Welcome to the weekend! Feels like it has been a super long week, so I for one, am happy to welcome the weekend! This weekend it’s going to cold so most of your activities will, unfortunately, probably have to be inside! Not to worry, staring right here in Rye Brook this Friday, we have a super fun activity that everyone is sure to enjoy…the BBHS performance of Little Shop of Horrors. An amazingly talented cast is set to entertain viewers tonight! Be sure to get tickets before it’s sold out! But don’t stop there! From Santa visits to Holiday Lights, to Westchester Knick’s Basketball, to museums, HamletHub has a jam packed weekend guide to keep you and the kids busy and happy! Dig in…
Little Shop of Horrors at Blind Brook High School
Blind Brook High School proudly presents "Little Shop of Horrors" tonight, Friday, and tomorrow, Saturday November 22nd. Tickets can be purchased in the lobby of BBHS today from 11-1 and 2:30-3:30pm. Prices are $15 and $10 and are not refundable. Our talented students and staff have been working extremely hard so let's support our kids, our school and check out what's sure to be an amazing performance!
Cross County’s Tree Lighting Celebration
Cross County Shopping Center is lighting The Tree on Saturday, November 22, from 6PM to 8PM at Santa's Village. Enjoy a live holiday concert with the NYC Swing Band as the 40 foot tall Christmas Tree is lit! “Listen to your favorite holiday music, see strolling characters, participate in family activities such as face painting and more! PLUS the first 100 shoppers to visit the Cross County Booth, located between Gap and Victoria's Secret, beginning at 5PM, will receive a voucher for a FREE Christmas tree. You will be able to pick up your Christmas tree on Saturday, November 29th! Get more details at the Tree Lighting event! Don't forget to visit with Santa to share wishes and capture family photos on this evening. For details on Santa's hours, pricing, photos and more please click here”
Rye Nature Center
On Saturday, November 22nd at 9:30 am, the Rye Nature Center will be holding their Ecology Club for Families With Special Needs. “Children with special needs are invited to bring a family member with them to the Nature Center and enjoy animal programs, hikes, and other fun science and sensory adventures. For more information about this program, e-mail marygillick@ryenaturecenter.org . There is no fee for this program but pre-registration is required.”
Also on Saturday at the RNC, don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Colonial Native American Culture at the Square House. $10.00/person.
Visit ryenaturecenter.org to learn more.
Disney On Ice Presents Frozen
It’s clear that the Frozen obsession is far from gone! Why not take the kids to see Frozen on ice. There are still tickets available for this weekend’s (21st-23rd) performances at the Prudential Center in Newark (Friday @7, Sat 11, 3, & 7, Sun 1 & 5.) “Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination at Disney On Ice presents Frozen Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt. The heartwarming Academy Award®-winning tale you love is now LIVE and skating into your town. You’ll be magically whisked away into the wintry world of Arendelle, where you will be dazzled by amazing special effects and astonishing skating. Sing and dance along to inspiring songs, including “Let It Go.” Join royal sisters Anna and Elsa, the hilarious snowman Olaf, Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven and the mystical trolls as they journey to discover that true love is ultimately the most magical power of all! Hosted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, with special guest appearances by your most beloved Disney Princesses and characters from favorites like Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story, Finding Nemo and Disney’s The Lion King, this unforgettable celebration of love and friendship will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.” To learn more or purchase tickets, click here.
North Pole Exhibit
Kids can visit Santa with a little help from some Dreamworks’ characters like Shrek and Donkey. On this interactive journey, kids will enter the magical house where they will be able to get a “passport”, create a special computer generated sleigh, ride on a flight-simulated sleigh with real effects like wind and snow and arrive at the North Pole. Once at the North Pole, they will be able to sit with Santa on his comfy couch, take pictures and then peruse the gift shop full of fun toys and treats. This 15 minute hands-on experience is free, but photos with Santa are available for purchase! This is an unforgettable journey and a fun, and different take on “Pictures with Santa.” Click here for more info and to make a reservation. Now until Dec. 24th at Ridge Hill in Yonkers.
Santa’s Arrived at the Westchester
If you’d like to visit with Santa Claus the traditional way, he has already arrived at The Westchester! Stop in and have your photo taken with the St. Nick, right outside Sephora on the lower level.
Santa will be available for pictures during the following hours: Mon - Fri 10AM - 8PM, Sundays 11AM - 6PM
Santa at Stamford Town Center
Santa will also be at the Stamford Town Center until December 24 for family photos. Santa is available Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. FYI, Santa generally breaks for milk and cookies Monday through Saturday from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. For more information click here
Westchester Knicks Basketball Games
Basketball fan? How great is it that you and the family can catch a game without the hassle of getting into the city! The Westchester Knicks will be playing at the Westchester County Center this weekend, 11/21 and 11/22! This is a great opportunity to watch some awesome playing without having to leave the county! Take advantage of it!! Doors open at 6pm, game starts at 7pm .Tickets range from: $11.50- $126.50 . For more information, click here
Stepping Stones
Stepping Stones museum is an amazing place for the kids. Located about 20 minutes north of Rye Brook, in Norwalk, CT, its perfect for the whole family! This weekend, in addition to the regular museum that you can walk around on your own schedule, there are the following planned activities.
On Friday and Saturday, from 10:15-11:30, your children can make Cards for Soldiers. This is a great way to kick off the holiday season with thoughts of appreciation for others. Kids will “create a thoughtful greeting card extending a message of love to a soldier serving our country. Wrap warm wishes into words of thanks as you craft a card and reach out to service men and women who are away from loved ones. Visitors will be able to make a holiday card to show encouragement and support to our US troops.
These cards will be sent through the American Red Cross program called Holiday Mail for Heroes.”
On Saturday from 10:45 - 11:15AM come to Mutt-i-grees! Enjoy a special canine storytime and discussion followed by a visit from a shelter dog. Shelter dogs courtesy of P.A.W.S. Free with museum admission. For children ages 4 and older. Children under 4 can meet the visiting dog at 11:05.
Also on Saturday, from 12-4, don’t miss the 2nd annual Holiday Craft Fair, brought to us by the Youth Enrichment at Stepping Stones (YES2). You will be able to buy hand-made crafts and merchandise created by the youth of the YES2 program. This is a great opportunity to support young entrepeneurs while starting your holiday shopping. Cash only.
From 2-3pm on Saturday, children can participate in “Sketching Artifacts. Create a mini-masterpiece inspired by indigenous souvenirs from Around the World.
Drop-in anytime. Free with museum admission.”
And finally on Sunday, from 1:30-2:30, the ART of Fairy Tales comes to Stepping Stones. This week’s story is The Boy & the Wolves or the Broken Promise, a Native American Tale. “Listen to a classic fairy tale and re-create your favorite scene through a special art project.
Limited to 12 participants on a first come, first served basis. Free with museum admission, but you must pick up tickets at the Welcome Desk. For children ages 5 and older.”
For more info on any of the above programs, click here!
Crafts at Michaels
Every Saturday, Michael’s offers a Craft for the kids from 10-12. Drop your kids in the studio and shop the aisles of Michaels! This weekend, “Make it a Merry Crafts-mas at Michaels! Pop in on Saturday, November 22, from 10am to noon, for our DIY Felt Stocking Event ... and take home a completed project. Just $2 per 30-minute session - including supplies.” For more information, click here
Crafts at Lakeshore
There will also be crafting going on at Lakeshore! From 11-3pm this Saturday, the kids will be able to create a super fun and super cool FREE craft! This week's activity is to create a " Giving Thanks Centerpiece.” Click learn more.
NY Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Train Show
This is always a huge hit with kids and adults alike. Expect a crowd for this Holiday Train Show. Don’t miss this 23 year old “must-see New York tradition where enchanting model trains zip past popular landmarks under the twinkling glow of the magical Haupt Conservatory! Step into a city in miniature featuring more than 150 iconic buildings, all re-created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials. Marvel at G-scale trains humming along among familiar sights such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Rockefeller Center—surprising at every turn—on a quarter-mile of track as they enliven this cherished holiday experience. The Artist's Studio showcases how visionary artist Paul Busse and his team craft these amazing small wonders. Real trains, real landmarks, real fun—only at NYBG! For tickets or more information, click here or here to learn more.
Rye Library Preschool Storytime
On Saturday November 22nd, from 11-12, children ages 3 1/2 & up, and their caregivers can listen to age-appropriate stories and participate in fun games, rhymes and other activities to develop pre-literacy skills and an interest in books and reading. Felt boards and other props are sometimes used to enhance stories and model future classroom experience. A fun craft project is designed around the Story Time's theme or a seasonal topic. Parents and caregivers are asked to assist younger children using scissors, glue and other art materials. 60 minutes. Call 914-231-3162 or click here to learn more.
Bruce Museums Family Gallery Tour
On Sunday November 23rd from 11:30-12:30 don’t miss this great opportunity for children ages 6-10 and families to enjoy a tour of the Bruce Museum. A Museum educator will lead an interactive, discussion-based tour of the Museum’s current exhibitions. Free with admission. No reservations needed. Click here to learn more.
Maritime Aquarium
At the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT, this fun exhibit invites you to do something you've tried to NOT do all your life: touch jellyfish! Gently touch the tops of live moon jellies as they pulse in our new exhibit!
How is this possible without being stung? The stinging cells of moon jellyfish hang on tentacles below their bodies. Also, their sting is known to be relatively benign for most people. Click here to learn more:
Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary
On Saturday, November 22nd at 1pm, come to Sound Stories-Lore and History of Long Island Sound. “From the people of the “place of the shells” to pirates, patriots, and fisherman, the history of Long Island Sound offers a treasure of lively tales that will entertain the whole family. Presented by Jonathan Kruk, Master Storyteller ("The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"). Sponsored by FRWS.” Click here to learn more.
Discovery Weekend at Barnes & Noble
This weekend there is a bunch of fun activities going on at many Barnes & Noble locations but call ahead to ensure your closest one is offering them. The following are available at the Yonker’s location, Central Plaza, 2614 Central Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10710, 914-771-6400
-Learn to Draw Like Mo Willems!-Saturday @ 11am, “Booksellers will help children learn how to draw the beloved Pigeon from Don't let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! with instructions created by the award-winning author and illustrator. Recommended for ages 4 and up.”
-Puppet Making and Holiday Sing-Along- Saturday @ 1pm, “Kids are invited to make a puppet and sing holiday songs with our booksellers and their newfound puppet friends. Please arrive early, space and supplies are limited. Recommended for children ages 4 and up.”
-Snowmen at Night Storytime- On Sunday @ 1pm, “Ever built a snowman and discovered the next day that his grin has gotten a little crooked, or his tree-branch arms have moved? Discover and experience the secret life of snowmen at night! Recommended for children ages 4 and up.”
Greenburgh Nature Center
The Greenburgh Nature Center (GNC) always has so much fun in store for us every weekend! And this weekend is no exception!
On Saturday at 2pm, “Migrate, Hibernate or Adapt- The weather is getting colder and the days are becoming shorter. People adapt to warm houses and grocery store food, but what about the animals? Grab your coat and join us to meet some amazing animals and learn about their cold weather survival skills. Members $5, Nonmembers $8”
And on Sunday at 2pm, “Whirling Twirling, and Falling Down- When the leaves turn red, orange, brown, and gold we all become children, no matter how old! Join us for some raking, piling, and leaf pile jumping. Learn just what makes leaves turn colors in the fall, and what you can do with your leaves at home to make your yard blossom next spring. Each child makes special leaf art to take home and treasure. Members $5, Non-members $8”
For more information on either program, click here.
Stamford Nature Center
This weekend why not head up the Merritt Parkway to the amazing Stamford Nature Center. Aside for its usual attractions including animals, trails and a fun playground, don’t miss these special events:
From Saturday, November 22nd- January 25th, don’t miss this exhibit that Lego fans will flip out for… “A Billion Bricks 2: Lego Trains, Planes and Rocket Ships! Bill Probert & I LUG (LEGO® Users Group) NY return to the Museum Galleries at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center for a 6th season with its grand opening on Saturday, November 22. Trains, planes, and rocket ships will speed through the Stamford Museum galleries throughout the holiday season. Brick monorails, helicopters, subways, ships, and shuttles will transport your imagination at full speed across a three-dimensional landscape built entirely out of LEGO® bricks.. Check out the custom-designed LEGO® "vehicles," displayed as sculpture, that move through an imaginary world where any kind of travel is possible.”
And on Sunday, November 23rd, from 12-4, the SNC popular Sunday drop-in program, Sunday Explorers, returns for November! There will be hikes, field studies, live animal visits, garden experiences and crafts! For specific times and schedules, click here.
Also on Sundays from 12-4 in November, the SNC will have their “Wheels in the Wood Fall Activity Trail.” This is a self-guided activity trail and scavenger hunt.
To learn more about either of the above programs, visit their website www.Stamfordmuseum.org
Farmer’s Market in Rye
Every Sunday from 8:30-2pm, until December 21st, don’t miss this opportunity to buy fresh, local produce, meats, seafood, pickles, olive oils, baked goods, and dairy at the Rye's Down to Earth Farmer’s Market. This is located in the rear parking lot behind the Purchase Street businesses like Chase and Encore.
Hudson River Museum
The Hudson River Museum, in Yonkers, boasts an amazing Planetarium, six galleries, and a mansion! This weekend it also has a few extra fun activities to evoke the creativity in your kids!
On Saturday and Sunday from 1-4, check out the “Fall Peacock Art Projects.” Kids will be able to make a peacock using paint and colored pencils. This is appropriate for ages 7 and up but can be adapted for younger children.
On Saturday from 1-4, the science enthusiast will love ”Fall Science Projects- Explore the shape, materials, gravity, and birth, of the Solar System’s smaller bodies.”
And finally, this weekend the Hudson River Museum will also have a performance that the whole family can enjoy, “Little Pea.” On Sunday, November 23rd at 1 and 3pm, “It’s all about the adventures of Little Pea, a blue jay lost in the Museum’s galleries that are filled with pictures of beautiful peacocks. Can Bluebird’s friends, Robin and Peacock, help him find his way home? An original production performed by Sarah Lawrence College Theatre Outreach students. Book by Allen Lang. Lyrics and Music by Shirley Kaplan. Directed by Shirley Kaplan. Costumes by Teaching Artist in Residence Dillon Lundeen Goldschlag.” This 25 minute performance is appropriate for individuals ages 6 and up . Click here for more info.
Emelin Theatre Presents “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse”
On Sunday, Nov 23 @ 11am & 1:30pm why not head to the Emelin Theatre in Mamaroneck for an adorable show the whole family is sure to love! “Lilly, who is used to being the brightest and loudest mouse around, will also have to get used to sharing the spotlight with her new baby brother in this charming adaptation of Kevin Henkes's award-winning children's book.
Gripped with anger after losing her purse, Lilly draws a mean portrait of Mr. Slinger and hides it in his book bag. But when she gets her purse back and opens it outside of school, she finds a surprising note: "Today was a difficult day. Tomorrow will be better." Suddenly wracked with guilt, Lilly sets out to make up with her teacher. But villainous bicycle-riding bullies, a spotlight-stealing baby brother and the dreaded "uncooperative chair" will test our heroine's resolve. Ages 4+”
Online sales for the 1:30 have already sold out! Click here to buy for the 11am showing. Tickets are $15. See more here.
South Pacific
At the Westchester Broadway Theatre, now through November 30th, don’t miss your chance to see Rogers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific.”
“Set on an island paradise during World War II, it tells two parallel love stories against the dangers of prejudice and war. The classic but timely musical showcases the importance of valuing diversity. The original 1949 play won 10 Tony Awards. The score contains many of the most recognizable songs in Broadway history, including “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out-a My Hair,” “I’m In Love With a Wonderful Guy” and “There Is Nothing Like a Dame.”
For tickets and showtime information, click here.
LEGO® Movie Weekend at Legoland Discovery Center
It’s a good weekend to be a Lego fan! November 22nd and 23rd at the Legoland Discovery Center in Ridge Hill “join us for a whahahahawesome event and…
- Build Emmets’ Car in the Master Builder Academy
- Meet Emmet and Lucy
- And more! “
Click here to learn more!
Stone Barn’s Fall Family Farm Tour
On November 22nd 11-11:45 and 1-1:45 and 23rd 11-11:45 join Stone Barns on this family-friendly tour for ages 4 and up. You’ll have a chance to explore the farm and some of their favorite seasonal highlights. On the walk, you’ll get to take a closer look at the animals that they’re raising and the vegetables that they’re growing! Please note that all youth must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. Click here to learn more!
While you’re at Stone Barns, check out their yummy farmer’s market on Sunday from 10-4pm.
Westmoreland Sanctuary
There are two fun events this weekend at the Westmoreland Sanctuary.
On November 22 at 10am, why not embark on a “Wildlife Management Area Hike - A unique opportunity to explore this off limits area for the public. Join the Director of Conservation and Wildlife Management as we see what makes this are so noteworthy. Ages 6 and up. Meet at the Nature Center and carpool to the area. $5 per person for non-members and free for members.”
And on Sunday, November 23rd at 1pm, who doesn’t love a good old fashioned “Family Scavenger Hunt- Use your compass and treasure map to search the Westmoreland Woods for hidden stations. This activity is loads of fun for the whole family. Mom and Dad can challenge themselves with using the compass and the kids get the excitement of searching for hidden gems. A quick and easy map and compass lesson will be provided at the beginning. Ages 6 and older recommended. $5 per person for non-members and free for members.”
Click here to learn more about either program and/or Westmoreland
Frozen Ice Palace
Feel like heading to NJ? Your kids might just drag you there if they catch wind of this activity at the Short Hills Mall!
“In celebration of the November 18 release of the Disney Frozen Sing-Along DVD, the Frozen experience features elements from the number one animated film of all time, Disney Frozen. This much-loved, interactive holiday display features the art of Anna, Elsa and their friends Olaf, Kristoff and Sven, plus a 30 foot Ice Palace with falling snow, a light show and other activities for the whole family. Interactive globes will showcase scenes such as Anna & Elsa ice skating with Olaf, plus Anna, Kristoff & Sven on their quest to find Elsa on the North Mountain. Adults and children alike will enjoy leaving their hand print in ice at The Icy Hand Print experience, seeing how they compare in size to Sven and Olaf and having their photo taken with a plush Olaf at the Ice Throne. End your magical journey at the Ice Palace with a visit to Santa and a special Disney Frozen Look-and-Find book! Photo packages range from $22 - $49 and each include a $10 or $20 promotional certificate from Shutterfly.”
Click here for more info.
Big Apple Circus
If you’re in the mood to head to the city, this is a favorite activity with kids and adults alike! The circus will be in town until Jan 11th at the Lincoln Center. For tickets or more info, click here!
Ice Skating
Always a fun activity for the entire family, Playland Skating rink is open again (yay), following a devastating blow thanks to Hurricane Sandy! They have open skating on Saturday from 1:30-3:30 and Sunday 1:30-3:45. Visit their website for more info!
Skiing
If winter sports are your thing, you’ll be happy to know that the mountains are opening up this weekend for skiing. We all know there’s great skiing in the northeast but if you don’t feel like heading up to Vermont, Massachusetts and other spots North there are some slopes closer to us! Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain in NY both open this weekend.
Movies
With colder weather, the search for the perfect indoor activity begins. An easy option for everyone, go to the movies! Last weekend a new movie from Disney arrived on the big screen that the kids are loving: Big Hero 6! The Book of Life I saw recently and LOVED! The topic may be a little over some young ones’ heads but the visual effects are not to be missed! Especially in 3d! And Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day was also a cute, funny movie, that’s been out for a while so this may be one of your last chances to catch it on the big screen (in Stamford, CT). Check out showtimes here!
Remember, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to ensure a scheduled activity is still running. Email me at ryebrook@hamlethub.com and let me know if we missed any super fun, family friendly events and/or if you would like to advertise with us!
Photo Credit: Kelly Schwark