Free Kid and Family Activities in NYC: 10 Free Things to Do This Week
We always feature great family events on New York Family, and you can also find many more on our calendar of events. In addition, each week we also share ten things you can do for FREE for the week ahead throughout the five boroughs. Scroll down to plan your week!
Psst…Check Out Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in NYC
Free Family Events for the Week of 11/19-11/25
Basketball Skills and Drills Kids are invited to learn the fundamentals of basketball by running drills and taking part in situational training. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 3:30 – 5:30 pm. All ages. St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Ave., Bronx
Fifth Avenue Snowflake Illumination Ceremony Kick off the festive holiday season with the lighting of the iconic Fifth Avenue Snowflake! There will be a brief ceremony prior to the lighting, with a performance by the Marymount School of New York Concert Choir and Salvation Army Band. Special guest and actor Justin Long will introduce five-year-old St. Jude childhood cancer survivor Imani from Long Island, who will ultimately light the snowflake, symbolizing hope and the power of community. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 5 pm. All ages. The Fifth Avenue Snowflake, 57th St. & Fifth Ave., Manhattan
Thanksgiving Gratitude Hour Enjoy an hour of crafts and activities dedicated to the gratitude we feel all year round, and especially on Thanksgiving. Friday, Nov. 21, 3:30 – 4:30 pm. Ages 5 – 2. Tottenville Library, 7430 Amboy Road, Staten Island
Story Reading + Craft Time at an Art Gallery To celebrate the launch of the second edition of her debut story book, Log & Moss, Catherine Mondoa invites families to hear a live reading, explore a few real biomaterials from the exhibition “the living room,” and create their own nature-inspired craft using moss and other natural materials. While children craft and listen, grown ups can enjoy light refreshments and take in the exhibition. Saturday, Nov. 22, 11 am. Ages 4 – 8. Advanced registration required. FUGUE Gallery, 141 Canal St., 3rd Floor, Manhattan
Juggling Classes Join the Bryant Park Jugglers for a quick lesson, stay for the whole time, or just enjoy watching them put their skills to the test. They’re a friendly group and open to drop-ins, even if you catch them outside of the regular juggling lessons. All skill levels are welcome. Nov. 22, Saturdays, 11 am – 1 pm, Tuesdays, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, through Dec. 30. All ages. The Lawn or on the Upper Terrace behind the library at Bryant Park, 6th Avenue bet. 40th and 42nd St., Manhattan
Daffodil Bulb Planting The weather may have just turned chilly, but think ahead to spring as you help plant daffodil bulbs along the Veterans Road Equestrian Trail! Saturday, Nov. 22, 1 pm. All ages. Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, 2351 Veterans Road West, Staten Island
Schoolhouse Rock Live! Schoolhouse Rock Live! follows Tom, a nerve-wracked school teacher who is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV, when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music, through such songs as “Just a Bill,” “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly,” and “Conjunction Junction.” Saturday, Nov. 22, 1 – 2 pm. All ages. Brooklyn Public Library — Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
Music & Movement with Funkytown Playground Get up on your feet with Funkytown Playground! Join this interactive program that combines music and movement, helping kids develop social, learning, and motor skills. Monday, Nov. 24, 10:30 – 11:30 am. Ages 11 and younger. Woodhaven Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven
Planting at Bronx Park Volunteer as a family and help the Bronx River Alliance plant native shrubs and trees. Tuesday, Nov. 25, 9:30 am – noon. All ages. Bronx Park, 2222 Bronx Park East, Bronx
DTBK Gets Lit! Celebrate the season at this annual holiday lighting ceremony, where DJ Mike Doelo will create the perfect seasonal vibes. Delight in the festive harmonies of Janis Weatherly and members of The Lafayette Inspirational Ensemble. Adding to the fun are entertainers Andrea Flow, Brianna Kalisch, Flow Juggle, and Roller Boogie. Plus, win prizes and savor delicious hot chocolate while supplies last. Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6 – 7 pm. All ages. Albee Square, Albee Square W & Fulton St., Brooklyn
Psst… Check Out Family-Friendly Thanksgiving Events in NYC for 2025
