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!
Psst…Check Out Three Kings Day Events Around New York City 2026
Free Family Events for the Week of 12/31-1/6
Kids Week: Campfire Story Time Join the Urban Park Rangers for a cozy campfire and story telling session. Rangers will read books and use puppets paired and visual props to make the tale come to life! Wednesday, Dec. 31, 1 – 2 pm. All ages. Van Cortlandt Nature Center, 246th Street and Broadway, Bronx
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park Yes, this takes place past bedtime, but if your kids (and you) are up for it, you’ll get to ring out 2025 and welcome 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display and live entertainment during this Brooklyn tradition. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 10 pm. All ages. Grand Army Plaza, Flatbush Ave. and Eastern Pkwy., Brooklyn
Noguchi Museum Gallery Kit Families are invited to explore Isamu Noguchi’s work and current exhibitions and get inspired to create art of their own. Friday, Jan. 2, 2 – 4 pm. All ages. The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Queens
Kids Week: Survival Skills for Kids Kids will be ready for anything when they learn about shelter building, fire making and important survival skills. Friday, Jan. 2, 1 – 2 pm. All ages. Fort Greene Park Visitor Center, Willoughby Ave. & Washington Park, Brooklyn
Swish & Skill at Faber: Free Instructional Basketball Clinic Kids are invited to improve their basketball skills at this instructional clinic designed to teach players of all skill levels the fundamentals of the game. Dribbling techniques to improve ball control, shooting fundamentals for accuracy and confidence, defensive skills to lock down opponents, teamwork and communication to play smarter, and much more will be covered. Saturday, Jan. 3, noon – 3 pm. Ages 17 and younger. Faber Park, 2175 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island
Nature’s Workshop: Natural Inks and Dyes Learn how to use dye made of natural material to create art pieces celebrating your hopes and intentions for the coming year. Sunday, Jan. 4, 1 – 2 pm. All ages. Sorrentino Recreation Center, 18-48 Cornaga Ave., Queens
Candy Twisted Balloon Show Join Candy Twisted Balloons for an interactive experience filled with laughter, captivating stories, and incredible balloon creations! Monday, Jan. 5, 4 – 5 pm. Ages 6 – 12. Long Island City Library, 37-44 21 St., Queens
Get Crafty! Paper Tube Winter Animals Get creative and craft some cozy paper scarves and earmuffs to keep the paper animals warm this winter. Monday, Jan. 5, 4 – 5 pm. Ages 5 – 12. Mariners Harbor Library, 206 South Ave., Staten Island
48th Annual Three Kings Day Parade and Celebration El Museo’s cherished Three Kings Day Parade returns to the streets of El Barrio. This year’s theme, ¡Pa’lante, Siempre Pa’lante! (“Forward, Always Forward!”), is inspired by the legacy of the Young Lords and the enduring traditions of cultural resistance and mutual care in East Harlem. The vibrant procession will feature lively music, colorful floats, majestic camels, and the joyful participation of thousands of schoolchildren and community members. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 11 am – noon. All ages. Parade begins at 106th Street and Park Ave., Manhattan
Slime Lab: A Story-Powered Science Program Kids will enjoy a fun slime-making activity paired with a short story that sparks curiosity and conversation. This hands-on program builds listening skills, vocabulary, and reading engagement while showing that learning at the library can be fun and interactive. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 4 – 5 pm. Ages 3 – 8. High Bridge Library, 78 West 168th St., Bronx
Psst…Check Out Things to Do with the Kids This Weekend in New York
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.
