Central Park

One of the main reasons we live in New York City is to take advantage of all the amazing cultural experiences it has to offer year-round. If one of your New Year's resolutions is to do even more fun things with your kids, kick off 2013 with an enriching New Year's Day in our incredible city.

We came up with six resolutions for families and then found activities to fulfill each one—all at places that are open on January 1, 2013 in NYC.

From all of us at Mommy Poppins, we wish you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

'Tis the season to get the gang all dressed up to see some holiday shows. Luckily in New York City, you don't have to blow all of your gift money on tickets. There are lots of small, low-key stage productions that are great for kids (even young, fidgety ones) that will get the whole family into the holiday spirit. All of our picks are $20 or under per person—a few are even less than $10!

These shows aren't all about Christmas, either. Hanukkah, Kwanza and the snowy winter season are also represented. From A Charlie Brown Christmas live onstage to a puppet take on Yes, Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus to Flying Latkes to abridged tot-friendly mountings of The Nutcracker, here are a dozen holiday shows (and a couple concerts) for NYC families. Remember, you can find lots of other seasonal fun in our NYC Holiday Guide.

You don't have to brave Rockefeller Center to witness a fabulous Christmas tree lighting.

We've rounded up tree lightings (and menorah, snowflake and even a few building illuminations) that are much less crowded, way cooler (one even comes with a performance of The Nutcracker) and feel like community celebrations, not events for tourists. Plus, most of these festive events are free and you don't have to stand on top of a car to see all of the great things going on.

Read on for a host of awesome holiday illuminations in New York City. You can find more seasonal fun in our Holiday Guide.