The Polar Express North Fork Trolley Ride
Friday, Nov. 29, 4:30 p.m.
Inspired by the book written by Chris Van Allsburg and its film adaptation, kids can take a trolley ride from Riverhead to the “North Pole.” Along the way, kids can interact with characters from the film while also listening to a reading of the book. Upon arrival at the destination, the Conductor will guide the kids to meet more characters, including Santa Claus. There will be hot cocoa and cookies available there too. Santa will also be handing out to the kids their “First Gift of Christmas.” Tickets are $57 per person.
Where: All-Star Bowling Alley, 96 Main Rd., Riverhead, NY 11901
Info: northforktrolley.com
Bayville Winter Wonderland
Friday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m.
Bayville Adventure Park will be transformed into a winter-themed attraction. Kids can build their own stuffed bear at the “Bear Factory.” Santa Claus will be on hand for children to meet. Weather permitting, there should be an ice skating rink, rock climbing, train ride and mini golf available. Additionally, there will be a funhouse and arcade. Older kids could also visit the haunted Christmas attraction, where they should be on the lookout for Krampus.
Where: Bayville Adventure Park, 8 Bayville Ave., Bayville, NY 11709
Info: 516-624-7433 or bayvillewinterwonderland.com
Kids Workshop: Stocking Ornament
Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m.
Kids will be given a kit and taught how to nail a frame to the inside of their ornament. With help from parents and Home Depot store associates, kids will give their creations a unique design by painting and putting stickers on it. In addition to bringing their crafts home with them, the kids will receive a certificate of achievement, workshop apron and commemorative pin.
Where: Home Depot, 202 Airport Plz., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Info: 631-753-0814 or homedepot.com
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 1, 1 p.m.
The Tilles Center will be hosting a live stage show for kids. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” follows a mouse, elf and little girl, with the latter determined to witness a Christmas miracle. Families can arrive as early as 11:30 in the Goldsmith Atrium to participate in activities like photo ops, holiday crafts, games and music. Ticket prices range from $29 to $56.
Where: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville, NY 11548
Info: 516-299-3100 or tillescenter.org
A Christmas Carol
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
The Long Island Children’s Museum will be putting on a puppet show of the famous Charles Dickens Christmas story. Victorian-costumed holiday revelers will welcome audience members as they enter the Theater. Playwright and director Christopher Parks, of Experiential Theater Company is working with the performers and creative team from the LICM Theater to retell this story of redemption and celebration.
Where: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
Info: 516-224-5800 or licm.org
