Holiday season is already in full swing, with lights, decorated windows and online and in-store sales. We’ve put together a list of over 100 events to help get you in a festive mood this December, from Hanukkah parties and tot Shabbats to concerts and museum programs designed to keep everyone happy and entertained all month long.
Hanukkah 2017 begins at sundown on Tuesday, December 12th and concludes at sundown on Wednesday, December 20th.
Brought to you in partnership with PJ Library in New York
Brooklyn | Long Island | Manhattan | Queens | Staten Island | Westchester
Brooklyn
ShaJam Fridays 
A fun and interactive Shabbat experience with singing, movement, bubbles, parachute play, and other fun. Best for ages 5 and under, drop-in. Free.
JCC Brooklyn – Clinton Hill, 309 Grand Ave
Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
Fridays @ 4
Tot Shabbat for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers led by guitarist and singer Ora Fruchter, with singing, dancing, and stories. Free and open to all.
Union Temple of Brooklyn, 17 Eastern Parkway
Fridays, December 1, 8, 15 & 22, 4 – 5 p.m.
Family Shabbat Service & Hanukkah Dinner
Family-friendly Shabbat service with singing, stories, dancing, and dreidel-playing followed by dinner. RSVP requested. All ages.
Bay Ridge Jewish Center, Fourth Ave & 81st St
Friday, December 1, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Out of the Shabbox
A drop-in, cross-cultural, interfaith, arts-based Shabbat experience with music, movement, storytelling, and snack. Free.
Union Temple of Brooklyn, 17 Eastern Parkway, 4th fl
Saturdays, December 2, 9 & 16, 9:30 – 11 a.m.
ShaJam Singalong
An interactive family Shabbat experience with singing, dancing, and stories. Free and open to all.
JCC Brooklyn – Clinton Hill, 309 Grand Ave
Saturdays, December 2 & 23, 4 – 5 p.m.
2nd Annual Art/Makers Market
Buy original handcrafted items and works of art and enjoy some wine and cheese while you shop. Free admission.
Bay Ridge Jewish Center, Fourth Ave & 81st St
Sunday, December 3, Noon – 4 p.m.
Hanukkah Songs and Nosh
Start Hanukkah early with a sing-along and a chance to schmooze with other neighborhood families over bagels and coffee. Best for families with children ages 2 and under, but open to all. RSVP requested but not required. Free.
Park Slope Jewish Center, 1320 8th Ave
Sunday, December 3, 10 – 10:45 a.m.
Sunday Afternoon Songs, Play, and Snacks with PJ Library at Busy Bodies
Hanukkah songs, stories, and snacks with PJ Library and Tkiya: The Jewish Community Music Initiative. For families with children ages 4 and under. Free. Limited space available, RSVP strongly encouraged.
Busy Bodies Brooklyn, 1004 Fulton St
Sunday, December 3, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Wee Jam
Drop-in class for babies and toddlers, with singing, dancing, stories, parachute, and bubbles. Choose from multiple times and locations.
Busy Bodies Brooklyn, 1004 Fulton St
Mondays, December 4, 11 & 18,, 3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
Edamama Cute Cuts & More, 568 Union Ave
Mondays, December 4, 11 & 18, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m., 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. & Noon – 12:45 p.m.
JCC Brooklyn Clinton Hill, 309 Grand Ave
Tuesdays, December 5, 12, 19 & 26, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
Sing-Along Shabbat @ BRJC
Shabbat morning experience for families with children ages 5 and under with singing, guitar, puppets, and musical prayer followed by challah and grape juice.
Bay Ridge Jewish Center, Fourth Ave & 81st St
Saturday, December 9, 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
PJ Hanukkah Havdalah
Come in your PJ’s for a musical Havdalah, songs, snacks, and Hanukkah crafts. Best for kids in K – 5th grade, but all are welcome. Advance registration requested.
Park Slope Jewish Center, 1320 8th Ave
Saturday, December 9, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
ShaJam Singalong
An interactive family Shabbat experience with singing, dancing, and stories. Free and open to all.
Kings Bay Y at North Williamsburg, 14 Hope St
Saturday, December 9, 4 – 5 p.m.
Shorefront Y Hanukkah Festival
Games, face painting, holiday treats, crafts, and more. RSVP requested but not required. Free.
Shorefront Y, 3300 Coney Island Ave
Sunday, December 10, 3 p.m.
Doughnuts and Dreidels: Hanukkah Party at JCC Brooklyn Windsor Terrace
Community Hanukkah party with treats, crafts, singing with Tkiya: the Jewish Community Music Project and a volunteer opportunity with Repair the World. Free.
JCC Brooklyn Windsor Terrace, 1224 Prospect Ave (corner of Vanderbilt)
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 5 p.m.
Family Hanukkah Concert at Brooklyn Bowl
Live music with Rabbi Dan and the New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars, latkes, dreidels, and menorah lighting. Tickets available online.
Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave
Sunday, December 17, 6 – 8 p.m.
Clinton Hill Community Hanukkah Celebration
An afternoon of Hanukkah family fun with dreidels, latkes, activities, and music and movement with Tkiya: the Jewish Community Music Initiative. Free and open to all. RSVP requested.
JCC Brooklyn Clinton Hill, 309 Grand Ave
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 5 p.m.
#BeTheLight Hanukkah Party & Toy Drive
Celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah with Fig Tree, an independent Jewish education program for kids from interfaith, interracial, and secular backgrounds, with food, wine, crafts, and games. RSVP requested. Free with RSVP.
Old First Reform Church, 729 Carroll St
Sunday, December 17, 4 – 6 p.m.
Hanukkah Party for All
Holiday fun for all ages, including games, crafts, doughnut decorating, latkes, and candle lighting.
Bay Ridge Jewish Center, Fourth Ave & 81st St
Sunday, December 17, 4 – 6 p.m.
PJ Library Hanukkah Concert
Holiday concert featuring singer-storyteller Ira Levin. Best for ages 5 and under. RSVP requested. Free.
Union Temple of Brooklyn, 17 Eastern Parkway, 4th fl
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 4 p.m.
Hanukkah Celebration
Hanukkah fun for the whole family with a DJ, food, dreidel tournament, and family candle-lighting. Buy tickets in advance or at the door.
Union Temple of Brooklyn, 17 Eastern Parkway, 4th fl
Sunday, December 17, 4 – 6 p.m.
Tot Shabbat
Family Shabbat experience with songs, stories, instruments, and dancing for families with children ages 5 and under. Siblings and caregivers welcome. Free.
Bay Ridge Jewish Center, Fourth Ave & 81st St
Friday, December 22, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
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Long Island
Friday Night Shabbat Service
A festive and musical Friday night service.
Bethpage Worship Center, 600 Broadway, Bethpage
Friday, December 1, 7:30 – 9 p.m.
The Magic of a New Week
An interactive family magic show with a live rabbit, story time sing-a-long, and pizza bagels. All ages. Free.
Merrick Jewish Centre, 225 Fox Blvd
Saturday, December 2, 5:45 – 6:30 p.m.
Superhero Sundae
Superhero boot camp for preschoolers with food, music, and a tzedakah project. Free.
Hewlett East Rockaway Jewish Centre Nursery School, 295 Main St, East Rockaway
Sunday, December 3, Noon – 2 p.m.
Bagels & Blox – Hanukkah
Celebrate Hanukkah at this monthly drop-in program with free play, crafts, food, music and movement, stories, and bagels. For children ages 1 – 6 accompanied by a grown-up. Siblings welcome. RSVP requested. Free and open to all.
Temple Judea, 333 Searingtown Rd, Manhasset
Sunday, December 3, 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Get Loose With Mother Goose
Songs, stories, and fingerplay for toddlers ages 2 and under with a grown-up. Advance registration required.
HANC Plainview, 25 Country Dr, Plainview
Sundays, December 3, 10 & 17, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
PJ Library Celebrates Hanukkah
Celebrate Hanukkah with stories, crafts, and songs, sponsored by Central Synagogue-Congregation Beth Emeth. Best for families with children ages 8 and under. Free and open to all.
Turn of the Corkscrew Books and Wine, 110 N Park Ave, Rockville Centre
Sunday, December 3, 2 – 3 p.m.
Tot Shabbat
The first in a series of “around-the-world” Tot Shabbats with an Italian-inspired Shabbat dinner. RSVP requested. Free.
Hewlett East Rockaway Jewish Center, 295 Main St, East Rockaway
Friday, December 8, 6 – 8 p.m.
Tot Shabbat with Temple Tots
Tot Shabbat and story time followed by bagels and playtime, a make-your-own-menorah craft, and Hanukkah treats. Best for ages 6 and under. RSVP requested. Free.
Temple Am Echad, One Saperstein Plaza, Lynbrook
Saturday, December 9, 10 a.m.
PJ Library Celebrates Hanukkah
Music, menorah-making, and fun. RSVP requested.
Temple Tikvah, 3315 Hillside Ave, New Hyde Park
Saturday, December 9, 10:15 – 11:45 a.m.
Hanukkah Happening
Celebrate Hanukkah with a sing-along, and crafts, shop for gifts at the gift fair and check out Jewish summer camps at the camp fair. Food will be available for purchase. All ages. Free.
Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave, Huntington
Sunday, December 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Hands on Hanukkah
Celebrate Hanukkah with crafts, face painting, cookie decorating, live entertainment, and more. Choose from two locations. All ages. Free.
Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove
Walt Whitman Mall, 160 Walt Whitman Rd, Huntington
Sunday, December 10, 1 – 4 p.m.
Hanukkah Carnival
Hanukkah-themed crafts, doughnuts, latkes, and fun. Free.
HANC Plainview, 25 Country Dr, Plainview
Sunday, December 10, 10:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Children’s Hanukkah Fair
Hanukkah fun with menorah-making, edible art projects, dreidel spinning, STEM table, and latkes. Free.
Mid-Island Y Jewish Community Center, 45 Manetto Hill Rd, Plainview
Sunday, December 10, 2 – 4 p.m.
Hanukkah at Dolphin Book Shop
Stories, songs, and latkes with the Reconstructionist Synagogue of the North Shore. For families with children ages 7 and under. Free.
Dolphin Book Shop, 299 Main St, Port Washington
Wednesday, December 13, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Pop Up Shabbat
A musical celebration of Shabbat and Hanukkah for families with children ages 6 and under. Free. RSVP requested.
Williston Park Library & Village Hall — 3rd fl, 494 Willis Avenue, Williston Park
Thursday, December 14, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Hannukah Tot Shabbat
Celebrate Shabbat and Hanukkah with singing, dancing, candle lighting, a story, Torah parade, crafts, and dinner. For families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. RSVP required for dinner. Free and open to all.
North Shore Synagogue, 83 Muttontown Eastwoods Rd, Syosset
Friday, December 15, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Hanukkah Service & Dinner
Community dinner and service in celebration of Hanukkah with Makom NY. Register online.
Bethpage Worship Center, Bethpage Worship Center, Bethpage
Friday, December 15, 5:30 – 9 p.m.
Friday Night Live – Hanukkah Celebration
Family rock Shabbat followed by dinner and live entertainment from comedian & ventriloquist John Pizzi from America’s Got Talent.
Temple Avodah, 3050 Oceanside Rd, Oceanside
Friday, December 15, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Children’s Hanukkah Party
Hanukkah celebration for all ages with crafts, stories, cookie baking, chocolate-making, and a holiday sing-along. RSVP requested.
Central Synagogue – Beth Emeth, 430 DeMott Ave, Rockville Centre
Sunday, December 17, Noon – 2 p.m.
Hanukkah Happening
Live entertainment with Jester Jim, raffles, a free gift for every child, Maccabee Market for gift shopping and food available for purchase. Free.
North Shore Jewish Center, 385 Old Town Rd, Port Jefferson Station
Sunday, December 17, 10:30 a.m. – Noon
HJC Community Candle Lighting
Come together for the last night of Hanukkah, light the hanukkiah (menorah) in front of the synagogue and then enjoy hot cocoa and doughnuts. Free.
Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave, Huntington
Tuesday, December 19, 6:15 – 7:30 p.m.
9th Annual World Series of Dreidels
Spin and win with a pizza dinner followed by a dreidel tournament with trophies and prizes. Advance registration required.
Mid-Island Y Jewish Community Center, 45 Manetto Hill Rd, Plainview
Tuesday, December 19, 6:15 – 8:30 p.m.
Tot Shabbat
Bring the family and experience the warmth and spirit of Shabbat.
Temple Tikvah, 3315 Hillside Ave, New Hyde Park
Friday, December 22, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
Pajama Party
Come in your pajamas for dinner, a story, and activities. Parents get to schmooze while the kids have fun. Best for age 2 – 6 years. RSVP required. Free.
HANC Plainview, 25 Country Dr, Plainview
Tuesday, December 26, 6 – 7:15 p.m.
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Manhattan
Downtown
Hanukkah Shabbat & Downtown Dreidel Competition
Musical Friday night Shabbat service with Tamid followed by dinner and Hanukkah festivities including a dreidel spinning competition. Free.
The Chapel, 209 Broadway
Friday, December 1, 6 – 9 p.m.
PJ Play! at Pause Play
A day of family activities including family swim, GaGa, yoga, an adults-only whiskey tasting and a live performance by WonderSpark puppets featuring the PJ Library book Ziz and the Hanukkah Miracle.
14th Street Y Theater, 344 East 14th St
Saturday, December 2, 2 – 6 p.m.
It’s Almost Hanukkah Tot Shabbat
A special, Hanukkah-themed Tot Shabbat with singing, dancing, prayer, and stories, followed by grape juice and challah. Best for families with children ages 5 and under, RSVP requested. Free.
JCP Downtown, 146 Duane St
Saturday, December 2, 10 – 11 a.m.
New Families, New Traditions
Drop-in family program with the Yellow Sneaker music group and its puppets. Free.
Museum of Jewish Heritage-A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, Edmond J. Safra Plaza, 36 Battery Pl
Sunday, December 3, 10:30 a.m.
Storytime @ The Museum of Jewish Heritage
Drop-in storytime for children ages 4 and under. Free.
Museum of Jewish Heritage-A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, Edmond J. Safra Plaza, 36 Battery Pl
Thursdays, December 7 & 21, 3:30 p.m.
PJ Library Shabbat
Shabbat family fun with stories, music, blessings, art, and bagels. Limited space available, RSVP requested. Free.
Tamid Education Center, 299 Broadway
Saturday, December 9, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Latkapalooza
Get ready for Hanukkah with food, music, and hands-on activities for families with children ages 3 – 10. Buy tickets in advance or at the door.
Museum of Jewish Heritage-A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, Edmond J. Safra Plaza, 36 Battery Pl
Sunday, December 10, 10 a.m. – Noon
Menorah Mania! A Hanukkah Family Celebration
Tour the museum’s newest exhibit with over 100 whimsical menorahs and then create your own menorah, snack on edible dreidels, and enjoy a Hanukkah sing-along.
Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St
Sunday, December 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Grand Hanukkah Menorah Lighting
Festive public menorah lighting with jugglers, live music, hot latkes, balloon art, and other holiday fun. Free.
Corner of Delancey and Suffolk
Tuesday, December 12, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Downtown Lights: Hanukkah Candle Lighting
Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with the entire neighborhood, with doughnuts, dreidels, and glowing giveaways sponsored by the Jewish Community Project Downtown. Free and open to all.
Washington Market Park, 199 Chambers
Tuesday, December 12, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Latkes and Love with Lab/Shul
Celebrate the tastes, smells, and feels of Hanukkah with latke making and candle lighting with Lab/Shul’s teaching artists. For families with children ages 8 and under, siblings welcome. RSVP required. Free.
Private Home, Address Provided Upon RSVP
Wednesday, December 13, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Hanukkah Hoopla
Hanukkah fun for families with children ages 5 and under with PJ Library stories, crafts, puppets and singing with Ora & Yoshie Fruchter, and holiday snacks. Limited space available, RSVP required. Free.
JCP Downtown, 146 Duane St
Saturday, December 16, 10 a.m. – Noon
Menorah on the High Line
Celebrate Hanukkah with lively music, holiday-themed crafts, hot cocoa, doughnuts, latkes, and other Hanukkah treats. Free.
The High Line (15th Street Porch), 450 W 15th St
Sunday, December 17. 4:30 – 6 p.m.
December 25 @ The Museum
Family-friendly tours of the core exhibition and a performance of “The Sorceress” a production by the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbeine. Tours are free with museum admission, advance ticket purchase for the show strongly recommended.
Museum of Jewish Heritage-A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, Edmond J. Safra Plaza, 36 Battery Pl
Monday, December 25, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Midtown
Tot Shabbat
Family-friendly, musical Shabbat service followed by a light, kid-friendly dinner. For families with children ages 5 and under. RSVP requested. Free.
Congregation Habonim, 103 West End Ave
Friday, December 1, 5:15 – 6:30 p.m.
Shabbat Central
A warm and accessible Shabbat experience for families with children ages 5 and under, including live music, prayer, movement, and stories followed by a light meal. Free and open to all.
Central Synagogue’s Community House, 123 East 55 St
Saturday, December 9, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Friday, December 15, 5 – 6 p.m.
Family Hanukkah Celebration
Paint your own dreidel, decorate doughnuts, and sing Hanukkah songs. RSVP requested.
The Actors’ Temple, 339 W. 47th St
Sunday, December 10, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Chopped Latke-Off
Compete to make the most delicious latkes using mystery ingredients. Register as individuals or as a family team.
Lincoln Square Synagogue, 180 Amsterdam Ave
Wednesday, December 13, 7 – 9 p.m.
Upper East Side
Access Family Workshop: For Visitors with Learning or Developmental Disabilities
An opportunity for individuals with learning or developmental disabilities to explore the museum’s exhibit: “Veiled Meanings: Fashioning Jewish Dress” and to create original art inspired by the exhibit. Best for ages 5 – 17. RSVP required. Free.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Sunday, December 3, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Bagels from Benny – the Musical
An original performance based upon the PJ Library book Bagels from Benny. After the performance, families are invited to meet the cast, schmooze, and snack. Advance ticket purchase recommended.
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave
Friday, December 8, 1 p.m., Sunday, December 10, 2 p.m., Sunday, December 17, 4 p.m.
Hanukkah & Me
Celebrate Hanukkah and Shabbat with songs, stories, and a snack followed by a light dinner. Best for families with children ages 6 and under, siblings welcome. Advance registration required.
Or Zarua, 127 East 82nd St
Friday, December 8, 5:15 – 7 p.m.
Hanukkah Family Day: Art, Music, and More
Celebrate Hanukkah at the Jewish Museum, build a Hanukkah lamp with found objects, dance to the music of Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights, watch a drawing performance by Jeff Hopkins, and collaborate on a giant light collage. Free with museum admission.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Sunday, December 10, Noon – 4 p.m.
Hanukkah Festival: Bring in the Lights
Get ready for Hanukkah at the Y with holiday crafts, treats, a community service project, performances, games, and other activities. Buy tickets in advance or at the door.
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave
Sunday, December 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Archaeology Dig Drop-In
Kids have a chance to learn about ancient artifacts at a simulated archaeological dig the second Sunday of every month. Free with museum admission.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Sunday, December 10, Noon – 3 p.m.
Glow-in-the-Dark Hanukkah Dinner
A family-friendly celebration with glow sticks, music, latkes, and light. Register online.
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave
Friday, December 15, 6 – 9 p.m.
Mister G Family Hanukkah Concert
A high-energy Hanukkah concert with Latin Grammy-winning children’s musician Mr. G. Buy tickets in advance or at the door. Best for families with children ages 8 and under.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Sunday, December 17, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Picture This
A gallery program with activities, art, and a PJ Library story followed by creating original art in the art studio and a snack. The program concludes with a Hanukkah-themed concert by Mister G. Best for children ages 4 – 10 years accompanied by an adult.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave.
Sunday, December 17, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Studio Art Sessions: Painted Portrait Multiples
Create your own original work of art inspired by the exhibit, “Modigliani Unmasked.” Free with museum admission. Age 3 and up.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Sunday, December 17, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Vacation Week Art Workshops
Design a wearable work of art inspired by the drawings and costumes on exhibit. Best for ages 3 – 10, free with museum admission. RSVP recommended.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
December 24 – 26, 28 – 29 & 31, 1 – 4 p.m.
Oran Etkin Concert
An interactive musical journey through the African landscape with singing, dancing, and drums. Buy tickets in advance or at the door.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave
Monday, December 25, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Upper West Side
Shabbat Sing-Along
Sing, dance, and celebrate Shabbat in the JCC lobby on the first Friday of every month. Best for ages 4 and under. Free.s
JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave
Friday, December 1, 9 – 9:30 a.m.
SAJ Pela
Parents and children explore Shabbat, Jewish and American holidays and values through storytelling, song, dance, movement, and creative play. Best for ages 4 and under, drop-in. Choose from multiple days and locations. Free.
The SAJ (Society for the Advancement of Judaism), 15 W 86th St
Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16 & 23, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
St. Agnes Library, 444 Amsterdam Ave
Tuesdays, December 12 & 19 & Friday, December 17, 11 – 11:45 a.m.
Abstract Art Family Event with Tobi Kahn
A unique experience for Russian-Jewish families. Explore art and create an original piece of abstract art led by art historian and artist Tobi Kahn. Best for families with children ages 2 – 12. Advance ticket purchase required.
Z Play School, 346 West 72nd St
Sunday, December 3, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Infants & Young Children Family Shabbat Dinner
Celebrate Shabbat with family friends, beginning with appetizers and a sing-along followed by blessings and dinner. Advance registration required.
JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave
Friday, December 8, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Dreidels and Donuts: A Hanukkah Concert
Sing and dance with the Bossy Frog band, enjoy latkes, doughnuts, and holiday crafts, and shop at the book fair. Best for families with children ages 5 and under. Register online.
Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, 30 West 68th St
Sunday, December 10, 10 a.m. – Noon
Hanukkah on Ice NYC
Ice skate to live Jewish music, nosh on Hanukkah treats and watch the lighting of a hand-carved six-foot-tall ice menorah. Buy tickets online or at the door.
Wollman Rink, Central Park
Tuesday, December 12, 6 – 9 p.m.
Hanukkah Celebration
Explore the holiday through songs, art, and open play. Best for ages 4 and under. Free.
JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave
Tuesday, December 12, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
PJ Challah for Hunger Community Baking Experience
Monthly community challah-baking experience for families with children ages 6 and under. Participants braid two challahs — one to take home, and one to give away, followed by stories, songs, and snacks. RSVP requested. Free.
Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 7 West 83rd St, btw CPW & Columbus
Saturday, December 16, 10:15- 11:15 a.m.
PJ and Play Storytime
Warm up with winter storytime including stories, crafts, a snack, and playtime on the indoor playground.
Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 7 West 83rd St, btw CPW & Columbus
Saturday, December 16, 4 – 5 p.m.
Hanukkah Fun for All Ages
Activities for all ages including stories, movement, glow-in-the-dark crafts, dreidel games, music, and Hanukkah treats.
The SAJ (Society for the Advancement of Judaism), 15 W 86th St
Saturday, December 16, 5 – 9 p.m.
Beit Rabban’s Festival of Lights
Explore the theme of light using art, science, storytelling, music, and Hebrew language. Best for ages 2 – 5 years accompanied by an adult. Free.
Beit Rabban Day School, 15 West 86th St
Sunday, December 17, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Family Hanukkah Celebration
Celebrate the sixth night of Hanukkah at BJ with songs, candle-making, dreidel-spinning and other fun. Best for ages 6 and under. Free.
B’nai Jeshurun, 270 West 89th St
Sunday, December 17, 3:45 – 4:30 p.m.
Shine Your Light: A Hanukkah Festival That Puts Your Family’s Love into Action
An intergenerational holiday celebration with snacks, crafts, music, storytelling, and candle lighting with Romemu, PJ Library, and Tkiya: The Jewish Community Music Project.
The New Jewish Home, 120 W 106th St
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 5 p.m.
PJ Library Storytime
Celebrate Jewish holidays and traditions with stories and songs. Best for ages 4 and under. Free.
JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave
Monday, December 18, 3 – 3:45 p.m.
Harlem
SAJ Pela
Parents and children explore Shabbat, Jewish and American holidays, and values through storytelling, song, dance, movement, and creative play. Best for ages 4 and under, drop-in. Free.
JCC Harlem, 318 W 118th St
Friday, December 1, 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Saturday SoulSpa
An afternoon gathering of music, prayer, art, interactive learning, kids’ activities, treats, and Havdalah led by Lab/Shul favorites Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie and Shira Kline.
JCC Harlem, 318 W 118th St
Saturday, December 2, 4 – 6:30 p.m. Lab/Shul
Saturday Songs & Stories in Harlem
Celebrate Shabbat and the weekend with stories, music, and fun. Best for children ages 5 and under and their families. RSVP requested but not required. Free and open to all.
JCC Harlem, 318 W 118th St
Saturday, December 9, 11 a.m., Saturday, December 16, 4 p.m.
Washington Heights
Be Baby: Discovery Zone
Babies ages 6 – 12 months and a parent or caregiver will explore a classroom setting with circle time, live ukulele music, and story time while grown-ups have a chance to schmooze.
YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, 54 Nagle Ave, Rm 201
Fridays, December 1, 8 & 15, 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Festival of Lights: A Hanukkah Celebration at the Y of Washington Heights & Inwood
A community Hanukkah celebration with candle and menorah making, holiday treats, stories, and a community candle-lighting and sing-along. RSVP requested.
YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, 54 Nagle Ave, Rm 201
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 5 p.m.
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Queens
Tot Shabbat
A Shabbat morning experience for families with young children, including songs, stories, games, puppets, and age-appropriate prayers.
Astoria Center of Israel, 27-35 Crescent St
Saturdays, December 2 & 16, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Junior Congregation
Shabbat morning experience for elementary school-aged children with prayers, songs, and other activities. At the conclusion of the service, children join their parents in the main sanctuary.
Astoria Center of Israel, 27-35 Crescent St
Saturdays, December 9 & 27, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Hanukkah Party
Community Hanukkah party with dreidel games, crafts, face painting, holiday music, singing, dancing, holiday-themed treats, and candle lighting.
Astoria Center of Israel, 27-35 Crescent St
Sunday, December 17, 3 – 5 p.m.
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Staten Island
Sadie’s Almost Marvelous Menorah
Stories, menorah-making, and snacks. RSVP requested.
Arden Heights Jewish Center, 1766 Arthur Kill Rd
Sunday, December 10, 10:45 a.m. – Noon
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Westchester
Cantor Earl Rogers Tribute Sabbath
A brief Shabbat service followed by a musical program of Jewish composers Kreisler, Mendelssohn, and Gershwin performed by a New York Philharmonic violinist and pianist. Free and open to all.
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester, 2125 Westchester Ave East, Rye
Friday, December 1, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Gan Shabbat Services
An interactive introduction to Shabbat for preschoolers and their families, with songs, stories, and prayers followed by kid-friendly refreshments.
Bet Torah Nursery School, 60 Smith Ave, Mt. Kisco
Saturday, December 2, 10:30 a.m. – Noon
PJ Library Storytime and Sing Along
Stories, music, and movement for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their grown-ups. RSVP requested. Free.
Westchester Jewish Center, Rockland and Palmer Ave, Mamaroneck
Sunday, December 3, 11 – 11:45 a.m.
Hanukkah Lights Friday Night Live
Celebrate Shabbat and Hanukkah with live music, games, and activities, followed by a free dairy dinner. RSVP requested. All ages. Free.
JCC Harrison, 130 Union Ave, Harrison
Friday, December 8, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Community Wide Hanukkah Celebration
Fun for the whole family with games and entertainment, stories, music and movement, candle making, edible dreidels, and more. RSVP requested.
Westchester Jewish Center, Rockland and Palmer Ave, Mamaroneck
Sunday, December 10, 4 – 6 p.m.
Home Hanukkah Celebration for Young Families
Get ready for Hanukkah along with other families with young children with a holiday craft, snack, and story. Sponsored by Pleasantville Community Synagogue. RSVP required.
Private home – Address given upon RSVP, Pleasantville
Sunday, December 10, 9:15 – 10:45 a.m.
Community Hanukkah Party
Celebrate Hanukkah with the Jewish Community Center of Harrison with games, crafts, music, and food. RSVP requested. Free.
Purchase Community House, 3095 Purchase St, Purchase
Wednesday, December 13, 5:45- 7:45 p.m.
Family Shabbat Hanukkah Celebration
Festive dinner followed by a service including live music by the synagogue band and a sing-along. Bring your own menorah. RSVP required.
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester, 2125 Westchester Ave East, Rye
Friday, December 15, 6:30 p.m.
Family Hanukkah Dinner
Join other families for a Hanukkah dinner with games, candles, latkes, and fun. RSVP required. Free.
Congregation B’nai Yisrael, 2 Banksville Rd, Armonk
Friday, December 15, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Bim Bam Shabbat
Get ready for Shabbat with singing, stories, and challah led by the staff of Ramah Day Camp in Nyack. For toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups. RSVP on Facebook. Free.
Penny Lick Ice Cream, 580 Warburton Ave, Hastings-On-Hudson
Friday, December 15, 1 – 2 p.m.
Hanukkah Palooza
Celebrate Hanukkah with games, gelt, dreidels, and latkes. RSVP requested. Fun for all ages. Free.
JCC Harrison, 130 Union Ave, Harrison
Sunday, December 17, 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Josh Nelson in Concert
Hanukkah concert with Josh Nelson. Free and open to all.
Temple Israel of Northern Westchester, 31 Glengary Rd, Croton-on-Hudson
Sunday, December 17, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Family Hanukkah Party at Scarsdale Synagogue
Hanukkah makerspace, tzedakah projects, holiday-themed games, edible crafts, stories, sing-along, and allergy-friendly holiday treats. RSVP requested. Free.
Scarsdale Synagogue, 2 Ogden Rd, Scarsdale
Sunday, December 17, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Rockland County
Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas
A fun afternoon of Hanukkah activities and a reading of the new children’s book, Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas. The first 10 families get a free book signed by the author. Free.
Mahopac Public Library, 668 Route 6, Mahopac
Sunday, December 10, 2 p.m.
