Contributing Writer: Elizabeth Raymond
It’s a long weekend for
most, thanks to the man that dared to dream big. We’ve scoped out some of the
MLK Jr. events that are geared towards fams, plus a really
cool SpaceFest and family-friendly fun day at the Museum of Arts and Design. —
FRIDAY
Unleash your child’s inner Project Runway at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center in Central Park
with an afternoon of nature-inspired printmaking.
FRIDAY-SUNDAY
Catch the shadow-collecting tale of Miss
Ophelia as she makes her New Victory Theater premiere in a limited
three-day run. Homespun puppetry is sure to dazzle!
SATURDAY-MONDAY
Head to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum for a MLK Jr. birthday weekend full of activities designed
to teach and inspire kids. Learn about different cultures,
tolerance and harmony with fun crafts and inspirational presentations.
SATURDAY
After learning how to play the new Ninjago LEGO game, LEGO maniacs will then
have an opportunity to battle it out with other gamers under the watchful eye
of the Scholastic Store’s own sensei.
Check out cool 3D cities inspired by The Sims. On display at the Sony Wonder Lab, talented 7th and
8th graders created these urban models as part of the Future City Competition.
The whole family will go MAD over a day designed just for them, from the
awe-inspiring works of contemporary Korean artists to an energetic dance
workshop, the Museum of Arts and Design is the place to be.
Head to the Scandinavia House’s Luminous Modernism Workshop where children can get
versed in all-things Nordic architecture. Kids will design their own buildings
to show off their newfound knowledge of the Dragon Style.
Fish that think they can fly? Prepare for an uproarious time at Symphony Space
this Saturday as Key Wilde and Mr. Clarke entertain you with their quirky and
upbeat tunes. The accompanying four-piece band is just an added bonus!
SUNDAY
The 92Y Tribeca hosts Jeremy Plays Guitar for a musical morning sure to get everyone
moving.
At the Studio Museum in Harlem, children can create portrait collages embodying who
they want to be in the New Year.
Ages 5-10 can sample dance classes in everything from salsa to ballet at The PeriChild
Program Kids Dance Fair.
Bring the whole fam to the famed Gotham Comedy Club for some hilarious
acts (by kids!) on those pesky resolutions we never end up keeping.
At the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, young citizens will brainstorm how to make a
difference in their schools and communities, just like MLK Jr. did, and create
their own Make A Difference Pledge.
For a day that is out of this world, bring the kiddos to SpaceFest at The American
Museum of Natural History. Don’t miss stargazing, storytimes and a guest appearance
by astronomer, Ted Williams.
MONDAY
Take in the sights and sounds of historic Harlem with the Big Onion Walking Tour on MLK Day. Sample some treats along
the way!
Catch a 60-minute family stage presentation on the extraordinary life
of Zora Neal Hurston at the New-York Historical Society, for ages 7 and up.
For even more events
and activities this weekend and beyond, check out our Family Calendar.
And if you haven’t already, click
here to register for our free weekly newsletter which features our favorite
events to enjoy every weekend in the city and beyond.
PHOTO CREDIT: Jocelyn Chase for MAD
