Impatient for warmer, sunnier weather? We are too. That’s why we’ve rounded up a handful of really spectacular things to do with kids before spring even gets here. You can say goodbye to cabin fever right here and now—why wait for March 20, the official first day of spring?
1. Central Park Conservancy Ice Festival (Sat, Feb 11)
Check out the park's sixth-annual ice festival to see professional ice-carvers at work! See dazzling demos and attend a silent disco during your visit.
2. Go "camping" at "Wilderness Skills" (Sat, Sun Feb 4–26)
While the exhibit is open for quite a bit, there are eight dates that will offer an accompanying workshop (included in museum admission). Try your hand at tie-dye, creating a DIY compass or learning useful knot-tying skills.
3. Catch a flick with Film Forum Jr. (Sundays, Feb 12–19)
See family favorites like Lassie Come Home, Planet of the Apes or The Witches in this series' remaining screenings.
4. Rock out with Gustafer Yellowgold (Sat, Feb 25)
Go on an unforgettable adventure through the woods with the help of actors/musicians, props, onscreen animation and storytelling.
5. Warm up with the butterflies at "Butterflies Alive in Winter" (Through May)
AMNH plays host to this unique, live butterfly exhibit that will enchant children of all ages. Enter a greenhouse-like atmosphere to get a close look at the cool critters and learn about their life cycles.
6. See Puss in Boots as told by puppets (Various dates and times)
Join Puppetworks for a rendition of Puss in Boots, which includes marionettes!
7. Celebrate mid-winter break in Prospect Park with "Wild in Winter" (Feb 20–24)
Head to Prospect Park's Audubon Center and the Lefferts Historic House to take part in a nature exploration, go on a bird count and try historic games.
8. Check out Brookfield Place's Saturday Morning Show (Saturdays, Feb 11–March 25)
This free event offers great entertainment for families, including juggling and magic shows, live music and educational activities.
9. "Meet" classical greats through Little Orchestra Society's LOS Kids programming (Sat, Sun Feb 11, 12; March 4, 5)
This musical adventure comes packed with plenty of stellar classical music (and a dash of drama thanks to actors in costume).
10. Visit Neverland with The Peter Pan Experience (Sat, Sun March 18–26).
Special effects, storytelling and vibrant music bring the magical story of Peter Pan to life starting March 18.