Westchester County has some of the best Halloween events in the area. Here is our list of upcoming Halloween happenings to fill your fall with spooky fun!

Note that some events require advance reservations. Check direct event links in the event of inclement weather to see if they are cancelled. For up-to-date events, please check out our Community Calendar. You can also add events as well.

​Wishing you and your family a safe and fun fall season!

Halloween Events at the New York Botanical Garden
Sat Sep 22nd - Wed Oct 31st 
Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor
Fri Sep 28th 6:30pm - Sat Nov 24th 10:00pm
Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S. Riverside Ave, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

Lyndhurst Mansion Tours With A Halloween Twist
Mon Oct 1st - Wed 31st 
Lyndhurst, 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY

Boo at the Zoo
October Weekends - Sat Sep 29th - Sun Oct 28th 
Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY

The Haunt at Rocky Ledge
Friday-Sunday weekends in October- Fri Oct 5th - Sun 28th 
1402 Old Orchard Street, North White Plains, NY

Irving's Legend
Fri Oct 5th 11:30am - Wed 31st 10:00pm
The Old Dutch Church, 381, North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

The Unsilent Picture
Fri Oct 5th 6:00pm - Wed 31st 10:00pm
Philipsburg Manor, 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Horseman’s Hollow
Fri Oct 5th 6:00pm - Wed 31st 10:00pm
Philipsburg Manor, 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Lasdon Park Halloween Fall Festival Train Show​
Weekends in October, Sat Oct 6th - Sun 28th
Lasdon Park, 2610 Amawalk Rd, Katonah, NY

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours
Sun Oct 7th - Sun Nov 25th 
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, 540 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Scared by the Sound At Playland
Fridays-Sundays Oct 12th - Sun 28th 
Playland, Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

Home of the ‘Legend'
Sat Oct 6th 10:00am - Sun 28th 3:30pm
Washington Irving's Sunnyside, 3 W Sunnyside Ln, Irvington, NY

Beyond the Legend: Irving’s Ghost Stories
Thu Oct 18th 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Washington Irving Chapel at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, 540 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Jay Ghoul’s House of Curiosities
Fri Oct 19th - Wed 31st 
Lyndhurst, 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY

Halloween SPOOKTACULAR 2018
Sat Oct 20th 10:00am - 2:30pm
​Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
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Harvest Fest On The Hill
Sat Oct 20th 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Ridge Hill, Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Halloween Events at Stew Leonard's
Wed Oct 24th - Sun 28th 
Stew Leonard's, 1 Stew Leonard Dr, Yonkers, NY

New Rochelle BID FAMILY DAYS: Costume Parade, followed by Pumpkin-Painting on Library
Sat Oct 27th 9:45am - 11:00am
New Street, New Rochelle, NY 

Halloween Hike to Haunted Hollow
Sat Oct 27th 10:00am - 11:30am
Croton Point Park Nature Center, Croton Point Ave, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

Marshlands Halloween Spooktacular
Sat Oct 27th 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Marshlands Conservancy, Route 1, Rye, NY

Slithering Serpents
Sat Oct 27th 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Trailside Nature Museum, Routes 35 and 121, Cross River, NY

Downtown White Plains Zombie Walk
Sat Oct 27th 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Galleria Mall, 100 Main St, White Plains, NY

Howl-o-ween Party
Sat Oct 27th 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Lenoir Preserve, 19 Dudley St, Hastings-On-Hudson, NY

Halloween Boo Bash
Sat Oct 27th 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Cranberry Lake Preserve, 1609 Old Orchard Street, North White Plains, NY

Tarrytown Halloween Parade
Sat Oct 27th 5:30pm
Main Street, Main St, Tarrytown, NY

Nature at Night
Sat Oct 27th 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

Frightfully Fun Festival & Parade in White Plains
Sun Oct 28th 12:00pm - Mon 29th 4:00pm
Main Street, Main St, White Plains, NY

​Spooky Tales
Tue Oct 30th 3:30pm
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY

By Nidhi Sharma, PT, DPT, OCS
Sponsored Post
​

The time after delivery is known as the postpartum period and this is one of the most important phases in a woman’s life. As the body tries to return to pre-pregnancy state, the physical influences at this time can affect the long-term health of the mother. 

After undergoing radical changes for much of 9 months and an exhausting delivery process, moms are often overwhelmed by the responsibilities of childcare. Their body, specifically the pelvis never gets a chance to heal and recover. 
​
Here are the 4 most common physical complaints of post-partum period. 

1. Urinary Incontinence: The “leaky” bladder is not just a problem during pregnancy, it persists in over 80% of women after giving birth! Often, the leaking happens with coughing, sneezing, running, etc. but can happen with almost any activity of daily life. The research shows that leaking does not go away by itself and should be addressed soon after delivery. 
2. Diastasis Recti: In simple terms, it is separation of the superficial layer of abdominal muscles due to excessive intra-abdominal pressure. Women usually notice a protruding belly or a “pouch/bulge” which is most evidentright after childbirth. Sometimes, the mothers notice that they still look “pregnant” after having the baby. The usual exercises for abdominals like crunches and planks can often hurt rather than help the problem. 
3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Sometimes due to weakness of muscles and ligaments, the organs like bladder, uterus and bowel can droop down outside the vaginal opening. Again, pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened to help support these organs back into their place. 

4. Lower Back Pain: Lower back pain is extremely common in new mothers and often multifactorial. All of the conditions explained above can compromise core stability and contribute to lower back pain. In addition to that, demands of childcare like frequent lifting, carrying, and breastfeeding, etc.can put repetitive stress on joints in the spine and pelvis.

What can you do? 
Postpartum Rehabilitation focuses on the health of new mothers by customizing the program to the unique physiological changes of pregnancy and demands of childcare. The program focuses on improving posture and alignment, strengthening trunk and pelvic floor muscles, and training in proper breastfeeding/childcare positions. It is important to know that all of the above conditions are closely related to each other and should be addressed as a unit. Often the lower back pain is caused by underlying pelvic floor weakness and won’t improve until incontinence is addressed. A good program looks at abdominal, lower back, and pelvic floor muscles individually as well as a coordinated system. 
​
If you are pregnant or recently had a baby, give your body some much-needed TLC. See a Women’s Health Physical Therapist at Func Physio Physical Therapy and get back to things you love. Sooner the better!

Func Physio Physical Therapy
111 Brooke Street, 3rdFloor 
Scarsdale , NY 
Contact : 347 497 0500
www.funcphysio.com

​Here is a list of upcoming local carnivals and festivals to make the most of the beautiful autumn weather. Enjoy rides, local food, games, live music and more!

As always, we regularly update our Community Calendar with the latest events. You can also visit our Local Business Directory to find play spaces, music classes, art classes, home repair and more. If you need help finding something you can submit a request directly on our website for free. Please sign up for our e-mail list to get the inside scoop on what's happening and more in Westchester.

Chappaqua Children's Book Festival
Saturday, September 29th 
Bell Middle School, 50 Senter St, Chappaqua, NY
The 2018 Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival is the largest annual children’s book festival in the tri-state region. The event is filled with activities, famous authors, books for purchase and much more. 

Eastchester Columbus Day Celebration Carnival & Parade
Friday, October 5th - Monday, October 8th  
Lake Isle Country Club, 660 White Plains Rd, Eastchester, NY
Multi-day festival featuring rides and games, as well as, cuisine and crafts from local restaurants and businesses that celebrate everything local, and most of all, everything Italian! Special events include a DJ Dance Party, Homemade Meatball Contest, Live Music and Homemade Wine Contest. The Eastchester Columbus Day Parade is Sunday, October 8th.

Stone Barns HarvestFest
Saturday, October 6th
630 Bedford Rd, Tarrytown, NY
Typically sold out far in advance, celebrate the best of the farm in fall. Enjoy hayrides, farm demonstrations, activities, crafts, live music, and seasonal fare and more.

Dobbs Ferry Festa
Saturday, October 6th
Cedar St & Main St., Dobbs Fery, NY
Ferry Festa is Dobbs Ferry’s largest community event, an annual street fair with festivities, crafts, entertainment, music, and vendors. Fun for all ages.

Pumpkin Picking Weekend at Muscoot Farm
Saturday, October 6th - Monday, October 9th
51 NY-100, Katonah, NY
​Lots of festive activities to do on the farm each day including pumpkins for sale, hayrides, live music, games and an art show. Check the schedule for other special activities like Glitter a Pumpkin Cider.

Free Family Fun Day at Tarrytown Music Hall
Sunday, October 7th
13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY
A fun-filled day of dance, circus arts, and theater arts, with music, fall-themed arts and crafts, healthy snacks, and many other fun surprises! This event is FREE and open to the public. No tickets required.

Yorktown Festival & Street Fair
Sunday, October 7th
Commerce St & Veterans Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY
A fun filled day of food, music, activities for kids. Includes over 250 vendors, children's rides, music  & dance performances, food, classic cars and more.

21st Annual Sleepy Hollow Street Fair
Saturday Oct 14th
Beekman Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY
The fair features local food, live music, dance performances throughout the day, kids carnival and more.

by Laurie Wolk

Confident … Brave … Resilient … These are just a few of the buzz words that we have been hearing lately as it relates to “raising girls.” Inspiring campaigns online, in person and at our nations capital promoting the strong female are drawing huge attendance and attention. Household brands, toy companies and acadamia are shifting their focus and encouraging girls to get engaged in science, math and whatever it is that excites them.
 
Our girls are seeing, hearing and believing that they do not need to settle for anything less than half of the American pie. That is exciting! At times this year I have felt that there is magic in the air and indeed there is. However, all I have to do is walk into one of my girls leadership workshops and speak with my students (in grades 4th-8th) to be reminded of the immense pressure our girls feel to be “perfect”, “get along” and just “be nice.” 
 
We parents (and society) give our girls mixed messages and we need to pay close attention to our actions and our words . We tell them to be leaders, but we call them out for being “bossy.” We tell them that they are capable and strong, but then we jump in and solve their problems for them. We encourage them to be assertive, but then we inundate them with pleas to be nice and respectful.  We tell them to take risks, make mistakes but then we mitigate their failures so they don't feel the hurt.
 
Truth be told, our girls don’t have the utensils they need to eat, let alone share that half of the American pie that they are being promised.  
 
We parents need to help our girls not rely on the external world to offer them pats on the back and validation. Sure good grades in school or being on an elite sports team offer a confidence boost during those early years, however, research shows that when our girls keep their head down and focus only on academic and physical achievement and don't speak up, it is not enough to sustain a feeling of true confidence in one's whole self.  Having report cards that are covered with A’s alone is not doing our girls justice. In fact, along with those A’s we want to be focusing on a whole lot of C’s, too: Communication, collaboration, contribution, character, creativity 
 
That feeling of confidence that we all so desperately want for our girls can only be born from the inside and hard earned. No parental life lesson, academic achievement, empowerment rally or brilliant ad campaign can give it to her. And that starts with her learning to speak up and ask for what she wants and/or needs.  It takes courage, but it’s a skill they (and even we adults) can learn.
 
So how do we raise confident girls in 2018 you ask? 
 
We teach our girls to use their voice and be brave!  
 
Being able to share freely how you feel in exchange for the opportunity to make change in your world (or a situation) is freedom.  Freedom is the ability to share  your truth and knowing that you will be okay whatever the outcome may be from having done so. Intimacy comes when you share how you feel. That is how relationships get stronger. And relationships are the cornerstone of happiness. 
 
Just like an iceberg where only 10% of the whole mass can be seen above the surface, most people hide their true emotions below the surface. Only if we dig below the surface, and let those feelings come above, can others actually know and understand how we are feeling.   Sharing how you feel brings the truth to the surface. Thus if you share how you feel with someone, and it is not received as you would have liked, you will find that you still feel relief. 
 
When feelings are kept inside and not voiced, that is when we see unhealthy and problematic behaviors.. Those “hurt” feelings often get buried and later in life, whether in work or in relationships, we tend to see that girls won't speak up yet again, having carried with them this default way of being in the world. This can come at tremendous personal cost to their careers, marriages and friendships.
 
So for those who have a girl they adore in their lives, start broadening the emotional vocabulary that you use around them. Do good role modeling and tell stories from your day labeling the emotions (disappointed, anxious, embarrassed) that went along with the events that happened. You can even play the game Rose and Thorn. Sharing with each other a “Rose” (something good) that happened and a “Thorn” something that didn’t go so well.  Just be sure to include super descriptive words that the audience can understand right away how you were feeling. No generalizations like happy or angry.   
 
And while you are at it, let’s start lowering the “perfection" wall that you have built up around you.  The one that you thought you needed in order to show your girl(s) you are a wise and capable mentor. Let her see over the top and that you make mistakes too and while your at it, apologize to her when you in fact mishandle something. Have an open and honest conversation about the value i, asking for help, making mistakes and demonstrating that we can all choose to act differently no matter what age and how entrenched our habits maybe, once we know to act differently.
 
 
About the Author: 
Laurie Wolk is an Author, Educator & Motivational Speaker focusing on parenting adolescents and social media. A “go to” girl since childhood and a cheerleader at heart, her passion is helping parents and young girls learn how to communicate and connect with themselves, each other and the outside world.

She works directly with companies, schools, organizations and individuals on building confidence, leadership and digital citizenship skills. Her goal: teaching girls how to put down their digital devices and develop “in real life” communication and relationship skills. 

A graduate of Emory University, Laurie received her BA in Psychology and is the Author of the book Girls Just Want to Have Likes: How to Raise Confident Girls in the Face of Social Media Madness due in bookstores nationwide this August. She is the Editor of The Spark Report, a weekly report that helps parents of tweens/teens spark meaningful conversations with their children. Laurie received advanced certification at the Martha Beck and Girls Leadership Institutes and is on the Board of the Westchester Children’s Museum and at Girls Leadership.
​
 An engaged and hands-on mother of three + dog, Laurie understands adolescents and connects with them both as a guide and a friend, teaching them important social and emotional skills that will serve them for a lifetime. She has been called a “modern mentor” by clients and forms natural connections early on with both parent and child.

Preparing your child for a successful future starts early. Start with music.

Sponsored Post

Did you know studying music can actually make your child smarter? Learning to play an instrument or sing improves overall academic performance, strengthens motor skills and cognition, as well as develops self-motivation, self-confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills. Having a strong foundation in music can positively impact the trajectory of your child’s life. Start early. Start with music!

Music Conservatory of Westchester, voted Best of Westchester’s ‘Best Music School’ for two consecutive years (2017 and 2018), provides the quality music instruction your child needs to jump-start their journey to future success. Starting with its First Notes curriculum for babies and toddlers, and progressing with its Suzuki program and Guitar program for young musicians, opportunities for your child’s best possible start are at the Music Conservatory. 

This fall, prospective students and their families are invited to attend and participate in the Conservatory’s Open Houses introducing its updated roster of classes in September!

“Music is all around us, virtually everywhere we go, yet most people listen to music without understanding what they are actually hearing,” Conservatory Dean of Students and Faculty Dr. Douglas Bish explains. “Children who develop a strong sense of musical concepts from their earliest years have a better chance of growing up with confidence, self-motivation, creativity, and other essential skills.”

The Music Conservatory of Westchester prepares children as young as 3 months old for their future through its First Notes sequence, with three levels of classes to begin your child’s musical understanding: Bravo Babies (3 – 18 months), Toddler Tunes (1 ½ - 2 ½ years), and Preschool Prodigies (3 – 4 years). Children explore musical sounds and rhythms, and learn songs from around the world, attending classes with a parent or caregiver.
 
The Conservatory’s Suzuki programoffers instruction in violin, cello or piano for students ages 4 and up, focusing on the philosophy that “Every Child Can” learn to play an instrument. The Suzuki music training process is based on an equal triangle of support and cooperation between the student, teacher, and parents.Our highly qualified Suzuki teachers train young musicians to become skilled instrumentalists, performers and ensemble players, while developing their motor skills and focusing ability. Our new Guitar Program offers a progressive curriculum on this popular instrument, preparing young students ages 4 and up to specialize in their favorite style of music, whether rock, jazz or classical, when they get to middle school.

No other activity activates both sides of the brain like playing a musical instrument. Giving your child the gift of music at early stages in their brain development provides a positive, creative outlet for your child to grow with. 

As part of our inclusive musical community, the Conservatory provides numerous performance opportunities throughout the year for students of all ages. With more than 80 expertly qualified faculty of professional musicians with exceptional academic and performance credentials in their specialized instruments, the Music Conservatory of Westchester truly offers your child the best possible start!

Explore music classes that appeal to student of all ages, toddlers, children, teens, and adults – open for registration now!
 
New Students Register for FREE this Fall! 
Sign up for private lessons or group classes at the Music Conservatory of Westchester using code: FALL18 and we’ll waive your registration fee. ($60 value for private lesson registration & $30 value for group class registration) Enroll now and save!*
​
Join us at Open Houses at our 216 Central Avenue location in White Plains on:

• Tuesday, September 4 (6:00 – 7:30 PM)
• Saturday, September 15 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

• Monday, September 17 (5:00 – 7:00 PM)
  
  

See us on Saturday, September 15 and September 22 at 9:30 AM for our Suzuki Open Houses!

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
www.musicconservatory.org
* Expires Sept. 30th, 2018. Offer only eligible for new students, one time use. Subject to class availability. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Not eligible for Music Therapy classes.

Sponsored Post

Turmeric is a ginger-colored spice that’s been a part of Middle Eastern and East Asian cooking for centuries. The warm and flavorful bitter taste is frequently used in curry dishes. Turmeric however is also widely known for its health benefits and has garnered the attention of nutritionists and physicians worldwide. Curcumin, turmeric’s most active and healing compound, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which has contributing factors in combating osteoarthritis, heart disease and digestive issues. 
​
Turmeric is proven to treat arthritis as it helps reduce joint inflammation according to a recent study. A study by the Nirmala Medical Center provided evidence that curcumin is as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs at reducing swelling and tenderness of joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. 
​
Another amazing fact about Turmeric is that it can be used to treat wounds, cuts and rashes. Life Sciences concluded that topical application of curcumin has a great therapeutic effect on skin wounds and also concluded that it accelerates wound healing. Add to this its heart health benefits and improved digestion and you can be on your way to better health with just a spoonful of turmeric a day.
 
What is the best way to incorporate this super spice into your diet? Simply sprinkle it on your favorite foods along with a little black pepper to aid with absorption. You can reap these health benefits with a teaspoon of turmeric on salads, soups, and dressings. You can even rub it on your favorite steak before grilling! 
​
Turmeric owns the reputation of a powerful anti-inflammatory that can reduce arterial plaque buildup, accelerate wound healing and relieve joint pain. That’s a good reason to spice things up a little when cooking at home! As always, check with your St. John’s Riverside physician before making any changes to your diet and health plan!

It's family time! Camp is over and school doesn't start until after Labor Day. For some parents, this time feels like a gift, a rare opportunity to spend with their children in any way they wish. For others, the next few weeks are a slow countdown to the first day of school. Regardless of your situation, everyone can benefit by trying something new, heading back to a favorite spot, reconnecting with school pals or just soaking up some sun.  

Here are 60 End Of Summer Ideas to keep your kids busy in Westchester or nearby-- recommended by moms in our community. We've got ideas for staycations, daycations and vacations! On the list we have carnivals, festivals, nature centers, zoos, play spaces, amusement parks, playgrounds, farmers markets, museums, ice cream, beaches, pools, spray parks, story times, road trips and more!

1. Dress in your finest Renaissance attire and head to the New York Renaissance Faire. Enter the world of 16th Century England and enjoy themed games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music and dance. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday, August 4th thru September 30th.

2. Last call for all the pirates out there! Pirate Quest runs till August 25th. Pint-sized pirates can set their sails to Philipsburg Manor.

3. Starting August 21st and running through August, 26th, experience the Dutchess County Fair Rhinebeck, NY. It is the second largest county fair in New York State and will have rides, food, animals, crafts and much more.

4. Head to the Putnam County Wine & Food Fest, on August 25th-26th. There will be arts and crafts, exhibits, and two full days of live entertainment – even for kids.

5. Philipsburgh Manor will be holding their annual CORNucopia corn festival on Labor Day weekend. Enjoy corn treats, crafts, games including corn shucking races, cooking, English country dancing, live music and more. Runs September 1st through 3rd. 

6. Cool off with a delicious and refreshing ice cream, frozen yogurt or Italian ices.   Check out these suggestions from moms in our community.
​
7. Pick your own fruit. Our moms suggest Fishkill Farms in Hopewell Junction, Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh or Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights.

​8. Visit a Farmer's Market!  More details on our Community Calendar.

9. Head to Rye Playland to swim in the pool or beach (Oakland Beach), enjoy the rides or take a walk on the boardwalk. Don't miss the fireworks every Friday night!

10. Spend the day at a water park. Check out SplashDown Beach in Fishkill. Little ones will love Shipwreck Lagoon and the Lazy River.

11. For a free water and play adventure go to Pierson Park in Tarrytown. It has beautiful river views, a spray park and playground. Finish the excursion with coffee or ice cream at Lighthouse Ice Cream and Coffee.

12. Have fun in the sun at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck. This local favorite is a beach, playground and spray park. 

13. If you have a Westchester County Parks Pass you can have a swim day at Willson’s Waves Park, Tibbetts Brook Park or Saxon Woods Park. Check out details in our Summer Bucket List.

14. Enjoy river views, a spray park and playground with train structures at Louis Engel Waterfront Park in Ossining.

15. Swim, fish, boat, play and picnic at Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Yorktown Heights.

16. Beach it in Westchester at Canopus Lake in Carmel, Croton Point Beach in Croton-on-Hudson, Glen Island Beach in  New Rochelle.

17. Spend a day at Bear Mountain State Park in Rockland County. Take a ride on the carousel, enjoy a nature walk, visit the free zoo, take a ride on a paddle boat or canoe, swim in the pool, picnic and enjoy some delicious ice cream. 

18. Also in Rockland County, enjoy a beautiful day swimming and hiking at Rockland Lake State Park.

19. Take a swim, build sandcastles and enjoy the view at Lake Welch in Harriman State Park.

20. Head to Connecticut for a beach day. Greenwich Point- Tod’s Point is beautiful and close. Make  sure you purchase an entry pass on a weekday in advance. 

21. Enjoy big ocean waves and soft sand at the beaches in Long Island. Walk the boardwalk, play in the sand, swim or have fun on the playground at Long Beach. Jones Beach in Wantagh is another great option. If you have very small children you can go to Zack's Bay located at Field 5 where the water is calm. Robert Moses State Park is a favorite among our moms. If you are feeling adventurous you can take a ferry ride out to Fire Island for a laid back beach day.  

22. Take a day trip to Asbury Park, NJ. Head to the beach for sun and sand, walk the boardwalk, cool off at the Asbury Splash Park, take a ride on a pedal boat on Wesley Lake or play miniature golf at Asbury Eighteen.

23. Play a round of mini golf at Red Rooster Drive-In in Brewster, Saxon Woods Park in White Plains or Rye Playland.

24. Head to a park or playground. Our moms like Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, Sagamore Playground in Bronxville, Croton Gorge Park in Cortlandt, ​Gedney Park in Chappaqua, Law Memorial Park in Briarcliff, Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill and Bruce Park Playground in Greenwich, CT.

25. Take part in RiverRiders free community paddling at JFK Marina and Park in northern Yonkers.

26. For your cinematic pleasure, head to Movies on the Sand - "Up" at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck on August 17th.

27. Celebrate National Honeybee Day at Honeybee Open Hive on August 19th at the Stamford Nature Center. Discover the buzz through hive demos (weather permitting) and a honey bee scavenger hunt in our Farm Market. 

28. Celebrate the Jewish culture at the Jewish Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam Plaza on August 19th.

29. For a full day animal adventure head to the Bronx Zoo. Check out Nature Trek a Total Experience exhibit where kids can get a giraffe's-eye view as they explore bridges, walkways, and tunnels. They can also get their hands dirty in the nature play zone. Or try the Treetop Adventure, where you can climb, swing, and slide through obstacle courses in the trees.

30. Take your child for a hike at Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining. Enjoy a beautiful walk around the lake, look at the suspension bridge, watch the birds and see some live and taxidermy animals at the visitor center. 

31. Our moms love Muscoot Farm in Katonah! It's totally free and there are so many farm animals to see.

32. Head to a nature center to meet the animals and enjoy outdoor play. Our moms recommend Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale, Rye Nature Center in Rye, Sheldrake Nature Center in Larchmont and Stamford Museum & Nature Center. Check their websites for upcoming workshops and events.

33. Visit Westmoreland Sanctuary in Mount Kisco, a nature museum and wildlife preserve with hiking trails. 

34. Visit the animals, have a bite to eat and relax in the beautiful farmland at Stone Barns in Pocanito Hills. Admission is free. On weekends there are a variety of seasonal, hands-on activities and drop-in tours but you need to purchase tickets in advance. Heads up, get your tickets now for Harvest Fest October 7th, which is typically sold out far in advance.

35. Visit beautiful Untermeyer Gardens in Yonkers.

​36. Take your children to the Botanical Gardens. In August you can drop-in for nature exploration or gardening activities.

37. Jump or Bounce! Our moms suggest Bounce U in Elmsford, Rockin Jump in Yonkers or Mount Kisco, Sky Zone in New Rochelle or Bounce! in Valley Cottage. Check bounce times and age restrictions and book in advance. 

38. Drop in and play! Our moms love the Play Place in Elmsford, Billy Beez at the Palisades Mall in West Nyack and Kids U in Port Chester and Pleasantville. 
​
39. Get building at Legoland in Yonkers! Experience rides, a movie, play structure and more. Purchase tickets in advance.

40. Try indoor skydiving at iFly Westchester.

41. Moms of preschoolers: take a free trial class at a play gym, art studio or music school. Schedule in advance. You can view a list of places to consider in our directory, select the category you like.

42. Go to the movies. Have a meal served to your seat at Alamo Drafthouse in Yonkers or iPic in Dobbs Ferry.

43. Head to your local library to play, read books or enjoy an event. Check your library's website for dates and times.

44. Take your little one to story time at Barnes and Noble White Plains or Yonkers, the Voracious Reader in Larchmont, Scattered Books in Chappaqua or Pottery Barn Kids in White Plains.

45. Design your own pottery or ceramics. Our moms suggest Creative Corner or Plaster Palace Pottery in Larchmont, Fun Craft in Scarsdale, A Maze In Pottery in Briarcliff or Made in Mamaroneck.

46. Do some back to school shopping. Make a day trip to Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets in Central Valley, NY or stay local at the City Center, Cross County, Ridge Hill or the Westchester. Support local by shopping at some of Westchester's children's boutiques. Try Denny's in Scarsdale, Epstein's in Tuckahoe, & James in Katonah, Lester's in Rye Brook and Wyatt Lily in Scarsdale. Know of any others you recommend?

47. Play, imagine and explore at the Westchester Children's Museum. Now air conditioned! Check out these highlights.

48. Venture up to Norwalk, CT to the Stepping Stones Museum for Children. Bonus, the Devon's Place playground nextdoor is perfect to enjoy before or after your visit. You can even cool off in a small splash pad there.

49. Explore sea life at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk. While the exhibits will keep your kids busy, there is also a play space upstairs for babies and toddlers as well as an IMAX Theatre. 

50. The New York Hall of Science in Queens is a fantastic way to spend the day and is closer than you think. There is a play room for young children, hundreds of exhibits, demonstrations and activities, a 3D theatre, a mini golf course and more. Check their website to sign up for events.

51. The Children's Museum of Manhattan is another great place for little hands to learn and explore.

52. Fill an entire day at the Long Island Children's Museum. It is much larger than other children's museums in the area and is sure to entertain kids of all ages.

53. See the stars at the Hudson River Museum planetarium on Saturdays and Sundays. While you are there, check out the exhibits, learn about the Hudson River, play in the Early Explorers play area or take part in an art or science project. ​

54. Meet Elmo, Cookie Monster and all your favorite characters at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA. Have lunch with the characters, watch a parade, go on the rides, walk down Sesame Street and get wet in the water park!

55. Enjoy rides, water fun and characters at the Land of Make Believe in Hope ,NJ.

56. Take a trip to Lancaster, PA. Our moms suggest going to Dutch Wonderland, Kitchen Kettle Village, Miller's Smorgasbord, the Turkey Hill Experience and taking a pretzel factory tour.

57. Meet Thomas the Train at Stratsburg Rail Road August 27th through September 4th in Ronks, PA.

58. Indulge in chocolate and rides at Hershey Park in Hershey, PA.

59. Take a trip to Mystic, CT. Our moms suggest visiting The Dinosaur Place, Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport and the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Ride.   

60. Encounter exotic and wild animals at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax, PA.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Sponsored Post

If the answer is yes, you are not alone. The reported cases of sleep deprivation or insomnia are growing to epic proportions nationwide. More than 60 million Americans suffer from poor sleep quality, and more than 40 million meet the diagnostic criteria for sleep disorders. Americans are sleeping less and consequently are putting their health at risk. 

Patients who toss and turn all night will initially complain of lack of energy, irritability, and loss of appetite. Left untreated, inadequate sleep carries with it both short- and long-term consequences including obesity, diabetes, anxiety, stroke or cardiac arrest. 

Why are we losing so much sleep? Insomnia could be caused by a medical problem, a side-effect of medicine, psychiatric illness, or lifestyle. Everything from what we eat what we drink, how often we are on “screen time” to our hectic work schedules can contribute to how well or how poorly we sleep. 

If you believe you are suffering from a sleep disorder, insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome, there are things you can do about it. 

“We now have comprehensive Sleep Centers in both Andrus and Dobbs Ferry” says Rajendra Rampersaud, MD, Pulmonologist.

To meet the growing incidence of sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, St. John’s Riverside Hospital now has Sleep Diagnostic Centers available at both Dobbs Ferry and Andrus Pavilions. Both locations offer a convenient, quiet setting that was created to help restore the connection between a well-rested body and a healthy body. 

Having sleep centers in both our pavilions is another way we strive to help patients in their hometowns. St. John’s Riverside Hospital is helping people sleep better and feel better, one wink at a time. For more information or to schedule a consultation with a sleep physician call (914) 964-4337.

​To schedule a sleep study at the Sleep Diagnostic Center call (914) 559-1010.

Carnival season is in full swing and there is a lot for Westchester County families to do this summer just beyond Westchester County! Music, rides, animals, fireworks, culture and more can be enjoyed at neighboring county fairs and festivals. Plan ahead because some of these events are about an hour or more away.  Don't forget to check the weather as dates are subject to change. Enjoy!

For a full listing of upcoming events, or to add one of your own, visit our free  Community Calendar.

Hudson Valley Balloon Festival
Fri July 6th - Sun 8th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck, NY

Orange County Fair
Thu Jul 12th - Sat 21st
Orange County Fairgrounds, 239 Wisner Avenue Middletown, NY

Putnam County Fair
Fri Jul 27th - Sun 29th
Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Rd, Carmel, NY

New York Renaissance Faire
Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday, August 4th thru September 30th 
600 NY-17A, Tuxedo Park, NY

Dutchess County Fair
Tue Aug 21st - Sun 26th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck, NY

Sponsored Post

As a pioneer in single incision hernia surgeries and co-founder of the only Minimally Invasive Center in Westchester, Dr. Har Chi Lau has performed more minimally invasive hernias than any other surgeon in Westchester County. We are proud that he practices at St. John’s Riverside Hospital. Dr. Har Chi Lau opened the first Hernia Center in Westchester just over two years ago now and people have come as far as California to be treated there. 
​
A Board-Certified Surgeon with expertise in Minimally Invasive (MI) surgery, Dr. Lau also instructs laparoscopic surgery methods to other doctors and frequently presents on the subject nationwide. In addition, he has impressed and won the trust of a tough crowd of his colleagues who personally request Dr. Lau for their surgeries. With over 4500 surgeries already performed, it’s apparent that Dr. Lau is the first choice for patients and doctors alike. 

“Dr. Lau and his team were my first choice for my hernia operation. These guys have the expertise as well as the communication skills and personality that assured me I would be back to my old self again. They were right and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to get back to work.” - Tony Maddalo, MD Orthopedic Sports Physician for the New York Rangers.

Recent developments have changed the playing field when it comes to medical procedures, and St. John’s Riverside Hospital’s Hernia Center is on the frontline with the latest technology including the da Vinci robot and expertise to offer a new quality-of-life to all patients. Minimally Invasive surgery is how we are keeping the Westchester Community Strong. If you think you or someone you know has a hernia, call (914) 464-4DOC.
 
“It’s a very patient-centered method to performing surgery, with proven benefits and far less complications.” - MI surgeon, Har Chi Lau, MD