Weekend Planner: Fun Family Activities In NYC (September 9-11)

This weekend, Cirque Du Soleil will present “Toruk: The First Flight” at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn! Based on James Cameron’s groundbreaking film “Avatar,” this live production will transport audiences to the world of Pandora where Toruk’s story unfolds. Featuring the famed artistry and talent of the acrobatic troupe with original music, this show is a must-see for the entire family. (Through Sunday)

Photo: cirquedusoleil.com

The New York Liberty women’s basketball team is ringing in the school year during their half time show at their game against the Connecticut Sun. Singer Laura Marano will take center stage to sing “Boombox” and “LaLa,” and students in the crowd will have an opportunity to participate in back-to-school activities, including school supply giveaways, contests, and more! (Friday)

Photo: liberty.wnba.com

Gather in Wagner Park this Saturday for a fishing festival! All ages are welcome to participate in catch-and-release fishing sessions led by master anglers. Visitors can learn about the Hudson River’s marine life and catch their own fish using barbless hooks. The day’s festivities will also include an arts and crafts workshop, a bird-watching class, and a special performance by the great Dan Zanes and Elizabeth Mitchell with You Are My Flower. All equipment including rods, reels, bait, and binoculars will be provided. (Saturday)

Photo: bpcparks.org

Grab your camera and your kites, and bring the whole family to this incredible kite festival! You can’t beat this view of the Manhattan skyline, and you and your little ones can even customize a kite. (Saturday)

Photo: Bob Jagendorf via Flickr

Back-to-school bikers will be in heaven at the New York Bike Jumble’s Park Slope event. Stop in for bargains on replacement parts, as well as sales on new and used bicycles! Your kids will love the exercise, and you’ll love the great deals. (Saturday)

Photo: nybikejumble.com

Celebrate the reopening of Mary Arnold Toys at its new location on the Upper East Side! The oldest, continuously operated toy store in NYC will host a day of play for all ages. There will be storytelling, balloons, glitter tattoos, a mini-portrait shoot, refreshments, and a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Clown. Neighborhood businesses such as Classic Kids Photography, Oren’s Daily Roast, and Yummy Mummy will also be donating items for a raffle! (Saturday)

There’s no better way to get into an autumn mindset than stopping by the Brooklyn Fall Festival. Complete with local food, retail vendors, homegrown artists, activities, and live performers, the whole family is sure to have a blast! (Saturday)

Photo: swbfallfest.com

Starting this Saturday, families with children ages 4 and up can see the Galli Theater’s production of “The Princess and the Pea!” This modern version of a classic fairytale will have the whole family in stitches. Watch as Prince Prince attempts to find the girl of his dreams with the caveat that she must be a princess—according to the pea test! (Saturdays and Sundays through September 25)

Photo: gallitheaterny.com

Take the grandparents to Grandparents’ Weekend at the National Museum of Mathematics! Museum admission will be free for grandparents and up to two children, and museum educators will lead visitors in an arts and crafts session that the young and the young at heart can enjoy together. (Saturday-Sunday)

Photo: momath.org

Ferragosto 2016 on Arthur Avenue is the place to be this Sunday for all things Italiano! This street fair will offer face painting for children, Italian street food, and live performances from Nick Vero, Two Gents & the Lady, and others. (Sunday)

Photo: Ferragosto 2015 via facebook.com

NYC’s fall theater schedule is packed! Your kids will surely enjoy the entertainment and family-bonding time that these theatrical shows will provide.

Photo: gallitheaterny.com