It’s the first weekend of winter! It’s also a big weekend for holidays. There are still plenty of things to do, so check out these local activities!
There’s still time and a few seats left to catch The Nutcracker at Mayo Performing Arts Center (100 South Street, Morristown) on Saturday at 1:00 PM. This holiday classic is performed by the New Jersey Ballet featuring the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Children ages four and up will love this seasonal favorite.
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park (216 Forest Avenue, Paramus) will be open on Saturday from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Attractions include open air ice skating, kids’ beginner synthetic rink, additional kids’ activities, Bergen Express train ride, Santa’s North Pole Workshop, unlimited carousel rides, zoo entry and programming, indoor/outdoor beer garden, and food trucks. The Winter Wonderland will also be open daily the entire week of December 26. Closed on December 25. Tickets are $14 (plus $1.69 fee) per person and include skate rental. Children 5 and under are free. Food and beverages are not included in ticket price but are available for purchase. Tickets are available online.
The Mall at Short Hills (1200 Morris Tpke, Short Hills) will offer its last day of Santa’s Flight Academy, an interactive Santa experience. Visit the Grand Court to register your child for Santa’s elite flight crew and receive a personalized badge. Then use the badge to help Santa and his elves get ready for their journey. Try on a virtual flight suit, learn about navigation, power the sleigh, and dance under magical lights and snowfall. Finally, have a visit with Santa and an official member of his crew. This event is open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with a break from approximately 12:45 PM to 1:15 PM. You must be on line by approximately 1:00 PM.
On Sunday, the Jewish Children’s Museum (792 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn) will host a variety of events as part of their Chanukah Art Festival. In the Olive Oil Workshop, learn how olive oil is made, using methods that have been around since Temple times. Participants can choose olives, extract the oil, and light a Chanukah menorah using their handmade wicks and freshly produced oil. Standard museum admission applies with no additional charge for this workshop. There will also be a Kids’ Canvas Paint Party, Donut Decorating, Game Show, and Grand Menorah Lighting. Visit the website for the full day’s schedule.
Are your kids into Gaga? This dodgeball-like game that originated in Israel in the 1970s is becoming popular! The Gagasphere (140 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick) is hosting Bagels and Ball, a Christmas morning activity that’s not about Christmas. Meet up with friends and family from 10:30 PM to 12:00 PM to play Gaga and enjoy other fun, active games for all ages. There will also be a winter art project. Bagels, coffee and goodies will be available. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $20 per child. Adults and children under 3 are free.
For more upcoming events, check out the family friendly events, showcased in green, on Baristanet Calendar.