The whole city seems to be gearing up for the holidays so it's no wonder our news post is filled with all kinds of seasonal tidbits. We've got the scoop on a new outdoor ice-skating rink at the South Street Seaport, a one-of-a-kind holiday illumination courtesy of the Museum of Mathematics and a clever Manhattan boy's new invention: the Menurkey. Plus, new FREE after-school programs at the New York Public Library, a big amendment to the mandatory kindergarten law, Cirque du Soleil's new girl-power spectacle and more.

Since Brooklyn Heights is famous for being an extremely family-friendly neighborhood, it's no surprise that most of its restaurants happily accommodate children. But there are many local eateries that actually cater to families, like restaurant/play space The Moxie Spot, or longtime ma-and-pa eateries like Clark's, Teresa's and the Grand Canyon Restaurant nestled on Montague and Henry Streets. And did we mention all those delicious Middle Eastern joints on Atlantic Avenue?

Our month-long focus on Brooklyn Heights continues with a roundup of our top ten family-friendly restaurants in the area (though in truth we could have chosen twice as many). Our picks run the gamut from places to grab a quick and casual nosh before or after a stroll on the Brooklyn Promenade to more upscale sit-down dining.

We all want to feed our kids fresh and healthy food every day, but it's not always easy to do (or afford). But a new site is simplifying the process, allowing people to put fresh, local and sustainable food on the table each and every week.

If you frequent Jamaica Plain, you already know about the many awesome places to make music with your kids. But you might not know that Jamaica Plain is also home to one of the most unique and critically acclaimed up-and-coming chamber music groups in the country, the conductor-less string orchestra, A Far Cry.  This group -- they call themselves Criers -- invites a new generation of young people to embrace classical music by making their concerts participatory, varied, and inexpensive. And they have afternoon recitals, perfect for the younger, post-nap set.

STAY & PLAY IS NO LONGER OPEN FOR BUSINESS.

Imagine a local spot that is chock-a-block full of giant playscapes, ball pits, riding toys, ropes, slides, games, offers nutritious, organic snacks for both kids and adults, serves fair-trade coffee, caters to kids ages birth to 12, AND offers free Wi-Fi.  And, imagine this same facility holds a wide array of classes and space for birthday parties.  Surely, if such a perfect place existed, they'd include special events for our special needs kiddos, too. Consider your wish come true. Here's an indoor play space in Eastern CT that you'll want to check out. Welcome to Stay and Play in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.

This weekend, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on the East End. Hop aboard a research vessel and go on a bird watching cruise along Shinnecock Bay. Learn about stranded marine mammals and sea turtles in Bridgehampton. Be a cowgirl for a day and create a dance theater piece at Guild Hall. Celebrate the anniversary of the Parish Art Museum's new location. Also on tap: Brady Rymer live in concert at Buckley Day Camp, and Celebrate Superman’s 75th Anniversary at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center. As always, check our events calendar every day for fun activities for the family.

Kids everywhere are thrilled about the long weekend ahead. And while its easy for little ones to lose sight of WHY they have Monday off, it’s a great time to help teach our children about freedom and the people responsible for that freedom. So while you’re out and about relaxing and enjoying your family this weekend, remember that we are able to do so because of the sacrifices of our Veterans and their families. 

If your family loves nature, visit the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum on Saturday and Meet a Live Owl or head to Westmoreland Sanctuary where your little ones can build a simple bird feeder. On Sunday join the Greenburgh Nature Center for the Turkey Scavenger Hunt. 

During this month of thankfulness, teach your children about giving to others at Pajama JAM to benefit The Pajama Program at Groove Performing Arts. Also check out craft ideas for creative ways to inspire kids to give thanks. 

Monday is Veteran’s Day so most libraries will be closed, however if your tot just won't do without a storytime, The Voracious Reader in Larchmont, Barnes & Noble in White Plains and the Greenburgh Nature Center will all be hosting their weekly storytimes.

Throughout the weekend stop by the Hudson River Museum where children can design a subway, an airport or a highway. This is also the last weekend to experience The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. 

Read on for top weekend picks. If you see something interesting, click through to the event listing to view full details. Looking for more options? Be sure to check our Event Calendar for more fun happening this weekend and beyond. Want to stay connected? Sign up for our free newsletter, delivered right to your inbox!