Now that the holiday season is officially here, the festivities ramp up with tons of family events. This week we’re highlighting the ever-popular Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ceremony, the return of “Mother Africa” at the New Victory Theater, and “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” at The United Palace. Other not-to-be-missed happenings include a performance of “Peter & the Wolf” with Isaac Mizrahi at the Guggenheim Museum, Wintercon 2016, and Dan Zanes’ annual Holiday Sing-A-Long at City Winery. Happy Monday!
Wednesday, November 30
84th Annual Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
Rockefeller Center
7-9pm
Watched by revelers all over the world, the most famous Christmas tree ever is getting all lit up! Thousands will crowd the sidewalks of Rockefeller Center to see this 94-foot tall Norway spruce tree with 50,000 bulbs (over five miles of lights) and a Swarovski crystal star. This year’s performers include Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, Tori Kelly, Dolly Parton, Josh Groban, and others. Be sure to arrive early to ensure a good view. You can also catch the lighting live on NBC from 7-9pm. The tree will be on display through Saturday, January 7, 2017. This event is free.
Beginning Friday, December 2
“Mother Africa: My Home”
New Victory Theater
Various times
The entire New Victory Theater audience will be dancing to the beat of Circus der Sinne’s cultural music this winter in “Mother Africa: My Home.” The Drama Desk-nominated show returns to NYC to the delight of families everywhere. These circus performances will include various cultural elements from countries around the world such as Tanzania, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and the Ivory Coast. It’s sure to be educational and enjoyable for the whole family. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Runs select dates through Sunday, January 1, 2017. Tickets start at $20.
Saturday, December 3
“The Hip Hop Nutcracker”
The United Palace
2pm & 7pm
This Saturday the classic holiday ballet will get a modern makeover at The United Palace in Washington Heights. A DJ and an electric violinist will update Tchaikovsky’s original score while hip hop dancers take the stage during this adaptation geared for the 21st century. Plus the “King of Rap,” Kurtis Blow, will return as the show’s special guest. Tickets start at $10. Doors open at 1pm for the 2pm show and 6pm for the 7pm show.
Saturday, December 3-Sunday, December 4
Wintercon 2016
Resorts World Casino NY
Saturday: 10:30am-8pm; Sunday: 10:30am-5pm
Whether you’ve dreamed of showing off your inner superhero or would simply like a more intimate setting in which to meet your favorite stars, authors, and comic book celebrities, then make sure you attend this year’s Wintercon! With an artist alley, costume contests, kid events and even an after-party, this two-day event is sure to brighten up your holiday season! Tickets start at $24.99 for adults and $10 for children ages 2-12.
“Peter & the Wolf”
The Guggenheim Museum
2:30pm & 4pm
Join the Guggenheim for its annual holiday presentation of Sergei Prokofiev’s orchestral piece, “Peter & the Wolf.” Fashion designer extraordinaire Isaac Mizrahi will narrate this half-hour performance by Ensemble Signal. Originally composed to teach children about the instruments of the orchestra, “Peter & the Wolf” is a fantastic introduction to the world of classical music. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Tickets are $40. This event will also take place Friday, December 9-Sunday, December 11.
Sunday, December 4
6th Annual Holiday Sing-A-Long with Dan Zanes & Friends
City Winery
11am-12:30pm
Dan Zanes’ annual Holiday Sing-A-Long is back! This year Zanes is inviting some of his musical friends to City Winery in SoHo for his sixth annual holiday show. The Grammy award-winning children’s singer blends folk, early rock, and English music hall numbers together to create his unique, kid-friendly songs that even grown-ups will love. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 10am.
