Yay for May! Grab the fam this week and hit one of our carefully curated picks. Whatever you’re in the mood for,we have something for everyone. A unique circus, a theatrical adaptation of a classic children’s book, a famous Grimm tale come to life, a Mother’s Day celebration, and a Japan Day fest await you. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mamas out there! And for more ideas for Mother’s Day fun, check out our activity round-up here!
Beginning Tuesday, May 3
St. Ann’s Warehouse & NoFit State: “Bianco”
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Various times
The circus is coming to Brooklyn Bridge Park! St. Ann’s Warehouse is joining forces with NoFit State for “Bianco,” a one-of-a-kind circus experience. Instead of taking place in front of a static audience, the circus unfolds above, behind, and on all sides of the performance space. Head to Brooklyn Bridge Plaza to explore “the magic of human balance and counter balance” in aerial performances and more! Runs Tuesdays through Sundays through Sunday, May 29. Tickets start at $35.
Thursday, May 5-Sunday, May 8
“Where the Wild Things Are”
NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Various times
Sail along with Max to the land of the Wild Things, where one of the most beloved modern children’s tales is brought to life! Adapted from the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak,”Where the Wild Things Are” comes to the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts as an intimate, interactive live performance. Your kids will be enthralled as Max’s bedroom is transformed into a rolling ocean or a leafy forest, and you will have the chance to help the Wild Things bring Max safely home! Plus, the show is perfect for little ones’ attention spans at just one hour in length. Recommended for ages 3 through 7. Tickets are $25.
Beginning Friday, May 6
“The Pied Piper”
New Victory Theater
Various times
Italy’s Carlo Colla & Sons Marionette Company will perform its production of “The Pied Piper” starting this Friday at the New Victory Theater. The Brothers Grimm tale of the mysterious man with a flute will be brought to life with an astounding array of more than 120 stringed puppets and 300 rat marionettes. This 90-minute production is perfect for families with children ages 7 and up. Runs weekends through Sunday, May 15. Tickets start at $15.
Saturday, May 7-Sunday, May 8
Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party
New York Botanical Garden
10am-6pm
Celebrate Mother’s Day in a beautiful natural setting during the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party. Enjoy live music, games, garden tours and walks, picnicking, crafts, a delicious brunch or supper (tickets sold separately) and more. Free with an All-Garden pass.
Sunday, May 8
10th Annual Japan Day
Central Park
9:30am-4:30pm
Celebrate Japan Day in Central Park this Sunday! All are invited to spend the day exploring Japanese culture through food, arts and crafts, technology, and much more. Not-to-be-missed activities include Japanese calligraphy workshops, a Hello Kitty photo booth, Kabuki-style face painting, “yo-yo” fishing, and origami making. Admission is free.