Hudson Yards is now open—here's what families can look forward to

Macy's annual Flower Show, which has been running for over 60 years, provdies a showcase for the world’s diverse plant life and the work of the nation’s most renowned floral designers. This year, sci-fi-inspired arrangements will evoke the other-worldly tale of Space Flight Director Lucy Ryder, who discovered Paradisios. There are a variety of events that will appeal to visitors, but kids will be especially excited about the Flower Show's Family Day with Peppa Pig (March 24 at 1pm). Expect face painting, balloon twisting and more. For a full schedule, click here. To learn how to register, click here. All ages.

You might think you've been transported to Japan thanks to Brooklyn Botanic Garden's legendary festival. Welcoming the peak of the cherry blossom season, the Japanese tradition of Sakuri Matsuri celebrates spring, the arts and the great outdoors with a slew of cultural arts and merry making. Expect performances, tea ceremonies, games and more. All ages.

We're longing for spring—warm temperatures, blue skies and, of course, flowers. Fortunately, the New York Botanical Garden is here to deliver with its annual Orchid Show. Visitors can expect a taste of Singapore right here in NYC thanks to the 2019 theme. "Singapore" celebrates the Asian "City in a Garden," and we're certainly adding it to our list of things to do. Be sure to take a look at the festival's programming, which includes an insiders tour for budding botanists, orchid care demonstrations and q&a session. Mom and Dad, if you're calling the babysitter for a night off, you might want to consider enjoying an Orchid Evening ($38) complete with cocktails, music and naturally, the beautiful display. Learn more about "The Orchid Show: Singapore" here. All ages. 

New York’s biggest block party hits town once more, offering free access to six museums (from the Met to the Museum of the City of New York) along a car-free mile sprinkled with music, art and entertainment. Kids can color up the sidewalk with chalk, get their faces painted, and enjoy performances. Stop in to enjoy amazing exhibits celebrating many different cultures and styles at El Museo Del Barrio, the Jewish Museum, Guggenheim and more. The festival runs along Fifth Avenue between 82nd St and 105th St. All ages.  

At NYC's annual Earth Day celebration in Union Square, tots (and their parents) can see live performances, participate in family-friendly DIY activities and watch as local environmentally conscious businesses put on various displays. In NYC, this event is an Earth Day tradition. All ages.

Even farm animals need a little touchup in the hair, er, fur department. At the Queens County Farm's annual sheep shearing event, families will also be able to check out shearing and wool spinning demos, enjoy crafts, local food vendors, music and much more. All ages. 

Trek out to the working farm for a country carnival held in the apple orchard at Queens County Farm. Among the festive offerings are amusement rides, midway games, hayrides, refreshments and of course, a ride in Tilt-A-Whirl. Register for the family fun online! All ages.

The Cultural Services of the French Embassy and the French Institute Alliance Francaise present an arts festival specifically targeted to youngsters. This festival combines philosophy, music, magic, design and dance through a series of programs that incorporate work from a bevy of French and global artists. This year, families can sign their crew up for Malika Zarra: Musical Journey (March 10 at 2pm, free, ages 5 and up), Philosophy for Kids (March 24 at 2pm, free, ages 6 and up) and so much more. Learn more about the offerings here. Ages 5 and up. 

This feast for the eyes (and Instagram feeds) will feature 100 hot air balloons from around the globe that take flight twice each day—a scene the whole family will certainly appreciate. You and the family can make your way nearby to the Solberg Airport in Readington, NJ (July 26–28) for the jaw-dropping display. (And yes, there's an option to ride the balloons, too.) But the balloons are but one part of this exciting festival. What better way to ring in the summer with a performance from none other than The Beach Boys? This is the perfect way to celebrate the season! Additionally, ABBA the Concert tribute band (performing July 26 at 8pm) and kids' musicians Dan Zanes and Claudia Eliaza (performing July 26 at 7:30pm) will take the stage. Families can also look forward to a lot of other exciting entertainment such as amusement park rides, food vendors, crafters and more. All ages.