ML Interest Tag: dance-theater

Summer Music Festivals for the Whole Family

by Kate Loweth

Sway, spin and definitely sing along at one of these celebrations of summer! Music festivals all over the Bay are just ramping up so now is a great time to get some of your favorites on the calendar. Bring some bites or buy them on-site, pack the blankets and sunscreen and head out. Let the good vibrations carry you through the warm summer days.

photo: Kidchella/Joel Wade Photography

San Francisco

Union Square Live
Entice the kids to go shopping and then the whole family can boogie down to salsa, swing and more. The people-watching is at its best here, where tourists (wearing shorts) and locals (wearing sweaters) mix. Top off the day with a huge slice of cheesecake.

Date: now through Sept. 26
Time: 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays
Cost: Free

333 Post St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: unionsquarelive.org

Flower Piano at the San Francisco Botanical Garden
For twelve days this summer, visitors to the SF Botanical Garden have the opportunity to interact with pianos out in nature. Now in its fifth year, this year’s Flower Piano offers new opportunities for the public to play, more performances by professional musicians, special events for families including the new evening-time Flower Piano at Sunset, a community sing-along, free piano lessons and three evenings of Flower Piano at Night, a special after dark event with food trucks and outdoor bars.

Dates: July 11-22, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

1199 9th Ave.
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco, CA
Online: sfbg.org/flowerpiano

photo: Yerba Buena Gardens Festival

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
This festival’s green and spacious area just begs for a downtown picnic, whether from your own kitchen or one of the foodie take-out options along the way. Entertainment includes classical and Latin music as well as dance, theater and more. Kids shouldn’t favorites like Caterpillar Puppets, Pi Clowns, Red Panda Acrobats, Circus Bella’s display of trapeze, juggling, contortion and clowning.

Date: Now through Oct. 27
Time: Weekend and weekday lunchtime events
Cost: Free

Mission St, between 3rd and 4th
San Francisco, CA
Online: ybgfestival.org

photo: Stern Grove Festival

Stern Grove Festival
Bundle the kiddos up against the foggy chill, and let their dancing legs loose on perennial favorites like the San Francisco Symphony and Ballet. Moms and dads will love groovin’ to bands like Ziggy Marley and The Revolution. Bop on over early to Stern Grove from noon-1:30 p.m. each Sunday for a special KidStage performance and activity before the main event. Stern Grove also offers “Kid Days” which are free interactive arts education programs for children ages 4-11 at Sigmund Stern Grove (pre-registration is required).

Date: Sundays, June 16-Aug. 18
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free

19th Ave. at Sloat Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
Online: sterngrove.org

photo: Charity and the JAMBand

JAMBand Family Festival
Unleash your tiny dancers in the mosh pit of free, outdoor family concerts on the lawn at the Park Chalet. Charity and the JamBAND will have everyone—even dads—on their feet. Park Chalet food and beverages are available for a fee or bring your own eats from home.

Date: June 9, Sep. 22, Oct. 27
Time: 3-5 p.m.
Cost: Free

The Park Chalet
1000 Great Hwy
San Francisco, CA
Online: jamjamjam.com

photo: Point Richmond Music Festival

East Bay

Point Richmond Music Festival
Rock the corner of Park Place and Washington Avenue with musicians that’ll get those little legs shaking to blues, samba and more. These family-friendly events each feature two bands as well as other activities, such as face-painting. Good, wholesome family fun!

Date: June 14, July 12, Aug. 9, Sept. 13
Time: 5:30-7:45 p.m.
Cost: Free

Park Place and Washington Ave.
Point Richmond, CA
Online: pointrichmondmusic.org

Kaiser Center’s Lakeside Roof Garden Series
A hidden musical gem in downtown Oakland, the Kaiser Center’s Lakeside Roof Garden Concerts enliven the Lake Merritt greenspace with lunch hour concerts. The program has a wide variety of artists – enjoy dance hits from The Party Crashers and funk from Kenya B Band, among others.

Date: Fridays, June 14–Sept. 13
Time: noon–1 p.m.
Cost: Free

Kaiser Center Roof Garden (Take any elevator located in the Kaiser garage to the ‘RG’ level to access the Roof Garden)
300 Lakeside Drive
Oakland, CA
Online: kaisercenterroofgarden.com

photo: Kidchella

Peninsula

Music is Everywhere in Redwood City
From their rockin’ Music on the Square (Friday nights, featuring pros playing tribute to Journey, The Eagles and more) to the killer kids music fest Kidchella (Sunday afternoons) to waterside concerts at Marlin Park, Redwood City will have everyone up and dancing all summer. The only groove-buster will be the encroaching bedtime hour.

Kidchella
Date: Sundays, June 23, July 21, Aug. 18 and Sept. 9
Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway

Music on the Square
Date: Fridays, through Aug. 30
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway

Sounds of the Shores
Date: Sundays, June 23, July 21 and Aug. 18
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: Marlin Park, Corner of Neptune and Cringle

Music in the Park
Date: Wednesdays, June 12-Aug. 14
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: Stafford Park, Corner of King St. & Hopkins Ave

Classical Series
Date: June 22, July 21, Sept. 8
Time: varies
Cost: Free
Where: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway

Online: redwoodcity.org

CuriOdyssey’s Summer Music Festival
This summer, relax and have fun as a family at CuriOdyssey’s Summer Music Festival. On June 7, dance to the rhythms of New Orleans with Medicine Ball Music. On July 5, sway to the infectious rhythms of Calypso, Reggae, Zouk and Soca with Shabang. On August 2, rock to rhythm and blues with Sunny & the Black Pack. Enjoy a cash bar and hot dinner for purchase while the kids play with seriously fun, hands-on science exhibits and meet CuriOdyssey’s animals.

Dates: June 7, July 5  and August 2
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Cost: included with admission

CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Dr.
San Mateo

Online: curiodyssey.org

Music is Magic
This playground that welcomes kids of all abilities just got even cooler by hosting a slew of family-friendly music performances on Fridays this summer. Enjoy the sounds of Andy Z, Tim Cain, Noise Lab and more at the community theater in the park. Then swing over the playground for some fun in the sun.

Date: Fridays, through Aug. 30
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Mitchell Park
600 East Meadow Road
Palo Alto, CA
Online: magicalbridge.org/palo-alto

photo: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

South Bay

San Jose Jazz Summerfest
This festival brings artists with chops—more than 120 Grammy winners, powerhouse jazz players and acclaimed folk drummers—to the Plaza de Cesar Chavez, fronting the Fairmont. In addition to 10 stages (!!) kids can scat-a-tat-tat over to the family fun zone while listening to traditional jazz, funk, Bombay jazz and more. Check out the “Big Easy Parade” on Saturday.

Date: Aug. 9-11
Cost: Varies by package; click below.

Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park
170 S. Market St.
San Jose, CA
Online: sanjosejazz.org

Santana Row Summer Music Series
Every Tuesday in July you can set up your blanket or chair in Santana Row’s Park Valencia and enjoy the tunes under the palm trees. Cover bands bring the generations together. Grab some fresh eats at Poke Bar and then line up for some made-to-order ice cream from Smitten to complete the summer dream.

Date: Tuesdays in July
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free

Santana Row – Park Valencia, San Jose
Online: santanarow.com

photo: Vasona Vibrations

Vasona Vibrations
It’s the 16th year of this music festival that takes place during June and July in Vasona Lake County Park. Bring your blanket and some dinner or purchase some tasty eats from one of the food trucks on-site. Parking is free on nearby University Ave. or pay $6 to grab a spot inside the park. There’s a playground nearby if the kids get antsy.

Date: Saturdays in June and July
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Cost: Free, $6 to park inside Vasona

Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
Online: vasonavibrations.org

Jazz on the Plazz
Every Wednesday evening Jazz on the Plazz presents free concerts on the Los Gatos Town Plaza. This series focusing mostly on vocal talent, giving the plaza the feel of an intimate night club. Singers such as Paula West and The Funky Godfather will croon to the moon.

Date: Wednesdays, June 19–Aug. 21
Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free, but there is the option to reserve prime seating for a cost

Los Gatos Town Plaza
Online: jazzontheplazz.com

Friday Night Bands on the Beach
What could be better than sunset, surf and song? The Santa Cruz Boardwalk continues its annual classic beach concerts with shows from Taylor Dayne, Smash Mouth and 10,000 Maniacs and so many more. Stretch out your blanket and watch the kiddos rave. Your tiny dancers are guaranteed to sleep during the car ride home.

Date: Friday nights, June 14-Aug. 30
Time: Two shows: 6:30 and 8:30p.m.
Cost: Free

400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA
Online: beachboardwalk.com

Marin and Further North

Napa City Nights
Kids can run the promenade while parents enjoy the river view in this multi-sensual experience. Concerts feature surf rock, blues, funk, classical and more. Families can share cheesesticks, pretzels and yogurt squeezes on their blankets, or dine upscale at the walkable, amazing restaurants with breakable glasses. There’s public transportation via Napa Vine.

Dates: Friday nights, through Aug. 23
Time: 6:30-10 p.m.
Cost: Free

Veterans Memorial Park Amphitheater
Main Street, Napa, CA
Online: napacitynights.com

Cotati Accordion Festival
This festival gives many kids their first glimpse of the beloved squeezebox. The dancing is not just for grandparents, either. Little polka-ers can work up a sweat in the mayhem of dance sessions from Squeezy Peezy, The Wild Catahoulas, and MotorDude Zydeco to name a few.

Date: Aug. 17-18
Time: 9:30 a.m.–8 p.m.

La Plaza Park
Cotati, CA
Online: cotatifest.com

Photo: Funky Fridays

Funky Fridays
Dance the night away with Sonoma’s Funky Friday outdoor concert series on the lawn of the historic Hood Mansion. This being Sonoma, you can expect plenty of great food and drink from vendors including Henhouse Brewing Company, Kenwood Vinyards, TIPS Tri Tip Trolley and much more. With a new group playing each week you’ll need to swing by more than once this summer.

Date: Every Friday through Aug. 30
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Cost: $10/adult; free for kids 18 and under

Hood Mansion
N Pythian Road off Hwy 12
Santa Rosa, CA
Online: funkyfridays.info

—Kate Loweth, Erin Feher, Shelly Hausman and Christal Yuen

Featured photo: Joel Wade Photography

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Free and Fun Summer Activities

by April Hasson

After a snowy winter and rainy spring, we’ve earned some summer fun with the fam! There are plenty of opportunities to see movies, go for a hike, and enjoy outdoor concerts. Best of all – the resources we’ve rounded up here are all free! Read on for our favorite fun summer.

Movies in the Park

courtesy Portland Parks and Recreation

Portland Parks and Recreation hosts a whopping 39 free movie events this summer, each offering free popcorn and pre-show entertainment in the form of live musicians ranging from jazz to classical to rock. Check out screenings of Moana, Star Wars and Ferdinand, amongst many others, with friends and family under the stars. Leashed dogs are allowed, too!

When: 6:30 p.m., nights vary
Where: various Portland area parks
Online:portlandoregon.gov/parks/69554

Washington Park Summer Festival

courtesy Portland Parks and Recreation

There isn’t a setting more beautiful to enjoy music than the Washington Park International Rose Test Garden. This year’s lineup features Rejoice! Diaspora Dance Theater; Opera in the Park—Tosca by Giacomo Puccini; and Orquestra Pacifico Tropical. Come early to enjoy hands on art activities, and to secure your spot with a blanket. Try taking the MAX to avoid parking congestion, and bring plenty of snacks.

When: July 27-29 at 6 p.m.
Where: International Rose Test Garden Amphitheater, 410 SW Kingston Ave.
Online: portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489145

Swimming

courtesy Portland Parks and Recreation

Need a way to beat the heat? Free Open Play swimming is offered at the following locations and times:

Mon. 1-4 p.m., Creston Pool, 4454 SE Powell Blvd.               
Tues. 1-2:30 p.m., Montavilla Pool, 8219 NE Glisan St.
Wed. 1:15–3:00 p.m., Grant Pool, 2300 NE 33rd Avenue
Wed. 2–3:45 p.m., Columbia Pool, 7701 N Chautauqua Blvd.
Wed. 7:30–8:50 p.m., Sellwood Pool, 7951 SE 7th Avenue
Thurs. 1:05–2:55 p.m., Peninsula Pool, 700 N Rosa Parks Way
Fri. 1:45PM–4:30 p.m., Pier Pool, 9341 N St. Johns Ave.

Online: portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489147

Hawthorne Street Fair

Humam T via Yelp

Enjoy live music, activities and over 100 local businesses and vendors at this eclectic outdoor-based event. Enjoy free samples, demos and discounts. Kids (and adults!) will love the face painting, misting tent, crafts and photo booth.

When: August 26
Where: SE Hawthorne Blvd
Online: hawthornepdx.com/event/hawthorne-street-fair/

Portland Children’s Museum

courtesy of Portland Children's Museum

When it’s hot outside, head inside to the museum where children are not only allowed to touch the art, but are encouraged to explore the exhibits! Splash in the Water Works area before checking out the Treehouse Adventure area, and end with a calming tactile visit to the clay studio.

When: Free on the first Friday of each month from 4-8 p.m.
Where: 4015 SW Canyon Rd.
Online: portlandcm.org

Nature Walks

courtesy of Friends of Tryon Creek

The Friends of Tryon Creek program integrates nature exploration, art, literature, movement, and outdoor play.  Each walk has a theme, such as salamanders, forest moles, or worms. The program is geared toward families with children aged 2-6, but all are welcome.

When: Thursdays 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m and 1-2:15 p.m. from May 1 through June 1, 2018. Register in person 30 minutes before program.
Where: The Friends of Tryon Creek Nature Center, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd
Online: https://tryonfriends.org/calendar/2018

Urban Walks

Lauren A via Yelp

The City of Portland’s Ten Toe Express walks are great for little history buffs, budding architects, future landscapers, and babies in strollers. Most of the walks are relatively flat and paved, and are typically about three miles long over about two hours. Each walk has a different theme. Check out The Historic Black Williams Project walk, which acknowledges the complex and changing history of Williams Avenue by viewing 40 art installation honoring the role Portland’s Black community, or the Feig & Jacobberger Historic Residences walk, which tours apartments and single-family homes in NW Portland designed by two of Portland most prolific architects.

When: Thursdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m. from May 3 through September 8, 2018.  No registration is required.
Where: Each walk starts from a designated starting point, varying by tour.
Online: portlandoregon.gov/transportation/article/401203

What’s your favorite free summer activity? Let us know in the Comments section below!

— April Hasson

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April’s Must-Dos: These Events Will Put a Spring in Your Step!

by Mimi O'Connor

Spring has sprung — and NYC is read to party! Celebrate the opening day of a baseball diamond, a roller rink, or a foodie destination. Take part in a giant pillow fight for a good cause, rock out at an exhibit in Queens, or drop in to a carnival just for kids. But wait, there’s more! Read on to fill your April with all kinds of fun!

photo: Jeff Lagasca via Flickr

Pillow Fight NYC
The Urban Play Movement and newmindspace host this free event that this year, benefits Dare2B, which fights to eliminate child poverty and homelessness in New York City. Bring a feather-free pillow to Washington Square Park for some old school pillow fight fun, and donate it after the hilarity ends. Note: there are de-linting stations on site, too. Whether you participate or just watch, it’s a once-a-year event worth checking out!

April 2, 3-6 p.m.
Washington Square Park
West Village
Online: facebook.com/events

Prospect Park Opening Weekend
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for a weekend full of events celebrating the park and the start of baseball season and more. On Sat., April 2, from 10:00-10:30, more than 1,000 junior baseball players ages four to 18 will parade down Seventh Avenue led by a marching band and civic leaders. It all ends at the Long Meadow Ball Field, where a ribbon cutting and ceremonial first pitch will the thrown. Hit the opening weekend of food cart market Smorgaburg from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Breeze Hill in the park, stop by the Lefferts Historic House to plant some spring seeds (and take one home) or visit the park’s Audubon Center for bird watching and nature exploration.

April 2 & 3
Tickets: free; suggested donation of $3 at Lefferts Historic House
Prospect Park
Online: prospectpark.org

Yankees & Mets Opening Day
The Bronx Bombers up against the Houston Astros on April 4, while the Mets take on the Philadelphia Phillies on April 8. Of course, tickets are hard to come by now, but maybe you know a guy who knows a guy?

April 4 & April 8
Online: newyork.yankees, newyork.mets.

Queens County Farm Museum Children’s Carnival
Head to the farm on two weekends in April for a kid’s carnival full of amusement park rides, midway games, pony rides, hay rides and children’s entertainment. Plus, a seasonal petting zoo for an additional fee.

April 9 & 10; April 16 & 17, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Tickets: $12
73-50 Little Neck Pkwy
Queens
718-347-3276
Online: queensfarm.org

photo: via Lakeside BKLYN Facebook page

LeFrak at Lakeside Roller Rink Opens
Swap out the blade for some wheels and hit the opening day of the roller rink at LeFrak at Lakeside

April 9, Noon-7 p.m.
Tickets: $8/person; $6/skate rental
171 East Dr.
Prospect Park
718-462-0010
Online: lakesidebrooklyn.com

photo: via Queens Museum Facebook page

Hey! Ho! Let’s Go!: The Ramones and the Birth of Punk
Got a rocker in the house? Head to this exhibit at the Queens Museum celebrating the hometown ruffians known as The Ramones. Marking the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the group’s first album, this show explores The Ramones’ roots in Forest Hills, while also reviewing the band’s significant influence on rock music, fashion, art, comics and more.

April 10-July 31
Tickets: $8/adults; $4/seniors, free/children 18 and under
Queens Museum
New York City Building
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
718-592-9700
Online: queensmuseum.org

photo: via Peppa Pig Live! Facebook page

Peppa Pig Live!: Peppa’s Big Splash
UK sensation Peppa Pig crosses the pond for the first time for Peppa Pig Live!: Peppa’s Big Splash! Life-size puppets hit the stage for lots of singing, dancing, games and jumping in puddles, of course.

April 9 & 10
Tickets: $40-$60
Beacon Theater
2124 Broadway at 74th St.
Upper West Side
212-465-6500
Online: peppapigliveus.com

photo: New Victory Theater

Bello Mania
The high-flying, seventh-generation clown with the sky-high hairdo is returning to the New Victory Theater for another springtime run. (The two previous ones have sold out.) Recommended for kids ages five and up.

April 15-May 1
Tickets: Starting at $15
209 W. 42nd St.
Times Square
646-223-3010
Online: http://www.newvictory.org

photo: Earth Day Initiative via Flickr

Earth Day Celebration in Union Square
Celebrate Earth Day a little early (the Sunday before) at this annual event dedicated to preserving and protecting the third planet from the Sun. Learn more about environmental campaigns, green lifestyle products, and people doing great green work in NYC. Expect dozens of exhibitors, interactive displays, live performances, and kids’ activities. Also, learn more about the #carfreenyc initiative, a citywide campaign to promote greener and healthier modes of transportation in the city.

April 17, Noon-7 p.m.
Union Square North Plaza
Union Square
Online: earthdayinitiative.org

Earth Day
Celebrate Earth day at a place that’s all about earth! The New York Botanical Garden will be holding interactive gardening activities for kids at the Howell Family Garden; kids will be invited on a vernal investigation in the Adventure Garden, as they look for signs of spring, and the whole family can learn about composting with worms at the Howell Adventure Garden. (See website for times.) Visitors can take in a tour of the Native Plant Garden or the Forest, too.

April 22, 11 a.m.  – 6 p.m.
Tickets:  $20/adults;$18/student/senior; $10/kids two–12; free for children under two
2900 Southern Blvd.
Bronx
718-817-8700
Online: nybg.org

photo: via St. George Festival Facebook page

St. George Day on Staten Island
This all-volunteer community festival celebrating Earth Day and the arts is a veritable explosion of music, dance, art, puppetry, and more. In addition to a parade featuring giant puppets in the form of dragons and other creatures, the fest also has a dedicated Kid Zone, arts and crafts, a “free store” (for swapping goods) and a book fair.

April 23, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tompkinsville Park
Staten Island
Online: stgeorgedaysi.com

Arbor Week at Wave Hill
Wave Hill dedicates and entire week to celebrating trees, with a variety of family art projects, tree walks, a bike ride, demonstrations on how to grow trees! The week opens with weekday family art-making and extends into a weekend celebration with tree walks, a bike ride, a cooking demo, a tree-themed Family Art Project, a demo on growing trees and shrubs in containers and drop-in art workshop all about the art of sgraffito.

April 26-May 1
West 249th Street and Independence Avenue
Tickets: $8/adults; $2/children over six; free/children under six and members
718-549-3200
Bronx
Online: wavehill.org

photo: Jiashiang via Flickr

Sakura Matsuri 2016 at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Some call this yearly celebration of cherry blossoms the true kickoff to spring in NYC. This year marks the 35th annual festival, and the garden is pulling out all the stops for this kid-friendly event. Expect more than 60 cultural events and performances over two days, including traditional tea ceremonies and dance, high energy sets from J-pop stars, cos play, a J-pop dance party, martial arts, and much more — plus a glorious display of blossoms. Tip: members and advance ticket holders skip the line to get in, so buy tickets now.

Sakura Matsuri
April 30-May 1
Tickets: $25/adults; $20/seniors; free/kids 12 and under and members
990 Washington Ave.
Crown Heights
Online: bbg.org

Meet Me at the Fountain
In this site-specific, interactive adventure set across the sprawling Lincoln Center campus, audiences young and old help a secret crime-fighting team to stop a diabolical plot to sabotage an opera diva on her big night.

April 30, May 21 & 22
Tickets: $25/person
Lincoln Center
Online: family.lincolncenter.org

photo: Eden, Janine and Jim via Flickr

9th Annual Street Games
Take in some old school fun at this free festival in Harlem celebrating low-tech and high energy fun like hippity-hop, double dutch, hula hoop, skateboarding, street hockey, yo-yo-ing, pogo sticks and more! Live entertainment and DJs will be on hand, as will dancers from Dance Theater of Harlem.

April 30, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tickets: free
Thomas Jefferson Park
114th Street and fourth Avenue
Harlem
212-360-1319
Online: nycgovparks.org

Home Games Opening at Staten Island Museum
Head to the opening day of this exhibit that celebrates sports heroes from Staten Island for family fun activities from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

April 30, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tickets: $8/adults; $2/children 2 – 12;
Staten Island Museum in St. George
75 Stuyvesant Pl.
718-727-1135
Online: statenislandmuseum.org

What is your go-to event for April? Tell us in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

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Bust a Move: NYC Hip-Hop Dance Classes for Kids

by angela johnson-archer

New York City is known around the world as the birthplace of hip-hop. From the Boogie-Down Bronx to Crooklyn, New York has dope beats coming out of every borough. But what used to be considered an underground culture born on the streets, is now majorly mainstream. Proof?: The city that reveres Biggie and the Beastie Boys as much as the Statue of Liberty is full of places where kids as young as four (!) can learn the freshest hip-hop dance moves. We’ve rounded up just a few of our favorites here; click through to ch-check it out.

photo: Hip-Hop 4 Kids at the Ailey Extension. Photo by Joe Epstein

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The world-renowned Alvin Ailey Dance Theater offers Hip-Hop 4 Kids to little ones, ages 7-11. Get funky with experienced teachers who will guide your tiny dancers through basic hip-hop moves, focusing on alignment, technique and most importantly, fun.

Cost: $435; Sept 13, 2015 – Dec. 20, 2015

405 W. 55th St.
212-405-9000
Midtown
Online: alvinailey.org

Brooklyn Arts Exchange
Kids ages 10-13 will learn all of the basics of hip-hop dance, including power moves, popping, freezing and crumping to the latest hip-hop and pop music at this Park Slope cultural center. Dancers will be encouraged to come up with their own funky dance sequences based on their knowledge of the basics. Tuition assistance is available.

Cost: $358, Sept. 30, 2015-Jan. 30, 2016
421 Fifth Ave.
718-832-0018
Park Slope
Online: bax.org

Mark Morris Dance Center
Brooklyn is holding its own as a cultural mecca. The Mark Morris Dance Group, located in Downtown Brooklyn, has helped put the borough on the map. Its Dance Center offers classes for young dancers ages 6 – 18, including Jazz/Hip-hop fusion and Breakdance Basics. Students learn hip-hop fundamentals as well as the elements of safety while performing.

Cost: $470; Sept. 16, 2015 – Jan. 1, 2016
3 Lafayette Ave.
718-624-8400
Fort Greene

Online: markmorrisdancegroup.org

photo: via Downtown Dance Factory Facebook page

Downtown Dance Factory
This TriBeCa studio was founded by two local moms who had a desire to offer fun and creative classes that would allow young people to express themselves through music. Kindihop, geared towards preschoolers ages 3-5, teaches the basics of jazz and hip-hop technique to the funkiest beats. Got a budding B-boy? Kindiboys teaches the fundamentals of b-boying including footwork to preschoolers. Once they’ve perfected their B-boy stance, DDF offers Jazz/Hip-hop fusion and Street Hip-hop classes for kids in grades K – 8.

Cost: $750; Sept. 16, 2015 – Feb. 1, 2016

291 Broadway, 5th Fl.
212-962-1800
Tribeca
Online: downtowndancefactory.com

American Youth Dance Theater
To say that hip-hop dance involves fast-paced, intricate steps is an understatement. Classes at this Upper East Side dance studio focus on helping kids ages 4 and up build the strength and endurance they need to keep up with the choreography. Experienced teachers work with students on learning hip-hop style and technique in a fun and creative way. Students have a chance to showcase their work at the school’s annual holiday and spring recitals.

Cost: $673; Sept 8, 2015 – Jan. 30, 2016

428 E. 75th St.
212-717-5419
Upper East Side
Online: americanyouthdancetheater.com

photo: JCC

JCC
Hip-hop is in high demand on the Upper West side the the JCC! Kids as young as four and as old as nine learn the basics, as well as strengthening exercises and choreography, while gaining coordination, body awareness, teamwork skills and more. A final show caps off every semester.

Cost: $550/members; $705/public; Sept 9, 2015-Jan. 13, 2016

334 Amsterdam Ave. at 76th St.
Upper West Side
646-505-4444
Online: jccmanhattan.org/programs

92nd Street Y
For over 100 years, the 92nd Street Y has given some of the best artists a platform to showcase their work. Today, students ages 6 and up can study hip-hop technique as they learn to create their own basic choreography. The budding B-boys and girls get to show off their best moves in a final performance showcase. Older dancers (ages 12-18) can audition for the Fresh Y Crew, a Jazz/Hip-Hop performing group.

Cost: Cost and dates vary by class; see website for details.

1395 Lexington Ave.
Upper East Side
212-415-5500
Online: 92y.org

photo: via Soul Arts Academy Facebook page

Soul Arts Academy
Old school is cool at Soul Arts Academy! This downtown studio prides itself on giving students a well-rounded dance education. Students ages 6-13 learn about the history of this creative form of dance, building a foundation of basic moves that they then transform into more complex series of steps.

Cost: $595; Sept. 16, 2015-Jan. 25, 2016

552 Broadway
212-254-0454
Manhattan
Online: soulartsacademy.com

photo: Lotus Creations

Lotus Creations
One of the goals of non-profit performing arts organization Lotus Creations is to offer affordable dance instruction to all who wish to learn. Drop-in youth hip-hop classes, for kids ages 7-11 are offered for $10 every Saturday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. If your kids gets really good, he or she could be invited to be part of the organization’s Traveling Lotus Youth Group which performs throughout the city.

Cost: $10/class with discounts for bulk lesson purchases; Sept. 19-Dec. 19

143 Waverly Ave.
Trilok Fusion Center for the Arts
Fort Greene
646-751-7705
Online: lotuswecreate.org

Queens Dance Project
Hip-hop pioneers LLCoolJ and Run DMC hail from Queens, so this borough takes the art form very seriously. Weekly classes are available for kids beginning at age 4, and give them an education in the fundamentals of hip-hop dance. Don’t be surprised if your kids ask you for a pair of Adidas and a Kangol hat when they’re done!

214-26 41st Ave.
718-229-1133
Bayside
Online: queensdanceproject.com

Does your child take hip-hop in the city? Tell us where in the comments below!

—Angela Johnson-Archer

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Immerse Your Family in the Language of the City

by LeTania Kirkland Smith

Our city speaks more than one language, and many of us want our kids to, too! Story times, classes, camps and concerts all come in bilingual options to introduce even the littlest of linguists to the wonders of languages, or keep them practicing when school is out for the summer. Get kids habla-ing Espanol from babies on up, and get a jump on raising little world citizens.

photo credit: LeTania Kirkland

Bilingual and Language Immersion Classes

The Awesome Playground
While this Highland Park fixture is well known for the indoor playground, the play land offers more. The Awesome Academy hosts weekly Spanish classes for preschoolers and kids in grades 1-5. Marcela Hernandez, a seasoned elementary school teacher who specializes in Special Education, aims to keep learning fun and build confidence in her students that will help them in their every day school setting. Hernandez introduces preschoolers to basic vocabulary and the Spanish alphabet by using a daily theme and exploring it through songs and art. Elementary students learn more extensive vocabulary and the nuts and bolts of sentence structure.

Bonus: If you have the siblings in tow, they can play in the indoor play space during class.

The Awesome Playground
5158 York Blvd.
Highland Park
Phone: 323-256-2467
Online: theawesomeplayground.com

photo credit: LeTania Kirkland

Baila Baila
Isabel Brazon leads kids of all ages with her fun and energetic music classes. Kids are introduced to a conversational approach to language through song as they sing, play instruments and dance. Brazon introduces phrases and concepts through songs and encourages everyone to join in by introducing themselves (“Me llamo _______”), expressing their feelings (muy bien) and learning colors. Baila Baila classes are offered at multiple venues throughout the city. Classes are on a drop-in basis and 45 minutes per session.

Bonus: Baila Baila can also be seen in concert. Check the website for dates and venues.

Baila Baila
Online: bailabailaonline.com

 

photo credit: courtesy of the Zimmer Museum

The Zimmer Museum
The Zimmer Museum in Mid-City offers language immersion and bilingual classes for preschoolers. Toddler Town is a language immersion program where teachers and students speak only in their chosen subject. Classes are offered in Spanish, Farsi and Japanese. Littles enter the world of language with an opening song, then break out into sensory, art and dramatic play stations where they can get hands on with items from the day’s theme all while being introduced to the vocabulary of their chosen language. ROCKeros Pequeños is a bilingual music class where kids are introduced to Spanish vocabulary and concepts through, song, movement, instruments and rhythm. After circle time, your little rocker can dress up in their best performance gear and sing a tune en Espanol at the Karaoke station. Sessions are 6 weeks and weekly classes are 45 minutes long. Check the website for dates and times.

The Zimmer Museum
6505 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile LA
Phone: 323-761-8984
Online: zimmermuseum.org

photo credit: Traci Green via The Green Bean

The Green Bean 
The Green Bean in Eagle Rock is a children’s resale store and community family resource in Eagle Rock. Owner Traci Green is not just dedicated to keeping your kids in cool and affordable clothing but also with providing them real stimulation. Every Thursday Jeannette Garcia, a professional librarian, hosts a bilingual story time right inside the store. Ms. Jeannette (as the kids call her) leads babes and toddlers through an opening song, reads several stories en Español and then rounds out the class with a craft. Story time is free, but gratuity is welcomed.

The Green Bean
5060 N. Eagle Rock Blvd.
Eagle Rock
Phone: 323-739-0870
Online: thegreenbeangoods.com

photo credit: Adriana Villarreal via Kidspace Studio

Kidspace Studio
Kidspace Studio in Whittier is a hub dedicated to play and learning—from everything to dance and yoga to language of course. Kidspace offers classes in both French and Spanish. Kids 2 1/2-5 years old can join a fully bilingual parent and child school prep class. Owner, Adriana Villarreal introduces kids to Spanish emphasizing play. A weekly theme is introduced and kids are encouraged to get up and move around the room to discover Spanish vocabulary through their surroundings. Language through play is also available in French. Spanish and French classes are also offered for kids up to 12 years where conversational skills and grammar are emphasized. And if your little one is a mini music maven, Kidspace hosts Fiesta Musical, a music class where toddlers can sing and dance to traditional and original songs in Spanish.

Kidspace Studio
13710 Whittier Blvd.
Whittier
Phone: 323-283-8490
Online: kidspacestudio.com

photo credit: Vox Box Arts

Summer Language Camps

Vox Box Arts Collective
If your family is looking for something with more of an arts focus, Vox Box Arts in Glendale is just the ticket. This summer the arts collective will be offering a two-week language immersion camp entitled Caja de Arte open to K-8th grade. Campers will practice visual arts, dance, theater and even make their own marionettes, all while speaking Spanish. And if language immersion sounds intimidating, don’t worry! Camp Vox Box director, Janice Markham says while teachers and students speak Spanish exclusively, kids are encouraged to help their peers. Besides, with the all of the creativity flowing through the space, most of those inhibitions melt away.

Vox Box Arts Collective
Phone: 323-258-2557
Online: voxboxarts.org

photo credit: Savoire Faire

Savoire Faire Language Institution
Language immersion doesn’t stop at Spanish. Savoire Faire summer camps are available in Spanish, French, German and Mandarin for ages 5 & up. These one-week camps aim to fuse learning and fun. Campers will be introduced to themes and vocabulary for the day and then have the chance to use the language in the “real world” during daily field trips. Junior campers will learn through, song, dance, movement and cultural crafts while older kids will have structured lessons on top of hands on activities, games and art activities based on the cultural connections to their language. And for those always-hungry linguistic aficionados, daily cooking classes are available for all ages—they can learn a whole new side of the language while filling those bellies.

Bonus: If you have a group of friends interested in summer language camp, Savoire Faire will tailor a session to your needs.

Savoire Faire Language Institution
117 W. Torrance Blvd.
Redondo Beach
Phone: 310-379-1086
Online: sfli-ca.com

photo credit: Kallpachay Spanish Immersion

Kallpachay Spanish Immersion
Kallpachay means “to inspire” in the ancient Incan language and the organization’s summer camps inspire a sense of playfulness and ease while learning a new language. Kallpachay’s summer camps are full immersion taught by all native Spanish speakers who hold play in the highest regard. Kids open their day with a group circle, “ice-breaker” activities and chants and move onto group activities. Vocabulary and sentence structure is introduced through arts, crafting and gardening and even daily cooking classes to introduce Latin flavors—so kids learn through practice that language emerges from culture. Campers will also be introduced to variety of cultural connections to the Spanish language and participate in group activities and celebrations.

Bonus: Camps are held at several locations across the L.A. area to ease your summer commute. Also, families can choose to participate in 1-3 weeks, depending on your schedule.

Kallpachay Spanish Immersion
Phone:  323-309-8420
Online: kallpachay.com

photo credit: Lango Foothills

Lango Foothills
Based in La Canada, Lango Foothills is a great location for those who live north of downtown. Lango offers summer camps in Spanish, French Italian and German. After starting the day with an ice-breaking game of charades and songs, campers will split up and focus on the daily theme through songs, puppetry and storytelling. Kids explore the culture of their target language through art or cooking projects every day. And each week culminates with a Friday celebration where campers dance, sing or perform a play in their target language.

Lango Foothills
Phone: 818-281-6288
Online: langofoothills.com

photo credit: Alberto Vega via Twinkle Time

Concerts

Twinkle Time
Twinkle Time isn’t just a bilingual concert, it is a parade of characters otherwise known as “Twinkle and Friends.” Twinkle concerts are energetic, colorful, pop shows that will temporarily transport the kids to the dimension of “Twinkle”—who needs a sugar rush? The bilingual songs are filled with catchy tunes, lessons for the littles and a reminder that all languages should be celebrated. Check Twinkle Time’s website for upcoming concert dates and venues.

Online: twinkleandfriends.com

photo credit: Nathalia Music

Nathalia Music
After taking the family to a Nathalia Music concert you won’t mind having one of her tunes stuck in your head. A trained music therapist and clinical psychologist, Nathalia began writing bilingual songs to introduce her kids to her Colombian heritage. Now she hopes her music serves to provide fun, rhythm and a positive outlook for kids (and their parents). Nathalia music draws inspiration from Rock, Cumbia, Reggeaton and everything in between. Nathalia Music songs are bilingual and each verse is translated directly—the family that grooves together, learns together. Check Nathalia Music’s website for upcoming concert dates and venues.

Online: nathaliamusic.com

photo credit: La Libreria

Something Extra

La Librería
There are other ways to immerse your little ones in the Spanish language. La Libreria is a Spanish language bookstore specializing in books for kids ages 1-15. The brick and mortar store was the dream of Chiara Arroyo and Celene Navarrete, two mothers who wanted to share the rich literature of their childhood and their countries with their own children and beyond. For years Arroyo and Navarrette visited Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala and Spain and lugged suitcases of books home to share with their children and sell in local literary fair and schools. In February, La Librería put down roots mid-city. The two moms say their aim is to make the store a cultural hub where everyone feels welcome. Bring the family and discover worlds you never knew (or have sorely missed) through literature.

LA Librería
4732 ½ W. Washington Blvd
Los Angeles
Online: la-librería.net

Do you have a favorite place to learn Spanish with your kids?  We’d love to hear your bilingual secret spots!

—LeTania Kirkland

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