Top Kid-Friendly Activities in New York City

The Pins and Needles production of "Mr. Popper's Penguins" will begin its run at the New Victory Theater this Friday. Photo by Pins and Needles Productions via Facebook. — The Pins and Needles production of “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” will begin its run at the New Victory Theater this Friday. Photo by Pins and Needles Productions via Facebook.

Check out the panoply of cool events we have on display for your family this week. There are two poppin’ happenings; one with the some famous penguins, one with the world’s most famous nanny, as well as a kids’ fest, a Day of the Dead celebration, and Open House New York. Enjoy!

Beginning Friday, October 14

“Mr. Popper’s Penguins”
New Victory Theater
Various times
Starting this Friday, a waddle of penguins will take over the New Victory Theater during the Pins and Needles production of “Mr. Popper’s Penguins.” Based on the book by Richard and Florence Atwater, this new musical theater adaptation tells the tale of the Poppers, an ordinary couple who receive a penguin in the post and have their lives turned upside down. Recommended for ages 4 to 7. Runs weekends through Sunday, October 30. Tickets start at $25.

Saturday, October 15

Kids Fest: Stages in the Square 2016
Madison Square Park
11am-3pm
Join other NYC families in Madison Square Park this Saturday for the second annual Stages in the Square Fest! Throughout the day, three stages will feature musical and theatrical performances, workshops, and storytelling for kids ages 0 through 12 and their families. Performers scheduled to appear include Tim and the Space Cadets, The Amazing Max, Story Laurie, the Shinbone Alley Stilt Band, The Joshua Show, and others. There will also be face painting, puppet-making with the New Victory Theater, and much more. Plus, fill up on mouth-watering grub from local favorites like Gorilla Cheese NYC, Melt Bakery, Carpe Donut, and La Sonrisa Empanadas. This event is free.

Día De Los Muertos
El Museo Del Barrio
11am-5pm
Celebrate the Day of the Dead this year at El Museo Del Barrio! This annual Super Sábado event, which honors family members and friends who have passed away, includes art-making workshops, face painting for ages 12 and under, a musical procession beginning in Central Park, storytelling, and a dance performance by Mazarte Dance Company. This event is free.

Saturday, October 15-Sunday, October 16

Open House New York Weekend
Various locations throughout NYC
10am
Open House New York Weekend is back! This annual two-day event allows visitors access to hundreds of cultural sites throughout the five boroughs—including historical, contemporary, residential, and industrial sites—for tours, talks, performances, and additional special events. Family-friendly sites this year include the Museum of the City of New York, the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, the Center for Architecture, the Museum at Eldridge Street, and the New York Hall of Science. Activities for kids include scavenger hunts, special tours, arts and crafts, and more. This event is free; some activities require advance registration.

Sunday, October 16

Lin-Manuel Miranda Screens “Mary Poppins”
4pm
The United Palace
Meet actor Lin-Manuel Miranda this Sunday during a special screening of the 1964 Disney classic “Mary Poppins” at The United Palace theater. In recognition of Miranda’s generous contribution of a new DCP projection system to the Palace, and to say goodbye as he departs for London to begin shooting “Mary Poppins Returns” with Emily Blunt, audiences can enjoy a live intro to the Academy Award-winning film with the “Hamilton” creator. Tickets start at $10.

The Little Gym of Bay Ridge- Bensonhurst

At The Little Gym of Bay Ridge-Bensonhurt, we specialize in unique, educational classes that revolve around active play. We give children a safe and inspiring space to direct their energy, build confidence, and develop key skills. Explore the range of classes we offer at The Little Gym of Bay Ridge-Bensonhurst to find the one that&rsquo;s just right for your child.&nbsp;

Play On! Studios

Play On! Studios offers theater day camps and after-school classes on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a summer full of acting, music, and fun they won't soon forget! Young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up their skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games! Creative Drama Camps are perfect for kids entering grades K-4. Campers will work each week to put on a brand-new show! Each session, they will receive a script, rehearse a production, make a set and costumes, and perform their play. Kids will also play drama games, play outside (weather permitting), and have tons of fun! Musical Theater Camps are aimed at kids entering grades 4-9. In Musical Theater Performance Camp, campers put on a complete musical production in a professional NYC theater! Campers will stretch their skills with drama exercises and games, vocal coaching, field trips, and building a professional set. Our incredible teaching artists and campers come together to put on a truly remarkable show! During the school year, classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors - sing, dance, and put on a play! Whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway, we&rsquo;ve got the class for them. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays! Come play with us. &nbsp;

Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND® New York Resort

Monstrous Family fun returns with Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND&reg; New York Resort! &nbsp; The signature children&rsquo;s Halloween event kicks off October 3rd&nbsp;when the Park transforms into a bewitching party filled with candy, seasonal shows, and Halloween themed LEGO characters. The event runs on all operating dates in October, with all festivities included in general admission. Meet LEGO Monster characters like Spider Lady and Wacky Witch and make your way to the treat stations around the Park. Don&rsquo;t forget your costumes! &nbsp; New for 2024: Monster Party Nights at LEGOLAND New York Hotel! Book a Brick-or-Treat overnight package in October to enjoy extra sweet Halloween-themed fun after a day in the Park. Hotel guests will have the opportunity to eat breakfast with a Monster, participate in themed crafts and LEGO builds, rock out at the Monster Dance Party each night, and more! &nbsp; AWESOME AWAITS at LEGOLAND&reg; New York Resort, the ultimate LEGO&reg; theme park destination, for kids ages two through twelve and their families. Ride, climb, and build your way through seven LEGO themed lands. &nbsp;