Family Times May 2024

motherhood

How made me appreciate my mom

19-21

SHORTEST WAIT TIMES.

Our team is one of the fastest, most efficient in treating urgent, complex medical conditions. This adds up to the best in emergency care at the hospital you trust. In an emergency call 911. Then say, “Take Me to Crouse.”

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6 Question of the Month

8 Educator of the Month

10 Treat Yourself

The MOST’s National Grid ExploraDome offers “an incredibly immersive experience.”

12 315 Bulletin

14 Together Times

Make your child’s next birthday a memorable one (without a party).

16 Feature

A mom reflects on how motherhood has made her appreciate her mom even more.

19 Education

Our inaugural list of area preschool and prekindergarten programs –plus a few tips for finding the right fit.

22 Explore CNY Museums, parks, and wildlife adventures await in Chittenango.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Sarah Lyons ends her article on page 16 with a recommendation:

“This Mother’s Day, take notice of the hard work moms do every day. Acknowledge the little things they do, thank them for always being there, and hug them tight before you leave.”

So, mom, here are a few things I appreciate about you: How you never missed a dance recital, band concert, or soccer game when we were growing up; how you cared for us (and still do!) when we were sick or injured; and how you have always supported my dreams, despite them taking me far away from home. I am so thankful to have you in my life.

But Mother’s Day isn’t all we’re celebrating this month – Family Times is 21! In honor of the occasion, turn to page 14 for some ways you can make your child’s next birthday a memorable one, even without a party.

It has also been a year since we introduced our newest feature, Explore CNY, which highlights some of the family-friendly activities in area towns. See the latest pick on page 22 (hint: the author of a famous book-turned-movie was born there) or click here to view our previous destinations.

Thank you for reading – and Happy Mother’s Day to all the Central New York mothers and mother figures!

Courtney Kless EDITOR IN CHIEF

Choosing the right preschool or prekindergarten program is crucial for your child’s early development. We’re here to help! Our inaugural guide on pages 19-21 includes a list of options in Central New York, plus a few tips for finding the best fit.

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Barnes

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Renate Wood

Janelle Davis, Sarah Lyons

SALES MANAGER

Hudson (ext. 201)

204)

Design by Renate Wood

Photo by

STEAM High School

Community Information Session

May 23 & June 20 from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Salt City Market - Community Room | 484 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13202

The City of Syracuse, the Syracuse City School District, Onondaga County, and New York State are collaborating on the area's first STEAM high school. Open to Syracuse City School District and OCM BOCES component districts, it emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The curriculum offers eight concentrations, including:

• Business Entrepreneurship

• Construction Management

• Data Intelligence

• Entertainment Engineering

• Media Technology and Design

• Robotics/Automation

• Semi-Conductor Manufacturing Technology

• Visual & Performing Arts

Join Executive Director/Planning Principal Jody Manning, MBA, Ed.D., for an informational session about the upcoming STEAM high school. During the session, you will be able to ask questions and receive additional info about the programs, the application process, and more!

Other presenting programs: Semiconductor Microchip Technology P-TECH program at Corcoran High School and Career and Technical Education programs offered at the Syracuse City School District.

“Lasnicki Garden Center in Hastings, NY.”

– DEBBI, CENTRAL SQUARE

“Hafner’s.” – DANIELLE, NORTH SYRACUSE

“Sorbello’s in Chittenango, NY.” – KATHIE, ONEIDA

“Hafner’s.” – CAROL, JAMESVILLE

“Lasnicki in Hastings.” – SARAH, PALERMO

“Hafner’s.” – GREG, BALDWINSVILLE

“Vollmer’s.”

– JOHN, JAMESVILLE

TENTION:

可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-866-265-1893, TTY 711.

Jaimie Williams, Elementary Teacher for the BOCES Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program

BY JANELLE DAVIS

1. What is your educational background, and what interested you in becoming a teacher of the deaf?

I grew up in Rochester. Rochester has the second-largest deaf population in the country. I experienced it a lot growing up. I also come from a family of teachers. Those two aspects just kind of fell together. I went to Vanderbilt University in Tennessee to get my undergraduate degree in teacher of the deaf. I did my student teaching at Metro Nashville Public Schools. The program at Vanderbilt was interesting to me because it was small and more personalized. I really hit it off with the woman in charge of the program. She was a great mentor for me. I still keep in touch with her. Everything came together, and I’m truly so grateful for my experience and what I do.

2. How does the BOCES Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program work?

It’s a really unique program. Usually, teachers of the deaf either work at a school for the deaf or are out as itinerants, where they see kids with hearing loss who are in a general education class. They work as support in the classroom a few times a week. Our program is self-contained. I have all of my kids in my own classroom.

My classroom is located in the Solvay School District. There are two teachers in the elementary program. My focus is on kindergarten and first grade. The program is for kids whose hearing loss impacts their learning so severely that they can’t benefit from the general education classroom. They need full-day instruction directly from the teacher of the deaf. There are only so many teachers of the deaf in Central New York. To find that full-day instruction, you have to come to our program. If a student needs those services, their district can contract with BOCES. Students from the Mexico, Central Square, Syracuse City, Jamesville-DeWitt School Districts and more all come to our program. We’re kind of like a hub.

3. Can you share a little bit of how you make the magic happen when helping elementary students read and learn sign language?

Our philosophy is that a student with a hearing loss learns as a student without a hearing loss, just through different methods. We generally use sign language as the primary language and then with modifications. We modify the language and vocabulary we use. Even though many students come in with little language, we are still expected to teach the New York State learning standards, just at a different pace.

We use a lot of visuals. My teaching assistants and teaching assistant interpreters are very helpful. Sometimes, when I am in front of the whole class, I am too far away for the students to focus on me. The assistants sit with various students and sign everything that I am saying. They help reduce or increase proximity, so students don’t have to look so far away (for example, when I am signing a story). This helps the students a lot with focus.

4. What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most rewarding things, especially at the kindergarten level, is seeing their tremendous growth. They come in with little language and don’t know very many signs. Their parents are so impressed and express a desire to keep up with them. The kids pick things up and learn the names of things so quickly. They’re like little sponges, so seeing the fast growth is very rewarding.

Janelle Davis is a freelance writer living in Fairmount with her family.

July 1 - Aug. 28, 2024 | 6:30am-6:00pm

People of all ages love the experience of feeling like you’re right there in the action with the subjects of the film, whether that’s following a baby whale and her mom in Ocean Odyssey, migrating with a herd of wildebeest on the African savannah with Serengeti, or blasting off to Mars in our planetarium show.

– Lauren Kochian, president of the MOST

Treat Yourself

The MOST’s National Grid

ExploraDome

offers “an incredibly immersive experience”

BY COURTNEY KLESS

Adventure is closer than you think!

Travel around the world or explore the solar system from a seat in the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)’s National Grid ExploraDome.

The museum has been teaching children – and adults – about science and technology for the past four decades (it opened on Nov. 15, 1981, and moved to the Syracuse Armory building in the early 1990s after outgrowing its original space). For more than half of that time, the MOST has offered educational programming in its domed theatre, covering everything from space travel to dinosaurs to backyard science. Beginning in 2020, the theatre, formerly equipped with analog IMAX technology, underwent a renovation, reopening in April of 2022 as the National Grid ExploraDome.

“Our theatre is the only one in the entire northeast using this sophisticated laser projection system,” said MOST President Lauren Kochian. “The level of detail projected onto the screen allows for an incredibly immersive experience. The sophisticated sound system brings to life the action and

wonder that each viewer sees. There is no other visual experience like it in Central New York!”

The theatre has five daily screenings (you can see the current schedule in the box on the right), with new movies releasing each quarter. Or you can attend a special event, like NightLab, an adults-only happy hour and classic movie screening.

“If you’ve never been in a domed theatre like this, you’re in for a treat!” said Kochian. “People of all ages love the experience of feeling like you’re right there in the action with the subjects of the film, whether that’s following a baby whale and her mom in Ocean Odyssey, migrating with a herd of wildebeest on the African savannah with Serengeti, or blasting off to Mars in our planetarium show. And if you are worried about motion sickness, sit in the very top rows to get a more toned-down experience.”

Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times She lives in Camillus with her husband.

Daily Shows at the National Grid ExploraDome (through June 30)

10:30 a.m. – Mars: The Ultimate Voyage (planetarium show)

11:30 a.m. – Ocean Odyssey

12:30 p.m. – Mars: The Ultimate Voyage (planetarium show)

1:30 p.m. – Ocean Odyssey

2:30 p.m. – Serengeti

For more information, visit most.org/watch

One-week Ballerina Camp

ages 3-10 Jul 29-Aug 2 8:30/9:00am-12

One-week Jr.Summer Dance Outreach

ages 7-10 Jul 29-Aug 2 9:00am-12:30

Baltimore Woods Nature Center Hosts Student Art Exhibit

The Student Art Exhibit is returning to the Baltimore Woods Nature Center this month.

The nature-inspired artwork, created by elementary, middle, and high schoolers in the Auburn, Marcellus, Onondaga, Skaneateles, and West Genesee Central School Districts, will be on display in the Interpretive Center from May 6-31.

“We look forward to this display every year,” said Karen Jean Smith, gallery coordinator, in a press release. “It’s fun to see the enthusiasm expressed by the students in their work and also when they come to see the show. On a more serious note, it is the mission of Baltimore Woods Nature Center to connect communities and nature in wisdom and wonder. By studying flora, fauna, landscapes, or other aspects of nature to create works of art, these fundamental connections can be made. It is only fitting that we celebrate the students, their achievements, and the school art programs.”

For more information, visit baltimorewoods.org/art-gallery.

Syracuse Stage Shares Plans for 2024/25 Season

Syracuse Stage will present comedic dramas, a Broadway musical, and more during its 2024/25 season.

There are six shows on the schedule: Dial M for Murder (Oct. 16 – Nov. 3); Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Nov. 22 – Jan. 5); Primary Trust (Jan. 22 – Feb. 9); King James (Feb. 26 – March 16); Sense and Sensibility (Apr. 23 – May 11); and The National Pastime (Jun. 11 – 29). The Children’s Tour and Theatre for the Very Young will also return.

“We strive to create singular theatrical experiences that delight and entertain Central New York audiences,” said Robert Hupp, Syracuse Stage artistic director, in a press release. “Our 51st season illustrates the breadth and scope of all that theatre aspires to be: From world premieres and musical classics to the familiar and the adventurous, we create our productions right here at our home on Genesee and Irving.”

To learn more, visit syracusestage.org.

Sciencenter Updates Exhibit

An exhibit at Ithaca’s Sciencenter has received a few updates.

In April, the museum unveiled a new mural in the Family Learning Area. Created by Rachel Feirman, a local artist, it showcases bees, plants, and flowers. The Sciencenter said it also added a reading nook, a sensory table, and puppets.

“We are thrilled to integrate feedback from visitors to ensure the space is engaging and comfortable for families,” said Annie Gordon, education program manager, in a press release. “With new tools and activities complementing the mural, children will have even more opportunities to learn and explore.”

For more information, visit sciencenter.org

For more community news, visit communityguide.familytimescny.com/article.

Taughannock Falls by Jaden Baker, Marcellus Senior High School

The Roots of Blossoming by Kaitlyn Hoy, West Genesee Senior High School

Arc

Rosamond Gifford Zoo Summer Camp

July 1 - August 30 Free

Free

Beaver Lake Nature Center

July 1 - August 16

Have a Happy Birthday (Without the Party)

BY SARAH LYONS

The day your child was born is a day to celebrate and make them feel special. Birthday parties are fun, but they can be a lot of work and the costs can quickly add up. If you decide to skip the birthday party, it doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate big. Here are some ideas to make sure your child’s birthday is special:

Create Anticipation

As the birthday approaches, build anticipation by talking about it and planning what the day will hold. You can create a special countdown by making a paper chain and tearing off one chain per day, or even just counting down the number of days on a chalkboard in your home. Explain that although there will not be a big birthday party this year, there will still be a lot of fun things planned.

Make the Cake

A great way to save money on a birthday celebration is to make the cake yourself. Choose flavors and colors or themes your child loves and get siblings involved in the preparation. Kids typically don’t care if the cake is perfectly decorated; they are happy with a cake that is made just for them.

Balloon Avalanche

When your child goes to sleep the night before their birthday, decorate the house with balloons or birthday decor. Try taping a disposable tablecloth to the outside of the door jam and fill the space between with balloons. When your child opens the door, they will be greeted with a balloon avalanche that is sure to put a big smile on their face.

Kid’s Choice

When you are planning the day, consider your child’s favorites. Plan the day’s meals around your child’s favorite foods. Choose things that you typically do not serve to make the day more special. If you are planning to go on an outing, or if you will be dining out, let the child choose the location.

Document the Day

Create a list of questions to ask your child on their birthday, such as “who is your best friend?” or list TV shows, songs, foods, etc. Record the answers in a safe place and repeat each year. It’s fun to look back and see how your child has changed and matured over the years.

Tell Their Story

Kids love to hear stories about the day they were born, the cute things they did as a baby, or how you prepared for their arrival. Spend part of the day telling your favorite stories about your child. They are sure to love it.

Have Others Reach Out

Ask friends and family to wish your child a happy birthday with calls, texts, messages, or cards. Consider talking to family members via Skype. This will help your child know that others are celebrating them, even if you aren’t hosting a big birthday party this year.

As parents, we often feel like we have to spend a lot to make our child’s birthday special when this is truly not the case. With a little extra planning, your child’s day can be just as special as any expensive party.

More Big Ways to Celebrate Without a Party

Go to the movies

Local spots: Capitol Arts Complex; Finger Lakes Drive-In; Midway DriveIn Theatre; Movieplex Cinema; Movie Tavern Syracuse; Oswego Cinema 7; Regal Destiny USA; Rome Cinema 8

Visit an amusement park

Local spots: Enchanted Forest Water Safari; Seabreeze Amusement Park; Six Flags Darien Lake; Sylvan Beach Amusement Park; Thunder Island.

Have dinner out

Local spots: Dave & Buster’s; Heid’s Sweet Treats; Johnny Rockets; Modern Malt; Spaghetti Warehouse; The Hops Spot

Go bowling

Local spots: B’ville Sports Bowl; Canastota Hi-Way Bowl; Caz Sports Bowl; Flamingo Bowl; Green Lake Lanes; King Pin Lanes; Lakeview Lanes; Marcellus Lanes; PiNZ Bowl.

Take a day trip to a neighboring town

Local spots: Auburn; Cortland; Oswego; Rochester; Rome; Utica.

Attend a sporting event

Local spots: Syracuse Crunch; Syracuse Mets; Syracuse University; Utica City FC; Utica Comets

How Motherhood Made Me Appreciate My Mom

BY SARAH LYONS

When I look back at each important moment in my life – the day I learned to drive, my graduation, my wedding, the birth of my first child – she is always standing in the background, smiling and cheering me on. More importantly, she was part of the other not-so-monumental moments in my life, like when I got stung by a bee, when the kids teased me, and when I cried my way through my first broken heart. My mom was always there to support me through all the moments, big and small.

Now that I have been a mom for a dozen years, I appreciate my mom so much more

for the things she has always done with little or no recognition. I now realize the sacrifices she made and the monumental effort she put in. Here are just a few reasons why I appreciate my mom a whole lot more since becoming a mom:

For Maintaining

The mother’s work is never done, and it is a thankless job. Taking even one day off means more work for days to come. Moms pick up the same toys, wash the same dishes, and do the same laundry over and over again. Not only do moms maintain the housework, but they also hold a mental

inventory of all items in the home. Most moms can recall the location of the baby’s favorite stuffed animal, the toddler’s missing shoe, the library books, the stapler, and any other random item a family member may request at any given time. I appreciate the example of steadfastness that my mom gave me in maintaining our home.

For Managing

As moms, we often feel like we live in our minivans. Moms don’t just transport kids from one activity to the next. They also maintain the family calendar, make appointments, and make sure everyone is

in the right place at the right time with the right gear (musical instrument, snacks, sports gear, sunscreen, backpack – the list goes on). Juggling school and activities in itself is a full time job that my mom (and most moms) manage with ease. I appreciate my mom for being the social planner, taxi driver, and personal assistant to our whole family as we grew up.

For Enduring

The first time I dropped my son off at a babysitter’s and watched him cry and reach for me in the window, my heart broke. As moms, we endure heartache often as we watch our children learn and grow, succeed and fail, and endure illnesses, hurt feelings, and disappointment. Our hearts soar when they meet their goals and sink when things don’t work out. Motherhood is a roller coaster of emotions that us moms withstand without complaint. I appreciate my mom’s strong support of me, even when she was hurting too.

For the Unseen

There are things moms do every day that go unnoticed. Moms make sure the football jersey is clean before the next game, check in on a sick kid during the night, drop off a forgotten lunchbox, put puzzle pieces back where they belong, replace toothbrushes, clean out the pantry, email teachers with concerns, volunteer, cook, shop, and do so many other little things that keep a family going every day. The little things that don’t seem to matter, that most won’t notice, that no one asks for, that moms do just because they want to show their love for their family. I appreciate my mom for all the things she has done that I never thought to thank her for.

For Loving Me Anyway

Moms love their kids through tantrums, potty training, backtalk, and rebellion. There is no doubt that raising kids is trying on patience, but moms have a way of letting us know that no matter what mistakes we make, they will be there to catch us when we fall. I appreciate my mom for loving me even when I was unlovable.

For Letting Me Go

When you become a mother, you are the center of your child’s world. You feed them, change them, and comfort them. The more they grow, the more independent they become. While this is something to celebrate, it can be heart wrenching to loosen the grip on a child and trust them to manage life and all of its challenges alone. It’s scary and new and feels more like a loss of control than anything else, but as you watch your child take on life’s challenges, it can be a great source of pride as well. I appreciate my mom for letting me go, grow, and experience life in my own way.

This Mother’s Day, take notice of the hard work moms do every day. Acknowledge the little things they do, thank them for always being there, and hug them tight before you leave.

MAY 18 @ 10AM-5PM

CNY Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Guide

BRIGHT VISIONS EARLY LEARNING CENTER

Where: 7333 O’Brien Road, Baldwinsville.

More information: brightvisionselc.wixsite.com.

CAZENOVIA CHILDREN’S HOUSE

Where: 2757 US-20, Cazenovia.

More information: cazkids.org.

thegingerbreadhouseofsyracuse.com

JOWONIO SCHOOL

Where: 3049 E Genesee St., Syracuse.

More information: jowonio.org

KID CENTRAL CNY

Where: 7463 Buckley Road, North Syracuse.

More information: kidcentralcny.org

LITTLE LUKES PRESCHOOL

Where: 5820 Heritage Landing Drive, East Syracuse (DeWitt location); 8282 Willett Parkway, Baldwinsville (Radisson location); 10 Burkle St., Oswego (Oswego location); 706 S. 4th St., Fulton (Fulton location).

More information: littlelukes.com.

LIVERPOOL KINDERCARE

Where: 3787 Canvasback Drive, Liverpool. More information: kindercare.com.

MANLIUS PEBBLE HILL SCHOOL

Where: 5300 Jamesville Road, Syracuse. More information: mphschool.org

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF SYRACUSE

Where: 155 Waldorf Parkway, Syracuse. More information: mssyr.org

NORTH SYRACUSE EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Where: 205 S. Main St., North Syracuse. More information: nscsd.org/earlyEducation.

NORTHMINSTER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Where: 7444 Buckley Road, North Syracuse. More information: northminsterecc.com

OUR COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL

Where: Christ Community Church, 3644 Warners Road, Syracuse. More information: ourcommunitypreschool.com

PEACE, INC.

Where: 110 Oswego St., Baldwinsville (Baldwinsville Head Start); 1125 W. Genesee St., Syracuse (Genesee Head Start); 1507 James St., Syracuse (James Street Head Start); 25 North Main St., Jordan (Jordan Elbridge Head Start); 2779 Route 11 N., LaFayette (LaFayette Head Start); 911 Old Liverpool Road, Liverpool (Liverpool Head Start); 175 Hudson St., Syracuse (Merrick Street Head Start);

215 Bassett St., Syracuse (Sumner Head Start). More information: peace-caa.org.

PEANUT BUTTER NURSERY SCHOOL

Where: 126 S. Terry Road, Syracuse. More information: peanutbutternurseryschool.com.

PLAYSCHOOL PRESCHOOL

Where: 408 Pleasant St., Manlius. More information: firstbaptist-manlius.org/playschool.

ROTHSCHILD EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Where: 450 Kimber Road, Syracuse.

More information: rothschildearlychildhoodcenter.org

SACRED HEART PRESCHOOL

Where: 8229 Brewerton Road, Cicero.

More information: sacredheartofcicero.com/preschool.

SKANEATELES EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Where: 1574 Cherry Valley Turnpike, Skaneateles. More information: skaneatelesearlychildhood.org.

SMALL WONDERS DAYCARE CENTER

Where: 960 Salt Springs Road, Syracuse.

More information: elmcrest.org/early-education.

THE VILLAGE NURSERY SCHOOL

Where: 310 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville.

More information: thevillagenurseryschool.com.

TOGETHER WE GROW

Where: 7020 Manlius Center Road, East Syracuse. More information: togetherwegrowdaycare.com

YMCA OF CENTRAL NEW YORK

Where: 4775 Wetzel Road, Liverpool (North Area Family YMCA); 8040 River Road, Baldwinsville (Northwest Family YMCA). More information: ymcacny.org/programs.

We want all families to know that we are here to provide for them as a whole, meaning the child, their language, their family, support with IEP meetings, and helping them transition to kindergarten.

– Cecelia Clark, Director of the WHOLE ME preschool program

Finding the Right Fit

We asked a few local programs what parents should consider when choosing a preschool or pre-kindergarten. This is what they said:

MANLIUS PEBBLE HILL SCHOOL

• Class size

• Overall approach to education

• Pre-literacy skills development

• Amount of outdoor play time

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF SYRACUSE

• Focus on each child’s individual academic and social development

• High quality Montessori and manipulative materials

• Multi-age classrooms with an emphasis on interpersonal skill building

• Trained Montessori teachers

PEACE INC.

A parent should consider a program that:

• Builds strong social/emotional skills as the foundation for successful relationships

• Encourages learning through play

• Engages families in their child’s learning as parents are their child’s first teacher

• Creates welcoming and safe learning environments, both indoors and outdoors

• Welcomes children with disabilities and builds on the child’s strengths

interact with their peers and deaf role models.”

And Clark said that is really the main mission of the new preschool. “The program itself will be bilingual,” she added. “We’ll be improving their language and helping their families build their language, too.”

Applications are still being accepted. To learn more, visit wholemeinc.com/aboutpreschool.

EXPLORE CNY

Museums, parks, and wildlife adventures await in Chittenango

BY COURTNEY KLESS

Located about 25 minutes east of Syracuse, the village of Chittenango is probably best known as the birthplace of L. Frank Baum, the author who famously penned The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The town celebrates its connection to the iconic tale each year with Oz-Stravaganza, hailed by its website as the “largest and longest running Wizard of Oz themed festival in the world” (this year’s event is scheduled for May 31-June 2). Here are a few other things you can do while you’re in town:

MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL SITES

ALL THINGS OZ MUSEUM

Of course, a visit to Chittenango wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the All Things Oz Museum. Its collection includes movie props and costumes and other pieces of memorabilia.

Where: 219 Genesee St. More information: allthingsoz.org

CHITTENANGO LANDING CANAL BOAT MUSEUM

History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.

Part of Old Erie Canal State Historic Park, the site was once a hub for the construction and repair of cargo vessels. These days, its grounds include a mule stable, a blacksmith, a boat shop, and a reconstructed general store.

Where: 717 Lakeport Road. More information: chittenangolanding.org.

PARKS AND NATURE CENTERS

CHITTENANGO CREEK WALK

When you’re done exploring the museum, make your way back into the village on the Chittenango Creek Walk. It winds alongside Chittenango Creek at times, before ending at Lions Botanical Park

Where: There are various access points. More information: chittenango.org

CHITTENANGO FALLS STATE PARK

If the weather is nice, take the short drive from the village to Chittenango Falls State Park. Don’t miss the 0.36-mile Gorge Trail, which offers scenic views of the park’s 167foot waterfall.

Where: 2300 Rathbun Road (Cazenovia). More information: parks.ny.gov/ parks/130.

ZOOS

THE

WILD ANIMAL PARK

In the words of Dorothy and her friends, see “lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” (plus, many other species) at the Wild Animal Park. There is also a drive thru option if you’d rather stay in the car.

Where: 7621 Lakeport Road. More information: thewildpark.com

Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times. She lives in Camillus with her husband.

Chittenango Falls State Park. MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. ISTOCK PHOTO

Read the June issue of Family Times to see what town we feature next!

MAY 2024

Please note: This calendar was up-todate at the time of publication. Please call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website to confirm event details.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1

Animal Feeding. 4-4:30 p.m. Watch as snakes, lizards, frogs and fish enjoy their favorite meals. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org

Touch a Truck. 4-7 p.m. Families can see various vehicles up close and learn more about their functions. Mohawk Valley Community College – Utica, 1101 Sherman Drive, Utica. Free. mvcc.edu.

THURSDAY, MAY 2

Art Story with the Utica Public Library. 10:30 a.m. Children ages 6 and under can enjoy a story – then explore the galleries. Munson, 310 Genesee St., Utica. Free.

(315) 797-0000. munson.art.

FRIDAY, MAY 3

See Library & Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, MAY 4

KeyBank Future Innovators: Skills Win! 10-11 a.m. This program for students in grades 6-9 “is designed to connect Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students with skill-based science learning opportunities as well as support and mentorship from scientists and professionals of color in the CNY community.” Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: most.org.

Junior Naturalist Program. 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Each month, families can enjoy themed walks and nature activities. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. oswego.edu/rice-creek.

“I Love My Park Day.” 10 a.m.-noon. Help clean up the outdoor volleyball court

by pulling weeds. A new net is coming! Help the Friends board president weed the nature center gardens and join other members to remove invasive plants. The park will supply tools and gloves, but feel free to bring your own. Water and some snacks will also be provided. Dress for the weather. Clark Reservation, 6105 E. Seneca Turnpike, Jamesville. Registration required: friendsofclarkreservation.org.

Syracuse Maker Faire. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. “Makers,” ranging from crafters to engineers, will showcase their work. Horticulture Building, New York State Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. Tickets at the door: $10/adults; $5/children ages 5-12; free/children ages 4 and under; $30/family (two adults and three children). syracuse.makerfaire.com.

Pay-What-You-Wish-Weekends. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Families can receive paywhat-you-wish admission during the first weekend of each month. Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96), Ithaca. Pay-What-You-Wish. museumoftheearth.org.

Saturday Community Programming – “Make & Take.” 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Families can drop into a clay forming

session. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org.

Music of Video Games. 1 & 2:30 p.m. The Syracuse Orchestra’s string quartet will perform music from Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Final Fantasy and more. Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. $10/adults; $5/college students; fee/children under age 18. syracuseorchestra.org

Cold Show. 2-3 p.m. Attendees will learn about the different states of matter and the impact temperature has on substances. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org.

Saturday Community Programming –Young Poets Club. 2-4 p.m. Attendees ages 12-17 will craft stories and poems inspired by the Everson’s art and explore various creative writing styles. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org.

Sketch and Tell. 2-4 p.m. This art session for teens ages 12-17 is guided by area artists and museum staff and offers analog or digital mediums. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $20. everson.org

SUNDAY, MAY 5

22nd Annual Spring Migration Festival. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate the return of migratory birds with music by Harmonic Dirt; crafters; Page’s live birds of prey; Utica Zoo Mobile; a G&G reptile and wildlife show; chicken BBQ; Wild Ones of Mohawk Valley; New York Pure Producers Maple Experience; children’s nature games and crafts; horse rides (weather-permitting), a guided bird walk and much more. Great Swamp Conservancy, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Admission: $4/adult; $1/ children ages 12 and under; $12/family max. (315) 697-2950. greatswampconservancy.org

talks, entertainment and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Included with zoo admission: $9/adults; $5/seniors (62+) and youth (ages 3-17); free/ages 2 and under. rosamondgiffordzoo.org

Pay-What-You-Wish-Weekends. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Families can receive paywhat-you-wish admission during the first weekend of each month. Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96), Ithaca. Pay-What-You-Wish. museumoftheearth.org

Forest Therapy Walk. noon-2:30 p.m. Attendees ages 14 and up can “immerse themselves in nature and open their senses to the surroundings of the forest.” Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $30. Registration required: baltimorewoods.org

MONDAY, MAY 6

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY 7

Fun and Games. 1-3 p.m. Families can play cards, board games and more. Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. Free. romeart.org/ calendar.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8

Sharing Nature with Your Child. 11 a.m.noon. Children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult, can take part in outdoor and nature-related activities. The theme of this session is “Butterflies & Other Bugs.” Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $6/members; $7/non-members. Registration required: onondagacountyparks.com.

Animal Feeding. 4-4:30 p.m. Watch as snakes, lizards, frogs and fish enjoy their favorite meals. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/ person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 9

See Library & Ongoing Events

FRIDAY, MAY 10

2024 Food Truck Battle. 4-10 p.m. Choose from more than 50 food trucks. The event will also feature yard games, live music, an artisan village and a kid zone. Chevy Court, New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse. Admission: $10/adults ($5/pre-sale); free/ children under age 12. syrfoodtrucks.com/ food-truck-battle.

LGBTQ+ Family Day of Visibility. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This event will celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and feature keeper

Chess for Kids. 3:15-4:45 p.m. Children in grades K-5 can play chess – no experience is required. Tecumseh Elementary, 901 Nottingham Road, Jamesville. $40/session. Registration required: (315) 446-3910 ext. 9. recreation@townofdewitt.com.

Spring Stargazing and Storytelling. 8-9 p.m. Families can learn about constellations during this star-gazing session led by a naturalist. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $6/ members; $7/non-members. Registration required: onondagacountyparks.com.

Kids’ Night Out. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Children ages 6-10 can take a tour of the zoo, play games and more. The event also includes a pizza party. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $40/child (non-members). Registration required: rosamondgiffordzoo.org

SATURDAY, MAY 11

RetroGameCon Junior. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the MOST for an exciting convention of video game free play, cosplay, trivia and more. There will also be kid’s craft activities and crafters/artists. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $14/adults; $12/ youth (2–15) and seniors (65+); free/children under age 2. most.org/retrogamecon.

Coming September 2024: Our Onondaga Hill office is moving to a new, larger, stateof-the-art cancer center in Camillus!

MACNY Future Women in STEM: Design & Build with Tessy. 10-11 a.m. Women from area companies will guide attendees through a hands-on activity. This program is designed for girls in grades 6-8. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: most.org.

Opening Day at Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join the zoo as it begins the 2024 season. Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome-New London Road, Rome. Admission: $10.75 (plus tax)/ adults (16+); $8.75 (plus tax)/ages 2-15; free/children under age 2. fortrickey.com

Saturday Community Programming – “Make & Take.” 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Families can drop into a clay forming session. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org.

Ooey, Gooey, and Slimy. 11 a.m.-noon. Discover Beaver Lake’s ooey, gooey and slimy inhabitants, from worms to snails to fungi. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $2/ members; $3/non-member; $5/vehicle. Registration required: onondagacounty parks.com.

2024 Food Truck Battle. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Choose from more than 50 food trucks. The event will also feature yard games, live music, an artisan village and a kid zone. Chevy Court, New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse. Admission: $10/adults ($5/presale); free/children under age 12. syrfoodtrucks.com/food-truck-battle.

Apple Blossoms, Beer & BBQ. noon-6 p.m. Activities include: wagon rides, music, BBQ and games. Critz Farms, 3232 Rippleton Road, Cazenovia. Free. critzfarms.com

Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org

Sketch and Tell. 2-4 p.m. This art session for teens ages 12-17 is guided by area artists and museum staff and offers analog or digital mediums. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $20. everson.org

SUNDAY, MAY 12

HAPPY

FRIDAY, MAY 17

Telescope Observation Sessions. 10 p.m. Families can view planets, galaxies and more. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. Call after 6 p.m. to confirm the event will take place: (315) 312-6677. oswego.edu/rice-creek.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Saturday Community Programming –Young Poets Club. 2-4 p.m. Attendees ages 12-17 will craft stories and poems inspired by the Everson’s art and explore various creative writing styles.

Peter and the Wolf. 2 p.m. Sergei Prokofiev’s famous Peter and the Wolf is performed by our Wind Quintet, offering this classic “symphonic fairy tale for children.” Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. $10/adults; $5/college students; fee/children under age 18. syracuseorchestra.org.

MONDAY, MAY 13

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY 14

Fun and Games. 1-3 p.m. Families can play cards, board games and more. Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. Free. romeart.org/ calendar.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

Animal Feeding. 4-4:30 p.m. Watch as snakes, lizards, frogs and fish enjoy their favorite meals. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/ person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org

THURSDAY, MAY 16

Movie Night. 6:30-8 p.m. Watch a screening of Moana. A full concession stand will also be available. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $6/person (movie only). (315) 425-9068. most.org

TACNY Junior Cafe Scientifique. 9:3011 a.m. This monthly program for middle-school students features discussions about science, technology, engineering and mathematics with STEM professionals/academics. The topic for May is “Recycling & Composting” with Lisa Piering from OCRRA. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: most.org.

Saturday Community Programming – “Make & Take.” 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Families can drop into a clay forming session. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org.

Ooey, Gooey, and Slimy. 11 a.m.-noon. Discover Beaver Lake’s ooey, gooey and slimy inhabitants, from worms to snails to fungi. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $2/ members; $3/non-member; $5/vehicle. Registration required: onondaga countyparks.com

Reptile Show. 2-3 p.m. Families can learn about reptiles and visit some of the Sciencenter’s scaly residents. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org.

Saturday Community Programming –Young Poets Club. 2-4 p.m. Attendees ages 12-17 will craft stories and poems inspired by the Everson’s art and explore various creative writing styles. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org

Sketch and Tell. 2-4 p.m. This art session for teens ages 12-17 is guided by area art-

ists and museum staff and offers analog or digital mediums. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $20. everson.org.

Sensory Friendly Time. 4:30-8 p.m. The museum turns down the noise, turns off the flashing lights, and makes other accommodations so people with sensory processing challenges can explore the exhibits. There will also be an ASLinterpreted National Grid ExploraDome show at 6:30 p.m. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $5/non-members. (315) 425-9068. most.org

Syracuse Mets vs. Iowa Cubs. 6:35 p.m. Join the Mets as they celebrate Armed Forces Day. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $21-$45. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com

Jurassic Park in Concert. 7:30 p.m. Honoring its 30th anniversary, Jurassic Park comes to life on the stage as we view the complete original film at one of Syracuse’s biggest movie theaters. The Syracuse Orchestra performs John Williams’s entertaining and suspense-filled music live. Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $43-$90. syracuseorchestra.org.

Telescope Observation Sessions. 10 p.m. Families can view planets, galaxies and more. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. Call after 6 p.m. to confirm the event will take place: (315) 312-6677. oswego.edu/rice-creek.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

Syracuse Mets vs. Iowa Cubs. 1:05 p.m. Kids can run the bases after the game. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $21$45. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com

MONDAY, MAY 20

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY

21

Fun and Games. 1-3 p.m. Families can play cards, board games and more. Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. Free. romeart.org/ calendar.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

Animal Feeding. 4-4:30 p.m. Watch as snakes, lizards, frogs and fish enjoy their favorite meals. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Story Hour. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Families can enjoy stories and songs – then check out the museum’s “Kids Corner.” Oneida County History Center, 1608 Genesee St., Utica. Free. (315) 735-3642. oneidacounty history.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

See Library & Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, MAY 25

Be the Microbiologist. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Explore the activities of a microbiologist. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free for participants. $12/adults; $10/seniors (65+). (315) 4259068. most.org.

Saturday Community Programming

– “Make & Take.” 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Families can drop into a clay forming session. Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org

face paintings and caricature drawings – plus live entertainment and food trucks. Centerville Place, 700 South Bay Road, North Syracuse. Free.

Saturday Community Programming –Young Poets Club. 2-4 p.m. Attendees ages 12-17 will craft stories and poems inspired by the Everson’s art and explore various creative writing styles. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $10/family. everson.org

Sketch and Tell. 2-4 p.m. This art session for teens ages 12-17 is guided by area artists and museum staff and offers analog or digital mediums. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $20. everson.org

SUNDAY, MAY 26

See Library & Ongoing Events

MONDAY, MAY 27

MEMORIAL

DAY

Visit the Family Times Community Guide for a list of parades in Central New York

TUESDAY, MAY 28

Homeschool Day. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Homeschoolers can visit the zoo. Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome-New London Road, Rome. Admission: $7/person. fortrickey.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

Animal Feeding. 4-4:30 p.m. Watch as snakes, lizards, frogs and fish enjoy their favorite meals. Sciencenter, 601 1st St., Ithaca. Included with admission: $12.50/ person; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org

Telescope Observation Sessions. 10 p.m. Families can view planets, galaxies and more. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. Call after 6 p.m. to confirm the event will take place: (315) 312-6677. oswego.edu/rice-creek

Ooey, Gooey, and Slimy. 11 a.m.-noon. Discover Beaver Lake’s ooey, gooey and slimy inhabitants, from worms to snails to fungi. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $2/ members; $3/non-member; $5/vehicle. Registration required: onondagacountyparks.com

North Syracuse Family Festival. 11 a.m.5 p.m. Families can enjoy bounce houses,

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Syracuse Mets vs. Buffalo Bisons. 6:35 p.m. Fans will receive $1 admission courtesy of the Mets and SOS. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $1. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

See Library & Ongoing Events

LIBRARY EVENTS

BALDWINSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. (315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

FRIDAY, MAY 10

Drop in Art: Wooden Spoon Characters. 3-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

We’re Gonna Make It: Fairy Light

Constellation Wall Art. 4-5 p.m. Ages 12-15. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Dancing! Moving! Dance Class with Gail’s Little Dancing Pals. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. 6 months-5 years. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

Drop in Art: Spring Crowns. 3-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

SUNDAY, MAY 26

STEAM-Y Sunday: Nail String Art. 1-3 p.m. Ages 10-15. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

COMMUNITY LIBRARY OF DEWITT & JAMESVILLE

5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

MONDAY, MAY 13

Teen Crafts: Bullet Journals. 6-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-17. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

Homeschool Art & Science Club. 1-2 p.m. Grades K-6. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Family Dance Party. 2:30-3:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration requested.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

Family Bird Walk. 9:30-11 a.m. All ages. Free.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Robot Petting Zoo. 6-7 p.m. Ages 4-12. Free.

Click here for more events

ELBRIDGE FREE LIBRARY

241 E. Main St., Elbridge. (315) 689-7111. elbridgelibrary.org

SATURDAY, MAY 4

Pokémon Club. 10:30-11:30 a.m. All ages. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 6

Kids In Motion. 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also May 13, 20 & 27. Ages 1-5. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

LEGO Club. 10:30-11:30 a.m. All ages. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 27

Homeschool Hangout/Crafternoon with Mary. 2-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

Click here for more events

FAIRMOUNT COMMUNITY LIBRARY

406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

MONDAY, MAY 6

Homeschool Learning Lab. 10:15-11 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

MONDAY, MAY 13

Homeschool Exploration Stations. 10:15-11 a.m. Ages 5-12. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 16

Children’s LEGO Challenge. 4-6 p.m. All ages. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 20

Spanish Class. 10:15-11 a.m. All ages. Free.

Click here for more events

FAYETTEVILLE

FREE LIBRARY

300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8

Preschool STEAM: Painted Wooden Flowers. 4:15-5 p.m. Preschoolers and kindergarteners. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Mother’s Day Storytime and Craft. 10:30-11:30 a.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

DIY Stress Relievers. 4-5 p.m. Grades 5-8. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 16

“I Spy” Jars. 4:15-5 p.m. Grades 3-6. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, MAY 17

Teen After Hours: The Hunger Games

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes Watch Party. 5:30-8 p.m. Teens. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

HAZARD BRANCH

LIBRARY

1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. (315) 435-5326. onlib.org

TUESDAY, MAY 7

Teen Craft: Woven Magazine Boxes. 5-7 p.m. Ages 12-18. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Quick Bites: Patriotic Parfaits. 2-3 p.m. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Saturday Stories with Cooper. 10:3011:30 a.m. Ages 3-12. Free.

Family Activity Hour: Fairy Lanterns. 2-3 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free.

Click here for more events

LIVERPOOL

PUBLIC LIBRARY

310 Tulip St., Liverpool. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

Let’s Celebrate! Star Wars. noon-3 p.m. All ages. Free.

THURSDAY, MAY 9

PedalPalooza. 6-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Construct and Create with Play Dough. 1:30-2:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 28

Storytelling for Homeschoolers. 1:302:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

MANLIUS LIBRARY

1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org

SATURDAY, MAY 4

The Kid’s Table: LEGO Stop & Create. 10:30-11:15 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 9

Teen Craft House: Spring is Here! 6:30-7:30 p.m.; also May 30. Teens. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Teen Theatre Intensive – Greek Theatre. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

MAXWELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY

14 Genesee St., Camillus. (315) 672-3661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org

SATURDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Day. 12:30-2:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 7

Tuesday Kids Crafts. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Ages 3-10. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 9

Stories and Sundaes at Charlee’s. 4-4:30 p.m.; also May 23. All ages.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Grab and Go Teen Craft: DIY Pom Pom Wall Hanging. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Grades 6-12. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

NOPL BREWERTON

5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. (315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

MONDAY, MAY 6

Master Your Own Dungeon! 5-7:30 p.m. Tweens and teens. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Young Naturalists: Mischievous Mushrooms. 10-11:30 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

MONDAY, MAY 13

Pokémon Go Walk. 4-5 p.m. All ages. Free.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Anime Watch Party for Teens. 3:30-5 p.m. Ages 11 and up. Free.

Click here for more events

NOPL CICERO

8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. (315) 699-2032. nopl.org

TUESDAY, MAY 21

Tweens and Teens Treat: Mini Cheesecake Bites. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tweens and teens. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

Sensory Play with Help Me Grow Onondaga. 11 a.m.-noon. Babies and toddlers. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 28

Tweens and Teens Creative Writing. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tweens and teens. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

Kids Make: Paper Plate Fish Bowls. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

NOPL NORTH SYRACUSE

100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Watch Party. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 7

Peppa Pig Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

Teens Make Spring Rolls. 6-7 p.m. Grades 5-12. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 21

Drop in Crafts for Kids – Flowers. 3-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 28

Eric Carle Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

Click here for more events

trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. (315) 673-1350. baltimore woods.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to dusk. Throughout the year, visitors can grab their walking shoes and explore about seven miles of well-groomed, flat trails. Trails feature a 900-foot boardwalk, osprey nesting platform, and wetland and grassland restoration areas. The area is a stop for many migratory waterfowl and songbirds; other wildlife include muskrats and beavers. Great Swamp Conservancy, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Free. (315) 697-2950. greatswampconservancy.org.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round); Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (May through November only). Shop seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings, and home decor. Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 2100 Park St., Syracuse. (315) 422-8647.

Spring Fishing. Wednesdays and Saturdays (through May 22), 9-11:30 a.m. Families and individuals can come for a morning of fishing (fishing license not required). Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery, 1672 Route 321, Elbridge. $5/person; free/ ages 2 and under. Preregistration and prepayment required: (315) 451-6249. onondagacountyparks.com

Canoeing & Kayaking. Saturdays and Sundays (May 11-June 16), 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Paddle around Beaver Lake searching for beaver lodges, turtles and herons. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $10/hour of rental. onondagacountyparks.com

STORYTIMES

Baldwinsville Public Library

Storytimes. Drop in Storytime with Mr. KC (ages 2-5): Mondays (except May 27), 10:30-11 a.m. Read and Play Storytime (ages 6-24 months): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. Free. (315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (DeWitt). Storytime with Miss Rachael: Thursdays, 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. (315) 449-2948. barnesandnoble.com.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (New Hartford). Saturday Storytime: Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 4811 Commercial Drive, New Hartford. Free. (315) 768-1075. barnesandnoble.com.

Beauchamp Branch Library Storytimes. Storytime (ages 3 and under): Wednesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3395. onlib.org.

Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville Storytimes. Babies and Books (birth-18 months): Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Story Play (ages 0-5): Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

Elbridge Free Library Storytimes. Story Hour (ages 1-5): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Elbridge Free Library, 241 E. Main St., Elbridge. Free. (315) 689-7111. elbridgelibrary.org

Fairmount Community Library Storytimes. Preschool Storytime (ages 0-5): Tuesdays, 10:15-11 a.m. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes. Storytime & Craft (pre-schoolers): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Toddler Storytime (ages 0-3): Wednesdays, 9:30-10 a.m. Baby Storytime & Playtime (ages 0-18 months): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Family Storytime (all ages): Thursdays (May 2, 16 & 30), 10:30-11 a.m. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Manlius Library Storytimes. Toddler Storytime (ages 0-3): Tuesdays (except May 14), 10:30-11:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime (ages 2.5-5): Wednesdays (except May 15), 10:30-11:30 a.m. Family Storytime: Wednesdays, 6:30-7 p.m. Manlius Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

Maxwell Memorial Library Storytimes. Storytots Story Time (ages 0-3): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. Registration required: (315) 672-3661.

maxwellmemoriallibrary.org

MOST Storytimes. STEM Storytime (ages 2-6): Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-noon. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free with admission: $12/adults; $10/ children (ages 2-11); $5/seniors (65+); free (under 2). (315) 425-9068. most.org

NOPL Brewerton Storytimes. Story Time: Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. (315) 676-7484. NOPL.org.

NOPL Cicero Storytimes. Family Storytime: Thursdays (except May 2), 10-10:30 a.m. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. NOPL.org.

NOPL North Syracuse Storytimes. Storytime with Miss Sarah (preschoolers): Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. NOPL.org

Petit Branch Library Storytimes. Read, Sing, and Play Story Time (ages 1.5-5): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. (315) 435-3636. onlib.org

Skaneateles Library Storytimes. Baby Bounce & Rhyme (0-18 months): Wednesdays, 9:15-9:45 a.m. Read, Sing, Play Storytime (18 month-3 years): Wednesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Story Time for Bookworms (ages 2-5): Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles. Free. (315) 6855135. skanlibrary.org.

Liverpool Public Library Storytimes. Family Storytime (ages 0-5): Thursdays (except May 23 & 30), 10-10:30 a.m. Baby Storytime (birth-18 months): Fridays (except May 3), 10-10:45 a.m. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Parents’ Night Out

FRIDAY, MAY 3

Once. 7:30 p.m.; also May 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 & 19. Syracuse Stage concludes its 50th anniversary season with Once, described by its announcement as a “heartwarming Irish musical.” Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. $29-$94. syracusestage.org

SATURDAY, MAY 4

NightLab: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. 6-9:30 p.m. This event for adults will feature science activities and a screening of The Empire Strikes Back Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $20/person. (315) 425-9068. most.org

THURSDAY, MAY 9

Data Patchwork: Crafting Your Unique Quilt Block with Rachel Ivy Clarke. 6-8 p.m. Make your own fabric art using basic hand sewing skills. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $32/members; $40/ non-members. everson.org

FRIDAY, MAY 10

Music of Bridgerton. 5:30 & 7 p.m.; also May 25. The Syracuse Orchestra will perform music “from and inspired by” the popular show on Netflix. Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. $10/adults; $5/college students; fee/children under age 18. s yracuseorchestra.org.

Wine & Cheese Pairing. 6:30-8 p.m. Enjoy wine and cheese pairings curated by The Curd Nerd and Strigo Vineyards. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $40/members; $45/ non-members. Registration required: onondagacountyparks.com.

MONDAY, MAY 13

MEAN GIRLS . 7:30 p.m.; also May 14. The iconic film comes to life on stage. Stanley Center for the Arts, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $47.35-$110.05. thestanley.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

Beer & Wine Train – Adirondack Railroad. 6:30 p.m. Adults ages 21+ can savor wine and beer aboard a scenic train ride from Utica to Remsen. Union Station, 321 Main St., Utica. $55/first class tickets; $38/coach tickets. adirondackrr.com

TUESDAY, MAY 28

Six. 7:30 p.m.; also May 29, 30 & 31. Broadway in Syracuse wraps up its 2023/24 season with eight performances of Six, which features music from Henry VIII’s six wives. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $39.70-$99.20. nacentertainment.com/ broadway-in-syracuse

Mother’s Day Events

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Mother’s Day Special – Adirondack Railroad. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; also May 12. This round-trip ride from Utica to Remsen will include brunch. Union Station, 321 Main St., Utica. First class tickets: $109/adults (ages 12 and up); $54/children (ages 2-12). adirondackrr. com.

Mother’s Day Sip and Paint. 1-3 p.m. Attendees can create their own painting of the Verona Beach lighthouse. Oneida County History Center, 1608 Genesee St., Utica. $45. oneidacountyhistory.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 12

Mother’s Day Garden Tour. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Families can take a self-guided tour of more than 30 acres of gardens. Food trucks will also be available. Sycamore Hill Gardens, 2130 Old Seneca Turnpike, Marcellus. $15/ages 9 and up; free/ages 8 and under. (315) 673-1350. baltimorewoods.org

Mother’s Day Brunch. 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day with brunch at the zoo. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place,

Syracuse. $35.95/adults; $18.95/children ages 3-12; free/children ages 2 and under. Registration required: rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Mother’s Day at Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit the animals during opening weekend. Admission for mothers is free (but you must purchase one child admission). Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome-New London Road, Rome. Admission: $10.75 (plus tax)/adults (16+); $8.75 (plus tax)/ ages 2-15; free/children under age 2. fortrickey.com

EVENTS

FAMILY TIMES CALENDAR

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National Days May

May 3: National Space Day

May 4: National Star Wars Day

May 5: National Astronaut Day

May 6: National Nurses Day

May 9: National Sleepover Day

May 11: National Miniature Golf Day

May 15: National Chocolate Chip Day

May 18: National Visit Your Relatives Day

May 20: National Streaming Day

May 24: National Scavenger Hunt Day

May 26: National Paper Airplane Day

May 28: National Hamburger Day

Source: nationaldaycalendar.com