Children's Focus
The Site for Children's Events
SummerTime Fun 2016
Many summer events move outdoor and, fortunately most are free. So pack a picnic and enjoy the cultural activities of New York and some fresh air. There is also plenty of indoor fun when the weather is too hot or rainy.
Movies for Families:
Riverflicks - enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars on Manhattan’s west side waterfront! Pier 46 at Charles Street in Greenwich Vilage. Arrive early, find a spot, bring a picnic! Bring your own chairs and blankets. starts around 8:30 pm. Historical heroes and questionable neighbors come together on the waterfront this summer in Hudson River Park! See the Stars, under the stars - watch all of your favorite blockbusters from last year on the big screen, again! This time around, they’re all FREE. Hudson RiverFlicks has all of last year’s favorite big screen hits! Join at Hudson River Park’s Pier 63 as they screen new and classic films for the whole family to enjoy! Take the C or E Train to 23rd St. The M23 or M14 Bus.
Aug 12 Goosebumps
Aug 19 The Princess Bride
-----------------------------------------------------------
The KIDflix Film Fest of Bed-Stuy! is a free annual film festival for kids and their families. The festival has taken place in Bedford-Stuyvesant since 2000, and is now preparing for its 16th season. It is held every Friday night in August in Fulton Park. Each year, the festival ends with an interactive “Sing & Dance-Along” to The Wiz that features puppets, a costume contest, and a tribute to Michael Jackson and Lena Horne. This year enjoy the following films:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bryant Park Summer Film Festival –Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets. The selection of classic films for this series will probably only appeal to older children This festival gets seriously crowded! Arrive when the lawn opens at 5pm if you want to snag a decent spot. Best bets for families this year:
Aug 22 Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
---------------------------------------------------------
Coney Island Flicks on the Beach – West 10th Street and the Boardwalk. End your fun-filled day at Coney Island with a free flick shown on a jumbo 40-foot screen by the ocean. Best bets for families:
July 25 Inside Out
Aug 1 Avengers Age of Ultron
Aug 8 Rooftop Shorts
----------------------------------------------------------
Movies on the Waterfront Astoria - Astoria Park Great Lawn on Shore Boulevard between Hell Gate Bridge and the Astoria Park Pool
Queens movie studio Kaufman Astoria sponsors this annual alfresco film series. All of this year's flicks are family-friendly:
Jul 25 Big Hero 6
Aug 1 Mary Poppins
Aug 8 Minions
Aug 15 Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Aug 22 Jaws
-----------------------------------------------------------
Movie Night in the Park at Randall's Island - Right off the 103rd Street pedestrian bridge near Field 84
The activity-packed Randall's Island hosts a once-a-month movie series with mostly family-friendly titles:
Jul 31 The Goonies
Aug 14 The Good Dinosaur
Aug 28 Inside Out
-------------------------------------------------------------
Parks Department:
Madison Square Park located between Madison Avenue and 23rd St – 26th St. has fun activities for the children this summer. The award-winning playground is open year-round from 7am to dusk.
THE ART YARD - Learn a new skill and spark your creativity at The Art Yard, the new Mad. Sq. Kids workshop series designed for kids aged 1-12. The Park will host some of the best independent visual and performing artists on Saturday mornings from 9am-12pm. The Art Yard workshops are held from June 20 — August 22. Adult supervision is required and promptness is encouraged. http://www.madisonsquarepark.org/kids/the-art-yar
Mad. Sq. Kids Concert Series is a free interactive concert on the Farragut Lawn every Thursday morning from May 28-July 30 at 10:30am (lawn opens at 10am). Children can learn simple skills and the appreciation of music from an eclectic mix of today’s top children’s performing artists. Concerts are rain or shine. Rain location for concerts is held on the southern gravel. Adult supervision is required.
The Mad. Sq. Park Teaching Artist can be found in the Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground each Monday and Wednesday from June 1 — September 30 with free hands-on creative arts activities at 10am and 2pm. Children are encouraged to participate in free flowing art-based activities. Adult supervision is required. Art in the Park is every Monday and Wednesday except on the last Monday of each month.
EXPLORE! program is held at the Exploration Station on Thursday mornings with the Mad. Sq. Kids Teaching Artist and participate in the Mad. Sq. Kids EXPLORE! Program. This program consists of self-guided activities organized by six themes: Art in the Park, Science and Nature, Playground Adventure, Stepping Through Time, Park Patrol, and Games. You can find the Exploration Station on Farragut Lawn or in Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground.
Reading Rangers series will introduce children of all ages to literature through storytelling presented by one of their dedicated partners each Tuesday and Friday from June 2 — September 29 at 10am in or around the Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blues BBQ Festival -on Pier 26 - West and North Moore Streets, Manhattan, NY 10013 - Back for its 16th season, this Southern-style festival will bring blues musicians like the Otis Taylor Band, Jarekus Singleton and Vaneese Thomas to the TriBeCa waterfront. Enjoy free tunes while munching on juicy smoked fare provided by some of the City’s top barbecue restaurants. The event is scheduled to take place rain or shine on August 22, 2015. For more information, visit hudsonriverpark.org. For more information call 212-627-2020
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The City Parks Foundation presents these free programs that feature music, dance and family activities as part of SummerStage Kids. Families are invited to take part in the daytime entertainment and then stick around for evening dance and concert performances at 10:30AM. For more information, visit cityparksfoundation.org.
Jul 12 Mister G- Mister G - The 2015 Latin GRAMMY Award winner for Best Children’s Album, Mister G is one of the leading figures in the family music world. Called a “kid-friendly bilingual rock star” by The Washington Post and “irresistible” by People magazine, Mister G has been named one of the “Best Live Acts for Kids and Families.” His seven award-winning multicultural albums, including the GRAMMY-winning CD, Los Animales, span genres from funk to folk, reggae to rock, bluegrass to bossa nova. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Columbus Park 55 Mulberry St, New York. Free
Jul 12 Acrobuffos and Rob & Miss Jane - Acrobuffos Put up your dukes! Inspired by classic boxing movies, this punch-drunk, knock-out slapstick comedy team brings their hilarious boxing ring to you. Oh, and they get stuck in giant balloons. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rufus King Park 89th Ave & 152nd St., Queens, NY. Free
Jul 12 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Maria Hernandez Park Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY. Free
Jul 13 Chinese Acrobat Li Liu - Chinese Acrobat Li Liu Li Liu was born in the city of Shenyang, located in Liaoning Province in The Northeast of China. When she was six years old she began learning acrobatics with her father. See her perform some amazing acrobatics. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Pelham Bay Park Bronx County Line and Middletown Rd, Bronx, NY 10464. Free
Jul 131 Kids Day Out - features singer, actor, musician and arts educator Todd Rolle with guitarist Steve Bloom. Together, they perform hand clappin, foot stompin sounds that will keep your whole crew in the groove. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Astoria Heights Playground 30 Rd. bet. 45 St. and 46 St. Queens, NY 11103. Free
Jul 13 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am Seward Park Canal St, Essex St, Jefferson St and E Broadway Manhattan, NY Free
Jul 14 Gizmo Guys - Gizmo Guys Simply put, the Gizmo Guys are a comedy & juggling act. But they are much more. Their performance includes original routines, quick-witted verbal repartee and world class juggling skills in a very light-hearted approach to the art. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Tremont Park E 175 St to E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10457. Free
Jul 14 Chinese Acrobat Li Liu - Chinese Acrobat Li Liu Li Liu was born in the city of Shenyang, located in Liaoning Province in The Northeast of China. When she was six years old she began learning acrobatics with her father. See her perform some amazing acrobatics. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Van Cortlandt Park, Classic Playground New York. Free
Jul 14 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Courtney Callender Playground 5 Ave., W. 130 St. To .W 131 St., Manhattan, NY 10037. Free
Jul 15 Rashida Bumbray - Rashida Bumbray Rashida Bumbray’s choreography draws from traditional African American vernacular and folk forms including ring shouts, hoofing, and blues improvisation in order to interrogate society and initiate healing. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Brower Park St. Mark's Ave., Park Pl. bet. Brooklyn Ave. and Kingston Ave. Brooklyn, NY. Free
Jul 15 Gizmo Guys - Gizmo Guys Simply put, the Gizmo Guys are a comedy & juggling act. But they are much more. Their performance includes original routines, quick-witted verbal repartee and world class juggling skills in a very light-hearted approach to the art. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Crotona Park Crotona Park North to South, Fulton Av to Southern Blvd and Crotona Park East, Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 17 Legacy Women / Recess Monkey / Music with a Message / Double Dutch Dreamz - The Legacy Women will bring to the stage the traditional drum songs of Puerto Rican Bomba and Dominican Palos, with a twist…. From 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at St. Mary’s Park St Mary's St bet. St Ann's Av and Jackson Ave, Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 18 Marc Cary: The Harlem Jam Sessions - Marc Carey: Harlem Jam Sessions Jazz pianist, keyboardist, producer and composer Marc Cary holds tight to his roots in Washington, D.C.’s go-go music scene, but they represent only one element among the myriad. Cary’s interests run from Indian classical to Malian music to hip-hop. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at J. Hood Wright Park W. 173 St. bet. Haven Ave. and Ft. Washington Ave. Manhattan, NY. Free
Jul 18 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Haffen Park - Hammersley Ave. to Burke Ave. bet. Ely Ave. and Gunther Ave., Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 18 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rochdale Park New York Blvd. and 134th Ave. Queens, NY. Free
Jul 19 Central Park Zoo Wildlife Theater - travels from the Central Park Zoo to entertain and educate children about wild things and wild places. In the Cool Rainforest Connections program Wildlife Theater will take the audience on an adventure with their superhero, Captain Cocoa, who is convinced he can save the rainforest. In fact, he learns, it might be the average person who can save the day. Students learn about the rainforest habitat and simple conservation actions. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Maria Hernandez Park Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237. Free
Jul 19 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rufus King Park 89th Ave & 152nd St. Queens, NY, Free
Jul 19 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Columbus Park 55 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013. Free
Jul 20 Marc Cary: The Harlem Jam Sessions - Marc Carey: Harlem Jam Sessions Jazz pianist, keyboardist, producer and composer Marc Cary holds tight to his roots in Washington, D.C.’s go-go music scene, but they represent only one element among the myriad. Cary’s interests run from Indian classical to Malian music to hip-hop. From July 20 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Pelham Bay Park Bronx County Line and Middletown Rd Bronx, NY 10464. Free
Jul 20 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Seward Park Canal St, Essex St, Jefferson St and E Broadway, Manhattan, NY. Free
Jul 20 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am. At Astoria Heights Playground 30 Rd. bet. 45 St. and 46 St., Queens, NY 11103.
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Great Hill at Central Park - 106th Street and Central Park West (bet. W. 50th and W. 51st Sts.) Manhattan, NY. Call 212-360-8235.| Central Park is a beautiful and bustling place in the summer, and any reason to bring the entire family there is a welcome one. This year, the park’s annual Family Performance Festival continues its tradition with world-expanding arts and cultural offerings, including storytelling, puppet shows, music from around the world and eco-educational lessons. Be certain to RSVP to claim a spot in advance, as they’re sure to fill quickly. For more information, visit centralparknyc.org.
July 26 Clementine the Hipster explores Central Park Puppetry by Puppetsburg
August 2 Nature in the City - Musical Performance by Billy B
August 9 Butterfly Boogie - Puppetry by Central Park Zoo Wildlife Theater
August 16 Nature Songs and Stories Musical Performance and walk led by George Steele
August 23 The Case of the Missing Chipmunk Puppetry by WonderSpark Puppets
August 30 Hook, Line, and Sinker Musical Puppetry by Arm of the SeaTheater
Sept 6 Park Discovery! Hands on activities led by Conservancy Environmental Educators
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City Parks Foundation Family Day
FAMILY DAY featuring Invincible: The Michael Jackson Tribute, Marika Hughes & Bottom Heavy East River Park, MN Amphitheater; Cherry St. between Jackson St. and FDR Dr. at East River Park Amphitheater - Cherry St. betwn Jackson and FDR, Manhattan, NY on Sunday, August 9 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Free
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More Freebees!
Free New York City Summer Food - All children in New York City are eligible for free breakfast and lunch from June 27th to September 4th. The Summer Meals Program is available at hundreds of public schools, community pool centers, New York City Housing Authority complexes, Libraries, and other locations around the city. Some locations are even open on the weekends. Visit their site for locations and time. They have an app that you can download for more information.
They also have 4 mobile food truck locations offering meals seven days a week throughout the summer 10am to 3pm. They are stationed at locations frequented by children when school is out. These sites are Orchard Beach (Monday to Friday) & Roberto Clemente Park (Saturday & Sunday) in the Bronx, Sara D. Roosevelt Park (Rivington Park) in Manhattan, Flushing Meadow-Corona Park Zoo parking lot at 111th street, and Corona Plaza at Roosevelt Avenue & 103rd street) in Queens. Please use their search feature for the days and types of service for each truck. Use their search feature, download their app or text "NYCMeals" to 877-877* to find a location near you .
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Summer Reading 2016 at New York City Libraries – Parents and children can join the Summer Reading Program, Every Hero Has A Story at your local library or online, and find out why summer reading is so important, and get tips on some great books to read. There are quizzes and you can earn badges, and enjoy special events and surprises for children. Also check the library for special events , storytelling, music and movies.
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Barnes & Noble Bookstore has a summer reading program where children can earn a book by reading 8 books and recording it in a journal provided by the store. Bring your reading journal to a local B&N store and chose a book from their selection on the Reading Journal list at t he store. For more information and locations visit their site
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Apple Stores
offer Apple Camp, a place where kids aged 8 to 12 bring
their imaginations to life. They’ll learn to make movies
by storyboarding ideas, shooting video and creating an
original soundtrack. Starting this summer, campers can
create interactive books complete with their own
illustrations and sound effects. Apple Camp will be back
in summer 2016. Sign up to be notified when registration
is open
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Many summer events move outdoor and, fortunately most are free. So pack a picnic and enjoy the cultural activities of New York and some fresh air. There is also plenty of indoor fun when the weather is too hot or rainy.
Movies for Families:
Riverflicks - enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars on Manhattan’s west side waterfront! Pier 46 at Charles Street in Greenwich Vilage. Arrive early, find a spot, bring a picnic! Bring your own chairs and blankets. starts around 8:30 pm. Historical heroes and questionable neighbors come together on the waterfront this summer in Hudson River Park! See the Stars, under the stars - watch all of your favorite blockbusters from last year on the big screen, again! This time around, they’re all FREE. Hudson RiverFlicks has all of last year’s favorite big screen hits! Join at Hudson River Park’s Pier 63 as they screen new and classic films for the whole family to enjoy! Take the C or E Train to 23rd St. The M23 or M14 Bus.
Aug 12 Goosebumps
Aug 19 The Princess Bride
-----------------------------------------------------------
The KIDflix Film Fest of Bed-Stuy! is a free annual film festival for kids and their families. The festival has taken place in Bedford-Stuyvesant since 2000, and is now preparing for its 16th season. It is held every Friday night in August in Fulton Park. Each year, the festival ends with an interactive “Sing & Dance-Along” to The Wiz that features puppets, a costume contest, and a tribute to Michael Jackson and Lena Horne. This year enjoy the following films:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bryant Park Summer Film Festival –Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets. The selection of classic films for this series will probably only appeal to older children This festival gets seriously crowded! Arrive when the lawn opens at 5pm if you want to snag a decent spot. Best bets for families this year:
Aug 22 Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
---------------------------------------------------------
Coney Island Flicks on the Beach – West 10th Street and the Boardwalk. End your fun-filled day at Coney Island with a free flick shown on a jumbo 40-foot screen by the ocean. Best bets for families:
July 25 Inside Out
Aug 1 Avengers Age of Ultron
Aug 8 Rooftop Shorts
----------------------------------------------------------
Movies on the Waterfront Astoria - Astoria Park Great Lawn on Shore Boulevard between Hell Gate Bridge and the Astoria Park Pool
Queens movie studio Kaufman Astoria sponsors this annual alfresco film series. All of this year's flicks are family-friendly:
Jul 25 Big Hero 6
Aug 1 Mary Poppins
Aug 8 Minions
Aug 15 Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Aug 22 Jaws
-----------------------------------------------------------
Movie Night in the Park at Randall's Island - Right off the 103rd Street pedestrian bridge near Field 84
The activity-packed Randall's Island hosts a once-a-month movie series with mostly family-friendly titles:
Jul 31 The Goonies
Aug 14 The Good Dinosaur
Aug 28 Inside Out
-------------------------------------------------------------
Parks Department:
Madison Square Park located between Madison Avenue and 23rd St – 26th St. has fun activities for the children this summer. The award-winning playground is open year-round from 7am to dusk.
THE ART YARD - Learn a new skill and spark your creativity at The Art Yard, the new Mad. Sq. Kids workshop series designed for kids aged 1-12. The Park will host some of the best independent visual and performing artists on Saturday mornings from 9am-12pm. The Art Yard workshops are held from June 20 — August 22. Adult supervision is required and promptness is encouraged. http://www.madisonsquarepark.org/kids/the-art-yar
Mad. Sq. Kids Concert Series is a free interactive concert on the Farragut Lawn every Thursday morning from May 28-July 30 at 10:30am (lawn opens at 10am). Children can learn simple skills and the appreciation of music from an eclectic mix of today’s top children’s performing artists. Concerts are rain or shine. Rain location for concerts is held on the southern gravel. Adult supervision is required.
The Mad. Sq. Park Teaching Artist can be found in the Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground each Monday and Wednesday from June 1 — September 30 with free hands-on creative arts activities at 10am and 2pm. Children are encouraged to participate in free flowing art-based activities. Adult supervision is required. Art in the Park is every Monday and Wednesday except on the last Monday of each month.
EXPLORE! program is held at the Exploration Station on Thursday mornings with the Mad. Sq. Kids Teaching Artist and participate in the Mad. Sq. Kids EXPLORE! Program. This program consists of self-guided activities organized by six themes: Art in the Park, Science and Nature, Playground Adventure, Stepping Through Time, Park Patrol, and Games. You can find the Exploration Station on Farragut Lawn or in Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground.
Reading Rangers series will introduce children of all ages to literature through storytelling presented by one of their dedicated partners each Tuesday and Friday from June 2 — September 29 at 10am in or around the Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blues BBQ Festival -on Pier 26 - West and North Moore Streets, Manhattan, NY 10013 - Back for its 16th season, this Southern-style festival will bring blues musicians like the Otis Taylor Band, Jarekus Singleton and Vaneese Thomas to the TriBeCa waterfront. Enjoy free tunes while munching on juicy smoked fare provided by some of the City’s top barbecue restaurants. The event is scheduled to take place rain or shine on August 22, 2015. For more information, visit hudsonriverpark.org. For more information call 212-627-2020
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The City Parks Foundation presents these free programs that feature music, dance and family activities as part of SummerStage Kids. Families are invited to take part in the daytime entertainment and then stick around for evening dance and concert performances at 10:30AM. For more information, visit cityparksfoundation.org.
Jul 12 Mister G- Mister G - The 2015 Latin GRAMMY Award winner for Best Children’s Album, Mister G is one of the leading figures in the family music world. Called a “kid-friendly bilingual rock star” by The Washington Post and “irresistible” by People magazine, Mister G has been named one of the “Best Live Acts for Kids and Families.” His seven award-winning multicultural albums, including the GRAMMY-winning CD, Los Animales, span genres from funk to folk, reggae to rock, bluegrass to bossa nova. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Columbus Park 55 Mulberry St, New York. Free
Jul 12 Acrobuffos and Rob & Miss Jane - Acrobuffos Put up your dukes! Inspired by classic boxing movies, this punch-drunk, knock-out slapstick comedy team brings their hilarious boxing ring to you. Oh, and they get stuck in giant balloons. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rufus King Park 89th Ave & 152nd St., Queens, NY. Free
Jul 12 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Maria Hernandez Park Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY. Free
Jul 13 Chinese Acrobat Li Liu - Chinese Acrobat Li Liu Li Liu was born in the city of Shenyang, located in Liaoning Province in The Northeast of China. When she was six years old she began learning acrobatics with her father. See her perform some amazing acrobatics. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Pelham Bay Park Bronx County Line and Middletown Rd, Bronx, NY 10464. Free
Jul 131 Kids Day Out - features singer, actor, musician and arts educator Todd Rolle with guitarist Steve Bloom. Together, they perform hand clappin, foot stompin sounds that will keep your whole crew in the groove. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Astoria Heights Playground 30 Rd. bet. 45 St. and 46 St. Queens, NY 11103. Free
Jul 13 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am Seward Park Canal St, Essex St, Jefferson St and E Broadway Manhattan, NY Free
Jul 14 Gizmo Guys - Gizmo Guys Simply put, the Gizmo Guys are a comedy & juggling act. But they are much more. Their performance includes original routines, quick-witted verbal repartee and world class juggling skills in a very light-hearted approach to the art. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Tremont Park E 175 St to E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10457. Free
Jul 14 Chinese Acrobat Li Liu - Chinese Acrobat Li Liu Li Liu was born in the city of Shenyang, located in Liaoning Province in The Northeast of China. When she was six years old she began learning acrobatics with her father. See her perform some amazing acrobatics. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Van Cortlandt Park, Classic Playground New York. Free
Jul 14 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Courtney Callender Playground 5 Ave., W. 130 St. To .W 131 St., Manhattan, NY 10037. Free
Jul 15 Rashida Bumbray - Rashida Bumbray Rashida Bumbray’s choreography draws from traditional African American vernacular and folk forms including ring shouts, hoofing, and blues improvisation in order to interrogate society and initiate healing. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Brower Park St. Mark's Ave., Park Pl. bet. Brooklyn Ave. and Kingston Ave. Brooklyn, NY. Free
Jul 15 Gizmo Guys - Gizmo Guys Simply put, the Gizmo Guys are a comedy & juggling act. But they are much more. Their performance includes original routines, quick-witted verbal repartee and world class juggling skills in a very light-hearted approach to the art. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Crotona Park Crotona Park North to South, Fulton Av to Southern Blvd and Crotona Park East, Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 17 Legacy Women / Recess Monkey / Music with a Message / Double Dutch Dreamz - The Legacy Women will bring to the stage the traditional drum songs of Puerto Rican Bomba and Dominican Palos, with a twist…. From 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at St. Mary’s Park St Mary's St bet. St Ann's Av and Jackson Ave, Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 18 Marc Cary: The Harlem Jam Sessions - Marc Carey: Harlem Jam Sessions Jazz pianist, keyboardist, producer and composer Marc Cary holds tight to his roots in Washington, D.C.’s go-go music scene, but they represent only one element among the myriad. Cary’s interests run from Indian classical to Malian music to hip-hop. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at J. Hood Wright Park W. 173 St. bet. Haven Ave. and Ft. Washington Ave. Manhattan, NY. Free
Jul 18 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Haffen Park - Hammersley Ave. to Burke Ave. bet. Ely Ave. and Gunther Ave., Bronx, NY. Free
Jul 18 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rochdale Park New York Blvd. and 134th Ave. Queens, NY. Free
Jul 19 Central Park Zoo Wildlife Theater - travels from the Central Park Zoo to entertain and educate children about wild things and wild places. In the Cool Rainforest Connections program Wildlife Theater will take the audience on an adventure with their superhero, Captain Cocoa, who is convinced he can save the rainforest. In fact, he learns, it might be the average person who can save the day. Students learn about the rainforest habitat and simple conservation actions. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Maria Hernandez Park Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237. Free
Jul 19 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Rufus King Park 89th Ave & 152nd St. Queens, NY, Free
Jul 19 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Columbus Park 55 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013. Free
Jul 20 Marc Cary: The Harlem Jam Sessions - Marc Carey: Harlem Jam Sessions Jazz pianist, keyboardist, producer and composer Marc Cary holds tight to his roots in Washington, D.C.’s go-go music scene, but they represent only one element among the myriad. Cary’s interests run from Indian classical to Malian music to hip-hop. From July 20 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Pelham Bay Park Bronx County Line and Middletown Rd Bronx, NY 10464. Free
Jul 20 Music with a Message - Music With a Message Renaissance Youth Center is proud to present the dynamic and talented, Bronx-based Music With A Message (MWAM) Band! MWAM captivates audiences of all ages delivering powerful messages through soulful renditions of classic songs and innovative original compositions that emphasize issues such as gun violence, asthma (“Asthma Can’t Win”), homelessness (“We Need You”), and more lighthearted songs like “Pull Your Pants Up”. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am at Seward Park Canal St, Essex St, Jefferson St and E Broadway, Manhattan, NY. Free
Jul 20 CityParks PuppetMobile -The CityParks PuppetMobile presents the classic Puss in Boots tale, with a twist. From 10:30 am - 11:30 am. At Astoria Heights Playground 30 Rd. bet. 45 St. and 46 St., Queens, NY 11103.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Hill at Central Park - 106th Street and Central Park West (bet. W. 50th and W. 51st Sts.) Manhattan, NY. Call 212-360-8235.| Central Park is a beautiful and bustling place in the summer, and any reason to bring the entire family there is a welcome one. This year, the park’s annual Family Performance Festival continues its tradition with world-expanding arts and cultural offerings, including storytelling, puppet shows, music from around the world and eco-educational lessons. Be certain to RSVP to claim a spot in advance, as they’re sure to fill quickly. For more information, visit centralparknyc.org.
July 26 Clementine the Hipster explores Central Park Puppetry by Puppetsburg
August 2 Nature in the City - Musical Performance by Billy B
August 9 Butterfly Boogie - Puppetry by Central Park Zoo Wildlife Theater
August 16 Nature Songs and Stories Musical Performance and walk led by George Steele
August 23 The Case of the Missing Chipmunk Puppetry by WonderSpark Puppets
August 30 Hook, Line, and Sinker Musical Puppetry by Arm of the SeaTheater
Sept 6 Park Discovery! Hands on activities led by Conservancy Environmental Educators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
City Parks Foundation Family Day
FAMILY DAY featuring Invincible: The Michael Jackson Tribute, Marika Hughes & Bottom Heavy East River Park, MN Amphitheater; Cherry St. between Jackson St. and FDR Dr. at East River Park Amphitheater - Cherry St. betwn Jackson and FDR, Manhattan, NY on Sunday, August 9 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Free
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More Freebees!
Free New York City Summer Food - All children in New York City are eligible for free breakfast and lunch from June 27th to September 4th. The Summer Meals Program is available at hundreds of public schools, community pool centers, New York City Housing Authority complexes, Libraries, and other locations around the city. Some locations are even open on the weekends. Visit their site for locations and time. They have an app that you can download for more information.
They also have 4 mobile food truck locations offering meals seven days a week throughout the summer 10am to 3pm. They are stationed at locations frequented by children when school is out. These sites are Orchard Beach (Monday to Friday) & Roberto Clemente Park (Saturday & Sunday) in the Bronx, Sara D. Roosevelt Park (Rivington Park) in Manhattan, Flushing Meadow-Corona Park Zoo parking lot at 111th street, and Corona Plaza at Roosevelt Avenue & 103rd street) in Queens. Please use their search feature for the days and types of service for each truck. Use their search feature, download their app or text "NYCMeals" to 877-877* to find a location near you .
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Summer Reading 2016 at New York City Libraries – Parents and children can join the Summer Reading Program, Every Hero Has A Story at your local library or online, and find out why summer reading is so important, and get tips on some great books to read. There are quizzes and you can earn badges, and enjoy special events and surprises for children. Also check the library for special events , storytelling, music and movies.
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Barnes & Noble Bookstore has a summer reading program where children can earn a book by reading 8 books and recording it in a journal provided by the store. Bring your reading journal to a local B&N store and chose a book from their selection on the Reading Journal list at t he store. For more information and locations visit their site
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© 2010 Ken Henry