Katonah

Best Pumpkin Patches and Picking in Westchester and Hudson Valley

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Sun, 09/16/2018 - 12:00pm

Autumn is in full swing, and it's a beautiful time of year to be outdoors! We've told you all about the wonderful fall festivals and where to go apple picking. Now we're turning our attention to the great pumpkins.

Below we've rounded up our favorite places to go pumpkin picking in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Sure, you can buy your pumpkins from the supermarket or your local nursery, but if you're looking for a more authentic experience, head to one of these nearby pumpkin patches (though pumpkins will generally be found already off the vine). We recommend contacting the farms before heading out to confirm hours of operation, availability, and any comforts that might vary.

Looking for more fall activities? Consult our Fall Fun Guide and follow us on Facebook.

Fall Festivals in Westchester and the Hudson Valley: Apples, Pumpkins, Cider

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 9:00am

Usher in the fall season in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with a host of family autumn festivals. The area's harvest celebrations are packed with seasonal activities for kids, including pumpkin fun, hayrides, apple-cidering, doughnuts, and more.

We've rounded up details on the best upcoming fall festivals in Westchester, several of which made our September GoList. And be sure to consult our guide to the best places for apple picking, many of which include festival-like added attractions.

Looking for more fall family fun? Get the most out of the season by subscribing to our newsletters and following us on Facebook.

Take the Metro-North Train to Family Fun: 7 Easy Day Trips

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Tue, 06/26/2018 - 4:00pm

A ride on the Metro-North can whisk your NYC family away to close-enough-to-see-in-a-day destinations minus the hassle of a car.

Sure, the city makes for a pretty stellar staycation with more family-friendly events and destinations than can be counted. We've got museums, zoos and gardens, outdoor movie screenings, boating, and so much more. Even so, it's nice to make a quick getaway with the kids to slow down a little and enjoy a respite from the city buzz.

Even better, Metro-North offers discount packages and deals for many nearby attractions in Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut.

We've rounded up a few of our favorite stops along the three Metro-North lines with ideas for exploring nearby sights and attractions—all under an hour and a half from Midtown Manhattan. For those already living in Westchester, these little mini family day trips are made extra special with the thrill of a ride on a train.

July 4th Fireworks in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 06/17/2018 - 2:00pm

Independence Day means summer fun, barbecues, and, of course, stunning pyrotechnics. We’ve identified fireworks displays over the course of an entire week (the benefit of Independence Day falling on a Wednesday!) along with lots of added attractions—a carnival, a fair, concerts, sports, bouncy houses, a parade, and other perks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the famous Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is best visited strategically, and we have the best spots to watch with your family; there’s also a show-stopping fireworks display that’s less frenetic over the bridge in Jersey City, which also features a full agenda of fun.

Be sure to keep tabs on our Event Calendar, and sign up for our newsletters to stay on top of our frequent updates and announcements!

Spooky Fun for Kids at Lasdon Park’s Halloween Train Show

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Mon, 05/28/2018 - 4:00pm

With so many Halloween happenings in Westchester and the Hudson Valley, it can be hard to narrow down the choices. While many events are clearly geared toward older kids, the Halloween Train Show at Lasdon Park in Katonah is perfect for preschoolers, younger elementary kids or anyone who falls on the lower end of the scare-o-meter.

The 2018 show is open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October, plus Monday, October 8, and we have the scoop on what you need to know! Looking for more spooktacular things to do? Consult our Halloween Guide and sign up for our newsletters.

8 Art Studios and Centers for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 03/11/2018 - 5:25pm

Whether you’re in the “please don’t color on the walls” phase or your tween in serious about honing her painting skills, you’ll find a creative and enriching art class available in Westchester. The best part? There are classes for any and all interests—from painting and cartooning to clay-making and silk screening.

We’ve rounded up places in our area where kids can get creative. Have a writer or musician instead? We’ve got them covered too. Check out our full Classes Guide for even more picks.

Top Parent and Child Music Classes in Westchester

Submitted by Melissa Kagan on Fri, 03/02/2018 - 11:00am

It's never too early to get started on music appreciation with your child. Taking a baby & me music class can boost your tot’s brain power, help develop social skills, and foster creativity. It’s also the perfect excuse to let your guard down and boogie to your favorite kid tunes.

Here's our comprehensive list of the best music classes for babies and toddlers in Westchester. Looking for even more classes for kids? Consult our Classes Guide and sign up for our newsletters!

16 of the Best Party Places for Toddlers and Preschoolers in Westchester

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Fri, 02/23/2018 - 2:00pm

As adorable as first, second and third birthday parties can be, the idea of my toddler and 10 to 15 of her closest friends wreaking havoc on my living room and our unsuspecting cats is enough to make me consider just skipping the festivities until she is old enough to lend a significant hand in the post-party clean up. Luckily, there are professionals all across Westchester County who have mastered the delicate science of toddler birthday parties.

If you prefer to party at home, check out our post on in-house party entertainers and stand back as little ones are delighted and amazed. For those of us who opt to leave the work entirely in the hands of the professionals, read on for our top picks for celebrating yearly milestones with the 4-and-under-crowd.

Outside Fun: Maple Sugaring Activities for Kids in Westchester

Submitted by Susan Miele on Fri, 02/09/2018 - 4:00pm

Finding enough family-friendly activities in the cold weather months can be a challenge. Luckily, Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley offer many ways for families to beat the winter blues.

Maple sugaring is a great winter activity for kids. The season begins in February and runs through late March. Ideally, temperatures must dip below freezing at night and warm up during the day so that the sap flow increases. Another fun fact: To make just 1 gallon of pure maple syrup, it actually takes more than 40 gallons of sap. Who knew?!

We've rounded up maple sugaring fun in and around Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Read on for details on where to learn and celebrate this centuries-old tradition. Looking for more winter fun? Check out our Event Calendar.

7 Spots Westchester Kids Can Take Figure Skating Classes

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Sun, 02/04/2018 - 4:00pm

As the Olympic competition heats up and outdoor temperatures struggle to creep above frigid, the cold-yet-controlled climates of Westchester County's indoor skating rinks beckon to families who've been cooped up all winter. If you're looking for ways to get your own little Nathan Chen or Bradie Tennell out there on the ice, check out these local skating classes.

Want even more winter fun? Take a look at our Winter Fun Guide.