As if the excitement of the Super Bowl weren’t enough, this week marks the beginning of the Winter Olympics! If you don’t happen to be on site in Sochi, then take the kids to one of these equally entertaining events, one of which is actually Olympic-themed. Enjoy!
Beginning Friday, February 7
Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds
New Victory Theater
Various times
Starting this Friday, Maryland’s Adventure Theatre MTC will stage their production of “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds” at the New Victory Theater. Based on the children’s book by Marley’s daughter Cedella, this musical tells the story of Ziggy, his fears of the outside world, and how Dr. Bird helps Ziggy realize that peace and understanding go a long way in solving many problems. This 55-minute show is the perfect way to introduce children ages 5 and up to the legendary reggae music of the one and only Bob Marley. Runs through Sunday, February 23. Tickets start at $14.
Saturday, February 8
Olympic Fest
Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers
7 am-7 pm
Calling all winter sports enthusiasts! Enjoy the excitement of the Winter Olympic Games right here in NYC during Chelsea Piers’ Olympic Fest. All ages are welcome to watch figure skating exhibitions and ice hockey games at the venue’s East and West Rinks, and ice skaters of all abilities can hit the rink during free ice skating hours (1:30 & 3 pm). Plus, visitors can warm up with complimentary hot chocolate and coffee and check out live TV coverage of the Sochi Olympic Games in the Club Lounge and the Sunset Terrace.
Family Saturday
French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF)
2 pm
FIAF’s Family Saturdays are family-friendly days during which French and non-French speakers alike are invited to the institute for activities and performances dedicated to French culture. This Saturday, the institute invites ages 6 and up to Florence Gould Hall for a musical performance of “The Story of Babar.” Based on the classic French children’s book Histoire de Babar by Jean de Brunhoff, this enchanting show brings to life everyone’s favorite elephant and his wife, Celeste. Afterwards, ages 7 and up can stay for a screening of the animated movie, “Zarafa,” about a boy’s friendship with the first giraffe to visit France. Meanwhile, ages 5 and up can participate in a culinary Valentine’s Day workshop with Sylvie Berger, where they will make and decorate heart-shaped cookies! “The Story of Babar” will be performed in French, “Zarafa” will be shown in French with English subtitles, and the cooking workshop will be conducted in French and English. Check FIAF’s website for individual event prices and start times.
Family Concert: Who Is Dave Brubeck?
Rose Theater
3 pm
A dedicated and creative father, musician Dave Brubeck once used unusual methods to teach his children, including creating a bumbling alter ego named Professor Nooseknocker. Celebrate the life of the late pianist and composer with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. Best for ages 6 through 12. Tickets start at $12.
Sunday, February 9
David Weinstone and The Music for Aardvarks Band
The Jewish Museum
11:30 am & 2 pm
Rock out with David Weinstone and the Music for Aardvarks Band at the Jewish Museum, where audience participation is encouraged. Children ages 2 through 5 might have the opportunity to sing or dance on stage to energetic music that is all about celebrating being a kid in the Big Apple, including favorites like “Taxi” and “Jackhammer Joe.” Tickets are $18 for adults and $13 for children ages 2 and up.
