Here at the Nanny Authority, we are bundling up and trying to make the most of this festive season! There are so many amazing things to do in New York City this winter, and we’ve rounded up some of our favorites for you here. Take a look, and let us know if you end up attending any of these great events!
All Month Long
Between December 1-22, stop by the ! You can visit the 5th floor for a puppet show (best for children 6 and under) by the amazing puppeteers at Puppetsburg! The market offers shops, delicious food and drinks, and live music. Great for children of all ages! Great for children 6 and under but the market offers food, drink, shops and live music!
A holiday tradition, get tickets for , featuring New York’s very own high-kicking Rockettes! Running now through January 5th. We’ve heard that this year, everyone in the audience gets a Santa hat!
Are you ever really too old to enjoy a little magic? Catch the amazing at the Neil Simon Theater through January 5th.
All aboard! is an amazing holiday model train show. Children can explore, climb on the viewing dome, and have a wonderful time! While you’re on the Upper West Side, pop next door to see the . It’s 13 feet tall and decorated with origami created by artists from around the globe, and you will also get a chance to create some of your own origami!
Another holiday tradition, head uptown to catch the . Watch a model train zoom through over 175 of NYC鈥檚 famous landmarks, all recreated with natural materials. We also heard that notable train Thomas the Tank Engine may be making an appearance. There will also be carols, crafts, and delicious treats for all. Bundle up and explore!
We’re very excited to see Cirque du Soleil’s holiday presentation, , at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater. It’s a modern twist (plus a jump, and a spin!) on the Christmas classic, and it’s fun for children of all ages. Running December 12th – 29th.
We’re also looking forward to heading to the Bronx Zoo for their . In addition to bright animal lanterns, their awe-inspiring LED display, and animated sculptures through the zoo, they will also have roaming carolers, characters in costume, ice carving, snacks, souvenirs, and a seasonal train. Please check their website for exact schedules. Running through January 5th. Fun for all ages!聽
Of course, you can always make a reservation at Macy’s for your kiddos to meet Santa at their . Enjoy the magical winter wonderland on the 8th floor of Macy’s Herald Square. Old Saint Nick will be there for photo ops, but please be sure to check their website and make a reservation! While you’re there, check out their gorgeous holiday store windows!
Weekend of December 6 – 8
Saturday, December 7
. Watch this hilarious comedy troupe improv stories created by children in the audience. Fun for all ages.聽
Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8, from 12-6pm each day
. With over 40 vendors signed up, you are bound to find a perfect gift for everyone on your list! There will also be a make-your-own gift section, ornament engraving, and cookie decorating. Food for everyone, and wine for the grownups!
Weekend of December 13 – 15
Friday, December 13th
. Their website is boasting a night of 鈥渕usic, glow sticks, latkes, and light!鈥 They are also holding a baked good drive for the Goddard Riverside Community Center, which serves Christmas dinner to over 1,000 people in need. This is a great opportunity to spend some time in the kitchen with your kiddos, as the Chanukah dinner is also serving as a baked good drive for the Goddard Riverside Community Center, which serves Christmas dinner to over 1000 people in need each year.
Friday, December 13 – Sunday, December 15
at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College. Times vary depending on the day. Good for ages 5 and up.聽
Saturday, December 14 – Sunday, December 15
at the Center for Architecture. Bring the whole family to make a gingerbread house masterpiece. Programs are designed for children 5-13. Programs are 11-1pm and 2-4pm both days.聽
Sunday, December 15, 11am
from the Kaufman Music Center at the Merkin Concert Hall. Enjoy this girl-power twist on a classic Hanukkah story.
Weekend of December 20th – 22nd聽
Sunday, December 22, 12pm
in the East Village. Enjoy theater, dance, puppetry, storytelling, music, and a gingerbread-house-building extravaganza. Recommended for children ages 4 and up.
Weekend of December 27 – 29
Thursday, December 26 – Sunday, December 29
. Learn more about and celebrate Kwanzaa鈥檚 seven principles: unity, self-determination, cooperation, purpose, faith, creativity, and collective work and responsibility. There will be music, dance, storytelling, theater, and other activities! Good for all ages.聽
Honorable Weekday Mentions
Thursday, December 5, 6pm
at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Skating performances, carols, and fireworks, plus all the bites that Bryant Park鈥檚 Winter Village has to offer – we recommend the Bomboloni and Hot Cocoa stall on the west side of the park, near the library, where we can often be found on our lunch breaks! The winter village will be open until March 1, if you’re unable to make it on Thursday!
Monday, December 16th, 6:00 – 8:30pm
. Possibly the biggest celebration of the latke that you鈥檒l find and who isn鈥檛 a fan of latkes? Head over to the Brooklyn Museum to get your tastebuds dancing. All proceeds from this event benefit The Sylvia Center, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that teaches cooking in underserved communities.