Bundle up this week, and brave the arctic temps so you don’t miss out on any of our event picks. Climb the proverbial beanstalk, travel to Japan, enjoy some unique comic books, see cute critters, and/or hear some marvelous music.
Beginning Wednesday, January 14
Jack and the Beanstalk
The Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
Various times
As if Central Park isn’t magical enough, starting this Wednesday, The Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre will bring to life the classic English fairy tale “Jack and the Beanstalk.” The twist? It’s the giant who’s stealing from Jack and his mother. Find out if Jack and his friends can stop his large, thieving adversary during this one-hour show. This puppet production will run until the end of June, so there’s plenty of time for you and your family to enjoy this one-of-a-kind, enchanting experience! Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children. Runs through Friday, June 26.
Beginning Friday, January 16
Hello from Japan Exhibit
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan
10am-5pm
Visit Japan without leaving NYC! The Children’s Museum of Manhattan will unveil its newest exhibit, “Hello from Japan,” this Friday. The exhibit will focus on the country’s modern cities as well as its peaceful parks and gardens. All ages can sing karaoke, pose for pics in the photo booth, make cute mascots in Kawaii Central, and then construct bridges, explore a jungle, and make a wish at the wishing tree in Shinto Shrine Park. During the exhibit’s opening weekend (Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18), families can enjoy special activities such as manga workshops, Japanese storytelling, Japanese cuisine from chef Hideyo Yamada, and more. Free with museum admission. Exhibit runs through Sunday, May 17.
Beginning Saturday, January 17
Wild Kratts Live
The NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
11am & 3pm
Join the real-life stars of PBS’ Emmy-nominated “Wild Kratts” in a theatrical animal adventure! Martin and Chris Kratt create an authentic on-stage Wild Kratts adventure, where they learn fun and interesting facts about the animals that they encounter while trying to save the day. Tickets start at $32. Runs through Monday, January 19.
Saturday, January 17
The Third Annual Black Comic Book Festival
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
10am-7pm
Revisit the rich history of black comic book artists and their work at the 3rd Annual Black Comic Book Festival at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. This fest will feature film screenings, panel discussions, arts & crafts workshops for kids, and much more. Expect an action-packed day! This event is free, but reservations are required.
The Fresh Beat Band: Greatest Hits Live
The Theater at Madison Square Garden
12pm & 4pm
The Fresh Beat Band, the popular, Emmy-nominated TV show, will be brought to life at the Theater at Madison Square Garden this Saturday for children looking to learn the fundamentals of music. While jamming to an educational live performance, little ones will also come to understand the importance of friendship, respect, and cooperation. During this Greatest Hits show, expect to hear fan favorites such as “Here We Go,” “Bananas,” “Great Day,” and more. Tickets start at $40.
