Mid-Winter Recess Activities for Families in the NY Metro Area

UPDATED FEBRUARY 2019: Whether your kids are just out for Presidents Day or a longer mid-winter recess, we've rounded up family activities, mini-camps, day-camps, and the best things to do to keep your crew entertained during their time off.
 

It’s a safe bet that the slew of snow days sprung on us over the last few weeks had you scrambling for childcare and activities to fill your children’s schedules. But the upcoming long weekend (and even longer mid-winter recess in some school districts) offers a chance for some planned family outings. Our editors have rounded up an amazing assortment of mini-camps (some of which offer extended care for working parents), museum workshops, drop-in events, and shows so you and your crew can get out and enjoy each other in New York City, Long Island, and the suburbs. Check out our calendar for more events during the week.

 

NEW YORK CITY

Brooklyn

Mid-Winter Break Camp
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 9am-3pm
WHERE: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Park
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: A fun-filled, one-day zoo camp full of hands-on activities, animal investigations, and animal encounters.
WANT TO GO? Prices Vary. 8004334149. prospectparkzoo.com/programs.

Presidents' Day Art Workshop
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 10am-5pm
WHERE: Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Ave., Staten Island
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Create your own portrait and see some of Kehinde's work.
WANT TO GO? $8; free for children younger than 1. 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Find My Way
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U, Marine Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Learn how to use a map and compass for safe hiking, then try out your skills on an orienteering trail.
WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Nature Games
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U, Marine Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Bring the kids in for games inspired by nature.
WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Build a Birdfeeder
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park, Fort Greene
AGES: All
WHAT: Learn how to build a birdfeeder for your backyard.
WANT TO GO? 718-722-3218. nycgovparks.org.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Knot Tying
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U, Marine Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Learn how to tie everything from a square knot to a bowline.
WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

FREE Jewelry Making Workshop with Chaya Adler
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2-3pm
WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library McKinley Park Branch , 6802 Fort Hamilton Parkway, Dyker Heights
AGES: 13-17
WHAT: Transform wire and beads of all shapes, colors, and sizes into stylish accessories.
WANT TO GO? 718-748-8001. bklynlibrary.org.

FREE Kids Create: Black History Month
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2:30-3:30pm
WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library – Fort Hamilton Branch, 9424 4th Ave. , Brooklyn
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Celebrate Black History Month with a fun craft.
WANT TO GO? 718-748-6919. bklynlibrary.org.

Future of Fashion
WHEN: Feb. 19-21, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11am
WHERE: Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Ave., Staten Island
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Create paper dolls in celebration of fashion week and see the work of stylists and models.
WANT TO GO? $8; free for children younger than 1. 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Fort Greene History and Colonial Games
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park, Fort Greene
AGES: All
WHAT: Step back in time and play some colonial games.
WANT TO GO? 718-722-3218. nycgovparks.org.

FREE PLG Young Readers Book Group
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 5:30pm
WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore PLG, 632 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Lefferts Garden
AGES: 9-12
WHAT: For February, the group discusses The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin.
WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. Greenlightbookstore.com.

The History of the Underground Railroad
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, Sessions at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm
WHERE: Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Ave., Staten Island
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Enjoy special presentations and art workshops to explore how this hidden resistance movement helped lead thousands of slaves to freedom.
WANT TO GO? $8; free for children younger than 1. 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.

FREE Ezra Jack Keats Story and Craft
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 4-5pm
WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library , 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
AGES: Newborn-5
WHAT: Librarians read aloud to children, lead a craft activity, and give kids a free copy of one of Keats's books.
WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org.

Researcher for a Day: Sharks!
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 9-10:30am
WHERE: New York Aquarium, 602 Surf Ave., Coney Island
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Explore the tools that researchers use in tagging and tracking sharks and find out how you can track sharks from your phone.
WANT TO GO? regular price, $60; member price, $50. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

FREE Kids Week Brooklyn: Birds of Prey
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U, Marine Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Learn about eagles, hawks, and owls, and the important role they play in nature.
WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.
 

Manhattan

Presidential Thinking Hats: Photo Booth
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 10:30am-4:45pm
WHERE: Children's Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Get your picture taken in Washington’s Tricorn hat, Lincoln’s top hat, Regan’s Stetson Rancher, or the Uncle Sam top hat.
WANT TO GO? $14; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Presidents Day: Cocoa with the Founders
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 1-4pm
WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., New York
AGES: All
WHAT: Learn about chocolate’s journey to the American colonies, its role in the American Revolution, and its importance to the new nation.
WANT TO GO? $21; $6 kids ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

FREE Kids Week Manhattan: Geology Rocks!
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Central Park – Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues, Central Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Look into how geology influenced the landscape and design of Central Park.
WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. centralparknyc.org.

Kids Week at the Intrepid Museum
WHEN: Feb. 17-23, 10am-5pm
WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Hell's Kitchen
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Visitors will enjoy maker space activities, animal shows, science demonstrations, and more.
WANT TO GO? $33; $24 children. 877-957-7447. intrepidmuseum.org.

FREE School Break Program
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 1-4pm
WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Create works of art during this day off from school.
WANT TO GO? 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

FREE Native Sounds Downtown: Garifuna Concert with James Lovell
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 6-7pm
WHERE: Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan
AGES: All
WHAT: James Lovell celebrates his Afro-Indigenous heritage in concert, joined by dynamic percussionists and dancers.
WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700.

1964: The Tribute
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 7:30pm
WHERE: Schimmel Center, 3 Spruce St., Lower Manhattan
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy a Beatles tribute concert featuring songs and performances with artful precision.
WANT TO GO? $19 and up . 646-765-4773. schimmelcenter.org.

FREE Musical Performance with Lia Holman
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 2-3pm
WHERE: Children's Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Learn the history of African-American music through song in this performance.
WANT TO GO? Tickets required . 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Ireland and America: A History in Song with Larry Kirwan
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 7:30pm
WHERE: Schimmel Center, 3 Spruce St., Lower Manhattan
AGES: All
WHAT: Through storytelling, acting, and singing, Irish and American history come roaring to life on stage.
WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 646-765-4773. schimmelcenter.org.
 

Queens

FREE Black History Bingo
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2-3pm
WHERE: Queens Library – South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Learn about prominent African Americans while enjoying a game of bingo.
WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

FREE February Break Family Programs: Storytime & Craft
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing
AGES: Newborn-5
WHAT: Join for a relaxing afternoon featuring nature-inspired stories and a botanically-themed craft.
WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Fantasy Terraniums: Winter Break Family Workshop
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 1pm
WHERE: Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave, Flushing
AGES: All
WHAT: A hands-on workshop to learn about the ecosystem of a terrarium and then create one to take home.
WANT TO GO? $5; $12 per family; free for children younger than 3; VOM members $4. 718-359-6227. queensbp.org.

FREE Hip Hop and Dance
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3-4pm
WHERE: Queens Library – Maspeth Branch, 69-70 Grand Ave., Maspeth
AGES: All
WHAT: Instructor Darlene Arrington demonstrates her hip hop workout through dance and shows participants how to follow a healthy lifestyle.
WANT TO GO? 718-639-5228. queenslibrary.org.

February Break Family Programs: Bugging Out!
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 2-2:30pm
WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing
AGES: All
WHAT: Explore the world of bugs by examining an earthworm, creating your own insect, and searching for bug homes outdoors.
WANT TO GO? $10. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

FREE Crafts, Fun, and Games
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 3-4pm
WHERE: Queens Library – Maspeth Branch, 69-70 Grand Ave., Maspeth
AGES: All
WHAT: Join for crafts, fun, and games.
WANT TO GO? 718-639-5228. queenslibrary.org.

FREE Vacation Week Fun: Film Friday
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 3-4:45pm
WHERE: Queens Library – Broadway Branch, 40-20 Broadway, Long Island City
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy a free, family-friendly movie.
WANT TO GO? 718-721-2462. queenslibrary.org.

 

LONG ISLAND

Nassau

Music & Astronomy Night
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 7-9pm
WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City
AGES: All
WHAT: Students from Adelphi University will play a mix of originals, covers, and improvised pieces to original movies highlighting the universe and humanity’s desire to explore it.
WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance to listen to live music paired with scientifically accurate out of this world visuals in the Planetarium.
WANT TO GO? $15 general admission; $12 students, seniors and, members. 516-572-4111. cradleofaviation.org.

Sensational Kids (Autism Exclusive)
WHEN: Feb. 4- July 29, Mondays, 6-8pm
WHERE: Bounce! Trampoline Sports, 310 Michael Drive, Syosset
AGES: All
WHAT: Bounce and play in a sensory-friendly and accomodating environment.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Staff members have experience working with the special needs community.
WANT TO GO? $12, 60 minutes; $18, 90 minutes; $24, 120 minutes; $3 non-slip socks. 516-762-1300. bouncesyosset.com.

FREE Traveling Pets– Live Animal Show
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2-3pm
WHERE: Baldwin Public Library, 2385 Grand Ave., Baldwin
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: See some common and some not-so-common pets up close while learning all about them.
WANT TO GO? 516-223-6228. baldwinpl.org.

FREE Children's Winter Recess Program- Frogs, Bugs & Animal Show
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2:30pm
WHERE: Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown
AGES: All
WHAT: Jason Reilly will be bringing exciting creatures for children to learn about.
WANT TO GO? 516-731-5728. levittownpl.org .

FREE Humane Education and Pet Therapy
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 1-3pm
WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Interact with a pet therapy dog and make pull toys to give to the shelter.
WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

FREE Dog Tales
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 4:15pm
WHERE: Oyster Bay East Norwich Public Library, 89 E. Main St., Oyster Bay
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Kids get special one-on-one time reading to therapy dogs, which has been shown to improve comprehension and enjoyment.
WANT TO GO? 516-922-1212. oysterbaylibrary.org.

FREE Doodle in 3D with US
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2:30pm
WHERE: Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown
AGES: 9-12
WHAT: Learn how to use the 3Doodler and make your own project.
WANT TO GO? 516-731-5728. levittownpl.org .

FREE Starry Night Painting
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 7-8pm
WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove
AGES: 9-17
WHAT: Create a Vincent van Gogh painting of the Starry Night.
WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

FREE Wood Panel Hydrangea Painting
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 7:15pm
WHERE: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville
AGES: 13-17
WHAT: Paint spring-themed hydrangea flowers onto wood.
WANT TO GO? 516-931-1417. hicksvillelibrary.org.

FREE Lights, Color, Action
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 11am
WHERE: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Explore chromatography by using Newton’s color theory concepts, spectroscopes, and ultraviolet light.
WANT TO GO? 516-931-1417. hicksvillelibrary.org.

FREE Terrarium Bottle Necklace: Gnomes, Pets, or Unicorns
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 4-5pm
WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees
AGES: 13-17
WHAT: Make adorable terrarium necklaces.
WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. Islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

February Break for Art
WHEN: Feb. 19-21, 11am-2pm
WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
AGES: All
WHAT: Three days of art making inspired by the art on view in the museum’s current exhibition Wild Kingdom.
WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12; free for children younger than 4; $15 per family materials fee . 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

LOL Glitter Doll Paint Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-21, daily, 11am-12:30pm
WHERE: Key to My Art East Rockaway, 131 Main St., East Rockaway
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Every day this week is a new LOL Glitter Doll character to paint.
WANT TO GO? $20. 516-218-2920. Keytomyart.com.

Pokemon Paint Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-21, daily, 1:30-3pm
WHERE: Key to My Art East Rockaway, 131 Main St., East Rockaway
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Every day this week is a new Pokemon character to paint.
WANT TO GO? $20. 516-218-2920. Keytomyart.com.

February Break Slime, Orbeez & Bracelet Making Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 11am-1pm
WHERE: The Lanyard Ladies, 433 Merrick Road, OCEANSIDE
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Join The Lanyard Ladies during break and make all kinds of fun.
WANT TO GO? $35 a day. 516-578-2248. thelanyardladies.com.

FREE Mosaic Letter On Canvas
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 2pm
WHERE: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Children will use mixed mosaics and acrylic paint to create a bold letter-shaped initial on canvas.
WANT TO GO? 516-931-1417. hicksvillelibrary.org.

FREE Polar Bear Cupcakes
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2pm
WHERE: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Make and use fondant icing to create little bears and paw prints.
WANT TO GO? 516-931-1417. hicksvillelibrary.org.

FREE Popping Unicorn Dip
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 3:30-4:30pm
WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Each child will make and enjoy an individual unicorn dip garnished with sprinkles and pop rocks.
WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. Islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

FREE Heart Shaped Pizza
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3-4pm
WHERE: Baldwin Public Library, 2385 Grand Ave., Baldwin
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Make your own heart-shaped pizza pie.
WANT TO GO? 516-223-6228. baldwinpl.org.

FREE Oreo Taste Test
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2-3pm
WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Test your Oreo flavor knowledge with a blind taste test!
WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. Glencovelibrary.org.

FREE Cultural Rhythms from Around the Globe
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 6:30-7:30pm
WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove
AGES: 9 and older
WHAT: Participants will discuss elements of West African music and perform cultural rhythms using traditional African instruments.
WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. Glencovelibrary.org.

Musical Playalong
WHEN: Feb. 18-21, 10:15am to 11:00 or 11:30am to 12:15
WHERE: Not Just Art, 183 South Street, Oyster Bay
AGES: Newborn-5
WHAT: Sing, shimmy and shake out the winter ya-yas in this exuberant 45 minute music and movement class.
WANT TO GO? $12 first child; $10 sibling . 516-922-8300. notjustart.com.

Sioux Falls Sky Force at Long Island Nets
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 7pm
WHERE: NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale
AGES: All
WHAT: Join the Long Island Nets as they take on the Sioux Falls Sky Force and enjoy the free Kids Zone, contests, and giveaways.
WANT TO GO? Tickets starting at $15. 844-546 – 3871. longislandnets.com.

Puck Shoot for Kids
WHEN: Feb. 16-22, Saturday, 9:45-11:15am; Monday, 5:15-6:45pm; Friday, 5:15-6:45pm
WHERE: Port Washington Skating Center , 70 Seaview Blvd., Port Washington
AGES: All
WHAT: Practice by yourself or bring a friend!
WANT TO GO? $15. 516-484-6800. pwskating.com.

FREE Children's Winter Recess Movie – 'Smallfoot'
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2:30pm
WHERE: Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown
AGES: All
WHAT: A yeti is convinced that the mysterious creatures known as humans really do exist!
WANT TO GO? 516-731-5728. levittownpl.org .

FREE Family Film: 'The Incredibles 2'
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 2pm
WHERE: Baldwin Public Library, 2385 Grand Ave., Baldwin
AGES: All
WHAT: Bring blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags to watch a movie on the big screen.
WANT TO GO? 516-223-6228. baldwinpl.org.

FREE Kids Movie: 'The House With A Clock In Its Walls'
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 11am-1pm
WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy a movie on the big screen!
WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. Islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

FREE STEM TIME – Electricity
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 1:15pm
WHERE: Baldwin Public Library, 2385 Grand Ave., Baldwin
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Construct circuits and test materials for conductivity with spage-age plasma balls.
WANT TO GO? 516-223-6228. baldwinpl.org.

FREE Changes and Challenges
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2pm
WHERE: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Learn how to type your name in braille, communicate through sign language, and test your brain with mirror mazes.
WANT TO GO? 516-931-1417. hicksvillelibrary.org.

Tiny Tots Nature Discoveries- Counting Critters
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 10:30-11:30am
WHERE: Jones Beach Nature Center, 1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Explore the natural world through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts.
WANT TO GO? $4. 516-780-3295.
 

Suffolk

Presidents Week: Whalers Wanted Workshop!
WHEN: Feb. 20-22, Wednesday and Friday, 12pm and 1pm
WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor
AGES: All
WHAT: In honor of Black History month, celebrate America’s first racially integrated industry, and learn about what life was like on a whaleship for people of color.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can carve a scrimshaw box as a special keepsake.
WANT TO GO? $12 per participant; $6 members. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Snowbirds Painting
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 1-2:30pm
WHERE: Picasso Kidz, 72 Broadway, Greenlawn
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Children are guided step-by-step to create an acrylic painting on canvas.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-261-5500. Picassokidz.com.

Creative Children's Workshops: Big Cats and Mask
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Explore the wildlife dioramas, touch teeth and claws, and make a mask of your favorite big cat in the collection.
WANT TO GO? $20; $18 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Things That Sting (and Things That Don't!)
WHEN: Feb. 20-21, Wednesday and Thursday, 9:30am-12pm and 1-3:30pm
WHERE: Cornell University Sport Fishing Education Center and Aquaculture Facility, Ocean Parkway, Babylon
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Discover sea creatures that are known to sting, bite, or slime! Then look at some that don’t sting and dispel myths. Make a nonstinging creature to take home.
WANT TO GO? $32. 631-587-2873. ccesuffolk.org.

Snowman Portrait
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 1:30-3pm
WHERE: Picasso Kidz, 72 Broadway, Greenlawn
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Learn how to paint a fun snowman on canvas.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-261-5500. Picassokidz.com.

Wood Creature Sculpture
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 10-11:30am
WHERE: Picasso Kidz, 72 Broadway, Greenlawn
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: Use your creativity to build a creature out of various wood pieces, then add embellishments.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-261-5500. Picassokidz.com.

FREE Open crafting Day
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2pm-4pm
WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach
AGES: 9-12
WHAT: Participants will use various supplies, along with their imaginations, to create crafts.
WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Jackson Pollock With Joyce Raimondo
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 10-11am
WHERE: Children's Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Drip, drop, and splatter in the style of Jackson Pollock.
WANT TO GO? $1 for members; $3 for non-members (admission separate). 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Snowman Rock Painting
WHEN: Feb. 19-21, Tuesday, 11am-2:30pm; Thursday, 2:30-4pm
WHERE: Picasso Kidz, 72 Broadway, Greenlawn
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Celebrate the joy of winter by creating a fun and whimsical snowman made of rocks.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-261-5500. Picassokidz.com.

Crayon Workshop
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 10-11:30am
WHERE: Picasso Kidz, 72 Broadway, Greenlawn
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: This fun workshop will show children how they can create art by melting crayons and also create sculptures with them.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-261-5500. Picassokidz.com.

Pop-Up Puppet Workshop – Mini Camp Day
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 9am-12pm
WHERE: ThinkBIG! Theater Arts , 42 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: A hands-on puppet making and performing workshop.
WANT TO GO? $35. 631-307-4042. Thinkbigtheaterarts.org.

LOL Glitter Doll Paint Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-21, daily, 11am-12:30pm
WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Every day this week includes a new LOL Glitter Doll character to paint.
WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. Keytomyart.com.

Pokemon Paint Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-21, daily, 1:30-3pm
WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: paint a new Pokemon character each day!
WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. Keytomyart.com.

FREE African Masks
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2-3pm
WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Learn about the art and symbolism behind African masks and create one of own.
WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Winter Recess Clay Immersion Camps
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 9am-12pm
WHERE: Studio E Art Classes, 565 route 25a, Miller place
AGES: 5-8
WHAT:
WANT TO GO? $50 per 3 hour clay immersion session. 631-744-4001. https://studioeartclass.com/school-aged-events.

February Break
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 11am-3pm
WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Make snow that won't melt, ice cream, and gooey slime, and learn about animals.
WANT TO GO? $6; $4 kids ages 3-12 and seniors ages 65 and older; members free. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org. 

FREE Take Your Child to the Library Day
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2-4pm
WHERE: Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Join for carnival games, face painting, temporary tattoos, balloon sculpting, and crafts.
WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org. 

Presidents Day: Colonial Crafts
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 12pm and 1pm
WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate the birthday of George Washington and explore life in Colonial America. Get a glimpse of what children played with in the past!
WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children; Members half-price. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Presidents Week: Build-a-Boat Workshop
WHEN: Feb. 19-21, Tuesday and Thursday 1pm-3pm
WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor
AGES: All
WHAT: Drop in to create a wooden vessel of your design with a variety of materials.
WANT TO GO? $12 per participant; $6 members. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Celebrate Presidents Week at the Fire Island Lighthouse
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 10am-3pm
WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park parking field 5, Fire Island
AGES: 3-17
WHAT: Take advantage of reduced tower tour fees and a special activity.
WANT TO GO? $8; $4 seniors 65 and older; free for Active Military Personnel; $4 veterans; $4 children 12 and younger; $2 members. 631-661-4876. Fireislandlighthouse.com.

President's Week Workshop: Focaccia Bread and Brownies
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 3:30-5:30pm
WHERE: The Baking Coach, Inc., 320 Broadway-Greenlawn Road, Huntington
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Learn how to make delicious focaccia bread and brownies.
WANT TO GO? $45. 631-543-8608. bakingcoach.com.

President's Week Workshops: Crescent Rolls and Cookies and Cream Truffles
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 3:30-5:30pm
WHERE: The Baking Coach, Inc., 320 Broadway-Greenlawn Road, Huntington
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Learn how to bake crescent rolls, cookies, and cream truffles.
WANT TO GO? $45. 631-543-8608. bakingcoach.com.

President's Week Workshops: Pretzel Dogs and Cake Pops
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 1-3pm
WHERE: The Baking Coach, Inc., 320 Broadway-Greenlawn Road, Huntington
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Bake something salty and something sweet at this workshop.
WANT TO GO? $45. 631-543-8608. bakingcoach.com.

President's Week Workshops: Crazy Milk Shakes and Cupcake Decorating
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 3:30-5:30pm
WHERE: The Baking Coach, Inc., 320 Broadway-Greenlawn Road, Huntington
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Crazy for sweets? Check out this milkshakes and cupcake decorating class.
WANT TO GO? $45. 631-543-8608. bakingcoach.com.

President's Week Workshops: Fondant Cake Decorating
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3:30-5:30pm
WHERE: The Baking Coach, Inc., 320 Broadway-Greenlawn Road, Huntington
AGES: 5-17
WHAT: Kids can give fondant cake decorating a try!
WANT TO GO? $45. 631-543-8608. bakingcoach.com.

KZAM Open Play
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 1pm-3pm
WHERE: KZAM Farmingdale, 85 Sea Lane, Farmingdale
AGES: 3-8
WHAT:
WANT TO GO? $14.95 per child. 631-393-0801. KZAMLI.com .

FREE Celebrate Black History Month
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3:30-5pm
WHERE: Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Ave., Babylon
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate Black History Month with a movie and some great crafts.
WANT TO GO? 631-669-1624. babylonlibrary.org.

FREE Family Movie: 'Frozen'
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2– 3:49pm
WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton
AGES: All
WHAT: Bring the family to watch the Disney hit Frozen!
WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. Easthamptonlibrary.org.

FREE 'The Incredibles'
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 2pm
WHERE: Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Ave., Babylon
AGES: Newborn-5
WHAT: Enjoy a movie, crafts, and snacks!
WANT TO GO? 631-669-1624. babylonlibrary.org.

FREE February Break Retro Movie Marathon
WHEN: Feb. 21-22, 1:30pm
WHERE: John Jermain Memorial Library, 201 Main St., Sag Harbor
AGES: 9-17
WHAT: Check out this movie marathon featuring The Neverending Story and E.T.
WANT TO GO? 631-725-0049. johnjermain.org.

Play in a Day – Winter Break Mini camp
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 9am-12pm
WHERE: ThinkBIG! Theater Arts, 42 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Bring to life a beloved story from page to stage complete with costumes, props, and a musical number or two.
WANT TO GO? $30. 631-307-4042. Thinkbigtheaterarts.org.

'Charlotte's Web'
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 11am
WHERE: YMCA Boulton Center, 37 W. Main St., Bay Shore
AGES: 5 and older
WHAT: See one of the most memorable children's books on stage with live actors, puppets, and multimedia.
WANT TO GO? $12 reserved; $7 reserved VIP club member. 631-969-1101. boultoncenter.org.

Creative Children's Workshops: Portraits
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Learn about the Vanderbilt family, make interesting observations about the collections, and create a self-portrait.
WANT TO GO? $20; $18 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Creative Children's Workshops: Ancient Egypt and Rattle Instrument
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Travel back to ancient Egypt and make an instrument.
WANT TO GO? $20; $18 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

FREE Family Drop-In Day
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 11am-1pm
WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy family activities in the Carriage Museum and outside on the grounds.
WANT TO GO? 631-751-0066. Longislandmuseum.org.

Creative Children's Workshops: Deep Blue Sea and Mixed Media Collage
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Compare fish and mammals, examine teeth and baleen, and create art using a variety of materials and techniques.
WANT TO GO? $20; $18 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Children’s Etiquette Workshop
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 1:30-3pm
WHERE: Carl’s Candies, 50 Main St., Northport
AGES: All
WHAT: Kids will have fun while learning the social skills necessary to face everyday situations with grace, integrity, and confidence.
WANT TO GO? $35. 800-827-4564. Actasifetiquette.com.

Vacation Ventures
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook
AGES: 5-8
WHAT: Discuss author/illustrator Leo Lionni and create beautiful projects inspired by his stories and illustrations.
WANT TO GO? $25. 631-751-0066. Longislandmuseum.org.

Preschool Workshop– Polar Animals and Repurposed Water Bottle Art
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 10am-12pm
WHERE: Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: Explore the wildlife dioramas, learn how animals adapt to less light, and make a snow globe.
WANT TO GO? $20; $18 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

FREE Full Snow Moon Hike at SOFO with Friends of the Long Pond Greenbelt
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 6:30pm
WHERE: South Fork Natural History Museum, 377 Bridgehampton Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton
AGES: All
WHAT: Join this leisurely paced, one-hour hike through open-field trails and stay for light refreshments and conversation.
WANT TO GO? 631-537-9735. sofo.org.

 

SUBURBS

Westchester

FREE WeDo Robots
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 3-4pm
WHERE: Mt. Kisco Public Library, 100 E. Main St., Mount Kisco
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Participants will work in pairs to build and run motors using the Lego Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set.
WHY WE LOVE IT: This collaborative project introduces kids to computational thinking and engineering principles in a fun and engaging way.
WANT TO GO? 914-666-8041. mountkiscolibrary.org.

FREE Outraghisss Pets
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 1-2pm
WHERE: Hendrick Hudson Free Library, 185 Kings Ferry Road, Montrose
AGES: All
WHAT: See a live animal show where you can meet amazing creatures, learn what they eat and where they come from, and even touch them.
WANT TO GO? 914-739-5654. henhudfreelibrary.org.

FREE Art All Afternoon
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 12-4pm
WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 195 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua
AGES: All
WHAT: Craft materials available for hands-on fun.
WANT TO GO? 914-332-0133. chappaqualibrary.org.

Open Studio for Kids
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3:30-4:45pm
WHERE: Neuberger Museum of Art, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: Kids can make art inspired by the works on view in the galleries. Each studio session, a different tactile art project will be offered along with an afternoon snack and juice box.
WANT TO GO? $15 for non-members. 914-251-6100 . neuberger.org.

Rainbows & Unicorns and Camp Jojo @ Studio B
WHEN: Feb. 19-21, Ages 3-5: 9:30am-12:30pm & Ages 6-9: 9:30am-2:30pm
WHERE: Studio B Dance Center, 277 White Plains Rd, Eastchester
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Dance to some of your favorite Jojo songs, create in our arts & crafts and play all afternoon with new friends.
WANT TO GO? $50 per day or $135 all 3 days for ages 3-5; $65 per day or $180 all 3 days ages 6-9. 914-793-2799. Studiobdance.com.

FREE Video Game Design Camp
WHEN: Feb. 19-22, 2pm-3:30pm
WHERE: White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains
AGES: 9-12
WHAT: Learn about video game design using a variety of products and software applications.
WANT TO GO? 914-422-1476. whiteplainslibrary.org.

Winter Wolves for President's Day
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 11am
WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem
AGES: 5 and older
WHAT: Discover why this season is such a magical time for packs in North America.
WANT TO GO? $15; $12 children younger than 12. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

FREE Create Your Own Campaign Poster
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 1pm
WHERE: Lewisboro Library, 15 Main St., South Salem
AGES: 5-12
WHAT: In honor of Presidents’ Day, learn about civics and make your own campaign poster.
WANT TO GO? 914-875-9004. lewisborolibrary.org.

School Break Camp- Presidents' Week Break
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, Full Day, 10am-4pm; Half Day, 10am-1pm or 1-4pm
WHERE: SPORTIME Harbor Island, West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck
AGES: 3-17
WHAT: Send your kids to SPORTIME for age- and level-appropriate tennis/sports drills, games, and fun.
WANT TO GO? See website for pricing. 914-777-5050. sportimeny.com.

Camp Pinebrook Presidents' Week Camp!
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 9 am – 4pm
WHERE: Temple Israel of New Rochelle, 1000 Pinebrook Boulevard, New Rochelle
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Get a taste of Camp with activities, lunch, and snacks.
WANT TO GO? $350. 914-235-1800. camppinebrook.com.

'The Iron Giant': School Break Screening
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 18, 2:30pm
WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Road, Pleasantville
AGES: 5 and older
WHAT: This animated film taps into the 1950s Space-Race frenzy while remaining a story about friendship and acceptance.
WANT TO GO? $7.50 child 13 and younger; $14 non-member; $10 student with valid ID. 914-747-5555. burnsfilmcenter.org.

FREE Short Films for Short People
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 11-11:30am
WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 195 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua
AGES: All
WHAT: Watch picture books come alive on the big screen.
WANT TO GO? 914-332-0133. Chappaqualibrary.org.

FREE Kurt Gallagher Concert
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 12-1pm
WHERE: Mount Kisco Library, 100 E. Main St., Mount Kisco
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: Children will have a blast moving, giggling, and making music along to Kurt’s interactive songs.
WANT TO GO? 914-864-0130. mountkiscolibrary.org.

FREE Puzzles & Board Games
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2pm
WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill
AGES: All
WHAT: Solve all different kinds of puzzles. Or team up with friends for some board game fun.
WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

FREE STEAM Team
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 2pm
WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Flex your brain and your fingers with some hands-on STEAM activities and games.
WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Exploring Play: Our Healthy Hearts
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 11am-11:30am
WHERE: Westchester Children's Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye
AGES: 3-5
WHAT: Read “Allie’s Healthy Heart,” sing a song, and look at pictures of HEALTHY foods and SNACK foods.
WANT TO GO? FREE with museum admission. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

Winter Nature Experience Camp (K-1)
WHEN: Feb. 18-22, 9:30am-1:30pm
WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale
AGES: 3-8
WHAT: Each day of camp includes fun crafts, games, and outdoor adventures.
WANT TO GO? $350 for the week. 914-723-3470. [email protected].

 

Rockland

Family Fun Night
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 5:30-6:45pm
WHERE: New City Library, 220 N. Main St., New City
AGES: All
WHAT: Bring the family to play life-size games including a black light Chutes and Ladders and Candy Land.
WHY WE LOVE IT: It's a great way to spend that witching hour before dinnertime!
WANT TO GO? Open to New City or West Nyack library card holders only. . 845-634-4997. newcitylibrary.org.

FREE Pinterest Party @ the Library – 'Wine Cork Bulletin Board'
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 6:30-7:45pm
WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick
AGES: 13 and older
WHAT: Turn a dollar store frame into a unique bulletin board using corks.
WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

FREE Do-It-Yourself Craft
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 21, 3-5pm
WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Drop in for craft time and a snack with Miss Nancy.
WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

FREE Winter Fun
WHEN: Feb. 19-22, Tuesday and Friday, 10am-3pm; Wednesday and Thursday, 10am-5pm
WHERE: Haverstraw King's Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw
AGES: 3-12
WHAT: Take a break with movie marathons, a coloring club, PS4, and more.
WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org.

Teen Chopped Challenge
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 4-6pm
WHERE: New City Library, 220 N. Main St., New City
AGES: 13-17
WHAT: Teens will work in teams with one hour to prepare an entree and dessert. Baskets of ingredients will be provided as well as a few pantry items.
WANT TO GO? Open to New City or West Nyack library card holders only. . 845-634-4997. newcitylibrary.org.

FREE Teen Game Night
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 22, 5-6:30pm
WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick
AGES: 13-17
WHAT: Play some video games, card games, and board games.
WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

 

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