Holiday season is here and there are tons of family friendly things to do. This weekend officially kicks things off with holiday tree lighting events throughout Westchester County. Check out one of many holiday shows or events like The Nutcracker, The Polar Express or a train show.
 
​​Check our list of things you don't want to miss! You can also visit our Community Calendar for a full listing of all events. Because sometimes the weather does not cooperate and things can change, it is always best to check the direct link to the actual event in our calendar to confirm the time before heading out.

Don't forget to look ahead to make sure you purchase tickets in advance for upcoming holiday events and popular shows that sell out. Check out our Holiday Fun Guide for all the highlights.  

Lastly, if you have not already joined our e-mail list, join now for free! 

Yonkers Tree Lighting
Schedule: Thursday, December 1st 4pm
Location: Getty Square, Yonkers, NY

​New Rochelle Holiday Lighting Ceremony & Hot Chocolate
Schedule: Thursday, December 1st 5:30pm
Location: Memorial Plaza, 6 Memorial Hwy, New Rochelle, NY
​
Bronxville Hometown Holiday- Tree Lighting, Parade & Santa's Workshop
Schedule: Tree Lighting is Friday, December 2nd 5-5:30pm, Santa's Workshop is Friday, December 2nd 5:30pm-7:30pm, Saturday, December 3rd 10am-2pm, Sunday, December 4th 12pm-2pm
Location: Lighting is Leonard Morange Square, Parkway Rd, Bronxville, NY and Santa's Workshop is 118 Kraft Ave, Bronxville, NY

Destination Hastings presents: HFNL Lights up the Night & Fourth Annual Village Crawl
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 6-10pm 
Location: James Harmon Community Center, 44 Main St, Hastings-On-Hudson, NY

Bedford Tree Lighting
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7pm
Location: Village Green, Bedford, NY

Rye Brook Winterfest Tree & Menorah Lighting
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 5pm
Location: Pine Ridge Park, Rye Brook, NY

Irvington Holiday Happening & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10am-8pm (tree lighting at 5pm)
Location: Main St, Irvington, NY​

Chappaqua Community Sing, Holiday Crafts, & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 3:30 - 6:30pm (tree lighting at 5pm)
Location: Horace Greeley House, 100 King St, Chappaqua, NY

Holiday Lighting of the 1883 Lighthouse at Sleepy Hollow
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 3:30pm
Location: Edge-On-Hudson, 199 Beekman Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Tarrytown 17th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting & TaSH Holiday Pop-Up Farmers Market
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5pm (Farmer's Market runs 3-6pm)
Location: Patriot's Park, Tarrytown, NY

Pound Ridge 15th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5pm
Location: Scott Corners, Westchester Ave, Pound Ridge, NY

Dobbs Ferry Holiday Tree Lighting and Pictures With Santa
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 4:30pm
Location: Main St & Cedar St, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Tuckahoe Winterfest & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5-8pm and Sunday, December 4th 12-5pm
Location: Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

Ardsley Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 6pm 
Location: Legion Park, 505 Ashford Ave, Ardsley, NY

Yorktown 5th Annual Holiday Lights Parade & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 6:30pm
Location: Jack DeVito Memorial Field, 1974 Commerce St, Yorktown Heights, NY

White Plains City Lights, Bright Holiday Nights - Tree Lighting
​Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 4pm
Location: Tibbits Park, N Broadway & Lake St, White Plains, NY

Village of Mamaroneck Tree Lighting & Social
​Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 4pm
Location: Beach Pavilion, Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY

Katonah Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Schedule: ​Sunday, December 4th 5:30pm
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 68 Bedford Rd, Katonah, NY

The Nutcracker - Ajkun Ballet Theatre Performance
Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7pm , Saturday, December 3rd  2pm & 7pm
Location: Isaac E. Young Middle School, 2nd Floor Dance Studio, 270 Centre Ave, New Rochelle, NY
​
Westchester All Stars Christmas For Veterans Concert
Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7:30pm
Location: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater,  1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY 

A Dickens of a Holiday at Wainwright House
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10am - 4pm
Location: Wainwright House, 260 Stuyvesant Avenue Rye, New York

BID Family Day: Make a Gift Fair
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10:30am
Location: New Rochelle Public Library, 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, NY

Click, Clack, Moo
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 11am, 1:30pm
Location: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck, NY

St. Nicholas Day
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 12pm
Location: Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Holiday Tea Musicales
Schedule: December 3rd-5th 1pm
Location: Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY

Tuckahoe Winterfest
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5-8pm and Sunday, December 4th 12-5pm
Location: Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

​Cirque-tacular: Snowkus Pocus
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd  8pm
Location: Academic Arts Theatre at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Rd, Valhalla, NY

Charlie Brown Christmas Performed Live
Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 11am, 1pm, 3pm
Location: The Manor Club, 1023 Esplanade, Pelham, NY

Cards and Cocoa and Coleman School of Dance presents the Nutcracker
Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 1-3:30pm
Location: The Voracious Reader, 1997 Palmer Ave, Larchmont, NY
​
The Nutcracker Performed by New York Theatre Ballet
Schedule: Sunday, December 4th  3pm and 6pm
Location: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY

Adventure to Santa
Summary: Ridge Hill's holiday adventure to see Santa with Po and Friends! Blast off on a rocket-powered cart ride to the North Pole, enjoy a private meet and greet with Santa and more. Reserve tickets in advance, space is limited. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Santa's Waiting- Photos With Santa
​Summary: Take your children to the Westchester for holiday photos with Santa. Make a reservation in advance at www.noerrsanta.com/simon.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Santa Photos & Visits
Summary: Visit Santa to share wishes and capture memories! Take your family photo with Santa (you can even bring your pets!) at Cross County Shopping Center. Reservations available, but not required.
Schedule: Friday, November 11th through Christmas Eve
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

North Kensico House Christmas Light Show
​Summary: View a home with over 1 0,000 lights on 144 channels synchronized to music.
​Schedule: November 27th - January 1st, 5:30pm – 11:00pm nightly
Location: 21 N Kensico Ave, White Plains, NY
​
Mr. Dickens Tells a Christmas Carol
Summary: Mr. Dickens Tells a Christmas Carol’ recreates Charles Dickens’ own performances of the classic tale that brings the travails of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim alive.
​Schedule: December 2nd - December 30th, specific afternoons and evenings
Location: Lyndhurst, 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY

The Polar Express Train Ride
Summary: Pajama-clad train passengers will relive the magic of the Polar Express story and see their favorite characters come to life as they are whisked away aboard The Polar Express (an actual train ride) on a magical round trip to the North Pole. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 18th through December 28th, Friday-Sunday and December 21st-23rd, 26th-28th, various times
Location: Catskill Mountain Railroad, Aaron Ct, Kingston, NY

The Polar Express IMAX Movie
Summary: “All aboard!” for a magical IMAX movie adventure to Santa’s North Pole headquarters as the holiday film “The Polar Express” is shown on a giant six-story screen. Purchase tickets in advance.
​Schedule: Friday, November 25th-December 18th on weekends and daily December 26th - January 2nd 5pm (The Polar Express Pajama Party is December 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th at 9am)
Location: The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N Water St, Norwalk, CT

Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Garden
Summary: Enchanting model trains zip through a display of 150 landmarks, each re-created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials—all under the twinkling glow. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 19th - January 16th 
Location: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY

Holiday Train Show at GNC
Summary: Train lovers of all ages will love the HO gauge model trains on display among replicas of area landmarks, courtesy of Yonkers Model Railroad Club. Purchase tickets in advance.
​Schedule: Saturday, November 26th, Sunday, 27th, Saturday, December 3rd, Sunday December 4th 10am - 4:30pm 
Location: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY

Holidays on the Hill Train Show
Summary: A festive train show, holiday plants and gifts and outdoor activities.
​Schedule: December 2nd-18th, Friday-Sunday, daytime and evenings
Location: Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, 2610 NY-35, Katonah, NY

Westchester's Winter Wonderland
Summary: A one-of-a-kind holiday experience featuring Santa and Friends, RangersTown Rink, the Hanneford Holiday Circus, great rides, fantastic local food and drinks, light show and more. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 25th - January 2nd, Thursday-Sunday evenings through December 11th and thendaily evenings (except December 24th and 25th)
Location: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY

A BILLION BRICKS 4: LEGO® Super Heroes in Gotham
Summary: Bring the whole family to the annual "A Billion Bricks" exhibition and be awed by five famous architectural landmarks made completely out of LEGO® bricks.
Schedule: November 19th - February 5th, Monday-Saturday 9 - 5pm, Sunday 11 - 5pmLocation: 
Location: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd, Stamford, CT

Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning
Summary: The Lakeshore Learning Store in Scarsdale offers a "Free Crafts for Kids."
Schedule: Every Saturday from 11am - 3pm
Location: Lakeshore Learning Store, 969 Central Park Ave, Scarsdale, NY 

Hudson River Museum
Summary: Visit the Early Explorers Space, a safe space for children under 5 to explore, play, and create with their families. The room hosts a large-scale dollhouse, blocks, puppet theater, and books. Children 7 and up can head to the Family Studio for Art & Science Projects.
Schedule: Early Explorers Space: Saturdays & Sundays 1 - 4 pm,  Art Projects: Saturdays & Sundays 1 - 4 pm, Science Projects: Saturdays 1 - 4 pm.
Location: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

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​We had a chance to sit down with Jordan Fried, the owner of JWF Lacrosse. Fried recently started his private lacrosse coaching business in Westchester County. His goal is to make private lacrosse coaching more accessible to Westchester LAX players who want to take their game to the next level. 
 
Why Jordan started the business:
Jordan Fried: No one helped me with the recruiting process growing up. I came up through the high school athletic system myself and encountered a lack of guidance along the way. As a result, I wanted to create a coaching business that would simplify the process and help more student athletes understand the recruiting system so they could get placed at their dream schools and do what they love to do- play lacrosse!
 
How Jordan became interested in lacrosse:
Jordan Fried: During my childhood, I was diagnosed with leukemia and was treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering from 3-5. One day after receiving chemotherapy and walking to the car with my pole, I saw hundreds of people running in Orange jerseys in The New York City Marathon. I thought, “I’m going to do this one day.” Looking out the window and seeing those runners gave me hope that I too could run one day. My greatest vision was to beat cancer and to run just like them. Today, I am living a life beyond my wildest dreams. I beat cancer; I run annually in The New York City Marathon for Fred’s team (and wear an Orange jersey!) and live out my dream of playing and teaching lacrosse. The gift of running, freedom and hope was given to me when I almost lost my life, and I try to pay that gift forward with every student I teach. To me, lacrosse is not just about a love of the game. It is about the freedom to run, the freedom to win, the freedom to fight for what you believe in despite all odds being against you.  If I can do it, anyone can do it.
 
Working with Jordan vs. other Westchester County lacrosse coaches.  What you need to know:
Jordan Fried: As a result of playing internationally, I gained invaluable experience that taught me camaraderie and leadership skills. Lacrosse isn’t just about having the right skills on the field; it is also about knowing how to be a smarter player on the field. I teach my students a combination of the “soft skills” and the on the field skills they need to ensure success.
 
How coaching works with JWF Lacrosse:
Jordan Fried: I can coach you wherever is convenient for you- at a local field in Chappaqua or a local middle school of your choice.
 
How players can start preparing for Westchester County lacrosse this fall:
Jordan Fried: Lacrosse season officially kicks off in the beginning of March. However, if you want to play at the next level, you have to be playing lacrosse all year. Fall is the perfect time to prepare for the upcoming lacrosse season.
 
Here are my top 5 ways to start getting in shape for lacrosse this fall:

1. Get on the field- Take advantage of the nice weather before it goes away. This is the ideal time to practice before it is below freezing temperatures.
   
   
2. Start getting in shape- If you aren't doing hockey or basketball, you will want to work on your skills and get in the weight room. I also recommend running, doing speed ladder work and different cone drills.
   
   
3. Stick Skills- Get on the wall and work on your stick skills. Being able to catch and throw left and right and being able to shoot left and right on the run is important.
   
   
4. Position specific- If you play defense, now is a great time to work on your foot work. If you are a middie, work on longer sprints. If you play attack, work on change of direction and dodging.
   
   
5. Lacrosse IQ- Start brushing up on your lacrosse IQ- if you play offense, understand the X’s and O’s of how an offense works. If you play defense, understand different slide packages and how defense works.

 
If you want to get ready for the upcoming season, you can sign up for the JWF Lacrosse ultimate warrior package, which includes strength conditioning, improvement of stick skills and the top 4 things to know for college recruiting. You can email me at [email protected] or call 914-539-1279. 

ABOUT JORDAN FRIED, FOUNDER OF JWF LACROSSE
​
Jordan Fried is the Founder of JWF Lacrosse, a personal training lacrosse coaching company for Westchester County athletes looking to take their game to the next level. Having grown up in Westchester County and played at D1 level, Jordan knows the game better than anyone. He is passionate about coaching student athletes to succeed in all aspects of life. He currently coaches JV at Horace Greeley in Chappaqua, NY. Fried played Division 1 Lacrosse at Hofstra and played internationally.  He received a Masters from Hofstra University and majored in exercise science and is certified in strength conditioning. For more information, please email [email protected] or call  914-539-1279. ​

The winter season is fast approaching, which means lots of cold weather and lots of school vacation breaks.  At Pine Brook Fitness, our amazing facility has a bunch of awesome programs and activities to keep your kids busy, in shape, and having a ton of fun.  ​
​

Rock Climbing at The Rock Club
Bring your kids to The Rock Club for a fun day of indoor climbing in our 10,000 sq/ft. gym. Your kids are guaranteed to have an amazing time, get great exercise, and have a day to remember. Spend the day bouldering or traversing, or top rope climb with our Rent a Belayer.  Kids love rock climbing, as it is such a natural sport and activity full of encouragement, exercise, and good times. 
 
Vacation Mini Camps
At Pine Brook Fitness, we offer a number of Vacation Mini Camps.  These camps typically are scheduled during any seasonal holiday breaks such as Thanksgiving, Holiday Season, and February Break.  It’s a great opportunity to keep the kids busy and give them fun activities to do during the cold winter months. You can choose a tennis minicamp at The New Rochelle Racquet Club or a rock climbing minicamp at The Rock Club.
 
The New Rochelle Racquet Club offers numerous vacation mini camps throughout the year.  These super fun camps function similarly to our summer camps and are typically broken down into three time slots (morning, afternoon, and full day) and by age group.  Any child from the ages of 6-16 is sure is have a great time.  These camps not only keep kids busy during their days off from school but also give them an amazing opportunity to get exercise in a great environment and exposure to the sport of tennis.
 
The Rock Club offers two time slots for vacation mini camps, morning and afternoon.  These camps cater to ages 6-14 and are grouped accordingly. Your kids will have an incredible time climbing and be able to participate in in super fun activities like gaga ball, obstacle courses, crate stacking, and much more!
 
Here are a few we have scheduled so far
 
New Rochelle Racquet Club Camp
Thanksgiving Day Camp Nov. 25-27th
Winter Break Camp
 
The Rock Club
Winter Camp Week of Dec. 26 and Jan. 2
Presidents Camp Week of Feb. 20 ​
​

​Birthday Parties at The Rock Club
Our large and spacious facility at The Rock Club allows us to host all types of events and parties.  Adding climbing to a birthday party will leave you and your guests with a wonderful and memorable experience.  We have plenty of space to accommodate large groups as well as a separate party room for you and your guests to enjoy.
 
Additionally, The Rock Club is able to host Bar/ Bat Mitzvahs as well.  We have hosted numerous Bar/ Bat Mitzvahs over the years and the feedback could not be better.  Our patrons are always thrilled with the unique experience that climbing brings to their special event.
 
Lessons
We offer numerous private, semi-private, and group tennis or rock climbing lessons.  If your child is eager to improve their current skill set and take their game to the next level, this is the best choice for them.  Our professional instructors will help your children to excel and advance in their sport.  These programs are designed for those who wish to improve and take their sport seriously.  The vacation mini camps are geared more for those who just want to have fun while the private lessons build on that base and provide the best opportunity for their personal development.
 
Tennis and Rock Climbing Kids Programming
With the winter season fast approaching, we excited to announce that enrollment for winter is open.  We offer a variety of programs depending on your child’s age and skill level.
 
The New Rochelle Racquet Club offers three basic junior programs: TAUT (Ten and Under Tennis), Junior Programs, and TTP (Tournament Training Program).  Each program is designed to enhance your child’s skill set based on their age and experience.  Whether your child is beginner or seasoned player, we are sure to have a program that suits their needs.
 
Here is a short video with our TAUT Director Dimitri as he explains what make the New Rochelle Racquet Club TAUT Program so special.
 

The Rock Club offers a variety of kids programs to keep them busy and fit during the winter.  We offer a variety of programs to appeal to various age segments and skill levels; Biners (ages 3-6), Rockhangers (7-11), Girls Rockhangers (7-11), and Club Rock (12-16).  Additionally, we offer flash climbing programs, which allow your child a quick 1.5 hour session to get your child to the next level of climbing, quickly and efficiently. 
 
Annual Climbing Competition
We’d also like to announce that we will be holding our yearly climbing competition at The Rock Club in March (exact date TBD).  This is a great opportunity for serious climbers to compete in a great local comp.  This comp will be open to those who are ages 16+. 
 
Keeping the kids occupied during time off from school is always a challenge.  We hope this blog provided you with some ideas and gave you some inspiration for fun and healthy activities for your children. We encourage you to stop by our website or give us a call to learn more about the various programs, winter scheduling, and answer any general questions you may have.  Thanks for reading and hope you all have a wonderful fall and winter season.
 
Pine Brook Fitness
130 Rhodes Street
New Rochelle, NY 10801
914.636.1019
www.PineBrookFitness.com
 
Pine Brook Fitness is The Rock Club, The New Rochelle Racquet Club, and The Studios.

Getting enough sleep is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, both personally and professionally. A person's health is directly affected by their sleep habits.  What many people don't know is that the quality of sleep is just as crucial as the amount of hours they sleep. Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz lectures to dental societies about screening for Sleep Apnea and is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She practices general dentistry at Advanced Dentistry of Westchester in Harrison, NY where she also screens for and treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea. We sat down with her and discussed how Westchester Moms can get a better nights sleep during the upcoming holiday (and post election!) season.

Q: Who is in danger of not getting enough sleep?

Dr. Magid Katz: Anyone can be in danger of not getting enough sleep. There are many reasons for sleep deprivation. Too much work, crazy schedules, tending to children… with today’s busy schedules, people often do not make sleep a priority. What people do not realize is that by trying to gain more hours in a day, they are actually creating less productive and healthy hours. It is also important to note that even when enough time is set aside for sleep, not everyone may be getting the effective sleep needed. Sleep disorders, such as Sleep Apnea, can cause someone to have “mini-arousals” in which he or she wakes up multiple times an hour, sometimes every other minute, without knowing it. This is very exhausting on the body and does not allow the proper cycle of sleep needed for regeneration and repair. Despite having enough time for sleep, a person can be left tired and at risk for health consequences. One must set aside enough hours for sleep every night and make sure that the sleep itself is healthy and productive.

Q:  Are there sleep disorders that are more common with women?
Dr. Magid Katz: Women are more likely than men to have insomnia and report daytime sleepiness. Among other causes, this can be related to hormone fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Hormonal changes may also be associated with weight gain contributing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea, which is a condition where the soft tissues of the mouth and throat block one’s airway and breathing for periods. An estimated 18 million Americans have sleep apnea, including one in four women over the age of 65. Younger women are not exempt from risk either. Medications, neck size, jaw position and shape, tongue level, and weight are only some of the factors that contribute to Obstructive Sleep Apnea, which can have serious health consequences over time.

Q: Why is sleep important?
Dr. Magid Katz: Sleep is a time for cell regeneration and memory consolidation. Sleep is important for your mental, physical, and emotional health. Sleep deprivation or poor quality of sleep can have immediate consequences, such as car accidents, and can contribute to chronic health problems. It can affect how you learn, think, work, and react to people. It is important to note that it is not just the amount of sleep that matters but the quality of sleep.   

Q: How could getting more sleep improve someone's health?
Dr. Magid Katz: Allowing enough time for sleep and making sure it is healthy, productive sleep is important for your health. It will help keep you refreshed and alert. It can improve your memory, mood, and concentration and help combat depression and loss of libido. Did you know that getting more sleep could help you lose or control your weight as well? It does this by balancing the hormones that affect appetite, food choices and other body signals. Healthy sleep also helps keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and acid reflux under control. Getting enough productive sleep can decrease inflammation and the risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as keep your immune system healthy.

Q: How can Westchester Moms get more sleep?
Dr. Magid Katz: Here are the top 10 ways Westchester Moms can achieve a better night’s sleep this holiday season:

1. Keep bright electronics out of the bedroom. When phones have a bright light and continually light up while you are trying to sleep, it will disrupt your productive sleep.
2. Don’t eat too much right before bed. Cutting out food, specifically sugar and dairy, is pretty simple to do and very important. A full stomach keeps your body working instead of sleeping.
3. Don’t drink alcohol right before bed. Alcohol may help you fall asleep, but it will be an unproductive sleep and leave you tired in the morning.
4. Make sleep a priority by keeping a consistent bedtime and wake schedule, including weekends. Create a sleep routine that will help your body adapt to knowing when it is time for sleep.
5. Giving yourself enough time for sleep in the first place is key. Don’t think you can catch up on the weekends! Your body needs a certain amount of sleep per day, not in total.
6. Check your bedroom temperature. The ideal temperature for sleep is between 60 and 68 degrees. Any less and you’ll be chilled. Any more and you’ll be hot.
7. Don’t forget about exercise! Exercise is crucial in helping your body get a good night’s rest, but no sooner than two hours before going to bed.
8. Get a sleep study. If you snore or gasp while sleeping and have difficulty controlling your blood pressure, reflux, or blood sugar you're a prime target for a sleep study. Sleep studies can be done in a lab or even in the comfort of your own home. You may have a sleep disorder and not know it!
9. Partner Screening. If your partner can't sleep or keeps you awake due to loud snoring, get them screened, diagnosed, and treated so that you can not only sleep in quiet, but rest at ease.
10. Don’t ignore your (or your spouses) sleep disorder! If you have a sleep disorder, make sure to seek treatment to help your body maintain the correct amount of sleep.

About Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz, D.M.D.
Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz, D.M.D., lectures to dental societies about screening for Sleep Apnea and is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She practices general dentistry at Advanced Dentistry of Westchester in Harrison, NY where she also screens for and treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea. For more information visit www.adofw.com.

About Advanced Dentistry Of Westchester
Advanced Dentistry of Westchester offers patients of all ages the latest in dental care available in less than 1% of dental offices. Advanced Dentistry of Westchester is run by Dr. Kenneth Magid, D.D.S., FICD, and Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz, D.M.D. The practice offers a variety of services including family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry and works with patients who suffer from sleep apnea. Advanced Dentistry of Westchester also offers technology that enables them to care for deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. Advanced Dentistry of Westchester is located at 163 Halstead Avenue, Harrison, NY. For more information call (914) 835-0542 or visit www.adofw.com.

This week we are highlighting events for the weekend of November 18th - 20th and Thanksgiving weekend! With Thanksgiving and the winter holidays right around the corner there is a lot to celebrate. You can watch a Thanksgiving parade, run in a Turkey Trot, head to a community tree lighting, make a holiday craft, meet Santa or see a show! ​You can also visit our Community Calendar for a full listing of all events. 

If you are looking to do some shopping this Black Friday or Small Business Saturday, check out our list of our favorite locally owned kids clothing & consignment stores and shop small! Or if you want to volunteer your time or make a donation, check out these ideas to help out those in need in Westchester.

Don't forget to look ahead to make sure you purchase tickets in advance for upcoming holiday events and popular shows that sell out. Check out our Holiday Fun Guide for all the highlights.  

Lastly, if you have not already joined our e-mail list, join now for free! 

 Pajama Night at the Museum
Summary: Visit the Westchester Children's Museum after dark in your pajamas! Play in the exhibits and enjoy storytime in the Reading Nook. All ages welcome.
Schedule: Friday, November 18, 5-6:30pm
Location: Westchester Children's Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

Make a Felt Gingerbread Man
Summary: Kids 3 and up can enjoy a making a felt gingerbread man. Sign up in store or just drop in. Parent or guardian must remain on premises.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 10am - 12pm
Location: Michael's Stores in Hartsdale, Pelham and Port Chester, NY

A Dickens Tale
Summary: Actors recreate Victorian England in this beloved retelling of the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 11 am and 2 pm
Location: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road Ridgefield, CT

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting at Cross County Shopping Center
Summary: Head over to the Cross County Shopping Center as they kick off the official start to the holiday season with a festive parade, tree lighting and holiday concert featuring the NYC Swing Band.
​Schedule: Saturday, Nov 19th 6:00pm
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

LEGO® Star Wars™ Days!
​Summary: Enjoy Star Wars themed activities including Yoda Big Build, hunting down your favorite scenes in a Star Wars® takeover and more.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th and Sunday, November 20th
Location: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St. Yonkers, NY

New Rochelle 53rd Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade
Summary: Not to miss! This Thanksgiving Parade is the biggest one in New York outside of the Macy’s parade in New York City! The parade begins at the Huguenot Children's Library on 794 North Avenue and will work its way down North Avenue onto Main Street and end on Maple Avenue. Local schools, organizations, companies and bands from in and around Westchester County will be featured. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 10am
Location: Huguenot Children’s Library, 794 North Ave, New Rochelle, NY

Turkey Time at Teatown
Summary: Families can learn more about turkeys, make a craft, listen to a story and take a short hike.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 11am
Location: Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Rd, Ossining, NY

Thanksgiving Craft Project at Girl Again
Summary: Make a Thanksgiving Day craft project inspired by American Girl doll Kit Kittredge and a doll size box of thanks.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 11am
Location: Girl AGain, 2B, 4 Martine Ave, White Plains, NY

Kids Day at City Center
Summary: Celebrate the remodeling of City Center with Sparklicious, Songs for Seeds, the Little Mermaid, Nash the Amazing Scientist face painting and more.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 11am - 2pm
Location: City Center, 5 City Pl, White Plains, NY

Fantastic Mr. Fox
Summary: Enjoy this animated film based on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book about a fantastic fox and make your own fox mask. Recommended for ages 7 and up.  Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th and Sunday, November 20th 12pm
Location: Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Rd, Pleasantville, NY

The Wizard of Oz
Summary: Watch a professionally produced performance of The Wizard of Oz from a professional cast. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 1pm & 7:30 pm, Sunday, November 20th 2pm (also showing following weekend)
Location: Yorktown Stage, 1974 Commerce St, Yorktown Heights, NY​

The Chappaqua Orchestra presents - The Chappaqua Children's Book Festival Story Concert
Summary: Enjoy a family concert from the Chappaqua Orchestra featuring Paul Shaffer (SNL and Late Show with David Letterman) who narrates "A Family for Baby Grand" Story and more. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 4pm
Location: Wallace Auditorium, 480 Bedford Rd Chappaqua, NY

Mamaroneck Turkey Trot & Gobbler Race
Summary: The 50th Anniversary Turkey Trot in Mamaroneck includes a Gobbler Race (1 Mile) for ages 12 years and under and a Turkey Trot 5K (3.1 Mile). Register in advance.
Schedule: Sunday, November 20th 9:30am (Gobbler Race), 10:15am (Turkey Trot)
Location: Race Start & Finish Line is Harbor Island Park, in front of the Stephen E. Johnston Beach Pavilion, 1 Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY

Caring Santa
Summary: A special event with Santa for santa-lovers with special needs. Before mall hours, enjoy family photos with Santa beginning at 10am. 
Schedule: Sunday, November 20th 10am
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY​

UBS Parade Spectacular
Summary: This parade held in Stamford, CT is one of the largest helium balloon parades in the country, featuring everyone’s favorite giant balloon characters, award winning marching bands and fabulous floats. 
Schedule: Sunday, November 20th 12pm
Location: Stamford Downtown: Summer to Broad to Atlantic Streets, Stamford, CT

School's Out/Art's In
Summary: Drop into the Katonah Museum of Art’s Learning Center for engaging projects exploring line and drawing in a variety of forms.
Schedule: Friday, November 25th 10am - 3pm
​Location: Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St, Katonah, NY

Holiday Kickoff
Summary: A fun afternoon of activities including Holiday Sky Tonight Star Show, magic by Kathie, holiday sing-a-long and rustic holiday ornament craft.
​Schedule: Friday, November 25th 12 - 5pm
Location: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Mooseltoe
Summary: Watch a live performance of Mooseltoe, the charming story about a Moose who wants to fly with Santa’s reindeer. Ages 4 and up. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Friday, November 25th 11am
Location: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains, NY

Bedford Turkey Trot
Summary: Participate in the The 12th annual Bedford Turkey Trot.
Schedule: Saturday, November 26th 9am
Location: Bedford, NY

Green Craft Fair
Summary: Drop your children off at Westmoreland Sanctuary and they will entertain them while you Christmas shop! Make Candles, Animal Tracks, fairy/bird houses.
Schedule: Saturday, November 26th 11am
Location: Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Mt Kisco, NY

The Wizard of Oz
Summary: Watch a professionally produced performance of The Wizard of Oz from a professional cast. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 26th 7:30 pm, Sunday, November 27th 2pm
Location: Yorktown Stage, 1974 Commerce St, Yorktown Heights, NY

Westchester Teen Idol
​Summary: Enjoy the talent of 25 teens as they "sing their hearts out", competing for the title of Westchester Teen Idol! Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 26th 7:30pm
Location: Irvington Town Hall Theatre, 85 Main St, Irvington, NY

Rye's Mistletoe Magic
​Summary: Annual Mistletoe Magic event kicks off the holiday season with festivities along Purchase Street. The Square House will be open for holiday crafts and viewing of classic animated Christmas shows like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Schedule: Sunday, November 27th 12-3pm
Location: Purchase St, Rye, NY

Annual Frosty Day, Parade & Holiday Lighting
Summary: Frosty Day is a fun-filled winter celebration with family activities, a parade and annual holiday lighting ceremony at the gazebo in Wampus Brook Park. Activities include horse & wagon rides, train rides, Santa, face painting, music performances and more.
Schedule: Sunday, November 27th 12:30pm - 5pm, Parade at 4pm, Lighting at 4:30pm
Location: Armonk, NY​​

Please note that many ongoing events are closed on holidays.
​
The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze
Summary: Experience a Halloween spectacular of thousands of  jack o' lanterns by walking through an 18th century riverside landscape. Recommended for all ages. This event sells out so you need to purchase tickets or a membership through Historic Hudson Valley in advance. 
Schedule: Fridays and weekends plus some additional evenings, ends November 26th.
Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S Riverside Ave, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

Adventure to Santa
Summary: Ridge Hill's holiday adventure to see Santa with Po and Friends! Blast off on a rocket-powered cart ride to the North Pole, enjoy a private meet and greet with Santa and more. Reserve tickets in advance, space is limited. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Santa's Waiting- Photos With Santa
​Summary: Take your children to the Westchester for holiday photos with Santa. Make a reservation in advance at www.noerrsanta.com/simon.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Santa Photos & Visits
Summary: Visit Santa to share wishes and capture memories! Take your family photo with Santa (you can even bring your pets!) at Cross County Shopping Center. Reservations available, but not required.
Schedule: Friday, November 11th through Christmas Eve
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

The Polar Express Train Ride
Summary: Pajama-clad train passengers will relive the magic of the Polar Express story and see their favorite characters come to life as they are whisked away aboard The Polar Express (an actual train ride) on a magical round trip to the North Pole. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 18th through December 28th, Friday-Sunday and December 21st-23rd, 26th-28th, various times
Location: Catskill Mountain Railroad, Aaron Ct, Kingston, NY

The Polar Express IMAX Movie
Summary: “All aboard!” for a magical IMAX movie adventure to Santa’s North Pole headquarters as the holiday film “The Polar Express” is shown on a giant six-story screen. Purchase tickets in advance.
​Schedule: Friday, November 25th-December 18th on weekends and daily December 26th - January 2nd 5pm (The Polar Express Pajama Party is December 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th at 9am)
Location: The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N Water St, Norwalk, CT

Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Garden
Summary: Enchanting model trains zip through a display of 150 landmarks, each re-created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials—all under the twinkling glow. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 19th - January 16th 
Location: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY

Holiday Train Show at GNC
Summary: Train lovers of all ages will love the HO gauge model trains on display among replicas of area landmarks, courtesy of Yonkers Model Railroad Club. Purchase tickets in advance.
​Schedule: Saturday, November 26th, Sunday, 27th, Saturday, December 3rd, Sunday December 4th 10am - 4:30pm 
Location: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY

Westchester's Winter Wonderland
Summary: A one-of-a-kind holiday experience featuring Santa and Friends, RangersTown Rink, the Hanneford Holiday Circus, great rides, fantastic local food and drinks, light show and more. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: November 25th - January 2nd, Thursday-Sunday evenings through December 11th and thendaily evenings (except December 24th and 25th)
Location: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY

A BILLION BRICKS 4: LEGO® Super Heroes in Gotham
Summary: Bring the whole family to the annual "A Billion Bricks" exhibition and be awed by five famous architectural landmarks made completely out of LEGO® bricks.
Schedule: November 19th - February 5th, Monday-Saturday 9 - 5pm, Sunday 11 - 5pmLocation: 
Location: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd, Stamford, CT

Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning
Summary: The Lakeshore Learning Store in Scarsdale offers a "Free Crafts for Kids."
Schedule: Every Saturday from 11am - 3pm
Location: Lakeshore Learning Store, 969 Central Park Ave, Scarsdale, NY 

Hudson River Museum
Summary: Visit the Early Explorers Space, a safe space for children under 5 to explore, play, and create with their families. The room hosts a large-scale dollhouse, blocks, puppet theater, and books. Children 7 and up can head to the Family Studio for Art & Science Projects.
Schedule: Early Explorers Space: Saturdays & Sundays 1 - 4 pm,  Art Projects: Saturdays & Sundays 1 - 4 pm, Science Projects: Saturdays 1 - 4 pm.
Location: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

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With the holidays right around the corner (plus Black Friday November 25th and Small Business Saturday November 26th) many of us are starting to think about shopping for gifts. It is so easy to get lost in the crowd at big shopping hubs; we have all been there!

This article showcases some of Westchester County's best locally owned children's boutiques and consignment stores, recommended by the women who know best, our own Westchester Moms. Not only do these stores carry unique and special items, they also  give you the opportunity to shop and support local. 

​Here are some ways to keep your holiday shopping small business friendly and Westchester proud! Shop Small!

For more locally owned children's shops in Westchester check out the links below:
Adrian East, Bronxville, NY
Jagger and Jade, Armonk, NY
LOL Kids, Armonk, NY
Neil's, Scarsdale, NY
Star Spangled Carousel, Armonk, NY
​Stephanie's Closet, Larchmont, NY
Twinkle Toes, Rye, NY
Wyatt Lily, Scarsdale, NY 
Yogi's Paw, Mamaroneck & Mount Kisco, NY
Yummy Yummie Goodness, Hastings, NY

If you are looking for local thrift shops for adult and household items as well here are a few recommended by Moms in our community:
Hillside Thrift Shop, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Humane Society of Westchester Thrift Shop, New Rochelle, NY 
The Cherry Door, Tarrytown, NY
​The Golden Shoestring, Larchmont, NY
The Nearly New Shop, Tarrytown, NY

Written by Jenna Korn. Jenna holds a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education in Birth through 2nd Grade. She currently works as an Education Coordinator and Teacher in a private preschool in Bronxville. Jenna enjoys bringing local families together and loves exploring everything Westchester with her 2-year-old daughter. 

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The holidays are a great time of year to be thankful for the things you have and to help those less fortunate. Donating or volunteering is an excellent way to give back to those in need and bring them some holiday cheer. If you are feeling generous this holiday season, here are 10 ways you can make a difference in Westchester County, NY. 

1. Participate in #Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving on Tuesday, November 29th. To find a list of local organizations, charities, events and more in Westchester visit their website and learn more in this video.
​

2. Everyone deserves a delicious Thanksgiving or holiday meal. Help the Food Bank for Westchester this holiday season by pledging to feed families. Your support can help feed 1,000 families with a holiday meal. You can get others involved and really make a difference. Find out more on their website.

6. Donate to the Salvation Army of Greater New York. You can take part in their Red Box campaign and provide "Christmas in a box" to families in need. You can also volunteer to provide holiday meals, participate in theirAngel Tree Program or give online.
​

To learn more about other non profit organizations that assist families in Westchester visit our Give Back page. Wishing everyone a happy and warm holiday season!

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Mark your calendars and reserve your tickets! The holidays are coming and Westchester (and our neighbors) have some fantastic holiday events planned for families. There are so many things to do: breakfast with Santa, the Nutcracker, holiday train shows, concerts and much more! Many of these events fill up quickly so we suggest making reservations in advance.

Here's our list of upcoming holiday events for kids in Westchester County, NY. Have one to add? Please comment below or add it in our free Community Calendar. We'll update this article as more events are announced and additional details are provided. Because sometimes the weather does not cooperate and things can change, it is always best to check the direct link to the actual event in our calendar to confirm the time before heading out.

Please also check out our article about upcoming holiday kickoff events including tree lightings and parades. Happy Holidays!

​Adventure to Santa
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve
Location: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Santa's Waiting- Photos With Santa
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Santa Photos & Visits
Schedule: Friday, November 11th through Christmas Eve
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY


Caring Santa
Schedule: Sunday, November 20th 10am
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Breakfast with Santa
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 8:30am - 10:30am
Location: Applebee's, 18 Saw Mill River Rd, Hawthorne, NY

9th Annual Scarsdale Holiday Breakfast
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 9am
​Location: Scarsdale, NY

Town of Greenburgh Breakfast with Santa
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 9am
Location: Anthony F. Veteran Park, 11 Olympic Ln, Ardsley, NY
​
Santa Visits the Rosen House
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 10am
Location: Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY 

Brunch with Santa at Stew Leonard's
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th and Sunday, December 11th, three seating times at 10am, 12:30pm and 2:00pm
Location: Stew Leonard's, 1 Stew Leonard Dr., Yonkers, NY

Brunch With Santa at Westchester Broadway Theatre
Schedule: Saturday , December 17th, two seatings 9am and 12:30pm
Location: Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY

The Nutcracker - Ajkun Ballet Theatre Performance
Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7pm , Saturday, December 3rd  2pm & 7pm
Location: Isaac E. Young Middle School, 2nd Floor Dance Studio, 270 Centre Ave, New Rochelle, NY

​Cirque-tacular: Snowkus Pocus
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd  8pm
Location: Academic Arts Theatre at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Rd, Valhalla, NY

The Nutcracker Performed by New York Theatre Ballet
Schedule: Sunday, December 4th  3pm and 6pm
Location: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY

The Nutcracker by Central Park Dance
Schedule: Sunday, December 11th 5pm
Location: The Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY

The Hip Hop Nutcracker
Schedule: Thursday, December 15th 8pm
​Location: The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY

The Nutcracker by the Westchester Ballet Company
Schedule: Friday, December 16th 10am, Saturday, December 17th 12:30pm and 4:30pm, Sunday, December 18th 2pm
Location: Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY

The Nutcracker by Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance
Schedule: Friday, December 16th 6pm, Saturday, December 17th 2pm and 6 pm, Sunday, December 18th 11am and 2pm
Location: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E Ridge Rd, Ridgefield, CT

Colonial Nutcracker
Schedule: Saturday, December 17th 3pm
Location: Paramount Hudson Valley, 1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY

A Dickens Tale
Schedule: Saturday, November 19th 11am and 2pm
Location: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road Ridgefield, CT​

Mr. Dickens Tells a Christmas Carol
Schedule: December 2nd - December 30th, specific afternoons and evenings
Location: Lyndhurst, 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY

A Christmas Carol
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 2pm and 4pm
Location: Radio Theatre at Husdon River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Dickens' 'Christmas Carol'
Schedule: December 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th at 4, 5:15, and 6:30pm
Location: Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns, 42 N. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 

Mooseltoe
Schedule: Friday, November 25th 11am
Location: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains, NY

Charlie Brown Christmas Performed Live
Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 11am, 1pm, 3pm
Location: The Manor Club, 1023 Esplanade, Pelham, NY

The Laurie Berkner Band - A Holiday Celebration Concert
Schedule: Saturday, December 17th 11:30am
Location: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY

It's a Wonderful Life
Schedule: December 23rd - 29th 12pm
Location: Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Rd, Pleasantville, NY

The Polar Express Train Ride
Schedule: November 18th through December 28th, Friday-Sunday and December 21st-23rd, 26th-28th, various times
Location: Catskill Mountain Railroad, Aaron Ct, Kingston, NY

The Polar Express IMAX Movie
Schedule: Friday, November 25th-December 18th on weekends and daily December 26th - January 2nd 5pm (The Polar Express Pajama Party is December 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th at 9am)
Location: The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N Water St, Norwalk, CT

Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Garden
Schedule: November 19th - January 16th
Location: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY

Holiday Train Show at GNC
Schedule: Saturday, November 26th, Sunday, 27th, Saturday, December 3rd, Sunday December 4th 10am - 4:30pm 
Location: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY

Holidays on the Hill Train Show
Schedule: December 2nd-18th, Friday-Sunday, daytime and evenings
Location: Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, 2610 NY-35, Katonah, NY

Pre-Chanukah Menorah Workshop at Home Depot
Schedule: Sunday, December 11th 1 - 3:30pm
Location: The Home Depot, 55 Weyman Ave, New Rochelle, NY

Family Chanukah Party at Scarsdale Synagogue
Schedule: Sunday, December 18th 11am
Location: 2 Ogden Rd, Scarsdale, NY
​
Grand Chanukah Celebration
Schedule: Sunday, December 25th 2 - 4pm
Location: 600 N. Broadway, Yonkers, NY

Chanukah on Ice
Schedule: Sunday, December 25th 3 - 5:30pm
Location: Playland Ice Casino, 1 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

Chopstix Chanukah - Chabad of the Rivertowns
Schedule: Sunday, December 25th 3 - 5:30pm
Location: 303 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Untermyer Park Menorah Lighting
Schedule: Sunday, December 25th 4 - 5pm
Location: 945 N.Broadway, Yonkers, NY

Light Up Scarsdale Menorah Lighting
Schedule: Monday, December 26th 5pm
Location: Chase Park, 32 Chase Rd, Scarsdale, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Irvington - Chabad of the Rivertowns​
Schedule: Monday, December 26th 7pm
Location: Firehouse, 90 Main St, Irvington, NY

21 Foot Menorah Lighting at Stew Leonards with Scarsdale Synagogue
Schedule: Tuesday, December 27th 5:30pm
Stew Leonard’s, 1 Stew Leonard Dr, Yonkers, NY

Menorah Lighting at Cross County Shopping Center
Schedule: Tuesday, December 27th 6 - 7pm
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Ardsley - Chabad of the Rivertowns​
Schedule: Tuesday, December 27th 7pm
Location: At the corner of Saw Mill Road and Ashford Road, Ardsley, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Dobbs Ferry - Chabad of the Rivertowns
Schedule: Wednesday, December 28th 7pm
Location: At the corner of Cedar and Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Menorah Lighting at Ridge Hill
Schedule: Wednesday, December 28th 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Location: Ridge Hill (near Legoland), 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Car Menorah Parade
Schedule: Thursday, December 29th 5pm - 6:30pm
Location: 40 S Broadway, Yonkers, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Hastings - Chabad of the Rivertowns
Schedule: Thursday, December 29th 7pm
Location: In front of the VFM on Warburton Avenue, Hastings, NY​

Holiday Kickoff
Schedule: Friday, November 25th 12 - 5pm
Location: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Westchester's Winter Wonderland
Schedule: November 25th - January 2nd, Thursday-Sunday evenings through December 11th and then daily evenings (except December 24th and 25th)
Location: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY

North Kensico House Christmas Light Show
​Schedule: November 27th - January 1st, 5:30pm – 11:00pm nightly
Location: 21 N Kensico Ave, White Plains, NY

Bricktacular!
Schedule: Dec 3rd - Sun 25th
Location: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St. Yonkers, NY

A Dickens of a Holiday at Wainwright House
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10am - 4pm
Location: Wainwright House, 260 Stuyvesant Avenue Rye, New York

BID Family Day: Make a Gift Fair
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10:30am
Location: New Rochelle Public Library, 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, NY

St. Nicholas Day
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 12pm
Location: Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Tuckahoe Winterfest
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5-8pm and Sunday, December 4th 12-5pm
Location: Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

City of White Plains WinterFest
Schedule: ​December 10th - December 18th,11 am - 7 pm
Location: Court St. between Martine Ave. and Main St., White Plains, NY

3rd Annual Yonkers Downtown Gingerbread House Contest
Schedule: Saturday, December 10th 2pm
Location: Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY

Christmas Inn
Schedule: December 1st - December 23rd
Location: Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY

Westchester All Stars Christmas For Veterans Concert
Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7:30pm
Location: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater,  1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY 

Holiday Tea Musicales
Schedule: December 3rd-5th 1pm
Location: Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY

This Wonderful Life
Schedule: Friday, December 9th 8pm
Location: Paramount Hudson Valley, 1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY

Looking at Christmas By The Armonk Players
Schedule: Thursday, December 15th 8pm
Location: Whippoorwill Hall Auditorium, Armonk, NY

Wishing you and your family a warm and happy holiday season!

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** This article has been updated to reflect new events as well as updated dates and times. It is best to check our Calendar and direct link to the actual event in case there are changes due to scheduling or weather.

It's holiday time! What better way to start the season than with a tree lighting. You can head into New York City to enjoy the spectacular, star studded show at the Rockefeller Center tree lighting on November 30th. Here in Westchester, many of our local towns and shopping centers are also hosting holiday kick off celebrations. Christmas tree and menorah lightings, parades, caroling and pictures with Santa are all in store for you this holiday season. It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

Here's our list of upcoming holiday kickoff events in Westchester County, NY. This list is chronological. Have one to add? Please comment below or add it in our free Community Calendar. We'll update this article as more events are announced and additional details are provided. 

You may also want to check out our Holiday Fun Guide loaded with holiday shows like the Nutcracker, where to see Santa, train shows and more! Enjoy!

Yonkers Tree Lighting
Schedule: Thursday, December 1st 4pm
Location: Getty Square, Yonkers, NY

​New Rochelle Holiday Lighting Ceremony & Hot Chocolate
Schedule: Thursday, December 1st 5:30pm
Location: Memorial Plaza, 6 Memorial Hwy, New Rochelle, NY
​
Bronxville Hometown Holiday- Tree Lighting, Parade & Santa's Workshop
Schedule: Tree Lighting is Friday, December 2nd 5-5:30pm, Santa's Workshop is Friday, December 2nd 5:30pm-7:30pm, Saturday, December 3rd 10am-2pm, Sunday, December 4th 12pm-2pm
Location: Lighting is Leonard Morange Square, Parkway Rd, Bronxville, NY and Santa's Workshop is 118 Kraft Ave, Bronxville, NY

Destination Hastings presents: HFNL Lights up the Night & Fourth Annual Village Crawl
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 6-10pm 
Location: James Harmon Community Center, 44 Main St, Hastings-On-Hudson, NY

Bedford Tree Lighting
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 7pm
Location: Village Green, Bedford, NY

Rye Brook Winterfest Tree & Menorah Lighting
​Schedule: Friday, December 2nd 5pm
Location: Pine Ridge Park, Rye Brook, NY

Irvington Holiday Happening & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 10am-8pm (tree lighting at 5pm)
Location: Main St, Irvington, NY​

Chappaqua Community Sing, Holiday Crafts, & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 3:30 - 6:30pm (tree lighting at 5pm)
Location: Horace Greeley House, 100 King St, Chappaqua, NY

Holiday Lighting of the 1883 Lighthouse at Sleepy Hollow
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 3:30pm
Location: Edge-On-Hudson, 199 Beekman Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Tarrytown 17th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting & TaSH Holiday Pop-Up Farmers Market
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5pm (Farmer's Market runs 3-6pm)
Location: Patriot's Park, Tarrytown, NY

Pound Ridge 15th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5pm
Location: Scott Corners, Westchester Ave, Pound Ridge, NY

Dobbs Ferry Holiday Tree Lighting and Pictures With Santa
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 4:30pm
Location: Main St & Cedar St, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Tuckahoe Winterfest & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 5-8pm and Sunday, December 4th 12-5pm
Location: Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

Ardsley Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 6pm 
Location: Legion Park, 505 Ashford Ave, Ardsley, NY

Yorktown 5th Annual Holiday Lights Parade & Tree Lighting
Schedule: Saturday, December 3rd 6:30pm
Location: Jack DeVito Memorial Field, 1974 Commerce St, Yorktown Heights, NY

White Plains City Lights, Bright Holiday Nights - Tree Lighting
​Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 4pm
Location: Tibbits Park, N Broadway & Lake St, White Plains, NY

Village of Mamaroneck Tree Lighting & Social
​Schedule: Sunday, December 4th 4pm
Location: Beach Pavilion, Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY

Katonah Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Schedule: ​Sunday, December 4th 5:30pm
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 68 Bedford Rd, Katonah, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Irvington - Chabad of the Rivertowns​
Schedule: Monday, December 26th 7pm
Location: Firehouse, 90 Main St, Irvington, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Ardsley - Chabad of the Rivertowns​
Schedule: Tuesday, December 27th 7pm
Location: At the corner of Saw Mill Road and Ashford Road, Ardsley, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Dobbs Ferry - Chabad of the Rivertowns
Schedule: Wednesday, December 28th 7pm
Location: At the corner of Cedar and Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Village Menorah Lightings Hastings - Chabad of the Rivertowns
Schedule: Thursday, December 29th 7pm
Location: In front of the VFM on Warburton Avenue, Hastings, NY

Menorah Lighting Celebration at Stew Leonard's
Schedule: Tuesday, December 27th 5:30pm
Location: Stew Leonard’s, 1 Stew Leonard Dr, Yonkers, NY

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Here's to a great weekend filled with outdoor adventures, amazing performances, charity events and holiday celebrations! Here is our list of things you don't want to miss this weekend.

​You can also visit our Community Calendar for a full listing of all events. Look ahead to make sure you purchase tickets in advance for upcoming holiday events and popular shows.  If you have not already joined our e-mail list, join now for free!

High School Musical
Summary: Watch a live performance of Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical, High School Musical. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Friday, November 11th and Saturday, November 12th at 8 pm, Sunday, November 13th at 2 pm
Location: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains, NY

Harvest Bazaar and Christmas Fair
Summary: Shop for crafts, baked goods, jewelry, cosmetics, and other fine items for gift-giving.
Schedule: Saturday, November 12th
Location: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 26 Prospect St, Brewster, NY

Special Olympics Westchester Polar Plunge
Summary: Polar Plungers will take a quick dive into the cold waters of Long Island Sound to raise money for the 3,500 Athletes of Special Olympics NY - Hudson Valley Region. Those interested in participating or sponsoring a Plunger can register here. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 12th 10 am - 12 pm (registration 10 - 11:30am, plunge at noon)
Location: Glen Island Park, 1 Weyman Ave New Rochelle, NY (head down to the beach)

HATCHED: A Seedling Drama About Life on the Farm
​Summary: Watch a live performance of Hatched, a beautiful tale of the awakening of baby animals on an American family farm. The show is told with handcrafted puppets with very little human dialogue. Ages up to 6. Buy tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 12th 11 am - 12 pm, 1:30 - 2:30 pm
Location: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck, NY

Bubble Time!
Summary: Watch a live, soapy circus for all ages. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 12th 2 - 3 pm
Location: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main Street, Tarrytown, NY

Veteran's Day at The Thomas Paine Cottage Museum
Summary: A celebration to honor all the men and women who have selflessly served our country in The Revolutionary War and all our heroes since.
Schedule: Saturday, November 12th 2 - 5 pm
Location: The Thomas Paine Cottage Museum, 20 Sicard Ave, New Rochelle, NY

Sweat For A Cure
Summary: Push Fitness, Fiore Pilates, and Tovami Yoga have joined up with the American Cancer Society to help in the fight against cancer and so can you! Hit up a high-energy bootcamp session, a meditative yoga hour, or an empowering Pilates class, all in ONE DAY. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. Register in advance.
Schedule: Sunday, November 13th 8 am - 1 pm
Location: Push Fitness of Westchester, 154 E Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck, NY

​Family Nature Walk: Trees, Wonderful Trees
Summary: Children can enjoy nature with a walk around the pond while on a tree hunt. Learn how to identify trees using leaves, seeds and bark.
Schedule: Sunday, November 13th 10 - 11:30 am
Location: Sheldrake Environmental Center, 685 Weaver St, Larchmont, NY

Hastings Flea
Summary: Last flea of the season! Enjoy family fun with shopping, food, live music, bounce house, a fun-o-menal physics activity area and more.
Schedule: Sunday, November 13th 10am - 4 pm
Location: 131 Southside Ave, Hastings-On-Hudson, NY

Turkey Scavenger Hunt at GNC
Summary: Bring your toddlers to a traditional “turkey token” hunt along a woodland trail. After the hunt, all “gobblers” enjoy snacks and nature crafts. Event held rain or shine. Register in advance.
Schedule: Sunday, November 13th 1:30 pm
Location: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY

Adventure to Santa
Summary: Ridge Hill's holiday adventure to see Santa with Po and Friends! Blast off on a rocket-powered cart ride to the North Pole, enjoy a private meet and greet with Santa and more. Reserve tickets in advance, space is limited. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve
Location: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Santa's Waiting- Photos With Santa
​Summary: Take your children to the Westchester for holiday photos with Santa. Make a reservation in advance at www.noerrsanta.com/simon.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve 
Location: The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Santa Photos & Visits
Summary: Visit Santa to share wishes and capture memories! Take your family photo with Santa (you can even bring your pets!) at Cross County Shopping Center. Reservations available, but not required.
Schedule: Friday, November 11th through Christmas Eve
Location: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

Bats & Ghosts: The Art of Adam Handler 
Summary: A bright and seasonal multi-media art exhibition featuring colorful and bigger than life bats and ghosts by Westchester based artist Adam Handler.
Schedule: October - December 15th during museum hours
Location: Westchester Children's Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze
Summary: Experience a Halloween spectacular of thousands of  jack o' lanterns by walking through an 18th century riverside landscape. Recommended for all ages. This event sells out so you need to purchase tickets or a membership through Historic Hudson Valley in advance. 
Schedule: Fridays and weekends plus some additional evenings September 30th - November 26th
Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S Riverside Ave, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

Lisa Wallos of Early Intervention and Beyond tells us how she helps frustrated children and parents, who may not know who to turn to. 

Tired of feeling like your toddler is in charge? Are you sick of feeling frustrated every time you ask your child to do something and the answer is no? Have you had it with bedtime drama? 

If you answered yes to any of those questions (or all!), you may be interested to learn about a local specialist who can help you, right in your home, here in Westchester. 

Meet Lisa Wallos of Early Intervention and Beyond. She offers private, in-home Educational and Behavioral Therapy to Special Needs and Typical Children as well as their parents.  We asked her a few questions about how she can help children and parents.
​
Q: Why would a family reach out to you when there is the NYS  Early Intervention program?
A: Well, the NYS Early Intervention Program is an exceptional program but there are very specific eligibility requirements that enable only those who qualify as delayed to receive services. Many children may not qualify if they don't meet the specified 33% delay in a functional area. Some families feel the need to supplement what Early Intervention doesn't provide with an expert in the field. Other families find their kids need more support after the state no longer provides services. 

Our services extend beyond preschool which is great for families after the  CPSE Program ends at age five. There are virtually no other in-home service agencies that address the needs of the older student and their parents. My goal as an educator and Family Trainer is to help children of all ages function to the best of their ability and support their parents along the way. 

Q: Do you make house calls for children with behavioral challenges?
A: Yes, I work with families primarily in their home in a fully supportive and non judgmental way and address their children's negative behaviors that effect family functioning. Issues range from potty training, to sleeping in ones own bed, managing  temper tantrums, and effectively handling any mal adaptive behavior that both typical and special needs kids experience.  It can be nothing short of a life saver for parents who have kids that are out of control and parents truly receive the support they need!  If necessary, I will work with families in the community where parents find they are having difficulty with their kids. We also provide phone sessions and video conferencing for parents who need  more immediate support as well. 

Q: Have you worked with families outside of their home?
A: Parents have needed help with their children in retail and grocery stores and at birthday parties and parks. I've worked in restaurants where kids need help learning to eat appropriately in public places and even on Metro North Trains to help students manage their discomfort of riding public transportation. 

Q:  Do you work with groups of children to address social skills? 
A: Yes, depending on a child's level of functioning of course. If appropriate, and with younger children, I'll work with two children at a time to develop skills such as sharing toys, turn taking, sharing space and attention. It's a great opportunity to work on reciprocal language and show parents how to model and prompt language with their little ones. Plus, there's always fun ways for us to work on improving cognitive skills in these lessons as well. I'll work on what needs to be worked on. As children get older, larger groups are more appropriate but I'll address what's appropriate and relevant.

Q: What are some common mistakes you see from parents when you work with them?
A: Well, I see parents spending an enormous amount of time verbally battling it out with their toddlers. It's somewhat puzzling when I see moms and dads  habitually negotiating with a baby in a diaper.  I also see parents get too soft on consequences or forget to give them all together. The common denominator is that they give away their control because of the fear of tantrums. This isn't as difficult to treat as one might think.  

Q: How can parents reach you? 
A: Come visit earlyinterventionandbeyond.com where you can learn about all the home base services we offer. 
Early Intervention and Beyond 
E-mail: [email protected]  
Phone: (914) 299-3066

Hello November! We have just a few more weeks (or more hopefully) to take advantage of the great outdoors before winter arrives. So check out the beautiful fall leaves, head to the zoo or enjoy the simplicity of your neighborhood playground. As we move into the colder months more events are moving indoors, but will certainly not disappoint! Performing arts season is coming and there's a lot to see (more to come on that!).

​Here is our list of things you don't want to miss this weekend! You can also visit our Community Calendar for a full listing of all events. Look ahead to make sure you purchase tickets in advance for upcoming popular shows and performances.  If you have not already joined our e-mail list, join now for free!

Just a friendly reminder, the clocks fall back Sunday. Check out some tips to make it a little easier.

Imagination Movers
Summary: Watch  the famous Imagination Movers perform their high-energy, interactive live music act live! Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th 11am & 3 pm
Location: Paramount Hudson Valley Theatre, 1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY

Red Hook & The Chocolate Festival
​Summary: A full day of street festival chocolatey fun, nestled in the quaint Hudson Valley Village of Red Hook. Tastings, live music, food demos, vendors, competitions and more.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th 11am - 5 pm
Location: 7346 S Broadway, Red Hook, NY

Family Saturdays @ the Lab
Summary: Drop by the Media Arts Lab for hands-on activities for kids ages 3 and up. Create your own characters and see them come to life at animation stations. Free!
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th 1 - 3 pm
Location: Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Rd, Pleasantville, NY

Family Fun Day
Summary: The Ardsley Education Foundation and Gate Hill Day Camp bring you Family Fun Day. Carnival games with prizes, bounce houses, obstacle course, Gaga Madness, parachute games, and more! Perfect for preschool and elementary school children. Register in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th 1 - 3 pm
Location: Concord Rd, Ardsley, NY

The Really Big Show!
Summary: The Really Big Show, headlined by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, is a fundraiser to benefit the incredible programs of Big Brothers Big Sisters of FSW and Family Services of Westchester. A sixties-style variety show, The Really Big Show is fun for all ages. Purchase tickets in advance.
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th 7 - 10 pm
Location: The Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY

New Castle Scramble Sunday
Summary: A morning of outdoor fun for kids including running, jumping and obstacles. Prescriptions for Fitness & L3 Fitness, World Cup Nursery School and Kiwi Country Day Camp will host the event. Music will be provided by Hopeton Lemon of DJ Catch 1. Sponsored by New Castle Recreation & Parks and Platinum Drive Realty.
Schedule: Sunday, November 6th 9 - 11 am
Location: Recreation field in Chappaqua (across from Robert E. Bell Middle School), 50 Senter St, Chappaqua, NY

Family Day: Follow the Line 
Summary: Enjoy an afternoon of free, all-ages activities including a portrait studio, in-gallery sketching, and three-dimensional line experiments and a performance by storyteller and illustrator Jeff Hopkins. Free!
Schedule: Sunday, November 6th 12 - 5 pm
Location: Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St, Katonah, NY

Family Concert: African-American Musical Traditions
Summary: In celebration of CUUC’s commitment to Black Lives Matter, Music Director and acclaimed musician Adam Kent performs piano works by composers of African descent and compositions inspired by African-American musical traditions. The concert begins with a family-friendly Music for All Ages presentation with Ms. León. Purchase tickets in advance. Free childcare available with advanced reservation.
Schedule: Sunday, November 6th 1 - 3 pm
Location: Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 468 Rosedale Ave, White Plains, NY

Bats & Ghosts: The Art of Adam Handler 
Summary: A bright and seasonal multi-media art exhibition featuring colorful and bigger than life bats and ghosts by Westchester based artist Adam Handler.
Schedule: October - December 15th during museum hours
Location: Westchester Children's Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze
Summary: Experience a Halloween spectacular of thousands of  jack o' lanterns by walking through an 18th century riverside landscape. Recommended for all ages. This event sells out so you need to purchase tickets or a membership through Historic Hudson Valley in advance. 
Schedule: Fridays and weekends plus some additional evenings September 30th - November 26th
Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S Riverside Ave, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

Adventure to Santa
Summary: Ridge Hill's holiday adventure to see Santa with Po and Friends! Blast off on a rocket-powered cart ride to the North Pole, enjoy a private meet and greet with Santa and more. Reserve tickets in advance, space is limited. 
Schedule: Saturday, November 5th through Christmas Eve
Location: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY