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I used to dread figuring out what to bring for lunch every day. While there are microwaves at my workplace, I prefer to not carry my hot lunch container down the hallway to my office. I usually walk during my scheduled lunch time and then eat at my desk. Since I’m also trying to eat healthier, salads are a good option. Although my husband, who helps prepare my lunch in the morning may not agree, as he’s the one who preps the lettuce each morning for me (chopping, rinsing and spinning it in the salad spinner). However, he knows how much I look forward to lunch when I have one of these salads, so he continues to help me out! Although I’ve tried many different lunch recipes and salads, the four salads below are my favorites and are on a weekly rotation.
Falafel Salad – My favorite salad from Chop’t (the salad chain) was the Kebab Cobb Salad with Falafel. Sadly, they stopped making it. While it was delicious, my wallet is happy not spending the hefty price tag for it. I don’t have an actual recipe, but I’ve done my best to recreate it.
I start with a base of chopped romaine lettuce. Then I add cooked falafel (my quick go-to is the Trader Joe’s frozen falafel), halved grape tomatoes, crumbled feta, red onion (pickled red onion instead, if I’m feeling motivated to make them) and then I bring a bag of crushed pita chips to top the salad with, right before eating. I enjoy the nice crunch and flavor they give. Dressing-wise I like to use this Marzetti dressing when I can find it. Otherwise, I’ll use this Bolthouse dressing.
Caprese Salad – This is another salad without a real recipe. I start with chopped romaine and add fresh mozzarella cubes, halved cherry tomatoes, some red onion and cooked chik’n tenders (I don’t eat meat so I use the Beyond Chicken Tenders or Gardein Chik’n Tenders). Sometimes I’ll also add avocado and/or bring a bag of croutons. I bring a container of Ken’s Honey Balsamic dressing (which is my favorite balsamic!).
Orzo Salad with Grapes, Arugula and Feta – This recipe is from the food blog Two Peas & Their Pod. I pre-make the orzo and then assemble this salad each morning. Some changes that I make are: I buy salad dressing. Ken’s Honey Balsamic is my favorite. I pack the dressing separately and pour on right before eating. I also do not make the candied pecans and instead use the Emerald brand bagged glazed walnuts. I love the combo of salty from the feta with the sweet of the grapes, candied walnuts and balsamic dressing.
Mango Mandarin Sesame Chicken Salad – This is a take on the Shrimp Salad from the Creme de la Crumb food blog. Since I usually also make a salad for my daughter’s lunch and she doesn’t eat shrimp, I substitute it with the Beyond or Gardein Chik’n Tenders. This is one of the salads that takes the most time to prep since there’s so much “stuff.” But it’s so good! It has mango, canned mandarin oranges, chopped red pepper, edamame and avocado. I do not make the dressing (do you sense a pattern here?! LOL!). Instead, I buy either the Panera Bread Asian Sesame Dressing or Ken’s Asian Sesame dressing. I also add a handful of chow mein noodles on top for crunch and texture.
Which of these salads will you be making? What is your favorite lunch salad? I’d love some new suggestions!
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Happy Friday! This week flew by! I’m glad that I was able to relax this past weekend because I have a crazy weekend ahead of me! Here area quick five from this week:
1. Eating – Last weekend I enjoyed takeout from Go to Greek. I love a good falafel pita!
My husband and I also enjoyed a lunch date at Augie’s Italian. We shared fried calamari, a crab cake and this mushroom truffle pasta.
2. Reading – This week I finished reading Annie Bot by Sierra Greer. This was another book that I didn’t love, which is disappointing, since my reading time is so limited. However, I picked up two new books from the library that I am excited to start reading.
4. Watching – I’ve been watching season 1 of Life & Beth on Hulu. My husband and I tried watching this together when it first came out but we weren’t into it. Since season 2 just came out I decided to give it another try and I’ve been really enjoying it.
My husband and I watched the first episodes of Fallout (Prime) and Baby Reindeer (Netflix) this week. Very different shows! Fallout was very confusing and violent. I may give the second episode a try but will likely need to read the online episode summary again to help explain what is going on. Baby Reindeer was kind of disturbing. I’ll be continuing watching this show because I’m so intrigued. It’s based on a true story which is kind of scary.
5. Warm weatherand cute cats – It’s finally starting to warm up and actually feel like spring. We were able to open the windows a couple of days this week. Blackjack was sitting and enjoying himself in the kitchen window when Ollie had to come up and squeeze himself in. There will hopefully be lots of open window time next week when the temps are supposed to hit 81 on Monday!
The weather is warming up and I am looking forward to spending more time outside. There is so much going on this month. Check out some of the May Events taking place in Westchester County (and the surrounding area). Plan some family fun or a date night out to take advantage of all of fun!
Comedy:
Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in May. Upcoming shows include Chris Porter (May 2-4), Steve Rannazzisi (May 9-11), Radel Ortiz (May 17-18) and D.L. Hughley (May 24-26). *Check the site for the full lineup
Yonkers Comedy Club (Yonkers) Enjoy a comedy show at the Yonkers Comedy Club. May shows include Made You Laugh! with Christy Miller, Ryan Dempsey, Ray Hada and Victoria Arnstein (May 1), NNFA Live with Dave Temple and Derek Gaines featuring Lubi Popovic (May 3-4), Humor Heals comedy show for Parkinson’s Foundation (May 11) Mike Vecchione (May 10-12), Lethal Laughs! (May 16), Juan Villareal (May 17-19), Sean Todd (May 24-26) and Vishnu Vaka (May 31-June 2). *Check the site for the full lineup
May 3 (Tarrytown) Kevin Nealon at Tarrytown Music Hall. 8 PM. Tickets: $41-$54
Kevin Nealon is an Emmy and SAG-nominated actor and comedian who sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and received critical acclaim for his role in the hit Showtime series Weeds. Kevin currently produces and hosts his digital series Hiking with Kevin, and tours his stand-up globally. He will be releasing his latest book, I Exaggerate: My Brushes with Fame (Abrams), on October 25, 2022. Part art book, part memoir — the book is full of original full-color caricatures Kevin has created along with funny, endearing personal essays about his famous friends.
Nealon’s extensive television credits include the CBS sitcom, Man With a Plan, in which he starred alongside Matt LeBlanc; Showtime’s Weeds, which ran for eight seasons and was honored at the 2006, 2007 and 2009 Golden Globes with nominations for “Best Television Series Comedy or Musical.” In 2007 and 2009, Weeds was nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Award for “Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.” Additional television roles include two critically acclaimed stand-up specials for Showtime; and a number of appearances on Hot In Cleveland, Franklin & Bash, Monk, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Still Standing.
May 4 (Mamaroneck) Ladies ofLaughterat the Emelin Theatre. 8 PM. For over twenty years, Ladies of Laughter has served as a launching pad for female comedic talent, with past participants ranging from Amy Schumer to Melissa Rauch. Buy your tickets soon because these ladies typically sell out! Featuring Erin Jackson, Becky Veduccio, Julia Scotti and Cyndi Cecil. Tickets: $37-$47
May 16 (Peekskill) Jordan Klepper – Suffering Fools at Paramount Hudson Valley. 7:30 PM. Tickets: $35-$49.50. Best known for his work on The Daily Show and his Emmy-nominated specials, Klepper has carved out a niche for himself in the realm of political satire. From his groundbreaking coverage of the gun safety debate in “Jordan Klepper Solves Guns” to his eye-opening docuseries on activism, Klepper fearlessly dives into the heart of the political landscape.
In “Suffering Fools,” Klepper shares personal stories from his time on the road, including run-ins with Presidents, failures in the entertainment world, and encounters with the colorful characters of anarchy. With his unique blend of humor and candor, Klepper explores our universal desires and exposes our collective idiocies, offering a hilarious and insightful commentary on the absurdity of our current moment. What a foolish time to be alive.
May 25 (Larchmont) Comedy from Scratch at The Idea Kitchen. Comedy From Scratch is where you go in Westchester County to hear top comics from TV and NYC’s major clubs performing long sets on an intimate stage. Past performers include comedians from HBO, Netlfix, Colbert, SNL, the Daily Show, Letterman, the Tonight Show, Comedy Central, and more. Every month, Ben Asher’s presents comedy that reaches up into your brain with the force of a fist through the nose. Seating at 7 PM, show begins at 8 PM. $20 admission. Bring your own food and drink. May’s lineup includes Talia Reese and J-L Cauvin.
May 31 (Mamaroneck) Greg Fitzsimmons at the Emelin Theatre. 8 PM. Tickets: $40-$50. Mixing an incisive wit with scathing sarcasm, Greg Fitzsimmons has achieved success as a stand-up, an Emmy-Award-winning writer, and host on TV, radio and his own podcast, FitzDog Radio. A regular with Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Kimmel, Greg has made more than 50 visits to The Howard Stern Show.
Date Night/Girls Night Out:
May 1 (New Rochelle) Paint Night at Patsys Pizzeria. 7:15 PM. Pick your craft: wood option ($45/pp) or glass option ($35/pp). 1:1 instruction, free giveaways. No art experience required. Eat and drink while you paint (food and drink sold separately). Reservations required. Call Lisa (914) 774-2538.
May 4 (Briarcliff Manor) May the 4thPaint Night at A Maze in Pottery. 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Ages 15+ Get ready to celebrate May the 4th like never before with our exciting pottery class (BYOB21+)! Get ready for a fun-filled night of painting and sipping with fellow enthusiasts. And the best part? You’ll create a unique work of art, a testament to your creativity and love for Star Wars. May the 4th be with you as you embark on this galactic adventure in our Star Wars-themed sip-and-paint pottery class!Projects include: Mandalorian Dinner Plate $46.90, Yoda Salad Plate $36.90, Yoda or Darth Vader or Yoda Mug $36.90
May 5 (Mohegan Lake) Cinco De Mayo Boozy Sip & Decorate Cookie Decorating Class at Argonne Rose Brewing. 12 PM – 2 PM. $55/person. Join us on Cinco De Mayo for an afternoon of creativity and indulgence at our Sip & Decorate cookie decorating class. The Duchess of Desserts will guide you through the art of cookie decorating with hands-on instruction, all materials provided, and a complimentary drink of your choice. Limited spaces available. Grab your tickets now!
May 11 (Montgomery) Wine & Design: Amy’s Floral Succulent Garden Workshop at City Winery Hudson Valley. 3:30 PM (doors open 3 PM). $75/ticket. First Session; Succulent Garden Workshop. Design your very own succulent garden using a variety of succulents such as; echeveria, dracaena, haworthia, jade and much more. Designed in a white ceramic bowl and accented with driftwood and stones. All care instructions and supplies included.
May 17 (Briarcliff Manor) Adult Sip ‘n Paint Class: Birdhouse Votives at A Maze in Pottery. 6:15 PM – 8:00 PM. Join us for an unforgettable evening of creativity, relaxation, and socializing at our Adult Sip and Paint Pottery class! This 21+ event offers the perfect blend of artistic expression and leisure, allowing you to unleash your inner artist while enjoying your favorite beverages in a laid-back atmosphere. Bring your own bottle (BYOB) and prepare to indulge in a fun-filled pottery painting session. Our experienced instructors will guide you step-by-step of painting those charming birdhouse tea light votives, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any space. No prior painting or pottery experience is required—bring your enthusiasm and willingness to explore your creative side! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a first-time painter, our class is designed to cater to all skill levels. You’ll be free to unleash your imagination and customize your birdhouse tea light votive with your unique style and color palette.PRICE: 2 Votives (Various Sizes) $49.90, 3 Votives (Various Sizes) $67.90
May 31 (Montgomery) Murder Mystery Manhattan Presents: Saturday Night Fever Drag BINGO at City Winery Hudson Valley. 7 PM (doors open at 6 PM). $40/ticket. Saturday Night Fever Tony Marinara and Stephanie Mangina reunite to open a new disco and are having a fun Bingo fundraiser to look for investors. Tony’s main squeeze, Annette, is there to knock Stephanie out of the running – or just knock her out? Steer clear of the drama, play bingo and win prizes!
Eat & Drink:
Taste of Westchester Cooking Demo Classes: (restaurants throughout Westchester County) Enjoy cooking demos from local chefs and then sample their creations. There are many May classes including: Via Veroli (May 1), Meraki Taverna (#2) (May 4), Apiary (#2) (May 7), The Horse & Hound Inn (May 9), Hayfield’s Market Cafe & Florist (May 13), AJ’s Burgers (May 14), Augustine’s Salumeria (May 18), Zwilling Cooking Studio: Chop Chop! (May 21) and TaqueRio Taco Bar (May 22).
May 2 (Pleasantville) Cheese 101 at Second Mouse Cheese Shop. 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM. $60/person. 4 simple ingredients, 5 basic categories, 1000s years’ history and a million stories. From fundamental practicalities to outrageous indulgences, artisanal cheeses fascinate us. Come learn why we all love cheese. Join Second Mouse Cheese Shop owner Ivy for an array of delicious cheese samplings, beautiful wines to pair and a hefty dose of fun insights to the world of turophilia. Cheese & Wine & Instruction are included in the price of your ticket. A good time guaranteed.
May 5 (Dobbs Ferry) Mezcal Tasting at Half Moon. 2 PM – 5 PM. No reservations required for the tasting. Free of charge. Join us for an unforgettable Mezcal tasting experience! Savor the rich flavors and cultural heritage with one of Mexico’s finest Mezcal, Arráncame la Vida from Puebla State, Mexico. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you sip and savor premium Mezcals, perfectly paired with delicious bites.
May 9 (Poughkeepsie) Sunset Sensations at Locust Grove Estate. 5:30-7:30 PM. $37/ticket. Sample culinary tastings from a celebrated Hudson Valley Chef, Austin Flores of Flores Food Truck, Catering, and Tapas paired with three fine tastes of wine and a wine presentation from a celebrated Hudson Valley Wine Merchant Expert! Round out the evening with a tour of our heirloom flower gardens or kitchen gardens that inspire our celebrated local chef!
May 10-11 (Catskills) Catskill Cuisine at Bethel Woods. It’s a weekend of gourmet goodness with an exciting lineup of A-list Food Network Celebrity Chefs! Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join us for a weekend of unforgettable experiences. Check out the link to see the full schedule of events and to purchase tickets.
May 11 (Rye) Suds on the Sound Craft Beer Festival at Rye Town Park. 2 PM. Designated Driver Ticket: $25, General Admission $55, Premium VIP admission $125. Join us at Rye Town Park for an unforgettable day of craft beer, good vibes, and great company! Get ready to indulge in a wide variety of unique and flavorful brews from renowned breweries. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun outing, this event is perfect for you! At SUDS ON THE SOUND, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a wide range of craft beers from local and national breweries. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Engage with fellow beer enthusiasts, learn about the brewing process, and discover new favorites.
May 16 (Pleasantville) Cheese 204: Cheese and Chocolate at Second Mouse Cheese Shop. 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM. $65/ticket. The perfect Mothers’ Day Gift! It’s CandyLand for grown-ups! None of us are strangers to the comforting qualities of some foods. Rarely, though, do we consider combining them. Cheese and chocolate may sound like odd bedfellows, but we’re thrilled to prove to you otherwise. We’ll rely mostly on dark chocolates and combine them with each of the five major cheese categories for an in-depth exploration of why these wondrously nutritious yet decadent products work so well. From fermentation, to sweet-salty balance, to infusions and probably a stiff drink or two, this’ll be a night to remember. Join Second Mouse Cheese Owner Ivy for a night of truly atypical gastronomical joy. Tickets include cheese, chocolate and all the appropriate booze.
May 21 (New Rochelle) Bartender Class at Patsy’s Pizzeria. 6-9 PM. $45/person. Join us for an exciting and interactive bartending class. Enjoy a wonderful evening learning the art of mixology, where you’ll not only craft delicious drinks but also indulge in delectable bites. Call to reserve your spot.
Adult Classes & Workshops:
May 5,12, 19, 26 (Katonah) Gardening Sundays at Lasdon Park. 10 AM – 12 PM. Enhance your gardening skills and plant knowledge by working side by side with the gardeners at Lasdon Park. Tasks include planting, watering, weeding, pruning, staking, deadheading, potting up, and more! Registration required. You must be at least 16 years or older to volunteer.
May 5 (Katonah) The Beauty of Bulbs at Lasdon Park. 1 PM – 2 PM. Free. Join Lasdon staff for a tour of the gardens in spring. View some of the thousands of bulbs planted throughout the property. See what’s in flower at this time of the year. Meet at the Entrance Kiosk. This is a rain or shine program, please dress accordingly.
May 5 (Katonah) Walking Tour of Flowering Shrubs at Lasdon Park. 11 AM – 12 PM. Free. Join a walking tour of fragrant lilacs, colorful azaleas and other spring flowering shrubs. The walk begins at 11:00 am by the Green Entrance Gate off the top level of the parking lot. No registration is necessary. Call 914 864-7264 for further information.
May 6 (Katonah) Sawmill River Audubon Bird Walk at Muscoot Farm. 8 AM – 10 AM. Come to the farm for an early morning bird walk with Anne Swaim of Saw Mill River Audubon. Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars. The walk leaves from the parking lot. While this guided walk is free, registration is required at www.sawmillriveraudubon.org.
May 7, 14, 21, 28 (Katonah) Gardening Tuesdays! at Lasdon Park. 10 AM. Enhance your gardening skills and plant knowledge by working side by side with the gardeners at Lasdon Park. Tasks include planting, watering, weeding, pruning, staking, deadheading, potting up, and more! Registration required. You must be at least 16 years of age. Please complete the volunteer form on the website.
May 8 (Bedford) Parenting and Safety in the Age of Fentanyl at the Bedford Playhouse. 7 PM. Tickets: $15. Fentanyl has changed the game when it comes to navigating adolescence and parenting. It has caused a record number of overdoses and left parents feeling helpless about what to do. New dangerous substances are appearing on the streets. Join us for this informative, interactive session to learn critical information about fentanyl as well as useful strategies for preventing tragic consequences. Tammi Jacobs Shulman will share her experience and expertise as a forensic scientist who specializes in controlled substances and Donna Volpitta, Ed.D. will share The Resilient Mindset Model to give insights about the brain science of decision-making, including alcohol, marijuana, and other risky decisions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn actionable strategies for parenting in the age of fentanyl.
May 18 (Katonah) Blacksmithing Workshop at Muscoot Farm. 9 AM – 2 PM. Register for this unique full-day workshop with Master Blacksmith, Bill Fitzgerald, to make your own items in our blacksmith shop. Workshop is from 9am-2pm, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a lunch. Pre-registration and a fee are required. Workshop is available for adults 18 and older.
Family Fun:
May 2 (Yonkers) Barks & Brews at Ridge Hill. 6 PM – 8 PM. Grab your furry friends and make your way to the Ridge Hill Dog Park on the first Thursday of the month for the doggone happiest hour of all. Enjoy beer from The Bronx Beer Hall, games, dog treats and more! This event is subject to cancellation due to weather. Cancellation notices will be posted on our social media (@shopridgehill) and website.
May 2 (Briarcliff Manor) You’n’Me Class: Mother’s Day Project at A Maze in Pottery. 3:00 PM-4:00 PM. Calling all Mommies & Daddies with their little ones for Mother’s day Gift Workshop. We will help you and your child to create this beautiful dinner-size plate decorated with their foot or handprints! A great gift for mom, grandma and auntie. Kids ages: Babies and toddlers. Price: Painter $36.90+ tax
May 2 (Briarcliff Manor) Mother’s Day Gift Kids Class at A Maze in Pottery. 4:15 PM-5:15 PM. Create the best ever Mother’s Day Gift! Come and paint a fun teacup-shaped planter with us that will bring a sweet smile to your mom’s face. We will use “Make and Take” paints, so the project will be ready to take home the same day. The flower pot will be pre-glazed inside to be waterproof. We will also give you a pack of spring flowers and a soil disc so you and your mom can enjoy planting together. Ages: 6+ Price: 1 Painter $36.90+ tax, 2 Painters $66.90, 3 Painters $96.90
May 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26, 30-31 (Katonah) Patterns in Nature at Lasdon Park. 10:00 AM – 4 PM. $7-$12 Imagine stepping into an enchanting journey through six beautifully designed rooms, each one a gateway unlocking the mysteries of patterns around us. From the intricate dance of leaves and petals, symphonies of colors that seem to be painted by the wind, to the captivating designs carved into the landscape by rivers and streams — this exhibit is a treasure trove of interactive, educational, and sheer fun discoveries for the entire family. Search for butterfly patterns, solve riddles, touchscreen puzzles, and so much more!Join us for an unforgettable exploration that promises to delight, educate, and inspire minds young and old. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the world in a way you never have before, and perhaps, ignite a lifelong love for nature in your little explorers!
May 3 – 5 (Tarrytown) Spring Crafts at Lyndhurst. Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM, Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM, Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM. Tickets $6-$16. The Spring Craft Show by Artrider at Lyndhurst returns from May 3rd through May 5th with 200 craftspeople and makers! Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, weddings, or just for yourself! Visitors can spend the day with family and friends shopping for original fashions, accessories, jewelry, home décor, furniture, photography, fine art, and functional and sculptural works in ceramics, glass, metal, wood, mixed media, and more! Plus enjoy gourmet specialties, tastings from local distilleries, craft demos, and family activities!
May 3 (Yonkers) Free First Fridays: Mariachi for May at the Hudson River Museum. 5 PM – 8 PM. Free. Celebrate the beautiful month of May—and upcoming Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day—with live mariachi music! Mariachi Citlalli, one of the most successful mariachi bands in New York, are third-generation performers that have been celebrating Mexican culture through their music throughout the metropolitan area since 2000. Experience traditional and contemporary sounds and rhythms of this unique and festive art form, with dancers performing selections from the Indigenous celebrations for which mariachi was named. Performances will take place at 6 and 7pm (in the HRM Courtyard, weather permitting). Enjoy our current exhibitions, as well as a bilingual art workshop with Carolina Amarillo. Cash bar.
May 4and 5 (Yonkers) Yonkers Art Weekend. Check the website for the complete schedule of events. The two-day festival is filled with exciting programs, workshops, exhibitions and much more!YAW attracts more than 10,000 visitors a year to City galleries, the Carpet Mills Arts District, Hudson River Museum and Untermyer Gardens.
May 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-27 (Poughkeepsie) Fairy House Hunt at Locust Grove. 10 AM – 3PM. Tickets $10. Enjoy this fabulous outdoor scavenger hunt for whimsical and adorable Fairy Houses hidden among the blooming flowers and trees at Locust Grove! Each Fairy House celebrates a different heirloom flower or historic tree that grows on our gorgeous property. Strap on your wings and crown, and fly on over to this beloved annual family event! Fairy House happens every weekend in May and June and Monday, May 27. Tickets are non-refundable or transferable unless the event is canceled by Locust Grove.
May 4-5,11-12,18-19, 25-27 (Katonah) May Art Show at Muscoot Farm. Delight in original artwork by local artists from the Westchester Watercolor Collective. There will be a wide selection of subjects and painting styles for you to enjoy. Originals, prints, greeting cards and mugs on exhibit and for sale. Participating artists are Amy Galinko, Julie Gherardi , Lori McQueeney, Carol Rapport-Sommer and Trude Ritz.Please join us any weekend in May, as well as for the Artists Reception on Sunday, May 5 at 1pm – 3:30pm.
May 4 and 12 (Scarsdale) Target Archery Tournament at Greenburgh Nature Center. 9 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 4 PM. Ages 10+. $30/archer. Adults are encouraged to participate. Pre-registration is required. A family fun tournament with every archer being guaranteed at least 3 competitive rounds. New to target archery or never used a bow before – no worries as we will start the day with instructional and warm up rounds. Depending on age and experience archers will be shooting from various distances. We have everything needed includingbows, arrows, targets and prizes. Of course you can bring your own bows-compound or recurve (non-sighted bows only). Only Nature Center arrows will be used.
May 4 (Katonah) MorningFarm Chores at Muscoot Farm. 8:30 AM – 10 AM. Become a farmer for a day and join our staff as you feed, clean, and care for our animals! Pre-registration is required; $25 for a group of two; available to children ages 6 – 14. Participants will meet at Muscoot’s Reception Center with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
May 5 (Ossining) Fine Feathered Friendsat Teatown. 11 AM – 12 PM. $5/members, $10/non-members. Spring has sprung and birds are on the wing, migrating to their breeding grounds. Meet Teatown’s favorite avian animal ambassadors, see specimens, and learn about their amazing adaptations.
May 5 (Katonah) Gifts for Mom at Lasdon Park. 2 PM – 3:30 PM. $20/participant. Come make a special gift for Mom. Participants will decorate a flowerpot before planting in it and make a handmade card. Attendance Limit: 10 Class will be held in the studio.
May 5 (Mamaroneck) Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friendspresented by Theaterworks USA at The Emelin Theatre. 11 AM and 2 PM performances. Approximate run time: 60 minutes. Recommended ages: 5-9, Tickets: $19/kids, $24/adults
Ms. Greer’s classroom includes three inquisitive out-of-the-box thinkers. Rosie Revere has big dreams. Iggy Peck has a relentless passion for architecture. And Ada Twist’s curiosity can lead her to solve any problem.
A fun musical based on the books “Rosie Revere, Engineer;” “Iggy Peck, Architect;” and “Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty, which spotlights the STEM curriculum (focusing on science, technology, engineering and math).
May 6, 13, 20 (Katonah) Park and Readat Muscoot Farm. 11 AM – 11:45 AM. Park and Read is a read-aloud program aimed at fostering a love for reading in children ages 3-6, taking place in picturesque Westchester County Parks. While registration is not required, it is strongly encouraged as walk-in availability may be limited.
May 8 (White Plains) Rock the Block with White Plains High school Mariachi Band Salcedo’s Latin Soul in Downtown White Plains. 5:30 – 8:30 PM. Free. Join us every second Wednesday from May through August for electrifying live music and an expanded outdoor dining experience right onto Mamaroneck Ave -no cars, just people – transforming it into White Plains’ premier Str”eat”ery!
May 12 (Katonah) Mother’s Day Tour at Lasdon Park. 10 AM – 11 AM. Free. Welcome all mothers to Lasdon, Westchester’s Public Gardens! Join one of the gardeners for a morning stroll to admire the flowering plants here. Take an hour for yourself and see our new native garden. Stroll among the lilacs! Meet at the Entrance Kiosk. This program is rain or shine, please dress appropriately.
May 12 (Katonah) Sheep Shearing Festival at Muscoot Farm. 11 AM – 3 PM. This all-day event will feature live sheep shearing, activities, vendors, and more! The event is free and is held rain or shine.
May 18 (Rye) Opening Day at Rye Playland. $39.99/admission (wristband), $29.99/junior rides admission. Please check website for days and hours.
May 18 (Yonkers) 70th Anniversary Celebration at the Cross County Center. 12 PM – 3 PM. Free. Celebrate our birthday with music and entertainment through the decades, Michael Jackson tribute, decades dancers, strolling decade entertainers, decade selfie stations, a pop-up roller rink and more!
May 18 (Croton) The Grit Ninja Gamesat Croton Point Park. Parking: $10, Competitor Ticket: $85. Check website for times – competitors are assigned a wave time. Race, swing and move through obstacle courses at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson, and compete in the first ever Grit Ninja Games, presented by The Grit Ninja, Saturday, May 18. Registration is open! Children and young adults ages nine and up can compete in various tournaments in divisions based on age. Celebrity ninjas from American Ninja Warrior and American Ninja Warrior Jr. including Daniel Gil, Vance Walker, Isaiah Thomas, and Isabella Wakeham will be available for meet and greets. The entire day will be fun for the whole family as there will be local food trucks, beginner ninja obstacles suitable for all ages, raffles, and a professional ninja racing competition for everyone to watch. Various participation, spectating and $10 parking fees apply. Rain date is Sunday, May 19.
May 18 (Ossining) Stream Sketch and Study with Illustrator Nicki Barolini at Teatown. 2 PM – 4 PM. $25/members, $30/non-members (includes materials fee and a copy of Brooke Meets a Stream Doctor). Limited to 15 participants ages 8+. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Join Illustrator Niki Barolini and Early Childhood Art Educator Caroline Erb for a stream sketch and study session inspired by Niki’s book, Brooke Meets a Stream Doctor. Look at stream health through both an artistic and scientific lens as Niki leads a watercolor session and Caroline hikes us out to Bailey Brook for data collection and testing. This program involves a gentle walk on the Lakeside Trail to Bailey Brook, so come to draw, but be prepared to get a little muddy. Please wear appropriate hiking footwear, and be sure to bring sun protection, bug spray, water, and a snack.
May 19 (Katonah) Family Tea Party at the Katonah Museum of Art. 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM. Members: $60/adult, $35/child, Non-members: $65/adult, $40, child Bring the whole family to the Katonah Museum of Art to celebrate Spring at our first annual Family Tea Party! Enjoy fancy tea sandwiches and delicious pastries from LMNOP Bakery, create your own fabulous family portrait, and make a one-of-a-kind flower project with Flowers by Estelle.
May 19 (Katonah) Sonia de Los Santos Family Concert at Caramoor. 2 PM. Tickets: $30/adults, $15/child. Just try to not smile while listening to Sonia de Los Santos sing about things like migrating birds, friendship, chocolate, and anecdotes about growing up in Mexico and her childhood dream of moving to New York. Singing in both Spanish and English, her music will get the entire family dancing in and out of their seats (oh! bring a blanket or chair!). If her rhythms from Latin America don’t make you crack a smile, her messages of global hope and connection will. This concert takes place outdoors on Friends Field. Please bring your own seating for this performance.
May 19 (Peekskill) Laurie Berkner: The Greatest Hits Solo Tour at Paramount Hudson Valley. 3 PM. Give your child an unforgettable experience that will inspire a lifelong love of music and create lasting memories with the whole F-A-M-I-L-Y! Laurie Berkner Solo concerts are a special way to give your child a chance to experience music they love, performed live. The shows are highly-acclaimed, and we welcome fans of all ages and abilities!
$1 will be added to each ticket supporting the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater. The Clearwater is recognized for its award-winning environmental education programs, through which students investigate the ecology, history, and environmental challenges of the Hudson Valley- fostering generations of environmental stewards in local communities. This collaboration is supported by Twinkle Arts for Good.
May 28 (Yonkers) Ridge Kids at Ridge Hill. 10 AM – 12 PM. Parents, mark your calendars for this monthly playdate experience designed to help kids expand their imaginations while engaging in themed games and more! Ridge Kids will take place on the last Tuesday of each month from May to September and tickets will be required for each event. Each event is designed for kids 10 and under.
May 28th: SkyZone Inviting all kiddos to jump, skip and hop! Enjoy trampoline sports, climbing and more! *Tickets go on sale May 1st
May 30 (Yonkers) Movie Night: Wish at Ridge Hill. Kick back, relax and enjoy a movie night on the South Lawn! Film classics will be shown on our jumbo screen starting at sunset on the last Thursdays of the month from May to September. Enjoy pop-up experiences from our retailers and restaurants that will be taking place prior to the start of the movie.Seating is first come, first serve. Attendees are encouraged to bring additional blankets and lawn chairs for seating. This event is subject to cancellation due to weather. Cancellation notices will be posted on our social media (@shopridgehill) and website.
May 31 (Yonkers) Teen Night: Celebrate the River at Hudson River Museum. 5:30 – 8:30 PM. Free event for high school students only. Teens—it’s your chance to take over the HRM! To celebrate our place along the Hudson River, come share your creativity and perform in a talent show, display your art in an exhibit, and show off your spoken word skills in a poetry slam. Throughout the night, jam out to our Junior Docent Jam Playlist, participate in karaoke, face painting, and fun activities in our game room, and gaze at the stars in the Planetarium. Snacks and refreshments will be served.
Live Music & Performances:
The Capitol Theatre: (Port Chester) May’s lineup includes: Let’s Sing Taylor – A Live Band Experience Celebrating Taylor Swift (May 3), Todd Rundgren (May 5), Norah Jones (May10), Turn Back the Cap 1980’s: Jessie’s Girl (May 11), The Rocket Man (May 17) Tommy Emmanuel (May 18) and Tim Dillon: American Royalty (May 24). *Check the site for the full lineup.
Caramoor (Katonah) Enjoy live music at Caramoor this month including: Abeo Quartet (May 5), Jake Blount (May 11), . *Check the site for the full lineup.
City Winery Hudson Valley (Montgomery) May’s lineup includes: Salsa Night: Featuring 7-Piece Salsa Band Cuboricua (May 3), Lotus Spirt of Santana (May 5), Free Byrd: The Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band (May 10), Strawberry Fields Ultimate Beatles Brunch (May 11), Anders Osborne (May 15) and Broadway Rave (May 15).
Paramount Hudson Valley: (Peekskill) May’s lineup includes: Croce Plays Croce (May 2), Ancient Aliens LIVE: Project Earth (May 3), Southern Rock Fest ft. A Brother’s Revival and Classic Skynyrd Live! (May 4), Ghosts: Do you Believe? (May 9) Saxon & Uriah Heep: Hell Fire & Chaos The Best of British Rock and Metal (May 10), 10,000 Maniacs (May 11), Dirty Deeds – The AC/DC Experience (May 17) and The Sixties Show – The Greatest 1960’s Musical Re-creation Show on Earth (May 18). *Check the site for the full lineup.
Tarrytown Music Hall: (Tarrytown) May’s lineup includes: Ricki Lee Jones (May 2), Joan Osborne + Crash Test Dummies (May 4), The Jayhawks (May 5), Rodrigo y Gabriela w/special guest OKAN (May 9), Taconic Opera – Two Piano Concertos (May 11) Westchester Symphonic Winds – Titans (May 11), Krishna Das Benefit Concert for Tibetan Home of Hope (May 16), The Machine Performs Pink Floyd (May 24) and John Hiatt w/special guest Mark Erelli (May 31). *Check the site for the full lineup
April 12 – May 5 (White Plains) Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at the White Plains Performing Arts Center – Before she was hit-maker Carole King — she was Carole Klein, a spunky, young songwriter from Brooklyn with a unique voice. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing, trailblazing success with Tapestry, Beautiful takes you back to where it all began and takes you on the ride of a lifetime.
Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend”, “One Fine Day”, “So Far Away”,”Will You Love Me Tomorrow”, and “Natural Woman”; this Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical phenomenon is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget.
Performances at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, depending on the day. Tickets $47-$65/person.
May 3, 10, 17, 31 (Yonkers) Music on the Hill at Ridge Hill. 6 PM – 8 PM. Start your weekends unwinding with complimentary concerts on Fitzgerald St. every Friday from May to September. Seating is first come, first served and guests are encouraged to bring additional chairs. This event is subject to cancellation due to weather. Cancellation notices will be posted on our social media (@shopridgehill) and website.
May 3-5 (Purchase) Purchase Dance Company Spring Dance Concert at The Purchase College Performing Arts Center. Friday 8 PM, Saturday 2 PM and 8 PM, Sunday 3 PM. The Purchase Dance Company Spring Concert celebrates our remarkable Purchase Dance Community with an exciting program of works created and staged by our esteemed faculty and alumni and performed by our professional caliber students. We are honored to pay tribute to the late Kevin Wynn, a beloved faculty member and celebrated figure in the dance community, with his captivating work Sleeping Where I Stumble (2015), staged by three talented Dance alum, Paul Giarratano, Keerati Jinakunwiphat, Claude Johnson (CJ). Celebrated Guggenheim Fellow, Dance alum, and current faculty member, Doug Varone, Artistic Director of Doug Varone & Dancers, will keep the audience riveted with Rise (1993), a dramatic contemporary work. We are thrilled to present George Balanchine’s Valse Fantaisie (1969), a classical ballet masterpiece expertly staged by Professor Bettijane Sills, former soloist with New York City Ballet. An exciting commission for Dance alum Cain Coleman, entitled Shared Generation (premiere), has enabled our students to be an integral part of the creative process as Coleman brings his artistic vision to the stage with a new contemporary piece, created expressly for this season. Join us for an unforgettable dance performance!
Art Lillard’s On Time Quartet plays jazz, swing, blues, Latin, and standards from the American Songbook. Performances by this swinging combo feature great ensemble playing along with inspired soloing. The On Time Band has performed at many venues in the greater New York area and produced a recording, It’s Time, on the Summit Records label.
Art Lillard has been playing for over thirty-five years on New York’s swing and blues circuit. He is known for his ability to “read” an audience and its changing moods. Art keeps the room hopping from the first downbeat to the very last note.
May 5 (West Point) The Kite Runner at Eisenhower Hall Theatre at West Point. 4 PM. Tickets: $48 The powerful stage production of THE KITE RUNNER tells a haunting tale of friendship spanning cultures and continents, following one man’s journey to confront his past and find redemption. Told across two decades and two continents, THE KITE RUNNER is an unforgettable journey of forgiveness, and shows us all that we can be good again.
Excercise & Fitness:
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (Yonkers) Yoga on the Hill at Ridge Hill. 6 PM – 7 PM. Take your yoga routine outdoors and enjoy a complimentary class on the South Lawn. Experience yoga every Wednesday from May to September. No reservations and/or ticketing required. Guests must provide their own yoga mat. Check-in starts 15 minutes prior to the event start. Sign up for our loyalty program at check-in. Attend 5 classes and have a chance to receive an exclusive swag item. This event is subject to cancellation due to weather. Cancellation notices will be posted on our social media (@shopridgehill) and website.
May 5, 12, 19 (Bronx River Parkway) Bicycle Sundays on the Bronx River Parkway. 10 AM – 2 PM. Exit 22 at the Westchester County Center to Exit 4 at Scarsdale Road in Yonkers. Only bicyclists, in-line skaters, scooters, walkers and joggers are allowed; no unauthorized motor vehicles are allowed.
May 16 (Ossining) Sunset Series Hike at Teatown. 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM. As the days lengthen, join us to soak up the extra sun for this hike series with Environmental Educator Caroline Erb. Hike around Teatown Lake and watch the sun go down from Bergman Boardwalk. Come for one or come for all to herald the coming of summer as we approach the longest day of the year. Wear appropriate hiking footwear, sun protection, and bug spray, and bring water and a snack. Limited to 15 participants. Members: $5, Nonmembers: $10
Shopping:
May 11 (Peekskill) Mother’s YAY! Market at Station Square on Railroad Avenue. 11 AM – 4 PM. Join us for our second annual Peekskill Mother’s YAY! Market at Station Square, right outside the Peekskill Train Station, just an hour from NYC. We’ve got a lineup of 30+ incredible vendors and all-day entertainment for an unforgettable local shopping experience. Entry is completely FREE, there’s plenty of free parking, nearby restaurants and bars will be open for business, and the splendor of the Hudson Valley is just steps away at Peekskill’s Riverfront Green Park. Don’t miss this spring market experience.
May 11 (Ossining) PlantFest at Teatown. 9 AM – 2 PM. Free admission. Come for inspiration, advice, and lots of beautiful new additions to make your spring gardens sing! Don’t forget to bring your gardening tools to be sharpened while you shop! If you can, bring a cart to streamline your shopping experience. Use this opportunity to be an environmental steward—carpool with friends to PlantFest!
May 11 (Tarrytown) Spring Plant Sale at Lyndhurst. 10 AM – 4 PM. Free Admission to the Plant Sale with Registration in the link above. The Floral Demo with Trish O’Sullivan is $18 per person/ 2 for $30 if you bring your Mom!10 am – 4 pm: Plant Sale with the Hudson Valley Chapter. Of the North American Rock Garden Society 11 am – 4 pm: Muriel Fleurs: Artisan floral designer selling local and seasonal cut flower bouquets with a French wildflower flair. 2 pm – 4 pm: Nick Storrs of Homegrown Nursery will sell locally grown organic vegetable plants.2 pm – 3-3:30 pm: Mother’s Day Floral Design Demonstration with Store-Bought Bouquet with Trish O’Sullivan.
May 12, 19, 26 (Katonah) Farmers Market at Muscoot Farm. 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM. Muscoot’s weekly Farmers Market supports farmers and sustainable efforts in our area, featuring over 25 local vendors each week. Every Sunday until November 17th. Beginning in May, a list of vendors and their products can be found on our website at www.muscootfarm.org.
May 18 and 19 (Katonah) Annual Plant Sale at Lasdon Park. Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM, Sunday: 11 AM – 3:30 PM. Great selections for your vegetable and herb gardens! Everything you could want for your summer gardens is here! Rain or shine. Free Parking and Admission. Please bring your own wagon or cart. Thousands of perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, tropical, trees, shrubs and more! The sale will be held on the Conservatory Plaza. Thousands of items will be available on the Plaza. Enhance your landscapes, gardens, patios and decks!
Benefits and Fundraisers:
May 4 (Bedford) Bedford Playhouse Spring Benefit at the Bedford Playhouse. 6:45 PM. Ticket prices $500-$2,500. Check link for additional info. Snag your ticket to a night where glitz meets glam and minds meet magic. Hosted by the legendary Lesley Stahl, we’re tipping our hats to Joni Evans and Bob Perkins, with the mesmerizing Mentalist Oz Pearlman stealing the show (and maybe your thoughts!). With cocktails, canapes and sweet treats, grab your ticket to enchantment. But hurry, seats will vanish faster than Oz’s next trick.
May 4 (Port Chester) The Rye Arts Center Studio 51 Party With a Purpose at the Capitol Theatre. 7 PM. Tickets: $180/person. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of glitz and glamour at The Capitol Theatre. This party is our version of the iconic 70’s nightclub Studio 54 and an homage to our historic home at 51 Milton Road. Put on your Studio 54-inspired attire and Shake Your Groove Thing on our vibrant disco dance floor! Looking for a chill vibe? We’ve got you covered! Join us upstairs at the Jazz Mezz, a bespoke music and bar lounge experience. Delight your taste buds with culinary creations by OntheMarc caterers, and a top-shelf open bar!
May 18 (Katonah) An Evening of Wine at Caramoor. 6 PM. $2,500. By joining us this evening, you are contributing to the vibrant experiences that Caramoor offers, fostering a sense of discovery and inspiration among all who visit. We believe these educational programs will ignite a lasting passion for the arts within our community, nurturing creativity and curiosity for generations to come. We hope you’ll join us.
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Happy Friday! It’s been a marathon of a week since last Friday! It was a big week for my daughter! Let’s get into the details!
1. Hudson Valley Restaurant Week – Friday night I was invited to 179 Bar and Grill for HVRW. My husband and I enjoyed a delicious dinner that included the fried calamari pictured above. You can see the entire meal in this Instagram reel. I love trying new-to-me restaurants. Sadly, due to lack of time and funds, the list is much longer than I can realistically get through! However, HVRW is when you can get a great deal on a three-course lunch or dinner.
2. Reading – This week I finally finished reading Anita De Monte Laughs Last. Unfortunately, I didn’t love it as much as I hoped I would.
3. Track Meets – Saturday we spent most of the day at my son’s track meet. This was a huge, multi-school event. It was freezing and rainy. I of course didn’t dress appropriately so was pretty cold and miserable. Fortunately, Tuesday afternoon was spent at a different track meet and it was a beautiful, sunny day.
4. Birthday Dinner – Saturday evening we took my daughter and her friends out to dinner for a birthday celebration. She chose Polpettina in Eastchester. My husband and I dined separately and enjoyed a delicious dinner. These eggplant chips are our fave.
5. NYC – Sunday we drove into the city to celebrate our daughter’s actual birthday. She turned 18!!! We first made a quick stop at Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. There are only a handful of these fast-food restaurants in New York City and none anywhere in Westchester County that I’m aware of. My son requested a stop and he rarely asks for anything. So we had to make a stop for him.
The purpose of our trip into the city was so my daughter could get a tattoo for her birthday. Her tattoo is in memory of our cat Salem who passed away over the summer. I love that the artist personalized the tattoo with my daughter’s birth flower and the flower of the month that Sal passed away. It was mom approved!
We enjoyed dinner at Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill. It was a very aesthetic restaurant with flowers hanging from the ceiling.
My daughter of course needed a mocktail pina colada served in a pineapple!
We shared a couple of scoops of ice cream from Van Leeuwen before heading home. We tried Honeycomb Fudge Ripple and Peaches & Cream. I think this was my first time trying Van Leeuwen’s ice cream and it was so good!
6. Bed Party – Monday my daughter’s friends came over to give her a surprise bed party for her birthday. They did such a great job!
7. Youth Court Graduation – Wednesday night my daughter had her youth court graduation. She’s been attending this program for the past 10 weeks to learn more about law and the judicial process. She can now sit on actual youth court cases. This program along with her Intro to Law Class really influenced her decision to study on a Pre-Law track.
No additional blog posts this week! Sharing with Friday Favorites. Have a great weekend!
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Happy Friday! This week was busy and this weekend is going to be even busier! Lots of fun things taking place as we celebrate my daughter’s 18th birthday. Here are five from this week:
1. Earthquake – Last Friday while I was at work I experienced my first and hopefully only earthquake. I was in my office when the floor started rumbling and everything started shaking. It lasted only a few seconds but was scary! New York does not usually get earthquakes of a noticeable 4.8 magnitude!
2. Reading – This week I didn’t finish anything. My reading time has been pretty minimal and this weekend isn’t looking great either. I feel like I’ve been reading my current read Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez forever!
3. Track Meet – Track meet season has started. My son had his first track meet Tuesday night, which was also their senior celebration. This year he’s mainly jumping and competing in the long jump and the triple jump.
4. Solar Eclipse – The area where we live in New York did not experience a full eclipse. However, I got glasses at work and went out to see the almost full eclipse Monday afternoon.
5. Cooking – This week’s menu was mostly quick and easy meals. I adapted this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta recipe and omitted the chicken. We made Sheet Pan Blueberry Pancakes. I don’t know why I haven’t made a pancake recipe like this until now. It’s so much quicker and easier than making individual pancakes! We also had pierogies with sauteed zucchini and Tofu in Patak’s Korma Curry Simmer Sauce with rice, roasted broccoli and Trader Joe’s garlic naan.
6. Puzzle – I did finish this Re-marks Monsters puzzle last week. It was a fun but fairly easy puzzle to complete.
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First things first: I am not a gambler. But when my husband and I were in need of a one-night getaway, Resorts World Catskills seemed like a good choice for a quick escape. Located in the Hudson Valley in Monticello, New York, it was just a little over an hour drive from northern Westchester County to the resort. I was looking for a location where, once we parked the car, we wouldn’t have to drive anywhere else. With several onsite restaurants, a pool and (of course) the casino, Resorts World Catskills checked all of the boxes.
However there are some things I wish we knew prior to our visit:
We booked a room in The Alder at Resorts World Catskills. We were unaware that this “boutique lifestyle hotel” is a completely and totally separate building from the main hotel and casino. Staying here grants guests access to the amenities at the main hotel including the indoor pool and fitness center. However, these are located in an entirely different building.
There is no indoor connector between The Alder and the main hotel and casino. To get from one building to the other, you must exit and walk a good 150 feet on the sidewalk outside. In three out of the four seasons, this isn’t a problem. When we visited during the winter and it was a brisk 32 degrees out it was quite uncomfortable. It does get colder than that in the Catskills too.
If you plan to visit the indoor pool, bring a beach bag (this bag would have been perfect!) to transport your things. We had only brought our large overnight bags for the single night stay. When we realized that we would need to walk outside to be able to access the pool, we had to wear our bathing suits under our clothing. We also had to carry our books. In warmer weather, a bathing suit cover up and flip flops may be worn, depending on how comfortable you are walking through The Alder hotel lobby and past several restaurants in the main hotel. Otherwise, there is a changing room and restrooms in the pool area.
On the few trips that we’ve made to Foxwoods (another resort casino located in Connecticut), I’ve seen every themed slot machine you can think of. Monopoly, Sex and the City, Deal or No Deal….they have them all. At Resorts World Catskills, there were no licensed slot machines. With 1,600 slot machines, there wasn’t a lack of machines. However, if you are expecting or enjoy playing a specific branded game, you will likely not find it here. For those who enjoy table games, there are plenty of Blackjack, Craps and Roulette Tables along with a variety of Poker Tables.
There are only two sit-down, full table-service restaurants at Resorts World Catskills. If you want a special night out to celebrate you can dine at the Italian-inspired steakhouse Cellaio or the Chinese restaurant, Lotus. If there is a specific time you are looking to dine, I recommend making a reservation on OpenTable. Although it wasn’t super crowded during our visit, we made a 7 PM reservation at Lotus. When we arrived for dinner, despite all of the other tables being occupied, we were seated immediately. Be sure to check the restaurant days and hours, since these restaurants are closed on certain days of the week.
Although check-in is at 4 PM, we arrived at the hotel a little earlier. Fortunately, the check-in desk had no wait, and our room was ready to go. When we walked by the check-in desk a bit later that afternoon the line was very long! The Alder has its own amenities; Dos Gatos Restaurant, a cantina-style Mexican eatery as well as a bar. There are pool tables in the lobby and Topgolf Swing Suite is also located in this building.
The main hotel and casino has two indoor pools; one is strictly for adults 21+. There is also a small fitness center and an 8,000 square foot spa. The Awana Spa has six treatment rooms, steam rooms, saunas and a relaxation lounge. I need to make sure to include a stop here on my next visit!
We only stayed one night at The Alder at Resorts World Catskills. We enjoyed twenty-four hours of quality time together, which was our main goal of the trip. For those who enjoy gambling, and want a quick getaway, Resorts World is an appealing option.
The Details: Resorts World Casino 888 Resorts World Drive Monticello, NY 12701 Website Phone: 1-833-586-9358
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Happy Friday! It’s been a relaxing and fun week. I took a couple of days off of work for a little getaway. I just wish the weather was nicer. Here are five from this week:
1. Easter Brunch – Sunday we hosted family for Easter and to have an early birthday celebration for my daughter. We had a delicious spread that included a Cheesy Egg Bake, a Croissant Bake, Apple Pie French Toast Casserole, Seasoned Roasted Red Potatoes, a ham, hot cross buns and cinnamon buns.
My daughter requested a lemon blueberry cake. I made the breakfast dishes and my husband made this cake! We also had a store bought fruit tart to serve with the cake, also at the request of the birthday girl.
2. Reading – This week I finished Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter. It was such a cute YA romance! I didn’t realize that it’s part of a series, so now I have to read the others!
3. Mohonk Mountain House – A stay at Mohonk Mountain House has been on my Hudson Valley bucket list for years. Earlier in the week the kids visited my parents in Rhode Island and my husband and I had an early anniversary celebratory getaway. We hiked, played archery, relaxed and read by the pool and had a delicious dinner and breakfast. It was a much needed relaxing overnight and I can’t wait to share more about it in a future post.
4. Watching – Tuesday night we started watching Oppenheimer. This has been on our to watch list for so long. I couldn’t commit the three hours to finishing it, so we will hopefully finish watching it this weekend.
5. 20thAnniversary – Yesterday my husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. It’s amazing how quickly the years have flown by! We enjoyed a celebratory dinner at our favorite Westchester County restaurant Brothers Fish & Chips. As usual, we enjoyed the tasting menu where every seafood course was delicious and beautifully plated.
6. College Commitment – Finally, last Friday my daughter committed to SUNY Binghamton! It has been a long and stressful journey to this college decision. But we are excited to have another Bearcat in the family and are looking forward to her new adventure!
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I wish I had more time to read, but at this current time in my life, I don’t. During the week I try to read for 15-30 minutes before bed, depending on how tired I am. But most of my reading is done over the weekend. Last month I read four books, which averages to a book a week. It was a mixed bag of okay and really great reads. Here are my March 2024 reads with my ratings and reviews.
3 Stars:
Come and Get It by Kiley Reid (Contemporary Fiction) A fresh and provocative story about a residential assistant and her messy entanglement with a professor and three unruly students. It’s 2017 at the University of Arkansas. Millie Cousins, a senior resident assistant, wants to graduate, get a job, and buy a house. So when Agatha Paul, a visiting professor and writer, offers Millie an easy yet unusual opportunity, she jumps at the chance. But Millie’s starry-eyed hustle becomes jeopardised by odd new friends, vengeful dorm pranks and illicit intrigue. A fresh and intimate portrait of desire, consumption and reckless abandon, Come and Get It is a tension-filled story about money, indiscretion, and bad behavior.
Three Women by Lisa Taddeo (Non Fiction) Hailed as “a dazzling achievement” (Los Angeles Times) and “riveting page-turner that explores desire, heartbreak, and infatuation in all its messy, complicated nuance” (The Washington Post), Lisa Taddeo’s Three Women has captivated readers, booksellers, and critics—and topped bestseller lists—worldwide. In suburban Indiana we meet Lina, a homemaker and mother of two whose marriage, after a decade, has lost its passion. Starved for affection, Lina battles daily panic attacks and, after reconnecting with an old flame through social media, embarks on an affair that quickly becomes all-consuming. In North Dakota we meet Maggie, a seventeen-year-old high school student who allegedly has a clandestine physical relationship with her handsome, married English teacher; the ensuing criminal trial will turn their quiet community upside down. Finally, in an exclusive enclave of the Northeast, we meet Sloane—a gorgeous, successful, and refined restaurant owner—who is happily married to a man who likes to watch her have sex with other men and women. Based on years of immersive reporting and told with astonishing frankness and immediacy, Three Women is both a feat of journalism and a triumph of storytelling, brimming with nuance and empathy. “A work of deep observation, long conversations, and a kind of journalistic alchemy” (Kate Tuttle, NPR), Three Women introduces us to three unforgettable women—and one remarkable writer—whose experiences remind us that we are not alone.
Three Women was a Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Best Nonfiction in 2019. The book delves into the sex lives of three different women. Although it’s a nonfiction book it reads like fiction. I found Maggie’s story the most interesting, as it was a court case in the local news and used real names. Ultimately, I felt like this book didn’t go anywhere.
4 Stars:
Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra (Thriller/Mystery) Home alone with her young children during a blizzard, a mother tucks her son back into bed in the middle of the night. She hears a noise—old houses are always making some kind of noise. But this sound is disturbingly familiar: it’s the tread of footsteps, unusually heavy and slow, coming up the stairs. She sees the figure of a man appear down the hallway, shrouded in the shadows. Terrified, she quietly wakes her children and hustles them into the oldest part of the house, a tiny, secret room concealed behind a wall. There they hide as the man searches for them, trying to tempt the children out with promises and scare the mother into surrender. In the suffocating darkness, the mother struggles to remain calm, to plan. Should she search for a weapon or attempt escape? But then she catches another glimpse of him. That face. That voice. And at once she knows her situation is even more dire than she’d feared, because she knows exactly who he is—and what he wants.
I had heard about this book on several book podcasts. I felt like it was advertised as a more scary, keep you up at night read than it actually was for me. It was suspenseful and engaging and a recommended read.
5 Stars:
The Women by Kristin Hannah – (Historical Fiction) An intimate portrait of coming of age in a dangerous time and an epic tale of a nation divided. Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path. As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over- whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost. But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam. The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
I don’t read a lot of historical fiction. But it’s my favorite way to learn about history. Kristin Hannah has become a recent favorite historical fiction author. I will admit that prior to reading this book, I was not very familiar with the Vietnam War. Hannah weaved the events and details of the war with an interesting storyline. This was a 5 star read for me. While difficult to read at times, it was a powerful and emotional book.
What did you read in March? Do you have any recommendations?
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Happy Friday! Yes, I’m back after a long but much needed hiatus. Check out Monday’s post for some more info on the break and where the blog is headed. I get to enjoy the day off from work today for Good Friday. Then Sunday we are hosting a joint Easter and early 18th birthday celebration for our daughter! I’m still in disbelief that I will have a young adult soon. Here are five from this week:
1. Oliver aka “Ollie” – I need to introduce you to our newest fur pet, Ollie. We adopted him from the Briarcliff SPCA back at the end of December. He’s been a great addition to our family and has been a play buddy for our younger cat Blackjack. The two have become fast friends. Ollie is not really a cuddler. He enjoys being pet and purrs super loudly but he doesn’t like to be held. So, I was VERY surprised when I was sitting on the couch one night and he hopped up into my lap (as seen here) and then fell asleep! It doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it’s huge!
2. Reading – This week I finished reading Come and Get It by Kiley Reid. I really enjoyed her previous book, Such a Fun Age. This one was just an okay read for me.
4. Watching – My husband and I are watching the newest season (36!) of the Amazing Race. We also have been working our way through Season 2 of Fargo. I watched the first couple of episodes of Apples Never Fall (Peacock). It’s based on Liane Moriarty’s book of the same title. I haven’t read the book, as I haven’t really enjoyed her recent stuff. But I’ve heard good things about the show, so I’m giving it a try.
I’m also really excited to watch We Were The Lucky Ones (Hulu). This show is based on the book by Georgia Hunter that I have not read but is on my “Want to Read” list. Sex and the City is coming to Netflix on April 1st and I think I’m going to watch this as well. I never made it through the entire series, so this will be a good binge show.
5. Playing – As if the New York Times didn’t already suck my time with Wordle and Connections, I’ve also been playing Strands and the Mini Crossword daily. They are fun, quick ways to keep my brain engaged.
Photo c/o Olive & June
6. Colleen Hoover Nail Polish Collab – As a huge fan of Colleen Hoover, I am interested in her new nail polish collab with Olive & June. They can be purchased on the Olive & June website and at Target. You can purchase all eight shades in a set for $62 or $9 a bottle. Some of the names/shades include Lily Blooms (shimmery magenta), Same Day Next Year (shimmery sheer blue) and Island Time (shimmery sheer lilac purple). Has anyone tried these yet?
7. Craft Tacos and Tequila – Last Sunday my husband and I grabbed lunch at Craft Tacos and Tequila. The restaurant just opened last Friday. We enjoyed some appetizers and tacos, including this Bang Bang Shrimp Taco.
After a several month long hiatus, we are back with our monthly events posts! Spring is in full effect and there is lots to do this month. Check out some of the April Events taking place in Westchester County (and the surrounding area). Plan some family fun or a date night out to take advantage of all of the spring fun!
Comedy:
Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in April. Upcoming shows include Michael Blackson (April 5-6), Sheryl Underwood (April 12-13), Alyssa Edwards (April 18), Kev Herrera (April 19-21), and Maurice Bernard “You’re Stronger Than You Know Tour” (April 24). *Check the site for the full lineup
Yonkers Comedy Club (Yonkers) Enjoy a comedy show at the Yonkers Comedy Club. April shows include Brian Scolaro (April 5-7), Carlos Sanchez (April 7), Fred Rubino (April 13) Drew Fraser (April 18-20) and Joey Vega (April 26-27).
Voted one of the top 10 comedians in New York City by The Hollywood Reporter, Modi is one of the comedy circuit’s most sought after performers. Featured on HBO, CBS, NBC, ABC, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, and E! Entertainment, Modi has received rave reviews in The New York Times, Time Out NY and The New York Post.Modi will be donating a portion of The Know Your Audience Tour proceeds to various charities focusing on bringing relief to the people of Israel.
April 18 (Peekskill) An Evening with David Sedaris at Paramount Hudson Valley. 8 PM. Tickets: $55-$79.50. Get ready to embark on a side-splitting journey into the world of humor and satire with the incomparable David Sedaris at Paramount Hudson Valley on April 18! With his razor-sharp wit and keen observations, Sedaris has earned his place as one of America’s foremost humor writers. Renowned for his hilarious personal essays and short stories, he’s penned a string of New York Times bestsellers, from “Barrel Fever” to “Calypso.” Sedaris’s unique ability to find humor in everyday life has made him a household name, and his works have been translated into 32 languages, captivating readers across the globe.
In addition to his literary prowess, Sedaris is a multi-talented artist who, along with his sister Amy Sedaris, has crafted a series of acclaimed plays that have graced prestigious stages like Lincoln Center and La Mama. Beyond the stage and page, he’s been recognized with numerous awards, including the Thurber Prize for American Humor and the Jonathan Swift International Literature Prize for Satire and Humor. With over 16 million copies of his books in print, Sedaris’s witty commentary on the human experience has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy and literature.
Join us for an evening of laughter, insight, and unforgettable storytelling as David Sedaris takes the stage at Paramount Hudson Valley. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his world of humor, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Secure your tickets now and get ready to be engulfed in the comedic brilliance of a true master of satire and observation!
April 19 (Mamaroneck) The Daily Show Writers Comedy Tour at the Emelin Theatre. 8 PM. The brilliant comedic writers of the 24x GRAMMY winning late-night show, Kat Radley, Randall Otis and Joe Opio, are back. Tickets: $39-$49
April 20 (Port Chester) Hannah Berner Liveat the Capitol Theatre. 7 PM. Tickets: $40-$60. Hannah Berner was born in Brooklyn, New York and emerged on the comedy scene by writing, directing, editing, and acting in videos on social media and writing viral tweets. She has two podcasts, Berner Phone and Giggly Squad with over 50 million combined downloads. She was a cohost on Bravo’s Chat Room, as well as a member of Bravo’s Summer House for three seasons, and has over 4 million followers across her social media platforms. Through her viral digital series, Han on the Street, which has garnered hundreds of millions of views, she has interviewed stars such as Jennifer Lawrence, Hailey Bieber, Priyanka Chopra, Kesha, and Julia Fox. She currently is on a theater tour across America for her stand up comedy. In 2022, she was named one of Just For Laughs “New Faces Of Comedy” in Montreal. She was recently named one of Variety’s “Top Ten Comics to Watch in 2023”.
Randy Rainbow is a four-time EMMY® and GRAMMY®- nominated American comedian, producer, actor, singer, writer, satirist, host, and New York Times bestselling author, best known for his popular web series, The Randy Rainbow Show. His musical parodies and political spoofs have garnered him worldwide acclaim and four consecutive EMMY® nominations for Outstanding Short-Form Variety Series. His debut solo album, A Little Brains, A Little Talent (Broadway Records), earned him a 2023 GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Comedy Album”. Touring the U.S. with his sold-out solo musical comedy concerts, the influencer and Internet sensation’s viral comedy videos have received hundreds of millions of views across all social media and digital platforms. His fresh take on politics and current events has led to interviews and profiles by The Washington Post (magazine cover story), CBS Sunday Morning, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Hollywood Reporter, CNN, NPR, ABC News, OUT, People, and Entertainment Weekly. As the Washington Post noted, “Randy Rainbow has found his spotlight through the Internet, emerging as a viral sensation who dispenses musical comedy salve for a divided nation.”
April 27 (Larchmont) Comedy from Scratch at The Idea Kitchen. Comedy From Scratch is where you go in Westchester County to hear top comics from TV and NYC’s major clubs performing long sets on an intimate stage. Past performers include comedians from HBO, Netlfix, Colbert, SNL, the Daily Show, Letterman, the Tonight Show, Comedy Central, and more. Every month, Ben Asher’s presents comedy that reaches up into your brain with the force of a fist through the nose. Seating at 7 PM, show begins at 8 PM. $20 admission. Bring your own food and drink. April’s lineup includes Cyrus McQueen and Jay Nog.
April 27 (Peekskill) Eric D’Alessandro at Paramount Hudson Valley. 8 PM. Tickets: $40-$75. Prepare for an exceptional night of laughter and entertainment at The Paramount Hudson Valley on April 27th, featuring the charismatic and uproariously funny Eric D’Alessandro. This New York native has left an indelible mark on comedy lovers nationwide with his unfiltered humor, compelling storytelling, and a natural flair for connecting with audiences. Rooted in his Italian-American heritage, Eric’s comedic style weaves raw, relatable narratives that resonate with everyday Americans, earning him widespread acclaim.
Date Night/Girls Night Out:
April5 (Briarcliff Manor) Sip’n’PaintCrystal Glazes Dragonfly Planter at A Maze in Pottery. 6:30 PM – 8:15 PM Come for a relaxing night of art and laughter… Bring old friends or meet new ones, and have fun painting this gorgeous planter and learning about the magic of crystal glazes. Our Creative Studio Assistant will lead you through the project step by step so that you can relax and enjoy the process. BYOB. Tickets: $54.90 + tax.
April 5 (Peekskill) Matt Fraser – America’s Top Psychic Medium at the Paramount Hudson Valley. 8 PM. Tickets: $49.50-$99.00 (different packages available). This is a LIVE taped show with LIVE audience readings. Attendees must be at least eighteen (18) years of age to attend an event. Persons under the age of eighteen (18), including lap children and infants, are prohibited from attending. Matt Fraser is America’s Top Psychic Medium, and star of the hit television series on E! Entertainment. His LIVE events, television appearances, and spiritual teachings have allowed him to bring healing, hope & laughter to a global audience of fans and followers from all around the world. From heartfelt emotional readings to stunning revelations, Matt Fraser has audiences on the edge of their seats with his outrageous personality and unique approach to mediumship.
April 11 (White Plains) Paint with a Purpose with artist Marla Beth Enowitz at The Westchester. 6:30-8:00 PM, retail level 3 next to Levi’s. $40/pp. Join artist Marla Beth Enowitz for an exclusive BYOB paint night, Thursday April 11th, 6:30-8pm. Lite Bites included! All proceeds benefit Feeding Westchester.
April 24 (Bedford) Trivia Night at Bedford Playhouse. 7 PM. Tickets $20. Trivia Night returns to the Bedford Playhouse Cafe, hosted by Rachel from Rock Paper Scissors Custom Events. Play solo or as a team and test your knowledge on a wide range of topics, including movies, music, history, geography and more. Food and drink available for sale from the bar.
Eat & Drink:
Taste of Westchester Cooking Demo Classes: (restaurants throughout Westchester County) Enjoy cooking demos from local chefs and then sample their creations. There are many April classes including: Apiary (#1) (April 2), Happiness is Catering Back Country Market and Cafe (April 4), Baked by Susan #2 (April 10), Mima Vinoteca Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar (April 15), Clock Tower Grill (April 17), Chutney Masala Indian Bistro (April 20), The 808 Bistro (April 23), Albano’s (April 25), Maria Restaurant (April 27), The Sailhouse (April 30).
April 4 (Pleasantville) Cheese 202: & Wine – with Kings Crown at Second Mouse Cheese Shop. 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM. $70/ticket includes 4 Wines (2 White, 2 Red) and 6 Cheeses to Pair them alongside. Compare and contrast and find out why Wine & Cheese are forever friends. Rarely are two provisions so intertwined, so intensely studied, so varied. and so very popular. Cheese & Wine, Wine & Cheese – whichever’s your preference, it’s understood that they belong together. Join us as we explore how wine enhances the flavor of cheese, and cheese enriches the oenophile’s experience. There are a million winning combinations, but why? What do wine and cheese have in common? How does their chemistry become magic? We’ll explore the difference between two white wines and two red wines, pairing them alongside six individual cheeses to explore this intricate and mysterious gastronomical universe of terroir, fermentation, practicality and universal appeal. 21 and over only, please. Enrollment is limited.
April 8 – April 21 (Hudson Valley) Spring Hudson Valley Restaurant Week – 150+ restaurants throughout the Hudson Valley are offering prix fixe lunches and dinners for $24.95, $29.95, $39.95, or $44.95 (price is set by participating restaurant).
April 15 – April 21 (Nyack) Nyack Feasts 2024 – During this weeklong culinary celebration, diners can choose their formats and flavors from participating restaurants offering a variety of options — such as discounts of up to 20% or special menus at special prices.Before or after you dine, pair your fare with great shopping by browsing Nyack’s eclectic and exciting retail shops and services businesses.
April 18 (Pleasantville) Cheese 101 at Second Mouse Cheese Shop. 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM. $60/person. 4 simple ingredients, 5 basic categories, 1000s years’ history and a million stories. From fundamental practicalities to outrageous indulgences, artisanal cheeses fascinate us. Come learn why we all love cheese. Join Second Mouse Cheese Shop owner Ivy for an array of delicious cheese samplings, beautiful wines to pair and a hefty dose of fun insights to the world of turophilia. Cheese & Wine & Instruction are included in the price of your ticket. A good time guaranteed.
April 20 (White Plains) Downtown White Plains Wing Walk at various restaurants. 12 PM – 5 PM. Stroll around the downtown sampling different chicken wing flavors at a variety of restaurants, then rate each one to help us determine the best wings in downtown White Plains! Sample two wings at each participating restaurant.General Admission: $25 online, $30 day-of, Children Ages 5 – 10: $15 online, $20 day-of Children Under 5: Free Ticket Time Slots: 1st Slot – 12:00PM – 2:30PM, 2nd Slot 2:30 PM – 5:00PM All tickets are non-refundable. Check out the linked site to see a list of participating restaurants.
April 26 (Peekskill) Spanish Wine Dinner at Central Peekskill. 7 PM. Enjoy 5 crafted courses paired with Spanish wines. Tickets: $125/person.
Adult Classes & Workshops:
April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (Katonah) Gardening Tuesdays! at Lasdon Park. 10 AM. Enhance your gardening skills and plant knowledge by working side by side with the gardeners at Lasdon Park. Tasks include planting, watering, weeding, pruning, staking, deadheading, potting up, and more! Registration required. You must be at least 16 years of age. Please complete the volunteer form on the website.
April 3 (Rye) American Women Artists Art Talk at Rye Arts Center. 6 PM. $8/members, $10 General Admission. A comprehensive variety of prolific women who have helped shape the art world, presented by an equally impactful woman, Debbie Wells of ArtfulBuzz!
April 6 (Katonah) Saturday Rosen House Tour at Caramoor. 1 PM. $15/ticket. Free for members and children. We are happy to offer a few Saturday tours this spring! Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Rosen House is a work of living history. Discover the eclectic home that Caramoor founders Lucie and Walter Rosen built for music. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a captivating journey that’s perfect for friends and families alike. Tours are approximately 45 minutes.
April 7 (Katonah) Morning Farm Chores: For Adults at Muscoot Farm. 8 AM – 10 AM. Become a farmer for a day and join our staff as you feed, clean, and care for our animals! Pre-registration is required; $25 for a group of two; available to everyone ages 15+. Participants will meet at Muscoot’s Reception Center with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
April 7 and 21 (Katonah) The Beauty of Bulbs at Lasdon Park. 1 PM – 2 PM. Free. Join Lasdon staff for a tour of the gardens in spring. View some of the thousands of bulbs planted throughout the property. See what’s in flower at this time of the year. Meet at the Entrance Kiosk. This is a rain or shine program, please dress accordingly.
April 10 (Rye) Finding Courage: Creating Art You Love at Rye Arts Center. 10 AM – 1 PM. $40/members, $50/General Admission. Ignite your creative spark and overcome fear in a transformative 3-hour workshop for awaking new artistry. Replace limiting beliefs with empowerment. A workshop Ideal for artists and creatives seeking clarity, courage, and meaningful action. Embrace change. Speak your truth. Unleash your potential!
April 13 (Rye) Artist Talk: Silk Paintings:The Work of Berenice Pliskinat Rye Arts Center. 2 PM. A collection where vibrant colors dance across silk canvases on view in Gallery B, weaving tales of human experience and mythical wonder. Each stroke of Berenice’s brush is imbued with a depth of emotion and storytelling prowess that transports you to somewhere unexpected.
Join Hudson River Sloop Clearwater for a two-hour hike at Teatown Lake Reservation Nature Preserve to see examples of watershed protective management practices and learn about watershed protection. The program will feature Emily Edmonds-Langham from Teatown, and Tyler Van Fleet and Jessica Alba from the Watershed Agricultural Council who, throughout the walk, will explore the connections between forest health and watershed protection. Trees and forests are critical to healthy watersheds as they provide important functions including filtering rainwater and runoff and preventing erosion.
Please remember to dress for the weather and wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. Due to the presence of ticks, we recommend that you wear long, light-colored pants and socks. We also suggest bringing a hat, sunscreen, and a full reusable water bottle. Parking is available on site – please note, for non-Teatown members, the cost of parking is $7. A note on hike difficulty, trails at Teatown can range from easy to moderate, including uneven terrain. The program will require walking/standing for 2 hours. With questions about this hike or general inquiries about this hike or the Hike and Learn program more broadly, e-mail Jen Benson at jen@clearwater.org.
April 27 (Rye) Book TalkSoundtrack: Liner Notes From A Pandemic Mixtape w/Allison Cupp Relyea at Rye Arts Center. 1:30 – 2:30 PM. Free. Soundtrack: Liner Notes from a Pandemic Mixtape captures the full range of emotions, just like a favorite song. Join us for a book talk and workshop with Alison Cupp Relyea, as she shows us how we can evoke the power of music to inspire, heal, and move us.
April 27 (Katonah) Cookie Decorating Class at Muscoot Farm. 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Join Caitlin of CM Cookies for a fun workshop to learn all of the tips and tricks of cookie decorating. This workshops is for adults only ages 18+. Limited participation of 25. Cost is $30 per person. We will meet inside the activity building and workshop will begin promptly at 1:00 pm.
Family Fun:
March 8 – April 2 (Yonkers) Flip Circus at Cross County Center. Tickets: $30-$80. Showtimes are Monday – Friday, 7:30pm and Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00pm, 4:00pm and 7:00pm.
Join us under the big top tent, located in the north parking lot, across from Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse, for these amazing acts:
Acrobatics
Aerial and Trapeze
Clowns
Jugglers
Magic
AND MORE!
April 2 (Briarcliff Manor) Easter Squishies Mini Camp & Breakfast at A Maze in Pottery. 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM. Join us for a morning of fun, pottery painting & bagels! Get ready to let your imagination run wild as you design and paint your CUTE SQUISHIES IN THE BASKET Plate. You can use it for snacks, dinner or to display. Ages: 6+ Price: 1st child $49.90+tax, 2nd child (a friend or a sibling) $47.90+tax
April 6 (Katonah) MorningFarm Chores at Muscoot Farm. 8:30 AM – 10 AM. Become a farmer for a day and join our staff as you feed, clean, and care for our animals! Pre-registration is required; $25 for a group of two; available to children ages 6 – 14. Participants will meet at Muscoot’s Reception Center with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
April 6 (Mamaroneck) The Rainbow Fish presented by Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia at The Emelin Theatre. 11 AM and 2 PM performances. Approximate run time: 60 minutes. Recommended ages: 4-8, Tickets: $19/kids, $24/adults
Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s “The Rainbow Fish,” is an original stage adaptation of Marcus Pfister’s award-winning children’s story as well two of the author’s companion tales, “Rainbow Fish Discovers the Deep Sea” and “Opposites.” Mermaid Theatre has earned international acclaim for its unique interpretations of the works of Eric Carle (“The Very Hungry Caterpillar”), Leo Lionni (“Swimmy,” “Frederick” and “Inch by Inch”) and Sam McBratney (“Guess How Much I Love You”). These productions incorporate innovative puppetry, striking scenic effects, and evocative original music to provide very young audiences with an effortless introduction to the performing arts and the excitement of reading.
ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE The first of three tales introduces the most beautiful fish in the sea, whose scales shimmer in all the colors of the rainbow. He is admired – and resented – by the entire underwater world, until a clever octopus advises him to give each fish one of his scales. Further adventures follow as The Rainbow Fish finds the courage to explore the great unknown deep sea. This underworld wonderland is the perfect setting to also explore the concept of opposites.
April 6 (Katonah) Patterns in Art at Lasdon Park. 11:30 AM – 1 PM. Patterns are everywhere. After viewing Patterns of Nature, learn how they are expressed in art. This exploration is intended to deepen your understanding and connection to nature. $30/student. Class will be in the Studio. Drop off class. Attendance limit: 8
April 6 (Katonah) Rosen House Tour at Carmoor. 1 PM and 2 PM. $15/person, Free for members and children. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Rosen House is a work of living history. Discover the eclectic home that Caramoor founders Lucie and Walter Rosen built for music. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a captivating journey that’s perfect for friends and families alike. Tours are approximately 45 minutes.
The HRM opens its doors from 2–5pm with fun and educational activities inspired by today’s once-in-a-lifetime Total Solar Eclipse. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. In our region, the eclipse starts at 2:30pm, approaches 91% totality at 3:25pm, and ends at 4:36pm. The next total eclipse that can be seen from our region will be in 2079!
Eclipse Viewing in the Courtyard View the eclipse’s progress with safe tools, including two solar telescopes that reveal incredible details of the Moon’s jagged silhouette and sunspots on the face of the Sun. While you wait your turn at the solar telescopes, observe the eclipse with pinhole viewers, mirror projections, exclusive HRM eclipse glasses (while supplies last), and other safe methods. Recommended for ages 8+. Please note, the Museum is not responsible for the cancellation of outdoor activities that are dependent on the weather; all general admission ticket sales are final.
Eclipse Live Stream in the Lobby Watch the eclipse live stream from locations along its path over North America, including museums, schools, and observatories, from Texas to Maine. Feeds will be displayed on the video monitor in the HRM Lobby, accompanied by a space-themed soundtrack.
Open-Door Eclipse Presentation in the Planetarium Stop by the Planetarium for an ongoing, open-door presentation on the unique nature and history of Earth’s eclipses, and why they have been so avidly watched by astronomers. We’ll use the Planetarium’s digital projection system to fly out into space and get an astronaut’s-eye-view of the event as it happens.
Capture the Moment in Greene Education Center Pose for a photo-op in front of a solar eclipse—no special glasses required!—and take a picture you’ll treasure forever (or at least until the next eclipse in 2079)!
April 12 – April 28 (Yorktown Heights) Jefferson Valley Mall Carnival by Dreamland Amusements. Free admission and free parking. Click link for carnival hours (varies by date).
ON-SALE WRISTBAND PRICING: $37 Unlimited Ride Wristbands ($35 Cash Discount) Wristbands are for persons 36” and over. Ride Heights vary – some require an adult rider with child.
RIDE TICKET PRICING: Single ticket $1.50 20 tickets $32 ($30 Cash Discount) 50 tickets (includes 1 🎟 free ride) $62 ($60 Cash Discount) Ride Tickets for sale on site daily and online
April 12 (Mamaroneck) Chris Funk, The Wonderist at the Emelin Theatre. 8 PM. Tickets: $42-$48 plus applicable fees. Magician Chris Funk, The Wonderist, has traveled the world sharing his style of magic that can only be described as refreshingly different. Join us for an interactive world-class comedy magic show with live music that Penn & Teller calls “irresistible.” A live-feed camera and interactive video ‘brings the audience up on stage and into the act’ for a shared experience that will make you believe anything is possible. Join us for this engaging and visceral multi-media experience perfect for all ages, that leaves everyone wondering, ‘how did he do that?’
April 13 (Katonah) Animal Interactions at Muscoot Farm. 10 AM – 11 AM. Join us for the opportunity to enter one of our enclosures where you will see, touch, and learn more about an animal of the farmer’s choice! Due to the nature of this program, pre-registration is required, with tickets being $25 per person, and is only available to those 8+
April 13 (Yonkers) Earth Day Event at the Cross County Center. Free. No registration required.
Cross County Center invites families to join them for a special Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 13th, on The Green lawn, near Pandora. The fun filled afternoon will celebrate our beautiful planet complete with a strolling flower stilt walker, a DJ, and their resident Bee mascot! There will also be a special interactive Earth Day Flower Planting activity for kids, hosted by the Westchester Parks Foundation. Children of all ages will learn the importance of planting native species and how they impact local wildlife right here in Yonkers. Then, they will be given the materials to plant their own native flower seeds—some to take home, and others that will later be planted in parks by Westchester Parks Foundation’s volunteers. *No experience needed, suitable for all ages. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
April 14 (Rye) Open Mic with the Music Academy of Westchester at the Barley Beach House. 7:30 PM. Open Mic Night at Barley Beach House hosted by Westchester Music Academy. Come show your singing, guitar or band talent. Registration closes April 7th. Spots are limited for each age group and time slots so don’t hesitate. $25 Registration fee will goes directly to The Westchester Music Academy. 4:30-6pm Children 12 and under. 6pm-7:30 pm Children 12 and up. Admission $25 which includes buffet dinner and cash bar. Fee $25 per performer (Goes directly to Westchester Music Academy). Any questions info@musicacademyofwestchester.com
April 20 (Ossining) Green Ossining’s 14th Annual Earth Day Festival at Louis Engel Waterfront Park. 10 AM – 5 PM. This event showcases organizations/businesses that best exemplify Green Ossining’s ideals.
April 20-21 (Tarrytown) Spring Flower Show at the Lyndhurst Estate. 10 AM – 4 PM. Tickets: $30/adults, $28/seniors, AAA, Military and students, $18/youth (ages 6-16), Free/ages 5 and under. Enjoy a variety of flower art installations throughout the historic mansion. Shop at the botanical market, take a walk and talk lecture, sign up for a workshop and more.
Live Music & Performances:
The Bedford Playhouse (Bedford) April’s lineup includes: Nature Sacred: Where Science Meets the Soul (April 11), An Evening with Medium Thomas John (April 13),
The Capitol Theatre: (Port Chester) April’s lineup includes: Melvin Seals and JGB (April 5), An Evening with Lotus (April 6), Goose (April 7-10), Rock the River Benefit (April 11), Ross Lynch & Rocky Lynch present the Driver Era: Live on Tour (April 26) and Del McCoury Band (April 27). *Check the site for the full lineup.
Caramoor (Katonah) Enjoy live music at Caramoor this month including: Pacifica Quartet (April 14) and Lakecia Benjamin & Phoenix (April 19). *Check the site for the full lineup.
Emelin Theatre: (Mamaroneck) This month’s lineup includes Lucy Kaplansky with Goodnight Moonshine (April 5), Broadway Spotlight (April 6), Martin Sexton (April 13), Cyrille Aimee (April 18), Lez Zeppelin (April 20) and Amythyst Kiah (April 26). *Check the site for the full lineup
Paramount Hudson Valley: (Peekskill) April’s lineup includes: So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience (April 6), Mandy Patinkin In Concert: Being Alive (April 12), BENISE – FIESTA! Emmy Award Winning Spanish Guitar and Dance Spectacular! (April 13) Start Making Sense – The Talking Heads Tribute (April 19), Best of the Eagles (April 20), Southern RockFest ft. A Brother’s Revival and Classic Skynyrd Live! (April 29) and Garrison Keillor Tonight! (April 30). *Check the site for the full lineup
The Performing Arts Center at Purchase College(Purchase) – There are a variety of different shows in April including A.I.M by Kyle Abraham (Contemporary Dance) (April 6), Westchester Philharmonic: Old School, Fresh Voice (Classical Music) (April 7), Purchase Opera: Hamlet (April 11-14), Inside Chamber Music with Bruce Adolphe (Chamber Music) (April 17) and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: String Magic (Chamber Music) (April 20).
Tarrytown Music Hall: (Tarrytown) April’s lineup includes: Shovels & Rope (April 6), Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives (April 13), Dionne Warwick (April 17), Ben Folds and a Piano (April 18), Paul Mecurio’s Permission to Speak (April 20) and Madison Cunningham & Juana Molina – Not That Similar Tour (April 21). *Check the site for the full lineup
Westchester Philharmonic (Various Locations – check site for times and locations) April’s lineup includes Old School, Fresh Voice: Jaime Laredo and Isabelle Durrenberger (April 7) and Dark & Stormy: String Quartets of Beethoven & Ravel (April 21).
April 5 (Bedford) First Fridays: Breakwater at the Bedford Playhouse. 6:30 -8:30 PM. Free Event. Former Bedford resident and sailboat captain Jon Flaks leads this combo of smooth, soft rock you would hear on a yacht. CSN, Van Morrison, Steely Dan, The Eagles, and plenty of one-hit wondersongs about the wind and sea.
April 12 – May 5 (White Plains) Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at the White Plains Performing Arts Center – Before she was hit-maker Carole King — she was Carole Klein, a spunky, young songwriter from Brooklyn with a unique voice. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing, trailblazing success with Tapestry, Beautiful takes you back to where it all began and takes you on the ride of a lifetime.
Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend”, “One Fine Day”, “So Far Away”,”Will You Love Me Tomorrow”, and “Natural Woman”; this Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical phenomenon is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget.
Performances at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, depending on the day. Tickets $47-$65/person.
April 18 – April 21 (Purchase) Shen Yun at The Performing Arts Center at Purchase College. Shen Yun takes you on an extraordinary journey through China’s 5,000 years of divinely inspired culture. Exquisite beauty from the heavens, profound wisdom from dynasties past, timeless legends, and ethnic traditions all spring to life through classical Chinese dance, enchanting live orchestral music, authentic costumes, and patented interactive backdrops. Revisit a time when scholars and artists sought harmony with the Tao, or the “Way” of the universe, and when divine beings walked upon the earth to inspire humanity. Join us for a night filled with beauty and wisdom, courage, and hope…Experience Shen Yun! Show times vary with dates. Tickets: $89-$209
Excercise & Fitness:
April 1 (Katonah) Sawmill River Audubon Bird Walk at Muscoot Farm. 8 AM – 10 AM. Come to the farm for an early morning bird walk with Anne Swaim of Saw Mill River Audubon. Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars. The walk leaves from the parking lot. While this guided walk is free, registration is required at www.sawmillriveraudubon.org.
April 7 (Katonah) Spring Discovery Walk at Lasdon Park. 11 AM – 12 PM. Join a free walking tour to look for the welcoming signs of spring. We’ll be looking for new and unfolding flowering buds on trees and shrubs, spring bulbs, bird nests, and whatever nature provides us. The tour meets at 11:00am at the Green Entrance gate off the top level of the parking lot. For more information please call 914 864-7264.
April 25 (Ossining) Sunset Series Hike at Teatown. 6:30 – 8:00 PM. As the days lengthen, join us to soak up the extra sun for this hike series with Environmental Educator Caroline Erb. Hike around Teatown Lake and watch the sun go down from Bergman Boardwalk. Come for one or come for all to herald the coming of summer as we approach the longest day of the year. Wear appropriate hiking footwear, sun protection, and bug spray, and bring water and a snack. Limited to 15 participants. Members: $5, Nonmembers: $10
Shopping:
April 14 (Elmsford) Gather + Goods Community Market at Captain Lawrence Brewing Co. 11 AM – 5 PM. Free to attend. Hosted in partnership with Gather + Goods, Captain Lawrence, and Northern Westchester Moms, it’s a day to celebrate and support local artisans and businesses. Shop unique finds, savor delicious brews, and connect with your community.
