New York Family Camp Fairs Are A Great Place To Start
Selecting the right camp for your child sets the stage for life-long memories, friends, and a summer brimming with enjoyment! Summer always seems to creep up on us fast here in NYC, so it’s time to start prepping your camp plans.
Instead of facing these decisions alone, head over to New York Family’s Camp Fairs, where you’ll learn about all the many camp options for your kiddos. This year, there will even be promotions, games, raffles, art & crafts, face paintings, and more—all for free.
Before we dive into the Camp Fair specifics, let’s go over what to look for so you can find the best camp for your kids.
Types of camps
Sleep away camps
Considering a sleep away camp this summer? These camps are great for boosting your kid’s independence and confidence. They’ll learn how to do things on their own, returning back in August as self-sufficient campers! Sleep away camps also improve social skills, helping your little ones form friendships outside of school. While you might be nervous to send your kids away for the summer, asking the right questions at the Camp Fairs can help! Read on for a handy checklist.
Day camps
You’re probably already familiar with the classic day camp. These are great for keeping your kids entertained (and active!) during the day. If your kids are hoping to do a little bit of everything– sports, arts & crafts, games– then a general day camp may be the way to go. They often have a “choose your own adventure” structure, where kids can choose what they want to do.
Special interest camps
Does your child have a unique interest or skill they can’t stop talking about? Help your child nurture this passion through special interest camps. These might include dance, arts & crafts, STEM, sports and theater. Your kids will be surrounded by other campers who are also excited about that interest, and specialized camp directors who are experts in their fields!
Camp Fair checklist for parents
Ready to attend a Camp Fair? Here are some of the questions to ask directors and counselors so you can find the perfect camp:
- Can you walk me through a typical day for my child?
- What time is drop off/pick up? Do you offer aftercare?
- What background or experience do the camp counselors have? (Especially important for special interest camps!)
- What kind of safety procedures or systems do you have in place in case of emergency? (Especially important for sleepaway camps!)
- What will my kids learn this summer?
- What makes this camp special? Can you share the camp mission or values?
- Does the camp offer financial aid or scholarship support?
Ready to learn more about when and where these Camp Fairs are taking place this year? Read on for the details!
New York Family’s 2024 Camp Fairs
Saturday, 1/21, 12-3pm at Industry City Building 5, 2A
The Brooklyn Family Camp Fair & Activity Expo is a day of fun activities for the whole family, where you and your kids will be the first to hear about exciting day camps, sleep-away camps, and special interest camps. All parents with children ages Pre-k to middle school are invited to hear about promotions, open houses and camp tours.
Saturday, 1/27, 12-3pm at Mamaroneck Beach + Yacht Club
The annual Westchester Family Camp fair & Activity Expo is a great opportunity to engage with numerous camps and programs. Meet camp directors and staff, gain early access to promotions, and survey your camp options this summer.
Sunday, 1/28, 12-3pm at Congregation Rodeph Sholom
The New York Family Camp Fair in Manhattan is your time to pull out that checklist and get your questions answered. Enjoying games, raffles, arts & crafts, balloon animals, and more as you weigh your camp options.
Sunday, 2/4, 12-3pm at The Culture Lab
The Queens Family Camp Fair is in full swing again, and your family is invited. Learn about the different day, sleep away and special interest camps in your local community.
Saturday, 3/2, 12-3pm at Brooklyn Public Central Library
Brooklyn families are invited to the Camp Fair to browse summer camps in 2024. Head over to the library to connect with camp counselors and directors and sign up for tours.
Sunday, 3/3 Camp Fair at Cradle of Aviation
The Long Island Family Camp Fair is the final one offered this year in New York! Mark your calendars for this event so you can find the right camp fit for your kiddos.
