Weekend Planner: Fun Family Activities in NYC (January 16-18)

Travel the world this weekend–Children’s Museum of Manhattan’s latest exhibit, “Hello from Japan!” opens on Friday, and on Sunday, the Children’s Museum of the Arts is hosting an Irish festival. Two TV favorites will perform live this weekend, too: Nick Jr.’s Fresh Beat Band plays Madison Square Garden and Wild Kratts take the stage at NYU’s Skirball Center on Saturday. Plus: celebrate Martin Luther King Day in a meaningful way with our roundup of fun and educational events.

For our Martin Luther King Day activity guide, click here.

For more of our favorite events this month, check out our 10 Great Events picks for January.

For more ideas for winter activities in (and out) of the city, see our Winter Fun Guide.

IMpossible IZpossible at BAM
Philadelphia’s Illstyle & Peace Productions are coming to BAM Kids to perform their blend of hip-hop, tap, step, and modern dance in this dance showcase celebrating the African roots of contemporary American dance. (Friday-Saturday)
Hello From Japan at CMOM
Visit Japan without leaving NYC! The Children’s Museum of Manhattan will unveil its newest exhibit, “Hello from Japan,” this Friday. All ages can sing karaoke, pose for pics in the photo booth, make cute mascots in Kawaii Central, and then construct bridges, explore a jungle, and make a wish at the wishing tree in Shinto Shrine Park. During the exhibit’s opening weekend (Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18), families can enjoy special activities such as manga workshops, Japanese storytelling, Japanese cuisine from chef Hideyo Yamada, and more. (Opens Friday)
Wild Kratts Live at NYU Skirball Center for the Performance
Join the real-life stars of PBS’ Emmy-nominated “Wild Kratts” in a theatrical animal adventure! Martin and Chris Kratt create an authentic on-stage Wild Kratts adventure, where they learn fun and interesting facts about the animals that they encounter while trying to save the day. (Saturday-Monday)
The Fresh Beat Band: Greatest Hits Live at the Theater at Madison Square Garden
The Fresh Beat Band, the popular, Emmy-nominated TV show, will be brought to life at the Theater at Madison Square Garden this Saturday for children looking to learn the fundamentals of music. While jamming to an educational live performance, little ones will also come to understand the importance of friendship, respect, and cooperation. During this Greatest Hits show, expect to hear fan favorites such as “Here We Go,” “Bananas,” “Great Day,” and more. (Saturday)
3rd Annual Black Comic Book Festival at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
Revisit the rich history of black comic book artists and their work at the 3rd Annual Black Comic Book Festival at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. This fest will feature film screenings, panel discussions, arts & crafts workshops for kids, and much more. Expect an action-packed day! (Saturday)
Irish Festival at the Children's Museum of the Arts
Celebrate Irish culture with the Children’s Museum of the Arts! CMA has partnered with the Irish Arts Center to exhibit Irish literature and folk arts, and present live music and dance performances, and hold arts and crafts workshops.(Sunday)
J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions Kids & Family Day at Grand Central Terminal
Come to Kids & Family Day at the J.P. Morgan squash Tournament of Champions, games, featuring autographs from players, matches, and free giveaways at Grand Central Terminal. Win great prizes and and catch two second round matches at each session. (Session 7: 12-2pm; Session 8: 2-4pm) (Sunday)
Tim and the Space Cadets at Symphony Space
Sprout TV host Tim Kubart and his band the Space Cadets will perform their fun and quirky songs about talent shows, superheroes, and more. (Saturday)
Everything About a Family (Almost!) at the TADA! Youth Theatre
You might be able to relate to this new musical about both how crazy and endearing families can be, written by members of TADA!’s Resident Youth Theater. (Opens Saturday)
Lynda Blackmon Lowery at the New-York Historical Society
Come hear Lynda Blackmon Lowery, the youngest participant in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march, share her experiences in the protest as recounted in her book, Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom.
Martin Luther King Day Activity Guide
Celebrate Martin Luther King Day in a meaningful way with our roundup of local events.
10 Great Events for January
Our favorite events this month, including an Audubon Winter EcoCruise, Kids’ Night on Broadway, Celebrasia NYC, and much more.
New York Family's Winter Fun Guide
Explore the winter-ful world of New York City and beyond with 40+ ideas for fun in and out of the cold, from sledding and winter carnivals to crafting and indoor games.