Queens families looking for festive and educational holiday fun need look no further than their local parks.
NYC Parks is hosting a variety of family-friendly events throughout the borough this holiday season, ranging from nature-themed activities to puppet shows. These events, held in collaboration with the Urban Park Rangers, are designed to engage children and families in nature exploration and holiday cheer.
On Saturday, Dec. 24, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Captain Tilly Park in Jamaica will host a birding program, “Birding for Kids.” Families are invited to join Urban Park Rangers for a guided tour through the park to learn about the birds that call Queens home during the winter months. The park is located at 85-01 165th St.
For a creative and educational activity, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park will hold a tree cookie craft event, “Tree Cookie Creation for Kids,” on Tuesday, Dec. 26, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants can learn about the age and history of trees through their rings while decorating wooden “cookies” to take home. This event will take place at the Al Oerter Recreation Center at 131-40 Fowler Ave., Flushing.
Nature enthusiasts will not want to miss a nocturnal hike at Forest Park, “Nocturnal Hike and Campfire for Kids” scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 27, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Families can explore the park’s trails while learning about the habits of nighttime wildlife. Meet at the Forest Park Visitor Center at Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive in Forest Hills.
For younger children, Juniper North Playground in Middle Village will host a nature games session, “Rangers Games for Kids” on Monday, Dec. 30, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Activities include interactive games that teach kids about local plants and animals in an engaging and fun way. The playground is located at 80th Street and Juniper Valley Road.
Rounding out the holiday programming, Fort Totten Park in Bayside will present a puppet show, “Nature Puppet Show for Kids” on Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The performance, centered around winter and wildlife themes, will take place at the Fort Totten Visitors Center, located at Totten Avenue and Cross Island Parkway, Bayside.
These free events provide Queens families with opportunities to celebrate the holiday season while learning about nature. The NYC Parks Department and Urban Park Rangers encourage participants to dress warmly and be prepared for outdoor conditions.
For more information about these events and other programs offered by NYC Parks during the holiday season, visit nycgovparks.org or contact the parks directly.
