeks that support motor, sensory, and cognitive skills while nurturing secure attachment between infants and their parents. The mission is to provide a solid socialization and support system for infants and their caregivers in the earliest stages.
Cost:Gift cards in various increments are available for purchase online or at the Bucktown location.
Metta Baby; 1921 N. Damen, Bucktown; Online: mettababy.com
