Newsletter

With fall in full swing, it’s time to explore everything the season has to offer. As we approach Thanksgiving and December festivities, we’re bringing you the very best that Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, East New Jersey, Long Island, and Westchester have to offer for kids and families alike.

From enchanting light displays to cozy storytimes, gingerbread house workshops, outdoor holiday markets, and more, there’s something special for everyone to enjoy.. Check out these unique, family-friendly holiday events to make this season special!

Manhattan
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre: Nestled in Central Park, the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre has brought joy to audiences for decades with its imaginative and skillfully crafted marionette productions based on children’s classics. The theater offers shows throughout the year, making it a beloved destination for families to experience the magic of puppetry in a charming setting.
Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal: This model train show displays miniature New York City landmarks, enchanting visitors of all ages.
Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy at The Shed: From November 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, children and families can explore the world’s first art amusement park, featuring interactive artist-created rides and installations.

Brooklyn
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Experience a mesmerizing fall light show that transforms the garden into a magical, illuminated wonderland. Runs through January 5, 2025.
DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting: Kick off the holiday season with this festive tree lighting ceremony, featuring live music, hot cocoa, and activities for kids.
Holiday Lights at Dyker Heights: Stroll through this neighborhood to enjoy stunning displays of holiday lights and decorations, a beloved tradition perfect for families.

Queens
Holiday Parade at Queens Center Mall: On November 16, 2024, join a family-friendly holiday parade that kicks off the season with Santa and festive fun.
Winter Wonder at Queens Botanical Garden: Throughout the fall, enjoy festive decorations, nature-themed activities, and the beauty of the garden.
Tianyu Lights Festival (Flushing): Beginning November 29, 2024, this festival offers a dazzling display of large-scale lanterns and holiday lights.

Bronx
Family Events at Wave Hill: Wave Hill offers a variety of family events throughout the year, providing hands-on activities, guided nature walks, and seasonal crafts in a beautiful outdoor setting. Families can explore nature, learn about local flora and fauna, and enjoy themed workshops that bring creativity and the environment together. 
Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo: Kids can explore dazzling lanterns, lights, and displays throughout the zoo, offering a magical wildlife experience.
Family Day: Winter Wonderland at the Bronx Museum:Celebrate the season with art activities, a holiday photo backdrop, live music, StoryTime, and seasonal treats at The Bronx Museum’s Winter Wonderland. Drop-ins welcome; registration appreciated.

Staten Island
Snug Harbor Cultural Center: Snug Harbor is a wonderful spot for families and kids, offering a range of interactive and educational activities throughout the year. With themed gardens, including the colorful Children’s Garden, families can explore nature trails, spot unique plants, and enjoy hands-on garden programs. 
Historic Richmond Town: A step back in time with holiday crafts, storytelling, and a visit from Santa in a historic village setting.
Staten Island Zoo: The Staten Island Zoo is a family-friendly destination offering close-up encounters with a variety of animals, including reptiles, birds, and mammals. Known for its impressive reptile collection, the zoo also features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and seasonal events. It’s a great spot for families to learn about wildlife and enjoy a day outdoors.

New Jersey
Happy Holiday Market: On December 14, 15, 21, and 22, 2024, the market offers handmade goods, a photo booth, sweet treats, kids’ activities, and hot cocoa, perfect for a festive family outing.
Dickens Village: Step into a Christmas Carol-inspired village of houses decorated with fireplaces, stockings, and antique toys. Families can enjoy horse and wagon rides, a petting farm, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The houses remain lit through the New Year, adding extra holiday cheer to the village. More details here
Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea’s Christmas Concert (Rahway): On November 30, 2024, enjoy holiday classics performed by a full orchestra, perfect for families who love music.
The Nutcracker by New Jersey Ballet (Englewood): On December 7–8, 2024, experience a magical performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Bergen Performing Arts Center.

Westchester
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor: Experience a breathtaking display of over 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated jack o’lanterns set against the historic backdrop of Van Cortlandt Manor. This family-friendly event features synchronized lighting, an original soundtrack, and larger-than-life installations, making it a must-see fall attraction in Westchester County.
Holiday Train Show at Greenburgh Nature Center Visit Greenburgh Nature Center’s Holiday Train Show for a festive display of model trains winding through a holiday-themed landscape. Families can enjoy the seasonal decorations, interactive exhibits, and nature trails, making it a fun and educational outing.
Events at Muscoot Farm: This historic farm offers families a chance to see a variety of farm animals up close, including cows, pigs, chickens, and goats. Kids can explore the nature trails, visit the historic barns, and participate in seasonal activities like hayrides, farmers’ markets, and special educational programs. With its scenic grounds and interactive events, Muscoot Farm provides a fun, hands-on experience for all ages to enjoy a day outdoors and learn about farming and agriculture.

Long Island
Downtown BID Holiday Festival: Enjoy an afternoon filled with festive activities at the Downtown BID Holiday Festival. This family-friendly event includes holiday crafts, live music, and seasonal activities that capture the spirit of the season. It’s a perfect way for families to celebrate together in a lively downtown setting.
Huntington Holiday Market: Celebrate the season in the heart of Huntington Village! Enjoy dazzling light displays, holiday markets, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. From the community tree lighting to visits with Santa, there’s something for everyone. All events are free, making it a wonderful way to enjoy the holidays with loved ones while supporting local businesses.
59th Holiday Fine Art & Craft Fair: Explore a curated selection of handcrafted art at the Art League of Long Island’s 59th Holiday Fine Art & Craft Fair. Held at their Dix Hills art center, the fair features over 60 artists showcasing unique pieces, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and more. With free admission, visitors can meet the artists, enjoy face painting for kids, and attend intricate papercutting snowflake workshops for teens and adults. Gourmet food vendors will also be on-site.