Picks of the Week: July 8-14

It’s back to work after a scorcher of a long weekend. Luckily, the end of this week is jam-packed with family fests and days that we can all look forward to

Friday, July 12

MLB All-Star Fanfest: Kids Day
The Javits Center
9am-8pm
On Kids Day at the MLB All-Star Fanfest, kids can try to hit one out of the “ballpark” in a special home run derby and get autographs from league mascots and MLB All-Star Ambassador John Franco. The first 1,000 kid ticket holders to arrive at the Javits Center will also receive a Mr. Met Mini Bobblehead. Other Fanfest attractions include a video game zone, Family Field, where kids can make their own trading cards and participate in baseball training drills, and a pitcher’s mound for fans to practice throwing fastballs. Bonus: If you can’t make it to Fanfest on Friday, buy tickets for Family Day (Sunday, July 14). Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 for kids ages 12 and under, and free for children under 2.

Saturday, July 13

Come Out & Play Family Day
Governors Island
11am-4pm
The Come Out & Play Festival, which is dedicated to the playing of street games, is hosting a free Family Day on Governors Island. All games revolve around this year’s theme, time travel. Play games from the past, present, and future during this afternoon of outdoor family fun and competition! Recommended for families with kids between the ages of 6 and 11. Games will run multiple times throughout the day.

Brooklyn Hip-Hop Fest Family Day
Pier 5 Uplands in Brooklyn Bridge Park
12pm-3pm
Bring the whole family out to Brooklyn Bridge Park for a (parent-approved) Hip-Hop Fest. Before the more mature performers take the stage later in the day, the fest will host three hours of activities for the younger set. There will be live music, demos, workshops, and more. Tickets start at $20.

Sunday, July 14

Bastille Day
60th Street (between Lexington and Fifth Avenues)
12pm-5pm
Presented by the French Institute Alliance Française, Bastille Day celebrates all things French on the streets of NYC. Sample French treats like crepes and eclairs, hear live music, and shop for gifts at the many vendor stalls. At the Kids’ Corner, little ones can get their face painted, make crafts, play games, and more. Admission is free.

Saf-T-Swim

<p>For over 35 years, Saf-T-Swim Swim School has been teaching lifesaving swimming skills throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, and now Little Neck. The school is proud to be Long Island's #1 swim school and a leader in water safety education. With swim programs for infants as young as 4 months, beginners, and advanced swimmers, Saf-T-Swim offers swimming programs for every age and skill level. Discover why generations of Long Islanders have trusted Saf-T-Swim time and time again with equipping their little ones the essential skill of swimming.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

Color Me Mine

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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!</p>

Plugged in Band

<div>Plugged In is a nonprofit program that offers online programs to student&nbsp;musicians (Ages 10-18) in a non-competitive environment and provides band and individual performance opportunities in support of community and charitable causes.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Our programs include:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Rock Band Classes</div> <div>Private Music Lessons</div> <div>Summer Camp</div> <div>Digital/Audio Production</div> <div>Songwriting and Recording Workshops</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Oh and hey parents, we are now offering private music lessons and our rock band program for adults too. Reach out to us for more information.&nbsp;</div>