Things to Do
Things to do with kids in New York, including events this week, free things to do, fairs and festivals, story time, theater for kids, and kids' entertainment
Things to do in New York
The best things to do in New York with kids
Upcoming NYC events and festivals for kids
Big Apple Circus
After declaring bankruptcy in 2016 to widespread lamentations, the family-friendly circus came bouncing back to life at Lincoln Center last year, and now returns for its 41st season with a show that aim to throw some spotlights on women. New ringmaster Stephanie Monseu presides over a spectacle that includes a trapeze routine by the Flying Tunizianis, a trampoline act created by Andréanne Quintal, and an acrobatic duet, performed by Virginia Tuells and Ihosvanys Perez, in which she does most of the heavy lifting.
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
All aboard! One of NYC's most beloved traditions is making its way back into town. The New York Botanical Garden promises another year of fantastic displays during its annual holiday train show, this time spotlighting Lower Manhattan. Get a glimpse of trains zipping through pint-sized downtown attractions—One World Trade Center, Battery Maritime Building—while enjoying festive decorations in one of the city's most beloved green spaces. In addition to the display itself, the Holiday Train Show also offers the opportunity for fun programming—arts and crafts for kids, Bar Car Nights for mom and dad and other festive happenings. Get your tickets ASAP—this event is likely to sell out quickly. All ages.
Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend at CMOM
At this celebration, the museum will host activities that honor the life and mission of Martin Luther King Jr. Kids will celebrate King’s memory by creating a mosaic of his portrait (Saturday–Monday, noon–1:45pm) and attending a (ticketed) performance from the Harlem Gospel Choir (Jan 19 at 3pm). All ages.
Winter Jam 2019
Amid the messy streets and cold temps, we may sometimes forget that winter in New York is supposed to be awesome. (Seriously.) The Parks Department reminds us why we should love the colder months thanks to Winter Jam, its annual winter sports festival in Central Park. Families can learn or take part in snowshoeing, skiing and sledding. Bring your own snow sports gear or borrow the equipment on load at no cost, then while away the hours sipping hot chocolate and enjoying the outdoors during this ultimate snow day. The rain date for the 2019 event is Feb 2. Enter the park at 72nd St, as the festivities will take place in the Bandshell area. All ages.
