Weekend Planner: Fun Family Activities In NYC (May 29-31)

World Science Festival

Celebrate the sciences at the five-day World Science Festival, featuring a line-up of original programming that includes free events for families and young scientists in addition to exhibits and talks with some of the world’s leading scientists. This year, participants can check out more than 50 different events, from those commemorating the 100th anniversary of Albert Einstein’s Theory of Relativity to special youth and family offerings, such as the Flame Challenge, when scientists attempt to answer big questions in front of an audience of 11-year-olds. On Sunday, May 31, the festival will culminate with the Ultimate Science Street Fair in Washington Square Park. (Through Sunday)

Google's Geek Street Fair at Gansevoort Plaza

Google New York will host a free street fair in the Meatpacking District to highlight New York’s technology community and inspire interest in technology, math, and engineering. Fair-goers will find virtual games, robotics, and electronic tinkering. In addition, the Museum of Mathematics’ “Spacellation,” a giant collaborative structure built from coat hangers, will engage visitors as they learn how to use mathematical principles to turn household objects into pieces of art. (Thursday)

Essex Street Market 75th Birthday Block Party

Come and celebrate Essex Street Market’s 75th birthday with the world’s biggest birthday cake (75 years in the making!) and local chefs from Cafe Katja, Spur Tree and An Choi at the Essex Street Market Block Party. The party will also include live music, games and giveaways! (Saturday)

11th Annual kidsfilmfest at Made in NY Media Center

Calling all little film buffs! A program of the Brooklyn Film Festival, the 11th Annual kidsfilmfest seeks to discover and promote children’s filmmakers with a line-up of films for children of all ages (all are rated “G”), including short animation, live-action, and documentary films. The films will be followed by a Q&A and workshop with the filmmakers. To reserve tickets, email lisa@kidsfilmfest.org (Saturday)

Paper Planet at the New Vic's Duke on 42nd Street

Melbourne, Australia’s Polyglot Theatre will present “Paper Planet” at The Duke on 42nd Street beginning this Saturday. This interactive experience for ages 2 and up invites families to explore a jungle made entirely out of cardboard trees and wildlife crafted of paper. Audience members can add to the set by creating their own paper nature creations and sound effects. (Opens Saturday- June 7)

Lyka's Adventure at the Children's Museum of the Arts

A little robot with a big heart is coming to CMA for a day of storytelling, art-making, play, and learning. Children will enjoy hands-on activities–create a coral reef at the Clay Bar, make Lyka’s worldwide adventures come to life in the Animation Studio, and more– led by CMA teaching artists and LYKA’S ADVENTURE creators. LYKA’S ADVENTURE is an innovative discovery-based interactive platform that teaches 21st Century skills (communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity) while sparking imaginative play. (Saturday)

Carnegie Kids: Emily Eagen and the Whistling Wolves at Carnegie Hall

At this Carnegie Kids concert, musician Emily Eagen and members of her roots band, the Whistling Wolves, will perform a raucous program of fun, family music. Eagen, who is a two-time international whistling champion, a ukulele player, and singer who performs everything from early music to traditional Americana, will perform original songs which explore the wanderings of children’s imaginations. Audiences will be clapping and stomping along to the wild combination of sounds from instruments such as a harmonica, jaw harp, bones, and spoons. (Sunday)

The Ultimate Science Street Fair in Washington Square Park

The World Science Festival will turn Washington Square Park into an outdoor lab for a day of hands-on activities, interactive experiments, installations, and demonstrations. Meet astronauts and scientists, check out the Mars Rover obstacle course, and learn how scientists search for life on other planets. Train like an astronaut, drive a robot, build and launch rockets–this day of science will excite the whole family! Register in advance to be entered to win great prizes. (Sunday)

Adoptapalooza in Union Square Park

Looking for a new furry friend? Join the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals at Adoptapalooza, a pet adoption bonanza which features dogs, cats and rabbits looking for new homes. There will also be free demos and activities, including training and agility demonstrations, advice on pet healthcare, pet photographers, and more! This event will take place rain or shine. (Sunday)

All In: How Being an Engaged Father is Good for Business, Family, and Everyone at 92Y

New York City Dads Group co-founder Matt Schneider will interview CNN reporter and author Josh Levs about his new book, "All In: How Our Work-First Culture Fails Dads, Families, and Businesses—and How We Can Fix It Together," at the 92Y as part of the Parenting Center series on fatherhood. (Tuesday)

Outdoor Movie Calendar for Summer 2015

Outdoor movies have become an NYC summer staple–we've rounded up a bunch of great places where the family can spread a blanket and enjoy a show under the stars, nearly every night of the week!