Brooklyn is bursting with holiday cheer this week! Head to City Point for Bklyn Holiday-Topia, with FREE Santa family photos, holiday crafts, and even a Pet Night this week for your four-legged friends. More highlights of the week include the 20 Years of JOY holiday fest at Atlantic Terminal in Downtown Brooklyn, the lighting of Brooklyn’s largest menorah and a Chanukah concert at Grand Army Plaza, and plenty of neighborhood tree lightings. Plus, lots of opportunities to meet Santa, family-friendly Chanukah events, and festive caroling spreading across the borough.
For all our holiday guides in one place, check out Brooklyn Holiday 101 for Families!
Our new Events Calendar is here featuring convenient filters by category, location, ages, dates and more to make your Brooklyn social life as fun and meaningful as possible.
Have you checked out CONNECT – where families find what matters? Whether you are looking for a preschool, face painter, speech therapist, writing tutor, camp, meal delivery service, child therapist or piano teacher, CONNECT is the one-stop solution for parents, easy to navigate and curated!
MONDAY
Recycled Sounds at Pacific Library | Downtown Brooklyn
Monday, December 8 | 10:45-11:20am
The Recycled Sounds program by percussionist Kevin Nathaniel and Rich Stein is an exciting music-filled journey with jams stories, dance and call-and response that engage the audience in the musical possibilities of items that we might usually discard.
Limited Free Tickets for Roebling Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Limited FREE tickets for local residents (with valid NYC ID) on a first-come, first-served basis | Mondays–Thursdays | 2-4pm, 4:30-6:30pm, 7-9pm
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s ice skating rink has returned to Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, offering skating beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. NYC local residents can claim limited quantity of free tickets in-person offered during sessions one, two, and three on Mondays-Thursdays (Session 1: 2-4pm, Session 2: 4:30-6:30pm, Session 3: 7-9pm). Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve walk-up basis, with valid ID to show residency.
Carey Gardens Holiday Celebration | Coney Island
Monday, December 8 | 5:30-6:30pm
Join us for a holiday celebration at Carey Gardens Cornerstone, with a Christmas Tree Lighting, Menorah Lighting, and Kinara Lighting ceremonies. There will be treats, hot chocolate, caroling, music, and more!
Spread Love Brooklyn: Winter Clothing Drive at Time Out Market | DUMBO
Ongoing through Friday, December 26
Kindly drop off your new or gently-used winter coats and accessories for neighbors in need to designated drop boxes at Time Out Market NY on the 1st and 5th floor. We are looking for winter jackets (puffy, no dress coats), hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves for all ages and sizes! Donations must be washed and free of rips, stains, and other visible damage.
Atlantic Ave Holiday Toy Drive | Brooklyn Heights & Boerum Hill
Ongoing through December 11
The AALDC Annual Toy Drive provides toys and donations to disadvantaged children and families at local homeless shelters. Below are the drop-off sites for this year’s drive. You can also drop off at the AALDC office at 494 Atlantic Avenue. Purchase a toy from the wishlist here, and help them raise funds here!
Donate to District 33 Toy Donation Drive | Brooklyn Heights, Boerum Hill & Greenpoint
Ongoing through December 13
Donate to children at District 33’s five highest-need schools. You can drop off new, unwrapped toys for ages 5-13 at one of the following locations:
- Lincoln Restler’s Office at 410 Atlantic Avenue | Boerum Hill | Monday–Friday through December 12 | 9am-5pm
- St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church* (157 Montague Street) | Brooklyn Heights | Monday–Friday through December 12 | 8am-5pm | *Or shop online and ship directly to St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church: just write “Toy Drive” in the “to” line.
- Borough Hall Greenmarket | Brooklyn Heights | Saturday, December 13 | 9am-12pm
TUESDAY
Free Music Show with Hopalong Andrew at Whole Foods | Gowanus
Tuesdays | 10am
Hopalong Andrew’s weekly shows at Whole Foods are FREE! Make sure to double check in his Instagram the morning of to make sure class has not been cancelled for any reason.
Limited Free Tickets for Roebling Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Limited FREE tickets for local residents (with valid NYC ID) on a first-come, first-served basis | Mondays–Thursdays | 2-4pm, 4:30-6:30pm, 7-9pm
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s ice skating rink has returned to Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, offering skating beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. NYC local residents can claim limited quantity of free tickets in-person offered during sessions one, two, and three on Mondays-Thursdays (Session 1: 2-4pm, Session 2: 4:30-6:30pm, Session 3: 7-9pm). Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve walk-up basis, with valid ID to show residency.
New Mom Meet Up at Fontainhas | DUMBO
Tuesdays | 4:30-6:00pm
Bring your baby to Fontainhas for some cozy chai and hangs with other new moms. Hosted every week by the new mom pop-up POST.
Merry Melodies: Live Holiday Music at Atlantic Terminal Mall | Downtown Brooklyn
Tuesday, December 9 | 5:00-6:30pm
Celebrate the season with live performances from the Brooklyn Music School’s Youth Orchestra. Enjoy holiday classics and festive tunes as you shop the pop-up market.
A Christmas Carol: Live Radio Play, presented by MAD Company at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Tuesday, December 9 | 5:00-6:30pm | Ages +
This December, ring in the holiday season with Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play, presented by MAD Company! Rediscover the haunting yet heartwarming world of Ebenezer Scrooge as a small cast of actors, accompanied by a live foley artist, conjure Dickens’s timeless tale right before your eyes and ears.
Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade at Knickerbocker Plaza | Bushwick
Monday, December 8 | 5-7pm
Meet at Knickerbocker Plaza for holiday festivities happening from 5 to 7pm. The parade to Maria Hernandez Park starts at 6:30pm! There will be live music, hot chocolate, and more holiday fun.
WEDNESDAY
Captain Jam and Funikijam at Pacific Library | Downtown Brooklyn
Wednesday, December 10 | 10:45-11:30am | Ages 0-5
Captain Jam and his group of talented singers and dancers promote music. They have the audience dancing and moving their feet.
Joy to the Borough: Sixth Annual Toy Drive and Giveaway at the Brooklyn Museum | Prospect Heights
Drop off toys through December 13 | Toy Giveaway on Sunday, December 14, 11am-2pm
Donate to the Brooklyn Museum’s annual toy drive! Through December 13, stop by the Admissions Desk in the lobby to drop off new, unwrapped toys for children ages 0–14 in the designated bins. All who donate can enjoy 20% off in the Shop as a gesture of thanks. On Sunday, December 14, families will be invited to pick up toys along with clothing, coloring books, and other holiday gifts for children (while supplies last). During the giveaway, there will be a festive lineup of art-making activities and seasonal fun for all ages. Afterward, any remaining toys will be donated to local family shelters.
Limited Free Tickets for Roebling Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Limited FREE tickets for local residents (with valid NYC ID) on a first-come, first-served basis | Mondays–Thursdays | 2-4pm, 4:30-6:30pm, 7-9pm
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s ice skating rink has returned to Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, offering skating beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. NYC local residents can claim limited quantity of free tickets in-person offered during sessions one, two, and three on Mondays-Thursdays (Session 1: 2-4pm, Session 2: 4:30-6:30pm, Session 3: 7-9pm). Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve walk-up basis, with valid ID to show residency.
Free Admission at New York Aquarium | Coney Island
Wednesdays | 3-6pm | Reserve tickets here; free tickets are made available at 3pm the Monday before
Take advantage of free admission hours at the New York Aquarium form 3-6pm on Wednesdays. Note that advance timed tickets are required (max of 4 per group); the Wednesday Afternoon Ticket Store will open on Monday at 3:00 pm for that Wednesday’s reservations.
Kaiser Park Tree Lighting | Coney Island
Wednesday, December 10 | 6-8pm
Join for Kaiser Park’s tree lighting, with Santa, music and performances from The Guild for Exceptional Children, Xaverian Choir and Band, Narrows Community Theater, and NIA Carolers.
THURSDAY
Bklyn Holiday-Topia: Pet Night at City Point | Downtown Brooklyn
Thursday, December 11 | 6-8pm | RSVP here
Holiday photos for furry friends and their families (must arrive with pet). This special evening is designed to capture joyful moments between pets and their people!
Prospect Park Stroller Walk | Prospect Park
Thursdays | 10am-12pm | RSVP here
Calling all parents and caregivers with children! Join for a leisurely stroll along Prospect Park’s waterways.
Community Access Thursdays at Brooklyn Children’s Museum | Crown Heights
Thursdays | 2-5pm | Reserve here
Play at Brooklyn Children’s Museum for FREE during Community Access Thursdays, every Thursday afternoon from 2-5pm! Explore some of their most-loved exhibits, and check out the Mobilab Exhibit, which invites kids to build their own vehicles and put them to the test on ramps and tracks.
Imagination with Bridges: a Pan-Afrikan Arts Movement at Brooklyn Children’s Museum | Crown Heights
Thursday, December 11 | 3:00-3:45pm
Exercise your imagination in this interactive storytelling program. Create stories with us as we use props, costumes, sounds, and images to bring our imagination to life.
After School Movie: The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992) at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Thursday, December 11 | 3:30-5:00pm | Ages 5+
After School Movie at Brooklyn Heights Library! This week’s movie: “The Muppets Christmas Carol” (1992), rated G. Run time: 1 hour and 25 minutes. No registration required; attendance limited by room capacity.
Storytime with Santa & Friends at Atlantic Terminal Mall | Downtown Brooklyn
Thursday, December 11 | 5-8pm
Space is limited! Children experiencing hardship are prioritized at this event. Remaining slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Everyone must register with Ms. Claus: 646-852-4466. This is a fun evening filled with Holiday Storytelling, Dancing, Singing, and Holiday Treats!
20 Years of JOY at Atlantic Terminal | Downtown Brooklyn
Thursday, December 11 | 5-7pm
Atlantic Terminal Mall is hosting a holiday celebration featuring storytime with Santa, a book giveaway in partnership with Brooklyn Book Bodega, seasonal face painting, free photos with Santa, hot chocolate giveaway, Pixie Pods pop-up with dancing and activities, a DJ spinning fun holiday music and more.
Stargazing at Marsha P. Johnson State Park | Williamsburg
Thursday, December 11 | 6-7pm
Did you know you can see stars in Brooklyn? Learn about the winter constellations and gaze at the night sky with us! All ages.
Limited Free Tickets for Roebling Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Limited FREE tickets for local residents (with valid NYC ID) on a first-come, first-served basis | Mondays–Thursdays | 2-4pm, 4:30-6:30pm, 7-9pm
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s ice skating rink has returned to Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, offering skating beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. NYC local residents can claim limited quantity of free tickets in-person offered during sessions one, two, and three on Mondays-Thursdays (Session 1: 2-4pm, Session 2: 4:30-6:30pm, Session 3: 7-9pm). Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve walk-up basis, with valid ID to show residency.
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursdays | 3-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Story Time at Fontainhas | DUMBO
Thursdays | 4:30-5:30pm
Come to Fontainhas every Thursday at 4:30pm for a free story time and singing! Open to all. Bring your little ones for a fun story, enjoy a glass of chai or wine, and meet other parents!
FRIDAY
Tutu School & Aviva and Friends Present: The Nutcracker Toddler Ballet Class at Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Limited Free Tickets for Roebling Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Limited FREE tickets for local residents (with valid NYC ID) on a first-come, first-served basis | Fridays | 12:30-2:30, 3-5pm, 5:30-7:30pm
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s ice skating rink has returned to Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, offering skating beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. NYC local residents can claim limited quantity of free tickets in-person offered during sessions two, three, four on Fridays. (Session 2: 12:30-2:30pm, Session 3: 3-5pm, Session 4: 5:30-7:30pm). Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve walk-up basis, with valid ID to show residency. Note: Session 1 on Fridays (10am-12pm) is reserved for field trips. If not booked, will be opened for general public purchase.
Red Hook Pinball Museum | Red Hook
Fridays | 1-10pm
With a new location at 362 Van Brunt Street, the Red Hook Pinball Museum is now open for free play (with donations accepted) every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1-10pm! It’s NYC’s only vintage pinball museum, with games from 1871-1971, and you can play on the first pinball machine ever made!
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Fridays | 3-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Aviva and Friends Present: The Sunny Songsters Xtra Special Holiday Special at Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Friday, December 12 | 4:00-4:45pm | Ages 2-5 | Registration will open 48 hours in advance
Happy Holidays! A gift to you from the Sunny Songsters! Cozy up at home and celebrate the Brooklyn Public Library with your favorite Sunny originals, characters, and music from around the globe!
Teen Winter Karaoke at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Friday, December 12 | 4-5pm | For teens
Today we will celebrate winter with a karaoke celebration! Hot Chocolate will be served along with some giveaways and snacks.
Fort Hamilton Tree Lighting & Holiday Market in Bay Ridge
Friday, December 12 | Holiday Market begins at 4pm | Tree lighting at 5:30pm | Registration required
Fort Hamilton is hosting their annual Holiday Market & Tree Lighting Spectacular! Stroll through their charming marketplace filled with unique gifts and treats, then join for their tree lighting ceremony.
Holiday Craft Fair at St. Philip’s Church | Dyker Heights
Friday, December 12 | 4-9pm
Join for a holiday craft fair at St. Philip’s Church, with handmade ornaments, jewelry, edible goods, holiday decorations, and more. There will be a special tree lighting ceremony on Friday night, plus hot chocolate, and an appearance from Santa!
Celebrando El Solsticio | Prospect Park
Friday, December 12 | 5:15-6:15pm | RSVP here
Join One World Project in Prospect Park between Vanderbilt Playground and the Loop. Bring a lantern and be ready to sing! At the 16th Street entrance, we will have some oat-milk hot chocolate together!
SATURDAY
Bklyn Holiday-Topia at City Point | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturday, December 13 | 11am-3pm | RSVP here
Join Brooklyn Bridge Parents and City Point for BKLYN Holiday-Topia in December — a festive celebration featuring free Santa family photos, holiday crafts, and merry moments for everyone. All activities will be free and best for all ages.
Donate to District 33 Toy Donation Drive at Borough Hall Greenmarket | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, December 13 | 9am-12pm
Donate to children at District 33’s five highest-need schools. You can drop off new, unwrapped toys for ages 5-13 at the Borough Hall farmer’s market!
parkrun | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturdays | 9am | Sign up here
parkrun is a free, worldwide, weekly event where people of all ages and abilities walk, jog, run, or volunteer in a 5k event on Saturday mornings–in Brooklyn, you can join every week in Brooklyn Bridge Park! Families register onlineand receive a barcode which will record their time. All ages are welcome, and there is a coffee and catch-up after each run!
Winter Tree Identification Walk | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturday, December 13 | 10-11am
What are trees doing in the winter, and how can we identify them without their leaves? Observe buds, bark, branches, and bounty while exploring the diverse trees living at Brooklyn Bridge Park with this expert-led walk. First come-first served, 30 people maximum. Meets at the Pier 1 Pavillion, and walks around Pier 1.
Introduction to Birdwatching Outings | Prospect Park
Saturdays | 10am-12pm | Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Walks begin at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. No registration required. Children under 12 must be with an adult. Bring binoculars if available.
Volunteer Day: Leaf No Trace | Fort Greene Park
Saturday, December 13 | 10am-12pm | Sign up here
Join us for Leaf No Trace, to collect leaves en masse. Leaves will be bagged and stored in a leaf corral in the park where they will be allowed to slowly break down over the winter and early Spring months to turn into a nutrient-rich leaf mould.
Winter Sidewalk Stroll on 3rd Avenue | Bay Ridge
Saturday, December 13 | 10am-2pm
Join the Merchants of 3rd Avenue in Bay Ridge for a lineup of holiday festivities while you shop!
- Trolley | 10am-2pm
- The Grinch | 11am-2pm | The Green Spa
- Santa | 12-3pm | Charmed by JLM
Photos with Santa | Bushwick
Saturday, December 13 | Begins at 11am | RSVP here
Betances Health Center will host a special Santa meet and greet at 1427 Broadway in Bushwick on December 13. Photos will be captured by a professional photographer, and there will be Christmas decor, lights, and music to enjoy.
Outdoor Skills: Winter Survival 101 | Fort Greene Park
Saturday, December 13 | 11am-12pm
Learn the basic skills of outdoor survival, including fire making, shelter building and water collection, among other skills.
Holiday Caroling on Atlantic Avenue | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, December 13 | 11am-12pm
Stroll, shop, and enjoy music from a quartet of carolers at local businesses. On December 13, caroling will take place at Sahadi’s, Darling, and Salter House.
Free Children’s Events at Dekalb Market Hall | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturdays | 11am-2pm
Every weekend, Dekalb Market Hall (downstairs at City Point) offers balloon animals, face painting, and more! Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
Avenues Winter Market at Sunset Park Avenues Elementary | Sunset Park
Saturday, December 13 | 11am-3pm
Join for P.S. 516’s community event, with food, raffles, clothing, crafts, toys, baked goods, and more!
Holiday Craft Fair at Japan Village | Industry City
Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14 | 11am-5pm
Explore beautiful handcrafted pottery, natural incense, clothing, spices (shichimi), accessories, and more at Japan Village!
Saturday, December 13 | 11am-5pm
Join City League Coffee Roasters for their annual Holiday Market inside The Whale Building in Sunset Park. Shop local, sip coffee (or something stronger from the bar sponsored by Sixpoint Brewery), browse vinyl and enjoy good music (curated by Maker Park Radio) while supporting dozens of Brooklyn-based makers and entrepreneurs. The free event will feature a diverse mix of handmade goods, art, apparel, homewares, food, and more!
Holiday Caroling at Fowler Square | Fort Greene
Saturday, December 13 | 12-3pm
Come spread holiday cheer at Fowler Square (Fulton & Lafayette). There will be treats, plus bring a warm coat to donate to New York Cares!
Little Caribbean Holiday Market | Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Saturday, December 13 | 12-5pm
Shop local brands, art, food & culture in the heart of Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean! Discover and support Caribbean and diasporic artisans offering handcrafted gifts, fashion, art, home décor, and island-inspired treats — from black cake and sorrelto pepper sauces, spices, accessories, handmade jewelry, and more. Plus, enjoy live DJs, cultural performances, food tastings, and family-friendly activities that capture the spirit, flavor, and rhythm of the season. Located at WE Plaza (Washington Ave & Empire Blvd).
Red Hook Holiday Market at Hook Studios | Red Hook
Saturday, December 13 | 12-6pm
Organized by Brooklyn Pop-Up, Red Hook’s second annual Holiday Maker’s Market will take place at Hook Studios on Dikeman Street. Made in NYC will be joining along with 65+ artists, artisans, and makers. There will also be crafts, a DJ, ornament making, and more!
Music for Autism Presents: Cellists Leland Ko & Loa Cho at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, December 13 | 1-2pm
Join for a free, interactive, in-person, autism-friendly concert by Chinese-Canadian cellist Leland Ko.
Meet Santa at Güeros & The Dram Shop | Park Slope
Saturday, December 13 | 1-2pm at Güeros | 4-5pm at The Dram Shop
Santa is visiting Güeros and Dram Shop on Saturday, December 13th! Bring your kiddos to meet him from 1-2pm at Güeros and 4-5pm at Dram Shop.
Events for Youth & Families: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Central Library | Prospect Heights
Saturday, December 13 | 1-2pm
Join for a musical production presented by Sunrise Theatre, Co.
Saturday Ornament Painting at Michaels | Cobble Hill
Saturday, December 13 | 1-3pm
Join us in-store for a fun painting event! Take a step back from your holiday chaos and come relax with us and paint a wooden ornament. We will also have some sweet treats for you to enjoy.
Festivity Weekends on Atlantic Avenue | Boerum Hill & Cobble Hill
December 13, 14 & 20 | 1-3pm
Santa will walk down Atlantic Avenue to take pictures and spread holiday cheer. Enjoy live performances from Triad Bass throughout the day, enjoy the festive window displays, and get a free reusable ‘Shop & Dine Atlantic Ave’ tote bag!
Winter Wonderland at MADE Bush Terminal | Sunset Park
Saturday, December 13 | 1-4pm
Join for toys and groceries, health screenings, community services, and music and activities!
Holiday Market Pop-Up and Photos with Santa at Moore Street Market | Williamsburg
Saturday, December 13 | 1-4pm
Visit Moore Street Market for holiday fun all month long, including photo ops with Santa on December 13!
Holiday Character Meet and Greet at Time Out Market | DUMBO
December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 | 1-5pm
Bring the family and snap photos with kids’ characters. Perfect for families, little ones, and anyone ready for holiday cheer! Characters appearing throughout December include the Gingerbread Man, Olaf/Frozen Snowman, Holiday Mickey Mouse, Bluey, the full Paw Patrol cast, Charlie Brown, a Minion, a Reindeer, a Giant Festive Snowman, Santa, a Mascot Handler Elf, an Elf (not a mascot costume), and the Grinch (with staggered appearances and a full-day upgrade available).
Red Hook Pinball Museum | Red Hook
Saturdays | 1-10pm
With a new location at 362 Van Brunt Street, the Red Hook Pinball Museum is now open for free play (with donations accepted) every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1-10pm! It’s NYC’s only vintage pinball museum, with games from 1871-1971, and you can play on the first pinball machine ever made!
Smile + Breathe Free Yoga Events Sponsored by Leaf Dental | DUMBO
Saturday, December 13 | 1:15-2:15pm
Join us for Smile + Breathe, a feel-good, all-levels yoga class focused on whole-body wellness. This 60-minute is led by Abhaya’s skilled instructors and hosted in partnership with Leaf Dental. After class, stick around for free goodie bags curated by Leaf Dental. All levels welcome. Mats and props provided.
Here & Now Holiday Concert: Bargemusic at The Boathouse at Pier 5 | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturdays | 2pm
Join for a free holiday concert with Celia Daggy, Scott Wheeler, and PianoFORTE ensemble.
Smith Street Sparkle Tree Lighting in Boerum Hill
Saturday, December 13 | 4-6pm
The Merchants of Smith St. (MOSS) will be holding a tree lighting ceremony that includes sips, snacks, and carolers.
Holiday Craft Fair at St. Philip’s Church | Dyker Heights
Saturday, December 13 | 4-9pm
Join for a holiday craft fair at St. Philip’s Church, with handmade ornaments, jewelry, edible goods, holiday decorations, and more. There will be a special tree lighting ceremony on Friday night, plus hot chocolate, and an appearance from Santa!
Urban Park Rangers: Astronomy — Geminids Meteor Shower | Prospect Park
Saturday, December 13 | 4-9pm
Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history, and folklore of the universe. The Geminids is one of the best meteor showers in the heavens, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. Astronomy programs feature the use of telescopes and binoculars to observe specific astronomical events. Grab a blanket, a warm jacket, and get ready to gaze upwards to watch the showers.
SUNDAY
Bklyn Holiday-Topia: Dreidel Making and Free Latkes at City Point | Downtown Brooklyn
Sunday, December 14 | 11am-3pm | RSVP here
Join us for BKLYN Holiday-Topia at City Point! On Sunday, December 14, there will be free dreidel decorating and more Chanukah crafts for the whole family! Plus, photos with Diverse Santa, face painting, LEGO building, and more!
Christmas Bird Count | Governors Island
Sunday, December 14 | 10am
The annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the nation’s longest-running Community-Science bird project. Anyone can participate, even beginner birders! This family-friendly activity is a great way to explore our City’s natural areas while contributing to valuable scientific research, and we encourage all to participate!
Free Kid’s Holiday Concert with Suzi Shelton and Special Guest Esther Crow at Time Out Market | DUMBO
Sunday, December 14 | 10:15-11:00am
Come boogie at this free concert for toddlers and babies featuring the one and only Suzi Shelton with Special Guest Esther Crow.
Hanukkah Hangout with PJ Library and Sprout Brooklyn | Prospect Heights
Sunday, December 14 | 10am-12pm | Ages 0-5 | FREE
Luria Academy, PJ Library, Sprout Brooklyn, and Tkiya will welcome families on December 14 for Hanukah crafts, stories, snacks and songs! This event will be geared towards children aged 0-5, but the whole family is invited to join.
Hanukah Celebration at JCC Brooklyn | Windsor Terrace
Sunday, December 14 | 10am-12pm | FREE
Join JCC Brooklyn Windsor Terrace for a joyful Hanukkah celebration! Enjoy music, fun activities, and delicious treats like latkes and sufganiyot as we celebrate the Festival of Lights together.
New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Nostalgia Rides | Manhattan
Every Sunday in December from 10am-5pm | FREE with subway fare
This holiday season, the New York Transit Museum and MTA New York City Transit continue the annual tradition of Holiday Nostalgia Rides aboard our vintage 1930s train cars. Hop aboard and celebrate the magic of New York City during the holidays. Find departure times and station stops here.
Joy to the Borough: Sixth Annual Toy Drive and Giveaway at the Brooklyn Museum | Prospect Heights
Drop off toys through December 13 | Toy Giveaway on Sunday, December 14, 11am-2pm
On Sunday, December 14, families are invited to pick up toys along with clothing, coloring books, and other holiday gifts for children (while supplies last). During the giveaway, there will be a festive lineup of art-making activities and seasonal fun for all ages. Afterward, any remaining toys will be donated to local family shelters.
Hanukkah Event at Kings Bay Y | Sheepshead Bay
Sunday, December 14 | 11am-2pm | Ages 1-10
Join for a day full of fun with inflatable rides, live performances, raffles, carnival games, face painting, arts and crafts stations, photo booths, and some exciting surprises that are sure to light up the Festival of Lights!
Free Children’s Events at Dekalb Market Hall | Downtown Brooklyn
Sundays | 11am-2pm
Every weekend, Dekalb Market Hall (downstairs at City Point) offers balloon animals, face painting, and more! Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
PS 102 Winter Market | Bay Ridge
Sunday, December 14 | 11am-3pm
Join for a fun, community-focused winter market at PS 102 in Bay Ridge! There will be artisans, makers, bakers, and more!
Holiday Craft Fair at Japan Village | Industry City
Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14 | 11am-5pm
Explore beautiful handcrafted pottery, natural incense, clothing, spices (shichimi), accessories, and more at Japan Village!
Donut Party at Shorefront YM-YWHA | Coney Island
Sunday, December 14 | 12-3pm
Join for a fun-filled day packed with delicious treats, fun activities and lots of surprises for the whole family! Enjoy activities, gifts, dancing and music, arts and crafts, a photo booth, and a performance!
Red Hook Holiday Market at Hook Studios | Red Hook
Sunday, December 14 | 12-6pm
Organized by Brooklyn Pop-Up, Red Hook’s second annual Holiday Maker’s Market will take place at Hook Studios on Dikeman Street. Made in NYC will be joining along with 65+ artists, artisans, and makers. There will also be crafts, a DJ, ornament making, and more!
Nature’s Workshop: Introduction to Woodworking | Fort Greene Park
Sunday, December 14 | 1-2pm | Ages 12+
Learn techniques of traditional wood crafting with the Urban Park Rangers.
Festivity Weekends on Atlantic Avenue | Boerum Hill & Cobble Hill
December 13, 14 & 20 | 1-3pm
Santa will walk down Atlantic Avenue to take pictures and spread holiday cheer. Enjoy live performances from Triad Bass throughout the day, enjoy the festive window displays, and get a free reusable ‘Shop & Dine Atlantic Ave’ tote bag!
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sundays | 1-5pm
Starting this week, the Environmental Education Center will have Open Hours on Sundays from 1-5pm! Stop in to learn about the Park and local ecology, including a 10’ model of the Park, visit our tank critters include fish, turtles, and frogs, and enjoy rotating monthly themes with crafts and activities!
Holiday Pop Up Market | Coney Island
Sunday, December 14 | 1-5pm
Come by the Freak Bar to get all your holiday shopping done with local small shop vendors! Plus get a picture with Sideshow Santa and friends and/or get a tarot reading to see how your holiday gatherings will go!
Holiday Character Meet and Greet at Time Out Market | DUMBO
December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 | 1-5pm
Bring the family and snap photos with kids’ characters. Perfect for families, little ones, and anyone ready for holiday cheer! Characters appearing throughout December include the Gingerbread Man, Olaf/Frozen Snowman, Holiday Mickey Mouse, Bluey, the full Paw Patrol cast, Charlie Brown, a Minion, a Reindeer, a Giant Festive Snowman, Santa, a Mascot Handler Elf, an Elf (not a mascot costume), and the Grinch (with staggered appearances and a full-day upgrade available).
Red Hook Pinball Museum | Red Hook
Sundays | 1-10pm
With a new location at 362 Van Brunt Street, the Red Hook Pinball Museum is now open for free play (with donations accepted) every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1-10pm! It’s NYC’s only vintage pinball museum, with games from 1871-1971, and you can play on the first pinball machine ever made!
Winter Tree Tour | Governors Island
Sunday, December 14 | 1:45pm | Register here
Join Governors Island Nature for a tour of the Island’s 3,000+ trees. Learn about how we care for our canopy year-round, discover the most common trees on the Island, and gain some common tree ID tips.
Here & Now Holiday Concert: Bargemusic at The Boathouse at Pier 5 | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sundays | 2pm
Join for a free holiday concert with Celia Daggy, Scott Wheeler, and PianoFORTE ensemble.
Festival of Lights at Carmine Carro Community Center | Marine Park
Sunday, December 14 | 3:00-4:30pm
Join Rabbi Heidi Hoover to hear the story of a miracle and its eight-day celebration. Enjoy crafts, holiday festivities, and sing-alongs.
Rolie Polie Guacamole Holiday Concert | Park Slope
Sunday, December 14 | 3:30pm
Rolie Polie Guacamole will perform a holiday concert by Park Slope’s 30-foot tree at 4th Street Plaza!
Youth & Family Hanukkah Celebration at CBE | Park Slope
Sunday, December 14 | 3:30pm | RSVP here
The celebration includes favorites like the Great Hanukkah Sing-a-long with Debbie Brukman and Friends along with A Playground of Light, a sensory-sensitive experience of the holiday. Free, but you must register here!
Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah Lighting & Concert at Grand Army Plaza | Park Slope
Sunday, December 14–Sunday, December 21 | Kickoff Concert Event begins at 4pm
Join Chabad of Park Slope as they light Brooklyn’s largest menorah every night of Chanukah, starting with a kick-off concert by Pumpidisa on Sunday, December 14 at 4pm. Every night there will be live music, hot latkes and gifts for the children.
Chanukah Celebration at Myrtle Plaza | Clinton Hill
Sunday, December 14 | 5:30pm
Join for the lighting of Clinton Hill’s 10-foot Menorah for the first night of Chanukah! There will be latkes and doughnuts, music, dreidels and gelt, plus gifts and prizes for kids.
Coffey Park Holiday Celebration | Red Hook
Sunday, December 14 | 6-8pm
Join for Coffey Park’s Christmas Tree Lighting, Menorah Lighting, and Kinara Lighting ceremonies. There will be treats, hot chocolate, caroling, music, and more!
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Updated: December 10, 2025. Main Image: Bklyn Holiday-Topia at City Point.
