This Chinese New Year is an extra special one, so don’t miss out on the celebrations at one of these family-friendly events in the DMV
Get ready for the bunny puns as we hop into the year of the rabbit! The Chinese Lunar New Year—also known as the Spring Festival—kicks off the first day of the lunisolar year and marks the start of the spring season. It’s 15 straight days of celebrations (from new moon to full moon) and is the most important holiday for many East Asian countries. Get ready for celebratory fanfare as families gather to usher out the old year and welcome a new year of fortune and good luck. For those in the market for extra good fortune, the rabbit is considered to be the luckiest of the 12 zodiac signs. But because you can never be too lucky, we’ve rounded up the best Chinese Lunar New Year events in Washington, DC—from traditional dragon dances to eating lucky meals made of “longevity” noodles—for a very hoppy new year. Bonus: these events are all educational, too!
Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Washington, DC
Watch the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown
In celebration of the Zodiac's luckiest animal, the rabbit, this parade will be historically the largest to date. Chinese traditions will be on display including lion dance troupes, traditional costume teams, drum teams and more alongside community groups like the Almas Shriners, the Girl Scouts and even the Washington Wizard's dance team. There is a fireworks finale at 3:45 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library is celebrating the year of the rabbit all month long with a Zodiac-themed reading challenge. Can you read your way through the Chinese zodiac? Pick a book based on one of the twelve Zodiac signs (tiger, dog, rat, dragon, ox, rabbit, snake, goat, pig, horse, rooster and monkey). Get through all 12 signs and you'll receive a prize!
DC Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno, co-owners of CHIKO and Anju, will share family traditions while demonstrating how to cook traditional holiday dishes at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.
Cost: Free Date: Jan. 21 from 1-2 p.m.
1050 Independence Ave SW National Mall Online:si.edu
Explore Chinese and Korean New Year's Traditions at SAAM
Learn about traditions across Chinese and Korean cultures at this annual event featuring performances, hands-on craft projects, an interactive scavenger hunt regional foods and more. A special Lunar New Year menu will be offered in the Courtyard Cafe.
Cost: Free Date: Jan. 28 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
8th and G St. NW Gallery Place/Chinatown Online:si.edu
Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Virginia
Buddhist monks were the first to use glowing lanterns in their Lunar celebrations around 50 AD (around the same time it is believed Buddhism arrived in China). To honor Buddha, others adopted this tradition. Today, lanterns represent the symbolic nature of illuminating the future. Stroll through over 10,000 handmade Chinese lanterns at the Winter Lantern Festival in Tysons Corner. In addition to the stunning, larger-than-life lantern displays, there are parent-powered rides, like a steel roller coaster, Instagrammable photo ops on LED swings and live performances.
Cost: $17.99/children; $29.99/adults Dates:Thurs.-Sun., now-Feb. from 5-1- p.m.
Celebrate the year of the rabbit at the largest Lunar New Year festival in the tai-state area! This annual event at the Dulles Expo Center showcases Vietnamese culture and traditions through exhibits, dance performances, arts and crafts and more.
4320 Chantilly Shopping Center Chantilly, Virginia Online:unation.com
Make Lunar New Year Decorations at Oakton Library
Get crafty with Lunar New Year-themed activities at the Oakton Library. Make traditional red envelopes to gift money in, create a money tree to hang the envelopes on and fashion lanterns out of paper. There will also be a traditional lion dance performed by the Taiwan Fun group.
Head to Thomas S. Wootton High School for an educational day of performances, activities and food. Coordinated in partnership with the town, Rockville's Asian Pacific American Taskforce invites the community to celebrate Asian culture during this free annual event.
If you are looking for a lunar celebration that showcases traditions and customs across many East Asian cultures, check out this all-weekend waterfront festival. The weekend lineup includes Chinese shadow puppets, sugar painting, paper cutting, Chinese watercolor painting, red lantern crafts and more.
Spend the day at The Walter Museum for free, hands-on fun. In honor of Lunar New Year, the museum is hosting lion dances, live performances, art workshops and more.
This MLK Day, explore King’s impact and legacy with the kids
On January 16 we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Not only is it a day to remember one of our nation’s most revered individuals, but it’s also a time to reflect on how we can all lead our lives with love, respect, and kindness for our fellow humans. It’s also a prime opportunity for parents to explore Black history in Portland. If you’re looking for a way to make this day off from school a day on, Portland has a variety of events scheduled throughout the month to commemorate Dr. King and his legacy. It’s a wonderful time for families to engage, learn, and give back to their community.
courtesy JCWC
1. MLK Day of Restoration and Reflection
One of the ways your family can reflect on Dr. King's work is to volunteer with the Johnson Creek Watershed Council and help restore habitat at Foster Floodplain. Not only will it be an opportunity for families to reflect in conversation, but they'll also have a chance to engage in environmental justice during the two hour event. Please remember to bring water bottles and wear rain gear and clothes that won't mind a little mud. Gloves, tools, and light refreshments will be provided. All ages are welcome.
Date & Time: Jan. 16, 10 a.m.-noon
Foster Floodplain Natural Area 10602 S.E. Foster Rd. Portland Online:jcwc.org
2. MLK Day Clean Up
Teach your kids the value of giving back to their community by volunteering with SOLVE Oregon. The event kicks off at Irving Park in Northeast Portland where volunteers will head out to pick up litter along MLK Boulevard to prevent it from entering the city’s waterways. All ages are welcome. Please remember to sign up in advance for this event.
Date & Time: Jan.16, 10 a.m.-noon
Irving Park 3498 N.E. 7th Ave. Portland Online:solveoregon.org
Start off the weekend of MLK remembrance early by heading to the University of Portland for a range of activities. This year, the university is inviting you to join in their theme of “Who is Our Beloved Community?” and involve yourself and the family in honoring MLK’s civil rights accomplishments. You'll find the full list of events online.
Dates: Jan. 16 & 17
University of Portland 5000 N. Willamette Blvd. Portland Online:up.edu
4. Keep Alive the Dream
The World Arts Foundation's annual tribute to King is back in-person this year. This event has been recognized as the largest community cultural event of its kind in Oregon. The 2023 lineup is still TBD, but you and the family can get inspired by watching the Foundation's documentary on Oregon's African-American communities.
Make environmental justice the center of your Martin Luther King, Jr. Day activity with the kids. Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle. The folks at Urban Forestry will provide all the tools you need to make it a Day On with the kids.
Date & Time: Jan. 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
9360 N. Columbia Blvd. Portland Online:portland.gov
6. Visit a nearby National Park
Families can visit nearby national parks like Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens for free on MLK Day. No passes are needed to park or stay and explore the mountains and trails of these two gorgeous parks that are just a short drive from the city. Or if you're up for a bit of a drive you can head to Crater Lake and make it day.
7. Celebrate Kindness & Community
With the long weekend, why not take a trip to Olympia and celebrate MLK Day at one of the best children's museums in the Pacific Northwest. Children's book readings, poetry, stained glass art, and writing kindness letters to your neighbors and friends are all part of the way you can walk in the footsteps of Dr. King with your kids on the day off.
Date & Time: Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Hands On Children's Museum 414 Jefferson St. N.E. Olympia, WA Online:hocm.org
Families with kids as young as 3 can participate in this community MLK Day event that's just over the bridge in Vancouver. Wear your best rain gear, and close-toed shoes, and head out to plant trees along Burnt Bridge Creek with the Watershed Alliance. You'll need to register in advance for this volunteer opportunity.
Run for justice by participating in the third annual “I Have A Dream” virtual race, benefiting the Equal Justice Initiative. Sign up for a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half marathon, or a full marathon and run it wherever you are, whenever you want, and at your own pace. Not only does your registration fee includes a race medal and bib, but a portion of it will be donated to the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization “committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, to challenging racial and economic injustice, and to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American Society.” Just remember to complete your “I Have a Dream” race anytime in January 2023.
A chance to party and be home at a reasonable hour? Count us in
There’s no better way to celebrate the dawn of 2023 than with a kid-friendly event on New Year’s Eve, Boston families. Luckily, you don’t have to travel too far to find family fireworks displays, pajama dance parties with fun kids crafts, and Noon Year’s Eve celebrations your kids will love. And if going out on NYE isn’t your thing, throw your own party.
A tradition since 1975, Boston’s First Night has always been a way to showcase artistic performances as family’s celebrate the wonders of the season and the beginning of a new year. All around Boston you can find dance performances, bands playing, even puppet shows popping up at Boston Common, Copley Square, and the Boston Public Library. But the most spectacular will definitely be the Family Fireworks at Boston Common. If you think your kids can make it, the Boston Harbor Fireworks are worth staying up late.
Join Boston Children's Museum to say goodbye to 2022 and welcome 2023! The morning session will be all about sharing your wishes for the new year using your words, drawings, colors, and sparkles. Once you’ve mapped out your wish, kids can add it to the Happy New Year's Gate in the Museum's lobby.
3. Celebrate the Noon Year with Boston Public Libraries
Staying awake until midnight can be tough...so let's celebrate at midday instead. Families will have three chances to welcome the Noon Year with their young kids this year. Register to join in the fun at the West Roxbury Branch, Mattapan library location, or head to Egleston Square to party with neighborhood friends. Each free library program offers a little something different, but they'll all be fun, and end just after noon. It’s just what your 2023 needs to get off to a low-key start.
Ring in the New Year at the Children’s Museum Easton during their annual Family New Year’s celebration. Bursting with crafts, activities, magic shows and air brush tattoos, they’ve got everything your family needs to make the day special and complete. The New Year countdown will include confetti blasts and a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne.
Have a blast ringing in the New Year at the EcoTarium with an exciting and kid-friendly countdown and ball drop. While you wait for the main event, sit down to make a family time capsule, add your 2023 resolution to the resolution wall. Our suggestion? Be sure you’ve made your firework rings and noisemakers in time for the bubble wrap blast (i.e. fireworks) that let everyone get in on the fun.
Shake, rattle and roll your way into 2023 at the Discovery Museum in Acton. During this celebration, kids can make party hats and noise makers and then use them in the celebration. Remember to dress your little party-goers in their finest pajamas and stick around for the pajama dance party at 11:45 a.m., right before the Noon Year’s countdown.
Grab your holiday wish list and head to these spots for meet and greets with The Big Guy and Santa pictures
There is no better time to make a family memory than the holidays—from heading out to see Christmas lights around the city, to finding that just-right tree to decorate before you’ve even finished up those Thanksgiving leftovers. While a photo in front of the tree or around the table is a way to preserve those memories, nothing says “Christmas” quite like Santa pictures. When you have the kids in tow, figuring out where Mr. Christmas himself will be is not a simple job. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best places in Portland to snap a pic with Old Saint Nick. Dress the kiddos in whatever means Christmas to you, and head out to one of these spots to make a memory that will last a lifetime (and be a spectacle in any photo album).
Santa’s traditional visit to Washington Square includes all sorts of fun. This year, the new Elf Academy will allow your sweet children to be transformed into elves in the Magic Mirror, with some magic Santa Dust (i.e. Augmented Reality). Oh, and there’s Elf-Ray Vision, and a Naughty or Nice Meter, Storytime with Mrs. Claus, and more. Spend less time in line by making a reservation before your visit, or just swing by for holiday cheer anytime.
Santa’s Workshop is geared up for fun at Clackamas Town Center. The Toy Factory is an experience to behold—kids can test new toys and even help digitally design their own while they wait to see Santa. Special Events include PJ Day, Ugly Sweater Day, and lots of chances for Pet Nights. Reserve online to save some time, and go home with very special memories.
The Christmas Tree in downtown Portland isn’t the only reason to venture to Pioneer Place this holiday season. Saint Nick will be eagerly awaiting present requests at the lower level of the Rotunda building December 1st through the 24th. Take a flick with Santa and then pal around the mall to finish any Christmas shopping—a 2-in-1 occasion, for sure. Head online to reserve your spot for a photo op today.
Santa rarely misses an opportunity to greet kids at Lloyd Center, and this year is no different. He is looking forward to hearing about all the goodies he can load onto his sleigh, and this year he is accompanied by guests. Plan an awesome photo extravaganza with Nightmare Before Christmas’ Jack and Sally or the Grinch himself. You can also catch the Grinch on the famous Lloyd Center ice rink if you’re feeling like strapping on some skates. Head to the Lloyd Center this Christmas season for loads of fun and awesome photo opportunities.
After enclosing himself in a snowglobe to greet children during the holidays, Black Santa has emerged and is excited to meet all the kids of Portland. He is a busy man, so he will be at multiple locations throughout Portland this year. Never fear! He has a website chock full of events he’ll be attending. So no matter your schedule, you can make time to see him (without the snowglobe, this time.).
From November 25th to December 18th, you can join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives. Vintage rail cars transport you along the Willamette River in the heart of the city. Trains travel on the Oregon Pacific Railroad along the Willamette River in SE Portland and he interiors of the passenger cars are decorated with garland, ornaments, and lights that will dazzle both little and big holiday lovers. Of course, the big treat is getting to share a ride with Santa on board. What a great opportunity to get lots of pics! Book your tickets now.
The Festival of Trees is a long-standing holiday event that benefits Providence Foundations of Oregon. On December 2nd and 3rd, you can enjoy a magical holiday wonderland with more than 100 beautifully decorated themed trees, dance and music performances, face painting, and cookie decorating. Attend Elf Academy where kids have a chance to learn what it’s like to be one of Santa’s elves. The whole family can explore the magical winter wonderland featuring amazing trees, crafts, LEGO displays, a chance to get a photo with Santa, and more. And once they complete the required coursework, studious kids will even earn their elf ears.
Good to Know: For the adults, there is a Gala dinner and auction on Thursday, December 1st.
While you can take this train ride all year long, it turns into something special during the holiday season. The holidays just wouldn’t be the holidays in Portland with out a spin on the ZooLights run. This ride gives you the best view of the dazzling display of more than 1.5 million lights in the zoo. In addition to visiting elephants, mountain goats and other wildlife, you can ride the popular lighted train and carousel, and enjoy hot drinks and local food carts. Photos with Santa will be available for the little ones every evening through December 24 starting November 29.
Book a very special Santa visit with this magical train ride on the Hood River Railroad. Join the cheery elves in singing festive songs, enjoy hot chocolate, and be whisked out to Christmas Town with a woo-woo whistle. Santa will give every child their very own special gift. Wear something fun like pj's or a fancy outfit to join in the fun. Book your ride today.
Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 28, 2022
Hood River Rail Station 110 Railroad St. Hood River, OR Online:mthoodrr.com
Grab your cozy jackets and head to a Christmas tree lighting ceremony that is so much more than just a few lights on a tree—from fireworks and faux snow to Grammy award winning performers—Los Angeles knows how to really jumpstart the holiday season
There is something magical about turning on the lights of a Christmas Tree… Something about the “Three…two…one….” —not to mention the celebration before and after the lights go on! that gets us in the mistletoe mood. Luckily, Los Angeles has no shortage of tree lightings. Whether you want to see the Grove light up the night or the towering pyramid of lights twinkling over the ocean at the Manhattan Beach Pier—you’ve got plenty of choices when it comes to Yuletide dazzlement. Check out the below events, listed by date so if you miss one, you can quickly find another Christmas tree lighting ceremony that is sure to impress. Of course, take all that holiday magic and apply it to the rest of the month—don’t miss our favorite places to buy Christmas trees in LA, the best holiday light displays in Los Angeles that are worth your time and money, and last, but not least, where to get tickets to all the kid-friendly Nutcracker shows nearby that kids (and adults!) will adore.
1. Christmas Tree Lighting at the Manhattan Beach Pier
Manhattan Beach does more than just light a Christmas tree on its annual holiday lighting event—it lights up all 900-feet of its popular pier, with the totem "tree" (which is really just strings of lights forming a massive cone) jutting up from the roof of the end-of-the-pier aquarium. The festivities start at 5 p.m. with a visit from Santa, then continues all night long leading up to the lighting ceremony. Throughout the night, all the Downtown shops hand out free holiday treats in honor of the event—and kids will want to stop and see the live reindeer (!) in front of Pages, the quaint beach town's popular small bookstore. Throughout the night, roving carolers will be strolling the streets, singing holiday songs to all who listen—and the local school choirs will sing leading up to the lighting ceremony, at which point the town mayor flips the switch and the crowds are allowed to walk down the newly-illuminated pier.
Date: Wed. Nov. 16; 5-8:30 p.m. (Christmas tree lights turn on at 7 p.m.)
Welcome the holidays, red carpet style! Enjoy Rodeo Drive's glitzy shops, all done up in holiday cheer, then watch as the towering Christmas tree lights blaze on before a grand finale of fireworks. This year's celebration will feature performances by sixteen-time Grammy award-winning musician, songwriter and producer David Foster and acclaimed singer, television and Broadway star Katharine McPhee, who will will perform live with new holiday songs and old favorites. Of course, Santa will also be on hand for the event.
Can't make it to the lighting ceremony? The celebration doesn't end there! Pump up your holiday spirit by visiting Beverly Hills' dazzling display of holiday light installations, all running nightly through Jan. 1. These include "Glowing Gardens" at Beverly Cañon Gardens, "Lights on the Lily Pond" at Beverly Gardens Park, and "Unwrap the Magic" at Beverly Hills City Hall Tower. There will be also be live caroling, dancing, craft-making and more at Greystone Mansion and Gardens’ holiday celebration on Dec. 3-4.
Keep kids up past their bedtimes for the shopping destination's 20th annual star-studded tree lighting extravaganza, which willfeature live performances from Gloria Estefan, Andy Grammer, Little Big Town, and David Foster & Kat McPhee. This year's spectacular is being held in partnership with CBS for its “A Home for the Holidays at The Grove” TV special. The hourlong special, which will air Dec. 23 on CBS, aims to shine a light on the thousands of American children in foster care and help get these kids into "forever families."
The cameras will be rolling, so make sure you and your brood are "Lights, camera, action!"-ready as you gather around the Grove's 100-foot-tall white fir tree, which will be adorned in 15,000 sparking lights and 10,000 ornaments. The forecast also calls for a (faux) snowfall—and fireworks—so kids will be sufficiently wowed.
Of course, with all the glitz and glamour on stage, the only star your kid will want to see is Santa. And word has it that he'll be making an appearance, too—so get those holiday wish lists in order!
Your little elves can make lots of merriment in DTLA with the official lighting of Los Angeles County’s Christmas tree at the Music Center's 35,000-square foot outdoor plaza. Enjoy the sweet sounds of holiday favorites from local music artists and community groups, then gather around the magnificent 75-foot-tall tree to watch it twinkle with holiday lights. Word has it, there may even be hot chocolate.
Date: Mon. Nov. 28; 5 p.m.
Music Center Plaza 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles Online:musiccenter.org
5. Christmas Tree Lighting at Union Station
The historic station will illuminate its towering tree with thousands of glistening lights on the majestic South Patio as snow drifts from the sky in a classic kickoff to the holiday season. The festive, family-friendly celebration will also feature performances from the vintage voices of The Beverly Belles and party band, Weekend Celebrity, along with a “live” mural from eclectic artist Septerhed and special appearance from the North Pole's most special guy. There will also be a holiday arts and crafts zone, custom photo opps, Santa selfies, and free hot cocoa and holiday cookie bars.
Date: Wed., Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m (tree lighting is at 7:15 p.m.)
If you want to get your holiday shopping done while you're celebrating the kickoff of the holiday season, head to the Santa Monica Promenade, where the city's annual holiday celebration, Winterlit, transforms Third Street Promenade and Downtown Santa Monica into an immersive Yuletide experience, with tens of thousands of lights and a smorgasbord of seasonal decor at every turn. The grand lighting of the Promenade's 24-foot-tall tree is an all-out extravaganza that will feature performances by local school groups, free photos with Santa, and snowy skies sure to delight all those beach babies.
Historic Culver City will once again host its spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration—this year with 25 tons of fresh sled-ready snow! The Tree Lighting Ceremony will include a 30-minute show of singing, dancing, and music by local kids and a countdown to the the big reveal led by the mayor. The “Sled-tacular Festival” promises to be a Winter Wonderland, with enough snow for lots of slippery sliding and snowball-rolling. Expect snowmen, games, booths, treats, and a special visit from Santa.
Can't make it? The event will be live-streamed and viewable 6-6:45 p.m. on the city's website.
Date: Thurs., Dec. 1; 5-8:30 p.m. (Sled-tacular Festival begins 5 p.m.; Tree Lighting show and countdown takes place from 6-6:30
Snow is in the forecast at this Simi Valley annual event, which features a whole roster of activities for kids plus live music, food and drinks for all. The event kicks off midday with a bounce house and activities for the kids including visits with both Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Come hungry (and thirsty!), as there will be a beer garden, farmers market and hot foods for sale. The tree lighting will be followed by a performance by oldies cover party band Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries. Make sure to dress warm—the snow will be falling!
Good to Know: Mrs Claus visits at 2 p.m.; Santa visits at 6 p.m.; the Christmas tree lighting is at 6:15 p.m.; Snowfall takes place at 6:30 p.m. and the concert will be held from 7-8 p.m.; The Night market is open from 7-10 p.m.
9. 100th Annual Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony in Altadena
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival is back in Altadena, where a stretch of Santa Rosa's iconic deodar cedar trees have been lighting up for the holidays since 1920 (it's reportedly the oldest outdoor Christmas tree display in the world). The kickoff event, the Winter Festival, will take place at the library and will include tasty seasonal treats and drinks, as well a holiday craft market featuring local artisans. From there, head out to the streets and watch with the crowd as the lights go on for the season.
Good to Know: Daytime festivities center around the Altadena Public Library. The lighting ceremony starts at 6 p.m. Don't miss "Christmas Tree Lane" —one of the best holiday light displays in Los Angeles and takes place on Santa Rosa Ave. between Woodbury Rd. and Altadena Dr.
These historical sites, museums, and cultural centers are the perfect way for families to learn more about Native American culture
It’s Native American Heritage Month every November and while learning about Native culture shouldn’t be restricted to a month every year, it’s certainly a time to spotlight the many Native American communities and their rich histories. This is a time to focus on their diverse heritage and important contributions and learn as much as we can as well as teach our children to respect and celebrate the Native American communities that have always called these lands their home. Here are a few venues where you can do that responsibly, and the kids can benefit from an immersive educational experience that aids their learning as well.
Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site | North Dakota
North Dakota Tourism
Knife River Village was last occupied in 1845 by the Hidatsa and Mandan, and the national historic site is home to a beautiful state‐of‐the‐art museum and interpretive center dedicated to preserving their culture. Today, you can explore the museum on the site, which is filled with Mandan artifacts and art created by Plains artists, and then take a walking tour of the village remains.
Kids will love: The historic site also has a junior ranger program, where kids can explore the historical aspects of the village site and earn badges when they complete the program.
Native Americans have inhabited the region now known as New Mexico for thousands of years, and their presence is felt throughout the state. This culture is reflected in nearly every aspect of life within Albuquerque—from the city’s art and architecture to its festivals and culinary traditions. This influence extends into the present day among New Mexico’s 23 Native American pueblos, tribes, and nations, ensuring this way of life continues to endure.
Kids will love: Kids can meet artists selling handcrafted works, experience dance performances and lessons, and savor unique contemporary Indigenous meals at the on-site full-service Indian Pueblo Kitchen restaurant.
With a vast collection of southwest Indigenous people's art, history, artifacts, clothing tools, and more, the Heart Museum features one exhibit called Away From Home: American Indian Boarding School Stories telling the significant and often untold period of American history in the 1870s where American Indians were forced to assimilate into government-operated boarding schools. The newest exhibit called Substance of Starscombines digital technology with contemporary art from Haudenosaunee, Yup’ik, Diné, and Akimel O’otham Tribes.
Kids will love: Hands-on galleries offer interactive fun and many cultural learning opportunities for kids. Heard hosts the Hoop Dancing World Championships annually slated for February 18-19, 2023.
South Dakota is home to famed sites like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Old West town of Historic Deadwood, along with vast outdoor adventures, and Native American heritage. The state’s tribal nations visitor guide features a map of tribal lands, a brief history of each tribe, visitor etiquette suggestions, and destinations that provide opportunities to learn more about each tribe.
Kids will love: Powwows are one of the best ways to see Native American culture up close. Kids can learn cultural etiquette and how to participate in support of Native American tribes.
Carpinteria State Beach is on the ancestral land of the Chumash people in an area they called Mishopshnow, meaning “correspondence,” because it was a center of trade. The Spanish explorers called it Carpinteria because it was where the Chumash crafted their tomol canoes sealed with tar and pitch. Today you can still find tar seeping from rocks within the park. The Chumash Painted Cave can be visited along the way, which is a small painted rock on the hillside of a rural two-lane mountain road near Santa Barbara, featuring an interpretive panel for the archaeological site.
Kids will love: The Junior Ranger programs, self-guided explore packs, visitor center exhibits and the Tomol Interpretive Play along the accessible interpretive trail which runs between Linden Avenue and the park’s entrance.
From the Indigenous Arts of North America Gallery by James Florio
Beginning around 1925, the Denver Art Museum was among the first U.S. museums to recognize the beauty and value of Indigenous arts and start a collection. Today, it is home to more than 18,000 objects by artists from more than 250 Indigenous nations. The collection includes ancient ceramics, beaded garments, and carved masks, plus contemporary paintings, sculptures, photography, and more from artists across North America.
Kids will love: Family Central, an immersive experience with costumes, wood blocks, and more to create with. Kids can contribute to an art project about Denver in the Native Arts Artist-in-Residence Studio.
The Native American Village here honors Utah's Native tribes through interactive cultural presentations. Natives dressed in traditional regalia tell the stories of their homes, lifestyle, and contributions to Utah's heritage. The quiet beat of a drum and Native songs tell the story of the ancients. See the largest teepee in America as well as an authentic Navajo Hogan and learn the story of the Medicine Wheel, sometimes known as the Sacred Hoop.
Kids will love: There is craft-making at the Village and kids learn about designs and symbols called petroglyphs that the ancients carved into rocks. There are rock-type features to climb on and a stream to float wooden boats in.
Pay tribute to the deceased with these Día de los Muertos Los Angeles events
Every fall, many families gather to honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away by celebrating Día de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead. Whether they decorate elaborate altars with photos and sentimental objects of remembrance or paint their faces like skulls, otherwise known as Calaveras, there are many special traditions you can share with your children. We’ve rounded up some of the best events in SoCal to commemorate the holiday this year.
What Is Día de los Muertos?
Celebrated throughout the Americas, the tradition of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, originated in Mexico. Kids will recognize the colorfully decorated sugar skull as the most common symbol. Your town or neighborhood may host a celebration, but not everyone knows the meaning behind it. Did you know: Día de los Muertos holiday is actually two days, held consecutively: Nov. 1 is marked as a day to honor lost children, as well as any lost or forgotten souls. Nov. 2, Day of the Dead official, honors all lost ancestors and loved ones.
Plaza de Familia at Disney California Adventure Park Now - Nov. 2: The Disney and Pixar Academy Award-winning film, Coco, comes to life at Disney California Adventure’s Plaza de la Familia with an immersive celebration of the everlasting bonds of family. Highlights include A Musical Celebration of Coco, photos with the film’s main character, Miguel, as well as Mariachi concerts, paper mask design, delicious Mexican food, and an opportunity to post personal messages to loved ones at the memory wall near the Mexican Arbol de la Vida (Tree of Life). Event details.
Día de los Muertos at Olvera Street Now - Nov. 2: Over nine days, a colorful celebration of Día de los Muertos takes place on Olvera St. that blends ancient traditions with modern interpretations of the holiday. Highlights include nightly theatrical performances, a vibrant parade honoring loved ones who’ve passed, community altars, free sweet bread, entertainment, face painting on select dates, and a 5K race celebrating the Day of the Dead. Event details.
Día de los Muertos on the Third Street Promenade Now - Nov. 2: Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM) is honoring Día de los Muertos, highlighting the traditional Mexican cultural celebration of life and death, with live entertainment and a display of nine La Catrina sculptures on view throughout three blocks of the Third Street Promenade. The larger-than-life sculptures are by Los Angeles-based artist Ricardo Soltero and depict La Catrina, one of Día de los Muertos' most recognizable figures originally created by Mexican illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada. Santa Monica Ballet Folklorico, will perform on Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. on the 1300 block of the Promenade. Event details.
Coco Screening at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Oct. 31: If you’re looking for something different to do this year on Halloween night, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is featuring a free outdoor screening of Disney and Pixar’s film, Coco. Event details.
Los Angeles Día de los Muertos Events Happening This November
Día de Los Muertos at Kidspace Children's Museum Nov. 1-6: Families are invited to join in the celebration of life at Kidspace Children's Museum by contributing either items from home, such as scanned photos or trinkets, or by making paper flowers, clay figures, or drawings at the museum. Personal items from home should represent the lives and interests of loved ones who are being honored. Please do not bring anything valuable, perishable, flammable, or breakable, and keep in mind that the museum cannot return your items. The Día de Los Muertos celebration continues through the weekend with the music of Las Colibri, an all-female ensemble that plays a unique interpretation of traditional mariachi music on Nov. 4. Técnica Arte y Folklore will thrill guests with the colorful twills and lively steps of contemporary dance in Mexican folklore on Nov. 6. Event details.
Día de los Muertos Family Festival Nov. 1: Nov. First Fridays at the Catalina Museum for Art & History will be on Tues. this month to Celebrate Día de los Muertos. Families and friends of all ages are invited to experience a free celebration with the 4th Annual Día de los Muertos Family Festival. The museum welcomes the colorful Mexican tradition celebrating life and death while honoring family members and friends who are no longer with us and will take place from 5:00-9:00 p.m. Enjoy an art project for the kids, local food vendors, cultural performances including live mariachi music followed by local band Sin Frontera, a performance by Ballet Folklorico Quetzal and more! The museum will be raffling off special Día de los Muertos Limited Edition Barbies during the event. Event details.
Día de los Muertos at Santa Monica Pier Nov. 1 - Nov. 2: Santa Monica Pier pays tribute to Día de los Muertos with a two-day public art installation inside the Merry-Go-Round building. Piergoers are invited to contribute to the community altar, as well as view altars created by local artists. There will also be an art installation called Letters of Life where guests are asked to share their favorite Pier memories, photos and anecdotes of family and friends who have passed. These will decorate the space via digital murals surrounding the Carousel over the course of the celebration. Event details.
We searched every borough to bring you the complete list of family-friendly events and exhibits happening this month, and they have one key thing in common: they’re all free!
November might mean cooler temps and fewer outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop. In this list, you’ll find dozens of free and low-cost events in November 2022 for families and kids throughout the five boroughs of NYC.
Join NYC as it transitions from fall into winter with beloved seasonal events and fun one-off activities: Visit the yearly winter markets, most of which are returning in November, see the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, celebrate Thanksgiving by giving to the community, and much more. Plus, check out fun and free events for kids and families in November that will educate, engage, and entertain everyone in the fam. And as always, discover all the museums in New York City that offer free admission to visitors, whether it’s all the time or on special days.
Drag Story Hour for Neurodiverse Kids at Bronx Library Center Nov. 5: Drag artists read to kids in an extra-special readalong designed specifically for kids with autism and other disabilities. The event aims to introduce kids to the idea of gender fluidity, and generally put on a fun and bright performance they’re sure to enjoy. Event details.
Bronx Night Market at Fordham Plaza Nov. 26: Good food and a friendly atmosphere make an evening at the Bronx Night Market a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase noms from local food vendors, or check out the kid zone, educational booths on food and nutrition, and a Instagram Wall-O-Fame. Event details.
Free Soccer Sessions at Williamsbridge Oval Throughout Nov.: Head to the game room at the WBO for free soccer sessions for kids. The sessions are beginner-friendly and teach everything from footwork, passing, and basic drills to teamwork and a positive attitude. Event details.
Brooklyn
Bulb Planting on West Street Nov. 5: Help beautify the new Greenway at West Street and Greenpoint Avenue in this volunteer event. Plant bulbs next to the new trees and bring even more green to the street. All tools and gloves will be provided—just bring yourself, some water, and layers in case of a chill. Event details.
FAD Market Fall Pop-up at Empire Stores in DUMBO Nov 5 and 6: Over 30 artists and small businesses make the FAD Market a great place to browse for unique gifts—after all, it’s almost time for the holidays! While you’re there, you can explore the parks under the bridge, go for a spin in Jane’s Carousel, or stick around in Empire Stores for lunch at Time Out Market’s 20+ food vendors. Event details.
Thursgiving Holiday Giving Event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Nov. 17: Give back to the community by bringing coats and clothes, and wrapped, unopened gifts for kids this holiday season. The donation event is a whole party, complete with a DJ, snacks, and raffles. The more gifts you bring, the more the community gets, but there are also prizes given out for donations, including a private tour of the Yard for families, groups, or businesses that donate 25 items. Event details.
Weekend Nature Exploration at Prospect Park Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: The Audubon Center is leading kids on weekend adventures through the wild side of Prospect Park. Every weekend in November, stop by 10-12 to borrow a discovery pack—a backpack filled with tools like binoculars and nature activity ideas, 11-12 for live animal encounters, and 12-1 for a volunteer cleanup session. Event details.
BAM Kids 2022 Throughout Nov.: Foster a love for movies, music, and the arts at the annual BAM Kids festival. Join the Brooklyn Academy of Music for kids concerts and animations. Featured this year are the music and performance of Fyütch, and the whimsical animated movies “Joyful Adventures” and “Follow Your Dreams.” While the BAM kids festival isn’t completely free, most tickets are either pay as you wish or very affordable. Event details.
Manhattan
Jazz at One at Trinity Church Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Catch the final three jazz performances of the season at Trinity this month. Featuring performers The Coleman Hughes Sextet, Samara Joy, Theo Walentiny Trio, and Edmar Castañeda Quartet. Visit the space in person at 1 p.m., or watch for free online on the website. Event details.
Image from 2021 Mexico Week courtesy of Tishman Speyer and Rockefeller Center.
Mexico Week: Día De Muertos at Rockefeller Center Leaving Nov. 2: Rockefeller comes alive with the colors and artwork of Mexican culture during Mexico Week for this year’s Day of the Dead. The event, which is leaving on November 2, will feature sculptures by Cesar Menchaca, including a huge jaguar and Quetzalcoatl, as well as some very well-dressed (and familiar!) skeletons. For more Day of the Dead fun, check out our list of Día De Muertos events in NYC this year. Event details.
Concert at One: ChamberQUEER at Trinity Church Nov. 2: Part of their “Performances at One” series, this extra-special performance features ChamberQUEER. The artists will highlight queer figures from the history of classical music. As with their other performances, this one can be watched in person or online. Event details.
Image courtesy of Chris Lee and Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall Family Day: String Fling
Nov. 5: Kids ages 3-10 are invited to get up close and personal with string instruments. Billed as a “musical adventure,” this hands-on event lets participants create a small performance, relax to peaceful music, jam along with an Afro-Brazilian capoeira band, learn about West African stringed instruments, and more. Event details.
The Rink at Rockefeller
Nov. 5: The rink at Rockefeller is reopening on November 5, officially ringing in the winter season. While a spin on the rink isn’t free (tickets start at $11), watching the skaters on the ice is a cozy winter activity for the family. Explore the area—make sure to stop by the family-favorite Nintendo Store—or get a hot chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat and sit by the rink and people-watch. Event details.
Wellness in Harlem Nov. 5: Sample free food at this party, held at La Placita (at 116th and Park). The event will feature music, giveaways, drinks, and free food from beloved restaurants and brands, including vegan donuts from Planet Back, a Caribbean version of Caesar Salad from YAYB, and much more. Event details.
Breakaway Hoops Trial Class in Harlem Nov. 5: Breakaway Hoops is offering a free trial class for kids ages 8-12. Get a sneak peek at what you can expect from the program, and have some fun with drills and fundamental skill development. All participants must bring their own basketball. Event details.
Seaport Kids: Pumpkin Decorating and Pumpkin Arch Nov. 5 and 6: Drop in and decorate some pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Led by Private Picassos, this free crafty workshop will have foam pumpkins, markers, and plenty of pom-poms for kids to get creative with their pumpkin creations. While you’re there, check out the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17, which is leaving on November 7, for a seasonal photo-op. Event details.
Sensory-friendly Mornings and Evenings at the Intrepid Nov. 5 and Nov. 18: The Intrepid is opening its doors early for young kids on November 5, and closing them late for teens and adults on November 18. These special openings are designed specifically with people with autism in mind, and feature sensory-friendly activities led by experts. This month, the children’s program will introduce them to airplane design, while the teen and adult program will focus on the museums’ exhibit, “Women Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Era.” Event details.
Garden Volunteer Session at Jefferson Garden and Mad Fun Farm Nov. 5 and 19: Join other volunteers from Concrete Safaris in making the gardens and parks around the city even more beautiful. Activities vary, but some things you may find yourself partaking in include weeding, planting flowers, fruits, herbs, or veggies, shoveling topsoil, spreading mulch, picking up trash, and more. Event details.
Closing Day at Hester Street Fair Nov. 6: Hester Street Fair is leaving until next year, and they’re going out in style: with a shopping party! The event will have a live DJ, and will be your last chance to check out local vendors, delicious food, and more fair fun. Event details.
Silent Clowns Film Series: Charlie Chaplin at NYPL for the Performing Arts Nov. 12: The New York Public Library pays tribute to the great star, Charlie Chaplin. Catch a screening of Chaplin’s movies from 1915, with a live piano accompaniment by Ben Model from MoMA and an intro and Q&A by film historians Model and Steve Massa. This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so show up early if you want to sit. Event details.
ConEd Family Day at the Morris-Jumel Mansion Nov. 12: Visit Manhattan’s oldest house-turned-museum for their monthly family day. This month, visitors will make their own colorful suncatcher ornaments. Note that masks are still required for attendees ages 2 and over. Event details.
Adventures from The Shed at 14th Street Y Nov. 12 and 19: Kids 2-5 years old are invited to Liondown’s Birthday—but first, they’ll need to help Mary-Jo and her friends come up with a present for him in time for the party. This puppet adventures feature singing, dancing, and storytelling that’ll have kids singing along and participating in the experience. Event details.
Poster Kids: Junior Fashionistas at the Poster House Nov. 13: The Poster Kids is taking on Air-India’s Maharaja mascot, and this time the focus is his wonderful fashion sense. Kids ages 5-11 are invited to learn about the Maharaja’s style, and make their own art that they can wear using recycled textiles. Event details.
Architecture for Animals at The Skyscraper Museum Nov. 19: The city might be home to humans, but it’s also home for many animals. In this family program from The Skyscraper Museum, participants will learn about architecture in the animal world, like beehives, dens, and bird nests. Then, kids will design an apartment with one animal’s needs in mind. This program is recommended for ages 4-8 and RSVP is required. Event details.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24: Whether you plan on attending or you prefer to watch it from the comfort of your own home, no list of free events in NYC in November would be complete without the world-renown Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Joining the lineup for the first time this year will be the Baby Shark family (don’t get the song stuck in your head!), Bluey the dog, and Geoffrey the Giraffe, in celebration of the return of Toys”R”Us in Macy’s stores. Plus, walk by the area in the days leading up to the parade to see the floats being inflated. Event details.
Eldridge Arts & Learning: Stained Glass at the Museum At Eldridge Street Nov. 27: Learn about the beautiful stained glass windows at the museum, as well as the history and purpose of stained glass windows. Then, make your own design for a window by creating a collage. This event is free for holders of a Cool Culture Pass or a SNAP benefits card. Event details.
Tree Lighting at the Rockefeller Center Nov. 30: The spectacular Christmas Tree is making a comeback to Rockefeller Center Plaza. Standing at close to 100 feet tall and topped by a nine-foot Swarovski Star, the lighting of the tree is a huge event every year. Visit to watch over 50,000 lights light up in a spectacular display. Event details.
Canstruction NY at Brookfield Place Nov. tbd: The annual Canstruction exhibit is coming back to Brookfield Place this year. The event features spectacular structures made from cans, as well as a chance for visitors to donate canned goods for charity. Stay tuned to the website for dates and more details as they become available. Event details.
Queens
Making Music With Friends at Church in the Gardens Nov. 19: Learn how friends make music together and join in the fun with this 45-minute interactive concert for kids. Kids of all ages are invited to hear chamber music and engage with the performers. If you want to attend the paid concert after this event, you can present your free ticket to get 50% off the ticket price. Event details.
Hands on History: Queens Hip-Hop at King Manor Nov. 19: Celebrate national Hip-Hop Month at this month’s free family day at King Manor. Learn about some key 90s rap and hip-hop legends, with a special emphasis on those who come from Queens. Then, make your own trading cards and microphone for your future performances. Event details.
Buckets for Blue: Volunteer Cleanup Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: Help clean part of the Raritan Bay’s shoreline by collecting the trash and plastics that litter the shore. Visitors can borrow buckets and grabbers from the park’s visitor’s center. Event details.
Tues. throughout Nov.: Bring your toddler (ages 0-4 are best suited for this activity) to the nature center at Clay Pit Ponds for a morning of fun and exploration. The The day begins indoors, as kids explore a different nature theme each week. Then, if the weather’s nice, the group moves outside for a short hike. Event details.
Various and Other Locations
Pumpkin Smash Events Do you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween? Bring them to a pumpkin smash! This is chance to destroy your old pumpkins before they go bad in a fun way, but also recycle them for fertilizing! Check out all the places that are hosting pumpkin smash events.
Libraries Around the City Throughout Nov.: Libraries all around the boroughs have something going on basically every day! Stop by your local library and enjoy their free programming. There’s something for everyone, from baby singalongs and toddler craft times to teen tech time, and more.
A few highlights for November include the Children’s Film Series at the NYPL for the Performing Arts on Nov. 10, where you can watch a classic children’s movie on a 16mm projector, and the Solar Race Cars workshop at Allerton Library, where kids will build their own solar-powered vehicles, then race them against each other (if there’s time):
November might bring in the cold, but it’ll also bring in the welcoming warmth of the city’s holiday markets. These holidays feature vendors from the city and beyond as well as delicious and comforting food. Check out these seasonal markets arriving in NYC for the winter this month:
Seeds (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 1: Just one final day in November to see this massive roots transformed into a seed sculpture by artist Jaime Miranda-Bambaren. You can view this statement on humanity encroaching on nature at Thomas Paine Park.
The Great Debate (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 13: Standing at 16 feet tall, this fiberglass sculpture depicts artist Hebru Brantley’s character, Flyboy. The character is a take on the superhero genre by the artist, who drew inspiration from the Tuskegee Airmen—WWII’s first African-American military pilots—to create his vision of what a black superhero might look like. Flyboy stands proudly at The Battery.
The Giving Tree (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: The colorful Giving Tree by Haksul Lee, located at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is more than just an art piece: It’s a functional piece of architecture. The installation uses wind power to generate electricity, which has powered some of the lights in the park and allowed visitors to charge their devices. It’s departing from the park in November, but hopefully its message stays on.
Going Back to The Meadows (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: This tribute to Queens native LL Cool J by Sherwin Banfield is fun and functional, as well: The speakers are solar powered. Visit the piece before it leaves at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Faces of Harlem (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This community-centric outdoor photo wall in Morningside Park takes a look at Harlem residents private indoor spaces, highlighting the themes of connections and isolation. There are over 100 photos to look at, taken by 10 modern artists as well as three youth photographers.
Good Neighbors (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This photo wall commemorates community members from around the Anibal Aviles Playground, by displaying their images along with short interviews. Created by J Maya Luz, this installation shares a wall in the playground with a number of other artworks, inclkuding a memorial for the park’s namesake.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Located a stone’s throw away from Yankee Stadium, this museum displays modern art with a focus on urban experiences and culture. Explore what it means to be a part of the NYC community, and specifically the demographic in the museum’s neighborhood.
The museum is always free, and has a permanent collection as well as rotating special exhibits.
1040 Grand Concourse
Concourse Village Online:bronxmuseum.org
Wave Hill
This gorgeous garden has 28 acres of carefully cultivated plants, flowers and woodland. Take a stroll through the indoor Alpine House, stop for a photo-op of the Hudson River and the Palisades at the Pergola, or sit and relax by the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens. The space frequently hosts family-friendly programs so be sure to check their calendar before you head out.
New York Botanical Garden
With over 250 acres to see, the New York Botanical Garden can definitely be a whole-day affair. The Garden is open rain or shine, and has a mix of indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. See seasonal flowers and native plants, a peaceful rock garden, an entire forest, and much more. The Garden also conducts research, hosts family and child-oriented events, and has online seminars — including one where experts will answer your questions about why your potted plant is looking a little droopy.
Free admission is available for NYC residents on Wednesdays.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is like an educational playground for kids. Find exhibits created specifically for little ones to view and learn with, as well as many hands-on activities that teach through fun and play. Don’t miss the NEST, an organic playground located on the museum’s roof, the water-based play space, or the newly opened Jurassic Mini-golf.
The museum’s Amazon Free Hours grant free admission to all visitors on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
American Folk Art Museum
The American Folk Art Museum explores the joys of self-taught artists from the 1800s all the way through today. These artworks symbolize authentic American culture and experience through time and provide a snapshot of life in different time periods. Along with beautiful photographs and arts on canvas and board, the museum has some unique collections like weather-vanes. The museum has a number of coloring and activity pages that kids can enjoy from home, as well.
National Museum of the American Indian
Part of the Smithsonian Institution family, this museum honors American Indians. It displays modern and classic art by people of American Indian heritage, and teaches visitors about their cultures and traditions. It also frequently has performances, educational programs, and more.
The Skyscraper Museum
Look to the skies at the Skyscraper Museum where NYC’s iconic skyline is explored and celebrated. The museum’s exhibits look at the architecture of the city’s buildings, the literal rise of skyscrapers in NYC, and all other things related to the city’s buildings and their history. The museum also often hosts free family events both at the museum and in different locations around the city.
Admission to The Skyscraper Museum is free through December.
The Jewish Museum
View a celebration of Jewish culture, heritage and artwork at this museum. Exhibits highlight art and photography by Jewish artists, from modern artists working today to key historical figures who helped shape the way art and Jewish culture intersect. The museum also hosts free special events, from museum tours for people with memory loss, to art-making workshops for children and families.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library, which was started by Pierpont Morgan and is now continuously growing, hosts a collection of rare and unique books. While the books in the library itself aren’t available for visitors to browse, you can marvel at the beauty of the library and visit the exhibits, which often show old books, newspaper clippings, and other historic artifacts.
Entry into the Library is free on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3 to 5 p.m., no reservation required. Free Friday programs take place every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and these do need a ticket, which are released for reservation a week in advance.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
This museum examines the history of Jewish people, the hardships they’ve overcome, and the hope for a brighter present and future. The museum has exhibits that discuss the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and accounts of the time, as well as artwork and sculptures by Holocaust survivors.
You can visit this museum for free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 p.m. A ticket is required, which you can get by choosing the Thursday 4 p.m. slot on the museum website.
Edmond J. Safra Plaza
36 Battery Place
Financial District Online:mjhnyc.org
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA is an iconic institute, displaying modern artworks, sculptures, and media / performance pieces created from the 1880s and beyond. The art here will make you feel and think — and, although most exhibits aren’t interactive, the many bright and striking colors and interesting shapes make a great entry point for kids to talk about and explore art.
Thanks to a sponsorship by UNIQLO, the MoMA grants NYC residents free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 4 to 8 p.m.
11 West 53 St.
Midtown
Admission to the MoMA PS1 is always free to New Yorkers, thanks to The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
9/11 Memorial Museum
This museum is a tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 (as well as the February 26, 1993) attacks on the World Trade Center. Visit to learn about the horrific event through media, personal narratives, and a collection of artifacts telling the many stories of that day.
Free admission is offered on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This museum encourages exploration and learning through hands-on exhibits. These often mix fun movement and bright colors with conversations about serious topics like women’s voting rights. Kids can also go on quests featuring their favorite characters like Dora, use their imagination by pretending to be superheroes, discover new cultures through interactive experiences, and much more. Exhibits change often, so stop by at various times of year to see what’s new.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is free to enter on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m.
Queens County Farm Museum
Get away from the city for a farm visit! Meet and greet farm animals (and even get to pet some at the petting zoo), engage with the sensory wonders of the children’s garden, embark on a cute scavenger hunt for the smallest tots, and more. For a small fee, visitors can go on a hayride, and parents can browse the Farm Store for farm-fresh produce, eggs, teas, wool, and other goods created and harvested right on the farm.
The Farm Museum is free to enter every day, except on special ticketed days.
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Bellrose Manor Online:queensfarm.org
Socrates Sculpture Park
Founded in 1986, this park is a place where visitors can have a picnic among incredible sculptures. The artwork on display is always changing, so this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to. Currently on viewing are sculptures like “Steel Bodies” by Maren Hassinger and “Broadway Billboard” by the park’s teen group, Socrateens.
The Socrates Sculpture Park is a public park and admission is free.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor is a must-see if you’ve never been. It’s a beautiful, sprawling grounds have a collection of gardens and plants, while special locations like the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art have their own atmosphere (as well as hours and admission prices).
The Scholar’s Garden is free for Staten Island residents, and the main outdoor grounds and gardens are always free to the public from dawn to dusk.
When Halloween is over, there’s still one more “spirited” holiday worth celebrating in New York—and that’s the Day of the Dead
Before you say goodbye to the ghosts of Halloween, give the spirits of the dead one final sendoff by celebrating Día de los Muertos—otherwise known as Day of the Dead. This holiday, celebrated in Mexico and other parts of Central and South America, is held on Nov. 1 and 2 but isn’t actually related to Halloween. While Halloween is all about scaring evil spirits away, the Day of the Dead is welcoming the spirits of lost loved ones back into the land of the living for one day of celebration and remembrance. This is done with offerings, stories of gone loved ones, colorful sugar skulls, bright arrangements of flowers, and other festive activities. Unlike Halloween’s subtext of darkness and terror, Día de los Muertos is actually about bright colors and joy.
Sing, dance, and celebrate those who have passed with these family-friendly Day of the Dead events in 2022 around NYC—and beyond!
Día de los Muertos Family Day at Green-Wood Cemetery
What better place is there to celebrate the souls of the dead than in a cemetery. Green-Wood Cemetery welcomes families for an afternoon of crafts, food and other fun celebrations for kids and adults of all ages. Learn about the holiday and participate in festive themed activities as you dance, decorate, and share memories. Although this event is free, registration is recommended so the cemetery can know how many people to expect.
Cost: Free Tue., Nov. 1, 3:30-6 p.m. Rain Date: Wed., Nov. 2, 3:30-6 p.m. Green-Wood Cemetery Modern Chapel Enter at 500 25th St. Sunset Park, Brooklyn Online:green-wood.com
Mexican Myth, Legend, and Ancestry Performance at the Kupferberg Center
The Mexico Beyond Mariachi ensemble has a special treat for families: a bilingual, multimedia performance for families all about the Day of the Dead! Performed at the Kupferberg Center for the Arts, the ensemble will play music, dance, and share stories myths and legends surrounding the celebration. Follow along with a story that spans over 600 years and shares traditional song and dance surrounding legends like La Llorona, the seasonal dance of the "Viejito," the story of Doña Panchita's close brush with death, and much more. Colorful costumes complete the entertaining and educational show that'll keep every member of the family glued to the stage.
Folk Art: Mexican Day of the Dead at Pelham Art Center
Head to the courtyard of the Pelham Art Center for a celebration led by Zafiro Romero-Acevedo, a teacher and artist from Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico. Learn about the history and traditions of the day through performances by the Telpochcalli Traditional Mexican Performing Arts and Theater, and hand-on workshops and demonstrations. Costumes are welcome!
Cost: Free Sat., Oct. 29, 12-2 p.m. Pelham Art Center 155 Fifth Ave. Pelham, NY Online:pelhamartcenter.org
Día de los Muertos Family Art Projects at Wave Hill
This Family Art Project at Wave Hill will have kids (and their caretakers) make a one-of-a-kind nicho box. These traditional Mexican shadow boxes will be decorated with natural material and found objects, and will house memories of a loved one who has passed.
Día de los Muertos Celebration at the National Museum of the American Indian
The National Museum of the American Indian is putting on a celebration to remember those whom we've lost. The museum will put on two performances by the Aztec dance troupe Cetiliztli Nauhcampa, featuring traditional dances from the area. There will also be a community ofrenda (altar) to honor our ancestors, where offerings can be left.
Day of the Dead 5K and Half Marathon at Flushing Meadows
Stay fit while you celebrate at this 5K and half marathon from Never Stop Running. Run (or walk) past the Unisphere (twice!), around the Fountain of the Planets and finish where you started, near the Queens Theater. The race will happen rain or shine, so get ready for a day out no matter the weather—though there's also a virtual participation option if you'd rather use the treadmill or your local track. Participants in the marathon at the park are welcome to dress up in themed costumes, and all runners will get a themed shirt and participation medal.
Cost: Starts at $30 Sun., Oct. 30, 9 a.m. Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens Theater 14 United Nations Ave. S. Corona, Queens Online:events.elitefeats.com
Mano a Mano Day of the Dead
Mano a Mano has a number of chances to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Stop by the Hispanic Society Museum and Library for a performance by singer Claudia Valentina Montes and interactive art stations. Or, come to St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery for a number of themed activities, including arts and crafts, live music, poetry readings, and the chance to leave an offering at the altar to honor the dead.
Cost: Free Sat., Oct. 15 Hispanic Society Museum & Library 3741 Broadway Washington Heights
Multiple dates and times St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery 131 East 10th St. Lower Manhattan Online:manoamano.nyc
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Brooklyn Children's Museum
The Brooklyn Children's Museum will be holding a two-day workshop where kids can make their own offerings for loved ones they've lost. Led by Brooklyn-based artist Mincho Vega, the event will also feature traditional celebrations of the Day of the Dead, including art, music, dance performed by Cetiliztli Nauhcampa, face paintings, traditional foods, and more.
Cost: Free with admission Sat., Nov. 5-Sun., Nov. 6 Brooklyn Children’s Museum 145 Brooklyn Ave. Online:brooklynkids.org
For a second year in a row, Mexico Week is returning to Rockefeller Center. Visit from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2 to see elements of Mexican heritage, culture, and history brought to life in the plaza. The centerpiece will be the ofrenda—altar for offerings—which will honor modern Mexican sculptors. The display will also feature two alebrijes by Cesar Menchaca: Huge, colorful sculptures of a jaguar and a Quetzalcoatl. Throughout the space, you'll also be able to spot catrinas by Menchaca, which are skeleton figures dressed up glamorously as Mexican and American stars.
Cost: Free Thurs., Oct. 27-Wed., Nov. 2 Rockefeller Center 45 Rockefeller Plaza Online:rockefellercenter.com
Super Family Saturday: Día de los Muertos at Nassau County Museum of Art
Located about an hour from central NYC, this celebration at the Nassau County Museum is worth the trip. The event is split into two timed sessions and will feature hands-on art-making stations, music, performances, and more details to be revealed. Advanced registration is required. While you're there, take the chance to explore the museum's current exhibit, "Other Worlds Than This"—a look beyond our world into the fantasy and spirit realms beyond—which is leaving on November 6.
Cost: $20/adult, $10/child Sat., Nov. 5, 10-11:30 a.m. and 12-1:30 p.m. Nassau County Museum of Art One Museum Drive Roslyn Harbor, NY Online:nassaumuseum.org
El Día de los Muertos by the Arts Council of Princeton
Head to Princeton for a free outdoor festival, featuring Mariachi music, dance performances, food vendors, and hands-on art workshops and projects themed around traditional Mexican folk art. Leave an offering to a loved one at the community altar, make sugar skulls, create decorations with flowers, and much more—all located about half an hour out from central Manhattan!
Cost: Free Sat., Nov. 5, 3-5 p.m. Arts Council of Princeton 102 Witherspoon St. Princeton, NJ Online:artscouncilofprinceton.org
From scary to sweet, Chicago has it all this October. Bonus: many of the family-friendly Halloween events around the city are free!
Here in Chicago, Halloween seems to last the entire month of October, and for many that makes it the most wonderful time of the year. And considering how questionable fall weather can be, it gives everyone the chance to get in on the fun. If one parade or trick-or-treating event gets cancelled due to weather, you have several more to choose from.
So, take a break from getting lost and found in corn mazes and working your way around all the harvest festivals Chicago has to offer to focus on more faboolous fun. There are Halloween events for all ages throughout the city (and nearby suburbs), from the scary to the sweet, and we’ve rounded up some of the best. Go to one or go to all—we dare you!
Free Halloween Events in Chicago
Chicago Pumpkin Patches & Halloween Parties
Halloween in the Parks
The Chicago Park District will host pumpkin patches with decorating stations, Halloween-themed carnival games, inflatables, and some surprise visitors. Pumpkins cost $5. They will also host numerous Halloween celebrations in the parks. Events vary by location but many include costumes, treats, and games.
Pier Pumpkin Lights
Navy Pier will once again transform into an experiential fall spectacle with nearly 1,000 pumpkins for the month of October. Guests will explore a variety of pumpkin pop-up installations and enjoy Pier-wide deals and other Halloween festivities throughout the month.
Oct. 1-31
600 E. Grand Ave.
River North Online:navypier.org
Gallagher Way Annual Pumpkin Party
Trick or treat among the various candy stations, dance and sing along to music by the Old Town School of Folk Music, and/or make a kid craft. Be on the look-out for wandering performers such as stilt walkers, magicians, caricature artists and balloon artists. There will be lots of lawn games and every kid can leave with a free junior pumpkin. 1pm-5pm
Movies at Gallagher Way
Pack a picnic and lay down a blanket at Gallagher Way for some Halloween themed movies, starting with Coco, followed by Gremlins and Hocus Pocus. Gates open at 6 p.m. Movies start at 7 p.m. Alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for sale at the park.
Oct. 6, 12, 19
3635 N. Clark St.
Lakeview Online:gallagherway.com
Wednesday Night Live – Halloween Edition
Decorate a pumpkin, dress up for a costume contest, and stay for a free outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus in the Ainslie Art Plaza. Gates will open at 5 p.m. with the movie starting around 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 19
4844 N. Lincoln Avenue
Lincoln Square Online:lincolnsquare.org
Chicago Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Events
Pup-O-Ween
Take your pup trick-or-treating around Ainslie Arts Plaza. Vendors will be passing out various treats and promotions to pets and owners alike.
Oct. 22
4844 N. Lincoln Ave.
Lincoln Square Online:lincolnsquare.org
Spooky Zoo
Kids can trick-or-treat around the Lincoln Park Zoo grounds from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or while supplies last. Families can stick around to enjoy the fall fest, seasonal food and drink, or other family-friendly entertainment.
Oct. 22
2001 N. Clark St.
Lincoln Park Online:lpzoo.org
Roscoe Village Halloween Block Party
Roscoe Street will be shut down from Damen to Hoyne. Wear your costume and at 12 p.m. join or watch the parade. The parade ends at Damen where the marching band will give a final performance before the kids are let loose to trick-or-treat at all the local businesses. Families can also congregate in the center for Halloween themed activities and a live DJ. The party will wrap up at 4 p.m.
Oct. 23
Roscoe St. between Damen and Hoyne
Roscoe Village Online:roscoevillage.org
Trick or Treat Southport
Trick or Treat on Southport is a free annual community event featuring family-friendly activities, a pumpkin patch, pet parade and trick or treating at local businesses. Enjoy food trucks and a beer tent. 4pm-8pm
Lincoln Scared Ravenswoooood
For one day, Lincoln Square and Ravenswood will transform into Lincoln Scared and RAVENSWoooooD as children trick-or-treat between participating businesses from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Maps of participating businesses are available online.
Oct. 30
Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods Online:lincolnsquare.org
NorthCenter Trick-or-Treat
NorthCenter will host a morning of trick-or-treating around local business, as well as free crafts and entertainment in the Town Square
Wicked West Trick or Treat
Commercial Park will host a Halloween Parade & After Party from 2 p.m.-3:15 p.m. immediately followed by safe and family-friendly trick-or-treating around the local retail business and restaurants.
Upside Down Halloween Parade
The 2022 Upside Down Halloween Parade, presented by LUMA8 and the City of Chicago, is a bit off-kilter. Instead of a parade passing its audience as it marches down the street, dance troupes, circus acrobats, musical groups, and more will occupy a stationary space and parade goers will walk past them, giving ample time to enjoy each performance. Halloween costumes are encouraged, and complimentary goody bags sponsored by Blommer Chocolate Company, Mars Wrigley, and others will be handed out.
Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
The Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade is the most fun and unique parade. Parade participants represent the many art institutions including performing arts theaters around the city, each accompanying an imaginative float or staging creative performances along the parade route. Costumes are made to glow-in-the-dark for added spectacle. 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Oct. 29
State St. from Lake to Van Buren
The Loop Online:artsinthedark.com
Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
If anyone has any energy left after trick-or-treating, stop by the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade. Participants pull out all the stops for their costumes. See dancers and fire-eaters, and the most elaborate costumes.
Oct. 31
Halsted St. from Belmont to Brompton
Lakeview Online:northalsted.com
Highwood Pumpkin Fest Carnival
Highwood’s annual pumpkin fest features carnival rides, games, food, live music, and plenty of pumpkins! There’s also a Super Hero 5K fun run, walk, & stroll. Admission is free. Games and rides are additional fees.
The 13th Floor Chicago Get ready for the most fun you’ve ever had getting scared at the world-famous 13th Floor Haunted House in Chicago! New this year, they also have mini escape rooms for only $5 per game. The 13th Floor is not recommended for kids under 13.
Nightmare on Clark Street For a few weeks of fall, Deuce’s Major League Bar in Wrigleyville transforms into Nightmare on Clark Street. The Halloween Pop-up includes an over-the-top immersive haunted house experience for those who dare. Tickets are required. Kids must be 15 or older and must be accompanied by an adult. If the haunted house is too terrifying, you can just enjoy the ghoulish decor, themed cocktails, and festive snacks by reserving a table online. Kids are welcome before 5pm on weekdays or before noon on the weekends.
Oct. 1-31
3505 N. Clark St.
Lakeview Online:deucesmlb.com
TILT Terror Nights
After 6 p.m., 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the top of the John Hancock Building will host TILT Terror Nights where you can experience a longer, more intense experience on Chicago’s highest thrill ride. Note: you must be 42 inches or taller to take part.
Oct. 1-31
875 N. Michigan Ave.
Magnificent Mile Online:360chicago.com
Six Flags Great America Fright Fest
Go early to admire the Halloween decorations and seasonal menu items. Stay for the rides, live shows, the Monster Bash (an interactive Halloween party for tiny goblins), and the trick-or-treating on Saturdays and Sundays. But make your way to the exit at 5:45pm when The Uprising Parade: Nightly Call of the Dead begins. This is the cue for kids 13 and under to make their way to the park exit or dare to be scared. Fright Fest includes four different haunted houses and four different scare zones, where you can expect to be terrorized by jump scares.
Sep. 17-Oct. 31
1 Great America Pkwy
Gurnee, IL Online:sixflags.com
Boo! at the Zoo
If the zoo was photo worthy already, several Halloween themed photo spots have been created to fulfill all your Instagram needs. There are giant inflatables, a “Crazed Maize,” a Creepy Carousel, and Zoo Chats each day. Pumpkins are given to different animals on different days (check the online schedule), and everyone gets a treat as you leave. Guests age 13 or older are not permitted in the zoo wearing full-body costumes with their head covered.
Drive-In Movies
Fill up your car with snacks and kids, and head over to Little Beans Cafe for a special screening of The Adams Family 2 from 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. There will be 15 car spots ($30/car) and 10 blanket and chair spots ($20/spot) in the parking lot. Tune into the sound on your radio.
The Forge Celebrates Halloween
All ages can enjoy hayrides through the Quarries, ghost stories in the forest, scavenger hunts, a costume contest, dance party, and family movie beginning at 2pm.
Oct. 15, 16, 29, 30
1001 Main St.
Lemont, IL Online:forgeparks.com
Chicago Ride-Thru Halloween Attractions
Santa’s Village Spooktacular Drive-Thru
Visit Santa’s Village Spooktacular Drive-Thru this October for a Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Experience. The park will be transformed into a Halloween Haven with family-friendly scenes, featuring The Witches Broom Lot, Mad Scientist, Alien Landing, Monster Mash Bash, and more. At the end of the route, enjoy tasty treats, including funnel cakes and hot chocolate, photo opportunities, and fun activities.
Oct. 1, 2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-23, 27-31
601 Dundee Ave.
East Dundee, IL Online:santasvillagedundee.com
Pumpkin Train Take a ride on a Halloween-themed electric interurban trains to the Illinois Railway Museum’s own pumpkin patch. Plenty of pumpkins and picture opps await!
