As the federal government shutdown stretches on, its impact is being felt by government employees and by federally run sites, parks, and museums across the country, including a few here in the NYC area. Wondering what's still open and what's been closed in New York City as a result of the government shutdown? Read on for a full list, which we'll keep up to date as shutdown news develops.

Martin Luther King, Jr., the chief spokesperson for the Civil Rights Movement, is memorialized annually on the third Monday of January. This floating holiday has evolved into more than just a day off from school. Now deemed a National Day of Service, MLK Day encourages volunteers across the country to donate their time in order to make a difference. This day reminds us of hope, compassion, and the ongoing potential for social change. Many New Jersey towns are hosting local activities, and we've put together a list that includes both celebrations and service activities.

Worried about the looming teachers' strike that may start on Thursday? Join the club. While many Los Angeles parents who send their kids to LAUSD public schools have been concerned about how to keep their kids learning and busy during the first teachers' strike in 30 years, there may be a (small) silver lining: Students will get free admission to some favorite LA museums and free Metro rides as long as the strike continues (if it happens).

The Hudson Valley's newest celebrity resident is a redheaded blogger/farm girl who's 18 inches tall. Meet Blaire Wilson, American Girl's 2019 "Girl of the Year."

Blaire, American Girl's first-ever doll set in the Hudson Valley, lives with her family on a sustainable farm and bed and breakfast in Bluefield, a fictional town set in the real Ulster County, NY. She made her debut on January 1.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a day off from school, when families can explore the life, legacy, and lessons of the iconic civil rights leader (and take a break from schedules a bit). But Monday is also a day on: when kids and adults are encouraged to help out in their communities and find ways to show kindness to others in gestures of service. Boston offers families plenty of ways to commemorate and learn more about Dr. King’s legacy throughout the holiday weekend.

NYC is constantly changing, but one neighborhood that's undergone a particularly striking transformation in the past decade is Harlem. While my family and I moved into the neighborhood when I was pregnant with my oldest (now a newly minted teenager) there are times we still feel like relative newcomers, and the drumbeat of gentrification has only gotten stronger since we arrived, bringing with it an influx of popular new restaurants, cultural institutions, and more family-friendly finds.

Though I have mixed feelings about the changing face of the neighborhood, the influx of chains, and rising rents, I am quite happy to be raising three bona fide Harlemites. From the the beautiful, old-school, tree-lined blocks to friendly neighbors who represent a rainbow of colors and cultures to acres of green space, Harlem is far removed from the madness of Midtown, yet just a short express train ride away.

Read on for the top 50 things to do in our home neighborhood, which spans 110th to 124th Streets from Manhattan to Fifth Avenues, and 125th to 160th Streets from Riverside Drive to Fifth Avenue.

Cold temperatures and snow on the ground doesn’t mean you have to spend the next few months stuck at home (and, let's face it, who would want to?). We’ve rounded up some of our favorite events and things to do with preschoolers in Westchester and the Hudson Valley this winter. From stage performances to nature programs, holiday celebrations to play places, we’ve got you covered.

Want more? For all ages, check out our mammoth list of 50 things to do this winter in Westchester, as well as our Event Calendar. Be sure to sign up for our newsletters to stay in the know!

Being stuck inside on a cold, blustery day with your kids climbing the walls is far from our idea of a good time. Lucky for us, New Jersey has no shortage of ways to keep young 'uns entertained and active this winter, from museums and indoor play spaces to bowling alleys, Ninja Warrior–inspired obstacle courses, and roller rinks.

Bundle up your little ones and hit the road to check out one of these 50+ fun ideas. Kid-friendly shows, drop-in arts & crafts, and sporty fun zones are just some of our favorite indoor activities guaranteed to cure cabin fever.

Read on for our list of the best of what New Jersey has to offer for the whole family this winter season. And be sure to check out our January GoList and Events Calendar for even more great ideas. Stay warm, NJ!