This weekend, there are SO MANY good events! The Mayhem Poets at BAMcafe, the Prospect Heights Crafts Fair at P.S. 9, the UniverSoul Circus… And that’s only the beginning! Sunday is Earth Day and we’ve got a TON of activities to celebrate it all weekend! For all you animal lovers, the Bronx Zoo is hosting the first weekend of Animal Tales Extravaganza and it is loads of fun! Don’t forget to visit our music listings and events calendar for more fun things to do. Cheers to a great weekend!
ONGOING
Friday, April 20th — Sunday, April 29th: various times
UniverSoul Circus at Aviator Sports & Event Center at Floyd Bennet Field
This is such a fun circus experience! I’ve gone several times and absolutely adore it! An interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Gospel… a great time is in store for all!
Details: 3159 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: Ticket prices vary. Call Ticket Master for details. Telephone: 800.745.3000. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th — Sunday, April 29th: various times
The Book of Everything
Nine-almost-ten-year-old Thomas Klopper imagines tropical fish swimming in Amsterdam’s canals, torrential hailstorms raging in midsummer, and Jesus stopping by every now and again for a chat. Thomas chronicles his daydreams in the “Book of Everything,” a secret diary that contains his greatest aspiration: “When I grow up, I’m going to be happy.” But happiness eludes Thomas, his sister and his Mama as they struggle with a controlling and sometimes violent Papa. The play is based on the Dutch novel by Guus Kuijer, set in 1951, and directed by Neil Armfield (Exit the King, The Diary of a Madman
Tickets: $9-38 depending on membership and on seat locations. Theater-goers who buy tickets for three or more New Vic shows qualify for free Membership benefits, including up to 35-percent savings. ONLINE at NewVictory.org BY PHONE at 646-223-3010; Sunday – Wednesday, 11 am-5 pm; Thursday – Saturday, 11 am-7 pm IN PERSON at The New Victory Theater Box Office (209 West 42nd Street); Sunday & Monday 11 am-5 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 12 pm-7 pm.
Details: The New Victory Theater (209 West 42nd Street)
Saturday, April 21st — April 29th at 2:00pm and 4:00pm
The Butterfly at Theater 3
Based on the book of the same name by children’s author Patricia Polacco, The Butterfly tells the story of a friendship between two 12-year-old girls, the Catholic Monique and the Jewish Sevrine, during the Nazi occupation of France. This is definitely a great play to introduce the history of the holocaust and to have several teachable moments.
Details: 311 West 43rd Street, NYC. All are welcomed. Cost: $15/general admission; $10/children 12 and under. Contact: 212.573.8791. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th – open ended
The Berenstain Bears LIVE!
We are so excited about the “beary” good show that will be held at the Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre! In The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, our favorite Bear Country citizens come to life on the Off-Broadway stage. In addition to teaching life lessons during the show, there will be a mini dance party and face painting afterwards. It’s going to be “bear”mazing! We have all seen it a couple of times and it’s super cute for the kids.
Details: Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre. 10 West 64th Street and Central Park West. Tickets start at $34.95. 866.811.4111.
Friday, April 20th – Sunday, June 10th: various times
Love From Mt. Pom Pom at The Children’s Museum of the Arts
Any art show that includes both the words “pom pom” and “love” in the show title will entice me anytime. That “Love from Mt. Pom Pom” is an art installation done by renowned Japanese artist Misaki Kawai is the clincher. This young artist has made has made a splash with her multi-media whimsical work all over the world including her wildly imaginative space stations and airplanes for Deitch Projects in 2004. In her first solo presentation in the U.S. since 2007, Kawai’s exhibition takes place during her 3-Month Museum Residency at The Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA).
Details: The Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA). 103 Charlton Street New York, NY 10014 (212) 274-0986
Admission and Hours: The museum is open to the public: Monday and Wednesday, 12PM to 5PM; Thursday and Friday 12 PM to 6PM; Saturday and Sunday, 10AM to 5PM. Closed Tuesday. Admission: Adults $10; Children $10; Seniors, Infants (0-12mos) Free. Thursdays 4-6 PM, pay-as-you-wish.
Friday, April 20th — June 30th: various times
Magic! The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things
Magician Max Darwin makes objects appear out of thin air, as the laws of physics are defied, and miracles are performed inches from spectators’ faces. This isn’t a show that you ask, “How did he do that?” It’s not that Max doesn’t do great tricks, he does. It’s that the show is so focused on the hijinks of Hamlet the mind-reading pig and the silliness of coins appearing out of every bodily orifice, that the audience doesn’t have time to focus on the head-scratching things Max performs. The magic is just the sideshow to a very entertaining and engaging performance. Our full review is here.
Details: The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things, in an open-ended Off-Broadway run. Manhattan Movement & Arts Center 248 W. 60th Street, NYC (between Amsterdam and West End Avenues)
Performances: Saturdays and Sundays at 4:30pm.
Tickets: The Amazing Max is performed at the MMAC Theater located in the Magic Carpet Rides (VIP seating) $49.50, regular general admission tickets $29.50. Tickets are available at www.telecharge.com or by phone at 212-239-6200 or 800-432-7250.
Saturday, April 21st — Sunday, July 8th: various times
“Ship-Shape: Nautical Scale Models” at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
Get excited! This new exhibition examines the detailed process of building model ships. It consists of dozens of artifacts, including model ships, vintage toy ships, a variety of antique model kit boxes, a mock-up of a modeler’s workbench that shows the building of a model ship being made in progress, and illustrations that shows how models are constructed. Among the highlights of the exhibit are models of the Battleship New Jersey, which served during WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam, and USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned vessel afloat in the world. The model USS New Jersey measures 112” W x 25” H x 15” D and the model USS Constitution measures 57” W x 43”H x 22” D. If you’ve got a child who is fascinated with ships, it doesn’t get more thorough than this, folks.p
Details: FREE with Museum admission. Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue) in NYC. Admissions: $24/adults, $12 children 3-6 years old/FREE children under 3. Visit the Museum’s website for more information.
Friday, April 20th — July 8th: various times
Keith Haring Exhibit at The Brooklyn Museum
Head to the Morris A. and Meyer Schapiro Wing, 5th Floor to visit this kid-friendly exhibit. The exhibition chronicles the period in Haring’s career from his arrival in New York City through the years when he started his studio practice and began making public and political art on the city streets. Immersing himself in New York’s downtown culture, he quickly became a fixture on the artistic scene, befriending other artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kenny Scharf, as well as many of the most innovative cultural figures of the period. The critical role that these relationships played in Haring’s development as a public artist and facilitator of group exhibitions and performances is also explored. Pieces on view include a number of very early works never before seen in public; seven video pieces, including Painting Myself into a Corner(his first video piece) and Tribute to Gloria Vanderbilt; and collages created from cut-up fragments of his own writing, history textbooks, and newspapers.
Details: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn. Telephone: 718.638.5000. Visit the website for more information.
FRIDAY APRIL 20TH
Friday, April 20th: various times
The Shadow Box Theatre Presents “Once Upon A Story” at PS 3, The Bedford Village School
With a cast consisting of 6 puppeteers, a musician, and a storyteller, this is a Celebration of America! The Growing Rock: A Native American Tall Tale, from the Miwok Tribe of the Southwest, and Big Annie: An American Tall Tale, about a great lady who becomes Annie Christmas, join with Johnny Appleseed and our own See-More in an American Songfest in praise of our diverse American cultures.
Details: 50 Jefferson Avenue, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 4 –9. Cost: $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Telephone: 212.724.0677. Visit the website for more information.
Friday April 20 at 5:30 PM
Go Green! Prince Charming’s Quest for Love and Ecology in NYC at The New York Children’s Theater Festival
Go Green! is a musical fairy tale about a modern-day Prince Charming who must choose between his passion for saving the earth or completing his quest to preserve true love forevermore. Festival co-founder Chelsey Shannon says, “Go Green! is an up-beat original story with unexpected twists and turns, making it exciting and fun for kids to follow. It has catchy music which totally hooked me and combines classic fairy tales with the idea of being green. Kids will be thrilled to see what Prince Charming would rather be doing with his free time.” Music by Mary Feinsinger (www.maryfeinsinger.com) / Book and Lyrics by Joan Ross Sorkin (www.joanrosssorkin.com)
Details: The festival will premiere April 20 and run through May 5 The Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater 10 West 64th Street at Central Park West. Tickets are $18 ($15 YMCA members) available through Ovationtix, (866) 811-4111 or at www.newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org/tickets.html.
Friday, April 20th beginning at 10:00am
Earth Day New York at Grand Central
Get excited! Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall is throwing its annual Earth Day shindig, which takes place both inside and outside the station. Inside, check out educational displays from eco-friendly companies along with activities for kids. Outside, though, is where the real action is, as the streets surrounding the terminal are turned into a giant fair with live music, green goods and educational activities. On Friday, April 20th, you can head to Times Square for even more entertainment, speakers and a chance to see the latest in green transport in a big runway show.
Details: Between East 42nd and 45th Streets, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.922.0048. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th from 11:30am — 12:00pm
Story Time with Jordan at powerHouse Arena
Join in the fun on Fridays as powerHouse Children’s Book Specialist Jordan Nielsen reads from some of our favorite kids books. It’s a perfect pre-nap activity, if you ask me. Please note: RSVP is highly recommended.
Details: 37 Main Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 2-6. FREE for all. Contact: 718.666.3049 or emailkids@powerHouseArena.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Baby Boogie at the Prospect Park YMCA
Are you a new parent?! Then this class may just be perfect for you. Listen closely and you’ll hear the class calling your name. Not only will you have time to meet other parents here, but the class also includes games for babies, singing, and dancing. Jackpot!
Details: 357 Ninth Street. Ideal for parents with babies up to 13 months. $12/visit. Telephone: 718.768.7100.Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th from 4:30pm — 5:30pm
Animal Haven’s Caring Kids Program
Where are our animal lovers? Or parents of animal-loving children? You’ll want to check out this FREE event that introduces children and young teens to basic animal care and teaches them about existing issues in animal welfare. Through exciting lesson plans and interactive activities with cats and dogs at the shelter, participants learn the importance of treating animals humanely. They will not only make an impact on the lives of the animals they encounter, but it can certainly be a significant experience for them as well.
Details: 251 Centre Street. Ages 5-12. FREE for all, but RSVP is required. Contact KendraM@ah-nyc.org or visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th at 5pm
Earth Day at Mini Max
FREE Storytime event featuring The Adventures of George Global. George Global is a superhero, “protector of the Earth” who shows kids what will happen if we don’t protect our environment in the children’s book, The Adventures of George Global, The Lakeside Lather and The Adventures of George Global, Let’s Take a Spin Around the House, written by Peter Gorin and co-created by John Magno.
Details: Mini Max Toys & Cuts 152 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Friday, April 20th at 6:15pm
Family Movie Night at The Moxie Spot
Still stumped on how to enjoy Family Friday Nights after a long week? Head on over to The Moxie Spot, a family-friendly restaurant and play space for a fun Friday night film screening. Kids will eat for free when you purchase an entrée from the dinner special after 5:30pm. Now that what we call “family friendly.”
Details: The short feature begins at 6:15pm. The longer feature begins at 6:45pm. 81-83 Atlantic Avenue (at Hicks Street). 718.923.9710
Friday, April 20th from 6:30pm — 8:30pm
Pajama GLOGA Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga
Now this is what I call a pajama party! Kids should wear their pajamas to this special Friday night class! Take a fantastical yoga adventure, then a story and yummy smelling foot rubs. Milk and cookies will be served after the class, then sweet dreams to follow! What a great way to end a tough week at school. Please call to reserve a space for your child.
Details: 104 West 14th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 4-7. Cost: $20/child. Contact: downdog@karmakidsyoga.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th at 7:00pm
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Philip Coltoff Center Main Stage
Get your magic beans ready! The New Acting Company debuts its take on the old fairy tale about a dreamer who goes on a fantastical journey in order to change his lot in life. Giants reign, harps sing, geese lay golden eggs and Jack discovers that community, self-empowerment and art can win over all. Judging from the troupe’s past productions, this Jack‘s sure to amuse kids and adults alike with slapstick and clever pop culture references.
Details: 219 Sullivan Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 4 and up. NO INFANTS PERMITTED. Cost: $18.00. Contact: 212.868.4444. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 20th at 7:00pm
The Dragon Child at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
This is a blend of traditional Chinese art, music, and culture with contemporary puppetry, theater, and animation. The China Children’s Art Theater brings an optimistic story of growth, survival, and courage in the U.S. premiere of this production.
Details: Corner of LaGuardia Place and Washington Square South, NYC. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Cost: $25-$40. Contact: 212.998.4941 or skirball@boxoffice@nyu.edu. Visit the website for more information.
SATURDAY APRIL 21ST
Saturday, April 21st beginning at 10:00am
Earth Day New York at Grand Central
Get excited! Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall is throwing its annual Earth Day shindig, which takes place both inside and outside the station. Inside, check out educational displays from eco-friendly companies along with activities for kids. Outside, though, is where the real action is, as the streets surrounding the terminal are turned into a giant fair with live music, green goods and educational activities.
Details: Between East 42nd and 45th Streets, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.922.0048. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 10:00am — 7:00pm
New York Green Festival 2012 at Jacob Javits Center
The nation’s largest and most trusted green living event will kick off its 11th year by bringing the New York City green community together at the city’s first ever Green Festival. Kids of all ages will be able to participate in fun activities in the Green Kids’ Zone, a space just for them where they can learn about the basics of sustainability while being allowed to creatively express themselves. Among some of the great activities planned includes Arrterro craft tables, where kids can create a beautiful bookmark to aid in reading adventures, and the Fun Art Bus, an old school bus converted into a traveling art studio filled with exciting art projects created with repurposed objects. Parents can enjoy themselves as leaders in the environmental community, including speakers, entrepreneurs and activists will be featured at the weekend-long show, as well as an organic beer and wine pavilion, a Green Economy Expo sponsored by UrbanGoGreen and a unique marketplace of more than 300 eco-friendly businesses, featuring the latest and greatest in sustainable products and services.
Details: 655 West 34th Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. Cost: $12-$25. Contact: 212.253.0474. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21 at 11 am and 2 pm
Go Green! Prince Charming’s Quest for Love and Ecology in NYC at The New York Children’s Theater Festival
Go Green! is a musical fairy tale about a modern-day Prince Charming who must choose between his passion for saving the earth or completing his quest to preserve true love forevermore. Festival co-founder Chelsey Shannon says, “Go Green! is an up-beat original story with unexpected twists and turns, making it exciting and fun for kids to follow. It has catchy music which totally hooked me and combines classic fairy tales with the idea of being green. Kids will be thrilled to see what Prince Charming would rather be doing with his free time.” Music by Mary Feinsinger (www.maryfeinsinger.com) / Book and Lyrics by Joan Ross Sorkin (www.joanrosssorkin.com)
Details: The festival will premiere April 20 and run through May 5 The Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater 10 West 64th Street at Central Park West. Tickets are $18 ($15 YMCA members) available through Ovationtix, (866) 811-4111 or at www.newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org/tickets.html.
Saturday, April 21st from 10:00am — 11:30pm
Drawing Together at Kentler International Drawing Space
Teaching artist, Meglena Zapreva will lead an exciting workshop based on Kentler’s current benefit show, 100 Works on Paper. Please note: Register in advance with your child’s name and age, as well as your name by emailing sallie@kentlergallery.org
Details: 353 Van Brunt Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 4 and up. No drop offs please! FREE for all. Contact: 718.875.2098. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 10:15am — 12:00pm
Family Program: Body Buildings at The Skyscraper Museum
Kids will make a city skyline with their silhouettes. Learn about the different skyscraper shapes by using poster paper to turn your “skeleton frame” into a drawing of your very own building! Please note: Registration required by Friday at 5pm.
Details: 39 Battery Place, NYC. All are welcomed. Cost: $5/person; FREE for members. Contact: 212.945.6324 or education@skyscraper.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 11:00am — 4:00pm
Animal Tales Extravaganza at The Bronx Zoo
This event is SO. MUCH. FUN! Join us for an extravaganza of animal-themed entertainment featuring your favorite children’s entertainers during weekends this spring. From Broadway’s Avenue Q, come see the family-friendly puppet show Avenue Zoo. March in a fantastical Rainforest Creature Parade, stop by for a meet-and-greet with characters from beloved children’s books and shows, and enjoy animal yoga stretches and crafts activities. Please note: This weekend, visitors can enjoy Storybook Fun with Curious George, and meet Brobee, Foofa and Toodee from Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE! Woot!
Details: 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx. All ages welcomed. Cost: FREE with zoo admissions. Contact: 718.367.1010. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 10:30am — 11:30am
Story Time with Carol and Friends
Carroll Garden folks, weekly story time has never been so good! The Friends of Carroll Garden Library present, “Story Time with Carol and Friends” so head on over to join in on the educational fun.
Details: All ages welcomed. FREE for all. 396 Clinton Street. For more information,contactfriendscglibrary@gmail.com or visit their website.
Saturday, April 21st at 11:00am
Kids Story Time at Greenlight Bookstore
Grab the kiddies and head to Saturday Story Time, which typically features authors and illustrators of picture books and/or neighborhood performers reading stories. At times, there may even be crafts! A totally entertaining Saturday morning? We think so!
Details: Geared towards kids ages 3 – 8 years. Open to the public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Phone: 718. 246. 0200. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 11:00am — 6:00pm
Prospect Heights Crafts Fair at P.S. 9
What is this? A lovingly curated marketplace of independent artists and designers from Brooklyn and beyond. An extensive showcase of handmade treasures, such as stationery, textiles, artisanal food, jewelry. And so much more! This year, there will be a whole roster of kid activities from 12pm to 5pm so get excited! For only $5, your child can drop in (with or without a parent) to do arts and crafts, sing and dance, participate in a reading or test soccer skills, in which proceeds from the fair benefit the Arts Programs at Prospect Heights’ very own public elementary school, P.S. 9.
Details: 80 Underhill Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: prospectheightscraftsfair@gmail.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st at 11:00am and 1:30pm
The Mayhem Poets at BAMcafe
Spoken word artists, The Mayhem Poets, raise poetry to playful new heights in this captivating adventure through language for family audiences. Covering everything from Dr. Seuss to Superheroes, the poets are joined by a tap dancer and an electronic violinist to explore rhythm in all of its infectious forms. I’ve seen them before and there’s only one way to describe the performance: awesome!
Details: 30 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 6-10. Cost: $15/adults; $10/children 13 and under. Contact: 718.636.4100. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st at 11:00am and 2:30pm
New York Children’s Theater Festival Presents: Go Green! at The Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater
In this musical fairly-tale, a modern-day royal is forced to choose between his passion for saving the Earth or going on a quest for his true love. What will he choose? Only time will tell…
Details: 5 West 63rd Street between Broadway and Central Park, NYC. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Cost: $18.00. Contact: info@newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 11:00am — 1:00pm
National Autism Awareness Month Carnival and Picnic at Kings Bay Y at Windsor Terrace
April is National Autism Awareness Month and in its honor, The Kings Bay Y at Windsor Terrace is hosting an afternoon of music, games, food, prizes and great company; and all for a great cause at their free carnival-themed picnic. Carnival style activities include: horseshoes, mini golf, can toss, BINGO, races, face painting, raffles, arts & crafts. Woot!
Details: 1224 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: Nadira at 718.407.6377. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 11:30am — 12:30pm
PlayLab Workshop: Dirt Detectives at Brooklyn Children’s Museum
What’s in soil? Kids become dirt detectives and dig into soil in search of the hidden treasures in dirt. Children can create a mud painting of their very own
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $7.50/general admission. Contact: 718.735.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 11:30am — 1:00pm
Kids’ Workshop at the Affordable Art Fair
LittleCollector will be hosting two children’s art workshops at the Affordable Art Fair. At 11:30am, guests can create their own animation with a Zoetrope! Kids can make a mini motion picture by learning how to use and build a zoetrope. At 12:30pm at the Just Like Andy Workshop, kids will learn from LittleCollector educators about Andy Warhol’s polaroid portraits and object photography by taking their own polaroids and coloring them Andy-style.
Details: 7 West 34th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Cost: $5/adults; FREE for children. Contact: Kierstein Ruppert at 410.340.8779. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 12:00pm — 3:00pm
BRIC Arts Media Brooklyn Family Day at BRIC Rotunda Gallery
Say It Loud, Say It Clear! Collage, Stamp and Create Your Story! Join a professional artist teacher for an imaginative adventure in art-making inspired by BRIC Rotunda Gallery’s current exhibition on view, Mystics: A Blessed Rage for Order. Participants will observe works in the show that use the repetition of words and mark-making, and use that inspiration and process to illustrate their own personal experiences. Professional wooden panels will be provided along with alphabet stamps, fun stickers, foam letters, glittering gems, and drawing materials. Each participant will take away a magical representation of themselves and their process.
Details: 33 Clinton Street, Brooklyn. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: contemporaryart@bricartsmedia.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21- 12:00 pm- 8 pm
St George Day Festival on Staten Island
The annual St. George Day festival on Staten Island features two jam-packed stages of music and dance; a stage specifically designated for children’s performances; an artist’s area featuring live painting, craft workshops, wall of artwork, and even a children’s gallery; a book area with a special stage for literary performances, book vendors, and lessons in book binding; and an Earth Day area where both children and adults will have the opportunity to learn about environmental sustainability. The trademarks of St. George Day are the Giant Dragon Puppet show and parade (at 2pm). The puppet show aims to teach children about peaceful conflict resolution. The plot is a twist of the St. George and the Dragon myth from one in which St George slays the dragon to one in which they peacefully resolve their differences. The parade features a slew of dragons and flower fairies. Some of the activities to encourage people to think about preserving energy and respecting our habitat will include: Composting lessons from the NYC Compost Project, A Great Tree Walk of the Neighborhood will introduce participants to the history of the area through the trees and promote stewardship of them, A Rainwater Harvesting demonstration powered by a bicycle that people can ride to transfer the water to a tank, Cooking demonstrations of healthy, natural foods by City Harvest, A giant metal topiary dragon that will be created with natural resources at the event by participants, A participatory children’s play about the animals and plants that live in the garden that is performed by young festival attendees, A recycling relay race in which participants need to run to and deposit their garbage in the appropriate receptacle, A Stop ‘N’ Swap hosted by Grow NYC where people can bring any items that they no longer want while others can pick them up to take home, promoting re-cycling and re-use of items being discarded. Lessons in nature journaling, plant and animal identification, growing herbs, making seed balls and more, Information about growing herbs and seed starts by SI Herb Society, Ability to plant and buy flowers from the Federated Garden Clubs of SI, An interactive mural to promote transportation alternatives to gasoline powered vehicles as well as free bike repair and lessons about cycling and transforming old bike parts to make new things like jewelry and bags hosted by Recycle a Bicycle.
Details: Tompkinsville Park at the Corner of Bay Street and Victory Boulevard. The park is a short walk from the Staten Island Ferry. Appropriate for All Ages. Wheelchair Accessible.
Free
Saturday, April 21st at 1:00pm
Saturday Family Programs: Pinocchio at The Brooklyn Public Library Dweck Center
Oh boy… Everyone’s favorite puppet begins his adventures with a trip to the Land of the Toys, meets a singing-and-dancing Fox and Cat, is saved by the magical Blue Fairy, and is rescued from the belly of a whale!
Details: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.230.2100. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 1:00pm — 3:00pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 1:00pm — 4:00pm
Prenatal Partner Yoga and Childbirth Education Workshop at Karma Kids Yoga Peace in Studio
Pregnant Brooklynites, join Juliana Secches, Pre/Postnatal Expert, to learn important tools to help you face the physical and emotional demands of labor, birth, and early motherhood in a positive and supportive environment.
Details: 102 West 14th Street, NYC. Adults only. Cost: $100. Contact: downdog@karmakidsyoga.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Nature’s Helpers at Prospect Park Audubon Center
Since it’s so nice out, spend time outside enjoying nature while helping to keep the Park clean. Gloves, garbage bags, and trash grabbers will be provided.
Details: Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday April 21st at 3pm
Felting Workshop with Extreme Kids
Try felting this Saturday with the Art Shack. It doesn’t get earthier than this! For Earth Day please bring rocks or pebbles you found because you will wrap those rocks in beautiful merino wool and turn it them into felt wrapped rocks by using warm, soapy water! A really great tactile experience! The rocks should not have any sharp edges and should be around the size of an egg or smaller.
Details: Space No. 1 in the Coop School at 40 Brevoort Place in Clinton Hill. please RSVP to Kate at katemilford@extremekidsandcrew.org.
Saturday, April 21st at 2:00pm and 7:00pm
The Dragon Child at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
This is a blend of traditional Chinese art, music, and culture with contemporary puppetry, theater, and animation. The China Children’s Art Theater brings an optimistic story of growth, survival, and courage in the U.S. premiere of this production.
Details: Corner of LaGuardia Place and Washington Square South, NYC. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Cost: $25-$40. Contact: 212.998.4941 or skirball@boxoffice@nyu.edu. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
Race Around the Farmyard at Lefferts Historic House, Prospect Park
The whole family can participate in potato sack races, stilts, and other old fashioned games. Talk about a fun Sunday afternoon!
Details: Willink Entrance at Flatbush and Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st at 2:30pm
Art Works at The Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Visit the Totally Tots area with your little ones to see what’s in store for that budding Picasso!
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. 718. 735.4400. Ages 5 and under.
Saturday, April 21st at 3:00pm
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Philip Coltoff Center Main Stage
Get your magic beans ready! The New Acting Company debuts its take on the old fairy tale about a dreamer who goes on a fantastical journey in order to change his lot in life. Giants reign, harps sing, geese lay golden eggs and Jack discovers that community, self-empowerment and art can win over all. Judging from the troupe’s past productions, this Jack‘s sure to amuse kids and adults alike with slapstick and clever pop culture references.
Details: 219 Sullivan Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 4 and up. NO INFANTS PERMITTED. Cost: $18.00. Contact: 212.868.4444. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st beginning at 6:00pm
Tribeca Drive-In Knuckleball at the World Financial Center Plaza
Take me out to the ball game! Bring the kids early for live music, giveaways, baseball trivia contests and pitching clinics with pro knuckleballers R.A. Dickey of the New York Mets, Tim Wakefield, formerly of the Boston Red Sox, and former New York Yankee Jim Bouton, then see the world premiere of this action-packed TFF documentary about their controversial pitching style. Please note: Tribeca Drive-in opens at 6:00 pm; Activities and programming begin at 6:30 pm; and Film screenings start at dusk (approx. 8:15 pm).
Details: 200 Vesey Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.941.2400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st from 7:00pm — 10:00pm
Thunderbird Social at National Museum of the American Indian
Join the Thunderbird Indian Singers and Dancers led by Louis Mofsie (Hopi/Winnebago) in an evening of social dancing. Heyna’s Second Sons is the featured drum group. Bring the entire family and enjoy the festivities!
Details: One Bowling Green, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.514.3700. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 21st at 7:00pm
Trusty Sidekick Theater Presents: “The Little One and the Sea of Letters” at Abrons Art Center
What would you do if the only thing standing between you and your future was a vast, endless ocean? In “The Little One and the Sea of Letters,” a museum guide discovers a lost trunk and uncovers a window into the lives of the inhabitants of a forgotten village, including a young girl known only as “The Little One.” As the guide reads through the artifacts inside the trunk, the story preserved in their pages come to life, chronicling the young girl’s epic adventure. After a mysterious storm threatens the future of her village, and her father disappears in search of help for his family, the Little One must face the unknown to find a better life across the ocean. Will she be reunited with her father? Will she find the elusive City of Glass?
Details: 466 Grand Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Cost: $10/adults; $5/kids. Contact: aanzel@trustysidekick.org. Visit the website for more information.
SUNDAY APRIL 22ND
Sunday, April 22nd from 10:00 am- 1:00 pm
Earth Day Fair at Congregation Beth Elohim
10 a.m. -11 a.m. Learning and study opportunities with Rabbi Larry Troster and members of the CBE Green Team about greening, Judaism, and our community.
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. A green fair with a huge variety of fun activities and learning opportunities for all age such as making solar panel cars, recycled art workshops, composting workshops, learning about the Farm (and Food) Bill, finding out about a new local CSA, finding out about hydrofracking (and how to take action around it), learning about maintaining tree pits, having a smoothie from a Eden Village Camp’s bike blender and more. The event is sponsored by Brooklyn Food Coalition. Bring your cellphones and printer cartridges! The first 10 to bring e-waste will receive a free pass to the New York Hall of Science.
Details: Tickets: $5 for adult members, $10 for adult non-members—and all children are admitted free!
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:00am — 6:00pm
New York Green Festival 2012 at Jacob Javits Center
The nation’s largest and most trusted green living event will kick off its 11th year by bringing the New York City green community together at the city’s first ever Green Festival. Kids of all ages will be able to participate in fun activities in the Green Kids’ Zone, a space just for them where they can learn about the basics of sustainability while being allowed to creatively express themselves. Among some of the great activities planned includes Arrterro craft tables, where kids can create a beautiful bookmark to aid in reading adventures, and the Fun Art Bus, an old school bus converted into a traveling art studio filled with exciting art projects created with repurposed objects. Parents can enjoy themselves as leaders in the environmental community, including speakers, entrepreneurs and activists will be featured at the weekend-long show, as well as an organic beer and wine pavilion, a Green Economy Expo sponsored by UrbanGoGreen and a unique marketplace of more than 300 eco-friendly businesses, featuring the latest and greatest in sustainable products and services.
Details: 655 West 34th Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. Cost: $12-$25. Contact: 212.253.0474. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:00am — 4:00pm
Animal Tales Extravaganza at The Bronx Zoo
This event is SO. MUCH. FUN! Join us for an extravaganza of animal-themed entertainment featuring your favorite children’s entertainers during weekends this spring. From Broadway’s Avenue Q, come see the family-friendly puppet show Avenue Zoo. March in a fantastical Rainforest Creature Parade, stop by for a meet-and-greet with characters from beloved children’s books and shows, and enjoy animal yoga stretches and crafts activities. Please note: This weekend, visitors can enjoy Storybook Fun with Curious George, and meet Brobee, Foofa and Toodee from Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE! Woot!
Details: 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx. All ages welcomed. Cost: FREE with zoo admissions. Contact: 718.367.1010. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd: 11:00 am and on: various times
Earth Day Celebration at Chelsea Market Passage
Get excited because Earth marks the launch of the spring season of programs at the park! Here’s a schedule of events:
10:00am – 1:00pm: High Line Art Performance
Participatory art performance by Alison Knowles, who will toss a giant salad and serve it at a free communal meal on the High Line.
11:00am – 3:00pm: Gardeners Interactive Green-Up Info Station
Learn about urban composting and talk to the High Line Gardeners about the challenges of maintaining a park in the sky.
11:00am – 7:00pm: High Line Field Station
Visit our mobile information cart, the High Line Field Station and meet one of our Greeters. Greeters are a group of volunteers who answer questions and provide information about the park’s design, history, horticulture, art, and more.
11:00am: Volunteer Recognition Ceremony
Celebrate the volunteers who cut back last season’s grasses and perennials, and clearing the High Line’s planting beds to make room for new growth.
2:00pm – 4:00pm: High Line Kids: Earth Day in the Sky
Music by the On the Lam Brass Band, wildflower seed ball-making, face painting, and the creation of a communal mural.
Details: On the Highline at West 15th Street, NYC. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.500.6035. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 11:00am
Baby Stories and Singalongs at Greenlight Bookstore
Babies and toddlers under 3 years old will be highly entertained with stories, songs, and interactive play as the children’s performers Miss Nina, Jon Samson, and Vered take turns keeping them busy.
Details: Geared toward ages 3 years and under. Open to public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:00am — 1:00pm
“Family Fun-Raiser” to Benefit Shot@Life at the Biergarten
In celebration of World Immunization Week, Mocha Moms Brooklyn invites you to the “Family Fun-Raiser” to benefit Shot@Life. There will be music, movement, eats, and treats. Kid-friendly fun is also in store for all guests, including yoga and a music performance.
Details: 710 Fulton Street (at Hanson Place), Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: suggested family donation $5 — $60.
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:00am — 5:00pm
Earth Day Celebration at J&R Jr.
There’s a whole lot to do at J&R Jr. in celebration of Earth Day! From a concert by Moey’s Music Party (11am) to an interactive music class by MoonSoup (12:30pm) to free arts and crafts by Lazoo (all day), the little ones are sure to have a good time!
Details: 1 Ann Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.238.9060. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:30am — 12:30pm
PlayLab Workshop: Dirt Detectives at Brooklyn Children’s Museum
What’s in soil? Kids become dirt detectives and dig into soil in search of the hidden treasures in dirt. Children can create a mud painting of their very own
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $7.50/general admission. Contact: 718.735.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 11:30am — 1:00pm
Kids’ Workshop at the Affordable Art Fair
Little Collector will be hosting two children’s art workshops at the Affordable Art Fair. At 11:30am, guests can create their own animation with a Zoetrope! Kids can make a mini motion picture by learning how to use and build a zoetrope. At 12:30pm at the Just Like Andy Workshop, kids will learn from LittleCollector educators about Andy Warhol’s polaroid portraits and object photography by taking their own polaroids and coloring them Andy-style.
Details: 7 West 34th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Cost: $5/adults; FREE for children. Contact: Kierstein Ruppert at 410.340.8779. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 12:00pm
The Pop Ups: Radio Jungle at Littlefield
The Pop Ups Radio Jungle is a new musical adventure, an educational journey through time and space populated with mermaids, bananas, on-location-extreme-cooking shows, treasure maps, giant crayons, a sky full of glowing constellations, dancing bats, and more.
Details: 622 Degraw Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $15-$45. Contact: info@thepopups.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 12:00pm — 4:00pm
4th Annual Gowanus Grind at Thomas Greene Park
The fourth Annual Gowanus Grind will take place down the block from the TF at Thomas Greene Park. They’ll be a free skate clinic for beginners and hosing a skate competition, and there’s a ton of other awesome free stuff planned for the event. The Gowanus Grind is amazing every year, and it seems like this one’s going to be the best yet.
Details: Between Nevins Street and 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all.
Sunday, April 22nd from 12:00pm — 5:00pm
NYPD Day at the Staten Island Children’s Museum
Bring the kids to meet real police officers! They will learn fingerprinting techniques and create their own shield in the walk-in workshop.
Details: 1000 Richmond Terrace, SI. All ages welcomed. Cost: $6/general admissions. Contact: 718.273.2060. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 1:00pm — 3:00pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 1:00pm — 4:00pm
B’Earthday Featuring Bash the Trash at the Audubon Center
Bash the Trash returns for a third year in a row to Prospect Park’s B’Earthday Celebration! Instrument Building workshops followed by a duo performance of “Family Bash” with trash-bashers Nathan Hetherington and Martin Urbach, culminating in a joyously noisy parade! Other activities of the day include: nature games, tours, lakeshore clean-up, educational activities, performances, and crafts.
Details: 95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 3 -12. FREE for all. Contact: info@prospectpark.org. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 1:00pm — 4:00pm
Spring Wash Day at Lefferts Historic House
Are you ready to get down and dirty? It’s time to get the dirt out of your 19th century reproduction clothing the non-electric way, using tubs, washboards, and bar soap.
Details: Intersection of Ocean Ave and Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.789.2822 or lefferts@prospectpark.org. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22: 1:00 – 3 pm
Mini Earth Day at Mini Jake
Join Mini Jake for an Earth Day Celebration. It’s time for spring cleaning, so bring your clothes for textile recycling and batteries for recycling. You will have the opportunity to decorate tote bags and paper trees from Plan Toys, create with mountains of dough from Eco Kids, make a recycled potholder project using old tee shirts and do some crafts from a Scrapkins Build-it-Book (you can get a signed copy for just $10 too). Professional make-up artist Candice Crawford will be transforming your little environmentalists with her face painting for just $10. You can even win prizes from Playmobile, 3 Sprouts, Green Toys and Lunchskins. For the first 20 customers who spend over $100 you get a FREE Zutano reuseable shopping bag.
Details: 178 North 9th Street, Williamsburg.
Sunday, April 22nd from 1:30pm — 3:00pm
Jazz For Brunch Kids at Jazz Standard
The weekly session is packed with family and friends grooving to music by the Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra. Brunch and full bar available for your dining pleasure.
Details: 116 East 27th Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. Cost: In lieu of cover charge, guest may donate $5. Contact: 212.576.2232. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 2:00pm
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale at the Brooklyn Center for Performing Arts
When a great African king desires a wife, Mufaro’s two daughters are invited to meet him. Both are beautiful, but does either have the inner beauty of a potential queen? Told through African dance, drumming, narration and song, this musical celebrates goodness, generosity, and kindness of heart. A Target FamilyFun Series event recommended for ages six and up. This dramatization is being performed by permission of the John Steptoe Literary Trust.
Details: 2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Cost: $7.00. Contact: 718.951.4500. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Nature’s Helpers at Prospect Park Audubon Center
Since it’s so nice out, spend time outside enjoying nature while helping to keep the Park clean. Gloves, garbage bags, and trash grabbers will be provided.
Details: Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
Race Around the Farmyard at Lefferts Historic House, Prospect Park
The whole family can participate in potato sack races, stilts, and other old fashioned games. Talk about a fun Sunday afternoon!
Details: Willink Entrance at Flatbush and Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
Jammin’ Jenn’s Music Therapy Workshop at Karma Kids Yoga
Join Jenn Pacht-Goodman, founder of Jammin’ Jenn Music Therapy for Children, for this special Music Therapy Workshop during Autism Awareness Month! This group will encourage turn taking skills, increase expressive and receptive language, increase peer awareness and have a blast! Music Therapy encourages children to comply with on task behaviors in a non-threatening way so come with your child to participate in a fun filled 30 minute Music Therapy Group. Instruments such as egg shakers, maracas, rhythm sticks, bells and drums will all be explored as your child goes on a musical journey with Jammin Jenn! Parent participation is required. Please note: Child must be able to attend in a group for 30 minutes, and remain in a circle without running around unless activity calls for movement.
Details: 104 West 14th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 7-11. Cost: $30/person. Contact: downdog@karmakidsyoga.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 3:00pm
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Philip Coltoff Center Main Stage
Get your magic beans ready! The New Acting Company debuts its take on the old fairy tale about a dreamer who goes on a fantastical journey in order to change his lot in life. Giants reign, harps sing, geese lay golden eggs and Jack discovers that community, self-empowerment and art can win over all. Judging from the troupe’s past productions, this Jack‘s sure to amuse kids and adults alike with slapstick and clever pop culture references.
Details: 219 Sullivan Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 4 and up. NO INFANTS PERMITTED. Cost: $18.00. Contact: 212.868.4444. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 3:00pm
The Dragon Child at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
This is a blend of traditional Chinese art, music, and culture with contemporary puppetry, theater, and animation. The China Children’s Art Theater brings an optimistic story of growth, survival, and courage in the U.S. premiere of this production.
Details: Corner of LaGuardia Place and Washington Square South, NYC. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Cost: $25-$40. Contact: 212.998.4941 or skirball@boxoffice@nyu.edu. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 3:00pm
5th Annual National Grid Earth Day Celebration at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
This event will take place adjacent to the Walt Whitman Theater on the Brooklyn College campus immediately following a performance of the family musical Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters – An African Tale.
Details: 2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.951.4600. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd from 6:00pm — 9:00pm
Family Bingo Night at The Moxie Spot
What a lovely way to end the weekend! Eat, drink, play, and win big! (Well, hopefully.) There will be little prizes for the little kids, who, by the way, can eat for FREE with the purchase of any dinner entree or dinner special. Yum!
Details: 81 Atlantic Avenue. Ages 4 and up. Contact 718.923.9710 or visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 22nd at 7:00pm
Trusty Sidekick Theater Presents: “The Little One and the Sea of Letters” at Abrons Art Center
What would you do if the only thing standing between you and your future was a vast, endless ocean? In “The Little One and the Sea of Letters,” a museum guide discovers a lost trunk and uncovers a window into the lives of the inhabitants of a forgotten village, including a young girl known only as “The Little One.” As the guide reads through the artifacts inside the trunk, the story preserved in their pages come to life, chronicling the young girl’s epic adventure. After a mysterious storm threatens the future of her village, and her father disappears in search of help for his family, the Little One must face the unknown to find a better life across the ocean. Will she be reunited with her father? Will she find the elusive City of Glass?
Details: 466 Grand Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Cost: $10/adults; $5/kids. Contact: aanzel@trustysidekick.org. Visit the website for more information.