The Holidays in NYC Mean...

Holly Rosen Fink - New York
December 7, 2011

There is no better place than New York City during the holiday season.  The city is in all its glory with Christmas lights and decorations in every nook of the city.  Even with the chill in the air, the city is a wonderland for any child and there are options outside of the typical mainstream activities like the tree at Rockefeller Center and the shop windows (which are also quintessential NYC must-see's).  From checking out the train show at Botanical Gardens to ice skating in Bryant Park to celebrating Kwanzaa at the Natural Museum of History, NYC has a wide variety of family-friendly options to please families of all religions and backgrounds.

New York Botanical Garden's Train Annual Holiday Train Show

Through January 16, 2012

The New York Botanical Garden's annual Holiday Train Show is always a highlight of the NYC holiday season. You and your kids will marvel at the charming model trains and NYC landmark replicas, stroll the spectacular grounds, decorate (and eat!) gingersnaps, break for lunch and hot chocolate, and explore other parts of the garden while you're there. Within the enchanting setting of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, model trains zip over bridges and past replicas of New York landmarks made of plant parts such as nuts, bark, and leaves. Show favorites include the original Yankee Stadium, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. Two important considerations: 1) you must book your tickets in advance, as you need a day and time to enter, and 2) consider becoming a member of the gardens before you buy your tickets as the savings are worthwhile.  On your way home, stop in the Bronx's Little Italy at Arthur Avenue & 187th Street to replenish everyone's belly for a cannoli and cappuccino.

World's Largest Hanukkah Menorah Lighting

Tuesday, December 20th through Wednesday, December 28th; Friday at 3:30 p.m., Saturday at 8:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on all other days

The miracle of Hanukkah takes on even greater significance for kids as they look upon the 32-foot, 4,000-pound, golden candelabra that grandly takes the spotlight near Central Park on the corner of 5th Avenue and 59th Street. At the beginning of the holiday, a celebration will include live music, singing and folk dancing, "Chanukah Gelt" (chocolate coins) for the children and hot latkes for everyone. For Jewish people living in other cities around America who are visiting NYC, this can be an overwhelming experience as it is not every day that you find life size menorahs in major cities.

Bryant Park Ice Skating

Through February 26, 2012

If you want to take your children ice skating in NYC, Bryant Park is a wonderful option. Not only is it less crowded than your other options, it's also cheaper. You can bring your own skates and skate for free. Lockers are also free. You can rent skates or check bags if you need to, but there is no time limit for ice skating. There's a beautiful tree at one end of the rink and when you look up, there are stunning views of the surrounding buildings. In addition, you can check out the Fetes de Noel holiday market which sells unique gifts or have a hot chocolate at the Pond Snack Shop or your kids can ride the carousel. Celsius, the new Canadian Lounge has heaters you can sit under while you watch the ice skaters. A few considerations: make sure you bring a combination lock if you need to lock up your things. If your child doesn't like crowds, also be aware that it does get crowded late in the day.

The Annual Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche

Through January 8, 2012

Every year the Metropolitan Museum of Art displays a 20-foot tall Christmas tree, surrounded by an 18th century Neapolitan Nativity scene, complete with new angels and crèche figures. The tree is lit with lights, cherubs and features fifty angels. Recorded music and lighting ceremonies add to the enjoyment of the holiday display. Your children will be mesmerized!

Kwanzaa 2011 at the American Museum of Natural History

December 31, 12-4pm

The Museum of Natural History is a vibrant celebration that honors the seven principles of Kwanzaa with performances of song, dance,and spoken word and an international marketplace. This year's event will feature storyteller Linda Humes as master of ceremonies, African-Caribbean performing group Something Positive, Inc., and other presenters.  After you are done exploring the museum, head over to Alice's Tea Cup on 73rd and Columbus for tea and scones.