As the new year approaches, we are sharing some upcoming events for Westchester County families to celebrate the big event!
​

​Dave & Buster's Noon Year's Eve
Tue Dec 31st 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dave & Buster's, 4661 Palisades Center Dr, West Nyack, NY
Celebrate New Year's Eve at Noon! Your ticket comes with a breakfast buffet, $10 Power Card with UNLIMITED video game play, festive party favors, a gingerale toast at "Noon Years" and other Ball Drop Celebrations! Purchase tickets in advance.

​10th Annual Ring in the New Year at Noon at New Roc
​Tue Dec 31st 10:30am - 12:30pm
New Roc City, 33 Lecount Pl, New Rochelle, NY​
For the 10th year in a row, New Roc will offer their festive Ring in the New Year at Noon at New Roc event for kids ages 2 – 10 in the atrium from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm. Parents and kids will enjoy an exciting Times Square-inspired atmosphere in a safe and fun environment. While the highlight of the event is always the thrilling count-down to a 3,000+ balloon drop at noon, there are also many other activities like face painting, arts and crafts, kiddy rides, clowns, magic, a singing princess, wheel of chance, games, snacks, goody bag, soccer, raffle prizes and much more! This year’s event will support the New Rochelle Library Foundation through a $10 donation per family of 4 when registering for the New Roc Event. Here are more details and donation information.

New Years Countdown to Noon at Bounce U
Tue Dec 31st 11:00am - 1:00pm
BounceU Elmsford, 150 Clearbrook Rd, Elmsford, NY
Come ring in the New Year, BounceU Style. An all ages bounce featuring 90 minutes in the 2 giant bounce rooms (45 minutes each). All participating kids will receive hats, horns and blowers. We'll stop the action to do a countdown to 12 - NOON. Then all kids will enjoy a pizza "party" with soft drinks. A great way to celebrate the New Year with young friends. total event time - 2 hours. Only $19.95 per child. Parents are FREE. Reservations required. Space is limited. Details & registration: www.bounceu.com/elmsford-ny/calendar/.

Westchester Parks Foundation Rings in the New Year at Winter Wonderland, Family Friendly NY Eve Celebration
Tue Dec 31st 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY​
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland, a signature event in Westchester County, will host its third annual family-friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration at Kensico Dam in Valhalla. Families with children of all ages are invited to enjoy the ball drop celebration at 7:00 p.m. followed by a 5-minute exciting pyrotechnic show. The family-friendly event will also include all regular activities that occurs at Westchester’s Winter Wonderland, including amusement rides, ice-skating, circus performances, strolling characters and more. Westchester’s Winter Wonderland runs through Saturday, January 4, 2020. Check www.wwinterwonderland.com for more information.

​White Plains New Year's Eve Spectacular
Tue Dec 31st 10:00pm - Jan 2020 12:30am
Main Street & Court Street, Main St & Court St, White Plains, NY
Starting at 10pm on December 31 at Main Street and Court Street there will be an exciting performance by the Hey Nows and a DJ. We will ring in the new year with a ball drop, confetti and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight by Zambelli Fireworks. There are Four Gated Entry Points to the event. Be sure to arrive early to expedite entry and enjoy the evening!  More details can be seen here.
• Main St. at Church St.
• Renaissance Sq. at Williams St.
• Martine Ave. at Mamaroneck Ave.
• Court St. at Martine Ave.*

​Wishing all of our readers a Happy 2020!

The weather outside is frightful. But here are some ideas that can make things more delightful (if you don't mind spending a little money).

Your kids will squeal with delight as they enter these adrenaline pumping indoor arcades, trampoline parks and adventure centers. They're perfect to fill your children's days, and in some cases nights, with activity, action and adventure. Plus, they are loaded with options, making them the perfect destination for total family fun or a winter break drop off (note to self, check out the vacation camp options). Think laser tag, bowing, rock climbing, foam pits and so much more.

Here's our ridiculously awesome list of indoor fun zones for families in Westchester County, NY. Here's to the great indoors!

Trampoline and inflatable bounce centers are just what active kids need for a dose of fun, indoors. Not only can they jump for joy but they can also immerse themselves in fluffy foam pits, play bounce dodge ball & basketball, climb and tackle the ninja warrior course. These bounce parks offer birthday parties, special events (hello, neon nights and character bounces), camps and more so it's not a bad idea to stay in the know. Little ones can attend dedicated toddler times too. Take family time to a new level!

Children and adults can drop-in, run, play, jump and explore at these indoor arcades and entertainment centers. Rides, slides, sports, laser tag, video games, ping pong, climbing, virtual reality gaming, soft play and batting cages are all on the menu here. There's a lot going on! These venues also offer special events, birthday parties and drop off camps (bye mom, see you later). Why not send your kids for an amazing time during  winter break? Ready for some bumper cars?

Preschoolers can flex their little muscles at these junior gyms and play spaces, specifically tailored for them. Enjoy the PlayQuad, slides, soft play, gymnastics classes, parachute time and more with your young ones. It's "mommy and me" at its finest.

Adventure centers like The Play Place, Billy Beez, Play at The Westchester and Sportime USA have open play, while other gyms exclusively offer classes to registrants. In some cases there may be specific open gym times for enrolled families only. It's best to check the location's website for details before heading over.

These play spaces and gyms are also very familiar to many parents because they are very popular for birthday parties! But did you know that some also offer vacation and summer camps, parents' night out and more? So take advantage!

It's all the rage. Little ninjas can now experience innovative "ninja warrior" obstacle courses for fun and fitness. Courses appeal to warriors of all ages and abilities to build confidence and self esteem. Classes, open gyms, camps and birthday parties are all available so find the program and location that is right for your school-aged ninja.  Might your child be the next American Nina Warrior?

These more challenging adventures are perfect for school-age children and teens (and also moms and dads). Indoor rock climbing, circus arts, ropes courses and skydiving can take childrens' confidence to new heights! Some offer parties, events, camps, classes, drop-in and scheduled experiences. Belay on!

Strike up some family fun at the bowling alley! Children can enjoy bowling and arcade games with a swanky vibe under neon lights and music. Bowling alleys are perfect for birthday parties too. Put up the bumpers and everyone is a winner!

Who says summer is the only time for mini golf? Get a group together to play 18 holes of glow golf in the great indoors! Who knows, you may just get a hole in one.

Calling all thrill seekers! Indoor, high-speed electric go-karts are a safe and thrilling experience for children and adults. With a new multilevel race track, Grand Prix is better than ever. Racing enthusiasts may also want to check out the courses just outside the county. Offering kids parties, junior karting and an "arrive and drive" option, these tracks are sure to please drivers big and small. And if that isn't enough, you can take advantage of the arcades and bowling too. Start your engines!

Looking for a full day adventure that's spectacular? Try these amusement parks. While Legoland Westchester caters to a younger crowd, and probably not a full day excursion (maybe combine it with Rockin Jump which is right next door), a trip to the American Dream is an experience worth traveling for.

Did we miss any? If you have a local fun zone we missed and you love, please tell us! Share in the comments below.

Breast milk has often been called "liquid gold" because  it is incredibly beneficial for babies' growth and development and comes only from human moms, who are able to produce it.

Breast milk has benefits for babies, but not every mother is able to produce enough and many parents who adopt children would like them to get this healthy start.

​Fortunately, in Westchester County, breast milk for babies in need is available. The New York Milk Bank is the first comprehensive nonprofit milk bank based in New York State. They collect milk from carefully screened donors, pasteurize it and distribute to infants in New York State and the surrounding area. They currently serve 31 hospitals including these four Westchester hospitals:
Westchester Medical Center, White Plains Hospital, Phelps Hospital, and Northern Westchester Hospital.

So whether you want to give or receive milk, this is an incredible local resource for moms.
​

Milk is being delivered in an usual way--  from women on motorcycles, who are are using their bikes to help moms and babies in need as part of a special program that is the first of its kind in New York. Dubbed the “milk riders,” the women are part of the Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club. When they roll up to homes on their Harley’s carrying donated breast milk, it is cause for a celebration.

“When we had this opportunity to help mothers and babies, we were like, ‘we’ve got to do it,’” Sandra Fleming, of Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club, told News 4.

​“They delivered milk at midnight in the middle of winter to some of our hospitals,” NY Milk Bank Founder Julie Bouchet-Horwitz said. “They were amazing.”

​Babies like Viviana are thriving because of the donated milk. She was born by emergency c-section in May with doctors concerned that she may have suffered brain damage. Her weeks in the NICU made it hard for her mom to keep up her milk supply and now she thanks the “village” of people who helped her daughter.

“She does so well because of so many people,” mother Stephanie Noonan said. “We are just so grateful to everyone who’s involved. The women who donate, the bank and the ‘Milk Riders’ who deliver it.”
The donated breast milk is collected, tested and pasteurized at the New York Milk Bank in Valhalla – the only milk bank in the state.

​The 1,700 women who donated milk to the milk bank all went through a rigorous screening process. Since the milk bank opened three years ago, officials say it has helped thousands of babies – both in hospitals and at home – stay healthy.

The milk bank is always on the look for donations from carefully screened donors to provide breast milk for New York’s infants in need. So if you have a large supply of unused milk that you would like to give to someone who needs it, this is the perfect option.

If you are interested in donating, you must be screened for health concerns and communicable disease and meet the following basic requirements:

• In good health and able to breastfeed, with a surplus of milk.
• No use of nicotine products or regular use of milk enhancing herbs, including fenugreek or blessed thistle.
• Minimal use of medications. Call and they’ll help determine whether a medication is safe for milk donation.
• Willing to undergo a thorough health history screening and get a free blood test for communicable diseases.
• Able to donate at least 100 ounces of milk, unless you are a bereaved mother, in which case we will gladly accept any size donation.

They are able to accept previously frozen milk stored for 3 or 6 months prior to your approval date depending on the type of freezer you are using.

There are two convenient drop off locations in Westchester County:

Westchester Depot
19 Pine Avenue
Ossining, NY

The New York Milk Bank
401 Columbus Avenue
Valhalla, NY

Ready to get started? Fill out this form on their website or call 212-956-MILK (6455).

According to Music Together, "The effects of music on children are magical. Music can be both energizing and calming, and it can enhance bonding and help with transitions."

Music can be enjoyed and learned at any age. In fact, Unicef refers to music as the "The soundtrack to your child's development."  The benefits of music for children are impressive, according to the the United Nations’ organization for children. Music can:

• Improve moods and empower young children by reducing stress levels. Even listening to sad music can be good thanks to its cathartic power, making it easier for children to get in touch with their emotions. 
• Stimulate the formation of brain chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin. When these are released, children are encouraged to share toys, empathize and trust others.
• Boost concentration skills and productivity.
• Improve learning and grades.
• Develop spatial intelligence – laying the ground for an interest in mathematics, engineering, computer science and architecture. 
• Improve vocabulary and creativity. 

With so much positive impact, it is no surprise that Westchester County is rich in music experience and education options for children at any age. Read this Must-Have List of Music Classes, Centers & More for Westchester Kids to find a location and curriculum that is right for your family. Included are classes for infants through adulthood. Start with mommy-and-me classes to bond musically with your baby. In toddlerhood and preschool, introduce them to toddler-friendly instruments and teach them how to make their own music through voice, rhythm and percussion. When they are older, voice and instrument lessons can give them the tools to boost confidence, creativity, patience and perseverance. Plus, group music classes, orchestra and band provide social benefits as well. Are you ready to get started?

Music contributes to child development and school readiness, including language and reading skills. These classes designed for young children will get your little ones rocking! Classes for the youngest musicians will be mommy-and-me while older children can attend drop off instruction. Are you ready to jam?
​

​Belle School of Music
Multiple locations (Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers)- https://belleschool.com/locations.htm
​
​Chloe's Kids
Multiple locations- https://chloeskids.com/classes-%2B-events

Crestwood Music Education Center
453 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY

Groove
158 Larchmont Avenue, Larchmont NY​

Gymboree
450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 

Hoff-Barthelson Music School
25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY

Joanna's N'Bananas
Multiple locations- The Little Red Play, Zen Zone Sensory Gym 
​
Larchmont Music Academy
2089 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY 

Mike Risko
144 Croton Avenue, Ossining, NY

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY

Musical Munchkins
Multiple locations- http://musicalmunchkins.com/Locations.html

Music School of Westchester
1328 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY

Mustard Seed Music Studio
23 Valley Rd. Suite 1, Katonah, NY

RiverArts
Multiple locations

Shake Rattle and Roll Music
Multiple locations- https://shakerattleandrollmusic.com/class-locations/

Sounds Good Westchester (Music Together)
Multiple locations- https://www.soundsgoodwestchester.com/locations.aspx

Starlight Smtarbright Music (Music Together)
78 Garth Road, Scarsdale, NY

Songs for Seeds
Multiple locations (Armonk, Scarsdale, Port Chester)

Tig & Peach
125 Wolfs Lane Pelham, NY

The Little Red Play
17 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Zen Zone Sensory Gym 
2055 Albany Post Road, Croton on Hudson, NY

Pro tip: also check out your local town libraries, recreation departments and community centers like the YMCA and JCC. They may provide free or reasonably priced classes, special events and camps as well.

Learning to play a musical instrument can improve mathematical learning, improve long-term memory, lead to better brain development, and even increase school scores. Playing an instrument is a rich and complex experience. It integrates information from the senses of hearing, vision, and touch. Plus, in a world of overachievers, playing an instrument can actually be a stress reliever! Performances can provide a goal to work toward, confidence and achievement for children.

Singing is an excellent outlet for self-expression. Plus it aids learning, brain and language development. It can also have social benefits if your child participates in signing competitions, concerts or performs with a group.

Each of these music schools have a unique range of offerings including private lessons, group lessons, e-lessons, band, summer or vacation camps, musical theater, singing, concerts, college prep and more. They differ in their  teaching methods and instrument types as well.

​Bedford Music
317 Railroad Avenue, Bedford Hills, NY

​Belle School of Music
Multiple locations (Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers)- https://belleschool.com/locations.htm

Bennett Academy of Performing Arts
225A Main Street, New Rochelle, NY

Choice Music Studios
In home lessons
​
Cortlandt School of Performing Arts
24 Old Albany Post Road, Croton on Hudson, NY

Crestwood Music Education Center
453 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY

Harrison Music School
253 Halstead Ave, Harrison, NY

Hoff-Barthelson Music School
25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY

Joanna's N'Bananas
Multiple locations

Lagond Music School
9 Haven Street, Elmsford, NY 
​
Larchmont Music Academy
2089 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY
​
Mike Risko
144 Croton Avenue, Ossining, NY

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY

RiverArts
Multiple locations

​The Mozartina Musical Arts Conservatory
43 Prospect Avenue, Tarrytown, NY

The Muzic Store Inc.
39 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

NY Piano School
In-home lessons

Whether your child is active, creative, toddler or tween, here are some more ideas to stay entertained indoors in Westchester County, NY! For more indoor fun ideas check out our previous issue #1 and our new Indoor Fun page.

You can also look at our Directory and Blog. Find a full listing of things to do this weekend, recurring events and other upcoming events on our Community Calendar. Events are free to add so we encourage our readers and local businesses to post great family events.

2A East Avenue, Larchmont, NY

404 Irvington Street, Pleasantville, NY

150 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford, NY​

Inspired by the hit television show American Ninja Warrior, Westchester Ninja Warriors offers adjustable obstacles for kids of every skill level regardless of age, skill and size. There is an agility course, swinging ropes, monkey bars, quintuple steps, climbing and warped walls. They believe it is important for kids to gain self–confidence and build self–esteem which is why they have designed courses for all ages and abilities.

They offer classes, camps and parties. Classes include Ninja Tykes, preschool ninjas ages 4-5, Lil’ Ninjas, 6-8 year olds, and Jr. Ninjas, 9-12 year olds.

You can register for open gym online for $25. It is offered at specific times only on Friday afternoon/evening and Saturday at 11:30am-1pm (ages 6-12).

125 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, NY

2055 Albany Post Rd, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

​Do you have a favorite or indoor play space you recommend? Share it with us in the comments below!

Get out your yarmulke, it's time for Hanukkah! This year Hanukkah kicks off the evening of Sunday, December 22nd and ends in the evening of Monday, December 30th. Why not celebrate the festival of lights with your community? Light the menorah, spin the dreidel, experience a gelt drop, indulge on latkes and sufganiyot and hear the story of Hanukkah.

Here's this year's Hanukkah events in Westchester County, NY.

​
​Menorah Building Workshop @ Home Depot
Sun Dec 8th 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Home Depot in the Lumbar isle, 601 Sprain Rd, Yonkers, NY

Chanukah Party!
Wed Dec 11th 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The Field Library Children's Room, 4 Nelson Ave, Peekskill, NY

Night of Light features the world-renowned Maccabeats!
Sun Dec 15th 4:00pm
Temple Shaaray Tefila, 89 Baldwin Rd, Bedford Corners, NY

Chanukah City
Sun Dec 22nd 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Larchmont & Mamaroneck Chocolate Gelt Drop & Giant Menorah Lightning!
Sun Dec 22nd 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Chabad @ 101 Mamaroneck Ave.

Tuckahoe Festive Menorah Lighting
Sun Dec 22nd 5:00pm - 5:30pm
Depot Square, Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

Chanukah Event at the Westchester Mall
Mon Dec 23rd 5:00pm
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Chanukah Gelt Drop & Menorah Lighting in Eastchester
Mon Dec 23rd 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Memorial Park, White Plains Rd & California Rd, Eastchester, NY

Menorah Lighting with Chabad of Yonkers
Mon Dec 23rd 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

Community Menorah Lightings In Briarcliff & Ossining
Thu Dec 26th 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Market Square, Main Street and, Spring St, Ossining, NY

Bronxville Menorah Lighting with Music By Zev
Thu Dec 26th 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Leonard Morange Sq, between the Bronxville Train Station & Palmer Ave., Bronxville, NY 

The Magic Dreidels
Thu Dec 26th - Mon 30th 
White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains, NY

While not announced yet, there will be upcoming public menorah lightings from Chabad in Scarsdale, Edgemont, White Plains, Hartsdale and New Rochelle. Keep an eye on their website for updates.

To learn more about Hanukkah, visit the Chabad of Westchester website.

Is your child artsy? Creative minds will love these local art studios in Westchester County, NY. Whether you have a tween who is passionate about art or a preschooler who loves making slime, this list will give you numerous local options to keep those little (or not so little) fingers busy. 

If you're not a planner then you'll love that many of these places welcome walk-ins. In addition they can provide the perfect place to entertain youngsters since they offer special events, birthday parties, drop off camps (hooray!) and classes as well. And the best part... you won't have to clean up. What will your child's next masterpiece be?

Art Academy of Westchester
​145 Palisades Street, Suite 404, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Bethany Arts Center
40 Somerstown Road, Ossining, NY

Blue Door Arts Center
13 Riverdale Avenue, Yonkers, NY

Bott Shoppe
174 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY

Cedar Lane Arts Center
95 Broadway, Ossining, NY

Katonah Art Center
40-2 Radio Circle Drive Mount Kisco, NY
​
One River Art School
112 S. Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY
2081 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY
​
Pelham Art Center
155 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY

RAD ART School
217 E Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY

Rye Arts Center
51 Milton Road, Rye, NY 

Scribble Art Workshop 
63 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Young at Art
1088 Central Park Avenue, Room 216, Scarsdale, NY

Bott Shoppe
174 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY

Curious On Hudson
77 Tarrytown Rd, Suite GNB, White Plains, NY

Digital Arts Experience
303 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, NY

iD Tech (summer)
Manhattanville College, Purchase, NY
Pace University - Westchester, Pleasantville, NY
Iona College, New Rochelle, NY

Jacob Burns Film Center
364 Manville Rd., Pleasantville, NY

The Picture House
175 Wolfs Lane Pelham, NY

Bead Everything
175 E. Post Rd., White Plains, NY

Painting with a Twist
365 Central Park Ave , Scarsdale, NY 
​
​Muse Paintbar 
Ridge Hill, 265 Market Street, Yonkers, NY
84 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY

A Maze In Pottery
76 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY
​
Clay Art Center
40 Beech Street, Port Chester, NY
​
Creative Corner
7 Addison Street, Larchmont, NY

Fun Craft 
590 Central Park Avenue Scarsdale, NY 
​
Made
118 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 

Plaster Palace Pottery
2005 Palmer Ave., Larchmont, NY

Pottery on Hudson
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, lower level, 2 Revolutionary Road, Ardsley, NY

The Pottery Factory
179 Main Street, Mount Kisco, NY

D.I.Y. Slime
​2A East Avenue, Larchmont, NY

Arts Westchester
31 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY

Ossining Arts Council
​P.O Box 408, Ossining, New York
​
RiverArts
414 Warburton Ave, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Get crafty at a local retail store. Michael's in Hartsdale, Pelham, Port Chester and Yonkers offer classes and events for children. Some require advance registration. Your budding artist can also make a free craft at Lakeshore Learning in Scarsdale every Saturday from 11am-3pm.

Bring out your artistic side at a museum. The Hudson River Museum in Yonkers offers a Family Art Studio craft every Saturday and Sunday. 

What about your town? Many town recreation departments offer art classes, programs and activities. Same goes for  local libraries, which are always FREE!

Lastly, look at community centers, like the YMCA, YWCA and JCC. They typically have a robust offering of classes, events and resources you can sign up for.

Did we miss any? If you have a local art venue we missed and you love, please tell us! Share in the comments below.

​Searching for the perfect gift for your kids this holiday season? Toys are fun for the moment; the gift of quality music education lasts a lifetime. 

Research proves that studying music teaches students lifelong skills. 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. 
​
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 begin their journey to future success.

Starting with its First Notes progressive curriculum for babies and toddlers, parents participate in their child’s early musical and developmental growth. Each First Notes class (Bravo Babies, Toddler Tunes, Pre-school Prodigies) begins with a welcoming “Hello Song” that invites each child to sing by repeating simple sounds. Activities involve moving to music, a variety of hand drums, playing a variety of hand drums, shakers, colorful scarves, and using other music aids to develop the child’s sense of hearing, sight, and touch. These classes are a great way to help build a bond with your child in a fun learning environment.
 
As young students advance from First Notes, they can participate in Pre-K Music Skills classes to introduce children to fundamental music theory concepts in an interactive way. In these classes, students learn in a fun group setting as they begin their music education. These classes help students as they progress into playing an instrument. 
 
The Conservatory’s comprehensive Suzuki program instruction in violin, cello or piano for students ages 4 and up focuses 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.

Piano lessons are a great way to start a child’s introduction to learning to play an instrument. In the Conservatory’s Group Piano classes for beginners in Pre-K through grade 1, students are able to experience playing the piano in a fun and nurturing setting, preparing them for private lessons as they grow.

The Conservatory also offers Group Guitar classes for beginners in Pre-K through grade 1. These introductory classes teach students the basics of this popular instrument, to continue to private lessons and specialize in their favorite style of music, whether rock, jazz or classical. 
​

For young students who love to sing, the Conservatory’s Youth Chorus is the perfect way to experience singing in an ensemble. Singers in grades 1-6explore their vocal capabilities through unison and simple two-part vocal music ranging from folk songs to popular tunes.The chorus performs at the Conservatory and in various community locations.

As students develop skill with their instruments, they are encouraged to join ensembles at the Conservatory to experience making music together. There is something for everyone: rock band, string ensembles, chamber music, jazz groups, vocal ensembles, and more!

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!

Giving your child the gift of music at early stages in their brain development provides a positive, creative outlet for your child with which to grow. 

This December 2019, the Conservatory is offering early registration for group classes and ensembles beginning new sessions in 2020. Visit musicconservatory.org for more information about all the Music Conservatory of Westchester has to offer your family. 

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
914-761-3900
www.musicconservatory.org

Sponsored Post

The holidays are right around the corner and there are so many fantastic events planned for kids and families in Westchester-- Santa, train shows, menorah lightings, the Nutcracker, just to name a few. Many of these events require advance tickets or reservations so be sure to check availability before heading over.

Have an event to add? Please comment below or add it in our free Community Calendar. 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 you go.

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

17th Annual Grand Central Holiday Train Show
Fri Nov 15th - Mon Feb 24th 2020 
Grand Central Terminal, New York Transit Museum Gallery & Store, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY

​NY Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Wed Nov 22nd - Sun Jan 26th 
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY

Greenburgh Nature Center Holiday Train Show
Saturday & Sunday on November 23 & 24, November 30 & December 1, December 7 & 8, and December 14 & 15, 10:00am-4:30pm
Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY
​
Holidays on the Hill at Lasdon Park
Saturday & Sunday on December 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 11:00am - 4:00pm
Lasdon Park, Arboretum & Veterans Memorial, 2610 NY-35, Katonah, NY

Westchester Ballet Company Presents "The Nutcracker"
Fri Dec 13th - Sun 15th 
Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY

The Nutcracker, An Amanda Kupillas Dance Production
Sat Dec 14th 
Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main St, Irvington, NY

Nutcracker Dream
Sun Dec 15th - Sat 28th 
Emelin Theatre for the Performing Arts, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck, NY

The Nutcracker
Sat Dec 21st - Sun 22nd 
The Play Group Theatre, One North Broadway, White Plains, NY

Nutcracker, Short and Sweet
Sat Dec 21st 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St, Peekskill, NY

The Nutcracker Performed by New York Theatre Ballet
Sun Dec 22nd 
Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY
​
Royal Opera House Live’s The Nutcracker
Mon Dec 23rd 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Rd, Pleasantville, NY

8th Annual Westchester All-Stars and Friends Christmas for Veterans Concert
Fri Dec 6th 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St, Peekskill

The Laurie Berkner Band Holiday Celebration
Sat Dec 7th 
Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY

Dickens's 'Christmas Carol'
Sat Dec 7th - Sun 15th 
Philipsburg Manor, 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow

Westchester Ballet Company Presents "The Nutcracker"
Fri Dec 13th - Sun 15th 
Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY

A Christmas Carol
Fri Dec 13th 
The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT

Brunch With Santa & Sing Along
Dec 14th 
Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY

Canadian Brass: Christmas Time Is Here
Sun Dec 15th
The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY​

Santa Visits the Rosen House
Sun Dec 15th
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah

The Magic Dreidels
Thu Dec 26th & Mon 30th
White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains

** Read Holiday Lights: Tree Lightings, Special Events, Menorahs & More In & Near Westchester 2019

Local Holiday Tree Lightings, Menorah Lightings & Holiday Kickoff Events 
Multiple Dates
Multiple Locations, click event name below for details

Pop-Up Holiday Ice Skating Rink
Sat Nov 9th 12:00pm - Sun Jan 5th 2020 6:00pm
Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
​
​Bronx Zoo's Holiday Lights
November 29th–December 31st  and January 3rd–5th
Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard Bronx, NY

Westchester's Winter Wonderland
Friday, November 29th (tree lighting)- January 4th
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY

North Kensico Christmas Light Show
November 24th - January 1st, 5:30pm – 11:00pm 
21 N Kensico Ave, White Plains, NY

Holiday Movie Nights at The Westchester
Dec 6, 13 & 20 6-8pm
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Frozen Themed Holiday Party at Cross County Shopping Center
Sat Dec 7th 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Cross County Shopping, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

The Gabriella Boyd Memorial Foundation " Give with Gabby "
Sat Dec 7th 10:00am - 2:00pm
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle, 79 7th St, New Rochelle, NY

Untermeyer Garden's Grand Holiday Illumination
December 11th
Untermeyer Gardens, 945 N Broadway, Yonkers, NY 
​

It's Santa Photo Time at The Westchester
Fri Nov 1st - Tue Dec 24th 
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Visits with Santa at Ridge Hill
Sat Nov 16th - Tue Dec 24th 
Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Photos with Santa at Cross County Shopping Center
Mon Nov 25th - Tue Dec 24th 
Cross County Shopping, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

The Westchester to Host Weekly Story Time with Mrs. Claus in December
Every Tuesday in December: December 3, 10, 17 and 24 9am-10am
The Westchester Mall, Santa Set, Center Court on Retail Level 1, 125 Westchester Avenue, White Plains, NY

Meet Santa at the Boyce Thompson Center
Sat Dec 7th 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Boyce Thompson Center, 1086 North Broadway, Yonkers, NY

Breakfast with Santa at The Westchester
Dec 7th & 14th 8:30am-10am
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Pet Photos with Santa at The Westchester
Dec 8th & 15th
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Stew Leonard's Holiday Events- Christmas Tree Hunt & Meals with Santa (multiple dates)
Dec 11th, 14th & 15th 
Stew Leonard's, 1 Stew Leonard Dr, Yonkers, NY

Brunch With Santa
Sat Dec 14th 
Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY

Breakfast with Santa at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Sun Dec 15th 11:00am - 2:00pm
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, 845 Canal St, Stamford, CT

Santa Visits the Rosen House
Sun Dec 15th 12:00pm & 3:00pm
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY

Menorah Building Workshop @ Home Depot
Sun Dec 8th 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Home Depot in the Lumbar isle, 601 Sprain Rd, Yonkers, NY

Chanukah Party!
Wed Dec 11th 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The Field Library Children's Room, 4 Nelson Ave, Peekskill, NY

Night of Light features the world-renowned Maccabeats!
Sun Dec 15th 4:00pm
Temple Shaaray Tefila, 89 Baldwin Rd, Bedford Corners, NY

Chanukah City
Sun Dec 22nd 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

Tuckahoe Festive Menorah Lighting
Sun Dec 22nd 5:00pm - 5:30pm
Depot Square, Depot Square, Tuckahoe, NY

Chanukah Event at the Westchester Mall
Mon Dec 23rd 5:00pm
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY

Chanukah Gelt Drop & Menorah Lighting in Eastchester
Mon Dec 23rd 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Memorial Park, White Plains Rd & California Rd, Eastchester, NY

Menorah Lighting with Chabad of Yonkers
Mon Dec 23rd 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY

Community Menorah Lightings In Briarcliff & Ossining
Thu Dec 26th 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Market Square, Main Street and, Spring St, Ossining, NY

Bronxville Menorah Lighting with Music By Zev
Thu Dec 26th 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Leonard Morange Sq, between the Bronxville Train Station & Palmer Ave., Bronxville, NY 

The Magic Dreidels
Thu Dec 26th - Mon 30th 
White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Pl, White Plains, NY

While not announced yet, there will be upcoming public menorah lightings from Chabad in Scarsdale, Edgemont, White Plains, Hartsdale and New Rochelle. Keep an eye on their website for updates.