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 International Children's Film Festival
This film fest for kiddos showcases approximately 100 features and shorts from around the globe and rounds out the experience with retrospectives, interactive workshops and filmmaker Q&As for families. This year, don’t miss the opening night with the premiere of The Boy Who Harness The Wind, cartoons such as Gordon & Patty, Heebie Jeebie Shorts, special talks about the future of virtual reality and so much more. Though a jury determines which director takes home the grand prize and other esteemed awards, young audience members can cast their votes in various categories. There are various times and locations. Please check the website for a complete lineup. Ages 3–18.
LC Kids
Every year Lincoln Center presents a phenomenal lineup of programming for kids of all ages. This years, wee ones (ages 0–18 months) can explore their surroundings with Rain, a sensory performance that includes touch and music, while slightly older babies (ages 6 months-36 months) can join a friendly environment for creative exploration with Pulsar. Highlights for big kids include Is this a Dagger? The Story of Macbeth (ages 8 and up), a retelling of the classic tale by a Scottish storyteller; You Me and the Space Between (ages 6 to 12), a performance about an inventive child that utilizes storytelling and choreography; Soundtrack '63 (ages 12 and up), a multimedia musical experience about music's relationship to social justice. A number of shows offer relaxed performances for neurodiverse audiences. Visit here for more details.
The Orchid Show
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.
