Weekly Highlights in NYC #11: September 23-29
Sleepovers at the museum are back, The Met PJ Party, a Central Park Zoo party and so much more...
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Sleepovers at the American Museum of Natural History are finally back! It’s an unforgettable after-hours experience: guided flashlight tours, scavenger hunts, group games, bedtime stories, plus evening snacks and breakfast. Set in iconic exhibit halls like the Hall of Ocean Life, guests (6 years and older + caretakers) sleep among exhibits. Monthly dates have just been released, so mark your calendars: Presale tickets for AMNH members go on sale Tuesday, September 30 at 10:30 a.m., and the general on-sale date is October 7.
Not for kids, but equally exciting is one of my favorite decorating events of the year: The 50th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House will be held from Tuesday, September 30 to Sunday, October 19, at 20 West 12th Street, in Greenwich Village. This historic 9,000-square-foot townhouse features 22 designer rooms. Tickets are available for sale now.
There are a lot of fun events coming up in the city throughout October that require a ticket purchase in advance! I’d highly recommend getting tickets each of the below if you can.
The 32nd Annual Explorers’ Party hosted by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) will take place on Wednesday, October 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Central Park Zoo. Designed for children ages 2–12, enjoy exclusive access to animal exhibits, educational crafts and activities, a Wildlife Theater performance, and a buffet dinner.
New York City Ballet Family Saturdays: "NYCB in Color" at Lincoln Center on Saturday, October 11 at 11 a.m. Hosted by Megan Fairchild, this one-hour interactive performance introduces children and families to ballet through vibrant, colorful dances.
New York Philharmonic Young People's Concert: Courtesies and Comedy on Saturday, October 18 at 2:00 p.m. This interactive performance explores the playful side of classical music. The concert includes a relaxed performance format for ages 6 and up.
It’s one of the most lively children’s parties of the year: the American Museum of Natural History Annual Family Party on Tuesday, October 21 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. This festive evening features hands-on educational activities, live animal encounters, and opportunities to meet scientists and educators. It's a unique chance for families to explore the Museum after hours.
The Met Pajama Party is on Thursday, October 23 from 5-7 p.m. It’s a Halloween-themed party for all ages and attendees are encouraged to wear their costumes or pajamas as they engage in interactive art activities, storytelling, and live entertainment in the Temple of Dendur.
Oktoberfest at The Standard Biergarten: Thursday, September 25 through Saturday, October 4. Celebrate fall with giant pretzels, sausages, lively Oompa music, family-friendly games, and a costume contest. Parents can sample German beers while kids enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Outdoor Movies at Oculus: Bring a blanket/chair and your favorite snacks. RSVPs are recommended. On Friday, September 26 at 7 p.m., Twilight will be shown and on Saturday, September 27 at 2 p.m., catch Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone
92Y Talks: There are some great talks happening at 92Y this fall. I'm particularly excited to check out Bobbi Brown, renowned makeup artist, as she discusses her memoir Still Bobbi with journalist Katie Couric.
While it’s still warm, hit The Met rooftop! Ensemble by Jennie C. Jones, is on view through October 19. This exhibition is the final Roof Garden Commission before the space closes for the construction and won’t reopen again until 2030!
I just finished reading Broken Country and can’t recommend it enough — it’s been ages since a story has gripped me like that. Speaking of books, my kids LOVE these little reading lights—they make bedtime reading after lights-out such a treat.
I love a Venetian slipper and this collab from Mestiza is so good (the sage green!). Also, I wore this clutch a ton this summer and got SO many compliments every time. It’s a perfect mix of fun and color.
If your kids are off school for Yom Kippur (Thursday, October 2) and you’re looking for an activity for them, this Guggenheim Day Camp looks like a fantastic option. For children ages 6–11, campers explore art, engage in hands-on workshops, in a dynamic museum setting.
Newsletter recommendation: I’m loving Lindsay’s Fashion Soup—it’s full of fabulous design and style tips you’ll actually use. I always come away inspired.
I’ve been trying to add more protein to our meals. My kids can’t get enough of this bean bake—but honestly, I end up devouring it. It’s super simple to make and I think tastes like pizza. And for me, I love this strawberry protein powder (it’s the best I’ve tasted.)