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This is the dizzying time of year. Each one of us feels pulled in so many directions: family obligations, shopping to do, parties to go to and then there are all these incredible events to take advantage of! But this is why we live in New York! I wish I could go to events day and night- but my kids would never last- and my husband would take away my Metro card. So, we pick and choose. These are some of the ones I would choose:

• Train Show with Laser light show and Gift Market (all free) at Grand Central and then walk 6 blocks to the Lionel pop-up store train show (and see the windows along the way)
• Chestnuts Roasting on the Flaming Idiots (vaudeville at its best and tix start at $17)
• Santa Claus at ABC Carpet and Home (free)
• Holiday Windows on 5th Ave and Madison (free)
• Get your photo taken with the special 20 x 24 Polaroid camera in Tribeca (there are only 6 of these cameras in the world)- and see Santa storytime
• See Buster Keaton’s famous silent films at Tribeca Family Film Festival
• Check out one of the dozen holiday craft fairs going on- in Brooklyn and Manhattan (most free)
• Free music and dance demos (free)
• French and Spanish Childrens’ Book Fair (and games, DVD’s and CD’s) (free)

P.S. I will be at the Bloggers Toy Swap and Drive and hope to see many of you there- I can’t wait to meet your families!

Dec. 3rd at 6 pm: Dumbo Tree Lighting
The DUMBO Improvement District is lighting their tree in the Archway under the Manhattan Bridge. Free refreshments and food by Choice Market, Front Street Pizza & Jacques Torres (yum!). Half Pint Citizens will be open until 8:30 that night with treats and an extra 20% off your purchase that night, just say ‘I love DUMBO!’ at checkout. For more info go to Half Pints site.

December 3 at 6:00 p.m: Belarusian Church Tree Lighting
This annual tree lighting ceremony is free and open to the public with complimentary holiday treats provided by local Atlantic Avenue restaurants and shops. Atlantic Avenue’s annual tree lighting ceremony and activities will feature students from P.S. 38 and 261 who will lead guests with carols and performances. The up and coming children’s musical group, Rolie Polie Guacamole, will be a fun element as Santa Claus makes his appearance to participate in the festivities, greet children and receive their Dear Santa letters. Atlantic Avenue windows will be decked out too and the winner of the competition will be announced that evening. The Church is at: 401 Atlantic Ave at Bond Street in Boerum Hill.

Friday, December 4 – January 3: The Flaming Idiots in the new Chestnuts Roasting on The Flaming Idiots
The New Victory seems to have a knack for getting great acts. Though I haven’t seen The Flaming Idiots in person- I have seen their video. They are hilarious and foolish and just entertaining. They are doing their usual vaudeville, juggling, comedy and generally exhibiting their goofy, good-natured. Tickets $17 – average price. You can get tickets at 646-223-3010 or online at NewVictory.org. The New Victory Theater is at: 209 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10036

Friday, December 4^th from 9am to 5pm, and Saturday, December 5^th from 10am to 2pm : Grace Church School Holiday Book and Toy Fair
The Annual Children’s Book and Toy Fair at Grace Church School in Brooklyn Heights is a good place to start your holiday shopping. They will have a selection of new books and toys for children of all ages, as well as parenting and cookbooks. You can also shop at “Hope’s Attic” – a popular section featuring quality, gently-used books. Grace Church School, 254 Hicks Street, Brooklyn Heights at 718 624 4030

Saturday, December 5 from 12 pm- 7 pm: Night Owl Art and Craft Fair
Artists will be selling all their handcrafted items at this bar (ooh- drink and shop!). They also have foosball and Skiball (what’s that?)- so hopefully that can occupy some of the children. They will have spiced cider and drink specials too. The Night Owl at 170 N. 4th St. Brooklyn, NY 11211 between Bedford and Driggs. 3 blocks from the Bedford L and close to the Lorimer G stop.

Saturday, December 5 from 11:30 am- 1 pm: Holiday Cookie Making
This is a nicely priced event: for $5 per child, you can learn to make holiday cookies at the Moxie Spot with Jane Z of Kids Cook. Suggestion: start off with a late breakfast of pancakes at the Moxie Spot, play upstairs in their playspace and then go to the class. If you have a younger child who can’t participate, the playspace is a good place for the baby and another grownup. Visit their website for more information and links for sign up. The Moxie Spot is at 81 Atlantic Avenue (a Hicks Street) Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-923-9710

Saturday, December 5 from 10am- 7 pm and Sunday, December 6 from 11 am- 5 pm : 20 x 24 Polaroid, Santa, Storytime, Ornament making and more!
This is a really cool event. Two great stores (Jade’s ToyBox and Zaba.com) have opened a pop-up store with toys, clothes and activities. Portion of proceeds will to to childrens’ charities. Do you know what the 20 x 24 Polaroid camera is? It is one of the coolest cameras in existence. There are only 6 in the world. It creates instant large photos and you can get yours taken! There will also a sponsored storytime- donate $20 and bring in your favorite book (or choose a story) and special guest will read to you- including Santa. Afterwards you can stay and do a craft activity. There will be “parents-only” pop-up holiday card, book and ornament making. Santa will be on hand for free photos (bring your own camera) and sit down with your to and write a letter to Santa that will be mailed to the North Pole. There is more- but I don’t have enough space! Visit the pop-up store at: 25 North Moore Street at Varick Street in TriBeCa. The store is open through Christmas Eve weekdays and Saturdays from 10 am -7 pm, Sundays from 11 am -5 pm, with special hours on Christmas Eve. Check Jade’s ToyBox.com and Zaba.com for more information and weekly special events.

December 5 from 9:30 am-5 pm: “Eat Pie and Shop”
Looking for a good bite of pie with your holiday shopping? And maybe a movie too? For a $5 tasting ticket, you can sample two pieces of pie at the Holiday Gift Fair and Pie Social (www.eatpieandshop.org) Bakers are also invited to bring pies, and a friendly (!) competition will begin at 9:30 a.m. The Gift Fair will highlight local artisans, craftspeople and merchants. And while you shop, Rooftop Films will show a selection of independent short films for kids at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. Tickets to the movies are $2. In addition, children can make free holiday crafts – perhaps an ornament or a frame as a present for Mom and Dad. 425 Henry Street, between Baltic and Kane Street

December 5 from 10:00 and 11:00 am: How To Meet A Dog – Family Workshop
I think this is a smart idea for kids who are a little shy around dogs- or have had an incident with a dog. Canine behavior expert Renee Payne joins ArtsCetera’s Nanette de Cillis to demonstrate the basics of dog safety in a child-friendly interactive format. Music, puppets and play create an imaginary dog soiree where children are guided through saying hello with confidence. Tickets $35 per family. ArtCetera at 212 Smith Street, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn – 2 blocks from Bergen Street G 718.643.6817

Saturday, December 5 from 2-6pm and Sunday, December 6 from 12-4pm : Hip Santa is coming
Still Hip does these cute shots of your tykes with Santa. Last year we had fun with it- though a convincing Santa she was not. My 4 month old didn’t know the difference of course. It was an easy neighborhood Santa sighting and we got a photo within a few minutes. $10 a shot. Still Hip Brooklyn: 83 Grand Ave (at Lafayette) in Clinton Hill. 718-398-0008

Saturday, December 5 from 11 am- 3 pm: French and Spanish Childrens’ Book Fair
This is a great time to buy those Spanish and French books, magazines, games, CDs and DVD’s for children ages 0-10 years. All of the items are hand-picked by the International School of Brooklyn staff and parents. Besides shopping, you can participate in storytime, Bija Kids Yoga, Spanish and French playgroup, storytime and eat and drink at outpost of local favorite Choice Market (salads, quiches and baked goods). Highly recommended event! The event won’t be at ISB, but at John Jay High School at 237 7th Ave in Park Slope.

Saturday, December 5 from 10:30 am on….: Tribeca Family Film Festival
There is a brand new youth screening series programmed by the Tribeca Film festival team –which means it is bound to be good! It is called the Tribeca Cinemas Kids Club. The Club will feature a lineup of classics, both feature length and short films, appropriate for all ages accompanied by an enriching activity tied to the film for kids and adults to enjoy, including question and answer sessions, arts and crafts, and live music – and only healthy snacks will be served! Morning screenings are geared towards a younger audience (3+) and afternoon screenings for slightly older children (7+). Tickets for children under the age of 14 are $7 for a single screening and $12 for the double-feature. Tickets for adults (ages 14 and over) are $10 for a single screening and $18 for the double-feature. Tix are available for purchase in advance at www.tribecafilm.com/kidsclub or on the day of event, between 9am and 2pm, at the Tribeca Cinemas Box Office, 54 Varick Street. (For day of tickets, it is advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of screening to avoid sell outs.) 10:30am – A special selection of shorts written, directed and starring Buster Keaton: THE PLAY HOUSE (1921) and THE ELECTRIC HOUSE, co-directed by Edward F. Cline (1922). In the hilarious THE PLAY HOUSE, Keaton plays everyone in a theatre simultaneously (through multiple exposures). THE ELECTRIC HOUSE is described as one of Keaton’s best shorts. 1:30pm – THE GENERAL (1926) Written and directed by Buster Keaton and Clyde Bruckman, THE GENERAL is regarded by some as the greatest of all silent comedies and was Keaton’s own personal favorite. Raiload engineer Buster Keaton is rejected by the Confederate Army and by his sweetheart, Annabelle (Marion Mack). But when Northern spies kidnap both Annabelle and The General (his beloved train engine), it sets in motion cinema’s most perfectly structured comic epic. Keaton gave this movie his all and without stunt doubles executes some of the most breathtaking stunts and ingenious gags ever put on film.

Saturday December 5th from 3-5 pm and Sunday, December 6th from 10am- 12 pm: Bloggers Holiday Toy Swap and Drive (WE ARE TAKING WAITING LIST ONLY NOW- SORRY)
A Child Grows in Brooklyn is teaming up with Mommy Poppins to host two great events- and we hope you can come! The holidays are fast approaching and now is a great time to clean out toy boxes and unused toys and swap them for another. It’s a great opportunity to encourage your kids to think about giving and recycling! The event is free but we are asking that you bring a new, unwrapped toy for our Holiday Toy Drive. Those (and all unclaimed swapped toys) will be donated to charity. Saturday, December 5: 3-5 pm—–Kidville, 808 Union St at 7th Ave (Park Slope) Sunday, December 6, 10 am- 12 pm—–Kidville, 466 Columbus Ave (btw. 82nd and 83rd) (Upper West Side) Kidville will provide children’s activities and free open gym time. Enjoy healthy snacks from our favorites….Susie’s Supper Club and Fresh Direct. Space is limited (and we expect a big turnout), so please RSVP and those who do so first will win an item from our swag table: video games, dvds, cds, toys, books and more.

Saturday December 5th at 12 and 2 pm: The Will Shaw Fun and Funny Juggling Show
If you like the silent film era comedians who juggled, balanced, danced and entertained in yesteryear, the Will Shaw is the one-man act for you and your children. Juggling, hat tricks, music, balance tricks, sight gags, cowboy rope spinning, boomerangs, spinning tops, audience participation and offbeat but sophisticated clowning. $10/ea or $30/four The Brooklyn Lyceum at 227 4th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 857-4816 www.brooklynlyceum.com

Saturday December 5 from 10-11:30 am: Only Child Parenting Talk
This is a hot topic among my friends. What would it be like to have just one child? Is it okay for them- for the kids? Will the kids have that “only child” syndrome, what will happen to them when the parents are old? This blog’s Parent Coach, Alice Kaltman has a good perspective on all this, (Disclosure: she has an only child) , but she also always presents a realistic, practical perspective. The cost is $10 dollars per participant. Space is limited, and you have to e-mail or call to reserve a space and get location directions. info@familymattersny.com

Sunday, December 6th from 2-5 pm: Charles Dickens and Jane Austen come to life
The Morgan’s annual family day celebrates the A Woman’s Wit: Jane Austen’s Life and Legacy and Charles Dickens’s Christmas Carol exhibitions. Families are invited to travel back to the days of the English Regency (art workshops bring Jane Austen’s fashion sense to life) and Victorian London (meet Charles Dickens and his famous characters through the original play, Goblins, Ghosts, and Geezers: The Making of Scrooge, at 2:30pm & 4pm; tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis). A complete schedule of events is available online. For ages 6-12 year. The Morgan Library and Museum 225 Madison Avenue New York, NY (listing courtesy of Parentsconnect.com- thanks guys!)http://www.themorgan.org

Sunday, December 6th from 11 am- 4pm: Brooklyn Waldorf School Winter Fair
This school is located near BAM. I have gone for 2 years and really liked it. They had great kids’ activities, nice handmade crafts and wooden toys and really good raffle prizes. There will be a puppet show, an outdoor maze, a crystal cave, forturne-telling, face-painting, etc. New this year, our Fair will include an outdoor Winter Market, featuring a variety of local vendors, from textile arts to children’s clothing. Plus, the pocket fairy will be making rounds with special surprises for the children! (The pocket fairy is a pretty cool invention. A grownup walks around with an enormous coat. When he opens it up to reveal lots of pockets from which a child can choose a trinket. Located at 126 St. Felix Street btw. Hanson and Lafayette. More information is at their site.

Sunday, December 6th from 10 am- 8 pm: Bust Holiday
One of my favorite blogs: brooklynbased.net recommended this event- so I am going to go by their word. “Head into the city this Sunday Dec. 6 for the Bust Holiday Craftacular and find hot handmade bags, jewelry, prints and clothes from 200+ vendors (many of them BK-based!). First 500 get a free goodie bag! 10am-8pm, Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St.”

Sunday, December 6th from 11 am- 4pm: Studio School’s Holiday Craft Fair
For you: shop handcrafted art and gifts by parents & local artisans and buy your decorations for the holiday season For the kids: Arts and crafts, face painting, and story telling area to keep kids entertained. For all: warm soups, hot drinks and baked goods. Free admission. 330 18th Street (btwn. 6th Ave. & 7th Ave.) Brooklyn, NY 11215 Closest subways: R/M to Prospect Avenue, F to 15th St.- Prospect Park

Sunday, December 6th from 10 am- 1 pm: Let’s Dance Brooklyn free demos
I do like Let’s Dance Brooklyn (as a veteran of 3 semesters and soon to be 4th)- and think this is a good time to try the classes out for free if you have an inkling your kid might like to move and groove.10:30am Parent and Child Dance (ages walking-3 years)
11:15am Creative Ballet (ages 3.5-7 years) Register for classes anytime between 10am-1pm. South Oxford Space, 138 S. Oxford St., Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Register here.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Nov. 13-December 30, 2009)
This is the first year that I took Birch (3.5 years) to this show. I was pretty sure he could stick it out for the full 1.5 hours since he can sit through the movie “Cars” a few dozen times. My friend brought her 20 month old daughter. She, like Birch, was riveted. (After an hour though, her mom took the girl home for bedtime, but the kid definitely put up a fight.) You can’t underestimate the dazzle effect on a child. The lobby of Rockefeller Center is stunning with lit trees, ornamental chandeliers and the friendliest staff you have ever met. I felt like each usher was thrilled that we were there. The theater itself is beautiful and huge. The orchestra was lifted up on a lighted stage as they opened the curtains. Birch nearly fell off of his chair. But when the Rockettes came out in their reindeer outfits and Santa too- he couldn’t move. How can you not be taken with all those gams kicking at the same level, the sleek costumes and live music? This show is squarely centered in the 21^st century now: the digital backdrops are spectacular as they switch from grand manor to the streets of New York City. Birch hasn’t stopped talking about the bus moving through the (digital) streets of New York. He thought we were traveling too. And we were in a way: we were totally entertained. Yes, the show is somewhat nostalgic and sentimental, and a bit kitschy at times, but it is rich in entertainment, excellent choreography ( I always love that Tin Solider piece) and thrill. Now thru Sunday, December 6th our readers can get Orchestra tickets starting at $49.99 This offer is valid for 32 performances of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular playing between now and December 13 at the legendary Radio City Music Hall. Use code NOV when purchasing tickets http://www.radiocity.com/events/christmas-spectacular-2009.html

Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting (Dec. 2^nd- Jan. 7th)
This is granddaddy of all the trees. It is huge, crowded and a must-see. The soldiers and lights that surround the tree area are stunning. It’s fun to see the skaters whirl around the ice and see all the tourists thrilled to be there. Last year I went around 11 pm and it wasn’t as crowded as normal. The tree will be lit daily from 5:30 A.M.-11:30 P.M.; all day on Christmas (24 hours); and from 5:30 A.M.-9 P.M. on New Year’s Eve. 5th Ave between 49th and 50th Streets. F to Rockefeller Center.

Peace Tree at Cathedral of St. John the Divine (December 8^th or 9th- January 7^th or 8th)
This tree is decorated with over 1000 paper cranes and other signs of peace. There is an advent procession on Dec. 6^th with the choir of boys, girls and adults singing carols. 1047 Amsterdam Avenue (at 110^th Street). http://www.stjohndivine.org

Borough Hall Christmas Tree and Menorah (tree-Dec. 8th at 5:30 pm – January 7th……and menorah to be announced)
The Borough President (once again, it’s Marty Markowitz….sigh) will light the tree on December 8th at 5:30 pm. The third week the Hanukah menorah is lit, (timing TBA). Borough Hall is located on 209 Joralemon Street in Brooklyn. You can take the A, C, or F train to Jay Street; Borough Hall is three blocks west from there. Or, you can take the R train to Court Street.

Wintuk from Cirque du Soleil (Nov. 11- January 3, 2010)
Wintuk is from the famous Cirque du Soleil, so you know you can expect incredible acrobatics, comedic moments, spectacular costumes and a light plot. That is all true with Wintuk which is geared towards families. The plot is about a boy looking for snow. The storyline gives the troupe plenty of opportunities to create a top-notch winter wonderland. Birch (aged 3.5 years) was blown away by the production and the stage setup with rollerbladers, skaters and a full town. The show was 2 hours with a 20 minute intermission. The length turned out to be fine actually as Birch was engaged for the full 2 hours. Wintuk is less jam-packed than other Cirque du Soleils productions I have seen, and with good reason. Kids can only take so much. What went over well with them: the huge floppy dog, the cyclists, the explosions of snow, the acrobatics and thrilling choreography. It was definitely a great show. If you want to go, we have a 30% discount for childrens’ tickets for you. Just click here. There are also several Wintuk videos on their You Tube channel. The production is at the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Tickets start at $40.

The Three Bears Holiday Bash (November 17, 2009 – January 3, 2010)
The Three Bears Holiday Bash is a variety show that celebrates the holiday season in song, dance, and puppetry. This production quickly becomes a comedy of errors when Baby Bear invites Santa to star in Mama and Papa Bears’ annual holiday show. Drawing from the stories of Hanukkah, the Night Before Christmas, and Kwanzaa, The Three Bears Holiday Bash includes all those celebrating the holidays. Show times for The Three Bears Holiday Bash are: Tuesday through Friday: 10:30am and 12:00pm, with an additional performance at 2:30pm each Wednesday; and Saturday and Sunday at 1:00pm. **Please call for extended holiday schedule** please call (212) 988-9093. Tickets are $5/children and $8/adults. The Cottage is located in Central Park at 81th Street and Central Park West, just south of the Delacorte Theater.

Wollman Rink in Prospect Park (November 26 – March 14, 2010)
Last year, I finally made it to this rink on closing day. Talk about procrastination! It is a fine rink for teaching small children, but don’t expect to do any jumping or fast skating here. It is small and crowded but pretty gentle for the little ones. We even made a few friends while we were there. The lockers are free but bring your own padlock. The skate rentals were easy and the personnel were pleasant. Check hours on the site. Every Friday: ½ Price Admission! (does not include skate rental charge, holidays excluded). Adults: $5 (ages 15 and up) and Children (ages 14 and under) and Seniors: $3. Skate Rental: $6.50 (tax included). For more info like hours go to their site.
To find out where to buy used and new skates locally- check our post here.

The Market and Pond and Carousel at Bryant Park (Nov. 6^th- January 24^th, 2010)
You can start off some exercise with a few light steps to the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park. This market has over 100 boutiques, artisans and designers and food merchants. For more information, visit www.TheHolidayShopsatBryantPark.com. After a few looks, head over the The Pond, a 170’ 100’ rink that has FREE ice skating, skating shows, snacks or a dinner. There are free lockers for your new gifts, but bring your own padlock. If you need your skates resharpened or a pair to rent, you can do that easily in the Skating Pavillion. http://bryantpark.org/amenities/thepond.php. Take the F, V, B, or D train to 42nd Street/Bryant Park

Grand Central Holiday Train Show, Market and Light Show
This free train show is especially fun as it takes place in a real train station: Grand Central. You can see the train go from New York to the North Pole. It all takes place in the New York City Transit Museum Annex. (November 25th – January 18th). This is free, easy and, in general, no lines. It is totally worth it. The New York Transit Museum’s Gallery Annex is open Monday – Friday 8 AM to 8 PM and Saturday & Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. For additional information call (718) 694-1600 or log onto www.mta.info/museum. Don’t forget to check out the holiday market in Vanderbilt Hall too. Grand Central Holiday Fair (Nov. 23^rd- Dec. 24^th) This is a holiday fair that is on a lot of people’s lists. They have quality high-end vendors in the classy Vanderbilt Hall. The Holiday Fair hours are: Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. For more info: go to their site: www.grandcentralterminal.com. While you are there, check out the light show at Grand Central Terminal too. Images of winter wonderland are projected on the famous Astrological Ceiling in the main concourse. The Holiday Laser Light Show (not shown since 2005) is back this year. A series of six (6) individual six minute shows will be presented every half hour, between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM, over the course of six weeks- through Dec. 31st. 42nd St between Vanderbilt and Lexington.

Lionel Train Store’s Sales and Train Display: Ongoing
Okay, so this is a store’s train display, but it should be good. This is Lionel Trains first store ever. Ever. You can imagine the afficiandos that will be anxious to get in there. The store has operating trains whizzing through the store along with a Christmas tree to get you in the spirit. Don’t forget to get a Magnolia Bakery cupcake while you are nearby. They are the best! The Black Friday sale: All sets, engines and rolling stock made by Lionel will be 20% off !The Lionel Store is at 30 Rockefeller Plaza- 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue

South Street Seaport Tree, Chorus, Santa and Shopping (Friday, Nov. 27th – Dec. 27th)
This beautiful tree adorned with bows and thousands of tiny lights feels quaint on the cobblestoned Water Street. The tree lighting this year was sweet and fun- although the site lines for kids and parents alike was pretty mediocre. The Big Apple Chorus (who is wonderful) performs classic holiday songs, including their jovial rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through December 27. Please click here to view the Big Apple Chorus’s performance schedule. Santa is also at the Seaport to hear kids’ wish lists, take photos and be jolly. He makes scheduled appearances in the holiday seating area located on the 3rd floor of Pier 17, Noon to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; and Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Santa’s visits run from November 28 to – December 24. All visits with Santa are free, but bring your own camera. He also appears at each performance of The Big Apple Chorus. In addition, each Saturday and Sunday from November 28 through December 20 at 1 p.m., there is “Storytime with Santa,” as he reads holiday classics, including ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Pier 17, 3rd Floor/Cobblestones/Strolling. There are some big box shops down at the Seaport too- so you can get your shopping in. The public restrooms are plentiful and nice and the whole area has a nice holiday feel. Fulton Street and South Street. www.Southstreetseaport.com By Subway
2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, or M to Fulton Street
A or C trains to Broadway-Nassau;
or E train towards Fulton Street.
Walk East on Fulton Street to Water Street.

Holiday Train Show with Gingerbread Adventures (November 21, 2009 – January 10, 2010)
This holiday favorite at the New York Botanical Gardens is superb- if you don’t have a long line wait. The train display is the conservatory and it is wonderful to see the train dip in and out of plant beds, whizz overhead on wood tracks and speed by the Statue of Liberty. The entire display is made out of natural materials. What you should know: the gardens make you check your stroller outside the building. You walk in and wait in a long line that eventually winds it way into the conservatory. As you make your way through the building, you get progressively warmer and there is no place to put your coats- let alone your childrens’ coats, bottles, snacks etc. Last year I was weighed down by 3 coats, 2 bottles, an Ergo and an antsy kid. Be prepared. Layer, layer, layer and see if you can bring another adult with you. Tickets are available in 15-minute increments. When you purchase tickets online, you can choose your date and start time in advance. Once you enter the Conservatory you can take as much time as you want to view the show. The Gingerbread Adventures is another display at the Gardens. It is at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden on Tuesdays – Fridays; 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; November 26 – 27; December 21 & 24; December 28 – January 1; January 4; 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Salivate at the handcrafted gingerbread houses created by some of the city’s most imaginative bakers, and take an up-close tour of the spices used to make the houses. Save room for some samples—decorating gingersnaps is part of the fun. For directions and subway stops check this page out.

Gifted in Manhattan (Nov 27–29, Dec 2–6, 9–13, 16–24)
If you know and love the Brooklyn Flea that has locations in Ft. Greene and DUMBO, this is the craft market for you. Last year, Gifted was small, but this year it will be huge. Remember the old Tower Records building on Lafayette? That’s where it is being staged this year. See tons of crafty, original vendors, vintage wear and more. Location is at: 20 E 4th St (at Lafayette) http://www.brooklynflea.com

Grand Central Holiday Fair (Nov. 23^rd- Dec. 24^th)
This is a holiday fair that is on a lot of people’s lists. They have quality high-end vendors in the classy Vanderbilt Hall. The Holiday Fair hours are: Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. For more info: go to their site: www.grandcentralterminal.com. While you are there, check out the light show at Grand Central Terminal too. The opening ceremony for the Holiday Light Show is on November 30^th at 11 am. Images of winter wonderland are projected on the famous Astrological Ceiling in the main concourse. The Holiday Laser Light Show (not shown since 2005) is back this year. A series of six (6) individual six minute shows will be presented every half hour, between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM, over the course of six weeks.

Santa at ABC Carpet and Home: (Weekends from 12- 5 pm)
Everyone I know loves the ABC Santa. (See photo) He is the one you see on Good Morning America every year. His beautiful robe and rosy cheeks are so authentic- it will convince even the oldest. The lines are fairly short to see him. Bring your own camera. ABC Carpet and Home is at 888 Broadway (and 19th St), New York, NY, (212) 473-3000. http://santaandthetoymakers.com/home.htm

My favorite is to salivate at the holiday windows.
The clothes in wintertime are so yummy and the displays can be breathtaking. For my window loop: I take the 4,5,6 ot 59th Street or the C to Columbus Circle. (You can also take the N,R,W to Lexington Ave). P.S. There is another loop for Lord and Taylor and Macy’s. I have to say though I am always disappointed by Macy’s, though Lord and Taylor’s windows look good this year for the first time in a while.

Henri Bendel http://www.henribendel.com 712 Fifth Ave (at 56th St)
Barneys http://www.barneys.com 660 Madison Ave (btw. 60th and 61st St) The theme is based on “Saturday Night Live”. The photos I have seen posted from the display, are really over the top hilarious.
Bergdorf Goodman http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/ 754 Fifth Avenue (at 57th St) There is a trippy Lewis Carroll display in the women’s store, and a take off of The Fantastic Mr. Fox by Raold Dahl across the street at the men’s store.
Cartier http://www.cartier.com 2 East 52nd Street (at 5th Ave) I love Cartier’s big red bow and incredible display of millions of tiny lights.
Don’t forget to check out these other displays in the vicinity: Saks (which is usually middling though and is once again this year), Tiffany’s, Louis Vuitton (which was stellar last year) and others along Madison and 5th Aves.

Origami Tree and Dinos and Extreme Mammals and Butterflies and Frog Show at the American Museum of Natural History (November 25- Jan. 6th)
Upon approaching the museum, your tykes will love the two steel 19 foot dinosaurs that are decorated with pine boughs and lights. Inside, you can catch a glimpse of their orgami tree. This large tree is on the bottom floor of the museum, a little bit off the beaten path. It is covered with 500 paper letters and alphabetically-corresponding objects: an A and an Apatosaurus, a B and a butterfly, etc. While you are there gazing at the 13 foot tree, take a look at the fantastic (and warm) exhibit of the live butterflies in the Butterfly Conservatory. The Extreme Mammals Exhibit is good for kids with interactive displays and discussions about tracking, sizes and fossils. The Silk Road is a new exhibit I haven’t seen yet- but might we worth a look. I just heard from a grandparent that the Frogs exhibit is the best! She said each “living environment” is an opportunity to play “I SPY” with the kids. They had a fun time trying to spot the camouflaged frogs in each exhibit. I’m headed there next week! Adults: $16 Children (2-12): $9 Central Park West at 79^th Street. http://www.amnh.org/ To see the lighting of the tree and my dear friend Jo performing there click here.

Top Secret- Mission Toy: Ongoing Daily, Brooklyn Children’s Museum
This exhibit appeals to the wanna-be spy in me. You can head to TOP SECRET: Mission Toy at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and use your investigative skills to check out toys from around the world and design new playthings.Brooklyn Children’s Museum at 145 Brooklyn Ave. 718-735-4400. Brooklynkids.org. Prospect-Lefferts.

Sesame Street Exhibit and Family Day: Ongoing November 14, 2009 – February 21, 2010:
BPL’s Central Library hosts Sesame Street: A Celebration of 40 Years of Life on the Street, a rare, up-close look at the legendary show’s history, curated by Sesame Workshop. The exhibition features original Sesame StreetSesame Street, from its inception to its present and future, told through photographs, scripts, original sheet music, celluloid animation, and show props, and a special collection of Sesame Street Muppets, built by The Jim Henson Company over the show’s 40 years ((Foyer Cases); a variety of Sesame Street stories, illustrated with photographs, show props, and Muppet materials, and photographs and books from around the world (Youth Wing). In conjunction with the new exhibit, Sesame Street: A Celebration of 40 Years of Life on the Street, visitors can enjoy Sesame Street-inspired crafts and reading activities, a screening of The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland (G), and a meet-and-greet with a walkaround Elmo costumed character (arrive early to pick up a free ticket and bring a camera for photo ops!). Activities are from 11am- 4 pm. Brooklyn Public Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza, NY 11238. 718.230.2100. Brooklynpubliclibrary.org. Free. (thanks to gocitykids.com for this listing!)

Monday, Dec. 7th from 1-3 pm: Baby Safety New Moms luncheon
Come with your baby to meet other new moms and learn about this very important topic from the experts from Baby Be Safe & Baby Bodyguards. Baby Bodyguards is an Expert on our blog. They really know their sh@*t and I took a CPR class with Baby Be Safe and definitely recommend them. They partner with Soho Parenting too- so I know they are good. Details here Villa Rustica, 357 3rd St (off Fifth Ave), Park Slope $35 in advance, $40 at the door RSVP: brooklyn@babybites.net

Monday, Dec. 7th at 10:15 am: Music Together FREE demo
I love Music Together- we have taken 5 semesters which makes us official junkies, I think. Here is an opportunity to try the classes out and see if they are for you. All classes are for mixed age, infants to five years old, unless otherwise noted. Please email saying day and time you’ll attend, as well as child’s name, date of birth, parent’s name, email, and phone number at: brooklynmusictogether@gmail.com Location: 138 South Oxford St, off Hanson Place, second floor, Fort Greene, Brooklyn.

Thursday, December 10: 6:30-8 pm: Breastfeeding 101 with Baby Bites
I have heard wonderful things about Lactation Consultant Andrea Syms-Brown, though I have yet to meet her. I do think this class would be totally worth every cent. Breastfeeding isn’t always easy and it is great to have an idea what might come up and if you need help with anything right now. Meet other expectant moms and get some snacks for those growing babies. They are raffling off a photo session too. For all the details and to sign up go to their website. Event is at NY City Explorers in Prospect Heights. Cost is $25. RSVP: brooklyn@babybites.net

Dear Edwina Broadway Production (Friday, December 11 – February 15)
Birch and I are going to this next weekend- so I will let you know what I think, but I suspect it is going to be good since this 60-minute family show was nominated by the Drama Desk for Best Family Musical. In the classic tradition of “Let’s put on a show,” DEAR EDWINA’s plucky heroine, Edwina Spoonapple, decides that she and her pals will do just that. Edwina’s special talent is giving advice, and she would do almost anything to be a part of the Kalamazoo Advice-a-palooza Festival. A Song and dance musical performance for the whole family. Fridays: 7 PM Saturdays: 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM Sundays: 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM $39. Telecharge: 212.239.6200. DearEdwina.com the DR2 Kids Theatre (103 E. 15th St., NYC) (between Union Square E. & Irving Pl.), NYC f

For my list of Holiday Trees, Lights and Menorahs click here.
For my list of Holiday windows click here.

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