Museums

Visit
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration at CMOM
Stop by the museum for a day of events: Kids (ages 4 and under; 10am & 1pm) can help make a collage that celebrates NYC’s diversity, plus hear a performance by the world-famous Harlem Gospel Choir (3pm & 4pm).
When: Mon. 1/16; Free with museum admission.
Where: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 West 83rd St., 212-721-1223, cmom.org.

Do
Child First Aid & CPR
In this 2-hour class, learn the current A.H.A and Red Cross guidelines of child (ages 1-10) First Aid and CPR.
When: Sat. 1/14, 1pm; $75 (call to register).
Where: Prenatal Yoga Center, 251 West 72nd St., Suite 2F, 212-362-2985, prenatalyogacenter.com.

Go
Let’s Join Hands
Little ones can learn Martin Luther King’s message of friendship and love, explore the differences in various cultures and create a hand wreath to take home.
When: Sat. 1/14 2:30pm, Sun. 1/15 2:30pm, Mon. 1/16 11:3oam; Ages 5 and under.
Where: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Brooklyn, 718-735-4400, brooklynkids.org.

See
Circus in a Trunk
Catch a trio of charming clowns, who decide to perform the circus themselves when the original troupe never arrives — even better, they pull out the entire performance out of an antique trunk.
When: Sat. & Sun. through 1/29, 2pm & 4pm; $20.
Where: Canal Park Playhouse, 508 Canal St., 866-811-4111, canalparkplayhouse.com.

Go
35th Annual Three Kings Day Parade
Join El Museo del Barrio’s colorful celebration with camels, music, puppets and dancing in a procession through the streets of El Barrio in East Harlem.
When: Fri. 1/6, 10:30am-12pm; Free.
Where: 106th St. & Madison Ave. to 115th St. & Park Ave., elmuseo.org.

Do
Big Apple Circus
Catch acrobats, jugglers, trapeze flyers, animals and more in the final NYC weekend of Dream Big.
When: Through Sun., 1/8, $15-$95.
Where: Lincoln Center Plaza, bigapplecircus.org.

Hear
The Power of Eight
Hear multicultural music at Carnegie Hall, as musicians, instruments and cultures from around the globe (including Israel, Syria and Jordan) come together to promote peace.
When: Sun. 1/8, 8pm; All ages; $35-$85 (40% off for kids 12 and under).
Where: Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall, 154 West 57th St. at 7th Ave., 212-247-7800, listenforlife.org.

Shop
Polarn O. Pyret
The simple Swedish kiddie brand newly launched stateside is discounting its winter wear up to 50 percent off, in stores (UWS and Tribeca) and online.
Where: 200 Chambers St., 428 Columbus Ave., polarnopyretusa.com.

Happy New Year!

Visit
Happy 2012 at CMOM
Kids can stop by on Saturday to create colorful noise makers and add their wishes to the museum’s mural.
When: Sat. 12/31, 10am-12pm & 1-4pm; All ages; Free with museum admission.
Where: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 West 83rd St., 212-721-1223, cmom.org.

See
NYE Fireworks at Prospect Park
It’s not quite as balmy as July, but this special holiday fireworks display includes entertainment and toasty drinks.
When: Sat. 12/31, 11pm; All ages; Free.
Where: Prospect Park, Grand Army Plaza (check the website for best locations), prospectpark.org.

Go
Golden Dragon Acrobats
Cheer on this world-famous Chinese cirque featuring death-defying acrobats, jugglers and contortionists.
When: Through Sat. 12/31, 2pm & 7pm; $32 or 4 for $100.
Where: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Avenue South, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, 718-760-0064, queenstheatre.org.

Eat
Family Twilight New Year’s Eve Party
Neely’s Barbecue Parlor hosts an early supper for families to ring in the new year. Toast 2012 with sparkling mocktails, a three-course kids menu, pinata ball drop, cupcake decorating and a kiddie dance floor. For the adults, executive chef Wade Burch is whipping up a menu featuring unique takes on classic Southern dishes.
When: Sat. 12/31, 4pm; $12.95/Kids, $59.95/Adults.
Where: Neely’s, 1125 First Ave., 212-832-1551, neelysbbqparlor.com.

Happy holidays!<

Visit
Wreath Interpretations
In this 29th annual holiday tradition, an exhibition of more than 30 wreaths features designs from classic to contemporary. See traditional wreaths made from birch bark and harvested rice stalks, and eclectic examples with paintbrushes, chopsticks and piano keys.
When: Every Mon.-Fri. through 1/12, 9am-5pm; Free.
Where: Arsenal Gallery in Central Park, 830 Fifth Ave. (at 64th St.), 3rd floor, 212-360-8163, nycgovparks.org.

Go
The Three Bears Holiday Bash
Celebrate the season with song, dance and puppetry as Baby Bear invites Santa to star in the family’s holiday show. This comedy of errors includes stories from Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa.
When: Thurs.-Fri., 12/22-12/23, 10:30am & 12pm, $8/Adults, $5/Kids (reservations required, see website for additional dates).
Where: Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, Central Park at 79th St. & West Drive, 212-988-9093, cityparksfoundation.org.

See
Holiday Screenings
Head to the SONY Wonder Technology Lab for fun holiday showings of flicks like A Sesame Christmas Carol, Dora’s Christmas Carol Adventure and Elmo’s World: Happy Holidays. Check the website for times, and stay for special post-movie workshops to make a cookie jar, picture frame or snow globe.
When: Thurs.-Fri., 12/22-12/23, times vary; Free.
Where: SONY Wonder Technology Lab, SONY Plaza, 56th St. & Madison Ave., 212-833-8100, sonywondertechlab.com.

Hear
The Macaroons
Catchy pop-rock tunes, big harmonies and irresistible melodies get everyone in the Hanukkah spirit at this family concert.
When: Sun. 12/25, 11am, 1pm, 3pm; Ages 5+; $20/Adults, $15/Kids.
Where: The Jewish Museum, 1109 5th Ave. at 92nd St., 212-423-3337, thejewishmuseum.org.

Go
Alexander Doll Company Holiday Tree Trimming
Help decorate the doll factory’s tree at this annual event. Take a free tour of the historic workshop, enjoy snacks and get a discount on dolls and create-a-doll classes.
When: Sat. 12/17, 9am-5pm.
Where: Alexander Doll Company, 615 West 131st St., 6th floor, madamealexander.com.

Hear
Moey’s Family Concert
Get into the holiday spirit with festive tunes from Moey’s Music Party. Get ready for a bubble bonanza, pompons and interactive songs, plus all kids get a free copy of Moey’s new CD.
When: Sun. 12/18, 11am; $15 (kids under age 1 free).
Where: Museum of Motherhood, 401 East 84th St. bet. 1st Ave. & York, 877-711-6667, moeymusicparty.com.

See
Amahl and the Night Visitors
The Little Orchestra Society celebrates the 100th anniversary of composer Gian Carlo Menotti and the 60th anniversary of the beloved opera with a special holiday performance. Celebrate the color and excitement of Three Kings Day, with themes of hope, joy, kindness, love and generosity.
When: Sat. 12/17, 11am & 1pm; Ages 6-12; $15-$45.
Where: Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, 212-971-9500, littleorchestra.org.

ReadNew Pregnancy Workout Guidelines
A recent review of studies in Obstetrics and Gynecology gives pregnant women the green light to do vigorous cardio. Equinox weighs in on what it all means, and how much is too much.
Where: equinox.com.

Shop
Brooklyn Lyceum Holiday Marketplace
Start crossing off your shopping list with more than 50 vendors, from holistic vegan soaps and colorful cartoons to vintage linens, whimsical French jewelry and Belgian waffles. Kids can get their picture taken with Santa and enjoy other holiday activities.
When: Sat.-Sun., 12/17-12/18, 11am-7pm.
Where: 227 4th Ave. at President St., Brooklyn, lyceummarkets.com.

Happy Thanksgiving!

See
Angelina Ballerina, The Very Merry Holiday Musical
See the adorable little mouse twirl her way through saving a special holiday pageant.
When: Sat.-Sun., 11/26-11/27, 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Through 1/2; Ages 3-12; $29.50-$49.50.
Where: McGinn/Cazale Theatre, 2162 Broadway at 76th St., 4th floor, angelinaballerinathemusical.com.

Hear
The Mistletones
Get into the spirit with these high-energy, hipster singers and their classic holiday tunes.
When: Fri.-Sun., 11/25-11/27, 1-3pm; Free.
Where: South Street Seaport, partysingers.com.

Visit
Jim Henson & Fantasia
Catch fifteen iconic puppets from Miss Piggy to Kermit the Frog in the exhibit Jim Henson’s Fantastic World (through Jan. 16; guided tours Sat. & Sun. 2pm). Then, stay for a screening of the magical Disney animated film Fantasia.
When: Screening Fri. 1/25 7pm, Sat.-Sun. 1/26-1/27 3pm; Free with museum admission.
Where: Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 Ave., Astoria, 718-777-6888, movingimage.us.

Go
The Muppets
A childhood favorite, redone in 2011 style. This latest caper is set in sunny LA, as the puppets and their pals (Jason Segal, Amy Adams and others) stage the Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever. Rated PG.
Where: Select theaters, disney.com.go/muppets.

Shop
8moms
Forget the crowds on Black Friday. Sign up for daily deals and discounts, from beauty to organic gifts, on this new mom-centric site.
Where: 8moms.com.

Go
CMA Block Party
Celebrate the Children’s Museum of the Arts’ new home with a grand opening block party. Enjoy the outdoor fest with face painting, chalk art, live music and an interactive photo booth.
When: Sat. 10/1, 10-6pm; Free.
Where: 103 Charlton St., cmany.org.

See
Enchanted Fairies & Elves
Kids can learn incantations to call these protectors of woods and streams. Make houses and wings for the little friends that protect nature.
When: Sun. 10/2, 11am; Free.
Where: Teadrop Park, Battery Park bet. Warren St. and Murray St., 212-267-9700, bpcparks.org.

Go
Atlantic Antic
This 37th annual festival is the biggest and best in the city. Kids will love pony rides, storytelling and face painting on a dedicated family-friendly block. Don’t forget the funnel cake!
When: Sun. 10/2, 12-6pm.
Where: Atlantic Ave., Hicks St. to Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, atlanticave.org.

Do
Pumpkin Day
Ready for fall? Kids can pick out, decorate and take home an autumn pumpkin. Plus enjoy arts, crafts and live music.
When: Sat. 10/1, 11am-1pm.
Where: McCarren Park, Nassua Ave., Bayard, Leonard and North 12 St., Brooklyn, nycgovparks.org.

Visit
The Snowy Day and the Art of Ezra Jack Keats
The Jewish Museum pays tribute to the award-winning author and illustrator whose beloved children’s books include Whistle for Willie, Peter’s Chair and The Snowy Day. Introduce kids to original works by the artist, from preliminary sketches to final paintings, and then gather in the reading room inspired by Keats’s art and stories.
When: Opens Fri. 9/9, through 1/29/12; $12/Adults, Kids free.
Where: 1109 5th Ave. at 92nd St., 212-423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org.

Shop
Fashion’s Night Out at Destination Maternity
Need to style your bump? Tonight, stop by the flagship shop to meet new mom Laila Ali and learn about her personal fashion, health and beauty. Plus preggos get hand and chair massages, skincare product demonstrations and tips from celebrity prenatal yoga instructor Latham Thomas on the importance of exercise during pregnancy.
When: Thurs. 9/8, 6-9pm.
Where: 28 East 57th St. at Madison Ave., destinationmaternity.com.

Go
Gramercy Park Neighborhood Festival
Stroll through the ethnic foods, art, crafts, antiques, jewelry and other exhibitors along Third Avenue.
When: Sat. 9/10, 10am-6pm.
Where: 3rd Ave. bet. 14th St. & 23rd St., 212-809-4900

See
West Side County Fair
The 9th annual festival celebrate the change of seasons with carnival rides and games, music, square dancing, sideshow performers, a petting zoo, greenmarket and more.
When: Sat. 9/10, 1-6pm.
Where: Riverside Park, 58th St. to 156th St., riversideparkfund.org.

Do
Brooke Jackman Foundation Read-a-thon
This family event observes the anniversary of 9/11 with inspirational, educational book readings (with guest readers like Reading Rainbow creator Twila Liggett and children’s author Katie Davis) as well as live musical performances by Care Bears on Fire and the Bari Koral Family Rock Band. The non-profit org promotes literacy for at-risk children in the NYC area.
When: Sat. 9/10, 12-2pm; All ages; Free.
Where: World Financial Center Winter Garden,  220 Vesey St., brookejackmanfoundation.org.

Hear
Fireboat by Maira Kalman
In a special story hour, the New-York Historical Society presents this picture book that sensitively handles a difficult subject in an age-appropriate manner, conveying the heroic role of the John J. Harvey on September 11.  Presented in conjunction with a Remembering 9/11 exhibition, with Firefighter Vin Panaro and Museum Educator Katie Fuller.
When: Sun. 9/11, 11:30am; Free.
Where: 2 West 77th St. at Central Park West, nyhistory.org.

Go
2011 Children’s Shakespeare Festival
Take budding bards to a production of Mini Tempest, adapted and directed by award-winning playwright Morna Martell. Little ones can even join in the ensemble scenes.
When: Sat. & Sun. 7/23-7/24, 5pm; All ages; Free.
Where: West Side Community Garden, West 89th St. bet. Amsterdam & Columbus, westsidecommunitygarden.org.

See
Free Willy
Enjoy a kid-favorite film al fresco, as SummerStarz presents its seventh annual music and movie series for local families. Head to the East River State Park for arts and crafts, games and live music.
When: Thurs. 7/21, 6-11pm (movie starts at sunset); All ages; Free
Where: East River State Park, North 8th St. &  Kent Ave., Brooklyn, 347-276-4979, nycgovparks.org.

Hear
Shine & The Moonbeams
Kids will stomp their feet, clap their hands and sing to soul music revamped for all ages.
When: Thurs. 7/21, 10:30am; All ages; Free.
Where: Morningside Park, West 110th to West 123rd St. and Manhattan Ave. to Morningside Drive, 212-360-8290, cityparksfoundation.org.

Visit
New Museum Block Party
It may not be the city’s most kid-friendly museum, but the downtown space is branching into the street for a day of events including a scavenger hunt, fortune-telling monkey, dance performances and storytelling.
When: Sat. 7/23, 12-5pm; All ages; Free.
Where: Sara D. Roosevelt Park, Chrystie St. bet. Delancey & Broome, 212-219-1222, newmuseum.org.

Happy Father’s Day!

See
The Berenstain Bears Live
The beloved bear family from the children’s books comes to life in Family Matters, an original new musical full of singing and dancing about Bear Country.
When: Sat. & Sun., 6/18 & 6/19, 1:30pm & 3pm; Free with museum admission.
Where: The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo, Fordham Road & Bronx River Parkway, 718-367-1010, bronxzoo.com.

Hear
Story Pirates and Moey’s Music Party
Moey, called “the pied piper in pink” brings her top mommy-rated performance to the Williamsburg Waterfront, along with entertaining kiddie tale-tellers the Story Pirates.
When: Sun. 6/19, 1pm; All ages; Free.
Where: Williamsburg Waterfront, between N. Seventh & N. Eighth St., Brooklyn, aeglive.com.

Go
Kool Jazzy Dads
In honor of Father’s Day, kids and dads can listen to cool tunes together. Let little ones decorate a tie to give as a special gift.
When: Sun. 6/19, 2:30pm; Ages 5 and under; Free with museum admission.
Where: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Brooklyn, 718-735-4400, brooklynkids.org.

Do
Kids on the Scene Origami Workshop
Artist Ben Friesen teaches kids how to fold paper into Central Park-inspired works of art, like flowers, insects and animals.
When: Sun. 6/19, 11am-12pm; Ages 5+; Free.
Where: Tavern on the Green, inside Central Park at 67th St., 212-874-7874, nycgovparks.org.

Eat
Father’s Day BBQ
While Mother’s Day means brunch, Father’s Day is all about the barbecue. Treat dad to a special menu of Memphis-style ribs, hand-sliced brisket and fried chicken.
When: Sun. 6/19, starting at 12pm.
Where: Southern Hospitality, 1460 2nd Ave. (bet. 76th & 77th St.), 212-265-1001, southernhospitalitybbq.com.