The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Soars in NYC

Drew Kristofik's picture Submitted by Drew Kristofik on

Eric Carle's colorful animals come to life on stage,

It’s never easy to successfully adapt a popular book for stage or film (the expectations!), nor to keep a theater full of toddlers and preschoolers engaged and seated for an hour. Yet, the latest stage adaptation of Eric Carle’s beloved The Very Hungry Caterpillar, playing in NYC this winter, does all that and more.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, now at the Duke through Sunday, January 5, 2025, retells four iconic Carle tales with 75 handcrafted large-scale puppets, three actors who double as puppeteers and narrators and subtle but lyrical music that readies the audience for the animal magic about to appear on stage. It’s earnest, colorful, artsy and will hold your kid in awe for 60+ solid minutes.

Is Santa Real? What to Answer When Kids Ask

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on

"Is Santa real?" Here's how to handle the big question!

Is Santa real? At some point in their young lives, nearly every kid who celebrates Christmas will ask that question. And more often than not, their parent will break into a sweat as they struggle to come up with an answer.

If your child suddenly asks the big question this holiday season, there's no need to panic. Read on for what parents and experts say are the best ways to handle the question, "Is Santa real?"

And remember: Even when a kid stops believing in Santa Claus, the spirit of Christmas is still alive. Our Guide to Christmas Activities and Holiday Fun for Kids includes Christmas crafts, holiday movies, and many more ways to make the season magical.

Toys for Tots Donation Spots in New Jersey and More Places to Donate Toys

Submitted by Margaret Hargrove on

Donate to Toys for Tots and help bring Christmas joy to children in need across New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

Toys For Tots, USPS Operation Santa, and many other organizations collect new toys every holiday season to deliver to kids in need throughout New Jersey. Read on for ways your family can donate toys in NJ and spread some holiday cheer.

And be sure to check out other feel-good holiday ideas, like our holiday and Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities for families, in our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events in New Jersey.

Dazzling, Dynamic Tianyu Lights Festival Takes Over Citi Field

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The Tianyu Lights Show lets visitors experience an enchanting night walk at Citi Field.

Holiday lights shows have become a seasonal staple in NYC, but a visit to the brand-new Tianyu Lights Festival in Queens was a stunning surprise. We oohed and awed as we traversed the 1 1/2-mile trail that's taken up residence in the Citi Field parking lot this season.

A dazzling combination of brightly colored Chinese lanterns, LED lights, cutting-edge technology, and even an infinity room made the Tianyu Lights Festival the most dynamic holiday lights display we've ever seen.

Read on for our take on this must-do holiday event in NYC and find more seasonal fun in our NYC Kids Guide to the Holidays.

Sayville Falls Transforms Mini Golf Course into Winter Garden

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Sayville Falls Mini Golf has brought a new holiday attraction to Long Island.

A new addition to the Long Island holiday activity scene, Sayville Falls Miniature Golf is illuminating its grounds with a holiday light show and winter garden.

Upon arrival, our brood of five couldn't decide what we wanted to explore first. This year-round attraction hit a hole-in-one with its well-executed winter wonderland. Read on for our full review and what you should know before you go. 

For more seasonal festivities, check out our Long Island Guide to Holiday Fun, including our list of 25 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities on Long Island.

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