Fun Things to Do in NYC During Mid-Winter Break

Winter break is upon us as New York City public schools get ready to close for a week starting Feb. 16. In lieu of going stir crazy, why not check out one of these fun events? Many venues across town have special activities lined up for the week off of school. here are our 10 picks for what to do with kids in NYC during mid-winter break. 
 
  1. Celebrate Chinese New Year at the Museum of Chinese in America’s Lunar New Year Family Festival. There will be zodiac arts & crafts, dance performances,  snacks, and stories inspired by Chinese and Chinese American New Year’s traditions.
  2. This year the annual Kids Week at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum runs from Feb. 18-24. The theme is Science is Everywhere and kids and their parents can learn how science intersects with art, sports, games, and nature with fun, interactive exhibits, workshops, and performances. All Kids Week activities are free with museum admission.
  3. City Bakery in Chelsea is running its annual Hot Chocolate Festival, where they serve a different flavor of hot chocolate every day. Some of this month’s flavors have been Chili Pepper Hot Chocolate and Banana Peel Hot Chocolate. Upcoming flavors include Tropical Hot Chocolate and Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. Yum!
  4. NYSCI is launching Engineering Week just in time for mid-winter break. It will start with Civil Engineering Day on Monday, Feb. 19 and there will be activities and tables run by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Kids can also explore coding and robotics in special workshops.
  5. Lego Live will hit South Street Seaport from Feb. 16-18 and there will be tons of Legos to play with and cool workshops for your kids to take. It’s sure to be a brick lover’s dream!
  6. The New-York Historical Society is ready for the week off of school with a lineup of events dedicated to American Presidents. They include a Presidential Scavenger Hunt and various crafts.
  7. NYC Parks kicks into high gear with tons of educational activities for kids this week. Urban Park Rangers offers free programs during “Kids Week” and each borough offers unique events where kids can get hands-on with nature. Check the website to find an event near you
  8. New York International Children’s Film Festival will be celebrating its 21st anniversary, and will run over four weekends from Feb. 23-March 18. The films for children ages 3-18 include animated, live action, and documentary features from over a dozen countries.
  9. If you’re sad about the end of football season don’t worry, the NFL Experience in Times Square is a great way to get your football fix. Check out the immersive exhibits and the 4D theater and even route for your favorite team!
  10. If you love taking pictures, head over to Lincoln Center and check out the incredible balloon exhibit at the New York City Ballet’s lobby. The installation is breathtaking and you will walk away with some seriously Instagrammable moments.

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