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!
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Free Family Events for the Week of 1/7-1/13
Huguenot Park Pokémon Trainer Academy Learn how to play the Pokémon trading card game with Professor LuLo. Go over the mechanics of such things as how to understand the Pokémon card and the power that’s inside! Please feel free to bring cards to modify the available decks. Wednesdays, 3 – 4:30 pm, through Jan. 28. Ages 6 – 12. Advanced registration required. Huguenot Park Library, 830 Huguenot Avenue, Staten Island
Open Hours at Environmental Education Center Get to know Brooklyn Bridge Park with a 250 gallon aquarium filled with critters from the East River, a 10’ scale model of Brooklyn Bridge Park, crafts, a reading corner, and much more. Jan. 8, Thursdays and Fridays, 3 – 5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 1 – 5 pm, through Jan. 30. All ages. Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy Environmental Education Center, 99 Plymouth St., Brooklyn
Chess with Vladimir Mazo Embark on a captivating journey into the world of chess and learn from a true chess master! Be part of an incredible journey filled with excitement, strategy, and camaraderie. Jan. 8, Thursdays, 4 – 5 pm, through Feb. 5. Ages 5 – 12. Brooklyn Public Library Sheepshead Bay, 2636 E. 14th St. at Ave. Z, Brooklyn
Robots and Amazing Art Creations Join inventor and maker Steven Hanania for an interactive STEM workshop that includes, playing with robots, the virtual space rocket ride, an earthquake demonstration, plus amazing robotic art creations to take home. Friday, Jan. 9, 3:30 pm. Ages 6 – 11. Queens Library at Whitestone, 151-10 14th Ave., Queens
Balloon Bending Bonanza Take part in this interactive class for beginners where kids will learn the basics of balloon artistry. They’ll inflate balloons, tie them, learn techniques, and more. Balloons and pumps will be provided. Friday, Jan. 9, 3 – 4 pm. Ages 6 – 12. Advanced registration required. Huguenot Park Library, 830 Huguenot Ave., Staten Island
Harlem Charter School Fair & Kids Activity Expo Join this fun-filled day of exploring educational options in the community! The Harlem Charter School Fair & Kids Activity Expo, hosted by New York Family & amNY, is where charter school representatives, afterschool programs, community and family resources come together under one roof! Learn about Harlem Charter Schools, ask questions, and even complete same-day applications. Plus fun activities for the family including games, activities, and giveaways. Saturday, Jan. 10, noon – 3 pm. All ages. Advanced registration required. The Gerry Clubhouse, 321 East 111th St., Manhattan
Family Time January 2026 Art-Making for All Ages Join Bronx Museum Educators for an afternoon of art-making inspired by artist Reverend Joyce McDonald’s clay sculptures in the exhibition Ministry. Saturday, Jan. 10, 1 – 3 pm. All ages. The Bronx Museum, 1040 Grand Concourse, Bronx
Girl’s Winter Softball Clinics It may not be softball season yet, but this weekly clinic invites girls to prepare for spring by hitting, throwing, and catching throughout the winter. Sundays, Jan. 11 through March 29, Sundays, 9:30 am – noon for ages 6 – 12 and 11:30 am – 2:30 pm for ages 13 – 17. Al Oerter Recreation Center, 131-40 Fowler Ave., Queens
After School Art Explorers: Drop-In Programs Children are invited to explore and create during these drop-in Tuesday afternoon sessions. Inspired by artworks on view, families will encounter different art-making activities, such as printmaking, mixed-media collages, or sculptural projects. Tuesdays, Jan. 13 and 27, 2:30 – 4:30 pm. Ages 4 – 12. The Jewish Museum, 1109 5th Ave., Manhattan
KidsLIVE with Kaz Windness Join the Library for a very special author talk with Kaz Windness to discuss one of her new books, Squid in Pants. There will be a Q&A followed by a fun activity! Tuesday, Jan. 13, 3:30 – 4:30 pm. Ages 5 and older. Grand Concourse Library, 155 East 173rd St., Bronx
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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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
