9 Things to do for New Year’s Eve & Day in and around Jersey City

Things to do in jersey city

Nye17: A Night To Remember

Saturday, Dec.31st from 9 to 3 Pm, At Taphaus, 2nd street, Jersey City

Buy Tickets here: https://nyejc.splashthat.com

Chicpea X Hayoner Present:
A lavish black and white grand ball on the water. Come celebrate New Year’s Eve at Taphaus in Downtown-Jersey City, NJ.

Inspired by Truman Capote’s 1966 ‘Party of The Century’

Event Details Here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1701342763529164/
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Things to do in jersey city

“The Big Little Railroad”

From 10-11:30am

Liberty State Park

http://libertystatepark.nj.gov

Explore the transportation history of the CRRNJ featuring the historic Jersey Central Railroad film, “The Big Little Railroad” followed by a guided walking tour of the restored terminal. No pre-registration is required; please meet at the Information Desk inside the Terminal building.
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New Year’s Eve Family Cruise

Pier 16, 89 South Street, New York, NY 10038

Take the whole family along for a night of New Year’s Eve fun on the New York Harbor! Kids and parents can dance the night away, play Wii games, enjoy treats, party favors and more. This event is best suited for older children, as the cruise boards at 9:10 pm and sails until 12:20am. Tickets are $116 per child ages 3 – 12 and $199 per adult. Family packs are available for $700 (2 adults and 2 children).

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12 Days of Science

Liberty Science Center, Jersey City

December 21 – January 3 (closed 12/25)

The LSC will be open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, so it’s the perfect place to get out of the cold and get the kids active! This holiday celebration includes the new Infinity Climber, building and displaying a huge snowflake, meet a live penguin, Animals Out and About, Solve It! Avalanche Challenge, Animal Encounter, Beekeeping: The Sweetest Science, Story Time: Winter Exploration, Snowflake Village, Rainforest Rescuers, Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream, Touch Tank.

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Holiday Lights Spectacular

Turtle Back Zoo

560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ

Phone: 973-731-5800, turtlebackzoo.com

You still have time to check out Holiday Lights if you haven’t already done so this season. Holiday Lights will be open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 5pm – 9pm through January 3. The zoo will not have Holiday Lights on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. However, Holiday Lights will be open on New Year’s Day, although the zoo won’t be open during the day. The event is free to the public, though donations of canned goods, toys and pet food are encouraged.

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New Year’s Eve at the Funplex

Funplex
182 Rte. 10 W., East Hanover, NJ

Phone: 973-428-8772; funplexeasthanover.com

6:30 pm–12:30 am

Can you think of a better way to ring in the New Year than with six hours of unlimited indoor attractions (plus 40 free tokens!), music and an all you can eat buffet? We didn’t think so. Special online price of $49 beforehand or $54 at the door. Reserve before 11/30 and receive a bonus arcade card worth $10. Your kids will be ecstatic about that, no doubt!

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“Noon” Year’s Eve

Pump It Up – pumpitupparty.com

10 Middleberry Blvd., Randolph, NJ – Phone: 973-252-9777

8 Commerce Way #135, Hamilton Township – Phone: 609-586-5517

Throughout the day starting at 11am

If you’ve got youngsters that will have fallen asleep by the strike of midnight, Pump It Up has the New Year’s celebration for you. Bring the family to this indoor play place for some bouncing before the countdown to “Noon” Year’s Eve, with four different jump times to choose from this year.

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Ocean City First Night

300 West 9th St., Ocean City

609-399-1412; oceancityfirstnightnj.com

With eight hours of non-stop entertainment at different venues throughout the town, you will enjoy yourself to the fullest. With events right up until midnight, your time will be spent to the absolute max this year in the most enjoyable way possible.

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Midnight at the Oasis Party

Sahara Sam’s Oasis

535 North Route 73 , West Berlin, NJ

https://www.saharasams.com/2016/posts/nye-midnight-at-the-oasis/

Saturday, December 31, 2016; 7:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Admission: 64.95 per person

Families get to enjoy this themed indoor water park with lots of water attractions and land events. Jam out with their DJ, play games and win giveaways. The New Year’s Eve Party includes: Admission to the Park Foam Party Delicious Appetizers, Entrees and Desserts Themed party goods (hats, noise makers, etc) Champagne Toast (for adults 21 and over) Sparkling Cider Toast for the kids.

Holiday Events In And Around Jersey City

Things to do in jersey city

The holidays are fast approaching and we are excited to share holiday events in and around Jersey City for this season!

J E R S E Y C I T Y

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HDSID Annual Tree/Menorah lighting with Mayor Fulop and Santa

Dec 8th – 5pm to 8pm

Newark Avenue Pedestrian Area

https://www.facebook.com/events/666325373545442/

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Holiday Market

Grove Street PATH Plaza, Jersey City

Nov 1- Dec 22: Every Monday and Thursday Through December 22

http://jcdowntown.org/events/artist-maker-market

The Artist & Maker Market is back for the Holiday Season! Find fabulous gifts for everyone at The Grove Street Path Plaza every Monday and Thursday.

Skip the crowded malls & avoid lost packages in the mail this Season by buying directly from local artisans and makers!

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things to do in jersey city Project Market: Winter Wonderland

City Hall Plaza, Jersey City

Saturday Dec 3rd and Sunday Dec 4th 11-6pm

http://www.thejerseycityproject.com/project-market-2016.html

Project: MARKET returns for its 4th year on December 3rd & 4th, 2016. The heated outdoor market located in the Historic Downtown section of Jersey City, NJ will act as a kick-off to the holiday shopping season highlighting local, celebrating seasonal, and encouraging economic growth amongst small businesses. Join them and EAT.SHOP.DRINK

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Things to do in jersey city

things to do in jersey city The Polar Express: An IMAX Experience

Liberty Science Center, Jersey City

Nov 25-26 and Dec 3-10-17

http://lsc.org/blog/lsc_movies/the-polar-express/

Check out The Polar Express on the nation’s largest IMAX Dome Theater, right here in Jersey City! Bring the kids to see this family film. Tickets are $12.50 for children 2 – 12, $14.50 for adults for non-members. For members, tickets cost $11.00 per child and $9.50 per adult.

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things to do in jersey city Santa Fest 2016

14th Street Garden, Jersey City

Sunday, Nov 27th 1-3pm

Sunday, Dec 11th 10-1pm

http://www.14thstreetgardencenter.com/pages/santa-fest

Santa’s coming to 14th Street Garden once again!

Parents will be able to take their own pictures and don’t forget your letter for Santa!

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Free Pictures with Santa

Bambino Chef, Jersey City

***date and time to be confirmed

Bring the kiddies for free pictures with Santa and some cookies, too!

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Jersey City Nutcracker

Frank R. Conwell Middle School #4 Auditorium, Jersey City

December 13-18

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2708608

Join in the holiday tradition with an urban holiday Nutcracker! $20 general admission and $11 for students and seniors.

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Winter Market

December 17th from 12pm to 4pm at Explore 2000.

Family Friendly Atmosphere – FREE ENTRY

This event is an indoor market held throughout the school halls where the community can shop, vendors can purchase a table to sell goods, gifts are donated to help students purchase items at an affordable rate, and students create crafts to vend.

In order to enhance the school’ current activities and initiate new programs, they must rely on the support of generous donors.

All proceeds help to benefit the Explore 2000 Student Activity for Afterschool Programming.

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O T H E R C I T I E S

things to do in jersey city

Macy’s Herald Square, New York

Now – Dec 24th

Located on the 8th Floor of Macy’s Herald Square, this winter wonderland includes a North Pole village complete with live elves, Santa and much more holiday fun!

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Santa’s Flight Academy

The Malls at Short Hills, NJ
Nov 11- Dec 24
http://www.shopshorthills.com/holidays

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind interactive Santa experience! Once you arrive, visit Grand Court to register your child for Santa’s elite flight crew and receive a personalized badge. Use your personalized badge to help Santa and his elves get ready for their journey. Children will be able to try on a virtual flight suit, learn about navigation, power the sleigh and dance under magical lights and snowfall and finally enjoy a visit with Santa as an official member of his flight crew.

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holiday-lights Holiday Lights

Turtle Back Zoo

Nov 18 – Jan 2 – Closed Dec 24-25

http://turtlebackzoo.com/events-calendar/

Take a winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. Celebrate the season of giving by bringing donations of non-perishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats. Different themed activities featured each December weekend makes visiting extra exciting! Admission to light show is free with paid admission to zoo. Adult price is $14.00 and for children ages 2-12 $11.00 from April 1st through November 30th. Adult price from December 1st through March 31st is $12.00 and $10.00 for children ages 2-12. Children under 23 months are always free.

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Pet Photos with Santa

Celebrate Life Studios, 1200 Park Ave., Hoboken, NJ 07030

Saturday, Nov 19th 1-3pm

Get your pet photos with Santa in time for the holidays at Celebrate Life Studio in Hoboken! Portions of the proceeds from each session will benefit LHS. You can reserve your time slot HERE!

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Image result for botanical gardens train show Holiday Train Show

New York Botanical Garden

Nov 19 – Jan 16

http://www.nybg.org/hts16/

Join the Botanical Garden in celebrating their 25th year of holiday magic. Explore a winter wonderland across their 250 acres with special tours, acappela performances, Winter Harmonies Concerts, poetry readings and activities for kids.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $8 for children 2-12 for weekdays, $25 for adults and $10 for children 2-12 weekends. Children under 2 free everyday.

Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

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Santa’s Workshop

Staten Island MakerSpace

450 Front Street Unit B (entrance on Thompson St), New York, NY 10304

http://www.rgtoydrive.org/

http://www.makerspace.nyc/

Saturday, Dec 3 10-4pm

Wanted: Good hearted elves to make toys for the 22nd Annual Richard Gardner Jr. Memorial Toy Drive!

Adults and children age 12 and up are welcome to participate. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This is a volunteer event. If you would like to donate to help purchase materials they would appreciate it.
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2016-holiday-title Loew’s Jersey’s Holiday Show

Sunday, Dec 4 2-7pm

http://loewsjersey.org/calendar/

Enjoy a traditional live holiday concert sing-along at 2:00pm and a screening of “It’s A Wonderful Life” at 3:30pm.

Admission to BOTH the Concert AND Movie: $12 Adults / $8 Kids & Seniors (Movie Only: $10 / $7 Kids & Seniors)

Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for a needy child to the Loew’s annual Toy Drive. Donated toys will be distributed off-site by a local charitable service.

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Millburn Snowflake Parade

Millburn Ave between Holmes and Spring Streets

Sunday, Dec 4 1:30-4:30pm

http://downtownmillburn.org/events/snowflake-parade.html

The parade will be held on Millburn Avenue between Holmes and Spring Streets. There will be professional bands, clowns, costumed characters, and refreshments after the parade.

5 Ways to Use Your Leftover Pumpkin

Everybody loves having pumpkins for Halloween, but what do you do with the leftovers?

Well, it turns out that pumpkin is actually an incredibly nutrient dense fruit.

Below are 5 ways to use your leftover pumpkin. Each of these recipes uses pumpkin as the showcase ingredient and flavor. And they all taste like fall!

Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is the basis of most pumpkin recipes and it is quite simple to make. So why is it that many people still buy the canned stuff? You won’t be one of them after following this recipe by The Pioneer Woman.
Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Ok this one is a no brainer. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of beta-carotene. They also contain 48% of your daily fiber requirement and 42% of your daily magnesium.

Preheat your oven to 170 fahrenheit. Use some parchment paper to cover a cookie sheet. Clean your pumpkin seeds of any left over guts and dry them with a paper towel. Spread them out on the paper and sprinkle with seasonings of your choice. I love mine with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes and let them cool before tossing them back!

Pumpkin Chili

Chili is a staple dish. There is nothing like leaving a pot of chili on the stove for a few hours to simmer while it fills the air with an intoxicating aroma. If you’re vegan, like me, nix the meat in this recipe and substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth.

Olivia’s Cuisine Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin Soup

Not only are soups a fantastic way to fill you up without filling you out, but they are also a great way to use up veggies that you have lying around. The Minimalist Baker’s blog has a simple and quick recipe for a delicious, creamy and vegan pumpkin soup!

Minimalist Baker’s Simple Pumpkin Soup

Vegan Pumpkin Bread

I love topping off a yummy meal with an even yummier treat. This fabulous pumpkin bread can be served hot with your favorite ice cream on top.

Check out Love and Lemons Vegan Pumpkin Bread recipe

Winter Classes in Jersey City

Indoor Tennis Classes

Kids group lessons offered at 2 locations – Grace Church & HOPES
Hurry! Some classes already SOLD OUT – few spots remain!
4:1 child-to-coach ratio – (4) age groups from 3 – 8 years
All equipment is provided and beginners are welcome

Ask about their waiting list if the class you want is sold-out

Grace Church (JC) Schedule:
(12 sessions, starting Jan 5th)
Wed – Big Aces (7-8yrs), 530-630 PM
Thurs – Mini Aces (3yrs), 330-4 PM
Thurs – Tiny Aces (4yrs), 330-415 PM
Thurs – Tiny Aces (4yrs), 415-5 PM
Thurs – Little Aces (5yrs), 5-6 PM
Register HERE: http://newjersey.superdupertennis.com/nj-jersey-city

Location Details:
Grace Church Van Vorst
Parish Hall Gymnasium
39 Erie Street (b/w 2nd and 3rd on Erie)
Near the Grove Street PATH in “Downtown Jersey City”
HOPES
Rue Gymnasium
301 Garden Street (b/w 3rd and 4th on Garden)
Near the Hoboken PATH in “Downtown Hoboken”

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YOU could win a FREE 3 month KIDS membership at CKO Kickboxing in Jersey City. To enter your child please register for a FREE kids class durning the month of November. CKO Kids classes are held from 4:15 – 5pm every MONDAY and WEDNESDAY. Please come in and mention JC FAMILIES PROMOTION. We will have gloves and you can watch and see how the class goes!

At the end of the month we will draw one winner from this group for a FREE 3 month membership for the months of DECEMBER, NOVEMBER, and JANUARY. http://www.ckojerseycity.com/ OR Call: 201 360 3072

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True To Kids by Tanya True Playgroups, Parties and more!

True To Kids playgroups incorporate interactive music, rhythm play, yoga, dance, and many opportunities for support of language, fine and gross motor development. Tanya’s extensive knowledge of, and experience in early development coupled with her

Some groups like/need to rotate homes, but I have found that the same space each time can be supportive for the children. Mixed ages is fine.

In terms of scheduling, classes are held at the same time each week, for 12 consecutive weeks, with holidays off. Two free make up classes are included.

If you are interested in being part of a True To Kids playgroup but need help putting a group together, don’t hesitate to ask.

To register or ask questions, contact info@truetokids.com or call 212.542.0892

Private sessions and guitar lessons are also available.

Outings for November Days Off

Things to do in jersey city

November is here and it brings with it many, many days off for public school kids. Public schools in Jersey City are closed Tuesday 11/8 for Election Day, Thursday 11/10 and Friday 11/11 for NJEA Teacher’s Convention and Veteran’s Day and then there’s all the Thanksgiving closings! One day is easy, but it can be a challenge to think up fun things to do with your kids for this many days, so close together. Fear not – here are some ideas for local (and within driving distance) fun!

Liberty Science Center

222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City

LSC is open all the days that kids have off from school. New exhibits have recently been added, so if you haven’t been for a while it’s time to check it out again! Plus, they have various activities throughout the day including “Animal Encounter”, “Story Time”, “Touch Tank” and many others. The IMAX Dome Theater is a great place to check out while you are at LSC or even on its own. Currently, you can see “Extreme Weather” and “A Beautiful Planet.” IMAX tickets are between $9 – $10. General admission to LSC is $21.75 for adults over 13 years of age and $17.75 for children ages 2 – 12. You can also buy combo tickets that include movies.

Bambino Chef

http://www.bambinochef.com/

Get your aprons ready! At Bambino Chef cooking campers will explore the magic power of the kitchen by cooking up delicious treats from scratch, using a variety of fresh ingredients, putting kitchen tools to work, creating yummy masterpieces and making new friends!
Camp: NO SCHOOL, NO PROBLEM
November 8, 10, 11
9-12pm, 3.5-7yrs, $45
1-4pm, 7-12yrs
Online RSVP Required, non-refundable

Field Station Dinosaurs

40 Fort Lee Road

Leonia, NJ 07605

November 10 & 11
School may be closed but the Field Station is open!
Come join us for a dino-mite time from 10a-5p.

Field Station: Dinosaurs is a world-class family attraction that combines cutting-edge science with the creative minds of great artists and teachers to create a one-of-kind experience that’s thrilling, educational and fun.

The Field Station is an oasis of natural wonder just minutes from New York City. Over thirty life-sized, realistic dinosaurs (including the ninety foot long Argentinosaurus, so big it’s visible from the Empire State Building) come to life thanks to the brilliant engineering of the world’s leading roboticists and the imagination of our artists.

Newark Museum

49 Washington Street, Newark

The Newark Museum, in Newark, Essex County, New Jersey, is the state’s largest museum. It holds fine collections of American art, decorative arts, contemporary art, and arts of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the ancient world. Its extensive collections of American art include works by Hiram Powers, Thomas Cole, John Singer Sargent, Albert Bierstadt, Frederick Church, Childe Hassam, Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, Joseph Stella, Tony Smith and Frank Stella.

Museum Hours Wednesday-Sunday, noon-5 pm.

Museum Admission :Adults: $15

U.S. and Canadian Veterans & their families with valid I.D.: $8

Children, Seniors & Students with valid I.D.: $8

(2 years and younger: FREE)

Members: FREE
Newark Residents: FREE
Students attending colleges and universities in Newark with valid ID: FREE

Planetarium Admission (in addition to Museum admission)

Adults $6;
Children under 12, seniors, and college students $4

Members: Adults $4; children under 12 $3

For further information, call 973.596.6544.

This museum is close and lots of fun, especially for little ones who love art. They offer great family programs on the weekends and feature exhibits daily. The museum’s hours are Wednesday – Sunday from noon – 5pm. Right now you can have fun at one of the interactive galleries like “Dynamic Earth: Revealing Natures Secrets” , “Look/Touch/Learn: Nature & Art”, Fire Museum and more! One exciting feature of this museum is the Alice and Lenard Dreyfuss Planetarium. There will be special showings of Firefall on November 6^th and 7^th at 2pm and Legends of the Night Sky at 3pm both days. The Museum Café is open from noon – 3:30pm and offers an assortment of hot and cold beverages, desserts and snacks. Suggested museum admission is $12/adults and $7/children and students (kids 2 and younger are free). Admission for the planetarium is $5/adults and $3/children and students in addition to the suggested museum donation. They give AAA discounts, if you are a member. Also, check their list of corporate underwriters here. There are many sponsor companies that get in for free.

New York City Fire Museum

http://www.nycfiremuseum.org/index.cfm

278 Spring Street

Located at 278 Spring Street between Varick and Hudson Streets in Manhattan’s Hudson Square district, west of SoHo.
Open 7 days a week: 10:00AM to 5:00PM.

ADMISSION PRICES
$8.00 for Adults.
$5.00 for Children (12 and under), seniors and students with college ID.
Children under 2 free.
For groups of 15 or more: $5.00 per person (Advance reservations are needed)
My son loves firemen and this is one of his favorite spots to visit in the city. They are open seven days a week from 10am – 5pm. The museum offers so many firemen-themed exhibits including uniforms, horse-drawn ladder wagon, early rescue gear and breathing equipment, a gooseneck pumper, double-decker Philadelphia style engine and much more. There is even an area for kids to try on some fireman gear. Plus, the gift shop has many child-sized gear and toys. Admission is $8/adults and $5/children 12 and under.

NYC Veteran’s Day Parade

http://americasparade.org/#

NYC

The Veterans Day Parade has been organized in New York since 1929. Over 25,000 people participate in the parade each year, making it the largest in the nation. It starts at approximately 11:15 AM and concludes around 3:30pm on Friday, November 11. The parade will go north on Fifth Ave, from 26th to 52nd Street.

Take the kids to the largest Veteran’s Day event in the nation! They expect more than 600,000 spectators this year and it is broadcast on television. The parade begins at Madison Square Park at 11:25am and travels up Fifth Avenue to 52^nd Street. This event is free.

Valentine’s Events for Kids and Families

Valentine Day’s is right around the corner and if you have little ones, you might be wondering about how to celebrate the holiday with them. Here is the list of Valentine’s Events for Kids and Familie.

Below, there are some unique activities in and around Jersey City, Hoboken, and NYC where you can celebrate the holiday with your family and kids!

F R I D A Y , F E B 10 th

JCFamilies Valentine’s Dance Party at the Yoga Room at Base Gym from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. We have lots of activities for you and your little ones, including: Dance Party, Music, Arts & Crafts and more…

Fees: $14 per child

No fees for the adults

Buy the ticket to save your spot. Buy ticket here : http://bit.ly/2kaWMLU

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My GYM: Valentine’s Night Out:

Drop your kids off for three hours of nonstop fun at My Gym. Activities include gymnastics, games, rides, songs, dance, relays, crafts, practice & play, and more!

From 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Pizza dinner and drink provided.

Perfect for children ages 2 and a half and up (potty-trained, please).

Pricing: Members – $40 (Siblings – $20) / Nonmembers – $50 (Siblings – $25)

Space is limited! Reserve your spot today.

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Jersey City Ballroom is offering a special dance date starting at $80 for a couple, with specialty add-ons such as roses, dessert or dancing by candle light. Availability by appointment on Feb 10-14.

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CKO Jersey City:

Valentines Day offers

3 classes + gloves for $19.99

take advantage of our Valentines Special membership offers!

ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP @ $89.99 per month

100% OFF enrollment fees. SAVING YOU $99
A complimentary 30 min. pads session. SAVING YOU $75
5 complimentary class passes. Bring a friend in for class. SAVING YOU $125
SAVING YOU over $350.00 right now!

https://www.clubready.com/getstarted/step1.asp?s=1150&id=108077

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP @ $109.99 per month

100% OFF the enrollment fees ($99.00 savings)
One complimentary 30 minute personal training ($70.00 savings)
You must commit to a minimum of 3 months.
Total Savings of almost $200.00

https://www.clubready.com/getstarted/step1.asp?s=1150&id=109309

S A T U R D A Y , F E B 11th

Mad Science Kids’ Lab:

Parents’ Night Out! Enjoy a nice night out while Mad Science entertains your kids. But beware, they may be having so much fun they won’t want to go home! The night includes dinner, dessert, a fun science class, games and activities, and a movie!

6:00-9:30 PM at the Mad Science Kids’ Lab, 720 Monroe St # E314B, Hoboken (973)542-8366

This night will be out of this world! We’ll look at our galactic neighborhood — the solar system!
The night includes sandwiches, no-cook s’mores (graham crackers, Fluff, and spreadable chocolate), a great class, games and activities, plus a movie!

$30 per child grades K-6.
Register: https://register.madscience.org/unionhudson/workshop-register.aspx?regItemSessionID=193792

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Central Park Ice Festival on Feb 11^th at Naumburg Bandshell (Mid-Park from 66th to 72nd Streets) From 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm witness ice-carving artists from Okamoto Studio use electric chain saws, chisels, and picks to transform more than 6,000 pounds of ice into a glistening replica of one of the Park’s most beloved statues. More Details at http://www.centralparknyc.org/events/individual-events/ice-festival-2016.html

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Children’s Museum of Manhattan: 3D Valentine’s Day Cards ages 6 & older. Use children’s pop-up book making techniques to create a Valentine’s Day card that really pops! Please sign up in lobby one hour before the event.

More details at: http://www.cmom.org/visit/calendar?date=2017-02-11&age=

T U E S D A Y , F E B 14th

New Moms and Kids Meet Up

Calling new moms and their babies!!
Come out and meet other moms at Bucket & Bay this Tuesday from 10am to 11:30am.
Come and build new friendships while you enjoy a cup of coffee!

Keeping active in the cold

Movement and exercise is important for everyone, but especially for young, developing kids. As children’s nervous systems are maturing, they need movement to help them make sense of the world. Children sometimes can improve their concentration and performance in school when they have movement activities interspersed throughout the day. Active movement help children to know their physical boundaries and can help them improve their general health. Our lives are getting more and more sedentary, especially with all the fun activities we can do with computers and all the great videos and shows for children. It may be especially hard to find movement opportunities for our children now that the weather is getting colder. Here are some ideas to incorporate movement activities indoors.

A mini trampoline designed for indoor use with children can be used, especially if you have little space. Exercise balls like you’d have for pilates can be fun for kids as well. If you have more space, ride on toys and scooter boards can be used indoors. Mattresses on the floor can be used for jumping on as well. All of this equipment would require close adult supervision, of course. To make it even better, join in on the fun with your kids sometimes! Wrestling with a careful adult or older child involves lots of fun movement. You can put tape on the floor (painter’s tape leaves little, if any, residue) and create lines to walk on, or jump across. You can make shapes with the tape and have the children jump between circles, square, triangles, etc. You could also make parallel lines with the tape and call it a river so the kids can climb into a box and row down the river. Let your imagination soar!

Playing in the snow can be fun for kids of all ages! You might head for indoor play places such as Gymboree or My Gym. Other indoor attractions such as Liberty Science Center, the New Jersey Children’s Museum and indoor water parks can also encourage movement.

You can put on some lively music and dance. Stop the music and play freeze dance. Or you can make up dance moves and have everyone imitate each other’s moves. You can toss a balloon in the air, or use rackets or paddles to hit it around. You can take a sheet and play parachute and put the balloons in the parachute. A lot of young kids like to have an adult hold onto either end of the sheet and have the child sit in the middle while the adults swing them back and forth. You can play bean bag toss and have bins or garbage cans to throw the bean bags in. Or you can crumble up newspapers and throw them around, throw them at targets, or throw them into bins. You can play charades. You can also walk like different animals – crab walk, jump like a frog, walk like an elephant – whatever!

These are ideas to get you started. There are a lot of things you can do with children to get them moving inside. If you have special equipment, you can use it. But you can also just use your imagination and things you have around the house. Have fun with it!

Linda Velwest is a pediatric occupational therapist working with early intervention. She also teaches Autism Movement Therapy classes

Ideas to play in the snow

Ideas to play in the snow: After the storm, kids are crazy to go outside. ow, if we go outside, let’s bring some fun with us.

Here there is a list of fn thing to do with the snow:

1.- Color the snow: Take some some spring bottles with water and some drops of food coloring. Take also the sand toys so you can pretend you are having an ice cream shop.

2.- Play snow tic tac toe: Take some sticks and some rocks or pinecones as game pieces.

3.- Make snow angels and take amazing pictures

4.- Bring some snow indoors: Bring some of the snow and let them play as they are having a Bakery. Give them some baking cups and the sprinkles could be some little rocks and sticks.

5.- Snow kitchen: If you have some backyard bring their little kitchen and appliances and pretend the snow are the ingredients for the little chef.

6.- Make funny faces on the snow

7.- If you have a Ms. or Mr. Potato head, take the pieces with you and play with them in the snow.

8.- Snow fights: These are so fun, be gentle with the little ones.

9.- Bury a treasure: Hide some toy or treat on the snow and let’s start looking for it.
10.- and if you feel adventurous, build an Igloo. Here you can check the instructions.

15 things to do with your family in a snow day

Fun things to do in jersey city

So, Finally snow is coming! Let’s plan what to do so we don’t stay on bed all day. There are many fun things you can do with your family.

1.- Watch Netflix family friendly movies: Our recommendations are:

– Snow Buddies : “In this family-friendly tale, a feisty pack of golden retriever puppies embarks on an Alaskan adventure, braving snow, ice and danger along the way.”

– Nature: Snow Monkeys : “In Japan’s frigid Shiga Highlands, a troop of snow monkeys functions in a complex society of rank and privilege where each knows its place.

-Fireplace for Your Home: “Replicate the peacefulness of an old-fashioned, wood-burning fireplace, as well as a crackling yule log fireplace, all set to holiday tunes.”

-Pingu: On Thin Ice: “Getting himself in trouble is nothing new for the mischievous penguin Pingu as he returns for more hilarious adventures in this cartoon collection.”

-Chicken Run: “This engaging stop-motion, claymation adventure tells the story of an American rooster who falls in love with a gorgeous hen on a British farm. The couple decides to run away from the farm, but they must first contend with the evil farmer who is intent on keeping them under her control. The chickens decide to attempt an escape so they don’t get turned into chicken pot pies.”

-Lilo and Stitch: “A tale of a young girl’s close encounter with the galaxy’s most wanted extraterrestrial. Lilo is a lonely Hawaiian girl who adopts a small ugly “dog,” whom she names Stitch. Stitch would be the perfect pet if he weren’t in reality a genetic experiment who has escaped from an alien planet and crash-landed on Earth. Through her love, faith and unwavering belief in ohana, the Hawaiian concept of family, Lilo helps unlock Stitch’s heart and gives him the ability to care for someone else.”

-Secret of the Kells: “In the remote Irish woods, Cellach (Brendan Gleeson) prepares a fortress for an impending attack by a Viking war party. Unbeknown to Cellach, his young nephew Brendan (Evan McGuire) — who has no taste for battle — works secretly as an apprentice in the scriptorium of the local monastery, learning the ancient art of calligraphy. As the Vikings approach, revered illuminator Aidan (Mick Lally) arrives at the monastery and recruits Brendan to complete a series of dangerous, magical tasks.”

Fun things to do in jersey city

2.- Make a dance party: After breakfast, turn up the music and start dancing with the little ones. Once they are kind of exhausted ask them to help you to build a living room Campsite

3.- Build a Living Room Fort: Let’s flip our household routine upside down. Wear pajamas, turn out the light, hide some snacks and make s’mores while watch a movie or read favorite books. Have tons of blankets, pillows, sleeping bags and stuffed animals. Hopefully they will be more relaxed and will take a nap under the fort.

4.- Make your own game: We found this website where you can make your own game with your own rules. How cool is that?

5.- Clean the house: We know , we know! Cleaning the house sometimes is not fun but this is the perfect day to clean your closets and get rid of the clutter in those drawers. Just 15 min each room and start the week with a house more organized.

6.- Arts and crafts: We have tons of arts and craft in our Pinterest board, Check them out and have fun!

7.- Neighborhood Play Date: Schedule a playdate with some of your neighbors. Make shifts so each family can have some quite time during the day.

8.- Bake; Kids love to cook and eat what they prepared afterwards. What about some cookies or muffins. When they are ready, also can be decorated,

9.- Photoshoot: Take all the halloween costumes, wigs, hats and glasses and make a fun photoshoot!

10.- Call or visit Grandparents: we bet you’ll make happy everyone with this one.

11.- Plan your next vacation: This is a perfect day to do it. One more thing out of the check list.

12.- Help a neighbor to shovel snow, specially if he is a senior

13.- Warm bubble bath for the little ones: Let them play for a while there before bedtime

14.- Write a letter with your little one to that family member or friend overseas.

15.- Play with the snow! Click here to read fun things to do with the snow.

Fun things to do in jersey city

8 places to go Skiing in and around New Jersey

Best places to go Skiing in New Jersey: If you read my post on ice skating in our area and are feeling like you are ready for more intense winter sports…let’s talk skiing! There are plenty of options that are easily accessible from the Jersey City area. The Poconos offer some great options in PA, upstate New York boasts some memorable spots and we’ve even got some right here in NJ! Here’s a handy list of some of the best ski locations based on proximity and family friendliness. Plus, many of the destinations on this list offer snowtubing, which is a fun and easy winter sport alternative. It’s a great option for all ages.

New Jersey

Mountain Creek, Vernon

Mountain Creek is located in Vernon, which is about a 1.5 hour drive from downtown Jersey City. It is located very close to the NJ/NY border. This ski resort offers 167 acres of trails on 4 mountain peaks and is the “region’s highest vertical and the only true All-Mountain Terrain Park south of Vermont.” They have merged with Crystal Springs Resort and offer golf, a spas, a lodge, several restaurants,skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing and more. They offer lessons for children as young as 4 and start at $99.99. Kids Kamp is a full-day option which includes a lift ticket, lesson and lunch for skiers and snowboarders from 4 – 7 years of age. Kids Kamp rates begin at $159.99 and include all rental equipment. Lodging options include the Grand Cascades Lodge, Minerals Resort & Spa (which they tout as their family resort), The Appalachian (studio, one and two bedroom units slope side) and Black Creek Sanctuary (gated townhomes).

Campgaw Mountain, Mahwah

This is a smaller mountain, but a great place to learn to ski or snowboard. They also offer snowtubing here. Campgaw Mountain is just under an hour’s drive from downtown Jersey City. It is a much smaller operation than your average ski resort, so it’s the perfect place to take the family if you are learning, don’t like lines and just want to have a relaxing ski experience. Programs are offered that are multi-week lessons. They offer a Cruisers program for children 4 – 6 years old. This program allows kids to become comfortable with ski equipment and learn how to ski amongst children their age. Program begins at $129. The First Step program is designed for ages 7 and up and teaches the fundamentals of skiing and snowboarding. Pricing for this program begins at $229. After that comes Next Step which is also for 7 and up and is designed for those who can safely traverse the top or mid-station of the hill. Pricing begins at $229. Daily lessons are also offered on a group, private or semi-private basis. Pricing varies, but begins at $39 for a children’s lesson (ages 4 – 6). Check the website for details. Snowtubing is a popular family activity that Campgaw Mountain offers. Ride a tube down the hill and use a surface lift to just ride your tube right back up again. Sessions sell out quickly and it is recommended that you purchase your tickets online in advance. All riders must be a minimum height of 42 inches. Hours and rates vary, see the website for details.

Thunder Ridge Ski Area, Patterson

Thunder Ridge is about an hour and 45 minute drive from downtown Jersey City. They offer 30 trails, 3 chairlifts and 4 magic carpet lifts. Mid-week specials are offered Monday through Thursday where lift tickets are only $25 for ages 6 and up from 10am – 5pm. Lessons are offered for every skill level, from beginner to expert for kids 3 and up. Private lessons are offered for $105/hour. Many types of group lessons are available ranging from a Mommy/Daddy and Me class for ages 3 – 5 which is an hour in length and costs $49 per parent and child. Thunderbolts is a lesson for children ages 4 – 7 years old and introduces kids to skiing. A 75 minute lesson is $41. Ridge Riders is a lesson for snowboarders ages 6 – 7 and is $45 for a 75 minute lesson. Other groups for all ages are available, check the website for pricing and times. Advance reservations are always recommended. Half-Day programs are offered on weekends and holidays from 9:30am – 1pm for children ages 5 – 9 years old. Prices vary. They even offer babysitting options if you want to hit the slopes with your significant other and your little one isn’t ready. Lodging options in the immediate surrounding areas include Comfort Suites, Ethan Allen Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn and more. Check their website for deals and packages available through the listed hotels. In addition, many local restaurants are located nearby.

New York

Hunter Mountain, Hunter

One of the most popular NY ski destinations, Hunter is about a 2.5 hour drive from downtown Jersey City. Many family-friendly winter activities are available. They offer the largest snowtubing park in New York State including more than 20 chutes nearly 1,000 feet long, a mini tubing park for children, a snack bar, fire pit and more! Two hour sessions begin every hour on the hour for $20/person 42 inches and above. Two hour sessions are available for children 33 inches – 42 inches for $30 for child and adult. Advance booking is recommended. There are many lessons and programs offered for all ages. The Explorers Program is for ages 4 – 6 years old and offers fun and kid-friendly ski instruction. You can drop kids off, but you must be on the premises during program time. Single sessions that are 2 hours are offered, as well as full day sessions which are 4 hours and include snack and lunch. Single sessions are $85 including life, lesson and equipment (no lunch) and full day sessions are $125 including lift, lesson, equipment, lunch and snack. Mountaineers is a program offered for ages 7 – 12 years old and includes ski and snowboard lessons. Singles sessions are offered for $85 including lift, lesson and equipment. Full day sessions are $125 and include lift, lesson, equipment, lunch and snack. Reservations are required for all programs. If you want to hit the slopes for a bit on your own, try Playcare, which is a childcare service for children ages 2 – 6 years old. The service is $85 for a full day (up to 9 hours), $68 for a half day (up to 4 hours) and there are 2 hour options available for $45 per child. There are many lodging options including the Kaatskill Mountain Club and Liftside Condos, which are slopeside and offer ski-in/ski-out access.

Mount Peter, Warwick

Mount Peter was actually started in 1936 by Macy’s Department Store to show off and sell their ski fashion. It is located in Warwick, NY, just over the NJ border, just a bit more than an hour’s drive from downtown Jersey City and offers 14 trails and 5 lifts. Lessons are offered for every age and level. They even offer a free beginner lesson on weekends and holidays for skiers (with the purchase of a lift ticket for ages 5 and up). Pete’s Pals is a program offered for children ages 4 and under (must be potty-trained). The cost is $90 and includes the lesson, ski equipment, lift ticket/area pass and hot chocolate. Also, a Kids Camp is offered for 3 hours for ages 5 and up. Children must have skied or snowboarded before and can ride the area by oneself. Weekends only for $195 (without equipment rental $165). Many deals are offered including Discount Tuesdays for which you must show your current union, school, military or AARP card and get a half price lift/area ticket from 9am – 5pm. Ski and Stay packages are available at many area hotels and bed and breakfasts.

Note: There is a program called ISKINY Free for Kids offered for 3rd and 4th graders from anywhere (not just NY). The program gives kids the opportunity to ski or ride free at a majority of New York ski resorts this winter when accompanied by a paying adult. There is also a Learn to Ski or Ride Passport available for free, but not every resort is participating in that. Check the website and apply to get a ticket book of free lift coupons.

Pennsylvania

Camelback Mountain, Tannersville

The Poconos offers many fun ski resort options, including Camelback. It’s about 1.5 hour’s drive from downtown Jersey City and offers the biggest ski and snowboarding terrain (34 trails and 16 lifts) in the area and boasts the biggest snowtubing park in the US. They offer many packages and lessons for kids including CamelCare Adventurers which is a half-day (2.5 hours) program geared toward children ages 4 – 12 years. Midweek rates are $110 and weekend/holiday rates are $129 and include ski or snowboard rental, instructional time and lift ticket. There are various group and private lessons available, as well, with rates ranging from $35 – $125. Click here for details. It is highly recommended that you sign up for all lessons and programs online in advance. Snowtubing is a popular family activity at Camelback. There are up to 42 lanes of snowtubing available and there are tubing hours daily. Weekend and holiday tubing is limited to 3-hour sessions, but mid-week is unlimited and offered at one flat rate for the whole day. Rates vary, so click here to check. A double tube only with parent has a minimum height requirement of 33 inches to 43 inches. Single and double tubes are for 44 inches and up. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult with a valid tubing ticket. Camelback Lodge is located on-site and offers various rooms and suites. Alternate area lodging is available, click here for details.

Great Wolf Lodge, Scotrun

Great Wolf Lodge doesn’t offer on-site skiing, however, they are located very near to Camelback and, similarly, they are about a 1.5 hour’s drive from downtown Jersey City. The unique element to Great Wolf Lodge is their large indoor waterpark and multitude of children’s activities. Activities include arcades, a children’s spa, a kid-friendly mini bowling alley, kiddie movie theater, ropes course and many quest type activities, plus much more! The waterpark includes rides for kiddies as small and toddlers on up. There are many themed-rides and pool areas. There’s something for every age. You attain access to the waterpark and activities by staying at the lodge. The waterpark allows you access after 1pm on your check-in day through the day you check-out. Unique family suites are available including KidKamp Suites with tents within your room and KidCabin suites where the kid’s beds are housed inside a little log cabin (it even comes with a TV inside!). They also offer more standard suites for those who want a more traditional room. Resort amenities include lots of on-site restaurants (even a sweet shop!), shops, an adult spa, a children’s spa and a fitness room. It’s basically a kiddie wonderland located near several ski/winter sport areas.

Shawnee Mountain, East Stroudsburg

Shawnee is a great family destination for winter sports and is located very near to Camelback and is only a little over an hour’s drive from downtown Jersey City. They offer 23 trails, 8 lifts and 2 parks, plus snowtubing. Shawnee offers morning, afternoon and full-day children’s lessons. Three-hour group format sessions include use of an exclusive area for beginners, instruction, ski/snowboard rentals and youth lift ticket. SkIwee is for ages 4 – 6 and is just for skiing. Morning and afternoon session are available and one session is $100 and include snack. Mountain Cruisers is for ages 7 – 15 (ski only) and is available morning, afternoon or full day for $100 per session. Snack is included with half-day programs and lunch is included with full-day programs. Young Riders is for ages 7 – 15 for snowboarders only. Morning and afternoon sessions are available for $100 per session. Mid-week programs are for entry-level riders and weekends are for all levels. Snacks are included with all sessions. SKIbaby is an intro class for 3 year olds. Sessions include a one-hour ski lesson and equipment rental for $70. They also offer Mommy & Me ski lessons for parents and children together. One hour lessons are $70 per session. WEEriders is designed for children ages 4 – 6 that want to snowboard. This 2-hour group session includes a lesson and equipment rental and cost $90. Snowtubing is offered in 2 or 4 hour sessions. Prices vary based on time and length, click here for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult. There are many lodging options in the surrounding area including The Shawnee Inn, which is on-site. Click here for area dining options.