How to recycle and donate all your kids’ toys on last year’s wishlist
18 | l aurie Berkner live!
Experience a joyful solo show with the “queen of kids’ music,” performing timeless favorites and fresh hits for the whole family
HOLIDAY
6 | Holiday light Shows
Light up the holiday season with the most magical displays in the area
12 | Family traditions
Family, food, and the ties that bind
20 | Bryant Parks’s Winter Wonderland Returns Holiday shopping, ice skating, and festive foods for the whole family
22 | Holiday Parenting Hacks
Discover clever tips and simple tricks to make decorating, gift-giving, and family fun easier—and more enjoyable—this holiday season.
SpE c IAL cHILD
24 | Success in School
Simple ways to strengthen communication and build confidence
26 | choosing Private Schools for n eurodiverse learners
From tailored instruction to smaller class sizes, explore how private schools help neurodiverse learners succeed
28 | choosing a c aregiver
One mom’s thoughtful process for finding and training the right caregivers for her autistic son
30 | a christmas Spectacular for all Inclusive performances, sensory accommodations, and accessibility features to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday magic
FA m ILY FUN
32 | c alendar
The best family-friendly events in November for Manhattan families
D IRE c TORY
12 | Birthday Party Places on
’Tis the Season...of Change
For my family, fall signifies change — the start of a new chapter, new beginnings, and growth. It’s not only the seasons that change — my youngest turns a year older, and with each birthday that passes, I am faced with the realization that I am no longer mom to two little ones — I’m no longer responsible for a baby, a toddler, a preschooler, or a kindergartener.
I now have to look up to speak to my 13-yearold, and my baby is now an independent 9-year-old with endless energy, a sense of humor, and a lot of opinions. While I am proud to see how they’ve grown up to be strong, intelligent, kind, loving boys, it feels like their childhood came and went as quickly as the seasons. I can still clearly remember the time my eldest showed his then-year-old brother how to launch himself into a pile of freshly raked fall leaves and what pure joy it brought them both—and to me. While it really was not that long ago, it feels like a lifetime. It’s a simple reminder that our time to raise tiny humans may be short, but the memories we make will last for the rest of their lives.
As challenging as it is to find time after the exhaustion of our daily routines, it is important to make as much magic as possible while we have time, which is why we pack each issue with ideas for fun activities and events you could possibly do together. So,
whether you’re celebrating with family, taking in the magic of sparkling holiday light displays, or planning your little one’s next birthday bash, we hope your family makes memories to last a lifetime.
Enjoy every moment,
Tara
Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
Pu B li SH e R : Clifford Luster
eDitoRial DiRectoR: Tara Lustberg
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De P uty eD ito R : Danielle Ramos
e vent S eD ito R : Shara Levine
content e D ito R : Adrienne Farr
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Holiday Light Shows
by NáoSha GreGG & Tara LuSTberG
Few places capture the magic of the holiday season quite like New York. While Manhattan dazzles with festive lights, iconic shows, and awe-inspiring window displays, Rockland, Bergen, Westchester, and the Bronx offer their own holiday magic. From the Bronx Zoo’s glowing lantern trails and the Botanical Garden’s enchanting Holiday Train Show to dazzling drivethroughs and cozy orchard strolls, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the spirit. These beloved light shows and seasonal events offer something special for everyone this holiday season.
Rocklan D
Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
Bergen County Zoo, Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ bergencountyparks.org
Late November to early January
Bergen County Zoo’s “Let It Glow!” lights up Van Saun Park with larger-than-life lantern sculptures and whimsical illuminated displays. Visitors stroll through glowing tunnels, animal figures, and themed installations designed by artisans from Tianyu Arts & Culture. The walk-through event offers a magical, family-friendly outing—especially for younger kids who love animals and color. Advance tickets are recommended, with discounts available for Bergen County residents.
North Pole Airport Light Display
12 Oriole Road, New City, NY
Late November through December This over-the-top residential light show has become a Rockland County favorite. Created by the Cirlin family, the “North Pole Airport” transforms their New City home into a holiday runway complete with synchronized lights, festive inflatables, and whimsical décor that delights visitors of all ages. The display supports local charities
and is typically open on weekend evenings, weather permitting. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged to benefit community causes.
Nyack Holiday Lights Celebration
Main Street, Nyack nyackchamber.org
December 5 at 6 pm
Downtown Nyack ushers in the holiday season with its annual tree lighting and community celebration. The event features live music, performances, and festive decorations throughout Main Street, along with appearances by local performers and Santa himself. It’s a charming small-town gathering perfect for families looking to kick off the holidays close to home. The festivities continue into the evening and admission is free.
Orchard
of Lights at Demarest Farms
244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ
orchardoflights.com
November 22 to December 30
Set on 32 acres at Demarest Farms, this beloved drive-through display transforms the orchard into a glowing wonderland. Families can enjoy a mile-long route of shimmering lights, holiday scenes, and seasonal music— all from the warmth of their car. After the ride, visitors can stop by the farm market for hot cocoa, s’mores by the fire pits, and photos with Santa. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and pricing varies by vehicle size.
We StcH e Ste R Lumina at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
130 Hardscrabble Rd., North Salem luminahm.com
November 21 to December 30
Located in North Salem, Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard’s Lumina: A Magical Light Experience offers a whimsical illuminated trail through an orchard revamped for the holidays—over half a million lights illuminate tunnels, accompanied by themed installations and interactive displays. Guests can warm up over a cup of hot chocolate, light-up wands, and capture memorable photos amid the glow, making it an outing that blends rural charm with festive magic. Online tickets start at $15; pricing varies by date; children age 3 and under are free.
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla wwinterwonderland.com
November 21 to December 31
Westchester County’s Winter Wonderland delivers a festive drive-through holiday light experience. Visitors drive through more than a mile of dazzling displays from the comfort (and warmth) of their car — glowing tunnels, dancing trees, gleaming angels of peace, and a towering 50-foot Christmas tree. The event is well-suited for families seeking something fun, cozy, and low-stress in the evening, with proceeds supporting local parks and children’s
lumina at Harvest m oon Farm & o rchard
health causes. Tickets can be pourchased on Feverup.com, and start at $20 for children ages 5 to 12, and $30 for adults.
A borough tradition, the Bronx Zoo brings back its famed Holiday Lights for the 2025 season. The event transforms the zoo grounds after dark into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through trails lit with millions of twinkling lights and hundreds of animal- and plant-themed lanterns, explore immersive zones like the “Enchanted Sea” with interactive swings and LED floors, watch ice-carving demonstrations, and even ride a holiday train. It’s a vivid and magical experience for families, offering both festive ambiance and the backdrop of wildlife, including themed lanterns. Tickets start at $42 for adults and $27 for children.
Holiday Train Nights at New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx nybg.org/event/holiday-trainshow-2025/holiday-train-nights November 22 to January 10
Celebrated for more than 30 years, the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show combines horticultural artistry and nostalgic charm—and becomes even more enchanting when the lights come on after dark. During Holiday Train Nights, giant model trains weave through nearly 200 handcrafted replicas of New York City landmarks. Guests can stroll the glowing pathways with a festive drink in hand, enjoy live entertainment, and capture picture-perfect holiday moments amid the twinkling lights. Tickets start at $43 for non-members (members receive 20% off), and children under 2 enter free.
Macy’s Herald Square Christmas Windows
Herald Square, 151 West 34th St, Midtown
Late November through December Each year, Macy’s transforms its Herald Square storefront into a whimsical
celebration of the season. Themed window displays feature intricate mechanical scenes, vibrant characters, and heartwarming holiday stories—delighting generations of passersby. Families can stroll along 34th Street to admire the artistry up close, making this a beloved (and completely free) New York City holiday tradition.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Lighting Ceremony
30 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown rockefellercenter.com/holidays/ rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-lighting November 8 to Mid-January; Lighting Ceremony: December 3, 7pm
Few holiday traditions capture New York’s spirit quite like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This year, the Norway Spruce arrives on November 8 from Massachusetts. Towering over the skating rink and framed by the glow of Fifth Avenue, the tree sparkles with more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights and a Swarovski crystal star. The live lighting ceremony on December 3 features musical performances and a dose of New York nostalgia.
RocklanD/BeRgen’S
BEST
Birthday Party Places
Finding the right place to celebrate your child’s big day can turn an ordinary birthday into something truly unforgettable. Whether your little one dreams of a handson art party, an epic play-space experience, or an outdoor adventure, there’s no shortage of creative venues to bring those birthday wishes to life.
We’ve gathered some of the best kids’ birthday party spots in the Rockland County area—each with its own unique charm, from themed entertainment to stress-free all-inclusive packages. No matter where you celebrate, these spots deliver fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Monster Mini Golf is the planetary leader in glow-in-the-dark mini golf every day of the year. They aim to provide an exceptional and engaging family entertainment experience in a unique and fun environment. At Monster Mini Golf, prepare for a monstrous birthday party experience. Their full-service “Memory Makers” will make your child’s birthday an unforgettable experience for not only the little monsters but for all the big monsters as well. Their two-hour events provide nonstop entertainment and engagement with staff who specialize in turning wow moments into lasting memories. From setup to cleanup and everything in between, your dedicated Memory Maker will handle everything for the duration of the event. Monster Mini Golf guarantees a stressfree experience for party parents, at an affordable cost.
New City Bowling and Batting Cages
90 N. Main St, New City 845-634-4977
newcitybowlandbattingcages.com
Looking for a turnkey birthday party where kids will enjoy a fun, physical activity, and where the venue will do all the work? New City Bowling and Batting Cages parties offer either one game (an hour-and-a-half party) or two games (two-hour party), including shoe rentals, pizza, chips, drinks, and paper goods. They handle all food and drink setup and cleanup. Glow Bowling with laser lights is available for Sunday parties. They also feature a full-service bar, snack bar, and five outdoor batting cages. With weekly bowling specials, leagues for different ages and abilities, fundraisers, and corporate events, they offer something for everyone! Check their website for party packages and rates.
Party Mags
631-600-3315
charles@partymags.com
partymags.com
Party Mags services the tri-state area, delivering high-energy entertainment with the latest multimedia technology. Each Party Mags event features Mobile Arcade Gaming Systems equipped with two TVs, dual game consoles, vibrant LED lighting, and double-sided play for nonstop fun. Guests can enjoy top video game consoles, crisp displays, versatile tablets, and immersive virtual reality headsets. From thrilling VR adventures to Fortnite battles and gaming tournaments, Party Mags transforms any occasion into an unforgettable experience. Whether for a birthday, school event, or corporate gathering, Party Mags brings excitement
directly to your venue. Game trucks, bouncy houses, and jumbo games ensure endless fun for guests of all ages—making every celebration truly memorable.
Tumble-Bee Gymnastics is a bright, colorful facility, perfect for any 1- to 12-year-old child’s birthday party. Exciting and energetic instructors will
lead the party while the birthday child and their friends enjoy everything from age-appropriate obstacle courses on the balance beam, trampoline, floor, and bars, to jumping in the bounce house, and ending with parachute games and songs. They will even get to meet the Tumble-
Bee himself! All parties include electronic invitations, paper products, and utensils for the children. The guest of honor will also receive a gift and balloons. In addition to parties and weekly classes, Tumble-Bee also offers drop-offs, open gyms, and special events.
Family Traditions
One clan’s intergenerational Thanksgiving customs
By Drew Kramer
“Lifting a turkey is a big event,” my mother admits. She accepted the responsibility of hosting Thanksgiving this year, a holiday she owned every year since I was a child. Growing up, Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday. My older cousins made their pilgrimage from upstate New York to stay with us for the long weekend. Our family came together from all corners of Long Island to honor a day celebrating gluttony and our country’s complicated colonial history.
Like good Americans, in the kitchen we trust. In the wee morning hours, during the “ugly phase” of the holiday preparation, the ritual dressing of the bird took center stage. “18 pounds of pure poultry,” my mother announced in her annual impersonation of Julia Child, your French chef. As the years went by, the size of the bird ebbed and flowed with the loss and gain of family. In recent years, with the expansion of our modern family to include step-brothers, in-laws, and 10 grandchildren, the invite list hovers around 30.
After raising her hand to host in a family group text, I messaged my mother separately to assure her that I was up to the task if she decided she wasn’t, even the day before. Since moving to suburbia four years ago, I’ve stepped up to bring family together when she could not.
My mother is a caretaker. In the 20 years since my stepfather’s Parkinsons diagnosis, my mother’s capacity to find joy in the manual labor of the holidays waned. “I feel like I have reached a point in my life where I recognize that, mentally and physically, I cannot do what I used to do. My husband is ill. I find myself anxious at the thought of a big event,” she acknowledged. In the irreverent, dark humor we share, she declares, “I pass the torch. The old gray mare ain’t what she used to be.”
When I mention my 30 person holiday guest list, people are shocked by my appetite to take on extra work while raising two young boys. Yes, the torch comes with domestic
responsibility, but with great responsibility comes great purpose. Like my mother, I feel the magic in bringing family together for joy. It is important to me to bring familiar faces and flavors to my table in the name of tradition and kinship. It is important to me to provide a forum for cousins to come together for mischief and forward momentum. If their relationships fade, so too do the ties that connect our people for generations to come.
Someday, when I’ve passed the torch to my children and theirs, I hope they’ll draw from the menu of family recipes that filled our bellies and hearts in the warmest moments of a calendar year: Cousin Dineen’s kugel; my late Aunt Debbie’s carrot soufflé; my mother’s turkey. These are the flavors that bind.
Everyone does their part to keep the party alive. As a spectator, my mother is happy to bring whatever she can to ease the pain of hosting the holidays. She delights in making her signature dishes the family craves without the stress of planning and cleaning. In corners of my basement, I squirrel away folding tables and chairs. I Pinterest compostable tablescapes because I cannot sacrifice style or sustainability, while prioritizing ease in executing a celebration for 30. My family comes with food in hand, rolling up their sleeves to clean a platter and unclog the drain. The
holidays teach me that I am not alone in this. In the wake of Covid isolation, I am a conduit for connection. After years of uncomfortable distance, we are all making up for lost time. In this season of my life, I find purpose in bringing people together. As my Millennial generation grows into middle adulthood, our Boomer parents move into their golden years. This holiday season, many of us are grappling with the weight of the torch we’ve inherited. As a family leader, sandwiched between young children and aging parents, I urge you to rise to the occasion. Fight through the host anxiety, culinary pressure and cleaning exhaustion for the important milestones of the year. Let people bring food and pull up their sleeves in the kitchen. Use paper plates. Ask for help and watch relationships grow through the shared creation of this beautiful moment. When the dishes are cleared, the leftovers stored, and the grandchildren are taking apart your couch to erect a fort, sit back with your wine and know that you too are building something. Feel gratitude and connection to the generations of family that roasted the turkeys that brought all of you to this day. Know that someday, when the pounds of pure poultry become too great for you to carry, you will lean on the foundation you and generations of others established to keep the family flame ablaze.
What To Do with Your Kids’ Old Toys
By BarBara russo
The holiday season is around the corner! It’ll soon be time to check off items on your kids’ wishlists. But in the meantime, you might wonder, “How will we have room for all these new toys?” Don’t fret, because we put together a list of what to do with the old toys they outgrew or just don’t play with anymore. From recycling to donating, these suggestions give beloved toys a second life — in someone else’s home!
Recycling
Mattel PlayBack Program
shop.mattel.com/pages/playback
Do you have Mattel toys to retire? If so, you can send them back to where they were created via the company’s PlayBack program. It allows you to return a wide variety of their branded items, which are then recycled into energy or reused as content in new products. To participate, go to the website and fill out a short form to receive a free prepaid shipping label.
Mr. Potato Head. My Little Pony. Playskool. These are just a few popular Hasbro brands that you can send back as part of the company’s toy recycling program, which is a partnership with the organization, TerraCycle. Once you send back your toys, they repurpose them into new materials and products, including play spaces, flower pots, and park benches.
Spin Master Free Recycling Program spinmasterplaysponsible.com/terracycle Recycling is one smart way to handle outgrown toys. Spin Master, the company behind PAW Patrol and Rubik’s Cube, offers a
free mail-in recycling program in partnership with TerraCycle (similar to Hasbro’s). Check the eligible items list on Spin Master’s site, print a prepaid label, and send your toys in. They’re sorted, cleaned, and melted into hard plastic remolded into new products—think park benches and picnic tables—instead of ending up in a landfill.
Stuffed Animal Box
terracycle.com/en-US/pages/zerowaste-box-faq
Your kids aren’t playing with their stuffed animals anymore, but it might seem horrifying to think of these once-beloved plush companions winding up in the trash.
Well, there’s good news: They don’t have to! You can purchase a TerraCycle Zero Waste Box (prices start at $110), fill it with your stuffed animals, and send them out. The toys are then sorted and processed into raw materials used to make new products.
If your kids are ready to move on from their LEGOs, you can pass forward these muchloved toy bricks to kids in need. Just box up your bricks, print out a label, and ship them out. Kids will get a box filled with a variety of bricks and elements to play with, as well as a
cool activity booklet with some fun building activities to try out!
Givin G Back Charities
If you’re looking for more answers on what to do with your kids’ old toys, consider donating them to charity! Many charities, such as Goodwill and The Salvation Army, will resell your donated items and use the money to support their causes if you have a new, unwrapped toy you’d like to give. It’s run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, and its mission is to bring Christmas joy to kids who are economically disadvantaged.
Homes and Shelters
Those beautiful dolls in your child’s old toy chest will almost certainly bring joy to children going through a difficult time. Consider calling local children’s and women’s shelters to see if they’re accepting toys, and if so, ask how you can go about donating.
Religious Organizations
Consider contacting churches, synagogues,
Ways to Recycle Other Items
Now that you have a few tips on what to do with your kids’ old toys, here are a few bonus ideas for recycling other household items, too:
Umbrellas: Broken or unwanted umbrellas can be upcycled into everyday items like tote bags, and the metal spokes can be recycled at a scrap metal facility.
Pet food bags: Once empty, pet food bags can be used as
and other religious organizations to see if they know of any families in need who can use toys.
Stuffed Animals For Emergencies (SAFE)
This wonderful organization provides
trash bags.
Paint: Through the PaintCare program, many stores will accept unwanted paint to give away, sell, or reuse, which are preferred methods over recycling. Fewer resources are utilized, allowing local communities to benefit from free or low-cost paint. Check out paintcare.org for a store locator and instructions on how to make your donation.
comfort for children in traumatic or emergency situations through donations of stuffed animals, blankets, books, children’s clothes, and baby items. This beautiful mission allows you to donate items so they can be used to comfort the kids who need them most.
Laurie Berkner’s Friendly World
A warm, high-energy concert where kids lead and parents enjoy the ride
by aDrieNNe Farr
Laurie Berkner is a pioneering children’s singer-songwriter, author, and live performer with over 25 years of family music and over 1.7 billion streams. Her many accolades include being the first recording artist to appear in a music video in the Noggin and Nick Jr. stratospheres, developing a Universal Kids series, and authoring books for Simon & Schuster.
Throughout high school and college, Berkner sang in choirs and performed in bands and musical theater. After graduating from Rutgers University, she spent a decade as a preschool music specialist in New York City, learning the rhythms of real kids in real rooms. She didn’t plan to make children’s records, but she was inspired by her time with them, and it became the perfect way to use her talents for something she felt was important and rewarding. She says, “I wanted to create songs that matter for children.”
That intent threads throughout her albums, picture books, Off-Broadway children’s musicals, TV shows, and audio projects.
i nside the l aurie Berkner Show Berkner doesn’t just play a set — she builds a friendly world where families can sing, stomp, and have a blast. When you go to one of her shows, you might see a sparkly drum kit, egg shakers, and her guitar waiting at the center. You may see holiday lights. Whatever the setup is, the stage is always bright and welcoming. Berkner comes out in sneakers, waves like she’s greeting old friends, and starts to strum. The room shifts from watching to doing. Her motions are big and expressive, capturing the attention of kids (and adults) in the audience. Berkner’s band keeps a happy beat that invites all to bounce, march, and move.
One of the songs you’re sure to hear is “The Goldfish (Let’s Go Swimming),” an adorable tune about fish who have to keep reminding themselves that they’re fish. It usually has kids jumping and dancing as it cues the sounds of strokes and splashes. The audience becomes
a gentle ocean — parents do lazy breaststrokes, babies flap starfish hands — then the punchline dropss and laughter erupts from everyone in attendance.
The show keeps folding kids into the action. For “Pig on Her Head,” she wears a plushie as a hat and looks out into the crowd to joyously converse with kids about what plushies they’ve brought to the show. She then incorporates their little buddies into her song. “We Are the Dinosaurs” builds a mini parade where kids “march, march, march” and let out a huge communal roar that even too-cool older siblings can’t resist.
Between songs, Berkner interacts with the crowd the way a teacher chats with kids during circle time: quick call-and-response, eye contact that reaches every row and improv when a kid blurts out something extraordinary. If a
little one gets overwhelmed, Laurie can soften the sound and slip into a lullaby moment like “Moon, Moon, Moon,” a beautiful song that she sings in a high octave with her bandmates, which relaxes the whole room.
Audiences don’t just watch Laurie Berkner; they become part of her delightful, familyfriendly band. You can experience one of her energetic, interactive shows during one of her upcoming New York shows:
November 8 : Adler Hall at the New York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 West 64th St., Manhattan
December 6 : Paramount Theatre, 70 New York Ave., Huntington, Long Island
Deceber 7: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Floor 2, Tarrytown
Visit laurieberkner.com to learn more.
Photo by Jayme thornton
A Revolutionary Family Weekend in Central MA
Hands on History Kids Will Love
OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE STURBRIDGE, MA
This living history museum recreates rural New England life in the early 1800s, and hosts reenactments and demonstrations year-round.
AMERICAN HERITAGE MUSEUM HUDSON,
MA
A unique chance to interact with exhibits featuring tanks, military vehicles, and aircraft spanning nearly 100 years under one roof.
Stays
WELLSWORTH HOTEL
SOUTHBRIDGE, MA
Wellsworth Hotel offers modern hotel rooms and amenities, while reflecting 160 years of heritage as American Optical Co.’s headquarters.
THE PUBLICK HOUSE HISTORIC INN
STURBRIDGE, MA
Stay in gorgeously perioddecorated rooms and dine at this historic 1771 inn & country lodge where the Revolutionary -era travelers once visited.
SAMUEL SLATER EXPERIENCE WEBSTER, MA
America’s Industrial Revolution in New England comes to life with storytelling told through holograms, interactive areas and iconic large-scale displays.
MUSEUM OF WORCESTER WORCESTER, MA
Free to visit through 2025, this museum has a great children’s area that includes a play diner, general store, and assembly line, all connected to local history.
Revolutionary Outings
SALISBURY MANSION 1 WORCESTER, MA
Salisbury Mansion tells the story of Worcester, was built in 1772, and was the scene of preparations for the ‘Worcester Revolution’ of 1774.
AMERICAN ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY 2 WORCESTER, MA
Visit a nationally renowned library founded by Isaiah Thomas, housing an 18th-century printing press & Revolutionary War-era materials.
WILLARD HOUSE & CLOCK MUSEUM 3 GRAFTON, MA
Visit the birthplace and original workshop of the Willard clockmakers, a significant three-generation legacy founded in 1766.
WATERS FARM 4 SUTTON, MA
Featuring a 1757 homestead, the open-air, living-history museum on 120 acres of farmland offers a bucolic escape with colonial significance.
OPTICAL HERITAGE MUSEUM 5 SOUTHBRIDGE, MA
The region’s deep-rooted innovations in optics—shaping millions of lives —are showcased through thousands of items in the museum’s collection.
Bryant Park Transforms!
Seasonal favorite kicks off the holidays in style in Midtown
By Danielle Ramos
You know the holiday season’s right around the corner when the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park returns! This year, it opened in late October, kicking off one of NYC’s most beloved family traditions. The park’s annual transformation includes festive, open-air holiday shopping, free ice skating, and plenty of food and drink.
Whether you’re picking up handmade gifts, teaching your kids to skate, or just enjoying the lights with a cup of cocoa, the Winter Village is a fun day out right in the heart of Midtown. And, of course, New Yorkers already know that while there are so many bigger parks, Bryant Park is truly one of the most beautiful parks in the city.
The Holiday Shops: A Festive and Unique Shopping Experience
With so many big stores offering the same generic-looking gift items, the shopping alone is worth the trip. The Holiday Shops by Urbanspace bring together over 190 local and international vendors, offering everything from handmade jewelry and art prints to gourmet snacks and unique stocking stuffers. Plus, it feels like wandering around through a European market, right in the heart of Manhattan.
A few highlights from this year’s lineup include:
Baked by Melissa : New to the Holiday Shops, enjoy handcrafted mini cupcakes loved nationwide for their creative twists on classic flavors. These are those bite-sized cupcakes everyone fights over at parties!
Buttermee Pancakes : Also new to the market this year, these mini pancake bites are as delicious as they are meaningful, with a portion of proceeds supporting mental health programs.
Cheese Wheel Pasta : Back by popular demand, serving creamy pasta spun to perfection inside a giant wheel of cheese (yes, it’s as good as it sounds).
Pinky Pilots : Affordable, feel-good art prints and originals that brighten any
space and bring positive energy to your home and heart!
Soap for Sinner s: All-natural soaps and apothecary goods that make thoughtful gifts or a little treat for yourself. Free from preservatives, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, this new addition for 2025 delivers clean skincare for everyday grime.
Visitors can check out the Bank of America Small Business Spotlight, where you’ll find a rotating selection of local entrepreneurs selling everything from ceramics to greeting cards in rent-free booths designed to help NYC small businesses shine. This year features Brooklyn’s Tribe & Oak (through Nov. 11), Staten Island’s JAY CERAMICS (Nov. 12–30), Brooklyn’s Smar Art (Dec. 1–16), and Manhattan’s Vanilla Joe & Co. (Dec. 17– Jan. 4).
You Gotta Check Out Midtown’s Free Ice Skating Rink At the center of all the holiday activity and
shopping is The Rink, New York City’s only free-admission ice skating rink. Bring your own skates or rent a pair. Kids can use skate aids, lessons are available, and Bank of America cardholders even get 10% off skate rentals when booking online. There will also be special skating performances throughout the season.
When you need a break from the cold, head to The Lodge, a cozy indoor spot with comfort food, hot drinks, and seasonal cocktails.
More to Come at Winter Village
This Season
Later in the season, keep an eye out for Santa’s Corner, Cozy Igloos, and everyone’s favorite, Bumper Cars on Ice, for both kids and adults.
The Winter Village runs until March 1, 2026, at Bryant Park (between 40th and 42nd Streets on Sixth Avenue).
For up-to-date rink and shop hours, visit wintervillage.org.
Photo by Colin Miller
Holiday Hacks for Busy Parents
By Taryn MohrM an
The most wonderful time of the year is also the busiest time of year, especially for parents with tiny tots at home. There’s decorating, cooking, baking, gift buying and wrapping–and that’s on top of keeping up with already-packed kid schedules and household to-dos. So finding a shortcut or clever hack that’s good–and we mean really good–is a huge gift in and of itself.
To save you sleigh loads of sanity this busy season, we’re wrapping our favorite holiday hacks into a saveable, shareable list. Enjoy!
Cup delicate ornaments
There’s the crafted-at-school kind, the keepsake kind and the breakable ball kind, but all three types of ornaments need TLC when it’s time to trim the tree. To keep your decorations in one piece, give little ones a
wide-mouth plastic cup to hold under any breakable ornaments as they walk from storage bin to branch. If securing it in place is a two-hand job, kids can work together by having one child hold the cup underneath and the other fastening the hook in place. Even better, the cups can be used in the container or box to keep delicate ornaments from touching and potentially breaking.
Hot glue your gingerbread house
Gingerbread houses can take hours to set before they’re ready to be decked out in candy. If you’re not prepared to tackle this family tradition in two sessions (as in your kids are melting down because they simply can’t wait to add the gumdrops), you can pull out your hot-glue gun to speed up assembly. Apply a bead of hot glue to the inside corners, waiting for the glue to dry completely on each side before moving on. Once it’s good and sturdy, use the icing to cover up any visible
glue and attach the candies like normal.
Skip the gift tag step
Writing out gift tags can get tedious quickly, not to mention there’s never really enough space. Save yourself a step and frustration by giving each family member their own wrapping paper pattern (or colorway if you need to mix patterns) so you can skip gift tags all together.
Send Santa back with toys
The big guy’s known for delivering new toys to the good boys and girls, but (new) legend has it that he is in need of used toys back at the North Pole so he can recycle the parts in his workshop (wink, wink). When it’s time to make room in your child’s playroom or bedroom for big kid toys, share this story to make it easier to part with what they’ve outgrown.
Email wish list photos
The toy aisle is no place for kids, but
sometimes you’ve got no choice but to tow them along if the holiday shopping is ever going to get done. When your kid starts to whine and plead for you to buy them something ahead of the holiday gift exchange, let them use your phone to take a photo to email to Santa. Type Santa in the TO field (it will bounce back) and later on you can check your sent messages for the product info if you want to wrap it up yourself.
Send your elf on a mission
If your family has an elf on the shelf, chances are you could use a break from thinking of clever places to position it day after day. When this time comes, write out a note that explains to kids that Santa is sending their elf on a special holiday mission and he’ll be back just as soon as possible so you can enjoy having one less thing to do for a few days.
Stash a blanket the car
When the weather drops, it can’t hurt to have a warm blanket handy to put over kids before the car reaches a more comfortable temperature, but it’s also hugely helpful for
hiding gifts. Keep a large one in your trunk so if you need to do a store pickup on the way to school pickup, you can without spoiling any surprises. Just throw the blanket over the gifts and your kids will be none the wiser.
Make festive pancakes
Want to add some holiday cheer to your breakfast routine? When you’re not baking with them, metal cookie cutters are a quick way to make your pancakes more merry. Spray the cutters with non-stick cooking spray before placing them on the griddle, then pour in your pancake mix and remove the shapes when you’re ready to flip.
Pre-load the batteries
Given all the toys that spin, flash, and move, stocking up on batteries ahead of the holiday season is a must these days. Instead of just keeping them handy, consider putting them in the toy before you wrap it. Your kids will love that things work straight out of the box and you’ll save time fumbling with a tiny screwdriver when you really just want to be enjoying their smiling faces.
Schedule family traditions
This may sound like work, but really it’s a way to ensure you all enjoy the fun. Make your list of holiday season must-dos (think ice skating, gingerbread house building, cookie baking, and more), then decide on the best day and week for each activity and add it to your calendar. With a plan in place you’re less likely to be left with regrets on January 1st.
Track gifts year over year
Start a note in your phone that you can use to keep track of what you’re giving to each family member. Make a section for gift ideas then mark off when you’ve actually purchased something. Not only will this help you remember what you ordered bleary eyed at 12am last Sunday night, it also gives you a record that you can look back on each year.
While the kids probably aren’t thinking about what they unboxed last holiday, your MIL may appreciate not opening slippers from the kids for three years running. It’s also a way to come up with gift ideas. That custom blanket you gave your aunt two years ago could be the perfect gift for your nanny this year.
Set Up for Success
How to help your differently-abled child thrive in school
BY NEW YORK FAMILY
Good communication between parents and teachers is key to every child’s success—but it’s essential when your child has a learning difference. Staying informed, maintaining open communication, and helping your child feel empowered can make the school year smoother and more rewarding for everyone involved. Here are some tips on how to set your child up for success.
1. Know Your Rights—and Speak Up Parents are entitled to clear information about special education services and supports. Understanding these rights helps you advocate confidently for your child. When attending meetings—such as the Committee on Special Education (CSE), annual reviews, or parent-teacher conferences—don’t hesitate to ask questions if something isn’t clear. Staying informed puts you and your child in the
best position to ensure their needs are met.
2. Keep Communication Flowing Regular, honest communication with your child’s teachers makes a huge difference. Long Island co-teachers Kathy Devine and Emily Cole emphasize that parents of students with special needs should stay in close contact. “We like to know early if something changes at home—like a new medication or a shift in routine,” Cole says. Devine adds, “If your child is struggling with homework, let us know right away instead of waiting until the end of the trimester.”
Write a short letter to your child’s teacher at the start of the school year describing their strengths, challenges, and what strategies work best. It helps teachers understand your child as an individual from day one.
3. Understand IEP Goals
Take time to learn your child’s Individual-
ized Education Plan (IEP) goals and how they differ from general classroom goals. It’s normal for students to progress differently across these areas, but knowing what each set of goals measures will help you track growth more accurately—and celebrate progress in all forms.
4. Involve Your Child in the Process
Encouraging your child to participate in discussions about their learning plan can build confidence and self-advocacy skills. Cassie Reilly, a Transition Coordinator at a Long Island high school, suggests involving children in IEP meetings when possible. “Being open with kids about their diagnosis helps them see that their learning difference doesn’t define them,” she says. It’s about giving them a voice in their own education.
5. Embrace Your Child’s Unique Path
Every child’s journey looks different. Reilly notes that children may behave or perform differently at school than at home, and that’s okay. Success might not always follow a typical path—but with ongoing communication and understanding, parents and teachers can work together to find what works best for each child.
Why Some Families Turn to Private Schools for Learning Differences
For children with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or anxiety, personalized instruction can unlock success
BY TARA LUSTBERG
For many New York–area families, choosing the right school is rarely simple. But when a child has learning differences, whether it’s ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or anxiety, that search can feel overwhelming. Even in districts with strong special education programs, parents often find that large class sizes, limited resources, and inconsistent support make it difficult for their child to thrive. That leads some to the realization of exploring private schools explicitly designed for students who learn differently.
Despite dedicated teachers’ good intentions and hard work, resources are stretched thin within the NYC public school system. Classrooms include students with a wide range of educational needs, and individualized attention can be difficult — if not impossible — to sustain. When a student’s needs aren’t fully met in a traditional classroom environment, some parents begin exploring alternative options for neurodiverse learners, like schools that center their teaching philosophy on how each child learns best.
A Tailored Approach
Private schools that specialize in learning differences take a different approach to classroom instruction. Unlike traditional schools that expect neurodiverse students to adapt to conventional learning methods, specialized schools design their curricula around each student’s unique needs. This individualized model may mean breaking lessons into shorter, more manageable steps, using multisensory techniques, pacing instruction according to the individual’s needs, and measuring progress by growth rather than standardized benchmarks.
These schools often maintain small classes — sometimes with fewer than 10 students per teacher — allowing teachers to devote more one-on-one time to each child
to familiarize themselves with their interests, abilities, and challenges. For children who struggle with attention or anxiety, the quieter, more predictable environment can reduce stress and improve focus.
Focus on Emotional Well-Being
Often, these schools place a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and executive functioning skills, which help students manage frustration, stay organized, and advocate for themselves. Instead of viewing behavioral differences as disruptions, teachers are trained to recognize how overstimulation and frustration manifest and respond to help students refocus and regulate.
This can be transformative for a student who has gone from falling behind or feeling misunderstood to being engaged, capable, and confident. The feeling of belonging rather than feeling singled out can be as valuable as the curriculum itself.
Navigating the Path—and the Price
For many families, moving from public to private school can be complicated. When a public school cannot adequately meet a child’s needs, some parents look to private
schools for tuition coverage through the city’s Department of Education (DOE) reimbursement process. However, this process can be lengthy and often requires legal advocacy, documentation, persistence, and time.
But, while tuition costs are high, families who are able to make the investment (or effort of pursuing reimbursement) say it is worth it for their child’s long-term confidence and well-being.
Lessons for Every Classroom
In classrooms where individuality is embraced, mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, and emotional well-being is seen as essential to success, children who once struggled to fit in finally begin to flourish. The lessons from these specialized environments could inspire all public and private schools to rethink how they support the diverse ways children learn.
As awareness and understanding of neurodiversity grow, more families and educators are recognizing that traditional learning doesn’t work for every student. For many, finding the right school isn’t just about academics—it’s about helping their child discover their strengths, build selfesteem, and rediscover the joy of learning.
Explore Rochester’s incredible family-friendly attractions, from parks to interactive museums and historic sites. With festivals year-round and opportunities to enjoy theater, sporting events, and more, there’s something for every age and interest. Did we mention the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games? Rochester offers endless opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime!
Learn more at visitrochester.com
Choosing a Caregiver for My Special Needs Child
A mother shares her comprehensive approach to interviewing, vetting, and preparing caregivers for her autistic son
BY DANA GREENBERG
My son has autism, so when I need to leave him with a babysitter, I’m incredibly picky about who that person will be. A dozen worries run through my head: Who can I trust with him, especially since he has limited verbal skills? Will the sitter understand his wants and needs? Will he be happy and engaged while I’m gone? Over the years, I’ve developed a system for choosing babysitters that has worked well for us. Here’s how.
Where to Find Babysitters
There are some great places you might not have considered. I contact local specialeducation schools and therapy centers; social workers, psychologists, teachers, and therapists are excellent resources. Tell them exactly the type of person you seek and describe your child’s age and needs. Many staff members are looking for extra work, and these programs often circulate caregiving opportunities internally. A big advantage: these candidates frequently already have background checks or fingerprinting done by their employers.
Referrals from other parents of children with special needs are also invaluable. Other parents know what to ask and can give honest feedback about whether someone would be a good fit.
Meet as Many Candidates as Possible
I like to meet as many potential sitters as possible. Different personalities work for various situations. I have sitters I prefer for at-home care and others I want to bring on outings. And life happens — you need backups. It’s not unusual to call several people before getting a yes, so build a list of trusted candidates.
The Initial Interview
I meet new candidates alone, without my son present. He has strong receptive language, and I don’t like to discuss him in front of him. In that first meeting, I shared
everything: routines, likes and dislikes, what bowl he prefers for snacks, and that he likes ice cubes in his water — every detail matters. I also cover pay and invite candidates to ask questions. This meeting helps me decide whether to move forward.
Checking References
After the initial interviews, I always check the references of those I’m seriously considering — past families, supervisors, or coworkers. Have your questions ready and ask about interactions with children, handling difficult situations, punctuality, and reliability. You should feel free and comfortable to ask anything; after all, this is your child’s welfare we are talking about. Ask specific questions about the candidate’s interactions with children, how they’ve handled certain situations, and the like. I always like to ask about punctuality, too. This is the opportunity to get a feel for whether this person may be the right fit and if you want to continue moving along with them.
Introducing Your Child
Assuming the references check out, I will schedule a meeting between the candidate and my child at home. I will prepare my son in advance by telling him the person’s name and that they are coming over to see where
he lives and what he likes to play with. I show the potential caregiver around my home, pointing out where my son likes to hang out, where his favorite snacks are, and going over routines in detail. Watching how they interact gives me a strong sense of whether they’re a good match.
Joining us for an Outing
If I am hiring a sitter to take my son out, I invite them on an outing first. Being outside requires different skills: safety vigilance, managing unexpected behaviors, and staying calm if he won’t hold a hand or chases birds. I guide them through the outing and ask how they would handle particular scenarios.
Assessing the Sitter’s Commute
Where a sitter lives is important to me. Just because you are identifying candidates via a school or center does not necessarily mean they live nearby. I confirm that candidates can reliably get to and from my apartment independently and understand travel time. You don’t want to scramble to pick someone up or drop them off late at night.
Every question matters, and no detail is too small. Make lists, check references, and do what it takes to put your mind at ease — when you know your child is in the right hands, you can go out and truly relax.
Where the mountains wear blankets of silent, untouched warming winter wanderers. Where time seems to waver between nostalgia and now. For generations, families and
Photo Credit: Gore Mountain | Historic photo courtesy of Chapman Museum
Where the mountains we Wh wandere n
A Spectacular Holiday Season for All
This year’s Christmas Spectacular brings extra magic with a full slate of accessible offerings
By Jana Beauchamp
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Radio City Music Hall, where the Rockettes light up the stage for the 2025 Christmas Spectacular. This season is extra special as the Rockettes celebrate their 100th anniversary with a full lineup of accessibility offerings, ensuring every guest can experience the magic of Christmas. Families can look forward to the production’s third annual sensoryfriendly performance in partnership with the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), along with select shows featuring open captioning, audio descriptions, American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, and more.
The Christmas Spectacular’s third annual sensory-friendly performance, presented in partnership with TDF, will take place on November 9 at 10 am. This year’s production features thoughtful modifications such as softer stage lighting, lowered audio levels, and additional house lighting to create a more comfortable experience. Guests can also visit Radio City Music Hall’s Grand Lounge, which will be transformed into a sensory-safe
space with soft seating and fidget tools to help guests reorient if needed. Dedicated staff members from TDF and Radio City Music Hall, trained in sensory needs, will be on-site to provide support throughout the event.
Radio City Music Hall and The Christmas Spectacular offer a variety of accessibility services to ensure more guests can experience the joy and thrills of the show. VITAC closed captioning, assistive listening devices, and relay calls made through a TTY machine are available at every performance. In addition, ASL interpreters will be present at four performances this season: Saturday, Nov. 15, and Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 11 am; Sunday, Dec. 7, at 6 pm; and Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 8 pm. An open-captioned performance will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 5 pm, and an audio-described performance will be offered on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 5 pm.
This season, Radio City, in partnership with KultureCity, the world’s leading nonprofit dedicated to sensory accessibility and acceptance, has unveiled the newly renovated Chris & Veronica Jackson Sensory Room. Open during all public events, the room offers
a calm and welcoming retreat for anyone who may feel overwhelmed by the excitement of the festivities. Thoughtfully designed with the holiday spirit in mind, it features adjustable lighting, cozy seating, calming visuals, and full wheelchair accessibility. Families can also take comfort knowing that sensory bags with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other resources are available at every event, and all guest-facing staff have completed KultureCity training to ensure the magic of the season can be enjoyed by guests of all abilities.
Tickets for the sensory-friendly performance, presented in partnership with TDF, are now available at tdf.org/rockettes.
For more information on these and other accommodations, including accessible and companion seating, please contact the Accessibility Services Department at accessibilityservices@msg.com or the Accessibility Services FAQ page. Tickets for the 2025 Christmas Spectacular can be purchased in person at the Ticketmaster Box Office at Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave. between 50th and 51st Streets) and online at rockettes.com/christmas.
fall family fun d fa a fafa f
visit wcs.education/explore
hang out let’s
Make the most of your visit to our WCS Zoos & Aquarium with curated programming for all ages, from workshops for toddlers and tweens to fun events for adults and families.
Back to school may be busy, but WCS Education programs offer the time and space for your family to make memories. See animals up close, explore exhibits, and have fun with themed activities.
calendar
by Shara LeviNe
r ockL a ND
Bear mountain ice Rink
WHen : Nov. 1-March 1, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am – 9:30 pm, Sundays, 10 am – 7:30 pm
WHat: Lace up and bundle up for some cool winter fun on this outdoor ice skating rink.
Want to go?: $5; $10 skate rental. bearmountainicerink.org
“House by the Railroad” Family Day
WHen : Saturday, Nov. 8, 1 –3 pm
WHeRe : Edward Hopper
House Museum & Study Center, 82 North Broadway, Nyack ageS: All
WHat: This community event will include multiple art-making activities for all ages centered around Hopper’s “House by the Railroad”.
Want to go?: Free. 845-358–0774, edwardhopperhouse.org
veteran’s Day Parade & ceremony
WHen : Tuesday, Nov. 11, 11 am – 1 pm
WHeRe : Suffern Village Hall, 61 Washington Ave., Suffern ageS: All
WHat: Honor our veterans at this annual parade followed by a ceremony at Soldiers Monument.
Want to go?: Free. suffernny. gov
Book Party for Sam
Wedelich’s a Quick trip to the Store
WHen : Wednesday, Nov. 12, 6 – 7 pm
WHeRe : Big Red Books, 120 Main St., Nyack ageS: 3 – 8
WHat: Celebrate Sam
Wedelich’s latest book, “A Quick Trip to the Store,” with treats, laughs, and banana bread!
Want to go?: Free. 845875–7707, bigredbooks.net/ events/3764920251112
Friendsgiving at the village Branch
WHen : Friday, Nov. 14, 3 –5 pm
WHeRe : Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw ageS: 5 – 12
WHat: Celebrate Thanksgiving like Charlie Brown with simple crafts, the “traditional” Snoopy feast of jellybeans, popcorn, pretzels, and toast, and watch “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.”
Want to go?: Free. 845-429–3445, haverstrawlibrary.org
Wicked For good Premiere Party
WHen : Friday, Nov. 21, 6 –8 pm
WHeRe : Nanuet Town Centre, 5101 Fashion Drive, Nanuet ageS: All
WHat: Step into the world of Oz with character meet and greets, a live singing performance, crafts, glitter tattoos, and enchanting photo ops.
Want to go?: Free. 845-347–9995, nanuettowncentre.com leave it to Beavers
WHen : Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 – 11:30 am
WHeRe : Hudson Highlands Nature Center Outdoor Discovery Campus, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall ageS: All
WHat: Learn all about New York State’s official mammal— the beaver! Then head out on a
guided nature walk to see how they transform the landscape and control our wetlands!
Want to go?: $16; $14 ages 3-12. 845-534–5506, hhnaturecenter.org
Holiday Bricktacular at legolanD new york Resort
WHen : Nov. 28-Dec. 31; see website for schedule
WHeRe : LEGOLAND New York Resort, One Legoland Blvd., Goshen ageS: 12 and younger
WHat: LEGOLAND® New York transforms into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights, festive shows, and exclusive holiday builds.
Want to go?: Tickets start at $49. 845-410–0290, legoland. com
Breakfast with Santa WHen : Nov. 29-Dec. 24,
Winter Wonderlights annual Holiday light show drive thru in east Brunswick
Saturdays and Sundays, 9 am and 1 pm
WHeRe : Kruckers, 81 Call Hollow Road, Pomona ageS: All
WHat: Join Kruckers for a jolly meal filled with breakfast, laughter, and the chance to meet the one and only Santa Claus!
Want to go?: $45; $25 ages 3-12. 845-354–9832, eventbrite. com
b er G e N
“ let it gloW!” a Holiday lantern Spectacular
WHen : Nov. 6-Jan. 11, Thursdays and Sundays, 4 –8 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 4 – 9 pm
WHeRe : Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus ageS: All
WHat: Enjoy a walk throughout the Zoo with largerthan-life lanterns of animals and nature.
Want to go?: TBA. friendsofbergencountyzoo.org
8th annual Big Santa lighting Featuring Dylan Schneider
WHen : Saturday, Nov. 8, 5 –7 pm
WHeRe : Westfield Garden State Plaza, One Garden State Plaza, Paramus ageS: All
WHat: This celebration features rising country sensation Dylan Schneider performing his viral hit “Ain’t Missin’ You,” along with a dazzling drone light show, dance performances, and more.
Want to go?: Free. westfield. com
Family Scavenger Hunt
WHen : Sunday, Nov. 16, 11 am – 1 pm
WHeRe : Flat Rock Brook, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood ageS: All
WHat: Enjoy a day of animals, hikes, and scavenger hunt fun!
Want to go?: $13; $40 for a family of four. 201-567–1265, flatrockbrook.org
Santa Photo experience
WHen : Nov. 21-Dec. 24; see website for schedule
WHeRe : The Shops at Riverside, 390 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack ageS: All
WHat: Whether it’s an annual tradition or first-time meeting Santa, you’ll want a photo to capture the moment!
Want to go?: Photo packages start at $39.99. 201489–2212, simon.com
Winter Wonderlights
annual Holiday light Show Drive thru
WHen : Nov. 21–Dec. 28, Daily, 5:30 – 10 pm
WHeRe : Winter WonderLights, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick ageS: All
WHat: Celebrate the season with breathtaking holiday lights, festive music, and holiday spirit at New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light
show drive-thru.
Want to go?: $35-$45 per car. winterwonderlightshows. com
ninja kidz live: infinite Possibilities
WHen : Friday, Nov. 21, 7 pm
WHeRe : Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood ageS: 5 – 12
WHat: The NINJA KIDZ are leaping out of your screens and onto the stage for this live action adventure filled with audience participation, physical challenges, games, and epic battles.
Want to go?: Tickets start at $49. 201-227–1030, bergenpac. org
orchard of lights
WHen : Nov. 22-Dec. 30; see website for schedule
WHeRe : Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale
ageS: All
WHat: Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of brilliant holiday light displays, warm up by the fire pit, take pictures with Santa, and listen to his singing reindeer.
Want to go?: $35 per car. orchardoflights.com
collect-a- con
WHen : Nov. 22-23, Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm
WHeRe : New Jersey Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison
ageS: All
WHat: The nation’s largest trading card, anime, and pop culture convention is coming to town with panels, cosplay, celebrity guests, vendors, and more.
Want to go?: Tickets start at $40 for adults; free admission for children 7 and younger. collectaconusa.com
Holiday Bricktacular at legoland new york resort
calendar
Black Friday
WHen : Friday, Nov. 28, 7 am – 12 pm
WHeRe : Bergen Town Center, Route 4 East & Forest Ave., Paramus
ageS: All
WHat: This Black Friday is filled with great deals, free giveaways, and non-stop entertainment traveling throughout the mall including a stilt walker, balloon artist, and carolers.
Want to go?: Free admission. 201-845–4050, bergentowncenter.com
Bergen county’s Winter Wonderland
WHen : Nov. 28-Jan. 4 Daily, see website for schedule
WHeRe : Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus ageS: All
WHat: Bergen County’s premier winter event features ice skating, a kids ice rink, a heated hospitality tent, carousel and train rides, food trucks, and more.
Want to go?: TBA. bergencountywinterwonderland.com
N yc
Snow
White
WHen : Nov. 1 – 9, Saturdays and Sundays, 12 – 1:15 pm and 4 – 5:15 pm
WHeRe : The New Victory Theater, 209 W 42nd St., Midtown
ageS: 6 and older
WHat: This new take on a classic tale brings a witty warmth to the Grimm classic and reminds us that even the wicked deserve a chance at redemption.
Want to go?: $25. 646-223–3010, newvictory.org
christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio city Rockettes
WHen : Nov. 6 – Jan. 4; see website for schedule
WHeRe : Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas, Midtown ageS: All
WHat: Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the worldfamous Radio City Rockettes as this milestone season promises to be more unforgettable than ever before.
Want to go?: Tickets start at $65. rockettes.com
Big apple circus at lincoln center
WHen : Nov. 7 – Jan. 4, see website for schedule
WHeRe : Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center, Amsterdam Ave. & W 62nd St., UWS
ageS: All
WHat: The magic of the Big Apple Circus is back with unforgettable feats of strength and skill, this all-new show brings the magic of the circus to life.
Want to go?: Tickets start at
$37. bigapplecircus.com
new york city veterans Day Parade 2025
WHen : Tuesday, Nov. 11, 12:30 – 3:30 pm
WHeRe : Parade begins at 26th St. and 5th Ave., Flatiron District
ageS: All
WHat: The nation’s largest Veterans Day Parade will commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s military by celebrating the founding of the Army, Marine Corps, and Navy!
Want to go?: Free. uwvc.org
Holiday train Show
WHen : Nov. 15 – Jan. 11, Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am –6 pm
WHeRe : New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park
ageS: All
WHat: The timeless magic of rail travel fills NYBG with seasonal cheer as model trains travel famous bridges and familiar city settings, bringing nearly 200 twinkling landmark
replicas to life.
Want to go?: $27-$39. 718817–8700, nybg.org
Bronx Zoo Holiday lights
WHen : Nov. 21 – Jan. 4; see website for schedule
WHeRe : Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park ageS: All
WHat: Millions of lights and hundreds of illuminated animals transform the Zoo into an immersive experience, featuring hands-on activities, holiday entertainment, and delicious treats.
Want to go?: Tickets start at $26.95. bronxzoo.com
macy’s thanksgiving Day Parade
WHen : Thursday, Nov. 27, 8:30 am – 12 pm
WHeRe : Parade begins at Central Park West & 77th St., Upper West Side ageS: All
WHat: This iconic parade includes magnificent floats, marching bands from across the country, and enormous balloons featuring favorite characters, old and new.
Want to go?: Free. macys. com
nutcR ackeR! magical christmas Ballet
WHen : Friday, Nov. 28, 7 – 9 pm
WHeRe : The United Palace, 4140 Broadway, Washington Heights ageS: All
WHat: The show uniquely blends classical ballet and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with jaw-dropping acrobatics, larger than life puppets and stunning hand-crafted sets and costumes.
