family fun

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February Events in Westchester County

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

 Happy February! Plan a date night out and some family fun this month! There are lots of February events in Westchester County and the surrounding area.

Comedy:

Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in January. Upcoming shows include Krystyna Hutchinson (Feb. 2-4), Leanne Morgan (Feb. 9-11), Laughentine’s Day with Gianmarco Soresi (Feb. 14), D.J. Demers (Feb. 17-19), Kevin James Thornton (Feb. 23). *Check the site for the full lineup

Yonkers Comedy Club (Yonkers) Enjoy a comedy show at the Yonkers Comedy Club. Upcoming shows include Guy Torry (Feb. 2-4), Harris Stanton (Feb. 9-11), Don Jamieson, Geno Bisconte and Kevin Dombroski (Feb. 14), Aaron Berg (Feb. 16-18) and Mark Viera (Feb. 23-25). *Check the site for the full lineup

February 11 (Poughkeepsie) Valentine’s Comedy Gala at Mahoney’s Irish Pub. Featuring comedy from Ryan Denisco, Patty Rosborough and Molly Kornfeld. Doors open at 6:30 PM, buffet starts at 7 PM, show begins at 8 PM. $75/person includes tax and gratuity. Glass of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries to end the evening.

February 18 (Mamaroneck) Ladies of Laughter at the Emelin Theatre. 8 PM. “Ladies of Laughter is back! Grab your friends and spend a raucous evening with some of the funniest women doing stand-up today.” Featuring Leighann Lord, Marion Grodin and Kim Berns.Tickets: $37-$47

February 23 (Tarrytown) Bored Teachers Comedy Tour at Tarrytown Music Hall. “Featuring the funniest teacher-comedians in the world! Their hilarious skits have amassed HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS of views on the internet and they’re all joining comic forces on the stage to bring you a night of laughter you DO NOT want to miss…..” 8 PM, Tickets: $34-$49. Add-on VIP Meet & Greet $20. 

February 24 (Peekskill) Irish Comedy Tour at Paramount Hudson Valley. 8 PM. “The Irish Comedy Tour takes the party atmosphere of a Dublin pub and combines it with a boisterous, belly-laugh band of hooligans.” Ticket: $24-$35

Date Night/Girls Night Out:

February 2 (Pound Ridge) Trivia Night at The Kitchen Table. 7 PM. Teams of up to 5 people $10/person.

February 5 (Peekskill) Galentine’s Craft & Draft at Peekskill Brewery. 12 PM – 3 PM, Learn to crochet a purse with Get Cozy. Enjoy a plated brunch and receive a complimentary beverage upon arrival. $55/ticket + tax and fees.

February 13 (Yonkers) Galentine’s Day on the Hill at Ridge Hill. 6 PM – 8 PM. “Dedicated to ladies celebrating ladies, gals are invited to Ridge Hill for an early Valentine’s Day soiree. Grab your girl gang and enjoy retailer and restaurant specials, entertainment, and more.“

February 13 (Mt. Kisco) Galentine’s Day Glass Painting Workshop with 22KATKRAFTS. 7 PM – 9 PM at The Hub at Hotel MTK. Tickets $39.99/person.

February 16 (Bedford) Rock Paper Scissors Events presents trivia night at the Bedford Playhouse. 7-8 PM. Teams of up to 6 players. Tickets $20

February 25 (Nyack) 1950’s Murder Mystery Dinner, Wine, and Evening of Glamour & Glitz presented by Joey G & Hotel Nyack. 5:30 PM. Ages 21+  to drink. Tickets: $150/person

Eat & Drink:

February 2 (Pleasantville) Raclette Night at Second Mouse Cheese Shop. “The original social meal – gather round the table for a plate of crispy potatoes, cured beef, cornichons and other pickled veg and loads and loads of hot Raclette cheese, melted before your eyes. A glass or two of wine, beer or cider are naturally part of the fun.” 7 PM – 8:30 PM. $60/person

February 7 (Dobbs Ferry) 2nd Annual Huntsman’s Feast at Hudson Social. Enjoy a 5 course Huntsman’s Feast (menu) hosted by Chef Matt Kay and Chef Mike Cifone. 6 PM – 10 PM. Cocktail hour is from 6 PM -7 PM and includes a signature cocktail, mixed wild game sausages and local cheeses. $110/person (plus tax and gratuity). Beer and wine included.

February 10 (Sleepy Hollow) Raclette Night at HV Writers Center – 7 PM. Enjoy a guided tasting of Alpine cheeses by Jessica Galen of Bloomy Dobbs. Then enjoy a Raclette party with melted cheese, veggies and meats prepared by Kate Sonders Solomon. There will also be wine, chocolate, French music and a fire. Tickets: $140/person

Family Fun:

February 4 (Tarrytown) Llama Llama Red Pajama Live presented by Bay Area Children’s Theatre at the Tarrytown Music Hall. 2 PM. A musical inspired by the children’s picture books by the late Anna Dewdney. Tickets: $30/adults, $25/kids (12 and under)

February 4 (Croton-on-Hudson) Teatown Hudson River Eaglefest at Croton Point Park. 9 AM – 4 PM. The program includes thrilling live bird shows spotlighting birds of prey, bird walks where you can view eagles through spotting scopes, heated tents filled with educational displays and exhibits, crafts and games for children, food trucks, and more! Tickets: $25/Adult members $30/Adult non-members, $15/Children members (ages 3-11), $17/Children non-members (ages 3-11). Day of pricing: $35/adults, $18/children. Snow Date, February 5. 

February 4-5 & Feb. 11-12 (Katonah) Tap-a-Tree at Muscoot Farm. 1 PM – 3 PM. Help us get ready to make syrup by tapping the trees! In this private group tour, participants will learn about the initial process of maple sugaring and the history of sap collection, all while using antique tools hands-on! Sessions will take place every half hour, limited to one group for each timeslot. Groups will meet at Muscoot’s Sugar Shack; $25 per group of 6.

February 5 (Mamaroneck) Doktor Kaboom and the Wheel of Science at the Emelin Theatre – So much science, so little time. . “Doktor Kaboom is having trouble picking his favorite science demonstrations! Unfortunately, there are way too many to do them all. The solution: The Wheel of Science! At least a dozen fantastic STEAM demonstrations ready to go. Wherever the wheel stops, that’s what’s next! Will we turn a water bottle into a rocket or catapult bananas across the stage? Electrocute a pickle or create artificial gravity? Who knows? So, step right up, and let’s spin that wheel!“

Shows at 11 AM and 2 PM. Recommended for ages 8-13. Show runs approximately 1 hour. Tickets: $24/adults, $19/kids (under 12)

February  11 (Katonah) Animal Encounters at Muscoot Farm. “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+.” This event is also taking place on March 11.

February 11 (Ossining) Valentines or Wildlife at Teatown. “Has a Tiger Salamander stolen your heart? Does a Barred Owl make your heart beat faster? Celebrate Valentine’s Day by making valentines for wildlife. Environmental Art Educator Caroline Erb will introduce some of Teatown’s favorite heartthrobs and lead card making.” Program offered at 10am & 2pm. $10/family for members, $15/family for nonmembers. Limited to five families per time slot. No more than five family members per family.

February 12 (Ossining) Darwin Day at Teatown. “Happy Birthday, Charles Darwin! Celebrate the father of biodiversity with Environmental Educator Elissa Schilmeister. Learn why biodiversity is so important and meet the diverse members of Teatown’s live collection.” $3/members, $8/nonmembers. Limited to 30 participants.

February 18-19 (Katonah) Maple Munchies at Muscoot Farm. 12 PM – 1 PM “Syrup isn’t just for pancakes! Come learn about all the ways to use maple syrup in the kitchen while cooking up a maple-themed culinary treat! This cooking class will be offered in Muscoot’s Activity Building for $15 per person, ages 6+. Treats may range from sweet to savory, so bring your appetite with you!” Also offered on March 4 and March 18.

February 25-26 (Katonah) Sugar Shack Chats at Muscoot Farm. 12 PM – 3 PM “Stop by Muscoot’s Sugar Shack anytime from 12pm-3pm to learn about how we make maple syrup!”

Live Music & Performances:

The Capitol Theatre: (Port Chester) February’s lineup includes: Lake Street Dive (Feb. 3-4), Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros (Feb. 7-8, 10-11), Long Island Medium Theresa Caputo (Feb. 9) and Brandi Carlisle (Feb. 17). *Check the site for the full lineup

Emelin Theatre: (Mamaroneck) This month’s lineup includes Richard Thompson (Feb. 2).*Check the site for the full lineup

Paramount Hudson Valley: (Peekskill) February’s lineup includes: Louis Prima Jr. and The Witnesses (Feb. 11), Los Lobos (Feb. 17), Broadway Perspectives: A Concert Celebrating Diversity (Feb. 25) *Check the site for the full lineup

Tarrytown Music Hall: (Tarrytown) February’s lineup includes: Mandy Patinkin (Feb.11), Countess Cabaret starring Luann de Lesseps (2/25), Shawn Colvin, Marc Cohn & Sarah Jarosz: Together in Concert (2/26). *Check the site for the full lineup

February 25 (Bedford) Medium Thomas John at the Bedford Playhouse. 7 PM. “Back by popular demand! Internationally-regarded psychic medium Thomas John performs an insightful and lively evening of readings. Witness John remarkably channel and deliver messages from spirits from the other side. While there is no guarantee that a specific person will come through, John is typically able to channel the people that are most meaningful to you and give you a message that is just what you need to hear. His readings are known for their incredible accuracy with specific details, providing unequivocal evidence of the existence of consciousness. VIP tickets include a more intimate 1-hour session with Thomas after the conclusion of the main show (space is limited).” Tickets: $85/regular, $260/premium seat with VIP Experience. 

Shopping:

February 1 (Harrison) Valentine’s Day Event in support of Pediatric Cancer Foundation at Harrison Meadows Country Club. 11 AM – 4 PM. Shop from over 30+ vendors.

February 5 & February 19 (Yorktown Heights at the Jefferson Valley Mall) Winter Farmers Market at the Jefferson Valley Mall. 11 AM – 3 PM. Located in the common area outside Auntie Liana’s. Find fresh baked focaccia pickles, olives, tomato sauce and more. Also taking place on 3/5, 3/19 and 4/2.

February 7 (Mohegan Lake) Galentine’s Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up at Augie’s Prime Cut with The Lounge House. 4 PM. Bracelets, anklets and more will be welded on site. There will also be other goods from The Lounge House. Food and drink specials from Augie’s will be available from 3-6 PM.

February 11 (Jefferson Valley) Cupid’s Sip & Shop at the Jefferson Valley Mall. 11 AM – 3 PM. Network, sip and shop at this event.

February 12 (Peekskill) Valentine’s Vegan Pop-up at Lile Boutique Spa. 1 PM – 5 PM. Shop for skincare products, accessories, plants and more. Purchase doughnuts, empanadas, baked goods and more.

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2023 Westchester County Valentine’s Day Dining Guide

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LUMAGICA: An Enchanted Forest will light up your holiday

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com
Thank you LUMAGICA for hosting NY Foodie Family. As always, all opinions are our own.

The holidays are quickly approaching. With two high school teenagers, one of which has a part-time job, we have very limited time for holiday family outings. We recently were able to visit LUMAGICA at Harvest Moon and can highly recommend this holiday lights experience.

LUMAGICA is well-known for their illumination displays throughout Europe but have limited installations in the United States. This family-friendly holiday attraction takes place at two local New York locations: An Enchanted Forest at Harvest Moon Orchard in North Salem (Westchester County) and Winter Garden at Stone Ridge Orchard in Stone Ridge, NY (Ulster County). Each location features a different theme and elements! 

LUMAGICA: An Enchanted Forest at Harvest Moon Orchard is a sight to see! The popular Westchester County orchard has been transformed into a magical forest. With over 750,000 lights in all different colors, it is a fun experience!

The lighted trail is over a half mile long and takes you through six different themed areas. Your walk will begin at the Enchanted Forest through the Magical Trees and will end at Treats and Sweets.

On your visit you’ll see trees filled with butterflies, giant candy canes, elephants and more. One of our favorite parts was the peacock light show which we were able to view while sitting on one of the many color changing benches.

The walk takes about 30-50 minutes, depending on how many stops and pictures you take. Visiting with my teenage daughter, we made many photo stops!  It is a fully outdoor attraction so dress accordingly. 

Beverages are available to purchase at the beginning, middle and end of the experience. Adults can enjoy hard cider, beer, mulled wine or spiked hot coffee or hot cocoa. Kids can enjoy hot cocoa, soda or water. Light wands are also available for purchase at the beginning of the walk.

Your visit doesn’t have to end after you walk through the Enchanted Forest. Food items like pretzels, fries, donuts, bratwurst, chicken tenders and veggie burgers are available for purchase.

There’s plenty of benches to sit at and eat and two fire pits to hang around and warm up.

LUMAGICA: An Enchanted Forest is a fun and enjoyable holiday experience. The enchanted forest was a unique theme and the bursts of color and lights will mesmerize guests of all ages. This was an outing that the whole family enjoyed and was a great kickoff to the holiday season! LUMAGICA: An Enchanted Forest is taking place now through December 30th. 

The Details:
LUMAGICA: An Enchanted Forest at Harvest Moon Orchard
130 Hardscrabble Road
North Salem, NY 10560
website
Tickets: prices range from $29.99-$39.99/adult, ages 14+ (dependent on date), $22.99-$32.99/ages 4-13, Free/children 3 and under
Family pass and group bundle pricing available

LUMAGICA Winter Garden at Stone Ridge Orchard
3012 State Rt. 213
Stone Ridge, NY 12484
*Winter Garden is taking place now through January 3, 2023
website
Tickets: $25/ages 13+, $12/ages 3-12, Free/under 3

With two different story lines, you can visit both locations for a different experience!

Tips:
*Dress warmly! Hats, gloves and warm footwear encouraged!
*Although there is a set path, there are hills, uneven terrain and steps. This may make pushing a stroller difficult.
*Although the experience opens at 4 PM, I recommend going after sunset to get the full light experience.
*Make a day of it and enjoy lunch or dinner before or after your visit at one of these restaurants near Harvest Moon Orchard:
*Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine
*Purdy’s Farmer & the Fish
*Primavera Restaurant and Bar
*The Blazer Pub

Hudson Valley Holiday Events Guide 2022

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It’s hard to believe that it’s already almost December and the holidays will be here before we know it. Although it may be cold out, it’s also one of the most magical times of the year. There are plenty of events taking place now through the new year to get you in the holiday spirit! Check out this year’s Hudson Valley Holiday Events Guide to help plan your month of fun!
As always, please check directly with the venue for the most up-to-date information.

A Frosty Fest

A Frosty Fest: (Ulster Park) Enjoy 12 attractions including a choreographed light show, a drive through Frosty’s Enchanted Forest, an outdoor photo with Santa, a walk through Frosty’s Adventure, “Jingle the Elf” stage show and more.
Dates: Weekends only (Friday-Sunday) November 25 – December 23
Tickets/Price: $21.95/adult + service charge and tax, $18.95/child (under 12) + service charge and tax, Free/children under 12 months
*advance ticket purchases are highly recommended

Boscobel Twilight Tours (Cold Spring) Enjoy a self-guided tour of the mansion, decorated for the holidays. After the tour walk the grounds that are decorated with lights.
Dates: Fridays and Saturdays November 18 – December 10
Self-guided tours at 4:00 PM, 4:20 PM, 4:40 PM, 5:00 PM, 5:40 PM, 6:00 PM, 6:20 PM
Tickets: $29/adults, $24/seniors, $17/children (5-18), Free/children under 5, discounted tickets for members

Grand Holiday Illuminations at Untermyer Park & Gardens: (Yonkers) This annual holiday light show will take place at Untermyer Park & Gardens. See over 100,000 lights that illuminate the Walled Garden.
Dates: December 9 – January 1, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Tickets/Price: Free, no tickets required

Holiday on the Hill at Lasdon Park and Arboretum: (Katonah) Enjoy the annual Holiday on the Hill exhibit and train show at Lasdon Park and Arboretum. The show has been expanded to include an outdoor display. Santa will be in his cottage for scheduled visits that are coordinated with ticket times. The Bona Bona Ice Cream Truck will be at the event on select dates. Tickets $20/adult, $15/senior, $10/child (ages 2-12)
Dates: November 26 & 27, December 1 – December 31, Thursday through Sunday
Scheduled Time Slots: 10 AM – 10:45 AM, 11 AM – 11:45 AM, 1 PM – 1:45 PM, 2 PM – 2:45 PM, 3 PM – 3:45 PM

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Photo Credit: Bronx Zoo

Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo: (Bronx)
Enjoy five lantern safaris throughout the park, ice-carving demonstrations, costumed characters and more.
Dates: Select dates November 18 – January 8
Tickets/Price: $39.95/Adult (Age 13+), $24.95/Child (Ages 3-12), $34.95/Senior (Age 65+), $20/Parking

Holiday Tea Musicale at Caramoor: Listen to live music. Then enjoy a tea service in the Music Room at Rosen House that includes tea sandwiches and holiday treats.
Dates: December 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 at 2 PM
Tickets/Price: $70/adult, $35/child (12 and under)

NYBG Train Show

Holiday Train Show at NYBG: (Bronx)
The New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show is back. Advance tickets are recommended.
Dates: November 19, 2022 – January 16, 2023, 10 AM – 6 PM
Tickets: $35/adult, $31/seniors (65+), $20/children (2-12)

Hommocks Park Ice Rink Skate with Santa (Mamaroneck) Enjoy an afternoon of ice skating with Santa and his friends!
Date: December 18th, 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Admission: $11/adults (12+), $10/child (11 and under), skate rentals: $5

Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival: (Wappingers Falls)
Enjoy 15 attractions on your Winter Wonderland Walk including a North Pole village, train exhibit, Santa’s Reindeer Barn, holiday entertainment, characters and more.
Dates: November 25 – 27 and Weekends Only (Friday-Sunday) December 2 – December 23, Fridays 6 PM – 9 PM, Saturdays 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM, Sundays 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Tickets/Price: Adults: $19.95 plus online fees and NYS sales tax, children: $17.95 plus online fees and NYS sales tax
Advanced ticket reservations required

LUMAGICA Light Show at Harvest Moon (North Salem) Enjoy a walking tour of illuminated animal structures and decorations through the apple orchards at Harvest Moon
Dates: November 18 – December 30, 4 PM – 9 PM
Tickets: $29.99-$35.99/adults + booking fees (depending on date of visit), $22.99 – $28.99/child (ages 3-12) + booking fees (depending on date of visit)
*Tickets are for timed entry

Menorah Lighting at Ridge Hill (Yonkers) “Join us and Chabad of Yonkers to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with a traditional Menorah lighting ceremony and celebration! Head to Ridge Hill beginning at 4PM for family-friendly activities, delicious Hanukkah treats, and more! Plus, don’t miss out on the Gelt Drop, featuring our friends at Yonkers Fire Department! Collect all the chocolate gelt you can as they rain down from the highest point of the fire truck’s lift.”
Date: Sunday, December 18, 4 PM – 6 PM at Fountain Plaza

Most Wonderful Time of the Year (White Plains) “Experience all the music and the magic of the season we call “the most wonderful time of the year”. From classics like “Winter Wonderland” to “O Holy Night”, radio hits like Darlene Love’s “Christmas” (Baby, Please Come Home), Elvis’s “Blue Christmas” and classic holiday songs from stage and screen like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”,”Silver Bells” and more. This concert is a merry celebration of all things holiday, guaranteed to lift your spirits and warm your heart this season!”
Dates: December 21, 2022 – 7 PM
Tickets: $43-$50

Muscoot Farm Holiday Lights on the Farm (Katonah) See the farm decorated for the holidays and enjoy some treats.
Dates: December 3, 10, 17, 5 PM-8 PM
Price: $25/family (up to 4 guests), registration required

NYBG GLOW: (Bronx)
GLOW is an evening, outdoor illuminated experience at the New York Botanical Garden. During your visit you can also enjoy ice carving displays, dancers, musicians and other outdoor fun.
Dates: November 18-19, 23, 25, & 26 December 2-3, 9-11, 15-17, 22-23, 26-30, January 1, 7, 14
5 PM – 10 PM
Tickets/Price: $39/adults, $24/children (2-12), Free/children under 2
Get a discounted combined ticket with the NYBG Train Show $54/adult, $39/child

The Octagon House: Victorian Christmas Tour (Irvington) “Celebrate the holiday season in this lyrical, eight-sided home surrounded by the sights of Christmas in 1872.  The restored National Landmark will be filled with elaborate holiday décor featuring wreaths, garlands, and the sparkle of ornaments on a grand Christmas Tree inside the salon. With the help of original feather trees and antique ornaments, the 1-hour tour will fill you in on the history of Christmas, and how it was celebrated in the 19th Century.”  

Tours are recommended for ages 12+. Parking is free but limited. Masks must be worn during the tour.  
Dates: Fridays – Mondays, November 11 – December 30 Tours are at: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM and 4 PM
Tickets: $29/general admission

Peace, Love, Lights: Drive-Thru Holiday Lights Experience at Bethel Woods: (Swan Lake) Enjoy an over one mile drive-thru holiday illuminated experience from the warmth of your car.
Dates: November 25-27, 2022, December 1-4, 8-11, December 15 – January 1, 2023
5 PM – 10 PM
Tickets/Price: $30/car

While you are at Bethel Woods, you can also enjoy Dinner with Santa before or after your drive-thru experience.
Dates: December 16-17, 5 PM – 8 PM
Price: $55/adult, $30/child

Pop-up Ice Skating Rink at the Cross County Center: (Yonkers) The Cross County Center has a Pop-Up Ice Skating rink. It’s located at Center Court near the Christmas tree. Admission: $10 for a one hour session and includes skates. Debit/credit only – no cash. Must be 5 years or 42 inches tall.

Ridge Hill on Ice: (Yonkers) “Lace up and skate over to Ridge Hill On Ice as we transform The Town Square Lawn into an outdoor ice rink for the holiday season! Guests will need to book ice skating reservations in advance to ensure a skating time slot. Walk-ups are also welcome, but we cannot guarantee you will be able to skate at that time.”
Dates: November 20 – January 29
Monday – Thursdays: 4PM to 9PM, Fridays: 4PM to 10PM, Saturdays: 11AM to 10PM, Sundays: 11AM to 8PM, Holiday Hours: 10AM to 9PM (Dates: December 26th – January 1st) Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Price: $18 (plus tax)/person includes skate rental and 75 minutes of skate time, $14 (plus tax)/children 12 and under includes skate rental and 75 minutes of skate time

Westchester’s Winter Wonderland: (Valhalla) Enjoy Westchester’s Winter Wonderland drive-thru Holiday Light Extravaganza. Enjoy a 1.2-mile illuminated drive from the warmth of your car.

Dates: Open every night November 25, 2022 – January 1, 2023 (except December 24 and December 25), 6 PM Monday – Friday, 5 PM weekends
Tickets/Price: $25/car off-peak, $35/car peak, large passenger vans/limos additional fee

White Plains Holiday Market: (White Plains)
This holiday market will be held on Court Street between Martine Ave. and Main Street. Over 50 vendors and artisans will be selling their wares in individual walled sheds.
Dates: December 9 – December 18, 12 PM – 7 PM daily (8 PM on Friday and Saturday nights)

The Wonderland of Lights (Rhinebeck) Taking place at the Dutchess County Fair Grounds, enjoy this drive through holiday light experience.
Dates: November 25 – December 25, 2022 – 5:30 PM – 9 PM
CLOSED: November 28, 29, 30 & December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14
Tickets: $25/car online in advance, $30/car at the gate

Photos with Santa:

Cross County Shopping Center: (Yonkers) Santa will be available for photos and visits in his new winter wonderland cabin. Reservations are recommended but not required.
Dates: November 17 – December 24

Jefferson Valley Mall: (Yorktown Heights) Reservations are strongly recommended.
Dates: November 25 – December 24

Ridge Hill: (Yonkers) Reservations are strongly recommended.
Dates: November 21 – December 24

The Westchester: (White Plains) Reservations are strongly recommended.
Dates: November 25 – December 24
Pet Night, Sunday December 11 from 6-7 PM

Serious Fun Arts Fest coming to White Plains

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Some people may find art stuffy and inaccessible. Parents of young children may be hesitant to bring their kids to art museums for fear of them touching the art or being too loud. However, there are many benefits to exposing kids to art, especially from a young age. Some of these benefits include improving fine motor skills, promoting creativity and helping them better understand the world around them. White Plains based ArtsWestchester has a mission, “to create an equitable, vibrant and sustainable Westchester County in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life.“ One way they are fulfilling this mission is by bringing the Serious Fun Arts Fest to White Plains. This is a five day outdoor, street art festival.

Photo c/o ArtsWestchester

Just as the name describes, the Serious Fun Arts Fest is sure to be five filled days of fun! This is an event for art lovers of all ages and is very family-friendly. The festival has been put together by ArtsWestchester in collaboration with the New York State Division of Tourism’s, I LOVE NY. Taking place from October 12 – 16, there will be public artworks, music performances, gallery openings, family activities and more.

Photo c/o ArtsWestchester

Altogether, the works of over 200 New York State artists will be featured. Some local artists being featured include Katonah ‘s Christopher Rios, White Plains resident, Erwin Ong and Nyack’s Chris Soria.

Photo c/o ArtsWestchester

The fun kicks off Wednesday, October 12th with One Martine Gallery and the Serious Fun Art Fair at The Galleria, both opening at 10 AM. Live music performances begin at 12 PM and continue throughout the day until 10 PM. Every day of the festival the ArtsMobile will be onsite, with family fun art-making activities.

ArtsMobile Schedule:

Wednesday Oct. 12 (3-5pm)
• Visual art activity with teaching artist TBD – at Renaissance Plaza

Thursday Oct. 13 (3-5pm)
• Contribute to a communal watercolor artwork and/or create a painting to take home with teaching artist Erin Carney – at Renaissance Plaza

Friday Oct. 14 (3-5pm)
• Participate in building a community sculpture from recycled boxes with teaching artist Miguel Cossio – at Renaissance Plaza

Saturday Oct. 15 (11am-2pm)
• Ceramics/clay activity with teaching artist Vicky Youngman – at Renaissance Plaza
• Visual art workshop with teaching artist Aisha Nailah – on Mamaroneck Avenue
• Paper animal sculptures with teaching artist Richela Fabian Morgan – on Mamaroneck Avenue
• Visual art activity with teaching artist Ronit Levin Delgado – on Mamaroneck Avenue
• (11:30am-12:15pm) Family Fun: Songs From the Middle East with Matt Turk & Friends (part of the Serious Fun Block Party) – on Mamaroneck Avenue

Sunday Oct. 16 (11am-2pm)
•  Art-making with the ArtsMobile  – at Renaissance Plaza

Serious Fun Block Party

The highlight of the five day arts festival is the The Serious Fun Block Party. On Saturday, October 15th, beginning at 11:30 AM, there will be live music and dance performances, a poetry jam and more!  Check out this lineup of family fun:

Performance Schedule:
11:30am-12:15pm: Family Fun: Songs From the Middle East with Matt Turk & Friends
12:30-1:15pm: Live-looping mastery of rootsy singer songwriter Will Evans (of Barefoot Truth)
1:30-2:20pm: Evolution of Cabaret (20th c. Soul/Pop Hits) with Porter Carroll, Jr.
2:35-3:25pm: Pop Now Grooves with REMY
3:40-4:30pm: Post-Rock Soundscapes with Wess Meets West
4:45-6pm: Indie Folk Rock with Slambovian Circus of Dreams
5:30-6:00pm: Reflective storytelling improv experience with NYC Queer Playback Theater.

Enjoy a Pop-Up Dance event as Westchester Dance Artists A HYPE SQUAD responds to the music from 2:30-5:30pm! (back end of concert area)

Photo c/o ArtsWestchester

The five day festival closes out with a headliner concert by Sammy Rae & the Friends. This Brooklyn-based alternative band has indie and R&B influences and will sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Tickets to the headliner concert on Sunday at 5 PM cost $25.

When you get hungry, do not worry! One thing White Plains does not lack is an abundance of good restaurants. On just the festival concert stage block alone, there are seven restaurants to choose from, including Morton’s and nearby Greca. Both of these restaurants have even created a special cocktail in honor of the festival. Take a walk further down Mamaroneck Avenue or along the cross streets and the restaurant options are endless for all budgets and food preferences. 

Come enjoy the Serious Fun Arts Fest. Whether it’s for one day, or all five, there’s something for everyone!

You may also enjoy reading:

Halloween Events in the Hudson Valley

October Events in Westchester County

2022 Halloween Fun in the Hudson Valley

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Fall is in full effect with cooler temps and everything apple and pumpkin spice. It’s time once again to start getting ready for spooky season! Whether you want to get dressed up, spend a fun fall day out with the family or want to get scared, there is Halloween fun for everyone. Check out this guide to Halloween Fun in the Hudson Valley for 2022.

*As always, please check directly with the attraction for the most up-to-date information.

Bethel Woods Peace Love & Pumpkins (Bethel, NY)
Back for its second year. “During this walk-thru experience, guests will wind through the garden trails of beautiful Bethel Woods, highlighting thousands of unique hand-carved jack-o-lanterns and glowing themed pumpkin art. Delight in displays featuring Woodstock festival icons, dinosaurs, mermaids, witches and much more!”

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
                200 Hurd Road
                Bethel, NY 12720

Dates: October 14-30, 6:30 PM – 10 PM
October 21 and 28 is Friday Night Frights at Peace, Love, & Pumpkins and not recommended for children.

Tickets: $18/adults 18+, $8/youth (age 3-17), Free/kids 2 and under
Price increases day of

Boo & Brew (Yorktown Heights, NY)
Enjoy live music, beer garden, kids’ activities, trick or treating and more.

Location: Jefferson Valley Mall
650 Lee Boulevard
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598

Date: October 28, 5 PM – 9 PM
Tickets: Free admission, food and activities have costs

Boo at the Zoo (Bronx, NY)
The Bronx Zoo is continuing its annual Halloween celebration. Children can come in costume and enjoy pumpkin carving demonstrations, the candy trail, a costume parade, Halloween crafts and more.

Location: Bronx Zoo
2300 Southern Boulevard
Bronx, NY 10460

Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, October 1 – October 30, and Monday, October 10
10 AM – 5:30 PM (weekends and holidays)

Tickets: $41.95/adults (13+), $36.95/seniors (65+), $31.95/children (3-12)
*Advanced ticket purchases are required

Parking: $20

Boundless Adventures Halloween Glow Nights (Purchase, NY)
HallowGlow events are taking place every Saturday between now and Halloween. ”Throw on your best costume and get ready to embrace fall! We will have candy for the trick or treaters and creepy music to add to the festivities.”

Location: Boundless Adventures
735 Anderson Hill Road
Purchase, NY 10577

Dates: Saturdays in October

Price: $50 for a 2 hour climb. 

Photo c/o Goosefeather

Goosefeather Halloween Celebration (Tarrytown, NY)
Enjoy, “a festive fall day for the whole family, including a costume parade (with prizes for the best kids costume and best family costume), a candy hunt and food & drinks!” Tickets can be purchased here. There is no rain date. If there is inclement weather, tickets will be refunded.

Candy hunt starts at 12:15 PM. Costume contest starts at 2 PM. Complimentary apple cider, popcorn and cotton candy.

Food Menu (beveages will be available for purchase as well): 
Braised Duck Bao, Plum Sauce, Savory Granola – $20.50
Dry-Aged Beef Potstickers, Chinese Mustard Horseradish – $17.50
Crispy Pork Wontons, Chili Oil, Aged Soy – $13.50
Fried Chicken Dumplings, Nashville Hot Oil, Scallion – $13.50
Smashed Crispy Fingerling Potatoes, Turmeric Caramel, Pickled Chilis, Scallion (V, GF) – $16.50
Kung Pao Chicken Wings, Shaved Celery, Peanuts, Buttermilk Dill Ranch – $17.50
Crispy Brussel Sprouts, Chinese Sausage, Pickled Raisins, Pomegranate Vinaigrette, Peanuts (GF) – $19.50
Goosefeather Double Cheeseburger, Kimchi Special Sauce, Tater Tots – $24.50
Chicken Fingers, French Fries, ChiChow Ketchup – $19.50

Location: Goosefeather
The Tarrytown House Estate
49 East Sunnyside Lane
Tarrytown, NY 10591

Date: Sunday October 30th, 12 PM-3 PM (weather permitting)

Entry: $10/person (ages 10+)

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (Croton-on-Hudson, NY)
This is the Hudson Valley’s most famous fall event. Enjoy seeing thousands of hand-carved, illuminated jack o’lanterns in amazing displays of artistry. Tickets are very limited for this attraction!

Location: Van Cortlandt Manor
525 South Riverside
Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520

Dates:
Select Dates September 16-November 20

Tickets: $48/adults, $40/children 3-17

*Advance reservations required, no tickets are sold onsite
*Free Parking

Halloween House (White Plains)
This is a fully indoor, immersive, family-friendly Halloween attraction. Each room of the house has a different Halloween theme. Although some rooms may be spooky, this attraction is not scary.

Location: The Westchester
125 Westchester Ave.
White Plains, NY 10601

Dates: Daily through Halloween, times vary by day

Tickets: $24.99/adult + $1.50 fee, $19.99/children (3-10) +$1.50 fee, free/children under 3

Halloween Spooktacular (with The Rock and Roll Playhouse) at City Winery (Montgomery, NY)
“Come sing and dance with the Rock and Roll Playhouse as we jam out to our favorite fun and spooky Halloween tunes… from Monster Mash to Thriller and more! Masks, costumes and dancing shoes encouraged”

Location: City Winery Hudson Valley
23 Factory Street
Montgomery, NY 12549

Date: October 30th at 12 PM

Tickets: $30/Stage Premier, $20/General Admission

Photo c/o City Winery

HallowWINE Walk at City Winery (Montgomery, NY)
“Brave patrons can experience a haunted Halloween walk along the Wallkill River, with a wine glass in hand. Guests of all ages will experience frights and delights throughout the 30 minute(ish) event. The walk is $5 at the door (children under 10 free) and will be open from 5:00-9:00 PM. All proceeds will be donated to the Montgomery Fire Department. Costumes are optional and dinner reservations following the walk are suggested.” After parking at the winery, guests will be directed to the HallowWINE Walk.

Location: City Winery Hudson Valley
23 Factory Street
Montgomery, NY 12549

Dates: October 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 and 31, 5 PM – 9 PM

Photo: Headless Horseman

Headless Horseman Drive-Thru Haunted Experience & Haunted House (Ulster Park, NY)
Haunted Walking Trail plus 9 additional attractions. The event experience will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.

Location: Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses
778 Broadway, Route 9W
Ulster Park, NY 12487

Dates: Opening Night September 24, 2022.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October, 7 PM – 9 PM timed entry, every 15 minutes

Tickets:

$59.95/person plus service charge and tax) in advance: General Admission on Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30
$74.95/person + tax onsite

*This event is not recommended for children under the age of 13
*Children 8 or younger will not be admitted
*Children 15 or younger must be accompanied by an adult
*No refunds

Special Children’s Days: “On Children’s Day, the park tones down its scare level. You will enjoy a hayride and visit friendly characters along the way.  In addition, you will experience our Magic Moon Maze, Haunted Gardens, Witch Hazel’s Halloween House, Dino Zone, enjoy music, and other surprises making this the perfect outing for families with young children.”

Dates: Saturday October 8th and Saturday October 22nd

11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

$17.95/person plus service charge and tax in advance
$24.90/person + tax onsite

Hearts of the Hollow (Carmel, NY)
“So you think you know the legend of Sleepy Hollow? Well, then come join us and see the new twists and turns of the legendary tale in HEARTS OF THE HOLLOW – a must see for ALL. An exciting new musical inspired by Washington Irving’s short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”. This special seasonal event will delight audiences with 20 original songs and a story where suspense, adventure and romance come together.”

Location: The Whipple Feeley Chapel
Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park
200 Gipsy Trail Road
Carmel, NY 10512

Dates: Weekends now through October 31, Friday and Saturday 8 PM -10 PM, Sunday 2 PM -4 PM

Tickets: $27.50/adults, $22.50/seniors, military, students 12 and under

Photo: Summer Orlando Productions

Hocus Pocus Live at Barton Orchards (Poughquag, NY)
“Summer Orlando Productions presents HOCUS POCUS LIVE!!! A 50 minute theatrical stage production based off the cult classic Disney film “Hocus Pocus”. A tribute production like no other filled with drag queens, special effects, replica props and costumes, live singing , magic, and surprises.”

Location: Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Lane
Poughquag, NY 12570

Date: October 29, 2022 – 8 PM – 10 PM

Tickets: $49.95/person + $4.06 fee

Suggested age 13+, advanced ticket purchase recommended

Hotel Nyack Halloween Party (Nyack, NY)
“Come celebrate in your Halloween costume and dance the night away in Hotel Nyack’s private ballroom featuring DJ Run The Fade. Party starts sharply at 8:00pm until 12:00am. Purchase a ticket prior to September 30th, 2022 to receive special ticket price $90+, includes four-hour open bar and passed hors d’ oeuvres. Ticket price will increase to $100++ after 9/30/22.” Ages 21+

Location: Hotel Nyack
400 High Avenue
Nyack, NY 10960

Date: October 29, 2022 – 8 PM – 12 AM

Tickets: $127.56 ($118.24 + fees)

Photo: Historic Hudson Valley

Irving’s Legend (Irvington, NY)
Performed under the stars at Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, enjoy seeing the classical tale performed by master storyteller Jonathan Kruk.

Location:
Washington Irving’s Sunnyside
3 W. Sunnyside Lane
Irvington, NY 10533

Dates: September 30 – October 31- Friday-Sunday only + Columbus Day and Halloween, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM, 9:30 PM

Tickets: Prices vary depending on date/time of show, tickets are $2 more the day of

Advance tickets required

Photo: Barton Orchards

Jack O’Lantern Jubilee at Barton Orchards (Poughquag, NY)
“Join us for our Jack O’Lantern Jubilee Weekend on Saturday 10/15 & Sunday 10/16. Fun for the whole family, enjoy live music, magic shows, Pig Races and more! Admission includes access to our Fun Park with our new GIANT SLIDE, Corn Maze, Hayrides, Petting Zoo, Wooden Ship Playground, and Dog Park too!”

Location: Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Lane
Poughquag, NY 12570

Dates: October 15 & 16 – 10 AM – 6 PM

Tickets: $27/ ages 13+, $15/ children (ages 4 to 12) Free/Children three and under (tax included)

Kevin McCurdy’s Haunted Mansion (Wappingers Fall, NY)
This year, Kevin McCurdy’s Haunted Mansion presents: “Asylum” and “The Wicked Woods.” Guests will walk an almost one mile trail of Halloween horrors.

Location: 38 Sheafe Road
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590

Dates: October 1 -31:
Fridays: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturdays: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sundays: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Tickets: From $30 plus online ticketing fee and sales tax

*reservations are required
*No refunds
*Free parking
*This event is not recommended for young children

Photo: Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce Phantom Fall Fest (Southington, CT)
“Get ready for two totally different Halloween experiences based on the time of day. Come early for kid-size thrills, then at 6 PM the fear kicks in gear. Bring the whole family and get ready to celebrate Halloween with the kids during our fun for all ages daytime event. Enjoy themed fall foods, several kiddie land rides and attractions throughout the park. It’s a whole different park after dark. With four haunted houses, three scare zones, and themed food and drinks, it’s Lake Compounce as you’ve never seen before. Get ready for screams all October long.”

Location: Lake Compounce Family Theme Park
185 Enterprise Drive
Bristol, CT 06010

Dates: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays – September 30 – October 30

Tickets: $59.99, Current online price: $29.99 (limited time offer)

LEGOLAND New York Resort Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party (Goshen, NY)
“Our signature Halloween event is better than ever this year! Brick-or-Treat will bewitch LEGOLAND® New York Resort with tons of candy, an all-new show line up, never-before-seen exclusive LEGO® characters, and more!”

Location: LEGOLAND New York Resort
1 LEGOLAND Way
Goshen, NY 10924

Dates: Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 24 – October 30

Tickets: $84.99/one day theme park ticket, $89.99/at the gate
Ticket + hotel packages available

Photo: Legoland Discovery Center

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Brick-or-Treat (Yonkers, NY)
Get into the Halloween spirt with fun activities including brick-or-treating around the attraction, a 4-D movie, monster training and more.

Location: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester
Ridge Hill Shopping Center
39 Fitzgerald Street
Yonkers, NY 10710

Dates: September 23 – November 1

Weekdays: 12 PM – 5:30 PM
Weekends: 10 AM – 5:30 PM

Tickets: $27.99/one day, $32.99/admission + collectible, $39.99/admission +activity pack +collectible + Virtual Reality

Myths and Mysteries Tour at Armour-Stiner Octagon House (Irvington, NY)
“The Octagon House is a short horse ride away from The Legendary town of Sleepy Hollow, and for this reason, Fall/Halloween is our most popular season.  Tours during this time of the year concentrate on themes that intersect the season, the house, and the surrounding area during the 19th Century.  This year, our “Myths and Mysteries of The Octagon House” is a tour that focuses on supernatural myths and mysteries about the house not included in The Classic Tour.”

Location: The Armour-Stiner House
45 West Clinton Avenue
Irvington, NY 10533

Dates: Thursdays through Sundays, tours are offered multiple times throughout each day

Tickets: $29/person

Nightmare Circus (Mahopac, NY)
Nightmare Circus is a family operated haunted house. “Step right up!  Come inside our circus tent and enter the world of an eye-corrupting, mind-distorting funhouse, where the clowns and carnies have their own definition of fun. Nothing is what it seems in this mind-boggling maze of optical delusions, death-defying acts and remorseless maniacal clowns that will have you running for the exit. Too bad there isn’t one.”

Location: 24 Sycamore Road
Mahopac, NY 10541

Dates: October 30th – Sundown – 9:30 PM
October 31st – Sundown – 9:30 PM

Admission: Free

*Recommended for teens and adults only.

Photo: Pure Terror Scream Park

Pure Terror Scream Park (Monroe, NY)
Pure Terror Scream Park is the Guinness World Record holder for “longest haunted house scream park in the world.” Guests walk through 10 different themed haunted houses filled with characters and special effects.

Location: 299 Museum Village Road
Monroe, NY 10950

Dates: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays September 24 – October 30:
Fridays – 7 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturdays – 7 PM – 10:30 PM
Sundays – 7 PM – 9:30 PM

Tickets: – Limited online timed tickets
General Admission – $59.95 + online service fee + NY sales tax

General Admission onsite – $64.74+tax – cash only
*VIP upgrades available
*No refunds – all sales are final

Scared by the Sound Haunted House (Yorktown Heights)
“Attention Kmart Shoppers! You won’t find your back to school supplies or new bathroom towels here this fall! But you will find that Scared by the Sound has taken over the entire abandoned Kmart building for its new and totally indoor haunt location for 2022! It’s now occupied by the undead (who previously called Playland Amusement Park home for the last 20 years), along with creatures from the crypt, asylum, cemetery and more who eagerly await your arrival this Halloween season.” This is a walk-through haunted house attraction.

Location: 355 Downing Drive
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598

Dates: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays October 1 – October 30:
Fridays – 8 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturdays – 7 PM – 11:00 PM
Sundays – 7 PM – 10:00 PM

Tickets: – $27/person
*Open rain or shine
*Not recommended for children under 10
*No refunds

Photo: Barton Orchards

Trick or Treat Weekend at Barton Orchards (Poughquag, NY)
“Join us for our Trick or Treat Weekend on Saturday 10/29 & Sunday 10/30. Fun for the whole family, enjoy live music, magic shows, Pig Races and more! Admission includes access to our Fun Park with our new GIANT SLIDE, Corn Maze, Hayrides, Petting Zoo, Wooden Ship Playground, and Dog Park too! We’ll have delicious food options available at our concession, and we’ll also have food trucks this year! Be sure to stop by the Tap Room where we have twenty local beers and ciders on tap. Tickets will be available at the door.”

Location: Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Lane
Poughquag, NY 12570

Dates: October 29 & 30 – 10 AM – 6 PM

Tickets: $27/ ages 13+, $15/ children (ages 4 to 12) Free/Children three and under (tax included)

Photo: Westchester County Parks

Westchester County Parks Spooktacular Oktoberfest (Cross River, NY)
“Activities at the event include costume contests for children and adults; fall treats like s’mores, apple cider and donuts; cotton candy; hayrides; campfire ghost stories, crafts and more. Captain Lawrence will be on site in the designated food and drink area where refreshments will be available for purchase and attendees can hear live music.”

Location: Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

Date: October 29th, 2 PM

Tickets: Early bird tickets go on sale, Monday, Oct. 3, 12 noon, and are available through Friday, Oct. 7. Early bird price: $20/person (ages 3+) Tickets provide entry to all activities and the food and drink section.

Beginning Saturday, Oct. 8, ticket prices increase to $25/person. Pumpkin carving is $15. Tickets to the food and drink only area are $15 per person, where refreshments will be available to purchase.

Cirque du Soleil Presents: Crystal

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Photo c/o Cirque du Soleil

NY Foodie Family was provided with media tickets to Cirque du Soleil Crystal. All opinions are our own.

Performers speed by on ice skates doing jumps and flips. Others twist in the air, tethered to the sky. This is just a hint of the sights you will see at Cirque du Soleil’s currently-touring show: Crystal.

Cirque du Soleil has been wowing audiences with their circus art performances since the company’s debut in 1984. The group started with just 20 performers and has grown to over 1,400 artists.  Cirque du Soleil’s O at the Bellagio in Las Vegas is an aquatic masterpiece. Love is a musical love note to The Beatles. Volta is based on extreme sports. Crystal is the company’s first show that brings the circus arts to the ice. 

Photo c/o Cirque du Soleil

This show tells the story of Crystal, a misunderstood artist. When she falls through a frozen pond she is transported into another world. Her reflection helps guide her on a path of self discovery. According to a press release, “The show Crystal is about looking at things from fresh angles, peeking through the veneer of everyday life, reframing one’s daily reality to see what one might have missed. Sometimes the only way to appreciate things is to look at them sideways. Discovering one’s individuality and uniqueness requires venturing out on thin ice.”

Guests will see artists juggling, swinging on pendular poles and tap dancing on the ice. More traditional activities like ice hockey and ice dancing will also be performed but with the signature jaw-dropping moves of Cirque du Soleil.

Photo c/o Cirque du Soleil

 The performance is set to an eclectic mix of music that includes covers of pop hits including U2’s “Beautiful Day,” Beyonce’s “Halo” and Sia’s “Chandelier” as well as orchestral sounds and even klezmer-style chamber music. Throughout the show, musicians play instruments including the violin, saxophone and accordion. Colorful projections on the stage and ice help immerse you in the story.

Crystal, the company’s 42nd production has been touring arenas since December 2017. The show debuted last night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.  There are four additional performances through June 19th. The show will then move on to Philadelphia (PA), Ontario, Providence (RI), Cleveland (OH),  Elmont (NY), Bridgeport (CT) and Albany (NY) before continuing to Europe in September.

Ever since seeing my first Cirque du Soleil show more than 20 years ago, I’ve been a fan. The acrobatic feats of the performers have me in awe and every performance I’ve seen has been an entertaining and mesmerizing experience. Similarly, Crystal did not disappoint. From the opening narration to the closing bows, it was a phenomenal ice show. The performers had the audience laughing, clapping, oohing and ahhing.

This show is family-friendly and appropriate for guests of all ages. While younger children may not understand the storyline, they will still be awed by the acrobatic feats. Seeing Crystal is a perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.

The Details:
Cirque du Soleil’s Crystal
Prudential Center
25 Lafayette Street
Newark, NJ 07102
website

*The show is two and a half hours, which includes a 20 minute intermission.
*Parking in the lots in and around the Prudential Center cost $30
*If you are picking up tickets at will-call, the box office is at Emerson street. 
*Purses and backpacks are not allowed in the Prudential Center. Bring a small clutch (4” x 7”).
*I highly recommend eating before the show. There are limited food options and they are pricey. Expect to pay $5.29 for a bottle of water and $16.49 for a burger and fries.
*Tickets start at $39 each during Cirque Week. There is also a special family offer. You can buy tickets here.

Snowshoeing at Fahnestock Winter Park

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Over the past couple of years, my husband and I have become hiking fans. I personally prefer hikes that lead to a waterfall or a scenic view. But when winter comes, I usually become a homebody since I dislike the cold. For several years snowshoeing has been on my winter bucket list. I figured it was like hiking, but in the snow. And it’s a good activity to get me outside in the winter. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been much snow this winter. I also didn’t want to invest in a pair of snowshoes to potentially discover that I don’t enjoy it. After the most recent snow storm, my husband and I finally went snowshoeing at Fahnestock Winter Park.

Fahnestock Winter Park is located on part of a New York State Park (Clarence Fahnestock Park) in Carmel, NY. It is open only in the winter and has approximately 12 miles of groomed cross country skiing trails, three snowshoeing trails and a small sledding hill. With a small café onsite as well, it makes a perfect place for a winter weekend visit.

We arrived at 11 AM and had to wait to park. If you have your own skis or snowshoes you pay the trail fee at the parking booth. If you are renting equipment you pay the rental fee and trail fee at the rental office. While the parking lot is large, the park gets a lot of visitors. Especially the day after a decent snowfall! Once we parked we put on our snow pants and hats and headed to the rental lodge.

Although the rental office is busy, they have a process in place that moves the line quickly. There is a rental form that you can complete with the available pens while you wait on the line. Once you make it to the register you pay and get your day pass. Then another employee grabs your rental equipment. There are several benches in the room and most people leave their boots or shoes under the benches while they ski.

The snowshoes easily attach to your own boots or footwear. The heel swivels from the snowshoe frame, making it easy to walk. This was our first time using snowshoes and we found them fairly easy to walk in.

Fahnestock Winter Park has three snowshoe trails: an easy, moderate (Ojugwan Path – orange) and more difficult (Appalachian Way -blue). We opted to try Ojuwan Path, since it was close to the rental office.

This snowshoe trail is marked for easy navigating. It only got a little confusing when we discovered we had to climb the stairs adjacent to the sledding hill to continue the trail. This section of the trail was the most challenging, since it was uphill. Overall, there were no “wow” sights to be seen on this snowshoe trail, but everything looked beautiful covered in snow.

Although the Ojuwan Path crosses Route 301 and then proceeds around the campground, we opted to end our hike early. We stopped at Route 301 and walked through the park entrance back to the rental lodge.

If you are hungry, there is a cafe onsite that sells a few lunch items, plus muffins and baked goods, chips and beverages. There are tables outside the cafe where you can sit and eat.

Snowshoeing takes a little getting used to but has a quick learning curve. If you’ve never been snowshoeing, Fahnestock Winter Park is a great place to go since they offer rentals at a reasonable price. Our next adventure will be trying cross country skiing at the park, since they have rentals and several trails.

The Details:
Fahnestock Winter Park
1570 Route 301
Carmel, NY 1050
website

Open: Operating schedule is weather dependent.
When there is snow the park is open daily 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Rates: **The Empire Pass and Golden Park Pass are not accepted at this park
Trail Pass for skiing and snowshoeing: $12/adults, $10/seniors (62+ and kids under 17)
Sledding Pass: $3/person
Ski Rentals: $18/adult, $15/junior (under 17)
Snowshoe Rentals: adults – $15/day or $7/hour, juniors (under 17) $14/day or $7/hour
Sledding Tube Rentals: $4/hour
Baby Sled Rental: $20/day or $7/hour

Tips:

*Arrive early! The park gets busy, especially after fresh snow fall.
*There are bathrooms and changing areas.
*There is a café onsite that sells snacks, hot cocoa and chili.

October Events in Westchester County

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Here is your calendar of October Events in Westchester County. I’ve included events taking place in the surrounding area that look to be worth checking out! Hope you enjoy a month filled with fall fun!

Comedy:

Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in October. Upcoming shows include Chris Kattan (October 1-3), Aries Spears (October 8-10), Brad Williams (October 15-17), Arnez J (October 22-24) and Liza Treyger (October 28-30).

Jay Mohr (Paramount Hudson Valley – Peekskill) October 2: 8 PM, see Jay Mohr live at the Paramount Hudson Valley in Peekskill. Tickets: $27.50-$42.50

Anthony Rodia (Paramount Hudson Valley – Peekskill) October 15: 8 PM, see Italian-American comedian Anthony Rodia live at the Paramount Hudson Valley in Peekskill. Tickets: $25-$35

Date Night/Girls Night Out:

VR After Dark Dance Party (Yorktown Heights) October 9 and October 23: Imagine VR Studios 8 PM – close, dance to hip hop, EDM, Latin, Reggae and more.  Tickets: $25 includes 1 hour of VR, $10 without VR

Rocky Horror Picture Show with Apoca-Lips Shadow Cast (Paramount Hudson Valley – Peekskill) October 30: Come experience the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Rated R – children under 17 not permitted without parent. Tickets: $10

Eat & Drink:

Taste of Westchester Cooking Demo Classes (restaurants throughout Westchester County) enjoy cooking demos from local chefs and then sample their creations.  October classes include:  October 2: Chutney Masala Indian Bistro (Irvington), October 5: Southern Table Kitchen & Bar (Pleasantville), October 6: GoSu Meats & Noodles (Irvington), October 12: Sonora (Port Chester), October 13: El Barrio (Scarsdale), October 18: Meraki Taverna (Armonk), October 19: Wood. Fire. Wood (Yorktown Heights), October 26: AJ’s (New Rochelle), October 28: The Horse & Hound Inn (South Salem)

More Than a Meal (Bethel) October 3, 15, 16, 17: Enjoy this unique dining experience at Bethel Woods in the Market Sheds. 5 PM, Chef Jasper Alivia serves a family-style, prix-fixe meal at your private, reserved table. Specialty cocktails and conversation with Neal Hitch, Senior Curator at the Museum of Bethel Woods. Tickets: $55/person

The Big Sip (Bethel) October 9 & 10: Enjoy a day of sampling wines and craft beverages, an eclectic food court, and live music. 1 PM – 5 PM, 21+ Tickets: Saturday: $45/general admission, $25/designated driver, Sunday: $40/general admission, $20/designated driver. VIP tickets that include early admission, multi-course dining experience and admission to the Museum at Bethel Woods Saturday: $85, Sunday: $80 *ticket prices increase by $5 the day of the event

Peekskill Brewery’s 13th Anniversary Block Party (Peekskill) October 16: Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer tents, games and more to help celebrate Peekskill Brewery’s 13th Anniversary.

Night Market at Decadent Ales (Mamaroneck) October 30: Beginning at 3 PM enjoy food and drinks from several different vendors.

Fairs & Festivals:

Croton-on-Hudson Fall Festival (Croton-on-Hudson) October 2: 12-6 PM first ever fall festival at Vassallo Park. Music performances, food trucks, children’s activities 

Yorktown Festival & Street Fair (Yorktown) October 10: 11 AM – 5 PM, enjoy a day filled with food, music, activities for the kids and more. Taking place at Jack DeVito Veteran’s Memorial Field.

New Rochelle ArtsFest (New Rochelle & Pelham) October 15-17: Enjoy gallery shows, live music, films, dance performances and more. Highlights will include artists’ open studios and activities at dozens of public and private venues. 

Greenburgh Nature Center Fall Festival (Scarsdale) October 23 & 24: 10 AM – 3 PM Dress in your Halloween costumes and enjoy games, vendors, live music, a pumpkin and scarecrow walk and more. Admission: $5/members, $8/nonmembers. Pre-registration required.

Oktoberfests:

Oktoberfest at the Jefferson Valley Mall (Yorktown Heights) October 1: 6 PM – 11 PM, celebrate the grand opening of the new beer garden outside Peekskill Brewery Pizza & Beer. Enjoy craft beer, pretzels, bratwurst, food trucks, games and more.

Oktoberfest 2021 at Putnam Golf Course (Mahopac) October 1: 6:30 PM, featuring The Amish Outlaws. Enjoy a traditional German menu of bangers, knockwurst, kielbasa and more. Cash bar and beer tent onsite. Tickets: $29/person in advance, $35/person at event, free/children 7 and under, children 8-12, half price

Oktoberfest in the Park (South Salem) October 16: 2 PM in Lewisboro Town Park

Halloween:

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (Croton-on-Hudson) September 17-November 21: The Historic Hudson Valley’s famous fall event is back. 18th century Van Cortlandt Manor is decorated with 7,000 hand carved jack o’lanterns. Entry is by pre-purchased timed tickets only. No tickets are sold at the event. Tickets: $40/adult, seniors (65+) and students (18-25 w/ID), $32/children (ages 3-17)

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Brick-or-Treat (Yonkers) October 1 – November 7: Get into the Halloween spirt with fun activities including brick-or-treating around the attraction, a MINILAND scavenger hunt, character meet and greets, monster training and more. Tickets: $19.99/one day, $23.99/admission plus collectible

Irving’s Legend (Irvington) October 1 – 31: Friday-Sunday only, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM, 9:30 PM. Advance tickets required. Performed under the stars at Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, enjoy seeing the classical tale performed by master storyteller Jonathan Kruk. Tickets: $40/adult, $34/children (3-17)

HallowGlow Nights at Boundless Adventures (Purchase) October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (Saturday evenings in October): Wear your Halloween costume while you climb. Creepy music will be playing and there will be candy for trick-or-treaters. 6 PM – 11 PM, $50/person for a 2 hour session

The Dark House (Garrison) Oct. 7 – 31: This is an immersive sensory experience. “As the story goes, you and a team of your “friends” aim to disprove emphatically that there is no such thing as ghosts by spending the night in a long rumoured haunted house.  The story is told to you through your audio headset as you navigate the space by following the “umbillicals.” You will hear, taste, smell and touch the world around you as your “guides” activate tactile elements at key inflection points in the audio to make it all come to horrifying life.” Ages 14+ The Philipstown Depot Theatre. Tickets: $30-$35/ticket, advanced tickets only.

Halloween Craft Time (Ossining) October 9: Create some Halloween themed craft critters. 11 AM – 12:30 PM, $3/members, $8 non-members. Limited to 12 participants.

Peace Love and Pumpkins (Bethel) October 15-31: This is a walk-through experience on the historic Bethel Woods grounds. See hand-carved jack-o-lanterns, glowing pumpkin art and more. 6:30 – 10 PM, Tickets: $20/adults, $10/youth (3-17)

Cross County Shopping Center Trunk or Treat (Yonkers) October 23: Available in 1-hour time slots (10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm).Free, but tickets must be reserved in advance, available on a first come, first serve basis.

Spooky Sweets and Succulents (Yorktown Heights) October 23: Auntie Liana’s Kitchen and Vintage & Vine are hosting a Witchy Tea Party. Plant a succulent, enjoy a tea party. Costumes are encouraged. 4 sessions starting at 12 PM. $20/child.

Enchanted Forest at Teatown (Ossining) October 23, 24, 30, 31: Enjoy a guided adventure walk, “featuring a cast of whimsical characters and familiar forest friends.” Tickets include a 30-minute guided walk, parking, a treat for children and a visit with the Teatown animal ambassadors. For families. Costumes encouraged, but optional. Tickets: Members: $13/child, $8/adult, Non-members: $16/child, $10/adult

Ghost Tours of the Music Hall (Tarrytown) October 24, 27 & 28: Enjoy a special “balcony to backstage” guided ghost tour to learn more about the secrets of the Tarrytown Music Hall theater, it’s intriguing history and the ghostly guests. Flashlights will be provided for all attendees compliments of sponsor Key Bank. Tickets: $25 – Please arrive 15 before scheduled tour time – No late entry will be permitted. 

Halloween Party at the Greekish Nyack (Nyack) October 28: Party with the Greekish Nyack. Festivities include a costume party, food and drink specials and a DJ. Party starts at 8 PM.

Jefferson Valley Mall Trunk or Treat (Yorktown Heights) October 29: Get the kids in their costumes and enjoy a candy crawl from 5-7 PM in the Macy’s parking lot.

Boo & Brew (Yorktown Heights) October 29: Enjoy food trucks, live music, a haunted hay ride, arts & crafts, face painting, bouncy houses and more. Taking place in front of PB Pizza & Beer at the Jefferson Valley Mall. 5PM – 10 PM

Broadway Fright Night (White Plains) October 30: The White Plains Performing Arts Center will showcase a celebration of songs from Broadway and off-Broadway musicals with supernatural, horror and sci-fi themes. 8 PM, Tickets $35-$55

Halloween Party at Hudson Grille (White Plains) October 30: Put your costume on and enjoy a night of dancing at the Hudson Grille. Prizes for best costume and giveaways all night. Party starts at 9 PM. $15/ticket includes 1 drink (select beer, wine or well cocktail)

Kids:

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival (Chappaqua) October 2: 10 AM – 4 PM. Meet authors and illustrators of some of your favorite children’s books. Enjoy live storytimes, author talks, food trucks, a family fun zone and more. Free.

Movie Night at Lasdon Park (Katonah) October 2: Watch “Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein.” Gates open at 6 PM, movie starts at 7 PM. Arrive early and stroll the gardens. Food available for purchase from Walter’s Famous Hot Dogs. Tickets: $5-$10

Imagination Movers (Paramount Hudson Valley – Peekskill) October 9: 11 AM. The New Orleans-based alternative rock band for preschoolers is coming to the Paramount.

Teen Night at VR Studios (Jefferson Valley Mall – Yorktown) October 15: 6-8 PM, $30/ticket includes unlimited access to all standard and premium VR experiences, voucher for ticket and pizza. Ages 9 -15.

Westchester County Parks Screening Under the Stars: (Valhalla) October 15: Watch the movie Goosebumps at the Kensico Dam.  $25/car, movie starts after dark 

Westchester County Parks Screening Under the Stars: (Croton-on-Hudson) October 22: Watch the movie Hocus Pocus at Croton Point Park.  $25/car, movie starts after dark 

Muscoot Movies: (Katonah) October 30: Enjoy a family movie night at Muscoot Farm. The Mummy will be showing at 6 PM. Bring a blanket or chairs. $20/family, pre-registration is required.

Live Music & Performances:

Tunes & Brews (Yorktown Heights) – October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: PB Pizza & Beer and the Jefferson Valley Mall bring live music, craft beer and food trucks every Friday night from 7-10 PM.

ArtsBash Benefit Concert with Ravi Coltrane (White Plains) October 7: This is ArtsWestchester outdoor fundraiser, previously postponed. Enjoy an evening of jazz music under the stars with Ravi Coltrane. Enjoy cocktails, live music and hors d’oeuvres, 6 PM – 9 PM. Tickets: $100/individual, $85/ArtsWestchester members

Masquerade (White Plains) October 8-24: This show features stories and songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s remarkable life and celebrated work. Performed at the White Plains Performing Arts Center. Performances are at 2 PM and 8 PM on select dates (please check calendar). Tickets $39-$61.

One, Two, Heart You! Music Festival (Peekskill) October 9: Enjoy live music from 10 different bands from 12 PM – 10 PM. Taking place on Esther Street in Peekskill.

Concerts at Bethel Woods (Bethel) A little further to travel but some great musicians worth checking out play here. In October you can see: The Outlaws (October 3), New Power Generation (NPG):Featuring the Music of Prince (October 15), Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes (October 16), Marty Stuart (October 17).

Capitol Theatre (Port Chester) October’s lineup includes: Blues Traveler (October 7), Phil Lesh & Friends (October 9-11, October 18-20, October 29-31), Elvis Costello & the Imposters (October 25 -26), The Greatest Hits of Foreigner (October 27) *Check the site for the full lineup.

Emelin Theatre (Mamaroneck) October’s lineup includes Bria Skonberg (October 2), Lisa Loeb (October 14), Leo Kottke (October 17) and more *Check the site for the full lineup

Paramount Hudson Valley (Peekskill) Music is back at the Paramount. October’s lineup includes: Stella Blue’s Band (October 1), Motherland featuring Eva Sita (October 9), Destination Motown featuring the Sensational Soul Cruisers (October 16), Almost Queen (October 22), No Quarter: a Tribute to the Led Zeppelin Legacy (October 23), Orleans (October 29)

Tarrytown Music Hall (Tarrytown) October’s lineup includes: Toad the Wet Sprocket (October 1), The High Kings (October 2), The Monkees Farewell Tour (October 20) *Check the site for the full lineup

Shopping:

Westchester County Parks Spraing Ridge Ultimate Garage Sale (Yonkers) October 2: 9 AM – 3 PM, Sprain Brook Park

Westchester Craft Crawl: Fall Tour (Croton and Ossining) October 2-3: Visit four different tour stops to shop from 48 professional craft artists,10 AM – 5 PM. Pick up your passport, visit all four stops and have them stamped and be eligible to win one of 25 prizes.

Hudson Valley Farm + Flea (Monroe, NY) October 9: 10 AM – 4 PM, Shop makers of farm fresh foods, vintage collectors, home & garden, mixologists, jewelry, art, bath & body & much more. Music and food. Entry fee $5.00, children 12 and under free

October Moon Faire (White Plains) October 17: Hosted by The Healing Collective NY and Wild Rabbit Apothecary. 12 PM – 4 PM, Shop local makers of hand made and eco-friendly products, psychic readings, energy healers and more. There will be a collection for SNARR Northeast. Bring a bag of dog food or roll of paper towels and receive a free cup or cold brew or spiced cider. Free admission.

Music Hall Vinyl Record Sale (Tarrytown) October 30 & 31: 10 AM – 4 PM, Tarrytown Music Hall is holding their Vinyl Record sale with all proceeds benefiting the Tarrytown Music Hall.

Other Fun:

Jewish Film Festival 2021 (Pleasantville) September 30 – October 14: The Jacob Burns Film Center is featuring 24 different films from Israel, the US and other countries around the world. Live virtual Q&A sessions will be held for several of the films. Check out the schedule for films and times. Tickets per film: $11 members, $16 non-members

Taco Trot 5K (Yorktown Heights) October 10: 9:45 AM, Run or walk the 5K and then enjoy complimentary tacos. rain or shine $35/participant

Westchester Park Bicycle Sundays: (Bronx River Parkway) October 17, 24 and 31: 10 AM – 2 PM,  Bronx River Parkway

The Sound For All Foundation Sound Bath (Peekskill) October 21: Participate in a sound bath at Lile & Rose Collective Wellness Center in Peekskill. 7 PM, $20/person. Limited space so reserve your spot hello@lileboutiquespa.com. There will be tea, snacks and a 10% discount on retail items in the boutique.

Bedford Playhouse Splendor In The Grass: Hollywood Green (Bedford) October 23: Attend the 23rd Annual Bedford Playhouse Gala. 6:30 PM cocktails, 7:30 PM dinner and dancing. Attire is Old Hollywood Glamour, black tie optional. Tickets: $250-$1,000

Snow Tubing in the Hudson Valley

Posted on by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Winter has arrived in the Hudson Valley. The temps are cold and we did have some snow at one point! Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, you can still enjoy some outdoor winter fun. Snow tubing is a fun activity that requires no special equipment or skills, just warm clothes!

We were planning on going snow tubing this past weekend, but the Christmas storm melted all the snow! We are going to hold off on going until we get more snow. However, most of these places make their own snow and are operating. As always, check directly with the location for up-to-date information. Here are some of the places we found where you can go snow tubing in the Hudson Valley.

Holiday Mountain (Monticello)
99 Holiday Mountain Road
Monticello, NY 12701
(845) 796-3161

Holiday Mountain snow tubing sessions sell out quickly. Be sure to call (845) 796-3161 to book your session. Snow tubers must be 44″ tall.

Cost: $20 for a 2 hour session. Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling (845) 796-3161.

Sessions: 2 hour sessions on Friday, Saturday, Sundays and holidays

Hunter Mountain (Hunter)
64 Klein Avenue
Hunter, NY 12442

Hunter Mountain has tubing lanes that are almost 1,000 feet long, the longest of any of the destinations listed. Children have to be at least 36″ to snow tube. Tickets have to be purchased 48 hours in advance of your intended date.

Cost: $25 for a single tube, available for any rider over 44″
$35 for a double tube, for an adult and child between 36″ and 44″

Sessions: 2 hour sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Mount Peter (Warwick)
51 Old Mount Peter Road
Warwick, NY
(845) 986-4940

Mount Peter has a multi-lane 600 foot snow tubing run with a carpet lift to get you to the top of the mountain. Riders must be at least 42″ tall to ride in a single tube. They have tandem tubes for those riders 36″ – 48″ that can ride with an adult. Online reservations/ticket purchasing is highly recommended. For children under 42″ tall, Mount Peter has a Little Tikes tubing hill.

We went snow tubing here several years ago and had a blast! You can read more about our experience.

Cost:
$35 for a 1.5 hour session weekends & holidays, $25 for the Little Tikes hill
$30 for a 1.5 hour session weekdays, $20 for the Little Tikes hill

Sessions: 1.5 hour sessions, Thursday – Sunday (check the website for sessions times)

Plattekill Mountain (Roxbury)
469 Plattekill Road
Roxbury, NY 12474
(607) 326-3500

Plattekill has two tubing lanes that are 500 feet long. A conveyor carpet lift to get you to the top of the mountain. Children have to be at least 3 feet tall to snow tube. Plattekill only has single tubes, but related parties can go tubing with the tubes together as conditions warrant.

Cost: $27 for a 2 hour session, $79 for a season snow tubing pass
Tickets must be purchased in advance online

Sessions: 2 hour sessions Saturdays and Sundays, 11 AM – 5 PM

Windham Mountain (Windham)
360 County Route 12
Windham, NY 12496
(518) 734-4300

Windham Mountain has six, 650 foot snow tube lanes in their Adventure Park. Enjoy a conveyor ride up the mountain.

Cost: $25/person. At this time, reservations and pre purchasing tickets is not available. It is recommended that you call ahead to check availability.

Sessions: 3 hour sessions, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays

3 More Games for Family Game Night

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As the kids get older, family game nights get fewer and far between. Busy schedules mean less time when we are all home together. However, when we do get the occasional opportunity when we are all home together, the kids love a fun family game night! I’ve already posted about some of our game night favorites, but wanted to share three more new-to-us games that we’ve been enjoying recently.

Cat Chaos – Cat Chaos is a fast-paced, card swapping game from Ginger Fox Games. The game consists of 100 cards (4 cards of each of 25 different Cat Celebrities) like David Meowie, Hairy Potter, Pawdrey Hepburn and more. Four cards are placed face up in the center of the table. The rest of the cards are dealt face down to the players in six piles. When the youngest player says, “meow” the game begins.

Picking up only one pile of cards at a time, players must swap their cards with the cards in the center to create a group of four of the same card. When a complete matching set is made, the player yells out the name of the completed set, i.e. “Luke Skywhisker” Although the game can be played with two players, we have found that it is more fun with all four of us playing. It is a quick game and is easy to learn. When we want to play a quick family game, this has been our go-to. Plus, it’s small and easily transportable to take with us when we travel.
Details:
Ages: 8+
Time: 5 – 20 minutes
Players: 2-8

Picwits! (c/o MindWare) – Picwits! is another fun card game consisting of picture cards and captions.

Players are given six picture cards. The judge turns over a caption card and each player needs to choose one of their picture cards that they think best matches the caption. The judge chooses their favorite and the player who submitted that picture card wins the caption.

The game ends when one player collects 4-7 caption cards, depending on the number of players. This game is similar in format to games like Apples to Apples and Cards Against Humanity (for adults). I never realized how long this game has been around, as it won the 2013/Spring Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award Winner for board games! This is always a fun game for us to play. There are a variety of picture cards ranging from the cute to funny. It’s interesting to see the different picture cards we choose to match the caption and which card the judge picks as their favorite.

Details:
Ages: 10+
Time:- approximately 30 minutes a game
Players: 4+

Q*bitz (c/o MindWare) – On the total opposite end of the game spectrum is Q*bitz. This is a visual dexterity game. The game consists of four wooden trays with a set of sixteen colored cubes in each tray. The game is played in three rounds.

In the first round, one of the 100 picture cards is turned over. Using the colored cubes in their tray, players race to recreate the same pattern that is on the card. The first player to accurately do so, wins the round. The second round involves cube rolling. A new card is turned over and players roll all sixteen of their cubes, selecting the cubes that match the pattern. They continue to roll the unused cubes until they have recreated the pattern on the card. The first person to do this wins the round. In the last round, a card is turned over, and players have ten seconds to memorize it. Then the card is turned face down and the first player to recreate the pattern or comes closest to recreating it wins the round.

This is a quieter, more individual, but still fast paced game. We’ve played this game with just two of us as well as the whole family. It really tests players’ visual skills and dexterity. Our least favorite round is the memory round and sometimes we just skip that round and replay one of the other rounds. This game has won multiple awards, including the Parent’s Choice Gold Award.

The Details:
Ages: 8+
Time: 15-25 minutes
Players: 4

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