The last weekend in April is here, and can I just say one thing: we are going out with a bang! I literally got super excited while putting together this weekend’s list of events because there are so many cool things going on around town! If you have yet to check out the super hip UniverSoul Circus or “Book of Everything,” this will be the last weekend to catch it. You know the one thing that I love about spring and the accompanying warm weather? Street fairs! And festivals! There are many to choose from, whether you stay local and head to Park Slope or travel to Tribeca! Also, if you have a kid who’s motor vehicle obsessed, then you do NOT want to miss the Touch-A-Truck Brooklyn. Read our full review of this event HERE. Don’t forget to stop by a YMCA near you for their Healthy Kids Day! Oh yeah… be sure to check out our calendar and Kindiefest this weekend for more awesome events! Happy weekend!
ALL WEEKEND
Plop!
April 26- May 13
Based on the book The Terrible Plop, this play for preschoolers gives everyone a chance to get up and boogie down and be part of the action. With soft pillows for tiny tushes and no need for shushes, PLOP! is puddles of fun for everyone. Two little rabbits down by the lake, munching on carrots and chocolate cake… when PLOP!, an apple splashes into a magical pond. Help their friends Nathan and Nadia as they try to stop the PLOP! using all the tricks and traps, gadgets and gizmos, rhythm and rhyme that they know.
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)
Friday, April 27th — Sunday, April 29th from 10:00am — 6:00pm
Grand Opening of Wee babe!
Join in the fun at the grand opening of Wee Babe! There will be loads of things to do all weekend long. Here’s a schedule of the festivities:
11am-1pm: Face painting by Artemix Entertainment.
1pm-3pm: Robert Moy of Brooklyn Balloon Company will be twisting his works of art made for fans of all ages.
2pm-4pm: Glitter Tattoos
Details: 131 North 4th Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Contact: 347.763.0041 or email weehelp@weebabe.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 27th — 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 27th — 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 28th — 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 27th – 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 27th – 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 27th — 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 28th — 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 27th — 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 27TH
Friday, April 27th: 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 27th 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 oremailkids@powerHouseArena.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 27th 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 27th 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 27th at 5:30pm
New York Children’s Theater Festival Presents: Scheme of the Super Bullies at Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater
When mad scientist Countess von Cooties forms the League of Super Bullies, fiercely independent superhero Princess Dodgeball must learn to accept help from her friends (and the audience) to save her school in this musical production.
Details: 5 West 63rd Street between Broadway and Central Park, NYC. Ages 6 and up. Cost: $18.00. Contact: info@newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, April 27th 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 27th 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 27th at 7:00pm
Trusty Sidekick Theater Company Presents, “The Little One and The Sea Letters” at Abrons Art Center
What would you do if the only thing standing between you and your future was a vast, endless ocean? Hmmm… 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. Ages 8 and up. Cost: $10/adults; $5/kids. Contact: aanzel@trustysidekick.org. Visit the website for more information.
SATURDAY APRIL 28TH
Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am — 6:00pm
Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival at Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
This will be a weekend celebrating traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. There will be Taiko Drumming, manga artists, J-Pop bands, Tea ceremonies, Samurai sword fighting, cosplay fashion show, bonsai demonstrations, Minbu Folk dancing, kids’ workshops, puzzle plaza and much more! Come prepared because festivals will be held, rain or shine!
Details: 1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE with garden admissions. Contact: 718.623.7200. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am — 6:00pm
2012 Tribeca Film Festival Street Fair and Sports Day
The Tribeca Family Festival is a day of family fun and lively entertainment. Throughout the Street Fair you’ll find talented performers, dancers, stilt walkers, Broadway performances, arts and crafts, face painters, puppet shows, music, games and much more. Students from dozens of local schools will also be at the fair with performances and vibrant student artwork. The Street Fair will also host restaurants, merchants and organizations from the Tribeca neighborhood. This event is loads of fun for the entire family.
Details: Greenwich Street and N. Moore Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: info@tribecafilm.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am — 2:00pm
Healthy Kids Day at Dodge YMCA
Healthy Kids Day is a day full of activities for all ages that encourage kids and parents to commit to keeping the body and mind active. Join in for a day of cooking, family relay games, arts and crafts, face painting, healthy snacks, a special visit from the FDNY FireZone fire engine, and much more! There will also be an Open House for the Summer Day Camp.
Details: 225 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: npolanco@ymcanyc.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am — 4:00pm
Healthy Kids Day at Park Slope Armory YMCA
As part of the Y’s commitment to strengthen community by addressing critical gaps in health and education, Healthy Kids Day will encourage kids and parents to commit to keeping the body and mind active this summer. Join the Y and more than half-a-million parents and kids across the country as we commit to Take on Summer. Activities will include: basketball clinic, bounce houses, face painting, family Zumba, puppet show, rock climbing, Camp Open Houses, and MORE!
Details: 361 15th Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.912.2580. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am — 4:00pm
Healthy Kids Day at Bedford Stuyvesant YMCA
Healthy Kids Day is the nation’s largest health promotion and education day, celebrated across the country at over 1,900 YMCA branches. This annual Y event brings children and families together to provide the education, activities, and experiences that teach good health and foster positive connections through fitness, sports, and fun. As part of the Y’s commitment to strengthen New York City’s communities, Healthy Kids Day encourages kids and parents to commit together to keeping body and mind active this summer. This year’s Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA Healthy Kids Day activities for kids and grown-ups include: kids fencing, family african dance, kids relay races and much more!
Details: 1121 Bedford Avenue, Corner of Monroe Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: Fabiola at 212.912.2280. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th 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 28th from 11:00am — 4:00pm
5th Avenue Family Festival of Park Slope at Old Stone House
Okay… so, like, get excited for this! Really! This festival is going to be awesome! This family festival includes puppet and mask making, face painting, bouncy moon walk, cotton candy, hot dogs and more! Local BID restaurants like 7-Eleven and Baluchis will be selling food, and there will be live performances by local bands all day including the Berkley Carroll Jazz Band. Fuze Beverage will invite kids to create unique spin art with a bicycle and NY Life will give parents the chance to create ID kits for their kids. The first 200 kids will receive 5th Ave BID Gift Bags filled with tons of goodies. Special guests include Sandy the Seagull, the Good Neighbear from State Farm, and cameos by Star Wars Costume Volunteers from the 501st Empire City Garrison and the Echo Base Rebel Legion. Activities include $2.00 Games and Crafts, $4.00 Bouncy Moon Walk, $3.00 Snacks. Wheelchair accessible. Rain or shine so no excuses!
Details: 4th Street at 5th Ave Park Slope, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.768.3703. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th 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 Marvel Avengers LIVE performance and Meet & Greet! Woohoo!
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 28th 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 28th at 11:00am and 2:00pm
New York Children’s Theater Festival Presents: Scheme of the Super Bullies at Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater
When mad scientist Countess von Cooties forms the League of Super Bullies, fiercely independent superhero Princess Dodgeball must learn to accept help from her friends (and the audience) to save her school in this musical production.
Details: 5 West 63rd Street between Broadway and Central Park, NYC. Ages 6 and up. Cost: $18.00. Contact: info@newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th at 11:00am and 2:00pm
Just Kidding Presents: Caspar Babypants at Symphony Space
Caspar Babypants is Chris Ballew from the Presidents of the United States of America, making indie rock music for kids and their parents to enjoy at home, in the car, or on the moon. Caspar and his band will perform songs from the new CD “Hot Dog!”
Details: 2537 Broadway, NYC. Recommended for ages 3-9. Cost: $13-$20. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 12:00pm — 4:00pm
Jack and Jill Spring Street Fair at the Jack and Jill School
And here’s another reason to love spring — street fairs! Celebrate Spring with rides, crafts, games and great food at this wonderful annual street fair. It’s always fun for children and parents feel safe on bucolic 16th street, where cars are replaced by bouncy castles, carrousels and face painters.
Details: 209 East 16th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 1-8. FREE for all. Contact: cesquenazi@bigfoot.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 12:00pm — 5:00pm
Touch-A-Truck Brooklyn
Join in the fun for a fundraiser to benefit the PTA of PS 295! Be it rain or shine, over 20 vehicles are scheduled to take part in the event, along with their drivers/operators, who will be on hand to explain how these automobiles work and what purpose they serve in the community. Highlights include: FDNY fire truck, Ambulance, NYPD police car, Dump truck, DSNY Garbage truck, Tow Truck, School bus, Bucket trucks/cherry pickers, Sean Casey Animal Adoption Van, Concrete mixer, and Green-Wood Cemetery Trolley. Last year was a BLAST and this year promises to be even better. Need proof? Read our full review HERE.
Details: Length of 18th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues, Brooklyn — next to PS 295. All ages welcomed. Cost: $5/person; FREE for infants under 6 months. Contact: 718.965.0390. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th at 1:00pm
Saturday Family Programs: Brian Barrentine and His FunikiJam Friends at the Brooklyn Public Library Dweck Center
FunikiJam is jam packed with multicultural songs, storytelling, dancing, interactive learning, and fun. Seating is first come, first served.
Details: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.230.2100. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th: various times
NYC 19th Century Extravaganza
The New York City 19th Century Extravaganza is a three-day expo of historically-oriented events, demonstrations, and performances, all of which highlight aspects of nineteenth-century life in America, with a focus on New York City. The goal of the Extravaganza is to create an immersive educational experience and participants can dress up in their finest nineteenth-century attire if the choose. Fun, right? Here’s a schedule of events:
12:15 p.m.-1:45 p.m. – Victorian Unmentionables with garment historian Christine Evans
1:45 p.m.-2:00 p.m. – Intermission with tea/coffee and pastries
2:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. – The Atlantic Avenue Tunnel: The World’s First Subway with historian Bob Diamond
2:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. – Victorian Hand Sewing Class with designer/NYNCS founder Zoh Rothberg ($7.20)
2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. – Oscar Wilde in NYC Walking Tour with historian John Cooper ($16.52)
7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. – Victorian Medicinal Herbal Remedies, with herbalist Rebecca Fey Collins ($11.34)
4:30 p.m.-7:45 p.m. – Drinking in the 19th-Century: A Guided Pub Crawl of the South Street Seaport with NYNCS member Rachel Klingberg ($7.20)
Details: Third Street at 5th Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $0-$16. Contact: 718.768.3195. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th from 2:00pm — 4:00pm
Family Astro Program: Eclipse in the Solar System at Pupin Physics Laboratories, Columbia University
Okay, so I know this is all the way on the Upper West Side, but I’m a little biased being that Columbia is my two-time alma mater and all. But, really… how cool is this event?! The theme will be “Eclipses in the Solar System” in order to look forward to the upcoming Transit of Venus in June (http://www.transitofvenus.org/). There will be a tour of the observatory and then activities to explore how and when eclipses (or more generally transits) occur in our Solar System and why the transit of Venus is especially significant. If the skies are clear, participants will also try to observe the sun. Family Astro is open to kids ages 6 – 12 but space is limited for this event. To RSVP, send an email to familyastro.cu@gmail.com and let them know how many kids will be coming and what their ages are.
Details: Broadway and 116th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 6 –12. FREE for all. Contact: 212.854.4608 or familyastro.cu@gmail.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th 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 28th at 2:30pm
Literacy Quilt Reading Series: Pat Cummings at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Author/illustrator Pat Cummings will be reading from “Clean Your Room, Harvey Moon” and “Harvey Moon, Museum Boy.” She’ll answer audience questions and sign copies of her books.
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $7.50. Contact: 718.735.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, April 28th 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 29TH
Sunday, April 29th from 10:00am — 6:00pm
Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival at Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
This will be a weekend celebrating traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. There will be Taiko Drumming, manga artists, J-Pop bands, Tea ceremonies, Samurai sword fighting, cosplay fashion show, bonsai demonstrations, Minbu Folk dancing, kids’ workshops, puzzle plaza and much more! Come prepared because festivals will be held, rain or shine!
Details: 1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE with garden admissions. Contact: 718.623.7200. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th: various times
NYC 19th Century Extravaganza
The New York City 19th Century Extravaganza is a three-day expo of historically-oriented events, demonstrations, and performances, all of which highlight aspects of nineteenth-century life in America, with a focus on New York City. The goal of the Extravaganza is to create an immersive educational experience and participants can dress up in their finest nineteenth-century attire if the choose. Fun, right? Here’s a schedule of events:
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – 19th-Century Base Ball Game
12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. – Open Air Figure Drawing with Hal Hirshorn
1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. – Bartitsu: The Lost Martial Art of Sherlock Holmes
12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. – Old Time Photo Booth presented by R.A. Friedman
3:00 p.m.-4:15 p.m. – Steampunk and Neo-Victorian Fashion Show
4:30 p.m.-5:45 p.m. – Outdoor Hearth Cooking Demonstration with historic gastronomist and NYNCS founder Sarah Lohman
Details: Third Street at 5th Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $0-$16. Contact: 718.768.3195. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th 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 Marvel Avengers LIVE performance and Meet & Greet! Woohoo!
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 29th 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 29th at 11:30am
KindieFest: A Family Music Festival at Littlefield
Come ready to parrrrtttyyy! Steve Songs, Bari Koral Family Rock Band, Moona Luna, We Bop, Big Bang Boom, KBC Kids, and Apple Brains will be on-hand to help you rock out to the beat! Please note: all strollers must be checked in before entering the show.
Details: 622 Degraw Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $12-$15. Contact: juki@littlefieldnyc.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th at 12:00pm — 1:00pm
Story Time at Books of Wonder
Each week, we choose several books from our shelves (based on the age of the children attending) and sit down with children and their parents.
Details: 18 West 18th Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.989.3270 or email store@booksofwonder.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th at 12:30pm
Literacy Quilt Reading Series: John and Wendy at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Artists, writers, and illustrators, John and Wendy will read from their Periwinkle Smith series, answer questions, and sign copies of their work.
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $7.50/person. Contact: 718.735.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th 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 29, 2012 at 2pm
West Point Band’s Jazz Knights
As official ambassadors of the United States Military Academy, the West Point Band’s Jazz Knights present the best in big band favorites, popular music, and original compositions and arrangements for jazz ensemble.
Tickets: Free.
Details: Performances at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts. BY SUBWAY : #2 train to Brooklyn College/Flatbush Avenue. Exit the station via the staircase at the very front of the train. Walk to the corner and take a right onto Campus Road. Follow Campus Road approximately a block and a half and enter the college campus via the gate on your left. Ask at the guard booth for directions to Walt Whitman Theatre. Check www.mta.info for possible weekend service changes. BY BUS : In Brooklyn, B41, B44, B6, B11, B103 and Q35. BY CAR : For Google Maps or any GPS navigational device, the address for our parking lot is 2700 Avenue H, Brooklyn NY
Sunday, April 29th 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 29th 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 29th 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 29th 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 29th from 4:00pm — 5:00pm
Kids Reading By Mac Barnett and Taeeun Yoo at powerHouse Arena
Readings by: Mac Barnett, author of Chloe & the Lion and Taeeun Yoo, author and illustrator of You Are a Lion! And Other Fun Yoga Poses. Please RSVP!
Details: 37 Main Street, Brooklyn. Ages 3 — 8. FREE for all. Contact: 718.666.3049 or kids@PowerHouseArena.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th at 5:00pm and 7:00pm
“Hamlet” Performance by Shakespeare Players at St. Francis’ College Theater in Brooklyn Heights
This weekend, 14 kids ages 7-10 will be performing an adaptation of “Hamlet.” For months, they have been rehearsing a cutting of the play that leaves the language intact and lets them delve into the story and characters in an incredibly mature and exciting way. If you’ve got a Shakespeare lover on your hands, this play is a must-see. Check out the video trailer right here and get excited!
Details: Brooklyn Heights. Contact Jocelyn at jocelyn@childsplayny.com for reservations. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, April 29th 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.