10 Best Free Kids & Family Activities in NYC: Jan 21– Jan 27

10 Free Kid & Family Activities in NYC This Week

We always feature great family events on New York Family, and you can also find many more on our calendar. This week’s list brings together the best free experiences to help you plan memorable moments with your kids, without spending a dollar. Scroll down to get started!

Psst…Check Out NYC Restaurant Week 2026: Best Deals, Menus, and Family-Friendly Spots

Free Family Events for the Week of 1/21-1/27

Kindie Rock  Catch a fantastic roster of kid friendly performers each week as they lead families in rocking sing-a-longs! Jan. 21– March 25, Wednesdays, 10 – 10:45 am and 11 – 11:45 am. Ages 4 and younger. 6 River Terrace, 6 River Terrace, Manhattan

The Vinny Voltage Super Science Show Join Vinny Voltage for an exciting and interactive educational science show! Explore the wonders of water pressure, sound, chemistry, light, and more through engaging experiments. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 3 – 4 pm. Ages 6 – 11. Queens Public Library Maspeth, 69-70 Grand Ave., Queens

2026 Family Vision Board Workshop Learn how to create your own vision boards filled with goals, dreams, and good vibes for 2026. Bond, share ideas, and set inspiring intentions as a family. Thursday, Jan. 22, 3 pm. All ages. Register in advance. P.S. 096 Richard Rodgers, 2385 Olinville Ave., Bronx

Astronomy Night: Sidewalk Stargazing Join the Library for an evening of stargazing outside the branch and learn how to find objects and identify them in the night sky. Thursday,  Jan. 22, 5 – 6:30 pm. All ages. Brower Park Library, 155 Brooklyn Ave., Brooklyn

Magic Show with Magician Eric Q Join magician Eric Q for an interactive magic experience that delights both kids and parents. With captivating illusions and playful storytelling, Eric engages the whole family, turning ordinary moments into unforgettable magical adventures. Friday, Jan. 23, 3 – 4 pm. All ages. Cambria Heights Library, 218-13 Linden Blvd., Queens

Family Program: New Year, New Buildings! Learn about how NYC’s iconic skyline will be changing in 2026, as well as the process of approval for building something new in the city. After, finish your own skyscrapers with the most important part–the top! Create your own building spires out of paper, cardboard, and construction materials! Saturday, Jan. 24, 10:30 – 11:30 am. All ages. Advanced registration required. The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Manhattan

Brooklyn Family Ultimate Camp Fair & Activity Expo Explore a variety of Summer Camps and Programs for 2026 at the Brooklyn Family Ultimate Camp Fair & Activity Expo. Meet directors, get information, ask questions and plan an amazing summer for your child. It’s FUN for the whole family – games, raffles, arts & crafts, face painting, music & much more. Plus, the Ultimate Esports Tournament where your Gamer (ages 7-12) can compete for prizes and bragging rights! Saturday, Jan. 24, noon – 3 pm. All ages. Register in advance. Industry City Building 5, 2A, 33 35th St., Suite 52A, Brooklyn

Owl Pellet Discovery & Dissection Did you know an owl’s gizzard packs the undigested parts of their prey into a ball called a “pellet”? Join the Urban Park Rangers to dissect an owl pellet and learn all about the unique adaptations of owls and enjoy an exciting walk along the Kazmiroff Trail in search of owls in the wild! Sunday, Jan. 25, 11 am – 12:30 pm. All ages. Section 2 Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park, Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Blvd. and Wilkinson Ave., Bronx

Art in the Park: Paper Plate Winter Hats Get crafty and create paper plate winter hats during this drop-in art program! Sunday, Jan. 25, 1 – 3 pm. All ages. Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, Nature Interpretive Center, 2351 Veterans Road West, Staten Island

Melted Snowman Slime Join the children’s staff for a wintery storytime and STEAM program featuring hands-on slime creation. Make and take a melted snowman who won’t disappear in warmer weather! Tuesday, Jan. 27, 4 – 4:45 pm. Ages 6–12. West New Brighton Library, 975 Castleton Ave., Staten Island

Psst…Check Out Things to Do with the Kids This Weekend in New York

How to Make the Most of The Free Family Activities in NYC

Attending free kids’ and family events in New York City can be much easier and more enjoyable than you might expect. They are designed with families in mind, providing a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Most event locations have staff or volunteers who are always present to guide you, answer questions, and help you settle into the activities without any pressure. You are free to make the most of each experience and enjoy a full week of free family-friendly moments across the city.

• Check the Event Schedule Ahead of Time: You can begin by looking up event dates, times, and locations online. You can make little efforts to know the starting time for most of the events. So, you won’t miss the activities that matter most to your family. 
• Consider Age and Interests: Not every event is ideal for every child. Younger kids may actually enjoy parades, tree-lightings, or Santa meet-and-greets, while older children may be more engaged with hands-on workshops, cultural celebrations, or interactive performances. Planning this free event week with your child’s interests in mind ensures a more enjoyable experience.
• Prepare Essentials: Come along with a few simple items such as water, snacks, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. Warm layers may not be needed for some NYC indoor events, but outdoor parades or tree-lightings can require coats, hats, and gloves. 
• Arrive Early When Possible: Popular events like Nordstrom’s Santa Snow Show or BRIC’s Winter Wonderland can get really busy. It’s advisable to arrive early when going to such events. So, you can have a better spot and get better photo opportunities. 
• Engage and Explore: Take advantage of all the activities offered at the event. Many events have crafts, music, performances, and interactive experiences. Encourage your kids to participate fully. It’s a chance to create holiday memories without spending any money.
• Return Anytime: Free family events often run weekly or throughout the season. If your family can’t attend one week, many activities repeat, so you can plan another visit when it’s convenient.

By following these simple steps, you can make the most of NYC’s free kids events, enjoy the holiday season, and create memorable experiences for your whole family without stress or cost.

Questions Families Often Ask

1. Is registration required ahead of time for the free activities?
   Most NYC free events do not require registration, but a few ask that you register in advance. So, it’s always best to check the event’s website or contact organizers before attending.
2. What ages are these events suitable for?
   These NYC free events are family-friendly and generally suitable for all ages. Some cool activities are ideal for younger children, while interactive workshops and cultural performances may appeal more to older kids.
3. Is it advisable to bring more than one child to the events?
   Families are welcome to bring multiple children to these events, and most venues and outdoor spaces can comfortably accommodate groups of all sizes.
4. Are these events wheelchair and stroller accessible?
   Most venues and outdoor locations are accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. For specific accessibility details, please check the event’s website or contact organizers in advance.
5. How early should one arrive to get good spots for popular NYC free events?
   It’s always recommended to arrive early, especially for high-demand activities. However, arriving 15–30 minutes before they begin can help you secure good viewing spots.