NEW YORK LOVES KIDS KIDS Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
Contacts New York Loves Kids 447 Broadway (2nd Floor #401), New York, NY 10013
Contents
5 Editors Note 6 W here to See the Best Holiday Lights, Trees & Displays 8 Fishs Eddy Opens in DUMBO 10 NYC Family Winter Photo Spots 12 DIY Winter Crafts for Snow Days 15 Winter Camps & Activities Directory 28 Creating Cozy Family Traditions 30 Family Winter Bucket List 32 Teaching Gratitude During The Holidays 33 Parent Corner: Winter Self-Care 35 F amilies Who Walk Over The Brooklyn Bridge In Every Season 37 Things Only City Parents Understand 38 Indoor Fun For Cold Days 40 Family-Friendly Events Coming Up in NYC
Editor & CEO: Laurie Mackie
www.newyorkloveskids.com laurie@newyorkloveskids.com
2 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 3
Editor’s Note
There’s something special about winter in New York City. The lights, the laughter, the sound of boots on snowy sidewalks — it all feels like the city slows down just enough to let us notice the magic. As parents, we know the season can be both wonderful and demanding. Between snow days, holiday schedules, and long dark evenings, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. But winter also offers rare moments of stillness — the kind that remind us what really matters: family, connection, and simple joy. This year’s NYC Family Winter Guide is all about celebrating those moments. Inside, you’ll find ideas for cozy traditions,
creative indoor play, and where to see the city sparkle with holiday lights. We’ve also included snow day crafts, ways to show gratitude during this season, family events, and a winter camps directory. Whether you’re exploring the city or snuggling up at home, I hope these pages inspire you to slow down, have fun, and create new memories together. Because in the end, it’s the small things — the laughter, the cocoa, the quiet — that make winter in New York truly unforgettable. Stay warm, stay kind, and enjoy the season.
EXCELLENCE
N
NOW MORE AFFORDABLE. STILL EXCEPTIONAL.
A
THE KEW-FOREST SCHOOL PRESCHOOL THROUGH GRADE 12
KEWFOREST.ORG FOREST HILLS, NEW YORK
4 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 5
Where to See the Best Holiday Lights, Trees & Displays.
Bronx Bronx Zoo “Holiday Lights” – Large-scale light displays, lanterns, and animal-themed installations; ticketed evening event November 21 through early January 4. New York Botanical Garden “Holiday Train Nights” – Let roving train conductors welcome you to experience the Holiday Train Show® in a whole new light as the exhibition is illuminated for Holiday Train Nights. Select evenings in November, December and January. Queens Astoria Park Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – Embrace the excitement of this holiday season with the Central Astoria LDC 2025 Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 7. Luminosa: A Festival of Lights at Queens Botanical Garden – features more than 40 illuminated lamp scenes crafted by 150 artisans from 120 tons of steel and 150,000 feet of silk — an immersive winter wonderland ideal for family photos and festive fun. January 15 through January 19. Staten Island Historic Richmond Town Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join in on Friday, December 5, from 5pm - 6pm for the return of the free annual Tree Lighting celebration. Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and make an evening of exploring New York’s most festive lights. Many displays run through early January, giving families plenty of time to take in the sparkle and create lasting memories. The city may be chilly, but its holiday spirit burns bright.
New York City truly sparkles during the holiday season, with dazzling light displays transforming neighborhoods, parks, and landmarks across all five boroughs. From the iconic Rockefeller Center tree to the over-the-top decorations in Dyker Heights, there’s magic to be found everywhere you look. Whether you’re strolling through a glowing garden or admiring Fifth Avenue’s legendary windows, these twinkling displays capture the wonder Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Plaza – Annual lighting ceremony on December 3; tree remains lit through early January. Includes the Prometheus statue, skating rink, and Fifth Avenue holiday window displays nearby. Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows – Department stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s Herald Square, and Bloomingdale’s feature themed holiday window displays. Bryant Park Winter Village – Holiday market, lighted tree, and ice-skating rink; open from late October through early January. of winter in NYC. Manhattan Hudson Yards “Shine Bright” – Over two million lights illuminating The Shops and Public Square; free indoor display from November 17 through January 7. Brooklyn Dyker Heights Christmas Lights – Residential neighborhood light displays spanning 11th–13th Avenues between 83rd–86th Streets; peak viewing from mid- December to early January. Brooklyn Botanic Garden “Lightscape” – Ticketed outdoor light trail featuring illuminated sculptures and projections; November 21 through January 4.
From Brooklyn’s boldest blocks to Manhattan’s glittering avenues, the city shines brightest during the holidays.
6 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 7
A New Brooklyn Stop: Fishs Eddy Opens in DUMBO.
Image Credit: Fishs Eddy
playful graphics and city icons — ideal for brightening up the dinner table or wrapping up for someone special. The new store even includes a small café serving egg creams and hot chocolate, making it a fun outing for kids too. Whether you’re shopping for a teacher, a neighbour, or your own little ones, Fishs Eddy brings a dose of humour and heart to the holidays — New York style. The new Fishs Eddy store in DUMBO brings the brand’s signature charm — and plenty of gift inspiration — to Brooklyn. Manhattan: 889 Broadway at 19th Street, Flatiron Brooklyn: 76 Front Street, DUMBO
A new Brooklyn stop full of charm, quirkiness, and classic NYC spirit — perfect for your holiday gift list.
Beloved New York homeware store Fishs Eddy has recently opened its new location in DUMBO, Brooklyn, expanding from its much-loved Manhattan flagship. Known for its witty, vintage-inspired dinnerware and NYC-themed designs, the shop is filled with awesome pieces that make perfect holiday gifts. Families will love browsing the colourful plates, mugs, and glassware featuring
Image Credit: Fishs Eddy
8 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 9
3. DUMBO, Brooklyn For families who love city views, DUMBO is unbeatable. The cobblestone streets, Manhattan Bridge backdrop, and waterfront skyline make for timeless portraits. Around the holidays, nearby Jane’s Carousel and Empire Stores twinkle with lights, adding a festive touch. 4. Bryant Park Winter Village The glassy skating rink, sparkling tree, and cozy market stalls create a vibrant, urban winter scene. Capture the family mid-skate or huddled over hot chocolate from one of the holiday kiosks. Visit around golden hour for that soft, glowing light. 5. The Seaport District Overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge, the Seaport combines waterfront charm with holiday cheer. Festive decorations, light installations, and cobblestone streets create a warm, nostalgic setting — perfect Botanical Garden During the Holiday Train Show and NYBG Glow, the gardens are illuminated with stunning lights. Capture your family surrounded by twinkling paths and glowing sculptures — it’s pure seasonal magic. 7. Dyker Heights If you love big, bold holiday lights, head to Dyker Heights. Streets around 83rd–86th Streets between 11th–13th Avenues become a dazzling backdrop for family photos. Go after dark for the full effect, and arrive early to find the best spots. 8. The High Line for candid family shots. 6. The New York Bundle up and stroll the High Line for winter views unlike anywhere else in the city. The elevated park’s architecture, skyline, and
art installations make it ideal for creative family photos. The Spur at 30th Street often features striking sculptures or holiday décor. 9. South Street Ferry Views Hop on the Staten Island Ferry or NYC Ferry for sweeping skyline shots — completely free! The wind might be chilly, but the views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty are unbeatable for family photos with a sense of adventure. 10. Local Favourites Don’t overlook your neighbourhood — from brownstone stoops draped in garlands to snow-dusted playgrounds, local streets often make the most personal, heartfelt backdrops. Timing is everything. The best winter photos happen during the golden hours — shortly after sunrise or before sunset — when the city glows and the light softens. And remember: sometimes the best shot is the one where everyone’s laughing, mittened hands and all. Quick Tips for Great Winter Photos Layer up smartly: Neutral coats with bright scarves or hats look great on camera. Pack hand warmers: They’ll keep everyone smiling longer outdoors. Golden hour glow: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Hire a family photographer: Lots of NYC pros who specialize in relaxed, family-friendly shoots. Keep it fun: Let kids play — the best photos often happen between the poses.
NYC Family Winter Photo Spots. From city lights to snow-dusted parks, winter in New York makes every photo feel like a postcard.
Winter in New York City brings its own kind of magic — twinkling lights, cozy layers, and a crisp chill that makes the skyline sparkle. It’s the perfect backdrop for capturing family memories. Whether you’re after a festive holiday card, a winter portrait, or just a fun family day out with your camera, these NYC spots shine brightest this season. 1. Rockefeller Center & Fifth Avenue Nothing says New York winter quite like the Rockefeller Center tree and its
glittering ice rink. Early mornings or evenings after sunset are perfect for photos without the heavy crowds. Just steps away, the Fifth Avenue holiday window displays add an extra sparkle for those classic city shots. 2. Central Park After a fresh snowfall, Central Park becomes a winter wonderland. Try the Bow Bridge for iconic views, the Mall and Literary Walk for romantic tree-lined shots, or Wollman Rink for action-filled skating photos. Bundle up in bold colours — they’ll pop beautifully against the snowy backdrop.
10 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 11
DIY Winter Crafts for Snow Days.
4. Ice Lanterns A perfect way to turn freezing temps into art. Fill plastic containers with water, drop in pinecones, berries, or food colouring, and place a smaller cup inside to create space for a tealight. Freeze overnight, remove the cups, and add a candle for a glowing ice lantern. You’ll need: Plastic containers, small cups, water, natural decorations, tealight. 5. Winter Scene Jars Create a tiny snow globe without the fuss. Add cotton balls or white tissue paper for “snow,” small figurines or Lego pieces, and a sprinkle of glitter to a clean jar. Kids can design mini winter scenes and proudly display them. You’ll need: Clean jars, cotton balls, small toys or figures, glitter. 6. Painted Pinecones Gather pinecones from the park or buy a few at the store. Paint them white, gold, or silver for a snowy look, then tie on string for homemade ornaments or table decorations. You’ll need: Pinecones, paint, brush, string. 7. Cocoa Mugs with Personality Let kids decorate plain mugs with oil-based paint markers or ceramic pens. Bake them (following pen instructions) to set the design, and you’ll have personalized mugs perfect for hot chocolate after a day in the snow. You’ll need: Plain mugs, paint markers or ceramic pens. Snow days are a gift — a break from busy schedules and a chance to make something together. These simple crafts keep hands busy, imaginations active, and families bond all winter long.
A snowy day is the perfect time to stay warm, get creative, and make something magical together.
When the snow starts falling and the city slows down, it’s the perfect excuse to stay cozy indoors and get creative. These simple winter crafts are fun for kids, easy for parents, and use everyday supplies you likely already have at home. No special materials, no mess (well, not much!) — just pure, homemade winter fun. 1. Paper Snowflakes You can’t go wrong with a classic. Fold and cut plain white paper into different shapes to create your own blizzard of snowflakes. Tape them to windows for a wintery look, or string them together to make a garland. You’ll need: Paper, scissors, and tape or string. 2. Sock Snowmen Turn old socks into adorable, no-sew snowmen. Fill one sock with rice or cotton, tie it off with string to make the body and head, and decorate with buttons, ribbons, and markers. You’ll need: Old socks, rice or cotton, string, glue, buttons, markers. 3. Homemade Bird Feeders Bring a little life to your winter windows with a bird feeder craft. Spread peanut butter on a toilet paper roll, then roll it in birdseed. Hang it with string outside your window and wait for the visitors to arrive. You’ll need: Empty toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, birdseed, string.
12 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 13
Winter Camps & Activities Directory. Winter in New York City may be chilly, but it’s also a season full of energy and possibility for kids. School breaks and long weekends create the perfect opportunity for children to stay active, engaged, and social — even when the weather keeps them indoors. Our winter camps & activities directory brings together a range of programs across the city, helping families find options that spark creativity, build confidence, and offer a fun change of pace. Whether you’re hoping to keep your child happily occupied or simply want them to make new memories, these camps ensure winter is anything but quiet. Dive in and discover a season of warm, joyful adventures.
14 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 15
The Rainbow is your village. We are a family community play space in the heart of NYC’s East Village with open play all day every day, classes for babies and kids, birthday parties, and special programming for grown-ups. Created for babies and kids aged 0 months to 7 years old, The Rainbow is a miniature replica of our neighborhood and provides a unique indoor play environment where imaginations run wild. Our enrichment classes focus on art, music, sensory exploration, STEM, hip hop and movement, preschool prep, and so much more! Our mission is to create a safe and inclusive environment devoted to play. The Rainbow is your home away from home dedicated to help enrich the development of children in our community.
Atlantic Acting School offers exciting year-round theater classes for performers ages 4-18! Atlantic’s afterschool & weekend classes this Winter & Spring allow your rising star to play, create, and form lifelong friendships. Whether your child is taking the stage for the first time, or a professional ready to ace the callback, we have a wide range of classes for all levels! These engaging acting classes offer opportunities to explore creativity and grow as performers. Each class has a unique focus from musical theater to sketch, improv, scene study, film/TV, and more but all are rooted in the Atlantic Technique. Enroll now to take the spotlight!
Atlantic Acting School 76 Ninth Ave, Suite 313 New York, NY 10011
The Rainbow 343 E10th Street East Village New York, NY 10009
Website
Website
16 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 17
Playday camp is a fun-filled journey of indoor and outdoor creative experiences, making new friends, and building confidence! Our CAMP is designed for children age 5-12 (4-12 in Hoboken) who have a passion for creating, exploring, and expressing themselves. We offer a wide range of exciting art activities that will keep your child engaged and inspired.
Mini Camp - Schools go on break. A child’s mind never does. A chance for children to be with friends old and new, renew relationships with summer friends, and spend the day with favorite counselors. Days typically include a trip. Mid-Winter Recess, February 16 - 20, 2026 Spring Recess, April 6 - 10, 2026
Playday UES, UWS, Queens, Brooklyn, Hoboken
The Park Slope Day Camp 694 5 Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215
Website
Website
18 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 19
Parkour Adventure Holiday Camps NYC Go on a parkour adventure! Holiday Camps are a bite-sized version of our Summer Camp experience. We train outdoors every day and make the city our playground. No prior parkour experience is necessary, and we can provide an incredible experience for campers of any age or experience level! Ages 6-15 School Break Day Camps + Winter & Mid-Winter Recess Camps
This Winter Holiday Camp is the perfect program for children ages 3-5. Run by an experienced camp team, campers will participate in music, art, science, nature, games, cooking and live animal science lessons in our petting zoo where the children will meet and pet new animals every day. The children will engage in many age-appropriate activities with lots of laughter and fun as we all celebrate the holiday season. Offering full and half-day holiday break camp activities for children ages 3-5 December 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th, 31st, and January 2nd.
The Art Farm NYC 431 E. 91st Street, 2nd Floor 1st Floor Elevator Access New York, NY 10128
The Movement Creative Manhattan, Brooklyn & Queens
Website
Website
20 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 21
Looking for a dynamic and immersive way to spend a school break? Join the School Break Camps at Prospect Park Zoo, where 1st-5th graders dive into hands-on activities, animal investigations and up-close animal encounters. From one-day STEM-inspired adventures to full-week explorations of STEAM, nature and conservation, the sessions bring together science, technology, engineering, art and math with real wildlife experiences. Highlights include building like a bird to understand engineering, exploring wetlands and discovering the hidden ecosystems around us, and designing habitats that help protect animals and wild places. Whether your child dreams of being a planet- protector, zoologist or nature-artist, this camp is a fun, educational and engaging choice that transforms a break into discovery. 1-Day School Break Camp: STEM Stewards - 1/19 Mid-Winter Break Camp - 2/16-2/20 1-Day School Break Camp: Wild Wetlands -3 /20
Backed by our unique mission, NORY camp sets out to nurture purposeful changemakers. It starts with strengthening certain core soft skills, or attitudes: empathy, resilience, and inquisitiveness. Although these core soft skills are not exclusive to robotics, engineering, and science, NORY camps use these disciplines to drive excitement, problem-solving, and curiosity. All of our camp themes empower students to take risks and use technology in exciting ways. Ages 3-12. School Break Day Camps + Winter & Mid-Winter Camps
Prospect Park Zoo 50 Flatbush Ave Brooklyn, NY 11225
NORY Various locations in Manhattan & Brooklyn
Website
Website
22 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 23
School breaks are the perfect time for kids to move, play, and discover new interests — and Fun Fit Kids makes it easy with their action-packed multi-sport camp. Designed for children from PreK through 3rd grade, this energetic program introduces campers to a wide variety of sports, including basketball, gymnastics, kickball, volleyball, hockey, and soccer. The focus is on fun, confidence, and teamwork, so kids don’t need to be athletes to have an amazing time. Each day offers something new, with schedules that rotate between physical activities and creative enrichment. In addition to sports, campers enjoy hands-on art projects, engaging music sessions, and exciting STEM activities that spark curiosity and imagination. It’s the perfect balance of active play and creative exploration, giving kids a chance to stay busy, make friends, and build new skills while school is out.
No school? Dive into adventure with the School Break Camps at the New York Aquarium! Designed for 1st- through 4th-graders, these full-day programs deliver immersive hands-on experiences exploring marine life. Campers get exclusive early access to the aquarium, behind-the-scenes encounters with aquatic creatures, and close-up interactions with fascinating ocean invertebrates. From octopuses and cuttlefish to investigating underwater friendships, each camp day is crafted to engage curiosity and spark wonder. To join, simply register online. Whether your youngster dreams of ocean-explorer status or just wants a fun, educational day off school, these camps offer a memorable marine-themed experience. 1/19 Martin Luther King Day 3/20 Eid al-Fitr
NY Aquarium 602 Surf Ave Brooklyn, NY 11224
Fun Fit Kids 752 W End Ave New York, NY 10025
Website
Website
24 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 25
January 19 + February 16 - 20, 2026 Our in-person mid-winter camp is the ideal place for your child to spend the school holidays, whether you need coverage while you’re at work or simply want to give them a meaningful and memorable experience. The camp offers a warm and welcoming environment where children can create beautiful memories, learn something new, and enjoy a variety of enriching activities. Throughout each day, campers are introduced to the Italian language in a natural and playful way — through listening, participating, and exploring different forms of expression. Whether your child is hearing Italian for the first time or already has some familiarity, the camp provides an inviting space to experience the language while having fun. The exciting daily schedule includes a morning cooking class, along with drawing, art and craft projects, music, songs, and dance. Each activity encourages creativity, curiosity, and joyful movement. Pronti?
Looking for an energetic, skill-building holiday camp for your child? NYC Elite’s Winter and School-Break Camp offers children of all gymnastics backgrounds a fantastic indoor adventure. Based at locations in Tribeca, Upper West Side and Upper East Side, this camp combines gymnastics coaching with broader fun- filled activities in a safe, supervised environment. Throughout the break, children get to tumble, balance, jump and play, developing strength, coordination and confidence, while still enjoying the light-hearted atmosphere of a holiday camp. The program allows for half-day or full-day days, and welcomes kids from the youngest tumbler to those more experienced. Whether your child wants to try something new or keep moving during the school closure, this camp offers structured routines, expert coaching and the chance to make friends. It’s a perfect option for parents needing coverage and kids wanting to keep active, engaged and excited when school is out.
Speakitaly NYC Manhattan & Brooklyn locations
NYC Elite UWS, UES, Tribeca
Website
Website
26 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 27
Creating Cozy Family Traditions.
Create Comfort Through Food Nothing brings people together like food. Choose one comforting dish that becomes a winter staple — homemade soup, pancakes for dinner, or warm cinnamon buns on Saturday mornings. These small culinary traditions can turn ordinary days into something kids look back on fondly. Capture the Moments Traditions are meant to evolve, but capturing them helps them live on. Take a quick photo of each Sunday soup, save drawings or journal pages, or start a “winter scrapbook” that shows how your family grows and changes each year. Wrap-Up Cozy family traditions aren’t about perfection — they’re about presence. Whether you’re gathered around the dinner table, reading together by the window, or just laughing over a bowl of soup, these small rituals create warmth
that lasts far beyond the season. Quick Tradition Starters (Perfect for busy NYC families — no planning required!) Gratitude Jar: Keep a jar and slips of paper handy. Write one thing you’re thankful for each night. Family Playlist: Build a shared winter soundtrack — add one new song every week. Game Night Wednesdays: Quick card or board games before bedtime — 20 minutes max! Story Swap Sundays: Everyone tells one funny or made-up story from the week. Cozy Photo Challenge: One family photo a week — messy hair, pajamas, and all. Friday Night Forts: Build a blanket fort, add fairy lights, and read or watch a movie inside.
becomes Soup Sunday, where everyone takes turns choosing a recipe, or Hot Chocolate Fridays to celebrate the end of the school week. Make It Meaningful Choose traditions that feel right for your family’s rhythm. Keep a shared journal where everyone adds one happy moment each week, or light a candle before dinner to mark the end of a busy day. You could even start a “family gratitude jar,” where everyone writes down something they’re thankful for and reads them aloud on New Year’s Eve. Embrace the Indoors Winter gives families a rare chance to slow down and spend time together at home. Try a family book night, where you all curl up with your favourite stories. Or start a winter movie marathon — from festive classics to comfort-watch favourites. Bring out blankets, dim the lights, and make popcorn part of the ritual.
The smallest traditions often make the biggest memories.
As the temperatures drop and city life slows down, winter is the perfect time to lean into comfort and connection. Creating small, meaningful family traditions can turn the season’s dark evenings and cold weekends into something everyone looks forward to. You don’t need grand gestures or elaborate plans — just a few cozy routines that make your home feel warm, calm, and full of love. Start Simple Traditions don’t need to be complicated. In fact, the simplest ones often last the longest. Think of something you already do — like Sunday dinner or movie night — and give it a winter twist. Maybe it
28 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 29
Beating The Winter Blues As A Family.
Keep connection front and centre. With busy school schedules and dark evenings, it’s easy for families to retreat into their own corners. Create small daily rituals that bring everyone together — dinner without screens, reading aloud before bed, or simply talking about the day’s highs and lows. These check-ins build warmth and stability. Don’t underestimate the power of creativity either. Drawing, music, and storytelling all provide outlets for self-expression and stress relief. Let kids paint, write, or make something without worrying about the mess — it’s about process, not perfection. Finally, make plans to look forward to. It doesn’t have to be a big trip — even scheduling a “mid-winter treat” like a family movie night, baking session, or park visit gives everyone something to anticipate. Be kind to yourself too. The winter blues affect parents as much as kids. Taking care of your own energy — with rest, daylight, and connection — helps you stay grounded and positive. Winter in New York can feel long, but it also invites togetherness. By filling your home with light, movement, and love, you can transform the slow months into something restorative and joyful.
Family Winter Bucket List.
The excitement of the holidays fades, the days are short, and it’s easy for winter to start feeling long. Even kids can sense the shift — less daylight, less outdoor play, more time cooped up indoors. The good news is that small, consistent habits can keep everyone’s spirits high until spring. Start by bringing more light into your home. Open curtains early, let natural light in wherever possible, and use warm lamps instead of harsh overhead lighting. Candles and fairy lights can also help soften the atmosphere, making evenings feel calm and inviting. Movement is another powerful mood booster. Schedule short bursts of physical activity every day — a living room dance party, a few minutes of yoga, or even a brisk family walk around the block. Exercise releases endorphins and helps shake off that sluggish winter feeling.
Winter in New York can feel long, but it also brings a certain kind of magic. The city sparkles, the air feels fresh, and cozy time at home becomes an invitation to slow down. A family winter bucket list is a simple way to make the most of the season — a mix of small adventures, creative projects, and feel-good traditions you can check off together. Start with the home-based fun. Build a blanket fort big enough for everyone to fit inside, turn off the lights, and read stories by flashlight. Have a family movie marathon — pyjamas required — or make a “build-your-own” hot chocolate bar with toppings like whipped cream, grandparents and friends, bake cookies for a neighbour, or host a family game night with everyone’s favourite board games. Try a new soup recipe on Sundays or declare a “breakfast for dinner” night once a week — simple meals that always feel special. marshmallows, and candy canes. Write winter postcards or letters to
When cabin fever hits, bundle up and get outdoors. Go for a winter walk in your local park and look for animal footprints or icicles. Build a snowman or have a snowball fight if the weather cooperates. Take a family photo in your favourite coats, or hunt for the city’s best holiday lights after dark. Visit your local library for story time or a family craft event, and when the weekend allows, try a new indoor activity together — like ice skating or bowling. As you check off each activity, jot a few notes or snap a photo. By spring, you’ll have not just memories, but a record of a season well spent. The goal isn’t to do everything, but to slow down and savour the moments. Whether you complete two or twenty items, a winter bucket list turns ordinary days into small celebrations — and helps your family find joy in the heart of the coldest season.
30 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 31
Parent Corner: Winter Self-Care.
Teaching Gratitude During The Holidays.
The holiday season is bursting with excitement — gifts, lights, and busy schedules — but it’s also the perfect opportunity to help kids understand gratitude. When you teach children to appreciate what they have, you give them a gift that lasts far beyond December. Gratitude starts with awareness. Take small moments to point out the good around you — a warm apartment on a cold day, a friendly neighbour, a family meal together. Kids learn gratitude best by seeing it modelled. Saying thank you to a cashier, writing a quick note to a teacher, or appreciating a small gesture shows them how simple kindness can be. Make gratitude part of your family’s daily rhythm. It’s a beautiful reminder of how much joy can be found in ordinary days. Encourage kids to express thanks creatively. Handwritten thank-you cards are still a treasure, especially after
receiving gifts. Younger kids can draw pictures, while older ones can write a few heartfelt lines. Acts of giving deepen the lesson. Encourage your children to choose one toy or book to donate before the holidays. For older kids, volunteering — even briefly — helps them see the impact of generosity. At dinner, introduce “one good thing” sharing: each person names something they appreciated that day. It doesn’t have to be big — maybe a funny moment at school or a kind word from a friend. Over time, this practice helps shift focus from what’s missing to what’s already wonderful. Keep the spirit of gratitude alive after the holidays too. When decorations come down and the new year begins, start a gratitude jar or keen your dinner ritual going. Gratitude doesn’t just make children kinder — it makes them happier, more resilient, and more connected.
Parents spend much of the winter making sure everyone else is warm, fed, and happy. But your energy fuels the whole family — and self-care isn’t selfish. Start small. Take ten quiet minutes each morning for coffee, journaling, or stretching before the day begins. Go for short walks in daylight whenever possible — even a few minutes of sun can lift your mood. Make rest a routine, not a reward. Trade off bedtime duties or chores with your
partner to guarantee downtime. If you’re solo parenting, try setting “quiet time” where everyone does independent activities for half an hour. Stay connected. Reach out to friends for short chats, even when you’re busy. Adult conversation can do wonders when the days feel repetitive. And remember, perfection isn’t the goal. Some winter days will be messy, loud, and chaotic — but if you’ve taken care of yourself enough to meet them calmly, you’re doing great.
32 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 33
Families Who Walk Over The Brooklyn Bridge In Every Season.
For many New York families, walking over the Brooklyn Bridge becomes a simple tradition that naturally repeats itself through every season. But winter often turns out to be the most magical time of all. With fewer crowds and crisp, bright air, the bridge feels calmer and more open. Families bundle up, step onto the wooden walkway, and suddenly the city feels new again. Winter light makes the skyline glow, and on snowy days, the entire bridge sparkles as if the whole scene were dusted with glitter. The beauty is in the little moments: a child spotting the Statue of Liberty through the cables, the promise of hot chocolate on the
other side, the thrill of walking above the river on a cold, clear day. Even the sounds — boots on wood, the soft hum of the wind — feel special. Kids quickly learn the bridge’s winter personality, from the golden late- afternoon sun to the stillness of the river below. And for parents, these crossings become small but meaningful memories — tiny adventures right in the heart of the city. A winter walk across the Brooklyn Bridge may be chilly, but it’s peaceful, bright, and full of quiet magic — a tradition many families find themselves returning to year after year.
34 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 35
NYC Winter Oddities: Things Only City Parents Understand.
At The Co-op School, progressive education begins with joy. We celebrate the holistic development of each child and encourage their curiosity at every opportunity.
Winter in New York has its own language — and city parents speak it fluently. It starts with the wind at 59th and Lex, the kind that doesn’t just blow past you but seems to choose you personally, pushing strollers sideways and reminding you that the corner owns you, not the other way around. Then there’s the mystery of scooters. No matter how cold it is — 2°C, wind chill below freezing — kids will insist on riding them. Gloves? Optional. Frozen fingers? Apparently not a problem. Parents jog behind, wondering why they brought the stroller at all.
through winter slush is an unspoken NYC art form. You learn quickly which crosswalks hide knee-deep puddles, how to angle the wheels for traction, and how to lift the whole thing with one heroic move when the slush gets too deep. And let’s talk about gloves. Somehow, every family in New York owns 11 gloves — never 12. Always missing the right one? No. It’s always the left one! Where do they go? Nobody knows. Possibly the same parallel universe that eats umbrellas. These oddities don’t make winter harder — they just make it uniquely, unmistakably New York. And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.
TAKE A TOUR
thecoopschool.org
Speaking of strollers, navigating them
36 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 37
Indoor Fun For Cold Days. Freezing outside? No problem. NYC’s indoor fun keeps kids moving, learning, and laughing all winter long. Bad weather doesn’t keep us New Yorkers indoors — and it definitely doesn’t stop our kids from having fun. When the sky turns gloomy or the temperatures dip, families across the city simply swap playgrounds for play spaces, museums for muddy parks, and ninja gyms for snow-slushed sidewalks. In true NYC fashion, we don’t slow down — we just take the adventure indoors. When temperatures drop, NYC families don’t need to stay home — the city is full
of warm, exciting indoor spaces perfect for playing, creating, climbing, and exploring. In Manhattan, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan on the Upper West Side remains a family favourite thanks to its creative exhibits and hands-on play areas. Just a few blocks away, the American Museum of Natural History offers endless indoor exploration, from towering dinosaur fossils to the magical Discovery Room where young visitors can dig, build, and imagine. Families looking to get crafty can pop into The Craft Studio on the Upper East Side or in Tribeca for drop-in art, slime sessions, and themed workshops, or head to Color Me Mine in Tribeca or UWS to paint colourful pottery masterpieces. For puzzle-solving kids and adventure-ready teens, Mission Escape Games in Midtown and The Escape Game in Times Square deliver immersive escape challenges perfect for cold days. Younger creatives will love The Rainbow, a brand-new colourful play and imagination space in the East Village, while energetic kids and teens can tackle Ninja Warrior–style obstacle training at New York City Ninja Academy
Across the river in Brooklyn, families can warm up inside the Brooklyn Children’s Museum in Crown Heights, where interactive exhibits spark curiosity and play. Little ones under six adore Twinkle Playspace in Williamsburg with its whimsical, imaginative zones, while budding artists can get hands-on at Private Picassos in Clinton Hill through family classes and creative workshops. For those eager to climb away the cold, Brooklyn Boulders and Movement Gowanus offer youth climbing programs suited for all levels. Teens and tweens love the high- tech team challenge experience at Beat the Bomb in DUMBO, while energetic kids can burn off winter wiggles at the Brooklyn Ninja Academy, home to obstacle courses and ninja training sessions. Queens families can spend hours exploring The New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows, with more than 450 interactive STEM exhibits that make science feel like play. If bouncing is more your speed, Launch Trampoline Park in Howard Beach offers trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses. Younger children will have a blast
at Kids Fun House in Ridgewood, a multi- level indoor playground perfect for staying warm and active. In the Bronx, the Bronx Children’s Museum provides creative, community-centred fun for young learners, while the Bronx Zoo’s indoor exhibits, including JungleWorld and the World of Reptiles, offer warm, immersive environments where kids can explore tropical habitats—without stepping outside. Staten Island families can enjoy hands-on exhibits and art programs at the Staten Island Children’s Museum in Snug Harbor, or lace up their skates at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion, where indoor lessons and free-skate sessions help keep winter blues at bay. Cold weather is the perfect excuse to try somewhere new — from ninja academies to climbing gyms and creative studios. Finish with a hot chocolate and turn a chilly day into a fun family adventure.
38 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 39
Family-Friendly Events Coming Up in NYC… Holiday Train Show at NYBG November 15, 2025 through Jan 11, 2026 New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, New York 10458 After more than three decades, the Holiday Train Show continues to delight as New York City’s favorite winter tradition and a can’t-miss adventure. The timeless magic of rail travel fills NYBG with seasonal cheer as model trains travel over famous bridges and through familiar city settings, bringing nearly 200 twinkling landmark replicas— including new surprises for 2025/2026— to life under the glass of the warm and welcoming Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ holiday-train-show-at-nybg/ Special Etiquette Event at Let’s Dress Up November 16, 2025 Let’s Dress Up, 345 East 85th Street, New York NY 10028 You are cordially invited for tea with a very polite twist. We are having an Etiquette Party with the experts from Beaumont Etiquette. Back at Let’s Dress Up by popular demand and on the heels of launching their Mini Manners You Tube Channel. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ special-etiquette-event-at-lets-dress-up/
lights and hundreds of illuminated animals spread across six lantern trails. Holiday Lights is a festive night out with friends and family as we celebrate wildlife and enjoy immersive light experiences, hands-on activities, holiday entertainment, and delicious food and drinks. Beloved favorites return, including the Holiday Train and Enchanted Sea - plus NEW surprises including thrilling snow tube slides, an epic illuminated ice-themed throne, virtual snowball throwing, and much more. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ bronx-zoo-holiday-lights-2/ Sleepover – TADA! Youth Theater November 22, 2025 - December 14, 2025 (Saturdays & Sundays) TADA! Youth Theater, 15 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001 Sleepover dives into the hilarious world of teen life, where friendship is everything, secret crushes are revealed, and the biggest drama is who makes the guest list. The girls are planning. The boys are crashing. Let’s get this party started! https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ sleepover-tada-youth-theater/ Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade November 27, 2025 Parade route from West 77th St & Central Park West to Herald Square The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on Thursday, November 27, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, filling the streets of Manhattan with its iconic mix of giant balloons, dazzling
floats, marching bands, and Broadway performances. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-2025/
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards November 17, 2025 - January 7, 2026 Hudson Yards, 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001 Hudson Yards is the ultimate must-visit holiday destination in NYC, with over two million glittering lights throughout the neighborhood. Enjoy live performances, free photos with Santa, holiday shopping for everyone on your list, festive dining, and much more throughout the holiday season. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ shine-bright-at-hudson-yards/ Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (excluding November 24, 25 & 27, December 1, 2, 3, 8, 15, 16 & 25) Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY 11238 Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden returns this holiday season. Stroll through a glittering winter trail and be transported to an enchanted forest—right in the heart of Brooklyn. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ lightscape-at-brooklyn-botanic-garden-2/ Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights November 21, 2025 — January 4, 2026 Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 Join us for a family holiday festival at the Bronx Zoo. New York’s family-favorite holiday tradition returns, as millions of
GratitudeFest: Thanksgiving Weekend Performances at CMOM Friday – Sunday, November 28 – 30, 2025 Children’s Museum of Manhattan, The Tisch Building, 212 West 83rd Street, New York, NY 10024 Celebrate the vibrant, diverse communities of New York through song and dance! It’s a wonderful time to celebrate all that New York City has to offer…and each other! https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ gratitudefest-thanksgiving-weekend- performances-at-cmom/ Animal Tales of Christmas Magic December 6, 2025 Le Skyroom, L’Alliance New York, 22 East 60th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10022 Animal Tales of Christmas Magic is a collection of five short, animated films celebrating the holiday season. A stork and fox join forces to save Santa’s home, a brave little chick stands up to a flock of crows on her very first Christmas, and creatures of the forest gather to observe the wonder of the northern lights https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ cinema-at-lalliance-new-york-presents- the-new-york-premiere-of-animal-tales-of- christmas-magic/
40 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 41
A treasured holiday tradition, Mozart’s heartwarming fairy tale takes the stage in the Met’s abridged. Featuring some of opera’s most popular melodies and brought to life with colorful sets and costumes and dazzling puppetry, it’s perfect for audiences of all ages. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/the- magic-flute-holiday-presentation The Broadway Magic Hour January 3, 10, 11, 17, 24, 31, 2025 February 7, 14, 15, 28, 2025, March 7, 14, 15, 21, 2025 Broadway Comedy Club, 318 W. 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019 Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio, the stars of The Broadway Magic Hour, a family-friendly hour of fun-filled magical entertainment. On selected Saturdays and Sundays. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/the- broadway-magic-hour Luminosa: A Festival of Lights January 15 - 19, 2026 Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355 Step into a world of enchantment as Luminosa comes to New York for the first time! Taking place at the breathtaking Queens Botanical Garden, this festival of lights is set to be larger and more awe-inspiring than ever. With over 40 stunning lamp scenes, meticulously crafted by 150 artisans using 120 tons of steel and 150,000 feet of silk, Luminosa will transform Queens Botanical Garden into an immersive wonderland. https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ luminosa-a-festival-of-lights/
Holiday Nostaglia Rides at New York Transit Museum December 7, 2025 (and every Sunday in December) The Holiday Nostalgia Train will depart from 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line and 96 St–2 Av on the Q line This holiday season, the New York Transit Museum and MTA New York City Transit continue the annual tradition of Holiday Nostalgia Rides aboard our vintage 1930s train cars. Hop aboard and celebrate the magic of New York City during the holidays — rides are free with your subway fare! https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/ holiday-nostaglia-rides-at-new-york-transit- museum/ Mo Willems’ Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are In A Play!” December 13, 2025 – February 1, 2026 – Saturdays & Sundays Atlantic Stage 2, 330 West 16th Street, New York, NY 10011 Atlantic Theater Company is thrilled to welcome legendary #1 New York Times bestselling author and Caldecott winner Mo Willems and welcome back Helen Hayes winner Deborah Wicks La Puma (She Persisted, The Musical). https://newyorkloveskids.com/events/mo- willems-elephant-piggies-we-are-in-a-play/ The Magic Flute – Holiday Presentation December 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, 30, 2025 + Jan 2 & 3, 2026 The Metropolitan Opera, 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
42 | New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026
New York Loves Kids | Family Winter Guide 2025-2026 | 43
Page 1 Page 2-3 Page 4-5 Page 6-7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 16-17 Page 18-19 Page 20-21 Page 22-23 Page 24-25 Page 26-27 Page 28-29 Page 30-31 Page 32-33 Page 34-35 Page 36-37 Page 38-39 Page 40-41 Page 42-43 Page 44Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs