Events: Top Kid-Friendly Activities For The Week

"The Hard Nut" will begin this Saturday at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Photo by Julieta Cervantes via bam.org. — “The Hard Nut” will begin this Saturday at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Photo by Julieta Cervantes via bam.org.

The holidays are fast approaching, so we have some wonderful events lined up to get you and the fam in the spirit! A major tree lighting, “The Nutcracker” with a twist, a cookie walk, an electrifying concert, plus a winter fair thrown in for good measure–there’s something to delight everyone in our holiday mix. Enjoy!

Tuesday, December 6

Madison Square Holiday 2016
Madison Square Park
3:30-5:30pm
Come to Madison Square Park for its annual tree lighting ceremony! The countdown will begin at 4:55pm, but be sure to stay after the tree is lit for a variety of winter wonderland activities. Your kids will love the seed packet craft activity led by Gardener Steph and live performances by the New York Life Singers and The Sweetback Sisters, as well as kiddie favorite performer Audra Rox! Neighborhood restaurants will be on-site serving a bunch of delicious holiday treats and hot drinks to keep your family warm and toasty. This event is free.

Beginning Saturday, December 10

“The Hard Nut”
Brooklyn Academy of Music
Various times
Bring your family to a unique performance of “The Nutcracker” performed by the Mark Morris Dance Group. The performance is based on E.T.A Hoffmann’s book The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and comic book art by Charles Burns. The show transplants the ballet’s action to the suburbia of the 1970s. Tchaikovsky’s score will also be performed by the 53-piece MMDG Music Ensemble. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Runs select dates through Sunday, December 18. Tickets start at $25.

Saturday, December 10

Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players
Symphony Space
11am
Join Grammy-nominated Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players for this whimsical rock show. The kids will have a blast jamming to the music and dancing together in the kiddie mosh pit! Tickets are $17.

Saturday, December 10-Sunday, December 11

8th Annual St. Nicholas Cookie Walk
St. Nicholas of Myra Orthodox Church
Saturday: 11am-4pm; Sunday: 12-3pm
Come grab some yummy holiday cookies at the 8th Annual Cookie Walk at St. Nicholas of Myra Orthodox Church. Families will be able to choose from approximately 75 varieties of homemade cookies to fill their boxes. Kids are invited to take pictures with Santa and participate in a special Little Elves workshop (for ages 10 and under) where they can make their own goodies to take home. Plus, don’t forget to check out the Walk’s holiday market, featuring gifts for all. Admission and kids’ craft are free. Cookies are available for purchase.

Sunday, December 11

Winter Family Fair
The Morgan Library & Museum
2-4:30pm
Celebrate the winter season with the Winter Family Fair at the Morgan Library & Museum, with a theme based on the classic holiday play, “A Christmas Carol.” The whole family can enjoy musicians, street vendors, craft workshops, and museum experiences. You and your child can even collaborate on a special holiday craft; the fun is never ending. Recommended for ages 3-12. Free with museum admission.

Save

British Swim School - Manhattan

The premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages, offering programs for children ages 3-months through adults.&nbsp; British Swim School uses gentle teaching methods and a survival-first approach to help people of all experience levels become safer, stronger swimmers. British Swim School&rsquo;s safe, fun, and effective instructional program has made it the preferred choice for parents and students for over 40 years. Come see the British Swim School difference!

Color Me Mine

Color Me Mine Upper West Side proudly stands as a minority woman-owned studio, and we've been an integral part of the Color Me Mine franchise system since 2018! Pottery painting isn't just an activity; it's a captivating and inclusive experience that transcends age and skill levels. At Color Me Mine Upper West Side, we extend a warm invitation to dive into a realm of creativity, self-expression, and connection. Families, friends and teams grow stronger bonds when they create memories together, and at Color Me Mine, we're here to help facilitate those moments. Whether you're seeking a delightful family outing, a unique date night, or a solo adventure, our paint-your-own-pottery studio offers boundless possibilities. Step into our welcoming space in the heart of Lincoln Center and unleash your inner artist. Create unforgettable memories as you craft beautiful ceramic masterpieces to cherish for many years to come. Color Me Mine Upper West Side is also the preferred venue for celebrations of all kinds. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a baby or bridal shower, a team-building event, a gathering for college groups, an enriching field trip, or an adventure with scouts, we've got you covered. Our versatile space and passionate team provides the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories and fostering creativity in every guest. Join us at Color Me Mine Upper West Side, at 177 Amsterdam Avenue in New York City where every visit promises a fun journey of color, joy, and artistic exploration!

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;