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.
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.
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.
Tilt Kids Festival
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.
