Manhattan is not only home to great cultural institutions, shops and events; it's also a place where there are plenty of things to do outside. If you're looking for ways to enjoy New York City?s beautiful summer weather, we've got some great suggestions for things you can do outdoors. New York City has everything from parks and outdoor cafes, to flea markets, sporting events, and street fairs. Here are some of our favorite things to do in NYC this week that will get you out of the house!
Want to see what's going on next weekend or when you have those few days off? Check out the NY Metro Parents' calendar!
Cinderella - Florence Gould Hall
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
See the timeless classic presented by NYTB, the chamber company known for its meticulously rendered, professionally danced "pint-sized ballets" created especially for children. Plus, hear a brief talk by Artistic Director Diana Byer.
THE PAPER BAG PLAYERS' GREAT MUMMY ADVENTURE - Symphony Space
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
This new show from the award-winning troupe is packed with stories, songs, freewheeling dances, painting, audience participation, paper bag costumes and scenery and lots of adventure.
Darwin - Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
See a heart-rendering tale about a dinosaur named Darwin who discovers the true meaning of love. The performance will be followed by a Q&A with the artists and actors.
The Grapes of Wrath - The Castillo Theatre
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
The struggles of Tom Joad and his family are given voice by young people in this special adaptation of John Steinbeck’s classic story.
Saturday Morning Storytelling with the Hans Christian Andersen Storytellers - Scandinavia House
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
Some of New York’s most famous storytellers bring to life exciting tales of mythical creatures and fantastic adventures from Scandinavia and the far North. Listen to stories from Finland and other tales with Swedish Ballads told and sung by Johanna Hongell-Darsee.
THE PAPER BAG PLAYERS GREAT MUMMY ADVENTURE - 92nd Street Y, Kaufmann Concert Hall
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
This new show form the award-winning troupe is packed with stories, songs, freewheeling dances, painting, audience participation, paper bag costumes and scenery and lots of adventure.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) - The New Victory Theater
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard's plays. Three actors take the audience through raucous parodies of all 37 of Shakespeare's plays, beginning with a send-up of "Romeo and Juliet," followed by a "Titus Andronicus" cooking show, a rap version of "Othello," and a one-minute version of "Hamlet."
Putomayo Jazz Festival - The Scholastic Store SoHo
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
Listen to the sounds of jazz clarinetist, Oran Etkin from the new kids CD "Putomayo Jazz Playground." Pre-registration is suggested.
Putomayo Jazz Playground Concert Special - The Scholastic Store
March 13, 2010 - Manhattan
Putomayo comes to Scholastic for a kids jazz extravaganza. Listen to the sounds of jazz clarinetist, Oran Etkin from the new kids CD Putomayo Jazz Playground. RSVP is requested.
Thalia Kids' Bookclub, Kate DiCamillo's "The Magician's Elephant" - Symphony Space, Thalia Theater
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
The Newbery Medalist, Kate DiCamilllo,(The Tale of Despereaux) talks about her new novel, a haunting fable about trusting the unexpected and making the extraordinary come true. The event includes a discussion with the audience, a creative writing project, and a book signing.
The Grapes of Wrath - The Castillo Theatre
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
The struggles of Tom Joad and his family are given voice by young people in this special adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic story.
Joanie Leeds and The Nightlights - JCC in Manhattan
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
Popular children’s musician Joanie Leeds and her band, "The Nightlights," will perform hits from their new CD.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) - The New Victory Theater
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard's plays. Three actors take the audience through raucous parodies of all 37 of Shakespeare's plays, beginning with a send-up of "Romeo and Juliet," followed by a "Titus Andronicus" cooking show, a rap version of "Othello," and a one-minute version of "Hamlet."
The Little Engine That Could - Tribeca Performing Arts Center
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
An entertaining and inspirational favorite about the power of optimism and motivation, Watty Piper's time-honored classic, "The Little Engine That Could," comes to the stage with sassy, colorful, life-sized toys of a bygone time.
Cinderella - Florence Gould Hall
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
See the timeless classic presented by NYTB, the chamber company known for its meticulously rendered, professionally danced "pint-sized ballets" created especially for children. Plus, hear a brief talk by Artistic Director Diana Byer.
The Macaroons: Let's Go Coconuts - The Museum of Jewish Heritage
March 14, 2010 - Manhattan
Celebrate Passover with JDub's first rock group for kids with whimsical songs about flying matzoh brei and what to do if you drop a matzoh ball.
Mini Mates Toddler Playgroup - South Street Seaport Museum
March 17, 2010 - Manhattan
Listen to stories and participate in maritime-themed activities as well as the “Imagination Playground in a Box,” making the principles of unstructured free play accessible to toddlers.
The Grapes of Wrath - The Castillo Theatre
March 19, 2010 - Manhattan
The struggles of Tom Joad and his family are given voice by young people in this special adaptation of John Steinbeck’s classic story.
46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes - New Victory Theater
March 19, 2010 - Manhattan
With their beeline approach to high-flying fun, the cheeky Aussies of Circa push their own limits as they barrel, bolt and balance at breakneck speed.
The Grapes of Wrath - The Castillo Theatre
March 20, 2010 - Manhattan
The struggles of Tom Joad and his family are given voice by young people in this special adaptation of John Steinbeck’s classic story.
46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes - New Victory Theater
March 20, 2010 - Manhattan
With their beeline approach to high-flying fun, the cheeky Aussies of Circa push their own limits as they barrel, bolt and balance at breakneck speed.
Detective Day - The Scholastic Store
March 20, 2010 - Manhattan
Unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes at The Scholastic Store on Detective Day. Enjoy story time with everyone's favorite detective pooch Ike LaRue as he investigates mysteries and solves crimes. Make your own "Detective Notebook", search for clues around the Scholastic Store, and crack the case of the missing teddybear.
Keigwin + Company - Joyce Theater
Through March 21, 2010 - Manhattan
Set to Haydn’s "Symphony #6 in D Major," "Bird Watching" places audiences in the position of voyeur, observing and reflecting upon the world that surrounds them. The piece playfully explores the juxtaposition between human and bird rituals, natural and urban environments.
Blacktop Circus - Paradise Theater
Through March 21, 2010 - Bronx
The show features an eclectic array of acclaimed young performers, assembled from the blacktop -- the asphalt pavements of city streets and playgrounds. The show is the only hip-hop variety show to provide a professional venue featuring these exceptional talents all under one roof.
Pinkalicious, The Musical - The Bleecker Street Theatre
Through May 31, 2010 - Manhattan
Follow along the adventures of Pinkalicious as her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor's office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe - a dream come true for this pink loving enthusiast.
City Parks Foundation presents "Three" - Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
Through June 25, 2010 - Manhattan
See an adventurous retelling of the classic children’s fairytales “The Three Pigs,” “Three Billy Goats Gruff,” and “The Three Bears.” Reservations are required.
Captain Marbles And His Acting Squad - Where Eagles Dare Studios
Through June 27, 2010 - Manhattan
Witness the wild antics of Ballerina, Astronaut, Uncle Arnold, Witch, Morey the Eel, and Captain Marbles himself, as they set forth on the perilous quest of casting "Romeo and Juliet." For ages 3 and up. Through June 27.