Post-Thanksgiving Day Hike
Friday, Nov. 29, 1-3 p.m.
Van Cortlandt Park Nature Center
Free
Work off the Thanksgiving feast with this fun hike through the many trails of Van Cortlandt Park. Join the Urban Park Rangers for this enjoyable journey through the park that allows participants to explore the great outdoors while getting in some much-needed exercise.
For more information, visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2024/11/29/postthanksgiving-day-hike-cass-gallagher-trail.
Tim Burton’s “A Nightmare Before Christmas” Light Trail
Saturday, Nov. 30, 6-10 p.m.
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd.
$39-$49
While Halloween may have come and gone, there is still plenty of time left to be in the spooky spirit and get ready for the Christmas spirit. Join Jack Skellington and his Halloween friends from the classic Tim Burton film “A Nightmare Before Christmas” for a walk of wonders at New York’s most treasured garden. See the characters, scenes and songs from the film come to life at this spectacle illuminating the film’s art with botanical beauty. This event is also a great way to kick off the coming holiday season, with Christmas right around the corner.
For more information, visit https://thenightmarebeforechristmaslighttrail.com/.
Family Art Project: Grateful for Trees Canvas Bags
Sunday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Wave Hill, 4900 Independence Ave.
Free, with $4-$10 admission
Celebrate the beauty of trees by printing leaves onto reusable tote bags to create your own stylish accessory. This project also reflects the participants’ appreciation for trees, which provide us with shade, food and oxygen. There will also be a story-time program in the Gund Theater at 11:30 of Sabrina Moyle’s Thanksgiving-themed book “Thanks A Ton!”
For more information, visit https://www.wavehill.org/calendar/grateful-for-trees-canvas-bags.
Photos with Santa
Monday, Dec. 2, 2-7 p.m.
The Mall at Bay Plaza, 200 Baychester Ave.
$39.99-$49.99
Bring your kids to the Mall at Bay Plaza and give them an unforgettable experience as they meet and get their pictures taken with Santa Claus. The stunning Christmas decorations and beautifully designed Santa setup is sure to make for pictures of children that will be cherished for many years.
For more information, visit https://mallatbayplaza.com/event/Photos-with-Santa/2145586127/.
Holiday Train Show
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd.
$15-$35
Celebrate the holiday season by visiting this winter wonderland to see the enchanting train displays. The miniature cityscape features lively model trains and plant-based replicas of notable New York landmarks. With unique holiday gifts, yummy treats, a festive decor and twinkling lights, there is fun to be had at this event for people of all ages.
For more information, visit https://www.nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show-2024/.
Woodlawn Wednesday: Forest Restoration at Van Cortlandt Park
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Woodlawn Playground, Van Cortlandt Park
Free
Take part in this important volunteer effort to help restore the woodlands on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park. Make new friends with fellow volunteers as you help remove invasive species, maintain the trails and plant new trees. Gloves, tools and other necessary equipment will be provided. Interested attendees are asked to wear long sleeves, pants and sturdy shoes, and to bring water and snacks.
For more information, visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2024/12/04/woodlawn-wednesdays-forest-restoration-at-van-cortlandt-park.
Craft Corner: Ugly Sweaters
Thursday, Dec. 5, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Morrisania Library, 610 East 169th St.
Free
Kids can enjoy an afternoon of hands-on crafting at the Morrisania Library, where they will use the materials provided to design and decorate their own holiday sweaters. A variety of materials will be available for use, including pom-poms, tinsel, fabric paints and much more.
For more information, visit https://www.nypl.org/events/programs/2024/12/05/craft-corner.
