Happy Friday Brooklyn! We hope everyone enjoyed the short week and you’re geared up for a fantabulous weekend. There are tons of events this weekend – so get ready to start jotting them down! This will be the last weekend for The Red Balloon at Canal Park Playhouse so if you’d like to see it, plan accordingly. On Saturday, there are several street fairs and parties, which truly excites me. (If only I had a clone so that I can attend them all!) Sunday, you can enjoy Face the Music at PS 321 or City Stomp at Littlefield or several other fun activities. Take your pick! Don’t forget to visit our events calendar and music listings for more fun activities! Have a lovely weekend!
ALL WEEKEND
Saturday, June 2nd — Sunday, June 3rd: various times
The Red Balloon at Canal Park Playhouse
Enjoy screenings of Albert Lamorisse’s film The Red Balloon (Le Ballon Rouge) — the tale of a boy named Pascal and his adventures with the balloon that follows him though the streets of Paris. Cartoons from Popeye and Casper the Friendly Ghost will precede the screening. The screenings runs from Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, June 3, Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. Brunch and dinner is available before or after the screenings at the Playhouse’s Waffle Iron Cafe.
Details: 508 Canal Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. Cost: $7/person. Contact: 866-811-4111 or info@canalparkplayhouse.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 11am — 1pm and Sunday, June 3rd from 1pm — 3pm
FREE Drop-In Workshops at Botanic Garden
At these classes, children will participate in hands-on activities like planting carrots, caring for plants and even get to go on scavenger hunts. Story time is also included – and all stories have a reference to the natural world of course.
Details: 150 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd — Sunday, June 3rd from 11am — 3pm
Free Arts Island Outpost 2012 on Governor’s Island
The Children’s Museum of the Arts free arts island programming inside and surrounding buildings 11 & 14 in Nolan Park. Participants can choose from a variety of hands on art projects and art-viewing experiences, including artist-led workshops, self-guided art stations, large collaborative projects, sound design, animation, podcasting and more. Additionally, select artwork from CMA’s permanent collection of over 2,000 pieces of children’s artwork will be on display in building 14 and select children’s made films from our unique Media Lab collection will be screened in building 11. Each day a guided workshop will accompany the collection exhibit and film screening to further enrich the art and film viewing.
Details: Governor’s Island Nolan Park. Ages 12 and under. FREE for all.
Friday, June 1st – 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, June 1st – 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, June 1st — 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, June 2nd — 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, June 1st — 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 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. 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. One mother, Gretchen, cautioned that, “It features a lot of his angry work including beastiality and I found it inappropriate for young kids. The tiny partition has two great videos of him painting a canvas on the floor, but the rest of the room is peppered with older content kind of stuff and there’s only one way in and out. Ended up with a nice reason to see the collection at BMA though.” Perhaps 10 years and up is best for this one.
Details: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn. Telephone: 718.638.5000. Visit the website for more information.
All Summer
Food’s up
One of the best changes to Brooklyn Bridge Park last year was the addition of great food vendors. What is still missing: shade! A lot of the vendors will be opening this weekend so it’s a perfect time to head to the park, or hop on the ferry or just chill and score a great lunch. I will be heading to my favorites Bark Hot Dogs and Ditch Plains and summer wouldn’t be complete without an ice cream from Uncle Louie G or Blue Marble. The full list of park vendors and their operating hours is here.
FRIDAY JUNE 1ST
Friday, June 1st 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:718.666.3049oremailkids@powerHouseArena.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, June 1st 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, June 1st 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, June 1st 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, June 1st at 6:30pm
19th Annual Red Hook Fest at PS 15
This event will feature world-class music, dance, and spoken word poetry as well as over 150 young artists from across Brooklyn. The theme of this year’s Red Hook Fest is “Women’s Work: Healing Our Community.” This year’s professional artist line-up include: Maya Azucena, Mahogany Browne, KR3TS, La Bruja, and Soul Steps.
Details: 71 Sullivan Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.643.6790. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, June 1st from 6:30pm — 9:30pm
Project Playdate at Kidville
Project Playdate hosts their monthly evening and special event childcare program where parents can enjoy a night out while their children have fun. Project Playdate provides dinner, story time, arts & crafts, games, live music, and more. Please email Caitlin Tucker (address above) if your child has any special dietary restrictions. Please be sure that your child wears socks to the event, as shoes and bare feet are not allowed in the play areas.
Details: 67 E. 11th Street, NYC. Ages 1–7. Cost: $45/1 child; $70/2 children; $95/3 children. Contact: 516.807.0447 or tucker.caitlin@gmail.com. Visit the website for more information.
Friday, June 1st at 8pm
Dancewave’s Spring Celebration Performance 2012 at LIU’s Kumble Theater
This performance will consist of a stunning showcase of modern dance repertory featuring the talented youth of the Dancewave Companies performing works by some of today’s most celebrated choreographers such as Ronald K. Brown, Andrea Miller, Nathan Trice, Nicole Wolcott, Jamal Jackson, and many more!
Details: One University Plaza, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $25 and up. Contact: 718.488-1624. Visit the website for more information.
SATURDAY JUNE 2ND
Saturday, June 2nd from 10am — 12pm
High Line Kids: Arty Hours at 23rd Street Lawn
Between the rich colors and textures you’ll find in the planting beds to the unique site-specific art works curated by High Line Art, the High Line holds inspiration for creative minds of all ages. During Arty Hours, families are invited to drop-in to experiment with painting, drawing, and building materials from our Art Hub to create their own masterpieces to take home. Then, join for a hunt for High Line Art works spread throughout the park.
Details: On the High Line between West 22nd and West 23rd Streets, NYC. Ages 4 and up. FREE for all. Contact: 212.206-9922. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd at 10am
World Science Festival: Science on Site at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Science comes to life in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Join adventurous researchers for a day of family-friendly exploration in one of the city’s most dynamic waterfront parks, a green oasis with rolling hills and breathtaking views. Discover incredible marine life through an ancient fishing technique, join a leading botanist for a park-wide botanical safari, learn the engineering secrets of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, and more
Details: Furman Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.348.1400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd beginning at 10am
The Coop School Presents “Little Red Riding Hood”
Arts and Crafts will start at 10:00 am and the show will start at 11:15 sharp. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair. Rain location: The Coop School, which is located at 87 Irving Place between Putnam and Fulton.
Details: Putnam Triangle, at Grand and Fulton, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all.
Saturday, June 2nd 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, June 2nd at 11am
FREE Demo Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals class at Narrows Botanical Garden
Come sing-along to fun lively music (as seen on Nick Jr.!), dance with colorful scarves, play egg shakers and other instruments. Led by Anna Banana, bass player for the official Music for Aardvarks live band and singer of the Anna Banana Band.
Details: Enter on Shore Road between Bay Ridge Ave avenue and 72nd Street, Brooklyn. Ages 4 months to 6 years. FREE for all. Contact: Anna at: info@musicforbayridge.com or (614)530-3752. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd 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 Ferdinand the Bull on Mainstage! 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, June 2nd 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! Please note: This saturday, Greenlight is pulling out all the stops with a reading with the bestselling author PETER BROWN. **Squeals**
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, June 2nd from 11am — 4pm
PS 84 2nd Annual Garden Party
The 2nd PS 84 Annual Garden Party features a pig roast, live music, art and crafts, raffle, face painting and a science show. Enjoy music, tons of kid’s activities and great food. Also, PS 84 will unveil their GREENHOUSE CLASSROOM the schools plans for a state-of-the-art hydroponic laboratory classroom.
Details: 250 Berry Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE admission with fees for certain activities and food. Contact: 718.384.8063. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd at 11am and 1pm
Baby Sign Language Workshop
Children can likely give high-fives, wave goodbye, or blow kisses long before they are able to say the words ‘high five’ or ‘goodbye’. Babies (ages 6 – 18 months) understand far more words than they are able to say. This is simply because they haven’t developed enough control yet over their vocal chords and mouth for speech. By using Baby Sign Language (basic vocabulary from American Sign Language) children are given the tools to communicate before they acquires speech. Children can learn to sign ‘’more’’, ‘‘all done’’, ‘‘change my diaper’’, ‘’sleepy’’, ‘food’’ and lots more. Think of how much easier life could be when you can understand what children want or need. Using sign lessens frustration and increases bonding, and it is easy to learn. Details: 445 Bergen Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for birth to 18 months. Cost: $40/individual and baby; $50/couple and baby. Contact: Melissa@signingup.net or call 347.778.1775. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd beginning at 11am
Local Produce in the Gardens in Park Slope
Enjoy a day of fresh local dance, music, theater and plants in three of Park Slope’s most luscious community gardens followed by indoor performances and a swing dance party to live big band music.
Location of performances:
11am — 12pm: Warren / St. Marks Garden (Warren Street between 4th & 5th Avenues)
12:30-1:30 pm: Garden of Union (4th Avenue & Union Street)
2:00-3:00 pm: Greenspace @ President Street (5th Avenue & President Street)
4:00-5:00 pm: Dance, Music & Theater at Berkeley-Carroll Performance Space (181 Lincoln Place)
5:00-6:00 pm: Adult Professional Artists Showcase
7:30-11:00 pm: Swing Dance Party at Brooklyn Conservatory of Music
Please Note: “Local Produce in the Gardens” will happen light rain or shine. In case of torrential rain, the rain date is Sunday, June 3. All garden times remain the same at the same location. All indoor events, however, will be presented in Spoke the Husb’s penthouse theater at Gowanus Arts, 295 Douglass Street, Brooklyn.
Details: Parks and gradens in Park Slope, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.622.3300. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 11am — 6pm
Kids Activities and Live Music at DeKalb Market
Uproar Art will partner with Project Collective to offer a day of free fun and activities at the Dekalb Market for all ages. Uproar Will offer free art making workshops throughout the day. Then, after regular market hours, from 6 – 10 pm, the Project Collective presents performances by local bands on the main stage. We’ll be collecting donations all day to help support Uproar’s efforts in the community to create free and low cost art education.
Details: 138 Willoughby Street, Brooklyn. Ages 6 –12. FREE for all (donations welcomed). Contact: uproarart@gmail.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 12pm — 3pm
5th Annual SummerFest in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill
Join in for a day of Brooklyn community, food, and fun! Delicious food and goodies from local businesses, hot dogs and hamburgers, ice cream, games, face painting, jewelry making, and the Brooklyn Steppers! The event will take place in the park right next to the school.
Details: 225 Adelphi Street, Brooklyn. In the park. All ages welcomed.
Saturday, June 2nd from 12pm — 4pm
PS 8 Paddlewheel Festival
PS 8 will be hosting its annual Paddlewheel Festival/Street Fair. Activites will includes bouncy houses, slides, rides, arts and crafts, face painting, games, races, climbing fire trucks and more. PS 8 will also host a tag sale. Music and food available.
Details: 37 Hicks Street, Brooklyn. Ages 10 and under. FREE admissions with fees for activities. Contact: 718.834.6740. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 12pm — 6pm
Amble: BBG’s June Jubilee at Brooklyn Botanical Garden
BBG is laying out the welcome mat to celebrate the opening of the new Visitor Center. From West African cora music to groovy ’60s jazz, the Garden will be buzzing with joyful melodies. Enjoy sensory strolls around the grounds, tour the new Urban Garden summer exhibit, and explore an interactive solar-powered sound installation. Learn about the art of tea and the science of composting while kids pot up lemon balm plants. Indulge in tea-inspired cocktails, aromatic drinks, and delicious snacks.
Details: 150 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE with museum admission. Contact: 718.623.7200. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 12pm — 7pm
19th Annual Red Hook Fest at Louis J. Valentino, Jr. Park & Pier
This event will feature world-class music, dance, and spoken word poetry as well as over 150 young artists from across Brooklyn. The theme of this year’s Red Hook Fest is “Women’s Work: Healing Our Community.” This year’s professional artist line-up include: Maya Azucena, Mahogany Browne, KR3TS, La Bruja, and Soul Steps.
Details: Entrance near 201 Coffey Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.643.6790. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd at 1pm
Irondale Theater Camp Open House at Irondale Arts Center
Learn about our two summer programs at the Irondale Center. Meet and greet with summer staff and the Irondale Ensemble, take a backstage tours, create your own ice cream sundaes and take part in fun, creative theater games! Led by professional Irondale Artists, young actors will experience various game-based workshops throughout the day. Workshops range from acting techniques, improvisation, movement/dance and character creation to storytelling, playwriting, and intro to design. Instructors encourage students to explore the power of creativity and develop an artistic voice. All sessions conclude with a performance for family and friends.
Details: 85 South Oxford Street, Brooklyn. Ages 6 –15. FREE for all. Contact: press@irondale.org. Visit the website for information.
Saturday, June 2nd 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, June 2nd 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, June 2nd from 3:30pm — 5pm
Double Bill: The Good Ms Padgett and The Ukeladies at Jalopy Theater
The Good Ms Padgett: For her second full-length album, The Good Ms. Padgett Sings The Little Red Hen and Other Stories (March 2012), The Good Ms. Padgett offers her unique musical interpretations of four classic stories: “The Little Red Hen,” “Goldilocks,” “Henny Penny,” and “The Billy Goats Gruff.” Developed as a way to actively engage her preschool and Kindergarten students in the magic and drama of these favorite tales, The Good Ms. Padgett’s story/songs are funny, original, earnest and whimsical. In recent months The Good Ms. Padgett has been introducing audiences to her stories as part of Elizabeth Mitchell’s East Coast shows, as well as playing some shows of her own. Padgett’s husband, Miggy Littleton (Ida, White Magic, Blood on the Wall) provides musical accompaniment, while daughter Penelope leads young audiences in movement and manages crowd control.
The Ukeladies: The Ukuladies are a perpetually-touring, twin-sister, aunt, and one tap-dancing-cousin act from Regina, Canada with a lust for life and its idle curiosities. Fraternal twins Genevieve and Jimmy Lu, with Aunt Mary Louise, and Cousin Bunnie grew up together in a close and large family – – that was big. They played music together under the tutelage of various uncles and an occasional grandmother who nurtured the girls’ love of small instruments that make plinky sounds. Seeing and more importantly hearing their talents, a relative at a family picnic said “hey….you gals oughta get outa here and play somewhere else!!” So, they took that advice and headed for bigger prospects….in Winnipeg! From there on, they became the infamous Ukuladies who are proud to have hit nearly every Holiday Inn on the Eastern seaboard. Come and join the “ladies” as they share cowboy love songs, Ruth Wallis medleys, faves from the 30s and 40s, and a host of original hits!
Details: 315 Columbia Street btw Hamilton and Woodhull, Brooklyn. Ages 7 and under. Cost: $8 each, $25 for family of 4. Contact: 718.395.3214. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd from 5pm — 11pm
Target First Saturday: Best of Brooklyn Block Party at The Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum’s June 2 Target First Saturdayscelebrates the beginning of summer with a night of music, dancing, games, contests, and food at the Best of Brooklyn Block Party. Pretty awesome, huh?
Details: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 718.638.5000. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd at 5pm and 6:30pm
A Princess Show at Adventurer’s Amusement Park
This 20-minute children’s musical features professional singers and dancers as well as Cinderella and Tinkerbell interacting with the kids with sing-alongs and more to help solve a great mystery. Pretty neat, right?
Details: All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: amsbano@gmail.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, June 2nd at 8pm
Dancewave’s Spring Celebration Performance 2012 at LIU’s Kumble Theater
This performance will consist of a stunning showcase of modern dance repertory featuring the talented youth of the Dancewave Companies performing works by some of today’s most celebrated choreographers such as Ronald K. Brown, Andrea Miller, Nathan Trice, Nicole Wolcott, Jamal Jackson, and many more!
Details: One University Plaza, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $25 and up. Contact: 718.488-1624. Visit the website for more information.
SUNDAY JUNE 3RD
Sunday, June 3rd from 10am — 11am
Zumba Fundraiser for Ear to Ear Foundation at Stars Studio of Performing Arts
Join Ear to Ear Foundation for their first Zumba fundraiser event. The Ear to Ear foundation helps kids born with Microtia/Atrecia, a congenital deformity where the external ear is underdeveloped, get the special bone conducting hearing aids they need to hear with their “little” ears. To join the event please make a $25 donation on their site.
Details: 8777 19th Avenue, Brooklyn. Ages 10 and up. Cost: $25. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 10am — 12pm
High Line Kids: Arty Hours at the 23rd Street Lawn
Between the rich colors and textures you’ll find in the planting beds to the unique site-specific art works curated by High Line Art the High Line holds inspiration for creative minds of all ages. During Arty Hours, we invite families to drop-in to experiment with painting, drawing, and building materials from our Art Hub to create their own masterpieces to take home. Then, join in on a hunt for High Line Art works spread throughout the park.
Details: On the High Line between West 22nd and West 23rd Streets, NYC. Ages 4 and up. FREE for all. Contact: 212.206.9922. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 10am — 1pm
Farm In The City Fair at The 14th Street Y
Come on down to the 14th Street Y for a day of good ol’ farm fun! The 3rd Annual Farm in the City Fair brings the country right into the city with lots of activities, food, fun & surprises – perfect for little ones (ages 6 and under) and their families. Activities will include: live farm animal petting zoo (rabbits, chickens & more), musical concerts, a beekeeping exhibit, carnival games, bouncy castles, face painting, and a Farm Stand with lunch, yummy treats and drinks for sale. There will also be a playroom filled with farm toys for the really little tykes (ages 3 and under). Kids are encouraged to dress up in their finest farmer or farm animal gear for this event!
Details: 344 East 14th Street, NYC. Ages 6 and under. Cost: $20 per family in advance / $25 per family at door. Contact: 212.780.0800. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 10am — 6pm
The Ultimate Science Street Fair at Washington Square Park
The popular Science Street Fair returns to Washington Square Park with another action-packed day of interactive exhibits, experiments, games and shows, all designed to entertain and inspire. Visit a telepathy lab and control a computer just by thinking about it, learn the science tricks to shooting perfect free-throws with NBA stars, create your own fragrance at the Smell Lab, ride a square-wheeled tricycle, and much more!
Details: 1 5th Avenue, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.348.1400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 10:30am — 12:30pm
Center for Anti-Violence Education’s 7th Annual Punch-A-Thon! at Prospect Park
CAE’s Punch-a-Thon is a fun day in Prospect Park where kids and teens can learn from trained self-defense instructors, face paint and win prizes to help our non-profit spread community awareness about violence prevention and raise $50,000.
Details: Prospect Park. All are welcomed. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd 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 Ferdinand the Bull on Mainstage! 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, June 3rd from 11am — 4pm
Health and Safety Day at J&R Jr.
Here is a schedule of the events:
11AM – Save A Tot Founder Pamela Brewer RN, C.C.E., Certified American Heart and First Aid Instructor will cover safety topics including choking hazards, Heimlich Maneuver, drowning prevention, summer safety, and falls.
12PM – Liza Huber CEO and Founder of Sage Bears, LLC and creator of Sage Spoonfuls to discuss starting your baby on solids, preventing picky eating, and how to provide healthy, homemade baby food.
1PM – Gigi Lee Chang, CEO of Healthy Child Healthy World, a non-profit that provided information & resources to empower parents to protect their children from harmful chemicals. She is also the Founder of Plum Organics and will show you 5 easy ways to reduce toxins in your home.
2PM – Cricket Azima, Founder of The Creative Kitchen works with food companies offering services including spokesperson, recipe development and testing, writing, teaching, family outreach, blogging, creating webisodes, and consulting. Cricket will be giving tips on how to cook for and with toddlers.
3PM – Cricket and The Creative Kitchen will lead a FREE cooking session for kids ages 2 to 5.
Details: 1 Park Row, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Contact: 212.238.9060. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd 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, June 3rd at 12:00pm — 1:00pm
Story Time at Books of Wonder
Each week, they choose several books (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: 212.989.3270oremailstore@booksofwonder.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 12pm — 6pm
Family Fun Featuring Frolic! Rock Fest at Citistorage
“Family Fun on the Williamsburg Pier,” a rockin’ outdoor entertainment festival and free concert for families presented by Elaine and Norm Brodsky to benefit Camp Brooklyn. This go-to family event overlooking the spectacular East River will feature children’s amusement rides, BBQ food, Brooklyn Brewery beer, Italian ices and ice cream by Uncle Louie G’s, and the Frolic! Rock Fest – a free concert showcasing rock ‘n’ roll inspired activities and a lineup of popular family bands and rock artists including Little Rock-its by Frolic! with Tim Kubart of Tim and the Space Cadets, AudraRox, Suzi Shelton, Larry g(EE), Topsy Bonsai and the Tangs featuring Tracy Bonham, Maracatu NY, and DJ sets by Wyllys.
Details: 5 North 11th Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE with fees for activities. Contact: Auster Agency: 718.243.1414. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd 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, June 3rd from 1pm — 8pm
Brooklyn Beat Music and Art Festival at The Paper Box
In addition to an indoor music area, guests can revel under the stars in the outdoor art garden and soak up compelling video and art installations, and participate in interactive fashion! Francescacake will sponsor organic cupcakes, and a kid-centric musical performance by Jon Samson of CoCreative Music will take place at 2pm. Brazilian Jazz and DJs will play in the afternoon. In the evening, Gashouse Films will present a diverse selection of short films from NYC’s emerging film talent. Food will be available for sale. There will be something for everyone! The line-up includes: Music: Ze Luis Quartet, Jon Samson (CoCreative Music), Inky Glass DJs: Jeannie Hopper (Liquid Sound Lounge), Gatto (AFP) Film screenings from Gashouse Films at 6:30pm Performance art curated by Caridad Sola Art installations in the garden from artists Max Greis, Jeanne Wilkinson Fashion Installations by Paula Collins and Allyson Jacobs.
Details: 17 Meadow Street, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $5, but free for children 12 and under. Contact: events@artforprogress.org. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd 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, June 3rd 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, June 3rd 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, June 3rd at 3pm
Face the Music at PS 321
The Neighborhood Classics Series, hosted by pianist Simone Dinnerstein, features Face the Music in a program that includes Osvaldo Golijov’s “Last Round,” Steve Martland’s “Horses of Instruction,” Anna Clyne’s short quartet “Primula Vulgaris,” and Robert Honstein’s “Night Mixes.” Praised for “stunning performances” by The New York Times, Face the Music is an alternative-classical ensemble of more than sixty talented teenagers from over twenty New York area middle and high schools. The Neighborhood Classics Series was founded by Simone Dinnerstein; proceeds of the Neighborhood Classics performances are donated to the hosting schools.
Details: 180 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn. Ages 5 and up. Cost: $15. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd from 3pm — 5pm
Understanding Your Newborn: Soothing, Settling, and Centering at Caribou Baby
A workshop for expecting parents in the last trimester and parents with newborns up to 3 weeks old. Participants will learn to understand their baby’s non verbal communication, newborn sleep behaviors and how to establish sleep rituals, newborn signs of over stimulation, techniques for soothing and settling, typical crying patterns, how to talk to your baby and why this is important, essential tummy time basics and more. You will also gain tools for successful parenting in this workshop. Participants will receive the book CALMS, a HUG review pamphlet, and have the opportunity to purchase their own HUG DVD. FYI: This workshop is taught by Ellynne Skove, MA, LCAT, BC-DMT, NCC, RPP, a specialist in pre and perinatal psychology and health. Ellynne is a certified HUG teacher in newborn communication, the founder of GoGo Babies parenting support programs and the highly popular baby yoga and developmental movement classes. Ellynne is licensed New York therapist with a private practice that incorporates energy medicine and somatic healing practices. She is a Brooklyn resident of 26 years and the mother of two.
Details: 272 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn. Recommended for adults with infants. Cost: $35. Contact: info@cariboubaby.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd at 3pm
City Stomp Live at Littlefield
Take one measure of melodies about familiar city sights. Add a pinch of rousing punk rock versions of classic children’s songs. Sprinkle with a blend of multi-cultural tunes flavored with a rock sensibility. Stir well with lots of audience enthusiasm from both children and adults and you’ll come up with a City Stomp concert. The Brooklyn-based band, whose last two Littlefield shows sold out in advance, features five veteran musicians, two of whom will be familiar to children who take the City Stomp music classes held in multiple locations around Brooklyn.
Details: 622 Degraw Street, between Third and Fourth Avenues, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Cost: $10. Contact: 718.855.3388. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, June 3rd 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.